Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Battle of Beasts ( Chapter 4 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Another update and a very, very long one. Sorry, I got carried away! Hope you enjoy it!

Chapter 4-Battle of Beasts

Darkness still held sway over the land when Kurama awoke. He slid out of his sleeping bag, rising and stretching, casting his gaze over towards his bed, eyes falling on the sleeping form of Botan, smiling softly at the sight of her cuddled into the blanket. He moved quietly, not wanting to disturb her rest, rolling up the sleeping bag, tying it expertly and he carried it over to his closet, sliding the door to the side to store it. He then opened his underwear drawer, pulling out a pair of black boxer briefs then moved to a different drawer, removing a pair of black socks and he headed into the bathroom. He turned on the shower faucet, undressing and pulled the curtain back, stepping inside, letting the warm water run down over him as he began to wash his body and his hair.

Once finished, he stepped out, wrapping a towel around his waist, wiping the steam from the bathroom mirror, checking his features to make sure he didn't have any stubble to shave then brushed his teeth, dressing in the school uniform hanging on the back of the door. Opening the door, he stepped out,walking over to his desk where the girl's clothing lay and he scooped them up, laying them in the bathroom before moving over to the bed. He sat down on the edge and leaned forward, reaching out, laying his hand on the ferry girl's shoulder, gently shaking it as he whispered, “Botan, time to get up.”

“Mmph...” The deity mumbled in protest, burying her head deeper into the pillow. “Don't wanna...”

Kurama chuckled at her reaction, shaking her shoulder again, leaning in close to her ear, voice lower, more insistent, “I'm afraid you must... I have to leave for school and you have to go inform Yusuke of his mission.”

Her lips turned to a pout, eyes still closed. “But it's so nice and warm... can't I have a few more minutes?”

He found her pout cute as he whispered, “If it were up to me, I'd let you sleep all day, but I don't think Koenma would approve of you sleeping in the bed of a criminal.”

“Huh?” She murmured, eyelids fluttering open, vision clearing, finding the features of an amused Kurama staring down at her. His face was so close to hers that she could see his eyelashes and she gasped, realizing where she was and she bolted upright without warning, her head slamming full force into his, knocking the kitsune off the bed.

“Ow!” Botan whimpered, clutching her forehead.

Kurama winced, rising to his feet, clutching his forehead, surprised at the pain that radiated in his head. “You have quite a hard skull, Botan. Perhaps you should simply head butt the infected people to knock them out.”

The deity lowered her hand, pouting. “Hey... That's not very nice! I can't help it that you surprised me! And what about you, mister?! My forehead really hurts!”

He looked over, frowning at the red bump on her forehead and he reached out, carefully touching the injury, sending power through his fingers, the red mark disappearing, skin returning to it's normal hue and Botan blinked, watching as the kitsune withdrew his hand.

“Th... Thank you...” She stammered, her gaze on the red head as he spoke.

“You're welcome.” He replied with a smile, his features shifting, becoming more business-like. “Now then, your clothes are in the bathroom, ready for you to change into but if you would like to take a shower first, you are more than welcome.”

She tossed the blanket off her body, sliding her bare legs over the side of the bed, rising as she stretched. “I suppose I should. I promise to be quick.”

“I'll wait for you.”

“You don't have to, Kurama. I don't want you to be late for school.”

“Well... more than likely I won't be in school for long, given the mission we have to preform.”

“Oh... right...” She murmured, brow furrowed at her slow to wake up brain. “Okay... give me just a few moments and I'll be ready to go.” She entered the bathroom, closing the door. She was surprised to find not only her clothes waiting for her but a folded towel and wash cloth as well. You are quite the gentleman aren't you, Kurama? She thought, undressing before she started the shower. Stepping inside, she leaned forward, the warm water rather soothing and she looked around for some soap, finding a rather large blue bar and she lifted it, inhaling the scent, an image of woods and water springing in her mind and her brow furrowed.

It was a lovely scent for a man but not so much for a lady. Well duh, Botan... He may be a pretty boy but that doesn't mean he uses girly products. She chided herself and with a shake of her head she lathered the washcloth, scrubbing her skin quickly, leaving her hair alone as she rinsed off and turned off the water. Stepping out, she wrapped the towel around her body, digging into the pocket of her jeans, drawing out a hair tie, putting her hair into a ponytail, her bangs hanging around her forehead as she dried her skin and dressed quickly, finding a small white hamper in the corner and she tossed the clothes he let her wear into it before exiting the bathroom.

Kurama remained seated at his desk, patiently waiting for the ferry girl and he turned his head as he heard the door open. He watched Botan step out, his sensitive nose picking up the smell of his soap on her and for some reason he found it... pleasing... to know his scent was on her. Stop that. He chided himself, sliding the chair back as he rose addressing her in a polite manner. “Ready to go?”

Botan nodded, features thoughtful. “For the most part. I just need to figure out something to use to defend myself when I begin tracking down the spies and bugs from Makai.”

“Something to defend yourself...” He murmured, going over to his closet.

The deity watched the red head forage through the closet, curious as to what he was doing, surprised when he pulled back, an aluminum bat the color of silver in his hand.

Kurama handed the bat to her, voice soft. “Take this. It will be rather effective in knocking out your targets.”

Botan took the outstretched bat carefully, lifting her gaze as the kitsune spoke in concerned tones.

“If they grab you, Botan, it's over, so make sure to hit them hard and fast. Quick strikes to the head are very effective at knocking people out, no matter what form they take.”

“Thank you, Kurama. I promise to return the bat to you when this is all over.”

“Your safety is all I care about, Botan, so don't worry about returning it to me.”

She smiled, grateful for his help and concern. “I understand.”

Kurama walked over to the window, opening it for her, helping the deity up and out of the window, watching as she materialized an oar then slid sideways onto it. “I will see you when this is all over, Botan. Promise me you'll be careful.”

The ferry girl heard the worry in his voice and it made her feel suddenly shy but she nodded. “I promise. You be careful as well, Kurama.”

“I will,” He replied with confidence. “Goodbye and good luck, Botan.”

“Goodbye and good luck, Kurama.” She returned as she floated up into the sky.

Kurama watched as she flew carefully towards the city, regret filling him. That the ferry girl had to deal with violent humans all on her own irritated him. What kind of ruler sends a non-fighter out on such a dangerous mission? He shook his head, frowning at his predicament. No matter how much I disagree with leaving Botan alone in Ningenkai to deal with the human threat, I am in no position to protest. If I don't assist Yusuke on this mission my record will never be cleared. Still, if they made it through this assignment, he was going to have a talk with Koenma, whether it resulted in him remaining a criminal or not.

Closing the window, the red head turned, grabbing his book bag, sliding it over his shoulder as he headed down the stairs. He entered the kitchen, preparing the coffee maker for his mother, setting the timer, grabbing one of the bento boxes his mother always made for him for his lunch and headed out, making his way towards school, wondering when he would be summoned to begin the infiltration into Makai.

Botan, for her part, made her way into the city, landing in an alleyway, dematerializing her oar before straightening her jacket. The deity walked out onto the sidewalk, her eyes straight ahead though her senses were open, searching out any trace of youkai energy. The light of dawn had wrested control from the dark, the sun now shining brightly and the ferry girl smiled at the warmth. Her smile fell as she sensed someone stalking her and she continued walking at a normal pace, rounding the corner and into an alleyway, lowering the bat to her side, whirling around quickly, swinging with all the force she could manage, the bat cracking the side of a tall teenage boy's head.

He gasped, red eyes rolling up in the back of his head, crashing into the ground and she hovered over him, watching as the blue tone of his skin faded, an insect crawling out of his open mouth and she reached into her inside coat pocket, yanking out a yellow canister marked Makai insect spray and she pushed down the actuator, a clear fluid shooting out, hitting the flying green hued creature which writhed in pain, vanishing as it was destroyed and the deity's features remained grim as she straightened her frame, sliding the canister back into her coat. One down, only thousands more to go. She thought with a sigh. I really should inform Yusuke. But the threat was accelerating faster than she anticipated. What if innocent people were harmed while she was flying around looking for the detective? If I can find the spies, I might be able to nip some of the violence before Yusuke arrives. Besides, hunting them down will lead me straight to the detective anyway. She reasoned, resolve filling her as she headed back out, seeking out her targets as she made her way towards Yusuke's side of town.

By the time the sky was high in the sky, the ferry girl had tracked down three spies and she carefully followed a forth, rolling her eyes at the sight of the creature lurking around in a beige trench coat and matching hat. Looks like some kind of perverted stalker reject. She thought with a shake of her head and she closed in silently, frowning at how intently her target seemed to be watching something around the corner. Botan felt a familiar ki and she reasoned out why. Yusuke is nearby. As are a lot of infected humans. Her features grew serious and she readied her bat for another swing, chasing after the spy as he took off, conking him on the back of the head, sending him crashing down, his body sprawled out, unconscious and she hovered over him, turning her head at the sight of Yusuke and his tall friend, Kuwabara, approaching her.

“Botan!” Yusuke exclaimed, surprised to see the deity holding a bat.

“Hey, it's the pretty lady from last time!” Kuwabara murmured, staring at the blue haired girl in admiration. “Have you thought about me?”

The deity sighed inwardly, ignoring the street fighter's comments, focusing her attention on Yusuke when he asked,

“So do you know who this guy is?”

“Yes. He's one of the spies from the place you'll be going to on your next mission.”

Yusuke tossed an agitated look at the ferry girl, growling out, “You can stop with that talk right now. I just got back from the hell that is grandma's training and I deserve a freaking vacation from all this Spirit World crap! Call back again in two years and maybe then I'll help you.”

Botan glared at Yusuke as he stalked away. “I suppose you're fine then with the entire city being turned into violent zombie killers?”

The detective turned his head, looking over his shoulder. “What is your point?”

Botan kept her gaze firm on the detective as she relayed the circumstances of her being in Ningenkai. “Koenma received a message from a group of youkai known as the Four Saint Beasts. They reside in a place called Maze Castle and they petitioned for access to human world. Naturally we refused their request. So they sent out spies from the city of Ghosts and Apparitions that lies at the base of the castle.” She paused walking back towards the fallen humans Yusuke and Kuwabara knocked out and the detective followed, voice and features curious.

“Don't leave me hanging, Botan. Finish the story.”

“Just watch.” She replied, pointing down at the unconscious teenagers.

The detective kept his gaze focused downward like she requested, features turning to shock and disgust as large green winged bug flew out from the closest human's open mouth.

“Gross... tell me I didn't just see a bug fly out from his throat.” Yusuke murmured in disgust.

Kuwabara looked on, features sick and disturbed at the sight, covering his mouth to hold down the bile that rose up from his throat as the deity explained what the insects were.

“These creatures are nesting insects, a parasite that comes from demon world,” Botan began. “They burrow inside a depressed person's mind, taking over their will, rendering them violent, with a need to kill. If this infestation spreads, it will be catastrophic.”

Yusuke growled. “Can't we just warn people? There's got to be a cure for this thing, right?”

“There is but ordinary people can't see the insects. Those inflicted will be seen as mentally unstable and I'm afraid a cure won't be the first thing on human minds as a method to deal with the plague.”

“Then what the hell are we supposed to do about all this?” Yusuke asked, irritated at the situation.

She heard the anger in the teenage boy's voice and her features remained firm as she focused her attention on him. “The only way to stop this infestation is the kill all the insects and the only way to kill the insects is to destroy the whistle that the Saint Beasts possess.”

Yusuke looked at her in confusion. “A whistle?”

She nodded. “If the whistle is destroyed, the frequency that keeps the insects alive in human world will be broken and they will die off instantly.”

The detective rubbed his chin. “How long do we have before the Saint Beasts enter the human world?”

“They cannot as long as the barrier we put up around them remains.”

Understanding flashed on the detective's features. “Ah... so they'll give you the whistle in exchange for lowering the barrier.”

“Exactly. Koenma has a small breach in place that will allow you to enter their territory.”

“And if I'm unable to beat them?” Yusuke asked.

“ I don't think I have to tell you what would happen if the demons get their way and they are allowed to unleash their power onto the earth.”

Images of destruction and death filled the dark haired boy's mind and he's features grew determined. “Alright... I'll go... but I don't like it... I mean... I'm just one guy.. don't they send out teams or something for this kind of thing?”

“Er... what about me Urameshi?” Kuwabara asked, blinking as Botan waved her hands and made a silly face.

“Oh, Kuwabara... there's no such thing as demons... Yusuke and I were just joking..”

“I'm not stupid or blind,” Kuwabara growled, reaching out to grab on of the flying insects, crushing it in his large hand. “I know what's going on here and I want to help out. I won't let a bunch of demons take over my city! Because I'm Kuwabara and in case you guys forgot, I've got a sword!”

“Eh heh... no arguing with the eager I guess..” Botan replied then waved a hand. “Follow me.”

The two boys walked behind the ferry girl, entering a warehouse, a portal opening on the floor and Botan turned her gaze to the two human boys, instructing them on where they were headed. “This portal will get you within an hour of the target's territory. They radiate strong youkai energy so it should be no trouble tracking down where they are hiding. Make your way there as fast as you can and be careful.”

Both boys nodded and Kuwabara jumped first.

Yusuke watched, voice hopeful. “Hey, maybe Kuwabara will be fine on his own.”

Botan glared at the detective.

The detective noticed her look and he grumbled, “Okay, Okay.. I'll go.. .gee...”

“Not yet! I have to give this first to you,” She took out on of her communicators, handing it to the boy. “We can keep in contact with these.”

“A communication mirror?” He replied in incredulity. “Looks like something Keiko would have,” His voice trailed off. “Oh no!” He exclaimed suddenly and the deity looked up at him in concern.

“What's wrong, Yusuke?”

“Keiko!” He replied, cheeks turning red and a look of fear on his features. “I dumped her off at the movies! She's going to kick my ass!” He turned looking over at the ferry girl, voice hasty as he said, “Uh.. look.. why don't you check up on Keiko for me and I'll go take care of these beast things, okay?”

“What? Hey, wait!” She shouted, watching as the detective jumped into the portal. “I've got to take care of the insects!”

She watched as the boy disappeared, closing the portal as she headed up the stairs. Great. Keiko already wonders about me and Yusuke. What will she think when I have to keep an eye on her? And I should have told him about Kurama and Hiei joining the mission as well. She sighed, closing the door behind her, heading back out into the street, grumbling inwardly. Sometimes I wish I was still a simple grim reaper.

On the other side of town, Kurama sensed a change in the air and his brow furrowed. Normally he would stay after for club activities but when no one contacted him to head into Makai he grew worried. Feigning illness, the red head quickly exited the gate of Meiou High school, determined to track down the deity, wanting to make sure she was alright. He raced by a series of trees, catching a blur of black out of the corner of his eye and he came to a dead stop, calling out, “Spying on me, Hiei?”

The fire demon jumped from a nearby tree, landing onto the sidewalk, facing the taller man, his red eyes full of irritation. “Don't flatter yourself, Kurama,” He began. “It not like I wanted to do this.”

“Do what?” The kitsune asked, though he already knew the answer.

“Go through with this mission. I still have to settle a grudge with the detective but if I take down the Saint Beasts, I can stay out of jail, so I accepted.”

“That must have been a bitter pill for you to swallow, Hiei, agreeing to work along side your enemy.” Kurama replied, smirking in amusement.

Hiei glared up at the kitsune. “I'm still pissed at you for interfering in my fight with the detective so if you know what's good for you, you'll wipe that smirk off your face before I do it for you.”

Kurama quirked an eyebrow, his features a mask of calm, not bothered by the threat, used to the Koorime's blustering. “So I take it your being here is a signal for us to head into Makai?”

“Koenma sent me here to retrieve you since the ferry girl is busy informing the detective of his mission.”

“She has a name you know, Hiei.” Kurama found himself saying as he looked down at his friend.

“Of course she does and I'm sure you know it well, Kurama, given she stayed the night in your room.”

The kitsune's eyes narrowed. “So you were spying on me.”

The fire demon grinned, amused at having angered the fox spirit. “Is this girl similar to the last one you found yourself taking a liking to, Kurama? I hope for her sake she can stay out of trouble during this mission.”

A flash of anger crossed the kitsune's features and he clutched his hand into a fist. The danger was very real for the girl, who was not a fighter, and he worried over her. He glared down at the fire demon then sighed, irritated at being goaded into a response and he relaxed his face and hand, calm once more. “Let's just go and take care of this problem before the infestation spreads in Ningenkai.”

The two youkai raced off, heading towards the portal marked on the directions Botan had given the kitsune and they entered Makai, landing outside a massive forest. The kitsune lifted his gaze, taking in the surroundings, noting the lightning that danced in the reddened sky. “Lovely place.” He murmured dryly, turning his attention towards the direction Hiei pointed to.

“There it is...” The fire demon said, eyes focused on a massive castle that jutted straight up from a rock formation. Buildings spread out below the base of the castle and the Koorime smirked. “It seems that the citizens in the city of Ghosts and Apparitions have awoken to greet two uninvited guests.”

Kurama's features turned grim. “Yusuke...” But who was the other one? He shook his head and raced off, heading for the outskirts of the city, eyes widening at the sight of several small robed monsters attacking the detective and a larger human and he frowned.

“Ghouls... looks like they're trying to make a meal out of the two humans.” Hiei commented, using his greater speed to keep pace with Kurama.

“Yes... and if we don't hurry, they will become the ghouls next meal.”

“Hn...” The Koorime sounded, letting loose his youkai energy, allowing it to be sensed. A warning to all lesser powered beasts.

Kurama did the same, alerting the ghouls to their presence and the pack of them screamed and tore off, abandoning their potential meal, freeing the detective and his friend and the fox spirit came to a stop before the two humans, voice and features even as he spoke. “Looks like you could use a bit of help.”

“If you can't escape from such low level demons, we are going to be in some serious trouble.” Hiei chimed in, coming to stand to Kurama's right.

“Well, well, well... if it isn't the two thieves...”

“Hello.” Kurama greeted.

Yusuke studied the red head in surprise. “What are you guys doing here?”

“Even that fool Koenma knew it would take more than just human power to deal with the Four Saint Beasts.”

Kurama was surprised that Botan hadn't mention their involvement in the mission but did not ask, saying instead, “If we assist in your mission, Koenma will clear our records In Reikai.”

Yusuke laughed, relieved. “I guess Koenma heard all my complaining,” He said, turning to his friend. “Hey, Kuwabara let me introduce you to these guys,” He pointed to the smaller demon then the larger one. “That's Hiei and the red head is Kurama.”

“Pleased to meet you.” Kurama returned, greeting the tall human.

“Well, it's nice to have a helping hand.” Kazuma replied, blinking when Hiei spoke.

“Helping isn't the right word,” The fire demon began. “Koenma may consider us equals but I do not. Once inside, I suggest you stay back and let us do the work. As far as I'm concerned we're merely babysitting.”

Kurama sighed inwardly, knowing how the fire demon could rub people the wrong way with his arrogance.

“You little punk, I'm going to have to beat you up if you keep looking down at us.” Kuwabara growled, clearly agitated by the fire demon's brisk manner.

“Let's avoid fighting. You're not worth it.”

“Okay, that's it shorty!” Kuwabara lunged at the Koorime, missing completely as he crashed into the ground, the fire demon too fast for the street fighter to hit.

Hiei ignored the orange haired fighter, dodging his attack, his gaze focused solely on the Yusuke.

“You on the other hand, detective, are another story. I will take my revenge upon you once this is all over.”

Kuwabara rose, whirling around, pissed off as he growled. “Oh, going to ignore me, huh? Well, ignore this!” He lunged again and missed once more, falling down again as Hiei dodged the attack with ease.

Kurama wanted to rub his temples at the growing headache blooming in his mind. Children... he mumbled inwardly, part of him wishing he was back in human world helping Botan. At least then I wouldn't have to deal with all the animosity. “Hiei... why don't you focus on the business at hand before starting on your own?” He suggested.

“Don't worry three eyes. If we survive this, I'll be more than happy to take you on. Now then, is this a perfect team or what?” Yusuke said with a smirk, hands stuffed in his pockets as he led the way up to the entrance to the castle.

“Well.. this is homey...” Yusuke said dryly, eyeing the carved beast head and the darkened tunnel that lie beyond it's border.

“So... we're just going to walk right in?” Kuwabara murmured.

Kurama smiled a bit. “Well... any prize worth having usually requires a level of risk.” He said, recalling his many adventures of thieving in his former life.

“I say we make them come out here and fight instead of hiding inside their little castle like a bunch of sissies.” The orange haired teen commented, glaring over to his left when Hiei snorted.

“Your strategy is amazing..” He said sarcastically, drawing the taller man's ire.

“Stuff it runt!”

Yusuke's features shifted to controlled anger as he gritted through his teeth. “Let's go...”

He led the way in, stopping halfway as a floating eye bat flew in front of them.

“Welcome to Maze Castle. Those who enter must face the trial of the Gate of Betrayal.”

“Trial?” Yusuke asked, looking at his companions and back to the eye bat as it flew over to a switch, pushing it down, the ground starting to rumble.

“What the...” Yusuke's voice started then stopped.

Kurama frowned, looking upward, eyes widening as he cried out, “The ceiling!”

The ceiling shot down, causing the four men to brace their arms against it to stop from being crushed. It was a strain and required the use of all four of their powers to keep it at the same level.

“The ceiling will hold until one of you betrays the others. Only then will they be granted an audience with the Saint Beasts.”

Kuwabara struggled to hold his weight, his right knee threatening to give out and Hiei growled,

“Focus or we'll all be crushed!”

“I am!” The orange haired fighter grumbled. “I bet I'm holding a lot more weight then you are!”

“Well, I'm not about to die for you worthless humans..” Hiei snarled.

Kurama knew his friend well... knew his mind and he growled out himself. “Don't you even think it, Hiei!”

The flying eye bat taunted them and Yusuke had had enough. His gaze shifted over to the switch and a thought came to him. “Hiei! You're a lot faster than us!” He turned, looking over at the fire demon. “You can get to that switch while we hold the ceiling.”

“Are you nuts, Urameshi?!” Kuwabara shouted. “That little punk will leave us to die here! He doesn't care at all about us!”

“Your ugly friend has a point, detective,” Hiei said, his small form straining against the weight. “Are you sure you want to trust me? I've already sworn vengeance upon you. Maybe I'll just do it now and end this.”

“Something tells me quick deaths aren't your style.” Yusuke countered, his body glowing a shade of red as he spoke. “I've released the last of my reserve power to buy you time to flip the switch, just don't trip.”

Hiei studied the human boy in confusion.

“I trust you.” Yusuke confirmed with a nod and he pushed up with all his strength. “Now go!”

Hiei did not hesitate, rushing forward, free of the trap, his hand on the switch but he paused, features conflicted. He listened to the eye, ignoring the cries of indignation from the street fighter, lowering his hand.

“Good choice... the boulder would have crushed you anyway...” The eye murmured, half turning.

Hiei snapped his head, leaping up, sword drawn and his slashed downward. “Thanks for the clue!” He snarled, cutting the eye and landing back on the ground. He reached out, pulling the switch, a boulder falling instantly but it was too slow for the fast moving Hiei who stood atop the rock, sword still in hand, voice and features threatening as he shouted to the fleeing eye. “Tell your masters that this is their last chance to beg for mercy.”

Kurama smiled, happy that his friend had kept to his vow to aid the detective and he stood to Yusuke's left, listening as the detective joked around with the fire demon who put on his tough guy act as he responded,

“Don't confuse my help with friendship. I may have need of you at some later point during the following battles nothing more.”

The fire demon stalked off and Kurama explained. “It's his way of saying you're welcome. You will learn.”

The four of them walked down the hall, a sudden beeping noise ringing out that Kurama recognized and he watched as the detective pulled out the communicator, Botan's features appearing on the screen and he felt relief, knowing she was doing alright. He blinked as the street fighter commandeered the device, flirting with the deity and the kitsune felt a strange sense of possessiveness overtake him in regards to the ferry girl.

Hiei looked up at his friend and over to the street fighter, his keen observational skill catching a bit of jealousy in his friend's intent gaze and he smirked, knowing it was related to the blue haired ferry girl. Hmm... well isn't that interesting.

Kurama calmed himself, shaking his head as he focused his hearing, trying to catch what was being said, eyes widening at the sight of one of the spies coming up behind her. “Watch out!” He cried, surprised that the two teens said it at the same time, relieved when she used the bat he gave her, knocking the demon out with one blow.

The deity could not see Kurama but she knew he was there and she said softly. “It's okay... I'm doing well against these weaklings. It's the damn insects I'm having a hard time finding. Do be careful but do your best to beat those beasts quickly. Botan out!”

The screen went dark and Yusuke sighed, tucking the communicator back into his pocket.

“Hey, Kurama? You're pretty smart. Maybe you could tell us a bit about these Saint Beasts. Botan didn't give us jack squat for information.”

Kurama stuffed his hands in his pockets as he spoke. “Botan wouldn't be able to tell you much, Yusuke. The Four Saint Beasts hide away in this castle, far from the living world, restricted by the barrier and in response, Reikai intelligence long forgot this place. Any new information will be gleaned only by interacting with the demons here. Their appearance may be a bit... shocking for you at first.”

“Great... what are they, a bunch of hideous monsters?”

“Not a very nice thing to say...” A deep, gravely voice called out from behind a set of closed doors and the four men snapped their heads in various shades of surprise. “Why don't you open the doors and I'll show you just how hideous I can be.”

Yusuke and Kuwabara kicked open the door, the darkened room lit only with torches and the detective grabbed the closest torch, tossing it into the darkness, gasping in shock as the flame revealed a rather large stone like creature.

“Welcome intruders. I am Genbu of the Four Saint Beasts. Do you have a request before you die?” He paused, wiping his tail into the air. “You can either defeat me and continue on the stairway or be dragged up it's steps after I kill you!” He slapped his tail down, the floor shattering on impact, creating a small crater. “Why don't you all attack me at once, that way the last one to die won't feel so lonely.”

Kurama was unaffected by the threats from Genbu, his mind reasoning out a strategy and he stepped forward, features calm and determined. “I will fight this one.”

“Are you sure, Kurama?” Yusuke asked, looking over at the red head. The detective knew that the fox spirit had strength and cunning on his side but he also viewed the demon as a friend and didn't want him to be too rash.

“It would be ill advised to attack him all at once without knowing his true strength,” He paused, smirking a bit as he looked over at the fire demon. “Besides, I can hardly let Hiei get all the credit for this mission.”

“Hmph...” Hiei sounded out, watching his friend advance closer to the stone demon.

“But that's dangerous. We should just try to figure out a way to sneak around to the stairs!” Yusuke exclaimed, worried about his friend.

Hiei saw the detective's concern with guarded curiosity and in his own way he sought to ease some of the human boy's worry. “Do you want to know why I allied myself with Kurama? It's because I didn't want him as my enemy. He is a cunning fighter and much more merciless than me in battle as you will soon see.”

Yusuke looked down at the fire demon in surprise then over to the kitsune. I sure hope you're right, Hiei.

“The first move is yours,” Kurama called out as he stood facing the stone creature. When Genbu would not budge the kitsune's features grew harder. “If you won't come over then I'll go to you.”

Yusuke watched the two fighters, frowning as he noticed Genbu's tail sink into the ground and he pointed towards it, shouting out, “Hey! Stone guy is doing something freaky with his tail!”

Kurama sensed the attack at the last second, vaulting up into the air, wincing as the stone tail cut across his stomach, tearing his uniform jacket and shirt, blood seeping from the wound and he growled as the creature informed him of his power.

“Thanks to my body structure, I can become one with any type of rock, using it as a weapon. And since this entire room is made out of stone, the whole chamber is at my disposal. So you see, there's nowhere for you to run!”

Kurama listened, clutching his stomach as he rose. That's it, keep talking. He thought, turning his gaze over to the three men.

“Kurama!” Yusuke shouted, moving to join the fight but the kitsune waved him of.

“There is no need to worry. I have been hurt but I promise he won't get the same chance again.”

“I wouldn't be so confident if I were you.” Genbu growled, lowering himself into the stone floor.

The fox spirit watched, his mind going through different scenarios as he thought out his next move.

“Do something, Kurama!” Kuwabara shouted.

The red head sensed Genbu at the last instant, dodging both his fist and his tail, flipping into the air and landing gracefully, eyes narrowing as the stone creature vanished again. Same old tricks. He thought, jumping up in the air once more as Genbu shot out suddenly from the ground and the kitsune leaped away, still clutching his stomach, features haughty as laughter echoed in the room.

“You'll never defeat me by just running away little demon.”

Kurama closed his eyes, smirking. “You're absolutely right, Genbu.” He replied, reaching around behind his hair, withdrawing a rose and he held it before him.

“A... flower?” Yusuke murmured, confused.

“That's weird. If he's trying to win the beast over I don't think it's going to work.”

Kurama sighed at their simple minded thinking. “This is no ordinary flower,” He replied, feeding energy into the stem, the flower elongating, becoming a long green rope embedded with thorns and he called out, “Rose Whip!” Petals circled then rained down around the room.

“It smells girly.... I don't think I like it...” Kuwabara murmured.

Yusuke rolled his eyes. “Says the guy who snuggles with kittens.”

“Shut up, Urameshi!”

“Hah, hah... what good will a fancy whip do if you cannot tell where I am?” Genbu's voice rang out in the darkness.

“True.. not being able to find you is a problem,” The kitsune replied, closing his eyes, using his sense of smell to detect the stone creature and his eyelids snapped open. “Found you!” He shouted, rising, wielding the whip forward just as Genbu materialized from the ceiling. “Rose Whip Lash!”

“It's over...” Hiei commented, watching his friend attack the stone beast with expert precision. “The thorns on Kurama's whip are strong enough to slice through any substance. Even solid stone.”

The whip sliced Genbu into several pieces and he groaned, asking, “ugh... how did you find me?”

“Your smell.” Kurama replied. “That is why I used this attack. By unleashing rose petals, I could find your rotten scent.”

Genbu went still and Kurama relaxed, thinking it over but he sensed the stone creature reforming and he frowned, turning around, facing the demon once more dodging his attacks as he let loose his own cut parts. No matter how much I try to crush the stone, he just reforms. What is it I'm missing? He wondered, dodging the stone bits, his eyes catching sight of a glowing red rock and his mind reasoned out what it's purpose was. So that is how you keep reforming. His features grew determined and he held his ground, letting the stone hit him, cutting him up further and he sunk to a knee, panting a bit.

“You're not even fighting back now. All those blows must have made you insane.” Genbu taunted.

Kurama laughed softly rising as he tossed a look over his shoulder, trying hard not to bust out laughing at the sight before him.

There stood Genbu, his body reformed but his head was were his groin would be and the stone beast could only stare in confusion.

“Bwa Hah Hah! I've heard of brass balls before but come on!” Yusuke shouted, laughing hysterically as he pointed at Genbu.

“Yeah, I'd like to see him take a leak like that!” Kuwabara chimed in, tears in his eyes at the hilarity that met his view.

“Ah! What did you do to me?!”

“I took this,” Kurama replied, holding up the red pulsating stone.

“What is that?” Genbu asked, still confused.

“I believe it is the equivalent to the hypothalamus in the brain. It controls all the functions of your body, including the process of putting you back together,” He paused, looking from the stone to Genbu. “I excel in seeking out that which others try to hide as I am by nature a bandit. You did well to hide it from my view but the pulsating glow this stone emulates cannot escape from my eyes.”

“Give it back!” Genbu shouted in fear.

“I refuse,” Kurama replied tossing the red stone up into the air. “Farewell.” He said as he flicked his wrist, lashing out with his whip, splitting it cleanly in two. He watched as the stone demon glowed and then exploded into nothingness and the kitsune stood there for a moment before collapsing to a knee, clutching his wound.

“Hey, Kurama, you okay?” Yusuke asked, coming to the red head's side.

Hiei looked down at his friend with a bit of concern. “If Kurama is injured, we're going to have some problems.”

Kurama felt bad for allowing himself to be injured and he looked up at the detective, voice soft and apologetic. “I'm sorry, Yusuke.”

The dark haired boy gave him a thumbs up. “Nah... you've earned a break, we'll take it from here.”

Kurama nodded, rising again, following the rest of the group up the flight of stairs and into a hallway, after Kuwabara's reveal of an energy sword and subsequent light headedness the kitsune shook his head. We are in some serious trouble if this keeps up. The familiar beep of the communicator went off and Kurama watched as Botan's features came in view. Her anxiety was nearly palpable as he watched her spray some insects and then she took off, running from an attacker and he felt his own anxiety. Come on, Botan, find a safe place to hide! He thought, a wave of fear washing over him as the screen went blank. “Botan!” Kurama and Yusuke called out at the same time.

The screen returned and the deity appeared, clutching the bat, rising from the blue skin man she had just knocked out. “I don't want to make a habit of this, Yusuke. Please hurry!”

Relief filled the kitsune and he felt energy start to return. “We must hurry, Yusuke, before something bad happens to Botan and the others in our city.”

The spirit detective quirked an eyebrow at the youkai's concern, recalling the last interaction he witnessed between the fox and the deity and he was about to say something smart ass when a loud roar erupted, shaking the walls. “What the hell was that?”

“Our next opponent.” Hiei replied. “Let's go.”

“Right.” Yusuke said with a nod, leading the way up the stairs to their next opponent.

A series of battles began to take place, Kuwabara struggling but managing to defeat the cat demon Byakko. Hiei killed the ice demon Seiryu with quick strikes and they took off towards the last opponent, Suzaku only to stop as the communicator went off once more and Yusuke flipped it open, agitated.

“What now?” He growled, blinking as he found Keiko with Botan.

“Keiko?”

“I went and found her like you requested , Yusuke,” Botan replied, hiding in the bushes with the girl as she spoke in quiet tones. “It seems the people infected are looking for her and I don't think they want to talk. I'm almost certain they mean to kill her.”

“What!”

“Yes, that's....” The deity's voice cut off, looking behind her as one of the infected teachers called Iwamoto attacked them. The screen went blank and Yusuke was in a panic. “Botan?! Botan?! Are you there?! What's happening? Is Keiko alright?!”

Kurama looked over at the detective, sensing his stress and anxiety. He knew that Keiko was special to him and he understood the desire to end this as quickly as possible and the four of them raced forward, coming to a stop when a group of green plant like people blocked their entrance.

“We don't have time for a prolonged battle.” Kurama replied his brow furrowed, anxious to get to the whistle to destroy it.

“I'll just use my shotgun to blast through them and take them out in one hit.”

“Stop,” Kurama said, reaching out to touch Yusuke's shoulder. “As much as I understand your desire to get to Suzaku quickly, rash actions will lead to bad outcomes. We must think this out.”

“But how in the hell are we supposed to get into the tower without fighting through these plant monsters?”

“Up there.” Hiei offered, pointing up to an open window.

“Okay...but we're not Olympic jumpers. How do you suppose we can reach the window?”

“I have an idea.” Hiei replied, informing them of his plan and Kuwabara bowled through a group of plant monsters, bracing his legs as he shouted.

“Try not to dig your shoes into my back, okay?!”

Kurama rushed forward, leaping up, landing on the street fighter's shoulders, balancing himself. Hiei followed suit, landing on Kurama's shoulders and the detective rushed forward, bouncing off each man's back, vaulting up and towards the window.

Kurama and Hiei jumped down, watching.

“It will be close...” The kitsune commented, relieved when the detective caught the edge and climbed through, giving them a thumbs up before disappearing. Hurry, Yusuke. He thought, eyes narrowing as they were surrounded and attacked, taking out his frustration on the monsters, wielding his rose whip, trying to mow them down to get into the tower and up, wanting to help end this so that Botan and the girl Yusuke cared about would survive.

Botan kept Keiko close as they ran through the school trying to find someone that could help them. With the bat Kurama gave her lost, the deity was on the look out for new weapons and she spied a fire extinguisher, the two women separating, Keiko luring the infected away while the ferry girl grabbed the canister and shot them with the foam, dropping it as she cried out, “Now's our chance to run for it!” Botan started to move, whipping her head around as she sensed a dark presence behind her, her cry of alarm cut off as she was grabbed by the throat, the man pulling a fist back, ready to bash her face in when Keiko reacted, slapping the teacher with full force and they escaped, racing down the hall, the girl cut by one of the scissors an infected lashed out with and Botan grabbed Keiko's hand, running into a classroom, shutting the door and bolting it shut, watching in horror as the door began to shake.

Come on, Yusuke! She looked around, trying to find something, anything to knock out their attackers and she spied a broom closet. She took Keiko's scarf, stuffing it just outside the locker door, hiding behind curtains, holding up a finger for the girl to be quiet and they waited, listening as the door broke and the infected attacked the locker and they jumped out with sudden fury, knocking them out, racing for the door. “We're going to make it!” Botan cried only to gasp as something solid struck the left side of her head, blood splattering from the blow, knocking her down to her knees and against Keiko who grabbed her in shock. “Botan!”

Kurama had reached near the top of the stairway that led to Suzaku's chamber, the plant monsters all destroyed, frowning as a massive explosion rocked the tower, debris falling from above, knocking the section before him away, leaving a gaping space between them and the last part of the stairway. A sudden sense of worry filled him and he looked up, trying to place it. Botan? He wondered, his instinct telling him something had happened to her and he growled, looking over to Hiei, pointing to the section of stairway still left and the fire demon nodded, understanding crossing his features and he unsheathed his sword, throwing it up with full force, the blade sinking in firmly and the kitsune unleashed his rose whip, wrapping it around the hilt. “Hang on!” The three of them swung up, reaching the intact part of the stairway, continuing to the top, gasping in surprise at the sight that met their view.

There, in the now destroyed chamber, lay the now dead Suzaku and the dying detective.

“Urameshi!” Kuwabara shouted, rushing to his friend's side, Kurama following and he leaned down, inspecting the boy's vitals.

“This is bad,” Kurama said softly, looking down in concern at the human boy. “His life force is fading and his heartbeat is faint. He won't survive for much longer.”

“I'll give him some of my energy.” Kuwabara replied.

“That is suicidal, Kuwabara. You still haven't recovered from your fight with Byakko.”

“Well, I can't just stand here and watch him die!” Kuwabara countered, charging up his hands and he pressed them over Yusuke's heart, giving some of his ki, passing out from the effort but succeeding in keeping the detective alive.

Kurama watched, smiling and approving of the street fighter's willingness to sacrifice his energy to save his friend. “Well... looks like we'll have to carry them both back to Ningenkai.”

“What an annoyance,” Hiei grumbled. “I don't understand why people would sacrifice themselves to save others.”

The kitsune tilted his head, studying his friend. “He cared about Keiko, Hiei. Because of this concern and love, he was willing to give his life to save her. In turn, it gave him the strength to defeat Suzaku.”

“I suppose, but you won't find me doing the same thing.”

Kurama shrugged his shoulders, going over to grab Kuwabara, tossing him over his shoulder while Hiei lifted the detective, carrying him out and back towards the portal. They exited and entered Ningenkai, the street fighter waking up enough to croak out. “Take me... to my house guys... it's close.. to here...” The kitsune followed the orange haired boy's directions, helping him to sit on the couch while Hiei took Yusuke into the boy's bedroom, laying him down and backing up. He exited the way he came, looking over at the kitsune and the human. “I'm leaving.” He announced, heading out the door.

Kurama watched him go, turning his attention back to Kuwabara. “Are you going to be alright, Kuwabara?”

“Yeah... just... need to rest... but you should... make sure Keiko and Botan... are alright... I can't really sense them so well... right now...”

Kurama frowned, needing no further urging and he took off, heading for Sarayashiki Junior High, frowning at the mass of bodies lying on the school grounds. He barged through the doors, calling out, “Botan? Keiko? Are you here?!”

“We're up here! Please hurry! Botan's been hurt!”

The red head charged up the stairs two at a time, skidding to a stop as he found the human girl clutching the prone form of the ferry girl. He knelt down, brow furrowed at the blood along the left side of the deity's beautiful face and he reached out, gently taking her into his arms, cradling her to him as he spoke. “We should leave before the authorities arrive. I don't know about you but after all that's happened, I don't feel like being interrogated for hours on end.”

Keiko rose, tilting her head as she studied the red haired boy before her. He was rather handsome and he seemed very concerned over the ferry girl and she wondered who he was. “Um.. I don't mean to be rude, but... who are you?”

“My name is Kurama, a friend of Yusuke's.”

“Yusuke... is he alright?” She asked, looking up hopefully at the boy.

The fox spirit smiled inwardly at the worry in the girl's voice. She truly loves the detective. “He's alright but a bit... tired... from his assignment... He's currently convalescing at Kuwabara's if you would like to go see him.”

“I would.. but.. where are you taking, Botan? Do you work for her, too?”

He blinked at her question but nodded. “Yes... now shall we go?”

The girl nodded and the pair took off, exiting the school before the cops arrived on scene. Keiko made her way to Kuwabara's while the kitsune headed for his home, leaping up to his window much as he had the last time he healed the deity and he lay her on the bed with great care, going to the bathroom to grab a clean washcloth and some bandages. He soaked the cloth in warm water, coming back out, carefully cleaning the blood from her face and the wound, then held his hand over the injury, purple light erupting and he focused what energy he had available, closing the wound enough to staunch the blood flow. He gently pressed a few squares of sterile pads, taping them down with medical tape, making sure it was secure before rising up off the bed. He entered the bathroom once more, rinsing and wringing out the cloth before throwing it in the hamper, removing his ruined jacket and shirt, wincing at the cut across his abdomen. Though it had stopped bleeding it was still very tender and would take some time to heal. And I don't have enough energy to do that and remain conscious.

Reaching into the cabinet, he took out a roll of gauze, wrapping it around his torso and along the injury, tucking it in the side and he went back out into his room, going to his closet and he tugged a black t shirt off the hanger, a image of stars, a moon and triangle with a rainbow going through it visible on it's front in between the words Pink Floyd and he stuffed it over his head, going over to grab his guitar, pulling out the chair to his desk, sitting down, strumming softly, using his sensitive hearing to make sure the guitar was in tune, watching over the deity as his fingers slid expertly on the fret board, his voice a smooth tenor as he began to sing:

If he could hold her, so close in his arms...again
If she could show him
The letter her heart forgot to send...why
They're living dreams on their own
Ooh they'll never stop running

The girl can't help it, she needs more
He hasn't found what he's looking for
They're still standing in the rain
He can't help it, and she's just that way

And when he calls her
She tells him that she still cares
Under the moonlight,
He wonders why she can't be there...why
Why do they go on alone
When they're missing each other

The girl can't help it, she needs more
He hasn't found what he's looking for
They're still standing in the rain
He can't help it, and she's just that way

The girl can't help it, she needs more
He hasn't found what he's looking for
They're still standing in the rain
He can't help it, and she's just that way

There's a fire
Ooh there's a fire in his eyes for you
Don't you know she still cries
Ooh do you know she still cries for you
Fire
Ooh there's a fire in his eyes for you
For you she cries
Ooh do you know she still cries for you
Fire
Ooh there's a fire in his eyes for you
Ooh nothing stands between love and you

“You have a beautiful voice, Kurama.” He heard the ferry girl say softly and he smiled, laying a hand on the strings, silencing them.

“How long have you been awake?” He asked, noting her energy had returned to normal levels pulling her into the realm of consciousness just as he had begun to sing.

“Not very long,” She replied, her eyes focused on the red head. “I have to admit I've never woke up to the sight of a handsome man playing guitar before. It's rather nice.”

He chuckled softly, rising, returning the guitar to it's stand before heading back to his chair, rolling it to sit next to the bed, turning it around, laying his crossed forearms on the headrest as he sat down. “Well, I'll have to play more often for you then.” He replied with a twinkle in his eye before his features turned serious. “Do you remember what happened to you, Botan?”

The deity rose, sliding her legs over the side, sitting upright, her hand reflexively going up to the left side of her forehead, blinking as her fingertips brushed against some kind of fabric and she recognized it as medical padding. “Yes.. we were running from the infected teachers. When we fled the room, one of them hit me with something rather hard. I.. I passed out after that..” She gasped, rising as she asked in concern. “Is Keiko alright?”

“She's fine, Botan, don't worry. Yusuke defeated Suzaku. The insects and the demons have all been defeated.”

“Oh thank God! I wasn't sure we would make it out there alive!” She exclaimed, sinking back down on the edge of the bed.

“Everyone is safe now, though Yusuke will need a bit of time to recover.”

Botan bit her lip, voice soft. “I lost my communicator at the school. I don't have any way of contacting Koenma to inform him of what has occurred. Or.. I guess I should say he has no way of contacting me.”

The kitsune tilted his head. “I think you've earned a bit of a break, Botan. Why don't you stay here for a few days.”

“Here? With you?”

He laughed softly at her blush, features and tone a bit teasing. “Would that be such a bad thing, Botan? I know I'm a youkai but as you said, it's not everyday you get to have a handsome man serenading you with music as you wake up.”

Her blush deepened and she pouted. “Oh you...” She started and stopped unable to say anything clever enough in retort.

He chuckled, amused by her reaction. “Well.. I suppose it's better for you to stay with Keiko. Koenma would probably say I'm up to no good, keeping you here in my room.”

“You're not keeping me here in the room, Kurama, but you're right. Koenma is probably already mad at me for not reporting right back to him. Still, I think I will take your advice. I've sorted everything out with Keiko and after our mutual struggle, I think she'll be glad to have a female friend around to talk to.”

Kurama nodded, his reason agreeing though his heart wished to talk to her more. “I think that is a wise decision, Botan,” He answered, rising out of his chair, holding out his hand for her to take. “So why don't I escort you out of the house properly and walk you over to Kuwabara's?”

She blinked but took his hand, letting him help her up, feeling the warmth of his skin, smiling at the sensation though she looked up at him in confusion. “Kuwabara's?”

“Yes,” He answered with a nod. “That is where Yusuke currently is and that is where I directed Keiko to go. It stands to reason that she would still be there, watching over her boyfriend.”

“Oh.. of course...” The deity replied, leaving the room with him, heading down the stairs and out of the house. “Um.. Isn't your mother home?”

“No.” He answered simply, unlocking the door, opening it for her to exit first before following and closing it once more. “She was going out with Kazuya after work, she won't be back until later.”

“Your mother's boyfriend I take it?”

“Yes. He owns a small company that she works for. They fell in love and have been dating for a while now.”

Botan smiled. “You sound like you're happy for her.”

“I am,” He answered, a soft smile on his lips. “He makes her happy and she loves him. That is all anyone can ask for in this world.”

She studied the red head as they walked down the sidewalk towards the subway station, the sun beginning to set in the sky. He was an enigma to her. Cool and collected for the most part, but there were times when slivers of emotion escaped the tight confines of his mask and she found him all the more intriguing for it. “Do you ever think you will fall in love and marry, Kurama?”

He was surprised by her question but recovered quickly, replying in a cryptic manner, “One never knows...”

She pouted at his vague response, blinking when he returned the question to her.

“What about you, Botan? Do you ever think about loving someone? Marrying them?”

Her features turned thoughtful. “Well... I mean... as ferry girls our jobs take up all our time, though there are quite a few who have boyfriends... so.. I guess... someday.. maybe I can see myself falling for someone and possibly marrying them.. I just don't know...”

He listened to her answer, understanding her words and reasoning. “Sometimes... work makes it difficult for us to find love and keep it... and sometimes... love finds us...” He looked over at her, giving her a warm smile. “At least... that's what I've been told...”

She returned his smile, nodding. “That makes sense... at least I think it does...”

He chuckled at her silliness. “I'm glad you agree.”

The pair took the train to Yusuke's side of town, the kitsune walking along side the girl, stopping outside Kuwabara's residence. “Here we are.”

The deity smiled, starting forward, stopping when Kurama did not follow. “Aren't you coming too?”

“I... well... I don't want to intrude...” He started, surprised at his stammering, blinking when the girl took hold of his hand and pulled him with her.

“Stop being anti-social and come with me. We can visit with the others and find out what all went on.”

He started to protest but did not pull away from the deity, sighing as he walked behind her up the steps, knocking on the door, blinking in surprise as the street fighter answered. “Uh.. hey Botan and Kurama! Didn't expect to see you two so soon! Come in.” He moved to the side, allowing the pair to enter.

“Thanks, Kuwabara.” Botan replied, moving past the boy, heading into the bedroom as she sensed Yusuke's ki, smiling as she found Keiko sitting next to him, holding his hand and she backed out slowly, leaving the two lovebirds alone. She returned to the living room, addressing the two men as she spoke, “Looks like Yusuke's out of commission for a few days. Good. He need the rest.”

“Yeah.. that Suzaku really did a number on Urameshi but he pulled through. I gave him some of my energy to save his life,” Kuwabara said, “That was a dangerous mission and hopefully my last,” He turned to Kurama asking, “How's that wound of yours doing, Kurama?”

The deity looked over to the kitsune. “You were injured?”

He waved off her concern, not wanting to make her worry. “It was nothing. Just a little scratch.”

“Little scratch?” Kuwabara interjected. “That Genbu guy cut your stomach pretty good with that tail of his. You should have it looked at so it doesn't get infected.”

“He's right, Kurama. You should have that looked at.” Botan said, her features and tone brooking no argument as she took his hand and led him to the bathroom.

Kuwabara blinked, looking between the deity and the kitsune and his brow furrowed. Strange... it's like Botan and Kurama already know each other... wonder what that's about?

Kurama sighed, though he let her lead him to the bathroom. “It's okay, Botan, really. I already bandaged it so it should be fine.”

“Still, I want to make sure it's okay.” She replied, letting his hand go, watching him expectantly and he stood there for a few seconds before taking his shirt off, letting her inspect the bandage, surprised when she unraveled it, his abs flexing in reaction to her touch though he held still, letting her aid in the healing process.

“You were cut rather deeply, Kurama. It's a miracle you didn't bleed to death.” She replied softly, blue light erupting from her hand, slowly dragging her hand along the gash, the skin mending as her fingertips passed.

He looked down at her, voice soft. “I'm rather.. resilient, Botan. My body begins to heal on it's own so I had no fear I would bleed to death.”

“Yet, you still have such a large wound.” She countered. “So why did you not heal it when you returned home.”

He didn't answer at first and the girl looked up. “Kurama?”

He met her gaze, voice soft. “I was more worried about your injury. Unlike me, your body does not automatically heal itself, so I focused on taking care of you first.”

She found herself blushing at his answer and she looked back down to hide her response, focusing back on the wound. “You think so little of yourself, Kurama. That selfless streak of yours could come back to haunt you someday.”

“I'll take my chances.” Kurama replied, watching as the girl hid from his gaze and healed his wound.

She straightened her frame, looking up at him. “There... all better... Now try not to get hurt so much next time, okay? I worry about you and want you to come home safe from any missions Koenma sends you out on.”

The air felt a bit heavy for some reason and he cut through it with a bit of silliness of his own, bringing his right hand up to salute her. “Yes, ma'am!”

She blinked but giggled, the spell broken and she watched as the kitsune slid his t shirt back on. The pair returned to the living room, sitting down and talking with Kuwabara for a few moments before Keiko exited the room. The deity asked if it would be okay to stay with her and the girl agreed and Kurama walked with the two girls, escorting them safely, waving goodbye as he turned to leave.

Botan watched him go, returning the wave, lowering her hand as Keiko asked,

“You seem to know that boy pretty well, Botan.”

“Yes.” The deity answered. “He's a good friend of mine.”

“So he was telling the truth that he works with you for that detective agency?”

“Huh?” She replied, lost for a second before she remembered the cover story she had told the girl once before. “Uh... right! Kurama works for me.” She answered. “Now then... shall we go inside? I'm feeling rather tired all of the sudden.”

You don't look tired. Keiko thought, studying her new friend. There was something in the way Botan looked at Kurama that reminded her of how she herself felt when looking at Yusuke and she wondered if there was something going on between the handsome red haired boy and the blue haired girl. Hmm... I'll have to ask her about that some time. The brown haired girl invited Botan in, the two females settling down for the evening, exhausted from running away from a bunch of psychopaths intent on killing them. I hope this doesn't become a regular thing. Keiko said silently, closing her eyes, letting the darkness of sleep consume her, leading her in the land of dreams where the light always shined and monsters didn't exist.

Holy crap! I can't believe I wrote another long chapter! This is rather crazy but again... that damn Saint Beast case took up a lot of the chapter. I almost skipped it but that wouldn't be right, since I'm following the entire YYH universe. Hopefully you didn't find it too boring. I followed both the manga and the anime in this one, adding my own flourish here and there. We have a growing friendship between Botan and Kurama and it hasn't gone unnoticed. The next case will be Yukina's rescue and will use much more of the manga than the anime in that Botan did not assist Yusuke and Kuwabara in Yukina's rescue. So guess where she'll be hanging out? In Reikai with Kurama.. so I will add that part in from the anime. After that case.. it's off to the Dark Tournament... which will be several chapters long... and the KxB interaction will continue.. The song used in the story is called Girl Can't Help It by Journey and was the inspiration for After the Fall. So it's a little.. ode to that story I guess.