Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Lost and Found: Love ❯ The Beginnings of Pregnancy; Hiei, I Need You! ( Chapter 16 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
A Past Love
Chapter 16: The Beginnings of Pregnancy; Hiei, I Need You!
Chapter 16: The Beginnings of Pregnancy; Hiei, I Need You!
Author's Note: This is my first Yu Yu Hakusho story I've written. I like comments and suggestions/criticism. But, if you don't like this story as you read it, it's kind of pointless just to tell me how much you hated it and how terrible I am. So, I want a reason for why you dislike it so much if you do. If you see a problem with it, state it. Otherwise, enjoy yourself. If you wouldn’t mind, a review would be nice.
Disclaimer: This is a story based upon characters of Yu Yu Hakusho. It is for entertainment purposes only.
“Wake up, dear one. I have breakfast.” A soft, sweet sounding voice murmured.
Hiei squinted, to make sure the light wasn’t too bright.
“You closed the curtains. There’s no sunshine.” The voice continued.
Hiei rolled onto his side and propped his head upon his hand, supported by his elbow.
Akita moved about the room, straightening up. She appeared graceful and delicate in her light and summery sleeping robe.
A tray rested on the bureau top. Steam rose off the contents of a white mug. Hiei had come to prefer the taste of coffee over tea in the morning. A plate with a piece of toast and some eggs was next to the coffee.
“Are you hungry?” Akita asked, bringing the tray over to Hiei and seating herself beside his lounging form on the bed.
Hiei accepted the mug, knowing caffeine would be one of the only things to wake him up completely. Drinking it nearly scalded his throat so he resorted to sips after he had gulped down a glass of orange juice to soothe his throat. He cleared the plate in moments. “Back to bed...” He rolled over onto his side and closed his eyes.
Akita shook her head and abruptly stood. She gasped in pain and the tray clattered to the floor.
Hiei was up in an instant. He leapt out of bed only to find his mate had fainted and lay motionless on the floor. He scooped her up into his arms and rushed out of the room.
Keiko was sitting in the entry room, chatting with Yukina when Hiei rushed into the room, sweat forming on his forehead. He wore only his black pants and was barefoot.
“Yukina.... I-It’s Akita. She passed out...” Hiei trailed, casting a panicked look at the ice apparition.
Keiko’s eyes widened in alarm.
Yukina quickly stood, followed by Keiko. The ice maiden came over and placed a hand on Akita’s pale forehead. “Take her up to the bathroom. Place her in the tub and run some cold water. I warned her that she’d be going through stages of feverish heat. She’ll also need ice. If you or someone else can run out to the store for a couple bags...”
“I’ll go.” He turned but the turned back around. “I’ll need something to exchange for the ice. I have none of this ningen currency.”
“I’ll get you some.” Keiko instantly departed from the room.
Hiei gazed at Yukina for a moment and raced to the bathroom. Closing the door, he began to run the cold water after placing Akita on the floor. He began to remove her robe and placed her nude form into the cool water. Leaving her to soak, he left the room. The jaganshi paused, took the money Keiko offered, and sped towards the nearest store. After purchasing several bags of ice, he rushed back to the temple.
Yukina was waiting up in the bathroom for Hiei and she poured the two bagfuls of ice into the tub. She placed a damp rag on Akita’s forehead. “She’ll be better soon, Hiei. Please try not to worry too much. Why don’t you go and visit with Kuwabara and Yusuke? They were asking about you.”
Hiei glared at the Koorime. It was the first time he had ever shown any slight hostility towards her. “Are you expecting me to leave her in this state?!”
“That’s exactly what I expect.” Yukina responded firmly. “I’ll make her as comfortable as possible. Please, do me only one favor. Fetch a basin for Akita. I don’t want her to be about and it’s best if she stays in the tub. The basin is for vomiting.” Yukina said in reply to Hiei’s puzzled expression.
The half-Koorime only did as she requested and visited for awhile with Yusuke, Kurama, and the idiot.
***
Later, during the early afternoon, Yukina came downstairs. She seemed a bit weary and gladly accepted the tea from Keiko.
“Is she better?” Hiei asked anxiously.
“She will be soon. I left her to soak in the tub. Color is returning to her face and skin. Akita should rest in the bathroom. She’s thrown up quite a few times and still feels nauseous. Hopefully she’ll be able to hold some food down.” Yukina had drained the cup and Keiko was pouring her another. “Kurama, would you give her something to soothe her stomach?”
“I’ll see what I can give her.” Kurama left.
“Why don’t you rest now, Yukina? The shrimp will do well enough watching her.” Kuwabara said, smiling sympathetically at the fire demon.
Hiei only glared, bristling at Kuwabara’s old nickname for him, and disappeared abruptly.
“I pity him. Keiko went through a fair amount of morning sickness. I’d wake up every morning to the sound of her retching. It was terrible.” Yusuke commented.
Keiko returned, rocking her son. She seated herself beside her husband. “Would you like to hold him, Genkai? He’ll probably think of you as his grandmother.”
The child looked up at everyone with wide brown eyes. He blinked, yawned, and snuggled nearer to his mother.
“Perhaps another time, Keiko. He seems perfectly happy with you.” Genkai stated.
***
Hiei stroked Akita’s forehead. She seemed so young and vulnerable.
Akita stirred. “Hello.”
“How are you feeling?” Hiei asked with concern.
“Empty. If I vomit again, I’m not sure what I’m throwing up. It certainly isn’t food.” Akita sat up. “Can I have my robe? I don’t think I can soak any longer. I feel cooler.”
Hiei gave her a robe.
Akita dried off and got out of the tub, pulling the robe on. “How many visitors did I have today?”
“Only Yukina and myself.” Hiei replied.
“Good.” Akita approached the door and suddenly, her knees gave out from beneath her.
Hiei caught her before she hit the floor.
“Silly legs...won’t cooperate...” Akita murmured giddily.
Hiei swept her into his arms. “Time for bed.”
***
A polite knock came later after Hiei had settled Akita under the covers.
“Come in.”
Kurama opened the door, holding a tray containing an ice pack, damp towels, and some sort of drink he had concocted from different plants. “How’s my sister?”
Hiei looked up at the kitsune. “Well enough. She hasn’t vomited in the past hour. It’s an improvement.”
Kurama smiled. “That’s good. This drink should calm her stomach and keep any symptoms she’d be expecting according to what Yukina has told me at a minimum. The ice pack should do well enough if she starts feeling warm.” He began to tend to his sister.“I worry, Kurama.” Hiei murmured, looking at the floor.
Kurama looked up in surprise. Hiei had whispered so softly that he wasn’t sure he has heard right. “I didn’t know she meant so much to you. You rarely worry. Only threaten when you show any kind of concern.”
Hiei turned his gaze toward the window. He remained silent.
Kurama picked up the tray and rested a hand on Hiei’s shoulder. “Then don’t hurt her, Hiei.” He left and closed the door.
Hiei looked over at Akita and let his head fall heavily into his hands. I have to get out of here. I can’t stand this. Since when is she as fragile as glass?
Since she started carrying those two young ones...
Hiei’s head automatically snapped up.
Comp stood in the doorway, watching the jaganshi. Yukina stood at his side.
Hiei went to stand.
“No need. I’ll just sit by the window.” Yukina smiled warmly.
Comp trotted into the room and leapt up onto the bed. Akita’s small form left plenty of room for the wolf’s bulk.
Yukina sat down on the chair near the window. Birds twittered cheerily to her. She smiled.
Hiei observed her happiness.
You should tell her. She deserves to know.
Akita’s voice echoed in his mind. He’d tell her. And he’d return to Mukuro for a few days to leave her to think it over. He’d wait until Akita contacted him to tell him of Yukina’s reaction.
***
Akita was perched on a rock near the edge of a cliff. She could hear waves crashing against the sturdy cliff.
“Akita...”
She turned her head to stare behind her. A figure dressed in a black cloak, black boots, a white scarf, and a white bandanna approached.
“I’m going back to Murkuro. I’m going to tell Yukina about whom I really am. Please do not be angry with me. I will return when she wishes it. If it isn’t before you’re due, please request I may return to see my children. I...” The male hesitated, casting his eyes down. When he spoke again, his voice was filled with emotion. “I will never bother her again if she desires that. Take care, my beloved.”
Akita watched, a tear trickling down her cheek, as Hiei turned and vanished into the forest from which he had come. The tear fell, forming an odd shaped, imperfect pearl as it hit the surface of the rock. “Farewell, my darling...”
***
“Yukina...would you mind if we talked?” Hiei asked. He never had felt this nervous.
“Of course, Hiei. Is it about Akita? Her symptoms will improve very soon. I’ll do my very best and-”
“No. Not about Akita. I... I know some important information that you should be aware of. I’m not really sure how to tell you.” Hiei said.
“Well, take your time. What sort of news is it?” Yukina asked innocently.
Hiei’s hand clenched the sheets of the bed. Suddenly, he felt something move. Akita’s slightly clammy hand slid into his.
I’m right here with you, Hiei. I have faith in you. I believe this is the right decision.
Hiei took another breath before he began. “It concerns your older brother.”
Yukina’s eyes were filled with surprise. “Please, you must tell me.”
“It’s me. I-I’m your older brother.” Hiei’s tone was clear but anxiety filled his nerves.
A tear trickled down her cheek. “You... you are?” Her voice was shaky and it was impossible to identify how she was feeling.
Hiei swore he heard disappointment. A clatter caught his attention. A hiruiseki was on the floor. He bolted from the room.
Yukina buried her face into her hands.
“Are you sad?”
The ice maiden looked up.
Akita sat up in bed, gazing at her. “Are you sad?” She repeated.
The Koorime shook her head. “Never. I’ve longed to know the identity of my older brother. It was just so shocking... To be honest, I think I’ve known that Hiei was the one I was looking for. He always protected me. He’s the one who rescued me from Tarukane. I only wish he would’ve told me sooner.”
Akita smiled sadly. “He never wanted you to know. He’s... done many bad things in his life. Hiei was ashamed of you knowing-”
Yukina’s hands were clenched tightly together in her lap. “His past doesn’t matter to me. He doesn’t have to be a typical brother like Kurama. He can be himself. I will love him nevertheless because he is my brother. My only family. Even though we are only half-siblings...it doesn’t matter. You and Kurama are so close and you are only his half-sister.”
Akita swung her legs over the bed, careful not to disturb Comp. She stood and walked over to Yukina. She embraced her gently. “I’m so happy he’s finally told you.”
Yukina hugged her back. After she had helped Akita back into the bed, she took Hiei’s empty chair. “Are you feeling better?”
Akita nodded. “I think I’m too happy to feel any pain.” She smiled.
“I just realized. This means... I’m going to be an aunt.” Yukina murmured, stunned.
“Yes. To two beautiful children.” Akita said proudly.
“I’ll be sure to spoil them.” Yukina promised, patting Akita’s hand with a smile.
They both chuckled and continued to talk excitedly of the two coming children.
***
“Why not?!” Hiei demanded, hands clenched in anger.
“You are my heir. She is insignificant to me.” Mukuro calmly replied.
“She is my mate. I want her to live with me.” Hiei snapped.
Mukuro sat, regarding Hiei with a raised eyebrow. “Does she really mean that much to you?”
Hiei opened his mouth and stopped. He stared at Mukuro in surprise but quickly recovered. “Would it matter?”
“A little,” she curtly responded.
“She is the first being I have ever truly loved. I have never regretted giving a part of myself to her.” Hiei looked at Mukuro calmly.
Mukuro stood. “If she’s affected you that deeply, I’d like to see how far these changes have spread. After a brief fight between you and myself, I will see if she has influenced a decline in your fighting abilities.”
Hiei smirked and followed her out of the room.
***
Five and a half months passed quietly at Genkai’s temple.
Akita spent most of her time meditating and resting. Her children were developed wonderfully, according to Yukina. She missed Hiei immensely. The jaganshi’s visits were as often as he could make the trip to the human world but were brief. He rarely stayed more than a few hours.
On this particular day, entering her twenty-seventh week of pregnancy, Akita visited the garden Kurama had planted recently. The scents were all unique. Some plants were of the ningenkai, others were of the demon world. A few were even from Reikai, gifts from a certain blue-haired ferry girl who worried about Akita’s happiness.
Comp stood faithfully at the young woman’s side. Pressing his head against her, he whined softly.
Akita reached down to scratch between his ears. She sighed. “I wonder when my time will come...” She sat on the grass, feeling another slight cramp.
“Akita! You should be resting.” Yukina reprimanded as she approached.
The Koorime-kitsune could only nod. She frowned.
“What’s the matter?” Yukina asked, immediately concerned.
“Cramps... I’ve been getting them all day...” Akita confessed.
Yukina looked alarmed. “How often?”
“Every half hour or so currently.” She stroked Comp’s ears and placed a hand to her lower abdomen. She felt kicking and smiled faintly.
“We should get you inside.” Yukina placed her hand to Akita’s forehead. “You’re cold.”
Akita shrugged.
“Why didn’t you say anything about the cramping or the temperature drop?” Yukina asked as she helped her brother’s mate stand. “Your temperature dropping is a usual Koorime trait.”
Akita only took the assistance Yukina offered and said nothing.
“You’ve been keeping to yourself a lot over the past two days. Is something troubling you?” Yukina asked as they walked towards the temple, Comp following loyally by Akita’s side.
Akita bit her lower lip. Many things troubled her. The coming of twins... Hiei’s rare visits... “It’s nothing. Can we just get inside so I can lay down?” Akita’s voice was more gruff and snippy than she had meant.
Yukina nodded and smiled. “Of course. I think it would be best if I got you settled. The cramping is a sign you’re going into labor.”
“Will you call Kurama?” Akita sought out her brother’s reassurance and comfort desperately.
“As soon as I get you settled. I’ll ask him to contact Keiko as well.” Yukina assured the girl.
“Yukina, did you- Here, let me help.” Kuwabara advanced towards the two females and assisted the ice apparition in bringing Akita inside.
“Take her to her room, will you, Kazuma?” Yukina requested.
“Sure thing, Yukina. Come on, Akita.” Kuwabara helped Akita to her room and had her resting as comfortable as possible when Yukina returned.
“Kurama is going to get in touch with Keiko and he’ll be over. We’ll be downstairs. Would you like me to telephone Hiei?” Yukina asked. At Hiei’s last visit, he had accepted a small compact phone from Kurama. It was so he could be informed of when Akita was going into labor.
Akita shook her head fiercely. “No!” She snapped through gritted teeth.
Yukina was taken by surprise by Akita’s sudden anger.
Kuwabara guided her out of the room and closed the door.
Akita wept in shame. Her anger shouldn’t be directed at the kind apparition who had taken such good care of her. What was the matter with her?!
Comp took his place at the foot of her bed. You’re crying.
Akita nodded halfheartedly.
You shouldn’t bother. Yukina understands that you miss Hiei terribly. He’s your mate, if you didn’t miss him, something would be wrong.
Akita only scowled and tossed restlessly in the bed.
About fifteen minutes later, a knock came at the closed door.
“Akita, it’s me.” A male’s voice commented from the other side of the door.
“Come in, Kurama,” Akita murmured.
Her older brother entered, emerald green eyes filled with concern.
Akita turned her face away from her brother’s searching stare. “Is Keiko coming? And Yusuke?”
“On their way.” Kurama confirmed.
Another cramp passed. Akita winced. There was a bit more sting to that one.
“Are you in pain, sister? If you are, I’ll get Yukina.” Kurama offered.
“Is she upset with me?” Akita asked.
“Not in the least. She understands.” Kurama came to sit at her bedside, patting her hand. “Where’s Hiei?”
Akita jerked her hand out of his grasp, as if she had been burned at the mention of her mate’s name.
“Oh. Are you upset with him?” Kurama asked.
Akita stubbornly refused to meet her brother’s eyes.
“I see. He’s probably doing what he does best when he feels helpless. He’s trying to keep busy.” Kurama said.
“I. Don’t. Care.” Akita responded with bitterness in her voice.
Kurama smiled. “Of course not.”
Akita’s eyes flashed angrily. “He doesn’t care about anyone but himself, Kurama! Especially not for me! Or even his children!!”
“I’m going to go and wait for Yusuke and Keiko. Call if you need anything, won’t you?” Kurama strode towards the door. He peered over at Akita before he departed.
Akita lay on her side, slightly curled. She closed her eyes as tears threatened to surface.
***
“Yes, Hiei. She’s having contractions about every fifteen minutes Kurama said. It would be best if you came soon. She’s miserable.” Yukina said into the phone’s receiver.
“I’m on my way.” Hiei clicked the device that Kurama had given him off. Sending for an imp, he told the creature to inform Mukuro he was leaving for at least a few days. He’d return with his mate and children when they were ready and well enough to make the journey.
The imp departed immediately after Hiei had given him the message and Hiei headed off as well.
***Akita’s contractions were about ten minutes apart when Yusuke and Keiko arrived.
Keiko left Kazuo with Yusuke and she and Yukina went to Akita’s room.
“So, who wants to play some cards?” Yusuke asked cheerily.
***
Hiei arrived at the temple breathless. He was known for his speed but never had he rushed anywhere so fast. Entering inside, he found Kurama, Kuwabara, and Yusuke engaged in a game of cards.
“Ah, about time you arrived.” Yusuke commented.
Keiko rocked her son gently. “Yukina said when you arrived that you should join her in Akita’s room. Call us if you need anything.”
Hiei nodded acknowledgement to the others gathered and gave a bow of his head in thanks to Keiko. He blurred from the room.
***
Akita winced. A deep cramp with biting sting to it came every five minutes.
Yukina had checked her and informed her that it was necessary she released the water.
Akita merely nodded. Where was Hiei? He’d always come to her aid without so much as a word from her.
Pounding came at the door.
“Come in. No need to break the door down,” Yukina said. Her hands were placed gently on Akita’s belly, transferring healing energy to the pain that had been slightly dulled before the water had been removed.
The door burst open. Hiei stood there, panting. “Akita...”
Unwanted tears sprang to Akita’s eyes at the sight of her mate. “You came.”
Hiei was beside her in a moment. He grasped her hand. “Of course I did. Did you think I wouldn’t?”
Akita only reached to embrace him, burying her face into his chest.
Author’s Note: Please review or give me input somehow.... you know the drill. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it.
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Disclaimer: This is a story based upon characters of Yu Yu Hakusho. It is for entertainment purposes only.
“Wake up, dear one. I have breakfast.” A soft, sweet sounding voice murmured.
Hiei squinted, to make sure the light wasn’t too bright.
“You closed the curtains. There’s no sunshine.” The voice continued.
Hiei rolled onto his side and propped his head upon his hand, supported by his elbow.
Akita moved about the room, straightening up. She appeared graceful and delicate in her light and summery sleeping robe.
A tray rested on the bureau top. Steam rose off the contents of a white mug. Hiei had come to prefer the taste of coffee over tea in the morning. A plate with a piece of toast and some eggs was next to the coffee.
“Are you hungry?” Akita asked, bringing the tray over to Hiei and seating herself beside his lounging form on the bed.
Hiei accepted the mug, knowing caffeine would be one of the only things to wake him up completely. Drinking it nearly scalded his throat so he resorted to sips after he had gulped down a glass of orange juice to soothe his throat. He cleared the plate in moments. “Back to bed...” He rolled over onto his side and closed his eyes.
Akita shook her head and abruptly stood. She gasped in pain and the tray clattered to the floor.
Hiei was up in an instant. He leapt out of bed only to find his mate had fainted and lay motionless on the floor. He scooped her up into his arms and rushed out of the room.
Keiko was sitting in the entry room, chatting with Yukina when Hiei rushed into the room, sweat forming on his forehead. He wore only his black pants and was barefoot.
“Yukina.... I-It’s Akita. She passed out...” Hiei trailed, casting a panicked look at the ice apparition.
Keiko’s eyes widened in alarm.
Yukina quickly stood, followed by Keiko. The ice maiden came over and placed a hand on Akita’s pale forehead. “Take her up to the bathroom. Place her in the tub and run some cold water. I warned her that she’d be going through stages of feverish heat. She’ll also need ice. If you or someone else can run out to the store for a couple bags...”
“I’ll go.” He turned but the turned back around. “I’ll need something to exchange for the ice. I have none of this ningen currency.”
“I’ll get you some.” Keiko instantly departed from the room.
Hiei gazed at Yukina for a moment and raced to the bathroom. Closing the door, he began to run the cold water after placing Akita on the floor. He began to remove her robe and placed her nude form into the cool water. Leaving her to soak, he left the room. The jaganshi paused, took the money Keiko offered, and sped towards the nearest store. After purchasing several bags of ice, he rushed back to the temple.
Yukina was waiting up in the bathroom for Hiei and she poured the two bagfuls of ice into the tub. She placed a damp rag on Akita’s forehead. “She’ll be better soon, Hiei. Please try not to worry too much. Why don’t you go and visit with Kuwabara and Yusuke? They were asking about you.”
Hiei glared at the Koorime. It was the first time he had ever shown any slight hostility towards her. “Are you expecting me to leave her in this state?!”
“That’s exactly what I expect.” Yukina responded firmly. “I’ll make her as comfortable as possible. Please, do me only one favor. Fetch a basin for Akita. I don’t want her to be about and it’s best if she stays in the tub. The basin is for vomiting.” Yukina said in reply to Hiei’s puzzled expression.
The half-Koorime only did as she requested and visited for awhile with Yusuke, Kurama, and the idiot.
***
Later, during the early afternoon, Yukina came downstairs. She seemed a bit weary and gladly accepted the tea from Keiko.
“Is she better?” Hiei asked anxiously.
“She will be soon. I left her to soak in the tub. Color is returning to her face and skin. Akita should rest in the bathroom. She’s thrown up quite a few times and still feels nauseous. Hopefully she’ll be able to hold some food down.” Yukina had drained the cup and Keiko was pouring her another. “Kurama, would you give her something to soothe her stomach?”
“I’ll see what I can give her.” Kurama left.
“Why don’t you rest now, Yukina? The shrimp will do well enough watching her.” Kuwabara said, smiling sympathetically at the fire demon.
Hiei only glared, bristling at Kuwabara’s old nickname for him, and disappeared abruptly.
“I pity him. Keiko went through a fair amount of morning sickness. I’d wake up every morning to the sound of her retching. It was terrible.” Yusuke commented.
Keiko returned, rocking her son. She seated herself beside her husband. “Would you like to hold him, Genkai? He’ll probably think of you as his grandmother.”
The child looked up at everyone with wide brown eyes. He blinked, yawned, and snuggled nearer to his mother.
“Perhaps another time, Keiko. He seems perfectly happy with you.” Genkai stated.
***
Hiei stroked Akita’s forehead. She seemed so young and vulnerable.
Akita stirred. “Hello.”
“How are you feeling?” Hiei asked with concern.
“Empty. If I vomit again, I’m not sure what I’m throwing up. It certainly isn’t food.” Akita sat up. “Can I have my robe? I don’t think I can soak any longer. I feel cooler.”
Hiei gave her a robe.
Akita dried off and got out of the tub, pulling the robe on. “How many visitors did I have today?”
“Only Yukina and myself.” Hiei replied.
“Good.” Akita approached the door and suddenly, her knees gave out from beneath her.
Hiei caught her before she hit the floor.
“Silly legs...won’t cooperate...” Akita murmured giddily.
Hiei swept her into his arms. “Time for bed.”
***
A polite knock came later after Hiei had settled Akita under the covers.
“Come in.”
Kurama opened the door, holding a tray containing an ice pack, damp towels, and some sort of drink he had concocted from different plants. “How’s my sister?”
Hiei looked up at the kitsune. “Well enough. She hasn’t vomited in the past hour. It’s an improvement.”
Kurama smiled. “That’s good. This drink should calm her stomach and keep any symptoms she’d be expecting according to what Yukina has told me at a minimum. The ice pack should do well enough if she starts feeling warm.” He began to tend to his sister.“I worry, Kurama.” Hiei murmured, looking at the floor.
Kurama looked up in surprise. Hiei had whispered so softly that he wasn’t sure he has heard right. “I didn’t know she meant so much to you. You rarely worry. Only threaten when you show any kind of concern.”
Hiei turned his gaze toward the window. He remained silent.
Kurama picked up the tray and rested a hand on Hiei’s shoulder. “Then don’t hurt her, Hiei.” He left and closed the door.
Hiei looked over at Akita and let his head fall heavily into his hands. I have to get out of here. I can’t stand this. Since when is she as fragile as glass?
Since she started carrying those two young ones...
Hiei’s head automatically snapped up.
Comp stood in the doorway, watching the jaganshi. Yukina stood at his side.
Hiei went to stand.
“No need. I’ll just sit by the window.” Yukina smiled warmly.
Comp trotted into the room and leapt up onto the bed. Akita’s small form left plenty of room for the wolf’s bulk.
Yukina sat down on the chair near the window. Birds twittered cheerily to her. She smiled.
Hiei observed her happiness.
You should tell her. She deserves to know.
Akita’s voice echoed in his mind. He’d tell her. And he’d return to Mukuro for a few days to leave her to think it over. He’d wait until Akita contacted him to tell him of Yukina’s reaction.
***
Akita was perched on a rock near the edge of a cliff. She could hear waves crashing against the sturdy cliff.
“Akita...”
She turned her head to stare behind her. A figure dressed in a black cloak, black boots, a white scarf, and a white bandanna approached.
“I’m going back to Murkuro. I’m going to tell Yukina about whom I really am. Please do not be angry with me. I will return when she wishes it. If it isn’t before you’re due, please request I may return to see my children. I...” The male hesitated, casting his eyes down. When he spoke again, his voice was filled with emotion. “I will never bother her again if she desires that. Take care, my beloved.”
Akita watched, a tear trickling down her cheek, as Hiei turned and vanished into the forest from which he had come. The tear fell, forming an odd shaped, imperfect pearl as it hit the surface of the rock. “Farewell, my darling...”
***
“Yukina...would you mind if we talked?” Hiei asked. He never had felt this nervous.
“Of course, Hiei. Is it about Akita? Her symptoms will improve very soon. I’ll do my very best and-”
“No. Not about Akita. I... I know some important information that you should be aware of. I’m not really sure how to tell you.” Hiei said.
“Well, take your time. What sort of news is it?” Yukina asked innocently.
Hiei’s hand clenched the sheets of the bed. Suddenly, he felt something move. Akita’s slightly clammy hand slid into his.
I’m right here with you, Hiei. I have faith in you. I believe this is the right decision.
Hiei took another breath before he began. “It concerns your older brother.”
Yukina’s eyes were filled with surprise. “Please, you must tell me.”
“It’s me. I-I’m your older brother.” Hiei’s tone was clear but anxiety filled his nerves.
A tear trickled down her cheek. “You... you are?” Her voice was shaky and it was impossible to identify how she was feeling.
Hiei swore he heard disappointment. A clatter caught his attention. A hiruiseki was on the floor. He bolted from the room.
Yukina buried her face into her hands.
“Are you sad?”
The ice maiden looked up.
Akita sat up in bed, gazing at her. “Are you sad?” She repeated.
The Koorime shook her head. “Never. I’ve longed to know the identity of my older brother. It was just so shocking... To be honest, I think I’ve known that Hiei was the one I was looking for. He always protected me. He’s the one who rescued me from Tarukane. I only wish he would’ve told me sooner.”
Akita smiled sadly. “He never wanted you to know. He’s... done many bad things in his life. Hiei was ashamed of you knowing-”
Yukina’s hands were clenched tightly together in her lap. “His past doesn’t matter to me. He doesn’t have to be a typical brother like Kurama. He can be himself. I will love him nevertheless because he is my brother. My only family. Even though we are only half-siblings...it doesn’t matter. You and Kurama are so close and you are only his half-sister.”
Akita swung her legs over the bed, careful not to disturb Comp. She stood and walked over to Yukina. She embraced her gently. “I’m so happy he’s finally told you.”
Yukina hugged her back. After she had helped Akita back into the bed, she took Hiei’s empty chair. “Are you feeling better?”
Akita nodded. “I think I’m too happy to feel any pain.” She smiled.
“I just realized. This means... I’m going to be an aunt.” Yukina murmured, stunned.
“Yes. To two beautiful children.” Akita said proudly.
“I’ll be sure to spoil them.” Yukina promised, patting Akita’s hand with a smile.
They both chuckled and continued to talk excitedly of the two coming children.
***
“Why not?!” Hiei demanded, hands clenched in anger.
“You are my heir. She is insignificant to me.” Mukuro calmly replied.
“She is my mate. I want her to live with me.” Hiei snapped.
Mukuro sat, regarding Hiei with a raised eyebrow. “Does she really mean that much to you?”
Hiei opened his mouth and stopped. He stared at Mukuro in surprise but quickly recovered. “Would it matter?”
“A little,” she curtly responded.
“She is the first being I have ever truly loved. I have never regretted giving a part of myself to her.” Hiei looked at Mukuro calmly.
Mukuro stood. “If she’s affected you that deeply, I’d like to see how far these changes have spread. After a brief fight between you and myself, I will see if she has influenced a decline in your fighting abilities.”
Hiei smirked and followed her out of the room.
***
Five and a half months passed quietly at Genkai’s temple.
Akita spent most of her time meditating and resting. Her children were developed wonderfully, according to Yukina. She missed Hiei immensely. The jaganshi’s visits were as often as he could make the trip to the human world but were brief. He rarely stayed more than a few hours.
On this particular day, entering her twenty-seventh week of pregnancy, Akita visited the garden Kurama had planted recently. The scents were all unique. Some plants were of the ningenkai, others were of the demon world. A few were even from Reikai, gifts from a certain blue-haired ferry girl who worried about Akita’s happiness.
Comp stood faithfully at the young woman’s side. Pressing his head against her, he whined softly.
Akita reached down to scratch between his ears. She sighed. “I wonder when my time will come...” She sat on the grass, feeling another slight cramp.
“Akita! You should be resting.” Yukina reprimanded as she approached.
The Koorime-kitsune could only nod. She frowned.
“What’s the matter?” Yukina asked, immediately concerned.
“Cramps... I’ve been getting them all day...” Akita confessed.
Yukina looked alarmed. “How often?”
“Every half hour or so currently.” She stroked Comp’s ears and placed a hand to her lower abdomen. She felt kicking and smiled faintly.
“We should get you inside.” Yukina placed her hand to Akita’s forehead. “You’re cold.”
Akita shrugged.
“Why didn’t you say anything about the cramping or the temperature drop?” Yukina asked as she helped her brother’s mate stand. “Your temperature dropping is a usual Koorime trait.”
Akita only took the assistance Yukina offered and said nothing.
“You’ve been keeping to yourself a lot over the past two days. Is something troubling you?” Yukina asked as they walked towards the temple, Comp following loyally by Akita’s side.
Akita bit her lower lip. Many things troubled her. The coming of twins... Hiei’s rare visits... “It’s nothing. Can we just get inside so I can lay down?” Akita’s voice was more gruff and snippy than she had meant.
Yukina nodded and smiled. “Of course. I think it would be best if I got you settled. The cramping is a sign you’re going into labor.”
“Will you call Kurama?” Akita sought out her brother’s reassurance and comfort desperately.
“As soon as I get you settled. I’ll ask him to contact Keiko as well.” Yukina assured the girl.
“Yukina, did you- Here, let me help.” Kuwabara advanced towards the two females and assisted the ice apparition in bringing Akita inside.
“Take her to her room, will you, Kazuma?” Yukina requested.
“Sure thing, Yukina. Come on, Akita.” Kuwabara helped Akita to her room and had her resting as comfortable as possible when Yukina returned.
“Kurama is going to get in touch with Keiko and he’ll be over. We’ll be downstairs. Would you like me to telephone Hiei?” Yukina asked. At Hiei’s last visit, he had accepted a small compact phone from Kurama. It was so he could be informed of when Akita was going into labor.
Akita shook her head fiercely. “No!” She snapped through gritted teeth.
Yukina was taken by surprise by Akita’s sudden anger.
Kuwabara guided her out of the room and closed the door.
Akita wept in shame. Her anger shouldn’t be directed at the kind apparition who had taken such good care of her. What was the matter with her?!
Comp took his place at the foot of her bed. You’re crying.
Akita nodded halfheartedly.
You shouldn’t bother. Yukina understands that you miss Hiei terribly. He’s your mate, if you didn’t miss him, something would be wrong.
Akita only scowled and tossed restlessly in the bed.
About fifteen minutes later, a knock came at the closed door.
“Akita, it’s me.” A male’s voice commented from the other side of the door.
“Come in, Kurama,” Akita murmured.
Her older brother entered, emerald green eyes filled with concern.
Akita turned her face away from her brother’s searching stare. “Is Keiko coming? And Yusuke?”
“On their way.” Kurama confirmed.
Another cramp passed. Akita winced. There was a bit more sting to that one.
“Are you in pain, sister? If you are, I’ll get Yukina.” Kurama offered.
“Is she upset with me?” Akita asked.
“Not in the least. She understands.” Kurama came to sit at her bedside, patting her hand. “Where’s Hiei?”
Akita jerked her hand out of his grasp, as if she had been burned at the mention of her mate’s name.
“Oh. Are you upset with him?” Kurama asked.
Akita stubbornly refused to meet her brother’s eyes.
“I see. He’s probably doing what he does best when he feels helpless. He’s trying to keep busy.” Kurama said.
“I. Don’t. Care.” Akita responded with bitterness in her voice.
Kurama smiled. “Of course not.”
Akita’s eyes flashed angrily. “He doesn’t care about anyone but himself, Kurama! Especially not for me! Or even his children!!”
“I’m going to go and wait for Yusuke and Keiko. Call if you need anything, won’t you?” Kurama strode towards the door. He peered over at Akita before he departed.
Akita lay on her side, slightly curled. She closed her eyes as tears threatened to surface.
***
“Yes, Hiei. She’s having contractions about every fifteen minutes Kurama said. It would be best if you came soon. She’s miserable.” Yukina said into the phone’s receiver.
“I’m on my way.” Hiei clicked the device that Kurama had given him off. Sending for an imp, he told the creature to inform Mukuro he was leaving for at least a few days. He’d return with his mate and children when they were ready and well enough to make the journey.
The imp departed immediately after Hiei had given him the message and Hiei headed off as well.
***Akita’s contractions were about ten minutes apart when Yusuke and Keiko arrived.
Keiko left Kazuo with Yusuke and she and Yukina went to Akita’s room.
“So, who wants to play some cards?” Yusuke asked cheerily.
***
Hiei arrived at the temple breathless. He was known for his speed but never had he rushed anywhere so fast. Entering inside, he found Kurama, Kuwabara, and Yusuke engaged in a game of cards.
“Ah, about time you arrived.” Yusuke commented.
Keiko rocked her son gently. “Yukina said when you arrived that you should join her in Akita’s room. Call us if you need anything.”
Hiei nodded acknowledgement to the others gathered and gave a bow of his head in thanks to Keiko. He blurred from the room.
***
Akita winced. A deep cramp with biting sting to it came every five minutes.
Yukina had checked her and informed her that it was necessary she released the water.
Akita merely nodded. Where was Hiei? He’d always come to her aid without so much as a word from her.
Pounding came at the door.
“Come in. No need to break the door down,” Yukina said. Her hands were placed gently on Akita’s belly, transferring healing energy to the pain that had been slightly dulled before the water had been removed.
The door burst open. Hiei stood there, panting. “Akita...”
Unwanted tears sprang to Akita’s eyes at the sight of her mate. “You came.”
Hiei was beside her in a moment. He grasped her hand. “Of course I did. Did you think I wouldn’t?”
Akita only reached to embrace him, burying her face into his chest.
Author’s Note: Please review or give me input somehow.... you know the drill. Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed it.
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