Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Lost and Found: Love ❯ Trial by Mukuro; Return to Hanging Neck Island ( Chapter 18 )

A Past Love
Chapter 18: Trial by Mukuro; Return to Hanging Neck Island

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.



The pair walked towards Mukuro’s palace with Comp following them.
Akita watched Hiei walk confidently with a smug look on his face.
They passed two sentries.
The two demons gave Hiei acknowledgement and then their eyes fell upon the creature at his side. They stared openly, pretty much gawking at the female that Hiei was with. “Who is that?” One sentry questioned.
The Koorime only glared.
Akita couldn’t help smiling at Hiei’s obvious protectiveness and looked at the guards with friendly eyes. “I’m Akita. It’s nice to meet you both.”
An imp suddenly appeared. “Mukuro requests your presence immediately, Master Hiei. I’m to take both you and your mate to her chambers. Naturally she wants to see your children.”
Akita forced herself to keep smiling.
“We’ll be ready in a minute. You must forgive my mate. She is tired from the journey and probably wants to change her clothes.” Hiei informed the imp.
Akita looked over at her mate with wide-eyed surprise. Hiei did often lie but not for the sake of others.
“Summon me when she is ready.” The imp disappeared.
Hiei led the still speechless half-Koorime to his quarters. He opened the door and led Akita inside. “You can change out of those clothes if you want. I have anything of yours somewhere around here.” He waved his hand in the general direction of the room.
Akita placed Toshiro in the bassinet that had been set up near the bed. She numbly went through her wardrobe, going through the fabrics.
“Wear that.”
Akita looked up from her current task. She held up a loose black outfit that she often trained in.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if she wanted to test your strength. Not against her but surely one of her better trained soldiers.” Hiei said as he checked the twins to see if they were hungry or needed to be changed.
Akita sighed, deciding it would be the best time to stretch and she changed out of her red colored kimono into the black pants and black waist length sleeveless tunic. Taking time, she worked her way through a series of stretches, adding sword passes to each movement.
Hiei watched with pride for his graceful mate. Most couldn’t go through techniques without breaking a sweat and still appear to be dancing.
Soon, she placed her sword into its sheath. “Ready.” No one could tell from her outer appearance but within she was all nerves. “Did you bring the contents of my armoire?”
Hiei gestured to an onyx colored wooden cabinet on the wall.
Akita opened its doors and smiled. All of her weapons were perfectly intact. She joyfully embraced her mate, taking him by surprise and staining his cheeks with a blush. She quickly scanned her choices of knives, daggers, throwing stars, and swords. Running careful fingers over each after she had narrowed her options down, Akita strapped a dagger to each wrist. She strapped throwing stars and knives together on each ankle. The Koorime put knives and daggers into places on her belt and added her sword. She slid into a loose jacket to cover her weapons.
“You don’t take any chances, do you?” Hiei asked dryly.
Akita blushed lightly. “Well, it’s better to be prepared. Besides, I want to put up a good fight.”
Hiei retrieved their two children, settling them snugly into his arms. He opened the door to find a pair of sentries waiting.
“We’re to accompany you.” One explained, his voice gruff.
The other remained silent as they walked. When they neared Mukuro’s chambers, he spoke up. “Are the rumors true, Hiei? Is she really yours? And these children as we-”
His companion elbowed him hard in the ribcage. “She’s waiting.”
The two bowed their heads and left the pair and their children to enter alone.
Akita reached for the door. “I’m going first.” She yanked both doors apart and caught a dagger that had been meant for her chest. Her eyes glowed with rage as she unsheathed her sword. “Welcome, am I?” She sliced through another attacker and lodged a throwing star into another’s throat.
Hiei watched grimly before he realized each “attacker” vanished once hit. It was some odd illusion. He went to state his discovery when he felt the slight pressure on his arm.
“I want to watch. I’ve seen her psychic abilities. That was raw energy that knocked me out when she transported you and herself to another place in Makai. I’d like to see what sort of fighter she is.”
Hiei looked over at his lord. “She doesn’t like to be toyed with.”
“I’m not toying with her. I want to see if she’ll be of any use to me as far as scouting and such. She was of value to Nariko.” Mukuro turned her attention back to the demoness fighting. “She’s already worked her way through half of the illusion.”
Hiei and Mukuro continued to watch Akita’s progress.
Akita’s hands glowed, her right hand surrounded by flames and her left hand enclosed by ice particles. She shot ribbons of fire and ice at the coming opponents. With only a few shadowy figures remaining, her daggers tied to her wrists were released and firmly grasped. Akita gave a yell as she threw the daggers and slashed another unfortunate creature with knives. Panting slightly, she waited for any other attackers to come from the shadows.
Dim light from candles lit the room instantly.
Akita looked around, bewildered.
“You fight well,” Mukuro stated. She stood in the doorway beside Hiei and the two infants.
Akita shrugged indifferently as she retrieved her weapons and replaced them in their proper places. “Is this normal for you? Attacking newcomers, that is.”
“Only when they are of interest.” Mukuro walked into the room.
“You find me interesting. Should I take this as an insult or an honor?” Akita sheathed her sword and turned to face the female demon lord. She was shocked to hear Mukuro chuckle.
“You and Hiei have that sarcastic aspect in common. I shouldn’t have expected any less of you. From this observation, I must say that I am impressed. Won’t you both join me on the balcony for some tea?” Mukuro asked.
Akita stared at the Makai lord openly, obviously shocked. She too couldn’t help but laugh. “You aren’t what I expected either. From my first meeting with you, I didn’t think you’d have such a dry humor like Hiei’s. I guess that’s why you two get along so well.” She went to Hiei and took Akiei from him. Cradling her child, she smiled at Mukuro.
“You birthed fine children.” Mukuro stroked Akiei’s hair gently, doing her best not to wake the child. “They take after their father though,” she commented with a very slight and small smile.
“If you two are finished with your odd sort of game, I’d like to put the children to bed. You can give them a closer examination once they’ve woken, Mukuro. As soon as they are asleep, we’ll join you for tea.”
“Of course.” Mukuro said.
Hiei and Akita departed from the room.
***
Days continued easily for Hiei and his new family.
On this particular morning, it was just after dawn. Hiei rose unusually early in order to fulfill any duties Mukuro might have for him. He went to the balcony of the bedroom to see soldiers at early morning drills and exercises. The jaganshi could only guess that Akita was among them, training some rookies in weapon techniques.
Today was a special day. It was the twins’ first birthday. Akita and he had planned to return to the ningenkai for this special occasion. A few friends from the Makai would accompany them to the celebration that would take place at Genkai’s home. At this particular celebration, everyone would also be present to witness Kuwabara’s marriage to Hiei’s sister.
Yukina had given Akita the whole detailed account of Kuwabara’s proposal. Much to the fire demon’s dismay, his sister had accepted and seemed very excited. She had asked if Akita would help her to prepare for the ceremony. It was odd that Akita had turned down the chance. She had only replied that Keiko and Shizuru would do a much better job than she. Nevertheless, Yukina had asked Akita to be some sort of “maid of honor” or something to that effect. Akita had tearfully accepted the offer.
“Good morning, love.” Akita came into the room, dressed in a dark training outfit. “I’m going to get ready. Will you be coming with me or do you want to bring the children later?” She went to her chest of drawers and began to look through clothes until she picked up a sea green colored kimono that matched Yukina’s hair color perfectly. Akita began to dress and strapped a few daggers to her wrists and ankles for a “just in case.”
“Do you honestly think you’ll need weapons?” Hiei asked with a raised eyebrow.
Akita didn’t look at him as she adjusted the position of all her weapons and made sure they were secure. “Never know.” She picked up a neatly wrapped package. “Either you bring this or the children. Choose.”
Hiei shrugged, disinterest plainly showing in his face. “I’m not interested in this ningen affair. The only reason I agreed to come is because it’s an important day for both my children and my sister. So don’t push me.” He growled.
Akita only laughed. “Forgive me. Why don’t I take the present? Knowing our dear friends, they’re preparing for quite a party. It probably would be best if you keep the children until then.” She was finished preparing and threw one of Hiei’s dark cloaks over her shoulders. “Try to dress in even a little bit of something besides black, okay? How about that kimono Yukina made for you?”
Hiei remembered the birthday gift that his sister had made for him. It was beautiful to say the least. The material and the embroidery were of the finest quality. Naturally, he expected no less of his dear sibling. Yukina had a very careful hand and her stitches were perfect and precise. The black kimono suited the fire demon’s taste of clothing. A red, blue, and silver dragon, symbolizing Hiei’s most powerful attack, was so skillfully made that it was almost too fine-looking for the user to wear.
“It suits you. She made it just so her handsome brother could wear it to a fine occasion such as this.” Akita smiled. “You really do look good-looking in it.” She kissed the twins and picked up the present. “I’ll see you in a few hours. Call if you’re going to be late.” Akita turned and left the room.
***
The wedding had ended as the sun was sinking. The time remaining would be for the party and reception. Yukina had looked radiant in her snow-white kimono edged with pale blue stitching. The new couple spoke with friends and family.
Hiei only watched sullenly, seated with his Akita and their children. Akita reached for his hand. He gripped it firmly. A sigh escaped him.
“Hiei? What’s wrong?” Akita looked at her lifetime companion and frowned, seeing the odd look deep in his eyes.
“She belongs to him now. I don’t like the idea of that. I will like it even less if he causes her to become with child.” Hiei’s frown only deepened as he continued to think of this “marriage.”
Akita stroked Hiei’s back. “Yukina can take care of herself. Kuwabara would die before he’d hurt her. You know that.”
“And I will gladly grant him death if he does hurt her in any slight way,” Hiei said with a growl.
Kuwabara approached where they were sitting, his arm around Yukina’s waist. “Hey there, Akita. Hello, Shrimp.”
Hiei glared, lip curling back in a snarl.
“So, you two are brother-in-laws now!” Yusuke suddenly appeared, giving Hiei a hearty slap on the back.
Hiei growled again.
“Congratulations, Yukina.” Akita said warmly.
“Thank you, Akita. I’m very glad you and Hiei could join us at this special occasion. I have the gifts for the twins. They’re inside though. Did you eat already?” Yukina asked, her face glowing with happiness.
Hiei grunted.
“Kurama!” Akita exclaimed, standing to embrace her brother.
“Hello, everyone. I’m sorry I’m late. I got held up.” Kurama explained as he returned Akita‘s hug.
“It’s alright, Kurama. We’re glad you can be here now.” Kuwabara said. He and Yukina departed to greet other guests while Yusuke returned to Keiko and Kazuo.
Kurama seated himself beside Akita. “How have you two been?”
Hiei grumbled.
Akita sighed. “He’s not happy with Kuwabara marrying Yukina.”
“The oaf has no right to have my sister. None.”
“Maybe we should go home.” Akita said with a sigh.
“I’ll stay. I guess I’ll have to accept that oaf as being my sister’s husband.” Hiei shook his head. “Or try at least.”
Kurama and Akita couldn’t help laughing at the face the jaganshi made and continued talking. The trio was eventually joined by Yusuke, Keiko, Kazuo, and Genkai.
A young woman stood off to the side. “So, all gathered in a nice little bunch. Time to tell them.” Keeping her hood up, she sauntered over to the group at the table.
“You know, I haven’t seen Botan. Isn’t she supposed to be coming?” Yusuke asked.
“Are you Yusuke Urameshi?” A figure cloaked in black asked.
“Um, yeah, that’s me. Do I-”
“And you are the demons, Hiei and Kurama? Is he Kuwabara?” The creature pointed a gloved hand at the carrot top.
“Um, yeah. Who are you?” Yusuke asked.
“You four are once again required at the Dark Tournament. It will be hosted by Koenma. You will obviously need a fifth member. I’m sure she will suffice.” The speaker gestured to Akita.
“Who the hell are you?!” Yusuke demanded.
“Only your favorite assistant.” The hood was removed to reveal Botan’s cheery face. “Like I said, Koenma’s hosting this year’s Tournament. You will fight as Team Urameshi, won’t you?” Botan asked. “It’s all been put together. We’re just waiting for you to accept the invitation. The Tournament itself will start in a month at your favorite spot, Hanging Neck Island.”
“Aw, a little tourist place. I can’t wait.” Akita said with a roll of her eyes.
“A rich tourist place for that matter.” Yusuke commented.
“Are you up to it? It has been a year since you had the twins but has your energy been completely restored?” Hiei inquired with concern.
“Don’t be silly. Of course I am. Besides, it’s for a good cause. I’ve got two ningen friends who I want around for a long time. This may be the best way for them to always be like that.” Akita smiled at Yusuke and Keiko.
“Do we really want to get dragged into this?” Kurama asked.
“No one will oppose us. I’m sure of that.” Hiei’s expression was smug.
***
“This feels great!” Yusuke exclaimed as they prepared to board the ship to Hanging Neck Island with a shipload of apparitions.
Akita only glared at any demons, wearing a pale lavender kimono and dark purple obi.
Hiei’s face was just about set in a scowl. Any male demons that passed by paused to gawk at his mate. Purple flames danced at his fingertips, promising to crisp anyone that stayed to look too long. He didn’t know his right arm had begun to smoke through its’ bandages until Kurama had elbowed him. He growled, keeping a possessive arm around Akita’s waist.
“Bit too tight, love. Loosen up...” Akita murmured, watching the lustful eyes that surveyed her hungrily.
Kurama stood, arms folded across his chest, leaning against a tree. He regarded everything with a cool air about him. The sinful eyes that watched his sister soon received cold looks from him. There was also now a threat of plants, ready to maim any who approached.
“We can’t take you three anywhere.” Yusuke said with a sigh.
Kuwabara nodded his agreement. “Well, think on the bright side, Hiei,” the tall human told his brother-in-law, “We’ve got the chance to kill every single one, just to prove we’re meant to be the guest team.”
Hiei’s face changed, an unsettling grin on his lips. “Good point, Fool. Thank you for the reminder.”
***
The ship emptied of all previous occupants, the Urameshi team waited until they reached land. The former occupants were either in the ocean or scattered about in pieces onboard.
Akita stood on an upper deck, talking with Kurama. She leaned against the rail, watching for the island where the Dark Tournament would take place. “I’m glad the ship’s finally clear. If I have to hear one more male ask if I’d like to share his bed, I would’ve gouged out his eyeballs.”
“Does that include me among the lust-filled males finding you desirable?” Hiei asked, approaching the pair of siblings.
Kurama held in a chuckle at the glare that Akita fixed on the black-haired male. “If I recall correctly, you always seemed to be especially gifted at bewitching males with some of your more alluring qualities.”
Akita’s tone was flat when she replied. “Why don’t you just say I use my sex appeal and looks to my advantage? It sounds so much less complicated.” Her comment received large laughs from Kurama. A snigger or two escaped Hiei. She glared at them both and stormed away.
“It’s been a long time since we were here last. Amazing to be returning.” Kurama looked at his companion.
Hiei only stared at the open area in front of them. “I hope to never return again. Only as a spectator perhaps to watch my children pummel arrogant demons and show those weaklings where they stand against strong demons like those with my blood flowing through their veins.”
***
The Urameshi team easily made their way to the semi-finals. No one was worth their time or energy according to Hiei. The others couldn’t help but agree. They met no opposition.
“It’s disappointing. I hoped that there would be some sort of a challenge...” Akita said softly once after Yusuke had finished a fight in less than two minutes.
The five of them were returning to their rooms at the hotel that same night.
“The semi-finals are always interesting. We’ll just hope there’s someone worthwhile to fight.” Kurama remarked.
Akita shrugged. “How are you doing, Kuwabara?” Both she and Yusuke openly showed their concern for their mortal friend.
“I’m doing alright. I just can’t wait for the finals.” The human commented enthusiastically.
“We’ll beat them, no problem!” Yusuke exclaimed with a grin.
***
And, they did beat the team they faced in the semi-finals. Much to the dismay of those that had placed bets on the other team, the Urameshi finished the five battles in less than ten minutes. It was enough to make those who had squandered away money want to vomit.
***
It was early morning. The day of the finals had arrived.
Hiei sat on the edge of a bed, still rubbing sleep from his eyes. He was half-dressed, clothed only in black pants with white double belts.
Akita stood near the window. She was dressed solely in black. Massaging her temples, she groaned. Her headache was still massive. She’d have to ask Kurama for something before the fight today.
“Are you alright?” Hiei asked.
Akita turned to her mate. The concerned ruby orbs and the impassive violet Jagan eye met her onyx eyes and locked upon them. “Yes, I’m fine.” She came over to sit beside him on the bed. She traced the black tattoo on his right arm, the mark of the master and wielder of the Dragon of the Darkness Flame.
Hiei’s hand rested gently on Akita’s forehead for a moment. “You’re not well. I’ll get Kurama.” He stood and walked to the door. The jaganshi let himself out and traveled to the kitsune’s room. He knocked.
The door opened. Kurama stood, herbs in hand. “I’ll make her some tea.” He fell in step with Hiei as they returned to the room that Hiei and Akita shared.
Akita sat on the window seat that overlooked the ocean. She cradled something in her palm and ripped paper littered the floor.
Kurama approached her quietly.
The half-breed offered the bauble that she held in her hand. She accepted a cup of tea and drank it straight down. Immediately her head began to clear. “Thank you, Kurama.”
The youko studied the gem with interest. “A gift from Kaori?”
Akita responded with an earnest nod.
Hiei came over to inspect what Kurama held. “What is it exactly?”
“A phoenix tear, otherwise known as a Flamestone. They’re valuable and hard to come by. Kind of how Tarukane would keep Yukina hostage just so he could benefit from the money that the hiruiseki stones are worth.”
Akita saw Hiei bristle at the memory of his twin’s captivity. She placed a gentle hand on his arm.
Kurama glanced at Hiei and sighed. “Hiei, I know it upsets you but it’s the best way to give you an example to relate it to. Well, a phoenix is harder to come by than a Koorime. Phoenixes are rarely seen in this world. They survive in another dimension. That’s why Kaori is legendary to those that know her.”
A knock came at the door. “Sorry to be interrupting any fun you two might be having, but we’re going to be late if you guys don’t move.”
“...pervert.” Akita muttered.
“We’ll be right out, Yusuke.” Kurama explained.
“Before I get old, if you don’t mind.” Yusuke called back.
“Hmph. As if you need to worry about gray hairs, Urameshi,” Kuwabara commented. “Now, me on the other hand...” His voice trailed off as he and Yusuke began to argue, their voices drifting down the hall.
“Well, we’d best finish getting ready. Thanks, Kurama.” Akita smiled meekly at her brother who gave a slight nod of his head.
“Of course, Akita. I’m glad you’re well. I’d hate to see you fighting when you’re not at your best.” Kurama patted his sister’s head and strode from the room.
“Are you sure you’re well now?” Hiei asked, worry clear on his face.
Akita waved away his concern. “Fine.” She adjusted the position of her weapons.
Hiei stood and pulled her into his arms, keeping her wonderfully close and his grip tight. “If you get yourself killed, I swear I will never forgive you.”
Akita’s laugh was hushed. “To battle we go, my love,” she murmured with one soft kiss.
***
“Welcome to the finals of the Dark Tournament! We have our two teams, Team Urameshi and Team Nariko. Will the first pair of combatants please step into the ring?” The announcer, Koto, requested.
Akita studied the opposing team. All wore black cloaks with hoods up to cover their faces.
“I’ll go.” Kuwabara was already on his way.
One black figure stepped forward. She leapt and landed crouched in the ring.
“Take your places. Fighting for Team Urameshi, Kuwabara and fighting for Team Nariko-”
The being removed the cloak. A female of average height with crystal blue eyes stood, a staff in her hand. Sapphire colored hair was arranged on the top of her head and she regarded the human male before her with cold eyes. The demoness wore a ninja like outfit, a horn protruded from just above her forehead.
“-Hana. Remember, your opponent must be either dead or stay down past the ten count. Fighters, ready? Be-” Koto was cut off.
“Hold on just a second. I’m not fighting a girl!” Kuwabara exclaimed. “Urameshi, have someone else fight her. Like Hiei or someone that doesn’t have an honor code.”
“I’d fight her for you, Kuwabara, but I plan to see what others there will be for me to fight. Unlike you, I don’t really have anything against fighting females that are in our way.” Yusuke called back.
“I do have an honor code of my own, you fool. Unlike yours, mine isn’t ridiculous,” Hiei snapped.
Kurama just shook his head.
Akita shrugged helplessly. “Just get it over with, Kuwabara. If you beat her, we’re only two points away from demanding wishes from Koenma.”
“Note that she said if,” Yusuke mocked.
Kuwabara glared at the team captain. “Once this fight is over with, Urameshi, I’m gonna beat you until you can’t think anymore.”
“If you’re done spitting all over the arena floor with your idiotic chatter, may we begin? It’s clear your teammates expect you to fight this battle. Don’t worry, I’ll make your death swift.” Hana sighed impatiently.
“If you’re finished. Besides, you can’t leave the ring once you’ve entered unless you’ve lost the fight. So, let’s begin the finals of the Dark Tournament!” Koto exclaimed into her microphone.
Hana suddenly vanished.
Kuwabara looked around wildly. The demon hadn’t reappeared. “Koto, start the ten count. Obviously, she got scared and took off.”
“Puh-lease. The thing that might scare me most is your ugliness.” Hana appeared on the opposite side of the ring that she had started at.
Kuwabara growled. “I’ll get you for that, you little punk!”
“Feh, I’d like to see you try.” Hana disappeared and reappeared right behind Kuwabara, bring her staff down, slicing open Kuwabara’s shoulder. She vanished again, back in her original spot. Holding her staff, which now sported a twelve-inch blade on the top and one to match on the bottom, she smiled.
“What is she doing? She’s not moving faster than I can see.” Hiei commented.
Akita nodded her agreement.“It’s teleportation. You notice that she simply disappears and reappears somewhere else?” Kurama observed.
“The fool will screw it up, I’m sure.” Hiei rolled his eyes.
Yusuke sighed. “Well, I guess it’s up to us then.”
So, they’re already losing faith in me. Well, I’ll show them. Kuwabara turned around. “Listen, before you all start losing faith in me cause I’m human or I usually have a tendency to lose or something, I have my reasons for being here. I’m not going to let some little kid beat me.” Kuwabara formed a sword with spirit energy. It crackled and solidified into a bright orange weapon.
“Wave your silly spirit energy around all you like. You still haven’t come up with a way to stop me. As for you-” Hana turned to look at Akita. “I wanted to say hello and bring forth greetings from Mistress Nariko. She said you’d be fighting in the Dark Tournament. I’m glad to see a familiar face.” Hana winked and turned her gaze back to Kuwabara. “As for you, try not to make a fool of yourself.” She gave her weapon a twist and it separated into two wooden weapons with an extra foot of blade on each. “I will not forgive mistakes. If you fail to beat me sufficiently or I’m forced to kill one of Aki’s friends, you’ll pay dearly.”
“You won’t have to.” Kuwabara responded.
Hana gripped her weapons with a wide grin. “See that I don’t.”

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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