A.N. I'm back everyone. Hope you all had a lovely Christmas. I do owe you all an explanation as to why I went MIA, because it certainly wasn't planned.

The skeleton version is that just when I thought the family drama couldn't get worse, it did! And a month before Christmas! I won't go into the gory details because this is a fanfiction and not a diary, but long story short, my father has stirred up trouble with my elder brother, who then behaved in an unforgivable way to our mother, and now it doesn't look like things will ever be the same with him again. I'm pretty much all my mother has now, and she's been seriously struggling the past month in the fallout of my brother's idiocy. She needed my support, and I didn't hesitate to take care of her. As much as I love writing this story and seriously care for all of you, my mother's wellbeing comes first to me.

And then, to make things better, the new Covid Omicron variant has decided to finally make an appearance at my workplace! YAY! By some miracle I've managed to not be infected thus far (double vaxxed, mask wearing, sanitising constantly and social distancing) but that means I've had to work a lot more while my co-workers are in isolation. It sucks, but it is what it is.

Anyway, I've managed to get things together for now, so the next chapter won't be a month away, I swear.

Hope you all can forgive me. I honestly never set out to make you wait so long.

DCDGojira/Starrat/Wolfs Child: :D

Ghost of Magic: It's not easy, writing all this stuff, but it's all for a reason. And yes, Raizen is back!

hw0134160: I hate it too, but it was the only way forward. Hopefully you'll understand why when we're done. They'll find out this chapter!

Hina714: He's definitely got a few screws loose. Hope you like this chapter. We're really into the meat of the book now.

DeadlyWriter: You might have some idea of what he's planning in this chapter. But if not, definitely the next chapter.
Haruki definitely hated Sakura at the Dark Tournament, but the more he's learned about her, that's morphed into a deranged obsession.

Nyac Silver Fang: All the answers to those questions are coming! I will finish this story to the very end!

foreveradreamerinlife: hey there, and welcome! Your review brought such joy to me on a really bad day, so thankyou. It means more than I can say when people connect with my work.

princesskakashi287: It certainly will be!

Guest B Martinez/Guest: Here we go. Enjoy!

Chapter 21

Usually the sight of Spirit World was calming to Koenma, but not this time. He trudged through the halls towards his office in his infant form. His heart, already weighed down with guilt over Sensui, felt even heavier in light of what had happened. But there was no time to feel sorry for himself. Every moment counted from here.

Koenma paused at the end of the hallway and attempted to smooth his face so as not to betray his inner turmoil. He was about to enter the main administration office. If he panicked, everyone else would too.

He stepped through the door and the flurry of activity ceased almost instantly. But Koenma didn't acknowledge the ogres looking fearfully at him over the mounds of paperwork. He simply trotted past them all towards his office and closed the door. Finally, a few minutes of peace and quiet.

Unfortunately, someone was already in there waiting for him.

"Koenma sir. You're back!"

"Yes, Ogre. I'm sure you know what's been happening,"

"I've…heard talk," Jorge was tearfully dabbing at his streaming eyes. "But I refuse to believe office rumours until I get confirmation from you!"

Koenma opened his mouth, but Jorge hadn't stopped to draw breath. "They're saying that Miss Sakura was kidnapped by Sensui," he looked up at Koenma desperately. "Oh sir, please tell me that it's not true!"

Koenma resisted the urge to sigh. "It's true, Ogre," he began, but Jorge had already thrown himself to the ground in hysterics.

"No! Not Miss Sakura! How? Why?!"

"Kurama's suspicion was correct," Koenma swallowed hard. "Master Shin's student Haruki is alive and working with Sensui. He was the one who took her. But nobody is sure why,"

In truth, there was a horrible suspicion lurking at the back of Koenma's mind, but for now he couldn't afford to dwell on it.

Jorge sobbed harder than ever. "But Miss Sakura's so nice to me. She always calls me by name. Oh sir, what can we do?"

"That's why I'm here, Ogre," Koenma said gravely. "I have to make preparations,"

Jorge sat up in amazement. "You have a plan?" he asked hopefully.

"Yes," Koenma sat down at his desk. "But first I need you to do something for me,"

Yusuke and Hiei traded the first blow simultaneously. Time froze for just a moment before they sprang apart. Neither hesitated; they both charged in and began exchanging punches faster than the speed of light. Energy sparks sizzled with each hit.

Bam! Bam! Bam!

Yusuke was dealt three rapid uppercuts to the jaw. He retaliated, but Hiei dodged every one of them.

Bam! Another blow to Yusuke's face. Bam! Bam! Bam! A series of hits in the stomach, one after the other.

The final one sent Yusuke spiralling through the air. He landed on the dirt and glared up at Hiei, who hadn't even broken a sweat.

Yusuke's temper exploded. He launched himself forward and sank his fist into Hiei's smug face. The momentary surprise was all Yusuke needed to follow up with a powerful kick that caused Hiei to go flying.

Like Yusuke before him, Hiei didn't falter. The two were already barrelling at each other again.

Punch. Punch. Punch. Punch.

Every single one of Yusuke's movements were powered by pent-up rage. For every hit Hiei made, he responded in kind.

Punch. Punch. Punch. Punch.

It seemed to go on for hours. At last, Yusuke blocked an attack from Hiei, who retaliated by swinging his other hand. Yusuke blocked as well. The two stared at each other with passion and fury, locked in a stalemate with neither willing to give up. Their combined energy swelled around them, destroying the nearby landscape. Yusuke and Hiei were forced away from each other.

They slid along the ground and stood staring each other down. Yusuke was panting from the effort, but Hiei was calm as ever. And after several tense seconds, Hiei laughed softly.

Yusuke blinked. He hadn't expected that. But stranger things were still to come. Hiei observed the gash on his forearm before bringing it to his mouth and licking up the blood.

"Well that's mildly disgusting…" Yusuke muttered.

Hiei looked up. "You rose to the challenge," he deadpanned. "It seems you haven't lost your spirit power, you just needed a kick in the ass,"

Yusuke froze for a second as the weight of what Hiei had done smacked him in the head. "You mean you stalled me here just to see how strong I am?!" He spluttered.

Hiei rolled his eyes."You really are a simple child, aren't you? You still don't get it,"

He spat the blood out and turned back to the boy with a deadly calm expression. "Do you remember when you fought Toguro in the tournament and we let you think that Kura had been killed?"

Yusuke stared at him without a word. Hiei looked back towards Mushiyori City, where the gateway was widening every moment.

"Back then, you lacked the motivation to reach your potential, and Toguro went out of his way to bring it out. Sensui… just wants you dead,"

Hiei reached down and pulled his robe back on. "Harness your own power if you hope to beat him. If you take anything from our scrimmage, take that. So go. Save the Living World. Or don't. I don't really care. Either way I'm fine with the outcome,"

Yusuke looked at his shoes, hands on hips. He started giggling uncontrollably.

"What are you laughing about?" Hiei snapped.

"You're so full of crap! 'I don't care…'" Yusuke chortled. "You've been rooting for me, you did all this to help me survive! Damn, I can't wait to see the look on Kura's face…"

He grinned triumphantly. "I told everyone you'd come back to rescue us when we needed you the most, you big softie," Yusuke was struggling to control his laughter. "Or should I say little softie?"

Hiei looked at Yusuke in utter disgust. I should've slit your throat when I had the chance.

At last, Yusuke calmed down. He wiped the tears of mirth from his eyes and looked back at Hiei.

"Really, thank you Hiei," he said with surprising sincerity. "I was needing that kick in the ass,"

Hiei snorted and began to leave.

"Hey, where do you think you're going?" Yusuke called after him. The fire demon stopped, but didn't turn around.

"Now that your little secret's out…well, there's no reason…" Yusuke sighed. He might as well say it straight.

"Look, what I'm trying to say is that I could really use your help on this one. Kuwabara could really use your help on this one,"

"But I hate Kuwabara," Hiei said immediately. He was walking away again while muttering to himself. "You do them one favour and they think you're their best friend. This is why I couldn't care less if their entire species is swallowed up!"

Yusuke gave a small smile. "If you hate our kind so much, I know of a videotape that might interest you," he offered.

Hiei stopped dead in his tracks. "What tape would that be?" he asked sharply.

Yusuke shrugged. "Oh, just a little snuff film you may have heard of called Chapter Black," his tone had turned casual. "Now that I think of it, Kurama did say you tried to get your bandaged hands on it. It's out of print, but Sensui's got a copy. I could get it for you,"

Hiei frowned, but Yusuke saw a hint of intrigue in his eyes. "The most forbidden contraband in all of Spirit World? You think they'll let you walk out with it?"

"Think about it for a sec," Yusuke reasoned. "In all the rush of the foiled apocalypse, that stupid tape will be the last thing Spirit World intelligence is thinking about,"

Nobody had ordered him to retrieve it at any point. Yusuke knew that Sakura would likely be furious with him, but who said she needed to know?

Hiei looked Yusuke up and down with something resembling admiration. "You're quite clever when you put your mind to mischief," he said at last, but suddenly, he tensed up slightly.

"Hey…"

Both Yusuke and Hiei looked over. Something was coming. They felt it before they saw the two monstrous demons flying towards them.

"Friends of yours?" Hiei enquired.

Yusuke shook his head. "I assumed they were yours,"

Seconds later, the demons had landed in front of the boys. They were gigantic apparitions with saliva dripping from their fangs.

"Woah, somebody needs a breath mint," Yusuke commented.

The sickly green demon growled. "We're new to town. We've come to plunder your puny world,"

The purple one stepped forward hungrily. "As you can tell, we're hungry in more ways than one. Show us your women and human flesh depository!"

Yusuke and Hiei looked up at the two monsters as if they were no more than a pair of oddly-coloured birds.

"Then this means that Mushiyori City has advanced to stage three," Hiei mused. "I believe these demons are technically classified as weak and ugly,"

Such an observation did not sit well with the unwelcome visitors. The green one stomped his giant foot in a temper. "Who are you calling ugly?!" he snarled.

"Get a load of this one!" His purple companion pointed derisively at Hiei. "He doesn't even have a single beauty wart on his face!"

Hiei's eyes narrowed ever so slightly. "Hey Yusuke. I think we finally stumbled across a very good reason for me to help," he said with a sideways look at the Spirit Detective. "If we don't defeat Sensui, we'll be overrun with these vermin disgraces to the demon race. And I would not enjoy that,"

"Yeah, me neither," Yusuke agreed.

The green demon swung his fist towards Yusuke. "Well, I'm gonna enjoy eating you!"

It was over before it began. A single knockback from Yusuke and Hiei was enough to disintegrate the intruders into nothingness. Before the screams died down, the boys had already turned and begun walking away.

"As much as I can't stand the humans, I think I loathe tourists even more," Hiei said mildly.

Jorge couldn't believe his ears. "But Koenma sir! I can't do that!" he was aghast.

"You can, and you will," Koenma glared at him. "It's on my authority, so you won't have any trouble,"

"But what about the protocols? The regulations? Nobody is supposed to retrieve such things except in the most dire of circumstances!"

Koenma had lost patience. "And that's exactly what this is, you moron!" he snapped. "The entire living world could be wiped out! Don't you realise that?!"

Jorge whimpered. "I…I…very well, Mr Koenma. For Miss Sakura,"

"Good," Koenma stood up. "I'll be in the throne room when you're done,"

"The throne room?" Jorge gasped. "You can't mean…!"

"Yes, that's right. I need to see my father,"

Koenma swam out of the room as the ogre started to panic again. There was no time to lose, especially now that Sensui had Kuwabara's power.

Kuwabara…Sakura…I let you down.

The thought of what might be happening to the two of them hammered away at Koenma all the way to the throne room. They were both in this mess partly due to his failings.

If only I'd checked the records sooner…maybe we could have at least prevented Sakura being taken…

Kurama hadn't even looked at him since reading that note in Sakura's bedroom. Not that Koenma could blame the fox demon.

Sakura, I'm sorry. I can't believe I was so careless.

He should've made sure that every soul was accounted for after the Dark Tournament. But in the madness of Yusuke defeating Toguro followed by the Netherworld attack so quickly afterwards, an unforgivable error had been made. One that Sakura was now paying the price for.

We know why Sensui captured Kuwabara, but what does he plan to do with Sakura?

The most obvious explanation was to use her as bait or a distraction. But in light of everything else, that seemed like overkill. No, there had to be some other reason. Something involving Haruki.

Strangely enough, the thought of Master Shin's missing student didn't daunt Koenma. On the contrary, it only made him more determined.

And just in time. The door to the throne room was in his line of sight.

Hold on. I'm going to make this right. I swear, I'll do whatever it takes.

Another bump in the ground scraped Kuwabara's face, and he suppressed a groan. How long had he been dragged through the cave like this? It felt like at least an hour, but he couldn't be sure.

What the hell is taking Urameshi so long? I thought he would be here by now, especially since that freakshow got Kura…

Kuwabara's stomach churned. Oh God, Kura. I'm sorry. I should've done something.

Even with his new sword, he'd been powerless to stop Scarface from taking her away. And the truth of that was unbearable to contemplate.

How the heck is he still alive? And what's he going to do to her? Urameshi, wherever you are, you'd better hurry!

"Game Master, we've arrived," Sensui said over his shoulder.

Amanuma's face lit up. He bounded ahead of the others to stand in the centre. "So you want me to wait for them here?" he said eagerly.

Kuwabara raised his head slightly and looked around. They'd reached a gigantic cavern, deep inside the cave. It was dimly lit, but he could make out the stalactites and at least four other tunnels leading off into the darkness.

"That's right, Game Master," Sensui confirmed. "This is where I want you to set up. Do you have the necessary items?"

The boy nodded rapidly. He was rocking back and forth on his heels in anticipation. "Sure do. See?"

Amanuma pointed to a small gaming console. A game cartridge was already plugged in, but it was too dark for Kuwabara to make out the title.

"Good," Sensui smiled. "You remember what to do, don't you? You won't let me down?"

"Of course I do," Amanuma almost groaned. "We talked about it a million times!"

Sensui flashed a conspiratorial look at Gourmet. "Excellent, Game Master. I'm sure you'll do exactly what must be done. Ghost will inform you when it's time to open your territory,"

"You got it, Mr Sensui," Amanuma giggled. "Ooh, this'll be awesome!"

Sensui nodded once more at Gourmet, who immediately began dragging Kuwabara along towards one of the tunnels.

"Wait, what's the deal? You're just gonna leave the kid behind?" Kuwabara snapped. "What the hell is wrong with you?!"

Amanuma only snorted. He was far too engrossed in his handheld game to reply.

Sensui didn't even turn around. "Game Master has his own role to fulfil tonight, Kuwabara. Just as you do,"

Gourmet licked his lips. "Can't wait,"

"Not a chance you freak! Once I'm finished with you, you'll be eating through a straw!"

Gourmet kicked Kuwabara in the ribs. "You've got a big mouth for someone so stupid," he scoffed. "Maybe we should've knocked you out instead of the girl,"

A snarl ripped through Kuwabara's teeth. The image of Sakura lying helpless in Scarface's arms would surely haunt him forever.

"Just what do you psychos want with Kura?" Kuwabara demanded. "Her powers are totally different from mine!"

"Like Ghost said, that is none of your concern," Sensui said coldly.

"The hell it ain't!" Kuwabara yelled back. "Where did that lunatic take her?! He's supposed to be dead!"

Amanuma looked over the top of his handheld game with interest. "What's the big deal? Is she your girlfriend or something?"

"What?!" Kuwabara nearly choked. "No way! She's dating Kurama!"

Amanuma shrugged and went back to his game. "Huh. Could've fooled me. Anyway, you can chill out. Ghost just wants to talk to her,"

"After what he did at the Dark Tournament? I don't think so!" Kuwabara shouted. "What's he doing to her now?!"

Sensui stood over Kuwabara, looking thoroughly entertained. "Ghost isn't planning to kill her, if that's what you mean," he laughed. "She's far too valuable for such a fate,"

"You might be laughing now, but just you wait, Sensui!" Kuwabara glared up at the former Spirit Detective. "Urameshi and the others will make you pay for ever touching her!"

"Keep dreaming," Gourmet laughed. "They got no chance in hell,"

With a chuckle, Sensui slipped his hands in his pockets. "Come, Gourmet. We mustn't keep Itsuki waiting,"

Kuwabara did not go quietly. Amanuma could hear him raging and storming for a considerable amount of time before it finally faded into an eerie silence.

"Oh good, it's quiet," Amanuma cranked the volume on his game. He took a seat next to the inactive console on the ground while laughing to himself.

He still had a few hours to kill before the rest of the Spirit Detective squad arrived. A few hours before playtime.

Haruki stopped walking. There was light emanating around the next corner, which could only mean one thing. He'd arrived at Sensui's lair.

Haruki reached up and carefully swung Sakura back into his arms. He grinned down at her with a kind of crazed joy. It wasn't easy to make out her face and body in the dark, but the sound of her soft breathing was more than enough for him. It was…exhilarating to hear.

Haruki leaned down. "Hey honey," he whispered in her ear. "We made it,"

She didn't respond.

"Still asleep?" he laughed quietly. "That's fair enough. But it's ok now, honey. You'll understand everything soon,"

She didn't respond, but that was fine. They'd have plenty of time to talk when she woke up.

Haruki kept his eyes on Sakura as he stepped into the lair with her. He wanted to see the exact moment she entered his world. He wanted to see the light spill over her milky skin and illuminate her shiny black hair…

"Ah, Ghost. You're back," Itsuki was still in the boat. The portal loomed above him, but his gaze was fixed on the girl in Haruki's arms.

"My my," Itsuki sounded pleasantly surprised. "You have a guest!"

Haruki could barely take his eyes off Sakura long enough to reply. "That's right, Itsuki. Everything went exactly as Mr Sensui planned,"

"Of course it did," Itsuki chuckled. "Bring her over, won't you?"

Haruki didn't reply. Instead, he tightened his hold on Sakura.

"It's alright, Ghost. I won't touch her," Itsuki simpered. "I simply want a closer look at the young lady,"

Haruki hesitated, but after a moment he took the first step towards the water so Itsuki could see her properly.

"Oh my…" Itsuki's eyes swept over Sakura's limp body. "I never expected this,"

The boy's eyes narrowed slightly. "What do you mean?"

"She's far more powerful than I anticipated," Itsuki replied. "And such beauty. I'm reminded of a porcelain doll,"

Haruki brushed a strand of hair from Sakura's face. Nothing should obscure such a lovely visage. "She's more than that, Itsuki. And I'm going to learn her secrets tonight,"

Itsuki's smile widened. "You were correct, Ghost. Sakura Urameshi is indeed a rare and delicate flower," Finally content, he laughed and closed his eyes. "Go on now, you should ensure everything is ready before Sensui gets here,"

"Of course. I'll be back in a minute,"

Haruki returned the smile and shifted Sakura so she was more nestled into his chest, then brought his lips close to her ear.

"Come on honey," he whispered. "You've kept me waiting long enough,"

She didn't respond. Haruki turned on his heel and headed to the passageway. It was time to get his little porcelain doll all set up in the den.

Itsuki watched him go with amusement. It's easy to see why the boy became so obsessed with her. I couldn't have created a more perfect specimen.

Hey Kura? You getting this?

Nothing.

Yusuke frowned. He'd been expecting to hear from his sister the moment Sniper's territory expired, but it hadn't happened.

Earth to Kura! Hello? It's Yusuke! Where are you?

Silence.

"Huh. That's weird," Yusuke muttered. "I can't get hold of Kura,"

Hiei raised an eyebrow. "Hmm?"

"Yeah. That's not like her. She usually answers as soon as I talk…" Yusuke only looked concerned for a second before shrugging it off with a smile. "We're probably just too far away. No biggie,"

"Perhaps…" Hiei mused, but he didn't seem convinced.

It was another few minutes of walking in the late afternoon air before Yusuke felt brave enough to speak again.

"She'll be happy to see you. Kura, I mean. She's missed you,"

Hiei's indifference twitched for a moment. "Even if that were true, what makes you think I care?"

Yusuke smiled faintly. "What you said before. You called her Kura,"

He saw the fire demon's eyes widen slightly before going back into his usual scowl. "I hardly see how that means anything,"

"Come on, Hiei. You know Kura doesn't just let anyone call her by that pet name," Yusuke grinned. "And I can't say I've heard you use it til now. That's gotta mean something, right?"

Hiei didn't say anything, and for once Yusuke took the hint. Pushing the friendship at this point was not wise. Except for one more thing.

"So…you reckon you could use that third eye to see where the others are?" Yusuke asked tentatively.

"The fool realises at last," Hiei sighed. He removed his bandana and closed his eyes. Yusuke watched the Jagan come to life with a faint glow. There was more silence while Hiei looked.

"...So, do you see them?" Yusuke piped up after a moment.

Hiei's eyes snapped open. He turned to Yusuke with a deadly look. Though it was far from omnipotent, his Jagan had shown him enough.

"Yes," he growled. "And we have to move now,"

Yusuke blinked. "Huh? What's wrong?"

Hiei replaced the white fabric over his forehead. "I'm not sure. But we should cross paths if we keep heading in this direction. Hurry!"

Yusuke could see the barely concealed worry in Hiei's eyes, and he felt a stab of fear. But the next moment, it had vanished. Hiei whirled around and sped off.

"Hey, wait up!" Yusuke hurried after him. "Hiei, what did you see?!"

No answer. Intense worry began to bubble up inside Yusuke.

Has something else happened? Kura…you better be ok!

Sensui stepped into the main cavern and smiled at the sight awaiting him. Itsuki remained in the boat, and above him the portal had grown even wider. And there was a new addition to the decor: a small couch, television set and tape player.

"Mr Sensui, you've returned," Itsuki didn't move, but he looked quietly delighted.

"I see Ghost already made it back," Sensui smirked. "He must have taken a shortcut,"

His faithful companion nodded. "Yes sir. The boy arrived not too long ago and very kindly set everything up for you," Itsuki indicated the half-hidden entrance to Haruki's den. "I'm sure he'll be back in a moment for further instructions,"

"Very good, Itsuki. And what about his lovely guest?"

The teal-haired demon smiled. "Oh, you have nothing to worry about there, Mr Sensui. The young lady was still quite unresponsive when Ghost brought her in," he chuckled. "The Doctor's elixir is working perfectly. But you'll be able to speak with her once she's ready,"

"Excellent," Sensui laughed back. "So tell me, Itsuki. Is the girl enough for you to work with?"

Itsuki closed his eyes. "Yes, I believe she will be. Especially once you and Ghost are finished with her," he smirked. "I never expected a mere human female to possess such strength of mind. It was almost seductive,"

"But Mr Itsuki…" Sensui's evil grin grew wider. "She's not human, remember?"

"That's right,"

Sensui glanced over to see Haruki exiting the passageway alone. He'd removed his coat and was breathing heavily from excitement.

"Ah, there you are my boy," Sensui smiled lazily. "What's the latest on Miss Urameshi?"

Haruki didn't get a chance to answer. The sound of irate yelling signalled Gourmet's arrival with Kuwabara literally in tow.

The late afternoon began fading into dusk. Kurama avoided looking into the light even though it spilled across his face and illuminated his hair. Usually he would appreciate the beauty of sunset, as it signalled the imminent return of night. But not now. The late hour only emphasised to him exactly how long his hana had been held captive for, along with Kuwabara.

They'll keep Kuwabara safe until the tunnel is complete, which should be another two days. But what is that monster doing to my Kura?

Kurama's fists clenched. He couldn't bear the thought.

My love, I'm coming for you. I won't let you down again.

"She's strong, Kurama," a gravelly voice said quietly. "You know that,"

Genkai trotted up beside Kurama as they walked in silence towards the cave. His face was hard. The old woman knew better than to try and reassure him that everything would be alright, but she had to say something. Especially considering the inevitable moment when Yusuke learned what had happened to his twin.

"You should brace yourself for when we meet up with Yusuke," Genkai muttered with her eyes fixed straight ahead. "He's not going to take this well,"

Kurama didn't reply, but Genkai knew. And she wasn't going to let him continue like this.

"I want you to listen very carefully, Kurama," Genkai put a hand on his arm and made him look at her.

"Whatever he says, whatever he does, this was not your fault. None of us could have predicted this,"

Kurama swallowed hard. If only Genkai knew…

If I had at least told Yusuke of my suspicions, would it have made a difference?

Probably. But he hadn't, and now the worst-case scenario had happened. Whatever reaction Yusuke had to his failures, it was what he deserved.

Suddenly, Botan stopped walking and pointed. "Over there!"

Everyone looked. A shirtless Yusuke was striding up the path in the opposite direction. But he wasn't alone.

"And who's that with…?" Botan gasped. "Oh my, I don't believe it. Hiei really did come back!"

Yusuke had also noticed them. "That was fast," he blinked. "Mustn't have run into traffic. Or had any traffic running after them,"

Hiei was quietly observing the group, almost like a headcount. He hadn't said anything since racing off earlier. Then his scowl deepened, and he broke into a run. Yusuke followed quickly.

What's his deal?

Genkai took a breath. "Like I said, we're going to need all the help we can get,"

"Agreed," Kurama said softly, not wanting to outwardly display his relief that Hiei had returned. And judging by the look on the fire demon's face, he likely knew the dire situation already.

Yusuke realised something wasn't right the closer he got. He came to a halt in front of everyone.

"All present and accounted for," Genkai said with a small smile.

"Hey guys, you got here quicker than I thought," Yusuke looked at everyone individually. "Did you take the train or something?"

Botan nodded. "Y-yes," she said in a trembling voice while glancing at Genkai in fear. How in the world were they going to break the terrible truth to Yusuke?

"At least you made it. We should…wait…" Yusuke's voice trailed off. He'd just finished performing his mental headcount. Someone was missing.

Yusuke saw the look exchanged between Kurama and Hiei, and he paused. "Hey, where's Kura?"

No one said anything, which only heightened his sense of alarm.

"You all gone deaf or something?" Yusuke snapped. "Where's Kura?"

Genkai sighed and turned to Kurama. "You want me to tell him?"

"No," Kurama shook his head. "It's my responsibility,"

He couldn't let anyone else take the brunt of Yusuke's reaction. He needed to own up to his failures.

Yusuke's heart seemed to clench. "What's going on, Kurama? Why isn't she here?"

"I'm sorry, Yusuke," Kurama's voice was barely above a whisper. "Sensui has her,"

Haruki watched the scene and couldn't help laughing to himself. Gourmet dragged the teenager in while Kuwabara called him an extensive and impressive list of names.

"Shut up!" Gourmet gave him another kick. While Kuwabara dealt with the pain, Gourmet approached Sensui with a smile.

"Looks like we're all here, boss,"

Sensui smirked at Haruki. "Well done, Gourmet. Ghost, you were saying?"

"She's still out cold, Mr Sensui. But it's been a few hours; the drugs should start to wear off soon,"

"There's no rush, my boy," Sensui said calmly. "We have all the time we need. However…" his face darkened. "I do hope you've taken better precautions this time. Another escape attempt would be most tedious,"

Haruki bowed his head. "Trust me, Mr Sensui," he giggled. "She's not going anywhere,"

"What does…that mean?" Kuwabara wheezed out. "What…did you…do?"

Everyone except Itsuki looked at Kuwabara with derision. He was still groaning face-down on the cave floor. Clearly, the accumulated kicks coupled with being dragged through the cave was taking its toll.

Following Sensui's nod of approval, Haruki smiled and took a step towards Kuwabara. "Hello, Kuwabara. It's certainly been a while,"

"Yusuke?" Botan asked hesitantly. "Did you hear him?"

Yusuke heard, but didn't comprehend. This had to be a joke. A stupid prank his sister was pulling. There was no way Kurama was telling the truth.

"Great joke, guys!" Yusuke forced a laugh. "You really had me for a second there. Come on Kura, quit hiding!"

Botan shook her head. Tears filled her eyes again. "I'm sorry, Yusuke. It's true,"

"But…but how?" Yusuke stammered while looking around wildly. "They all left in the truck with Kuwabara except for Sniper, and he was following me!"

"It was Ghost, Mr Urameshi," Mitari explained. "He was the one who went after her at the hospital too. Master Genkai told me that you all know him from the Dark Tournament,"

"What?!" Yusuke cried. "What the hell are you talking about?!"

Genkai looked deadly serious. "You remember Sakyo's bodyguard?"

The colour drained from Yusuke's face. "No…"

Kuwabara saw Haruki approaching from the corner of his eye. There was only one question on his mind.

"Scarface!" he growled. "Where's Kura?"

"Oh, that's right. Scarface…I'd almost forgotten that's what you called me," Haruki laughed again and touched the burn scar above his eye. "Fair enough, I suppose,"

"Cut the crap!" Kuwabara snarled. "What did you do with Kura?"

Haruki shook his head. "You don't need to worry about that, Kuwabara. You're not going to get anywhere near her,"

Kuwabara raised himself up as much as he possibly could and gave Haruki a murderous look. "I don't know how the hell you're still alive, but if you've so much as touched her-!"

"I've only done what was necessary!" Haruki snapped. "That's all I've ever done!"

"Kura's gotten stronger, Scarface!" Kuwabara shouted. "Whatever you're planning, she's not gonna take this lying down. You messed with the wrong girl!"

BAM!

Haruki's fist sank into Kuwabara's stomach, knocking him flat on his back.

"You don't have the first clue about her!" Haruki roared. "You don't understand ANYTHING!"

"Haruki!" Sensui stepped forward and caught the boy's shoulder. "Calm yourself,"

Kuwabara and Haruki glared at each other with pure hatred.

"You have more important things to worry about," Sensui continued. "You've come too far. Don't lose focus now,"

For once in his life, Yusuke had absolutely nothing to say. He stared at Genkai in shocked disbelief.

"He's alive?" Yusuke breathed. "That scarred freak from the tournament is still walking around? And he's been working with Sensui this whole time?"

He'd almost forgotten about Scarface…well, Haruki. He'd barely given him a thought since Sakura and Kurama had returned from Genkai's and shared what they'd discovered. How he had been the lone survivor of Master Shin's class.

I thought he'd died when the stadium collapsed. But he got out somehow?

"I'm afraid so," Botan was tearful. "None of us had any idea,"

Yusuke looked desperately at everyone, his eyes silently pleading for someone to say it wasn't true.

"I'm…so sorry Yusuke," Kurama whispered. "I tried, but I wasn't quick enough,"

Yusuke's anger was reaching boiling point. Haruki had done so much damage in the tournament. Breaking Sakura's collarbone, dragging her to Sakyo…but this was on a totally different level.

He attacked her in the basement…and now he's got her…oh God…

"How could you let this happen?" Yusuke said in a choked whisper. "I told you to keep her safe,"

Kurama looked away. His throat was too tight to speak.

"You were supposed to protect Kura," Yusuke snapped. "So what went wrong, Fox Boy?"

Botan immediately stepped between them. "Yusuke, it happened so fast. Nobody could have-"

"No, Botan. He's right," Kurama muttered. "I should've voiced my thoughts earlier,"

Genkai frowned. "What are you talking about?"

"You…you knew?" Yusuke gasped. "You knew he was alive and you didn't say anything?!"

"I…had suspicions, nothing more," Kurama admitted. "After we discovered what happened to Kura at the hospital, it was a strong possibility that Haruki was the assailant. Koenma was investigating whether his soul was accounted for, but discovered the truth too late,"

Yusuke clenched his fists. "So let me get this straight," he began. "Basically, you're saying that you thought he was alive, asked that stupid toddler to check it out, and didn't even think to mention it to me?!"

Silence.

"After the tournament, after everything…I trusted you to look after her. How could you let that psycho take her?! HOW?!"

Before anyone could answer, Yusuke lunged for Kurama.

At last, Haruki turned to face his master. "Yes, Mr Sensui," he breathed. "What do you require of me?"

"Go back to your guest," Sensui grinned. "Inform me when she's ready to talk,"

"Yes sir," Haruki nodded. "I'll let you know immediately,"

"Remember what we discussed. Be gentle. She's unlikely to reveal anything right away, so start by breaking down the walls, so to speak,"

Haruki bowed. "Understood, sir. Your instructions will be followed,"

For a moment, Kuwabara forgot how to breathe. What were they talking about? What did they want Sakura to reveal? But Haruki was already walking away.

"Urameshi and Kurama are coming, freak show! And they'll smash your face in!" Kuwabara bellowed after him. "You're a dead man walking!"

"Let them try," Haruki replied over his shoulder. "I welcome it,"

He stepped into the passageway that would lead him back to the den.

Nearly time to wake up, honey.

Yusuke swung his fist towards Kurama's face, but the fox demon didn't make a single move to defend himself.

BAM!

Yusuke was thrown backwards with Hiei's sword at his throat again. "Don't be an idiot, Detective,"

Yusuke didn't even flinch. "Shut it Hiei!" In one swift move, he'd hurled Hiei off him and turned back to Kurama.

Genkai moved faster than anyone expected. With a flick of her hand, Yusuke was swept off his feet and hung upside down in mid air.

"Kaito?" she said pointedly.

"Yes, Master Genkai,"

A flash of ultraviolet light, that momentary chill. Kaito's territory had expanded. Now no violence could be committed. Satisfied, Genkai released Yusuke and he came crashing down head first.

"WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT FOR YOU OLD HAG?!"

"Stop and think for a second, dimwit!" Genkai shot back. "Your anger is misplaced. Sensui did this; not Kurama!"

Yusuke sat up while rubbing his head and fighting back tears. Genkai was right, but his heart ached. Why had Sensui taken Sakura? And what the hell was Haruki doing to her now?

"Every minute, that tunnel gets wider," Genkai went on. "We don't have time to start arguing amongst ourselves,"

Yusuke gave her a look filled with acid. "It was bad enough that they got Kuwabara, but now that maniac has my sister! What the heck am I meant to do?!"

"We go after them," Hiei snorted. "Or have you forgotten what you were supposed to be doing in the first place?"

"Of course not! I just…GAH!" Yusuke slammed his fists into the ground. He couldn't hold his tears back anymore and started crying.

Botan knelt beside Yusuke and wrapped her arms around him. There was nothing she could say to ease his torment.

"I wanted to be certain before broaching the subject. That was a grave mistake," Kurama's voice cracked. "She was only out of my sight for a moment…but no more,"

Kurama's dangerously cold tone made Yusuke look up at him with wide eyes.

It was happening again. That magnetising pull towards the roaring presence of Yoko. That overwhelming urge to punish those who had stolen his treasure. That monster had no place to hide. He'd tear the place apart until he discovered wherever Haruki was keeping his flower.

"I failed to keep Kura safe, but I will not fail twice," Kurama growled. "Whatever it may take, I will find her,"

Botan wiped her face and looked Yusuke dead in the eye. "Yusuke, it's ok to be angry. We're all heartbroken. But Sensui did this to throw you off guard. Don't let it happen!"

He stared at Botan. Her devastated face was getting through to him more than any words could.

"Your sister is counting on you," Botan said desperately. "So is Kuwabara, and the whole living world. They need you to stay focused. You still have a chance to save them all. Please!"

She's right. I can't fall apart now!

Yusuke looked up at the rest of the group. They were all worried about Sakura. Genkai. Botan. Kaito. Yana. Even Hiei. And Kurama was in as much pain as he was, if not more.

His anger at Kurama was ebbing away. The only one responsible was Sensui. He was the one behind it all.

Kura's strong. He reminded himself. She's survived so much. You have to pull yourself together. It's the only way to stop this freak and get them back!

Gritting his teeth, Yusuke swiped a hand across his eyes and forced himself to stand.

"Ok, I'm ready,"

The white-haired stranger had vanished, and his calming presence had gone with him. But in the darkness, something else appeared.

A garden, one with a single sakura flower sprouting from the ground. Sakura sat down on the soft grass and watched it grow. It reached her eye level, then a gentle breeze stirred up. The petals were blown off, almost dancing in a circle around her.

"It's so beautiful," Sakura breathed. Everywhere the petals landed, more flowers began to bloom. Lisianthus, carnations, daisies, ranunculus, peonies, tulips, roses of all colours, and many more that she couldn't name.

Sakura inhaled the scent. It was indescribable. Only one person could be responsible for this, and she could hear him coming up behind her.

"Kurama?" Sakura went to turn around, but his arms had already enfolded her. It was the safest place on earth. She never wanted him to let go.

"Yes, my love," he whispered. "There isn't much time, so please listen to me,"

Sakura nodded. "Anything,"

"Good," he stroked her hair. "I'm coming, but I need you to hold on until I get there,"

Sakura closed her eyes as a tear escaped. "I don't know if I can. I've never been so scared,"

Haruki was on the other side, along with Sensui. She didn't even want to imagine what plans they had in store for her.

Kurama pushed her away gently and cupped her face. "I believe in you," he said quietly. "You're strong, Kura. Don't forget how far you've come,"

The breeze was becoming stronger. The scene was fading. It was time to go.

"I love you Kura. I'll be there soon,"

There was no chance to reply. Sakura felt a strong force pulling her away from him even as she reached out…

That scent…it's familiar…

Sakura's eyes fluttered open, but at first her vision was so cloudy it hardly made a difference. She went to raise her head, only to immediately flop back down when it started spinning again.

It's so dark. Where am I this time?

The beautiful garden in her dreams had gone. Her whole body ached. Unfamiliar fabrics rubbed against her skin, and Sakura realised that she was lying on something much softer than the car trunk from before.

Sakura attempted to roll over and get up, but quickly realised it was useless. Her hands were tied behind her back, and from the feel of it, also tethered to something else.

Oh God…what's going on?

She blinked a few times in an attempt to clear her vision. Slowly, Sakura began to make out the room she was in, but what she saw made her wish she hadn't woken up at all.

It was a small underground cavern, no doubt part of Demon's Door Cave. She was lying on a bed covered with a satin duvet. The bed was surrounded by an array of flowers, scented candles and piles of books.

What the hell is this? He can't honestly think that I-!

"Hey honey. You're awake,"

Haruki stepped out of the shadows and smiled at her. Sakura shrank back in fear. He was walking towards the bed with his hand outstretched.

Her heart started hammering against her chest. What's he going to do to me?!

Haruki sat down on the edge of the bed and cupped her face. Sakura whimpered, but it was lost in the fabric tied around her mouth.

"Don't be scared, honey," Haruki whispered. "It's ok now, I promise,"

Sakura turned away, but Haruki wasn't deterred. Instead, he leaned closer and whispered in her ear.

"Do you know how long I've been waiting for this moment? Longer than you can imagine,"

Sakura's fear turned to anger, and she shook him off. Growling, Haruki seized her shoulders and pinned them into the mattress. He heard her gasp in fright. Good. A little fear wouldn't be a bad thing.

"This will be much easier if you do exactly what we say. Got it honey?" he hissed. "Otherwise, it's going to be a long night. Because we have a lot to talk about,"

Sakura stared up at him. Haruki's eyes were crazed, but in control. He might be following Sensui's orders, but he knew exactly what he was doing.

There was no choice. Sakura nodded slowly to indicate she understood.

"Glad to hear it," Haruki released his grip and started stroking through her hair, which was now hanging loose. "Wouldn't want to see my little porcelain doll get hurt, would we?"

Sakura forced herself to lie still, but her heart was pounding again. She'd just noticed something else in the room that made her blood turn to ice.

Oh God…what's he done? He's out of his mind. Kurama…Yusuke…please hurry!

A.N. And we'll leave it there for now! :P

Chapter 22 will be released by Feb 4th. Please make sure you follow/favourite so you don't miss the next update, and take a minute to leave me a review on this one!

Next Chapter: A game of life and death begins, and Sakura learns more than she ever bargained for.