A.N. Here we are, the end of the Saint Beasts Arc. Take a deep breath because this one is intense!

Hina714: You didn't have to wait long. And there's a lot of suspense in this chapter too. I'm honoured that I changed your mind. This arc wasn't my favourite in the anime either, and I wanted to see if I could make it more exciting. How lovely that you think Sakura should have been in the anime. It means more to me than I can say.

Damaged Forest Spirit: Haha! Always leave them hanging! All your questions will be answered this chapter. Enjoy!

Grimmjowlover314: Super Saiyan...well I love the idea but this isn't a crossover. Though he definitely would if it was. Kurama won't be happy, but Hiei's reaction may surprise you. Thanks for your kind words.

hw0134160: Yes, the tokage have certainly earned the wrath of many, and the boys are not going to be happy. You'll be glad to know this chapter is nice and long with a lot of action and suspense. As for the Dark Tournament, I wasn't planning on Atsuko at this point, but I have a lot of other ideas in mind. Thankyou for your support. You're fantastic.

ThoughtsOfTurmoil and bluerose921: Thankyou so much. Sakura has grown a lot and she has a long way to go.

grace-adalyn: Protective Yusuke is the best. You're very welcome and I hope you like this one. Chapter 24 is coming soon!

Please follow, favourite and review, review, review. The more feedback the more I write, so if you want more that's the best way you can help it happen.

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 23

A hidden panel on the floor slid away. From the hold rose three hideous lizard demons.

"Ah, my faithful tokage have returned. And I see you brought me a gift," A wide smile of pleasure spread across Suzaku's face. "I trust all went well?"

Tora bowed slightly. "Target acquired and delivered with no unnecessary injuries, per your request,"

"Excellent, Tora. I knew you three would succeed, but nevertheless I am impressed,"

Yusuke's vision had gone slightly fuzzy from the torture, but he recognised them instantly, and his eyes flashed with anger. "You bastards! Where's Kura?! Where is she?!"

Everyone turned to him with disdain. "Oh, right. The brother," Kyap sighed. "She's here, kid. Keep your shirt on, we didn't hurt her. Much,"

Yusuke's eyes regained focus and he got a good look. The tokage were even more repulsive in person. Their smug faces alone were enough to make him sick, but it was finally seeing the limp form of his sister carelessly slung over Tora's shoulder like a rag doll that made a snarl rip through his teeth.

"Put her down right now!" he yelled. "Get your grubby meathooks off her!"

Tora smirked and dumped Sakura on the ground. Yusuke noticed she wasn't moving, and her entire left arm had turned red with blood.

"Oh my God, Kura! Can you hear me? Wake up, please wake up! What did you do to her?!" Yusuke demanded.

"We did what we had to do. She gave us some trouble, but it didn't take much to bring her down," Natchi sniggered.

Yusuke made a furious move to get to the tokage, but the Suzaku clones held him back.

Kyap ground his teeth. "Some trouble?! Little tramp just about gave me a headache from her smart mouth. Delivery boys, she called us. The nerve!"

In spite of his panic, Yusuke managed to laugh. "Kura tells it like she sees it, delivery boys!"

"Silence!" Suzaku raised a hand. He swept his eyes over Sakura's body. "She seems to have some rather severe injuries. Tora, are you certain these wounds were essential in acquiring her? I'd hate to deny you the grand reward for bringing me such a prize,"

Kyap and Natchi began to protest, but Tora gave them a look and they fell silent.

Tora bowed again. "Of course, Master. I ensured it did not go too far. The girl will be fine,"

"Very well," Suzaku nodded.

"Fine?!" Yusuke shouted. "Why isn't she moving? KURA!"

At that moment, Sakura's eyes fluttered slightly, and she began feebly stirring. "...Yusuke?"

"Kura, I'm here!" Yusuke's voice was weak with relief.

"Quiet!" Suzaku ordered. "The lovely Sakura. How are you feeling?"

Sakura moaned softly. She shut her eyes. "Oh God, my head," It was pounding like there was a wrestling match going on inside. Her arm felt like it was on fire. Her ribs ached where Kyap had kicked her, and she could feel scratches and bruises all over her face.

Kura, I'm right here, are you ok?! Yusuke was almost beside himself.

Sakura turned slightly to him. Her eyes widened. Yusuke? Oh thank God. Listen, I know this looks bad, but I-

Their conversation was interrupted by Tora once again pulling Sakura up by her hair. "You look at the Master when speaking to him!" he barked.

"Calm yourself, Tora. It's quite alright. Sakura, I am Suzaku, leader of the Saint Beasts. How nice to finally meet you in person,"

Sakura looked into the face of the final Saint Beast. "Can't say the feeling's mutual,"

Suzaku chuckled and took her face in his hand. "I do apologise for resorting to such measures, Sakura. But your abilities were far too tempting to pass up,"

Sakura pulled away from him. "Don't touch me,"

Suzaku smiled faintly. "I can see what you mean, Kyap. But that razor sharp tongue will be tamed in time, I assure you,"

Kura! Yusuke hadn't calmed down. I don't know where the rest of the guys are, but they're coming. Just hold on!

Sakura kept her gaze on Suzaku. Yusuke, please calm down. I have a plan. You said you trusted me, right?

Yusuke swallowed. Yes, but…

Then shut up and do it!

Sakura lowered her eyes. "I'm sorry, Suzaku," she said in a small voice. "I didn't mean to snap. It's just that these cuffs on my hands are hurting me and I can't think clearly. Tora made them too tight,"

"Did he now?" Suzaku raised an eyebrow questioningly.

Tora spluttered. "I had no choice, Master! Her spirit energy…she sent several attacks!"

"Well when you caught me, I'd used all my spirit energy up. I was going to tell you. Maybe you should have let me finish my sentence instead of getting so rough with me," Sakura shook her head slightly and sighed.

Natchi nearly lost it. "Don't lie, brat! You shot at us more times than I care to remember!"

"Remove the chains," Suzaku waved his hand lazily. "Untie her legs as well. She can't run away,"

Tora's eyes bulged. "But sir!"

Suzaku began charging up his energy beam and pointed it at Yusuke. "Do as I say. Sakura won't misbehave, will you my dear? Not as long as you value your twin's life,"

Reluctantly, Tora pulled out the key and nodded to Natchi. "Do it,"

Natchi bared his fangs and grudgingly removed the ropes from Sakura's legs.

Tora approached her slowly. "Don't try anything," he cautioned Sakura. He unlocked the manacles, but left her hands tied. The chains clattered to the floor.

"Good girl," Suzaku simpered. He glanced from Yusuke to Sakura. "Now, why don't you sit back and watch while I kill your twin brother?"

Sakura gasped in horror. "No, please don't!"

Kyap and Natchi held Sakura back. Murugu hovered in front of the distraught girl. "You'll be working for us now, Sakura. We have to get rid of your attachments," she trilled.

Yusuke, these will protect you!

Suzaku's lightning shot from his hands towards Yusuke, but it never reached him. Even with her hands tied, even with her ripped arm, Sakura managed to pick up the chains from the floor and with all her might flung them into the path of Suzaku's attack. The lightning bounced off the metal and rocketed straight into Suzaku's face. He stumbled backwards, clutching his head.

Yusuke's jaw dropped. "What the hell?"

Sakura was breathing heavily from adrenaline. "Obviously I knew those cuffs were designed to repel spirit attacks. And back at the school I heard these geniuses saying the chains could withstand Suzaku's power, so it was all I could think of,"

"You little bitch!" Kyap yanked Sakura to her feet.

But Sakura was smiling. "You're the one who made me realise. Maybe you should take your own advice and learn to shut up!" she hissed, and spat in Kyap's face. Incensed, Kyap swung a clawed hand back and slapped Sakura so hard she fell backwards.

"No, stop!" Yusuke yelled.

Suzaku was advancing on Sakura with a look of rage. He wrapped a hand around her throat and pulled her up to eye level.

"Let her go, you asshole!" Yusuke roared, still being restrained by the other Suzakus.

Suzaku ignored him. He glared at Sakura. "That was an underhanded tactic you used, girl! I can see you will require much correction!"

"You don't scare me, Suzaku. And you won't win," Sakura hurled the words at Suzaku with all the venom she could muster. "Our friends will be here any second, and then you'll regret the day you were born!"

Suzaku's fingers tightened. "I'd kill you now if I didn't need you!" he hissed. "But rest assured you will be punished for this insubordination!"

Furious, he threw her to the floor and turned to the tokage. "Take her downstairs to my quarters and lock her up. I still have to finish off the boy,"

"Yes, sir!" The tokage spoke as one. Tora snapped the chains back on Sakura's hands and all three started hauling her towards the door.

"Kura! No, don't take her! Let her go!"

"Yusuke! Let go of me! YUSUKE!"

The mercenaries dragged Sakura out, both twins yelling desperately for each other.

"Yusuke!" Sakura shrieked. "You can still win this!"

Kyap dug his claws into the slash on Sakura's arm, causing her to cry out in pain. "Don't give the boy false hope, you little tramp. You'll never see him again," he snarled in her ear

"You'll be sorry," Sakura managed to say through her agony. The three lizards laughed and continued to manhandle Sakura down the stairs.

"You might as well accept it, brat," Natchi giggled. "You'll be working for Suzaku now. There's no escape from where you're going. Now unless you want us to knock you out again, shut up!"

Sakura clenched her teeth. This was not how she'd expected things to go. She didn't have much spirit energy left, and the chains meant it was out of the question either way. Her arm was useless, and her head was swimming. She was also a petite fourteen year old human girl. She had zero chance of getting away from the tokage of her own volition. They were just too strong. She was going to have to adapt her plan, and help Yusuke from afar.

Suzaku approached Yusuke. "It's over, boy. Keiko will die, and Sakura is mine. You die alone, and you die now!" Suzaku prepared his attack.

Yusuke gritted his teeth. His anger was unbearable. No matter what, Suzaku was going to pay for everything he'd done.

Yusuke!

Kura? Yusuke felt something brush against him that seemed warm and familiar. His whole body tingled and he sensed his spirit power rising.

Don't worry about me. You've got to save Keiko! That's why I'm here, I let them catch me. You can yell at me later, but I'm sending you the last of my Spirit Energy. I just hope it will be enough. You have to stop him!

Yusuke dipped his head slightly. So it was true. She'd let herself be caught, though he'd have to wait to find out why. And that's what the sensation had been. Sakura's energy had entered his heart and given him strength.

I got this, Squirt. Just hang on. I'll come get you when I beat this guy!

He reached deep inside himself. Enough was enough. "This is for my friends, you jerk!"

Yusuke's hands lit up with spirit energy. In a massive burst, Yusuke's power exploded. All seven Suzakus were blasted backwards.

When the light faded, the real Suzaku was the only one left standing. "Did I miss something, or did you just get five times more powerful?"

Yusuke was on his feet. He had a look on his face that screamed revenge. "You're dead,"

Murugu was still flapping her wings. "I'm so exhausted from looking at this dirty human," she whined. "Can't you finish him, Suzaku?"

"Of course," Suzaku said darkly. All seven Suzakus jumped into the air and readied their blasts.

"I'm sure you recognise this by now," the seven chorused.

But something was wrong. "This can't be!" Suzaku gasped. "I've used too much energy on him. I can't form the attack!"

Yusuke pulled his fist back. "Well, isn't that a heartbreaker? I've got enough energy to serve seven! SHOTGUN!"

Seven rays of spirit energy flowed from Yusuke's hands and each pierced a different Suzaku in the chest. All of them fell, and the real Suzaku dropped the Makai whistle.

Yusuke's eyes wavered in and out of focus and he collapsed. He didn't have anything left. He glanced at the mirror. Keiko and Botan were still running from the Makai, and Sakura was still in the clutches of the tokage.

"Destroying that whistle is her only chance," he muttered, and began heaving himself across the tower floor to the abandoned whistle.

Murugu fluttered down in front of it. "I'll never let you reach it!" she declared.

"Really?" Yusuke chuckled. "Well I was thinking a hot meal is just what I need," he aimed his hand. "I bet you'd taste exactly like roasted chicken!"

Murugu squealed. "You're...just trying to scare me," she squeaked. "I don't think you have any energy left!"

"Yeah, not enough to take down another Saint Beast," Yusuke admitted. "But I've got enough to deep fry a smartass bird. But hey, if being lunchmeat is something you've always been curious about, then go ahead. Touch that whistle again,"

Murugu cried out and flew away. Yusuke smirked.

"You're safe now, Keiko," he murmured, reaching for the whistle. As soon as Keiko was out of danger, he and the others would make a beeline for Sakura, and those mercenaries would pay.

A foot stomped down on his hand, hard. "Thanks for stalling him, Murugu," Suzaku's breathing was laboured and there was blood coming out of his mouth. "Of course, his efforts to scare you away were all lies. If he could still use his Spirit Gun then he would've already destroyed the whistle,"

"Oh...of course," Murugu said sheepishly.

Suzaku glared at Yusuke. "Your final attack…its power was very impressive, but I'm afraid it will not accomplish what you wished. It wasn't strong enough to kill me. And that will prove fatal for you,"

He kicked Yusuke away, but clutched at his own chest. "All your precious energy, wasted on me,"

"Give me a break," Yusuke sighed, getting up slowly. "Go look in a mirror. You're just as injured as I am,"

Suzaku laughed. "You still don't understand the depths of my power, do you?" He raised his hand, which had illuminated. The six fallen Suzakus disappeared into what looked like wisps of smoke.

"Hey, that's their spirit energy!" Yusuke gasped. "He's using them to heal himself!"

Suzaku's battered and injured body became whole. "Let me ask you something of a philosophical question. If you take the lives of your other selves in order to save yourself, is is murder?" he mused.

"Freak," Yusuke spat. After all that damage, he's back to normal?!

"Now now, don't get emotional. I'll bring them back if they mean so much,"

Once again, one Suzaku became seven. They spoke simultaneously. "Black Secret Technique: The Prism of Seven Restoration! The only way to defeat me is to kill all seven at the same time and you're too weak for that,"

Lightning consumed the sky above and came to the hands of all seven Suzakus. Yusuke braced himself.

"I know precisely what my problem has been with you…"

"...I've been treating you like a normal human when obviously you are not…"

"I'm not sure what you are…"

"...but this time I'll fire enough spirit energy to send King Enma to his grave!"

"Prism Storm of Torment!"

Hiei, Kurama and Kuwabara had hacked their way through the final wave of Cultivated Humans. The three of them were running up the spiral staircase to the watchtower when lightning rocked the entire building.

"The biggest lightning eruption by far," Kurama sounded worried. "Suzaku is getting desperate,"

"The attack will almost surely kill one of them," Hiei said.

"Don't say that!" Kuwabara cried, but he suddenly froze. "Wait…I don't know exactly, but something's wrong,"

Hiei snapped his head towards Kurama. The surge in spirit energy was indisputable. "Tell me, do you sense them?"

Kurama nodded briefly. "Tokage," he muttered.

Kuwabara looked blank. "Huh? Tokage? What's that mean?"

In the distance, they heard a commotion. "Shut it, you brat! Stop screaming!"

Kuwabara looked up. His eyes widened. Above them, he caught sight of the lizard demons, and saw who they were struggling with. "Kura?! Oh my God, what are those things!?"

Hiei had a small smile on his face. "Tokage mercenaries from the demon realm. Well, who could have possibly predicted this? She gets herself caught. Again,"

"Quiet, Hiei!" The cold fury in Kurama's voice was terrifying. "Sakura!"

The scuffle ceased. Sakura's heart leapt. She knew that voice. The tokage glanced down at them.

"What? Who are they?" Natchi sneered.

Tora shook his head derisively. "Isn't it obvious? These are the other guests the Master was talking about. We have no time for them. Come on,"

Kuwabara's temper flared. They were too far away to reach Sakura quickly and he knew it. "Hey! What are you jerks doing to Sakura? Leave her alone, let go of her!" he waved his sword angrily.

Kyap laughed. "No, I don't think we'll do that. This girl is far too valuable to Master Suzaku,"

"Leave me!" Sakura yelled to them. "Go help Yusuke!"

"Will you just shut up!" Natchi growled, pressing his clawed hand over her mouth. "Come any closer and she'll pay the price," he warned them.

Kurama's face darkened. "You will regret this,"

"Ooh, aren't you scary?" Natchi smirked.

Hiei shook his head in annoyance. "I can't believe I'm saying this. Let the girl go now, and we may spare you,"

"And risk Suzaku's wrath? I don't think so," Tora laughed. "We're going to walk away nice and slow, and in case you were thinking about following us…"

The castle began to tremble. Kuwabara jumped back as the staircase in front of them crumbled, followed by the stairs they'd already climbed. When the shaking ceased, Hiei, Kurama and Kuwabara looked up but the tokage had vanished along with Sakura.

Kuwabara balled up his fists. "Kura! Damn it, they're gone! Where did they take her?!" He looked back at the two demons. "Now what do we do?"

"You heard the girl. We go after the detective. At least she has some sense," Hiei said roughly.

He carefully aimed and threw his katana across the gap where the staircase had crumbled. It sank into the rock. The rose whip looped around it.

Kurama turned back to the others. "Needless to say, hold on tight!"

Sakura was struggling to stay calm as she was half carried, half dragged down the long dark hallway. Yusuke. Was he OK? Had her spirit energy been enough to buy him some time? Would the others be able to reach him? She had no idea. Her injuries meant she was too weak to even see what was happening to her brother through tsunagu.

Tora opened the locked door to Suzaku's chambers. The room was dark and forbidding, with only a four-poster bed in the centre.

"Get in there!" Kyap hurled Sakura inside. She landed painfully on the stone floor and she tasted blood. Her eyes filled with tears.

"Now what?" Natchi grumbled. "Do we just leave her here?"

Tora shook his head. "No, we must ensure she doesn't escape. Secure her,"

Sakura coughed slightly. "Do I honestly look like I could even try to escape? For God's sake, use your eyes!"

Kyap slapped her yet again. "You won't fool us like you did Suzaku," he hissed, and tossed Sakura onto the bed. Natchi clambered up beside him.

With a flick of his claw, Kyap cut the rope binding Sakura's wrists then split the chain holding the manacles together. Each of them grabbed one of Sakura's arms and tied them to the bedposts.

Sakura suddenly felt a stab of fear. They were both looking at her strangely.

Kyap's face broke into a hideous grin. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking?"

Sakura, where are you?

Kuwabara looked around wildly. "How can they just vanish into thin air like that? I don't care what Kura says. I'm not leaving her alone with those freaks!"

Kurama stood quietly for a moment, his eyes sweeping the area. They had arrived where the tokage had vanished, and with his demon senses Kurama could see where they must have taken Sakura. Concealed in the stone wall was a doorway to a secret passage.

Hiei turned to race up the final steps to the watchtower. "The tokage said she was valuable to Suzaku. Seiryu said the same thing, if you'll recall. Therefore they will not kill her. The quicker we assist the detective, the quicker you can help the girl. Kurama, come. There is no time to lose,"

"I know where she is. Go to Yusuke. I will retrieve Sakura," Kurama leapt through the opening before anyone could protest.

Kurama?! I'm in Suzaku's quarters. I can't move. Help me!

Yusuke was being pushed back by the force of Suzaku's growing attack. All seven clones pulled back their lightning arrows and fired them at Yusuke. He cried out as several grazed him, but he remained standing.

"The lightning energy has missed its target?" Suzaku snarled. "I don't see how that can…" A look of comprehension dawned on his face. One of the red tentacles over Suzaku's forehead had split open and was crackling with useless spirit energy.

"Of course, my tentacle," he growled. "That sister of yours damaged it when she used the chains to block my lightning. These tentacles are the guiding light for my attacks. They've been dipped in thick armour, and still…"

"You made a mistake by going after my sister," Yusuke chuckled weakly. "And I'm really tired of being electrocuted!"

Suzaku was shaking with anger. "You are not human, Yusuke. But I will kill you, even if it takes me a thousand tries!"

The seven Suzakus summoned the lightning again. "My poor tentacle won't allow me a direct hit, so I will just have to tear at you piece by piece,"

Where's Kura when you need her? Damn it Yusuke, think of something. You can't take another hit!

"YUSUKE!"

Keiko's shrill cry of terror pierced the room. Yusuke looked up at the mirror. Keiko was surrounded on all sides by the Makai humans, and she was cradling Botan who seemed to be unconscious.

Yusuke's pupils turned white. Something inside him snapped.

"That's it!"

Natchi grinned back at Kyap. Sakura whimpered. She was growing more frightened by the second.

"Listen to that whining. And you were acting so brave before," Natchi drew a claw down Sakura's t-shirt, ripping the fabric. "Are you scared now, you little brat?"

He leaned closer, moving his claws towards her jeans and whispering terrifying things in her ear.

"No, stop…" Sakura began, but the door was kicked off its hinges. The tokage demons jumped up and faced the intruder.

"What the...you!?" Natchi snarled. "I don't believe it!"

"Greetings, gentlemen," Kurama said quietly, rose whip in hand. "I will give you exactly one chance to release the girl and walk away from this,"

Tora laughed. "And what if we don't feel like it?"

Kurama eyed Tora without fear. "Then you die. So what will it be?"

The three lizards roared with laughter. "Is that right?" Tora shook his head in amusement. "I'd like to see you try!"

"Very well," Kurama's voice was cold as ice, sharp as razors.

Natchi moved back to Sakura and placed a hand around her neck. "Are you sure you want to risk her safety?"

"Get off me!" Sakura recoiled.

Kurama noticed Sakura's torn shirt and his bone-chilling rage seemed to freeze the room. "That's it. No more chances,"

"Your arrogance is astounding," Kyap stepped towards Kurama. "What chance do you think you have? Do you have any idea who we are? We are tokage mercenaries, descended from an ancient race of proud demons. We are ruthless and fear nothing. We are-"

It happened so fast, Sakura almost missed it. In one fluid move, the rose whip sliced through the air. Natchi's blood splattered on her face. All three heads of the tokage rolled off, followed by their lifeless bodies. The key to the chains fell out of Tora's vest. Kurama climbed onto the bed and within seconds Sakura was free.

"They will never touch you again," The demon stroked her bruised face gently, wiping it clear of Natchi's blood. There was no point asking if she was alright. The sheer number of injuries on Sakura's face alone was infuriating to him.

Sakura's brown eyes were wide with terror. Kurama could tell the girl was in shock, but any second now, she would remember her brother.

"K-Kurama? What did you…? I…this wasn't part of the plan…"

"Shh, everything is alright," Kurama looked anxiously at the terrible gash on Sakura's left arm. It had initially been shallow in Byakko's lair, but now the laceration had ripped right down to the bone.

Anger at the beasts responsible flared inside his heart. He swiftly tore a new bandage from the bedsheets and carefully wrapped it around Sakura's arm. Her other wounds would have to wait.

Sakura gasped. "Yusuke!"

Kurama helped her off the bed. "Sakura, did they-"

Sakura's face was wild with emotion. "We can worry about that later. Yusuke needs us!"

Yusuke growled with almost primal rage. His whole body was shrouded in white spirit energy instead of his usual blue.

"What's this?" Suzaku's voice shook. "Where is his energy coming from?" There was only one explanation. "His life. He's using life energy from his body," Suzaku glared at the mirror in disbelief. "He's actually willing to sacrifice his life for her?! What will he profit from that?"

With a yell, Yusuke charged forward, ready to strike.

"Such power!" Suzaku gasped. "Prism Storm of Torment!" The arrows bounced uselessly off the energy shield around Yusuke's body.

"SHOTGUN!" he roared, and seven spirit bullets flew towards the final Saint Beast just as Hiei and Kuwabara ran into the room.

"Urameshi!" Kuwabara looked over in awe.

Yusuke and Suzaku collided and a blinding white light flooded the tower. The seven Suzakus crumbled. Murugu disintegrated, calling Suzaku's name. The Makai whistle smashed to pieces. Yusuke felt his body fading, floating away.

For you, Keiko. And you, Kura. I'm sorry I couldn't be there too.

Keiko gingerly opened her eyes at the sound of dull thudding. Around her, the Makai had fallen and they appeared to be back to normal.

Botan was still unconscious from that blow to the head, but tears of relief flooded down Keiko's cheeks.

She no longer had to run, but Sakura and Yusuke definitely had a lot of explaining to do.

"I was wrong about you once again, Yusuke," Suzaku gasped out. "It wasn't because you weren't human that I lost. I lost because you were. Feelings are your power. Touché, human. At last I understand,"

As soon as the words left his mouth, Suzaku breathed his last.

"Yusuke!?" Sakura had finally made it, supported by Kurama. She took one look at the destruction, the fallen fighters and screamed in horror. "YUSUKE!"

Sakura broke free from Kurama and collapsed at her twin's side. He wasn't breathing. "Yusuke, I'm here. I'm ok. Wake up, please!"

"Wake up, Urameshi!" Kuwabara begged. "Let's go home!"

Kurama crouched beside them. "I'm sorry, he expended all of his body energy. His heart is stopping,"

Sakura's jaw dropped in horror. "No, no that can't be! Yusuke, hold on, I'll give you some of mine!"

"That wouldn't be wise," Kurama cautioned. "Your body is badly injured. Any more strain on it could kill you,"

Kuwabara looked defiant. "Then I'll help. Me and Urameshi jumped into the deal together. And we're both gonna come out alive or we're not coming out at all. Come on, Kura!"

Hiei and Kurama knew there was no dissuading either of them, so they watched while life energy flowed back into Yusuke's body, restarting his heart. A few seconds later, he took a breath.

"He's alive," Sakura wept. "Oh thank God…"

Kurama placed a hand on her shoulder. "Sakura, that's enough. You're on the verge of collapsing,"

Sakura fell back into Kurama's chest, completely exhausted. He gently combed through her hair with his fingertips.

"It's alright now, Sakura. Everything will be fine,"

Kuwabara looked up tearfully, taking in how badly wounded Sakura was. "Kura, what happened? I thought you went to save Keiko. How did you get back here with those lizard things?"

Hiei rolled his eyes. "Isn't it obvious? Suzaku sent the tokage after Sakura, likely because he wanted her tsunagu training. I'll bet you weren't able to defend yourself with that injury, right? You learned nothing from me. How pathetic,"

"Hiei!" Kurama warned.

"No," Sakura was sobbing too hard to speak properly. "I…let them, short stack,"

Surprise flashed across Hiei's face. "You let them capture you? Even by human standards, that's absurd. Why on earth would you do something so foolish?"

"I…had to…help…Yusuke," Sakura said through her tears.

"Enough talk," Kurama said firmly. "You can explain it later after you've recovered. Come now,"

"I've got Urameshi," Kuwabara hoisted Yusuke onto his back and glared at Hiei. "Leave Kura alone,"

With a gentle smile, Kurama lifted Sakura into his arms. His touch was so soft, so comforting. She felt safe in his embrace. Safer than she'd ever felt in her life.

It was over. It was really over. The four Saint Beasts were gone. Keiko was alive, and the tokage could never hurt anyone again. But the pain of her injuries combined with the emotion of what she'd just been through overwhelmed Sakura, and she lost consciousness.

Kurama smiled at Hiei. "Look, we're returning to Living World carrying both twins,"

"Like I said. Babysitting," Hiei said irritably. "Here's what I don't understand. Why would he bother saving Keiko if he died in the process?"

"Trust me, Hiei. There are reasons,"

"Maybe for a person who's lived there," Hiei snorted. "But I'd never do it. The challenge is enough without taking someone else's slack,"

"Don't you ever shut up, Hamster Legs?" Kuwabara grumbled.

Hiei scowled, but his face softened slightly when he examined Sakura's battered face. "How severe are the girl's injuries?"

Kurama frowned. He shifted Sakura so her cheek rested against his shoulder. "Some blood loss, a concussion, abrasions and bruising all over her face, a cracked rib and her left arm has been torn open to the bone. Serious, but not life-threatening,"

"Holy hell...but Botan can fix her up," Kuwabara suggested helpfully.

"Her wounds are beyond Botan's skill to heal," Kurama said seriously. "Master Genkai is who she needs. I'll take her there myself,"

"Probably for the best," Kuwabara admitted. "If Urameshi's mother saw Kura looking like that she'd have a heart attack,"

Kurama looked at the petite young girl in his arms. So small, so vulnerable, yet she had acted with immense courage and skill. He was secretly relieved Yusuke was not conscious to see him carrying Sakura like this. The argument would have been tiresome.

"Rest now, Sakura," Kurama murmured, and hidden by his long hair, brushed his lips against her forehead.

Yusuke stirred as the warm sunlight hit his face. He cracked his eyes open and realised he was lying in a bed. Kuwabara and Kurama were beside him.

Kuwabara leaned back in his chair. "Well, about time you woke up,"

"Where…am I?" Yusuke's voice was hoarse.

"You're in my room," Kuwabara grinned. "Which, by the way, is back on earth,"

Kurama smiled. "You've been sleeping for three days straight,"

Yusuke stretched slightly and sat up. "Three days? Feels like I've been out for a while,"

"School looks like a war zone and classes got cancelled for a week," Kuwabara explained. "I talked to your Mom too, so don't worry about that,"

Yusuke gave them a hard look. "Where's Kura? And Keiko?"

Kuwabara and Kurama paused and looked away.

"What about Keiko and Botan? And Sakura?"

Kurama couldn't meet Yusuke's eyes. Kuwabara bit his lip.

"What?" Yusuke's voice was rising. "What?! Hey!"

He jumped out of bed and grabbed Kuwabara by the collar. "You better start doing something more than clenching your teeth! Tell me what happened to them!"

The door opened. "I'd recognise that yell anywhere. What's up, Yusuke?"

Botan and Keiko had entered the room. Yusuke's eyes bugged out.

"Botan…Keiko…"

Kuwabara was starting to giggle. "Oh my gosh, that was so great," he chortled.

"Sorry, Yusuke," Kurama shook his head. "He insisted,"

Kuwabara had tears of laughter in his eyes. "Ha! You really should have seen the look on your face!"

"Come here, you jerk. I'll show you a look!" Yusuke planted his fist in Kuwabara's laughing face.

"I told you it wasn't a good idea,"

Yusuke looked up quickly. His sister was standing before him, with no trace of the injuries she'd sustained at Maze Castle.

Yusuke's face lit up. "Kura? You're here!"

She smiled back. "Sorry about those idiots, I told them not to do it,"

"I'd say he deserves a good scare," Keiko said airily. "Yusuke, let's walk. We need to have a conversation,"

Yusuke opened his mouth to protest, but under Sakura's stern glare he folded. "Sure, I'll be right there," he mumbled sheepishly.

"Good," Keiko smiled. "Kura, why don't you come along too?"

"Sure," Sakura agreed.

Across the room, Kurama's emerald eyes fixed their gaze on Sakura. I'm glad to see you're awake, Sakura. We haven't had the chance to talk yet, have we? Go with Yusuke and Keiko. Meet me by the lake this evening.

Sakura's stomach twisted. I'll be there.

Keiko walked slightly ahead of the twins, allowing them to converse privately.

I'm so glad you're ok, Squirt. But you have some explaining to do!

Later, Yusuke. Sakura promised. I'll tell you anything you want to know and you can yell at me for being reckless all you want afterwards, but Keiko is who needs you right now.

Oh man, I really screwed up big this time. Yusuke groaned internally. Bet she's still mad at me for ditching out at the movies. Not to mention pulling a Houdini for a week and not telling her anything. Like…well, about the zombies that might be coming after her and…guess I should tell her something.

He sighed. Usually I just let her hit me a few times and then try to explain myself.

I've been out for a few days too. Sakura admitted. I don't know how much Botan told her, but I'd advise you to brace yourself.

"Hey, uh…Keiko?" Yusuke called.

Keiko stopped walking and turned back to face the twins. Yusuke went over to her.

"Everything's my fault, and I'm a jerk, so just hit me ok?" he said very fast.

Sakura shut her eyes. Real smooth, brother.

What else am I meant to say you damn brat?

Keiko blinked and took a step towards Yusuke. She swung her hand in the air, ready to strike. But instead of slapping him, she held up a finger.

"I'll forgive you on one condition," she said solemnly. "I got Botan to fill me in on everything up to this point, but the next time you go off on one of these cases you have to promise to tell me about it! You hear me? That's all I'm asking for," she lowered her hand. "You've made me feel like a fool, the way everyone else around you is in on your little secret life except for me. It's like I don't count,"

Yusuke looked down, and Sakura was pleased to see he had an expression of shame.

"I didn't tell my Mom!" he said weakly. Sakura slapped a hand to her face.

Keiko sighed. "Yusuke, you don't tell your Mom anything,"

"Well I didn't tell you because I was just trying to protect you, ok?"

Dig UP, stupid!

Shut it, you damn brat! You're not helping!

"Yes," Keiko sniffed. "We can all see how well that turned out,"

Yusuke rubbed his eyes. "You're right. And if I'd known you'd get attacked by guys controlled by insects, I'm sure I would have mentioned it,"

"Yusuke, you still haven't promised me yet,"

Sakura realised the sun was setting. She had to go back and meet with Kurama by the lake. Without Yusuke. She had to thank him.

"I'll leave you guys to it. I should get home!" she called.

Keiko turned around. "Wait, Kura," she hurried over to her friend and threw her arms around her neck. "I haven't thanked you yet. For saving my life in the school,"

Sakura hugged her back. "It was all for you, Keiko. I love you so much,"

"I love you too, Kura. But there's one thing I don't understand. Those mercenaries. Why would you willingly let them attack you?"

"I…I had to get them away from you or you'd be in even more danger from the infected. I knew they wouldn't kill me or anything, so it seemed like the best way to buy you some time,"

Keiko shuddered. "I didn't get a good look at them but they looked terrifying in the shadows. Are you sure you're ok?"

Sakura painted a smile on her face. "Not really, but I will be in time,"

She looked at Yusuke. You guys keep at it. We can talk tonight

You best believe we will, Squirt. You're in trouble.

The sun was just peeking over the horizon when Sakura arrived at the lake near her apartment. She hadn't been here since the day after Hiei had taken her. Her whole body was tingling. Kurama was coming. She wanted to see him, but at the same time she was almost afraid to.

These feelings inside her were so unnerving. How could she possibly thank him adequately for saving her from the tokage? When he'd arrived, she'd been in a state of complete shock and had barely been able to string a sentence together. Granted, it was hard to string a sentence together in his presence anyway. Kurama made her feel things she'd never felt before. Why, she didn't know, but he also made her… happy.

"Sakura?" He'd arrived without a sound. "You came,"

Sakura shut her eyes and smiled before turning around. She liked the way her name rolled off his tongue. "Of course I did," she said shyly.

Kurama approached her. "How are you feeling?"

Sakura shrugged. "I don't know. Ok, I guess. I don't remember anything after I passed out. Who healed me? Botan?"

He shook his head. "No, I took you to Master Genkai,"

Sakura felt her face burn. "Oh God…I bet she had plenty to say,"

"Actually, she was most impressed with your bravery," Kurama chuckled. "But she made sure you'd sleep for a few days so your body could recuperate,"

Sakura laughed ruefully. "Brave? Not a chance. You were the one who rescued me,"

"I have been meaning to ask," Kurama sounded hesitant. "When I arrived, it seemed like…what I'm trying to say is, did they…?"

"No," Sakura bit her lip and turned away. She could feel tears welling up in her eyes. "No, but they… they tried. Kurama, I-I don't know how to thank you. If you hadn't shown up when you did…"

His hand cupped her face. "I will never allow you to be hurt again. I promise,"

Hardly realising what she was doing, Sakura threw her arms around him. "That wasn't part of the plan! I swear, I didn't think it'd end up that way!"

Kurama gently moved her to face him. He couldn't bear to see her beautiful eyes so sad. "You really don't seem to realise how extraordinary you are, Sakura," he said wistfully, stroking her hair. "Truly, you fascinate me,"

"I like you too," Sakura burst out, then slapped her hands over her mouth. "I mean…I-I want to see you again,"

Kurama's smile made her legs weak. "I want that too, very much. Though somehow I doubt Yusuke would approve,"

Sakura's eyes ignited. "It's none of his business!"

"The hell it isn't!" Yusuke stepped out of the bushes and folded his arms. "Care to explain what's going on here?"

All Sakura's words seemed to stick in her throat. "What…what on God's green earth do you think you're doing?!" she spluttered.

Yusuke glowered. "I could ask you the same thing. What did I say about going off on your own, Squirt?"

"I'm not alone!" Sakura said hotly. Part of her knew she was overreacting, but it was overshadowed by her anger and embarrassment. "Ugh, for heaven's sake, Yusuke! You're unbelievable!"

"Sakura," Yusuke's voice shook. "After what just happened to you with those lizard freaks, I swear I'm never letting you out of my sight again,"

Sakura made a furious move to her twin. "That's completely different! I'm here with Kurama, and for your information, he's the reason I got away from those idiots at all!"

Yusuke's jaw dropped. "Kurama? You rescued her?"

Kurama rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "Well, yes. In a manner of speaking,"

Yusuke took a deep breath. "Kura, go home now. Fox Boy and I need to talk,"

"Fine," Sakura snapped."Thanks again,"

I'm so sorry, Kurama. But please, when will I see you next?

I must return to Koenma shortly, but I shall see you soon. Be safe, Sakura.

Yusuke watched his sister until she reached their building, then looked grimly at Kurama.

"In Maze Castle, Kura told me she let those tokage things take her. What was that all about? Do you know?"

Kurama shook his head. "I feel I should let Sakura explain the reasons behind her plan to you. Besides, she hasn't told me herself yet,"

Yusuke nodded slowly. "Before you guys showed up, those freaks brought Kura to the watchtower. And I remember Suzaku telling them to lock her up somewhere. So…I guess I'm asking what happened. How you got her out. God knows Kura won't tell me all the details,"

Kurama closed his eyes. Yusuke needed to know, but he also knew the boy would be infuriated.

"We were on our way when they appeared on the stairs, far above us. Sakura insisted we go after you, but I couldn't leave her at their mercy even for a brief time. And it's a good thing I didn't, because…" Kurama seemed to have difficulty talking from disgust. "When I found her, those deviants had her in Suzaku's chambers. Had I arrived even a second later…"

Yusuke felt like he'd been punched in the stomach. "No…" he breathed. "Those sick bastards, they didn't…!"

"No, but those monsters paid for what they did do," Kurama's normally gentle eyes were burning. "Believe me, had there been more time I would have gladly extended their suffering,"

Yusuke's eyes welled up and he looked down so Kurama wouldn't see. Kurama put a hand on Yusuke's shoulder.

"She saved your life, Yusuke. Along with Kuwabara. They transferred life energy to you after the battle. Please be tender with Sakura. She needs you as much as you need her,"

"What exactly do you want from my sister, Fox Boy?" Yusuke asked more harshly than he intended.

The demon laughed softly. "Go to her, Yusuke. She needs her brother,"

Yusuke nodded and began to leave, but he paused. "Kurama. Thank you. For saving my sister," Without turning around, Yusuke strode off in the direction of his home.

Sakura curled up into a ball on her bed and hugged her pillow. There was a soft knock at the door.

"Go away," she groaned.

"Hey, Kura," The door opened slightly to reveal Yusuke's sheepish face.

She scowled and threw her pillow at him. "I said go away!"

Instead, he came and sat on her bed. "I'm sorry, I really am. Kurama filled me in on everything and I…" Yusuke buried his head in his hands. "Before I start yelling, tell me why you let the tokage take you,"

Sakura lay on her back and stared at the ceiling. "I didn't know what other option I had. Those mercenaries were willing to do anything to get me, including hurting Keiko. They were going to catch me eventually either way, so I figured I could use that to my advantage and help you,"

"Huh? How?"

"I could feel you were struggling. And I wanted to help. Suzaku wanted my telepathy, so I knew they wouldn't kill me. I had to let them think they'd gotten me by surprise so they'd let their guard down. I thought I could help you fight Suzaku when they brought me back to the tower, but well, you know what happened. So I transferred my spirit energy instead. I've said it all. Go on. Start yelling,"

The last thing Sakura expected Yusuke to do was pull her into a tight hug. He held her for a long time.

"Kura, you're so important to me. You know that. And the thought of you getting hurt is unbearable, but God knows you've seen me in that state and worse, so who am I to talk? I saw what you did at the school. You were amazing, the way you got Keiko out of that room. You saved her. You bought me time, and you saved my life…" he looked at her and both their eyes were full of tears. "Like you said, we're a package deal,"

Crying, Sakura clutched her brother. "It's not like I wasn't scared of them. I was terrified," she admitted. "But after working with Genkai and Master Shin, I know I can't let my fear control me, so that's how I made the decision. Even though you'd be mad,"

Yusuke sighed. "I'm mad that you deliberately put yourself in danger, but if you hadn't, I'd probably be dead now," He ruffled her hair. "I said I'd trust you from now on, so I guess I'll just have to work on it in the field,"

Sakura nodded and wiped her eyes.

"No more tears," Yusuke smiled. "Night, Squirt,"

He turned off her light and shut the door behind him. Sakura climbed under her quilt. She knew her dreams would likely be filled with slashing claws and lizard demons, but was it too much to hope she'd dream of the red-haired demon with emerald green eyes?

She shut her own eyes and was swept into darkness.

A.N. What did you think? What did you like most about this chapter? Did you like the character interactions?

This is likely my last chapter post til after Christmas, so let me wish you all a wonderful holiday even in this crazy world. Please stay safe!

After Yukina's arc, we shall be moving onto the Dark Tournament. My poll is still open, so please vote. And who do you think Sakura should fight?

Please review if you're enjoying the story, it honestly helps me so much. Chapter 24 will be arriving soon

Next chapter: The Saint Beasts have been defeated, but the next case has arrived...