InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Remnants of the Spider ❯ Decisions and Resolve ( Chapter 11 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
Remnants of the Spider
Decisions and Resolve
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“Mmmm…”
The quiet feminine sigh drifted into the breeze of the sprawling meadow. It was a quiet and peaceful place. The grass was lush, green, and surprisingly free of insects. The air was warm and clean, and the sky was a bright powder blue. It was a beautiful, if not unusual place in the lack of trees, buildings and wildlife.
Kagome rolled onto her side, snuggling more deeply into the soft green grass. She didn’t know where she was, all she knew was that she felt so peaceful, so content. She had no recollection of how she came to be here, but she had no desire to leave anytime soon.
Her eyes opened slightly, and a small lazy smile formed on her lips. The young miko ran her hand through the grass near her face. She watched with unusual interest as the green strands slid effortlessly through her fingers. As she separated the threads to an isolated strand, she was surprised by how soft and silky it felt. ‘What kind of grass is this?’ she wondered in mild amazement. She had never felt grass like this before. It was so impossibly soft. Like threads of silk sprouting up from the ground.
She yawned and stretched languidly, before rolling onto her back once again. As she looked into the soft blue sky, something suddenly tickled the back of her mind. Her brows drew together slightly. It almost felt as if she had forgotten something; something important. She placed her left hand beneath her head, and allowed her right one to rest on her stomach. A small gasp escaped her lips, and she urgently sat up. She placed her hand on her chest, immediately noting the lack of moisture. There had been blood here before; an injury a really, really bad injury.
Kagome quickly scrambled to her feet, and began looking around nervously. Where was everyone? What… had happened to them? What had happened to her?
Unexplainably, an invisible blanket of comfort wrapped itself around her. A small sigh escaped her, as her mind was instantly put at ease, and her heart began to calm.
“What is this place?” Kagome asked herself quietly. “Why am I here?” She looked all around her, and was surprised, and slightly disappointed to see that there was nothing around her, nothing but grass. As far as the eye could see there was nothing but this strange luxurious green grass, and endless powder blue skies. She didn’t even see the sun. The sky was perfectly clear, so where was the sun?
She was just about to take her first tentative step, when a strange surge of energy brushed against her back. She spun around quickly, and noticed a long staircase that she was certain had not been there before. Her eyes briefly scanned the clean, perfectly level slabs of stone, one stacked atop another as they ascended a large grassy knoll. Kagome rubbed her chin pensively. “Yeah… I’m sure this wasn’t here a minute ago.”
As she followed the staircase with her eyes she quickly noticed the large Torii (gate) at the top. From this vantage point she could not see any buildings. But the Torii was a dead giveaway. A shrine… There must have been a shrine at the top of the staircase. She glanced around her again, and saw that nothing else seemed out of place. Then with a light shrug, she headed for the stairs. Maybe someone in the shrine could tell her what was going on.
She quickly closed the distance between herself and the stairs, but before she could lift her foot to the first step, a transparent figure began to appear near the lower end of the staircase. Kagome immediately paused in her movements but did not back away. She probably should have been afraid, but something she could not fully understand, made her feel as if everything would be okay; that there was nothing for her to fear. Her eyes widened slightly as the figure began to take shape.
It was a woman. A priestess, her mind specified helpfully. Though the female remained somewhat transparent, Kagome could now make out her various features. She could clearly see a lovely feminine face, with large brown eyes, a gentle smile, and flawless porcelain skin. The woman looked relatively young, yet her long, silken hair was nearly white. Thin ashen strands caught the breeze and danced around the miko giving her a celestial appearance. Her white haori was also unusual, in that the oversized sleeves billowed and fluttered in the light flow of air as it weighed practically nothing at all. Her hakama too fluttered and swayed around her in a way which did not seem quite natural. It was almost like watching someone who was floating through water.
Though the woman appeared to move slowly, she descended the stairs rather quickly, and now was standing before her. The miko was slightly taller than Kagome, and though the young miko was certain she had never met the other female before, she felt an instant connection with her. It was like being reunited with a long lost family member.
“Hi.” Kagome’s voice came out in a breathless whisper, as the miko’s eyes locked with her own.
“Hello Kagome.” the woman greeted, her smile widening slightly.
The younger miko blinked slowly, and gave a respectful bow. “Forgive me, Miko-same, but how do you know my name?”
“I know the name of every priestess who’s life has been touched by the Shikon no Tama.”
“The Shikon no Tama?” Kagome repeated quietly.
The miko nodded slightly. “Please, come with me. We have much to discuss.
Uncertain as to where they were going, Kagome simply nodded. The miko turned away, walking toward a large cherry tree that, just like the staircase, had not been there moments before. Kagome’s eyes widened in amazement as she took in the sight of the majestic flowering tree. A few pink petals fluttered from the branches, and wafted to the ground like a gentle rain. The blossoms were in full bloom, spreading their light fragrance through the air.
Kagome followed the miko, who soon seated herself in the shade of the tree. The younger miko followed suit, and for a moment, the two females faced one another in silence.
“Forgive my discourtesy,” the miko began finally. “My name is Masuyo.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Masuyo-sama. Can you tell me what this place is, and why I’m here? Do you know what happened to my friend Miroku? He was terribly injured the last time I saw him. And Kikyou…?” she trailed off she was feeling slightly panicked. She was worried about her friends, and even Kikyou. She had never been friends with the elder miko, but she’d promised to give back the portion of her soul she’d retrieved from her. She couldn’t break a promise like that!
The miko gave her a patient grin. “I understand that you have many questions. I will explain everything in due time, but first, it is important that I tell you who I am.”
Calming herself as much as she could, Kagome nodded and waited for her to continue. “I was once a priestess, much like yourself. In fact, I was the second priestess who’s life was touched by the Shikon jewel. The first of course, being Midoriko herself. The jewel was entrusted to me when I was very young. I spent my entire life as a devoted miko, and protector of the Shikon jewel. Many demons came after it, seeking the promise of undeserved power. Most of which died by my own hand. All except…” she paused and sighed slightly. “The final one.
I was twelve years of age when I took possession of the jewel. I went on to protect it for fifty-six years. My spiritual power had only become stronger with age, but my physical body weakened. One day a powerful demon came to me demanding that I surrender the jewel. I told him that I would sooner die than hand it over. And so he attacked, and a terrible battle was fought. In the end, I was able to destroy the demon, but not before taking on mortal injury myself.
In my final moments of life, I entrusted the jewel to my most powerful and devoted apprentice. I hated to leave her with such a burdensome responsibility, but it was all I could think to do. I trusted her to keep the jewel safe, when I no longer could.
When I awoke again, I found myself in this place. A short time later, the goddess Amaterasu, appeared before me. She told me that she and the other gods had watched over me during my life, and that they had been pleased with my dedication to protecting the jewel. She asked me if I wished to continue protecting it. I told her that I would do what ever It took to keep the jewel from the hands of evil.” she paused and for a moment, a serious look on her face. “The Shikon no tama in and of itself is benign. It is neither good, nor evil. In the wrong hands however, there is no limit to the damage that can be done. Had Naraku survived, things would have been dire indeed.
And so begun my task to find a miko who is both powerful, and pure of heart. Amaterasu-sama informed me that the jewel needed to be destroyed. She told me that from this place I could guide the jewel to a priestess who would finally rid the world of its presence and the danger that it posed.” she smiled brightly. “You, Kagome have succeeded where all others have failed. For centuries I have guided the jewel from one priestess to another, attempting to find the one who would be able to destroy it. Many priestesses died trying. Only you did so successfully.”
Kagome’s eyes widened in shock. “I-I died?!” she looked down to where the wound had been on her chest. “I died…” she said quietly.
Masuyo nodded sagely. “Yes, Kagome. You were dealt a fatal wound after you destroyed the jewel.” She then gestured to the shrine. “I created this shrine as a resting place for the miko who spent any portion of their lives protecting the jewel. I hated having to impose such a burdensome task onto so many women, but it was necessary. Many of the priestesses spent vast portions of their lives fighting to keep the jewel safe. The least I could offer them is peace in death.”
So many thoughts were going through Kagome’s mind. She had so many questions, but she hardly knew where to begin. “You brought me back through time didn’t you?” she asked already knowing the answer.
“It was necessary.” Masuyo told her. “As I said, had Naraku survived, it would have been calamitous. He was a very dangerous demon, and his plans went beyond the Shikon jewel.”
Kagome nodded her understanding. As she looked toward the shrine, something occurred to her. “So all of the priestesses who protected the Shikon jewel are in the shrine?” When Masuyo nodded she continued. “So does that mean that Midoriko is in there too? She should have been released from the jewel once it was destroyed, right?”
The elder miko smiled as if she had been expecting this question. “Yes. Midoriko is here. You cannot imagine how pleased I was to see her again.”
Kagome gasped lightly. “So you know her?!”
Masuyo nodded. “Quite well actually. You see, she is my sister.”
Kagome’s eyes widened. “Your sister?!”
The miko’s smile widened. “Yes. When we were alive, she told me of her plans to engage a terrible demon in battle. She said that if she did not return home within seven days, I was to come after her. When the allotted time had come and she had not returned, I went after her as instructed. That is when I discovered that she had been unable to defeat the demon. She used the last of her spiritual power to seal it, with her own soul. Essentially, her soul and that of the demons’ became the Shikon jewel. When I found her, her body had been turned to stone along with the demons‘. She had sealed their remains inside a cave. As her sister, I was able to pass through her barrier. When I saw the stone form that had been my sister, I immediately knew what she must have done. The jewel, the combination of her soul, and the demon’s had been expelled from her chest. I found it on the cave floor, and took possession of it. I have guarded and guided it ever since.
Kagome could hardly believe her ears. She remembered the story of the Shikon jewel, but now she was sitting here with Midoriko’s own sister! “Will I get to meet her?” she asked hopefully.
Masuyo sobered slightly, before looking toward the shrine. “I am afraid that will not be possible. My sister has been trapped inside of the jewel for a very long time. Her soul is very tired, and requires rest.”
Kagome nodded. “Maybe later then.” she said quietly, but Masuyo gave her an odd look.
“What about my friends?” the young miko asked suddenly. “What happened to them? Is Miroku going to be okay?”
The elder priestess smiled again. “I was just getting to that. Do you remember the wish you made before you died?” Kagome nodded, and Masuyo pressed on. “The sacred jewel was a very powerful thing. Even a single shard held the ability to strengthen a demon tenfold.” she paused and gave her a serious look. “Naraku’s evils were many. He ended, and destroyed the lives of human’s and demons alike. Your wish was pure, Kagome but such a wish cannot be fully granted. To undo all of Naraku’s evils would be to restore the lives of hundreds of demons and humans. The natural order of things would be disrupted.”
“He… he died didn’t he?” Kagome asked quietly, knowing where this conversation must have been leading.
The priestess nodded. He did.” she reached forward, and patted her hand comfortingly. “But do not despair. You have the power to change his fate.”
Kagome’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”
“Your wish of course.” she said, ignoring the confused look the younger woman was giving her. “As I said, the wish that you made cannot be fully granted. However, the lives that were lost this day can be restored if you so wish it.”
“Yes! Of course! Why wouldn’t I want that?!”
Masuyo gave her a meaningful look. “Are you certain you know what you are wishing for? The wish will not encompass yourself, as it was made before you were injured. And if you recall, the monk was not the only one who died.”
“My soul will return to Kikyou’s body.” she said quietly. “I thought about that before I made the wish.” She looked down and began to play with the silky strands of grass beneath her. Many different thoughts passed through her mind. After a moment or two, she spoke up. “I knew that that was a possibility. I’ll admit that I don’t really want to return to Kikyou’s body, but I stand by my wish.”
The priestess smiled. “I thought you might say that.”
Kagome was somewhat confused by the woman’s cheerful expression, but refrained from saying anything.
“This is why your wish was a pure one Kagome. You made your wish knowing that there was no happy ending for you. You knew that your soul would either return to Kikyou’s body, or, you would be forced to return to your own time, and never return to see your friends again.” Her smile widened slightly, as she reached into the billowing sleeves of her haori. When she withdrew her right hand a large white orb rested in her palm.
Kagome looked at the orb curiously. It looked like something she had seen before. An unnatural glow surrounded the object, and the image of sad brown eyes wafted through her mind. It reminded her of the souls Kikyou‘s serpent demons used to collect. The only difference was that it was larger than any she had ever seen before. “What is that?” she asked finally.
“This… is Kikyou’s soul. You made your wish believing that you were her reincarnate, but you are not.”
Kagome gasped, and Masuyo could practically see the many questions in the young woman’s eyes.
“You must remember Kagome, that I have been guiding the Shikon jewel for centuries. When Kikyou died, her soul came here to my shrine,” she paused and smiled. “And the jewel returned with her. After her death, another priestess was born with the jewel in her body. You see, Kikyou was neither the first, nor the last priestess who thought to bring the jewel into the afterlife with them. It has returned to my possession many times, and many times I returned it to the land of the living.
For reasons I still do not know, I was only permitted to guide the jewel. I could not destroy it myself. And so, again and again I sent it back. That is why you were born with the Shikon jewel in your body.”
The younger woman frowned in confusion. “But then how was my soul able to animate Kikyou’s body?”
“It is simple. The two of you share many similarities. When she was alive, Kikyou’s heart was pure, much like your own. Additionally, the spiritual power the two of you possess had been very similar. The clay body which was created from Kikyou’s ashes could not differentiate between your soul, and the soul that had previously inhabited her original body. The fact that you and Kikyou share a similar physical appearance is completely coincidental.”
Kagome thought over the information she had just received. It seemed to make sense. All this time she had believed she was Kikyou’s reincarnate. It was actually a little strange to find out that she wasn’t. Then she remembered something else Masuyo had just said. “You said that our spiritual powers had been similar? I had always assumed that Kikyou was much more powerful than me.”
“Kikyou was never more powerful than you. She had trained her powers since childhood. The proficiency she displayed was a result of her training, not her natural ability. There is a distinct difference.” she sighed quietly. “However, you should know that your powers are no longer comparable to hers.”
Kagome frowned at this. “What do you mean?”
“You absorbed a great deal of power when you destroyed the jewel. As of this moment, your spiritual power surpasses even that of my sister.”
“Wow!” she said quietly. “It’s too bad I’m dead. I could probably have helped a lot of people if I’d survived.”
A knowing smile stretched across Masuyo’s lips. “Amaterasu-sama has entrusted me with the souls of all Shikon-miko, Kagome.” a small melodic chuckle escaped her lips. “I can send you back.”
Kagome’s eyes brightened. “You can?! Would you really do that?”
Masuyo nodded. “A short time ago, you told me that you would stand by the wish you made on the jewel. Do you still wish to do so? Think it over before you answer, for this is your final chance to renege.”
Kagome looked at the glowing orb the priestess was still holding. She knew what Masuyo was asking her. If she stood by her wish, she would be alive again, but so would Kikyou. She would return to the world of the living, but to do so would mean that she would very likely loose Inuyasha in the process. With Kikyou alive again, she knew she would stand little chance of winning the hanyou’s heart.
Masuyo watched the young woman as she mulled over her thoughts. After a few moments, Kagome looked up at her, resolve and a hint of resignation shining in her eyes. “I will stand by my wish.” she heard the girl say.
“I suspected that you would.” She then held her hand out, offering the orb to the younger woman. “Then I will entrust Kikyou’s soul to you. You do remember the promise you made to her?”
Kagome nodded as she accepted the shimmering globe.
The priestess noted the crestfallen look on the young woman’s face. “I know what this means for you Kagome. I know what you stand to loose by going back.” She stood and extended a hand to help the young priestess up. Kagome offered her free hand, and Masuyo helped pull her to her feet. The two women walked slowly until they came to the small slightly matted patch of grass that marked the spot where Kagome had first appeared. She turned back to Kagome and gestured to the spot.
Assuming the miko wished her to sit; Kagome seated herself in the grass. The moment she did, a powerful fatigue washed over her. She swayed unsteadily, but managed not to topple over. Masuyo kneeled next to her, and touched her cheek softly. “You know as well as I that not all demons are evil. Only a rare few priestesses are as open minded as yourself and Kikyou. Mikos and demons tend to consider themselves natural enemies. However, the rare few who can rise above the hate and prejudice are rewarded greatly. Remember that, Kagome.”
She didn’t really understand what the elder woman was talking about, but she gave her a sleepy nod. Masuyo placed a hand on the base of her neck, and helped her lie down.
The young miko fought to keep her eyes opened. As her vision began to fade, she saw the priestess’s kind face smiling down on her. “There are more trials ahead of you yet, Kagome, but you must trust your heart at all times. It will never mislead you.”
Kagome nodded again. “Thank you Masuyo-sama.” she said quietly as she closed her eyes. Soon a strange sensation washed over her. It almost felt as if she was floating in warm water, and for a moment everything was dark and quiet. She wasn’t quite sure when it happened, but the air around her suddenly changed. Suddenly it was no longer crisp and clean. She was certain she could smell traces of Naraku’s miasma, and scorched grass. She could hear a woman crying nearby, and she was suddenly having hard time breathing. She attempted to move, but was unable to do so. A powerful set of arms held her firmly in place, practically crushing her against an equally powerful chest. She opened her eyes, blinking several times to clear the fog from her vision.
When she was able to focus. She could see silver hair and a red fire rat haori near her face.”
“Stupid, stupid, stupid girl! I told you to stay out of it! I TOLD YOU! Why do you always have to be so reckless? Why?!” She heard the familiar voice near her right ear.
“Inuyasha?” she called quietly.
A small gasp reached her ears, and the silver-haired form pulled away to look at her. Watery golden eyes stared down on her in undisguised amazement.
“Kagome?!?”
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Decisions and Resolve
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“Mmmm…”
The quiet feminine sigh drifted into the breeze of the sprawling meadow. It was a quiet and peaceful place. The grass was lush, green, and surprisingly free of insects. The air was warm and clean, and the sky was a bright powder blue. It was a beautiful, if not unusual place in the lack of trees, buildings and wildlife.
Kagome rolled onto her side, snuggling more deeply into the soft green grass. She didn’t know where she was, all she knew was that she felt so peaceful, so content. She had no recollection of how she came to be here, but she had no desire to leave anytime soon.
Her eyes opened slightly, and a small lazy smile formed on her lips. The young miko ran her hand through the grass near her face. She watched with unusual interest as the green strands slid effortlessly through her fingers. As she separated the threads to an isolated strand, she was surprised by how soft and silky it felt. ‘What kind of grass is this?’ she wondered in mild amazement. She had never felt grass like this before. It was so impossibly soft. Like threads of silk sprouting up from the ground.
She yawned and stretched languidly, before rolling onto her back once again. As she looked into the soft blue sky, something suddenly tickled the back of her mind. Her brows drew together slightly. It almost felt as if she had forgotten something; something important. She placed her left hand beneath her head, and allowed her right one to rest on her stomach. A small gasp escaped her lips, and she urgently sat up. She placed her hand on her chest, immediately noting the lack of moisture. There had been blood here before; an injury a really, really bad injury.
Kagome quickly scrambled to her feet, and began looking around nervously. Where was everyone? What… had happened to them? What had happened to her?
Unexplainably, an invisible blanket of comfort wrapped itself around her. A small sigh escaped her, as her mind was instantly put at ease, and her heart began to calm.
“What is this place?” Kagome asked herself quietly. “Why am I here?” She looked all around her, and was surprised, and slightly disappointed to see that there was nothing around her, nothing but grass. As far as the eye could see there was nothing but this strange luxurious green grass, and endless powder blue skies. She didn’t even see the sun. The sky was perfectly clear, so where was the sun?
She was just about to take her first tentative step, when a strange surge of energy brushed against her back. She spun around quickly, and noticed a long staircase that she was certain had not been there before. Her eyes briefly scanned the clean, perfectly level slabs of stone, one stacked atop another as they ascended a large grassy knoll. Kagome rubbed her chin pensively. “Yeah… I’m sure this wasn’t here a minute ago.”
As she followed the staircase with her eyes she quickly noticed the large Torii (gate) at the top. From this vantage point she could not see any buildings. But the Torii was a dead giveaway. A shrine… There must have been a shrine at the top of the staircase. She glanced around her again, and saw that nothing else seemed out of place. Then with a light shrug, she headed for the stairs. Maybe someone in the shrine could tell her what was going on.
She quickly closed the distance between herself and the stairs, but before she could lift her foot to the first step, a transparent figure began to appear near the lower end of the staircase. Kagome immediately paused in her movements but did not back away. She probably should have been afraid, but something she could not fully understand, made her feel as if everything would be okay; that there was nothing for her to fear. Her eyes widened slightly as the figure began to take shape.
It was a woman. A priestess, her mind specified helpfully. Though the female remained somewhat transparent, Kagome could now make out her various features. She could clearly see a lovely feminine face, with large brown eyes, a gentle smile, and flawless porcelain skin. The woman looked relatively young, yet her long, silken hair was nearly white. Thin ashen strands caught the breeze and danced around the miko giving her a celestial appearance. Her white haori was also unusual, in that the oversized sleeves billowed and fluttered in the light flow of air as it weighed practically nothing at all. Her hakama too fluttered and swayed around her in a way which did not seem quite natural. It was almost like watching someone who was floating through water.
Though the woman appeared to move slowly, she descended the stairs rather quickly, and now was standing before her. The miko was slightly taller than Kagome, and though the young miko was certain she had never met the other female before, she felt an instant connection with her. It was like being reunited with a long lost family member.
“Hi.” Kagome’s voice came out in a breathless whisper, as the miko’s eyes locked with her own.
“Hello Kagome.” the woman greeted, her smile widening slightly.
The younger miko blinked slowly, and gave a respectful bow. “Forgive me, Miko-same, but how do you know my name?”
“I know the name of every priestess who’s life has been touched by the Shikon no Tama.”
“The Shikon no Tama?” Kagome repeated quietly.
The miko nodded slightly. “Please, come with me. We have much to discuss.
Uncertain as to where they were going, Kagome simply nodded. The miko turned away, walking toward a large cherry tree that, just like the staircase, had not been there moments before. Kagome’s eyes widened in amazement as she took in the sight of the majestic flowering tree. A few pink petals fluttered from the branches, and wafted to the ground like a gentle rain. The blossoms were in full bloom, spreading their light fragrance through the air.
Kagome followed the miko, who soon seated herself in the shade of the tree. The younger miko followed suit, and for a moment, the two females faced one another in silence.
“Forgive my discourtesy,” the miko began finally. “My name is Masuyo.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Masuyo-sama. Can you tell me what this place is, and why I’m here? Do you know what happened to my friend Miroku? He was terribly injured the last time I saw him. And Kikyou…?” she trailed off she was feeling slightly panicked. She was worried about her friends, and even Kikyou. She had never been friends with the elder miko, but she’d promised to give back the portion of her soul she’d retrieved from her. She couldn’t break a promise like that!
The miko gave her a patient grin. “I understand that you have many questions. I will explain everything in due time, but first, it is important that I tell you who I am.”
Calming herself as much as she could, Kagome nodded and waited for her to continue. “I was once a priestess, much like yourself. In fact, I was the second priestess who’s life was touched by the Shikon jewel. The first of course, being Midoriko herself. The jewel was entrusted to me when I was very young. I spent my entire life as a devoted miko, and protector of the Shikon jewel. Many demons came after it, seeking the promise of undeserved power. Most of which died by my own hand. All except…” she paused and sighed slightly. “The final one.
I was twelve years of age when I took possession of the jewel. I went on to protect it for fifty-six years. My spiritual power had only become stronger with age, but my physical body weakened. One day a powerful demon came to me demanding that I surrender the jewel. I told him that I would sooner die than hand it over. And so he attacked, and a terrible battle was fought. In the end, I was able to destroy the demon, but not before taking on mortal injury myself.
In my final moments of life, I entrusted the jewel to my most powerful and devoted apprentice. I hated to leave her with such a burdensome responsibility, but it was all I could think to do. I trusted her to keep the jewel safe, when I no longer could.
When I awoke again, I found myself in this place. A short time later, the goddess Amaterasu, appeared before me. She told me that she and the other gods had watched over me during my life, and that they had been pleased with my dedication to protecting the jewel. She asked me if I wished to continue protecting it. I told her that I would do what ever It took to keep the jewel from the hands of evil.” she paused and for a moment, a serious look on her face. “The Shikon no tama in and of itself is benign. It is neither good, nor evil. In the wrong hands however, there is no limit to the damage that can be done. Had Naraku survived, things would have been dire indeed.
And so begun my task to find a miko who is both powerful, and pure of heart. Amaterasu-sama informed me that the jewel needed to be destroyed. She told me that from this place I could guide the jewel to a priestess who would finally rid the world of its presence and the danger that it posed.” she smiled brightly. “You, Kagome have succeeded where all others have failed. For centuries I have guided the jewel from one priestess to another, attempting to find the one who would be able to destroy it. Many priestesses died trying. Only you did so successfully.”
Kagome’s eyes widened in shock. “I-I died?!” she looked down to where the wound had been on her chest. “I died…” she said quietly.
Masuyo nodded sagely. “Yes, Kagome. You were dealt a fatal wound after you destroyed the jewel.” She then gestured to the shrine. “I created this shrine as a resting place for the miko who spent any portion of their lives protecting the jewel. I hated having to impose such a burdensome task onto so many women, but it was necessary. Many of the priestesses spent vast portions of their lives fighting to keep the jewel safe. The least I could offer them is peace in death.”
So many thoughts were going through Kagome’s mind. She had so many questions, but she hardly knew where to begin. “You brought me back through time didn’t you?” she asked already knowing the answer.
“It was necessary.” Masuyo told her. “As I said, had Naraku survived, it would have been calamitous. He was a very dangerous demon, and his plans went beyond the Shikon jewel.”
Kagome nodded her understanding. As she looked toward the shrine, something occurred to her. “So all of the priestesses who protected the Shikon jewel are in the shrine?” When Masuyo nodded she continued. “So does that mean that Midoriko is in there too? She should have been released from the jewel once it was destroyed, right?”
The elder miko smiled as if she had been expecting this question. “Yes. Midoriko is here. You cannot imagine how pleased I was to see her again.”
Kagome gasped lightly. “So you know her?!”
Masuyo nodded. “Quite well actually. You see, she is my sister.”
Kagome’s eyes widened. “Your sister?!”
The miko’s smile widened. “Yes. When we were alive, she told me of her plans to engage a terrible demon in battle. She said that if she did not return home within seven days, I was to come after her. When the allotted time had come and she had not returned, I went after her as instructed. That is when I discovered that she had been unable to defeat the demon. She used the last of her spiritual power to seal it, with her own soul. Essentially, her soul and that of the demons’ became the Shikon jewel. When I found her, her body had been turned to stone along with the demons‘. She had sealed their remains inside a cave. As her sister, I was able to pass through her barrier. When I saw the stone form that had been my sister, I immediately knew what she must have done. The jewel, the combination of her soul, and the demon’s had been expelled from her chest. I found it on the cave floor, and took possession of it. I have guarded and guided it ever since.
Kagome could hardly believe her ears. She remembered the story of the Shikon jewel, but now she was sitting here with Midoriko’s own sister! “Will I get to meet her?” she asked hopefully.
Masuyo sobered slightly, before looking toward the shrine. “I am afraid that will not be possible. My sister has been trapped inside of the jewel for a very long time. Her soul is very tired, and requires rest.”
Kagome nodded. “Maybe later then.” she said quietly, but Masuyo gave her an odd look.
“What about my friends?” the young miko asked suddenly. “What happened to them? Is Miroku going to be okay?”
The elder priestess smiled again. “I was just getting to that. Do you remember the wish you made before you died?” Kagome nodded, and Masuyo pressed on. “The sacred jewel was a very powerful thing. Even a single shard held the ability to strengthen a demon tenfold.” she paused and gave her a serious look. “Naraku’s evils were many. He ended, and destroyed the lives of human’s and demons alike. Your wish was pure, Kagome but such a wish cannot be fully granted. To undo all of Naraku’s evils would be to restore the lives of hundreds of demons and humans. The natural order of things would be disrupted.”
“He… he died didn’t he?” Kagome asked quietly, knowing where this conversation must have been leading.
The priestess nodded. He did.” she reached forward, and patted her hand comfortingly. “But do not despair. You have the power to change his fate.”
Kagome’s eyes widened. “What do you mean?”
“Your wish of course.” she said, ignoring the confused look the younger woman was giving her. “As I said, the wish that you made cannot be fully granted. However, the lives that were lost this day can be restored if you so wish it.”
“Yes! Of course! Why wouldn’t I want that?!”
Masuyo gave her a meaningful look. “Are you certain you know what you are wishing for? The wish will not encompass yourself, as it was made before you were injured. And if you recall, the monk was not the only one who died.”
“My soul will return to Kikyou’s body.” she said quietly. “I thought about that before I made the wish.” She looked down and began to play with the silky strands of grass beneath her. Many different thoughts passed through her mind. After a moment or two, she spoke up. “I knew that that was a possibility. I’ll admit that I don’t really want to return to Kikyou’s body, but I stand by my wish.”
The priestess smiled. “I thought you might say that.”
Kagome was somewhat confused by the woman’s cheerful expression, but refrained from saying anything.
“This is why your wish was a pure one Kagome. You made your wish knowing that there was no happy ending for you. You knew that your soul would either return to Kikyou’s body, or, you would be forced to return to your own time, and never return to see your friends again.” Her smile widened slightly, as she reached into the billowing sleeves of her haori. When she withdrew her right hand a large white orb rested in her palm.
Kagome looked at the orb curiously. It looked like something she had seen before. An unnatural glow surrounded the object, and the image of sad brown eyes wafted through her mind. It reminded her of the souls Kikyou‘s serpent demons used to collect. The only difference was that it was larger than any she had ever seen before. “What is that?” she asked finally.
“This… is Kikyou’s soul. You made your wish believing that you were her reincarnate, but you are not.”
Kagome gasped, and Masuyo could practically see the many questions in the young woman’s eyes.
“You must remember Kagome, that I have been guiding the Shikon jewel for centuries. When Kikyou died, her soul came here to my shrine,” she paused and smiled. “And the jewel returned with her. After her death, another priestess was born with the jewel in her body. You see, Kikyou was neither the first, nor the last priestess who thought to bring the jewel into the afterlife with them. It has returned to my possession many times, and many times I returned it to the land of the living.
For reasons I still do not know, I was only permitted to guide the jewel. I could not destroy it myself. And so, again and again I sent it back. That is why you were born with the Shikon jewel in your body.”
The younger woman frowned in confusion. “But then how was my soul able to animate Kikyou’s body?”
“It is simple. The two of you share many similarities. When she was alive, Kikyou’s heart was pure, much like your own. Additionally, the spiritual power the two of you possess had been very similar. The clay body which was created from Kikyou’s ashes could not differentiate between your soul, and the soul that had previously inhabited her original body. The fact that you and Kikyou share a similar physical appearance is completely coincidental.”
Kagome thought over the information she had just received. It seemed to make sense. All this time she had believed she was Kikyou’s reincarnate. It was actually a little strange to find out that she wasn’t. Then she remembered something else Masuyo had just said. “You said that our spiritual powers had been similar? I had always assumed that Kikyou was much more powerful than me.”
“Kikyou was never more powerful than you. She had trained her powers since childhood. The proficiency she displayed was a result of her training, not her natural ability. There is a distinct difference.” she sighed quietly. “However, you should know that your powers are no longer comparable to hers.”
Kagome frowned at this. “What do you mean?”
“You absorbed a great deal of power when you destroyed the jewel. As of this moment, your spiritual power surpasses even that of my sister.”
“Wow!” she said quietly. “It’s too bad I’m dead. I could probably have helped a lot of people if I’d survived.”
A knowing smile stretched across Masuyo’s lips. “Amaterasu-sama has entrusted me with the souls of all Shikon-miko, Kagome.” a small melodic chuckle escaped her lips. “I can send you back.”
Kagome’s eyes brightened. “You can?! Would you really do that?”
Masuyo nodded. “A short time ago, you told me that you would stand by the wish you made on the jewel. Do you still wish to do so? Think it over before you answer, for this is your final chance to renege.”
Kagome looked at the glowing orb the priestess was still holding. She knew what Masuyo was asking her. If she stood by her wish, she would be alive again, but so would Kikyou. She would return to the world of the living, but to do so would mean that she would very likely loose Inuyasha in the process. With Kikyou alive again, she knew she would stand little chance of winning the hanyou’s heart.
Masuyo watched the young woman as she mulled over her thoughts. After a few moments, Kagome looked up at her, resolve and a hint of resignation shining in her eyes. “I will stand by my wish.” she heard the girl say.
“I suspected that you would.” She then held her hand out, offering the orb to the younger woman. “Then I will entrust Kikyou’s soul to you. You do remember the promise you made to her?”
Kagome nodded as she accepted the shimmering globe.
The priestess noted the crestfallen look on the young woman’s face. “I know what this means for you Kagome. I know what you stand to loose by going back.” She stood and extended a hand to help the young priestess up. Kagome offered her free hand, and Masuyo helped pull her to her feet. The two women walked slowly until they came to the small slightly matted patch of grass that marked the spot where Kagome had first appeared. She turned back to Kagome and gestured to the spot.
Assuming the miko wished her to sit; Kagome seated herself in the grass. The moment she did, a powerful fatigue washed over her. She swayed unsteadily, but managed not to topple over. Masuyo kneeled next to her, and touched her cheek softly. “You know as well as I that not all demons are evil. Only a rare few priestesses are as open minded as yourself and Kikyou. Mikos and demons tend to consider themselves natural enemies. However, the rare few who can rise above the hate and prejudice are rewarded greatly. Remember that, Kagome.”
She didn’t really understand what the elder woman was talking about, but she gave her a sleepy nod. Masuyo placed a hand on the base of her neck, and helped her lie down.
The young miko fought to keep her eyes opened. As her vision began to fade, she saw the priestess’s kind face smiling down on her. “There are more trials ahead of you yet, Kagome, but you must trust your heart at all times. It will never mislead you.”
Kagome nodded again. “Thank you Masuyo-sama.” she said quietly as she closed her eyes. Soon a strange sensation washed over her. It almost felt as if she was floating in warm water, and for a moment everything was dark and quiet. She wasn’t quite sure when it happened, but the air around her suddenly changed. Suddenly it was no longer crisp and clean. She was certain she could smell traces of Naraku’s miasma, and scorched grass. She could hear a woman crying nearby, and she was suddenly having hard time breathing. She attempted to move, but was unable to do so. A powerful set of arms held her firmly in place, practically crushing her against an equally powerful chest. She opened her eyes, blinking several times to clear the fog from her vision.
When she was able to focus. She could see silver hair and a red fire rat haori near her face.”
“Stupid, stupid, stupid girl! I told you to stay out of it! I TOLD YOU! Why do you always have to be so reckless? Why?!” She heard the familiar voice near her right ear.
“Inuyasha?” she called quietly.
A small gasp reached her ears, and the silver-haired form pulled away to look at her. Watery golden eyes stared down on her in undisguised amazement.
“Kagome?!?”
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