Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ After the Fall ❯ The Time Between ( Chapter 14 )

Quiet.

Quiet and peaceful.

Just the way Kurama hoped the forest would be.

He walked leisurely among the thickened brush, waving his hand in lazy swipes, the plant life giving way to his silent commands, allowing him passage through to a more open area of maple woodland, where the warm rays of the sun filtered through the massive boughs that hung far above the kitsune's head.

Kurama closed his eyes as a strong breeze began to swirl around him, tugging at the sleeves of his black wind breaker, caressing his face, as heated and passionate as a lover. And all at once her felt her presence, heard her words in his mind, the wind a messenger of her hope, her love. He opened his eyes as the wind died down, releasing it's hold of his crimson locks. With a graceful sprint, the kitsune dashed forward through the forest, heedless to all but the need to see her, to hold her and show her the truth of his heart.

When at last he cleared the wood, Kurama's eyes beheld the sight he had prayed for. Lips drawn into a tender smile, he walked slowly forward, marveling at the feminine form that sat upon a cliff top overlooking a valley of dense woodland as far as the eye could see. Another rush of wind past by, only this one was gentle, playing with the silken blue strands of the deity who spoke in a soft voice that made the kitsune's smile widen.

"I thought you'd never come."

Kurama took his place beside her, his emerald eyes gazing reverently upon his beloved's face. He frowned slightly as he noticed the way she cradled her legs against her chest, her lithe frame shivering. She's cold. He thought as he reached up and removed his jacket, leaning to the side as he laid it gently upon her shoulders. He began to shift back to his original spot when Botan clasped his arms and pulled him towards her, holding him tightly against her as if he might disappear. "I don't want to lose you Kurama." She whispered as she rested her chin upon his shoulder, her tone fearful and saddened.

Kurama's heart broke at the sound of her voice. So full of grief and loneliness. So much like the pain he had felt at their separation. He needed to comfort her. Needed to hold her as if to reassure himself that she too would not abandon him. "I'm not going anywhere Botan. I promise." He whispered, settling down right beside her, allowing her to retain her hold on him while he pulled away slightly, reaching up with his left hand to brush away the strands of hair that hung haphazardly in front of her pained features.

Botan retracted her right arm, raising it upward until her hand rested upon the left side of his face.

Emerald met amethyst and held.

Kurama found himself reacting to the love and need that flared within the deity's eyes. His heart began to beat wildly, an uncontrollable pounding that grew stronger with each passing second as he slowly, almost imperceptibly began to lean forward, his eyes never leaving hers as he watched, waiting for her silent consent.

Botan tilted her head back slightly, her lips slightly parted as she waited for him to kiss her.

The kitsune's lips were almost upon hers when the ground began to shake violently beneath them.

Botan gasped in fear, closing her eyes as her hold shifted back around his torso. "What's going on?!" She cried as Kurama rose quickly to his feet, lifting Botan up with him.

"I don't know!" The kitsune replied over the thunderous roar of earth shifting below his feet. His eyes darted about in confusion only to narrow as he felt a powerful surge of energy coming from above. Tilting his head back, he watched as the sky darkened and the air grew heavy. He was coming. Coming for her. Coming to take her away again. Not this time! Kurama growled ferociously in his mind as he swept a surprised Botan off her feet. "Hang on Botan!" He shouted, a small smile gracing his lips as the deity wrapped her arms around his neck and nestled her head against his shoulder before he raced forward, skillfully dodging the falling trees that crashed down around him.

Kurama quickened his pace, feeling the breath of his pursuer hot upon his neck, invisible arms reaching out, attempting to grab the deity and snatch her from his grip. But the kitsune would not relent his hold. Not now. Not ever. She was bonded to him and he to her. He couldn't live without her and would fight to his dying breath to keep Botan at his side.

Just then a ear splitting roar erupted around them, so horrifying loud and close it sounded as if the sky itself had broken in two, unleashing the fury of some nameless power that could not be evaded. But evade Kurama did. Moving all the faster, his image a mere blur as he streaked through the ruined landscape with Botan cradled in his arms, the kitsune managed to outpace the jagged rocks that suddenly and continually shot upward from the ground, trying to impale his swiftly moving form.

Just when he thought he had outpaced his hunter, the kitsune's retreat came to a skidding halt as he suddenly found himself upon a cliff top overlooking a open valley. Kurama's eyes narrowed dangerously as the sound of Koenma's voice cried out from the pitch black sky.

"YOU MUST RELEASE HER KURAMA!"

The red haired man's grip tightened upon Botan as he shouted back, "I REFUSE KOENMA! SHE IS MY SOUL MATE! MY HEART! MY LIFE!"

But Koenma wouldn't take no for an answer as he continued, "THEY ARE COMING KURAMA! IF YOU DON'T LET HER GO YOU BOTH WILL DIE!"

The kitsune frowned. "WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT? WHO IS COMING?!"

Before the toddler lord could answer, Kurama cried out in pain and fear as an invisible force grabbed hold of his arms and pried them away from Botan while simultaneously removing Botan's hold upon his neck.

"Kurama!" She cried in anguish and pain, as she was pulled forcibly away from him.

"Botan!" Kurama shouted in distress, his emerald eyes full of disbelief and grief as he watched the deity's body begin to float upward and beyond the safety of the cliff top out into the open air where the valley lay below. A sense of helplessness filled him as he felt the hold upon his outstretched arms tighten, clamping down with such force, he was brought to his knees.

Arms clasped tightly to her sides, Botan gasped, her features paling, her voice becoming a scream of pain as the force began to bind around her like a serpent, crushing her slowly within it's grasp. Botan's voice was lost to the pain that spread throughout her body as she fought futilely for breath. She tilted her head downward, eyes locked with Kurama's, her features pleading for his help.

When Kurama saw the fear and horror reflected within her amethyst pools, a fire of rage ignited within the kitsune's heart and he began to thrash violently against the force that bounded his arms. "RELEASE ME!" He roared as his body began to glow an eerie shade of green, his power increasing to a level beyond anything he had experienced before.

But Kurama didn't care what limits he broke. He had to get to Botan. He had to save her. It's too late for that now silly human. An unknown voice whispered into his mind, one that caused the hair to stand up on the back of his neck as the kitsune briefly ceased his struggle.

Who are you?

The voice did not answer. Instead it said, Now witness what happens to those that disobey the law of Reikai.

Kurama's gaze remained focused on Botan, a cry of horror and despair escaping from his throat as the life was squeezed out of her, blood erupting from her mouth, the once vibrant eyes closing as if welcoming death before the force released it's hold and Botan went spiraling downward towards the valley below.

"BOTAN!" Kurama cried, bolting upright in his bed, his hair and body drenched in sweat, his muscles tightened in fatigue. His heart pounded painfully in his chest, the erratic beat filling his ears as his breathing remained labored. His confused eyes darted about in the darkness, unsure of his surroundings. Unsure whether he was still dreaming or indeed awake. After a few tense seconds, the disorientation dissipated and Kurama realized where he was. The kitsune's gaze shifted then remained focused on the windows in front of him where darkness still laid claim to the sky. With great effort, Kurama managed to calm his heart, slowing his breathing down until it returned to normal. But his mind was still troubled. Turning his head to the right, his gaze fell upon his digital alarm clock, the numbers 5:43 glowing a steady shade of green, the only light in the otherwise darkened room. With a heavy sigh, Kurama collapsed back onto his pillow, his eyes focused upon the ceiling above. It was just a nightmare. He thought, relief flooding through him.

Or was it?

Kurama pondered the reasons why he would have dreamt about her death. Was it merely a manifestation of his concern, his fear for her safety or was there something more to it? Some dark omen of the future. Was that what his dreams were telling him? That if he didn't let her go, she would die?

"Botan." Kurama murmured sadly, shuddering in pain as the image of her broken body replayed itself over and over again in his mind. And though he had felt fear unlike any before, the truth was he couldn't let her go. Botan was the air he breathed, the heart he wanted to claim, the reason he lived. To be separated from her was unthinkable. And yet... And yet he knew he must maintain his distance. Knew he had to remain patient. Love would find a way. It had to. He had to trust in Botan. Trust that she would return to him. Someday.

Tossing the covers off his body, Kurama swung his blue pajama clad legs to the side, rising slowly to his feet, the toned muscles of his bare torso contracting and relaxing as he stretched his arms high above, trying to relieve the soreness that pervaded his body. Lowering his arms a few seconds later, Kurama let out a sigh, unsure what to do. It was too early to go visit Yusuke and ask for the communicator but he couldn't sleep. He needed a little fresh air. But first he had to wash up. Marching purposefully over to his closet, the kitsune slid the door open, quickly chose a pair of light blue jeans, black socks and a white fisherman's sweater before closing the door and heading into his bathroom to clean up.

About twenty minutes later, Kurama pulled out of his driveway, hair slightly damp from his shower, the crimson strands sticking to the collar of his navy pea coat as he roared off towards downtown, to a place he could relax and forget his troubles.

*********

The Kurigai Botanical Gardens lay on the northern outskirts of Tokyo, a massive indoor structure consisting of twenty four different climate controlled rooms, each several acres in size and all with a different theme and showcase of Japan's various flora species. For someone of Kurama's talent and skill, it was like a second home.

The kitsune had worked a six month internship at the gardens, adding to his status as a worthy student candidate for Shokubutsugaku's Botany and Horticultural department. Not that he needed it. He was already the first in his class, having achieved perfect test scores and enough scholarship money to pay for all four years of his schooling. Still, his love of plants had led him to accept the internship and one of the perks was the key still in his possession. The key he had just used to enter the gardens.

Kurama shut the door quietly behind him, not worried in the least of being discovered. He was free to come and go as he pleased, having earned the right after rescuing some of the native species of ferns that seemed to be suffering some kind of rot.

With slow measured steps, the kitsune walked through the wild flower room, a small smile gracing his lips as the fresh scent of the beautifully arrayed flowers lingered around him. He pushed the glass door gently, his tennis shoed feet making no noise as he weaved in and out of the rain forest room, full of lush and exotic plants and trees. Kurama stopped briefly to undo his coat, folding it across his right arm before continuing even further inside until at last he came to his favorite spot. Closing his eyes, Kurama took in the scent so very familar to him, smiling at the peace that pervaded his soul. Opening his eyes once more, his gaze shifted among the infinite varieties of roses that flooded the room in a plethora of reds, pinks, yellows, whites, blacks, blues. Some within monstrous bushes, some artfully displayed in flower beds. Some that curled around frames and others that hugged the wood chipped earth below. And all were beautiful in his eyes.

Kurama walked slowly around the massive showcase, reaching out here and there, the flowers responding to his touch, blooming open to their full glory as if bidding him welcome. He walked over to a small bench situated a safe distance between two wild rose bushes, their petals as bright and yellow as the sun, and lowered himself down, setting his jacket to the side. Letting out a slow sigh, Kurama closed his eyes, enjoying the peaceful moment. But his peace did not last, for even among the flowers he so loved, he could not forget the concern and uncertainty he felt. Could not turn away from the images that swirled within his mind. It seemed that no matter where he went, what he did, Botan's safety would remain at the forefront of his thoughts, this coupled with his longing to be beside her was wearing him down, pulling him towards a darkness he didn't want to lose himself in.

"And you will lose yourself Kurama if you don't stop this senseless brooding."

Kurama sighed, opening his eyes, his annoyed gaze meeting the impassive one of Hiei. "What do you want Hiei?" He asked a little more sharply than he intended. He had wanted to be left alone. Thought he was alone. But it seemed the fire apparition was intent on being his shadow. Then again the small demon was so adept at finding specific chi signatures, the kitsune wasn't all that surprised to find his best friend standing in front of him. "Don't tell me Mukuro tossed you out of her compound this early in the morning."

Hiei smirked. "No," He replied, crossing his arms. "I was just making sure you went to see Genkai," He paused as he studied his friend. "But it seems that is the last thing on your mind. So tell me Kurama, what the hell are you doing here?"

Kurama looked away. "I couldn't sleep." He murmured, not wanting to talk about what he had witnessed in his nightmare.

"Couldn't sleep huh?" Hiei said with a raised eyebrow. "Most people take a walk or watch that idiotic box with all the moving pictures on it when they can't sleep. They don't go sneaking into public buildings that are closed and off limits."

"It's called a TV, Hiei, and you're right most people wouldn't do that, but I felt a need to be here, these flowers have a calming effect on my heart," Kurama answered, his gaze shifting over to the flowers to his left. "Besides I needed something to do before I went to see Yusuke."

"Why do you need to see Yusuke?"

Kurama turned towards him. "I want to borrow his communication device so I can contact Botan." He answered simply.

"Why not just visit him now?"

The kitsune looked down at his watch, his lips twisting into a smile as his eyes read the time of 7:05. "I guess I could do that." He answered, reaching over to grab his jacket before rising off the bench.

"Don't take too long Kurama. Genkai is anxious to talk to you. And as you know she doesn't like to be kept waiting." Hiei chided his friend as he watched Kurama slide his coat back on.

"I'll get there as soon as I can Hiei." Kurama said with a nod, before turning and walking away.

Hiei watched him go, all the while shaking his head. I'm sorry old friend that you are in such pain. He thought. For the fire apparition had seen the nightmare that plagued the kitsune's sleep and it troubled him. Was this a vision like the one before it? A dark image of a painful reality soon to be or was it simply a nightmare. Hiei had a hard time believing it was something so simple as a bad dream. He would need to watch over Kurama carefully. The kitsune is weakened mentally and physically. His thought as he began to walk back the way he had come, his handsome features twisted in a rare display of concern as he sensed the red haired man's once strong will begin to fade, replaced by an uncertainty and fear that tore away at his health and well being.

The forced separation between the kitsune and the ferry girl was beginning to take it's toll upon Kurama's strength and the strange thing was Hiei knew that his friend wasn't aware of it. Is this what love does to a person? He wondered as he quickly exited the building. Renders them lost and confused? For that was how Kurama was acting, his emotions escaping his once tight bonds. Hiei could see the dismay brimming just below his friend's calm surface.

His thoughts shifted to his encounter with that seductive, exotic woman who had sought to make Kurama hers. That situation certainly wasn't helping matters. Why had she chosen to torment the kitsune and his ferry girl? What possible motive beyond her obvious lust and envy did she have? The fire demon had a sneaking suspicion that she was only one part of the problem. Others were watching them, learning from them. In the hopes of what? Of killing them, defeating them? What could they possibly want? Hiei shook his head, dismissing the idea of anyone surpassing the detectives combined strength. And yet. He was troubled. Something tingled in the back of his mind, a subconscious warning to remain alert and watchful.

Hiei brought his right arm upwards, clenching his taped hand into a fist as he felt the power of his black dragon strain against the bonds that held it at bay. There were few things alive that could withstand his most devastating and powerful attack. And even less with the capacity to overcome it. He feared no creature from any of the three realms. As long as the black dragon was his, he would make sure his friends were safe. Clenching his jaw, Hiei's features grew determined as he dropped his arm and sprinted off towards the temple of Genkai, his shape a black blur against the back drop of the sun that began to rise, carrying with it the light of a brand new day.

********

"See you later mom!" Yusuke yelled before closing his apartment door behind him, Keiko by his side. Black book bags in hand, the two high school students were dressed in their uniforms, heading slowly down the hall to the elevator that would carry them down to the parking lot and Keiko's car.

Yusuke looked over at his pretty girlfriend, flashing her a tender smile as he noticed her peek at him out the corner of her eye. "You know Keiko you keep looking at me like that I'm going to wonder if you haven't gone sweet on me." He teased.

Keiko gave a small laugh and shook her head. "You already know I love you Yusuke." She replied softly, looking away from him.

Yusuke's smile turned playful as he cocked his head to the side, reaching up to push his ear outward. "What was that I heard? Did you just say you loved me?"

Keiko smacked him gamely with her book bag as the two stopped at the elevator door, Yusuke cringing slightly and playfully at the hit as he let out a laugh.

"What am I going to do with you?" She asked as she watched her boyfriend relax once more before moving past her to press the up button.

"Marry me?" He asked, returning to her side, peering down at her with somber brown eyes, the teasing tone replaced by a seriousness one that caused the slender young woman to gasp.

"What?" Keiko squeaked in disbelief, shocked at the serious expression that was fixated upon her boyfriend's features. Is he serious or is he teasing me again? She wondered, her brown eyes widening as Yusuke dropped his book bag and wrapped his arms around her waist, drawing her into his chest, his head resting to the right of hers.

"Marry me." He repeated in a hushed whisper against her ear as he lowered his lips and began to nuzzle her neck.

Keiko let out a soft cry of surprise, looking around to make sure no one else was in the hall. "Yusuke," She began in an almost breathless voice as she tried to ignore the way his kisses upon her neck were making her feel. "We're too young."

Yusuke pulled back, his eyes meeting hers, a frown upon his countenance. "Says who?" He asked. "I love you. You love me. What more is there?"

Keiko brought her free hand up and gently brushed the back of her fingertips upon his cheek. "I'm afraid it's not that simple Yusuke." She answered. "We haven't even finished high school yet. Our whole lives are ahead of us." She added, trying to lower her hand.

But Yusuke gently reached up and held her hand in place, drawing her attention back to him. "And I want us to spend it together Keiko. What's so wrong with that?"

Keiko sighed. "Nothing Yusuke." She conceded, resting her forehead against his chest as the detective released her hand. "It's just, well we can't. Not yet anyway. You're just going to have to be patient with me."

Yusuke's features tightened in pain. He was pushing her again, moving too fast and he knew it. With a sigh, he released his hold upon her waist.

The young lady let out a soft sigh of disappointment at the lost contact only to raise her head and widen her eyes as Yusuke's hands came to rest upon the sides of her face, his gaze full of love and desire as he spoke.

"I will wait for you as long as it takes Keiko. " He said as he rested his forehead against hers and closed his eyes.

Keiko closed her eyes as well, and to the surprise of both, dropped her book bag before reaching up and gently pulling Yusuke's face downward, her lips brushing softly against his.

Yusuke was shocked at her action but quickly overcame it as he brought his hands back around her waist and pulled her lithe body into an intimate embrace all the while deepening the kiss.

Both were too wrapped up to notice the elevator door open.

Kurama gazed at the two lovers in surprise as he slowly walked forward, exiting the elevator just before the doors shut once more.

Yusuke must have sensed the kitsune's chi, for he was the first to open his eyes and pull away.

Keiko soon followed, jumping in surprise as her brown eyes met the amused ones of Kurama. Quickly she composed herself, trying to appear nonchalant about having been caught kissing but she couldn't hide the crimson that began to spread along her cheeks.

"Hey Kurama," Yusuke said in greeting, trying hard not to laugh at the Keiko's embarrassment as he eyed his friend expectantly. "What brings you over here so early in the morning?"

Kurama gave an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry to trouble you Yusuke, but I needed to catch you before you headed off to school." He began, drawing in a breath before letting it out slowly. "I was wondering if I could borrow your communication device for a while."

"Ah." Yusuke said with a knowing smile. "I see. You want to get a hold of Botan, is that it?"

Kurama nodded. "I only need it for the day. I promise to bring it back to you."

Yusuke waved his remark off. "That's okay Kurama 'cause I got yours from that trip we took." He replied turning back towards his apartment, walking forward only to stop as Keiko spoke.

"What trip?" She asked, her eyes narrowing at the suddenly guilty behavior Yusuke was exhibiting.

"Uh ..." Yusuke sounded turning around. "Well ... You see ..." He started and stopped, his eyes shifting away from his girlfriend to Kurama, flashing him a pleading look.

"Yusuke?" Keiko's voice grew low and dangerous as she gazed suspiciously at her boyfriend.

Kurama gave a slight shake of his head. I can't believe Yusuke didn't tell her. He thought, a small smile pulling at his lips at the way his friend began to fidget under Keiko's steady, unrelenting gaze. At last the kitsune took pity upon the detective and spoke in his defense. "The truth is, Keiko, I asked Yusuke to assist me in a little mission to find Hiei a couple of nights ago."

The young woman's gaze did not leave Yusuke as she spoke. "Into Makai you mean?"

"Yes." Kurama answered softly with a nod.

Keiko advanced upon a rapidly backpedaling Yusuke. "And you didn't bother to tell me?!" Keiko snapped as she stopped before her boyfriend whose back was up against the corridor wall, her features twisted in anger as she raised her hand up and began poking Yusuke in the chest with her index finger. "What if something happened to you?! What if I lost you?! Did you ever stop to think how that would affect me?!" She roared, lowering her hand and glaring up at him with pained eyes.

Yusuke frowned, reaching up to rub his now throbbing chest as he shot back. "Get a grip will ya Keiko! You know I would have kicked anybody's ass that tried to mess with me. Don't you have any faith in me at all?!"

Keiko bit her lip and lowered her head, the anger fleeing her system replaced by fear. "I do ... It's just ... I don't want to lose you."

Yusuke's features softened. Reaching out, the detective gently clasped his girlfriend's arms and pulled her close. "You won't lose me. Not now. Not ever." He whispered, his voice full of comfort as he continued to hold her.

Kurama, who had been watching the whole thing in mild amusement, suddenly looked away in pain.

I don't want to lose you.

The very words spoken by Botan in his dream. To hear them spoken again unleashed a flood of emotion, a rising tide of despair within his already broken heart. For Kurama could not give comfort to his love. Could not hold Botan in his arms and whisper his devotion, his love as Yusuke was now doing for Keiko. He could only wish things had been different. That he had been born in Reikai so that their relationship would not be seen as something tainted and impure.

Perhaps I should have gone straight to Genkai's and forgot about the communicator. Perhaps it is better that I leave her alone. He thought sadly, casting his eyes downward as he tried to regain control and composure. It would not do to become emotional. He had to remain controlled, had to keep the pain at bay, to keep the darkness from consuming his soul and mind. He had to remain strong, able to go on. Not wallow in misery like some love sick school boy. Botan would not want him to be like this.

Yusuke had seen Kurama's reaction to Keiko's statement and it struck a chord of sadness within him. His handsome features contorted into concern as he witnessed the tortured look that flashed upon the kitsune's countenance. It must hurt like hell to be separated from the one you love. He thought with a frown. How would I feel if Keiko were taken away from me because someone deemed me unfit for her ?

Pain filled the young man's heart. He would be devastated, unable to function. Lost in a mindless grief from which there would be no escape. Slowly and quietly Yusuke loosened his grip from Keiko, looking tenderly back down at her, he gave her a soft kiss upon her forehead before heading quickly back to his apartment. Don't worry Kurama. Yusuke thought as opened his door and entered his living quarters. I will help you in anyway I can. For Botan's sake and yours I promise.

Keiko watched the dark haired man go back inside his apartment before pivoting around to Kurama whose back was still turned away. Remembering the kitsune mention Botan's name, she became curious. "So uh, Kurama," She began, walking a little closer towards the red haired man. "How is Botan doing? Yusuke didn't tell me what happened between you two yesterday. I hope everything is all right."

Kurama hid the pain behind a smile as he turned to face Keiko. "Everything is fine Keiko. What happened yesterday was a misunderstanding. I just .. don't have the time to go up to Reikai to talk to Botan so I decided to borrow a communication device to contact her instead. She is fairly busy as well." He lied, his gaze shifting beyond the young woman's shoulder as he spied Yusuke coming down the corridor, blue communicator in hand.

"Here you are Kurama. I hope this helps you." Yusuke said, holding out the device for the kitsune to take.

Kurama gave the detective an appreciative nod before clasping the communicator into his own hand. "Thank you Yusuke." He said softly as he stuffed the device into his right jacket pocket.

"It was no trouble Kurama." Yusuke replied as he walked past Kurama to pick up his and Keiko's book bags. Returning to his girlfriend's side he handed her back her bag before looking over to his friend. "So what else are you up to today? Are you going to visit Genkai like Hiei suggested?"

Kurama nodded, impressed that the detective remembered that conversation. "As a matter of fact he visited me earlier, reminding me to seek out her guidance." He answered.

"For what?" Keiko asked, wondering why Kurama needed Genkai's help.

"Just something to help with my nightmares." Kurama answered, not elaborating any further as he turned away from them. "I'm sorry I've taken up so much of your time this morning. I must be going. Don't want to keep Hiei and Genkai waiting." He said as he began to walk towards the elevator, reaching out to push the down button, the doors sliding open from the electronic command.

Keiko looked over to her boyfriend in askance but Yusuke shook his head and silently mouthed, "I'll tell you later." As he motioned her forward, the three of them filing into the elevator that closed it's doors and began to rocket downwards to the designated level.

*******

"Your situation is rather intriguing I must say. " Genkai said softly, lowering her tea cup back upon the saucer that sat upon the tea tray. She was well aware of Kurama's problem as she set her somber brown eyes curiously upon the young man who had arrived a short while ago. "A powerful Youko who never took the time to study mental defense techniques puzzles me to say the least. I wonder why you never tried?"

Kurama, seated opposite the female psychic, met her gaze with a concerned one. "I must confess I've never had to deal with something like this before." He spoke with a tired frown as he brought his tea cup up to his lips and sipped the green liquid swishing within it's confines.

Genkai smiled gamely. "You mean running away from obsessed women intent on sleeping with you?"

Kurama about choked on his tea, but quickly composed himself, lowering the cup back down, his face returning to his usual impassive one. "This woman who attacked me did more than try to seduce me. She was also capable of hurting me in ways I couldn't anticipate."

Genkai's features became thoughtful as she looked to the side, her eyes focusing upon the darkened corner of the room where Hiei stood leaning upon the wall, his arms crossed and his eyes closed. "What exactly did she do to you Kurama. I know only of what Hiei has told me but perhaps it would be best to hear your explanation."

Kurama looked down at his tea cup, swirling the contents idly as he spoke. "When I tried to confront her, I felt an intense, stabbing pain that began in the left side of my chest. I soon found I couldn't use my left arm. The pain and force of her attack was so great it brought me to my knees. It was as if she had complete control of my body."

"Hmm .... " Genkai sounded, returning her attention back upon the red haired man. "You were injured recently, in the upper left of your chest, were you not?"

Kurama nodded, knowing Hiei would have explained the events of the past few days to the psychic. "Yes."

"And the weapon that tore through your tissue was poisoned with the talimantrious toxin."

Again Kurama nodded.

"Could something else have been mixed with the toxin. Some kind of paralytic agent perhaps?"

Kurama's face drained of color as an answer popped instantly into his mind. "Of course." He murmured, drawing his eyes over to Hiei who spoke.

"What is it Kurama?"

"They could have used syrup from a Yubeki plant." He answered softly. Noticing the confused expressions both Genkai and Hiei were exhibiting he elaborated. "It's a rather harmless looking bush found in the rain forests of South America. However, the leaves of the Yubeki contain a toxic syrup that acts as a paralytic agent. But only those of a telepathic or telekinetic ability can use it effectively." Looking away from them, Kurama's features tightened in concern. "Only someone very old, with the knowledge of poisons and spiritual energy would know it's true potential. The one who attacked us in Makai was different than the woman who attacked me. I'm sure of it. Which could mean only one thing."

Hiei stepped away from the shadows to stand beside Genkai, understanding spreading along his handsome features. "There is more than one individual involved."

Kurama nodded, looking back to the two. "Perhaps even a whole group."

Genkai frowned. "I don't like the sound of that. From what Hiei has told me, this woman is quite formidable in her psychic skills. If she is not alone in seeking you out, I'm not certain the training I give you will be sufficient enough to ensure your safety." She said. "On the other hand, you have exceptional spiritual energy and great focus so perhaps it can be achieved after all." She added, rising slowly to her feet.

Kurama gave her a grateful nod. "I welcome any assistance you can give me." He replied, rising as well.

Genkai walked past Kurama towards the opened front door. "Then follow me." She said in a authoritative tone over her shoulder before disappearing out onto the porch.

Kurama obeyed, stopping briefly at the door to slide his shoes back upon his feet before following the small woman down the steps and into the open courtyard awash with the sun's warm light.

Both were instantly aware of, but chose to ignore, two familar chi's some distance away as they continued through the yard towards the heavily woods hills beyond the temple.

"Do we really need to be here Kuwabara?" Yusuke asked with a great sigh, wincing as he shifted his weight upon a rather large, thick bough of a massive oak tree about a hundred feet away from the left side wall of Genkai's fence. "Stupid splinters!" He grumbled under his breath as he reached around and pulled out a rather nasty looking sliver of wood stained red out of his throbbing back side.

"Will you quit complaining. It's not as if your girlfriend was being stalked by some scary freak of nature." Kuwabara growled, his hands clenched around a pair of binoculars pressed against his eyes.

"Well you are a freak of nature." Yusuke teased.

"Not me Urameshi! I'm talking about the shrimp Hiei! Why is he always here?! I thought he had a thing for that tall demon lady Mukuro, so why does he keep pestering Yukina?!"

Yusuke wanted to laugh at the insane jealously his friend was exhibiting. Kuwabara if you only knew. The dark haired detective thought with a shake of his head. It seemed kind of cruel to keep his friend in the dark about Hiei being Yukina's brother. Even Yukina herself didn't know. On the other hand it was rather funny to watch Kuwabara get all pent up over nothing. "We really should be getting back to school. If Keiko finds me gone, she'll kick my ass for sure."

"Fine. Go then." Kuwabara said sharply. "But I'm staying here until I find out exactly what that punk wants with my girl."

Yusuke's shoulders sagged. "Come on Kuwabara. You're not going to see anything! Hiei probably already knows were here so it's pointless to keep on spying."

"Genkai and Kurama walked right past us and didn't so much as flinch." Kuwabara offered, binoculars focused straight ahead.

"That's because they already knew we were here. Duh!"

"Don't start insulting me Urameshi! I'm not in the mood for it!"

"Yeah well, I'm not in the mood for my ass going numb from sitting up in this freaking tree! So let's go!" Yusuke retorted, preparing to leap off the branch.

"Wait a minute!" Kuwabara snapped, tightening his hold as he spied Hiei walk out of the main temple room and walk slowly along the porch, rounding the corner to head towards Yukina's room. "What the hell is he doing?" Kuwabara murmured under his breath. The big man let out a small cry as his binoculars were snatched out of his grip. "What are you doing Urameshi?" He growled turning back to his friend, his dark eyes narrowing dangerously. "Give those back!"

"Relax will ya. I just want to take a look for a moment." Yusuke replied, swatting the bigger man's outstretched hand roughly away.

Kuwabara sulked, crossing his arms and closing his eyes.

"Oh my God! I don't believe it!" Yusuke shouted emphatically causing the big man's eyes to snap open and his hand to lash out, swiping the binoculars out of the smaller man's hands.

"What is it?! If that shrimp ... " Kuwabara roared, only to have his features turn from anger to irritation as he witnessed the fire demon walk past Yukina's room towards the woodland behind the temple.

Yusuke began to laugh hard. "You're such a sap Kuwabara! You fell for that so easily! Man what a doofus!" He taunted his friend only to let out a cry of pain as Kuwabara's fist smashed into the back of his head, knocking the smaller man clear out of the tree, sending him flying outward and into the female psychic's courtyard, landing into a crumpled heap, his eyes swirling in disorientation and shock.

*******

"What is this place?" Kurama asked standing before the entrance to a large cave, Genkai by his side, his emerald eyes noting with interest that the light of the sun refused to enter it's domain. He sensed something odd, something that caused the hair on the back of his neck to rise. It felt so cold, so empty, devoid of life. And yet, it was alive. The darkness was somehow alive. But how can darkness be alive? Kurama wondered, a large part of him wanting nothing to do with this place.

"The cave of sorrow." Genkai replied, stepping inside, her small frame swallowed by the inky blackness that filled the empty space.

Kurama hesitated briefly, wondering just what he was getting himself into. But the image of Botan entered his mind, a warm smile and a love reflected in her eyes that soon eased his fear and calmed him. It was as if she were standing beside him. Taking courage, Kurama walked forward, stopping behind Genkai who began to speak.

"In here lies the solution to your problem Kurama. For it is here that you will learn quickly how to defend yourself from any telepathic onslaught imaginable. That is if the strain doesn't kill you first."

"What do you mean?" Kurama asked, his eyes trying to adjust to the darkness but all he saw was a void, a big black space of nothingness.

"As you rightly assume, the darkness is alive. Within these blackened walls, every evil thought, every negative emotion, every lustful need has been consumed and recycled. The farther in you go, the more depressive and invasive the attack will be. It will probe your mind, test your limits, break you and, if given the chance, destroy you. For the darkness feeds on those of weak minds. If you can survive this assault, there is no psychic threat you will not be able to predict or counteract."

"Have you ever made it through the other side?" Kurama asked.

Genkai did not answer at first as she turned and walked back out into the light, Kurama close behind.

"No." She said at last.

Kurama almost fell over at her statement. "No?"

"No." She repeated, turning to face the young man. "I really don't expect you to either. But it is not necessary for you to pass to the other side to complete your training. It is merely a testing ground for the techniques I'm about to teach you. But that is a ways off yet." She answered walking back towards the temple, smiling as she saw Hiei approach.

"So you showed him did you?" The fire apparition asked with a smirk as he noticed Kurama's still shocked expression. "Tell me, Kurama, are you up to the challenge?"

The kitsune blinked, calming himself as he spoke. "Of course." He answered confidently, traversing the hilly terrain with little difficulty as he made his way back to the temple, a smiling Genkai and a smirking Hiei close behind.

The trio arrived in the courtyard, Genkai and Kurama's eyes widened while Hiei's appeared amused at the sight of Yusuke sprawled out on the lawn, his eyes disorientated and his features pained.

Kurama hurried over to Yusuke's side and crouched down. "Hey Yusuke, are you all right?" He asked, waving his hand across the detective's eyes.

"I'm ... fine .... mom ... Just a little dizzy ... that's all ..."

Hiei gave a small laugh while Genkai shook her head and marched over to her ex pupil. "Hey moron! Get your lazy ass up! Aren't you supposed to be in school!" She shouted, tapping the detective roughly with her foot.

Yusuke automatically came to his senses, bolting up onto his feet, his features angered as he swiveled his head quickly back and forth. "Where is that no good Kuwabara .. When I find ..." He stopped his search as his eyes met the irritated ones of Genkai. "Oh hey grandma ... How's it going?"

Genkai quickly reached out and grabbed Yusuke's ear, bending him down to her face level. "Why the hell didn't you inform me what was going on with you four? Don't you have any respect for your sensei at all?!"

Yusuke growled, freeing himself of her hold as he straightened his frame. "I didn't want to bother you." He retorted, reaching up to rub his now red ear.

Genkai crossed her arms. "Well it seems a little late for that now." She said with a snort as she walked past the men. "Get back to school Yusuke and take your friend with you." She added, her senses searching out and finding the sheepish frame of Kuwabara walking quickly along the outside of the fence towards the open space a short distance ahead. "Kurama come inside. We have training to do and not much time to do it in." She said over her shoulder as she began to march up the steps and into the main building of her temple.

Kurama nodded, starting forward, stopping as Yusuke patted him on the shoulder. "Good luck Kurama. The old lady can be a real dragon if you know what I mean."

"I heard that!" Genkai shouted. "Get moving Yusuke!"

"Yes ma'am!" The detective shouted back, racing through the yard to the main steps that led away from the temple, laughing at his former teacher's gruff attitude. "Come on Kuwabara!" He yelled as he disappeared from view.

"I best be going as well. I have training of my own to do." Hiei said as he started to walk away.

"Have fun." Kurama said in a teasing voice.

"I intend to." Hiei replied, looking over to his friend with an enigmatic smile before disappearing in a blur of black.

Kurama watched his friend go, before drawing in a deep breath and heading inside.

The training lasted for over four hours without break or interruption. And in that whole time all Kurama did was meditate. To clear his mind of all doubt, emotion or thought. To retreat into himself and become one with his mental state. To his surprise he found this difficult to maintain. To sit and think of nothing when the wheels within his mind were constantly turning proved quite challenging and on more than one occasion Genkai had berated him for his lack of focus. But it was hard not to think about things. To not think about his life, to not think about school, to not think about .. Botan. He couldn't stop thinking about her. Just when he believed he had cleared his mind, she would waltz into his vision, a lovely image begging to be held, desired, loved. And Kurama wanted all those things. To marry her, settle down, start a family ....

"You're losing focus again Kurama." Genkai said sharply.

Kurama opened his eyes, his features apologetic as he gazed over to the old woman sitting a small distance opposite of him. "I'm sorry Genkai. It's just that I can't stop thinking about her."

"You mean Botan don't you?"

Kurama nodded. "From the first moment I laid my eyes upon her I was lost." He said softly, looking away from the psychic, his features distant. "I have never felt such a strong emotion as this Genkai. Oh, I love my mother very much. I love my stepbrother and step father as well. But this is different .. It's as if ..." He started then stopped, unsure how to express what he was feeling.

"As if you've found the missing part of yourself." Genkai completed for him.

Kurama smiled in surprise. "Yes. Exactly."

The female psychic gave a small laugh at the startled expression on the red haired man's face. "I may be old Kurama but I was once in love myself. Although for me it didn't end up quite the way I expected it to." She replied in a saddened tone.

The kitsune lowered his head in sympathy, knowing full well the history of Genkai and Toguro. "I'm sorry." He murmured.

"Don't be." She countered. "It wasn't all bad. There were good times had even if it broke my heart. But that is in the past. I'm more worried about the present and the profound sadness I sense within your soul Kurama." She said before asking, "So tell me my boy, what troubles you? Botan didn't run away with another man did she?"

Kurama's head remained lowered as he spoke. "No." He began softly. "Koenma has forbidden her involvement with me. He claims the law of Reikai forbids relationships outside of their realm. To do so results in their immediate death."

Genkai frowned. "I've never heard of such a law." She said. "Then again I don't know everything there is to know about spirit world. Did he elaborate any further to you?"

"No. But when Yusuke went to speak to Koenma, he told me the spirit lord mentioned something about the elders of Reikai. Do you know who they are?"

Genkai seemed startled at the mention of the word elders but she quickly regained her composure, closing her eyes as she spoke. "They are the governing body of Reikai you could say. The ones who maintain the laws and order of the realm. They are separate from Koenma in power and have never been seen by any human or demon in over a thousand years."

Kurama frowned. "Just how powerful are they?"

"I'm not sure. I've heard tales though. Dark stories about a war long ago. When the elders had sent Reikai soldiers into Ningenkai and Makai to look for some lost artifact vital to the survival of the spirit world. They slaughtered many in their path, but never found the item. Their actions led to a war between Ningenkai, Makai and Reikai, in which Reikai won. As punishment, a barrier was placed making it nearly impossible for all but the strongest and smartest demons to escape into the human world, where many had mates and family. This war led the elders to believe that humans and demons were little more than simple creatures too stupid and simple to understand the truth about the universe. And they would have wiped them out if King Enma hadn't intervened. At least that's how the story went."

"Do you know what the artifact was?" Kurama asked.

Genkai shook her head. "No. Nor do I know why the elders would do something so sacrilegious as to kill so many people. It is not their place to give or take life. For they are not God. Merely inhabitants close to the realm of heaven."

Kurama's features turned thoughtful. "Koenma also mentioned that someone from Reikai had fallen in love with someone outside the spirit realm and in the end everyone involved was wiped out, the innocent along with the guilty. Could that of had something to do with the war?"

"It's possible." The psychic conceded. "But now is not the time to dwell on such things. You must grow stronger mentally Kurama." She said, closing her eyes, her breathing slowing down, her features growing passive.

Kurama watched her silently for a few seconds before closing his eyes, mimicking her posture and tried once again to free his mind of his worries and cares. But in the back of his mind, Botan still walked and Kurama found himself a willing traveler along the pathway she traversed.

Six more hours passed, the light fading from the world, signaling the coming of evening. And it was only then that Genkai concluded her training for the day, telling Kurama to come back tomorrow.

The kitsune nodded, accepting without complaint, knowing it was in his best interest to continue. Although he wasn't sure if he could. Botan dominated his thoughts, so much so he couldn't concentrate on anything else. Not even for his own good. The drive home passed quickly. He pulled into the driveway, parking his bike in the usual spot, frowning when he noticed his mother's car was missing. He hopped off his bike, retrieving his house key which he used to gain entry inside. Removing his shoes and coat, he walked over into the kitchen, his observant eyes noticing a slip of paper upon the table. Picking it gently up he brought it up to his face and read it. The note informed him that his mother and father had gone to visit some friends and would be back sometime later in the evening while his brother had gone to stay the night at a friend's house. The kitsune let out a tired sigh, carrying the note with him as he climbed slowly up the steps and into his room. Closing the door softly behind him, Kurama walked over to his desk, set the paper down and turned on his lamp. Reaching into his jeans pocket, he retrieved the communicator Yusuke had given him, eyeing it with uncertainty as he lowered himself on the edge of his bed. He turned it over in his hands several times, contemplating whether or not to contact the deity. What if she wasn't there? What if Koenma caught her talking to him?

Finally after much debate, the kitsune flipped open the device, pushed the correct buttons and waited.

******

Botan walked slowly along one of the many book laden corridors of the massive Reikai palace library, searching for ancient laws and principles that dealt with the spirit realm. She had been at it for hours upon hours and so far had only managed to find one book and it had given her little to go on, being too abstractly written to be of much use. She needed something more concrete, something easier to understand. She needed to know why the law that prevented her from being with Kurama was so severe. She needed to find a way to be with the kitsune. For if she couldn't she very well would die. Not from bodily harm, but by grief and loneliness. Already she felt weakened. As if a part of herself was missing. And that part was Kurama. She could no more live without him than live without air. He completed her. He was her soul mate. Her better half and she would do what ever it took to make her dream a reality. I will be with him. No matter what happens. I will never give up.

Her features became hopeful as she spied another book high upon the top shelf above her, the words, Common Laws of Reikai, emblazoned in black upon the blue binding. With a little help from her oar, the deity was able to retrieve it. Lowering herself down, Botan opened the book, smiling. Yes. This is more like it. She thought, flipping through a few pages, able to understand the paragraphs, written in laymen's terms without all the legal mumbo jumbo. Snapping the book closed, she marched briskly out of the library and down the corridor to her room. She arrived a few minutes later, her ears picking up the unmistakable sound of her communicator going off. She stood absolutely still, as if to make sure what she heard was not a figment of her overactive imagination but an actual sound. When the beeping continued, Botan scrambled furiously over to her night stand, ripping open the small drawer and snatching the device into her anxious hand. Flipping it open, her eyes brightened at the sight upon the small monitor. "Kurama!" She cried joyfully, a happy smile upon her lips. A smile mimicked by the kitsune.

"Good evening Botan." He said in a light voice, as if the weight of the world had been lifted off his shoulders. "I didn't interrupt anything important did I?"

Botan waved his question away. "No. Of course not. I was .. " She paused, her ears picking up the sound of shuffling feet outside her bedroom door.

"Botan? Is something wrong?" Kurama asked, his features tightened in such concern Botan wanted to reach through and ease his worries.

Walking softly to her window, the deity opened the French doors and entered the balcony, closing the doors behind her. Now sure she was alone, Botan responded. "Everything's fine. Now that I have you to talk to." She said in a loving tone that struck a chord with the kitsune, his eyes reflecting a love Botan shared.

"I just called to ... let you know ..." Kurama began then paused, his features twisting in pain. "I can't stop thinking about you ... That I love you and hope to see you soon." Kurama added in a hushed whisper.

"Me too." Botan said in a reverent tone, reaching out to caress the screen briefly before retracting her hand. Trying to lighten the mood she asked. "So what have you been up to today? Nothing too strenuous I hope."

Kurama smiled, more than willing to engage in small talk. As long as I can look upon her fair countenance, I will do whatever she asks of me. He thought as he answered. "Nothing much. I went to the botanical gardens for awhile then hung around doing odds and ends. Preparing for the move to Sakaoshimi. Things of that nature." He lied, not wanting to worry his beloved with his problems. "How about you?"

"Well, since I've been grounded to the palace, I've decided to catch up on some reading. Get to know the ways of the spirit realm a little better." She replied, not wanting him to know she had found precious little to help their situation. "But mostly I just wished I was with you in the human world. I miss hanging out with you guys." She paused. "I miss you Kurama."

Kurama lowered his eyes in pain. "I miss you Botan." He replied in a strained voice. " I wish I could ..." He started then stopped, unable to bring himself to tell her how badly he wanted to hold her.

"Kurama?"

The kitsune shook his head. "Nothing. It's nothing Botan. Please don't worry about me. I'm fine really."

But the deity didn't believe it. "But I do worry Kurama. It hurts me to think you're suffering because of me. If I lost you, my world would end. That's how much you mean to me."

Kurama looked at her, emerald eyes aflame with such intense devotion and affection, Botan thought her heart would explode.

"As do I Botan. As do I."

The two chatted for a few more moments, then a silence lingered between them, neither wanting to say good bye. At last Kurama spoke.

"Well, I guess I should let you go. I'm sure you're tired."

Botan nodded. "Yes. Tired." And although she was, she didn't want him to go.

"Well, good night then." He whispered with a loving smile that melted the deity's heart.

"Good night." She repeated, watching sadly as the monitor faded to black.

Folding the lid slowly over, Botan cradled the device against her heart, turning to enter her room. Good night my love. She thought, her heart filled with grief and longing as she walked over to her bed and collapsed upon it, closing her eyes until sleep claimed her and carried her off into the land of dreams.