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They are alone in Kurama’s house, one of the occasions in which Shiori has gone out for a longer period and they can stretch out of the seclusion of Kurama’s bedroom. Hiei doesn’t even complain much, anymore, just trails after Kurama as he moves around the house, lies on the floor while Kurama sits on the couch, hops up on the kitchen counter to watch him make dinner, rests under the tree he’s used so many times to check on him while he works on his garden.
One afternoon Hiei is spread out on the floor, his legs up on the couch where Kurama is sitting, scribbling something quietly on his notebook. The TV is playing in the background, the volume just loud enough to be distinct from background noise. Hiei is not necessarily watching, but his ears capture the words curiously, almost unconsciously, when the narrator starts to describe something that picks his interest.
In the captivating world of foxes, their monogamous mating habits reveal a fascinating side of their social structure.
Hiei doesn’t open his eyes, but his ears perk up and he holds his breath, listening.
Typically, foxes form lifelong bonds with a single mate, often returning to the same partner year after year.
He feels his cheeks flush, despite himself, and prays that Kurama isn’t listening (though he doesn’t work up the courage to check). Hiei doesn’t know why this simple information — which he isn’t even sure is true — affects him so.
He listens on.
During the breeding season, which occurs in winter, these foxes engage in elaborate courtship rituals, including vocalizations and playful interactions, to strengthen their bond.
Memories of him playing around with Kurama, running together and playfully fighting through the empty fields, their usual banter. Easy, warming, flirtatious.
Hiei flushes a deeper shade of red.
After a gestation period of about 53 days, the female gives birth to a litter of kits, which both parents help raise. This cooperative parenting not only ensures the survival of the young but also reinforces the strong pair bond that characterizes these remarkable animals…
“That is indeed remarkable, isn’t it,” Kurama interrupts, his voice quiet but piercing, surrounding Hiei’s ears in a way he feels like he’s sank into him.
Of course he was listening.
Hiei’s eyes open and he jolts up into a sitting position, seeming disconcerted. Kurama smiles at him, but doesn’t hide the smugness of it.
“Something the matter, Hiei?” he asks calmly.
“Tch,” Hiei scoffs, turning his face away from Kurama as much as he can. It’s still flushed. “This is a waste of time,” he says, standing up suddenly. “I’m out.” After a heartbeat, he calls, “You coming or what?”
Kurama smiles, now a fully formed smirk on his lips. He looks down at his notebook and writes down a final note before closing it and resting it neatly on the coffee table.
“I’ll be right with you,” he calls after Hiei and follows him.