Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Late nights turned great!! ❯ Episode 3: What Lurks in the Night ( Chapter 3 )

RedFox here, just to let you know that Starzie will be back the 22nd. I personally can't wait, so we can finish the rest of season one. Less than two weeks!! *dances* Ahem. I've noticed that no one is really reading this, so lalalalalalalalalala.. for those few who have read it, I apologize, but I only see 14 visits listed. I feel kinda bummed. I was hoping for more of a response than that. Oh well. I'll just hug my special blanky and pray that more people read, and some actually review. SO, on with the story. *Pleading* Please review!

RedFox….

Red: *Snuffles as he puts her down.*

Yusuke: *Running laps with Kuwabara.*

Hiei: All right, let's go.

Starz: *They train until evening then she goes to bed at nightfall. Starz went to her guest room, planning to go to sleep, but she just isn't tired. So she lays there on her futon, starring boredly at the ceiling. No clue how long this goes on, but after a while she suddenly hears something out in the hallway. Curious, she sticks her head out and looks around.* Huh? That's weird, I swore I heard something... *She almost goes back in, but she sees a shadow dart off down the hall. Curious, she follows, being as quiet as she can.*

Red: *Out like a light when something comes into view in her window.*

-In the woods-

??1: This is too easy

Hiei: Hn. *Looks out from his tree to see a shadow heading off for the woods with Starz following intently.* What is she up to now? *Leaps out of tree and follows.*

-At Red's room-

??2: *Right outside the window looking in with a devious smile on its face* Heh. *The window suddenly opens as if by magic and the shadowy figure creeps in silently.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz is still following, thinking maybe its Hiei.*

Hiei: *Following at a respectable distance to keep an eye on the happenings.* Where is this leading to? *Puts a hand on his katana.*

??1: We'll have them in no time.

-Red's room-

Red: *She snuffles and rolls over.*

??2: *The shadow creeps closer, eyes intent on Red's sleeping form. It nearly steps on Red's book bag in the dark, but it kicks it aside, where the bag knocks into the nightstand, knocking over the lamp in the process.* Damn, ningen contraptions. *The shadow darts forward and nabs the girl.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz is almost out of breath because of the run, and she comes to a stop, hands on her knees as she breathes in deeply, catching her breath.* Jeez, why does Hiei have to be so fricking fast?

Hiei: *Walking up behind the demon.* I don't think you want to do that.

??1: *Runs forward to try and grab his prey but is stopped just short of her with a sword.*

Hiei: Did you not hear me? *Slashes the demon in two before Starz' eyes.*

-In Red's room-

Red: *Shifts at the noise, but stays asleep and the demon picks her up with no problem, blankets and all.*

??2: *The demon gets to the window just as Red's door suddenly opens*

Kurama: *Had heard the crash of the lamp and gone to investigate, he opens the door and sees the demon at the window with Red.* Stop! *He rushes in.*

??2: Shit! *The demon barrels out the window, forgetting about the tree just outside, and winds up getting knocked in the face. He drops Red in surprise as he clutches his face.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz is frozen in shock as the demon falls into two before her eyes.* oO *she takes a step back, eyes widening even more as she gives Hiei a fearful look.*

Hiei: You don't think I'd actually let you take someone from here did you? *Pokes demon's remains with his katana.* And you...*points to Starz* What were you doing out here this late at night following some unknown shadow?

-Outside Red's window-

Red: *Woken by crashing through the glass of her room window, she looks fearfully up at the offending demon, trying to hold on to her sanity.*

??2: *The demon curses itself for a moment, and then advances on Red.*

Kurama: *He darts through the window and lands gracefully behind the demon* Freeze, demon! *He reaches behind into his hair and suddenly pulls out a red rose.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *She stutters for a moment, before getting some of wits back.* I-I thought it was you!

Hiei: *Looks startled for a moment.* Why on earth would you be following me?

-Outside window-

Red: *O.O at the demon and she squeaks in a poor imitation of a scream as he advances. Tries to scoot away, but only succeeds in further cutting her hands on the shards of glass.*

??2: *The demon glances at Kurama and makes a grab for the stunned girl on the ground.*

Kurama: *He suddenly snaps the rose and it turns into a whip. With another snap, the demons wrist is caught and he pulls back, dragging the demon away from Red. His expression is dead serious as he asks...* Who are you? Why are you after Miss Red?

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz starts stuttering again, going red in the face.* Er... n-no reason! Really.... *weak laugh*

Hiei: *Looks unconvinced at her stuttering.* It doesn't matter, get back inside, now. I have some things to figure out.

-Outside the window-

Red: *Squeaks again as Kurama looks ready to kill the enemy. Gives a pleading, "Oh, god, is he really gonna kill it?" look his way.*

??2: *The demon glares daggers at Kurama, but refuses to give any information to the enemy* Fuck you, Kitsune! *He suddenly brings a dagger out of nowhere, and slices through the whip around his wrist, and he darts off, calling over his shoulder.* Expect my return, and next time I wont fail! *Disappears off into the woods.*

Kurama: *He lets the demon go, and his rose whip glows before disappearing into thin air.* Miss Red, are you all right? *He kneels down beside her to get a good look at her.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz gives him a wide-eyed look.* By myself? I'm not walking through these woods back to the temple alone! There might be more... more of those things!!!!! *Points at the mass of demon remains.*

Hiei: *Sighs* All right. I'll take you there. But you have to stay there when we arrive, no more of this heading out business.

-Outside window-

Red: *A single tear runs down her face, stinging the cuts there. She rubs at them to stop them from stinging and looks at Kurama with an incredulous look.*

Kurama: *He wipes her tear away, being careful of the cuts.* Don't worry, Miss Red. It's over. He won't be back for a while. Can you stand?

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz huffs, her arms crossed* Well excuse me! *She starts walking off toward the temple, not even bothering to see if Hiei is following.*

??2: *He's been dashing through the forest, silent and unseen, but he stops when he sees Starz, and Hiei. Frowning, he growls mentally, So he failed... Perhaps I can rectify that mistake... * He waits until the girl has walked ahead a little, and then drops from his perch in the tree right on top of the girl. He pins her arms to her sides and brings his dagger to her neck.* *To Hiei* No rash moves, my friend, or the girl loses her head.

Hiei: *Freezes at the sight of another demon.* Hn. You think I care about the Baka Ningen? Do your worst and then I'll kill you for trespassing.

-Outside window-

Red: *Still looks fearfully at Kurama, never having seen him so ruthless before, she is slightly scared of him now. Nonetheless, she nods, leans on her hands and winces as she pushes herself to her knees and finally to her feet, though she's a little wobbly from just having a jolt of adrenaline course through her system.*

Kurama: *He helps balance her, slightly concerned as she winces.* Are you sure you're all right? I can carry you inside...

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz is once more frozen in shock, not at demon in particular, but at what Hiei just coldly stated. Her eyes, slightly wide take on a hurt, almost betrayed light.*

??2: *The demon smirks.* Oh, really now? I think you hurt her feelings. *He laughs, and steps back, dragging Starz with him.* And if you truly don't care, I think I'll take her with me back to the Makai. *He steps further away, an easy task since Starz isn't fighting back.*

Hiei: *Turns and jumps into the trees. Moves around without demon noticing and stands behind him.* But I said I wouldn't let your friend take someone from here either, and I don't want to play favorites. So just give her back and you won't get hurt . . . much.

-Outside window-

Red: *Nods and grabs hold of his sleeve, leaving a stain from the glass cuts. She starts to slowly pick her way through the shards to avoid further painful shallow cuts.*

Kurama: *He notices the stain on his sleeve, and frowns slightly. Stepping forward he scoops the girl into his arms.* Perhaps it would be best if I carried you. *Not waiting for her response, he takes one leap and goes through the window and lands gracefully back in her room.*

-In the forest-

??2: *The demon starts, surprised to hear Hiei behind him. He turns slowly, his grip tightening on the girl.* Fast, aren't we? *He applies the knife to Starz neck with just enough pressure that the blade draws a thin line of blood.* I wouldn't do that again...

Starz: *Starz whimpers, trying to squirm away from the knife, but the demon's grip is too tight.*

Hiei: *Looks at Starz meaningfully.* I'm much faster than you. It seems you have a choice, Kono san-shita {means third-rate hack.}, of letting her go, or facing this speed before you can kill her. Do you really want to face those odds?

-In Red's room-

Red: *Looks fairly angry at not being able to make it in without help, but grateful for not having to walk over glass to do so. Brushes herself off, if only to wince at the remembrance of cuts on her hands. And now stains on her nightclothes. She mouths the word 'dammit'.*

Kurama: *He makes her sit down on the bed.* Wait here for a moment. I'm going to get something to clean those cuts with, all right? *He waits for her to respond and after she does, he walks out to get the first aid kit.*

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz seems to calm after she sees Hiei looking at her meaningfully, she gives the tiniest of nods to show she understands.*

??2: *The demon's eyes narrow and he snarls at Hiei.* You may be right about your speed, but that wagging tongue of yours is going to come back to haunt you! You want this ningen filth? Catch! *The demon jerks the girl forward, and backhands her with enough force to send her flying a few feet away where she crashes into a tree. Not even waiting for anyone reaction, he darts off into the woods.*

Hiei: *Calmly puts away his katana and moves over to the motionless Starz. He pats her face lightly to wake her if at all possible.*

-In Red's room-

Red: *Cursing herself for not being stronger and braver, she moves to the hardest object in the room, the dresser and pounds it to kingdom come.*

Kurama: *He comes walking in right when Red is punching the dresser. He sweat drops.* Is that really necessary?

-In the forest-

Starz: *Starz groans, her eyes flutter open half way. Pain suddenly clouds her brain and she curls up into a ball clutching her head and hissing in pain.*

Hiei: That wasn't how it was supposed to happen. Demon was smarter than he looked. *Picks up Starz and carries her to the temple.* Will you be all right?

-Red's room-

Red: *Nods vigorously and punches it one last hard time with all of her strength, causing the wood to splinter and her to grab her hand which is now starting to swell.*

Kurama: *He sweat drops one more time, before setting the first aid kit on the bed and walking over to Red.* You really should calm down before you hurt yourself. *He takes her swelling hand into his hand and gently kisses it before pulling over to the bed.* Let's patch you up, shall we?

-Near the temple-

Starz: *Starz whimpers still clutching her head, but that's all she can manage.*

Hiei: *Sighs* I suppose that's my fault for provoking him. *Walks into the den, sets her down, and starts to look for Genkai or his sister.*

-Red's Room-

Red: *hisses sharply as he takes her hand. She looks angrily back at the splintered wood, and with even more of a glare at her weak hand, which had caused her more embarrassment.*

Kurama: *He opens the first aid kit and gets what he needs to first clean the cuts: peroxide, and some cotton balls. Putting the peroxide on the cotton balls, he cleans up her cuts, making sure to be gentle.*

-Den-

Starz: *Starz sits on the floor, still holding her head, and watches as Hiei walks out, when he's gone she glares at the ground, mad herself for being so weak in front of him.*

Hiei: *Heads to Genkai's room and knocks. He's not stupid enough to walk into her room at night.*

-Red's Room-

Red: *Even though he tries to be gentle, it ends up stinging like hell, and she looks away as she winces, trying not to let him see further weakness. A tear leaks out of the eye away from him.*

Kurama: *He's focusing on the cuts so he doesn't notice the stray tear, once he's done, he puts that stuff away and grabs some Band-Aids to cover the cuts.* Feeling any better, Miss Red?

-Genkai's room-

Genkai: *Knows immediately it's not Yusuke or Kuwabara, because they never knock. She gets up, and opens her door, only her head sticking out.* What is it?

Hiei: We have someone for you attend to. There was a demon attack and she was injured as I tried to get it to leave her alone. *Tries not to let the worry show on his face.*

-Red's Room-

Red: *looks up and smiles wanly. Looks slightly trancelike as she stares up. Thinking what can I do to save these people? I don't want to be the cause of their destruction. The images play through her mind, though not as intense as the first vision, and it appears she's falling asleep.*

Kurama: *He notices she looks like she's falling asleep, so he takes a seat on the edge of the bed, and lays her down, pulling the blanket up over her.* Get some rest, Miss Red.

-In front of Genkai's room-

Genkai: *She looks surprised at this.* A demon attacked? Who did it attack, and where is she? *She steps out of her room.* It would seem our guests have caught someone's attention...

Hiei: *Looks at Genkai seriously.* Yes. At least two of them{demons}. One attacked Starz but I got him, but then another came from somewhere near the temple and attacked us too. She's in the den, hopefully sitting still.

-Red's Room-

Red: *Let's herself be put into the bed, but as another vision recedes, she grabs out to Kurama's mind and scenes of him calling her 'Miss Red' multiple times leaks into his head. Her mind silently asks 'Why? why?. . . why?'*

Kurama: *As this happens, Kurama's eyes go wide. The only other person he's ever met that could send him anything mentally was Hiei. He's also confused by what she's sending.*

-Outside Genkai's room-

Genkai: I see. How badly is she hurt? *She starts walking toward the den.*

Hiei: *Looks at her quizzically* How should I know? She held her head and won't answer me, though she is awake. You are the healer.

-Red's Room-

Red: *Now the images come in clearer in his mind as if to make him understand before she falls asleep, "Miss Red, Miss Red, Miss Red" at random scenes where he says it. 'Why? Why? Why?"*

Kurama: *Feeling guilty, though he still doesn't understand why him saying Miss Red would upset her, he sits there for a moment just staring at the ground, letting the scenes run through his mind in hope of better understanding them. But the mental contact proves tiring, and not really thinking about what he's doing, he lays down next to Red, and pulls her close as he falls asleep.*

-With Genkai and Hiei-

Genkai: A head injury? Not good. *They reach the den and Genkai walks in to see Starz in the middle of the floor, glaring off into space, and she has her hands clutching her head. She walks up to her, and kneels down in front of her, gently prying the girl's hands away.* Let me see your injury.

Starz: *She squirms away from the older woman, and shakes her head, regretting it as the motion causes another wave of pain to shoot through her head.* Ow...owowow...

Hiei: *Grabs Starz' shoulders before she can make it any worse.* Hold still and let her heal you!

-Red's Room-

Red: *After he falls asleep she is trapped in her own mind and continues the previous line of thought as she drifts off to sleep, but not before sending comfort to him for putting up with her entering his mind.*

Kurama: *When she sends the comfort, his arms tighten slightly around her, and small smile tugs at his lips.*

-Den-

Starz: *Starz finally holds still, wincing as Genkai looks over her wound.*

Genkai: *Her eyes narrow upon seeing the gash on the girl's head. With her trained eyes, she knows this is no normal injury.* Keep her here, Hiei, and make sure she doesn't move around. I need to get Yukina for this. *She stands and exits quickly.*

Starz: *When Genkai leaves, she leans back into Hiei, trying and failing to keep from wincing from the pain. Thinking - Hiei must think I so weak... she sighs, her eyes watching the floor and refusing to look at Hiei.*

Hiei: *Looks at the sad form of the girl he just rescued.* What's the matter with you? You can live your life now. You should be glad. *He just doesn't understand these ningen emotions*

Starz: *Starz doesn't answer at first, she just shrugs.* Nothing...

-Off with Genkai-

Genkai: *She stops at Yukina's door and knocks.* Yukina?

Yukina: Genkai? *Rustling from within, then opens her door, rubbing her eyes.* What's the matter?

-Den-

Hiei: *takes her head as gently as possible and makes her look at him.* I asked what the problem is, and it is most definitely not `nothing'. Now what is the problem?

Starz: *Starz winces despite how gentle he tries to be, and turns her eyes to the side in an effort to still not look at him.* It is nothing... My head just hurts really bad right now, that's all... *She smiles at him weakly.*

-With the others-

Genkai: Come. There was an attack and Starz got hurt. The wound isn't normal, and there's not much I can do. This is more your field. *She starts back for the den.*

Yukina: *Yawns sweetly and follows without protest.* I'll see what I can do.

-Den-

Hiei: *Uses his Jagan to see what is really bothering her with startling results.* I believe that you were very brave with that demon for someone who has never seen one before. That is something to be proud of. And. . . I am proud as well.

Starz: *Starz starts in surprise, and twists completely around to gape at him, trying to ignore the pain the motion brought.* W-what? How did you...?

-With Genkai and Yukina-

Genkai: *She nods to what Yukina said and they turn the corner, the den just up ahead.*

Hiei: Hold still, if you want to stay awake. Just call it a lucky guess.

Yukina: *Comes into the den with Genkai.* What seems to be the problem Hiei?

Hiei: *Startled by his sister's entrance.* Hn. Demon backhanded her into a tree out in the woods. See what you can do Yukina. *Starts to ease Starz towards Yukina.*

Starz: *Starz stares at him.* That's a good guess... er, but your wrong! *Weak laugh, and that's when Yukina comes in. When Hiei pushes her toward her, she lets him.* Er, hello Yukina. *Weak smile.*

Genkai: *She just takes a seat and quietly watches.*

*Hiei leans in intent on watching his sister work, and her hands start to glow and heal the abnormal wound. In no time, the cut is closed, and the glow subsides.*

Yukina: There, I've done everything I can. Genkai, want to tell her the 'after care?'

Genkai: *She nods.* Young lady, I expect you to head straight for bed. You need to rest.

Starz: *Starz shakes her head, and says stubbornly.* But I'm not tired!

Hiei: *Looks at Genkai.* I'll take her to bed. *Grabs Starz' hand and leads her off to her room.*

Yukina: *To Genkai* It seems he likes her. He would never act this way to anyone else besides me. Strange. Well, if there are no more patients that require me, I'll just head back to bed shall I?

Genkai: *Nods once more.* As surprising as it is, yes, I do believe he likes her. *She stands up.* No, Starz was the only one injured. Good night, Yukina. *She goes off to bed.*

-Out in the hall-

Starz: *Starz lets Hiei lead her off, but she still has a stubborn look on her face.* Just because I'm going to my room doesn't mean I'm going to bed! I happen to be very nocturnal.

Hiei: Which explains why you sleep like a rock. You really should go to bed you know. It'll hurt a lot less in the morning if you do. *Hoping to get her to bed with that.*

Starz: *Starz crosses her arms.* My head doesn't hurt so much now! Besides, I only go to bed after midnight! And it's not midnight yet! *Thinking- I think...*

Hiei: *Takes Starz to the nearest window and points at the stars.* See the way they're positioned? That means it's after midnight. Come, you must go to bed.

Starz: *Starz gives him a look.* Are you sure you're not just saying that? *Sneaks a peek at her watch, which reads: 1:02, and she mentally curses before suddenly getting an idea. Discreetly, she turns back the time on her watch while Hiei isn't looking and then when she's done...* You are trying to trick me! My watch only says its 10:34! *She sticks her tongue out at him.*

Hiei: *Looks at the clock on the wall.* No, I believe that it's after one, and your watch is wrong. Come on now.

Starz: *Starz curses mentally again, before going over to the clock and eyeing it.* Er... this clock isn't even working! Its batteries must be dead. *Goes to take it down to show him but 'accidentally' drops it, and it breaks for real.* Oops... *sweat drop*

Hiei: I could hear it ticking before you dropped it. Why don't you want to go to bed? *Eyes her suspiciously.*

Starz: *Starz gives a huff.* I just don't want to, okay? I'm not tired and if I'm not tired, the only thing I'm going to do is stare at the ceiling! Do you know how boring that is!? *Huffs again.*

Hiei: If you do not wish to sleep, at least lay down. I will keep you company if you wish, and if it means that much to not be alone.

Starz: *Starz lets out a sigh, and shrugs.* Whatever... *They finally get to her room, and she flops down on the bed.* So...

-Random spot in the temple-

Kuwabara: *Is walking around, in his boxers, sleep walking.* Ohhhhh, pretty girl.... come back.... *Stumbles around in the dark, somehow ending up at Red's door, he pushes the door open in his sleep, and wanders in.* Pretty, pretty girl.....coooommmmeeee backkkk! *Stumbles toward the bed.*

Red: *Sleeping fitfully after the mind contact, and snuggles closer to the sleeping Kurama.*

Kuwabara: *Keeps stumbling forward, until he trips over the lamp that was never picked up and goes down hard.... on the bed...on top of the two in the bed...* Pretty girl.... *his arms wrap around the two thinking they're his 'pretty girl'* Pweety girl.... *Snuggles closer.*

Kurama: *Too tired from the mental contact thing to really be disturbed by Kuwabara.*

Starz: *Starz is starring at her ceiling, utterly bored.* Bored, bored, bored, I'm sooooooooooooo bored! *Singing that, btw.*

-In Red's room/bed/what the hell is wrong with you???-

Red: *Wakes realizing an extra set of hands around her. Turns to find Kuwabara with his hands around her and Kurama. Not even realizing what she's doing, she let's out another shockwave scream, trying to get away from him.*

-In Starz's room-

Hiei: *Falling asleep in a random chair.*

Starz: *Starz continues singing boredly before stopping when she hears little snores from the corner. She glances over and sees Hiei sleeping. She blinks before grinning at him and standing up, and grabbing her blanket. She walks over to him and puts the blanket around him.* There ya go...

Kuwabara: *Is thrown off the bed because of the scream and he lands on the ground face first. He isn't woken by this, as hard as it to believe.* Pretty...girl? *He goes silent, and starts snoring.*

Kurama: *All he did was roll over in his sleep, burying his head under the pillow.*

Red: *Heart is going a mile a minute as she tries to rouse Kurama. Her hands shake so badly, she doesn't trust herself to open the door and go ask for help to get him out of her room.*

Kurama: *He lifts his head up, his green eyes clouded over in sleep.* Miss Red? *Slightly confused.*

Kuwabara: *Still out cold, not budging.* pweetty............girl....................come...................back..... .............

Red: *So startled by Kuwabara's words that she starts to hyperventilate and grabs her chest. She points to the floor, since she is able to do nothing else.*

Kurama: *He stares downward, and his eyes go wide before he sweat drops.* Oh, I see... *He rolls off the bed and drags Kuwabara out the door.*

Red: *Continues to hyperventilate as the edges of her vision turn gray, and it becomes a task to draw one breath. She passes out and stops breathing.*

Kurama: *He walks back in* He's gone, Miss Red... *Silence.* Miss Red? *Goes over to her and sees she's not breathing.* OO Red!!! *Does CPR until she's breathing again.*

Red: *Takes one deep shuddering breath as air gets through to her constricted lungs and she begins to breathe rapidly and quickly. She is still out like a light after the immense ordeal. She turns over in her sleep and coughs as her breathing returns to normal.*

Kurama: *He lets out a relieved breath, slightly pink in the face, and now really exhausted after having to drag that million-pound oaf back to his room, curls up back in the bed, drawing Red close and going back to sleep.*

-Starz room-

Starz: *After putting the blanket around Hiei, she goes back to her bed and flops down on it, and stares at the ceiling until she finally drops off into sleep.*

-The next morning-

Genkai: *She wakes a tad earlier than usual, and goes about her morning chores, the first being waking the dimwit.... she walks into his room, and kicks him.* Time to get up, dimwit.

Yusuke: What?! *Gets up.* Come ON! I don't get any breaks do I? What do you want now?

Genkai: *She turns away and heads for the door, a smirk on her face.* The usual... wake everyone else and a hundred laps around the temple afterwards. Try not to test my patience today...

Yusuke: *Drops to the ground.* Awww . . . Genkai . . . *Sighs and moves to get dressed. Afterwards, he moves to the closest room from his, Kuwabara's, and opens the door to kick him.* Wake up, Loser, it's almost time for breakfast.

Kuwabara: *Snoring* preety.............giirlll............

Yusuke: *Kicks him again, harder, and says:* The pretty girl will be at breakfast. (Assuming it's Starz, Red, or Yukina)

Kuwabara: *Suddenly jumps up, drooling.* NO WAY! Really, Urameshi!? *He jumps over to his dresser and starts tearing through his clothes.*

Yusuke: Yeah, Yeah, just get down to the den and help Genkai. *Moves out of the room towards Hiei and Kurama's room, finding it empty yet again. Heads for Botan and Yukina's room, wakes them, and sends them on their merry way. Goes to Starz's room and says:* Hey, it's time for breakfast. *Knocks* Starz?

Starz: *Dead to the world.*

Yusuke: *Opens the door to see Hiei in the corner asleep, and Starz oblivious to the world on her bed. Decides to wake the easier one, Hiei. Shakes him to immediately awake him.* Hey, get her up and get down to the den for breakfast hamster legs. *Leaves before Hiei can retaliate. Heads for Red's room thinking he'll know what he'll be seeing. Opens the door to find Kurama and Red asleep. Walks to Kurama, the closer, and pokes him in the side.*

Kurama: *Opens one eye, and sees Yusuke.* Can I help you? *Still half asleep, he doesn't realize what must be going through Yusuke's head at seeing him and Red in the same bed.*

Yusuke: *Snickers uncontrollably* ummm. . . hahaha. . .It's time. . . hahaha. . . for breakfast. Genkai wanted me to. . . HA. . . wake everyone. You and Starz and Red are gonna be the last. *Snickers stop him from speaking.*

-In Starz' room-

Hiei: *Walks over to Starz, and shakes her hard. He knows now from experience that gentle isn't the way to wake her. When he receives no response he says very clearly in her ear.* Is it time for another field trip this morning?

*Everyone is piling into the den now (Genkai, Kuwabara, Botan, and Yukina.)*

Kurama: *He picks his head up, blinking at the snickering Yusuke, before suddenly turning almost as red as his hair.* Th-this isn't what it looks like!

-Starz' Room-

Starz: *Starz cracks open her eyes, and gives him a sleepy glare.* I might drown today, 'cause I toooooooooo tired! *Whiney voice as that was said. She tries to hide under pillow and go back to sleep.*

-Starz' room-

Hiei: *Notices she has no covers on and wonders where they went. He looks around and sees them where he fell asleep. Thinks: She must've put them on me after I fell asleep listening to her complain.*

-Red's Room-

Yusuke: Yeah, and Genkai doesn't treat me like a hamster on a wheel when it comes to running laps. Come on and admit it, you were with her all night if you catch my drift, and you both seem so tired. *Snickers some more.*

-Den-

Yukina and Botan: Good morning Genkai.

Genkai: *Nods to them in greeting.* Good morning, girls.

Kuwabara: *Comes dashing in, in his 'best' clothes ((the one's from the movie)) and comes skidding to a halt, and quickly looks around for his 'victim'.* Starz!? *Blinks when he sees she isn't in the room* Where's Starz!? My lady, WHERE ARE YOU!? *Wailing* ((Yesh...))

-Red's Room-

Kurama: *Now as red as his hair.* Yusuke, you know very well I am not that type of person! I barely know her! *He sits up, and quickly gets off the bed, nearly tripping in his haste.* Thank you for waking me, but you can go now. I can wake, Miss Red.

-Starz' Room-

Starz: *After a few minutes of nothing from Hiei, she relaxes and actually falls back to sleep thinking he's gonna leave her alone.*

Hiei: I don't think so. *Snapping out of it.* You're going to go eat breakfast if it kills you. *Drags Starz off of the bed and pulls pillow away from her.*

-Den-

Botan: Really Kuwabara, you want to make sure you never have a social life again, don't you?

-Red's Room-

Yusuke: Yeah. All right lover boy. I'll believe you this time, but we all can see you care about her. It's really obvious. *Walks out and heads to the den.*

Red: *Coughs twice and shifts trying to get more comfortable.*

Kurama: *Turns toward Red after Yusuke leaves, and gently shakes her shoulder.* Hey, wake up. *Shakes her gently again.*

-Starz' Room-

Starz: *Starz doesn't fight him, but she doesn't help him either. She's just hanging limply in his arms.* *Sleepy voice* Well, if you're so determined, ya can carry me to breakfast. *Yawn*

-Den-

Kuwabara: Huh? What are you talking about Botan? Its obvious Starz likes me! Especially after the date last night!!! *Getting his dream and reality mixed up.*

Genkai: Speaking of last night... *The Look* You can expect to be doing four hundred laps around the temple after breakfast.

Yusuke: *Walking in as this is said.* Geez. And I didn't even hear what he did this time *as he walks into the den.* Kurama and Hiei are waking their respective. . . you know.

-Starz's Room-

Hiei: *sweat drops* Hn. *Carries her to the door of the den and drops her.* Walk the rest of the way, don't be lazy.

-Red's Room-

Red: *Wrinkles her nose in protest and shimmies to the warm spot where he was laying a minute ago.*

Kurama: *Smiles at that, but shakes her a bit harder this time.* Come on, sleepy head. Breakfast is waiting for us. You don't want Yusuke and Kuwabara to eat it all do you?

-Right outside the Den-

Starz: *Starz pouts at him as she stands up, and opens the door.* It's too early not to be lazy! *Walks in.*

Kuwabara: *He was about to say something but that's when Starz walks in.* STARZ! *He runs toward her, and grabs her hands, a crazy, 'lovey-dovey' look on his face.* And how is my little muffin doing this morning!?

Starz: *She jerks back, but not far since he has her hands, and her left eye starts twitching.* Let. Go. Or. Else. *Death glare that almost rivals Hiei's.*

Hiei: I do believe she said to let go, Kuwabara. *Steps into the den and gives him an equally evil glare.*

Yusuke: Brrrr. By the way Genkai, what did he do this time?

-Red's Room-

Red: *Shrugs her shoulders and pulls pillow close to hug it.*

Kuwabara: *He lets go, but only because he puts his hands on his hips.* Shove off, shorty! She likes me, not you! She said so last night!

Starz: *Frozen in shock for a few seconds, before she starts sputtering.* W-what!? I did no such thing!

Kuwabara: I know you wanted it kept a secret, sweet stuff, but it's not necessary! Shorty needed his bubble popped anyways! *Victorious look aimed Hiei's way.*

Starz: *Starz is still sputtering, not sure what to say.*

Genkai: *To Yusuke while the insanity plays out behind her.* You mean to tell me you didn't hear it last night? I was sure Red's scream had woken everyone.

-Red's room-

Kurama: *He laughs and pulls the pillow away, and for good measure, the blankets.* Come on, you! It's time to get up!

-Den-

Yusuke: What scream? *Innocent look*

Hiei: She said it didn't happen. You must've been dreaming again, second best.

-Red's room-

Red: *Just shakes her head and tries to fall asleep with no covers or pillows.*

Kurama: *He laughs one more time.* I suppose I'll have to unleash my ultimate attack on you.... *He inches closer... closer... closer....* Tickle Attack! *And begins tickling her mercilessly.*

-Den-

Kuwabara: Shut up! If I'm second best, guess what? That makes you third or fourth best! Personally I think Kurama's better than you, so yeah, you're fourth best! And I wasn't dreaming, damnit! Right Starz!? *Turns to her.*

Starz: *She's finally stopped sputtering and is glaring at him as he turns.* I told you! No such thing ever happened, you, you, you....! *Can't think of what to call to him she's so angry.*

Genkai: The Baka over there was sleep walking again and he blundered into Red's room. She screamed loud enough to wake the dead. *Shakes her head with a sigh.*

Yusuke: *Laughs* Well, she didn't wake this ex-dead person... hehehe

Hiei: If you don't stop, I will force you to stop. *Most evil glare he can muster.*

*Botan and Yukina are watching with disturbed looks.*

-Red's Room-

Red: *Squeaks and falls off the opposite side of the bed. Sits there and pouts for waking her up with that attack.*

Kurama: *He laughs and then walks around to the other side of the bed, where he offers her his hand* You'll thank me later. Come on before breakfast is over.

-Den-

Kuwabara: *Not even he's stupid enough to miss the glare Hiei's giving him now, he backs up gulping.* Man, what's your problem? You act like she's your girlfriend. *He gives up on Starz for the moment, and goes to sit down by Yukina.* Good morning, Yukina! *Big dopey grin*

Starz: *She gives a sigh of relief and then smiles at Hiei.* Thanks. *Turning back around, she walks all the way into the room and waves.* Good morning everyone!

Genkai: *Sweat drops at Yusuke, and then turns toward Starz.* Good morning. No field trips today? *Starz sweat drops at that.*

Hiei: *Used to the attention his sister gets from the big dope, he chooses a seat where he can keep an eye on the jerk, just in case.*

*Everyone trying not to look as if they were the center of attention and talks.*

-Red's Room-

Red: *Ignoring the pain in her hands, and the weariness in her body, she gets up on her own and gives a feeble glare to him for waking her up in that manner. She walks towards the door, and remembering she has no clue where to go, turns to look at him.* *Squeak*

Kurama: *He smiles at her, and walks over, offering his arm like he did when they first meet.* Shall I escort you to the dining room?

-Den-

Starz: *Starz feels kinda bad for poor Yukina, but her stomach makes its presence known... rather loudly.* Er...so when's breakfast? *To anyone listening.*

Yusuke: I agree with her on this one, I'm HUNGRY!!!

Botan: When aren't you hungry Yusuke?

Hiei: Hn.

-Red's room-

Red: *Blushes like mad and trips over her own feet. Grabs the proffered arm like a lifeline. * *Squeak!*

Kurama: *Just shakes his head, amused, and steadies her.* This way, My Lady. *He leads her off to their destination.*

-Den-

Starz: *Starz glances around, seeing no one had actually made a move to go anywhere. Her stomach protests this laziness.* Well, let's eat! Like.... now! *Really impatient.*

Botan and Yukina: *Laugh politely.*

Yusuke: Yeah, let's eat!!! Come ON Genkai, where's the grub?

*Door opens and Kurama and a rather harassed looking Red enter. Red looks kind of forlorn, not being able to say hi, so she just kind of gives a feeble wave and finds anywhere to sit down.*

Genkai: *Shoots Yusuke a glare.* Have you no manners, boy? We are waiting for the others. *That's when Kurama and Red enter.* And now that they're here, we can go to the dinning room. *She gets up and trudges off.*

Starz: *Upon seeing her friend, she momentarily forgets about breakfast.* Good morning, Red! *She walks over to greet her, and stops when she's in front of her.* Hey. *She notices Red doesn't look exactly ship-shape.* Didn't get a good sleep last night?

Kuwabara: *Is escorting Yukina out of the room, saying all these cheesy lines.*

Red: *Gives Starz the first true smile to cross her face in days and shrugs sending an extremely evil glare (for her) towards Kuwabara.*

Yusuke: All right!!! Food!!! ^___^

Starz: *Starz blinks then also sends Kuwabaka an evil glare.* At this rate, he'll be dead by sunset. *Crosses her arms, but at Yusuke's exclamation of food, her stomach growls again.* Heeeeey, that's right! Breakfast! Move it or lose it, slowpoke! *Runs out, and shoves Yusuke out of her way so he doesn't beat there and eat it all.*

Kurama: *Sweat drops as Starz runs off, and then looks at Red.* Your friend seems prone to mood swings. *He shakes his head, and then smiles.* Let's go before they eat it all.

Yusuke: Hey! I resent that newbie! First to live here, first serve or something like that. *Chases Starz into the dining room.*

Red: *Gives a wan smile to Kurama and just nods while walking to join her friend.*

Starz: *Starz just laughs.* First come, first serve! *She's already digging in.*

Kurama: *He follows her in and sits down next to Red, being far more reserved in getting his food than Starz.*

Kuwabara: *As soon as food comes into sight, he forgets about Yukina and starts to stuff his face.*

Red: *After sitting down, looks with mild disgust at the way her best friend and two of the people that lived here ate. Just takes a piece of toast and nibbles on that while trying not to look at the disgusting sight.*

Yusuke: Snarl...snarf...mmm...

Botan: Honestly, boys, can't you eat like civilized -- *She sees Starz and just sighs.* Never mind.

Hiei: *Looking at Starz with mild interest, makes his own plate.* Hn.

Starz: *Starz in mid-feeding frenzy, suddenly eyes all the people looking at her, and stops, turning red.* Heh, sorry... *She slows down, waaaaaaay down, and since Yusuke's on one side of her, stomps on his foot and gives him a meaningful look before going back to eating, this time slowly and with manners.*

Kuwabara: *Continues scarfing everything in sight down, nearly taking a hand or two in his feeding frenzy.*

Genkai: *Trying very hard to ignore the antics and not lose her temper.*

Kurama: *Is sweat dropping as he eats.*

Red: *Turns slightly green as she accidentally views Kuwabara still eating like a fiend. Thinks: disgusting. I might be sick if this keeps up.*

Yusuke: *At the pain of being stomped on, looks up at the offender and catches her glare. He slows down for him, though Kuwabara seems not to notice.*

Yukina: Oh, my. *As she views Kuwabara's antics.*

Genkai: *She happens to be the other unlucky person sitting next to Kuwabara, and she loses her patience at long last, smacking Kuwabara in the back of the head as hard as she can.*

Kuwabara: Ack! What was that for, Genkai!? *At this shout, various little bits of food fly out of his mouth.*

Genkai: Get out and go run your laps, dimwit #2.

Kuwabara: Huh? But I'm not done-

Genkai: Now!!

Kuwabara: *For once, he does what he told and runs out before provoking her further.*

Starz: *Starz had stopped to watch the drama, a smirk crossing her face that widened when Kuwabara ran out with his tail between his legs. She goes back to eating.*

Kurama: *A big 'ol sweat drop by his head as Kuwabara runs out, and then he goes back to eating. During which he notices Red with that one little piece of toast. He sends her a meaningful look, wanting her to eat more than that.*

Yusuke: *Laughing his butt off that he doesn't have to run more laps than Kuwabara. No food flies out of his mouth.*

Red: *Very green now that Kuwabara had spit some food onto the table, just ignores the look and tries to eat her toast without gagging. Which she barely pulls off.*

Kurama: *Continues the look, even as he eats. He suddenly snags an orange out of the bowl in the center and sets it in front of her.*

Genkai: Dimwit, I really thought you'd learn by now. Get out of here and go run your laps. *The look*

*At this Starz has to stop eating or she'll choke because she's trying not to laugh.*

Yusuke: Dammit! The one time.... *he trails off as he leaves the table with no complaints. He already knows the consequences for that.*

Red: *Still very green as she ignores the fruit in front of her and stares at her hands. Though she smiles very faintly at the offer.*

Starz: *After Yusuke leaves, Starz pushes her plate away, finally full.* Who cooks? Because this was great! *She leans back in her chair and waits for everyone else to finish.*

Kurama: *He frowns, also pushing his plate away now that he's full. He says very softly as not to attract any unwanted attention from the others* Miss Red, you really should eat more. You need your strength.

Genkai: *To herself* At least one lesson has gotten through that thick skull of his.

Yukina: *Blushes at the compliment and slowly says,* I'm glad you enjoyed it Starz.

*Yusuke and Kuwabara are both running their laps and complaining about not being able to finish their breakfast.*

Red: *Turns red at the unwanted attention at her not finishing, and turns green at the thought of eating more.*

Starz: *Starz grins at Yukina.* You'll have to teach me how to cook.... Er... The last time I tried... *Weak laugh*

Kurama: *He decides to drop the subject for now, making a mental note to make sure she ate something for lunch, and turned to look at Hiei. He had been quiet, even for him.* No comment on the others' punishments, Hiei? Are you getting soft? *He smiles to let his friend know he's just teasing.*

Hiei: *Glares nicely to Kurama.* Soft? I'll show you soft, Kitsune.. . *Trails off as he finishes his own breakfast and nods to his sister.*

Red: *Sends Kurama an apologetic look for not eating what he asked. Then she smiles at Yukina, not wanting to be rude.*

Starz: *Starz grins at Hiei and Kurama, shaking her head amused.*

Kurama: *Unaffected by the glare, he just continues smiling, and then nods to Red to show he's forgiven her.* If everyone's done, I believe there are some things that needed to be discussed. *He glances at Genkai who nods.*

Genkai: Yes, before it really wasn't important, but it has gotten serious as of last night. There was a demon attack.

Kurama: *This surprises him since he hasn't told Genkai yet about the demon that attacked Red.* There was another demon? *When Genkai looks at him, he elaborates.* Miss Red was also attacked last night.

Genkai: This is serious... *She trails off thinking.*

Starz: *She starts upon hearing her friend had been attacked.* Red, you didn't get hurt did you? *Worried look.*

Red: *Gives her friend a significant look and points to her face with a bandaged hand and winces as she rolls her eyes.*

Hiei: So that's where that second one that attacked us was coming from.

Starz: *Starz sweat drops, not sure how to respond but guilty nonetheless.*

Kurama: *His eyes take on a slightly more serious look.* Were you able to get it, Hiei?

Genkai: *Still thinking.*

Hiei: *Scowls at the memory.* Unfortunately, no. It was after Starz at the time, and it got away. *Scowls even deeper.*

Red: *Now it was her turn to be worried. She looked at Starz with concern. She looked worried that it was her fault that the demon got away. She hadn't wanted to see Kurama kill.*

Starz: *Notices Red look and smiles at her.* Don't worry, it didn't touch me! *Lying though her teeth.* It was too scared of Hiei and ran off!

Kurama: *He leans his chin on his hand, thinking aloud.* It makes no sense why any demons would be after Miss Starz and Miss Red....

Yukina: But, Starz, last night -- *She gets cut off by a look from Starz.*

Red: Looks relieved that her friend turned alright, even if it did make her look foolish, she turned away slightly and looked at her hands, bandaged, and thought : Wonderful. My friend with no power didn't get hurt, but I end up having a panic attack by the end of the night..... She remembered passing out, but not waking up till this morning. Who had saved her? The information was fuzzy at best, as it always was after an attack. Damn, I wish I had a better memory:.*