A.N Well, looks like this chapter didn't take as long as I thought, but it's certainly more lengthy than I originally intended. But that just means you guys get more content!

Wolfs Child: You got your wish. I'm so glad you like it so far, please follow so you never miss a chapter!

Summerneverlasts: What a nice coincidence for you? I did put quite a bit of thought into Sakura when creating her and that name just spoke to me. Is my Sakura anything like how you envisioned? So you'd like to see her with Hiei? Hmm ;) wait and see!

Hina714: Yes, Yusuke certainly is a big sweetheart when it comes to his sister, and after what happened with Hiei, he'll probably get even more protective.

Damaged Forest Spirit: In a way, Sakura allows me to say all the things the viewers might be thinking while watching the anime. And lets just say Yusuke isn't going to let Sakura out of his sight anytime soon after what happened to her. I have plans for Sakura and Genkai, don't you worry!

I don't own YYH, just my OCs. Please review, follow and favourite if you're enjoying the story. The reviews make me so happy and inspire me to keep going, so if you want more, that's the best thing you can do to spur me on.

Chapter 13

With their first case closed, the Urameshi twins returned to a somewhat normal routine. Sakura was no longer tolerating Yusuke skipping school, but begrudgingly refrained from objecting to the often daily class truancy.

True to his word, Yusuke had started to train Sakura in combat and to his surprise, she excelled in her lessons. Physically, she wasn't quite as strong as he was, but what she lacked in power was more than made up for in speed and evasion.

"Good, now dodge, turn and get your opponent in a hold," Yusuke encouraged Sakura during a training session on the school roof during lunch hour.

Sakura followed the instructions. "Like this?"

"Nah, it's more of a pivot, you know? The way you're doing it will slow you down. Remember, you have to use your size to your advantage. So try again, slowly,"

"Sorry to interrupt, you two, but I have a message from Koenma!" Botan sang out.

Sakura paused and wiped the sweat from her brow. "Oh hey, Botan. What's happening - OW!" She rubbed her head and gave Yusuke a death stare. "Do you mind?!"

"Not at all," Yusuke grinned, rocking back and forth on his heels. "What did I say about letting your guard down?"

"Look who's talking," Sakura grumbled. "Sorry Botan, what were you saying?"

Botan sat down. "Your next mission has arrived, a crash course in the art of infiltration!"

"Slow down," Yusuke held up a hand. "Infil-what?"

"Infiltration. It's a sophisticated term for going undercover," Botan explained. "Although I'm sure you knew that already, right Sakura?"

"Yep. Unlike genius here, I actually paid attention in Year 5,"

"I'm standing right here, you damn brat!" Yusuke glowered. "Anyway, where am I going? Spirit World?"

"Oh no, you'll be staying here on Earth, of course," Botan smiled. "An old human acquaintance of Koenma's is looking for an apprentice to teach her powers to. That will be you," she told Yusuke.

"Sounds boring," he grunted. "So who's the nice old lady?"

"Be careful what you call her," Botan cautioned. "Her name is Genkai, and she's one of the greatest psychics in the world,"

"A psychic?" The word caught Sakura's interest.

Botan nodded. "It's been a long time since she's had an apprentice, but I guess she feels her end is drawing near. Most times people want to leave something behind, and for her, it's this secret power. According to Koenma, it's a mighty psychic attack that can either protect or destroy hundreds of people, depending on the user of course,"

"So you want me to learn the old lady's powers instead of some other guy who might use them incorrectly. Is that it?" Yusuke guessed.

Botan grinned. "Yes. That's essentially it, but I've still got a lot more to tell you,"

"Go on," Sakura was giving her undivided attention.

Botan hesitated. Out of curiosity, Sakura connected to Botan's mind. She was remembering Koenma's exact words…

"Furthermore, it will be a good chance to train Yusuke. That lazy kid won't ever get better unless someone forces it down his throat!"

"Hmm, better leave that part out," Botan muttered.

"What was that?" Yusuke had heard. Sakura suppressed a grin.

"Y-yes, I was just saying how dangerous this mission is going to be!" Botan said quickly. "Spirit World intelligence has informed me that an apparition by the name of Rando will almost definitely be going after Genkai's technique,"

"Rando?" Yusuke deadpanned.

"Why do I get the sense of impending doom?" Sakura groaned.

"He's a human hunter, hiding in the shadows of the living world waiting for prey," explained Botan. "He's stolen the power of 99 psychics so far,"

Sakura gulped. "I'll give the guy credit. He's dedicated,"

"When Rando steals a technique, he manipulates it into his own style and then uses it on humans to test his new strength. Rando kills until he finds the limits of his powers, and that's why with Genkai's technique, it could be a very long time,"

"Huh," Yusuke looked remarkably calm. "All this seems like a pretty major crisis for mankind,"

"So let's go!" Botan urged.

"But on the other hand, it means I won't be able to do anything relaxing on this three day weekend…" Yusuke said thoughtfully.

Sakura's jaw practically hit the ground. Botan looked as though she was ready to scream, and she did. "MANKIND OR VACATION?" she shrieked, red in the face.

"Well they've got the same importance to me, ok?!" Yusuke yelled back. He leaned back against the wall, hands in pockets. Botan growled. Sakura took two steps towards her twin. SMACK!

"OW! What the hell was that for, you damn brat?!" Yusuke hissed while clutching his head.

"What do you think?!" Sakura shouted. "You're seriously going to put everyone at risk so your lazy ass can stay in bed all weekend playing video games? Have you lost your mind?!"

"Sakura," Botan spoke in a much calmer tone. She paced around the rooftop and gave Sakura a conspiratorial look. "Alright, Yusuke," she smiled. "Perhaps I forgot to tell you. There's a super special bonus for completing this mission,"

"What?" Yusuke sounded less interested than ever.

With a flourish, Botan produced a bright red and yellow ticket. "Your very own ticket to the main event for the World Battle Match at Tokyo Dome!"

Yusuke leapt to his feet, practically salivating with excitement. "Well, don't just stand there, let's go!" he raced off down the stairs.

Sakura turned to Botan. "That...was brilliant,"

"Boys aren't overly complicated, Sakura," Botan winked. "I've learned that much. Will you come too? We're not asking you to compete for the apprenticeship, but I'm sure Master Genkai would love to meet you and your telepathy,"

"Just try and keep me away," Sakura declared. "I don't know about this technique, but if I can help at all, I want to be there,"

"Look," Sakura pointed towards a huge stone stairway. "I think that's the way to Genkai's place,"

Yusuke groaned. "Now we gotta climb all those stairs to meet some old hag?"

Of all the things Sakura had never thought she'd witness, seeing Yusuke hiking through the woods was definitely at the top of the list. Even after battling demons, encounters with enchanted artefacts and taking orders from a toddler, some things still managed to surprise her. What didn't surprise her was the minor tantrum he was having.

"Man, this is lame," Yusuke grumbled. "How'd Botan convince me to do this on a weekend?"

"Awww, come on bro. Being out here in nature is kind of nice, don't you think?"

"Speak for yourself, Squirt. I don't enjoy being attacked by mosquitoes," Yusuke retorted, swatting said insects away.

"It's called insect repellent, Yusuke. And I offered it to you before we left,"

Yusuke slammed his bag down. "Ok, fine! Just hand it over now, would you?!"

Sakura rolled her eyes and dug in her backpack for the canister. When handing it to Yusuke, she caught sight of the mosquito stings on his arms. "You know Yusuke, I hate to say it, I really do, but it's got to be said. I told you s -"

"Did you know 'I told you so' has a brother? His name's shut the hell up!" snapped Yusuke.

Sakura held up her hands in surrender. "Fair enough," She sat down and took a sip from her water bottle.

"Stupid Botan, making me say yes like that," Yusuke continued ranting under his breath.

"Uh, spirit detective, new case, fate of mankind at stake, your damn job, any of these ringing a bell?" Sakura huffed.

"Yeah, yeah. I know. I mean, if I mess this up and Rando kills everyone, there won't even be a Tokyo Dome. At least the other way I would have had a three day weekend…"

"You're not going to mess this up, bro. I think you're forgetting that I'm also here," Sakura smiled and tapped her head. "Remember?"

Yusuke's annoyance was briefly interrupted by a smile. "Just give me five minutes. I don't think it's much further but I just need to breathe for a second,"

Sakura jumped up. "If you're so keen to stop, how about sparring practice?"

Yusuke yawned. "I don't know Squirt, you sure that's a good idea?"

Sakura tilted her head to the side. "Hi, who are you and what have you done with my brother?"

Yusuke didn't reply. He was far more interested in guzzling from his own water bottle.

"OK, fine. I'll be right back," Sakura walked a short distance away shaking her head. This forest area was not one she'd explored much, and she was interested in what she might find.
A patch of flowers caught her attention. She crouched down and examined the magenta daisies closely. She recognised them. They were sakurasou, similar to the cherry blossoms she had been named for and matched the colour of her spirit blast attack. Sakura delicately plucked one of the blooms and tucked it into the elastic band holding her ponytail.

A rustling sound caused Sakura to snap to attention. No, the sound seemed to be coming from the trees above. Logic would say most likely an animal, but the knot in her stomach suggested otherwise.
Sakura looked around cautiously. "Yusuke? Is that you?" she silently gathered energy to the palm of her hand, ready to strike.

Another rustle, from behind. Her brown eyes darted to the apparent source and narrowed as she saw a flash of metal… like a katana.

Damn it. Sakura growled internally. Don't tell me it's that three eyed freak!

Hands suddenly twisted her arm behind her back. Sakura let out a short cry and kicked as hard as she could, but missed her assailant.

"Too slow, Squirt!"

"Yusuke! What the actual hell are you doing?!"

"Sparring practice. It's what you wanted, right?"

"Yeah, but I don't remember asking to be freaking ambushed from behind!" Sakura twisted her neck and caught a glimpse of her brother's mischievous grin. She growled and tried to fling him around, but he took advantage of that to throw her off balance to the ground, where he pinned her.

"I believe that's what we call a win," he smirked. His eyes were dancing with delight.

"No fair," Sakura complained, attempting to free herself without success.

"Fights against an enemy never are, Squirt. You need to understand that. Let's add it to the list of things to work on. Along with reflexes, breaking out of holds, general self awareness…"

Sakura coughed, still trying to get out of his hold. "That's rich coming from you, Mr. I Don't Know Why My Girlfriend's Upset About Botan,"

"Shut up, Squirt!" Yusuke jumped back defensively. "Keiko is not my girlfriend. She's just a...friend,"

"Sure bro. Just keep telling yourself that and maybe someday you'll convince me," Sakura muttered, shooting off looks in all directions.

"Uh, Kura? You seem kind of rattled. Is everything ok?"

"I thought I heard something. Probably just a squirrel, but I guess I'm just a bit paranoid since..." she sighed, not wanting to mention what, or rather who she'd thought was there.

Yusuke's face took on an expression of guilt. "Are you still having nightmares about...what happened last week?"

If looks could kill, Yusuke would have dropped dead from the lethal glare Sakura sent his way. "What did you just say?"

"Well uh, I kind of heard you screaming in your sleep since, you know...Hiei."

Sakura stiffened but didn't respond. Yusuke nervously scratched the back of his head. "I didn't mean to pry or anything but it was kinda hard not to hear you the last few nights,"

Sakura's throat was tight. "Who says it was about that three-eyed freak?" But she knew he was right. Since the warehouse, Hiei had landed a starring role in her dreams each time she closed her eyes. How many times had she seen Yusuke get stabbed by the Shadow Sword, or witnessed Keiko transform into a demon while Botan and Kurama lay dead on the floor? How long would she be forced to relieve being tied up and feel that hideous knife pressing into her flesh? Everywhere she looked, those three red eyes haunted her.

Yusuke saw the colour drain from his sister's face. "You know, Kura, maybe if you talked about what happened you'd feel better...it's ok to be scared of Hi -"

"Finish that sentence and I guarantee you'll wish you hadn't," Sakura said coldly. "I don't want to talk about it. That shrimp doesn't scare me. I'm fine. Let's keep moving,"

Yusuke opened his mouth for a second, but decided to drop the topic, for now at least. He tossed Sakura's bag to her. "Come on, we're almost there,"

The twins didn't speak while climbing the stairs. Sakura kept her eyes straight ahead, determined to avoid the one topic she absolutely did not want to discuss. Yusuke was at a loss. Seeing his sister in pain was maddening, but what could he do? Forcing her to talk surely wouldn't help. Maybe Botan would have an idea...

"I think that's the house," Yusuke said finally. He was right. At the very top was a traditional looking homestead, exactly the kind of place an old master would live. The vibe from the house made Sakura shiver, though she didn't know why.

"Now that's a weird vibe," Yusuke commented.

"Glad I'm not the only one," Sakura managed a small smile which Yusuke returned.

"Oh well," he sighed. "Once I don't get chosen, we can pretend it doesn't exist,"

The staggering crowd outside the complex did nothing to bolster any hope that Yusuke would be the successful candidate. Maybe if they'd lined up a week earlier their chances would've improved.

The twins stared around at the colourful array of attendees. "Haven't seen this many freaks since that comic book convention," Yusuke whispered to Sakura. She giggled.

"Urameshi?" Yusuke looked around at the sound of his name. The speaker's dulcet tones sounded horribly familiar...

Sakura closed her eyes. "Please tell me that isn't who I think it is!" she pleaded to the sky. Unfortunately for Sakura, it was.

"Kuwabara?" Yusuke called blankly to their classmate, who looked just as bewildered.

Great. That's all I need. Spending my time with these two punching each other out.

Kuwabara ran over. "And Sakura as well? What the heck is going on? I mean what are you two doing here?"

"We've got good reasons. Unlike some people," Yusuke said pointedly.

"You think I don't?" Kuwabara folded his arms in defiance. "OK, I'll tell you. It seems my power to see ghosts and spooky stuff has gone up greatly in the past few weeks. It's getting to where I can't even concentrate on my fighting, you know? Then I heard Master Genkai can fix up the symptoms, so I came here to pay her a visit,"

Yusuke listened with a generous dose of skepticism, but Sakura kept a very straight face. "Sounds like great minds think alike," she said cheerfully, earning a glare from Yusuke.

"I knew you'd understand, Sakura," Kuwabara looked pleased. "But look at this line!"

Yusuke looked at his rival like he'd just sprouted an extra head. "Hey! Now look, I agree you need therapy, but are you sure this lady's into that? OW! Kura!"

"Go on, Kuwabara," Sakura wrapped her brother's neck in a headlock. "We're listening,"

"Oh Sakura, how did Urameshi end up with such a sister? Beautiful and considerate," Kuwabara's shining eyes almost immediately knitted themselves back into a frown directed at Yusuke. He poked a gigantic finger into Yusuke's nose. "Don't be such an ignoramus, Urameshi! Master Genkai happens to be an expert at the great Spirit Wave technique! She can do about anything with a person's spirit, and that includes turning the volume way down on mine!"

It was the longest speech the twins had ever heard from Kuwabara's mouth. Yusuke had all but given up trying to follow at this point.

"Right, 'Spirit Wave'...everybody knows about that," he said condescendingly and wrenched himself free from his sister's grip.

Kuwabara immediately grabbed him by the collar. "THIS ISN'T SCHOOL, SO DON'T PRETEND LIKE YOU'RE NOT A DOOFUS!"Kuwabara put him down and turned away, muttering furiously to himself.

Yusuke rolled his eyes and fixed Sakura with an icy stare. "What the hell did you slap me for Squirt?"

"One, payback for earlier," Sakura said coolly, then lowered her voice "Two, remember who's body helped you talk to Keiko while floating around as a ghost?"

"Remember? I'll spend the rest of my life trying to forget!" Yusuke shuddered. "Look, if that lamebrain finds out about Spirit World, what's going to stop him from telling everyone?"

Sakura raised an eyebrow. "And who on earth would believe him? The day anyone at school takes Kuwabara seriously is the day hell freezes over,"

"Shhhh!" a couple of attendees nearby frowned at the trio. A hush was falling over the crowd, but a few continued to mutter excitedly.

"Quiet everyone! Genkai must be coming!"

The doors to the building slid open. "My my, quite a crowd," a voice said silkily.

This is it, our first glimpse of Master Genkai. Out of the darkness stepped a figure. Sakura stood on her toes to see and heard Yusuke gasp slightly at what they saw.

In the doorway stood a tiny old woman, maybe three feet tall with a red robe and purple hat. Wispy, pale pink hair floated down to her shoulders. She raised her withered head and looked out at the assembly without any hint of emotion.
Sakura's first thought was that Genkai had an aura of wisdom, not unlike the one possessed by Master Shinsuke, but none of the serenity. She could tell instantly this was a take-no-prisoners kind of woman, and a smile spread across her face.

"That little old hag is Genkai?" Yusuke muttered in disgust.

Sakura jabbed him in the side with her elbow. "Are you trying to piss me off?"

"All right, people. I supposed we should get things started," Genkai said. "The first of your screening tests will be...the drawing of lots!"

Except for Sakura, the entire crowd practically fell over in annoyance.

"Gah! How is that a test?!" Yusuke whined.

"Everyone must draw a lot from this old jar," Genkai ordered, pointing. "Come now, we haven't got all day,"

Well that figures. The old lady's up and gone senile! Yusuke groaned internally with poorly concealed rage on his face.

Sakura couldn't help giggling. "Not quite what you were expecting, huh?"

"Huh? Oh right...you heard," Yusuke shook it off.

Begrudgingly, the crowd formed a line along with the twins and Kuwabara. The line moved slowly, and Sakura decided to test her mind expansion on Kuwabara. Someone she wasn't connected to already. She no longer needed time to find Yusuke's thanks to all the practice with Botan. Connecting to him was becoming a subconscious act, and likely Botan's mind would soon be as well.
Focus. Sakura pushed outwards into the dark void, searching for Kuwabara's door. It didn't take long, given how close he was standing. It was marked with a sword, for some reason. Open! Sakura instructed. With a creak, it obeyed.

One by one, the men waiting selected a slip of paper. Sakura seemed to be the only female in the vicinity aside from Genkai herself. Eventually, it was Yusuke and Kuwabara's turn.
Yusuke hesitated. Ok, calm down Yusuke. It's better this way. Odds are, I'll draw a blank, and then I can go home without Botan nagging me.

"Want a bet?" Sakura muttered to herself as Yusuke reached into the jar.

Damn it, I didn't come to be Genkai's student! Kuwabara's thoughts confirmed Sakura's successful connection and he followed suit.

Genkai's eyes flashed in her direction. "You, girl, aren't you drawing a lot?"

Sakura was slightly rattled at being addressed thus, but had the sense not to show it. "I wasn't planning on it, Master Genkai. Just came as moral support. He might not have made it up the stairs without me,"

"Hey, I'm standing right here you damn brat!"

Genkai snorted, the faintest hint of a knowing smile playing around her lips. "Is that so? Well, I want you to pick one anyway, Missy. Even if you're just here because this loudmouth needs someone to hold his hand. You don't have to participate in my challenge if you don't want to, but I'm curious. Try your luck,"

Sakura shrugged. "Sure, why not?" she reached forward and selected her own paper. Everyone looked at the tiny envelopes, waiting for the word.

"You did that fairly well. I'm impressed," Genkai addressed the crowd of hopefuls. "Let's all open our lots now. If the paper inside it is red, then congratulations, you have passed the first of today's screenings,"

A chorus of tearing paper echoed around the courtyard.

Please be blank, please be blank! Yusuke prayed. He gritted his teeth and ripped. Both his and Kuwabara's faces fell.

"Well lucky me, I won," they said together, then realised what had happened. They turned to face each other.

"Hey! You got a red one also?" Yusuke exclaimed in disbelief.

"Didn't mean to!" protested Kuwabara.

Sakura waved her own red token. "Check it out, so did I!" The boys looked at her, bug-eyed.

"HOW?" Yusuke almost yelled.

Sakura smirked. "What are the odds? Off to a great start, hey?"

"Those who won, please follow me. Those who lost, please get lost," Genkai turned around, but not before Sakura spotted her conspiratorial smile.

"I reckon there's more to that lot than just luck," Sakura said quietly. "The three of us all getting red seems a little too convenient,"

Very perceptive, my dear.

Sakura's heart skipped a beat. Was that..? Surely not. There was no way she could have just heard Genkai's voice in her mind. She had to be imagining things.

"Kura?" Yusuke was looking at her, slightly concerned.

"Uh oh," muttered Kuwabara. Sakura looked up and it wasn't hard to see what he was referring to.

Two gigantic figures, presumably ones that had lost, loomed over Genkai's miniature frame.

"Hold on! We are the two greatest fighters of all the Kyushu Mountain People!" one of them growled.

"We've come all this way because we heard you can make us greater," the other added. "You can't turn us away with a piece of paper!"

"Do you not see how big we are? You have to give us a fair shot!"

Genkai looked calmly at the two losers without a trace of fear. "The only difference with larger fighters is that they're louder when they whine," she sighed. "Can't you blockheads understand I'm just trying to save you from embarrassment?"

"This old lady is all kinds of awesome!" Sakura chortled.

The giants were far from amused. "I'm warning you!"

"This probably goes way beyond your comprehension, but please try to pay attention," Genkai huffed. "If you're really ready for my training, then why didn't your paper turn red?"

Giant Number One balled up his fists. "I think she's looking for more proof!" They both lunged for Genkai.

"HA!" Genkai's eyes blazed with light. The two giants were launched backwards, clean across the courtyard and into the entry gate.

"Wha…? What was that?" Kuwabara gasped.

She blew those guys away with her mind? Yusuke thought in shock. He turned to the old psychic. Now I'm interested.

Everyone else stood in stunned silence, except for Sakura who was paralysed with laughter.

"That...was...amazing!" she wheezed, wiping tears from her eyes. "Oh my God, I hope I'm like her at that age!"

"Alright, alright girl. Settle down," Genkai called out to Sakura. "It seems my powers are getting a bit rusty. A few years ago those oafs would've ducked their heads if I'd winked at them wrong. I guess I'm really getting old," She chuckled ruefully. "Alright, you red papers. Please follow me,"

Kuwabara hung back slightly to see if Sakura had recovered sufficiently. Yusuke kept his eyes on Genkai. He was grinning with determination, a look Sakura knew well.

So that's what her Spirit Wave does. I can see why monsters would want it for themselves. Oh yeah, I suppose it'd be a good idea to check to see if that Rando guy is already here in the crowd. An easy task for my trusty Demon Compass!

Good to know he hasn't forgotten why we came here. Sakura thought in approval.

Yusuke shook back his sleeve and twisted a knob on the compass. It began beeping frantically and the arrow spun wildly in all directions. The twins stared in awe. Then with a puff of smoke, the entire contraption exploded.

"Well so much for trusty," Yusuke joked weakly.

"Looks like you bought a crappy watch," Kuwabara commented.

Yusuke glanced at Sakura, who nodded. They both knew.

The power must have been too strong to handle. Yusuke informed Sakura through his thoughts. Well, I guess that settles it. Rando is here.

Yusuke's jaw dropped. "This is not a normal house,"

"Maybe she just likes video games?" Kuwabara suggested rather lamely.

"She. Is. Awesome," Sakura breathed in delight.

The room Genkai had led the contestants into looked more like a mix between a casino and an old school arcade than a training centre. Genkai took up her spot in a small metal cage of sorts suspended from the ceiling, high above the various consoles.

"I hope you've all brought your quarters! These games will be the second screening,"

"Please, Master?" a timid voice caught everyone's attention. "May I ask what playing video games has to do with learning great power?"

Sakura couldn't see the speaker, but Genkai smiled. "Absolutely nothing, really," she agreed. "But these are not ordinary games that you will be playing. The rock paper scissors game will test your spirit awareness. The punching game shows your spirit's strength. And the karaoke tests your energy's ability to adapt and grow stronger. If you cannot pass two out of three, then go home quickly. And don't play the other games. They're just for me," she added sternly.

The crowd quickly dispersed to the machines. Yusuke and Kuwabara did the same, while declaring war on each other. Sakura shook her head in annoyance and looked around, wondering what to do since she wasn't planning on participating. Although she had to admit the karaoke machine was calling her name.

Kuwabara scored 129 on the punching machine, only to be beaten by Yusuke's score of 155. Genkai seemed to notice this, along with Kuwabara's clean sweep of Rock Paper Scissors. Several other contenders seemed to stand out as well on the games, but this only made Genkai happier with calibre of potential students. Finally, the top 20 candidates were then led out to the third challenge.

Genkai presented a forest that looked like the set piece from a B-grade slasher film. "Now that the weak have been eliminated, the tests will be far more severe,"

"Master, the forest seems to have its own life force," the timid voice from earlier spoke again.

"Yes, to say the least," Genkai nodded. "It's known as the Dark Forest, and it's as old as the human race. It has become a sanctuary for the oldest and most primitive demons. On the other side of the forest is a giant tree. Make it there and you pass the test. You have two hours,"

"I'm not getting near that forest! I give up!"

"Yeah Genkai, I really wanted to be your student, but uh, I kinda want to live!"

With cries of fear, two fighters ran in the opposite direction.

Genkai laughed. "Yes, run along. I don't blame you. Even a person with the slightest spirit awareness can feel this forest tear you into pieces if you let it,"

Just looking at the forest was enough to make Sakura's skin crawl. She looked fearfully at Yusuke, scared for him.

"There is some truth to what this woman says," a fighter with green hair and scars said solemnly. "Only those who have gone through the training should cross into these woods. It is no place for a boy, for instance," he said in Yusuke's direction.

Yusuke scowled. "Speak for yourself. I'm not about to get scared off by a little walk through Grandma's forest,"

"Watch your mouth, you dumb little brat!" Genkai snapped.

Yusuke ignored her and approached the man who'd insulted him. "You're just trying to get rid of me so I won't learn Genkai's powers instead of you. Is that the big plan?" He furrowed his brow as something occurred to him. He looked the imposing figure up and down. "Say, you wouldn't happen to be a monster, would you?"

"Yusuke!" Sakura hissed.

Kuwabara yanked Yusuke back. "If you're gonna do this run, then so am I!" he vowed.

"Stop getting so excited. It's embarrassing," Yusuke glared.

"Why me?" Sakura facepalmed.

Genkai motioned for the runners to prepare, then beckoned to Sakura. "Girl, see that tree over there? The willow?" Genkai said quietly. Sakura nodded. "Good. As soon as this lot starts, go to the tree and press the knot on the trunk. It'll transport you to the finish line. I'll meet you there. I think we need to talk,"

"Yes, Master Genkai," Sakura approached Yusuke. "Yusuke...please be careful," she murmured, trying to hide her fear.

He squeezed her hand and gave her a confident smile. "I'll see you soon, Squirt. Promise,"

"Best of luck. I hope you don't die," Genkai said in a deadpan voice. "Ready, set, GO!"

The 18 remaining fighters took off. Genkai hopped around the group at an unbelievable speed, easily outrunning the others. Sakura waited til they were out of sight before examining the ancient willow tree.
As Genkai had said, there was a twisted knot on the trunk. "Here goes nothing," Sakura said aloud, and pressed the spot as instructed. The world around her went black as the ace of spades for a split second, but when Sakura opened her eyes, she found herself at the finish line, just like Genkai had promised. Now there was nothing else to do but wait.
She momentarily considered connecting with Yusuke or Kuwabara to see what they were up to, but decided against it. Watching them would only make her panic, and she was sure Genkai wouldn't be too impressed by that. Instead, she passed the time working on her Spirit Energy, forming small magenta orbs in her hands and bouncing them around to test their strength.

After about an hour, the old psychic came bounding out of the forest and hadn't even broken a sweat. "Good to see you can follow basic instructions, Missy," she said approvingly.

Sakura jumped to her feet and bowed. "Master Genkai,"

"You have strong spiritual awareness," Genkai said bluntly. "What can you do with it?"

"Uh, I'm a telepath and have the ability to connect my mind with people, but I haven't been doing it for long. Oh, and I can channel my spirit energy into an attack known as the Spirit Blast,"

"Show me," Genkai's demeanour was impassable. "Go on, girl. We're going to be waiting here a while, so let's see what you have,"

Sakura took a deep breath. Just do your best, she told herself sternly. She closed her eyes and positioned her hands. Focus. The energy began crackling like electricity and started gathering towards her hands. The three balls of light flickered forth, growing in power. They revolved in their triangular orientation, and with a cry, Sakura sent them flying. "Spirit Blast!"
The blast rocketed forward and straight through a nearby tree, slicing it clean apart.

Genkai looked Sakura up and down. "Not bad, not bad at all for a beginner. What's your name, girl?"

"Sakura Urameshi, Master," Sakura stammered. Though Genkai was small, she was nothing if not intimidating.

Genkai crossed her arms. "Urameshi? The newest student of my dear friend Master Shinsuke?"

Sakura's eyebrows flew up into her hairline. "You know Master Shinsuke?"

"He's the greatest living telepath. Of course I know him," Genkai said roughly. "We go way back. I assume you're the so-called prodigy he was raving about last week,"

"P-prodigy?" Sakura stammered. "I think that's an exaggeration. I've only had the one lesson with him so far,"

"Wrong," Genkai sniffed. "Master Shinsuke's been around long enough to know when he's dealing with natural skill. And frankly, I agree,"

"You do?"

Genkai nodded. "You were the only one this morning to figure out there was more to that lot drawing than chance. Those papers were treated to turn red in the hands of those with sufficient spirit energy. As soon as you said it, I'll admit you caught my interest. Being the only woman to show up didn't hurt either,"

"I...see," Sakura was at a loss for words.

Genkai turned to look at the Dark Forest. "That loudmouthed brat you came with, I'm assuming he's your brother?"

"Yes Master. We're twins," Sakura nodded.

"That boy has a strong destructive power. With proper training, he could become a very powerful force. A warrior, perhaps. And the other dolt with the stupid haircut, who's he?"

It took Sakura a moment to find her voice. "That's Kuwabara. He's a classmate of ours, but as you could probably tell, him and my brother spend more time fighting than studying,"

"He's seriously lacking in the brain department, but his awareness of the spirit world is exceptional. With his temper, I'm surprised he hasn't harnessed that into a weapon yet,"

"A weapon? You mean like the spirit gun?"

"Something like that. Anyway, you'd better take your lessons with Shinsuke seriously, Missy. His knowledge is priceless, so don't you dare waste it. That tea he serves isn't half bad either,"

Sakura's head was spinning. Yusuke, a warrior? And she'd never thought in a million years that the words 'Kuwabara' and 'exceptional' would be used in the same sentence. Plus, Genkai was friends with her own teacher...she'd have to ask Master Shinsuke about that next lesson.

Leaving Sakura to ponder, Genkai checked her stopwatch. "That's one hour, eight minutes and 20 seconds since I let those guys loose in there. I'd say it's about time I check on their progress," She must have used some sort of ability to gauge where they all were, because she smirked. "The closest one is five hundred yards away,"

Sakura paced frantically, forcing herself to slow down her breathing.

"If you're that worried about your dimwit brother, then use that brain of yours to see where he is," Genkai snapped without turning around.

Stunned, Sakura stopped dead in her tracks. She couldn't stand it anymore. She had to know, she had to see what was happening…

Yusuke scrambled through the vegetation. The leaves on his clothing and sweat pouring down his face indicated the effort required to get this far.

"See, I kept telling everyone this would be the best way to go," he panted. "There's not exactly a beaten path, but that's no biggie,"

A giant shadow loomed in front of him, and Yusuke was startled by a creepy disembodied voice.

"Look at this, little ones. A human boy has wandered into Baldock's territory. What shall Baldock do?"

Yusuke gasped. The monstrous bat creature revealed his face, complete with fangs and glowing red eyes...eyes just like…

"Baldock thinks he shall enjoy the free dinner!"

Sakura opened her eyes to find herself on the ground, soaked in sweat. Her throat burned like she'd been screaming, but she couldn't remember doing that.

"Only 15 minutes left," Genkai muttered. "They must be running into quite a bit of trouble. I hope I remember to rescue the stragglers after the two hours have passed," She turned to Sakura. "Oh look, Little Miss Scream-a-Lot finally decided to wake up from her nap. I don't think I've ever heard someone make so much racket. My poor eardrums,"

"Oh God, Yusuke! What happened? Why did I lose the connection?!" Sakura looked accusingly at the old lady.

"Because I closed it for you, Missy," Genkai informed her coolly. "You worry far too much about that boy. You need to learn to trust him,"

"Worry about him? He's my twin brother and he's already died once!" Sakura burst out.

"Whatever," Genkai sniffed. "I just hope Master Shinsuke is able to regulate those emotions of yours. If he can't, nobody can,"

Sakura fumed. So the old woman could interrupt her connection, could she? But Genkai's attention had been diverted to the lone figure emerging from the woods.

"I don't believe it," Sakura shook her head.

"Hello boy," Genkai said to Kuwabara.

"Am I really the first one here? Really?!" Kuwabara looked around wildly. Genkai nodded.

Kuwabara pumped his fist in the air, celebrating. "Yeah! Hehe, that's right, I'm cool. Look at me, Sakura, I beat Urameshi!"

"Well done," Sakura mumbled. She only had eyes for the forest edge. Come on, Yusuke. Where are you?

Two more fighters arrived, the green haired man who'd dismissed Yusuke at the beginning and a bald figure with a symbol on his forehead.

"I thought for sure we'd be the first ones," the bald one growled in irritation.

"We let ourselves have too much fun in there," shrugged Green Hair.

Sakura strained with all her might, trying to reach out and connect to Yusuke, but to no avail. She couldn't even see his door.

Save your strength, Missy. You'll connect with him again once I decide you can, capisce? A raspy voice told Sakura telepathically.

Sakura threw up her hands in defeat. You better come out of there alive, Yusuke. Or else.

"Hey Sakura, how did you get here so fast? Did you fly or something?" Kuwabara took a seat next to her.

"Yes, Kuwabara, I decided to take my training wings out for a test drive," Sakura growled irritably. "Genkai brought me here after you raced off. You didn't happen to see Yusuke at all in there, did you?"

Kuwabara shook his head. "Nope. Oh man, he's gonna be pissed when he finds out I beat him! Actually, what did you come here for? Can you see ghosts too?"

"Not exactly," Sakura tilted her gaze so she could look at Kuwabara, but keep one eye on the forest. "Yusuke could probably explain it a lot better than I can, but it turns out I can connect with people's minds, so here I am,"

Even Kuwabara's freckles went white. "YOU MEAN YOU CAN READ MY MIND?! WHAT KIND OF FREAK ARE YOU?!"

Sakura rubbed the back of her neck and glared at him. "Freak? Have you looked in the mirror lately, pal?"

Kuwabara settled down and seemed to realise what he'd said. "I'm sorry Sakura. You're too pretty to be a freak. Just don't read my mind without telling me first, ok?"

"Uh, sure," Sakura said awkwardly. Good thing he doesn't know I already have.

Genkai snapped her watch shut. "Times up. Only you seven have passed,"

Kuwabara gasped. "Wait a second, there should be one more guy coming!"

"Sorry," Genkai shrugged. "I never make exceptions,"

Great! Sakura groaned to herself. If he's not dead, I'll have to listen to him and Kuwabara fighting about it for the next six months!

"Wait for me!"

"What?!" Genkai looked over. Everyone turned to see Yusuke stumbling towards the finish line. Sakura relaxed slightly when she saw he didn't look too roughed up.

"Urameshi!" Kuwabara called.

"You know suddenly I'm reminded of a fortune cookie I ate that said the straight way is not always the fastest," Yusuke grizzled.

A look of surprise flashed across Genkai's face. "But listen boy, surely you didn't go straight through the Dark Forest. You would have faced a lethal man bat!"

"What, you mean Baldock?" Yusuke looked at her blankly. "Yeah, he was hanging out with me for a while. That guy was fast, but not nearly as fast as Hiei," A devious smile curved up his lips. "I took care of him real good though. You'll see!" he burst out laughing.

Genkai glanced back at Sakura, then to Yusuke. Who is this boy? And his sister?

Exactly what Yusuke had done to Baldock, nobody ever knew. Yusuke's laughter was cut off as Kuwabara dragged him up to eye level by the collar.

"Don't you see you've got no reason to laugh, idiot? You went over the time limit!"

"Uh, what?!" Yusuke gasped. "Is that true?"

Genkai closed her eyes and smiled serenely. "It seems to be, but I believe I will make an exception,"

Sakura pressed her hands to her head in relief. Yusuke and Kuwabara threw their arms around each other in a tight hug.

"Yeah!"

"We did it!"

"Three, two one," Sakura muttered. Right on cue, the boys sprang apart and glowered at each other.

"Why don't you quit hugging me, you weirdo?"

"You're the one hugging. I was trying to squeeze you to death!" Both of them got right in each other's faces, giving looks filled with acid. Sakura ran up behind Yusuke and grabbed him tightly around the waist.

"What the...oh hey Squirt. Having fun?"

"You did it!" Sakura's eyes shone with pride.

Yusuke chuckled. "Yeah, guess I did. Bring on the final round!"

Both boys were in the top 8. The only question was, what would the semifinals be?

Next chapter: The semi finals begin, and Genkai has big plans for Sakura.

I only have one week of college left for the year, so I promise the next chapter isn't far away. Any ideas, please don't be shy to share them. If they're used, you'll get full credit :)

Rosentic