AN: Thank you guest for leaving a review. I really appreciate it! ^^ Yu Yu Hakusho is a classic anime that I can always rewatch. I'm happy that I didn't give up on this story. Enjoy~
"Too slow!" Grandfather Saito stated despite Tsuki's spirit arrow racing quickly towards his face. He raised his white fan and with a flick of his wrist created a small barrier that blocked her attack.
Tsuki stood tall and ready. The arrow that he reflected was coming straight towards her. Taking a deep breath, she aimed.
A white beam shot out, colliding with the arrow. Tsuki covered her eyes as the grey smoke caused by the impact blinded her grandfather's whereabouts. She knew she had to act quickly in order to catch him off guard.
Tsuki ran through the smoke, hoping to sneak up and gain the upper hand. She glanced around and tried her best not to make a sound.
As the smoke began to clear, Tsuki spotted a slight movement through her peripheral vision. Finally! She lifted her arm to take a shot. "Spirit beam!"
The beam made direct contact with his barrier, but it held with ease. Tsuki kept persisting. A barrier could only handle so much. She walked closer until she was a few inches away from him.
Tsuki heard a crackling sound and smile. Soon he'll be out in the open.
Knowing that it was going to break, he raised his left land. "That's enough sparring for today."
She released her attack and bowed after his barrier was gone.
"Thank you for training with me, grandfather." Tsuki calmly said. Deep down inside, she was ecstatic! This was her first time ever breaking his barrier. He usually was the one breaking hers.
"You're getting better. You've always been a wonderful student. Yes, you're stubborn. But despite that, I knew you had potential ever since you were born. Your mother was dancing in joy when you were able to sense the presence of a spirit when you were only 2! She must be dancing in the heavens right now." Grandfather Saito glanced at the clear blue sky. "Your attitude has changed. I was surprised you wanted to train today. More than usual. Why the change of heart?"
It was typical for her grandfather to notice her change of action. He was right though. On a Sunday, Tsuki was usually studying, playing her koto, or doing chores around the shrine. When Grandfather Saito asked her to spar for a little, she bickered and stubbornly stood her ground. Sunday was the time to regenerate and get ready for her normal life.
"I've talked to mom. I told her I was going to accept my priestess duty. In the Human World, we're the most vulnerable. We can die at any given moment. Don't get me wrong, I'm still going to have a normal life. But as part of the Saito tribe, I want to protect the Human World as much as possible."
Tsuki sat down on the grass and stretched her legs. "I also told her that I won't die so soon."
"That's a big promise to make." He crossed his arms. "We don't know when our clock is going to stop ticking. All we can do is live our life to the fullest without any regrets."
"I know that, but I'll do anything in my will power to live a long fulfilling life. I'll be a professional musician and travel around the world before starting a family. Grandfather, I know you're not going to die anytime soon. I just want to be prepared before that happens. I'm the only surviving Saito that you have. The future depends on me."
Grandfather Saito sighed. "True, you're my only granddaughter. And realistically, this world is changing. There's not a lot of people that are attune with the spiritual side of life. I have watched this world through my own eyes get consumed with the deadly sins. I was surprised when I met your grandmother. She wasn't a priestess. However, she had a strong spiritual energy about herself."
Tsuki lowered her gaze. "Were you disappointed in my father?"
"Tsuki, you were the best thing to ever happen in our lives. However, my daughter met your father at a very young age. I knew instantly he wasn't ready. He only came to visit you once and never came back. She didn't even bother to track him down. I guess she was glad that she had you. Tsuki, your mother was right to allow you to focus on your independence. A priestess is going to attract a lot of different types of energy. Make sure you pick a man that's strong mentally, physically, and spiritually."
"Don't worry, I'm still young. I definitely have time to fall in love with the right person. I just want to make sure the Saito tribe is secured before you leave the Human Word."
"Well until that day comes, I'll be here every step of the way. You deserve all of your dreams to come true. It's going to be a tough battle. Though your determination is going to take you far."
"Thank you, grandfather," Tsuki stated. "I just hope my training will be enough to defeat Hiei. He's the last of the thieves and honestly, I want this situation to be over as quickly as possible. That demon is nothing but trouble."
"Well, I'm honored you were thinking about me!"
Tsuki shivered when she heard that familiar malicious voice. This is why she needed to train. He was without a doubt an unpredictable demon.
They instinctively scanned the tall trees that scattered around the grassy field. It didn't take long for them to spot the red eyes of the little devil glaring at them.
Once their eyes locked, Tsuki winced and touched her forehead. Hiei's feelings of Yusuke and her were pure hatred. He wanted to slice their heads off when he watched the human loving Kurama simply surrender the Forlorn Hope. And he had the desire to personally kill the muscle brain Goki when he foolishly allowed a mere human to catch him off guard.
Tsuki having enough of his intimidation blocked his negative thoughts away. "I'm not scared of you, Hiei!" She wasn't backing down. Her bracelet transformed while she got into her fighting stance.
Grandfather Saito squinted his eyes. "So that's the demon you've battled. How interesting he found our spot. Usually, a mere demon couldn't even breathe in our area, but I see the determination in his eyes. He's ready to annihilate."
"What are you doing here?" Tsuki questioned.
Hiei stood proudly on top of the high branches. "Isn't it obvious, priestess? I came to kill you."
He landed on the ground, lifting the demonic sword in his hand. His left leg stepped forward. "I'll make you an example by slicing you in half!" He ran with full speed. "Once I'm done with you, I'm sure that detective will come find me!"
Grandfather Saito pushed Tsuki's arm down before she could shoot a beam in his direction.
"Grandfather?"
He winked. "Stay back. I'll show you the true potential of the Saito tribe."
Hiei laughed. "Really old man? You think you're a match for me? Let's see how well your wrinkle body can dodge my sword!"
He slashed downwards. Grandfather Saito went to his blind side and blocked it with his fan.
"Tch, that was luck!" Hiei reacted quickly and tried to uppercut but again, her grandfather stepped to the right just enough for the blade to pass his face.
Tsuki eyes widen. She never knew her grandfather had so much stamina and speed! No matter how hard Hiei tried to slash at him, Grandfather Saito swiftly ducked and dodged. He was effortlessly reading the demon's movements.
"I admit, old man," The sword made contact with the fan again. "You're not weak. But you still won't be able to beat me!"
Grandfather Saito skidded back and made a barrier surrounding him and Tsuki.
Hiei walked towards them and jumped mid air. "A barrier? Ha! I can certainly destroy it!"
"Spirit beam!" The beam was shaped like a cannon! Tsuki watched Hiei scurried to the side, dodging the beam at the last second.
In his haste to escape the beam, Hiei stumbled and fell to the ground. Despite his mishap, the demon immediately jumped and swiftly backed away.
Tsuki's mouth was gaped open. She was unable to move as her grandfather made firm and precise movements.
"What's wrong? Aren't you going to destroy my barrier? Very well, I'll attack you again. Spirit arrow!" Five arrows that were the size of small missiles escaped through Grandfather Saito's barrier with lightning speed.
Hiei managed to slice one arrow in half as it sped towards him. Despite that, he still had to maneuver his way from the other four arrows. He ran for cover within the trees, but watched as one tree took a direct hit from an arrow and exploded. Trying to escape the barrage of the rest of the arrows he tried to jump through through the tree, only to have the fallen trees topple upon him.
All they heard was a grunt as Hiei rustled between the fallen branches. Tsuki leaned forward and crossed her fingers. She hoped the psycho would remain down.
"What's wrong demon?" Grandfather Saito taunted. "Be a man and come fight me! Your kind has always underestimated us humans. Don't forget who created the Kekkai barrier to stop you from harming the Human World!"
The fire demon pushed the fallen trees off of him. A few leaves were scattered across his spiky hair with fresh scratches appearing on his face. He clenched his jaw and shook his fist.
"Damn you!" Hiei roared before disappearing into the woods. "Mark my words priestess, I'll have my revenge!" His voice echoed with sharpness that pierced Tsuki's heart.
Her grandfather snorted. "That demon is clever. He knew he wasn't going to win. You're right, granddaughter. He's a tricky one."
Tsuki stared at her grandfather with new admiration and respect. The only close action she got to experience was him taking down a human eating spider with one blast. She heard stories, but experiencing it was purely entertaining. "That was incredible. You never went that far with my training!"
Grandfather Saito smirked. "Your mother told me to start training you slowly. Baby steps, granddaughter. But if you want, I can train you to the next level. It's going to be difficult though."
"I accept the challenge."
"That's what I like to hear. Now, let's go back. I'm starving for some eggs and rice."
Tsuki squinted her eyes at the fallen trees. She knew Hiei was going to plan something major soon.
"Come on. I doubt we'll see that demon for the rest of the day."
Of course, but when? That was the question.
"I'm not surprised he came to attack you, Tsuki," Botan stated as she fondled over her yellow tie. In order to keep a discreet profile, the grim reaper was wearing their school uniform. So far, no one noticed or even cared about her presence. "We knew he was coming sooner or later."
Tsuki sighed as she watched the students eating their lunch underneath the sakura tree. "If my grandfather wasn't there...he would've definitely had me."
"Well, it's time to go on the offense. We'll use the remaining three days to track him down." Yusuke walked towards the fence. "I'm sure he wouldn't try the same tactic again. He may be a lunatic, but he's not stupid."
"Well, out of all of them, Hiei is the most cunning and ruthless one. He'll resort to anything to get what he wants." Botan leaped down and clapped her hands. "Now for some good news, Kurama seemed to be pardoned for his involvement with the treasures. Lord Koenma decided to give him another chance. He's going to be released on good behavior."
"That's great." Tsuki eyes lit up. After interacting with the fox demon, she had a different perspective about him. He was a kind-hearted person that was willing to do anything to keep his mother alive.
They heard the door open. "Yusuke Urameshi, I need to speak with you!"
Yusuke growled. "What do you want now Keiko?!" Since this morning, Keiko has been nagging him more than usual.
"Don't 'Keiko' me! You're the only one that hasn't turned in your homework assignment." She pointed at him. "For seeing the light, you surely haven't been using it to do your book report!"
Tsuki chuckled. "I told him to do it, but he insisted he had other important things to do." She knew from experience that it was hard to balance school and outside work. However, that excuse didn't stop her from finishing it. After all, one of her goals was to study music in college.
"Takenaka-sensei is looking for you. You better go to the office."
"You're such a bother. I don't have time for that now!"
"Bother?! Why you-" She was interrupted by a grinning Botan standing in front of her.
The grim reaper reached for Keiko's hand and began to excessively shake it in greeting. "Hello Keiko! My name is Botan. It's a pleasure to finally meet you! Don't worry about Yusuke. He may be rude sometimes, but deep down he cares!"
"Huh? Have we met before?" She asked, giving her a confused look.
"No, well not exactly face to face. I've seen you while you were in that awful fire and-hey ow!" Botan held her head and glared at Yusuke who just hit her. "What was that for?!"
The spirit detective leaned in. "Remember Botan, Keiko doesn't know anything other than the Human World," he whispered urgently.
Tsuki nodded, relieved that he stopped her in time. She thought Botan would be more secretive since she's the grim reaper AND personal assistant of Lord Koenma.
"Oh you're right." Botan nervously laughed. She backed away already close to the door. "So sorry for the confusion. Let me go see if the principal has my documents ready. I'll see you guys soon."
"See you?" Keiko blinked puzzled at the new girl and turned to them. "And just who that may be?"
"It's a long story. Let's not talk about that. You said Takenaka-sensei needed me?"
"Oh, really? Tsuki, how do you know her?"
"She's new. Yusuke introduced me to her." Technically, the priestess was speaking the truth.
The back of Tsuki's hair suddenly stood up. She gazed around. Someone was watching them closely.
"Never mind that." Yusuke wrapped his arms around Keiko's shoulder. "How would you like to do my homework?"
Keiko blushed a little, but turned her head away from his goofy face. "Is that the only thing I'm good for?"
"Well Tsuki, Botan, and I are going to be busy today. It'll be beneficial if you could help me with my assignment." Yusuke spoke sweetly, but Keiko unraveled his arm. "It's not what you think!"
"Let me guess, another spiritual cleansing? Don't worry, I won't pry."
"Hey, Keiko. Wait up! Listen to me!" The spirit detective followed her to the door.
Tsuki couldn't ignore the feeling. Again, she observed the clear blue sky, the trees, and even the students. There was nothing catching her eye.
Maybe I'm just imagining things.
She wasn't imagining things. Ever since they came back from lunch, Tsuki couldn't help but glance out the window. No matter how hard she tried to ignore it, her instinct was screaming for her to look.
"Saito," Takenaka-sensei said as he closed the lecture book. "I know class is almost over, but don't be so anxious to go home. You don't even know what's going to be on the test!"
Tsuki blushed and looked down at her desk while some students snickered at her inattentiveness. "Apologies, sensei."
After another 10 minutes, the bell finally rang.
"Now class, don't forget. The test is in two weeks. Study hard! You're all dismissed except for Urameshi."
Yusuke groaned and slouched on the desk. "Seriously, can't this wait?"
"No, it can't! Just because you came back from the dead, that doesn't mean you have special privileges. You have A LOT of homework to catch up with. If you still want to graduate in time, stop slacking off!"
While Yusuke was busy with the teacher, Tsuki decided to patrol the neighborhood. Hopefully she will find the stalker. Yusuke and Botan could meet up with her later.
"Keiko," Tsuki stated as she came to her desk. This was also the perfect time to talk to her friend. Ever since they came back from lunch, Keiko hasn't spoken a word to her. "Let's walk home together."
After putting her notebook inside her backpack, Keiko finally got up. She didn't even bother to make eye contact with Tsuki. "No thanks. Don't want Yusuke and Botan to keep you waiting."
She brushed past and headed out the classroom. She didn't even say goodbye to Yusuke who had his head on the desk as Takenaka-sensei continued to lecture him.
Tsuki quickly followed her.
"Wait! I'm sorry if we're acting weird but there's nothing going on." She gave her a pleading look. "Believe me."
"Tsuki," Keiko huffed. "I've given you enough space to allow you to trust me. Maybe I'm not worthy of your support."
"That's not true! We've been friends for years. I just would never put you in a predicament that could seriously harm you!"
"Does Botan know? She seems to be very close with you guys."
Tsuki bit her lip and looked away. She couldn't stand looking at Keiko's eyes that were filled with emotions of sadness, betrayal, and anger.
"I thought so." Keiko turned and walked away.
Tsuki didn't bother to chase after her. Keiko needed her space. Maybe the priestess just needed to focus on patrolling.
Before she headed downstairs, one of Keiko's friends came towards her. She had a tiny notebook in her hand.
"Tsuki! Did Keiko already leave?"
"Yes." She tried to go, but the girl quickly stood in front of her.
"Oh darn, can you please return it to her? She needs it for the test. I know you guys don't live too far from each other. I have cram school tonight and my mom is already here to pick me up."
"Ok." She grabbed the notebook and put it in her backpack.
"Thanks Tsuki, I'll see you tomorrow!" She waved and went back inside the classroom.
Tsuki hurriedly walked down the school steps and exited out the building. She couldn't have gotten far. Probably another block and she would see Keiko walking.
"Tsuki, where are you going?" Botan asked as she came towards the entrance gate.
"I'm going to talk to Keiko for a bit. She's starting to question our extra curricular activities. Have you seen her?"
"No I haven't. I just got here. You don't think I was the cause of it?" Botan frowned. "I apologized. I just wanted to get acquainted with her."
"Well no, but you were the icing on the cake. Keiko has had suspicions of us since Yusuke was revived. I just have to give her this notebook and patrol the neighborhood. Someone's been watching and my senses tell me it's Hiei. We need to get ready."
"Ok, I'll wait for Yusuke. Be careful, Tsuki."
The priestess walked steadily. She didn't want their friendship to be strained. It wasn't like them to act this way towards each other. But knowing Keiko, she'll get even more suspicious. There had to be a way to gain back her trust.
"Priestess," someone faintly whispered.
Tsuki stopped in her tracks. She was alone. Where was this voice coming from?
"Priestess, hurry." This time, the voice inside her head was loud and clear.
"Where are you Hiei?!" Tsuki yelled.
"Don't yell, priestess. I'm just around the corner. You might want to hurry up. Don't you want to give Keiko her notebook?"
Tsuki's heart dropped. Her feet instantly sprinted towards his direction. All she could hear was merciful laughter echoing inside her head. She turned to the corner.
Just as she feared, Keiko was unconscious on the floor. Behind her was Hiei holding the demonic sword.
"Well, well, well priestess. I'm impressed. You immediately felt my presence. You even knew I was watching you from your school."
Tsuki's bracelet transformed into her divine bells.
Hiei swiftly pointed the sword on Keiko's neck. "Not so fast. One more move and she dies."
"Damn you." Her hand was shaking. However, she dared not to shoot an arrow at his head.
Hiei laughed. "I could feel your hatred from here, priestess. I love it. Too bad your grandfather isn't here to assist you. Or better yet, your little pet. Now, where are the treasures?"
"I don't have them."
"Wrong answer."
Tsuki helplessly watched as he grabbed Keiko's arm and roughly pulled half of her body on top of his shoulder. "Here's what I need you to do. Tell that idiot and the grim reaper to bring the treasures to me if you want this girl to live."
She gritted her teeth. "You won't get away with this."
"Less talk, more action. I wouldn't waste time if I was you, priestess. Who knows what will happen if she stays in this state." With that, he disappeared from her sight.
Tsuki ran back to the school. By the time she made it to the entrance, Yusuke and Botan were already by the gate. By the looks on their faces, Hiei already made contact with them.
"...I'm sorry…" Tsuki humphed. "He had Keiko before I could come close. All of this for some stupid treasures!"
"That bastard. I swear he's going to get a severe beat down."
"Not if I get my hands on him first." First her grandfather, now her friend. Hiei was taking things way too personal.
Botan held the demon detector in her hand. "Let's head to my car. It'll be easy to track him since he's using his demonic energy to take us to his hideout."
While they sprinted towards the car, Tsuki explained everything.
"Ugh, that shrimp. I swear, he's going to pay!"
"I never knew Hiei had the power of Jagan. This information wasn't on the criminal records." Botan unlocked the car.
Yusuke looked confused as they got inside. "What's the Jagan?"
"He's able to read minds and send telepathic messages," Tsuki simply stated. "He told me where Keiko was. He was thrilled to see me in despair when I spotted her on the floor. He wants to destroy us, mentally and physically."
"Not going to happen. Once we get Keiko, it's over for him."
The sun was coming down as they made it to the boat harbor. As Botan drove towards the gate, they noticed the area was eerily quiet.
"That's strange. Where are the guards? Usually someone is here on the post."
The gate suddenly slidded open.
"Well someone just opened it. They know Hiei is expecting us."
The boat harbor was empty and quiet. No security. No workers. Nothing. All they spotted were large crates, boats, and the sea.
"Where is he?" Yusuke grumbled. "He sure wasn't being specific about his location. Too many factories."
"Welcome, priestess. I'm in factory 4."
"He's in factory 4." Tsuki repeated.
"How do you know?"
"He just told me." She was seriously getting annoyed by his voice inside her head.
Botan parked the car. "Well at least we didn't have to thoroughly search for him!"
"Yes, more time to fight!"
They got out of the car and headed to the factory. As they slid the door open, they spotted nothing but enormous crates.
"Come out Hiei! I'm going to kick your ass!"
Silence. Tsuki observed the room. The lights were dimmed, but they were able to see around the large tight area.
"I know you hear me!"
Silence.
Yusuke growled in frustration. "Come out you coward!"
Six men came out. Their eyes were dark and lifeless as they slowly walked towards them.
"Looks like we know what he did with the employees," Tsuki explained.
"Show yourself Hiei! Don't hide behind these men!"
The men growled and dashed towards them.
"Damn it." Yusuke cracked his fists. "I'm going to find you when this is over!"
Tsuki stepped in front while she concentrated.
"Let me handle this, Yusuke. Save your strength for Hiei!" She was certain she could do it. Watching her grandfather yesterday allowed her to become assured and confident of her power. "Spirit beam!"
Six beams shot out and hit the men's unguarded chests. They gasped and instantly passed out on the floor.
"Whoa, nice!"
Botan observed the unconscious men. "He controlled so many all at once. Is this the power of the Jagan?"
"That's correct." Hiei stated as he came from the shadows. Next to him was Keiko who was held by his slaves. She was still unconscious.
"Hand over Keiko!" Tsuki demanded.
"Where are the treasures?"
Yusuke quickly tossed the Forlorn Hope and Orb of Baast on the ground. He glared at Hiei. "Give us Keiko, now."
"Impatient are we? You seemed to forget who runs this show! If you don't stick to the rules, the game isn't fun anymore." The fire demon picked up the items. He eyed them carefully to make sure they were real. "Slaves, let her go."
They tossed Keiko towards them. Tsuki caught her and gently laid her body on the ground. She was still breathing and her spirit energy wasn't damaged. So far, she seemed alright.
Yusuke came next to her. His tense expression softened when he noticed Keiko's face untouched.
Hiei grinned as he grabbed the treasures and put them inside his black coat. "They're finally mine. Of course, it didn't go as planned. I had intended to kill Kurama and Goki anyway. It doesn't matter. They're finally mine!"
The spirit detective laughed. "Yours? You're stupid than I thought." He ran towards him. "As long Keiko is safe, this gives me the opportunity to kick your ass and retrieve the treasures back!"
Yusuke threw the first punch, but Hiei ducked and dissapeared.
"What the...did he just vanish?"
"Vanished? Oh no, I was just strolling." He was right behind him.
"Be careful Yusuke. He's fast. It's better to work together!" Tsuki ran. However, the two security guards who held Keiko blocked her way.
She backed away as they tried to grab her shoulders. They were too close. She needed range to strike. "Damn it Hiei!"
Hiei smirked. "I know my low level slaves won't keep you too much company, but I want to have fun with the detective." He turned back to Yusuke. "You said I was stupid? I think you're the stupid one."
Yusuke gasped as Hiei's third eye began opening. "Do you really think I returned the girl to you unharmed? Idiot! Check her forehead!"
They quickly focused their attention on Keiko's forehead. It was true. An eye was slowly opening up in the center.
Hiei laughed. "I've returned the body to you, but her life is really still in my hands! When that eye completely opens, she'll become my first demon slave!"
Finally, Tsuki was distant enough to strike. "Go to sleep! Spirit beam!"
Once the men fainted, Tsuki ran towards Botan who was using her energy to stop Keiko's transformation.
As her divine bells transformed back into her bracelet, Tsuki kneeled down and channeled her spiritual energy towards her right hand.
"You won't get away from this!"
"Spare me, priestess. If you didn't allow me to kill you, your friend wouldn't be in this predicament!"
Luckily, the eye was successfully closing.
"It seems the priestess and reaper has the power to neutralize the demon's sword demonic energy. However, without the help of magical herbs, the burden of the healer is very great."
Botan and Tsuki winced in pain. The combination of Hiei and the sword's demonic energy was indeed powerful. Tsuki could feel the thousands of souls of the innocent crying to be free from their imprisonment.
Help me!
Save me!
I'm dying!
"He's right," Tsuki furrowed her eyebrows. "We can only hold it for a short amount of time. We have to defeat him!"
"Stay back! Let me handle this!"
"Yusuke! Don't be stubborn! It's better that we work together!"
"No time! Keep Keiko from not turning into a low class demon. The more spirit energy the better."
Hiei lifted up the sword. "Very well human. Since a weakling like you desperately wants to save your lover, I'll give you a hint. The antidote is between the blade and hilt of this sword. She won't survive unless she takes it. All you have to do is snatch the sword." He laughed evilly. "I highly doubt you can for another 100 years."
"You talk too much." Yusuke suddenly appeared right in front of him and punched him on the side of the face.
"Nice one Yusuke!" Tsuki cheered.
Hiei eyes widened. He was able to recuperate and flip backwards.
"You matched my speed in a split second. You're a completely different person."
Yusuke stepped forward. He gritted his teeth and glared. "I'm going to tear you apart."
"I see. When your companions are in danger, your power increases. Your type of human annoys me." Hiei wiped the blood from his mouth, staring intensely at Yusuke. "I'm impressed. Your move left a scar on my face. However, you didn't retrieve the demonic sword. I won't be careless anymore. The girl's third eye is opened. There's no way to stop her from turning into a de-."
Yusuke tried to punch him again. However, Hiei quickly moved out the way.
"Are you done blabbering?"
Hiei glowered at his calmed demeanor and scattered around him. "Don't you look down on me!"
He dashed left through right. Yusuke scanned his movements as much as possible.
Hiei disappeared until he was in midair. "HA! You can't even follow my shadow. Let's see if you can take this!"
"Look up!" Botan screamed.
Yusuke punched him again. "Is jumping around like the only thing you're good at? You're like a cockroach, depending on your Jagan eye. I don't want to waste anymore time with you."
Hiei wiped the blood out of his face and stood up. "To think I have to demonstrate my true form to a mere human." He took off his jacket and tossed it on the side, revealing his bare chest.
He flexed his body. His body turned monster green. As he charged his demonic energy, multiple purple eyes began to appear on his chest and arms. His pupils were now tainted in yellow.
"Ah!" Tsuki and Botan yelled. Now an invisible force was cutting their hands!
Keiko's third eye pushed open. With all her might, Tsuki's shaky hands gave out more spiritual energy. That eye needed to be closed!
Hiei laughed as he watched the ladies struggle. "You're lucky to have two spiritual women holding that eye. Your girlfriend would've been a slave by now if it wasn't for them. I wonder how long they can last now?"
"You're the devil!"
"Don't worry, priestess. Once I'm finished with this weakling, you and that reaper will be joining him in the other world!" He charged at Yusuke who stood shaking and unsure of the situation.
"Run! Get away from him!" Tsuki yelled. Should she summon Inari to assist Yusuke?
"Wait! H-'' Yusuke's sentence was cut short as Hiei punched him right in the face. He skidded through the floor.
I have to help! Before the priestess could even get up, Botan gave out a painful scream.
"Botan, are you alright?"
"I'm fine. It just...the more Hiei uses his powers...the more difficult it becomes to close the eye."
"I know." Tsuki winced as another fresh cut showed on her left hand. "Keep holding on. I'll figure out something."
She watched helplessly as Hiei touched his head and concentrated. His Jagan powers created a tight red rope around Yusuke's body. He slowly lifted him up in the air.
"Is that all you got?" The spirit detective taunted as he struggled to break free.
"You still don't know how to shut up huh?" He pushed him to the ground, hard.
Tsuki gasped. "I have to help!" Hiei already had the sword in his hand.
Before she could lift herself up, she and Botan spotted a figure running towards Yusuke and Hiei.
"It's Kurama!" Botan exclaimed.
Before they knew it, Kurama came between Hiei and Yusuke.
"You traitor!" A surprised Hiei yelled as he stabbed the fox demon in the stomach.
Using that to his advantage, Kurama immediately splattered his blood onto Hiei's third eye.
"AH!" Hiei yelled. He dropped the sword and stumbled back. "Damn you, Kurama!"
As soon as he did that, Yusuke became untied.
Keiko's eyes began to close fully again. The girls sighed in relief. The little pressure off was enough to put their body at ease.
The fox demon came towards them, clutching his stomach as his blood dripped down on the floor. The sword was held tight in his right hand.
"Are you alright?" Tsuki's widened eyes staring at the wound. "You don't look good at all."
Kurama kneeled down next to Botan and took a deep breath. Sweat was pouring down on his face, but he dropped the sword and extended his hand.
He gave Tsuki a small smile. "I'm fine. However, due to the minor cut that's in my stomach, I can only help stop the eye from opening. In order for the antidote to fully work, we must defeat the wielder. Go and help Yusuke. I can take care of your friend."
"Thanks, Kuruma." Tsuki stood up and closed her eyes. "Inari, let's finish this."
The two tail fox demon loudly roared before coming into the physical realm. Her bright white light began to shape into her fox form.
"It's been a while since I've seen a fox spirit." Kuruma whispered. His fixed gaze couldn't help but to be amazed by Inari's beautiful ivory fur and large fluffy tails. "Amazing."
"You got that right." Botan nodded in agreement.
Tsuki with Inari in front of her sprinted towards Yusuke and Hiei. Of course, the fire demon had the upper hand, but not anymore. "Inari, fox fire!"
Before Hiei can charge at Yusuke again, blue fire blocked his way. They turned to her.
"Yusuke, get the treasures!"
The spirit detective nodded and scurried towards Hiei's jacket.
"Well, well, well. The fox finally came out to play." Hiei sprinted towards them. "But is she quick?"
Inari tried to claw his chest, but Hiei jumped and kicked her face. She roared in pain and effortlessly fell to the ground.
"Inari!" Tsuki cried.
"Looks like your pet is n-" Hiei's sentence was cut short from an intense growl. He barely had time to turn around when another fox fire escaped from Inari's mouth.
The fire demon leaped away. He narrowed his eyes and obsessively observed the two foxes. "Don't tell me you have more than one pet."
"No demon. My pet gave you the taste of her illusion!" Tsuki smirked. "The Inari that you kicked was just a decoy."
The fallen fox disappeared into a puff of smoke.
Tsuki and Inari surrounded Hiei. They needed to end this as soon as Yusuke retrieved the treasures. What was taking him so long?
The priestess frowned when Yusuke ran back with no mirror or orb in his hand.
"Where are the treasures?"
"I have a plan. Stand by. I'll let you know when to strike."
"Not again, Yusuke." Tsuki groaned. "We have the upper hand. We can end this now!"
Yusuke stubbornly shook his hand. "Keiko is my long time friend. I can't let this go. I wouldn't be a man if I didn't defeat him."
Now she understood. It was not about Hiei having the upper hand, it was Yusuke taking revenge for his lover.
Hiei scoffed and dashed towards Yusuke. "I hate overly confident people like you. I have to finish you off, quickly."
Yusuke was barely able to keep up. The fire demon was able to land so many punches and kicks.
"See!" Hiei punched him in the face. "You can't even keep up!" The fire demon kicked the spirit detective straight towards the wall.
Yusuke yelled in frustration as he landed onto the ground.
"That's it!" Tsuki yelled. This could all be over if they attack now! Before she could take a step, Inari blocked her way.
"Inari?"
The two tail fox shook her head and stared at Tsuki's eyes.
"Ok, I'll wait for his signal." She grumbled, watching as Yusuke finally got up and began running away.
"Now who's the coward!" Hiei taunted. He was already close to his range.
Yusuke turned towards Hiei.
"Now, Tsuki!"
"Fox fire!"
Hiei jumped out the way while Yusuke tumbled to the side.
"That was your plan?"
"No, this is my plan!" He yelled as his hand began to glow bright blue. "Spirit gun!"
Hiei was surprised by the large blast. However, he easily dodged it.
"Looks like your plan fell again!"
Yusuke slumped to the ground.
"And your energy is drained! You should practicing your aiming befo-"
The spirit gun hit Hiei's back. "What happened?" He gasped. He was taken off guard from the surprised hit.
Yusuke smirked. "I won."
Hiei kneeled down. "But you missed."
He turned to Tsuki who just shook her head. She pointed at the cracked mirror.
"The Forlorn Hope." His body transformed back to human form. "I've guessed you knew where I was going to be at. You're pretty clever." Hiei fainted.
Yusuke grinned with triumph. "It's over. I told him I was going to kick his ass."
Tsuki pet Inari who growled happily. "Looks like he figured it out after all."
The mission was completed. The Human World was saved. And most importantly, Keiko was going to be alright.