A.N. Well, we've made it to the final chapter of Book 1. I hope you're all ready for Book 2!

Damaged Forest Spirit: I'm sad too. I've had a blast writing it. But don't be too sad. Book 1 will always be here for you to revisit, and there's so much still to come. Hope you've subscribed so you don't miss the new release!

hw0134160: I love how you think of this as 'never-before-seen', because that's exactly what I was going for when I started writing. Yeah, I'm very much looking forward to writing more about Sakura and her dynamic with Kurama and Hiei. That stubborn three eyed demon isn't going to admit his fondness easily.

As much as I love the Cell Games and UA's Sports Festival, the Dark Tournament never gets old. I hope you're ready for Book 2. I have so much planned.

Wolfs child: My poll decided that Sakura will be fighting, but there will always be twists. As for Toguro, for the most part he's more interested in Yusuke, but he's aware that Sakura is strong in her own way, and he's curious about her telepathy. But right now, he only sees her as a way to exert more control over the situation. But it's still early days, and there's a lot more to explore there. Make sure you read my Author's note to find out the release date for Book 2!

Hina714: Here we are, last chapter! Sakura is going to be heavily involved in the Dark Tournament, and not just as a fighter. Her new skills are going to prove quite useful, and her battle outfit will probably turn more than a few heads. Of course Yusuke will freak, it's Yusuke after all. LOL.

Ghosts of Magic: Glad to see I'm not the only one who's hyped. Please share your theories. I'd love to hear them!

bluerose921: Yes, he does. But he's not likely to admit it any time soon!

Please follow, favourite and review. Book 2 announcements below...and a special surprise!

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 28

The forest was alive with movement, except for Sakura who was doing her best not to look. She stood at the edge of the mob with her bag slung across her chest, being borderline guarded by three members of Team Urameshi. The only one missing was Yusuke, who she hadn't seen since he'd left the night before. If the others weren't with her, she doubted she'd have the guts to even be here in the face of these apparitions waiting for the boat.

They were everywhere. Demons of all shapes and sizes standing around a single fire by the dock. Double mouthed, cyclops, dripping fangs, humanesque, horned, menacing, prowlers in the shadows. Every single one of them was chattering excitedly about what lay ahead. Clearly they were hoping for death and mayhem.

"It's about time this tournament day arrived,"

"Now we can kill without having those pursuers after us!"

"And imagine our power once we've gotten that prize!"

"We're the ones who are going to get the power. Go home if you don't want to die!"

"Obviously, you haven't seen us fight yet,"

A blue demon with terrifying fangs glanced in the direction of Kuwabara. "I think I smell a human over there!"

"Maybe he's come here to be our dinner!" another licked his lips at the sight of Sakura. "I call dibs on the human girl for dessert,"

Sakura shuddered. The boys drew slightly closer to her.

Kuwabara scowled. "Urameshi still hasn't shown up yet. What could that dummy be doing now?"

"Don't worry," Sakura said firmly, shifting her bag slightly. "He's coming,"

Kurama didn't take his eyes off the demon who had eyed Sakura. "Hopefully he's finding us a fifth fighter,"

"But we have five fighters with Sakura," Kuwabara blinked.

"I'm the alternate, remember? It was the only way Yusuke was going to let me come at all,"

"Why don't you worry about yourself, Kuwabara?" Hiei said without looking at him. "Have you gotten any better since our last fight?"

Kuwabara glowered. "Ha! You'll see for yourself, Shrimp Boy!" If we win this competition, I'm gonna get super famous. Yeah! That way Yukina and I can be together forever!

With supreme effort, Sakura managed to resist rolling her eyes.

The ship's captain lurched from the darkness. "The ship is 'ere, mateys. Now let's try to get on board without any violence," he croaked.

"Uh, hey wait a minute sir!" Kuwabara stepped forward. "Our team still has some stragglers!"

"Then we'll have to put a mark on their heads and send out a hitman. Standard rule of the tournament," the captain sniffed.

"Now now, that's not necessary," Yusuke emerged from the trees with a smile. "Sorry to keep you waiting guys,"

"You nearly gave me a heart attack, Urameshi!" Kuwabara snapped.

Muttering swept through the demon crowd at this new arrival. He wasn't alone. Another tiny fighter in a mask hovered behind him.

"How nice of you to finally join us," Sakura smiled and shook her head. Yusuke grinned back.

"Yusuke," Hiei's katana was at the ready. Like lightning, he sprang forward.

Yusuke didn't even blink before he began dodging every slash of the sword. Sakura was pleased that her awareness had progressed enough that she could actually keep up.

Dodge, slash, dodge, slash. The combatants flowed around each other like water, moving so fast they became a mere blur to untrained eyes.

The demon onlookers were stunned. "What's this?"

"I thought that they were on the same team?"

Even Kuwabara was gobsmacked. "Gosh, they're fast. I can barely keep up with my eyes,"

"Damn Hiei, is this how you say hello to people now?" Yusuke caught the flat of the blade between his fingers, ending the fight.

Hiei consented to a small smile. "Hmm. I don't know where you've been all this time, but it seems you've improved your skills a little bit,"

Kuwabara's jaw was still hanging to his knees. "Improved a little bit? Oh man, I'd say he improved a lot a bit!"

"Don't be discouraged," Kurama was playing the role of encourager, as usual. "The fact that you could follow their moves shows that you have improved as well,"

Sakura slipped her arm around Yusuke. "Nice moves, bro,"

He tugged the end of her hair. "When did this happen?"

"Last night, compliments of Shizuru. I'm surprised you noticed,"

"Ahem!" Hiei rolled all three eyes. "So, Yusuke. I assume the little one over there is going to be the fifth member of our team?"

Kuwabara approached the Masked Fighter. "Huh? You mean this little guy here? He's even smaller than Hiei! And what's wrong with his face? He looks like a mummy or something,"

"Trust me," Yusuke exchanged a confident look with Sakura. "That one's going to be a lot of help to us,"

Yeah, nice try Yusuke. Sakura teased. I know exactly who's under there.

Just keep it quiet for now. She doesn't want anyone to know yet. Yusuke responded.

"I don't know," Kuwabara was still sizing up the Masked Fighter. "He barely comes to my waist,"

"Forget him," Hiei said dismissively. "Yusuke and I are all that we'll require," He glanced at Sakura. "With any luck, your services will not be required,"

Sakura couldn't suppress her grin. "I bet you'd like that, wouldn't you?"

"Enough of pesky distractions!" The captain waved his hook in the air. "Let's all get on board!"

In Yusuke's room, Botan backed away from the ire radiating from Shizuru and Keiko. "Easy now! No need to get violent!"

Keiko folded her arms. "We know that you know, Botan. Tell us where Sakura and Yusuke are,"

"And my baby brother too," Shizuru added sternly. "He hasn't come home for days,"

Atsuko was draped over the kitchen table after her usual serving of alcohol. She wasn't going to be concerned any time soon.

"And neither of them gave us so much as a phone call. Not even Kura, and that's not like her!"

Botan laughed nervously. "Yes, I understand you're worried, but boys will be boys!"

"Mine won't," Shizuru stuck her face in Botan's. "Now I want you to tell me exactly where the three of them are,"

"Please, for our friendship!" Keiko begged. "Remember what happened last time they vanished somewhere? I don't want Yusuke or Sakura to get hurt!"

Botan honestly didn't know how to respond. "It's just, uh…"

"NOW!" Shizuru pointed her cigarette menacingly.

Koenma's going to kill me, but...so be it!

Botan raised her hands in surrender. "Ok, but promise not to faint. Here goes…"

Stay close.

Yusuke was practically glued to his sister's side on the deck. Team Urameshi chose an area slightly away from the rest of the competitors. Sakura sat down on the ground and pulled out a notebook. She tucked her bag between her legs and began to write.

"Huh?" Yusuke parked himself next to Sakura, staring in disbelief. "You're kidding me, Squirt. You actually brought your homework?!"

Sakura nodded but didn't look up. "I brought yours too, and rest assured you will be completing it," she said calmly.

"This is more important than school, you damn brat!" he snapped.

"Speak for yourself. I have no interest in failing," she said darkly. "Plus it keeps my mind occupied. If I sit idle, I'll just get more nervous,"

Yusuke lowered his voice. "I didn't get a chance to ask. Did that telepath guy teach you anything new? Aside from what you were working on with Genkai?"

"Yeah," Sakura confirmed with a coy smile. "I have a couple new tricks up my sleeve,"

Yusuke ruffled her hair. "Nice! Is your Spirit Blast stronger now like my shotgun?"

"Tell us, Kura!" Kuwabara said enthusiastically. "I mean, it's probably nothing compared to my new sword power, but I still want to hear it!"

Sakura chuckled. "I'm sure your sword is very impressive, but my lips are sealed,"

"Somehow I doubt you'll have to use them, Sakura," Hiei sniffed. He was standing atop the ship railings without a care in the world. "But I sure hope the island isn't as boring as this,"

"We are not on vacation, you know," Kurama scolded gently.

"I know, but there's nothing here but ugly monsters. I thought cruises were supposed to have pretty girls. Couldn't they at least give us a place to eat? With pretty waitresses?" Kuwabara was seemingly oblivious to the glare Sakura sent his way.

"Alrighty, mateys," The captain had reappeared, microphone in hand. "Turn yer eyes to the captain's deck. It's still going to be quite a time before the ship finds a way to the 'arbour. So we'll be 'aving some entertainment to keep yeh from gettin' rowdy,"

"Ooh, I knew it! Some dinner and dancing!" Kuwabara jumped up.

"You're already doing a dance with death," Sakura growled at him.

"The preliminary battles for the tournament will be fought 'ere on me trusty ship!"

"Say what?!" Kuwabara yelped. Mutters of dissent swept through the crowd. Sakura stuffed her notebook back into her bag. Something told her she'd need both hands for this.

Hiei was unsurprised. "A preliminary for the competition,"

"Now that we can't go anywhere…" Kurama didn't sound amused. Just then, the ground began violently quaking.

Kuwabara panicked. "Ah! Earthquake!" he yelped.

"Fool!" Hiei snapped as the shaking ceased. "There can't be earthquakes on the water!"

"Look!" Kurama pointed. Sakura jumped to her feet. The upper deck had split open, and from below rose a giant battle arena.

"Woah, that thing's huge!" Sakura gasped.

"She's a real beauty, ain't she?" The captain said proudly. "Now, I'll tell it to yeh straight. Fifteen teams 'ave already been chosen for the Dark Tournament. They're awaitin' your arrival. That means, out of all of you on my ship only one team will compete on dry land,"

The other demons shouted their disapproval.

Kuwabara looked suspicious. "Hold on, I thought that we were the special guests,"

"This is the way they operate," Hiei shrugged.

"All teams pick out yer strongest man and bring 'im to the arena's portside," The captain continued. "There, they'll fight in a battle royale! And whoever comes out alive gets their team a ticket to fight on Hanging Neck Island!"

"So, one big beatdown, huh? Guess I'll have to show them the brand new Kuwabara Super Attack," Kuwabara slammed his fist into his hand. Sakura drew back next to Kurama as three demons loomed closer.

"Yes, I do prefer larger battles," one of them crooned. "One on one fights always makes me bored,"

"A chance to sharpen my claws," said another

"Now I can kill as many apparitions as I want to," the third demon flicked his tongue at Sakura. "After I turn that human boy Urameshi inside out of course,"

"Just try it," Sakura snarled in spite of herself, lunging forward. "I'll end you,"

The demon laughed and walked away. Kurama pulled her back. "It's alright, Sakura. These demons aren't a grave threat," he muttered.

Suddenly, Kuwabara didn't seem quite so brave. "Uh, what did he say about the human?" he squeaked. "You know, these guys are pretty big when you see them standing right next to you…hey, that's right,"

He turned to Yusuke, who for some reason or other hadn't moved or spoken. "You're the one who wants to fight them. Well I guess as the group leader it is your responsibility,"

Yusuke's head lolled forward, his whole body slouched. He was dead asleep.

"Hey, wake up Urameshi! I said it's the group leader's responsibility!" Kuwabara shook him vigorously. Still no answer. "Why do I feel like I'm screaming at myself?!"

"Because you are, genius," Sakura sighed. "Trust me, he's not waking up anytime soon,"

"Stop," Kurama ordered. "The training Yusuke went through was apparently immense. You must give him time to recuperate,"

"Then who's gonna fight with all the big monsters?" Kuwabara demanded.

Sakura opened her mouth to respond, but the Masked Fighter was already making their way over to the arena.

"It seems we have a volunteer. Good," Hiei smirked. "I'm anxious to see what he can do,"

Kuwabara rounded on him. "Are you serious?! We don't know jack squat about that guy! What if he loses and we get booted from the tournament?"

Sakura bit her tongue. She thought it was obvious who the Masked Fighter was. Was everyone around here an idiot?

"If that happens, all we have to do is kill everyone else on the boat before we reach the island," Hiei said calmly. "We'll say we're the right team and no-one will complain,"

Kuwabara's eyebrow twitched. "You didn't have too many friends growing up, did you?"

Shizuru and Keiko stared blankly following Botan's bizarre yet earnest explanation.

"So they're fighting in something called the Dark Tournament?" Shizuru blinked.

"Sakura too?" Keiko asked faintly. "Against teams of monsters from an entirely different world?"

Botan grimaced. "That's right,"

Keiko nodded weakly "Ok…" she mumbled and dropped to the ground, landing in Botan's arms.

"Oh dear, Keiko!" Botan bit her lip. "That could've gone better,"

"I can't believe they would be so reckless," Shizuru seethed. "Well, maybe the boys, but Sakura struck me as more sensible than that,"

"But they had to!" Botan protested. "Those in charge won't let them refuse. The only way for them to live is to fight,"

Keiko had come around and she gripped Botan's sleeve with a surprising strength. "Now listen. You have to take me there," she said urgently.

"I'm going too," Shizuru announced.

Botan's heart sank. Koenma's going to kill me!

Standing alone against ten fearsome demons, the Masked Fighter was completely dwarfed by the sheer size of them.

"Let's attack the one from the human team first," one demon suggested with a crafty smile. "Then we can start on each other,"

"Good idea," one of the more sinister-looking apparitions agreed.

"Hey, we've got to do something to warn him! They're all going to gang up on him and he's trapped himself in a corner!" Kuwabara squawked. He and Kurama were both perspiring with anxiety. Only Sakura seemed to be relaxed.

"I wouldn't worry if I were you. The Masked Fighter can take care of themselves," Sakura muttered to them. She still couldn't believe nobody else realised who was under the disguise.

Kuwabara looked at Sakura with suspicion. "What makes you so sure?"

Sakura smiled and tapped her head. "I have my ways,"

The ten demons were converging on the Masked Fighter, who didn't seem the least bit concerned. With a laugh from the captain, the battle began. Shouting all manner of threats, the Masked Fighter was swarmed.

Or so it would appear. None of the apparitions got within three feet of the Masked Fighter, because they fired off a spirit energy attack that was strong enough to throw all ten clean off the ship and into the ocean. Then, the Masked Fighter straightened up and calmly walked off the battlefield without a word.

Kuwabara, as expected, was stunned. "Holy crap! He got everyone up there with one blow!"

Kurama chuckled and smiled at Sakura. "You were right. I guess that explains why Yusuke can sleep so peacefully on a boat full of demons,"

Yeah, you were right Kura. Whoever that little guy is, Yusuke must've taught him the shotgun!

Kuwabara may not have figured out who was behind the mask, but Sakura was willing to let that go for the moment. The fighter's attack confirmed her theory. It was, to Sakura, a powered-up version of Yusuke's shotgun. Any lingering doubt she may have had as to the fighter's identity promptly vanished. There was only one person it could be.

Up on the main deck, the captain looked livid. "Grrr…I'm sorry to say that the sixteenth team will have to be a human one!" he growled. "Yusuke Urameshi's team!"

"Well, that's bound to go down well," Sakura got to her feet, fists ready just as the Masked Fighter rejoined them.

"Good job little man!" Kuwabara cheered. "So how about you let us see under those bandages now?"

The Masked Fighter wordlessly pointed behind them and they all turned to see a furious crowd of bloodthirsty demons. The group was completely surrounded.

Sakura backed up with the rest of the boys. Apparently it was time to test her new skills.

"You really think we care about fighting by the rules?" a red demon scoffed. "There's only one way to find the best team on this boat,"

Hiei wasn't amused. "I think they stole my idea. We'll have to make them pay very dearly for that,"

"Of course," Kurama raised his perfect rose.

"Bring it on," Sakura grinned.

Chaos and panic ensued, beginning with a demon jumping on Kuwabara's back. Kurama, Hiei and the Masked Fighter leapt into the air followed by their challengers.

"Kura, behind you!" Kuwabara yelled.

Sakura spun around and fired her double blast at the morons who clearly thought she'd be an easy target.

"Now I'm mad," growled Kuwabara as he threw off his assailant. He looked up in time to see a rabid demon leaping at him from the sky, only to be impaled by the Spirit Sword. "What kind of wimp do you take me for?!"

The Masked Fighter was practically dancing around their opponents, easily evading their attacks before taking them down with a single hit. Hiei's sword sliced through everyone who dared approach, and Kurama's rose whip made short work of the demons who surrounded him.

"Rose whip thorn wheel!" He returned the whip to his hand and the rest of the team looked to Sakura who was handling the last few stragglers.

"Sorry guys, but you're going overboard!" Using spirit power in her legs to even the odds, Sakura kicked three demons off the boat. But one more remained, and he had his ugly claws aimed at the still-sleeping Yusuke.

"Heh! This kill will make me famous!" he giggled.

"Get away from him!" Sakura roared. But before she could reach the demon with her new technique, Yusuke's fists took care of the problem, and the demon slammed into the opposite railing, out cold.

"Come on! You can't scare me, Grandma! I'll knock you back to your grave!" Yusuke's arms were flying so fast they were practically a blur, and even though he was still asleep, he was screaming as if someone was there. "Quit, you stupid old lady!"

Kuwabara blinked. "That's a relief," he said blankly. "He's finally awake,"

"No, fool!" snapped Hiei. "He's sleeping,"

"Even in his slumber, Yusuke is reliving the training," Kurama explained. "His preparations should make us all jealous. Along with Sakura's, I'd wager?"

With a final yell, Yusuke quietly sank down into the exact same position he'd been in before the fight started.

Sakura collapsed next to him. "Thanks for the help, Yusuke,"

Kura. Kuwabara's voice interrupted. Urameshi said 'Grandma' in his sleep right there. That's what he calls Genkai…hey, maybe that little guy is…do you know?

Sakura felt the piercing stare of the Masked Fighter, who shook their head a fraction to each side.

Anything's possible. Sakura replied tiredly.

"They are about the same size, but she wouldn't fight unless she had her own reasons…" Kuwabara muttered under his breath.

"What are you mumbling?" Kurama was making a beeline to Sakura.

Hiei snorted. "He's trying to talk in his sleep when he's awake,"

Kurama knelt next to Sakura. "Excellent work, Sakura. I can see you've been practicing,"

"Yeah," she sighed and leaned back against the railing. "Good thing Yusuke didn't see that though. He would've freaked. God knows what he'll say if I actually have to fight,"

"I'll do my best to ensure that doesn't happen," Kurama said reassuringly. But the quiver in Sakura's stomach knew the odds of her staying out of the tournament ring were extremely low at best. She stood up and stared out into the night.

"I know," she said finally.

Oi, girl! You 'ear me?!

Sakura jumped. Who is this?

The captain, sweetheart. Old Sakyo tells me you're a telepath, so I thought I'd try me luck. Seems it paid off. Can't say I'm too 'appy with what you lot did on me ship. The captain growled.

I don't recall giving permission for this. Sakura hoped the venom in her words would be translated loud and clear.

I don't care if you did or not, missy! You scurvy-ridden pests were far too strong for these wimps. But don't get cocky. There's no way you can win the tournament.

Thanks for the tip. I'll file it under other things I don't care about. Now rack off!

Sakura slammed the connection shut, locking it against any further communication from that creep. She took a deep breath and gazed at the foaming sea swirling around the ship's hull.

"Come, we're getting closer," Kurama offered his arm and led Sakura to join the rest of their team.

"So, that's Hanging Neck Island," Kuwabara stood at the bow of the ship with Hiei and the Masked Fighter. His face lit up. "This is going to be wild, you guys!"

In the distance, the staggering silhouette of the island drew ever closer. Sakura shivered in the salt spray, and with a quick look at Yusuke, leaned up against Kurama. He glanced down at her and smiled.

"It's kind of cold out here," she mumbled. Kurama gently pulled Sakura to his side, only daring to do so because Yusuke wasn't awake to tell either of them off.

Stamp. Stamp. Stamp. The monotony and endless repetition was what finally caused Koenma to snap. He hurled his stack of papers he was meant to be stamping into the air.

"I can't sit here anymore!" he cried. "I'm going to the tournament! Forget this moronic paperwork!"

Jorge glanced over from his own desk. "But you have to keep stamping, sir. It's very important work,"

Irritably, Koenma pressed the stamp to his assistant's face. "Hmph! A trained monkey could do this work!"

Jorge gasped in horror. "Koenma sir, you're irresponsible!"

"Well it's really a pity you feel that way. I was about to take you with me," Koenma hopped down from his chair and began to leave. "Ciao, ogre. I guess I'm going alone,"

Jorge gulped. "Wait! Koenma sir!" he hurried after the toddler.

"Are we really staying here?" Kuwabara's eyes bugged out at the sight of the Hotel Kubikukuri. It was the fanciest looking building Sakura had ever seen, except maybe Spirit World. All six members of Team Urameshi had made it to the hotel without consequence. It seemed to be the only building on the island aside from the stadium nearby, obviously where the tournament would take place.

Kuwabara was hauling Yusuke's sleeping body along with his bag. Sakura carried both twin's belongings. The doors to the hotel opened automatically and Sakura gingerly stepped inside.

"Wow," Kuwabara breathed. "Well it's definitely better than the pirate ship,"

Sakura had never felt so out of place. The foyer was crammed with very obviously rich patrons all dressed to the nines. She was all too aware of her plain jeans and faux leather jacket.

A hotel staffer dressed in a tuxedo approached. "The best of the evening, gentlemen and young lady. The hotel has been expecting you. Please, follow me,"

"This is definitely a step up from what I'm used to," Sakura admitted to Kurama.

"You're telling me, Kura," Kuwabara said darkly. "I got a bad feeling about the people in here. I never trust grown-ups dressed that fancy,"

The staffer led them past the other guests who didn't bother to lower their voices as they pointed and commented at their arrival.

"For some reason, I thought they'd be bigger. And what's that plain little girl doing here? You can't honestly tell me that slip of a thing is fighting,"

"Be nice to them Caroline. They're about to be dead,"

"This is going to be a very intriguing tournament,"

Sakura did her best to ignore them, but her muscles tensed. Kurama patted her arm reassuringly.

Let them think what they wish, Sakura. I assure you, I do not agree with the sentiment that you are plain in any degree.

Sakura's face grew slightly warm. Uh, I was actually annoyed at the 'they're about to die' comment. But thanks.

"Urameshi's team has checked in," Younger Toguro closed the door behind him when he entered Sakyo's room. The crime lord didn't turn around from his post. From his luxury suite window, Sakyo had watched the ship arrive at the dock. He contentedly puffed his cigarette. He knew Team Urameshi would be the only one to make it off alive. So far, everything was going according to plan.

"I have spoken with the ship's captain. The other apparitions were no match for them,"

"Were you really expecting it any other way, Sakyo?" Toguro asked as if he knew Sakyo's thoughts.

Sakyo didn't answer right away. He picked up the fighting schedule from his table and looked at it lovingly. "Their first true test will come soon enough. I've arranged for Urameshi's team to fight Team Rokuyukai in the very first match tomorrow,"

"Rokuyukai?" Toguro pondered. "Well, that should be interesting,"

Sakyo waved the paper he held teasingly. "You know what else is interesting?" he purred. "Urameshi's sister has been registered as the alternate fighter,"

Toguro barely reacted. "It matters not. I admit fighting her might be interesting with her telepower. But like I said, she is really of little consequence except as leverage,"

"But therein lies the fun," Sakyo smirked. "I'd say the team is eager to keep the girl from fighting, or at least Yusuke is. Very clever tactic to minimise the danger to her. Too bad it won't help at all,"

"What are you suggesting?" Toguro still spoke in that eerily calm voice.

Sakyo placed the list down delicately. "Nothing yet. Let's see how the first round goes to begin with,"

There was too much of everything in the suite and for Sakura it was overwhelming. The beds were huge, the bathrooms ornate, the overall space cavernous. It was like living in her own apartment. One that she definitely didn't belong in.

Awkwardly, she kicked off her shoes and placed her bag by her chosen bed. There was something she was sorely tempted to do, but it seemed so juvenile.

Oh, go ahead. She told herself. There's nobody here to judge.

With a childish grin, Sakura flung herself onto the gigantic mattress. It was so soft and comfortable, not to mention a lot of room to spread out…

Kyap slapped her yet again. "You won't fool us like you did Suzaku," he snarled, tossing 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?"

"NO!" Sakura bolted upright with a shriek. Her head was spinning. She couldn't breathe and her heart was pounding at the speed of light.

Stop, don't think about it, you're not there anymore…

There was a knock at the door. "Sakura?! Is everything alright?"

In her hurry to get off the bed, Sakura caught her foot on the duvet and crashed to the ground. "Y-yes!" she managed to call out to whoever was knocking. "Come in!"

The door flew open. Kurama hurried in followed by Kuwabara, and - to Sakura's astonishment - Hiei.

"Kura, you screamed. What happened?" Kuwabara's face was anxious.

Sakura was still trying to disentangle herself. "Nothing," she squeaked. "I just fell is all. God, I'm so clumsy, tripping over my own feet!"

"Is that right?" Hiei wasn't convinced. "It sounded more like you were being attacked. Wouldn't surprise me,"

Sakura got to her feet rather unsteadily. "Sorry. I didn't mean to disturb you,"

"You didn't," Kurama shook his head, but his smile didn't mask his concern entirely. "You don't have to stay here all alone. Why don't you come join us? There's coffee," He offered his hand.

"Ok," Sakura breathed and followed the boys to their room across the hall. She was so embarrassed. Had jumping onto a double bed really triggered a flashback? How humiliating.

Kurama turned to the hotel employee. "One more coffee for the young lady, if you please,"

"Would you mind if I had some chamomile tea, actually?" Sakura mumbled. "I don't drink coffee,"

"But of course," the waiter handed Sakura the cup. "Compliments of the hotel," With a polite bow, he took his leave. Yusuke was still asleep on the sofa. The Masked Fighter was sitting cross-legged nearby.

Sakura's trembling hands gripped her cup. She found the heat was bringing her back to reality the longer she held it.

"Careful," Kuwabara warned Sakura as she took a sip. "Those fancy guys might be trying to poison us,"

Even Kurama had zero patience for that theory. "Does that really make sense, Kuwabara? Why would they bring us all the way here to poison us?"

"The organisers want to see us fight," Hiei said roughly. "They'll save their murder attempts for tomorrow,"

Sakura nearly snorted her tea up her nose. "Well that's comforting,"

Kuwabara rummaged in his bag for a soft drink can. "You guys can talk your logic all you want. I'm sticking with the trusty old aluminium,"

"Wait…something doesn't add up," Sakura was staring at the lone coffee cup on the table. "Why is there only one cup left?"

"That's the one I'm not drinking, remember? Duh!" Kuwabara said impatiently.

Kurama nodded. "So there should be two. One for you and one for Yusuke,"

A child giggled from behind. Sakura jumped so badly she lost half her tea. Everyone looked over in astonishment and got to their feet at the sight of the intruder. A little boy was crouched on the sideboard next to the door happily drinking coffee.

"How did you get in here?" Kurama asked sharply.

"He must've been hiding in the room before we even came in!" Kuwabara gasped.

"Fibber fibber! I came through the door after you got here. Isn't that what good boys are supposed to do? I guess I did forget to knock, though," He took another sip of coffee. "So you guys are the guest team aren't you? You're so lucky. Oh, my name is Rinku, by the way. I'm on the Rokuyukai team that you're fighting tomorrow," he looked at Sakura, who was trying to mop up the liquid soaking into her top. "And you have a girl fighter. Zeru won't like that,"

Sakura glared. "Is that so? Poor baby. However will he cope?"

Rinku giggled again and balanced on the tips of his fingers. "I wish I was a guest," he said happily. "They don't have to go to all the boring opening ceremonies and meetings about the rules. You just show up here and fight. Guess you don't have to learn about all the prizes and final round stuff when you're gonna be dead soon,"

What is this kid? Kuwabara asked Sakura. He talks about death like it's a toy.

"Somebody told me the guests would be special so I got excited, but you don't look special at all. Maybe I'll even beat you with no hands,"

"Don't you think you're talking too much?" a new, sinister voice said from the corner. Sakura jumped again which emptied what little tea remained in her cup. Leaning up against the wall like he owned the place was a very muscular demon with blonde hair.

"Hey Zeru," Rinku bounced over to him. "I was just saying hi to our enemies,"

Zeru opened the door for them to leave. He gave them all a contemptuous look, lingering on Sakura who was still dripping wet.

"Jumpy little thing, aren't you?" He sneered. "Enjoy your last night with the living. Let's just say that tomorrow will see you strongly resembling your coffee cup,"

"What?" Kuwabara blinked.

The cup Sakura was holding shattered in her hands. She and her companions glared at Zeru and Rinku as they departed. Sakura dropped the pieces of china and furiously went after them.

"Kura, wait!" Kuwabara called.

Zeru and Rinku sauntered down the hall, practically trailing arrogance in their wake. "Did you see their sixth man sleeping on the couch? He never moved," Zeru sniffed.

"So?" Rinku sounded bored.

Zeru's brow furrowed. "I can't figure out if it's because he knew we wouldn't attack him tonight, or if he simply wasn't afraid of us,"

"I think he's just an idiot!" Rinku declared with a laugh.

"There must be something different about that boy," Zeru said darkly. "We will see,"

"Too right you will!" Sakura snapped from behind. "That boy is my twin brother, and he'll kick your arrogant ass to Spirit World!"

Both slowly turned to her. "I don't know who you are, girl, nor do I care," Zeru snorted. "I don't even know why women are allowed to enter. You won't last five minutes in the ring. Now run along,"

"Ooh, tough guy," Sakura mocked. "I know your type. Hiding behind insults and thinking you're above everyone. That arrogance will be your undoing,"

Kurama appeared behind Sakura and gently pulled her back. "Leave it, Sakura. These two are not worth your energy,"

Zeru looked at Kurama with pure loathing. "Traitor," he spat. "How could you let yourself sink so low to sympathise with these filthy humans?"

"My reasons are my own," Kurama replied. "I suggest you tread lightly when it comes to the girl,"

Zeru looked outraged, but Rinku merely smiled. Kurama brought Sakura back into the boy's room and shut the door.

Hiei rounded on her. "Stupid girl. Do you have a deathwish?" he snapped.

"I'm really not in the mood, Hiei," Sakura warned tiredly. "I'm going to bed,"

Without looking back at them all, she left.

"Sakura," Kurama followed. "I know it's just across the hall, but may I walk you back to your room?"

Sakura looked at him wearily. "If you really want to," she crossed the wide hallway to her door, but froze as she touched the handle. "You're still worried about me, aren't you?"

Kurama didn't answer. Sakura sighed and opened the door. "Come on in," she mumbled, collapsing on the couch. She didn't want to go anywhere near the bedroom.

He sat down beside her. "When you screamed before…it was another flashback, wasn't it?"

Sakura's throat was too tight to speak. She simply nodded.

"You don't have to tell me the details," Kurama assured her. "But what can I do to help you feel better?"

Just stay with me. Until I fall asleep. She couldn't bring herself to say it out loud.

Whatever you need. I'll stay all night, if that's what it takes.

Sakura crouched on the shower floor under the stream of hot water and buried her head in her hands. In the back of her mind, she vaguely recalled assuming this very position the night of Yusuke's wake, but this time her distress was for completely different reasons. Honestly, that memory felt like someone else's life after everything she'd been through since.

Kurama had temporarily gone back to the others so Sakura could get herself together. She'd hoped having a shower would help soothe her rapid heartbeat, but the effect was minimal. Sakura shut off the water, dried herself off and pulled on a loose cotton top and leggings.

She walked out into the sitting room where she'd prepared the couch with a pillow and a blanket, turned down the lights and climbed in. There was no way she was going to sleep in that bed, or any double bed for that matter.

After a few minutes, the door opened and quietly shut. Sakura watched through her eyelashes as Kurama approached. He looked slightly surprised that Sakura was lying on the couch, but he didn't comment. Instead, he pulled the blanket over her before sitting at the other end.

"I told you I'd be back in a few minutes," Kurama said calmly to the person who'd just entered. "Keep your voice down. She's sleeping,"

"I didn't say anything," It was Hiei. Sakura lay perfectly still and kept her breathing slow and even. What was he doing here?

"Still babysitting, I see," Hiei continued scornfully. "Where's your pride?"

Kurama chuckled lightly. "Nice try, Hiei, but I sense your concern for Sakura,"

"Don't be ridiculous," Hiei muttered.

"There is no shame in admitting you've grown fond of her. Because of Yukina, I presume?"

Hiei gave a non-committal jerk of the head. "Let me guess. She was screaming before from some kind of episode?"

"You already know it was," there was a definite note of coolness to Kurama's voice. "But I do not know exactly what caused her to relive the trauma,"

Hiei snorted. "Trauma? From what, exactly?"

"Sakura didn't share the details, but my best guess is the tokage," Kurama growled.

"Those reptilian weaklings? Absurd,"

Though his voice remained light and calm, an icy chill emanated from Kurama. "If you knew what those monsters attempted to do to her, you would not say such foolish things,"

Hiei was half-hidden in the dim light, but Sakura saw the shock flash across his face. He clenched his jaw and left without saying anything.

Kurama stood. They were finally alone, and Sakura was just drifting off to sleep. He gently brushed her hair aside. "Rest well, dear Sakura," he murmured as the night closed over her.

The stadium was packed. Every seat appeared to be filled with all manner of demon spectators. Already the crowd was howling for blood.

Team Urameshi were ready and waiting in the entrance tunnel. Any second now, they'd be introduced. Kurama and Hiei stood stone faced. Not a trace of emotion was on either of their faces. Kuwabara was supporting Yusuke, who was still fast asleep. All attempts to wake him had failed. The Masked Fighter's disguise was still in place.

Sakura hung back in the tunnel, her combat outfit still hidden under her jacket. This was it. The day of the Dark Tournament had arrived, and she didn't know how they'd manage if Yusuke didn't wake up soon.

She'd trained hard for months, learning new techniques from Genkai, Master Shinsuke, Kurama, and even Hiei. All there was left to do was hope that would be enough to come out the other side. Not just her, but all members of the team.

"Are you ready?" Kuwabara muttered to her. He sounded concerned.

Sakura took a breath and squared her shoulders. There was no going back now. "Ready as I'll ever be,"

Fireworks exploded into the air above the stadium like gunshots and the crowd responded with a deafening roar.

The bubbly announcer raised the microphone to her lips. "Welcome, humans and demons alike to the glorious Hanging Neck Island! Let the Dark Tournament begin!"

- End of Book One -

A.N. Thank you all for sticking with Sakura and me throughout Book 1. I truly appreciate all who've read, followed, favourited and reviewed. You guys are Plus Ultra awesome. The Spirit Detective Saga has been quite a ride, but the journey is far from over. So, what now?

Book 2 will officially be released Sunday January 17th.

What's that? You can't wait that long? Well, don't worry too much, because Wednesday January 13th, I will be posting a sneak preview of Book 2!

Please REVIEW if you're enjoying the story, every bit of feedback keeps me writing more content for you to enjoy. My DMs are always open if you have any questions or ideas. Make sure you're subscribed to author alerts as well.

Next Update: Sneak preview of Book 2!