Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ After the Fall ❯ Within A Rose, Lies the Promise of A Future Part 1 ( Chapter 23 )

Well here I am with another update for my loyal readers! I'm sorry for the delay but I had a devil of a time working on this one. There was lots and lots of research involved in finding out certain parts of Tokyo. I ended up concentrating mostly in the Shinjuku area. Everywhere Kurama and Botan go is a factual place since I wanted to make this as authentic and real as possible. Of course you won't see that until the next chapter but I hope you forgive the lateness of this chapter but as I said before the places they will visit are really in Tokyo and not made up! And also there are aspects of this story that may seem a little across the board but I apologize in advance if you find it a little odd.

A/N: Because this was a very long chapter, I split it up. Part II will be posted a short time after Part I because I still want to tweak it a little. Otherwise it would have been a very long chapter! And Sessha doesn't want to be the cause of any eyestrain that would have occurred otherwise.

Thanks to Marin M and all who reviewed!

Onto the story!

Chapter 23-- Within A Rose, Lies the Promise of A Future Part I

Darkness prevailed above the neon lit streets of Tokyo, bringing with it the chill of late fall. Unlike the mass of party goers below him that flocked the endless sidewalks of the cosmopolitan city scuttling along, looking for a place to warm up, Tahomen embraced the cold. He reveled in the works of nature, thrived in it's unpredictability and devastation. It was why he had spent most of his lifetime in the realm of Makai, preferring the turbulent life of a shinobi to that of the constant striving for comfort and excess that the human population seemed obsessed upon. Give me a good fight over a good job any day, the man in black thought as he straightened his frame, disappearing in a blink of an eye from the massive building he stood atop of.

A short time later, the shinobi entered his brother's sanctuary for the outside world, the open elevator stopping on the second floor of the large building. Tahomen marched briskly down the darkened corridor, reaching up to remove the ninja hood from his head, revealing his short black hair plastered down upon his crown. His rugged features took on a troubled look as his dark eyes scanned the empty hallway. He knew where Ren was and what he was doing. He also knew his brother always conducted his training in secret, not willing to let anyone, even his allies see what he was up to. The large man came to a stop beside a small metallic door. No handle presented itself. His gaze shifted over to small black screen to his right.

Tahomen stood still, pondering whether or not to disturb his elder brother who was just beyond the door. Seconds passed. I must tell him what I've discovered. He must know the truth. He determined at last. Shifting the hood over to his left hand, Tahomen reached up and swiped his right index finger over the screen. The black box glowed green, the door sliding open in a whoosh of sound granting the shinobi entrance into the pitch black domain. He took a step forward then two, his large frame swallowed by the darkness only to suddenly dive to the floor as his ears picked up the sound of whistling metal to his left. Tahomen landed with a thud, cursing himself mentally for his stupidity. I should of known he would do that!

"You better have a good reason for interrupting my training Tahomen." Ren's voice echoed coldly in the room.

Tahomen brought his gaze upright, his surprised features visible by the sudden burst of blue light that flamed around his approaching sibling who walked past him to the wall were two shuriken stars lay imbedded within the metallic walls that lined the room. "I followed the detectives like you requested." He replied in an even tone as he pushed himself off the ground and onto his feet, his large frame now visible as the room was instantly filled with light, his dark orbs trained on the leaner frame of Ren who turned around, eyeing him in irritation.

"I'm well aware of what I told you to do Tahomen, my question is what the hell is so important you have to tell me right now. You know I don't like to be disturbed while training." Ren growled as he walked across the hardwood floor, stopping a few feet from Tahomen who kept his gaze level though his voice was slightly shaky.

"They know."

Ren quirked an eyebrow, understanding exactly whom the taller man was referring to. "And what, pray tell, is it you think they know?"

"The detectives know they are in danger, that we are waiting for them to drop their guard. They've begun preparations. Training in a telepathic field that mimics their powers at their level."

Ren scoffed at his brother's anxiety. "What do they know Tahomen?" He said with a wave of his hand. " Nothing. Just a vague sense of danger. They know not who it is or where it will come from. There is nothing to worry about." He added as he walked past the larger man towards a large black duffel bag tucked at the far side of the empty room.

Tahomen was not convinced. "And this game you're playing with Kurama?" He said in a dark tone. The shinobi was well aware of his brother's growing obsession with ruining the fox spirit's life. And it worried him. "You are quite clever my brother but I question the reasoning for your hostile actions towards him. Surely the kitsune has become suspicious about you?"

Ren snorted. As he should be. The smaller man thought with a smirk. If Kurama only knew what he was planning, the new ideas that formed in his head regarding the red head's lovely ferry girl, the kitsune would kill him without hesitation. "Kurama is my problem Tahomen. I will deal with him in my own way, just as I left Mukuro and Hiei for you to deal with or did you forget it was you who attacked the fire demon's sensei the other night?"

Tahomen crossed his arms. He remembered that night and although he had succeeded in wounding the female fire demon, he had been unable to use most of the techniques he had learned. That fact frustrated him more than the accusing tone of his brother's voice as he replied, "As per your orders Ren."

"So it was." The gray eyed man said with a shrug as he dropped the stars into the bag.

"So what do we do now?"

Ren turned slowly over to his brother, a manic smile tugging at his lips as he spoke. "Our time will come soon enough Tahomen. The detectives can train to their hearts content, it will do them no good against us. Against what we have learned." He answered in a confident tone as he turned back to his black bag. "Soon everything the detectives have ever loved will be taken from them and nothing will stand in our way." So that they will know how we felt. Ren added mentally. "Now leave me. I have training to do." He barked dismissively at Tahomen who clenched his jaw but complied, exiting the room, leaving his brother alone in the darkness that suddenly flooded the room once more.

******

Kurama walked slowly down the brightly lit corridor that led to his apartment, a simple silver metallic key chain clutched in his right hand. A soft sigh escaped his lips as he came to a stop before his door, his motions automatic as he unlocked and twisted the knob, pushing the door forward gently. He entered the near black atmosphere, retracting the key then closing the door behind him as he slipped off his shoes and then his coat, placing them in their proper places before walking across the wood floor to the kitchen, flicking the switch near the cabinets. The room brightened instantly, flooding the area with a soft white light. Kurama's eyes swept quickly over the spacious room, making sure everything was as it should be, before relaxing his frame.

It had been a long day. A long and weary one. So many things had happened. Things that bothered the kitsune more than he wanted to admit. Like why Yoh was hiding the real reason behind his self inflicted injury. Why Ren seemed hell bent on fighting with him. And why the visions he had been suffering from were growing worse by the day. The perpetrators of the vicious acts witnessed by his subconscious mind were unknown to him, but why? Why couldn't he see their faces? If they were mere dreams he should be able to will their identity out into the forefront. Shouldn't he? Or was there more to it than simple nightmares? An outside force perhaps?

Kurama drew in his breath as he pondered these questions, wincing at the pain that ignited in his chest and sides. Releasing his breath slowly, the kitsune reached up and completely unbuttoned his dirt streaked white oxford shirt. Pulling the sides open, Kurama peered down, frowning at the numerous dark bruises forming along the tender skin and muscle of his torso. Memories flashed in his mind, his body lifted into the air and slammed into the ground face first, the impact crushing against his lean frame, rocks grinding into his flesh and muscle, forcing the air out of his lungs. He had forgotten the pain during the battle, shoving it to the side in order to deal with the threat hovering around him. And now with his training done for the day, he had ample opportunity to heal himself.

So why didn't I? He wondered as he lowered his hands to the side. I just wanted to come home. He answered himself, his frown deepening as he noticed the state of his clothing. His jeans streaked in the same grime that marred his once clean shirt. Not to mention the fact that his hair and body smelled of sweat, dirt and blood. I need to clean up. He decided, walking out of the kitchen and around the corner, following the short pathway that led him to his bedroom.

The kitsune turned left and past the open doorway, his white socked feet marching across the beige carpeted floor of his spacious room. He moved past the king size bed adorned in royal blue bedding and matching pillows and into the adjoining bathroom. His walked silently across the white tinged laminated floor past the equally white porcelain sink and toilet before stopping in-between the large bathtub to his left and the glass paneled shower bordered with gold tinged metal tucked in the corner on his right. A few seconds passed before Kurama reached a decision and moved over to his right, stripping off his shirt and tossing it into the open white hamper against the wall near the shower. He quickly shed the rest of his clothing and opened the glass door, entering the shower then closing the door behind him. Kurama adjusted the settings of the shower head then turned the knob, a blast of hot water washing over him, carrying with it the grime that clung to his hair and skin.

Kurama braced himself against the shower wall, welcoming the soothing heat of the water over his tense and weary muscles. The strain he put on his body when transforming to Youko had been taxing. Even though he could morph into his demon half with relative ease, that didn't make the pain of muscles and bones stretching lessen. But the strain he felt went far beyond the physical.

His mind had been pushed near it's limits during that training session, blocking his pain and anger away from Botan took more out of him than he thought possible. But I didn't want her to worry. He thought, a soft smile forming on his lips as his mind turned inward, back to the last time he saw Botan's pretty face. The love she had for him, unconditional and pure, lifted his heart and washed his pain away more than the water could have ever done. Botan had only been away from him for half a day and already he missed her. She was a calming presence, chasing away the demons that stalked him in his slumber, tormenting him nightly with twisted images and painful possibilities. When he had fell asleep with her in his arms the nightmares fled, replaced by a light the darkness could not vanquish.

Botan. His mind whispered lovingly. She truly was the missing part of his soul.

Just then a beeping noise reached the attuned hearing of Kurama who promptly shut off the water, cocking his head to the side to make sure he had truly heard something. When the beeping noise intensified, Kurama reached out and pushed open the glass door. Steam escaped out into the cooler air of the bathroom, swirling around the red head's naked frame as he stepped out onto the small, mint green floor mat in front of him. Snaking out his left hand, the kitsune grabbed a large terry cloth bath towel tinted in the same shade as the mat off the metal rack beside the shower and wrapped it quickly around his waist, tucking in the corner before marching out into his bedroom. Goose bumps erupted along his exposed skin as he entered the hallway, but Kurama paid no mind. He knew the source of the noise and wasn't about to pass up the opportunity to talk to her, half naked or otherwise. Brushing the water off his face, the kitsune stopped in front of his desk and stretched out his right hand, pulling open the top side drawer. Reaching inside, his fingers found the source of the noise which he snatched up into his hand, retracting his arm back before flipping open the blue communicator.

Botan's cheerful face appeared instantly on screen. "Hey Kur .. " She started her greeting, only to fall silent, her amethyst eyes widening. There before her stood her beloved, draped only in a towel, water trickling down his toned chest and abs, his hair matted down, bangs clinging to his forehead just like the night he had saved her in Makai. Her heart fluttered at the memory. That day when they had declared their feelings for each other. Botan's face took on a wistful look, a soft sigh escaping from her lips as she turned her gaze to the side.

"Ahem." Kurama coughed politely, a smirk forming on his lips at the reaction his nearly naked state had brought about in the deity.

Botan blinked, returning her gaze to the screen, a blush creeping along her cheeks. Her lips moved, words fumbling out as she tried in vain to compose herself. "Uh ... I see... I called at .. Uh ..." She replied, frowning at the way she sounded. Stop ogling him and get a hold of yourself! She snarled mentally. Closing her eyes briefly, the deity willed herself calm.

"Botan?"

The ferry girl opened her eyes, studying Kurama more intently than the first time. Her features darkened as she noticed the bluish black marks along the kitsune's ribcage and chest. What the .. "Kurama what happened to you?" She asked in a pained voice as her eyes traveled up to the red haired man's suddenly somber face.

I knew I should have taken care of that earlier. He thought with an inward growl as he spoke. "Just a few bruises from the training field today." He answered in a dismissive tone, as if it were hardly worth mentioning.

Botan's features did not soften. "A few bruises huh?" She replied. "It looks like you got stomped into the ground to me. Why didn't you heal yourself?"

Kurama sighed. "I just wanted to come home Botan. I've had a rough day ever since you and I parted."

Botan's expression changed to one of concern, feeling at last the walls break from around the kitsune's heart and soul, the pain and weariness palpable to her own heart. "What happened today Kurama?"

Kurama studied her for a few seconds, determining whether or not to tell her. "Let me get dressed real quick and I'll call you back okay?" He said at last, waiting for the deity to respond.

Botan nodded. "Okay." She replied, flipping the communicator closed. She shifted slightly in the wicker seat beside her bed, adjusting her pink kimono so that it was no longer twisted around her lithe frame. She had been so anxious to speak with Kurama after finishing her shift she had neglected to change into her evening wear. Of course she had remembered about the training field. And although he hadn't mentioned it, the deity knew Kurama would be blocking any emotions he was feeling to spare her from the pain. She smiled. You may have blocked me, but I still worry over you my love. She thought, flinching as the communicator resting on her lap beeped. Picking it up, she opened it, her eyes greeted with the sight of a now clothed Kurama.

The kitsune sat beside the arm rest of his couch, his long legs adorned in a pair of dark blue pajama pants, a gray T-shirt wrapped loosely around his torso. His emerald eyes stared fondly into the amethyst ones of Botan who broke their silence first.

"Okay Kurama tell me what happened to you today."

Kurama drew in a breath and let it out slowly. He reiterated his conflict with his teacher, the medical condition of Yoh and his run in with Ren in even tones only to go silent as Botan asked,

"What exactly did this Ren guy do to upset you Kurama?"

Kurama looked away from her, not wanting to repeat what the dark haired man had said.

"Kurama?" Botan's voice grew terse, her brow furrowing at his silence.

"I'd rather not say Botan." He said softly.

Botan frowned. What is it he doesn't want to tell me? She wondered. "Come on Kurama. You're my soul mate. You can tell me anything."

Kurama sighed as he returned his gaze to her. "He said something in regards to you Botan. And suffice to say it wasn't nice." He answered at last, stiffening his spine, a signal he wished to drop the subject.

Botan's thoughts drifted briefly back to the incident at the festival when those three men had called her nasty names. Kurama had reacted quickly and in uncharacteristic violence at their behavior. And again you defend my honor. The deity thought with a loving smile. "Very well." She said in a soft tone before adding. "What else happened?"

Botan listened attentively, as Kurama told her the rest of the altercation, her features becoming more concerned with every word he spoke. When he had finished, the deity asked, "Why is he so intent on beating you?"

Kurama shrugged. "I don't know Botan." He said before adding softly. "But I'm beginning to wonder about his true intent."

Botan frowned, not liking the sound of that one bit. "What do you mean?"

Kurama's brow furrowed. He hadn't meant to give voice to that last comment. Yet it had slipped out anyway. "It's nothing of importance Botan." He said in a nonchalant tone. "I'd rather focus on this weekend." He added. Though he had already decided on a few places to take the deity to, he still wanted to have her input. "So tell me my love," He began softly, "What would you like to do?"

Botan blushed, a frenzy of thoughts running through her mind, some more pure than others. The deity closed her eyes as she berated herself. Bad Botan! You know what he's asking! "Well, I don't really know Kurama." She began, opening her eyes once again, her features turning thoughtful. "I've never been out on a date before."

Kurama smiled, a small chuckle escaping from his lips. "Neither have I."

Botan smiled back. "I guess we're both new at this huh?"

The kitsune nodded. "But that doesn't mean we can't have fun together." He said lightly before his voice grew more serious. "Is there anything in particular you'd like to see? Any place you've never been before?" He asked, studying the deity's features as he waited patiently for her to reply.

Botan pondered his questions. Hmm.... She thought as she looked off into the distance, tapping her chin. Is there anything I've never seen or done before. Her features brightened as she lowered her hand back to her side. "Could we see a show together?" She asked.

"Do you mean in a movie theater or a live show?"

"Either one would be great!" Botan replied enthusiastically.

Kurama wanted to chuckle at her almost child like enthusiasm. "Okay." He said with a nod, mentally noting her response. "Is there anything else that interests you Botan?"

The deity looked at him with tender eyes. "I'm sure what ever you come up with will be great Kurama. So stop worrying about it!" She said in a lightly chiding tone.

The kitsune sighed. Of course she could feel his anxiety over the situation. "I just want to include you in the planning Botan. I really want you to enjoy your weekend off."

"As long as I'm with you Kurama, that's enough for me." Botan whispered, unleashing the truth of her heart so that Kurama could feel how deeply she loved him.

Kurama smiled tenderly, the love the deity felt washing over him, soothing his doubt.

Seconds passed, neither able to put in words the love they felt for each other, expressing it rather in their tight bond, basking in the glow of the other's affection.

The deity frowned suddenly as she sensed a slight pain in her chest. Pain that came from Kurama. "You still haven't healed yourself have you?" She asked, eyeing him sternly.

Kurama flashed an apologetic smile. "I found it more important to spend time with you."

Botan gave him a shy smile but her voice was slightly chiding as she said, "I don't like you being in pain Kurama."

"It's not that bad. I'm more concerned about tomorrow."

"Tomorrow?" The deity whispered. Don't tell me he has to go back again. She thought, her features turning to concern as she studied the kitsune.

"I must continue training Botan," Kurama answered, his tone unapologetic, though his features tightened as he felt the worry and distress emanating from his beloved. "It is the only way I can grow stronger. The only way we can hope to beat the darkness threatening this world."

Botan lowered her gaze. She understood what he was saying. Understood the reasoning behind his actions. But she also knew the risks. I know he is strong and clever but still .. Still she worried over his well being. I fear for him and for Ningenkai.

Kurama frowned, the growing fear Botan felt for his safety echoing within his heart and mind. "It is all right Botan." He said softly, drawing the deity's gaze back up to him. The concern he saw reflected within her pained eyes hurting him more than the bruises along his body. He wished she were with him now. Wanted to pull her into his arms and give her the comfort and love she so deserved. But until this conflict is resolved, we are destined to be apart. He thought sadly. This is what his mind said. His body, however, had different ideas. Slowly and with great care, the kitsune raised his right hand, reaching out to caress the screen.

Botan's features relaxed, growing tender as she mimicked the motion. Several seconds passed as the two reveled in feelings of the other's heart before lowering their hands simultaneously.

"I ... better call it a night." Botan said softly, her tone reluctant as she looked away from the screen.

"Me too." Kurama said in a soft voice. "I will see you soon love."

Botan nodded, unable to bring her gaze back to his handsome face, not wanting to see the sadness she felt in their closing moments together. "Good night Kurama."

"Good night Botan."

Kurama shut the top to the communicator slowly, a heavy sigh escaping his lips as he pressed the device against his forehead and closed his eyes, sending a silent prayer to heaven above for strength in the upcoming confrontation and strength of heart for what he had planned to ask the deity. I only hope she will accept. He thought with a small smile as he opened his eyes and rose from his seat, walking slowly over to his desk. With great care, the kitsune placed the communicator back in it's proper spot, hoping the night would pass peacefully without the nightmares that plagued him, praying he would receive enough rest to confront whatever problems presented themselves on the training field. Because the next few days were bound to be more difficult than today had ever been. And if I lose focus, I lose my life. And that will simply not do. Kurama added mentally as he headed off to his room and retired for the night.

*******

A dark mist hovered around the training field near Genkai's, carrying with it an air of silence that rattled the senses of Kuwabara. The tall man stood warily within the thick haze, his dark eyes scanning the surrounding area, narrowing as he tried to focus his mind and seek out his opponent. But the silent assault on his ears taking place around him made it nearly impossible. He knew not if the others were nearby, watching his progress, waiting to see him screw up or if he was truly alone in this strange mock battle. Added to his worries was the throbbing pain in his right leg where his assailant had managed to strike first. Grunting, Kuwabara disengaged his spirit sword and covered the bleeding wound in his upper thigh, blood flowing freely between his fingers as he applied pressure.

Stupid Urameshi and his bright ideas! The orange haired detective grumbled in his mind After a relatively easy second session of training, Yusuke had decided to do something a little different on day three. Something that raised Kuwabara's blood pressure. The tall man was still fuming at the dark haired detective's insistence on having all but Hiei close their minds, allowing the fire demon alone to create their opponents this round. And in a freaking fog no less! Kuwabara grit his teeth as he clamped harder upon the wound, angered at his lapse in chi detection. He had been the first tested in the darkness, and the first to fail, wounded by a unseen fighter who stabbed the large man in the upper thigh with a metal katana. And his anger had intensified when he could no longer sense anyone. What are the others playing? Some kind of mind game?! Well I Kazuma Kuwabara will not give in! I will not call for help! I'll show them what a true man can do! Kuwabara straightened his frame and snatched his hand away from the wound, a bright yellow blade springing to life from his bloodied open palm. With intent strides, Kuwabara marched forward, his strength and pride fueling his adrenaline as he shouted, "Come on you freak, stop hiding like a baby in this mist and face me like a man!"

The dark fog began to swirl behind Kuwabara, revealing a rather imposing figure shrouded in black, a gleaming katana resting within his massive right palm. The figure brought his arm up slowly, no sound emitted from his actions as he lifted the katana high above him, preparing to strike the unaware detective with one powerful blow.

Kuwabara frowned as he sensed someone rushing towards him, his eyes widening as the compact frame of Hiei burst out of the fog, vaulting over him, his katana outstretched and his red orbs ablaze with determination. The orange haired teen whirled around letting out a gasp as he stumbled backwards, his features twisting into a look of shock as he witnessed Hiei block the downward sweep of his opponent's blade, the impact forcing the small demon's feet and legs into the ground.

Hiei grit his teeth as he absorbed the force of the blow, increasing his energy to push the blade up and over to the side before jumping out of his earthen prison. Within an instant, the dark haired apparition began attacking the man in black, his slashes and thrusts fast and furious, allowing his opponent no time to launch a counter offensive. Or so he thought. For suddenly another blade came rocketing downward from behind the fire demon who sensed it at the last possible second, diving right to avoid being struck down.

Hiei recovered quickly, jumping to his feet, turning to face this new challenge only to look on in shock as the two opponents suddenly became 10. These new shinobi stood before him, an arsenal of weapons at the ready. Oh shit! The fire demon snarled mentally as he jumped high in the air, avoiding the first wave of shuriken tossed his way, twisting like a cat in mid air to avoid another series of stars before landing on his feet just off to the side of the group of attackers. He had no time to rest however as two ninjas armed with katanas lunged at him simultaneously.

The fire demon blocked the first, forcing the blade to his left while dodging the other's forward thrust, bending backwards and to the side to avoid the lethal blade, the powerful rush of air and the closeness of the sharpened steel to his neck causing him to growl in frustration. Hurry up fox! He snarled mentally as he backpedaled away from his opponents who made ready to attack again.

As if hearing the fire demon's call, a series of green plants burst out from below the two shinobi, snaking rapidly around their legs and then their arms until they were completely immobile.

Hiei smirked as the shinobi were yanked downward and through the ground violently, creating a medium sized crater as they disappearing out of sight. Two down, eight to go. He thought, turning his gaze to the left as the tall, imposing form of Youko appeared beside him. "It's about time you showed up." The fire demon said in mock annoyance.

Youko smiled. "I was delayed." The fox spirit said calmly, pointing to someone on his left, releasing his hold from the back of the man's blue uniform jacket.

Hiei looked in the direction of the fox's clawed finger and frowned, glaring at the strangely silent form of his sister's boyfriend. "Why didn't you let the orange haired buffoon fend for himself?"

Kuwabara shifted his gaze instantly over to Hiei, his features dark, "Cut me some slack shorty! I can't help it if I'm not used to dealing with freaks dressed up like ninjas!" He snarled, letting out a yelp as a few shuriken whizzed past, barely missing his head. "Where the hell is Urameshi anyway?! This was his stupid idea!"

"Right behind you doofus!"

Kuwabara jumped then whirled around to face his best friend. "Do you always have to sneak up behind me?!" He snarled, momentarily forgetting the fact that in his current form, Yusuke could kill the taller man with one blow.

Yusuke, though now in his S form, still retained his smart ass nature as he shot back, "Do you always have to ask stupid questions?"

Kuwabara frowned. "Are you calling me stupid Urameshi?"

"Uh ... Duh!" Yusuke replied, smirking at the irritation twisting upon his friend's countenance only to darken his features as he sensed the shinobi retreat back into the shadows of the dark mist. What is going on? Why aren't they attacking? He wondered.

In answer, the ground began to quake violently. Seconds later, four large vines burst upward, snaking out and striking viciously at the detectives, an arc of blood erupting from the wounds inflicted upon the four men's chests. Kuwabara was knocked backward by the blow but was caught by Yusuke who had quickly recovered from the sneak attack. Hiei was forced several feet backwards, skid marks scarring the already ruined landscape while Youko stopped a short distance to the left of the fire demon.

But before the fox spirit had time to recover, the plants all converged upon him, wrapping around his wrists and then his arms. The plants disobeyed Youko's command to release him, instead yanking him forward at lightning speed, slamming him into the ground and dragging him face first along the terrain and into the hole created by the fox demon's earlier attack before anyone could lift a finger to help.

"Kurama!" Yusuke cried, rushing towards the hole, Kuwabara close behind. Hiei joined up with them, the three men peering down into the darkness, hoping for some sign of the kitsune's presence.

It didn't take long.

The ground began to quake once again, the three detectives jumping several feet backwards, Yusuke and Hiei creating energy barriers to protect themselves from the massive build up of energy. Kuwabara tucked himself safely behind his best friend as the energy was violently unleashed , the ground exploding in projectiles of dirt, grass and rock that flew off in all directions. A lone form zoomed upright out of the newly made crater, landing before the confused Yusuke and Kuwabara.

"Kurama?" The detective murmured, his features darkened at the state of his friend.

The kitsune had reverted back to his human self, but was the worse for wear. Blood oozed down from his forehead and along both sides of his face from numerous scrapes occurred while being dragged. His lips were split open and his clothing was torn, lashes from the plants that had just attacked him evident upon the exposed portions of skin through the tattered material of his blue jeans and black, long sleeve shirt. His breathing was labored as he shifted his gaze over to Urameshi. "I'm fine ... Yusuke ... " He replied in between breaths as he closed his eyes and willed his breathing back to normal.

But the pain and the fatigue was not lost on the detective. Whatever had happened underground must have been pretty damn intense. Yusuke thought as he, along with Hiei and Kuwabara made their way to Kurama's side. "So what the hell just happened? I thought Kurama was the only one who could control plants." He asked, focusing his gaze down on the crater spread out before his feet.

"Shinobi can also mimic the attacks of their foes." Hiei explained as he fixed his gaze down at the hole. "Kurama used plants to subdue two of the ninja who survived his attack and in turn used it on us."

Yusuke frowned, turning his gaze over to the fire demon. "Why the hell did you let them learn that?" He asked only to shift his eyes to Kurama who answered.

"It was my idea." Kurama said softly but before he could give an explanation, a series of shuriken and throwing knives rocket just past their heads, signaling the shinobi's renewed efforts to attack them.

Hiei stepped forward, his features smug and determined as he spoke, "You need to back away. I will handle the rest of these scum."

Kurama frowned, knowing what the fire demon was up to. "Do you really think that wise Hiei? Unleashing the dragon in such a confined space? I'm not sure the barriers will be able to contain it."

Hiei smirked, crooking his right forearm upright, the power he felt building against the bonds that held the dragon at bay, the dark power crying for release. "I know what I'm doing Kurama." He answered gruffly as his Jagan eye began to flare to life, obliterating the head band from his forehead. "Just make sure the moron doesn't get too close, the dragon knows how I feel about him."

Kurama's frown deepened but said nothing as he turned, his attuned vision cutting through the fog and noting in satisfaction that Yusuke had removed himself and Kuwabara to the outer fringe of the barrier, safe from the build up of power Hiei was exhibiting. Though the kitsune's legs felt shaky and ready to give out from the intense physical assault from his own plants and the two shinobi's he attacked earlier, Kurama heeded the fire apparition's warning. He moved far away from his best friend, his emerald orbs transfixed on the numerous streaks of orange and black that sprouted out from Hiei's arm, dragon heads developing at the tips, their screeches filling the darkened air as they quickly sought out their targets. I only hope the barrier holds. Kurama thought as the ground began to quake and the fog suddenly became aflame with a hellish orange-white light.

******

Genkai sat in the center of the main room of her temple, her brown eyes fixed upon the pretty faces of Keiko and Botan who sat in front of her. The female psychic reached out to the tea cup in front of her, drawing it up to her lips, taking a small sip before lowering it down into her other hand. "As always you are welcome here, but I am curious why you have come to visit me today?"

The two women looked at each other briefly as if deciding who would go first. At last, Keiko took the initiative and spoke.

"Well, Genkai. I've been worried over Yusuke these past few days." The brown haired human began, resting her hands into her lap. "Ever since he started this new training, it seems he has no energy to do his homework. And I was wondering if this is really the best thing for him right now?"

Genkai smirked. "Is that it Keiko? Or is it something else he doesn't have the energy for that is really bothering you?"

Keiko blushed, lowering her gaze to the ground. "No." She said a little too quickly then changed her answer. "I mean. Yes. But not like you think Genkai." She began to explain. "We were sitting on his couch cuddling while watching a movie and I felt him lean towards me and rest his head upon my shoulder and ... " She paused, her voice trailing off as she continued to focus her eyes downward.

"And?" Genkai said, studying the young woman questioningly.

"And when I turned towards him, he was asleep!"

Botan and Yukina, who was seated to Genkai's right, both let out a small chuckle while the female psychic's features grew amused.

"I see." Genkai said in a slightly teasing voice. "I sympathize my dear but it is not uncommon for men to do things like that. And knowing my student, it doesn't surprise me in the least." She replied before turning to Botan who still wore a smile on her face. "Am I to suppose you're here for a different reason than Keiko's?"

"Well, I've had Kurama pass out on me before although the circumstances were different than Keiko's." Botan replied, turning her gaze to the left as Keiko spoke.

"Oh come on Botan. Don't tell me you haven't cuddled or kissed Kurama." The brown haired woman said in a slightly teasing tone. "I know you have. So tell me, how was it?"

Botan blushed but smiled devilishly. "Keiko! What would Yusuke say if he heard you just now?" She admonished her friend playfully.

Keiko smiled back, her voice conspiratorial as she answered, "Well, he's not here now so what he doesn't know won't hurt him."

The two women giggled, Yukina joining in while Genkai just smirked.

"Seriously though," Botan said, straightening her frame. "I finished my shift early today and went to visit Keiko for some clothing advice when she mentioned coming to see you and to check up on the boys. Of course I couldn't pass up the opportunity of seeing Kurama so we decided to come here."

"Then I take it, Yusuke and Kurama have no idea you're here waiting for them."

Both girls nodded.

Genkai raised an eyebrow as another thought entered her consciousness. "And this was all brought about because you needed clothing advice?" She asked, looking between the two women.

Botan smiled shyly as she answered. "Well, Kurama is taking me out on a date tomorrow and since I've never done that kind of thing before, I thought it best to ask someone who would know more about that."

Genkai's features softened slightly. Memories of her youth returning briefly to her consciousness before she shook her head and pushed the thoughts aside. Her one love had betrayed her long ago, and in that betrayal had broken her heart. Toguro. She thought sadly, frowning at her sentimental lapse in consciousness.

"Genkai are you all right?" Yukina asked softly, reaching out to tap the older woman's shoulder.

Genkai turned to her and gave her a small nod, her features neutral once more. "I'm fine Yukina, just a little headache that's all." She answered evenly, only to snap her head to her left, her eyes narrowing as she felt a great increase in spiritual energy.

Botan and Yukina felt it as well, there gazes mimicking the older woman's as they stared distantly off into space.

Keiko looked at her friends in confusion. "What is it you guys?" She asked, eyeing them expectantly.

Just then a series of rumbles reached everyone's ears, a noise like distant thunder, though not a cloud appeared in the sky outside the open doorway.

Genkai's features grew serious as she closed her eyes and concentrated. So, they're starting to get serious. Good. She thought, opening her eyes as she sensed the rise in anxiety from Botan. The female psychic understood her fear. After all, she was well aware that Kurama had cut off his emotional connection with the deity to avoid causing her pain. But not knowing is worse. Genkai countered in her mind as she parted her lips and spoke. "Kurama and the others are fine Botan." She gave answer to the deity's sudden doubt. "They'll be arriving shortly, so relax."

How can I relax when I can't sense him. Botan retorted mentally, her gaze lingering to the open doorway while she waited for her beloved to return.

Five minutes passed. Then ten. After fifteen minutes, Botan could stand the silence no more and rose up.

"Botan, where are you going?" Keiko asked, rising from her seat as well, her brown orbs fixed in concern upon the retreating form of the deity.

"I'm going to go look for them." Botan replied over her shoulder as she slipped on her shoes and exited the temple.

"Wait for me." Keiko called out, grabbing her shoes before chasing after her friend.

Yukina watched them go, her features tightened with worry as she shifted her gaze over to Genkai who sat with her arms crossed and her eyes closed.

"It is all right Yukina," Genkai said softly. "You may follow them if you wish."

Yukina smiled happily, jumping to her feet and running out the temple to join the other two women outside. She didn't have far to go however as she turned the corner of the porch and nearly collided into the back of Keiko and Botan who stood rigidly before her. What is going on? She wondered only to widen her eyes as she heard Kuwabara's voice carry upon the wind.

"Will you let go of me Urameshi! I told you I could walk the rest of the way!"

"Not with your leg bleeding like a stuck pig you can't stupid!" Yusuke retorted angrily.

"I could fix that for you Kuwabara." Kurama offered in his usual soft spoken voice.

"Why don't you fix the moron's brain while you're at it Kurama." Hiei said in a disdainful tone that instantly ticked off Kuwabara.

"I'll show you who's a moron you little pip-squeak!"

Hiei was about to reply when he suddenly felt his sister's presence. He ignored the tall man's rant, his red orbs focusing away from the others towards the porch.

The rest of the men soon followed, their eyes widening at the sight of Botan, Keiko and Yukina walking briskly towards them.

Botan frowned at the condition the detectives where in. All four men were covered in soot, their clothing tattered and their chests bleeding from whatever had attacked them. Kuwabara was leaning heavily against Yusuke who supported his weight with his right arm wrapped around the orange haired man's waist while the larger man's left arm was draped over his shoulders. Blood flowed endlessly out of the deep cut in Kuwabara's right leg and the deity at last understood the tall man's outburst. Botan's gazed shifted over to Kurama, her features tightening in pain as she took in his condition.

His face.

His beautiful face was covered in dirt and blood, scrapes evident all along his once perfect flesh. Her eyes moved slowly downward, noting the tattered state his clothing was in. Oh Kurama what happened to you? She wondered as she made her way towards him while Keiko marched over towards Yusuke and Yukina rushed past the two women in the direction of Kuwabara.

"Kazuma!" Yukina cried, unable to hold back her voice any longer.

The tall man's once defiant features instantly twisted into a look of anguish as she approached. "Yukina my love!" He cried back, moving out of Yusuke's hold to embrace his girlfriend who ran into his arms and hugged him fiercely.

"You've been hurt!" The ice maiden muffled into the big man's ruined blue uniform jacket.

Kuwabara sighed dramatically. "But with you by my side I will be well again my love." He said melodramatically.

Yusuke rolled his eyes at his best friend's behavior while Hiei just glared, not taking too kindly to the open display of affection his sister was lavishing on Kuwabara.

"Come inside and I'll help you." She whispered, pulling away from Kuwabara, wrapping her slender left arm around the large man's waist, her small body supporting his larger frame as she led a surprised Kuwabara forward.

"You're pretty strong for a girl, Yukina." The big man murmured, making Yukina giggle as she helped him onto the porch and into the first room they reached.

"Yusuke!" Keiko called out, her features full of irritation as she stopped in front of her boyfriend.

The detective shifted his gaze over to the brown haired girl, a smirk upon his lips. "Hey Keiko what's up?" He said nonchalantly, as if their latest training session had been no big deal.

"Do you realize you're way behind in your studies?" Keiko said in an aggravated voice, crossing her arms as she studied her boyfriend with narrowed eyes. "You have tons of homework to work on Yusuke."

Yusuke blew off her lecture with a wave of his hand. "Get off my back will ya, I'll do it when I feel like it."

"Oh really," The brown haired woman said in a deceptively even tone before snaking her hand out to grab Yusuke by the ear. "Lets go you slacker!" She growled, dragging Yusuke with her as she turned around.

"Dammit Keiko let go of my ear!" Yusuke growled back but didn't struggle as the two lovers made there way to the temple steps straight ahead, leaving Kurama, Botan and Hiei the only people on the courtyard grounds.

Botan closed the distance between her and the kitsune, her pained amethyst orbs never leaving the tender emerald ones of Kurama who watched her approach. There were no questions in his eyes, or his features, just the joy of seeing her again. It warmed the deity to the depths of her soul, even as she knew he was in pain. Stopping before her beloved, the deity spoke. "What happened out there today Kurama?" She asked, reaching out to gently caress the wounds along the sides of his face, a white light bursting from her fingertips as she began to heal the damage.

Kurama held still, his eyes half lidded from the deity's touch upon his torn skin. "Hiei decided to test his black dragon wave. Needless to say the rest of us were a little too close." He began, a smile twisting his lips as he heard the fire demon inside his head.

Sure, blame your condition on me. He sent with an inward snort. Why don't you tell her what really happened?

I will Hiei. Later. Kurama sent back.

Hn. Whatever. Hiei retorted telepathically. I'm heading back to Mukuro's and away from all this sickening lovey dovey stuff.

You just want to cuddle with Mukuro. Kurama teased his best friend, his smile widening into a smirk at the fire demon's sudden silence.

Stupid fox! Hiei grumbled telepathically a few seconds later before disappearing from the courtyard so that only Kurama and Botan remained.

Several minutes passed in silence while the deity continued to heal the kitsune's cuts. At last Botan finished, lowering her hands away from Kurama's now healed face though it was still streaked in dirt and grime. "All better." She said with a gentle smile that Kurama mirrored.

"Thank you." He said softly, opening his eyes once more so that he now gazed upon his beloved's face.

"Don't mention it." The deity replied, casting her eyes downward. A slight frown crossed her features as she studied the torn and dirty remnants of his clothing. "Why don't we go inside and get you cleaned up." She said softly.

Kurama looked down at the condition of his clothing, his features twisting in mild surprise as if he had just noticed how filthy he really was. "I suppose I should wash up." He conceded, tilting his gaze upright as he felt Botan clasp his right hand with her left one.

"Then it's settled." The deity said with a small laugh as she began to pull him forward only to stop as Kurama held his place.

"Kurama?" Botan whispered as she turned around to face the kitsune, a puzzled expression gracing her beautiful countenance. "Is something wrong?"

Kurama swallowed the lump in his throat at the way the deity held onto his hand, the warmth of her touch bringing his emotions out to the forefront. He wanted to speak to her about a few things. Alone and in a more private setting then Genkai's. A sudden idea sprouted into his head and with a sly smile, the kitsune pulled Botan gently towards him. "I know a better place to clean up. Follow me." He said softly as he began to walk back towards the gate that led to the woods surrounding Genkai's temple.

Botan looked at Kurama in confusion but complied, following him into the densely packed foliage of conifers and maples for a long period of time. Silence reigned between the pair, although they remained holding hands, the sure footed kitsune leading the cautious deity over a few slippery spots until at last, conifers gave way to bamboo trees. A familar roaring sound met her ears.

She knew that sound.

The smell of damp earth and rock confirmed her suspicions as the pair at last came upon a sandy clearing, revealing a small lake as clear and blue as the sky above them. A heavy mist hovering near the far edge where a waterfall continually crashed against the larger rock formations along the lake's base. "I didn't know Genkai had a lake on her property." The deity murmured as her awestruck eyes took in the surrounding vegetation and water,. "How did you find it?"

"While we were preparing for our final attack on Yakumo two years ago." Kurama replied softly, leading the deity over to a clump of trees near the water's edge where a small strip of land afforded them footing. The red head frowned as he sensed the deity's sudden distress. He knew the source of her emotional shift and instantly regretted what he had said. "I'm sorry." He whispered softly as he let go of Botan's hand and turned around to face his mate. "I shouldn't of mentioned that man's name. I .. "

Botan reached out and rested her index finger upon the surprised kitsune's lips. "It's all right." She replied with a small shake of her head. "It's not your fault that I was hurt by him." She added in a whisper as she closed the gap between them, wrapping her arms around Kurama's waist, ignoring the dirt and the blood upon his ruined shirt. "In fact you saved me Kurama. I don't regret that time anymore because that's when I knew I loved you."

A pained look flashed across the kitsune's face as he returned Botan's affection, wrapping his arms protectively around her, hugging her close against him as he rested his chin upon her head. "But I failed you that time Botan. I wasn't strong enough to protect you from him." He replied in a strained voice, the guilt of his inability to save the deity playing off his doubt about what was going on around them.

"But you came for me." Botan countered, her voice muffled slightly as she spoke against the material of Kurama's shirt. She could feel his guilt and wanted to ease his pain. "I remember you holding onto me while Yusuke fought with Yakumo. I remembered you shielding me with your own body when that monster unleashed his attacks. I remember all that Kurama," She paused, pulling back slightly to look up into the kitsune's saddened eyes. "So please stop blaming yourself. Let the past remain in the past. Okay?"

A tender smile lit up Kurama's countenance as he leaned down and gently kissed the deity upon the forehead. "Okay." He whispered, pulling slowly away as he shifted his gaze over to the water. "I guess I should rinse this dirt off now." He added as he began to unbutton his shirt, a chuckle escaping his lips as Botan suddenly blushed and whirled around. "It's okay Botan, I'm just taking off my shirt." He said in a slightly teasing tone.

Botan let out a nervous chuckle but didn't turn around. "I .. uh .. knew that Kurama. It's just I don't want to ogle .. " She paused, wincing at her Freudian slip " I mean I don't want to make you feel ... Oh hell ..." She stammered, frowning at how silly she sounded. No wonder everyone else thinks I'm a bubble head. She berated herself. I can't even deal with Kurama when he's half dressed. How am I ever going to ... Her thoughts trailed off , her blush deepening as she realized what would eventually happen between them. I must stop thinking like this! She growled mentally, shaking her head at her lustful thoughts. We're not even married! She added, a wistful smile tugging at her lips. What would it be like? To walk down the aisle, with all her friends watching her. To stand with the man she loved and commit her heart and soul to him and he to her. Well, she countered. We're already bonded at the soul but still... Another thought came to her mind, a thought that caused her to bite her lip and her brow to furrow. Did Kurama want the same thing she did? Did he want to marry her?

A sudden splashing noise brought the deity to the present causing her to turn around, her eyes widening at the sight of the kitsune waist deep in water, his hands quickly wiping off the dirt stuck upon his perfect skin, seemingly oblivious to her intense stare as the water trickled down his toned chest and arms. Did he have any idea how torturous this was for her? He's probably doing this just to torment me. She growled mentally, though her growing desire was soon overrode by concern as she studied the deep gashes along his stomach and sides. She watched as Kurama turned towards her, a playful smile on his lips as he walked back towards the shore, surprising the deity as he made a quick swipe into the water, the arc barely missing Botan who let out a yelp and leaped backwards. "Kurama!" She shouted indignantly as the kitsune cleared the water at last, his jeans sticking tightly to his legs as he walked over to her side.

"Sorry." The kitsune said through his chuckle, reaching up to brush the water out of his face. "I just thought I'd cool you down." He added with a smirk that made Botan narrow her eyes.

Of course he would know how I was feeling! She snapped at herself. "Ha, ha. Very funny. And after all those nice things I said about you!" She said in annoyance as she turned away from him.

Kurama dropped his smirk, his features growing serious as he walked over to the clump of bamboo trees and sat down. Letting out a sigh, the kitsune rested his head against the thin trunks, his emerald orbs focused on the back of the deity. "Botan," He started, pausing to make sure the ferry girl was listening. And though she had yet to turn around, he could tell she was paying attention. "The reason I brought you out here wasn't to tease you. I wanted to talk to you about tomorrow."

Botan whirled around to face him, a worried look emerging on her features as she spoke, "Are you changing your mind about our date?" She asked in a frightened whisper, her mind swirling with a sudden, irrational fear that Kurama didn't want to spend time with her.

Kurama shook his head. "Of course not Botan. Nothing in the world is more important to me than you." He replied, giving her a loving smile as he continued. "It's just that I have a full day planned for us and I need to know if it's too much. I don't want to wear you out before dinner." He said with a unsure smile.

Botan held back a chuckle, tickled by his sudden nervousness. Whoever thought the calm and level headed Kurama could suffer from anxiety? Botan thought as she walked over to him, lowering herself beside him. With a loving smile she snuggled next to him, resting her head on his bare shoulder, surprised at the warmth that radiated off him. "I told you I don't care Kurama. Wherever you want to go is fine with me." She said softly.

"Still I want to know your thoughts." Kurama replied and proceeded to tell her his plan.

When he had finished, Botan couldn't help but smile. "You put a lot of effort into this didn't you?" She murmured, her smile widening as Kurama rested his head against hers.

"Is it too much?" He asked, closing his eyes as he wrapped his arm around the deity, pulling her closer to him.

"I think it's perfect." She replied, bringing her gaze upright so that her eyes met the kitsune's. "I think you're perfect." She added, before reaching up to caress the right side of his face. Kurama smiled and mimicked her motion before leaning down to press his lips gently against hers. He broke this kiss off sooner than the deity expected, a small pout forming on her face as Kurama pulled away.

"I think we should be going." He said as he cast his gaze over the darkening landscape.

Botan sighed but nodded, rising to her feet, Kurama after her.

The red head made a move for his shirt only to stop as Botan spoke.

"Wait." She whispered, walking over to the puzzled kitsune. With a gentle motion, the deity reached out and traced the wounds along her boyfriend's chest and sides, white light illuminating his exposed flesh as she worked.

Kurama held still, letting the deity heal him.

"Let me see your wrists Kurama." She said in a soft tone.

The kitsune complied, holding up his hands, smiling at the serious expression on the deity's face.

"How did you get these marks?" She asked in a curious tone, her gaze remained focused on the raised red welts that twisted into his forearms in a circular pattern.

Kurama said nothing at first, his features calm as he closed off his heart from her, not wanting her to feel the concern that plagued him. "Just an experiment on the training field." He voiced at last, his features relaxing as he watched the deity work, her touch gentle and loving as she traced the pattern of his wounds, the skin mending, healed once more.

"What kind of experiment?" She asked absently, so intent on his wounds she failed to notice the kitsune's features tightening in silence.

Should I tell her? He wondered as he continued to stare at her. Kurama let out a sigh, though his features grew neutral as he answered, "I was testing to see if plants used by my enemies would obey me. Needless to say, they did not."

Botan frowned, raising her head to gaze into his forced calm eyes. "That doesn't sound good." She answered, lowering her hands away from his now healed forearms.

Kurama brought his arms back to his sides. "It is not but I will figure out a way around it." He answered in a reassuring tone. "Thank you again." Kurama added with a tender smile, turning his gaze away from her still concerned one.

"You're welcome." She replied softly watching her beloved as he bent down to retrieve his shirt that lay upon a few small rocks near the edge of the lake.

Kurama slung the shirt over his shoulder, sliding his arms inside in one smooth motion before buttoning it up. Moving a few feet forward, the kitsune bent down, reaching out to clasp his socks and shoes sliding them on in prospective order before turning back to his deity

Kurama held out his hand. "My lady." He said with a happy smile that the ferry girl mirrored.

Botan took his proffered hand, entwining her fingers with his own as the two started back the way they had come, walking side by side in companionable silence until at last they returned to Genkai's.

"I'll see you at around noon then?" Kurama asked a few minutes later as he walked down the temple steps that led to the area his motorcycle was parked, the navy pea coat he left at the female psychic's temple before going off to train now wrapped snugly around his lean frame.

Botan nodded. "I look forward to it." The deity replied as they cleared the last of the steps, leaning forward to give the kitsune a quick peck on the lips before backing away and materializing her oar. She gave her mate a wave of her hand before setting off into the evening sky, heading for Reikai.

Kurama returned her wave, watching her progress until she disappeared completely from view. Tomorrow. He thought with a happy smile as he walked over to his bike. Tomorrow was the day he would ask her. The day he hoped she would never forget. Kurama hopped onto his bike and turned the ignition switch, kick starting the motorcycle and revving up a few times before roaring off, heading not back to his apartment but rather to the Kurigai Botanical Gardens where his present awaited the deity. I only hope she likes it. He thought as he rounded a corner out of sight from a pair of glowing red eyes that had watched the detectives train and had followed the kitsune and the deity into the woods, over hearing the entirety of their conversation. Interesting. Very interesting indeed. The creature thought, a cold smile upon his lips. The eyes blinked once and then were gone, a whoosh of noise the only evidence of his presence before the dust settled and all was quiet once again.

Okay. I know I promised you the date and I do have it completed, I'm just agonizing over a certain situation that I don't know if I should use. What that may be I can't tell you, it would spoil the surprise. Your more than welcome to guess what it is. I will post it as soon as I can. If, when you read part two, you find it doesn't sit right with you, I will modify the chapter and retry the idea at a later date. So lads and lasses, the sooner you leave me a review, the sooner I'll post the next chapter. Remember, Sessha loves reviews! ^__^