InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Secret Lovers ❯ 8 ( Chapter 8 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
Bankotsu dishes out punishment to a traitor. We see Ban and Kag's thoughts as well.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 02.05.2009 | Updated On: 02.20.2009 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 372 | Status: Completed
Bankotsu dishes out punishment to a traitor. We see Ban and Kag's thoughts as well.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 02.05.2009 | Updated On: 02.20.2009 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 372 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I own nothing.
Thanks to jamied1968 for being my beta.
A/N The following is MY version of how things should have gone..
Last time:
Jakotsu said, “It feels like the barrier is dissipating,” before noticing Inuyasha lying on the cave floor. As Jakotsu moved toward Inuyasha, Inuyasha’s body began to pulse.
Inuyasha stood to his feet saying, “Miroku, Sango? I take it you’re safe. You must have succeeded in taking down the barrier.” Chuckling, “I came to rescue you, and you ended up rescuing me.”
Jakotsu surrounded Inuyasha with his sword and said, “Once I pull on this sword you’ll die. Bye-bye Inuyasha, I have to say, of all the men who have died by my sword, I like you the best!”
Now:
Standing up and breaking loose of Jakotsuo’s blades, Inuyasha yelled, “You fool! It’s a little too soon to gloat Jakotsu!” as he raised the mighty tetsuiga and using the Windscar; caused a mighty blast sending the multitude of blades all back at their owner.
Jakotsu gasped, and eyes wide froze in disbelief dreading the blades that were all hurling back directly at him. Knowing it was useless to try to dodge them, he stood tall and proud awaiting the impact.
As the blast hit him full force, embedding the blades in his body and shredding his kimono and the walls around him, Jakotsu sighed thinking, “So it comes at last? He was a better fighter than I thought.” Knocked down by the force of the attack, and buried in the rubble, he chuckled to himself.
Huffing from the excursion, Inuyasha declared, "It's over," as he turned to take his leave. At the sound of coughing, Inuyasha turned to look over his shoulder, asking, "Huh? You still not dead Jakotsu?"
Lying among the rubble, blood trickling down his lips, Jakotsu asked weakly, "Inuyasha, what are you waiting for? Just finish me..." before coughing once more. "I don't mind dying by your hand, Inuyasha," he continued before coughing up more blood.
The hanyou stared at him a moment in silence before picking up his sheath, as he replied, "No!" sheathing his blade, replacing it at his hip.
Mildly shocked, Jakotsu asked, "Are you sure about this? If you don't kill me now, I'll just come after you again. You should know by now how stubborn I can be," as he looked up at the roof of the cavern in resignation.
Looking back over his shoulder, Inuyasha said, “Fine then, I’ll just kill you when I see you next,” before running off down the corridor.
Jakotsu gave a pained sigh as his eyes glistened with pain induced tears, though he refused to let them fall.
Running further into the cave thinking,'This is Naraku’s scent, and it’s coming from the same direction as these demons. Naraku is in the core of this mountain.' Inuyasha picked up his speed, and continued to run deeper yet into the cave.
“Oh that Inuyasha, such a man of principals, so cute though,” Jakotsu said before groaning in pain, then chuckling. “I guess this is it then.” He fondly reminisced about his brief second life before saying, “What the heck? I did have a lot of fun.” closing his eyes he inhaled another pained breath, waiting for death to embrace him.
Renkotsu walked up to the seemingly unconscious cross dresser and stared at him. Sensing another’s presence, Jakotsu opened his eyes, and stared at the fire breather.
Renkotsu said, “Forgive me Jakotsu,” their eyes met and held a silent moment, before Jakotsu gave him a farewell smile, as if accepting his fate.
He leaned over, and pulled Jakotsu’s shard from his neck. Jakotsu’s grey eyes, stared at his comrade as his skin faded to dust, leaving nothing but bones, clothes, and one hair pin to indicate he’d even been lying there buried in the rubble with his blades around him.
Renkotsu watching his comrade turn to dust, said, “Though it is only one more, I still need your jewel shard Jakotsu.” Clasping the shard tightly in his palm, he finished in a positive voice, “I will use whatever means are necessary to insure that I stay alive.” Turning his back to his deceased comrade, he calmly, as if nothing had happened, walked away. Unknown to Renkotsu, a solitary Saimyosho had watched everything unfold. It flew down to the remains of the ex-Schichinatai soldier, and collected the hair pin, flying out of the cave, with its prize firmly in its grasp.
Meanwhile with Bankotsu:
He was sitting against the boulder, thinking about Kagome and how she’d escaped him. 'Why would she run from me again?' wincing as he remembered how much trouble she’d had walking after their last romp, he sighed. 'It’s not like I forced myself on her. Every time she wanted it just as bad as I did,' he defended himself.
Scowling he added bitterly, “She obviously walked well enough to sneak off.” Sighing he stared out at the trees. 'I will get her back! Just as soon as I kill that damn dog!' he silently vowed to himself, fists clenched.
Smirking he thought, 'I may make her my wife…' he sat there waiting for some word or for his brothers to return and pondering the idea of his raven haired beauty becoming his wife. The more he considered it, the more he became determined to fulfill it. 'Yup, my wife. I’ll just have to keep her delicate ass locked up safe in a castle, where I know she won’t be harmed!' grinning as his mind was made up, he scowled huffing, “Now I just have to kill the mutt, and find her.”
Tapping his foot impatiently, he sat against the rock waiting bored for one of his brothers to show up. To occupy his time, he sat there thinking of what his life would be like with Kagome as his wife. 'I might even be… happy.'
With Kikyo:
She was walking, her soul collectors flying above her, keeping their mistress in sight. She thought, 'Its close, whatever it was that escaped mount Hakurei.' She silently gasped as something came into her sight, the figure of a mummified man.
Stopping for a moment, she thought confused, 'Huh, a barrier? And it’s a pure barrier, the same kind that surrounds Mount Hakurei.'
Standing five feet away, she thought, 'So then, is this the person who created the barrier?' she gasped as a breeze passed her and activity from the mountain startled her. 'Huh? Demonic aura is seeping out of the broken barrier, and it’s Naraku’s demonic energy.'
She continued to walk over to the mummy, stopping to kneel a foot away. Staring straight at him she said, “You seem to be one who was most virtuous during his lifetime.”
Hakushin said, “First a monk, now a priestess. So, do you also peruse Naraku?”
Kikyo said, “Tell me, did Naraku hide himself deep inside the barrier you created?” as she stared at the withered old monk.
Hakushin said, “Your gaze is intense priestess, are you attempting to look deep into my heart?” ending in a wry tone.
Kikyo replied, “I do not even have to try. Your heart is plain for me to see." Hakushin’s eyes widened as he recounted why he’d joined with Naraku.
He asked, “Do you scorn me? I, a saint who saved people and forgave their sins became the one who was lost and died suffering. Then Naraku, a demon, came to me and saved my soul.”
Kikyo asked, “Your soul was saved?” bowing her head she thought, “If so, then what is this sadness, this great sadness that permeates the barrier?”
Hakushin said, “I was not truly a saint. While on the brink of death, I came to that realization.”
Kikyo thought, 'And at that moment, his soul became lost. Then Naraku came to the soul, which was lost in darkness and gave it purpose. But hating people, and protecting the evil demon Naraku, was that really what your heart desired?'
Kikyo informed him, “Your soul will not find salvation by keeping this tainted barrier around you at the behest of Naraku,” then asked, “Is there truly anyone in this world, who has not doubted, or has never sinned at all?”
Hakushin replied, “The people all revered me as a saint, so I was resolved to be one.”
Kikyo admitted, “I was like you, when I was alive. I tried to live without doubt, without mistakes.”
Hakushin said, “Ah, so I was right, you too are dead.”
Kikyo bowed her head respectfully and said, “It is true, and that is why I can understand the pain, that you are feeling.” Raising her brown eyes to his yellow ones, she added, “To doubt is to be human. Humans try to be divine, to be free of doubt.”
Hakushin admitted sadly, “I could not become a living Buddha. My attachment to corporeal life sent my soul to hell.”
Kikyo said, “Do not be ashamed that you yearned for life. It is no cause for damnation. And so I asked that you please dissolve this barrier.”
Hakushin questioned, “Why do you ask this of me?”
Kikyo holding his gaze said, “Because I hope that you will, allow me to touch your soul.”
Hakushin said, “And then you wish to lay me rest, you who are a dead priestess?” Kikyo and the mummy held each other’s gazes, unwaveringly for a long moment, as the wind ruffled her hair.
With Inuyasha:
He was still running deeper into the mountain, as strange vibrations shook the cave. He thought confused, 'What are these vibrations? They’re almost like… heartbeats.' as he stopped. Sniffing he thought, 'Huh? With each pulse, Naraku’s scent becomes stronger. You’re here, aren’t you Naraku?' His hand grasped the hilt of his sword, and he yanked it out fully transforming it, as he thought, 'I’ve finally found you!'
With Renkotsu:
He too felt the disturbance and asked, “Does this mean Naraku is starting to move?” pulling out his prized shard to stare at it, he thought, 'Jakotsu’s jewel shard. Shall I use it? Whether I run away, or stay to fight,' as he placed the clear shard into his neck, he finished thinking, 'I intend to survive!'
With Kagome:
She was staring at the mountain, as she cradled Shippo in her arms, and thought, 'There’s something strange about Mount Hakurei. The barrier is becoming unstable. Could something have happened to Inuyasha, and the others?'
Koga noticed her worried look and asked, “What is it Kagome?”
She replied, “It’s nothing.”
Koga said, “Listen Kagome, if there’s anything I can do, than please tell me.”
Hakaku whispered excitedly, “Koga’s finally making his move!”
Ginta chuckled, “Oh boy I’ve really gotta see this,” as they watched from behind a rock.
Hakaku and Ginta said in hushed tones, “Inuyasha’s inside the barrier and Kagome’s all alone. Not quite sporting, but if he’s gonna woo her, now’s the perfect time. Go for it Koga,” as they both eagerly watched their leader making a move toward the woman he wanted.
Kagome staring at him said slightly nervous, “Well then.”
Koga blushed staring into her porcelain face and said nervously, “Kagome,”
Kagome placed her sleeping charges into his arms and said, “Please take care of Shippo and Kirara? Something’s wrong, I have to go check out the barrier,” and ran off without waiting for a reply.
Koga shocked, stared at his two charges and yelled, “Hey Kagome, wait a second!” but she was already gone. Sighing he left the smaller demons with his right and left hand man who were now crying, instructing, “Stop blubbering, and watch these two, I’m going after her.” They perked up and nodded. Koga ran off in the direction of his heart’s desire.
With Bankotsu:
He was sitting on the rock thinking about what he and his raven haired beauty would do after Inuyasha was dead, when he heard a buzzing noise. He looked up wide eyed at the lone messenger and held out his hand, accepting the hair pin, as the insect relayed the news of Renkotsu’s betrayal to him. His fist clenched around the memento as he said, “I see,” in a voice devoid of emotion. His face fell as he thought annoyed, 'So much for happy times.' He stared off into space with emotionless eyes, his hand clasped around Jakotsu’s prized hairpin.
With Kagome:
She ran toward the barrier saying, “Please be safe everyone.” While her mind thought, 'Bankotsu… please let me see him alive again.' Her heart beat against her chest in fear at the thought of never getting to see him again. She ran faster.
With Inuyasha:
He was destroying demons and ordered, “Get out of my way!” as he hacked through another wave of demons, he added, “You too!”
With Renkotsu:
He saw the daylight as he neared the cave exit thinking, 'There’s the exit, now to just make it away from the mountain, and I’ll be home free.' As he exited the cave, he gasped and stopped abruptly, as his eyes landed on the relaxed figure of his leader, thinking, 'Bankotsu…'
As if hearing his name, Bankotsu turned his head to look over his shoulder and said, “Oh, so you’re still alive Renkotsu?” before turning to stare back at nothing with emotionless eyes, his face masked into a strange nothingness.
Renkotsu answered, “Yes,” as he moved to approach his leader thinking, 'Damn that Bankotsu! He has the shards from Kyokotsu, Mukotsu, and Suikotsu, that makes four in all. The shards I took from Kagome, are embedded in his halberd Banryu. I have three shards, with the ones from Ginkotsu, and Jakotsu. If I can keep Bankotsu from using his halberd, we’ll be just about even.' Stopping beside his leader’s sitting figure, he thought, 'If I’m going to do it, it has to be now!' giving himself a pep talk.
Before he could even act, Bankotsu moved his arm, driving his first two fingers straight into the fire breather’s neck. His eyes were still emotionless, as he dug around, drawing out the shards. He pulled them to his face and said, “That’s two, so…” tightening his hands around the shards, he turned back to see a stunned Renkotsu, staring at him wide eyed and said, “Right, right,” standing to face his second in command he finished, “You still have one more, don’t you?” in a somewhat amused voice.
Hand going to his bleeding throat, Renkotsu yelled, “Damn you!”
Bankotsu smirked, before responding in a smart-assed manner, “You know, for a smart guy you sure can be stupid. You were always plotting and planning, but you waited too long to act.”
Still holding his neck, Renkotsu demanded, “Will you kill me?”
Holding up Jakotsu’s hairpin, Bankotsu asked amused, “Well, what should I do?” turning serious, he stared at the fire breather adding in a serious tone, “After all, you killed Jakotsu for his sacred jewel shard.” His blue eyes hardening like ice, as they stared at the soon to be dead traitor.
Renkotsu yelled, “Who the hell are you to talk!? In the end, all that counts is power, and the more shards you have, the stronger you become.” The Saimyosho flew up knowing what was about to happen. Bankotsu smirked amused. The fire breather demanded, “What’s so damn funny about that? Don’t forget you have sacred jewel shards inside your body too, big brother; and you used us to get them for you,” his fist clenching at his side, while his other hand gripped his shoulder cannon in anger.
Calmly holding up the two jewel shards, Bankotsu said, “Let’s put your theory to the test.”
Renkotsu demanded shocked, “What’d you mean?”
Calmly tossing him the shards, Bankotsu said, “Here,” Gasping as he caught the shards Renkotsu stared at his leader puzzled. Bankotsu said firmly, “Take them. What’s the problem?”
Renkotsu now shaking glanced fearfully at Banryu. Bankotsu followed his gaze saying, “Hm?” his eyes landed on his prized companion. He turned back to the traitor and mocked, “Aw don’t worry, I won’t even use Banryu.”
Knowing his number was up, and needing the strength, Renkotsu placed the shards back into his neck. Bankotsu stared at him informing, ”Now I will demonstrate, just how different you and I actually are.”
Renkotsu stepped back unconsciously. Bankotsu, in his fighting stance, with both fists clenched at his sides, said, “Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s do it. If you won’t attack, then I’ll come at you first!” as he began running toward the frightened man.
Screaming in fear, Renkotsu pulled up and aimed his cannon. Bankotsu smirked as he jumped into the air, to doges the cannon ball, landing on his feet with a huff. Renkotsu now truly scared, yelled, “AH, die!” as he aimed and fired the cannon repeatedly. Bankotsu dodged each of the blasts landing right in front of him, and shoving the cannon down with a serious gaze.
He asked, “What’s the matter Renkotsu? Your aim’s not so good,” as he gazed at the terrified man before him. Renkotsu gasping in fear stepped back several paces, as he leader stood unafraid in front of him. Renkotsu’s lost his footing, and dropped his cannon as he fell on his butt.
Bankotsu scoffed, “Now what? Your balance isn’t so good either?” Eyes and voice cold, the mercenary leader ordered, “Get on your feet, so that I can kill you.”
Knowing he only had one shot at survival left, Renkotsu jumped back, landing several feet away from the cocky teen, yelling, "Damn it!” he took a gulp from his gourd and spit flames out like a blow torch, heading at the leader, and burning everything in between them. Bankotsu growled as he stared at the filthy traitor through the wall of flames.
Feeling good and cocky, Renkotsu lowered his gourd saying relieved, “Ha! I think I got him.”
Bankotsu, standing behind the wall of flames said angrily, “Oh yeah? Well, think again!” as he threw the hairpin toward the man he now despised.. Renkotsu released a painful scream, as the ornament buried itself into his flesh, knocking the jewel shard that had been there, to the earth below; as well as the man to his butt again. Behind the flames, Bankotsu stared in satisfaction, as his aim proved true. He calmly walked through the flames and slowly approached his opponent, who was how holding his injured shoulder.
Stopping a foot away, Bankotsu stared at the betrayer in silence. Renkotsu, unable to stand it anymore, cried out, “What is it, tell me?” as he groaned in pain before finishing, “How is what I’ve done, any different than what you are doing now?”
Bankotsu closed the gap, driving the same two finger’s into the worm’s throat and pulled out the shards, watching the body crumble to dust. He held up the shards, staring at the bones, and said calmly, “The difference is, I would never betray my friends,” his fist closing on the shards as he scowled at his second in command disgustedly.
As the flames died away, he sighed, “How sad, it seems now, that I’m the only one left.” The Saimyosho flew down, picking up the shard, and delivered it to Bankotsu. He said, “I know, I’ve got things to finish,” as he accepted the shard.
The bug flew off, and he calmly walked over to his sword, placing his newest shards, into both of his wrists. He walked over to the rock, and placed one foot on the rock, as his hand went around the hilt of his companion. With one arm, he tugged his halberd free from the earth’s grasp, using his foot for leverage, and then placed it to rest upon his shoulder. He stood in silence a moment, thinking about his fallen comrades, and how he’d failed to protect Jakotsu.
Turning to face the mountain he said in a voice filled with determination, “This will be the final battle for the band of seven,” adding mentally, 'I’m coming for you half breed, so prepare to die,' as he stoically walked toward the mountain, with a stern face.
Back with Kikyo:
After deliberating, Hakushin lowered his barrier, while Kikyo’s brown eyes stared at him. He said, “There, I’ve dissolved the barrier, as you’ve asked of me priestess. You said, you wanted to lay me to rest, and dissolve the barrier around Mount Hakurei, did you not?” adding in a sad tone, “However, I was buried alive, and now my soul is filled with anger and hatred. I fear that it cannot be saved.”
Kikyo said in a harsh tone, “You are wrong, I never said that I have the ability to save your soul from the darkness.” Hakushin gasped. Kikyo continued in a softer tone, “But I do want you to tell me, what is it that makes you so unbearably sad?”
Hakushin looked at her asking, “Sad you say?” his voice slightly trembling. Kikyo laid down her bow and moved to embrace him, holding his head against her chest, next to her heart. He sighed, almost fearfully. She said softly, “Even though I touch your very soul, I cannot feel the hatred, and bitterness you speak of.”
Her grip tightened on his shoulders, as she held him closer. His eyes widened as Naraku’s words entered his mind. He cried, “But I…”
Kikyo said calmly, “The tears you shed were not of hatred towards humans and their world.”
He admitted, “Yes, you’re right. I wanted to die an admirable death, as a saint, but it was not to be. I did not want to admit, my own weakness.” self loathing entering his voice at the last part. So I cried in despair, over the weakness of my own heart.”
Kikyo soothed, “How painful it must have been.”
He relied tearfully, “Yes… it was painful.”
Kikyo continued, “You have done more than enough good in this world. So please, let your soul become free.”
He asked, “Is that alright?” unsure anymore.
Kikyo answered, “Yes, it’s alright.”
The mummified priest sighed in relief as his eyes closed. His soul, now freed from the binds of confusion, shone brightly and floated into the air. Kikyo watched the soul, float into the clouds and disappear. Her hand went into her haori, and pulled out a lock of hair. Staring at it, she thought, “There is not one person in this world, who never feels lost, who has never sinned in life.
Standing to her feet, she thought, 'Those who try to be forever divine, those who try to be forever kind, and even those, who are tainted by evil- everyone, wishes to be saved,' she lifted the lock of hair toward the sky. The soul lifted into the sky and disappeared as well. She finished out loud, “Isn’t that right, Konsuke?” as the soul disappeared, she smiled saying, “He has found peace.”
The mountain began to tremble violently as the barrier fell, causing the mountain to take on a hideous appearance, as all life around the once pristine mountain, withered and died. Kikyo gasped, “The barrier, it’s been dissolved?” as she watched numerous smaller demons fleeing frantically from the cave, in every opening.
With Kagome:
She too, noticed the change. Her eyes widened in fear as she saw the multitude of demons fleeing.. “Oh no! Thousands of demons are swarming out of Mount Hakurei,” she stared in horror at the mountain’s hideous appearance, and the demons.
Her eyes widened in shock as she realized a few of the demons, had made a beeline straight for her.” She reached back, trying to grasp and notch her arrow, while shaking in fear. Unfortunately, she’d lost her grip on the arrow and had to make a mad dash for the ground, as a demon flew over her, circling back around, and diving for her again..
She clutched the ground frightened, expecting the demon to devour her any minute. “I’m sorry Mama, Souta, and Grandpa, I’m so sorry.” She said as she sobbed. She though regretfully, 'Bankotsu, I’m so sorry that I never got the chance to tell you, that I love you…' her heart braking as she realized she’d never see any of her loved ones or friends again.
Just when she thought she was a gonner for sure, Koga showed up and growled, lunging claws first at the demon; shredding it into pieces, that fell harmlessly on the ground around the frightened woman. She looked up and sat up and then gasped excitedly, “Koga!” as she saw him land on the ground, with one knee bent.
He replied firmly, “If anything were to happen to you, that good for nothing mutt, would never hear the end of it,” ending with a cocky smirk as he glanced at her. Standing to his feet, in front of her protectively, he challenged, “Alright, come on!” as the demons made their way back toward them again.
With Inuyasha:
He was still running deeper and faster into the cave. He yelled angrily, “Come on out and show yourself Naraku!” gripping the handle of his sword tightly. He jumped back as he heard the noise of something cutting through the rock around him. A bright blue light illuminated the cave, as it continued to slice through the wall in front of where Inuyasha had seconds ago been standing.
Inuyasha’s eyes went wide as the dust settled revealing non-other than Bankotsu himself. Bankotsu informed him smugly, “Inuyasha, you won’t actually be meeting Naraku,” placing his halberd behind his neck. Smirking at Inuyasha’s growl of frustration, he finished, “cause you and I have a score to settle.” He smirked down at the mutt thinking, 'And this time, you won’t get away.'
A/N Here is the 8th chapter of Secret Lovers. Enjoy please. :D
Thanks to jamied1968 for being my beta.
A/N The following is MY version of how things should have gone..
Last time:
Jakotsu said, “It feels like the barrier is dissipating,” before noticing Inuyasha lying on the cave floor. As Jakotsu moved toward Inuyasha, Inuyasha’s body began to pulse.
Inuyasha stood to his feet saying, “Miroku, Sango? I take it you’re safe. You must have succeeded in taking down the barrier.” Chuckling, “I came to rescue you, and you ended up rescuing me.”
Jakotsu surrounded Inuyasha with his sword and said, “Once I pull on this sword you’ll die. Bye-bye Inuyasha, I have to say, of all the men who have died by my sword, I like you the best!”
Now:
Standing up and breaking loose of Jakotsuo’s blades, Inuyasha yelled, “You fool! It’s a little too soon to gloat Jakotsu!” as he raised the mighty tetsuiga and using the Windscar; caused a mighty blast sending the multitude of blades all back at their owner.
Jakotsu gasped, and eyes wide froze in disbelief dreading the blades that were all hurling back directly at him. Knowing it was useless to try to dodge them, he stood tall and proud awaiting the impact.
As the blast hit him full force, embedding the blades in his body and shredding his kimono and the walls around him, Jakotsu sighed thinking, “So it comes at last? He was a better fighter than I thought.” Knocked down by the force of the attack, and buried in the rubble, he chuckled to himself.
Huffing from the excursion, Inuyasha declared, "It's over," as he turned to take his leave. At the sound of coughing, Inuyasha turned to look over his shoulder, asking, "Huh? You still not dead Jakotsu?"
Lying among the rubble, blood trickling down his lips, Jakotsu asked weakly, "Inuyasha, what are you waiting for? Just finish me..." before coughing once more. "I don't mind dying by your hand, Inuyasha," he continued before coughing up more blood.
The hanyou stared at him a moment in silence before picking up his sheath, as he replied, "No!" sheathing his blade, replacing it at his hip.
Mildly shocked, Jakotsu asked, "Are you sure about this? If you don't kill me now, I'll just come after you again. You should know by now how stubborn I can be," as he looked up at the roof of the cavern in resignation.
Looking back over his shoulder, Inuyasha said, “Fine then, I’ll just kill you when I see you next,” before running off down the corridor.
Jakotsu gave a pained sigh as his eyes glistened with pain induced tears, though he refused to let them fall.
Running further into the cave thinking,'This is Naraku’s scent, and it’s coming from the same direction as these demons. Naraku is in the core of this mountain.' Inuyasha picked up his speed, and continued to run deeper yet into the cave.
“Oh that Inuyasha, such a man of principals, so cute though,” Jakotsu said before groaning in pain, then chuckling. “I guess this is it then.” He fondly reminisced about his brief second life before saying, “What the heck? I did have a lot of fun.” closing his eyes he inhaled another pained breath, waiting for death to embrace him.
Renkotsu walked up to the seemingly unconscious cross dresser and stared at him. Sensing another’s presence, Jakotsu opened his eyes, and stared at the fire breather.
Renkotsu said, “Forgive me Jakotsu,” their eyes met and held a silent moment, before Jakotsu gave him a farewell smile, as if accepting his fate.
He leaned over, and pulled Jakotsu’s shard from his neck. Jakotsu’s grey eyes, stared at his comrade as his skin faded to dust, leaving nothing but bones, clothes, and one hair pin to indicate he’d even been lying there buried in the rubble with his blades around him.
Renkotsu watching his comrade turn to dust, said, “Though it is only one more, I still need your jewel shard Jakotsu.” Clasping the shard tightly in his palm, he finished in a positive voice, “I will use whatever means are necessary to insure that I stay alive.” Turning his back to his deceased comrade, he calmly, as if nothing had happened, walked away. Unknown to Renkotsu, a solitary Saimyosho had watched everything unfold. It flew down to the remains of the ex-Schichinatai soldier, and collected the hair pin, flying out of the cave, with its prize firmly in its grasp.
Meanwhile with Bankotsu:
He was sitting against the boulder, thinking about Kagome and how she’d escaped him. 'Why would she run from me again?' wincing as he remembered how much trouble she’d had walking after their last romp, he sighed. 'It’s not like I forced myself on her. Every time she wanted it just as bad as I did,' he defended himself.
Scowling he added bitterly, “She obviously walked well enough to sneak off.” Sighing he stared out at the trees. 'I will get her back! Just as soon as I kill that damn dog!' he silently vowed to himself, fists clenched.
Smirking he thought, 'I may make her my wife…' he sat there waiting for some word or for his brothers to return and pondering the idea of his raven haired beauty becoming his wife. The more he considered it, the more he became determined to fulfill it. 'Yup, my wife. I’ll just have to keep her delicate ass locked up safe in a castle, where I know she won’t be harmed!' grinning as his mind was made up, he scowled huffing, “Now I just have to kill the mutt, and find her.”
Tapping his foot impatiently, he sat against the rock waiting bored for one of his brothers to show up. To occupy his time, he sat there thinking of what his life would be like with Kagome as his wife. 'I might even be… happy.'
With Kikyo:
She was walking, her soul collectors flying above her, keeping their mistress in sight. She thought, 'Its close, whatever it was that escaped mount Hakurei.' She silently gasped as something came into her sight, the figure of a mummified man.
Stopping for a moment, she thought confused, 'Huh, a barrier? And it’s a pure barrier, the same kind that surrounds Mount Hakurei.'
Standing five feet away, she thought, 'So then, is this the person who created the barrier?' she gasped as a breeze passed her and activity from the mountain startled her. 'Huh? Demonic aura is seeping out of the broken barrier, and it’s Naraku’s demonic energy.'
She continued to walk over to the mummy, stopping to kneel a foot away. Staring straight at him she said, “You seem to be one who was most virtuous during his lifetime.”
Hakushin said, “First a monk, now a priestess. So, do you also peruse Naraku?”
Kikyo said, “Tell me, did Naraku hide himself deep inside the barrier you created?” as she stared at the withered old monk.
Hakushin said, “Your gaze is intense priestess, are you attempting to look deep into my heart?” ending in a wry tone.
Kikyo replied, “I do not even have to try. Your heart is plain for me to see." Hakushin’s eyes widened as he recounted why he’d joined with Naraku.
He asked, “Do you scorn me? I, a saint who saved people and forgave their sins became the one who was lost and died suffering. Then Naraku, a demon, came to me and saved my soul.”
Kikyo asked, “Your soul was saved?” bowing her head she thought, “If so, then what is this sadness, this great sadness that permeates the barrier?”
Hakushin said, “I was not truly a saint. While on the brink of death, I came to that realization.”
Kikyo thought, 'And at that moment, his soul became lost. Then Naraku came to the soul, which was lost in darkness and gave it purpose. But hating people, and protecting the evil demon Naraku, was that really what your heart desired?'
Kikyo informed him, “Your soul will not find salvation by keeping this tainted barrier around you at the behest of Naraku,” then asked, “Is there truly anyone in this world, who has not doubted, or has never sinned at all?”
Hakushin replied, “The people all revered me as a saint, so I was resolved to be one.”
Kikyo admitted, “I was like you, when I was alive. I tried to live without doubt, without mistakes.”
Hakushin said, “Ah, so I was right, you too are dead.”
Kikyo bowed her head respectfully and said, “It is true, and that is why I can understand the pain, that you are feeling.” Raising her brown eyes to his yellow ones, she added, “To doubt is to be human. Humans try to be divine, to be free of doubt.”
Hakushin admitted sadly, “I could not become a living Buddha. My attachment to corporeal life sent my soul to hell.”
Kikyo said, “Do not be ashamed that you yearned for life. It is no cause for damnation. And so I asked that you please dissolve this barrier.”
Hakushin questioned, “Why do you ask this of me?”
Kikyo holding his gaze said, “Because I hope that you will, allow me to touch your soul.”
Hakushin said, “And then you wish to lay me rest, you who are a dead priestess?” Kikyo and the mummy held each other’s gazes, unwaveringly for a long moment, as the wind ruffled her hair.
With Inuyasha:
He was still running deeper into the mountain, as strange vibrations shook the cave. He thought confused, 'What are these vibrations? They’re almost like… heartbeats.' as he stopped. Sniffing he thought, 'Huh? With each pulse, Naraku’s scent becomes stronger. You’re here, aren’t you Naraku?' His hand grasped the hilt of his sword, and he yanked it out fully transforming it, as he thought, 'I’ve finally found you!'
With Renkotsu:
He too felt the disturbance and asked, “Does this mean Naraku is starting to move?” pulling out his prized shard to stare at it, he thought, 'Jakotsu’s jewel shard. Shall I use it? Whether I run away, or stay to fight,' as he placed the clear shard into his neck, he finished thinking, 'I intend to survive!'
With Kagome:
She was staring at the mountain, as she cradled Shippo in her arms, and thought, 'There’s something strange about Mount Hakurei. The barrier is becoming unstable. Could something have happened to Inuyasha, and the others?'
Koga noticed her worried look and asked, “What is it Kagome?”
She replied, “It’s nothing.”
Koga said, “Listen Kagome, if there’s anything I can do, than please tell me.”
Hakaku whispered excitedly, “Koga’s finally making his move!”
Ginta chuckled, “Oh boy I’ve really gotta see this,” as they watched from behind a rock.
Hakaku and Ginta said in hushed tones, “Inuyasha’s inside the barrier and Kagome’s all alone. Not quite sporting, but if he’s gonna woo her, now’s the perfect time. Go for it Koga,” as they both eagerly watched their leader making a move toward the woman he wanted.
Kagome staring at him said slightly nervous, “Well then.”
Koga blushed staring into her porcelain face and said nervously, “Kagome,”
Kagome placed her sleeping charges into his arms and said, “Please take care of Shippo and Kirara? Something’s wrong, I have to go check out the barrier,” and ran off without waiting for a reply.
Koga shocked, stared at his two charges and yelled, “Hey Kagome, wait a second!” but she was already gone. Sighing he left the smaller demons with his right and left hand man who were now crying, instructing, “Stop blubbering, and watch these two, I’m going after her.” They perked up and nodded. Koga ran off in the direction of his heart’s desire.
With Bankotsu:
He was sitting on the rock thinking about what he and his raven haired beauty would do after Inuyasha was dead, when he heard a buzzing noise. He looked up wide eyed at the lone messenger and held out his hand, accepting the hair pin, as the insect relayed the news of Renkotsu’s betrayal to him. His fist clenched around the memento as he said, “I see,” in a voice devoid of emotion. His face fell as he thought annoyed, 'So much for happy times.' He stared off into space with emotionless eyes, his hand clasped around Jakotsu’s prized hairpin.
With Kagome:
She ran toward the barrier saying, “Please be safe everyone.” While her mind thought, 'Bankotsu… please let me see him alive again.' Her heart beat against her chest in fear at the thought of never getting to see him again. She ran faster.
With Inuyasha:
He was destroying demons and ordered, “Get out of my way!” as he hacked through another wave of demons, he added, “You too!”
With Renkotsu:
He saw the daylight as he neared the cave exit thinking, 'There’s the exit, now to just make it away from the mountain, and I’ll be home free.' As he exited the cave, he gasped and stopped abruptly, as his eyes landed on the relaxed figure of his leader, thinking, 'Bankotsu…'
As if hearing his name, Bankotsu turned his head to look over his shoulder and said, “Oh, so you’re still alive Renkotsu?” before turning to stare back at nothing with emotionless eyes, his face masked into a strange nothingness.
Renkotsu answered, “Yes,” as he moved to approach his leader thinking, 'Damn that Bankotsu! He has the shards from Kyokotsu, Mukotsu, and Suikotsu, that makes four in all. The shards I took from Kagome, are embedded in his halberd Banryu. I have three shards, with the ones from Ginkotsu, and Jakotsu. If I can keep Bankotsu from using his halberd, we’ll be just about even.' Stopping beside his leader’s sitting figure, he thought, 'If I’m going to do it, it has to be now!' giving himself a pep talk.
Before he could even act, Bankotsu moved his arm, driving his first two fingers straight into the fire breather’s neck. His eyes were still emotionless, as he dug around, drawing out the shards. He pulled them to his face and said, “That’s two, so…” tightening his hands around the shards, he turned back to see a stunned Renkotsu, staring at him wide eyed and said, “Right, right,” standing to face his second in command he finished, “You still have one more, don’t you?” in a somewhat amused voice.
Hand going to his bleeding throat, Renkotsu yelled, “Damn you!”
Bankotsu smirked, before responding in a smart-assed manner, “You know, for a smart guy you sure can be stupid. You were always plotting and planning, but you waited too long to act.”
Still holding his neck, Renkotsu demanded, “Will you kill me?”
Holding up Jakotsu’s hairpin, Bankotsu asked amused, “Well, what should I do?” turning serious, he stared at the fire breather adding in a serious tone, “After all, you killed Jakotsu for his sacred jewel shard.” His blue eyes hardening like ice, as they stared at the soon to be dead traitor.
Renkotsu yelled, “Who the hell are you to talk!? In the end, all that counts is power, and the more shards you have, the stronger you become.” The Saimyosho flew up knowing what was about to happen. Bankotsu smirked amused. The fire breather demanded, “What’s so damn funny about that? Don’t forget you have sacred jewel shards inside your body too, big brother; and you used us to get them for you,” his fist clenching at his side, while his other hand gripped his shoulder cannon in anger.
Calmly holding up the two jewel shards, Bankotsu said, “Let’s put your theory to the test.”
Renkotsu demanded shocked, “What’d you mean?”
Calmly tossing him the shards, Bankotsu said, “Here,” Gasping as he caught the shards Renkotsu stared at his leader puzzled. Bankotsu said firmly, “Take them. What’s the problem?”
Renkotsu now shaking glanced fearfully at Banryu. Bankotsu followed his gaze saying, “Hm?” his eyes landed on his prized companion. He turned back to the traitor and mocked, “Aw don’t worry, I won’t even use Banryu.”
Knowing his number was up, and needing the strength, Renkotsu placed the shards back into his neck. Bankotsu stared at him informing, ”Now I will demonstrate, just how different you and I actually are.”
Renkotsu stepped back unconsciously. Bankotsu, in his fighting stance, with both fists clenched at his sides, said, “Well, what are you waiting for? Let’s do it. If you won’t attack, then I’ll come at you first!” as he began running toward the frightened man.
Screaming in fear, Renkotsu pulled up and aimed his cannon. Bankotsu smirked as he jumped into the air, to doges the cannon ball, landing on his feet with a huff. Renkotsu now truly scared, yelled, “AH, die!” as he aimed and fired the cannon repeatedly. Bankotsu dodged each of the blasts landing right in front of him, and shoving the cannon down with a serious gaze.
He asked, “What’s the matter Renkotsu? Your aim’s not so good,” as he gazed at the terrified man before him. Renkotsu gasping in fear stepped back several paces, as he leader stood unafraid in front of him. Renkotsu’s lost his footing, and dropped his cannon as he fell on his butt.
Bankotsu scoffed, “Now what? Your balance isn’t so good either?” Eyes and voice cold, the mercenary leader ordered, “Get on your feet, so that I can kill you.”
Knowing he only had one shot at survival left, Renkotsu jumped back, landing several feet away from the cocky teen, yelling, "Damn it!” he took a gulp from his gourd and spit flames out like a blow torch, heading at the leader, and burning everything in between them. Bankotsu growled as he stared at the filthy traitor through the wall of flames.
Feeling good and cocky, Renkotsu lowered his gourd saying relieved, “Ha! I think I got him.”
Bankotsu, standing behind the wall of flames said angrily, “Oh yeah? Well, think again!” as he threw the hairpin toward the man he now despised.. Renkotsu released a painful scream, as the ornament buried itself into his flesh, knocking the jewel shard that had been there, to the earth below; as well as the man to his butt again. Behind the flames, Bankotsu stared in satisfaction, as his aim proved true. He calmly walked through the flames and slowly approached his opponent, who was how holding his injured shoulder.
Stopping a foot away, Bankotsu stared at the betrayer in silence. Renkotsu, unable to stand it anymore, cried out, “What is it, tell me?” as he groaned in pain before finishing, “How is what I’ve done, any different than what you are doing now?”
Bankotsu closed the gap, driving the same two finger’s into the worm’s throat and pulled out the shards, watching the body crumble to dust. He held up the shards, staring at the bones, and said calmly, “The difference is, I would never betray my friends,” his fist closing on the shards as he scowled at his second in command disgustedly.
As the flames died away, he sighed, “How sad, it seems now, that I’m the only one left.” The Saimyosho flew down, picking up the shard, and delivered it to Bankotsu. He said, “I know, I’ve got things to finish,” as he accepted the shard.
The bug flew off, and he calmly walked over to his sword, placing his newest shards, into both of his wrists. He walked over to the rock, and placed one foot on the rock, as his hand went around the hilt of his companion. With one arm, he tugged his halberd free from the earth’s grasp, using his foot for leverage, and then placed it to rest upon his shoulder. He stood in silence a moment, thinking about his fallen comrades, and how he’d failed to protect Jakotsu.
Turning to face the mountain he said in a voice filled with determination, “This will be the final battle for the band of seven,” adding mentally, 'I’m coming for you half breed, so prepare to die,' as he stoically walked toward the mountain, with a stern face.
Back with Kikyo:
After deliberating, Hakushin lowered his barrier, while Kikyo’s brown eyes stared at him. He said, “There, I’ve dissolved the barrier, as you’ve asked of me priestess. You said, you wanted to lay me to rest, and dissolve the barrier around Mount Hakurei, did you not?” adding in a sad tone, “However, I was buried alive, and now my soul is filled with anger and hatred. I fear that it cannot be saved.”
Kikyo said in a harsh tone, “You are wrong, I never said that I have the ability to save your soul from the darkness.” Hakushin gasped. Kikyo continued in a softer tone, “But I do want you to tell me, what is it that makes you so unbearably sad?”
Hakushin looked at her asking, “Sad you say?” his voice slightly trembling. Kikyo laid down her bow and moved to embrace him, holding his head against her chest, next to her heart. He sighed, almost fearfully. She said softly, “Even though I touch your very soul, I cannot feel the hatred, and bitterness you speak of.”
Her grip tightened on his shoulders, as she held him closer. His eyes widened as Naraku’s words entered his mind. He cried, “But I…”
Kikyo said calmly, “The tears you shed were not of hatred towards humans and their world.”
He admitted, “Yes, you’re right. I wanted to die an admirable death, as a saint, but it was not to be. I did not want to admit, my own weakness.” self loathing entering his voice at the last part. So I cried in despair, over the weakness of my own heart.”
Kikyo soothed, “How painful it must have been.”
He relied tearfully, “Yes… it was painful.”
Kikyo continued, “You have done more than enough good in this world. So please, let your soul become free.”
He asked, “Is that alright?” unsure anymore.
Kikyo answered, “Yes, it’s alright.”
The mummified priest sighed in relief as his eyes closed. His soul, now freed from the binds of confusion, shone brightly and floated into the air. Kikyo watched the soul, float into the clouds and disappear. Her hand went into her haori, and pulled out a lock of hair. Staring at it, she thought, “There is not one person in this world, who never feels lost, who has never sinned in life.
Standing to her feet, she thought, 'Those who try to be forever divine, those who try to be forever kind, and even those, who are tainted by evil- everyone, wishes to be saved,' she lifted the lock of hair toward the sky. The soul lifted into the sky and disappeared as well. She finished out loud, “Isn’t that right, Konsuke?” as the soul disappeared, she smiled saying, “He has found peace.”
The mountain began to tremble violently as the barrier fell, causing the mountain to take on a hideous appearance, as all life around the once pristine mountain, withered and died. Kikyo gasped, “The barrier, it’s been dissolved?” as she watched numerous smaller demons fleeing frantically from the cave, in every opening.
With Kagome:
She too, noticed the change. Her eyes widened in fear as she saw the multitude of demons fleeing.. “Oh no! Thousands of demons are swarming out of Mount Hakurei,” she stared in horror at the mountain’s hideous appearance, and the demons.
Her eyes widened in shock as she realized a few of the demons, had made a beeline straight for her.” She reached back, trying to grasp and notch her arrow, while shaking in fear. Unfortunately, she’d lost her grip on the arrow and had to make a mad dash for the ground, as a demon flew over her, circling back around, and diving for her again..
She clutched the ground frightened, expecting the demon to devour her any minute. “I’m sorry Mama, Souta, and Grandpa, I’m so sorry.” She said as she sobbed. She though regretfully, 'Bankotsu, I’m so sorry that I never got the chance to tell you, that I love you…' her heart braking as she realized she’d never see any of her loved ones or friends again.
Just when she thought she was a gonner for sure, Koga showed up and growled, lunging claws first at the demon; shredding it into pieces, that fell harmlessly on the ground around the frightened woman. She looked up and sat up and then gasped excitedly, “Koga!” as she saw him land on the ground, with one knee bent.
He replied firmly, “If anything were to happen to you, that good for nothing mutt, would never hear the end of it,” ending with a cocky smirk as he glanced at her. Standing to his feet, in front of her protectively, he challenged, “Alright, come on!” as the demons made their way back toward them again.
With Inuyasha:
He was still running deeper and faster into the cave. He yelled angrily, “Come on out and show yourself Naraku!” gripping the handle of his sword tightly. He jumped back as he heard the noise of something cutting through the rock around him. A bright blue light illuminated the cave, as it continued to slice through the wall in front of where Inuyasha had seconds ago been standing.
Inuyasha’s eyes went wide as the dust settled revealing non-other than Bankotsu himself. Bankotsu informed him smugly, “Inuyasha, you won’t actually be meeting Naraku,” placing his halberd behind his neck. Smirking at Inuyasha’s growl of frustration, he finished, “cause you and I have a score to settle.” He smirked down at the mutt thinking, 'And this time, you won’t get away.'
A/N Here is the 8th chapter of Secret Lovers. Enjoy please. :D