A.N. Time for the ultimate battle of words... and then a guessing game. Let's see how the rest of the night will play out.

LadyAmazon: Oh I'm so thrilled to hear that! I hope this next part gives you all you wanted as well.

Wolfs Child: Here it is! I hope you enjoy this one too!

Ghost of Magic: Yep, it's easily one of my favourite moments in the anime.

Hina714: Sorry, as I was planning the book I realised it wasn't a good idea for a number of reasons. For one, Kurama would almost certainly have killed Kaito any way that he could. However, I can exclusively reveal the hue of Sakura's soul. It's soft pink, the exact same colour as a traditional sakura flower. As for the questions, there's going to be a bit of a twist for that scene, but I assure you Sakura will definitely be asked a rather embarrassing question by her brother before the chapter is through. And yes, I love the images of Kurama's plants protecting Sakura as well. It's so beautiful to imagine!

hw0134160: It's such a fantastic line. And yes, Kaito is all kinds of creepy at first. I actually wish we'd had a chance to see his power utilised more in this arc... maybe I'll have to change that...

As for the vaccine, I got Astra-Zeneca since it's the only one I can really get access to right now. I have a major needle phobia (like Goku!), but like you said, it sure beats the alternative. It's been about two hours since my appointment and so far I've just got a slightly sore arm. We'll see what happens, but I'm so relieved to be on my way to being fully vaxxed.

Yes, writing is extremely draining but it truly keeps me sane right now. I won't lie, I do struggle sometimes and it's mainly with the fear of my work not being good enough. I swear, every single time I finish a chapter I immediately think "Oh no, this is really badly written, nobody's going to like it, I suck at this..." it never lasts long though. Usually I just take a break and then keep going.

I'm looking forward to the Hospital Saga too. I've had that in my head for a long time, it'll be intense!

DCD Gojira: :D I had the vaccine today about two hours ago. So far I've just got a sore arm. We'll see. With Astra-Zeneca the first one is meant to be the worst, but it sure beats the alternative.

Sakura-chan: Kurama's protectiveness over Sakura is only going to reach new heights! You'll have to read on to find out what happens next. I had the vaccine about two hours ago, it went off without a hitch and so far I feel fine, but we'll see if I get any other side effects. Which, for the record, I much prefer over the thought of being on a ventilator.

Please make sure you follow/favourite and review!

I don't own YYH, just my OCs.

Chapter 10

Tick. Tick. Tick.

"Almost time," Kaito mused. He produced another sheet of paper and set it on the table near the orbs containing the souls of Hiei, Kuwabara and Botan.

Another pause, and he glanced over at the door with a smile.

"You know, it's not too late for you to join in, Sakura. Aren't you at least a little curious to find out the hue of your soul?"

"She's not playing, Kaito," Kurama's voice was colder than ice. "I will not warn you again,"

Kaito's gaze lingered on Sakura for a little longer before sweeping over to Yana's grinning face. "Make sure she doesn't interfere,"

It was thirty seconds to midnight. The blank sheet of paper in front of Kaito suddenly filled with elegant handwriting, and he read it out loud.

"Follow the rule, both host and guest.

Don't utter a letter crossed off from the list.

Each hundred and four seconds, note too,

Another letter becomes Taboo,"

Three of their friends had lost their souls. Yusuke was being held somewhere in this crazy house, and Kurama's own soul was now on the line. Not to mention the interference from these stupid territories made her telepathy almost useless.

Sakura's heart had already beat at least ten times in the final seconds before the minute hand slid over to mark one o'clock. It was time.

"We begin," Kaito and Kurama said simultaneously. One hundred and four seconds, and the letter Z would be Taboo.

Kaito leaned back in his chair, calm as anything. "Better get any Z words out of you before they're taboo. Zealous zebras and crazy zinc zippers,"

The sweat sliding down Sakura's face was a combination of the room's humidity levels and barely-suppressed panic.

Just like that, Z was crossed off the list with a small ding.

Calm down, Sakura. Kurama said to trust him. If anyone can outwit Kaito, he can. You just need to stay here, and keep absolutely quiet.

Kurama still hadn't said anything. Kaito looked even more pleased. "The next will be more of a challenge. We'll forfeit the letter Y. Why, oh why do we lose the letter Y? What if we need to cry? I find this game very enjoyable, don't you?"

"Be careful, Kaito," Kurama said quietly. "You'll tire yourself and make a mistake,"

Kaito smirked and called over his shoulder to Yana. "Are you two enjoying the show?"

Ding!

Y was Taboo.

Sakura had never been a huge fan of crosswords and other such puzzles, but even she had to admit the idea of not being allowed to use certain letters was both clever and fascinating. Kaito's earlier comment about the letter Y had been quite profound.

Ding! X was out, though the only X words that came to mind for Sakura were xylophone and xenial.

Did silent letters count? Or was it just the sound? Either way, Sakura wasn't about to test the theory.

Instead, her mind began drifting towards the thought of her captive twin. Judging from what she knew, he was somewhere upstairs. Assuming that Kaito was telling the truth and Yusuke was unharmed, he was likely in a very bad mood.

Their argument from that morning came rushing back. It felt like days had passed instead of hours, but Yusuke's teasing face floated at the forefront of Sakura's memory, along with his words.

"There's nothing you can do about it because I'm the Dark Tournament champ!... Now that Toguro's finished and those Netherworld jerks, what could challenge me?"

It seemed he'd learned the answer to that question the hard way. Once she freed him, he'd have to eat humble pie. He'd have to admit that he wasn't invincible.

Sakura imagined the look on Yusuke's face after being rescued by his twin sister. Given the situation, it was strange, but the imagery caused an impulsive giggle to escape Sakura's lips.

Kaito and Yana's eyes immediately locked onto her. "Something amusing, Sakura?"

"N-no!" Sakura shook her head quickly. Kurama cleared his throat, and with a final glance of suspicion, Kaito nodded at Yana and returned to the game.

Yana moved closer to Sakura until he was behind her, inches from her neck. He was close. Too close. The sound of his gum cracking filled her ears and she began to shake…

Ding!

The letter W was added.

Kurama's blazing eyes found Sakura's. He was still in the game, and that gave Sakura the strength to stay in reality.

She forced herself to breathe.

Calm down, Sakura. If you get worked up, you might say the wrong thing. Remember what you learned in therapy. Breathe deeply, slowly…

"At last, a challenge," Kaito marvelled. "It's rather remarkable. So much I use those last letters,"

Kurama was unconcerned. "Losing S, T and U should be a greater obstacle,"

Her heart now slowing to a normal rate, another thought occurred to Sakura. Yusuke was no doubt going to be extremely pissed off about being kidnapped, but he was probably worried about her, too. He'd been unconscious, with no way of knowing if she'd been taken as well.

I'm safe, Yusuke. At least, as safe as I can be in this territory. And when I get out of here, I'm coming for you. I'll save you from this place!

Kaito was still planning to steal her soul. And he would, unless she stayed focused and let Kurama do what he had to do.

Ding! Ding! Ding! The letters V, U and T were gone, but Kurama still hadn't made his move. What was he waiting for?

Kaito's smile was wider than ever. "A challenging mind game, Minamino. Ready for conceding?"

"No,"

"Inform me. A plan cooking here?"

Kurama didn't even blink. "Racing clock, forbidding more freedom,"

Kaito stood up, and Kurama raised a brow. "Going off?"

"Need a john," Kaito replied curtly.

In the silence, Sakura heard every step Kaito took on his way over to the bathroom. With one hand on the doorknob, he looked over at Sakura, and Yana towering behind her.

Kaito's icy smile paused for a split second. He seemed to be debating with himself. Sakura's heart started pounding again.

Kurama's own heart constricted. They were getting far too close to his treasure.

Mine.

At last, Kaito pointed at Yana, then at Sakura. "Hold her," he instructed.

Yana was behind Sakura, but she could feel his smug grin as his hands came down on her fragile shoulders. She whimpered.

No...no please, don't touch me like this! I can't…

"No lip," Kaito warned Yana. "I'll be back,"

He disappeared into the bathroom and Yana chuckled softly before slapping a hand over his mouth. He was in Kaito's territory, and at risk of losing his soul like the others.

Ding!

Now S was taboo.

Kurama stared daggers across the room. His anger was already at boiling point. He'd explicitly warned Yana not to touch his precious flower, yet that order had been blatantly disobeyed.

Sakura couldn't stop shaking.

Focus, come on, you can do this…

It was no use. The terror was beginning to overwhelm her. She might as well be back at the Dark Tournament, being dragged to Sakyo and Toguro…

Suddenly, she was seized from behind and a hand pressed down over her mouth.

"Don't even think about screaming," her assailant hissed in her ear. "I don't want to hurt you, but I will if you try anything. You're coming with me for a little chat,"

Yana smirked at Kurama, and pulled Sakura closer to his body. Kurama could already sense Sakura's rising anxiety. No violence was allowed, but Kurama knew this invasion of Sakura's personal space was the most deadly violation possible. Her eyes were becoming glassy, a tell-tale sign that she was having a flashback.

He had to move quickly. Any second now, she would likely be in the midst of a panic attack, and lose her soul by making the wrong sound.

Ding!

R was now forbidden.

With Kaito out of the room, Kurama's moment to act had arrived. The plants hanging above Yana's head began snaking down the wall behind him…

Scarface easily picked up Sakura, who was completely limp from fear and pulled her through a doorway.

"You're so predictable, Sakura. I knew exactly what you would do. Oh, and if you try to use your telepathy trick, Yusuke dies. So just relax. Sakyo is waiting for you…"

A gentle, loving hand touched her face.

Kura, stay with me. It's alright, you're safe.

Sakura blinked and the room came back into focus. Kurama's face appeared in front of her.

Kurama? I can hear you again!

Come on, sweetheart. There isn't much time.

Upon seeing his flower coming back to reality, he took her hand and began moving quickly with her into the maze of rapidly-growing plants.

Sakura looked over her shoulder. Yana was hanging from the ceiling, apparently unconscious and only being supported by Kurama's sentient vines.

Kurama, what's going on? How did you -?

Trust me, Kura.

He stepped onto a giant leaf and held her tightly against him. With a quick hand motion, the leaf rose to the ceiling. Now that they were closer, it was a bit easier to communicate despite the interference.

They were now on the same level as that giant humidifying light fixture. Kurama stepped onto it first to test the weight, and satisfied that it was safe, he carefully helped Sakura to sit beside him.

She stared at him. What are you doing?

You have to stay hidden. He stroked her face to calm her. There's less interference in your telepathy when we're close. When Kaito comes back, he'll be caught off-guard, and that's when I'll strike. You just stay here, and don't worry about anything.

Sakura took a deep breath. In her lover's eyes, she could see that he had everything under control.

Do what you have to do.

Kaito had no chance. When backed into a corner, Kurama was at his most dangerous.

What is that genius brain up to?

Kaito hunched over the sink and methodically washed his hands.

He knows I won't slip on my own, but he sits, letting the clock run and knowing if neither one of us speaks, he'll lose.

The final traces of soap washed away, disappearing down the drain, but Kaito was lost in thought.

He must be waiting for the end when no-one can speak to commit some heinous trick. I'll watch him carefully. And that girlfriend of his.

Just then, a loud thud sounded just outside the bathroom. Kaito was jolted from his reverie.

He hurried outside to investigate and discovered Yana lying motionless on the ground. Sakura was nowhere in sight.

She's gone! Kaito looked around wildly, then back at Yana. But no violence is allowed…

How did this happen? Kaito looked up at the ceiling. The vines were just withdrawing, no doubt at Shuichi's command. He understood at once.

The plants! I did have one in here that catches insects by drugging them…

Well, that explained one thing, but where was Shuichi? And his girlfriend? Kaito stared down at Yana, thinking hard.

Have they moved on alone? No, they couldn't have. The layout of the house wouldn't have allowed it. There are three doors between here and the next room. I have the second key, and we hid the third. Besides, Shuichi told me how protective he was of his friend's souls. No doubt Sakura is too. He wouldn't have left them behind. Unless… unless he found a way to take them with him!

Kaito turned around, but was thoroughly unprepared for the sight awaiting him. The room was now teeming with huge, vibrant tropical plants. Even as Kaito walked towards the jungle, the flora continued to grow in all directions.

Bastard! How could he do this so quickly?!

Kaito pushed through the vegetation until he found the empty chairs. All three soulless bodies remained in their original positions, and all three souls were still on the table.

Everything's still here. He wouldn't have abandoned them. Which means…he's still somewhere in the room. Yes, waiting to finish the game. This is how it should be, adversary. Your world against mine!

A few strange sounds made Kaito jump.

Where the hell is he? And her, for that matter?

With a face resembling a thundercloud, Kaito looked around the room, listening for any sign of Shuichi's whereabouts. Or Sakura's.

Kaito knew he still had the advantage. If Shuichi stayed out of sight, he'd lose. And then, there would be nothing to stop him from taking the girl's soul as well.

He peered through the greenery at the clock on the wall. It was one-thirty. According to the Taboo page lying before him, two-thirds of the letters were restricted.

That doesn't leave many combinations. The vast majority of words or sounds will break the rules. I just have to keep from speaking. Yes, I'll just stand here, and not say a word.

Now he knew what Shuichi had been planning from the very beginning.

I know that's your plan, Shuichi. You want to scare me into screaming a taboo. But as long as I stand in the centre, you can't sneak up on me. I'll hear you in the brush.

The clock kept ticking, and Kaito's confidence only grew with each passing second.

There's a few more minutes. Only A, B and C are left. You can't sneak up on me. You won't make me scream!

Kaito watched as the letter C was eliminated from use.

Only A and B now. Just don't say a word!

Shuichi was coming for him any second. He could feel it. He didn't know from where, or exactly when, but any second now, he'd try to make him scream.

Kaito covered his mouth and braced for impact.

I'm really going to beat him, once and for all!

At last, Shuichi would be humiliated. The thought was enough to make him dance with joy, but not just yet.

From atop the light fixture, Kurama looked back at Sakura, who was crouching out of sight. He motioned at her to stay quiet, and keep her eyes shut. She nodded, and immediately obeyed.

With a vine supporting him, Kurama silently lowered himself down until he was behind Kaito. Just two minutes left...

"BA!"

Kaito jumped, but pressed his hands tighter over his mouth while his heart hammered away at an alarming rate.

Ding!

B was gone. Only the letter A remained.

I did it! I beat you, Shuichi Minamino!

Knowing that Shuichi was behind him, Kaito whirled around to claim victory. He wanted to see the light leave Shuichi's eyes. He wanted to witness the exact moment where he owned the soul of his great rival…

Sakura kept her eyes shut and her hands over her mouth. She'd jumped at Kurama's attempt to scare Kaito as well, but true to her word she'd stayed absolutely silent.

But something was wrong. Kaito hadn't screamed. Her heart began to sink. There was only a minute or so left, and if Kaito didn't make a sound, then…

She paused. There was a sound coming from Kaito, though not a scream. It was strangled at first, fighting to escape, but eventually he couldn't hold it back any longer.

Kaito's hysterical laughter rang throughout the room, breaking more taboos than anyone could count. He managed to get ahold of himself just long enough to realise he was finished.

"NO!"

A familiar whoosh, the sound of something keeling over, and the Taboo paper was wiped clean.

Sakura felt a hand on her shoulder. She opened her eyes, and Kurama was there, holding out his hand. She took it, and he immediately pulled her into his arms, lowering them both down to the ground just in time to see Botan, Kuwabara and Hiei's souls return to their bodies.

"Alright, I'm back in the flesh!" Kuwabara cheered. With a gasp, Botan looked up.

The plants retracted at Kurama's command. Their part in this was over. He pressed his lips to Sakura's forehead.

"Kaito's territory is no more,"

Sakura threw her arms around him to stop herself from crumbling to the ground in relief.

"You're a genius," she whispered. "A total genius. I can't believe we got out of that!"

Everyone looked down at Kaito's grey, soulless shell of a body. The laugh that defeated him was still etched on his face.

"Yeah, beaten at his own game," Kuwabara laughed. "He got it in the end. But man, we'd be toast if it wasn't for you, Kurama. And no thanks to you, Hiei! Getting us in trouble with your I'm-so-tough act!"

For once, the fire demon didn't have a snappy comeback.

"Hmph!"

"What in the world happened?" Botan enquired.

Sakura looked at Kurama with a raised eyebrow. "How did you make him laugh? I had my eyes shut, like you told me to,"

"That's a trade secret," Kurama said in a mysterious tone, but Sakura noticed the mischief deep inside his eyes. "Ironic. After all his grave intentions, the one thing to unravel him was a laugh,"

They'd made it past the first obstacle. One of Yusuke's captors might've been taken down, but two remained. In spite of this, Sakura's resolve was only strengthened.

I'm coming, Yusuke. I'm coming to save you.

Kido scowled. "What is going on down there?"

The strange noises coming from the floor below were, in a manner of speaking, disconcerting.

Still paralysed, Yusuke snorted. "You invited a group into your living room who don't know how to lose," he said coldly. "What did you expect, they'd obey you politely?"

Kido stayed silent, but there was a glint in Yusuke's eye.

"They're coming up here. And they're gonna bust me out," Yusuke drove the words into Kido's face. "And then I'm gonna kick your ass,"

Yana stirred, and his eyes cracked open. Initially disoriented, he looked up at the shadowy figures towering over him.

"Nap time is over," Kurama's voice was cold.

Yana leapt to his feet and took in the sight. Kurama and Sakura were glaring at him, and so were Botan, Kuwabara and Hiei.

"Looks like you guys defeated my old pal Kaito," Yana smiled. "Very impressive,"

Kurama held up the key he'd taken from Yana, and the second one they'd found on Kaito with the help of the psychic spyglass.

"So far, we have only been successful in opening two of the three doors that will lead us to the subsequent room,"

"Don't tell me that's the reason you guys woke me up," Yana snickered.

"Actually, we woke you up because of this," Sakura said icily. She shoved a piece of paper in Yana's sneering face. "This was on the third door. Open without Yanagisawa's approval, and Urameshi dies,"

Yana laughed. "That is a good reason,"

"If you know what's good for you, then you will give us your approval," Hiei said menacingly. "Unless you harbour a deathwish,"

"May I remind you that those kinds of tactics don't work here, Hiei?" Yana sighed. "So keep your mouth shut, and do exactly what I tell you,"

Sakura's patience was rapidly disappearing. "Fine!" she snapped. "Now I want to see my brother!"

Kuwabara growled. "It really chaps my hide that we have to stand here and swallow this dweeb's abuse,"

Yana began to laugh. He motioned for them to follow. Kurama wrapped a protective arm around Sakura's waist, and they followed Yana through the series of doors.

Yusuke's brief display of cockiness hadn't lasted long. The reality of being helpless was eating away at his pride again. Kido had noticed, and was already honing in on it.

"Your friends may have defeated Kaito but I wonder if they'll make it up here, alive?"

Yusuke snarled. "Why don't you say something useful, like how long are you going to keep me here?!"

"As long as necessary," Kido answered smoothly. "Say, what are the odds your sister will be with them? You want to take a guess?"

Yusuke's heart stopped. "What is that supposed to mean?" he hissed.

Kido shrugged. "Nothing," he smirked. "Nothing at all,"

Yana finally opened the third door. Everyone filed in behind him. Past the foyer, they were now in a large, well-lit room containing seven different coloured staircases.

"This place is insane," Kuwabara grumbled. "What's with the stair museum?"

Yana turned back to them all with a crafty smile.

"Yusuke is on the next floor up. But each one of you has to take a different staircase to get to him,"

"What?!" Sakura was sure she'd misheard. They were being split up? Why?

Kurama tightened his hold on Sakura. "What's your reason for separating us?"

"My reason?" Yana snickered. "It's like the old saying goes; that's for me to know and for you to find out,"

Kuwabara ground his teeth together. "Listen, weasel - !"

"Kuwabara!" Kurama said sternly. "I understand your frustration, but if we wish to help Yusuke, we must comply,"

For a moment, nobody moved. This was definitely not going to end well.

Suddenly, Botan gasped. "Oh, I forgot!"

She opened the suitcase and began digging for something.

"I knew this stuff would come in handy…now let me see… bingo! This clever little gadget is guaranteed to blow you away!"

Botan held up what looked like a plain badge. "The always stylish Tracking Sticker!"

"Oh great. Here we go," Kuwabara sighed in resignation and turned to Botan with a martyred look. "But Botan, what can it do?"

"Glad you asked," Botan grinned and launched into her spiel. "It's a modification of the Tattoo Stamps we use when arresting criminals. Only the applier can remove it. It'll only come off by itself if that person dies. Also, the seal will change colours to indicate that person's physical status. Blue if normal, yellow for a minor injury, and red if critical. All in one convenient package!"

Sakura rolled her eyes. "What is this, a sponsorship plug?"

"I see," Kurama took one from Botan and eyed it carefully. "So we should write our names on the seals and attach them to one another. Then we'll know immediately if someone is hurt,"

He turned to Yana. "Hopefully these are allowed?"

Yana shrugged. He looked bored. "Whatever. I don't care,"

The seals were handed out. With shaking hands, Sakura wrote her name on four separate stickers. One by one, they were attached to the group.

Botan looked down at the stickers on her top. Kurama, Kuwabara, Sakura. Someone was missing.

"Well, they're all blue. Glad to know we're all ok. Everyone except you, Hiei,"

As one, they turned to look at the surly fire demon. He alone had no stickers on his robe.

"I don't need them," he snorted.

"Sure you do," Botan walked over with a sticker. "You want to know we're ok!"

Hiei seized her arm before she could attach the seal. "Touch me, and I break your wrist!"

Kurama took advantage of his distraction to place a sticker in the centre of Hiei's chest.

"Could it be that Hiei has already forgotten that his soul was first to be lost?" he said pointedly.

The battle was won. Everyone slowly filed over to attach their seals, and take a moment to rub it in a bit.

"So there, rebel," Botan smiled.

Kuwabara laughed. "He told you!"

"Here you go, Short Stack," Sakura made a show of sticking hers on.

Hiei growled softly, but it wasn't like he could say anything at this point.

Kurama squeezed Sakura's hand gently. Be safe, my love.

She attempted to smile, but it came out more like a grimace.

I'll see you soon.

"I'm ready when the rest of you guys are," Kuwabara called from the yellow staircase.

Botan was at the pink entrance. "I'm all set here!"

Hiei said nothing. He simply stared at the blue staircase he'd chosen.

"Let's begin," Kurama said from the green path. "Remember, caution is our ally,"

"Be careful, everyone," Sakura murmured. She took a few shaky steps up the purple stairs and vanished into the darkness.

The second they were gone, Yana pulled out a phone.

"Those seals were a good idea. Too bad they won't be any help,"

He pressed a button, and spoke quickly.

"Kido, everything's going as planned. They're on their way up right now,"

"Ah, perfect," Kido grinned. "This is much easier than I thought. Too bad that poor sap Kaito won't be present to witness it,"

He hung up and turned to Yusuke, who was apparently on the verge of exploding with rage.

"Yusuke, good news. Your friends are coming up to rescue you,"

"Then clue me in. Why aren't you running for your life?!" Yusuke demanded. "They're stronger and faster than you and they don't feel bad about breaking someone's face! I may suck at maths, but I know they have five shadows and you only have two legs. And once they free me by busting out that spotlight, you'll get to know the floor,"

Having listened to Yusuke's entire rant without answering, a laughing Kido shook his head slightly in amusement.

"Laugh all you want, but you know if I'd seen what kind of lame ass power you have, there'd be no way in hell you would've been able to trap me!" Yusuke shouted at the top of his lungs.

"Yes, Yusuke. You would win. There's no question in my mind about that," Kido acknowledged calmly. "But you see, it doesn't matter what you would have done. Because the fact is, I did trap you!"

This is bizarre. These stairs seemed to be spiralling. But why? There's only two floors!

Up and up Sakura climbed. There was no light. She couldn't see more than a few centimetres in front of her face.

How long has it been? It can't have been more than a few minutes since I started walking. Surely I'm getting closer now…

Sakura didn't know what was scarier, the all-consuming darkness or the dead silence. With no way of contacting anyone through telepathy, she didn't have a clue what they might be facing.

There had to be more than just taking different staircases for the fun of it. Those guys were up to something, she knew it.

Keep going.

The spiralling stairs had straightened out and Sakura was now in a steep ascent. There was a faint light at the end, and her heart leapt. It was a door!

Hang on, Yusuke. I'll be there soon. And I'll get you out, I swear! I don't care what I have to do, or who I might -

The floor shifted beneath Sakura, and she fell through the trapdoor with a shriek that nobody else could hear.

Kido held out his hand, inches from Yusuke's face. "If I wanted to, I could kill you right now, just by covering your mouth and nose,"

"Go on then!" Yusuke yelled angrily. "It'd be a hell of a lot better than just standing here listening to your BS!"

Kido backed away. "Sorry, Yusuke. Too easy. We have other plans for you,"

Just then, four doors along the left wall opened and people started entering one by one. In the shadows, their identities were obscured.

Kido grinned. "Welcome,"

"What's up, guys?" Yusuke blinked, trying to see who was there.

"Urameshi!"

"Yusuke?"

Everyone ran forward into the light. Kuwabara came first, followed closely by Botan, Hiei and Kurama.

Yusuke's heart froze in fear when he realised that Sakura wasn't with them.

The fall only lasted for a few seconds. Sakura landed on something soft. For a moment, she lay dazed, with the adrenaline and panic still flooding through her.

Where am I? What just happened?

Sakura shook her head to regain her senses and sat up.

She'd landed on a thick mattress in a small room, maybe eight by twelve feet squared. There was a door covered with steel bars, and no windows whatsoever. Far above her was the trapdoor she'd fallen through, too high to reach.

Oh no…

Sakura's heart began to pound again. She had a horrible feeling that communication wouldn't just be difficult here, but impossible.

Kurama?! Kuwabara? Hiei? Oh, crap!

Sakura buried her head in her hands and tried to calm down.

I'm trapped in here. But why? Am I being used as bait? No…come on, Sakura. Stay focused. There's got to be something…

She looked around wildly. Aside from the mattress, there was a small table in the centre of the room with a mini fridge on top, along with a piece of paper.

Sakura crossed the room and picked up the note.

Don't bother screaming or trying to escape, Kura. It won't do you any good. This room is soundproofed, reinforced to resist your strongest spirit attacks and coated with a seal that blocks all telepathic communication. On top of that, nobody knows where you are except for me.

There's no need to panic. You'll be perfectly safe. Everyone will. This is an important part of the night, and you'll be released when Yusuke solves the last puzzle. However long that takes is entirely up to him. Until then, just relax. You'll be able to see everything on the TV.

There's drinks in the fridge if you want one. Again, you have nothing to worry about. Nobody is in danger.

~ The Mastermind

Sakura lowered the note with shaking hands. Someone else was behind this? Someone who knew her pet name?

What the hell is going on?

She read the note again. Nobody was in danger? That didn't make any sense!

Breathe, Sakura. You need to stay calm. Think about this.

The writer claimed that she couldn't escape from this room. Ordinarily, Sakura's instincts would be to immediately distrust such a statement and give it her best shot. However, after the events of Kaito's territory, it wouldn't be wise to take such a risk. Especially considering that she was alone and unable to contact anyone.

There were two possibilities. One, the Mastermind was telling the truth, and she'd be free once this was over. Or two, the Mastermind was lying. If that was the case, then hope wasn't lost. Yusuke and Kurama would be livid, along with Kuwabara and Hiei. With their skills, and Botan using the detective tools, Sakura knew they'd turn the building upside down to find her.

Either way, one thing was clear. She wasn't getting out of this room until someone else let her out, friend or foe.

There was nothing else for it. She might as well take the note's advice and settle in for now. Besides, there really was a pretty sizeable television all set up, and the mini fridge was well stocked, much like the one downstairs. Now that her heart had slowed, Sakura realised just how thirsty she was.

She pulled out a can of lemonade, and it opened with a telltale crack. Knowing that it hadn't been tampered with gave her the confidence to start drinking as the TV screen flickered to life. But Sakura nearly choked when she caught sight of the images.

It seemed to be a live feed from somewhere in the house. The room was dark except for a brilliant spotlight in the corner. To her utter relief, Sakura saw Yusuke standing apparently unharmed but still immobilised in front of the lamp. Kido was leaning casually against a pillar in the middle of the room with his feet on Yusuke's shadow.

He's really ok!

Sakura's legs went weak and she collapsed on the mattress with tears in her eyes. She watched the others racing over to him, looking extremely confused.

"What's going on?" Kuwabara was bewildered. "Why are you just standing there like that?"

"Just stay where you are!" Yusuke yelled. "I'm here because I'm stuck. If you get close enough for him to step on your shadow, you'll be stuck too!"

Kido smiled faintly. "That's true, but frankly, that's the least of your worries. Haven't you noticed that your numbers don't add up?"

"He's right," Kurama looked around and his expression hardened. "Kura's not here,"

"What?" Botan cried. "How is that possible? It's only been a few minutes!"

Sakura saw Yusuke's tense face relax slightly, just for a moment. "So she's been with you the whole time?!"

She hurried to the TV and put her hand on the screen.

He must've been so worried, not knowing if I was safe.

"Yes," Botan said quickly. "Right up until we had to take different stairs,"

That gave Yusuke some sense of relief, but the panicked look worn by Botan and Kuwabara was enough to turn his stomach. Even Hiei looked startled.

Yusuke glared at the blonde boy who was keeping him paralysed.

"Talk, Kido. Where's Kura?!"

"It's a funny thing about twins, Yusuke," Kido leaned back against the pillar without a care in the world. "They make excellent hostages,"

"You didn't answer his question," Kurama trained his dangerously cold look on Kido. "Where is she?"

Kido didn't even flinch in the face of Kurama's anger.

"You'll know when the time is right, Kurama. She's perfectly fine, but if you don't want your girlfriend to be punished, I suggest you stay exactly where you are,"

Sakura wanted to call out, to let them know she was alright, but it wasn't going to do any good. All she could do was try to stay calm, and hope the Mastermind would let her out soon.

"You could have easily taken Sakura along with Yusuke," Kurama's voice was low, calculating. "Why wait until now?"

Kido smiled. "It's all a matter of timing. We're most intrigued by Sakura's abilities. But for this next game, telepathy is what we consider an unfair advantage, even allowing for interference,"

He turned back to the confused and angry Yusuke. "Now, let's begin the next game, shall we?" he nodded over at the rest of the group. "One of your friends here is an imposter,"

Sakura's jaw dropped. What?!

"What is that supposed to mean?" Kuwabara demanded.

Yusuke seemed to stumble over his words. "What the?"

"Your only objective in this game is to determine the imposter within ten minutes, beginning now," Kido pointed at the others. "As for you four, you are only allowed to speak when Yusuke has asked you a direct question,"

There was a moment of stunned silence on the screen. Sakura barely registered the drink slipping from her hands.

A fake? But how?

"I don't know this guy," Kuwabara growled. "How do we know he's telling us the truth?"

Botan nodded. "I find it hard to believe anyone could disguise themselves so perfectly in such a short amount of time!"

"I thought I told you not to speak unless you were spoken to," Kido snickered. "Don't you care about what happens to your friends?"

Hiei snorted. "I could easily slit your throat before you even think about doing anything to the detective,"

"You don't follow me, do you?" Kido sighed. "Whoever is being impersonated is currently in our prison, along with Sakura. Mr Urameshi isn't the only one at risk. And for those of you lacking in manners, that means if anything should happen to me, the other two we've captured will promptly be killed,"

Terror shot through Sakura. But…but the note said nobody was in danger! This isn't right!

Kurama's eyes narrowed. "It seems your group has thought of everything,"

"Let me guess," Yusuke spat. "If I don't find the fake in ten minutes, you'll kill the real one,"

"Better make that nine minutes," Kido checked his watch. "And your sister's safety might be compromised as well,"

Not only was his sister in danger, but one of the others was as well. Yusuke took a breath and tried to think through his panic.

"Let's see…what's the best way to weed out a fake...? Kuwabara! What's your blood type and when were you born?"

"Figures!" Kuwabara snapped. "You have to suspect me first off!"

"Oh, get over yourself!" Yusuke said impatiently. "Answer me!"

Kuwabara folded his arms. "Ok, Mr Crabby Pants, but do you even know my birthday and blood type in the first place?"

Yusuke paused. "Huh. I guess I don't,"

Sakura facepalmed. We're screwed.

"Kurama," Yusuke turned to the fox demon. "Please tell me your Mom's name and how old she is,"

"Her name is Shiori," Kurama answered calmly. "She is forty years old and she will be married in the fall,"

Yusuke's face lit up. "That's great! Tell her congratulations for me! Hey, am I invited to the wedding?"

Sakura smacked her forehead. "Is that really the most important thing right now?"

"Only seven minutes," Kido called.

"Alright, Botan," Yusuke kept a very straight face. "Prove to me who you are by telling me your boob size,"

Sakura shut her eyes. "You guys don't need to worry about killing my idiot brother," she called out, in case anyone was listening. "I'll happily do it myself!"

"Have you lost your mind completely?!" Botan screeched in outrage. "You and I both know that I've never told you anything of the sort!"

Yusuke flashed a devious smile. "You told me when we were on the roof of the school, remember?"

Botan spluttered, apparently trying to remember. Finally, she shook her head and shrieked back. "YOU JUST MADE THAT UP! YOU DISGUSTING PERVERT!"

"Damn…" Yusuke mumbled. "And she almost fell for it too,"

Hiei rolled his eyes. "Ha! This stupidity is making me nauseous,"

"Fine, we'll go to you," Yusuke said sharply. "What's your little sister's name?"

Sakura's head snapped up. For once, Yusuke had actually used his brain. That was a great question!

Hiei paused for a moment. "You know her well enough. I refuse to play this nonsense game,"

Yusuke scowled. "Nope, that's definitely Hiei, bad attitude and all,"

"Hey, that's weird," Kuwabara piped up. "I didn't know you had a little sis, Hiei. I bet she's a pint-sized pain in the you-know-what just like you. Probably ugly, too,"

"I will kill you!"

Sakura slapped a hand over her mouth. That's right, he doesn't know about Yukina!

Botan gasped. "I forgot Kuwabara doesn't know the relation!"

"Huh?" Kuwabara whirled around.

Kurama hurriedly made a shushing motion at Botan. "Shh!"

Too late. Kuwabara had already heard enough. "So everyone knows about her except me?!"

"Well…basically," Kurama said a little too brightly.

"WHY DIDN'T YOU PUNKS CLUE ME IN EARLIER?!"

Kurama glanced at Hiei. "It's… complicated,"

"Well, what are you looking at me for?" Hiei growled.

Sakura jumped to her feet. "Shouldn't you be worrying about something else?!"

As if he'd heard her, Kurama shook his head. They had to focus. "We don't have time to talk about this!"

"Aww, have a heart, Kurama!" Kuwabara whined. "At least tell me what her name is!"

Kido checked his watch. "Five minutes left!"

"I'll talk to you about her later!" Kurama said sternly.

Kuwabara hissed. "Ok, but you better mean it! Any day now, Urameshi!"

"Get off me!" Yusuke groaned. "I'm going as fast as I can -"

He paused, having noticed something. "Um, guys? What's the deal with the stupid looking name tags?"

"If a certain someone had paid more attention when I was explaining their tools to them, they'd know that these are Tracking Stickers!" Botan snapped, still ratty about the stunt Yusuke had tried to pull minutes before.

Yusuke laughed sheepishly. "Oh yeah, I forgot. Sorry about that,"

"You know, sometimes I think YOU might be the imposter!" Botan huffed.

"Wait…" Yusuke said slowly. "That's the one where the only person who can remove the seal is the one who put it on, right?"

Botan nodded. "Yes, because both humans and demons have their own unique energy print,"

"Hey, that's it!" Yusuke's face lit up.

Kurama looked down at his own stickers. "I see. The imposter cannot remove the seals! Alright, ready?"

The group faced each other and collectively nodded. "Ready!"

Sakura watched the screen with baited breath. Slowly, everyone went to remove the seals…and all of them came off without any trouble.

"What the hell?!" Yusuke gasped.

"But this is impossible!" Botan squeaked. "These things are meant to be foolproof!"

Hiei crushed the seal between his fingers. "So there was never an imposter to begin with. He's been bluffing the whole time!"

"Good guess, but I assure you, there's a fake," Kido laughed. "Yanagisawa's power is Copy, and that's why your seals don't work. He has the ability not only to copy someone's appearance, but their voice, their mannerisms, their memories, and yes, even this so-called energy print. He could copy your own mother and you would never tell the difference, even with your little magic stickers,"

Sakura's heart sank. That's… not good.

"Bastard!" Yusuke hissed.

Kido glanced at his wrist. "From what my watch says, your time's run out. In a few moments, I'm going to release you. Then it will be decision time. I want you to approach the person you think is the imposter, and hit them as hard as you can!"

"Are you insane?!" Yusuke gasped. Everyone else looked stunned at this order as well.

Kido shrugged. "Sorry, champ. But that's the only way to disarm Yana's power. He has to be hit so hard that it knocks him unconscious. And of course, if you choose the wrong person, I'll have your captive friend killed along with your sister. So try to be smart, ok?"

"What's your deal?" Yusuke demanded. "What do you get out of doing all this to us?"

"I was wondering when you'd ask that," Kido chuckled. "You've made a lot of friends and enemies, Yusuke, and now we're doing one of them a special favour. Now make your pick,"

At last, he stepped off Yusuke's shadow, freeing him. Yusuke stumbled slightly as his rubbery limbs were able to move again. He righted himself almost immediately, and stared at his four friends. Which one was the imposter? If he was wrong, his sister and whoever else would be endangered.

"You only have thirty seconds to choose," Kido taunted while lifting the phone halfway to his ear. "I could just order the hostages killed and save you the trouble,"

Yusuke was sweating slightly. Kurama. Hiei. Botan. Kuwabara. There was only one chance to get this right…

"Fifteen seconds," Kido began, but Yusuke interrupted.

"Enough. I've decided," He raised his powerful fist. "Just don't take this personally,"

Yusuke charged forward, ready to strike. "I hope I'm right!"

Sakura was reduced to watching through her fingers. He passed Kurama, Hiei, and Botan...

Kuwabara went pale. "Uh-oh!"

Yusuke's punch slammed directly into Kuwabara's jaw and he was propelled across the room. Amidst the shouting, his body began to morph and Yanagisawa was revealed. He hit the opposite wall and slid down with a crash.

The others stared in disbelief. For a moment, nobody spoke.

Sakura suddenly realised that she was bleeding. She'd clenched her fists so tightly while watching that her nails had sliced right through the palms of her hands.

"Wow," Kido marvelled. "You actually figured it out. How did you know that the imposter was Kuwabara?"

"I chose him because I know he's used to me pounding his face in, if nothing else," Yusuke lowered his fist, but didn't turn around. "Besides, Hiei and Kurama are too smart and untrusting. They'd never just walk right into your trap,"

"Yes," Kurama said pointedly. "Or scream the word hot,"

Hiei glared at him. "Hmph!"

"Now that still left Botan," Yusuke continued. "And if you dirtbags were low enough to take advantage of the only non-fighter, it wouldn't matter if I lost. Even if you killed me, I would come back from the dead and drop-kick your ass. So Kuwabara was the safest bet,"

Botan smiled tearfully. "My hero!"

"I must say, I'm impressed," Kido smiled.

Yusuke whirled around with a snarl. "Hooray for you. Now where's my sister?!"

"If she's been hurt in any way…" Kurama stepped forward.

Kido shook his head and pulled out another remote. "Not to worry, Kurama,"

The button was pressed, and the wall Yana had fallen against split open. There was a hidden door behind it.

Inside the room, Sakura turned quickly. The steel bars over her side of the door were sliding away. She hurried over and tried the door handle. It turned smoothly, and she stepped outside into the darkened room.

"KURA!"

Several voices shouted her name at once. She didn't even have time to blink before Yusuke had tackled her to the ground in a hug.

He pulled away and stared at her. "You really are Kura, right?" he said frantically.

"Y-yes, I -"

"How old were you when you started wearing a bra?!" Yusuke shook her. "How old?!"

Sakura went bright red. "What?!"

"Just tell me!" Yusuke said fiercely. "I need to know you aren't a fake - OW! What the hell was that for, you damn brat?!"

"I was eleven!" Sakura hissed. "Now calm down!"

Yusuke stopped rubbing his head and seized her in an embrace again.

"It's definitely you. Are you ok?"

"Yes," Sakura hugged him back. Tears were pricking at her eyes. "I was so worried about you, Yusuke,"

Finally, Kurama was there. "Kura, what's happened?"

He sounded worried, and as Sakura caught sight of the sticker she'd attached to him, it was easy to see why. Her badge had gone from blue to yellow.

"Kurama," Sakura gently extracted herself from Yusuke's grip and fell into her lover's arms. "It's nothing, just a few scratches," she explained, holding out her hands. "I could see everything from that room. Guess I just got a little worked up…"

Kurama inspected the minor cuts before stroking her face. "It's alright now, my love," he murmured. "Botan?"

The Grim Reaper rushed over. "I'll have that fixed in no time,"

"How sweet," Kido's voice was derisive.

Yusuke stood up and advanced on him. "The game's over. Now cough up Kuwabara!"

"And he better not be injured!" Botan added sternly.

"Kuwabara is just fine, and I will return him to you in the very near future," Kido replied. "But first, I'd like to introduce you to the master of this plan,"

Sakura held her breath. Was the Mastermind about to emerge? Kurama tightened his arms around her slightly. The slanted door behind Kido slid open, and someone came out.

Yusuke gasped. Botan made a sound of confusion and disbelief.

Sakura's jaw dropped again. "Genkai?!"

The tiny old woman stood before them, with a serene smile on her withered face.

"I… can't believe it," Yusuke gawked. "Why would you do something like this?" He shook his head. "TELL ME YOU CRAZY OLD HAG!"

"I'm sorry!" Kido had fallen to his knees and bowed while apologising profusely. "I'm so, so sorry! All of you! It wasn't personal, I swear!"

Sakura stared at him. That untouchable, smug persona he'd worn seconds ago had completely fallen away.

"Cool it with the theatrics, Kido," Genkai sighed. "I'm the one who came up with most of this, after all,"

Kurama smiled knowingly. "You never cease to surprise me, Genkai. I thought you might be behind this little ruse,"

That was too much for Sakura. This chaotic mess was getting stranger and stranger. Just trying to keep up was enough to make her head spin.

"This doesn't make any sense!" Yusuke clutched his head and looked at Kurama. "Why don't you explain it, Fox Boy, because I am obviously going nuts!"

"She was trying to teach us a very valuable lesson," Kurama explained patiently. "A lesson about perception,"

Genkai nodded without a hint of remorse. "Yes, and it's a lesson you must learn very well. I guarantee this won't be the last time you come in contact with individuals who possess the power of territory,"

Sakura opened her mouth but no words would come out. Genkai… that explained everything…

"Kurama, when did you realise it was Genkai?" Botan asked.

"When we had reached the top of the stairs," Kurama kept his arms around Sakura. "I realised that, clever as they were, they weren't playing for keeps. And the penny dropped. This was training, and there was only one person devious enough to put us through our paces like that,"

Hiei finally spoke up. "You still haven't given us a reason. You haven't sufficiently explained what you're trying to accomplish just by rubbing their powers in our faces,"

"You may all be well-trained fighters," Genkai folded her arms. "However, as three of you have found out, there will be instances when your physical strength will not be able to help you. So you must depend on your mind. If you had used that lump three feet above your ass, you might've held onto your soul,"

She squinted at Hiei. "Make that two feet for you,"

Yusuke turned to Hiei in astonishment. "Are you for real?" he said incredulously. "You actually let those jerks steal your soul? Show some skill!"

"Oh and what about you, dimwit?!" Genkai rounded on Yusuke.

Yusuke waved his hands dismissively. "Oh come on! I wouldn't have been caught had I known about that Shadow thing,"

Sakura was about to point out the obvious flaw in his logic, but Genkai beat her to it.

"Are you foolish enough to think that one of your enemies would just hand over that information?" the old woman snapped.

Sakura finally found her voice. "She's got a point, you know,"

"Who's side are you really on, Squirt?!" Yusuke yelled, ears turning red.

"If an enemy captures you, you're as good as dead," Genkai said haughtily. "If you remember anything, remember that,"

Yusuke held up a hand. "Time out, Grandma. You keep saying 'enemy', but these scrubs aren't actually bad, right? So who the hell are they?"

"Go on. Inform them, Kido,"

"Yes Master," Kido raised his head. "Kaito, Yana and I, we all went to her compound for advice when we developed our powers. That's where we learned about you, Yusuke. And your team," He swallowed. "The truth is, we've only had these new abilities for about a month, same with all the other new psychics,"

Botan looked alarmed. "New psychics?"

"The cause of which is our greatest threat!" Genkai growled.

Her ominous tone was enough to send shivers down Sakura's spine. "What's going on, Genkai?"

"I assume some of you have already noticed the demon insects flying through the city?" Genkai grunted.

Kurama gasped. He knew exactly what Genkai was referring to. "You don't mean…?"

"Someone is carving out a tunnel to the Demon World," Genkai informed them. "Sakyo's plan from the Dark Tournament was not buried with him,"

Sakyo.

The very sound of his name turned Sakura's stomach. Was he alive after all?

"What do you mean, Sakyo's plan?" Yusuke frowned.

"Yeah, Genkai just filled me in," Everyone looked over. The real Kuwabara had appeared in the doorway.

"Apparently Koenma found out and never told us. Sakyo wanted money so he could drill some Doomsday tunnel,"

Yusuke gave him a look. "But more importantly, we've answered the question. Boxers or briefs?"

Sakura giggled. The seriousness of Kuwabara's words were slightly undermined by the fact that he was standing there in his underpants.

Kuwabara went pink. "Would you be serious for a second?!" he yelped. "It's not my fault that idiot stole my clothes!" He stormed over to Yana while muttering obscenities under his breath.

"But how could this be?" Botan asked quickly. "I thought Sakyo died when he blew up the stadium!"

"He's dead," Genkai said promptly. "We're sure of that. And now he's rolling in his grave because someone continued his plan without him,"

Yusuke swallowed hard. "It just keeps going…"

Sakura still couldn't seem to form words. A memory that she'd tried to bury seemed to be nudging her, begging to be re-examined.

"I remember now…" she said faintly.

Right after Hiei had destroyed the stadium in his match against Bui, she'd slipped off and ended up outside the VIP room where Sakyo had been discussing his plans with Scarface - well, now known to be Haruki - and of course, that woman. And she'd accidentally overheard their conversation. His words hadn't made any sense at the time...

"Ah, but let's not forget the tunnel," Sakyo began. "Just imagine the world once it's been completed…"

His voice trailed off. "Oh dear. It seems I've said too much already, when there are prying ears around,"

The walls Sakura had put up for protection seemed to crumble. Sakyo might as well be leering over her again, staring at her with those cold, merciless eyes...

"So that's what he meant," she murmured.

Botan looked over in alarm. "Kura? Kura, honey? You don't look so good,"

Maybe it was the stress of the past few hours catching up with her. Maybe it was the pain of remembering. Either way, Sakura looked up and opened her mouth to speak, but everything was fading. She'd never felt so dizzy before...

"Kura?" Kurama's voice sounded muted. "Kura?!"

She'd already fainted dead away.

A.N. Oh boy. This is where things are really going to pick up. In the meantime, what did you think of this chapter? And now that we're about to get to Mushiyori City, what do you think will happen?

Chapter 11 will be released by September 1st. I continue to thank all of you for all the reviews. Please keep them coming. Things are going to get complicated and intense very soon and knowing how much you all want to stick with Sakura keeps me going when it's hard.

Next Chapter: Team Urameshi learns of their next big challenge. Meanwhile, Sensui is ready to make the first move, along with Haruki...