A.N. While working on the latest chapter for Book 3, I realised it's been a year since I finished the Dark Tournament. And I thought it would be fun to write a bit of extra content.
There's always parts of the story that the author knows, but doesn't put in the final product. In this case, it was Sakura's training with Kurama. I realised I never really showed anything about how it was for the two of them in the period before the Dark Tournament, nor have we ever had an explanation of how he realised his deeper feelings for Sakura.
So I wrote this as a little surprise for you all ;)
This chapter is set roughly ten days after Toguro coerces Yusuke into the Dark Tournament, and is completely from Kurama's perspective. Hope you enjoy!
Bonus Chapter: Step by Step
7:15am.
The streets were all but deserted at such an hour. The early morning air was crisp and fresh, with many trees and flowers still glistening with dew.
Kurama was grateful for the solitude as he exited the train station and made his way down the street towards the arranged meeting spot. It wasn't far, but he kept up a good pace until he reached the second-to-last turn.
First things first.
He paused on the pretext of checking his watch again and took a moment to subtly scan the area for any unwelcome visitors.
He sensed nothing, but that didn't surprise him. It was unlikely Toguro would send any assassins or other such troublemakers. Spies, perhaps, but only to report on their progress.
Even so, it would be remiss of me to not be on guard.
Kurama rounded the corner and saw his destination ahead. The wild bamboo forest on the outskirts of Tokyo, once a place of solitude, now a makeshift training ground. In around one hundred metres he would be close enough to slip in, unnoticed.
Sakura…
Kurama felt his human body instinctively speed up the closer he got. He was going to see her again. Today. There was a curious burning sensation in his chest at the thought.
Once the coast was clear, he vanished into the trees and towards the glade a short distance away.
So close…
Kurama pushed past the bamboo, heart pounding slightly faster. At last, there was just one more tree in the way. He moved it aside and stepped into the clearing. It was empty.
She's not here yet.
With a twinge of disappointment, Kurama sat down under a nearby tree to wait, and hopefully settle whatever was causing his heart to race. Taking in his tranquil surroundings would surely be the perfect remedy.
Kurama sighed deeply, breathing in the scent of the forest.
Such serenity.
He always felt more at ease around nature. Perhaps because it was the closest thing in the human world he'd found to his old life as the infamous thief Yoko Kurama. Centuries of prowling the Demon World in search of treasures to steal.
The thought made him laugh a little. Who would've imagined that the legendary bandit would have ended up not only hiding amongst the humans, but embracing it…
A flash of magenta caught Kurama's attention. He froze momentarily, only to relax when he recognised the colour. It was a patch of sakurasou, the Japanese primrose often found in wetlands and forest areas.
A smile curved up Kurama's lips. He reached over to delicately pluck one flower and observe it closely in his hand.
Beautiful.
Often dismissed due to how common it was, sakurasou flowers had managed to find a place in Kurama's heart. Perhaps because of the similarity to sakura flowers? Because of how often he'd climbed his mother's cherry tree as a child?
No, he couldn't deny it. Not anymore. Sakura flowers had taken on a different meaning to him in recent months, and it was due to a certain midnight haired human girl.
He stroked the petals gently, and her face floated at the forefront of his subconscious.
Sakura…
Kurama turned her name over in his mind. The more he pondered it, he could feel that odd burning sensation in his chest again.
After fifteen years in his human form, he thought he'd gotten a firm grasp of all emotions in this body. But this…this was different.
What does it mean?
He couldn't explain the feeling, but it was some kind of excitement. And it was different to the excitement he got from fighting or seeing his human mother at the end of the day. This feeling was more like a longing. An inexplicable desire to see Sakura Urameshi. To talk with her. To learn about her.
Kurama wasn't sure if his eagerness made sense, but he couldn't deny reality. Ever since they met, Sakura crossed his mind multiple times a day and it was only becoming more frequent since that night at the warehouse. The night Hiei had used her and Keiko as bait…
Kurama shut his eyes. As far as he was concerned, Hiei had gone beyond the pale with that stunt, and especially so considering Yukina's situation. Just thinking about it made his blood pressure spike…
Perhaps that is why Hiei was so quick to offer his assistance with training Sakura for the tournament. It might be his way of making amends.
Hiei would deny it, but Kurama knew.
With a sigh, Kurama checked his watch again. 7:25am. Sakura was supposed to be meeting him at 7:30. And that was if she arrived exactly on time. She might be delayed for any number of reasons. Either way, it meant more waiting until she appeared. Irritation gnawed at Kurama.
Why am I so impatient?
For over a week, each member of Team Urameshi had begun to prepare in earnest for the Dark Tournament. Hiei temporarily vanished for his own purposes, and Kurama had been faithfully working with Kuwabara while the twins returned to Master Genkai to start their regime. But for all the remarkable progress Kuwabara had made these past few days, he wasn't who Kurama truly longed to see.
Sakura…
Kurama stared at the primrose in his hand for a moment longer before he pulled out a rose and stood up.
Sitting around like this wasn't helpful. Perhaps some solo training would sufficiently pass the time until she appeared.
"Rose Whip!"
Within seconds, Kurama's signature weapon had grown and he began to practise. Fifteen bamboo shoots were cut down with one swing. Not bad, but this forest hardly presented a real challenge, even for Shuichi Minamino.
There was only one remedy.
At Kurama's command, a veritable blizzard of delicate rose petals burst around him from a tiny seed. His sharp eyes locked onto the targets. Three small pink sakurasou, floating amidst the hurricane of red he'd unleashed.
Precision is the key.
Kurama brought the whip down, slicing the primroses clean in half while the red rose petals surrounding them remained untouched.
Perfect.
Task complete, Kurama smiled at his handiwork. A clean shot with no casualties.
Shuichi's body has adapted well.
For all the wonders of the human world, he wasn't as strong or fast in his human body compared to his demon counterpart. But with intensive training, the gap was closing.
Kurama laughed to himself and summoned another whirlwind of petals. This time, he would challenge himself further…
"Kurama,"
His heart jumped at the sound of her voice, and he turned around eagerly. Sakura stood at the edge of the glade, and Kurama's breath caught in his throat. She had arrived, but he was not prepared for the sight of her.
Instead of her usual school uniform, Sakura wore black leggings and a fitted forest green top that accentuated her slim, athletic figure. Her shiny black hair was pulled off her face in a French braid.
"Hi," she said softly.
Kurama swallowed. "Good morning, Sakura,"
She stepped closer, into the cloud of rose petals. Her gaze flitted upwards as they swirled around her.
"They're so beautiful," Sakura breathed. Her smile went from shy to delighted, and she reached out a hand to catch some.
Kurama momentarily forgot how to speak. In over 1500 years of existence, he could never have dreamed something so beautiful could stand before him.
"Sakurasou, right?" Sakura murmured with her eyes on the flowers. "I recognise the colour,"
Focus.
"Yes," Kurama almost had to force the words out. "Yes, they are,"
Perhaps Sakura sensed something was wrong, because her dazzling smile faded to an expression of concern.
"Oh…I'm sorry. Did I interrupt your training?" She looked stricken. "I didn't mean to. I'm so sorry,"
Sakura turned to go, and Kurama felt a pang of horror.
No.
"Sakura, wait!" he called. "You don't have to leave,"
She looked back at him and shook her head. "It's fine, really. I don't want to disturb you. I can come back another time,"
"You didn't," Kurama dropped to a gentle tone. "I arrived a little early and was merely working on some precision training while I waited,"
He could tell Sakura was still uncertain. "Are you…sure?"
"Yes," Kurama gave her a smile.
At last, she relaxed and smiled back. "Ok then,"
Kurama waved his hand. The petals returned to their seed while Sakura watched in awe.
He set his rose whip aside and took a step towards her. In the early morning sunlight, Sakura seemed to almost glow. He wished he could capture the image on film.
"I'm…glad to see you made it," Kurama began. "How did your training with Master Genkai go?"
She smiled ruefully and pushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "It's been…interesting,"
Kurama noticed a few Band-Aids decorating her arm and neck. He looked up at her with a raised brow.
"Oh, this is nothing," Sakura waved her hand dismissively. "You might say I just bit off more than I could chew, that's all,"
"I see,"
"Yeah…" Sakura flushed slightly. She put her bag out of the way before straightening up to explain. "Long story short, Yusuke and I were sparring and I thought I'd try combining my spirit agility with a double blast in mid-air,"
Kurama chuckled. "A clever tactic, but I take it that something went wrong?"
"Of course," Sakura grinned sheepishly at the memory. "I didn't think about how I was going to land. The air pressure from my attack threw me off course. Genkai keeps these spiked blocks in her training room, and that's exactly where I crashed," She giggled in spite of herself. "I guess if you're going to fail, you might as well do it spectacularly,"
Kurama grinned. He couldn't help himself. "I'm sure it was very impressive, though I am glad you didn't damage yourself more severely,"
"Well, it was definitely an experience, but let's just say I'll be thinking twice next time," Sakura laughed.
It was a beautiful sound. Kurama shut his eyes for a split second to take it in.
"Anyway," Sakura looked around eagerly. "Shall we get started?"
Kurama hesitated; they might be there to train, but he didn't want to start sparring with her immediately.
"Before we begin, perhaps you could tell me about what Master Genkai is working on with you? It will assist me in tailoring this training session,"
"Oh…" Sakura bit her lip. "Well, there's the usual concerns with my strength and stamina, but she's started teaching me a new move. I think it's going to be really versatile when I get the hang of it,"
Kurama was intrigued. "I see…and what might this new move be?"
Her shy smile twisted into a smirk reminiscent of Yusuke.
"Well, I could tell you," Sakura mused. "But honestly, I think showing you might be the better option,"
Was it her words? Her tone? That mischievous grin? Kurama wasn't sure, but he knew that her offer had caused a spike in his energy and his excitement.
"Of course, Sakura. I'd be happy to see what you're working on,"
Her eyes sparkled. "Ok. Let's go for it!"
Before Kurama could blink, Sakura had launched herself into the air and flipped over his head into a nearby tree.
It was mesmerising. Her movements were so fluid. She almost resembled flowing water.
"What are you waiting for?" Sakura called. "I need to practise. So come get me!"
Kurama stared. He genuinely hadn't expected her to do that. But the challenge awoke something in him.
"As you wish,"
The Rose Whip burst forth and Sakura grinned. She propelled herself out of the tree while charging her attack.
"Spirit Blast!"
Kurama saw it coming and dodged lazily. He swung the whip at Sakura, and she also evaded in time.
"Missed me," she teased.
Kurama smirked. "Did I?"
Sakura looked down in alarm. Vines were growing out of the ground and twisting around her ankles. She cried out and went to jump away, but it was too late. She was trapped.
"Rose Whip!"
The instant before Kurama's weapon made contact, Sakura raised her hand.
"Reflection Shield!"
A shimmering barrier exploded between them with such force that Sakura was knocked flat on her back. Kurama's eyes widened. His whip was capable of slicing through solid rock, but it seemed to fold in on itself upon impact.
Extraordinary.
A second later, Kurama realised Sakura hadn't gotten up yet. He suppressed a gasp and hurriedly ducked around the barrier to get to her.
"Sakura! Are you alright?!"
Despite his best efforts, Kurama wasn't able to completely keep the panic out of his voice when he saw Sakura lying on the ground. She looked more than a little dazed.
"Sorry," she mumbled. "I forgot about the kickback,"
Kurama dropped to his knees beside her. "Did you hurt yourself?"
"I…I don't think so. Just a bit dizzy is all,"
"Can you sit up?" Kurama made a move to help her, but she shook her head.
"That might be a bit difficult," she nodded down at her legs. "Do you think you could…?"
Kurama looked, and saw that the vines he'd summoned before had almost grown to Sakura's waist and were quite literally rooting her to the ground.
"Of course," With a wave of his hand, the vines receded.
"Thanks," Sakura pressed a hand over her eyes, and in that moment Kurama detected the scent of fear.
He leaned down. "Here, let me…"
His hands found their way behind her back and he lifted her upright. She was trembling slightly.
Kurama realised his vine tactic was a mistake. It may have been in the heat of the moment, but he should have considered what it might do to Sakura. The feeling of being ensnared so unexpectedly, it must have felt like she was back in the hands of those vile mercenaries…
"I'm sorry, Sakura," Kurama murmured. "I shouldn't have thrown those particular seeds. They grow rather fast, and I…didn't think about…"
Sakura lowered her hand, presumably so she could see him. Her face was pale, but when she spoke, her voice was quite steady.
"No, it was my fault. I haven't got enough control over that move yet," she sighed. "Maybe we should-"
She trailed off and her eyes went slightly wider. At first Kurama didn't understand, but then it came to him. This was the closest contact they'd had since taking down the four Saint Beasts.
The memory passed through Kurama's mind. He could see it clear as day. Sakura, lying severely injured in his arms while he carried her out of Maze Castle…
His grip on her waist instinctively tightened, and Sakura placed a hand on his pectoral muscle as if to steady herself. His heart jumped at the contact while he helped her up.
They stood, his arms still around her, and their eyes met.
Kurama could see an ocean of memories swirling around inside her orbs. Was it possible she was remembering Maze Castle too? How she'd collapsed into his chest after donating her own life energy to save Yusuke? How tightly she had clung to him while he stroked her hair and told her everything would be alright? The way she seemed to go limp with relief as soon as he'd lifted her into his arms?
Kurama still hadn't let go, nor had Sakura made a move to pull away. He longed to hold her close to him again. To tuck her into his body and breathe in her alluring scent…
Sakura's eyes moved down his face, and Kurama could've sworn they lingered on his lips for just a moment before she looked away with a faint blush creeping over her cheeks.
"Well…now you know about my Reflection Shield," she laughed weakly. "As you can see, it needs a lot of work,"
"Anything worth knowing usually requires practice," Kurama smiled, hiding his disappointment that he had to release her. "However, I am sure you will have mastered it by the time we get to the tournament,"
She turned back with a small smile. "You think so?"
"Of course," Kurama said gently. "In fact, I'd say you are more adept at it than you seem to realise,"
She frowned. "You sound very…confident in my abilities,"
"I am," he nodded at the remains of his rose whip. "While unrefined, there was certainly a considerable amount of energy in your barrier. It was enough to throw me off guard for a moment, and such a tactic will be invaluable should you face an opponent,"
Sakura looked pleased at the compliment, if a little surprised. "Thank you, Kurama. That…means a lot," she chuckled. "Although, Yusuke keeps saying he'll make sure I'm the most unnecessary alternate in the tournament's history,"
Kurama privately wanted the same thing, but cold logic told him otherwise. There was little chance that Sakura could emerge on the other side without fighting. Toguro would find a way to get her in the ring.
I must do all I can to prepare her for this ordeal.
"Perhaps we should leave your Reflection Shield aside for the moment, and focus on building your combat skills," Kurama offered.
"Sounds good, but…" Sakura paused. "There was something else I was wondering about,"
"And what might that be?"
Sakura pointed with her chin at his tangled whip. "My Spirit Blast is a good offensive move, but while we were rescuing Yukina, there were several times when I could've been more helpful if I'd been able to immobilise an opponent or two. Does that make sense?"
Kurama nodded. "It does,"
"So…I've been thinking, and please feel free to tell me if I'm being an idiot, is there a way for me to develop a move that will allow for that?"
An intriguing question, but one Kurama was prepared for. "Yes, I believe so," he smiled gently. "It would take work, but I'm sure you know that."
"I'll do whatever it takes!" Sakura said immediately. "No matter what, I'll do it!"
Her visible determination made Kurama's heart flutter, but he ignored it and held up a hand. "I know, Sakura. But we must take things one step at a time. Before we can attempt a new technique, it would be wise to gain more precise control over your energy output,"
"And how do you propose we do that?" There was a hint of mischief on her face, as if she already knew the answer.
Kurama returned her grin with one of his own. He realised he was feeling an emotion quite unlike his usual self. He was feeling…playful.
"Well, I could tell you," he quoted. "But I agree that showing is the better option. Rose Whip!"
It was early evening by the time Sakura flopped onto the grass. "You win," she panted with an arm draped across her forehead. "I admit defeat,"
Kurama laughed quietly. "Do I detect the sound of giving up?"
"Well…maybe for today," Sakura shot a pixie-like grin in his direction. "But when it comes to our next training session, you'll have to watch your back,"
"Challenge accepted,"
Sakura laughed, but she sounded tired. "Seriously though, thankyou for doing this, Kurama. I…" she swallowed. "I really enjoyed training with you,"
Kurama almost took a step back. Her words, her face…it was so sincere. So real.
"You're welcome, Sakura. I…rather enjoyed myself as well,"
She sat up. "What time is it?"
Kurama checked his watch. "A quarter past six,"
"I should probably start making tracks then," Sakura heaved herself upright and went to retrieve her bag from under the tree. He watched her pull out a teal-coloured hoodie and slip her arms through the sleeves before slinging her bag across her body. Even in the dim light, Kurama thought that the green colour complemented her dark hair and pale skin so beautifully.
"Well…I guess I'll see you next time?" Sakura gave him a small half-wave and went to go.
Kurama shook his head to clear it. He couldn't let her leave. Not a chance.
"Sakura," he called.
She stopped in her tracks. "Yes?"
"Are you meeting Yusuke or Keiko at the train station?"
"Um, no," Sakura blinked. "Yusuke's still at Genkai's. And Keiko wanted to come down, but her parents needed her help at their restaurant today,"
"I see," Kurama steeled himself. "If that's the case, will you allow me to accompany you back to the city? It's getting dark, and I'm sure Yusuke would prefer you to get home safely,"
Instead of the enthusiastic yes he was hoping for, Sakura looked doubtful.
"Are you…sure? I don't want to keep you from getting home on time,"
"Far from it. I wasn't sure how long you'd want to train for, so I told my mother not to expect me back for dinner,"
Silently, he prayed for her to agree. The thought of leaving things here sickened him.
Her hesitation fell away. Sakura smiled. "Then sure. I'm fine with that,"
Kurama managed to keep the relief from his face. They exited the forest and made their way to the station.
Once they were on the train, Sakura chose a seat near the window and took out a school notebook.
"Sorry, Kurama. I hope you don't mind, but I need to try and get some of my English homework done,"
"Not at all," Kurama smiled. "Whatever you need to do,"
Sakura got to work. The ride back to Tokyo took around an hour, but Kurama was content to simply sit and observe the view. Not just from the window of the train, but the sight of watching Sakura translate.
While training with him, Sakura's expression was somewhat elastic, morphing from fierce determination to borderline panic when backed into a corner. But as he watched her study, Kurama noticed that she looked almost serene, completely absorbed in the task at hand. She kept her eyes squarely on the page, only moving to write occasionally or sweep a lock of hair aside.
He'd never seen this side of Sakura before, and it fascinated him.
Since this whole saga began, Kurama's observation of Sakura had either been from a distance (prior to their formal introduction), or during Yusuke's investigations. But this? It was different. Today might have been about training, but now…this was a perfectly ordinary activity. The first they had done together. And he wouldn't mind doing more with her.
She's in a world of her own.
What would it be like if he explored that world a little deeper?
The sun had almost completely set by the time they exited the train and approached the main entrance. Kurama was quietly preparing himself for the inevitable moment where she would have to leave when he heard her voice.
"So…" Sakura glanced at the giant station clock, then down at her shoes. She took a deep breath before saying, "Kurama, I was planning on cooking tonight, but after today I don't think I have the energy. I know you probably have to get home, but if not, would you like to join me?"
Now it was Kurama's turn to pause. "Won't your mother be expecting you?"
Sakura laughed briefly, but it didn't sound sincere. "Not much chance of that," she almost snorted.
Kurama was slightly confused by her reaction, but he didn't want to pry. Instead he smiled.
"I'd like that. What did you have in mind?"
Sakura led Kurama about ten metres down the road towards a small restaurant. Inside it was almost empty aside from the kitchen staff and some older women in the corner but the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Kurama found himself admiring the off-white walls decorated with manga covers and the rich dark wood tables.
"This is nice," he murmured.
Sakura nodded. "Yes, I discovered it when Yusuke first trained with Genkai. I…needed a quiet place to come,"
"I see,"
Sakura indicated the vending machine. "They have a pretty good selection here. And from experience, the yakiniku is delicious,"
"Urameshi-san, you're back!" a middle-aged man called from the kitchen. "And I see you've brought a friend,"
Sakura smiled and bowed. "Yes, Aizawa-sensei. This is…Minamino-senpai. He's been helping me study,"
Kurama had never heard Sakura speak so formally, and perhaps she knew what he was thinking, because her next communication was through telepathy.
Sorry, Kurama. Aizawa-sensei is quite…traditional. Let me handle it.
Aizawa wiped his hands on a dish towel and came out to the front counter. Though likely approaching 50, he was much taller and more fit than he appeared at first glance.
"Too pale, Urameshi-san," He peered at Sakura's face. "Are you looking after yourself? Eating enough?"
Sakura flushed. "Not since yesterday, but that's why I'm here,"
Kurama blinked. She hasn't eaten all day? Not even before we met?
"You work too hard, Urameshi-san," Aizawa shook his head gravely and turned to Kurama. "Everytime she comes in, it's work-work-work. Never stops. You need to take care of her, alright?"
Kurama bowed his head. "You needn't worry, sir. She's in good hands with me,"
Sakura went an even deeper shade of pink. "Thankyou Aizawa-sensei, but I believe your wife is looking for you,"
Sure enough, a middle-aged woman was striding up behind her husband with a very stern look on her face.
"Yes, dear. I'm coming," Aizawa called over his shoulder. "Order whatever you want, Urameshi-san. It's quiet tonight, so it won't be long. And you…" he looked Kurama up and down. "You seem like a nice boy. I hope you know what a special one you've got here,"
He finally left, and a mortified Sakura put a hand over her mouth. I am…so sorry, Kurama. I shouldn't have brought you here.
Kurama smiled reassuringly. It's fine, really. He's just traditional, like you said.
Sakura sighed and looked at the vending machine menu. "Hmmm, chicken soba sounds good. I just hope I have enough…"
She reached into her bag and withdrew a small coin purse. Kurama's sharp eyes realised her fingers were trembling while she unzipped it and rummaged through the change inside.
"Allow me," Kurama said quietly. He already had cash in hand.
Sakura looked even more embarrassed. "No, it's fine. I've got it,"
"I insist," Kurama gently turned her towards the tables. "I'm the one who kept you busy all day. You go sit down,"
Sakura looked like she wanted to protest, but clamped her mouth and went off to find a table for them. She slid into a booth in the far corner of the restaurant next to the window.
Kurama pressed the buttons, ordering the chicken soba Sakura wanted and a bowl of udon for himself. He heard the bell chime as more customers entered behind him, but didn't think much of it while taking the tickets over to the counter.
"Hey there. What's a pretty thing like you doing out at this hour?"
Kurama's head whipped around like lightning. A trio of street thugs had approached the booth where Sakura was sitting. Two had already parked themselves on the opposite seat, and the third one, the ringleader, had made himself right at home beside her. He was sitting so close that Sakura was backed up against the window.
"Just getting some dinner," Sakura stammered. "That's still legal, right?"
"Good point, but it's not right for a lady to dine alone. Why don't you come sit with us?"
Kurama growled. He almost slammed the tickets onto the front counter and swam over.
Sakura shook her head. "No thanks, I'm here with someone,"
"Is that so?" the brown-haired ringleader smirked. "Well, I'm sure we'd be a lot more fun than this invisible friend,"
"I'd rather watch paint dry," Sakura snapped. "Just leave me alone,"
The boys laughed.
"She looks so scared," the boy with pierced ears nudged his friend. "What do you say?"
"I don't mind that," the friend snickered. "It makes things more interesting,"
Kurama finally reached the table. Sakura was trying to conceal it, but he could sense her rising panic from across the restaurant.
"Get away from her," Kurama hissed in fury.
The boys looked around. "Huh?"
"Who's this princess?"
Kurama narrowed his eyes. "You heard me. Get away from her. Now,"
"Chill out, man," the ringleader rolled his eyes. "We're just talking,"
Kurama growled again. He could tell these three had a lot more than talking on their minds.
"Oooh, tough guy," the boy with pierced ears snorted. "Move along, princess. You don't want to make us mad,"
Kurama didn't back down. In his rage, he wanted to break all three of their spines.
"It's ok, Shuichi," Sakura said quickly.
Kurama shook his head firmly. He wasn't going to let these pricks get away with intimidating her. Yoko wouldn't either.
"Last warning," his voice was dangerously calm. "Move away,"
The boys laughed harder. "Nah, we don't really feel like it," the boy with pierced ears helped himself to Sakura's glass of water. "We're comfortable here, so you can rack off,"
Sakura went to stand up, but the ringleader seized her wrist and forced her to sit back down. She went stiff with fear.
"Don't touch her!" Kurama growled.
The pierced boy stood up at his full height, which was a few inches over Kurama. "What was that?"
"Guys, I really don't want any trouble," Sakura mumbled. "Please, just go away,"
"Looks like your boyfriend is the one causing trouble, sweetheart," The ringleader cracked his knuckles and got up beside his friend. "Want to take this outside, redhead?"
Kurama clenched his fists. He was more than ready to go outside and teach these assholes a lesson they'd never forget…
A full glass of water was tossed in the ringleader's face.
"All three of you can leave," Aizawa glared at them. "And don't bother coming back,"
The boy coughed and spluttered, dripping wet. "What the hell?!"
"I don't tolerate such shameful behaviour," Aizawa snapped. "Get out,"
"That's how you want to play it, old man?" the ringleader snarled. His fist rose. Aizawa rolled his eyes, sidestepped the punch and seized the back of the boy's jacket before swiftly tossing him outside.
The other two gang members stared in disbelief. "What…just happened?"
"Use your eyes," Aizawa nodded behind the counter where a series of framed jiu-jitsu medals were hanging.
The remaining gang members went pale. "Uh…"
Aizawa looked at the thugs with contempt. "There's the door. Use it,"
They scurried out, and Sakura almost crumbled with relief.
"Are you alright?" Kurama immediately asked.
Sakura nodded slowly, then forced a smile. "Thankyou Sensei. Sorry about that,"
"Don't be," Aizawa dusted his hands off. "Those street thugs…no respect," he shook his head and headed back for the kitchen. "Won't be long, Urameshi-san,"
Kurama glanced out the door to make sure the gang was gone, then took his own seat.
"Sakura…"
"I'm fine," she insisted, but Kurama wasn't fooled. Her eyes were wet, and he saw the anguish she battled to seal up inside.
The sight was painful to him. Being surrounded by those lustful eyes, the leers, it had been too much for her. Kurama knew what she must be remembering, but he knew better than to broach the subject.
Never again.
"Sorry about that," Sakura breathed. "I shouldn't have…I just…froze,"
"No," Kurama said firmly. "You didn't do anything wrong,"
"Where have you been?" Sakura gave a watery laugh. "Apparently having two X chromosomes means you walk around for life with a sign saying free," She wiped her eyes. "Sorry, just give me a minute,"
Without thinking, Kurama reached across the table and squeezed her hand. "Don't ever apologise for how you feel," he said softly. "Nobody worth your time will judge you for such a thing,"
Sakura squeezed back. "Thanks,"
She was starting to calm down, but Kurama didn't want to let go. He just kept holding on, and Sakura didn't pull away.
Why can't I make sense of this?
Sakura was a friend, and Kurama cared for his friends very deeply. But it was more than that with Sakura, somehow. Being in her presence…soothed his fused soul, in ways he'd never known.
What was it about Sakura that drew him in? Truthfully, it was many things. Her kindness, for one. Her courage, for another. Her sense of humour and patience (though understandably shorter when it came to dealing with Yusuke), the utter determination she exhibited on and off the battlefield, her unwavering loyalty to those she cared about…the list was endless.
He also couldn't deny how beautiful she was. Long silky black hair hanging almost at her waist, her dainty frame, pale lips and those captivating brown eyes…she was truly unlike anyone he had ever met.
They'd only known each other a few months, but now it was hard to imagine any time when Sakura hadn't been part of his life.
"Here you are,"
Aizawa set two bowls on the table in front of them, and Kurama was forced to let go at last.
"Thankyou Aizawa-Sensei. This looks incredible,,"
"Not at all, Urameshi-san. You enjoy," With a warm smile, he left them there.
Sakura watched him go. "He used to run a dojo," she muttered after him. "His wife told me once. Fifteen years of teaching students before they opened this place,"
"I see,"
"It's partly why I like coming here. He doesn't tolerate idiocy," Sakura immediately picked up her chopsticks and dug in.
It took Kurama several seconds to tear his eyes away from her and start on his udon. "I didn't realise you hadn't eaten today. I'm sorry for not noticing earlier,"
Sakura swallowed. "I forgot too, until now," she admitted. "I…uh, wasn't able to before leaving my apartment. But it's ok,"
Kurama got the sense that she wasn't being entirely forthcoming, but he didn't want to embarrass her further and so didn't probe.
But he wanted to. He wanted to know everything about her, to uncover what she was starting to show him. Here, without any present danger or a desire to keep up a brave façade, Kurama was seeing flashes of the truth. Underneath her mask, Sakura had a gentle soul, but one that was scarred. He could detect the damage buried deep inside.
What happened to you, Sakura? What kind of life have you known?
Perhaps one day, she'd want to tell him.
When she'd finished eating, Sakura sipped her water for a while and didn't speak. She seemed to be wrestling with herself.
"Is something on your mind, Sakura?" Kurama set his plate aside.
She lowered her eyes before abruptly looking up again. "Yes, actually. There's something I've been meaning to ask you, but I don't want to…you know, overstep the mark,"
Kurama's brows rose. "That seems unlikely. You can ask me anything you like,"
"Well, if you say so," Sakura paused. "Not sure if you know, but when you met Yusuke at the hospital, I was in Spirit World having my first telepathy lesson with Master Shin,"
"I see," That explained a lot. Kurama had just assumed Yusuke made Sakura stay home in case of a threat.
"That was the first time I was able to stretch my mind and connect with Yusuke from a distance," she continued with a faraway look in her eyes. "I managed to see some of the conversation you had on the rooftop. And you said something I didn't expect,"
"What might that be?"
"You said you could tell that Yusuke would trust you, or at least I would," Sakura smiled. "I'm just curious as to why. How did you know?"
It was Kurama's turn to pause. That was the last thing he'd expected her to ask. He thought her question would be about his former life in the Demon World or how he'd ended up as Shuichi Minamino. But she wanted to know how he'd come to the decision, and more amazingly, he wanted to tell her.
"I suppose I was intrigued from the beginning," Kurama began. "From the moment Yusuke appeared in the forest, his aura felt different,"
Sakura tilted her head and asked, "How so?"
"The bravado," Kurama couldn't help but laugh a little at the memory. "I could never have imagined seeing a human boy approach three demons with that kind of…confidence,"
"Don't water it down," she snorted. "Yusuke's a cocky moron. I know better than anyone,"
Kurama chuckled. "Fair enough. In any case, I obviously wasn't expecting anyone to show up. And I decided to retreat and see how things played out. From a distance,"
Sakura's eyes widened. "You…you saw?"
"That's right. I sensed your presence as well, behind that tree," he went on. "I admit I was curious as to what would happen. Had Botan not arrived when she did that night…"
Kurama shook his head. "I saw the way Yusuke fought. Once you intervened, I knew my hunch was right. There was something different about the pair of you,"
Sakura nodded thoughtfully. She seemed to be drinking in every word.
"The next day, I watched and waited for the right moment to approach you all…and you know the rest," Kurama took a sip from his own drink.
"No, I don't," Sakura said. "That night at the warehouse, with Hiei…" she shuddered slightly before continuing. "How did you find us there? I never got to ask,"
Kurama's heart clenched. The conversation had entered dangerous territory. "Is that…incident really something you feel comfortable discussing?"
Sakura hesitated, then nodded firmly. "Master Shin is helping me…process that night. And I think the more I know, the easier it will be in the long run,"
Kurama observed Sakura for a moment. "I'll tell you," he said softly. "But Sakura, if it becomes too much for you to hear, please tell me at once. I'll stop whenever you need me to,"
Her eyes went hard. "Ok, I will,"
"Very well," Kurama wasn't sure how to begin. "Do you remember the day we spoke by the lake?"
"Yes, of course,"
"Initially, I said I called you there to give you a word of caution, and I did. But there was another reason. Knowing how badly Hiei wanted the artefacts of darkness, I was concerned about what he might do. As it turned out, I was correct,"
"What do you mean?"
"As soon as you left, I realised Hiei had been watching our conversation. He was suppressing his energy, but in his excitement, I sensed him,"
Sakura gasped.
"Immediately I feared the worst and decided to confront him," Kurama said quietly. "I knew Hiei was willing to do almost anything to get what he wanted, so I told him in no uncertain terms that you must be left out of the matter,"
"I…never would've guessed,"
"Truthfully, I never intended you to know," Kurama admitted. "I thought that would be the end of it, but obviously that wasn't the case,"
"So…what then?"
"I'm not one to leave things to chance," Kurama closed his eyes. "While we spoke, I took the liberty of attaching a plant seed to your hair. A rare one from the Demon World known as a shingō pod, which works as a primitive tracking device,"
Sakura's jaw dropped and she instinctively ran a hand down her long braid. "You did?! I had no idea!"
"That was precisely the point," Kurama shrugged. "My apologies, but I wouldn't have done it if I hadn't deemed it absolutely necessary,"
She looked at him, incredulous. "Do you hear me complaining? That's honestly kind of incredible. I doubt I could think that far ahead,"
"If it's any consolation, I attached one to Hiei as well," Kurama continued. "I imagined he would attempt to ambush Yusuke when least expected. My thinking was that you would fight alongside Yusuke if and when Hiei struck, and I would then be able to assist. But of course…I soon realised that he'd…"
Her hand went up. "Please…don't say it," she said quietly.
Kurama nodded. There was no need. They both knew.
"I raced to the signal location as quickly as possible. Even outside the warehouse, the scent was unmistakable. Hiei must've been desperate to take that form. I feared I might be too late…"
Of course, Kurama knew he almost had been too late to save Yusuke. Had he arrived a fraction of a second later…well, at least he still would've been able to get the girls to safety.
"That's enough," Sakura whispered. She'd gone deathly pale and was starting to shake. "I…I can't hear anymore,"
Kurama reached for her hand again. "Of course,"
In truth, he wanted to wrap his arms around her, but since she hadn't granted permission, this minimal contact would have to suffice for now.
"I'm sorry," A single tear ran down her face. "I thought I would be over it by now. And maybe in some ways I am…I mean, worse stuff has happened since, but still," Sakura used her free hand to wipe her eyes with a serviette. "It was horrible, Kurama. I was so scared that night. I really thought he was going to…"
She looked so vulnerable, and his heart ached. Sakura had never deserved the torment Hiei put her through that night. And as it turned out, it was only the beginning. Maze Castle, those evil tokage mercenaries, and now the looming threat of the Dark Tournament.
I have to keep her safe.
But more importantly, right now he needed to help her through this moment.
"It's alright, Sakura. Really. You don't need to be ashamed," Kurama said in his softest voice. "What happened to you was unacceptable, and nobody has the right to tell you when to heal. Just take each moment as it comes. Step by step, like training,"
Sakura took a deep, shuddering breath and nodded. "That's pretty much what Master Shin says, but I think I understand now,"
At last, there was a smile. One that reached her eyes. "Thankyou for telling me all that," she said sincerely. "I think it will help me find some closure someday,"
Kurama squeezed her hand gently. "You're welcome. But I do believe it's time you got some rest,"
Sakura checked the clock and stood up. "Good point. It's getting late,"
"Will you…allow me to walk you home?"
The words came unbidden, but Kurama didn't regret them. He couldn't hold it back. There was no way he could let her walk home by herself. Not after all that had transpired.
Sakura's smile widened. "I'd like that,"
They left the restaurant and began the short walk back to her apartment.
"Uh…this might be a stupid question," Sakura asked once they gone about two blocks. "But that seed you mentioned isn't still living in my hair, is it?"
Kurama smiled. "Of course not. I used my demon energy to remove it once Hiei was incapacitated,"
"Good," Sakura looked relieved, but her eyes danced. "If not, I'd have to start charging it rent,"
The comment made both of them laugh, and the worry Kurama felt eased slightly. But not entirely.
Her apartment building loomed ahead. In a few minutes, he'd have to leave her behind and return to his own home. The concept repulsed him. He wanted to stay with Sakura, watch over her and make sure she was safe. To keep her close, to ensure nothing and nobody ever so much as dreamed of defiling her…
You have to stop thinking this way. She's a person, not an object.
Kurama fought with his feelings the entire way up the stairs. Once they arrived at her apartment door, Sakura turned to him.
"Thank you again for today," she said softly. "I…really enjoyed myself,"
"As did I," Kurama stared at her puffy red eyes before asking, "Will you be alright? I don't want to leave you alone like this,"
Sakura smiled, not showing teeth. "That's sweet, but you don't need to worry about me," she said. "I'll be fine,"
So saying, Sakura turned the key in the lock. But just before stepping inside, she paused and looked back at Kurama.
Their eyes met again.
Kurama felt a rush of emotion that he couldn't name. He didn't want her to shut that door. He wanted her to come closer to him, let him hold her and taste her lips…
For a second, Sakura looked like she wanted to say something else to him, but a moment later the look was gone.
"Goodnight, Kurama,"
He exhaled. "Goodnight, Sakura. Be safe,"
With a final smile, she nodded and stepped inside. "Mother, I'm home!"
An instant before the door closed, Kurama caught the indisputable scent of what lay inside.
Alcohol?
The stench was so strong it made him take a step back.
What's going on?
Kurama couldn't resist. He let his aura spread throughout the Urameshi apartment. Sakura had said Yusuke wasn't home, but perhaps the twins' parents were?
He was wrong. A thorough scan of the area revealed that the only living soul inside the house was Sakura herself.
She's all alone?
The revelation almost knocked him over. He was outraged.
Kurama took a single step toward the door. He wanted to knock on it and find out exactly what the story was…
Stop. If Sakura wanted you to know, she would've told you.
He had to leave now.
With great effort, Kurama turned around and did just that. He stumbled down the stairs in something of a daze, but he left. Any more, and he would do something he would likely regret when the moment passed.
Sakura.
Her face was all he could see on the train ride back home. Though the evidence was sketchy, Kurama understood the situation to a degree. Sakura's evasiveness, her cryptic remarks and the fact she hadn't eaten all day now made more sense. So did Yusuke's obvious lack of discipline.
They don't have anyone to rely on. Just each other.
His chest ached. No wonder Yusuke was so protective. Sakura was likely all he had, and vice versa.
Kurama barely registered the short walk back to his house. He didn't even notice that the lights were still on when he walked up the front path, or hear the laughter coming from the kitchen.
Why?
Why was he feeling this way? Why did he want to run back to Sakura and pull her into his body? Why did he ache with the desire to save her from whatever she was battling inside, and at home? Why did he have such an intense burning inside him when he thought of her?
What am I supposed to do with this feeling?
"Shuichi? Is that you, dear?"
Shiori's head poked around the door and she beamed at the sight of her son.
"Yes Mother. It's me,"
Her brow creased. "Is everything alright? You look like you don't feel very well,"
It was more than that, but Kurama's heart was far too full for explanations. Not even his mother would understand the storm inside him.
"It's nothing, Mother," he smiled. "Just tired,"
She looked skeptical, but didn't question him. "That's alright, dear. You go on and get to bed,"
"I will, Mother. Goodnight,"
As Kurama reached the top of the stairs, he turned around and caught sight of Shiori's fiancé Kazuya coming up behind her.
"Shiori…"
So much affection saturated his voice. It made Kurama pause.
He watched them gaze at each other before Kazuya drew Shiori into his arms for a searing kiss.
"I love you," she whispered when they sprang apart.
"And I love you," Kazuya slipped his arms around Shiori's waist. She tucked her head into his chest with a happy sigh.
He kept watching, and an image of Sakura doing the same to him pierced his mind.
Sakura…
The realisation crashed over Kurama in a wave of glorious emotions. The burning in his chest wasn't wrong or possessive. It wasn't about trying to own or even protect her. It was about how he wanted to nourish her and be her rock. He wanted to take care of Sakura and show her all she deserved.
I love her.
Kurama felt his legs move of their own accord, down the hall and into his bedroom where he collapsed on the bed.
At last, he understood.
Sakura was more than a friend. He'd known as much since she called out to him at Maze Castle.
At first, he believed it to be an extreme sense of protection for one so pure and vulnerable. But it was more than that. Much more.
Sakura was…the only one he wanted. She was the most beautiful flower he could imagine, one that needed nurturing and loving care to grow to her full potential.
He wanted to be the one who caused that growth. He wanted to nurture what lay beneath the surface. Because he loved her.
Kurama smiled. All this time, he'd been lost and worried, wondering how to process whatever it was he felt. Scared of being wrong, overthinking everything and never considering what was actually going on. But it was alright now. Everything would be fine. He knew, and his heart swelled with an inexpressible joy.
Does Sakura know how I feel? Does she feel the same?
Deep down, Kurama already knew the answer was yes. From the way she had looked at him tonight, and the way she clung to his hand in the restaurant. There was no way he was wrong about this.
I'll wait for you, Sakura. You don't have to worry. I know.
Somehow, Kurama managed to undress and climb into bed. His heart was settled, and he felt at peace.
I love you, my precious flower.
He drifted off, dreaming of Sakura.
A.N. I hope you all enjoyed this little glimpse into Kurama's thought process. It was a blast to finally write this. I was DESPERATE to have this conversation between these two and reveal exactly why and how Kurama decided to approach Yusuke/turn against Hiei etc but I just couldn't find a way to put it in the main story. So this is the next best thing.
Would love to hear your thoughts on this bonus chapter!
I'd also like to reassure everyone that I am still working diligently on Book 3. Chapter 26 is about 80% finished and will be released within days.
See you soon!
Rosentic xx
