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The normal disclaimer: No, they are not mine, they definitely are not mine…even Paris

is not mine…not to mention Sony. All figures below are the fantastic creation of Monsieur Yoshihiro Togashi. Does that mean I do not have to take responsibility for their behaviors?!?! Goody…*^_^*

This story contains YAOI, though it does not yet appear in chapter 1. Eventually, lemon scenes will occur in the story, so please shun stories under this title if you feel uncomfortable with the subject. Of course, this is a Hiei-Kurama fanfic..Have fun reading!

Moondance

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Chapter 1

The day is just about as beautiful as anyone could have wished. A cornflower blue sky dotted with puffy soft clouds, this was a day to encourage smiles out of the most desolate person. There was one exception, however.

‘Ooo…….’ A cascade of flaming curls freed themselves from a confining black velvet ribbon, then plunged down toward the smooth surface of a wood desk with a plonk. It was a most ungraceful gesture, but made somehow adorable by the sheer beauty of those tresses. Another moan emerged from the flaming depth as Kurama messaged his temple with one hand while cushioning his head with another. ‘Why me?’ He asked silently to no one in peculiar, a mute supplication or complaint to whichever deity now doubling with laughter at his misery. Something must have warned me not to set up my own company, but I did not listen to it, Kurama thought, in deep depression. Outside his window, a row of sparrows chirped by, adequate replacement for the mocking crows of dark omens.

2 years ago, after working at his stepfather’s company for one year, Kurama decided to leave the 9 to 5 job, and set up his own studio. He did not spent too much effort on choosing what would he do, since there was only one obvious choice: something to do with his beloved plants. After that, garden designing seemed to be the only possibility. Kurama knew that he was talented, but he underestimated his popularity, even though he never did anything to attract media attention. Within 3 months, Minamino Shuuichi became the equivalent of tasteful floral gardens, and no luxury apartment or deluxe mansion could be sold without a garden of his design. One might say that Japanese real estate market had sunk into a severe case of ‘Minamino Effect’. The small one-person studio quickly expanded into a company of 25 people, with more than 100 workers. When one considered the ex-orbital price for one Minamino design, it became obvious that the company was doing marvelously well. Not so well for its founder, though, Kurama sighed with resignation. I don’t know how did I find time to keep that Rekai job as well…but I couldn’t leave them, especially not Hiei…A tired smile appeared on Kurama’s lips. Thinking about that elusive youkai always made Kurama felt both excitement and frustration. How could he be so ignorant of my feelings?!?! Not for the first time, Kurama asked this unanswerable question. I just want….

the door. Reluctantly, Kurama forced his heavy head to leave its comfortable rest.

"Please come in, Minu-san." No matter how tired he was, Kurama’s politeness remained constant. The door opened, then quietly closed behind the petite young woman who was Kurama’s most important helper in the company.

"Minamino-san, here is a proposal from Sony, requesting a design plan of a roof garden for their new headquarter in Tokyo." Minu deftly laid the file open on Kurama’s desk, and was about to summarize its content when she noticed the drooping eyelids of Kurama. "Minamino-san? Are you all right?"

With a start, Kurama opened his brilliant green eyes wide, realizing that he almost fell asleep. The sheer beauty of her boss, on the other hand, once again impressed Minu, even though she saw him almost everyday. His must be what people have in mind when saying ‘face to die for’, she murmured dreamily in her heart. "Excuse me, what were you saying? Minu-san?" Apologetic and serious, Kurama tried his best to organize his mushy head into a semi state of clarity.

"I was telling you about the proposal plan of Sony, boss. Please don’t mind me saying this, boss, but I think you need a vacation." Minu’s words struct Kurama right in the heart. Yes, a vacation…when was the last one? Couldn’t remember… Nowadays, if he wasn’t working, then he was fighting, otherwise, he was sleeping. Come to think of it, when was the last time I saw others besides Rekai business? Gosh! Must have been months!! Yes, that’s what I want, a real vacation! Thoughts like this ran wild in Kurama’s mind, adding a little luster to his fatigued emerald eyes.

Minu could see that her boss was moved by her proposal, but she understood the need for more persuasion. If her boss would put pleasure before responsibility, then his name would not be Minamino. "You can take 10 days off, no problem, boss. There is nothing pressing at hand, besides, you can bring your laptop and we can communicate through Internet." The light in Kurama’s eyes shone brighter. Minu added for a good measure. " I’ve heard that Paris is lovely in spring…"

At the sound of Paris, Kurama couldn’t help but smiled. The city of romance… maybe a share of romance will be mine…"All right, Minu-san. I will take a vacation of 10 days. But give me a moment before booking hotels and planes, okay? I want to ask a few friends to come with me."

"Of course, boss. Call me when you are ready." Minu smiled happily then bowed her way out. At last, her dear boss will get some rest!!

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"Are you sure this is going to work?" Yusuke looked dubiously at Kurama’s grinning face. All the others in Kurama’s spacious attic apartment reflect the same doubt on their faces. Unquestionably, it was Kurama who knew Hiei best, still…

"Trust me, Yusuke-kun." Kurama answered with a smile and a mischievous wink. "I know what to do."

"I hope you do." Sighed Yusuke. If this did not work out the way they planned it…he suppressed a shiver. But then, that is Kurama’s problem. Not his.

"Hey, sis, sure that you are not coming with us?" Kuwabara asked in a loud voice.

"No, I’m not going. I have a date." Shizuru’s words created instant excitement in the room.

"What! A date?!" Yusuke couldn’t believe his hearing.

Yukina said with an innocent smile, " Just like us, right, Kazuma-kun?" Blushed red to his hair roots, Kuwabara stammered out "Ha…ha…ha..hai!!!" Even after their engagement, Kuwabara still could not get over his crush over the pretty ice girl. Which was not a bad thing, anyway.

"So that’s decided then. Six of us are going to Paris for a ten days travel. The flight is scheduled to leave tomorrow afternoon at 14:00. See you guys on the plane!" The crowd dispersed through the front door, chattering excitedly about the trip to come.

After clearing up the dishes and glasses and whatsoever damage caused by his best friends’ visit, Kurama went up to his roof garden. This was his finest creation, full of roses in half and full bloom. Red as flashy as the heart of a pigeon blood ruby, white as tender as soft rabbit’s down, champagne as delicate as bubbles of its namesake, there were more colors than that could be named. Satin black, azure blue, royal purple, pale lavender, even grass green could be found among the numerous colors of Kurama’s incomparable roses. Ever a plotter, Kurama did not cultivate those impossible colored roses for nothing, but then, who could know his secrets unless the mysterious Youko chose to tell?

A swish of black momentarily blocked the shine of clear moonlight. In the heart of his rose garden, Kurama smiled with great warmth. "Welcome, Hiei." A soft evening breeze stirred up his sunset color hair, twirling and swirling in a joyful dance that reflected its owner’s heart. Hiei said nothing, dressed in his usual black tunic, black trousers, black coat, and a startling white scarf. His katana shone faintly, a silvery glint that could sever the pale moon beams. In the silence of night, they studied each other, Kurama with an intensity, Hiei with an apparent nonchalance. Finally, Kurama spoke.

"There is something very important to me, hidden within a well guarded keep. I need it badly, but in my human shape, it is impossible for me to get it alone. Would you please help me?" With bated breath, Kurama waited Hiei’s reply anxiously.

"Let me show you on the map…there, you see? The cross is where I shall meet you at 13:55 tomorrow afternoon. Is that all right?"

"Ahh…well…you see, that’s the time when their patrol is weakest." It was a lame excuse, but the best Kurama could come up with at the moment. "And Hiei, do be careful. Though those who guard the treasure are only ningens, they have some very powerful weapons that even youkais need to be aware of. The point is to go in secretly in, then secretly out again. So, please, don’t let anyone see you, and don’t kill anyone, okay?" The last part was really important. Kurama did not want a massacre to spoil the trip. Besides, it might be a bit difficult for the plane to take-off from an airport littered with bits and pieces of human anatomy.

Kurama sweated. He could almost see the headlines: Minamino Shuuichi accused of multiple murder at the XX airport…He shook his head to clear that image. "No, Hiei, no killings please. For me?" Kurama implored with his beautiful eyes, showing a silent yet urgent plea.

Hiei twitched a bit uncomfortably, and Kurama could have sworn he saw a glimpse of blush before it was smoothed down by the old indifference. Hiei responded with a curt nod, then disappeared in the depth of the night.

Chapter 2

What am I doing here? Hiei asked himself for about the twentieth time. To help Kurama, of course. His logic center replied. Again. But why do I have to hide in a corner like a bat? I could have killed any idiot ningen that blocks me in a second! For reasons of health, the author will not dwell on the similarity between a fuming Hiei and a fuming bat. Kurama said no killing. The cold voice of reason warned. One should only do so much for a friend. Even for a best friend. Hiei is beginning to sulk now. It is very hard to win an argument with yourself when you know the ‘other’ voice is right. He advanced another 10 m, pressing close to the dark corners of the ceiling to stay out from the view of the surveillance cameras. Kurama told him about those devious devices when Hiei was attempting shop-lifting once. That was before he had caught the concept of money. I would never have been caught anyway, was Hiei’s first response, but years of experience had taught him better safe than sorry. Lighter than a feather, he inched closer, until he could peer down the yawning mouth of the tunnel that would lead him to the rendezvous point with Kurama. Just then, Hiei’s rebellious logic circuit delivered a killing blow. Are you sure he is just a ‘best friend’? The dirty-minded circuit even provided graphic details about how Kurama’s glorious green eyes looked at him in the moonlit night, and how hard Hiei tried to suppress a natural male reaction. And there is that dream you had last night, in which you tackled Kurama behind then straddled him then pulled out his…SHUT UP!! Hiei’s katana itched to slice that corrupted (and honest) alter ego voice into thin ham slices, but the old saying is right about if wishes were fishes, we could have walked on water. For the sake of peace, Hiei concentrated totally on the task at hand. In the instant that the tunnel opening was clear and its guardians’ inattention, Hiei moved in, quicker than a flicker of shadow, straight toward the spot indicated on the map. Kurama was already there. Hiei could feel his ki not far ahead, and the recognition gave him a double heart throb that had nothing to do with danger. At precisely 13:55, Hiei met again the redhead he dreamt about last night.

"Always punctual, Hiei." Kurama smiled. He had never known Hiei to be late, even without a watch, once he had explained ningen’s 24 hour-system to Hiei. Must have something to do with his sixth sense, Kurama thought, gazing at his beloved with contentment and joy.

Kurama’s smile was like the sudden burst of the winter sun on a frosty morning, and it filled Hiei being with a strange satisfaction. He shook of the feeling, albeit with difficulty. "Don’t waste time chatting, lazy fox. Let’s go." Hiei said gruffly because he did not know what to do with the secret pleasure he felt.

Instead of diminishing because of the unfriendly tone, Kurama’s smile brightened. He saw through Hiei’s poor attempt at indifference and knew instinctively that Hiei was profoundly affected by his presence. Poor Hiei. Kurama could almost pity him, because he had 600 years of experience behind him. However, there still were times when the small youkai was an enigma to Kurama. Therefore, Kurama was always in his special state of battle alert whenever he was around Hiei, for in a real sense, this was the most important battle in his life. The stake at hand was not a trinket or bauble, but the happiness for the rest of his life, and the consequence of defeat was a horror beyond imagination. I will win your heart yet, Hiei. Kurama vowed silently.

"Excuse me, gentlemen, but would you please retire to your seats now? We are about to take off." A beautiful feminine voice spoke near the two youkais, and Kurama was almost too late in grabbing Hiei’s right arm to stop him from drawing his katana. "May I see your boarding passes, please?" The flying stewardess inquired politely with a lovely smile, blissfully unaware of her close brush with death.

"There you are. Thank you." To Hiei’s surprise, Kurama drew out two white pieces of paper from his pocket, and showed them to the stewardess. His sixth sense told him that one of them was made from Kurama’s ki, but of course the ningen woman was too stupid to know that. The woman took a look at the papers, then said something about first-class seats. Hiei was quite baffled about the whole business, and he began to have some suspicions. Still, he held his tongue, and followed Kurama deep inside the dark cabin. He was not prepared for the cries of welcome, though.

"Hiei!" "You are late, spikey-head!" "So you finally got here, huh?" "Hiei-kun!" Though Keiko and Yusuke’s presence startled him, and Kuwabara’s greeting made his teeth gnash, it was the last greeting that surprised him most of all.

"Yukina! What are you doing here?" Maybe his surprise made him sound unintentionally harsh, because a look of hurt flashed across Yukina’s luminous face when she heard his tone. Hiei regretted almost immediately. Luckily, Kurama came to his rescue, as usual.

"Yukina-kun is coming with us to the trip. Oops!" Kurama covered his mouth and tossed Hiei an impish smile when he realized that he let slip something important.

Hiei was not for one moment blinded by his smile though his heart did skip a beat. "Trip? What trip?" He demanded ominously.

Just at that moment, a voice sounded over the public address system. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome aboard the flight AF 37. We are about to take-off in five minutes. Please make sure that your seat belts are fastened and no smoking is allowed on the entire flight. We wish you a pleasant journey."

"Well, time to buckle up, guys. Hiei, your seat is right next to me." Kurama skillfully side-stepped Hiei’s question, then pressed him down on the window seat beside himself.

"You tell me what’s going on right now, or you’ll be very sorry, Kurama." Hiei rarely used Kurama’s name, unless he was really upset about something. "And what did that woman say just now…flight?!?!" Eyes wide, Hiei’s expression turned from angry to shock when the meaning of ‘flight’ suddenly hit him. He was about to panic when he felt Kurama’s hand over his mouth, and that lovely soft voice and its warm breath tickled his ears.

"Shuu, Hiei. Else I’ll tell Yukina-kun who her brother is." This was Kurama’s most powerful weapon at the moment, and he used it with effectiveness. Hearing the name of Yukina, Hiei quieted down considerably, though a hint of alarm was still in those crimson eyes. Kurama’s heart wrenched for a second, seeing the ghost of memory in his beloved’s eyes, but he steeled his heart. After all, it was for Hiei’s own good as well. However, it was obvious that some dramatic steps had to be taken, or else Hiei would make an outcry. Careful to keep one hand firmly over Hiei’s mouth, Kurama took a quick drink from a glass in front of him. Then, glancing around swiftly to make sure everyone else was in their seats, meaning in front of him and Hiei, Kurama lifted his hand and pressed his lips against Hiei’s instead. The shock of contact nearly drove him unconscious, but he took a hold on himself, then passed the liquid into Hiei’s mouth when he was about to protest. For one short moment, their tongues met, and Kurama could have sworn he was in heaven. The kiss ended too soon, for Hiei’s eyes closed almost immediately, so powerful was the sleep drug he fed him. Sighing with unsatisfied desire, Kurama reached over to buckle up Hiei’s safety belt, painfully aware of the closeness of their bodies. Tightening up his own belt, Kurama could only wait for the plane to take-off and to pray that his beloved would not kill him when he woke up from the sleep.

Chapter 3

It was dark when Hiei woke up from his drug-induced stupor. However, he felt amazingly good, as if he just had a refreshing sleep. As usual, he held himself very still to observe the unfamiliar surrounding. He was lying down on a strange bed in a cabin. It was not very large, but contained only eight seats. Four in front, from where sounded faint snoring, and four at the back, two of which were empty. A strange humming sound was around them, and the floor vibrated in a soothing fashion. Only at this moment, did Hiei recalled where he was. Flying. He stifled a sharp curse, then sat up to look out of the window. He froze. A plateau of stars crowded the small plastic window, and beyond that, darkness. Hiei watched, as if entranced with the notion that there was nothing between him and that unending night except for a thin layer of steel, and the night was so deep, seemed that he was falling down, down, down....

"Hiei! Hiei! Come back to me!" Kurama shook the thin shoulders, trying to get the youkai’s attention. He fell asleep like everyone else when the sun set in the western skies, and was awakened by the turmoil of ki so near him.

"Kurama?" A faint inquiry emerged from the bottom of memories, and Kurama breathed a sigh of relief.

"Yes, it’s me. How are you feeling?" Anxiously, he checked Hiei for any undesirable side-effects. The drug was relatively a safe one, but one could not be too careful.

"I’m fine." Hiei sounded more alike his normal-distant-self. Unfortunately for Kurama, with Hiei’s return to normal, he also remembered some fairly unpleasant questions. A silvery flash and the katana was pointing at Kurama’s throat. "Speak, you thrice-be-damned youko, why did you lie to me?"

It was Kurama’s turn to hold himself very still. He knew Hiei was hair-triggered, and much as he loved him, Kurama had no intention to die for his loved so soon. Well, not before he had proposed to his Juliet, anyway, he thought wryly. "Would you please lower your katana? It will be very hard to explain its existence to those stewardesses."

"Not before you answer my question first."

Kurama sighed. "Have it your way then. I lied to you because I really would like you to come with me and..." He took a deep breath. "I know about your fear for flying."

Hiei’s eyes widened. "How did you know that?" Damn, this sly fox knew more about him than he thought.

"Well, you remember when Yusuke died the second time, we rushed into Makai through that dimension warp?"

Hiei nodded. After all, it was not the kind of thing that one forgot easily.

"Remember that free fall we had before landing down in the forest? I was near you, and I could feel your ki, all messed up and tangled, though your face showed nothing." Kurama also remembered that it took everything he had not to hold Hiei in his arms to comfort him. He was not going to tell him that, though. Not yet, anyway.

"How did you know it was not anger?" Though Hiei’s tone was as impassive as ever, Kurama could detect a glimmer of tremor in his eyes.

"I just knew." He answered lamely. He couldn’t say it was a lover's instinct, could he? Out of curiosity, he asked Hiei. "Why were you so afraid?"

Hiei was silent for so long that Kurama thought he was not going to answer him. Then, in a very low voice, Hiei replied. "I was born with awareness. When they threw me down from the Ice Maiden’s land, I knew I was falling, and they wanted me dead. My mother’s people, my only relatives in the world, wanted me dead. The night was pitch dark, and the floating island was so very high, and I kept on falling, falling, wishing to be dead while praying for survival to revenge. It seemed that the darkness had no end, and I would just keep falling..." Hiei’s voice took on a hypnotizing quality, and Kurama was caught up in the image. He could see in his mind’s eye a small bundle of clothes falling down from somewhere high, helpless to stop its own doom, filled with hate and despair, with an abiding sorrow that he was unloved...

Without thinking, Kurama reached out and caught Hiei’s hand in a strong grip. Hiei looked at him in surprise. Staring straight into those eyes that captured his soul forever, Kurama slowly promised, "I won’t let you fall." Hiei seemed to understand the double meaning of Kurama’s words, and tightened his hand a slight, almost imperceivable millimeter. They sat like that for a long time in silence without looking at each other, but sharing something that could not be named in any language.

Finally, Hiei asked, in a strangely peaceful voice. "Where are we going, fox?"

Equally quiet, Kurama answered. "Paris."

Hiei seemed bemused by this piece of information. A long moment passed, just as Kurama was at the edge of sleep, still holding that small callused hand in his own, Hiei’s words drifted to him. "The city of romance."

What?! Kurama turned sharply to stare at the youkai, speechless, but Hiei already lied down, eyes closed, the image of deep sleep to all the world. With a deep mental sigh, Kurama also lied down, careful to hold Hiei’s hand as undisturbingly as possible. It will be a long night, he decided.

Unseen by him, Hiei’s lips turned up in a slight smile. I did not forget the kiss, foxy.

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A shaft of sunlight shone on Kurama’s face, woke he most rudely from a lovely sleep. Ruefully, he opened his gritty eyes, fully aware of his starving stomach. Suddenly, he sat up with alarm. Hiei was nowhere to be seen. The others were just awakening as he did, so it was futile to ask them for direction. Righting his seat, Kurama resigned himself to waiting. After all, an airplane was only so big.

"Kurama! Did Hiei kill you last night?" Kuwabara asked, turning around. Kurama chose to answer with a question of his own.

"Kuwabara-kun, did you wake up Yukina-chan with your snoring?" The remark sufficiently stop all further questions and comments from the furiously blushing Kuwabara. A word of defense must be said for Kurama here for being less than polite. First, he went to sleep holding just Hiei’s hand. Second, he woke up holding air. Few people could be in good humor after such catastrophes.

"Yukina-chan…did I…did…snore last night?" Please say no, oh Gods, let her say no! Kuwabara prayed with all the piety he could muster. The gods were kind to him that day.

"No, you didn’t, Kazuma-kun. I slept very well." Yukina’s radiant smile put to rest

all his fears of disturbing his fiancee.

"Good morning, Kurama. Where is Hiei?" Keiko asked cautiously. She was also curious about what happened between those two, or what did not happen between them, but she was far more subtle than Kuwabara. A tapping on her shoulder drew her attention, and it did not take long for her to find out her fiance went back to sleep. On her shoulder. "Wake up, you lazy bum!!! Wake up!!"

Amid such open displays of camaraderie, a disturbance nagged Kurama continuously. Something was not quite right…then he figured it out.

"Everyone, don’t you think it’s too quiet out there?" It’s true. Except for their bantering and chatting, it was dead silent. No sounds of stewardess, no sounds of passengers, just silence. Something was definitely wrong. With gestures, Kurama signaled that he would go and take a look. Without waiting for other’s protest, he stood up noiselessly, and lifted a single rose out from his hair. Not a whip, not yet, for Kurama did not want to frighten any innocent ningen in case nothing was wrong. A jerk of his hand opened the partition curtain, and the sight that greeted his eyes made him stops in his tracks.

Hiei was sitting on the back of a seat with one knee tucked up. With a piece of black silk, he polished his katana slowly and carefully, allowing no drop of blood to stain the perfect blade. Beneath him, five men huddled in the middle of the aisle, pale-faced and trembling. On the other aisle huddled a group of stewards and stewardesses, looking only slightly better than the group of men. The passengers sat rigidly in their seats like statues, lips pressed tightly to prevent the escape of a single sound. Through the drawn curtains, Kurama could see the other passengers were in the same condition till the end of the plane. Bemused, Kurama studied the miserable humans beneath Hiei’s feet. All of them bore wounds, some deeper, some shallower, but none appear life threatening. Their face wore expressions of incredulity and terror, as if confronted with their worst nightmare. The dressings ranged from chic to plain, but were all tattered. One of the silk shirts missed a sleeve, and Hiei’s wiping cloth was suspiciously like the missing piece.

"What’s going on here, Hiei?" Kurama asked curiously, walking towards Hiei at the same time. He could feel uncountable stares on him, ranging from awe to worry; awe because he dared to address the death incarnation, worry because he might be hurt.

He shook off those looks as he shook off the hungry stares of his female schoolmates; his only concern was his precious.

"Awake?" Hiei’s question was more like a remark. He paused in his polishing, and flitted down from his perch. "They were making some noises out here. I told them to shut up." As usual, Hiei’s answer left much to be desired.

Kurama caught the unsaid words. I did not want them to wake you up. He hoped the 'you' was singular rather than plural. "Who are they?" He pointed at the massed bodies.

"I don’t know. They were the noisiest though. And they ‘tried’ to attack me." An evil grin appeared on Hiei’s face when he emphasized the word ‘tried’. The men cringed some more, though it was hardly possible.

"He’s not human!!" One fellow blubbered. "He took away the bomb and our guns before we had a chance to…" A kick in his face quieted him

"No one asked you." Hiei said coldly.

After some patient questioning mixed with ‘helpful’ comments from the prisoners, Kurama pieced together the whole picture. Apparently, this bunch of incompetents tried to hijack the plane at dawn, and the noise they made woke Hiei. They attacked him, of course, but they stood no chance against the S-level youkai, even using his katana only. However, Hiei was not interested in doing good. He just wanted them to be quiet. So he threatened ‘everyone’, including the pilot, to sit still and shut up. With those criminals as object lessons, no one dared to suggest otherwise.

‘You didn’t kill anyone, did you?" Kurama’s anxious inquiry invoked a simultaneous intake of breath from hijackers and passengers alike.

Hiei shook his head. "You told me not to."

"That’s all right then. Thank you very much for your effort, Hiei."

"Hn." Was the only response Kurama got. Hiei was pleased though, the youko could tell by the way he swaggered a little back to his seat. Making sure Hiei returned to his seat and out of sight, Kurama faced the would-be-hijackers with a less-than-pleasant smile.

"Now, what am I going to do with you?"

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Chapter 4

The rest of the flight passed uneventfully. Despite Kurama’s threatening smile, he did not do anything serious toward the hijackers, being a man of gentle nature. What he did was implanting a subconscious suggestion in their minds. From that day onwards, whenever they had the urge to walk the narrow path, they would all have a *very* bad dream, concerning one particular black figure and his bloodthirsty katana. Hiei approved of it. As for the crew and the passenger, Kurama erased that part of their memory to avoid certain inconvenient queries, like whom exactly was that little black guy. Without further ado, they arrived at Paris, Charles-de-Gaules Airport in one sunny afternoon.

Going through the custom was easier this time, for Hiei did not need to be lied to once more. He just passed the custom with that superhuman speed of his, and soon they gathered outside the airport. Kurama led them toward the taxi stop. "We have to go three by three. I’ll be in the first car with Hiei and Yukina, and Kuwabara will follow us in the second car with Yusuke and Keiko, okay?"

"Of course it’s not okay!" Kuwabara shrieked his protest. "Why can’t I sit in the same car with Yukina-chan?!"

"She’s safer with me anyway." Hiei murmured darkly.

"Say that again!! I, Kuwabara, cannot protect Yukina-chan from harm?!?! I’ll make you eat those words, you skinny bat!" Holding up his fists, Kuwabara made ready to pluck out the thorn on his back. Kurama quickly intervened.

"Kuwabara-kun, he is only kidding. I placed you in the second car because you are the best English speaker among the rest of us, and no one speaks French. The second car need your sacrifice." Kurama’s declaration was met by disbelief, mostly from Yusuke.

"Don’t kid me, Kurama. Kuwabara is the best English speaker among us, except for you? Impossible! He skipped as many English classes as I did!!"

"But nothing is impossible for the great Kuwabara!!" Hearing his proclaim, everyone fell silent, musing on how could Kuwabara’s statement be logically justified from Yusuke’s.

Using the moment of silence, Kurama bundled everyone into the taxi, and rattled off a string of instructions to the two drivers in perfect French. Before anyone could ask him when he learnt French, he skipped into the taxi, mentioning the driver to drive away. He was convinced that if he did not move fast, they could all spend the night on the curb.

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The sitting arrangement could not suit Kurama better. Somehow, Hiei was squeezed between him and Yukina. Most taxi back seats were just wide enough for three, and this taxi was no exception, so Hiei ended up being ‘very’ close to Kurama, to the extent that. Kurama could clearly feel the body heat of the small Koorime. If he moved his hand discreetly enough, he could touch Hiei’s knees in the most innocent way imaginable.

Hiei squirmed in discomfort, every inch of his skin super conscious of Kurama’s proximity. The sensation invoked some fairly strong reaction, and it was heightened double fold when Kurama’s hand ‘accidentally’ landed on both his own and Hiei’s knees.

Knowing the wily fox as he did, Hiei did not for one second believe that this was as innocuous as Kurama would have him believe, but he could not brush off Kurama’s hand without raising Yukina’s attention. That sly fox caught him there, Hiei gritted his teeth. So he behaved completely normal outward, while his insides turmoil in frustration. The taxi plodded onwards, giving Hiei plenty of time to appreciate how Kurama’s hand almost caressed him every time the car hit a bump. Yukina dropped asleep due to time lag, her head fell against Hiei’s shoulder, and in order not to wake her up, Hiei’s position was cemented. Under such persuasive atmosphere, Hiei was forced to face his dilemma about Kurama, especially when his manhood began to take a definite interest on what was going on.

Kurama, Hiei admitted to himself, is a perfect bedroom fantasy for both male and female. Innumerable living creatures would happily divide the Red Sea again to get close to that red-hair-green-eyes-gorgeous. Even the stoic Koorime had to profess certain breathlessness whenever Kurama threw him that special smile. No one had ever excited Hiei like Kurama did. Nor disturbed him as he did. What bothered Hiei was not that Kurama wanted him badly enough to seduce him, but what else Kurama would demand from him. Hiei knew he had his share of attractiveness and experience. Some people just loved a taste of danger, and Hiei had a truckload. Besides, youkos were notorious for their love of challenge. Hiei was quite certain that he could keep that over-clever fox intrigued for some time to come. But those large jade eyes could not hide secrets, Hiei frowned, and they speak of something more than a discreet tryst. Their silent pleadings bewildered Hiei, asking a response he did not know how to give. Kurama had become half a ningen, and in the process learned the word ‘love’. Hiei did not know what love is, and warily treated it as some dangerous foe to be conquered, even if it could not be understood. A survivor’s instinct told him anything that could not be comprehended must be dangerous, and was to be avoided at all costs. Love must be an emotion very dangerous, Hiei concluded, reflecting on how Kurama would willingly die to save his mother, a person he claimed to ‘love’.

So what should I do? Just tell him that I am physically attracted to him but expect the relationship to go no further than that? He might not be too pleased about that. Somehow, Hiei was reluctant to hurt Kurama. Just imagining the youko’s accusing eyes caused him a nameless panic. But Kurama knows what he wants. He assured himself. One way or another, this whole matter will be solved. Either he will agree to a pleasure trip, or he will give up. One needed not to read his mind to know which solution Hiei preferred at the moment. Besides, Kurama had always being there where I needed him, a truer friend I never had. I own him a response, at least. The final thoughts made Hiei’s decision. Recalling that little kiss they shared, Hiei concealed a delicious shiver. Yes, he definitely want the matter to be solved. In a certain manner, if he could influence the outcome. But I should make him sweat a little, shouldn’t I? Hiei asked himself. For all the teasing if nothing else. An evil grin spread on Hiei’s face.

"Achuu!" Kurama sneezed.

*********************************************************************

"Oh look!! There it is!! The Arch of Triumph!!" (Moondance: I don’t know the proper English name, so I used a direct translation, sorry.)

"Champs-Elysess!!"

"Eiffel Tower!!"

"Alexander bridge!!"

For the nth time, the driver of Kuwabara’s taxi wished that he had a pair of ear plugs. The temptation to stop the car and look for a pharmacy became stronger. He had hoped that the orange-hair guy would calm down once he saw more of the famous monuments, but no, he just got louder. A particular shrill made him wince in earnest, and from the mirror he saw the Japanese’s companions did the same.

"All right, that’s it!!" Yusuke burst out, ignoring Keiko’s frantic clutching at his arm. He reached over to cover Kuwabara’s mouth and incidentally, his nose also. Naturally, Kuwabara began to thrush about wildly. Keiko pressed herself against the window to escape from the flailing arms, and pretended very hard not to know the pair beside her.

The poor taxi driver sighed in resignation. Briefly, he wondered how the other car was doing.

********************************************************************

"On your right, Yukina-chan, is the Invalides, where Napoleon is buried." Kurama pointed toward the golden dome.

"I know him! He is the general that was defeated at Waterloo, isn’t that right?" Yukina cried happily.

"Absolutely right. Yet even though he was defeated, he was still considered as one of the greatest military genius in the world." Kurama continued to explain why Napoleon lost that particular battle, often drawing on Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables. ( Yes, there is a chapter about the Battle of Waterloo)

Ever since they entered Paris city, Kurama had being acting as an impromptu guide, with Yukina listening attentively and Hiei sat in noncommittal silence. He was not as relaxed as he pretended to be, though. One might even say Kurama was downright nervous. Halfway from the airport to the city, his beloved suddenly relaxed the stiff posture he had being holding since the beginning of this trip, as if made up his mind about something. Not only that, he started to recline against the seat, which brought him closer to Kurama until they were pressed together from shoulders to thighs. The strange thing was that Hiei did not pull away. It was as if Hiei ‘wanted’ to snuggle against Kurama. Most bizarre. But Kurama was not going to look a gift horse in the mouth. Moreover, Hiei would often stare at Kurama, and if their gaze contacted, Hiei did not turn away immediately, but would hold Kurama’s gaze for a couple of heartbeats before letting him go deliberately with a slight twinkle in his burgundy eyes. Kurama never believed that his heart could endure such massive doses of stimulation without bursting from the mere thrill. His head had long since went swimming at some beach with stars for sand, gauze for waves, so he was looking out from a misty, sparkling haze. The world seemed brighter and fresher, while he felt both weaker and stronger.

"Why, Kurama-kun, your face is flushing! Are you all right?" Laying a cool hand on Kurama’s forehead, Yukina asked in concern. Kurama could feel Hiei’s amused gaze on him, and this made him flushed more.

"No, no, I’m all right, just that it’s too hot in here." Kurama explained weakly, studiously ignoring a blinking panel which said 8 C. Late April in Paris was never famous for its warm weather.

"I think you are sick, Kurama-kun. Look, your hands are shaking!" It was true. Kurama’s hands were shaking. His mouth was terribly dry too, but not because of some remote cold germs. The cause of his malady was much closer. "You need a doctor. What do you think, Hiei-kun?" For some reason, Yukina chose to ask Hiei’s opinion. The god of luck sure was having a field day with Kurama.

"Nothing a good tumble won’t cure." Hiei’s tone made Kurama bite back ‘Where?’ with difficulty. No, he must be imagining things. Hiei could not possibly mean what he thought he meant, despite that suggestive tone.

"We came here for a vacation, not to fight, Hiei-kun."

"There are many kinds of fighting, Yukina." Though the reply was directed toward Yukina, Hiei looked Kurama in the eye when he said that. This time, Kurama felt sure, Hiei was giving him a come-hither. Suddenly, Kurama felt lost between answering Hiei’s challenge immediately and slink away till he was ready. Everything was happening too fast!

"Here is your hotel, monsieur. 200 FF, please."

Kurama paid in relief. He had won a reprisal, but deep in his heart he realized that the fun had just begun.

*********************************************************************

Chapter 5

"Bonjour, Monsieur Minamino Shuuichi. You have booked three double rooms, is that right?" The hotel manager queried Kurama courteously. Kurama nodded.

"Yes. Are the rooms ready?" Kurama offhandedly asked. He fully expected the answer to be yes. However....

"Well...there is a small problem. I only have one room with two beds left. We are unexpectedly full this spring. I'm really sorry, monsieur." The manger apologized sincerely.

"What's the matter, Kazuma-kun?" Yukina asked Kuwabara quietly, seeing Kurama's frown.

Kuwabara stammered. "They only have one room with two beds left. So... maybe... we'll have to....hem....." Scratching his head in embarrassment, Kuwabara let the implication sank. Yukina blushed, a charming bloom on herfair skin.

"No." Hiei broke in unexpectedly. "You will stay in that room. Kurama and I will take the big bed." Everyone jumped.

"What have you got against me, you sorry excuse for a shrimp?!?!"

"Do you mean it, Hiei?"

"You want to sleep with Kurama?? I didn’t know that you two are....."

"Yusuke!!!"

"No. We are not." Hiei's curt and cold tone silenced everyone. Kurama felt like he had been shot. I knew I was imagining things, he thought bitterly. For appearance's sake, he tried a smile, but such a simple action turned into a struggle with Earth’s gravity.

"Ahem." Politely, the manager tried a discreet cough which caught Kurama's attention immediately. The poor man had been standing there for long enough.

"It's all right. We’ll manage." The half-hearted response did little to assure the manager.

"Then here are your keys. The porters will follow you with your luggage." Without a word, Kurama took the keys and led everyone to the elevator. Behind him, the manager could be heard to speak frantically into a phone.

"Get three fruit baskets into ...."

*********************************************************************

Kurama collapsed on the bed with a sigh. It was a long trip, and his civilized manner had almost worn through. The big fight in the corridors just now was the last straw. Hiei insisted on staying next door to Kuwabara, who was already mad at him for taking the twin bed room. The porter tried very hard to make himself invisible while the others looked on with impassivity. Finally, Yusuke pulled them apart. Kurama was too tired to do so. Still, Hiei got what he wanted, probably because Yusuke was afraid that his room might be consumed in a bellow of dark flames should Hiei decide to kill Kuwabara in the middle of the night.

"Where does this door go, Kurama?" The energetic Koorime asked after exploring the rest of the room. It was probably the first time that Hiei entered a hotel.

Kurama cracked open an eyelid. "That leads to Kuwabara’s room." He replied without thinking. Hiei took in the information without comment. A while later, Kurama heard the closets being opened, and something was dragged out. He pried open his reluctant eyes. Hiei was making a bed close to the door. "What are you doing, Hiei!?!"

Still making his bed, Hiei answered coolly. "If that puffy ox dared to touch Yukina, I can kill him quicker this way."

Amusement and disappointment warred within Kurama. "So you are going to sleep there?"

Hiei threw him an enigmatic look. "No. Only at night." With that, he practically jumped on the big bed, and curled up on his side of the bed. Kurama’s head went swimming again. "Now, what are we going to do, fox?" Hiei asked lazily, peering at Kurama through half-closed eyelids. Kurama thought Hiei look incredibly sexy. He quickly laid on his stomach, wondering if this would be a good time to seduce him. Pretending to consider Hiei’s question, he took an iron grip control on himself, especially that too-much-youko-like part of his. When he was sure that he was more or less normal, he turned onto his side, and siddled closer to Hiei.

"I don’t know. What do "You"want to do?" Kurama asked in his no.1 seductive voice. No one could resist him when he purred that way, and it semed that Hiei was no exception. He blinked a couple of times, then leaned forward……

*Knock, knock* Hey guys, let’s go!!!" Yusuke banged loudly on the door. Kurama groaned. *Not this old plot, Moondance-san!!* *Sorry, Kurama, but I think this is better than letting Godzilla crush into your room, right?* Beaten by this piece of logic, Kurama called out to Yusuke. "Coming, coming."

"But I hadn't done anything yet." Hiei's comment as he went to open the door stunned Kurama so much that it was a long while before he cried out to the empty doorway.

"Hiei! Wait!""

*********************************************************************

The next few days passed in a haze for Kurama. Though he valued his friends dearly, there were times that he really wanted to blast them out to the seventh heaven if possible. Yusuke and Kuwabara insisted on dragging everyone out at morning’s first light, and refused to come home well past midnight. When Kurama and Hiei finally got back to their room, they usually did not even have the strength to talk. Hiei would make

straight to his listening post, while Kurama would debate with himself whether or not he should take a bath and often fell asleep in his clothes. Surprisingly, Hiei did not complain. Kurama never realized that Hiei had a fine appreciation of art, even though his taste ran more to the bloody side. A flashback from his thieving days, no doubt. Also, Hiei enjoyed the more macabre scenery spots, like the Catacombes, immensely. Therefore, the three reached an unspoken compromise. Hiei would get the rest of them to

go to museums and cemeteries in the morning, and would make no objection when the pair insisted on going to the dinner shows and discotheques. There was no stopping them. Yukina seemed to take delight in any of Hiei’s and Kuwabara’s decision, which means all the decisions, and Keiko indulged Yusuke shamelessly in the rare vacation. So poor Kurama was fated to suffer alone, with no one to complain to, even if he had the strength for it. He "REALLY" wanted to be alone with that Koorime for at least half a day.

But every black cloud has its silver lining, and he remembered it vividly.

*********************************************************************

On the first night, when Kurama came out from the bathroom dressed in his pajamas, he saw Hiei lying on his bed, still in his ordinary clothes.

"Hiei, didn't you bring anything to change?" It was a stupid question.

Hiei scowled at him. "You tricked me into coming, remember?"

Actually, Kurama forgot. "I'm sorry about this. Let's go shopping tomorrow to get you something to wear and some underwear." The idea of shopping with Hiei seemed very attractive for some reason.

"Underwear? What underwear?" With a frown, Hiei asked suspiciously.

Kurama's eyes widened. "You mean...you don't wear underwear??" Oh sweet Inari, this is too much....

"Of course not. Did you wear underwear when you were a youko? It's a ningen foolishness." Hiei sniffed contemptuously.

Hiei was right. Kurama did not wear underwear when he was a youko. Few youkais do, male youkais anyway. Too confining for smooth battle maneuvers. So Hiei is not wearing anything under that black pants of his...yes, if he stare closely enough, he can see the outlines of that magnificent...oh Inari...

"Kurama, your nose is bleeding.""

That night, Kurama's dreams were filled with him caressing some black material.

*********************************************************************

The next morning, Kurama went shopping with Hiei. But they had company.

The girls were especially interested in decorating...no no, dressing Hiei smartly. The male part of the entourage, except for Kurama and Hiei, thought the whole thing as a big joke. They were prepared to laugh the butt off the youkai. Hiei was determined not to give them the chance. Kurama thought it was better to go to the boutiques rather than a big department store, since Hiei possessed a somewhat rare height, and it might tax the salespeople’s patience to maximum before something suitable could be found.

It was not difficult to choose things for Hiei, since he would only wear black, and no other color. Parisians are inordinarily fond of black, so there were plenty of choice to choose from. The difficulty lied in finding the size. Kurama was familiar with the world of fashion, which came with the job, so he opted for Gucci as the first stop. *Hey, Kurama is rich!! Besides, Hiei deserves the best*^_^* *

"Bonjour, Messieurs et Mesdames. How may I help you?" The saleswoman inquired with a smile. She was not sure what to make of this group. They seemed to be Japanese, but except for one girl, their hair colors and eyes were too strange to be completely oriental. The red hair young man is stunning though, she appraised appreciatively. The combination of oriental features and grass green eyes were particularly appealing, and that luxurious tresses could make any woman chew her liver in envy. Kurama bore her stare patiently. He was used to this type of reaction.

"I would like to find something for my companion." Kurama indicated the disinterested Hiei.

"Of course. Follow me this way, please." The short one is handsome in a cold way, but his height...the woman thought regretfully. As if heard her thoughts, Hiei gave her his best don't -think-I-can't -kill-you-because-I'm-short look. She shuddered, then quickly turned away, not daring another peek. "This is my colleague, he'll take care of you." She introduced them to an immaculately dressed young man.

For the next hour, Kurama acted as Hiei's personal valet as he slaved over the Koorime's orders,' Give me this, fix me that.' Hiei refused to allow the salesman help him in dressing, and Kurama did not know which was happier about this, he or the salesman. Fortunately, Hiei instantly rejected articles with more than three buttons, on the ground that they took too much time. Zippers were accepted grudgingly, and Hiei could do them himself. Lacings, however, were another matter all together.

For all his talents, Hiei could not for his life tie a presentable bow. So Kurama of course got the honourable job of tying the lacings for Hiei, and in the course, had his self-restriction and endurance tested to the limits. He had to kneel down, and tie the lacings one by one. Kurama's hands were trembling. The Koorime's flesh was so hot that he could feel the heat on the palm of his hand, but Kurama could not carress them as he had done in a thousand dreams. A fragrance, no, not a fragrance, a scent of burning fire quenched in ice sent the Youko’s enhanced smelling sense reeling. He wanted so much to bury himself in the strong arms of Hiei, let his hands flow over the alabaster muscles, and taste each scar lovingly with the tip of his tongue. To kiss, to bite, to press himself as closely to his elusive loved as possible, tangle his body with the other’s, and in due course bind their souls together.

Kurama’s flaming desire was not unnoticed by Hiei, and raised the passion of the fire demon that was repressed by his icy demeanor. An accidental brush of hair or fingers tilted his lust, like a delectable fruit just beyond his reach, but teased with its perfect texture and enticing aroma. At the moment, Hiei did not think of Kurama as a rose, but a peach, a peach he could eat for hours. (Moondance: I’m sorry, Cage, I love your lines so much! *Face/Off*) He would tear off that confining jacket, bite off those annoying buttons on that white shirt one by one, and perhaps tie that teaser Youko’s hands by the tie he wore before continuing down to rend him nude.

Daydreams, as usual, remain as daydreams. Kurama would die before doing anything so outrageous as pushing Hiei on to the floor, and Hiei vice versa before their company of friends.

It was lucky for both of them that no trousers were even remotely close to Hiei’s size.

Later, another tiring day, ended by dropping dead on the lonely bed, too tired to do anything else but sleep.

*********************************************************************

I’ve never known that shopping could be so erotic. Kurama smiled ruefully. Well, today is our last day in Paris, and it seems that I would have to return empty-handed. The city of love had not being very kind to me, no?

"Kurama, stop daydreaming. Let’s think about what we are going to do in the last day." Yusuke said cheerfully, breaking Kurama out of his fond recollection.

"I thought you had that decided already." Kurama replied, then a bit acidly," As usual."

"Not today." Yusuke replied, still in that cheerful voice. Maybe his skin was too tough for that acid to sink in. "Let’s do something special."

"Independent tours today." Never one to waste words, Hiei put in his opinion shortly.

Everyone greeted it with enthusiasm.

"Now you talk sense!" Kuwabara cried gleefully, glad of a chance to be alone with Yukina under normal circumstances finally. He did not know about Hiei’s surveillance at night.

"Not a bad idea, Hiei." Keiko mused pleasantly. There was some shopping that she had to take care of, and she preferred to do that without a whole bunch of people tagging along.

"So that’s decided? Kurama, what do you think?" Yusuke asked the totally silent Kurama.

"As you like, then." Right now, Kurama’s mind was running in little circles, trying to puzzle out if this was Hiei’s way of telling him he wanted to be alone for the day, or he wanted a chance for they two to be together. Alone. He hoped it was the latter.

"See you guys later!" Kuwabara made of in a run with Yukina. But before him, a black shadow had already disappeared. Soon, Yusuke and Keiko walked away, chattering happily, which left only Kurama standing alone.

Not knowing where to go, Kurama thought about going back to the hotel room to catch up some sleep, but an empty bed was not so appealing. Not knowing where to go, he stood in front of the hotel, lost, until a black *Gucci?* pile dropped before him.

"Going anywhere, fox?" Hiei asked in a carefully indifferent tone.

"No, not really." Kurama replied with bated breath, in the same artificial carelessness.

"Know a big forest somewhere?" Apparently, Hiei had the day planned.

"Yes. I know just the place to go." With a smile, Kurama led Hiei off to the metro station.

*********************************************************************

Chapter 6

Bois de Bologne, one of the lungs of Paris city. A forest of several square kilometers, it was very easy to get lost in it. In the spring, it was particularly lovely, because of the numerous spring flowers planted there. Lilies of the valley, Lilas, forget-me-nots, tulips, all swayed in the gentle spring wind with the abandon of a half-drunk sailor, savoring the golden nectar from the rare spring sun. The most spectacular area in this season, however, was where the cherry and apricot trees were. Hundreds upon thousands of blossoms flourished, and from the top of Eiffel Tower, one could see a pearl of pink and white, lying amid a magnificent cushion of tender green. It was to this piece of forest that Kurama brought Hiei.

On seeing the scenery, Hiei murmured something like hopeless romantic under his breath, but he could not deny it was really gorgeous, with pastel colors soft as a dream. In the middle of those, in stark reality, was Kurama in his brilliant colors, presenting a sharp but harmonious contrast. Kurama stood in a halo of sunshine, head thrown back, eyes half closed. A hand idly smoothed his escaping curls in the wind, a banner of crimson silk. The trees bent closer as if to kiss him with the petals, and wrapped their flower laden branches together, weaving to and fro until they form a secure bower that none could penetrate. It was almost like the castle of Sleeping Beauty, only that Beauty was sleeping no more, and there was the prince.

The game of hide-and-seek, or should we say, cat-and-mouse was over. A time for frankness was needed, and the two decided now is the moment in mutual silence. Hiei waited in patience when Kurama isolated them from the world. When finally Kurama opened his eyes with a sign of contentment, he spoke.

"You want something from me." It was a statement, but also a question.

"Nothing that you would not give." A smile of complete acceptance illuminated Kurama’s face. In the simple sentence, he expressed all his love, trust, and hope for the little Koorime that so confused yet delighted him.

"That’s not very clear." Hiei frowned. By now, he was very aware of the ‘small prints’ in Kurama’s speech. Kurama would not lie, but he would twist the truth until it screamed if he wished.

"I want all that you would give, and will be satisfied with it." In the depth of his mind, Kurama added the small print ‘For now.’ Hiei was too relieved to hear the answer to pursue the question. Though he was unaware of it, Hiei lost a major battle then and there.

"Youkos love playing, don’t you?" It was not an accusation but a serious question in all its context.

"Yes." Equally serious, Kurama nodded.

"Let’s play a little, then." Without warning, Hiei flashed out his katana, and began a kata beautiful as life, but mortal as death. A painful death. However, Kurama was prepared for it. His rose whip was no less ready, and the whip and the sword met in half-air, with the long thorns cleverly blocking the blade without being cut. It was a mock battle, but serious nonetheless in its execution. With a twist, Hiei break the thorns by sheer wrist power, and slide along the whip to cut at Kurama’s hand. Kurama stood back a step, let go of the whip, and out flashed another from his left hand. Immediately, he launched an attack to curl it around Hiei’s left foot, but Hiei managed to pirouette away just in time for the whip to miss. Recovering instantly, Kurama slapped the ground and a long vine with hand-like leaves sprang from the earth, reaching forth hungrily. Hiei dived low, and in one clean strike cut the vine from the root. Not giving Kurama time to relax, Hiei penetrated into the defense circle of the whip with the super sonic speed of his, and pressed close to Kurama and delivered a straight blow toward the heart. Caught open in his guard, Kurama had no choice but to thrown himself onto the ground. Still, he managed to hook a foot around Hiei’s ankle, so the two went down in a heap. For a blinking second , Hiei lied immobile on top of Kurama, enjoying the soft body against his. The next second, he levered his katana across Kurama’s neck, only to find a cold point against his neck.

Neither dared to move first. The two rested immobile in the same position for a long minute, when suddenly, against all reason, Hiei pressed his neck against the point of Kurama’s dagger. It was Kurama who panicked, however, for he was reluctant to hurt his loved. Hurriedly, he flung his grass blade far away, and Hiei grabbed his empty hand by wrist, also pinned Kurama’s other hand to the ground by a knee. Even though it was painful, Kurama remained motionless when Hiei’s katana showed no sign of moving. Calmly, Hiei drew a thin line of blood on Kurama’s fair neck, and licked off the bright blood that flew. A mixture of pain and ecstasy rushed into Kurama’s body. In the velvety thick voice of his, Hiei purred against Kurama’s ear, " Winner takes all. See you in the room."

A flicker, and Hiei was gone.

*THAT’S not FAIR, Moondance-san!!!!! Why can’t we stay here??!?!?!" Kurama pouted reasonably. Frightfully adorable.

*Because, my dear Kurama, there are others who want to see the park."

*…….*

*Trust me, it’s cold out here. Hurry to your room now.*

*It was a complete waste of time.*

*Be nice.*

Without a further word, Kurama unmade the flower wall, and left to find the metro.

*********************************************************************

Chapter 7

The curtains were down, and the room was smothered in a darkness heavy as of a rain forest while sunlight beamed in through the doorway. Kurama stepped into the gloom, and saw Hiei reclining on the bed, watching him through half-narrowed eyes. He closed the door after him and crossed the carpet like a butterfly beating its noiseless wings, light and graceful. Sitting down on the floor of Hiei’s bedside, Kurama laid his head against Hiei’s knee, an unspoken demand for caress. Idly, Hiei threaded his fingers through the long glossy hair, and stroked the smooth cheek slowly. Kurama’s eyes narrowed in pleaseure. Suddenly, Hiei pulled Kurama on to his knees by grasping his chin forcefully, and took a deep kiss from him. The kiss was as Kurama had imagined, full of Hiei’s personality; rough, strong, intense as a bonfire, while the tongue darted like his katana, cutting Kurama free from his awareness. Returning freely, Kurama explored Hiei’s sweet mouth, and sucked on it gently, intent on giving and pleasing. Hands ran under Kurama’s black coat to pull him close, and Kurama shrugged off the cumbersome clothe with impatience, then enveloped his arms around Hiei’s neck.

Finally, Hiei pulled away reluctantly. Kurama was a great kisser, he admitted, but there was more in the kiss than pure technique and desire. There was something…more, an exchange of confidence? Or a promise of trust? Hiei could not tell. Now, however, was more for doing than thinking. With savage gentleness, he bit along the slender neckline, tracing the curve with the tip of his tongue. A slight moan escaped from Kurama’s lips. He started to stand up, but a pair of hands held him down on his knees as Hiei started on the sensitive earlobes. The warm breath sent a shiver down Kurama’s spine, and he could not help but strain to escape when Hiei began biting teasingly along the ridge of his ears. There was such thing as too much stimulation, and Kurama was undergoing it as his body suffered the unbearable sweetness under the administration of Hiei’s skillful mouth.

With mock ferocity, Hiei grabbed a fistful of Kurama’s hair, and tugged his head back gently. "Going anywhere, fox?" He murmured near the up-turned lips. Kurama offered a kiss as a prove to show leaving was his last intention. Still kissing passionately, Kurama stepped carefully up the bed to lie atop Hiei.

"Oh no, you don’t." Growling, Hiei rolled over to straddle Kurama. "I won, remember?"

"You played a trick on me." Kurama pouted a little, and this made him so cute that Hiei could not help but kissed him again.

"Maybe. But I won." This was Hiei to the hilt. Sometimes, winning is everything.

"You know I would never hurt you." Kurama whispered with an adoring smile. Breathing deeply, Kurama started to say," Hiei, I…" Hiei covered his mouth with his palm firmly.

"Whatever you want to say, don’t say it."

Reading Hiei’s determinate expession, Kurama nodded mutely, then kissed his palm in acceptance. The line between passionate trysts and emotional entanglement could be crossed all too easily with one word from him, and he knew instinctively that was what Hiei wanted to avoid the most. Opening his lips, Kurama’s pink tongue slid out to trace tiny patterns on Hiei's palm, then glided over the fingers, and sucks them into his mouth gently and repeatedly, one at a time.

Breath quickening, Hiei watched in fascination as Kurama’s mouth engaged his fingers into an erotic imitation of love-making. He could feel Kurama’s tongue dug deep into the hollow between his fingers, and from there trace the whole length to the top. There, he dallied, taking little sucks and light bites, until he held the whole finger in his mouth for a strong deep suck. From the back of his throat, Kurama hummed and sighed in small gasps, as if enjoying immensely what he was doing, which was probably true.

Using his free hand, Hiei fumbled at Kurama’s frustrating shirt buttons, finally tore them off with a curse of impatience. Docilely, Kurama allowed his Ungaro shirt to become a silk rag, while never stopping his dalliance with Hiei’s hand. Speechlessly, Hiei stared in awe at what must be the most beautiful torso in the world. Fair, a fairness of rippling marble, of frozen cream, of diamond-hard primrose with a gossamery pink flush. Muscularly, but of such a harmony and proportion that Michaelanglo would weep in despair for never be able to duplicate. Almost with awe, Hiei touched the skin, surprised at its kitten softness and silkiness. Two small rosy nipples seem to beg for some tender care, so venerable they seemed, compared to the firm muscles they sat on. Hiei touched one of them with an experimenting fingertip, pleased to see it crinkle up like an oyster hiding its pearl, while Kurama let out a bewitching moan, and arched his back to demand for more. Kurama had a sensitive body, Hiei observed with a certain devilish glee.

Taking his hand from Kurama’s mouth, Hiei proceeded to torture these two sensitive points thoroughly. Expertly, Hiei cupped, stroked, rubbed them with maddening lightness, and occasionally mixed in a hard pinch or a lick and a bite. Kurama

turned wild. He twisted his body in abandon, humped with his slim hip, and moaned and sighed in such passion and desire that Hiei had a hard-on as he never had in his life. But he held out, knowing that denying small releases now would bring about greater pleasures later. He lowered his body, and rubbed against Kurama’s manhood in a slow bump-and-grind. Kurama’s nails sank in Hiei’s back. "Splaz!" Kurama tore Hiei’s top into two unconsciously as he strove to contain the suddenly built up tension. Feeling Hiei’s burning flesh naked on his body, Kurama gasped as a fish desperate for air, and tears spilled from the corner of his eyes as his will of self-control broke down. This was the moment Hiei ad been waiting for.

Raising himself on his elbows, Hiei knelt above Kurama to give him a much needed respite, while amusing himself by taking a strand of Kurama’s long hair and brushed it over the much excited nipples. Blinking, Kurama opened his eyes slowly, dew-like teardrops flowed from the corner of his eyes.

"Hiei, I can’t take this much longer…." Kurama managed to squeeze out these words before another ripple of intense pleasure claimed him, and caused a fresh spill of tears.

"Then beg, fox. Beg me for what you want." This was Hiei’s revenge against Kurama’s deceit.

Without hesitation, Kurama pulled Hiei’s hands over his belt, and half sat up to embrace Hiei complete, flesh against flesh, skin against skin.

"Please, Hiei, I beg you. Give me release, please, I’ll go mad. Please. I BEG you!!!" The last words were almost screamed out as Hiei rubbed his already swollen shaft through the cloth. Smirking in contentment, Hiei pulled lose the belt and dragged down Kurama’s last clothing, trousers and all to toss them away in a heap. Kurama’s first attempt at begging was barely adequate by Hiei’s standard, but he decided to take it easy on him at first. There would be time enough for improvement later.

For the first time in his life as Minamino Shuiichi, Kurama was completely naked in front of another, except for his mother. But his mother had never seen him in this state. The lower half of him was as perfect as the upper half. Legs of incredible length, tendons and muscles that were both elegant and sexy. Soft fine down of the most delicate rose color lent a becoming blush to the long calves, and flourished at the top of tapering thighs, cushioning the members as perfect as the rest of him. Hiei could do nothing but admire the sheer magnificence of Inari’s most wondrous creation. And he’s mine, Hiei could not help but smile. Then his brows turned dark. To think such tender skin was repeatedly torn and scratched in uncountable battles made Hiei flame up in anger, though in the past he had always accepted those as a price to pay for victory. It was no less than a miracle that Kurama’s mortal body was as unblemished as it was, no doubt thanks to the healing power of Youkina and magical Makai plants.

"What’s the matter, Hiei?" Kurama asked a little worriedly. Though he was fairly certain of his own attractiveness, he was no sure that if the Koorime had the same aesthetic senses as most of the living beings.

"Nothing. I just don’t like to think of your injuries, that’s all." Lowering down his head, Hiei took in the center of Kurama’s being into his mouth, taking away all Kurama’s will to reply.

As Kurama had played with Hiei’s fingers, Hiei did the same thing with Kurama, but on a much larger scale with much more noticeable effect. He mouthed the flawlessly formed scrotums, bathing them in a through manner with his mouth and tongue till Kurama had to pushed his head away to avoid a premature spill. Catching hold of Kurama’s wrists, Hiei held them firmly at his side, and began to give the centerpiece the same treatment but in much greater detail. He started by splattering kiss from the base to the top, tasting a tiny flow of salty liquid. Then he ran his tongue along the full length of Kurama’s member, ended by sucking in alternative rhythm and varying strength, then speeding up to build up a climax that Kurama longed to reach but controlled by Hiei. All the while, Kurama cried and moaned incoherent phrases, pleading and screaming out Hiei’s name. He no longer cared for decorum, and to hell with anyone who heard him; he just want to let go in an avalanche of satisfaction. Finally, Hiei took a deep breath, and did a deep throat for Kurama.

"Hiei, I’m coming!!!!!!" Kurama half screamed, half gasped in strangled breath as he felt himself drained of will, knowledge, even soul as he exploded in million shards and shared in the ecstasy of life and bliss of death. For an instant, the world froze in a moment of eternity, then he drifted down to the reality of a warm body against him.

Hiei swallowed down the last drop and wiped the corner of his mouth. What he did for Kurama just now was something he almost never did for any of his lovers. By taking in a part of his lover, he allowed something to enter and integrated with his sense of singularity, which was highly against his principle of aloofness. The most remarkable point, however, was the deep throat. It was something that Hiei had never done for anyone. The penetration was too much like the invasion of self for Hiei’s liking, so he flatly refused anytime he was asked to do so. For Kurama, on the other hand, he did it voluntarily. In truth, he was not very sure about why he chose to do that, but it felt like the most natural thing in the world to accept a part of Kurama into himself. He set it aside for later reflection, and concentrated on the task at hand.

"Hiei…" Kurama whispered in a trance-like state as he caressed Hiei’s body lovingly. He pulled his lover close to him with one hand around the strong back, and the other worried at Hiei’s numerous belts. Hiei rested his chin on the top of Kurama’s head as Kurama splattered tiny kisses on his chest, often pausing lingeringly over scars here and there. Apparently, Kurama was much better at undressing than Hiei was, because Hiei realized with a start that he was completely naked. This might have something to do with the interesting massaging/stroking technique Kurama employed around the region of Hiei’s butt and crotch. Whatever it was, Hiei was more in battle form (so to speak) than he ever were before.

"This is the first time for this body, so please be patient with me." Kurama whispered, even shyly, for the last time he needed to say this was hundreds of years ago.

Lying back, he opened his arched knees in a gesture of total submission, and gave Hiei a look so full of love and confidence that Hiei choked back an exclaimation. Silently, he offered Kurama his fore and middle finger, which he took into his mouth eagerly. Thoroughly wet, Hiei dipped them cautiously into the tight burning opening in which was heaven.

In a slight grimace, Kurama tried to ignore the inevitable pain and concentrated on relaxing his muscles, trying to recall the sensation and flexibility of his other body. Apparently, this worked, for Hiei’s fingers suddenly slipped in completely without obstacle. Dizzy and aroused, Kurama let out a small protest when Hiei withdrew his fingers, a filled emptiness emptied again. But he quickly understood what Hiei wanted from him when he was urged to turn over on his stomach. Willingly, Kurama pressed his torso to bed to arch his back as much as possible, offering an exquisitely shaped bottom toward Hiei. Without looking, he felt Hiei’s hands spread open his buttocks, which made him blush furiously as he imagined Hiei’s view. When the hands tightened, he inhaled deeply, readied himself for the entrance of his lover.

In a smooth thrust, Hiei entered into Kurama’s inner being, and its tightness and heat almost made him come instantly. Hiei overcame his urge to move immediately, instead gave Kurama several moments to get used to his size, which was considerable, by this time. When he felt Kurama relaxed and ready once more, he began rocking in a slow and languorous rhythm, letting a low dragon grow fill his throat. Soon, Kurama began to snap his hip in impatience, a wantonness that made his heavy-lidded green eyes glaze ever more brilliantly, and increased Hiei’s lust by tenfold when he turned to look at him coyly over his shoulder.

"You should ride me hard, my fiery stud." Kurama breathed, running a cherry tongue tip over his rouge lips. Encouraged by this small taunt, Hiei let loose of all his inhibitions and restrain, and started a pounding rhythm that caused their cries and grows to resound in the room. Soon, the tension became too great for Hiei to withhold anymore.

"I’m coming, fox!"

"I’ll catch you, beloved."

The word ‘beloved’ echoed in Hiei’s mind without cease as he was swept away by the tide of passion, tossed into heaven and caught again by soft clouds which lowered him to ground tenderly as he slipped out from Kurama’s body to lay beside him, panting.

An arm stole out to encircle Hiei, and Hiei invited Kurama’s head to rest on his shoulder. Basked in the warmth of after glow, Hiei was close to falling asleep when he remembered.

"Why did you call me ‘beloved’?" He asked the almost asleep Kurama.

"Because I love you."

Watching Kurama’s sleeping face, Hiei brooded.

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Chapter 8

When Kurama woke up from his deep slumber, Hiei was nowhere to be seen.

Which was not too surprising, in view of what took place. Kurama thought foggily, shaking his head to clear out the webs in his mind. Remembering last night, Kurama smiled. As he suspected all along, Hiei was a really skillful lover, perhaps haunted by his sense of perfection even in this area of activity, but the sheer harmony in their love-making was unexpected. Never in his experience had Kurama met a bedmate who was so compatible with him that there had been no need to adapt to each other needs. He was sure that Hiei felt the same way, the flawlessness of how their bodies moved in rhyme was undeniable evidence. Stretching lazily, Kurama wondered where could the Koorime be, when a patch of warmth filled his palm. Eyes wide, Kurama touched it again tentatively. The heat was intense, much too high for a human body, yet not unbearable. So he did not leave immediately! Kurama thought in wonder. Come to think of it, he did remember feeling unusually warm in his sleep, the warmth of a baby floating in the silent shelter of its mother womb, the warmth of security and assurance. This was much more than he dared to hope for.

Kurama did not fool himself about the significance of this tryst. What happened between them was just the first step in a long quest, the departure of a voyage into the hearts of wilderness unknown. He perceived it as neither a promise, nor a pledge, just a mutual need for satisfaction, while on his part, he planned it to be the beginning of something more profound. He was aware that Hiei’s capitulation could pass over quickly if he could not hold him with more than an erotic charm. Be it a year or a century, the Koorime would become bored, sooner or later. It had nothing to do with Kurama’s physical attributes, but an inevitable end for all relationships based on such a flimsy basis. With his multitude of ex-lovers, Kurama understood this more than anyone else. It was his wish that he could make Hiei be infatuated with his body, then gradually win his heart. Seems that Hiei had started out on the second part all on his own. The thought made Kurama smile happily. Hiei might not feel secure enough for the present to fall asleep in his arms, but the willingness to stay for a glow of after warmth and simply holding his body without further demands were clear signs of affection. Kurama decided that he had to catch up with Hiei quickly before his confession of love soured into a mad moment of passion in the youkai’s mind, or drove him back because he felt threatened. If Hiei truly harbored something more for him than pure lust, he had to encourage its fragile growth most carefully, else Hiei would weed it away, as he did to anything that would endanger him. Sitting up, Kurama began to dress.

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The bustling of the vast city diminished gradually, until only an occasional flash of light would light up the darkness before all quieted down to insignificance. From Hiei’s perch, he could see that far away, a last stream of gold flowed, winding between banks of monuments before scattering into the wildness like school children heading for home. Truly, a city of this size could almost be organic, and a part of it would always be conscious, just like a human mind, even while the rest of the body slept. This was the same for youkais.

Strong winds darted around Hiei’s taunt body, reaching out thin cold fingers to stroke his face and toy with his hair, occasionally run an icy touch along his spine. Hiei was too tense to be enticed by the winds’ antics, though, and staring off into the star sprinkled sky, his brows frowned in thought. In his mind, the image of Kurama saying ‘I love you.’ played out over and over again. Sometimes he felt detached, other times frightened, and there were times when he experienced joy, or backed away in uncertainty.

What was so simple became decidedly complicated because of one word--love. If only he could turn back the hands of time! He would block that single word out from his hearing; he would leave directly after their love-making; he would seal that fox’s lips with a kiss; he would…he would… Yet it was no good crying over spilt milk. He heard Kurama’s confession, so he must deal with it accordingly. Damn that fox and his big mouth! Hiei cursed for the tenth time. Why must he disrupt what we had? Hiei fumed silently. We could have enjoyed each other’s company for a while, and part as friends. But now…He loves me, shit, he LOVES me!! What if I love him too?? What if we become lovers? And then? Can we be together for a lifetime? Will he want to leave eventually? Will I be tired of the attachment and decide to go on my way alone? What will happen? What will happen?? What Will Happen!?!?!?

Though he was reluctant to admit it to himself, Hiei was scared. He had uncountable enemies, a handful of occasional lovers, but in the category of friends, it had always been empty, until he joined up with the Urameshi team. If pushed hard enough, Hiei would even recognize, albeit with great reluctance, that clumsy Kuwabara as a friend. Yet of the three, Kurama was the most special of them all. He was a youkai, yet his nature was so good! In Hiei’s experience, goodness, in the savage Makai where the only law was survival for the fittest, was as rare as his sister’s tear stones. Combine that with might, it was rare as one of his own. Against all chances, Kurama was one who possessed both decency and power. Youko Kurama might have been a notorious thief that to cross his path often meant death, but the rebirth as Minamino Shuuichi changed him. Or perhaps liberated the suppressed spirit. Hiei did not know. Whatever the case, little by little, the remote Koorime had been won over. As a youkai, Kurama understood his inset suspicion and wariness like none else did, but as a human, Kurama showed him that betrayal might not follow trust, deceit might not underlay sincerity. Now, faced with the possibility of losing that precious rapport, a fear chilled Hiei to his marrow. Suddenly, he wanted to see Kurama so badly that his heart faltered.

As if Inari heard his wish, a ki of silver and rose approached.

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*Can I come up?* At the bottom of Eiffel Tower, Kurama sent up an inquiry with his ki. He waited for a moment, and took the silent as an affirmative answer. A green pea appeared in the center of Kurama’s hand, then started to sprout as soon as it fell to the ground. Shortly, a long green stalk stretched up to the inky sky. It might look like the magic bean stalk in fairy tales, but Kurama made several improvements. The minute the stalk reached its destined height, it bent down its velvety tip, and arranged its softest leaves into a bower-like seat for Kurama. Settled in comfortably, Kurama patted the stalk, and it raised its head, taking Kurama up to the top of Eiffel Tower.

"Hiei." Kurama said simply as greeting. Hiei refused to look at him. Undaunted, Kurama reached out to catch hold of the iron bars, and pulled himself over. He turned to nod at the stalk in thanks, which the stalk responded in a soft rustle and twitch, meaning ‘my pleasure’, and promptly shrunk down into normal size. The top being sharp as it is, Kurama could not stand beside Hiei, who was standing at the utmost top, so he had to settle for sitting on the bars at Hiei’s feet.

"How did you find me?" A deep voice cut open the silence.

"I always know where you are." Good, at least Hiei was willing to talk.

"You spy on me?"

"No more than you do."

Hiei had the grace to blush slightly at Kurama’s reply. He hoped the night covered up his awkwardness. No such luck.

"Why, you are blushing!" Kurama remarked delightedly. It was the change of Hiei’s body temperature that alerted Kurama.

" I like to have you spy on me." Seriously, Kurama replied. " I know that sometimes you slept on the tree outside my bedroom when I was still staying with my mother. And there were times when I felt your presence in my roof garden. When I had to go away on business trips, I could feel your Jagan check on me, and that always made me feel so safe. I know you care for me, but I don’t know how." Here Kurama paused, giving Hiei a chance to reply. When Hiei still maintained his stoic silence, Kurama pressed the question. "How, Hiei? Do you care for me as a normal friend? A best friend? Or…as someone you might love someday?" Even in the darkness, Kurama could see Hiei’s body jolted like being electrified at the last question.

For a long time, none of them spoke. Kurama was prepared to sit there all night to drag an answer out of the close mouthed Koorime. Finally, Hiei stirred from his immobility.

"Why ask so much, Kurama?" Hiei asked in a troubled voice, a drastic difference from his normal confident tone. " I don’t want to loose you as a friend. You are my best friend."

Hiei’s answer plunged Kurama into the heart of North Pole. Before, he would have been content with an acknowledgment of being Hiei’s best friend, but after tonight, he raised his hopes, and now watched them being dashed into pieces. Holding back a sudden urge to cry manfully, he tried to reply as neutrally as possible. " Okay, I understand. Don’t worry, you won’t lose me as your best friend." If I don’t die of a broken heart first. "Just forget what I said tonight."

"No!" The intensity of his refusal seemed to startle Hiei himself as well. Something in Kurama’s voice touched the deepest core of his being, pulling out his most hidden thoughts. The wild hope revived in Kurama’s heart.

"No? I thought…" Kurama’s voice trailed off, afraid to stem Hiei’s sudden passion accidentally by leaping to conclusions.

"I don’t think I can." Now it was Hiei’s turn to have a heartburn. There were so many things that he wanted to say, but accustomed to silence, he had to struggle with the words that would not come out easily. "Other people said the same thing before, but I didn’t believe them. I was right. But, I believe you." For the first time since Kurama climbed up the tower, Hiei lowered his head to stare straight into Kurama’s eyes. There, he saw nothing but a complete baring of self and an unconditional acceptance of what he was, is, and will be. In one glance, Kurama gave Hiei enough courage to pour out his fear. "What if it doesn’t work out between us?"

To Hiei’s astonishment, Kurama said," I have the same fear." Seeing Hiei’s widened eyes, Kurama smiled ruefully and nodded. "Hai, I’m not as confident as I seem. This is the first time ever I’ve felt so intensely about anyone, so I don’t quite know what will happen." Sighing a little, Kurama confessed. "Actually, I don’t know if we will work out as lovers. But!" Seeing Hiei’s reaction at his remark, Kurama hurried on. " But I know, at this moment, I love you enough to want to live out the rest of my life with you. I’m not asking you to respond to me in the same depth right now, Hiei. After all, I’ve loved you for years."

"Years?" Hiei could not believe his hearing.

"Years. Perhaps ever since I caught my first sight of you. Perhaps my admiration for you changed at some point. I don’t know. But, yes, I’ve loved you for years. And I’m willing to wait, if you want to try to love me back. I’ll wait till eternity, if that’s the time that you need." A light of unshakable determination shone in Kurama’s eyes. He was ready to do anything to prove the sincerity of his words. Hiei looked at him in wonder. The question still nagged him, however.

"But what if it doesn’t work out between us?" Hiei insisted.

"Then we’ll part as friends. You will never lose me as a friend." Kurama was beginning to realize how important this was for Hiei. "We will never know if we suit each other until we try, and I don’t want to live in regrets."

"No regrets…" Hiei murmured to himself. Kurama was right. In his life, he already had too many regrets. The regret of never knowing his mother, the regret of growing up alone with no one to care for him and he to care for in return, the regret of not knowing any other life than vengeance, the regret of an arrangement that took away his right to recognize his sister, all this will be surmounted by the regret of not experiencing love with Kurama, the most important person in his life aside from Yukina. "Give me the time I need, fox." Saying, he reached down a hand to cup Kurama’s chin.

A tremendous joy threatened to burst through every vein in Kurama’s body, but all he did was holding Hiei’s hand, and raised it to his lips for a kiss. "All that you need, love."

Withdrawing his hand from Kurama’s clutch slowly, Hiei’s eyes flickered in decision. One moment Kurama was gazing dreamily into a pair of ruby eyes, the next moment he was staring at a void. "Hiei!!!"

"Here." To Kurama’s horror, the answer came floating back from the emptiness beneath him. Hiei was falling down from the top of Eiffel Tower. Even a youkai of his ability would be seriously hurt from the impact of a 300-meter free fall.

I thought he was afraid of heights. Kurama thought numbly, but it was just a flicker of an idea. Immediately, he sent out a burst of ki to the waiting beanstalk on the ground. It sprang up instantaneously, and Kurama leaped down to catch hold of its swinging tentacles to pull Hiei back, but Hiei fell right past him. Fortunately, the helpful plant managed to curl Hiei up with a particularly agile tentacle. Although Hiei severed it with his katana, the plant bought Kurama the sorely needed seconds to reach the ground before Hiei did. Frantically running, Kurama managed to catch Hiei in an embrace before Earth could do the same.

"Why did you do that!!!" Kurama almost screamed at the nonchalant youkai in his arms. Hiei replied simply.

"Because you said you won’t let me fall, you’ll catch me."

The response brought Kurama up short. "Yes, and I mean it." Kurama by now had recovered enough to smile quivering. "But…don’t make a habit of it, all right? My heart nearly stopped."

"We’ll see." With that, Hiei disappeared from Kurama’s arms into the night.

As a precaution, Kurama called back his beanstalk and changed it back into the pea, but not before giving it a small kiss of thanks on one of its leaves. The plant turned pink for a second, and rustled its leaves vigorously, equivalent to an excited giggle. Pocketing the pea carefully, Kurama walked toward the hotel, where he was sure that Hiei was waiting. If Hiei had to resort to such dramatic measure every time to prove his trust in him, he had better bring the pea with him everywhere.

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The End!!!!!