The Dark TournamentTeam Profile - Team Rokuyokai "Listen to them all! They're so excited! Do you think they'll cheer for me?" --Rinku Team Rokuyokai comprises low-class demons (in social standing, not power) who seek to make a name for themselves by winning the Dark Tournament. Their team sponsor is apparently businessman Gondawara, a member of the Black Black Club. The team is led by the fire demon Zeru, and features the youthful but deadly Rinku, the cunning Roto, and their secret weapon, Chu, the master of a powerful form of martial arts that relies on drunkenness. Team Urameshi vs. Team Rokuyokai [Urameshi - 3 wins | Rokuyokai - 1 win] The first match of the Dark Tournament is between the youthful Rinku and Kuwabara. Rinku takes an early lead, with his speed and agility seeming too much for Kuwabara. Kuwabara manages to pick up on Rinku's spirit energy trail and deliver a solid blow, but Rinku reveals that the energy trail was only a ruse before countering with a devastating assault that leaves Kuwabara for dead. Kuwabara quickly revives and the two step up their efforts; Kuwabara manifests his Spirit Sword and Rinku using his Serpent Yo-Yos -- a set of 8 yoyos that he empowers with his demon energy. Rinku dominates the remainder of the match, but Kuwabara's fine control of the Spirit Sword enables him to deal a severe blow at the same time that Rinku strikes him. Both opponents fall out of the ring. Rinku manages to climb in before Kuwabara does, and wins the match after using his yo-yo strings to trap Kuwabara outside of the ring for ten counts. [Kuwabara vs. Rinku] WINNER: Rinku (ROKUYOKAI) [as Team Rokuyokai enters the ring] Gondawara: What's your opinion of them, Sakyo? They've managed to raise a great deal of support among the lower-class apparitions. I, of course, won't be cheering for them. I detest anyone that those bottom-feeders like as a matter of principle! On the other hand, if anyone hopes to beat your team, they will need fan support. Someone like this Urameshi group won't stand a chance! [A scalper tries to get Koenma to buy a ticket] Scalper: Hey, you there! You look like a handsome young man. Why don't you treat yourself to standing room on the highest deck. You can see everything there is without turning your head! Koenma: I have a VIP ticket. Scalper: Hey, that 'junior'. You must be Koenma! Oh, I didn't know we was entertaining royalty!

Koenma: I am the owner of the Urameshi team. Scalper: Yes, of course. Koenma: Yes, the guest team is always given to me. A ploy to keep me from cancelling the tournament, no doubt. Scalper: Not a doubt in my mind, sir. Koenma: And the last thing I am is a naive child. I realize this tournament lowers the spirit crime rate in the living world, keeps the demons occupied. Scalper: We are all fortunate to have such a wise ruler! I'm sure you also understand, the only authority that's recognized here is brute force. George (warningly): Watch yourself. Scalper: Just a warning, your royal majesty. Of course, I respect you completely. But hard as I try, I can't keep the masses from disagreeing. Koenma (coldly): How sad for you. Rinku: I'll go first! Kuwabara: That little brat is definitely mine! [while Rinku leaps around] Kuwabara: What is this, recess? Botan: Oh dear, Rinku is fast and incredibly acrobatic! Shizuru: My brother's just standing there! Keiko: It's awful! [after Kuwabara catches Rinku and knocks him down] Kuwabara: You're beaten. I can sense your spirit now! [Kuwabara appears to be beaten] Gondawara: Cheers to the end of another great match. I can always spot the winners, Sakyo! Koenma: What's he thinking? Get up! George: I'm sure he's trying! Rinku: How was that, Zeru? I thought it'd be more fun if I let him think he was winning for a while. The fans liked it too! Hiei (smugly): Should have known. Kuwabara only seemed better because the boy was leaving a trail. Koto (counting): Six! Seven! Rinku: So what's the point in counting? I broke the dummy's neck! Say, why don't you count his last heartbeats? [the crowd cheers] Koto: Eight! [Kuwabara struggles to his feet] Kuwabara: Actually... my neck is just fine! Rinku (coldly): Say, guess we'll have to fix that, won't we? Kuwabara: No more kiddy games! You better start fighting me honest. Kuwabara: Honestly, I didn't think you'd come back so quick. But even with

my guard down and you at your best, you still couldn't beat me. Why don't you run home, let someone else fight? Rinku: Here's a better idea. Since I couldn't beat you playing... [Rinku takes out eight small yoyos] ...I'll start using my real weapon! Wanna try? (chanting) The Serpent Yo-Yo Attack! [Rinku's yo-yos strike Kuwabara] Kurama: Yes, of course! The strings... they're alive! Koto: Please tell me I'm not the only one who saw that, people! Somehow, the yo-yos snake themselves around to avoid Kuwabara's sword! Rinku: Yeah, of course they did! You don't think I'd just throw ordinary toys around, do you? Kuwabara: Darn it! Rinku: When I throw the yo-yos, my spirit power goes into them, kind of like they're a part of me. And they bite, too! You trying to cut them down with that sword is like... grabbing snakes barehanded! Zeru: Rinku's powers are at their nastiest when he channels them through a weapon. With the Serpent Yo-Yos, he's more or less unbeatable. [after Kuwabara uses his Spirit Sword to save himself from Rinku's attack] Rinku: So the sword absorbs your fall, like a backwards bungee cord, huh? That's a pretty neato idea from a blockhead. There's one little problem, though; you flying straight at me just makes it easier for all my yo-yos to hit you at once. And you can't handle that! Kuwabara: My only chance for a hit! [Kuwabara manifests his Spirit Sword] Rinku: Not that dummy sword again! I dodged that easily! [Kuwabara's Spirit Sword shoots out and bends in a complex arc to hit Rinku] Rinku (stunned): Say what? His sword can bend now? Yusuke (in his sleep): Get up there, Kuwabara. I'm serious! I know you're used to losing, but not now! [Kuwabara gets up] Koto (counting): Six! Kuwabara (enraged): What did you say? Koto: Six, Kuwabara. You have four counts to get in the ring! Kuwabara: Not you, Urameshi! Outta my way! [Kuwabara runs over to a sleeping Yusuke and grabs him] Kuwabara: You wanna say that to my face? Come on! Oh, you're pretending to be asleep now? You scaredy cat! Koto: Seven! And an eight! Kuwabara: Hey! Hold your horses! I'm coming! Rinku (exhausted): Aw man, I can't take more of him right now. [Rinku uses his yo-yos to tie Kuwabara up, preventing him from climbing back into the ring] Koto: Nine counts! Kuwabara: Let go of me, you stupid yo-yo strings! That's cheating! Koto: Ten! [Kuwabara collapses]

Koto: And Rinku's the winner! The Rokuyokai Team gets a point! Roto (about Rinku): Heh, used so much power and didn't even get the kill. He forgets what makes this tournament 'dark'! Kurama (pleased): That was fairly innocent! It's rare to see both fighters still standing! Hiei: I assure you, it won't happen with me. Kurama fights Roto, the second member of Team Rokuyokai. This demon is fairly weak, and Kurama easily dominates the match. Before he can finish off Roto, Roto reveals his death switch, which -- if pressed -- will order his demon brother to kill Kurama's mother. This forces Kurama to remain immobile, allowing Roto to pummel him with impunity. Kurama turns things around by sowing the seed of the death plant deep into Roto's body; this paralyzes Roto, allowing Kurama to disarm him, and once the plant blooms Roto dies. [Kurama vs. Roto] WINNER: Kurama (URAMESHI) [before the match] Hiei: Kurama... considering the stakes, we can't afford to take any chances. Don't leave the ring with him still alive. Kurama: Naturally. Kuwabara: You know, that Rose Whip he's got must be ten feet long. Where does he stash it? All the ways I can think of sound kind of painful! Hiei: Kurama simply carries a normal rose. By manipulating it with his spirit energy, it's transformed into a whip. Even weeds can turn into a deadly weapon for Kurama. Roto: I know you've been spending years in the human world. We all do what we must. I can only hope you didn't, say, get attached to one of them... [while watching Kurama easily evade Roto] Hiei: He's clearly no match for Kurama; what a joke of a round. It's a pity you couldn't have taken him and let Kurama deal with the little child and his yoyos. Kuwabara: Hey, you watch it, Shrimpy! I just got cheated, is all! Gondawara (about Roto): He can't even hit the bastard! Sakyo (smugly): But Gondawara, I thought with the support of those dirty fans, a team could beat anyone... maybe even upset my Toguro! I hope you didn't wager too much of your money on that. [as Kurama prepares to finish Roto] Kurama: Your skills weren't enough for this tournament -- say your last words! Roto (quickly): I have your human mother, Kurama! Or should I say, Shuichi!

[Roto pulls out a small trigger] Roto: Allow me to introduce my little button. When I press it, a signal will be sent to my demon brother. He's been tracking your mother for some time, you see, and he's been very anxious to bite her head off! [Kurama lowers his guard] Heh, so you understand... [Roto begins pummelling Kurama] No fighting back! [Kurama throws a pebble at Roto's face] Roto: Oh, honestly, do you think throwing a pebble at my face is the best thing to do in this situation? You've been warned! With a push of this button, your mother will meet her death in a very unsightly manner! Now, fold your arms behind your back and let me hit you as I please! [Kurama complies] Oh, yes, that's much better! I love the posture of forced submission! Why train hard to be the best when you can hold onto one of these? Rinku (disgusted): Gee, that's so lame. Roto always uses that dirty trick of his. Zeru: Yes, and he always wins. That's the goal, remember! Rinku: I guess so... Roto (snickering): You want to try! I can see it in your pretty eyes. I know what you're thinking: "What if I can quickly cut off that left arm of his? But what if his severed finger still presses the button?" Gondawara (about Roto): What is that crude doing now? Just finish the fight! This is not for his personal amusement; fortunes are on the line! George: A loss would make it 2 to 0. Koenma (tersely): Yes, Ogre, I know. Koto: Kurama remains absolutely motionless! What is the cause? Has he lost his willingness to fight? Roto: Why don't you answer? [Roto kicks Kurama] Tell the crowd the truth! Tell them you refuse to fight for the sake of a human tramp! [Roto continues beating him] Koto: It's brutal, it's violent, it's wonderful! Roto is punching him like a side of meat and there's no retaliation! Roto: I hate that look! Despite all I've done, you still have that look, like you're superior to me! [Roto slices open Kurama's face] Stop! That! Look! [Roto slashes Kurama again] It doesn't matter anyway, because I'm the one who has the power now. [Roto raises his boot] I would like you to lick the scum off my boot. I just can't seem to keep it clean! And after you've wiped the whole thing clean, I will decapitate you and spare your nasty mother's life. And since you care about her, Shuichi, it's really your only choice! Kurama: I will not. Roto (startled): What? Kurama: Go ahead. Press it now if you wish. Roto: Ah, your true character emerges. You're nothing special, nothing high class! Just a selfish demon, like all the rest of us here! Look at me like I'm dirt,

but in the end it's a lie -- you think of nothing but yourself! [Roto cackles] Kurama: Push it! Roto: I will! [Roto attempts to push it, but cannot] Can't... move... Kurama: Fighting on the strength of one threat is a very risky gamble. [Kurama takes the trigger away from Roto] What if I truly didn't care? Or... what if I could just make you immobile? Koto: It's hard to tell what's happening but, but it's clear: Kurama has control! Kurama: I've sown the seed of the Death Plant in your body, and it's had plenty of time to take root. Roto (realizing): Ah, the pebble! It was a distraction, so I wouldn't notice the seed! Kurama: I feed it with my energy. I have but to will it, and it will instantly bloom. I'm afraid there won't be anything left of your evil life after that. [Kurama walks away] Roto (panicking): Wait, Kurama; you don't have to do this! I never actually would have pushed the button, I swear it! I'm just a low-class, I don't know any better! [Kurama pauses] Come on! You believe in mercy, don't you? Kurama: No. [the Death Plant blooms, killing Roto and leaving behind a beautiful blossom] Kurama: What irony. Such beauty, sprung from such an ugly soil... Hiei (about Roto): What a fool. So intent on proving himself he couldn't notice your moves. Don't worry about his demon friend; he vanished the moment Roto died. Zeru begins the match by unleashing his heat magic, producing a veritable storm of fire. Hiei easily dodges each blast, so Zeru uses a special technique in which he engulfs his own body in heat, essentially turning himself into a living bonfire. With a savage blow, he punctures Hiei's stomach and sets his body on fire, which makes it seem as if Hiei has been vanquished. But Hiei counterattacks brutally; he reveals his mystical Jagan Eye, with he uses to channel the Dragon of the Darkness Flame, eliminating Zeru. [Hiei vs. Zeru] WINNER: Hiei (URAMESHI) [after Roto loses] Gondawara (annoyed): What is this nonsense? They better get out there and score! Hiei: I know a great deal about your technique. [flashback to when Zeru slices a teacup apart with his heat energy] You harness heat energy with such precision that it resembled a knife cut... but one of the edges was sloppily melted. You have your flaw! Zeru: As do you. I don't think I need advice from someone who has to use a fake eye. [after Zeru fires a barrage of flames at Hiei] Zeru: You've become so quiet lately. Too frightened to notice any more of my supposed flaws?

Hiei: Actually, I'm bored. Zeru: Actually, you're dead! [Zeru fires another enormous fireball] [Zeru surrounds himself in flames] Koto: What is this? Oh, wow! [Zeru begins turning red] His skin is changing color! He seems to be engulfed in heat! He's glowing like a poker! [after Zeru blasts Hiei with a scorching jet] Koto: Wow, Zeru, you never told us you could be so... savage! [pause] I love it! Koto: You see it yourself, people! Hiei is done! Keiko: You really think he's beaten? Shizuru: I'm afraid he's a little more than that. Gondawara (to Sakyo): Well, in the unlikely event I were betting on a team like that, I'd be pretty damn pleased with them now, don't you think? [after Hiei has apparently been incinerated] Zeru (disdainfully): Huh! What a weak thing. You can rest in Hell! Koto: Well, yes, that fight wasn't a long one, but when you've got scorching moves like Zeru's, a little goes a long way! Hiei (offscreen): Yes! [Koto and Zeru gasp] Hiei: So talented, I'm reluctant to make the kill... [Hiei emerges from the flames] Koto: Oh... oh my! Hiei survived! He's on his feet! He's... smoldering! Zeru (astonished): He survived it all? How could you? Hiei: I believe we covered that! Though my Jagan Eye may not be 'natural', but it does give me exactly what I need! [chanting] Dragon of the Darkness Flame! George: Dragon of the what, sir? Koenma: Dragon of the Darkness Flame! It's incredibly dangerous! My father talked of it once, but I didn't think anyone could do it! [while wielding the Darkness Flame] Hiei: You know, it's impossible to control it completely. Once I release it, I have no say. I have enough power to blow you into oblivion! I assume just my right arm will do... [the Dragon of the Darkness Flame appears] You should have never insulted the Jagan Eye, because you see, in a way, it has its own mind, and loathes disrespect! Resisting it is not something I would do! Kuwabara: Yeah, we're punching our way to the top! Hiei can beat anyone with that move! [pause] Hiei can beat anyone with that move... am I listening to myself? What if he decides to be a bad guy again? What if he decides to shoot us with the Dragon? Hiei: Don't worry. We've entered into an alliance, and I'm not the type to break it. Of course, after we win the tournament I can't guarantee a thing... Kuwabara: (nervously): Heh... heh...

The drunken Chu is not taken seriously by Yusuke at first, but his speed and bizarrely graceful shambling (known as Suiken fighting) makes him a worthy opponent, and he pounds on Yusuke. Yusuke matches him blow for blow, however, and both fighters begin enjoying the brutality of the match. Chu unlocks his true form with alcohol, gaining nearly invincible power. After matching each other blow for blow, Chu tries to end the match with a massive energy ball, but Yusuke manages to save himself with two rapid-fire blasts from his spirit gun; both warriors are alive, but exhausted. They decide to end the fight in an odd way, with a knife's edge deathmatch; both opponents take off their shoes and put their foot in front of one of two knives. Then they battle in between the two knives as hard as they can, and appear to be at a draw, until Yusuke ends the match with a brutal headbutt that knocks Chu unconscious for the whole 10 count. [Yusuke vs. Chu] WINNER: Yusuke (URAMESHI) Shizuru: It's going to be hard for Yusuke to survive this one. Keiko: Why do you say that? Shizuru: Well, it's just a hunch, but mine are usually right... Kuwabara (about Chu): I know from school seminars drunk driving kills people! Maybe drunk fighting kinda the same thing! [after Chu knocks Yusuke out of the ring] Gondawara (chuckling): With Chu listed as the alternative, it was so easy to overlook this team! Perfect way to scam the other gamblers... hypothetically, of course! Keiko: Yeah, rip him a new one! Shizuru: There you go, girl! Keiko (blushing): Sorry! It's exciting! Yusuke: One dumb mistake and... I'm pushing daisies, right? Chu: Yeah, pretty much, kid! Yusuke: You know, this whole 'life or death' thing, I'm starting to like it! [Chu chuckles] Yusuke: Let me guess, you too? Chu: Never any pleasure in playing if it ain't for keeps! Yusuke: That's good, Drunky! We finally have something in common! [Chu pulls out a bottle] Chu: This is the strongest alky ever made! It's called Ogre Killer! Koto: Oh yeah, people! That's some strong stuff; take a sip of that, and you'll wake up in jail the next morning... in the arms of a hairy demon you really don't want to know! [Chu begins chugging it] Koto: And he's definitely taking more than a 'sip'!

[after Chu finishes drinking, his aura becomes so bright it overshadows the stadium] [when Chu begins throwing up and having dry heaves] Rinku: He may feel pretty terrible now, but actually Chu's becoming invincible. His secret technique isn't the drink, of course; it's the true form the drinking brings out! [while Chu and Yusuke exchange a flurry of brutal blows] Kuwabara: My gosh, they're not even bothering to block those head shots! Hiei: This is pure offense. They gave up fighting with their brains a long time ago. Now it's simply a matter of who can endure the most pain. [after the clash between Yusuke's double- spirit gun and Chu's energy ball] Chu (weakly): With that two-for-one shot, you used up all your ammo for your spirit gun! Maybe you can round up enough energy to swing your little dukes, but that's about it, right? Yusuke (panting): Pretty... much... defenseless. Chu: I can barely lift my arms! [both begin laughing] [after Chu sets up the knife's edge deathmatch] Chu: The edge of that knife is the edge of your world. That's the only rule of a Knife Edge Deathmatch: you don't step outside that line; you do, it's sudden death--and I mean death, and we fight with our bodies, no weapons. The winner is the last bloke standing. D'you think you can handle that? Yusuke: No sweat! Hiei: Now that the fight has been reduced to hand-to-hand, it will be the one with the strongest head that prevails... [during the deathmatch] Kuwabara: Whoa, are you watching this? I've never seen anything so impressive in my life. To them, it's like nothing else exists. Such focus... and such pain! I wish that were me in there! This is no longer a fight between two guys; this is the stuff legends are made of! I could watch them fight for hours! Keiko: I can't watch them fight any more! Shizuru: Keiko! Keiko: If Yusuke goes on like this, he'll wind up dead! Shizuru (quietly): Not like he hasn't 'been there/done that'... Keiko (angrily): What was that? [after Team Rokuyokai loses the match] Gondawara: I don't believe it. If I bet on that gutter trash, I'd be eating my shirt right about now! [Sakyo rises] Sakyo: I'm tired of your lies. I expect you gone upon my return. [Sakyo leaves]

Chu: Urameshi... We agreed to fight a deathmatch, mate. Finish me off. Yusuke: Nah, we'll fight again when you're better! Chu (pleased): You're a ripper! It's been a deadset honor, Urameshi! Yusuke: Likewise, pal! Team Profile - Team Ichigaki "I am but an inventor seeking to create the perfect fighting vehicle! No compassion or fear to hold it back!" --Dr. Ichigaki Team Ichigaki is unique among the Dark Tournament teams because it features a majority-human roster. The team's sponsor, Dr. Ichigaki, used a cruel trick to ensnare five human martial artists from the living world and force them to undergo his twisted experiments. The result of his work was a team of three elite fighters wielding phenomenal amounts of spirit energy. Dr. Ichigaki maintains his control over them using verrucae, a type of magical parasite that interfaces directly with its victim's nervous system; while the fighters on Team Ichigaki are noble and pacifistic, Dr. Ichigaki's mind control turns them into cold-blooded assassins. Dr. Ichigaki, unlike most of the team sponsors, has no interest in actually winning the Dark Tournament; he is merely using the event as an opportunity to scout for new victims to use as test subjects -- and he has set his eyes on Yusuke Urameshi as his next guinea pig. Team Urameshi vs. Team Ichigaki [Urameshi - 1 win | Ichigaki - 0 wins] With Kurama and Hiei off on their own, Yusuke, Kuwabara, and the Masked Fighter (Genkai) face off against the slaves of the evil doctor, Dr. Ichigaki -- a mad scientist who has taken a group of innocent martial artists and transformed them into mind-controlled experimental warriors. The warriors are victims, but their attacks remain swift and ferocious, keeping the others off balance and overwhelmed, especially once they realize that Ichigaki has used his science to unlock all of his human warriors' spirit energy, making them ridiculously powerful and impossible to track. They are at a standstill, with the Urameshi team unwilling to harm the innocents under mind control and the innocents unable to resist Ichigaki's compulsion to kill. Hiei and Kurama interrupt the match, arriving with the unconscious M5 and the destroyed robot Gatasubal, to explain the exact cause of the situation. Kuwabara tries to reach the team's inner goodness by just standing still and letting them pummel him, but all he manages is to awake their true selves -- which does not break Ichigaki's mind control. But Yusuke's anger and despair causes his spirit energy to skyrocket, putting the spirit warriors on the defensive. Before Yusuke can regretfully finish them off, Genkai interferes by using her Spirit Wave to free the fighters from the verrucae. [Yusuke, Kuwabara, & Genkai vs. M1, M2, M3] WINNER: Yusuke, Kuwabara, and Genkai (URAMESHI) Koto: Time is up. Both teams, step forward. Team captains, please decide the

terms for battle! Dr. Ichigaki: Isn't this mysterious? Both of our teams are missing two members. What do you say? We fight the people we have. Winner is best out of three. Yusuke: What about you? Don't the ugly, pointed-ear trolls like to fight, too? Dr. Ichigaki: Only when we have to, child. I prefer the managing position. Never any reason to do the work when you can watch somebody else do it for you. Hence the guinea pigs! Yusuke: So it's true... Dr. Ichigaki: They say that the spirit energy a human body is capable of is far greater than that of an apparition! A fierce monster of power locked within you all! It's only the human conscience that will keep this power at bay. Take away free will and the monster will say 'Hello'! Yusuke: How about 'ass-kicking'? Do they say that, too? Dr. Ichigaki: Every genius has his critics. I am but an inventor seeking to create the perfect fighting vehicle. No compassion or fear to hold it back. A human's Spirit Power on cruise control. Yusuke: Does it come with AC? Dr. Ichigaki: Mock me all you want! It'll be a different story when you're the one I'm controlling! Yusuke (alarmed): Say what? Dr. Ichigaki: Let's make this interesting. Your power fascinates me. If my team wins I get to use your body. Yusuke: Why not? And if my team wins I get to rip off your face. Dr. Ichigaki: Yes. I can live with that. (thinking) And the blind fall effortlessly into my trap. Without Kurama or Hiei here, my chance at victory is calculated at exactly ninety-eight percent! Genkai: We have one more condition. We combine the three matches into a six-person battle royale. One fight determines it all. Dr. Ichigaki: Perhaps... Kuwabara: Hold on, little guy! You mean all three of us fighting their three in the ring at the very same time? [Dr. Ichigaki enters in some new data into his calculator] Dr. Ichigaki (thinking): That drops their chances to just point-zero-five percent! (aloud) I will accept. Your masked friend drives a hard bargain! Genkai (about Dr. Ichigaki's fighters): These three competitors. I met them before. Kuwabara: You did? Genkai: Their instructor, Metamura, I met him before. He was a famous fighter back in the day. He said training good character was more important than physical skill. I was always struck by his students' respect for life. They would never kill, no matter what. Kuwabara (horrified): That explains it. The weird feeling I'm getting from themIt's like a whisper in their guts. They don't want to be fighting here. They're just forced to murder while their minds just watch... M1, M2, M3 (repeated, in unison): Kill... kill... kill... Yusuke: Maybe you can clear something up for me, genius. Those guys are

human, right? With spirit energy like us? Genkai: Of course. Kuwabara: Then why can't we feel it? I'm a spiritually aware person; that's what I do! Why can't I now? Genkai: That doctor's made it completely unfiltered. The size of their power is, frankly, more than your rookie brains can comprehend. Yusuke (frustrated): Perfect! Kuwabara: So, if we can't sense all their energy, how are we supposed to win? M5 (about his giant robot): Gatasubal is what we like to call him. One of the doctor's earlier projects. Part demon, mostly machine, and no feelings, no pain, and no fear! Go, Gatasubal, destroy those two low-lives! [the machine lumbers towards Hiei and Kurama and attacks] [after the machine slams into Hiei] M5: See the genius of the doctor's work? It has no feelings or thoughts to distract! It thinks only of the kill! Hiei: I can appreciate that... [when Hiei's sword fails to cut through Gatasubal's armor] M5: Gatasubal's whole body is covered in a special formula of hybridized metal, combining the hardest steel with actual living cells. No substance in the whole world can break it! [after Kurama gets the machine's own arms to slam into its own body, destroying it] M5: Excellent, Gatasubal! Now kill the other one too! [realizing that the machine is broken] M5: What's wrong with you? I said 'kill'! [Kurama emerges from the wreckage] Kurama: You were wrong on two counts. M5: (alarmed): I'm wrong? What do you mean? What just happened? Kurama: Even the hardest substance can be broken, when crashed into itself. And the ability to feel pain is not a weakness; it's a strength. Pain tells a creature its vulnerabilities, and not to expose them to attack. Your robot is dead. And so, I'm afraid, are you... [after figuring out the Ichigaki team's fighting strategy] Genkai (pensively): Those Angel Blades are the only attacks that Yusuke and Kuwabara can see! The blades come first as a distraction, then they surprise them with an invisible attack! It's a brilliant tactic! Keiko: Oh, Yusuke, what's the matter? Fight back! Shizuru: They're going to lose this one. [Keiko gasps] Shizuru: It'd be a hard match even if Yusuke and my brother were fighting with everything they had. But they're not -- they just feel too sorry for these guys. Keiko: Sorry for what?

Dr. Ichigaki: I can imagine the fun my robot's having right now with Hiei and Kurama. Against their statistics, his percentage of victory was just over 80%! Yes! All my inventions are doing splendidly. My verrucae most of all. Millions of micro-electronics pumping through their blood, controlling the nearby cells. The circulatory system reaches a human's every inch; control the blood, and the body is yours! [after Genkai gets hit by M3 and knocked into a nearby wall] Younger Toguro: Mankind killing itself. This year's tournament is turning out to be interesting, isn't it? Sakyo: Yes, you should read our history books; we humans have always found brutalizing each other to hold a certain charm. Kuwabara: Come on, you guys! Just snap out of it! You still have your feelings! You don't have to listen to that doctor! [M2 hurls his Angel Blades at Kuwabara] Dr. Ichigaki: Give my invention its credit, dear boy. It's scientifically impossible for to resist the control of the verruca. It's zero percentage! Try your touchy-feely mumbo jumbo all you want, the fact is I'm in control and I make them kill! [Dr. Ichigaki laughs maniacally as his team attacks again] [after Genkai's mask comes off] Yusuke: He's... Kuwabara: ...a she! [Hiei and Kurama return to the ring] Kurama: M5 told us everything. I'm relieved your three are alive. Those verrucae on the human fighters' backs are the source of Dr. Ichigaki's mind control, and in their present state, I'm afraid it would be fatal to remove them. The three are completely innocent. They didn't know the implants would control them; they were told it was blood research. Kuwabara: I told you guys! That no-good liar! Kurama: And that's not the extent of it, I'm afraid. It seems the doctor caused their master's illness in the first place! [Dr. Ichigaki laughs maniacally] Dr. Ichigaki (thinking): It sounds so amusing when they say it! Go ahead, tell the world my ingenious scheme! It will make no difference on the result of this fight! Dr. Ichigaki: Your unscientific minds are so trivial, fully blind to the larger picture! So maybe I did infect Metamura, maybe I lied to get their bodies, and maybe I enjoyed it. Who cares? Behind every lab discovery are a few poisoned rats! Kuwabara: Shut up, Ichigaki! You're full of crap and you know it! You don't care about this science stuff; you're just trying to win the tournament! Dr. Ichigaki: Means to an end, boy, means to an end! I have no expectation for winning this! I'm sure these three will be killed long before the finals! I only need to win this match so I can have Yusuke's body! Yusuke: What?

Dr. Ichigaki: They're strong, but they have nothing like the potential you have, Yusuke! I'll probably dispose of them myself once I get you! Kuwabara (enraged): You what? Yusuke: Damn it, that's it! Genkai: Stop and think, boys. He's manipulating your emotions. You're losing what little focus you had! [Team Ichigaki steps in to protect Dr. Ichigaki for the second time] Yusuke (annoyed): Give me a break! You're still protecting this guy? Kuwabara: C'mon guys, at least say something! You heard the doctor himself! He doesn't care about-Dr. Ichigaki: Have you learned nothing yet? Nothing you say will matter; their old selves aren't in control. As the blood from the verruca enters the subject's skull, the micro-electronics alter the brain's chemistry. Their entire personality is changed! This isn't a simple hypnosis, or one suggestive command! I'm talking about a constant voice in their head, in every waking moment controlling them from inside. They're not protecting me because I've given the command; their new brain actually wants to! You see, therein lies the beauty of my invention. They don't listen to me or anyone else; the commands become part of who they are! So kill them if you can; their humanity is already dead! Kuwabara: I can't! It isn't true! I know there's something more! [Kuwabara has another vision of the students at Metamura's dojo] Kuwabara (realizing): Right there! That image! I see it again! It's stuck in my eyelids; everytime I blink it's there! Wait... wait, I understand now, Urameshi: It's not a dream; it's a message. Ichigaki's wrong; their old selves haven't been erased, just covered up! Dr. Ichigaki: After all I've said, you're still clinging to pathetic hopes! Avoid anything as long as it makes you feel better, right? Well, then let your compassion lead you all the way to your graves! [Kuwabara stands his ground against Team Ichigaki] Kuwabara: These guys chose me to send their message to. I'm all they've got; and now I have to accept my responsibility as a man! Hiei: What is he talking about? Kurama: This is not wise! Keiko: Why doesn't he run? Shizuru: Brother! Kuwabara: OK, guys, I hear what you're saying to me. But you gotta tell me how to help! [M2 blasts Kuwabara] M1: Angel Blades! [M1 blasts Kuwabara] Yusuke: Kuwabara! Kuwabara: No! [Kuwabara grabs M3, who pummels him] Kuwabara: Please! I know it feels like you're beat, but you're not -- this is still your body! Please! Think about your master, everything you--aaah! [M3 knocks Kuwabara down] Yusuke: Enough of this! I'm coming in to help! Kuwabara: No, stay back! I'm the only one who needs to do this!

[M1, M2, & M3 charge straight at an unmoving Kuwabara with their energy attacks] Kuwabara: This is for you! [the three fighters slam into Kuwabara] Yusuke: Kuwabara! Shizuru: Please, no! [Kuwabara lands outside of the ring, unconscious] [after M1, M2, & M3 pummel Kuwabara] George: Did you see that, sir? He just stood there and let himself get railroaded! That boy is too kindhearted for this tournament! Koenma: There comes a time when everyone has to stand up for what they believe in. Kuwabara may just have stood on the wrong foot! Yusuke (enraged): How could you do that? You're the bastards who asked him for help! [Yusuke notices the fighters' crying blood] Yusuke (horrified): Tears of blood? M1, M2, M3 (in unison, sorrowfully): Kill... kill us... kill... us... kill... us... (quicker) kill us... kill us... kill us... kill us... Yusuke: What is this? Actually feeling guilty now, when it's over? Genkai: No, Yusuke; it's not over. For Kuwabara, anyway. They deliberately missed his vital points. He will live. Botan: Amazing! Kuwabara's plea really worked! Genkai: Not completely. Their true selves have awoken, but they're not in control. I'm afraid this surfacing of emotion will not last for long. Yusuke: These guys must be at war with their own bodies -- and they're losing... M1, M2, M3 (in unison, sorrowfully): Kill... kill us... kill us... kill us... Dr. Ichigaki (smugly): Really? The humans' emotional brain is the only part throwing the wrench in my socket! Millions of micro-electronics sending control through their neural paths, and yet that 'feeling' crap manages to poke out its head . The verrucae will soon fix that! [Yusuke's aura becomes much brighter] Yusuke: This is the one chance you guys get to talk, and all you can say is 'kill you'? It must be Hell in there. Stupid doctor thinks he can torture like that? No way! Genkai (thinking): Yusuke's maximum spirit power is skyrocketing. Finally, his emotions have broken the wall... [after Yusuke's spirit energy skyrockets, enabling him to see the warriors' attacks] Koto: Absolutely amazing! The fight's been flipped onto its backside. Suddenly Wonder-Boy Yusuke is taking on the whole team by himself! Dr. Ichigaki (alarmed): But... I don't understand! How can a person's ability to sense energy attacks increase midway through a fight? This isn't in my calculations! [Ichigaki consults his calculator] No worries. Let me just refigure the equation here. Ah, here we go: 52.72...%. 52.725%?! Hiei: Percentages are for poker. Kurama: You can factor strengths and stamina, Doctor, I'll give you that.

Determining the true heart of a person is quite a different thing. Dr. Ichigaki (annoyed): Buzz off! I must have pushed a wrong number. (to his team) What's the delay, you lab rats? Destroy him! [Yusuke begins charging his Spirit Gun] Yusuke: Lucky for you guys, I'm pretty good at avoiding my feelings. Otherwise, I'd be getting sick on myself right now for what I gotta do. I'd say this is gonna hurt me more than it hurts you...but I don't like to lie! [Genkai grabs Yusuke's arm] Genkai: Wait! It's all right! Yusuke (alarmed): I... I can't move my arm! Genkai: Let me take over from here. George: What do you think the Masked Fighter is planning to do now, sir? [Koenma groans] George: They were perfectly innocent until that doctor tricked them. Killing them wouldn't be fair! Koenma: Obviously. But then the completely fair choice might not be an available one! Death seems to be the only option. George: But if that's true, then why did she stop Yusuke? Nothing makes sense! Koenma: Don't be hysterical; I assure you, the Masked Fighter is someone we can trust! [after Genkai blasts the three fighters with her Spirit Wave] Yusuke: Hey, what did you to those guys? Why'd you hold me back if you were just gonna kill them? Genkai: I did what I had to, nothing more. Koenma: I told you the Masked Fighter would handle it! George (tearfully): You told me we could trust her! She just killed innocent people! No offense, Koenma, sir but I don't think I want to root for your team any more! Kuwabara (dazed): No, it's all a sham! We're supposed to be the good guys; we should've saved them! Yusuke (enraged): Stupid Doc pushing this on us. Stupid Dark Tournament. (to Dr. Ichigaki) Hey, asshole! You know you're not just walking away, right? [Dr. Ichigaki backs away nervously; Hiei and Kurama come up behind him] Hiei: Don't embarass yourself. Kurama: Acknowledge your cruelty, and your punishment will be swift. Dr. Ichigaki: Hold on! What if I told you that the master, Metamura, was still alive? But I am the only person in the world who knows where he's hidden and how to reverse his disease! Kurama: Sorry. Moot point. [Kurama indicates Metamura, who is standing on the other side of the ring] [Dr. Ichigaki gasps] Metamura (angrily): You evil man! Dr. Ichigaki: What? How did he get here? Hiei: Your assistant was in the mood to talk...

[flashback to Hiei torturing and questioning M5] Hiei: His memory improved very quickly. We only had to walk two miles to find him. After seeing Metamura's symptoms, Kurama was easily able to make an antidote. Kurama: I acquired a few poisonous herbs as well on this island. Care to try one, Doctor? Yusuke: No need for that, Kurama. (to Dr. Ichigaki) You ready to die? [Dr. Ichigaki takes out a syringe] Dr. Ichigaki: You pathetic little minds! Did you really think I would experiment with body manipulation?... and not save some for myself? [Dr. Ichigaki injects himself with the power serum] Dr. Ichigaki: Another brilliant development, from the brilliant mind of Dr. Ichiga-a-a-aaagh! [Ichigaki transforms into a huge demon] Instant gene therapy! Dr. Ichigaki (deep voice): Did you mindless puny creatures actually think you could stop the progress of science? Let me show you my modifications! [Dr. Ichigaki lashes out at the Urameshi team with his new gigantic form] [Yusuke kicks Dr. Ichigaki three times] Yusuke: That was for the three innocent lives you stole! And this one's for screwing with their master! [Yusuke punches Ichigaki] Kurama: Nicely put! Yusuke: And this is for my friend who felt sorry for them and got his ass kicked into the ground! [Yusuke strikes Dr. Ichigaki again.] Kuwabara (weakly): Thanks for the shout-out, Urameshi... Yusuke: And the last one's for me... just for pissing me off! [Yusuke's last punch sends Dr. Ichigaki flying into the stands] Metamura (weeping): It doesn't matter. Taking Dr. Ichigaki's life away is never going to bring them back. Ken. Ryo. Kai. It's all my fault. How could I ever forgive myself? Genkai: Save your tears, Metamura. Your boys aren't dead! Yusuke: Are you kidding? [M1, M2, and M3 awake and sit up] Kai: I... I can move? Yusuke: Now, this is stupid-weird! Ryo: Kai? Yen? Kuwabara: Hey, fill me in! I can't see up there, you know! Kai: We're really alive! Ryo: And in complete control! Yusuke: But... I don't understand! A few minutes ago, their spirit energy was completely AWOL. Genkai (thinking): Yes. I guess it worked. It's been 20 years since I used that technique... Metamura: I never thought I'd see you! Yen: Master... [the fighters turn and walk away] Metamura: Wait, why do you turn? Kai: We've committed horrible sins. I can't even remember all the people that

I-Ryo: The lessons that you taught us didn't mean anything. We're a disgrace to your dojo. Yen: Please just leave us, Master. We can't bear to look at you now! Kai: Damn it! Why couldn't she have just killed us? Metamura (angrily): How can you say such things? Genkai: Your Master is right; your guilt is placed. The technique I used was called the Spirit Wave. It is one of the five great attacks by trial, and it is powered by your own spirit energy. If your souls are corrupt, then the wickedness will take your life. But if you're pure of heart, then that purity consumes you, destroying any outside impediments. It was your souls that destroyed the verrucae and freed you, not me. That proves you have nothing to hide. Metamura: Yen, Ryo, Kai... she says what I've known all along! If there was anything you could to prevent those kills, you would have! Your bodies were taken over, but who you really are, your souls, are still clean! I see you in the same way now as I always have: as my three most noble students! Let's put this behind us! [the fighters run to him and embrace him] "We are entering a new era, and we will begin with a land of our own: this island. It has already been arranged that, if we win this tournament, Hanging Neck Island will be our prize. Then once this blinding light pours over us all, like branches we will cover the world." --Touya Team Profile - Team Masho Team Masho is a pseudonym for a mysterious sect known as the Shinobi of the Spirit World. They are perhaps more familiar under their other name -- the ninja. Their reason for entering this tournament is to seek an end to their selfenforced exile from the outside world by seeking what they call the 'light'; as part of this dream, they have asked the Tournament Committee to grant them the deed to Hanging Neck Island (the site of the Dark Tournament) upon their victory. Under their leader, the wind master Jin, Team Masho is a deadly fighting force; however, their greatest asset is the support of their team's sponsor, Butajiri, who wields his clout with the Tournament Committee to tamper with Team Masho's opponents and secure favorable rulings on their behalf. Team Urameshi vs. Team Masho [Urameshi - 5 wins | Masho - 2 wins] Kurama has an early advantage, but Gama manages to awake his spirit energy by painting himself with his demonic make-up, then uses another form of make-up, known as the make-up of chains, to immobilize Kurama. As Gama goes in for the kill, Kurama manages to cut him apart by telekinetically manipulating his rose whip. Kurama tells Gama to release him and use his power to heal himself, but Gama refuses, instead uses his last moments to splash his own blood on Kurama to paint upon the fox demon his make-up of the seal. This make-up prevents Kurama from using his spirit energy.

[Kurama vs. Gama] WINNER: Kurama (URAMESHI) Gama: Tell me, demon traitor, what does the word 'make-up' bring to mind? Human females, no doubt; a little gloss to attract the next mate! Disgusting, isn't it, the way humans manage to bastardize everything they touch. Over centuries, the human influence has infected the Spirit World as well. Now few demons even know its original power! [after he finishes applying his makeup] Allow me to show you! [after Gama covers Kurama's leg with paint] Kurama: If you don't mind me asking, what exactly have you done to me? Gama (snickering): Your leg feels like a giant block of lead, doesn't it? Kurama (thinking): That smell... Yusuke: Let me get this straight, you can't move any part of your body that gets marked up by that junk? Gama: The make-up of death has already marked you, Kurama; there's no hope for escape! Touya: Kurama's struggling is pointless. The makeup seeps through any clothing and attaches to the skin, transmitting Gama's spirit energy as if he were gripped by Gama's own fist. [after Gama marks Kurama's other leg and his arms ] Gama: The costume is completed! The Make-up of Chains! [snickers] Go ahead, just try and limp away now! Yusuke: Kurama, get rid of the outfit! Gama: Hah, don't be naive! Even if he had the strength to, it wouldn't change a thing; nearly two thousand pounds of weight is chained directly to his skin! Koto: Kurama's arms and legs are completely useless! He can do nothing but stand and wait for his bloody demise! Yusuke (to Kurama): Don't leave me alone with these guys! Kuwabara: If he dies, we're done for! [after Kurama telekinetically manipulates his rose whip to slash at Gama] Gama (weakly): But... the Make-up of Chains...! Kurama: Only an amateur depends on arms and legs for victory. Gama: Damn you, don't take the credit for this! I killed myself today, with the mistake of not sealing your energy as well... Kurama: Don't waste your breath in conversation. I know with the power you're using to restrain me, you can easily heal your injuries. Release me and I will let you walk away with your life. Gama: Convincing, aren't you? But the battle isn't over yet! Kurama: Even with my arms and legs bound, you are in no shape to fight me. Don't die pointlessly, Gama; you are too intelligent for that. Gama (weakly): I appreciate your confidence... aaahh!

[Gama struggles to hit Kurama, staggering past him and splashing him with his own blood] Kurama: Don't move; you'll bleed to death if you keep trying to fight! It's of no use; be wise! [Gama collapses] Koto: That was the most beautiful thing I've ever seen! [begins counting] One! Kurama: You were correct after all. It's wholly your fault that you die in vain. I cannot pity you. Koto (continuing): Two! Three! Four! Five! Six! Seven! Gama: The death is yours! Kurama: What? Gama: You never asked me what gave my make-up its power, what made it different from the make-up of those other human fools. The difference is the main ingredient, Kurama -- it's made of my blood! I have given you the Makeup of the Seal! Yusuke: I am definitely not liking the sound of that! Gama: It's what I should have done from the start. I've sealed your spirit energy. Yusuke: Kurama... Gama: Your entire power trapped inside your body. Even as I fade, the effect will live on. I have secured victory for my Shinobi sect. And so I die, knowing it is not in vain! Kurama begins the fight with Touya, the ice master, completely immobilized by Gama's make-up of the seal and make-up of chains. He stalls by asking questions, hoping to wait until the seals expire. Touya doesn't let that go on for long; he begins by freezing the arena and pelting Kurama with little bullets of ice. Kurama regains his mobility but his spirit energy remains sealed, giving Touya a huge advantage. Kurama manages to access a small amount of his spirit energy through his own bleeding wounds, but it's not enough. In the end, Kurama wins the battle by sowing the death plant into one of his open wounds, allowing it to draw its magic from his blood. This enables him to knock Touya down for 10 counts, but it nearly kills him the process. [Kurama v. Touya] WINNER: Kurama (URAMESHI) [Touya removes his Shinobi robe and steps into the ring] Hiei: It's Touya, the master of ice! Get him out of there, Yusuke! Touya (to Gama's body): You fought bravely, Gama. I assure you, your death will be honored. Kurama will pay! Butajiri: There are you are, Sakyo! I've been looking all over for you! You do have a VIP ticket, you know! Why are you sharing ass space with these animals? Sakyo: Apparitions don't pretend to know what's going to happen. It's more exciting that way. Butajiri: Interesting opinion... Of course, you don't have to pretend if you play the way I do. How do you like the medical tent scheme I came up with? Sure didn't take much to get the committee going along! They just want that Yusuke

kid dead. Personally, I think it's that mess with Tarukane. We all suspect that Yusuke was responsible for his death, and even Spirit World detectives should know not to screw around with the rich and powerful, right Sakyo? right sHe'll die alright; even if this plan doesn't work I've got a hundred more to pull out! Hiei: It's hopeless. Genkai: Kurama still has one weapon that he can use: time. The first curse should wear off soon, and Kurama will be able to move. If he can stall Touya long enough, perhaps he can regain his energy too. Kurama: Please, answer me one thing first: why? The Shinobi have always dealt with their affairs in secret. Why expose yourselves now? Touya: For light. Kurama: Explain. Touya: It's simple -- even the strongest tree will die if left in the dark. I find that to be the best way to describe us: a giant oak, crashing through the dark soil, bringing order to an otherwise chaotic land. The Shinobi have done their job for centuries, and done it well. But in recent years, we have caught glimpses of the outside world and asked, 'Why not us? Have we not earned the privilege that others take for free?' We are entering a new era, and we will begin with a land of our own: this island. It has already been arranged that, if we win this tournament, Hanging Neck Island will be our prize. Then once this blinding light pours over us all, like branches we will cover the world. [after hearing Touya's speech] Hiei: Huh. The ninjas are revolting. Genkai: The Shinobi have survived for centuries by each master passing their knowledge to one apprentice before he dies. The previous masters must have made poor selections; these fighters don't know their place! Hiei: Hmph. I don't give a damn about their internal disputes. The only important thing is how strong they are. I've fought my share of ice warriors. Seiryu the Blue Dragon fell to my sword quickly enough, but he was no 'master'; he was a fool who thought he could get by on half of his lessons. But if there is any true ice master, anyone who completed the full training that his master intended and knows the art of ice, it is Touya. Touya: Let's cease with the conversation. I know you're simply trying to buy time for that seal to wear off. Kurama: I admit, you've caught me with my hands red! [after Touya freezes the arena into an iceberg] Kurama: Your own climate-control. That's very impressive. Touya: In addition to improving my attacks, it will serve as a barrier, giving you fewer options for escape. Even with your energy sealed, I admit, I'm somewhat hesitant to get near you... what with your little 'rose whip' manuever. You understand -- I'd rather kill long-distance! George: Uh, Koenma, sir, there must be something he can do! He needs to win this fight for the team! Koenma: Don't be a numbskull! Without access to his energy, the only thing

he 'needs' to do is quit! George: But what about heroism, sir? Determination? Koenma: Save it for your storybooks. It's much better to dump it all on Yusuke. Running like a baby is perfectly brave if the odds are too tough. Yessir! George (scornfully): Is that so, Koenma? Koenma: Hey, what's with that tone in your voice? George: Oh, nothing, sir! Koenma (enraged): Did you just roll your eyes at me? I think you just rolled your eyes! I know you're not disagreeing with the Super Almighty Koenma! George: Gee, I'm glad Kurama has more of a spine than you do, sir... Koenma (tersely): Say something, Ogre? George (quickly): N-Nothing, sir, nothing! [after Kurama rises after a severe blow from Touya] Touya: That hit was not enough to beat you; I know that you stayed down intentionally, yet another attempt to buy time. I don't suggest you trying it again! Kurama (thinking): His wits match my own. Unless I can find a way to my energy soon, he'll bleed me to death! [Kurama looks down at his bloodsoaked hands] Perhaps... the seal is powered by Gama's blood; perhaps my own will disengage it! [Kurama releases his rose whip by letting out some of his blood; he screams in pain] Touya: I see; you've noticed inklings of your energy inside of your blood. Only one problem -- to release enough to beat me, you'd have to bleed yourself dry! [after Kurama survives another ice attack] Touya (thinking): This doesn't make sense. No one could survive all those direct hits from my ice attack. Not unless... (aloud) you really are dangerous, aren't you? I haven't been making direct hits; you've been blocking the vital points with your own body! You must be very old, experienced ... perhaps as I am. Kurama: More alike than you know. Now tell me -- this new life on the outside, what do you truly plan to do with it? Touya (hesitantly): The world will know... just as soon as we get there. Kurama: Don't assume... Touya: Could it be he still plans to win this? He was delaying me all along, letting me believe I was winning. All the while thinking of some clever plan... [Touya creates a sword out of ice] I can't allow this to continue! [Touya is slashing at Kurama with his sword, and Kurama is barely dodging] Kurama (thinking): The slightest mistake and I'll be killed! I can't afford to postpone any longer! Yusuke: Tell Fox Girl you give up! I swear I'll take it from here! Kuwabara: Urameshi knows he can't beat four guys in a row; if Kurama loses we're dead meat! Botan: Just tell me when it's over! Kurama (thinking): No more delaying the inevitable! It's time I take my responsibility and make my stand!

[Touya stabs Kurama and he collapses] Koenma (about Kurama): Why do I get the feeling that our most intelligent fighter is going to do something incredibly stupid? Kurama: Let me do what I must, Yusuke! Touya: I'm going to end your life in one blow. Prepare yourself. [Kurama groans as he inserts a seed into his open wound] Touya: It seems that I've gotten to know you quite well in such a short fight; I rather like you! Let's not have this slaying ruin our friendship! Kurama: My thoughts exactly! [after Kurama's death plant sprouts out of his body and attacks Touya] Touya: But how... your energy is locked inside of you! How could you manipulate your death plant? [he notices Kurama's wound] Insane! You actually sowed the death plant seed into your own body! Kurama: It was my only option, my powers locked inside. By inserting the seed into my open wound, the plant could enter my bloodstream and take root in my imprisoned energy. Touya (weakly): You... really are something... [Touya collapses] Kuwabara: He really did it! Botan: Like the saying: they can cut your skin as long as you break their bones! Keiko: Kurama's OK for doing that, isn't he? Shizuru: There's a killer plant growing through his body; what do you think? Koenma, George (cheering, in unison): We won! We won! We won! George: You see, Koenma, sir, there is something to be said for not giving up! Koenma: Of course there is; I've been saying that this whole time and you've been disagreeing! George (quietly): Not what I remember... [after Team Masho loses round 2] Butajiri: Ugh, what is this? I lay everything on a platter and they still botch it up! I can't believe I gotta do everything for these filth! Touya: You have won the match. I admit it. Please, kill me. Kurama: I will not. You never answered -- what do you plan to do with this island, if you get it? Touya: Who cares? Kurama: I too have spent years in shadow. Interesting, how unexpected, regret can appear. That's what this light does. I only wanted to know if you could make your life better... nobler... than mine has been... [Kurama blacks out] As Kurama is unconscious for the entirety of this fight, Bakken is able to

brutalize him for as long as he wants in retaliation for the defeat of his other two teammates. Bakken easily wins, though only after his master, Risho, commands him to throw Kurama's body out of the ring before Yusuke annihilates him with his spirit gun. [Kurama vs. Bakken] WINNER: Bakken (MASHO) [after Kurama passes out] Yusuke: Hey, Fox Girl, just so we're clear -- the rest of the fights are all mine! [Bakken enters the ring] Bakken: Not so fast! Yusuke: What? Bakken: You forgot something. He's standing in the ring! Yes, it looks to me like he's volunteering to fight again. [chuckles] Yusuke: Oh, gimme a break! Kurama's not even conscious anymore! I'm taking this fight! Koto: All right, team captain decides -- Yusuke vs. Bakken! Announcement: Correction -- the next fight will be Kurama vs. Bakken. Yusuke, Kuwabara: What?! Announcement: A fighter standing in the ring cannot be removed against his will. As will cannot be determined, the fighter remains. [Kurama lies unconscious at Bakken's feet] Bakken (chuckling): Heh heh, you look so peaceful with your little flowers... Koto: Kurama's definitely down. Bakken, step away so I can start the count. Bakken (irritated): You again? Koto (nervously): I'm--just gonna do my job, okay? One! Two! Three! Four! Bakken: You must think you're a comedian. Nobody humiliates my sect and gets to slip away with a 'ten count'. Koto: Five! Six! Seven! Eight! Nine and-[Bakken lifts Kurama's body into the air] Yusuke: Say ten! Bakken: Oh look, he's on his feet again. Guess that means he wants more! [Bakken strikes Kurama again] Bakken: Not much of a challenge for me! I like that! Risho: This win would help us greatly. Jin (disgusted): Hmph. Koto: Stop! I'm all for extreme pain and torture, you disgusting horse, but this guy's not even awake to enjoy it! I'm taking a ten count! Bakken: Count yourself out! [Bakken knocks Koto out of the ring] We're making the rules now, not you! [Bakken picks up Kurama's body] Bakken: I won't risk enjoying myself any longer; I'll just break your face! [Bakken is about to kill Kurama] Risho: Bakken, stop! Bakken: But why, Risho?

Risho: Lay him outside of the ring. Bakken: But he's killed our sect members! Risho: Yes, and if you had landed that punch, you would have died as well! Bakken: What? [Bakken turns around and sees Yusuke aiming his spirit gun at him] Risho: Or do you think you would have survived a bullet to the back? It's clear Yusuke cares more about that demon's life than this tournament. He's ready to fight every apparition in the stadium if he must. We need to win, not be involved in a revolt! Bakken (disgusted): Huh! You're getting soft, Risho. You'll end up like Gama and Touya. If this prize is what we really want, then we shouldn't be making concessions! [He throws Kurama out of the ring] Bakken: Fine! Take your precious buddy! After Bakken's ignominious 'victory' over Kurama, Yusuke steps in, his eyes burning with fury. Bakken begins the fight by producing a ridiculous quantity of sweat from his body. This forms Bakken's only technique, the White Mist, which generates a vast smokescreen of sweat that initially keeps Yusuke off balance. A blast from his spirit gun is enough to disperse it completely. Yusuke dominates the fight for the rest of the battle. Bakken begs for mercy; Yusuke almost lets him go, but Bakken takes advantage and hits him on the head with a rock. Yusuke loses control and pummels him, winning the match. [Yusuke v. Bakken] WINNER: Yusuke (URAMESHI) Bakken (sardonically): Ooh, what a scary look! Am I supposed to shivering in my bootstraps now, or should I just be running for my life? Yusuke: Why don't we let the fight answer that? Sakyo: His strength's abysmal compared to Yusuke's, you do know that, don't you? Butajiri: Who gives a damn? Bakken's special technique should take care of that. He should pop any time! Yusuke: What's wrong, Bakken? We haven't started yet and you've already got a nervous sweat! Do you give up? Bakken: You really are an idiot, aren't you? [chuckles] Mystical power of the Shinobi -- White Mist! [a vast cloud of white mist emerges from his pores and envelops the arena] Kuwabara: He must be using the mist to hide himself. Botan: Well, Yusuke's won in the dark before, right? Shizuru (sarcastically): Oh, now this is perfectly charming. Keiko (disgusted): It smells like sweat! Koto: Pure insanity; the ring's been devoured by a giant cloud of mist! Urameshi has absolutely no idea where Bakken's first attack will come from. In fact, neither do I; I can't even see my microphone in front of me!

[after Bakken lands a few solid hits on Yusuke] Bakken: Yes, that one hurt a little more, didn't it? You couldn't even manage a block! [Bakken hits him again] It doesn't make any difference that you saved Kurama! New person, same result! Your team is just one big punching bag for me! [chuckles] [Yusuke laughs] Bakken: What's so funny? Have I knocked you witless? Yusuke: I'm laughing 'cause I'm relieved. You had me worried when you were punching Kurama, but now that I know how soft your fists are I feel a lot better! Bakken: Huh? Yusuke: Now I see why you were scared when Jin touched you before. Bakken: I was not! Yusuke: Oh, come on, your whole robe was shaking! I mean, I don't blame you; this stupid sweat fog is your only trick -- I bet Jin could knock it away with one little gust of wind. [Yusuke chuckles] Bakken: You better shut your trap! You're not a wind master, are you? So you're getting ready to die! We'll see how soft my punches are! [Bakken attacks] [Yusuke fires his Spirit Gun at the ground, creating an explosion that knocks Bakken to the ground] Bakken: I don't understand what just happened... [the mist begins evaporating] Bakken: All my mist... it's disappearing! Koto: A brilliant strategy by Yusuke; he's used the force of his Spirit Gun blast to blow the mist out of the stadium! Yusuke: Let me explain what's about to happen. You basically have two real options here: you can either turn around and have me beat the crap out of you, or you can get on your hands and knees and start begging and maybe -- just maybe -- I'll listen. Bakken: You dirty little son of a b-- [Bakken turns; Yusuke punches him hard in the stomach, shattering several ribs] [after Bakken hits the ground] Bakken: Stay away, please, I think I might have punctured something! Just have some mercy on me! Yusuke: Right, 'mercy'. Like the way you kept beating Kurama when he was laid out on the floor? Bakken (stammering): No, i-it wasn't like that! I-I wasn't cruel to him, I was just excited! It was in the heat of battle, I don't even remember what I did to him. I promise, I don't even remember, and whatever I did, I didn't mean it! [Bakken begins sobbing] I'm so sorry! Yusuke (kindly): Hey, calm down, buddy! You're embarassing me here! [Bakken takes the opportunity to sneak-attack Yusuke with a rock, which does less damage than he hopes] Yusuke (coldly): Cheer up, Bakken. Your brain's just small! It's not your fault you can't remember all those things you did to Kurama... so I'm going to refresh your memory by using your body as an example! See, first you jumped in and grabbed him a little like this--and then--!

[Yusuke begins pummelling Bakken] Yusuke squares off against Jin, the Wind Master. Jin' paranormal speed and his ability to fly using his wind magic gives him a pretty insurmountable advantage, which is compounded once Jin demonstrates his ability to use the air itself to form barriers to deflect his attacks. Yusuke tries to use the Spirit Wave to end the match, clashing with Jin's double-tornado blast, but Butajiri interferes once again, persuading the tournament officials to declare the match a double loss in order to disqualify Yusuke from competing in the next match against Risho. [Yusuke vs. Jin] WINNER: None/double loss Koenma: What's the big hoopla over this Jin guy? How scary can moving air be? Is he master of fire or darkness or something too? George: No sir, just wind! Koenma: Groovy! [Koenma is about to eat a lobster] George: But Koenma sir, this is still an extremely dangerous fight for your team. I'm not sure that feasting now would be appropriate! [when Jin lingers high in the sky] Yusuke: Hey, come on, you've got a fight to lose! Jin: Sorry, Urameshi, but I'm getting my prize! [when Yusuke gets mad at Jin for flying around] Jin: Nothing to be in all a fuss for, Urameshi! A man's just got to get into the right spirit before he fights -- don't you think it's so? Yusuke: You know, one of these days I'm going to fight someone who talks like a normal person! Jin (thinking): Took a punch straight to the face just for a chance to kick me. He's a crazy one for sure... Jin: We're a pair in a pod, Urameshi; never wanting to do anything the way people tell us to. Even if we don't make sense, better to be messy on your own than right under someone's watch, am I right? Yusuke: Well, yeah! Why let some teacher get the credit? Heh, I figure I've been doing all right on my own so far! Botan: What in the world are they talking about up there? They're both smiling. Kuwabara: Looks like Urameshi's finally found someone he can play with! Botan: Oh? Kuwabara: He's been a loner for about as long as I've known him. Keiko's the only one who can talk to him... and I'll be darned if I understand that relationship. This Jin guy's just the same, like a twin! Botan: Hmph! Well, that'll make fighting with him difficult. [Kurama chuckles] Botan: What's wrong, Kurama? Are you alright?

Kurama: Just laughing! It seems you don't know brothers very well, Botan! Koenma: Hmm, I've decided I should have the power to control wind too, Ogre! Look into it! George: What for, sir? Koenma: I'm sure I could do all sorts of heroic things! But more importantly, I'd get free air conditioning! George (sarcastically): That's noble of you, sir. Very noble! Crowd: Kill! Yusuke! Kill! Yusuke! Koto: Jin's been hit hard, taking refuge in the air until his squashed diaphragm can recover! Botan: Listen Miss Koto, why don't you stop the sadist routine and do your job? Koto: Excuse me? Botan: Jin's been out of the ring for half of the fight; did it ever cross your mind to count to ten? Koto: Article 4 -- 'fighters are outside of the ring when any part of their body comes in contact with any solid surface other than the ring itself', and air is not solid. Botan: Ugh! Koto (smugly): Stick to what you're good at, honey, like dying your hair unnatural colors, for instance! [after Jin blocks Yusuke's spirit gun with a wall of wind] Jin (laughing): Don't get all big-eyed! Any attack has to travel through air to get to me, right? I control the air, so you might as well hand 'em over and say, 'Do whatever you want with 'em, Jin'! [laughs] [while the crowd jeers] Keiko: Well, they don't have to act like it's already over! Shizuru (wryly): Yes, I thought the 'Kill Yusuke' chant was a lot better. [while Yusuke charges up the Spirit Wave] Genkai (thinking): He's going to try it! Genkai's signature! Yusuke's handled elements of the move countless time during his training, but I know for a fact that he's never used its full form. With his utter lack of discipline, Genkai was never led to believe that Yusuke was ready for it. She still doesn't believe it, I would even venture to say. The move could definitely compete with Jin... but it could also destroy Yusuke's body from within! Koenma (alarmed): Aah! Holy smokes, that pose! George: It does look curious, sir; is it yoga? Koenma: It's a fighting stance, you oaf! And it happens be for Genkai's greatest specialty! I could never forget that one! George: Ah, you're talking about the Spirit Wave, aren't you, sir? Koenma: Exactamundo! And Yusuke specifically told me he hadn't learned it! [while Jin charges up two whirlwinds]

Jin: Two whirlwinds doesn't mean I hate you; it only means I have respect! [after Yusuke uses his Spirit Wave against Jin] Younger Toguro: So, you really learned her move! Botan: Did you know he could do that? Kuwabara: No way. He never tells me nothing. Think he likes surprising people! [Jin crashes back into the arena, unconscious] Yusuke: Well, it was a damn good fight, Jin! Nice to know I'm not the only freak around here. We'll hang out if you ever wake up! Butajiri uses his influence one last time to tip the odds in Team Masho's favor, by having the committee disqualify Yusuke from the battle against Risho. But before she can give the win to Team Masho, Kuwabara steps in, despite his severe, nearly debilitating injuries. Kuwabara faces an even worse when he finds he is unable to call upon his Spirit Sword. What's worse, Risho unveils his own superpower -- he can telekinetically generate earthquakes and surround himself with rock, turning his body into a living weapon made of stone. Kuwabara decides to burn up his own life energy, attempting to win the round for his team by forcing a draw. But when Yukina appears, Kuwabara has a burst of energy, enabling him to knock Risho out of the ring and win the match. [Kuwabara vs. Risho] WINNER: Kuwabara (URAMESHI) [before the scheduled fight between Risho and Yusuke] Butajiri: Hey! Risho! You better be sure you can handle this! Between the bets and paying people off, I spent my whole damn fortune on you! Risho: It will be taken care of. The boy is exhausted! Butajiri: Convince me! Risho: If you don't trust me, why don't you just use your influence one more time? Butajiri: What? What do you mean? [Risho and Yusuke square off] Koto: Slap on your game hats, boys! This fight decides the round! Botan: Let's see what this meanie looks like? [Risho takes off his mask and cloak] Risho: Sorry to say, Yusuke Urameshi, but you're going to die without ever laying a finger on me. Yusuke: What? Koto: Begin! Yusuke: Alright, I'm kicking your ass out of principle! [Yusuke charges] Announcement: Stop the fight immediately! [Yusuke stumbles and falls] Botan: Stop the fight? What for? Kurama: They're up to something... Koto: Tournament Committee, please clarify; why have you interrupted this fight?

Yusuke: Yeah, and more importantly, why'd you make me look like a fool? Announcement: Upon reviewing the film of the last fight, it has been discovered that Koto delayed her ten count significantly during Yusuke's first ring out! Koto (embarassed): Since when do we pay attention to that? Announcement: Therefore, by complete and unanimous decision-Koto: --they tell me to delay-Announcement: --the fight between Yusuke and Jin has been ruled a doubleloss, and therefore Yusuke is ineligible to fight for the duration of the round. Kurama (thinking): Kuwabara is badly injured, and I've lost a fight. Hiei and the Masked Fighter are ineligible; if Yusuke is ruled out as well, our team is out of the tournament... [after Yusuke is disqualified and Team Urameshi is about to lose] Butajiri: Who needs ninjas? I beat this whole damn team myself!The only hard part now is figuring which of my tricks I liked best: the medical tent capture, or those rulings against Yusuke and Kurama! [Younger Toguro storms in] Butajiri: Huh? Younger Toguro: I don't like the way you play, Butajiri! [Younger Toguro leaves] [Touya approaches the ring] Touya: Risho! This deceit has gone too far! Don't you see we're making a mockery of their sacrifices? Gama willfully gave his life so that we could win, not cheat our way out! Risho: Heh, spare me your romantic drivel, Touya! He fought for the light; now we're going to enjoy it! Touya: But honor--Risho (enraged): Nonsense! [Risho knocks Touya out of the ring] We must always keep our eye on the final goal, Touya; that is why I am the leader, and you are the grunt! [Risho advances threateningly on Koto] Risho: And now, as for you Koto, do you really think it's wise for you to be on the human side in this stadium? Keep the resistance, and I have a feeling you won't be officiating much longer. Koto: What? But this is my show! Yusuke: You know, you seem really anxious, to intimidate everyone but me! What do you think that means? Come on! Hiei: Detective, don't waste your time trying to change their minds. Fight by their meaningless rules and you'll be pulled down with them; there's only one real law of the Dark Tournament: the strongest man prevails! I've retrieved enough energy to rip my way out. Let's show this entire stadium a new definition for victory! Yusuke: They're going to kill us anyway, so why don't we take on every damn freak til no one's left? Sounds good to me; I'm already about to go off! [Ruka screams as Hiei begins forcing his way through the forcefield]

Koto: Ohh, I absolutely hate to see such a good competitor go out of the games without a chance to inflict pain on someone, but... due to Yusuke's ineligibility, and as there are no other members on his team available to fight, and as Team Masho still has a competitor, by forfeit, the winner of the round is-Kuwabara: Wait right there! We still got one more fighter on our team! [after Kuwabara collapses while trying to enter the ring] Yusuke: See? You're in no shape! Kuwabara: I'm going, Urameshi! Unless you want to kill me yourself! I know these guys are cheating us, I know you're angry, and heck, I know what happens if we lose. But if you and Hiei go on some tirade destroying people until you get your way, you'll be just like them. Let's win this thing clean... Yusuke (realizing): ...like men. [Yukina spots the injured Kuwabara on the screen outside the arena] Yukina: Oh no, it's Kazuma! Keiko: He's not in the ring, is he? Botan: Oh, I forgot to tell you: a crummy ruling's put Yusuke out of the picture and Kuwabara has gone in for him so they wouldn't forfeit! Now it's just Risho and him and he's all injured and I don't know how he's going to survive! Koto: What fantastic will! The visibly hammered fighter has leapt into the ring, preventing his team's elimination! But can this haggard boy possibly hope to compete against Team Masho's leader? Kuwabara: We men go down with honor! Koto: Fighters, please report to the center! Kuwabara: Right! [Kuwabara staggers forward, clearly in horrific pain] Kurama: It's dismal, but at least it'll buy us time to consider our options... Yusuke: He's killing himself! Kuwabara (thinking): It's not often a guy gets a chance like this. Maybe they'll name a city block after me... Risho (smugly): Your heroics are quite misplaced; all you'll win is a grave. [Kuwabara's Spirit Sword evaporates] Kuwabara: Why can't I use my Spirit Sword any more? Risho: The naivete of youth -- I thought you would have figured it out by now! [Risho hits him] Do you really think a normal human could have sustained the injuries you have? Your body's been using your spirit energy to keep you alive... and now you have nothing left! [Risho knocks Kuwabara down] [while watching Risho defeat Kuwabara] Butajiri: Ten more seconds and the whole story changes! [Sakyo and Toguro enter] Sakyo: Butajiri. Butajiri: Ah, the Wonder Couple! Just the two people I want to see! Welcome to my 'top of the world' inaugural celebration! Thanks to my work, our mutual enemy's screwed and I'm about to be filthy rich! [chuckles]

Sakyo: You were wrong about Tarukane. Yusuke wasn't responsible for his death. You understand, that little eyesore would have interfered with my plans... [Toguro approaches Butajiri] ...and my dear friend Toguro knows that doesn't happen. Only had to flick his wrist for that head to pop right off. Sorry to inform you so late! [Toguro flicks Butajiri's head, and it bursts, killing Butajiri] Sakyo: I tell you, Toguro: you are so creative with those deaths! Now we just have to hope Yusuke's team can survive this mess! Younger Toguro: If not, then he wasn't worth me fighting in the first place. Risho: I have no more time to nurse your heroics! I've got a prize to take! Kuwabara (disgusted): A real man earns what he wants! [Risho leaps out of the ring] Risho: Fine, Kuwabara! You'll see I'm quite capable of that! [Risho turns, holding out his index finger] Koto: Risho has willfully stepped out of the ring! What could he be planning? Koenma (nervously): I don't like the way he holds that finger... Risho: Each Shinobi is a master of some skilled art. Weren't you wondering what mine would be? [an earthquake rips through the stadium, sending rocks flying through the air and forming an armor of clay around Risho's body] Kuwabara (alarmed): No, not really! [Kuwabara is struggling to his feet after Risho's attack] Koto: That second Meteor attack was even stronger than the first. Kuwabara's whole body is doing the wiggle dance, and yet he still tries to get up! Risho (horrified): Why? Why don't you quit? [Kuwabara chuckles] Kuwabara: You dummy. Guess you haven't checked the score for this round lately. We've got four wins and you've got two, and the first team to five advances! Urameshi and Kurama gave it all for us and now I still have a way to bring it home for 'em! Hiei: He's going... to kill himself! Koenma: See ya, Kuwabara, you always were my favorite! George: I don't follow what this option is, sir! I mean, I don't even see how he's still standing! Koenma: Hmm, the boy is using the same strategy Yusuke did in a previous case. Know what I mean? When he defeated the last of those Saint Beasts -Suzaku! Yusuke was drained of his spirit energy, so he tapped into his life energy, a move that would have killed him, if Kuwabara hadn't donated some of his own life to save him! George: But everyone still has to fight this time; who's going to save Kuwabara? Koenma (sadly): That's right, blue ogre; I'm afraid this would be a sacrifice of a more permanent kind... Risho: I know what you're doing; using your life energy will only delay this. You're still going to die. Kuwabara: No joke, moron. If this fight ends in a draw, my team wins and the

rest of my guys get to live! (thinking) Hiei, you little punk. You always said mean stuff to me, but I know underneath all that junk, you're a good guy; Kurama, you taught me a lot with the things you said. There's nobody more caring than you; Mummy Fighter... Person. You saved those guys from Dr. Ichigaki and that means a lot. You didn't say much, but somehow I really feel like I know you. And Urameshi... well... (aloud, to Yusuke) Just take care of the rest of this, okay? [Risho and Kuwabara slam into each other, and memories of Yukina appear] Kuwabara (thinking): Wait a second... Yukina? Why am I thinking of her now? Must be my life flashing before me. Sorry, my love. I wanted to protect you always... Yukina: Kazuma! Kuwabara: That's weird! I just thought I... [Kuwabara sees Yukina] (aloud) Hey, wait, she's here! Risho (confused): What on Earth are you babbling about? Kuwabara: I'm not babbling! She's my girlfriend! [Kuwabara hurls Risho outside of the arena] Kuwabara: Hey, my spirit energy's coming back! I think we all know what this means! Risho: I'll try my Meteor attack this time! [Risho flies towards Kuwabara like a rocket] Kuwabara: Spirit Sword! Risho (alarmed): What the--? Kuwabara: Eat my energy! [Kuwabara slashes Risho] Koto: They're both out of the ring so I'll start the count... Kuwabara: You're just a no-good cheater, Risho! So get out of my ring! [Kuwabara knocks Risho out of the ring] Risho (dazed): But... I really... like... this island! [Risho faints] --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Team Profile - Team Uraotogi "We will be famous, but we're going to need more than two minutes of exposure to get that way!" --Shishiwakamaru Team Uraotogi was designed and owned by its sponsor and team captain, Suzuka. Four of its members, Makintaro, Kuromomotaro, Uraurashima, and Shishiwakamaru are low-class demons who adopted identities derived from popular Japanese children's stories given a subversive demonic twist. Team Uraotogi's fighting style relies heavily on techniques and arsenals, all invented by their owner. Suzuka, fighting under the pseudonym of Onji, is using his team

and the Dark Tournament itself as a stepping stone to his own personal glory. Team Urameshi vs. Team Uraotogi [Urameshi - 5 wins | Uraotogi - 2 wins] With Genkai and Yusuke gone off on their own to undergo secret training, Kurama, Hiei, and Kuwabara will face Team Uraotogi on their own. [upon only seeing Hiei, Kurama, and Kuwabara] George: Koenma, sir, Yusuke still hasn't returned to the team! Koenma: That's to be expected. He's undergoing Genkai's ultimate test. It's not like it's going to be another afternoon affair... George: But what should they do? Until Yusuke and Genkai return, they'll be severely outnumbered. In the semifinals, no less! Koenma: Oh, blast it, Ogre, they'll just have to deal! I'm much more concerned as to whether Yusuke'll come back at all! Makintaro and Hiei are chosen for the first fight via dice roll. Makintaro has the power to transform his limbs into melee weapons, which turns out to be of no consequence due to Hiei's tremendous speed. In one movement, Hiei slices off Makintaro's arm so quickly that even Makintaro doesn't notice. Hiei turns to leave the ring, but Makintaro continues the fight by attacking from behind. He manages to slash at Hiei's robe, but Hiei is so fast that, in a blink of an eye, he appears above Makintaro's head and kills him with a brutal downward thrust through the top of Makintaro's skull. [Hiei vs. Makintaro] WINNER: Hiei (URAMESHI) [after the dice roll] Kuwabara: Looks like you got Makintaro, Hiei. Hiei: Your desperate plan has backfired. Makintaro: Heh! You talk way too big, little man! Juri: Alright, fans. It's the first match of the semifinals: Hiei vs. the big man, Makintaro! [pause] Begin! [Hiei brandishes his sword; Makintaro sees droplets of blood on the ground around Hiei] Kurama: That's very impressive... Makintaro (smugly): What's wrong? Did we have a little accident in our trousers? Hiei: Your whole nervous system... it leaves much to be desired. Makintaro: What are you talking about? 'My nervous system'? Come on, just gimme your best shot! Hiei: Fool. I already have. [Hiei holds up Makintaro's severed arm, which Hiei has sliced off] Koenma (bewildered): Did you see that? George: Nope, not at all.

[Hiei walks away] Makintaro (enraged): Hey, where're you going? I'm not done with you! [Hiei keeps walking] Makintaro: I said 'I'm not done with you yet'! [Makintaro grows his severed arm out into a massive axe] Axe Blade Fist! [Makintaro charges at Hiei, and apparently slices right through him] Makintaro: Gotcha! [Hiei's cloak falls away; Makintaro looks up to see Hiei on his back] Hiei: Your eyes are rather slow. Too bad. [Hiei plunges his sword through Makintaro's skull, killing him] George: What about that one? Did you see him dodge, sir? Koenma: Well, of course! [pause] Aw, who am I kidding? He's fast! George: I need some eye drops! Kuro Momotaro is scheduled to face off against Hiei. The gum-chewing Kuro reveals his powers: he can memorize the techniques of his opponents, making him completely invulnerable to them, and use his Steaming Spheres (resembling peaches) to don powerful armors (beginning with the powerful Armor of the Ape) to use in combat. He goads Hiei into using the Darkness Flame technique again, but Hiei modifies it into a less-lifethreatening technique -- the Fist of the Mortal Flame -- which has little effect on Kuro and enables him to use a 2nd Steaming Sphere to done his Armor of the Phoenix. Even though Kuro has Hiei on the ropes with his 2nd armor, he decides to break a third sphere -- donning the Armor of the Wolf], and is about to finish off Hiei when Hiei destroys him with a modified version of his best technique, called the Sword of the Darkness Flame. [Hiei vs. Kuro Momotaro] WINNER: Hiei (URAMESHI) Kuro (about Hiei): Onji, you positive he won't pull out that attack he used to wipe out Zeru? Onji: Absolutely no chance of it. Even if he were stupid enough to try, he couldn't go through with it; his arm still hasn't recovered from the last time he unleashed the Dragon of the Darkness Flame... Onji: Hiei puts on a brave front, even though he's hurt. Sure, he's no pushover, but once your body has done its little specialty, we'll be well on our way to fighting Toguro. Just be sure you hold him off until your body can memorize his special attacks. That's how you'll defeat him! Kuro: You're wasting your breath. I'm going to chew him up, spit him out, and stick him under a desk! Kuro (Hiei): If I were you, little man, I wouldn't let that last victory go to my head. He may have been the biggest on our team, but he was also the weakest. Here, let me get him off your sword. [Kuro pulls Hiei's sword out of Makintaro's body, then kicks the body out of the ring] Kuwabara (disgusted): Hey, that's your teammate! Kuro: I think you'll find that I'm just a tad tougher than Makintaro was. [Kuro

licks Hiei's sword] Yeah, sweet sword! Hiei: Hate to say, but that's hardly hygienic. You have no idea how many creatures that sword has cut through. Kuro: Oh, I'm sure. Lemme add one more! [Kuro slices through his own arm] Koenma (alarmed): D-did he just forfeit the match? Kuro: Oh, yeah, that's it! It hurts so good! Oh, oh yeah, now we're talking! Kuwabara: These guys are making it a little easy for us to beat 'em! Koto: This is definitely one of the more unconventional moves! Kuro: Sharp! Not that'll do you any good now! [Kuro holds up a steaming sphere and cracks it] This is the Steaming Sphere that seals your fate! Kuwabara:I don't know what that is, but he doesn't make it sound very good... [Kuro breathes in the steam] Kuwabara: Now what is that crackpot doing? [not only are Kuro's injuries healed, fur sprouts all over his body, making him look like an armored ape] Kuro: Beast Armor, Armor of the Ape! What do you think, Hiei? [after Kuro easily deflects Hiei's sword attack] Kuro: Guess you're probably wondering how I was able to fend off your attack so easily! Simple, really: my body has this neat trick where it remembers the pain of my opponent's attack! All I have to do get immunity is expose myself to a small dose of my enemy's offense -- like getting a flu shot. Once my body knows what attack to look for, then it's time for a good old steaming sphere! Kuwabara: What does that do? Kuro: Think of it as a catalyst for my Beast Armor, which makes me invincible to my opponent's attack... and much more handsome to boot! Kuwabara: But... that's not fair! There's no way Hiei can beat someone invincible! Kuro: Come on, what're you waiting for? Where's your famous Dark Dragon crap? Hiei: You want it? Kuro: As soon as my body memorizes your most powerful attacks, I can squash you in the palm of my hand! [Hiei begins charging an attack] Kuwabara: You show 'em, Hiei! His memory's not so sharp, after all! Obviously he's forgotten what that attack did to the last guy! Kurama: Not just him. The Flame took its toll on Hiei. Kuwabara: What? Kurama: To summon the Dragon, Hiei must use his own spirit energy as bait to lure it from the pits of Spirit World. His technique only works if he can emit a tremendous amount of energy for a prolonged period. Suzuka (as Onji, chuckling): Yes, you are correct. Kurama: Hiei was in peak condition when he used the Darkness Flame against Zeru. And even that wasn't enough power for him to control it; the beast nearly took the hook along with the bait! Kuwabara (alarmed): Huh? Kurama: Who knows how he will fare now, operating with little over half his energy.

Kuwabara: That's 'half'? You're telling me he's making that much energy with only half his usual strength? Kurama: Regardless, he doesn't have enough energy to release it. At Hiei's present levels, the Dragon will devour our friend in his entirety! Suzuka: He's right about that, but the truth of the matter is that Hiei doesn't have much of an option! Without such a technique, Kuro won't get a scratch! Hiei (attacking): Fist of the Mortal Flame! [Hiei fires a blast of black flames at Kuro Momotaro] Kuwabara: Hold on, that doesn't look like the Dragon! Kurama: It's a related flame, but of the human world. [after the attack ends] Hiei: I decided, why waste the flame of the underworld on the likes of you when the more mundane one of the human world would suffice? [after donning the Armor of the Phoenix] Kuro: Your little fist technique is completely useless against me, now that I'm protected by the 2nd beast, the Armor of the Phoenix! Juri: This competitor can't seem to stay in one body for more than a few minutes! Kuro: You convinced, yet? There's nothing you can do to beat me. You might as well stay on the ground and think of a nice way to beg! Hiei: Never! You'll have to rip my limbs off to keep me down! Kurama: Shouldn't give him any more suggestions, Hiei... Kuwabara: Yeah, that's a good point! Suzuka (as Onji): This match is ours. Now Kuro immune to both Hiei's sword and his Fists of the Mortal Flame. Hiei is far too weak now to deal with the Dragon Flame. It still bothers me, though; no fighter should ever have to use more than one steaming sphere on one opponent. Shishi: Yes, this Hiei character must be a pretty decent fighter to scare Kuro into using two in one fight. Suzuka: I'd say more than decent. Make no mistake, this is