A.N. So sorry this chapter is late. I was all ready to post on the scheduled date, my birthday, then I suddenly realised I'd made a mistake that was going to cause a MASSIVE plot hole unless I rewrote about 80% of this chapter. It's fixed now, and I'm SO sorry for the delay. It will not happen again!

DCD Gojira/Layla347: Thanks! Hope you like this one too!

Ghost of Magic: Glad to be back, and glad to see you're back too!

Hina714: Isn't that a great question. I'm still looking for my own Kurama. But yes, Sakura is so so lucky. There's more peaceful moments coming, don't worry. After the tournament, she deserves it. I hope you like this chapter. It's dense!

NightWolfRUNNER: I wonder what you'll think of this one!

Sakura-chan: You'll find out today, and there's plenty more Sakura x Kurama moments to come.

hw0134160: Ahhhh! My ray of sunshine is back! Yeah, I had so much fun writing the Golden Seal. It might not really fit into the canon, but it still makes for a great bonus chapter. And like you, I had to remember they didn't have all those new moves, but Sakura's Reflection Shield seemed like a good compromise. I agree, Botan's a bit underrated in my mind. I need to give my girl some moments. I agonised over how much to share in the preview without giving too much away. But I'm so thrilled you loved the first chapter. The Sakura x Kurama moments are a joy to write. Things will only heat up from here :) You'll have to wait and see how the girls at Kurama's school handle Sakura's presence.

Scarface won't be taking Chapter Black. Koenma mentions that Sensui took it when he vanished from being Spirit Detective. I'm so glad to have finished college, and I ended up having a very nice birthday despite the lockdown. Unfortunately, as of today it's been extended for at least another week. The vaccine rollout here has been an absolute mess - long story. Fun fact: when I was little, Mama told me that America set off fireworks on my birthday and I got so excited about it. If only I'd known at the time haha!

Wolfs child: Here you go. Enjoy!

Hope you all enjoy this chapter. If you haven't, please follow/favourite and leave a review.

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 2

Genkai observed the duo out of the corner of her eye. "It's strange to see you arriving without the dimwit in tow, Missy,"

Sakura squeezed Kurama's hand a little tighter. "Yusuke had homework,"

"Humph," Genkai took her place at the table and began pouring tea for them. "Sit down, both of you,"

Silence followed for the next few minutes. Kurama seemed serene as ever, but Sakura was visibly nervous.

"Genkai," Sakura said at last. "I'm ready to learn my task, whatever it is,"

The old woman smiled faintly over the rim of her cup. "I know you are, Missy," She glanced at Kurama. "But I have a feeling that your fox also has something urgent to say. What's on your mind, Kurama?"

As usual, Kurama's face did not betray the concern inside. "Master Genkai, Kura has received three unknown visions, all of the same person over the past two days," He handed over the paper containing Sakura's writing. "I have my theories, but I am curious to hear your thoughts on the matter,"

Genkai took the paper and read over it carefully. "Is this what you heard, Sakura? In your dream?"

"Yes," Sakura's hands were beginning to tremble and she quickly set her tea down. "Though I'm not sure if it's a dream. It feels so real,"

"What do you see?" Genkai pressed.

Sakura took a breath. She could feel Kurama's hand on her thigh under the table, and it gave her strength.

"It's always very dark. The man who speaks to me is little more than a silhouette," she said slowly. "I can't ever make out his face, or anything. But he speaks to me every time,"

Genkai listened intently while staring at the paper. "And this is what he says?"

"That's right," Sakura nodded. "He's also said that the distance is wide, and that I'm not strong enough to know him yet. I don't know what it means,"

"And you don't have any idea of who he is?"

Sakura shook her head almost sadly. "No. I honestly don't have a clue. But his voice sounds… ancient. Like he's speaking from a great distance. That's the only way I can describe it. And for some reason, his presence doesn't frighten me,"

Genkai stood up and began pacing. "Interesting. Most interesting," she mumbled. "Kurama, tell me what you think first,"

"I wouldn't presume to have more insight than you, Master Genkai," Kurama said carefully. "But given the training Sakura has undergone with you and Master Shinsuke, I wonder if this might be Foresight activating within her,"

Sakura's head started spinning. "Foresight? How is that possible?"

"Perhaps," Genkai didn't look up. "That last match she fought in the tournament was taxing, to put it mildly. New abilities can awaken after experiencing great emotional upheaval. But this last line…" Genkai read over the words. "Right here, 'a great danger is coming'... you're absolutely positive that's what you heard, Sakura?"

Sakura rubbed her forehead. "That's right. He's said it twice. But Toguro and the rest of them, they're all gone. What could it mean?"

"Who knows?" Genkai sniffed. Then, to the shock of Sakura and Kurama, she tore the paper to shreds before tossing it out the window. "And more importantly, what does it matter?"

The old psychic turned back to her stunned visitors. "This vision is the least of your worries right now," she said rather haughtily. "Of course danger will come. It always finds us in the end. We can only rise to the challenge as we receive it. Speaking of which, that's precisely the reason you're here, right?"

"But, Genkai -"

"No buts, Missy. In any case, this vision could be foresight, but to me, it seems far more likely that someone is calling across another dimension. Your powers are nowhere near strong enough to reach that far yet. Either way, it doesn't sound like you can do much at the moment. My advice is to put it out of mind for now, and focus on the task ahead,"

Sakura opened her mouth to argue, but quickly shut it. "Very well, Genkai," She knew better than to try and disagree. Honestly, the old woman was probably right.

Genkai sat back down at the table and poured another cup of tea for herself. "Now, to business. You know there's a task you need to complete. One that involves Master Shin,"

The girl's head bowed. Her throat was tight, but the feel of Kurama's hand on her leg was comforting. "Yes, and I'm ready to do whatever is necessary,"

"Good," Genkai grunted, and took another sip of tea before darting her eyes to Kurama. "How much do you know about Master Shin's history?"

Kurama squeezed Sakura's hand lightly. "I only know the skeleton version. Kura merely told me the basics, about what Toguro did to his young students in revenge,"

"Revenge?" Genkai raised an eyebrow. "Is that what Shin told you, Missy?"

"Well… yes," Sakura replied, shocked. "He told me that it was vengeance for his refusal to teach the Toguro brothers in his psychic abilities,"

Genkai sighed and shut her eyes. "Damn it, Shin. You only told her half the story,"

"What do you mean?" Sakura asked rather sharply. Her heart was beginning to beat much faster. "Please, tell me!"

"Settle down, Missy," Genkai ordered. "It's nothing worth panicking over. Just listen,"

Kurama's arm went around Sakura's tiny waist. It's alright, Kura. I'm here.

"The day of Yusuke's fight against Toguro was exactly fifty years to the day Toguro became a demon," Genkai began. "And no, it's not coincidental. I'm sure Master Shin showed you that old memory of us training for that tournament?"

Sakura nodded. "Yes, he showed me a few memories. I felt like there was more he wanted to tell me but then…" she didn't know how to complete that sentence. "We got interrupted," she finished in a small voice.

"Well, you were right," the old woman continued, but the pain in her eyes had not faded. "Three months before that tournament began, something happened. Something that destroyed Toguro, and sent us all on that pathway to destruction,"

The atmosphere in the room was thicker than ever, but Genkai powered through. "By this point, Toguro had earned a reputation as a powerful killer of demons. He'd built a dojo to train young fighters… but there was an enemy none of us counted on,"

Genkai paused. She seemed to be fighting back her own emotions.

"The reigning champion was a high class demon known as Kairen. He was a black-hearted giant, a virtual immortal from a forgotten age. And when Toguro was away, Kairen burst into the dojo and killed those relatively defenceless students. He wanted to make sure everyone feared him before the tournament even started,"

"Oh…" Sakura's voice faltered. She didn't know what to say.

"It was the first time Toguro had been proven vulnerable," Genkai said bluntly. "It destroyed him. He disappeared into the wilderness for the next three months, only reappearing in front of us the morning of the tournament. He seemed possessed. Detached. He killed Kairen in the final round, and was made into a demon as his prize. A demon like Kairen,"

Genkai sighed again. "Master Shinsuke was more disgusted than anyone else by Toguro's choice. And yes, he refused to teach the secrets of his mind power. So Toguro took revenge in the best way he knew how,"

Kurama looked stunned. "What do you mean? You said this was about more than revenge for Toguro?"

"Genkai…why did Toguro target Master Shin's students if he'd experienced that himself?" Sakura whimpered. "What was his reasoning behind that?"

The old lady glared. "I'm getting to it. Toguro was trying to break Master Shinsuke the exact way he'd been broken, and by doing so, prove that madness was like gravity. One push, and no-one can stop the plunge,"

Even with Kurama at her side, Sakura couldn't contain herself any longer. She let the tears fall.

It was too horrible to contemplate. Fifty years of grief and misery for Genkai and Master Shinsuke. Fifty years of suffering that neither of them deserved…

"Easy with the waterworks, Missy. Those students are the whole reason you're here," Genkai snapped. "Explaining would take too long. It's best that you see what actually went down in Spirit World when Toguro arrived. So, mahō no bōru ga arawareru!"

That oh-so-familiar orb swirled to life again, and Sakura gasped. "It's the Orakuru!"

"That's right," Genkai nodded. "Now, pay close attention…"

*~*~*

Koenma observed the large figure in front of him. Here he was, judging the enemy. How the tables had turned.

"Time to find your place, Toguro. I've arranged a thorough evaluation of the facts,"

"I don't think that's necessary," Toguro smiled. "I've already decided. I would like you to sentence me to limbo,"

Jorge's mouth hit the ground.

"You're asking me to send you there?!" Koenma spluttered. "Do you even know what limbo is?! Of all the destinations for spirits, it's by far the most horrific. Absolute misery. Every part of you sliced away except your ability to experience pain. Ten thousand years of just wishing you would cease to exist, while knowing that you won't,"

"Good," Toguro sounded satisfied.

"I've weighed your demon crimes against your human achievements. And considering that Sakyo's plan ended in part because of you, a slight punishment will be sufficient! Please, you do have time to reconsider this!"

Toguro was emotionless as always. "I've had far too much time. My choice is made,"

"Very well," Koenma sighed. "I can't convince a man with a death wish,"

Slowly, reluctantly, the toddler stamped the seal of approval.

"Ten thousand years in limbo. Take him away, Ogre,"

*~*~*

Sakura and Kurama watched in amazement. What was the reasoning behind Toguro's choice? Was it guilt over his students?

Before they could say anything, another Spirit World attendant appeared with a file from Archives. Koenma called her Ayame, and she relayed Toguro's past to the toddler. It seemed the records had been there all along in Spirit World. But there was no clear answer as to why Toguro had taken the course of action he had half a century ago.

*~*~*

"I don't understand his logic, sir," Ayame lowered the file and shook her head. "Why would he choose to become like the creature he most despised?"

Koenma looked almost sad. "That's the million dollar question," he sighed. "He may have gotten revenge, but revenge is seldom an adequate palliative for a deeply-rooted sense of guilt. He threw himself into a life of unending torture, under the pretense of acquiring ultimate power, really knowing no other way,"

Koenma and Ayame sauntered out to watch Toguro walking the final road to Limbo.

"Toguro was a complex case. He's like an anthill. The deeper you dig, the more tunnels appear. But beneath it all, I suspect you would find just a normal man. With a wounded heart, and a broken dream,"

Toguro knew she would be waiting for him before he even saw her. Genkai, the young and beautiful girl he'd loved all those years ago.

They looked at each other for a long, silent moment. Their memories, their conversations, their hopes and dreams seemed to fill the air.

"Don't tell me you're surprised," Toguro deadpanned. "You knew I would choose to go this way,"

Genkai was solemn. "You're right. I did know. And yet, I couldn't stop it,"

More silence. This would be the last conversation they would ever have. They both knew it.

"You're a hopeless dimwit," Genkai said softly. "You realise that? You've more than atoned for what happened. Kairen killed those kids, not you. But you held onto your guilt, even after the tournament. So isn't it time to let it go?"

Toguro smiled. "You still don't get it. That incident opened my eyes. It enabled me to pursue the power I'd long craved. I'm actually thankful for what Kairen did,"

"LIAR!" Genkai shouted, horrified.

Toguro was unconcerned. "Don't mourn me, Genkai. Like you said, this is the way I wanted it to end,"

At last, he began to walk past her, but he paused for just a moment. There was one more thing he had to tell her before they parted.

"Don't stay here trying to figure me out. You have a job to do. Your apprentice, Urameshi. He can still be stronger. But without your guidance… well, look at me. That should open your eyes, I think,"

"You really care about Yusuke," Genkai could see the truth now. "In your own screwed-up way, you've been teaching him too,"

She smiled in spite of herself. "Don't ever feel regret for the things between us,"

Toguro turned around and finally removed his sunglasses. "No, Genkai. But it would've been a beautiful life,"

He looked at her for the last time, and for just a moment, she saw the man she loved.

The sunglasses went back on, and he walked away forever.

Genkai watched him go. Her heart was breaking all over again.

"You really are a big hearted fool…"

*~*~*

"Now you know the full story," Genkai paused. "Which brings us to the reason I asked you to come here today,"

Sakura swallowed. "You can tell me, Genkai. I'm ready,"

"After the Toguro brothers killed his students, Master Shinsuke believed there was a possibility that one might have escaped the carnage," Genkai said slowly. "Honestly, I think that was the one thing keeping him from falling apart completely. He clung to the hope, however faint it might have been,"

Sakura's eyes widened. "He did? Based on what?"

"I won't go into the gory details," Genkai sighed. "It was beyond horrific. There was hardly anything left of those poor children when we finally got there. It wasn't much of a premise, but let's just say the body count didn't exactly match up in his mind. There were sixteen students in his class, and Shin was adamant that one couldn't be accounted for amongst the wreckage. He insisted there were only fifteen bodies, but, if you'll forgive me, the students were literally torn to pieces. So nobody was sure, and it's not like we could ask the perpetrators,"

Despite the passage of time, Genkai's heartache was almost visible in the atmosphere.

"After that, Master Shinsuke shut himself away in his garden, and refused to endanger another young student. He was determined to try and locate the missing student with his talents, but nothing ever turned up. Still, he never gave up hope entirely,"

Sakura felt sick. She opened her mouth, but no words would form. Her beloved teacher had endured so much pain. It was threatening to overwhelm her.

Kurama placed his arms around her. "Master Genkai, what are you saying?"

"Personally, I never thought any of those children could have escaped such carnage," Genkai shook her head. "If you'd seen that smouldering wreck, you'd probably agree. However..."

Genkai turned back to Sakura. "It seems we now have new information. And there is a chance… a small chance, that one of the students is still alive,"

Sakura stood up. "What?! New information?! Tell me, please!"

"Sit down, Missy," Genkai growled. "Much like Shin's suspicion, this new evidence isn't exactly from a reliable source,"

Kurama took Sakura's shoulders and gently eased her back down. "It's alright, my love," he murmured. "Just listen. There is still much we don't know about the situation,"

"Correct," Genkai nodded in approval. "Elder Toguro was the one who told Shin right before killing him, and I need hardly remind you to take anything that creature says with a grain of salt,"

Angry tears were spilling out of Sakura's eyes. "That monster… I heard him. He was laughing like a maniac while I ran away," her body was shaking with sobs. "Master Shinsuke died alone, in pain, with so much grief… I just wish there was more I could've done…"

"Get a hold of yourself, Missy," Genkai said firmly, but not unkindly. "I need you to focus. There's one more memory to see before we talk about the next step,"

Sakura wiped her eyes and nodded with a hardened expression. "Show me everything,"

*~*~*

Genkai turned around to see who else had just arrived. "You aren't moving forward yet, are you Shin?"

The old man's grief-stricken face said it all.

"I will never get answers from Toguro, Genkai. In any case, it's too late for me to try," he said quietly. "How is it that I could never locate them? I should have searched harder -"

"Shin, you can't keep torturing yourself for what happened," Genkai shook her head sadly. "You weren't responsible for the choices Toguro made. Besides, how do you know that Elder Toguro was even telling the truth?"

"I don't," Master Shin's old body was bent with sorrow. "But my soul cannot rest while there is still uncertainty. Until I know, I will remain here. Sakura is my only hope of finally uncovering the truth,"

"And there's nothing I can do to talk you out of this?"

"Nothing in existence,"

Genkai looked at her tormented friend for a long time. "Very well, Shin," she said at last. "I'll see to it that she completes this task,"

"There's more," the mage continued. "Sakura's final match against that vile apparition will have caused immense damage. Even with Kurama and Yusuke by her side, she will need much guidance from you. She needs to learn how to heal, how to embrace the life she deserves. I do not ever want her to feel responsible for my demise,"

Genkai nodded. "Of course. I'll whip her into shape,"

"Take care of Sakura, Genkai," Master Shin sighed deeply. "She is my pride and joy, and always will be,"

*~*~*

The memory ended, and Genkai looked at Sakura with a solemn expression. "Let me explain. Master Shinsuke's soul is in a fragile and most painful state, caught between Spirit World and the Lands of the Dead. He refuses to move on until the true fate of his missing student is revealed, and nobody can persuade him otherwise,"

"You mean to say he's still suffering?" Sakura asked tearfully.

Genkai shut her eyes. "I'm afraid so. Stubborn old man. He won't listen to reason…anyway, I'm sure you've figured out your task. You need to find out whether one of the students survived, and if so, who did and more importantly what happened to them,"

Sakura buried her head in her hands and began crying again. "Master Shin… no…"

She didn't have the slightest clue where to start. It was overwhelming.

Kurama embraced her softly. "It's not your fault, love," he whispered. "None of this is your fault," he looked up at Genkai with blazing eyes.

"How can he place this task on Kura's shoulders, after all she's been through?" Kurama sounded almost angry. "Spirit World Intelligence could very easily take care of this investigation. Let them worry about it,"

"It has to be Sakura, no question," Genkai said flatly. "She's the only one who has tsunagu training from the man himself. She knows how the students were trained, which is invaluable insight. And it's unlikely that a man as stubborn as Master Shinsuke would believe anything Spirit World Intelligence would tell him,"

The old lady turned to Sakura with a trace of worry in her eyes. "You understand, don't you Missy? You're the only one who can do this,"

"And what if nothing turns up?" Kurama asked before Sakura could answer.

"Then we will know," Genkai replied. "Sakura, I called it your very own Spirit Trial, but to be more precise, it's more of a task to allow Shin's soul to rest. You're his last chance to find out what happened to the missing student, but I believe this will be healing for you as well,"

Kurama's eyes flashed. "Have either of you considered the potential danger?" he demanded, getting to his feet. "Even if the student is alive, there's no telling what kind of situation they could be in. I will not allow Sakura to be put in harm's way for a futile endeavour!"

"I think you should give us a moment alone, Fox Boy," Genkai said calmly.

Kurama did not move. Anger had risen up in him again, both from Shuichi and Yoko. He meant what he said, every word. Nobody could say if the student would be alive after all this time, what had happened to them, or who they might be with now. Not to mention that this could be a hideous lie by the Elder Toguro. A wild goose chase that would end with nothing, and leaving Sakura with more undeserved guilt and sorrow than ever.

The very idea that his precious flower could be endangered in this search was beyond unbearable. It was unconscionable. He wouldn't tolerate it, no matter who he had to lock horns with.

Sakura put a hand on his arm. "Kurama, just give me a minute with Genkai. It's alright, really,"

Kurama forced himself to calm down. "Very well,"

"Go see Yukina," Sakura suggested. "I'm sure she'd appreciate the company,"

He cupped her face. "I won't be far away, my hana," With a gentle kiss, he left the room.

Genkai calmly inhaled and set her cup down. "I need you to be honest with me, Kura," her voice was softer than usual. "I'm aware of what happened in your final match of the Dark Tournament. How are you really feeling, now that it's over?"

The girl's body seemed to crumple. "I can't explain it," she whispered. "It was the worst thing they could have done to me. The most horrible, personal, terrible moments of my life broadcast to everyone watching,"

Sakura was beyond tears. The hollow feeling in her chest was almost unbearable.

"Everyone knows. I never wanted Yusuke or Kurama or anyone else to be burdened with my darkest secrets. Maybe they were always going to find out eventually, but it was my story to tell on my own terms, and now even that power was taken away from me. However…"

She clutched the Hiruseki pendant. "It's like Yukina said, what happened to me doesn't change who I am. Who I really am,"

Sakura took a moment to compose herself, but there was genuine hope in her heart and on her face.

"I'm angry, I'm sad, and I'm afraid, but I'm still here. They fell into the hole they were digging for me, so to speak,"

Genkai smiled and patted Sakura's hand. "That's exactly right, Missy. You made it. They didn't,"

For a moment, they sat in silence.

"Kura, I'm sure you know that healing takes time," the old lady continued. "And like Master Shin told you once, scars remain. But you're not alone,"

"I want to find a way forward, Genkai," Sakura wiped her eyes. "The problem is, I don't know how to begin,"

"There's an old saying," Genkai moved closer and sat down next to Sakura. "A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step,"

Sakura looked up with a sad chuckle. "I've heard that one before,"

"Tell me something," Genkai turned serious again. "Do you blame yourself for what happened to Master Shinsuke? Even secretly?"

Sakura paused. "He did say I shouldn't, and I'm trying to remember that,"

Genkai gave her a look, and Sakura instantly folded.

"Ok, I think a small part of me does," she admitted. "I… I could have sworn I heard him speaking to me in the ring, right before I won. But… but do I actually deserve that, Genkai?"

Sakura took a breath to control her shaking voice. "My head might know it's not my fault, but I don't think my heart is there yet. I wonder if I could have done more, or if Master Shin hadn't been around when Elder Toguro was looking for me…"

Genkai listened without any judgement or interruption, and Sakura took that as permission to continue spilling her soul.

"He got me out of the way, and at the time he thought he'd saved me. But now that I know Elder Toguro wasn't trying to kill me… how can I not feel responsible? It was only because I was there that he -"

"Enough," Genkai said firmly, though she seemed satisfied. "Congratulations, Missy. You just took your first step in the journey of a thousand miles,"

Sakura blinked. "Say what now?"

"You heard me," Genkai sniffed. "Being truthful with yourself is a good place to start. And you've also told me. A problem shared is a problem halved. Completing this task is the second step, even if Kurama has certain… reservations about it,"

Sakura opened her mouth to reply, but Genkai shook her head.

"Just listen, Missy. As dangerous as this task might be, I do believe that it will be very beneficial to you. Take it from an old lady. Your inner turmoil can be used for so much more than you realise. Use your anger for good. Use it to spur you on, and solve this mystery once and for all. Can you do that? Not just for Shin, but for yourself?"

More silence. Sakura raised her head and looked at Genkai with a hard expression.

"Bring Kurama back in,"

Sensui could feel the doubt emanating from the young man, even with the detailed instructions he'd just relayed.

"Are you second-guessing your abilities, my boy? You know what must be done. With my contingency plans there is no way anyone will realise. You'll be free of the past,"

Scarface stood frozen. He was about to enter a spiritual state on an espionage mission. And not just any, but an undercover mission to steal some extremely valuable files from the depths of Spirit World's most guarded archives.

"Mr Sensui…" Scarface hesitated. "Why can't I simply take this opportunity to track down the Spirit Detective, and save us all the trouble? A surprise attack is far more practical at this point, catching them all off guard -"

Sensui smirked and shook his head. "No, Hisuru," he said calmly. "You just want to find Urameshi so you can start interrogating his sister,"

"No sir, that's not what I -"

"Don't try to deny it," Sensui shut him down. "If you want to get answers from the girl, you'll play it like I tell you. This mission is about far more than your desire for uncovering her secrets. We are going to correct the wrongdoings of this world,"

Scarface looked down. He felt ashamed. "Yes, sir. I understand,"

"This isn't a criticism, merely an observation," Sensui's tone was gentle. "Listen, my boy. We won't need to find them. They'll come to us in due time. You will get the answers you seek,"

"You mean it?" Scarface's eyes were shining, almost with the air of a child being promised candy.

Sensui nodded. "Indeed I do. Put your faith in me, Hisuru, and I will deliver. First bring me the records, and reclaim your true agency. It is the first step,"

Scarface smiled and began to shift his consciousness. "Yes, Mr Sensui. I will do as you ask,"

"Very good. I will be waiting,"

The last thing Scarface saw was the smiling face of his new saviour right before the back gates of Spirit World filled his vision.

Genkai moved back to the other side of the table as Kurama entered again. "Have you calmed down, Fox Boy?"

Kurama looked slightly ashamed. "Yes, but my feelings on the matter have not changed. I will not allow Sakura to be put at risk, and I make no apologies for that,"

"Kurama, you heard Genkai," Sakura looked determined. "It has to be me. There's no question. But that doesn't necessarily mean I'll be in danger. I'm not stupid. I know as well as anyone that all the students likely died. And even if one is alive, I'm not going to run in all guns blazing. We'll cross that bridge as we come to it. But regardless, if this is what Master Shinsuke needs to be at rest, then I'm going to do whatever I can to help him. Especially after everything he did for me,"

Sakura's voice cracked, and tears filled her eyes again. The most horrible scenarios were flashing through her mind.

"Besides, if one of those students did survive, then they might be alone, lost and in need of my help. Can you just imagine? Toguro might have let his brother torture them, or taken them somewhere terrible. They might have been brainwashed, or have amnesia. No memory, no way to save themselves. Don't I have a duty to do something about it? I can't just leave them to suffer,"

"Kura, I agree with you, but you need to realise how many years have gone by," Kurama said calmly. "You saw what Toguro's influence did to Karasu and Bui. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

He didn't want to cause her pain, but he had to make her see reality.

"There are some people who you cannot save. Some that are just… too far gone,"

Sakura locked eyes with her lover. "You know, a lot of people would say the same thing about me," she said rather coolly.

Genkai smiled faintly. Kurama stared at Sakura in utter astonishment. She had him there, and he knew it.

That look on her face was one he'd seen a few times before. When she'd vowed to win after her teacher was murdered in front of her, and when she'd broken free of the Shadow Cage against Akumu…

Kurama sat down next to Sakura and took her hands. "Alright, my love," he looked deeply into her eyes. "If you're going to do this, then I will be there with you,"

Genkai began to laugh. "Do you honestly think I was going to let her work alone?" her eyes were dancing with amusement. "I was always going to get you to help, Kurama. You have the experience and temperament for this. She'll need you,"

"And if Genkai hadn't asked, I was going to insist on it, anyway," Sakura smiled. "If Yusuke and I are a package deal, then you're my other half,"

As the words left Sakura's mouth, she knew beyond any doubt that they were true. "Whether it's saving lives or studying, I… I just can't imagine doing anything without you, Kurama,"

He looked at her with so much love in his eyes that she nearly melted.

I will not let you face anything alone again, my precious Kura.

And as long as I know that, I'll be fine. Promise.

Sakura squared her shoulders. She reached into her bag and pulled out a notebook and pen.

"If I'm going to investigate, I need as much information as possible," Her voice was low, but focused. "What did Elder Toguro say?"

Genkai was solemn. "First we need to consider whether Elder Toguro was even telling the truth. For now, let's assume he was,"

Sakura nodded. She was trying very hard not to think about that vile creature. "Did Master Shin tell you what he said?"

"Not word for word, but Elder Toguro said one had been alive the whole time, and they'd be unrecognisable now," Genkai shook her head sadly. "It's not a lot to go on, unfortunately,"

"What else can you tell me about the students?" Sakura pressed. "Do we have any idea on who may have survived?"

Genkai frowned. "I'm afraid I never met them," she said carefully. "Shin didn't want me to be around the children because of Toguro's threats. Therefore it's impossible for me to say whether one could've realistically survived,"

Sakura's face fell. "That's disappointing, but not altogether surprising," She bit her lip. There didn't seem to be much to go on, unless…

"Did Master Shin tell you anything that might help us?"

"Usually, Shin found it too painful to discuss specific details about the children with me. However…" Genkai closed her eyes and thought for a moment. "He did seem to believe that it was most likely one of his three oldest students survived. The Golden Trio, he called them. Kenji, Haruki and Sora. They'd studied with him the longest, and he was close to them all,"

Sakura's eyes widened, and she began writing quickly. "That's right. He spoke of them very briefly while telling me the story. Do you know anything about them, Genkai?"

"It's been a long time, but I remember a few details that Shin mentioned at the time," Genkai's brow creased while she thought hard. "Sora was about seven, and according to Shin, she was a sweet and gentle young girl who had a lot of fears to overcome. But she was talented, especially when it came to telekinesis,"

Kurama shook his head. "In the face of such power as the Toguro brothers, it seems unlikely that a child of that temperament could survive,"

"I agree," Genkai replied. "Remember, Shin was training these students to be psychics, not necessarily as fighters. Also, Elder Toguro's words indicated that the survivor, if any, was male,"

Sakura nodded silently. She hated the thought, but Kurama was right, as usual. This was the kind of thing she needed to consider in such a case.

"Then we have Haruki. He was maybe five or six, if I recall correctly. Very young. Shin said he was quiet, and rather naive, but definitely had great potential. Finally, there was Kenji, his oldest student at eight years old. And frankly, if I was a betting woman my money would be on him. From what Shin said, he was more forceful and combative than the other two. Defiant, quite the handful. He wouldn't go down without a fight,"

Sakura finished scribbling her notes and put her pen down. "If they're alive, they'd now be in their mid to late twenties. I'll be honest, Genkai. This isn't much for me to work with," she said slowly. "But if I know you, I'm sure you've already allowed for that. So what's the plan?"

Genkai smiled again. "Exactly right, Missy. The plan is for you to go to Spirit World and look at the archives. If Master Shin kept any notes on his students, they should be in there,"

"Of course!" Sakura gasped. "Kurama, it makes total sense. There should be further information that can help me work out who might have lived. There might even be photographs or items that can help me form a connection and track the student down,"

"If they're even alive," Kurama reminded her gently. "Remember, we have no way of knowing for sure,"

Sakura stood up. "Kurama, I know that!" she said fiercely. "But if I don't pursue this, Master Shin's soul can't rest,"

Kurama stroked her hair. "Yes, Kura," he murmured. "I just want you to be prepared, that's all,"

"Enough with the lover's quarrel," Genkai sighed. "Sakura, do you know how to convert your body into a spiritual state in order to make the trip?"

Sakura blinked. "What do you mean?"

"Your physical body can't go to Spirit World as it is," Kurama explained. "How did you get to Spirit World to take your lessons?"

"Oh!" Sakura understood. "Well, Botan always took me on her oar. I never really thought about it, but she did mention that it was the easiest way for me to travel there. I guess we just didn't have the conversation,"

Genkai nodded. "Makes sense to me. Botan's oar must be able to perform the conversion. But I'm guessing that you already know the process, Kurama?"

"Yes, Master Genkai. I can do it at will,"

"Well, that's one less thing to worry about," Genkai chuckled. "Come on, Missy. Let's get to work. This will probably take a few hours for you to get the hang of it, but it's definitely a skill worth learning,"

Sakura grinned.

Row upon row of books, tapes and files. The very sight was overwhelming. Scarface peeked around the corner and spotted the section Sensui had directed him to. Both guards had their back to him.

Only two guards. It's simple. All I have to do is take them out, and get the records Mr Sensui needs.

He looked at the target with determination. His energy was suppressed, his presence concealed, and he was more than capable of taking down anyone in his path. He wouldn't hesitate.

If I do this, I'll be able to reclaim my identity. Then I'm one step closer to getting answers from Sakura Urameshi.

Scarface prepared himself, and pounced.

Much to Genkai's delight and Kurama's pride, Sakura spent the next few hours practicing the meditative state required to awaken her spiritual self. Before long, she was able to do it almost as quickly as Kurama.

"Why couldn't you have been the one to succeed me, Missy?" Genkai sighed. "Alright, you two better get moving. Koenma should be waiting for you to arrive. Knowing him, he's already got the files ready,"

Sakura squeezed Kurama's hand. "I'm ready if you are," she smiled.

Kurama smiled back. "I'll be waiting at the Gate of Decision when you arrive," he teased lightly.

She stuck out her tongue. "Just go already,"

Once Kurama had gone, Sakura gave Genkai a long look. "Do your best, Kura," the old woman advised, and Sakura gave a nod indicating that she understood.

Time to go.

With a deep breath, she shut her eyes and travelled to the Spirit World. True to his word, Kurama was waiting patiently for her arrival. Without a word, she slipped her hand into his and they entered the gates towards Koenma's office.

Kura, don't leave my side.

Kurama's face didn't betray how he really felt, but Sakura knew.

The toddler was sitting at his desk, looking worried. "Ah, Sakura. You've arrived," he stammered. "Genkai said she'd tell you what you need to know,"

"She did," Kurama answered. "Do you have the necessary files?"

Koenma pressed his fingertips together. "Well… about that," he said nervously. "The thing is, I went to retrieve them from Archives, but there was a problem,"

"What do you mean?" Sakura knew she wasn't going to like the answer at all.

Koenma sighed. "Someone broke into Records a few hours ago. We're still trying to figure it out for sure, but it seems Master Shinsuke's files were stolen,"

"Stolen?" Sakura gasped. "What happened?!"

Koenma shook his head. "We don't know anything. Whoever it was, they were skilled. In and out in a matter of minutes,"

Kurama frowned. "Koenma, surely there were witnesses in the archives, especially concerning Master Shinsuke's records. Did they tell you anything?"

"The guards were knocked out from behind," Koenma admitted miserably. "They didn't see or hear the criminal. There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever. It's truly unprecedented,"

Sakura slapped her hands over her mouth. She didn't even comprehend the following exchange between Kurama and Koenma about the alleged theft. If the files were gone, then what?

Unless…

"Koenma," Sakura hardly dared ask, but the words slipped out. "If Master Shin's soul is still in the Spirit World…can I see him? Talk to him, maybe?"

The toddler shook his head sadly. "I'm afraid not, Sakura. He's refused to move forward, and as such, his soul is in an extremely precarious position. Even if you could enter that realm, it would likely shatter what remains and he'd cease to exist at all. I'm sorry, but it just isn't possible,"

"Ok," Sakura swallowed her pain. Koenma and Kurama exchanged a look, but before either of them could answer, a security ogre came in rather sheepishly.

"Sir, it seems in the panic we made a mistake," the ogre mumbled. He was holding a file, and the short straw he'd apparently drawn. Sakura had a fleeting image of Jorge celebrating somewhere with the longer straw, and she suppressed a laugh that only Kurama noticed.

"Oh, is that right?" Koenma glared. "Do tell, ogre,"

The file was placed on the desk. "Here's Master Shin's paperwork. It wasn't stolen, just misplaced. The file next to it was the one taken. An entirely unimportant file on demon activity from last century,"

Koenma picked up the envelope. "Hmm. No great loss, I suppose. But who would want such a useless file?"

Sakura reached for the records. "May I… may I look?"

"Just a moment, Sakura," Koenma said rather gently. "I need to make sure of something first,"

Kurama slipped his arm around Sakura's fragile shoulders.

It'll be alright, my love. No matter what you see in these files, it'll be alright.

"Oh, Sakura…" Koenma looked crestfallen. "It seems my suspicions were correct. There's only one record here, and I'm afraid it won't help you solve this mystery,"

Sakura looked stricken, and Kurama stepped up. "What do you mean, Koenma?"

"As I thought, it seems we merely have the master list of the students killed by Toguro. Just their names and ages, nothing more,"

"That's impossible!" Sakura cried. "There's no way that can be true!"

"I'm afraid so," Koenma handed the paper over. "See for yourself,"

Sakura snatched up the paper and stared at it in disbelief. Koenma was right. Just a list of sixteen names, ages written beside them in neat handwriting. Most were crossed out, but the Golden Trio were circled. There was nothing else in the folder.

Sakura's vision blurred with tears. This just couldn't be right. Two steps forward, and an impenetrable brick wall blocked the way.

"Kura…" Kurama wrapped his arms around her. "I'm sorry, my love. But we knew this could happen,"

"No," Sakura shook her head firmly. "It doesn't make sense. I don't believe this. There has to be something…"

The lightbulb switched on. "His garden. Take me back there!"

"His garden?" Koenma raised an eyebrow. "What for? We already searched it from top to bottom when he died. There's nothing there except his plants,"

Sakura shrugged. "I can't explain it. I just feel like I need to go there one more time. To say goodbye properly, if nothing else,"

Koenma looked more than a little skeptical, but Kurama held up a hand. "Just let her, Koenma. What's the harm?"

He knew there was no dissuading Sakura. She wouldn't be satisfied until every stone was unturned.

"Oh… very well. Ogre!"

Jorge sidled in. "You called, sir?"

Sakura was tight-lipped during the journey to her Master's quarters. Not even Kurama could get a word out of her, and she entered the chamber alone, shutting the door behind her.

She looked around. It was exactly as it had always been, but with one terrible difference.

Finally, in total privacy, Sakura broke down in silent tears. She let them fall without restraint, collapsing to her knees in the soft grass.

Nobody was there to judge, nobody was there to try and soothe her grief. Here, in the garden she could farewell her beloved teacher properly, with the beautiful plants, and gentle waterfalls.

Something nudged her hand. Sakura looked up and wiped her streaming eyes. The vines, the flowers, all the plants were there, and seemed to be mourning with her. It was like they'd been waiting for her to arrive.

"Hey there," Sakura smiled through her tears. "You miss him too, don't you?"

The vines curled around her hands, as if to comfort her. But then, the plants started tugging her forward.

"What's going on?"

Of course, there was no verbal response, but they tugged harder. More urgently.

Sakura stood up. "Are you trying to tell me something?"

More tugging. Sakura took a step in that direction, which seemed to please the vines. The greenery parted, and Sakura was drawn further into the garden, in a part of the room she'd never explored. Amazingly, she wasn't afraid. She knew wherever the plants were leading her, it was important.

Finally, Sakura arrived at the foot of a waterfall. The plants ushered her to sit down on the ground. The vine around her right hand uncoiled, and withdrew to the shadows.

Sakura waited. "I'm sorry that I couldn't save him," she breathed. "I really am,"

The sentient daisies and violets waved gently, brushing against her cheek. The vine around her left hand gave it a small squeeze.

It's OK. They seemed to be saying. We don't blame you.

"Do you know why I'm here? Do you have something that can help me in my search?"

In reply, the plants parted again, and the vine reappeared, carrying something. Sakura watched with wide eyes. The vine pressed the mysterious object into her arms. It was a bundle, wrapped in leaves and twine.

"Oh!" Sakura gasped. "I… thank you!"

The plants curled around her affectionately. It was the only way they could communicate their appreciation and hopes to her.

Coming here was the right decision.

Sakura clutched the bundle to her chest. "Whatever this is, I'll take care of it," she promised in a trembling voice. "You have my word,"

She stood up and looked around. The plants created a path to the exit. It was time for her to go.

"I'll come back," she whispered, and ran to the door where Kurama and Jorge waited.

Kurama didn't expect to see Sakura come out of the chamber with such a huge smile, much less a package in her hands.

"Kurama, Jorge, look!" she thrust what she was holding into their faces.

Kurama took a step back. "Kura, what's that?"

"The plants gave it to me!" Sakura said excitedly. "I'm sure there's something important here. We have to get back to Koenma right now!"

Without pausing for a second, Sakura turned around and took off at a run. She burst into Koenma's office, causing the toddler to jump in surprise.

"Sakura! What's the matter? Tell me!"

Breathlessly, Sakura placed the bundle on his desk. "Look what I found!"

Koenma stared at it. "What in the world is this?"

"The plants… the ones in Master Shin's garden, they gave it to me. So it must be useful!"

"Hold on," Koenma glanced behind her. Kurama and Jorge had just arrived, and they looked as confused as he felt.

Sakura held up the package. "The plants in the garden. They're alive, right? They gave this to me. Why would they do that if it's not important?"

"Miss Sakura, what are you talking about?" Jorge squeaked. He looked almost afraid. "There was nothing there when we looked,"

Koenma gasped. "Of course, that makes sense! Nobody ever went into that chamber except Shin, and Sakura. The plants must've recognised your ki signal. No wonder we couldn't get hold of it,"

"Open it," Kurama said suddenly. "Master Shin must've hidden it for a reason. I suspect he planned for this, just in case,"

Sakura tore open the leaves and twine. Inside the bundle was a thin, leather-bound diary. She picked it up and opened the front cover.

"What is it?" Koenma jumped onto his desk to see.

"It's some kind of diary," Sakura muttered. "Notes on his Golden Trio. It seems he was weighing up the possibilities on who could've survived, and more importantly, how,"

Everyone crowded around Sakura, and she read out loud.

"It pains me to say, but in my heart I know the chances of Sora surviving are practically non-existent. She was no fighter, and her terror would have been paralysing. Elder Toguro would have considered that a feast. I don't even want to think of the fear she must have felt in her final moments. I can only hope it didn't last long, but I shall never know. Poor girl. She was always too tender for this world. There was so much more I wanted to teach her in the art of telekinesis, but it is not to be. Forgive me, child. I never wanted this to happen. I pray that you are now surrounded by the animals you loved so dearly,"

Sakura lowered the book. It was so awful. Kurama gently took it from her. "Shall I read the next one, love?" he asked tenderly.

Sakura nodded, and Kurama began.

"As for Haruki, I cannot be sure. He may have been only five, but that child was certainly determined. Behind that naivety lay a fiercely protective nature. And how quickly he formed attachments! I have never seen anything quite like it. Though rather quiet, his potential was great. If he survived, I hope he found a way to hone it. Though quite honestly, given his age, the probability is unlikely. Still, knowing that drive he possessed, I will never dismiss the chance entirely,"

Kurama turned the page, and something fell out.

"Finally, there is Kenji, and I believe it is most likely that he lived. Of the sixteen students, he was not only the oldest, but the only one with any significant combat training. He would've fought to the very end, no question. Toguro would've been impressed by that, I am sure,"

Sakura bent to retrieve the paper that had fallen from between the pages. Everyone else was listening intently to Kurama's recitation.

"But my dearest students, I can never apologise enough for failing to protect you. Despite the years, the pain stays fresh. Had I been there, I would have gladly given my life to save yours. Every night, I dream of your faces, then wake to find the nightmare is all too real. Until I go down in my grave, I will spend the rest of my life trying to make amends. But since Sakura Urameshi appeared, the grief has lessened slightly. Perhaps she can succeed where I failed. Maybe she will be the key to my redemption,"

Kurama stopped reading and closed the book. "Such a tortured soul,"

"Indeed," Koenma looked sadder than ever. "But I suppose we can take some solace that he felt joy in teaching Sakura, right?"

"Kurama," Sakura's voice sounded as tight as a guitar string.

Kurama turned around. "Kura?"

She'd gone chalk-white, and looked horrified. "I know who the missing student is," Sakura stammered. "And it's already too late,"

The old photograph slipped from Sakura's shaking hands. Her legs gave way beneath her and she sank to the ground with a soft moan.

Kurama was at her side in a flash. "Kura, what's wrong? Talk to me!"

"The photo," she murmured. "It's… it's him,"

Kurama reached over and picked up the photograph that Sakura had dropped.

It was an image of Master Shin with three young children, his Golden Trio. A blonde girl who could only be Sora. A tall boy in a martial arts gi with a mischievous smile. That had to be Kenji.

But the third boy looked familiar. Those piercing blue eyes, that scruffy brown hair

Kurama's eyes widened. "Impossible!"

The photo might have been taken two decades ago, but there was no mistaking who that child was.

"Sakyo's bodyguard," Sakura buried her head in Kurama's chest. "Scarface. He's…"

It took a few moments for Scarface to adjust his eyes. Sensui had led him deep inside the cave complex. They'd arrived at the lake, and Itsuki was ready to begin.

"See, Mr Sensui? Nobody will ever find the epicenter of the tunnel until it's too late,"

Sensui smiled. "It's perfect, Itsuki. We've waited quite long enough. Now…"

He turned to Scarface. "You have the records?"

Scarface nodded. "You were right, Mr Sensui. I followed your instructions to the letter. Those contingency plans will certainly throw them all off the scent,"

"That's right," Sensui's smile widened. "By taking an unimportant file along with the select records from the old man's archive, they'll consider it little more than a harmless prank. And as for Miss Urameshi, the one paper you left behind will be of no use to her. Now, do you have the Dark Tournament tapes?"

Scarface nodded again and handed them over. "They were still in the copying process when I took them. Nobody will even notice they're missing,"

"You've done well, my boy. I'm impressed," Sensui took the tapes, but noticed the one Scarface was clutching inside his coat.

"Oh, you seem to have forgotten to give me the tape containing Sakura's fights,"

Scarface looked down. "I was hoping I could keep this one, sir," he muttered. "Perhaps by studying it more closely, I can learn more about the girl. It will be helpful, when the time comes,"

Sensui looked the boy up and down. "Alright then, Hisuru. You may keep it, provided that I can peruse it when asked,"

"Yes sir. But now… will you answer my questions, as you promised?"

Sensui took a few steps towards the fire burning at the water's edge.

"One step at a time. First, take the records, and throw them in the fire. Burn your shame along with your past,"

Scarface swallowed, and obeyed. He watched the flames destroy all traces of his identity.

"Doesn't that feel better?" Sensui asked. "It's gone. You can leave it behind. We'll create the world Sakyo dreamed of, my boy. You will be a driving force to realising what must happen. The end of humanity,"

Scarface's eyes were alive with a new resolve. A new purpose. "But how, Mr Sensui? I don't think I'm strong enough yet!"

"That's why I've brought you here, my boy. Too long you've been in the shadows. Too long you've been forced to hide your true abilities. While Itsuki works on the tunnel, we will hone your powers that have laid dormant, and turn you into what you were always destined to become had it not been for those vile humans. You do want to make them pay, don't you? For everything they did to you?"

Scarface set his jaw. "More than anyone could ever know. I will no longer be that frightened child, forbidden from saying his real name,"

"Yes," Sensui smirked. "Hisuru, the name given to you by your human captors. But now, you are free from those shackles. Free to take your revenge. Unless you reclaim your true title, you can't hope to get answers from that girl. Say it, your real name. Now,"

"My name…" Scarface closed his eyes. "Is Haruki,"

Sensui and Itsuki exchanged a conspiratorial look. This was going better than they imagined.

"Now, we can truly begin," Sensui placed a hand on Haruki's shoulder. "And we'll start with your enlightenment. That can only come through a certain film. The one known as Chapter Black,"

A.N. Well, that was a lot, but things are moving. Sakura's finally worked out who Scarface really is, but doesn't know he's still alive and working with Sensui.

What did you think? Did you like this chapter? What do you think will happen next? It's only chapter 2, and there's a long way to go yet.

Chapter 3 will be released by July 14th, but I'll try to post it sooner. Especially since I'm stuck in lockdown with not a lot of options. At least my dog is happy.

Please make sure you follow, favourite, and PLEASE take a minute to leave a review!

Next Chapter: With only a few days left before school starts again, Kurama is determined to make Sakura smile.