I wish I owned DBZ, but I don't. I own DVD's and tapes, but it just isn't the same. I also don't own the rights to any of the music pieces you see selected, just copies of merchandise, such a shame. The artists that created them are geniuses and we all must bow to them.
Chapter 88: Dark Tourney 11: Final Round Begins
Verto sat in the woods alone for several hours, meditating some in order to make sense of the situation. He also kept an eye on Yusuke's position as he appeared to be undergoing some sort of final preparations. Verto had sensed Yusuke's power go up and drop off regularly, but there was something strange about it.
At his current level, I seriously doubt he'll beat Toguro. But something feels way off here. There is a truck load of potential within him, but it's almost as if his current state is in its way, holding it back like a river dam. If he could ever unlock it, he could go toe to toe with me. Even his current power seems suppressed, and it's a great deal more than it was the other day. It must have something to do with what his teacher put him through and why her power dropped off so much. Verto silently wondered how the other members of Team Urameshi were going to handle their own fights. He didn't have a clue to what Bui and Karasu brought to the table, and they had yet to fight due to Verto running the gauntlet against the Saiyans. He had a fairly good idea what Elder Toguro would do against whoever he was matched with, and depending on their own abilities, they would have their hands full.
I don't like Kuwabara's chance against any of them. Though Kurama and Hiei's matches are complete tossups too, I guess anything could happen now. I really should have watched their semi-final to know a little more. That brought him to his own opponent, Ranot. His power was not unlike Frost's as far as the level of evil Verto had sensed, not to mention strength. Ranot had toyed with him without even trying, and Verto was certain that his Berserker power would not be enough to face him, even at full intensity.
Even though I fought him while I was low on energy, I have to assume that he is just as strong as Frost if they had fought evenly before. He might be even stronger than that if he was able to break Frost's ultimate form. And even if he doesn't have some sort of special Psi technique, it's going to be hard enough to win, never mind kill him. He was so strong that my Psi sword didn't even touch him, energy barrier or not. Frost was like that too, but I at least cut into him a little, though that was with Super Mystic. Even if a triple Kaio-ken works, I can't imagine I'll be able to hold it for long, assuming it triggers a transformation like Leira claims it can. And whose to say that'll even be enough either? I need something else to surprise him. Verto's thoughts were put on hold when he sensed a strong presence coming closer. He recognized the high amount of spirit energy almost immediately, though that wasn't a surprise considering he had fought against it the day before and he slept in the same room. Laysh landed nearby and stepped closer, causing the ground to freeze under her feet. She had changed into a dark blue jumpsuit that Verto had left out, but hadn't put the armor on, so her feminine features stood out a little more than usual.
"So this is where you've been hiding. Guess you're not going to run away after all," Laysh said, sounding disappointed.
"Nice to see you too," Verto muttered back.
"Does anyone eat around here? I don't wish to bump into the captain after all and the only thing I've seen you eat is one of those weird bean things. I'm starting to wonder if you're actually a Saiyan," Laysh pointed out.
On cue, Verto's stomach growled and shook the landscape, "You just had to ask it to say hello, didn't you? There goes any concentration I had."
Laysh smirked, "Well, perhaps I stand corrected."
Verto stood up, "Well, sorry about that. With all that's gone on, I must have forgotten about hunger. One of those beans is supposed to keep you full for awhile, but that's on the average person. We're not exactly average are we?"
Laysh shrugged, "It's understandable for you to forget hunger right now. After all, you may be dining in Hell tomorrow as it is."
"So nice to get a confidence boost. Do you charge a fee for any other favors?" Verto joked.
Laysh's expression changed, "Just show me where I can get some food, otherwise I'll rip off your leg and eat that!"
Verto put his hands up defensively, "Easy o' queen of the lions, we'll find something." The two walked back towards the hotel at a slow pace, though that was more Verto's doing as Laysh had to keep stopping and waiting for him to catch up.
"Any day now you little brat!" she snapped at him.
Verto glanced up at her and picked up his walking speed, Geez, I'm so used to Lenz that I forgot how most Saiyan women can be. Only a matter of time before she starts unleashing violence just to hold a conversation.
"Not to divert you too much from your appetite, but what can you tell me about Ranot, specifically any special abilities he might have?" Verto asked. Laysh stared down at Verto, as if she were confused at the question.
"I take it that's a no? Guess that makes zero out of two," Verto grumbled.
"You don't actually think you can win do you? You clearly don't understand what kind of person you're dealing with. The captain once killed a cook just for being one second late with his meal," Laysh explained.
"You're not gonna do me in for that are you?" Verto asked.
Laysh pulled back as if she was going to deck him, "Don't tempt me!"
Verto waved it off, "I get that he's evil to the core, this isn't my first time fighting someone as cruel as he appears to be. At least he didn't kill you."
Laysh bared her teeth and let Verto have it in the face, knocking him down, "You think he couldn't have? That was the whole point runt! Stupid boy, death would have been preferable to endless humiliation! He let me live so I could watch my teammates suffer and die. The only reason there was anything left of Dorit was so you could see how terrible he actually is before he does the same to you!"
Verto wiped off his chin as he got back up in all seriousness, "I told you, I get it. If this bastard wants to psych me out, he better just stop because it won't work."
"Only because you're too dumb to fall for it!" Laysh glowered.
Verto's nostrils flared, "Alright, if that's how you see it, let me tell you a story. I was once forced to kill several of my friends because I couldn't completely control my power at the time, sometimes I still can't. The same creature that enslaved my body forced me into slaughtering thousands of its own mindless minions just to see if I could morally handle it. They cried out for help as they were being controlled and funneled to their deaths. And believe me, I gave everything I had and then some to kill that fucking thing. So don't talk about knowing cruelty, it's nothing new to me." Laysh was slightly taken aback by Verto's sudden change of tone and wisely backed off.
"I…I didn't realize it. You hide your troubles well. I was thinking you were just a brave compassionate fool," she claimed.
"Sometimes I let it show and sometimes I don't. At least I can feel and I'm not afraid to show those feelings. If I have to feel shitty or guilty about something, I'm all for it. I already feel bad when it comes to your teammates that didn't need to die. So unless you want another long-winded speech about what has happened, I suggest you drop it," Verto said in a low, threatening tone. Laysh stared at the ground while Verto walked ahead for the moment.
He turned on his heel when he didn't sense her moving, "Well, are you coming or not? You're the one who wanted food after all." Laysh snapped out of her stupor and quickly joined him as they neared the hotel.
Outside near the beach, they both sensed a fluctuating power level, to which Verto decided to investigate. There they found Yusuke, concentrating his power into an intense aura as Kuwabara looked on, stunned.
"Hmph, not bad for a lowly human," Laysh said.
"Don't knock humans, they can surprise you," Verto suggested.
Laysh looked down at him in clear and confident disbelief, "I'll take your word for that." Yusuke powered down and stared back at Kuwabara, who was carrying on about something when they got within listening range.
"…You gotta check out my totally fresh bad guy slicin' and dicin' mega awesome super sword!" Kuwabara boasted as he held out a strange hilt with no blade. Laysh and Verto both allowed their eyebrows to rise in confusion as they glanced at each other while someone else ruined his moment.
Hiei stepped out from the far cliff side as his red eyes faded from a glowing state, "Do you think it's possible that you could shut up?"
Yusuke looked unfazed by his sudden arrival, "Hey Hiei."
Kuwabara pushed it though, "Hey you better watch it! You really shouldn't sneak up on the guy who's holding the world's most powerful sword…ugh what the heck happened to your arm?"
Verto's eyes narrowed as he saw multiple slashes all over Hiei's right arm, as it was covered in blood and burns; Was he training with that black dragon technique?
"It wouldn't obey when I gave it a specific command so I decided it needed to be punished," Hiei replied coolly.
Verto's eyes darted to his right as he picked up a new presence while Kuwabara laughed nervously, "Okay, way too much information for me. So uh, where's Kurama?"
"Kuwabara, I've been standing next to you for some time now. A bit nervous are we?" Kurama answered from behind.
"Uh, so we just need to find the old lady. Has anyone seen her?" Kuwabara asked.
Yusuke frowned as he stared off at the sea, "She's not coming, she's not well. So he's going to fight in her place."
"Uh, who?" Kuwabara asked just before Verto jumped down next to him with Laysh in tow, "Geez, will you all quit sneaking around on me! Hey wait, I thought the big guy was the substitute?"
Yusuke turned around, "We're not using him, he's been in league with Toguro this whole time."
"But I thought this freaky kid was with Toguro? Will someone please tell me what's going on around here?" Kuwabara asked as he held his head.
"Is this one of the humans that could surprise me? He's got to be the biggest idiot I've ever seen," Laysh declared. Kuwabara shifted his confused and glazed over expression to her as Hiei laughed.
"I've been saying that for months now, you'd think it would sink in," Hiei said. Kuwabara was speechless upon looking at Laysh, which began to annoy her quickly.
"What, have you got a problem with what I said?" Laysh asked.
Kuwabara stumbled towards her, "Wow she's hot! You must be Yukina's older sister!" Yusuke and Hiei promptly face-faulted while Kurama kept things to a mild chuckle.
Laysh was confused enough that she turned to Verto, "Is that a compliment or an insult, it sounded like both?"
"I don't know, but you'd better decide before he..." Verto tried to say. Kuwabara tripped on his footing and fell forward, trying to grab anything to keep from falling. What he managed to grab was Laysh's right breast, which was only covered by the blue jumpsuit she was wearing. He never made it to the ground before he was kicked into the rocky cliff and embedded in it. He lay sideways with a shocked and painful expression on his face, unable to speak or move for the moment.
Laysh crossed her arms and turned around, "Serves you right for daring to put your hands on a Saiyan!"
Yusuke cringed, "Yikes, she's worse than Keiko! Don't tell me she's your girlfriend kid?" Laysh's death glare signaled that she was ready to pound Yusuke next before Verto cut her off.
"No she's not. And you take it easy, it was just an accident by, as you said, an idiot," Verto reminded.
"Hmph, I'm the daughter of one of our council members, he should be put to death for that!" Laysh claimed.
"Maybe, if we were in the presence of nothing but Saiyans. You got him back so I'd call it even. He should consider himself lucky for getting a feel and not getting too seriously injured or killed," Verto said in warning.
Kuwabara held his stomach painfully as he collapsed onto the ground, "Speak for yourself, owww that hurts!"
Kurama nervously looked towards Verto, "Are you two hungry? Our friends prepared too much food and we'd like to invite you to join us for dinner."
Verto chuckled, "Well that works since we're both hungry, but let me ask you something. How much is considered too much?"
"Well, there's enough to feed twelve people and there's only eight of us. And some of us eat very light so there should more than plenty for you two," Kurama said.
Verto smirked, "We accept, but you might want to order more, a lot more."
"Surely you can't eat that much before the match tomorrow," Kurama claimed.
Laysh and Verto glanced at each other before sheepishly grinning back, "You'll see."
The entire group of friends could only stand in awe as the two Saiyans ripped their meal apart. Verto had warned them to stay back before the feasting began, though that didn't stop Kuwabara from being the courageous one. He got the message when the chicken leg he had dared to touch was torn out of his hands by Laysh. He had to make sure his wrist wasn't broken and wisely stayed away afterwards. Once they slowed down, the others became brave enough to get closer to the table.
"I'll admit it kid, you certainly eat like a Saiyan!" Laysh laughed in between bites.
"Like that's hard to do," Verto replied.
Yusuke's girlfriend Keiko seemed disgusted and horrified at the same time, "Where do they put it all?"
Kuwabara's sister Shizuru was staying as far back as she could, "That's what I was wondering."
Botan, whose blue hair matched Laysh's own, decided to step in, "You really shouldn't eat so much the night before a fight. You could get stomach cramps and…" She held her scolding tongue when both Verto and Laysh gave her a deathly glare with pieces of meat hanging out of their mouths.
"Uh, never mind." The two Saiyans finished soon after, though there wasn't much left for anyone else at that point, nor did they want any afterwards.
"Sorry about the mess," Verto said as he caught their staring.
"It's not a problem, the hotel maids can handle it," Kurama replied.
The feeling of the room felt strangely awkward to Verto, though it was tough to tell who it was directed at for the moment. I know those looks, better call it a night before someone says the wrong thing.
"Alright, thanks for the chow, we'll see you in the morning," Verto said as he tugged on Laysh's arm to get her to move. There wasn't another word as they left the room, though Laysh seemed confused about it.
"What was that all about?" Laysh asked.
"No big deal, they just aren't used to seeing the behavior of an alien species. Especially ours," Verto answered.
Laysh snorted, "Hmph, like I care what they think of me. They'll all be dead soon anyway."
"Hopefully you're wrong about that," Verto said casually.
Laysh stifled a laugh, "Kid, you'll be my mate for life if you manage to beat him."
Verto paled, "Let's not go there, and I won't hold you to it either."
Laysh laughed aloud this time, "Oh don't worry, the thought of you and I together is just as much of a joke as your chances tomorrow."
It was Verto's turn to snort back, "Well, joke all you want, I'm going to prove you wrong." Verto then walked off in a different direction from his room, drawing more confusion.
"Wait, where are you going?" Laysh asked.
"Last minute training to do," Verto replied as he didn't turn around.
Laysh flew through the hall after him, stopping him in his tracks by the arm, "Are you insane? You're going to exhaust yourself before the match?"
Verto glanced down at her grip, "Oh look, someone does care. Relax, I don't intend to do much more than meditate, but there is an attack I want to work on a little. Yours inspired it."
Laysh didn't let go, "In that case, I'll come with you."
"I'll be fine on my own, believe it or not," Verto replied as he pulled away.
"If you're serious about beating the captain, you'll need all the help you can get. Besides, I'm bored and I'm older than you. So shut up and nod your head like a good boy," Laysh said in a demanded tone.
Verto shrugged, "Alright, if you really want to."
Laysh grinned lightly as her nose seemed to rise into the air a little further, "Good. After all, if I've got to put up with a pain in the ass like you, we need to start somewhere."
Verto rolled his eyes, Great, another Fasha. Although she is a bit better looking…okay stop right there! We're not letting that happen again!
Both Saiyans awoke the next morning to a rather loud telephone ring. Laysh was about to blast the source of the noise before Verto ended it by answering the phone.
"Yes, thank you. Please send up enough breakfast for six people… I know there's only two in here, just do it!" Verto shouted into the receiver before hanging up. Laysh stared in sleepy confusion at the phone while Verto was getting ready, drawing his gaze. He shrugged it off and began to open one of Bulma's Saiyan armor kits and replace his current clothing.
Verto was most of the way into the process of changing before her confusion finally caught up to him, "It's a communication device, I asked them to give us a wake up call so we don't oversleep. I know it's primitive and annoying but just bear with it. If you couldn't tell, breakfast is on the way."
Laysh yawned, "I just have never seen such a device. Though I guess these humans need to start somewhere since they don't have scouters."
Verto finished slipping on the armor and put on the gloves, "That's about the only use I ever have for those."
Laysh looked impressed by Verto's outfit, "You look good in red."
Verto grimaced, "I like blue better, what I get for letting you choose."
"Considering your crazy fighting style when you lose it, I think it matches rather well. Throw in a scouter and it's just like the old days," Laysh added.
Verto held up his capsule case, "Well I do have one, but I don't see the point if it's just for looks. Kind of a waste that I even brought it along really."
Laysh launched off the bed suddenly and grabbed Verto by the shoulders, nearly knocking him over, "You have a scouter, and you didn't say anything?"
Verto stared at her urgency, though looking at her face directly was difficult, "As much as I like the view, what's the big deal?"
Laysh backed away, resisting the urge to smack Verto across the face for staring at her chest from such a close range, "Get it out!"
Verto sighed and dug out the capsule, tossing the device to her once he unlocked it, "Why exactly do you need it so badly?"
"I can use it to transmit to the others on our coded frequency! And it'll pick up on any communication from our ship here as well!" Laysh claimed excitedly.
"Maybe anything from here, but I doubt you'll get anything from anywhere else right now. And that isn't just because of distance," Verto pointed out.
"I told you before, I'm older than you. So shut up and do as you're told! Let me decide on the right thing to do, it'll save both our asses! Clearly your parents have been far too lenient," Laysh grumbled as she turned the scouter on. Verto bit his lip and didn't answer, though it irritated him immensely to be talked down to in that manner.
"Alright, I've got it! The captain is communicating with someone, I can hear them talking!" Laysh declared as she laid the scouter down for them both to hear.
"…What is it you want Razil?" Ranot's voice asked.
"Who is Razil?" Verto asked right away.
Laysh put a finger to her lips, "Shhh, I don't know, be quiet!"
"Have you encountered the ones I told you about?" another voice asked, presumably the voice of Razil.
"Yes, it will be taken care of. That is provided that no one gets in my way this time," Ranot replied.
"It had better be. This is a chance to get dirt in Venestra's eye and get her banished from the council for good. Then the invasion can finally begin," Razil declared in a confident voice. To Verto, he sounded like an elderly man that was losing his voice, along with his youth.
Ranot was clearly disinterested, "I really don't care about your plans, so save me the speech."
"Very well, but remember that it was I that gave you the life you have now, and you are indebted to my will until I release you!" Razil rasped back.
"I haven't forgotten."
"You had better not! Don't think that I'm not aware of what you're planning either, as foolish as it is!"
"I wasn't aware that eliminating any competition would hinder you," Ranot replied nonchalantly.
"It won't, in fact it pleases me greatly since it distracts the others. I was referring to your little treasure hunt you've been on. It's very, noticeable," Razil said with disdain.
Verto heard the distinct sound of held breath before Ranot continued, "Why, whatever do you mean?"
"Even if you could find all of the crystal shards, you'll never be able to use them. I suggest you give up such a folly quest, as it is impossible," Razil claimed.
"How about you let me worry about my own business and stay out of it. I'll do your little deed so you can have your fun. After that I have no interest," Ranot said in a threatening manner.
Razil backed off, "Very well then. I'll contact you after it is done. I have another agent I must speak with now." When Verto heard nothing else, he assumed the conversation was over.
"What was all that about?" Verto whispered.
"I told you to be quiet! Don't you realize that anyone can be caught spying if they make any noise? Or are you that stupid?" Laysh shouted in his ear.
Verto winced, "You're the one shouting."
Laysh paused nervously, shutting the scouter off before she cleared her throat, "Ahem, as I was saying…"
"Save it. Now do you know anyone named Razil?" Verto asked.
Laysh shook her head, "No, and I don't know anyone named Venestra either. There's no one with those names on our ruling council."
"Then you probably don't know anything about this invasion they were talking about do you?"
"No, I know we're certainly in no condition to invade anyone," Laysh said.
Verto's eyebrow went up, "Except apparently this place."
Laysh scowled back, "I wouldn't call this an invasion. After all, four of our best soldiers were just beaten soundly by a little kid!"
Verto couldn't help but grin, "Don't you mean five?"
"Don't make me put you on ice you little crap! You didn't beat me, I beat myself when I dropped my guard!" Laysh argued.
"A loss is a loss, as they say," Verto replied.
"Are you always this annoying?" Laysh asked, exasperated.
"If there's something I'm always good at, it's verbally sparring. I can turn it up a few notches if you want," Verto offered.
"Argh, no! I can't believe I'm putting up with this. It's bad enough that I've gone from a second lieutenant on our best squad to a damned wet nurse! What's next, you need your diaper changed?" Laysh growled back. Verto just chuckled as he crossed his arms, enjoying what he could out of her gloomy mood. A knock came at the door, ending the spirited discussion when the food arrived and occupied both Saiyans' minds. Laysh kept staring at Verto though while he gobbled down his meal, looking troubled.
"Why are you so damned relaxed? You can't tell me that short training session last night has put your mind completely at ease!" Laysh claimed.
"I'll get serious soon enough, don't worry about it. It won't do any good to dwell on the fight so much that I lose myself before it starts," Verto replied.
"Hmph, well I hope you have a good game plan. You may have learned my attack, but it's not like the captain hasn't seen it. Your power levels are still too different for that half-assed surprise to matter," Laysh grumbled.
Verto huffed lightly, "I told you last night, I already had the basics of that one down, you just helped me understand it better. By the way, I'm not going to use it like you do. And I do have a plan, I just don't know if it'll work yet or not. I couldn't test it out prior to this so I'm not sure yet."
"What? Why not? You should always be certain about your battle strategies and techniques before the fight even starts!" Laysh screeched.
"I wanted to test it, but I was still too low on energy and as you said before, I would have exhausted myself. I'll test it out today, and if it works it'll make a decent impression, I promise you that," Verto reassured her.
"Argh, you're so carefree it's sickening!" Laysh growled back.
Verto rolled his eyes a bit, "I'm hardly like that. Now c'mon, it's about time." Laysh continued to mutter as they left the room.
Verto waited patiently outside the hotel entrance, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed. Laysh tapped her foot impatiently, and then started to pace a bit.
"If you want to go on ahead and find a good seat, you're more than welcome to," Verto suggested.
"I know that brat! I'm just making sure you don't stumble on the way to the arena. Wouldn't want you to quit because of a stubbed toe!" Laysh yelled back. Verto sensed the insecurity pouring out of her, though in the short time he had known her that wasn't anything new. The doors opened up a moment later, revealing Team Urameshi, headed by Yusuke himself.
"Are you ready for this?" Yusuke asked. Verto nodded surely as Laysh scoffed.
"Man, your girlfriend sure doesn't have a lot of confidence does she?" Kuwabara dared to say.
He regretted the words immediately when a long spike of ice formed in her hands and stopped an inch from his face, "How would you like to get killed now instead of in the ring?"
Verto stepped between the two and broke the long icicle with a knife hand chop, "Enough!"
"Are you sure you're not Yukina's sister? I mean you're an ice demon too right?" Kuwabara asked once Laysh didn't advance.
"Do us all a favor and stop talking for the rest of the day," Hiei advised.
"Okay, anytime shrimp man!" Kuwabara shouted back.
Yusuke took charge, "Save it you guys. Now let's go kick some ass!" The six of them walked silently towards the arena, which had been fully repaired in the short time since the semi-finals. Laysh left Verto once they were there, saying she would find a seat that 'wasn't contaminated by pond scum.' The rest of them waited in the bowels of the stadium tunnels for their name to be called.
Kuwabara kept glancing around as if he expected someone else to be there, "So Genkai still isn't here? I don't see why the old broad doesn't have to be here like the rest of us"
"She's sick, I told you that," Yusuke snapped back.
Kuwabara wasn't fazed, "Aha, well I know the perfect remedy! Let's see, first you hang upside down for awhile…"
"So tell me, what's it like living in a constant haze of stupidity?" Hiei interrupted.
"I've been wondering that myself," Verto added.
"I've had enough of your lip half-pint! Just give me a reason, both of you!" Kuwabara warned.
Verto snorted loudly, "Heh, I'll try to pretend like that was a threat."
"Yusuke, perhaps this would be a good time to tell him," Kurama whispered.
"Tell me what?" Kuwabara asked. The conversation ended when the ceiling plaster started to chip and fall away as the large tunnel doors slowly started to open and Juri's voice filled everyone's ears.
"Alright, the moment we've all been waiting for so let's begin! On my left, Team Urameshi!" Juri announced as the tunnel lit up. Massive amounts of boos rained in, making Kuwabara wince while the others were not affected. Yusuke and the others walked out single file as a few pieces of trash were thrown in their direction while Verto waited by the door. It was a planned move by himself and Yusuke that he didn't enter the arena until he was certainly needed.
"Ahem, your attention please! Now entering the arena, Team Toguro!" Juri pointed to her right. Utter silence followed as the other tunnel opened up, so much so that one could actually here the footfalls coming from it. Toguro emerged from the darkness first, with his smaller brother perched on his shoulder. Yusuke tensed up with Kuwabara shuddered nervously. Bui, the armored giant, followed close behind with little more than a deep breath. Karasu, the creepy masked man in black, also came into view, and the two teams stared each other down. It wasn't long though before everyone noticed the problem.
"What's the deal, there are only four fighters, each team should have five!"
"Without five fighters they shouldn't be allowed to fight!"
Juri pulled out a rule book, "Everyone please remain calm while I get to the bottom of this. Let's see, each of the ten players must engage in a one on one match assuming five fights are necessary. The first team to win three matches will be the champions. Sorry about that, since it is the final and neither side has used their substitution, you must have five or your team will forfeit!" This brought Verto to attention when he sensed a powerful ki coming from the other tunnel. It was suppressed, but it was enough to grab his stare down as he felt compelled to walk out onto the floor just as Ranot did. The crowd erupted into random chatter once this happened.
"Hey, look, it's that little kid from last round! What's he doing with Urameshi?"
"Who's the big guy with Toguro?"
"Excuse me, but contestant D is listed as Team Toguro's fifth man, why exactly aren't you with your team?" Juri asked as Verto stopped next to Yusuke.
"Why do you think? And by the way, my name is Verto, so you can stop calling me that," Verto retorted.
Juri paled at the stern glare he had given her, "Alright. And you, you are listed as Team Urameshi's substitute! Contestant Ranot, please explain."
Ranot closed his eyes, "Does such a thing really need to be discussed?"
Toguro smiled lightly, "It doesn't matter to us, we didn't consider that child a member of our team to begin with."
"You're just lucky I didn't decide to blow you away last time meathead," Verto shouted back.
"It's not like it matters. Your team won't make it to five fights so it's not like the little twerp will have any say in this," Karasu spoke up from the ringside.
"And you're lucky that I have bigger fish to fry," Verto countered.
"Well, no matter how you count them, all ten fighters have been accounted for. Teams please send forward your first fighters," Juri declared, giving up.
Karasu was the first to enter the ring, and Kurama stepped forward, "I will handle him."
"Ladies and gentleman, the first match of the finals is about to begin. On my right, representing Team Toguro, is Karasu!" Juri called out. A generous amount of cheers rained down, while jeers were being held ready for his opponent.
"And on my left for Team Urameshi, is Kurama!"
"This whole tournament has been an absolute roller coaster. But now finally, finally we're at the most loop-da-loop part of the ride!" Koto declared with excitement.
"You think the demons would have a problem if I blasted the speakers?" Verto grumbled.
"Go ahead, I'm more concerned about Keiko and Botan up there. I just know they're gonna start a riot in the stands and I'm not gonna be the one who saves 'em!" Yusuke claimed.
Kuwabara suddenly dashed forward to catch up to Kurama, "Hey, did you use that weird medicine stuff that Suzuka gave you?"
Kurama didn't even turn, "Actually I took some about two minutes ago."
"Medicine?" Verto asked with a confused glance.
"I ran a few experiments to test the compound and discovered that it takes a considerable amount of time to absorb into my body and change me," Kurama continued.
"Hey, clue me in, what exactly are they talking about?" Verto asked Yusuke, who only shrugged.
"So, what happened?" Kuwabara asked as he nervously kept both hands in their respective pockets.
"Suzuka was right that it would transform me, but there is a time limit. I can only sustain approximately fifteen minutes. I'm not worried though, as fifteen minutes is more than enough," Kurama finished as he jumped into the ring and walked forward. Verto crossed his arms and stared up at Kuwabara for an explanation, but the elder teen was too fixated on his teammate to notice.
Guess I'll just wait and find out instead, might be faster than waiting for this dumbass to try and explain anything. The action began to take shape in the ring, as Karasu's hand glowed bright green and Kurama tossed a pile of rose petals into the air. They swirled around him, creating a distinct smell.
"Kurama has created a whirlwind of rose petals, Karasu must stink!" Koto babbled on. More petals soared into the air as Kurama took a balanced defensive pose, guiding the swirl of flowers towards Karasu. One petal grazed the tall demon's face, and drew blood upon impact.
Each of those petals is as sharp as a knife. It's not a bad defense, but against this opponent it may not matter. Karasu was undaunted as he walked straight into the colorful display, not even bothering to guard himself. Kurama's flower parade suddenly went into overdrive and rushed towards Karasu all at once. The demon threw out his arms, and for a moment Verto through he saw something else flying through the air before Kurama's razor-sharp rose petals started exploding. The air became filled with small hot cherries that quickly died out, and Kurama was at a loss for words. Karasu continued his slow approach before he suddenly phased out, trying to grab Kurama from behind. Kurama ducked out of the way, avoiding whatever Karasu was trying to do as he gave chase. Kurama leapt into the air and summoned his Rose Whip to help keep Karasu at bay. He swung it at Karasu as he landed, only to see his whip detonate halfway there at Karasu's command, leaving only a small smoking vine in his hands.
Verto's eyes narrowed, That wasn't a blast. Something came out of his hand and blew that up. But it was either too small or too fast for me to see it from this distance. Karasu raced towards Kurama, striking with open hand claw attacks over and over, to which Kurama barely kept up with. After jumping aside, Karasu came in from the top, blocking out the stadium lights above Kurama. He jumped out of the way and Karasu's claw hit the ring and dug in momentarily. Kurama landed off balance, but Karasu didn't give chase this time. Kurama's left arm suddenly blew up with green light, and blood splattered out of it. Kurama panted heavily as he sunk to a knee and tried to recover.
"You okay?" Yusuke called out.
"Darn it, why doesn't he change? If that clown gave him bad juice I'll make him regret the day he was born!" Kuwabara shouted.
Everyone looked at him strange, "Listen to yourself," Yusuke said.
"What clown?" Verto asked. No one answered, causing Verto to grimace at being ignored, but he let it slide as Karasu lifted his left hand into the air. He leaped over Kurama and Verto saw a very small and hardly visible object leave his hand. It landed on Kurama's right leg and blew up, slowing his movement.
If I can barely detect whatever these things are, Kurama might not be able to at all. That won't be good. Both fighters remained motionless, though in Kurama's case it wasn't by choice. Karasu held out his hand and began charging his energy into it, dimming the stadium as Verto saw a larger object forming. It was long and dull-green in color, featuring three small skulls on either end of it. Karasu jumped up and threw it at the motionless Kurama, where it detonated and left a much stronger blast radius compared to the pop shots before. The wind blew around the arena, taking Juri out of the ring and making the rest of Team Urameshi block against the force of the blast. Karasu came out of the smoke cloud unscathed, but Kurama was no where to be seen.
"Can anyone see?" Yusuke asked. Verto sensed a sudden change in the energy field, but nothing definitive. Karasu glanced at his hand, which had been hit with a dagger-like rose that he yanked out in annoyance. He at least survived, but in what condition? The smoke cloud expanded, and white wisps whipped around inside as Verto felt a new surge of power coming from it. Black lightning struck the rooftop and ground as the activity in the cloud increased exponentially.
"Where's all this energy coming from?" Yusuke asked.
"I've seen all this before, this fight is in for a heart-stopping facelift!" Koto cried out with joy. The stormy smoke cloud then suddenly cleared out, leaving a newcomer in the ring and Kurama no where in sight. This new fighter had silver hair and fox-like ears to go with a bushy tail under a white gi. His eyes were a creepy shade of yellow, and he had very sharp looking claws for hands. There were a few blemishes along his arms and legs, but nothing that looked serious at this point. The rest of him seemed human enough, but the energy signal Verto sensed said otherwise.
"And it looks like I was right! It's that foxy Yoko Kurama!" Koto declared.
"Alright!" Kuwabara cheered.
"You're telling me that's Kurama?" Yusuke asked nervously.
"Yeah, what he said," Verto added.
"He goes by many titles, but this is his true name, and form," Hiei replied.
"So this is what he was talking about earlier, though I'm not getting the clown reference," Verto said.
"He was referring to Suzuka, the team captain we faced in the semi-final round. He used an array of items and techniques to try and gain the upper hand, but ultimately failed. No doubt Kurama managed to get a hold of his age-reversal potion to revert to his pure demon form for this fight. And that is Yoko Kurama," Hiei explained.
"Interesting…" Verto muttered. He stole a glance at Ranot, who was staring back at him with amusement.
"This is rather entertaining, isn't it boy? Enjoy it before I crush you," Ranot's voice said.
"Telepathic, why am I not surprised? I won't consider that to be much though, I learned it a long time ago. Let's just see what happens before I start pushing up daisies," Verto replied.
Ranot grinned, "How is the girl? I've been meaning to have another, chat, with her."
Verto's fist cinched up, "You won't be chatting with anyone after I'm through." Another explosion broke their silent conversation, as Karasu had launched two more of his miniature objects, but they had detonated prematurely when Kurama tossed two roses into them.
He can see them now, that means he does have a chance. But he'll need something stronger than one of those tiny plants to do anything. Karasu created an array of small bat-like explosives, each with a large orange eye before he sent them off. They all flew towards Kurama, missing when he dodged them. Each took off in a different angle before swinging around and coming back, make Kurama run a little farther and faster. As he did, Karasu began to position himself to launch dozens more of the dangerous critters, which surrounded Kurama within a few seconds, leaving him no legitimate direction to run. Kurama did not panic though, and released his energy in a broad burst as the ground beneath his feet shook apart. Long, bright vines soared into the air, brushing the explosive bats aside like flies. When the light faded, a huge, purple plant was writhing around Kurama. Each of the giant plant's vines were covered in large thorns, and each flower top resembled a Venus Fly-Trap, only much deadlier and with sharper teeth. Kurama's incredible plant lunged for Karasu with several of its vines, opening each of them up to reveal another set of teeth below the leaves. Karasu darted around the ring to avoid the onslaught, which only showed how the fight had turned completely around. Karasu was cornered within seconds, but didn't remain still as he leapt to avoid one of the huge vines. He tossed another one of his bombs, trying to eliminate the threat. The plant came alive with a painful screech as Karasu landed and gathered himself. The fire faded to reveal that the demon plant had only grown angrier at him for it. Karasu continued to run, but was soon caught by one of the plant's deadly flowers. He was pulled into it by its leaves, and then the other parts of the gigantic plant joined in. Each covered Karasu, completely enveloping him in the mass of deadly leaves and teeth. It soon became a ball of vegetation as it tried to eat him, and it was clear that the fight was about to end. The demon crowd was horrified at the display of Yoko Kurama, with the exception of their esteemed announcer.
"That was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen! Kurama's plant just grabbed Karasu and juiced him like a fresh orange. I never knew botany could be so deliciously gruesome!" Koto declared.
Kuwabara promptly celebrated with some fist pumping, "Kurama sure showed that punk what was up! And he closed the deal in a measly five minutes! Take that Toguro!"
Yusuke nodded eagerly, "Just two more wins and it's done."
Verto shook his head slightly, Yeah, right. Even if they manage to get three wins before I go out there, it won't be over. There's no way that Saiyan will let these guys decide anything without his say. The ball of plant mass tightened its hold on its victim, and Kurama felt it was time to walk off the stage, passing by a dazed Juri who seemed to be in a stupor.
"Hey Juri, snap out of it. Tell us who won!" Koto called out.
Juri scrambled to her feet, "Well, I'd say that Karasu has been soundly defeated by Team Urameshi's Kurama." The plant mass suddenly stopped writhing and lowered itself to the ground, making Juri run away while Kurama stopped. Verto sensed another energy surge just before the plant blew up from within, showering the area with decapitated purple vines. Behind the black smoke was Karasu, who looked very ready to continue. Verto noticed a slight change in Karasu, but only that his mask had been removed at some point.
Juri panicked slightly at the sight of him, "Sorry, my mistake everyone! The match will continue!" Verto suddenly noticed most of Team Toguro suddenly take a step back, as if they were anticipating something hazardous. Then he felt it, Karasu's power rose quickly as his hair shifted color to bright gold.
What the, don't tell me he's the demon equivalent to a Super Saiyan? No wait…it's only the appearance. His power didn't go up nearly enough to be considered that.
"Uh, can someone clue me in here, what's up with his hair?" Kuwabara asked.
"With the type of demon he is, I'd say it's an explicit sign that he's internalizing his power. The bombs he creates are now inside of him, virtually making him one giant explosive," Hiei explained.
"Are you serious?" Yusuke asked.
"Of course I am. My assumptions are correct, and he's about to detonate. If you're wise you'll take cover now," Hiei suggested. Verto guessed that Hiei was right as a bright green aura went up around Karasu as he clasped his hands together while he laughed slightly. Verto's eyes also widened as Karasu became engulfed in a mass of energy which soared into the air before coming back down, straight at Kurama. The target didn't budge an inch, and the ring was swallowed in the explosion that followed. Verto didn't move any from the blast, but Yusuke and the others were forced backwards. The bulk of the blast went the other way though, cutting a wide hole in the upper stadium wall and creating a skylight. Dozens of demons lay dead in the ripped bleachers, leaving the rest feeling lucky that they hadn't been hit. Yusuke shoved a boulder off of him as he and Kuwabara recovered while Hiei jumped down from the stadium wall.
"Is everyone alright?" Yusuke asked.
"Fine, but what's with the kid? He didn't even move!" Kuwabara pointed out. Verto didn't look back even though he was being stared at.
"Maybe now you'll realize how powerful he actually is, idiot. I suggest you focus on the match if you don't want to be blown to pieces," Hiei replied.
"I've had enough of you!" Kuwabara growled back. Verto scanned the ring, spotting Karasu quickly among the smoke. He barely sensed Kurama's presence at all due to the energy that had detonated, but it was there. A pile of rubble shifted off as Kurama stood up, but with one glaring difference that Koto was only to happy to explain.
"Oh my, that Kurama is like a nasty virus, you just can't get rid of him. However, it looks like that last explosion has taken its toll, as Kurama is back down to his original human form," she rattled off.
"Aw crap, the potion wore off. Now he's really going to have to wing it," Yusuke pointed out.
"Wha? I don't get it, there's no way it's been fifteen minutes!" Kuwabara claimed.
"He's right, it hasn't even been half of that yet. That explosion must have caused enough damage to make that transformation wear off early," Verto added. Karasu approached Kurama in a slow, confident manner as he likely noticed by now how weakened Kurama had become. Kurama pulled another rose out and attempted to manipulate it, only to have it shatter in his hands.
Verto shook his head, "He's too weak. The transformation only protected him from dying, but unless he's got another trick up his sleeve, he's not winning this one."
"Damn it," Yusuke muttered. Kurama jumped back into the ring suddenly and charged Karasu, attempting to kick him. Karasu dodged easily, but was surprised that Kurama continued to chase him down, attempting to strike in anyway he could. Karasu dodged each blow narrowly, but was kept from counter-attacking as well for the moment.
"He has a plan, it's obvious in the way that he moves," Hiei noted.
"It's risky, whatever it is. Being that close to someone that has a great deal more power to use is suicidal," Verto said. Kurama avoided a sudden blast attempt by Karasu and landed a two-palm strike to Karasu's midsection, knocking him backwards. Karasu got up quickly, and then pulled a very tiny object out of his bleeding chest.
So that's it, Kurama tried to plant another one of his seeds in Karasu, but he saw it coming. He's not going to be able to outwit him easily. A small object suddenly sprouted around Kurama's leg, holding it in place as another bomb came up with it. The following explosion tore a hole in the side of Kurama's leg, sending a red shower splattering to the ring as Kurama lay on the ground painfully. Karasu laughed as he held out his hands again while Kurama tried to get up. The unaware Kurama managed to make it to his feet, but he was surrounded by small balls of green light.
Yusuke ran towards the edge of the ring, "Don't move, you're surrounded by bombs!" Kurama froze in place as his eyes darted from left to right, eyeing what would certainly spell doom for him. Karasu walked closer, speaking in a soft manner that was likely putting Kurama down in some way. After a moment, Karasu lifted one hand back up, and one by one, each bomb struck Kurama's body, leaving bloodied pop marks upon each hit. Kurama sunk to his knees as his blood stained the ring from his limbs, and for a brief second, the onslaught halted so Karasu could speak again.
"He's toying with him," Verto said with a deep scowl. Kurama managed to stand once again in defiance, as if he still saw a chance to win. Verto sensed no additional energy within him at the moment, He's got to be out of options by now, so what will he do if he's given another chance? Karasu seemed bored and directed the rest of his bombs to hit Kurama almost all at once. Kurama's screams echoed in the arena as his body became even more battered and bloody.
"No!" Yusuke shouted. Kurama dropped back to the ground and lay motionless while the demon crowd erupted with cheers. It seemed that as Kurama's life faded, it brought the once silent crowd back into play as they began to celebrate.
Juri ran over quickly, "Okay! If he stays down for ten, Karasu wins! One…Two…" The crowd began to shout for more brutality out of Karasu, who merely stood by and waited. At the count of six, Kurama barely managed to get to his hands and knees, which were likely so injured that he couldn't go further. Verto sensed another energy surge from both Kurama and Karasu, and he knew there was some sort of definitive conclusion coming. Karasu launched another blast as Kurama's body glowed with bright purple. A mass of blue plant vines came up out of the ground and rushed towards the unprepared Karasu. It struck him in the chest approximately where the seed had failed before, and began to suck a great deal of life energy out of Karasu. Kurama dropped to the ground, completely unconscious, while Karasu's skin turned pale white as his life force rapidly vanished from Verto's senses. Karasu fell backwards as the plant moved over him, presumably to finish what was left of the corpse. Verto's attention was drawn to Kurama, who was barely hanging on to his own life.
Did he just sacrifice himself?
"He's fading!" Kuwabara pointed out. The arena was drowned in silence for another minute and a half before Kurama started to show signs of movement again. Yusuke and Kuwabara gasped in disbelief as Kurama managed to get to both feet again. Verto sensed another slight variation within Kurama, but it wasn't one of concern by any means.
That transformation must have strengthened him enough that he could survive such a strain on his body at this level. He got really lucky.
"Yes, that's how we win this!" Yusuke declared.
"Man he sure got jacked up, but I'd say he won!" Kuwabara added.
Juri looked on with confusion, "Um, hold on."
"And the winner by total gross-out is Kurama and the folks of Team Urameshi!" Koto declared.
"You sure made a nice flower pot out of him Kurama!" Yusuke cheered. Verto nodded slightly until he saw the look of distaste on Hiei's face. He glanced over at Team Toguro, who didn't look all that disappointed.
"What is it?" Verto asked as Yusuke jumped into the ring to assist Kurama.
"They don't look like a team that just lost a man. What do they know that we don't?" Hiei pointed out. Kurama collapsed as Yusuke congratulated him, leaving Verto a reason to go help them.
He got close enough to hear what Kurama was saying, "I'm sorry Yusuke. If only I could have lifted myself a fraction of a second sooner."
"What are you talking about? Relax, you won," Yusuke reminded.
"It's unwise to be so confident before an official announcement," Kurama claimed.
Verto's eyes widened, "Are you saying you lost? Doesn't look like it to me." All eyes went to Juri, who had the microphone in hand.
"And the official announcement says, the winner of the match is Karasu!" she declared.
"WHAT?" Yusuke shouted. Verto's jaw dropped in sync with all of Team Urameshi and half of the crowd as Toguro only smiled.
"Huh? And now the fair and impartial Juri is saying that the winner is the late Karasu? I know we all saw Kurama destroy him!" Koto commented over the airwaves.
"It's not fair, these judges have had it out for us since the first day!" Kuwabara grumbled.
"Something definitely isn't right about this," Verto muttered as he glanced up at the video screen, showing the scoreboard.
Yusuke stomped towards Juri and grabbed her by the shoulder, "Hey, you with the big fish ears. You mind explaining to me how a dead guy wins?"
"Hold it, I'd like it if you removed your hand," Juri scolded.
"I'd like it if you removed your head from your ass, but I don't see that happening anytime soon!" Yusuke shouted at her face.
"I won't talk to you, until you can keep your grimy fingers to yourself," Juri retorted as she pulled away.
Yusuke held his fist just below her chin, "I'll put these grimy fingers through your face if you don't tell me how a breathing guy loses!"
Juri had enough of this, "Fine, your friend lost the dumb match because he was down for ten seconds after I started counting!"
Yusuke pulled back, "Oh, then why didn't you say so?"
"Jerk ass!"
Yusuke turned towards Kurama, "Hey, you know what she's talking about?"
Kurama groaned sluggishly as Verto helped him to his feet again, "Yes I'm afraid." The video screen shifted to a replay, which briefly displayed the bloodied ending to the match up until the point that Kurama had collapsed. A timer came up just as Juri started counting, and it slowly ran off ten seconds. Kurama's deadly plant came out of the ground at nearly the eight second mark, and didn't strike Karasu until just after ten seconds had passed.
"See, ten point two-eight seconds," Juri pointed out.
"Well, that's a first. Since Kurama's killing blow didn't come until the match was technically over, we have for the first time ever a winner that is dead and a loser that isn't," Koto finalized.
"He's not a loser!" Kuwabara shouted back.
Verto shook his head and helped Kurama hobble back to where the others were standing, I can't even call that a moral victory. The demons cheered briefly again before a 'two more to go' chant started, which only served to anger Yusuke.
"Oh shut up, that's not even a clever chant!" Kuwabara roared again, "Oh well, at least everyone on our team is still alive!"
"You just don't get it!" another soft voice said. The crowd silenced themselves as Elder Toguro jumped off his brother's shoulders and into the ring.
"Your observation is as usual short sighted and very incorrect," Elder Toguro said, drawing everyone's attention.
"Hey, what's that supposed to mean?" Kuwabara asked.
"Even if by some cruel cosmic joke you survive your matches, you forget that each of the champions is granted a wish. Once my team wins and my wish is awarded, I'll wish for the death of you and all your friends!" Elder Toguro declared. The crowd cheered with random shouts of agreement, which only agitated Kuwabara more.
"I've had it up to here with this moronic chanting!" Kuwabara yelled.
"Forget world peace, I'll just wish for muscles!" Yusuke declared before Hiei stepped up.
"Want to know what I'll wish for when we beat them? The bloody death of that entire corrupt tournament committee so I'll never be pulled into one of their charades again!" Hiei said.
Verto cocked an eyebrow, "That's, original."
Elder Toguro laughed, "Well, before my wish can be granted, I'll enjoy very much beginning the annihilation of you personally. Go ahead, pick your first martyr." Verto was tempted to enter the ring, but didn't have to react as the large Bui interrupted his teammate by stepping into the ring. Elder Toguro clearly hadn't expected this, but bowed out to make way for the armor-clad giant.
"I'll take the big guy. I've got some pretty big guns myself!" Kuwabara claimed.
"Ha, don't be ridiculous," Verto laughed.
"Oh, if only you were closer to my height I'd dare you to say it to my face!" Kuwabara shouted back. Verto was tempted to float up to meet that request, but when Kuwabara turned around and stayed quiet, he opted to not press the issue.
"Yusuke, I planned on taking the thug with the sunglasses for myself, but after what he did to Genkai I believe vengeance belongs to you," Hiei said just before he phased into the ring.
"Um, Hiei? I thought I had the big guy?" Kuwabara asked.
Hiei ignored him and walked forward, "This thug will do just as well." Verto stared past Bui at Ranot, who was only a little smaller by comparison.
"This should be an interesting bout. That midget won't know what hit him, wouldn't you say boy?" Ranot asked telepathically.
"Are you trying to suggest he doesn't have any shot at beating that big goof? You really need to pay attention. These guys aren't as powerless as you and I might think. In our dimension, they would be a threat with the right training and technique. Especially that one," Verto replied.
Ranot huffed slightly, "Ha, perhaps. Or perhaps your misguided arrogance causes you to be blind to what happens around you. How long would you like to wait before we have our match?"
Verto turned his head slightly, "I don't really care when it is. But just so you'll shut up, how about next? We could even start it off here and then move elsewhere while they finish up."
Ranot grinned evilly, "Oh no. All these peons are going to witness your complete and utter destruction, whether you like it or not. You're on, and your life ends as soon as this next match does!"
A/n: Tic tock, tic tock…