A.N. Hey guys. I tried to post this a day early, but it didn't end up happening for the simple reason that I was feeling VERY burnt out this week and had a lot of trouble writing this chapter. And I'm really, REALLY sorry about that. The next one won't have those issues, cross my heart.

Ghost of Magic: You're not wrong, but Haruki's ideas are far more twisted than her being a demon. My money would be on Atsuko's family as well.

hw0134160: The suspense is taken up a notch here. You're right, Haruki is not entirely wrong in his judgements, but his fixation is definitely disturbing, and like I said to Ghost of Magic his suspicions go beyond her being an apparition. You'll find out whether Sakura gets stung in this chapter, but the hospital fight is going to take a few twists.

Yeah, the vaccine side effects weren't what I would call fun, but if that's the trade-off for not dying from Covid then I'll gladly take a couple of days on the lounge watching anime. I'm so grateful for you all. I was seriously struggling to get this chapter finished, but knowing you're all waiting with baited breath made sure I got my act together. Hope you enjoy it.

Starrat: So glad to have you on board!

DCD Gojira: :D

Sarah: Yes, Australia is not in a good way. Normally I don't get political but long story short, the powers that be didn't order enough vaccines for the country, completely screwed up the distribution of the few we DID have, and then wondered why the Delta variant got out of control. They also didn't lock down hard or fast enough, but either way that's the situation we're in. I'm a major introvert, but even I have my limits.

I'm really glad you enjoy the calmer slice-of-life moments in between the action and the character moments with Sakura. I worked so hard on how to weave her into the story. It's important to let everyone breathe, including the characters. Yes, Haruki's obsession with Sakura is incredibly worrying, but it's an important part of the story and he's truly a gift of a character from a writer's point of view. Hopefully when we get to the end of the line you'll feel the same way. I promise it's going to be explosive. And I'll always respond to reviews. I just want you all to know how much I appreciate you all.

Lady Amazon: NightWolfRUNNER came up with another ship name for them. It's Sakurama. Yes, I have seen the recent OVA along with Eizou Hakusho. It's all going to be included, and in the case of Eizou, some of it already has!

Hina714: Yep, and sadly they aren't going to stop. Haruki's a complicated character. Even I have mixed feelings about him, but I'm so glad he shared his story with me. Sensui is arguably my favourite YYH villain because of how devious he is, and the scale of his plan is just mind-blowing.

Interesting that you mention the Game Master. I've known for a long time how that's going to go, and I think you'll be surprised at how it plays out with Sakura.

Sakura-chan: Kurama's very attuned to his flower's needs. And interesting theory. I won't say anymore, but keep reading to find out if you're right.

Wolfs child: Enjoy!

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 12

They were everywhere. From the second they all stepped out of the train station, Sakura could see the swarms of demon insects infesting Mushiyori City. The very atmosphere was pulsing with demon energy. It was strong enough to knock an unsuspecting person off their feet.

Yusuke couldn't hide his astonishment at the sight of what they were walking into. "How can everybody be so calm with all these bugs everywhere?"

"Ordinary people can't see them," Kido explained.

"Sounds about right. It was the same with a previous case we worked on," Sakura muttered.

Genkai gave them a side-eye look. "Let's keep the chatter to a minimum. As you can see, we don't have any time to waste here. Kurama, you know what to do,"

Kurama nodded. "Be careful, everyone,"

With a final squeeze of Sakura's hand, he left with Kaito, Botan and Kuwabara. They were heading to the alleged centrepoint of the tunnel. Genkai, Kido, Yana and the twins would be combing the rest of the city in search of any suspicious activity.

Sakura took a breath. She didn't like the idea of splitting their team up, but it was probably the best way to scour the joint. Still…

Kurama, you have to come back to me.

His reply was swift and loving. Always, my hana.

Kura? Yusuke nudged her. Can you hear me, with all this energy in the city?

Sakura nodded. "As long as everyone stays close, I shouldn't have a problem,"

Yusuke looked around warily. Don't leave my side, ok?

Trust me, I have no interest in being alone in this hive. Sakura shuddered at the thought.

"Let's move," Genkai said darkly, and the teens followed her down the street.

Anyone with the slightest spirit awareness would know that something deadly was invading this town, but it wasn't just the insects that were unnerving to Sakura. The red sky above reminded her of the one she'd seen in her dreams. It had appeared alongside the shadowy figure who knew her name.

A coincidence, or something more?

Sensui was the first to exit the cave, with the three he'd chosen to accompany him following closely behind. Haruki blinked as the sunlight hit his face. Things were about to change for him. He could feel it.

"Sniper, Ghost," Sensui looked back at them with a smirk. "Sea Man,"

"What do you require of me, Sir?" Haruki asked eagerly. He was craving to do something, anything…

Sensui smiled. "It's imperative that we only refer to each other by our code names from here. Is that understood?"

The three young men nodded collectively.

"Good," Sensui turned to the youngest boy. "Sea Man, you'll be in charge of shadowing, as discussed. Keep your distance and don't engage. Meet us at the rendezvous point if they suspect anything,"

"Yes, Mr Sensui. I'm on it," The young teen pulled his hood up over his head and with a small bow, he ran off.

Haruki looked after him almost longingly, as if there was something he desperately wanted to do or say but was teetering on the edge.

"What is it, my boy?" Sensui already seemed to know the answer.

Haruki lowered his eyes. "Perhaps it would be better for me to accompany him…"

Sensui immediately shook his head. "No, Sea Man can handle it. I have greater need for you,"

"But sir…with my new abilities, I could easily track down the Spirit Detective -"

"You can, and you will when the time is right," Sensui looked Haruki dead in the eye. "But until then, remember what I said: if you want answers from the girl, you'll play it like I tell you,"

Haruki hung his head slightly. "Yes, sir. I remember,"

He trudged along behind Sensui and Sniper, but allowed his mind to drift. After nearly three months, he was actually going to see her again. And soon, she'd stand before him, revealing everything without restraint. Sensui had promised him she would, and he trusted his new master.

It won't be long, Sakura. When you all come to find us, I'll learn your secrets. You'll tell me. I'll make sure of it.

Haruki could just picture that sweet moment, and the thought was mouth-watering. Soon, it would become reality.

Kuwabara blinked at the sight and looked at Kurama for answers. "This is dumb. It's just a field. Are you sure this is the centre of that distortion thing?"

"I don't see any big tunnel," Botan squinted.

Kuwabara rolled his eyes. "Then unless he's invisible or he looks like grass, the psychic's not here either,"

"No, a distortion zone always takes the form of a circle around its creator," Kurama said quietly. "Right now we're standing on the circle's centre. The psychic has to be here. We just have to think; if the man's not here on the surface…"

Kaito adjusted his glasses and gazed at the ground. "...Then obviously, he must be below it,"

"Underground?" Kuwabara gasped. Everyone stared at the ground. It was the only explanation, but the concept was still hard to fathom. Could all this chaos be caused by a threat from below?

Suddenly, Kurama's attention spiked. He whirled around and began running. Something, or someone, was watching them.

"Hey, what's up?" Kuwabara called after him.

Kurama didn't reply. He rounded the corner of the nearby storage shed…only to find nothing. But that was far from comforting. Kurama was absolutely positive he'd felt a presence there.

"Did you see something?" Kuwabara and the others had finally caught up.

Kurama's well-practised eyes kept scanning the area. "The question is, what saw us?"

"You mean someone was watching us?" Botan squeaked.

Kaito frowned. "So they already know we're looking for them…"

"You sure you're not being jumpy?" Kuwabara asked nervously. "I didn't notice anything,"

"Well, what on earth does that prove?" Botan snorted. "You've lost your spirit awareness,"

Kuwabara ground his teeth together. "You just LOVE bringing that up, don't you?" he snapped. "I'm gonna get it back!"

Kurama looked around one last time. "In any case, we should play it safe, and reconvene with Yusuke's group immediately,"

If the psychics knew of their presence, it was likely that Yusuke would be their first target, and Kurama knew better than anyone that Sakura would fight tooth and nail for her twin. And Genkai was far weaker these days without her orb.

Though he trusted Yusuke and the others, it didn't matter. Kurama needed to return to his flower. He had to know she was safe.

Hidden from view in the long grass, Sensui's spy watched the group walk away.

"So, what do you think of our hometown, Yusuke?" Kido nudged the Spirit Detective.

"Great, but it's hard to get past the bug filth," Yusuke replied.

Sakura swatted an insect that was buzzing a little too close for comfort. "Would I be right in assuming that this is usually a rather placid city, guys?"

"If you mean boring, then yes," Kido nodded. "There's never anything fun to do,"

Yusuke laughed. "I can relate,"

"I've wanted to move out for ages," Kido admitted while kicking a pebble aside. "But now…it's strange. I feel driven to defend it. It infuriates me that someone's lurking, sneering at us from the shadows,"

"They won't be once I'm finished with them," Yusuke stuck his hands in his pockets. "I just hope the team at the hole is ok… that's the enemy's base, right?"

Genkai barely turned around. "Kurama's leading them, so I'm not worried,"

Yusuke scowled. "Because he's smart, I get it!"

"Figures that whoever's behind this would choose somewhere like this as their base," Sakura muttered. She didn't want to think about Kurama and the others. It would probably just make her panic.

Yana gave Sakura a quizzical look. "Why?"

"Keep things on the down-low as long as possible," Sakura explained. "When we've worked on a big case before, it's usually been around Tokyo. The first demon we fought was consuming the souls of children, so he stuck to a highly populated area and that's how we were able to track him down so quickly,"

Yana looked thoroughly disturbed. "Holy hell…"

"It wasn't fun," Sakura admitted. "But after our other… escapades, and especially the Dark Tournament, it's likely the tunnel's creator knows Yusuke's reputation, and chose Mushiyori since it's a decent distance from where we live in Tokyo. He probably figured we wouldn't notice anything until it was too late,"

Kido hesitated. "Hey, Sakura? What's it like, facing down demons?"

Yusuke immediately shot him a warning look. "She doesn't like to talk about it, Kido,"

"No, it's ok," Sakura forced a smile. "I haven't faced nearly as many as Yusuke, but I can definitely say it's not an experience I'd wish on many people,"

"We can talk about this later!" Genkai snapped over her shoulder. "Keep your eyes open,"

Kido flushed slightly. "Sorry, Master Genkai,"

Hey, Kido? Yana? Sakura kept scanning the area while she spoke to them through the background interference. If we're going to work together, you guys have to start calling me Kura.

Oh… ok. Kido sounded surprised. I thought you'd still be mad about yesterday.

Sakura almost laughed out loud. Of course not! You were just helping Genkai out. No hard feelings, I promise.

Yana seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. I'm… glad to hear that.

Suddenly, everyone stopped walking. The world flashed in ultraviolet light for a split second, and became a few degrees colder. Sakura instantly went on high alert, as did the others.

"You sense that?" Genkai asked the group at large.

They'd walked into something. The surrounding area felt almost identical to that in Kaito's territory the night before.

Yusuke stepped closer to his sister. "Let me guess, we just walked into someone's territory?"

"That same feeling," Kido said to Yana. "Must be from someone who's developed a power, just like us,"

Sakura turned to her left. "Look, Yusuke," she said softly. "I think the source is down there,"

"Well, gentlemen. Ladies. These stairs look happy enough," Yusuke stared at the dark stairwell that his twin pointed out. According to the sign, it led to an underground Mahjong Club called the Stacked Deck.

"You remember your lesson, Yusuke?" Genkai asked pointedly.

"Don't worry, I won't screw up," he insisted, and led the way downstairs.

Sakura kept behind her brother. Yana and Kido had never fought such threats before, and Genkai's spirit energy was far more limited these days. If anything happened, Sakura wanted to be able to react quickly.

The owner and hostess greeted them warmly as they entered and looked around. The Stacked Deck was fairly small, and relatively empty.

Three school boys were chattering away in the corner. A fourth patron was sitting with his back to them.

None of the boys looked back at Sakura, but she could hear all their thoughts while they scanned the area.

Which one? Yana's eyes swept over the suspects.

Kido did a quick headcount. Two, three, six possibles. Plus the kitchen staff.

Needle in a haystack. Yusuke sounded frustrated. Or hell, maybe they're all needles. Kura, do you have any idea who it might be?

Sakura moved forward as subtly as she could. The interference is making it difficult to pinpoint. But I'll see…

Suddenly, the man with his back to them began to laugh softly. "If you guys want something from me, just ask,"

Sakura's attention spiked. "Come again?"

The man stood up and confronted them all directly. He was tall and well-built with an arrogant face.

"You must be some more power freaks," he purred.

Yusuke immediately stepped in front of his sister.

Stay back, Squirt. This guy must be the psychic we felt outside.

The owner timidly spoke up. "Hey, uh… no trouble here, alright? I've got mouths to feed!"

"Easy, old man," the stranger said while never taking his eyes off the group. "I don't want trouble either. And yes, I know you don't have insurance on this place,"

Yusuke looked back at the stranger. "We're looking for the tunnel digging type," he said carefully. "So you want to help us out or not?"

"Tunnel?" the man repeated. A second later, sly realisation flashed across his face. "You must mean the one to Demon World,"

The boys gasped. "How'd you know?!" Kido demanded.

"Don't sound so accusing," the man snickered. "You're the one who told me. It's been running through your mind,"

Sakura clenched her teeth. Is that right? Well, my mind will be a different story.

"That must be the power he's got," Yana whispered to Yusuke. "I think he's a mind-reader,"

Yusuke paused. "Let's not jump the gun yet. He might've known about the demons already and now he's just trying to play us. He could be one of the real bad jerks we're looking for," He looked sideways at Sakura. "You reckon you can test this one?"

"No," Kido stepped forward. "Leave it to me,"

"Be careful," Yusuke warned.

Sakura put a hand on Kido's shoulder. "Are you sure?"

Kido nodded. Nobody outside us knows my power. If he's a real mind-reader, he won't let me trap him by stomping on his shadow.

Kido made sure to emphasise the last four words, and this made Sakura back off. It was a good plan.

"You want to get beaten up?" The man smirked at Kido, clearly itching for a fight. "Just come on over,"

His overconfidence was beginning to irritate Sakura, and Kido seemed to have little patience for it as well.

"I have to play it rough now," Kido said seriously. "There's way too much at stake,"

Another moment of ultraviolet light, the temperature went down again.

Yana flinched. "He's opening up his territory,"

Kido didn't waste even a moment. He charged at the man head on, fists out and ready to step on his shadow.

A second before Kido could paralyse his opponent, the man took a small, almost dainty step backwards. Kido stumbled in visible shock, but Yusuke shouted a warning.

"Heads up!"

The strange man took immediate advantage of Kido's vulnerability and uppercut him in the torso, followed by a hook to the jaw and a merciless battering. A final hit sent the teen sprawling on the floor with blood coming out of his mouth.

Yana and Sakura ran to him. "Are you ok?"

"You almost got me, kiddo," the man laughed. "My shadow was right there,"

Kido looked up at the others. "He knew. He really did read my mind,"

"Looks like I'm in good company," Sakura glared at the psychic, who gave her a strange look. It didn't take her long to figure out why.

You won't be reading my mind so easily, whoever you are. I had a good teacher.

The students in the corner had obviously been spooked by the commotion, and were making a beeline for the door.

"Ok… I'll just leave my money here!" one called.

They swept past the group without making eye contact. The owner made a surreptitious attempt to pick up the phone and start dialling, but the psychic looked at him sharply.

"Don't call the police just yet!" he warned, making the owner slam the receiver down.

"No, no, I wouldn't dream of it!" he spluttered.

The psychic raised his fists again. "So, anyone else game? I could use the practice for my future," he grinned while looking at all of them in turn. "See, I've already got a use for this talent I've developed. I'm going to be a boxer. And since I'll know what my opponent's thinking, I'll win every time and rake in the candy,"

"That actually helped," Genkai muttered. "We know he's a real mind-reader,"

Sakura got to her feet, but Yusuke shot out a hand to stop her getting any closer. "Kudos for Kido, but we still don't know what side he's on,"

With a warning look at Sakura, Yusuke approached the man and indicated Yana. "That guy over there with the seriously weird hair day? He's got a power called Copy. Let him touch your skull, and he can mimic everything including your memories. Kind of like running a credit check on you. If it turns out you're ok, we'll let you fight with us to save the world,"

"Let him copy my brain, huh?" the man snorted.

Yusuke nodded and pointed to Sakura. "It's the only way to check. My sister's a telepath too, she could probably give you some pointers,"

Sakura didn't say a word at this offer. She stared at the wannabe boxer with intense suspicion, and he stared right back at her with a grin.

"So, you're like me?" the mind-reader looked Sakura up and down. "That explains a few things, I'd say. Sorry, cowboy. I don't have any heroic aspirations," He laughed while shifting from foot to foot in preparation. "I'm much more interested in starting my fighting career,"

Yusuke didn't back down. Instead, he started to remove his jacket.

"I hear you, you have your own needs. How about I kick your ass first?"

Sakura's heart skipped a beat. Yusuke, he's a mind-reader. Let me handle him, I -

Relax, Kura. I got this.

Something about the cool expression on her brother's face made Sakura pause. He wasn't worried at all.

He must have a strategy… ok, bro. I trust you.

"Uh, Master Genkai?" Yana asked warily. "Isn't this what you warned him not to do?"

Genkai was unfazed. "Don't you worry," she said calmly. He may look like a dimwit, in fact he definitely is, but he's also the Dark Tournament champ, and he can fight like a genius once he knows his prey,"

Sakura watched, knowing that Yusuke had taken down Toguro and the Netherworld. But the difference? None of his previous opponents had been able to read his thoughts. Except for Sakura herself, of course. But Yusuke had always won in their early training sessions thanks to her lack of training and experience.

"Come on, try what you want," the psychic taunted. "You won't hit me,"

Yusuke tossed his jacket aside. "Look, I'll tell you what. The only way I'll hit you is with a straight right jab. But chances are I'll stop short,"

"We'll see about that," the man replied, narrowing his eyes. He was obviously reading Yusuke's mind at that moment. Sakura couldn't resist. She had to check as well.

I'll throw a straight right jab at him, but I'll stop short just before I hit his face...I'll throw a straight right jab at him, but I'll stop short just before I hit his face...I'll throw a straight right jab at him, but I'll stop short just before I hit his face.

Nothing else was going through his mind. Sakura held her breath and waited for the results.

"Here goes," Yusuke launched himself towards the psychic, fist out. The psychic stood his ground and didn't move. True to his word, Yusuke stopped mere centimetres from the man's face. There was a micropause, and blood flowed. The mind-reader was propelled backwards. He slammed hard against the wall and slid to the ground, unconscious.

Sakura smiled. She and Genkai knew exactly what had happened, but Kido and Yana were visibly stunned.

"What happened?!"

"I didn't see any contact!"

Genkai didn't even flinch. "That was thirty percent of his power," she said matter-of-factly.

Yusuke shrugged. "Can't say I didn't warn the guy. Except for that whole shockwave thing," he flashed a smile at Sakura and turned to Yana. "Ok, it's your turn,"

Yana sauntered forward and casually laid a hand on the mind-reader's head. They both began to glow a golden colour, and Yana morphed before their eyes.

"He doesn't know anything," Yana confirmed in the man's slightly gravelly voice. "His name's Murota. Just a guy like us,"

Sakura finally relaxed. "Well, that's one suspect crossed off the list,"

"Let's wake him," Genkai said wisely. "He could still be of some use to us,"

Yusuke gently socked Sakura's arm. "Kura, reckon you can get inside his head too? Doesn't seem like interference is a problem for him,"

"When he wakes up, maybe," Sakura eyed Murota carefully. "Hard to establish a connection with someone who's unconscious,"

Meanwhile, the bewildered kitchen staff were absolutely gobsmacked.

"Is it cool if I take the rest of the day off, boss?" the hostess asked weakly. "I think I'm losing my mind,"

The owner looked like he'd recently taken a cannonball to the head. "Nightmare… just a nightmare…"

In Spirit World, Koenma watched the drama unfold with a very serious expression. His blue ogre, however, was in a jovial mood.

"My life's improving, sir!" Jorge sang. "All these humans with different special powers, Yusuke's kicking so much tail, and I'm the only one here you've called by name!"

"Koenma," The image on the screen instantly changed to Kurama, thanks to the briefcase filled with gadgets that Botan had brought along.

Koenma sat up a little straighter. "Yes, Kurama. Report!"

"The centrepoint was barren," Kurama said with a hard expression. "But I think it may be possible they've encamped underground,"

Koenma's brow creased. "Hmmm. Very clever,"

"That's not all," Kurama continued. "It appears we're being followed,"

"What?" Koenma squawked.

"I'm not sure, but I'm rejoining the teams, just to be safe," Kurama replied.

The toddler nodded. "Understood,"

Kurama cut the feed and Koenma turned to the girl beside his desk. "Ayame, I want a depth analysis on that centrepoint. Sewers, caves, everything,"

Ayame bowed. "Of course sir,"

She left the room and Jorge stared after her, crestfallen. "Her name… and for a moment there you made me feel special…"

Koenma ignored him. He leaned back in his chair. This really was getting worse by the minute. If Kurama was correct, and the one behind this was indeed underground, then everything would have to be reassessed. Not only that, the nasty hunch plaguing him might gain more traction.

And if that suspicion was the least bit true, Koenma feared everything would soon spiral out of control.

The twins and the rest of their group had moved outside to a bustling fairway. They sat on the edge of a landscaped section of the garden next to Genkai. Murota was between them, still trying to stem the flow of blood from his nose. Yana and Kido were still scanning the crowd for anything suspicious.

"So how does it work, Murota?" Yusuke asked finally. "I mean, in a crowd like this, who do you hear?"

"Every thought that's within thirty yards of me," Murota muttered. "It all comes at once, like it's one big conversation,"

He shuddered. Beads of nervous sweat were breaking out on his forehead. "The more intense the thought, the louder it sounds to me. Like it's been screamed across a crowded room. It's painful sometimes,"

"Tough luck," Yusuke snorted. "Don't be a baby about it. You don't hear Kura whining about hearing thoughts,"

Sakura groaned. "That's because mine works in a totally different way, you dolt!"

Murota's gaze came to rest on Sakura. "You're the first person whose mind is a brick wall to me," he admitted. "How does yours work?"

"I didn't get it from the tunnel, if that's what you mean," Sakura began slowly. "Apparently it was a natural ability that unlocked a little less than a year ago,"

Murota's eyes widened. "So…do you hear everything, like me?"

"No. I can only read minds that I've formed a connection with. At first it was just Yusuke since we're twins. It took a lot of training to expand my range and abilities, but I had a great teacher,"

Murota frowned. "So that's why I can't hear you?"

Sakura shrugged. "It's probably because I was taught how to open and close the connection at will. The moment we suspected you were a mind-reader, I shut it down entirely,"

"Do…do you think I could learn how to do that too?" Murota asked curiously.

"Well, maybe," Sakura bit her lip. "It's worth a try, but it would definitely take a lot of practise. And like Yusuke said, my abilities don't work as well in these territories. That's why we need your help,"

Yusuke looked over. "Enough chatter," he said with a glower at Murota. "You've got some scouting to do,"

"Check everyone's thoughts, and tell us if you hear something weird," Genkai instructed. "But don't show it on your face, and do not make eye contact with them. They have powers too. They'll sense they're in your territory, just like we did,"

"I'll try…" Murota mumbled. A second later, he bolted upright with a stunned expression.

Genkai raised an eyebrow. "What's up?"

Sakura's body tensed. Murota zeroed in on a young woman in a school uniform waiting nearby. He looked stunned.

"That girl…" His face lit up. "She's going to make out with her teacher! We've got to stop her, or WATCH!"

BAM! The twins and Genkai simultaneously clocked him over the head in a rage.

"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Sakura snapped.

Yusuke grabbed Murota by the collar. "WE'RE TRYING TO SAVE HUMANITY!"

"Hey wait a sec," Murota grinned stupidly. "You really want to kill me,"

Yusuke shook him fiercely. "DID YOU HAVE TO READ MY MIND TO FIGURE THAT ONE OUT?!"

"And I might help him!" Genkai hissed.

"No, please. I'm sorry!" Murota giggled.

Yusuke folded his arms and gave Murota a lethal stare. "Your ass parks here until you find something!"

"Yes, sir," Murota said meekly.

Sakura glanced back at the schoolgirl. She recognised the uniform from a rival campus, and made a mental note to call the school anonymously when she got home.

In the meantime, all she could do was wait, and try not to worry about the rest of their group. Even without Kuwabara's powers working, they were still well matched. Botan had the detective tools, Kaito's territory prohibited violence and Kurama was obviously well equipped to handle a threat. Still, she wouldn't be able to relax until Kurama was back with her.

Please be safe, Kurama.

In the silence, they waited.

Sensui stopped walking and turned back to the two that remained. "Ghost, Sniper. It's time,"

"Yes, sir,"

Sniper turned to go, but again Haruki hesitated. Sensui shook his head before the boy could ask to accompany him.

"You and Sniper have a job to do, Ghost. I'm counting on you to get it done,"

Haruki nodded reluctantly. "Yes sir, but Technique Zero -"

"Is not needed just yet," Sensui finished smoothly. "I've told you both what to do, Ghost. You do want to make sure everything goes off without a hitch, don't you?"

Haruki looked down again. Sensui put a hand on his shoulder. "Stay out of sight. Focus on concealing your presence,"

The boy nodded. "Yes sir,"

"Remember, the Spirit Detective and his sister still believe you to be dead. And we want to keep it that way until the time is right,"

Sakura checked her watch. Five minutes to two. They'd been sitting in silence for almost an hour, waiting for Murota to detect a possible lead.

Everyone was still looking in all directions, trying to do so inconspicuously. While surveying the left side of the area, Sakura spotted a common oriental turtle dove fossicking round in the grass. She smiled a little at the sight. Such innocence was a welcome distraction…

"So how's it coming along?" Yusuke asked somewhat impatiently. "Have you found anything yet?"

Sakura was jolted from her reverie and instantly turned back to Murota. Instead of replying, the mind-reader was in a cold sweat.

"Murota?" The twins spoke simultaneously. He was shaking all over, eyes wide with pure unadulterated terror.

"Yeah… I found something…" Murota gasped, and clutched at his head. He seemed unable to form words.

The expression on his face alarmed Sakura, and she decided it was time to take down her mind defences. Interference or not, she needed to know what was so disturbing.

Within seconds, Sakura connected to Murota's mind. There was no interference to speak of thanks to his ability, but for the first time, Sakura wished there was. A cold, cruel voice filled her head, unlike anything she'd ever heard.

I'll kill them all. Women and kids, sickly old men… until every foot of dirt is a grave… then, I'll stack them on top. I'll kill them all. I'll kill them all!

Sakura couldn't bear it any more. She pulled out of the connection with a gasp that was overpowered by Murota's cry of agony.

"Shut up or they're gonna find you!" Yusuke hissed. By now, people were starting to look over at them.

Murota stopped howling, but didn't calm down. "I'm sorry. I can't take it. The voice is too loud. But it's quiet too. Savage and dark. Please, let me go!"

Sakura grabbed Yusuke's arm. I heard it too. Whoever it was, he's…

She couldn't find the words to describe the voice. It was more evil than she could have possibly comprehended.

Yusuke nodded at Sakura's frightened eyes and glanced back at the crowd.

"Don't worry, I'll handle him," he insisted to Murota. "Just tell me who he is, and don't point,"

"He's coming from the right," Murota whispered while looking at the ground. "Tall guy. In black. His hair is slicked back…"

As one, the group looked over. Sakura's heart was pounding at the speed of sound as she searched the crowd and saw the man Murota had described. He stood a head taller than the people he walked amongst about five metres from where they sat.

He paused in front of the group, and very slowly turned his head towards them.

The group was absolutely frozen, but then something happened. From out of nowhere, something flashed past them. Blood spurted from the dead centre of Murota's forehead, and he collapsed.

"Damn it…" Yusuke looked at Murota, then back at the man.

All movement in the area ceased. Every single eye was on them. But to Sakura, the only eyes that mattered were the ones belonging to the tall, mysterious man. Bright, piercing blue irises that contrasted with the ink-black hair on his head.

"We'll call that my introduction, Yusuke Urameshi," he said loud enough for them to hear.

Yusuke looked stricken. He's the leader. He has to be!

Genkai had gotten to her feet. Kido and Yana were starting to panic over Murota's condition.

"What do we do?"

"The hospital. Someone call an ambulance!"

Amidst the growing chaos, Sakura locked eyes with the man. A smile slowly spread across his face, and with it, a sense of absolute dread came over Sakura.

It couldn't have been more than five seconds of eye contact, but to Sakura, time seemed to freeze along with her whole body. She couldn't even breathe while he stared her down. Finally, she blinked and when her eyes opened, he was gone. Sirens and shouting were only background noise to her as the paramedics arrived and took charge.

Sakura barely registered Yusuke taking hold of her arm. He pulled her into the ambulance with the others and they started speeding towards the hospital.

"How is he?" Kido stared in horror at Murota lying on the stretcher. "You think he'll make it?"

Yana shuddered. "I don't know. Not many people survive a bullet to the brain,"

"He'll be fine," Genkai held up a tiny object. "This is the so-called bullet he took,"

Kido squinted at it. "Doesn't look like metal,"

"It's a pencil eraser," Genkai growled. Sakura felt Yusuke's hand tighten around her wrist.

"That's crazy!" he gasped. "He got his head cracked open by a pencil top?"

Genkai nodded. "That's right. It's a warning,"

Sakura slapped her hands over her mouth to keep from screaming. Yusuke gave her a look. The unspoken words passed between the twins.

We're in trouble.

"I swear we've caught every red light…" Keiko moaned when they missed the crosswalk signal by seconds.

In sheer frustration, she turned to her companion. "How can we find them now, Shizuru? We can't even find Puu,"

"Chill, princess," Shizuru's gaze was darting around the haze of insects, but her voice was calm. "We saw the blue wonder fly off in this direction. Besides, knowing my brother we can just follow the bugs. He's probably playing with them,"

Keiko blinked. "Bugs? What bugs?"

Shizuru paused. Right… no wonder she's not flipping out.

Keiko wasn't spiritually sensitive, and certainly not on her level, but the younger girl was still waiting for an answer.

"Come on, Shizuru, what are you talking about?"

Shizuru laughed evasively. "Nothing, just a fly,"

At that moment, the ambience was abruptly broken by wailing sirens. The girls watched as the ambulance went flying past them at top speed.

Shizuru jumped and pointed. "Don't look now…"

"Puu! Puu! Puu!" Their elusive soul beast was flapping along behind the ambulance, shrieking madly.

Keiko gasped. "Puu?"

Even Shizuru was visibly stunned. "Either he's taken up ambulance chasing, or Yusuke's inside!"

Keiko didn't hesitate for even a moment. She pushed past Shizuru and started running after Puu as fast as she could.

"Wait Keiko!" Shizuru called. "We don't know for sure!"

Someone else was watching the scene from a nearby rooftop. Sensui, surveying the city when his minions appeared behind him.

"Sniper. Ghost," Sensui said without turning around. Haruki stayed back in the shadows, but a sense of bitter disappointment hung around him.

Sniper was the one who spoke. "Yusuke didn't follow you as planned,"

"No, he kept his cool," Sensui mused. "I was most surprised,"

Sniper glanced back at where Haruki was borderline sulking, but otherwise didn't acknowledge him.

"Sea Man is shadowing Kurama's group," Sniper continued. "He's waiting for orders. And Yusuke's team is entering the hospital. Doctor will intercept them shortly, as you've arranged,"

Sensui still didn't turn around as another smile appeared. "One of our enemies might be the one,"

"What?" Haruki looked up at these words.

"As you'll recall, our psychic has a problem with the Kekkai barrier," Sensui explained. "Even if he completes the tunnel, the best destroyers won't be able to cross. We need another psychic to break the net. We may have found one in this group,"

Sniper was intrigued. "Who is it?"

"You leave that business to me," Sensui said coolly. "In the meantime, let's get rid of the extras. Let's dig a hole, Sniper. Each one of us. Seven graves should be a decent start…"

"...Let's dig a hole, Sniper. Each one of us. Seven graves should be a decent start," Murota finished.

Sakura's eyes were shut tightly. Come on, show me something! Why isn't my tsunagu technique working?!

It was useless. The only answer was unyielding darkness and that horrific white noise.

Why isn't Hiei here? His Jagan eye… he could see them, and we could…

Sakura paused. The thought of Hiei's departure only made her chest ache, and that wasn't going to help anyone. She opened her eyes and tried to focus on what Murota was saying.

"Dark Angel, Gatekeeper, Sniper, Gourmet, Game Master, Doctor, Sea Man, and Ghost," Murota continued in a shaky voice. "Those were the words that came to his mind when he said the word seven,"

Kido shook his head. "Seven? But that's eight names!"

Sakura grew rigid on the hard emergency room chair. "Maybe… maybe he's not counting himself, since he's the leader,"

"But what does it mean?" Yana turned to Genkai for answers. "Are those the names of the guys who are making this tunnel? I mean, there's eight of them!"

Yusuke looked at Murota. "Is that all? Could there be more?"

"I don't know," Murota stammered. He looked much better now that his injury had been dressed. "That's just what I heard in the back of his mind, like a speech he was preparing. Everything else was just this terrible hatred, and an urge to kill!"

Sakura shuddered. "Pure evil. I've never heard anything like it,"

"Kura," Yusuke gripped her shoulder. "That vision move you have. Can you see anything? Anything at all?"

Sakura's shoulders slumped in exhausted defeat. "No," she sighed. "I'm sorry, Yusuke. Every single time I try, it's nothing but black and interference that penetrates my brain,"

Yusuke gritted his teeth. "But why? This hasn't happened before. You've always been able to see whatever we needed!"

"I'd say one of the psychics in the group has the ability to block Sakura's visions," Genkai said gravely. "Either way, don't waste your energy trying to see, Missy,"

Sakura nodded and sighed. She felt as if she'd just run a marathon from the effort and that wasn't counting the lingering fear from the man who'd confronted them.

"Gourmet, Doctor, Gatekeeper… those all gotta be nicknames, right?" Kido looked around at them all.

"Well of course," Genkai said. "And more than likely they're clues to each of their particular abilities,"

She turned to her apprentice. "By the way, Yusuke. You did well with that confrontation. You finally showed patience. You didn't start punching like a moron,"

"It's been known to happen," Sakura managed a small smile.

"Very funny, you damn brat," Yusuke gave her a look, then hesitated. "And I didn't start punching because I think… I was afraid of him,"

Sakura looked up. "You felt it too, then,"

Yusuke nodded. "I sensed it right when we met. There's something… dangerous about him. It's not what I sensed, though. It's what I didn't sense,"

"What do you mean?" Yana asked.

"Like, who I saw wasn't the real thing," Yusuke explained slowly. "If Toguro was all about throwing the fast ball, then this guy definitely likes the curve,"

Sakura swore she could still feel the man's eyes on her, and she shivered. She could only compare his aura to a spider lurking in his trap. He'd wait for his prey to stumble directly into it, then wrap them up, poison them and suck them dry. At least Toguro had been completely open about the power gap.

"Yes, and we know he's the type who saves that pitch until the very last inning," Genkai smiled ruefully. "He won't reveal his power until he's ready to finish us. The fact that he didn't use his own power to attack Murota tells us that,"

Murota bolted upright. "What?!"

"Are you kidding me?" Yana was starting to sweat. "You mean, the guy who was standing there isn't the one who shot him?"

Yusuke shook his head and locked eyes with his sister's white face. "No, he didn't do anything at all,"

"Then you noticed it as well," Genkai held up the eraser. "The angle was wrong. The shot came from five feet to the man's right. Him facing us was just a signal,"

"For who?" Murota asked. "Who's the shooter?"

Sakura suppressed the urge to roll her eyes. "Maybe I'm jumping ahead here, but my odds would be on the one called Sniper,"

"Let's examine what we do know," Genkai said calmly, with her eyes on the makeshift bullet. "This eraser has faint demon trace marks. It's hard enough to break the skin and scare us, but too soft to pierce the skull,"

Sakura watched Murota press his hand to his bandaged head. "Yeah, and forehead injuries tend to bleed a lot, so it looks worse than it is," she explained.

"It was launched by telekinesis," Genkai went on. "Seconds after the shot was fired, I tried to trace it back towards its origin, but it was too far. It must've been fired from over five hundred yards away,"

Kido's jaw dropped. "That's five football fields!"

"Sheesh," Sakura's head was spinning. "My telekinesis can't compare to that range,"

Genkai clutched the bullet in her tiny fist. "If they're all as strong as this trigger man…"

"Yeah, I got you," Yusuke muttered. The gravity of what they were really up against was starting to hit home. "We're all in a world of hurt,"

That was the last straw for Murota. He was back to whimpering like a child again. "No, enough! I didn't sign up for any of this, you people. I'm not a hero. I don't want to die!"

Sakura buried her head in her hands. This was bad. This was really, really bad. They needed to regroup. They needed to tell the others what they'd found out. And she needed to feel her lover's calming presence.

Kurama, where are you?

Murota's wailing only lasted a few seconds before Yusuke's patience ran out. "Listen, crybaby. We don't have time to freak out,"

"Yusuke," Sakura sighed while massaging her temples. "Whatever you decide to do in life, becoming a counsellor is not an option,"

"Shut it, you damn brat. They could be coming for us!"

Murota looked up helplessly. "But how can I help you? I'm not used to this kind of thing!"

"Your mind reading ability may only be a one-way street, but you have a wider range than I do," Sakura said as calmly as she could manage. "And the lack of interference is a huge advantage,"

"But I'm scared," Murota whimpered. "I don't know how to save the planet,"

Yusuke didn't let up. "Give us those names again,"

"Uh, ok," Murota stammered. "There's Gamemaster, Dark Angel, Gatekeeper, Sea Man, Doctor, Sniper, Gourmet and Ghost,"

Sakura stood up slowly. "And if Sniper's the one who shot him…"

"That's one we've worked out," Genkai finished. "Leaving seven more psychics who's powers we can only guess about!" Her voice was heavy with frustration. "All these enemies with extraordinary talents…and besides the man who approached us, we have no idea what they look like,"

"Right," Yusuke gritted his teeth. So even smiling grannies are suspects…" He rubbed his forehead angrily. "Usually Kura would be able to see, but that's clearly a dead end this time. And without Hiei…"

Sakura's heart sank. "Yeah. We're in a huge blind spot,"

"I wish I had more to give you, but I don't," Murota admitted. "Like I said, all that's on this guy's mind is this huge urge to kill. He wants every human being dead,"

"With this plan, he'll succeed," Genkai said grimly. The four teens exchanged worried looks.

Murota seized handfuls of his hair in a panic. "I can't take this! Why didn't you tell me it would be this bad?!"

"Careful, slugger," Yusuke sighed. "You're crying again,"

"Listen," Genkai began. "I want us all on full alert -"

It happened again. The momentary flash of ultraviolet light, the slight chill in the air, the pulsing energy. The group froze. Yusuke immediately drew closer to Sakura. His hand closed around her arm again.

"You feel that?" Yana muttered. "Someone just opened up their territory!"

"So there's another psychic like us in the hospital," Kido growled.

Murota looked around wildly. "That Doctor one!" he cried. "We're inside a hospital, of course he'd be here! He's coming to finish us off!"

Sakura pushed her fear to the back of her mind. There was no time for that. She had to focus.

"Make a circle, facing outward," Yusuke ordered. "We won't let anyone sneak up on us this time!"

They immediately followed his instructions, but Yusuke squeezed his sister's hand to get her attention. Despite the minor interference, she could hear him.

Can you get Kurama and the others here?

Sakura took a breath. It's going to be difficult inside this territory, but I'll do my -

"Hey!"

"A bug!"

A cry from Yana and Murota caused the twins to look around quickly. Yana was slapping at the strange yellow insect on his hand. "It put something in me!"

Sakura caught a glimpse of the insect and its syringe-like implement just as it vanished.

A bizarre green colour began spreading from the spot where it had stung all over the rest of Yana's skin, and the same thing was happening to Murota. Both victims collapsed.

"What the hell happened?!" Yusuke cried.

"My whole body is aching…" Yana barely seemed able to talk.

Kido put a hand to his friend's forehead and pulled it away almost immediately. "He's burning up!"

"What were those things?" Sakura asked frantically. "Why are they getting sick?!"

Genkai was already on it. "Those weren't the same parasites we saw in town!"

"It's a virus…" Murota moaned. "I heard his thoughts. He's going to infect everybody inside his territory!"

Sakura's head whirled, but she quickly pulled herself together just in time for Genkai to shout a warning.

"There's more coming! Kill as many as you can!"

Sakura looked, and sure enough there was a swarm of those same little pests heading straight for their group. Her heart skipped a beat. All of them were equipped with tiny syringes, and a viciously green liquid sloshed around inside.

None of those left wasted a moment. The four able-bodied fighters began destroying every insect within reach.

"Reflection Shield!" At Sakura's command, her barrier exploded around them all. It wasn't much, but at least it would keep them safe for now.

"Is something wrong?" A confused yet concerned looking nurse was making her way over. "Why are your friends on the ground?"

Bugs were hovering over the woman. Sakura flinched at the sight. She opened her mouth, but Yusuke spoke first.

"They'll make a meal out of her!"

Kido waved his hands frantically. "Get them off you!"

The nurse paused and looked around her. "This is a busy place, boys. I don't have time to play pretend,"

"The non-spiritually aware still can't see them!" Sakura moaned.

Genkai looked up from the horde she'd just killed. "Our only hope is to find the psychic and knock them out. Let's go!"

Along with Genkai, Yusuke and Kido ran from the relative safety of Sakura's shield, past the nurse and down a hallway.

Not wanting to be left behind, Sakura reluctantly followed, calling out to the nurse on her way past.

"Nurse, those two need medical attention!"

She quickly caught up to her companions. "What's the plan? How are we going to find this guy?"

Kido glanced at Yusuke. "You realise how many doctors are in here?"

"Ok, then we'll just have to knock them all out," Yusuke growled.

Genkai grunted in agreement. "Just don't hit too hard. I hate crippling civilians,"

Kido gave Sakura a brief, incredulous look. "Are they serious?!"

"Kido, if you've got any doubts on your mind, this is the time to bail," Yusuke said before Sakura could reply. "It's life or death!"

Kido's expression hardened. "Both those choices seem better than demons on my street. You don't have to worry about me!"

"This Doctor might not work here," Genkai suggested. "Maybe a nurse could spot an imposter!"

"I'll take care of that, guys," Kido volunteered.

"I'll check upstairs," Yusuke said. "Kura, you go back to the entrance and try to contact the others. We're going to need them,"

Sakura swallowed hard. "I'm on it,"

"If anyone finds him, make a noise we'll all hear," Genkai called over her shoulder. "Either scream or blow something up!"

"And see if you can get hold of me as well," Sakura added quickly. "I know we're in a territory, but it's worth a shot!"

They were gone, running off in three different directions. Sakura doubled back, heading towards the main entrance as fast as she could.

If I can just get outside, away from his territory, I might be able to send a message to Kurama and the others…oh my God!

Sakura was back in the lobby, but the scene was dire. She looked around in horror.

Seconds previously, the room had been full of people, buzzing with life. Now, every single person was curled up in agony on the ground with that same odd green shade to their skin.

She knelt beside Yana, who's condition was rapidly deteriorating. "Yana, all these people got stung?"

He nodded weakly, but suddenly gasped. "Sakura, look out!"

An ominous buzzing echoed in her ear. Sakura turned quickly in time to smack the insect off her arm, but there was a swarm converging on her.

"Spirit Blast!"

Sakura's attack took care of the wave in seconds, but she could already see that more were on the way.

"Get out… of here…" Yana croaked. "Run…"

There was a ten metre gap between her and the exit. Sakura jumped over a few bodies on the floor, almost tripping in the process and made a mad bolt for the door.

I have to get out of here!

Another horde of insects darted between the girl and freedom. Sakura skidded to a halt and raised her shield again just as the lights flickered out. The hospital was plunged into darkness.

Sakura's heart seemed to freefall. She could destroy those insects, but if there was no power, there was no way out of here.

This is bad. This is really, REALLY bad!

Amidst her panic, Sakura shut her eyes and channelled all her energy into the communication. There was only one chance. Extremely small, but it was all she had.

Kurama? I hope you can hear me. We're in the hospital, and under attack. If you get this, please hurry!

Outside, Sensui approached Haruki with a devious look on his face. "Come now, Ghost. You have work to do,"

Haruki looked up. "What is it, sir?"

"The targets are in the hospital, and the Doctor has gotten to work. Now it's time for you to act,"

"You mean it, Dark Angel?" Hope flooded Haruki's voice. "It's time for my answers?"

Sensui shook his head slowly. "Not quite, my boy. I merely want you to test one of your techniques,"

"You mean Technique Zero?"

"No," Sensui's smile widened. "Technique Binary,"

Haruki cocked his head skeptically. "But why? Technique Zero is -"

"With Doctor's insects separating them all, this is the perfect opportunity to try Technique Binary in the field, so to speak,"

Haruki nodded. "Yes, sir. I understand,"

"I can sense where the girl is," Sensui told him. "She should be your primary target. But be cautious. They can't know you're the one behind it,"

Haruki was already preparing himself. "Of course. I'll make sure she doesn't suspect a thing. What do you want me to do?"

"Most importantly, she'll never divulge her secrets like this," Sensui said with his eyes glittering. "No interrogations, and no deviating from the plan. Just… keep her busy,"

He looked down at the hospital. "The Spirit Detective and his twin have a strong connection. Miss Urameshi seems to be something of a moderating influence on her brother. I want to see what Yusuke will do without her guidance,"

Haruki's eyes lit up. "Of course, sir. I'll start by taking the light,"

This was it. After all this time, he was going to catch his first glimpse of the girl.

One step closer to discovering who you really are, Sakura. One way or another, I'm going to find out.

A.N. And this is the beginning of it all. Haruki's about to make his first move in this twisted game, encouraged by Sensui, and Sakura's alone with her powers being blocked.

Chapter 13 will be posted by September 15th, but I will try to post it earlier than that. You can help by following/favouriting and leaving a review. What do you think will happen next? What could Technique Binary or Technique Zero mean, and how can Sakura possibly fight against an enemy she doesn't know about?

See you soon!

Next Chapter: Yusuke and Sakura are confronted with their equally demented opponents, and time is not on their side.