2 : HOUSEMATES

         " Who’s the best looking guy in hollywood?"
         " Keanu Reeves!"
         " Brad Pitt looks a hundred times better!"
         " How ‘bout Johnny Depp?"
         " Ooohh!", they drooled.
        Keiko cleared her throat. " How ‘bout being realistic? I mean, we’ll never meet those guys!" She cocked her head sideways. " In our dreams probably but . ."
         " Well there are some cute guys in Kurama’s school . . .", Yukina’s voice trailed off.
        Their eyes bulged at her.
        " Ahah! So YOU’ve been scouting!", Botan realized.
         " Uh, not really . . .", Yukina said quietly.
        Shizuru blew a puff of smoke. " My pigheaded brother wouldn’t be happy to hear this."
        The ice maiden blushed wildly. " I-I’m not saying I’m out looking for a boyfriend. Besides Kuwabara’s already there for me."
        Botan held up her nose. " Look at me, I haven’t been flirting with lots of men!"
         " Because you haven’t been turning your attention to anyone else in that school!", Keiko blurted out then turned to Yukina. " Am I right, Yukina?"
        She grinned. " Well . . . she was with me when we passed by Meiou High so . . ."
         " . . . so she was scouting out Kurama, is that it?", Shizuru said bluntly.
         " Huh?!" Botan appeared surprised. Now, how in the world did they found out about that? Oh shucks! What am I saying?! I wasn’t sure if I have any feelings for him at all. Infatuation? Could be. Love? Nah!
        Keiko peered at her, grinning mischievously. " We know you like him very much."
         " Is he the tall handsome guy with red hair?", Midori asked.
        Yukina bobbed her head. " Yup, he’s the one."
         " Wait a minute!", Botan placed her hands on her hips. " How could you be so sure?!"
         " Um, we have our sources.", Shizuru aired.
         " Ahhhh.", Botan bit her lip. " What sources?"
        Keiko evaded her question and instead turned to Shizuru. " You’ve been telling me about that officemate of yours . . ."
        The tall girl tossed her long caramel hair and sighed. " I couldn’t settle down in a serious relationship for now."
        Midori reached in to take some spices, briefly glancing at her. " Why not?"
        Shizuru frowned. " Well, I have to watch my stupid brother until he finished school."
         " Drat! It sure takes an ounce of devotion, a pound of strength and tons of patience to handle such responsibility.", Botan commented.
         " Tell me about it!" Shizuru replied grimly. " But he’s my brother. And no matter how stupid he is, I still love him."
        Suddenly, Yukina sniffled softly.
        The rest looked at her worriedly.
         " Yukina, what’s wrong?", Midori asked.
         " She’s searching for her long-lost brother.", Keiko told her.
         " Oh." Midori uttered. " Don’t worry. My grandmother used to tell me that all things you lost will eventually come back to you. And I believed that."
        Yukina nodded then flashed them a faint smile. " I hope your grandma’s right."
        Botan eyed her carefully. No words could describe the way her friend feels towards her brother. It was clear that she already realized that the person she’s looking for is within reach. She probably doesn’t know how to break it to him.
        The blue haired girl turned to the pot roast she’s stirring. Sometimes she wished she could do anything about the two. If she could only talk Hiei into admitting his true identity, then both of them need not suffer.
         " When are you planning to get married?", Shizuru’s voice broke into her thoughts. The topic was once again changed.
        Kuwabara’s sister was gaping at Keiko while Midori and Yukina was watching her closely.
        Keiko immediately turned crimson. " Um . . . Next year?"
         " Next year? I thought he told you he’ll marry you as soon as he got back from Makai?", Botan demanded.
        Keiko crossed her hands in over her chest, raising her nose up in the air. " I told him he has to finish college first. Or else, what will happen to us?"
        The three girls raised their eyebrows.
        Keiko wagged her finger in front of them. " I couldn’t just eat bean sprouts or sardines everyday. I’m a little delicate y’know."
         " You have a point there.", Shizuru remarked. " That’s why I’ve been pushing my stupid brother to study harder."
         " Well, I guess love could wait.", Yukina smiled, raising one plump tomato.
        Botan walked over to Midori, carrying a large serving dish. " How about you Midori? Do you have someone special?"
        The seemingly shy dark-haired girl almost dropped her wooden spoon. " Uh . ."
         " Does that means a yes?", Yukina teased.
        Midori smiled.
         " C’mon tell us about him?", Shizuru prodded.
        Midori glanced at them shyly, her eyes starting to wander. " He’s my age, a fine gentleman and very handsome."
        Botan cried shrilly while Shizuru nudged their host, urging her to tell more.
         " We loved each other so much." Midori blushed, rearranging the chicken legs on a long tray. " He makes me do things I wouldn’t normally do for a friend. Like exercising the virtue of patience and insubordination."
         " I know what you mean.", Keiko agreed. " Love could be so powerful it drives you crazy."
         " How many times have you said the L-word?", Botan asked.
        The others giggled.
        Botan pouted. " It was an honest question."
         " I need not say it often. ‘Cause he knew it very well. I’ll do anything for him.", a tiny smile creeping across her pale face. " Anything just for him."

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        Hiei pushed open a large wooden door as he stepped into a dark small room. He groped across the wall for the switch and found it.
        Instantly, a dim light went on.
        It was a parlor, he realized.
        Hiei walked to the center of the room and looked around.
        Frames hung in a row on one wall. He approached one and stared at the picture. It was of a lovely woman who, without the ornate headdress and make-up would look very much like Midori. She must’ve been her grandmother.
        He walked over to the next picture. A blue-eyed young man of their age wearing an old-fashioned suit looked poised and confident. Along with the first two was a guy with a slicked-down black hair. His slender face bore a solemn expression.
        Moving to the other, he saw a girl who looked small and delicate with high cheekbones, creamy skin and flashing green eyes. The last portrait was that of a wiry redhead who appears to be the clown of the group.
        Hiei stepped back and sat on an old plush chair at the corner. All five frames in full view. Their painted eyes looked alive in the dark, meeting his gaze with accusing eyes.
        Hiei’s red eyes glared back at the portraits. He doesn’t understand why ningens have to pose for such useless still images of themselves. For self-adoration, perhaps.
        He scowled at the frozen smiles before him. Its just a bit confusing since from what he had seen with his friends’ house all portraits are those of the family. Judging from their physical features, these people don’t seem to be related to each other.
         " Hn! They still looked dumb and stupid anyway!", he muttered as he stood up.
        But just as he was about to leave, he noticed a narrow steel door partially concealed with a huge statue of a black hound.
        Hiei felt the urge of inspecting it. Maybe there’s something interesting within. Treasure? Some old crap? He wasn’t sure. All he knew was that old houses usually keep old secrets.
        And secrets always sounds fun.
         " Hiei!", a soft voice called.
        The fire demon glanced at the door in time to see a small ice maiden passing by.
         " Over here!", he stepped out of the room. " What is it?"
        Yukina flashed him a smile. " Dinner’s ready. C’mon let’s eat."
        Hiei nodded and followed her to the dining area. He would just check out that hidden door later.

-----------------------------------------------------------

         " Keiko, aren’t you going to eat?"
        She smiled at them, taking a small bowl of soup into a tray already loaded with a glass of orange juice and two plates of fried chicken and tempura. " I’ll join Yusuke with his upstairs."
         " That booger sure is lucky to have her!", Kuwabara snorted after Keiko left the dining area.
        Shizuru shot him a venomous glare.
         " He’s referring to himself.", Hiei suddenly remarked, popping a shrimp into his mouth.
         " Shut up, you pimp!", Kuwabara yelled.
        Botan reached for a serving of sushi. " C’mon guys that’s enough."
        Kurama munched on his own serving. " Mmm. This is very good. Who made this?"
         " Midori.", Botan answered. " With help from me, of course."
        Shizuru raised her eyebrows. " Help?"
        Botan twirled his spoon. " Well, . . . . a little help, I mean."
        Yukina coughed a bit.
         " Oh, alright! So I was the one who cut it into pieces, that’s all!", Botan resigned.
        Midori blushed. " I’m glad you guys like it. Botan really helped me out, though."
        Botan smiled at her.
         " She really know her way around the kitchen. I hope she teaches me some of her secrets.", Yukina said.
        Kuwabara looked surprised. " Why? There’s nothing wrong with your cooking, Yukina! I’ll eat anything you cooked."
         " Yeah, he globs anything.", Shizuru muttered.
         " Thanks for the meal, girls.", Kurama said, placing a spoonful of salmon on his plate. " This one looks tempting . . ."
         " I did it myself!", Botan beamed, peering at him, excitedly. " What do you think?"
        Kurama stared at his piece and chewed on it carefully. Not bad. Probably lack some salt? He doesn’t want to say it, though. He might hurt her feelings. " Um, sumptuous."
         " Yum.", Kuwabara said flatly.
        Hiei wrinkled his face. " Are you kidding? It tastes like cardboard!"
        Botan stood up, her face reddening. " What did you say?"
        Before the situation could worsen, Kurama grabbed a pitcher and poured all its contents on his glass. " Uh, oops no more juice!", he announced.
        Midori jumped, grabbing the empty pitcher. " I’ll go fill it. You guys enjoy your meal."

-----------------------------------------------------------

         " Why didn’t she go ahead with the plan? Don’t tell me she’s chickening out?", a cocky male voice voiced out from behind the dark counter at the back of the kitchen.
        A female voice said. " She probably doesn’t want to help us."
        Midori passed by the counter, carrying an empty pitcher. Without looking, she slipped a note through the counter.
        A hand quickly picked up the scrap of paper as four pairs of eyes read on the message.
        Another voice cried out in excitement. " Guess we have to do it the hard and exciting way."
         " I don’t mind having a little fun.", the cocky guy said.
        A tall silhouette glanced at his male companion. " Just make sure she’ll fill in her part of the bargain."
         " We don’t have to worry about that. She won’t try anything funny.", said the guy, his low and firm voice sounded secure.

        A few minutes later the group have finished their dinner. Each individual had retired to their rooms assigned to them. The estate was so huge they needn’t have to share bedrooms. But they do have to share one common bathroom since the others where unkempt.
        The girls were given rooms located on the west wing, third floor. Botan walked into the bathroom. She marveled at how it was made. It was huge with finely decorated cream-colored tiles covering the entire wall. The smell of scented candles invaded her nostrils. " Hmm. If only my bathroom could even be half the size of this."
        She took off her clothes and stepped into the bath tub. If she knew better. It could well pass off as a Jacuzzi.
        Yukina was right. This is a lovely house. It’s just been neglected, probably because Midori could only clean up the house every weekend.
        She slouched a little, gathering up some bubbles in her hands and bringing them to her face.
        All of a sudden, a cold breeze blew softly right behind her. Botan gasped, feeling a chilling sensation on her nape. As if someone was breathing down on it. She quickly turned her head but saw nothing but the cream-colored wall.
        She sat still for a moment, straining her ears for any sound. A few seconds later, she heard a soft, ghostly whisper.
        Botan felt her body tensed. It was coming right from behind her. But the tub was leaning onto a concrete wall and there’s no more space for anyone to stand in between.
        No matter how much she tried to keep herself calm, she couldn’t. Her knees trembled as she felt something moved behind her.
        Slowly. Lightly. Hovering cautiously.
        Out of the corner of her eye, she saw something, moved across the wall. What is it?
        She sucked in her breath as it glided right around the bathroom walls. Then it stopped right in front of her..
        Botan was petrified, anticipating the worst.
        Suddenly the shadow started to fade. Its gray hues turned lighter and lighter until the wall was once again a wash of unblemished cream.
        Closing her eyes, she relaxed a little, wishing it won’t come back.
        But something told her to look up. She took a deep breath then slowly, raised her eyes.
        Botan jumped, shivering at the sight of a horrid face pressed against the now rubber-like wall. The face twisted, its mouth opened in a hideous silent agony. It’s blank cream eyes seemed to stare straight at her.
         " Go away!" Shaking in fright, Botan started to cry, gripping the sides of the tub as if she’s holding for dear life.
        Instantly, it vanished just as Botan heard the door squeaked.
        Botan cocked her head to the side. " M-Midori?", she called shakily, glad for the interruption.
        No answer.
        Botan shifted her gaze through the screen and saw a silhouette. The silhouette doesn’t appear to be a woman. Trying to ease herself from that horrid experience, she snickered a bit, it could be any of her two friends. " Kurama? Yusuke? Can’t you wait? You’re going to have the bath tub all to yourself when I’m done."
        Though its fairly impossible for those two to do such a careless act. Yusuke being badly injured and Kurama, well, not exactly the type of guy who would just barge into a bathroom still occupied by a lady. Unless, of course, he considers her a lady. But then again guys are guys and she knew they wouldn’t pass up the opportunity to play a mean trick on her. " Whoever you are you can’t scare me. You have to do better than that!"
        Suddenly a hand slipped into the opening and pushed open the screen.
         " Hey. . ?!", Botan swallowed hard.
        A teenage boy with neatly combed black hair stood beside the tub. His handsome blue eyes stared at her.
        Botan shook off her fright, her face flushed with anger. " How rude! Don’t you see I’m taking a bath!"
         " I can see that.", his voice sound cool and eerily calm. A voice which reminds her very much of Youko Kurama.
        Botan glared at him. She doesn’t like this guy. One second and she knew he’s a first-class jerk. " What are you waiting for? Get outta here or I’ll call my friends!"
        The guy didn’t budge, instead he moved closer, leaning his medium frame on the tub. " My name’s Seiji. What’s yours?"
         " Get out!!", Botan yelled at the top of her lungs. " Yusuke, Kurama, Hiei, Kuwabara!!! Help!!!"
        Seiji ignored her. " Botan, is it?"
         " Guys!!! Midori!!! In here!!", Botan desperately searched for something to use as a weapon. Where are those guys anyway!
         " Has anyone told you, you looked like a princess?", he continued.
        At this, Botan stopped. She was taken aback by his compliment. " Uh, no." She could feel her face flushing, this time with embarrassment. Who is this boy? Is he a relative of Midori?
         " Not even your guy friends?"
        She shook her head. She had hoped that Yusuke would notice her. But then there’s Keiko for him. And Kurama? He’s too smart and proper to even like a scatterbrain like her.
        Seiji gave her the most adorable smile she had ever seen. " You have such beautiful hair.", he reached out to feel a lock which has escaped from her bun.
        Botan could now smell his fresh manly cologne. Suddenly, she felt herself being drawn to him.
         " Your eyes.", he regarded her with the most intense gaze she had ever received. " The color of wildflowers, intriguing, so lovely"
        Botan couldn’t speak. His handsome face now inches from hers. Feeling suddenly conscious, she fervently hoped he won’t be able to see her naked body through the thick layer of bubbles.
        Without warning, he leaned over and pressed his lips to hers. It lasted a few seconds then Botan gently pushed him away.
         " I think you should leave.", her voice was barely above whisper. She should be angry, right? Why did she felt so . . . moony all of a sudden? " Please."
        Please? For heaven’s sake! He’s an intruder! A voice rang in her head.
         " I’ll see you again, Botan.", he vowed to her.
        He closed the screen and went out silently.
        Botan stared through the screen until she could no longer see his silhouette.
        A minute past then suddenly, the room burst open. Kurama came rushing into the bathroom. He stopped dead in his tracks the moment he saw her. " Uh, you okay?"
        Embarrassment and obvious discomfort clouded over his anxious face. " You screamed. What happened?"
         " Nothing.", Botan replied in a flat tone.
        Kurama eyed her carefully. Her purple eyes stared back at him blankly. " Are you sure? That doesn’t sound ‘nothing’ , you sounded terrified."
         " I’m fine now."
         " You still didn’t tell me what happened."
         " He said he’ll see me again.", she said, her face clouded over, contrasting to a small grin slowly forming on her lips.
        Kurama knitted his brows. " Who?" She sure is acting strange. He wanted to stay out of the bathroom but Botan’s daze expression prevented him.
         " Seiji."
         " Seiji?" Now who the hell is Seiji? Kurama thought. This would surely be long and . . interesting. " Look, why don’t you dress up first. I’ll wait outside and you tell me about it."
        Without warning, Botan stood up, unmindful of the kitsune before her.
        Kurama’s mouth opened in shock. Before he could even get a glimpse of her naked form, he quickly turned away as a splash of soapy water poured down from the tub, soaking his shoes.
         " Okay, whatever you say." Like a mechanical doll, Botan walked towards the changing section.
        Kurama could hear her synchronized footsteps. " Botan . . .", he whispered. He walked out of the room without a backward glance.
        He stepped from the bathroom and out into her bedroom. His thoughts wandered over her words, her glassy eyes and tight gestures. She doesn’t appear to be conscious about anything.
        Kurama sat on a wicker chair and caught the dancing willow trees outside. They’ve been staying for only a few hours, but he couldn’t take any positive vibrations within the estate.
         " Something’s wrong. Something’s definitely wrong.", he murmured.

-----------------------------------------------------------

         " . . . have to find Yukina’s brother . . . blah . . blah . . ."
        Yusuke opened one eye and glanced briefly at his miserable friend. Kuwabara has been babbling for hours about Yukina. On how much they connected that day they saved her from the millionaire to the day he started visiting her in Genkai’s dojo.
        Yusuke has given up listening for about thirty minutes now but the mention of Yukina’s brother was enough to get his attention.
         " . . . blah . . we’re going to get married at the . . ."
         " Wait!", Yusuke cut in.
        Kuwabara looked displeased. " I was just getting to the best part!"
        Yusuke rolled his eyes. " As if . . ."
         " You were saying . . .?", Kuwabara demanded.
         " Nothing.", Yusuke grinned then turned serious. " About Yukina’s long lost brother . . ."
         " What? Have you found him?", Kuwabara asked excitedly.
         " No, I haven’t. But I wanted to ask . . . what do you expect of him?"
        Kuwabara thought for a moment. " Hmm . . . just like her? Kind-hearted, soft-spoken . . . probably good-looking because . . . well of course he IS Yukina’s brother . . ."
        A smile tugged at the corners of Yusuke’s mouth.
        Kind-hearted? Soft-spoken?
        He wanted to laugh out loud. In fact, he could feel one threatening to escape from his throat.
        Kuwabara noticed his sudden change of expression. " What’s wrong?"
        Yusuke shook his head. " Do you expect Yukina’s brother to like you?"
         " Why of course! I, Kazuma Kuwabara, powerful and . . ", he flexed his muscles, looking smug and proud. " . . and handsome . . would surely impress any of my love’s relatives."
         " Are you sure? What if he hates you?"
         " Wait a minute! What’s all the question?", Kuwabara asked. " Do you know something that I don’t?"
        Yusuke gulped. " No comment." He eyed his best friend for a while, dreading the day when he finally learns the truth about Yukina’s long-lost brother.
         " I know that you liked her a lot. So just a word of advice . . .", Yusuke started.
        Kuwabara raised his eyebrows, surprised at his sudden change of tone.
         " When the time comes that you’ll have to meet Yukina’s brother." Yusuke paused. " Expect the worst, Kuwabara."
         " Weird!" Kuwabara wrinkled his face. " I think you’ve ran out of energy, my friend. Oh please! Have some rest! It’ll help you reorganize your thoughts. When the time comes . . . then I’ll talk to you again. Alright?!"
        Yusuke laughed.
        Kuwabara stood up from his chair beside Yusuke’s bed. " I’ll go find my princess." He announced. He turned his back and stepped out of the room.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Yukina washed her dainty hands on the sink. She had volunteered to wash the dishes. The others have clearly expressed their dislike over this specific chore but the ice youkai appeared to like it. Her thin lips curved in a cute smile, Kuwabara volunteered to help but she insisted that he needs to sleep after their battle early this afternoon.
        It took her a while to convince Midori that she’ll be fine handling the dishes alone. Their hostess consented when she brought up the subject about her biology assignment. In a flash, the petite black-haired girl hurried to her room to start working on it.
        Yukina felt cold water splashing through her fingers, rinsing off detergent bubbles.
        Suddenly a soft sound filled the air.
        She straightened up, straining her ears. There . . . a noise. It sounds unintelligible at first then she caught it loud and clear.
         " Help!"
        Yukina’s red eyes appeared frightened. " Kazuma? Hiei? Guys?"
        No answer.
        Then it came on again. Louder this time.
         " Help me!!"
        She turned her gaze towards the wall beside the sink. Behind the wall was the dining area. She turned on her heals and walked to the adjoining room. Her hands flicked on the switch. It was the same sight as they left it a while ago after dinner. The long table and rows of elegant chairs. Yukina searched the wall right behind the sink on the other side. There was nothing there. Just plain cream paint.
        Suddenly, the voice resounded.
        Yukina immediately withdrew her hand from the wall then backed up against the long table.
        The sound appears to come from within the wall!
        " Yukina!"
        The ice maiden jumped at the sound of a soft female voice.
        She shook her head hard, as if shaking away a bad dream. " Uh, Keiko! I’ll be there.", she answered, making her way back into the kitchen.
        Yukina reached the kitchen but she saw nobody. " Keiko?" She saw a single unwashed plate on the sink. She sighed. Must be Yusuke’s. She picked up the dirty china and turned on the faucet. Warm water slipped through her fingers. Then a metallic sound clunked behind her.
        She looked behind and saw a small rat scuttling through the small kitchen table.
        Her breath came out in woosh. Boy! Was she getting jumpy!
        Suddenly she felt warm and soft on her hands. She turned her attention back to the dish. A sea of inch-long slimy brownish red creatures flowed from the faucet. Wriggling. Slithering their moist bodies on top of one another.
        Realizing what it was, Yukina let out an earsplitting scream.

        4 : FIRST VICTIMS

         " Hiei! Oh shoot! You scared the hell out of me!"
         " What’s the matter? You should have felt my ki.", Hiei said, his eyes wandered around the room. " I saw Keiko granting herself a tour on the parlor."
         " Parlor? She went downstairs?", Yusuke looked surprised. " She told me she’ll get me some sheets. It’s damn too freezing in here." He chattered his teeth as he reached for a pillow.
        Hiei snickered. " Seems she’s tired of taking care of you."
        Yusuke glared at him. " Something probably caught her interest. I wouldn’t hold her back if she wanted to look around this creepy mansion."
         " Hn! She seemed interested, alright . . . ", Hiei hang the words, his red eyes flashed mischievously. " . . . in a bunch of portraits of handsome 18th century guys!"
        Yusuke raised an eyebrow in his direction then he smiled nonchalantly. " A bunch of old-fashioned guys are no match for Yusuke Urameshi.", he aired, banging his bandaged fist on his chest proudly. " Why would I be jealous of them. They’re probably dead anyway."
         " They don’t look dead to me.", Hiei remarked suddenly. He clenched his fist. Damn! Now he had given a chance for Yusuke to make fun of him.
        But his injured comrade doesn’t appear amused at all. In fact, he looked threatened. "What makes you say that?"
        Hiei didn’t answer. Tell me how somebody be a threat to him if he’s already six feet under, he thought. " Who would ever think those silly portraits would signify something?", he asked himself.
         " How do you wished to die, Yusuke?", Hiei asked, changing the subject.
        The spirit detective instantly looked alarmed.
        Hiei laughed at his expression. " I’m not going to finish you! It was just a question!"
        Yusuke heaved a huge a sigh. " Yeah, that was what I thought anyway!"
         " So?"
         " I don’t know. I haven’t thought of it.", Yusuke replied. " Why do you ask?"
        Hiei shrugged. " I’ve been helping your fucking ass long enough. We’ve met all sorts of powerful characters. Like Toguro and Sensui."
         " And?"
         " I’m just wondering if we’re looking for the same thing."
        Both fell into silence.
        Both enemies had the same purpose and that is to find someone much stronger and powerful. So that they would be killed in what a fighter would call ‘ a noble way to die’ .
         " I once thought about that, too.", Yusuke said, breaking the silence.
         " I think all warriors are like that.", the fire demon remarked. " But I’m worried I won’t die the way I wanted to."
        Yusuke raised his eyebrows. Its so weird talking to Hiei about this. He crossed his arms above his head, thinking about the same thing.

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         " Wow!", Keiko gushed at the large portraits on one wall of the old parlor. " Do you know who they are, Midori?"
         " Those are friends . .", she replied.
        Keiko appeared confused. " Friends? Midori, they’ll looked as old as your grandmother!"
         " That’s what I meant, Keiko. They’re friends of my great great grandmother.", Midori said.
         " Oh. They’re all pretty and handsome.", Keiko commented, admiring their elegant dresses. " Your grandmother did an excellent job in preserving these paintings. She must’ve told you a lot of stories behind them. Oh, I would really love to meet her! . . . Um, by the way, where is she?"
        No answer.
         " Midori?"
         " Uh, she’s gone."
         " Oh.", Keiko looked embarrassed. "I’m sorry.".
        Midori smiled reassuringly. " Its okay. Its not your fault." She picked up one blank frame and hang it onto the wall right beneath the clown.
         " What are those for?", Keiko asked, helping her realigned the frames.
         " For some friends."
         " Friends?", Keiko gave her an inquisitive look. " Your friends?"
        Midori nodded. " I like having pictures of my friends."
         " That’s so sweet.", Keiko remarked.
        Midori beamed. " Thank you. I paid special attention to the type of canvass, I’m going to use."
         " Really?"
         " Go on feel its texture.", Midori prodded.
        Keiko eyed the canvass admiringly. It does look expensive and fine. She raised her hands, her fingertips longed to touch the flowing texture of the canvass.
        Midori looked at her expectantly.
        Keiko was about to run her fingers through the canvass when . . .
         " Keiko!!"
        Both girls jumped at Shizuru’s booming voice.
        Panting hard, Shizuru reached the parlor. " Where have you been? Yusuke’s been calling you! His wounds are bleeding again."
        In an instant, Keiko was heading for the door, looking really worried. Then she stopped and called at Shizuru. " Aren’t you coming?"
         " No you go ahead. I still have to look for Yukina.", Shizuru said then turned to Midori as soon as Keiko was out of sight. " We’re really sorry if we’re causing so much trouble and noise in here."
        Midori shook her head, smiling cheerfully. " Are you kidding? This is probably the first time this house has ever lightened up."
        Shizuru then noticed the blank canvasses. " Hmm, exquisite. What are those for?"
        Midori blushed at her compliment. " I’ll put up my friends’ pictures in there."
        Shizuru eyed the girl carefully. Wow! She’s extremely generous to honor her peers such expensive tribute. " Your friends must’ve been really special to you."
         " Very special. I even chose the best canvass for their portraits. Feel it for yourself.", Midori said proudly.
        Without wasting any moments, Shizuru ran her fingers on the smooth surface. It feels fine alright.
        Then suddenly a beam of bright light emitted from the frame. Then it was gone in a second.
        Midori smiled. She picked up her portfolio, turned out the light and walked out of the room. She closed the door, leaving the dark empty parlor behind her.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        The heavy oak door flew open and Keiko came rushing in to Yusuke’s room. " What’s wrong? Yusuke, are you alright?"
        Yusuke almost laughed at her worried face. " Of course I am. A small wound won’t kill me!"
        Keiko immediately reached his side and pulled his hair. " That’s not funny.". she pouted good-naturedly. She fingered a soft wool blanket then flung it on her fiance’s medium frame. " Sorry. If I stayed downstairs too long."
        Yusuke eyed her fondly. " Hey, I didn’t forbid you to look around the house.", he said gently, reaching out to touch her hand.
        At this, Hiei was on his feet in a flash. No sense watching sugary gestures of this two pathetic lovers!
         " Thanks, Hiei.", Yusuke called to him.
        Hiei stopped for a moment. " Hn!" Then he was out.
         " What does that mean?", Keiko asked.
        Yusuke gazed at her innocently. " Nothing." He coughed loudly.
        Keiko arranged the pillows on his head.
        Yusuke watched her, his admiration towards her was overflowing. " Thank you.", he suddenly uttered.
         " For what?", she asked.
        Yusuke smiled. " For everything."
        Keiko looked surprised. Yusuke wasn’t the sentimental type. Though she knew how valuable their relationship is to him, he was seldom expressive about it. And the only time he was getting mushy was when he has done something unpleasant.
         " You ran into trouble again, aren’t you?", she demanded. " Spill it!"
        Yusuke grinned. " Well . . . there’s this pretty girl in English class . . ."
        He started to laugh upon seeing her frown. " Just kidding!"
         " Hmph! That’s not a good one!", Keiko pouted then she noticed a small tray of medicines. " Oh, I forgot! Your medication!" She reached in and took the glass from the tray. " Wait here. I’ll get some water."
         " You be back?!", he asked.
         " Don’t worry. I won’t roam anymore.", she assured, closing the door behind her.

        Keiko rushed down the grand carpeted staircase and turned left to the kitchen. As she was about to open a double door leading to the dining area, a tall figure ran straight into her.
        Keiko lost her balance at the impact. She tried to keep herself from falling but her efforts were useless. Just moments before she hit the hard marbled floor, strong hands encircled her waist and held her steady against the wall.
        She lifted her shaken brown eyes to meet her savior.
        Then she inhaled sharply. A tall young man stood before her. His straight black hair combed neatly against his handsome face. His dark features complimenting magnificently with his black jacket and pants. Closely resembling Keanu Reeves in his last movie, the Matrix.
         " Are you alright?", he asked gently. His soft, cool voice send shivers down her spine. He was so . . . ravishing.
        His dark eyes wrinkled, boring into her own. " I’m sorry. That was so stupid of me --- running into you."
        Keiko shook her head fretfully. " Oh no! It was my fault. I wasn’t being careful." She blabbered, feeling like a clumsy idiot. Her eyes wandered over his soft lips. How delighted she would be given a chance to kiss those lips of his.
         " Do you need anything in here?", his voice cut in his thoughts.
        Yes, I do need something. What was that again? She raked her mind to find the answer but all she found was hazy visions. Then her eyes focused on the handsome young man before her, still clutching his waist with his strong arms, poring at her with serious eyes. Yes, I do need something. It’s him.
         " What’s your name?", he asked.
         " Keiko."
         " That was the most beautiful name I’ve ever heard. Perfect for a lovely lady like you.", he purred, slowly leaning toward her.
        Keiko blushed. She had never felt this surge of emotion for any other man. Never felt so close to anyone. Not even . . . Not even who? She doesn’t remember. A hazy picture of a guy flashed across her memory but she dismissed it right away.
         " By the way, I’m Fujiro. Do you want to have some tea? I’ve prepared some in the patio."
         " I’d love to.", graciously she took his hand as he led her to the opposite wing, away from the kitchen.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Yusuke turned on his side impatiently. It was already over an hour and Keiko hasn’t returned. It sure doesn’t take five minutes to get a glass of water!
         " Seems she forgot her promise.", he muttered. His stomach grumbled. He was a bit hungry, too. His body felt like lead, but he tried to sit up anyway. What’s taking for his wounds to heal? Usually it’ll only take him a few hours but as hours passed by he felt his condition worsening. Where’s Kurama anyway? And Yukina? He hoped they would remember to heal him.
        Suddenly his arms collapsed. Yusuke shrank back into the covers. " Oh boy! This is hopeless!"
        Here he was looking all too pathetic and impotent. And to add insult to injury was abandoned by his girlfriend. " Keiko . . please come back here.", he groaned. He closed his eyes and silently wished she will soon.
        Almost instantly, the door opened. Yusuke felt soft steps approaching his side. He didn’t bother to open his eyes. Instead, he snuggled into the soft mattress of his bed.
        He felt a soft touch on his forehead, constantly stroking his hair. Yusuke moaned. It was always so soothing to feel Keiko’s touch on his hair. " Keiko . ."
        Slowly, he opened his eyes to see her pretty face and . . . " Huh?!"
        Immediately he sat up, blushing profusely. Instead of a brown-haired, brown eyed girl, a petite black-haired woman stood before him.
         " Midori!", he doesn’t know what to say. " Uh, I’m sorry. I-I thought . ."
        Midori looked equally embarrassed. " I should be the one to apologize. I didn’t mean to pretend or anything." She played with the hems of her blouse nervously. " It’s just that, I heard you complaining I while ago and I just walked in to see if you’re alright." She lowered her dark eyes, refusing to meet his gaze.
        Yusuke’s face softened. He almost yelled at her face when all her intention was to insure his health. " I’m sorry to alarm you. Its just that I was hungry and technically abandoned by my girlfriend." He smiled at her, trying to tell her that its alright.
         " By the way. Have you seen Keiko?, he asked.
        Midori shook her head. " I thought she was here with you."
         " Oh, no. She went downstairs to get some water. I’m supposed to take my medicine."
         " Really? I have a small thermos with me.", she crossed the room to a small table by the window and took it from the cabinet. " I used to keep this for emergencies."
        Yusuke gave a huge sigh and sank back into the covers. " You’re a life saver, Midori!"
        Midori smiled shyly, preparing a small cup and a couple of tablets. She went beside Yusuke’s bed and gave him his medication.
        Yusuke took the cup graciously, drinking all the contents up to the last drop. His eyes gazed deeply on her and smiled. " Thank you."

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Kuwabara turned his head to the door. For a while, he thought he heard somebody calling his name. Calling for help. But it was gone in an instant. Still, he had to check it out. Just in case.
        He was about to step out of the parlor, the nth room he visited looking for Yukina, when . . .
        Suddenly the door slammed shut. Then a loud click was heard. " What the --?"
        He quickly walked to the entrance and turned the knob. " Shit!" The knob wouldn’t budge. He gave a hard tap and shove but the door still wouldn’t open.
        He pounded on the door. " Okay, okay. That’s enough you guys! You got me! He, he, he." He pressed his ears to the door, expecting to hear some scruffy noise or suppressed giggles. But he heard none. A frown creased his face. " Hey! This isn’t funny anymore!" He paused. Maybe that fucking koorime purposely locked him in there so that he could get to Yukina.
        A soft cool breeze ruffled his curly hair. His hands quickly rubbed his shoulders. He shifted his eyes to the small window. It was closed, locks in place.
        Now where the hell did that come from?
        Kuwabara let his eyes roamed around him. He shivered at the life sized statues of black hounds on one corner. A plush comfort chair was placed in the center while two rows of portraits graced the opposite wall.
        The top row consists of five old paintings. While the bottom row were all blank.
        Then he stopped. Yes, they were all blank --- except for the last one.
        From his viewpoint, he could clearly see a freshly painted portrait of a woman. Her hair’s long and light brown.
        He snickered inwardly. He could say he looked a bit like his sister.
        Ambling to a small chest drawer at the far end of the wall, he glanced at the paintings again.
         " They looked very old.", he murmured.
        Then his eyes reverted back to the single painting on the second row.
        Kuwabara sucked in his breath. His heartbeat going faster.
        Cautiously, he approached the painting
         " She really looks very much like Shizuru. It was a very good copy! Even the blouse she’s wearing today!", he whispered.
        Then he frowned, realizing it could be indeed his sister. Somebody had painted my sister’s portrait and there’s nothing wrong about it but . . .
        He shivered. He doesn’t like it when he had these types of vibrations.
         " . . . Kuwabara . . .", a voice called.
         " Whoa . . ?" Kuwabara stepped back. Was his eyes playing tricks on him? He swore he saw her lips move.
         " Get out of here. Quick!", the voice ordered.
         " Uh, s-sis?", Kuwabara gaped at the picture.
         " Get the others and leave this house!", she yelled. " Midori . . Beware of Midori!"
        His eyes bulged at his sister’s portrait. " Midori? Sis, are you telling me s-she p-put you in t-there. H-how? W-when?"
         " There’s no more time! I was sucked in here when I touched the canvass. So whatever you do, don’t lay your fingers on any of the blank frames!"
         " W-what?! I-I d-don’t understand . . . I’m going to get you out of there!"
         " No! Just go! You can’t help me!"
         " B-but . . .", her brother protested.
         " Go now or I’ll kick your shin and smash your ugly face!"
         " Okay.", he finally resigned. " but I’ll be back!"
        Reluctantly, he headed for the door. He started kicking and cursing at it.
        He stopped as a low growl sounded from behind him. He slowly turned his head.
        His eyes fixed on one of the statues. " Aurghh, creepy!" he quickly turned away and focused his attention on how to get out.
        A growl sounded once more.
        He looked over his shoulder. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw something moved.
        Kuwabara turned around. At first everything was still and then he saw it.
        One of the statue has been moved from the far corner to the center of the room.
        He swallowed hard. As a psychic, he had accepted the existence of ghosts but still he hated it when they play tricks on him.
        Another growl was heard, louder this time.
        Kuwabara refocused his eyes on the statue, gazing deeply into the hound’s eyes.
        Suddenly, its eyes glowed bright green.
        He stepped back as the statue started to move like a live hound.
         " Uh, oh.", he muttered under his breath. " This isn’t going to be pretty."
        The hound started to advance towards him. Its mouth opened, revealing a set of sharp canine teeth.
        Kuwabara tried some coaxing. " Easy, doggy!"
        But it didn’t work.
        Kuwabara braced himself from its attack.
        Without warning, the hound jumped above the air and lunge straight at him.
         " Rei-Ken!", he yelled, intending to pierce its body with his sword.
        The hound landed on top of him, sinking his canine teeth on his shoulder.
        Kuwabara blinked. What happened to his rei-ken?
         " Rei-Ken!", he shouted once more, summoning his power. Still nothing happened.
        The hound’s saliva dropped on his face. It growled loudly.
         " No! Nooooooo!!!!!!!", he screamed, shielding his face with his arms as the it started to bit and clawed at him.
         " Kazumaaaaa!!!!", Shizuru screamed from the portrait, creating a hair-raising duet loud enough to shake the entire room . . . .
        . . . But faint enough to hear from the outside.
        Hiei descended the stairs and saw the entrance to the parlor. Might as well, check out that secret opening, he decided.
        He was about to turn the knob when he sensed something. Suddenly, the pearl necklace warmed against his chest.
        Yukina! He immediately thought.
        Without wasting any moments, he ran to the direction he believed his sister was.

        Yukina staggered back as a sea of worms flowed from the faucet. She fell on her bottom, frantically brushing her arms. She squirmed at both the sight and the feeling of their slimy and wriggling bodies on her skin. Upon doing so she accidentally hit the handle of the dishwasher.
        A clattering noise sounded almost instantly.
        She shifted her gaze on the dishwasher. What she saw made her scream.
        There inside the washer, like a bunch of fishes on a sardine can, were human bones. About five pairs of empty eyes sockets stared out at her blankly.
         " Noooo!", Yukina scrambled to her feet. This is creepy! No! This is more than just creepy, its horrible. She dashed to the kitchen door, determined to get out of this horrifying place as soon as possible.
        Her hands pushed the door open and cried out as she hit on something. She screamed once more as a pair of hands gripped her arms tightly.
         " Aaaahhh!!!"
         " Yukina! Yukina!", a dark-clad individual yelled.
        Yukina shook her head twice, trying to shake off the nightmare she has just witnessed. Her vision cleared and saw a familiar face. " Hiei!"
         " What happened? Who’s after you?"
        It was no use. Yukina couldn’t stop herself from trembling. She merely pointed her finger on the dishwasher and the sink.
         " What happened? Are you guys alright?"
        They both turned to the door to see a brown-haired girl peering at them worriedly.
         " Keiko!", for once Hiei felt happy to see any of his friends. At least he could take care of this without worrying about Yukina. " You take Yukina upstairs and find the rest. Hurry!"
         " B-but . . .", Yukina protested.
         " Go!", Hiei said firmly. " Keiko take her upstairs now!"
        Keiko grabbed a reluctant Yukina by the wrist and pulled her out of the kitchen.
        As soon as they were out of sight, Hiei quickly approached the dishwasher.
        He took a few steps back, upon seeing the skeletons and a puddle of worms on the sink. No wonder, her sister was so frightened!
         " Okay you coward why don’t you show yourself!", he shouted.
        There was a momentary silence. Then . .
         " You’re looking for me?", a small woman stepped from the shadows.
        Hiei frowned. " Who are you? What do you want?"
         " Trust me. You wouldn’t want to know.", she said, peering at him with green eyes through a thick pair of glasses.
        Hiei narrowed his eyes. She looks awfully familiar. He just couldn’t remember where she had seen her.
        Without a word, he raised his katana as he positioned himself for battle.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Kurama watched the rise and fall of her chest. She was sound asleep. He reached in to stroke her long blue hair. Right after she emerged from the bathroom ---- fully clothed with a pair of pink pajamas --- thank god, she began telling him about a guy with handsome blue eyes she said she met in the bathroom.
        If he didn’t know better, he might think it was all illusion. But her actions were all credible enough to justify his suspicions. That this is something far more serious than a flimsy daydream affair.
        One thing he noticed is that she’s been following every word he says. Either he had directly or indirectly suggested her to do something. He had involuntarily commented that she looked better with hair down and in an instant she pulled her ponytail loose. He had unconsciously told her to rest and here she was, sleeping like a new-born child. There’s no doubt she’ll kiss him once he told her to do so. But then he doesn’t want to take advantage of the situation. Even if its just to confirm his theory.
        Kurama glanced at her serene face. Why not? Its his chance. " Hmm. Maybe next time. Or maybe as soon as she woke up.", he smiled but it faded quickly, realizing that she’s been acting like a robot carefully programmed to follow anyone’s orders. If he’s the only one in control over her, then she won’t have to worry about anything. But what if that Seiji has control over her, too?
        His watchful green eyes searched the room. He had decided not to leave her alone until he had fully understood what happened before he came to the bathroom. If there’s anything – or anyone he’s been searching, it’s definitely that young man Botan’s been raving about. Even he hadn’t seen the guy, the deity’s detailed description has painted a clear picture on his mind.
        Kurama shut his eyes for a moment. He had been standing guard for almost three hours now. He opened his eyes and gazed at the dark figures of willow trees outside, dancing at the soft, cool breeze. His watch read 8:17 p.m. The night was so slow. And he felt tired already.
        A cold draft blew towards his direction. Kurama raised his eyes. Then he saw him. A tall dark-haired young man. A pair of deep blue eyes glistening with mystery.
        Kurama was on his feet in an instant. " What are you doing here? Who are you?"
         " I think you knew what I came for.", the guy said.
        Kurama frowned, knowing very well he’s after Botan. " Then I’m sorry to disappoint you. Guess you’ll have to leave empty-handed.", he said firmly.
         " She’s mine.", the young man’s calm blue eyes glowered at him. " And don’t think about using your powers. It’ll be useless. This house was built to suppress any alien supremacy."
         " She’s not yours. And I don’t care if I can’t use all my power. You’ll never take her from me!", Kurama said indignantly.
         " Seiji . . .", a soft sleepy voice echoed from the bed.
        Botan stood up, her weary face lightening up at the sight of the young man. She started to walk towards Seiji with glassy purple eyes. " Oh, Seiji! You came back!"
        Kurama grabbed her hands and gently pushed her behind him.
         " What are your trying to do, Kurama? That’s not the way to treat a lady.", Seiji sneered, staring at Botan intently. " ‘think we should set things clear. I’m the hero and you’re the villain."
        Kurama had a stony look on his face, ready to attack in case he tries anything.
         " Just like a princess being taken away by a rebel from her prince.", Seiji continued, smiling proudly at his self-appointed role. " My dear, Botan. Would you let this stranger take us apart?"
         " Stranger? We both know who’s the stranger here!", Kurama cried out.
        Suddenly, Botan escaped from his grip.
         " Botan, no! Come back here!", he called desperately.
        To his surprise, Botan stopped. She turned to Kurama, confusion and inward concentration written all over her face.
         " What are you doing? Come to me! Don’t listen to him!", Seiji yelled.
        Then it hit him. Maybe Seiji isn’t as powerful as he looked. Or as he professed. Which means he’s not capable of having full control over her. Since, of course, she’s not human to start with.
         " Botan, snap out of it!", Kurama called to her.
        The blue-haired girl stood still for a moment then as if she made a decision, she ran back to Kurama’s side and clutch his shirt.
         " You’re going to pay for this!", the blue-eyed young man roared as his aura shifted.
        Kurama stared at him with wide eyes. The air became suddenly damp and cold. The wind blew stronger by the second.
        Seiji gave a deafening howl, sending the entire room shaking! All hell broke loose as he used his witchcraft to the fullest.
        Without wasting any second, Kurama released a barrage of deadly plants in Seiji’s direction causing an explosion. But just when he thought Seiji was killed, Kurama suddenly felt something hit him in the abdomen then followed by another on his head. Kurama saw his eyes waver for a moment. Saw a hazy vision of his opponent all bloody and seemed to be dying as well.
        He saw a flash of light blue. He heard a scream.
        Then he fell unconscious.

        Yukina panted as they rounded a sharp corner towards a long hallway. Keiko was gripping her hand tight but she doesn’t care. Both of them wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. Both were scared and horrified at the sight of millions of creatures flowing through the kitchen.
         " What’s going on?", Yukina asked fearfully. She took a quick glance over her shoulder, hoping that her brother could get out of there as soon as possible. " Look, why don’t you go upstairs to Yusuke and call on the others. I’ll go back and help Hiei."
         " No!", Keiko vehemently protested.
         " But Hiei’ s in danger and we have to find out what’s going on in here!"
         " No!", Keiko said stubbornly. " You don’t have to go back to know what’s happening."
        Yukina looked at her.
         " You could ask me right away."
        The ice maiden gave her an inquisitive look. Her friend looked strange. She can’t place it but there’s something different about her. For a moment everything seemed like a big puzzle then suddenly Keiko’s features shifted. Stretched and changed. Suddenly her brown hair was gone. In place was a short light red hair framing a masculine face.
        Yukina stepped back as somebody who was once Keiko stared at her with gray eyes. She gasped. " W-who are y-you? W-where’s Keiko? What did you do to her?!"
         " Keiko? Was that her name?", he scratched his head. " Such a stubborn woman, isn’t she?"
        Panic crept up to her realizing she was with a total stranger in a deserted and darkest part of the house. She staggered a few steps back as he extended his hand.
         " Oh by the way, my name’s Miko. I know this is such a short notice but we’re running out of time so . . ."
         " What do you want?! Stay away from me!", she screamed.
         " We want your lives. We want your souls!", Miko cackled, reaching out to grasp Yukina’s wrist. " None of you will get out of this house alive!"
         " What are you talking about? Help! Help!", Yukina yelled at the top of her lungs. She knew this estate is so huge but she wished somebody could hear her. " Hiei! Kuwabara! Yusuke! Guys! Help me!!! Eeeehhhh!!!"
        Miko brought his hands on top of her head and mumbled an odd chant.
        A few seconds past and Yukina felt cold. What’s going on? She never felt so cold in her life! She grappled to pry his fingers away from hair but he held on.
        Just as she was about to collapse, a shadow swiftly went through Miko and tackled him to the ground. The shadow gave him a strong blow then pushed him against a dark wall.
        In an instant, Miko disappeared. Vanished through the thick concrete wall.
        Yukina squinted to see who was her savior. But all she had was a hazy vision of a dark silhouette. " W-who are you?"
        The shadow suddenly materialized. Revealing a young man with sandy hair and green eyes. " Yoshi." He replied.
         " Thank you, uh, Yoshi.", Yukina said gratefully. " Would you mind telling me what’s going on here?"
        The young man looked around grimly, his gray eyes searching the walls for something. Then he turned to Yukina and sighed. " That was Miko Sakume. A young man who lived during the early 1800’s."
        Yukina wrinkled her forehead, making sure she heard him right. " 1800’s? You mean . . ."
         " Yes. He’s already dead. A ghost. And he’s not alone. He has four other friends. Fujiro, Seiji, Isumi and Midori."
        Yukina stared at him with wide eyes. " M-midori? You said Midori?"
         " Yes. Midori Soseki. She has . . ."
         " . . . china doll hair and dark eyes?", Yukina finished for him.
         " I guess she’s the one who lured you into the mansion.", Yoshi sighed. " She’s the first one to take someone else’s life. That was 1824, during the war. One soldier wandered into the mansion and she was lucky enough to spot him before the others did."
         " Why do they have to do that?", she asked.
         " So that they could live again.", he replied. " You see, this house is not ordinary. It breathes. It pulsates. Very much alive than you could ever imagine. Even if you scream, nobody could hear you unless the other has a strong connection to you AND happens to be within a few meters away. You’re lucky that dark guy was at the door the minute you called for help. You must’ve been very important to you."
         " Yes he is.", Yukina said quietly. " Go on."
         " Miko and the others found out a formula to find out how to escape this prison. They were biology students at that time. They knew two ways. Either to take somebody’s life so that the dead person could take their place. Or to take over their bodies."
         " So Midori . . ."
        Yoshi nodded. " Midori was able to kill somebody twenty years after her death so she was able to get back to her body. But for the others . . Their bodies were gone now. Its been almost two hundred years. The only option they have is to take your bodies.", then he became worried. " By this time, the others maybe working their ways to your friends."
        Yukina’s head felt like spinning. She couldn’t understand how anybody could be so cruel. There must be a reason, she thought. " What happened to them anyway? How did they get to this mansion?"
        Yoshi lowered his gaze, an expression of disheartenment filled his face. " It was all my fault. I started it."
        Yukina looked surprised. " I don’t understand . . ."
         " I’m a ghost, too. Just like them.", he confessed. " I was the one who took their lives one by one."
         " What?! How could you do such a thing?", she demanded.
         " This is my story.", he began. " This house is my grandmother’s. She was very strange and very scary. She practiced the dark arts like the rest of the family. I hate them all. It didn’t take long and they were all sentenced to burn in the stake for doing such. They all died except me. That was mid-1500’s."
        Yoshi let his gaze roam around. " I thought I would be free and happy. But my grandmother left a terrible curse. She was very angry at me because I refused to practice the family tradition." His face turned grim. " The day before I was supposed to leave this house for good, everything in the house came to life. The statues, the walls, everything. They came after me and killed me."
         " For hundreds of years, I wandered in this house. And one day . . .", he paused to wipe his forehead. " In her room, I found a spell which would take the lives of people and be imprisoned with me in this house forever. I couldn’t resist it. I was so lonely. I need friends. "
        The picture seemed to cleared before her. " And so you found them?"
         " Yes, they were doing a biology project one rainy afternoon. Then that’s were it all began.", he said. " I thought they were going to be my friends. But no. They were angry and furious. Years past and they started to turn against me. I don’t know but the spirit of this house seemed to favor them."
         " Probably because they become more evil than you were.", Yukina remarked.
         " I know. If only I didn’t . . .", Yoshi pressed his hands on his face. Furious at himself. Regretting every day of his existence on the estate. He lifted his face and stared at Yukina. " Your friends are in danger. This kids are ruthless and mean."
        Yukina studied his face carefully. Every word seemed to bore through her heart. His story may hold truth but how could she be certain of his sincerity?
        For the past few hours, his supposed victims had painted their short stop with extreme horror.
        For a lost soul demanding an existence of true companionship and happiness, solutions which seemed to ignore their consequences to the living where taken as the only option. On one side, Yoshi could well be considered a victim of fate and injustice. On the other, he’s no less than any selfish being, driven by his own desire to fulfill his need for an eternal companion in expense of the other.
        Yukina closed her eyes for a moment. She had no other choice but to trust him. Her friends are all in danger. " Will you help me?"
         " Ah.", Yoshi was taken aback. He didn’t expect her to trust him in such a short notice. Though it seems favorable to the situation, he hated to disappoint her if his plan failed.
        She stared at him pleadingly, patiently awaiting his reply. He doesn’t deserve this, he knew. But the only way to at least put a stop to this is to destroy the monsters he had created. Monsters out to create more monsters. Cold and ruthless beings made out of people capable of trust and friendship. It has to end now or more people would fear to exercise those qualities. And he certainly couldn’t let that happen.
        Yoshi nodded. " You didn’t have to ask me that. I’m going to help you anyway."
        " Thanks.", Yukina breathed. " thank you so much."
         " Don’t thank me yet. We have a load of things to work on. And I’m warning you it isn’t going to be easy."
         " I’m ready."

-----------------------------------------------------------

        The small girl hurtled a couple of shirukens towards Hiei.
        He swiftly dodged them. " That’s all you could do?", he mocked.
        His opponent frowned. " You may be strong. But me and my friends are much stronger. You couldn’t beat the old dark power!"
        Instantly, she threw a bunch of poisonous daggers.
        As usual, Hiei carefully ran from side to side, avoiding them. " Old power? Who are you?"
         " Isumi Hadayeshi.", she replied proudly. " Thanks to you. My friends and I shall walk out of this house alive!"
         " Hn!", Hiei uttered, still confused on what was her purpose and where did she came from. But nevertheless, he’ll beat her. Slowly, he inched towards her, stepping on the worms, on the bones . . . .
        " No!", she cried out in panic.
        Hiei’s lips curved in a devilish grin. Now he knew. Those skeletons in the washer. Those were her and her friends.
        She had been preoccupied, unconsciously giving out signals about her dependence to her friends.
         " Yes.", he murmured. He recognized her well. She’s one of those people in the portrait within the parlor.
        He raised his right hand and willed the dark forces to converge in his palm. He doesn’t have enough energy to summon the black dragon but he’ll give his last remaining energy to beat her. It won’t necessarily guarantee his life. But he knew it’ll be well worth it. Any threat to his sister should be totally eliminated. He would just have to trust the rest to carry on.
        Isumi’s green eyes bulged wide at the sight of his fireball. She shook her fright and try to focus on her opponent. But the scorching flames lapping greedily at her cadaver was more than enough to open up a raging fury she was capable of even from the time when she was alive.
        He will pay! He might kill me but he will pay! She cursed silently.
        Isumi balled her fist, slowly backing up at the wall, awaiting Hiei’s flames to reach her.
        Hiei narrowed his eyes. She’s cooking up something, he realized.
        Without wasting any moments, he released his flames to her.
        Isumi screamed as the flames burned through her soul. She gave one last howl then vanished into thin air.
        Hiei collapsed to the ground, every inch of his body now yearning for even a flicker of energy. But he had given it all.
        He slouched against the kitchen door and let his eyes droop. A few minutes of rest and he’ll be fine.
        The whole place was now in silence. He was glad that he was alive. As soon as he regained enough strength to stand up, he’ll go find his sister and the others to check if their alright.
        He could feel his pulse getting steadier now. A soft, even thump-thump against his chest. Then a faint sound. Like a mushy icky squishing sound broke the soothing rhythm.
        Hiei forced his lids to open. What was that?
        He let his eyes roamed around him. The sound’s coming from everywhere. And its becoming more and more louder by the second.
        Suddenly he felt a soft wriggling creature tickling his shoulder. He quickly reached for it and saw a fat worm.
         " How disgusting!", he flung it right across the room.
        Then something warm touched his toes. There was another. He wriggled his toes, sending it a few feet from him.
         " Gross!", he tried to sit up and get out of the place but his efforts were futile, he was very much drained. He tried to keep his eyes open but he knew he will give in any minute now.
        Suddenly, his gaze fixed on something on the floor.
        His eyes widen.
        One single worm approached him. Wriggling. Slithering. Slowly making its way towards him. Then it was followed by another. And another. From the sink. From the cabinets. From the washer. Everywhere they came. In clumps. In masses. All having one single destination. All having one goal. To avenge the death of their master.
        Hiei wanted to cried out but he doesn’t have the energy to do so. Finally giving in, he slumped against the corner.

         " Huh!", Yukina stopped in her tracks. She could feel a strong vibration within her. And with the way her heart beat like crazy, she knew it won’t be a good news.
        She surveyed the hallway where they came from. " Hiei . .", she whispered. " my brother . . ."
        Yoshi tugged at her wrist. Not knowing what to say. He could clearly see her anguish as hot tears poured down her unusual red eyes.
        He wrapped his hands around her and urged her to move forward. " Yukina . . . we have to go on. If we go back, one of them might get to us and we would never have a chance to warn the others."
        Yukina felt her knees weakening. She doesn’t know if she’ll be able to go on. Her brother means the world to her. There’s no sense living without him.
         " Yukina, he had saved your life. If you give up now then his death would be in vain.", Yoshi looked at her with pity. He knew how it felt to lose a close relative. " If he’s alive he would want you to go on and fight ‘till the end. I never met him but I felt he’s that kind of person."
        Yukina wiped her tears with the back of her hand. He’s right. She sniffed loudly and forced herself to smile. " Let’s go. We have to warn the others."
        With a heavy heart, they both made their way to the staircase. Passing by a short hallway lined with full length mirrors. They turned on the corner and rushed to the staircase.
         " Where do you think you’re going?", a voice boomed.
        They raised their eyes to see who’s the speaker. There on top of the stairs was Miko.
        Yukina took a step down while Yoshi stared at him.
         " Oh, aren’t you happy I’m back?", Miko twisted his face in a mock pout.
         " Leave her alone, Miko. She and her friends doesn’t deserve this."
         " Oh really? And what about us? Did we deserve to die two hundred years ago? Whoa!" He jumped onto the handle bars and slid down like a madman. " Maybe you should listen to yourself, pighead! You killed us remember?"
         " I’ll get you some people if you really want to live."
         " Oh geez.", Miko scratched his head, pretending to be confused. " You see you’re not in charge here. We get to chose the victims. Not you! Got that?"
        Yoshi suddenly couldn’t take it no longer. With a surge of anger, he pushed the wiry redhead down the stairs. Together they fell to the bottom.

        " Yoshi!"
         " Yukina, quick! Go find your friends. Don’t worry about me!"
        Miko gritted his teeth. " You . . ." he brought down his fist hard on Yoshi’s nose. The latter, for a moment lost his bearings. He closed his eyes for a few seconds.
        Then he heard a scream. He opened his eyes and saw Miko pinning Yukina against the glass-paneled wall.
        The wall seemed to seep her in. Eating her. Taking her in. She pounded on the glass, screaming at the top of her lungs. " Miko help me! Help!"
        Making the most of his remaining energy, Yoshi jumped to his feet and pounced on Miko, knocking him to the ground. He recited a short incantation and within seconds, there was a chilling breeze out of nowhere as a gaping hole suddenly materialized on the wall.
        With one last cry, Yoshi dove to the opening, gripping Miko tightly in his arms. He would bring him. To emptiness.
         " Yoshi! Nooooooo!!!", Yukina screamed. Then she realized she had to get out of her own predicament. She couldn’t move her legs. They felt cold and stiff. She struggled to get out but the force is too strong. Too strong.
         " Yukina."
        She raised her eyes and was surprised to see Yoshi standing right on the stairs. She broke into a huge smile. " Yoshi! Oh, I’m so glad! Quick help me out!"
         " I’m sorry, Yukina."
         " What?!"
         "You’re a nice lady. You could make a good company."
         " No . . .", she whispered. " Yoshi . . ."
         " I helped you from Miko because I don’t want you to die. I want you here."
        Yukina felt herself tremble. She’s trapped.
        Yoshi looked pleased as the mirror continued to take her in. But his smile quickly faded as a strong pair of rotting arms emerged from a small black hole and grabbed him.
        He tried to free himself from its grasp but the arms held on as it pulled him into the hole. Yoshi yelled as he was completely brought into nothingness.
        Yukina knew it was Miko.
        She closed her eyes as a wave of transparent haze swirled around her, bringing her deep into the mirror. Like a pair of strong arms pulling her inside until she could no longer feel solid. Until she could no longer touch anything.
        She screamed but no one heard her. Her mouth was opened in silent horror. Opened in a silent scream no one would ever hear anymore.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Kurama forced his heavy lids to open. He clutched his bleeding wound across his belly as blood pooled around him.
        For some reason, he found it difficult to breathe. The stench of death hung heavily in the air. The stench of old age power.
        Where is everybody? Where’s . . .
        Botan! Where is she? He thought in panic.
        A soft howl like the sound of whispering trees echoed from outside.
        Kurama gazed out at the thick clump of trees and shrubs through the window. " She couldn’t be outside. Could she?", he murmured. There’s only one way to find out. Painfully, he got up on his feet. He tittered slightly, his head felt heavy as lead but he gripped the bedpost to keep himself steady.
        Slightly limping, he made his way out of the room. He walked through the long and dark hallway to the grand staircase. " Augh!", he bit his lip as he slowly brought his feet down the steps.
        He could’ve just yelled her name but something tells him she won’t find her in here. A strong sense of pushed him to look someplace else. Like the woods.
        Kurama took a moment to catch his breath after he made the first flight of steps. An altar decorated with ornate chandeliers and plastic flowers stood in the center. A large mirror caught his eye.
        He shivered. The smoky surface of the mirror looked old and spooky. He shook his head and went down the last series of steps. As soon as he set foot on the first floor, he quicken his pace.
        Kurama turned left to another long hallway. Passing by the kitchen, he heard a low slithering sound but he ignored it. He trudged his way through the porch and out into a small portion of the forest within the mansion walls.
        The woods was very dark and eerie with low-hanging branches and thick shrubs clumped everywhere.
         " Aahh.", his wound ached so much. Kurama gripped the long wound on his belly. It was bleeding nonstop. He need to rest for a few seconds, he thought, spotting a large oak tree down his left. He cautiously approached it, carefully leaning his tired body on its trunk.
        Suddenly a soft moan sounded.
        Instantly, he straightened up. " Botan?", he called.
        Silence.
        Must be the wind, he thought. But he had to make sure. " Botan where are you? Answer me."
        No reply.
        A strong gust of wind shifted the treetops.
        Then he heard it. A soft creaking noise. He listened for a few seconds, trying to figure out what was making the sound.
        Then he suddenly noticed the black shadow swinging back and forth across the dirt.
        Confused, he stared down at the slowly moving shadow for a while, following it with his eyes narrowed.
        Creak. Creak.
        The odd sound repeated in rhythm with the shadow.
        Then he raised his eyes and saw what was casting the shadow –- and started to scream.
        Botan’s body swung heavily above his head.
        Gaping up in horror, Kurama saw a heavy rope tied around her neck and suspended from a thick branch.
        He saw her arms dangling lifelessly.
        Creak. Creak.
        " Botan! Noooooo!", Kurama cried out, dropping to his knees.
        He shut his eyes and shook his head, as if trying to shake the whole scene away.
        But even with her eyes closed, Kurama saw Botan’s body swinging from the rope like a heavy, ripe fruit.
        Seiji’s dead. But he won. He succeeded. He killed her. Killed his deity. His beloved deity.
        Creak. Creak.
        That sound. Her lifeless body. Her empty bulging eyes. Her pale, pale face.
        Creak. Creak.
        Kurama gripped his ears to shut it off. But he knew that sound would live on. Haunting him forever.

        His dark eyes glinted in the pale moonlight. Fujiro. A name so delicious she wanted to say it over and over.
        Keiko gazed at him admiringly.
         " Do you have someone, Keiko?", he asked, reaching for his cup of tea. " B-boyfriend, I-I mean . ."
        Keiko straightened up in her chair. " Um . ."
         " I hope you don’t mind me asking . . .", Fujiro apologized
        She smiled. " No. I don’t have one." I wish you could be, she silently added.
        Fujiro seemed pleased at her reply. He shifted his gaze at the backyard and caught reflections of the pool. An idea suddenly materialized in his mind. He took Keiko’s hand and asked. " Would you like to come with me to the pool?"
        Keiko’s face broke into a smile. " Sure." She’ll go with him wherever he wishes to go. A sense of excitement bubbled up inside her. It was a puzzle to her but then she doesn’t care. A handsome young man like Fujiro is all she needs.
        The fool moon was up high casting a pale light on the still waters of the swimming pool in the backyard of the mansion.
        Fujiro sat on the edge and let his feet dangled lazily against the chilling water. His feet swished from side to side, causing small waves rippling through the pool. He gazed up at Keiko and carefully guided her down next to him.
        Keiko felt the water lapping at her bare feet and it felt good. Cool. Tingling and teasing the soles of her feet. She giggled.
        Fujiro inched closer to her, bringing his lips against her earlobe. " Glad, you’re enjoying this."
        Keiko flushed at his low, husky voice. Everything in him seemed perfect. Tall and dark features, sexy voice and such sweet , sweet ways. He really knows how to take care of women. Unlike somebody she knew . . . What’s his name again?
        She shook her head, trying to jog her memory. Hazy pictures seemed to fill in her head.
        A frown instantly pasted Fujiro’s face upon seeing her confusion. Slowly, he let his hand slipped around her waist, bringing her closer to him.
         " Fujiro . . .", Keiko inhaled sharply, her heart thumped loudly.
        Fujiro placed his lips against hers. Gentle and teasing at first. Then he became more demanding.
        Keiko couldn’t resist him, giving in to his kiss. Involuntarily, she brought her hands around his neck. She felt herself being laid down then being lifted from the ground.
        She heard a loud splash. Keiko opened her eyes as cold water swirled around her, drenching her blouse and skirt.
         " What the . .?!" the cold water seemed to have burst her bubble. She stared around her for a moment, still confused as to why was she on the pool. Her eyes shifted ahead, seeing Fujiro on the edge, grinning at her. Keiko giggled. " You . . !"
         " Was it cold?"
        Keiko felt herself sinking. She tried to touch the bottom but her toes couldn’t reach it. How deep is this pool anyway, she thought. " Uh, Fujiro . . .", she called to him in panic. " I-I can’t swim!"
        His dark eyes stared at her, unmoving.
        Keiko thrashed wildly, her breath came in short gasps. " Fujiro! This is not funny!"
        She raised her eyes to him.
        But she wished she hadn’t. Keiko felt a cold chill run down her back as she saw him get on his feet, dusted his trousers and just stood there in the edge.
        Watching her. Watching her drown. As if he didn’t care.
        As if . . . he pushed her on purpose.
        " Midori has helped me a lot.", he said.
         " What?!"
         " She was very hesitant and afraid at first but I knew she’ll do anything for me. Even if that means destroying your lives to revive ours.", Fujiro continued.
        Midori? She looked at him carefully. Could he be? " You . . .?!" Her voice cracked at the sudden revelation. He was that guy, Midori told them about!
        Keiko felt betrayed. Still she pleaded. " Fujiro . . . Help! Ahh!", she struggled to keep her chin up. The cold water seemed to drag her beneath. Dragged her down. Down.
        Her chest felt like it’s about to burst, she struggled to breathe.
        Yusuke? A flood of memories rushed through her. The glass of water . . . his medication . . . she promised to be back . . . Yusuke . . . I’m sorry. So sorry.
        With that, her body became light. Water pumped into her lungs. Filling it. Then she hit the bottom. But she doesn’t care.
        She felt no more pain.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        Yusuke dashed out of the room, his feet pounding on the wooden floor. " Oh please. Please let it be not too late.", he silently prayed.
        He groped for the handle and descended down the stairs in a flash. At the last step, he tripped. "Ow!"
        He massaged his bottom and at the same time, looking at a red ribbon pinned between his toe fingers. He snatched it angrily.
        It was Yukina’s ribbon.
        He scrambled on his feet as he rushed out into the yard where the pool is. He felt dizzy. He felt the floor tilted up to meet him.
        Yusuke gripped his hair, firmly pulling it. As if to stop his dizziness. The mansion appeared like a huge maze. The number of winding corners and intersections flew across his sight. They were mere obstructions for him at this moment but for some reason, the estate proved to be awfully strange and intimidating. As if mocking him. Something’s up, he thought. He could feel it.
         " Keiko!", he yelled. Her scream was heard even at his room on the second floor. He heard her scream in panic then a loud splash of water. He immediately thought she’s in the pool.
        He didn’t know how in the world did she ended up in the pool. But it’s the least of his concerns. Right now, he had to make sure she’s alright or else . .
        Yusuke gritted his teeth. Or else what? She can’t blame her if she was so mesmerized by this huge estate and ended up getting herself into such trouble. Could he blame himself? How ‘bout his friends?
        He quicken his pace. But his vision seemed to waver before him.
        Where the hell are they? Surely they heard Keiko. But he hadn’t ran into any of them when he was going down. Where could they be? He hoped they were already in the pool, tending to his girlfriend.
        With a surge of new hope, Yusuke made his way through the narrow path into the backyard. " I have to hurry, she’s waiting for me.", he said to himself.
        He reached the clearing and saw a portion of the still blue waters of the pool. He relaxed a little. She’s safe.
        Yusuke rounded the path until the pool was in full view. He wrinkled his brow. There was no one. The yard was deserted.
        He shifted his gaze at the pool. " What’s that?", he asked himself, seeing a large form submerged in it.
        Pulse raising, he cautiously approached it. Yusuke stood on the edge, his brown eyes staring at the now recognizable form.
         " K-keiko?!", He felt his knees weakening but he jumped on the chilling waters, quickly reaching for her.
        He cupped her chin, pulling her up. He was about to hoist her body on the edge when suddenly, he saw spots on his vision. He shook his head. " Keiko!" She could still be alive! He reached for her waist and tried to pull her up once more. But she’s too heavy and he’s too weak.
        Then he felt dizzy. He tried to splash some water on his face. But the effort only wore him out. Where is that power when he needed it most?
        I, Yusuke Urameshi, champion of the Ankoku Bujutsukai and son of the most powerful in Makai. He couldn’t just die like this.
        Not like this. Not without fighting.
        But he’s too weak. He couldn’t see anything.
        Then out of nowhere he heard a sound. He mustered all his strength to hear it.
        There. A sound. A sound which resembles a laughter. A loud girlish laughter.
         " Such a nice way to die Yusuke, isn’t it?", a familiar soft voice said. But it wasn’t the same shy voice. Now it sounded harsh and cold.
        Midori! He realized.
         " Ah, but you’re still lucky! Me and my friends where pinned to death in the washer. You’re lucky you won’t feel even half the pain we went through."
        Died? What the hell is she talking about?
         " You trusted me so much. Let’s say, I gave you extra medicine."
        Yusuke felt a huge lump forming on his throat. She poisoned me!
         " I know it’s too late to say this now but I’m really sorry. You and your friends were really kind but I love him so much and I couldn’t just stand there and do nothing. I wanted him to live. I wanted him to be happy. I’m sorry."

        My friends! T-They’re dead, too? Yusuke thought mournfully.
         " What’s going on?", he murmured, feeling himself starting to slip into unconsciousness.
        Keiko! If I must die, let me be next to her, he silently pleaded to no one in particular.
        Then as if somebody heard him, he felt her form touched his arm. With all his remaining strength, he brought his arms around her.
        Yusuke stiffened. His lids drifting shut.
        Then he couldn’t hold it no longer.
        In the stillness of the night. Within the cursed walls of the estate. Immersed in the cold waters of the pool.
        He gave out his last breath.

-----------------------------------------------------------

        The cool morning breeze wafted through her black hair, displacing her stiff china hairdo. She raised her dark eyes to the first rays of sunlight. The first sunlight she witnessed after all those years.
         " Midori."
        Midori jumped as a strong hand squeezed her shoulder. She turned around to see him. " Oh, it’s you."
        She quickly looked behind him, expecting to see the others. " They’re not coming out, are they?"
         " They’re gone.", Fujiro replied bluntly. " Our visitors defeated them."
         " Are you sure?", Midori asked. Still unbelieving that her friends for hundreds of years she could no longer see and speak with. " Seiji, Miko a-and . . Isumi? A-are th ---. "
         " Yes, all three of them. And that insipid Yoshi, too", he cut her off. " They deserved it. They’re so weak and stupid!"
        Midori heaved a sigh. " But they’re our friends. I wish they’ve exercised extra precaution."
         " I know but they’re gone now. We should get on with our lives."
         " I understand.", she said, linking her arms to his. " What happens now, Fujiro?"
         " Fujiro? Fujiro’s dead Midori. From now on you should call me . . .", he straightened his shirt and brushed his hair with his hand. " Yusuke. Yusuke Urameshi."
        Midori smiled at him. " Yes, Yusuke. We have to get going now or we’ll be late for our class."
         " Class what class? Should I worry about that?", he cocked his head at her, his now brown eyes twinkling with delight. Then he burst out laughing. Midori joined in, her own dark eyes danced with glee.
        They’ve waited two hundred years. Its so good to be alive.

        EPILOGUE

        The cold late afternoon cast a wash of dark red and orangey horizon at the still body of an old-fashioned swimming pool. A tall vine-covered wall kept a huge piece of abandoned land from the lush forest. An estate isolated from the bustling and ultra modern city.
        A series of strokes rippled the serene waters of the pool as a short pinkish tongue dipped in, lapping at the yellowish liquid.
        Suddenly, a noise which sounded like a soft clatter, echoed through the pool.
        A pair of yellow-green eyes looked up and let its gaze land on something floating a few feet from where it stood. It yawned heavily at the sight of two skulls partly immersed in the murky pool.
        Whether out of contentment or perhaps out of repugnance, the cat hurriedly left. It rounded a short path then climbing the overgrown trellis, it hoisted itself atop the terraces.
        It jumped through the broken window then onto the bed, accidentally stepping on a tattered piece of an old deep pink uniform tainted with red liquid. It was hanging loosely on a rotting corpse. Another one lay firmly on its lap. Strands of light blue hair still clung on its moist skull, its pink pajamas was torn.
        The cat gave a short sound, then scurried out of the room and down the wide staircase. It stopped in the middle as a shard of glass crashed down from a large smoky mirror.
         " Yeoww!!!" The cat quickly jumped as a drop of dark red liquid plopped down on its silky white coat.
        It raced down the rest of the stairs then stopped to pick out something soft and red with its teeth.
        A cool breeze blew as it turned left into the kitchen.
        A small corpse was pinned on the corner, a single fat worm wriggled out of its eye socket.
        From there, it rushed to the parlor and yawned at the life-size statues of the hounds.
        One statue had a piece of large bones stuck on its mouth. Seeing its canine teeth caked with dried red liquid, the cat moved back, baring its teeth, its paws poised, ready to scratch.
        A few minutes lapsed. Then as if changing its mind, the cat hurriedly ran in the opposite direction, passing by the staircase once more and straight into the right wing then out into the front yard.
        It yawned lazily, sniffing the air upon seeing a human standing on its way.

        A pair of golden eyes looked down at the cat. For a while it held his gaze. Then in a flash, it dropped something on his feet and dashed out of the estate.
        The young adult picked it. Fingering the satin red ribbon, he bit his lip. He knew this ornament. An accent which once bound the soft light green hair of a short lovely ice maiden.
        He checked his watch. It read 6:48 08/03/2047. He only have twelve minutes to spare.
        Its been forty eight years since he sent the Reikai Tantei to a mission. Yusuke, looking very glum and downhearted, reported the tragedy. The rest along with the girls, he learned, perished in that last assignment. He resigned right then and there.
        The young man raised his hand to tightened a white bandanna on his forehead. A bandanna to conceal a mark. JR it is.
        He was quite surprised at Yusuke’s quick recovery. In a matter of a few months, he was already back in school, hitting off with a new girl. He didn’t bother to contact him from then on.
        To find their bodies was his mission in coming to Ningenkai. His now aging father had declined vehemently against this trip. But he need to find them himself in order to gain peace of mind. He knew he won’t rest until he found them.
        Yusuke merely pointed at the woods. But heck! The woods is so big. He couldn’t be so sure if he’ll find them in this old mansion but a strong urge aroused his curiosity.
        Quite unsure what to expect, he stepped into the front porch and pushed open the heavy oak door.
        He coughed as thick dust surrounded him. He rubbed his eyes and focused his gaze at the life-size statues of large dogs. Or hounds, was it? He shivered. How creepy!
         " Welcome to the party, Koenma."
        He jumped as a soft female voice spoke.
         " Huh?!" His breath was caught on his throat as Keiko’s bloated face loomed before him.
         " Glad you made it!", another form came into view. Shizuru!
        Koenma’s face paled.
         " What’s the matter? Don’t you remember? Its Yusuke’s birthday today.", she reminded.
        The prince of Reikai gaped at her.
        Yusuke’s birthday? B-but Yusuke’s in the city. A seventy-one year old married man to a girl named Midori.
         " Aren’t you going to greet him?", suddenly, Botan was next to him. Her long blue hair was disheveled. A bluish black slit on her neck.
         " What? B-but . . .", he protested.
        Botan grabbed his left arm. His skin crawled at her cold touch. Such cold, cold touch.
        Yusuke suddenly appeared behind him. " It won’t be the same without you."
        Koenma’s eyes widen at the sight of the spirit detective. " What the . . .?!"
         " We need company, more company.", Yukina voiced out from the staircase beside a large mirror.
        Kuwabara cocked his head slowly, asking no one in particular. " What was that saying?"
         " The more . . .", Hiei started, peering behind his sister’s shoulder.
         " . . . the merrier.", Kurama finished.

# The End #