The Jewel Of My Heart

A/N: Thanks for the reviews, guys. They make me happy, happy. I hope you enjoy this latest chapter.

~!~

Inu Yasha and Kikyo returned to camp, only to find that Kagome and Youko were not there. Huffing, Inu Yasha began to whine about losing valuable time, but Kikyo stopped him.

“Kagome has found with the kitsune, what could not be found in your arms.” She said, her tone soft. “For the first time since being in this era, she has someone who wants her, not for the shards, but for the woman she is. Let them have this time. We never know when our time with a loved one will end, so let Kagome have the time that she so richly deserves. After all, you and I know just how precious time is with a loved one.”

Inu Yasha's shoulders drooped, but he nodded his consent. After all, if anyone knew how precious time was, he did. Fine, if this was what Kagome wanted, then he would step back and let her have this. It was the least he could do for the woman who had taught him that second chances did exist.

~!~

Golden eyes slowly opened and looked around. When he glanced down, he found Kagome asleep, her head resting in the crook of his neck, and a small smile on her lips.

As he watched her, he thought about how good it felt to have someone that he could hold in his arms, and who didn't see him just for his looks, or wealth. It was also nice to know that she didn't look down upon him for being a thief.

He couldn't help but wonder what his life would have been like had he been the one to meet Kagome, first. In some ways, he was jealous of the hanyou, but knew that the girl in his arms only saw the other male as a friend. She had told him that any feelings that she had felt were long gone, and she was ready to get on with her life.

That was good, because he was determined to be the male she needed for the rest of her life. He knew, even when he first saw her, that she was special, and he was no fool. He would not let this woman get away.

When she stirred in his arms, he looked down to see her eyelashes flutter and then her eyes opened and met his. He watched as a smile crossed her lips and heard her whisper, “Hi, there.”

“Hi, yourself.” He replied, the tips of his claws moving a stray piece of hair that had fallen in her eyes. “How do you feel?”

Kagome yawned, but then snuggled into his embrace, her face the picture of pure contentment. “I feel good. I have not felt like this in a very long time.” She said, a slight blush dusting her cheeks.

Youko smirked and then placed his chin on top of her head. After a few minutes of complete silence, she asked, “What time is it?”

“It is nearly morning.” He said, his eyes moving up to the sky, and taking note of how the dark sky was beginning to lighten.

Kagome lifted her head, her eyes shining. “I can't begin to tell you how happy I am that you brought me here.” She said, shyly. “I love this place.”

Youko's finger moved underneath her chin and tilted her face up to his. “For me, this is paradise. Not because of the beauty that surrounds us, but because you are here with me.” He murmured, and then allowed his lips to gently touch hers.

Kagome moaned when his mouth moved on hers, and Youko, being the sneaky thief that he was, took that moment to allow his tongue to slip between her lips and stroked at her tongue, teasing it before slipping out.

When he moved back, slightly, Kagome's hand came up and she touched her lips with her fingers. She had never been kissed, with the exception of her family, and was amazed at how good it felt.

Youko's youkai was growling. Both of them had caught the slight arousal that Kagome's body was now emitting, and he found that it was getting harder for him to control the beast within him. But, anything he was going to say, to tell her that they needed to get ready to return to her group, was lost when her lips touched his.

Kagome kissed him, and when he began to kiss her back, she felt as if her heart would burst with joy. So, this was what it felt like to be wanted and loved. When his tongue entered her mouth, for the second time, she touched her own tongue to his, and the kiss that they were currently sharing grew more heated, more passionate.

Youko could feel his fangs lengthening, along with his claws. His youkai was attempting to break loose and claim the female that they held in their arms, and he could not see a reason to stop him.

However, his ears picked up on a sound, and he hurriedly broke the kiss, and wound his long, silky tail around Kagome, shielding her away from the intruder's eyes.

“Mama, where are you?” Shippo asked, rubbing his eyes as he entered the area. Kagome felt her cheeks grow hot with embarrassment as Youko began to chuckle against her back.

Youko controlled himself, and then lifted his head. “We will be back to camp shortly, Shippo. Your mother and I needed some time to ourselves.” He patiently explained.

Shippo cocked his head to the side and took in the scene of his mother and Youko sitting together in the hot spring. Jumping onto a rock, he asked, “I thought that only mates bathed together, so does that mean that you are mates?”

Kagome groaned and hid her face in Youko's chest, while Youko growled a warning at the kit to obey him. Once Shippo got the message, he quickly hopped off of the rock and scampered away, running towards the camp site.

Youko began to laugh once the kit was gone and when Kagome glanced up at him, he said, “I remember doing that to my own parents. It annoyed them, as well.”

Kagome giggled, and allowed Youko to scoop her up in his arms and lower them into the warm water. She sighed happily as the male behind her began to run his hands over her back, and then kiss the side of her neck.

Youko closed his eyes in frustration. He really wanted to claim her, even though he knew that they were being waited on. But, he would need more time to perform the claiming act, mostly because when a kitsune mates, they commit themselves to an entire day of lovemaking, proving to their mate just how desired they are.

Kagome felt....disappointed. She didn't know why, but she felt as though she had been denied something. Something important.

Youko must have sensed her unease, because he wrapped his arms around her shoulders and quietly said, “We have the rest of our lives, Kagome. We do not need to rush into anything, and believe me when I say that what we have is worth waiting for.”

When he felt her nod, Youko kissed the soft skin on her neck, and then gave it a gentle, yet sensuous lick. Though he could not fully claim her, there was nothing against him covering her in his scent. This way, any other youkai that they came into contact with would recognize that she was taken, and by whom.

He smiled down at the young woman, and then told her to wait until he called for her. He quickly got out, and from Kagome's gasp, he knew that she liked what she saw. He dressed quickly and then told her that she could come out, and he would turn his back.


Kagome giggled a bit, but then climbed out of the hot spring and headed over to where her towel was. Drying off quickly, she threw on her clothing and then turned to find that Youko's back was still turned, his tails swaying gently back and forth.

A grin lit up her features and an idea formed in her mind. She could see Youko's ears twitching and turning at every sound, and she carefully walked up behind him, and when she couldn't take it any longer, she grabbed one of his tails and began to pet it.

Youko knew she was up to something, but he never imagined that she would pull this. When he felt her little hands upon his tail, he purred and closed his eyes. For him, having his tail petted was something that he enjoyed, but never allowed anyone to do, mostly because he felt that the only person who should touch him so familiarly was his mate, and since he didn't have one, he just went without.

But, now here was a woman who he wanted and she was giving him more than he could have ever asked for, and if she wanted to pet his tail, well....he'd just have to make sure that it was available whenever she wanted to pet it.

Kagome giggled when she heard the contented purr, and watched as he looked over his shoulder at her, his eyes hooded with something she couldn't quite put a name to. When he turned to face her, she allowed his tail to fall from her hands and watched as his head came slowly towards her own, his eyes soft, but determined.

Youko felt her soft lips as he brushed his own against her, but when the sound of the hanyou bellowing Kagome's name hit his ears, he growled and straightened up, his displeasure showing on his perfect features.

“That hanyou,” he growled, “Is going to get it.”

Blinking, Kagome finally understood what he was saying and sighed. Reaching for Youko's hand, she said, “We'd better get back, or else, Inu Yasha will come after us.”

Youko glared in the hanyou's direction when yet another impatient howl, followed by a sharp smack, was heard, and he just knew that they monk and slayer were up, as well.

When they reached the group, Youko calmly let go of Kagome's hand, and ignored the way Inu Yasha was pouting at Kagome. Instead, he reached over and grabbed one of the hanyou's ears, and calmly addressed the group.

“The hanyou and I need to have a talk, so go ahead and make yourselves something to eat. We will be back shortly.” He said, his beautiful eyes settling on Kagome, who was now holding the kit close to her heart.

When he received nods from everyone, including Kikyo, he yanked the hanyou towards the woods, and they were soon out of sight.

Kikyo noticed that everyone was staring at her, and she shrugged. “I warned him to be patient, and now, he has to face the consequences.” She said, her tone calm. “So, who's hungry?”

~!~

Youko ignored the painful yips and groans that came from Inu Yasha, and when they were far enough away, he finally let go and faced the hanyou, his face hard.

“I am fully aware that you do not like other males near Kagome, but let me make one thing very clear to you, and do be sure to listen carefully, because I detest repeating myself.” He said, his tone deceptively calm. “Kagome is not your responsibility, anymore. She is mine, and I intend of creating a family with her. Disturb us again, and I won't hesitate to feed you to my death tree.”

Inu Yasha knew that the kitsune was serious, but there was a part of him that couldn't let go. “If all you want Kagome for is shards, then I won't let you near her.” He said, his eyes locked with the kitsune's. “I've made some really bad mistakes with Kagome, but I have never failed in protecting her. I've chased away males who only want the shards, and her virginity, and if that is all you are after, then I'll chase you away, too.”

Youko regarded the younger male silently before replying. “I have no interest in the shards. Nor do I have any interest in the jewel, itself. My interest lies with the woman, and as you can clearly tell in her scent, I have not taken her virginity, so your concerns are not needed.” He replied.

Youko looked around the forest, and continued. “Kitsune are not like other youkai. We do not waste our time with a woman, unless we are planning on keeping her. However, the only exception to that, is when we go into our own heat, and most respectable kitsune will find some place to hide, in fear of taking an unwanted mate.” He said.

Snorting, Inu Yasha shook his head. “So, what you are telling me is that kitsune remain celibate for the rest of their lives?” He challenged.

“Not at all.” Youko replied, shaking his head. “It takes no time at all to fuck and send the woman away. However, when we find a mate that we will commit our lives to, we strive to ensure their pleasure, no matter how long it takes.”

“You could have anyone you want. Why in the hell are you choosing Kagome?” Inu Yasha demanded, wincing inwardly at how the question sounded. From the glare that the kitsune was sending his way, it was clear that he was on dangerous ground, but he had to be sure.

Youko took several minutes to answer, but he finally said, “I chose Kagome, because she is everything that I have ever wanted in a mate. The fact that she is human is of no importance. What matters to me is her intense loyalty, and devotion to those she loves. I value loyalty, but most importantly, I value family, and Kagome's devotion to the kit tells me that she will be no less devoted to me, and to any offspring we have, together.”

Inu Yasha shifted from one foot to another, knowing that the kitsune was correct about Kagome's loyalty and devotion. How many times had he hurt her and she still chose to stay by his side? But, he needed to ask one more question. One more question that would ease his mind, and heart.

“Do you love her?” He asked, staring at the kitsune.

“I would die for her.”

~!~

“I would die for her.” Youko said, his tone soft. “You'd better be prepared to do the same.”

Shuuichi nodded. He knew that if Youko said something, he meant it. Now, as he sat, listening to Youko reminisce about his time with Kagome, he began to wonder what exactly happened to separate Youko from his beloved mate.

“Don't.” Youko snapped, his soft voice quickly becoming harsh. “I will not relive that hellish experience, and up until now, I had buried the memory along with my Kagome. Let it drop, Shuuichi.”

“Alright.” Shuuichi agreed. “Let us talk about Kuronue, instead.”

“What about him?” Youko asked, his tone calming. “What would you like to know?”

Shuuichi was still very unclear about how the bat youkai fit into the picture, except that he, too, loved Kagome, but could not touch her. The entire situation sounded like a plot from one of his mother's romance novels.

“Did Kagome know that Kuronue was using her body?” He asked.

Youko was silent, but then said, “Not at first. As I once told you, I believe that Kuronue only has control over Kagome's body when she is asleep, and unaware. But, when she was awake, Kuronue was forced to watch, and I will admit, I pitied him when I discovered that he had to watch as I took the woman we both loved as my mate, knowing that he would never be able to. I can't imagine how he must have hurt.”

Shuuichi was about to reply, but the sound of someone calling his name caught his attention. Turning, he watched as a young boy ran towards him, waving. Shuuichi smiled when he realized that it was Kagome's brother, Souta.

Souta had told his mother about Shuuichi, and she giggled when Souta mentioned that he thought that the young man would be perfect for Kagome. So, his mother wanted to invite him to dinner. As a way of saying thank you for standing up for Souta, of course.

When he came to a stop, it took a few minutes for the boy to catch his breath, but then gave the older young man a grin.

“My mom wanted me to invite you to the shrine, for dinner. She wants to thank you for taking care of Hojo, for me and Kagome.” Souta said, quickly. “But, if you are busy, we understand.”

Shaking his head, and placing his hand on Souta's shoulder, “I would be more than happy to attend. However, I will have to leave to meet my friends, afterwards.” He explained.

Souta cocked his head. “Well, you could invite them, along. Mom would be thrilled to meet Yusuke Urameshi, seeing as he also helped.” He replied, a twinkle in his eyes.

Lifting an eyebrow, Shuuichi replied, “We wouldn't want to put your mother out with more guests.”

Waving his hand in the air, he dismissed Shuuichi's concern. “Mom always makes enough to feed at least three armies. Don't worry, there will be enough, I promise.” He said, smiling. What Souta didn't add was that his mom always made extra because Kagome took the leftovers with her to the feudal era to share with her friends.

When the older young man nodded, Souta told him that dinner would start around five, and that he'd better arrive hungry, along with his friends. He took off when his own friends call over to him, and Shuuichi smiled when he heard Souta's friends asking him if he was friends with the 'Shuuichi Minamino.'

Youko burst into laughter as they walked away, and happily said, “I finally get to meet my human mother-in-law. I can hardly wait.”

“You will have to wait, fox, for she doesn't know that her daughter is mated.” Hiei said, as he dropped down beside the red-head.

Shuuichi nodded. “We are going to have to be very careful, at least for now.” He agreed, and then smiled down at the smaller youkai, who suddenly was wary. “So, dinner starts at five, and be hungry.”

~!~

The group walked for what seemed several hours, until Youko called for everyone to stop. Inu Yasha made his way over to the kitsune and extended his own senses. Growling, he quickly got into a defensive stance and looked over at Kagome.

He was about to open his mouth and warn her, but then snapped it shut. It was no longer his job, and he had to let go. Let Youko deal with it as he saw fit. Personally, he hoped it involved a lot of pain.

When the small hurricane appeared, Kagome took in a deep breath, but then heard a soft voice whisper for her to relax. At first, she thought it was Youko, but the kitsune was a few feet away from her, and his attention was on the approaching whirlwind. It finally dawned on her that it was Kuronue, and she did her best to obey.

Taking in a deep breath, she clutched Shippo tighter, and waited for what she knew would eventually happen. Kouga was going to make a scene.

Sure enough, when the wolf youkai appeared before them, his eyes were narrowed and it was clear to everyone that he was not in the mood to be friendly. Their suspicions were confirmed when the wolf snapped, “I see that she is feeling better, so now she and I can speak.”

Kagome paled. She vaguely recalled Kuronue mentioning that Kouga had shown his face at the den, and tried to throw his weight around, but until now, she had not taken his words seriously. When the whispered, “I told you so,” came, she rolled her eyes and fought hard not to snort. Well, hell. She was trying to give him the benefit of doubt.

Kouga glared over at Inu Yasha, but was a bit shocked when the inu hanyou didn't say a word to him. However, it was the voice of another male that grabbed his attention.

“I believe that you and I have already had this discussion, wolf prince, and my answer stands.” Youko snapped, his tail swishing wildly. “You have no claim here, and it would be wise for you to forget about Kagome.”

Kouga's eyes narrowed dangerously. “Who in the fuck do you think you are, thief?” Kouga sneered. “I am the prince of wolves, and the only one suitable for a woman as powerful as Kagome.”

Lifting a silver eyebrow, Youko shrugged and replied, “You say thief as if its a bad thing. However, I don't care if you are the prince of the forest fairies. You are not allowed to court her, and Kagome is already taken.”

“Oh, and who has claimed the honor that is mine?” Kouga snarled, his own tail snapping frantically. “Tell me so that I can remove the insult to Kagome.”

Kagome opened her mouth to interject, but Shippo's tiny hand quickly stopped her when it came up to her mouth.

“Don't.” Shippo whispered, fearfully. “This is Youko's fight, and you can't butt into it. When Inu Yasha gave the responsibility for protecting you over to Youko, you became Youko's.”

Nodding, Kagome felt his hand leave her mouth, and she bit her lip. She watched as Kouga's gaze darted between her and Youko, but when the prince smirked, she just knew it wasn't friendly.

Before Youko or any of the others could blink, Kouga was gone. But, so was Kagome, and poor Shippo was on the ground, stunned. Youko's golden eyes began to bleed red, and before any of the others could approach him, Inu Yasha snapped, “No. He has to be the one to deal with Kouga.”

Sango glared at the hanyou and snapped, “Don't you care what happens to Kagome, Inu Yasha?”

“You know I do.” Inu Yasha fired back, as he watched Youko disappear into the forest. He shook his head and with apologetic eyes, he quietly said, “It's not my job, anymore, to protect her. That job belongs to the one who loves her. Youko will bring her back, I promise.”

~!~

Running through the woods, Kouga smirked as he tightened his grip on Kagome, who was struggling furiously. But, when she reached down and yanked hard on his tail, he stopped and threw her to the ground, a bit harder than he meant to, but he needed her to understand that he wasn't in the mood to coddle her.

Kagome felt a terrible pain when Kouga threw her down, and quickly grabbed her head. She tried to fight off the urge to pass out, and finally gave up when Kouga began to yell at her.

“Damn it, woman. You belong to me, and you know I have a legitimate claim on you.” Kouga snarled, as he watched as she slowly sat up.

Reaching down, he grabbed Kagome by her arms and hauled her to her feet, intent on throwing her back over his shoulder, but before he could lift her, Kagome's knee found its way into his groin, causing him to let go of her in favor of cradling his balls.

Kuronue was done. He had tried to run the wolf off, but now knew that it would take more than a few words to get through the wolf's thick skull that he was not wanted. So, when Kagome passed out, he took over and quickly prevented the wolf from taking them any further.

As Kouga groaned in pain, he suddenly felt Kagome grab his hair and yank him up. She forced him to stare into her eyes, except her eyes were colder than he had ever seen. In fact, her entire demeanor was colder, and dangerous. Perhaps this had not been a good idea.

“You know, I've tried to let you down easy.” Kuronue said, his tone even. “But, either you are too stupid to take the hint, or you are just that persistent. Either way, your foolishness stops now. Your claim is void, and according to youkai law, if the female or her guardian doesn't accept the claim, then there is no claim. Trust me when I say that Kagome doesn't accept your claim.”

His face lost all traces of color, but when he heard the last part of Kagome's statement, he lifted an eyebrow and asked, “What do you mean, 'Kagome doesn't accept your claim?' You are Kagome. Since when did you take speech lessons from that stuffed dog, Sesshomaru?”

Kuronue froze. Damn it, he slipped. Oh, well....he'd just have to roll with what he had and hope for the best.

“What I mean, is simply what I have said. I, Kagome, do not accept your claim, Kouga of the wolves.” Kuronue spat. “Go to that female wolf who wants you and know that I do not. I wouldn't sink that low.”

Standing to his full height, Kouga's eyes narrowed. “Ok, now I know you are not Kagome.” He said, his fangs showing. “No matter how angry she is with someone, she would never be so cruel. So, why don't you tell me who in the fuck you are, unless you are too scared and have to hide behind a human female.”

Kuronue glared over at the wolf, but then smirked. “All in due time, my mangy wolf.” He said. “However, you have more pressing matters, like the kitsune who is about to rip your fucking head off.”

Quickly sitting on the ground before the wolf, Kuronue schooled his face into an expression of pain, and grabbed Kagome's head. When Youko finally appeared, much to Kouga's shock, Kuronue gasped out, “Youko, help me.”

Kouga stepped away from Kagome, or who ever the hell it was in Kagome's body, and held up his hands. Looking straight at Youko, he said, “Before you attack, you need to know that you and I have both been fooled. This is not Kagome.”

Kuronue nearly snarled, but instead whimpered and brought Kagome's hand down, already knowing that there would be some blood on it. When Kouga threw Kagome down, he had failed to see the small rocks and because of the rocks, Kagome's scalp had been cut.

Knowing the thought of her injured would send the kitsune into a killing frenzy, Kuronue whispered, “Oh, gods. I'm bleeding.”

That did it for Youko. Snarling his outrage, he ran at the wolf, and quickly called upon his rose whip. The wolf knew that he was in a fight for his life the minute he saw the kitsune's eyes. Deciding that running away was better than dying, he used his famous speed and quickly got the hell out of there, knowing that the kitsune wouldn't pursue him in favor of caring for Kagome, or whoever that was.

As he ran, he vowed to rid Kagome of whatever was controlling her, and it only strengthened his belief that the inu hanyou's judgment was, at best, pathetic when he chose the kitsune to guard over Kagome. The male was completely unstable, in his opinion.

~!~

Youko's breathing took some time to calm, but he made sure to stand in front of Kagome, just in case the stupid wolf decided on another attack. He was a little pissed that the wolf took the coward's way out and ran, but it was only a matter of time before they met again. Next time, the wolf would not have a chance to run away.

Kuronue could feel Kagome stirring, and he quickly faded back. He grinned as he recalled the look on the wolf's face when he realized he had been set up. It was priceless. But, now he needed a rest and he was satisfied that the wolf knew not to fuck with him, ever again.

When he felt that he was in control, Youko knelt down beside Kagome, and looked her over. Kagome, who appeared to be in a daze, asked, “What happened? Where did Kouga go?”

The kitsune fought hard not to snarl at the wolf's name, but instead, he contented himself with lifting her palm to his mouth and licking away the blood that was present. When there were no further traces, he carefully looked Kagome over, shushing her when she tried to ask another question, and when he found her injury, he sighed when he realized that it was merely a flesh wound and wouldn't need any further attention, save for a cleaning.

“How do you feel, Kagome?” He asked, his tone soft. He grimaced when her eyes turned to him, her tears visible, but she took a deep breath and whispered, “My head hurts, and I still don't really know what happened after I yanked Kouga's tail.”

Lifting an eyebrow, Youko asked, “You yanked on his tail?” When she nodded, he burst into laughter and then shook his head. “You should have ripped the damn thing off.”

Upon seeing him smile, she gave a shaky smile of her own, and then threw her arms around his neck when he lifted her off the ground.

“Well, let's go back to the others. They are probably worried, and I want to have a better look at your wound before I clean it.” He murmured, as he began to walk. “As for your head hurting, I'll be able to fix you something that will help with that, too.”

Kagome smiled and allowed her head to rest upon his shoulder. Closing her eyes, she silently wished that she had met him a long time ago. It felt nice to have someone want to take care of her, for a change.

~!~

The four men walked up the shrine steps, and only stopped when Kuwabara proclaimed that he needed a rest. Sitting down by his friend, Yusuke looked up at Kurama, and said, “She must be something special for you to drag us along tonight.”

When Shuuichi nodded, Yusuke grinned. “I'm glad that I'm not going to be the only one with a girl.” He said, leaning back on his elbows. “At least someone will know what it feels like to be nagged and bothered all the time. You two are lucky that you don't have to worry about it.”

Kuwabara sat up straight and indignantly snapped, “I have a girl. I have my beautiful Yukina.”

Hiei snorted, but was stopped when Yusuke laughed. “Kuwabara, she doesn't even know that she is supposedly your girlfriend. Hell, I doubt she would even know what to do with you if you two were in a room, alone.” He smirked.

“You will cease this line of conversation, detective.” Hiei warned, a dangerous glint in his eye. When the detective blushed and nodded, he looked away, satisfied that his hidden message was well received.

Shuuichi was about to tell the men that they needed to go on up, but was stopped when Souta's voice rang out.

“Oh, good. You're here.” He called, grinning down at the four men. When they finally reached the top, he was quickly introduced to them.

Shuuichi moved to Souta's side and smiled. “It is nice to see you, again, Souta. Allow me to introduce you to my companions.” He said, and escorted the boy closer to his friends.

Souta's eyes went big when he came face-to-face with the great Urameshi. Shuuichi nearly burst out laughing, along with Youko, at the boy's expression, but quickly said, “Souta, this is Yusuke Urameshi.”

Yusuke lifted his eyebrow at the kid's adoring stare, but then remembered that this was the kid that Kurama had told him about.

“Yo.” Yusuke said, smiling down at the boy. When the boy shyly replied, Yusuke calmly asked, “So, Shuuichi said that the asshole we beat the shit out of is bothering your sister and decided to come after you. Do you know how to fight?”

When Souta shook his head no, Yusuke laughed. “Well, don't worry kid. I'll show you how.”

Shaking his head, Shuuichi sent a warning glare over to Yusuke, who shrugged, and then introduced the boy to Kuwabara.

Souta had to tilt his head all the way back to look at the taller red-head, but found that he seemed nice enough.

“If you want, I'll show you how to fight.” Kuwabara said, puffing out his chest. “I'm even better than Urameshi.”

Hiei snorted. “The only thing you are good at is failing.” He snapped, and then proceeded to ignore the man.

“Just what in the hell do you mean by that, Hiei, huh?” Kuwabara demanded. “I'm good at a lot of things.”

“Being good at being a fool isn't worth much.” Hiei snapped back, his eyes narrowing as he took in the taller man's purple face.

“Listen, shorty.” Kuwabara began to say, but was stopped when Shuuichi stepped between then and said to Souta, “And, last but not least, this is Hiei.”

Hiei took note of the boy sizing him up, and then watched as he grinned. It was clear to him that the boy was thrilled that he was just as short as he was.

Souta cleared his throat and said, “Hi, Hiei.”

“Hn.” Hiei said, and then glared at Yusuke when he said, “The translation to that is, It's nice to meet you, and we can be friends.”

Shuuichi was about to intervene when Hiei got into his attack stance, but everyone froze when a cheerful, feminine voice said, “I hope you boys are hungry. I've made quite a feast.”

Yusuke was about to step forward but was knocked down when Kuwabara rushed forward. The three remaining men, along with Souta, soon followed and were quickly seated at a large table filled with delicious-smelling food. Even Hiei seemed eager to eat. He had removed his outer coat.

Just as they were about to dig into the meal, an elderly man walked into the dining room. His eyes took in the four men, and then narrowed. His eyes darting from Shuuichi to Hiei, he quickly reached into his haori, and pulled out sutras.

“Youkai be gone from this holy place!” He shouted and promptly put a sutra on both Hiei and Shuuichi's foreheads.

“What in the hell is this?” Hiei demanded, though he sensed that the piece of paper was no threat to him or to his partner.

“Dad, knock it off.” Mrs. Higurashi cried, and quickly yanked the sutras off of her guests. “They are not youkai. Now, please sit down and behave yourself.”

Turning to the two men, she shook her head and quickly said, “I am so sorry. You must forgive my father. He is a bit....”

“Senile?” Hiei supplied, keeping a steady eye on the old man, who was pouting in his chair.

Mrs. Higurashi laughed and said, “Actually, I was going to say crazy, but that will work, too.”

“I am not crazy.” Gramps cried. “I know a youkai when I see it. They have beady, little eyes.”

Pointing over at Hiei, Gramps said, “Look at his eyes. They are as beady as beady can get.”

Yusuke and Kuwabara began to laugh and once he got a hold of himself, Kuwabara said, “He's got you there, shorty.”

Souta shook his head. “You said that youkai have beady eyes, but Shuuichi has large eyes, so why are you calling him a youkai?” He asked, genuinely curious.

Gramps glared over at Shuuichi, who was also waiting for an answer. Finally, the old man said, “There are youkai who can conceal their true nature. Why, I bet he is a kitsune underneath. They are the most tricky, and are the smooth operators of the youkai world.”

Youko burst out laughing and cheerfully said, “Guilty as charged.”

However, Shuuichi shook his head, and asked, “If we are youkai, as you claim, how did you know?”

Now the old man was in his element. Puffing out his chest, and ignoring his daughter, who groaned and placed her head in her hands, he proudly said, “I come from a long line of powerful monks and mikos. Why, my very own granddaughter, Kagome...”

“Ok, who wants some rice?” Mrs. Higurashi called out, and shot her father a vicious glare. “Let's eat up before it gets cold.”

Nearly two and a half hours later, the four men found themselves walking back down the shrine steps. Yusuke turned to Shuuichi and winked.

“Your girl has a cute backside.” He jeered, earning himself a glare from Shuuichi.

“I would appreciate it, as would Youko, if you refrain from mentioning Kagome's backside.” He said, his tone firm.

Shrugging, Yusuke said, “Well, her mother was the one who decided to pull out the photo albums. So, blame her for showing us those pictures of your girl when she was a baby.”

Rolling his eyes, he told the others that he would see them in the morning. Koenma had told them that he had a new assignment for them, and he wanted to be ready. However, Youko had surged forth and firmly told the prince that it had better not take long. After all, he had a mate to welcome home.

Now, as he made his way home, Shuuichi smiled as he recalled the photos of Kagome. He also knew that when his own mother met Kagome, she too, would pull out the photos of him, and he knew that there were a few photos in there of him completely naked as a small boy.

Ok, memo to himself. He needed to get those photos and burn them.

When he finally reached his apartment, he locked the door behind him and walked over to his table, where the yearbook sat open. He pulled off his shoes, socks, and shirt, before picking up the yearbook and smiling at Kagome's picture.

Youko's eyes quickly replaced Shuuichi's, and he softly said, “Goodnight, my sweetheart.” He placed the book back on the table and allowed Shuuichi to take back over. The young human stared down at Kagome and then smiled. “Goodnight, OUR sweetheart.”