Disclaimers- I still don't own Yuyu Hakusho or Weib Kruez but I still wish I do.
Blood
Aya and the others had scouted the place for the mansion they were suppose to raid. From Omi's calculation, from the cabin they were in it was only a few kilometers due northeast. They had been walking for 30 minutes now and there was still no sight of cameras or any security devices. Aya was getting irritated.
"Omi are we there yet?" That would have been Yoji. There were only a few things around the place that was strange and it had not bothered any of them until Aya saw the only thing that could make this mission fail. He stopped and everyone stopped as well.
"We're heading back."
"But we are here already. Can't we just continue it?"
"We need to head back. Now!" He turned to the other direction and the others followed him. They were just walking for a few minutes when Aya felt the ground give way under him and they had all fallen down.
"Wow. The view here is great!" Yukiko said as she turned back to see Kurama just coming up the slope.
"Look Minamino kun there's the beach we are heading too in a few days." Kurama had reached her side and saw the beach she was pointing at. Keiko and Yukina would love to go there... He thought as he turned to Yukiko and saw some of her hair falling towards her eyes. He reached to tuck it in and when he touched her hair Yukiko seemed to tense and look at him.
"Don't worry I'm not going to harm you."
"It's not that. They're in trouble." She turned towards the forest and ran towards that direction.
"Yukiko wait up." Kurama ran to catch up on her and when the path had grown harder to follow he jumped to the trees and followed her from up there. He watched as she ran to a direction he could not see and the path seems to just stretch barren for her. Then when he saw the cliff she was heading too he jumped in front of her to stop her.
"Yukiko there's a cliff up ahead."
"I have to help them Minamino kun."
"Wait here I'll go look."
He slowly made his way towards the cliff and bent down to look. He saw four guys unconscious a few feet below them on a ledge. He recognized the red hair and the golden hair of Aya and Yoji. He turned to Yukiko and told her what he saw.
"I don't know how they ended up there but I want you to stay here, I'm going to get some vines and make a rope. Don't go to the edge I'll be back soon." He sped into the forest and took some seeds from his hair. He channeled some energy into them and they grew into vines. He coiled them in his hands and went back to Yukiko.
When he got there Yukiko was tying a long piece of vine on a large tree. She looked towards Kurama. "Sorry I found some vines too and thought to start tying them to this tree." Kurama nodded and tied the vines he had on the ones she found. When he touched the vines he could feel the residue of power in them and looking at Yukiko she did seem a little tired.
"Stay here I'll go down and help them up."
"Okay." She managed to say before falling under the tree in exhaustion.
Kurama tied the end of the vine on his waist and slowly descended the ridge. When he got to them he shook Omi awake and with him they tried to wake up the others. They had managed to wake up Yoji and Ken but Aya had fallen and hit his head on one of the rocks. Kurama had been afraid that the ledge was going to give way so he gave Omi the vine.
"Climb up I'll take care of him. Yukiko is waiting at the top."
Omi had climbed the vine as Kurama persistently shook Aya. Ken was next and then Yoji. Kurama had looked at the faces of the people at the top.
"He won't wake up." He had shouted and when he looked up again Yukiko was coming down.
"Yukiko come back up here." Ken had shouted.
"Yukiko chan listen to us you can't do anything."
Yukiko was now beside Kurama. "What do you think are you doing?" Kurama had told her.
"Saving someone who had saved me before."
"Go back up there. I'll bring him up."
"No you go up. You have done all you can do Minamino kun let me handle this."
The ledge was about to collapse and with hesitation Kurama grabbed the vine and went up. Yukiko upon seeing Kurama going up kneeled beside Aya and looked at him. She touched his head and found blood. I thought so... She placed her hand on his temple and channeled some of her energy to him. The wound disappeared but he was still unconscious. She felt the vine beside her and she tied it around Aya's waist and shouted up,
"Pull him up I'll go after him."
"Yukiko chan that would be dangerous the ledge is about to collapse."
At that moment she felt the ledge move. "I'll be all right."
"Aya will kill us if he found out."
"He won't! Come on pull him up he really needs to get some medicine."
So they pulled him up slowly. They were untying the knot on his waist when they heard a scream. They scrambled to look at the ledge but there was none anymore.
"Yukiko chan!" They called in unison but there was no answer. Just then Aya had stirred.
"What's going on?"
"Yukiko's down there."
Aya had looked at the cliff and remembered how they ended up there. "Why is she there?" So they reluctantly told him what had happened. After that he grabbed Kurama's shirt and was about to punch him when a voice broke through the silence.
"Tasukete!" (Help!)
"Yukiko chan?"
"Will you guys throw the vine already; I'm really getting tired holding on here."
They all looked down the cliff and found Yukiko holding unto some rocks. "Hold on." Kurama had said and threw the vine towards her. When she was about to grab the vine the rocks moved and she slipped.
"Yukiko chan!"
Ken had been watching on the edge the whole time and for some reason he remembered something. It had been the same thing. She was holding on for life and all he could do was watch. He was one of the most powerful and yet he was only able to watch. That was why he was taken out of the unit and why he had been sent to Exile. If only he was able to do something, anything to help her. When Yukiko had slipped and was not able to get the vine his heart had jumped. He wasn't going to let it happen again. He saw Yukiko hold on to some more rocks and was quite out of reach of the vine. He turned to Aya and Kurama.
"Hold on to the vine I'm going after her."
With that he pulled the vine to him and tied the end to his feet. After that he looked at the guys and jumped into the cliff.
"Ken kun!" Omi had shouted but he saw the gleam in his eyes. He knew Kenren was awake.
Ken had dived into the cliff and as the vine pulled him back he was just level to Yukiko's hands. "Yukiko grab my hand." Yukiko turned and looked at Ken.
"Kenren..."
Ken smiled and nodded. "Come princess everyone's waiting up there." She nodded and took Ken's hands.
"Aya kun pull us up."
They seem to rise slowly and as they were rising Aya saw that the vine was slowly being cut. With the bit of strength he had he pulled the vine to him and shouted,
"Ken the vine won't take the pressure anymore. If you can swing her to the edge and grab unto to it too, do it."
Ken had heard Aya and smiled at Yukiko. "You heard him. You can do it just imagine you're in training." He swung her to the ledge and grabbed the edge as well just as the vine gave away. Kurama hurried to Yukiko's aid and Omi to Ken. Kurama pulled Yukiko to him and she landed on his body. Kurama embraced Yukiko and caressed her hair. Yukiko felt at ease in his arms and she closed her eyes relishing the touch.
"Don't you ever do that again."
"If I can help it I won't."
Kurama continued to caress her hair just as Omi tapped them on the shoulder.
"Come on we need to head back."
Kurama stood up and offered his hand to her. She accepted and stood up as well.
They were heading back to the cabin to change when they had taken a wrong turn and ended up in a wet place. Yukiko saw caterpillars, snakes and even slugs but then there was a moving slimy thing on one of the trees that fell on the moss covered ground. She ignored it and continued to walk. She slipped once but Kurama had helped her up. Since then he had taken her hand and guided her.
They had stopped to check if they were going the right way and Yukiko had looked down and saw the slimy creatures slowly making their way across the moss. Kurama was beside her and looked at her thoughtfully.
"What are you looking at?"
"I dunno. What are these things?"
"Oh those black slimy things?"
"Yeah. What are they?"
"They're leeches."
"Leeches? What are leeches?"
"They are slimy creatures that live in forests. They are usually black or any dark color. I wouldn't touch them of I were you."
"Why? What do they do?"
"They stick to your skin and suck your blood. They are hard to get off and they only disentangle themselves when they have enough blood to feed on."
At the mention of blood Yukiko drew her hand away and Aya looked at Yukiko. She had gone silent but not leaving her place at the ground. She seem to remember something then place her hands on her head.
"Yukiko what's wrong?"
Yukiko did not answer but instead lean away from the leeches.
"Yukiko? Yukiko?"
She had leaned towards Kurama too much that they both fell on the moss. Yukiko had curled up in Kurama's arms and mumble words he couldn't understand. She shook her head as Kurama tried to comfort her.
"Yukiko, don't worry everything will be all right."
He caressed her hair and hugged her turning her eyes away from the leeches. Aya, Omi and Ken had looked at each other then to the form of the girl in Kurama's arms.
"She lost it."
It had taken them 30 minutes to convince Yukiko that there was nothing scary about leeches and by that time it had gotten really dark and Kurama's pants were soaked and accumulated a nice moss green color. All the way back Kurama had Yukiko in his arms guiding her in the forest much to Aya's regret and relief.
When they had arrived in the cabin the bonfire had started and some of the students were looking for them. Omi had talked to the sensei and entered the cabin. Yukiko was still a little shaken and in Kurama's arms when he directed her to her room. When he was certain she was okay he went to his room to change. Meanwhile Omi, Ken and Aya was sitting on the chairs in the dining hall.
"So what do you think?"
"About Minamino or about Hime's reaction to leeches?" Omi had said to Ken as he was bandaging Aya's wrist.
"Both really."
"I haven't really known Kurama that much unless you consider Hime chan's stories so I'm not really sure what to make of Minamino but about the leeches I'm really surprised. She was never frightened of anything before."
"Unless you count the demons and the power hungry bastards who want her blood and her powers."
"But Aya no one knows about her capabilities, not in this world anyway."
"But demons brought her in this world, threatened her in a bloodied room, most probably the king's orders. That would really put a mark in her heart. To be blooded was to be her life and fate. She already escaped that but she never thought there would be some things that could take that back."
"And Kurama?"
"Yes it's true I have known the Youko and there are similarities in the human and the demon but I'm not yet sure."
"So are you going to just let them?"
"Only until we are sure that it's him."
"And Yokan?"
"He'll awaken... He has too."
"Aya, I was meaning to ask you. A while ago you turned back. Why?"
"Demons are patrolling. Only mean that the mansion is heavily protected. Not being prepared could mean death."
"And the cliff?"
"The demons' doing."
"So you're telling us that there are demons here and Yukiko is just walking around alone."
"Kurama won't let anything happen to her."
"We don't know if he is Kurama."
"Don't worry he'll protect her just the same."
Kurama had lain in his bed thinking of what had happened. Of course he remembered Yuko well, who wouldn't? The Cerenian features had not been one to be easily forgotten. White streaked wavy long hair, black fox ears and tail, markings on the face and the wings like an angel. Yukiko had possessed all of Yuko's characteristics that was why he was positive that Yukiko was Yuko. Even the flowers on her proved it, for only one person could have a flower live forever as long as it's in her touch. But what greatly puzzled him was that if she had remembered him why doesn't she know?
Is it because she has not seen me in Youko form yet? She has not connected the clues? Or is it because she has forgotten me and the promise? But that's impossible. A soul bonded could never be separated even in death. There's no way she could not remember. Unless she's not Yuko. Kurama stared at the ceiling and heard Yukiko mumble words that was incoherent. He turned to his side and looked out the window. The sun had set but there was still some light outside. He pulled his jacket from the chair and jumped out of the window. There was only one way to calm his nerves. He entered the forest and found a clearing where he trained with his plants in Youko form.
They were all sleeping that night when Aya had woken up to get a glass of water. He made his way towards the door when he heard some movement in the other room. He stopped and listened but there was no more sound. He opened the door just as Kurama open his as well.
"Did you hear that?"
"Only some movement nothing else. Why?"
"Nothing I must be hallucinating."
"Join me for tea?"
Kurama thought nothing wrong about it nodded and followed Aya down the stairs into the kitchenette.
"Do you know anything about demons?"
"Not much but I think I know enough." Kurama had cautiously hidden his powers as he sat down on one of the chairs.
"Do you know anything about a place called Subete?"
"Subete?"
"I guess not." Aya had his back turned to Kurama and when he turned around he handed him a mug. There had been a few minutes of silence until Aya looked at him straight in the eye.
"Don't play dumb with me Shuuichi Minamino."
"What are you talking about?"
"I know you were the one who helped us a few weeks ago. You were the one who wielded that rose whip and killed that demon in the school grounds and I know that you know more than you let out."
Kurama sipped the tea in the mug before answering Aya. "True I am the one and you haven't been very truthful either. You're powers are unlike those of the demons or any human in this world though you look human enough. Who are you?"
"I was going to ask you the very same thing."
They both sipped their tea and silence passed between the two of them. "So who are you?"
"Rairan, guardian of the princess of the Dark realm, also known as Subete, and you might be?"
"Kurama from the spirit world, reincarnated in this world much like you, I believe." With those words Kurama changed into the Youko he was.
"Ah so you are the person we are trying to locate. And I was correct to assume you are him, the flowers are from you then?"
"You know about the flowers?"
"We are her most trusted friends." Aya smiled bitterly. "We are her only friends."
"So it is true that the Dark realm is collapsing with the spirit world?"
"The king had made deals with the metaworld, the world below as Koenma sama has put it. I am not as sure as I let on. Yuko sama is the only one who told me that. And you are one of the warriors the great Koenma has sent then? To find the princess?"
Kurama nodded and looked at the middle door. "I'm afraid we are. And my friends are the ones responsible for her scar and near fatal incident."
"So you knew who Yukiko was before you met her?"
"Souls that bonded never forget nor do they get separated for long. A wise man told me before. I knew the minute I saw her eyes, then at the play when we were doing a part and even under the tree."
"I'll pretend I didn't hear those lines and leave it at that agreed? So you remembered our meeting. How convenient."
"Yes but then you did not give me a name. Now you did, does it mean anything?"
"Only that you have gained my trust and soon the trust of my comrades."
There was glass shattering and Kurama and Aya stood up and climbed the stairs. They opened Yukiko's room only to find her missing the window shattered.
"Wake the others I'll follow them. My plants will show you the way."
"There's no need. She's wearing the earring, we'll find her."
Aya went to the other room to wake the others while Kurama followed the demon that took Yukiko. He wasn't able to ask his question and that made him a little irritated. He growled and increased his speed to catch up with the demon.
Omi had pulled the tracker out of his backpack and ran after Aya. Yuko was kidnapped and there was no way they were not going to be prepared to fight the king if they had too.
"Ken bring those seed you found in the closet. She might need it." Omi said as Ken was surveying the window frame.
"Yoji kun there's a dart in the closet with the color of light blue. Get it and place it in a plastic bag." Omi turned to Aya who was channeling his energy to finding the demon who took Yuko.
"Aya kun we are ready. Find them yet?"
"Yeah they're going northeast, the direction of the mansion."
"Oh great..."
Yukiko woke up in a dark room, her hands and feet were tied with an energy rope, something she could not break or get free. Her mouth was free but her throat was chained to a post. There was a rusty taste in her mouth. She ignored it and tried to stand. She found that the chain was long enough for her to hop to the window and see where she was. It was still dark outside and she could not make out what was around the room and what was making the smell that was invading her nose.
She had a hard time hopping since she could feel the sleek feel of something on the floor. There was also the sleek feel on her hands and body. The thing that was on her body had made her hair stick to her face and her scalp. It had felt uncomfortable but she ignored it. All she was focusing on was to get to the window to know where she was.
What could this be? She had thought since it would not make her mind think of anything else. The smell seemed familiar to her and she strained to remember what it was. She was about to say it when she reached the window and the light from the moon made her see that she was in a room filled with and she was covered in...
"Blood..."
She tried not to scream but the thought was too much for her that she screamed and screamed until her throat was sore and she was exhausted. She didn't notice when she had fallen to the floor but she found herself tasting, smelling the cursed thing and it was around her. She could not escape the feel, taste or sight of blood. Her screams filled the forest and the mansion and outside the mansion about a few meters away Kurama and the others heard her screams of terror which made them work faster in getting to her.
"Aya we can't just enter without knowing where she is."
"I won't be able to wait any longer."
Yoji held Aya back. "You can't go Aya. Yukiko won't be in any danger as of yet." Aya pulled his arm away and looked at Yoji.
"You have no authority over me."
"Yes I do."
"Shut up."
Yoji punched Aya on the face just as Kurama came back from searching the grounds.
"I found her... What's going on here?"
"Aya Yoji stop this."
Another scream filled the forest air and Yoji looked at Aya thoughtfully.
"Don't you remember you made me promise to knock some sense into you if you got out of character Rairan?"
"How did you know?"
"I never forgot... I don't know why but I never forgot who we were and what we were suppose to do. The day she came to the shop I knew who she was and why she was here. I don't like the idea of her being locked up that mansion but we can't just attack without planning our moves. Remember what happened the last time? We got sent to Exile!"
"Yoji kun calm down." Omi pleaded as he continued to type on his laptop.
Aya took a deep breath and sighed. "He's right. I did make him promise."
"So would you like to know where she is?"
"Where?" Ken had asked as he turned away from the gates.
"Last floor up. She's locked up in a room full of blood. I'm not sure if it's an illusion or the real thing but everything is dripping with blood even her."
"That explains the screams. Anything that may cook up trouble?"
"No my friends are battling the demons inside. All we need to do is get to the floor and get her out from there."
"You're friends? What are they doing here?"
"A mission from the spirit world. Seems like the owner are training demons for an up coming battle in Subete. I bumped into Yusuke a while ago and told me what was happening."
"How could that be? Only one person can call battles like that and only one person can invite people from..." Ken became silent and looked at the others. "We need to get her out of there."
"Agreed."
They rushed to the entrance and up the stairs. When they got to the last floor a tall brick wall was greeting them. Kurama felt his way through it but found none. Aya knocked on the wall and found it real. He looked at Omi and Ken.
"We won't be able to blast our way through."
"How about Yoji?"
"I can try but you know we haven't used these things for a while we can't just use them and expect results."
"We have no choice at the matter Yoji kun. Do it."
Kurama and the others stood back just as Yoji gathered a ball of lightning in his hands. He looked for a weak spot and finding it he threw the ball towards it. The wall crumbled to reveal a door. Kurama tried the knob but it was locked he pulled a pin from his hair and started picking the lock. Once he heard the desired sound he stood back and kicked the door open. He dropped his Youko form and went to Yukiko who was in a shadowed corner, her eyes closed and crying.
Aya looked around the room and frowned. Omi blew the window away with a wind attack and Ken washed the bloodied room with a rain shower. Lastly they all turned to Yukiko who was still covered in blood and worse, it was blood from destroyed demons. Ken looked at Omi, Aya and Yoji, he then whispered a soft chant. He opened his hands and the blood was washed away from her. Omi closed his eyes and brought a gentle breeze to dry Yukiko. That done Kurama took hold of the energy chains and broke them while Aya broke the chains on her neck.
Yukiko opened her tear stained eyes and saw Kurama looking at her. "Yukiko are you all right?" Yukiko threw her arms around Kurama and cried new tears. Kurama sighed in relief and gratitude. He caressed her hair and hugged her tenderly.
"I'd hate to break this wonderful scene but we really need to get the hell out of here."
"Kurama take Yukiko out of here and back to the cabin. We need to finish something here."
"Kurama?"
"Yukiko that's not important right now. You have to rest." Yoji said as he sent a slight electricity through her body to paralyze her and patted her on the head. "Don't worry neko we'll protect you we will always protect you."
Kurama looked at them and tried to ask something but Aya raised his hand. "It's not important. Bring her to safety, you need to bring her to safety." After that they left pulling out their weapons and looking at each other.
"Ready?"
"Ready as we'll ever be Rairan."
Aya had looked at the room once again and left it. Kurama had jumped out from the window and left. Aya and the others went down to the basement and opened the first and only door there was. They found four demons and three other figures in the room.
"Ah I see the guardians have decided to join our little party."
"You will pay for the kidnapping and the suffering you have given our princess." Omi had started, raising his darts to eye level.
"Through the crest and oath the guardians of Subete had made..." Ken said revealing his bugnuk.
"We pledge and vow..." Yoji uncoiled his wires little sparks of electricity running through it.
"You will pay and die." Aya had unsheathed his katana and positioned it in front of him.
The four demons looked at the four figures and then the three. They decided to go for the four and attacked them. Aya went to the left as Yoji went to the right, Ken went straight forward and Omi stayed where he was. The demons also separated giving room for the elements to do their worst.
"Fire sword." Aya commanded and his katana blazed with fire engulfing the demon and part of the room in fire. The three other figures evaded the attack. Yoji had his captive wrapped in wires and sending electricity in his body. "This is no fun."
He had said as the demon slumped into the floor, dead. Ken had sliced the demon and washed it's blood into the wall. "Piece of cake." He turned to Omi who had the demon pinned to the wall as it slowly deteriorated and became wasted. "Done."
Aya forcefully swished his sword to the side sending some sparks to the floor and turned to the other figures. "Thank you for keeping the demons company. We'll ignore the fact you tried to kill our princess. Send our regards to Koenma sama."
"And thanks for your help. Hopefully we wouldn't be of need it in the near future." Yoji finished for Aya and they went out of the room, vanishing into the shadows.
Kurama had stayed with Yukiko since they arrived from the mansion. He had debated if he was going to tell her the truth or just wait for Aya to tell her all the things that had happened. He had held her hand for the whole time and to him it was the best thing he could do for now. He had felt the pain in his heart but he was able to hide it from everyone. As of now the only thing he could feel was comfort and relief that was good enough for him.
He heard the door open and he knew they were back. He did not want to leave her side so he waited for Aya and the others to enter the room and tell him what happened. As he had thought Aya opened the door and looked at him. He had mouthed the words "leave her" and closed the door again. He was hesitant but he needed to know what was going on and what will happen to them after. He kissed her hand and placed it on her stomach. He felt the longing but he knew it would not be for long.
When he came out of the door three darts flew past his face. When he turned four pairs of eyes watched him descend and sit with them. He looked at them one at a time and the spirit energy he had felt before had soared incredibly high. There were gleams in their eyes that he could not explain. He turned to Aya and nodded.
"Nice to know I'm welcome."
"So this is Kurama." Yoji said as he lighted a cigar that Omi extinguished with a snap of his fingers.
"I thought he was a Youko." Omi said as he pulled the cigar out of Yoji's mouth and threw it in the trash bag.
"He is... If you guys have not seen he was the same Youko that was with us at the mansion." Ken answered with a nod.
"Please stop talking about me as if I am not in this room with you."
"Forgive us. We are just a little skeptical."
"That's one way to put it chibi."
"What do you wish to know Kurama?"
"You're names would be a good start... You're real names."
"Rairan Tzu. Fujimiya Ran, also Aya."
"Yokan Zen. Known to the girls as Kodou Yoji."
"Kenren Tei. Was known as Hidaka Ken."
"And Mamomi Feng. Was formerly known as Tsukiyono Omi."
"And from what I had heard you are the guardians of Yuko, the princess of Subete? The four guys that was sent to this world as Exile and protectors of the gate."
"Rairan he's good." Yoji commented as he sent electricity on the table towards Kurama, Aya pulled his katana and placed it in the path, the blade absorbing the shock.
"This is no time to play around. If we are correct Subete is in real danger and the spirit world is going to collapse in a matter of days. We will be going against our vows and our honor."
"You don't have to sound so melodramatic Rairan." His sword went to the speakers throat namely Yoji.
"So what is the whole deal with Subete?"
"Kurama, the only way to destroy Subete is if the princess die. The only way to Subete is through the princess. To take access and control the princess must be eliminated and to do all of those in one quick move is if Subete will host a tournament."
"And that was what the mansion in the forest is for. To train demons to fight in the tournament."
"Exactly."
"You talk as if your a lot older than what you look like."
"That is because I am older than Omi is."
"Let's stop this playing around and ask your question Kurama we can all sense it."
Kurama turned to Aya and smiled. "You clearly know more about me than you guys would let me see."
"The princess is a great story teller. And Cerenians could see anything from a person's mind only by touch."
"There is another question you wish to ask."
"There is but there's no need to ask it. I got my answer and I'm quite sure you wouldn't give me the answer."
Ken looked at Omi and nodded. "He earned my trust. How about yours?"
"Earned mine. Rai san, Yokan kun?"
"He knows my answer to that." Aya had said and nodded towards Yoji.
"Just one more test. Shall we go outside?"
They moved and went outside and once out there Yoji uncoiled his wire. "Fight me."
Kurama transformed into his Youko form and took out his rose whip.
"Hit me with your best shot."
Yusuke and the others were currently in Gensai's temple talking about the people they saw in the mansion.
"Their spirit energy is different, they're not demons, nor are they humans." Yusuke said and turned to Kuwabara.
"They had fought as if they knew every move of the demons." He added and turned to Yusuke.
"Hiei what do you think?"
"We should wait for Kurama."
"Why?"
"There are thing only he can explain." With that he left the temple. When he was a reasonable distance from the temple he released an energy field and pounded his fist on the tree.
Yukiko had woken up at the sound of metal. There was only one explanation at that since Yokan and the others were already awake. She stood up and felt the numbness in her body, Yokan's work. She struggled to go out of the room and when she was out she headed for the cabin door. Her heart shouted for her to hurry but her body wasn't cooperating very well.
As if someone or something had not wanted her to get to them on time. By the time she was at the door she could smell blood. She threw the door open and the scene that greeted her made her heart skip and jump, Kurama and Yoji fighting it out. She held on to the door frame for support and shouted.
"Stop it!"
"Awww, but princess."
"I c-command it Yokan."
She looked at Kurama's state, trying hard not to cry. "Leave us." The four guardians were about to turn when Yukiko raised her hands to stop them.
"Not you, him." She felt her heart break a little. I' m sorry.
Kurama turned to go and before he disappeared Yokan shouted behind him. "You earned my trust little fox."
When Kurama had vanished in the shadows Yukiko had not stopped the tears as she fell on her knees crying. Omi was the first to be beside her. She wiped back her tears and looked at the four of them.
"You know very well that you're powers are more advanced and higher in level than the warriors of the spirit world. Why then did you engage him in battle. And him of all people Yokan."
"He needs to prove he is worthy and able to protect you. Just as we have proven that we can protect you."
"And the reason for this is?"
"Your soul and his has bonded. With that it means he shares half of your soul and maybe even your powers."
"If he wants to keep you safe from the demons of Subete..."
"He must be able to get pass the four of us..."
"Unharmed and well enough to care for you afterwards."
Yukiko looked at the four guardians who had protected her for decades. "Your actions had been justified. But did it ever occur to any of you that you are asking for the impossible even for a Cerenian?"
"It did princess but to have you is also impossible. So if he was able to capture you then he will be able to overcome our trials. He has too." Aya had said as he turned away from the gazing eyes of Yukiko.
"Teach me again."
"To fight?"
"You know enough already."
"No if I am going against my father I need to fight him like you would a hundred demons."
"And Kurama?"
"For me to learn... I need to learn... and for me to learn he must not know, he must not see. There's no room for tears or love in this war. I must learn to protect myself, I can't always depend on you or on him."
"As you wish princess." Aya had nodded and touched his left shoulder then his temple and then his chest just as he touched his chest he kneeled in front of Yukiko. Yoji, Ken and Omi followed Aya and did the same. Yukiko bowed to them and turned away. There's no room for love or tears. Subete needs me.
Kurama pounded his fists on the trees that were on his way. He kicked one so hard it fell and it reminded him of the time they met.
Flash Back
He had not known what was with her eyes but he was captivated and seem to want to know her more. He had agreed to take her to her mother's grave and he had even tried her. One night when they were resting he had crept up to her and attacked her. She had instantly changed into a Youko and faced him.
"Give me your best shot."
He had punched, kicked and threw her everything he had got and she was able to evade most of them, most but not all. Most of the things she had evaded were the minor ones and the major ones had hit dead target. The forest that was around them were reduced to nothing when their attacks missed or collided. She was strong but not strong enough to defeat him, she also had too much injuries to summon enough power to stop him.
She was getting weak and in her last bit of effort she tried to deliver a wind attack but she suddenly fell into his arms because he was in front of her. He had not any choice then but to look into her eyes. He was trapped in the silver globes and had taken almost all his will to turn away. But the attraction of her eyes brought him back to her and he looked into her eyes longingly.
"Why do you not attack?"
"There's no need for me too."
"You had not yet defeated me or won as of yet."
She had pulled away and took a flower from her hair. Petals danced around her and she had shouted, "Petal dance." Before the petals could come close to him he jumped and took the girl into his arms and kissed her on the lips. She had tried to fight and pull away but she was weak and injured. She was easily overpowered by the Youko. He pulled her closer into his arms and had not meant to let her go. When she finally gave in and returned Kurama's kiss and caresses Kurama had found that he could not let her leave him for long.
End of Flash Back
He could still remember those kisses and those caresses, there was nothing in that world that had stopped him from remembering and relishing those moments with her, nothing from Subete had stopped him from loving and finding her. Even in the festival he wasn't able to stop the beat of his heart for her especially under the tree's glow.
Flash Back
Yukiko looked up and waited fro the last drum as Kurama looked at her. Her kimono complemented her greatly especially the design on the hem. The fox features had reminded him of the times of old and golden. She definitely looked beautiful even at the play. He had felt it, the bond in her but she did not seem to know or remember. He tried to hold back but he still found himself longing for her lips and her warmth. He leaned to kiss her...
End of Flash Back
However, all he could feel now was hurt and pain in his heart. It was as if one of them was trying to go against the promise and the bond. He knew she could feel it too, their souls had bonded in the highest degree even for a demon or a Youko and even worlds weren't able to keep them apart. But he also knew she was doing all this pain for something she would not let him know. He smiled to himself none the less and repeated his spoken promise.
"I will find you whatever happens."
"I'm not giving up."
He looked up at the moon and smiled. "You heard me! I'm not giving up!"
"Ahhh..."
"Again!" Aya commanded and positioned his sword. Omi reluctantly did the same with his dart as did Ken and Yoji.
"Fire sword."
"Air strike."
"Water daggers."
"Lightning flashes."
Yukiko blocked Aya's sword with her sword, she caught the darts and evaded the daggers, she threw the darts towards a tree and let the wire wrap around on her sword. The electricity went through the sword going through her. She closed her eyes and focused her energies into dissipating the lightning. When she was able to do it she fell on her knees, using the sword to help her support herself.
"Good."
"Don't you think it was a little too much Rai san?" Omi said as he went beside Yukiko to check if she was all right. Yukiko stood up and turned to Aya.
"You were holding back."
"We have to hold back Yuko."
"Don't do that. I have to learn. The harder the better."
"But Yuko chan you're not used to things like this."
"The chibi's right neko. We can't take this all at once. Step by step."
"No... I can't stop..."
"Yes we will stop. Momi, Kenren, Yokan we need to talk. Princess you have to rest. Please go and sleep now."
Yukiko stubbornly stood there looking at the four of them. Yoji inched towards her to deliver another shock but found the sword tip on his throat.
"Answer me one thing Rairan."
"What is it princess?"
"Was that man really Kurama?"
"As much as I know the Youko? Yes princess I'm quite convinced, that was Kurama."
"Then why did he not tell me?"
"The same reason you have not told him." Aya nodded to Yoji and he in turn sent electricity through her body.
"Good night princess."
Blood
Aya and the others had scouted the place for the mansion they were suppose to raid. From Omi's calculation, from the cabin they were in it was only a few kilometers due northeast. They had been walking for 30 minutes now and there was still no sight of cameras or any security devices. Aya was getting irritated.
"Omi are we there yet?" That would have been Yoji. There were only a few things around the place that was strange and it had not bothered any of them until Aya saw the only thing that could make this mission fail. He stopped and everyone stopped as well.
"We're heading back."
"But we are here already. Can't we just continue it?"
"We need to head back. Now!" He turned to the other direction and the others followed him. They were just walking for a few minutes when Aya felt the ground give way under him and they had all fallen down.
"Wow. The view here is great!" Yukiko said as she turned back to see Kurama just coming up the slope.
"Look Minamino kun there's the beach we are heading too in a few days." Kurama had reached her side and saw the beach she was pointing at. Keiko and Yukina would love to go there... He thought as he turned to Yukiko and saw some of her hair falling towards her eyes. He reached to tuck it in and when he touched her hair Yukiko seemed to tense and look at him.
"Don't worry I'm not going to harm you."
"It's not that. They're in trouble." She turned towards the forest and ran towards that direction.
"Yukiko wait up." Kurama ran to catch up on her and when the path had grown harder to follow he jumped to the trees and followed her from up there. He watched as she ran to a direction he could not see and the path seems to just stretch barren for her. Then when he saw the cliff she was heading too he jumped in front of her to stop her.
"Yukiko there's a cliff up ahead."
"I have to help them Minamino kun."
"Wait here I'll go look."
He slowly made his way towards the cliff and bent down to look. He saw four guys unconscious a few feet below them on a ledge. He recognized the red hair and the golden hair of Aya and Yoji. He turned to Yukiko and told her what he saw.
"I don't know how they ended up there but I want you to stay here, I'm going to get some vines and make a rope. Don't go to the edge I'll be back soon." He sped into the forest and took some seeds from his hair. He channeled some energy into them and they grew into vines. He coiled them in his hands and went back to Yukiko.
When he got there Yukiko was tying a long piece of vine on a large tree. She looked towards Kurama. "Sorry I found some vines too and thought to start tying them to this tree." Kurama nodded and tied the vines he had on the ones she found. When he touched the vines he could feel the residue of power in them and looking at Yukiko she did seem a little tired.
"Stay here I'll go down and help them up."
"Okay." She managed to say before falling under the tree in exhaustion.
Kurama tied the end of the vine on his waist and slowly descended the ridge. When he got to them he shook Omi awake and with him they tried to wake up the others. They had managed to wake up Yoji and Ken but Aya had fallen and hit his head on one of the rocks. Kurama had been afraid that the ledge was going to give way so he gave Omi the vine.
"Climb up I'll take care of him. Yukiko is waiting at the top."
Omi had climbed the vine as Kurama persistently shook Aya. Ken was next and then Yoji. Kurama had looked at the faces of the people at the top.
"He won't wake up." He had shouted and when he looked up again Yukiko was coming down.
"Yukiko come back up here." Ken had shouted.
"Yukiko chan listen to us you can't do anything."
Yukiko was now beside Kurama. "What do you think are you doing?" Kurama had told her.
"Saving someone who had saved me before."
"Go back up there. I'll bring him up."
"No you go up. You have done all you can do Minamino kun let me handle this."
The ledge was about to collapse and with hesitation Kurama grabbed the vine and went up. Yukiko upon seeing Kurama going up kneeled beside Aya and looked at him. She touched his head and found blood. I thought so... She placed her hand on his temple and channeled some of her energy to him. The wound disappeared but he was still unconscious. She felt the vine beside her and she tied it around Aya's waist and shouted up,
"Pull him up I'll go after him."
"Yukiko chan that would be dangerous the ledge is about to collapse."
At that moment she felt the ledge move. "I'll be all right."
"Aya will kill us if he found out."
"He won't! Come on pull him up he really needs to get some medicine."
So they pulled him up slowly. They were untying the knot on his waist when they heard a scream. They scrambled to look at the ledge but there was none anymore.
"Yukiko chan!" They called in unison but there was no answer. Just then Aya had stirred.
"What's going on?"
"Yukiko's down there."
Aya had looked at the cliff and remembered how they ended up there. "Why is she there?" So they reluctantly told him what had happened. After that he grabbed Kurama's shirt and was about to punch him when a voice broke through the silence.
"Tasukete!" (Help!)
"Yukiko chan?"
"Will you guys throw the vine already; I'm really getting tired holding on here."
They all looked down the cliff and found Yukiko holding unto some rocks. "Hold on." Kurama had said and threw the vine towards her. When she was about to grab the vine the rocks moved and she slipped.
"Yukiko chan!"
Ken had been watching on the edge the whole time and for some reason he remembered something. It had been the same thing. She was holding on for life and all he could do was watch. He was one of the most powerful and yet he was only able to watch. That was why he was taken out of the unit and why he had been sent to Exile. If only he was able to do something, anything to help her. When Yukiko had slipped and was not able to get the vine his heart had jumped. He wasn't going to let it happen again. He saw Yukiko hold on to some more rocks and was quite out of reach of the vine. He turned to Aya and Kurama.
"Hold on to the vine I'm going after her."
With that he pulled the vine to him and tied the end to his feet. After that he looked at the guys and jumped into the cliff.
"Ken kun!" Omi had shouted but he saw the gleam in his eyes. He knew Kenren was awake.
Ken had dived into the cliff and as the vine pulled him back he was just level to Yukiko's hands. "Yukiko grab my hand." Yukiko turned and looked at Ken.
"Kenren..."
Ken smiled and nodded. "Come princess everyone's waiting up there." She nodded and took Ken's hands.
"Aya kun pull us up."
They seem to rise slowly and as they were rising Aya saw that the vine was slowly being cut. With the bit of strength he had he pulled the vine to him and shouted,
"Ken the vine won't take the pressure anymore. If you can swing her to the edge and grab unto to it too, do it."
Ken had heard Aya and smiled at Yukiko. "You heard him. You can do it just imagine you're in training." He swung her to the ledge and grabbed the edge as well just as the vine gave away. Kurama hurried to Yukiko's aid and Omi to Ken. Kurama pulled Yukiko to him and she landed on his body. Kurama embraced Yukiko and caressed her hair. Yukiko felt at ease in his arms and she closed her eyes relishing the touch.
"Don't you ever do that again."
"If I can help it I won't."
Kurama continued to caress her hair just as Omi tapped them on the shoulder.
"Come on we need to head back."
Kurama stood up and offered his hand to her. She accepted and stood up as well.
They were heading back to the cabin to change when they had taken a wrong turn and ended up in a wet place. Yukiko saw caterpillars, snakes and even slugs but then there was a moving slimy thing on one of the trees that fell on the moss covered ground. She ignored it and continued to walk. She slipped once but Kurama had helped her up. Since then he had taken her hand and guided her.
They had stopped to check if they were going the right way and Yukiko had looked down and saw the slimy creatures slowly making their way across the moss. Kurama was beside her and looked at her thoughtfully.
"What are you looking at?"
"I dunno. What are these things?"
"Oh those black slimy things?"
"Yeah. What are they?"
"They're leeches."
"Leeches? What are leeches?"
"They are slimy creatures that live in forests. They are usually black or any dark color. I wouldn't touch them of I were you."
"Why? What do they do?"
"They stick to your skin and suck your blood. They are hard to get off and they only disentangle themselves when they have enough blood to feed on."
At the mention of blood Yukiko drew her hand away and Aya looked at Yukiko. She had gone silent but not leaving her place at the ground. She seem to remember something then place her hands on her head.
"Yukiko what's wrong?"
Yukiko did not answer but instead lean away from the leeches.
"Yukiko? Yukiko?"
She had leaned towards Kurama too much that they both fell on the moss. Yukiko had curled up in Kurama's arms and mumble words he couldn't understand. She shook her head as Kurama tried to comfort her.
"Yukiko, don't worry everything will be all right."
He caressed her hair and hugged her turning her eyes away from the leeches. Aya, Omi and Ken had looked at each other then to the form of the girl in Kurama's arms.
"She lost it."
It had taken them 30 minutes to convince Yukiko that there was nothing scary about leeches and by that time it had gotten really dark and Kurama's pants were soaked and accumulated a nice moss green color. All the way back Kurama had Yukiko in his arms guiding her in the forest much to Aya's regret and relief.
When they had arrived in the cabin the bonfire had started and some of the students were looking for them. Omi had talked to the sensei and entered the cabin. Yukiko was still a little shaken and in Kurama's arms when he directed her to her room. When he was certain she was okay he went to his room to change. Meanwhile Omi, Ken and Aya was sitting on the chairs in the dining hall.
"So what do you think?"
"About Minamino or about Hime's reaction to leeches?" Omi had said to Ken as he was bandaging Aya's wrist.
"Both really."
"I haven't really known Kurama that much unless you consider Hime chan's stories so I'm not really sure what to make of Minamino but about the leeches I'm really surprised. She was never frightened of anything before."
"Unless you count the demons and the power hungry bastards who want her blood and her powers."
"But Aya no one knows about her capabilities, not in this world anyway."
"But demons brought her in this world, threatened her in a bloodied room, most probably the king's orders. That would really put a mark in her heart. To be blooded was to be her life and fate. She already escaped that but she never thought there would be some things that could take that back."
"And Kurama?"
"Yes it's true I have known the Youko and there are similarities in the human and the demon but I'm not yet sure."
"So are you going to just let them?"
"Only until we are sure that it's him."
"And Yokan?"
"He'll awaken... He has too."
"Aya, I was meaning to ask you. A while ago you turned back. Why?"
"Demons are patrolling. Only mean that the mansion is heavily protected. Not being prepared could mean death."
"And the cliff?"
"The demons' doing."
"So you're telling us that there are demons here and Yukiko is just walking around alone."
"Kurama won't let anything happen to her."
"We don't know if he is Kurama."
"Don't worry he'll protect her just the same."
Kurama had lain in his bed thinking of what had happened. Of course he remembered Yuko well, who wouldn't? The Cerenian features had not been one to be easily forgotten. White streaked wavy long hair, black fox ears and tail, markings on the face and the wings like an angel. Yukiko had possessed all of Yuko's characteristics that was why he was positive that Yukiko was Yuko. Even the flowers on her proved it, for only one person could have a flower live forever as long as it's in her touch. But what greatly puzzled him was that if she had remembered him why doesn't she know?
Is it because she has not seen me in Youko form yet? She has not connected the clues? Or is it because she has forgotten me and the promise? But that's impossible. A soul bonded could never be separated even in death. There's no way she could not remember. Unless she's not Yuko. Kurama stared at the ceiling and heard Yukiko mumble words that was incoherent. He turned to his side and looked out the window. The sun had set but there was still some light outside. He pulled his jacket from the chair and jumped out of the window. There was only one way to calm his nerves. He entered the forest and found a clearing where he trained with his plants in Youko form.
They were all sleeping that night when Aya had woken up to get a glass of water. He made his way towards the door when he heard some movement in the other room. He stopped and listened but there was no more sound. He opened the door just as Kurama open his as well.
"Did you hear that?"
"Only some movement nothing else. Why?"
"Nothing I must be hallucinating."
"Join me for tea?"
Kurama thought nothing wrong about it nodded and followed Aya down the stairs into the kitchenette.
"Do you know anything about demons?"
"Not much but I think I know enough." Kurama had cautiously hidden his powers as he sat down on one of the chairs.
"Do you know anything about a place called Subete?"
"Subete?"
"I guess not." Aya had his back turned to Kurama and when he turned around he handed him a mug. There had been a few minutes of silence until Aya looked at him straight in the eye.
"Don't play dumb with me Shuuichi Minamino."
"What are you talking about?"
"I know you were the one who helped us a few weeks ago. You were the one who wielded that rose whip and killed that demon in the school grounds and I know that you know more than you let out."
Kurama sipped the tea in the mug before answering Aya. "True I am the one and you haven't been very truthful either. You're powers are unlike those of the demons or any human in this world though you look human enough. Who are you?"
"I was going to ask you the very same thing."
They both sipped their tea and silence passed between the two of them. "So who are you?"
"Rairan, guardian of the princess of the Dark realm, also known as Subete, and you might be?"
"Kurama from the spirit world, reincarnated in this world much like you, I believe." With those words Kurama changed into the Youko he was.
"Ah so you are the person we are trying to locate. And I was correct to assume you are him, the flowers are from you then?"
"You know about the flowers?"
"We are her most trusted friends." Aya smiled bitterly. "We are her only friends."
"So it is true that the Dark realm is collapsing with the spirit world?"
"The king had made deals with the metaworld, the world below as Koenma sama has put it. I am not as sure as I let on. Yuko sama is the only one who told me that. And you are one of the warriors the great Koenma has sent then? To find the princess?"
Kurama nodded and looked at the middle door. "I'm afraid we are. And my friends are the ones responsible for her scar and near fatal incident."
"So you knew who Yukiko was before you met her?"
"Souls that bonded never forget nor do they get separated for long. A wise man told me before. I knew the minute I saw her eyes, then at the play when we were doing a part and even under the tree."
"I'll pretend I didn't hear those lines and leave it at that agreed? So you remembered our meeting. How convenient."
"Yes but then you did not give me a name. Now you did, does it mean anything?"
"Only that you have gained my trust and soon the trust of my comrades."
There was glass shattering and Kurama and Aya stood up and climbed the stairs. They opened Yukiko's room only to find her missing the window shattered.
"Wake the others I'll follow them. My plants will show you the way."
"There's no need. She's wearing the earring, we'll find her."
Aya went to the other room to wake the others while Kurama followed the demon that took Yukiko. He wasn't able to ask his question and that made him a little irritated. He growled and increased his speed to catch up with the demon.
Omi had pulled the tracker out of his backpack and ran after Aya. Yuko was kidnapped and there was no way they were not going to be prepared to fight the king if they had too.
"Ken bring those seed you found in the closet. She might need it." Omi said as Ken was surveying the window frame.
"Yoji kun there's a dart in the closet with the color of light blue. Get it and place it in a plastic bag." Omi turned to Aya who was channeling his energy to finding the demon who took Yuko.
"Aya kun we are ready. Find them yet?"
"Yeah they're going northeast, the direction of the mansion."
"Oh great..."
Yukiko woke up in a dark room, her hands and feet were tied with an energy rope, something she could not break or get free. Her mouth was free but her throat was chained to a post. There was a rusty taste in her mouth. She ignored it and tried to stand. She found that the chain was long enough for her to hop to the window and see where she was. It was still dark outside and she could not make out what was around the room and what was making the smell that was invading her nose.
She had a hard time hopping since she could feel the sleek feel of something on the floor. There was also the sleek feel on her hands and body. The thing that was on her body had made her hair stick to her face and her scalp. It had felt uncomfortable but she ignored it. All she was focusing on was to get to the window to know where she was.
What could this be? She had thought since it would not make her mind think of anything else. The smell seemed familiar to her and she strained to remember what it was. She was about to say it when she reached the window and the light from the moon made her see that she was in a room filled with and she was covered in...
"Blood..."
She tried not to scream but the thought was too much for her that she screamed and screamed until her throat was sore and she was exhausted. She didn't notice when she had fallen to the floor but she found herself tasting, smelling the cursed thing and it was around her. She could not escape the feel, taste or sight of blood. Her screams filled the forest and the mansion and outside the mansion about a few meters away Kurama and the others heard her screams of terror which made them work faster in getting to her.
"Aya we can't just enter without knowing where she is."
"I won't be able to wait any longer."
Yoji held Aya back. "You can't go Aya. Yukiko won't be in any danger as of yet." Aya pulled his arm away and looked at Yoji.
"You have no authority over me."
"Yes I do."
"Shut up."
Yoji punched Aya on the face just as Kurama came back from searching the grounds.
"I found her... What's going on here?"
"Aya Yoji stop this."
Another scream filled the forest air and Yoji looked at Aya thoughtfully.
"Don't you remember you made me promise to knock some sense into you if you got out of character Rairan?"
"How did you know?"
"I never forgot... I don't know why but I never forgot who we were and what we were suppose to do. The day she came to the shop I knew who she was and why she was here. I don't like the idea of her being locked up that mansion but we can't just attack without planning our moves. Remember what happened the last time? We got sent to Exile!"
"Yoji kun calm down." Omi pleaded as he continued to type on his laptop.
Aya took a deep breath and sighed. "He's right. I did make him promise."
"So would you like to know where she is?"
"Where?" Ken had asked as he turned away from the gates.
"Last floor up. She's locked up in a room full of blood. I'm not sure if it's an illusion or the real thing but everything is dripping with blood even her."
"That explains the screams. Anything that may cook up trouble?"
"No my friends are battling the demons inside. All we need to do is get to the floor and get her out from there."
"You're friends? What are they doing here?"
"A mission from the spirit world. Seems like the owner are training demons for an up coming battle in Subete. I bumped into Yusuke a while ago and told me what was happening."
"How could that be? Only one person can call battles like that and only one person can invite people from..." Ken became silent and looked at the others. "We need to get her out of there."
"Agreed."
They rushed to the entrance and up the stairs. When they got to the last floor a tall brick wall was greeting them. Kurama felt his way through it but found none. Aya knocked on the wall and found it real. He looked at Omi and Ken.
"We won't be able to blast our way through."
"How about Yoji?"
"I can try but you know we haven't used these things for a while we can't just use them and expect results."
"We have no choice at the matter Yoji kun. Do it."
Kurama and the others stood back just as Yoji gathered a ball of lightning in his hands. He looked for a weak spot and finding it he threw the ball towards it. The wall crumbled to reveal a door. Kurama tried the knob but it was locked he pulled a pin from his hair and started picking the lock. Once he heard the desired sound he stood back and kicked the door open. He dropped his Youko form and went to Yukiko who was in a shadowed corner, her eyes closed and crying.
Aya looked around the room and frowned. Omi blew the window away with a wind attack and Ken washed the bloodied room with a rain shower. Lastly they all turned to Yukiko who was still covered in blood and worse, it was blood from destroyed demons. Ken looked at Omi, Aya and Yoji, he then whispered a soft chant. He opened his hands and the blood was washed away from her. Omi closed his eyes and brought a gentle breeze to dry Yukiko. That done Kurama took hold of the energy chains and broke them while Aya broke the chains on her neck.
Yukiko opened her tear stained eyes and saw Kurama looking at her. "Yukiko are you all right?" Yukiko threw her arms around Kurama and cried new tears. Kurama sighed in relief and gratitude. He caressed her hair and hugged her tenderly.
"I'd hate to break this wonderful scene but we really need to get the hell out of here."
"Kurama take Yukiko out of here and back to the cabin. We need to finish something here."
"Kurama?"
"Yukiko that's not important right now. You have to rest." Yoji said as he sent a slight electricity through her body to paralyze her and patted her on the head. "Don't worry neko we'll protect you we will always protect you."
Kurama looked at them and tried to ask something but Aya raised his hand. "It's not important. Bring her to safety, you need to bring her to safety." After that they left pulling out their weapons and looking at each other.
"Ready?"
"Ready as we'll ever be Rairan."
Aya had looked at the room once again and left it. Kurama had jumped out from the window and left. Aya and the others went down to the basement and opened the first and only door there was. They found four demons and three other figures in the room.
"Ah I see the guardians have decided to join our little party."
"You will pay for the kidnapping and the suffering you have given our princess." Omi had started, raising his darts to eye level.
"Through the crest and oath the guardians of Subete had made..." Ken said revealing his bugnuk.
"We pledge and vow..." Yoji uncoiled his wires little sparks of electricity running through it.
"You will pay and die." Aya had unsheathed his katana and positioned it in front of him.
The four demons looked at the four figures and then the three. They decided to go for the four and attacked them. Aya went to the left as Yoji went to the right, Ken went straight forward and Omi stayed where he was. The demons also separated giving room for the elements to do their worst.
"Fire sword." Aya commanded and his katana blazed with fire engulfing the demon and part of the room in fire. The three other figures evaded the attack. Yoji had his captive wrapped in wires and sending electricity in his body. "This is no fun."
He had said as the demon slumped into the floor, dead. Ken had sliced the demon and washed it's blood into the wall. "Piece of cake." He turned to Omi who had the demon pinned to the wall as it slowly deteriorated and became wasted. "Done."
Aya forcefully swished his sword to the side sending some sparks to the floor and turned to the other figures. "Thank you for keeping the demons company. We'll ignore the fact you tried to kill our princess. Send our regards to Koenma sama."
"And thanks for your help. Hopefully we wouldn't be of need it in the near future." Yoji finished for Aya and they went out of the room, vanishing into the shadows.
Kurama had stayed with Yukiko since they arrived from the mansion. He had debated if he was going to tell her the truth or just wait for Aya to tell her all the things that had happened. He had held her hand for the whole time and to him it was the best thing he could do for now. He had felt the pain in his heart but he was able to hide it from everyone. As of now the only thing he could feel was comfort and relief that was good enough for him.
He heard the door open and he knew they were back. He did not want to leave her side so he waited for Aya and the others to enter the room and tell him what happened. As he had thought Aya opened the door and looked at him. He had mouthed the words "leave her" and closed the door again. He was hesitant but he needed to know what was going on and what will happen to them after. He kissed her hand and placed it on her stomach. He felt the longing but he knew it would not be for long.
When he came out of the door three darts flew past his face. When he turned four pairs of eyes watched him descend and sit with them. He looked at them one at a time and the spirit energy he had felt before had soared incredibly high. There were gleams in their eyes that he could not explain. He turned to Aya and nodded.
"Nice to know I'm welcome."
"So this is Kurama." Yoji said as he lighted a cigar that Omi extinguished with a snap of his fingers.
"I thought he was a Youko." Omi said as he pulled the cigar out of Yoji's mouth and threw it in the trash bag.
"He is... If you guys have not seen he was the same Youko that was with us at the mansion." Ken answered with a nod.
"Please stop talking about me as if I am not in this room with you."
"Forgive us. We are just a little skeptical."
"That's one way to put it chibi."
"What do you wish to know Kurama?"
"You're names would be a good start... You're real names."
"Rairan Tzu. Fujimiya Ran, also Aya."
"Yokan Zen. Known to the girls as Kodou Yoji."
"Kenren Tei. Was known as Hidaka Ken."
"And Mamomi Feng. Was formerly known as Tsukiyono Omi."
"And from what I had heard you are the guardians of Yuko, the princess of Subete? The four guys that was sent to this world as Exile and protectors of the gate."
"Rairan he's good." Yoji commented as he sent electricity on the table towards Kurama, Aya pulled his katana and placed it in the path, the blade absorbing the shock.
"This is no time to play around. If we are correct Subete is in real danger and the spirit world is going to collapse in a matter of days. We will be going against our vows and our honor."
"You don't have to sound so melodramatic Rairan." His sword went to the speakers throat namely Yoji.
"So what is the whole deal with Subete?"
"Kurama, the only way to destroy Subete is if the princess die. The only way to Subete is through the princess. To take access and control the princess must be eliminated and to do all of those in one quick move is if Subete will host a tournament."
"And that was what the mansion in the forest is for. To train demons to fight in the tournament."
"Exactly."
"You talk as if your a lot older than what you look like."
"That is because I am older than Omi is."
"Let's stop this playing around and ask your question Kurama we can all sense it."
Kurama turned to Aya and smiled. "You clearly know more about me than you guys would let me see."
"The princess is a great story teller. And Cerenians could see anything from a person's mind only by touch."
"There is another question you wish to ask."
"There is but there's no need to ask it. I got my answer and I'm quite sure you wouldn't give me the answer."
Ken looked at Omi and nodded. "He earned my trust. How about yours?"
"Earned mine. Rai san, Yokan kun?"
"He knows my answer to that." Aya had said and nodded towards Yoji.
"Just one more test. Shall we go outside?"
They moved and went outside and once out there Yoji uncoiled his wire. "Fight me."
Kurama transformed into his Youko form and took out his rose whip.
"Hit me with your best shot."
Yusuke and the others were currently in Gensai's temple talking about the people they saw in the mansion.
"Their spirit energy is different, they're not demons, nor are they humans." Yusuke said and turned to Kuwabara.
"They had fought as if they knew every move of the demons." He added and turned to Yusuke.
"Hiei what do you think?"
"We should wait for Kurama."
"Why?"
"There are thing only he can explain." With that he left the temple. When he was a reasonable distance from the temple he released an energy field and pounded his fist on the tree.
Yukiko had woken up at the sound of metal. There was only one explanation at that since Yokan and the others were already awake. She stood up and felt the numbness in her body, Yokan's work. She struggled to go out of the room and when she was out she headed for the cabin door. Her heart shouted for her to hurry but her body wasn't cooperating very well.
As if someone or something had not wanted her to get to them on time. By the time she was at the door she could smell blood. She threw the door open and the scene that greeted her made her heart skip and jump, Kurama and Yoji fighting it out. She held on to the door frame for support and shouted.
"Stop it!"
"Awww, but princess."
"I c-command it Yokan."
She looked at Kurama's state, trying hard not to cry. "Leave us." The four guardians were about to turn when Yukiko raised her hands to stop them.
"Not you, him." She felt her heart break a little. I' m sorry.
Kurama turned to go and before he disappeared Yokan shouted behind him. "You earned my trust little fox."
When Kurama had vanished in the shadows Yukiko had not stopped the tears as she fell on her knees crying. Omi was the first to be beside her. She wiped back her tears and looked at the four of them.
"You know very well that you're powers are more advanced and higher in level than the warriors of the spirit world. Why then did you engage him in battle. And him of all people Yokan."
"He needs to prove he is worthy and able to protect you. Just as we have proven that we can protect you."
"And the reason for this is?"
"Your soul and his has bonded. With that it means he shares half of your soul and maybe even your powers."
"If he wants to keep you safe from the demons of Subete..."
"He must be able to get pass the four of us..."
"Unharmed and well enough to care for you afterwards."
Yukiko looked at the four guardians who had protected her for decades. "Your actions had been justified. But did it ever occur to any of you that you are asking for the impossible even for a Cerenian?"
"It did princess but to have you is also impossible. So if he was able to capture you then he will be able to overcome our trials. He has too." Aya had said as he turned away from the gazing eyes of Yukiko.
"Teach me again."
"To fight?"
"You know enough already."
"No if I am going against my father I need to fight him like you would a hundred demons."
"And Kurama?"
"For me to learn... I need to learn... and for me to learn he must not know, he must not see. There's no room for tears or love in this war. I must learn to protect myself, I can't always depend on you or on him."
"As you wish princess." Aya had nodded and touched his left shoulder then his temple and then his chest just as he touched his chest he kneeled in front of Yukiko. Yoji, Ken and Omi followed Aya and did the same. Yukiko bowed to them and turned away. There's no room for love or tears. Subete needs me.
Kurama pounded his fists on the trees that were on his way. He kicked one so hard it fell and it reminded him of the time they met.
Flash Back
He had not known what was with her eyes but he was captivated and seem to want to know her more. He had agreed to take her to her mother's grave and he had even tried her. One night when they were resting he had crept up to her and attacked her. She had instantly changed into a Youko and faced him.
"Give me your best shot."
He had punched, kicked and threw her everything he had got and she was able to evade most of them, most but not all. Most of the things she had evaded were the minor ones and the major ones had hit dead target. The forest that was around them were reduced to nothing when their attacks missed or collided. She was strong but not strong enough to defeat him, she also had too much injuries to summon enough power to stop him.
She was getting weak and in her last bit of effort she tried to deliver a wind attack but she suddenly fell into his arms because he was in front of her. He had not any choice then but to look into her eyes. He was trapped in the silver globes and had taken almost all his will to turn away. But the attraction of her eyes brought him back to her and he looked into her eyes longingly.
"Why do you not attack?"
"There's no need for me too."
"You had not yet defeated me or won as of yet."
She had pulled away and took a flower from her hair. Petals danced around her and she had shouted, "Petal dance." Before the petals could come close to him he jumped and took the girl into his arms and kissed her on the lips. She had tried to fight and pull away but she was weak and injured. She was easily overpowered by the Youko. He pulled her closer into his arms and had not meant to let her go. When she finally gave in and returned Kurama's kiss and caresses Kurama had found that he could not let her leave him for long.
End of Flash Back
He could still remember those kisses and those caresses, there was nothing in that world that had stopped him from remembering and relishing those moments with her, nothing from Subete had stopped him from loving and finding her. Even in the festival he wasn't able to stop the beat of his heart for her especially under the tree's glow.
Flash Back
Yukiko looked up and waited fro the last drum as Kurama looked at her. Her kimono complemented her greatly especially the design on the hem. The fox features had reminded him of the times of old and golden. She definitely looked beautiful even at the play. He had felt it, the bond in her but she did not seem to know or remember. He tried to hold back but he still found himself longing for her lips and her warmth. He leaned to kiss her...
End of Flash Back
However, all he could feel now was hurt and pain in his heart. It was as if one of them was trying to go against the promise and the bond. He knew she could feel it too, their souls had bonded in the highest degree even for a demon or a Youko and even worlds weren't able to keep them apart. But he also knew she was doing all this pain for something she would not let him know. He smiled to himself none the less and repeated his spoken promise.
"I will find you whatever happens."
"I'm not giving up."
He looked up at the moon and smiled. "You heard me! I'm not giving up!"
"Ahhh..."
"Again!" Aya commanded and positioned his sword. Omi reluctantly did the same with his dart as did Ken and Yoji.
"Fire sword."
"Air strike."
"Water daggers."
"Lightning flashes."
Yukiko blocked Aya's sword with her sword, she caught the darts and evaded the daggers, she threw the darts towards a tree and let the wire wrap around on her sword. The electricity went through the sword going through her. She closed her eyes and focused her energies into dissipating the lightning. When she was able to do it she fell on her knees, using the sword to help her support herself.
"Good."
"Don't you think it was a little too much Rai san?" Omi said as he went beside Yukiko to check if she was all right. Yukiko stood up and turned to Aya.
"You were holding back."
"We have to hold back Yuko."
"Don't do that. I have to learn. The harder the better."
"But Yuko chan you're not used to things like this."
"The chibi's right neko. We can't take this all at once. Step by step."
"No... I can't stop..."
"Yes we will stop. Momi, Kenren, Yokan we need to talk. Princess you have to rest. Please go and sleep now."
Yukiko stubbornly stood there looking at the four of them. Yoji inched towards her to deliver another shock but found the sword tip on his throat.
"Answer me one thing Rairan."
"What is it princess?"
"Was that man really Kurama?"
"As much as I know the Youko? Yes princess I'm quite convinced, that was Kurama."
"Then why did he not tell me?"
"The same reason you have not told him." Aya nodded to Yoji and he in turn sent electricity through her body.
"Good night princess."