Disclaimer: I don’t own Yu Yu Hakusho. The characters Devon, Erik, and Erika are mine.
Chapter One- Not So Secret
Kurama kissed Shiori’s cheek. “Goodbye, Mother.”
“Have a good day at school, dear.” Shiori watched her son leave before gathering her briefcase and slipping on her shoes. Kurama had returned from the Dark Tournament and told Shiori that he had been on a week-long school field trip for science class. She accepted the explanation but she knew it was a lie.
Shuichi believes he is keeping a secret from me, she thought as she headed to work. But he is mistaken. I knew my Shuichi was different from the day I gave birth. He is not just my son; he is also a demon.
I was born with modest spiritual awareness. While raising Shuichi, I occasionally sensed the presence of a demon inside him. I don’t know what kind of demon he is or the name he went by but I sense that he cares a good deal for me.
I suspect he did something to cure me of a terminal illness, though the doctors attributed my recovery to my incredible will to live. I’m certain that Shuichi is behind it.
Shiori dwelled on how she had sensed her son’s demon side more and more lately and even glimpsed a couple of other demons lately. One wad during Shuichi’s supposed field trip. It was just a shadow with red eyes, but she pretended to be oblivious to it. The other one she saw appeared the day after Shuichi came back. This one was more substantial and looked like a short boy, around Shuichi’s age. She sensed those two demons were different in their intentions. The first one seemed malevolent and had intended to do her harm. The other one seemed to only want to interact with Shuichi and it wasn’t hurting him as he acted as he always had.
I believe I will confront him tonight. I won’t be hostile about it, of course. I want to let him known that there doesn’t have to be any secrets between us. Shiori smiled at this idea as she started work.
“Honestly, Hiei, after the Tournament, I would have thought that you had had enough of my company,” Kurama said as the two walked to his house after school.
“I’ve had enough of the human’s company,” Hiei corrected. “You are not human.”
“I am half-human,” Kurama pointed out.
Hiei grunted at this but said nothing more as he knew Kurama was right. If he hadn’t done what he did, the stories of Yoko being dead would be true.
“I ran another series of tests on the juice I was given,” he said, changing the subject.
“And?” Hiei prompted.
“I learned that if I consume all of the contents including the fruit, which I did, I will be able to transform whenever I choose and for however long I desire.”
Hiei smirked. “So, you could return to Demon World at any time.”
“I could, but not for a long while. I intend to live a full life right here. If necessary, I will transform, deal with the threat, and return to my human form and life.”
Hiei said nothing as he saw his friend home. Kurama was known for making a plan and sticking to it. Yes, something could disrupt it, but it wouldn’t keep Kurama from following his plan. And as I am bound to this city for the time being, I will visit Kurama whenever I want.
“Mother?” he called as he opened the door after unlocking it.
“In the kitchen, honey,” Shiori answered and Kurama entered it to see her wearing an apron and cutting meat and vegetables. Kurama immediately put an apron on and helped her prepare dinner.
“How was school today?” she asked.
“It was fine. We had a lesson on a poet and I was asked to read one poem to the class.”
“I see.”
“How was work?”
“It was a little dull. I did not have much work to do.”
“Perhaps tomorrow will be better.”
“I hope so too.” Mother and son continued making dinner and made small talk as they ate dinner later on. Both talked and laughed and Shiori loved how it was oh-so-normal despite her upcoming confession and confrontation.
“Shuichi, I have something to tell you,” she said.
“Yes, Mother?” he asked, giving her his full attention.
Shiori slowly exhaled, having composed a draft of her speech at work. “Shuichi, I was born with a modest spiritual awareness and can sense when a demon is nearby.” She fixed Kurama with a level stare. “Shuichi, wat kind of demon are you and what is your name in that form?”
Kurama blinked. “I’m sorry?”
Shiori smiled. “Shuichi, I have sensed you were different the day you were born. I have occasionally sensed a demon in you as I raised you. I am certain that you are behind my recovery from what should have been a terminal disease.”
Kurama shifted in his seat a little. “I did not intend to confess like this, but I suppose it is better this way.” He looked straight at Shiori. “I am a fox demon and my name then was Yoko Kurama.”
“So, you weren’t on a field trip recently, right?”
“No. I was forced into a fighting tournament. If I had refused, they would have killed you and I would not allow that.
“My first opponent did indeed threaten your life. He had his brother following you and with a signal from a button, that demon would have…bitten off your head. I neutralized the threat.”
“His brother. I glimpsed a shadow with red eyes last week.”
“That was him.”
“I also saw another demon the other night near your window.”
Kurama smiled. “His name is Hiei. He was a teammate at the tournament and also a close friend.”
“I suspected that he wasn’t a threat.”
“Correct.”
“Shuichi…or do I call you Yoko Kurama.”
“Shuichi is fine. My teammates called me Kurama.”
“This tournament. Could you tell me about it in general and the matches you fought?”
“Of course. It is a tournament where teams of five face one another. Most of the competitors are demons, but a few exceptional humans are there too. My team had three such humans. Our team was invited as a special guest team and technically we could not refuse as I stated before. The majority of the fighters aim to kill their opponents. My team tried to avoid that but there were times where we were not given any choice but to kill, regrettably.
“I had to kill three and I assisted in the death of another. My opponent in the semifinals was killed by a teammate who stood outside the ring as my opponent was about to tell me who gave him a mystical item that transformed me back into my demon form temporarily.”
“So, you can’t just change into a demon when you want?”
“No, however, the provider of that item gave me a juice that produces that effect. I’ve run tests on it and recently consumed all of it so that I can change when I choose. There had been a time limit at first but now there is not.”
Chapter Two- Admissions
“Shuichi, how did you cure me?”
“A magical mirror called The Forlorn Hope. It was kept in the vault of the Spirit World King along with two other items. Hiei wanted my skills in order to break into the vault for I had been a thief before I became your son. The Forlorn Hope’s powers can only be used on the full moon. The thing is the person who makes a wish on it…loses their life.”
Shuichi gasped. “But if that’s true, how can you still be alive?”
“Spirit World had sent their detective, Yusuke Urameshi, to retrieve the items. He was the friend you saw the night you recovered. He had died once and was revived with unusual powers. When I made my wish for your health and happiness and was giving my life to make it come true, Yusuke stepped in to offer his life so I could still live. The spirit of the mirror was so touched by Yusuke’s act that it granted my wish with neither of us dying.”
Shiori had listened in silence after her first interruption, but then said, “You stole a dangerous item to save me. You were willing to give up your life for me.”
“Yes. I knew stealing the mirror was wrong and I had asked Yusuke there so I could use it and then let him take it back as I had assumed I would be dead. Instead, I allowed him to recover it and arrest me so I could face my punishment. The Spirit World Prince chose to release me for good behavior; no doubt because I did not resist Yusuke. I was allowed to return home.”
There was silence as they resumed their dinner, Shiori’s mind racing from what Kurama had told her. He admitted that he was a fox demon thief who had gone by the name Yoko Kurama, that he stole a mirror to cure her at the cost of his own life and that he had been in a tournament where he had been forced to kill others and had no choice but to compete otherwise she would have been killed. It was a lot to take in, but she still had one more question.
“Shuichi,” she said as they cleaned up from dinner. “How did you end up as my son?”
“I was badly injured by a pursuer when I was fleeing from a failed burglary. I selfishly fled to this world and merged with your unborn child. I could have allowed myself to die but I did not. My plan had been to recover my energy over a period of ten years and then vanish without a trace, but then you fell ill and I couldn’t leave you considering all you had done for me.” He smiled at her. “I was a cold-hearted demon, but your love and kindness changed me. I can never go back to how I was and I don’t want to.”
“I am glad that you survived and chose me to aid in your recovery. The moment I held you was the happiest day of my life and also the most surprising when I sensed your demon presence. If you hadn’t become my son, I would have died for sure.”
Kurama embraced Shiori, his heart full of love for the woman who had cared for him and had known his true nature all this time. “Thank you for everything, Mother. I love you.”
“I love you too.” They separated and she added, “Now, why don’t you head upstairs and do your homework?”
“All right.” Kurama headed up the stairs with Shiori watching with a gentle smile. He didn’t realize that I knew the truth, but once I did, he told me what I wanted to know. Maybe over the weekend, I can ask to see his demon form and ask more about Yusuke and Hiei.
Kurama entered his room to see Hiei sitting on the window sill. He shut the door before going to his desk. “You will not need to use the window anymore, Hiei. Mother knew I was a demon all this time.”
“She knew? How?” Hiei asked. He knew Kurama was careful to not let any of his demon side show when among humans and he did that well.
“She told me that she has a modest amount of spiritual awareness. She sensed my presence the day I was born and while raising me. She also sensed and glimpsed Roto’s brother and you coming to visit me.”
Hiei frowned. A human saw me? I am usually too fast to be seen by a human.
Kurama smiled a little at Hiei’s displeasure. “Do not worry. Mother will likely not ask to meet you. I will make sure she does not.”
“I would not consent to meeting her in any event,” he replied.
“Of course.” Kurama got out his homework and began to work on it, yet thoughts of Hiei kept drifting across his mind.
Truthfully, he enjoyed Hiei’s company during the tournament and found himself attracted to his friend. He had felt awe and sympathy when Hiei used the Dragon of the Darkness Flame for the first time. On one hand, it was impressive that Hiei had succeeded but on the other hand, it had cost him his right arm. Ironically, the force field that trapped Hiei also had a healing effect and his arm was functional again.
He had felt alarm in the semifinals when Hiei faced a difficult fighter. Yes, he had won but it was not without injury to himself. He had felt awe again in the finals when Hiei unleashed the dragon again but it was briefly eclipsed when it seemed Hiei had died. Kurama remembered his heart aching with grief at that moment. Hiei’s triumphant returned had almost made Kurama cry with relief. Yes. I am attracted to Hiei; moreover I am in love with him and now seems the opportune time to tell him.
Kurama had completed his homework as he came to this decision and he stood and turned to find Hiei perched on his bed closest to the desk, his boots and cloak off. Kurama startled slightly; he hadn’t even heard Hiei move.
Hiei smirked at Kurama’s mild surprise. “That lost in thought, Fox?” he quipped.
“It would seem so,” he agreed.
Hiei regarded Kurama for a moment before saying, “What were you thinking about?”
“The tournament, specifically your fights.”
“My fights?” Hiei lifted an eyebrow.
“Yes and how they made me feel during and after they ended. I have come to the realization that I care a good deal for you. I…love you, Hiei.”
Hiei jerked back at Kurama’s declaration and blinked several times before an amused smirk crossed his face. “Do you now? That is funny as I was going to say the same to you.”
“Is that why you were sitting close to me?”
“Yes. I was thinking about how your fights made me feel. Your first one stirred nothing in me. It was your fight with Touya that concerned me and the subsequent matched that angered me with how you were treated. Your semifinal one left me in awe at your demon form. I still felt that at the finals but I was afraid I had lost you toward the end. I was relieved when you survived. I was close to hugging you then.”
“I am glad you told me how you feel,” Kurama said. “I will admit, I almost cried in relief when you returned in your final fight.”
Hiei smirked. “Silly fox,” he said before pulling Kurama forward into their first kiss.
Chapter Three- All Revealed
The days that followed after that kiss were among the best days of his life. Hiei came to visit almost every day. Sometimes they would talk, other times they wouldn’t, preferring to bask in one another’s company while Kurama either did homework or merely laid back on the bed. At the end of each of Hiei’s visit involved a hug or a kiss.
Shiori had asked to see Kurama’s demon form the first weekend after admitting she knew he was a demon. She had been taken by the beauty of Yoko and asked him to not change back while he answered her questions about Yusuke and Hiei, the latter he admitted to being his boyfriend.
“Demons have boyfriends and girlfriend, hmm?” she had asked.
“Most prefer mates, but some do have boyfriends and girlfriend, even husbands and wives.”
“So, two males or two females together is acceptable for demons?”
“As acceptable as it is for humans.”
Now, spring break was a day away and Kurama looked forward to spending time with Hiei, Yusuke, and Kuwabara. He was currently in school, just hours away from truly starting his vacation. Perhaps I can persuade Hiei to let me tell the others we are a couple or have dinner with Mother and me, once I admit that I told Mother that he’s my boyfriend, that is.
Hours later, the bell rang and Kurama left the school which was a little unusual as he tended to stay at school after classes had ended for the day. He hurried home and once there, called, “Mother,” like he usually did. Shiori immediately came into the hall. “Shuichi, there’s a girl in the living room waiting for you.”
“Oh?”
“She…said her name is Botan?”
“Oh! Yes. Mother, you recall that I said that Yusuke is a Spirit Detective for Spirit World? Well, Botan is his assistant and brings his cases to him. I have offered to serve as backup for Yusuke.”
“Oh, come now,” Botan said as she came in. “You’re more of an unofficial Spirit Detective as are Hiei and Kuwabara. Honestly, Koenma loves the idea of a Spirit Detective team and this case will require a team to wrap it up.”
“Is it dangerous?” Shiori asked.
“Oh, it should be easy enough to handle,” Botan said as she ushered Kurama out the door and closed it. “Kurama, I had no idea your mom sensed you were a demon all this time.”
“I also had no idea until she told me shortly after returning from the tournament.”
“All right team,” Botan said as she and the team settled in Yusuke’s apartment while Atsuko was out partying. “Now, that we’re here, let’s get to the case.” She brought up a metal briefcase and opened it to reveal the tools of the Spirit Detective in the bottom half and a view screen in the top half. The screen flared to life and revealed an image of three demons. One had deep blue skin, wild spiky black hair, and brown eyes that held contempt. The ones on either side of him looked like twins with their fair skin and green eyes but one had two horns while the other had three.
“This may be a small gang, but they’re trouble,” Botan said. “They seek to terrorize humans and possibly kill some as well. The two lookalikes are twins. Their names are Erik and Erika.” She pointed at the three horned one first and then the other. “They are known to fight as a team and it will take teamwork to beat them.”
“The blue one, Devon, is the ringleader. He does not rely on fighting moves or techniques but rather pulling tricks, pranks, or spells designed to trick and prank for his amusement.”
“Hn. Pathetic,” Hiei grunted. “Not much of a threat or a leader.”
“Oh, he’s able to keep the twins in line,” Botan said. “Reportedly, he used a spell on them to amuse himself and insure their loyalty. It was temporary, but it did the job.”
“So, where are they?” Hiei asked, wanting to get this over with.
“An isolated area of the park.” Botan brought up an aerial view of the park and then a normal view of the area in question.
“Yusuke, you and Kuwabara should handle the twins,” Kurama suggested. “They fight as a team and you two fight well together. Hiei and I will face the leader.”
“Sounds like a plan to me,” Yusuke said and liking how logical it was. That’s Kurama; always making a plan that makes sense.
“Hiei,” Kurama said as they lagged behind the humans once they were all in the park woods. “Should we tell our friends that we’re a couple?”
“Why? It’s our business and no one else’s.”
“What about my mother?”
“Well…as she knows you’re a demon…if you want to tell her, go ahead.”
Kurama smiled. “Actually, I already have. Unintentionally, of course.”
“What?”
“She wanted to know more about you and Yusuke. Yusuke because of the Forlorn Hope incident and you because of your visits.”
Hiei frowned. “I assume she will want me for dinner now. I’ve heard human parents insist on meeting their child’s significant other.”
“It is inevitable. She may want you over during my spring break which is this coming week.”
“Hn, fine. Let me know when she’s decided.”
“Agreed.”
“Hey, lovebirds!” Yusuke yelled. “Hurry up!” He grinned at his comment but it faded when Hiei's sword was at his throat.
“Explain your statement, detective,” Hiei said in a dangerous voice.
“Yeah,” Kuwabara said. “Why are you calling them lovebirds? They don’t love each other.”
“Maybe I was reading too much into your…interactions with Kurama and his with you,” Yusuke said, figuring that sounding wise was the way to go. “Both of you seemed to care for the other more than you did for me or Kuwabara. Of course, I could be wrong,” he said, the last sentence spoken in a rush as Hiei put his sword’s tip right at Yusuke’s throat.
“No, you are correct,” Kurama said.
Hiei took his sword away as he turned to Kurama. “Fox, I just said it was no one’s business but our own.”
“Yes, but if Yusuke noticed our interactions, it seems pointless to deny it. I surmise that either Yusuke is perceptive or we were rather obvious.”
“I noticed because I know what love looks like because…because…Oh, hell. I really like Keiko, okay? There. I said it.”
Kurama laughed. “I was quite aware of your feelings for Keiko and hers for you. I suggest that you tell her how you feel. She might just reciprocate.”
“Yeah. Maybe. We’ll see. Now, let’s draw those demons out and kick some ass.” Yusuke turned away to hide the faint blush, but Kurama saw it anyway.
Yusuke’s shown his feelings for Keiko since the Shadow Sword part of his first case. The next time I noticed it was the Saint Beast case. The Dark Tournament really revealed the depth of their feelings. That tournament, despite its proclivity for death, also seems to be a place for romance as three of our team has proved.
Chapter Four- The Demons
“Kuwabara, get your ass over here!” Yusuke yelled as Erik landed a hard kick to his stomach.
“I’m tryin’!” he yelled back as he tried to get by Erika without attacking her. He had an honor code that stated that he doesn’t fight girls. Of course, that didn’t stop her from attacking him. Yusuke, knowing Kuwabara wouldn’t be able to get to him, launched a series of punches that drove Erik back and enabled him to reach his teammate. “Damn it, Kuwabara, leave the female fighters to me. They seem to know you don’t fight girls.”
“Our boss knew and told us,” Erika said with a grin.
“The famous Team Urameshi,” Erik said as he went to his sister’s side. “Oh, yes. He researched all four of you.”
“There were five of us,” Yusuke retorted.
“Yes, the psychic Genkai.” Erik nodded. “We have no issue with her. It’s you four we have a problem with. You humans defeated demons we admired and respected.”
“Hiei and Kurama also defeated some demons and helped us,” Yusuke said.
“Oh, our boss will take care of them,” Erika said and then flashed a grin. “And we will take care of you!” She put her right arm to the side and Erik put out his left arm. The two clasped hands and their energy glowed. Before their eyes, Erik and Erika had gone from one pair of twins to ten pairs.
“You’ll never find the real us before we finish you,” one Erik said while one Erika laughed.
Yusuke smirked and clenched a fist that glowed with energy. “Oh, yeah?” he said. “Shotgun!” He threw his fist and a spray of energy bullets shot out, nailing the ones in the front as Yusuke spun around and another volley nailed the ones in the back. All ten pairs fell and faded until only one pair was left.
“Well, time to call Botan and have these two picked up.” He pulled out a new version of a communicator to call Botan and then stood over the unconscious demons with his Spirit Gun at the ready. Man, I hope Kurama and Hiei have already taken out Devon. I don’t want to think of how he could ‘take care of them.’
Devon glared at his opponents who stood ready for him to make a move. For several minutes, the three of them regarded each other. Kurama stood calmly in place while Hiei’s fingers opened and closed on the hilt of his sword that he held in front of him. He wanted to kill Devon and finish this case. He didn’t care if humans were terrorized or killed. He just wanted to make sure Kurama was safe.
Devon’s lips flicked up in a smile. “Is there a problem? I possess no fighting styles and have not bothered to access my energy. Am I not an easy enough opponent?”
“We are aware of your spell-casting ability,” Kurama said. “You will not trick us into thinking you are powerless.”
“Yes, I thought as much, however I have other ways to provoke you into attacking.” His eyes went to Hiei. “For instance, I could go after your sister.”
Hiei did not react. “I have no sister,” he said flatly.
“Oh, but you do. I know she is an ice apparition and that her name is Yukina.” Devon’s smile grew at the slight widening of Hiei’s eyes. “Yes, I am capable of casting spells. All are of a temporary nature and each one amuses me. I just subtly used one to seek out your weak spots, Hiei. Threatening to harm those you care about surely makes you want to attack me.”
Hiei gave a low growl and took a step forward before Kurama threw out an arm to stop him. “Don’t fall for his trap, Hiei.”
“I’m surprised you would say that, Kurama, seeing as I could harm you just as much as Yukina.”
“Out of the way, Kurama!” Hiei growled. “I’ll kill him!”
“Hiei, no!” Kurama shouted as the fire demon charged toward Devon with Kurama behind him, a strategy already in mind. He would bind Hiei with the grass which he would feed with his energy so that they grow tall and then use his whip to bind and gag Devon so he could not use any spells.
Devon was completely unconcerned at the approach of two demons. If I am to die today, I will be certain to have the last laugh which I would have, dead or alive. He then began to quickly chant a spell, his eyes on both of his opponents. A blue glow outlined his body before it turned pink. His eyes glowed white before he said the final word. The energy blasted forward and washed over Hiei and Kurama. Both faltered in their charge and staggered as the magic seeped into their bodies. Both swayed before collapsing unconscious.
Yusuke, Kuwabara, Botan, and their captives arrived on the scene to see the spell hit Kurama and Hiei. They crumpled to the ground and Devon went to one knee, panting from using the spell on two victims instead of one. Yusuke rushed toward Devon and aimed a glowing fist at him. “Don’t move,” he said.
Devon looked at him with tired eyes. “I don’t have the strength to fight back,” he whispered. “That spell took a lot out of me.”
“What did you do to them?” Yusuke demanded as Botan bound him.
“A spell that will wear off in a few days but it will be an awkward few days for them.” Devon bared a smirk before he was gagged and taken to Spirit World along with the twins by Botan.
Yusuke’s fist stopped glowing as he turned and knelt by Hiei while Kuwabara was with Kurama. He was about to touch Hiei when Kuwabara exclaimed, “What the hell?” Yusuke looked over to see that Kuwabara had turned Kurama over but the redhead looked different and there was a pair of breasts on his chest. Stunned, Yusuke quickly turned Hiei over and saw the same thing: Hiei and Kurama were girls!
The spell, Yusuke thought. Devon said it would be awkward for them. Well, being girls would make it weird for them. Luckily, it only lasts a few days. A feminine groan came from Hiei as she sat up and cradled her head. She then slowly lifted her head and turned softer red eyes on Yusuke before looking around quickly.
“Where is he, detective?” she asked in a high voice. She blinked and a hand went to her throat. “What’s wrong with my voice?”
“Devon’s in Spirit World and the spell he used turned you and Kurama into girls.”
“What!?” Hiei looked down at her body and gasped at the sight of it. “No!”
Kurama jerked awake from Hiei’s exclamation and her eyes went to Hiei to see her female. “Hiei?” she asked in a soft alto voice. Her fingers went to her lips before she lifted them and examined their slender shape. She looked down and screamed at seeing she was female too.
“Whoa, easy Kurama,” Kuwabara said.
“The spell,” Kurama said after a few deep breaths to compose herself. “It did this to us.”
Yusuke nodded. “He admitted it will wear off in a few days.”
“Yes. He did say all of his spells are temporary and all of them are amusing to him.” Kurama stood and swayed as she regained her balance. “Since the case is concluded, I will return home.”
“How will you explain this to your mom?” Kuwabara asked.
“Mother knew I was a demon all along and I’ve shared myself with her. She’ll understand.”
Chapter Five- Exploration
“Shuichi! What happened?” Shiori gasped as her now daughter came in.
“The demon Hiei and I were facing is skilled in temporary spells and as you can see, this was a gender spell that will wear off in a few days.”
“A few days,” Shiori repeated before she smiled a little. “Well, that must be a relief to know that both of you will be back to normal eventually.”
“Eventually.” Kurama followed Shiori to the kitchen where the latter had been preparing dinner. She wasted no time in helping her mother. I may be a girl right now but that does not mean I cannot go about my usual business.
Shiori subtly glanced at Kurama as they worked. She had to admit that Kurama made a lovely girl. Her red hair hadn’t changed but it did enhance her body’s shape. It drew attention to her slimmer shoulders and her curved face. Her breasts were a modest size for a girl her age and gave her slender form an attractive look.
Kurama looked at Shiori with deeper green eyes that sparkled with amusement. “Am I that pretty, Mother?”
“Well, yes.” She smiled. “You noticed that I was looking.”
“It wasn’t hard to notice. I’m not offended or anything. I’m flattered, to be honest.”
Kurama headed upstairs after dinner and dishes were done. It had been a little challenging to cut up her meat as her arms and hands would occasionally bump up against her breasts which moved and jiggled about. Shiori noticed the latter and suggested they shop for a couple of bras in the morning.
Kurama entered her room to find Hiei there with an annoyed expression. Kurama intuited the problem. “Still not comfortable being a girl?”
“Of course not,” she said and winced. “I hate how I sound and my clothes don’t fit right.”
“I agree with the clothes. Mother suggested bra shopping tomorrow and I agree with that too. I dislike how my breasts bounce whenever I move.”
Hiei grimaced and nodded at this. “Yes, same here. Thank goodness this is temporary.”
Kurama nodded, her eyes roving up and down Hiei’s body. Her height hadn’t changed, but her hair had flattened to her shoulder in a kind of layered look that suited her. Her face and eyes had the same soft look that Yukina did. Speaking of that, she thought as a thought hit her.
“Hiei, would you say you’re an ice apparition right now?”
Hiei blinked. “I don’t know. I know I have the cold disposition of one, but the powers and stones of one? That’s an interesting question.” Hiei blinked rapidly and forced a tear to well up. She let it slide down her cheek and off her face; as it fell it changed and hit the floor with a clatter.
Hiei stooped and picked it up, staring at it in horror. “No,” she said in a tone that matched the look on her face.
“I take it this doesn’t happen normally.”
“No. It doesn’t.” Hiei sagged onto the bed and then hurriedly shoved back her right sleeve and began to unwind the bandage around her right arm. She breathed a sigh of relief at seeing her black dragon still coiled around it. “Oh, good.” She then clenched her fist, summoned her energy, and fire appeared over her fist. “Very good.”
“Indeed,” Kurama said as Hiei extinguished the fire. “Allow me to try something as well.” White mist filled the room and Hiei sensed Kurama’s energy change a little. She knew what Kurama was doing: seeing if the spell had affected both of her forms. The mist dissipated to reveal a silver female fox demon. Yoko opened softer gold eyes and looked down at her chest. “Hmm. The spell affects my demon form as well,” she said in a voice a little higher than her human one.
“But still attractive,” Hiei said.
Yoko raised an eyebrow. “Hiei, are you…blushing?” She could see a faint red spreading across Hiei’s cheeks.
Hiei looked away and felt her cheeks grow hotter. Damn it, she thought. I love Kurama and all, but these damn female hormones make it harder to conceal it.
“Hiei?”
Hiei looked over and jumped to her feet, mouth agape and her blush gone. Kurama was human again and had stripped off her clothes! Kurama smiled at her reaction. “You like?” she quipped in amusement. Hiei slowly approached, mouth now closed. Her eyes roved over Kurama’s body before looking her in the eyes. “Why are you doing this?” she asked.
“Well, as this is temporary, I thought we’d take advantage of the situation.” She smiled invitingly. “Come on, Hiei.”
Hiei moved closer, lifted her hands, and her fingers moved in front of Kurama’s body. She licked suddenly dry lips before gently running her slender fingers over the curves of Kurama’s face. She felt softer skin and liked how it felt. She moved her fingers down to the smooth throat and the collarbone but paused when she came to the breasts. She stepped back and stripped off her own clothes before stepping toward Kurama again. She reached out and gently cupped one of Kurama’s breasts. She judged the heft before saying, “Are they heavy?”
“No, not really. Odd, considering I have never had breasts before.” Kurama reached out and cupped Hiei’s breast which, of course, was smaller than her own. And yet, they’re cuter this way. “Do yours feel heavy?” she asked.
“No. If I didn’t see them, I wouldn’t know they were there.” Hiei ran her hands along the sides of Kurama’s body, feeling the waist and the hips and found herself enjoying the feel of them. “You have a very nice body.”
“I was going to say the same about you,” Kurama said.
“Really?” Hiei smirked.
“Yes. I especially like how your hair looks.”
Hiei’s hands went to the hair and ran her fingers through it. “It’s softer and feels different.”
Kurama stretched a hand out. “May I?” Hiei nodded and Kurama fingered a few areas. “You are correct. It is softer and feels silky. Very nice.”
Hiei then moaned as a thought struck her. “Kurama, no one would take me seriously if they saw me like this.”
“The same with me until I attacked and proved that I am still as strong as ever.”
Hiei had a mental image of an opponent laughing at her and then that laughter abruptly dying as Hiei slit his throat, her speed as good as ever. A smirk played across her lips. “You have a point. Anyone who would think we’re weaker would pay the price.”
“Indeed. However, aside from tomorrow, I do not intend to venture outside of this house.”
“That sounds like a good idea to me. I…may join you in bra shopping.”
“That would be best. We should tell Mother that you’ll stay here until the spell ends.”
“Yes, but that can wait.” Hiei pulled Kurama down and gave her a kiss, her fingers running through her hair.
Chapter Six- Shopping
Hiei inwardly scowled as the sales assistant measured her chest. She knew her breasts were smaller but having them measure felt embarrassing and awkward. The associate then gave her the paper with her numbers and Hiei dressed and left the fitting room before tracking Kurama and Shiori to the undergarment department. The older woman was flipping through the packages or racks, comparing them to the page containing Kurama’s numbers. She looked up with a small smile. “Hiei,” she said.
“That was embarrassing,” she muttered.
“Yes,” Kurama sighed. “but it was necessary.”
“Shuichi, do you have a preference of color?” Shiori asked.
“No; as long as it fits that is all that matters.”
“Color?” Hiei repeated. “They come in different colors?”
“They do.” Shiori glanced at Hiei. “I’m guessing you would prefer black?”
“Well…white and deep blue if there is one.”
Shiori looked over Hiei’s numbers and nodded. “Shuichi, you and Hiei need to choose some underwear for the spell’s duration. I would also suggest a pair of pajamas for each of you.” She handed back the pages so they could check it while they looked.
“Are pajamas necessary?” Hiei grunted as they headed off to choose the garments.
“I would like to wear clothing that fits while I am a girl.”
“Yes,” Hiei slowly. “Clothes that fit are more comfortable. But what will your mother do with them after the spell’s over?”
“I imagine that she will donate them to those who need them.”
Hiei said nothing as the kindness of humans was a concept that was curious to her, though she had seen examples of it. Instead, she busied herself with choosing pajamas in colors and patterns she liked and got a package of white panties as well. Kurama and Hiei returned to Shiori to find that she had added deodorant, shaving gel, razors, and pads. She saw Hiei’s raised eyebrow and said, “You and Shuichi may need them and I can use them after you no longer need them.”
Half an hour later, Hiei was putting her underwear, pajamas, and bras in a drawer of the guest room Shiori gave her for her stay. She ran her fingers over the silky material of a bra she had selected to wear. Shiori had gotten her black and white ones and even found a blue one the exact shade of the shirt she had worn in her first fight in the tournament. She put on the dresser top her deodorant and a brush she had borrowed from Kurama.
She then approached the full-length mirror next to it and removed her clothes to see her naked body again and without anyone there. Her face lacked the angles she was familiar with; instead it was curved. Her fingers, with their slender appearance, ran across the shape of her face and felt how soft and smooth her skin was.
She studied her eyes, noticing that the shape was wider and her eye color was a softer red, much like Yukina’s own. She took a step back to take in the entire reflection. Kurama was right to ask if I’m an ice apparition. I certainly look like one, save for my hair color, Jagan, and powers. She fingered her headband and chose to access her Jagan’s power. She focused it on the house’s occupants and noticed that Kurama was approaching her door. She closed her concealed Jagan as a knock sounded. “Come in, Fox,” she said.
The door opened. “Hiei, Mother said that dinner,” she began before she froze, turned red, and turned her back to the room. “Oh, God, Hiei! You should have warned me before I opened the door!” she scolded.
Hiei laughed slightly. “We’re both girls, Kurama and we were naked with each other yesterday.”
“Yes, but still.” Kurama shut the door and went to stand next to Kurama and both stared into the mirror. “I honestly cannot get over how pretty you are,” Kurama said.
“And I couldn’t help but think that you were right to ask if I was an ice apparition. I look a lot like one save for my hair, powers, and Jagan.”
“Yes; to me you look like a dark version of Yukina,” Kurama commented as Hiei re-dressed, adding the bra to her ensemble.
“Can’t disagree with that. So, were you saying something about dinner?”
“Oh! Yes, dinner is almost ready and I was going to ask if you would help me set out the plates and utensils.”
“Hn, of course.” Yesterday when Shiori agreed to let Hiei stay, she stated that the fire demon was to eat with them and sleep in the guest room. Hiei agreed to those terms as they were simple and easy to follow.
Shiori served up chicken with rice and, for a time, there was silence as everyone ate until Shiori broke it. “I may have some clothes you two can borrow for the time being.” She looked Hiei up and down. “I doubt any pants I have will fit you, Hiei, but some of my dresses might.”
Hiei inwardly scowled at this, but kept her face neutral as she said, “As I don’t plan to leave the house until I’m male again, dresses will be fine.”
Shiori smiled at Kurama. “Is the bra making eating easier this time?”
“Yes, it is. It also feels comfortable but adjusting it was a little tricky.”
“I feel the same way,” Hiei added.
“I’m sure you’ll get used to it,” Shiori said.
“Dresses?” Hiei said as she stood in the bathroom door as Kurama brushed her teeth. “I have to wear dresses?”
“I thought you were fine with that,” Kurama said after rinsing her mouth of toothpaste.
“In terms of having comfortable clothes, yes, but I dislike the idea of how feminine it’ll make me look.”
“That may be, but I think it is a better option than what your sister wears.” Kurama left the bathroom.
“Kurama….you didn’t tell your mother about my having a sister, did you?”
“No. I told her you were a strong fire demon, said you were a teammate in the tournament, and that you’re my boyfriend, although right now girlfriend might be the correct word.”
“It is which would make you my girlfriend.” Hiei followed Kurama to her room.
“Yes. That will do for now.” Kurama pulled out her new pajamas and began pulling off the sticker and tags attached before turning her back to Hiei as she began to undress, revealing he white bra and panties. The bra came off and the pajama top came on. She turned around to sit on the bed to put the bottoms on.
Hiei admired the outfit. It fit perfectly and made Kurama truly lovely. “Very nice,” she said.
Kurama looked in the mirror as she brushed and tied back her hair. “It is nice,” she said. “But so are yours.”
“Then, I’ll change and get some sleep. It’s been a long day.” Hiei gave Kurama a kiss before leaving for her room to dress in her pajamas. Her hands ran over the softness of the set and a small smile appeared. These are nice. I like them, but it will be a relief when I change back to my usual self. Hiei got into bed and drifted off to sleep.
Chapter Seven- The Deadline
Hiei held up a short black dress to herself and looked in Shiori’s mirror. It was too short on Shiori as she hadn’t worn it in years and had just sat in the back of the closet, forgotten. The skirt of the dress came below Hiei’s knees and she accepted it before leaving the room. I don’t need any other clothes, she thought as she got to her room, removed her pajamas, pulled on a bra and panties, and then the dress. The spell could end tomorrow or the day after. A few days is three or four and this is day two…or was day one on the day the spell was cast?
Kurama frowned thoughtfully when Hiei posed her question. “That is a good question,” she said. She was wearing a pair of blue jeans and a shirt that was a lighter pink than her uniform. “It was daylight when it was cast and, to my knowledge, spells that end in days usually end at sunset of the spell’s deadline. I think I will contact Genkai and see if she had additional insight or she could contact Koenma. He may have interrogated Devon concerning the spell.”
&&&&
Koenma leaned forward and folded his hands as he put them on the desk as he looked at Kurama. “I’m surprised that you or Hiei didn’t come to my office sooner.”
“Since the spell is temporary it did not seem necessary but when Hiei asked as to the spell’s deadline, I thought it best to ask. When I spoke to Genkai, she recommended that I speak to you personally.”
“I see. Well, I spoke to Devon about the spell the day he was brought in as he was too weak to fight back. Using the spell on two individuals at once takes a lot out of him. I think you will be pleased to know that the spell will end at sunset today as the day the spell was cast counts as the first day.”
“Today is day three then. Hiei will be pleased to hear that.”
“No, Kurama. Just you. Hiei won’t be changing back.”
“But why?”
“It’s her mixed blood. Ice apparitions are always female. She will have to adapt to permanent womanhood.”
“She will be furious when I tell her.”
“I have no doubt of that. Tell her that I am sorry, though.”
Kurama returned home, her heart pounding with good news for her mother and bad news for Hiei. Hiei may be so infuriated, she’ll probably kill me. Well, I’ll tell Mother first. She entered the house and found Shiori in the living room. She looked up and smiled at her. “Shuichi,” she said and patted the spot next to her.
She did so and said, “Mother, I spoke to Koenma, the prince of Spirit World about the spell’s details and he told me it will wear off at sunset today.”
“Shuichi, that’s wonderful!”
“It is for me, but not for Hiei.”
“Why not?”
“Hiei has a dual heritage. One part is fire demon, the other is known as ice apparition and all of them are female and it is this part that will cause Hiei to remain female.” She sighed. “She will not take it well. She may attack or kill me for delivering the bad news.”
“Shuichi, if she really loves you, she won’t kill you. You didn’t turn her into a girl.”
“Yes.” She exhaled and stood. “I’m going to tell her now.”
“Good luck, honey.” Kurama headed up to Hiei’s room. She knocked and heard Hiei say, "Enter.” She did so and saw Hiei on the bed, her back to the wall, her legs pulled up to her chest, and her eyes having a troubled look to them. “Hiei?” she asked as she sat on the bed. “Is something wrong?”
“Kurama,” she said in a horrified whisper. “I’m…scared. I’m feeling female emotions and I don’t know what to do.”
“I would say to go with them. Allow yourself to indulge in those emotions and display them.”
Hiei’s eyes went wide at this. “Kurama! How can you say that?”
She took in a breath and then let it out. “Hiei, the spell will end at sunset today but only for me.”
Hiei gaped at her. “What?”
“Koenma told me that due to your mixed blood, the spell is permanent. He says he is sorry and so am I.” She waited for the explosion.
Hiei stared in shock. “Permanent?” she whispered, stunned. Her chest began to heave and a lump rose in her throat. I’m a girl forever? She felt a stinging in her eyes and her vision blurred. She buried her face in her hands as tears began to flow, each one becoming jewel as they left her face. Her breath hitched and sobs escaped her throat as she mourned the loss of her male form. She cried harder, embarrassed at her actions, but not really caring as she found her cry to be a good released of all her pent-up emotions.
When Kurama saw Hiei’s chest heaving, she sensed that Hiei was about to scream and rage at the unfairness of the situation. So when Hiei buried her face and began to cry, she was stunned and alarmed at this turn of events. Hiei sobbed and the sound broke Kurama’s heart. She slid herself next to Hiei and gently pulled her into a hug. Hiei unburied her face to embrace Kurama, tears still streaking her face.
“Hiei, please stop crying,” she asked, feeling the jewels gathering around them.
Her voice choked, Hiei said, “I think I have a right to cry. I’m stuck as a girl! My damn blood has ruined me!”
“Ruined you? That is absurd, Hiei.”
“How would you feel if you were stuck as a girl?” Hiei snapped, the tears gone.
“I would be upset, of course, but I would do what I needed to in order to adapt.”
“Adapt,” Hiei repeated, rubbing her tearstains away. “Yes. That is what I can do.”
“I told Mother everything I was told so she knows you won’t change back. I was concerned that you were going to kill me upon learning you would remain a girl.”
Hiei grunted a laugh. “Silly fox. You didn’t do this to me. My temper caused Devon to use this spell and my heritage resulted in making it permanent instead of temporary.”
“Devon could have used a different spell in response to your anger. He must have known that turning us into girls would result in it being permanent on you.”
“The point is that I wouldn’t kill you. I love you and don’t blame you. What is that human saying? Don’t kill the messenger?”
Kurama smiled. “Yes, that’s right. Mother was right. I thought you would kill me and she said that if you really love me, you won’t kill me.”
“Hn. Your mother is wise.” Hiei collected her stones and placed them gently on her dresser. When she turned, she saw Kurama naked again. “Fox?” she asked, a little confused.
“There’s still some hours until sunset. I thought we could take a nap together. I usually find that crying tires me out.”
Hiei rubbed an eye and smiled softly. “I am a little tired,” she admitted. She climbed into bed, still clothed, and snuggled up to Kurama who held her close once in bed. Hiei gazed up at her with half-lidded eyes before they closed and her head sank into the pillow.
Kurama gently brushed back some of Hiei’s hair and admired her sleeping face. So peaceful when asleep and simply lovely. Her eyes roved over the fire demon’s clothed slender form and knew it would take time to coax Hiei out of the house and knew one way. Hiei will need more clothes than the one she has on right now. I will broach the subject later.
Chapter Eight- Telling
Hiei returned to consciousness with the smell of food tickling her nose. She blinked open her eyes to see Kurama gone. She sat up and stretched, feeling a little better. She was still upset about being a girl forever, but she wasn’t crying over it. Crying doesn’t change a thing, but it was a good release. She got out of bed, brushed her hair, and then padded out of the room and down the stairs, following her nose.
Kurama and Shiori were turning off the stove and getting the plates when Hiei entered. She cleared her throat and Kurama turned to reveal his male self. Hiei blinked and looked out a window to see the end of a sunset. “I’ve been asleep for hours?” she asked in shock.
“You were sleeping so soundly, I did not have the heart to wake you,” Kurama said, his real voice sounding strange after three days of his female voice.
“I do feel a little better,” she said as she gathered the utensils.
“A good cry and then a nap can make one feel better,” Shiori said. “So, Hiei, it seems you will need more clothes.”
She nodded reluctantly. “Perhaps more pants and shirts than dresses.”
“Of course and your choice too.”
“Naturally.”
Shiori and Hiei went shopping the next day, the latter wearing shoes she borrowed from Shiori only they were a bit big but it would do until she got shoes in her size. Hiei chose neutral colors and boy colors. There weren’t any pink clothes or pastel ones. There were more pants and shirts, but Shiori did suggest at least one or two dresses, hinting that Kurama may want to go on a date with her. Hiei did as she suggested, thinking she could surprise Kurama if they did go out.
After purchasing the clothes and a stop at the dressing room, the pair left the store. Hiei now wore a pair of black pants tucked into a pair of black boots, and a deep blue shirt. Hiei loved having clothes that fit and felt familiar, despite the stiff feel of them which Shiori said some fabric softener would fix that.
“Hiei, you don’t have a place of your own, do you?”
“No. I usually sleep in a tree in the park. My probation from Spirit World keeps me confined to this city with a few exceptions.”
“You could stay with Shuichi and me. I mean, you and Shuichi are a couple…”
“It would be nice to have a place to stay, so, sure. I accept.”
“Good. I would hate for you to have no friends or family to stay with.”
“I have a sister. I just can’t live with her,” Hiei blurted out before she put a hand to her mouth, eyes wide. Why did I say that?
“You have a sister? Shuichi didn’t tell me that.”
“I had him promise not to tell anyone we’re related. I fear someone would kidnap her to lure me into a death trap. I…am also bound by a promise to not tell her should we meet. Did Kurama tell you about a case where my sister needed to be rescued?”
“No. So, you’ve met then?”
“Yes, but we were separated at birth. She knows she has a brother but not what I look like. Hn, she wouldn’t think I’m her brother now that I’m a girl.”
“She’s still your sister. Does she look similar to you?”
“No. She’s hard to describe as I have no picture of her. I could project an image of her into your mind with my Jagan eye.” She fingered her headband.
“Is it safe?” she asked uncertainly.
“It won’t hurt. I just want you to know what she looks like.”
“Well, all right.” She saw Hiei’s forehead glow and the image of a pretty girl appeared with a snowy background behind her before she was looking at Hiei again. “I see what you mean now, but she’s very pretty. I’m guessing she’s your twin as you said you were separated at birth.”
“Yes. Her name’s Yukina.”
“She’s an ice apparition, right? Shuichi said they’re all females.”
“She is and has all the powers and traits of one. I still have my fire powers but I have the traits of an ice apparition now.”
“If ice apparitions are all female, how did you end up being male and a fire demon?” Shiori asked as they walked into the house.
“I’m curious about that myself,” Kurama spoke up as he came to greet them.
Hiei was silent for a moment. “Ice apparitions can have daughters every 100 years all by themselves. My mother snuck away from the village and met a fire demon, at least that’s my guess. She returned pregnant with twins. I was condemned to death and tossed off a high cliff. Clearly, I lived.”
“That wasn’t right,” Shiori protested.
“They fear men. I’ve heard that they see all men, demon and human, as violent and cruel. I can see their point. I am violent and cruel.”
“That’s not what I see,” Shiori stated. “I see someone who cares deeply for her sister and is open about the circumstances of her birth.”
“I’ve been feeling female thoughts and emotions since yesterday and Kurama suggested that I indulge in them. It’s better than fighting them.”
“It is better to act on your instincts and hormones,” Shiori agreed.
“Yes…and I’d like to tell Yukina I’m her twin, despite my promise to not tell her.”
“Now that you’re female, I would say that promise is null and void,” Kurama said.
“How do you figure that?” Hiei asked curiously.
“Well, you made that promise when you were male. You’re a permanent girl now and the girl you did not promise to never tell Yukina.”
“You’re playing word games, Kurama…but I like it. The problem is that I can’t leave this city save for cases.”
“I know and I got Botan to give her a message that Genkai would be happy to have her live with her so she can continue her search for her brother.”
“When did you do that?”
“While you were shopping.”
“How soon will she get here?” Hiei asked as she and Kurama took her clothes and shoes to her room and began to put them away.
“Hard to say, but when she arrives, Genkai will call and we can…is this a dress?” Kurama held up a deep crimson dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves and a round neckline.
“Your mother suggested one or two and I really liked that one. She hinted that you may want to take me on a date at some point.”
“I see Mother’s playing matchmaker.”
“Perhaps, but I don’t really mind.”
“Why did you tell her about Yukina?”
“I didn’t mean to. It just slipped out when she hated the thought of me having no friends or family to stay with when she invited me to stay here.”
“Well, you are my girlfriend and I think Mother’s fond of you.”
“I’m beginning to understand why you would give your life for her. She is a warm, kind woman which rubbed off on you.”
“And yet I can kill in an instant.”
Hiei laughed as they put the rest of her clothes away. She was feeling a lot better about her female state and openly displaying her emotions, knowing she could turn around be cold and deadly when attacking. I hope Yukina arrives at Genkai’s real soon.
Chapter Nine- Sister Visit
Yukina looked at the house and then at Botan. “Kurama and Hiei live here?”
“Kurama does but I’ve heard that Hiei is here as a guest.”
“And they’re both girls?”
“Hiei is. I don’t know why the spell did wear off on her.” That was a lie, of course, but Yukina didn’t know Hiei was her twin, the one she was searching for.
The pair approached the door and rang the bell. A minute passed before the door opened and Kurama smiled at them, though surprise flickered in his eyes.
“Yukina. Hiei and I didn’t expect to see you so soon.” He stepped aside to let them in.
“When I gave her Botan’s message and offer, she couldn’t wait to leave,” Botan said.
Yukina nodded. “I don’t feel comfortable staying with the others.”
“Why not?” a new voice said and everyone came turned to see Hiei in a pair of blue jeans and white socks as well as a white shirt.
Yukina blinked at Hiei’s female form and open manner before saying, “The way they callously condemned my brother to death repulses me. It was so cold of them.”
“If he was condemned to death, what makes you sure he’s alive?” Hiei asked as the four of them settled in the living room as Shiori was at work.
“I was told that they threw him off a cliff. I believe he survived that fall; even as babies, I sensed my brother had an incredible will to live.”
Hiei felt touched by her certainty of her survival. She looked neutrally at Yukina and was struck how similar their faces were in terms of shape and their eyes. I definitely want to tell her I’m her twin, she thought but before she could open her mouth, Yukina switched subjects.
“Hiei, why didn’t you change back when the spell ended?”
Oh, perfect. My answer will lead quite nicely into my confession, she thought before she said, “I have a dual heritage with one of them being…ice apparition. That is why the spell didn’t end.”
Yukina’s eyes went wide. “Ice apparition?” she repeated. “Hiei…are you my brother?”
“I was. I’m your sister now,” Hiei said, feeling good at finally confessing.
“Hiei!” she exclaimed with joy as she flew across the room and embraced Hiei who had stood up and held out her arms when Yukina started heading for her. The two girls held each other warmly and Hiei felt a surge of love well up within her. This feels nice. I like it.
Yukina pulled back, her eyes now filled with confusion. “Why didn’t you tell me before?”
“I was bound by a promise that Kurama pointed out is null and void now that my gender has changed. When I asked for a Jagan implant, the surgeon had said he would only operate on those who can tolerate pain and had lived a life that holds his interest. I told him my story and he then said he would waive his usual fee and instead accept a promise that I would never tell you of our connection if we were to meet.”
“Why did you want a Jagan?” Yukina asked.
“To find the village and because I had recently lost the stone our mother had shed for me. Later on, I used my Jagan to watch over you ever since we rescued you.”
“That went well,” Kurama said as they sat in Kurama’s room an hour later.
“Better than I expected. I thought she would be furious that I didn’t tell her until now. I know I would be.”
“Yes, but Yukina has a calmer demeanor than you. I am not complaining, though. I love your fiery personality.”
Hiei flashed a charming smile as she slid closer to Kurama as they were on his bed. “That’s nice to hear.” She leaned forward and gave him a quick kiss on the lips. “I’ve grown to like being a girl. I know it seems too soon for that but I don’t think so as I can’t change back to male.”
Kurama pulled her into a side hug. “I don’t think it’s too soon. Today is your fifth day and you have had to come to terms with it since the third day.”
“I’m glad you agree. Kurama, you’re not going back to school yet, right?”
“Not until Monday next week.”
“So…perhaps we could go on a date?”
Kurama frowned thoughtfully. “Hiei, I don’t want to lose the person you were. I’m not against you being feminine at times, but you should still be the fire demon I love.”
“Yes…I see what you’re saying…and I think I have the perfect solution: A training date.”
“A training date? Please, elaborate.”
“Here’s what I propose. You and I head up to Genkai’s on Friday until late Sunday. While there, we train our powers and also have a romantic dinner date there.”
Kurama nodded. “That is perfect.”
“Of course, we’ll have to tell your mother. She will want to know.”
“A training date this weekend?” Shiori repeated at dinner later.
“Yes, Mother. We will train by strengthening our powers and while there, Hiei and I will have a dinner date.”
“Where will you go?”
“One of our teammates from the tournament owns and lives in a compound in the nearby mountains. She would not mind if we stay with her over the weekend. I will call and ask her permission first.”
“I know you will.”
“Of course you can come,” Genkai said when Kurama called after dinner.
“I suspected as much but I told Mother I would ask permission first.”
“Understood. Yukina and I look forward to seeing both of you.”
“Did she tell you about Hiei being her twin?”
“She did not have to. Koenma told me before I was brought back. It explained her actions in regard to Yukina. It’s exactly what a sibling would do, especially a secret one. Yukina did tell me that Hiei’s heritage is responsible for the spell being permanent.”
“It is, but she’s not dwelling on it.”
“Yes. It’s best if she doesn’t. Anyway, we’ll see you two Friday. Goodbye.”
“Goodbye.” Kurama hung up and went to tell Shiori that Genkai had said yes. He then returned to his room to find Hiei waiting for him. He smiled as he went to sit next to her. “Well, naturally Genkai said yes and that she and Yukina look forward to seeing us.”
“Good. Kurama, I was thinking of having our dinner date on Saturday.”
“Saturday sounds good to me.”
Hiei gave Kurama a kiss on the cheek before heading to her room, looking forward to the weekend.
Chapter Ten- Couples
Hiei swung her sword and jabbed it while Yukina watched from the porch. Hiei had wasted no time in getting to training once she and Kurama had settled in. She had started slowly as she hadn’t used her sword as a girl and needed to adapt her technique to her female state. She gradually learned to compensate and was soon practicing with confidence and speed, the latter she found to be faster due to her lighter frame.
Kurama sat on the porch in a meditative pose with his eyes closed as he focused on strengthening his energy. All was peaceful and calm, enabling Kurama to easily build on his energy’s strength. He paused in it to open his eyes and turn his attention to his girlfriend.
“Kurama?” Yukina said softly. “Is Hiei as much an ice apparition as I am?”
“She has the gender and tear gem ability, but her attacks are still fire.”
“Then she would be the perfect blend of our two heritages,” Yukina said.
“I did not think about that, but yes, you would be correct,” Kurama said as Hiei sheathed her sword and held her arm out to the side and a flaming sword appeared in her hand. She swung it about, fire streams flying off the fiery blade. The display was spellbinding as fox and ice apparition watched Hiei wield her weapon with deadly skill and power.
Five minutes later, Hiei ceased her sword practice and joined Kurama and Yukina on the porch. She rubbed the back of her hand over a cheek, exhaled, and smiled in satisfaction. “That’s a decent start,” she commented.
“Decent start?” Kurama repeated incredulously. “I would call that more than a decent start.”
“I wrote a list of what I want to do with my training and it’s quite a lot.”
Kurama groaned. “Hiei, you honestly train too much.”
“I used to train every day. I had done some last Friday before the case but hadn’t done any since. I have at least a week’s worth to make up.”
“You also haven’t trained as a girl,” Yukina said. “Don’t push yourself too hard.”
“Of course.” Hiei was familiar with her limits as training went but that had been when she was male. She was female now and had to find her new training limit. It will be lower at first, but as I continue to train, the limit will change. She then settled herself down to work on her energy.
Hiei meditated early the next morning, had a light breakfast, and went to work on her speed. It was when she was at top speed that she sensed Yusuke and Kuwabara’s energies and she slid to a stop next to the stairs. Yusuke was the first to get to the top. He gave Hiei a nod and said, “Hey, Hiei,” before he stopped and looked again. “What the-? You’re still a girl!”
“It would seem it had a more permanent effect on me, though I have no idea why,” she said as Kuwabara appeared and looked curiously at her. Her Jagan then glowed and spoke to Yusuke via telepathy. “My ice apparition half is why I am still a girl.”
“Yukina is here,” she said out loud. “She moved here as she could not stand living with the other ice apparitions. She found them rather cold, emotion-wise.”
“Yukina’s here?” Kuwabara repeated before rushing for the house.
There was a brief silence before Hiei said, “What brings you here, detective?”
“Grandma says there’s some unruly demons that need to be taken care of, meaning kicking their butts anyway we want.”
“Really? Kurama and I are up here for a training weekend. Fighting demons would be an excellent way to see if my brief training has improved my skills.”
&&&&
Hiei unleashed a battle cry as she let loose a rush of fire that roasted three demons at once. She then unsheathed her sword in a split second and turned to cut two demons eighteen times each in five seconds before slicing another in two vertical pieces. Hiei smirked in satisfaction. This was just the thing she needed to vent some of the frustration she still felt at being stuck as a girl as well as using this as a training workout.
There was a roar and Hiei felt a hand slam into her and pin her to a tree. A tall demon with brown skin snarled, “That was my brother you killed. Now, I’ll kill you!” He jabbed his clawed hand toward Hiei, but jerked as a thorn whip lacerated off that arm and then the other arm. Hiei dropped gracefully to the ground and set the demon on fire once Kurama had jumped away. As the body burned, Kurama went to her side. Hiei stared at her victim as she said, “I could have handled it, but I appreciate your assistance.”
“Of course and you’re welcome.” The two separated to continue the mission.
An hour later, the team was gathered on the porch, Kuwabara being the only one seriously hurt and Yukina was tending to his injuries. “Well, that should take care of those kind of demons for a while,” Yusuke boasted.
“Indeed,” Kurama agreed while Hiei grunted.
Yukina used her power to heal a deeper cut on Kuwabara’s arm. “You were all so brave,” she commented. “Especially you Kazuma,” she added with a smile. Kuwabara beamed at her praise but Hiei frowned slightly. It was clear to her and her teammates that Kuwabara was in love with Yukina but the ice apparition seemed oblivious to it. I am certainly not going to tell her that and I’m not telling Kuwabara that I’m her twin.
“That was a good way to judge our brief training,” Kurama said as they were seated across from each other. They were having their dinner date and both were wearing a nice outfit. Hiei had on the crimson dress Kurama had seen earlier. She had on pantyhose and a pair of red flats, the latter off and beside her. Kurama wore a pair of black dress pants and a green dress shirt that complemented his hair and was tucked into the pants. A dressy but casual jacket was on over the shirt.
“It was and gives me an idea of what I want to work on tomorrow before we leave,” Hiei said.
“Same here.” He ate in silence for a few minutes before saying, “Hiei, you do know that Yukina might let it slip to Kuwabara that you’re her sister, yes?”
“Hn, of course I do. I won’t like it if and when it comes out, but I will deal with it as I can’t make him forget. Actually…I could.” Her Jagan flared briefly.
“I don’t think that will be necessary. Kuwabara loves Yukina and once she realizes it and returns the sentiment, nothing will keep them apart.”
“Even me?”
“Even you. I am certain that Yukina would never forgive you if you drove them apart.”
Hiei flinched at the thought. “I don’t think I could bear the thought of Yukina angry at me.”
“Well, Kuwabara and her are not a couple right now. I just want you to consider your actions should they get together.”
“I will,” she said before resuming her eating of dinner. I will consider my actions. I’ve been letting myself indulge in female emotions. It’s possible Yukina and Kuwabara could be a couple in a short time. After all, Kurama and I became a couple in a matter of months and we’ll likely stay one in the years to come.
