More Than Partners

More than partners

By Bane Huntress [Sarah B]

Chapter 2 - First Born 

 [8 years on]

Kurama shifted about on the sofa, trying to move his ankle into a more comfortable position.

Three day’s ago he had been training with Hiei, when the little monster had made him laugh so hard he had slipped off a branch and managed to crack his foot on another branch on the way down before Hiei had caught him. Kurama had managed to stop the bleeding, but he couldn’t mend bones as well as Yukina could, and she was out the country with Kuwabara and his family on holiday. So a trip to the hospital had his ankle in a cast, something that he just wasn’t used to.

So now Hiei was taking care of him almost like they were bonding again, like he couldn’t do anything for himself, which after eight years of being Mates was a little fun and on some strange level endearingly romantic.

So now he was house sitting for his Mother as she and his farther went on a little holiday.

After Genkai’s passing a few years before, they now lived most of their time at the temple as it’s main caretakers, Kurama had a little flower nursery business going on there while Hiei trained the odd student with Yusuke and Kuwabara when they had time.

Right now, Yusuke was doing some intense training with two of his students for the upcoming Makai Tournament, and with Kurama’s injury, Hiei didn’t want to stick around, his protective nature coming to the fro and not wanting the students to see a weakness in his Mate.

Their timing couldn’t have been better for his parents. Even if it had taken Kurama some fast talking, reassuring his mother he would be fine, as they finally went on their holiday.

“Here.” Hiei said as he handed him a cup of tea, then he lifted Kurama’s legs and sat down, putting them on his lap. “Is it hurting?” He asked, stroking the cast.

Kurama shrugged as he drank his healing tea. “Not really, just inconvenient.” He smiled as he could feel Hiei’s passion peak a little. They hadn’t had sex since the accident, which was practically unheard of. But there was something else his Mate was keeping from him, like a half formed thought.

So he sat patiently, waiting for Hiei to voice what ever was on his mind as they watched some crappy pop culture show on the TV.

It didn’t take long before crimson eyes were looking at him intently. “We aren’t going to enter the next Makai Tournament.” He stated firmly.

Kurama frowned. They hadn’t entered the others, a fact most of the Makai was happy about. They hadn’t really discussed it, but each year it was on, Hiei would refuse Mukuro’s offer to attend. “All right.” He said softly, if still confused.

“I have other plans for our time though…”

Kurama didn’t miss the way Hiei reached up and gripped the necklace beneath his shirt. He was a little surprised, he hadn’t thought Hiei would want to use the Life Seed so soon.

Hiei felt his confusion. “I want our kit to grow up with Hanako, Haruko and Akira.”

Kurama smiled at the mention of their nieces and godson. Hanako and Haruko were beautiful twins that looked like Yukina, but were going to be as tall as Kuwabara. They were both eight now and so adorable it was hard not to love them. Akira was their god son and took after his farther, Yusuke, even though he was only three he was a little terror, and would be soon delivered a new sibling if Keiko was pregnant as she suspected she might be.

“I think your right.” Kurama smiled. “It would be nice.”

After all, Youko’s litter mates hadn’t survived and he had grown up with just his mother as Shuichi, and Hiei’s childhood had been nothing but hard and lonely.

“So… When do you plan on keeping me bare foot and pregnant?” Kurama teased.

Hiei’s gaze burned into his own, but he paused before saying. “When your foot is better.”

Kurama knew that would be another week or two, it was healing slowly, but faster than a human. “It doesn’t hurt… unless you really want to wait?”

Kurama shivered a little in anticipation as Hiei leaned forwards, his lust was infectious as it bled through their Bond.

Kurama was suddenly being pulled into Hiei’s lap before the fire youkai stood with him in his arms.

Hiei had gained a few inches in the last eight years and it suited him, it also made him even more physically stronger, so Kurama clung on to his Mate as he grinned. “My hero.” He purred into his Mate’s ear. “Thank you for saving me from the evils of the sofa, now you may take me to your castle and have your wicked way with me.”

Hiei snorted in amusement as he moved to the stairs.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Kurama writhed beneath his Mate. “For Inari sake! Take your fingers out and do me!” he cried, his body a tight knot of need.

“First this.” Hiei muttered at he ripped his necklace from his neck, then plucking the Life Seed from inside its little silver cage. “What do I do?”

Kurama tried to calm himself a little with a few deep breaths. He had almost forgotten what they were doing. “You put it in me as far as you can.” He managed, “Then please just fuck me.”

Hiei snorted a laugh as he took the Life Seed between the tips of his first and middle fingers, then with a look of concentration he put his finger’s where they had just been.

Kurama arched letting Hiei push the seed as deep as possible.

Then Hiei moved and instantly his cock where his fingers had just been and Kurama growled and gasped out his approval.

Hiei never stretched him enough, so the initial penetration was always delightfully uncomfortable which only made the eventfully pleasure that much more exquisite.

Kurama griped at Hiei as he pulled his lover to him, wrapping his legs around his Mate forcing him as deep as he could.

Three day’s without this meant Kurama knew he couldn’t last long as everything seemed that little bit more intense.

Hiei’s thrusts were strong as they built in pace till they were both incoherent as they writhed together sweatily.

Finally Kurama couldn’t resist the building pressure as he screamed Hiei’s name and came, all his muscles suddenly tense as he felt Hiei thrust into him one last time with force as he to came deep within him.

Kurama let everything relax as he fell back onto the bed a boneless heap breathing heavily, Hiei had fallen with him and now lay on his chest.

They stayed like that before Hiei pulled out of him and flopped down besides him, then as always, possessively collecting Kurama in his arms as they rested against each other.

‘I needed that.’ Kurama murmured contentedly into Hiei’s mind, because he was sure he didn’t have the strength to speak right now.

‘Me too.’ Hiei answered back smugly. ‘So how long before we know?’ he asked and Kurama felt Hiei’s hand splay out on his abdomen.

Kurama gave a little shrug as he rested his hand on Hiei’s, suddenly feeling very loved. ‘I don’t know… the records I found in Koenma’s library were always a little vague about this part… They all just said I would know and that it would pass.’

‘Hn… Well, get some sleep, I’m not finished with you yet.’ Hiei said as he pulled a comforter over them both. ‘I’ll clean the sheets later.’

Kurama just smiled, he knew Hiei hated sticky sheets as much as he did.

He felt Hiei drifting off and was about to follow him into sleep when there was a sharp pain in his abdomen. He winced as it happened again, but didn’t think anything of it, he was more tired and the after affects of his orgasm always made him a little twitchy as his muscles settled.

He just drifted off again when the feeling intensified and he physically flinched, jerking in Hiei’s arms.

Instantly Hiei was awake, scanning for danger.

Kurama clutched his belly as he sat up, trying to double over, but it was like a sword twisting in his gut and he fell onto his back with a cry as the sudden movement just made the pain worse as it began to burn in his guts.

“Kurama?” Hiei was kneeling on the bed above him, one hand on his shoulder, the other over his hands that clutched at his own flesh over his abdomen.

‘Burning… Oh Inari!’ He could no longer form physical words now as he panted through the agonising pain. It felt like something was ripping him apart inside.

He had been injured many times, lost so much blood and energy he had put himself into unconsciousness, he could even remember being killed… but nothing had prepared him for this.

With one last growl he passed out.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Hiei had been startled awake by Kurama’s pain shooting through their bond.

At first he thought they were under attack but he couldn’t feel anyone near by. Then Kurama had thrown himself back on the bed, his arms clutching at his belly as he cried out in pain.

“Kurama!” He called as he put his hands on his Mate, still feeling his distress and pain.

‘Burning… Oh Inari!’ He heard Kurama scream in his mind as he felt a shadow of pain lace through his guts from his Mate. Then he felt Kurama go very still, to still.

The sudden silence in his mind that was always aware of Kurama, shot panic through Hiei’s body.

But a quick check and his Mate was still breathing. Hiei opened his Jagan eye and looked closer. Kurama had just blacked out at the pain.

Then he saw something draining his Kitsune’s spirit energy, at first he was alarmed before he felt it steadily drawing less and less energy. He followed it to Kurama’s abdomen. Something was forming there inside his Mate. He moved Kurama’s hands aside and placed both his splayed hands above it.

There was something there, but it didn’t seem malicious, it was warm, as he concentrated he could feel something grow, then there was a little spark of something, almost like a presence.

He gasped as he pulled his hands away in shock.

Then tentatively he put them back.

There was life there, too faint and too miniscule to really grasp onto, like seeing something out the corner of his eye.

Slowly he inched up the bed, moving Kurama’s head to rest more comfortably on his lap as he stroked his fingers through silky red hair. It was a gesture that calmed him, as he looked at his Mates belly.

He had always respected, and if he was honest, revered, Kurama’s quiet strength, with his experience and intelligence making him a formidable fighter.

In their earlier friendship he had never understood Kurama’s almost suicidal approach to assessing an opponent strength’s and weakness’s. He understood it a little better now, but he still didn’t like it. He never liked Kurama being hurt and it always made him want to run in and protect him, even though he knew Kurama could look after himself well enough.

He had been relived when Kurama agreed to go to his parents home after he broke his ankle.

He didn’t want the new idiots Yusuke was training to see the weakness in his Mate. Mostly because he didn’t trust himself not to kill one of them, again.

It had been enough trouble last time when a youkai trainee had taken Kurama by surprise and tried to kiss him. Kurama had quickly slapped the muscled freak down before Hiei got there, but Hiei had acted on his possessive instinct and stuck his sword through the large idiot before he knew what he was doing. Yusuke had screamed a lot till Kurama explained what had happened, and that if Hiei hadn’t killed him for laying hands on him, Kurama would have.

So now… Kurama had life growing inside of him.

Kurama said it was a faster gestation than normal pregnancies, about three or four months. But Hiei didn’t know how he was going to cope. He was already on edge because of Kurama’s ankle, how was he going to manage now? Now that he had to protect something that was so vulnerable and fragile.

He leaned over and ran his hand over Kurama’s stomach again, feeling the old battle scars under his finger before he went a little lower. Feeling the strangeness again below warm flesh.

He let a smile stretch the corners of his mouth.

He had been humbled by Kurama’s offer of his body, but he never thought this would actually work. Or that he would actually be stupid enough to want to have children.

But after seeing everyone else’s brats, and the look in Kurama’s eyes when he was with them. He knew it was time.

That and if Shiori mentioned grandchildren one more time he was going to cut out her tong, adoptive mother or not.

It took about an hour before he felt Kurama coming awake. Then his Mate began squirming and moaning as he blinked his green eyes open to look up at him.

There was still a lingering pain that was mostly discomfort.

“Hello.” He smiled down at Kurama, feeling his chest tighten pleasantly, loving the Fox to the very core of his being.

Kurama just smiled a little and Hiei could feel his exhaustion leaking to him through the bond.

“How does it feel to be a potential mother?” Hiei asked softly.

Those beautiful green eyes widened then looked down at his own belly as he rested his hands there. “Oh my… it…” Kurama looked back up at him in shock. “it actually worked?”

“Looks like it…” Hiei reached out and put his hand over Kurama’s. “It’s stopped pulling on your spirit energy, it’s only a trickle now, sustainable.”

Kurama nodded then he went limp as he relaxed, “Inari that hurt.” He cursed rubbing his lower belly. “I guess that’s what they meant when they said I would ‘know’,” he chuckled. “So how does it feel to be a potential farther?”

Hiei blinked, then he felt himself smiling again. “With my strength and your looks, I think I’ll manage… You should sleep more, it took a lot of your spirit energy.”

Kurama yawned in response before closing his eyes. “Thank you.” He uttered as he fell asleep.

Hiei began stroking Kurama’s hair again. “Thank you too.” He whispered to the sleeping part of his world.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Kurama woke with someone’s hand on his forehead.

“Hiei, he’s burning up!”

Kurama blinked as he tried to make sense of what was happening, before he remembered his parents were due home today, he had fallen asleep on the sofa with Hiei watching some film or other on the TV.

“Hello Mother.” He said, feeling happy she was there.

“Shuichi, you have a fever!” she said to him, cupping his face in her hands. “I thought you only broke your ankle? Are you sick?” she asked franticly.

“He’s fine!” Hiei sounded annoyed. ‘Would you like some tea?’

‘Yes please.’ He said desperately, he was thirsty. “I truly am all right.” Kurama said to his mother as he tried to push himself up to sit against the arm of the sofa.

“Your mothers right son.” His farther said as he crouched down to look at him closer. “You do look flushed.”

Kurama smiled at their concern. “Farther, please sit.” He said as he took his mothers hands in his own as she was perched on the sofa besides him. “I have something to tell you.”

His mother looked a little weary; he guessed she had heard that too many times. But his farther just sat on the coffee table in front of him.

“It’s nothing we’ve been keeping from you.” He assured them. ‘Hiei…’

Instantly his Mate was sat on the arm of the sofa behind him, one hand on his shoulder. Kurama was impressed his parents hadn’t flinched at Hiei’s sudden appearance, but he guessed they must be used to it by now.

“Well, there’s no easy way of putting this… but…” he hesitated as he reached up and put his hand on Hiei’s. “I’m pregnant.”

Both his parents just sat stunned. Then his mother’s warm brown eyes filled with tears as she reached for him, pulling him into her arms.

“But how?” Kazuya asked, confused and a little surprised.

“We found a way.” Hiei said matter of fact. “And we think because I’m a fire youkai that Kurama is having some trouble regulating his temperature. The kit might be causing it. We won’t know till Yukina get’s back and can check him out properly.”

“How long have you know?” His mother asked as she pulled away a little.

“About three days… When we first tried this.” Kurama said.

“So soon?” she asked.

Kurama nodded, “I used a seed, it had to make room inside me that was a little painful.” He heard Hiei snort in his mind. “And we could both feel the life inside me.”

His mother looked down at his belly, then rested a hand there.

“I cant feel anything.” She sighed regretfully.

“Hiei?” Kurama looked up at his Mate and Hiei just sighed as he removed his bandana letting his Jagan open, then he rested his hand on Shiori’s as they rested on Kurama.

“Let you mind and body relax.” Hiei told her.

Kurama could feel Hiei open up their awareness of the life growing inside him, then gently led his mother to it.

Shiori gasped then laughed. “Is that it…” she asked in awe. “Is there two?”

“Err…” Kurama closed his eyes and looked more closely. “There… There are two… Twins?”

‘Well my mother was a Koorime who had twins and you are a fox, who have litters. I guess it’s not that surprising.’ Hiei mused into his mind.

Kurama suddenly felt light headed. Then his mother was pulling him into her arms again.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Three days after they told Kurama’s parents he was pregnant, Kurama was almost delirious with his fever, nothing Shiori put down his throat or Hiei tried to do seemed to take his temperature down.

Kazuya had managed to finally track Kuwabara down and he and Yukina were already on their way over.

Hiei couldn’t leave his Mates side as he moved restlessly in sleep. He could feel Yukina getting closer. And sent her his feelings of anxiety for her to hurry. It was a vague feeling but he was sure she understood.

Before long he could hear her hurrying up the stairs, followed by Shiori and Suichi, who had come over for the day.

“Hiei!” she said as she came into the room, then her eye’s fell on Kurama and she rushed to his side. “What’s happened?” she asked, laying her hand on Kurama’s brow.

“He’s pregnant with our kits.” Hiei quickly explained. “We think the kits are elevating his temperature.”

He watched as Yukina closed her eyes, laying a hand on Kurama’s belly, the other on his sweaty forehead.

Hiei could feel her cooling healing spread through his Mate.

“Oh, my.” Yukina uttered softly. “You’re having twins… But this is very strange…”

Hiei tried not to growl at her to get on with it and help his Mate. All he could do was hold Kurama’s hand.

It took another five minutes for her to pull away a little with a deep sigh.

“And?” Hiei tried not to snap impatiently.

“Well… I’m not sure how you managed this?” she confessed softly.

Hiei quickly told her about the Life Seed, and in a roundabout way, how they used it.

“I think Kurama is having trouble controlling the fire energy the babies have… I think I can help Kurama deal with the temperature, but I think you’re going to have to drain the fire energy from the little ones each day as they grow.”

“How?” He asked hurriedly, eager to do anything to help so he could stop feeling so useless.

She took his free hand and placed it over Kurama’s belly. “Gently merge your fire energy with Kurama’s spirit energy then merge it with the little ones and drain it off, pull it onto yourself… but slowly now, you don’t want to stress them.”

Hiei did as she asked, Merging his energy was as easy as breathing for the two of them now, enough so that he could easily separate Kurama’s spirit energy from that of the foreign presences energies. Carefully he began to drain the fire energy alone.

“Not too much.” He heard Yukina say and he pulled back as he was aware of Kurama finally waking up.

“Hiei…?” Kurama asked softy, groggy from sleep and his fever.

“Here Fox.” He answered back, looking down into his Mates beautiful green eyes as they slowly opened, then Kurama was smiling at him. “Yukina’s here to help.” He told him.

“Hello Kurama.” Yukina said. “Do you think you can make me some herbs? I forgot to bring my bag.”

“I might…” Kurama said, but Hiei could hear and feel the weakness in him.

“I’ll help.” He told his Mate quickly, once again merging their energies.

It took them a little while to get all the healing herbs Yukina needed, then she excused herself to go and make up a potion that would help Kurama control his temperature and give him extra needed nutrition for the babies as well as helping build his own strength back.

“Hey, Brother.” Suichi said tentatively as he inched towards the bed.

Hiei had forgotten he was there, then realized Shiori must have left with his sister.

“Suichi.” Kurama smiled at his little brother. “I thought you had a meeting today?”

Suichi sat down on the side of the bed, taking Kurama’s other hand. “I did, but I didn’t really need to be there, so I phoned in sick and came right over, sorry I couldn’t get here sooner. Mum told me what’s going on.”

“How would your students feel about that?” Kurama joked, “Their favourite teacher playing hooky?”

Hiei remembered Kurama telling him his brother was some kind of teacher in a high school; it was far enough away that he didn’t get to see his family much.

“I’m sure they would understand… If I ever told them.” Suich chuckled, “But I don’t think they would believe me if I told them my older brother was pregnant.”

Kurama grinned, “At least this will stop mother asking you when you and Sakura will be giving her grandchildren.”

The brothers shared the joke before Suichi sobered a little. “I’ve bought the rings.” He said. “I just don’t know how to ask her… How did you guys do it?”

“I bit him.” Hiei growled out with a smirk. Razing Kurama’s hand to show off the small white, but distinct, bite mark scars on Kurama’s wrist.

“I don’t think she would like that.” Suichi chuckled. “She would probably break my jaw first.”

“Take her somewhere romantic and she feels safe.” Kurama said.

Then they were interrupted by Kurama’s belly growling loudly.

“Go tell mother to make something for him to eat.” Hiei glared at Suichi, “And hurry.”

Suichi stood. “I’ll be right back.” Then he went downstairs.

“How are you feeling?” Hiei asked concerned. “Apart from hungry?”

Kurama grinned at him. “Head’s still a little foggy… but better.” Then he was turning to snuggle up a little closer. “Still tired…”

Hiei began stroking his hair again. “Then sleep.”

 

+ + + + + +

 

[One month pregnant]

 

Kurama stretched and yawned as he lay in a pile of blankets and cushions at the back of the temple on the lawn, where he and Hiei now called home, soaking up the hot afternoon sun of a wonderful April day.

It was Saturday and he was waiting for his mother and Yukina to come over, as they did every weekend since he and Hiei had left his mothers home a little over two weeks ago, to check up on him and make sure he had everything he needed.

Yusuke had had a screaming match with Hiei about Yusuke’s students having to leave early, but soon as he learned Kurama was expecting he soon backed down and took his students off to the Makai to train.

He was also waiting for Hiei to get back from shopping, today he had woken with an awful craving for chocolate covers almonds and after Hiei had made sure he was settled outside, had flitted off to get Kurama his treat.

Kurama smiled as he remembered his Mate’s reluctance to leave him alone. But he couldn’t blame him.

The kit’s were draining Kurama’s energies both physical and spiritually. Yukina had assured him it was because his human side was finding it hard to cope with the kit’s quicker rate of growth; also their unusual conception would be taxing on his body.

Kurama agreed, the text he had read said much the same thing, he just wasn’t expecting to be so tired and ravenously hungry all the time.

He turned again to pour himself some more tea when he saw little old Makoto-sama coming around the side of the temple.

Kurama sighed as she saw him and slowly came limping closer. She always came by every week to get a small bouquet of white and red roses for her husband’s grave. But Kurama had closed the little stand he had on the road by the entrance to the temple because he just couldn’t spare the energy to run it right now.

“Hello dear!” she said coming closer. “I saw your little stand was closed… but I couldn’t help but see if you were all right.”

Kurama sat up properly. “Thank you for your concern Makoto-sama.” He said bowing his head, she was a sweet lady, but her nosiness was legendary in the area, Genkai had loved and hated her all at the same time, and Kurama had found out why. “But I’m fine… I’ve just been a little tired lately, and might be for a few months yet. I can try and get your Roses delivered to your home if you like?”

She waved her hand at him before sitting down by the tray with Kurama’s tea and left over bento box. She picked up Hiei’s unused cup and poured herself some tea, “You don’t mind honey?” she asked as she took a sip.

Kurama didn’t think he had a choice even if he did. “I’m afraid it’s a little cool now, I could go make some more.”

“It’s just right.” She smiled gummily at him. she was ninety if not older, but she could get around when she wanted to. “And congratulations.” She said her dark eyes sparkling as she looked at him.

“For what?” He asked.

She grinned a little more shrewdly. “I’ve been around a long time young lady, and I know when someone’s pregnant.”

Kurama gaped at her. He gave up correcting her on his sex years ago. But he wasn’t showing yet, well,  not enough anyone could see under his clothes.

She cackled at his confusion then winked at him. “You have a glow about you, and I know it’s your first. I see your husband is taking extra care of you too.” She gestured to the blankets and cushions. “Also, he cant make tea like you do…” she frowned down at her cup before taking another sip.

Kurama smiled at that, Hiei had got better, but he liked it stronger than Kurama did. It also didn’t help it had some spices in it to build Kurama’s energy levels. “He tries his best.”

“You want to keep that one though.” She carried on. “He reminds me of my husband, doesn’t say much and tries to come off all distant and cool, but he’s got a heart of gold and would do anything for you…” she sighed. “And I’m sure my husband will understand if he doesn’t get his roses for a few months. He always did like children. You just make sure you keep yourself healthy.”

“Thank you and I will try.” Kurama promised.

They talked some more as they finished the tea together, talking about Makoto-sama’s children, grand children and her great grandchildren. She then offered to come round soon with some photos, and something for the baby as she stiffly got to her feet. Kurama was about to help when she waved him back.

“I didn’t get this old by having people help me get to my feet young miss.” She groused, rubbing her back. “Well, I’ll be off, you take care now… Oh… who’s this?”

Kurama looked over his shoulder to see two of Yusuke’s older students come around the other side of the temple.

Kurama got to his feet instantly as they approached, immediately on guard. They had been the friends of the youkai that Hiei had killed, they hadn’t been happy about their friend’s death, but had never caused trouble about it at the time.

“Makoto-sama, why don’t you go home now.” He said a little forcefully but not turning to her.

“Don’t think I’m leaving you alone, I don’t like the look of them.” Makoto-sama growled under her breath.

Kurama had to take his eyes off the approaching youkai as he bent and whispered in her ear. “Hiei should be on his way back from the shop, please go see if you can tell him I have company. Or my mother should be getting off the train soon.”

Her little dark eyes looked deep into his own before she nodded then stepped back and went the way she came without a look back. Kurama watched her go… at least she would be safely out of the way now.

Then he turned back to the two youkai. If he remembered right, one had some kind of water energy; the other could turn his skin to have a lizards toughness. Either way, they were giving off a wary hostile energy.

The water youkai’s eyes were all over the place and the other just kept his eyes on Kurama.

“Can I help you gentlemen?” Kurama asked as they got closer, his senses went into battle mode as he parted his feet a little, but trying not to show it.

“We were looking for Sensa…” The lizard skinned one said as he came to a stop just beyond the blankets. The other a few steps behind.

There was nothing friendly about this encounter, so Kurama guessed they were here to either kill him or rape him, possibly both. No doubt they knew Yusuke was away and they must have been lurking around to see if and when Hiei would leave. The whole of the Makai knew they were bonded, so they must have figured taking out the weaker opponent was the best course of action, the fools.

“Well, Yusuke isn’t here at the moment, you can find him in the Makai.” He informed them calmly.

“What about Hiei Sensa?” The water one asked as he looked Kurama up and down, licking his lips.

So he was right about their intentions, But what they hadn’t figured out was that Kurama would be fighting not just his own life, but Hiei’s and now the kits.

Kurama took a deep breath calming himself as he carefully masked his building spirit energy, letting it seep out though his feet into the ground beneath the blankets.

He had a choice… Fight as long as he could, or let these foul bastards rape him hoping Hiei would get there in time before they killed him.

There was no choice at all; he would have to make this a shorter a fight as he could manage.

‘HIEI!’ He called desperately.

‘I have your sodding food… What!?’ Hiei’s voice was tinged with a dangerous worry.

Kurama had just enough time to send his Mate an image of the two youkai before Lizard had two daggers in his hands and was rushing forwards.

He couldn’t use his normal tactics of being wary, judging his opponents weaknesses. He had to go on what he knew and just attack, he didn’t have the time, power or luxury of taking his time.

He managed to dodge Lizard’s rush only to stumble sideways as a wave of freezing water slammed into his side, taking his breath away for a moment. He got his rose whip out just in time to fend off Lizard who tried to take him from behind. Then he was doing nothing but defending as his attackers forced him back, one always trying to get behind him.

He could feel his energy waning as he skipped around Water’s latest attack then lost his footing as his recently healed ankle gave out for a moment, sending him skidding to the ground. He cried out as he landed, trying to protect his belly as he fell onto his elbows. Then there was a searing pain across his back as Lizard move in with his daggers, but only getting a glancing blow.

Kurama managed to regain his feet as he fled. But his attackers were flanking him as he made his way back to the temple and in the direction he could feel Hiei coming towards him, but his mate was still too far away.

He skidded to a halt as he barely missed another water attack.

Kurama knew in that instant he would have to do something he never wanted to do, and he wasn’t sure of the consequences especially while he was pregnant… but he had no other choice. His limits were almost reached.

He felt tears in his eyes as he sent Hiei all his love and his deepest apologies.

Then he let go of his hardened control… letting his instincts take over.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Hiei almost missed the next branch he jumped too.

He felt Kurama send him his love but it was interwoven with an apology and so much regret that it took Hiei by surprise. Kurama was about to do something incredibly stupid.

Then Hiei sense of Kurama that had been in his mind and soul since they bonded suddenly changed, became blank. It wasn’t even like when he changed into Youko with the slight disturbance. This was like oblivion.

Hiei shook himself then picked up his speed, heading like an arrow towards his Mate.

He could see the roofs of the temple getting closer as he ran, then suddenly a bamboo forest sprang out behind it, like sharp daggers stabbing into the sky. Then Hiei almost stumbled again as he felt his fire energy being pulled from him forcefully, he didn’t let it slow him down, and he gave it all willingly.

Then the bamboo forest burst into flames.

Burning with such a voracity that Hiei could feel its singing heat as he drew ever closer.

The two presences that he had instantly recognised when Kurama had shown him an image of the two youkai, suddenly blinked out and he could still hear their dying screams as he finally landed on the roof of the main Temple.

He looked down onto what had been a large open sparing ground covered by an immaculate lawn. It was now nothing but charred earth with still burning and smoking stalks of bamboo. And at the far edge stood Kurama.

Hiei blinked as he looked at his Mate. Kurama still had his rose whip in one hand and the whole length of it burned with tame mortal fire.

Hiei hopped down from the roof and approached his Mate slowly. Still feeling the silent blankness from him.

As he got closer he was surprised to see the red hair flecked with silver, his ears poked out the sides tipped with silver and red fir. His eyes were still green, but they were totally blank, the pupil totally gone.

“Kurama…” He said as he got within touching distance of his Mate. He reached out with his hand and mind towards him.

He was relieved when Kurama didn’t flinch away or attack him. But the lack of a response was also disturbing.

Slowly Kurama moved his head toward Hiei, his blank eyes still just orbs of green.

Then there was a very distant whisper in Hiei’s mind, Kurama was calling his name.

‘I’m here Fox…’, “I’m right here.” Hiei replied as he took his Mate’s shoulders into his hands and looked into his dead eyes.

‘…The kits?’ came the weak reply.

Hiei opened his Jagan, burning through the bandana, not wanting to take his hands off Kurama. Sure enough he could still feel the kits, they seemed a little weak, but their life energy was still strong enough not to be a worry. “They are fine.” Then he could feel why Kurama was feeling so strange. He had used his own life energy to fight his attackers as well as his spirit energy and finally drawing on Hiei’s own fire energy. He had pooled everything he had to protect the kits, and now he was dangerously drained.

Hiei felt Kurama’s heart flutter and it scared him for a moment before he began feeding his Mate his own life energy.

He felt a note of concern from Kurama before he growled. ‘If you die, then we all die!’ then he calmed. ‘The kit’s are fine, the threat is dead and I need you strong.’

He felt Kurama relax a little, as he blinked the pupils and whites oh his eyes appeared and the white in his hair faded back to red.

Hiei moved just in time as Kurama crumpled to his knees.

“What happened here?!” Hiei heard Shiori gasp behind them.

“It didn’t look like this a few moment ago.” That was Makoto-sama.

“Kurama?” Yukina.

“Oh my! Are those bodies?” Shiori said in horror.

“Yukina, can you get everyone inside and make tea?” Hiei asked over his shoulder.

His sister nodded then began herding the other two women into the temple.

Carefully Hiei scooped his Mate into his arms and went inside where he lay him down on one of the sofas. Pulling an arm away he was horrified to see he was covered in blood. Quickly he sat Kurama up and checked his back, there was a long line, just below his shoulder blades that was still bleeding, on closer inspection he realised it wasn’t so deep.

“Yukina!” He called his sister. “He’s been hurt!”

“I’m here.” Yukina said as she knelt down besides him, her medicine bag already open as she rummaged in it. “Minamino-san can you please bring me a bowl of boiled water?”

“Right away.” Shiori said hurrying back into the kitchen.

“I knew those two scoundrels were up to no good.” Makoto-sama said as she sat down in a nearby chair. “I take it that was their bodies burning out side… good ridden’s if you ask me, attacking a pregnant woman! Scum.”

Hiei glanced at her in confusion as she sipped her tea. She didn’t seem all that bothered.

Makoto-sama snorted at his look, “I lived through a war boy, I saw more stuff like that that you have. Nothing shocks these old bones now.”

“Hiei, help me with his shirt.” Yukina said as she began cutting the shirt apart. Hiei just held Kurama up as she pulled the shirt free to throw it on the floor.

“Hn, he’s gonna be pissed, that was one of his favourites.” Hiei commented as he settled Kurama against himself once more.

“That’s alright,” Shiori said as she held the bowl of boiled water up for Yukina to use. “I found a boutique that sells things he would like.”

Hiei didn’t miss the shadows in her eyes as she watched avidly as Yukina cleaned the wound on Kurama’s back.

“He’s going to be fine.” He told her with a hard smile. “Dying would be against our honour.”

Shiori shot him a frown of disapproval.

“Died once…” Kurama said weakly into Hiei’s shoulder. “Don’t fancy doing it… again, anytime… soon.”

Shiori put the bowl down hurriedly, spilling its bloody contents a little as she moved so she could take Kurama’s face in her hands from where it rested on Hiei’s shoulder.

“My Baby!” She cooed as she laid kisses all over his face.

Hiei was a little freaked by her desperation and the unshed tears in her eyes, before he realized she had never seen him this injured before and she was scared.

He guessed knowing your son was a part time Youkai didn’t equate to a ruthless killer, feared by most of all three worlds.

“I’ll be fine Mother.” Kurama said a little hysterically. “Please don’t cry.”

Shiori whipped her eyes as she smiled at her son. “I cant help it! You know I don’t like seeing you hurt.”

“I need to bandage him up now.” Yukina said as she held up a roll of bandage. They all moved to support Kurama, who didn’t have the strength to keep himself up.

“Ok, all done…” Yukina said as she quickly finished. “Do you think you can lie on your side while I check on the babies?” she asked, so with help and Kurama gritting his teeth, they managed to lie him down.

“Oh my…” Shiori gasped as she reached out to touch the white scars littering Kurama’s belly.

“Old battle scars.” Kurama said softly as he took his mothers hand.

“Prof He’s a survivor.” Hiei added. “He got them all protecting his friends and the three worlds.”

“But he was hurt!” Shiori snapped as a tear fell down her cheek.

Hiei bent closer to her as he spoke directly into her face. “He almost succeeded in giving his life to save yours… a few scars, you can live with.”

“Hiei!” Kurama uttered brokenly.

“For what he stole to do it, he was punished, and now everyone is safe and alive. Your son needs your pride, not your tears.” Hiei continued. “I didn’t choose him for a Mate because he was weak or needed pity.”

“I am proud of him.” Shiori whispered.

“Umm… can I see to Kurama now?” Yukina asked tentatively into the tense silence.

Hiei snorted as he moved back on the sofa so he was sat by Kurama’s legs. Shiori kept hold of her son’s hand as she made room on the floor for Yukina.

Hiei watched as his sister put her hands on Kurama’s abdomen. “The babies seem fine.” She said, “But your very weak Kurama, I want you to rest completely for a week while you try regain your energy, I don’t want you using any, just what the babies need… Oh and I bought this…” she reached into her bag again to pull out a tub of what looked like minty green lotion. “It’s coconut oil and kisuato abura from the Makai. It will help make your scars less visible…”

“I like his scars.” Hiei bit out, he really did and licking them could send his Mate into a panting fit of ecstasy.

Yukina sighed at him as she scooped out some of the light green cream and began spreading it on Kurama’s belly, below the bandages on his chest. “It will also help when the babies start to grow, it will make the scars stretch and not be painful for Kurama or the babies.”

“Oh…” Hiei couldn’t help but be a little regretful.

Kurama started chucking at him, knowing exactly what he was thinking. “She is right… I was worried about them to be honest.”

“Well, just like with Hiei draining the babies fire energy ever twelve hours now, he should also use this.” Yukina said as she then blushed and whispered. “It will also reduce your stretch marks.”

Hiei snorted in amusement as Kurama blushed. “Vain fox.” What he didn’t expect was the tears in his Mate’s eyes. “What?” he asked in anxiety.

Kurama reached out for him as he began to cry in earnest, his other hand covering his face.

“Is it the cream?” Yukina asked alarm. “Is it to cold?” she fretted.

Kurama shook his head as he tried to breathe through his tears.

Hiei dipped into his Mates mind and sighed as he calmed. Kurama had been like this twice in the past two weeks. He just broke down into a sobbing mess, with no reason for it. Kurama had also been furiously angry once, with the same kind of non feeling to it, like he was acting out an emotions without actually feeling it or having a reason.

With a sigh Hiei shooed his sister and Shiori away so he could wrap his arms about his Mate and just hold him till Kurama got a hold of his emotions again. Kurama buried his face against Hiei’s neck and sobbed harder. Hiei hated feeling Kurama’s shame when it came to these moments.

“Hormones.” Makoto-sama suddenly said from her chair, they had all forgotten about her. “I was the same with all four of mine, Crying for no reason, then wanting to kill someone the next, my dear husband thought I had gone mad, but by the time I was having my youngest he got good at dodging plates.”

“Oh my.” Yukina laughed, “I was the same for a little while when I had my twins, but it soon passed.”

“I had it easy when I had Shuichi.” Shiori said, “I was just very happy through my entire pregnancy.”

The three woman then began to share stories as more tea was made and time passed. Hiei just sat with Kurama, soaking up his tears until he felt him start to go limp.

‘Better now?’ Hiei asked.

‘I’m sorry.’ Kurama said with fatigue. ‘I know you don’t like it…’

‘I would hate it more if you tried to hide it from me.’ Hiei answered back.

‘I make us weak….’

Hiei wanted to bite him in frustration. ‘We knew that when we started this.’ Hiei snapped. ‘I’ll ask Koenma to send some guards; maybe Yusuke can get someone to patrol as well.’

Kurama sighed in his mind. ‘Asking for help?’ he said in his more usual haughty manner.

‘Hn, when you are concerned. Yes.’ Hiei smiled back as he kissed his Mates forehead.

Kurama gave a purr of contentment as his eyes closed. ‘Did you get me my chocolate covered almonds?’

Hiei could feel the need for the silly hard to find sweets and he groaned, he had left the shopping in the forest in his hast. ‘Why don’t you sleep… and I’ll go get them.’

Kurama uttered something before falling asleep.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Hiei felt grubby, after leaving Kurama with the three women, he had gone into the back yard and wrapped the two chard youkai up in an old sheet, then using his fire energy he burned what was left of Kurama’s bamboo trap till the ground was level again and covered with ash, then he racked it all into the dry soil, when that was done he got a bag of grass seed from one of the many store houses and reseeded the lawn, finally he hosed the whole lot down. It took him about an hour, but he knew Kurama would appreciate the effort.

Then he took the bodies and threw them into one of the deepest coldest caves as far from the temple compound as he could manage, Yusuke could deal with them once he got back, send them back to their families, or just leave them to rot.

Then he went and hunted down his shopping. It proved harder to find, mostly because he couldn’t remember where he had dropped it.

He got a little desperate when he felt Kurama waking up. But it still took him another ten minutes to find his bags.

‘Stop fretting, I found them.’ Hiei told his Mates as he felt his anxiety and hunger. He even checked to see if the five bag’s of chocolate almonds the shop had were still there. He didn’t know why his Mate couldn’t just have sugared almonds, they were easier to find.

‘Because I need chocolate ones.’ Kurama said sleepily.

‘Couldn’t I just have got your favourite chocolate and a bag of normal almonds?’ Hiei muttered.

Kurama paused as he thought about it before Hiei sensed he was about to start crying again, or going to rip his head off. ‘No…’ Kurama answered, so tears it was.

‘Shh… Shhh… I’m almost home… let me just get clean first?’ Hiei tried to soothe him. He knew Kurama was already eating a tuna salad that Shiori had made for him.

‘Just hurry?’

‘I am.’ Hiei reassured as he doubled his pace.

When he finally got back to the temple he put the shopping in the kitchen then went to get a shower and new clothes.

By the time he got back to the living room, Kurama was sat up on the sofa waiting for him.

Shiori was in the kitchen preparing a proper meal, Makoto-sama must have gone home, and Yukina was in the hall talking to her little girls on the phone.

Kurama looked at him expectantly as Hiei sat down besides him, then he slowly opened the plastic bag and looked inside. He could feel Kurama almost quivering in anticipation at his side.

Slowly Hiei reached inside, taking out one of the treats, he sniffed it tentatively, he had to admit, they did smell good. With a wicked smile he licked the chocolate hearing Kurama groan with need.

With a flick of his wrist he popped the whole thing into his mouth, then before Kurama could kill him, he grabbed his Mates face and kissed him, licking the sweet into Kurama’s mouth, then pulled away.

Kurama’s eyes narrowed and glazed over with pleasure. Much like when he orgasmed. As he chewed on the treat.

“More…” Kurama purred at him.

Hiei quickly did the same, they hadn’t had sex since Kurama got pregnant, Yukina had softly warned against penetration. Hiei had been willing to go uki, but Kurama had been too exhausted for anything so strenuous, even hand jobs. So watching his Mate in such ecstasy was hard to resist.

After the sixth one Hiei knew Kurama was too tired to continue with the game, so putting the bag aside, he pulled the Kitsune onto his lap, arranging him so they were both comfortable. Once again pulling the blanket that covered his Mate over them both. Then he picked up another almond and popped it straight into Kurama’s mouth.

“Just eat,” He grinned as Kurama snuggled up to him.

“I’m sorry.” Kurama said again as he chewed on another sweet. “I want too… “

Hiei sighed, “I know… But I think we will survive this… But I’m disappointed I’m losing out to chocolate covered almonds right now.” He chuckled as he petted his Mate’s hair.

Kurama grinned. “I’ll eat you soon enough.” He winked.

Hiei rolled his eyes, “Shut up and eat, then more sleep. What ever your mothers cooking smells good, so I’ll wake you for it.”

Kurama settled down a little more as he carried on eating.

 

+ + + + + +

 

When Yusuke had got back from the Makai and leaned what had happened with his old students, he had been pissed till Hiei had almost taken his head off the moment they met. So he had agreed not to take anymore students to the temple any time soon.

He had also been surprised at Kurama, who followed Hiei around like a shadow, that’s when he wasn’t sleeping, or eating.

He had come over with Shiori and Yukina for the weekend with his own small family.

Akira was now playing in a sand pit they had set up for him, while he and Hiei began to set up a fire pit for a barbeque that night.

Kurama was asleep and the women were all sat around on blankets they had set up earlier, drinking tea and gossiping.

“So how have things been here?” Yusuke asked his friend, “I see Koenma sent some of his spirit guards to patrol this place.”

“After what happened, I’ll tolerate them.” Hiei snorted as he set up wood in the fire pit. “It’s only another one and a half months.”

“Oh yeah, Yukina said on the way here. Man, Keiko was a nightmare to live with when she was pregnant, and that was for nine months.” Yusuke hissed with a grin.

Hiei glanced at him, then he grinned too. “Kurama has his moment.”

Yusuke slapped him on the back, “Haha, I can imagine!”

Hiei growled at him before suddenly going still. “Your about to see.” He sighed before turning towards the temple.

“HIEI!” Kurama screamed angrily from the temple porch, “Where the hell is my Earl grey tea! And WHO ate my cream bun! I was saving it! You know that!” Yusuke took a step back and towards his son. The fury coming off Kurama was almost physical.

Hiei sighed deeply. “He’s not going to hurt anyone.” He hissed at him as he began walking towards the Kitsune. “The tea is in the cupboard, and you ate your bun before going to sleep.”

Yusuke watched as Kurama slumped, his anger fading instantly as he looked confused. “I did?”

Hiei finally reached him, taking Kurama’s hands. The little squirt had grown, but he still had to look up at his husband.

“We can go get you another bun if you want more?” Hiei said soothingly.

Kurama slumped a little, lifting their hands to his face and hiding behind them. “I forgot…”

Yusuke sighed and turned away, he was sure his friends didn’t want them all to see Kurama like this.

“Wow!” he gasped as he looked at his son, who had built a huge castle. “Look at that, my son’s going to be an architect!” it was enough to distract the woman to turn their heads.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Kurama couldn’t believe he had forgotten something so stupid, and as soon as his anger came it disappeared, replaced with shame.

Not a day went by now that his mood swings didn’t have him all out of sorts. For over a week now he had completely lost his hardened control on his emotions. Like now, he was shouting with anger. Normally when he got angry, he got quiet, he didn’t run around shouting like an idiot.

He also couldn’t stop crying at the slightest thing. When he was throwing up violently in the morning, he cried. When he ait something he enjoyed, he cried. It was annoying and was testing his resolve that only made him mad with frustration because he couldn’t control it at all.

Then there was the stupid anxieties.

When ever Hiei wasn’t with him he thought his Mate didn’t love him anymore, that he had run off and left him. So in a panic he called his Mate to him and once Hiei got to him, Kurama either cried with piteously relief, or screamed at him in a fury so great it was overwhelming.

But he couldn’t fault Hiei, he was always calm and reassuring, got him every stupid request for his cravings, would hug him and sooth him.

Kurama was waiting for Hiei to get annoyed with him, but it had never happened how ever hard Kurama pushed when he was uncontrollably angry.

“I would like some more buns…” He whispered as he hid behind their hands.

He wanted to apologise for the millionth time, but knew Hiei was bored of hearing it.

Hiei squeezed his hands. “Want me to go get them, or do you want to come with me?”

Kurama was just about to say he would go when something moved in his already distending belly. It was like butterflies inside him. He let Hiei’s hands go as he placed his own on his belly as he looked down at the loose fitting shirt he had on.

“What is it?” Hiei asked, looking a little confused.

Kurama grabbed his Mates hands and pushed them flat against his belly. There was another flutter and Hiei gasped out is surprise.

‘Did you feel it?’ Kurama whispered, like talking loud would make it stop.

Hiei nodded, then he was pulling his hands away as he grabbed Kurama’s shirt, moving it up so he could lean down and put his ear to Kurama’s protruding belly.

Kurama felt a stronger fluttering and Hiei laughed, then he stood straight and pulled Kurama down for a deep kiss.

“I love you.” Hiei said as they pulled apart a little.

“I love you too.” Kurama felt his chest swell, he knew Hiei loved him, but he never said it often, so it was always special when he did.

“Come, I’ll go get you your cream buns. You sit with your mother while I’m gone.” Hiei said pulling him gently towards everyone else. “Will you be okay with that?”

Kurama nodded as his mouth watered at the thought.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Yusuke woke with a start, realizing he needed to pee. After last night he wasn’t surprised, he had downed enough beer with Hiei to knock out a horse. But he was sure Kurama had actually tried eating one.

The women had all been gushing over Kurama, feeling his belly and squealing with delight. When Hiei got back with a stack of box’s from the bakery, he began feeding cream buns to Kurama. He ate five before Yusuke had the barbeque ready, then Hiei was feeding Kurama the lion’s share of everything, chicken, fish, beef, lamb even the vegis. Finally Kurama ate what was left of the different buns and cake Hiei had bought before falling asleep.

Now he got up, trying not to disturb Keiko and Akira, who had sneaked into their bed, and made his way to the bathroom.

Dawn was just about to brake and it felt like it was going to be another nice day, he was planning of taking his son for a run around the forest before they went home.

He stretched then began to open his PJ’s so he could pee when the door was thrown open and Hiei dashed in, grabbed him and threw him into the corridor.

Yusuke growled, instantly losing his good mood when he saw Hiei helping Kurama into the bathroom and over to the toilet, where Kurama sank to his knees and instantly began throwing up. Hiei was holding Kurama’s hair out of the way as he rubbed his back.

Yusuke winced as he watched, then leaned against the doorframe to wait as Kurama just kept puking, every now and then Hiei would flush the toilet before Kurama started again.

“If you still need to go.” Hiei said over his shoulder. “I suggest you use the guest bathroom in the main part of the temple.”

Yusuke shrugged then he remembered something. “Do you have any ginger, or ginger tea in the kitchen?” he asked.

“Yes...” Kurama said between bouts of sick.

Yusuke ran into the kitchen and quickly boiled some water then found some tea in the cupboard.

When he got back to the bathroom, Kurama was sobbing in Hiei’s arms. He walked over and bobbed down besides the two. “Here, drink this, used to help Keiko a lot.”

Hiei took the cup, sniffed it then held it for Kurama to sip.

“Should make you feel a little better?” Yusuke asked as he patted his friends knee.

Kurama nodded, then his eyes filled with more tears, but Hiei jostled him then offered more tea.

Yusuke couldn’t help but see Kurama as a little bit more human, which wasn’t really fair, because Kurama was one of the bravest, intelligent and most stable people he knew. Actually seeing his friend express so many emotions was strange, but reassuring all at the same time. He also knew Kurama must be hating it right now.

Finally Kurama fell asleep as he rested against Hiei. Who downed the rest of the tea Kurama didn’t finish.

“Must work.” Hiei said as he looked into the empty cup.

“Sure helped Keiko when she had morning sickness.” Yusuke grinned

“Hn… Well we are normally at this for another hour or so.” Hiei grunted, “The fact he’s fallen asleep again is good.”

“That’s great then.” Yusuke said as he got to his feet. “You need any help getting him back to your room?”

Hiei just stood with Kurama in his arms. “I’ve been managing for weeks, so thank you, but no.”

“What ever man, just so long as I can pee now I’m good.”

Hiei gave him an amused grin before he left the bathroom.

Yusuke finished up in the bathroom then went back to bed; he crawled in next to his wife and son, putting his arms around both of them.

“You okay?” Keiko asked sleepily.

“Ya, get some more sleep.”

Keiko snuggled a little. “You smell of sick.” She uttered. “And ginger… your not pregnant are you?”

Yusuke chuckled. “I hope not, Kurama’s a mess… I think I’ll leave it to insane spirit Kitsune’s and the fairer sex.”

“Shame.” Keiko yawned. “Because I’m pregnant again.”

Yusuke sat up suddenly as he looked down at his wife. “Seriously? But you said it was too early to tell!”

Keiko rolled her eyes at him. “That was two months ago before you ran off to train your little worshipers.”

“Why didn’t you tell me when I got back?” he gasped.

She smiled. “Because I wanted to be sure.”

Yusuke grinned as he leaned down and kissed her. “You’re wonderful.” He whispered.

“I know.” She smiled up at him.

He kissed her again.

“Me too! Me tooo daddy!”

They pulled apart laughing as Yusuke’s little son demanded a cuddle and a kiss too, so Yusuke scooped him up and kissed and hugged him too.

For that moment, Yusuke thought he was the luckiest man in all three worlds.

 

+ + + + + +

 

[Two months and three weeks]

 

Kurama cursed as he paused again to catch his breath, he was a week away from giving birth, and he wanted it over with.

Over the last month he had swelled up till he was sure he would never see his swollen feet again. The skin on his belly was stretched taught as the kit’s grew, the cream, Yukina had given him had been a miracle, he was sure without it he would have been in agony. Normal human pregnancies the skin had time to stretch, with a three month pregnancy Kurama’s body was constantly under stress to make room and adapt.

At least he wasn’t throwing up anymore and his fragile emotional state had calmed. Now he was just stuck with being incredibly weak and having to have Hiei help him ever time he needed to pee, which was a lot, especially if one of the kits decided to shove it’s foot in his bladed, never mind the embarrassment when one found his prostate. The first time that had happened he had almost screamed, then wanted to kill Hiei because the little basted always thought it was a great laugh.

Now he just wanted some tea and some food. His hunger was almost a constant presence as the kit’s drained his physical and spiritual strength.

The kit’s suddenly began kicking and squirming inside him and he put a hand on his swollen belly. “Just ease up,” he almost begged. “I’ll feed you soon. I just need to get to the kitchen first.”

“They awake?” Hiei was suddenly at his side.

Kurama sighed deeply. “I think they have already started training in here.” He said rubbing a sore spot a fist had just been punched into.

Hiei grinned as he also ran his hand over a protruding knee. “They are hungry… come on.”

Hiei led him into the kitchen where Kurama was surprised to see the kitchen table covered with food and a pot of tea already seeping.

Hiei helped him sit down then gestured to the table, “Is there anything you want to eat.”

Kurama just shook his head as he reached for a bowl of rice and began digging into a chicken stir fry as he eyed up the spring rolls.

Kurama was half way through his third helping when he started to feel a little dizzy and hot. He knew the signs. “Hiei…” He groaned.

Instantly his Mate was at his side. “They need draining again?”

Kurama nodded as he grit his teeth.

Hiei put his hands on Kurama’s bump and began drawing the kit’s fire energy away. “They are getting stronger. Is their spirit energy not bothering you?”

Kurama sighed as his temperature began to lower. “No, but I have to wonder why they are so greedy for my own as well.”

“Carry on eating.” Hiei said as he began eating a spring roll. “Then we can go take a nap outside, it’s a nice day.”

Kurama purred at the thought before he changed the subject. “Yukina’s coming over tomorrow isn’t she?”

Hiei nodded, devouring another roll. “Your mothers coming at the weekend… How public do you want to make this?”

Kurama sighed, “Not very.” He confessed. He had already started nesting, their room was covered with vines and the floor covered in soft moss. Hiei had rolled his eyes when he had brought in pots a few days ago, but said nothing. “To be honest… I just want you and my mother… But Yukina for obvious reasons.” He confessed. He couldn’t exactly go to a hospital for the birth.

Instinctively he wanted to slink away to one of his dens in the forest to give birth with Hiei guarding the entrance. But he knew it wasn’t practical and he was having far more than a natural birth. So he wanted his mother there for reassurance and Yukina in case something went wrong and Hiei wouldn’t leave his side.

He didn’t think he could cope if there were more people near; the spirit world guard were enough of a disturbance, even if they just stayed at the perimeter to the grounds.

He felt Hiei reach out and began rubbing his sore back. “Then they are the only people who are going to be here… Everyone else can come over the next day.”

Kurama smiled as he felt reassured. Hiei would make sure no one else got near. “You’re too good to me.” He whispered with a fond smile.

Hiei looked at him sideways and smiled. “And don’t you forget it Fox.”

Kurama leaned towards him. “Never, my Mate.” He answered in a sultry tone, lifting his hands to touch the mate marks on his neck.

Hiei’s eyes went wide then narrowed as he grinned. “My Fox.” Hiei growled as he moved in to lick the marks. “My pretty Fox.”

Kurama groaned with pleasure then winced and gave a little cry as the kits once again tried to fight there way out of his stomach. “Sorry…” he sighed in regret.

Hiei just chuckled at him as he stood and hugged him. “Don’t be.” He said as he began stoking his hair.

Kurama closed his eyes as he leaned against his Mate, letting Hiei take his weight as he always did. He put his own arms around Hiei’s waist and hugged him tight.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Kurama was restless, he had woken up feeling like there was something he should be doing, but couldn’t quite figure out what.

Hiei had offered to make him food, but he strangely wasn’t hungry, in fact the thought of food was repellent, he didn’t even want to drink his favourite tea.

Hiei had looked at him with concern, but didn’t say anything. His mother and Yukina had voiced their concerns, but Kurama had just shrugged them off as he had gone back to his room.

Hiei his constant silent shadow.

For the morning he had busied himself with making the moss on the floor a little more green and deeper, then made the vines all across the walls and ceiling bloom into his favourite red roses, filling the room with their sent. He had also changed the futon mattress with Hiei’s help, then found his favourite soft sheets and pillows, pooling them all up in the darkest corner of the room, he finally snuggled down and had a nap.

When he woke Hiei was sat at his side, one hand on his shoulder, the other holding a book he had been reading.

“I need to walk…” He whispered.

Hiei had helped him up, as he had to every time Kurama wanted to move. Then they went outside.

Kurama breathed in the warm early July air, but the forest was calling to him, so he walked that way. When he tired Hiei helped him sit, before they carried on.

Kurama touching a tree or a flower as they walked.

It always felt good to be around flora and fawner, they were his weapons or his healers, his kitsune soul sang to them and they always answered. Through the whole thing the kits were at peace. They seemed to feel the life around them and respect it as much as Kurama always had.

Finally he had gone far enough and when he turned to his Mate, Hiei had just picked him up in his arms and slowly walked back to the Temple.

‘I thought we had another day…’ Kurama whispered into Hiei’s mind as he rested his arms around his Mates shoulder, resting his forehead against Hiei’s cheek. ‘I think it’s going to be tonight.’ He couldn’t keep his slight fear from Hiei.

‘I’m right here.’ Hiei said softly. ‘I’ll never leave your side.’

Kurama hugged Hiei a little tighter.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Hiei blinked in surprise when he felt a sharp pain from Kurama, then shame and disbelief. When Hiei looked at his mate, he could see the chair Kurama was sat on now dripping wet with a pool forming on the floor.

“I think my water just broke…” Kurama said to the room at large.

It was about ten o’clock at night and finally Kurama had wanted some tea, so all four of them had sat down at the kitchen table.

Hiei knew Shiori and Yukina realized what was coming. It was like an unspoken tension in their home.

“Ah, good so it’s starting then.” Yukina looked a little relived as she stood. “Hiei, why don’t you help Kurama get cleaned up, and change into his bath robe?”

Hiei was about to help Kurama up but when he touched his Mate the wave of fear was so sharp it left him gasping. Then he realized Kurama was shaking.

Shiori must have sensed it too as she went to Kurama’s other side. “It’s okay Shuichi, we are here.” She began rubbing his back. “We all love you.”

Kurama just stared off into the distance. “I’m scared…” he whispered, “Oh Inari.”

Not for the first time. Hiei felt a stab of guilt for what he was putting his Mate through. He also knew all he could do was be there for him, for what ever he needed.

“Come on.” He said, pulling Kurama gently from his chair. “Let’s go take a bath…”

“That would be great,” Yukina said softly. “I’m not sure how long this is going to take, but Kurama, you just do what feels natural for you, and I’ll be here, just let me know when the contractions get close together.”

“Contractions…” Kurama squeaked.

“Hiei?” Yukina asked.

Hiei knew she was asking him to keep her informed. He had already let the two women know Kurama appreciated them being there, but if they could keep their distance till necessary.

Hiei spared her a nod as he led Kurama off to the bathroom.

He sat Kurama down on the toilet seat as he began to fill the bath, pouring in some rose scented salts. Then he began to remove Kurama’s soiled clothes before picking him up, then lowering him into the bath.

Kurama sighed and relaxed as he was submerged. Then Hiei removed his own clothes and sat in behind Kurama, pulling him up against his chest, in-between his legs, then wrapping his arms around him.

Hiei kept the water comfortable warm as they rested in silence for a long time, every now and again Kurama would wince as the contractions started. But it was a good two hour before he sat up with a cry.

Hiei winced at the shadowed pain he felt, like his guts were crapping up, then fifteen minutes later there was another a little but more intense.

“Come on.” Hiei finally said getting out, then lifting Kurama out, once again putting him on the toilet seat as he grabbed a towel.

“We haven’t got anything for them…” Kurama whispered as Hiei was drying his legs.

“We didn’t want to jinx anything.” Hiei said as he moved to Kurama’s feet. “But don’t worry… I’m sure Yukina and Mother are sorting something out.”

Hiei had asked that any presents people bought for the kits were put into one of the storage buildings near the entrance, and not to say anything about it. Mostly he wasn’t sure how this would turn out; he didn’t have a track record of things ever going the way he wanted… if the worse happened he didn’t want his Mate reminded about what could have been.

He was sure Kurama knew, but he never said anything, much for the same reason.

Kurama growled as another contraction hit that left him gasping in pain as it passed.

“Inari that hurt…”

Hiei laid a kiss on Kurama’s knee before he stood and helped Kurama into his bath robe. “What do you want to do now?”

“I want it to be tomorrow.” Kurama smiled up at him as he reached his arms out to be picked up. “But right now… I need to check on our room…”

Hiei picked his Mate up and carried him through to their room, what was now Kurama’s nest.

Kurama touched the vine covered walls, then wanted to be put down so he could feel the moss beneath his feet, where he paced a little around the small space till another contraction took him to his knees.

When it passed Hiei moved him to the corner with all the sheets and pillows and laid him on his side. “Rest, I’ll go get Yukina… do you want you mother too?” he asked as he moved stay hair away from Kurama’s face.

Kurama nodded. “Be quick.”

Hiei laid a kiss on his cheek as he flitted into the kitchen.

Both women looked up expectantly. “They are coming almost ever five minutes.” He told her as she stopped folding some baby clothes.

Yukina blinked her eyes wide. “So soon? Right, I’ll boil some water now, everything else if ready to go, Hiei take those towels in. We will just be a moment.”

Hiei winced as he felt Kurama have another contraction. “That’s every 5 minutes now.”

Yukina took a deep breath. “Hiei we need that water now then. Can you boil it for me.”

Hiei looked at the pan on the cooker, and instantly it was boiling violently. “I’ll take that, you bring everything else.” He picked up the pan then was back with Kurama, he put the pan down at the bottom of the nest where he guessed Yukina would need it more, then he crawled up to sit by his Mate’s head.

Kurama moved to rest his head on Hiei’s lap.

“Yukina and your mother will be here soon.” Hiei promised him, as a few moments later the two women entered. Their arms full of clean towels and other odds and ends.

Shiori sat down next to Hiei and stroked her son’s hair as Yukina went to sort out her preparations.

“How are you feeling?” Shiori asked softly as Kurama reached up to take one of her hands.

“Tired.” He smiled back.

Then Yukina was moving to Kurama’s lower half as she laid a hand on his hip. “Kurama, I have to check and see what’s going on, can you bend your knees up for me?”

Hiei felt a slight panic go though Kurama before he did as she asked. Hiei watched as his sister lifted up Kurama’s bath robe then reached beneath.

He could tell she was being as gentle as possible, but Kurama still buried his face in Hiei’s knee. Then he cried out, pulling himself up Hiei till he was on his knees. His arms were around Hiei’s shoulders as he shivered in pain and shock.

“Things are a little bit more along that I thought.” Yukina said as she moved into a more direct position behind Kurama. “Kurama, I want you to have a few more contraction before you start pushing.”

“I don’t want a few more contractions.” Kurama growled out.

“I would rather you not injure yourself.” Yukina said in the most authoritative tone Hiei had ever heard her use. “Contractions will be a lot less painful than if you tear yourself, and your body needs that time so your little ones will come out more easily.”

“I was in labour for over twelve hours with you Shuichi.” Shiori said as she once again began stroking her son’s hair. “You’re strong, you can do this.”

Kurama tensed as another contraction swept through his body, and Hiei was afraid he was going to be chocked as Kurama tightened his hold.

Eventually Hiei just closed his eyes and held his Mate as the contractions were almost continues, Kurama was crying with the effort as he tried to breathe through the pain.

“Inari! I have to push!” Kurama screamed as he arched his back.

“Don’t push hard.” Yukina warned, “I can feel a head… move your knees a little more apart.”

Kurama growled as he did as she instructed.

“Shiori-san, I’m going to need your help.” Yukina said as she reached for some towels. “Okay, Kurama-san, a big push next time.”

Hiei felt Kurama’s fingers dig into his shoulders as he screamed out his next contraction.

“That’s it!” Yukina said delightedly, “Just a little… Ok the head is out!”

Kurama panted into Hiei’s shoulder for a moment before he cried out again. Then his cry’s were joined by another.

Hiei tried to see over his mates body as the women fussed about out of sight, both looked flushed and exited.

“How is it?…” Kurama panted out. “Let me see.” He begged.

“One moment.” Yukina said before she was passing Shiori a bundle. “There.”

Shiori moved up closer to them, then showed them both the small baby, still bloody, it’s little face scrunched up crying.

Hiei blinked at the child, not quite believing it was actually his and actually there.

Kurama moved one arm from around Hiei to reach out and touch its little face, then he moved the blanket aside. “A boy…” he said in awe as he tried to pull it a little closer, Shiori moved closer so he could lay a kiss on his forehead, then he began licking it.

“Let me clean him up first.” Shiori said in alarm as she tried to pull the baby away.

Hiei growled as he scooped his son out of her arms and held it for Kurama to carry on licking. The instinctive need in his Mate to clean the kit was so strong he almost needed to join in.

“Shiori-san, it’s okay.” Yukina said softly. “I imagine it’s his Kitsune instincts, no harm will come from it, it’s quite natural.”

Hiei watched in fascination as Kurama carried on cleaning their kit. He desperately wanted to hold his son, to check him out properly, to let it sink in this was actually real.

Then he felt Kurama pulling him into his own mind as thay shared the process, like his own tong was lapping over a little hand. But it stopped being so peaceful as a wave of pain shot up Kurama’s spine.

He was grateful when Shiori reached out and took their son as Kurama cried out; his contractions had only abated for a short time.

Hiei pulled out of his Mate’s mind with an apology as he once again held him tight, knowing he couldn’t be distracted with his Mate’s pain right now.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Hiei was growing more concerned as he watched the frown on his sister’s brow deepen.

Kurama was over exhausted and had collapsed to his side, no longer able to keep himself on his knees. Yukina had protested, but even she could feel how tired the Kitsune had become.

Kurama wasn’t even screaming with the contractions anymore, just sobbing through the pain piteously. Even his spiritual energy was wavering as he used all his reserves to get through this.

“Ah, finally.” Yukina breathed a sigh of relief. “Kurama you have to get back on your knees, I can see the head!”

“Cant.” Kurama sobbed out.

Hiei moved and began pulling Kurama up. “You can and you will.” He growled demandingly, relieved when Kurama did as he was told, till he was once again on his knees and quivering with the exertion.

“Push Kurama-san, it’s almost here.” Yukina ordered.

Hiei felt the exertion Kurama was putting into pushing, then Yukina was wrapping another kit up. “That’s it... You rest on your side again…”

Kurama let his body go limp as he collapsed onto his side. Then Yukina laid their second Kit into Kurama’s arms.

With shaking fingers Kurama once again moved the blanket aside.

“A girl.” Hiei breathed as he touched her head, already covered with a few wisps of dark red hair. She wasn’t crying, but making soft mewling noises. Once again Kurama leaned down as he began lapping at her bloodied face.

“Here.” Shiori moved closer, putting their son next to his sister, he had fallen asleep in the time it took to deliver his sister. “They are beautiful.” She said as she ran a damp cloth over Kurama’s brow.

Kurama looked up at his mother and smiled, then he was smiling up at Hiei.

“You did good,” Hiei grinned back. Then he was a little shocked when his Mate went limp as he passed out.

“Yukina!?”

“He’s just exhausted, don’t worry. I’ll heal him up while he sleeps, the plant you used had also come out with the placenta’s… I want to make sure he’s not damaged anything… But don’t worry. He feels fine, and so do your babies.” She grinned at him.

Hiei nodded as he looked down at the three beings that would now consume his world… and he couldn’t be any happier.

“Umm… and maybe you want to pick those up and keep them safe.” Yukina said softly, pointing to something by his knees.

Hiei looked down and saw three little gems rolling around on the mattress, At first he thought Kurama’s marriage necklace had broken, but as he picked them up, they had never had clasps on them, and Kurama’s necklace was still about his neck, undamaged.

“Uh…” Hiei grunted out as Yukina patted his hand and gave him a soft knowing smile.

 

+ + + + + +

 

Kurama woke slowly, taking stock of his surroundings before opening his eyes. He was bone tired, but for the first time in three months he felt normal.

Then with a gasp he sat up looking down at himself. His stomach was flat as it always had been, not a hint he had ever been pregnant at all. His spirit energy was also not being drained anymore.

For a moment he just sat there shocked. Wondering if it had all been some wonderful cruel dream.

Then he looked about the room, it was still covered with flowering vines.

“How do you feel?”

Kurama Jumped when he heard Hiei’s sleepy voice from his side, then Hiei’s hand one him.

“The kits?” he breathed out.

Hiei moved. “Still asleep, but it’s only been a few hours. You should sleep a little more.”

“I need to see them!” Kurama looked around, then saw two mosses baskets besides the bed.

Hiei prevented him from getting up with a hand on his shoulder, then reached out and picked up the closest basket and scooped out the small bundle within.

Kurama reached out and took it from his Mate, Looking down at the sleeping kit. “Our daughter.” Hiei purred as he picked up the other kit, holding it up so Kurama could look at it too. “And our son.”

Kurama grinned as he touched both their faces with shaking fingers. He could feel their mix of spirit and fire energy, but it was slight, not at all like they had been when they were inside him.

“Their energies settled down soon after they were born.” Hiei explained, sensing his thoughts. “Yukina says they feel much like Hanako and Haruko.”

“Half breeds?” Kurama asked as he leaned down to kiss his daughter. “That’s alright then.”

“Yukina also healed you up after you passed out. She said that the plant we used is gone, but the modifications it made to your insides are still there.” Hiei explained.

Kurama blinked at him, a mix of horror and hope swirled in his chest.

Hiei snorted in amusement. “Lets deal with these two first before you go finding another seed.”

Kurama was relived a little, he really didn’t want to go though all this again anytime soon. “I can do that.”

Hiei grinned back at him as he leaned closer and claimed his lips. “Thank you…” he whispered.

Kurama snuggled closer, “And you… I couldn’t have done this without you.”

Hiei rolled his eyes at him, “Obviously Fox… But what are we going to name them? I know you’ve been pondering it.”

Kurama smiled, “You don’t want to name one of them?”

Hiei snorted. “They are mine and they are healthy, that’s all I care about mostly… So what names do you have in mind?”

Kurama kissed his Mate on the cheek, then he looked down at his daughter, “Minako for her and Atago for him.”

“Fare enough.” Hiei said as he kissed his son, “Hello Atago, I hope you grow up to be as strong as your Papa and as pretty as your Mama.”

Kurama almost chocked as he laughed but tried to be outraged at the same time. “Mama?” he asked pointing at himself as Hiei leaned over to talk to his daughter.

“And Hello Minako, I hope you grow up to be as wonderful as your Mama.”

Kurama sighed. He knew he would never win this little disagreement, after all he had given up years ago correcting people he was a man. So he just looked down at his perfect little kits as they slept.

“We also need to get extra chains for these.” Hiei said softly, lifting Kurama’s marriage necklace. “I always wondered why I made three. I guess now we know.”

Kurama looked down at the three little red gems now in Hiei’s hand.

“One for you.” Hiei moved the almost black tear gem away from the others. “And two for the kits.” He said, indicating the other redder two.

“You should ware theirs till they are old enough.” Kurama felt a little regretful, he liked wearing them all.

Hiei snorted, “I’m not their mother,” Then he was picking something else up from underneath the futon mattress. “Then there are also these.”

Kurama blinked at the three tear gems, that looked similar to the two on his necklace, resting in Hiei’s palm. “Three…” He squeaked.

“There could be more I haven’t found yet.” Hiei confessed with a grin, “But I’m sure these are the only ones.”

Kurama folded Hiei’s hand around the gems, “You keep these then… For the time being let them just represent us.” He whispered implying himself and the kits.

Hiei smiles as he put the gems back under the mattress then pulled Kurama against his chest.

They stayed quiet for a little time, before Atago began to stir then he started crying in earnest, his eyes screwed tight as his little toothless mouth opened in a cry.

“What’s wrong?” Kurama asked. Now regretting he didn’t get any books about this kind of thing.

“He feels hungry.” Hiei said as he handed his son to Kurama, “I’ll go see if mothers awake, she said something about formula.”

“Formula?” Kurama asked bewildered.

Hiei gave him an evil grin as he looked pointedly at Kurama’s chest, “Unless you want to breast feed?”

Kurama looked at his own chest. “Err…”

Hiei chuckled as he pooled pillows up behind Kurama then pushed him back. “Rest, and I’ll sort it out.”

Kurama watched him go as Minako also woke up and started softly mewling too. “Shhh.” He told them softly as he rocked them a little. “Your… Papa… is going to sort everything out for us.” He smiled.

End of Chapter 2

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Continue to Chapter 3

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