A/N: Hey, everyone! I know I'm trying to get next couple of chapters out quickly because the Finals are going to be HUGE! I MEAN, BIG! I can't wait to get there because it is going to be quite the affair.

Oh, and sorry, I meant to give the definition for Mukuro's attack in the last chapter. "Oukan" is Japanese for "crown." I just thought it was a good name and she needed a new attack since we weren't given a full in-depth showing of her powers in the series. Sad, really, because she was one of my favorite characters added during the "The Three Kings Saga." Basically, I think Mukuro is pretty awesome.

Anyway, on to Chapter 10!

Chapter 10: Path to the Finals

Yusuke, Kurama, and Mukuro were in the stadium tunnel after their successful battle in the Semi-Finals. They were sore and banged up but that was the price of victory. And, considering the win they just had, it was well worth a few aches and pains.

"Whew!" Yusuke exhaled. He worked out some of the soreness in his shoulder, "What a relief!"

"It was quite the affair," Kurama added. "I'll admit to being worried for a second there."

"Who could blame you? Those guys were actually pretty tough."

"Indeed." Mukuro checked her cybernetic arm. "It had been so long since I've faced her I had forgotten how strong an opponent Hatsuka was."

"You gonna be okay?"

"Yes. My powers will heal me just fine after I get some rest."

Kuwabara and Hiei arrived in the tunnel with Yukina, Shizuru, Keiko, Botan, and Genkai in tow.

Keiko ran at Yusuke at full speed, "Yusuke!" She jumped into his arms and hugged him.

"Hey," Yusuke chuckled as he held her.

Hiei walked up to Mukuro and looked her over. "You look like you were actually in a fight."

"If you think I look bad," Mukuro smirked, "you should see our opponents."

"I would've liked to," Misawa said as he rounded the corner. "Bet it was one hell of a fight."

Upon seeing him, Yusuke laughed, "HEY! Misawa!"

"Sword Master!" Kurama said.

"Hello, everyone," Misawa greeted with a smile. "Good to see you all."

"What are you doing here?"

"Came to the island in case you guys needed any help."

"He helped my bros save us and their sorry hides," Shizuru said. "Since that Udai guy and that Nanae chick were beating them left, right, and sideways."

Hiei and Kuwabara shot looks of anger at her.

"Is that the disappearing gratitude you mentioned?" Hiei asked his brother-in-law.

"Yep," Kuwabara said, followed by both of them letting out an exasperated sigh.

Botan had been biting her nails at everything. It was the first time something even remotely breathing normally had happened in a while. "Yusuke…"

Everyone turned to her.

She lowered her hand and smiled. "Thank you…"

He gave her a thumbs up. "We're almost home free, Botan. Told you we had this."

"Yes, you did. And still thank you."

"No problem. Just a one more round and we'll be headed for home before you know it."

"I can't wait." Botan fell silent for second then looked at Kurama. "Can I… speak to you for a moment?"

He was a little curious at that but nodded, "Of course." He looked at everyone, "Excuse us." They walked away from the group, preceding down the tunnel.

After they left, Genkai looked at Yusuke, "So sure you can deliver on that promise?"

"I'm not saying it'll be easy," Yusuke admitted. "But I sure as hell don't plan to lose to Arashi, that's for sure." He looked at the remainder of his team. "I'm sure we can all agree on that."

"Damn right," Kuwabara said while Hiei and Mukuro nodded.

"Good attitude," Genkai smiled. "Now, then, as far as what I just saw in the Semi-Finals: not bad, kiddo. Using the Spirit Wave to force those two demons apart was a good idea. You finally learned to use your head."

"Well, we were down three to five," Yusuke said. "Besides, all the credit, I think, should go to Mukuro. If Hatsuka had been in that mix, we'd have our asses handed to us."

Mukuro smiled and nodded. "I appreciate your words."

Shizuru reached into her pocket, "Well, I'm gonna go have a smoke."

"You sure that's good idea?" Yukina asked, concerned. "To go walking around by yourself?"

"I doubt anyone will come after me that soon. Besides, Misawa's here. I'll be fine. If anyone does come kidnap me, he can easily save me."

The green clad swordsman chuckled while Hiei and Kuwabara rolled their eyes.

"Whatever," Kuwabara said. "Just do your best to not get kidnapped again."

Shizuru put a cigarette to her lips. "I'll do my best."

Once they were out of the sight of the others, Botan suddenly grabbed Kurama's wrist and led him out of the stadium, running at top speed. Kurama was surprised by her sudden fervor and he almost thought something was wrong because of her urgency. He wanted to ask her what was the matter but it was everything he could do just to keep up with her pace. He had no idea she was this fast. They finally stopped in the forest when Botan decided they were far enough away from the others. She stopped them by a tree that was not too far from the stadium's entrance.

Kurama thought it best to finally ask why the hurry. "Botan, wha…" he barely got that much out before Botan lips were on his again, sending landing back first against the tree. He got the answer to the question he didn't even get to ask. And he was just fine with the answer; in fact, he preferred it.

She had been waiting for what felt like forever to do this. When she saw Keiko jump into Yusuke's arms in the tunnel, it was everything she could do to stop herself from doing the same with Kurama. She was very desperate to kiss him after the Semi-Finals. She wanted to kiss him the second it was over but she knew had to wait and hold back. She sure wasn't holding anything back now, though. She loved the feeling she got when she could kiss him and she was afraid that she was about to lose that. She was afraid she was close to losing him.

After the kiss, she stopped and looked at him, a little dumbfounded. "I'm sorry. I… I don't know where tha…"

She was cut off this time by his lips crashing into hers. She had no problem abandoning her words for this, especially since he initiated it. They proceeded to make out for several minutes, ignoring how long they were kissing and the world around them for just a few precious moments. Just a few moments that belonged to the two of them and no one else.

Shizuru happened by, smoking a cigarette, saw the two, and paused. "Whooooooa…" she said, quietly. She turned around and went back the other way, hoping they didn't hear her.

She didn't have to worry about, though. It wasn't until they broke the kiss that they became aware of the world around them again. They were taking deep breaths as their faces were centimeters from each other. They looked into each other's eyes and Kurama took hold of her hand and interlocked her fingers with his.

"I'm sorry…" Botan whispered. "F-for…"

"Please, don't apologize," Kurama beseeched. "I know that must've been frightening for you."

"Try terrifying," she admitted. She looked at their connected hands. "But you made it. All of you did it."

"We did it. You know it takes all of us to make it this far."

"I haven't done anything but cause these problems in the first place."

"You're cheering us on. That always helps."

She looked him in the eyes. "How do you always know just what to say?"

"I don't. I just… say what I feel."

"Can you keep doing that? For me?"

"Absolutely."

"Hold me?"

Without another word, he, tenderly, wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. She closed her eyes and slowly put her arms around his neck.

Arashi sat, silently seething, on his throne. Despite their best efforts, Team Urameshi survived the Semi-Finals. They would be completely ready for the Finals. If anything, it seemed that their resolve was strengthened.

It led the Lord of Deathlocke to the only logical statement he could make, "This… is not good." He looked at his team, who were standing around his throne. "It appears all of our skills will be put to the test, after all."

"It seems that have become rather sure of themselves," Taka said. "They seem to be quite fearless."

The demon sorcerer sat for a few more contemplative minutes. Then, he smirked. "So, that leaves one course of action… we will put fear into them." He stood up and looked at his servants. "You have all decided who you wish to face. You will approach them now. You will show them your power. And, during your matches tomorrow, show no mercy, give no quarter, remind Team Urameshi how deadly and dangerous we truly are."

"Yes, Master," they all said, simultaneously.

He looked at his miniature servant, "Tap. Summon Yusuke to me. I wish to speak with him. Alone."

"Of course, Lord," Tap bowed.

"The rest of you, go. Go and plant the seeds of fear. They will fully bloom at the Finals."

A little later on, Kurama and Botan were walking through of the forest, holding hands, and heading back for the hotel when Kurama sensed a very evil presence nearby. He ceased walking, causing Botan to do the same.

"What's wrong?" she asked him.

The red haired warrior looked around and sensed the evil behind a nearby tree. They walked forward and found Taka leaning his back against the tree and fingering a piece of fruit. Kurama stared daggers at the tranquil servant of Arashi while cautiously pulling Botan closer to him.

"Can we help you?" Kurama asked him.

Taka smiled. "Do you know me, Yoko?"

"Yes. You're Taka. You are called the Calm Beast."

The black haired minion chuckled. "I don't interact with many people anymore. I had forgotten that name." He pushed himself off of the tree, standing up straight with his height being a bit over Kurama's. "But it is very satisfying to hear that I am still feared."

"You are known. I have no fear of you."

"No." He chuckled. "Perhaps not." He looked over at Botan. "But I know she does."

Botan shied back further behind Kurama.

Kurama didn't mind sheltering her. "She may, indeed. But she won't have after you lose to me in the Tournament."

"Oh?" Taka folded his arms. "Are you declaring that you wish to battle me in the Finals, then?"

"Yes."

The black haired demon chuckled. "Very good, Yoko. I was going to challenge you but you saved me the trouble." He took a bite of the fruit then nodded, contemplatively. He swallowed the food. "It should be an interesting match. You will have the honor of learning why they call me the Beast firsthand." He started to walk away but stopped. "And… after I kill you and my master wins this Tournament…" He turned around. "…that girl will belong to my master."

Botan's breath started to come out shorter as fear rushed into her heart.

"You will keep your eyes away from her and keep your threats to yourself!" Kurama declared in a commanding voice. "I will fight you in the Finals and you will know defeat."

Taka scoffed.

"But know this: you ever threaten her again… I will end you quicker than even you can possibly imagine."

Taka smiled a toothy, dangerous grin. He was pleased that he could bring out the dangerous side of Kurama without even doing anything but speaking. "I look forward to seeing if you can keep that promise. I advise you watch the Semi-Finals tomorrow. They will prove to be most enlightening." He walked away, "By your leave, Kurama." He left the two alone for now, continuing to eat his fruit as he left.

Botan wrapped her arms around Kurama's abdomen out of fear and he put his arms around her, holding her close. He stared at Taka until he was out of sight. They would have their time and it would be war.

Taking some time away from the others, Hiei and Mukuro were walking around the stadium when they happened upon Misawa.

"I supposed you're looking for a thank you," Hiei said, smirking.

Misawa just chuckled. "Not really. It wouldn't be like you to thank me more than once in a single lifetime, Hiei."

Mukuro chuckled quietly. "You could be a little more grateful. He did help you save your sister." She thought about it. "Twice."

Hiei groaned. "Don't remind me."

She stopped smirking when she sensed two evil powers approaching them. "If there is something we can help you with, by all means, please ask." She looked over her shoulder, as Hiei looked over his.

Indeed, Kumo and Bui walking around the corner and loomed toward the trio.

Mukuro and Hiei turned around while Misawa stepped forward, to provide support for his allies, in case anything happened.

"Demon King Mukuro," Kumo said. "I still find it a little hard to be believe that you are actually here."

"My skills were requested," Mukuro said. "So, here I am."

Kumo propped her arm up with her other and rested her hand on her fist. "Hmmm. Hatsuka was wrong."

Mukuro raised an eyebrow.

"You are quite weak."

Mukuro just squinted her visible eye at her enemy.

"You take your own life into your hands, milady," Misawa said. "I would advise you and your large cohort walk away."

Hiei scoffed. "Bui should most definitely walk away." He smirked, "Unless I have to embarrass him again."

Bui growled, breathing harshly through his mask. "Arrogant, little…!" He took a step forward before Kumo stopped him.

"Take it easy, Bui," Kumo smiled. She looked at the short sword master. "You have quite the tongue on you, Hiei. And quite effective at that. Bui never gets mad."

"He's just pissed because the last time we fought I beat him and let him live his shame," Hiei stated. "I imagine I'd be angry myself. But… then again…" He chuckled. "I won."

Kumo chuckled herself. "Well, then… the Finals should prove very interesting. I hope you all will attend our Semi-Final match. I would hate for any of you to be surprised at our methods."

Hiei scoffed again. "To watch Bui use the same tricks as before? No, thanks. I'm already well prepared for anything he can throw at me."

Kumo smiled. "We shall see." She touched Bui's arm, nodding at him that they should leave.

Reluctantly, he agreed. He looked at Hiei. "We will meet in battle, Hiei. And I will kill you."

Hiei smirked. "Don't make promises you clearly can't keep."

The armored demon growled.

"That's enough, Bui," Kumo warned. She looked at the opposing team members. "Until we meet again." The servants of Arashi left.

Misawa chuckled. "You never change, Hiei."

"After this long, what's the point?" Hiei asked.

"I've grown accustomed to it," Mukuro smiled.

"Who hasn't?" Misawa smirked.

"I'll take both statements as a compliment," Hiei replied.

Yusuke, Keiko, Kuwabara, Yukina, Genkai, and Shizuru were walking away from the stadium, heading back for the hotel when they caught sight of Tap and Hojo.

Yusuke recognized the short demon, instantly. "You're that little creep who was at Goto's castle."

"My name is Tap, boy!" the short demon shouted.

"Your name's about to be 'dead' if you keep that attitude up!"

Hojo laughed as Tap took a step back.

"What's so funny, loser?" Kuwabara shouted.

"You humans amuse me." Hojo looked at him. "Especially you pure bloods who think you have a chance here."

"Done pretty well so far."

"Against weaklings. You wouldn't last any longer than a few minutes against me."

"We'll see about that!" Kuwabara pointed at green haired demon, "That's why you and me are going mano y mano in the Finals!"

Hojo chuckled. "I look forward to it, human." He looked him over. "I wonder how quickly will your bones snap."

"They ain't gonna!"

"I'll be the judge of that."

"Fine by me!"

"Anyway, what do you losers want?" Yusuke asked. "Just come to show us your stupid faces?"

"My master wishes an audience with you, Yusuke Urameshi," Tap explained. "Alone. Will you come?"

Narrowing his eyes at the tiny demon, Yusuke let his mind dwell on that for a few seconds. He wasn't sure if Arashi could be trusted. But, he was curious as to what the sorcerer wanted. He smiled. "Sure, why not? Let's go." He started to walk off.

Kuwabara put his hand on his oldest friend's shoulder, causing him to stop, "Hold on, Urameshi."

"Don't worry about it, Kuwabara." Yusuke looked at him. "If he's stupid enough to try something, then we'll just end this sooner." He looked at Tap, "Let's get going."

Yusuke went to Arashi's box seat in the stadium, walking in with all the caution he could without letting any show. He found the demon sorcerer sitting another one of his extravagant thrones.

"What? Do you just have a bunch these stockpiled?" Yusuke asked, referring to Arashi's cathedra.

The Sorcerer laughed. "I like to be comfortable."

"Guess I can't blame a guy for that." The Mazoku put his hands on his hips, "So, you called me. What do you want?"

Arashi leaned on his fist. "How long do you plan on keeping this up?"

"Until I'm dead or you are."

"More likely the former than the latter, in my opinion."

"Like I give a damn what you think."

Arashi chuckled. "I'd be lying if I said your arrogance didn't keep me entertained, Yusuke."

"Glad you're having a good time."

"Despite your comrades' unwillingness to die, I am, actually. But, I have to ask you something."

"Alright. Shoot."

"What do you plan to do, Yusuke? Toguro made the error of showing his power beforehand. In their own way, so did Yomi and Sensui. You know nothing of me."

"And I'll still kick your ass and keep you away from Botan." He stepped forward. "I don't care what you can do. It's never mattered to me what my enemies can or can't do. I know what I can do. And, even if it kills me, I will find a way to win."

The Sorcerer was silent for a few seconds as he stared at the young man. Had Arashi had an actual heart, he would've been impressed on Yusuke's words. "All this fuss over my daughter. She can't possibly mean that much to you."

"The hell she doesn't."

His responses were, honestly, surprising Arashi. "Why, I'm curious."

Yusuke thought about telling him to go to hell but he paused. "Do you really wanna know?"

"Indeed, I do."

He put his hands in his pockets. "I don't have a lot of people who have had my back no matter what. Not used to it. Botan's only the second person I remember doing that for me, after Keiko. Call me a loyal dog… but I stick by the people who stick by me. And I don't let them get taken by demons who want their souls."

"Heart."

"Whatever." He took a step closer. "The point is… I'm not going to give her up. You want her? You meet me in the ring, try to beat me, and take her. And, spoiler alert: you'll have to kill me to beat me."

Arashi chuckled, quietly. "Yusuke… that was my plan all along."

"Good." He smiled. "Then, at least, I'll get a fun fight out of you. I'm not expecting much of one, anyway."

"I intend to surprise you, then."

"In the words of a famous guy from Earth: just bring it, bitch."

Arashi laughed. "This should be fun." He nodded, politely, "Good day, Urameshi."

"Later, Arashi." Yusuke turned around and left.

The demon sorcerer just smiled to himself and sat back. The Finals were going to prove to be quite the interesting affair.

A/N: Alright, so, we are almost to the Finals and things are shaping up to be pretty interesting. All team members have already staked their claim as to who they will face and they all seem ready for the Finals. It's almost time!

Next Chapter: Calm Before The Storm

Team Arashi makes violent examples of their opponents in their Semi-Final match, sending a message to Team Urameshi as to what they are in store for. Afterward, the Team prepares for the Finals in their own way and Kurama and Botan take a few more moments to themselves. And Botan makes a surprising request to Kurama.