Disclaimers- I still don't own Yuyu Hakusho or Weib Kruez but I still wish I do.
Blood
And yet...
And yet something was screaming that it wasn't too late.
There was still time.
Kathrin was losing the battle even though something inside kept screaming that she should not stop. She should not let go of the thing she held in Yuko's heart. However how much she would like to hold on there was little or no more strength in her to bear the extreme pain and the anguish her mind was taking. The other guardians were busy training the others and even Aya could not stop what was happening. Yuko was slipping away from her grasp. Kathrin could not and would not take that, she was going to hang on as long as she can for her friend.
They felt something wrong, the sound of someone injured echoed clearly in their ears but it also brought the warning of the fates, the warning of a trial as well as hate. They hesitated. They would not go against the fates but they could not also go against their vows... It was a decision they had to make, and either way they would seem to lose but they were saved when someone else saved the injured person, someone not bound by the laws of Subete, they were not under the threads of fate. They sighed in relief. They were saved. The blue forest echoed this relief and seems to send waves of hope inside its territory. Only if they could escape...
Pain
Hatred
Pain
Hatred
It was the only things echoing in his head. It was deafening how they echoed and pounded in his head and would not stop. He swam in the darkness that was around him. There was nothing in that emptiness but the voices from afar that seem to call him. But then they also fade away.
Is this death?
Or hell?
Is this what I have become?
Then there was pain enveloping him in anguish. And the abstract sounds of the things around him, blurring from his ears. Exhaustion, it was named. He relaxed when the pain subsided.
Pain delivers life... Does that mean I live?
Illusions also deliver death...
Something snapped in him at made him open his eyes and sat up from where he was lying. He looked around the room and found himself in the same room he was in before he went to Yuna. He looked down at himself and found that he was still in one piece. He turned to his side and saw Yuko sleeping peacefully on the other bed. He sighed and stood up from the bed he was in and went towards Yuko's side. When he touched her hand Yuko's eyes opened and she turned towards him.
"You came back..."
"Of course I came back what do you think I was going to do? Leave you to die here?"
"I'm glad you can join us..."
The voice was familiar; he turned and saw the same lady he had been seeing inside his oblivion. The same lady that held those sad, tired golden eyes. There was only one thing that could explain it.
"Yuna..."
"No, I am not Yuna. I may look like my mother but believe me you can't make her go out of her forest, even if it burned down to the ground."
"Then who..."
Before he could finish his sentence the lady shifted and changed into the girl he came to know as the shifter. Yuko held his hand tightly and nodded towards the girl. He could not explain but there was something from the girl that made him feel relief and yet worry.
"Kathrin, it's been a while since you turned to your real form."
"It was needed, the evil was growing and to stop it from growing more I had to change back."
"Everything all right now?"
"You're awake, he's awake. I guess so."
"Not exactly."
They both turned to Kurama and looked at him confused.
"What do you mean?"
"Yuna told me to warn you that the trackers are slowly approaching us. They are slowly breaking the protection of the Blue forest. We must escape."
"So it is true then what the creatures had told me. The Blue forest is weakening for some reason."
"We have to escape then Kathrin. Call the others; it's a whole night's travel to the hotel we are staying. We need to leave tonight."
"But you're not yet well. You still need to recover. And do you think the hotel would accompany us when there's still a month's time before the tournament?"
"Don't worry about me Kurama, We must get out of here before the forest collapses. And the hotel, that could be easily arranged. Kathrin, please."
"As you wish princess. I'll get them to be ready in an hour, enough time for you to pack and get ready."
"Thank you."
As Kathrin left the room Yuko turned to Kurama and saw those worried eyes looking straight into her. Something was certainly different but it was not evil or bad. There was something else too and yet it did not worry her, not much. Yuna had done all she could, it was now just up to Kurama if he was going to accept. Yuko smiled towards him and caressed his cheeks, they felt warm to the touch and Yuko smiled even more. Kurama helped her sit up from the bed and sat beside her, he pulled her closer to him and Yuko could hear the steady beat of his heart. She closed her eyes listening to the message his heart was sending. It was solemn and yet held joy, it was blurred and Yuko knew the fight inside him was still going on. She contented herself in his arms.
Kurama was quite content on holding her in his arms and feeling the warmth they seem to share. He snuggled closer to her, burying his face in her hair, letting its fragrance send him to another place. He kissed her nape and then the side of her neck; Yuko had not moved but the smile on her lips was enough for Kurama to get the idea. Kurama smiled to himself and licked the side of her neck, growling softly at the same time. Yuko moved her head to a position where she is looking at Kurama and smiled up to him. Kurama then let his nose pass a couple of times on hers before pecking it and kissing her lips. The sensation that enveloped Kurama was nothing he had ever experienced before and it had taken all his will power to push her gently and look into her eyes.
He was about to say something when Yuko placed her index finger on his lips. She smiled and shook her head. There were no more need for words, her eyes seem to say and Kurama accepted that. Yuko pulled her finger away and rested her head on his chest and closed her eyes. It had been so long since the last time she had been this relaxed. And it had been so long since he had felt this calm. They both took that moment as paradise and anticipated the fact that it might never happen again...
"Kuwabara find your opponent's weakness then attack."
"Yusuke don't mind what's going on around you just focus on the task at hand."
Kathrin heard those orders before, different names but still the same and it made her smile. She made her way to the field they had made into their training ground and saw Yusuke sparing with Ken, Kuwabara with Yoji and Aya with Hiei while Omi was noting down their improvements and failures. Momi had always been good at that, he was always so observant. Kathrin thought as she made her way towards them. A blue energy ball was heading her way and she just batted it aside causing Yusuke, Kuwabara and Hiei to lose concentration and be sent towards the trees. Kathrin sighed and headed for Aya.
"Yuko's awake as well as Kurama. They just woke up. Kurama brought news from Yuna..."
She watched as they crowded around her and Momi looking at the injuries of the three.
"What did Yuna bring?"
"We have a problem Rairan, the trackers are closing in. Yuna said that they are finding the weakness of the forest and that we must escape as soon as possible."
"This is three days ago, whatever had happened then... Even if we try to escape the trackers could be just outside the forest."
"Exactly Kenren that's why Yuko had told me to inform you that we are leaving tonight; prepare what you can and meet us in the dining room in an hour's time, we need to see if we can escape together if not we have to break into groups."
"But what about Yuko, she just woke up, wouldn't it tire her again?"
"Sorry Yokan the princess said we need to leave. She would rather run than let the forest collapse."
They looked at each other much to the confusion of the three warriors. At the use of the proper title of Yuko they knew she had commanded it or rather pleaded for it. And at the use of that name they were bound to obey even if it endangered her so. They sighed and nodded.
"We'll see you in an hour then."
"I'm sorry guys but we can't..."
"We know Kathrin... We know..."
They turned to the three to explain what was going on as Kathrin went back to the house; Aya had followed her and went beside her.
"What are they doing now?"
"Most probably preparing for the trip ahead. Rairan wait!"
Kathrin grabbed Aya's hand to stop him from running.
"Let them do what they're supposed to do. You can't always let Yuko be protected under the care of the guardians."
"No but I can try. She's been hurt enough, don't you think it's time she become happy?"
"I know that but don't you think she's happy already just being with him? Rairan give them a chance."
With that Kathrin loosened her hold on Aya and walked back to the house, using the front door instead of the back. She was fixing her things when she heard the unmistakable sound of the healing room door open and close. She looked out her room and found Yuko and Kurama garbed in their cloaks and looking at each other intently. She smiled and finished her packing, clasping the cloak and locking the door to her room. She descended the stairs hurriedly and went to the dining room only to find Yuko and Kurama eating.
"Kathrin, like to join us?"
"No thanks Yuko. Found a way to escape yet?"
"Yup, I just need Rairan to say yes and everything would be fine."
"No."
They turned to the voice to find Rairan and the others coming into the room. Yuko sighed and looked at Rairan.
"Whatever you're planning I'm not approving it."
"But Rairan..."
"No."
"Fine then."
Yuko turned to Kathrin and shrugged. Kathrin smiled and pulled something from her pocket. She laid it out on the table and entrusted them to gather around.
"This is the map of Subete. This is the fastest route to the hotel you're staying at. It would take you approximately the whole night to get there if you leave in a few minutes. This is the safest route but it would take you two days to get to the hotel. The plan is to split up into two groups. Rairan and Kenren with Yusuke and Kuwabara can take the faster route while the rest the can the safer one. Rairan can lure the trackers to follow them while the other group can escape safely."
"But you have not included yourself Kathrin."
"I need to head to the Dark forest. I must seek advice and guidance from Yuna. And the moon would reach its gibbous phase in about a week, the ritual of the keepers is about to start. Yuko you know that I have to be there."
"Oh yeah... I heard Toma was going to follow Yuna."
"Yes but Toma isn't ready. That is the reason I must be there. And I need to see if I can get you some help from the fates. You are going to need it."
Yuko laughed and turned to Aya.
"You okay with this plan?"
"Yes but this can only work if we leave at intervals. We don't have that much time."
"We will make time then."
Just then the house seems to move from under them. Yuko looked worriedly at the others and stood up. She ran towards the front door followed by the others. She opened it and looked up; the sky was clouding and getting dark. She cursed softly and turned to the others. They knew what it meant and if they did not leave now they were doomed.
"Rairan?"
"Change of plans. We'll risk using the faster route."
They agreed on this and turned to get their belongings from the dining room. Acquiring them they headed for the back door and after the four guardians made sure it was safe, they headed for the edge of the forest. Upon getting there Aya turned to the group and spoke softly.
"The trackers are just beyond these trees. Momi can create a path with his wind, Kenren will create a wall around that path so you can pass clearly and Yokan and I will hold them to give you enough time to escape."
The others nodded and Omi positioned himself at the edge of the forest, near enough to deliver a powerful attack but far enough to hide himself with the help of the trees. Ken was beside him and started gathering energy; Omi closed his eyes and concentrated on gathering energy as well. Ki blasts rained on them but not exactly hitting them or inflicting damage. He outstretched his hands, palms open and he opened his eyes at the same time sending the wind attack towards the trackers creating a path. Seeing this Ken stretched his hand and ice wall emerged from the ground. Aya then nodded to Yuko and she ran straight towards the path pulling a seed from her hair and changing it to a staff. Kurama followed her lead as well as the others. Kathrin on the other hand took another direction and headed for the shadows of the trees.
Omi and Ken followed Yuko's group and became the guides Ken was in front of Yuko while Omi was at the back of the group. Aya and Yoji fought with the trackers giving Yuko enough time to escape. When they knew they were far enough not to be sensed Aya used his fire ball to melt the ice wall and turn it to steam concealing the both of them as they followed Yuko. They were able to catch up to them because they had slowed down for a while. When Yuko and the others saw Aya and Yoji unharmed they picked up the speed, Aya went beside Ken to guard the front as Yoji and Omi guard the back. They continued running even though they knew they were safe because they can't afford to be seen or felt by the trackers. Dawn was approaching them when Yuko felt the unmistakable aura of the trackers. She went to Aya and told him just that.
"They are waiting for us."
"I felt it too. What do you propose we do Yuko?"
"They are after me and they would be bent into killing me. I'll fly to the hotel while you guys make your way there as fast as possible. I'll set up a barrier around the hotel to keep us safe for a while."
"Okay but you better take Momi with you. I'm not going to let you go alone."
"Okay I'll inform him."
Yuko slowed down a little just enough to be level with Omi and Yoji. She smiled at Yoji and looked intently at Omi.
"Momi kun I need you to give me a lift."
"You're going to fly towards the hotel? Rairan approved this?"
"Yes to both accounts. Rairan also said that you'd join me."
"Ah yes just like Rairan to do that."
"If you're going to fly I'm coming with you."
Yuko turned to the voice and Kurama smiled at her. He pulled a seed from his pocket and showed Yuko. She smiled and turned to the path ahead they were nearing the end of it and she needs to get to the air quickly. She closed her eyes and concentrated as Omi did the same. Almost at the same time they opened their eyes. Yuko slowed down, enough to get behind Omi and Kurama did the same. Kurama saw the pair of white wings that seem to grow behind Yuko and smiled to himself. He turned to Omi and saw the pair of translucent wings that grew behind him. He channeled some energy to the seed and it grew. It wrapped vines around his body and grew into a butterfly image at his back. Omi turned to them and sent a strong gust of wind sending them upward. When they were high enough Yuko spread her wings and started gliding towards the direction of the hotel, Kurama beside her. She looked down and saw that they were just level with the group down below and Omi was behind her.
Ki blasts and energy fields shot up towards them as they made their pass to the trackers. Yuko dodged and deflected the attacks as Omi sent some attacks back to them. Kurama used his petal dance to help Omi rain attacks on the trackers below. The trackers attention was fully on Yuko that the others were able to pass without difficulty. They were nearing the hotel and Yuko flew even faster towards it because the trackers were following the group below. When she landed, Kurama had landed behind her and Omi had landed behind the group to aid them to escape the trackers. Yuko concentrated in gathering energies in her hands and when they were all behind her she released it covering a 5 mile radius field around the hotel, and shattering her wings like it was glass. The trackers tried to break through it but she released more energy, making the field a lot stronger. The cloak she was wearing was slowly disintegrating with the amount of power she was releasing and to prevent the knowledge of her identity Aya and Ken released enough steam from the water and fire to cover her and them.
It only took a few minutes for everything to calm down and when the steam lifted, they saw Yuko in her Youko form standing in front of them unmoving. Her hair was swaying to the light breeze and her clothes were wet from the steam. The trackers were no where to be seen and everything seem to be in peace. Kurama slowly made his way to Yuko but when he was a few inches away Yuko slowly fell to the side and Kurama caught her, guiding her to lie on his lap. Aya went to them and checked her pulse, it was fast but normal, and he checked her temple and found that it was also normal. He sighed in relief and turned to the others. He shielded his eyes as the sun slowly rose behind the hotel.
"We are the representatives of the spirit world."
"Yes we were informed you would arrive much earlier than the others but we did not expect you to be here this early. Your room had not been readied yet."
"How long would it take you to fix it?"
"About three days..."
"You will fix it in a day or we put down that field and let the trackers destroy the hotel."
"You can't be serious."
Aya, Omi, Ken and Yoji pulled back their hoods and smiled towards the clerk. The clerk gasped recognizing the guardians of the princess. Yoji leaned forward and whispered.
"You know who we are and if I were you I would do what my friend here says. He never jokes around and that field outside, it's only being supported by that lady over there. Now if she doesn't get any rest that field would go down and the trackers would destroy the hotel."
"So what do you say?"
Ken completed as they all placed the hoods back and looked at the clerk.
"Okay, your room would be ready before the day ends."
"Thank you."
They went back to the others to tell them about the room and they looked at Yuko. She was awake but a little pale.
"You all right?"
"Yeah just a little exhausted."
"We have the whole day before the room is fixed what do you propose we do?"
"Train."
"Eh? You can't be serious Yuko. You just spent most of your power and strength putting up that field and now you want to train?"
"Kurama when the tournament starts there's no telling if we'll have any rest before the second tournament starts. There's also no telling how long one tournament can last. If I can't fight in this current condition we won't be able to win. Same goes for the rest of you. So it's either we rest here or train and get our advantage."
"She does have a point."
"Fine but if you can not do it anymore you are going to stop."
"Rairan can handle that. Last time I tried to Yokan send me to sleep with his electricity."
"Well we are your guardians."
"True well shall we?"
Yuko stood up from the seat and held her head. Her head was still spinning and looking at Kurama it seems he was also having the same problem. Yuko walked towards the entrance and opened it. Outside everything seems to be calm and cheery but of course Yuko knew that it was only because of the field. She made her way towards the back of the hotel where a vast space of forest was open for their use. She turned to the others and said,
"We'll split up, Kenren, Kuwabara and Omi can be one group while Yokan, Hiei and Yusuke another. Teach them the usual rules of the tournament. The objective is to have the most members standing. Kurama, Rairan and I will train in another way. We need to get Kurama into the same level you guys have."
"That's all right with me."
"Any objections?"
"Only a question; how do the rules of the tournament go?"
"Five within each team, the fight would be a double bout. It means that two players per team would fight it out. The fifth member would be a replacement for there must always be two members within the ring."
"So what you're telling us is that when the other member is incapable of fighting someone must change him or her?"
"Yes Yusuke. Incapable of fighting or thrown outside the ring to be more precise. There is no rule about helping your member back into the ring so I'd advice trying to help each other."
"If what you say is true then how will you and Kurama train with us?"
"Don't worry, give us a few hours and we'll train with you."
The guardians looked at each other sensing the action Yuko was going to take. Ken and Yoji were about to pretest when Aya raised his hand signaling silence and looked at Yuko. There was something in her eyes that says she wasn't doing it and yet something that tugs at him that she will. Yuko laid down some more of the rules before turning around and heading for a secluded portion of the forest. Upon reaching it she pulled out a seed, transformed it into a staff and placed it by a tree she then turned to Kurama.
"Fight me. Rairan would be our referee. If you are able to defeat me without using your plants then you are ready."
"What's the point of all this?"
"You need to train if you want to defeat the demons you are going up against."
"But then what's the point of fighting you?"
"If you're worried of hurting me, don't worry. Nothing will happen to me, nothing wrong anyway."
"Fine."
Kurama positioned himself much like the position he had when he was in the trial and Yuko stood guard. Kurama attacked Yuko which she evaded easily. The punches and the kicks were easily dodged and blocked, the counters were much greater and it took most of Kurama's strength to stand up from the punches. Of course Yuko could feel it much to her discomfort and yet she stood firm and took another position. Aya watched as the two sparred and took note of the increase in energy level as the two got more into the spar. Yuko sent a ki blast towards Kurama and when the dust settled something was definitely wrong in how Kurama stood and stance. Aya was about to move forward when Yuko stopped him and positioned herself in a similar position.
Kurama's energy level increased by more than Aya had expected and the gleam in his eyes were somewhat worrying him. When they attacked again Kurama's attacks were more powerful than his initial attacks and Yuko was now being pushed into a corner. Before Yuko was pushed back to a tree she punched Kurama towards the stomach and jumped landing behind him. She took a position where her hands were at her side, gathered energy and released it towards Kurama. He was sent towards the tree in front of him and falling to the ground he stood up and rushed towards Yuko. He kicked her to the side which Yuko evaded by moving backward but then was caught in the other kick Kurama sent a millisecond after the first one. She was sent flying sideward and before she could even slow down Kurama was already there waiting for her and delivered another kick.
Yuko felt the surge and increase of energy inside Kurama. She was satisfied to know that the blood she had let him drink had already been incorporated into his system increasing his strength and power. He was ready but he needs to train how to control the new acquired power. She smashed to a tree and the metallic, rusty taste of blood filled her mouth. She smiled towards Kurama and powered up. She rushed towards him and rained multiple punches and kicks towards his unguarded body. When he had fallen and had not moved for ten second Yuko had fallen to her knees clutching her stomach. Aya went to her side and gave her a vial as Kurama sat up and shook his head. He turned to Yuko who was drinking the liquid from the vial and Aya threw him a vial. Kurama looked at it and drank the liquid with not much care what it was.
After a while he felt a little better and was able to move towards the two. When he was face to face with Yuko he bowed as Yuko did the same and offered his hand in a shake. Yuko accepted this and shook his hand gently. She then turned to Aya who then got the staff and threw it towards her. She caught it with her left hand and placed it on her lap. She turned to Kurama and saw the look of confusion on his eyes.
"Wondering where the surge of power came from?"
"Partly. Was wondering why I had no control over my body."
"Remember when you drank some of my blood back at the temple? That would be the cause of the power surge and as for the lose of control it comes with the package."
"What are you talking about?"
"The princess of Subete isn't sought after just because she holds the keys to Subete and its balance. No, she is also sought for her blood which can heal, be an elixir of life, turn demon bones to gold and increase anyone's power when drank. Her core or heart which possesses the power to return anyone who died is also sought after as well as her flesh that can produce an elixir of life."
"So you're telling me that when I drank her blood it increased my powers?"
"It took a while but yes it did."
"But if you are so important why did you leave this world, away from protection?"
"Because everyone here knows about my "gifts". And with the guardians gone they are free to capture torture and kill me. I'd risk the thought of dying in the real world than die here."
"And the blood of destroyed demons?"
"The only thing that can prevent me from using my powers, it drains the life out of me. Kurama, you do trust me right?"
"Of course."
Yuko pulled a small dagger from her back and looked at Aya. She then placed the cold blade on her arm and let it run diagonally. A red line formed from where the blade ran and blood slowly trickled from the wound. There was no pain from it and Kurama felt nothing, except the excitement of watching the blood flow and the thought of drinking it again. He pushed that feeling away; he could not believe he was feeling and even thinking about it. When Yuko offered Kurama her blood, he was about to grab it when he stopped himself and took the dagger instead. The wound closed and was gone, with no trace of it being there, Kurama then took hold of the sharp end and pushed it into his flesh and when blood was already flowing he handed Yuko the dagger which Yuko took hold by the sharp end and did the same. Kurama opened his bloodied palm as Yuko placed hers on top of his. Their blood mixed and surged through their body. When it had healed they both stood up again and positioned themselves for another round of spar.
When they had entered the room a feeling of comfort and relaxation washed over them. The room had ten doors and opening them one by one they found rooms inside it, two though was exceptional from the rest. This room was at the end of the room and when opened instead of the usual bed, table and chair it was decorated much like the room in the palace. Aya gave this room to Yuko who had been reluctant to use it. Across from her was Kurama's room, beside her is Aya's. The other room was fashion much like a sitting room where there was a couch, a low table, ten chairs and a much bigger table. There was also a fridge, a kitchenette, a small shelf of books and a laptop.
Once they were all settled in their rooms, they bid each other good night and went to sleep. Yuko had not been able to sleep soundly that night. Something was bothering her but she did not know what it was. She battled with herself if she should go and wake up Aya or Omi but then she knew they needed to rest. She turned to her side facing the window and stared at the moon. Just then when she was about to close her eyes, her door opened and a figure went inside her room. She was wide awake again, she knew she locked the door and even checked it twice. She didn't move anticipating what the person was going to do.
Suddenly she felt a warm hand gently, softly pass on her leg, sending sensations in her body. It went up slowly and then on her back, under her soft light shirt. A soft growl came from her visitor and she knew who it was. She smiled and relaxed her body; she felt the bed sink with the added weight and that hand explored her body. Soft breath passed on her neck and kissed her neck then her cheeks, those lips were looking for hers and the kisses held hunger in them. Yuko changed her position lying on her back. The visitor changed his as well going on top of her. He kissed her lips briskly, then going down on her chins then her neck. Yuko could not help but moan and growl softly towards the figure but still keeping her eyes closed. One of his hands traveled down from her neck to her shoulder then to her hand and then to her body, while his lips pressed hungrily on hers.
She was basking on his kiss when she felt his hand sink into her flesh. Pain exploded through her making her open her eyes and be face to face with Kurama. However this was a different Kurama, his eyes were glowing a bright red and his lips were in an evil smile. She couldn't move; his weight was prohibiting her. She was about to scream when his other hand went to cover her mouth as his hand dug deeper into her. To complete his torture he slowly pulled his hand, sending incredible pain in her. When his hand was out he raised it for her to see and licked the dripping blood on his hand. He smiled evilly and greedily towards her and made it travel on her body. His hand went above her left breast and his hand penetrated to vulnerable skin and flesh in search of her heart. Blood gushed out of the wound and Yuko flinched at the pain. She felt his hand slice through flesh and break through bones and she felt as he gently took hold of her heart and pulled it of her body. Blood hit the side of his face and it fell to his cheeks like rain. He kissed her on the forehead before moving from above her and going out of the room clutching her still beating heart...
Kurama woke up that day with a start. He had the most horrible dream that night and he had wished he could just push it away. He had dreamed of killing Yuko and taking her heart out of her body. He shook his head and placed his hand on his face only to feel something there. He looked down at his clothes and found them full of blood, he raised his right hand and saw that it was drenched in blood until his wrist and looking down on the floor there lay a human heart. He rushed out of his room and went straight to Yuko only to find no one there and the bed completely soaked in blood. He turned around and opened Aya's door and found a silver haired girl sitting on the bed covered with a blanket. Her back was turned towards him and he slowly made his way towards her as silent as possible.
Yuko felt and heard the footsteps approaching her; she turned and found Kurama walking towards her. He was still covered in blood and his hands still had the dried blood on them. She stood up and backed away from him. Kurama tried to reach her but she had moved to the corner of the room clearly very frightened of him, as if he was going to kill her. Kurama stopped a fair distance to her and spoke.
"Yuko... I didn't know what happened last night and whatever it was it wasn't me I swear I never want to hurt you."
"Leave me alone, go away."
"Yuko."
"Rairan!"
Yuko screamed when he approached her. Just then Aya and the other guardian came into the room their weapons ready. When Aya saw Kurama near Yuko he lowered his Katana and made his way towards Kurama. He placed his hand on his shoulder and whispered,
"I'll explain in the sitting room. Leave her."
Kurama nodded and followed Aya and the others out of the room. Yuko fell to her knees and started crying. She could not believe what had happened last night; she could not even believe that it happened at all. Aya had went to her room and told her to hide in the shadows with him and leave a clone on the bed. She saw Kurama enter the room and slowly kill the clone. She had placed her hands on her mouth and when she was about to question Kurama Aya placed his hand on her shoulder and stopped her. When they were out of the shadow Yuko had fainted and found herself in Aya's room.
Aya had been sure Yuko did not expect what she saw last night but he did. How could he forget that time he almost killed Yuko because of the same thing Yuko gave Kurama. How the blood surged through his veins, enhanced his senses and gave him the thirst for more of that blood. Kurama did not know neither did Yuko that was why he had went to her that night before Kurama could even make his move. It was part of their preparations.
Flash Back
Blood...
Her blood...
Crave her blood...
I crave her blood...
It was the first things he felt when a few hours had passed since he was administered the princess' blood. The others had reacted immediately at the "drug" and tried to go after the princess. He, on the other hand was feeling normal, a little dizzy but normal, that was why he wasn't strapped on the chair until the next day. However he did not expect the craving to be so powerful, so enticing, it was like a creature within himself trying to get out. It had been so hard to contain it in him. It had been so hard to sleep when he was craving something that was so near to him and so vulnerable to him. It whispers to his ears,
You want her blood...
You crave it...
You long for it...
You need it...
They were warned that this might happen, that the blood was so addicting it can take over their bodies and minds to kill and drain the princess of her blood. They had been prepared for that and it wasn't as bad as they had expected it to be however the cravings and the longing for her blood grew every hour. It was unbearable for the four of them, especially him, Rairan. The princess trusted him most and he was like her father in many ways. If he even went beyond any of those he can find himself in the prison cell being tortured. He also had a very deep conviction of not hurting her. She had enough, he knew.
It was only a few more hours before they were cleared of the addiction and they could feel the calming of the cravings and the killings but for Rairan it just seemed to intensify, especially when she was just a few feet away from him. Then it was so unbearable he did not even know what he had done. The princess wanted to go out so he went with her to the lake near her garden. She was basking in the warmth of the sun when he felt the cravings overwhelm his mind and he found himself trespassing the ten feet allotment for the guardians. He wanted to warn the princess but he could not move his body. Someone else was moving it for him.
The last thing he remembered was digging his hand on her back, the blood gushing out and the anguish he saw from her eyes. After that all he could remember was darkness. After that he found himself sitting on the bench contemplating. The other guardians went to him and were looking for the princess. When he said he did not know that when they did the search and found her by the lake, lying in her own blood. That's when he remembered, and that's when he vowed that it was not going to happen again.
End of Flash Back
Kurama was seated across Aya while the other guys went to the seats that were facing the window. Kurama saw that the chairs housed Yusuke, Hiei and Kuwabara, chained and seemingly drugged. He turned to the three guardians who was checking them and glowing a soft hue, the same hue of their powers. Kurama then turned to Aya who was sitting across him, his eyes closed and his hands clasped together and level with his lips. When he opened them there was no hate or anger in his eyes, only compassion and understanding.
"Kurama did you remember doing anything last night?"
"No but I did dream about what had happen."
"What are you talking about Kurama?"
"Yokan just make sure they are all right and I'll handle this."
"Rairan..."
"And by the way why are my friends chained to those chairs and looking like they've been drugged?"
"In a way they are drugged."
"What are you talking about?"
"Remember what you found out about Yuko Kurama?"
"Of course I do."
"Well there's something you ought to know about her blood. Yes it increases a person's power and strength but there is a certain side effect to it. We the guardians went through it when he drank her blood."
"What is this side effect?"
"You crave her blood, wanting more of it and also killing. You crave her blood and you long to kill her as well."
Kurama remembered the things he felt when Yuko let the dagger run on her arm and saw how the blood flowed from the wound and how he had wanted to grab her arm but was able to stop it. He also remembered how he battled with himself in going to Yuko's room last night, how his head was whispering how much he needed the blood, crave it and want to kill her as well. How he tried to keep his mind in one piece but plunged to complete darkness watching from afar how he killed Yuko. Kurama looked at Aya questioningly at that thought of killing Yuko.
"If what happened last night was true then why is she sitting on your bed, crying and frightened when I remember pulling her heart out of her body."
"What?!?!?!?"
"How the hell did he get inside her room?"
"My god..."
"Shut up Yokan, also the both of you Mamomi, Kenren!"
At that commanding voice the three guardians went silent and sat near the two to hear what was going on.
"You did not kill her. I asked her to place a clone in her place so that she can be safe. The moment she said you were going to train with her I knew she was planning on giving you her blood, as well as the others. The guardians knew the catastrophe that can ensue if it was left to be just like that, you most of all."
"What are you talking about?"
"When the blood was administered to us the three guardians gave out the exact reaction to the blood, craving, wildness and killing, just like the three that are seated over there while I stayed normal for a few hours, just like you. Rest assure that the three guardians were also strapped like that worse to be exact. You were able to stop yourself from drinking her blood and instead let it surge through your body directly. But then the cravings and enticement sets in. They can testify that what I say is true."
"What I don't understand is that why did you let me go when you knew I was going to try and kill her?"
"Because she does not know her blood is addictive and she does not know that you are going to kill her for that fact. And if you are wondering why I was able to know you were going to kill her last night it's because it's quite the same with me."
"Rairan, you don't mean you were the reason she was found lying in her blood on the bank of the lake."
"I am sorry guys but it is true. I hid that fact because I was sure you would not trust me after that. Even from her I hid it, fear seemed to grasp me that she would not trust me in protecting her again if she knew."
"Even if we knew it was you we would still trust you, we know the feeling of the cravings and the voices. We were so surprised you lasted that long."
"Wait so you're telling me that it was normal for me to want to kill her after having her blood run through my blood?"
"Yes. And I explained it to you so you would not feel guilty and awkward towards her. I still need to tell her this but I can't get a right time. I don't want her to think this is all her fault."
"Which is, if you put it all together."
They all turned to the door where Yuko was standing and when Aya and Kurama stood up to tell her it's not she turned and ran out of the room...
Blood
And yet...
And yet something was screaming that it wasn't too late.
There was still time.
Kathrin was losing the battle even though something inside kept screaming that she should not stop. She should not let go of the thing she held in Yuko's heart. However how much she would like to hold on there was little or no more strength in her to bear the extreme pain and the anguish her mind was taking. The other guardians were busy training the others and even Aya could not stop what was happening. Yuko was slipping away from her grasp. Kathrin could not and would not take that, she was going to hang on as long as she can for her friend.
They felt something wrong, the sound of someone injured echoed clearly in their ears but it also brought the warning of the fates, the warning of a trial as well as hate. They hesitated. They would not go against the fates but they could not also go against their vows... It was a decision they had to make, and either way they would seem to lose but they were saved when someone else saved the injured person, someone not bound by the laws of Subete, they were not under the threads of fate. They sighed in relief. They were saved. The blue forest echoed this relief and seems to send waves of hope inside its territory. Only if they could escape...
Pain
Hatred
Pain
Hatred
It was the only things echoing in his head. It was deafening how they echoed and pounded in his head and would not stop. He swam in the darkness that was around him. There was nothing in that emptiness but the voices from afar that seem to call him. But then they also fade away.
Is this death?
Or hell?
Is this what I have become?
Then there was pain enveloping him in anguish. And the abstract sounds of the things around him, blurring from his ears. Exhaustion, it was named. He relaxed when the pain subsided.
Pain delivers life... Does that mean I live?
Illusions also deliver death...
Something snapped in him at made him open his eyes and sat up from where he was lying. He looked around the room and found himself in the same room he was in before he went to Yuna. He looked down at himself and found that he was still in one piece. He turned to his side and saw Yuko sleeping peacefully on the other bed. He sighed and stood up from the bed he was in and went towards Yuko's side. When he touched her hand Yuko's eyes opened and she turned towards him.
"You came back..."
"Of course I came back what do you think I was going to do? Leave you to die here?"
"I'm glad you can join us..."
The voice was familiar; he turned and saw the same lady he had been seeing inside his oblivion. The same lady that held those sad, tired golden eyes. There was only one thing that could explain it.
"Yuna..."
"No, I am not Yuna. I may look like my mother but believe me you can't make her go out of her forest, even if it burned down to the ground."
"Then who..."
Before he could finish his sentence the lady shifted and changed into the girl he came to know as the shifter. Yuko held his hand tightly and nodded towards the girl. He could not explain but there was something from the girl that made him feel relief and yet worry.
"Kathrin, it's been a while since you turned to your real form."
"It was needed, the evil was growing and to stop it from growing more I had to change back."
"Everything all right now?"
"You're awake, he's awake. I guess so."
"Not exactly."
They both turned to Kurama and looked at him confused.
"What do you mean?"
"Yuna told me to warn you that the trackers are slowly approaching us. They are slowly breaking the protection of the Blue forest. We must escape."
"So it is true then what the creatures had told me. The Blue forest is weakening for some reason."
"We have to escape then Kathrin. Call the others; it's a whole night's travel to the hotel we are staying. We need to leave tonight."
"But you're not yet well. You still need to recover. And do you think the hotel would accompany us when there's still a month's time before the tournament?"
"Don't worry about me Kurama, We must get out of here before the forest collapses. And the hotel, that could be easily arranged. Kathrin, please."
"As you wish princess. I'll get them to be ready in an hour, enough time for you to pack and get ready."
"Thank you."
As Kathrin left the room Yuko turned to Kurama and saw those worried eyes looking straight into her. Something was certainly different but it was not evil or bad. There was something else too and yet it did not worry her, not much. Yuna had done all she could, it was now just up to Kurama if he was going to accept. Yuko smiled towards him and caressed his cheeks, they felt warm to the touch and Yuko smiled even more. Kurama helped her sit up from the bed and sat beside her, he pulled her closer to him and Yuko could hear the steady beat of his heart. She closed her eyes listening to the message his heart was sending. It was solemn and yet held joy, it was blurred and Yuko knew the fight inside him was still going on. She contented herself in his arms.
Kurama was quite content on holding her in his arms and feeling the warmth they seem to share. He snuggled closer to her, burying his face in her hair, letting its fragrance send him to another place. He kissed her nape and then the side of her neck; Yuko had not moved but the smile on her lips was enough for Kurama to get the idea. Kurama smiled to himself and licked the side of her neck, growling softly at the same time. Yuko moved her head to a position where she is looking at Kurama and smiled up to him. Kurama then let his nose pass a couple of times on hers before pecking it and kissing her lips. The sensation that enveloped Kurama was nothing he had ever experienced before and it had taken all his will power to push her gently and look into her eyes.
He was about to say something when Yuko placed her index finger on his lips. She smiled and shook her head. There were no more need for words, her eyes seem to say and Kurama accepted that. Yuko pulled her finger away and rested her head on his chest and closed her eyes. It had been so long since the last time she had been this relaxed. And it had been so long since he had felt this calm. They both took that moment as paradise and anticipated the fact that it might never happen again...
"Kuwabara find your opponent's weakness then attack."
"Yusuke don't mind what's going on around you just focus on the task at hand."
Kathrin heard those orders before, different names but still the same and it made her smile. She made her way to the field they had made into their training ground and saw Yusuke sparing with Ken, Kuwabara with Yoji and Aya with Hiei while Omi was noting down their improvements and failures. Momi had always been good at that, he was always so observant. Kathrin thought as she made her way towards them. A blue energy ball was heading her way and she just batted it aside causing Yusuke, Kuwabara and Hiei to lose concentration and be sent towards the trees. Kathrin sighed and headed for Aya.
"Yuko's awake as well as Kurama. They just woke up. Kurama brought news from Yuna..."
She watched as they crowded around her and Momi looking at the injuries of the three.
"What did Yuna bring?"
"We have a problem Rairan, the trackers are closing in. Yuna said that they are finding the weakness of the forest and that we must escape as soon as possible."
"This is three days ago, whatever had happened then... Even if we try to escape the trackers could be just outside the forest."
"Exactly Kenren that's why Yuko had told me to inform you that we are leaving tonight; prepare what you can and meet us in the dining room in an hour's time, we need to see if we can escape together if not we have to break into groups."
"But what about Yuko, she just woke up, wouldn't it tire her again?"
"Sorry Yokan the princess said we need to leave. She would rather run than let the forest collapse."
They looked at each other much to the confusion of the three warriors. At the use of the proper title of Yuko they knew she had commanded it or rather pleaded for it. And at the use of that name they were bound to obey even if it endangered her so. They sighed and nodded.
"We'll see you in an hour then."
"I'm sorry guys but we can't..."
"We know Kathrin... We know..."
They turned to the three to explain what was going on as Kathrin went back to the house; Aya had followed her and went beside her.
"What are they doing now?"
"Most probably preparing for the trip ahead. Rairan wait!"
Kathrin grabbed Aya's hand to stop him from running.
"Let them do what they're supposed to do. You can't always let Yuko be protected under the care of the guardians."
"No but I can try. She's been hurt enough, don't you think it's time she become happy?"
"I know that but don't you think she's happy already just being with him? Rairan give them a chance."
With that Kathrin loosened her hold on Aya and walked back to the house, using the front door instead of the back. She was fixing her things when she heard the unmistakable sound of the healing room door open and close. She looked out her room and found Yuko and Kurama garbed in their cloaks and looking at each other intently. She smiled and finished her packing, clasping the cloak and locking the door to her room. She descended the stairs hurriedly and went to the dining room only to find Yuko and Kurama eating.
"Kathrin, like to join us?"
"No thanks Yuko. Found a way to escape yet?"
"Yup, I just need Rairan to say yes and everything would be fine."
"No."
They turned to the voice to find Rairan and the others coming into the room. Yuko sighed and looked at Rairan.
"Whatever you're planning I'm not approving it."
"But Rairan..."
"No."
"Fine then."
Yuko turned to Kathrin and shrugged. Kathrin smiled and pulled something from her pocket. She laid it out on the table and entrusted them to gather around.
"This is the map of Subete. This is the fastest route to the hotel you're staying at. It would take you approximately the whole night to get there if you leave in a few minutes. This is the safest route but it would take you two days to get to the hotel. The plan is to split up into two groups. Rairan and Kenren with Yusuke and Kuwabara can take the faster route while the rest the can the safer one. Rairan can lure the trackers to follow them while the other group can escape safely."
"But you have not included yourself Kathrin."
"I need to head to the Dark forest. I must seek advice and guidance from Yuna. And the moon would reach its gibbous phase in about a week, the ritual of the keepers is about to start. Yuko you know that I have to be there."
"Oh yeah... I heard Toma was going to follow Yuna."
"Yes but Toma isn't ready. That is the reason I must be there. And I need to see if I can get you some help from the fates. You are going to need it."
Yuko laughed and turned to Aya.
"You okay with this plan?"
"Yes but this can only work if we leave at intervals. We don't have that much time."
"We will make time then."
Just then the house seems to move from under them. Yuko looked worriedly at the others and stood up. She ran towards the front door followed by the others. She opened it and looked up; the sky was clouding and getting dark. She cursed softly and turned to the others. They knew what it meant and if they did not leave now they were doomed.
"Rairan?"
"Change of plans. We'll risk using the faster route."
They agreed on this and turned to get their belongings from the dining room. Acquiring them they headed for the back door and after the four guardians made sure it was safe, they headed for the edge of the forest. Upon getting there Aya turned to the group and spoke softly.
"The trackers are just beyond these trees. Momi can create a path with his wind, Kenren will create a wall around that path so you can pass clearly and Yokan and I will hold them to give you enough time to escape."
The others nodded and Omi positioned himself at the edge of the forest, near enough to deliver a powerful attack but far enough to hide himself with the help of the trees. Ken was beside him and started gathering energy; Omi closed his eyes and concentrated on gathering energy as well. Ki blasts rained on them but not exactly hitting them or inflicting damage. He outstretched his hands, palms open and he opened his eyes at the same time sending the wind attack towards the trackers creating a path. Seeing this Ken stretched his hand and ice wall emerged from the ground. Aya then nodded to Yuko and she ran straight towards the path pulling a seed from her hair and changing it to a staff. Kurama followed her lead as well as the others. Kathrin on the other hand took another direction and headed for the shadows of the trees.
Omi and Ken followed Yuko's group and became the guides Ken was in front of Yuko while Omi was at the back of the group. Aya and Yoji fought with the trackers giving Yuko enough time to escape. When they knew they were far enough not to be sensed Aya used his fire ball to melt the ice wall and turn it to steam concealing the both of them as they followed Yuko. They were able to catch up to them because they had slowed down for a while. When Yuko and the others saw Aya and Yoji unharmed they picked up the speed, Aya went beside Ken to guard the front as Yoji and Omi guard the back. They continued running even though they knew they were safe because they can't afford to be seen or felt by the trackers. Dawn was approaching them when Yuko felt the unmistakable aura of the trackers. She went to Aya and told him just that.
"They are waiting for us."
"I felt it too. What do you propose we do Yuko?"
"They are after me and they would be bent into killing me. I'll fly to the hotel while you guys make your way there as fast as possible. I'll set up a barrier around the hotel to keep us safe for a while."
"Okay but you better take Momi with you. I'm not going to let you go alone."
"Okay I'll inform him."
Yuko slowed down a little just enough to be level with Omi and Yoji. She smiled at Yoji and looked intently at Omi.
"Momi kun I need you to give me a lift."
"You're going to fly towards the hotel? Rairan approved this?"
"Yes to both accounts. Rairan also said that you'd join me."
"Ah yes just like Rairan to do that."
"If you're going to fly I'm coming with you."
Yuko turned to the voice and Kurama smiled at her. He pulled a seed from his pocket and showed Yuko. She smiled and turned to the path ahead they were nearing the end of it and she needs to get to the air quickly. She closed her eyes and concentrated as Omi did the same. Almost at the same time they opened their eyes. Yuko slowed down, enough to get behind Omi and Kurama did the same. Kurama saw the pair of white wings that seem to grow behind Yuko and smiled to himself. He turned to Omi and saw the pair of translucent wings that grew behind him. He channeled some energy to the seed and it grew. It wrapped vines around his body and grew into a butterfly image at his back. Omi turned to them and sent a strong gust of wind sending them upward. When they were high enough Yuko spread her wings and started gliding towards the direction of the hotel, Kurama beside her. She looked down and saw that they were just level with the group down below and Omi was behind her.
Ki blasts and energy fields shot up towards them as they made their pass to the trackers. Yuko dodged and deflected the attacks as Omi sent some attacks back to them. Kurama used his petal dance to help Omi rain attacks on the trackers below. The trackers attention was fully on Yuko that the others were able to pass without difficulty. They were nearing the hotel and Yuko flew even faster towards it because the trackers were following the group below. When she landed, Kurama had landed behind her and Omi had landed behind the group to aid them to escape the trackers. Yuko concentrated in gathering energies in her hands and when they were all behind her she released it covering a 5 mile radius field around the hotel, and shattering her wings like it was glass. The trackers tried to break through it but she released more energy, making the field a lot stronger. The cloak she was wearing was slowly disintegrating with the amount of power she was releasing and to prevent the knowledge of her identity Aya and Ken released enough steam from the water and fire to cover her and them.
It only took a few minutes for everything to calm down and when the steam lifted, they saw Yuko in her Youko form standing in front of them unmoving. Her hair was swaying to the light breeze and her clothes were wet from the steam. The trackers were no where to be seen and everything seem to be in peace. Kurama slowly made his way to Yuko but when he was a few inches away Yuko slowly fell to the side and Kurama caught her, guiding her to lie on his lap. Aya went to them and checked her pulse, it was fast but normal, and he checked her temple and found that it was also normal. He sighed in relief and turned to the others. He shielded his eyes as the sun slowly rose behind the hotel.
"We are the representatives of the spirit world."
"Yes we were informed you would arrive much earlier than the others but we did not expect you to be here this early. Your room had not been readied yet."
"How long would it take you to fix it?"
"About three days..."
"You will fix it in a day or we put down that field and let the trackers destroy the hotel."
"You can't be serious."
Aya, Omi, Ken and Yoji pulled back their hoods and smiled towards the clerk. The clerk gasped recognizing the guardians of the princess. Yoji leaned forward and whispered.
"You know who we are and if I were you I would do what my friend here says. He never jokes around and that field outside, it's only being supported by that lady over there. Now if she doesn't get any rest that field would go down and the trackers would destroy the hotel."
"So what do you say?"
Ken completed as they all placed the hoods back and looked at the clerk.
"Okay, your room would be ready before the day ends."
"Thank you."
They went back to the others to tell them about the room and they looked at Yuko. She was awake but a little pale.
"You all right?"
"Yeah just a little exhausted."
"We have the whole day before the room is fixed what do you propose we do?"
"Train."
"Eh? You can't be serious Yuko. You just spent most of your power and strength putting up that field and now you want to train?"
"Kurama when the tournament starts there's no telling if we'll have any rest before the second tournament starts. There's also no telling how long one tournament can last. If I can't fight in this current condition we won't be able to win. Same goes for the rest of you. So it's either we rest here or train and get our advantage."
"She does have a point."
"Fine but if you can not do it anymore you are going to stop."
"Rairan can handle that. Last time I tried to Yokan send me to sleep with his electricity."
"Well we are your guardians."
"True well shall we?"
Yuko stood up from the seat and held her head. Her head was still spinning and looking at Kurama it seems he was also having the same problem. Yuko walked towards the entrance and opened it. Outside everything seems to be calm and cheery but of course Yuko knew that it was only because of the field. She made her way towards the back of the hotel where a vast space of forest was open for their use. She turned to the others and said,
"We'll split up, Kenren, Kuwabara and Omi can be one group while Yokan, Hiei and Yusuke another. Teach them the usual rules of the tournament. The objective is to have the most members standing. Kurama, Rairan and I will train in another way. We need to get Kurama into the same level you guys have."
"That's all right with me."
"Any objections?"
"Only a question; how do the rules of the tournament go?"
"Five within each team, the fight would be a double bout. It means that two players per team would fight it out. The fifth member would be a replacement for there must always be two members within the ring."
"So what you're telling us is that when the other member is incapable of fighting someone must change him or her?"
"Yes Yusuke. Incapable of fighting or thrown outside the ring to be more precise. There is no rule about helping your member back into the ring so I'd advice trying to help each other."
"If what you say is true then how will you and Kurama train with us?"
"Don't worry, give us a few hours and we'll train with you."
The guardians looked at each other sensing the action Yuko was going to take. Ken and Yoji were about to pretest when Aya raised his hand signaling silence and looked at Yuko. There was something in her eyes that says she wasn't doing it and yet something that tugs at him that she will. Yuko laid down some more of the rules before turning around and heading for a secluded portion of the forest. Upon reaching it she pulled out a seed, transformed it into a staff and placed it by a tree she then turned to Kurama.
"Fight me. Rairan would be our referee. If you are able to defeat me without using your plants then you are ready."
"What's the point of all this?"
"You need to train if you want to defeat the demons you are going up against."
"But then what's the point of fighting you?"
"If you're worried of hurting me, don't worry. Nothing will happen to me, nothing wrong anyway."
"Fine."
Kurama positioned himself much like the position he had when he was in the trial and Yuko stood guard. Kurama attacked Yuko which she evaded easily. The punches and the kicks were easily dodged and blocked, the counters were much greater and it took most of Kurama's strength to stand up from the punches. Of course Yuko could feel it much to her discomfort and yet she stood firm and took another position. Aya watched as the two sparred and took note of the increase in energy level as the two got more into the spar. Yuko sent a ki blast towards Kurama and when the dust settled something was definitely wrong in how Kurama stood and stance. Aya was about to move forward when Yuko stopped him and positioned herself in a similar position.
Kurama's energy level increased by more than Aya had expected and the gleam in his eyes were somewhat worrying him. When they attacked again Kurama's attacks were more powerful than his initial attacks and Yuko was now being pushed into a corner. Before Yuko was pushed back to a tree she punched Kurama towards the stomach and jumped landing behind him. She took a position where her hands were at her side, gathered energy and released it towards Kurama. He was sent towards the tree in front of him and falling to the ground he stood up and rushed towards Yuko. He kicked her to the side which Yuko evaded by moving backward but then was caught in the other kick Kurama sent a millisecond after the first one. She was sent flying sideward and before she could even slow down Kurama was already there waiting for her and delivered another kick.
Yuko felt the surge and increase of energy inside Kurama. She was satisfied to know that the blood she had let him drink had already been incorporated into his system increasing his strength and power. He was ready but he needs to train how to control the new acquired power. She smashed to a tree and the metallic, rusty taste of blood filled her mouth. She smiled towards Kurama and powered up. She rushed towards him and rained multiple punches and kicks towards his unguarded body. When he had fallen and had not moved for ten second Yuko had fallen to her knees clutching her stomach. Aya went to her side and gave her a vial as Kurama sat up and shook his head. He turned to Yuko who was drinking the liquid from the vial and Aya threw him a vial. Kurama looked at it and drank the liquid with not much care what it was.
After a while he felt a little better and was able to move towards the two. When he was face to face with Yuko he bowed as Yuko did the same and offered his hand in a shake. Yuko accepted this and shook his hand gently. She then turned to Aya who then got the staff and threw it towards her. She caught it with her left hand and placed it on her lap. She turned to Kurama and saw the look of confusion on his eyes.
"Wondering where the surge of power came from?"
"Partly. Was wondering why I had no control over my body."
"Remember when you drank some of my blood back at the temple? That would be the cause of the power surge and as for the lose of control it comes with the package."
"What are you talking about?"
"The princess of Subete isn't sought after just because she holds the keys to Subete and its balance. No, she is also sought for her blood which can heal, be an elixir of life, turn demon bones to gold and increase anyone's power when drank. Her core or heart which possesses the power to return anyone who died is also sought after as well as her flesh that can produce an elixir of life."
"So you're telling me that when I drank her blood it increased my powers?"
"It took a while but yes it did."
"But if you are so important why did you leave this world, away from protection?"
"Because everyone here knows about my "gifts". And with the guardians gone they are free to capture torture and kill me. I'd risk the thought of dying in the real world than die here."
"And the blood of destroyed demons?"
"The only thing that can prevent me from using my powers, it drains the life out of me. Kurama, you do trust me right?"
"Of course."
Yuko pulled a small dagger from her back and looked at Aya. She then placed the cold blade on her arm and let it run diagonally. A red line formed from where the blade ran and blood slowly trickled from the wound. There was no pain from it and Kurama felt nothing, except the excitement of watching the blood flow and the thought of drinking it again. He pushed that feeling away; he could not believe he was feeling and even thinking about it. When Yuko offered Kurama her blood, he was about to grab it when he stopped himself and took the dagger instead. The wound closed and was gone, with no trace of it being there, Kurama then took hold of the sharp end and pushed it into his flesh and when blood was already flowing he handed Yuko the dagger which Yuko took hold by the sharp end and did the same. Kurama opened his bloodied palm as Yuko placed hers on top of his. Their blood mixed and surged through their body. When it had healed they both stood up again and positioned themselves for another round of spar.
When they had entered the room a feeling of comfort and relaxation washed over them. The room had ten doors and opening them one by one they found rooms inside it, two though was exceptional from the rest. This room was at the end of the room and when opened instead of the usual bed, table and chair it was decorated much like the room in the palace. Aya gave this room to Yuko who had been reluctant to use it. Across from her was Kurama's room, beside her is Aya's. The other room was fashion much like a sitting room where there was a couch, a low table, ten chairs and a much bigger table. There was also a fridge, a kitchenette, a small shelf of books and a laptop.
Once they were all settled in their rooms, they bid each other good night and went to sleep. Yuko had not been able to sleep soundly that night. Something was bothering her but she did not know what it was. She battled with herself if she should go and wake up Aya or Omi but then she knew they needed to rest. She turned to her side facing the window and stared at the moon. Just then when she was about to close her eyes, her door opened and a figure went inside her room. She was wide awake again, she knew she locked the door and even checked it twice. She didn't move anticipating what the person was going to do.
Suddenly she felt a warm hand gently, softly pass on her leg, sending sensations in her body. It went up slowly and then on her back, under her soft light shirt. A soft growl came from her visitor and she knew who it was. She smiled and relaxed her body; she felt the bed sink with the added weight and that hand explored her body. Soft breath passed on her neck and kissed her neck then her cheeks, those lips were looking for hers and the kisses held hunger in them. Yuko changed her position lying on her back. The visitor changed his as well going on top of her. He kissed her lips briskly, then going down on her chins then her neck. Yuko could not help but moan and growl softly towards the figure but still keeping her eyes closed. One of his hands traveled down from her neck to her shoulder then to her hand and then to her body, while his lips pressed hungrily on hers.
She was basking on his kiss when she felt his hand sink into her flesh. Pain exploded through her making her open her eyes and be face to face with Kurama. However this was a different Kurama, his eyes were glowing a bright red and his lips were in an evil smile. She couldn't move; his weight was prohibiting her. She was about to scream when his other hand went to cover her mouth as his hand dug deeper into her. To complete his torture he slowly pulled his hand, sending incredible pain in her. When his hand was out he raised it for her to see and licked the dripping blood on his hand. He smiled evilly and greedily towards her and made it travel on her body. His hand went above her left breast and his hand penetrated to vulnerable skin and flesh in search of her heart. Blood gushed out of the wound and Yuko flinched at the pain. She felt his hand slice through flesh and break through bones and she felt as he gently took hold of her heart and pulled it of her body. Blood hit the side of his face and it fell to his cheeks like rain. He kissed her on the forehead before moving from above her and going out of the room clutching her still beating heart...
Kurama woke up that day with a start. He had the most horrible dream that night and he had wished he could just push it away. He had dreamed of killing Yuko and taking her heart out of her body. He shook his head and placed his hand on his face only to feel something there. He looked down at his clothes and found them full of blood, he raised his right hand and saw that it was drenched in blood until his wrist and looking down on the floor there lay a human heart. He rushed out of his room and went straight to Yuko only to find no one there and the bed completely soaked in blood. He turned around and opened Aya's door and found a silver haired girl sitting on the bed covered with a blanket. Her back was turned towards him and he slowly made his way towards her as silent as possible.
Yuko felt and heard the footsteps approaching her; she turned and found Kurama walking towards her. He was still covered in blood and his hands still had the dried blood on them. She stood up and backed away from him. Kurama tried to reach her but she had moved to the corner of the room clearly very frightened of him, as if he was going to kill her. Kurama stopped a fair distance to her and spoke.
"Yuko... I didn't know what happened last night and whatever it was it wasn't me I swear I never want to hurt you."
"Leave me alone, go away."
"Yuko."
"Rairan!"
Yuko screamed when he approached her. Just then Aya and the other guardian came into the room their weapons ready. When Aya saw Kurama near Yuko he lowered his Katana and made his way towards Kurama. He placed his hand on his shoulder and whispered,
"I'll explain in the sitting room. Leave her."
Kurama nodded and followed Aya and the others out of the room. Yuko fell to her knees and started crying. She could not believe what had happened last night; she could not even believe that it happened at all. Aya had went to her room and told her to hide in the shadows with him and leave a clone on the bed. She saw Kurama enter the room and slowly kill the clone. She had placed her hands on her mouth and when she was about to question Kurama Aya placed his hand on her shoulder and stopped her. When they were out of the shadow Yuko had fainted and found herself in Aya's room.
Aya had been sure Yuko did not expect what she saw last night but he did. How could he forget that time he almost killed Yuko because of the same thing Yuko gave Kurama. How the blood surged through his veins, enhanced his senses and gave him the thirst for more of that blood. Kurama did not know neither did Yuko that was why he had went to her that night before Kurama could even make his move. It was part of their preparations.
Flash Back
Blood...
Her blood...
Crave her blood...
I crave her blood...
It was the first things he felt when a few hours had passed since he was administered the princess' blood. The others had reacted immediately at the "drug" and tried to go after the princess. He, on the other hand was feeling normal, a little dizzy but normal, that was why he wasn't strapped on the chair until the next day. However he did not expect the craving to be so powerful, so enticing, it was like a creature within himself trying to get out. It had been so hard to contain it in him. It had been so hard to sleep when he was craving something that was so near to him and so vulnerable to him. It whispers to his ears,
You want her blood...
You crave it...
You long for it...
You need it...
They were warned that this might happen, that the blood was so addicting it can take over their bodies and minds to kill and drain the princess of her blood. They had been prepared for that and it wasn't as bad as they had expected it to be however the cravings and the longing for her blood grew every hour. It was unbearable for the four of them, especially him, Rairan. The princess trusted him most and he was like her father in many ways. If he even went beyond any of those he can find himself in the prison cell being tortured. He also had a very deep conviction of not hurting her. She had enough, he knew.
It was only a few more hours before they were cleared of the addiction and they could feel the calming of the cravings and the killings but for Rairan it just seemed to intensify, especially when she was just a few feet away from him. Then it was so unbearable he did not even know what he had done. The princess wanted to go out so he went with her to the lake near her garden. She was basking in the warmth of the sun when he felt the cravings overwhelm his mind and he found himself trespassing the ten feet allotment for the guardians. He wanted to warn the princess but he could not move his body. Someone else was moving it for him.
The last thing he remembered was digging his hand on her back, the blood gushing out and the anguish he saw from her eyes. After that all he could remember was darkness. After that he found himself sitting on the bench contemplating. The other guardians went to him and were looking for the princess. When he said he did not know that when they did the search and found her by the lake, lying in her own blood. That's when he remembered, and that's when he vowed that it was not going to happen again.
End of Flash Back
Kurama was seated across Aya while the other guys went to the seats that were facing the window. Kurama saw that the chairs housed Yusuke, Hiei and Kuwabara, chained and seemingly drugged. He turned to the three guardians who was checking them and glowing a soft hue, the same hue of their powers. Kurama then turned to Aya who was sitting across him, his eyes closed and his hands clasped together and level with his lips. When he opened them there was no hate or anger in his eyes, only compassion and understanding.
"Kurama did you remember doing anything last night?"
"No but I did dream about what had happen."
"What are you talking about Kurama?"
"Yokan just make sure they are all right and I'll handle this."
"Rairan..."
"And by the way why are my friends chained to those chairs and looking like they've been drugged?"
"In a way they are drugged."
"What are you talking about?"
"Remember what you found out about Yuko Kurama?"
"Of course I do."
"Well there's something you ought to know about her blood. Yes it increases a person's power and strength but there is a certain side effect to it. We the guardians went through it when he drank her blood."
"What is this side effect?"
"You crave her blood, wanting more of it and also killing. You crave her blood and you long to kill her as well."
Kurama remembered the things he felt when Yuko let the dagger run on her arm and saw how the blood flowed from the wound and how he had wanted to grab her arm but was able to stop it. He also remembered how he battled with himself in going to Yuko's room last night, how his head was whispering how much he needed the blood, crave it and want to kill her as well. How he tried to keep his mind in one piece but plunged to complete darkness watching from afar how he killed Yuko. Kurama looked at Aya questioningly at that thought of killing Yuko.
"If what happened last night was true then why is she sitting on your bed, crying and frightened when I remember pulling her heart out of her body."
"What?!?!?!?"
"How the hell did he get inside her room?"
"My god..."
"Shut up Yokan, also the both of you Mamomi, Kenren!"
At that commanding voice the three guardians went silent and sat near the two to hear what was going on.
"You did not kill her. I asked her to place a clone in her place so that she can be safe. The moment she said you were going to train with her I knew she was planning on giving you her blood, as well as the others. The guardians knew the catastrophe that can ensue if it was left to be just like that, you most of all."
"What are you talking about?"
"When the blood was administered to us the three guardians gave out the exact reaction to the blood, craving, wildness and killing, just like the three that are seated over there while I stayed normal for a few hours, just like you. Rest assure that the three guardians were also strapped like that worse to be exact. You were able to stop yourself from drinking her blood and instead let it surge through your body directly. But then the cravings and enticement sets in. They can testify that what I say is true."
"What I don't understand is that why did you let me go when you knew I was going to try and kill her?"
"Because she does not know her blood is addictive and she does not know that you are going to kill her for that fact. And if you are wondering why I was able to know you were going to kill her last night it's because it's quite the same with me."
"Rairan, you don't mean you were the reason she was found lying in her blood on the bank of the lake."
"I am sorry guys but it is true. I hid that fact because I was sure you would not trust me after that. Even from her I hid it, fear seemed to grasp me that she would not trust me in protecting her again if she knew."
"Even if we knew it was you we would still trust you, we know the feeling of the cravings and the voices. We were so surprised you lasted that long."
"Wait so you're telling me that it was normal for me to want to kill her after having her blood run through my blood?"
"Yes. And I explained it to you so you would not feel guilty and awkward towards her. I still need to tell her this but I can't get a right time. I don't want her to think this is all her fault."
"Which is, if you put it all together."
They all turned to the door where Yuko was standing and when Aya and Kurama stood up to tell her it's not she turned and ran out of the room...