InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Not the Only One ❯ Bad timing ( Chapter 33 )

It's 10:30 in Scotland, so I just managed to update before June ended. Yass.

Going to Tenerife on friday, woohoo!

 

R.I.P MJ. You Rock My World.

 

The one and only -know the lingo!-

Rekai- Spirit World

Ningenkai- human world

Ningen- human

Makai- Demon world (youkai)

Kuso- Damn

Kami- God

Nani- what

Gomen- Sorry

Sumimasen- Also sorry, more formal

Hai- yes

Arigato- thanks

Arigato gozimasu- than you very much

Ensatsu Rengoku Shou- Fire killing purgatory scorching attack

 

Thanks to everyone who wished me luck on my exams! It must have worked, because I passed, getting 2nd class for all my subjects. Arigato, minna!

 

Chapter 32

Bad timing

 

Kagome felt her heart miss a beat as she walked over to the scentless petal plant. The flowers, which had been so white and pure, were black as though burned. The leaves, usually shiny and full of health, were crumpled and dry.

The miko sat down at her desk with a thump, not even noticing when the towel that had been wrapped around her wet hair fell to the ground. What did Inuyasha say? “There's a lot of plants been acting really strange...lots of flowers have died, but it's the middle of summer”.

“No...” Kagome jumped up, changing quickly into her discarded clothes and shoving her hair back into a bun. It can't be...Yoko...he can't be dead!

 

 

The miko reached the well house in record time, but she faltered at the wooden doors. It had been so long since she had been in the past. Inuyasha had been adamant that she wasn't allowed to return. What if whatever was happening- Yoko had got involved?

Inuyasha is trying to protect me; I know better now that if I charge into a situation I'll only make it worse. If I can't go to the past, I'll go to Kurama, he'll know what is going on!

 

 

In Kurama's flat, the phone rang out, echoing in the empty room. The answer machine clicked on, and Kagome's voice filled the apartment. “Kurama! Kurama, if you're there, please pick up! I think something's happened...something in the past with Yoko! Call me when you get this!”

 

 

Kurama was in fact on the roof of his apartment, with Hiei. The hybrid youkai had been visiting Yukina at Genkai's temple, and had stopped off at the kitsune's for a quick battle before his return to the Makai.

“I'm sick of inexperienced fighters,” Hiei told Kurama, as he evaded the avatar's whip. The green vine smashed off the concrete with a crash, causing a crack to form.

Luckily there's no one living in the attics! Kurama thought, before back flipping to avoid Hiei's katana.

“Everyone in the Makai is either training for the next Dark tournament, and so unwilling to give away their new moves, or is as skilled as that oaf Kuwabara.”

Kurama smiled, not because he had finally landed a hit on the small youkai with his whip, but because he could see Hiei's restlessness.

“Doesn't Mukuro like the odd fight?” Kurama asked, watching as Hiei removed his black cloak. Oh, the hybrid's getting serious!

“She's too busy in state affairs,” Hiei fumed, “Ever since the latest uprising, everyone is focused on peace. Peace! In the Makai! I may as well move here permanently, at least most humans still engage in wars every now and then.”

“My home is always open to you, Hiei.” Kurama said gently, knowing that no matter what he said, Hiei would always return to the Makai.

“Hn.” Hiei's thanks was a slash to the kitsune's arm, which he just managed to block by ducking and diving.

Kurama and Hiei were just gaining back their breath when the kitsune suddenly grinned.

“Oh, you're lucky Hiei! We're in the perfect spot to see the selenelion tonight!”

“What the hell is that, kitsune?” Hiei asked, looking none too happy.

“It's quite rare actually; we will be able to see the sun and the eclipsed moon at the same time, in opposite points of the sky. It's nearly sunset, look! You can see the sun over there in the east, and the faint outline of the moon in the west. When the the sky darkens, it will be more apparent.”

Hiei did not look too pleased at Kurama's educational lesson; in fact, his knuckles gripped at his side.

“'Kuso!” He swore, his ruby eyes darting from one end of the apartment roof top to the other, “Kurama, quick, you have to knock me out!”

“Nani?” Kurama laughed, looking at his friend, “What's wrong, some youkai superstition?”

“Kurama!” Hiei suddenly fell to his knees, his palms pressing on the concrete.

“Tomorrow is my full fire day, but this will no doubt shift things...I felt the urge to fight, but I thought it was just because we hadn't in so long...”

Kurama drew closer to his friend, noticing with alarm the sudden flare of Hiei's youki.

“If you don't knock me out, I'll obliterate this apartment block,” Hiei wheezed, the Jagan flashing threateningly under his bandages. “In the Makai, I go through forests easily during my full fire...”

Hiei broke off, squeezing his eyes shut. The little youkai rarely showed when he was suffering, and the look of pain on his face was one the avatar had never before witnessed.

“Hiei!” Kurama blinked at this information, before making a decision. He jumped up, aiming to chop Hiei between the shoulders and knock him out, but the hybrid suddenly screamed, and the concrete between his fingers crumbled to dust. Purple eyes erupted all over Hiei's skin like sores, and Kurama cursed, dodging attack after attack of black fire as Hiei cackled. His full fire day had began early, initiated by the sun and the eclipsed moon in the sky.

 

Kagome gave up calling Kurama after the third time, and quickly wheeled her pink bicycle from the side of the house. I have to make sure Yoko is okay; I'll go out of my mind if I don't find out!

Willing her strength, Kagome began to pedal to Kurama's apartment, as the sun began to set.

Please be at home, Kurama-kun!

 

 

Hiei spat at the avatar, unable to recognise his friend. He hadn't quite mutated to his green, full dark youkai form, and Kurama was glad. He hadn't been training as much recently, and he was perspiring heavily. Soon Hiei would get bored and blow up the apartment block, if not the city.

Yoko! What do I do?

Pin him down. We can use the snowdrop serum to bring him back around, and knock him out. Then we'll need to get him back to the Makai, or we're looking at some time in the Reikai prison!

Easier said than done!

Kurama circled Hiei, wishing they had decided to fight in a forest or park- the apartment's concrete structure was very unyielding to his element. Kurama had to keep airborne, knowing that if Hiei's fire hit the apartment block, questions would start being asked by the residents.

How can I pin him down if I can't even touch the ground?

Kurama felt sweat gather under his hair. If this was a normal opponent, he would be aiming to kill. But his was Hiei, his best friend, his comrade and team member.

The avatar watched in horror as Hiei began to fiddle with the bandages on his arm.

“No, Hiei! Are you crazy?” Kurama screamed. If he releases the dragon, we're all done for!

The avatar gritted his teeth. I've got to fight seriously now...

“Hiei!” Kurama took three roses from his hair. If he aimed for the pressure points, he knew he could temporarily stun the hybrid. Forgive me, Hiei. But it's not just your life that's in my hands...

 

 

Kagome pedalled as fast as her legs would allow her, her wet hair causing her to feel chilled all over. Though as the miko sped through the traffic, ignoring the beeping of horns, she knew her cold heart had nothing to do with wet hair.

 

 

Kurama panted hard as he straddled the thrashing hybrid. He managed to lock Hiei's arms and legs together with his vines, but the little youkai was putting up a fight. Kurama was eternally glad he hadn't removed the bandage covering the Jagan; Kurama glanced at the angry pulsing light and knew he would be dead by now otherwise.

Okay, Yoko, what now?

The snowdrop serum. Saliva, snowdrop petals and root, and ginger.

Of course, it wouldn't be an easy serum...

Kurama began to take the required seeds out his hair, when Hiei sunk his teeth into his arm.

“Hiei, for Kami's sake!” Kurama gasped, ordering the vines to wrap around the hybrid's mouth.

“If I get an infection, I really will kill you!”

Although Hiei's body continued to vibrate with anger under the kitsune, the lack of oxygen seemed to calm him somewhat. Kurama began to crush to snow drop petals and root into his mouth, wincing at the taste. You better appreciate this, Hiei...

Next, he extracted the fleshy part of the ginger, glad that his abilities had grown in the last few months that he could summon any plant, including fruit and vegetables, at will.

You'll have to give him it mouth to mouth, Kurama. I'd hurry if I were you, he seems to be getting a second wind...

“'Kuso!” Kurama muttered through mouthful of serum. Hiei had successful ripped apart the vines that bound his hands, so the kitsune had to wrestle with him, eventually subduing him long enough to bring his mouth to Hiei's. How do I get into these situations?

Closing his eyes so he didn't have to see Hiei's ruby orbs glaring at him, Kurama pressed his lips against the hybrid's. In order to get Hiei to open his mouth, Kurama pinched his friend's nose, knowing that despite the fact he was doing a good deed, Hiei was going to try and rip his tongue out as soon as he returned to normal.

Hiei finally opened his lips with a gasp for air, and Kurama used his tongue to force the ingredients into the swordsman's mouth. The hybrid reacted badly, once again freeing himself of his bonds and using his newly elongated claws to scratch through the kitsune's fighting robe, drawing deep gashes in his back. Kurama nearly pulled away to shout with the pain, but he held onto Hiei's head, forcing the little youkai to swallow the serum, or choke to death.

 

 

Kagome didn't bothered chaining her bicycle to the fence outside Kurama's apartment, but let it drop with a clang, the wheels spinning. She pounded up the many stairs, although there was a stitch in her side that was making her feel sick.

“Kurama-kun! Kurama-kun!”

Kagome pounded the door and rang the bell, but there was no answer. Frustrated, the miko tried to open the door, but it was locked. Standing in the hall, sweating and red faced, Kagome had to get to grips with the fact that Kurama wasn't in his apartment- she wasn't going to get answers any time soon. The miko sat down on the ground, trying to get her breathing back to normal, tears welling in eyes.

How can I contact Kurama? She touched the rose pendant, wondering where he was and if he could feel her anguish. The miko closed her eyes, focusing hard, trying to find the avatar's ki...after a few seconds, her eyes flashed open. The roof! He told me he sometimes goes there to train, because no one can see him...

So frantic was Kagome's run, she hadn't noticed the rose pendant had slipped out of her blouse, and lay on top of the material, acting as a barrier to her skin.

 

 

Kagome ran up the stairs, feeling as though her lungs were about to come up through her throat, her breathing laboured. Her feet and legs were sore from cycling, and she wanted nothing more than to run into Kurama's embrace and have him tell her that everything was fine.

The miko finally reached the last stair well, glad that no one was around to question her. She noticed bits of plaster and concrete had crumbled around the door, and she coughed as dust caught in her throat.

Kagome pushed open the heavy fire exit door, knowing that Kurama probably disabled the alarm the first day he arrived. Fanning her hand in front of her face to clear the dust, Kagome was perplexed by the smell of something like burning rubber and charcoal. She stepped out onto the rooftop, noticing how dark the sky had become, and saw that two figures were in the distance. Kurama seemed to be leaning over someone- Hiei- and the miko realised they must have been training together.

 

 

Hiei must be injured...she thought, watching her step at the odd craters in the concrete as she neared the two. As she drew closer, Kagome realised, surprised, that vines were wrapped around Hiei's arms and legs, binding him to the ground.

What is Kurama doing? Are they still play fighting?

Kagome hid behind a large, square rubbish tip, intrigued. She watched in horror as Kurama closed his eyes, and pressed his lips against Hiei's.

N-Nani??

Kagome had to cover her mouth to stop herself from crying out. She waited for the joke, or the punchline, or the trick they were playing. But the kitsune continued to kiss Hiei, his hands clutching the hybrid's head for dear life. He was straddling the youkai, who broke from his bindings to rip the clothing from the kitsune's back. Kurama seemed to shudder in pleasure, and gripped the little's youkai's head harder, as blood soaked through his yellow fighting robe.

Kagome felt a sweeping sensation of deja vu- she had thought nothing could ever compare to watching Inuyasha pull Kikyo into his arms and kiss her passionately. As the miko turned and fled, running down the stairs so fast she felt as if she was flying, she felt another piece of her heart break and shatter.

 

 

Kurama had finally forced the remedy down Hiei's throat, and only relinquished the kiss when he found the youaki's mouth to be empty. The swordsman still thrashed and growled beneath him, but Kurama knew he was out of the danger zone. Still, dread and anxiety swirled in his stomach, and the kitsune frowned. A sudden wave of sadness crashed over him, unlike anything he had ever felt before, and his heart beat fast in his chest. A sheen of cold sweat glazed his skin.

What's happening, Yoko? A side effect?

Kurama tried to clear his senses to calm himself, however he gave a start as he caught a scent in the wind. It was unmistakable- that of lily. The kitsune's eyes widened in horror, and as he concentrated, he felt the ki of Kagome exit the apartment block.

Kami-sama! Was she here? I didn't sense her at all!

Kurama's instinct was to get up and run after her, but he knew he couldn't leave Hiei in this condition. He needed to make sure his friend got safely to the Makai, before the remedy wore off, and he caused lasting destruction in the Ningenkai.

She'll understand...once I explain everything to her! I'll go to her as soon as I can!

Kurama was so wrapped in his thoughts he didn't notice how quiet the silver kitsune was.

 

 

The avatar didn't need to knock Hiei out, as the hybrid succumbed to unconsciousness after digesting the snowdrop serum. Kurama had just lifted the youkai over his shoulder, planning to run like the wind to the Makai, when there was a 'pop!' and Botan appeared.

“Oh, what's happening here?” the very ungrim reaper exclaimed, bobbing around on her oar. “No time to explain Botan, I need to get Hiei to the Makai. In fact, excellent timing, could you open a portal to the Makai for us?”

“Oh, Kurama! Koenma sent me, you're needed in the Rekai straight away, there's been an uprising of some earth empowered youkai, and Koenma needs your expertise to sort them out!”

Kurama sighed, adjusting Hiei in his arms.

“Well, like I said, 'excellent timing'!” the kitsune murmured under his breath, “ In that case, can you take Hiei to the Makai for me? Then afterwards, I need you to find Kagome and give her a message...”

“Kagome?” Botan raised her eyebrows.

“It's urgent, Botan...” Kurama winced, the wounds Hiei inflicted on his back beginning to smart. “Just find her, tell her that I'm sorry and I will come and find her as soon as possible!”

“S-sure...” Botan nodded, before jumping from her oar and using it to open a vortex in the air. She looked warily at Hiei, not thrilled at the thought of being alone in his company. The hybrid's chest was covered in cuts and wounds from Kurama's vines, and though unconscious, his forehead was creased.

Kurama took one last look at Hiei, before shaking his head and stepping into the vortex, cursing Konema and his timing under his breath.

 

 

Botan was opening a vortex to the Makai when Hiei roused. She was actually glad, knowing she couldn't have very well flung the youkai unconscious into that world- he would no doubt have been killed in seconds.

“Hello, Hiei,” Botan said, her voice a little nervous.

“Where's the kitsune?” Hiei demanded, sounding hoarse and irritated.

“Ano...Kurama had to go to Rekai, on Koenma's orders. But he told me to take you to Makai...”

Botan motioned to the appearing vortex with a slightly shaking hand. Hiei glared at Botan, and in turn to the vortex. He was about to walk through, when he paused.

“Did Kurama say anything else?”

“Eh? Well, just that I had to deliver a message to Kagome- it's urgent apparently, though Koenma's going to have my head, I'm supposed to be on a mission right now...”

“What was the message?” Hiei asked, grimacing at the onna's incessant chattering.

“'Tell her that I'm sorry and I will come and find her as soon as possible!'” Botan imitated, before shrugging, “Honestly, if he's had a lover's tiff, I don't see why I have to...”

Hiei inhaled sharply, the lily scent still on the wind. Hiei had a sinking feeling he owed his partner big time. Due to Kurama, Hiei wasn't going to have to spent another stint in the Rekai prison.

“I'll deliver the message,” Hiei said, bringing Botan's rant to a standstill.

“Ano...are you sure? Kurama said...”

But Hiei had already jumped to the edge of the rooftop, and bounded into the approaching night.

 

When Hiei arrived at the shrine, the sky had turned a deep velvet blue. The shrine was an uncomfortable place for youkai to be- the pureness of the place seeped into one's soul.

Yukina would like it here...

As soon as Hiei touched down on the grounds, he felt the miko's aura. She was meditating underneath the large tree, one he assumed to be sacred due to the charms adorning it. The last time he had been here, the night of his full ice time, he had been intending to kill Kagome. In normal circumstances, he would not have felt so inclined, but the unbalancing of his conflicting elements always made him act more rash than usual.

However, that night, as he had waited for the miko to sleep, he had sat in this tree for a long time. The tree had much history, and its secrets were locked in the leaves, which sang when the wind shook them. Hiei, whom had always had an affinity for trees, had stayed with the Goshinbuku for many hours, as he read of its past- and in turn, Kagome's past.

As it was, he realised the miko was not as weak and insignificant as he had thought, the first time he had laid eyes on her. The girl had a lot of interesting history.

It was for this reason Hiei did not kill Kagome.

It was also for this reason, and the fact the he owed Kurama, that Hiei now approached the meditating miko.

 

 

Hiei knew Kagome felt his ki as he approached, and she raised a barrier around her mind. It was weak, but stubborn- he could tell it was a skill she had only recently acquired. He was used to breaking mind barriers- the Jagan relished it- but he had no need for such skill tonight.

“Miko.” Hiei called out. Kagome's face appeared calm, as she sat cross legged, her hands resting on her knees, the way Miroku had taught her, palms up, fingers slightly curled. But on hearing Hiei's voice, creases appeared on her brow.

“Be gone, youkai. I have nothing to say to you.”

Hiei raised his eyebrows at the formal and archaic language. The girl had clearly gone into miko-mode.

“You will want to hear what I have to say.”

Kagome sighed, opening her eyes. They were black, and it was clear she was struggling with inner emotional turmoil. She was surprised to see the hybrid shirtless- he bore many fresh wounds, but didn't seem troubled by this. The image of the kiss flashed back to the miko, and she felt sick. Yoko had bound her with vines too- was this something the kitsune always did when he was attracted to someone? Kagome fought to dismiss the hurt she felt, but Hiei detected it easily.

“There had been a misunderstanding.” Hiei told her.

“You could at least try to be original,” Kagome retorted, trying to keep her voice level,

“I know what I saw. You don't have to justify it, Hiei. Kurama and I are not in a relationship- he is free to have as many lovers as he chooses.”

“Kurama and I are not lovers,” Hiei replied, his ruby eyes angry, “I have a lover, a female one at that, back in the Makai. What you saw was Kurama giving me a remedy mouth to mouth, because I was transforming into my darker self. If he had not stopped me, there would have been chaos.”

Kagome sat still, but her voice was unwavering when she replied, “Well, that is original at least.”

Hiei tried to move forward, but Kagome held up her palms.

“Don't come any closer. I'm in a volatile position myself, and I will blast you to the Rekai.”

Hiei raised his eyebrow, highly doubting that the miko would be able to touch him in her current state.

“I'm coming closer so I can transmit the memory of what happened to you, so you understand.”

“Don't come any closer!” Kagome gasped, and her self control extinguished. Purple purifying power surged from her palms towards the hybrid youkai, and unable to move from its magnetic force, Hiei summoned up the quickest barrier he could, that of black fire. The two forces battled it out, and Kagome slumped forwards, having to support herself by her palms on the ground. She was trembling, exhausted from the emotions of the day. She heard a curse, and looked up, shocked to see that Hiei had not dodged or jumped out of the way of her power. He was battling with his own fire, and she saw the shock in his crimson eyes as there was a clean, tinkling noise, and the black fire was evaporated. Hiei was struck by the purification for only a second, but it was enough to bring him to his knees.

“Hiei?” Kagome ventured forward on her hands and knees, trembling. She had only meant to get the youkai away- not cause him direct harm.

Hiei was shuddering, his skin turning a green tinge, and crescent like scars began to appear all over his body. The little youkai had been so bound with vines earlier that the miko had seen this side of Hiei, and it came a a shock. Kagome felt her heart clench in fear when she saw these scars blink, revealing that they were in fact eyes, all which focused on her alone.

“Bad move, miko...” Hiei hissed, his voice darker and deeper than his own usual tone. Kagome swallowed, getting unsteadily to her feet. The hybrid youkai raised his head to the sky and howled, and the youki around him sparked and continued to rise in power.

“Oh no...” Kagome gasped. The miko had unknowingly countered Kurama's remedy, and had reverted Hiei into the throes of his full fire day. He grinned and clicked his claws, and the miko knew she had ran out of luck.

 

Hiei cocked his head at Kagome, and his darkest demon side considered her an unworthy opponent. “Miko scum!” He growled lowly, the sound making the hairs on Kagome's skin stand on end, and she began to involuntarily shake. Hiei raised one green hand, his claws black and elongated. His hair, which usually defied gravity, was now quiffed into two points, and his eyes were mean and yellow, like a wild cat.

Kagome had no defence. The previous blast of her powers had drained her, and had been caused by emotional outburst. She knew she couldn't summon that sort of power again- and besides, Hiei was now more powerful than he had been previously. Kagome took one step backwards, planning to make a run to the well house, when Hiei laughed cruelly. Warm air whipped around the miko and the youkai, before there was a horrible noise, like a fist colliding with a sheet of iron.

“Ensatsu Rengoku Shou!”

 

The miko screamed, throwing her hands over her head as the multiple attacks of black fire screeched towards her, obliterating everything in its path. The heat from it was intolerable, and Kagome could feel blisters erupting on her skin even before the fire hit. She screamed as the flames consumed her, and she was thrown into into the air with the sheer strength of the blast, writhing and consorting in agony. The miko could feel her fading powers inwardly battling with the flames, but it was a losing battle.

Just when Kagome thought the torture was going to kill her, she heard someone scream her name. Suddenly, she felt strong arms wrap around her. She was cocooned by the arms, held against an equally strong chest, and a familiar scent hit her as the wall of heat lessened a little.

“Inu...yasha?” Kagome breathed, before coughing, as her lungs seemed full of fire. The hanyou was protecting her with the robe of the fire rat, his head bowed on top of hers, his fangs gritted in the pain of the fire he had became engulfed in. Kagome cried in his arms, and as the black fire finally subsided, battling with Inuyasha's ki, he broke away from her, holding her gently. Her clothes had been mainly destroyed due to the intense heat, and were barely holding together. Her skin was blackened and red in patches, where she was badly burned.

“Kagome!” Inuyasha grimaced. This was the second time her had nearly lost her to a fire. The hanyou could detect the youkai who had attacked Kagome, hiding in the shadows. He carried the miko carefully over the to Goshinbuku, placing her in the fenced enclosing. The tree radiated such a purity that he knew the youkai would not be able to touch her there. But just in case, Inuyasha removed his haori, which luckily was still in one piece, and wrapped it around the miko.

“Wait for me, Kagome. I'll be back soon.”

The miko couldn't even nod, the intense pain she was feeling muffling all words. After discovering Hiei and Kurama earlier on the rooftop, she had been so deeply chilled, it felt as though her heart had been encased in ice. She thought she would never feel warm again. But now she was burning, her skin and heart on fire, and it was killing her. Kagome was sure she would die.

“Right, you bastard, show yourself! I'm gonna make you wish you were never born!”

There was a flicker, and the green and many eyed youkai appeared in front of Inuyasha, smirking.

“She is done for,” Hiei bared his fangs in grin, “And you are next, hanyou!”

 

Kagome didn't see the fight that occurred between the hanyou and the hybrid. She was submerged in a state of semi-conciousness, floating in the space between the Ningenkai and the Rekai. She was happy though, because Inuyasha had came to save her.

At least, I got to see him...

The miko could hear shouts and battle cries, the clashing of metal on metal and the swish of fire. But in the presence of the Goshinbuku, the miko felt almost serene, like the time she had bathed at Midoriko's rest.

Kagome suddenly saw something through her fluttering eyelashes, and Yoko appeared before her.

“Yoko?” she gasped, “How can you be in this world? Did you come through the well?”

The kitsune shook his head, smiling. He seemed transparent, almost like...

“Oh no! You're not a ghost, are you, Yoko? You're aren't dead, are you? Am I dead too?”

But the kitsune wouldn't speak. He just smiled at her, and began to walk away. Kagome struggled to her feet, gripping the trunk of the Goshinbuku, crying out for the bandit to wait. The charms jingled in the wind, and Kagome's vision went black.

 

When the miko awoke, she was shocked to meet the crimson eyes of Yukina.

“How are you feeling?” the Koorime asked kindly, as she placed a cold towel on Kagome's forehead.

Kagome blinked. She was lying on her own bed, in her own room. The bedcovers were pulled up to her chin, but she felt very cold. How did Yukina get here? And why is she here?

The miko noticed Hiei sitting on her windowsill. He had glanced at her when she had opened her eyes, before turning to glare outside again. He was fully clothed, and thankfully back to his usual form.

“Inu...yasha?” Kagome asked, her lips too dry to form a full sentence.

Yukina smiled gently. “After I healed him, he returned to the past. He said he would return in a few hours.”

“Oh...” Kagome couldn't help the overwhelming disappointment she felt. She swallowed, trying to not to cry, and Yukina asked Hiei to fetch some tea from downstairs. Kagome expected Hiei to ignore her, but he got up without a word and left the room. The miko realised Hiei would do anything his sister asked.

Yukina got up and began to mix some more medicine, as Kagome tried desperately to remember what had happened. Inuyasha and Hiei had fought, hadn't they? Or was that part of the foggy dream she had? Hiei had attacked her...but in a different form...

“Hiei won't ever say anything, but he's really sorry about what happened,” Yukina spoke quietly, looking up from her grinding stone. “He would never want to hurt any of Kurama's friends, especially not you. I hope you can forgive him,”

Kagome nodded, realising she didn't feel any pain at all. “Thank you for healing me.”

Yukina gave another sweet smile. “It was my pleasure. Treating burns is a simple process, thanks to my ice powers. I'm just glad Hiei came and got me and quickly as he did, otherwise you could have had lasting damage...”

So Hiei got Yukina...Kagome gave a small smile. “Yes, I'm very lucky...”

 

 

Thanks to Yukina's expertise, Kagome was fully recovered in a few hours, and could get up and walk about, though she was still weak and her skin was tender, especially her forearms, which had took the brunt of the attack.

“Just take the medicine once every hour,” Yukina told her, with a small bow, “and apply the salve when your skin feels hot or prickly.”

“Arigato gozimasu,” Kagome said, returning the bow, “I am in your debt, Yukina-san,”

“Not at all, I was happy to help,” replied the koroomie with her lovely smile. “Hiei, I will wait for you outside.”

With a knowing look, Yukina left the kitchen. Kagome wondered how much Yukina was in the dark about her real relationship to Hiei.

The hybrid youkai looked, for the first time since Kagome had known him, uncomfortable. His eyes were fixed to the space above Kagome's head, and she waited for him to speak.

“I regret what happened,” Hiei said eventually, his eyes flicking to Kagome's face, “And I apologise. My only excuse is the circumstances were outwith my control.”

Kagome nodded, still unable to forget what she had seen between Hiei and Kurama. As if reading her mind, the small youkai said suddenly, “Kurama will explain. He is returning from the Rekai shortly.”

The miko nodded, unable to speak. The thought of seeing Kurama face to face had crushed the air from her lungs.

 

 

The miko was sitting under Goshinbuku when he arrived.

She had come outside to think. It was early morning, as she had been told by Yukina that she has slept fitfully during the night. Inuyasha had stayed for the most part, but after he had ensured that Yukina would not leave without taking Hiei with her, the hanyou had left, promising to return after he had 'sorted something out' back in the past.

Kagome had so much to think about, and her temples throbbed. She was wearing a sky blue cotton summer dress, decorated with white and silver flowers. These sparkled when early morning sun shone through the leaves of the Goshinbuku.

Hiei had said Kurama would explain what the miko had witnessed the day before, on the rooftop. She remembered Hiei saying something of an explanation before she had attacked him- something about a mouth to mouth remedy.

But why would Hiei need a remedy? And why did he transform after being hit with my purification powers?

Kagome sighed, her head resting on the top of her knees.

And why did Inuyasha leave? Is finding the shikon shards still more important to him than me?

The miko closed her eyes, fighting back the tears. She was so overwhelmed by everything that was happening, she was surprised she hadn't burst yet. There were so many battling emotions crammed inside her.

And what was that image of Yoko I saw? Is he really dead?

The miko sniffed, and in that instant she could smell something familiar in the air...something light and fragrant. Kagome opened her eyes slowly, the scent finally registering in her troubled mind.

Roses...

The miko looked up, following the wind as it blew across the shrine, scattering leaves and flower petals. A figure appeared through the petals, and they seemed to dance around him, in a whirlwind.

“Kurama-kun?” Kagome asked the wind. The avatar finally became clear, and the miko gasped at what she saw. Kurama was pale white, his ruby locks blowing about his face and emphasising the translucence of his skin. His yellow fighting robes were torn in many places, and Kagome's eyes widened further when she realised the red markings on his tunic were not a design, but drying blood.

“Kurama-kun!” Kagome cried out this time, getting to her feet and meeting Kurama at the fence that bordered the Goshinbuku. The avatar's green eyes were full of sadness and guilt, and he collapsed in the miko's arms. She gently guided him over the fence, and slowing eased him onto her lap, while she down. Blood dripped onto the blade of grass.

“Sumimasen, Kagome.” Kurama said softly. The miko knew he wasn't talking about the state of his clothing.

“Kurama-kun, you should be in hospital or something! Didn't they treat you in Rekai?”

“I had to see you first...” the avatar explained, wincing in pain. He had suffered many wounds in the battle in the Rekai, and he hadn't had the time to heal or treat the wounds he had received from Hiei, which had not been small.

The miko blinked away her tears, cradling the kitsune's head in her hands. He leaned against her chest, his arms around her waist. “Kagome...what you saw...it really was as Hiei said. We were fighting, when he began to have an attack, spurned on by his early full fire day...”

The avatar paused, catching his breath.

“Kurama-kun, you have to rest...you can stop, it's okay...”

But Kurama was determined to continue. “Due to the moon and the sun in the sky simultaneously, Hiei's elements were unsettled earlier than he had estimated...I had to administer the potion, lest he wrecked havoc on the town...”

Kagome nodded, stroking the kitsune's hair. She had forgiven him, and Hiei, already in her heart. It was good to hear Kurama confirm the story, however.

“I know what you must have thought when you saw it...I can assure you I am not toying with your affections...Hiei is only a comrade and good friend...”

“Hai, I believe you, Kurama. I should have approached you at the time, instead of running away..I was just shocked, that's all...”

Kurama stroked her face, a deep cut on his cheek leaking blood down his pale skin.

“You saw what you saw. I only wish I could have got to you first...I passed Hiei and Yukina earlier. I heard what happened...”

Kurama closed his eyes, his hand shaking. “That you were hurt by Hiei is most unfortunate, and would not have happened if I had personally escorted him to the Makai...he did not know that the snowdrop serum was not a cure, but a preventative, and in the confusion, I did not mention it to him...”

The avatar sighed, “I am so much at fault. Please find it in your heart to forgive me, Kagome,”

The miko could not stop the tears as she wiped the blood from the avatar's face. She kissed him gently, holding him as closely as she could without hurting him.

“Kurama-kun, there is nothing to forgive! What happened was unavoidable. There is no one to blame.”

 

Kagome held Kurama for quite a while. They sat in silence, simply enjoying each others' company.

“Are you in any pain?” Kurama asked after a while. “Yukina can heal wounds, especially burns, much better than I, but...”

“I'm fine,” Kagome smiled, “But you need to treat yourself! Do you want to take a shower?”

“Arigato, but I better head back home,” the avatar said, closing his eyes once again, enjoying the feeling of Kagome's hands in his hair, “I'm supposed to be taking my mother out for lunch today.”

Kagome nodded, forgetting that Kurama's mother was in town for a few days.

“Gomen, I can't stay with you longer,” Kurama said, slowly sitting up.

“I understand. When you live a double it is difficult to find time for your family. You must enjoy it when you can.” Kagome told him, helping him over the fence.

 

It wasn't until Kagome had returned to her bedroom and saw the scentless petal plant, that she realised she hadn't asked the avatar about it.

Damn! Well, I'm not waiting around any more. Inuyasha said he was coming to get me, so I'll go meet him at the well!

 

It had been too long since Kagome had returned to the past- but the swoop in her stomach had little to do with the motions of time travel. She clambered out the well quickly, knowing that if Inuyasha caught her, he would not be in the best of moods.

Well, he was the one that said he would come back for me, and he didn't! I need to find out what's going on!

The miko half expected the hanyou to appear from the trees, cursing and calling her every name under the afternoon sun, but the forest was remarkably quiet.

Too quiet...

Kagome walked quickly, knowing exactly where she needed to go. She missed Shippo, Sango, Miroku and Kaede, and longed to see them, but there was a more pressing issue on her mind.

The miko began to run through the forest, clutching the silver rose pendant in her hand. It was cold, much colder than the miko had ever remembered it being. As Kagome ran, she noticed that many flowers had withered, just as Inuyasha had said. The miko felt her heart beat faster, and it was nothing to do with her run.

 

 

Despite the bright sunlight filtering through the trees, Kagome eventually realised she only had a general idea of where she was heading. She had found the secluded spot that Yoko had once taken her, while Kagome and Sango had been on a walk. It was on this spot that Kikyo had interrupted them. Kami-sama...I had forgotten all about that. I wonder why Kikyo never told Inuyasha?

The miko began to walk east-west, the direction she remembered Yoko carrying her.

But Yoko ran so fast...I'm not even sure it was a straight path...

Biting her lip, Kagome made her way though the forest the best she could, trying to pick out any noticeable trees, rocks or flowers that could confirm she was taking the right route. However, when the miko noticed that increasingly most of the greenery was blackened and broken, she determinedly looked straight ahead.

After fifteen minutes of walking, however, the forest became even more depressing. It looked at though a fire had broken out- trees were broken, their limbs hanging limply in odd directions, like broken arms. Beautiful flowers, that before had been a blur of colour in Kagome's eyes, were charred and crumpled. The grass beneath the miko's feet crunched and was a sickly brown.

Oh Yoko...it really can't be...

Kagome held the pendant even tighter in her hand, and she gave a gasp as it glowed purple. At first, the miko thought it was the shine from the shikon, which also hung around her neck, but as she held the pendant high in the air, the lavender hue was unmistakable.

 

 

Kagome was overtaken by a peculiar feeling- an urgency of some sort, and without consciously thinking it, she began to run again. Her legs pounded the earth, and she nimbly upturned roots that clawed out the ground. The miko began to push herself into a sprint, feeling as though she was stricken with a fever. She felt every time her foot hit the ground, every breath she pulled into her lungs, every blink of her eyelid.

The miko was beginning to get a horrendous stitch in her side, and she slowed, rubbing her stomach. She had almost given up hope, believing she had now gotten herself well and truly lost, and Inuyasha was surely going to be mad at her.

Then, she parted through a bamboo grove, where the stalks rose yellow and ribbed. It was an eerily quiet place, and Kagome had no recollection of it before. But, the miko felt compelled to walk on, and as she cleared the grove, she met a very familiar rock face.

This is it! I found it!

Astonished with her discovery, Kagome approached the large rock, holding her pendant aloft. The miko saw that the roses and foliage entwined around the rock had also perished, but she ignored it, banishing the churning feeling in her stomach.

“Come on!” The miko urged, standing as close to the rock as possible, her nose grazing some foul smelling moss, “Open!”

Kagome began to feel rather stupid. She stood back, examining the rock. It definitely was the right place, there was no doubt about it. And the kitsune had told her last time she would be able to open the rock herself, with the pendant.

So why isn't it working?

Unless...

A sinking thought pricked at Kagome's brain, but she refused to let it permeate her thoughts.

No! He can't be! He can't! I don't care if the plants have died! It doesn't mean anything!

The miko strode up to the rock again, both hands holding the silver tinged purple rose.

“Open! I command you to open!” the miko cried, kicking the rock in frustration. Her big toe really hurt, but it didn't stop her, and she pounded on the rock with her fists, upsetting some ants, who began to scuttle away.

“Why won't you open?” Kagome began to sob, clenching the pendant so hard so would fear it would snap. Yoko hadn't done anything special or said any words to open the cave last time, had he? Kagome thought back, wiping her tears angrily. Too much had happened in so little time, memories all mixed into each other. The day she met Yoko. The day he pretended he was going to feed her to his plants. The day he gave her the pendant. The night in the tree. Memory after memory flashed before Kagome's eyes, and she dropped to her knees, holding her face in hands, unable to stop the tears.

You can't have left already Yoko! I'm not ready for this!

The miko was so busy weeping she didn't notice the moss and vines begin the recede and creep back from the rock face. It was only when felt the chain of the rose necklace become red hot did the miko look up in shock. The rose was sparkling as it had before, illuminating the opened cave before her.

 

 

Kagome ran down the uneven steps as quickly as she could, twice almost tumbling all the way down. When the miko finally reached the hollowed atrium, she cried out. There was the silver kitsune, lying in the middle of the floor, on some sort of rug. He was covered in blood, his hair dripping with it, his pearly clothes so dark they were almost black. His skin was streaked with it too, and his eyes were closed.

“Yoko!” Kagome wept, falling at the bandit's body, cradling his head like she had Kurama's earlier. The miko didn't care that she was once again being soaked in blood- Yoko's face was warm, which meant he was alive.

“Kagome?” The kitsune's eyelids opened slowly, and the crease of his forehead suggested it pained him to do so.

“Oh Yoko!” Kagome cried, hugging the kitsune's head to her chest, “You're alive!”

The bandit blinked, inhaling the miko's scent like it was badly needed oxygen. Despite his weakened state, he managed to sit up, and cupped the miko's cheeks. He stared at her in wonder for a few moments, and the miko flushed at the attention. He leaned in to kiss her, and it was such a gentle, soft kiss that Kagome continued to cry.

“Kagome,” the bandit repeated, and he stroked the miko's face. “You don't know how good it is to see you...”

“Oh Yoko!” the miko smiled, though her eyes continued to leak fresh tears, “What on earth happened to you?”

The kitsune shook his head, as if in a daze. “I...”

Kagome leaned over and took Yoko's hand, ignoring his blood stained palm and knuckles.

“It's okay. All that matters is that you're safe! You must be tired. Let me heal you...”

“No, Kagome,” Yoko shook his head, “I don't want to be healed. I need to feel this pain.”

“Nani?” the miko replied, confused. “Yoko, it's no problem to heal you!”

“I know,” the kitsune sighed, closing his eyes. “But the pain...it is atonement.”

The miko squeezed the kitsune's hand gently. “Yoko, please tell me what happened. It will make you feel better to share whatever it is...”

The bandit looked away, his gaze unseeing.

“Okay then. Well, at least let me clean you. You might like being covered in blood, but I don't! Is there a river or something nearby where I can fetch some water?”

Yoko turned back to her, blinking. “Water?”

Kagome bit her lip. Never before had she seen the kitsune like this. He was like a lost child.

“Hai, water. Is there some nearby?”

The kitsune blinked again. “There is a hot spring through there.”

Kagome followed the wave of Yoko's hand, to the back of the cave. Intrigued, Kagome got to her feet, and walked past the many treasures and booty the kitsune had acquired. The atrium narrowed as Kagome continued to walk, and there were more steps. The miko keep her hands tracing the rocky walls, to keep her balance. She could hear the noise of water, gushing and frothing like a jacuzzi back home.

What is this? An indoor hot spring?

The miko shielded her eyes as she emerged, the sunlight bouncing off the water and blinding her. Kagome couldn't help but gasp in surprise. The little hot spring was a perfect circle, surrounded by a bamboo grove similar to the one he miko had walked through earlier. The bamboo blocked out any vision of the outside world, making the hot spring sheltered and secluded. Beautiful green leaves were entwined around the yellow bamboo, giving the water a magical emerald glow. Colourful flowers, or their remains, bordered the spring, and to Kagome it seemed like a little paradise.

 

The miko returned to the kitsune, and although she was madly curious to know why he was so hurt, she could tell that Yoko was in no mood to talk.

“Come on, let's get you cleaned up at least!” Kagome said, putting on a cheeriness she didn't feel. She managed to persuade Yoko to get to his feet, and supporting him with his arm over her shoulder, the pair made their way down the steps, sideways because it was so narrow. The miko led, constantly checking to make sure the kitsune was able to balance.

“This is a beautiful place,” Kagome gushed, trying to make the conversation light, “Sango and I would kill for a little private place of our own like this! We're lucky to see a hot spring once a month, and even then, Miroku constantly peeks...”

The bandit was unresponsive, sitting down besides the round pool. The miko tried to locate some sort of washing liquid she knew Yoko must keep nearby. It seemed, in his present state, Yoko was unable to sustain the nearby plants and flowers with his energy, never mind summon anything to wash himself with.

“Aha!” The miko said joyfully, noticing two little wooden flasks, much like the ones her group used to store fresh water. Kagome sniffed them, and decided they were usable. One was the rose scented oil that the kitsune used in his hair, while the other was a more almond smell, almost fizzy, which Kagome decided could be used for washing.

“Neh, Yoko. Do you want to get in? I'll help you wash, if you want...”

The kitsune raised his eyebrows, his familiar smirk almost returning. “Oh, really?”

Kagome blushed, though unsurprised it was such a comment that would return the bandit to his former self.

“Hai. I'm keeping my clothes on though, don't get excited!”

“Hmmph,” Yoko remarked, and began to peel off his clothes, which were stiff with blood, “Well, I most certainly am not...”

The miko blushed further, averting her eyes, though still managing to catch a glimpse of the bandit's finely sculptured behind. His silver tail swished in the water, and the kitsune let out a dry hiss of pain.

Kagome was immediately at his side, not even paying attention to the fact the bandit was barely submerged in the water. “Oh Yoko, are you alright?”

The miko was shocked as he turned to face her. His body was completely covered in deep wounds and gashes- whatever had happened, the kitsune had not gotten away lightly. The spring began to turn pink, and Kagome clambered into the pool, her skirt and blouse immediately clinging to her skin.

Wordlessly, Yoko pulled the miko into his arms, and Kagome struggled not to cry. It was difficult seeing the kitsune like this, injured and undefended. She was used to Kurama being gentle and open with his emotions- Inuyasha was generally more harder, but he showed his feelings on his face, and she had seen him injured countless times. She was so used to Yoko being perfect and controlled, it broke her heart to see the bandit so hurt.

 

“Will you tell me what happened?” the miko finally asked. She had washed the kitsune's body carefully, trying to discreetly heal his largest wounds, but each time he would stop her. Now, Kagome sat on the edge of the pool, her feet dangling in the hot water. Yoko's head was in her lap, and Kagome was carefully and slowly washing the kitsune's long, silver hair free of blood.

Yoko avoided the question. “It's been centuries since anyone has was my hair. I had forgotten how good it felt...”

Kagome smiled, understanding that this was the kitsune's way of saying he still wasn't ready to talk. The miko teased the long silkily strands through her fingertips. The bandit was clean and rose smelling once again, but the miko wasn't ready to part her fingers from his hair. It was sheer joy to run her touch.

After a while, Kagome began to massage the kitsune's shoulders, her fingers skilled from many years of living with her ailing ji-chan. Yoko immediately leaned forward, giving her better access, and letting his long hair cover his face. The bandit gave a low moan, chuckling.

“Kami-sama Kagome, you are a dangerous woman.”

The miko smiled, trying to break the many knots of tension in the kitsune's strong back. It was pleasurable to her simply to touch his skin- she hadn't seen him for so long.

Yoko eventually turned around, kissing her fingertips. His wet hair clung to his shoulders, and he turned his head, brushing his lips against her knee that was at his right cheek.

“Yoko...” Kagome murmured, stroking his face. As much as she missed the kitsune and his touch, he was injured and burdened with something, and the last thing Kagome wanted was for the bandit to turn his attention to her.

But there was no stopping the kitsune. He rose out of the water, crawling over the miko and gently lowering her to the ground, his soaking body pressing against her already wet clothes. The miko gasped as Yoko pushed against her, able to feel every muscle of his body, including his hardening member.

“Yoko...” Kagome tried to protest, but was silenced with a heated kiss. The kitsune plundered her mouth hungrily, while his fingers traced her body through her soaking clothes.

Yoko raised himself up slightly, giving the miko a chance to look at his gorgeous chest, dripping with water drops.

“Off,” he demanded, and immediately Kagome found herself being undressed from her blouse. Satisfied for the moment, Yoko began to squeeze her breasts, while the miko squirmed underneath him. As the kitsune's hot mouth found her nipple, Kagome gasped, running her hands down Yoko's back. She was trying to be gentle with him because he was so hurt, but the bandit seemed in no mood to go slow.

“Yoko!” The miko cried out, as suddenly the kitsune's hand found its way up her skirt, pushing aside her wet panties and exploring her lips. Yoko grinned against her breast, as he began to thrust inside her, then rotating his finger in a circle. Kagome felt her body react instantly, her skin red hot and flushed, as her body began to betray her, convulsing underneath the kitsune.

“Yoko, stop!” Kagome begged, feeling herself losing control. This is why I didn't want this to happen!

When the kitsune ignored her, increasing his pace and making Kagome cry out, she grabbed Yoko's wrist.

“Yoko, you have to stop!” Kagome panted, her cheeks peony. The kitsune blinked, slowly pulling out of her body. The miko realised this was the second time she had used the word with the kitsune, and she sat up, wrapping her arms around the kitsune and pulling him close.

“I'm sorry,” she whispered, her breasts crushing against the kitsune's chest, “It's not that I don't enjoy it- it's just you're hurt, and I can't...”

Yoko stayed motionless in her arms for a few seconds, and Kagome's skin turned cold, fearing she had insulted the bandit. But then the kitsune was holding her tight, burying his nose in her hair.

“Kuronue...died...”

It was the last thing Kagome was expecting the hear, but suddenly everything began clear to the miko. She felt her eyes well up with tears for Yoko's comrade, the man she had only met once but had heard so much about.

“I'm so sorry,” Kagome told the kitsune, putting her head under his shoulder, kissing his neck. Yoko let out a sigh, and the miko wondered if he was crying.

“It was a botched mission...” Kagome felt the emotion in the bandit's voice, and knew he could only tell her because they weren't keeping eye contact. The miko stroked the kitsune's back reassuringly.

“I told him it would be simple. We get in, we get out. But somehow they knew. There was a whole guard, hidden in the shadows. I had the artifice...but Kuronue got trapped. He went back for that stupid necklace...”

Kagome felt the kitsune inhale deeply. “In tried to go back for him. The guard came spilling out of their hiding places, headed straight for us. He told me to leave him, save myself...”

Yoko's voice cracked. “I was stupid. I should have stayed with him, died with him...”

The miko shivered. “I know you wanted to. But Kuronue wouldn't have wanted to waste your life...”

The kitsune sighed again. “His life was wasted...”

“I'm sorry,” Kagome said, finding it hard to find the words to comfort Yoko. She cuddled into him, continuing to rub his back.

“I thought you had died,” Kagome said suddenly, remembering the reason she had came here. “I was sick with worry. I don't know what I would have done, if you had died...”

Yoko squeezed the miko's side, but he didn't say anything.

 

 

When Kagome finally left Yoko, the afternoon had began to turn into night. The sky was a hazy lavender, and Shippo bounded into Kagome's arms as she arrived in the village.

“Kagomeeeeeeee!” he yelled happily, “Where have you been?”

The miko laughed, spinning the little kit around. “I just had to visit a sick friend.”

The kit shook his head at her, his green eyes wide. “No, I mean, where have you been all this time? You haven't been here in ages!”

That's right...because Inuyasha wouldn't let me. Does that mean Shippo's been kept in the dark too?

Uneasy, Kagome began to walk with the Shippo, telling him she had been sitting tests. But the miko was confused. She had assumed there had been some danger concerning the last shard of the shikon jewel- but if Shippo didn't know why she had been kept away, that couldn't be it.

“Kagome-chan!” Sango jumped to her feet as soon as the miko arrived in the hut, a smile on her face.

“Sango-chan,” Kagome smiled back, putting Shippo on his feet. “Where's everyone?”

“Oh, Miroku and Kaede have gone to rid a little boy of a possession. Kirara is around here somewhere, and I thought Inuyasha was going to your world!”

“Ah,” Kagome frowned, her hands on her hips. She turned to the kit, who was playing with his crayons. “Neh. Shippo-chan, do you want to go catch some fish for dinner? I've brought that special sauce that you like!”

“Oh boy!” the kitsune clapped his hands, and immediately ran for the river. Sango sat back down, pouring Kagome some tea she had just brewed. “Are you okay, Kagome-chan?”

The miko shrugged, kneeling down and accepting the cup. “I don't know, Sango-chan. Did Inuyasha tell you why I hadn't came back?”

Sango frowned as she thought. “Well, he went to get you a couple of times, right? But each time he said you were busy, and he'd get you in a few days.”

“No way!” Kagome gasped. “Inuyasha kept telling me that it was too dangerous to return to the past! I was worried sick about you guys!”

Sango blinked. “Really? He said that? I wonder why? We haven't had a fight since you were last with us, and there's been no other trouble...”

Suddenly Sango's eyes widened as she realised something, but she tried to cover it up.

“Nani? What is it?”

“N-nothing...” Sango said, looking down at her tea.

“Sango-chan! Come on, I know you too well to be able to tell when you lie! What is it?”

The tajiya sighed, taking a sip of her tea before answering. “I'm sure its nothing to worry about, Kagome. It's just...”

“Nani?”

“Well...” Sango looked uncomfortable as she spoke, “Kikyo's soul snatchers have been around recently...”

“Oh...” Kagome said, swallowing. Her throat felt very dry, and she drank.

“But, that can't have anything to do with it! Maybe Inuyasha just heard something about Kouga, and he was panicking as usual...”

Or maybe he didn't want his time with Kikyo interrupted. Maybe he didn't want to feel guilty for once.

“Well, the jewel is nearly finished,” Kagome commented, drawing the shikon from her blouse. She was glad her clothes had dried quickly in the den.

“Maybe they are discussing their plans for whatever happens after...”

“Whatever happens, Kagome-chan...” Sango reached out and held the miko's hand, “We'll all be here for you...”

 

 

The group ate their fish that night without Inuyasha. The hanyou hadn't returned, but Miroku said he thought he was scouting shikon rumours.

“After all, he can move more quickly without us bothersome ningen” Miroku quoted, “I'm sure, since we only have once shard to go, he wants to find it as quickly as possible. Dragging us around with him would just lengthen the process.”

Sango nodded, quick to agree. Shippo remained oblivious, happily devouring the hanyou's share, while Kaede stared into the fire, her lips pressed together. Kagome didn't know what to believe.

I have no problem with him seeing Kikyo- but I hate it when he makes it a secret. And I can't understand why he would keep me from the past for so long because of her!

Kagome lay in her sleeping bag that night, turning over her troubles in her head. Who knew what was going to happen when the shikon was complete?

Just as the miko was about to fall asleep, a startling cry made her jolt to her senses. Kagome knew the sound, and it made her heart crystallise with ice.

The miko got up silently, glad that Shippo was cuddled up with Kirara. She swiftly exited the hut, following the blood curling calls that echoed in the night sky. The village was deserted, all the lights of the huts extinguished. The water was still as Kagome crossed the bridge, and heart thumped with fear. What would she see? Every time she witnessed a meeting between Inuyasha and Kikyo she was hurt- but she couldn't stay away.

 

 

They were in Inuyasha forest, just near the well. Kagome kept in the shadows, glad there was no wind to blow her scent in the hanyou's direction. Kikyo was facing her; she could only see Inuyasha's back. They seemed to be arguing.

“I've gave you enough time, Inuyasha! From what I have observed, the girl hasn't even been helping you find the shard! I thought that was her only purpose?”

“It is her only purpose,” the hanyou replied quietly.

“Really? Then why have you not located the shard?”

“She's been useless lately. I'm faster on my own, I thought I could find it quicker!”

“Don't be stupid, Inuyasha! You cannot detect shards!” Kikyo paused, regaining her composure. “Well, then. I have no choice- I must take back Kagome's soul. Only then, can I help you search for the shikon, and we can complete it.”

Kagome put both hands over her mouth to swallow her gasp. Kikyo wants to steal my soul?

“Once the jewel is complete- you will fulfil your promise, Inuyasha...”

Kagome couldn't listen any more. She began to run, running for the well, that was thankfully close by. Was that why Inuyasha had kept her away? He didn't want her to know of the plans that he and Kikyo were concocting?

Why, Inuyasha? Kagome thought as she ran, her eyes blurring and making the ground and the sky merge together. After everything we're been through, why would you do this?

Kagome had lost many parts of her heart recently. But now, her frozen heart cracked and splintered into fragments, just as the shikon-no-tama had many years ago.

 

 

Arigato as always for you reviews! There are seven more chapters planned for this fic! Please stick with me ^^

 

-MM-

 

Princess of the dobermans: Well, hope you enjoyed the update! Sorry for the wait! Aha, well you will have to wait and see!

SahdowStar09: Hehe, I love you too! Your review made me pretty nervous! But I can assure you, this fic will be finished soon, there's only 7 chapters left, and I plan to finish it before my second year of Uni, which begins Oct! But lol, really, loved your review, it's great to know I have such a passionate fan out there!! Hope you enjoyed the update, Sorry for the wait!

Beckyducky: Wow, a long review indeed! But I love them, keep them coming!! Hehe, I'm glad you liked it! I've never done anything like that before, so it means a lot to me you liked it! Haha, and you got to show your friend, yay! Oooh, I've almost been chucked out of the library too- in fact, I was once, for climbing under a bookshelf! We rebels!!

Haha, well hopefully this chapter answers your questions- though no doubt it will give you many more!!

I know, I will miss it too! But I will begin my next fic, Chained to You, as soon as this is finished, so I hope you will continue to support me!! ^^ Ah, well my uni work did increase dramatically, but mainly because I was doing two extra subjects (history and politics) that I had never done before! It is a big jump, but you will adjust!

Mmm. Well I have friends who do sort of biochemistry courses in University of Glasgow, and University of Aberdeen. St Andrews is the best University to get into in Scotland- unfortunately I'm not to wised up about Universities in the rest of the UK! Ahh tried to add you, but no success! Can you send me the link, that'd be great!!

purplebabe: Hope you enjoy the update! Sorry for the wait!

Sango Tajiya: Hehe. Thanks very much for your review. Hopefully you will forgive me with this chapter lol! Sorry it took so long!

Just a fan: Wow, it's great to hear that I can turn a diehard Inuyasha x Kagome fan lol! After all, it was through fanfiction that I learned of crossing over Inuyasha and Yu Yu Hakusho, so it is my duty to interest fans like you! The circle of life lol! Ahh, thank you!

Hawaiianhoney2030: Ooooh I know, isn't the trailer amazing?? Jacob looks yummy! I've actually got something to look forward to this winter thanks to New Moon lol!

Haha, I'm actually Scottish, but really? That's funny! Oh I know, it's such a colloquial thing, I can't get out the habit!

Rocky road: Thanks! Hope it was work the wait!

Dubble Z: Well here you are!

 

-FF-

 

(All reviews replied to using the reply system, unless not a member of ff)

Kathy: Thanks! Hope you enjoyed this chapter!