InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Love me to the End? ❯ Aim and fire ( Chapter 4 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: InuYasha Obsession Grizzly 
Thought from Sango: Where's all that light coming from?
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.28.2005 | Pages: 1 | Words: 7.8K | Visits: 236 | Status: Completed
Thought from Sango: Where's all that light coming from?
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 07.28.2005 | Pages: 1 | Words: 7.8K | Visits: 236 | Status: Completed
Chapter 4 is finally here. Hope you like this chapter, I feel iffy on this one like ch 3. Having to be so detailed and putting pieces together can be a pain! But it’s worth the trouble when ppl like the work. Enjoy! Oh and just to let you know, I’ve mixed in some scenes from the first and second InuYasha movies…but no spoilers for those who haven’t watched them.
CHAPTER 4 :)
"Kimi? Kimi where are you?" Where is that bird? Where’s InuYasha and Miroku? They should have been back by know. Kagome glanced up at the trees above hoping to spot a bird flying by. Something’s not right... She continued on with her search, having nothing better to do with her time. Sango had decided to rest until the others got back but Kagome felt jittery and left to find Kimi.
Not a very wise thing to do Kagome with all these Demons lurking around. That’s what InuYasha would say. He treats me like a kid. She kicked a stone as she walked along the path. Why do I have this bad feeling in my gut? Maybe I should go back... Movement caught her attention, or rather a shadow. What was that? I bet another Demon. Ok, I vote for going back... Kagome swung around ready to flee. Ahh! I’m surrounded! Soul Stealers? Why are they here? Kikyo? Oh no...
“So, InuYasha and his friends are here?” Came an unpleasant voice, which made Kagome jump. “K-Kikyo...” Not her! Anyone but her! Hell, I’d take a Demon any day but not Kikyo! “What are you doing here all alone? You should be with InuYasha. Is he not your protector?” The deceased Priestess gave Kagome a cold hard stare. “I, uh, was on my way back...he’s been out...hunting, I think...” Kagome eyed Kikyo suspiciously wondering if she had been the one delaying his return. The ache in her heart cracked open its shell, poisoning her inside and out. Now that I think about it, it makes me wonder if he really did go hunting... maybe Miroku is hiding something from me... If Kikyo is wandering about, InuYasha is sure to follow.
How could she ever forget that painful memory of Kikyo kissing InuYasha right in front of her. Kikyo who had bound her to a tree and forced her to watch everything. Kikyo who had almost dragged InuYasha down to hell where he didn’t belong... He belongs to me damn it! I want him to live, I want him to love me...
Kikyo laughed, sending shivers down Kagome’s spine. “You think I had something to do with InuYasha’s absence? Let me remind you, his life belongs to me. I will be the one to take it.” Kagome began to bristle at that comment. “InuYasha will live! You won’t touch him! Not while I’m around!” The venom in her own voice surprised her.
Kikyo didn’t flinch. She rather ignored Kagome’s threat, if it was even a threat, and clutched at her bow. “How good is your aim?” She asked simply. “What?” Kagome put down her defenses for a second, lost at the question. “How good is your aim?” Kikyo repeated a bit harsher. “My aim? I...I’m not sure. I don’t even have a bow, it broke.” She answered cautiously.
One of Kikyo’s Soul Stealers’ glided through the trees, something long entangled in its coiled snakish body. It hissed past Kagome, dropping its treasure at her feet. “Let’s see how well you stand Priestess.” Kikyo stated, pulling an arrow out from behind her. What? She’s going to kill me! That’s right. She’s dead and has no sympathy for the living. She loathes the living! It looks like I’m on my own. Oh wait, there’s Kimi!
‘Kagome grab the bow! Stop playing around! She’s gonna kill you! Grab it! Look down!’ Kimi screeched at Kagome. Kagome grabbed the bow and an arrow that the Soul Stealer had dropped at her feet. Kikyo had her arrow set and shot it. Kagome had hers set and flying a split second later and to her luck, the two arrows collided together, bursting into a blinding white light.
‘Too close Kagome! Stay focused! Aim for Kikyo and shoot when she does to ward off her arrows! Other wise, you lose and pay a high price!’ Kimi’s body was frozen in place, yet her mind screamed at Kagome. ‘Focus! Stay focused’ I would if you’d be quite stupid bird!
“Hmm. Not bad. But not satisfying. If you wish to protect InuYasha, you’ll have to do better than that.” Kikyo had a second arrow ready, Kagome only a step behind. They aimed at each other, Kikyo releasing hers, Kagome warding it off with her own. Another blinding light flashed through the forest as the weapons collided in mid-air. There are only eight arrows left... and she’s fast, how am I going to keep this up?
Another set of arrows flew and again the blinding light flashed. Kagome reached for her fourth, barely having enough time to set and aim as Kikyo shot and reached for another. I won’t be able to keep this up for much longer!
Shift...
“Five down, one to go.” InuYasha sheathed Tetsusaiga as the sixth charged at him. It was a weak one so a good clawing would finish it off. He cracked his knuckles ready to strike. “Come on you sorry excuse for a Demon, you’re wasting my time...Hey! What the...Miroku, that was mine damn it all!” Miroku covered up his wind tunnel with his prayer beads. “Hmm. Enough playtime. We need to get back and make sure everything is alright with the girls...Something doesn’t feel right in these woods...”
InuYasha only growled and collected his prize; breakfast. “You spoil all the fun.” But he’s right. We need to get back. The two companions trailed their way back to the shack hoping that everyone was still asleep, even though the sun was already shining brightly between white clouds. “Everything seems peaceful...” Miroku said as the campsite came into view. They entered the shelter to find Sango curled under a blanket with Shippo and Kirara balled up next to her.
“Where’s Kagome?” InuYasha asked irritated. “Don’t tell me she ran off alone again?” “She wasn’t alone, Kimi should be with her.” Sango yawned from under her blanket. “So what took you guys so long to get back? Trouble?” “Yeah. We had a bit of a work out you could say.” Miroku shrugged his shoulders and seated himself by the door. “InuYasha, better round up Kagome while we get this thing cleaned. I bet she went looking for you anyway.” The Monk busied himself with skinning the boar, ignoring the scowl InuYasha was probably making.
“Keep it up and I’ll skin you alive.” InuYasha threatened as he retreated out to look for Kagome. Where is that damn girl now? There are too many Demons around and no bird can protect her. That’s my job... InuYasha sniffed the air for traces of Kagome’s scent. Luckily he found it and began trailing after her. As he continued deeper into the thin forest, his senses picked up an uneasy feeling. Miroku’s right. There’s something wrong here. I need to find Kagome quick. An echoing thunder suddenly shattered the silent forest. What was that? Kagome where are you!
Shift...
Kagome was down to her last arrow. She couldn’t aim anymore. Kikyo wasn’t letting up and there just wasn’t enough time to think. All she could do was grab and fire. It never occurred to her that more arrows instantly appeared to replace what had been used. The only thought in her mind was to stay alive. Kikyo wanted to kill her. There was no way out of it. She warded of the ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth... Flash after flash the arrows collided, filling the forest with light and thunderous sounds.
My arms are getting sore... I wonder how many arrows I’ve shot, I lost count. How much longer will she keep this up? I don’t think I can keep going. I need help... Kikyo’s firing speed was slowly increasing or Kagome was slowing down. Either way, Kagome was losing. Kikyo’s arrows began creeping closer to her, inch by inch, the blinding light making its way closer to Kagome.
She reached down to grab another arrow, but grabbed air instead. “What! I’m out of arrows!” She froze as Kikyo aimed an arrow at her. “The only way to get to InuYasha is to kill you first. That is easy enough.” Kikyo said coldly. She pulled back the string and shot. The purified arrow flew towards the terrified girl who was too shocked to try to dodge it. Kimi screeched, launching off her perch, her talons glowing a metallic purple. She swooped down and pounced on the arrow, her own powers joining with Kikyo’s purification powers. The bird’s body suddenly absorbed into the arrow and the familiar blinding light flashed. The arrow spun around in mid-flight, changing direction, it was aimed at Kikyo.
“What the hell! That bird is dead! Oh...You wench!” Kikyo screamed in horror as her own arrow struck her where her heart was supposed to be. Small glowing orbs of light instantly became freed from the power contained in the arrow. The souls scattered in every direction, weakening the wounded Priestess. “You...wench...” was all Kikyo could say as she crumbled to the ground bleeding. A purple glow illuminated from the arrow wound and Kimi’s spiritual form slipped out from inside it. The bird’s brilliantly glowing body floated to the ground and feathers again replaced the mess.
“...Kimi...?” Kagome whispered, her face pale. Kimi stumbled across the grass to Kagome unable to stay balanced on her own two feet. The bird collapsed, panting heavily. ‘You are...much more...powerful than that...of even...Kikyo...’ Came a weak soft voice inside of Kagome’s head. Kagome knelt down and scooped up her bird, glancing at Kikyo. Kikyo had pulled the arrow free and glared at Kagome. “You...! How is it that you have it, Alana’s Power! That should have been mine! I spent two years searching for them, the Valker, only to be rejected! How could my reincarnation possess what should belong to me!”
Kagome stared blankly at Kikyo. “What are you saying? Alana’s Power? The Valker? I don’t understand...” Kikyo’s body shuddered. “You think I would tell you wench?” She laughed coldly. She looked down at her pooling blood and smiled. “Tell InuYasha I’ll be waiting for him.” The Priestess bit back a gasp of pain, balling her hands into fists. She fell to the ground and lay still.
A small blue orb escaped from the disintegrating body made of earth and bone. It floated through the air, making its way to Kagome who freaked out. She tried to run but her legs locked in place. The blue orb collided into her causing her body to suddenly burst with a new-found strength. My soul...It’s...whole again. She blinked away the dizziness that surrounded her for a second.
Kimi squirmed in Kagome’s arms, movement attracting her attention. ‘Someone is here...’ Kagome glanced behind her feeling sick to her stomach. “Huh? ...No! ...InuYasha...I-I can explain...!”
Shift...
InuYasha sped towards the thunderous noise. As he got closer, a flash of light danced up ahead of him. The breeze picked up, informing him that Kagome was indeed involved with what ever lay ahead. But another scent stopped him in his tracks. Kikyo! “What the hell?” InuYasha leapt up into the trees to test the air, maybe it had been a mistake. But it wasn’t a mistake... Kikyo’s scent was strong and it mingled with Kagome’s.
Jumping to the next branch, he followed his nose, even though the sounds and light could have led him to the same spot. At last he could see them and he landed on the ground, shocked at what he saw. Kagome held a bow in one hand, Kikyo standing on the opposite side. An arrow was flying at Kikyo, striking her in the heart; Kikyo was crumpling to the ground. No! Not again! Now the two enemies were speaking to each other, but InuYasha couldn’t here the words, his pounding heart making him deaf to the world. He shook his head to clear it and dared to look up again. Kikyo fell to the ground in her pooling blood, her body returning to what it really was, earth and bone. The part of Kagome’s soul, the only thing that had revived Kikyo, returned to Kagome who had not noticed his arrival. InuYasha opened his mouth to speak, but his words choked him. Kagome turned around and saw him, becoming paler than she already was.
“Huh? ...No! ...InuYasha... I-I can explain!” She gasped. No I can’t explain, I don’t know what happened either... She took a step toward him, freezing when InuYasha backed away. He was backing away from her, turning in the other direction, leaving her. “InuYasha wait! Don’t go!” Kagome cried trying to run after him. She clutched Kimi close, running blindly through the woods. Her tears began to blur her vision and she was forced to stop. InuYasha was nowhere in sight. “InuYasha...” She dropped to the ground and hugged Kimi, crying softly even though she fought to keep the tears inside. Kimi had recovered her strength enough to stand again, but she allowed Kagome to cradle her for comfort. InuYasha... don’t leave me...
Shift...
“I’m going to look for Kagome, I’m worried. InuYasha should have found her by now.” Sango announced, calling for Kirara. “We’ll all go.” Miroku suggested. Shippo hopped up onto Miroku’s shoulder and pointed. “Look, I see Kagome! She’s over there.” Everyone followed his finger to Kagome who was walking slowly towards them. “What’s wrong with her? Has she been crying?” Sango ran to meet her friend. A bird was perched on the Miko’s shoulder and the healthy gleam of her feathers looked dull.
“Kagome what’s wrong?” Kagome shook her head and stared down at the ground. “Tell, me Sango, have you seen InuYasha at all?” She asked with a tiny flicker of hope. “No, he left to find you. We were worried about you being gone so long.” “He found me alright...” Kagome turned around and gazed at the afternoon sky. She should have been hungry by now, but after the run-in with Kikyo, she was too numb to feel anything. “You guys should get going, look for the Jewel Shards and keep searching for Naraku.”
Sango glanced back at Miroku. “We’ve been waiting on you and InuYasha...” The Slayer knew something had happened between InuYasha and Kagome. She hated to see her friend depressed. Kagome sighed and started walking away. “I’m going back to Kaede’s for a little bit...before the reunion. I don’t want to slow you guys down so go on without me.” Sango caught up to her and stopped Kagome, giving her a stern look. “We are a team, we stay together.” Kagome was both shocked and ashamed.
“A team? Yeah, I guess you’re right.” She had to smile at that, even though it faded quickly. Miroku joined them with Shippo and Kirara tagging behind him. “We all work together, we’re like family. We have to stick together. If you have to go, we’ll wait till you come back.” Shippo stated with a smile, hoping to cheer Kagome up. “When I get sick you wait till I get better before moving on so why shouldn’t we do the same?”
Kagome smiled at Shippo and hugged him, feeling a bit better. “You guys are the best.” “Come on, let’s get back to the village.” Sango said cheerfully. Miroku scratched at his head. “Aren’t we forgetting InuYasha?” Kagome winced and started walking in the direction of the village. Sango glared at the Monk and would have liked to slap some sense into him. She mouthed “Shut up Monk!” and he quickly got the message.
He went back and collected their things with out another word. “Ready?” Sango took some of his load and they all set out for the trip back to Kaede’s village.
Shift...
InuYasha watched as his companions left without him. He could see Kagome hesitate and look back, probably hoping to see him stalk out of the woods to catch up. He ripped his eyes off of her. He felt numb and mixed up inside. The memories of Naraku’s trick wouldn’t stop playing in his head. He blamed himself for Kikyo’s downfall. I did it. I made Kikyo weak and because of that she died. A worthless Half-Demon...I was wrong to have ever thought there would be something here for me. Kagome...what am I supposed to do?
InuYasha hated feeling helpless. He shifted uneasily on his branch as his mind flopped around like a fish out of water. I never loved Kikyo. But I feel responsible for her life. I was supposed to protect her...but I have to protect Kagome too. I have to find out what happened, how Kagome got caught up in all this... I don’t believe she would do anything to purposely hurt anyone, even Kikyo. She must have been cornered into fighting, that’s the only guess I could make...
InuYasha gazed back in the direction his friends were headed. He saw only the rolling grass and blue sky above. They were too far away to spot anymore. He sighed and strangely felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted off his back. There was a sudden peaceful calming that filled him inside and he puzzled at it. Maybe I’m finally able to let go of her, Kikyo. She’s at rest now, I can move on and...start over... NO! I have to avenge her ! I must destroy Naraku, and get the Shikon Jewel he stole. It’s mine anyway. Then I won’t be a weakling anymore, I can claim all that belongs to me! I will be a powerful Demon! Not a...a Mutt!
He argued with himself not really knowing what he wanted anymore. Somehow or another, Kagome’s face continued to slip in uninvited. He thought he wanted to become a Full Demon, but one thing he desired more was Kagome, though he denied it to even himself. No one would accept a Half-Demon, they were...different. Someone to blame when things were stolen or destroyed, someone to beat on when you were angry for no reason. That’s how it always was growing up, why would it be different now? Because now I have friends who have pains like me, Kagome’s not like everyone else, she always helps people in need, no matter who or what it is... Sango has no family or home to go back to, Miroku lives with a cursed hole in his hand, and Shippo...he lost everything too, but he stays strong and keeps going. I have to keep going until Naraku is destroyed. After that...
A gentle breeze brushed against InuYasha’s face. He switched over to something less depressing. Kagome slipped under the wire and right back into his mind. Kagome you’re starting to haunt me... Hmm, I feel like I’m forgetting something...Oh wait, the reunion, Kagome’s birthday, its almost here, and I still have nothing! I need to find Totosai and get to work on the bow, I don’t know how long it will take so I’d better hurry.
He stood up, balancing on the branch he had sat on and stretched to release his tensed muscles. He felt better, as if he had talked to Kagome about his problems. In a way she had helped him, she was always there in his mind...and heart. I love her. I wish I could tell her how I feel. He jumped down and landed hard on his feet. He tried to recall which direction the old black smith lived. North I believe. Clearing his mind, InuYasha ran off to find what he needed for Kagome’s gift.
Shift...
“Hey, Kagome’s looking at something!” Shippo whispered to Sango excitedly. For the past few days, everyone, including Kaede, had been spying on Kagome, taking notice to what she seemed interested in as she browsed through the market. They knew about the reunion and her birthday and wanted to get something special for her. Lately, Kagome had been down and too quiet. It wasn’t like her at all and they all knew the reason.
She had been spotted several times just staring out across the fields for a possible glimpse of InuYasha. Sango had to drag her back at times, other wise Kagome would stay out all night waiting for the Half-Demon. She refused to say what had happened, either changing the subject or pretending not to hear what had been asked. They all got the message and left her alone.
“I think she’s looking at the cream silk cloth that just came in this morning.” Kaede appeared from a group of villagers and joined Sango and Shippo. “Kaede, why not make her a gown?” Sango suggested, as the thought came to her. “I was thinking about it. There is a young girl about Kagome’s size, I could use her as a dummy.” Shippo giggled at Kaede’s remark still watching Kagome finger the soft, light material. The Miko sighed and walked on to another table.
“Well, I’d better get to work. Not much time left. She’ll be leaving in a couple days.” Kaede made her way to the rotting stand where the new silk cloth was folded neatly in a large bundle. She bought the whole bundle, surprising both Sango and Shippo. “That had to cost a fortune! Silk like that isn’t cheap!” Sango gasped and smiled to herself. “Kagome will defiantly get a surprise.” Shippo agreed, his smile matching Sango’s.
Shift...
Kagome sat huddled by the Sacred Tree. Kimi was dosing on a low branch, her head tucked under a wing. The two of them had spent the day walking and the hot sun had finally driven them into the shaded forest. “Kimi? What did she mean? About...Alana’s Power and the Valker?” Kagome asked out of the blue.
Kimi perked up, knowing that the question would come up sooner or later. ‘What Kikyo had said? Oh. That’s difficult to explain. Let’s just say that you could have the potential to become many great things one day. Your power for one thing is very rare. I’m made up of your Purification powers absorbed from the arrow you shot. When Kikyo shot her arrow to kill you, I used your power to reflect it back at her. The only reason that trick worked...you’d have to be more powerful, by-pass her in strength and spiritual power.’
Kimi fluffed up and cocked her head. ‘And you did. You are more powerful than Kikyo. She was jealous of you. You kept her from taking down InuYasha. Once you were out of the way, she could have easily dragged InuYasha to hell with her.’ Kagome sighed at the sound of InuYasha’s name. “He hates me, thinks I destroyed Kikyo. He still loves her...” Kimi shook her head. ‘I don’t believe that’s true. I see it in a different point of view.’
“He ran away from me! When I stepped toward him he backed off like he wanted to be as far away from me as possible. His expression...It was as if someone had beat him to the ground...it’s tormenting me inside. I can’t believe I hurt him like that. I never wanted to hurt anyone. But what was I supposed to do? Let her kill me? Would that have made him happy?”
Kimi hissed at Kagome sending a strong, stern message into her head. ‘Stop whining over him! Grow up Kagome! Don’t you have a reunion to enjoy? It’s your birthday in a couple days. InuYasha will come around eventually so leave it be and live your life!’ Kagome was shocked. But she knew the bird was right. She would be with friends and family, it was a time to party and forget about the worries and problems that plagued the mind.
“I guess you’re right...but I wanted him to come.” ‘Who knows, maybe he will. Now then, I think it’s about time you get ready to go back. Didn’t your mom want you back early?’ “Yeah.” Kagome got up and held out her arm for Kimi to perch on. The bird sailed to the offered arm and landed neatly, fluffing back up. ‘Let’s go.’
Shift...
InuYasha could make out an old bull munching some oats in a bucket. The thick air smelled of ash, metal, and molten rock. This is defiantly the place. He arrived at the entrance of the black smith’s home and barged in as if he owned the place. “Hey old man! You’d better be here!” “What? Who’s there? InuYasha is that you?” Came a hoarse voice followed by the clang of metal.
“I need you to forge me a strip of metal in the angle of a bow. I need strong, light metal, something that can be held with one hand.” Totosai scratched his head in confusion. “In the angle of a bow?” “Yeah, and I want my fang combined with it. Is there a problem with that? I’ll pay you when it’s done. I need it by morning. Can you do it?” InuYasha asked impatiently. He knew the old man could be stubborn and he didn’t feel like fighting with him.
“By morning? If you need it that badly, I guess I could do it. Why?” “None of your business. Just have it ready.” InuYasha growled. “If you want your fang in it then open up. I don’t see what you’re up to, but my guess is that you want to protect someone or something.” “Just shut up and get it over with.” “Then hold still!” Totosai reached out and plucked InuYasha’s fang with one yank of the pliers. InuYasha bite back a yelp and restrained his fist from pounding the old man out of habit. He ran his tongue over the hole in his mouth and growled. “It’ll grow back in a day or so.” The old man reminded him. “What ever.” InuYasha called, already on his way out. Totosai puzzled over InuYasha’s sudden visit and retreat. “Must be in a hurry...hmm.”
Shift...
Kagome slapped at her alarm clock, blindly pushing buttons until she was forced to get up and turn it off. She pushed off the covers and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Today, they would be leaving for the reunion. It was a two hour drive into the next city, so they would have to leave a bit early. With a yawn, Kagome stumbled to the bathroom to grab a quick shower.
She hurriedly dressed and ran down to eat breakfast afterwards. Sota had beaten her as always, not that she cared. “Hey sis, you all packed?” He asked cheerfully. Kagome just nodded, still not quite awake yet. “Here, this is your room number, you’re staying with two other cousins, I forgot who though. You got lucky. You have the top floor in the hotel. I have the second floor. Room 31 I think.” Sota stuffed his mouth with a spoonful of cereal.
“When are we leaving?” Kagome asked, grabbing some toast on the table. “As soon as we’ve got the car loaded.” Kagome’s mother said, entering the kitchen with bags in each hand. “Need some help?” Kagome left breakfast and ran to the door to open it. “Thanks dear, bring down your stuff and take it to the car. Sota when you get finished you do the same. Where’s Gramps at?” “I think he’s in the shrine cleaning up.” Sota said as he got up to put his bowl in the sink. “He said something about sealing out spirits or something... You know him, always with the superstition...”
Kagome rolled her eyes at that fact. She went upstairs and gathered her luggage for the four day ‘Holiday’. Her mom had advised her to pack an extra empty bag and the thought of that made her smile. She couldn’t wait to get to the reunion. Tomorrow was her birthday and she was determined to enjoy herself.
Skipping down out to the car, Kagome shoved her suitcases into the trunk along with all the other bags. Man, for a reunion we sure are taking a lot... I feel like we’re going camping. She left to find her mother. “Kagome, is everything ready?” “Yeah I think so, I’ll go back and make sure I’m not leaving anything.” Taking the stairs two at a time, she jogged back to her room. I think that was everythi...wait. I almost forgot. A small package was sitting on her desk. I need to drop this off at least... She walked over and picked it up, the hurt that had been locked up temporarily, slowly easing out.
Kagome sat down on her bed, her eyes clouding over as she recalled that happy day just walking through the city. She had been shopping for Sango’s birthday, when a glint caught her attention in a window. “Oh!” Curiosity had taken control and dragged her inside the small shop to examine the shiny object more closely.
Kagome smiled and laughed at the memory. She hadn’t intended to get anything from that particular shop, but as luck would have it, she had come out with what her eyes had spied. Now I wonder if he’ll accept it. He threw the locket back at me when I gave it to him. And then I found him wearing it when he came to save me inside the dream castle. I even kissed him to save his sorry butt from becoming a Full Demon and he had the nerve to basically say it meant nothing. But he kissed me under the tree, he bit me! And...Oh InuYasha I’m so confused. Why did you leave me? Why did you run, I didn’t do it! Why do you still love Kikyo? Am I only a stuffed animal to squeeze for false comfort? Come back to me...
A knock on the door made Kagome jump and she quickly wiped the fresh tears from her eyes. She blinked back her emotions and faced her mother who stood in the doorway. “Kagome? What’s wrong?” “Nothing mom. I just need to go back to the Feudal Era for ten minutes. Forgot to do something.” Her mother nodded understandingly. “Alright. Just be back in thirty minutes. Are you sure you’re ok?” “Yeah, I, uh...don’t feel too good that’s all.” She came up with a quick lie, feeling even worse for lying to her mother. But she didn’t want questions or anyone’s sympathy.
“I’ll only be a few minutes.” Kagome clutched the small package tightly in her palm and fled past her mother who shook her head and gave a sad smile. Kagome ran to the shrine and leapt into the Well. Back in the Feudal Era, she jogged back to Kaede’s village, hoping by some miracle that InuYasha would be there. She was panting by the time she reached Kaede’s hut. “Kagome?” Sango looked up, surprised to see her breathless friend. The Demon Slayer threw a cloth over what she was working on and led Kagome out for obvious reasons.
“What are you doing here? I thought you were leaving today?” Kagome tried to catch her breath and held up the package she held in her palm. “Is InuYasha here?” Her voice held the note of hope, but it was crushed like she expected it to be as Sango shook her head. “No, we haven’t seen him. Why?” “Oh...well, ...if you see him, could you give this to him?” Kagome’s voice suddenly became low, filled with disappointment. She handed Sango the package and tried to smile, though it was hard to do it.
“Yeah, I’ll give it to him.” Oh I’ll give it to him alright! “Thanks. I have to get back, we’re all set. Everyone’s waiting on me.” “Here, take Kirara with you, she can give you a ride back. Kirara?” Sango called for her companion who popped up out of nowhere. Kirara transformed into her larger-self and let Kagome onto her back. “Kagome. Please try not to worry so much. Have a good time. Relax and enjoy your birthday. It only comes once a year you know.” Kagome finally gave a true smile. “Thanks Sango, for everything.” Kirara leapt into the air with a delighted growl and plunged into the dense forest. The two-tail dodged tree branches and arrived at the Well in only a couple minutes. Kagome waved Kirara off and jumped in to the other world, the Present.
Shift...
Kimi locked her wings as she caught a thermal and steadily rose higher into the sky. When Kagome had gone back to her own world, Kimi had set out to find InuYasha. She was determined to open up the Half-Demon’s eyes to what was around him. It was obvious that he loved Kagome, but he wasn’t exactly doing what was supposed to done. Kagome would never save the Valker and tap into her hidden powers if she kept thinking about him like she had been from day one. The Miko needed a clear, fresh mind, needed to be able to concentrate on what would lay ahead. Soon, very soon, the time would come. Kimi could feel it. The sleeping Valker were stirring. They would be roused from the eternal slumber and would pull at their chains in fury, waiting to be freed, waiting to be tamed. The Priestess needed to be able to control them, she had to be strong. InuYasha was only tearing her apart. That had to change.
Kimi gazed down at the land below her. The wind licked her feathers and guided her on her quest. She could make out a village with ant-sized people scattered about the fields. It felt good to fly again. Being bitten by a Demon was not a pleasant experience. Dieing from its poison was even worse. Lucky thing Kagome was there at the right time. Other wise it would be another hundred years before a chance like this ever came to pass, and by then it might be too late. The cycle had to end. It had to end now, with Kagome. She could stop it, change things.
Now if only I could find InuYasha! Kimi dove down, folding her wings to escape the thermal that had offered a free ride. It would be easier to search closer to the ground. He was close by, hiding somewhere in this area, his scent mingled in the trees. She kept her eyes open for the red kimono he wore.
Shift...
InuYasha sat down deep in thought. He held a long, slender bow in his hand, newly made. Hidden inside the shining cherry-brown wood was a thin strip of metal with his fang molded into it. How Totosai had managed to combine the wood and metal as one was puzzling, but he didn’t complain.
The slick wood glinted from the sun light that filtered through the trees. Now I have to put a design on it but what? What do I use? How do I do it? This is all new to me. The Shikon Jewel came to mind. I could put the Jewel right here...and...Kimi! I could put her at the top, I could make an out-line of a bird. That idea popped into his head when he spotted the bird landing on a near-by branch. Wait a minute, Kimi? Where did she come from?
He shrugged and decided to use the bird to his advantage. It would be easier to carve the figure at the top with something to actually look at. But what to use...his claws! He could claw in what he wanted... His doubt quickly overcame him. I’ve never done anything like this, I’ll mess up and Kagome will laugh at it. He was ready to quite when Kimi suddenly landed on his shoulder. He tried to shoo the bird off but she clung tightly to his shirt. He gave up batting at her and stared down at the bow on his lap.
Kimi settled comfortably on his shoulder and concentrated hard, trying to tap into his mind. She struggled for a time, shocked that the Half-Demon had such a blocked up memory. It was like he had stored everything in steel boxes with twenty key holes bolted shut and chains wrapped around it. He didn’t want to remember his past and refused to look to the future. So that was his problem. He was afraid. Afraid to trust, just like Kagome.
Finally, Kimi broke into the dark void, plunging deep into InuYasha’s thoughts, reading them, trying to understand what he wanted, what he was up to. The only thing she managed to unlock was his present thoughts. He was worried about the bow. He thought Kagome would laugh if he messed up. He wanted to carve something into it, the Shikon Jewel and...Me? How flattering. I think it’s time to give a boost of confidence.
Kimi tried to blind InuYasha’s doubts. She filtered them out and replaced them with new thoughts, giving him the sudden feeling that he knew what to do and how to do it. She watched quietly as InuYasha blinked and looked down at the bow. He smiled to himself and bent over to get started. He used his claws to ‘sketch’ the out-line of the Shikon Jewel by scratching the wood. Before he knew it, it was finished.
He shook his head in disbelief at what he had just done, not knowing that it was Kimi who had helped him. Her power was wearing off, but she didn’t need to boost his confidence again. Now he was sure of himself, the doubt gone for the moment, so Kimi hopped from his shoulder and stood a few feet away to pose for him. InuYasha stared at the bird for a few minutes, trying to glue the form in his head. He couldn’t make a detailed carving, feathers were too complicated, not to mention too tiny.
By the time InuYasha was satisfied, the sun was setting. He wondered how long it had taken, but it didn’t matter. The bow was done. Kimi puffed her feathers out and gave a squeak of delight. ‘It’s pretty. I like. Kagome will like.’ InuYasha sighed. “You think so? ...Wait...who said that?” InuYasha jumped up and looked around, spotting no one. The only creature with him was Kimi. He eyed the bird and shook his head. Must have been my imagination...Well anyway, I need to get this to Kagome. I’m late. She left a couple days ago I bet. He stretched to wake his sleeping muscles, glancing at Kimi once more.
“Hey bird. Why are you following me? Shoo. Stupid bird.” Kimi only hissed and flew up to a high branch. She fluffed her feathers as if laughing at him, her tail ruffling in a playful manner. ‘Make me.’ She waited for him to say something. “No time to mess with you stupid bird, so stop following me.” InuYasha growled, trying to ignore the puzzling voice that tickled his mind. Could it be the bird? Was this what Kagome was talking about? ‘Why don’t you like me? Why are you always mad?’
InuYasha continued to eye Kimi, not believing what he was hearing. The bird was talking to him! It had to be the bird...or maybe the sun was getting to him. ‘The sun has done nothing. Kimi speaks, you finally listen. Not deaf anymore. Is that for Kagome? Pretty.’ Kimi hopped down to a lower branch. ‘Do you like Kagome? She cries for you. She thinks you ran away from her. You hurt her, you always hurt her. Why?’ InuYasha tried to speak, but nothing came out. He couldn’t come up with anything to say. She’s crying? I need to get back...
He turned to walk away, forgetting about Kimi. Kimi guessed her words had spilled some sense into InuYasha’s head. She sighed and slid from her perch, circling over InuYasha’s head. She had done what she had come to do. It had been easier than she had expected. He already had his mind set, but he had needed a little push and Kimi supplied it. The rest was up to him. Too bad I can’t follow them to Kagome’s world... But I suppose it’s for the best.
Shift...
InuYasha ran at a speedy pace. Kaede’s village was getting close and as he had expected, Kagome’s scent wasn’t in the air. She was probably at home. He charged ahead with Kimi over head. She seemed to be enjoying herself, making loopy circled in the sky.
‘There’s a Demon coming, a big one!’ Kimi screeched suddenly. She flew ahead, breaking from her lazy circles, warning the stunned InuYasha of the possible danger. The Half-Demon had forgotten about Kimi speaking to him and he nearly tripped as he came to a halt. He sniffed the air, catching the scent of what Kimi saw. “Damn. I don’t have time to mess with stupid Demons!”
InuYasha felt the ground tremble as a massive Bear Demon approached him. “Get out of the way,” InuYasha growled in an irritated voice. “Or I’ll slice you in half!” The Demon ignored the threat and gave one of his own. “You smell of a Half-Demon. Dare to challenge me! I’ll crush you.”
InuYasha only rolled his eyes, drawing Tetsusaiga from its sheath. “Feh. Fat chance. Get out of my way, you’re wasting my time!” He leapt at the Bear, aiming to use the Wind Scar. The Demon’s speed was faster than he had judged, and a large paw swung at him, slamming him into a tree. “Damn you!” InuYasha cursed, dragging himself up. He dodged the next blow as the Bear lunged at him, trees snapping like small branches as it missed its target.
InuYasha was worried that the bow would get damaged as he leapt from tree branch to tree branch, the Demon crashing behind him. He jumped high over the trees and swung around to face his foe. The Bear lost sight of him, not expecting InuYasha to jump into the sky. Now’s my chance. InuYasha cut into the air with his sword, aiming at the Demon below. “Wind Scar!”
The Bear took the blow head on, the Wind Scar cutting into its flesh and bone. It collapsed to the ground, its body instantly disintegrating into the air. “Damn . The sun is setting and I’m late as it is. Kagome probably hates me. She’s going to Sit me I know it.” InuYasha drifted from the sky and landed next to the Bear Demon’s “grave”. He tugged the bow around in front of him from his back and sighed with relief. I thought it would brake after being slammed against that tree. It’s a good thing I used the same wood that was used for my sheath. It’s quite amazing... He slung it back over his shoulder and took off back to Kaede’s. Kimi flew over head, resuming her lazy circling glide.
________________________________________________________________ _____
End of ch 4! Keep reading! Go on to the next chapter! A large chunk of Drama on the way:) I’m glad some of you think it’s interesting. It’s hard working with this fanfic. I keep having to create this scene, change this, change that, throw out one part, add another...Frustrating! But it’s fun and worth doing! Hope you liked this chapter. Oh, and I apologize to any Kikyo fans out there for killing her in this chapter, but it had to be done because I HATE her above everything else. InuYasha and Kagome are my fav. characters and Kikyo keeps interfering so...I chose my own way of dealing with her, even though I already know how she really ‘dies’ for the second time on the real episodes. Lemon in ch 5! (Hint Hint) or maybe I should move it to ch 6… PS. This chapter has been proofed and all the ‘s’ words were filled in. For some reason, the computer cut off MOST words that included Demons, Birds, Hated, Dead, and Miko. Don’t ask, but I hope it’s all fixed now! Onward to chapter 5!
CHAPTER 4 :)
"Kimi? Kimi where are you?" Where is that bird? Where’s InuYasha and Miroku? They should have been back by know. Kagome glanced up at the trees above hoping to spot a bird flying by. Something’s not right... She continued on with her search, having nothing better to do with her time. Sango had decided to rest until the others got back but Kagome felt jittery and left to find Kimi.
Not a very wise thing to do Kagome with all these Demons lurking around. That’s what InuYasha would say. He treats me like a kid. She kicked a stone as she walked along the path. Why do I have this bad feeling in my gut? Maybe I should go back... Movement caught her attention, or rather a shadow. What was that? I bet another Demon. Ok, I vote for going back... Kagome swung around ready to flee. Ahh! I’m surrounded! Soul Stealers? Why are they here? Kikyo? Oh no...
“So, InuYasha and his friends are here?” Came an unpleasant voice, which made Kagome jump. “K-Kikyo...” Not her! Anyone but her! Hell, I’d take a Demon any day but not Kikyo! “What are you doing here all alone? You should be with InuYasha. Is he not your protector?” The deceased Priestess gave Kagome a cold hard stare. “I, uh, was on my way back...he’s been out...hunting, I think...” Kagome eyed Kikyo suspiciously wondering if she had been the one delaying his return. The ache in her heart cracked open its shell, poisoning her inside and out. Now that I think about it, it makes me wonder if he really did go hunting... maybe Miroku is hiding something from me... If Kikyo is wandering about, InuYasha is sure to follow.
How could she ever forget that painful memory of Kikyo kissing InuYasha right in front of her. Kikyo who had bound her to a tree and forced her to watch everything. Kikyo who had almost dragged InuYasha down to hell where he didn’t belong... He belongs to me damn it! I want him to live, I want him to love me...
Kikyo laughed, sending shivers down Kagome’s spine. “You think I had something to do with InuYasha’s absence? Let me remind you, his life belongs to me. I will be the one to take it.” Kagome began to bristle at that comment. “InuYasha will live! You won’t touch him! Not while I’m around!” The venom in her own voice surprised her.
Kikyo didn’t flinch. She rather ignored Kagome’s threat, if it was even a threat, and clutched at her bow. “How good is your aim?” She asked simply. “What?” Kagome put down her defenses for a second, lost at the question. “How good is your aim?” Kikyo repeated a bit harsher. “My aim? I...I’m not sure. I don’t even have a bow, it broke.” She answered cautiously.
One of Kikyo’s Soul Stealers’ glided through the trees, something long entangled in its coiled snakish body. It hissed past Kagome, dropping its treasure at her feet. “Let’s see how well you stand Priestess.” Kikyo stated, pulling an arrow out from behind her. What? She’s going to kill me! That’s right. She’s dead and has no sympathy for the living. She loathes the living! It looks like I’m on my own. Oh wait, there’s Kimi!
‘Kagome grab the bow! Stop playing around! She’s gonna kill you! Grab it! Look down!’ Kimi screeched at Kagome. Kagome grabbed the bow and an arrow that the Soul Stealer had dropped at her feet. Kikyo had her arrow set and shot it. Kagome had hers set and flying a split second later and to her luck, the two arrows collided together, bursting into a blinding white light.
‘Too close Kagome! Stay focused! Aim for Kikyo and shoot when she does to ward off her arrows! Other wise, you lose and pay a high price!’ Kimi’s body was frozen in place, yet her mind screamed at Kagome. ‘Focus! Stay focused’ I would if you’d be quite stupid bird!
“Hmm. Not bad. But not satisfying. If you wish to protect InuYasha, you’ll have to do better than that.” Kikyo had a second arrow ready, Kagome only a step behind. They aimed at each other, Kikyo releasing hers, Kagome warding it off with her own. Another blinding light flashed through the forest as the weapons collided in mid-air. There are only eight arrows left... and she’s fast, how am I going to keep this up?
Another set of arrows flew and again the blinding light flashed. Kagome reached for her fourth, barely having enough time to set and aim as Kikyo shot and reached for another. I won’t be able to keep this up for much longer!
Shift...
“Five down, one to go.” InuYasha sheathed Tetsusaiga as the sixth charged at him. It was a weak one so a good clawing would finish it off. He cracked his knuckles ready to strike. “Come on you sorry excuse for a Demon, you’re wasting my time...Hey! What the...Miroku, that was mine damn it all!” Miroku covered up his wind tunnel with his prayer beads. “Hmm. Enough playtime. We need to get back and make sure everything is alright with the girls...Something doesn’t feel right in these woods...”
InuYasha only growled and collected his prize; breakfast. “You spoil all the fun.” But he’s right. We need to get back. The two companions trailed their way back to the shack hoping that everyone was still asleep, even though the sun was already shining brightly between white clouds. “Everything seems peaceful...” Miroku said as the campsite came into view. They entered the shelter to find Sango curled under a blanket with Shippo and Kirara balled up next to her.
“Where’s Kagome?” InuYasha asked irritated. “Don’t tell me she ran off alone again?” “She wasn’t alone, Kimi should be with her.” Sango yawned from under her blanket. “So what took you guys so long to get back? Trouble?” “Yeah. We had a bit of a work out you could say.” Miroku shrugged his shoulders and seated himself by the door. “InuYasha, better round up Kagome while we get this thing cleaned. I bet she went looking for you anyway.” The Monk busied himself with skinning the boar, ignoring the scowl InuYasha was probably making.
“Keep it up and I’ll skin you alive.” InuYasha threatened as he retreated out to look for Kagome. Where is that damn girl now? There are too many Demons around and no bird can protect her. That’s my job... InuYasha sniffed the air for traces of Kagome’s scent. Luckily he found it and began trailing after her. As he continued deeper into the thin forest, his senses picked up an uneasy feeling. Miroku’s right. There’s something wrong here. I need to find Kagome quick. An echoing thunder suddenly shattered the silent forest. What was that? Kagome where are you!
Shift...
Kagome was down to her last arrow. She couldn’t aim anymore. Kikyo wasn’t letting up and there just wasn’t enough time to think. All she could do was grab and fire. It never occurred to her that more arrows instantly appeared to replace what had been used. The only thought in her mind was to stay alive. Kikyo wanted to kill her. There was no way out of it. She warded of the ninth, tenth, eleventh, twelfth... Flash after flash the arrows collided, filling the forest with light and thunderous sounds.
My arms are getting sore... I wonder how many arrows I’ve shot, I lost count. How much longer will she keep this up? I don’t think I can keep going. I need help... Kikyo’s firing speed was slowly increasing or Kagome was slowing down. Either way, Kagome was losing. Kikyo’s arrows began creeping closer to her, inch by inch, the blinding light making its way closer to Kagome.
She reached down to grab another arrow, but grabbed air instead. “What! I’m out of arrows!” She froze as Kikyo aimed an arrow at her. “The only way to get to InuYasha is to kill you first. That is easy enough.” Kikyo said coldly. She pulled back the string and shot. The purified arrow flew towards the terrified girl who was too shocked to try to dodge it. Kimi screeched, launching off her perch, her talons glowing a metallic purple. She swooped down and pounced on the arrow, her own powers joining with Kikyo’s purification powers. The bird’s body suddenly absorbed into the arrow and the familiar blinding light flashed. The arrow spun around in mid-flight, changing direction, it was aimed at Kikyo.
“What the hell! That bird is dead! Oh...You wench!” Kikyo screamed in horror as her own arrow struck her where her heart was supposed to be. Small glowing orbs of light instantly became freed from the power contained in the arrow. The souls scattered in every direction, weakening the wounded Priestess. “You...wench...” was all Kikyo could say as she crumbled to the ground bleeding. A purple glow illuminated from the arrow wound and Kimi’s spiritual form slipped out from inside it. The bird’s brilliantly glowing body floated to the ground and feathers again replaced the mess.
“...Kimi...?” Kagome whispered, her face pale. Kimi stumbled across the grass to Kagome unable to stay balanced on her own two feet. The bird collapsed, panting heavily. ‘You are...much more...powerful than that...of even...Kikyo...’ Came a weak soft voice inside of Kagome’s head. Kagome knelt down and scooped up her bird, glancing at Kikyo. Kikyo had pulled the arrow free and glared at Kagome. “You...! How is it that you have it, Alana’s Power! That should have been mine! I spent two years searching for them, the Valker, only to be rejected! How could my reincarnation possess what should belong to me!”
Kagome stared blankly at Kikyo. “What are you saying? Alana’s Power? The Valker? I don’t understand...” Kikyo’s body shuddered. “You think I would tell you wench?” She laughed coldly. She looked down at her pooling blood and smiled. “Tell InuYasha I’ll be waiting for him.” The Priestess bit back a gasp of pain, balling her hands into fists. She fell to the ground and lay still.
A small blue orb escaped from the disintegrating body made of earth and bone. It floated through the air, making its way to Kagome who freaked out. She tried to run but her legs locked in place. The blue orb collided into her causing her body to suddenly burst with a new-found strength. My soul...It’s...whole again. She blinked away the dizziness that surrounded her for a second.
Kimi squirmed in Kagome’s arms, movement attracting her attention. ‘Someone is here...’ Kagome glanced behind her feeling sick to her stomach. “Huh? ...No! ...InuYasha...I-I can explain...!”
Shift...
InuYasha sped towards the thunderous noise. As he got closer, a flash of light danced up ahead of him. The breeze picked up, informing him that Kagome was indeed involved with what ever lay ahead. But another scent stopped him in his tracks. Kikyo! “What the hell?” InuYasha leapt up into the trees to test the air, maybe it had been a mistake. But it wasn’t a mistake... Kikyo’s scent was strong and it mingled with Kagome’s.
Jumping to the next branch, he followed his nose, even though the sounds and light could have led him to the same spot. At last he could see them and he landed on the ground, shocked at what he saw. Kagome held a bow in one hand, Kikyo standing on the opposite side. An arrow was flying at Kikyo, striking her in the heart; Kikyo was crumpling to the ground. No! Not again! Now the two enemies were speaking to each other, but InuYasha couldn’t here the words, his pounding heart making him deaf to the world. He shook his head to clear it and dared to look up again. Kikyo fell to the ground in her pooling blood, her body returning to what it really was, earth and bone. The part of Kagome’s soul, the only thing that had revived Kikyo, returned to Kagome who had not noticed his arrival. InuYasha opened his mouth to speak, but his words choked him. Kagome turned around and saw him, becoming paler than she already was.
“Huh? ...No! ...InuYasha... I-I can explain!” She gasped. No I can’t explain, I don’t know what happened either... She took a step toward him, freezing when InuYasha backed away. He was backing away from her, turning in the other direction, leaving her. “InuYasha wait! Don’t go!” Kagome cried trying to run after him. She clutched Kimi close, running blindly through the woods. Her tears began to blur her vision and she was forced to stop. InuYasha was nowhere in sight. “InuYasha...” She dropped to the ground and hugged Kimi, crying softly even though she fought to keep the tears inside. Kimi had recovered her strength enough to stand again, but she allowed Kagome to cradle her for comfort. InuYasha... don’t leave me...
Shift...
“I’m going to look for Kagome, I’m worried. InuYasha should have found her by now.” Sango announced, calling for Kirara. “We’ll all go.” Miroku suggested. Shippo hopped up onto Miroku’s shoulder and pointed. “Look, I see Kagome! She’s over there.” Everyone followed his finger to Kagome who was walking slowly towards them. “What’s wrong with her? Has she been crying?” Sango ran to meet her friend. A bird was perched on the Miko’s shoulder and the healthy gleam of her feathers looked dull.
“Kagome what’s wrong?” Kagome shook her head and stared down at the ground. “Tell, me Sango, have you seen InuYasha at all?” She asked with a tiny flicker of hope. “No, he left to find you. We were worried about you being gone so long.” “He found me alright...” Kagome turned around and gazed at the afternoon sky. She should have been hungry by now, but after the run-in with Kikyo, she was too numb to feel anything. “You guys should get going, look for the Jewel Shards and keep searching for Naraku.”
Sango glanced back at Miroku. “We’ve been waiting on you and InuYasha...” The Slayer knew something had happened between InuYasha and Kagome. She hated to see her friend depressed. Kagome sighed and started walking away. “I’m going back to Kaede’s for a little bit...before the reunion. I don’t want to slow you guys down so go on without me.” Sango caught up to her and stopped Kagome, giving her a stern look. “We are a team, we stay together.” Kagome was both shocked and ashamed.
“A team? Yeah, I guess you’re right.” She had to smile at that, even though it faded quickly. Miroku joined them with Shippo and Kirara tagging behind him. “We all work together, we’re like family. We have to stick together. If you have to go, we’ll wait till you come back.” Shippo stated with a smile, hoping to cheer Kagome up. “When I get sick you wait till I get better before moving on so why shouldn’t we do the same?”
Kagome smiled at Shippo and hugged him, feeling a bit better. “You guys are the best.” “Come on, let’s get back to the village.” Sango said cheerfully. Miroku scratched at his head. “Aren’t we forgetting InuYasha?” Kagome winced and started walking in the direction of the village. Sango glared at the Monk and would have liked to slap some sense into him. She mouthed “Shut up Monk!” and he quickly got the message.
He went back and collected their things with out another word. “Ready?” Sango took some of his load and they all set out for the trip back to Kaede’s village.
Shift...
InuYasha watched as his companions left without him. He could see Kagome hesitate and look back, probably hoping to see him stalk out of the woods to catch up. He ripped his eyes off of her. He felt numb and mixed up inside. The memories of Naraku’s trick wouldn’t stop playing in his head. He blamed himself for Kikyo’s downfall. I did it. I made Kikyo weak and because of that she died. A worthless Half-Demon...I was wrong to have ever thought there would be something here for me. Kagome...what am I supposed to do?
InuYasha hated feeling helpless. He shifted uneasily on his branch as his mind flopped around like a fish out of water. I never loved Kikyo. But I feel responsible for her life. I was supposed to protect her...but I have to protect Kagome too. I have to find out what happened, how Kagome got caught up in all this... I don’t believe she would do anything to purposely hurt anyone, even Kikyo. She must have been cornered into fighting, that’s the only guess I could make...
InuYasha gazed back in the direction his friends were headed. He saw only the rolling grass and blue sky above. They were too far away to spot anymore. He sighed and strangely felt as if a heavy burden had been lifted off his back. There was a sudden peaceful calming that filled him inside and he puzzled at it. Maybe I’m finally able to let go of her, Kikyo. She’s at rest now, I can move on and...start over... NO! I have to avenge her ! I must destroy Naraku, and get the Shikon Jewel he stole. It’s mine anyway. Then I won’t be a weakling anymore, I can claim all that belongs to me! I will be a powerful Demon! Not a...a Mutt!
He argued with himself not really knowing what he wanted anymore. Somehow or another, Kagome’s face continued to slip in uninvited. He thought he wanted to become a Full Demon, but one thing he desired more was Kagome, though he denied it to even himself. No one would accept a Half-Demon, they were...different. Someone to blame when things were stolen or destroyed, someone to beat on when you were angry for no reason. That’s how it always was growing up, why would it be different now? Because now I have friends who have pains like me, Kagome’s not like everyone else, she always helps people in need, no matter who or what it is... Sango has no family or home to go back to, Miroku lives with a cursed hole in his hand, and Shippo...he lost everything too, but he stays strong and keeps going. I have to keep going until Naraku is destroyed. After that...
A gentle breeze brushed against InuYasha’s face. He switched over to something less depressing. Kagome slipped under the wire and right back into his mind. Kagome you’re starting to haunt me... Hmm, I feel like I’m forgetting something...Oh wait, the reunion, Kagome’s birthday, its almost here, and I still have nothing! I need to find Totosai and get to work on the bow, I don’t know how long it will take so I’d better hurry.
He stood up, balancing on the branch he had sat on and stretched to release his tensed muscles. He felt better, as if he had talked to Kagome about his problems. In a way she had helped him, she was always there in his mind...and heart. I love her. I wish I could tell her how I feel. He jumped down and landed hard on his feet. He tried to recall which direction the old black smith lived. North I believe. Clearing his mind, InuYasha ran off to find what he needed for Kagome’s gift.
Shift...
“Hey, Kagome’s looking at something!” Shippo whispered to Sango excitedly. For the past few days, everyone, including Kaede, had been spying on Kagome, taking notice to what she seemed interested in as she browsed through the market. They knew about the reunion and her birthday and wanted to get something special for her. Lately, Kagome had been down and too quiet. It wasn’t like her at all and they all knew the reason.
She had been spotted several times just staring out across the fields for a possible glimpse of InuYasha. Sango had to drag her back at times, other wise Kagome would stay out all night waiting for the Half-Demon. She refused to say what had happened, either changing the subject or pretending not to hear what had been asked. They all got the message and left her alone.
“I think she’s looking at the cream silk cloth that just came in this morning.” Kaede appeared from a group of villagers and joined Sango and Shippo. “Kaede, why not make her a gown?” Sango suggested, as the thought came to her. “I was thinking about it. There is a young girl about Kagome’s size, I could use her as a dummy.” Shippo giggled at Kaede’s remark still watching Kagome finger the soft, light material. The Miko sighed and walked on to another table.
“Well, I’d better get to work. Not much time left. She’ll be leaving in a couple days.” Kaede made her way to the rotting stand where the new silk cloth was folded neatly in a large bundle. She bought the whole bundle, surprising both Sango and Shippo. “That had to cost a fortune! Silk like that isn’t cheap!” Sango gasped and smiled to herself. “Kagome will defiantly get a surprise.” Shippo agreed, his smile matching Sango’s.
Shift...
Kagome sat huddled by the Sacred Tree. Kimi was dosing on a low branch, her head tucked under a wing. The two of them had spent the day walking and the hot sun had finally driven them into the shaded forest. “Kimi? What did she mean? About...Alana’s Power and the Valker?” Kagome asked out of the blue.
Kimi perked up, knowing that the question would come up sooner or later. ‘What Kikyo had said? Oh. That’s difficult to explain. Let’s just say that you could have the potential to become many great things one day. Your power for one thing is very rare. I’m made up of your Purification powers absorbed from the arrow you shot. When Kikyo shot her arrow to kill you, I used your power to reflect it back at her. The only reason that trick worked...you’d have to be more powerful, by-pass her in strength and spiritual power.’
Kimi fluffed up and cocked her head. ‘And you did. You are more powerful than Kikyo. She was jealous of you. You kept her from taking down InuYasha. Once you were out of the way, she could have easily dragged InuYasha to hell with her.’ Kagome sighed at the sound of InuYasha’s name. “He hates me, thinks I destroyed Kikyo. He still loves her...” Kimi shook her head. ‘I don’t believe that’s true. I see it in a different point of view.’
“He ran away from me! When I stepped toward him he backed off like he wanted to be as far away from me as possible. His expression...It was as if someone had beat him to the ground...it’s tormenting me inside. I can’t believe I hurt him like that. I never wanted to hurt anyone. But what was I supposed to do? Let her kill me? Would that have made him happy?”
Kimi hissed at Kagome sending a strong, stern message into her head. ‘Stop whining over him! Grow up Kagome! Don’t you have a reunion to enjoy? It’s your birthday in a couple days. InuYasha will come around eventually so leave it be and live your life!’ Kagome was shocked. But she knew the bird was right. She would be with friends and family, it was a time to party and forget about the worries and problems that plagued the mind.
“I guess you’re right...but I wanted him to come.” ‘Who knows, maybe he will. Now then, I think it’s about time you get ready to go back. Didn’t your mom want you back early?’ “Yeah.” Kagome got up and held out her arm for Kimi to perch on. The bird sailed to the offered arm and landed neatly, fluffing back up. ‘Let’s go.’
Shift...
InuYasha could make out an old bull munching some oats in a bucket. The thick air smelled of ash, metal, and molten rock. This is defiantly the place. He arrived at the entrance of the black smith’s home and barged in as if he owned the place. “Hey old man! You’d better be here!” “What? Who’s there? InuYasha is that you?” Came a hoarse voice followed by the clang of metal.
“I need you to forge me a strip of metal in the angle of a bow. I need strong, light metal, something that can be held with one hand.” Totosai scratched his head in confusion. “In the angle of a bow?” “Yeah, and I want my fang combined with it. Is there a problem with that? I’ll pay you when it’s done. I need it by morning. Can you do it?” InuYasha asked impatiently. He knew the old man could be stubborn and he didn’t feel like fighting with him.
“By morning? If you need it that badly, I guess I could do it. Why?” “None of your business. Just have it ready.” InuYasha growled. “If you want your fang in it then open up. I don’t see what you’re up to, but my guess is that you want to protect someone or something.” “Just shut up and get it over with.” “Then hold still!” Totosai reached out and plucked InuYasha’s fang with one yank of the pliers. InuYasha bite back a yelp and restrained his fist from pounding the old man out of habit. He ran his tongue over the hole in his mouth and growled. “It’ll grow back in a day or so.” The old man reminded him. “What ever.” InuYasha called, already on his way out. Totosai puzzled over InuYasha’s sudden visit and retreat. “Must be in a hurry...hmm.”
Shift...
Kagome slapped at her alarm clock, blindly pushing buttons until she was forced to get up and turn it off. She pushed off the covers and rubbed the sleep from her eyes. Today, they would be leaving for the reunion. It was a two hour drive into the next city, so they would have to leave a bit early. With a yawn, Kagome stumbled to the bathroom to grab a quick shower.
She hurriedly dressed and ran down to eat breakfast afterwards. Sota had beaten her as always, not that she cared. “Hey sis, you all packed?” He asked cheerfully. Kagome just nodded, still not quite awake yet. “Here, this is your room number, you’re staying with two other cousins, I forgot who though. You got lucky. You have the top floor in the hotel. I have the second floor. Room 31 I think.” Sota stuffed his mouth with a spoonful of cereal.
“When are we leaving?” Kagome asked, grabbing some toast on the table. “As soon as we’ve got the car loaded.” Kagome’s mother said, entering the kitchen with bags in each hand. “Need some help?” Kagome left breakfast and ran to the door to open it. “Thanks dear, bring down your stuff and take it to the car. Sota when you get finished you do the same. Where’s Gramps at?” “I think he’s in the shrine cleaning up.” Sota said as he got up to put his bowl in the sink. “He said something about sealing out spirits or something... You know him, always with the superstition...”
Kagome rolled her eyes at that fact. She went upstairs and gathered her luggage for the four day ‘Holiday’. Her mom had advised her to pack an extra empty bag and the thought of that made her smile. She couldn’t wait to get to the reunion. Tomorrow was her birthday and she was determined to enjoy herself.
Skipping down out to the car, Kagome shoved her suitcases into the trunk along with all the other bags. Man, for a reunion we sure are taking a lot... I feel like we’re going camping. She left to find her mother. “Kagome, is everything ready?” “Yeah I think so, I’ll go back and make sure I’m not leaving anything.” Taking the stairs two at a time, she jogged back to her room. I think that was everythi...wait. I almost forgot. A small package was sitting on her desk. I need to drop this off at least... She walked over and picked it up, the hurt that had been locked up temporarily, slowly easing out.
Kagome sat down on her bed, her eyes clouding over as she recalled that happy day just walking through the city. She had been shopping for Sango’s birthday, when a glint caught her attention in a window. “Oh!” Curiosity had taken control and dragged her inside the small shop to examine the shiny object more closely.
Kagome smiled and laughed at the memory. She hadn’t intended to get anything from that particular shop, but as luck would have it, she had come out with what her eyes had spied. Now I wonder if he’ll accept it. He threw the locket back at me when I gave it to him. And then I found him wearing it when he came to save me inside the dream castle. I even kissed him to save his sorry butt from becoming a Full Demon and he had the nerve to basically say it meant nothing. But he kissed me under the tree, he bit me! And...Oh InuYasha I’m so confused. Why did you leave me? Why did you run, I didn’t do it! Why do you still love Kikyo? Am I only a stuffed animal to squeeze for false comfort? Come back to me...
A knock on the door made Kagome jump and she quickly wiped the fresh tears from her eyes. She blinked back her emotions and faced her mother who stood in the doorway. “Kagome? What’s wrong?” “Nothing mom. I just need to go back to the Feudal Era for ten minutes. Forgot to do something.” Her mother nodded understandingly. “Alright. Just be back in thirty minutes. Are you sure you’re ok?” “Yeah, I, uh...don’t feel too good that’s all.” She came up with a quick lie, feeling even worse for lying to her mother. But she didn’t want questions or anyone’s sympathy.
“I’ll only be a few minutes.” Kagome clutched the small package tightly in her palm and fled past her mother who shook her head and gave a sad smile. Kagome ran to the shrine and leapt into the Well. Back in the Feudal Era, she jogged back to Kaede’s village, hoping by some miracle that InuYasha would be there. She was panting by the time she reached Kaede’s hut. “Kagome?” Sango looked up, surprised to see her breathless friend. The Demon Slayer threw a cloth over what she was working on and led Kagome out for obvious reasons.
“What are you doing here? I thought you were leaving today?” Kagome tried to catch her breath and held up the package she held in her palm. “Is InuYasha here?” Her voice held the note of hope, but it was crushed like she expected it to be as Sango shook her head. “No, we haven’t seen him. Why?” “Oh...well, ...if you see him, could you give this to him?” Kagome’s voice suddenly became low, filled with disappointment. She handed Sango the package and tried to smile, though it was hard to do it.
“Yeah, I’ll give it to him.” Oh I’ll give it to him alright! “Thanks. I have to get back, we’re all set. Everyone’s waiting on me.” “Here, take Kirara with you, she can give you a ride back. Kirara?” Sango called for her companion who popped up out of nowhere. Kirara transformed into her larger-self and let Kagome onto her back. “Kagome. Please try not to worry so much. Have a good time. Relax and enjoy your birthday. It only comes once a year you know.” Kagome finally gave a true smile. “Thanks Sango, for everything.” Kirara leapt into the air with a delighted growl and plunged into the dense forest. The two-tail dodged tree branches and arrived at the Well in only a couple minutes. Kagome waved Kirara off and jumped in to the other world, the Present.
Shift...
Kimi locked her wings as she caught a thermal and steadily rose higher into the sky. When Kagome had gone back to her own world, Kimi had set out to find InuYasha. She was determined to open up the Half-Demon’s eyes to what was around him. It was obvious that he loved Kagome, but he wasn’t exactly doing what was supposed to done. Kagome would never save the Valker and tap into her hidden powers if she kept thinking about him like she had been from day one. The Miko needed a clear, fresh mind, needed to be able to concentrate on what would lay ahead. Soon, very soon, the time would come. Kimi could feel it. The sleeping Valker were stirring. They would be roused from the eternal slumber and would pull at their chains in fury, waiting to be freed, waiting to be tamed. The Priestess needed to be able to control them, she had to be strong. InuYasha was only tearing her apart. That had to change.
Kimi gazed down at the land below her. The wind licked her feathers and guided her on her quest. She could make out a village with ant-sized people scattered about the fields. It felt good to fly again. Being bitten by a Demon was not a pleasant experience. Dieing from its poison was even worse. Lucky thing Kagome was there at the right time. Other wise it would be another hundred years before a chance like this ever came to pass, and by then it might be too late. The cycle had to end. It had to end now, with Kagome. She could stop it, change things.
Now if only I could find InuYasha! Kimi dove down, folding her wings to escape the thermal that had offered a free ride. It would be easier to search closer to the ground. He was close by, hiding somewhere in this area, his scent mingled in the trees. She kept her eyes open for the red kimono he wore.
Shift...
InuYasha sat down deep in thought. He held a long, slender bow in his hand, newly made. Hidden inside the shining cherry-brown wood was a thin strip of metal with his fang molded into it. How Totosai had managed to combine the wood and metal as one was puzzling, but he didn’t complain.
The slick wood glinted from the sun light that filtered through the trees. Now I have to put a design on it but what? What do I use? How do I do it? This is all new to me. The Shikon Jewel came to mind. I could put the Jewel right here...and...Kimi! I could put her at the top, I could make an out-line of a bird. That idea popped into his head when he spotted the bird landing on a near-by branch. Wait a minute, Kimi? Where did she come from?
He shrugged and decided to use the bird to his advantage. It would be easier to carve the figure at the top with something to actually look at. But what to use...his claws! He could claw in what he wanted... His doubt quickly overcame him. I’ve never done anything like this, I’ll mess up and Kagome will laugh at it. He was ready to quite when Kimi suddenly landed on his shoulder. He tried to shoo the bird off but she clung tightly to his shirt. He gave up batting at her and stared down at the bow on his lap.
Kimi settled comfortably on his shoulder and concentrated hard, trying to tap into his mind. She struggled for a time, shocked that the Half-Demon had such a blocked up memory. It was like he had stored everything in steel boxes with twenty key holes bolted shut and chains wrapped around it. He didn’t want to remember his past and refused to look to the future. So that was his problem. He was afraid. Afraid to trust, just like Kagome.
Finally, Kimi broke into the dark void, plunging deep into InuYasha’s thoughts, reading them, trying to understand what he wanted, what he was up to. The only thing she managed to unlock was his present thoughts. He was worried about the bow. He thought Kagome would laugh if he messed up. He wanted to carve something into it, the Shikon Jewel and...Me? How flattering. I think it’s time to give a boost of confidence.
Kimi tried to blind InuYasha’s doubts. She filtered them out and replaced them with new thoughts, giving him the sudden feeling that he knew what to do and how to do it. She watched quietly as InuYasha blinked and looked down at the bow. He smiled to himself and bent over to get started. He used his claws to ‘sketch’ the out-line of the Shikon Jewel by scratching the wood. Before he knew it, it was finished.
He shook his head in disbelief at what he had just done, not knowing that it was Kimi who had helped him. Her power was wearing off, but she didn’t need to boost his confidence again. Now he was sure of himself, the doubt gone for the moment, so Kimi hopped from his shoulder and stood a few feet away to pose for him. InuYasha stared at the bird for a few minutes, trying to glue the form in his head. He couldn’t make a detailed carving, feathers were too complicated, not to mention too tiny.
By the time InuYasha was satisfied, the sun was setting. He wondered how long it had taken, but it didn’t matter. The bow was done. Kimi puffed her feathers out and gave a squeak of delight. ‘It’s pretty. I like. Kagome will like.’ InuYasha sighed. “You think so? ...Wait...who said that?” InuYasha jumped up and looked around, spotting no one. The only creature with him was Kimi. He eyed the bird and shook his head. Must have been my imagination...Well anyway, I need to get this to Kagome. I’m late. She left a couple days ago I bet. He stretched to wake his sleeping muscles, glancing at Kimi once more.
“Hey bird. Why are you following me? Shoo. Stupid bird.” Kimi only hissed and flew up to a high branch. She fluffed her feathers as if laughing at him, her tail ruffling in a playful manner. ‘Make me.’ She waited for him to say something. “No time to mess with you stupid bird, so stop following me.” InuYasha growled, trying to ignore the puzzling voice that tickled his mind. Could it be the bird? Was this what Kagome was talking about? ‘Why don’t you like me? Why are you always mad?’
InuYasha continued to eye Kimi, not believing what he was hearing. The bird was talking to him! It had to be the bird...or maybe the sun was getting to him. ‘The sun has done nothing. Kimi speaks, you finally listen. Not deaf anymore. Is that for Kagome? Pretty.’ Kimi hopped down to a lower branch. ‘Do you like Kagome? She cries for you. She thinks you ran away from her. You hurt her, you always hurt her. Why?’ InuYasha tried to speak, but nothing came out. He couldn’t come up with anything to say. She’s crying? I need to get back...
He turned to walk away, forgetting about Kimi. Kimi guessed her words had spilled some sense into InuYasha’s head. She sighed and slid from her perch, circling over InuYasha’s head. She had done what she had come to do. It had been easier than she had expected. He already had his mind set, but he had needed a little push and Kimi supplied it. The rest was up to him. Too bad I can’t follow them to Kagome’s world... But I suppose it’s for the best.
Shift...
InuYasha ran at a speedy pace. Kaede’s village was getting close and as he had expected, Kagome’s scent wasn’t in the air. She was probably at home. He charged ahead with Kimi over head. She seemed to be enjoying herself, making loopy circled in the sky.
‘There’s a Demon coming, a big one!’ Kimi screeched suddenly. She flew ahead, breaking from her lazy circles, warning the stunned InuYasha of the possible danger. The Half-Demon had forgotten about Kimi speaking to him and he nearly tripped as he came to a halt. He sniffed the air, catching the scent of what Kimi saw. “Damn. I don’t have time to mess with stupid Demons!”
InuYasha felt the ground tremble as a massive Bear Demon approached him. “Get out of the way,” InuYasha growled in an irritated voice. “Or I’ll slice you in half!” The Demon ignored the threat and gave one of his own. “You smell of a Half-Demon. Dare to challenge me! I’ll crush you.”
InuYasha only rolled his eyes, drawing Tetsusaiga from its sheath. “Feh. Fat chance. Get out of my way, you’re wasting my time!” He leapt at the Bear, aiming to use the Wind Scar. The Demon’s speed was faster than he had judged, and a large paw swung at him, slamming him into a tree. “Damn you!” InuYasha cursed, dragging himself up. He dodged the next blow as the Bear lunged at him, trees snapping like small branches as it missed its target.
InuYasha was worried that the bow would get damaged as he leapt from tree branch to tree branch, the Demon crashing behind him. He jumped high over the trees and swung around to face his foe. The Bear lost sight of him, not expecting InuYasha to jump into the sky. Now’s my chance. InuYasha cut into the air with his sword, aiming at the Demon below. “Wind Scar!”
The Bear took the blow head on, the Wind Scar cutting into its flesh and bone. It collapsed to the ground, its body instantly disintegrating into the air. “Damn . The sun is setting and I’m late as it is. Kagome probably hates me. She’s going to Sit me I know it.” InuYasha drifted from the sky and landed next to the Bear Demon’s “grave”. He tugged the bow around in front of him from his back and sighed with relief. I thought it would brake after being slammed against that tree. It’s a good thing I used the same wood that was used for my sheath. It’s quite amazing... He slung it back over his shoulder and took off back to Kaede’s. Kimi flew over head, resuming her lazy circling glide.
________________________________________________________________ _____
End of ch 4! Keep reading! Go on to the next chapter! A large chunk of Drama on the way:) I’m glad some of you think it’s interesting. It’s hard working with this fanfic. I keep having to create this scene, change this, change that, throw out one part, add another...Frustrating! But it’s fun and worth doing! Hope you liked this chapter. Oh, and I apologize to any Kikyo fans out there for killing her in this chapter, but it had to be done because I HATE her above everything else. InuYasha and Kagome are my fav. characters and Kikyo keeps interfering so...I chose my own way of dealing with her, even though I already know how she really ‘dies’ for the second time on the real episodes. Lemon in ch 5! (Hint Hint) or maybe I should move it to ch 6… PS. This chapter has been proofed and all the ‘s’ words were filled in. For some reason, the computer cut off MOST words that included Demons, Birds, Hated, Dead, and Miko. Don’t ask, but I hope it’s all fixed now! Onward to chapter 5!