Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ If Anyone Falls ❯ Inside the Stadium ( Chapter 12 )

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

Another update for my loyal readers! I hope you all enjoy it cause it kicked my butt and I'm wore out! There are deviations in regards to where certain characters are and how they might react to certain situations and I tweaked others still, though I keep to the manga in that Youko and Shuichi are not two separate people... but the same.. just... different in personality... though the plot line remains the same. Onto the chapter!

Chapter 12-Struggle to Overcome

May 5, 1993 Inside the Stadium

Kurama stood inside the arena, watching as Team Toguro and Team Gorenja took the field. The kitsune's brow furrowed when he noticed that younger Toguro had opted out of the fight. Strange. He thought, keeping his gaze focused on the ring as Karasu entered the ring against the goblin-like creature called Midorenja. The beastly youkai produced a foul smelling orb that made Kurama crinkle his nose in disgust. Karasu dodged the attack, countering by leaping up in the air and landing behind the goblin, touching his shoulder and Kurama's eyes widened as Midorenja's arm exploded. The masked youkai then turned around and touched the other arm, the appendage flying off from yet another explosion.

How is he doing this? Does he transfer energy through his hands and into their bodies to make them explode? Karasu touched the goblin again and this time, a great explosion ripped through the ring, obliterating the entirety of Midorenja's body. Fear grew in Kurama's heart. I cannot beat him as I am. I must find a way to bring my youkai form into existence or else I will die here. He continued to watch the rest of the match, though his mind was preoccupied with thoughts of how to return to his youkai form so that he could protect the one most precious to him. I must do this... I must find a way to shift to Youko so that I can return home to my mother. And... keep Botan safe...

In the Hotel

A sudden sneeze erupted from Botan, voice soft and apologetic. “My goodness, that came out of nowhere... sorry about that...” She pulled back away from Yusuke, smiling over at the relieved features of Keiko before turning towards Kuwabara who asked,

“So, uh, Botan, how's Urameshi doing?”

“He'll be fine, Kuwabara. Thanks to Yukina's help, Yusuke's wounds are all healed. He just needs rest now.” The deity answered, eyes shifting to Genkai who pushed off the wall and headed towards the door.

“Keep an eye on everyone here, Kuwabara, will you?”

The street fighter turned his head, inquisitive brown orbs studying the human psychic. “I will, but where are you going, Ma'am?”

Genkai paused, voice soft and tinged with a hint of sadness. “I have to go meet an old friend,” She replied, her back straightening and she turned the doorknob, pulling the door open, voice more commanding. “Do not wait up for me and do not let Yusuke wander far from here, do you understand?”

“Um... alright...”

Genkai nodded then exited into the hallway, closing the door behind her.

Botan frowned, unease in her heart as she studied the door. Why does it feel like that was a goodbye?

Stadium Tunnel Entrance

Kurama walked with calm confidence, ignoring the taunts and stares of the lower class youkai crowding the tunnel as he kept his eyes focused in front of him. He spied movement up ahead, coming to a stop as his emerald orbs fell upon the forms of Karasu and a large man in full armor called Bui. The kitsune steeled his will, keeping his mask of indifference on as he started forward again.

“Hello again, beautiful,” Karasu called out in a seductive tone. “I saw you watching in the stands today, all alone and vulnerable,” He taunted lightly. “I take it then that the rest of your team must feel very confident in their ability to defeat us.”

Kurama's body tensed, angered at the way the taller man spoke to him. Depraved bastard. He growled silently as he walked past them.

Karasu quirked an eyebrow at the lack of response so he upped it a notch, calling out,

“Pity Botan isn't with you at the moment. I was meaning to speak to her about something but you'll do just as well.”

Kurama stopped, slowly turning around, his mask slipping, morphing into a death glare, his voice cold and deadly. “You will stay away from her.”

Karasu tilted his head, grinning behind his mask as he noted the fleck of gold in the lovely green pools of the boy's oh so angry eyes. So.. the more angry you become, the more Youko rises to the surface, yet you cannot change at will can you? He thought, a manic gleam in his purple orbs as he enjoyed the lethal tone in the red head's voice. That girl you seem so attached to must be your trigger point. I just have to exploit it and then I can have as much fun with you as I want. “You don't get it do you, Kurama? Perhaps it's time I enlighten you?”

The fox spirit took a defensive position, sensing the threat, snapping his gaze over to Bui who punched the wall, causing it to shake. When the larger man didn't move, Kurama's attention shifted back in front of him and he frowned at the empty space where Karasu had been standing just seconds ago and his eyes darted back and forth. Where did he go?

“You have lovely hair, Kurama, do you let Botan play with it like this, hmm?” Karasu's voice whispered from behind him and the kitsune was frozen in shock and fear as the youkai touched his hair, hands hovering dangerously close to his neck.

“I can kill you and your ferry girl at any time,” The masked demon continued. “I'm merely delaying the inevitable for my own amusement,” He leaned in closer to whisper, “I'm going to enjoy breaking the both of you.”

Kurama's jaw clenched, rage overcoming fear at the threat to Botan and the closeness of the youkai he despised and the kitsune whirled around, lifting his arm, sweeping it violently as he growled, “Get away!”

Karasu jumped back, landing near Bui, a stinging sensation on the left side of his cheek and the masked youkai reached up, feeling something wet and he pulled his hand back, laughing softly at the sight of blood on his fingertips, his body shivering in delight at the violence the boy displayed and the large but brief burst of ki that had allowed the red head to hurt him. “Don't be so upset... It's just a game...” The dark haired youkai said mockingly. “You should be more worried about your friends since one of you will be dying today.”

“Dying?” Kurama replied as he lowered his arm, frowning at the taller man's words as he watched the pair walk away. He moved to give chase only to stop and blink as a haze of black fog erupted and disappeared, taking Karasu and Bui with it. The kitsune's mind worked in rapid succession, several variables revealing themselves as he tried to figure out just who the target would be. Karasu, Bui, and elder Toguro were here today for the match but younger Toguro was not. Could it be... that it's Yusuke they are after? The hotel... he's at the hotel... the girls are at the hotel... Botan... is..

Kurama grit his teeth and raced off as fast as his legs could carry him, entering the lobby, skidding to a stop before the stair door entrance and he banged it open, taking the stairs two at a time as he dashed upwards, pulling the door for the eighth floor open, running down the hall before bursting into the common room, eyes darting about, his gaze falling on the surprised features of Botan.

The deity sensed the panic in the normally reserved fox spirit's energy and she rose, eyeing him in concern. “Kurama, what's wrong?”

“Yusuke... is Yusuke here?”

“Of course he is,” Botan replied, looking over towards Keiko and Shizuru who studied the interaction with interest. “He's just resting right now.”

Kurama headed over to the connecting door, opening it, standing in the doorway, eyes falling on an empty bed. “He's not here... Neither is Kuwabara....”

“What?!” Botan exclaimed, rushing over to the kitsune as he entered the room, allowing her to see for herself. “Well.. that's odd.. I didn't even hear anything.”

“Where's Genkai?” Kurama asked, studying the ferry girl intently.

Botan blushed under his gaze but cleared her throat. “She mentioned something about going to see an old friend but it felt... odd.. like she was saying... goodbye to all of us.”

Realization lit up the kitsune's face and he marched over to the door that led out to the hallway, tugging it open, pausing briefly as he turned around to speak. “Botan... please do not leave this room. Do not let anyone else wander away. I don't want you hurt.”

He started to walk forward, stopping again as Botan called out, concern in her voice and features as she spoke.

“Where are you going, Kurama?”

“I need to find Yusuke... I need to warn him, though I fear I will be too late.”

“Too late?” Botan asked with a frown. “Too late for what?”

His features grew determined. “To stop Yusuke from seeing something he should not see..” His voice softened just a bit. “Please wait for me, here, Botan. I promise I will return to you as soon as I can.” He entered the hall, closing the door before the girl could protest, heading back the way he came. Don't do anything foolish, Yusuke. The fox spirit thought as he headed down the stairs and out of the hotel, racing into the woods, searching out the particular ki of Genkai and the much stronger one of Yusuke.

Kurama stopped in a clearing, closing his eyes as he concentrated, his eyelids snapping open at the sudden enormous burst of ki that exploded north of his location and the red head took off again, leaping up into the trees, vaulting from branch to branch, trying to get a visual of what he was sensing. He jumped down when a path presented itself, stopping suddenly as a cool breeze swirled around him, whispers of death upon the wind and he dropped his gaze, feeling the loss of Genkai in that moment. She's dead. Toguro has killed her. He sensed Yusuke's ki and he snapped his head up and tore off only to stop at the sight of a familiar figure several feet away. “Koenma...”

The spirit lord turned, his brown eyes focusing on the kitsune in surprise and regret. “You shouldn't be out here, Kurama, it's dangerous.”

But the kitsune knew better. If that were true, you wouldn't be out here all alone with youkai scattered everywhere. “No... I think the danger is over... and you know why don't you?” Kurama countered as he walked towards Koenma.

Jr. sighed. Of course he'd figure it out. The spirit lord returned his attention to the brush before him. “Genkai knew this day would come. She made preparations for her death and transferred her power to Yusuke. As you said before, he should have enough energy now to compete with Toguro.”

“At the cost of his psyche?” Kurama asked, coming to stand to the spirit lord's left. “The trauma of witnessing her death could break him.”

“I think you don't give Yusuke enough credit,” Koenma replied. “He is strong, he'll survive.”

Kurama frowned, tilting his head. “And you put too much of a burden on him,” He countered, drawing Koenma's attention. “No matter how strong he may be, Yusuke is still a 14 year old boy who has had little positive going on in his life. The one person who cared enough to teach him and give him guidance has been murdered in front of him. Did you stop to think what the consequences of that would be?”

“It was not my intention for him to see this,” Koenma replied, looking back to the brush. “It wasn't meant to be seen. But Yusuke chased after Genkai... and... Toguro... killed her in front of him. Genkai once said that the pain of loss was a great trigger for a fighter to reach their full potential and she was more than willing to die to make him strong enough to defeat her ex-lover.”

Kurama shook his head. “Yusuke will be broken from this for a while, you realize that don't you?”

“Yes...” Koenma whispered then added in a firmer tone. “I have to go retrieve her body... Botan will deliver her soul up to Reikai, so you won't be seeing her until tomorrow... Return back to the hotel and do not tell anyone of this.”

The kitsune clenched his jaw, his voice even though he glared at his boss. “And what of Yusuke? Are you going to leave him out here like this?”

Koenma started forward. “Yusuke needs time to grieve alone... He will not want anyone to see his emotional trauma.... you should understand that better than anyone...”

The kitsune blinked at his words, watching as Jr. walked through the brush and the red head pivoted around, heading back to the hotel, irritated with his boss and the situation.

In the Hotel

Botan was in the bathroom when she felt a sudden loss of life and she swayed a bit, gripping the edge of the sink, knees shaking as she recognized the ki. “Genkai....” She lowered her head, turning on the faucet to cover the sounds of her crying as she broke down. A knock rang out on the bathroom door, Shizuru's voice coming through the door.

“You okay in there, kiddo?”

Botan quickly wiped her eyes, gathering herself as she answered in as calm a voice as she could. “Yes, I'll be right out.” The ferry girl splashed some water on her face, then shut the faucet off, patting her face dry. Come on, Botan. Time to put on the game face. She looked in the mirror, smiling to hide the pain as she turned around and opened the door.

Shizuru saw the red in the girl's eyes though her expression was cheerful enough. “Is something wrong, Botan?”

“No, of course not... I'm a-okay, like I always am!” Botan answered, giving a small laugh. “I'm just a bit tired is all. I think I'll head to my room to lay down.” She walked past the taller girl, exiting out the main common room door, closing it carefully behind her.

You are not a-okay, kiddo. And I think I know why. Shizuru thought, turning to look out the window, the sun still high in the sky. Something bad's happened out there, hasn't it, Botan?

Botan headed down the hall to her room, opening then closing the door. She heard her communicator going off and she walked over, digging into her bag, she pulled the little blue device out, flipping it open, Koenma's teenage form visible as he began to talk.

“Botan?”

“Koenma, sir.” She replied, her voice barely audible.

“I know... this will be hard for you... but I want you to find and retrieve Genkai's spirit for passage to Reikai.”

Botan said nothing in response, just staring at her boss.

“Botan? Did you hear what I said? Genkai was your friend and it is only right to have you take her to Spirit World.”

“Did you know this would happen?” She asked.

“What?”

“Did you know this would happen?” She repeated, more force in her voice this time.

Koenma sighed though he understood her anger and grief. “It was not my decision, Botan, you must understand that. Genkai wanted it this way. There is nothing that can be done about it but to do our duty,” His voice grew firmer. “You are a ferry girl. It is your job to ferry souls up to Reikai. Can you do this or do you want me to contact one of the other girl's in your place?”

Genkai is my friend. She thought as she lowered her gaze. I should be the one to take her to Spirit World. “I will go.” She answered, returning her attention to the screen.

“Good. If there are any issues, contact me. I'll keep the line of communication open. Koenma out.”

The screen went dark and the deity closed the device, laying it on the bed. She rummaged through her bag, pulling out her pink kimono and blue obi. Botan changed into her work uniform, materializing her oar as she walked to her window, unlocking it and sliding it fully open before slipping onto her oar, floating up and out the window as she headed for the spirit pulse that emanated from Genkai's soul. It didn't take long for her to find the human psychic, standing upon a hill that overlooked the sea. The ferry girl landed, the ocean breeze tugging at the braided pink hair of Genkai, her arms crossed behind her back and Botan called out, softly. “Master Genkai?”

The human psychic turned, her youthful appearance no surprise to the deity. “Botan?” She replied, smiling a bit as she added. “I knew it would be you that would take me to Reikai.”

The ferry girl walked up to her friend, voice and features sad. “Yes... I felt it best to be the one to take you home, Genkai...I hope you don't mind.”

“Why would I? A friendly face on the way to the afterlife is a welcome sight.”

Botan bit her lip as tears threatened to fall down her face.

Genkai saw the look on deep sadness in the girl's eyes and she sighed, looking back out to the sea, voice surprisingly soft. “I had a long life, Botan, so no crying crap alright? I made my peace with death and I'm ready to go.”

The deity wiped her eyes, giving her best smile to hide her sadness. “Okay... but don't you want to say goodbye to Yusuke? He'll be able to see you, you know... I can take you to him, if you want.”

“No,” Genkai replied as the wind tugged at her bangs. “This is the way it must be. I had hoped he would not see my death, though I knew he would follow. That is my dimwit student for you, stubborn and a big pain in the ass til the end,” She turned, looking up at the deity. “But I would like you to give him a message for me when you return here.”

“What would you like me to tell him?”

“Tell him that as a student he was an annoyance and that I want him to live for a very long time so I can finally get some peace and quiet,” She paused, smiling a bit. “But also tell him to stop moping around like the dimwit he is and go win this tournament for everyone.”

“I will tell him.” Botan replied with a nod.

Genkai looked back to the sea one last time, memorizing the view before speaking once more. “Alright... I'm ready... let's get this over with...”

Botan lowered the oar, Genkai sliding behind her and the pair took off into the sky, heading for Reikai.

On the Island

Kurama headed back towards the hotel exiting the woods into a clearing, stopping at the sight of Kuwabara who came running towards him.

“Kurama!” The taller man shouted. “Have you seen Urameshi? I can't seem to find him anywhere and there was this freaky burst of energy that disappeared... it's just... weird...”

The fox spirit kept his features even, remembering Koenma's orders. “Sorry, no.” He lied.

Kuwabara frowned. “Man... this is just great... we need to gather together as a team and figure out what is going on around here.”

The kitsune heard the nearly silent footsteps upon the grass at the opposite edge of the clearing and his voice hardened as he called out, “Show yourself.”

A blond haired man covered in bandages stepped out from behind a large tree, green eyes studying them with interest. “Ah, just the two men I wanted to see.”

“Who the heck is this guy?” Kuwabara asked, looking over at the blond.

“But don't you recognize the beautiful Suzuka?” The blond replied.

“The clown guy?” Kuwabara murmured. “The one that got beat up by Genkai?”

“Watch it, human boy,” Suzuka retorted then sighed. “ I found out the hard way that my body isn't meant for fighting. And all my creations cannot compete with your brute strength. No wonder you think of me as a clown.”

Much less now than in your earlier performance. Kurama thought. “Our time is limited, my friend. Tell us why you are here.”

“Your type is so incapable of good conversation,” Suzuka replied, holding up a glass jar full of a red liquid, a strange fruit of some kind floating inside it in his right hand while his left held a hilt for a sword. “I'll just skip to the point. These two items are my gifts to you.”

Kurama accepted the jar, holding it up to inspect it. “Would you care to elaborate what this is?”

“Yeah, what the heck is this, a fancy ruler of some kind?” Kuwabara asked, holding up the hilt as he studied it.

“It's a hilt,” Suzuka explained. “Those two items were the starting points for two members of my own team,” He looked over to the kitsune. “That bottle contains the fruit of the previous life hand picked from the upper realm of Reikai. Drinking that will return you to your demon from, Kurama. It was used for Ura Urashima's Idunn Box,” He moved over towards Kuwabara. “And that hilt is made from a Japanese cedar that grew to great heights by absorbing the surrounding life. It was used to create Shishiwakamaru's Banshee Sword.”

“Eww... that sounds really creepy! I don't want to hold that!” Kuwabara exclaimed, throwing the hilt back at Suzuka who caught it.

“It will become different for you, Kuwabara, so take it,” He tossed the hilt over to the taller man who fumbled a bit before catching it. “Allow me the pleasure of a few more words and a warning and I'll leave you be.”

Kuwabara and Kurama focused on the smaller man as he continued.

“Our fight was the first time those items were used. I cannot tell you how those items will work for you or what side effects will have upon their user. It's up to you whether you want to use those items or not so good luck.” He turned to leave, stopping when Kurama asked,

“Why do you want to help us?”

“Because I dislike you but I hate Toguro,” Suzuka answered. “I was so weak that he beat me with less than 1 percent of his power. I was humiliated. I swore my revenge but my fight with you showed me that I don't have what it takes to win. However, your group does. If my items can aid in the downfall of Toguro then I will at least have some small satisfaction of knowing I had a hand in it.” The blond youkai headed back into the wood, leaving Kurama and the street fighter alone.

“You think we should use these items, Kurama?” Kuwabara asked, looking down at the hilt in his hand.

“Yes.” Kurama replied without hesitation, relief filling him as he lifted the glass jar up. Fruit of the previous life, is it? With this I can defeat and kill Karasu so that Botan will remain safe from him.

Kuwabara studied the kitsune. Gee, he seems really excited about this stuff. Of course, if he can turn into that fox demon guy, he should be able to kick butt. The street fighter looked back down at the hilt, features becoming resolved. Well, if he can do this, then so can I! I'll figure out some way to use this thing so I can win! “So, uh, what should we do now?”

Kurama lowered the glass container, his gaze lifting up to the sky. The sun was beginning it's slow descent in the sky, the coming of night soon approaching and he answered. “We should head back to the hotel. We will need to eat and rest so that we can train at our fullest tomorrow.”

“Yeah, I guess, but what about Urameshi? Do you think he'll be alright out here by himself?”

Physically yes, mentally I'm not certain it's wise for him to be alone, though given the trauma he just experienced, our words won't reach him. Kurama answered silently as he spoke, “Yusuke will be alright, Kuwabara. He just needs a little time to himself to prepare for the finals. Let's go.”

The two men headed back to the hotel, the sun beginning to set in the sky, signaling the coming evening. Kurama headed to his room, setting the jar on the nearby nightstand as he picked up the phone and order room service. After his dinner, the kitsune sat down on the edge of his bed, lifting the jar once more, studying it. Tomorrow I will test this potion to see it's effects, but for now I should sleep. He sat the jar back down, rising, changing out of his outfit, slipping on black pj pants, his gaze turning to the window at the blinding flash of light, the ki recognizable as Yusuke's. So, a parting gift in honor of Genkai? A good sign of recovery I would say. The fox spirit thought, relieved to know his friend was going to be okay.

Turning, Kurama headed back to bed, turning off the light before sliding under the covers. The red head studied the ceiling, his thoughts turning to Botan. The stress of taking a good friend to spirit world had to affect her psychologically and emotionally. I will be here for you, Botan, if you need me. No matter what happens, know I will always listen. Closing his eyes, Kurama willed himself to sleep, knowing he would need the rest for his day of training tomorrow.

Reikai

Botan delivered Genkai up to Spirit World, making sure she was comfortable in the waiting station before contacting Koenma, passing along Genkai's message to him.

“Very good, Botan. Check up on the office will you and see if there is anything the ogres need before you head back down here in the morning.”

Botan looked down, her heart still saddened by the death of her friend. “Yes, sir.”

Koenma sighed, seeing her depressed expression. “Come on, Botan, don't be a big baby about this. Genkai told you not to cry about her death, right? So stop doing it.”

Botan snapped her gaze up, glaring at her boss. “I'll cry if I want to, you insensitive jerk!” She shouted and slammed the communicator shut in her anger. Stupid ass. What does he think I am, some robot without emotions?! Genkai was my friend! It's only natural for me to cry over it! She marched down the halls of the palace and out the side door, not bothering to check the office or ask the ogres how things were going, too upset to care. Let Koenma deal with his own messes, I'm not cleaning them up!

She walked out into the courtyard, slowing to a stop as she came to stand before the cherry blossom tree. It's full branches fluttered in the wind, petals dancing around her as if in greeting and she felt faint traces of Kurama's energy humming within the tree and her anger abated. “Kurama...” She whispered, smiling softly as she reached out to rest her hand on the trunk of the tree and closed her eyes. I don't know if you can hear me, Kurama, but I thank you for this small gift and for always listening to me, even when I ramble and say silly things. It is one of the reasons that I love you as I do. Botan opened her eyes and gently pulled her hand away. “I will see you soon.” She whispered, heading to her room to rest for the evening before her trip back to Hanging Neck Island.

May 6, 1993 On the Island

Kurama woke up before the sun rose, his emerald eyes blinking clear, a small smile on his face. He had dreamed of the deity last night, hearing her voice through a tree, feeling the tenderness of her words and his heart lightened, for she had chased away the demons that haunted the halls of his mind and he felt more rested than he had for the entirety of the tournament. Tossing the covers off his legs, the red head rose, heading into the bathroom, cleaning up and changing into his fighting outfit before grabbing the glass jar and heading down stairs. He ate a light breakfast then began his trek deep into the forest, sitting down upon the fallen trunk of a tree as he lifted the container up, studying the contents once again. The warning of side affects persisted in the kitsune's brain but Kurama knew he had no choice. I must test this to see if it truly works or not.

He unscrewed the sliver cap, holding it in his left hand as he poured some of the red potion into it. The red head tossed the liquid back, noting the slightly sweet taste, before screwing the cap back firmly into place. Sitting the container down, Kurama rose, mentally timing the delay before the change. At first nothing happened but a sudden burst of energy erupted from within and a dark mist swirled around him, black lightning exploding, charging the atmosphere with electricity as the kitsune's body shifted, becoming taller, stronger, more powerful, and even more dangerous and Kurama flexed his hands, his transformation into Youko now complete.

It felt good to be back in his old form though he knew it was only temporary. The kitsune would have to test the effects several times before he knew for sure the duration of the change. I only hope I can hold this form long enough to defeat Karasu. Kurama sensed the sudden presence of a very familiar ki and he tilted his head up, golden eyes focused on the deity who floated several feet above the tree tops nearby. “Botan?” He murmured in surprise, wondering how long she'd been there watching him.

Botan had just cleared the eastern side of the island, returning from Reikai, when her eyes had caught sight of a strange burst of black lightning. It had felt dark... but... intriguing and she sensed a large energy spike that felt a bit like Kurama's only more dense and more powerful and so she had changed directions, her curiosity getting the better of her and she zoomed above the tree tops, coming to a hovering stop as she watched a black mist dissipate, her eyes widening in shock at what she saw. There, standing in a very small clearing, was a fox youkai with long silver hair and golden eyes that looked back at her in surprise. His features were instantly recognizable and her breath caught in her throat as she realized who it was. “Kurama?” She whispered in awe. He was even more beautiful than she had imagined but also infinitely more dangerous and she hesitated to come any closer to him.

Youko felt her fear and trepidation, knowing her instinct would warn her to keep away from him in this form. Understandable. He thought. But you need not fear me, Botan. I would never harm you, even as I am now. “It is alright, Botan,” He called out. “You can come down here if you wish, I promise to behave.”

Botan blushed at his teasing tone, finding his deeper voice just as pleasant as his softer one and she did as he suggested, guiding her oar down on the opposite side of the clearing. She approached him cautiously, feeling a bit nervous at the way his gold eyes studied her yet his posture was non-threatening and he made no move towards her. She stopped before him, asking, “Kurama? Is it really you?”

Youko remained still as he watched her walk towards him, not wanting to scare her away though a bit of a smirk tugged at his lips as he replied, “Last time I checked that was my name, Botan.”

The deity moved closer still, tilting her neck back to study him more closely, awed at how much larger he was in youkai form. “You're very tall...”

He laughed softly, looking down at her, noting how surprised she was of his appearance. “And you're still as lovely as ever, Botan.” He replied.

The ferry girl blushed but didn't look away, reaching out to touch the stands of silver against the kitsune's neck. “How is this possible?” She asked, her gaze shifting when the fox spirit pointed down, her eyes falling on a round glass container.

“The fruit of the previous life potion makes this possible,” He answered, watching as the girl picked it up and studied the contents. “With this transformation, I can defeat Karasu, but I must do several test runs before I know for sure how long the effects last.”

Botan frowned, looking up from the container back to Youko. “But this fruit can only be found in the upper realms of Reikai. It's illegal to be here in the human world due to the unstable nature of it's genetic makeup.”

Kurama frowned. “Unstable nature?”

“Yes, it can cause permanent psychosis or addiction in those of a weaker constitution, though I don't believe that will happen to you,” She replied. “You're too strong to let it affect you in that way and I certainly will not report your usage of it, but I admit I am worried about any unknown side effects.”

“Well, you need not worry,” Youko replied. “I am only using it for the match tomorrow. I will have no use for it after that.”

Botan tilted her head. “You don't want to change into Youko after this tournament is over?”

“No,” Kurama said in a low tone. “I like who I am, I like living as a human and I want to continue living a human life until my mother passes on. Becoming Youko will put a strain on my growing bonds to Ningenkai and I'm not willing to lose all that for greater power.”

The deity smiled at his answer, her heart relieved at his words. “You're very beautiful, do you know that, Kurama?”

The kitsune tilted his head, watching as the girl lowered the container back to the ground. “I've been called many things in this form, Botan, beautiful is not one of them.” He countered in a lower voice though there was no malice or tone in his words.

The deity looked up at him, favoring him with a smile, eyes twinkling. “Well, to me you are beautiful in body and spirit, so there!”

He blinked at her bubbly statement but gave her a slight smile, making a waving motion towards the girl's outfit. “So you're just coming back from Reikai, I take it?”

Botan looked down at her clothing then back at him, her happy features falling, a deep sadness in her eyes and heart as she lowered her gaze. “I took Genkai home, yesterday.”

Kurama frowned at the pain he felt radiating from her, surprisingly more aware of her emotions in this form. “Did Koenma order you to ferry her to Reikai?” He asked in a deceptively soft tone.

“He asked me to, but said the choice was mine. I felt it... only right that I be the one to take her.”

“Still... that had to be hard for you... Genkai will be missed... especially by Yusuke...”

Botan kept her gaze lowered, tears springing to her eyes, her feelings over Genkai's death rising to the surface, voice filled with grief as she cried. “Why did she have to die? Why did it have to be like this?”

Youko's brow furrowed at her crying. Though his body had returned to his true form, his feelings and his heart remained the same in regards to her and he felt the pain in her tears. “Botan...”

The deity wiped at her eyes with a shaky hand, unable to stop the tears from falling. “I'm sorry... I shouldn't be crying... but Genkai was my friend and to have her die like she did wasn't fair at all...”

Youko felt conflicted at what to do. He knew the girl's heart was crying out for comfort yet he was not the most loving person in this form. But Botan is in need of someone to listen and understand her pain. She came to me and I am willing to share the burden with her. Slowly, the kitsune reached out, pulling the girl to him, wrapping his arms carefully around her.

Botan felt Youko's arms go around her, surprised at the gentleness of the action, feeling very small against his large frame and for some reason she felt safe and she cried even harder, letting out her grief, drawing from his strength as she clung to the sleeveless yukata wrapped around his torso.

Kurama held her close, knowing what she needed in that moment, allowing her to cry without comment, waiting to loosen his hold until the deity slowly pulled back. He looked down at her reddened eyes, reaching out with a careful touch to wipe away her tears. “I know it was hard for you to do your duty over this,” He began in a low but soft voice. “Koenma has asked much of you... too much in my opinion, but I understand why you decided to take Genkai to Spirit World. But Botan, you must always remember that your feelings are only natural... never be ashamed of crying over the loss of a loved one or dear friend. It's what makes us... human... is it not?”

Botan listened to him, relaxing at his touch, blinking slowly as a small smile tugged at her lips at his last words. “Yes... that is true...” She replied, watching as the kitsune lowered his arms to his side. “Thank you... for taking the time to listen to me... I know... I'm just a silly ferry girl... but I am grateful just the same.”

He gave her a small smile. “Anything for you, Botan...” He murmured, chuckling a bit at the surprised look on her face before his features grew more serious. “Now then... I know you have traveled far and must be a bit wore out. Perhaps you should go find the other girls and wait for everyone's return.”

Botan was surprised at his words but nodded, sensing he needed time alone to train and she pivoted around, heading back into the clearing, stopping as Kurama called out in a softer tone. “Please use your oar to travel, Botan. There are things in these woods that will hurt you and I cannot abide losing you. Especially to them.” She looked over to him, watching as he sat back down, arms crossed and eyes closed in concentration.

The deity turned back, materializing her oar, sliding on and rising into the sky, looking down one last time at the kitsune before heading off towards the hotel for some food and a change of clothing.

May 6, 1993 Evening

After several test runs, the kitsune at last figured out the duration and the best method to use his power in the limited time span and so he sought out the other members of the team, finding them at the water's edge, Yusuke aglow in a strong sphere of blue energy. Hiei and Kuwabara also had increased their power in the short time given them and Kurama felt hope in their chances to win tomorrow. We can do this, I know we can. The red head turned his attention to Yusuke when Kuwabara asked about the masked fighter, avoiding the answer by stating she wasn't feeling well, though Kurama knew the truth. He looked away, remembering Botan's tears and her sadness, wanting to check up on her. “I'm heading to the hotel... I will see the rest of you there...”

Going to visit your ferry girl? Hiei sent out to his friend in a teasing voice, having witnessed images in the kitsune's mind in regards to consoling Botan.

Her name is Botan, Hiei, and yes, I am, what of it? He sent back, turning around to walk the way he came.

Nothing... just don't let her keep you up too late.. you'll need your rest for tomorrow.

Yes, mother. He replied, laughing inwardly at the growl he heard as the fire demon send back,

Stupid fox!

He made his way to the hotel and up to the eighth floor, entering the common room, finding four sets of eyes staring back at him and he knew from their questioning looks they were worried about their family and loved ones. “Sorry to keep you ladies waiting,” He began. “The others will be here shortly, I assure you. So before they do, shall we order dinner for everyone?”

Botan studied Kurama, able to feel that the strength of his ki, even in his human body, had grown in such a short period of time. Hope filled her at this fact, knowing that if the kitsune had grown in power, then so to, had the rest of the boys. But the fear of losing him remained in her mind and it was hard not to talk to him about it. I will wait until later, when we have a bit of time to ourselves.

The rest of Team Urameshi entered the room 20 minutes later and the who group ate dinner together when it arrived before retiring for the evening. Kurama walked with Botan to her room, voice soft. “Do you wish to stay in your room or mine tonight, Botan?”

The deity blinked, surprised at the question, her face turning bright red. “What?”

The kitsune tilted his head at her embarrassed look, repeating his question. “Your room or mine, Botan? Where do you wish to sleep?”

She remembered their conversation from a few days ago and she tapped her forehead lightly with her knuckles. “Duh... I forgot... um... your room is fine, Kurama. Just let me get a few things first, okay?”

He gave her a soft smile at her absentmindedness but understood she had been under a lot of stress lately and he nodded. “I will wait right here for you.”

The deity entered her room, quickly returning and Kurama walked her back down the hall, stopping at his room, opening it and moving to the side to let her enter first, following behind her as he shut the door gently, flicking on the light switch so the girl could see better, voice soft as he spoke. “You can have the bed, Botan...” The kitsune walked over to the closet, pulling out a two spare blankets and a pillow, laying them down on the floor near the window. “I'll lay down here.”

Botan watched him, memories playing in her mind as she spoke. “This reminds me of the first time I stayed with you. Do you remember that?”

Kurama rose, smiling, as he turned to her. “I remember. You were rather hard to wake up and I found out you also had a rather hard head.”

Botan pouted a bit though she knew he was teasing. “That's not very nice...”

The kitsune chuckled, raising up his hands in a placating gesture as he sat down in the recliner. “I apologize...”

The deity's pout turned into a soft smile. “It's alright... I know you're just teasing me like you always do,” She replied. “I honestly don't mind that... I prefer it to...” Her voice started then stopped as she looked away.

Kurama frowned at how quiet she became, asking, “Prefer it to what?”

“To your reserved nature...” She answered, turning her gaze back to him. “You have so many walls built up around you that you won't let anyone in, because you don't want others hurt... but I saw flashes of you... the real you... the pain and the darkness... the love and the loneliness... in your eyes and in your voice when you sang to me... when you spent time with me... and I... I am afraid of what is to come of … us... should you die here.”

The kitsune studied her for a moment, impressed and surprised at how close she was to the truth and he looked away, unable to voice his feelings for her.

“It's okay, Kurama...” The deity interjected, sensing his hesitation to speak. “I know we are friends and always will be... I know you can't allow yourself to get too close to me or for me to get too close to you but please know that I care about you... I care about you with all my heart and you must promise me that you won't die...”

“Botan...” He whispered, lowering his gaze, his bangs hiding the pain he was feeling.

“Promise me, Kurama.”

Her voice was insistent, calling to him and he looked up at her, concealing his emotions, answering in a serious voice. “I promise I won't die, Botan but you must promise me something in return.”

“What is it, Kurama?” She asked, her heart relieved at his answer.

“If we fail to win, you must take everyone and leave the island, do not wait for us... survive... for me... can you do this?”

Botan blinked at his request but nodded. “Yes... though I believe in you, Kurama, and in the rest of the team. So long as you live on, so too, will I...”

He felt the walls around his heart shattering and it took all his will not to confess the truth and the depth of his feelings towards her, giving her a smile in place of the pain he felt as he nodded. “As you say, Botan,” Kurama replied, rising up. “We should rest now, don't you agree?”

Botan nodded, rising, heading to the bathroom, holding up her pj's as she spoke. “Yes. Just let me change into these and I'll be all set to sleep.”

Kurama watched her go into the bathroom and close the door, waiting patiently for his turn, smiling at her printed pajamas with little sheep on them, heading in to change himself, hanging up his fighting uniform, slipping on a pair of blue pj pants, exiting the bathroom and shutting off the light as he rounded the bed, laying down on the makeshift bed spread on the floor, covering up as he settled in, voice very soft and gentle. “Goodnight, Botan.”

Botan watched him lay down, sliding under the covers of the bed, nestling into the pillow as she whispered back, “Goodnight, Kurama...”

Kurama fell into a light sleep, still alert for any threats that could come from Karasu, smiling a bit at the gentle sound of Botan's breathing, finding comfort in it as he willed himself to truly rest, Botan dancing in the halls of his mind where only light remained.

May 7, 1993 The Finals

Kurama woke up early, blinking his vision clear, the light of the morning sun flooding the room with waves of warmth and he rubbed his eyes before rising up to stretch. He heard incoherent mumbling from behind him and he turned, curious emerald orbs falling on lovely features of the ferry girl as she rolled in her sleep then nestled her head deeper into the pillow. He remained still for a moment, recalling her words from last night and he felt a tenderness in his heart that he allowed to poke through the defensive walls and his features softened. “Botan...” He whispered, understanding her fear for him. This is why I must win today. So that we can return home together without fear of death or harm from our enemies.

The kitsune crouched down, neatly folding the blankets he had used then stood up, sitting the blankets on the dresser, laying the pillow on top before he headed into the bathroom. After relieving himself , the red head cleaned up, dressing in his yellow and white fighting outfit. Exiting the bathroom, he turned off the light, heading over to the closet to retrieve his black slip on shoes. Kurama slid them on, moving over to the night stand where the glass container sat and he carefully picked it up, holding it to his side as he rounded back to the bed where the deity lay asleep. He looked down at her, smiling softly. Sleeping in as usual. He thought with a inward chuckle.

Kurama reached out with his free hand, tenderly brushing away the long blue strands that stuck to the side of her face and neck. The red head's fingertips caressed her skin, his voice very soft as he whispered, “Rest well, Peony. I will see you soon.” Slowly, the kitsune withdrew his hand and pivoted around, exiting his room, closing the door quietly behind him as he stepped into the hall. Kurama headed down to the lobby, finding the rest of the team already waiting for him.

You're late. Did your ferry girl keep you up all night? Hiei said telepathically to the taller youkai.

Kurama quirked an eyebrow. Botan, Hiei.. that's her name... and no, she did not keep me up all night, He sent back. I merely wanted to clean up before coming downstairs.

Hn... Hiei replied. I don't see the point of it when you'll just have to clean up later after your fight. But whatever, let's just get going.

Yusuke looked between the two demons, knowing they were communicating silently and he called out to the kitsune. “Hey, Kurama, are you ready to go?”

The red head turned his attention over to the head detective, nodding. “I am ready.”

“Good.” Yusuke said, features growing determined. “Then let's go kick some ass.”

Team Urameshi walked as one out of the hotel and down the path that led to the new stadium, their combined power radiating in it's intensity and the many demons standing in the pathway gave the gang a wide berth as the group closed in on the tunnel that led to the arena.

The Hotel

Botan woke up to silence, her vision a bit blurry and so she rubbed her eyes, sitting up, voice groggy as she called out, “Kurama?” Lowering her hand, the deity looked around, surprised to find him gone and she checked the time, jumping up out of bed. Oh no, if I don't hurry I'll be late for the start of the fights! The ferry girl took off her pj's, yanking her light blue jeans on and quickly buttoned up her pink long sleeve shirt before racing over to slip on her white tennis shoes. She slowed down, cracking open the kitsune's room door, poking her head outside, finding no one in the corridor and she slid out into the hall, quietly closing the door only to freeze at the sound of Koenma's voice behind her.

“Botan? What the hell were you doing in Kurama's room?”

The deity turned around to face her boss, rambling in her nervousness. “It's.. It's not what you think it is, Koenma, sir... you see there was a youkai who threatened to kill me and Kurama was just watching over me... that's all... really... nothing happened... he slept on the floor even...”

Koenma narrowed his eyes. “Botan... I told you to be careful... and look what happened... even if I do believe you and Kurama was just being protective of you by letting you sleep in his room, do you realize how it looks to have you sneaking out of the very same room, rather than informing me of your safety concerns?”

“I realize how it looks but really... nothing happened... He's my friend and he wanted to keep me safe... nothing more than that... So please don't punish him for doing what you'd want him to do anyway..”

“What I'd want him to do anyway?”

“Yes... You'd want him to keep my safe...” Botan said as she studied her boss. He seemed to have something strapped to his back and she changed the subject. “Uh... Lord Koenma, what is that under your cape?”

Jr. blinked at her question then made a motion with his hand. “It's nothing to worry about... needless to say, we should get going, the fight is about to start and I need to be down ringside.”

“Ringside? What for?” Botan asked, following her boss, in step with his stride as he answered,

“The finals require that each team have five members. Since Genkai is no longer... able to be that fifth member, I am taking her place.”

“You... on the team... fighting?” She said, looking over at her boss skeptically.

“Of course not you blue haired ninny!” Koenma snapped then sighed. “I'm merely there to allow for Team Urameshi to fight... As the owner it is my duty to be down there and I'm sure Sakyo will be the fifth member for Team Toguro and trust me, neither of us will be doing any physical fighting.”

The deity snickered at the image of her boss trying to fight.

“What's so funny?” He demanded, looking over at her with glaring eyes.

“Oh nothing...” She replied as she rode the elevator down with her boss. “Just that I'm glad that this is almost over and we can go home.”

“Don't get too excited, Botan. This final battle could be the last for our team. It's still very possible for them to die out there,” He warned then added. “It will be too dangerous for you to be down ringside so stay in the stands with the girls. I'll have George there as well to keep you safe should a riot or worse break out.”

“Very well, Koenma, sir,” Botan replied, exiting into the lobby and she took off ahead of him, heading for the new stadium, hoping to meet up with the rest of the girls, finding them standing outside and she waved. “Hey girls!”

“Look who woke up from their nap...” Shizuru commented as she watched the blue haired girl rush towards them. “Hey, Botan, did you bring the tickets?”

The deity stopped, blinking. “Tickets?” Memory returned to her and she gasped. “Oh no! I forgot to buy tickets for today's fight!”

“Botan! How do you forget something like that?!” Keiko exclaimed looking over at her friend in shock.

“Well I... I had a bit of trouble these past two days and it just... slipped my mind... I'm sorry...” Botan replied softly as she lowered her gaze.

Shizuru studied the girl for a moment then looked around, her eyes falling on the ticket scalper who was with Koenma on the first day of the fights. “Don't worry about it, Botan... I've got an idea...”

Five minutes and four tickets later, the girls entered the stadium, taking their seats in the upper deck, eyes glued ringside, waiting for the fights to begin.

The Stadium Team Urameshi Entrance

Kurama stood with the rest of his team, eyes closed in contemplation. He had taking a larger dosage than usual just prior to their walk to the ringside entrance doors, knowing it took at least 5-10 minutes for the potion to take affect. I know Karasu will offer himself to fight first which will work with the time limit I have discovered with this potion. I will face him and I will win. But in order to even begin the fight, I need to know something. “A question...” He spoke, breaking the silence between the four men, his words directed at Yusuke. “Did you arrange a substitute for Genkai?”

“I did,” Yusuke replied. “But the little twerp should have been here by now.”

“I don't get why Genkai can't just be here to fight.” Kuwabara commented, his arms crossed as he looked down at his best friend.

“I told you, she's sick and can't fight, alright, so just drop it.”

Kuwabara noticed how sad and angry his friend's tone was and he was about to ask why when the stadium doors suddenly rumbled open, shaking the floor and surrounding walls and the four men looked around, walking out into the enclosed arena, ignoring the taunts and curses tossed their way, coming to a stop as a group at the outer edge of the ring. Toguro's team entered next, coming to a stop opposite of Urameshi's team and ki's flared, a visual display of anger and power, Yusuke and Toguro's the brightest. Kurama met Karasu's gaze and he glared at the masked youkai, anger festering in his heart, though he kept it under control. Sakyo came out for Toguro's team before Koenma finally arrived for Urameshi's team, complete with sound effects and a device that would allow him to escape and Kurama shook his head. I can't believe we work for this guy.

Juri called for the first fighters to step up and Kurama turned his attention back to the ring, his eyes watching as Karasu jumped up and the kitsune stopped Kuwabara from entering, voice soft. “This one is mine to fight.”

“Uh... okay, Kurama...” Kuwabara replied then asked. “You took some of that potion stuff, right?”

“I did... and I should transform soon. Once I do, I'll have 15 minutes before I return to my human form but I'm not worried. 15 minutes is more than enough time to deal with Karasu.” But it may take a bit before I shift into Youko. Until then I will have to stall for time. He added silently, strolling into the center of the ring, stopping in front of the masked demon.

“Alright everyone, the finals are set to start and the first match has been chosen between Karasu and Kurama! Let the fight, begin!”

“I have to give you a bit of credit, Kurama, in keeping Botan safe from me,” Karasu began, his purple orbs watching the kitsune intently. “However, all you've done is delay my play time with her. I had hoped to have the two of you together for my own amusement but it seems I'll have to make you suffer first... And she'll get to watch each bloody second.”

Kurama glared at the masked demon. “You will not touch her,” He countered, opening his hands, rose petals swirling around him. “I am going to stop you here and now so that you never harm another living soul again.”

“Brave words, but I wonder if you have the ability to back them up.”

“We'll soon see, won't we?” Kurama replied, letting loose the petals, their razor sharp edge lethal and he frowned, watching as the petals exploded. What? He can make things explode without touching them?

“Did you think I had to touch something in order for them to explode?” Karasu taunted, lifting his hand as he continued. “Poor Kurama... unable to see my power so you feel safe... well, let me enlighten you, hmm?” The dark haired youkai leapt into the air, diving down, lunging at the kitsune with sweeps of his hand, laughing softly as the red head barely managed to dodge. “My, my, you move quite well in that human body of yours but how long can you keep this up before I make contact.”

Kurama avoided the masked demon's attacks, jumping into the air, bringing his rose whip to life, frowning as it exploded into green bits. I don't understand. The potion should have kicked in by now. If I don't change soon, Karasu will indeed finish me off.

“You can't stop me but you continue to try just the same, that's what's so appealing about you...” Karasu whispered seductively. “It's a shame things couldn't be different for us and with Botan in the mix, it would have been great fun indeed.”

Kurama stared at the youkai in disgust. “You're depraved and delusional, Karasu.”

Karasu laughed. “Perhaps... but the fact remains that I will kill you and enjoy every second of it. In fact I can hardly wait to hear you scream...” He replied, attacking the kitsune again.

Kurama dodged the vicious slashes aimed at his face, leaping away only to gasp in shock as an explosion erupted on his left arm, then his left leg and the red head grit his teeth, his skin burned though it remained intact. He watched as the taller youkai held up his right hand.

“What I'm holding in my hand cannot be seen but it's very real and very dangerous, so pay close attention, Kurama, I wouldn't want you to miss what I have in store for you.”

The red head gasped as a ball of green light erupted in Karasu's palm, manifesting into some kind of bomb and the youkai leaped up into the air, tossing it down and Kurama held up his arm defensively. I need to transform, now, now, NOW! A massive explosion went off, sending debris everywhere, smoke swirling around the spot where the kitsune stood and Karasu leapt back, skidding to a stop as he rose.

In the stands, Botan watched with growing fear as Kurama proved no match for Karasu. Her eyes widened in shock and grief at the explosion, tears welling up in her eyes. Please, God. I already took one person to Reikai that I love, please do not make me take another... Please not him... Please be alive, Kurama! Her mind begged, her body shaking in pain only to sense a sudden change in the air. Black lightning erupted and hope filled her again. I know this power... It's Youko's! The black smoke dissipated, revealing Kurama's true form and Botan grinned, despite the situation. Okay, Kurama! You can beat him now! I know you can!

Youko stared with contemptuous gold eyes at Karasu, his face and arms cut up from the attack though he was otherwise unharmed. Just in time. He thought as he spoke, his voice lower and deeper than his human tone. “So you create something out of nothing, do you, Karasu? That's quite a talent you have, though you won't be able to defeat me as you are now.”

“I wouldn't get too cocky,” Karasu countered though he felt a bit leery of this demon before him. “We're still not equals.” He lifted his hands, creating two living bombs and motioned them to attack.

Youko smirked, voice patronizing. “On that, we agree...” His eyes were now able to see the cause of the explosions and he spoke. “So you make little bombs do you:? How interesting,” Reaching behind his neck, the fox spirit drew out two roses, flicking them into the bombs, stopping them well short of hitting him, the contact resulting in twin explosions. “But still, it won't be effective against me in this form. I can finish you now and end this.”

“That's amusing... you finish me... I doubt you can do it...” Karasu held up his hands creating an army of bat bombs. “But you're welcome to try...”

Kurama leapt up into the air, gracefully dodging the flying menace that sought to blow him up, landing onto the ring, looking up as he was surrounded. “You should know better than to corner a fox, Karasu. We have a tendency to show our teeth.”

The ring around Kurama exploded, rock debris flying into the air, striking the trace bombs that surround him, plants sprouting in their place, undulating upward, swinging and eliminating the remaining strange monsters, explosions ripping in the air until no more bombs presented themselves. He saw the look of shock on his enemy's face and smirked. “Be careful Karasu, you've found yourself in over your head,” Youko taunted, sensing movement to his left and he turned his gaze, finding the little female referee from earlier and growled out a warning. “You... unless you want to be plant food, don't move.”

The kitsune sent out his silent command and the plants attacked, chasing Karasu all over the ring, spitting out acid and Kurama watched, amused at the sight. That's right pathetic vermin. Run. Keep running, the more you run the easier it will be to catch you and crush you to death. I will make you pay for your threats to Botan and for your twisted obsession with me. “Seems you're in quite the dilemma, Karasu. Better find a smart way to kill it or else... bang!” Kurama taunted, pointing his right index finger to his temple, mocking him back for the earlier taunt to start the match.

The plants finally honed in on the crow demon and Youko turned a cold eye on the sight of Karasu caught and crushed by his plants, his mask bursting away from his mouth as he was consumed. “Hmm... pity... I had hoped he'd live a bit longer. I wanted to toy with my prey a bit more...” Youko stalked towards the edge of the ring, stopping when he felt a rise in ki and he whirled around, frowning as his plants exploded and a now blond Karasu appeared, drawing in the air around him. What is this? He wondered, lifting his gaze as the crow demon leaped up, charging down, laughing manically and a great explosion ripped through the entirety of the ring, sending the rest of Team Urameshi spiraling backwards into the air, the resulting blast destroying a quarter of the stadium.

Botan gasped in total shock at the turn of events. Kurama! Her mind screamed as she rose, blinking as she watched the rubble move and the kitsune emerge, though he was once again in his human form. You're alive! Thank goodness!

Kurama rose, troubled at the shift back into his human body. What is going on? The potion was supposed to last longer than this. For some reason, it's effects are weakening every time I use it. He lifted his head, finding Karasu looking down at him.

“Hmm... back to that form again, I see. Well, I must say I quite prefer your look as a human anyway, something about that fiery red hair of yours is rather arousing.” He said, smirking down at the boy. “I suppose I'll finish you off now so that you can meet your maker and I can move on to Botan.”

Kurama growled, anger rising in his heart at the crow demon's words “Karasu...” He snarled jumping up, the kitsune flipped into the ring, using his skills in martial arts to launch an all out attack, trying to distract his opponent, shooting out a death plant, striking Karasu in the chest.

The crow demon sighed, reaching up and pulling the sprouting bud out of his skin. “Really, Kurama, that's the best you can do? You can't beat me with these little tricks of yours,” He laughed and tossed the seed away. “Now it's time to play, I think.”

The kitsune glared at Karasu, taking a defensive stance as the youkai lifted his hand and he snapped his gaze down as he felt a clamp snap onto his left leg, eyes widening as he realized what was going to happen. No! His mind shouted as the explosion went off, more powerful and more deadly that the earlier attack. Fabric blew off, skin and muscle ripped apart from the attack and pain erupted from the red head's throat as he collapsed forward, catching himself with his hands, struggling to rise.

“Kurama, don't move, you're surrounded by bombs!” Yusuke shouted.

The kitsune lifted his gaze, eyes widened in alarm at the vast amount of green orbs that hovered nearby, shifting his attention back to the approaching Karasu who stalked towards him.

“This entire fight has been an exercise in futility.” The crow demon taunted. “You're tired, you're weak, you're pathetic.. But it seems you have a masochistic streak that needs indulging, so I'll give you what you need.” With a flick of his hand, the green orbs crashed into Kurama, explosions ripping apart his body until he was a bloody mess.

Botan stared in transfixed horror as the one she cared about most was slowly being killed. Kurama, please, you... you can't die... you promised you wouldn't die! She looked down at Shizuru who spoke,

“Karasu is such a bastard. It's obvious he's just playing with Kurama now. I wish he would just end this.”

“I don't ever want you hear you say that again, Shizuru,” Botan replied, hands clenched into fists, anger replacing her fear. “Kurama will beat him. He can't die... he can't.. I lost one person I love to Toguro's team, I will not lose another!”

The pain was almost too much to bear but the kitsune would not relent and he rose up, blood splattering down onto the ring as he bled out profusely. I cannot lose this match. I must win, I must... save Botan from you... Even if.. I must give up my life to do so.. I will do it gladly... His gaze shifted to the wound on the crow demon's chest and he knew what to do. If... I use my life energy ... I can summon a blood sucking plant that will kill you instantly... and free the world of your wickedness...

He cried out as Karasu launched another attack of bombs, his body collapsing from the massive damage, his entire form stained red from the viciousness of the explosions. He heard the count and he pushed up off the ground, still alive though barely, his mind reeling though he grew determined. I have no time left, I must do this now! Kurama lay his hand on the ring, summoning the last of his life energy, his body glowing purple and he roared, a strange looking plant sprouting up and over him, needle like buds slamming into Karasu's chest, piercing through skin and bone, stabbing his heart, draining the crow demon of his blood.

What... how... how did he manage... to do.. this... Where the last of Karasu's thoughts before he collasped back, drained dry of his blood, a plant growing over him, consuming him.

Kurama collapsed, his body too weak and his life force fading.

Botan sensed it, tears springing in her eyes. “Kurama... please.. get up...”

“Oh no... I sense.. he.. do you think he's dead?” Yukina asked.

“Kurama can't die, he just can't!” Botan countered.

Shizuru sighed. “Botan... I know how you feel about Kurama... but you have to accept it... He sacrificed his life to kill Karasu...”

Botan looked back down into the ring, her mind understanding his reason, though her heart would not accept it. Oh, Kurama... you... why did you do that? ... you promised me... you promised me you would live... so get up... get up for me.. please... don't die... I don't want you to die.. Please come back to me... Please...

Get up... Get up for me.. please don't die.. I don't want you to die.. Please come back to me.. Please.. Kurama heard those words in his mind as he lay still, dying. Botan.. She's calling out to me.. calling to me... I promised her I would return to her... that I would not die.. I will not die.. I will not die here! His hand twitched and he felt life returning to him. Eyelids fluttered open and he willed himself to stand, looking around for the ferry girl, finding her in the crowd, their eyes meeting and holding he saw the tears of joy fall from her face and he gave her a reassuring smile.

Botan saw him rise up, felt his energy return to him, though it was weak and she nearly collapsed from the stress of watching him so close to death. Thank God, he's alive! She cried happy tears, relieved at the sight of him standing, her knees giving way and she sat back down to hide the weakness she felt, her heart calming at his smile.

Kurama turned his attention back to Juri who proclaimed Karasu the winner even though he died, explaining that the kitsune was down for longer than 10 seconds. His friends were more upset than he was. It's true I should have won this battle but I killed the bastard. He will never be able hurt Botan or anyone else again. He looked down at his ruined clothing, his exposed skin and muscle slowly regenerating. The bleeding has stopped but I can do little to heal these wounds until after the finals, if we manage to survive that is.

Botan could see the damage done to Kurama's body all the way up from where she was. His body was weakened, his skin and muscle were bruised and torn. The ferry girl longed to go down there and heal him but Koenma has ordered her to remain in the stands. When this is over, I will heal him before anything else. But the others must win first. And win they did, Yusuke finally defeating Toguro after much struggle and she jumped for joy, celebrating their freedom only to cry out when the stadium began to shake.

Kurama remained standing, watching each match, relief filing him as Yusuke defeated Toguro, frowning as the stadium began to shake and a barrier shot up around the entire outside of the stadium. Botan! His mind cried, looking up in the stands for the deity, finding her with the other girls as the crowd screamed and panicked, running in all directions. He turned his attention back to Yusuke who struggled to stand and he went over, helping him up, watching as Kuwabara barreled through the crowd, trying to get to Yukina though it was Hiei who saved her from falling debris. They all managed to make it up to where the girls were and proceeded to run for their lives, escaping with the help of Chu who broke down the rock barrier and everyone escaped, Botan standing next to Kurama as they watched the stadium collapse.

Kurama held Yusuke, turning at the sound of the Keiko's voice, noting the look of joy and concern on the girl's features for the head detective and he carefully passed the boy off to her, smiling as the two humans slowly headed back towards the hotel. He sensed the deity looking over at him, shock visible on her lovely features and he knew she was assessing his wounds. “It's not as bad as it looks, Botan, I promise.”

With the danger finally over, the ferry girl had focused her attention on Kurama, inspecting his injuries more closely and her heart broke at the severe damage visible under the ruined fabric. The dried blood staining the entirety of his uniform was disturbing by itself but his exposed muscle and torn flesh was even more shocking. How did he manage to survive such devastating injuries? “It looks pretty bad to me, Kurama,” She countered. “You're going to need a lot of healing to repair the damage done to your body.”

“I know...” He replied, studying her with softer eyes as he asked, “Will you help me to heal, Botan?”

The deity blushed at the way he asked the question wondering why such simple words made her her heart flutter. “That's the plan, fox,” She replied, using her bubbly mask to ease the sudden shyness she felt at the way he studied her. “So shall we head to the hotel to get you fixed up?”

He tilted his head as he heard her heart rate jump, wondering why that was but did not question it as he nodded. “A good idea.”

The pair headed up the pathway with slow steps, the kitsune wincing on more than one occasion and Botan looked over at him in concern. “Are you in a lot of pain, Kurama?”

The kitsune looked over to her, seeing the concern in the ferry girl's beautiful features and he felt a desire to ease her worry. “I admit I'm rather...sore... but I will survive, so you need not worry about me.”

“But I can't help worrying over you, Kurama.” She replied, reaching out to touch his hand.

Kurama felt her fingertips caress the top of his hand and he smiled softly, surprising them both by gently taking her hand in his “I know...” He whispered, walking with the deity hand in hand as they entered the hotel, traveling up to the eighth floor. Reluctantly he released his hold, stopping with the girl before room 805.

“Just let me grab my kit and I'll get to work on those wounds of yours.”

Kurama nodded. “I'll wait here for you,” He replied, standing at post as the girl disappeared into her room then emerged a few seconds later. The two of them walked down the hall to Kurama's room and the kitsune opened it, motioning her to enter first before following behind her. He shut the door quietly, flicking on the light switch as he moved past her. “Is this enough light for you?”

“I believe so,” She replied, studying his ruined clothing. “Now we just need to get you out of those clothes and you'll be good as new..”

He quirked an eyebrow at her words, voice teasing. “Shall I strip for you now or do you want to help?”

Botan blushed bright red as she realized what she said, flustered as she retorted. “You know what I meant, Kurama... I swear you're as bad as Yusuke sometimes...” She grumbled.

He laughed softly at her reaction, going over to the brown bag in the closet, rummaging through it, retrieving a pair of black boxer briefs and blue shorts. “I do know... but sometimes you make it too easy, Botan...” He turned back to her, seeing her pout. “It's rather cute when you get so flustered... I can't help but to tease you... besides...” He paused, eyes twinkling a bit. “You said it yourself last night that you prefer my teasing nature...”

She grumbled but her eyes danced with mirth. “Hmph... not all the time, Kurama... just every once in a while...”

“Ah... in moderation.. I understand...” He headed towards the bathroom, voice softer. “I'll be out in a minute, Botan...”

The deity watched him enter the bathroom, listening to the water run, frowning as she heard a loud hiss followed by what sounded like curse words coming from behind the closed door wondering what was going on with the kitsune.

Kurama stripped off his ruined clothing, turning on the water and stepped inside, wincing in pain at the stinging sensation of very warm water stabbing against his broken body. “Dammit, that hurts!” He hissed out loud, clenching his jaw as he looked down, the once clear water stained red from the blood that washed off his torn skin and muscle. He turned, gritting his teeth has the water pelted his back, shaking a bit at the intensity of the pain but he remained standing, cleaning off all the crimson fluid stuck to his skin before shutting off the water and stepping out. He dried off as carefully as he could, sliding on his boxer briefs, a gasp of breath escaping his lungs as the fabric dragged along the injuries to his legs, the extended fabric constrictive on the injuries close to his groin. But I will not embarrass her by asking for help there. I will heal it in my own time. His shorts followed next and he opened the door, heading out into the bedroom, naked save for the shorts and he heard the girl gasp.

The deity rose at the sight of Kurama, a horrified expression on her face. “Oh my God...” She gasped, hands trembling at the sight of his damaged body. There wasn't a spot of skin that wasn't bruised, torn, or gouged by the dozens of little bombs the crow demon had attacked the kitsune with. “Look what Karasu did to you...” She added, her heart breaking for the condition the man she cared about most was in.

Kurama watched the tears form in the deity's eyes at the sight of his body. I should not have let her see me like this. I do not want her in pain, especially over me. “I'm sorry, Botan. Perhaps it would be better if I headed down to the nurse's station...”

“No!” Boan interjected quickly, blushing as the kitsune quirked an eyebrow, studying her intently. “I mean... I want to help you, Kuraam.. Please let me help you..”

“Very well,” He conceded. “How would you like to begin the healing process?”

Botan's features turned a bit thoughtful. “well... you're obviously sore, so I think I should heal your back first so that you can lay down without too much discomfort.”

Kurama nodded, holding still as the deity moved around and reached up, blue light erupting from her palm as she slowly began the healing process, working from his right shoulder over to his left, muscle reforming, skin mending and sealing, each wound closing as she focused her healing ki directly into his body. Her touch was gentle, her energy weaving with his own, making it stronger and he closed his eyes, stifling the groan in his throat at how warm and soothing her ki felt.

Botan slowly pulled away, inspecting her work, voice soft as she spoke. “Okay... I think you can lay down now...”

Kurama did as she directed, laying down on his back, looking up at the girl as her hands hovered over his chest, repeating the process on his torso. He saw the tears in her eyes and he frowned. “Botan... What's wrong?”

The deity kept her gaze cast downward as she answered. “What happened to you is wrong, Kurama.. you shouldn't of had to suffer like this... all for the sake of this tournament... I care about you, Kurama... When I saw you fall, I felt you dying... and I was afraid... and angry... I could not lose you... I refused to lose you... I wanted you to get up... to win... to return to me like you promised...”

He heard the pain in her voice and he reached out, resting his hand over hers, stilling it, his voice soft and laced with emotion as he whispered. “I was dying, Botan, you were right... I had no choice but to use my life energy to kill Karasu... If I had failed... he would have came after you next... would have tortured you... raped you... killed you... In that moment, I no longer cared about winning, Botan... I only had one desire... to destroy Karasu so that he would never have the chance to hurt you. And...” He paused, hesitating a few seconds before adding, “I heard you, Botan... I heard your voice calling out to me, telling me to get up and to come back to you like I promised... I knew I could not die here... not when you were waiting for me... so that we could go home... together...”

She listened, shock on her features. “You... You heard me?”

“Yes...” He replied, voice and features tender. “Thank you, Botan.. your kindness and your concern brought me back to you...”

She looked up at him, her heart melting at the expression on his beautiful face and the deity felt very shy suddenly, lowering her head to hide the blush on her cheeks, though a smile tugged at her lips. “Anything for you, Kurama..”

The kitsune smiled, closing his eyes, slowly retracting his hand, resting his arm back at his side.

No more words were spoken and none were needed as the deity continued to heal Kurama, the red head falling asleep and the deity did not mind the silence, knowing the fox spirit was worn out and in need of rest. She carefully bandaged what she could, rising, a bit dizzy from using so much of her ki though she managed to grab a blanket to lay over the kitsune, caressing his cheek as she whispered. “Goodnight fox. I will see you in the morning.” Botan crept out Kurama's room, closing the door quietly behind her, heading back to her room in need of rest, passing out as soon as her head hit the pillow.

May 8, 1993 Departure

Kurama woke up feeling refreshed, smiling at the bandages wrapped around his arms and legs, impressed with the deity's work and he rose, dressing and packing his things, meeting the rest of the group in the common room. He had hoped to find Botan there but Kuwabara mentioned something about a beach walk and he frowned. Though the danger was over, he still didn't like the fact that the deity was unprotected with so many youkai around. Something gray flew up to the window and the kitsune turned, blinking at the sight of Yusuke's spirit animal.

“Oh hey, Puu, where have you been?” Yusuke said softly, opening the window. “Patch me through to grandma will you? I want to tell her I won the tournament..”

When Puu merely stared up at the detective, Yusuke frowned, turned him upside down and sideways. “Come on... it must work like an antenna right?”

“Yusuke...” Kurama said softly, drawing the shorter man's attention. “That's not how it works.. I know you miss Genkai... but she cannot hear you from where she currently is.. It's time to accept her death and move on...”

The head detective scowled, voice full of irritation. “You heard fox boy! It's time to move on... yeah.. that's just freaking great! Let's leave this stupid island then!”

Kurama sighed but kept silent, following the rest of the boys downstairs where the girls now waited for them. His eyes met Botan's and he smiled softly at her, chuckling at her blush and the whole gang left the hotel, following the trail that led down to the dock, stopping as a familiar voice called out,

“Well, excuse me if I'm just a little bit insulted!”

The group turned, a collective gasp then cry of joy at the sight of a very much alive Genkai. Yusuke rushed over to her, his heart soaring in surprise and happiness and Kurama smiled. So that's why Koenma was there... he kept her body safe so that her spirit could return.

The team, now whole, walked down to the dock, boarding the ship, Kurama and Botan moving to stand by the railing as the boat departed, heading back towards the mainland.

“I can't believe we made it, Kurama...” Botan said softly, the ocean breeze tugging at her bangs. “It seems like a lifetime ago... I'm just glad it's truly over...”

“I agree...” The kitsune replied. “Though I fear it will take time to adjust to a normal life once we are home.” His gaze shifted over to Yusuke, already sensing a restlessness in the young human. He'll want to fight... He'll look for challenges... and it'll get him into trouble.. He turned his head back towards Botan when she asked,

“So... I bet you're happy to be returning home. Your mother will be overjoyed to see you and you, her...”

Kurama's features softened. “I have missed her greatly...” He admitted. “And it will be nice to sleep in my own bed for a change without threats of death hanging over my head.”

Botan smiled, looking out towards the water. “We are due for some peace and quiet, after all this...”

Kurama followed her gaze, nodding. “Indeed...” He said with a smile, hoping in his heart that it would last, unaware of the danger that lurked in the shadows, preparing to spring a trap that would nearly kill the one most precious to him and throw their world into chaos.