InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Beautiful Souls ❯ To Prepare ( Chapter 8 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: BrethlessM 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure / Hentai / Romance | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 08.21.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 7.0K | Visits: 582 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Adventure / Hentai / Romance | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 08.21.2005 | Pages: 5 | Words: 7.0K | Visits: 582 | Status: Completed
Kaede examined Kagome as she listened to Inuyasha’s tale. The girl appeared to be in no physical danger, which put the old woman’s mind at ease. Kagome whimpered in her sleep, twisting upon the straw mat where Inuyasha had placed her. The hanyou put his hand to her face, brushing off the sweat that appeared on her forehead. Slowly, Kagome relaxed once more.
“Kikyou said that you’d know how to help her,” Inuyasha concluded, looking hopeful, “Is Kagome... will she be all right?”
Rising, the old miko lifted a pot of boiling water from the fire. Pouring it into a cup containing an herbal mixture, Kaede returned to her patient. “Inuyasha, sit behind Kagome and raise her up so that she can drink.” The hanyou complied and Kaede slowly fed her the tea, “There. The drink I have just given her should counteract the remains of the poison. She’ll be fine by morning.”
Inuyasha slipped out from beneath Kagome’s head, allowing her to lie flat again. Already, she appeared to be more at ease. The wrinkle that had creased her face with pain had diminished and the color began to rise in her cheeks. Settling himself in for a long night, Inuyasha leaned back against the wall beside Kagome’s head, watching over her as she slept.
Kaede examined the half-youkai. “Inuyasha, she will sleep for hours yet. Ye needn’t neglect thine own health by sitting up all night.”
“Keh,” Inuyasha had no intention of leaving her side tonight.
With a sigh, Kaede just shook her head. She remembered Inuyasha from more than fifty years ago, before her elder sister Kikyou had pinned him to Goshinboku. The being she had known then was far different from the one who now sat beside her sister’s reincarnation. The beauty of the girl’s spirit had given new life to the half-demon, and Kaede hoped that someday, when the threat to their lives had passed, these two could come to see one another for what they truly were. ‘Maybe then,’ she thought, ‘Kikyou onee-sama will be able to find peace as well.’
From outside, a soft noise announced the arrival of visitors. Stepping outside the hut, Kaede moved forward to welcome Sango, Miroku, Shippou and Kirara, “She sleeps peacefully,” the miko informed them before they could ask. “Inuyasha is with her.”
Sitting around the dying fire outside of Kaede’s hut, Miroku and Sango shared with the old woman what they knew of the journey. Kaede was not surprised to hear about the displays of Kagome’s power. “Kikyou onee-sama was a powerful Miko, and Kagome possesses great energy in her own right. Miroku, ye were wise to recognize that she would need time to prepare to handle such power. Kagome herself, has no idea to what lengths her power may grow.”
Kaede shook her head, sadly, “In fact, I see now that I may have been the cause of her present torment. The stone that I gave her to meditate with should have helped Kagome relax her mind, allowing her to sleep. It seems that in this situation, the stone relaxed her mind and allowed the seed Mouryoumaru had implanted to take firmer hold, causing her nightmares to become even stronger,” A bitter look appeared on Kaede’s face, “I should have questioned her more about her afflictions. I hope the child will forgive the foolishness of an old woman.”
“Would ya cut that out?” Inuyasha appeared from inside the hut, “So you didn’t have all the information you needed. There’s no way you could have known what had happened, any more than the rest of us. You did what you thought was right, and that’s all you can do, so shut the hell up!” Inuyasha scowled at the woman as she smiled at him in surprise. His voice softened, “Besides, if anyone’s to blame, it’s me,” His ears drooped as he explained, “I didn’t protect her from Mouryoumaru, and he not only managed to get his hands on her, he put a piece of himself...” Inuyasha trailed off in disgust, pain coloring his voice, “ That day I sent her back to her own time and blocked the well... if she’d just stayed there, if she’d never come back....”
Sango rose and approached Inuyasha, “Would you have wanted that? For her to disappear so that you’d never see her again?”
Inuyasha’s eyes flashed, but he spoke calmly, “At least she’d be fucking safe.”
Sango shook her head in frustration, “All Kagome’s ever wanted was for you to love her! She’s always felt safe with you.”
Inuyasha stared at her, uncertain. Unable to believe. Without a word, he returned to his place at Kagome’s side. Gazing tenderly at her face, Inuyasha shook his head, sadly. How could she love him? He only ever seemed to hurt her. Wishing he could take all her pain on himself, Inuyasha fell asleep in his usual position of watchfulness.
******************
“Kagome!” Shippou flung himself at her the moment her eyes fluttered open, “You’re awake! Do you feel okay?”
Kagome laughed, “I’m fine, Shippou!”
“Oi! Brat! Let her breathe!” The kitsune struggled as Inuyasha picked him up by his tail and deposited him further away from Kagome.
Inuyasha’s eyes were filled with concern, “You okay, Kagome?”
She nodded, sitting upright, “What happened?”
Shippou crawled back into her lap as Inuyasha went over everything they had discovered after hearing her scream.
Inuyasha looked at the ground, ears falling, “I’m sorry, Kagome. You asked me if I trusted her and...”
“Don’t apologize.” Kagome frowned and shook her head, “I told you it was okay to leave me there, and I guess if it wasn’t for her, I’d still have that... thing inside me,” Kagome shuddered.
Inuyasha met her eyes, “It’s not just that. I.... None of this would have happened if Mouryoumaru hadn’t gotten his... tentacles on you,” He winced, refusing to meet her eyes, “No matter how hard I try to protect you, something will always happen that I can’t prevent. Even I hurt you,” Inuyasha sighed, looking away again, “Sometimes... I think you’d be better off without me. Hell, you’d certainly be a lot safer.”
Kagome grabbed his hand, surprising him, “No! Inuyasha.... Don’t you understand how... important you are to me? I might be safer, sure - but I definitely wouldn’t be better off! Besides, it was my decision to stay with you. So if something happens to me, it’s because I decided I wanted to be here, needed to be... with you. It’s what I want.”
Suddenly bashful, Kagome looked down at the astonished youkai on her lap. “How do you feel about a bath, Shippou?” Getting up, she went to search for her pack, which Sango had brought back for her.
Inuyasha turned to stare at her as she left the hut, “Kagome....” He whispered in surprise. Suddenly, he dared to hope.
******************
The sky threatened rain as March gave way to April. Kagome sat under Goshinboku, thankful that she had packed the jeans and white long-sleeved shirt she now wore. Breathing deeply, enjoying the smell of air thick with moisture, Kagome refocused her mind on the meditation exercises Kaede had given her that morning.
Suddenly aware of the presence of a youkai above her, Kagome opened her eyes in alarm, just as she recognized the soothing aura of her best friend. Tilting her head back, she looked up to see Inuyasha staring down at her with a playful grin. “Thought you could sneak up on me, didn’t you?”
Kagome laughed as the hanyou suddenly jumped to the ground, scooped her up and leapt back to his usual branch high in The Sacred Tree. “I’m supposed to be meditating,” She protested weakly.
Inuyasha chuckled, “Meditate later. Me now.” Praying she wouldn’t ‘sit’ him for it, he leaned forward and brushed her hair to one side, gently kissing the back of her neck.
Kagome closed her eyes, deciding that meditation could wait just a few more minutes.
Inuyasha worked his way around, kissing the side of her throat before gently grasping an earlobe between his teeth. Her gasp, of surprise release something within him. “I was worried about you,” he murmured softly.
Kagome wasn’t sure if her brain was connected to her mouth anymore. “You... were?”
“Uh-huh,” Kissing down her neck again, he pulled the material of her shirt away from her shoulder, sighing softly as he kissed the unmarred flesh, “I was afraid I’d lost you.” Within his chest, words he’d longed to tell her began to stir. Irritated at his weakness, ever for Kagome, Inuyasha allowed himself to be content with this first attempt to convey to the girl how much she meant to him. She hadn’t pushed him away in terror or disgust, but he still was not confident enough to tell her that he would die if he lost her.
A shiver made its way through Kagome. The moment felt surreal to her, and the shift in Inuyasha’s behavior was so much like the dreams she’d had, that for a minute Kagome began to believe that she’d dozed off while meditating. Suddenly, forgotten images from that night reappeared in her head, “Kikyou!”
Inuyasha paused, confused, “Huh?”
Shaking herself, Kagome turned in Inuyasha’s lap, causing him to groan aloud, “Careful woman, or I’ll drop you,” he warned huskily.
Kagome frowned at him, suddenly focused, “Inuyasha, listen. We have to find the others. We have to discuss some of the things that Kikyou and I talked about!”
Inuyasha pouted, “And we have to do this right now?”
Something inside Kagome screamed for her to relent, but she knew that certain things had to take priority. She nodded, making him sigh loudly to express his disappointment. He got her down from the tree and she turned to run off towards the village.
Catching her hand, he pulled her back to him, “This isn’t over, bitch.” He threatened her with a grin.
Kagome blushed, a smile spreading over her face, “If you’re lucky!” She teased, pulling her hand free and taking off at a run. She had no idea what had come over the hanyou, but for once, she smiled at the thought that he would be the frustrated one.
“Oi! You won’t get off that easily!” Sprinting after her, Inuyasha found himself smiling. ‘Maybe Sango was right after all.’
******************
Miroku stared at Kagome for a moment, pondering what she had just told them, “If what Kikyou says is true, then we have no time to waste. We must immediately form a plan of action.”
Kagome nodded, “Right. Kikyou said to gather the remaining shards. I think what we need to do is find Kouga and Kohaku and bring them here. Since we haven’t had any luck finding Naraku or Mouryoumaru, it seems likely that if the three remaining shards are here, sooner or later, they’ll have to come to us!”
Inuyasha scowled, “You mean just fucking wait around?”
Sango looked thoughtful, “If we have time to plan it, this could work to our benefit,” All eyes turned to the demon exterminator. As the only one among them experienced with group fighting tactics, the rest of them knew that if anyone could make such a risky situation pay off, it was Sango. “We’d need to find an open area, nearby so that we still have access to the village.”
Now all were facing Inuyasha, who knew the area better than anyone. The hanyou frowned, thoughtfully, “Well... there is this one place... about five miles from here. I used to watch Kikyou practice her archery there.”
Sango shot a quick glance at Kagome, who remained expressionless, before nodding, “Good. I’ll need to see it.”
“Then it seems that our first priority, after Sango views the battle field, should be to send parties out to find Kouga and Kohaku.” Miroku addressed Kagome, “Finding Kouga should be easy. All you have to do is travel within range of the Wolf Youkai Tribe’s lair and he should come running to you.” In response to the low growl issuing from Inuyasha, Miroku added, “of course, Inuyasha will be with you to make sure Kouga doesn’t get the wrong idea.”
Kagome agreed, “And you and Sango should go after Kohaku, although I’m not sure how you’ll find him,” she looked to Sango worriedly.
Sango sighed, “There may be a way. If Kohaku has truly recovered all of his memory, there is an old method used by my people for locating one another, if separated. Even if we can’t locate him physically, We can travel around just enough to see if he’s been seen in the villages, and attempt to contact him my way, if necessary.” Frowning, Sango continued, “However, it’s possibly that, with all this activity, Naraku will figure out that something’s up.”
Inuyasha looked determined, “Good. Then he’ll definitely be coming.” Looking at Shippou, Inuyasha suggested nonchalantly, “You two should take the runt with you. He might be able to sniff out Kohaku for you since I’m not there.”
Shippou puffed his chest out proudly at the compliment. Sango and Miroku eyed Inuyasha suspiciously, though they made no comment as everyone got to their feet.
“Okay then,” Sango blushed as Inuyasha returned her stare with one of his own, “Let’s see this place Inuyasha mentioned and then get going. It’ll take a couple of days to get to the mountain of the Wolf Youkai Tribe, so we should aim to meet back here within four days.”
********************
Kagome laughed, enjoying the feel of the wind whipping through her hair as Inuyasha ran along the treetops. Closing her eyes, Kagome enjoyed the sensation of weightlessness as the hanyou at last left the lofty kingdom of stars, falling softly to the earth below despite the enormous height. Breathless from the decent, Kagome hugged her carrier from behind, giggling in excitement, “ That was great!”
Inuyasha chuckled, “Baka girl, I was trying to scare you, not give you a thrill!”
Kagome grinned, “I can’t help it! When you run, I feel like I’m flying!” Proving her point, she recklessly spread out her arms, tightening her legs around Inuyasha’s waist.
Holding on to her legs, Inuyasha sped up, being careful to run as smoothly as possible so the girl on his back wouldn’t sway too much, risking a fall. With a mischievous gleam in his eyes, Inuyasha spotted a small cliff with about a five foot drop beyond it. Tightening his grip on Kagome, Inuyasha leapt into the air, earning a small shriek from his passenger.
Kagome threw her arms around Inuyasha’s neck, causing him to lean too far forward as he landed. Unable to correct himself, Inuyasha hit the ground, breaking his fall with outstretched arms. Kagome removed her pack and weapon as she rolled off Inuyasha’s back to the ground beside him. Turning over to make sure she was alright, he was surprised to see her smiling, eyes sparkling in delight.
“You’re better than a roller-coaster!” Kagome told him in a breathy voice.
Shaking his head, Inuyasha grinned, “Doesn’t anything scare you, woman?”
Kagome reached up to tweak his ear, “Not with you around,”
Inuyasha closed his eyes with a soft sigh. He’d always hated having his ears touched, especially when Kagome wanted to rub them. With anyone else, there was always the fear of them pulling, and he was far too proud to admit that his ears were a source of weakness. He’d grown indifferent to the playful tweaks from Sango, Shippou and even Miroku, though he acted offended that his tough guy routine didn’t fool them.
Whenever Kagome touched his ears, the sensation sent currents of electricity through Inuyasha’s body, as if every nerve in him were connected to those two tiny darts. There was something far too pleasant about the feeling. Knowing where it would lead if he allowed her to continue, he grabbed her hand away and leaned over her to trap her arms between them. Inuyasha growled playfully, “Kagome...?”
The girl stopped giggling as Inuyasha kissed her gently, “What...?”
Kissing her cheeks, her forehead, her nose, Inuyasha repeated her name, “Kagome...?”
Kagome sighed, “Uh-huh...?”
Looking down at her through heavy-lidded eyes, Inuyasha mumbled, “What’s a roller-coaster?”
Eyes widening in surprise, Kagome stared for a minute, before composing her face into an expression of mock anger, “A roller-coaster? Is that all you had on your mind?” Pulling her arms free, she hit his chest as he rolled over with laughter. Kagome laughed too, until a sudden presence drew her attention, making her gasp in surprise, “Sesshoumaru!”
Inuyasha was lifted off his feet, eye level with his half brother.
“You let your guard down, brother. Your bitch wouldn’t be much use to you dead, now would she?” Sesshoumaru’s face gave no indication as to whether he was serious or not.
“Dammit Sesshoumaru! Leave Kagome alone!” Inuyasha attempted to struggle out of the youkai’s grip, but was unable to break free.
Sesshoumaru chuckled softly, a corner of his mouth turning up in a cruel smile, “Do not worry, Inuyasha. This Sesshoumaru, has no intention of trifling with your bitch. My business is with you.”
“Let him go, Sesshoumaru,” Kagome had retrieved her bow and an arrow was now aimed directly at the elder brother’s chest. “From this range, I won’t miss.”
Amusement lit Sesshoumaru’s eyes. ‘Perhaps it is this curious quality - this devotion - that attracted my father and baka half-brother to mortal women.’ The Lord of the Western Lands stepped closer to Kagome, who did not move an inch. With a nod, acknowledging the mortal’s determination, Sesshoumaru met her eyes, “Girl, do you think that had This Sesshoumaru, intended to kill Inuyasha tonight, that he would still breath?”
Noting with interest the look of understanding in Kagome’s eyes, Sesshoumaru turned his attention back to his brother. “Hanyou, This Sesshoumaru requires only one thing from you - the whereabouts of Naraku.”
Inuyasha was furious as his brother placed him on the ground, “What makes you think I’d tell you that?”
Sesshoumaru was quiet as he stared at Inuyasha. Nodding once, he turned, “I see. So you do not know.” Beginning to walk away, he paused as Kagome called to him.
“Sesshoumaru!” Kagome had lowered her weapon and taken a step towards the youkai, “We intend to lure him out. We’re gathering the remaining Jewel shards now.”
The great Lord turned to eye the girl. Usually, his attitude towards mortals was like that of a dog to a flea. Yet there was something about this girl that intrigued him. There was a power in her far greater than any he had witnessed in a hundred years, though she had not yet realized it herself. Turning to face Kagome, he made her a nearly imperceptible bow with his head.
Inuyasha waited until his brother had disappeared into the forest before whirling on Kagome, “What the fuck did you tell him that for?”
Kagome furrowed her eyebrows, “He’s strong, right? He wants to destroy Naraku as much as we do! If we tell him what we know, maybe he’ll show up to help us.”
Inuyasha snorted, “If that bastard did anything for anybody but himself, I’d eat my sword.”
Kagome rolled her eyes, “Well, whether he’s helping us or himself, we’re stronger if there are more of us.” A crash of thunder made her jump.
Scooping her up and running towards the shelter of the overhanging cliff, Inuyasha stared at Kagome, “What, now you’re scared?”
Kagome glared up at him, “I’m am not! It just... startled me.” Another thunder clap elicited a squeak from the girl, making Inuyasha grin at her. “Oh, shut up! Go get some firewood, will you?”
By the time Inuyasha returned with enough wood for a fire wrapped safely in his haori, the night sky had exploded with the wrath of the Kami. Clouds had quickly overcome the starlit sky, and they now wept in sorrow. Lightening briefly illuminated the shelter where Kagome had set up camp while waiting for Inuyasha. The thunder that followed was loud and fierce.
Inuyasha built a fire while Kagome went through her pack. She had two bottles of water. Definitely not enough to waste making Ramen. Besides that, she had several granola bars, a bag of beef jerky, a box of chocolate pocky and some dried fruit. Decided that this would have to do for tonight, Kagome set out the food in front of her on the sleeping bag just as the fire began to heat their shelter.
Grumbling, Inuyasha stared at the food choices. Finally grabbing the beef jerky and the box of pocky, he disappeared into the rain for a moment before returning with a stick. Grinning at the shriek he got from Kagome when he shook the water off himself, Inuyasha sat down again and dug a couple pieces of jerky out of the bag.
Kagome shook her head as Inuyasha speared the dried meat on the end of the stick and held it over the flames, heating it. After deeming that an appropriate amount of time had passed, Inuyasha tested the jerky with his claw. Grinning at the result, he began eating meat.
“How does it taste?” She asked as she placed another piece of dried apricot in her mouth.
“S’good,” Inuyasha chewed, offering her the last piece of meat on the stick.
Kagome wrinkled her nose and stared, before shrugging and accepting the food. Taking a tentative bite, she chewed slowly. The meat had grown softer from the heat of the fire, and had a smoky taste. Nodding her approval, she watched as Inuyasha prepared some more jerky for cooking, munching on a piece of pocky as he did so.
Hours passed and the storm showed no sign of abating. Lying huddled near the fire in her sleeping bag, Kagome shivered, despite the heat.
“Thought you weren’t afraid of the storm?” A voice teased from near her feet.
“I’m n-n-not,” Kagome’s teeth were chattering. “Normally, I love the rain. I’m just still not used to being outside where lightning could strike.”
Inuyasha moved to lie down beside her. Wrapping an arm around her waist, he drew her closer, planting a kiss on top of her head, “Don’t worry,” he grumbled in a rough voice, “You’re safe with me.”
Kagome smiled and yawned, “I know.”
Later in the night, the storm ended. The sound of water dripping from the branches woke Kagome, who realized that Inuyasha was still wrapped around her. Carefully moving away so he’d be more comfortable, she tried not to wake him as she scooted over to her right.
Inuyasha’s arm snaked out, grabbing her and pulling her back, “Mine.”
Kagome smiled happily, thinking he had to be asleep. “Really, Inuyasha?” She asked quietly in the darkness.
A low chuckle answered her as Inuyasha nuzzled his face against the soft pillow of her hair, “Go to sleep, bitch.”
And she did.
******************
Shippou carefully sniffed the air, “I think Kohaku might have been here! Yeah, I’m sure of it!” He exclaimed.
Miroku was careful to guard his expression from the kitsune. He knew that it was important for the young youkai to feel that he was helping, even though the monk knew precisely what Inuyasha’s real reason had been for sending Shippou with them. Miroku had to credit him. Something had definitely caused a change in the hanyou. If he wanted some time alone with Kagome, that could only be a positive sign, as far as Miroku was concerned. ‘Unfortunately,’ he thought with a sigh, ‘it just means that I have to sacrifice time alone with Sango.’
Smiling, he remembered two days ago, when he had said as much to Sango in their last moment alone together before leaving to find Kohaku. Though the taijiya had blushed nicely, her answer had been flippant.
“Like it would make a difference, Houshi. Besides, Kirara’s always there.”
Miroku had watched her leave before turning to the nekomata. “You’re on my side, aren’t you Kirara?”
The two-tail had hissed at him.
Miroku was drawn out of the memory as Kirara landed softly, allowing her passengers to dismount. Sango and the monk exchanged glances as Shippou raced ahead, nose to the ground in an exact imitation of their half-youkai friend. The kitsune’s quest led him to the door of a farm
house. Knocking softly, Sango stepped back and waited.
A small, elderly woman appeared at the door, “Yes?”
Sango bowed to her, “Excuse me, Obaa-san(1). We are searching for my younger brother, who has been separated from us....” Sango continued, describing Kohaku in detail. She was surprised when the woman said that she had seen him, and recently.
“In fact, just two nights ago. I found him near the village well and he looked hungry. I offered him dinner and a bed for the night if he would chop some firewood for me” the old woman smiled.
“Please, can you tell us what direction he left in, Obaa-san?” Miroku wondered if it were still possible to find the boy, now that they had come so close.
Sadly, the woman shook her head, “I’m afraid not, Houshi-sama. When I awoke the next morning, he had gone. He’d even chopped enough wood to last me a month!” Smiling, she reached a hand to Sango, “I’m sorry dear. I hope you find your brother. Such a well-mannered boy.”
Sango’s eyes filled with tears as she thanked the woman and turned to leave.
“Wait, just a moment... I seem to recall...” The old woman tapped the finger on the side of her head as the group waited expectantly. “Ah, yes! He told me that he had been living in the forest, and that he was seeking someone as he traveled from village to village.” The woman eyed them carefully, “I hadn’t seen this person he’d described, but it doesn’t match any of you. Now, why would that be?”
Sango and Miroku exchanged looks, before Miroku bowed, “Arigato, Obaa-chan. Our brother may be injured, and confused. It is important that we find him. If you happen to see him again, would you give him word that his sister has friends at the shrine near Edo(2), who desperately need his assistance. He should look for the Miko, Kaede.”
The woman nodded, agreeing to their request.
As they walked away, Shippou began sniffing the earth again. “This way!” Jumping up he raced in the direction of the forest. With a shrug, the monk and taijiya followed. They didn’t have anything to lose and the youkai seemed to be on a roll.
“Any ideas, Houshi-sama?” Sango reminded herself not to be hopeful, but she couldn’t help feeling relieved. As of two days ago, her brother was still alive and in this village.
Miroku seemed to know what she was thinking, “ It appears that our hopes have not been in vain. If Kohaku is indeed traveling through the forest between villages, I suggest that we plant your signals for him among the trees, and leave word at the next village over. I doubt he’s made it that far yet.” Reaching out, Miroku took Sango’s hand, giving it a tender squeeze, “If no one in the next village has seen Kohaku, we shall stay the night there. After that, we must return to meet Inuyasha and Kagome and hope that Kohaku finds us.”
Calling for Shippou to wait a moment, Sango retrieved the items she needed to prepare messages for her brother. Asking the kitsune’s help, she soon had a large pile of sticks in front of her, as well as a supply of leaves that she had rolled up and tied with a small piece of twine.
Kirara flew them halfway into the forest, stopping on a footpath among the trees.
Shippou tested the air around them, “I’m pretty sure he hasn’t been here yet.”
Sango nodded, “I’m hoping that he hasn’t gotten this far yet. I didn’t see him below as we passed over, although I didn’t expect to. Kohaku is too good at being cautious by now.” Giving her companions their assignments, Sango quickly began carrying out her plan to contact her brother.
When finally, after two hours of walking, the group reached the next village, Miroku, Sango, Shippou and Kirara soon discovered that Kohaku had not been seen anywhere. As Miroku had suggested, the quartet made arrangements to stay the night with the Village Head.
After assuring the village leader that the ‘dark presence’ he’d sensed earlier had been vanquished, Miroku accepted the man’s thanks and thanked him in return for his hospitality. Ignoring the annoyed look Sango shot him as he joined the others for dinner, Miroku ate quietly, knowing that the less he said, the sooner Sango would cease being angry with him for his deceit.
After she’d had enough food, Sango excused herself, telling Miroku that she wanted to take a walk before bed. Wrapping her arms around her torso for warmth, Sango walked slowly, staring at the ground in front of her. ‘Where are you, Kohaku?’ She was worried about her brother. It had been some time since she’d last seen him. Still dressed in her exterminator uniform, Sango reached beneath her armor to remove the locket Kagome had given her. Inside was a lock of hair, the exact same shade of brown as her own.
Sango remembered the look on Inuyasha’s face when he had given it to her.
“I’m sorry Sango, I couldn’t stop him....”(3)
Inuyasha had gone in search of Kikyou, who had revealed to him her theory that the only way for Naraku to be defeated was through the completion of the Shikon no Tama. Kohaku had overheard the conversation, and had determinedly set out in search of Naraku on his own. Before he’d disappeared through a barrier that Inuyasha could not break, the boy had given the hanyou the lock of his hair for Sango. Everyone had known what it meant. Kohaku did not expect to see them alive again.
Now there was a chance. Not only for Sango to see her brother again, but perhaps, to save his life. ‘But if Kikyou is right... how can I still hope to save Kohaku?’
Sitting down on a grassy hillside, still slick from last nights storm, Sango drew her knees to her chest. Folding her arms on top of them, she hid her face in the hollow made by her arms. She would not cry. Naraku had caused her enough tears to last a lifetime.
“May I join you?” Miroku stood back respectfully, waiting for her answer. Thinking that she was angrier with him than usual, Miroku had decided to follow her. Now he realized that their were other things weighing on her mind. At her slight nod, he sat close beside her, staring at the moon as it struggled to be seen over the line of trees in the distance. He didn’t expect her to talk. Sango wasn’t always one to share the pain hidden in her heart. Sitting beside her in silence, Miroku searched for something to give her hope and heal the torment of her soul. To his surprise, she spoke first.
“Do I have any hope of saving him?” Sango’s voice was steady, but quiet.
Miroku thought over his answer, “Kagome says that Kikyou believes Naraku can only be killed by completing the Jewel and destroying them both together. I am not sure that this is so. It is against my nature to believe that evil can walk this earth, without the Kami providing a means of banishing it.”
Sango turned to him, “She plans to use him - and Kouga, as bait. Naraku will come to take the Jewel shards... and Kohaku will die. Is there any other way to protect him from this fate?”
“ Kohaku has made it clear that his only goal is to destroy those who enslaved his soul and caused the deaths of your people. If this is his aim, and he has no fear of death, wouldn’t it be better for him to join us? Then, were he to fall, at least his soul will be freed from the guilt he now bears.”
“He’s just a boy, Miroku. So much has been taken from him - from all of us, already.”
Miroku nodded, “Yes, we have all sacrificed much at Naraku’s hands. It is time it ended.” The monk examined the glove that covered his right hand, fingering the rosary beads that sealed his curse. “I do not expect to survive this battle. I wonder if any of us will. But with my dying breath if need be, I will see Naraku defeated. In that, none of us will fail. If all of us are lost in the undertaking, it will be worth it to cleanse the world of this great evil.”
Sango reached out and shyly brushed his hair from his eyes. Miroku was surprised at the gesture. Meeting her gaze, he stood, taking her hands in his.
“ I love you, Houshi-sama.” Sango blushed to say what was in her heart.
Miroku smiled sadly, “As I love you, my Sango. If there is anything in this world worth living for, it is you.” Miroku kissed her gently as tears fell softly from her eyes. Their first kiss... sweet, yet passionate as he pulled her closer in to his arms. He’d longed to do this for so long - to feel her warmth against him and taste the fulness of her lips.
As a Monk, Miroku was used to giving solace to those in pain, and had been trained to know the best way to offer guidance. For once, his duty and his desire were united in purpose. Sango’s soft sigh ignited the desire in his soul, and he moaned quietly, pulling away from the intoxicating taste of her mouth.
“Sango...” he breathed forcefully. “You know better than any that I am not quite the pure monk I pretend to be. Were I to allow myself the pleasure of your touch any longer, I fear I would be unable to forgive myself later.”
Blushing, Sango nodded. Hand in hand, the two walked back to where Shippou and Kirara were already sound asleep, curled together for warmth.
Making sure to place himself on the opposite side of the room from Sango, Miroku waited for sleep to come upon him, knowing that it would be some time indeed, before he relaxed enough to succumb to it’s embrace.
*****************
The day had cooled considerably as night fell over the forest. The glow from the moon was just bright enough to clearly light his way as Kohaku once more took to the main road. The young exterminator rarely traveled on the normal footpaths. It was easier to be seen on the road, especially if Naraku’s Saimyoushou(4) were searching for him. Tonight though, the boy’s feet hurt from walking barefoot over the ground in the thickness of the forest, and he longed to gain some distance under the cover of darkness.
On the last night he had seen his sister and her companions, the Jewel shard in his back had begun to throb with an energy of its own. Kohaku had sensed the shards desire to rejoin the other pieces, to become whole once more, and for Naraku to finally fall. The boy had a duty - to himself, his sister, and the family and friends he’d slain under Naraku’s control. He’d headed off in the direction the shard guided, desperate to make amends for the terrible thing’s he’d done, though he’d been helpless to fight.
Recently, the shard had ceased to guide him towards Naraku. Unsure as to what had brought the change, Kohaku continued to travel in the same direction he had been heading before the almost magnetic pull from the Shikon no Tama had stopped. Uncertain as to his destination, Kohaku realized he had no other choice but to carry on. Soon, either he would find Naraku and Mouryoumaru, or they would come for him.
Noticing something odd to the side of the road, Kohaku moved closer to examine it. Two sticks had been placed together. One was parallel to his foot and the other, broken in the middle, was horizontal to him, creating the shape of an arrow, pointing straight ahead.
A memory teased at Kohaku’s mind. What was it? Closing his eyes, the boy thought back. Why did this signal seem so familiar to him?
That was it! A signal! An image of himself, sitting with his father and sister sprung into his mind.
“If you’re ever separated from the group, this is a simple method for leaving a message for the others to find you. It’s old, and rarely used, but any one of us would recognize it, and so should you.”
Smiling sadly of the memory of his father, Kohaku stared in wonder at the signal below him. Could it really be? Counting off five feet, he looked again and saw another arrow, still pointing straight ahead. Hurrying now, the exterminator followed a series of arrows until one set of markers appeared different than the others. Still two sticks, these ones were crossed, forming an ‘X’.
Kohaku grinned as he searched the first tree on the opposite side of the rode. The locator method was one of the cleverer ones invented by his people. So ordinary that regular travelers would never even notice it, yet so clear that anyone who knew the code could easily follow it to it’s end. Finally, he found what he was looking for. Tied to one of the lower branches was a rolled up leaf, tied with a blade of grass. Pulling it towards him, he stepped into a brighter patch of light and unrolled the message his sister had left him.
“Otouto(5) - The battle begins in Musashi. Come to the shrine near Edo and ask for the miko Kaede. You are needed here quickly. - Ane-ue(6)”
Kohaku smiled and immediately headed in the direction his sister had indicated. Once again, the siblings would fight side by side. ‘Only now,’ Kohaku thought as he began running, ‘things will be different.’
*************************************************************************** ***
Chapter Glossary:
1. Obaa-san - Familiar way of saying “grandmother”, or “old woman”.
2. Edo - The ancient name for Tokyo. Kaede’s village was probably several hours away by foot from the city of Edo. In Kagome’s time, the area that was once Kaede’s village has been added to Tokyo’s urban sprawl.
3. “I’m sorry Sango, I couldn’t stop him....” - Direct quote from the manga. Vol. 38, Ch. 378.
4. Saimyoushou - Naraku’s poisonous insects. Literally, ‘Hell’s Insects’.
5. Otouto - Japanese for ‘younger brother.’
6. Ane-ue - Literally means, ‘big sister, above me’. It’s an archaic term for older sister and Kohaku uses it in reference to Sango.
A/N: Almost all of the characters in this story are brought to you by the genius of Rumiko Takahashi and the letters M, I and R. I do not own the characters, they own me.
“Kikyou said that you’d know how to help her,” Inuyasha concluded, looking hopeful, “Is Kagome... will she be all right?”
Rising, the old miko lifted a pot of boiling water from the fire. Pouring it into a cup containing an herbal mixture, Kaede returned to her patient. “Inuyasha, sit behind Kagome and raise her up so that she can drink.” The hanyou complied and Kaede slowly fed her the tea, “There. The drink I have just given her should counteract the remains of the poison. She’ll be fine by morning.”
Inuyasha slipped out from beneath Kagome’s head, allowing her to lie flat again. Already, she appeared to be more at ease. The wrinkle that had creased her face with pain had diminished and the color began to rise in her cheeks. Settling himself in for a long night, Inuyasha leaned back against the wall beside Kagome’s head, watching over her as she slept.
Kaede examined the half-youkai. “Inuyasha, she will sleep for hours yet. Ye needn’t neglect thine own health by sitting up all night.”
“Keh,” Inuyasha had no intention of leaving her side tonight.
With a sigh, Kaede just shook her head. She remembered Inuyasha from more than fifty years ago, before her elder sister Kikyou had pinned him to Goshinboku. The being she had known then was far different from the one who now sat beside her sister’s reincarnation. The beauty of the girl’s spirit had given new life to the half-demon, and Kaede hoped that someday, when the threat to their lives had passed, these two could come to see one another for what they truly were. ‘Maybe then,’ she thought, ‘Kikyou onee-sama will be able to find peace as well.’
From outside, a soft noise announced the arrival of visitors. Stepping outside the hut, Kaede moved forward to welcome Sango, Miroku, Shippou and Kirara, “She sleeps peacefully,” the miko informed them before they could ask. “Inuyasha is with her.”
Sitting around the dying fire outside of Kaede’s hut, Miroku and Sango shared with the old woman what they knew of the journey. Kaede was not surprised to hear about the displays of Kagome’s power. “Kikyou onee-sama was a powerful Miko, and Kagome possesses great energy in her own right. Miroku, ye were wise to recognize that she would need time to prepare to handle such power. Kagome herself, has no idea to what lengths her power may grow.”
Kaede shook her head, sadly, “In fact, I see now that I may have been the cause of her present torment. The stone that I gave her to meditate with should have helped Kagome relax her mind, allowing her to sleep. It seems that in this situation, the stone relaxed her mind and allowed the seed Mouryoumaru had implanted to take firmer hold, causing her nightmares to become even stronger,” A bitter look appeared on Kaede’s face, “I should have questioned her more about her afflictions. I hope the child will forgive the foolishness of an old woman.”
“Would ya cut that out?” Inuyasha appeared from inside the hut, “So you didn’t have all the information you needed. There’s no way you could have known what had happened, any more than the rest of us. You did what you thought was right, and that’s all you can do, so shut the hell up!” Inuyasha scowled at the woman as she smiled at him in surprise. His voice softened, “Besides, if anyone’s to blame, it’s me,” His ears drooped as he explained, “I didn’t protect her from Mouryoumaru, and he not only managed to get his hands on her, he put a piece of himself...” Inuyasha trailed off in disgust, pain coloring his voice, “ That day I sent her back to her own time and blocked the well... if she’d just stayed there, if she’d never come back....”
Sango rose and approached Inuyasha, “Would you have wanted that? For her to disappear so that you’d never see her again?”
Inuyasha’s eyes flashed, but he spoke calmly, “At least she’d be fucking safe.”
Sango shook her head in frustration, “All Kagome’s ever wanted was for you to love her! She’s always felt safe with you.”
Inuyasha stared at her, uncertain. Unable to believe. Without a word, he returned to his place at Kagome’s side. Gazing tenderly at her face, Inuyasha shook his head, sadly. How could she love him? He only ever seemed to hurt her. Wishing he could take all her pain on himself, Inuyasha fell asleep in his usual position of watchfulness.
******************
“Kagome!” Shippou flung himself at her the moment her eyes fluttered open, “You’re awake! Do you feel okay?”
Kagome laughed, “I’m fine, Shippou!”
“Oi! Brat! Let her breathe!” The kitsune struggled as Inuyasha picked him up by his tail and deposited him further away from Kagome.
Inuyasha’s eyes were filled with concern, “You okay, Kagome?”
She nodded, sitting upright, “What happened?”
Shippou crawled back into her lap as Inuyasha went over everything they had discovered after hearing her scream.
Inuyasha looked at the ground, ears falling, “I’m sorry, Kagome. You asked me if I trusted her and...”
“Don’t apologize.” Kagome frowned and shook her head, “I told you it was okay to leave me there, and I guess if it wasn’t for her, I’d still have that... thing inside me,” Kagome shuddered.
Inuyasha met her eyes, “It’s not just that. I.... None of this would have happened if Mouryoumaru hadn’t gotten his... tentacles on you,” He winced, refusing to meet her eyes, “No matter how hard I try to protect you, something will always happen that I can’t prevent. Even I hurt you,” Inuyasha sighed, looking away again, “Sometimes... I think you’d be better off without me. Hell, you’d certainly be a lot safer.”
Kagome grabbed his hand, surprising him, “No! Inuyasha.... Don’t you understand how... important you are to me? I might be safer, sure - but I definitely wouldn’t be better off! Besides, it was my decision to stay with you. So if something happens to me, it’s because I decided I wanted to be here, needed to be... with you. It’s what I want.”
Suddenly bashful, Kagome looked down at the astonished youkai on her lap. “How do you feel about a bath, Shippou?” Getting up, she went to search for her pack, which Sango had brought back for her.
Inuyasha turned to stare at her as she left the hut, “Kagome....” He whispered in surprise. Suddenly, he dared to hope.
******************
The sky threatened rain as March gave way to April. Kagome sat under Goshinboku, thankful that she had packed the jeans and white long-sleeved shirt she now wore. Breathing deeply, enjoying the smell of air thick with moisture, Kagome refocused her mind on the meditation exercises Kaede had given her that morning.
Suddenly aware of the presence of a youkai above her, Kagome opened her eyes in alarm, just as she recognized the soothing aura of her best friend. Tilting her head back, she looked up to see Inuyasha staring down at her with a playful grin. “Thought you could sneak up on me, didn’t you?”
Kagome laughed as the hanyou suddenly jumped to the ground, scooped her up and leapt back to his usual branch high in The Sacred Tree. “I’m supposed to be meditating,” She protested weakly.
Inuyasha chuckled, “Meditate later. Me now.” Praying she wouldn’t ‘sit’ him for it, he leaned forward and brushed her hair to one side, gently kissing the back of her neck.
Kagome closed her eyes, deciding that meditation could wait just a few more minutes.
Inuyasha worked his way around, kissing the side of her throat before gently grasping an earlobe between his teeth. Her gasp, of surprise release something within him. “I was worried about you,” he murmured softly.
Kagome wasn’t sure if her brain was connected to her mouth anymore. “You... were?”
“Uh-huh,” Kissing down her neck again, he pulled the material of her shirt away from her shoulder, sighing softly as he kissed the unmarred flesh, “I was afraid I’d lost you.” Within his chest, words he’d longed to tell her began to stir. Irritated at his weakness, ever for Kagome, Inuyasha allowed himself to be content with this first attempt to convey to the girl how much she meant to him. She hadn’t pushed him away in terror or disgust, but he still was not confident enough to tell her that he would die if he lost her.
A shiver made its way through Kagome. The moment felt surreal to her, and the shift in Inuyasha’s behavior was so much like the dreams she’d had, that for a minute Kagome began to believe that she’d dozed off while meditating. Suddenly, forgotten images from that night reappeared in her head, “Kikyou!”
Inuyasha paused, confused, “Huh?”
Shaking herself, Kagome turned in Inuyasha’s lap, causing him to groan aloud, “Careful woman, or I’ll drop you,” he warned huskily.
Kagome frowned at him, suddenly focused, “Inuyasha, listen. We have to find the others. We have to discuss some of the things that Kikyou and I talked about!”
Inuyasha pouted, “And we have to do this right now?”
Something inside Kagome screamed for her to relent, but she knew that certain things had to take priority. She nodded, making him sigh loudly to express his disappointment. He got her down from the tree and she turned to run off towards the village.
Catching her hand, he pulled her back to him, “This isn’t over, bitch.” He threatened her with a grin.
Kagome blushed, a smile spreading over her face, “If you’re lucky!” She teased, pulling her hand free and taking off at a run. She had no idea what had come over the hanyou, but for once, she smiled at the thought that he would be the frustrated one.
“Oi! You won’t get off that easily!” Sprinting after her, Inuyasha found himself smiling. ‘Maybe Sango was right after all.’
******************
Miroku stared at Kagome for a moment, pondering what she had just told them, “If what Kikyou says is true, then we have no time to waste. We must immediately form a plan of action.”
Kagome nodded, “Right. Kikyou said to gather the remaining shards. I think what we need to do is find Kouga and Kohaku and bring them here. Since we haven’t had any luck finding Naraku or Mouryoumaru, it seems likely that if the three remaining shards are here, sooner or later, they’ll have to come to us!”
Inuyasha scowled, “You mean just fucking wait around?”
Sango looked thoughtful, “If we have time to plan it, this could work to our benefit,” All eyes turned to the demon exterminator. As the only one among them experienced with group fighting tactics, the rest of them knew that if anyone could make such a risky situation pay off, it was Sango. “We’d need to find an open area, nearby so that we still have access to the village.”
Now all were facing Inuyasha, who knew the area better than anyone. The hanyou frowned, thoughtfully, “Well... there is this one place... about five miles from here. I used to watch Kikyou practice her archery there.”
Sango shot a quick glance at Kagome, who remained expressionless, before nodding, “Good. I’ll need to see it.”
“Then it seems that our first priority, after Sango views the battle field, should be to send parties out to find Kouga and Kohaku.” Miroku addressed Kagome, “Finding Kouga should be easy. All you have to do is travel within range of the Wolf Youkai Tribe’s lair and he should come running to you.” In response to the low growl issuing from Inuyasha, Miroku added, “of course, Inuyasha will be with you to make sure Kouga doesn’t get the wrong idea.”
Kagome agreed, “And you and Sango should go after Kohaku, although I’m not sure how you’ll find him,” she looked to Sango worriedly.
Sango sighed, “There may be a way. If Kohaku has truly recovered all of his memory, there is an old method used by my people for locating one another, if separated. Even if we can’t locate him physically, We can travel around just enough to see if he’s been seen in the villages, and attempt to contact him my way, if necessary.” Frowning, Sango continued, “However, it’s possibly that, with all this activity, Naraku will figure out that something’s up.”
Inuyasha looked determined, “Good. Then he’ll definitely be coming.” Looking at Shippou, Inuyasha suggested nonchalantly, “You two should take the runt with you. He might be able to sniff out Kohaku for you since I’m not there.”
Shippou puffed his chest out proudly at the compliment. Sango and Miroku eyed Inuyasha suspiciously, though they made no comment as everyone got to their feet.
“Okay then,” Sango blushed as Inuyasha returned her stare with one of his own, “Let’s see this place Inuyasha mentioned and then get going. It’ll take a couple of days to get to the mountain of the Wolf Youkai Tribe, so we should aim to meet back here within four days.”
********************
Kagome laughed, enjoying the feel of the wind whipping through her hair as Inuyasha ran along the treetops. Closing her eyes, Kagome enjoyed the sensation of weightlessness as the hanyou at last left the lofty kingdom of stars, falling softly to the earth below despite the enormous height. Breathless from the decent, Kagome hugged her carrier from behind, giggling in excitement, “ That was great!”
Inuyasha chuckled, “Baka girl, I was trying to scare you, not give you a thrill!”
Kagome grinned, “I can’t help it! When you run, I feel like I’m flying!” Proving her point, she recklessly spread out her arms, tightening her legs around Inuyasha’s waist.
Holding on to her legs, Inuyasha sped up, being careful to run as smoothly as possible so the girl on his back wouldn’t sway too much, risking a fall. With a mischievous gleam in his eyes, Inuyasha spotted a small cliff with about a five foot drop beyond it. Tightening his grip on Kagome, Inuyasha leapt into the air, earning a small shriek from his passenger.
Kagome threw her arms around Inuyasha’s neck, causing him to lean too far forward as he landed. Unable to correct himself, Inuyasha hit the ground, breaking his fall with outstretched arms. Kagome removed her pack and weapon as she rolled off Inuyasha’s back to the ground beside him. Turning over to make sure she was alright, he was surprised to see her smiling, eyes sparkling in delight.
“You’re better than a roller-coaster!” Kagome told him in a breathy voice.
Shaking his head, Inuyasha grinned, “Doesn’t anything scare you, woman?”
Kagome reached up to tweak his ear, “Not with you around,”
Inuyasha closed his eyes with a soft sigh. He’d always hated having his ears touched, especially when Kagome wanted to rub them. With anyone else, there was always the fear of them pulling, and he was far too proud to admit that his ears were a source of weakness. He’d grown indifferent to the playful tweaks from Sango, Shippou and even Miroku, though he acted offended that his tough guy routine didn’t fool them.
Whenever Kagome touched his ears, the sensation sent currents of electricity through Inuyasha’s body, as if every nerve in him were connected to those two tiny darts. There was something far too pleasant about the feeling. Knowing where it would lead if he allowed her to continue, he grabbed her hand away and leaned over her to trap her arms between them. Inuyasha growled playfully, “Kagome...?”
The girl stopped giggling as Inuyasha kissed her gently, “What...?”
Kissing her cheeks, her forehead, her nose, Inuyasha repeated her name, “Kagome...?”
Kagome sighed, “Uh-huh...?”
Looking down at her through heavy-lidded eyes, Inuyasha mumbled, “What’s a roller-coaster?”
Eyes widening in surprise, Kagome stared for a minute, before composing her face into an expression of mock anger, “A roller-coaster? Is that all you had on your mind?” Pulling her arms free, she hit his chest as he rolled over with laughter. Kagome laughed too, until a sudden presence drew her attention, making her gasp in surprise, “Sesshoumaru!”
Inuyasha was lifted off his feet, eye level with his half brother.
“You let your guard down, brother. Your bitch wouldn’t be much use to you dead, now would she?” Sesshoumaru’s face gave no indication as to whether he was serious or not.
“Dammit Sesshoumaru! Leave Kagome alone!” Inuyasha attempted to struggle out of the youkai’s grip, but was unable to break free.
Sesshoumaru chuckled softly, a corner of his mouth turning up in a cruel smile, “Do not worry, Inuyasha. This Sesshoumaru, has no intention of trifling with your bitch. My business is with you.”
“Let him go, Sesshoumaru,” Kagome had retrieved her bow and an arrow was now aimed directly at the elder brother’s chest. “From this range, I won’t miss.”
Amusement lit Sesshoumaru’s eyes. ‘Perhaps it is this curious quality - this devotion - that attracted my father and baka half-brother to mortal women.’ The Lord of the Western Lands stepped closer to Kagome, who did not move an inch. With a nod, acknowledging the mortal’s determination, Sesshoumaru met her eyes, “Girl, do you think that had This Sesshoumaru, intended to kill Inuyasha tonight, that he would still breath?”
Noting with interest the look of understanding in Kagome’s eyes, Sesshoumaru turned his attention back to his brother. “Hanyou, This Sesshoumaru requires only one thing from you - the whereabouts of Naraku.”
Inuyasha was furious as his brother placed him on the ground, “What makes you think I’d tell you that?”
Sesshoumaru was quiet as he stared at Inuyasha. Nodding once, he turned, “I see. So you do not know.” Beginning to walk away, he paused as Kagome called to him.
“Sesshoumaru!” Kagome had lowered her weapon and taken a step towards the youkai, “We intend to lure him out. We’re gathering the remaining Jewel shards now.”
The great Lord turned to eye the girl. Usually, his attitude towards mortals was like that of a dog to a flea. Yet there was something about this girl that intrigued him. There was a power in her far greater than any he had witnessed in a hundred years, though she had not yet realized it herself. Turning to face Kagome, he made her a nearly imperceptible bow with his head.
Inuyasha waited until his brother had disappeared into the forest before whirling on Kagome, “What the fuck did you tell him that for?”
Kagome furrowed her eyebrows, “He’s strong, right? He wants to destroy Naraku as much as we do! If we tell him what we know, maybe he’ll show up to help us.”
Inuyasha snorted, “If that bastard did anything for anybody but himself, I’d eat my sword.”
Kagome rolled her eyes, “Well, whether he’s helping us or himself, we’re stronger if there are more of us.” A crash of thunder made her jump.
Scooping her up and running towards the shelter of the overhanging cliff, Inuyasha stared at Kagome, “What, now you’re scared?”
Kagome glared up at him, “I’m am not! It just... startled me.” Another thunder clap elicited a squeak from the girl, making Inuyasha grin at her. “Oh, shut up! Go get some firewood, will you?”
By the time Inuyasha returned with enough wood for a fire wrapped safely in his haori, the night sky had exploded with the wrath of the Kami. Clouds had quickly overcome the starlit sky, and they now wept in sorrow. Lightening briefly illuminated the shelter where Kagome had set up camp while waiting for Inuyasha. The thunder that followed was loud and fierce.
Inuyasha built a fire while Kagome went through her pack. She had two bottles of water. Definitely not enough to waste making Ramen. Besides that, she had several granola bars, a bag of beef jerky, a box of chocolate pocky and some dried fruit. Decided that this would have to do for tonight, Kagome set out the food in front of her on the sleeping bag just as the fire began to heat their shelter.
Grumbling, Inuyasha stared at the food choices. Finally grabbing the beef jerky and the box of pocky, he disappeared into the rain for a moment before returning with a stick. Grinning at the shriek he got from Kagome when he shook the water off himself, Inuyasha sat down again and dug a couple pieces of jerky out of the bag.
Kagome shook her head as Inuyasha speared the dried meat on the end of the stick and held it over the flames, heating it. After deeming that an appropriate amount of time had passed, Inuyasha tested the jerky with his claw. Grinning at the result, he began eating meat.
“How does it taste?” She asked as she placed another piece of dried apricot in her mouth.
“S’good,” Inuyasha chewed, offering her the last piece of meat on the stick.
Kagome wrinkled her nose and stared, before shrugging and accepting the food. Taking a tentative bite, she chewed slowly. The meat had grown softer from the heat of the fire, and had a smoky taste. Nodding her approval, she watched as Inuyasha prepared some more jerky for cooking, munching on a piece of pocky as he did so.
Hours passed and the storm showed no sign of abating. Lying huddled near the fire in her sleeping bag, Kagome shivered, despite the heat.
“Thought you weren’t afraid of the storm?” A voice teased from near her feet.
“I’m n-n-not,” Kagome’s teeth were chattering. “Normally, I love the rain. I’m just still not used to being outside where lightning could strike.”
Inuyasha moved to lie down beside her. Wrapping an arm around her waist, he drew her closer, planting a kiss on top of her head, “Don’t worry,” he grumbled in a rough voice, “You’re safe with me.”
Kagome smiled and yawned, “I know.”
Later in the night, the storm ended. The sound of water dripping from the branches woke Kagome, who realized that Inuyasha was still wrapped around her. Carefully moving away so he’d be more comfortable, she tried not to wake him as she scooted over to her right.
Inuyasha’s arm snaked out, grabbing her and pulling her back, “Mine.”
Kagome smiled happily, thinking he had to be asleep. “Really, Inuyasha?” She asked quietly in the darkness.
A low chuckle answered her as Inuyasha nuzzled his face against the soft pillow of her hair, “Go to sleep, bitch.”
And she did.
******************
Shippou carefully sniffed the air, “I think Kohaku might have been here! Yeah, I’m sure of it!” He exclaimed.
Miroku was careful to guard his expression from the kitsune. He knew that it was important for the young youkai to feel that he was helping, even though the monk knew precisely what Inuyasha’s real reason had been for sending Shippou with them. Miroku had to credit him. Something had definitely caused a change in the hanyou. If he wanted some time alone with Kagome, that could only be a positive sign, as far as Miroku was concerned. ‘Unfortunately,’ he thought with a sigh, ‘it just means that I have to sacrifice time alone with Sango.’
Smiling, he remembered two days ago, when he had said as much to Sango in their last moment alone together before leaving to find Kohaku. Though the taijiya had blushed nicely, her answer had been flippant.
“Like it would make a difference, Houshi. Besides, Kirara’s always there.”
Miroku had watched her leave before turning to the nekomata. “You’re on my side, aren’t you Kirara?”
The two-tail had hissed at him.
Miroku was drawn out of the memory as Kirara landed softly, allowing her passengers to dismount. Sango and the monk exchanged glances as Shippou raced ahead, nose to the ground in an exact imitation of their half-youkai friend. The kitsune’s quest led him to the door of a farm
house. Knocking softly, Sango stepped back and waited.
A small, elderly woman appeared at the door, “Yes?”
Sango bowed to her, “Excuse me, Obaa-san(1). We are searching for my younger brother, who has been separated from us....” Sango continued, describing Kohaku in detail. She was surprised when the woman said that she had seen him, and recently.
“In fact, just two nights ago. I found him near the village well and he looked hungry. I offered him dinner and a bed for the night if he would chop some firewood for me” the old woman smiled.
“Please, can you tell us what direction he left in, Obaa-san?” Miroku wondered if it were still possible to find the boy, now that they had come so close.
Sadly, the woman shook her head, “I’m afraid not, Houshi-sama. When I awoke the next morning, he had gone. He’d even chopped enough wood to last me a month!” Smiling, she reached a hand to Sango, “I’m sorry dear. I hope you find your brother. Such a well-mannered boy.”
Sango’s eyes filled with tears as she thanked the woman and turned to leave.
“Wait, just a moment... I seem to recall...” The old woman tapped the finger on the side of her head as the group waited expectantly. “Ah, yes! He told me that he had been living in the forest, and that he was seeking someone as he traveled from village to village.” The woman eyed them carefully, “I hadn’t seen this person he’d described, but it doesn’t match any of you. Now, why would that be?”
Sango and Miroku exchanged looks, before Miroku bowed, “Arigato, Obaa-chan. Our brother may be injured, and confused. It is important that we find him. If you happen to see him again, would you give him word that his sister has friends at the shrine near Edo(2), who desperately need his assistance. He should look for the Miko, Kaede.”
The woman nodded, agreeing to their request.
As they walked away, Shippou began sniffing the earth again. “This way!” Jumping up he raced in the direction of the forest. With a shrug, the monk and taijiya followed. They didn’t have anything to lose and the youkai seemed to be on a roll.
“Any ideas, Houshi-sama?” Sango reminded herself not to be hopeful, but she couldn’t help feeling relieved. As of two days ago, her brother was still alive and in this village.
Miroku seemed to know what she was thinking, “ It appears that our hopes have not been in vain. If Kohaku is indeed traveling through the forest between villages, I suggest that we plant your signals for him among the trees, and leave word at the next village over. I doubt he’s made it that far yet.” Reaching out, Miroku took Sango’s hand, giving it a tender squeeze, “If no one in the next village has seen Kohaku, we shall stay the night there. After that, we must return to meet Inuyasha and Kagome and hope that Kohaku finds us.”
Calling for Shippou to wait a moment, Sango retrieved the items she needed to prepare messages for her brother. Asking the kitsune’s help, she soon had a large pile of sticks in front of her, as well as a supply of leaves that she had rolled up and tied with a small piece of twine.
Kirara flew them halfway into the forest, stopping on a footpath among the trees.
Shippou tested the air around them, “I’m pretty sure he hasn’t been here yet.”
Sango nodded, “I’m hoping that he hasn’t gotten this far yet. I didn’t see him below as we passed over, although I didn’t expect to. Kohaku is too good at being cautious by now.” Giving her companions their assignments, Sango quickly began carrying out her plan to contact her brother.
When finally, after two hours of walking, the group reached the next village, Miroku, Sango, Shippou and Kirara soon discovered that Kohaku had not been seen anywhere. As Miroku had suggested, the quartet made arrangements to stay the night with the Village Head.
After assuring the village leader that the ‘dark presence’ he’d sensed earlier had been vanquished, Miroku accepted the man’s thanks and thanked him in return for his hospitality. Ignoring the annoyed look Sango shot him as he joined the others for dinner, Miroku ate quietly, knowing that the less he said, the sooner Sango would cease being angry with him for his deceit.
After she’d had enough food, Sango excused herself, telling Miroku that she wanted to take a walk before bed. Wrapping her arms around her torso for warmth, Sango walked slowly, staring at the ground in front of her. ‘Where are you, Kohaku?’ She was worried about her brother. It had been some time since she’d last seen him. Still dressed in her exterminator uniform, Sango reached beneath her armor to remove the locket Kagome had given her. Inside was a lock of hair, the exact same shade of brown as her own.
Sango remembered the look on Inuyasha’s face when he had given it to her.
“I’m sorry Sango, I couldn’t stop him....”(3)
Inuyasha had gone in search of Kikyou, who had revealed to him her theory that the only way for Naraku to be defeated was through the completion of the Shikon no Tama. Kohaku had overheard the conversation, and had determinedly set out in search of Naraku on his own. Before he’d disappeared through a barrier that Inuyasha could not break, the boy had given the hanyou the lock of his hair for Sango. Everyone had known what it meant. Kohaku did not expect to see them alive again.
Now there was a chance. Not only for Sango to see her brother again, but perhaps, to save his life. ‘But if Kikyou is right... how can I still hope to save Kohaku?’
Sitting down on a grassy hillside, still slick from last nights storm, Sango drew her knees to her chest. Folding her arms on top of them, she hid her face in the hollow made by her arms. She would not cry. Naraku had caused her enough tears to last a lifetime.
“May I join you?” Miroku stood back respectfully, waiting for her answer. Thinking that she was angrier with him than usual, Miroku had decided to follow her. Now he realized that their were other things weighing on her mind. At her slight nod, he sat close beside her, staring at the moon as it struggled to be seen over the line of trees in the distance. He didn’t expect her to talk. Sango wasn’t always one to share the pain hidden in her heart. Sitting beside her in silence, Miroku searched for something to give her hope and heal the torment of her soul. To his surprise, she spoke first.
“Do I have any hope of saving him?” Sango’s voice was steady, but quiet.
Miroku thought over his answer, “Kagome says that Kikyou believes Naraku can only be killed by completing the Jewel and destroying them both together. I am not sure that this is so. It is against my nature to believe that evil can walk this earth, without the Kami providing a means of banishing it.”
Sango turned to him, “She plans to use him - and Kouga, as bait. Naraku will come to take the Jewel shards... and Kohaku will die. Is there any other way to protect him from this fate?”
“ Kohaku has made it clear that his only goal is to destroy those who enslaved his soul and caused the deaths of your people. If this is his aim, and he has no fear of death, wouldn’t it be better for him to join us? Then, were he to fall, at least his soul will be freed from the guilt he now bears.”
“He’s just a boy, Miroku. So much has been taken from him - from all of us, already.”
Miroku nodded, “Yes, we have all sacrificed much at Naraku’s hands. It is time it ended.” The monk examined the glove that covered his right hand, fingering the rosary beads that sealed his curse. “I do not expect to survive this battle. I wonder if any of us will. But with my dying breath if need be, I will see Naraku defeated. In that, none of us will fail. If all of us are lost in the undertaking, it will be worth it to cleanse the world of this great evil.”
Sango reached out and shyly brushed his hair from his eyes. Miroku was surprised at the gesture. Meeting her gaze, he stood, taking her hands in his.
“ I love you, Houshi-sama.” Sango blushed to say what was in her heart.
Miroku smiled sadly, “As I love you, my Sango. If there is anything in this world worth living for, it is you.” Miroku kissed her gently as tears fell softly from her eyes. Their first kiss... sweet, yet passionate as he pulled her closer in to his arms. He’d longed to do this for so long - to feel her warmth against him and taste the fulness of her lips.
As a Monk, Miroku was used to giving solace to those in pain, and had been trained to know the best way to offer guidance. For once, his duty and his desire were united in purpose. Sango’s soft sigh ignited the desire in his soul, and he moaned quietly, pulling away from the intoxicating taste of her mouth.
“Sango...” he breathed forcefully. “You know better than any that I am not quite the pure monk I pretend to be. Were I to allow myself the pleasure of your touch any longer, I fear I would be unable to forgive myself later.”
Blushing, Sango nodded. Hand in hand, the two walked back to where Shippou and Kirara were already sound asleep, curled together for warmth.
Making sure to place himself on the opposite side of the room from Sango, Miroku waited for sleep to come upon him, knowing that it would be some time indeed, before he relaxed enough to succumb to it’s embrace.
*****************
The day had cooled considerably as night fell over the forest. The glow from the moon was just bright enough to clearly light his way as Kohaku once more took to the main road. The young exterminator rarely traveled on the normal footpaths. It was easier to be seen on the road, especially if Naraku’s Saimyoushou(4) were searching for him. Tonight though, the boy’s feet hurt from walking barefoot over the ground in the thickness of the forest, and he longed to gain some distance under the cover of darkness.
On the last night he had seen his sister and her companions, the Jewel shard in his back had begun to throb with an energy of its own. Kohaku had sensed the shards desire to rejoin the other pieces, to become whole once more, and for Naraku to finally fall. The boy had a duty - to himself, his sister, and the family and friends he’d slain under Naraku’s control. He’d headed off in the direction the shard guided, desperate to make amends for the terrible thing’s he’d done, though he’d been helpless to fight.
Recently, the shard had ceased to guide him towards Naraku. Unsure as to what had brought the change, Kohaku continued to travel in the same direction he had been heading before the almost magnetic pull from the Shikon no Tama had stopped. Uncertain as to his destination, Kohaku realized he had no other choice but to carry on. Soon, either he would find Naraku and Mouryoumaru, or they would come for him.
Noticing something odd to the side of the road, Kohaku moved closer to examine it. Two sticks had been placed together. One was parallel to his foot and the other, broken in the middle, was horizontal to him, creating the shape of an arrow, pointing straight ahead.
A memory teased at Kohaku’s mind. What was it? Closing his eyes, the boy thought back. Why did this signal seem so familiar to him?
That was it! A signal! An image of himself, sitting with his father and sister sprung into his mind.
“If you’re ever separated from the group, this is a simple method for leaving a message for the others to find you. It’s old, and rarely used, but any one of us would recognize it, and so should you.”
Smiling sadly of the memory of his father, Kohaku stared in wonder at the signal below him. Could it really be? Counting off five feet, he looked again and saw another arrow, still pointing straight ahead. Hurrying now, the exterminator followed a series of arrows until one set of markers appeared different than the others. Still two sticks, these ones were crossed, forming an ‘X’.
Kohaku grinned as he searched the first tree on the opposite side of the rode. The locator method was one of the cleverer ones invented by his people. So ordinary that regular travelers would never even notice it, yet so clear that anyone who knew the code could easily follow it to it’s end. Finally, he found what he was looking for. Tied to one of the lower branches was a rolled up leaf, tied with a blade of grass. Pulling it towards him, he stepped into a brighter patch of light and unrolled the message his sister had left him.
“Otouto(5) - The battle begins in Musashi. Come to the shrine near Edo and ask for the miko Kaede. You are needed here quickly. - Ane-ue(6)”
Kohaku smiled and immediately headed in the direction his sister had indicated. Once again, the siblings would fight side by side. ‘Only now,’ Kohaku thought as he began running, ‘things will be different.’
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Chapter Glossary:
1. Obaa-san - Familiar way of saying “grandmother”, or “old woman”.
2. Edo - The ancient name for Tokyo. Kaede’s village was probably several hours away by foot from the city of Edo. In Kagome’s time, the area that was once Kaede’s village has been added to Tokyo’s urban sprawl.
3. “I’m sorry Sango, I couldn’t stop him....” - Direct quote from the manga. Vol. 38, Ch. 378.
4. Saimyoushou - Naraku’s poisonous insects. Literally, ‘Hell’s Insects’.
5. Otouto - Japanese for ‘younger brother.’
6. Ane-ue - Literally means, ‘big sister, above me’. It’s an archaic term for older sister and Kohaku uses it in reference to Sango.
A/N: Almost all of the characters in this story are brought to you by the genius of Rumiko Takahashi and the letters M, I and R. I do not own the characters, they own me.