Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ After the Fall ❯ Trials and Tribulations ( Chapter 22 )

Note: Koenma's age is a major difference from the show. He's listed at about 700 years old but for the purposes of my story, he is much, much older.

Chapter 22-- Trials and Tribulations

Koenma sat quietly in his office, his brown orbs focused intently upon the pacifier laying on the desk in front of him. The pacifier had been a lifelong addiction. For most of his 3,100 year existence, the toddler lord had relied on it to soothe his frayed nerves. And while in his child form, the pacifier didn't seem too out of place. But as an adult, it was totally unacceptable. Especially now that he had resolved to be more mature, more like a man. The kind of man his research assistant might approve of.

Ayame. Koenma thought with a soft smile, his gaze shifting off into the distance. Ever since the incident in Torandai, the two had been working closely together to find someway to solidify Botan and Kurama's case. Something to prevent not only their deaths, but the lives of countless others as well. But even with the seriousness of the situation, Koenma couldn't help but lose himself in her presence, absorb himself in her elegant features and drown in her dark blue eyes. He was in love with Ayame. Had been for some time. But he could never bring himself to say the words he knew he must. Still he wondered. What did she really feel for him? Did she know how he felt for her. Did she truly notice how he stared at her, as if his eyes alone could convey the truth of his heart.

Koenma's thoughts were interrupted by the sudden sound of Ayame's gentle voice calling out to him.

"Lord Koenma."

The young man turned to his left, his eyes lighting up in joy as he watched his research assistant approach his desk, a manilla folder clutched against her chest, contrasting with the fabric of her dark kimono. His gaze lifted to her face. Her beautiful face which spoke of undisguised triumph matched by her voice as she spoke. Once again he found himself staring at her, a contented sigh escaping his lips. She was so beautiful, so feminine, so ...

"Lord Koenma? Are you all right?" The ferry girl's soft voice repeated, drawing the spirit lord out of his thoughts.

The brown haired man, tore his gaze quickly away, his eyes darting downward to stare at his desk with vested interest.

"My lord?"

"Uh ... " Koenma started then stopped, wincing at how stupid he sounded. Spit it out already! He shouted at himself, fidgeting in his seat as he clasped his hands in front of him and drew in a breath. "It's nothing. Nothing at all." He replied after a few awkward seconds. Just that I want you for my wife that's all. He added mentally, ashamed once again at his cowardice.

Ayame looked at him, skepticism etched upon her delicate features. She had no idea what the toddler lord was thinking at the moment, but his behavior was another matter all together. She was not oblivious to his stares, nor to his attention. I know he has feelings for me, so why doesn't he tell me? She wondered then pushed the thought aside. Now was not the time to fantasize about her lord's affection. She had important news to tell him. I only hope he will do what must be done. She thought as she loosened her hold on the folder against her chest, lowering it down before setting it upon Koenma's desk.

The Reikai lord shifted his gaze over to the folder, his eyes curious as he reached out and pulled it towards him. "What do we have here?"

"The location of the Common Laws of Reikai book, sir." Ayame replied, her features brightening in triumph once more.

Koenma's eyes widened as he flipped the folder open and began to read the file's contents. "Have you shown this to Botan?" He asked.

When no response came, the brown haired man raised his head slowly, his features falling as he noticed the look of concern flashing around the dark haired ferry girl's face. "Ayame?"

Ayame lowered her gaze, her voice soft as she replied, "She wasn't in her room this morning my lord."

Koenma stared at his research assistant for a few seconds before turning his gaze away from her, his handsome features twisted in contemplation as he reached up to rub his chin. Come to think of it, Botan didn't show up for her schedule. He thought, his brow furrowed at his incompetence. He had been so consumed with his budding relationship with Ayame, the fact that Botan hadn't reported in for her morning shift hadn't registered yet.

Oh dear. Koenma thought with a shake of his head. Reaching down, he ripped open the center drawer to his desk and quickly withdrew the large black remote that operated his spirit viewer. Pointing at the massive screen, a flash of light erupted, the monitor coming to life, displaying the surrounding territory of the palace. He tapped the small blue button in the center of the remote, the screen instantly splitting into sixteen different sections, expanding the reach of his viewer. He scrutinized each one intently, his features brightening when a flash of pink caught his eye near the bottom of the screen. A few more taps of the button and the screen became one picture again, this time focused on the slender frame of the deity zooming over the river Styx towards the palace at lightning speed.

Koenma frowned. She's been in Ningenkai all this time? That meant she had spent the night with Kurama. The spirit lord had hoped she would wait a little while longer to see the kitsune again. After all, he had given her the weekend off. Then again, I couldn't really stop her, even if I tried. He thought with an inward sigh as he turned off the viewer and placed the remote back in his drawer before sliding it shut. Leaning back in his chair, Koenma rested his arms at his sides and waited for Botan to arrive.

A few minutes later the deity burst through Koenma's front office doors, an apologetic look gracing her countenance as she stopped a few feet from his desk. "I'm so sorry lord Koenma sir. I ..." She began in a rapid fire voice that died out as the spirit lord raised his hand in a gesture of silence. Botan watched with curious eyes as Koenma lowered his hand and began to speak.

"Let me guess. You went down into the human world to tell Kurama you had the weekend off?"

Botan nodded, not hesitating in her answer. "I did."

"Well that's perfectly alright Botan but why didn't you return to Reikai?"

The deity's features grew pensive, several seconds of silence lingering between them until she replied, "Kurama was injured."

Koenma frowned, not liking the fact that one of his detectives had been hurt. Is this the start of something worse, have the ones responsible for attacking the detectives a few months ago attacked again? He wondered. "Tell me what happened Botan." He commanded, though his features were sympathetic, the look of distress upon his head ferry girl's face almost more than he could bear.

Botan drew in a breath, letting it out slowly as she began to explain the situation in slow, pained words. As if she herself had suffered from the attack.

When she had finished, Koenma's gaze shifted away from her towards the open space on his right, his features distant and his thoughts troubled. What the hell is going on down there? He wondered. And what do Kurama's visions have to do with this unknown darkness that now hovers above my men?

Trouble.

Trouble for all realms.

And nobody knows who or what is behind it. He thought with a frown. "This is bad news indeed Botan. I'm beginning to regret my decision to give you the weekend off."

Botan's eyes widened in panic. " But ... Lord Koenma ..."

Koenma silenced her with a wave of his hand. "I'm not going to break my promise Botan. I said you could have the weekend off and so you shall. I'm just concerned about your safety that's all." He said hastily, though a small smile lingered upon his lips as he witnessed the joy flare on the deity's countenance. "Just be careful okay?"

Botan nodded emphatically. "I will Koenma sir!"

Koenma nodded back, his features growing serious and his tone businesslike, "Well then, with that settled, I have your list of souls to retrieve for the day." He said, reaching into the left side drawer of his desk. Whipping out a single sheet of paper, he brought his attention back on the deity and held it out for her to take.

Botan walked forward and gently removed it from her boss's outstretched hand. She studied it intently for a few seconds before turning around. "I'll get right on it sir." She said in a determined voice that matched her features as she quickly exited the room to begin her tasks for the day.

Koenma watched her leave, his heart heavy with concern. I know Kurama will protect her, but what if something happens and he's not around. What if ...

"My lord?"

He turned his attention away from the doors towards his left where Ayame still stood.

"Why didn't you tell Botan about the book sir?" She asked, a puzzled look reflected within her blue orbs as she stared down at her employer.

Koenma sighed, returning his attention back upon the front of his office. "I don't want to get her hopes up Ayame." He began, leaning back in his chair as he reached up and began to rub his forehead. "I don't know if I can get it without arousing suspicion. Still, I must try." He added, closing his eyes as he lowered his hand back to his side.

Ayame smiled, reaching out to pat his shoulder. "I know you will succeed my lord." She said softly before retracting her hand and exiting the room.

Koenma smiled, comforted by Ayame's touch. Still, his thoughts remained troubled. I know what I must do, but can I do it? Can I go to the elder palace in Torandai and steal the book from the very man who could quite possibly kill me without a second thought? He wondered as he sat in the deafening silence of his office, pondering what his next move should be.

*******

Kurama rushed along the paved walkway in the center of campus, his back pack brushing against the wool material of his navy pea coat, the book laden bag slamming endlessly into his spine. But the kitsune paid no mind. He was on a mission. Having already missed Macro Economics and Ancient Japanese History, he didn't want to end his day without attending the rest of his classes. So, after a quick change of clothing in his apartment, Kurama grabbed his bag and set off for Shokubutsugaku. About halfway to his destination, the fox spirit brought his left hand up to his face, peering down to look at his watch, frowning as he noticed the time. If I don't hurry, I'll miss Psych. Kurama thought, lowering his arm. He glanced quickly around him, making sure no one was paying attention before he picked up the pace, his image becoming a mere blur as he used his spiritual energy to race forward, zooming past a group of students chatting idly amongst themselves, the force of his speed slamming into them , startling them with it's intensity.

Kurama smiled, imaging the looks of confusion on their faces before his features grew calm, noticing how close he was to his destination. The kitsune slowed down, coming to a stop below the concrete steps that led up to the main entrance to the Arts and Sciences building. The largest and most complex building on campus, it was constructed mostly of brick and housed the majority of classes and labs for the entire student body.

The kitsune adjusted his back pack as he ambled up the steps and to the two glass doors. Reaching out, Kurama grabbed the metal handle and pulled open the left door, his tennis shoed feet walking silently across the polished floor the color of sand, noting with a smile how clean the hallways were. Unlike most universities, Shokubutsugaku had a full time cleaning staff that keep everything free of dust and dirt. Another feature that attracted the kitsune to the university. Kurama could handle many things, but working while surrounded by dirt and filth did not appeal to him.

Marching down the brightly lit corridor, the kitsune stopped before the elevator to his left, tapping the up button. The doors complied with his command, sliding open and allowing him entrance inside before closing once again. A tap of the button and a few seconds later, Kurama exited the elevator, walking down the third floor hallway and into a medium sized room the color of eggshells, a long blackboard stretched in the front of the nearly full classroom, which turned to watch the kitsune enter and waltz nonchalantly towards the back of the room. Sliding his back pack and then his coat off, Kurama lowered himself into his seat and let out a small sigh. I've made it. He thought triumphantly just as a tall, bulky man with long black hair tied back into a ponytail strolled to the large desk and dropped a black briefcase onto the dark oak stained surface. His dark brown eyes roamed across the audience, as if mentally checking off who was here and who wasn't. Satisfied by what he saw, the man lowered his gaze and opened his case, withdrawing a series of manilla folders before plopping them onto the podium to his left. "Good morning class. I hope you're all ready for your test on Alfred Adler's theories on Individual Psychology," He paused holding up a stuffed folder just as the room groaned, in both protest and dismay. "Because that's today's lesson." He added with an almost sadistic smile as he studied the frightened faces of his pupils, his brown eyes narrowing as he noticed the kitsune's rather calm exterior. "Well, Mr. Minamino," The professor addressed Kurama in an gruff tone, hoping to rattle the kitsune's focus. "You seem rather relaxed today."

Kurama sat back, no flicker of emotion in his eyes as he replied in an even tone. "I have no reason to be anxious professor Tsunada." He answered calmly, resting his hands before him on the table.

A few chuckles escaped into the stuffy atmosphere, aggravating Tsunada.

The professor glared at his students, silencing them with a cold look before returning his attention to Kurama. "We shall see Minamino. We shall see." He said with a sneer before rounding the desk and handing a stack of stapled tests for each of the seven long tables. The students handed them down, eyes widening in surprise as the noticed how difficult the questions were.

Kurama looked down at his test, smiling inwardly as he read off the first question.

What was Alfred Adler's first monograph entitled and what specific ideals did it cover?

This is going to be easier then I thought. He thought as he began to write in the answer in fluid movements and without pause.

Twenty minutes later, Kurama sat his pencil down and rose to his feet. Pushing back his chair, he made his way down to the open row at the far left of the room, rounding the front table as he stopped before Professor Tsunada's desk. Without a word, Kurama sat the test in front of the frowning man then headed back to his seat to retrieve his things, paying no attention to his classmates who stared in awe of him, watching the kitsune exit the room soundlessly.

Professor Tsunada glared at the red head's retreating form before looking down at the test and scooping it into his beefy hands. Let's see how many questions you got wrong Mr. Minamino. His mind sang menacingly as he began to correct the test. But with each page, his eyes only widened in disbelief and when he had finished, Tsunada let out a growl of frustration. Damn that boy! He snapped mentally. Nothing wrong! How could he do that?! Without knowing what I was planning to do?! Tsunada brought his gaze back up to the empty hallway, hatred brimming in his brown orbs. Hatred for one who could quite possibly ace his class, a feat no student had ever mastered in his two years of instruction. A statistic Tsunada didn't want to see overturned. You wait Minamino! He vowed mentally as he sloppily wrote 100% on the top part of the first page above Kurama's name. One of these days, you're going to be knocked off your high horse and when you do, I will be there to keep you in your place!

*******

Kurama let out a sigh as he exited the elevator on the first floor, shaking his head at how professor Tsunada was acting towards him. The kitsune had come across a few teachers that seemed to revel in causing misery to their students. But this was the first time he had met one in college, and although probably not the last, Kurama couldn't help but feel a little confused at Tsunada's hateful attitude. Why doesn't he like me? What did I do to upset him so? He wondered as he exited the building and walked down the steps onto the pathway below. The kitsune closed his eyes, letting out a sigh as he stuffed his hands into the pockets of his coat, ignoring the chill of the air swirling around him. It doesn't matter. He decided, opening his eyes once more as he pushed the questions to the back of his mind. He had more important things to worry about. Like where to take Botan to on their first date.

Although Kurama knew most of the human rituals of courtship, he had never had the privilege of going on a date. There had never been anyone he felt drawn enough to go through the pain of asking them out. Well, He thought with a small smile, reliving a memory of his childhood. There was Maya. But that had been long ago, when he had barely begun his human teenage years. And as for his life as a fox apparition ...

Kurama looked off into the distance, his features remaining placid even as his heart grew heavy, the memories of his past haunting him still. Dates were not part of the Makai culture. Matings were usually casual and not always invoked under the best of circumstances. But I do not live there anymore. He countered mentally, shaking his head to clear the dark thoughts that now ruled his mind. I am not the cold hearted thief I once was. He added, his face brightening as he thought of Botan, the sparkle of life returning to his once dismayed emerald eyes. I have found my soul mate. I am bound to her as she is to me. There is nothing to fear. He reassured himself as he began to walk forward, his eyes gazing upon a large circular building several stories tall, encased entirely in smoked glass. Still, he knew it would take some planning on his part. He wanted everything to be perfect. Wanted to give her a real night out on the town, enjoying the life so many Ningens took for granted. Several ideas began to form in his head as he continued onward, passing the dark green metallic sign posted in between the greenery that surrounded most of the multilevel building. Raised Kanji symbols shone as bright as a newly minted gold coin within the sign's borders, naming the building Kurama now entered as The Katsumonai Library.

Kurama strolled past the automatic sliding glass doors and into the spacious main floor, his feet moving purposefully across the dark brown carpeting towards the massive windows on the opposite side of the room, the mountains of Nikko National park in full view along with the dense forest and undergrowth that screamed to be admired. The kitsune smiled, happy to oblige as he removed his back pack and coat, laying them on the small oak table in front of him before sitting down on a cushioned chair that matched the color of the carpet below his feet, unaware someone was watching him.

Yoh watched with saddened blue eyes as the kitsune walked across the room, his thoughts troubled. He had been unable to think about little besides what he had learned in Reikai from that accursed book his father had given him. The book had robbed him of his innocence and his happiness, illuminating the truth behind the great war and the subsequent purging of people suspected to be of mixed blood. The young Reigen had been shocked and appalled to learn of the destruction of Jaisetsu village, the mass carnage of every man, woman and child. And all based on one man's hatred.

Kagone. Yoh thought, his feature tightening and his stomach unsettling at the thought of seeing that man again. How could someone kill the very people he was sworn to protect. The blond didn't understand. And the great war. A war Yoh had thought to be a noble cause was nothing more than a quest to find an artifact that would have caused untold suffering. He could not blame the man, labeled a traitor to his people, for killing the purveyors of such madness.

And Torandai, his adopted father, had signed the noble's death warrant, casting Reikai into a bloody war that lasted ten years. Why father? Why did you do such a thing? Yoh had left soon after finishing the book, too upset to face his father. The feeling of betrayal lingering within his heart and mind. It was too much to take in. Too much to accept. The fact that everything he had ever believed in was a lie, frightened him to the point of despair, his internal voice wailing in lamentation for the souls lost over something so foolish as a bloodline.

A sudden stabbing pain ripped through the blond man's hands causing him to jerk his head downward. His eyes widened in shock at the streaks of crimson fluid that leaked past his fingers, the tips imbedded into the soft flesh of his palm. A small gasp escaped the youth's throat which he quickly stifled even as he relaxed his fists, forcing the fingers to loosen their hold, more blood flowing from the wounds and onto his blue jeans. He could not heal himself without being discovered. But I can't go to class like this either. He thought as a concerned masculine voice reached his ears.

"Yoh, what happened?"

The blond tilted his head upright, his blue eyes meeting the troubled green ones of Kurama.

"Uh ... " Yoh began then stopped, trying to think of an excuse the red head would believe. "I ... I'm just upset over something Suuichi and I guess I overreacted a little." He said lamely, rising from his seat.

"Care to talk about it?" Kurama asked, studying Yoh with sympathetic eyes.

No! Yoh wanted to shout but held his tongue, shaking his head gently as he held his hands palm up. "I'll be fine Suuichi. I'll clean up and visit the health center before class starts." He said in a rather hasty voice before wandering off to the bathroom on the right side of the room.

Kurama frowned slightly watching the young man go. He had smelt the blood, rising instinctively out of his seat to see if he could be of assistance. He had been surprised to find Yoh slouched in his seat, the red fluid flowing around his hands in rivulets. The fear and dismay emanating from his new friend bothered him. What is wrong Yoh? Kurama wondered, sensing the young man's desire to be left alone. With a shake of his head, Kurama adjusted the back pack and walked back out into the open air, pondering what could have upset such a mild mannered man like Yoh. Perhaps he will tell me about it later? The kitsune thought as he headed off to his Botany Lab class.

"Hey Suuichi, wait up will ya!"

Kurama stopped, turning slowly to the side, his curious eyes falling upon Yoh who raced towards him, his features pale and tightened, his motions urgent as he quickly caught up to the kitsune, stopping a few feet away.

His breathing slightly labored, Yoh let out an apology. "Suuichi, I'm sorry if I dismissed your concern. It's just that ... " He began, his brow furrowing as he fought with his conscience. The Reigen wanted to tell his friend the truth. That the deity was in grave danger of being discovered by Kagone. That his father knew everything about the kitsune's relationship with one of pure lineage. But his promise to Torandai could not be broken. Yoh was a man of his word. Even if it caused him pain, he would not betray his father. But that doesn't mean I can't protect them! He countered determinedly. I will make sure the mistakes of the past don't repeat themselves. He owed it to the people slain in the name of Reikai, to his people to be different. To protect rather than destroy. And to redeem those who lived in the spirit realm.

Yoh was drawn out of his thoughts as Kurama spoke.

"You really should keep your arms elevated in front of you Yoh." The kitsune said in a lightly chiding tone. "Unless you want blood all over the ground."

Yoh shifted his gaze down his hands, frowning at the droplets of red that fell, splattering onto the pavement in red dots. "Oh man." He murmured, bending his forearms and holding them just above his waist, his blue back pack nearly sliding off the left shoulder of his equally blue squall jacket.

Kurama shook his head, reaching out to pull the bag up onto the young man's shoulder. "Come on." He said as he retracted his arm and waved Yoh forward, his voice like that of a concerned father. "Let's go get that looked at."

Yoh paused for a second, contemplating the kitsune's words before nodding and following the slightly taller man down the pathway.

Silence reigned between the two men as the continued on their way towards the health center in the administration building of Shokubutsugaku.

"Tell me something Yoh, " Kurama spoke softly, his tone even and his eyes straight ahead as he continued. "What would upset you so much that you injured yourself over it?"

Yoh frowned, his mind scrambling to come up with a plausible story. "I .. uh received a rather low grade on one of my tests Suuichi." He lied as calmly as he could before elaborating a little further. "I've never received below a 90% on any of my tests and I just didn't take it very well."

Kurama's features tightened. He knew Yoh was lying. Something else is bothering him. The kitsune thought as they turned left onto a new pathway that led to a rather large brick building several stories high. Something personal. But it is not my business to pry into his affairs. If he doesn't want to talk about it I will let the matter rest. For now. "I see." He said softly, his features becoming neutral once again only to darken as he heard and sensed a familar presence nearby.

"Well, well, well, the famous Suuichi Minamino parading the school grounds with one of his lackeys I see."

The kitsune and the Reigen stopped, turning around to find Ren and five men of various heights and frames dressed in jeans and white tennis shoes. The kanji symbols for Shokubutsugaku Kendo stitched in the color of snow within a dark circular patch on the left side of the black squall jackets they wore.

Kurama frowned. The malice and anger he sensed from the five men was equal to the disdain Ren blatantly felt towards him. So much so, the kitsune wondered whether they were feeding off the dark haired man's emotions or the other way around?

Ren's gaze shifted away from Kurama towards the smaller Yoh, who glared back at the dark haired man. "It seems your friend doesn't like me very much." He said with an evil smirk.

"That is because you're a conceited jerk." Yoh said in a defiant tone, his blue eyes never leaving the gray ones of Ren. He had only seen the dark haired one once, during the first day of tryouts, taking an immediate disliking towards the man. There was something not right about him. Something ... twisted and menacing. Kurama must have sensed this as well. Yoh thought as he studied Kurayami, not daring to break his gaze.

Ren merely shrugged, unaffected by Yoh's low opinion. "Perhaps. But I'm not the only one." He added with a smirk as his gray eyes shifted back towards Kurama. "Isn't that right Minamino?"

The kitsune's face remained expressionless, though his tone grew cold as he asked, "What is it you want Kurayami?"

"It's quite simple Suuichi." Ren began, crossing his arms, his handsome features turning serious as he glared coldly at the fox spirit. "I want a rematch. Today at 5:00 in the Kendo arena. Just you and me. No one else. No tricks. What do you say?"

Kurama shook his head. "No."

Ren quirked an eyebrow. "No?" He repeated. "Don't tell me you're afraid of a little contest Minamino."

"I'm afraid I have other plans Kurayami." Kurama replied, turning away from the dark haired man though his senses remained alert for any threat.

Yoh tore his gaze from Ren over to his friend, wondering if anything could rattle the kitsune's calm demeanor. It didn't take long for his question to be answered as Ren spoke.

"Going to see your little girlfriend Botan I suppose?" Kurayami said with a sneer.

Kurama stopped his movement, turning back slowly to face Ren once more. "What?" He whispered, his eyes narrowing at Ren's mention of Botan.

Ren was unfazed by Kurama's glare. He knew many things about the deity. He also knew it was the one thing that would break through the kitsune's emotional wall. And if I get him angry enough, he will accept my challenge and his fate will be sealed! The gray eyed man thought gleefully. "She's quite a looker Minamino, though I can't understand what she sees in such a wimp like you." He added, walking up to Kurama until they were a few inches apart. "Tell me something Minamino," He whispered, his features twisted in amusement as he leaned forward so only Kurama could hear. "Is she good in bed because she certainly has the body for it."

Without warning, a fist shot upwards, connecting under Ren's jaw with the force of a hurricane. The lean man's body shot upwards from the blow, blood spurting out from his mouth as he sailed through the air landing with a thud in front of his gang, who stared in shock at their leader lying prostrate on the ground.

Their gazes shifted over to Kurama whose fist was still clenched in front of him, his features cold and unforgiving as he lowered his arm back to his side and glared down at the unconscious Ren. Several seconds passed before he brought his gaze slowly upward, sensing the rise in anger emanating from the five men who began to advance upon the kitsune and the Reigen, murderous intent brimming within their dark orbs.

Without looking at Yoh, Kurama addressed the blond. "Go to the health center Yoh. I can handle this." He commanded, adopting a defensive stance as he eyed the men warily.

"But I want to stay and .. " Yoh said in protest only to be cut off by Kurama.

"Go now Yoh!" Kurama repeated in a tone that broke no arguement.

Disappointment and hurt flashed across the young man's features. He felt like a kid being scolded by his father. But Kurama, I want to help! He protested mentally but complied with Kurama's demand, turning around and running away from the ensuing fight towards the building still some distance away.

Kurama's features remained hardened. I'm sorry Yoh, but I don't want you to see this. He thought, his deadly gaze cast forward on the group of men who rushed him from different directions. The kitsune quickly ducked from the first man's attack, dropping to his palms onto the sidewalk as he swung his right leg forward, striking the tall man's calves. The attacker's knees buckled, his legs swept out from under him as his large frame flew up into the air before dropping like a sack of potatoes onto the ground, his blond haired head smacking into the cement with a resounding crack, knocking him out cold.

The kitsune blocked another attack as he rose to his feet, this time from behind, dodging a rather large fist that whizzed past his right ear, catching the man's thick wrist with his left hand at lightning speed while crooking his right arm towards his chest and below the attackers arm. In one fluid motion, Kurama used the man's momentum against him, lifting him up and over his shoulder before hurtling him several dozen feet forward, the dark haired assailant's bulky body skidding across the grassy patch of land to the side of the pathway.

The third and fourth man attacked at once, charging on each side of the motionless kitsune who bent backwards at the last second, both men's fists smacking into the other's jaw, knocking each other out as they fell onto the ground, blood dribbling from their partially opened lips.

A warning bell went off in Kurama's mind, instinct and years of training telling him to fall to the ground. The kitsune complied, catching his weight on the palms of his hands just as the sound of metal being swung met his finely attuned ears. Flipping instantly on his back, Kurama's eyes widened at the sight of a katana blade rocketing downwards, the owner smiling gleefully as he attempted to slice him in two. The red head dodged the first attack, rolling to his left then to his right as the assailant struck out again. Enough of this! Kurama cried inwardly as he brought his hands up and caught the blade, twisting and breaking the sword in two before flipping to his feet, tossing the sword tip to the side, to deliver quick blows to the man's neck and then his chin. The lean man rocketed backwards, his grip loosening on the ruined weapon, the hilt crashing onto the pavement with a clank as he traveled several feet before collapsing on the ground, out cold.

Kurama surveyed the men indifferently, his gold tinged eyes shifting over to the still unmoving form of Ren. Questions flared to life within the kitsune's mind. Questions that bothered him immensely. Just how did Ren know about Botan? And why does he want to fight me so badly? Could it be ... Kurama shook his head. No. Ren's spiritual energy was human, not demon. Still. I think it time I did some investigating on my own. He thought, his features twisting in surprise as he heard the approach of footsteps from some distance away. Turning around, the kitsune spied a small group of students heading along the same pathway the fallen men lay.

Kurama frowned. He didn't feel like standing around answering questions about what had happened. He still had class to attend to before meeting up with the others at Genkai's. Getting involved in a question and answer session would delay his objectives. I must not linger. He thought as he raised his energy, spiriting off the pathway and along the grass beyond the vision of humans towards the health center, leaving the unconscious men for the approaching students to deal with.

Unbeknownst to the kitsune, a pair of violet eyes watched with detached amusement as the red head tore off to catch up with his friend. Ailia stepped out of the forested area to the right of the pathway, her stride full of confidence with a touch of arrogance. The wind tugged at the long strands of raven hair that hung loosely around her slender neck and black leather jacket. A twisted smirk adorned her lush lips as she sent a quick telepathic command, rerouting the group of chattering students in a new direction away from her leader and his group of human cronies.

Within seconds, the dark haired woman's black booted feet hit the pavement as she made her way to Ren's side. Crouching down, she studied her leader's pale features, his breathing even though blood still flowed out the side of his mouth. Probably a broken tooth. She thought with a shake of her head, her features turning sardonic as she stretched out her right hand to roughly shake her leader's left shoulder.

Ren began to stir, a painful groan escaping his lips. His eyelids fluttered open, revealing a pair of rather angry gray orbs as the lean man bolted upright. He tried to speak, but all that came out was a sputtering of crimson fluid. Pursing his lips, Ren spit out a glob of blood, a tooth shooting out after, bouncing onto the ground before skidding to a stop a few feet away. He reached up to wipe the red tinted spittle around his lips, glaring down distastefully at the bloodied smear along his palm. He raised his head back up, his features twisted in anger as he surveyed his surroundings for some sign of Kurama. But the kitsune was nowhere to be found. Where the hell are you, you no good fox ...

"Well that was quite a performance you gave Ren."

The dark haired man snapped his head to the left where an amused Ailia now stood less than a foot away, her arms crossed against her chest, the tight leather jacket straining against her slender arms. Ren narrowed his eyes suspiciously, his tone biting as he barked, "What the hell are you doing here? You don't have classes today?"

Ailia smirked. "Perhaps because I knew what you were up to and decided to watch." She replied in mild exasperation. "Honestly Ren, can't a girl have a little fun on her day off?"

Ren rose to his feet, dusting off his black jeans and then his jacket, looking over his men with mild disdain even as he addressed his subordinate. "You watched the whole time?" He asked darkly, his eyes questioning as he returned his gaze to Ailia.

Ailia nodded.

"And did these humans even manage to lay a scratch on Kurama?"

Ailia snorted. "Of course not Ren. Did you really expect them to?" She asked back, her smirk widening as she added in a teasing tone. "Then again, you didn't fare any better did you?"

Ren clenched his fists in frustration. He had not anticipated the force of the blow Kurama had dealt to him. True he had maintained his human energy, but then so too had Kurama. Did that mean the kitsune's human form was more powerful than his own? Yes. He answered himself, a smile forming on his lips. This was good news indeed.

"Ren?" Ailia's voice cut into his thoughts.

"What is it?" The lean man asked irritably as he turned to face her once again.

"What was the point of attacking him today? You still haven't perfected the techniques? Surely you know this?"

"Of course I know that Ailia!" He snapped. "I wanted to test his strength as a human. I was comparing him to my own strength."

Ailia quirked an eyebrow. "And?"

Ren sighed, unclenching his fists. "He is stronger than I in this form." He begrudged the kitsune. "But not for long." He added, a new plan forming in his mind. One that would surely hurt Kurama more than any physical attack he could muster against him. And once I kill him and the others nothing will prevent me from taking what is rightfully mine. He vowed mentally as he began to walk the way he had come only to stop as Ailia spoke.

"Just what did you say to make Kurama strike you?"

Ren turned around, eyeing her threateningly. "That is none of your concern Ailia." He growled, pivoting back around.

"What about these men?"

There was a lapse of silence as the dark haired man began forward followed by a quick command which he shot over his shoulder. "Erase their memory of this. I don't need their blabbing about what happened." He answered, leaving Ailia the task of reviving and altering the five men's memories.

*******

"Hey Urameshi what time is it?" Kuwabara asked softly as he sat beside his dark haired friend upon the porch steps of Genkai's temple, his gray sweatshirt partially visible between the unzipped blue squall jacket he wore.

Yusuke glanced down at his left hand, pushing back the sleeve of his red warm up jacket to look at his watch. "It's only 4:30 Kuwabara." The spirit detective answered in slight annoyance as he dropped his hand back to the side, his brown orbs gazing idly at the courtyard before him. "Kurama and Hiei will be here soon so stop worrying about it okay?"

Kuwabara frowned. "I'm not worried about them showing up Urameshi. I'm just ..." He started then stopped, unsure how to describe the sudden feeling of dread that seemed to spread across every fiber of his being.

Yusuke turned to him, concern evident in his eyes as he asked, "What is it Kuwabara?"

The larger man let out a sigh. "I'm getting kind of this creepy vibe. Like we're being watched." He answered, turning to face his friend. "You know, like that time in Makai."

Yusuke's eyes narrowed as he shifted his gaze back to the courtyard. "Can you tell where it's coming from?" He asked, as he studied the area.

Kuwabara shook his head. Man, I wish Shizuru were here. She's better at this spirit awareness stuff than I am. He thought as he rose to his feet, straightening his blue jeaned legs. He took a step backwards onto the top floor of the porch, his black hiking boots scuffling along the wooden boards as he shifted his body from the left then the right.

Yusuke stood up to join his friend, his brown orbs never leaving the ground before him as he rested his hands against the pockets of his light blue jeans, his dark brown hiking boots making the same noises as he mimicked Kazuma's movement. "Anything?" He asked.

"No." Kuwabara replied. "I think I need to concentrate harder."

Yusuke jerked his head over in the direction of the orange haired man. "You mean you weren't concentrating before?!" He snapped. "What the hell is wrong with you?!"

"Get off my back will ya!" Kuwabara snapped back. "This isn't an exact science you know!"

"Hmph .." The spirit detective sounded in annoyance but drew his attention back out into the temple grounds, scouring the area through narrowed eyes.

Both men were so caught up in finding this elusive entity they had no idea someone was standing right behind them.

"BOO!"

"AAAAAAAHHHHHH!" Both men screamed, falling sideways onto the porch, revealing the petite frame of Genkai, staring outward with amused eyes.

"Too easy." The wizened female psychic said with a smirk.

Yusuke was the first to recover, jumping back to his feet a few seconds before Kuwabara did the same. "What the hell did you do that for grandma?!" The dark haired man barked, eyeing his teacher angrily.

"Simple dimwit," She began turning to face him. "To teach you a lesson."

"What kind of lesson Genkai?" Kuwabara asked as he rubbed his now sore arm.

"To always be aware of your surroundings." She answered, turning her gaze to the left at the sound of rushing footsteps, her brown orbs softening slightly at the sight of Yukina racing towards them.

"Is everyone all right? I just heard a noise and .. " She started then stopped as Kuwabara spoke in a pained voice.

"Oh Yukina my love, I think I hurt my arm." He began in a sickeningly sweet tone of voice that made Yusuke want to smack him upside the head. "Could you kiss it and make it better?"

Yukina blushed instantly, shifting her gaze over to her boyfriend as she smiled shyly. "Uh .. " She stammered, not used to showing her emotions towards the large man in front of anyone, even if they were her friends. "Let me take a look at it." She said softly, leading him past the smirking Genkai and the annoyed Yusuke.

"Wussy." Yusuke grumbled under his breath as Kuwabara passed, his features darkening as the larger man stuck his tongue out before smiling down upon his beloved as the two disappeared inside.

"He may be a wussy Yusuke," Genkai began, drawing the detective's attention down upon her. "But Kuwabara was correct. There is something out there." She added, her features becoming serious as she studied her land.

Yusuke followed her gaze. "Is it friend or foe?" He asked.

Genkai shook her head. "That I cannot say. But whoever it is has either left or has masked it's power because I no longer sense anything out of the ordinary."

"Well that's freaking great." Yusuke growled in annoyance. "Those freaks that watched us in Ningenkai and attacked us in Makai could be right beyond the temple walls, waiting to attack us."

Genkai shook her head. "If they truly wanted to attack you Yusuke, they would have done so already. I think their biding their time, waiting for us to lower our guard, gathering strength for a big offensive."

Yusuke frowned, looking down at his teacher. "And how do you know that?"

There was a pause before Genkai answered. "Because it is what I would do." She answered before turning and returning into the warmer confines of the temple.

Yusuke watched her go, his features turning dark as he pondered the female psychic's words. Big offensive huh? Wipe us out in one big blow or attack us individually? Which would it be? He wondered, his eyes shifting up to the still blue sky, the chill of late fall flooding the land around him. Yusuke shivered as he looked down at his watch once again, the time of 4:40 greeting his troubled eyes. Kurama, Hiei, where are you two? He asked mentally as he lowered his arm, turning to enter the temple where he would wait for his remaining friends to arrive.

******

Hiei adjusted the black cloak that surrounded his compact frame, flexing and unflexing his fists as he tested the new bindings he had wrapped around is forearms and hands. Yes. This will do nicely. He thought with a grim nod as he lowered his hands. The enchanted fibers of the cloth had continued to keep his black dragon subdued without much pain or effort. And although pain was nothing new to the fire Koorime, Hiei had grown weary of lending his power in the subduing process. Now I just have to test how quickly they disintegrate when the dragon is called. And this training session may just be the time to do it. He thought with a determined smile. The sound of footsteps drew his attention towards the open door of his room, his features softening slightly as his red orbs watched Mukuro enter, a playful smile upon her face as she stopped less than a foot away from him.

"Preparing to enter the human world again Hiei?"

Hiei nodded. "The detectives have agreed to help me in a little matter I need addressed."

"And what matter would that be?" Mukuro asked lightly, though her features were tinged in concern. She didn't want to see her mate hurt. The thought of him dying more than she could bear.

Hiei could hear the distress within her words. He knew what was within her heart. He had seen it just as she had seen into his soul. They understood and respected each other not only as mates but as friends. And I cannot hide the truth from her, even though I don't feel like talking about this, the fire apparition thought. "I need to get stronger Mukuro." He began. "I cannot allow your injuries to go unquestioned. To allow that is to fail in my role as your mate."

Mukuro smiled lovingly at him as she closed the distance between them. "I like it when your protective." She purred as she leaned down to kiss the surprised but receptive Hiei who returned her kiss with equal vigor before breaking reluctantly away a few seconds later.

"I have to go." He whispered, walking past his mate only to stop as Mukuro called out to him.

"Aren't you forgetting something?" She asked.

Hiei turned, wondering what she could mean. His eyes focused on Mukuro, following the pointing motion she was making with her right hand. He shifted his gaze to his right where his sword lay upon the small table, the katana still tucked within it's sheath. The fire demon frowned. "I don't need it for this journey." He said a little more forcefully than he intended before turning and leaving the room.

Mukuro watched him go, a puzzled look upon her countenance before returning her gaze to the weapon on the table. Hiei never left without his katana. He had claimed on many occasions that it was an extension of him, of his fighting spirit. So why did you leave it here love? She wondered. Curiosity got the better of her as she strolled over to the table and reached out to gently clasp the sheath. With a slow motion, Mukuro grabbed the hilt and withdrew the katana, her eyes widening as they fell upon the blade, the red tint along is edge unmistakable. It was blood. But from whom? She wondered, only to have her features darken as she drew in a breath, the scent familar to her. She knew who the blood belonged to. It was Kurama's. So that's why Hiei was so withdrawn last night. She thought, understanding flashing across her features. But why would he attack his best friend? She wondered as she gently slid the katana back into the sheath and placed upon the table once again. I will ask him when he returns later. She decided with a nod as she strolled across his room, closing the door behind her as she headed back to her assembly hall to check up on some of her men who had come back from their territory search for the thing or being who had attacked her.

********

Kurama stood beside Hiei in the training field listening intently to Genkai's instructions even as his mind traveled back to his confrontation with Ren. The comment the gray eyed man had made about Botan's prowess in bed had angered the kitsune more than it should have. True, he didn't want anyone to speak so disrespectfully about his beloved but did he really have to strike the man? And to be provoked so easily into a fight merely because of a few words was not like him. Not even Youko would have retaliated over something so silly. So why did I react so readily? He wondered briefly only to come to the sudden realization that he didn't want another man talking about his chosen mate that way. Botan was his and his alone. No other man had the right to touch her, let alone speak of her in such terms. Oh boy. Kurama thought as he closed his eyes in mild distress. I'm becoming way too possessive.

"Kurama are you feeling ill?" Genkai's concerned voice called out to him.

The kitsune eyelids snapped open, his attention drawn back to the petite woman who walked over to him. "I'm fine Genkai." He said softly, his features a mask of reserve as he watched the psychic nod, turning around to re address the rest of the detectives. Kurama brought his attention back to the forefront, focusing on each and every word Genkai now spoke.

"Each of you have unique abilities that compliment each other. And it is these abilities that have enabled you to defeat the enemies of the human and spirit world. However," She paused, placing her hands behind her back like a staff sergeant assessing her troops. "You still haven't reached your full potential. And unless you practice harder and focus all your energy on this field, you may never reach your limit because you will no longer be alive. That is how serious and deadly this field is. Once the power of this field in enacted, an invisible barrier will spring up on all sides. The only way to get out is to destroy the beasts or beings you conjure up with your imagination. And remember, they will have the same power as the conjurer. And with such a challenge you are certainly to be in for one hell of a long training session. My advice is that you fight as a team, rather than as individuals. But do as you wish." She added stopping mid pace to turn to face the detectives.

"So this is it gentlemen. Any last changes of heart?" She asked, eyeing each man slowly, noting with satisfaction the determined looks on their faces. "Very well." She said, shifting her gaze to Yusuke. "Yusuke step forward please." Genkai commanded in a gruff tone that made the detective glare at her.

The dark haired man quickly took off his jacket, revealing a white turtleneck. He tossed the jacket over to Kuwabara who caught it while glaring at the back of his best friend's head. Yusuke made his way to Genkai's side as the psychic began her instructions.

"Now Yusuke listen very carefully to what I'm about to tell you." She paused, making sure the young man was paying attention before continuing. "You must power up fully to unleash the field's power. Once this is done, the field will react with the thoughts of all four of you, any image they deem a challenge will appear and you will all have to defeat it. Do you understand?"

Yusuke nodded. "I got it." He replied, bringing his forearms up in front of him. He crooked them back, a reddish glow beginning to erupt around him only to stop as Genkai shouted at him.

"Yusuke stop!"

"What?!" The dark haired man snapped, twisting his head sideways to glare at his master.

"I haven't left the field yet dimwit!"

Yusuke almost fell over in exasperation. "Move your ass grandma! I don't want to be at this all day!"

Genkai scowled at the detective, anger brimming in her voice as she shouted back, "If you survive this, I'm going to smack you so hard upside the head you'll be sent back to elementary school!"

"Can she really do that?" Kuwabara murmured, drawing Yusuke's attention back on him.

"Of course not stupid! She's speaking figuratively!"

"Shut up Urameshi!" Kuwabara shouted back, clenching his fists. "Don't make me come over there and pop you one!"

"In your dreams carrot top!"

Oh great, two idiots conversing. We could be here all day Kurama. Hiei sent telepathically to the kitsune who smiled.

Yes. Kurama sent back. Then again, their antics always amuse me. He added as he watched the two men berate each other a little more before settling down once again.

"Moron." Yusuke grumbled as he closed his eyes and began to concentrate once again.

"Jerk." Kuwabara mumbled, crossing his arms as he waited for Urameshi to complete his power up.

Yusuke ignored his friend's parting shot, instead he focused inwardly, drawing out the power from the Youkai half of his being. The reddish glow erupted once again, the detective's features tightened as a series of dark tattoo like images sprouted along the slightly tanned flesh of his face. The air grew heavy and dark, energy radiating in waves around the dark haired man, ripping clumps of grass as it smacked into the remaining men. Kurama and Hiei enacted energy barriers to keep from being swept away from the immense force of power colliding against them. Kuwabara huddled behind Kurama, a small whimper escaping his throat as he watched his friend complete his power up.

"Be not afraid Kuwabara." Kurama said in a comforting tone though his emerald eyes remained fixed on the dark haired detective in front of him. "Yusuke is nearly finished."

"I'm not afraid Kurama! I'm freaked out!" The orange haired man murmured back, his eyes darkening as he heard Hiei snicker. "Clamp it shorty!"

"Wimp." Hiei said in disdain, his smirk widening as Kuwabara became agitated.

"I'll show you wimp you little ... " He began only to stop as the energy waves ceased. Curious Kuwabara drug his eyes forward, gaping at the power he felt coming from his best friend. Man, so this is a high S class warrior's chi huh? The tall man thought with a smile of awe. Very impressive.

Yusuke relaxed his arms, dropping them to the side. The ningen/youkai opened his eyes, the orbs narrowing, becoming colder, deadly as he turned to address his comrades. "Make ready." He said in a dark tone. "They come."

Kuwabara frowned. "Urameshi, what the hell are you talking ... " His voice started then fell silent as a sudden force slammed into his gut, lifting him off his feet. Blood erupted from the orange haired man's open lips as he flew backwards, landing with a crunching thud onto the ground several feet away.

"Kuwabara!" Kurama shouted, rushing forward to help the human only to be swept aside by an invisible force that sent him sailing through the air before slamming him into the ground, the impact shaking the grass laden earth.

Hiei's eyes widened in shock at the ferocity of the attack. What the hell ... "Kurama!" The fire demon cried only to gasp as he sensed a dark presence behind him. Hiei jumped quickly to the side, his speed and agility saving his head from being smashed in by a rather large fist.

*******

Yusuke meanwhile had been kept occupied by not one, but two beings that sprang from his imagination. Toguro, his first true opponent and Sensui, the man who had killed him and unleashed the truth of his origins. And both with the same freaking power level as me. Yusuke smiled. Sounds like a challenge. The spirit detective's fists began to glow, aflame in a soft blue light as he rushed forward, letting out a war cry as he met the two men head on, striking both at the same time, fist to abdomen. The larger men flew backwards, their shoes making skid marks in the soft ground as they came to a stop a dozen feet away. The men straightened their frames, smiles upon their lips as they disappeared from view. Yusuke features darkened. Where did they go? He wondered, only to let out a gasp as he sensed an incoming blast of energy behind him. Whirling around, Yusuke's eyes widened, recognizing his own attack. Diving to the left, he narrowly avoided being obliterated by the spirit gun unleashed by Sensui. Okay. The detective thought as he scrambled to his feet. Enough fooling around. Yusuke made ready to rush forward only to suddenly be lifted off his feet as a muscular pair of arms wrapped around him, constricting around him like a serpent, driving the air out of his lungs, making breathing next to impossible. Toguro! Yusuke's mind cried as he struggled to free himself before consciousness left him.

*******

Kuwabara stirred slowly as he lay sprawled on the ground, his eyes fluttering open as he bolted upright. "Alright!" He growled angrily, "Who just sucker punched me?!"

The sound of a fist striking into a palm drew the tall man's attention to his right, his eyes widening in surprise as he saw a leaner version of Yusuke standing before him. Clad in his green uniform, "Yusuke" stood patiently still, a crooked smile upon his lips as he spoke. "Ready to get your ass kicked Kuwabara?" The being asked, advancing slowly towards Kazuma who snorted.

Figures this crazy field would give me a duplicate of Urameshi to fight with. He thought as he rose to his feet. "Bring it on Urameshi!" He taunted, smiling excitedly as the being rushed forward, the two men beginning an old fashioned fist fight, exchanging blows at a rapid rate, blood flying in their wake.

*******

Kurama rose shakily to his feet, gold tinged eyes staring at the darkened atmosphere. Whatever had attacked him just now was similar to the person who had been plaguing his dreams. So the field reads our minds and taps into the most dangerous things we could think of. He reasoned, a sense of anger brimming within his heart and soul. A smile lit up the kitsune's face. A smile of pain. Then I will return the favor. He thought answering the call of Youko who begged to be released. A black mist quickly enveloped the red head, shrouding him from view. Black bolts of lightning erupted within the thick cloud of energy.

Within seconds Kurama's weaker human body metamorphosed into his stronger demon counterpart. The mist and crackles of energy dissipated, revealing a rather perturbed Youko. Eyes closed, Youko's fox ears twitched, his senses searching out that which had attacked him. It didn't take long. There! His mind cried. The kitsune's eyelids snapped open, revealing glowing golden orbs that narrowed as he reached up and quickly withdrew a rose from the back of his long silver hair. Feeding energy into the flower, the plant obeyed, lengthening into a twelve foot lash. With lightning fast reflexes, Youko leaped upward, avoiding a blast of telekinetic energy from the being shrouded in darkness, swinging the rose whip in a series of downward slashes before flipping in mid air and landing on his feet in a crouched down position, the satisfying sound of pain and subsequent collapse of his attacker meeting his sensitive ears.

******

Hiei turned around to face the creature who had attacked him, his features cold and deadly as his red orbs clashed with the dark ones of an imposing man clothed in Shinobi black. The man in black quickly reached into his gi, withdrawing a series of four metal shuriken which he unleashed in rapid succession. Hiei dodged them easily enough, vaulting high in the air. Instinctively he reached for his katana only to suddenly remember he had neglected to bring it along. Dammit! He growled mentally in frustration. Switching tactics, the fire demon's fists began to glow in bright red, flames flickering around his skin as he rocketed downward towards his opponent who watched his descent, withdrawing another series of stars, which he flung upward.

Hiei's eyes widened as he opened his palms, a fire shield erupting before him, the shuriken bouncing harmlessly off the flame barrier or so the fire apparition thought, as a stabbing pain shot up his leg. Gritting his teeth, Hiei's fire wall evaporated, his compact frame slamming into the ground with a resounding crash. Struggling, the fire demon pushed himself up to his feet, turning to face the shinobi only to collapse onto his right knee. His features twisted in mild agony as he looked down to find one of the shuriken lodged deeply within the quad muscles of his upper right thigh.

The shinobi advanced upon the smaller man who struggled to stand, more stars at the ready.

Frowning at his pathetic efforts, the fire demon gave up standing and instead reached down and clasped the star, ripping it outward, blood spurting from the motion.

The shinobi gave a barking laugh, pulling his right and left hands to his sides, ready to release another volley of deadly sharpened metal. There was no way he was going to miss.

But Hiei had other plans. In the instant he removed the star, he threw it outward and up as hard and as fast as he could, the shuriken zooming beyond the sight of men and into the thick throat of the shinobi.

A painful gasp escaped from the large being's throat. He dropped his stars, reaching up to pull the offending item out only to suddenly disappear in a flame of red as Hiei unleashed a volley of fireballs that set the large man aflame. Within seconds, the man fell over, dead. The fire demon had won.

*****

Kuwabara, bruised and battered, nonetheless achieved his victory although his aching body begged to differ as walked past the prone form of his sparring partner who lay sprawled out on the ground, his uniform tattered, his face bloodied almost beyond recognition. The orange haired man was unaffected, he knew it was just a figment of his imagination. As if reading his thoughts, the being disappeared, swallowed up by the field.

The same thing happened to the shinobi and the telepath.

The three men had won their matches. But what about ..

"Yusuke!" The three men cried simultaneously, their eyes focused on the field of combat before them.

The spirit detective was still in the grip of "Toguro" while "Sensui" was preparing to fire another spirit gun.

"What the hell?!" Hiei yelled. Two fighters at the same level as the detective? What were you thinking Yusuke! The fire demon thought with a shake of his head as he tried once again to rise to his feet.

Youko noticed this and barked over to Kuwabara who was closer. "Kuwabara go help Hiei! I'll help Yusuke!" The fox demon shouted, rushing forward before the tall man could protest.

Yusuke's vision grew dark as his struggle began to weaken. A light seemed to flare beyond his closing eyelids and out of instinct he keep them shut, knowing what was coming. Stupid Yusuke! Too damn arrogant to just take one guy at a time! Keiko's going to be pissed for sure! At the thought of his girlfriend, the detective's eyes snapped open, his struggle renewed even as he saw the blast of energy rocketing towards him. "Let ... me GO!" He shouted. To his surprise, the arms wrapped around him complied, freeing the detective who leaped out of the way of the rocketing energy. He turned to the side, his eyes widening as a flash of silver and white passed his view. A half second later, his gaze shifted to Toguro, who was pinned to his spot, stalks of green spread upward from the ground, lashing tightly around his wrist, anchoring him in place. The blast hit the large man full bore, annihilating him on the spot.

Yusuke rose to his feet, surveying the area for the rest of his friends. He saw Kuwabara and Hiei walking towards him. But where was Kurama?

"Right behind you Yusuke." Youko's deep voice said softly.

The detective whirled around, looking up into the golden orbs of the fox demon. "Man Kurama you sure are tall in your demon form aren't you?"

Youko gave him a toothy grin, his gaze suddenly shifting away from the detective towards the advancing Sensui. "There is still one more left Yusuke." He said with a growl.

Yusuke nodded. "Let me handle this." He said, his features growing determined as he walked away from the fox apparition into the pathway of Sensui. He brought his right hand forward, clasping his wrist with his left hand. "Let's end this."

Sensui smirked and mimicked the detective's motions. The two men charged up their respective attacks unleashing them in a simultaneous volley. They collided midway with each other, a massive explosion rocketing the area as one spirit attack enveloped the other, hitting their opponent and swallowing them whole. The ground shook for miles around, blasting through the barrier that had been erected to keep the power at bay, smacking into the trees that lined the field's perimeter, loosening leaves and snapping branches in it's wake.

When the dust settled and the smoke cleared, Yusuke lay upon the ground, his tattoos gone, his body back to normal. His breathing was labored and his clothing was tattered from the ensuing projectiles that rocketed up from the ground. His dazed brown eyes stared up into the now clear sky, the barrier lifted by the defeat of the final conjured warrior. "I guess .. we won .. Heh .. heh." He said in-between breaths, a smirk twitching upon his lips as the untouched faces of his comrades stared down at him. All three shaking their heads.

"Well that was certainly an interesting attack." Kurama said, his now emerald eyes twinkling slightly as he shifted his gaze over to Hiei who smirked.

"Yes. The detective saves the day again. How heroic." The fire demon said as he crossed his arms and straightened his frame, wincing slightly at the pain that throbbed along his right leg.

Kurama frowned. "Let me take a look at that." He said walking over to Hiei's side.

The fire demon frowned and waved off the kitsune. "It's not that deep Kurama. I'll be fine."

Kurama looked at his friend in concern but didn't press the issue. "Then Yukina will take care of it for you." He said in a gentle but firm tone that made Hiei scowl.

The fire demon kept his peace, knowing that if Kurama didn't help then he would make sure Yukina did. Stupid fox! He growled inwardly only to smirk as Kurama replied telepathically.

I heard that Hiei!

The kitsune and the fire demon headed forward for a few paces before stopping to wait for the remaining members of their team.

Kuwabara remained standing by Yusuke's side, helping the detective rise to his feet. "Boy Urameshi you sure know how to end things with a bang." He said with a snicker, laughing at his own joke.

Yusuke rolled his eyes, not amused. "You're such an idiot Kuwabara." He said with a growl as he began dusting off his clothing.

"I'm not the one who had two people attack me at the same time did I?" Kuwabara retorted smugly, waiting for his friend to make some kind of verbal comeback.

Instead Yusuke sighed, too tired to argue. "Alright carrot top you win okay." He said softly as he walked past his friend to retrieve his red jacket some distance away. "Let's get out of this creepy field before something else happens."

Kuwabara nodded in agreement, following Yusuke's lead as they joined up with Hiei and Kurama, walking back towards Genkai's for some much needed healing.

They were unaware that someone had been watching them the whole time. The same one who had stalked them in Makai. And the one Kuwabara and Genkai had sensed briefly some time ago. The shinobi had never suspected the detectives would begin preparations for the upcoming battle. A battle they weren't even supposed to know about. But that old woman seems to have figured it out. The dark eyed man thought with a scowl. He had eavesdropped on their conversation. None of them aware just how close he really was. They seemed to be naive and foolish. Yet Tahomen remained leery. I must inform Ren of this. He thought darkly as he rose from his perch aloft an enormous conifer tree, disappearing with the wind as it swept by.

Okay guys, don't kill me. I know there weren't any K/B moments in this chapter and I apologize. This is kind of a transition as I will soon begin the last parts of this story. I do promise however that the date between the deity and the kitsune will take place in the next installment. At least I didn't leave it at a cliffhanger right? Anyway, I hope you can find it in your hearts to forgive me since this installment contained more action than romance. Sessha is most sorry for this. I'll make it up next chapter I promise. Next time: Kurama takes Botan to Tokyo for a night on the town only to have a run in with someone the kitsune least expected. And Kurama does something that makes Botan's heart fill with joy. So lads and lasses, leave me a review. Let me know if I need to work harder. I feel like I'm losing my grip on this story. And remember don't be afraid to let me know how you feel in a review. I promise I won't bite!