A.N. I'm excited for you all to see this chapter. It's pretty wild, so enjoy!

DCD Gojira: :D

Ghost of Magic: No, but she's not alone. Try to keep that in mind. The story is far from over.

Starrat: I really hope this one lives up to expectations!

Wolfs child: It's about to get a lot more interesting. Hope you like it!

Guest 2.0: Yes he is, and it's a bit of a double-edged sword to be honest. Honestly, I love those two so much. It's a joy to write their interactions. There's a lot coming for Sakura. We're glad you're with us on the journey.

hw0134160: Yes, yes and yes. The suspense is building, Haruki's obsession is getting worse and Sensui is NOT helping. Anyway, the happiest of birthdays to you, sweetheart. Hope this nice long chapter is a decent gift from me and Sakura.

Lady Amazon: :D That makes me so happy. I can't thank you enough.

Hina714: Sorry about that. If it makes you feel any better, I get frustrated while writing with not being able to reveal things just yet. Hopefully, when everything is said and done you'll understand why I chose to reveal things when I did. I promise that it's done with the most meticulous of planning. Hope you like this one!

Sakura-chan: If Kurama only knew...but he wouldn't hesitate to kill him this time. It wouldn't matter what Sakura said, he'd just destroy him so completely that even Spirit World couldn't judge him.

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 16

Sakura looked after Kuwabara's disappearing figure for a second before she told herself to snap out of it. She took Botan's hand and hurried after her twin.

"Yusuke! Wait!" Sakura caught up to him within moments and forcibly turned him around.

"What the hell do you want?" he snapped.

She glared. "We need to call Genkai. She'll want to know about this,"

"Great!" Yusuke snorted. "You go call Grandma then!"

"I don't care how pissed you are," Sakura rolled her eyes. "Remember what Genkai said? We can't rush into this without thinking or it's a suicide mission!"

Botan hastily got in between them. "Settle down, you two!"

"...Fine!" Yusuke threw up his hands. "But first we get Fox Boy and the others, alright?"

"Alright," Sakura agreed. "Then back home to talk about this rationally!"

Yusuke opened his mouth at the same time the heavens opened with heavy rain.

Sakura handed towels around. "Looks like I'll have to use good old fashioned telepathy to rally the troops,"

The rain had forced the twins to slosh back to their apartment to dry off with Botan in tow. Naturally, Atsuko was out, so this was as good a place as any to regroup.

Yusuke rubbed his damp hair. "Whatever," he growled. "Just tell them to get their asses here!"

With that, Yusuke stormed off to his room and slammed the door. Seconds later, his video game console flickered to life.

"He's humanity's best hope?" Botan rolled her eyes in disgust.

"He'll calm down eventually," Sakura shook her head. "Would you like some tea?"

The suggestion visibly cheered Botan up. "That would be lovely, but I'll get it. You should call the others,"

She danced into the kitchen. Sakura sat down on the couch and began to unbind her wet hair while wishing Kuwabara hadn't gone out to the concert. Yusuke's fury aside, the incident in Mushiyori had shown that splitting the group was far from a safe option.

It was up to her to get everyone in the same location. First things first.

Kurama, can you hear me? There's been an update.

Silence.

Kurama? It's me.

Still no response.

The quiver in her stomach returned. Kurama always responded to her communications, no matter what. There was no interference since she wasn't in a territory, so that couldn't be it.

He must be out of range. It's the only explanation.

Sakura took a deep breath. Time to enact plan B.

Kaito, it's Kura. Can you hear me?

A second later, Kaito replied. Yes, Kura. What's going on?

Is Ku… Shuichi in class right now?

Sakura already knew the answer before Kaito responded that he wasn't.

Just like she thought. Wherever Kurama had gone, it certainly wasn't Meiou Academy.

Ok. Look, I can't tell you too much like this, but in short, the situation has… escalated. I need you to get Yana and come to our apartment as soon as you can. Alright?

Certainly. We'll be there.

Sakura told Kaito the address and closed the connection just as Botan returned with the tea.

"I just spoke to Kaito. He and Yana will be around after school,"

"Well that's something," Botan sighed. "What a mess,"

Sakura nodded while staring into the steaming cup. She was lost in thought. First that cryptic message was delivered by Shiori, then Kurama didn't reply to her, and now Kaito had confirmed that he wasn't in class.

Sakura's hands shook slightly. She still needed to contact Genkai, but for a moment she let her mind wander. Kurama could take care of himself, but she was worried. For him to just take off like that…

Where could he be?

Kurama took another step towards the trembling blue ogre.

"Then take me to records. It is of the utmost importance that I speak with Koenma immediately,"

Jorge backed away. "Please, not records. Koenma will discipline me if he finds out!"

Kurama didn't reply, but his piercing gaze spoke volumes. A trickle of sweat ran down Jorge's face. The fox demon was simply not going to take no for an answer.

"Oh… alright!" Jorge had finally relented under Kurama's determined look. He turned around and began leading Kurama to the top-secret record room while muttering under his breath.

"The other day he disciplined me so hard my hip popped out of its socket and I couldn't fit into my loincloth. And looks are important to us ogres, especially when courting the ladies and I haven't gotten married yet. My mother is hounding me,"

The doors to the cavernous record room opened. Jorge glanced back at Kurama. "Do you know where I could find a new job? I need one. I think he likes the new girl better…he always calls her by name…"

Koenma was sitting on top of a ladder with his nose in a book, but at the sound of Jorge's whining he whirled around.

"Would you can it, Jorge?!"

His eyes widened when he saw who the ogre had brought along.

"Kurama, why are you here?"

"I've come to pose a question," Kurama said solemnly.

Koenma immediately turned back to his book. "Oh, brother,"

Kurama didn't let up. "I believe you know the true identity of the mastermind of this tunnel. Am I right?"

"Don't be ridiculous!" Koenma couldn't meet Kurama's gaze. "If I knew who he was, don't you think I would've told you so you could stop him?"

"Perhaps not… if you feared he would defeat us,"

Koenma jumped. "Hmm?"

"Your behaviour has been an erratic blend of urgency and silence," Kurama continued. "I think you're scrambling because you don't know how we can win,"

Koenma was silent. Kurama's eyes narrowed slightly as if they were seeing right through the toddler.

"That means you know things we do not. Like his identity. And his past,"

The book slipped from Koenma's hands. He jumped to his feet in a rage. "How dare you accuse me with some groundless hunch?!"

"But I'm right," Kurama said calmly. "Am I not?"

Koenma pointed an accusing finger. "Ha! I see what this is really about!" he spluttered. "You're just mad about what happened to Sakura at the hospital, aren't you? Yes, you're blaming me because you couldn't get there in time to stop that other psychic!"

Jorge gasped. Koenma glared at Kurama, but that only lasted a few more seconds before he recoiled.

Kurama's hair was threaded with silver. His bright green eyes began fading to a golden hue.

"So you know about that," Even Kurama's voice had more gravel in it.

Koenma whimpered. "Well, I uh… you see…"

"I erased the most vile memory from that assault, but we are running out of time," The aura surrounding Kurama seemed to crackle. "What else do you know, Koenma?"

Jorge had taken refuge behind a bookshelf. Koenma was sweating, but still refused to back down.

"Either the psychic who attacked Kura knows us from a previous encounter, or has been tailing us extremely closely," Kurama growled. "There are few options as to who it could be. So answer me this: is Haruki alive?"

"What?!" Koenma squawked in shock. "Of course not! He died when Sakyo blew up the stadium, remember? Nobody could have survived such an explosion!"

Kurama's gaze never wavered. "Are you certain of that?"

Silence filled the room, mixing uncomfortably with Kurama's quiet fury.

"But Kurama…" Koenma said weakly. "You saw it for yourself. He begged you to let him die with Sakyo. There's no way he'd be able to carry on without him!"

Kurama frowned. "Perhaps not… unless he teamed up with another strong personality,"

More silence. Koenma gulped.

"You saw what happened in that basement, Koenma," Kurama's voice was dangerous. "And you saw her memories at the Dark Tournament. Do you really want Kura to go through such an ordeal again?"

Koenma flushed and looked at his feet. "No…"

At last, Kurama's appearance began returning to normal, but his eyes remained cold. "It's true, Haruki is most likely deceased, but I strongly suggest you confirm that as soon as possible,"

With one final warning look at Koenma, Kurama swept out. He'd been away from Sakura for far too long.

Koenma watched him leave with a shudder. "Ogre?"

"Yes sir?" Jorge poked his head out from behind the shelf.

"Go to the archives. Have them fetch the list of departed souls from the past three months and bring it to me immediately,"

Jorge's eyes bugged out. "But Koenma sir, that will completely mess up the system! What would your father think?"

"Just do it!" Koenma snapped. Jorge scurried off without another word.

Finally alone, Koenma buried his head in his hands while wondering what more could possibly go wrong with this case.

"Come on in," Sakura stood back to let Kaito and Yana enter out of the rain. Behind them, she saw that the rain had gotten heavier. "Genkai's here too, in the living room. We have to catch you up,"

The boys put their umbrellas by the door. "This is where you live?" Yana asked with a slight air of surprise.

"That's right," Sakura nodded. "We moved here after our old house burned down,"

"It's nice," Kaito looked around.

Sakura smiled and led them down the hall where Genkai, Botan and Keiko were seated around the table playing cards.

"It's almost a full house," Kaito adjusted his glasses. "Although we seem to be missing a few,"

Genkai looked exasperated. "Is that dimwit still playing games?"

"Probably," Sakura headed for Yusuke's room. Behind her, she could hear Botan explaining the situation to everyone.

Sakura put her mouth up close to Yusuke's door, knowing better than to go in. "Hey, everyone's here!"

No answer. She could hear the sounds of his favourite fighting game blaring and rapped harder. "Oi, Yusuke! We're waiting for you!"

"Give me a sec, you damn brat. I have to finish this level!"

Sakura rolled her eyes and trudged back out to the living room.

Great. His bad mood is even worse now.

"He'll be out in a moment," Sakura deadpanned to everyone else. She sat down next to Keiko.

Yana nudged Sakura. "Won't your parents find having us all over a little crowded?"

Sakura shook her head. "Don't worry, that's not an issue,"

Kaito looked up from the cards that Genkai had just dealt out to him. "They're not here? What time should we expect them back?"

Sakura laughed ruefully. "Hmm, it's Thursday, so Mother's out on one of her escapades. She might stumble through the door on Monday morning. But that's a very generous estimate,"

Keiko mimed drinking behind Sakura to explain. Yana and Kaito exchanged a look.

"I'm almost afraid to ask," Yana said curiously. "But what does your Mom do?"

"For work? She doesn't," Sakura shrugged. "But Yusuke swears he's seen her extorting money from some corrupt cops,"

Silence fell around the room. Nobody was entirely sure whether Sakura was joking or not.

"And… your dad?" Kaito couldn't seem to help himself despite Keiko and Botan both making frantic shushing motions at the pair.

"Your guess is as good as mine," Sakura was calmly arranging her own hand of cards. "He's been gone since Yusuke and I were three, I think? I don't really remember anything about him,"

The most awkward of silences followed, broken only by Yusuke appearing. He was out of his uniform and still in a rage over Kuwabara ditching out on them.

Yusuke sat down in a huff and looked over at everyone in attendance. He seemed to be taking a mental roll call before his face darkened.

"Kurama hasn't shown up yet," he growled. "Why not?"

Sakura opened her mouth to speak, but Genkai beat her to it. "We're not sure. He seems to be MIA for now,"

"Give me a break!" Yusuke yelled. "What do you mean, he's missing?"

"He didn't come to school today," Kaito explained calmly.

Sakura glanced up. "I couldn't get hold of him either,"

Yusuke rounded on his twin. "Talk, Kura! Where'd your fox go?"

"If I knew, I'd probably be with him!" she shot back. "It's not like the portal's creator is going anywhere. Kurama will be back soon, I'm sure of it!"

Yusuke growled. "Hiei, then Kuwabara and now Kurama? YOU CAN'T COUNT ON ANYBODY! I just need to do this alone -!"

Genkai pitched her teacup across the table where it collided with Yusuke's head and momentarily silenced his rant.

"Shut up!" the old woman ordered. "Now that we know where these psychics are hiding, we can mount an attack. But it must be carefully planned,"

Sakura turned to Kaito and Yana. "That cave Koenma mentioned, do you two know anything about it?"

"I've heard of Demon's Door Cave," Yana said slowly. "It's something of an urban legend,"

Kaito was solemn. "It's said that scorned lovers go there to die, which shows our enemies like irony. If we go unprepared, it'll be suicide as well,"

"Hey, I don't need a lesson from you too, rookie!" Yusuke snapped. He whirled around and headed for the door. "Stupid freckles…"

Keiko stood up. "Hold on Yusuke -"

"DAMN IT!" His temper had officially reached breaking point. There was no stopping him. "Everyone, just leave me alone!"

Sakura was also on her feet. "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to the arcade!" her brother snapped.

Sakura felt a stab of fear at the thought.

He was heading off alone? After what had happened at the hospital?

"You can't!" she caught hold of his arm. "We're supposed to stick together -"

Yusuke smacked her hand away. "Shut it, you damn brat!" he shouted. "Don't talk to me about going off alone! How many times have you done that to the rest of us?!"

She froze.

"You're the one who got stuck in the basement with that perv!" he yelled even louder. "Maybe you should think about that instead of giving me your stupid lectures!"

Sakura's heart clenched. She lowered her hands in defeat. Without another word, Yusuke marched out of the apartment and slammed the door behind him.

Keiko hurried up behind her best friend. "Kura, don't listen. He's just being a jerk,"

Sakura didn't say anything. Her mind was whirring at top speed.

"I don't know what's gotten into him," Keiko brought her back to the table. "He shouldn't be going out alone, should he?"

"Give him space," Genkai said calmly. "If he's that dumb, he deserves to die. But I suspect he's worried about Kuwabara,"

Botan started rubbing Sakura's back. "Kura? You look pale, honey. Are you feeling alright?"

"What did Yusuke mean?" Sakura's voice was barely above a whisper.

Botan blinked. "What was that?"

"He called the psychic I fought a perv. That's not a word he normally uses," Sakura stared at the table. Her hands were beginning to shake. "Why would he say that?"

Very slowly, Sakura looked up at everyone else. Nobody seemed able to look at her directly, especially Botan and Yana.

"Genkai, why would he say that?" Sakura's voice rose in pitch. "I don't remember much about the hospital. What did Yusuke mean?"

"You're overthinking it!" Botan said quickly. "Yusuke was angry, and you know he doesn't -"

BANG!

Sakura slammed her hands down on the table. "Don't try to protect me, Botan. What's really going on here?"

Genkai looked up. "I don't think this conversation is helpful, Missy. You're overreacting,"

"Am I?" Sakura growled, glaring at each of them in turn. The only one who seemed genuinely confused was Keiko.

Finally, Sakura got to her feet and left the room. Everyone heard her bedroom door closing, and the clicking of a lock.

Keiko raised an eyebrow. "What was all that about?"

The lone figure in a yellow hoodie looked up at the sign advertising the rock band, and smiled. He could just hear the faint sounds of music and ear-splitting cheers inside over the heavy rainfall.

The young boy reached into his pocket and pulled out a small flick knife, delicately cutting at his fingertip until a single drop of blood appeared.

"An unexpected rainstorm," Sensui approached from behind with an umbrella. "Is this a good time for you?"

Sea Man chuckled. "Yeah, probably,"

Sensui handed over the umbrella and began to walk away to where Haruki lay in wait.

"Mr Sensui?"

Sea Man tossed the umbrella back. "I won't be needing that,"

"I look forward to great results, Sea Man," Sensui smirked over his shoulder.

Several metres away, Haruki's shadow form was hovering in the branches of a tree. Under the cover of night, he'd be undetectable.

"You know what to do, Ghost,"

"Yes Mr Sensui," Haruki's distorted voice replied. "I won't let you down,"

Sensui slipped his hands in his pockets. "Remember, it's essential that you don't engage. Nobody on Team Urameshi must even suspect your presence,"

Haruki's laughter bubbled up. "They won't, Mr Sensui. You can be assured that I will follow your instructions to the letter,"

"Good. I'll see you soon," Sensui strode off into the rain.

Sakura jumped at the unexpected knock on her bedroom door. "Wh-who is it?"

"Kura? Are you ok?" Keiko called.

"Oh, uh…just a sec!" Sakura glanced in the mirror and quickly wiped her streaming eyes. It didn't make much of a difference, but either way Keiko was going to see that she'd been crying. She took a deep breath to calm herself and unlocked the door.

"Hi…"

Keiko frowned at the sight of Sakura's tear-stained face. "Can I come in?"

Sakura hesitated, but only for a second before stepping back and allowing Keiko to enter. She sat back down at her desk and started scribbling away again. Keiko could only see so much from the angle she was standing on, but it seemed like Sakura was drawing some kind of mind-map.

"Kura, what are you doing?"

Sakura barely glanced at her. "I'm trying to figure out what kind of powers the other psychics might have. Those names are a clue, I know it,"

Keiko watched Sakura for a few more seconds. She seemed to be debating whether or not to say something.

"Listen, Kura…about before…"

Sakura visibly tensed up.

"I understand if you don't want to talk about it," Keiko said carefully. "But if you need to, I'm here,"

Now it was Sakura's turn to debate with herself. The inner argument between logic and emotion. Should she tell her friend how she really felt, or shoulder it alone as her instincts were screaming for her to do?

Remember what you learned in therapy. A problem shared is a problem halved.

Sakura closed her eyes and swallowed. "I'm scared, Keiko,"

"Of course," Keiko leaned forward to take her hand. "What's worrying you the most?"

"If I'm honest, Kurama. I haven't heard from him all day. That's not like him,"

Keiko frowned. "That is odd, but he can take care of himself. I'm sure he'll be back soon,"

"You're right, but... we barely got out of that hospital alive," Sakura whispered. "Physically, that Doctor wasn't as strong as Yusuke, but his powers…" she shuddered. "He was so dangerous,"

Keiko listened without judgement. Suddenly, Sakura gripped Keiko's hands tightly and looked up at her with wide, frightened eyes.

"If you knew something I didn't, you'd tell me, right?"

Keiko was taken aback. "What do you mean?"

"I never saw that freak in the basement. I hit my head pretty hard, so my memories are fuzzy after a certain point. And what Yusuke said…" Sakura took a deep breath to calm her shaking voice. "I don't remember, and if everyone else knows, and I don't… "

Keiko pulled Sakura into a hug. "I'm not hiding anything from you, Kura. Promise. But why would everyone else know?"

"I'm probably overthinking it too much," Sakura admitted. "It's just… Kurama has this… plant. He can remove memories with it,"

Keiko's heart skipped a beat. "I see," she said slowly. "Do you think that he might've…?"

Her heart was now pounding. If she wasn't cautious from this moment, things could unravel very quickly.

"I don't know what I think," Sakura closed her eyes. "I just can't shake the suspicion,"

Keiko pressed her lips together. "Let's not jump to any conclusions just yet," she said as calmly as she could. "But if Kurama did use it… don't you think he would've done it because he was trying to stop you from being hurt again? He loves you. All he wants to do is keep you safe and happy,"

Sakura looked down to hide her tears. "I love him, Keiko. More than I could possibly describe. I know that he'd have done it to protect me, but all the same, shouldn't I be the one to decide?"

So many emotions were at war inside Sakura's mind. She didn't know what to think.

"Is it wrong, Keiko?" Sakura asked almost desperately. "Is it wrong for me to question what he may or may not have done? I don't want to hurt him or make him think I don't trust him,"

"Of course not. And I'm sure Kurama wouldn't think that way," Keiko said gently. "I don't know if you realise how much he loves you,"

Sakura nodded. "That's the thing. I know he loves me unconditionally. If it turned out to be true… look, I probably wouldn't be too happy about it, but I'd get over it,"

Keiko hugged her again and took the mindmap off the desk. "Look, I think you've done enough brainstorming for one day," she smiled. "Come out and play Euchre with the rest of us,"

Sakura gave a watery laugh. "Sure. Deal me in,"

"One more thing," Keiko reached for the Hiruseki pendant on the bedside table and fastened it around Sakura's slender neck.

"Remember what Yukina said. You're strong, Kura. In more ways than you seem to realise," Keiko locked eyes with her best friend. "None of us think you're weak,"

Sakura hugged Keiko tightly.

Thank you.

The concert was over. Kuwabara and his friends left the arena and began their journey home. They were so excited, they hardly noticed the rain.

"My life is complete!" Kuwabara sighed happily.

Okubo grinned. "We were so close they could sweat on us!"

"Hey, let's hit the karaoke bar to top things off!" Miyamoto said enthusiastically.

Kuwabara paused. "I don't know…" he turned around with a giant smile. "Only if we sing the Megallica hits in the order they played!"

"YEAH!" The gang cheered and continued on their way.

It's been nothing but fighting recently. What's the harm in kicking back for one night?

"Did you guys see that girl in the black Megallica shirt who tried to run up on stage?" Okubo giggled.

Miyamoto shook his head. "I bet working security for those shows is the best gig in the world,"

"Nah, roadie's the way to go," Komada insisted.

"Dummies!" Kuwabara chortled. "I'd be in the band playing tambourine!"

Komada fell back behind the group. He thought he heard something, but upon turning around there was nobody in sight. He waved off the feeling and went to catch up with the others.

Must've been my imagination… huh?

There it was again. Komada paused. Were those footsteps?

"Hello?"

A strange light glowed on the pavement near his feet. Something rose up out of it… some kind of giant hand…

Komada was paralysed by fear. "HELP ME!"

Just up ahead, the boys heard his frantic cry and stopped.

"Komada?" Miyamoto called. "What's the hold up -?"

His words died on his lips. He saw it too. That same glow on the waterlogged pavement. Something was rising out of the puddle. Some kind of monstrous creature.

Miyamoto jumped back. "Kuwabara, help! There's something coming!"

Kuwabara spun around. His jaw dropped. The water beast raised a finger, and it transformed into a sharp spike before shooting towards the boys.

Kuwabara reached out his own hand to protect Miyamoto from being pierced. Blood flowed from where he took the hit. He collapsed to his knees in pain.

"Kuwabara, no!"

The water spike retracted, and the creature vanished. It was as if it had never existed.

"I don't get it," Miyamoto was white as chalk. "What was that?"

"Kuwabara, you're hurt!" Okubo looked around wildly. "And where's Komada?"

Kuwabara glared into the darkness. "That's enough. Show yourself, freak!"

The streetlight above them flickered out. Slow footsteps made their way over. The enemy appeared in the dull lamp a few metres away, wearing a yellow hoodie.

"I'm so glad the weatherman was right today. My powers work best in the rain,"

Kuwabara had been expecting to see a demon, but instead he was looking at a human. A boy around his age, no less.

"I really hope I'm having a nightmare…" Okubo whimpered.

The water beast was hovering behind the boy, holding Komada by the neck a few inches off the ground.

"Komada…!" Kuwabara gasped.

The psychic boy laughed. "Honestly, you should be focusing on your own short life rather than worrying about his,"

"Say what?!"

"Let me introduce myself," the psychic said slyly. "Everyone should at least know the name of the person who kills him,"

Kuwabara snorted. "You, killing me? That's a joke!"

"Why the bluffs, Kuwabara? I know all about your lost powers,"

Kuwabara fell silent. The boy raised his head slightly.

"I'm Kiyoshi Mitari. Nickname, Sea Man,"

"One of the eight?" Kuwabara growled. "Oh, I've got a bone to pick with you!"

Nobody was aware of who was watching them from the nearby wall. With his energy suppressed in his shadow form, Haruki drank in the sight. Even Sea Man had no idea that Sensui had deployed another of his minions, and Haruki intended to keep it that way.

This will be fun.

He focused on expanding his blockade around the street, just like Sensui had instructed. The same trick that the old man had taught him all those years ago. Finally, the training had actually been useful.

Keep Sakura from being able to see Kuwabara. It'll draw her team out into the open, just like Sensui said.

Kuwabara wasn't able to use his abilities at the moment. Sakura was protective, and far more level-headed than her brother. If she couldn't keep an eye on her friend, Sakura would suspect something was wrong, and at least one of them would surely arrive to help.

Maybe… maybe she'll come herself. And I'll get a glimpse before we strike.

Though Sensui had ordered him not to engage, the thought of having her in eyesight was simply mouth-watering.

The perfect preview of the main event.

Sakura looked up. "Did you hear that?"

"Sounded like someone's at the door," Botan agreed. "Surely it's not your mother?"

"No," Sakura stood up and walked to the entrance. "It's probably Kurama,"

Her heart leapt at the thought. She opened the door, but it wasn't who she was hoping to see.

"Shizuru? Hi… come on in!"

The older girl looked concerned. "Is Kazuma here?"

"Not at the moment," Sakura began, but Shizuru was already halfway into the living room.

"Hey guys. You know where my bro is?"

Botan put her cards down. "At the rock concert, so I thought,"

"Oh yeah…" Shizuru tried to smile. "Kazuma did mention something like that,"

Keiko squeezed Puu in her arms. "You look really worried,"

"Me?" Shizuru's hands shook slightly as she pulled out a cigarette. "No, just a bad vibe, that's all,"

Sakura suddenly felt cold all over.

Shizuru is really perceptive. Maybe I should check on him…

Kaito glanced sideways at Yana. "Maybe we should escort him home,"

"Good idea," They both stood up.

"Sit down," Genkai ordered without looking up. "You remember the trouble we had with the Doctor, and the other psychic that Sakura fought. Your friend is still confined to a hospital bed. Kuwabara made his choice tonight. We can't split our group further,"

"But he's defenceless right now!" Botan protested. "And Shizuru has a feeling!"

Genkai took a breath. "We'll have to leave this one to Yusuke,"

Sakura couldn't resist rolling her eyes. "Oh, well that's comforting!"

"He's grown up a lot since the tournament, Missy," Genkai shot back. "And he's protective of Kuwabara. Unless he's an absolute dope, he didn't really go to that arcade,"

Keiko and Sakura exchanged an exasperated look. She really had no idea.

"How well do you know him?" Keiko sighed.

While Genkai grappled with the weight of Yusuke's stupidity, Sakura subtly pulled Shizuru towards her bedroom. They sat down on her bed.

Sakura lowered her voice. "You have a bad vibe. Anything in particular?"

Shizuru shook her head. "I just feel like something dangerous is approaching him,"

"I'll look into it," Sakura squeezed her hand. First, she needed to see what her idiot twin was up to…

*~*~*

Flashing lights, peppy themes, clicking and shooting, the arcade was alive. Yusuke had already parked himself at a free console.

"Welcome to Goblin City, where your team of seven heroes must clash iron with the evil Goblin King and restore peace to the town!"

Yusuke mashed at the buttons, getting more frustrated by the minute.

"Damn it! I'm setting this game's records for sucky!"

The Game Over screen appeared, and he nearly slammed his fist into the control pad.

*~*~*

No surprise there. Sakura made a mental note to punch his teeth in when she got the chance.

Tsunagu, show me Kuwabara!

It was just like it had been at the hospital. Instead of a clear connection, there was only unrelenting darkness. White noise filled her ears.

He's in a psychic's territory. That's why I can't see.

Sakura pulled out of the void. The colour drained from her face. Kuwabara needed her. Now.

"I have to go help him," she said in a tight voice.

"What is it? What's going on?" Shizuru asked urgently.

Sakura ran out of the room. "I don't know, but I'm going to find out,"

"Kura? Where are you going?" Keiko called.

Sakura was putting on her shoes in record time. "Kuwabara. I'm going after him,"

Genkai shot a warning look at her. "I told you, we can't split the group more!"

"Sorry, Genkai. I don't have a choice,"

Shizuru pulled Sakura around, forcing the girl to look at her. "Kura, what did you see?"

"I didn't see anything. That's the problem," Sakura explained quickly. "Something's blocking my connection. I'm sure it's a territory, and that means Kuwabara's in danger,"

She was already halfway out the door. Keiko felt a jolt of panic and caught her friend's arm.

"Kura, hold up! It's too dangerous!"

Sakura's eyes were determined. "I know, Keiko. But without Yusuke around, it's up to me,"

She looked around the door at the rest of the group. "I'm sorry everyone. I really am,"

Ignoring the calls from the others, Sakura ran off into the night without a backward glance.

Sea Man's smile widened. "Poor thing. It doesn't seem like any of your friends are going to save you tonight. You were very foolish to move without them. I would've thought you'd all learned your lesson about sticking together. Especially after what happened at the hospital,"

Kuwabara hissed. "What?! Are you the psycho who attacked Kura in the basement?!"

"Of course not!" Sea Man laughed. "I'm not interested in her at all,"

Haruki smiled to himself. As if you could do anything to me, Kuwabara. In any case, you'll never get close enough to try!

The thought of that non-fight made Haruki want to laugh, but he buried it. He needed to concentrate. Controlling a territory remotely like this was taxing on his physical body, and he couldn't risk letting it slip.

Any minute now, someone will show up.

Sea Man looked Kuwabara up and down. "I've been following you, Kuwabara. Waiting for the moment you'd go out alone. Something about you drew my attention. Maybe your naïvete?"

"What is that?" Okubo pointed a shaking finger at the water beast holding Komada. "It can't be real!"

Miyamoto gritted his teeth. "Whatever it is, it's real enough to have our friend!" he yelled.

"I'm glad to know you're interested," Sea Man smirked. "Let me show you how the monster's made,"

Slowly, deliberately, he pulled the Band-Aid off his cut finger. A drop of blood fell to the ground. The boys watched in horror as a smaller water beast emerged.

"My blood mixed with water," Sea Man explained. "The more blood, the bigger the beast. The more moisture, the easier it spreads. That's why I am Sea Man, master of the floods!"

Okubo took a step backwards. "Listen, I've got brothers and sisters to take care of!"

"I know, Okubo," Sea Man replied. "But that honestly doesn't matter. They won't live past the week anyway,"

He grinned at Kuwabara, who was still hunched on the ground.

"Come on, Kuwabara. I'd like to know your opinion. Which of my monsters do you like best? Little, or big? Because that's the one I'm going to kill you with!"

Kuwabara glowered at him. "You're exactly like the doc Urameshi fought," he said scathingly. "A self-righteous nut!"

"Don't you ever lump me in with that freak!" Sea Man snapped. "I have reasons. Good ones!"

"Yes, it's what they've taught you your entire life. The cruelty of man,"

Sensui seemed to know before Mitari had even spoken a single word.

"Early on, they excluded you for some arbitrary cause. And once marked, they all eagerly joined in the ridicule. Circling like buzzards over a lame calf… no-one ever helped you,"

Sensui smiled. "They all took part in humanity's darkest indulgence. Torture,"

Mitari looked up at this strange man in wonder. "Who are you? How do you know all this?"

Years of bullying, knowing only scorn and social isolation… there didn't seem to be a way out. Mitari could hardly believe that a hand was reaching out to him, instead of turning away or knocking him down.

"Come," Sensui replied. "Let me show you the answer,"

Mitari reached out to grasp this thread of hope like a lifeline. "I just… want it all to stop!"

"...I want it to stop," Sea Man whispered. Then his face hardened. "But it never will. That's what he showed me. It's human nature to lie and bully and hurt people,"

He pointed accusingly at Kuwabara. "You're protecting a fallen race. That's why you must die!"

"I hear you. But I'm the one you're after. You can let these friends of mine go, and I'll give you the fight you want," Kuwabara struggled to his feet and prepared for battle. "I accept your challenge!"

Sea Man looked at him with scorn. "You really don't get it. I'm not here to compete. I'm here to wipe out every human being!"

"Not if I have a say in it!" Miyamoto yelled and charged the psychic.

Kuwabara reached for him. "No, stop!"

The smaller water beast leapt in front of Sea Man and punched Miyamoto so hard he was sprawled on the ground.

"You punk!" Kuwabara roared. "Haven't you ever heard of a code?"

He swung his huge foot, kicking the monster into a shower of water droplets. "That's called honour kicking butt!"

Almost immediately, the water monster regenerated before Kuwabara's eyes.

Sea Man roared with laughter. "Hit it all you like! It ALWAYS comes back!"

In a split second, Kuwabara had been punched three times by the creature.

BAM! BAM! BAM!

It fell back, separated into multiple parts and bombarded Kuwabara from all angles. He was knocked backwards, sliding along the ground until he came to rest by a terrified Okubo.

"No!" Okubo closed his eyes and started swinging blindly. The water beast evaded him easily, getting close enough to sucker-punch him in the face.

The larger monster reached out and plucked both Okubo and Miyamoto off the ground. Sea Man watched with delight.

"The four of you combined can't stop him," he taunted. "I won't have any elitist groups bullying me anymore!"

Kuwabara raised himself up to see all three of his friends being restrained by the creature. Sea Man took another step towards him.

"I'll take you out one at a time. I'll make you scream until you see your nasty souls!"

"You're full of it!" Kuwabara snarled. "Saying you've got the right because guys bullied you around? You're just like them now,"

Sea Man looked as though Kuwabara had slapped him. "Don't you say that!"

He pulled out his flick knife and stabbed it into Okubo's leg. "Don't you EVER question my motivations again!"

Kuwabara saw blood pouring from the wound and the anger inside him exploded. Power or no power, he wasn't going to give up easily.

"You haven't lived through my life, made into an outcast at every turn!" Sea Man yelled. "I'm on the good guy's team!"

"Picking on the weak is NEVER good!" Kuwabara was running for him.

"Ha! Then I say we have a war of convictions. What you call injustice, I call getting even!"

BAM!

Another punch stopped Kuwabara from reaching his enemy. Despite his bravado, the situation was becoming more and more desperate.

There's no chance this way. What's wrong with me? Why can't I use my powers?

Try as he might, his spirit energy wasn't even tingling. And nobody had a clue where he was.

Sakura was already saturated by the time she reached the end of her street. It seemed to be raining harder than ever.

Where is he? How am I going to find him?

Talking to Kuwabara or seeing his location through her mind wasn't an option. She ground her teeth together. If only Hiei was here…!

Stop. It's up to you, Sakura.

She leaned up against the wall under a streetlight and forced herself to think rationally. The streets were practically deserted due to the weather, which gave her an idea.

The concert's definitely over by now. Kuwabara was with his friends, and I doubt they would've gotten far before they were ambushed. Heading in the direction of the arena should get me close enough to sense their energy!

It was a start. Sakura began running again.

I'm coming, Kuwabara!

Yusuke would no doubt be furious, and she doubted Kurama would be happy about this either, but it was a price Sakura was more than willing to pay. If it meant saving one of her friends, there was almost nothing she wouldn't do.

"DIMWIT!"

Genkai's furious roar echoed around the entire apartment building.

Yusuke was propelled backwards, out of the front door and onto the balcony where he landed painfully against the barrier wall. Genkai stood over him with an expression of rage on her face. Sparks were practically flying from her eyes.

"What the hell's your problem old lady?!" Yusuke demanded.

"I thought you were leaving the group to look after Kuwabara!" she snapped.

Yusuke rubbed his head. "I said I was going out to the arcade, Miss Senile!"

"How old are you?!" Genkai hissed in disgust. "Kuwabara can't use his powers right now and killers are stalking us. Ergo, you choose to play Pinball!"

"It's his fault! He shouldn't have left me hanging for some stupid pop band!" Yusuke shouted back.

"Besides, he's lost all his juice like you said. Why would those guys waste their time on a non fighter?!"

Genkai crossed her arms. "He hasn't lost it. It just hasn't awakened yet!"

Yusuke sat up a little straighter. Now he was paying attention.

The old woman sighed. "Yusuke, notice your friend's energy the next time you see him. It's like a hatching egg. There is a perfectly good reason his power has been gone this whole time,"

She paused, and explained. "Kuwabara is gifted with unparalleled spirit awareness. I believe his body sensed the coming danger months ago and began a transformation to prepare for it without him consciously knowing. What I fear is if the enemies realise this, he won't be their last target. He will be their first,"

"And what's more," Botan interjected crossly. "Your sister's gone to find him because you weren't here!"

Yusuke went pale. "Kura?! Oh, great! Thanks for telling me so soon!"

He turned on his heel and took off at a sprint.

"Yusuke, wait!" Botan hurried after him.

Weak and bleeding, Kuwabara forced himself to stand upright. "I'm gonna get you…" he panted. "You know that!"

"Why aren't you trying to run?" Sea Man stared in utter disbelief. "If you try to save your friends, you'll die,"

"You can't bury honour," Kuwabara declared.

Sea Man recoiled. This wasn't part of the plan.

Still in the grip of the water beast, Miyamoto piped up. "Hey, it's ok man," he said with a shaky laugh. "We know there's no chance to save us. Just go. One of us should live on, right?"

Kuwabara shook his head. "We've been best friends since our first street brawl. Whether it's living or dying, we're doing it together,"

"You can't mean that!" Sea Man cried. "You're human like us all. No-one would make that kind of sacrifice!"

Nothing about this made sense. Even though he was battered and defenceless, Kuwabara was coming back for more.

"Why are you still trying?" Sea Man demanded. "You're powerless. You can't win!"

Kuwabara kept moving forward relentlessly. "They're my friends!"

Sea Man scowled. He raised his hand. "I'm sick of your tough guy act. Time to finish this!"

A new voice rang out. "Couldn't agree more!"

The battle froze. Sea Man looked around dangerously. "Who's there?!"

Sakura stepped out of the shadows and threw back her hood. "Let them go,"

She's here!

From his hiding spot, Haruki felt that same shiver of delight. She was right there, in front of him…

"Kura? What the hell are you doing here?!" Kuwabara spluttered.

Sea Man's jaw dropped. "It can't be… you're…!"

"I said let them go!" Sakura glared at the psychic, trying not to let her surprise become visible.

She was struck by his delicate features. She'd been expecting someone deranged, someone imposing. She definitely didn't think the psychic would be a teenager.

"Kura, get out of here. It's too dangerous!" Kuwabara called. Sakura shook her head.

Haruki was tingling all over. He longed to touch her satin-soft skin again, to have her cower before him and whisper the answers he was desperate for.

But he couldn't. Not yet. No matter what, he had to keep his territory up.

You have to stick to the plan. Mr Sensui said not to engage. You just have to be patient for a little longer.

Sea Man's shock vanished, replaced by a sneer. "So, you decided to show up. I'm surprised you had the nerve after your encounter with the others,"

"Shut up," Sakura growled. "This is your last warning. Drop those boys, or I'll have to use force,"

In response, Sea Man burst out laughing. "Force? I hope you don't think your fire move is going to work in the rain!"

Sakura narrowed her eyes. "That's far from my only skill,"

"Oh, really?" Sea Man's lip curled. "Then let's see how you handle this!"

He snapped his fingers, and the smaller creature leapt to attack.

"NO!" Kuwabara roared.

Sakura jumped out of the way as the monster slashed at her. "Spirit Snare!"

The bright magenta ring burst out of her hands, heading straight for Sea Man. But his larger creation was far too quick. His tail swung through the air, sending the snare away. Sakura quickly regained control and directed it towards the smaller creature that was heading for her again.

Instead of being trapped, the water beast was simply sliced apart. To Sakura's horror, it began to reform in seconds.

"What is this -?!"

She couldn't finish her sentence before something struck her from behind. Sakura went to retaliate, but a second hit caused her to double over while coughing up blood.

She could hear Sea Man's laughter ringing in her ears, and the shocked reaction from Kuwabara's friends.

"Kura, watch out!" Kuwabara hollered.

Sakura looked up. The water monster was bearing down on her again. She rolled away just in time, and the creature gouged a hole in the concrete where she had been lying a millisecond before.

The creature snarled. It didn't like being outwitted. The only remedy was to destroy the one who had done so. But this time, Sakura was ready.

"Reflection Shield!"

The smaller monster hit her barrier with a sickening crack, but that wasn't all. Sakura was doing something else. The shield looked like it was being contorted… reshaped around the creature…

If I can just keep this thing immobilised, we have a chance!

Sea Man couldn't believe what he was seeing. Neither could Kuwabara. In a few seconds, Sakura had forced her Reflection Shield into a sphere that completely encased the smaller water beast.

From the wall, Haruki nearly lost control of his territory in amazement.

The caged beast pounded on the walls of the prison Sakura had fashioned, but it was useless. He couldn't escape.

Haruki stared in awe, wishing he was watching this with his physical body. How did she do that?! What new power is she hiding?

Sea Man gritted his teeth. Someone else showing up wasn't part of the plan, and she was much stronger than he expected.

"So, you have a defensive move, huh?" Sea Man squeezed more blood from his hand. "Well, two can play that game!"

Sakura didn't want to give him a chance to finish whatever he was trying to do. She threw herself forward to knock him out and destroy his territory - SMACK!

A water tail swung out of nowhere and sent Sakura flying into the wall. She hauled herself up and gave him an acid-filled look. She hadn't counted on the larger monster defending its master.

"Forgot about him, didn't you, Sakura?" Sea Man called. "That's the last mistake you'll be making!"

Kuwabara nearly exploded. "How can you do that to a girl?!"

"Enough of your puffed up ideals," Sea Man scoffed. "That's not what the world is really like. So, your friends keep you going?" He snapped his fingers.

Okubo, Miyamoto and Komada cried out. They were being sucked into the belly of the monster holding them.

"No!" Kuwabara and Sakura yelled.

It was like something out of a nightmare. The three boys were trapped inside this water creation with no discernable way of escape.

"Your motivation is gone, Kuwabara!" Sea Man jeered. "They're going to drown, and you can't get them out!"

The desperation on the boy's faces was the final straw. Sakura jumped up.

"Kuwabara, quick!"

Sea Man grinned at her. "I don't think so. You've interfered quite enough!"

A gigantic wall of water surged up from the ground between Sakura and everyone else. She watched, helpless while Kuwabara charged at the creature.

"Kuwabara, behind you!" Sakura screamed frantically.

He turned, but it was too late. "I forgot about his tail!"

Kuwabara was swallowed up in seconds. Sakura pounded against the wall preventing her from helping.

"No, Kuwabara! NO!" she yelled.

Sea Man looked back at her with a smirk. "It's called survival of the fittest, Miss Urameshi!"

"Stop!" Sakura shrieked. "You can't do this!"

Inside the monster, Sakura could see that Kuwabara was trying to punch his way out. But how could he without his Spirit Sword? That thing seemed impenetrable, and in maybe a minute they'd all drown.

Sea Man got nose-to-nose with Kuwabara's furious and desperate face.

"Don't be stupid. You're in my territory now. You can't escape. It will remain unless I'm knocked out," He looked triumphant. "But you can't reach me now. You have to escape to beat me, and beat me to escape! A real bind!"

The psychic turned back to Sakura, who was also trying to find a way through the water barrier.

"Of course, you might have been able to save them. But you can't get close enough to try. I hope you enjoy watching your friend die!"

"Kuwabara, NO!" Sakura yelled in despair. There had to be something she could do… anything!

Sea Man laughed. Kuwabara's friends had lost consciousness. They couldn't have more than a minute to live, if that.

Kuwabara kept hammering away. He couldn't give up, he had to keep trying.

I can still save them! I just have to act now. I have to get us out, I have to be stronger! What's wrong with me?!

"Your lungs must be filling up with water now," Sea Man teased. "Come on, beg for me to save only your life, and maybe I will. Show me your true self-centredness and beg!"

"Stop it! Please!" Sakura sobbed. "Please, don't kill them!"

"Don't give me those crocodile tears, Miss Urameshi. After all, he's a human. It's what we do!"

He turned away from her, but Sakura raised her hands. That was the last straw. She was going to create this move, even if she had to force herself.

A flash of light streaked across the area. Sea Man paused. Something had cut his cheek.

"Huh?"

Kuwabara was still trying to punch through, but something had changed. His hand was glowing brighter with every blow.

Sakura felt it. Something was happening.

That energy… where is it coming from?

"What is this?" Sea Man breathed. "He's in another dimension; he can't possibly break through… unless…"

"We're in need of a psychic who can slice the Kekkai barrier. Someone who can dispel dimensions…"

He remembered Sensui's words. Was Kuwabara the one they were looking for?

"But I'm not ready for this!"

Sakura was transfixed at the scene. She'd never felt such power from Kuwabara. It was greater than even the Trial Sword.

Focus! This is your chance, you have to act now!

Sakura reached inside herself, clawing for all the energy she had to give. There was no time for hesitation.

Come on, body. Don't let me down!

She might not be able to communicate with the others, but she could at least let someone know where they were...

"SPIRIT FLAME!"

A flame erupted, spiralling up into the air. Sakura fell back onto the ground in shock. Not only from the fact that she'd done it, but the colour didn't look right.

My fire… what's that weird colour in the middle?

She didn't have time to look closer. The fire was immediately swallowed up in a blinding flash of light. Something had appeared in Kuwabara's hand. Sea Man shielded his eyes, but was pushed backwards.

Sakura looked over at Kuwabara. Her jaw dropped.

Is that…is that his Spirit Sword?! But it looks different!

Whatever it was, Kuwabara swung it with all his might. A crack appeared at Sea Man's feet and blood sprayed from his chest. He collapsed to his knees.

"He broke it… he broke my territory… he swung his sword across two dimensions…"

The barrier holding Sakura at bay dissolved before her eyes. The water beast exploded, freeing all trapped within.

Yusuke skidded to a halt. "What the?"

That wasn't a demon. That was something else entirely.

"Tremendous energy!" Botan looked at the demon compass. It was spiralling off the charts.

Yusuke changed directions. "Come on!"

Coughing and spluttering, Kuwabara rose and stared at the blade he now held.

"Kuwabara?!" Sakura hurried over. "Are you alright?!"

He didn't answer. He seemed to be in shock at what he'd just done. Instead of waiting, Sakura raced to check on the other three boys.

Please, let them be alive!

She nearly collapsed with relief. They were all breathing. It was nothing short of a miracle. Now, to deal with that psychic.

The boy was several metres away, lying face down in a pool of blood. Sakura knelt beside him, not really knowing what to do. Sea Man managed to raise himself up slightly and stared at her.

His expression took Sakura's breath away.

Those bright blue eyes were wide with fear. No, it was more than that. This boy was terrified, consumed by fear. He was silently screaming. He was begging to be saved, for someone to reach out to him.

She'd seen that look once before, in another pair of piercing blue eyes.

"Out of the way, Kura," a furious voice ordered.

Sakura whipped around. Kuwabara was towering over the boy with a look of rage.

Sea Man flinched. He's going to kill me!

"Your life is in my hands now," Kuwabara breathed, cracking his knuckles. "And I'd like nothing more than to give you just what you deserve. After all you've done, you deserve to DIE!"

He raised his fist and swung it towards the boy.

Sakura dived for him. "Kuwabara, wait!"

"But I can't!" Instead of striking, Kuwabara took hold of Sea Man's arm and heaved him upright.

Sea Man didn't understand. "You can't?" he repeated.

Kuwabara looked at his three unconscious friends with a sigh of resignation. "Boy it's going to be a long walk home…"

"Kuwabara, let me help!" Sakura reached out. "I can carry him,"

"I got this, Kura," he grunted.

Sakura shook her head. "No," she said firmly. "I'll take at least one of them. Lift!"

Miyamoto rose into the air while Kuwabara set about gathering up Komada and Okubo on his back.

"Come on, let's go back to my place," Sakura said quickly. "Everyone's waiting. It's not far,"

Slowly, painfully, they began the journey.

"You're actually saving me?" Sea Man whispered. "But I just tried to murder you and your friends. How can you want to help me?"

Kuwabara was straining under the weight, and his injuries, but he kept moving. "When men do what they're supposed to, it's not always about what they want!"

"Plus, we have some questions for you, kid," Sakura added. "Now stay still, you're hurt bad,"

Haruki watched them leave from the shadows.

The Spirit Flame… it was definitely different than last time. I felt the faintest hint of something else below the surface. I'm sure I did!

Sensui would want to be informed of this immediately, but he wanted to watch Sakura as long as he possibly could, and she was almost out of sight.

Once again, Sakura had come back from an impossible situation, but Technique Zero would take care of that problem.

It won't be long now.

He'd have her right where he wanted her, and nobody would be able to stop him. Just like Sensui promised.

Yusuke blinked through the rain and realised he was back at his apartment building. "What is this?" he asked Botan. "Why are we back here?"

"Well, we tracked the signal," Botan checked the compass. "Maybe they made it back?"

A voice floated down from the upper floors. "Yusuke, Botan!"

They looked up. Sakura was waving at them from the balcony.

"Kura?!" Yusuke felt relief flooding through him. "What's going on?"

"It's Kuwabara!" she said frantically. "Quick!"

Botan and Yusuke raced up the stairs two at a time, but what they found upstairs shocked them.

Kuwabara was sprawled on the ground outside the Urameshi apartment underneath the unconscious bodies of his three friends. Sakura was kneeling beside a young boy they didn't recognise. She was soaking wet, and was pressing her hoodie into the stranger's chest in an attempt to staunch his severe bleeding.

"Kuwabara!" Yusuke ran over. "Damn it, what the hell happened out there?"

His giant friend opened one exhausted eye. "I… saved them all…" he managed to wheeze out. "All by myself, Urameshi!"

"But who's energy was that?!" Yusuke demanded.

No response. Kuwabara had lost consciousness. Yusuke turned to his twin for answers, but she was far more concerned with tending to the badly injured boy.

"Kura, what's this?"

She paused. "It's a long story,"

A.N. That was... a lot. And from here, it's only going to get more intense.

I would absolutely love to know what you all thought of this chapter, and what you think might happen next, because Sensui is about to make his next move...and so will Haruki. Kurama might have his suspicions, but will that be enough to prevent Haruki from getting to Sakura?

Chapter 17 will be released by October 14th. I'm finally going back to work next week for the first time in nearly four months, (yay, lockdown is ending!) so my schedule is about to be hectic, but I'm not stopping now.

Make sure you follow, favourite, and leave a review to keep me writing. Sakura and I love you all!

Next chapter: Some shocking truths are revealed, setting everyone on a collision course from which they might not be able to return.