InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ On The Night Of A Blood Red Moon ❯ Chapter 17

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Title: On The Night Of A Blood Red Moon
Author: Ryukotsusei and Cyntinell
Disclaimer: We do not own Inuyasha or Yu Yu Hakusho. We do however own the plot. Steal it and you shall face our wrath.

Warnings: This is a dark fic. It does have graphically detailed rape in it, as well as lemons in future chapters. It's likely to have major character deaths as well. Reviews are always appreciated, flames not tolerated. You are forewarned.

*LEMON IN THIS CHAPTER*

Chapter Seventeen

Ryuji stared in shock, his eyes widening as he took a step back. There were few times in his life that he had ever felt true fear but this had become one of them. He swallowed hard and tried to keep himself from acting on the urge to flee as he was filled with sudden dread. A sickening feeling developed in the pit of his stomach as he watched the skeleton lean towards him. Was this the beginning of the second trial? It would have to be, dead things did not speak. He had a sudden desire to be taking his chances back in the wasteland again instead of being here facing with this creature but he somehow knew that if he were to attempt to leave he would never make it out alive.

"Ryuji."

The rasping voice was low and hollow, barely loud enough to be heard but then Ryuji's senses were on edge at that particular moment. Immediately Ryuji assumed a defensive stance, ready to counter anything that the skeleton thought to throw at him. He was not about to be caught off guard at such a critical time, he would not fall prey to this second trial as so many had before him. Regardless of his resolve though, Ryuji knew he was in trouble should the skeleton choose to attack. Their were few things that could eliminate those that already walked through the afterlife and without knowing exactly what this creature was casting, the proper spells would be difficult to accomplish.

"Ryuji."

It called to him once more, the creature's bony fingers beckoning him closer. He cursed inwardly at Masakazu, it should be him that was here trying to gain this weapon but instead the Crow had delegated the responsibility. Should he obey the call? Truthfully he knew that he had no choice in the matter, assuming he could get out of here alive Masakazu would never let him live if he failed to bring the Scepter. He was stuck between a rock and a hard place, either option could easily get him killed. Suddenly he felt a foreign power wrapping around his body, flowing into it. He struggled to breathe as it blanketed him, his muscles began to twitch involuntarily and with growing horror he realized that he was slowly walking towards the skeleton. He tried to stop himself, fighting against the energy that had surrounded him but time after time he was doomed to failure. One step closer, then another. The sound of his heartbeat thundered in his ears as he continued forward, helpless against the control that held him. Closer and closer he moved, perspiration liberally trailed down the sides of his face as he walked forward. Something snapped inside of him, finally bending his will towards what was happening to him. He resigned himself to fate, not knowing if he would meet his end in this dark place. No longer fighting he found that it was easier to breath as he walked of his own accord. His destination reached, he stopped just in front of the warrior.

"The darkness surrounds you. Your transgressions are many. Do you remember?"

Ryuji shivered as the question washed over him. The voice was cold and emotionless reminding him of how he often felt inside. He considered the question carefully, knowing that if he answered wrongly his life would be forfeit. But how was he to answer a question that he did not fully understand. Remember? Remember what? His life had been spent forgetting, having no regrets. He only lived to gain more power, more knowledge to use to his advantage. Had he somehow met the skeletal warrior before? It was impossible, the creature had been here for centuries. Yet still, something prodded at his mind willing him to understand. The dull red eyes stared into his own. He found himself unable to look away from it's piercing gaze.

"You see without seeing. To master what you seek the light cannot aid you. Are you truly blind?"

Ryuji tried to shake off the feeling that the questions made no sense. There had to be a reason to them yet he could not find it. He felt the blackness threatening to overwhelm him, where it would take him to he was positive he didn't want to know. Ryuji knew that the warrior was not referring to seeing what was right in front of him. No, that would be too easy. The red eyes glowed deeply as he strained to see further into them, hoping for some clue of what the answer was.

"You are oblivious to all except the betrayal in your own heart."

Ryuji felt his willpower beginning to drain away. He no longer had the desire to fight. Why had he come here anyway? Did it really matter anymore? He had all but given himself over to the Fates. There were no answers to these questions, none the dead would understand. He couldn't even have the answers for himself, the questions were too vague. Ryuji lowered his eyes, no longer able to meet that penetrating stare. It slid down to the jewel in the Scepter and rested there.

"I see your inner most desires Ryuji. Do you really think the one born of fire and ice will allow you to live?"

A spark of recollection gathered in Ryuji's mind. Could the skeleton actually be reading him somehow? Delving into his thoughts? Perhaps that was indeed what the skeleton was doing. Maybe there was a chance for him after all. He shuddered as he felt a strange power beginning to build. Knowledge was power but he had never expected his own thoughts to be used against him. He realized he still might be able to win this if he could find whatever it was that the creature was searching for.

"Salvation lies with the pure one. From virgin to whore she alone maintains the balance. Do you know of that which I speak of?"

Ryuji tried to shift away not liking the direction the questioning had taken but he found himself frozen in place. He was certain that the warrior spoke of the Priestess but what balance would she maintain? What did she have to do with anything? He watched as the skeleton moved the Scepter closer to him, the jewel beginning to pulse with power. His mind raced at the possibilities of what was to come. The intent was clear as the staff was raised in the air, the sound of grinding bones echoing through the emptiness. If he did not answer correctly he would certainly lose his life under the blow he was anticipating.

"Yes." Ryuji whispered, praying that the answer was the correct one. He watched as the pulsing slowed and the skeleton sat back as if to consider his answer. Fear blanketed him as he watched the hand holding the Scepter lowered. What terrified him was the expression that crossed the creature's face. It was almost as if it were trying to smile, the mummified bits of skin cracking and flaking off as the lips stretched. The dark pools of red flicked inside the black eye sockets giving off an unholy glow. Movement along the creature's hands once more drew his attention and he realized that it was now covered with a writhing mass of larva. He recognized the species of flesh eaters but what surprised him was when they seemed to regurgitate the tissues they had once feasted upon.

Horrified he watched as the grotesque mass reformed into living tissue. Organs were once more replaced before his very eyes and he noted with fascination the exact moment the heart within began to pulse with life once more before it was covered. Translucent skin formed over the creatures body and slowly it's chest rose once more, taking in what had to be it's first breath in centuries. It seemed like an eternity had passed while he waited when finally it opened it's eyes locking it's gaze with his own.

Warily he looked the creature over, noticing the pool of blood at his feet that was already beginning to coagulate. He knew he had never seen this man before and yet there seemed to be something very familiar about him. He didn't have time to ponder over this however as once more the silence was broken. This creature's voice was no longer harsh but clear and deep indicating exceptional strength.

"I can see the hate that festers in your heart Ryuji. You've betrayed everything you once stood for and now you will suffer the curse of your actions."

The warrior before him stood quickly and grasped Ryuji firmly on the shoulders. As he was pinned in place the features of the man in front of him shifted rapidly, each time taking on the appearance of someone he once knew. Someone he once betrayed. Someone he once tortured with his own hands. He continued to pull Ryuji closer, never ceasing in the shifting of his form as his lips descended on the Dragon's. As he pulled away Ryuji's head snapped back, his mouth opening in a soundless scream as the blackness overcame him.

How long had he lain there? Mere minutes or hours? Ryuji wasn't certain, it seemed as if time held no meaning to him. Every moment was like an eternity that he suffered through. He opened his eyes and felt a surge of apprehension go through him. It shouldn't be possible but he couldn't deny what he was seeing. Standing in front of him was himself. Even now as the chains held him in place, his double was smiling cruelly down on him. Blood covered the room, no doubt from the multiple gashes that pained him. The metallic tang of the liquid filled his mouth making him gag. How had he ended up like this? He knew what was coming, after all he had been the one to do this to so many others before. The suffering he had gone through would soon be at an end, or so he hoped. The one thing he had always clung to was his unpredictability. Would he be able to anticipate what his double would now do? He stared into his own eyes as he was approached. He saw the twisted gleam that reflected back at him and shuddered in fear. Ryuji knew the look well, it was his own after all. He also knew he would not be leaving this cavern alive.

"True mastery cannot be achieved without knowing what it is that your victim experiences. I give you the gift of that knowledge."

Those words chilled him to the bone, he had no desire to learn first hand what he put them through. Ryuji watched the other man pull a blade from the fire, the steel glowing a fiery white. Slowly he was approached and the blade lowered. A muted cry escaped his lips as he felt the searing pain, the blade being pressed hard against his open wound effectively cauterizing the gash. Blood no longer flowed from the wound but the pain only intensified. Sweat ran down his face as he panted, the salty liquid meeting the open wounds on his face. As the blade came down once more he frantically struggled against the chains but they were unyielding.

Ryuji tried to scream but once more barely any sound came out. His captor had done his job well, removing enough of his tongue to ensure that his sensitive hearing would not be damaged by the cries that escaped him. The muffled sound brought a smile to the one standing in front of him. Ryuji knew from previous experiences that this was almost over. The need for pain had been sated, the torture complete. Now it was only a matter of time before the finishing blow was dealt that would end his suffering. His captor's cold smile was the last thing he saw as once more the white hot blade came near. He closed his eyes in a futile attempt to shield them from what was to come. He felt his heart still momentarily as the pain exploded in his head. Slowly it receded as he drifted into a fog, realizing that he was now watching his own body from a distance above. It was with a sort of detached interest as he saw the blade brought in close once more and completely remove the other eye. Once that was accomplished the hot blade was discarded for a lighter katana. It cut through the air easily and was buried deep within his flesh effectively slitting his throat. The slash was just deep enough that it did not kill instantly, instead letting the blood fill his lungs to drown him. Grateful that it was finally over, he let the blackness claim him once more.

Awareness slowly came back to him and Ryuji opened his eyes. Confusion overwhelmed him as he realized that he was once again able to see. His hands crept to his throat, still experiencing the lingering pain of having his throat slit. His eyes darted around frantically, looking for the one who had inflicted such pain on him but the warrior was nowhere to be found. Instead his eyes focused on the empty chair where the skeleton had once sat. The scepter leaned against the throne, no longer emitting the power it had. Now it lay dormant, awaiting the call of it's next master. He had won, somehow he had managed to pass the trial. Slowly he walked up to it and placed his hand upon the Scepter. Seeing there was no reaction to his touch he allowed the exhaustion to overtake him. He would worry about escaping this place later. But for now he collapsed into the chair, falling into a troubled sleep.

~*~

Hiei stood in the alter room eyeing the chains that hung from the wall. He was becoming desperate enough to place them on himself, if only to prevent him from going to see her. The only thing stopping him was the uncertainty of what would happen if he were to do so. Would one of the others come upon him? It was likely that they would and he would be powerless to stop them from using him in any way they wished. He thought it was almost worth it though, if it would keep Kagome safe. He knew that he had to make a decision soon, place himself in bondage or continue fighting what he knew was coming. He took a step closer to the wall, his entire body trembling from the strain. He managed another step forward before he fell to the floor with a groan. Sweat poured from his body as he warred with himself. He knew he was lost, he had one final option. 'Even if I chain myself Masakazu is likely to throw me in with her. I have to get out of here!'

The only solution was for him to leave the lair, at least temporarily. He could always return for her later, his punishment for leaving would be harsh but he would accept it gladly if it meant he didn't harm her. He would leave and go as far away as possible, sparing Kagome more torment. His love for her had kept him sane thus far but now it was most likely too late for them both. If he stayed he would take her, there was no question. Hiei knew that he could survive in the forest and wait out his cycle. He just needed to make it out of the lair to begin with, he'd worry about what came afterwards later on.

Groaning he pulled himself off of the floor and stood there shakily. 'I have to make it, I have no choice!' Steeling himself against the burning that was coursing through his veins he made his way out to the main corridor. He no longer worried about people watching him. They accepted his wanderings easily now, as if it were a normal occurrence. This time should be no different, he just had to make it to the front door. 'I'm sorry Kagome, I can't stay here. I won't rape you.' He felt as if he was taking the cowardly way out by running but he was out of options. He could only hope that she would forgive him for leaving, she was sure to miss his presence. What would happen if he managed to escape? The longings would not go away, he knew that much. What was to stop him from returning once he made his way out? He didn't have any answers for his questions and he refused to dwell on them at the moment. Instead he concentrated on making his way to the entrance. One step at a time. He had now reached the peak of his cycle and nothing short of a miracle would prevent him from the object of his desire.

Hiei was almost there, the strain had become nearly unbearable as he stepped into the entrance chamber. His goal was nearly in sight, only a few feet more and he would be free. He fought the desire to turn around to go back to the cell that held Kagome and instead began to make his way down the passage that would take him to the outside. So far he had been extremely lucky, he had not met up with anyone who might question where he was going to. Just because his movements were not hindered inside did not mean that they would not stop him for venturing out. He had reached the doorway and paused with his hand on it as images of Kagome flashed before his eyes. Would she be okay with him disappearing like this? Masakazu could easily choose to take his displeasure out on her for his disappearance. Indecision gripped him and he felt the familiar ache in his heart that came every moment that he was separated from her. It only intensified as he thought about how he was abandoning her because of his own weakness. His hesitation is what cost him he escape, whatever he desired now was no longer of concern. Hiei knew it as soon as he heard him.

"Just where do you think you are going Shadow?" Masakazu's voice echoed off the stone walls, making Hiei's shoulders slump slightly. The Crow stood watching him from a short distance away, smiling at the look of defeat on the young demon's face. Casually he walked up to the Hybrid and laid a hand upon his shoulder ignoring the way he tensed underneath the touch. Almost gently Masakazu spun Hiei around and pressed his back up against the door. He could feel the heat radiating off of Hiei, his body attempting to cool itself from the raging battle going on within. Masakazu inhaled deeply, taking in the musky edge of Hiei's scent. He had always thought the Apparition was intoxicating under normal circumstances, now it had only heightened his appeal. His voice was low and seductive which made Hiei cringe. That tone never meant anything good would come. "You know Shadow, if I didn't already have plans for you I would take you myself." A pleased hum came from the Crow's throat as he began to run his clawed fingers down Hiei's chest and further down. He already knew that Hiei sat on the brink and the slightest touch would have him begging for some sort of release.

Hiei's eyes clenched shut, unwilling to look at the bastard that stood before him. Even when Masakazu's hand cupped his painful arousal he refused to meet his gaze, even though he knew that the Crow was greatly enjoying his torment. For the barest of moments he thought of goading Masakazu to be the one to take him. Granted he could not stand his touch, if he could find release that way it would mean Kagome would remain safe from his advances. The idea was quickly shoved away as Masakazu leaned forward and licked the side of his neck. A shudder of disgust raced through his body even as he hardened further, his body betraying his mind. He refused to give himself up willingly to Masakazu. Not again, not if he could help it.

Masakazu loved the way that Hiei was fighting his body's natural reactions. Even now as he could feel the growl emanating from the Apparition's chest his hips had pressed forward in effort to enhance the feelings he so desperately needed. It was almost time, only a bit more of a push would be needed and Hiei would be lost. "Why do you resist Shadow? Why try to run? I know that you need this, is one mere human so important that you would risk your own health? I can smell your desire. Fight if you wish but you know that in the end you cannot win. Give it up now and spare yourself the pain."

Hiei's eyes snapped open and met Masakazu's. Hatred exploded in his chest as the Crow continued to talk to him. Talking as if Kagome was nothing infuriated him, he would never willingly hurt her just to spare himself. He refused to allow it! His smaller hands moved up and braced themselves against Masakazu's chest. The Crow leaned into him but Hiei refused to allow him closer. He shoved the taller demon away from him, lashing out with his claws with Masakazu made to move closer to him. He was losing control of himself as it was, if the Crow continued to advance upon him there was likely to be bloodshed. He tried to move past Masakazu, intent on getting away from him but once more the bastard pushed him back against the wall.

Masakazu gripped Hiei's chin firmly and forced him to meet his gaze. He was prepared for the assault Hiei launched upon him as the Hybrid's claws sought his throat. Swiftly he caught the smaller demon before he could strike what may have been a fatal blow. Hiei's body contacted roughly with the stone wall behind him, fragments of the rock embedding firmly into his skin. He could feel the blood beginning to trickle down and soak into his shirt. He stared into the Crow's eyes, his hatred obvious to any who cared to look. Yet there was no anger in Masakazu's eyes as he held his gaze, only amusement at the torment he was putting his pet through. "Such a foolish demon you are Shadow, choosing a worthless human bitch as the one worthy of your feelings. Let this be a lesson to you, they are beneath us. They can never understand our way. She'd never fully accept you for what you are and I will prove this to you." Masakazu easily gripped Hiei's arm and began to drag him back down the corridor that would take them to the cell. "She will eternally hate you Shadow. For you are a demon and you will take what is rightfully yours. Your instincts demand it, you will not be able to resist. You will see how unforgiving the one is that you've come to care for." Masakazu's grip tightened on Hiei as he continued to struggle. He winced when the claws sank into his flesh, ripping deeply into his arm. With a snarl he slammed Hiei into the wall once more and glared at him. "If you continue to fight me I will let you watch as I kill the girl."

Immediately Hiei stopped making any attempts at freeing himself. He knew that Masakazu would be true to his word, Kagome had to live. He just hoped that being so close to her wouldn't be the final straw for him. He felt helpless, unable to prevent what was happening to the both of them. He had learned of where Ryuji had gone and intuition told him that everything would be coming to an end very soon. So close, if only his body would have held out for a few more weeks. Masakazu had started dragging him once more down the hallway. Time seemed to both slow and speed by at the same time. On one hand he couldn't help but anticipate reaching the cell. His body ached terribly knowing what it wanted yet still being denied. On the other hand he knew he wouldn't be able to hold out long once they were together. He was damned either way he looked at it. Finally they stood before the door that held Kagome. He desired her on so many levels, both for her body and her heart. Would she forgive him for what he knew was going to happen? No matter how strong his resolve was, the control he maintained was fragile at best.

Masakazu watched as Hiei bowed his head when his hand went to the door. The resignation was clear to see in his very stance. "One day you may even thank me for this Shadow." Without waiting for a reply he pushed the door open noticing how the girl's attention had immediately snapped towards the creak signaling their entrance. The hopeful look on her face was immediately replaced with one of confusion and fear as he dragged Hiei towards her and then threw him into the cell with her.

Hiei managed to catch himself before he fell completely but remained on his knees with his gaze transfixed on the ground. He couldn't bring himself to look at her, he had been in the cell for less than a minute and already her scent was affecting him. He realized that she must have been bathed again recently, no doubt in preparation for what Masakazu wanted him to do. He heard the malicious laughter from Masakazu as the Crow made his way back to the door. "Have fun with her my little Shadow, she is after all a very tasty morsel."

Hiei didn't need to look up in order to see how Masakazu's words affected Kagome. The gasp that was torn from her lips made it more than obvious that he had hit a nerve. The metallic clang of the cell door closing was what drove the fact home that he was once more a prisoner in this room. The outside door signaled Masakazu's departure. He drew a ragged breath before standing up and walking over to the far corner of the room. Once there he sank down to the floor and drew his knees to his chest. It had long since gotten past the point of being painful and it was only going to get worse. He couldn't bear to look at Kagome, surely she was looking at him. He was afraid to meet her gaze, would he see fear in her eyes over what Masakazu had said? Revulsion for what was almost certain to come to pass?

Kagome was indeed staring at Hiei who had yet to look at her. Masakazu's words bothered her greatly, she could swear that he sounded as if he knew something that she did not. However she was not afraid, not after the Crow had left. She trusted Hiei not to hurt her, no matter what Masakazu had said. He wouldn't betray her like the words had insinuated. But for the life of her she couldn't figure out what was wrong with Hiei. She continued to sit on the blanket, waiting for him to make some move but he merely turned away from her. Her eyes caught the faint trembling of his body, if she hadn't have been paying attention she would have easily missed it. There was something seriously wrong. 'Perhaps something happened before he was brought in. That demon seemed to be awfully pleased with himself.' Kagome chewed her bottom lip as she studied him harder, looking for any sign on injuries. She was relieved when she found none, nothing obvious anyway. 'Maybe it was something he said.' Whatever it was she was determined to figure it out. She grabbed the blanket that was draped around her and pulled herself to her feet. Slowly she made her way over to him. She wasn't going to be put off any longer, he would give her the answers she wanted. 'I'm fine.' Would no longer suffice for her.

Hiei curled up further into himself as he heard her approach. Her sweet scent grew stronger further pushing against his control yet still he could not bring himself to look at her. He had to stop her somehow. "Kagome don't come any closer!" His voice was harsh with pain, he sounded horrible even to himself but if she came closer he knew he wouldn't be able to stop himself. He doubted that he would hurt her physically even if he lost control, it was the fact that he would destroy the trust they had built up that would kill him. He prayed that she would listen to his warning and he almost breathed a sigh of relief when he heard her stop.

"Hiei?" She stopped, uncertainty filling her. He had never spoken to her like that before and for a moment she wondered if maybe she should stay away from him. If he was warning her away there had to be a reason. She did not doubt that he cared for her, whatever reason he was trying to warn her off had to be important. But it was also obvious to her that he was suffering. His trembling had gotten worse the closer she had come. Every muscle in his body was tense and he looked ready to bolt any moment. 'This is stupid! I can't leave him to suffer like this, what kind of friend am I if I leave him alone to deal with whatever this is?' Her mind was made up, once more she began walking towards him. Once she reached him she knelt down beside him, her hands going to his bare arms. 'He's burning up!' Kagome almost pulled her hands away at the heat she felt radiating off of him, her first thought was that he was sick. She ignored the way he flinched away from her, instead concentrating on trying to get his attention. "Hiei look at me!"

He almost caved in to her demand but instead turned his head away from her. "You don't know what you ask. Go back to your spot while you still can." Somehow he just knew that she wasn't going to listen to him, it wasn't in her nature and he knew it. He clenched his jaw so hard he could hear his teeth grinding together. This was wrong! His body surged against his will with her nearness. She had to go and go now! "Kagome damn it do what I tell you!" He yanked his arms free of her hold hoping that would be enough but it wasn't. He gasped as he felt her hands sliding back along his arms before she pulled him into an embrace, her face buried against his neck. Hiei clenched his hands into fist, his claws slicing through the skin of his palms as he resisted wrapping his arms around her. He couldn't stop himself from burying his face in her hair, inhaling deeply. It helped to calm him, if only for a moment.

Kagome frowned as he stayed perfectly still in her arms. How many times had he been willing to hold her before and now he was acting like it would kill him if he touched her. Abruptly she pulled back from him and stared into his eyes, noticing how dark they had become. She was now face to face with him, seeing the pain reflecting back at her. Her hand came up and rested against his face, as she stared at him. Sweat now covered him as he remained trapped and unable to look away. "Hiei tell me what's wrong, I can't help you if you won't let me!"

Hiei growled low in his chest in response to her question, his rational side was beginning to fail him and the demanding tone that she was using was not helping him at all. In fact it was doing the exact opposite, provoking his instincts to the surface. She couldn't know what it was that she was doing to him, she wasn't a demon. A female that was chosen would never give herself willingly to someone who was not strong enough to protect her. The aggressive attitude she was displaying only heightened his own aggression, his instincts demanding he prove to her that he was strong enough to make a good mate, to provide for her and any children she would bear. Somewhere in the back of his mind he was surprised that she didn't flinch away from him, instead choosing lean closer. He dimly recognized when she forcefully called his name once more. His control snapped and he lunged forward pinning her to the ground beneath him.

Kagome stared up into his eyes, surprised by his sudden move. "Hiei?" Her voice was soft and unsure as she tried to figure out this sudden change in his behavior. As he stared down at her she waited, unsure of what was to come. She trembled slightly as his head came down to her neck. Gripping a handful of hair he pulled her head over to one side, exposing her throat. Kagome closed her eyes, she couldn't understand why it was that he was doing this but she was certain that sooner or later he would stop once he realized what was happening. Her eyes flew open when she felt his tongue caressing her neck. She had never felt anything quite like it before and while it wasn't unpleasant she wasn't at all certain she was ready for Hiei to touch her in such a fashion. That decision was enforced when she felt the proof of his need pressed firmly against her inner thigh. Her hands pressed against his chest firmly as she attempted to let him know that this had to stop. "Hiei!"

Hiei was too far gone to realize that Kagome was feeling uncomfortable in their current position. He pressed his lower body against hers showing her exactly what it was he wanted from her. When she began to resist it was exactly what was expected, it was all a part of the ritual they would go through. He had to prove to her that he was dominant. Once she accepted his position she would give herself willingly to him and it would solidify their relationship. His hand captured her wrists, pinning her hands up by her head. Her mouth opened but he didn't give her a chance to say anything as his lips claimed hers. His tongue slipped into her mouth easily, brushing against hers in a forceful caress. When she didn't respond he nipped at her lower lip, hoping to coax her into responding. When that failed to illicit a reaction from her he drew back for a moment.

Hiei had no real experience to go one and had he been in control he would have realized that he had scared her. However this was not the case, his body urged him to move onto the next stage. Perhaps then she would accept him and what this represented to the both of them. He grabbed the blanket that covered her lower body and flung it away from them, using his leg to spread her legs farther. He settled himself as comfortably as possible as he back to nip his way down her neck and chest. His fangs grazed the skin in a few places but one particularly rough bite caused her to cry out.

"Hiei stop!"

It was the pain he heard in her voice that caused him to snap back to himself, momentarily regaining his control. Quickly he pulled back from her and darted to the far end of the cell from her once more. He cursed himself for ever having touched her, surely she hated him now for what he had done. If she hadn't called out to him like that there was no telling when he would have stopped. Certainly not until after he had already violated her at least once. Though his control was back the pain had doubled and he couldn't stop the cry of pain that escaped his lips as he collapsed to the floor. The tremors were coming almost constantly and had he eaten anything earlier in the day he would have certainly purged his stomach by then.

Kagome sat up quickly and watched as he bolted from her. Blood trickled down her chest where he had nicked her only moments before. The pain was quickly fading away however and she watched with concern as he tried dragging himself over to the steel door. She knew that he couldn't escape, Masakazu had locked it on his way out. "Hiei damn it tell me what's wrong with you!" She couldn't just stand by and watch as he struggled for a way to escape. She ran and grabbed the blanket once more, covering herself as she cautiously made her way over to him. He had gone still once more when she reached him and she watched warily for any sign that he would try to resume their previous activities. "Hiei please, you're scaring me. What's happening to you?"

Hiei drew a shaky breath, he knew that he had to answer her. She deserved to know, he had almost raped her. He was as disgusting as Masakazu, regardless of the reasons why he had done it. She deserved an answer, not that he expected her to ever forgive him. "Mating cycle, it's time. Stay back, I can't control it for much longer." Already he was feeling his primitive side beginning to take over once more. He looked over to her when he heard her move, his eyes widened when he realized she had only come closer.

Kagome felt as if she had been kicked in the chest. 'Mating cycle?' Her mind raced along everything she had ever learned from Sango concerning the mating habits of the various demons they encountered. Her mind latched onto one thought, Sango's voice came through to her as if the Exterminator was sitting right next to her. 'Certain species go through periods of time where they revert to their more primal form and during this time they'll seek out an appropriate mate to reproduce with. It's not something they have any control over, if they are denied this basic need then it will consume them and eventually they will go insane with the pain either resulting in the rape of whoever is nearest or the death of the demon. Some have been driven to the point of suicide because their pain becomes too great to deal with.'

Her mind raced at the possibilities as everything fell into place for her. Did she go to him and give him what it was that he needed? Could she allow him to touch her like that to begin with? She swallowed hard as she weighed her options. It was obvious to her that he was fighting it as best as he could but she was not foolish enough to think that he would be able to hold on for much longer. 'If I don't and he can't control what he does he'll never forgive himself.' Her heart ached for him as another pained cry was torn from him, she couldn't stand by and watch him suffer like this. She had to help him somehow and the only way she knew to relieve his pain was to give herself to him. He might hate her for it later but she would worry about that afterwards. First they had to get through this to begin with.

Quickly before her courage left her she lost her nerve she gently turned his face towards her. She felt as if she were drowning in the pain and despair she saw in his eyes. There was another element in his expression, one of fear. She'd have to ask him later, what exactly it was that he feared. Hurting her, rejection, there were many possibilities but whatever it was she didn't like seeing it. She wasn't sure what to do to tell him that she understood. Certainly words wouldn't suffice in this instance, it would only cause him to fight harder. Taking a chance she leaned in and pressed her lips to his, hoping it would be enough to convince him that she would help him.

Hiei tried to pull back from her, certain that she had no idea what she was asking for by doing this. The pressure on his lips only followed however as his back hit the wall. She made no effort to deepen the kiss and for that he was thankful. It was hard enough on him as it was having her so close to him. He felt her hands sliding up his arms, the caress gentle and reassuring. He turned his head to the side and closed his eyes. She couldn't mean this, not after everything that she had been through. "You don't have to do this. Just go back over there. I'll be fine." Even as he spoke the words he knew that she wouldn't believe them. His thoughts were only confirmed when she crawled in between in legs and leaned against his chest.

"Let me help you." Kagome's voice was soft though she tried to sound determined. If he heard any hesitation in her voice she knew that he would refuse what she was attempting to do. Not giving him the opportunity to deny her, Kagome slid her hands up underneath his shirt feeling the tensing of his body. She ignored the growling coming from him and continued her exploration. It was comforting to her as well, reassuring her that this was indeed Hiei that would be the one to take her. She knew without a doubt he would not hurt her, not the same way that Masakazu had. She felt him shifting slightly before she was abruptly picked up off of the floor and carried back to her makeshift bed. She stared into his eyes, looking for any trace that he was still in control. There was still conflict there but it was being devoured by the overwhelming need that consumed him.

Hiei stared down hungrily at her, spread out on the blanket. It was no longer a matter of being able to fight himself, she had offered herself to him and his dominant instincts delighted in the knowledge that his chosen mate had accepted him. He covered he slender form with his own and nuzzled against her throat, reassuring himself that she was indeed there. The feel of her body against his own made him crave taking her but now that she was his it was not as critical as it had been. He could afford to take a moment or two allowing himself to thoroughly cover her with his scent. Hastily he sat up and pulled the shirt up over his head, throwing it away from the both of them. He ignored the slight pain that came from the small cuts on his back when they reopened, blood once more trickling down his back.

Kagome watched, slightly apprehensive as his hands moved to his waistband. It only took moments and the clasp was undone allowing the fabric to slide down over his hips. She couldn't help but look at his groin, wondering how painful it was likely to be for her. A blush stained her cheeks as she tore her gaze away from it, hoping that Hiei either hadn't noticed or wouldn't remember once this was over. His bare skin brushed against hers as he kicked his pants off, nearly burning her with the intensity. Once more he covered her with his body allowing her to tentatively wrap her arms loosely around his waist. Anxiously she waited to see what it was that he would do to her.

It was easy for him to tell that she was nervous, even in the aroused state he was in. He needed to get her to relax some or his entry would be painful. The whites of his eyes had long since begun to bleed red as his inner blood beast pushed to the front taking control. His lips sought her neck once more, nipping her gently and then soothing the bites with his tongue. He ached to bury himself inside of her but he resisted that urge for the time being, concentrating on the taste of her. His hand began to work it's way down her stomach as he began to lap at one of her nipples. A pleased growl escaped as he heard Kagome gasp. Whether or not she was expecting it, her body was taking slight pleasure in the things that he was doing to her.

Kagome closed her eyes trying to sort through her feelings. Surely she had never felt anything like this before and even though there was a definite roughness to the way Hiei was touching her she found that she wasn't scared. By now with the Crow she would have been bleeding from multiple places, instead Hiei seemed to be doing as much as he possibly could under the conditions to make sure that she enjoyed herself as well. Cautiously she brought her hands up into his hair, unsure if she wanted to arch up into his touch or to remain still. Her body acted on it's own, pressing up into his mouth seeking to establish firmer contact. She whimpered when she felt his fingers begin to probe her depths. It was uncomfortable and she had to keep herself from pulling away from him, knowing that this was something that he needed. If she couldn't accept his fingers touching her then it was only going to be worse when he entered her.

Carefully he withdrew his fingers, she was going to need to be a lot wetter in order to accommodate him without any pain. This was unexpected to the part of him that was in control, she had accepted him but she wasn't aroused enough to complete the ritual. This was completely unacceptable and needed to be rectified. Giving her nipple one final tug with his teeth he continued his journey down her stomach enjoying the shivers he evoked when he touched a sensitive area. He had almost reached his goal when she tensed once more, attempting to close her legs. He growled softly in reassurance while he kept them apart, his fingers rubbing her upper thighs in an effort to get her to relax again. A metallic scent hit his nose and quickly he realized that she was still branded as Masakazu's, the ring she had been marked with was still present. His feral growl filled the room as he stared at the offensive piece of metal. Kagome was his and he would be damned if the mark of another male would remain upon her. "You are mine!" Possessiveness filled him as he contemplated the easiest way to remove it from the woman underneath him.

Shame had filled her when Kagome realized why he had been moving down her body. She had been violated repeatedly and marked as property. Even now the mark remained and it was for this reason alone she had attempted to stop Hiei from continuing in his attention on her lower body. Shock filled her at his words, he still wanted her even knowing what that ring meant. 'Does he really want me? Not just because of lust but does he really want me in that way?' His voice was so possessive she had to believe what he had said, he might change his mind later but for now she would be his. She looked down at his face when he growled again and she felt a tugging sensation. It wasn't exactly painful but it was uncomfortable. She realized with a start the he had taken the golden ring into his mouth, careful not to grab any part of her with it. She watched his eyes flash as he bit down, effectively cutting through the thin metal. He released it and with another gentle tug it was pulled free of her flesh and tossed to the floor. Kagome blinked back the tears that threatened to come, not because it had hurt but because of what his actions had symbolized to her. For once, she felt as if there was one less stain on her soul with the removal of that hated mark.

Now that the hated piece of metal was gone Hiei took the opportunity to taste her, his tongue slipping in between her folds. The faint taste of blood hit his tongue, no doubt from the removal of the ring. His hold tightened on her hips as he sucked her tiny jewel into his mouth forcing the blood to flow a bit more. Her taste was exquisite and his blood beast purred in satisfaction. She was perfect, she was his. Hiei exerted his dominance over her as he continued to lap at her, knowing that her arousal was slowly growing. Soft pants were beginning to come from her as she moved beneath him and he knew that he wouldn't be able to hold back much longer. He gave her a few more licks, ensuring that she was wet enough for his entry before moving back up her body. His hand went to the head of his cock which had long since begun to drip with anticipation of what was to come. Quickly he spread the moisture over his taut sex before rubbing himself against her lower lips preparing her for his entry.

As he slid into her he fought not to thrust roughly into her, his body nearly trembling with the strain. Even with the preparations he had taken she was unbelievably tight and to go any faster would hurt her. His eyes flew open when he heard her sob beneath him. His blood beast snarled as he fought for control, needing to somehow reassure her that he was not going to hurt her. Sweat began to roll down the sides of his face as he struggled for dominance, his more primitive side screaming with rage. Gradually he was able to win control of his body, enough so that he could calm her down before any further damage was done. He absolutely loathed himself and what he had done. He never expected her forgiveness but he had to try. "Kagome? It's alright. Look at me, Kagome."

Slowly she did as he said, hoping that the memories of Masakazu and the others would disappear. She couldn't help it, as soon as he began to fill her they came flooding back, tormenting her with what they had done. Blue eyes met crimson as she stared into his face. He was so tormented as he held still above her, the conflict was evident. His body trembled, his skin glistened with sweat. But the worst was the suffering that she could hear in his voice. This was not Masakazu, the Crow would not have cared in the least about her pain. She had to realize how she was hurting him with her involuntary rejection. Kagome forced herself to relax, allowing him to slide into her fully. "I'm fine, don't worry about me." Her voice was soft and reassuring. While she still fought to keep away the memories of the others she did her best to convince him that she was okay with what was happening.

When he still didn't look convinced, she slid one of her hands around the back of his neck and pulled him down towards her. She poured everything that she felt for him into the kiss. All the love and worry that she had felt since he had left the cell, she wanted him to know exactly how much she cared for him. It took several long moments for him to respond to her but eventually she felt his tongue slid against hers and take a more dominant role in the kiss. Her hands went to his back and pulled him closer to her as she encouraged him to take what he needed from her. She couldn't help the gasp that came out when his hips jerked roughly against her before he almost completely withdrew from her. One of his hands went into her hair once again pulling her head over to the side as his teeth clamped down into her neck. It took all of his control just to keep himself from sinking his teeth into her, making her his mate. That would have to come at a later time. Over and over he thrust into her wet heat, losing himself to the sensations that pulled at him. Roughly he brought one of her legs up around his waist, allowing himself to penetrate her even further. He growled in approval as he felt her wrap her other leg around him. Her whimpers drove him faster, the need for release beginning to overwhelm him once more.

Kagome knew he was approaching his climax as his thrusts became more irregular, she tightened her hold on him as she felt his body begin to tremble as he emptied his seed into her. Finally he stilled over her, keeping his hold on her body even after she released her grip. After several long moments she felt him ease his mouth off of her neck, wincing at the sharp pain she felt. She was certain that she would have a bruise there before long but she didn't blame him for it. She knew what a bite there would have meant if he had completed it but why did he hold off? She wouldn't have objected if he had marked her, there had to be some reason why. Perhaps he didn't really want her like that and she was merely convenient.

As he withdrew from her body she noticed that he wouldn't look at her. The small glimpse she got of his expression was one of shame. "Hiei?" Her voice was shaky, uncertain of what he would think of her now. When he started to pull away from her, she sat up, resting her hand on his arm. She almost recoiled with the way he flinched when she touched him. Tears began to make there way down her cheeks at the thought that he couldn't stand her. After all, she had been the one to convince him to stop fighting.

Hiei stopped when he smelled the tears begin to fall. 'I've hurt her even without meaning to.' Slowly he turned to face her, knowing he would have to face her anger sooner or later. Exhaustion was written in every line of his body, he desperately needed to rest. It had taken everything out of him to fight for so long and then to finally give in to the desires of his blood beast. Yet he knew he could not, not yet anyway. "I shouldn't have touched you like that. I had no right." He waited for her to condemn him, to scream at him to stay away from her yet it never came. Only the silence answered him as he waited. Unable to take it anymore he turned from her and walked over to the far corner. He wouldn't touch her again without her permission. He'd rather die first.

Kagome watched him go, his words slowly sinking in. Was he really so concerned over what she thought of him? As he sank to the floor, the picture of utter dejection, she found herself walking over to him. His eyes found hers as she approached, resignation weighing heavily within them. She knew that she had to fix this somehow, before their relationship was permanently damaged. She fell to her knees in front of him, uncaring about the way the stone floor tore at her skin. "Hiei I don't hate you if that's what you think." Uncertainty was evident in his expression, so instead of continuing on with words she crawled up next to him burying her face in his chest. She felt his arms wrap around her almost hesitantly as she snuggled deeper into his embrace. No more words were needed for the moment, they would come later. For now they would take comfort in each other as they fell into a deep slumber.

Author's Note: This was probably the hardest lemon I have EVER written. So please, if you enjoyed it please take the time to review and let me know that it met your expectations. Special thanks to my Beta Mary![Author ID1: at Mon Oct 3 17:38:00 2005 ]