A.N. What does one do when there's an unexplored timeskip in an anime? Why, you fill it with one of the movies!

That's right, as promised, we're doing Poltergeist Report. I won't lie, this has been a real challenge to write, mainly because Funimation has not dubbed this film. In the interest of preserving my sanity, I've chosen to stick with the Japanese sub version for this one. Should Funimation ever give Poltergeist Report the proper dub it deserves, I'll come back and rewrite these chapters. Yes, it's going to be split across a few instalments. Partly the reason I decided to add this to the main story and not a bonus chapter. Anyway, hope you enjoy!

DCD Gojira: Glad you liked it. Hope you like this one too!

Ghost of Magic: Yep, strong Sakura is the best, and she'll be developing in some pretty incredible ways this next arc. You'll see. As for whether Sensui actually cares about Haruki, you'll find out when he does. Just keep reading.

You're not alone, I definitely try to write in a way that suits both English and Japanese.

Hina714: I seriously wish Kurama was real, along with a number of other anime boys. Le sigh.

I've always loved the concept of Kintsugi. It just speaks to me and I thought it described Sakura extremely well. Don't worry, I'm going to see this story through to the very end and you'll be able to read them without delay as many times as you like!

NightWolfRUNNER: I feel all those emotions and more while writing as well. But knowing you and others respond in this was brings more joy than I can express adequately. I'm going to continue, I promise.

Sakura-chan: Those teachers really are the worst. I'd love to see Koro-sensei give them their comeuppance!

I don't want to spoil anything for the House of Four Dimensions, but I can tell you that neither twin is going to enjoy their time in that place.

I absolutely love your concept for Sakura's demon form, and I can reveal that you are on the right track!

hw0134160: I can't stand them either. Some people are only alive because it's illegal to hunt them. And I can promise that no fangirl will be getting to Sakura as long as Kurama has any say in the matter.

I don't mind saying that Haruki has been a gift of a character to me, and he has a lot to do going forward. Some you might guess, some will be a complete surprise (I hope!). Enjoy this chapter hun. You're the greatest.

Sarah: The thought of Chapter Black is enough to make me shudder. I know I'd never be able to watch it. There's a lot of character development coming up for Sakura, and Scarface's story is far from over...

Enjoy this chapter. Don't forget to follow/favourite and review!

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 4

Tuesday. Wednesday. Thursday. The first week back at school dragged on, until finally it was Friday, the day of Sakura's next date with Kurama.

The thought of spending more alone time with him had been about the only thing keeping Sakura going throughout this long week. Since returning from Genkai's, her mind had been spinning with the reveal of Haruki's identity. Despite her promise not to blame herself, there was still a small patch of guilt deep inside Sakura's heart.

If only I'd realised. Would things have turned out differently if I had?

Every night after waking from the nightmares, Sakura lay awake and thought about that million-dollar question, but she'd never know for sure. He was dead, and that was that.

Though she still dreamed of the Dark Tournament, the tokage and Toguro's gang, the mysterious figure with white hair hadn't reappeared since that first night. Who was he? What had he meant by great danger? And how did he seem to know who she was?

She had absolutely no idea.

Put it out of mind for now, Sakura. Like Genkai said, there's nothing you can do right now. Focus on what's happening in front of you. Like tonight, for instance!

Sakura was so excited, she felt as though a swarm of butterflies had taken up residence in her stomach. After school, she'd go home, shower, and get changed before Kurama came to pick her up. Their first date had been so magical. She couldn't begin to guess what he might have planned for tonight.

For what felt like the millionth time that day, Sakura stole another glance at the clock over the chalkboard. It meant looking in the direction of Mr Akashi, but at least he'd think she was paying attention.

Only 9:55am. Sakura tried not to let the disappointment show on her face.

Looking at the clock won't make it go faster. She told herself. Five minutes and you don't have to look at Rat Face until next week.

It couldn't come soon enough. Judging from the glares Akashi was sending at her every now and then, his ego hadn't recovered from Keiko's trick on the first day back.

Sakura resisted the urge to roll her eyes. After coming face to face with all those opponents in the Dark Tournament, Akashi and Iwamoto were about as physically threatening as a pair of angry kittens. Still, they were a slight threat. Thanks to seeing Yusuke's memories when he was a ghost, she knew they wanted her out of the school. She couldn't disregard that, especially with high school entrance exams coming up sooner than she cared to admit -

Sakura…

Botan?

Sakura sat up at attention in her seat. Her friend's voice sounded weak, desperate.

Botan, what's the matter?

I need… your help…the Spirit World…

Botan? Botan?!

There was no reply. Sakura felt the colour drain from her face, but thankfully the bell rang at just that moment. She turned to Keiko, sitting at the desk beside her.

"Kura, what's happened? You're white as a ghost!"

Akashi was eyeing them both suspiciously, so Sakura tapped her head and spoke through telepathy while quickly packing up her things.

I just heard from Botan, and it sounds like something is seriously wrong.

Botan?

Keiko gasped, but quickly composed herself. The girls raced out of the room.

"We need to find Yusuke," Keiko scanned the corridor. "Where did he go now?"

Sakura scoffed. "I'll give you three guesses,"

With a shared (exasperated) nod, they made a beeline for the roof.

Yusuke stretched and yawned. His stomach growled. "Man, I'm hungry," he grumbled to himself. "Maybe I should just eat my lunch now,"

He leaned back against the wall and closed his eyes, only for them to fly open when a drop of water splashed on his forehead.

Is that rain? But there's not a cloud in the sky?

A shadow fell across him. Yusuke looked up quickly. His mouth fell open. "Botan?!"

The grim reaper was falling head first from the sky. Her pink kimono was torn and dirty. She seemed to be unconscious, soaking wet and covered in scratches.

Yusuke jumped to his feet and moved quickly, catching her in his arms.

"What happened to you, Botan?" Yusuke was frantic. "Talk to me! Botan!?"

She stirred. "T-the Spirit World is…" Her eyes widened with panic. "The Spirit World! The Spirit World!"

"The Spirit World is what?" Yusuke asked urgently. "Botan?"

With great effort, Botan raised her head and clung to Yusuke's jacket with the last of her strength. "Go to Kasane Shrine, and find… Hinageshi,"

"What?" Yusuke didn't have a clue what that meant.

Damn it, where's Kura when you need her?!

Botan was fading into unconsciousness again. "Please, Yusuke…" and with that, she fainted dead away.

"Botan!" Yusuke cried.

Just then, the door to the rooftop opened, revealing exactly who Yusuke wanted to see.

"See, Keiko? Told you he'd - Botan!"

Sakura caught sight of Botan in Yusuke's arms. She gasped at the same time as Keiko, and both girls ran over.

"Oh God, Botan!"

"What happened to her?"

Yusuke shook his head. "I don't know what's going on. Keiko, can you take Botan and get her to Genkai's temple?"

Keiko looked afraid, but nodded. "Of course, but how?"

Yusuke blinked, and turned to his sister for help. Sakura thought for a second. This wasn't going to be easy. If anybody saw Botan in such a state, they'd have a real job trying to explain it. And how were they going to get all the way to Genkai's?

"First we get out of here without anyone seeing. Everyone will be back in class any minute now, so we'll wait for a second. I'll get Kuwabara to meet us out the front," Sakura said darkly.

Kuwabara? You hear me?

Ahh! Even through telepathy, she could feel his heart rate rising dramatically. Sheesh, Kura. I'm still not used to you doing that!

Sorry pal, but this is an emergency. Meet us out the front ASAP!

Why? What's going on? Is it another case?

I don't know for sure, but I'd say it is. Hurry, we need you!

They waited a moment for everyone to go back into class, then the three teens raced out of the school with Botan using one of Yusuke's escape routes. Kuwabara joined them about a second later, and yelped at the sight awaiting him.

"Botan?! Urameshi, what the heck is going on?!"

Sakura hushed him. "Kuwabara, settle down. We don't know what the deal is, but panicking isn't going to help,"

She turned to everyone else. "Come on, let's go back to our apartment. It's the closest. And even if Mother's there, odds are she'll be asleep,"

"And then?" Yusuke asked impatiently.

Sakura glared. "I'll tell you when we get there. Move it!"

Thankfully, Atsuko was still out, meaning the apartment was empty when the teens arrived with Botan. Yusuke laid her down on the couch, then turned to Sakura.

"Keiko," Sakura said in a low voice. "You call Shizuru and see if she can come drive Botan to Genkai's,"

Keiko ran to the phone, and Yusuke nodded in approval.

"Right. Kuwabara, come with me. Kura, you need to tell Kurama what's happened. See if you can find Hiei, then go straight to Genkai's, got it? I'll meet you there,"

Sakura gripped her twin's arm. "Yusuke, before you dash off, tell us. Did Botan say anything at all?"

"Botan said something's happened to Spirit World," Yusuke said rather shakily. "And she told me to go to Kasane Shrine and find someone called Hinageshi,"

Sakura took a breath. "Should I come along? This could be dangerous,"

Yusuke shook his head. "I'll be fine. Stay with the girls. If something goes wrong, you need to keep them safe,"

"Ok," Sakura nodded and tapped her head. "Keep in contact. I'll rally the rest of the troops,"

He gave her a quick hug. "See you soon,"

"Be careful," Sakura whispered in his ear, and then Yusuke left with Kuwabara. Sakura sat down next to Botan and stroked her hair. She still didn't move.

We'll find a way to help you Botan. I swear it.

"Kura?" Keiko came back into the living room. "Shizuru's on her way. She'll be here in about ten minutes… where's Yusuke? And Kuwabara?"

"They've gone to somewhere called Kasane Shrine," Sakura said without looking up. "I don't know anything more than that, but I need to let Kurama know what's happened, so give me a second, alright?"

Keiko nodded. "I'll call Genkai and tell her we're coming,"

"Thanks, Keiko,"

Sakura headed into her bedroom to change out of her uniform. If an enemy showed up, there was no way she'd fight in that flimsy skirt.

Kurama? Can you hear me?

His warm, gentle voice replied almost instantly. Yes, Kura. Are you alright?

I'm fine, but Botan isn't.

Sakura took a second. She had to say it.

I have a feeling that our date night is going to be postponed…

Yusuke and Kuwabara had sprinted almost the entire way to the temple. They were now feet from the entrance.

"So, what's at Kasane Shrine?" Kuwabara panted.

Yusuke glanced at him. "I don't know!"

"You don't know?!" Kuwabara stopped and grabbed the front of Yusuke's shirt. "You didn't find out any details?"

Yusuke slapped his hand away. "There was no time for that!" he snapped.

"You're useless," Kuwabara snorted. "You know, I would've found out everything from start to -"

A terrified scream sounded from the other side of the wall. The boys paused. Someone was in trouble.

"Over there," Yusuke muttered.

Without hesitation, he ran to the wall and used the unsuspecting Kuwabara as a trampoline to launch himself over the top.

Kuwabara recovered from the shock and scowled. "You bastard!"

But Yusuke had bigger things to worry about. In the temple grounds, a small red-haired girl was running in terror from a swarm of apparitions.

"What do you want?" she cried. "Get away from me!"

An apparition slashed at her with a sharp blade. The girl ducked around his hand and ran in the other direction, but she was being tailed closely.

Yusuke came running up the stairs and took a flying leap straight at the demons. He knocked four of them out in the blink of an eye. He landed on the ground and raised his hand towards the next wave.

"Shotgun!"

The girl had managed to seek refuge behind a statue and she watched Yusuke's move in awe. But then, another apparition appeared in front of her. She didn't even have time to react before his gigantic hand fastened around her throat and lifted her off the ground.

"That's it, you're dead!"

Kuwabara sprung out of seemingly nowhere and slammed his own fist into the apparition. The monster's arm was sliced clean off, and the girl went flying backwards. She landed safely on the ground and Kuwabara was immediately at her side.

"Don't worry," he smirked. "You're safe now,"

Far from being reassured, the girl screamed and dived out of the way. It didn't take long for Kuwabara to figure out why. Two demons were behind him, and descending rapidly with their blades. He jumped aside a split second before contact..

Kuwabara got to his feet and prepared for battle. "Spirit Sword!"

None of the apparitions stood a chance after that. Between Yusuke's powerful fists and Kuwabara's sword, they were all eliminated in a few seconds.

Now that the demons were no longer a threat, Yusuke realised they each had a strange cross mark on their foreheads. But then he blinked and the marks vanished.

Before he could look more closely, Yusuke spotted the as-yet-unnamed girl crouching behind another statue.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

The girl nodded and slowly stood up. "Y-yes. You two are investigators from the Spirit World, aren't you?"

"That's right!" Kuwabara puffed out his chest proudly. "And who are you?"

"I'm Hinageshi," the girl said shyly. "Guide to the Spirit World,"

Sakura knew she'd never stop owing Shizuru for driving them all the way to Genkai's. Thanks to her, they arrived at the estate without incident in record time. As much as she wanted to stay, Shizuru had to return to the city. Keiko swore they'd keep her informed, and away she went.

Sakura looked up at the steep climb leading to Genkai's estate. "There's only one way we can get her up there. Lift!"

Sakura concentrated, and Botan slowly rose into the air with telekinesis. But something was wrong. It was a much harder job than she'd ever expected.

I feel like I'm wrestling against water that keeps slipping out of my hands. What the hell is going on?

"Did you manage to find Hiei?" Keiko asked Sakura as they made their way up the slope.

Sakura shook her head. "Stubborn little shrimp. He's closed off the connection with my mind so I couldn't talk to him. Kurama said he'd keep an eye out, but I know we'll only find Hiei if he wants us to,"

Keiko was right beside her. "When will Kurama get here?"

"Soon, I hope," Sakura was beginning to sweat as Botan's strange energy fought her telekinesis. "He said he'd go to the Spirit World and see if he could find anything out first,"

Keiko could see Sakura was straining, so didn't ask any more questions. Instead, she looked back at their unconscious friend.

"We're almost there, Botan," Keiko murmured. The girls continued up the gigantic staircase in silence.

"You made it," Genkai was waiting for them at the top. "Has there been any improvement in Botan's condition?"

Keiko shook her head tearfully. "None whatsoever,"

"Hmm," Genkai frowned at the sight. "Bring her inside,"

The girls followed Genkai into the main room where Yukina waited with a futon all set up.

"Oh, Botan!" Yukina's eyes misted over. "Please, bring her here and I'll see if I can help,"

Sakura levitated Botan over the futon and gently released her control. Yukina took over, and Sakura finally sank to the ground in exhaustion.

"Genkai, do you feel that?" Sakura panted. "Botan's energy is doing something strange. I don't know how to explain it, but…"

The old woman nodded. "You're right, Missy. Botan's energy feels… corrupted,"

"This doesn't make any sense," Sakura wiped the sweat from her forehead. "In the tournament, I lifted those stone slabs from the arena without much trouble. But Botan was by far the most difficult thing I've ever controlled with my telekinesis. Genkai, what could have happened to her?"

Genkai observed Yukina's attempts to wake Botan with a grim expression on her face.

"At this point, your guess is as good as mine, Kura," she muttered. "This is not something I've encountered before,"

Seconds ticked by into minutes, then an hour passed. Nothing Yukina did had any effect on Botan.

Sakura kept glancing out the window, waiting for Kurama to arrive. She was growing impatient. What if something happened to him?

Time moves differently in the Spirit World. Sakura reminded herself. Kurama can take care of himself. Worry about Botan. Maybe this Hinageshi can help.

Nobody said a word. The only thing anyone could do for the time being was wait.

The sun was beginning to set when Sakura finally heard footsteps outside. Without even thinking to check that it wasn't an enemy, Sakura flew out the door and straight into Yusuke's arms before he had a chance to say anything.

"Yusuke! Kuwabara! I'm so glad you're back!"

"Sheesh, Kura. Settle down. It's all good,"

Sakura's heart pounded, but there was a twinge of disappointment that Kurama hadn't arrived first. However, Yusuke and Kuwabara did have another redhead in tow.

"You must be Hinageshi?" Sakura guessed. "I'm Sakura, Yusuke's twin,"

"I've filled her in," Yusuke interrupted. "She's up to speed,"

The red-haired girl nodded. "That's right. Nice to meet you, Sakura. Where's Botan?"

"Yeah, how is she?" Yusuke looked deadly serious.

"No change," Sakura admitted. "Come on,"

She led them into the house, throwing another glance behind her in the hope that Kurama would appear. But he didn't.

"I couldn't get in touch with Hiei, but Kurama's gone to Spirit World to try and find out what's going on,"

"Well, that's something. Hopefully Fox Boy can give us something to work with," Yusuke grumbled.

The shoji screen slid open. Botan was still lying on the futon. She was feverish and sleeping fitfully. Yukina and Keiko had apparently left the room, but Genkai was maintaining her vigil.

"Botan!" Hinageshi dropped to her knees beside the Grim Reaper. "What is this? What could have happened?"

Sakura frowned. "Well, we were kind of hoping that you'd be the one to tell us,"

Hinageshi looked distressed. "I'm… I'm not sure," she admitted. "Something serious must have happened to the Spirit World,"

Keiko returned, carrying a bowl of water. She handed a wet washcloth to Sakura, who placed it on Botan's brow.

"Genkai, what's going on with Botan?" Yusuke asked.

"It's in the balance," Genkai muttered. "But beyond that, I can't say,"

"Hinageshi," Sakura asked quietly. "I'm sorry to be so blunt, but would you mind explaining who you are? Botan just told us to find you before she passed out,"

Hinageshi glanced up. "I'm a Spirit World Guide, the only one who resides in the Living World. King Enma's idea, originally. The logic was that if some catastrophe ever came upon the realm, at least one person from there would be able to assist the earth's Spirit Detective," her face fell. "I guess I just never thought it would actually happen,"

Sakura nodded slowly. "Makes sense, I suppose,"

Just then, a familiar energy signal arrived in the vicinity. Sakura's attention spiked.

"Kurama!"

She hurried to the shoji screen as it opened and Kurama stepped inside. He looked at Sakura without a word, then around the room.

Kura, brace yourself.

Her heart skipped a beat. What's happened? Just tell us!

"The Spirit World… was gone. It was covered by water,"

Everyone gasped in shock.

"But… but why?" Kuwabara squeaked.

Sakura stared up at Kurama. "What's going on?"

"Some immeasurably strong power must have gained control," Kurama said quietly. His face and voice remained calm, but Sakura could tell how shaken he was.

Genkai stood up. "This way,"

Sakura and Yusuke exchanged a look, then followed Genkai into her training room where they could talk more openly without disturbing Botan.

"What could have the power to take over Spirit World, Hinageshi?" Genkai asked.

Hinageshi hesitated. "There aren't many entities that would be able to do it. Not that I know of, anyway," She looked up at Kurama. "Did you see or hear anything else? Anything at all?"

"When I was there, some phantoms wearing the pattern of a cross on their foreheads were looking for something,"

Sakura was taken aback. She'd seen the mark of a cross only once before at the Dark Tournament, on Toya's hood. But he didn't seem the type to try and overpower the Spirit World. He was far too honourable.

"Cross…" Hinageshi looked thoughtful, then comprehension dawned. "It must have been the Netherworld!"

Everyone turned to look at her. "The Netherworld?" Yusuke and Sakura said at the same time.

"Those phantoms were demons, controlled by the Netherworld," Hinageshi explained. "Their symbol is that cross on their foreheads,"

Kuwabara raised his hand. "Hold it. What is this Netherworld? As far as I know, there's just the Living World, the Spirit World and the Demon World,"

"Well, we guides refer to them as Ningenkai, Raekai and Makai, but sure," Hinageshi was rummaging around in her robes for something. "Ah, here it is,"

She pulled out a guide book not unlike Botan's, and flipped it open to the middle. "Let me just find it…"

"Raekai, Spirit World, it all means the same thing," Sakura leaned forward on her knees. "Hinageshi, just say whatever you need to,"

Hinageshi threw Sakura a grateful look. "To begin with, above the human world lies the spirit world. The two of them are in balance," She read. "And the Netherworld was originally above and in balance with the Demon World. Then, several thousand years ago, the Netherworld began a war with the Spirit World in order to gain possession of the Living World. Exactly how we were able to defeat them is unknown, but King Enma did finally destroy the Netherworld. He banished King Yakumo and his men to the cold darkness of space,"

Sakura's head was spinning. She opened her mouth to respond, but Yusuke beat her to it.

"So how did the Netherworld come back into existence?"

Hinageshi shrugged. "I don't think it has. It seems far more likely that somehow Yakumo's people have escaped their prison, and are trying to create a new world for themselves using Spirit World as the foundation,"

"If the Netherworld is responsible for this disturbance, it could become a very dangerous situation," Genkai growled. "Even with our powers, we cannot repel them alone,"

"Give me a break, Grandma!" Yusuke snorted. "I just won the Dark Tournament!"

He stood up. "See ya. I'm heading off to Spirit World to beat them all,"

"Spirit Snare!"

Without even looking, Sakura sent her trap towards her brother. It encircled him, and she dragged him back against the wall.

"What the…? What the hell is this, you damn brat?!" Yusuke snapped.

Sakura glared at him. "I don't care if you beat Toguro. You are not racing off into this without planning first. Got it?"

She could hear everyone else in the room snickering behind her. Yusuke's face went red with anger.

"If I can beat Toguro at his best, I can take care of those Netherworld jerks in my sleep, Squirt! What makes you think I can't?"

Sakura raised an eyebrow. "Do you want the short list, or the long one? Suffice it to say, that's the second time I've gotten you with my Spirit Snare since we got home," she deadpanned. "We're going to handle this rationally, Yusuke. Deal with it,"

He gritted his teeth. "Ok, fine! Now let me loose!"

Sakura released him, and leaned up against Kurama's chest. He smiled at her.

Seems like the one opponent Yusuke can never defeat is you, my love.

Sakura's breathing fell into sync with his heartbeat. I don't know about that, but I'm not about to let him do something so stupid without any resistance.

Outside, someone else was watching from a nearby roof amid the howling wind. Hiei had overheard the entire conversation thanks to the Jagan gleaming on his forehead.

"The Netherworld," he muttered. "In any case, it has nothing to do with me,"

The detective and his sister could easily handle it. Hiei couldn't see any reason to get involved now. There would be no benefit to him at all.

He turned and leapt to the nearest tree, fully intending to leave. But something gave him pause.

Sensui looked over at his assistant. "Is there a reason you're smiling, Itsuki?"

"Indeed," Itsuki replied from his position in the boat. "It seems the Netherworld have recently taken control of Spirit World,"

A giant grin spread across Sensui's face. "How can you tell?"

"Thanks to Uraotoko, I have seen the chaos," Itsuki smiled. "This will keep the Spirit Detective busy for a while. Not to mention that the Netherworld will mask any instability that the initial phase of the tunnel might cause. This is the perfect opportunity for you, Mr Sensui,"

Sensui turned to Haruki. "This is very good news for us, Haruki. We must take advantage of this time we've gained. Are you ready?"

"I'm more than willing to intensify my training, Mr Sensui," Haruki said eagerly.

"I'm glad to hear it, my boy," Sensui closed his eyes. "You are making great strides. But there is much more to be done,"

"What do you require of me, sir?"

Sensui looked the boy in the eye. "I must recruit more psychics to our divine cause. Starting tomorrow,"

"Yes sir," Haruki nodded. "I'll help any way that I can,"

Sensui shook his head. "The best way you can help is to stay here and continue training, Haruki. This is something I must do alone,"

Haruki opened his mouth to protest, but relented. "As you wish, Mr Sensui. I'll keep preparing on my own. And the closer I am to the tunnel's epicentre, the stronger I will become. Just like you said,"

"Very good, my boy," Sensui smiled. "You may go now. I think you've done enough for today,"

Haruki bowed slightly, then headed back through the winding cave where he had set up a room of sorts for himself.

The tape was all ready for him to watch, exactly where he'd left off before training. He turned the television on, and the frozen image of Sakura appeared.

Haruki sat down on his futon and pressed play. The action restarted at the moment where Sakura had burned through Akumu's hair with her powerful Spirit Flame, the moment where she was standing in the remains of the Shadow Cage.

He watched her wipe the ash from her face. "You all thought the Spirit Blast was my strongest attack," Sakura said. "But you were dead wrong. I've been saving this one for an emergency,"

Haruki paused the tape and traced the outline of her face.

"Soon, Sakura," he whispered. "Soon I will learn what you truly are. I don't care what I have to do. I will uncover your secrets,"

As the footage began to roll again, Haruki fingered the lighter he always kept in his pocket now. It was the only thing left of his former master.

See, Mr Sakyo? Do you see me, wherever you are? I'm making your dream come true. I won't let you down.

"Yukina is here?"

Kuwabara jumped for joy and burst out the door of the training room. "Yukina!" he dashed off to the right.

Keiko facepalmed. "Kuwabara, she's with Botan,"

"Yukina!" he doubled back and raced off to the left.

Sakura giggled. "Love really makes us lose all sense of self, doesn't it?"

"I quite agree," Kurama smiled and kissed her cheek. Yusuke grumbled to himself. Kurama got to his feet and offered a hand to Sakura.

Hiei is near. I'll find him. You go check on Botan.

Sakura nodded. Sure. I bet he's here because of Yukina.

Kuwabara burst through the door where Yukina knelt beside Botan and struck a pose. "Yukina! How are you, sweet pea?"

The ice maiden turned around. She was distraught, just barely holding back tears. After hours of trying everything she knew, there was no change to Botan's condition.

"Kazuma…" Yukina sniffled. "I'm sorry. I'm glad to see you, but… why is Botan…?"

Kuwabara's face fell. "An unhappy face like that doesn't suit you, Yukina," he said sadly, before puffing out his chest and giving her a smouldering look. "But don't worry. I, Kazuma Kuwabara, am on it,"

Yukina gave a small smile. Sakura bit her tongue to keep from laughing. This was too hilarious for her to take seriously.

"Soon, we'll all be smiling again," Kuwabara got to Yukina's level and grasped her tiny hands. "That's a man's promise,"

"Are you alright?" Yukina looked at Kuwabara's blushing face. "Your temperature is going up and up!"

Kuwabara looked deep into her eyes. "That's the power of love, baby!"

Yukina started to giggle. She glanced behind Kuwabara at Sakura.

He's so hard to understand sometimes, but he's so funny!

Sakura chuckled, then turned quickly as Keiko came past with more ice for Botan. She could feel Hiei's presence in the garden, even though he was trying to suppress his energy.

Sakura stepped back, away from the group and scanned the darkness. She spotted Hiei standing beside a bird bath.

"Yukina…" he murmured. Just as she suspected. Hiei was watching his sister.

"Why don't you tell Yukina that you are her brother, Hiei?" Kurama's voice came from behind him.

Hiei looked around irritably, and saw the fox demon leaning casually against the verandah.

"I don't need your advice," Hiei scowled.

Sakura sidled over. "I thought you'd come, Short Stack," she grinned.

"What do you want?" Hiei growled, but there was the hint of a smile playing around his lips.

Sakura raised a brow. "Nice to see you too, Hiei,"

Kurama chuckled softly and took a few steps forward. "Hiei, you saw the condition of the Spirit World too. I know you did. This is no ordinary event,"

Hiei didn't reply, or even turn around. "How would I know?" he scoffed, and with a final glance at Sakura and Yukina, he vanished from sight.

Sakura sighed. "He sure is a stubborn one,"

"Indeed," Kurama stroked a hand down her face. "How is Botan?"

"The same," Sakura sighed again. "Like I said, it looks like our date will be a raincheck,"

In response, Kurama leaned down and gave Sakura a slow, passionate kiss.

Even if our date is postponed, it will still be special. He told her softly. As long as I can be with you, that's more than enough for me.

Sakura's legs grew weak. She could barely contain herself.

I love you, Kurama.

And I love you, my precious flower.

"Kura!" Keiko's sharp cry caused Sakura and Kurama to break apart.

"Keiko? What's going on?"

"Come quickly!" Keiko called breathlessly. "Botan just said your name. Hurry!"

Sakura crossed the five metre distance in a few seconds and knelt beside her unconscious friend.

"Botan?" she whispered. "It's Sakura. Can you hear me?"

Botan moaned faintly, but nothing more. Her ki was pulsing strangely.

"What's going on?" Yukina looked fearfully at everyone.

Sakura bit her lip. "I have an idea. Let me concentrate…"

Taking Botan's hand, Sakura closed her eyes and delved into the void where all the doors waited. There it was. Between the green and dark brown doors that represented Yusuke and Kuwabara respectively, Sakura found the entrance to Botan's mind. But it wouldn't open easily. Sakura knew that before even trying.

Concentrate. Focus all your energy. She's trying to reach you.

The handle turned slowly, and the pink door creaked open…

"Hurry!" Koenma yelled, just as the waves overcame him.

Botan watched in horror, but there was nothing she could do. Koenma had given her a task, and she had to see it through. It was the only chance they had to save the Spirit World.

There was no time to waste. Botan's oar fought the torrents of water flooding through the chamber. The only exit was rapidly closing.

"Come on!" Botan muttered to herself. She had to get out, she had to keep it safe…

The oar broke through the veil of water, only to discover the storm still raged outside. Botan looked back in time to see the Gate of Judgement being swallowed up by the floods.

"Koenma!" she cried.

A bolt of lightning flashed, and Botan couldn't dodge it in time. She screamed once, and fell from the oar…

"KURA!"

Sakura's eyes flew open. She was lying on the ground, trembling uncontrollably. It was like she'd been knocked over by a wrecking ball.

Above her gleamed the concerned eyes of her lover. Keiko, Yukina and Kuwabara were also crowded around, looking extremely worried.

"Kura, what happened?" Keiko cried.

Yusuke burst into the room. "What's all the yelling about?" He caught sight of his twin on the ground and began to panic. "Kura! What's wrong?!"

"It's alright, Yusuke," Kurama held up his hand. "It seemed for a moment that Botan was trying to communicate with Kura, but the connection had an adverse effect,"

Sakura went to sit up, but she was shaking too hard. "Botan… I saw her memories. She was supposed to keep something safe…"

Kurama lifted her upper body. "What was that, love?" he asked softly. "What did you see?"

"I...I don't know," Sakura stammered. "The connection was cut off. I'm sure Botan wanted to show me more. But all I know is that Koenma asked her to do something… and then she was struck by lightning,"

She looked over at Botan, who seemed to be unresponsive again. "Damn it… I was so close… let me try again!"

Sakura rolled out of Kurama's arms and made a move back to the futon when she collapsed again.

What's wrong with me?

"Kura, wait!" Yusuke dived for her, knocking Kurama aside. He rolled her over and glared. "Take it easy, ok? You're white as a ghost,"

"...Fine," Sakura shut her eyes and took a deep breath. "I'll wait,"

Kurama put a hand on Yusuke's shoulder. "Yusuke, calm down," he said evenly. "Whatever happened to Botan, it's affecting her energy and making any connection unstable. Kura was just overwhelmed by the imbalance, that's all," he raised his head and touched Sakura's flushed cheek. "You should wait a little before trying again, my hana,"

Sakura nodded and slowly sat up. "Does Hinageshi have any idea on how we can restore the Spirit World?"

"She said she had to check something in her book first," Yusuke said. He was still intently surveying Sakura for any sign of injury.

"Let's see if she's found it," Sakura said darkly. "Yukina, Keiko. Stay with Botan. If she says anything, or something unusual happens, call me,"

Yusuke helped her up. "Can you stand?"

"I'm fine," Sakura waved her hand dismissively. Of course, she could tell Yusuke didn't believe her.

"Let me," Kurama's gentle hands appeared at Sakura's waist, and she relaxed. Yusuke looked like he wanted to argue, but upon seeing the look on Sakura's face, he backed off.

They returned to the training room. Hinageshi was on her hands and knees, flicking through books.

"There you are," she looked up breathlessly. Her eyes were shining with hope. "I know what to do,"

Kuwabara leaned over the charts Hinageshi was examining. "So what's the plan?

"We have to transmit power to the Spirit World," Hinageshi explained. She pointed at an intricate chart. "Look. There are places in the human world called Elemental Sites which naturally collect spiritual energy,"

"Elemental sites?" Yusuke blinked. "You mean storage tanks for spiritual power?"

Hinageshi nodded. "Yes, something like that. There are five of these elemental sites in the Ningenkai, or Living World to you, representing Earth, Wind, Fire, Water and the Spirit. If they are all unsealed, that amassed spiritual power will be sent to the Spirit World,"

Kurama and Sakura exchanged a look. That could work!

"And with that power, it would be restored!" Kuwabara slammed a fist into his open palm. "So where are they?"

Hinageshi pulled out another map. "They're scattered around the city. We should be able to find them all quite easily,"

"Got it!" Yusuke cheered. "Who's ready to kick some ass?"

Of course, everyone was, but Genkai cleared her throat loudly. "Not tonight, you aren't," she said firmly.

"What?" Yusuke spluttered. "Why not, you old hag?"

"Because I can tell you're low on energy, dimwit," Genkai replied. "Get some sleep, then in the morning you can head out,"

Sakura's eyes widened. "Of course! And who knows? Botan might have recovered enough by then to tell us what happened,"

"Exactly," Genkai nodded. "Go on, pick a room and get some shut-eye. Goodnight,"

Yusuke pouted, but a yawn quickly convinced him that the old bat was right. "Fine," he grumbled. "See you all in the morning,"

Soon, everyone had scattered to find their futons, leaving Sakura alone with Kurama.

Sakura rubbed her tired eyes. She was in no shape to be a hero tonight. But this way, she could spend more time with the man she loved with all her heart. She could fall asleep in his arms tonight, and see his face first thing in the morning. A glorious concept.

"Kurama," she gazed up at his beautiful face. "Will you -?"

Her sentence was cut off by his lips crashing down onto hers. Yes, he seemed to be saying in the movement of his mouth. We can be together tonight, just the two of us.

Without breaking the kiss, Kurama bent down slightly and swept Sakura up in his arms.

We might not be able to have the date I planned just yet, but rest assured that you won't be sleeping alone tonight.

I love you. Sakura pulled him closer. God, he tasted so delicious. He felt so good. It was making her dizzy.

Kurama moved towards the nearest bedroom and lowered Sakura down onto the futon. He climbed in next to her before gathering her against him. Her petite body aligned perfectly with his, like a puzzle piece. It never ceased to amaze him.

Sakura sighed happily and snuggled in a little tighter. Maybe, just maybe, the nightmares would stay away tonight.

On the other side of town, under cover of darkness, a white haired figure in a long green cloak surveyed the city from the roof of a tall building.

Minutes before, his energy blast had ripped through the block, throwing the street into chaos and screams of agony. He smiled at the destruction, knowing that this was just the beginning. As soon as the others arrived, they could truly begin.

Right on cue, three beams of red light soared from the sky towards him. Consequently, three shadowy demons sauntered up behind their king, ready to obey his every command.

"Your three demon gods have arrived, Lord Yakumo," the tallest demon said quietly.

"Now that we have overcome the Raekai, our strategy can enter the second stage," Yakumo grinned. "Find the elemental sites. Let nobody stand in your way. Go!"

"Yes, King Yakumo," the trio chorused in unison, and dispersed to carry out the mission.

Yakumo smirked. After centuries of waiting, his plan would finally be realised. The power of the elemental sites would soon belong to the Netherworld. He trusted those three to take care of that part. He would focus on the final piece. He would find the power sphere.

Hinageshi ran a few feet ahead, paused and glanced at the map. "Ok, turn at this corner so north is behind you,"

According to the map, they were close to the first elemental site, but Sakura's gut was telling her something was wrong.

"Hinageshi," Sakura muttered. "Are you absolutely positive that these elemental sites will be enough to save the Spirit World?"

"Of course I am!" Hinageshi insisted. "Trust me, Sakura. This is the only way!"

Sakura didn't reply. She was thinking about Botan, who was still in a coma-like state at Genkai's temple. Sakura had tried to get inside her mind again that morning, to no avail.

Kuwabara and Yusuke leaned over Hinageshi's shoulder to look at her map, but Kurama slipped an arm around Sakura.

You're still worried about Botan, aren't you?

Sakura nodded reluctantly. I'm positive there's something in Botan's memories that can help us. I just need to find it!

Kurama took her hand. One step at a time, my love.

Maybe I should've stayed back at Genkai's, tried again… Sakura looked at her shoes.

No. Kurama tilted her face back up. We need you here. The quicker we find those elemental sites, the quicker we can help Botan. And everyone else in the Spirit World, for that matter.

Sakura sighed. He was right, as usual.

Just then, the ground began to shake. Kurama immediately pulled Sakura closer. Everyone looked around in alarm, but the shaking stopped as suddenly as it began.

"Is that an earthquake?" Kuwabara yelped.

Sakura gasped and pointed. "Look!"

About fifty metres away, behind houses and trees, a huge energy beam shot through the sky.

Hinageshi glanced down at the map "Oh no, that's the elemental site representing earth!"

"Oh no," Sakura's blood went cold. Did something, or someone beat them to it?

Kurama's eyes narrowed. "Yusuke, let's hurry!"

The group raced towards the energy source, only to discover that they were indeed too late. The statue had been split open, and all the power inside the elemental site was rapidly spilling out into some nefarious-looking portal in the sky. It was so strong, none of them could get close enough to examine it.

Sakura clung to Kurama. A fierce gale was whipping up and her eyes were stinging.

"What is this power?" Yusuke hissed, shielding his face from the wind.

Hinageshi went pale. "This isn't good! Look at that colour. The elemental site has been destroyed,"

"But that's not spiritual power streaming out," Kurama tightened his hold on Sakura. Stay close to me, Kura.

"No," Hinageshi whimpered. "It's the power of the Netherworld! Yakumo's demons must have gotten here first and converted the power inside!"

Yusuke clenched his fists. "So what does that mean?"

"If they steal the power from each of the elemental sites, then the Spirit World will remain inaccessible!" Hinageshi cried.

"We can't waste time," Sakura said urgently. "If they've gotten to this one, we need to protect the other sites,"

A collective nod from the group, and Yusuke gripped Sakura's arm. "We should split up, cover more ground. Come on, Kura. I need your help with this one,"

Sakura blinked. "Isn't this usually the part where you tell me to go home?"

"That was before the Dark Tournament, you damn brat," Yusuke growled. "Now move it!"

Sakura glanced from Kurama to Yusuke, looking agonised. Hinageshi was already on her oar, looking impatient. There was no time to delay.

"It's alright, love," Kurama said quickly. "I'll be fine,"

Sakura tapped her head. "Keep in touch,"

He nodded. I love you.

Sakura allowed Yusuke to pull her away. I love you too.

She glanced over her shoulder and watched Kurama fade into the distance. He could take care of himself, but Sakura couldn't dismiss the fear entirely. Who knew what they were up against?

Sakura gritted her teeth and kept moving. No matter what, Kurama, you have to come back to me.

A.N. Poltergeist Report has hit the ground running, and I can reveal that elements of this story will be very important in Book 4! What did you think?

Chapter 5 will be released by July 26th. Since Poltergeist Report is a 90 minute film, it'll span approximately three chapters and I'm confident that I can release them in quick succession over the next week thanks to lockdown. The Covid situation in Sydney continues to worsen and we have a snowball's chance in hell of going back to normal next week. Joy!

Anyway, it's past midnight here and I'm going to bed. To be honest, this lockdown has been so incredibly hard and draining. At times, I've had to really force myself to write, knowing that it keeps my spirits up and keeps you all happy, which is the goal at the end of the day.

You can help me by leaving a review, and making sure you follow/favourite. Reviews keep me writing faster, and at a higher standard.

See you soon!

Next Chapter: Team Urameshi battles to protect the elemental sites, while Sakura tries to figure out Botan's message.