InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ The Puppet Master ❯ Chapter 4

Title: The Puppet Master

Author: Bondage Fetish

Rating: NC-17

Warnings: Lemons, language, violence and character death.

Theme: Dangerous Liaisons

Disclaimer: If I owned either Inuyasha or Yu Yu Hakusho, I'd actually be rewriting both series instead of having to content myself with fan fiction of it. And no, I make no money off of this story.

 

Written for The Deadliest Sin's contest.

 

Chapter Four

 

Hiei sighed in irritation while he looked at the stack of paperwork laying on the desk that he'd been sitting at for the past week. In the end, he should have realized that Mukuro was only going to be put off for so long before she tired of not getting her answers. However, he wasn't about to give in and tell the woman anything just yet, not until he had his own answers.

 

Perhaps that was what infuriated him the most at the moment. He was still largely in the dark and thus far, Kurama hadn't sent word that he'd learned anything at all. Until that happened, he refused to speak to anyone concerning what had happened back in the Ningenkai and that meant he was going to continue being stuck at this gods be damned desk.

 

While Mukuro had the ability to rip what little he knew from his mind, he knew that she wouldn't; not when she wanted him to come to her of his own volition. To do so would be admitting that she didn't have as much of his trust, nor as much control over him as she'd have liked. Thus, it had turned into a game where they both waited to see who would be the first to give.

 

'I'm a warrior, not a secretary, dammit. Any fool could be doing this, leaving me free to be back out on patrol.' Unfortunately, all the cursing in the world was not going to make that stack of papers disappear, and now he felt just the slightest bit of sympathy for Koenma. While he'd only been at it for a week now, the demigod had been at it for centuries. 'It's a wonder he isn't half out of his mind yet.'

 

It was oh so tempting just to set the entire stack ablaze and be done with it, but that wouldn't resolve the over all issue. In the end, he'd still have to do the paperwork and knowing his luck, he'd be forced to type them up all again. Not to mention, he'd be forced to deal with Mukuro looming over his shoulder and informing him that all he needed to do in order to get out of it was spill his guts. Occasionally it was tempting to do just that, but now he was being stubborn strictly out of principle. He refused to be the one who lost this contest of wills.

 

But that still didn't resolve the issue that he wanted free of this little task. He wanted to be out in the sunlight, free of the constricting walls of the fortress. Even if his freedom was short lived, it was still better than nothing. It was hard to believe at one point that he'd wondered what it would be like to have a place that he belonged, that he wouldn't have to spend the day roaming the country side looking for a place to stay. Yet that was what he was almost wishing for at the moment and he was beginning to wonder why he stayed.

 

As always though, the answer came to him quickly. He stayed because of the security that the position offered. Here he didn't have to worry about the possibility of someone attempting to slit his throat in the dark of night. Nor did he have to wonder where his next meal would come from. It was a trade off of sorts, part of his freedom in return for what could be considered a life of luxury to most demons. Still, it didn't mean he had to appreciate the fact that he was tied to this desk.

 

With a growl he pushed himself out of the chair, and stalked over to the window. The small breeze the caressed his skin did little to calm the burning desire in him and he found himself wondering just how long it would take for anyone to notice he was missing. And even when they did, what possible punishment could Mukuro give him? Demotion? The idea had him snorting in derision. There was no way in hell that she'd do that, simply because there no one in her ranks that could best him.

 

Dragging him down to the training arena was a distinct possibility, but the woman was well aware that he gave as good as he got. The idea of pain meant absolutely nothing to him and it certainly wasn't something that would deter him. In the end, the choice of whether to stay or whether to go was completely up to him, and he wasn't going to allow what might happen upon his return to influence his choice. With that thought in mind, he shoved the window further open and disappeared, leaving the papers to scatter along the floor with the breeze that signaled his passing.

 

Once outside he began to run, knowing that even if anyone were to see him they wouldn't be able to stop him. He took a deep breath, relishing the fresh air that surrounded him. He hit the tree line and lept onto a sturdy branch, letting his momentum carry him further and further away from the fortress. At the moment he didn't care where he was heading, he just enjoyed the fact that he was outside again and away from the burdens that had been dropped into his lap.

 

It left him free to just clear his mind and stop thinking about the things that had been troubling him as of late, and just exist for once. There were no spirits, no rogue demons, no haunting dreams or anything else to demand his attention and drive him to distraction. A smile touched his face and he pushed himself faster towards the mountains, knowing that sooner or later he'd find something to attract him and release some of the frustration he'd been keeping pent up over the past few weeks.

 

Yet deep in the back of his mind, Kagome was influencing his movements. Slowly but steadily she was pulling him towards her final resting place. Perhaps it was just the need for company of a sort, or maybe it was because she wanted him to become intrigued enough to learn more about her, but either way, the result was still the same.

 

Nor was it hard to keep him from realizing just where he was heading, especially since he was so enamored with the fact that he was doing what it was that he wanted to do, instead of blindly following orders. Sooner or later though, she knew that he'd figure it out and then it would be interesting to see just what choice he made.

 

There was every possibility that he would stop and turn around, determined not to let the problem get the better of him. Then again, she knew that the apparition was curious by nature and just the fact that he'd returned to the spot where they'd first come in contact with each other might be enough to keep him there.

 

All she could do was wait and see just what his choice was when the time came. In the meantime, she allowed herself to relish in the excitement that coursed through his mind. It had been so long since she'd been able to connect with someone on any true level, discounting the few times that she had manipulated his mind. Now, the emotion was strictly his own and she couldn't say that she wasn't enjoying it.

 

However, it wasn't all that long before the apparition realized where he was going and slowed, much to her consternation. To her surprise though, he didn't completely stop and passed through the barrier with ease. His thoughts were confused and no small part irritated however, and she began to wonder if bringing him so close was a mistake. Yet was it so wrong to want some sort of companionship? If he could come to accept what she was and what she'd been through, what would be the harm in letting him know that she was there, with him in spirit if not in body?

 

There was... a feeling of anticipation building deep within him and it made Hiei wonder just where it was coming from. It had been tempting to turn around when he'd passed through the barrier, but something drove him on and he found himself needing to understand just what was happening. It was almost as if he was expected to return to the place where he'd killed the demon, yet at the same time something was different.

 

The scowl on his face deepened when the thought crossed his mind that this might be the result of another stray incursion. Just because he hadn't detected any foreign presence didn't mean that there wasn't one there and he'd already established that this was a prime area for such a thing. That was the only reason that he didn't turn around and return to the Makai.

 

'Yet another reason I shouldn't be on desk duty. Maybe I should leave this demon to its own devices for a few hours. Once she sees how those fools slipped up on border patrol, she'd have no reason to keep me on desk detail.' However, even as the thought crossed his mind, he knew that it'd be likely to land him in even more hot water if he did that. Not only would Mukuro be furious that he hadn't acted when he was there, but Koenma would be on his ass again and he'd probably find himself confined to the Ningenkai for an indefinite period of time.

 

That in itself was a fate worse than death and it was what ultimately forced him to uncover the jagan. Yet as soon as the implant had a chance to focus, he realized that he was alone, with the exception of that strange holy energy that he'd encountered before. However, it didn't seem to be a threat at the moment, merely... urging him on. 'This becomes tiring. What is it that you want with me?'

 

Of course there wasn't an answer, at least not right away. The feeling merely intensified with each step that he took and he wondered if he was finally going to get some answers. With the way his luck was running, however, he doubted it; not when things tended to become difficult whenever he wanted something.

 

Eventually Hiei found himself on a grassy knoll and a breeze caressing his face, when the feeling of being led suddenly vanished. The area didn't seem to be anything out of the ordinary, at least not that he could see but sometimes looks could be deceiving. Briefly he closed his eyes and extended his senses, hoping to catch upon the smallest details which he might have overlooked.

 

It was then that he heard the voice of what had to be a young woman, not that far away and he quickly looked in that direction. Somehow it wouldn't surprise him if he'd somehow managed to run across a group of campers or something. Yet to both his relief and irritation, he was still alone. But with that awareness came the knowledge that the voices had disappeared. 'Strange. Its as if they want me to use the Jagan to find them.'

 

Well if that was the case, he wasn't about to deny the request. His eyes slid closed again and he concentrated on his surroundings. As expected, the disembodied voices reached his ears a second time, and this time he listened.

 

“I guess... I just don't understand. How did you know that you could stop his transformation this time? You could have been killed, Kagome.”

 

It wasn't the concern that had laced the woman's voice that Hiei frowning, but the name that had been mentioned. The fact that it was that of the missing girl's couldn't be considered a coincidence, not by a long shot. More to the point though, he found himself wondering what had been meant by stopping a transformation. Had the girl been involved with demons at some point?

 

“I didn't, Sango. But what other choice did I have? If we had stood there and done nothing... what would have happened? Inuyasha couldn't have stopped himself from changing and with the Tetsusaiga's power increase, it could no longer contain his demon blood. I guess... I had to take the chance. If I couldn't pull him back, we were all going to die anyway.”

 

As quickly as the answer had come to him, it had only brought more questions. Clearly this Inuyasha hadn't been a full blooded demon, so that explained what she'd meant by transformation. But there had to be more to it. To his knowledge, once the process had begun, there was no stopping it.

 

“I don't know if I would have been able to do the same. No matter what happens you're always there, placing your life in his hands and he hasn't let you down yet. I have to wonder, do you ever stop to think about yourself? Or wonder what will happen if you're wrong. One of these days you might not be enough to pull him back. Will you leave him then to mourn your death and blame himself for what happened?”

 

Those questions at least, Hiei could understand. Long ago he'd learned that the only one he could trust was himself and he didn't see that changing; at least not completely. Had that been the cause of the girl's death? At this point, it seemed likely.

 

“Sometimes. But would it be any better to pull away from him? He's been maligned his entire life and still is to a certain extent. How could I not stay by his side when he needs me the most? I promised him that I'd always be there, and if it means my death in the end...”

 

The girl's voice trailed off and Hiei found himself wanting to roll his eyes. The girl's wish to stand beside the hanyou no matter what was foolish, admirable, but foolish. It was difficult to believe that there would be a human so selfless, so giving, that they'd actually consider self sacrifice for the sake of a friend. There had only been one instance where he'd ever come across a being like that, demon or human and that had been the Detective, and he couldn't pretend to act like he knew what went on in that fool's head. Of course, half the time Yusuke didn't think at all, whereas it sounded like this girl had dwelt on the repercussions of her decision quite often.

 

“I can't pretend that I understand how you think, Kagome, not after everything that he's put you through.”

 

That question gave Hiei pause, was the girl a masochist as well? He snorted softly, she had to be if she kept calling him to this place. He certainly wasn't anyone's friend and he wasn't going out of his way to help her. But then he had to wonder, why was he still there?

 

“You mean after everything we put each other through. I'm not going to lie, Sango, a lot of what happened between us has been my fault, because I couldn't understand his point of view.”

 

In that instance, Hiei wondered if the world was about to end or if he was imagining things. He'd always believed that it would be a cold day in hell before any woman admitted they were wrong about anything, and here was one shouldering at least half the blame for... what, a failing relationship?

 

“Don't tell me you're going to blame yourself for his indecisiveness. If you'd put your foot down regarding Kikyo...”

 

Silently Hiei filed away the new name, intending on looking into it later. It sounded more and more like the hanyou had strung the girl along and he wondered if Kagome was mentally deficient. Not only was she proclaiming herself as part of the problem, but she'd also let the person she swore to stand by bring another female into the relationship.

 

“You know, I once wished that Kikyo would have stayed dead, just so I would have had Inuyasha to myself but then I realized how awful it was to think that way. Neither of us had a choice in what happened, and for a long time I blamed Inuyasha for being unable to choose. But how could I stay angry at him? She died for Inuyasha and then to come back from the dead, believing that he'd betrayed her? He still loved her even after what had happened between them and those feelings weren't going to die just because I'd entered his life.”

 

Slowly the pieces were falling in place, but not fast enough for Hiei's tastes at all. Briefly he wondered whether or not Koenma had a hand in this. There was only a couple of ways to come back from the dead, discounting the methods that Kurama and Yusuke had used. But beyond that, it gave him greater insight into Kagome's thoughts, even if he didn't particularly agree with them. When fighting for something you wanted, you gave it your all or you walked away. It was pointless to half ass something like that, and spoke of someone who would put other people's feelings above their own.

 

“So, you were prepared to lead half a life then, missing pieces of both your soul and your heart; just so she could continue to walk the Earth, not alive yet not quite dead either? I... couldn't do it. No matter how much I love Miroku, if the same had happened to me, I would have walked away.”

 

And just when Hiei had been certain that Koenma had been a part of this whole convoluted mess, the conclusion was destroyed with a few simple words. The fact that Kagome would be missing part of her heart was easily explained, especially with how humans tended to let their emotions rule their lives. However, that didn't account for missing part of her soul, especially if it allowed the other woman to live again. 'What the hell am I missing here, is it even possible to take a piece of a person's soul and live again?'

 

The idea didn't sit well with him in the least; how many enemies could come back from the dead to haunt him? He could only hope that the answers would be forthcoming as the girl's continued to talk. However, his luck seemed to have run out when the voices drifted away and then vanished completely, leaving him alone. All that remained was the feeling of melancholy that surrounded him. The only thing he could surmise was that the girl wanted her story told, and was hoping that he was the one that would listen. Regardless, the conversation had left him with some information to look into; the names they'd spoken had been committed to memory and he wasn't about to forget them.

 

Now the question became; was there a point to him remaining in this area? Something told him that the spirit, for that's what he was certain it was, wouldn't be forthcoming with any further information. Nothing was ever easy and it seemed that the girl was limited in the methods of communication that she could use. If he was ever going to get to the bottom of this, it was going to be because he put forth some effort to do so.

 

Silently he considered what options remained to him. Common sense told him that the wisest course of action would be to seek Kurama out. Doing so would give him the opportunity to question the kitsune on what he'd learned. However, to do so meant a significant detour into the Ningenkai and if his disappearance hadn't been noticed yet, that would virtually guarantee it. Again he pondered the consequences of his actions, thinking of the possible repercussions of seeking Kurama out. 'Does it really matter? Mukuro will take her pound of flesh in payment regardless, another couple of hours won't make a damned bit of difference. '

 

With that thought in mind, he allowed the jagan to flare its energy and begin seeking the Kitsune's energy signature out. At this time of the day, there was no telling just where the redhead was and he had no desire to traverse the Ningenkai hunting the areas he believed Kurama was most likely to be.

 

The distance between the locations meant that it took a few minutes longer than it normally would, but eventually he zeroed in on his teammate. However, the small feeling of satisfaction he got faded when he realized just where Kurama was and he swore, trying to remember what day it was in the Ningenkai. Time ran differently between the worlds and his mood darkened when he realized that it was the weekend. 'Dammit, that insufferable habit he has of spending his free time with that human woman is becoming a pain in my ass.'

 

The revelation forced him to reconsider his decision to go talk to Kurama. While it would be easy enough to slip into the Hatanaka house, it wouldn't necessarily be as easy for Kurama to slip away. The conversation was likely to take quite a bit of time, and the redhead's disappearance would be noticed. Nor would Kurama excuse himself just for this because of the invariable questions that would come upon his return.

 

The situation had Hiei gritting his teeth in irritation. There were only two options left, speaking to the man telepathically or meeting him when he wasn't preoccupied with entertaining his mother. Neither possibility sat well with him given the level of impatience he had already been dealing with. But there was no other option, not if he wanted his answers. Taking a deep breath, he mentally prodded the redhead. 'Kurama.'

 

'Hiei, is there a problem?'

 

A brief flash of surprise filtered across Hiei's senses before being followed up by slight wariness and he was left wondering what had prompted such a reaction. 'No. I'm assuming since you have time to spend with your mother, you've had a chance to look into the matter that we discussed.'

 

'A bit. I'm afraid now isn't a good time to speak on it, however.'

 

The answer had Hiei's eyes narrowing in suspicion. He knew well enough that the kitsune was quite capable of both speaking to him and handling whatever foolish activity that he was now engaged in. 'And when will be a good time? Don't tell me you haven't even bothered to look into it.'

 

'Trust me, Hiei, I've spent quite a bit of time on this matter, but I'm not finished with my research. It's unwise to speculate on the situation without having all the facts. Give me a bit more time.'

 

Silently he considered the request, although he knew that he really didn't have much of a choice in the matter. Kurama would talk only when he was ready to do so, and there wasn't much he could do about it. Sure, he could rip the information from the man's memory, but to do so would create... complications that he'd prefer not to deal with. 'How long?'

 

'A week perhaps, certainly no longer. I just need to confirm some information and for that I need to go to the Reikai. Searching through their libraries will take some time.'

 

That little piece of information gave Hiei pause, and he wondered just what it was that Kurama needed to check out in the Reikai. Most likely it had to do with the people who had been killed in the fire, but beyond that, he couldn't begin to speculate. In this instance he knew that he would be forced to let the kitsune do what he did best, gather information in whatever means he deemed necessary. 'Fine, when you're finished come and find me. I'll be at the fortress until further notice.'

 

'The fortress? Has something happened to remove you from border patrol?'

 

The question had Hiei rolling his eyes; there was no way in hell he was going to tell the man that he'd been saddled with desk duty. So instead he became evasive and asked a question of his own. 'I've been reassigned for the time being. What do you know about resurrection?'

 

'As in humans rising from the dead? A bit, why. Have you come across something I should look into?'

 

A slow smile crossed Hiei's face when the redhead redirected his attention. Of course, he had no intentions of giving away everything that he knew, especially when he only wanted information on the people who had lived at the shrine. But Kurama was one of the best sources of information that he knew and if anyone would know of how the dead could walk the Earth again, it would be him. 'Have you ever heard of an instance where a soul is stolen and used to reanimate a body?'

 

The silence that stretched out between them made Hiei wonder if he'd actually managed to surprise Kurama with a question he couldn't answer.

 

'It shouldn't be possible, at least, not without the use of black magic. To do so, however, the soul would have to be the same which inhabited the original body. Reincarnation takes time, so the likelihood that the corpse would be in any shape to use is unlikely. Why?'

 

For a moment, Hiei didn't answer. What Kurama had said made sense; the Reikai moved at it's own pace and reincarnation took years, sometimes decades. It was highly unlikely that in this instance Koenma would have moved fast enough to reincarnate Kikyo's soul. So either Kurama was wrong in his assessment of this being a case of reincarnation, or there were other factors that they didn't yet know about. Either way, he wasn't about to give up the game that easily. The two women had spoke of the woman as if she hadn't changed in the slightest, which meant somehow her body had been preserved, or recreated. 'Is there a way to preserve the corpse for something like that?'

 

'Possible? Perhaps, however the sheer amount of planning that would be required is unlikely. Especially when you factor in the person doing so would not know when the spirit would return to Earth. They could be waiting centuries, and then there's no guarantee they would find the soul.'

 

That much Hiei knew to be true. How many years had Kurama slipped under the radar before he was discovered? In fact, the only reason that his secret had been revealed was because of the jagan, and a human was not likely to have one at their disposal to look for a particular soul. Again it seemed like he was at a standstill. Unless there was a method of time traveling that they were unaware of, things just didn't add up. There was no way in hell that it made sense for Kagome and this other woman to have been together, not if Kikyo was truly dead. There were still major parts of the puzzle missing and until they were revealed... 'I see. Keep me informed on what you discover. I'm returning to the Makai.'

 

Before Kurama could question what he was even doing in the Ningenkai, Hiei broke the connection and turned to leave. Slowly he walked from the area, stopping only to take one last look at the area he'd been led to. What he saw caused his eyes to widen in surprise. Standing there on the hill was the faint image of a dark haired woman with sad blue eyes, staring after him with a look of... wistfulness?

 

“Kagome?” he murmured, unsure if he was actually seeing the girl or if it was only a trick of the light and his wishful thinking. Cautiously he walked closer, determined to discover whether or not he was imagining things. Long before he reached her though, she vanished, leaving no trace that she'd ever been there in the first place. “Son of a bitch.”

 

There was no denying that there was something familiar about the girl, even if he couldn't quite put his finger on just what it was. Had he seen her before when he had been confined to the Ningenkai? It was entirely possible, he supposed, although he wondered just why she would have stood out to him so well that he remembered her after all this time. Blue eyes weren't all that common, not in the Ningenkai, but they weren't unheard of either. One way or another, it would come to him and probably at the most unexpected of times. Perhaps, if she believed that she had some sort of connection with him, that would explain why she'd come to him in the first place.

 

The possibilities continued to plague him on his return trip through the Makai. He was no longer concerned with what might be waiting on him, not when there were so many other things on his mind. More than anything else he wanted to know where he'd seen her before since it wasn't like him to forget a face so easily. But beyond that, theft of her soul troubled him, although it wasn't out of any particular concern for her.

 

Was she still missing the piece that Kikyo had taken? The possibility only left him with more questions and it was beginning to give him a headache. He'd long ago resigned himself to the fact that she was the one in control of the power that seemed to inhabit the area. It was possible that it came from an artifact, but somehow he doubted it. The Reikai would never leave something like that unclaimed, so he could only surmise that it was in fact the girl. But if she was still missing part of her soul, shouldn't that negate part of the power she controlled?

 

Silently he pondered over what that could mean, assuming that it was even possible for something like that to happen. More than once he'd gotten the feeling that the power could destroy him if it wanted, just like it had done with the others and to accomplish something of that nature was no small feat. If this girl wasn't in complete possession of her soul, and thus not at full power, what kind of destruction would she be capable of if she was reunited with that missing piece?

 

As much as he hated to admit it, he was forced to the conclusion that she could easily be a match for any of the demons that he knew; Mukuro, Yomi, Yusuke, or even Enki might not be a match for her. The fact that the spirit worked with holy energy, the antithesis to their own demonic energy was a lethal threat to any one of them. Even with the speed and strength at their disposal, none of them would be able to touch the girl in her current form and to do so would be almost certain death.

 

Of course, if the girl still had a physical form, things were unlikely to remain so one sided. In his brief encounters with people that controlled holy power, he knew that they tended to focus heavily on long range weapons and their attacks couldn't hope to match the speed of a demon unless they'd gone through extensive training as Sensui had done. The best case scenario that could be hoped for was that the girl was in full possession of her soul now, and at full strength in her powers because he didn't want to contemplate what it would mean otherwise.

 

As soon as her status was revealed to the rulers of the Makai, they'd likely demand that something be done about it since she was so close to the border. Of course, the Reikai couldn't be counted on to move quickly enough for any of their tastes, assuming Koenma could remove her spirit in the first place. Hauntings and possessions were never easy to deal with in the first place, and the brat was likely to put it off until he had no other choice. 'And then the fool will probably reassemble the team to deal with her, even though this falls under his jurisdiction.' Regardless, he didn't feel like dying just because Koenma didn't want to take the time out to resolve the problem himself.

 

Still, it was bound to come out sooner or later and Hiei was cursing the fact that he'd been drawn into the mess in the first place. He wouldn't be able to put Mukuro off forever, not when her curiosity was aroused and when Kurama made an appearance, it was only going to get worse. He could only hope that if he managed to downplay the situation enough, she'd lose interest. Once he had his own answers, he could decide whether or not it was necessary to inform her or anyone else of the situation. 'It's more likely that a rainbow is going to come shooting out of my ass with Yusuke standing there proclaiming he's found a pot of gold. I'd have more luck finding out what's keeping her there and breaking it's hold. If she's no longer there, it's no longer my concern.'

 

Actually succeeding in that plan of attack, however, was going to be far harder than just thinking about it. Finding just what was tying the girl there was proving to be hard enough, much less eliminating it altogether. Sighing heavily, he walked through the entrance of the fortress. It was pointless to try and return through the window, since if his disappearance had been noticed, they'd know that he hadn't been in the office the entire time. No, he'd take his chances with being seen coming through the front door and if anyone had anything to say about it, they could go fuck themselves. He wasn't in the mood to explain himself, least of all to people who meant absolutely nothing to him.

 

“Your aura is unsettled. I take it that your run did nothing to calm your irritation,” Mukuro remarked from the shadows. She'd know the moment that he'd made a break for it, but had made no move to stop him because she'd hoped that it would resolve whatever was bothering him. While in some ways he seemed calmer, it was only on the surface. Something was troubling him, and it ran far deeper now than before he had left.

 

“As if coming back here to more paperwork would make anyone happy. Maybe if you'd put me back out on the border where I belong...” he trailed off, gazing at the woman expectantly. If she'd give in, it would be far easier for him to do as he wished, without worrying about who was looking over his shoulder.

 

Curiously Mukuro stared at him. Whatever secret he had hidden, he clearly didn't want it revealed. That in itself wasn't surprising, but the fact that he didn't even want her to know what it was seemed to be a bit... unusual, especially after how easily he'd given up all the other secrets he'd kept hidden, including the one concerning his sister. “If you wish to be back on the front lines so badly, all you need to do is speak. Tell me what is troubling you, and it can be resolved.”

 

However, Hiei wasn't about to be swayed so easily, not when there was the potential for disaster. Yet, perhaps she would be of some information. Mukuro had learned much in her quest for power and she wasn't one to withhold information from him. “It is of no importance, Mukuro. However, I'm curious, have you ever run across a credible tale of time travel?”

 

“No,” Mukuro said after a moment's hesitation. She had no idea what brought this question on, but it was one worth answering if it led him to give her further information, “However, I'm not one to discount the possibility completely. Realms between the dimensions are commonplace and even I have the ability to rip through space, as you've seen. Creating a portal to rip through time is merely a step up from that. Why?”

 

Yet Hiei wasn't about to give her a definite answer to that question, so instead, he evaded as he'd done with Kurama, “Hn, curiosity. Altering the past would be simple if such a method were to exist.”

 

“There are things you would change, even knowing that the life that you have now would no longer be the same?” Mukuro asked and leaned against the wall. Neither of their pasts were ideal, but the end result, in her opinion had been worth it. She was one of the most powerful demons in the Makai now, to change that would be denying what she'd become. Would the apparition before her make the same choice, if given the chance?

 

For a moment Hiei was unable to answer and he was forced to seriously consider the question. Much had happened in his life, things that he'd long believed that he would have given anything to change. But if he had, would he still have the lust for power that had driven him his entire life? Somehow, he believed that he would. His need for bloodshed hadn't manifested just because he'd been tossed off the island. No, he'd felt those first stirrings even before Rui had carried him to the edge of the island and if he'd been capable, he would have indulged in that desire even before she'd dropped him. Silently he turned and began walking away, but stopped long enough to give her his answer, “Yes, I would.”

 

~A few days later~

 

Had anyone ever asked Kagome about her wants and desires, the list would have been easy for her to admit to. Peace, the safety of her family, the ability to see her friends any time she would like; all of these things would have been mentioned. Not once would the touch of a man had made it on that list, but now... something had been awakened inside of her, and she found that extinguishing that desire was impossible.

 

Many times she'd thought to take advantage of the bond that she'd created with the apparition, but she always held back. Guilt was a feeling that she lived with daily, and she was reluctant to add to it. The balance within the jewel had been stable since the first time she'd taken energy from him, so what possible reason could she use to justify going to him again. Loneliness?

 

A sigh rippled throughout her being, such as it was. Loneliness was something that she'd believed she'd come to accept, but things had changed. Hiei's presence, even if he wasn't aware of it, was a near constant in her life. Some days he was more distant than others, but it was an irrefutable fact. He was now a part of her, and she found herself craving more.

 

The few hours that she'd had with him had been addicting, and it was the closest thing to physical contact that she could ever hope to attain. Every touch, every caress seemed as real as if she were there and she couldn't get enough of him, but she couldn't call it love. Truthfully, she had no idea what label would apply. Lust seemed far too simple a term, especially when her emotions began to entwine with that desire.

 

Simply put, she craved his company and the brief moment that she'd managed to show herself on that hill, she began to wonder if there could be something more between them. True, she was dead in every sense of the word, but she still felt, and her current existence was no longer enough. 'Oh, Midoriko, what do I do?'

 

Of course there was no answer, not that she really expected one. The ancient Miko's soul was still present, but Kagome had been forced to render it dormant, or as close to that state as it could get. To do less was to risk everything and she just couldn't take that chance. But it did nothing to alleviate her need for someone to talk to.

 

But there was an added factor to contend with, something she wouldn't have really considered when she'd first started this dance with him. And that was the fact that thoughts of her was constantly lingering in his mind. Before it had been thoughts of battle, bloodshed, or events of his past, but that had changed and she couldn't say that it made her unhappy. In a way, it was nice to have someone so interested in her after all this time, even if it was just a desire to know what had happened to her.

 

In some small way, it felt as if he was reaching out to her, and the way that he'd spoken her name when she'd appeared before him had shaken her. Not with fear, but something stronger and it had left her uncertain of what to do. She wanted him to want to know her better, to find out if there could be something more than just this one sided relationship that they had going.

 

In the end, Kagome was so focused on the problem at hand that she didn't realize at first when she began to sink deeper and deeper into his mind, and by the time she became aware, it was too late. He'd fallen asleep while she'd been thinking and somehow, the jewel had acted on her desire, plunging her into his dream.

 

Curiously she looked around, taking in the dimly lit room that she'd found herself in. It certainly wasn't something that she'd expect him to come up with on his own and she found herself wondering if perhaps this was somehow influenced by her own thoughts. As she looked around, that seemed to be a very real possibility. She didn't need to look down to know that she was once again wearing miko robes, something that she'd never thought she'd have to wear again.

 

“So strange,” she murmured to herself. So far there wasn't a trace of the apparition anywhere, but she couldn't deny that this was indeed a dream she'd been pulled into. Briefly she wondered whether or not she should just leave since it was well within her capability, yet at the same time she couldn't deny that she still wanted to see him again. Could she take the chance and reveal her presence to him?

 

The slightest of smiles touched her lips then, when she remembered just what had happened during their last real meeting. While she couldn't just walk up to him and announce that she was the girl he was investigating, there was nothing stopping her from getting closer to him, no reason not to satisfy that craving he had inspired in her.

 

Slowly she walked through the darkness, towards the light that filtered in through the next room. Her fingertips slid easily against the smooth stone wall and she paused in the doorway. If she didn't know better, she'd say that she'd found herself in a temple. The candle light created shadows that danced on the walls, highlighting the intricate carvings that adorned the stone and she found herself drawn further into the room.

 

Any doubts that she might have had as to what this place was vanished when her gaze settled on the stone alter in the center of the room. What was curious though was the deep red cloth that covered it as if there was a special ceremony prepared. Venturing closer, it didn't take her long to notice the fierce black dragon that adorned the cloth and somehow she knew that this was a representation of the feared beast that rode upon the apparition's arm.

 

“So where is your master?” she queried beneath her breath and ran her fingers lightly across the design. Now she began to wonder if this setting was her doing at all. Never in her life had she been to a place such as this, but perhaps he had. As if in acknowledgment of her question, a black mist began to rise from the cloth and she stared when the beast began to materialize before her. Yet she had no fear in the face of this new danger and bravely she stood her ground.

 

Her body went rigid when the beast approached and its muzzle grazed the side of her neck. Its hot breath warmed her skin, yet she said nothing while it performed its inspection.

 

'So powerful.'

 

The growled words made her shudder, although she didn't back away. Most likely it sensed the power of the jewel, since it coursed through every fiber of her being. Yet such power was beyond the creature's reach, no matter how it might desire to possess it. When the beast reared it's head back, she briefly wondered if it would attack, but it only stared at her, its red eyes fixing her with an unblinking stare. “You're the one who called me here, are you not? What is it that you want of me?”

 

'What all creatures such as us desire, freedom.'

 

The answer caught Kagome off guard and after a moment, she shook her head sadly, “I'm afraid that that is something I cannot give you. Nor can I free myself from the trap I was destined for, from even before I took my first breath.”

 

'A convenient lie that you tell yourself in order to justify your existence.'

 

“What do you mean?” Kagome asked, her brows furrowing in confusion. If there had been a way for her to escape the jewel, to live again, she would have done so long ago.

 

'Foolish human, do not pretend to not know that is what you do each time merge your mind with his. It is an escape, a way to experience things that have been denied to you since your death.'

 

Slowly Kagome blinked, unsure of what the dragon was getting at. In a way, that was exactly what she was doing, yet there was a difference between that and true freedom. In no way shape or form did she consider their situations similar. A frown formed on her face when she gave him her answer, “Perhaps in a fashion. However, it's still nothing more than a large, gilded cage that gives the illusion of freedom, nothing more. Moreover, do you truly consider yourself a slave to Hiei's desires? Is the lure of his power so intoxicating that you cannot resist his call?”

 

'Do not speak of things you cannot hope to understand. Many have tried to become my master, and only one has succeeded but the cost has been high to the both of us. Perhaps even beyond a mortal's comprehension, yet I believe you of all beings can understand.'

 

“Again I ask what it is that you desire of me. I see no collar around your throat, nor any chains to fetter your movements. What possible freedom can I give you?” Kagome asked, staring into the dragon's eyes. She couldn't begin to imagine what price had been exacted from the beast when it gave it's allegiance to the apparition, nor was she certain that she even wanted to know. Yet, it had called her here for a reason and she knew that if she were to turn it away, it would only return each time she ventured deeper into Hiei's unconscious mind until it got what it wanted.

 

'Freedom. Control. Each are things that you possess, each are things that you can grant to me.'

 

Silently Kagome waited for it to continue. There was little that she couldn't do with the power of the jewel, if she saw a need to use it. Again the dragon came closer but instead of remaining still this time, Kagome reached out and laid a hand upon its great muzzle. The sheer amount of anger that radiated from the beast was enough to take her breath away and it was then that she realized that there was a deep seated hatred buried within, boiling just beneath the surface.

 

'You feel it as well, even if you refuse to acknowledge it. You long to be free of the confines you have found yourself within, just as I long to be free of the invisible chains that have been thrust upon my soul.'

 

“I won't help you kill him,” Kagome said firmly and removed her hand. She knew very well just how Hiei had come into possession of the dragon, and she knew it had to grate on the beast's nerves to know that it had been beat by someone who only took the chance because they had nothing else to lose.

 

'Kill him? Do you presume me to be so foolish as to believe that you would do something so unwise, guardian of the Shikon?'

 

“How did you know?” Kagome asked. She was more than a little curious as to how the creature had come across the information, especially when the apparition didn't even have the knowledge.

 

'Not everyone has forgotten about the power of the jewel, least of all those who have once touched it. More so, there is no ignoring the mark it has left upon your soul. No, his death, while appealing, is not an option that you'd entertain. I can be content with control, just as you are.'

 

“You can't possibly think I have control over him,” Kagome said with a snort and crossed her arms. Unless the apparition was asleep, her influence was limited at best. Without having him close at hand, there was little that she could do to influence him.

 

'Only because you lack the finesse that comes with experience, miko. You lack the will to see the bigger picture, or to exert the control that you're capable of.'

 

“Control such as what you speak of means little to me. It is enough that I take what I need from him, anything more than that is pointless,” Kagome said, brushing the dragon's words aside. Somehow, she could see where the conversation was going and she wasn't altogether comfortable with it. If it was control that the beast wanted, what would happen if it actually managed to obtain it?

 

'Another pretty lie to deny the selfish nature you try to hide.'

 

“Selfish? I created the bond to save lives. I see nothing selfish about that,” Kagome countered hotly. She knew that everyone had a certain amount of darkness in their hearts and she was more than willing to accept that she did as well. But this was not one of those times. Selfish would have been allowing the balance in the jewel to go to hell. Selfish would have been to allow the destruction of thousands of innocent people. What she had done was far from selfish and she'd be damned if the dragon was going to convince her otherwise.

 

'And yet, the demons that you would have killed are those who would become corrupt by the power they seek to attain. The same demons who bring about nothing but death and destruction. Your refusal to act could be costing innocent lives even now, yet you did it to keep your conscience clean. And now, that selfishness has created a desire that only one demon can satisfy. In light of all that, you would deny me this one paltry request?'

 

“And if I were to grant your request, what then? How many innocents would die just so that you could unleash the anger you hold within?” Kagome asked, her voice lowering to a near whisper. She couldn't deny the dragon's words, for they weren't untrue. Those very reasons had been what she'd used to justify creating the bond with Hiei in the first place. In the end, she'd never been able to determine which was the lesser of the two evils.

 

'Do you wish to know the truth? Or would you rather another pretty lie to satisfy your guilty conscience? I have no interest in lessening your guilt; my only concern is gaining what I desire. Only death will sever the bond between myself and the wielder of the jagan, but until then I wish to have what you do; the ability to experience life beyond the prison in which you now stand in.'

 

“What you ask for... is not something that can be given easily,” Kagome said quietly. She wasn't even sure that it was possible to forge a bond such as the one that the dragon spoke of, not when the beast wasn't even something that existed on the mortal plane. It was as much of a spirit as she was, perhaps even more so.

 

'A trivial concern. I offer power in exchange for freedom. Merge your soul with mine, and I will gift you with that which you desire; the ability to maintain the jewel and the knowledge to wield it as you wish.'

 

Kagome had to admit, the idea was a tempting one. There was no denying that the dragon was demonic in nature, even if it came from another realm. To draw its essence into her soul would provide her with all the demonic energy she could ever need and it would be at her disposal to use as she saw fit. Yet, she knew there was at least one downside to this; once the merger was made, there was no going back. At least, not unless she destroyed the dragon completely.

 

However, something told her that wouldn't be necessary. When she'd touched the beast, it was true that she'd been met with a deep seated desire to kill and an almost irrepressible anger. Yet at the same time, there was still an honor that was more than a match for the apparition she'd bonded herself to. “What do we do?”

 

'Give yourself over to me.'

 

The low growl was whispered against the skin of her neck, and she closed her eyes when she was surrounded by an intense heat. When the first touch of demonic energy rippled across her skin, she was forced to take hold of her own powers of purification to prevent them from lashing out. Moments later her breath was taken away when that same energy slammed into her, invading the very center of her being. Memories flooded her mind, along with the knowledge that had been promised and when the burning sensation faded away, she opened her eyes to discover that she was once again alone. Yet she could feel that dark presence lurking in the corner of her mind, watching, waiting to see what would happen next.

 

Strangely enough, she no longer knew what to do. She was sure that Hiei was somewhere in the temple, even though she hadn't seen him as of yet and she wondered whether or not he had any idea of the conversation that had just taken place. Slowly she shook her head, no, if nothing else the dragon would have made sure that their conversation had remained just between them. The better question was whether or not the apparition could feel the difference in the beast that rode his arm. Even though it had merged with her, he was still its master and he would bear its mark until his death.

 

For the moment, his mind remained quiet, betraying no knowledge of the new development but that didn't mean that things wouldn't change upon his awakening. This had definitely complicated things, but she couldn't bring herself to regret what she'd done, at least not yet.

 

“What the hell are you doing here?”

 

Quickly Kagome spun around to face the owner of that voice, stunned that he'd managed to come upon her so quickly. Now the choice had been taken away from her as to whether or not to approach him, and she had to think fast, “I should be asking you the same thing, demon.”

 

The statement barely registered in his mind when he realized just who was standing in front of him. No longer was the girl wearing an expression of sadness; now she was looking defiant and every bit the priestess that her clothing would suggest. “You. You've got a lot of explaining to do, woman.”

 

“I have no idea what you're talking about,” Kagome said, trying to give him the best look of confusion that she could muster. The last thing that she wanted was for him to realize that while this was a dream, that she was really there. She couldn't let that happen, at least not until she was certain that revealing the bond was the right thing to do.

 

Hiei narrowed his eyes at her, trying to figure out just what kind of game she was playing. Seeing her once was a fluke, but a second time? He doubted that was a coincidence. One way or another, he was going to get his answers. “Cut the crap, Kagome. Why have you come to me?”

 

“I've done nothing of the sort. You came in here and snuck up on me! And how to do you know my name?” she asked angrily, desperately holding onto the act that would keep her from having to explain anything to him. The thought of just disappearing from his dream didn't even cross her mind, not when she still desired his company in spite of the current circumstances.

 

That particular answer was not the one that he wanted to hear, and he took a menacing step towards her. To his surprise though, she backed away with a look of fear in her eyes and that planted the seed of doubt in his mind. Why would a woman that wielded the ultimate power over demons back away? It didn't make sense, yet that's exactly what was happening. “If you didn't come here for me, why are you here?”

 

“I... was called by this place,” Kagome said, backing up another step until her back hit the stone alter. There was a look in his eyes that under most circumstances would have frightened most people, but she couldn't deny that she found it... alluring. “What did you come here for?”

 

“It's not important,” Hiei said, brushing the question aside. Something about the situation still seemed off, but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. One thing was certain though, it wasn't a coincidence that he'd found himself in a holy place while dreaming of her. He still wasn't altogether convinced that this wasn't her either. Within moments he had her pinned against the side of the alter, his hands trapping her in place. “There's something about you...”

 

“I know that you didn't come here to pray,” Kagome murmured, dropping the frightened act altogether. He was far too near; too close to not react to. Even now she could feel the warmth radiating from his body, reminding her of the last time they were together and deep within her mind, she felt the dragon stir. Now she knew of the control that she possessed over the apparition, even though it was a double edged blade. The same desire she invoked in him cut deeply through her as well.

 

“What would you know about why I came here?” Hiei bit out, staring the woman in the eyes. The look of fear that had been there only moments before was gone, and now there was a smoldering fire lurking there, hinting at the power she had at her fingertips. It was alluring to say the least and he found himself moving closer.

 

“I know that few things matter to you,” Kagome said, her voice dropping to a whisper, “Power... control... and desire. The question becomes, which of them does this temple represent to you? Or is it that you're here to satisfy all three?Tell me what it is that you desire.” As she spoke, her hands slid along the bare expanse of his arms and up to his shoulders and when she saw the look in his eyes, she knew that she had him.

 

For a moment there was only silence, but then he began to laugh, filling the empty room with its menacing sound. The woman was good and he had to wonder if she knew exactly what the temple was. Even he had been uncertain, the first time he'd visited this place, but it hadn't taken long to figure it out. “The better question is, why are you here, miko? Are you here to play the sacrificial virgin, ready to give yourself over to the Dragon of the Darkness Flame?”

 

“But you and the dragon are one and the same now, are you not? Power calls to power, thus, why I stand here before you. You know what you desire and I have to wonder if you're waiting for an engraved invitation to take it,” she replied easily, not in the least intimidated by the apparition's words. The look of surprise on his face was all that she needed to close the distance between them. But his shock didn't last for long and the moment her lips touched his, she found herself sprawled on her back.

 

The kiss that they shared was hot and needy, searing in its intensity and spurring the apparition to take greater liberties with her body. Ruthlessly he grabbed her by the wrists and pinned them down to the stone she laid upon before pulling away slightly. Now more than ever he was convinced that she was a witch who took pleasure in provoking him. Even now she made a delectable sight, sprawled out before him as she was with her chest heaving, but she wasn't trying to escape his grasp.

 

The smoldering look in her eyes seemed to intensify for a moment, but he was quickly distracted by the black dragon who suddenly chose to appear. Quickly he sat back, waiting to see what was about to transpire. While it was true that he was the beast's master, this was its domain and his control here was rather limited. To his surprise however, it didn't seem to be interested in the girl's destruction. Instead, it wound its way around her body, it's flames burning away the clothing that she wore to reveal the unblemished skin beneath. Nor was the miko attempting to drive the beast away, but instead she seemed to accommodate its efforts by arching her back to allow it access to any part of her body that it wanted.

 

“This dream just keeps getting better and better,” he said, growling in approval when the tatters of clothing fell away. Now she laid there nude before him like an offering to the Gods, wrapped up in the creature that only he had managed to tame. Licking his lips, he placed his hands of the soft skin of her inner thighs and pressed her legs apart, exposing her most intimate of areas to his view.

 

“I see you're not as innocent as you seem,” he said and ran a finger over the slick flesh that he'd found. She was already wet and ready to be taken, proving that the little minx had indeed come here with something other than prayer in mind. Silently he waited for a reaction to his statement, but it soon became apparent that she wasn't going to give him one. It was curious to say the least; shouldn't his dream woman act in accordance to the traditional role that a miko would play?

 

In the end he decided that it didn't matter one way or the other, as long as he got what he wanted. Silently he increased the pressure on her sensitive flesh, relishing in the whimper that spilled from her lips. It was clear what she wanted, even if she wasn't going to come right out and say it yet. But he wanted to hear her beg, to hear her plead for something that only he could give her.

 

However, Kagome knew exactly what it was that the apparition wanted and she was made from far sterner stuff than to be reduced to a quivering pile of need; now it was a contest of wills to see just who would break first. Her legs shifted open in further invitation and a sly smirk crossed her face when she saw him inhale deeply, no doubt taking in the scent of her arousal.

 

Slowly his fingers continued their torturous movements, gliding sensuously along her heated flesh while his other hand worked with determination on the sash of his pants, pulling at the knot that held it closed. The instant it came away, his pants fell to the stone floor with a muffled thump, and he stepped out of them; now that they were both nude the real fun could begin.. “Say it. Tell me you want me to fuck you.”

 

“Make me want it and maybe I will,” she said, fixing him with a hard look. A feral growl resonated deep within her chest when he began running his cock along her slick folds, applying just enough pressure to tease her but not nearly enough to allow him to slip inside.

 

The sound made him pause ever so briefly, and Kagome's smirk widened; he couldn't know that it was the dragon's influence over her body and that the beast was getting impatient. Clearly it wanted complete control over the situation and it was displeased that the apparition wasn't cooperating.

 

However, as far as Hiei was aware the dragon was only participating towards one goal; giving him what he desired. So he ignored it, concentrating on the way her feminine flesh clung to his cock and tried pulling him in deeper. The slight touch on his back was enough to alert him to the fact that the dragon was shifting in position, but he was unprepared for the moment the sinuous body tightened around him.

 

The force in which Kagome was impaled had her hissing in satisfaction and clutching at the edges of the alter she laid upon. This was what she wanted, what she needed, but refused to beg for and it wouldn't be long before the apparition was under her complete control. Even now she could see his muscles tensing, fighting the hold that the dragon held on him so that he could take her with abandon. “Perhaps it's you who should be begging me, demon.”

 

“Like hell,” Hiei growled, willing the dragon to free him. He'd thought he succeeded when he felt the beast moving, but all too soon he realized just how wrong he was. Cautiously he eyed the girl when the creature pulled him away from her, watching as she hopped off the stone alter. “Just what the hell do you think you're doing?”

 

“Turning the tables on you, what does it look like?” Kagome asked and gave him a teasing smile, knowing that the loss of control had to be annoying the hell out of him. Patiently she waited while the dragon hauled it's master onto the alter and positioned him on his back. Only then did she rejoin him, straddling his waist seductively. “Now, this isn't so bad, is it?”

 

As much as he wanted to refute that question, Hiei had to admit that the view he was receiving was rather nice. Her pert breasts were well within reach, the hard nipples just begging to be played with, but at the moment he was unable to move his arms. Roughly he tugged at his bonds, but the dragon merely tightened it's hold on his wrists. “Release me, woman.”

 

“Ah ah,” Kagome said in reprimand, “Now where would be the fun in that. Just lay there for a moment, you'll get what you want... eventually.” Knowing that the apparition wasn't going anywhere, she began to undulate her hips, teasing him with the slightest of touches against his turgid flesh.

 

“How does it feel, knowing that something you want is being held just out of your reach?' she asked while running her hands over the ample swell of her breasts. Heatedly she watched his reaction while her fingers tugged lightly on her nipples, and she knew by the way his fingers twitched that he longed to be the one playing with them.

 

“Teasing wench,” he growled, continuing his struggle against the dragon that held him. However, he stopped the moment that she grasped his cock and began slowly lowering herself down on it. He groaned as he watched inch by inch of it disappearing into that warm, wet heat and all thoughts of gaining his freedom left.

 

The pace she was setting was almost excruciatingly slow, yet sinful in the amount of pleasure it was giving the both of them. She leaned back, bracing her hands on thighs and accentuating the curve of her back as she rode him, giving herself over to the whims of the dragon deep within her. She could hear it's growl of satisfaction in her ear, spurring her on to move faster, harder against him. The wet sounds of their flesh meeting filled the air around them and soon, the apparition was thrusting his hips upward, driving deeply into her soft flesh.

 

Moments later the dragon freed his hands and Hiei grabbed the girl by her hips, rolling them over so that he had the freedom to do as he'd wanted from the start. Her soft pants were like music to his ears, her whimpers of pleasure spurred him on to thrust deeper. He knew that it wouldn't be long before she reached her peak and he couldn't wait to feel her milking his cock.

 

Frantically Kagome clutched at his back, pulling him so close that his sweat dampened skin slid against her own, searing her with its heat. The added friction was just too much and her body spasmed, her nails gouging deep furrows into his back. The slight pain only seemed to spur him on though, and she cried out when he bit into her shoulder, drinking deeply of the blood that welled up from the wound. With a cry she came, riding out the waves of pleasure that coursed through her body.

 

The scent and taste of her blood could easily become an addiction for him, but more so, the way she moved, the way she felt was something he wanted more of. He wanted her at his beck and call, to cater to his every desire. Even now he could see her on her knees, after he'd tamed her, asking if there was any thing she could do to satisfy his every need. A smirk crossed his face when she elevated her energy just enough that it sparked across his skin, teasing him with the knowledge of the power she could unleash; power that for the moment was under his control.

 

With a growl he hauled her up and turned her until she was on her hands and knees, her supple backside just begging for attention. However, this time he was far too hot, too needy to even consider taking the time to prepare her for being fucked in such a fashion. So instead he grabbed her hips and pulled her back, impaling her on his cock. Eager for his touch, she drove back against him while crying out his name.

 

To hear the need in her voice was the final straw. His own release slammed into him, yet he continued to drive into her, drawing it out for as long as he could. Only once it was over did he still, leaning over until he was braced over the miko with one hand while the other remained on her hip. Desperately he fought to catch his breath while maintaining his hold on the girl. There was no way in hell she was going to get away from him, not when there was so much more that he longed to do to her.

 

Yet, against his wishes she seemed to disappear from beneath him and when he looked up again, she was standing there next to him. Once again the dragon had wound itself around her body and its head rested upon her shoulder, almost as if it was taunting him by touching the woman he still desired.

 

“I hope you don't think we're finished here,” he said lowly, pushing himself up until he was sitting back on his knees. The teasing smile that she'd worn earlier was back and he had to wonder just what she thought she was going to be able to do to gain the advantage again. He wouldn't make the mistake of underestimating the way her own desire had seemed to influence the dragon.

 

“But we are, at least for now,” Kagome replied and tossed her damp hair over her shoulder. As much as she'd enjoy another round with her lover, she knew that at least this time it wasn't to be. Soon enough he'd be yanked from his sleep whether he wanted to or not, but he needn't worry, it wouldn't be long before she came to him again.

 

“I'm afraid that you're about to have company,” she said while slowly walking towards him. Once she reached him, she reached out and gently cupped his cheek, “If I may, Hiei... I know that your mind is in constant turmoil and it's often difficult for you to sleep. Just remember that I'm always here for you, if only you'd come to me.” With that she disappeared from his sight before he could ask her the questions that she knew lingered in his mind. She'd give him time to think on her words and make his decision. If he truly desired to accept what she offered, she would know.