Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Of Herbs and Healing ( Chapter 2 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Kusara 
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 09.01.2015 | Pages: 9 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 447 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Action | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 09.01.2015 | Pages: 9 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 447 | Status: Work In Progress
Another update
for this story! I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing
it! Same disclaimers apply! Now then, onto the chapter!
Chapter 2-Of Herbs and Healing Kurama sat quietly in biology class, taking notes as Mr. Iramoto went over the circulatory system. His mother had been released from the hospital and the kitsune had made sure to make her homecoming as smooth and painless as possible. With her settled at home, he could once again focus on his schooling. Though it was hardly a challenge for him, Kurama did his best to maintain an appearance of a serious student, always scoring tops in every test. He knew his mother wanted the best for her son, wanted to see him succeed and so he made sure to excel at school, knowing it would please her. His thoughts wandered a bit as he went over all that had transpired in the last few days. Though his mother was out of danger health wise, that didn't mean that external forces wouldn't threaten to take her life. After all, Kurama was a youkai and with that truth, came great risk to his loved ones. If Koenma calls on me to help, I will have to abide by his wishes, no matter the risk. But the ferry girl Botan had yet to contact him for any assistance and part of him found that disappointing, though why he felt such emotion puzzled him. Why does it bother me to not hear from her? It's not like we're friends or anything. But part of him wanted someone to talk to. Someone that would listen and understand him better. There was Hiei of course, but the fire demon was difficult to talk to at times, his loner nature making him unpredictable and dangerous. The kitsune had no doubt that the smaller man was pissed off at him for walking away from their previous alliance but Kurama did not harbor hatred for humans like his friend did. Yusuke was a Spirit World detective, an enemy to youkai but the red head liked his brashness, though the boy was a bit simple minded. And Botan. Well, what little he knew of her she seemed kindhearted and bubbly, not necessarily bad traits and she seemed willing to listen to him. His brow furrowed as he wondered if it was because she was female that he gravitated towards her the most. The last time Kurama spent any extended time around a girl, he grew to like her but could not keep her safe and thus had to wipe her memory clear of the attachment to him. But Maya had been human. Botan was a reigen, a being of Spirit World and that was both a blessing and curse. She had larger amounts of spiritual ki but she was also more at risk of violence due to being Yusuke's assistant. The kitsune shook his head, growling inwardly. I should not be thinking about this. A sudden wave of youkai energy slammed into him, his emerald orbs widening in recognition of the owner of that ki, snapping his head to gaze out the window. Hiei? What on earth is he up to? The red head's brow furrowed, his mind coming up with an answer that he did not like. He's trying to lure Yusuke into a trap. He thought, his features growing concerned as he sensed a flare in both Reikai and human spiritual energy, knowing that the deity and the detective were in trouble. I must go help them! He rose, racing out of the classroom, the shouts of his teacher unheard and ignored as he nearly jumped down the stairs to the entrance of school, moving as fast as his feet could carry him down the sidewalk, heading straight for the warehouse district, skidding to a stop before the building marked No. 4, sneaking silently inside, eyebrows rising at the burst of youkai energy, frowning as he sensed the fading spiritual ki. Botan? What is going on to cause such loss in ki? He wondered, his eyes sweeping the room, finding several Ningens knocked out cold. He weaved past the humans, jumping up on a pile of boxes, his gaze catching sight of the deity bent over, Reikai energy flowing from her hands, black bolts shooting back up, fighting the girl's attempt to keep a demon eye from opening upon a young girl's forehead. That girl must be someone special to Yusuke. He thought, briefly recalling his own situation over a year ago with Maya. He shook his head, clearing his mind, his gaze drifting down to the open area where Yusuke and Hiei, in his Jaganshi form, were battling and he frowned. The detective was struggling to keep pace with the smaller man, his body suddenly immobilized by an Jagan energy tie and if Kurama didn't intervene, Yusuke would die. The kitsune sensed his opportunity and he leaped down, using his speed to intercept the blade meant for Yusuke, grunting a bit as the sword stabbed straight through his side. “What?! Kurama?! Bastard! What do you think you're doing?!” The red head smirked, sliding his hand along the blade, slicing open his palm, tossing the blood violently outward, the red fluid splashing into the fire demon's Jagan eye and Hiei yelled in pain. “Ah! My eye !” He growled, pulling back, the sword clanging to the ground as he furiously wiped at the blood on his forehead. The red energy band around Yusuke vanished and the detective blinked, looking down at his body. “Hey, I'm free!” The human boy exclaimed, shifting his gaze over to Kurama, who spoke. “The eyes on Hiei's body are merely for show, the true power lies in his Jagan. Blood binds that power, making it useless.” He winced, bent over in pain, clutching the wound to his stomach, frowning as blood seeped through his fingers. “Are you alright?” Yusuke asked in concern, still a bit surprised at the timely intervention of the red haired youkai. Sweat beaded along Kurama's forehead but he looked over his shoulder, flashing a dry smile. “I'm fine, merely a small stomach wound. I've suffered worse injuries that this.” He limped forward, grimacing at the wave of pain that radiated from the injury, stopping as Yusuke said, “You... You didn't have to do that, Kurama. Stepping in front of Hiei like that could have killed you.” “I'm alive because of you, Yusuke,” Kurama countered, features and tone serious. “My mother is alive because of you. Please allow me to repay my debt. I will go join the ferry girl and help her keep the eye from opening on your friend's forehead.” He nodded at the detective in a sign of respect, sliding away and around a series of storage boxes, finding Botan still struggling to contain the eye. The ferry girl kept her focus on Keiko, the pain spreading up her arms as she tried to keep the youkai power from gaining the upper hand but it was hard work and she was already weakening from the effects. Hang on, Keiko. She said inwardly, gritting her teeth as her arms began to shake, biting her lip as the eye fluttered near open. Dammit, I don't have any strength left to do this! Come on Yusuke! “Perhaps I can be of some assistance?” A familiar voice called out softly and the deity turned, gasping at the sight before her. “Ku..Kurama?” She stammered in surprise, her gaze shifting from the red head's pained features to the blood spreading along the entirety of the boy's school uniform. “You're hurt! What happened?” The concern in her voice was touching and he smiled gamely at her. “A slight flesh wound. I can take care of it later. But for now, that eye on the girl's forehead is more pressing, so let me take over for a while, until Yusuke can get the antidote.” Botan blinked as Kurama knelt right beside her, his hand hovering over hers, lending his power, allowing the deity to switch out and she shifted to the opposite side, watching as the kitsune kept his focus downward. She was puzzled as to how the boy had managed to track them down, too busy and concerned at finding Keiko to have called on him for help. So how did he find us? She wondered. Her eyes trailed down to the wound on the red head's stomach, the blood still seeping out and concern crossed her features. He needs to heal that soon or he could bleed out. Kurama sensed the ferry girl's eyes on him and he grit his teeth, trying like hell to not show any pain or discomfort at the wound to his stomach. The concern for him was touching but he didn't want to encourage her desire to help him. I don't want her to worry over me. Keeping his attention on the task at hand, the kitsune managed to get the eye to nearly close, turning his head in relief as Yusuke rounded the corner, the hilt of the demon sword in his hand. “I got the antidote!” He said with a grin, crouching down beside Keiko as Kurama moved to the side, settling down against a set of boxes, watching as the detective administered the medicine. The eye drew closed and vanished, much to Yusuke's relief. “Alright! The eye is gone!” Botan sensed the youkai energy dissipate completely from the human female, a smile on her face. “She's going to recover just fine, Yusuke.” “I hope so,” The dark haired boy murmured, looking over to Kurama. “Thanks for all your help, Kurama. I would have been toast without you jumping in front of Hiei's sword like that.” “What?” Botan said, blinking as she looked away from the detective towards the kitsune. “You were stabbed by Hiei?” “Yeah... Kurama took the blow meant for me,” Yusuke said with a nod. “It was surprising to say the least.” “That was very brave of you.” Botan said, studying the fox spirit with renewed respect. Kurama felt silly for some reason and he waved off her praise. “I was merely repaying a debt to the detective. I'm sure you would have done the same, Botan.” Yusuke blinked then smirked, tone insinuating as he spoke. “Hey... does Kurama know you or something, Botan? Cause I swear I never mentioned your name before..” The deity's cheeks flushed a bit, tossing a look of irritation directly at the detective as she growled out. “Why you... Of course we know each other... but not the way you think you little perv!” “Gee... don't get your panties in a bunch...” Yusuke grumbled, a look of irritation of his own on his features as the girl glared daggers at him. “So how do you two know each other?” “Well, not that it's any of your business, but I had a message to give to Kurama after you left the hospital rooftop a few days ago. We introduced ourselves properly and then left. There, satisfied now?” She answered, crossing her arms, huffing out her displeasure at being questioned. “It's true, Yusuke,” Kurama replied, amused at the interaction between the deity and the detective. “This is not the first time Botan and I have met. Koenma asked for me to help you when the need arises and I agreed to the terms.” “Is that so?” Yusuke murmured then grinned. “That's great! It would be nice to have some help for all these cases toddler breath keeps throwing my way.” “What am I, chopped liver?” Botan said, pouting a bit. Yusuke waved her off ignoring her look of indignation. “You know what I meant, Botan. Another fighter.” “Speaking of fights..” Kurama began, looking over to Yusuke. “Just how did you manage to defeat Hiei?” “Oh.. that.. well... I knew I couldn't hit him with my spirit gun directly so I saw the Forlorn Hope and I used that to deflect my shot to hit the little bastard from behind.” “Clever,” Kurama replied. “You must have timed your shot to his movements then took him out when Hiei was in your line of fire.” “Well.. not exactly...” Yusuke countered, a sheepish look on his face. “I kinda of just guessed where he'd be and thought... why not?” “You mean to tell me you did all that on a why not?” Botan exclaimed, looking at the detective in incredulity. “What would have happened if you had failed?” “Um... get chopped up to pieces I suppose...” Kurama lowered his head, chuckling a bit at the absurdity of the boy's luck. “Here we thought you a clever strategist but really you're just a lucky fool...” “Hey....” Yusuke grumbled. “Watch it fox boy! What does that word mean anyway?” “A strategist is someone who uses their brain.” Kurama teased, chuckling at bit at the human's irritation, features growing neutral when Botan spoke. “Now, now boys... there's no need to argue with each other...” “You're right...” Kurama replied softly, flashing a placating smile. “I apologize.” Yusuke blinked, looking between the fox and the deity. Now that's weird. Botan managed to make fox boy straighten up without resorting to yelling. Usually it takes yelling and slapping to get me to behave. Then again... that's Keiko, not Botan... His gaze shifted down to study the girl, inwardly happy that he was able to save her, even if she did piss him off on occasion. “Yeah.. well... I think I should take Keiko back home.” He screwed the hilt to the demon sword back on the blade, then reached out, cradling Keiko in his arms, starting forward, stopping when Botan called out to him. “Yusuke you can't go just yet. The Spirit World police will be here shortly to arrest Hiei and retrieve the artifacts.” “Sure I can. The three artifacts are right here and Kurama is working for Koenma, too. You can explain everything to them, Botan.” He replied then continued towards the exit of the warehouse. “But Kurama's not officially part of the team yet and the items are broken... and what if Hiei wakes up before the police get here?! Yusuke are you even listening to me?!” The sound of the warehouse door opening and slamming shut answered her question and she grumbled. “I hate when he does that...” “It's alright, Botan,” Kurama interjected, drawing the deity's attention back to him. “Yusuke may be brash and simple minded at times but he means well. His friend was in grave danger and he worried over her. That's not so unusual for a boy who cares for a girl is it?” “You sound as if you know something on the matter, Kurama.” Botan said softly, tilting her head to study the red haired youkai. “Yes, well... when you've been alive as long as I have, you see many things. Being in Human World has given me new perspective and I understand why people become afraid and act out in that fear. They don't want the ones they love hurt.” Kurama answered in a calm tone. “I'm sure in your life as a ferry girl you've seen much the same behavior in humans.” “You make a fair point,” Botan conceded, looking away from the boy when she sensed the Reikai police outside the warehouse door. She rose quickly, voice a bit hasty as she said, “Please wait here, Kurama. I'll get these artifacts to the authorities and make sure Hiei is taken into custody, then we'll take a look at that wound.” “That's really not necessary...” He replied, blinking as the girl took off. He sighed but remained still, loathe to leave the girl alone in the warehouse, especially in case Hiei awoke before being restrained by the Reikai police. He rose as the girl returned to him several minutes later, wobbling a bit and blinked when the girl caught him. “Easy there, Kurama,” She said softly. “Why don't you remove your jacket and we'll get that wound mended. “Are you sure of this?” The kitsune asked, straightening his frame. “You're still rather weak from tending to Keiko.” Botan nodded. “Of course I want to help you, Kurama. After all, you will be working for us in the future and I want to make sure all the team members are in excellent health.” Kurama studied the girl for a moment, debating whether or not to take her up on her offer before he reached up and unzipped his school jacket, sliding out of it, laying it on top of nearby box. “Satisfied?” He asked, quirking an eyebrow when the ferry girl said, “Now the shirt.” “Rather bold aren't you? We barely know each other.” He replied teasingly. Botan blushed then stammered. “Y... You.. you're just as bad as Yusuke... I'm trying to help you not make you strip for my amusement....” He chuckled at her indignation but complied, unbuttoning his white dress shirt, sliding it off, bare torso exposed, now standing half naked before her. “There... satisfied?” The deity blushed a bit at the sight of a shirtless Kurama. His torso was lean but very toned. The muscles were defined,his skin was smooth and hairless and she found it hard to look away from the lovely sight of his body. Naughty Botan!... She shook her head... Mustn't stare like that! He caught her staring and in that same teasing tone he murmured. “My eyes... are up here, Botan...” She blinked, features still flush at his insinuation and she tried to be calm about it, not giving him the satisfaction of knowing he was getting a rise out her. “But it's your wound, not your eyes, that interests me, Kurama.” She countered in an even tone. Interesting retort. He thought with a smile. Not bad. Not bad at all. Botan focused her attention to the ugly gash that continued to bleed on the kitsune's lower left side and the ferry girl walked forward, brow furrowed as she held out a hand, light erupting from her palm. “I wanted to thank you by the way.” Botan said softly, her eyes focused on the wound. Kurama for his part enjoyed the flustered look on the deity's face, his teasing nature getting the better of him but he understood she was only trying to help him so he remained still, casting his gaze down as he watched Botan begin the healing process. “It was no trouble.” He replied, her touch on his wound comforting, the power of her ki chased the pain away, rendering a warm and pleasing sensation in its place. That's a handy talent. “I am curious though....” “As to what?” Kurama asked. “How did you know where to find us?” Of course she'd be curious. He thought, smiling a bit as he answered. “I sensed a wave of strong youkai energy, recognizing it as Hiei's but I also could sense your Reikai energy fading and Yusuke's human power rising so I knew you were engaged in a battle with Hiei. So I left school to come and help you.” “Help me?” “Yes.” Kurama replied. “And the detective of course.” He added. The kitsune tilted his head, studying the girl. “Why does this surprise you?” The deity looked up from the wound, finding the red head staring at her and she blushed. “I.. well.. I thought it was Yusuke alone that you sensed...” “One would think that, wouldn't they?” He replied, that same teasing tone in his voice once again. Why did his words make her blush so often? She wondered, biting her lip as she looked back down to the wound. The bleeding had stopped and the skin was slowly closing, though it was taking vast amounts of her remaining energy to heal the youkai. If I don't stop soon, I will be the one in need of healing. “Well... despite who you sensed first and why you came to our aid, it was still very brave of you to do what you to take that wound for Yusuke.” Kurama looked away for a moment, a flash of emotion on his face. “I owed him for helping me to heal my mother.” “Yusuke helped you with the mirror?” She asked, raising her eyebrows in surprise at his statement. “Yes.” Kurama replied with a nod. “If it weren't for the detective, I would be dead. I owed him my life so I stepped in to take the blow for Yusuke. To return the favor of his sacrifice.” The deity smiled, feeling pride in knowing Yusuke acted in a manner that helped someone in need. Even if it was for a dangerous youkai. The wound closed completely and Botan lifted her head, flashing a bubbly smile though she felt severely light headed. “There... all... done...” She sounded out, weaving a bit and Kurama reached out to steady her. “Botan... easy...” He frowned as the girl's eyelids closed and she collapsed forward, passing out against him and he instinctively wrapped his arms around her, his voice more full of concern than he usually allowed, looking down at the ferry girl with worried eyes. “Botan? Botan!” The girl was out cold, the sense of her ki very faint and he cursed himself for letting her heal him instead of doing it himself. I should have known this would happen. What the hell is wrong with me?! Knowing he had to help her before her life force faded completely, he grabbed his jacket and shirt, shifting the deity to cradle her in his arms, laying his clothing on her stomach as he took off, heading straight home where most of his healing herbs were stored. He made it to his house as the sun began to set, sneaking into the front yard and with silent stealth the kitsune leaped up to the lowered branch of the cherry blossom tree, making graceful and well timed jumps, landing on the first floor roof, climbing around to the open window of his room, using his strength to leap up and through, landing on the wood floor, Botan still cradled in his arms and he hurried over to his bed, laying her down carefully, removing his school jacket and shirt from her body, laying them at the foot of his bed and he foraged around the small box he stored in his closet, pulling out two jars of herbs specifically created to return energy to a dying being. Kurama returned to the girl's side, opening the jars, taking out a small clump of green matter from each, setting the jars aside as he rubbed the herbs together, absorbing the power of the plants, his hands
bursting then glowing with a purple light and he lay his hands on either side of the ferry girl's head, focusing his energy through his fingers and into Botan's skin, the power surging into her veins, carrying the healing ki down throughout her system until it was circulating, restoring her lost power and he withdrew his hands, relief filling him as the girl began to stir. He backed up, returning to his closet to grab a black t-shirt, stuffing it over his head, his hair even more unruly as he returned to his bed, watching as the girl's eyelids fluttered open. “You're awake. That's good.” Botan blinked, her gaze unfocused as she turned her head, vision returning to her, recognizing Kurama as she croaked out. “Wh... What happened?” “You passed out, I'm afraid,” Kurama answered softly, keeping his distance so as to not scare her. “You left me no choice but to bring you to my home to heal you.” “Your home?” She murmured, looking around at the room. Yellow paint lined the walls, a student desk with a swiveling chair lay to the left of her, along with two doors, both closed and she frowned at the softness underneath her, realizing she was laying on his bed and she bolted upright, swinging her legs off the side of the bed, trying to rise only to gasp and fall back down on her butt at the sudden wave of dizziness that hit her and she clutched the side of her head, blinking when she felt Kurama's hands on her shoulders. “Easy, Botan... I may have helped restore some of your energy but you're still a bit weak yet from the loss. Give the herbs a moment longer to do their job.” She lowered her hand, looking up at the kitsune. He was very close to her now, so close she could see the how vibrant his green eyes truly were. “Herbs?” She managed to squeak out, pouting at the soft chuckle that escaped the boy's lips. “Yes.. herbs.. a specialty of mine. One of the many things I grow in my garden,” He answered with a chuckle, slowly releasing his hold of her, moving to grab his desk chair, swiveling it around before sitting down, crossing his forearms along the top of the back rest. “I believe I told you before I dabble in gardening.” The deity tapped her index finger against her lips, eyes brightening as she remembered. “That's right! And you gave me that seed to plant in Reikai. Which I did by the way! I bet it will be rather pretty once the plant grows and the flowers bloom!” He enthusiasm for growing things pleased and amused him and he nodded. “That peony I gave you will bear delicate white flowers. I hope you find them to your liking.” “I'm sure I will,” She replied, flashing him a bubbly smile, her features shifting to a somber look as she gazed around the room. “You're room is a lot different than Yusuke's.” Kurama quirked an eyebrow. “How so?” “Well...it's bigger for one thing...” She began. “And you have your own bathroom it seems.. and a nice view from the window...” She paused, feeling silly for her rambling. “Sorry... sometimes I talk too much I know... but I can't help it.. especially when I'm excited or curious.” “There's nothing wrong with being excited or curious, Botan,” Kurama replied, “I find your voice rather pleasing myself.” The deity blushed. “You.. you do?” The kitsune nodded. “I do... So... whenever you have a problem or a topic you wish to talk about, my door is always open.” Botan studied the red head with mild surprise. He actually doesn't mind listening to me? “Kurama....” She murmured, feeling a bit shy at his words, wondering why it made her feel so happy to hear such a simple thing. Kurama tilted his head, wondering why she seemed so shy and quiet all the sudden, about to ask if something was wrong when an insistent beeping noise erupted in the room, watching as the girl pulled out a round object from the pocket of skirt of her school uniform, brow furrowing as the Botan opened it and a rather childish voice blared through the speaker, roaring in fury. “What the hell happened to the three artifacts, Botan?! I specifically ordered you to have Yusuke retrieve them without being damaged! Now I have to try to fix them before my father returns or else I'll be punished severely!” “I'm sorry, Lord Koenma...” She replied, tone and posture submissive as she tried to explain. “It's just that Yusuke had a bit of a hard...” “Yusuke should have been more vigilant!” Koenma bellowed, cutting the deity off. “You know what happens when things get broken around here! And why the hell aren't you back up in Reikai helping me to fix the items?!” Botan frowned. “But Kurama needed to be healed before I...” “I don't care!” Koenma interjected, cutting her off again. “Just get back up here! Koenma out!” The communicator went dark and the deity snapped it shut angrily, growling. “Well.. that's rather rude....” Her gaze shifted over to Kurama, a strange look on his face and she couldn't help but ask, “Is something wrong?” Kurama listened to the conversation between the ferry girl and the toddler lord, a rare surge of anger filling him. To talk to the girl in such a demeaning way was disrespectful and that irked him to no end. “Does he always talk to you in that manner, Botan?” The blue haired girl blinked at his question. “Well... not to that extent... though lately he has been rather stressed... and when his father comes home, Koenma will be punished for letting the items slip from security.” “That is still no excuse to talk to you like that,” The kitsune said gruffly. “If I went with you, I would make him apologize for his rude behavior.” Botan studied the boy before her, sensing a bit of anger coming from Kurama and it both puzzled and intrigued her. It was the first time she glimpsed any true emotion from him and she found his defending of her honor touching. “Well... Don't worry about me, Kurama.. I know how to put Koenma in his place...” She said, flashing him a grin, rising to materialize an oar. She rested it against her shoulder. “This oar makes for an excellent corrective device when Koenma gets out of hand.” The fox spirit quirked and eyebrow then laughed softly, relaxing his body, becoming calm once more. “Ah.. yes.. well.. that oar would do the trick...” He watched as the deity went to the window and he moved over to her, helping her up and out. “There you go...” Botan smiled at his lifting her up and helping her out, turning to face him, sliding onto the oar as she spoke. “Thank you for taking care of me, Kurama. I hope to see you again real soon.” The fox spirit gave her a soft smile. “I look forward to it, Botan. Thank you for taking the time to heal my wound,” He paused, hesitate at first before he added, “ And... do be careful heading back up to Reikai, okay?” “I promise!” Botan replied, grinning as she waved at him. “Bye, Kurama!” “Goodbye, Botan.” Kurama returned, lowering his hand when the deity was out of sight, sighing as he went over to his bed. The kitsune shifted, laying down, locking his fingers and resting his head on the open palms, staring up at the ceiling. Today had been full of danger and blood and the fox spirit knew that this wouldn't be the last time a threat to his life or those he cared about would present itself. The only question was when and who. And will I have the strength to stop the threat from succeeding?
Alright! Another chapter done! I won't always update this quickly or have chapters this long but right now I'm on a roll with the images in my head and the direction I want to follow. Way more KxB interaction in this chapter and it will only grow as we move forward into the YYH Universe. I used a combo of manga and anime events in this chapter. This won't be the first or last time I do that.. especially when we get to the part where Yukina gets rescued... in which I will follow the manga way more than the anime... Thanks to PenguinsHockey14, heartluv, Mari, Siuman, and half-breed-demon-fox for your reviews.. the more I get, the more motivated I become. So do keep the reviews coming and let me know what you think. I always enjoy hearing from those who read my drivel.
Chapter 2-Of Herbs and Healing Kurama sat quietly in biology class, taking notes as Mr. Iramoto went over the circulatory system. His mother had been released from the hospital and the kitsune had made sure to make her homecoming as smooth and painless as possible. With her settled at home, he could once again focus on his schooling. Though it was hardly a challenge for him, Kurama did his best to maintain an appearance of a serious student, always scoring tops in every test. He knew his mother wanted the best for her son, wanted to see him succeed and so he made sure to excel at school, knowing it would please her. His thoughts wandered a bit as he went over all that had transpired in the last few days. Though his mother was out of danger health wise, that didn't mean that external forces wouldn't threaten to take her life. After all, Kurama was a youkai and with that truth, came great risk to his loved ones. If Koenma calls on me to help, I will have to abide by his wishes, no matter the risk. But the ferry girl Botan had yet to contact him for any assistance and part of him found that disappointing, though why he felt such emotion puzzled him. Why does it bother me to not hear from her? It's not like we're friends or anything. But part of him wanted someone to talk to. Someone that would listen and understand him better. There was Hiei of course, but the fire demon was difficult to talk to at times, his loner nature making him unpredictable and dangerous. The kitsune had no doubt that the smaller man was pissed off at him for walking away from their previous alliance but Kurama did not harbor hatred for humans like his friend did. Yusuke was a Spirit World detective, an enemy to youkai but the red head liked his brashness, though the boy was a bit simple minded. And Botan. Well, what little he knew of her she seemed kindhearted and bubbly, not necessarily bad traits and she seemed willing to listen to him. His brow furrowed as he wondered if it was because she was female that he gravitated towards her the most. The last time Kurama spent any extended time around a girl, he grew to like her but could not keep her safe and thus had to wipe her memory clear of the attachment to him. But Maya had been human. Botan was a reigen, a being of Spirit World and that was both a blessing and curse. She had larger amounts of spiritual ki but she was also more at risk of violence due to being Yusuke's assistant. The kitsune shook his head, growling inwardly. I should not be thinking about this. A sudden wave of youkai energy slammed into him, his emerald orbs widening in recognition of the owner of that ki, snapping his head to gaze out the window. Hiei? What on earth is he up to? The red head's brow furrowed, his mind coming up with an answer that he did not like. He's trying to lure Yusuke into a trap. He thought, his features growing concerned as he sensed a flare in both Reikai and human spiritual energy, knowing that the deity and the detective were in trouble. I must go help them! He rose, racing out of the classroom, the shouts of his teacher unheard and ignored as he nearly jumped down the stairs to the entrance of school, moving as fast as his feet could carry him down the sidewalk, heading straight for the warehouse district, skidding to a stop before the building marked No. 4, sneaking silently inside, eyebrows rising at the burst of youkai energy, frowning as he sensed the fading spiritual ki. Botan? What is going on to cause such loss in ki? He wondered, his eyes sweeping the room, finding several Ningens knocked out cold. He weaved past the humans, jumping up on a pile of boxes, his gaze catching sight of the deity bent over, Reikai energy flowing from her hands, black bolts shooting back up, fighting the girl's attempt to keep a demon eye from opening upon a young girl's forehead. That girl must be someone special to Yusuke. He thought, briefly recalling his own situation over a year ago with Maya. He shook his head, clearing his mind, his gaze drifting down to the open area where Yusuke and Hiei, in his Jaganshi form, were battling and he frowned. The detective was struggling to keep pace with the smaller man, his body suddenly immobilized by an Jagan energy tie and if Kurama didn't intervene, Yusuke would die. The kitsune sensed his opportunity and he leaped down, using his speed to intercept the blade meant for Yusuke, grunting a bit as the sword stabbed straight through his side. “What?! Kurama?! Bastard! What do you think you're doing?!” The red head smirked, sliding his hand along the blade, slicing open his palm, tossing the blood violently outward, the red fluid splashing into the fire demon's Jagan eye and Hiei yelled in pain. “Ah! My eye !” He growled, pulling back, the sword clanging to the ground as he furiously wiped at the blood on his forehead. The red energy band around Yusuke vanished and the detective blinked, looking down at his body. “Hey, I'm free!” The human boy exclaimed, shifting his gaze over to Kurama, who spoke. “The eyes on Hiei's body are merely for show, the true power lies in his Jagan. Blood binds that power, making it useless.” He winced, bent over in pain, clutching the wound to his stomach, frowning as blood seeped through his fingers. “Are you alright?” Yusuke asked in concern, still a bit surprised at the timely intervention of the red haired youkai. Sweat beaded along Kurama's forehead but he looked over his shoulder, flashing a dry smile. “I'm fine, merely a small stomach wound. I've suffered worse injuries that this.” He limped forward, grimacing at the wave of pain that radiated from the injury, stopping as Yusuke said, “You... You didn't have to do that, Kurama. Stepping in front of Hiei like that could have killed you.” “I'm alive because of you, Yusuke,” Kurama countered, features and tone serious. “My mother is alive because of you. Please allow me to repay my debt. I will go join the ferry girl and help her keep the eye from opening on your friend's forehead.” He nodded at the detective in a sign of respect, sliding away and around a series of storage boxes, finding Botan still struggling to contain the eye. The ferry girl kept her focus on Keiko, the pain spreading up her arms as she tried to keep the youkai power from gaining the upper hand but it was hard work and she was already weakening from the effects. Hang on, Keiko. She said inwardly, gritting her teeth as her arms began to shake, biting her lip as the eye fluttered near open. Dammit, I don't have any strength left to do this! Come on Yusuke! “Perhaps I can be of some assistance?” A familiar voice called out softly and the deity turned, gasping at the sight before her. “Ku..Kurama?” She stammered in surprise, her gaze shifting from the red head's pained features to the blood spreading along the entirety of the boy's school uniform. “You're hurt! What happened?” The concern in her voice was touching and he smiled gamely at her. “A slight flesh wound. I can take care of it later. But for now, that eye on the girl's forehead is more pressing, so let me take over for a while, until Yusuke can get the antidote.” Botan blinked as Kurama knelt right beside her, his hand hovering over hers, lending his power, allowing the deity to switch out and she shifted to the opposite side, watching as the kitsune kept his focus downward. She was puzzled as to how the boy had managed to track them down, too busy and concerned at finding Keiko to have called on him for help. So how did he find us? She wondered. Her eyes trailed down to the wound on the red head's stomach, the blood still seeping out and concern crossed her features. He needs to heal that soon or he could bleed out. Kurama sensed the ferry girl's eyes on him and he grit his teeth, trying like hell to not show any pain or discomfort at the wound to his stomach. The concern for him was touching but he didn't want to encourage her desire to help him. I don't want her to worry over me. Keeping his attention on the task at hand, the kitsune managed to get the eye to nearly close, turning his head in relief as Yusuke rounded the corner, the hilt of the demon sword in his hand. “I got the antidote!” He said with a grin, crouching down beside Keiko as Kurama moved to the side, settling down against a set of boxes, watching as the detective administered the medicine. The eye drew closed and vanished, much to Yusuke's relief. “Alright! The eye is gone!” Botan sensed the youkai energy dissipate completely from the human female, a smile on her face. “She's going to recover just fine, Yusuke.” “I hope so,” The dark haired boy murmured, looking over to Kurama. “Thanks for all your help, Kurama. I would have been toast without you jumping in front of Hiei's sword like that.” “What?” Botan said, blinking as she looked away from the detective towards the kitsune. “You were stabbed by Hiei?” “Yeah... Kurama took the blow meant for me,” Yusuke said with a nod. “It was surprising to say the least.” “That was very brave of you.” Botan said, studying the fox spirit with renewed respect. Kurama felt silly for some reason and he waved off her praise. “I was merely repaying a debt to the detective. I'm sure you would have done the same, Botan.” Yusuke blinked then smirked, tone insinuating as he spoke. “Hey... does Kurama know you or something, Botan? Cause I swear I never mentioned your name before..” The deity's cheeks flushed a bit, tossing a look of irritation directly at the detective as she growled out. “Why you... Of course we know each other... but not the way you think you little perv!” “Gee... don't get your panties in a bunch...” Yusuke grumbled, a look of irritation of his own on his features as the girl glared daggers at him. “So how do you two know each other?” “Well, not that it's any of your business, but I had a message to give to Kurama after you left the hospital rooftop a few days ago. We introduced ourselves properly and then left. There, satisfied now?” She answered, crossing her arms, huffing out her displeasure at being questioned. “It's true, Yusuke,” Kurama replied, amused at the interaction between the deity and the detective. “This is not the first time Botan and I have met. Koenma asked for me to help you when the need arises and I agreed to the terms.” “Is that so?” Yusuke murmured then grinned. “That's great! It would be nice to have some help for all these cases toddler breath keeps throwing my way.” “What am I, chopped liver?” Botan said, pouting a bit. Yusuke waved her off ignoring her look of indignation. “You know what I meant, Botan. Another fighter.” “Speaking of fights..” Kurama began, looking over to Yusuke. “Just how did you manage to defeat Hiei?” “Oh.. that.. well... I knew I couldn't hit him with my spirit gun directly so I saw the Forlorn Hope and I used that to deflect my shot to hit the little bastard from behind.” “Clever,” Kurama replied. “You must have timed your shot to his movements then took him out when Hiei was in your line of fire.” “Well.. not exactly...” Yusuke countered, a sheepish look on his face. “I kinda of just guessed where he'd be and thought... why not?” “You mean to tell me you did all that on a why not?” Botan exclaimed, looking at the detective in incredulity. “What would have happened if you had failed?” “Um... get chopped up to pieces I suppose...” Kurama lowered his head, chuckling a bit at the absurdity of the boy's luck. “Here we thought you a clever strategist but really you're just a lucky fool...” “Hey....” Yusuke grumbled. “Watch it fox boy! What does that word mean anyway?” “A strategist is someone who uses their brain.” Kurama teased, chuckling at bit at the human's irritation, features growing neutral when Botan spoke. “Now, now boys... there's no need to argue with each other...” “You're right...” Kurama replied softly, flashing a placating smile. “I apologize.” Yusuke blinked, looking between the fox and the deity. Now that's weird. Botan managed to make fox boy straighten up without resorting to yelling. Usually it takes yelling and slapping to get me to behave. Then again... that's Keiko, not Botan... His gaze shifted down to study the girl, inwardly happy that he was able to save her, even if she did piss him off on occasion. “Yeah.. well... I think I should take Keiko back home.” He screwed the hilt to the demon sword back on the blade, then reached out, cradling Keiko in his arms, starting forward, stopping when Botan called out to him. “Yusuke you can't go just yet. The Spirit World police will be here shortly to arrest Hiei and retrieve the artifacts.” “Sure I can. The three artifacts are right here and Kurama is working for Koenma, too. You can explain everything to them, Botan.” He replied then continued towards the exit of the warehouse. “But Kurama's not officially part of the team yet and the items are broken... and what if Hiei wakes up before the police get here?! Yusuke are you even listening to me?!” The sound of the warehouse door opening and slamming shut answered her question and she grumbled. “I hate when he does that...” “It's alright, Botan,” Kurama interjected, drawing the deity's attention back to him. “Yusuke may be brash and simple minded at times but he means well. His friend was in grave danger and he worried over her. That's not so unusual for a boy who cares for a girl is it?” “You sound as if you know something on the matter, Kurama.” Botan said softly, tilting her head to study the red haired youkai. “Yes, well... when you've been alive as long as I have, you see many things. Being in Human World has given me new perspective and I understand why people become afraid and act out in that fear. They don't want the ones they love hurt.” Kurama answered in a calm tone. “I'm sure in your life as a ferry girl you've seen much the same behavior in humans.” “You make a fair point,” Botan conceded, looking away from the boy when she sensed the Reikai police outside the warehouse door. She rose quickly, voice a bit hasty as she said, “Please wait here, Kurama. I'll get these artifacts to the authorities and make sure Hiei is taken into custody, then we'll take a look at that wound.” “That's really not necessary...” He replied, blinking as the girl took off. He sighed but remained still, loathe to leave the girl alone in the warehouse, especially in case Hiei awoke before being restrained by the Reikai police. He rose as the girl returned to him several minutes later, wobbling a bit and blinked when the girl caught him. “Easy there, Kurama,” She said softly. “Why don't you remove your jacket and we'll get that wound mended. “Are you sure of this?” The kitsune asked, straightening his frame. “You're still rather weak from tending to Keiko.” Botan nodded. “Of course I want to help you, Kurama. After all, you will be working for us in the future and I want to make sure all the team members are in excellent health.” Kurama studied the girl for a moment, debating whether or not to take her up on her offer before he reached up and unzipped his school jacket, sliding out of it, laying it on top of nearby box. “Satisfied?” He asked, quirking an eyebrow when the ferry girl said, “Now the shirt.” “Rather bold aren't you? We barely know each other.” He replied teasingly. Botan blushed then stammered. “Y... You.. you're just as bad as Yusuke... I'm trying to help you not make you strip for my amusement....” He chuckled at her indignation but complied, unbuttoning his white dress shirt, sliding it off, bare torso exposed, now standing half naked before her. “There... satisfied?” The deity blushed a bit at the sight of a shirtless Kurama. His torso was lean but very toned. The muscles were defined,his skin was smooth and hairless and she found it hard to look away from the lovely sight of his body. Naughty Botan!... She shook her head... Mustn't stare like that! He caught her staring and in that same teasing tone he murmured. “My eyes... are up here, Botan...” She blinked, features still flush at his insinuation and she tried to be calm about it, not giving him the satisfaction of knowing he was getting a rise out her. “But it's your wound, not your eyes, that interests me, Kurama.” She countered in an even tone. Interesting retort. He thought with a smile. Not bad. Not bad at all. Botan focused her attention to the ugly gash that continued to bleed on the kitsune's lower left side and the ferry girl walked forward, brow furrowed as she held out a hand, light erupting from her palm. “I wanted to thank you by the way.” Botan said softly, her eyes focused on the wound. Kurama for his part enjoyed the flustered look on the deity's face, his teasing nature getting the better of him but he understood she was only trying to help him so he remained still, casting his gaze down as he watched Botan begin the healing process. “It was no trouble.” He replied, her touch on his wound comforting, the power of her ki chased the pain away, rendering a warm and pleasing sensation in its place. That's a handy talent. “I am curious though....” “As to what?” Kurama asked. “How did you know where to find us?” Of course she'd be curious. He thought, smiling a bit as he answered. “I sensed a wave of strong youkai energy, recognizing it as Hiei's but I also could sense your Reikai energy fading and Yusuke's human power rising so I knew you were engaged in a battle with Hiei. So I left school to come and help you.” “Help me?” “Yes.” Kurama replied. “And the detective of course.” He added. The kitsune tilted his head, studying the girl. “Why does this surprise you?” The deity looked up from the wound, finding the red head staring at her and she blushed. “I.. well.. I thought it was Yusuke alone that you sensed...” “One would think that, wouldn't they?” He replied, that same teasing tone in his voice once again. Why did his words make her blush so often? She wondered, biting her lip as she looked back down to the wound. The bleeding had stopped and the skin was slowly closing, though it was taking vast amounts of her remaining energy to heal the youkai. If I don't stop soon, I will be the one in need of healing. “Well... despite who you sensed first and why you came to our aid, it was still very brave of you to do what you to take that wound for Yusuke.” Kurama looked away for a moment, a flash of emotion on his face. “I owed him for helping me to heal my mother.” “Yusuke helped you with the mirror?” She asked, raising her eyebrows in surprise at his statement. “Yes.” Kurama replied with a nod. “If it weren't for the detective, I would be dead. I owed him my life so I stepped in to take the blow for Yusuke. To return the favor of his sacrifice.” The deity smiled, feeling pride in knowing Yusuke acted in a manner that helped someone in need. Even if it was for a dangerous youkai. The wound closed completely and Botan lifted her head, flashing a bubbly smile though she felt severely light headed. “There... all... done...” She sounded out, weaving a bit and Kurama reached out to steady her. “Botan... easy...” He frowned as the girl's eyelids closed and she collapsed forward, passing out against him and he instinctively wrapped his arms around her, his voice more full of concern than he usually allowed, looking down at the ferry girl with worried eyes. “Botan? Botan!” The girl was out cold, the sense of her ki very faint and he cursed himself for letting her heal him instead of doing it himself. I should have known this would happen. What the hell is wrong with me?! Knowing he had to help her before her life force faded completely, he grabbed his jacket and shirt, shifting the deity to cradle her in his arms, laying his clothing on her stomach as he took off, heading straight home where most of his healing herbs were stored. He made it to his house as the sun began to set, sneaking into the front yard and with silent stealth the kitsune leaped up to the lowered branch of the cherry blossom tree, making graceful and well timed jumps, landing on the first floor roof, climbing around to the open window of his room, using his strength to leap up and through, landing on the wood floor, Botan still cradled in his arms and he hurried over to his bed, laying her down carefully, removing his school jacket and shirt from her body, laying them at the foot of his bed and he foraged around the small box he stored in his closet, pulling out two jars of herbs specifically created to return energy to a dying being. Kurama returned to the girl's side, opening the jars, taking out a small clump of green matter from each, setting the jars aside as he rubbed the herbs together, absorbing the power of the plants, his hands
bursting then glowing with a purple light and he lay his hands on either side of the ferry girl's head, focusing his energy through his fingers and into Botan's skin, the power surging into her veins, carrying the healing ki down throughout her system until it was circulating, restoring her lost power and he withdrew his hands, relief filling him as the girl began to stir. He backed up, returning to his closet to grab a black t-shirt, stuffing it over his head, his hair even more unruly as he returned to his bed, watching as the girl's eyelids fluttered open. “You're awake. That's good.” Botan blinked, her gaze unfocused as she turned her head, vision returning to her, recognizing Kurama as she croaked out. “Wh... What happened?” “You passed out, I'm afraid,” Kurama answered softly, keeping his distance so as to not scare her. “You left me no choice but to bring you to my home to heal you.” “Your home?” She murmured, looking around at the room. Yellow paint lined the walls, a student desk with a swiveling chair lay to the left of her, along with two doors, both closed and she frowned at the softness underneath her, realizing she was laying on his bed and she bolted upright, swinging her legs off the side of the bed, trying to rise only to gasp and fall back down on her butt at the sudden wave of dizziness that hit her and she clutched the side of her head, blinking when she felt Kurama's hands on her shoulders. “Easy, Botan... I may have helped restore some of your energy but you're still a bit weak yet from the loss. Give the herbs a moment longer to do their job.” She lowered her hand, looking up at the kitsune. He was very close to her now, so close she could see the how vibrant his green eyes truly were. “Herbs?” She managed to squeak out, pouting at the soft chuckle that escaped the boy's lips. “Yes.. herbs.. a specialty of mine. One of the many things I grow in my garden,” He answered with a chuckle, slowly releasing his hold of her, moving to grab his desk chair, swiveling it around before sitting down, crossing his forearms along the top of the back rest. “I believe I told you before I dabble in gardening.” The deity tapped her index finger against her lips, eyes brightening as she remembered. “That's right! And you gave me that seed to plant in Reikai. Which I did by the way! I bet it will be rather pretty once the plant grows and the flowers bloom!” He enthusiasm for growing things pleased and amused him and he nodded. “That peony I gave you will bear delicate white flowers. I hope you find them to your liking.” “I'm sure I will,” She replied, flashing him a bubbly smile, her features shifting to a somber look as she gazed around the room. “You're room is a lot different than Yusuke's.” Kurama quirked an eyebrow. “How so?” “Well...it's bigger for one thing...” She began. “And you have your own bathroom it seems.. and a nice view from the window...” She paused, feeling silly for her rambling. “Sorry... sometimes I talk too much I know... but I can't help it.. especially when I'm excited or curious.” “There's nothing wrong with being excited or curious, Botan,” Kurama replied, “I find your voice rather pleasing myself.” The deity blushed. “You.. you do?” The kitsune nodded. “I do... So... whenever you have a problem or a topic you wish to talk about, my door is always open.” Botan studied the red head with mild surprise. He actually doesn't mind listening to me? “Kurama....” She murmured, feeling a bit shy at his words, wondering why it made her feel so happy to hear such a simple thing. Kurama tilted his head, wondering why she seemed so shy and quiet all the sudden, about to ask if something was wrong when an insistent beeping noise erupted in the room, watching as the girl pulled out a round object from the pocket of skirt of her school uniform, brow furrowing as the Botan opened it and a rather childish voice blared through the speaker, roaring in fury. “What the hell happened to the three artifacts, Botan?! I specifically ordered you to have Yusuke retrieve them without being damaged! Now I have to try to fix them before my father returns or else I'll be punished severely!” “I'm sorry, Lord Koenma...” She replied, tone and posture submissive as she tried to explain. “It's just that Yusuke had a bit of a hard...” “Yusuke should have been more vigilant!” Koenma bellowed, cutting the deity off. “You know what happens when things get broken around here! And why the hell aren't you back up in Reikai helping me to fix the items?!” Botan frowned. “But Kurama needed to be healed before I...” “I don't care!” Koenma interjected, cutting her off again. “Just get back up here! Koenma out!” The communicator went dark and the deity snapped it shut angrily, growling. “Well.. that's rather rude....” Her gaze shifted over to Kurama, a strange look on his face and she couldn't help but ask, “Is something wrong?” Kurama listened to the conversation between the ferry girl and the toddler lord, a rare surge of anger filling him. To talk to the girl in such a demeaning way was disrespectful and that irked him to no end. “Does he always talk to you in that manner, Botan?” The blue haired girl blinked at his question. “Well... not to that extent... though lately he has been rather stressed... and when his father comes home, Koenma will be punished for letting the items slip from security.” “That is still no excuse to talk to you like that,” The kitsune said gruffly. “If I went with you, I would make him apologize for his rude behavior.” Botan studied the boy before her, sensing a bit of anger coming from Kurama and it both puzzled and intrigued her. It was the first time she glimpsed any true emotion from him and she found his defending of her honor touching. “Well... Don't worry about me, Kurama.. I know how to put Koenma in his place...” She said, flashing him a grin, rising to materialize an oar. She rested it against her shoulder. “This oar makes for an excellent corrective device when Koenma gets out of hand.” The fox spirit quirked and eyebrow then laughed softly, relaxing his body, becoming calm once more. “Ah.. yes.. well.. that oar would do the trick...” He watched as the deity went to the window and he moved over to her, helping her up and out. “There you go...” Botan smiled at his lifting her up and helping her out, turning to face him, sliding onto the oar as she spoke. “Thank you for taking care of me, Kurama. I hope to see you again real soon.” The fox spirit gave her a soft smile. “I look forward to it, Botan. Thank you for taking the time to heal my wound,” He paused, hesitate at first before he added, “ And... do be careful heading back up to Reikai, okay?” “I promise!” Botan replied, grinning as she waved at him. “Bye, Kurama!” “Goodbye, Botan.” Kurama returned, lowering his hand when the deity was out of sight, sighing as he went over to his bed. The kitsune shifted, laying down, locking his fingers and resting his head on the open palms, staring up at the ceiling. Today had been full of danger and blood and the fox spirit knew that this wouldn't be the last time a threat to his life or those he cared about would present itself. The only question was when and who. And will I have the strength to stop the threat from succeeding?
Alright! Another chapter done! I won't always update this quickly or have chapters this long but right now I'm on a roll with the images in my head and the direction I want to follow. Way more KxB interaction in this chapter and it will only grow as we move forward into the YYH Universe. I used a combo of manga and anime events in this chapter. This won't be the first or last time I do that.. especially when we get to the part where Yukina gets rescued... in which I will follow the manga way more than the anime... Thanks to PenguinsHockey14, heartluv, Mari, Siuman, and half-breed-demon-fox for your reviews.. the more I get, the more motivated I become. So do keep the reviews coming and let me know what you think. I always enjoy hearing from those who read my drivel.