Notes:

Makai- Demon World

Ningenkai- Human World

Reikai- Spirit World

Reiki- Spirit Energy

Yoki- Demon Energy

Spirit Classes: Characters' strengths are classified by a class: E, D, C B, A , and S. E is the lowest and S is the highest.

E: Demons of this strength aren't strong or smart but they are incredibly violent. However, their strength is just above that of the average human. Most humans and Spirit World residents fall under this category.

D: Like E-class demons, they usually aren't very intelligent (with few exceptions) or exceptionally powerful; but their strength and endurance is super-human compared to an average human. However, compared to most demons they are very weak.

C: This is about average strength for most demons. They are stronger than E and D classes, but their power pales in comparison to the stronger classes. These demons are very common and are relatively abundant in both the Human and Demon worlds.

B: Beginning of the upper class demon strength, where the difference between C & B classes is absolutely enormous. B classes are far more powerful than C classes, but they still can't compete with the higher classes. This is in most cases the strongest class of demon that can be found in human world.

A: A-class strength levels are almost exclusive to demon world. Very few Humans reach this rank. While exceptionally powerful and rare in the Human world, they are relatively common in the demon world. However, compared to the power of an S-Class demon they are very weak.

S: classes are the highest class (the pinnacle of power). They are so strong that even a "low" S class' strength can completely devastate a large area. In the Demon World, they are rare; with only about 20 ever known.

They were caught in a deadlock. Squinted brown eyes stared into Black, neither blinking, neither willing to back down from the silent match that had started. There was a thick tension in the air, it was almost suffocating. The owner of the Brown eyes was visibly uneasy, while the other was relaxed.

Koenma's brow twitched as his eyes began to water. Finally he couldn't take it anymore. His eyes began to rapidly blink in surrender. It never really was a good idea to try and stare Sasuke down. The boy had an immense amount of self-discipline. His gaze focused once more at the Uchiha standing casually before him, weight on one leg with his hands shoved in his pockets. To look at Sasuke, one would think they were having a normal conversation.

"I don't think you understand the magnitude of what you're asking Sasuke…"

"It's not that large of a request," Sasuke replied flippantly.

Koenma's brows drew into a frown. He propped his elbow upon his desk and rested his cheek against his palm. His other hand took to drumming his fingers against the surface.

"If it was a for normal person, than no, it's not a large request. But you're asking for a demon, and not just any demon. A Hyuuga. If she's harmed it could lead to some massive problems…"

Problems he didn't want to deal with again. He had already dealt with another clan of demons who were a threat to the balance between the three worlds. It still weighed heavily on his shoulders and was not something he was looking to repeat.

"Shouldn't it be up to her? When I first took this job, you promised to help me achieve my goal. If you're turning against me I have no further use for you."

The unspoken threat hung in the air. Koenma had had plenty of rogue Spirit Detectives in the past to take it lightly. Sasuke was already powerful and gifted, a true prodigy, and would only continue to grow in strength. He could and most likely would be dangerous should he decide to turn against the Spirit World. Koenma released a noisy sigh. He slumped back into his chair and sunk deeply into it at defeat.

"Fine…We will talk to the Hyuuga and try to convince them to allow Hinata to join your team in the Dark Tournament. No promises though. If she chooses not to fight, there is nothing that can be done."

Sasuke gave a curt nod in understanding.

"Then let's go."

Koenma jerked startled, caught off guard by the request. "What? Right now!?"

"We only have a month to train. We're going to need every single day to do so, so yes. Right now," Sasuke gritted out impatiently.

"W-wait a minute! Let me at least put on my face before we go meet with one of the most powerful group of demons in Makai!" Koenma exclaimed. He jumped down from his seat, pulling his hat down over his face in the process. His hands moved around where his face would be in a molding motion. After a few seconds there was a poof of smoke. As it cleared, Koenma's infant form was replaced by his adult form that would've been impressive…if the pacifier wasn't still in his mouth. "Now I'm ready."

Sasuke rolled his eyes at the unnecessary dramatics as he followed Koenma out of his office.

This wasn't the first time he had been to Makai. His missions brought him to the realm quite a few times. The areas he had been to though, had been a bit primitive in comparison to what he was used to in Nigenkai and Reikai. So he had just assumed that's how the rest of Makai was like.

He couldn't have been more wrong.

Where the Hyuuga lived, was a city. Much bigger than his home Konoha, and much more advanced technology wise than both Reikai and Ningenkai. If he wasn't aware of where he was, he would've mistaken Gandara for one of the larger cities in Ningenkai like Tokyo, London, or New York. He did well to keep the curiosity out his eyes as he gazed up at the large skyscraper like buildings, odd architecture, and various types of demons walking around casually. Some held a humanoid form, some with features of a demon race, and others…he wasn't sure what to classify them as. They didn't look human, or anything identifiable in the slightest. Unconsciously he activated his sharingan, perhaps as a means of intimidation in a world where he was considered weak. He could feel their eyes on him and Koenma, who had taken to covering his forehead with a bandana to avoid recognition. They could smell his human blood. Not all of those eyes were simply curious, some were hungry...

They almost walked completely through the city before they came upon large intricate gates connected with large wooden walls blocking any prying eyes that may be curious to the other side. Beside the gate stood a lone humanoid demon with long black hair and white eyes. He was dressed in a black yukata. A white bandana across his forehead similar in the style Koenma wore his. The demon's face remained neutral as they approached, although Sasuke could tell he was taking in and noting every detail about them. Koenma stopped before the demon, Sasuke only a few steps behind him, before the Hyuuga decided to address them.

"What is it that you want?" His voice was monotone. Hints of boredom lined his words. He was not impressed with them.

"I wish to speak with Hiashi of the Hyuuga," Koenma responded.

The Hyuuga gave them a lazy smirk. "And what makes you think he'll want to speak to you?"

"Because when the Ruler of Reikai is at your door, you can be sure that he has something of interest to say," with that Koenma removed the headband around his forehead revealing the JR sign underneath.

Almost instantly the demon's demeanor changed, although not completely submissive there was an obvious respect now that wasn't there before.

"Lord Koenma…I apologize. I will have them inform Lord Hiashi that you are here and have someone take you to him." He paused for a moment. His hand rose to his ear, and he began to mumble into a small headset resting there that had been hidden by a curtain of hair. After receiving what appeared to be confirmation, the Hyuuga turned his attention back to Koenma and Sasuke. "You can go in. The Lord's nephew, Neji, will lead you to the meeting room where Hiashi will be."

With that the large gates began to open slowly, just enough to allow the two to slip in before shutting firmly behind them. Beyond the gates was virtually a small village. Several homes littered the area, all in a traditional Japanese housing style. It appeared that while the Hyuuga were demons, they were very traditional. It made him wonder if they were the inspiration behind such housing in Japan now, back before demons and humans were separated.

Sasuke caught movement out the corner of his eye and directed his focus to it. Another Hyuuga was approaching them. It was probably safe to say that this was the Hyuuga Lord's nephew, Neji. Sasuke's body began to naturally react defensively to the power radiating from the other boy. It was in every stride, the way he held his head high indicated a bit of arrogance. There was also hardness in his eyes that gave off no emotion but a silent demand for respect. He had a similar look to the other Hyuuga with long black hair, a dark yukata, and a white bandana resting across his forehead. The way he carried himself though, was much different. While the other Hyuuga seemed to carry resignation to him, there was an air of defiance and anger around Neji. Although he appeared to have it reined to the naked eye, Sasuke caught it. You often catch things when you share similar feelings…

Neji slowed then stopped before them. His eyes briefly looked over Sasuke. Although Sasuke had taken to suppressing his reiki he was almost positive that Neji could detect something, or perhaps he was just perceptive enough to realize what Sasuke was doing. He brought his gaze back to meet Koenma's eyes, and delivered a shallow bow to the Reikai ruler, just enough to be respectful.

"Lord Koenma. It is an honor to have you here. Please follow me."

"Thank you, Neji." Koenma gestured to Sasuke and trailed after Neji through the various buildings.

As they walked, Sasuke took to taking in his surroundings once more. They passed several other Hyuuga, who again shared similar traits with their dark hair and light eyes. Many of them almost looked liked ghost, and something else made his reiki pulse beneath his skin. All had the Byakugan. He wondered if they were all trained in the Gentle Fist style. Not one of the faces among the group was Hinata. There was something different to Hinata's face. It lacked the sharp lines and icy features that her clansmen held. What would be it be like to live in a house with no walls? Unable to hide from the Byakugan should one choose to use it?

He hated this place.

Finally they stopped at a building. It wasn't the largest in the compound but it was definitely the most highly decorated one. There was a garden next to the building, holding many exotic plants, a pond, and a high quality stone bench. Neji slide the door open and stepped to the side to allow Koenma and Sasuke to enter.

"Lord Koenma to see you, Lord Hiashi"

Upon entering the room, he found there to be only one Hyuuga knelt on a pillow before a low table. Hiashi didn't come off as an intimidating man. Sasuke found he was somewhat pressed to believe that this male held control on a highly powerful, B class and above, group of demons. Hiashi nodded to Koenma in greeting and gestured to the two seats before him. Sasuke and Koenma knelt down on their seats. Neji did not enter the room with them, he closed the door after them but Sasuke could still feel his presence lingering outside.

"Koenma. To what do I owe the pleasure of the Reikai Ruler's presence?"

"You flatter me Hiashi. It is I who should be grateful for you allowing an audience with us."

"I would not take your visit lightly. I assume this is the human boy who assisted in the retrieval of my daughter…"

"Correct. This is Sasuke Uchiha."

"Hm," Hiashi and Sasuke met eyes. Once more Sasuke got the distinct feeling he was being analyzed. All information picked up about him being store away in a mental file. He didn't back down from the Hyuuga's stare, meeting him head-on with one of his own. After a few moments, Hiashi acknowledge him with a nod. "You have my gratitude. My daughter spoke highly of you."

Sasuke bowed as much as his will would allow in a polite gesture.

"I was simply doing my job."

"Hiashi, we've come here with a purpose…As I'm sure you are aware The Dark Tournament will be commencing in one month's time. Sasuke has been chosen as a participant. Due to this he is seeking to put a team together. Two others have already been chosen, Naruto Uzumaki and Sakura Haruno. However, he has is looking to recruit one more…"

Hiashi raised his hand to silence Koenma. He turned his full attention on Sasuke, who had remained completely still while Koenma had went into the details leading up to their visit. Sasuke had a more direct way of approaching things. He wouldn't have bothered giving the Hyuuga anything other than his request. Hiashi held a similar mindset. He wanted to get straight to the point.

"What is it that you want from us, boy?"

"I want Hinata to fight for my team."

It appeared that Hiashi wasn't expecting that. His head tilted slightly indicating his revived interest. "Hinata? Why her. Are you aware she is one of the weakest among our clan?"

For some reason his tone and the way Hiashi spoke of his daughter rubbed Sasuke the wrong way. It was almost as though she was a burden. Perhaps that was the reason behind her reserved nature in her abilities. His clenched fist that has been resting on his thighs tightened a bit.

"From what I have observed, Hinata is a capable fighter. I believe she would be a valuable asset to my team."

"Should something happen to her, are you prepared to take on the responsibility that that will incur? While she may be a weak link as a fighter, her blood is still very pure making her valuable to the clan for breeding. "

It was then and there that Sasuke decided he absolutely hated Hiashi of the Hyuuga.

"I think Hinata should make the decision if she wants to fight. If she believes she is capable, then yes, I intend of taking full responsibility for anything that will happen."

"Hmph. Then we will allow her to make the choice. Neji."

Neji slide open the door once more, he was knelt down with his fist pressed against the wood floor.

"Yes, Hiashi-Sama?"

"Bring Hinata here."

Neji gave a quick nod and seemingly vanished with speed a lower class wouldn't have been able to catch. They didn't wait long before he reappeared, this time with the subject of the conversation by his side. Hinata bowed to her father upon entering the room, and rested on her knees before him. Briefly she glanced over their two guests and though her face remained blank, her eyes brightened for just a moment as the sight of Sasuke. Rather than inquire why she was brought into the meeting, Hinata remained silent waiting to be addressed.

She hadn't changed, though that shouldn't be too surprising, it had only been a week since the mission's end. The only thing that was different was her clothing, it wasn't important at the time but before she had been wearing a simple white yukata. Now she had donned blue capri like bottoms with a long sleeved lavender and grey jacket. Briefly he noted it did nothing to flatter her form, he wondered how efficient it was when it came to mobility in combat.

"Hinata. The Ruler of Reikai and this Spirit detective have come to me requesting that you join their team for an upcoming Tournament. I believe you are familiar with the Dark Tournament?"

Hinata gave a jerky nod. The confusion was clearly written across her face "Yes. I am…"

"Do you wish to participate?"

Shock appeared to ripple through Hinata's body. Her body went rigid, as she took to chewing her bottom lip in a subtle nervous habit. Sasuke couldn't help but feel annoyed by how she seemed to wither under her father's eyes. Hinata gazed at them out the corner of her eyes once more. She paused in biting her lip as she met Sasuke's gaze. He gave her a hard look, as though daring her to refuse. After a few moments that seemed to drag, Hinata made her decision.

"I...I will fight," she said quietly, not tearing her eyes from Sasuke's until he broke their stare to look at her father.

Hiashi's brows creased as his eyes flickered back and forth between his daughter and the Spirit Detective. It seemed as though Hinata gained some kind of inner strength from this boy. Whatever had transpired during the time she was kidnapped, it had caused her to admire him greatly. Hiashi's eyes settled back on Sasuke, meeting the Uchiha's dark gaze. The boy was much stronger than he let on. He could feel the suppressed power, and it made him wonder if this was the Spirit Detective's power suppressed…how strong was it at full strength? Perhaps his daughter would benefit from training with such power, even if it was from a human.

"Very well," Hiashi stood and proceeded to walk to the room's exit. He paused at the door, hand resting on the frame. "Do not disappoint me, Hinata. Good day, Koenma, Spirit Detective."

With Hiashi's leave, the tensions in the room seemed to lift. Hinata's shoulders visibly sagged in relief and a soft sigh escaped her lips. Koenma whipped his head towards Sasuke with a glare.

"You could have been a little more respectful Sasuke!"

Sasuke gave a nonchalant shrug. Formalities meant very little to him, he wasn't going to change how he was for anyone. He pushed himself off the ground to his feet, and padded over to Hinata who looked up at him curiously.

"We're going to start training immediately. I suggest you get your things and meet us at the gate."

"Oh! Y-yes. I'll be right t-there," Hinata responded, she scrambled to her feet and exited the room.

Koenma and Sasuke followed soon after. Making their way back to the gates, they walked by Neji who was standing not far from the meeting room they previously occupied. Neji's eyes narrowed at the sight of Sasuke. Sasuke's face, however, remained impassive not acknowledging the Hyuuga. As they passed, Sasuke caught the Hyuuga's murmured words.

"She's going to fail."

Sasuke stopped. Shoulder to shoulder with Neji, he stared straight ahead as he spoke his next words.

"Then that would mean I have failed…I've never failed anything." With that he continued walking, catching up with Koenma who was looking at him curiously.

Behind him, Neji's fist clenched shaking slightly in barely suppressed anger.

Once more Sasuke was in Koenma's office in Reikai. This time Hinata stood fidgeting at his side before Koenma's desk. Sasuke's annoyance radiated off of him as he glared impatiently at the now toddler form of Koenma.

"What are we waiting for now?" He grunted.

Koenma shook his head at the Spirit Detective. "Have a little patience Sasuke. I can assure you it'll be worth your while."

Sasuke crossed his arms but remained silent much to Koenma's relief. Hinata was shifting restlessly beside him. She was gently chewing her bottom lip once more, which he picked up meant something was on her mind. Eventually he finally got fed up with her. He looked at her out the corner of his eyes.

"What is it?" He prodded.

The Hyuuga looked at him surprised, as though she couldn't believe he picked up on her obvious hints. She gave him a weak smile, then shifted her gaze to the ground.

"I...I just wanted to say thank y-you. For b-believing in me..."

"Hn. Just make sure you don't make me regret it," he replied, though the smirk on his lips softened the blow indicating he was just teasing her.

Rather than being offended, Hinata nodded her head. She looked back up at him, more steadfast than she did before.

"I won't let you down."

After a few moments of gradually growing awkward silence, a loud bang resounded through the room bringing the occupants attention to the large doors behind Sasuke and Hinata.

"We're here!" Naruto announced with a large grin. Beside him walked Sakura who rolled her eyes.

"As though they couldn't tell," she snapped.

The two stopped beside Sasuke. Naruto curiously looked over Hinata, whose cheeks were gradually turning red at being stared at, before his eyes lit up in recognition. He pointed a finger at the girl.

"You're a Hyuuga! Wow! I never seen one up close before," The blonde brought his face mere inches from Hinata, gazing into her eyes "Such cool eyes! Hey are you fighting with us? Sasuke-teme is a real slave driver ya know-"Naruto was interrupted by the sharp pulling of his collar as he was jerked back from Hinata by Sasuke.

"Could you be any more annoying Dobe," Sasuke hissed, glaring at the fox demon.

"Could you be any more of a bastard!?"

Hinata looked on wide eye as the two began to get physical. Sasuke was holding Naruto in a headlock when a throat was cleared beside her bringing her attention to a pretty pink haired woman with bright emerald colored eyes. She wore a sheepish smile as she looked at the fight between her teammates.

"Don't mind them, they're always like that, "Sakura explained, though that didn't seem to ease Hinata's concern any. She turned to face the Hyuuga and outstretched her hand "I'm Sakura. And you are..?"

Hinata took her hand and briefly noted the strong grip the other girl had. She smiled softly at her as she shook Sakura's hand.

"H-Hinata of the Hyuuga. I-I'm on your team for the t-tournament…"

"Oh! You're the reason Sasuke came here. You must be a good fighter."

Light pink brushed Hinata's cheeks, she darted her eyes to the floor in obvious discomfort.

"I-I don't know about that…but…but I'll try m-my best."

Hinata looked up as hands were gently placed in her shoulders. Sakura's eyes were filled with warmth, her lips curled into a kind smile.

"Trust me, if Sasuke didn't think you were a capable fighter you wouldn't be here. Have more confidence in yourself."

Hinata's face brightened at the encouraging words, a wide smile crossed her face.

"Thank you Sakura…"

"Ahem. If it's alright with all of you, I'd like to get down to business," Koenma spoke up.

Hinata and Sakura were immediately at attention. Sasuke smashed Naruto's face into the ground then stood straight as though nothing had occurred. Naruto sat beside him attempting to reset his broken nose before his accelerated healing occurred, mumbling to himself about the revenge he'd extract on the dark haired boy.

Koenma mentally shook his head. Why he continued to hire what were essentially teenagers, he'd never know.

"Now that I have your attention, I want you all to understand the magnitude of what you're about to undertake. The Dark Tournament is not for the faint of heart. Almost everyone will be an enemy. Sasuke and Sakura, you will be targeted because you are Spirit Detectives as well as humans. Naruto and Hinata, you will be considered traitors to the demon race for working with them. You all have to remain strong, not just physically, but mentally as well…" A serious air descended upon the group, even Naruto's face was absent of the playful look he usually wore. "I want you all to be prepared as possible…that is why I've brought on someone to help with your training. He is a former member of Reikai Special Defense Force, if anyone can help you reach your potential it is him. George!"

The large blue ogre, who had been surprisingly quiet the entire time, now stumbled towards his diminutive boss looking nervous as ever.

"Yes Lord Koenma?"

"Well don't just stand there, bring him in!" Koenma snapped.

George scurried to a normal sized door on the side of the office. He disappeared behind it for only a few seconds before passing through it again. This time followed by a curious looking man with silver hair, a mask covering the lower part of his face, and what appeared to be some kind of headband covering his eye. The man didn't seem to be paying attention to his surroundings. Rather he was immersed in a small book with an almost gleeful look to him. He moved without problem however, ultimately stopping beside Koenma's desk.

"This is Kakashi Hatake."

Kakashi finally looked up to look at the team he would be taking under his wing. From the expression on his face, he wasn't impressed. The feeling appeared to be mutual among Sasuke, Naruto, Sakura, and even Hinata, despite her best efforts to be polite. To them, he looked like a weird old man. Though to be fair, Kakashi looked to only be in his late 20s, perhaps early 30s.

"So these are my new cute little students…please treat me well." There was something almost menacing about the way he said it, as though he didn't expect them to last very long. "Well then…shall we begin?"

Chapter 2 is complete! Glad to be getting some positive reception about this. Slightly shorter than the first, but will definitely be much longer in chapter 3. Next chapter will go into parts of their training as well as their arrival at the tournament. Stay tuned!