Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ A Moment of Weakness ❯ Shuichi's Dilemma ( Chapter 3 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Once again I return with another installment to this newer story of mine. Sorry for the delay, but I’ve been unmotivated. Hopefully you don’t find this chapter too boring. Without further ado, onto Chapter three!

  Chapter 3–Shuichi’s Dilemma

His eyes opened slowly, drawn out of the deep, intoxicating haze of sleep by tender yet insistent whispers of his name.

“Kurama? Kurama wake up please. We need to go before it’s too late.”

He felt the touch of a warm hand upon his bare shoulder and his brow furrowed. The voice sounded familiar to him. As did the touch of the hand’s owner. But who was trying to wake him and why? The tournament didn’t start until morning. And he still had hours to go. Didn’t he?

Curiosity drove Kurama’s eyes to open fully to find his unfocused gaze aimed heaven ward where the darkness of night still dominated the sky above. Confusion filled him. Just what was he doing outside?

“Kurama?”

The kitsune turned his head, his breath catching as the sight that met his view. “Bo.. Botan?” He whispered in disbelief, bolting upright in shock. Memory returned to him instantly, images of the past few hours filling his mind. His gaze shifted away from the deity and he stared outward. He remembered taking the past lives potion. Remembered transforming into Youko, his human consciousness pushed into the dormant areas of his mind, unable to communicate with his other half but still aware of what was going on around him.

He recalled the excitement and confusion Youko had felt towards the deity. The mixture of lust and love and the need to express it. And the fox spirit had. In the most intimate way possible. And though glad Botan had returned his affection, that didn’t lessen the fact that Youko had given into a moment of weakness. A weakness of the body. No doubt being in such close contact with Botan, coupled with the feelings that already lingered within his heart, had driven his demon side to consummate the relationship between the kitsune and the deity.

Shuichi had wanted to take his time with her. To get to know her better. To understand and communicate his emotions in the most gentlemanly way possible. And if she felt the same way, to be her first and only. And you had to go and screw it all up, didn’t you, Youko.

He wanted to yell at the fox spirit. Wanted to confront him for his actions but couldn’t. Though merged, the two sides of Kurama’s conscious had yet to communicate more than a sentence or two between each other. And only in battle. Damn you, Youko! He growled. Why did you do this?!

Botan watched the shifting expressions on Kurama’s face in surprise. Never before had she seen so much emotion upon the handsome red head’s features. And it both intrigued and frightened her. He was angry. But why? Why would he be so upset? Didn’t he say that he loved her? “Kurama?” She whispered in apprehension as she reached out to place a tentative hand upon his arm. “Are you all right?”

The red head brought his gaze back upon the deity, his anger dissipating at the touch of her hand and the concerned tone of her voice. “Yes, I’m fine..” He answered softly, before adding, “I’m just rather ..surprised at all this.”

Botan blushed heavily, realizing exactly what he was talking about. They were both naked. What if someone saw them? What would Koenma do to her if and/or when he found out she and Kurama had slept together? What exactly would the punishment for having sex with a non- reigen be? Was there even a punishment for such a thing? And what about Kurama? What would happen to him if their boss found out? Would he be taken from her? Put in spirit world jail? The thought of losing him hurt the deity greatly. Drowning in a sea of fear and uncertainty, Botan lowered her gaze, biting her lip as she fought to hold back the tears that were surely forming in her eyes.

Kurama studied the ferry girl in concern. He could sense her sadness and it hurt him. Greatly. Forgetting all about Youko’s actions and wanting to comfort her, the kitsune reached out and pulled Botan towards him. He held her gently against him, trying hard to ignore the wonderful sensation of her naked body against his as he embraced her.

Botan wrapped her arms around him, her chin resting on his shoulder as she unleashed her tears and snuggled against him.

“It’s all right, Botan.” Kurama whispered, caressing her back reassuringly as he continued to hold her. “Let it all go. It’s all right. I’m here for you.” He added, the sincere tone matching the depths of his heart.

Botan’s tears gradually lessened and she sniffled, pulling away from him enough to look into his eyes. “You really mean that?” She asked, a smile tugging at her lips as Kurama nodded.

“Of course. I don’t make promises lightly.” He whispered as he loosened his hold. Raising his right hand, the kitsune wiped Botan’s tear streaked face then rested it against the side of her face, caressing her lips gently with his thumb.

The deity studied him in surprise, her expression becoming tender as she reached up and rested her hand atop his own. “Then, you’re not angry with me?”

Kurama frowned but shook his head. “No. Why would I be angry at you?”

Botan bit her lip and lowered her gaze. “Because you seemed mad earlier and I thought maybe it was because I..”

“It’s not your fault, Botan.” Kurama interrupted, cutting the deity off. “You are not to blame for what happened.”

“What do you mean?” She whispered, confusion filling her. “Are you saying that what we did was a mistake?”

Kurama flinched at the pained tone in her accusation. “No, Botan. That’s not what I meant.” He replied. “It wasn’t a mistake. I don’t regret what happened. It’s just that.. “ He started and stopped, unsure how to express what he felt without sounding ridiculous. After all, Youko and Shuichi were technically one and the same. Nothing more than two separate consciousness within a single body. Still, the thought that Youko had been Botan’s first still irked him.

“Just what?” Botan asked, studying him intently. “What are you trying to say, Kurama?”

The kitsune met her gaze and let out a pained sigh. “I’m saying that I’m .. jealous.”

Botan frowned. “Jealous?” She said in confusion. “Jealous of what?”

“Of him.” Kurama replied. “Of Youko.”

A knowing look crossed the ferry girl’s face. “Oh,” She whispered, a shy smile tugging at her lips before she let out a small giggle.

The red head studied her in mild annoyance. “What’s so funny?”

Botan shook her head, her eyes twinkling as she looked at him. “You are. Silly.”   She answered, covering her lips in a lame attempt to stop her giggling.

Kurama was not amused. “I’m so happy you’re having a laugh at my expense.” He growled softly, the pouting tone of his voice and features making the deity only giggle harder.

“You’re so cute when you pout. You should do that more often.”

Raising his eyebrows, the kitsune replied, “ You think I’m cute when I pout?”

Botan nodded, her giggles dying down and her tone serious as she said, “And you have nothing to be jealous over, Kurama. I love you”

Kurama blushed at her admonition. “You.. Love me?” He whispered.

“Of course I do. You’re intelligent, courageous, caring and beautiful. What’s not to love?”

Kurama smiled. “And I love you too, Botan. My beautiful and wonderful deity.”

Now it was Botan’s turn to blush. “Kurama..” She whispered tenderly before throwing her arms back around the kitsune. “That makes me so happy!”

The red head flinched, momentarily startled by the joyful exuberance that radiated from the ferry girl only to return her enthusiasm, hugging her tight against him, smiling as he drew in a breath, reveling in the scent that was Botan’s alone.

They remained embracing each other for several seconds before the reality of their situation returned and they broke apart, each blushing at the intimate contact of their bare flesh against each other.

Kurama coughed politely, trying hard not to stare at the deity in all her naked glory. But it was hard. His body was already responding to the touch of Botan’s skin against his, the closeness and heat of her was beginning to dominate his usually logical and reserved mind. And if they didn’t get dressed and moving, things might escalate and they would never return to the hotel.

Botan was having similar problems, her amethyst eyes studying the toned and firm body of Kurama’s human side with just as much desire and appreciation as she had for Youko’s. She felt the heat rise to her face and she lowered her gaze, images of earlier forming unbidden in her mind. Just how different was Shuichi from Youko? Did they kiss the same, touch the same, make love the same? Oh dear. She gasped inwardly. I really shouldn’t be thinking such things.

“Botan?”

The ferry girl lifted her head, her heart pounding at the tender way Kurama studied her. She licked her lips unconsciously, her throat going dry as his gaze grew more and more intense. “Yes.. Kurama?”

The kitsune smirked inwardly, noticing with amusement how nervous the deity was. And excited. Yes. He could sense it. For he felt it as well, the desire and affection evident within his eyes and his voice as he studied her. Though he wanted nothing more than to act on it, Kurama knew they had to get moving. And soon. “We really should be going don’t you think?”

Botan blinked, nearly falling over at her lover’s comment but managed to nod. She started to rise only to fall back down when she remembered she was totally naked. She clutched the fabric of clothing that Youko had tossed over them earlier only to gasp as she noticed it was no longer a sleeveless tunic but a Chinese fighting jacket. She frowned. What the..

Kurama saw her confusion and chuckled. “I wore that out here earlier, Botan.” He said, giving answer to her silent question. “Before I transformed into Youko.”

“Heh, heh..” Botan replied, giving him a sheepish look. “I knew that. Now turn around, please.” She whispered, her features darkening when Kurama chuckled again.

“I’m afraid it’s a little late to be modest, don’t you think, Botan?” He asked, allowing her to see a rare smirk from him as he continued in a teasing tone. “I’ve already seen all of you and I must say you lack nothing.”

“You..” Botan stammered in slight shock, tempted at first to smack him over the head with her oar only to suddenly match his smirk as she retorted. “And what about you, mister?”

Kurama stopped chuckling but the smirk remained. “What about me?”

“Don’t you feel.. I don’t know.. Embarrassed to be naked?”

The kitsune cocked his head to the side, his features thoughtful. “I am a little.” He admitted a few seconds later. “But what’s done is done. Besides, it’s just you and I out here.” He paused, waving a hand towards the plants that still protected them from view. “And no one else can see us. So I’m not too worried about it.” He lowered his hand and added softly. “However, if you want me to turn around, I will.”

Botan bit her lip as she thought over what he had said. True, they had already seen each other naked. There was nothing left to the imagination. Nothing to be ashamed of. Kurama loved her. And she loved him. That was all that mattered. Still, she couldn’t help but feel a little reserved about walking around totally bare in front of him. Not just yet anyway. She gave him a small nod, signaling her desire for him to turn away from her.

Kurama gave her an understanding smile and turned slowly around. He heard and sensed the deity rise to her feet, dropping the shirt before quickly shuffling over to her clothing piled to the far side away from him. He swallowed a lump in his throat, trying to push the images of her nubile body out of his mind and it was only through sheer will power that he refrained from sneaking a peek. He lowered his gaze to the side and down, smiling as he spotted his pants nearby. Reaching out, he dragged them backwards, quickly slipping them before grabbing the jacket to his left and sliding it on. Kurama rose slowly to his feet and turned around, stretching his muscles as he watched Botan finish sliding the sweatshirt over her head.

The deity’s straightened out her shirt then shifted her gaze towards the standing form of Kurama, the breath catching in her throat as her eyes fell upon the open front of the Chinese jacket. She watched, fascination and desire filling her as she way the toned muscles of Kurama’s torso contracted with each movement he made. She felt the impulse to walk over to him and touch him but held back. There would be time for that later. Hopefully. She added, still concerned over the repercussions of their actions.

Kurama caught Botan staring at him and he smiled. Lowering his hands, the kitsune began to button up his jacket, stifling a laugh at the look of disappointment that crossed his lover’s face. Don’t worry, he thought. I’ll make up for it later. If there is a later. He added, a frown claiming his usually calm features. There was still the matter of fighting in the finals. And of defeating Karasu once and for all. Not only so he could return home but also for the sake of Botan as well. He wanted to spend time with her. To marry her in the proper way. If she would have him. If Karasu wasn’t taken care of, none of his friends would be safe. And I can’t allow him to hurt anyone.

Walking over to the side, the kitsune crouched down and retrieved his shoes, slipping them on before rising to his feet once again. Feeling that they could no longer delay, Kurama raised his hand then lowered it, commanding the plants to shrink. The undulating mass of green obeyed, reverting back to their seed like state and allowing the couple a full view of the forest once more.

Kurama studied the area, looking out for any signs of danger before turning back to Botan. “All clear.” He whispered softly to her, watching as she went back towards the river to retrieve her socks and shoes which she quickly slipped on before returning to his side.

“Ready?” He asked.

Botan nodded. “Let’s go.” She replied.

Kurama turned and began to walk, the deity beside him. A warm smile lit up his face as he felt her hand clasp his own. He turned to her, love shining in his eyes as Botan returned his look, the same emotions etched over her pretty features.

Without another word, the couple continued to walk, making their way back to the hotel, both of them hoping to avoid contact with anyone. They didn’t realize that someone already knew what had happened and was waiting. Waiting to destroy their love. To make them suffer. Simply because he felt the need to.

XXXXX

The lights of the hotel cast a soft glow, beckoning them forward. Yet Kurama held back. Botan at his side, the kitsune eyed the open area beyond the edge of the forest warily. Though they had failed to encounter anyone, demon or otherwise, during their trip back towards civilization, that brought him little comfort. Something was watching them. He could feel it. But where? He wondered as he continued to survey the area.

“Kurama?”

“What is it, Botan?” He whispered, not daring to shift his gaze over to her, though he wanted to.

Botan studied her lover with concern. For the majority of the trip back, the red head had been silent. She understood the necessity of stealth. They didn’t want to get caught. Still, she wanted to talk to him. Needed to hear his voice. There were so many things she wanted to tell him. So many things she still didn’t know. And I’m not certain I’ll ever get the chance to ask him. She lowered her head, pain and fear welling in her heart. There was a good possibility Kurama wouldn’t survive in the finals. Especially if he ended up facing Karasu.

Karasu. Botan repeated mentally, goose bumps erupting along the smooth skin of her forearms. The demon made her skin crawl. His sadistic mannerisms and amorality sickened her to the point of nausea. She frowned, wondering why the crow demon had popped up into her consciousness. Her frown deepened as she recalled the disgust and rage Youko had displayed when she had mentioned Karasu. A thought came to her then. One she didn’t like. Seeking an answer to her question, she decided to break their silence. “Can I ask you something?”

Kurama frowned, noting the uneasiness within the deity’s voice. Though currently in his human form, it didn’t lessen the scent he picked up coming from her. She was afraid. But of what? Drawing his gaze slowly over to her he asked, “What’s wrong, Botan?”

The ferry girl lifted her gaze, her heart leaping in her throat at the look of concern upon Kurama’s face. It didn’t matter that she knew he loved her already. Whenever he looked at her, whenever he talked to her, her heart just wanted to burst. Which was scary yet wonderful at the same time. She bit her lip, unsure suddenly whether she should ask him or not. After all, he might just find her being a bubble head again. But I need to know. Gathering courage, Botan spoke. “Earlier..when Youko was talking to me, I told him something that upset him.” She paused, studying Kurama’s face, hoping he remembered what she was talking about.

The red head searched his memory, trying to find what it was exactly Botan was referring to. When nothing came to mind he asked, “What is it you told him?”

“You..you don’t remember?” Botan stammered in shock. “But I thought Youko and you..”

“We’re not exactly the same person, Botan.” Kurama replied, pushing down the jealous emotions that surfaced at the mention of his demon side’s name. “And though I can remember bits and pieces of conversation and ..” He paused, a slight blush creeping across his face when the image of Botan beneath him resurfaced from memory. “Other things, I can’t recall everything.”

“Oh.” Botan whispered. Don’t I feel stupid. “Well, it’s just that..”

“Yes?” Kurama murmured, watching her patiently as he waited for the deity to finish her thoughts.  

Botan’s features scrunched up, frustrated as to how she could tell him without sounding silly. “Well, I had a nightmare. With you in it. And .. Karasu.”

Recognition flashed across the young man’s face. He did remember that particular point in the conversation Youko had with the deity. And the idea of Karasu even thinking about coming close to Botan made the blood boil within his normally stoic nature. Defeating him wouldn’t be good enough. He’d have to kill the crow demon to ensure the deity’s safety. As well as his own. And I’ll do it gladly. “I do recall that conversation, Botan. And just as Youko promised you, so to will I. No harm will befall you. We’ll make sure of that.”

A blush spread across the deity’s face. “Kurama.. I ..” She started then stopped, eyes darkening at the chuckle that emanated from the kitsune’s throat. “What’s so funny?”

“Nothing.” The red head said quickly, lips twisted into a smirk..

 She growled, irritated at his teasing. He’s just as bad as Youko. She grumbled to herself. Lifting her right hand, she extended her index finger and reached out, poking Kurama’s left shoulder. “Tell me right now, mister.”

Kurama chuckled again, eyes twinkling in amusement at her reaction. “Merely that you’re beautiful when you blush.” He answered

“Oh.” She whispered, a shy smile forming on her lips as she lowered her gaze. “You.. You find me beautiful?”

The kitsune grew quiet, his brow furrowing. The surprise in her voice had startled him. Reaching out, Kurama gently took the deity’s hand, caressing the back with his thumb. “I do.”

A soft gasp escaped from Botan’s throat, the feel of his thumb drawing her gaze back up to him, her heart jumping at the tender look that now graced the kitsune’s countenance. “Ku.. Kurama?”

The tremble in her voice both amused and excited him. She was so innocent, so pure, so intoxicating that he wondered why he hadn’t pursued her sooner. He both wanted and loved her. And though afraid of such feelings, he would no longer deny them. Nor did he want to. Kurama’s gaze traveled down to her lips, his heart skipping a beat when the deity unconsciously licked them.

God, how he wanted to kiss her. To hold her. To give himself to her and to take what she offered. Without guilt or shame. He struggled with his emotions, trying in vain to move away from her. To lead her back inside. But the urge became to strong. Releasing her hand, Kurama reached up, cupping the side of her face, his other hand mimicking the motion. Before the deity could utter a word, the kitsune leaned forward and captured her lips with his own, kissing her with all the pent up desire that had lingered since falling in love with her.

Botan’s eyes widened at his actions then went half lidded as she returned his kiss, moaning into his mouth at the feel of his arms wrapping around her. Arms crooked, she welcomed his embrace, too lost in the warmth of his body to realize someone was behind her.

“Well isn’t this an interesting sight.” A voice called out softly, the tone at once seductive yet threatening at the same time.

Kurama broke off the kiss first, shock and anger filling him when his eyes fell upon the form of Karasu standing just beyond Botan’s shoulder. His protective nature instantly kicked in and with a quick movement, he shifted the deity behind him, his gaze never leaving the crow demon’s. “What the hell are you doing here, Karasu?” The kitsune growled, a flash of gold igniting within his calm emerald orbs before fading back to normal.

Karasu studied Kurama in mild amusement. “Why, nothing.. Kurama.” He whispered, his amethyst eyes twinkling with lust and malice as his gaze lingered on the half human before shifting over to the ferry girl. “I’m simply admiring your lover.” He added with a knowing smirk which unsettled the kitsune.

Oh my God. The red head thought in trepidation. He knows. Anger quickly replaced shock. “You were the one I sensed out in the woods!”

The crow demon nodded, his smirk hidden by the mask around his chin. “Yes. And I must say you two made quite a bunch of noise. Too bad I couldn’t see anything, I should have liked to have seen you ravish this beauty here.” He replied, his heated gaze now fixated on Botan.

The deity’s hands clasped the material of Kurama’s jacket, the fear and loathing she felt palpable to him as the crow demon leered then advanced towards them.

Possessiveness and rage filled the kitsune’s heart and mind. Crooking and arm around his back, he held Botan close, his eyes focused sharply on Karasu. “I’m warning you,” He said in a calm tone that belied the anger brimming below the surface. “Come any closer and I will not hesitate to kill you.”

Karasu chuckled. “An amusing threat.” He whispered then disappeared.

Kurama frowned only to widen his eyes when her heard the crow demon behind him.

The dark haired demon now stood behind Botan, his slender hands running through the back of the deity’s hair. “Such wonderful hair you have my dear. So unlike Kurama’s” He continued to stroke the blue locks, his voice turning lustful as he leaned in and whispered. “I’m going to enjoy breaking you.”

Botan paled then scowled, offended and frightened by his threat. Without warning, she materialized her oar and swatted backwards, glaring at the now empty space where the crow demon once stood.

Karasu materialized in front of the kitsune, his eyes focused in dark amusement at the angered features of his rival. “She’s quite feisty, Kurama. I can see why you took her as your lover.” He observed lightly, his tone suddenly turning malicious as he added, “And I look forward to taken her as my own after I kill you.”

At this Kurama snapped. “You will not touch her.” He growled threateningly. “ And if you try anything, I will kill you, Karasu. Mark my words.”

Karasu shrugged his shoulders, unconvinced. “Hmm.. I wouldn’t bet on it, boy.”

With a quick flash of movement, the kitsune withdrew a rose from his hair and fed it energy, transforming it into a rose whip. He held it defensively in front of him, as if to taunt the crow demon into attacking. “If you don’t leave now, I’ll make sure you don’t make it to the finals.”

The crow demon’s eyes narrowed. “Try it.” He replied heatedly.

Kurama growled and moved forward, about to attack only to stop when a large figure loomed suddenly behind the crow demon.

“What are you doing out here, Karasu?” The deep voice of Toguro called out, his shaded eyes unreadable as he stared down at the much smaller demon.

“Oh,” Karasu replied nonchalantly, trying his best not to show the anger he felt at the sudden intrusion into his fun. “Merely walking around outside for a breath of fresh air before the finals.”

Toguro frowned, unamused. “Then I suggest you move along. You know the rules.”

Karasu snorted and turned to him. “Since when do you follow the rules, Toguro?” He snapped but complied, marching past the strong man, stopping a few seconds later to look over his shoulder, his gaze lingering on Kurama as he called out with seductive softness. “I’ll see you later, Kurama. Do be sure and give your woman a kiss from me, hmm..”

The fox spirit watched him go, glaring hard at the retreating demon’s back, his gaze never wavering until Karasu was out of sight.

Toguro watched as well before returning his gaze back to Kurama. A smirk formed on his lips but he said nothing as he walked past them and out of sight as well.

Kurama remained alert, not relaxing even when Botan wrapped her arms around his waist and clung to him and nestled into his back. Turning towards her, he hugged her to him, reassuring her with his actions that they were all right. For now. “Let’s go.” He whispered , reluctantly breaking out of her hold, clasping her hand and cautiously leading her into the hotel, casting one last glance around, making sure they were alone before following the deity inside.

XXXXX

After escorting Botan to her room and promising to visit her before he left in the morning, Kurama headed straight to his own temporary quarters. Stopping in front of the door, he quickly pulled out the entry card and swiped it, turning the knob the second the light switched from red to green. With a weary sigh he entered then closed the door behind him. So many things had happened within the last few hours. So many things he had to think about. Two things were certain. He had to win for the team and he had to kill Karasu. Without either of these both his life and the life of all his friends would be forfeit. And the life he now wanted with Botan would be over before it even began. I will not lose her to him.

“You’ve been gone a long time, Kurama.” Hiei’s voice interjected in the darkness, drawing the kitsune’s attention. “I trust you succeeded in your transformation?”

Kurama’s gaze shifted over to the window sill where the fire demon sat, his crimson orbs studying the clouded sky idly. “You didn’t have to stay up to wait for me, Hiei.” He replied softly. He turned his attention away from his room mate, walking over to the closet to retrieve his night attire. He quickly changed into a pair of blue pajama pants and matching shirt before tossing the uniform into the hotel hamper for cleaning.

Hiei’s gaze didn’t waver from the window. “Don’t flatter yourself. I’m merely suffering from a bit of insomnia.”

When Kurama didn’t reply, the small demon hopped of the sill and walked over to him, a smirk forming on his lips when he caught a whiff of something familiar. “Hn. Seems you did more than just train all these hours, kitsune. That woman’s scent is all over you.” He paused, his smirk widening at the surprised expression on his best friend’s face. “Took you long enough to claim her.”

Kurama frowned as he studied him. “What are you talking about, Hiei?”

“The ferry girl’s scent.” Hiei repeated. “It’s all over you. And with all the shameless flirting you two have been doing, it was only a matter of time before you mated with her.”

A chuckle escaped from the taller man’s throat. “I didn’t know you paid attention to these things.” He said then added teasingly, “Don’t tell me you’re jealous.”

Hiei glared at him, unamused by his accusation. “Don’t be stupid.” He growled. “I could care less about such trivial things.”

“Then why bring it up?”

Hiei turned his gaze away from him. “Perhaps because you deserve a little bit of happiness in your life.” He answered softly.

Kurama quirked an eyebrow, his voice teasing as he said, “Be careful, Hiei. Next you’ll be admitting you think of me as a friend.”

“Hn.” Hiei sounded out through his smirk as he walked back over to the window sill and settled down once more. “You better get some sleep. You’re going to need all the rest you can if you hope to survive.”

Kurama snickered at Hiei’s chiding tone. “Yes mother.” He replied, chuckling at the dark look the fire demon gave him before laying down in his bed and closing his eyes, falling into the land of dreams where Botan awaited him.

Okay, yes, this is way overdue but I have been suffering from a lingering illness which saps all my strength and energy. The exhaustion is awful and I fear I may never recover from it. Despite this, I did finish the chapter. There is only one left to go, and this little story of mine will be complete.

Next time: After the defeat of Team Toguro, Botan visits Kurama to heal his wounds and gets more than she expected, leading to an intimate moment between the pair before departing home.