Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Fire Within ❯ Beauty from Pain ( Chapter 7 )

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

By: Hawaiianhoney2030

*~The Fire Within~*

Disclaimer: I do NOT own Inuyasha or Yu Yu Hakusho in any way shape or form… though I wish I did ^_^

Let's talk telepathy:

*Youko*

`Hiei'

-Kurama-

`thoughts'

Chapter 7: Beauty from Pain

Kurama stared at the miko in confusion. “Excuse me?”

“Don't play dumb with me; I can sense Youko's trapped within your body. Release him now and I won't harm you.” Kagome threatened, continuing to glare at the red head that kidnapped her kitsune friend's soul.

Kurama repressed his laughter as he shook his head. “Kagome, I haven't stolen or captured Youko's soul. If I were to be precise, Youko sort of stole my body.”

Now confused, Kagome shook her head. “What are you talking about?”

*Why don't you let me explain to her? She can be quite stubborn*

Kurama sighed and nodded as he allowed Youko to take control. Kagome watched in surprise as the red head before her slowly changed into the oh so familiar silver fox from her past. Within moments, Kagome was staring straight into the golden eyes of the kitsune that she was going to mate. She felt tears sting her eyes as she merely stood where she was, unsure if she was imagining things. Was Youko really standing before her or was this her mind playing cruel tricks on her?

“Kagome… I've missed you so much.” Youko murmured, taking a step toward her.

Before she could stop herself, Kagome threw her arms around Youko without hesitation. She hugged him tightly, hoping that this wasn't a dream and that he would disappear once she woke up. The kitsune smiled softly and wrapped his arms around the sobbing miko. He held her close and waited for her tears to stop before pulling away from her enough to look into her tearful eyes.

“Kagome, I understand that this is confusing but you have to believe Kurama. 200 years after you disappeared, I was killed. My soul traveled the living world until I found a woman in child. In order to survive, I planted my soul within the body of the unborn child. My plan was to regain my strength in the child's body but I soon found that my soul had bound with Kurama's.”

“So wait… I remember Sango telling me something like this. Since both your souls connected, Kurama is now an avatar?” Kagome questioned, refusing to release Youko from her grasp.

“Correct. Kurama holds dominate control over our body but I can take over when Kurama passes control over to me or if I have enough energy to take over.” Youko explained.

Kagome closed her eyes to keep the headache she felt from coming. She placed her hand on her neck and felt Youko's mark still on her skin. “Youko… your mark is still on my neck so does that mean you still have a claim on me?”

“Of course but now it's a claim from both Kurama and I.” Youko smirked and pulled her close against his chest. “You know… I really have missed you love.”

Kagome blushed as she draped her arms over his shoulders. “Don't change the subject Youko. Explain what you mean about the claim being both yours and Kurama's.”

Youko sighed. “Kurama and I share one body so if you accept me as your mate, Kurama will also be your mate.”

Kagome groaned as she pulled away from Youko completely. “Alright… I think I can handle that. So you really are here? This isn't some crazy dream?”

Youko chuckled. “This is no dream. Now would you please explain to me what you were doing in that building full of demons with a gun?”

Kagome's gaze dropped to the ground as she turned away from Youko and began walking back toward the large building that was their home. Before she could get a mere foot away from where she was recently standing, a clawed hand wrapped around her wrist and held her in place.

“Kagome, what happened to you?”

The miko turned to Youko in anger as she yanked her arm away from him. “What happened to me? I lost my son! That's what happened to me! Because I wasn't strong enough to protect him, Naraku killed my kit! He relied on me to keep him safe and I couldn't even do that after all Sango's training-”

“Kagome, Shippo's death was not your fault! There was nothing you or any of us could have done to save him in time.” Youko said, trying to calm her. If Kagome honestly blamed Shippo's death on herself completely then she was probably in a great depression. She needed to understand that the kit's death wasn't because she was too weak to save him.

“If I would have gotten to him faster then the miasma wouldn't have killed him. Shippo is dead because of me…” she muttered, tears stinging at her eyes once more.

“How many times do I have to tell you that it wasn't your fault? If we hadn't taken that break, Shippo could have been saved. It was our fault, not yours. You traveled through the night to find him while we rested. If we had all searched with you that night Shippo could be alive right now but thanks to you, we were able to find him a lot faster.”

“You and Hiei got there before everyone else. Hiei tried his best to get to Shippo but I wasn't strong enough to keep Naraku distracted. Shippo's death was my fault…” she said quietly before turning quickly and running off into the forest, away from the house. Youko groaned and was about to chase after her when Hiei appeared at him side and stopped him.

“Leave her be. She needs time to mourned. Obviously she merely locked away her memories of the past instead of moving on from them.” the hybrid stated before making his way back to the house. “She'll return when she's ready.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~ *~*~*~*

Kagome continued running aimlessly through the trees. She didn't know where she was going but honestly, she didn't care. Her past had come back with a vengeance and she wasn't prepared to deal with it yet. Not only did Hiei reappear into her life but also Youko, her potential mate from the past. The kitsune had brought back memories of her precious kit and now there was nothing she could do to stop the tears.

The lights go out all around me
One last candle to keep out the night
And then the darkness surrounds me
I know I'malive but i feel like I'vedied
And all that's left is to accept that it's over
My dreams ran like sand through the fists that i made
I try to keep warm but i just grow colder
I feel like I'mslipping away

Kagome fell to her knees as her memories hit her like a speeding bus. The final battle flashed through her mind like a movie in slow motion. She watched once again as her innocent little kit was killed and thrown against the tree. If only she were stronger… faster… she could have saved him. She could have killed all of those weak demons and made her way to Naraku in time before the miasma took his life. She was stronger now… but it was too late to save Shippo now.

After all this has passed, i still will remain
After I've cried my last, there'll be beauty from pain
Though it won't be today,
Someday I'll hope again
And there'll be beauty from pain
You will bring beauty from my pain

The little miko clenched her hands into fists as she cried out her sorrows. She pressed her forehead against the ground and allowed the soil to absorb her tears. She barely even noticed as it began to pour rain… as if the sky was mourning along with her. Her mind drifted to all the good times she and Shippo shared during her journey's through feudal Japan.

My whole world is the pain inside me
The best i can do is just get through the day
When life before is only a memory
I'll wonder why God lets me walk through this place
And though i can't understand why this happened
I know that i will when i look back someday
And see how you've brought beauty from ashes
And made me as gold purified through these flames

She reflected on how happy that joyous kit would get when she brought him candy from her time. She remembered how hyper he would get if she gave him too much chocolate… and how tired he would be after he let out all that energy. She recalled how peaceful he slept as she rested beside him and ran her fingers through his soft fur.

The rain continued to pound down over her. She hardly noticed the slight shiver that her body began to make from the cold rainfall but still, she didn't care. Her clothes were completely soaked but she didn't notice, flashbacks of Shippo were flooding her mind. She couldn't get the cute little kit's smile out of her mind and it only served to make her tears pour harder as she felt her heart clench in pain.

Here i am, at the end of me
Tryin to hold to what i can't see
I forgot how to hope
This night's been so long
I cling to Your promise
There will be a dawn

Kagome took a deep breath as she lifted her forehead from the now soaked ground. She wiped away her tear even though it did nothing to dry her face as it continued to rain. Maybe it wasn't such a great idea to just lock away her memories of the past in order to continue living. Perhaps she should have dealt with the pain… if she had then maybe the pain wouldn't have been so horribly excruciating at this point.

She knew that even if she had gotten over the past before, she still would have cried when she saw Hiei and Youko but that was to be expected. She thought she would never see them again. Kagome took one more deep breath before pushing herself to her feet. Yes she missed Shippo and blamed herself for his death but now Youko and Hiei were here… She wasn't going to ruin their lives by bringing them depression from her pain.

Clearing her mind but being sure not to lock away her past like she had before, Kagome slowly made her way back to the house that she felt her friends in. Now that she wasn't completely engulfed by her sadness, she began to feel the cold shivering that took over her drenched body. Her uniform was tight against her skin and now she wished that she had changed out of the clothes she wore for missions. Not to mention the outfit left not only her legs bare but also her entire midsection.

Just as she entered the clearing, Yusuke opened the door. He noticed her soaked and shaking and rushed back into the house before running out with a towel. He quickly wrapped the towel around her body before draping his arm around her shoulders and leading her inside. Kagome pulled the towel close to her body as she tried to control her shaking. Yusuke pulled her to the bathroom without a word and sat her down in the closed toilet while he started a hot shower.

“What were you doing walking around in the cold rain?! You're gunna get sick!” Yusuke scolded as he rolled his eyes and removed her towel.

“Sorry…” she muttered as she stood up and waited for him to leave so she could shower. “Thank you Yusuke.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~

Yusuke shook his head as he entered the living room to join the others. “So is it just me or is she very quiet?”

“Youko says she never used to be… but the final battle changed her exceptionally.” Kurama murmured.

“What exactly happened that changed her so much?” Kuwabara asked.

“Her kit was killed.” Hiei informed.

“And she blames herself for the kit's death huh? Damn… is there anything we can do for her?” Yusuke asked, wanting to comfort the poor miko.

“You can not talk about me behind my back, that's a good start.” Kagome piped up, glaring at the four males in the living room. Everyone's attention whipped to the doorway and they stared at the miko still wet and only in a towel.

“I apologize Kagome but Koenma ordered that we keep you here. Yusuke, Hiei and I share this house so we figured it was only fair that he know what's going on.” Kurama tried to reason.

“If he was curious about me then all he had to do was ask.” Kagome snapped before disappearing up the stairs.

Hiei sighed and followed after the miko silently as Kuwabara and Yusuke turned to Kurama. “So… what does Youko have to say about that?”

~*~*~*~*~

Hiei found Kagome sitting on the counter in the bathroom still only wearing her towel. Her clothes were still wet from the rain and since she didn't have any clothes there, she had nothing else to wear. Making his way to his room, Hiei grabbed one of his shirts before heading to Yusuke's room to get a pair of basketball shorts. Returning to the bathroom, the hybrid was slightly disturbed to find that Kagome hadn't moved an inch and was still staring at the ground blankly.

“Put these on.” he said quietly. Kagome slowly lifted her tearful eyes to Hiei's crimson ones. Without a word, she sniffled softly and took the clothes. She pushed herself off the sink and was about to push Hiei out of the bathroom when he sighed and pulled her into a tight hug. She broke down once more and buried her face in his shirt, soaking it with her tears. Kagome just didn't know what to do. She missed Hiei and Youko so much but every time she looked at them, she saw Shippo.

“It hurts so much Hiei…” she sobbed.

“Kagome, do you honestly think Shippo would want to see you like this?”

Kagome froze for a moment as she stared at the fabric of Hiei's shirt with wide eyes. He was right… Shippo would be so angry with her if he saw her like this… he always wanted her to be happy because if made him happy. Kagome looked up at Hiei as she wiped away her tears. “I'm only hurting Shippo more by being like this aren't I?”

Hiei sighed. “You're allowed to mourn his death Kagome but you're letting your sadness darken your purity. Look what it did to you powers?”

“I'm… I'm sorry.” she sniffled before pushing Hiei out of the bathroom and swiftly shutting the door. Hiei was right. If Shippo were here, he would comfort her until she was happy again. Shippo was happy whenever she was so she was only keeping Shippo from his happiness by remaining sad over his death. Shippo always just wanted her to be happy. Whenever Inuyasha hurt her, he would always get angry at the hanyou.

`I'm not sure if he told you or not but Shippo was overjoyed that Youko and I were considering you as our mate. He was always so worried that you would never find anyone better than the mutt.'

Hiei's voice drifted along her mind and she knew the hybrid was probably listening to her thoughts. The part that surprised her was that Hiei actually admitted his attraction toward her but she wasn't in the mood to think about that at the moment. Now that she thought about it, Shippo was happier whenever Youko or Hiei were around. Kagome took a deep breath and looked toward the ceiling as her last tears slid down her cheeks.

`Shippo… I'll love you always and you'll foreverbe in my heart. For you, I'm going to let go… I know that all you wanted was for me to be happy… so I'm going to release my pain. For you Shippo, I'm going to live happy.'

Kagome released the breath she'd been holding and smiled softly. After a moment, she dropped her towel and pulled on the clothes that Hiei had so kindly supplied her with. The black shirt was obviously his; it smelt strongly of his burning wood scent that she missed so much. She had no idea whose shorts she was wearing but they were very comfortable. Taking one more deep breath, Kagome opened the bathroom door and made her way down to the living room where she sensed everyone else. Smiling as she entered the large room, she plopped down on the couch next to Hiei and Kurama and stole the television remote from Kuwabara.

“Who's up for a movie?” she asked, smiling.

Everyone stared at her as if she's lost her mind, including Hiei. Kagome rolled her eyes at the odd look she was receiving from everyone. “I've realized that all Shippo wanted was for me to be happy. So I'm going to honor his wish as best I can by moving on.”

Kurama's eyes flashed golden as a charming smile spread across his face. Yusuke shrugged his shoulders in acceptance as Kuwabara grinned. Hiei merely nodded his head in approval before turning an accusing glare down at the miko. “Now will you explain what you were doing at that building with the virus?”

Kagome sighed and nodded. “After the jewel threw me back here, I fell into myself. I locked away all my memories of the past cause I thought it would be easier that way. I ended up applying for a job at a local self defense school and was recruited as a secret agent for the government instead. I've been doing random missions and I eventually became so engrossed in my job that I completely forgot about my past… it was like none of it happened, my memories of the feudal era were just a blur.

“Then I was sent on this last mission. I was caught and now I think it's because those guy were mostly demons. I'm one of the best agents and I almost failed my mission because I forgot that demons existed.” Kagome sighed as she shook her head. “Then you guys walked in. I immediately recognized Hiei but doubt filled my mind. I couldn't believe that he was really the hybrid I'd met in the past. From there, you guys pretty much know the rest.”

“You were one of the best agents?” Yusuke asked, sounding doubtful.

“I wouldn't judge her just yet Yusuke; she's tougher than she seems.” Kurama warned, relaying Youko's message.

Kagome snorted. “Tell Youko that he doesn't even know how much I've improved since he last saw me.”

*Really now? Shall we test you're new skills in a locked bedroom?* Youko purred, his eyes raking over Kagome's body through Kurama's vision.

-Please behave, we aren't even sure if she's mentally well just yet- Kurama reasoned. Youko groaned and backed down; swearing that once the miko was back to normal there was no chance of stopping him.

Kagome suddenly laughed softly when she glanced toward Kurama. “Youko being perverted again?” She questioned, surprising Kurama.

-She must know you quite well-

*She was about to be my mate*

“Just ignore him; he's all talk and no action.” Kagome laughed at the insulted look that splashed over Kurama's face as his eyes completely changed to gold.

“Excuse me?”

Yusuke's communicator suddenly blared, grabbing everyone's attention. The detective growled in irritation as he flipped it open. “What?!”

“Yusuke! Get everyone; there's a rip in the barrier!” Botan yelled in panic.

Everyone leapt to their feet as a portal appeared in the living room. Kagome pushed herself off the couch as well and was about to follow Kuwabara, who entered first, until Yusuke stopped her.

“Whoa there! Where do you think you're going?!”

“With you guys to help.” Kagome said, glaring at the detective as if daring him to command her to stay.

“The miko can take care of herself.” Hiei informed as he disappeared through the portal calmly.

Kagome grinned and followed after the hybrid, Yusuke and Kurama at her heels. They were immediately attacked once they exited the barrier. Kurama felt the need to remain close to Kagome and he wasn't sure if it was his doubt of her fighting abilities or Youko's curiosity of her new skills that she claimed of. Yusuke also seemed to be keeping a close eye on the miko as she effortlessly purified any demon that approached her. Hiei kept his complete attention on the rip. Demons were pouring out of it nonstop and if they didn't close it soon, some were going to escape into the city.

Kagome wasn't really sure what was going on but all she knew was that these demons weren't on her side. She noticed Hiei's attention toward the large black hole in the air and figured that was the sourced of their problem since demons were continuing to rush out of it. Creating a barrier around herself, Kagome closed her eyes and enveloped the others in barrier bubbles before pushing her purification throughout the entire clearing. Every demon within a five mile radius was turned to dust and the rip in the barrier disappeared with a `Poof'.

Grinning to herself, she dropped the barriers. Everyone was once again staring at her in surprise. “What?!”

“You truly have grown stronger.” Kurama mused, amazed by her amount of power.

`You're fighting skills have improved as well.' Hiei stated.

Kagome smiled. `Thank you Hiei, it's partially because of you.'

Botan suddenly appeared out of a portal with a huge smile on her face… and it was directed toward Kagome. “Would you please come with me?”

Recognizing the reaper from before, Kagome nodded and followed her through the portal, not surprised when the guys trailed behind her. She found herself in the same office as before and searched for that pint sized individual that deemed himself the prince of Reikai.

“Kagome, it's nice to see you in a good mood.” Koenma smiled as he leapt onto his desk.

Kagome nodded. “I'm feeling much better now that Hiei and Youko are back in my life. Is there something you needed of me?”

“In fact, yes. I'm aware that you work for the government as an agent. I would like for you to consider working for Reikai instead.”

Kagome stared up at the demi god in thought. “But I thought normal humans didn't know about the existence of demons? And the virus that I was assigned to retrieve, I need to bring that to base.”

“There is no need; the government would have given it to us anyway. The company you work for gets their assignments from Reikai, only they believe that we are a top secret agency. I would like to transfer you from your department to the spirit detectives. You would be a great addition from what I saw just moments ago.” Koenma stated.

“You can just transfer me? No questions asked?” Kagome asked.

“Indeed.”

“And I would get all my things and live with the guys?”

“Correct.”

“One more question… would I still get to keep my car?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~

Kagome grinned as she closed her truck carefully and moved to the driver's side. Sliding into the seat, she sighed in contentment as she inhaled the peppermint smell of her car. Yusuke and Hiei were in the back seat while Kurama was in shot gun, strapping his seat belt into place quickly. Kagome laughed at the slightly scared expressions on the guy's faces. “What are you all afraid of? I'm a great driver.”

“Yea… that's what all women say until they crash and total the car.” Yusuke muttered,

“And this is most definitely not a car I recommend totaling.” Kurama added.

“Why do you say that?” Kagome questioned as she pressed the clutch and started her Porsche.

“Because it's a really nice car! I would hate to see this beauty get wrecked! Maybe I should drive… do you even know how to drive a stick?” Yusuke asked, doubtful that she was capably of handling the sports car.

Kagome smirked at Yusuke through the rearview mirror before she threw the Porsche into reverse and sped out of the garage.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Yusuke leapt out of Kagome's silver piece of heaven with wide eyes. The entire drive to their house, Kagome decided to show them just how great of a driver she was. Yusuke sure as hell wasn't about to doubt her driving skills again… there were several times he thought they were going to crash with how hard she was drifting but she kept her GT2 in complete control. Kagome stepped out of the car with a triumphant smirk on her face as she made her way to the trunk. They had stopped by her house to pick up some of her clothes and now she just needed to unpack.

Kurama helped her carry everything up the stairs before showing her to her new room. It was a pretty nice size and the bathroom was right across the hall. Kurama informed her that if she needed anything, his room was to her right, Hiei's was on the left and Yusuke's was across from hers, next to the bathroom.

*Why did you bother telling her about the others? If she needs anything, she should come to our room.* Youko argued.

-Can you behave for more than ten minutes?! I already had to deal with you throwing visuals of the shifter being something else while Kagome was driving AND your fantasies of taking her in the back seat. Can I please have a break?!- Kurama snapped.

“Kurama? Are you alright?” Kagome asked, stepping toward him.

Kurama focused on the overly attractive female standing before him and took a quick step back. “Sorry, Youko was distracting me.”

Kagome rolled her eyes. “If I could help you, I would. Even if I gave that kitsune sex every night, he would still pester you…” Kagome sighed.

*If she's offering… let me out red!*

-No! Stop it Youko- Kurama growled. “It's not your fault Kagome. I'll be in the kitchen if you need me. I'll call you down when dinner is ready.” Kurama smiled before quickly making his way down the stairs.

Kagome sighed as she closed her door and leaned back against it. She was slightly surprised that her feelings for both Hiei and Youko were still very fresh but what shocked her more was the fact that she felt attracted to Kurama and Yusuke as well. She shook her head as she crawled onto her bed. If these men weren't demons… she'd be a whore. Lucky for her though, they were most definitely demon.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~

Kagome woke in the middle of the night scared out of her mind. It was still raining outside but now there was lightning and thunder… and Kagome was terrified of thunder. She pulled her blankets close around her as she sat up in bed. Scooting back to lean against the wall, she held her knees against her chest and stared out her window with wide eyes. Taking a deep breath, Kagome closed her eyes and tried to ignore the flashes of lightning brightening her room.

`I'm fine… I can do this… I just need to go back to sleep… there's nothing to be scar-'

Another loud clap of thunder shook the large house and Kagome leapt out of bed frantically. Rushing to her door, she opened it and stepped into the hallway. Her breathing rushing out harshly, she tried to decide what she was going to do. She was surrounded by the rooms of her new housemates and she knew the only way for her to get back to bed was if she was sleeping along side someone else.

Another clap of thunder roared through the halls and Kagome panicked, speeding through the nearest door, which happened to be Yusuke's right across the hall from her room. She dove onto the bed and under the covers, shaking from her fear of thunderstorms. Yusuke woke with a start, confused to see a large shaking bump under his covers. e heard feminine whimpering and lifted the blankets slightly.

“Kagome?”

“I'm sorry Yusuke… but I'm scared of thunder…” she whined, drawing her knees against her chest once more.

“And you came to my room?” he asked in confusion.

“You're room was closest… can I please just sleep here for the night?” she pleaded, staring at her with puppy dog eyes.

Yusuke rolled his eyes and nodded, moving his pillow over so she could use it as well. Kagome smiled her thanks and situated herself on her side, facing away from the detective and bundled the blankets tightly around her. Feeling saver with Yusuke there with her, she was able to fall back asleep, though Yusuke felt her body jump every time thunder would sound.

Kagome woke the next morning feeling better than she can ever remember. She groaned softly at the pleasant feeling of something massaging her butt when her eyes suddenly snapped open. Fully awake now, Kagome stared down at Yusuke who seemed to still be asleep. There was a smug smile plastered on his face and she was lying on top of him. His hands were on her backside squeezing and stroking it. Sighing to herself she sat up, hoping that his hands would move.

Instead, they remained where they were and Yusuke's eyes slowly opened. His gaze drifted up to Kagome as his eyes widened for a moment before he smirked. “You're not really scared of thunder are you? You just wanted to get in bed with me.”

Kagome rolled her eyes and removed Yusuke's hands before lifting herself off the detective. “In you're dreams Yusuke.” `And maybe in mine…' Kagome added to herself as she left his room and made her way down stairs to the kitchen. She groaned as she tried to clear her mind of the dirty thoughts that filled her mind and whipped open the fridge. Grabbing the carton of milk, she pulled a bowl from one of the cabinets. Filling it with lucky charms and milk, she returned everything to where it should be before digging into her breakfast.

“Are you alright?” The miko looked up from her bowl of cereal to see Kurama smiled toward her as he made his breakfast. She couldn't help but stare at the avatar slightly. He was wearing baggy sweat pants and a muscle tee and his hair was a mess… he looked absolutely sexy with bed hair.

Hiei entered the kitchen and Kagome turned a smile in his direction. She wasn't surprised when he didn't return it and headed straight for the freezer for the ice cream. Yusuke followed behind the hybrid several moments later in the same state of dress as he was in bed; a white shirt and his boxers.

“Have a nice sleep Kagome?” Yusuke asked, smirking in her direction.

“It would have been perfect if I hadn't woken up on top of a pervert groping me.” Kagome replied, smiling innocently. Hiei and Kurama turned questioning gazes their way and Yusuke merely grinned and shrugged.

“Did something happen last night?” Kurama asked, curious.

“Not really, just found out that Yusuke's just as perverted in his sleep as he is awake.” Kagome muttered as she shoved a spoonful of cereal in her mouth.

“Why don't you tell them how and why you found out this particular information about me Kagome?” Yusuke questioned with a smirk.

“There was a thunderstorm last night and I'm terrified of thunder so I rushed to Yusuke's room to sleep in his bed with him.” Kagome explained truthfully, not noticing the slightly jealous glares from Kurama and Hiei that were directed at Yusuke.

“Now how about you tell them the real reason you were in my bed.” Yusuke said.

“That is the real reason.”

“Then why did I wake up to you fully awake, straddling me?”

“Like I said before; you're just as perverted in your sleep as you are awake. I woke up on top of you… with your hands in inappropriate places.” she muttered the last part before dropping her bowl in the sink and skipping up the stairs to take a shower. Hiei and Kurama continued to glare at Yusuke, who exited the kitchen to watch TV in the living room.

*Is it just me or does it seem that Kagome may end up with more than three mates?* Youko murmured.

`If that is what she wants.' Hiei said, crossing his arms over his chest.

-Well we aren't certain of Yusuke's interest. Keiko only recently broke up with him, so perhaps this is just a fling of his.- Kurama commented.

Youko snorted. *Don't be ridiculous. Any male with a brain would take Kagome if they had the chance and if my little vixen truly does like all of us… well then she's in for some trouble.* the kitsune smirked. *The true question here is who gets her first.*

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~

Kagome sighed in contentment as she stepped out of her shower and wrapped a towel around herself. Brushing her teeth quickly, she opened the bathroom door and peeked out to be sure the coast was clear. Dashing across the hall to her room, she shut the door and made her way over to her new dresser. Pulling out a pair of shorts and a tight spaghetti strap, she slipped into her clothes before leaving her room. Deciding to explore the large house a little, she walked all the way down the hall and came to another bathroom. There was a window at the end of the hall that showed the side of the house which was where the garage was located.

Turning around, she noticed that Hiei's room was at the end of the other side of the upper floor. Trotting down the stairs, she realized a clear sliding door in the kitchen that she hadn't even seen. Glancing outside at the back yard, she was excited to see a large sized pool and a Jacuzzi along side it. On one side of the pool was a tall mountain looking rock formation that hovered over part of the pool. She guessed the pool was probably really deep so the guys could jump off the rock into the water. She felt the desire to dive in the water but decided against it. The sky was still completely covered in angry black clouds. The storm wasn't over yet… she just hoped it wouldn't thunder again.

“Looks like it might thunder tonight as well.” Kurama stated as he accompanied Kagome in the kitchen, staring out the glass door as well.

“I hope not… I'm not jumping in Yusuke's bed again…” she muttered, refusing to allow any naughty thoughts to enter her head at the moment.

“You can share my bed.” Kurama offered with a smile.

Kagome laughed. “Why didn't I think of that before? You're the respectful one. Why the hell did I rush into the room with the most perverted male in the house?”

“That's if you don't include Youko.” Kurama chuckled.

Kagome nodded. “Good point. Are you sure it's alright?

Kurama nodded. “Of course, as long as you don't throw me off the bed in the middle of the night.”

~*~*~*~*~

*Red, I'm proud of you.* Youko grinned.

-May I ask why?- the red head questioned as he removed his shirt. It poured rain all day and Koenma hadn't called them in for a mission so everyone had stayed inside. Kagome was changing into her pajamas while Kurama was getting ready for bed.

*You're making your move aren't you? I must be rubbing off on you.* the kitsune stated proudly.

-Actually I offered for her to spend the night in our room because she didn't seem to enjoy waking up with Yusuke.- Kurama explained, although he was also quite excited to have the miko sleeping next to him. He'd only known her for a few days and already he was practically head over heels for her.

*She seems to have that effect on the male species.* Youko murmured.

-What do you mean?-

*I fell for her several days after she rescued me and Hiei, if I judged correctly, was wrapped around her finger the second day he met her.* Youko explained.

-But that would have been when Hiei kidnapped her.-

*Correct. He was injured by Naraku and Kagome protected him even though he'd kidnapped her. She was the first female to care for Hiei.*

There was a soft knock on his door and Kurama was pulled from his conversation with Youko. Opening the door, he smiled down at Kagome. Youko was completely silent as the miko stood at the door until she stepped inside.

*Shut the door and lock it…* Youko purred.

-Behave. We are only here to comfort her through the storm.- Kurama rolled his eyes at his sex crazed counterpart.

“Kurama, are you sure it's alright?” Kagome asked, feeling a little bad for making him share his bed. The avatar sighed as he stepped toward the miko and nodded.

“Yes Kagome, calm down.” he chuckled. The first clap of thunder rumbled through the house and Kagome whined and flung herself at Kurama, burying her face in his bare chest.

*Oh… this is going to be interesting.* Youko smirked.

Kurama ignored the kitsune in his head and lifted the terrified miko into his arms. Placing her down on one side of the bed, he gracefully sat beside her on his side. “Are you going to be alright?” he asked, a little worried about the slight shaking of her body.

“Yea, I'll be fine…” she murmured as she quickly stood from the bed and turned off the bedroom light before rushing back and crawling under the covers. Kurama held back his laughter as the miko turned on her side, facing away from him. Growing a little gutsy, Kurama rolled onto his side and draped an arm over Kagome's waist. Her stiff body relaxed under his touch. She smiled and rested her hand over his and closed her eyes. Kagome's mind drifted to the difference and similarities of Youko and Kurama. They shared a body but they were very different.

Youko almost always had sex on his mind. He was always trying to get her closer to him physically; though she had to admit she didn't protest. Kurama was gently and sweet. Unlike Youko, she bet Kurama could behave himself the entire night. Yawning, Kagome found she felt very safe in the avatar's arms and she wasn't sure if it was because Youko shared a body with him or because she just felt she could trust the red head with her life.

~*~*~*~*~

Kagome woke the next morning feeling safe and warm. She could feel a warm muscular body pressed against her back and an arm around her waist holding her tightly. She was so comfortable she didn't want to move. Opening her eyes with a groan, she glanced behind her to see Kurama yawning.

“Sleep well?” he asked.

“Hmm, go back to sleep.” she murmured as she snuggled back against him.

Kurama smiled as he buried his nose in her hair, inhaling her intoxicating scent. Seconds later, the bedroom door slammed open. Kagome growled in irritation as she looked toward the door to see Yusuke and Kuwabara staring at them with their mouths hanging open.

“That's not fair! You didn't cuddle with me!” Yusuke whined.

“Because I didn't wake up to find Kurama's hands on my ass this morning.” Kagome snapped, sitting up and glaring at the detectives. “Now is there a particular reason you came barging in or should I beat the living shit out of you now?”

Youko grew excited from the fierce attitude Kagome seemed to be in. She's probably be great in bed in the early morning… rough and stubborn. Kurama groaned as he tried his best to ignore Youko and rested a hand on Kagome's shoulder to calm her.

“Koenma called, we have a mission in Makai.” Kuwabara said.

Kagome's eyes narrowed as she lifted herself out of bed and stormed off to her room to change. Kurama calmly made his way to his closet to change as well. When he returned to his room, Yusuke was still standing in his doorway, glaring at his accusingly.

“What's going on here.” he demanded.

“What are you referring to?”

“Kagome.”

“Ah… well to sum it up, you, Hiei, Youko and I all seem to like Kagome.” Kurama explained.

“Hiei too?! Holy shit I woulda never guess.” Yusuke mused.

“Yes well we intend on taking Kagome as our mate, as does Hiei.”

“Crap… and I was thinking of that last night too…” Yusuke admitted. “Guess you guys beat me.”

“This is not our decision, it's Kagome's.” Hiei stated as he entered the room as well.

“And it is common for demons to have more than one mate. Youko says that Kagome is aware of that.” Kurama said.

“But Kagome's not a demon… right?”

“No, she isn't, but all of us are.” Hiei clarified.

“So wait, are we talking about sharing her?” Yusuke questioned.

“If that's what she wants, then yes.” Kurama nodded.

“And if that is what she wants?”

“Then she decides who she mates with first.” Hiei answered.

*But I already have a claim on her!*

“The claim does not matter fox.” Hiei glared at Kurama.

“Though it may assist me.” Kurama pointed out. Kagome already agreed to accept Youko's claim… so that practically meant she accepted Kurama's claim since Youko and him were sharing the same body now.

“Whoa, wait! Kurama's got a claim on her already?! Shit, he's like a complete step ahead of us!” Yusuke complained.

“Youko placed the claim on her 500 years ago, it may still be there but that does not mean the fox gets her first.” Hiei snarled.

*Since when did you become so possessive of anyone besides Yukina?* Youko mocked the hybrid. Hiei merely threw a threatening glare his way.

“I sure hope all of you have exceptional self control because now that I know all of you are after me, you're going to have to work to get what you want.” Kagome smiled innocently from the doorway. The three males froze where they stood and turned to stare at the miko they had been discussing. She was wearing a pair of black pants that reached her calves. There were baggy and had bows at the hem to tighten the bottoms. Her tight black shirt only covered her breasts and the material reached a little further down her torso but left her entire midsection bare. She left her hair down and she had a strap around her waist that probably carried her guns.

Kagome rolled her eyes at the boys that continued to stare at her. “We have a mission guys, try to keep it in your pants.” She winked as she left the room and ran to the garage. Everyone, including Botan, waited for Kagome at front of the house. They spotted her exiting the garage and were confused to see that she had weapons. She had two M9 semi automatic handguns in her hands, which she was placing in the gun carriers located on the back of her belt. There were two M60 machine guns in the two gun carriers located at her hips.

“Where the hell did she get the guns?” Yusuke questioned.

“Not sure, wasn't her car empty?” Kuwabara asked.

“Yea, maybe they were in her trunk.” Yusuke suggested.

“That was empty as well; I put all her bags in the trunk.” Kurama stated.

“Then where the hell did she get them from? We don't have guns, specially not in the damn garage!” Yusuke yelled in frustration as Kagome looked up at them and smiled.

“You guys ready to go?”

“Kagome, may I ask why you're bringing guns? They don't harm demons like they do human.” Botan questioned.

“I can fuse purification into my bullets as I fire. Guns are easier to carry than the bow and arrows I used to haul around; not to mention I can carry more ammo for guns than arrows.” she explained.

“Fair enough, let's be on our way then.” the reaper grinned and stepped through the portal. Everyone followed after her silently and took a good look at their surroundings once they entered Makai. Kagome felt her miko powers flare to life from the overwhelming amount of demon ki that hit her. She felt short of breath for a moment before she grew used to the feeling and turned her attention to Botan.

“So our mission?”

“Several humans were kidnapped and dragged through the barrier to a location near here. The humans seem to only be women of young ages and they are beginning to disappear in larger groups as the days go on. Koenma wasn't sure if this would be a problem until we counted up a total of 26 women missing as of today.”

“It took the toddler this long to realize this was a problem? For all we know these chicks could be dead.” Yusuke snorted.

“Yes but even if they are you still need to find the demons that are taking these humans and rid of them. If not then these kidnaps will only continue.” Botan explained.

“Yea yea ok, go back to the office. We'll call you when the bastards are dead.” Yusuke grumbled.

Botan grinned and bid them luck before disappearing. Kagome remained silent as she scanned her surroundings. She had the feeling she was being watched and it was creeping her out. She couldn't figure out where she felt the feeling coming from and it was making her paranoid. Not sure where to start looking, Yusuke led the way to where they felt the largest amount of demonic ki within the area. Hiei and Kurama traveled with Kagome between them while Kuwabara walked beside Yusuke. It wasn't long before they stumbled across a market.

As they passed through, Yusuke asked random demons if they had seen any humans around lately. Kagome felt very uncomfortable as she noticed every single demon would look her way as they passed. Stopping to question a bartender, Kagome rested a hand on each of her machine guns. She sensed a group of demons closing in on them at a suspicious pace and she wasn't sure if anyone besides her had noticed yet. Suddenly, something wet and sticky wrapped around both Kagome's wrists and yanked her away from the Spirit Detectives.

She nearly gagged when she realized that the restrains around her wrists were slimy tongues of two toad demons. Before she had the chance to bring forth her purification, she was knocked unconscious, hearing the guys yell out her name just before she blacked out.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~

A/N:

Hope everyone enjoyed Chapter Eight! If anyone's wondering where Kagome got her guns, remember that her back seat flips over and the ceiling of her car slides back to reveal her hidden weapons? Well that's where she got her guns and that's why the SD's don't understand where she got them from, cause they don't know about her secret stash just yet. Hope you're all enjoying winter! I know I am ^_^ R&R!

~*Icyfire*~

Next Chapter - Chapter 8: Raging Inferno