Time Heals all Wounds

Wow, somehow with everything I’ve got going right now, I managed to write a decent sized chapter for a change. Thanks everyone for the help with naming Kurama’s father. I’m actually going to use two of the names you gave me, but I’ll leave the other for a surprise later on.

Well, enjoy the chapter and please remember to leave more of those wonderful reviews. I live for reviews, I write for reviews.

Chapter 5

Silver hair slithered along the water as Hiei pulled Kurama against him. If not for the strong arms holding him, Kurama was sure he might have drowned in the spring water as he panted in the aftermath of their lovemaking. “I will never know how I managed to survive all these years without you Hiei. I swear, every time we make love it’s better than the last.”

Hiei chuckled. “Fox, I’ve had decades to imagine the different ways I was going to make love to you. Now that you’re here, I intend to try every one.”

With a beautiful smile the Youko cuddled in his lover’s arms. “Personally, I hope you want to try that last way every time we bathe.”

After nipping lightly at his neck, Hiei grunted. “Hn, I just might. Now hurry up and wash, we have to get going if we’re going to get there before dark.”

Reluctantly, Kurama swam out into the pond and began washing. “What’s the hurry Hiei? It wouldn’t kill my father to wait an extra day or three for us.”

Rinsing quickly, Hiei rose naked from the water. Distracted by the fire demon’s muscular behind, Kurama almost didn’t hear his answer. “The sooner we take care of business there, the sooner I will mark you as mine forever.”

Kurama got chills at Hiei’s possessive statement. “I want that too Koi. Alright, let’s get going.”

Hiei was already half dressed when Kurama climbed from the pond. Pausing with his shirt in his hands, Hiei openly stared at Kurama’s naked body. “Damn you’re beautiful.”

With a mischievous grin Kurama stretched and ran his fingers through his hair. “Now don’t go getting any ideas Dragon. You said we had to go.”

Though he continued to stare, Kurama was disappointed when Hiei moaned but didn’t reach for him. “Mmm, so I did, but I can enjoy the view.”

When Kurama reached for his pants, Hiei frowned. “Kurama, what is that mark on your hip?”

Still naked, Kurama moved closer allowing Hiei a better look. “It’s known as the ‘Mark of the Inari’. Only direct descendants of Inari bare the mark. The purer the bloodline, the clearer the mark.”

Examining the mark on the front of Kurama’s hip, Hiei could clearly see it was a nine-tailed fox. “Hn. I once told your mother that your clan could tie it’s origins to Inari himself. I guess those old rumors were true. No wonder your father is proud of his bloodline. The clarity of this mark must mean your family’s line is almost pure.”

A thoughtful smile graced Kurama’s lips a moment as he thought of Shiori. “Yes it does. My father’s mark is much like mine. My mother’s though had faded tails. On my half sister’s you can just see the outline of the head because their mothers aren’t direct descendants.”

Hiei frowned. “How can that be? I thought you were all descendant from Inari.”

Kurama shook his head. “No, some are descendants of his siblings. Descendants of Inari are known as ‘celestial kitsune’, and descendants of his siblings are known as ‘wild kitsune’. Celestials draw their powers from the Heavens, Spirits, Winds and Darkness. Wild kitsune draw their powers from Fire, Earth, River, Ocean, Mountain, Forest, Thunder, Time, Sound.”

Understanding the new frown that crossed Hiei’s brow, Kurama continued. “I draw my strength from my father’s direct line to Inari and the spirits. I get my plant manipulating power however from my mother’s wild forest ancestors.”

Hiei nodded. “That would explain why you are so much more powerful than most Youko.”

Hearing the pride in his lover’s voice, Kurama smiled. When Hiei gave him a quick kiss then continued dressing, his smile faded. With a sigh, Kurama reached for his clothes. Ready or not, it was time for them to go.

Seeing Kurama’s reluctance, Hiei folded him in his arms for a better kiss. “I hope your room at this palace is secluded Fox, because I can’t promise I won’t make you squeal and scream tonight as I explore that gorgeous body of yours for other treasures you may have hidden from me.”

With the promise of new found pleasures to be explored, Kurama smiled as they headed for Youko territory.

XXXXX

Hiei wasn’t sure exactly where he’d expected Kurama to lead him, but what awaited them deep in the forest was definitely not what he’d envisioned. Suddenly a huge wall cut through the trees extending as far as the eye could see. The wall was so high it seemed to tower right to the top of the trees. Seeing the fire demon’s surprise, Kurama grinned. “Security is something we Youko take very seriously. Follow me carefully Koi, there are traps everywhere.”

Watching Kurama, Hiei knew the Youko was enjoying himself as he evaded trap after trap. By the time they came to what must be the gate, Kurama was grinning. “Damn, who ever my father has handling security these days is incredibly talented. They’ve taken my design to a whole new level.”

Hiei just grunted. Following Kurama, he saw two guards at a large gate. Paying little attention to his Youko companion, the senior of the two seemed very interested in him. “This is Youko territory. What business do you have here?”

Annoyed, Hiei grunted. “We are here to see the king.”

The guard gave Kurama a sweeping glance then returned his attention to Hiei. “I’m sure King Mashiro has more important business to attend to than entertaining outsiders.”

Hiei smirked as Kurama visibly bristled as he growled. “Outsiders? The king will have your hide for addressing visiting royalty so rudely. I’m sure Ambassador Kin must have informed the palace guard that King Hiei would be accompanying me home.”

Kurama’s tone was that of an incensed royal and the sudden recognition in both guard’s eyes was almost comical as they both snapped to attention. The senior guard that had been giving Hiei a hard time just a moment ago was suddenly bowing. “Please accept my apologies King Hiei. Your Highness, your arrival has been much anticipated. Officer Tsun will have your carriage brought around to take you to the palace immediately.”

Holding up a hand, Kurama shook his head. “That won’t be necessary Captain. Hiei and I would prefer to walk.”

Not allowing either guard a chance to argue, Kurama grabbed Hiei’s hand and led him through the gate. What awaited them on the other side left Hiei speechless. Before him was one of the most beautiful villages he’d ever seen. This wasn’t like most villages with their rows of buildings connected by dusty roads. No, the Youko village was a picturesque landscape of green grass with an abundance of colorful flowers and trees dotted with quaint cottages in various sizes.

Seeing Hiei’s expression, Kurama grinned. “Welcome to my homeland Hiei.”

Still holding his hand, Kurama excitedly led Hiei into the village. As Kurama pointed out landmarks or places that held special meaning to him, the Youko of the village watched them with interest. Before long they could be seen whispering and pointing at them. Caught up in showing Hiei his home, Kurama didn’t seem to notice the excitement that was building around them.

Before long someone finally came forward. “Well if it isn’t the wayward prince. So you’ve finally decided to come home.”

Turning to the male that had addressed him, Kurama smiled. “Ronin, old friend. It’s nice to see you. This is my partner Hiei, king of Alaric.”

Though Hiei was introduced as a king, Ronin simply inclined his head in a brief bow. “Ah yes Hiei, I’ve heard great tales of your skill as a warrior. Make sure the prince here gives you a tour of the weapons room at the palace. I think you’ll be impressed with the collection there.”

Kurama grinned. “Ronin is a master blacksmith and forged most of the swords and other weapons there.”

Intrigued, Hiei nodded. “I look forward to seeing some of your work then.”

After saying goodbye to Ronin, they proceeded through the village but were stopped many times by Kurama’s old friends as well as those anxious to greet and welcome home their prince. Though Hiei knew it must have taken them over an hour, he was surprised when the village suddenly faded away and before them was the palace. Looking back he realized it actually sat high in the center and was surrounded by the village. The reason he hadn’t seen it sooner is that the buildings were situated to act like a maze around the palace without any direct roads leading to it.

Seeing Hiei take it all in, Kurama smiled. “Pretty impressive isn’t it?”

There wasn’t a wall separating the palace from the village, but there were plants and shrubs that created a effective border around the palace. “Don’t let the lack of visible security fool you Hiei. Those plants may be beautiful, but they are some of the most deadly you’ll ever encounter. Even though many Youko have plant manipulating abilities, they are trained to respond to only a select few masters.”

Hiei smirked. “Of which I’m sure you are one Kurama.”

Kurama shrugged. “I used to be Hiei, but that was a long time ago. Well, let’s see what awaits us inside.”

As they passed, the guards lining the entrance stood at attention and saluted. Obviously word of their arrival had reached the palace. Entering the great hall they were greeted by a servant. “Welcome Your Highness, King Hiei. Let me take your bag. His Majesty awaits you in the library.”

Expecting Kurama to lead the way, Hiei was surprised when he didn’t move. Waiting, it was only a minute before Kurama took a deep breath and sighed. “We might as well get this over with.”

Outside what must be the library, Kurama paused again as a servant opened the door and announced them. As they finally entered the room a tall white Youko stood and moved from behind a desk. The golden eyes that greeted him reminded Hiei of Kurama’s eyes. “King Hiei, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Nodding in acknowledgement, Hiei responded. “As it is you King Mashiro. Just Hiei is fine though.”

The older Youko smiled. “Yes, it does seem a bit much to call each other king. Mashiro will be fine as well, especially since I understand you are close with my son.”

Both men turned to look at Kurama. Hiei was surprised at how vulnerable his fox looked as Mashiro addressed his son. “Musuko, I’ve missed you.”

Mashiro held out his arms as if he expected Kurama to rush into them. Instead, Kurama shook his head and whispered. “No… I can’t do this.”

Surprising them both, Kurama turned and ran through the open doors to the garden. Glancing at Mashiro, Hiei saw a defeated old man lowering his arms. Not knowing what to say, Hiei went after Kurama. From the edge of the terrace, Hiei looked out at the most spectacular garden he’d ever seen. Barely giving it a glance though, he flitted in the direction of Kurama’s energy.

At the deep in the heart of the garden was a tree. From the size of it, it must be centuries old. Within seconds, Hiei flitted midway up to sit on a branch beside Kurama. Neither spoke for several minutes as they looked down at a lovely pond and river filled with colored Koi fish. There were several pagodas in the garden and bridges that crossed the river as it wound it’s way through the garden.

When Kurama finally broke the silence, his voice held a bit of the vulnerability he’d shown in the library. “I’m so confused Hiei. I love my father and I’ve missed him so much. I wanted nothing more than to run into his arms just now. Yet I can’t forget that he ordered me to be killed for not obeying his wishes.”

Hiei thought about Kurama’s words a moment before speaking. “As an infant the Koorime threw me from their island to my death, yet when I had the opportunity to destroy them, I couldn’t do it. I had to decide if my desire for revenge was strong enough to destroy a bunch of tired old women. Though I have no love for the Koorime and will never forgive them, time healed me enough that I no longer needed revenge.”

Kurama sighed. “You’re saying I need to decide if I love my father enough to forgive him and trust him again. I don’t know if I can. I guess that’s what I’m here to find out.”

Hiei grunted. “Hn. You don’t have to worry about trusting him. I’ll make sure no one ever hurts you again.”

Smiling, Kurama leaned over to kiss him. “Thank you Dragon.”

For over an hour they sat in silence enjoying the beauty of the garden. Unfortunately their peace was eventually interrupted by Ambassador Kin who called up to them from the ground. “I’m sorry to disturb you Your Highness, but a small gathering has been planned in honor of your return and your presence is requested.”

With a disappointed sigh Kurama pulled way from Hiei’s side and hopped to the ground. A second later Hiei landed beside him. “Just what kind of ‘small gathering’ are we talking about?”

Kurama grinned at the annoyance in Hiei’s voice. “Unfortunately Hiei, a small gathering to my father is a large party to the rest of us. Ambassador, I’m afraid Hiei and I didn’t come prepared for a party. We will probably be sadly under dressed.”

Glancing at Kurama’s white outfit and Hiei’s black cloak, the Ambassador nodded. “As usual the King has planned for such an event. The palace tailor has quite a selection of appropriate attire ready for quick alterations. I will have him and his staff sent to your rooms immediately. King Hiei, if you will follow me, I will have someone show you to your suite.”

Feeling Hiei stiffen beside him, Kurama smiled. “That will not be necessary Kin. Hiei will be staying with me. Have the tailor sent to my apartment.”

Taking Hiei by the hand, Kurama left the Ambassador behind. Once inside, Kurama took them up the grand staircase then down several corridors. At the end of one of the corridors were a large set of double doors manned by two guards. As they approached, the guards snapped to attention. With a look of recognition, Kurama nodded to one of them. “Shae, it’s nice to see a familiar face. I didn’t ask, but I’m hoping this is still my apartment.”

The golden Youko nodded. “Of course Your Highness. His Majesty kept everything the way you left it. It’s been cleaned regularly and your pets have been cared for in anticipation of your eventual return.”

Thinking this an odd comment considering he was supposed to be dead, Kurama paused. Beside him, Hiei looked at the guard skeptically. “Should I be nervous?”

Shae cracked a smile. “I would be.”

Forgetting his previous doubt, Kurama chuckled. “Now Hiei, you know I’d never allow one of my pets to harm you.”

When Kurama moved forward, the other guard quickly opened the doors allowing him to enter. Cautiously, Hiei followed. Expecting a virtual jungle, Hiei was pleasantly surprised to find a normal sitting room with various plants appearing to decorate it. Hiei stood in silence as Kurama practically danced around the room touching and cooing to each plant. When each one had received his personal attention, he moved through a door across the room to the right.

Following him, Hiei saw him do the same with each plant in the huge bedroom. In response the plants appeared to lean or wave in his direction and several of them sprung into sudden blooms filling both rooms with a surprisingly pleasant aroma. “It seems they missed you Fox.”

Giving him a beautiful smile, Kurama nodded. “I missed them too Dragon. Several of these have been with me since I was a kit. Others are some of my first creations. Feel free to explore the apartment. You’ve seen the sitting room and bedroom. There is a bathroom through there. On the other side of the sitting room is my private library and my lab. Be careful if you go in there though. I don’t quite remember what I was working on when I left.”

Kicking off his boots, Hiei hopped on the bed. Laying back with his hands behind his head, Hiei closed his eyes. “Fox, I don’t plan on exploring anything but the back of my eyelids right now.”

With a laugh, Kurama crawled on the bed and leaned down to kiss him. “I seem to remember a promise you made to explore me when we got here Hiei.”

Just as Hiei reached for him there was a knock on the outer door. When Kurama sighed and would have moved away, Hiei held him firm. “Ignore them Kurama.”

Smiling, Kurama gave Hiei one more quick kiss before pulling away. “I wish I could Hiei, but with my father giving the orders, I’m sure they will be persistent.”

As if to prove his point, the next knock was even louder. Hiei remained where he was for several minutes as he heard Kurama talking to the tailor. Only when his fox called to him did Hiei finally move. Padding to the sitting room Hiei flopped in a large chair and watched as Kurama held up two outfits for his inspection. “You would look splendid in this dark blue one Hiei. You could even wear your katana on the belt. If you insist on black though, this one is very nice.”

Not minding either one, and not really caring, Hiei grunted. “It’s your party Kurama. You chose.”

Grinning at him, the black one was tossed aside and the blue one was held out to him. “Please try it on for me Hiei. Then Benny can see what alterations need to be made.”

Reluctantly taking the blue outfit, Hiei went to change. When he returned, Kurama was examining several other outfits he had laid out on the sofa. When the tailor, Benny, saw him, he nodded. “You were right about the blue Prince Yoko. It just electrifies his black hair. Let me see what needs altering.”

Before Benny could touch Hiei, Kurama warned. “Careful Benny. Hiei doesn’t like to be touched.”

Seeing the warning glare in Hiei’s eyes, Benny quickly and efficiently did his measurements. “Thank you King Hiei, you may take it off now.”

Before going to change, Hiei glanced at the clothes Kurama had laid out. “Fox! Not the dark ones. The lighter colors suit you better.”

Grinning happily, Kurama nodded. “Thank you Hiei. You heard him Benny. Put the red and purple back. Let me see the lavender, the blue and the gold.”

While Kurama finished with the tailor, Hiei took a nap. All too soon, Kurama was waking him with a kiss. “It’s time to get ready Dragon.”

Stretching, Hiei wrapped his arms around Kurama, pulling him close. “Hiei, we have to get ready.”

Sliding a hand down Kurama’s side to caress his hip, Hiei smirked. “If that bathroom is as big as the rest of this apartment, I’ll bet there’s room for us to bathe together. We have time for a bath, don’t we Fox?”

Knowing what bathing together would lead to, Kurama shivered. “Oh yes, we definitely need a bath. Besides, the guest of honor can’t be the first one at the party. We’ll be fashionably late and make a grand entrance.”

Pushing Kurama off the bed and towards the bathroom, Hiei growled. “There’s only one entrance I’m interested in right now.”

XXXXX

Two hours later, Hiei had Kurama sated and relaxed as they headed down stairs. When they neared the obvious noise of the party, Kurama began to hesitate. “Hiei, I know I said we’d make a grand entrance, but I think I’d rather slip in unnoticed.”

Before Kurama could lead Hiei around to the garden door a guard spotted them and loudly announced their arrival. “Presenting his Royal Highness Prince Yoko and King Hiei of Alaric.”

The large room went silent for a second before applause erupted. A moment later three silver vixen came rushing at Kurama. The first one to reach him, threw her arms around his neck. “Welcome home Yoyo, I missed you.”

Before she could release him, the next female pulled at her shoulder. “Let him go Saphi, it’s my turn.”

This one too gave him a big hug and used the nickname Gungin had used at Alaric. “Yoyo, you look fabulous.”

The third vixen stood behind the two commanding Kurama’s attention and glared. “Really Ruby, you act as young as Saphiro some times.”

With an arm around each of the first two, Kurama smirked at the third. “Come on Jade, didn’t you miss your big brother just a little?”

The one he called Jade pouted just a moment before giving in and rushing to him. “I’m supposed to be mad at you Yoyo. You’ve been gone so long.”

Reaching around Ruby, Kurama scratched behind her ear as he kissed her cheek. “I know Sis, I missed you too.”

When the three finally released him, Kurama smiled at Hiei. “Hiei I’d like you to meet my sisters, Jade, Ruby and Saphiro. Ladies, this is my best friend, my fighting partner and the love of my life, Hiei.”

Jade eyed the fire demon with appreciation. “Hmm, nice choice Big Brother. Too bad I’m mated. It must be exciting to have a lover that isn’t Youko.”

Hiei moved closer to Kurama as Ruby eyed him hungrily. “Even if Father would allow it, I’m not sure any of us would dare take a non Youko lover.”

Uncomfortably, Hiei stood there as Saphiro’s hand skimmed the muscle on his arm. “For this muscular specimen, I think I’ll dare when Yoyo’s done with him.”

All three vixen jumped when a deep voice behind them scolded. “Daughters! I believe you were taught better manners than that. Hiei, I hope you will excuse my daughters. It isn’t often we get visitors from the outside, so I’m afraid you’ve captured their attention.”

Not sure what to say, Hiei nodded in acknowledgement. Thankfully Kurama took his hand before he had to speak. “Come Hiei, there are several people I’d like you to meet.”

Over the next few hours Hiei was sure he’d met at least half the kingdom. Though there wasn’t a formal meal, there was plenty of food, wine and dancing. Now, as the hour grew late, Hiei held Kurama as they danced to a slow melody the band played. “Kurama if this is your father’s idea of a small gathering, I don’t even want to imagine what a big party would be like.”

With his face tucked contentedly into Hiei’s neck, Kurama chuckled. “This is mostly family, close friends and a few select political allies.”

Seeing Kurama’s father watching them, Hiei held him possessively. “I noticed that you managed to speak with just about every one here yet managed to avoid your father all night. Are you ever going to talk to him Kurama?”

Kurama sighed. “Since that is why we came, I guess I’ll have to eventually.”

As the music ended and they moved apart, glasses of champagne were suddenly being pressed into their hands. Looking up they saw the King stood on the stage where the band was and raised his hand to get everyone’s attention. “I’d like to thank you all for coming tonight. Yoko, I hope the warm welcome your family and friends have given you tells you how much you have been missed and how much we all love you.”

Raising his glass, the king toasted. “To my son Yoko, welcome home.”

Around the room glasses were raised in a unanimous toast. “To Prince Yoko!”

After a brief hesitation, Kurama raised his glass and nodded to his father. Glancing over at Hiei, they were both about to take a sip of their champagne when something caught Kurama’s attention. Sniffing his glass, he suddenly snatched Hiei’s glass before he could drink. “Follow me.”

A moment later they were on the terrace. “Kurama, what’s wrong?”

Kurama didn’t stop until they were down the steps to the garden and out of sight of the others. “Hiei, did you see who handed us the champagne?”

Confused, Hiei shook his head. “A Youko?”

After glaring at his very unhelpful answer, Kurama turned and poured the contents of both glasses into a nearby flower pot. A moment later the lovely flower began to wither and die. Looking at his lover, Hiei frowned. “Kurama, you don’t think your father had anything to do with this do you? The Jagon sensed nothing deceptive in anything he said just now.”

Kurama shrugged. “I don’t know what to think Hiei. From what I understand, Gunny’s orders all those years ago were to bring me home or kill me. Since I’m here like my father wants, I don’t understand why he or anyone else would try to poison me now.”

Hiei growled. “I hope it’s not your father Kurama. Whoever did this will die when I find them.”

After staring at him a moment, Kurama finally sighed. “I guess it’s time to talk with my father then.”