Episode 10: "An Attack! But on who?! Momiji solves the riddle!"
"That little brat is so annoying; that's probably why the Baken-Ai wanted to kill him so badly," Serena reasoned to Momiji over the phone. "Calling me ugly! How could he?! I mean, I never - "
"I'm sure he didn't mean it in a mean way," Momiji interrupted quickly and hastily changed the subject. "But what should I do about Danjuro and his riddle? Should I tell Yusuke?"
"I don't know…didn't Danjuro say to figure it out first?" Serena inquired.
"Yeah, but…should I really listen to him? I mean, he IS the bad guy," Momiji reminded her friend. "Besides, maybe Yusuke will have a better chance figuring it out."
"I guess so…" Serena agreed reluctantly.
"But I don't want to worry him," Momiji then added, noticing the lack of enthusiasm in Serena's voice.
"Yeah," Serena stated, voice becoming stern. "Besides, who says you need stupid Yusuke for, anyway? I bet you could solve this riddle on your own without his arrogant help!"
"Really?" Momiji asked hopefully. "You think so?"
"Sure, I think so!" Serena exclaimed wholeheartedly. "I mean, you're just as much a part of the team as he is, you know!"
"Well…thanks, Serena," Momiji said bashfully, face turning slightly pink. "You're right! Who needs Yusuke? I can figure this one out on my own!"
"That's the spirit, Momiji!"
"Right! I don't need anyone! I'm going to do this all by myself, without any help!" she declared resiliently. However, after an awkward moment of silence, she frowned and asked sheepishly, "So…what do you think it means?" Serena frowned as well.
"I don't know…I've never been very good at riddles."
"Neither have I," Momiji admitted. "I was thinking of just sleeping on it and maybe the answer will just sort of come to me."
"That sounds like a good plan," Serena agreed.
"Yeah, but what if the answer doesn't come to me before Danjuro rips out Yusuke's heart…or whatever he plans to do?"
"Uh…well, I'm sure that won't happen…" Serena insisted weakly and another awkward silence followed. Then, Serena asked, "What do you suppose that kid meant by me being next?"
"I don't know," Momiji answered with solemn sincerity. "That really is strange, Serena. But he is just a kid, after all. Maybe he was just making things up."
"Maybe…" Serena's voice trailed off into a yawn. "Well, I've got to go and get some rest. Call me tomorrow morning if you figure out Danjuro's riddle. Unless it's really important and then you can call me tonight. Unless it's not that important and all and then you can call me tomorrow afternoon because I probably will be running late tomorrow morning considering I never seem to get up in time…"
"Don't worry, Serena; I'll figure something out," Momiji assured her. "Bye."
"Bye." The two girls then hung up the phone.
Momiji then yawned herself and stretched out her arms. Already in her pajamas, she crawled into bed and turned off the light. Then, laying her head on her pillow, she stared up at the ceiling and frowned. As tired as she was, she found it impossible to sleep; she had to solve that riddle.
Keiko yawned as she stepped outside the library just as it closed, night having already fallen onto the city. "I shouldn't have stayed so late at the library," she thought aloud as she looked down at her watch. "It's already half past ten." She sighed. "Well, I better start walking home." Pulling her books close to her chest, she began walking home.
When she was passing the park, she suddenly heard a low humming noise, sort of like a purr. She stopped and listened warily. Glancing around in the dark night, she could see that no one was around but her and she suddenly felt very nervous. Clutching her books tighter, she began to walk again. Yet the purr came once more and she froze again. "Hello?" she called out weakly. "Is anyone there?" She could hear something moving about, though she was unsure from where. "I don't have any money, if that's what you want." No answer came, just the sound of low purring. Feeling herself begin to tremble and sensing that she was in some sort of danger, she glared about the darkness of the street. "Hello…?" she asked again and then suddenly felt something brush up against the back of her ankle. Letting out a gasp, she spun about and then fell backwards, hitting her rear end into the pavement and her books scattering beside her. Then, upon noticing a black cat in front of her, she sighed in relief and smiled.
"You sure did scare me, kitty," she said with a laugh and outstretching her hand to pet the cat. Scratching it behind the ear, she added good-naturedly, "Don't you know it's rude to sneak up on people like that? Nearly gave me a heart attack!" Exhaling, she gathered her books and stood up, brushing the dirt off the back of her skirt. "Well, good night, kitty." She then turned to leave.
Keiko let out a shrill scream of fright at the sight of a cat beast standing before her, hissing and yellow fangs bared. It was about six feet tall and stood like a person would, on two legs, it's black furry arms outstretched and fingers curled, claws ready to shred Keiko apart. It's red cat eyes glared at Keiko violently and it's ears were bit pointier than a cat's. Keiko stumbled back in fright and swallowed hard. "Nice kitty…" she said nervously, taking another cautious step back. But the cat demon just screeched louder and went to pounce. Keiko closed her eyes tightly, dropped her books, and let out another terrified scream, turning to flee although she knew she'd never out run the ferocious beast.
And then, all of a sudden, she found herself flying. She blinked her eyes open and looked up to see a dark skinned, grin haired man in a red jacket carrying her through the night sky. "Who-who are you?" she asked in a daze.
The man grinned charmingly and replied, "You can call me Kusanagi."
"Kusanagi?" Keiko questioned in confusion as they landed on the grass in the park. She thought, why does that sound so familiar…?
"And who might you be?" Kusanagi asked, releasing Keiko.
"Me?" she asked and then answered politely, "My name is Keiko."
"Well, Keiko, do you have any idea why that cat demon attacked you?"
"No, I don't," Keiko answered honestly. "I was walking home from the library and-"
Suddenly, the cat beast came charging forward and pounced on Keiko. Keiko let out a shrill cry and began pounding her fists up toward the demon. Yet it did no good; the cat beast was simply too strong. It raised its paw and struck her across the face, its claws slashing into her cheek, leaving three bleeding cuts. Keiko let out a sob. Kusanagi's face grew furious then and he tackled the cat demon, throwing it off Keiko and onto the grass a few yards from her. Then, pinning it down, a plant blade sprung from his forearm and he violently began to stab the beast. Keiko sat up with a stunned expression on her face and placed a hand to her throbbing cheek.
"Well, that ought to do the trick," Kusanagi said, standing up and brushing off his hands. He turned from the dead beast and to Keiko. "Are you all right?"
"I think so," she answered, as she gazed down at her fingertips that trickled with blood from her cheek. "I'm just bleeding a bit…"
"You're lucky I came along when I did," Kusanagi began, walking over to her and helping her up off the ground. "You would have been dead otherwise." He then put on a sly grin and added, "You're also lucky you're pretty developed, too, otherwise I might not have saved you either." Keiko's face boiled red.
"Pervert!" she cried and slapped him hard across the face. She then frowned, her face turning bright red with embarrassment. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-well-"
"Jeez, you hit pretty hard for a girl!" Kusanagi exclaimed, interrupting her and rubbing the side of his face. "What, did you get practice or something?" Keiko blinked a few times in surprise.
"Well, now that I think about it," she began, folding her arms pensively and Yusuke coming to mind, "yes, actually."
"Well, it shows," Kusanagi muttered, still rubbing his sore cheek. Suddenly, a rustling noise came to his ear. "Huh?" He turned his head to look behind him and Keiko's eyes widened in curiosity. The cat demon suddenly began to rise from the ground, it's crushed body miraculously healing itself. Keiko gasped in horror, placing a hand to her mouth and stepping back. Kusanagi narrowed his eyes and gritted his teeth. The cat beast now stood on all fours and reared its toward them, flashing its red eyes in rage. It then jolted forward toward Keiko, but Kusanagi stepped in its way first, slashing his plant blade at the beast's throat. The beast let out a horrible screech as it stood on its back legs and staggered back. But as quickly as the blood appeared and splattered on the grass, the wound disappeared from the cat demon's throat.
"Why won't it die?" Keiko asked frantically.
"I don't know,' Kusanagi answered and charged for the beast again.
"Wait!" Keiko tried to protest, but it was too late; Kusanagi and the cat demon were wrestling again. The cat beast soon had Kusanagi pinned down to the grass.
"Run!" Kusanagi told Keiko then, but Keiko shook her head.
"But I can't just-"
"I said, go!" Kusanagi shouted and Keiko reluctantly complied, running as fast as she could, trying to find some sort of safe haven. But as soon as the cat demon saw her flee her leaped off Kusanagai and started darting for Keiko. Kusanagi looked up with severe eyes. "It really is after her…" Kusanagi then quickly followed after the beast.
Kusanagi stabbed the beast in the back when he caught up to it, killing it for a third time, and it slumped to the ground. Then, Kusanagi swiftly jumped over it and took Keiko's hand, who was trembling fearfully. "Come on!" he told her. She hesitated a bit. "Before it wakes up again!" he exclaimed and yanked on her wrist. She nodded then and the two hastily started running again. But the cat demon slowly began to rise to its feet and its red eyes turned black with fury.
"What could the riddle possibly mean?" Momiji wondered as she stared up at the ceiling with a frown. "Maybe I should try and analyze everything Danjuro said." Momiji groaned, however. "But that would take forever!" She let out another groan and turned on her side in bed.
"Well, let's see," she began after a moment, trying to be cheerier, "he talked a lot about women. But he said all that was idle prattle. But did he really mean that?" Momiji sighed in dejection. "He says he's going to rip out Yusuke's heart. But he didn't mean it physically; he meant it…metaphorically, I guess. So heart must mean…love? He's going to rip out Yusuke's love? So Yusuke won't…love anymore? Or maybe it means he won't HAVE love anymore….either way, it doesn't really make much sense. Not really, anyway…" Momiji turned onto her other side.
"Well, what else did he say?" she wondered aloud. "He made fun of Yusuke being in my school uniform a lot." Momiji scrunched up her eyebrows. "I don't think that really had to do with anything…although he did say that it was because women make men weak…"
Momiji sat up suddenly with a gasp, the pieces unexpectedly starting to fall into place. "And men are willing to do anything for the women they love, even die for them…or kill themselves!" She threw the blankets off of her and stood up. "And Danjuro did mean love when he said heart! But its not that Yusuke won't love anymore-its that he will lose the one person he cares about most in the whole world and is willing to kill himself for! He's going after Keiko!"
Serena groggily fumbled for the ringing phone. "Hello?" she mumbled lazily into the receiver.
"Keiko!" Momiji's voice exclaimed frantically. "Danjuro's going after Keiko!"
"What?!" Serena asked, finding herself wide-awake and shooting up in bed.
"We have to tell Yusuke!" Momiji cried.
"Right!" Serena agreed. "We have to!"
"So, what's his number?" Momiji asked urgently.
"It's-" Serena stopped, however, realizing she didn't actually have an answer for that. "Uh…"
"Serena!"
"Well, don't you know?!" Serena question in a panic.
"No! I thought you would!" Momiji cried. "That's why I called!"
"Why would he give me his number?! He doesn't even like me!" Serena exclaimed.
"I don't know! I guess it was just wishful thinking!" There was a moment of panicked silence before Momiji asked, "Well, what are we going to do?!"
"Uh…I know!" Serena eyes brightened with an idea and she rushed to her desk. "The phonebook!"
"Right! Good idea, Serena!" Momiji cried hopefully. However, when Serena opened up the phone book, she frowned.
"Wow, there sure are a lot of Urameshis in Tokyo…" Serena noticed as she scanned the phonebook.
"How many's a lot?" Momiji asked nervously.
"Uh, five pages…"
"Five pages?!"
"Well, there's an add on one that kind of takes up half of a page…" Serena told Momiji optimistically.
"But we can't call every number!"
"A lot of them don't have numbers listed, actually…only addresses…" Serena pointed out.
"But Serena!"
"I know!" Serena exclaimed, getting another idea. "We know the general AREA of where Yusuke lives, right?"
"I guess so…" Momiji reluctantly answered.
"So, we'll go there and check the addresses there!" Serena suggested. Momiji frowned
"I don't know, Serena…we're not REALLY sure…"
"And maybe you'll sense where he is with your blue seed!" Serena added hopefully.
"Maybe…"
"Well, we have to do something!" Serena exclaimed in frustration. "Or Keiko will…" Serena's voice trailed off solemnly.
"You're right, Serena!" Momiji decided firmly. "There's no time to lose! We'll meet in front of the ice-cream shop! The one that Mr. Kunakida took us to! Remember?"
"Yes, I remember! I'll start heading there now!" Serena replied. "Bye, Momiji!"
"See you soon, Serena!" Hanging up, Serena quickly threw a jacket over her pajamas and, phonebook in hand, left to meet Momiji.
Keiko tried her best to keep up with Kusanagi as he pulled her along by the wrist. He then quickly darted into a dark alleyway, Keiko following him, and then halted, releasing Keiko's wrist. Keiko sighed and leaned against the wall, trying to catch her breath and rubbing her wrist that was a bit sore from Kusanagi's tight grip.
"I think we lost it…for now," Kusanagi told Keiko and Keiko frowned.
"But what are we going to do? We've been running for over an hour now…we can't run forever," Keiko said solemnly.
"Jeez, hell if I know!" Kusanagi exclaimed in frustration. He then began to scold himself, "I don't know why I bother getting myself mixed up in these things, anyway! I'm supposed to be protecting the Kushinada not some girl who got some stupid cat beast pissed off! Just because a girl's got a nice rack, doesn't mean I-"
"Kushinada?" Keiko questioned in puzzlement. "What's that?"
Kusanagi now turned to her. "Ah…no need to worry about that," he said quickly. "What you ought to be worrying about is that demon's trying to kill you. You sure you have NO idea?" Keiko shook her head.
"No, not at all," she answered sincerely.
"Well, it sure is strange that a demon would be so hell-bent on killing a cute girl like you," Kusanagi concluded.
"I wish we knew how to get rid of it," Keiko said quietly, lowering her eyes to her feet.
"Don't worry; I'll think of something," Kusanagi answered cockily and then mumbled, "At least, I hope so." He then let out a small gasp and raised his head attentively.
"What is it?" Keiko asked warily, stepping away from the wall fearfully.
"Sh!" Kusanagi ordered. "Stay behind me." Keiko nodded and obeyed. Kusanagi then lifted his arm blade and set his cat eyes on the alleyway entrance, which lay in shadow. A stillness surrounded them both which made Keiko feel uneasy and she stepped closer to Kusanagi. And then, she had a sudden sense of something from behind her, as if something were watching her, ready to pounce. Slowly, she turned her head…
"Behind us!" she cried out and Kusanagi immediately spun around.
"How the hell did it get back there?!" he questioned as the beast charged forward. Shoving Keiko behind him, Kusanagi ripping his plant blade once more through the throat of the cat demon, this time decapitating it. Keiko let out a shrill cry at the sight as she fell backwards, landing on her backside with a thud. She put her hand to her mouth at the grotesque sight of the decapitated cat demon, face growing pale and feeling nauseous.
"Let's see it try and come back after that!" Kusanagi exclaimed proudly. But, after a moment, the head of the beast formed again on the body, the original head disintegrating into dust. Kusanagi's eyes widened in horror as he stepped back. "Damn it! How do we kill this thing?!" The beast now rose on its hind legs, hissing vehemently at Kusanagi, baring both fangs and claws. Kusanagi narrowed his eyes and stabbed the beast hastily in the heart, causing it to slump to the ground again, dead for the time being. Knowing that they only had a couple moments left before the beast rose again, he darted to the terrified Keiko and swiftly took her by the wrist once more, pulling her off her feet.
"Come on!" he told her urgently and she somehow found the strength and courage to move again, for she began running with him out of the alleyway, the cat demon awaking once more.
"Hello? I'm looking for a Yusuke Urameshi," Momiji spoke into the payphone, in her pajamas. Serena, in her pajamas as well, sat outside the phone booth, studying the phonebook that lay in her lap.
"Who?" the man on the other line questioned in irritation. "Do you have any idea what time it is?"
"Yes, I know," Momiji answered quickly, "and I'm sorry. It's just that it's really important and-"
"Is this some type of joke? Calling in the middle of the night when people are trying to get a decent night's sleep-"
"No, sir, it's not a joke," Momiji cut in desperately. "I just need to speak to Yusuke Urameshi. One of his friends is in trouble and-"
"Yusuke?" the man interrogated in aggravation. "There isn't any Yusuke here, so don't try calling again."
"But-" The man then hung up before Momiji got the chance to question him further. She sighed in disappointment, placing the phone on the receiver and stepped out of the phone booth.
"No luck?" Serena asked and Momiji shook her head.
"No…unfortunately…" she answered glumly. "This really is hopeless. It's almost midnight and we're still on A!"
"We can't give up yet!" Serena insisted and turned to the phone book. "Now, do you think Yamatari Street is too far away?" Momiji thought about it for a moment.
"Yeah…I think so…"
"Okay, then, the next one listed is Atsuko Urameshi!" Serena exclaimed, rising to her feet.
"Does it have a phone number?" Serena shook her head.
"No, but it has the address," she answered. Momiji frowned in dismay. Serena sighed and then attempted to perk up her melancholy friend. "Come on, Momiji! No need to worry just yet! I've got a good feeling about this one!"
"But…Serena…say if we don't find him in time?" Momiji asked. "Then it'll be my fault if Keiko-"
"Don't say that, Momiji!" Serena interrupted. "It won't be your fault! It will be that jerk, Danjuro's fault! Besides, I just know we'll find him in time!" Serena went to turn, ready to go to there next destination, but Momiji spoke up again.
"But that's the other problem, Serena; what am I supposed to tell him? Danjuro said that the only way for Keiko to be all right was if he killed himself, but I couldn't possibly tell him to do that!"
"You worry too much, Momiji!" Serena exclaimed, taking Momiji by the arm. "We can figure that out later! Besides, Yusuke will just take that spirit gun of his and blast whatever seems to be bothering Keiko, anyway! So, come on!" And with that, Serena gave Momiji a yank of the arm and the two girls were on their way again to Atsuko Urameshi's.
Yusuke grumbled groggily as he rose from his bed, the sound of loud, obnoxious knocking from his front door waking him. "Mom probably got drunk again and forgot what she did with the key," he muttered to himself in annoyance as he made his way to the door.
"All right! I'm coming! I'm coming!" Yusuke shouted as he reached the door, starting to unlock it. "Jeez, you don't have to be so loud, mom! You're going to wake up the whole neighborhood!" He yawned and rubbed his eyes and then opened the door.
To his surprise, he did not see his mother, but instead a frantic Momiji and Serena in their pajamas. They rushed into his apartment in a panic, Momiji more so than Serena, as Yusuke now found himself wide awake.
"What the hell are you two doing here?!" Yusuke shouted. "How the hell do you know where I live?!"
"We went through all the Urameshi's in the phonebook!" Serena exclaimed, holding up the book. "Boy, we sure are lucky that your mom's first name starts with A! Atsuko is your mom, right?"
"Yeah, but-what the hell are you doing here?!" Yusuke questioned again, completely dumbfounded by their unexpected arrival at his doorstep.
"Keiko! Keiko's in trouble!" Momiji cried out taking hold of Yusuke's shoulders.
"What?!" Yusuke questioned in horror. Momiji then began talking a mile a minute.
"That jerk Danjuro talked to me this afternoon and he gave me this riddle and I finally figured it out a couple of hours ago and it meant that he was going to try and kill Keiko if you don't stop interfering with the Baken-Ai and Torazo, meaning that he wants you to kill yourself otherwise he's going to have Keiko killed, but I don't want you to kill yourself, but you have to save Keiko, and I'm sorry I didn't say anything sooner, but I wanted to try and figure the riddle out on my own, and I didn't know it had anything to do with Keiko, because if I did, I would have told you, but all I knew was that it had something to do with ripping out your heart, but I didn't want to worry you, and all I know is that you have to save Keiko without killing yourself, but some other way, but me and Serena don't really know where she is, and I'm so sorry that I didn't tell you right away, so please forgive me!" She lowered her head, trying to catch her breath. Yusuke was now more confused than before.
"You're forgiven, I guess," Yusuke said quickly, staring at Momiji in confusion.
"Thank you so much!" Momiji exclaimed happily and went to give him a hug, but he stopped her, firmly holding her down by placing his hands on her shoulders.
"But what do you mean Keiko's in trouble?" Yusuke questioned her urgently.
"It's just like I said!" Momiji cried. "Danjuro plans on killing her if you don't kill yourself first!"
"Because if you're dead then Danjuro doesn't have to worry about you killing the Baken-Ai!" Serena added, clarifying for Yusuke.
"And you don't know where Keiko is?" Yusuke asked.
"Well…I'm guessing she'd be at home, wherever that is…" Momiji answered meekly. Yusuke narrowed his eyes in both fury and determination as he went toward the door, planning to head toward Keiko's, his blood boiling and murder in his eyes. However, a sudden blue glow came from Momiji and all his anger left him for a moment as he turned to her. Serena looked to her as well.
"I think I know where Keiko is…" Momiji answered slowly as she stared down at the glow herself.
"It's about time your blue seed kicked in!" Serena declared. Yusuke narrowed his eyes once more.
"Lead the way."
Just a little bit further, Momiji thought to herself, her blue seed glowing brighter as she led the way for Yusuke and Serena. She turned the corner to see Keiko running, the glow from her blue seed ceasing.
"There she is!" Momiji cried, pointing forward. Her eyes then widened in puzzlement as she noticed who she was running with. "With…Kusanagi?!"
"WHAT?!" Yusuke questioned, more angry than before as he stepped in front of Momiji. He clenched his fists furiously, gritting his teeth and glaring at Kusanagi with a glint of murder in his eyes. "That…that asshole!"
"Uh-oh," Serena whispered to Momiji as Yusuke, in a sudden rage, began marching toward Keiko, who's hand was clamped onto Kusanagi's.
"Hey!" Yusuke shouted ferociously as he approached them, immediately pulling Keiko from Kusanagi. "What the hell do you think you're doing with Keiko?!" he interrogated Kusanagi fiercely.
"No, no, Yusuke!" Keiko tried to explain. "This is Kusanagi! He saved me from-"
"Wait a second," Kusanagi interrupted in shock. "You mean, you two KNOW each other?"
"YES," Yusuke answered irritably.
"Why do you ask?" Keiko asked, the pieces slowly falling together in Keiko's mind. "Wait…you mean, you know Yusuke, too, Kusanagi?" Kusanagi now began snickering obnoxiously.
"Well, what do you know!" he began. "To think the kid's actually got a pretty decent girl with a pretty decent rack!" Keiko's face turned pink with embarrassment as Yusuke's face flared red in rage.
"I'll kill you, you bastard!" Yusuke shouted, unable to control his anger any longer and nearly went to lunge on Kusanagi if Keiko hadn't been there to hold him back.
"Yusuke!" Keiko tried to protest as Kusanagi threw his head back and started laughing loudly at Yusuke's expense. Then, to Momiji's surprise, her blue seed began glowing again.
"What now?" she asked aloud. Then Serena let out a cry as she noticed a cat beast charging toward them. Momiji gasped and jumped out of the way, as did Serena, Serena clinging onto Momiji, trembling in fear.
"What was that…?" she managed to squeak out.
"I don't know, but it's going toward Yusuke and the others…" Momiji answered as she looked at the shouting Yusuke, the pleading Keiko, and the snickering Kusanagi. Both girls gasped and looked at each other in realization.
"If you think I'm just going to let-"
"Yusuke!" both Serena and Momiji shouted, interrupting Yusuke.
"Huh?" Yusuke turned around.
"Guys!" Serena then cried out. "There's…er…something coming toward you!"
"Yeah!" Momiji chimed in. "You better stop fighting and start…running or something!"
Yusuke cringed, as he saw the cat beast darting forward and realizing he didn't have enough time to shoot his spirit gun before the demon was on top of him. So he quickly grabbed onto Keiko and jumped to the side, pulling her with him, Kusanagi jumping to the other side. The beast skidded to a halt and then spun about, glaring at Keiko with hungry eyes.
"Hey, kid, I suggest you start running," Kusanagi told Yusuke then. "That thing can't be killed."
"Kusanagi's right; he tried and it just doesn't work," Keiko added.
"What? Why not?" Yusuke questioned.
"Hell if I know," Kusanagi answered. "All I know is that that beast is after your girlfriend."
"She's NOT my girlfriend!"
"Yusuke!" Keiko cried as the beast went to pounce on her. Anger filled Yusuke's face as he stepped in front of the cat demon, it tackling him instead.
"I should transform!" Serena cried, but Momiji put an arm out in front of her to stop her.
"Wait!" she said. "Danjuro said something to me about cats…" She gasped, a revelation coming to her and she called out, "Kusanagi!"
"Oh, hey, Momiji!" he called back to her with a grin. "Didn't expect to see you out here!"
"Kusanagi, how many times did you kill that thing?"
"Uh…" he took a moment to think about this. "Five, I think."
"Five…cat's have nine lives; that's what Danjuro said!" Momiji stated. She then turned to Yusuke, who was still wrestling with the cat creature. "Yusuke! Cat's have nine lives! You only have to kill it four more times and it should be dead!"
Yusuke let out a growl of frustration as he finally kicked the demon off of him, the cat beast flying backwards and hitting into a wall with a screech.
"Four, huh?" Yusuke asked, as he rose from his knees to his feet, his face embittered with rage as he glared at the cat beast that was slowly standing up. He pointed his finger at the beast as a bright glow formed at the tip while the rest of his body began to glow wildly with energy. "Sorry, but I think I'm only going to need one." He then narrowed his eyes fiercely and said in a low, murderous voice, "No one messes with Keiko."
"Spirit Gun!" he shouted and a large burst of energy shot out of his finger, more energy than Momiji or Serena had seen come from Yusuke, and hit the beast. A blinding flash of light caused them all to shield their eyes, except for Yusuke, and a loud boom followed. Both Serena and Momiji blinked their eyes opened to see cat guts splattered all across the pavement and wall and each turned horribly pale, letting out a groan of equal disgust. Keiko quickly rushed up to Yusuke.
"Yusuke!" she cried in concern, as she took hold of his arm.
"Don't worry about me, Keiko," Yusuke told her. "Just don't tell Kuwabara, all right? I think he'd killed me if he found out I destroyed a stupid cat, even if it was a demon." She gave him a smile and nodded.
"Are you sure it's really dead?" Keiko asked looking at the remains of the demon warily. Yusuke studied them for a moment as well and then the remains disappeared, as they had did with the giant snake beast.
"Yep…I think so," he said resolutely.
"SO," Kusanagi then began, stepping on the other side of Yusuke and leaning his elbow on his shoulder, much to Yusuke's frustration. "One shot and you killed the thing. And I thought you'd need at least three more times. Impressive. I guess that means it's zero to three."
"I guess so," Yusuke said flatly, pushing away from Kusanagi in annoyance.
"BUT, I was thinking, kid," Kusanagi started again with a sly grin. "Saving your girl from certain death definitely beats out you killing three demons, wouldn't you say?" Yusuke's face turned red in both embarrassment and anger.
"Hey! That's not fair!" Yusuke protested, raising a fist. "Besides, she's not my-"
"Yusuke!" Keiko shouted furiously, giving him a punch in the shoulder. He turned to her seeing her glaring at him bitterly. "You mean to tell me, you think killing three stupid demons beats out saving MY life?!"
"I didn't say that…" Yusuke trailed off and frowned. He sighed in exasperation and finally said in reluctance, "Fine! I guess we're even." Kusanagi grinned.
"That suits me just fine," he said deviously and extended his hand. "But just to make sure, we shake on it." Yusuke grumbled a bit and Keiko gave him a nudge. Then, knowing he had no choice with Keiko there, he shook Kusanagi's hand. Kusanagi chuckled in triumph and then mussed Yusuke's hair patronizingly. "Now that's a good boy!" he teased as Yusuke just glowered and shoved Kusanagi's hand away. "You know, you're not so bad when you're not being a stubborn little prick."
"Hey!" Yusuke protested, but before he could say anymore, Keiko spoke up.
"But, Yusuke, how did you know to come out here and find me? And why was that demon trying to kill me in the first place?"
"Huh? Oh…it's a long story that I'm not exactly sure about myself," Yusuke answered, calming down a bit. "Ask Momiji about it." Momji's face turned bright pink then as everyone looked at her.
"Well…I…I thought I already explained it to you, Yusuke…" she stammered with an awkward chuckle. And as Momiji desperately tried to explain to them the riddle and such, Serena suddenly noticed something with the corner of her eye. She turned to see a figure standing in the shadows.
Is that…that little boy? Serena thought as she stared at him. The image grew clearer for a moment and she thought, it is!
The little boy, the one the first Baken-Ai was so desperate to kill, gave her a wide grin and a wave before fading into the shadows. Serena narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms.
I don't care what Momiji says, Serena thought. Kid or not, I still don't trust him!
COMING ATTRACTIONS:
Yusuke: Who does that damn Danjuro think he is, anyway? Messing with Keiko!
Momiji: I'm just glad that you and Kusanagi are friends now!
Yusuke: Friends?! Who said anything about us being friends?! We just made a truce, that's all!
Momiji: Oh…
Serena: But what now?
Yusuke: Well, we're finally going to get back on track in the next episode!
Momiji: You mean…?
Yusuke: The second Baken-Ai finally appears!
Serena: It's about time! But, wait a second! I have bigger things to worry about!
Momiji: Oh, no, Serena! You didn't!
Serena: Yes…I failed another test! Again! Why is life so unfair?!
Momiji: Well, maybe you can study harder next time…
Serena: But it's so hard to focus…
Yusuke: Well, it's not our fault that you're stupid!
Serena: Hey!
Momiji: That isn't very nice, Yusuke!
Serena: That's it! I'm going to give up on school! Live life without any restrictions! Become a delinquent! Like Yusuke!
Yusuke: WHAT?!
Serena: We'll be delinquent buddies! It'll be fun!
Yusuke: No way! Now, will you quit following me?!
Momiji: Um, guys…don't you think you two should be worrying about the second Baken-Ai?!
Serena: That's right! But don't worry; I'm on the job!
Yusuke: You? What the hell can you do?!
Serena: Plenty! Especially now that I've chosen a life of freedom!
Yusuke: It's my assignment!
Momiji: But I really don't think quitting school is the answer, Serena. Maybe just some hard work…
Serena: Don't be silly, Momiji! It's time for a change! So be prepared for the all-new, tough, butt-kicking Serena in the next all new-episode of "What's My Line Again…?," Episode 11:
Momiji: "The Same Strange Symbol! The Second Baken-Ai Appears! Serena…quits school?!"
Yusuke: Great…I'm going to have to spend the whole next episode with Serena, aren't I?
"That little brat is so annoying; that's probably why the Baken-Ai wanted to kill him so badly," Serena reasoned to Momiji over the phone. "Calling me ugly! How could he?! I mean, I never - "
"I'm sure he didn't mean it in a mean way," Momiji interrupted quickly and hastily changed the subject. "But what should I do about Danjuro and his riddle? Should I tell Yusuke?"
"I don't know…didn't Danjuro say to figure it out first?" Serena inquired.
"Yeah, but…should I really listen to him? I mean, he IS the bad guy," Momiji reminded her friend. "Besides, maybe Yusuke will have a better chance figuring it out."
"I guess so…" Serena agreed reluctantly.
"But I don't want to worry him," Momiji then added, noticing the lack of enthusiasm in Serena's voice.
"Yeah," Serena stated, voice becoming stern. "Besides, who says you need stupid Yusuke for, anyway? I bet you could solve this riddle on your own without his arrogant help!"
"Really?" Momiji asked hopefully. "You think so?"
"Sure, I think so!" Serena exclaimed wholeheartedly. "I mean, you're just as much a part of the team as he is, you know!"
"Well…thanks, Serena," Momiji said bashfully, face turning slightly pink. "You're right! Who needs Yusuke? I can figure this one out on my own!"
"That's the spirit, Momiji!"
"Right! I don't need anyone! I'm going to do this all by myself, without any help!" she declared resiliently. However, after an awkward moment of silence, she frowned and asked sheepishly, "So…what do you think it means?" Serena frowned as well.
"I don't know…I've never been very good at riddles."
"Neither have I," Momiji admitted. "I was thinking of just sleeping on it and maybe the answer will just sort of come to me."
"That sounds like a good plan," Serena agreed.
"Yeah, but what if the answer doesn't come to me before Danjuro rips out Yusuke's heart…or whatever he plans to do?"
"Uh…well, I'm sure that won't happen…" Serena insisted weakly and another awkward silence followed. Then, Serena asked, "What do you suppose that kid meant by me being next?"
"I don't know," Momiji answered with solemn sincerity. "That really is strange, Serena. But he is just a kid, after all. Maybe he was just making things up."
"Maybe…" Serena's voice trailed off into a yawn. "Well, I've got to go and get some rest. Call me tomorrow morning if you figure out Danjuro's riddle. Unless it's really important and then you can call me tonight. Unless it's not that important and all and then you can call me tomorrow afternoon because I probably will be running late tomorrow morning considering I never seem to get up in time…"
"Don't worry, Serena; I'll figure something out," Momiji assured her. "Bye."
"Bye." The two girls then hung up the phone.
Momiji then yawned herself and stretched out her arms. Already in her pajamas, she crawled into bed and turned off the light. Then, laying her head on her pillow, she stared up at the ceiling and frowned. As tired as she was, she found it impossible to sleep; she had to solve that riddle.
Keiko yawned as she stepped outside the library just as it closed, night having already fallen onto the city. "I shouldn't have stayed so late at the library," she thought aloud as she looked down at her watch. "It's already half past ten." She sighed. "Well, I better start walking home." Pulling her books close to her chest, she began walking home.
When she was passing the park, she suddenly heard a low humming noise, sort of like a purr. She stopped and listened warily. Glancing around in the dark night, she could see that no one was around but her and she suddenly felt very nervous. Clutching her books tighter, she began to walk again. Yet the purr came once more and she froze again. "Hello?" she called out weakly. "Is anyone there?" She could hear something moving about, though she was unsure from where. "I don't have any money, if that's what you want." No answer came, just the sound of low purring. Feeling herself begin to tremble and sensing that she was in some sort of danger, she glared about the darkness of the street. "Hello…?" she asked again and then suddenly felt something brush up against the back of her ankle. Letting out a gasp, she spun about and then fell backwards, hitting her rear end into the pavement and her books scattering beside her. Then, upon noticing a black cat in front of her, she sighed in relief and smiled.
"You sure did scare me, kitty," she said with a laugh and outstretching her hand to pet the cat. Scratching it behind the ear, she added good-naturedly, "Don't you know it's rude to sneak up on people like that? Nearly gave me a heart attack!" Exhaling, she gathered her books and stood up, brushing the dirt off the back of her skirt. "Well, good night, kitty." She then turned to leave.
Keiko let out a shrill scream of fright at the sight of a cat beast standing before her, hissing and yellow fangs bared. It was about six feet tall and stood like a person would, on two legs, it's black furry arms outstretched and fingers curled, claws ready to shred Keiko apart. It's red cat eyes glared at Keiko violently and it's ears were bit pointier than a cat's. Keiko stumbled back in fright and swallowed hard. "Nice kitty…" she said nervously, taking another cautious step back. But the cat demon just screeched louder and went to pounce. Keiko closed her eyes tightly, dropped her books, and let out another terrified scream, turning to flee although she knew she'd never out run the ferocious beast.
And then, all of a sudden, she found herself flying. She blinked her eyes open and looked up to see a dark skinned, grin haired man in a red jacket carrying her through the night sky. "Who-who are you?" she asked in a daze.
The man grinned charmingly and replied, "You can call me Kusanagi."
"Kusanagi?" Keiko questioned in confusion as they landed on the grass in the park. She thought, why does that sound so familiar…?
"And who might you be?" Kusanagi asked, releasing Keiko.
"Me?" she asked and then answered politely, "My name is Keiko."
"Well, Keiko, do you have any idea why that cat demon attacked you?"
"No, I don't," Keiko answered honestly. "I was walking home from the library and-"
Suddenly, the cat beast came charging forward and pounced on Keiko. Keiko let out a shrill cry and began pounding her fists up toward the demon. Yet it did no good; the cat beast was simply too strong. It raised its paw and struck her across the face, its claws slashing into her cheek, leaving three bleeding cuts. Keiko let out a sob. Kusanagi's face grew furious then and he tackled the cat demon, throwing it off Keiko and onto the grass a few yards from her. Then, pinning it down, a plant blade sprung from his forearm and he violently began to stab the beast. Keiko sat up with a stunned expression on her face and placed a hand to her throbbing cheek.
"Well, that ought to do the trick," Kusanagi said, standing up and brushing off his hands. He turned from the dead beast and to Keiko. "Are you all right?"
"I think so," she answered, as she gazed down at her fingertips that trickled with blood from her cheek. "I'm just bleeding a bit…"
"You're lucky I came along when I did," Kusanagi began, walking over to her and helping her up off the ground. "You would have been dead otherwise." He then put on a sly grin and added, "You're also lucky you're pretty developed, too, otherwise I might not have saved you either." Keiko's face boiled red.
"Pervert!" she cried and slapped him hard across the face. She then frowned, her face turning bright red with embarrassment. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to-well-"
"Jeez, you hit pretty hard for a girl!" Kusanagi exclaimed, interrupting her and rubbing the side of his face. "What, did you get practice or something?" Keiko blinked a few times in surprise.
"Well, now that I think about it," she began, folding her arms pensively and Yusuke coming to mind, "yes, actually."
"Well, it shows," Kusanagi muttered, still rubbing his sore cheek. Suddenly, a rustling noise came to his ear. "Huh?" He turned his head to look behind him and Keiko's eyes widened in curiosity. The cat demon suddenly began to rise from the ground, it's crushed body miraculously healing itself. Keiko gasped in horror, placing a hand to her mouth and stepping back. Kusanagi narrowed his eyes and gritted his teeth. The cat beast now stood on all fours and reared its toward them, flashing its red eyes in rage. It then jolted forward toward Keiko, but Kusanagi stepped in its way first, slashing his plant blade at the beast's throat. The beast let out a horrible screech as it stood on its back legs and staggered back. But as quickly as the blood appeared and splattered on the grass, the wound disappeared from the cat demon's throat.
"Why won't it die?" Keiko asked frantically.
"I don't know,' Kusanagi answered and charged for the beast again.
"Wait!" Keiko tried to protest, but it was too late; Kusanagi and the cat demon were wrestling again. The cat beast soon had Kusanagi pinned down to the grass.
"Run!" Kusanagi told Keiko then, but Keiko shook her head.
"But I can't just-"
"I said, go!" Kusanagi shouted and Keiko reluctantly complied, running as fast as she could, trying to find some sort of safe haven. But as soon as the cat demon saw her flee her leaped off Kusanagai and started darting for Keiko. Kusanagi looked up with severe eyes. "It really is after her…" Kusanagi then quickly followed after the beast.
Kusanagi stabbed the beast in the back when he caught up to it, killing it for a third time, and it slumped to the ground. Then, Kusanagi swiftly jumped over it and took Keiko's hand, who was trembling fearfully. "Come on!" he told her. She hesitated a bit. "Before it wakes up again!" he exclaimed and yanked on her wrist. She nodded then and the two hastily started running again. But the cat demon slowly began to rise to its feet and its red eyes turned black with fury.
"What could the riddle possibly mean?" Momiji wondered as she stared up at the ceiling with a frown. "Maybe I should try and analyze everything Danjuro said." Momiji groaned, however. "But that would take forever!" She let out another groan and turned on her side in bed.
"Well, let's see," she began after a moment, trying to be cheerier, "he talked a lot about women. But he said all that was idle prattle. But did he really mean that?" Momiji sighed in dejection. "He says he's going to rip out Yusuke's heart. But he didn't mean it physically; he meant it…metaphorically, I guess. So heart must mean…love? He's going to rip out Yusuke's love? So Yusuke won't…love anymore? Or maybe it means he won't HAVE love anymore….either way, it doesn't really make much sense. Not really, anyway…" Momiji turned onto her other side.
"Well, what else did he say?" she wondered aloud. "He made fun of Yusuke being in my school uniform a lot." Momiji scrunched up her eyebrows. "I don't think that really had to do with anything…although he did say that it was because women make men weak…"
Momiji sat up suddenly with a gasp, the pieces unexpectedly starting to fall into place. "And men are willing to do anything for the women they love, even die for them…or kill themselves!" She threw the blankets off of her and stood up. "And Danjuro did mean love when he said heart! But its not that Yusuke won't love anymore-its that he will lose the one person he cares about most in the whole world and is willing to kill himself for! He's going after Keiko!"
Serena groggily fumbled for the ringing phone. "Hello?" she mumbled lazily into the receiver.
"Keiko!" Momiji's voice exclaimed frantically. "Danjuro's going after Keiko!"
"What?!" Serena asked, finding herself wide-awake and shooting up in bed.
"We have to tell Yusuke!" Momiji cried.
"Right!" Serena agreed. "We have to!"
"So, what's his number?" Momiji asked urgently.
"It's-" Serena stopped, however, realizing she didn't actually have an answer for that. "Uh…"
"Serena!"
"Well, don't you know?!" Serena question in a panic.
"No! I thought you would!" Momiji cried. "That's why I called!"
"Why would he give me his number?! He doesn't even like me!" Serena exclaimed.
"I don't know! I guess it was just wishful thinking!" There was a moment of panicked silence before Momiji asked, "Well, what are we going to do?!"
"Uh…I know!" Serena eyes brightened with an idea and she rushed to her desk. "The phonebook!"
"Right! Good idea, Serena!" Momiji cried hopefully. However, when Serena opened up the phone book, she frowned.
"Wow, there sure are a lot of Urameshis in Tokyo…" Serena noticed as she scanned the phonebook.
"How many's a lot?" Momiji asked nervously.
"Uh, five pages…"
"Five pages?!"
"Well, there's an add on one that kind of takes up half of a page…" Serena told Momiji optimistically.
"But we can't call every number!"
"A lot of them don't have numbers listed, actually…only addresses…" Serena pointed out.
"But Serena!"
"I know!" Serena exclaimed, getting another idea. "We know the general AREA of where Yusuke lives, right?"
"I guess so…" Momiji reluctantly answered.
"So, we'll go there and check the addresses there!" Serena suggested. Momiji frowned
"I don't know, Serena…we're not REALLY sure…"
"And maybe you'll sense where he is with your blue seed!" Serena added hopefully.
"Maybe…"
"Well, we have to do something!" Serena exclaimed in frustration. "Or Keiko will…" Serena's voice trailed off solemnly.
"You're right, Serena!" Momiji decided firmly. "There's no time to lose! We'll meet in front of the ice-cream shop! The one that Mr. Kunakida took us to! Remember?"
"Yes, I remember! I'll start heading there now!" Serena replied. "Bye, Momiji!"
"See you soon, Serena!" Hanging up, Serena quickly threw a jacket over her pajamas and, phonebook in hand, left to meet Momiji.
Keiko tried her best to keep up with Kusanagi as he pulled her along by the wrist. He then quickly darted into a dark alleyway, Keiko following him, and then halted, releasing Keiko's wrist. Keiko sighed and leaned against the wall, trying to catch her breath and rubbing her wrist that was a bit sore from Kusanagi's tight grip.
"I think we lost it…for now," Kusanagi told Keiko and Keiko frowned.
"But what are we going to do? We've been running for over an hour now…we can't run forever," Keiko said solemnly.
"Jeez, hell if I know!" Kusanagi exclaimed in frustration. He then began to scold himself, "I don't know why I bother getting myself mixed up in these things, anyway! I'm supposed to be protecting the Kushinada not some girl who got some stupid cat beast pissed off! Just because a girl's got a nice rack, doesn't mean I-"
"Kushinada?" Keiko questioned in puzzlement. "What's that?"
Kusanagi now turned to her. "Ah…no need to worry about that," he said quickly. "What you ought to be worrying about is that demon's trying to kill you. You sure you have NO idea?" Keiko shook her head.
"No, not at all," she answered sincerely.
"Well, it sure is strange that a demon would be so hell-bent on killing a cute girl like you," Kusanagi concluded.
"I wish we knew how to get rid of it," Keiko said quietly, lowering her eyes to her feet.
"Don't worry; I'll think of something," Kusanagi answered cockily and then mumbled, "At least, I hope so." He then let out a small gasp and raised his head attentively.
"What is it?" Keiko asked warily, stepping away from the wall fearfully.
"Sh!" Kusanagi ordered. "Stay behind me." Keiko nodded and obeyed. Kusanagi then lifted his arm blade and set his cat eyes on the alleyway entrance, which lay in shadow. A stillness surrounded them both which made Keiko feel uneasy and she stepped closer to Kusanagi. And then, she had a sudden sense of something from behind her, as if something were watching her, ready to pounce. Slowly, she turned her head…
"Behind us!" she cried out and Kusanagi immediately spun around.
"How the hell did it get back there?!" he questioned as the beast charged forward. Shoving Keiko behind him, Kusanagi ripping his plant blade once more through the throat of the cat demon, this time decapitating it. Keiko let out a shrill cry at the sight as she fell backwards, landing on her backside with a thud. She put her hand to her mouth at the grotesque sight of the decapitated cat demon, face growing pale and feeling nauseous.
"Let's see it try and come back after that!" Kusanagi exclaimed proudly. But, after a moment, the head of the beast formed again on the body, the original head disintegrating into dust. Kusanagi's eyes widened in horror as he stepped back. "Damn it! How do we kill this thing?!" The beast now rose on its hind legs, hissing vehemently at Kusanagi, baring both fangs and claws. Kusanagi narrowed his eyes and stabbed the beast hastily in the heart, causing it to slump to the ground again, dead for the time being. Knowing that they only had a couple moments left before the beast rose again, he darted to the terrified Keiko and swiftly took her by the wrist once more, pulling her off her feet.
"Come on!" he told her urgently and she somehow found the strength and courage to move again, for she began running with him out of the alleyway, the cat demon awaking once more.
"Hello? I'm looking for a Yusuke Urameshi," Momiji spoke into the payphone, in her pajamas. Serena, in her pajamas as well, sat outside the phone booth, studying the phonebook that lay in her lap.
"Who?" the man on the other line questioned in irritation. "Do you have any idea what time it is?"
"Yes, I know," Momiji answered quickly, "and I'm sorry. It's just that it's really important and-"
"Is this some type of joke? Calling in the middle of the night when people are trying to get a decent night's sleep-"
"No, sir, it's not a joke," Momiji cut in desperately. "I just need to speak to Yusuke Urameshi. One of his friends is in trouble and-"
"Yusuke?" the man interrogated in aggravation. "There isn't any Yusuke here, so don't try calling again."
"But-" The man then hung up before Momiji got the chance to question him further. She sighed in disappointment, placing the phone on the receiver and stepped out of the phone booth.
"No luck?" Serena asked and Momiji shook her head.
"No…unfortunately…" she answered glumly. "This really is hopeless. It's almost midnight and we're still on A!"
"We can't give up yet!" Serena insisted and turned to the phone book. "Now, do you think Yamatari Street is too far away?" Momiji thought about it for a moment.
"Yeah…I think so…"
"Okay, then, the next one listed is Atsuko Urameshi!" Serena exclaimed, rising to her feet.
"Does it have a phone number?" Serena shook her head.
"No, but it has the address," she answered. Momiji frowned in dismay. Serena sighed and then attempted to perk up her melancholy friend. "Come on, Momiji! No need to worry just yet! I've got a good feeling about this one!"
"But…Serena…say if we don't find him in time?" Momiji asked. "Then it'll be my fault if Keiko-"
"Don't say that, Momiji!" Serena interrupted. "It won't be your fault! It will be that jerk, Danjuro's fault! Besides, I just know we'll find him in time!" Serena went to turn, ready to go to there next destination, but Momiji spoke up again.
"But that's the other problem, Serena; what am I supposed to tell him? Danjuro said that the only way for Keiko to be all right was if he killed himself, but I couldn't possibly tell him to do that!"
"You worry too much, Momiji!" Serena exclaimed, taking Momiji by the arm. "We can figure that out later! Besides, Yusuke will just take that spirit gun of his and blast whatever seems to be bothering Keiko, anyway! So, come on!" And with that, Serena gave Momiji a yank of the arm and the two girls were on their way again to Atsuko Urameshi's.
Yusuke grumbled groggily as he rose from his bed, the sound of loud, obnoxious knocking from his front door waking him. "Mom probably got drunk again and forgot what she did with the key," he muttered to himself in annoyance as he made his way to the door.
"All right! I'm coming! I'm coming!" Yusuke shouted as he reached the door, starting to unlock it. "Jeez, you don't have to be so loud, mom! You're going to wake up the whole neighborhood!" He yawned and rubbed his eyes and then opened the door.
To his surprise, he did not see his mother, but instead a frantic Momiji and Serena in their pajamas. They rushed into his apartment in a panic, Momiji more so than Serena, as Yusuke now found himself wide awake.
"What the hell are you two doing here?!" Yusuke shouted. "How the hell do you know where I live?!"
"We went through all the Urameshi's in the phonebook!" Serena exclaimed, holding up the book. "Boy, we sure are lucky that your mom's first name starts with A! Atsuko is your mom, right?"
"Yeah, but-what the hell are you doing here?!" Yusuke questioned again, completely dumbfounded by their unexpected arrival at his doorstep.
"Keiko! Keiko's in trouble!" Momiji cried out taking hold of Yusuke's shoulders.
"What?!" Yusuke questioned in horror. Momiji then began talking a mile a minute.
"That jerk Danjuro talked to me this afternoon and he gave me this riddle and I finally figured it out a couple of hours ago and it meant that he was going to try and kill Keiko if you don't stop interfering with the Baken-Ai and Torazo, meaning that he wants you to kill yourself otherwise he's going to have Keiko killed, but I don't want you to kill yourself, but you have to save Keiko, and I'm sorry I didn't say anything sooner, but I wanted to try and figure the riddle out on my own, and I didn't know it had anything to do with Keiko, because if I did, I would have told you, but all I knew was that it had something to do with ripping out your heart, but I didn't want to worry you, and all I know is that you have to save Keiko without killing yourself, but some other way, but me and Serena don't really know where she is, and I'm so sorry that I didn't tell you right away, so please forgive me!" She lowered her head, trying to catch her breath. Yusuke was now more confused than before.
"You're forgiven, I guess," Yusuke said quickly, staring at Momiji in confusion.
"Thank you so much!" Momiji exclaimed happily and went to give him a hug, but he stopped her, firmly holding her down by placing his hands on her shoulders.
"But what do you mean Keiko's in trouble?" Yusuke questioned her urgently.
"It's just like I said!" Momiji cried. "Danjuro plans on killing her if you don't kill yourself first!"
"Because if you're dead then Danjuro doesn't have to worry about you killing the Baken-Ai!" Serena added, clarifying for Yusuke.
"And you don't know where Keiko is?" Yusuke asked.
"Well…I'm guessing she'd be at home, wherever that is…" Momiji answered meekly. Yusuke narrowed his eyes in both fury and determination as he went toward the door, planning to head toward Keiko's, his blood boiling and murder in his eyes. However, a sudden blue glow came from Momiji and all his anger left him for a moment as he turned to her. Serena looked to her as well.
"I think I know where Keiko is…" Momiji answered slowly as she stared down at the glow herself.
"It's about time your blue seed kicked in!" Serena declared. Yusuke narrowed his eyes once more.
"Lead the way."
Just a little bit further, Momiji thought to herself, her blue seed glowing brighter as she led the way for Yusuke and Serena. She turned the corner to see Keiko running, the glow from her blue seed ceasing.
"There she is!" Momiji cried, pointing forward. Her eyes then widened in puzzlement as she noticed who she was running with. "With…Kusanagi?!"
"WHAT?!" Yusuke questioned, more angry than before as he stepped in front of Momiji. He clenched his fists furiously, gritting his teeth and glaring at Kusanagi with a glint of murder in his eyes. "That…that asshole!"
"Uh-oh," Serena whispered to Momiji as Yusuke, in a sudden rage, began marching toward Keiko, who's hand was clamped onto Kusanagi's.
"Hey!" Yusuke shouted ferociously as he approached them, immediately pulling Keiko from Kusanagi. "What the hell do you think you're doing with Keiko?!" he interrogated Kusanagi fiercely.
"No, no, Yusuke!" Keiko tried to explain. "This is Kusanagi! He saved me from-"
"Wait a second," Kusanagi interrupted in shock. "You mean, you two KNOW each other?"
"YES," Yusuke answered irritably.
"Why do you ask?" Keiko asked, the pieces slowly falling together in Keiko's mind. "Wait…you mean, you know Yusuke, too, Kusanagi?" Kusanagi now began snickering obnoxiously.
"Well, what do you know!" he began. "To think the kid's actually got a pretty decent girl with a pretty decent rack!" Keiko's face turned pink with embarrassment as Yusuke's face flared red in rage.
"I'll kill you, you bastard!" Yusuke shouted, unable to control his anger any longer and nearly went to lunge on Kusanagi if Keiko hadn't been there to hold him back.
"Yusuke!" Keiko tried to protest as Kusanagi threw his head back and started laughing loudly at Yusuke's expense. Then, to Momiji's surprise, her blue seed began glowing again.
"What now?" she asked aloud. Then Serena let out a cry as she noticed a cat beast charging toward them. Momiji gasped and jumped out of the way, as did Serena, Serena clinging onto Momiji, trembling in fear.
"What was that…?" she managed to squeak out.
"I don't know, but it's going toward Yusuke and the others…" Momiji answered as she looked at the shouting Yusuke, the pleading Keiko, and the snickering Kusanagi. Both girls gasped and looked at each other in realization.
"If you think I'm just going to let-"
"Yusuke!" both Serena and Momiji shouted, interrupting Yusuke.
"Huh?" Yusuke turned around.
"Guys!" Serena then cried out. "There's…er…something coming toward you!"
"Yeah!" Momiji chimed in. "You better stop fighting and start…running or something!"
Yusuke cringed, as he saw the cat beast darting forward and realizing he didn't have enough time to shoot his spirit gun before the demon was on top of him. So he quickly grabbed onto Keiko and jumped to the side, pulling her with him, Kusanagi jumping to the other side. The beast skidded to a halt and then spun about, glaring at Keiko with hungry eyes.
"Hey, kid, I suggest you start running," Kusanagi told Yusuke then. "That thing can't be killed."
"Kusanagi's right; he tried and it just doesn't work," Keiko added.
"What? Why not?" Yusuke questioned.
"Hell if I know," Kusanagi answered. "All I know is that that beast is after your girlfriend."
"She's NOT my girlfriend!"
"Yusuke!" Keiko cried as the beast went to pounce on her. Anger filled Yusuke's face as he stepped in front of the cat demon, it tackling him instead.
"I should transform!" Serena cried, but Momiji put an arm out in front of her to stop her.
"Wait!" she said. "Danjuro said something to me about cats…" She gasped, a revelation coming to her and she called out, "Kusanagi!"
"Oh, hey, Momiji!" he called back to her with a grin. "Didn't expect to see you out here!"
"Kusanagi, how many times did you kill that thing?"
"Uh…" he took a moment to think about this. "Five, I think."
"Five…cat's have nine lives; that's what Danjuro said!" Momiji stated. She then turned to Yusuke, who was still wrestling with the cat creature. "Yusuke! Cat's have nine lives! You only have to kill it four more times and it should be dead!"
Yusuke let out a growl of frustration as he finally kicked the demon off of him, the cat beast flying backwards and hitting into a wall with a screech.
"Four, huh?" Yusuke asked, as he rose from his knees to his feet, his face embittered with rage as he glared at the cat beast that was slowly standing up. He pointed his finger at the beast as a bright glow formed at the tip while the rest of his body began to glow wildly with energy. "Sorry, but I think I'm only going to need one." He then narrowed his eyes fiercely and said in a low, murderous voice, "No one messes with Keiko."
"Spirit Gun!" he shouted and a large burst of energy shot out of his finger, more energy than Momiji or Serena had seen come from Yusuke, and hit the beast. A blinding flash of light caused them all to shield their eyes, except for Yusuke, and a loud boom followed. Both Serena and Momiji blinked their eyes opened to see cat guts splattered all across the pavement and wall and each turned horribly pale, letting out a groan of equal disgust. Keiko quickly rushed up to Yusuke.
"Yusuke!" she cried in concern, as she took hold of his arm.
"Don't worry about me, Keiko," Yusuke told her. "Just don't tell Kuwabara, all right? I think he'd killed me if he found out I destroyed a stupid cat, even if it was a demon." She gave him a smile and nodded.
"Are you sure it's really dead?" Keiko asked looking at the remains of the demon warily. Yusuke studied them for a moment as well and then the remains disappeared, as they had did with the giant snake beast.
"Yep…I think so," he said resolutely.
"SO," Kusanagi then began, stepping on the other side of Yusuke and leaning his elbow on his shoulder, much to Yusuke's frustration. "One shot and you killed the thing. And I thought you'd need at least three more times. Impressive. I guess that means it's zero to three."
"I guess so," Yusuke said flatly, pushing away from Kusanagi in annoyance.
"BUT, I was thinking, kid," Kusanagi started again with a sly grin. "Saving your girl from certain death definitely beats out you killing three demons, wouldn't you say?" Yusuke's face turned red in both embarrassment and anger.
"Hey! That's not fair!" Yusuke protested, raising a fist. "Besides, she's not my-"
"Yusuke!" Keiko shouted furiously, giving him a punch in the shoulder. He turned to her seeing her glaring at him bitterly. "You mean to tell me, you think killing three stupid demons beats out saving MY life?!"
"I didn't say that…" Yusuke trailed off and frowned. He sighed in exasperation and finally said in reluctance, "Fine! I guess we're even." Kusanagi grinned.
"That suits me just fine," he said deviously and extended his hand. "But just to make sure, we shake on it." Yusuke grumbled a bit and Keiko gave him a nudge. Then, knowing he had no choice with Keiko there, he shook Kusanagi's hand. Kusanagi chuckled in triumph and then mussed Yusuke's hair patronizingly. "Now that's a good boy!" he teased as Yusuke just glowered and shoved Kusanagi's hand away. "You know, you're not so bad when you're not being a stubborn little prick."
"Hey!" Yusuke protested, but before he could say anymore, Keiko spoke up.
"But, Yusuke, how did you know to come out here and find me? And why was that demon trying to kill me in the first place?"
"Huh? Oh…it's a long story that I'm not exactly sure about myself," Yusuke answered, calming down a bit. "Ask Momiji about it." Momji's face turned bright pink then as everyone looked at her.
"Well…I…I thought I already explained it to you, Yusuke…" she stammered with an awkward chuckle. And as Momiji desperately tried to explain to them the riddle and such, Serena suddenly noticed something with the corner of her eye. She turned to see a figure standing in the shadows.
Is that…that little boy? Serena thought as she stared at him. The image grew clearer for a moment and she thought, it is!
The little boy, the one the first Baken-Ai was so desperate to kill, gave her a wide grin and a wave before fading into the shadows. Serena narrowed her eyes and crossed her arms.
I don't care what Momiji says, Serena thought. Kid or not, I still don't trust him!
COMING ATTRACTIONS:
Yusuke: Who does that damn Danjuro think he is, anyway? Messing with Keiko!
Momiji: I'm just glad that you and Kusanagi are friends now!
Yusuke: Friends?! Who said anything about us being friends?! We just made a truce, that's all!
Momiji: Oh…
Serena: But what now?
Yusuke: Well, we're finally going to get back on track in the next episode!
Momiji: You mean…?
Yusuke: The second Baken-Ai finally appears!
Serena: It's about time! But, wait a second! I have bigger things to worry about!
Momiji: Oh, no, Serena! You didn't!
Serena: Yes…I failed another test! Again! Why is life so unfair?!
Momiji: Well, maybe you can study harder next time…
Serena: But it's so hard to focus…
Yusuke: Well, it's not our fault that you're stupid!
Serena: Hey!
Momiji: That isn't very nice, Yusuke!
Serena: That's it! I'm going to give up on school! Live life without any restrictions! Become a delinquent! Like Yusuke!
Yusuke: WHAT?!
Serena: We'll be delinquent buddies! It'll be fun!
Yusuke: No way! Now, will you quit following me?!
Momiji: Um, guys…don't you think you two should be worrying about the second Baken-Ai?!
Serena: That's right! But don't worry; I'm on the job!
Yusuke: You? What the hell can you do?!
Serena: Plenty! Especially now that I've chosen a life of freedom!
Yusuke: It's my assignment!
Momiji: But I really don't think quitting school is the answer, Serena. Maybe just some hard work…
Serena: Don't be silly, Momiji! It's time for a change! So be prepared for the all-new, tough, butt-kicking Serena in the next all new-episode of "What's My Line Again…?," Episode 11:
Momiji: "The Same Strange Symbol! The Second Baken-Ai Appears! Serena…quits school?!"
Yusuke: Great…I'm going to have to spend the whole next episode with Serena, aren't I?