Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Right Here Waiting For You ❯ Chapter 11 ( Chapter 11 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

~*~*~*Story Start*~*~*~


Minutes passed after the 'amazing' speech that the fox/cat youkai gave, leaving the youkai entertain themselves until the advisors officially started the Tournament. It was easy to tell that the youkai that were in the stands were getting restless. We stood in our doorway that lead to the outside ring, and we could clearly hearing the annoyed shouts coming form the youkai above our heads. Just their voices echoing off the walls were enough to put me on edge, which wasn't good when I was getting pissed. Zeru and Rinku's little conversation with us was still going on in my head, making me even more irritable than I currently had been this morning. I wasn't that bad this morning, but if things keep pissing me off like they are right now, I will have no further reason to keep myself calm.


“Ladies and Gentlemen, my name is Koto, I'll be your cute host for this years Tournament, and it's gonna be a messy one.” The fox/cat girl said smiling. “For those of you who are in the first few rows, rain coats are available.” She informed, the smile still on despite the boo's from the crowed.


I couldn't help but smirk at that, but listened when she continued with more. “And now for this years Guests, Team Urameshi!” Koto gestured towards us.


Upon hearing our team name, all six of us walked out to met our 'adoring' fans. There's nothing like getting booed at, with a nice touch of death threats thrown in there for good measure. However, the four of us kept our eyes straight, looking at the ring with serious and calm expressions. Kuwabara, however, was clearly letting his emotions show. His eyes darted around the whole arena, having them narrowed into an angered gaze. I believe he was wondering why they were booing us, but since he was a ningen he wouldn't really understand how a youkai felt. You see, when a youkai befriends and joins forces with a ningen, they are hated and named as traitors. Since we were partnered with the one and only Yusuke Urameshi, that only made the hate for us even stronger.


“This is sure one heck of a greeting for Special Guests.” Kuwabara frowned. “I don't think these monsters took their grumpy pills today.” He said annoyed, shifting Yusuke higher up on his back.


My eyes narrowed slightly, thinking. *What the fuck are 'Grumpy Pills'?* Knowing a certain little fire youkai was listening. For some reason he likes to pop in and out for no reason. I don't even notice anymore, it's kind of sad to get use to someone invading your mind...


{It's nothing, Onna, he's just being a baka.} A familiar voice said, in his normal tone. Annoyed, as always.


*If you say so.* I pouted slightly, aw I wanted to know.


“It surely isn't pleasant getting called a traitor by creatures of little strength.” Kurama said, although not glancing around at the stands like a certain red haired ningen was.


I shrugged slightly. “Eh, they can talk shit all they want, it's not like their opinion matters anyway.” I said.


“That's good way of looking at it.” Kurama chuckled slightly.


Clearing her voice into the microphone, a sudden hush went over the stadium for a moment, and all the attention went to Koto. “Ok Teams, into the arena!” She ordered, that annoyingly bright smile on her face was still there. I bet her cheeks are hurting... I'm just saying.


Following her 'order' we climbed onto the ring, or jumped is a better word to use in this case. Soon all twelve of us stood, except for Yusuke of course, at the center of the ring, glaring each other down. If it was even possible for us to, the temperature would have dropped twenty degrees by the cold glares we gave each other. I was surprised that Koto didn't even remark about it, but my train of thought was on Zeru. What he did yesterday proved that he had skill, and I knew better than to underestimate an opponent. However, I hope one of the guys figured out how Zeru did that without us even feeling any Spirit Energy, or we could be in some trouble if we fight him. He is, or so I assume, the Team Leader of Rokuyukai, and Team Leaders are always strong.


My eyes flickered over to Rinku, who sent a glare up in Kuwabara's direction, not at him though, at the person he was carrying. His eye narrowed even further, and he asked with a sneer. “Is that big idiot still asleep?”


“Yep,” I nodded. “Because he doesn't see the need to wake up and deal with you weak apparitions. He's saving his precious Energy for the more important matches, fighting any of you would be insulting.” I said casually, my face completely calm, while I was dieing to show the smirk that so badly wanted to be on my lips at this moment.


The whole Rokuyukai Team sent angered glares at me, while I let out my smirk, satisfied that I got under their skin. “I'm guessing I said something mean, huh?.” I asked sarcastically, but shrugged with a sigh. “I'm sorry, but they always say the truth hurts.”


{Onna, stop.} Hiei growled in my head.


I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. *I was only trying to have a little fun.* My mind's voice pouted.


“If we're done.” Koto said, sending me an annoyed look for delaying the Tournament. But when she saw me keep my mouth shut, she put on another smile, and continued. “As always the terms of the fighting of each match can be decided by the Leaders of the two Teams. Of course if the Leaders can't agree we'll default to one on one fights. Determining the winning Team by the most individual wins, make sense?” She asked glancing at all of us.


Everyone on the Rokuyukai Team seemed fine, well except for us, which Kuwabara vocalized. “Not exactly Miss, our Team Leader’s still asleep.” He mumbled the last part, glaring down at the boy on his back.


“Well then Kuwabara,” Kurama spoke up with a smile. “You'll have to be the one to pick.” He said, I had no objections, as long as it was someone I trusted. And yes I trust Kuwabara, ever since he got us passed those fifteen doors back in Maze Castle.


“Really?” Kuwabara asked, shocked.


“I don't want to go to school today, Mom.” Yusuke mumbled in his sleep, making us all stare at him. “Just let Kuwabara be the Leader for the stupid Tournament.” I sweat dropped slightly, that was oddly specific.


Getting a smirk on his lips, Kuwabara looked up from Yusuke's unconscious form. “If that isn't a transfer of power, then I don't know what is. Of course I really don't like the fact that I was the second choice, but oh well.” Looking over at Zeru, his expression turned serious. “Lets do this Tournament terms thing.”


“Poor fool.” Hiei mumbled, watching as Zeru and Kuwabara walked towards one another.


I sweat dropped, turning to him with a blank look on my face. “It's so nice to see how much faith you have in Kuwabara, I knew you two would be friends one day.” I said sarcastically.


“Shut up, Baka Onna.” Hiei glared.


My right eye twitched at him, and I glared with an irk mark. “How many times must I say it? It's Kira.” I growled, it's been how many god damned months and he doesn't even call me my name?! He even calls Yusuke his name, asshole!


“Hn.”


“You would say that.” I mumbled, ignoring him as he rolled his eyes.


However, the short little...conversation ended when I suddenly felt Spirit Energy rise up slightly. Turning towards Zeru and Kuwabara, I could practically feel the electricity crackling between the two. Their heated stares never wavering from each other, and the Spirit Energy that rose was Zeru. From the looks of it, he must have a short temper that could be dangerous if one of us pushes him too far when we fight him. Not good I would believe.


“I don't care how we play this fight, but it's not going to make a difference in the end. Just as long as I have time to enjoy my victory.” Zeru said, his tone and expression emotionless, but he was mocking Kuwabara and us.


“Cocky ass motherfucker.” I spat under my breath.


Kuwabara kept his gaze steady, not showing how that statement affected him. “Lets do this man to man, that's how real men fight after all.” He said just as calmly, but mocking as well.


Raising her hand, all eyes fell on Koto. “Sounds like an agreement, we're looking at one on one.” She announced, and a loud uproar of cheers filled the area as the crowd went wild. Something everyone would expect from low level youkai, thank god I wasn't born on of them. Ick.


“See you there.” Zeru said, his words holding an edge.


Turning back towards his team, Zeru began to walk away, but he stopped short. Looking over his shoulder at Yusuke's unconscious form draped on Kuwabara's back, his eyes narrowed slightly. Turning fully around, his gaze still on Yusuke, Zeru's Spirit Energy spiked again. However, this time, green Spirit Energy formed around his body, illuminating him in the light. Seconds later, flames burst around him, licking the air dangerously. I narrowed my eyes slightly at that, so he was a fire youkai as well, or he at least controls Heat Energy. Glancing at Hiei, I saw him smirk ever so slightly, probably thinking of being Zeru's opponent. Makes sense I guess, I don't want to fight him.


“Check this out ladies and gentlemen, Zeru is admitting flames from his body.” Koto gasped in awe. “Don't you love it?” She asked, turning to the crowd with a smile, getting cheers in return.


Backing up towards us, Kuwabara kept his eyes on Zeru. “His Spirit Energy just shot through the roof. Gee, I hope he's not mad about what I said.” He said mostly to himself, letting a nervous expression pass over his features.


I gave a pat to his arm, saying with a smirk directed at Zeru. “Don't worry Kuwabara, he isn't mad at you. He's just throwing a hissy fit because Yusuke isn't scared of him.” I said mockingly, earning another glare, which I just rolled my eyes. “Oh please, you think that scares me? I have the master of glares right over here, you'll have to try harder than that to even think of scaring me.” I gestured to Hiei, who glare at me as well, both proving my point and making me sweat drop while laughing nervously. Oops.


Kuwabara, who didn't feel very confident with what I had to say, turned to Yusuke and shook him violently out of fear. “Hey, Urameshi!” But there was no response like always. “ You got to wake up, come on!” He shouted desperately, making me sigh. Yusuke is so going to have brain damage thanks to him.


Before any of us could tell Kuwabara to calm down and let Yusuke go, Zeru's Spirit Energy spiked again. All six pairs of eyes flashed to his form instantly, only to see Zeru erupting in more flames. Sending a stream of fire at us, and letting it circle dangerously close towards us as well. Backing up slightly to get away from the flames, I glared over at Zeru with annoyance, Hiei and Kurama doing the same. This is so going to get old very, very quickly. However, before I could think of something witty to say, the fire was directed else were. And I watched as the fire burned through ten or fifteen rows that were in the youkai filled stands. The cries of those youkai filling the air before the only thing that could be heard was the crackling of the dieing fire. The sent of burnt flesh beginning to fill the air, and make my nose scrunch up slightly in disgust.


*One word: Issues.* I thought annoyed.


Getting over his shock and fear, Kuwabara faced the limb Yusuke in his arms, shouting. “Come on, Urameshi! We got problems here!” But no matter what he said or did, Yusuke continued to sleep. “Oh shoot, it's no use.” He mumbled with a defeated sigh.


“Uh..” Koto's loud voice echoed across the quiet stadium. “Well people the flames are out, I notice everybody is pretty quiet after that little outburst. But remember that's half the fun, now send out your fighters, Teams.” She said, the fear slowly leaving her voice as she crawled back onto the ring. Having jumped off and hid behind the ring to get cover from the flames.


With a 'hmph' from the Rokuyukai Team, we looked to see who was going. “I'll go first.” Rinku said, his arms behind head as he walked forward, a cocky smirk on his lips as he stared at us.


“Yeah, that little brat is definitely mine.” Kuwabara said with a glare.


“You can take him out Kuwabara,” Yusuke cheered in his sleep, before mumbling. “I have to go hike...”


I sighed with a sweat drop, but followed Kurama -who carried Yusuke-, Hiei, and the Masked Fighter off the ring. Once we were on the grass, we watched the before-fight-trash-talk “Dammit, should have known that I'd be stuck with the weak one. After all that embarrassment last night, I was hoping you'd run off. “ Rinku said annoyed, making my eye twitch slightly.


Kuwabara remained silent, just glaring down at the little seven year old, but glanced at Koto as she spoke. “No limits have been set, besides one on one. You're free to use any weapons or techniques you want. First person to stay down or out of the ring for ten seconds is the loser.” She waited for a second for any questions, and when on one asked, a buzzer went off and echoed around the area. “Now begin!” She said, backing up from the boys, just to be on the safe side.


Kuwabara let a smirk fall on his lips as he slid into a fighting stance. Rinku, on the other hand, just side-stepped to the left, his expression bored. “I'll let you have the first shot, Short Stuff.” Kuwabara said cockily, making a 'come here' motion. “Come on, hit me if you can.” He challenged.


I bit my lip slightly, I got a bad feeling about this match. I don't think Kuwabara will die, get hurt yes, but I think he'll lose... Snapping out of my negative thoughts, I fixed my hard gaze on both fighters, trying to keep my mind off of that little nagging voice in the back of my head. However, I couldn't help but worry when it came to Kuwabara's cockiness, even if he is up against a kid. But this kid proves to be more than that from last night, and Kuwabara's stupid code about not fighting women and children will probably hurt his chances of winning too. Dammit, I just made myself think negative thoughts again! Stupid me!


Kuwabara and Rinku stared at each other, following each other's movements. Which went like this: Kuwabara goes right, and Rinku side-steps left. It was just going in a circle, around and around. But that stopped when a smirk flashed across Rinku's lips as he asked. “”Why don't we play a little first?”


Shooting the younger boy a confused look, Kuwabara opened his mouth to ask what he meant, but he didn't get a chance to. Rinku's smirk grew as he stood on his toes, and once his feet left the ground, he disappeared with a laugh. Kuwabara gasped, his head wiping his head around as he looked for the seven year old. My, Kurama, and Hiei's eyes widened -Hiei only slightly- as we scanned the area to find the boy, and when we did, there were at least five of him. Or that's what it would look like for Kuwabara anyway. There were five Rinku's bouncing all over the ring, their echoes merging together to confuse Kuwabara as they played. Some front flipped across the stage, others hands stands, anything that Rinku could do to try and trip up the red head. By the looks of Kuwabara's pupils -which were flying in every direction-, he wasn't doing so good, what's worse is that Rinku knows it.


“What is this?!” Kuwabara shouted annoyed, finally following the real Rinku. “Recess?!


However, he lost Rinku once he disappeared again, and reappeared above Kuwabara's head. “Do you think you can catch me?!” Rinku shouted smiling, swinging his foot towards Kuwabara's temple.


Kuwabara's eyes widened a fraction as he narrowly missed Rinku's shoe connecting with his head. Quickly turning around to where Rinku landed, he felt a sticky substance trickle down from his right temple, and a little bit of pain coming as well. Narrowing his eyes he refocused his eyes in front of himself, Rinku gone once again. A frustrated growl escaped his lips, his fist clenching and unclenching in annoyance.


“Darn it, where'd he go?' He mumbled to himself, his eyes glancing around.


I looked around as well, but a sudden movement made my eyes snap towards Kuwabara again. My eyes widened as I saw Rinku crouching just in front of Kuwabara, getting ready to spring upwards. “Kuwabara! Look down!” I shouted quickly.


Hearing that from me, Kuwabara wasted no time looking down. However, when he did he only saw Rinku's smirking face before he kicked off the ground towards him, sending a kick straight to his jaw. Stumbling back, Kuwabara held the tender flesh and watched Rinku flip back into the air, and landing a few feet away, on his toes once again. I resisted the urge to face palm myself a the kids actions, but did as I remembered how Kuwabara wasn’t doing se well against him. Especially now that he actually got hit with a solid blow to the jaw, and by the looks of how Kuwabara's rubbing it said that it hurt. Rinku's not only fast, but he's got the power to make him deadly.


“You know kid,” Kuwabara wiped the blood that dripped down his cheek, and glared. “You're starting to make me mad!” He shouted annoyed, his teeth clenching tightly. Rinku only smirked a the statement before disappearing again, only to appear as five more Rinku's like before. They began to bounce across and around the ring, causing Kuwabara to shout out. “Stop moving!” As he tried to find the real Rinku.


“Such great agility, his moves will be difficult to follow.” Kurama stated from my right, his eyes narrowed.


I bit my lip at the sound of that. “Come on, Kuwabara.” I mumbled to myself.


As Rinku continued to flip around the stage with his 'clones', he began to laugh. “Bet you wanna quit now, don't you?” He asked, his laugh seeping into his words.


Kuwabara's eyes darted around before they suddenly stopped on something. A smirk lit his face as he turned to his left, sending a punch as he shouted. “I might be worried, if it weren't for one thing!” Once his fist connected with the real Rinku's head, he finished. “You're leaving a trail!”


From the force of Kuwabara's punch, Rinku's hat flew off as he smacked against the ground. However he didn't just stay down, from going so fast and getting hit with a hard punch like that from Kuwabara, he rolled and bounced against the ground hard. Even the sounds of him hitting the ground made me flinch and move away, just imagining how bad that must have felt hurt. But I straightened up when Rinku stayed down, groans of pain falling from his lips. Blinking in surprise for a second, I let a full blown smile form on my lips. Finally Kuwabara got a punch on him, maybe this will turn around just like his match against Byakko!


“Nice one, Lame-o.” Yusuke mumbled from my left, making me sweat drop. God what does he dream about?!


But my eyes focused back onto Rinku's form as he struggled to get up. His body was shaking from the pain, and the smirk wasn't on his face anymore. A few scratches littered his face, his now released hair doing the same. Rinku glared at Kuwabara hatefully, clenching his fists as he pushed himself upright. A growl could practically be heard form the younger boys throat, making me smirk at him. Now whose smirking?


“You're beaten, I can sense your Spirit now.” Kuwabara stated, smirking at him as well.


Keeping his sights on Kuwabara, Rinku broke off into a run again, his scowl still sitting on his lips. But, before he could get any farther than he already was, Kuwabara appeared in front of him, sending a swift kick to Rinku's face. Sending the boy bouncing across the ring once again, but this time failing to get up like he did before, Kuwabara standing over him with a smirk. A small part of me felt bad for the boy, seeing as how he was so young and was participating in this kind of Tournament. However, I pushed those feelings aside, even if it goes against some things that I believe in, I cheered Kuwabara on to finish the boy off.


“Go Kuwabara!” I shouted, cupping my mouth with my hands.


Kurama smiled slightly, turning to Hiei as he said. “Our lessons helped him more than we thought, Hiei. It seems Kuwabara is the type of fighter whose true skills can only be measured in the ring.”


Hiei glanced at the red haired kitsune before looking back at the fighters. “Maybe so, but he still doesn't understand these fights. He should drop his honor and strike the boy while he's down.” He said, eyes narrowing slightly as he could see Kuwabara was holding back against Rinku.


Finally pushing himself up, small ragged breaths falling from his lips. But by the look in his eyes, he wasn't going to let Kuwabara get away with that attack. His scowl and glare still remained, deciding to leave the childish antics alone for this battle, seeing as how he underestimated the ningen before him. Clenching his fist, Rinku broke off into a run again, but this time towards Kuwabara head on. It seemed like he wasn't trying to be tactical at all, just wanting to land another hit on Kuwabara out of anger. Obviously seeing that, Kuwabara let a smirk fall on his lips for a second before he mimicked Rinku's actions, but stayed glued to the spot he stood on. Once Rinku lept into the air to land the punch, Kuwabara swung his fist into the child's stomach, propelling him backwards, holding his stomach in pain.


“This could be Kuwabara's best chance to finish him.” Kurama stated, eyes narrowed.


I couldn't contain my smile, nodding. “You got this Kuwabara! Finish the little brat off!” I shouted again, cupping my mouth once again. It's nice to start off the Tournament with a win in the first match.


Kuwabara didn't pass my shoutings any mind, and sprinted after Rinku's flying form. His right fist clenched into a fist again, brought back as he prepared to let it fly. “I don't wanna torture you, just stay down until the Ref counts to ten!” He shouted, bringing the punch down.


Rinku's pain stricken face suddenly melted into a smirk, and he disappeared before the fist got to him. Causing Kuwabara's eyes to widen in surprise, but not only because of Rinku disappearing once again, but because he was now behind him. “You shouldn't take so long on those attacks of yours!” He said, sending a kick so hard to Kuwabara's head, his neck began to bend to the point where his neck would break.


I gasped, my eyes widening as Kuwabara's body fell to the ground, his eyes glazed over and dull. “Kuwabara!” I shouted, my hand beginning to shake as it rose to my lips, my other hand on my heart.


Kurama and even Hiei weren't any different in the expression department, both staring at Kuwabara's motionless body that sprawled out onto the ring floor. The Masked Fighter, however, didn't show any form of emotion in his eyes at all, staring a the ring in complete calmness. But I didn't care for him right now, all I could really focus on was Kuwabara's body. From the strength in Rinku's kick, his neck probably was broken, and by how he was right now only proved that fact. Even if he had strong Spiritual Energy for a ningen, he still was fragile when it came to youkai. Tears began to prick my eyes, I knew this Tournament was horrible, now I was going to lose one of my only friends.


Koto stepped back, her nose scrunching up in disgust at the body in front of her. “Ew.” She mumbled, making my eyes snap into a glare on her form. My piercing glare following her as she walked towards Kuwabara's form, pointing her finger. “1...2...3...4...5!” She counted as cheers filled the air from the stands.


“How was that Zeru?” Rinku asked laughing, as he faced his Leader. “I thought it would be more fun if I let him think he was winning for a while, the fans liked it too.” He smiled, his hands behind his head.


“Should have known, Kuwabara only seemed better because the boy was leaving a trail.” Hiei said tonelessly.


“You're such an ass!” I shouted, shooting a glare at him. “Kuwabara probably broke his neck, how can you just say something like that?! Don't you care at all?!!” I asked, my fist clenching slightly. I knew Hiei could be an ass, but how can he act like Kuwabara isn't dead and that his neck isn't broken?! How I could even have the tiniest bit of feelings for him at all was a mystery to me at times like this.


“Do you really want me to answer that?” He asked, glancing at me, while I only looked away angrily.


“...6...7.” Koto continued.


“What's the point in counting? I broke the dummies neck.” Rinku said to Koto with a smirk. “Say, why don't you count his last heart beats?” He suggested, laughing darkly.


Slamming my hands down on the ring, I glared at Rinku heatedly. “Why don't you go fucking play near pedophiles you annoying brat?!” I snapped, getting ready to jump into the fight and beat the kids fucking head in. Rinku just ignored me, and began to blow kisses at the crowd as they cheered him on. Damn brat.


“8...!-.” Koto began to count again, but stopped the number that was on the tip of her tongue.


I stopped my glare when something moved out of my peripheral vision, making my head snap to my left. My mouth dropped slightly in shock, but that soon melted into a bright smile. Kuwabara shakily got to his knees with a grunt of pain, a glare in his eyes as he turned his head at the happy kid in front of him. Upon hearing Kuwabara's groan, Rinku stopped his gloating almost instantly. Rinku made a tiny noise that could probably be out of surprise and a little bit of fear, however that is how I heard it, it could have meant anything. But I think it was right because I hate him and I want him to feel fear. I know, I'm mean.


“Actually,” Kuwabara spoke, his narrowed gaze on Rinku's back. “My neck is just fine.”


Rinku's eyes widened at that, but masked the look almost instantly. A evil smirk formed on his lips as he turned around, shaking his head with a 'tsk' sound. “Say, we'll just have to fix that, won't we?” He asked slightly through clenched teeth.


Kuwabara slowly got to his feet, stumbling as he did, but managed to keep his ground. Seeing the fight not over, Koto smiled as she said. “I love it! Just when we thought it was done, the two are facing off again!”


“No more kiddy games,” Kuwabara glared. “You better start fighting me honest.” He warned.


“They both greatly underestimate each other, I believe the first to realize this will win.” Kurama said, a frown on his lips as he watched the two glare at each other.


Hiei smirked. “Well at any rate, it's an interesting match.”


I sweat dropped, turning to him. “Aren't you worried that he might lose?” I asked, although having a pretty good idea was his answer is going to be. It's not like it's hard.


“No.” He said simply, making me sigh.


“The Tournament's first fight is locked in a stare down,” Koto announced, glancing at the two. “Who will throw the next punch?”


Kuwabara's gaze narrowed, breaking the silence as he said. “Honestly, I didn't think you'd come back so quick.” However, a smirk crossed his lips, that same cocky smirk he had before this fight started. “I let my guard down while you were at your best, and you still couldn't beat me. Why don't you run home, and let someone else fight?” He asked, while I face palmed myself. This so isn't going to end well.


“I got a better idea.” Rinku said, swinging the little green pack that was at his side to his left hand. “Since I couldn't beat you playing, I'll use my real weapon.” He opened the tied up opening, and put something in his hand.


Looking on in confusion, I saw him hold between his thumb and pointer finger, a small yellow circle that had a blue center with a red star in the middle. “What the hell is that?” I asked confused.


“They're yo-yo's, in Ningenkai they're toys that children play with.” Kurama explained.


“Oh. Well that's...weird.” I mumbled with a sweat drop.


Rinku smirked, holding out both of his hands, revealing nine more identical yo-yo's, one between each finger. “Wanna try?” He asked with a smirk, an evil glint flashing through his green eyes. I bit my lip, for some reason I have a bad feeling about those little Ningenkai toys. Especially when purple Spirit Energy formed around himself and the yo-yo's, red electric energy crackling around his body as well. “The Serpent Yo-Yo Attack!” He said, the stars in the middle of the yo-yo's growing white.


“The Serpent Yo-Yo?” I heard Kurama mumble to himself.


Hiei tensed ever so slightly as he said. “His Spirit Power is increasing.” His eyes narrowing into slits as he stared at the boy.


Kuwabara smirked as he felt Rinku's Spirit Energy rise, not knowing that this could cause a problem for him. “Ha! I can feel you letting out all your stuff now, so I will too. Here's a new trick I got!” He shouted, holding out both of his hands as two very familiar looking orange orbs formed in his palm. But instead of only one Spirit Sword coming out, two were there, once clutched tightly in each hand. My eyes widened slightly, when the hell did he learn to make another Spirit Sword?


“Double Spirit Sword!” Kuwabara announced, putting his two swords in the shape of a side-ways cross. “I think it's time we finish this thing.” He glared, turning serious once again.


Wasting no time, Rinku sprang into the air, throwing five of his yo-yo's down at Kuwabara. “Short Toss!”


I narrowed my eyes as I watched the yo-yo's fly, I felt Spirit Energy in the strings. Why? However, I snapped out of my train of thought as I heard Kuwabara shout. “Do you think you can beat me with those stupid kiddy toys?!” He brought his ride sword down towards the strings, with an annoyed glare. But before his sword could get close enough to cut them, they all wiggled like snakes out of the way. Letting all five of them hit him, all in the areas of his head and chest.


“Yes of course!” Kurama gasped. “The strings, they're alive!”


Watching Kuwabara crash to the floor in pain, Koto looked shocked. “Please tell me I'm not the only one who saw that people! Somehow the yo-yo's snaked themselves around to avoid Kuwabara's sword!”


“Yeah of course they did.” Rinku said, rolling four of his yo-yo's up and down, and repeating the cycle. “You don't think I just throw ordinary toy around, do you?” He asked, smirking.


“Could've fooled me.” I said loudly.


Throwing an annoyed look over at me, Rinku said. “Well that's because you're an idiot.”


“That's it!” I shouted, beginning to crawl onto the stage with an irk mark. But before I could even begin to try, both Hiei and Kurama grabbed me with sweat drops as I seethed out. “Let me go! This kid needs to fucking die!”


{Onna, I swear if you don't shut up, I'll kill you.} Hiei snapped in my mind.


I stopped my thrashing, and once they let me go, I crossed my arms. *Sure Hiei do that, and when we get disqualified for not having enough players, we'll know who to thank for that. Smart one.* I thought throwing a smirk in his direction, while he only glared, an irk mark beginning to form.


“Darn it.” Kuwabara cursed slightly, sitting up. Remaking his Spirit Sword in his right hand, clutching it tightly as his anger grew.


“When I throw the yo-yo's, my Spirit Power goes into them. Kind like they're apart of me, and they bite too. You try to cut them down with that Sword is like grabbing snakes bare handed.” Rinku explained, throwing his yo-yo's up in the air, letting them twitch and snake around as they spun wildly. But when Kuwabara got to his feet again, and holding both his Spirit Swords, Rinku jumped in the air. “I know a fun new game, I throw my yo-yo's and you try to stay alive!” He threw his five yo-yo's at the ground, but stayed in the air. “This is my take on Walking the Dog!” He said laughing.


Kuwabara growled in annoyance, but quickly looked at the ground. Throwing his Spirit Sword down at the ground, he tug under the tile that was in front of him and lifted it up, letting the yo-yo's hit that. However, Rinku was right about them having a 'bite', and they ripped through the rock like it was no problem. Narrowing his eyes again, Kuwabara kept digging up the tiles, only to have more and more of them turn to dust thanks to the demon yo-yo's. A look of annoyance passed over Rinku's face as he saw this, and he smirked as he sent more Spirit Energy into the strings. Sending the newly powered yo-yo's through the four other lifted tiles, they connected with Kuwabara's face and chest once again. Letting out a pain filled cry, Kuwabara backed up, clenching his teeth to silence himself.


I bit my lip out of worry, but I gasped when I saw Rinku move the strings. Four of each yo-yo in Rinku's hands snaked around Kuwabara's legs and hands, while the last remaining two slammed into his back, making him cry out again. Rinku only laughed, pulling his strings down to the ground, making Kuwabara follow and slam down against his will. However, Rinku wasn't done with him yet. Kuwabara gasped when he felt himself leave the floor of the ring. And despite his protests, Rinku threw the red haired ningen high into the air, until he was just a tiny spec against the blue sky.


“Well people, I'll let you use your own imagination for what happens when that ningen's poor, frail body falls from the top of this stadium and crashes all the way down onto the cold, hard, stone arena! Isn't this Tournament to die for?!” Koto asked, turning to the stands, as they cheered. Of course.


Not liking the visual I got from Koto's 'nice' little speech, I kept my worried gaze on Kuwabara's form. But my stare only widened into horror when I saw Rinku suddenly throw his strings towards the floor, hard, leaving Kuwabara to fall screaming to the arena floor at a fast pace.


“Kuwabara!” I gasped, and once he came close to hitting the stone, I covered my eyes with my arm.


Silence filled the air, and I waited to hear Kuwabara's body smack against the floor with a sickening crack. But noticing that I didn't hear anything like that come to my ears, I slowly looked up. A gasp left my lips as I let down my arm, seeing Kuwabara stopped just mere inches from what could have been the cause of his death. Kuwabara's eyes were side as he stared down at the floor with the same horrified look that I had on my face. However, before Kuwabara or I could have breathe out a sigh of relief, Rinku let out a small laugh. Seconds later Kuwabara was flung into the air once again, but not as high as before, and was slammed down against the floor. His face implanting itself into the stone quiet painfully, making me wince.


“Try this one! This is my take on Around the World!” Rinku shouted, slamming Kuwabara down once again. But this time Kuwabara flew over his shoulder, and landed on his back, letting us see the blood fly from his lips as his back hit the ground.


“What a glorious fight! The opponent is helpless, it's hard to counter attack when you can't even move!” Koto shouted with a smile, the crowd agreeing with her.


Hiei glared slightly as he watched Kuwabara continue to slam across the hard surface of the ring before turning to Kurama. “You see, I told you Kuwabara's training wouldn’t be enough. We best assume him dead and plan for the next fight.” The look on his face said that he was serious about this too.


I stared at Hiei in shock, even if this completely in character for him, I couldn't help but feel...shocked! “You can't be serious! He's our friend you asshole!” I shouted, glaring at him.


Hiei glanced at me. “He may be your friend, but that doesn't matter in a tournament like this. By the looks of this fight, it is going to happen even if you don't want it to.” He said, completely toneless, making me glare harder at him. He is such a fucking jerk!


“No, there are still some Techniques he hasn't tried.” Kurama said, staring at Kuwabara intently.


“I'll take your word for it.” I said, giving Hiei once last glare.


Kuwabara got to his knees, finally able to move now that Rinku let him touch back down. Glaring at Rinku, Kuwabara said angrily through clenched teeth, his hand balled into a fist. “I'm gonna get you, you'll be screaming mommy!” His breath coming out hard, letting us know how much pain he was in right now.


Rinku sighed, staring at Kuwabara with a genuine confused look. “It's like fighting a brick, how many times do I have to throw you around?” But that look soon wiped off his face as the familiar smirk formed again. “Hey, I know exactly what to do, and I won't even have to work.” He said, putting his Spirit Energy back into the strings, making Kuwabara and I stare at them both with suspicious and scared looks. Shit.


“W-Wait!” Kuwabara struggled as he began to rise in the air. “What are you doing?! You little brat!” Kuwabara snapped angrily as he hung just as high as he did the first time around.


“Just enjoy yourself, you'll be coming down soon enough!” Rinku smirked.


I groaned slightly, and I felt two eyes on me, while one paid me no mind. “This isn't good, even if I don't wan to admit it, Kuwabara's going to lose this one.” I sighed, a frown on my lips.


“I told you.” Hiei said, but he didn't smirk for once.


Kurama shook his head. “Don't lose your faith in him so easily, Kira. I know Kuwabara will come back from this.” He said, his eyes never leaving Kuwabara's form.


“I hope you're right.” I mumbled looking back up at the ningen.


“Yusuke!” We all heard a familiar girl shout from a distance, making me turn around. There, in the stands was Keiko, with Shizuru and Botan sitting next to her. Keiko was glaring down at our Team Leader angrily as she cupped her mouth with her hands. “Yusuke, how can you keep sleeping like that when you're friend is in trouble with these nasty demons?! Help him Yusuke! Ge off your lazy butt and help him!” She shouted again, the anger clear in her voice. Man, I would hate to be yelled at her like this.


However, despite my fear for Keiko right now, I couldn’t help but smirk down at Yusuke. “You are so whipped.” I snickered, making both boys next to me sweat drop.


Deciding to stop myself from getting distracted, I looked back up at Kuwabara, my frown returning. How was he going to get out of this one? “You know,” Kuwabara shouted. “It's really hard to take this serious when a little kid with yo-yo's is the one whose gonna finish me!” Kuwabara shouted down, a frustrated expression falling on his face. How I can see that is beyond me, so don't even ask...


“What's the matter with you, Yusuke?!” Keiko shouted again, but this time closer, making me turn around once again. “Your friends need you now, think about that!” She shouted, with Botan and Shizuru near the railing that separated us from the crowd. I sighed when I looked back down at Yusuke, not even her yelling at him could wake him up.


Botan shot Yusuke a worried look before her gaze turned upwards towards Kuwabara. “Hang tight, Kuwabara! I don't suppose you can fly, can you?” She shouted up to the ningen, concern obviously in her voice.


Pushing the smirk that fell on my lips away, I couldn't help but wonder something. Why the hell was she even here? And why are Keiko and Shizuru with her to? *I wonder if Koenma knows about this...*


Upon hearing his voice, Kuwabara looked down to see the three woman standing there. “Oh! Hey, Botan! Oh! Sis! I didn't know you were gonna be here, I'd give you a better greeting, but I'm kinda busy right now!” Kuwabara shouted down with a nervous laugh.


I stared up at Kuwabara, my eyes narrowing in worry. Doesn't he know this is an impossible fight now and Rinku won't let him down again? Before, that was just a lucky break, but now, I'm not so sure that's going to happen again. But my worry was also for Shizuru, despite her stoic and...uncaring expression I bet she was scared as hell for her little brother. Turning my gaze away from the suspended ningen, I narrowed my sights on Rinku's smirking form. My eyes set themselves in a deathly glare as I saw him smirk even wider at the encouraging words. Every fiber of my being hated this kid, and I couldn't wait til someone beats the shit out of him. But, as things stood now, I don't think that will be happening. Dammit...


“Rinku seems to be hesitating, why don't we ask the fans what they want?” Koto said, gesturing towards the stands as they cheered.


Almost immediately the suggestions came flying out of the youkai's mouths, as if it were natural, which it probably was. From out of all the jumbled gibberish that could be heard around the stadium, only three were clear and understandable. Those were: “Finish him kid!” “Make him splatter!” and “Let him drop! We'll watch him fall!” As anyone could guess, hearing those did not help my pissed and worried mood at all.


“Say, I guess that settles it.” Rinku said, an evil look flashing through his eyes. “I gotta give my fans what they want, and they want a drop.” Once those words left his lips, the strings that were around Kuwabara fell away.


Feeling nothing keeping him suspended in the air anymore, Kuwabara's eyes widened as he let out a yell, feeling the wind rushing past him quickly. His cries were the only thing that could be heard, not even the youkai were shouting or cheering. They were waiting in anticipation, wanting to hear the crack of the poor ningens body once it hits the stone ring bellow. However, that wasn't said for Hiei, Kurama and I. We were staring wide eyed, even Hiei a little bit, as we watched our teammate and friend fall towards his death.


“This is it, people!” Koto shouted, breaking the silence. “Get ready for a boom!” She warned happily.


“Please don't go boom.” I whispered to myself quietly.


But the look lifted off my face, only to be replaced with confusion when I saw Kuwabara begin to move him arms. His hands were out in front of himself, both palms just inches apart from each other. I began to wonder what the hell that would do, his arms wouldn't help him absorb the impact at all, but I stopped. When I saw the familiar orange glow form inside his hands, my eyes brightened up and I smiled, while the two boys next to me looked ever so slightly shocked at the smart, yet stupid, plan the ningen had in mind. Forget what I said about Rinku not getting the shit beaten out of him, Kuwabara is going to do that, but ten times worse! Hell yeah!


“You just made your big mistake, Rinku!” Kuwabara shouted, his eyes narrowed in concentration. “You should have never let me use my hands! Spirit Sword get long!”


Just as he had commanded it, the orange sword shot out of the little orb that laid in Kuwabara's hand. The beam of Spirit Energy flew down towards the stadium, before it broke through the stone tiles that littered the ring effortlessly. Bits of stone flew with a loud crack, but no one paid that any mind. All we were concentrating on was the ningen that slowed down considerably before he stopped. Just dangling mere inches above the ground, Kuwabara held the hilt of his sword tightly, bobbing slightly as he readied himself. A second later, he lunged at the shocked boy in front of him, his Spirit Sword disappearing.


The shocked look, however, left Rinku's face and he just smirked, as if amused. “So, the sword absorbs your fall like a backwards bungee cord, huh? That's a neat-o idea coming from a block head.” Holding out his hands, the yo-yo's already in position to fly towards Kuwabara, Rinku jumped in the air as he shouted. “There's on little problem though, you flying straight at me just makes it easier for all my yo-yos to hit you at once, and you can't handle that!” With those words, the yo-yos flew at Kuwabara's form.


“My only chance for a hit.” Kuwabara mumbled, watching as the yo-yo's slither through the air.


Making another Spirit Sword appear in his hand, Kuwabara narrowed his sights back onto Rinku. Shooting out more Spirit Energy, Kuwabara's sword grew longer and flew towards the strings that were attached to the yo-yos. I, as well as every one else besides the Masked Fighter of course, stared at Kuwabara in confusion, wondering what he was going to do with that kind of attack. From what we've seen before, Rinku's strings could just move and maneuver around Kuwabara's sword easily. Doing something like that again just seemed pointless. Shooting my eyes over to Rinku, seeing that same smirk still on his lips, he was thinking the same thing.


“Not that dummy sword again, I can dodge that easil-” Rinku began to say, but he was cut off.


All eyes widened, especially Rinku's, when we saw the orange sword of energy wiggle around the strings, just like what Rinku's yo-yo's could do. Rinku's eyes filled with fear when the sword almost instantly appeared in front of his chest, just seconds away from piercing him. While his yo-yos were just in front of Kuwabara, making me wonder whose attack would hit first.


“Get the hell out of the way, Rinku!” Zeru shouted, but Rinku just stared at the sword in shock and fear.


Narrowing his eyes, Kuwabara watched both his sword and Rinku's yo-yos, wondering one thing. Which weapon would hit first?! But the thought went unanswered when pain shot threw his chest and head, and Rinku's chest, as both weapons hit as if in unison. Blood flew from Rinku's wound as he gave out a cry of pain, while Kuwabara only grunted as the yo-yo's fell away from his face and torso. However, by the small amount of blood that occupied his face, Kuwabara was obviously hit worse than he was letting on.


“You really hit...” Rinku trailed off dazed, his eyes glazing over slightly.


Throwing a glare in Rinku's direction, Kuwabara managed to force out. “That's right, I hit you.”


Once those words were exchanged, both fighters flew out of the ring and landed on the ground in unison. A stunned silence went across the whole stadium, none expecting what had just happened. I stared at Kuwabara, who had landed near our time, in shock. Kuwabara actually came back from this fight, he was able to hit Rinku. Now, if he gets up in time, we could win this thing! Quickly looking over to the other side of the ring, Rinku laid perfectly still, the same as Kuwabara. Judging from the damage he got from Kuwabara's sword, Rinku shouldn't be able to get up. Or at least I hope anyway.


“So, whose the winner.” Shizuru asked boredly, breaking the silence.


Botan stared down at the two fighters, her expression slightly shocked, but what she said was in complete calmness. “Beats me.”


I turned to them with my right eye twitching. “Not the time, guys!” I shouted, an irk mark beginning to form. Don't they know that we could lose right now?! I know I'm not usually serious, but this could get us killed!


“Um, right!” Koto's voice suddenly spoke up, making me look away from a nervous laughing Botan and a uncaring Shizuru. “Well, both the fighters have been extraordinarily knocked outside of the ring, at the very same time.” She said, also recovering from shock.


“Was that the focus of your training?” Hiei glanced at Kurama.


“Well, more or less, but the main focus of our training was to teach him precise control of his Spirit Sword.” Kurama answered, looking down at him.


Looking down at a very motionless Kuwabara, I said. “Well it worked, but he still needs to get in the ring.”


Noticing the same thing, Koto quickly composed herself and looked at the two figures laying in the grass. “You know, you're only suppose to stay outside the ring for ten seconds, so... Um I should start counting.” Raising on finger, she began to count. “1!”



Hiei turned back, looking at the ring with a calm expression. “I'd be surprised if either of them got back on their feet in time.” He said, stuffing his hands in his pockets, as if we weren't probably going to lose this match. This whole thing is a game to him, isn't it?


“It's true both yo-yo and the sword made solid hits, I guess we'll see soon enough.” Kurama said, looking down at the motionless ningen.


I looked at him as well. “He better get up, or I swear I'm going to give him hell for this.” I said seriously.


“2...3...” Koto continued.


“Get up! You're late! Kuwabara!” Yusuke suddenly shouted, making all four of us look down at him. He was still asleep, but apparently he was aware of what was happening. That's pretty awesome actually.


“4...and 5...-!” Koto stopped, and gasped.


All of us heard that, and quickly looked and followed her gaze. There, getting into the ring, was Rinku. My mouth dropped open slightly in disbelief. He got pierced through the chest by a fucking sword! How the hell was he able to move, let alone be conscious?! My eyes narrowed into a glare though when he stood up, clutching the wound that was on his chest. Blood dripping slightly from beneath his hand.


“Dammit, I didn't think he could throw such a blow. I'll have to use a lot of my Energy just to cover.” Rinku said in-between pants of pain. Holding out his hands in front of his wound, a blue energy forming around it.


“Rinku has entered the ring after five counts, but it's not over yet.” Koto said smiling.


Looking up from his wound, Rinku forced out tiredly. “It's ok, he's down for good, I'll have my time to heal.” He said, more pants falling from his lips, his body heaving up and down. It looks like Kuwabara really did a number on him. Good.


“Get up there Kuwabara, I'm serious, I know you're use to losing, but not now!” Yusuke shouted again.


Getting an idea from that, I turned to Kuwabara with a smirk. “Wow Kuwabara, getting dissed by Yusuke while he's in his sleep, now that's just pathetic.” I said, knowing he would be able to hear it.


His ear twitching slightly, ignoring Koto as she counted again. “6!”


Jumping to his feet almost instantly, his face contorted into an angered look. “What did you say?!” He shouted at the unconscious ningen next to a smirking me.


“6, Kuwabara, you have four counts to get in the ring.” Koto said, thinking Kuwabara was talking to her.


Not looking at her, he continued to glare as he shouted. “Not you! Urameshi!” Running pass Hiei, Kurama, the Masked Fighter and I, he grabbed Yusuke by his collar, shouting. “You wanna say that to my face?! Come on!” But Yusuke didn't wake up or react at all, just slept. “Oh! You pretend to sleep now, you scardy cat!” He growled out, while I snickered in the background.


“7...and an 8!” Koto continued.


Kuwabara's eyes widened at that, and turned to her with wide eyes. “Hey! Hold your horses, I'm coming!” He shouted.


“Oh man, I can't take anymore of him right now.” Rinku said, his eyes widening as well with fear.


Holding out his right hand, it glowed with blue Spirit Energy, Rinku rose his yo-yo's up from the ground. I stopped my laughing when I felt his Spirit Energy move around, and I looked over at Kuwabara quickly. There around him were Rinku's yo-yo's, and they wrapped around the wide eyed ningen tightly, making him fall to his knees. My eyes widened, as well as the other boys, when Kuwabara tried to get to his feet, but failed.


“Huh?!” Kuwabara shouted frustrated.


Glaring at Rinku, I pointed at him accusingly. “That's cheating! You can't do that, he's not even in the ring!” I shouted angrily, mostly because Koto wasn't doing anything to stop it.


“9 counts!” Koto ignored my statement, and continued to count.


“Let go of me you stupid yo-yo strings!” Kuwabara shouted again, before glaring at Rinku. “That's cheating!” He agreed with me.


*Shit, Kuwabara get up now!* I growled as I silently urged Kuwabara to find a way to get up and onto the ring. However, all hope of that ended when the most dreaded number was said, it echoing around the stadium..


“10!”


Once Koto shouted that, all Kuwabara could was fall back in defeat, the yo-yo's finally falling from his form. “And Rinku is the winner, the Rokuyukai Team gets a point!” She gestured to the monitor that hung above the stadium. It held two pictures, one of Kuwabara and one of Rinku. A big X went over Kuwabara's and a big O over Rinku's. Signaling he had won, I clenched my fists tightly. Dammit!


Getting up, Kuwabara glared as he climbed into the ring. “No, no, no, no! Hold it jerks! That wasn't a fair move! Let's go!” He shouted angrily, getting into a fighting stance as he glared at Rinku.


Rinku's eyes widened at that, his eyes filling with fear once again. Stepping back, he said with a shaky voice. “What? You run on batteries or something? I beat you, just please go away!”


“That was very innocent,” Kurama smirked. “It's rare to see both fighters still standing.” Kurama said calmly.


I let out a defeated sigh, losing all of my anger for the moment. Although I was still mad that they allowed a cheating move like that in this match, but it is the Dark Tournament I'm talking about though. “I guess, I just wish we didn't lose.” I mumbled, unclenching my fists.


“Hn,” Hiei crossed his arms. “I assure you it wont' happen with me.” He said.


“Good, and make it hurt.” I said with a smirk, making Hiei do the same. Oh, we are so evil.


“This isn’t' over kid!” Kuwabara shouted, making all of us look back over at him. He was pointing at Rinku who was running off the ring, towards his team. “Meet me behind the Hotel when the Tournaments done!” He shouted again, pissed.


“Go away!” Rinku shouted again, but as he passed Zeru, he mumbled. “Excuse me.” Before he sat himself far away from his team an continued to heal himself desperately.



Despite myself, and I really mean that, I couldn't help but feel sorry for Rinku. Even if he is a asshole who deserves to get his face punched in, he's still a kid. And kids like him shouldn't be in a Tournament like this, he could easily get killed. He's just lucky that Kuwabara has an honor code, or he probably would be dead right now if Kuwabara aimed just a bit to the left. But shaking those thoughts away, I couldn't help but feel nervous about the next match. Just the thought of it made my stomach churn painfully. That was because I would be fighting next, since I want to get it over with, even though that isn't a good reason. But that didn't matter, the only thing that did was one thing. Staring a the Rokuyukai's remaining five players, one question came to mind.


Who will I fight?


Ending it here, I hope you guys liked it!
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