Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ After the Fall ❯ The Gang Arrives ( Chapter 28 )

A/N: In chapter 27 I gave you the name of the Reigen who started the great war 3,000 years ago. So just in case you missed it, his name was Konrei. This man is the grandfather of Ren and Tahomen. You'll learn more about his identity soon.

Chapter 28--The Gang Arrives

Sunday morning arrived upon the wings of a clouded sky, massive blankets of gray wrapping slowly around the entirety of Sakaoshimi, choking out the sun that fought in vain to pierce the darkened shadow cast over the peaceful city. Flashes of light burst within the confines of the clouds followed by a low continuous rumbling that shook the ground, sounding out the call of an impending storm ready to unleash it's weighted burden.

And so it was that Botan awoke, driven to consciousness by the flashes of lightning that ripped across the sky and the sound of thunder that shook the windows along the wall above Kurama's bed. The deity's eyelids fluttered open, disorientation quickly fading as a series of flashes assaulted her vision. She blinked, a small gasp escaping her throat as a blast of thunder slammed against the glass. Botan had always been a little fearful of storms. Especially lightning.

She had lost count of the number of times the electrical current passing within the nimbus clouds had nearly struck her during her travels within Ningenkai. Still, she braved on, pushing her fears to the side in order to fulfill her duties as a soul guide for Reikai. But will I always be a guide? Botan wondered. Her gaze shifted, moving away from the window above to the man sleeping beside her.

The deity studied Kurama's peaceful features, a tender smile tugging at her lips. So many things had happened between them the past few days. So many new experiences left to share. Botan wanted to spend the rest of her life with Kurama. Wanted to have children with him, to live a normal life. Well, as normal as possible. She conceded mentally, fully aware that both she and Kurama were anything but normal. Her features grew pensive, her thoughts turning dark as she wondered about the consequences of her accepting Kurama's proposal. Their situation was still not resolved in Reikai. And until the book was found, her future with the kitsune was uncertain at best.

But that wasn't the only thing troubling her.

There was also a fear of the unknown.

No ferry girl had ever lived for a long period of time outside of Reikai. If she were to completely leave her home world, what exactly would that do to her body? Would she grow old and die as a human or would she retain her immortality? And what about children. What kind of troubles would they have growing up, knowing that they were different than their peers. Stronger, more agile, with the ability to heal themselves if injured. Or would they not have any powers at all? Would they inherit their parents immortality or were they doomed to walk the path of mortals? And just how in the hell were they going to explain everything to them without sounding certifiable?

Another blinding flash of light erupted above her, a thunderous boom following simultaneously, startling Botan from her thoughts. The deity tightened her hold upon the kitsune's bare torso, nestling her face into the crook of his neck as she clenched her eyes shut only to open them a second later when she heard Kurama whisper.

"Afraid of storms are we, Botan?"

Botan pulled back slightly as Kurama twisted his head to the side, his amused green orbs meeting her pensive amethyst ones.

"A little," She answered, offering him a shy smile as she lowered her head back upon his shoulder. "But I like snuggling up to you, too." She added, hoping he wouldn't press her on the issue.

"I must confess I rather enjoy having you snuggle up against me," He said, his voice teasing at first only to morph into one of concern. "But as pleasing as that is, I'd much rather know what is troubling you," He added, studying the pained features of Botan. Although he presented her with a mask of placidity, inside his heart was troubled. Something was bothering her. Something Kurama felt he needed to know. He didn't want her to suffer. Not now. Not ever. Even if it is trivial, I want to ease her pain. "So tell me love. What's wrong?"

I should have known he would ask. Botan thought, her features tightening as she moved her gaze downward and away from his, watching the steady rise and fall of his chest. She didn't want to burden him with her silly questions. For that was what the deity thought them to be. At least that's what she tried to convince herself they were. But the uncertainly and worry would not abate her heart. "It's nothing really," She tried once more to steer him away from the conversation. "I'm just feeling a little nervous that's all."

Kurama frowned. "Nervous about what?" He asked, waiting patiently for Botan to reply. When his ears met silence, his frown deepened. "Botan?" He whispered in concern as he turned onto his side. Reaching out, he crooked his left index finger under the deity's chin and brought her head upright until their eyes met. "Botan tell me, what's wrong?"

Botan found herself drowning within his gaze, the concern and pain reflected within his eyes inescapable in their sincerity. And she could feel his emotions washing over her, so much so that tears began to form, threatening to burst forth and down upon her pale skin. "I'm scared Kurama." She murmured, her voice barely audible. "I'm scared that I won't be able to spend the rest of my life with you. That we won't have the chance to life a normal life. That our children will be ridiculed and hated just for being different. I'm scared that if I remain solely in Ningenkai, my immortality will fade and I will grow old and die. And I just don't want .. I don't .." Her voice trailed off, the tears flowing freely down her face as she choked back the sobs escaping from her throat.

A stab of pain shot through Kurama's heart. She was suffering yet again. Drowning in a sea of uncertainty. Uncertainty of their future. Will it always be like this? He wondered as he tightened his hold upon her bare back, pulling her closer to him. Will we be forever doomed to a life dominated by doubt? If the elders were to discover their forbidden relationship, they would try to kill the kitsune and the deity. Along with all those who cared about her. And although certain the elders would not succeed, Kurama did not welcome the prospect of fighting his mate's people. For war between the three realms would begin anew. Just like it did 3,000 years ago. "It's all right Botan," He whispered softly, rubbing her back in a reassuring gesture as he rested his head against hers. "It's all right." He repeated, opening his heart freely to her, allowing her to sense what was within his soul.

Botan continued to cry for several seconds, her sobs dying down and her once shivering body returning to normal. She held onto him, drawing strength from his words and his presence until the sadness faded. The deity pulled her head back, her tear stained eyes gazing into the loving ones of Kurama who reached up with his left hand and gently wiped her tears away. "All better now?" He asked softly, lowering his hand to wrap his arm back around her.

Botan beamed at him, her heart lightening, the love she felt for him equaling the unconditional love he offered her. And in that moment, a new emotion took hold. An emotion she shared with Kurama alone.

Kurama studied the woman wrapped within his arms, a curious expression on his face that quickly changed to surprise as Botan leaned forward, kissing him full on the lips.

Botan's eyes remained focused on Kurama's, noting with some satisfaction the gold flecks bursting within his emerald pools.

Kurama's surprise lasted for about a second, desire quickly overriding anything else as he deepened the kiss, pulling Botan towards him until no space remained.

The deity could feel the heat radiating off the kitsune's body as his skin touched hers, a familar sensation building within the pit of her stomach from the intimate contact between them. Botan return his ardor, lost in the need that was growing as her hands began to roam along his body.

Kurama's eyes widened then relaxed, a purr escaping his throat from the deity's gentle caresses along his left arm, back and side. He truly loved her. Loved the way she responded to his touch and the affection she returned upon him. But it was more than just the physical aspects of their relationship he enjoyed. He loved Botan's smile, her bubbly attitude, the silly things she did. All of it. Everything about her made him want to keep her by his side always. And he wanted her to be happy. Wanted her to enjoy their time together, to enjoy what he had to offer. Especially since it would be their last day together for awhile.

And if she wants to spend it in bed, so much the better. He thought, as he rolled Botan onto her back. His lips left hers momentarily, trailing a series of butterfly kisses along her jaw before proceeding down her neck, a masculine smirk forming on his lips at the whimpering sounds that escaped from Botan's throat. He brought his attention back up to his mate's lips, about to kiss her again when a masculine voice called out inside his mind.

I don't think you have time for that now, Kurama.

Kurama frowned, instantly annoyed by the owner of the voice. Go away Hiei, The kitsune growled back telepathically, his Youko side rising to the surface at what he perceived to be an unwarranted and unwelcome interruption. Before I tear out that Jagan eye of yours. He added threateningly as he leaned down and brushed his lips against the willing deity's.

A chuckle was heard inside his head, annoying Kurama further.

Hn. Threats so early in the morning. I thought that was my job. Hiei retorted, clearly amused with his best friend's telepathic response.

Kurama broke off the kiss with Botan, his features darkening from the fire demon's continued telepathic intrusion between him and his mate. He felt the desire leaving Botan, concern taking it's place and the kitsune sighed inwardly. The mood now lost, Kurama focused his attention on his telepathic conversation with his best friend. What is it you want Hiei? He sent out irritably, his gaze focused away from the woman beneath him as he waited for the Koorime to reply.

Nothing really. Hiei answered a few seconds later, the amusement still in his voice. I just thought you'd like to know we've just walked into your apartment building.

Crap! Kurama thought in dismay and annoyance. Today they were supposed to go on a recon mission to find out all they could about Ren. But did they have to show up so early? He grumbled inwardly.

"Kurama what's wrong?" Botan asked, staring up at the kitsune.

The red head returned his gaze downward. "Hiei and the others are here." He answered softly as he loosened his hold and rolled to the side off of her.

Botan's eyes widened. "What!" She cried, her gaze shifting over to the bedroom entry way just as a loud knocking sound echoed throughout the apartment.

Kurama watched in amusement as the deity bolted upright and off the bed, wrapping the sheet around her as she hastily grabbed the clothing lying on the dresser before heading off to the bathroom and quickly shutting the door behind her. Letting out a small sigh, the kitsune rose, heading over to his closet to retrieve a pair of blue sweats which he slipped on.

%%%%%%

Kuwabara stood in front of Kurama's apartment door, his hand bunched into a fist as he knocked against it's whitened metallic surface, the sound echoing loudly in the hall. A trickle of water flowed down his forehead, annoying the large man who retracted his hand, unclenching his fist as he reached up, wiping the clear liquid that dripped from his rain soaked hair onto his skin. Normally, he was unaffected by weather conditions, about as concerned for what was going on outside as he was for which shade of lipstick looked best on his sister. But the coldness of the rain and the fury of the storm that greeted them upon their arrival in Sakaoshimi could not be ignored.

The storm seemed almost .. alive. The speed and ferocity unleashed down upon them was frantic, as if mother nature herself was desperately trying to convey some warning. But of what ? Kuwabara wondered, lowering his hand back to his side, twisting his head to the side as a brilliant flash of lightning erupted within his peripheral vision.

Although gifted with great spiritual awareness, he could not put into words the apprehension he felt or why such a simple storm was bothering him. Something bad's going to happen. And soon. He thought in concern. Feeling the need to voice his thoughts, Kuwabara turned sideways to address his best friend standing beside him. "Hey Urameshi, have you sensed or noticed anything .. strange since we arrived here?"

Yusuke kept his gaze straight ahead, brushing off the last of the rain attached to his blue squall jacket. "Other than Hiei's new get up you mean?" He replied, chucking his right thumb to the side.

Kuwabara frowned, shifting his focus upon the small man to Yusuke's right, his features growing contemplative as he took in the rather unusual sight before him. Instead of the trademark uniform Hiei usually wore, the fire demon sported a black trench coat, the front open to reveal a pair of dark blue jeans and boots as black as the oxford shirt adorning his compact torso. The fire demon had been in their company ever since meeting them at the commuter station near the center of Sakaoshimi and it was only now that Kuwabara had realized the change in Hiei's appearance. Why the hell didn't I notice this sooner? The orange haired man wondered, his thoughts darkening at his lapse in physical observation.

Hiei met his gaze, his eyes narrowing at the way the tall man was studying him. "What are you looking at?" The fire apparition asked, his voice carrying with it the usual coldness that marked his character when ever he found himself among Kuwabara's company.

If Kuwabara took offense at the demon's icy demeanor, he gave no indication, his curiosity sincere as he spoke. "I've never seen you in human clothes before Hiei."

"Yeah Hiei," Yusuke said, interjecting his thoughts into the conversation. "What's with the clothes and which hapless kid's closet did you steal them out of?" He added in a teasing voice that earned him a death glare from the fire apparition.

Hiei kept his anger in check though his voice was hard as he replied, "In case you morons have forgotten, we will be around a mass of humans and I don't want to bring anymore attention to our group than necessary."

"And you don't think you stand out in a crowd now?" Yusuke said, studying the fire demon incredulously.

"And just what in the hell is wrong with the way I look?" Hiei snapped in a low tone, his features tightening in annoyance as he eyed the two men before him.

"Other than the fact that your hair sticks straight up?" Yusuke said with a smirk, unable to stop himself from teasing his friend, his smirk widening as Kuwabara added,

"And the fact you look like a vertically challenged stalker reject."

Yusuke and Kuwabara looked at each other then burst out in laughter, much to Hiei's displeasure.

The fire demon's left eyebrow began to twitch, his patience wearing thin at the two men's negative assessment of his appearance. His right hand began to inch towards the hilt of the katana hidden within the folds of his coat and it was only the sudden opening of Kurama's apartment door that stopped him from causing what would have been a rather nasty scene.

Kuwabara and Yusuke's laughter died down, their attention shifting over to the open entryway where a half dressed Kurama stood.

The kitsune had been listening to their conversation, quite amused at Yusuke and Kuwabara's teasing of Hiei. Especially since it was the fire apparition who had spoiled his intimate moment with Botan. Serves him right. Kurama thought with a smirk only to have it fall when Hiei's voice grew silent among the laughter of the two teenage boys. And that could only lead to trouble. And the last thing I need is to have my apartment destroyed during a senseless fight. He thought with a frown. And so he had opened the door, disrupting what could have been a nasty scene.

Yusuke and Kuwabara flashed Kurama a friendly smile, all thoughts of teasing Hiei gone as they stepped forward.

"Morning Kurama." Yusuke greeted.

"Morning Kurama." Kuwabara repeated.

Hiei said nothing, just glared at the kitsune as he relaxed his hand at rested it back along his side. He knew Kurama had been listening in on their conversation and was not amused.

Kurama noticed this but kept his features neutral as he nodded, returning a greeting of his own. "Good morning gentlemen," He said in his usual soft tone that hinted none of the frustration and annoyance still lingering within his mind. "Come on in." He added, moving to the side to allow them entry inside.

The three men entered, coming to a stop in front of the entertainment center while Kurama shut the door silently behind them.

Yusuke's gaze swept slowly around the spacious interior, a whistle of admiration floating past his lips. "This is a swanky pad you've got here Kurama," He said, pivoting back around to face the kitsune. "I bet this sets you back a bit every month."

"Actually Yusuke," Kurama began, his eyes shifting briefly over to Kuwabara, watching as the tall man studied the picture frames above his student desk some distance away, before returning his attention to his friend. "I have a grant that takes care of my residence expenses, so it doesn't really cost me anything at all."

"Are you serious?!" Yusuke cried. "They actually have grants that cover that kind of stuff?"

Kurama nodded. "But I highly doubt you've come to visit me about my financial situation." He said dryly, his gaze shifting over to Hiei who now spoke.

"We came because you asked for our help Kurama," The fire demon said in a gruff tone, still a little annoyed by what had transpired in the hallway. "So the sooner we get moving, the sooner I can rid myself of this human clothing."

A look of amusement burst forth upon Kurama's face as he recalled the insult Kuwabara had leveled against his friend. He does kind of look like a stalker reject. "I don't know, Hiei," Kurama retorted, reaching up to rub his chin as he studied the fire apparition. "I think this new look suits you."

Yusuke and Kuwabara let out a small laugh, tickled by the teasing tone of the kitsune's voice.

Hiei's features darkened, his red orbs focused away from everyone though his thoughts were directed to Kurama. Stuff it fox. He sent out telepathically, the irritable tone unmistakable in it's sincerity.

Kurama, not intimidated in the slightest, smirked at the fire demon's attitude only to have his features soften when he sensed Botan enter the room.

Yusuke noticed the change first. He followed Kurama's gaze, peering over his shoulder to find the approaching figure of Botan coming towards them.

Botan, now dressed in a white Nordic sweater and light blue jeans, favored them with a friendly smile and a small wave. "Good morning boys." She greeted them in her usual cheerful manner, coming to a stop a few feet before Yusuke and Kuwabara.

Perhaps a little too cheerful. Yusuke commented mentally. He studied the deity's features, quirking an eyebrow at the almost guilty vibe he sensed radiating from underneath the smile she wore. A light clicked on inside Yusuke's mind, a knowing smirk tugging at his lips. Kurama had answered the door dressed only in a pair of sweats while Botan was fully dressed. Well, well, well. Isn't this interesting. He thought as he turned his head back around to face the kitsune. "I hope we didn't interrupt anything by coming here so early."

"Not at all," Kurama replied as he kept his cool, not about to give Yusuke the satisfaction of being right. "Although I must confess I'm surprised you arrived so early this morning." His features remained neutral even as Hiei sent out.

So you can still lie, Kurama. Good.

Only when it comes to protecting what is most dear to me. Kurama sent back, his gaze meeting Botan's, a tender smile shared between them.

Hiei saw the depths of emotion Kurama held for Botan and vice versa. He knew Kurama loved his mate. Just as Hiei loved Mukuro. And I would do anything for her. He thought, a knowing smile lighting his handsome features. I understand my friend. He replied, his mind and voice growing silent once more as he crossed his arms and closed his eyes.

Yusuke frowned, disappointed at his inability to get a rise out of Kurama. Oh well. He thought with a shrug of his shoulders. Win some, lose some. "Yeah, well," He began, reaching up to tug at his ear lobe as he explained their reasoning. "I figured the sooner we found out the truth behind this Ren jerk, the sooner we could kick his ass."

Kurama held back a laugh. My sentiments exactly. He thought as he began forward. "Allow me to change into something more suitable and we'll be off." He said, stopping beside Botan to give her a quick peck on the cheek. "I'll be right back." He whispered into her ear before moving off and down the hall towards his bedroom.

Botan watched him go, her heart a mixture of anxiety and excitement. Kurama was going to take her on a mission with him. And nobody's objecting to it. The deity smiled, happy in the confidence Kurama bestowed upon her. After all the times she had to stay behind, worrying like some nervous mother hen over them. Not knowing when or if her friends would return. That had always bothered her. If they were to be hurt, who would be there to heal them? To help them? Botan had always wanted to help. To belong. And now I do belong. The deity shifted her gaze over to the left where Kuwabara stood, her ears registering his question though her features become blank as he asked,

"So when did you get here Botan?"

Yusuke's hung his head in disbelief. I can't believe he doesn't realize she spent the night here. He thought, sighing inwardly. "Oh boy." He grumbled, shaking his head at his friend's naiveté while Hiei glared at the tall man in disdain.

"Moron." He murmured, drawing Kuwabara's attention to him.

"What?" He asked in a raised voice, looking back and forth between the two men, clearly confused by their negative reaction to his question. "What did I say?"

Yusuke, taking pity upon his best friend, waved Kuwabara forward.

Kuwabara came to stand beside Yusuke who whispered in a low tone so Botan wouldn't hear. A look of understanding lit the tall man's features. "Oh," He stated softly, turning back to Botan. His features took on a sheepish look as he reached up to rub the back of his neck. "Sorry about that Botan. I didn't know that you stayed the night with Kurama." He apologized.

Yusuke smacked his forehead in exasperation. "Kuwabara you idiot, you weren't supposed to blurt it out!" He snapped.

Kuwabara's features darkened. "Shut up Urameshi! I'm not an idiot!"

"You could have fooled me!"

The two continued to trade barbs, much to Hiei's amusement. He leaned up against the wall, watching with twinkling eyes as the two men argued.

Botan, on the other hand, turned her gaze downward, trying to hide the crimson spreading along her cheeks. Though she had grown comfortable in her level of intimacy with Kurama, she was still embarrassed about it around her friends. And to have Kuwabara bring it out to the forefront only made her more uncomfortable. What is wrong with me? She wondered. I'm not ashamed of our relationship so why am I embarrassed?

Before she had a chance to reflect further, a flash of lightning erupted outside the apartment bay window, bathing the living room in a sea of blinding white light. A thundering boom roared a second later, shaking the very foundation of the apartment building, the noise rendering the squabbling Yusuke and Kuwabara silent.

Kuwabara jerked his head to the left, studying the darkened sky outside the window with nervous eyes. "There's something not right about that storm." He mumbled under his breath.

Botan agreed, her troubled amethyst eyes now focused intently on the scene beyond the window. Thunderstorms were rare in the month of November. And even then, they didn't strike with the intensity that this storm did. So what does this mean? She wondered, her features contemplative as another flash of light broke free of the clouds, assaulting her vision once again just as she felt a hand come to rest down upon her left shoulder. Startled beyond belief, Botan cried out, nearly jumping out of her shoes as she whirled around to face ... An amused Kurama. "Kurama!" Botan shouted in irritation, her features darkening as she swatted him on the arm. "You scared the crap out of me!"

Yusuke, Kuwabara and Hiei snickered, amused by the deity's outburst and Kurama's subsequent reaction.

"Sorry, Botan." He began, a playful smile tugging at his lips as he rested his arm back to his side. "I didn't mean to frighten you."

Botan glared at the other detectives briefly before returning her attention to her mate. She studied him through narrowed eyes. She knew well enough Kurama's personality. Most of the time, he was so serious and reserved. But there were other times when his teasing nature came out into the forefront. He could be down right playful, especially with her. And he's doing that now with me. She reasoned. Recognizing his actions for what they were, her features relaxed. "It's okay Kurama." She replied, waving his apology away. "I'm just a little jumpy when it storms out that's all."

"Yeah," Kuwabara interjected. "This storm is rather freaky."

Kurama turned to face the taller man. "What makes you say that Kuwabara?"

"Well," Kuwabara began, looking out towards the window where a steady rain continued to fall, slamming into the glass with enough force to shake it. "I can't really put it into words. I just got a bad vibe coming from it. Like something big is going to happen."

"All this from some rain and a bunch of clouds," Hiei interrupted, his tone sarcastic as he added, "Sounds logical to me."

Kuwabara's features instantly darkened as he whirled around. "I don't care what you think shorty, but I'm telling you something is going to happen and we need to be ready when it does!"

"It's just a storm moron," Hiei countered darkly. "Nothing more."

"I'll show you who's a moron!" Kuwabara snapped back, his posture becoming aggressive as he stalked towards the small demon only to stop when Yusuke spoke.

"Who gives a damn about the freaking storm!" He shouted, drawing everyone's attention to him. "All I care about is finding who this Ren guy is so we can take him and his demonic posse out!"

Kuwabara lowered his head, brought back to his senses by the harsh tone in his best friend's voice. "You're right Urameshi," He grumbled, unclenching his fists and resting them back to his sides.

"Hmph." Hiei sounded then kept silent as he crossed his arms and closed his eyes.

Yusuke let out a sigh. "Well, now that we've settled that little debate, where do we start Kurama?" He asked, shifting his focus upon the red head.

Kurama met the detective's questioning gaze. "The most logical first step would be to find out where he lives and branch out from there."

"But we don't know where that is." Yusuke countered.

A knowing smile formed on Kurama's lips. "Not yet. But we will soon enough." He offered before proceeding to explain his plan.

%%%%%%%

A short while later found the detectives and Botan treading purposefully down a deserted pathway in the center of Shokubutsugaku University. Rain continued to plummet down from the sky above but the ferocity of the storm had abated, much to Botan's relief. The deity walked to the right of Kurama, a frown marring her pretty features as she stole a glance towards him.

Kurama had given each of the detectives a clear emergency poncho to wear as protection from the elements while insisting that Botan wear his dark green rain slicker. When she had asked what he would be wearing, he simply smiled and looked away. And now, outside, he was paying for his choice.

Botan watched in concern as a gust of wind blew by, slamming into the kitsune with enough force to make him flinch. Rain seeped through his clothing, the black squall jacket he wore the sole water resistant item adorning his body. His jeans seemed to cling to his legs but did not slow his forward progress as he marched onward, the red umbrella above him weaving slightly as the wind past by. If we don't get out of this soon, he may become ill. Botan thought, her eyes troubled. And I don't want to leave his side if he gets sick. She added, remembering that she was due to return to Reikai today.

Kurama, sensing the deity's concern, shifted his gaze to his right and offered her a reassuring smile.

Botan returned his smile half heartedly, her gaze moving away from her mate towards Yusuke who walked to the deity's right.

"Hey Kurama," The detective began, his head tilted slightly forward past Botan's frame, his chocolate orbs focused upon the calm emerald ones of Kurama who met his gaze. "Mind telling me again why we couldn't do this on your computer at home?"

"I need direct access to student records, Yusuke," Kurama answered softly. "And I don't have the time or inclination to search for back doors to bypass all the fire walls protecting the university's records. Trust me, this is the fastest way to find the information we seek."

Yusuke frowned. "But how can you be sure they are even open?"

Kurama turned away from Yusuke. "It's Sunday. So naturally they're closed." He answered simply, coming to a stop in front of a large brick building about four stories high.

The rest of the group stopped as well, each of them studying the building with differing degrees of opinion ranging from indifference to concern.

"Then how do you propose we get inside?" Yusuke asked, focusing his attention away from the building back towards his red haired friend.

Kurama looked to his left where Hiei stood. "How many people are inside, Hiei?"

Hiei closed his eyes, a soft green glow erupting underneath the white head band adorning his forehead. "Two guards, one on the top floor and one on the bottom. They should present no trouble Kurama." The fire demon answered, opening his eyes once more as the glow faded to nothingness.

"What are you two up to?" Botan asked, not liking where the conversation between her mate and Hiei was going.

"It is all right Botan." Kurama said, his voice reassuring as he turned to face her. Holding out the umbrella, he motioned for Botan to take it.

The deity did so.

Kurama leaned forward, giving Botan a small peck on the lips. "Wait here. I'll be right back." He whispered, pulling away from her. Before she could protest his decision, the kitsune reached into the long locks of his hair and withdrew a rose.

"Rose Whip!" He cried. Holding his hand upright towards the building, the rose changed, lengthening into a sixty foot lash. The lash shot upward, wrapping around a circulating vent on the roof top above. Certain in it's hold, Kurama rushed forward, ascending effortlessly in large bounds upon the brick wall, his display of strength and agility equal to Hiei who disappeared instantly from view, his small frame a mere black blur as he reappeared upon the rooftop a few seconds later.

Kurama, for his part, vaulted over the edge, landing in a crouch upon the hardened surface not long after Hiei's reappearance. He rose slowly, straightening his frame as he willed the lash back into a harmless seed, tucking it back into his hair before addressing his best friend. "Ready Hiei?"

The fire apparition nodded. "Let's go."

Kurama led the way, walking past Hiei towards the brown metallic door in front of him. Reaching out, the kitsune turned the knob and pulled. The door opened silently, revealing a darkened staircase that led downwards. The two descended slowly and quietly, alert to any signs of movement.

"Where is the guard now, Hiei?"

The familar green glow began anew from underneath the fire demon's bandana. "He's on the other side of this level. We should sneak past him easily enough."

Kurama nodded, waving Hiei forward towards the stairway.

Traveling down two more flights of stairs, they reached the administration building's second floor. Kurama led the way once again, his movements purposeful and silent as he walked down the lighted corridor, coming to a stop in front of an office labeled Student Records and Admissions. He studied the knob for a few seconds before reaching up to extract a different seed from his hair. Using a small burst of energy, the seed sprung to life, a green tendril slithering past his palm and into the lock. A few more seconds elapsed before a soft clicking sound was heard. Willing the plant back to it's seed form, Kurama stuck it back into his locks then proceeded to open the door. He closed the door noiselessly after Hiei entered, strolling over to the large oak hued desk where a sleekly designed black computer monitor and printer sat. Kurama reached out, pulling the black leather office chair towards him. He lowered himself carefully, scooting forward until his abdomen was flush with the keyboard hidden within a sliding shelf. Looking downward, Kurama spied the computer modem nestled within a storage space to his right. Lowering his arm, he pressed the blue start up button then raised it to turn on the monitor and the printer.

The monitor flared to life, a pleasing blue screen meeting his vision a few seconds later. A series of colorful icons popped up, drawing the kitsune's immediate attention. Kurama's features were full of concentration as he studied each little picture. His hand drifted over to the black mouse situated on a equally black mouse pad to his right. With a practiced motion, he moved the cursor above the icon labeled student records and clicked it twice. Another screen popped up, this one gray in color. An access screen. Kurama thought, his eyes narrowing as he stared at the empty white block in the center of the gray box. Although expected, he had hoped to find it unnecessary to hack into the system. Oh well. Kurama thought as he tore his gaze away from the monitor to scrutinize the office. I guess I'll just have to do this the hard way. He added as he rose from his seat and walked over to the side wall.

Hiei, who had been keeping guard near the door, caught movement to his left. Turning his head, the fire demon smirked as he watched Kurama study the plaques hanging upon the wall. "Problems, Kurama?"

"I need to find the password to enter the system." Kurama answered, his tone distant as he leaned forward, reading the name, Yoritoma Iwase, and the subsequent inscription upon a diploma within a black wood frame.

"And you think you're going to find it reading some little pieces of paper?"

Kurama smiled. "Believe it or not Hiei, you can learn much about a person simply by taking the time to observe that which they hold in high esteem."

"But you don't have time do you Kurama?"

Kurama kept his gaze focused, his features determined as replied, "I will not leave here until I have that code and the information we seek."

Hiei gave a small chuckle at the kitsune's stubbornness. Whenever Kurama was presented with a puzzle, he would not stop until he had solved it. It all went back to his past as a notorious thief. The greater the challenge, the more it intrigued him. I would expect no less from you my friend. Hiei made no noise as he walked across the far side of the room, coming around the desk to study the monitor. He rested his hands upon the keyboard, his Jagan eye flaring underneath his bandana as he used his special ability to see back into the recent past for who had last worked on the computer prior to Kurama.

The kitsune for his part was still absorbed in finding out the password. Ideas began to converge until at last he believed he had the password. "I think I've found out the code Hi ..." Kurama began then stopped when he turned around to find his best friend standing in front of the computer, a triumphant grin tugging at his lips.

"I believe I've already found it out for you." The fire apparition said smugly.

Kurama frowned but walked forward. He brought his gaze downward, noting with some surprise that Hiei did indeed unlock the student record files.

"You were right by the way," Hiei added, having read the kitsune's mind after he had entered the password he had seen through his Jagan. He slid to the side, allowing Kurama room to sit down once again. "The code was manga master."

"I figured as much," Kurama murmured as he typed Ren's name, his gaze focused intently upon the screen as he waited for the information to appear. "What with all the art degrees and awards in the field of manga. Some of the awards even labeled Mr. Iwase as a manga master."

"Hn." Hiei sounded as he crossed his arms. "A master of drawing comics. How disgustingly cute." He said gruffly. "Only someone with an ego the size of Makai could believe no one would figure out so simple a code."

"I suppose," Kurama replied softly, his features brightening as the screen came to life once more. Ren's picture popped up, followed instantly by the information the kitsune had been seeking. "Got it." He said, unable to contain his excitement at discovering his rival's home address. Hitting the control then the P button, he turned to his right and watched as a sheet of paper shot out of the printer into the holding tray above. Rising from his seat, Kurama stretched out his hand and grabbed the printed paper, folding it twice before securing it within the right pocket of his jacket. Kurama shut off each machine before rounding the desk and heading back towards the office door. He reached out and opened the door only to shut it back instantly, dropping to the floor, his back flush with the wood paneled wall on the door's left side.

Hiei followed his motion, sinking under the window just as a man came into view. The man stopped in front of the door, his short but lean frame adorned in the dark blue uniform of a university security guard. He leaned slightly forward, his gray eyes peeking through the glass into the office, a curious look upon his plain face as he reached out to turn the knob.

A brief look of panic flashed across Kurama's face as he remembered, The door is unlocked! Although more than able to handle subduing a mere human, it was the last thing he wanted to do. I cannot allow him to find us. He thought, reaching out with lightning fast reflexes, clasping the knob in a vice like grip just as the guard began to turn it.

The guard looked downward briefly then back up again. Seemingly satisfied with the state of the door, he moved on, his footsteps fading as he proceeded further and further down the corridor.

Kurama let out a sigh of relief, his emerald orbs meeting the red ones of Hiei. "How far away is he now?"

"Far enough," The smaller man replied, rising to his feet. "He's moved on to a different section. We should leave now."

Kurama rose to his feet as well. "Agreed." He said with a nod. Once in the hallway, the kitsune made sure to lock the door with his vine plant before heading back out the way they had come.

%%%%%%

I know this is shorter than my previous chapters but you see, I haven't been very motivated to write. I received far below the usual number of reviews that I'm used to and that bummed me out. Really bad. So bad that I didn't want to type for awhile. But I had to give you something since it takes me forever to update anything. Expect my chapters to be around this length from now on, since I'm really getting burned out. I may have the next chapter for you by next week since I have most of it completed but that will depend on the number of reviews I receive. Hopefully it will be of a higher number than last time. So if you want to know what happens next, leave me a few lines. Otherwise Sessha will have to take a break and go hang out with Kaoru-dono for awhile to relieve some stress.