AN: Thank you, Guest for the review. I'm always glad to see your message. And I'm thrilled you enjoyed the last chapter! ^^

UniversalGoddess

Shishiwakamaru smirked and threw the dice. "Fate decides."

Tsuki's eyes darted to the ground. The dice revealed Shishiwakamaru and the masked fighter's names.

"And I'm getting the signal from Juri on the floor! Looks like it'll be Shishiwakamaru vs. the masked fighter!" Koto announced. "But since the masked fighter is absent, it's going to be a random turn!"

"Heh, about time I took control." Shishiwakamaru eyed the Urameshi team mischievously. "Now, which one of you lovely fighters do I get to beat?"

Claps and whistles amplified the stadium. The demon fangirls displayed Shishiwakamaru's banners and signs throughout the rows of seats.

"We love you, Shishi! Make a kill for me, babe!"

"Team Urameshi has nothing on you!"

Tsuki sighed while confetti landed on her hair. She wasn't certain if she should be laughing or horrified by the fawning women.

"Iku," the spirit puppy shook his body and whimpered.

Koto's excitement grew. "Shishi definitely got a cheer section with him!" She gasped when bras and panties were thrown in the arena. "Oh! I think we lost some tops!"

Kurama removed a pink bra from his shoulder. "I guess Shishi loves pleasing women."

Hiei scowled. "Whatever helps stroke his obnoxious ego." He quickly flared a neon-green thong from his hand.

"Grrr, hey!" Kuwabara glared up while the fangirls continued to moan Shishiwakamaru's name. "Why doesn't someone cheer for me? A real man is attractive because he's tough, not because of charming good looks."

"Believe me, Kuwabara." Tsuki rolled her eyes when Shishiwakamaru walked closer. "I see right through his arrogant charm. He only cares about himself."

"Yes, you." Shishiwakamaru pointed at Kuwabara. "With the inferior face."

"Huh? You, you mean this one?" Kuwabara willingly pointed at his face, blinking twice.

"Well, of course. Who else would I've mean?" Shishiwakamaru used his hand to invite him to the ring. "You must be bored as a sideshow freak. Why don't you come fight?"

Kuwabara's face flushed. "That's it! I'll show you, pretty boy!" He climbed but lost his balance and fell back on the ground.

"Hmph," Hiei smirked. "What a fool."

"Seems Shishi struck a sensitive core," Kurama stated.

Tsuki's eyes narrowed. All she wanted to do was smack that arrogant smile off the weirdo's face. "He's too damn cocky for his own good. I hope he can back it up."

"Let me handle this," Hiei stated, smiling. "Shishiwakamaru appears to be their strongest fighter."

"No, I'll fight him," Kurama insisted. "Onji could be unpredictable. Recover your powers for the final match."

Tsuki glanced at both of them. She expected Hiei to volunteer, but Kurama caught her off guard.

Shishiwakamaru scoffed, his posture full of pride and cockiness. "You know all you're deciding is the order of defeat."

"Kurama," Hiei began, clearly annoyed. "It's obvious you only want to fight him so you can learn the secrets of that age reversal. We can't afford any priorities to rank above victory. You let me fight."

"No, I'm going this time," Tsuki spoke, her stubborn eyes staring into theirs. "You guys have done enough for today."

Kuwabara straightened himself up and palmed his fist. "Why are we even talking about it? This sissy-wakamaru punk just insulted me. He's all mine."

"I'll take this fight," Hiei pronounced with his chest out.

Kurama stepped forward, his tone aggressive. "No, it's mine."

Tsuki's voice rose. "No, I'm going."

"I'm fighting him!" Kuwabara's jaws clenched.

They glared at each other with eyes full of challenge and determination. No one wanted to back away from fighting the pretty boy.

Kurama sighed profoundly. "Perhaps this could only be decided with a game of Janken," he suggested.

"Oh yeah, bring it on!" Kuwabara declared eagerly. "I'm a rock, paper, scissors' master!"

Tsuki shrugged. "Fine by me."

"Janken? And what the hell is that?" Hiei demanded.

"Gee, man," Kuwabara sounded a bit sincere. "You really didn't have a childhood, huh?"

Hiei glared at him, gritting his teeth. "I pursue strength. I don't have time for your trivia-"

"It's a human game," Tsuki informed, cutting him off.

Kurama demonstrated the shapes. "Scissors is beat by rock, rock is beat by paper, and paper by scissors."

"Hmph." Hiei raised his chin, accepting the challenge. "Pitifully simple."

"So you ready to get beat, shrimp?" Kuwabara asked.

"Try me, fool."

"Ohhh, never played before, and he's already cocky. First-timers could only use rock by the way."

"Don't listen to him," Tsuki stated, rolling up her sleeves.

Kurama outstretched his hand and smiled. "He's only pulling your leg."

"1, 2, 3!" They chanted, swinging their fists down. Hiei and Kurama showed rock while Tsuki and Kuwabara revealed paper.

Kuwabara grinned. "Didn't know you were good, Tsuki." He outstretched his hand. "Looks like it's just you and me."

"Wait." Hiei's eyes sparked. "You made your sign a fraction after we did."

"Grrr, come on!" Kuwabara gulped, sweat pouring down his face. "It went by way too fast! How do we know you didn't make it up?"

"Trust me." Hiei stared straight into Kuwabara's eyes, his Jagan glowing. "I can see."

Koto sighed in frustration as the audience muttered in disbelief. "Unbelievable! Team Urameshi seems to be deciding who will fight with the game of paper, rock, scissors! I can hardly see the strategy behind this!"

Their eyes narrowed at each other. "1, 2, 3!" Kurama and Hiei revealed scissors. Tsuki and Kuwabara showed rock.

Kuwabara's mouth fell open. "Damn it, Tsuki. Again?"

Tsuki smiled. She enjoyed playing the Jaken game at Master Genkai's dojo. "What can I say? I'm highly spiritually aware."

Iku wagged his tail happily. "Iku!"

"Fair enough." Kuwabara gave a playful grin. "Best out of three. Let's do this."

"1, 2, 3!" They chanted. Tsuki displayed paper while Kuwabara revealed scissors.

"Woohoo! World champion!" Kuwabara raised his fists in the air. "Read it and weep you guys!"

"Hmmm," Hiei eyed his index and middle fingers disapprovingly.

Kurama pursed his lips as he crossed his arms. "Hmph."

"Great," Tsuki muttered, slumping her shoulders.

"Well, I would say from their body language that we definitely have a winner!" Koto announced in relief. "Kuwabara will be facing Shishiwakamaru! It'll be steel sword vs. energy sword in this vital 4th match!"

Kuwabara rolled his arm. "I won every single game of Janken I ever played!" His finger stabbed toward Shishiwakamaru. "And now I'll win against you!"

Shishiwakamaru put a clear cape around his shoulders. "Just get yourself in the ring."

Tsuki frowned, gut dropping. "That's strange. I haven't seen him reveal that cape before."

Kurama stared intently at Shishiwakamaru. "Yes, it's like he intended to use it for Kuwabara."

"You're dreamy, Shishi!" a demon woman moaned. "Give me your pants!"

"Beat that nasty beast! You're wayyyy cooler than him!"

"Yeah, you go ahead, ladies! Scream all you want! I don't need your stinkin support!" Kuwabara's eyes lit up. "I already got the best babe in the world. As long as she's watching, I'm invisible."

Tsuki's eyes filled with worry. "Be careful, Kuwabara. Shishiwakamaru is hiding something."

"Don't worry." Kuwabara climbed in, proceeding to the middle. "I got the pretty boy."

Shishiwakamaru's eyes glistened while the girls fawned over him. They screamed louder as he stared to his right and left.

"Well, Shishiwakamaru. Those girls are really into you," Kuwabara stated casually. "Too bad after I'm done with you, you'll be chop-suey-wakamaru!"

"Noooo!" A fangirl whined. "Hurt one hair on his pretty head, and we'll kick your ugly butt!"

"No one wants to kiss you, loser!"

Kuwabara's eyes bulged while his eyebrows twitched. "That's not true!" He shouted as some of them hissed and stuck their tongues out. "I got a girl who wants to kiss me all day long, and she's A LOT cooler than you wannabe groupies!"

"What a delusional fool," Hiei remarked.

Tsuki and Kurama covered their mouths, suppressing their chuckles.

"We've got the 4th match, Shishiwakamaru vs. Kuwabara!" Juri twirled and gave the signal. "And begin!"

"This is going to be quick." Shishiwakamaru massaged his neck. "Let's get started, my defective friend. I've got fame to achieve."

Kuwabara shook like a leaf. "Oh, that's SO it! You're TOTALLY going down!" He created his spirit sword and charged. "Come on!"

He's not moving. Tsuki eyed Shishiwakamaru suspiciously. But Why?

Kuwabara sliced down, appearing to slice Shishiwakamaru in half. "Gotcha!"

"Don't be ridiculous." Shishiwakamaru reappeared by the side with a dazzling smile.

Tsuki's eyes widened at his blinding technique. "Such quickness."

"Hmph," Hiei smirked. "The arrogant fool may be a worthy opponent after all."

"Indeed." Kurama's eyebrows furrowed. "He's not even pulling out his sword."

"Ahhhh!" Kuwabara sliced down, but Shishiwakamaru elegantly dodged it again. That annoying smile stayed on his face.

"And here's my brand of fighting! No tricks or troublesome fog, just an open neck and a sword!" Koto declared as Kuwabara continued his aggression.

"Shishiwakamaru can read his every maneuver," Kurama informed.

"He's toying with him," Hiei stated. "The fool needs to stop making repetitive strikes."

"Come on, Kuwabara!" Tsuki yelled encouragingly while Iku barked. "You can do it!"

"Take this!" Kuwabara struck down, but Shishiwakamaru leaped up. His sandal tapped Kuwabara's head before he effortlessly landed back in the ring.

Kuwabara turned around, scowling. "That's it! My head as a trampoline is where I draw the line!" He sprinted forward. "Ahhhh!"

Shishiwakamru dodged to the side, smiling wider. His eyes turned evil, jumping up as Kuwabara struck. "Ugly human." He threw the mysterious cape at him.

Kuwabara stood, slacked-jawed. "Huh? What are you doing to me?!" He squirmed when the cloth wrapped around him. "Gyahh! This isn't fun!"

"Kuwabara!" Tsuki yelled while Kurama and Hiei's eyes widened.

"Iku…" the puppy whined, ears perked down.

Shishiwakamaru landed back in the ring. The cloth wrapped tighter around Kuwabara's body.

"I'm not ugly, okay?!" Kuwabara's voice echoed as he vanished into an unknown portal.

"Nice last words," Hiei stated with a deadpan expression.

"I lost all trace of his energy." Kurama rubbed his chin. "Is as if he ceased to exist."

Juri glanced anxiously around. "Um, what's the ruling on this one?! He was in the ring, but now he's not! But that cloth he was wrapped up in is still is!"

"The idiot lost." Shishiwakamaru brushed his shoulder, picking up the cape. "Clearly he's not in the ring. As to where actually, I don't know or care. You'll have to ask the cape of no return for such trivial detail."

Tsuki glared at him. "It's not trivial when my friend isn't here. Now, where is he?"

"He's somewhere in this world." Shishiwakamaru shrugged. "Or maybe the next, or maybe in another dimension. I just know the dummy is uncomfortable."

"Juri!" Koto spoke impatiently. "We're waiting for a decision!"

"Right! Well, Kuwabara is indeed not in the ring, and hasn't been for over ten counts! I say Shishiwakamaru wins!" Juri declared confidently to the rowdy crowd.

"Good! You got the first one out! Now in the next match, I want to see blood!"

"Give us the kind of kill that we can all remember!"

"Look at me, Shishi! Look at me!"

Shishiwakamaru gazed up and flashed one of his tantalizing smiles. Some fangirls instantly swooned and fainted. "Now, which one of you will I have to entertain with my banshee shriek?" He asked, glancing at the Urameshi team.

Hiei smiled devilishly. "Let the fun begin."

"Yes, he's going to have a difficult time with me," Kurama assured.

"Please be me." Tsuki crossed her fingers.

Shishiwakamaru tossed the dice. Once landed, it revealed a free space and Tsuki's name.

Juri raised her hand. "Team Uraotogi receives a free space, and for Team Urameshi, it's Tsuki!"

Indeed fate was on her side. Tsuki transformed her bracelet, gripping her divine bells tightly. "It's me and you, pretty boy."

Shishiwakamaru's expression became wild with excitement. "I'll be happy to go again, my sacrificial lamb."

Iku growled. "Iku!" Before he could jump in the ring, Hiei grabbed him by the neck.

"Not so fast, pup," Hiei stated while Iku squirmed. "Let her handle this."

Tsuki jumped in. A calm core of confidence settled inside her. "I'll be fine, Iku. And thanks, Hiei."

Concern crossed Hiei's face as he nodded. "Just don't get killed."

Kurama's expression brightened. "We believe in you, Tsuki."

"Thanks, I won't let you guys down. Sacred shield!" Tsuki chanted, heading to the middle while the fangirls hissed.

"If you touch my man, we're fighting outside, priestess!"

"You better not drool over him! He doesn't want your basic ass!"

Tsuki's eyebrow twitched, but she focused her eyes on Shishiwakamaru's arrogant face. Unease filled her, despite her calm exterior. She still hadn't entirely recovered from Kana's vicious attack. And this pretty boy was naturally more dangerous than he looked.

"Fate smiles at me after all," Shishiwakamaru stated warmly. "How does it feel to be the first to die for my celebrity status?"

"Celebrity status?" Tsuki's frown deepened. "Is that why you're fighting in this stupid tournament? You can't be in the spotlight all the time. Where's your integrity?"

Shishiwakamaru shot her a murderous look. "Let me guess. You're a holy priestess that's going to spread your light in this world? Typical boring hero." His left thumb pushed his sword out, drawing it ready. "I hate people like you."

"Good." Tsuki struck her fighting pose, placing her shield in front. "It'll hurt more when I kick your demon ass."

"It's match 5, everyone! Shishiwakamaru vs. Tsuki!" Juri gave the signal. "Let's go!"

Tsuki stepped back when Shishiwakamaru tried to side cut her. He immediately put her in defense mode as he struck countless slashes.

His sword technique is different from Hiei's. Tsuki maneuvered to the side, eyeing his left hand that was holding his sheath. He's vicious, but he leaves his left side completely open.

"I'm impressed, priestess. Your reflexes are good." Shishiwakamaru vanished and reappeared from behind. "But can your eyes keep up with my movements?"

Tsuki twisted with her divine bells, clashing with his sword. She skirted back as Shishiwakamaru quickly cut her cheek. Blood leaked and dripped down onto the ring.

"Woo hoo!" Koto announced while the audience cheered and swoon. "Shishi has finally drawn some blood! Hopefully, we'll see more of that pretty soon!"

A smile crossed Shishiwakamaru's cold features as he licked Tsuki's blood. "Delicious," he stated before swiping his sword down. "You're a work of art."

"Ergh!" Tsuki could feel her face burning. She quickly sent 20 spirit arrows at him. "You're disgusting, creep!"

Shishiwakamaru easily sliced them down. "Child's play!"

Tsuki swiftly drew a pentagon. "Seal of purification!" Two seals appeared above Shishiwakamaru.

Shishiwakamaru lunged out of the way as the blasts zipped past him. He gasped when Tsuki flung her shield towards him.

With a frenzy, Tsuki rushed at Shishiwakamaru while he struck the shield down. He swung another strike towards Tsuki's head, but she dodged to the left, allowing Shishiwakamaru to cut her shoulder. She winced and punched Shishiwakamaru as hard as she could.

"Nice, Tsuki!" Kurama stated while Shishiwakamaru flew backward.

"I bet the fool wasn't expecting that," Hiei added, impressed.

Tsuki swooped in after Shishiwakamaru, getting in one more good punch before he toppled in the ring.

"Iku!" her puppy barked.

"Wow! After Shishi's bloody assault, Tsuki was able to finally deliver blows to his face!" Koto declared as some fangirls screamed and squealed. "But would it be enough to defeat him?!"

Shishiwakamaru rose and touched his busted lip. His voice dripped with animosity. "You dare to hit this handsome face?!"

"You were moving too fast." Tsuki huffed, clutching her wound. "My wise teacher told me if I run out of options, a good hard punch will do the trick."

Reddish and purplish aura swirled around Shishiwakamaru as he laughed uncontrollably. "Hehehe, I won't dally around with you anymore. I will be famous." His light expression changed to something darker. "You'll die today, priestess."

Tsuki frowned, alarmed when he spread his hilt, revealing a strange demon spirit that reminded her of death. "What's that?"

Shishiwakamaru's gaze chilled her all over while he swiftly carved a circle on the ring. "Hehehe, my banshee has the power to beckon lost demon souls into the ring with us." His sword glowed red, lifting it high. "We need to give you an appropriate death. It should be the perfect way to make my reputation known in the Dark Tournament."

"Be careful, Tsuki," Kurama warned. "His sword is dangerous."

Hiei snarled with a low growl. "The arrogant fool thinks he can handle that source of power."

Shishiwakamaru swiftly swiped his sword from different angles before raising it in the air. His expression was cold and calculating, laced with malicious amusement. "Are you ready, priestess?" He asked, speedily twirling his banshee shriek.

Tsuki refused to be impressed. "He clearly lost his mind." Her heart dropped when she heard a faint hollow sound.

"So Shishi can twirl his banshee shriek as well as any band major that I've ever seen!" Koto announced. "But will he shed any more blood before he makes Tsuki vanish?!"

Shishiwakamaru laughed out loud, a gleeful sound. "Hahahaha!" Energy waves swirled out of his sword, making the horrible cries of the souls intensify.

Juri stepped back further, clearly terrified. "That doesn't sound so good!" She stated while silence reigned in the stadium.

Tsuki's eyebrows shot up. She covered her ears against the high-pitched wail. Sorrow and shock flooded her trembling soul.

The crowd covered their ears and stared in fascination and horror as the noise assaulted their eardrums. Some fangirls cried and fainted. Others screamed and screamed.

"I can't begin to describe the sound coming from Shishi's sword! It feels like my ears are bleeding!" Koto announced in agony. "And now it's draining the life right out of the audience, causing them to collapse! This kind of violence just isn't fun cuz it's happening to me!"

Tsuki clutched at her ears, on her knees, moaning. She had never felt such dread. It was as if her head was being ripped apart.

Shishiwakamaru smiled, revealing his horn and fangs. "Do you know the shrill call of the reaper steals the lives of those weak souls unable to resist its siren song?! I myself think it sounds more like a choir of singing cherubs! But what matters is how it sounds to you, right Tsuki?!" He twirled the sword faster.

"Aeeeiiieee!" Juri kneeled, shrilling. The siren's wail sharpened. "Make it stop!"

"Ikuuuuuu!" Iku moaned and whimpered.

I need to stop this suffering! Tsuki could barely move. Her heart beat in loud, shuddering thumps in her chest. I have to be the light in this world!

Her divine bells glowed, spreading around her body. When Tsuki moved, the clang of bells instantly soothed her. She gasped, remembering her birthday ceremony and how the music eased her mind. And Tsuki felt at peace every time she heard the merry tintinnabulation of church bells.

Ignoring the piercing sound as best she could, Tsuki clambered to her feet. She had to force each breath. Had to remind herself: Breathe. Breathe. "Melodies from heaven, gods of the universe!" Tsuki sang soulfully, whipping her divine bells. "Bring us to the light!"

The vibration of the bells soothed her with its mellow tune. She whipped faster, matching the sound vibrations with Shishiwakamaru.

Shishiwakamaru's face was completely devoid of any sort of warmth. "Aw, what a heavenly sound, but not enough!" He leaped high in the air while his sword glowed. "Let it rip!"

Tsuki and Juri scrambled out of the way. "You're a wacko!" The priestess screamed.

"Hahahaha! In depths of the Spirit World, chorus of a thousand skulls!" Shishiwakamaru struck down in the ring.

I'm not going to make it! Tsuki surrounded herself with a barrier. A soul-shattering bellow erupted, so intense that the arena shook. She caught herself and allowed the barrier to absorb the main impact of the crash. However, the last bit of energy knocked her back as smoke clouded the ring.

Tsuki struck the wall, and she fell to the ground. Pain surged through her body, but she refused to give in to it. With her hearing a bit blurry, she staggered to her feet, swaying a little.

The souls clambered out of the ring and flew at the audience with unnerving speed. She didn't want to watch, but couldn't tear her eyes away. The evil spirits rapidly devoured anyone close. Some demons recoiled and fell. When two came at her, she destroyed them with her arrows.

The cloud of smoke disappeared. Shishiwakamaru stood by the rim of the massive crater. He raised his banshee shriek in the air. "Now that you witness the most awesome display of power ever unleashed at the Dark Tournament, there should be no debate about who's the greatest showman is. Such impact on the audience. They will never forget the famous Shishiwakamaru."

"Oh my!" Juri peeked at the crater and quivered. "That could have been me that was flown apart!"

"I know how you feel. That could've been me too." Tsuki's arms swept wide as she gestured to the chaos Shishiwakakamaru had caused. "Well, you sure do know how to put on a show."

Shishiwakamaru glared at her. "You're only a mere human. I'm surprised my sound and souls didn't kill you, you insolent virgin."

"I'm more than that, you D-list celebrity!" Tsuki snapped, fury burning in the depths of her brown eyes. She bounced back in the ring. "I'm a shrine maiden that's here to protect the Human World from lunatics like you!"

"Shut up!" Shishiwakamaru swung the sword down. His eyes turned cold. "I won't be humiliated on my own stage! Don't think for a minute you can keep running from my chorus of thousands of skulls! You will give out in time!"

A chill fell over the room. The fangirls looked half frightened to death, and the demon men didn't utter a word.

"Screw this," Juri muttered, darting from the side of the ring. "They don't pay me enough."

"Everyone! Let's run for our lives!"

The scene turned into total chaos, with demons dashing everywhere. As they tried to get out, a stampede ensued, pushing and trampling the fallen ones.

"Wow! Hundreds of fans are fleeing the stadium, trying to get out of the way of Shishi's next violent attack!" Koto announced. "I have to admit! I'm a little afraid myself of what's coming next, but I'm sticking around because we announcers have to be held in a higher standard! Would you agree, Juri?! Huh?! Juri, where are you?!"

Tsuki scowled but was grateful that the girls weren't here to witness this madness. Some trembling demons remained seated. Grim looks on every face.

Koto stayed positive. "Looks like some dedicated fans are staying in their seats to watch the carnage unfold! Of course, it doesn't matter how many people are in the stands! This place is going to gush blood as long as their two fighters are in the ring!"

"This is what you want, Shishi?!" Tsuki demanded. "Chaos and despair for your wishy-washy dream?! You're so selfish!"

"Ugh, your hero talk is sickening!" Shishiwakamaru's aura glowed. "The show goes on, regardless. I should warn you that my sword knows many impressive tricks beyond the chorus of a thousand skulls. Wanna see?"

"Hell no!" Tsuki sprinted, shooting two spirit beams at him.

Shishiwakamaru jumped aside. "You have to do better than that, priestess." He swiftly stabbed the sword in the ground. "Surround us with the cage of hell!"

Tsuki halted. A large barrier surrounded them, securing her inside. The souls trapped in the barrier cried in agony and despair.

Shishiwakamaru laughed in wild triumph. "Hahahaha! There's no escape for you this time! You can run as fast as you like, but you'll be out of breath before you get out! Hahahahaha! It's one hell of a cage match, to the death!"

Tsuki glanced around. Jumping up was her only option. Before she could leap, Shishiwakamaru crept closer.

"Idealists like you who fight for justice make me wretch." Hatred, deep and dark, boiled behind Shishiwakamaru's eyes. "Stardom is the purest fuel for strength and that's how it should always be. You softies are only crowding the room. I WILL BE A BIG STAR!"

Tsuki shook her head in disgust. Shishiwakamaru was arrogant, mean, and all-around evil. Worse of all, he had the strength and power to back up his cruelty. "It's a shame. All of this talent was wasted on a superficial asshole."

Shishiwakamaru snarled with rage. "Shut up! You're worth NOTHING to me alive!" He leaped and flew to her. "I'll slice you in half, virgin!"

As his sword sliced down, Tsuki blocked it with her divine bells. Anger blasted away the fear inside of her. "You may have the talent, Shishi," she said in a low voice, her aura glowing. "But I have the light. I'll keep on shining no matter what!"

"Augh!" Waves of light blasted at Shishiwakamaru, pushing him back. The energy pierced through the barrier, destroying it completely.

"Tsuki's bright aura has sent Shishiwakamaru flying!" Koto announced while Shishiwakamaru skirted and toppled. "But can she stop him from causing another catastrophe?!"

Shishiwakamaru lifted his head, glaring murderously at her. "How could you do such a vindictive thing to me?! I was supposed to have the spotlight! I was destined for greatness! Don't you realize what I'm supposed to become?!"

Tsuki huffed and puffed, pointing her divine bells at him. "Would you just shut up and stay down?!

"Never!" Shishiwakamaru sprung up. "It'll take more than cheap tricks to keep a skillful champion like me down!" A cruel smile played over his lips as he swung his sword. "EYAHHH! Chorus of...a thousand...souls!"

"Seal of reflection!" Tsuki stood tall, using the last ounce of her strength to create a huge seal. She enhanced her spiritual energy. "You're not killing any more people!" The seal effortlessly consumed the skulls. Her smile widened while she watched Shishiwakamaru's expression of despair.

"No, this can't happen!" Shishiwakamaru's face warped with rage. He darted at her. "Give it back!"

"Gladly, weirdo!" Tsuki shouted, reflecting the souls back to him.

"Augh!" The souls entered back in the banshee shriek. A crackle of static traveled down the hilt before the sword erupted, shocking Shishiwakamaru's entire body.

The audience watched in silence as Shishiwakamaru trembled, crumbling to the ground. Tsuki walked closer with her divine bells ready. She braced herself to deflect his hit, but it doesn't come.

Shishiwakamaru coughed and lifted his face. "You didn't kill me." He stated, blood leaking from his mouth. "You really do fight for justice."

Tsuki's heart thumped in her chest, and sweat coated her skin. "Not only that, I fight for people I care about. I fight for the gods. I fight for the light." Her face softened. "There's nothing wrong with being a celebrity, Shishi. Just don't be an asshole about it."

Shishiwakamaru smiled, eyes glistening. "I think...I may have fallen...in love. If things have turned out...differently for us,...we could've been together…"

"Please." Tsuki whipped her hair while he collapsed, transforming her divine bells back to her bracelet. "I'm single, not desperate."

Juri ran in the ring and twirled. "Woohoo! Girl power! Hahaha!" She lifted Tsuki's hand. "The winner of the match is Tsuki!"

The angry crowd booed, but Tsuki didn't pay them any mind. She beamed when Iku dashed in the ring. "I know, Iku." Tsuki picked him up and sighed heavily while he eagerly licked her face. "That was an intense fight."

Kurama clapped. "Bravo, Tsuki. Entertaining match."

Hiei's eyes looked at her with pride - and much more. "Well done."

Tsuki placed Iku down. "Thanks, guys." She eyed Onji. "Now it's just the captain left. We're so close."

"Yes, I'm proud of you all." A voice spoke from behind. "You guys did a wonderful job."

Everyone turned around and stared wide-eyed at the masked fighter. She appeared unharmed, but her spiritual energy was extremely low.

Tsuki smiled warmly, making sure to hide her surprise in her tone. "Welcome back."

"Just who the hell are you?" Hiei's eyes narrowed, not convinced. "I hope you don't expect me to believe you're the same masked fighter who was on our team. She had tremendous power. You're a weakling."

The masked fighter brushed past him and stared at the ring. "Yusuke's has it now."

"It's true. She's the same masked fighter." Tsuki confirmed to the shocked Hiei. Her worried eyes glanced at her. "Is Yusuke alright?"

The masked fighter nodded and winked. "Yes, the dimwit is safe. And he passed the test."

Thank the heavens. Tsuki's eyes twinkled, her heart filled with joy. "That's great."

"Then there's no need to worry then." Kurama watched Onji closely enter the ring. "Let's focus on the match."

Juri smiled brightly at the agitated audience. "That victory gets Team Urameshi a strong 4-1 lead in this semi-final round! One more win and they advance! And there's only one man left standing on Team Uraotogi to stop him!"

"And he's barely standing," Hiei smartly remarked.

Onji stood in the middle as the audience murmured and muttered in disbelief.

"I would say break a leg, but he might take it literally!"

"I'm more worried about his hips!"

"That's fine," Onji stated calmly. "Mock me all you want, you fair-weather demons. But I can break both a leg and a hip. Just as soon as I can determine to whom it'll belong."

"Did he fight in the last round?" Tsuki asked her teammates. "He seems very confident."

Hiei folded his arms. "The geezer is fast. I give him that. And he easily defeated his opponent."

"It doesn't matter," Kurama pronounced. "He'll lose, and I'll make sure he'll tell us about those items."

"Hehehe, I can see no reasons to cast the die for my team. Kind of lapse the suspense. So if you don't mind, I'll give your die a solo roll." Onji tossed the die. It landed and revealed Kuwabara's name. "Oh, what do we have here? The dummy."

"Team Urameshi's die calls for Kuwabara to step into the ring now!" Juri's expression saddened as she clasped her hands together. "But the poor fellow is stranded in another dimension! Let's roll again!"

"Not so fast, referee!" a familiar goofy voice shouted in the microphone.

Tsuki turned and beamed. "I'm glad you're alright, Kuwabara."

"Huh?" Juri glanced at Koto's area and smiled. "You've come back to us!"

"Oh my! We thought you were dead and gone for sure!" Koto announced. "I guess the cape of no return is a misleading name!"

"See, I never get lost anywhere for long!" Kuwabara pointed at the ring, standing proudly. "Ladies and gentlemen, and other stuff! Kuwabara, the man, returns!"

The audience fell silent with blank faces. Tsuki giggled while Iku scratched his ear.

Kurama chuckled. "Well, that's an interesting way to enter."

"Well, this is a tough crowd! I've seen funerals more livelier than this." Kuwabara cleared his throat and smiled. "As active captain, it's my job to end this with dignity! So let's get ready to rock-n-roll! Yeee hawww!"

"He's an embarrassment to himself and this team," Hiei said, irritated.

The masked fighter didn't try to hide the disappointment in her voice. "Is he the moron that lost in this round?"

"Yes," Tsuki answered while Kuwabara jumped in the ring. "So he has something to prove."

"The 6th match of the Dark Tournament semi-finals: Kuwabara against Onji!" Juri raised her hand. "And by unquestionable authority of randomly rolled die, Kuwabara and Onji will fight now!"

Kuwabara cracked his knuckles. "Bring it, OG! If you still got it!" He charged, throwing multiple punches.

"Young men, always judging the old." With his hands behind his back, Onji dodged Kuwabara's attacks swiftly.

Tsuki's eyes squinted. "You're right. He's fast."

"Yes, Kuwabara needs more than fists to defeat him," Kurama replied.

Kuwabara created his spirit sword. "I was going to give you a senior discount, but now it's spirit time!"

"A weapon like that must use up a lot of energy. Don't burn yourself out too quickly now," Onji advised.

Kuwabara slashed down, but Onji easily dodged again. "What?"

"It might help if you aim for me," Onji stated, maneuvering to the side. "Slowpoke."

Tsuki swallowed hard. She had a strong sense of deja vu. "He's toying with him."

"The fool is making the same mistake as the last match," Hiei stated flatly.

"Go, Kazuma! You can do it!" Yukina yelled.

"Come on, bro!" Shizuru urged. "You can't wait for him to die of old age!"

"You don't want to lose and disappoint Yukina, do you?!" Botan called out.

The girls! Tsuki's eyes lit up, glancing at the audience. She spotted a glimpse of them in the upper section. Hopefully, their encouragement will give Kuwabara the courage to win.

Kuwabara kept missing. He couldn't keep up with Onji's erratic movements. He gasped when the captain suddenly vanished. "Where did you run off to, you slimy weasel?!" Kuwabara's eyes darted around. "I can't fight you if you vanish!"

The captain appeared behind Juri. "Oh, is that what you're doing?" He showed Kuwabara a peace sign.

Kuwabara stomped his foot. "You sure are a coward! Running and hiding behind the innocence! Why don't you stand in one place and fight like a real man?!"

"Alright, crybaby." Onji stepped forward, hands behind back. "I'll stand right here and promise not to budge."

"Liar!"

"Seriously, my body is not so spry these days." Onji moved his neck from side to side, rolling his shoulders. "I could use the rest."

"Fine!" Kuwabara charged. "Stay put exactly where you are, old man. And I'll help you rest in pieces!"

"Don't do it, Kuwabara," Kurama warned.

While Juri scrambled away, Onji created a huge black ball from his hands. The bubble floated towards Kuwabara.

"Is that supposed to scare me?!" Kuwabara swung hard. "Spirit sword!"

"Kuwabara, no!" Tsuki smacked her forehead.

"Iku," the puppy whimpered.

"Gah!" Kuwabara fell inside the bubble, bumping his head multiple times before collapsing facedown.

"I can't believe he walked right into that trap on his own," Kurama stated surprisingly.

"He's a first-class fool," Hiei remarked.

The masked fighter looked annoyed, squinting her eyes. "Agreed, a fool and a moron."

Tsuki suppressed a grimace. "At least he tried his best."

"An exciting turn! Onji let Kuwabara inside a big ball, and he can't break free! Who knows what's planned for this boy in the bubble!" Koto announced.

"Hey!" Kuwabara banged on the ball. "Let me out of here, you stupid trickster!"

"Hehehe, don't worry. This is going to feel something like Shishiwakamaru's cape of no return," Onji began. "You do remember what that was like, don't you? After all, that wasn't very long ago when it's tough to forget being transported through a different dimension."

"Not this again!" Kuwabara fumed. "Fight me like a real man!"

"Shishi required the piece of cloth I gave him to perform this technique. But since I invented it, I don't need any props," Onji explained. "The other four members of Team Uraotogi were merely fillers so I can enter the tournament. But they never amounted to anything without me and my gifts. The steaming spheres, the idunn box, the banshee shriek. All specially tailored by little old me, hehehehehehehe."

Tsuki gasped. "Wow, it was the captain all along."

"Interesting." There was a thoughtful silence from Kurama. "Who would have thought?"

Onji waved at Kuwabara, grinning. "Goodbye, dummy. Thank you for another easy win."

"Ahhhhh! Gyahhhhh!" Kuwabara yelled as the bubble spun and diminished. "I'm going to get you, punk!"

Juri raised her hand after the ball disappeared. "I know where this one is going! Kuwabara is out of the ring and won't be back in 10! The winner is Onji!"

The audience cheered while Team Urameshi entered the ring.

"Let's see who I'll have the pleasure of humiliating next," Onji glanced at Kurama. "I've got a faint feeling in my old shook knee that it's going to be you. Now I know all of the secrets of the idunn box. And I can change you in whatever form I please. So sorry, but you'll have to fight in your human form."

Kurama looked at him with sly eyes "Presumptive, considering you haven't yet rolled."

"Heheheheh, let the games begin." Onji dropped the die. He smiled widened as it revealed the masked fighter's name. "Another easy win for me."

"Careful," Tsuki warned her before leaving the ring. "There's more to him than meets the eye."

"Please, he's not fooling me." The masked fighter headed to the middle. "I see right through his facade."

Kurama jumped down. "I hope she has enough energy to defeat him."

"If not, I'm surely getting in," Hiei stated.

Onji grinned. "Hehehe, so it's the masked warrior's turn to meet her doom. Your energy has drained drastically since we last met. Are you sure you want to go through with this fight?"

"Why don't you drop your tired act and lose the disguise." The masked glared at him. "You won't be fooling anyone else with that crappy mask."

Onji's eyes widened. "Hmmm?"

"Disguise?" Kurama's eyebrow furrowed.

Tsuki smiled. "Good eye."

"I don't know who you are, but you're no old man," the masked fighter explained. "And in case you haven't noticed, I'm not the kind of person who'll not underestimate you based on false age."

"You've got a pretty sharp eye." Onji gave the masked fighter his coldest smile. "You're the first to notice. I even masked my own energy. Too bad you can't mask yours, you worn passed-its-primed body hag."

Mummers and mutters erupted from the audience. Confusion appeared on everyone's faces.

Hiei glared daggers at the masked fighter. "What's he talking about?"

"Come to think of it," Kurama stated. "She does have the same smell, but only older."

"Before I reveal my face, why don't you show the audience yours?" A wicked smile split Onji's face. "I'm sure they're curious to see who's behind the mask."

"You don't have to do it," Tsuki advised. "He's just taunting you."

"It's alright." The masked fighter unraveled her cloth. "There's nothing to hide anymore."

The audience gave out a collective gasp as the masked fighter revealed her mature face.

"What the?! She's old!"

"Didn't she have pink hair last time?!"

Hiei glared at her. "She's an imposter," he accused.

"No." Tsuki shook her head. "It's Master Genkai. She's been the masked fighter this whole time. She just needed her identity to be hidden from the public eye."

"That explains a lot," Kurama stated.

The audience growled. Tension rose and thickened. Tsuki's hair rose from her back as she sensed uncontrollable blood-lust.

"They broke the rules! The penalty for cheating is death!"

"Let's send a message to their human friends!"

"Hehehe." Onji laughed. "I know who you are, old, ugly woman. I heard your teammates loud and clear. Hopefully, you can convince the audience."

"Well, this is a little unexpected!" Koto announced. "The locality of the Urameshi Team is being called into question, and the blood bath has been delayed in hopes for some kind of group lynching! Let's look at the screen!'

The large screen displayed a rerun of the Dr. Ichigaki round. It skimmed to the part where the masked fighter stood with her younger face uncovered.

"This was the first time we saw beneath the mask! And as we see, it was definitely a much younger girl!" A worker came to whisper in Koto's ear. "I just received word from the tournament committee! They're reviewing the situation as we speak and ask for your patience as they come to a final decision!"

"This is a waste of time," Hiei commented.

"At least they're being fair this round," Kurama replied.

"I still don't trust them," Tsuki stated truthfully. Iku nodded in agreement.

Koto grabbed the letter from the worker. "This is crazy! Kind of feels like an award show! Well, anyway! By the authority of the tournament committee and the unanimous decision. The masked fighter eligibility and Team Urameshi future is ruled no problem! The fight between Onji and the masked fighter will continu-ahhh!" Koto covered herself from the popcorn and beer being thrown at her.

"Are you serious?! They've gotten away with murder!"

"Kill them all! Kill them all!"

"My goodness! Guys! I-" Koto silenced herself. Younger Toguro stood next to her, grabbing the microphone.

Tsuki frowned, observing him closely. His presence made her sick to her stomach.

Everyone fell silent when he spoke. "Team Urameshi didn't cheat. I wanted you all to know that. To understand why you merely have to know who that woman is." Toguro grinned at Genkai. "It's been such long a time since we talked. Hasn't it, Genkai?"

"Indeed," Master Genkai stated calmly.

The crowd drew in a collective gasp.

"The legendary Genkai?!"

"But why would such a legend hide behind a mask?!"

"While employing the technique she's so fond of, the body of the user does the most impressive thing. Its cells return to the moment when they're the strongest," Toguro explained. "The young girl you saw before and the old woman there now are the same person. Genkai, the human psychic who created the spirit wave."

"Amazing," Kurama stated. "Toguro and her must have been very close. Too bad feelings have changed."

"I'm just glad he spoke up." A sobbed relief escaped Tsuki's lips. She took another deep breath, touching her heart. "The audience is finally calming down."

Toguro gave the microphone back to Koto and left the lower section. Not before giving Genkai a snake glance.

Onji's aura glowed red. "Hehehehe, since we got that out of the way, it's time for my grand reveal. You see, disguises are one of my favorite hobbies." He ripped the rubber mask off his face. "To be brutally honest, there are a few things I find more repulsive than old people. That horrible smell that hovers around them makes me absolutely wrench. That's why I chose this get-up. I thought wearing the skin of something I detest will all the more infuse my rage."

"Ewwww." Juri shivered.

"HAHAHAHA! Prepare yourself to be amazed by the great innovator!" Onji's voice became flamboyant. He moved his arms as a puff of pink smoke surrounded him. "HAHAHAHAHA!"

Everyone's mouth gaped open when the smoke vanished. In the middle stood a tall, blond-haired clown with a colorful pink costume.

Hiei scowled. "Ridiculous."

Tsuki blinked rapidly while Iku tilted his head. "Well, I wasn't expecting that."

The clown lifted his hands up, waving them like a showman. "Yes, free at last. A few more minutes smothered under that mask and I might have gotten real wrinkles." His deep blue eyes twinkled. "You see I planned to die before showing any sign of aging. This is my fate. It's the price that we artists have to pay."

"Yippie," Master Genkai's voice held a hint of sarcasm. "Of all the fighters, I got the fruity loop as an opponent."

The clown ignored her and continued his rant. "My image is my greatest masterpiece, and so I live long as a legend. I must rely on all of you who witness my art to re-encounter throughout the generations and keep me alive. So never forget ladies and gentlemen what you're about to see for me, the master of 1000 faces and tricks, the beautiful Suzuka! Oh ho ho ho!"

"Of course, I hate to ruin a piece of art Suzuka. But I had no hold-ups with you," Master Genkai stated. "You're a piece of trash."

Suzuka regarded her levelly, still with that amused look that made Tsuki want to choke him. "You must never refer to me by my proper name without placing beautiful in front of it. Or you won't live to repeat your mistake. Beautiful is a word made just for me and we too shall never part."

"Fruitcake," Master Genkai remarked.

Tsuki glowered at the weirdo. "Is this guy serious?"

"This idiot makes Kuwabara seem smart," Hiei remarked.

"I admit," Kurama said. "I'm embarrassed listening to him."

"Wow, the descriptive Onji has transformed into Suzuka! What an interesting wardrobe selection on his part!" Koto declared.

Suzuka stopped laughing and glared at Koto. He swiftly flung a card straight at her.

"Aaaaeeeaaa!" Koto moved out of the way and clung to the demon next to her. She beamed while the card hit the demon from behind. "That was freakin sweet!"

"I already told you to put a beautiful in front of my name," Suzuka stated. "It's very important."

Tsuki had the urge to shoot an arrow at him. "And I thought Shishiwakamaru was arrogant."

"Hmph, for somebody who wants to be known by the world, you sure hide behind a lot of masks. You must be confiscating for something abysmal," Genkai stated

Suzuka spread his hands, dramatic like he was a magician. "The greatest legends are all sharted with ambiguity. It seems the imagination is most captivating by the unknown. People are simply more inclined to build up in their own minds that in which they cannot see, oh which have multiple incarnations. Look at how they fear the devil and revere God. With mystery comes colossal power. And that power will be mine!"

Tsuki massaged her forehead. "He talks a lot," she stated.

"In a 1000 years, they'll worship me, and each with have an unique vision. And one will say the beautiful Suzuka, he looks like this. And another will say no, he looks like this. No like this. Like this. And each vision will be grander than the last. And I will live in their minds forever. Hahahahaha!"

"I don't get what's so funny," Hiei stated, clearly annoyed. "I would've shut him up."

Kurama looked confused. "I thought clowns made everybody else laugh."

"Not this wacko." Tsuki groaned when he began talking again.

"Let it be sung throughout the land that upon my victory at this tournament, I'll first eradicate the elderly from the world in honor of the soon to be slain Genkai. And then I shall strike down ALL who refuse to worship me, the beautiful Suzuka, and that as they say will be that."

The audience muttered unhappily.

"Go back to the circus, you ridiculous looking clown!" Botan yelled.

"Eradicate this asshole!" Shizuru shouted.

Without a word, Suzuka glanced to the left and shot an energy blast at the shocked audience.

"Ahhhh!" Some of the crowd flew and crashed into the lower sections.

"Oh no," Tsuki gasped, staring worriedly at the blasted area. "I hope they're alright."

"I'm not a fan of insubordination," Suzuka stated as his façade of calm began to crack.

"This wacko is serious about this denomination stuff!"

"This sucks! I'm not rooting for either of them!"

"I guess I fired them up, HAHAHAHA!" Suzuka howled. "Sooner or later, they'll all have to bow down to me! HAHAHAHA!"

"For once, they're showing distaste," Hiei stated as the audience booed.

"When it's convenient for them," Tsuki added.

"So um, you think you might be ready?" Juri asked Master Genkai.

Genkai rubbed the back of her head and sighed. "Yes, let's shut this jerk up."

"Right! Round 7, Genkai vs. Beautiful Suzuka!" Juri announced. "Let the battle begin!"

Suzuka looked challengingly at Genkai. "You're feeling so confident because you managed to defeat my frontman. But while I did teach him everything that he knew, I didn't nearly teach them everything that I knew."

"You just like to hear yourself talk," Genkai commented.

"HAHAHAHA, you're frustrated! You can sense I have so much energy, but you can't hold in on it. Marvel at my art as I unleashed my bright pallet. I call this one the rainbow cyclone! HA! HAAAAAA!" Suzuka twirled and blasted colorful energies towards Genkai.

"Genkai!" Tsuki yelled as her teacher flew out of the ring, crashing into the wall.

"It seems Suzu-. I mean, the beautiful Suzuka seems to have blasted Genkai with his gorgeous rainbow cyclone!" Koto declared. "And he didn't just knock her to the wall. He knocked her right smack through it!"

"Hahahaha, it's truly a spectacular attack! Not only is it lethal, but it's killer to look at. All those vibrant colors are so lovely, aren't they? Though I'm sure Genkai didn't think so as it plunged through her heart and bashed her into that wall. You!" Suzuka pointed at Juri. "What are you waiting for?!"

"Oh, right! Out of the ring, I'll start the count!" Juri announced. "1, 2, 3, 4, 5!"

"Genkai is weak," Hiei stated. "I should have taken her turn."

"We shouldn't underestimate her just yet, Hiei," Kurama countered.

Tsuki clasped her hands together. "Please be alright."

"What a tragedy it's over." Suzuka waved his hand dismissively. "I had 999 more faces and 999 more tricks I wanted to use."

The cloud disappeared, revealing the unharmed Genkai. She stood tall with a smile on her face.

"Hmph," Hiei smirked. "She survived."

"You still think she's weak, Hiei?" Kurama asked.

"Definitely not," Tsuki replied.

"Genkai emerged from the rumble unharmed! There's not even a scar or deeply bloody gash on this woman!" Koto declared. "Not that it makes a beautiful Suzuka's attack any less beautiful!"

Suzuka acknowledged her with a condescending sneer. "Forgive me if I'm not impressed."

Master Genkai hopped in the ring. "I know you play by higher standards." She revealed his plastic clown nose. "But at least give me credit for the nose."

Suzuka's body flinched. "What?!" He quickly covered his nose.

Genkai twirled the strings, smiling. "If I had more time, I would've taken that big ugly grin off your face too."

"But when did you do that?!" Juri asked.

Tsuki tried to remember her teacher's movements. "Good question."

"Naturally, my eyes could follow every inch of Genkai's movement," Kurama stated.

"And I've seen the whole thing too," Hiei added.

"Hey!" a familiar voice called from behind. "I'm back for my rematch!"

"Kuwabara," Kurama stated as they glanced quickly over their shoulders.

"Hmph, and only 500 seconds too late to matter," Hiei remarked.

Tsuki beamed. "I'm glad you're fine."

Kuwabara huffed and puffed, touching his knees. "Where's that guy I was fighting? I wasn't done yet."

Hiei eyed the ring, smiling. "So which is more humiliating, losing to an old man or clown?"

"A clown," Kuwabara admitted. "Definitely worse to a clown."

Genkai threw the plastic nose at Suzuka's face. "You lost a nose. Who cares? I ripped off vital organs that were real."

Suzuka rubbed his nose. "But I feel so naked without it."

"Stop your whining, you joker." Genkai cracked her knuckles. "I've put my whole body through hell to make it strong enough for my spirit wave orb. And you're crying about some nasal accessory?" She eyed him up and down. "You're not a real fighter. And I sure as hell won't waste what little spiritual energy I have left for your half-ass routine."

"You tell him, Genkai!" Tsuki shouted.

"Iku!"

Genkai put her fists up and smiled. "Why, it won't take more than these two bare wrinkled fists to knock that sissy makeup right off your face and onto the concrete right next to your rubber nose. So come on, kiddo! No matter what you throw, I promise not to use any weapon other than my own muscles to pound the beauty out of you."

"I'm not scared of an old lady. If you're not going to use your spiritual powers, then neither will I!" Suzuka flexed, ripping his shirt. "Toguro's got nothing on me! Grrr, welcome to the body of steel muscles explosion! Hahahaha!" He offered everyone a good view of his sculpted pecs and biceps. "Will you just look at these magnificent washboard abs? Watch me now as I flex my pecs."

Master Genkai dropped her hands. "Let me tell you what your problem is, Suzuka."

"Excuse me?" Suzuka aimed a furious glare at Genkai.

"Admittedly, you have talent. You helped scrounge up a team of third rank demons and found weapons that suited them well enough to get them to the semi-finals. You know more about arsenals and techniques than anyone that I have met." Genkai's hard stare focused on Suzuka's face. "But like a true idiot, you forgot all about your strength. You're nothing but surface. A suit up car without an engine to move it. You're even weaker than your frontman."

"Grr, I'll show you, old lady!" Suzuka lunged, but Genkai's thunderous right hook connected with his jaw. "Augh!"

"Hah!" A hard left connects with his ribs. Genkai dragged him up and smushed Suzuka's face into the ground.

"Alright, Genkai!" Tsuki cheered as Suzuka skirted in the ring.

"Iku!"

Genkai sprinted alongside him. "I'm not done yet!" She stomped on his back multiple times. Before landing in front of his face, kicking him hard.

The stunned Suzuka shot up like a rocket, slamming against the ceiling. He dropped, and Genkai delivered a bone-snapping punch to his lower back.

"Wow, she's amazing," Kuwabara complimented.

"And the fact that he's a substandard doesn't help him much," Kurama explained.

"You see, moron!" Genkai kicked his face. The brutal kick twirled Suzuka like a ballerina with his leg up. She met him in the end and threw multiple punches to his face and upper body. Fists flew at furious speed, blows, and counters. "You just don't have what it takes! Yahhh!"

"Woo hoo!" Tsuki clapped her hands. "That's my teacher!"

Master Genkai ended her assault and stepped back. "That's enough." She smiled as Suzuka swaggered left to right. "Oh, I forgot to look at that so-called beautiful face of his."

"Sheesh." Kuwabara's face jerked from Suzuka's battered face. "He's not beautiful anymore."

"What a self-conceited fool," Hiei stated.

"Um, are you okay?! Uh, ew!" Juri jumped away as the battered Suzuka toppled facedown in the ring. She poked at his butt. "It seems the beautiful Suzuka, who has a remarkably firmed tush, is pretty much incapacitated making Genkai the winner!"

The crowd booed and growled viciously, throwing their waste inside the arena.

"Yes, dear fans, as much as you want to kill them, Team Urameshi is going to the finals!" Koto declared. "Hopefully, we'll see more blood during Team Toguro vs. Team Gorenja's round tomorrow!"

Kuwabara's fist pumped the air. "That was so cool."

"Yes, we made it!" Tsuki and Iku jumped. "You were amazing, Genkai!"

"Phenomenal job," Kurama stated.

Hiei nodded in approval. "Nice work."

"Thank you." Master Genkai jumped out of the ring, heading to the triangular door. "Now, let's get the hell out of here."

"I'm glad that it's finally over." Tsuki picked up Iku, following right behind her. "What an intense round."

"Yes," Kurama agreed. "Unexpected turn of events."

Everyone relaxed once they entered the locker room. They sat and stood in silence before the door busted open.

"Genkai, you did great!" Botan complimented. "What an amazing match!"

"Hello, everyone." Yukina smiled warmly. "I enjoyed your match, Genkai."

Kuwabara immediately proceeded to ice maiden. "Yukina, hey! I-ow!" He covered his head and glared at his sister. "What was that for, sis?!"

"For losing twice in the same day, moron." Her expression softened at the rest of the group. "Looks like everyone survived. And you were so cool, Genkai."

"Thanks, girls."

Tsuki walked towards them, smiling sweetly. "I'm glad you girls are alright."

Botan gazed lovingly at Iku. "Is that your spiritual puppy?" He's so cute!"

Yukina patted Iku's head. "Yes, I like his color."

Iku barked and smiled, showing his teeth.

"Thanks, his name is Iku," Tsuki stated. "Where's Keiko and Puu?"

"We left them outside with Yusuke," Shizuru replied, eyes gleaming mischievously. "Keiko needed some alone time with him."

"Well, we should head back now," Kurama stated, as everyone headed out the room. "I'm sure he needs some rest from his test."

The demons avoided looking at the group while they walked down the hallway.

"Don't look now. It's the humans."

"Ugh, why can't they just die."

"Can't you believe we made it to the finals. You guys were all super." Botan cheered, putting her arm around Tsuki.

Yukina turned to Kuwabara, her face alight with joy. "I had a kick out of watching you fight, Kazuma."

"Why thank you, Yukina," Kuwabara replied happily. "It's nice to see someone appreciate my strategy. See, there was no one worth wasting my energy on, so I had the bad guys reveal their weaknesses so Tsuki and Genkai can take them down."

Shizuru snorted. "More like you made a big mess, and they cleaned up after you like someone always does."

"Hey! That stung sis!" Kuwabara fumed. "You take that back!"

"Just the truth, bro."

"Well, no one cares!"

"Actually," Hiei smirked, amused. "I like to hear it."

Kuwabara glared at him. His fists clenched to his sides. "Stay out of this, shorty."

"Now, children," Botan stated, lifting her hands. "Behave."

"Yes," Kurama tried his best to hide his smile. "We need to remain calm."

Genkai sighed and walked away. "I'm leaving."

Tsuki jogged after her, turning the corner. "Oh, Genk-." Tsuki stopped. Her soul trembled when she spotted Younger Toguro. It had been two months since their last meeting, and seeing him again made her skin crawl.

"Hey, Tsuki," Toguro greeted. "I had a fun time watching your match. You didn't even use Inari. Your grandfather would be proud."

Tsuki glared at him while Iku growled. "Screw you." Even if she wanted to, her energy was low to summon her fox goddess.

"Leave her alone, Toguro," Master Genkai stated. "Your problem is with me."

"Yes, you and I need to talk soon."

"I know. I'm well aware of it."

Toguro gave her a head nod and glanced at Tsuki again. "I look forward to your match with Kana. She's thrilled to be fighting the last female of the Saito Tribe."

"Go to hell."

"Haven't you noticed? We're already in hell." Toguro's steps echoed through the stadium as he walked away. Moments later, silence fell.

Anger burned through Tsuki, hitting her like a wave of heat. She glanced at Genkai when she rested her hand on her shoulder.

"Don't let him get the best of you. Focus on the match," she stated. "I believe in you."

"I will," Tsuki declared. The anger rose inside her and turned it into a steely determination. "Kana is going to pay."

"There you guys are!" Kuwabara stated as the rest of the group turned the corner. "Why did you guys run off?"

"Is something the matter, Tsuki?" Botan asked with a concerned face.

"It's nothing," Genkai spoke. "I was just describing the test that Yusuke had to endure."

"Yeah." Tsuki tried her best to smile at all of them. "I'm just worried. That's all."

"Oh, yes. He looked awful when we found him. I was going to help take care of him when we made it back to the hotel." Yukina touched Tsuki's hand. "You too. If you like."

Tsuki nodded and squeezed her hand. "That'll be nice."

Master Genkai stopped once they were close to the front entrance. "Kuwabara, girls, go ahead." She glanced at Tsuki, Hiei, and Kurama. "I need to talk to these three at the moment."

"Okay, Genkai." Botan nodded. Her and Yukina headed to the exit.

"Hey, what about me? I-ow!" Kuwabara squirmed while Shizuru pinched his ear.

"Shut it, loser. You lost, get over it." Shizuru dragged him away.

"Kurama, Hiei, Tsuki, I'm proud that you won your matches, but it's not over yet," Master Genkai explained. "Team Toguro is fighting tomorrow. You must watch the round closely. We need a win from each of you for the finals."

"Watch their fights? Sorry, old woman." Hiei placed his hands in his pockets as he proceeded to the front entrance. His eyes filled with determination. "I have more important ways to spend my time."

Tsuki glanced at him worriedly as he left. She couldn't blame Hiei for his stubbornness. Kuro's match was vicious. And he still needed time to perfect the dark dragon technique.

Master Genkai shook her head. "That boy is hard-headed." She glanced at Tsuki and Kurama with hopeful eyes. "Can I count on you guys?"

"Absolutely." Tsuki smiled. "I'm going."

"And she's not going alone," Kurama stated firmly. "She'll be safe with me."

"Good," Master Genkai proceeded to the exit, a pained expression on her face. "I can rest easy knowing everyone will be alright."

Tsuki's heart sank. I don't know why, but her tone is making me nervous.

"Ahh," Tsuki relaxed her body as Yukina's hands traveled down her bareback. Iku curled up next to her, laying on the pillow. "Your hands feel amazing, Yukina."

"It's awful what that demon woman did to you," Yukina stated sadly. "That attack must have been very painful."

"Yes, I want to slap her," Keiko confessed as she sat on Genkai's bed. Puu slept peacefully on the pillow. "What a sick and low ball move."

"I dreaded fighting her, but now I want to give her all of my fury," Tsuki said darkly. "She has no remorse for her actions."

"I'm just glad you're safe, Tsuki," Yukina replied, looking serene and angelic. "Even if you don't forgive her for her actions. I felt the same way when Tarukane first kidnapped me, but once I got used to his evil ways, his darkness didn't seem to bother me anymore."

Tsuki smiled. Her own moping suddenly seemed stupid when compared with what she had to go through. "You're a strong girl, Yukina."

"You too, Tsuki. And that should do it." Yukina gave her one last good rub before standing up. "I hope you're feeling better."

"Yes, much better," Tsuki stated, putting back her tracksuit jacket. "Thank you for healing me."

"Anytime." Yukina rubbed Iku's head before leaving the room. "I'm going to check on Yusuke now. Sleep well tonight, Tsuki."

Keiko got up and sat on Tsuki's bed. "How are you really feeling?"

Tsuki rested her head on her shoulder. "I'm better but tired of this madness. I want to go home."

"Me too, but I'm glad you guys made it to the finals," Keiko stated. "Yusuke passed his test, so I assumed he'll be ready to face Toguro."

Tsuki lifted her head and stared Keiko in the eyes. "Apologies for keeping the test from you. I just didn't want you to worry."

"I know. I'm just glad he's safe. And spending time with him made me realize that he's strong enough to face anything that comes his way." Keiko's eyes glistened while she blushed. "That's one of the reasons I love him so much."

Tsuki's heart fluttered, remembering her day with Hiei. She was nervous but sitting with Keiko here reminded her that she was her best friend. Tsuki could tell her anything, and she wouldn't judge her. "Keiko, I have a confession. It's about Hiei. I think I'-"

"Crushing on him?" Keiko cut in while Tsuki blushed slightly. "It's pretty obvious. Since when?"

"I don't know. It just happened. We started talking and opening up to each other. And he helped me out a lot." Tsuki paused for a moment, biting her lip. "But he's..."

"He's what?"

"He's crazy and dark. On the other hand, he's smart and funny - in a twisted way - and somehow has a calming effect on me. And not too long ago, he kidnapped you in an attempt to get some treasures back."

"What?" Keiko thought for a moment. "Oh yeah, I forgot about that."

"You remember?"

"Vaguely. It's all a blur. I thought it was a dream."

Tsuki touched her forehead, brushing her hair back. "Am I going crazy? I can't get him out of my head no matter how hard I try. Every time I'm near him, he makes my heart all warm and fuzzy."

"Oh yeah, you're definitely into him." Keiko gave her a teasing smile. "Have you dreamt about him yet? I mean, we did talk about the birds and the bees."

"Keiko!"

"Ok, I'll stop." When the next words left Keiko's lips, Tsuki couldn't believe it. "I think...he might be...good for you."

Tsuki's eyes lit up. "You mean it?"

"Tsuki, I've never seen you crazy over a guy before. And so what he kidnapped me? I'm alright. And it seems you and Yusuke forgave him too." Keiko nudged her. "I know you can handle his personality. I don't know Hiei personally, but I can say he's very intense."

"I don't mind." Tsuki thought about Hiei's piercing stares. She liked it when he looked at her. "The more intense, the better."

"There you go. You have nothing to worry about. But before you get all lovey-dovey, you should focus on the finals and kicking that crazy witch butt."

"Agreed. I appreciate the advice, Keiko."

"Anytime. I know this is your first crush, but don't sweat it. What's meant to be will happen. You see my relationship with Yusuke. It took a while, but eventually, we got together."

Got together? Tsuki's face turned scarlet. She didn't think too much about having Hiei as a boyfriend. Now I'm getting nervous. But then again, hope filled her mind.

My heart beats for you

No matter how hard I fight it

I'm drawing nearer and nearer

But will you back away?

Tsuki strummed her koto's strings, humming her melody. The dark clouds vanished, revealing the waning moon. Stars cluttered the black sky, sharp and bright. The night air was soft and infinite around her.

I crave for your passion

I crave for your love

Don't push me away

My heart is vulnerable

Iku ran back and forth across the field. Each time Tsuki enhanced her melody, he'll circle her and bark happily.

I hope you feel these words

It comes from my soul

A part of me I rarely share

Please listen and answer

Tsuki closed her eyes, finishing her last notes with a powerful ending. For her, Hiei was a real-life fantasy. In a short time she got to know him, Tsuki didn't feel alone. He understood her fear. He understood her pain. Being in his presence made her strong to conquer her inner darkness.

Iku sat next to her and dropped a stick. Tsuki threw the stick down the hill that headed to the beach. She grabbed her koto and followed her excited puppy.

Tsuki inhaled the salty freshwater while dabbing her feet inside the wet sand. Inside of her, there was a warm fuzzy feeling building. Her heart was pounding, and it wasn't only fear of the storm. Things were crazy in her world right now, but she had all these great people with her. As long as they were all together, everything would be alright. Everyone will survive.