InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Secret Lovers ❯ 9 ( Chapter 9 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
The battle inside mount Hakurei Begins
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 02.13.2009 | Updated On: 02.20.2009 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 397 | Status: Completed
The battle inside mount Hakurei Begins
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 02.13.2009 | Updated On: 02.20.2009 | Pages: 4 | Words: 4.6K | Visits: 397 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: I own nothing but my little twists :P
Thanks to jamied1968 for being my beta.
A/N The following is MY version of how things should have gone.
Last time:
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.'
Now:
Outside the mountain:
Everyone gaped in awe and fear as the immense evil aura filled the air.
Kikyo stared at the mountain declaring, “It has to be Naraku.”
On another side, Sesshomaru said, “Just as I thought.”
With Koga and Kagome:
They were fighting and destroying the demons, as Ginta and Hakaku ran up yelling, “Kouga, Kagome!” carrying the two smaller demons.
Landing on his knees, Kouga looked over his shoulder at them, remarking, “You guys are too slow.”
“Hey there you guys,” Kagome greeted, as she placed her bow back in place so that she could hold the smaller demons.
Ginta said, “Kouga, thank goodness we’ve finally caught up.”
Hakaku said, “You two just got up and left,” as they panted from all the running.
Taking the two sick demons into her arms, Kagome said, “Yeah, sorry, but I’m glad you guys are okay.” Blinking in shock as Kirara mewled, and jumped to the ground transforming. Kagome asked surprised, “Kirara?” unsure what was going on.
In her loving arms, Shippo began to stir. Looking down Kagome asked, “You too Shippo?”
Looking up at his surrogate mother lovingly, Shippo informed, “I feel a lot better.” Kagome stared at him confused.
Standing to his feet and glaring at the mountain, Kouga said, “I don’t know why yet, but it seems like the sacred barrier has been dissolved. I can smell something coming from that mountain. It’s Naraku’s scent, and it smells a whole lot more powerful than it was before.”
The demons fleeing the mountains, charged towards them again. Hakaku said, “Here they come again!” drawing everyone’s attention toward the incoming attack.
Ginta cried, “Keep them away from me!” watching in fright as the demons edged closer.
Standing protectively in front of everyone, Koga said, “Maybe they’re hungry or something?” as he drove his palm and claws into the head of an oncoming demon, before leaping into the air to began killing them again. Kagome pulled out her bow and began shooting sacred arrows at the demon hoard. Kirara and Shippo also fought as best they could.
Other parts of the mountain:
Sesshomaru and Jaken began killing the hoards.
Releasing sacred arrows at the oncoming demon hoards, Kikyo took out her share of the demon hoards.
Back with Kagome:
Kouga destroyed another demon and said, “Let’s go!”
Hakaku and Ginta were back to back. Hakaku asked, “Where to?”
“To go get Naraku, where else,” Kouga replied, killing yet another demon. Hakaku and Ginta got frightened looks on their faces, as they continued fighting demons off with their backs pressed against each other.
Kouga stared at Kagome, calmly ordering, “Let’s go Kagome..”
In the stance to shoot another arrow, Kagome lowered her bow, yelling, “Kirara, let’s get moving.” Kirara retracted her fangs from a demon and growled that she’d heard her, and started running over toward the priestess. Kagome and Shippo ran alongside, and then jumped onto Kirara, so that the fire cat never broke her stride.
Hakaku yelled, “Hey, Wait up!” as he began chasing after them.
Ginta said, “Not again,” as he also ran after them, but they were already long gone.
Shippo said worriedly, “I really hope everyone’s okay.”
Staring ahead intently, Kagome looked down at him and assured, “I’m sure they’re just fine Shippo,” before looking back up and thinking, 'You’d better stay alive Bankotsu, and the others too.'
Deep Inside the cave:
Growling as his clawed hand went to the hilt of his sword, Inuyasha asked, “Bankotsu, are you gonna stand in my way?” staring at the teenage male mercenary with resolve in his eyes.
The cocky mercenary leader replied in a harsh tone, “You’re damn right. You killed all of my band of seven brothers,” tightening his hold on Banryu’s handle, he finished, “so now I’m gonna avenge their deaths,” standing tall and proud on a higher ground, staring down at the half breed thinking smugly, 'I can’t wait to see the looks at the pathetic half breed’s face, when he smells Kagome’s scent all over me.'
Inuyasha said, “Yeah well, six out of seven ain’t all that bad, but if killing you is the only way I can get to that bastard Naraku,” raising his sword he barked, “Than it’s time for a little family reunion. Windscar!” as he swung his sword down releasing the attack.
Bankotsu scoffed, “Fool,” raining his blade he yelled, “You think that’ll work on me? Well, think again!” grunting as he swung his Banryu in a cutting sideways motion, releasing his own attack, barreling directly for Inuyasha’s.
Realizing what had been released, Inuyasha thought stunned, 'A blast of heat?' as he watched the two attacks, equal in strength collide. He stood there groaning while the attacks cancelled each other out.
Holding Banryu upright, out to his side, Bankotsu said, “So, we’re evenly matched, ha,” as he stared at Inuyasha over the path where their powers had collided. Feeling rather confidant, thanks to the added power of all seven jewel shards in him, Bankotsu thought, 'Damn half breed, he’s had so much more time with my Kagome than I did. I’m glad that stupid mutt was too blind to see what he had in front of him.'
Shifting his feet, as his eyes darkened with anger, Bankotsu continued thinking, 'Tough, she’s mine now and I won’t let anyone take her away! I’m gonna kill this stupid hanyou and find my raven haired beauty!' snapping back to the battle at hand, he realized his opponent must be thinking. He thought, 'Let’s see what this mutt comes up with, shall we?'
Unaware of the mercenary’s thoughts, never taking his eyes off his rival, Inuyasha was lost in his own thoughts. 'Last time we fought at Hijiri Island he also managed to counter my Windscar, and now he’s even stronger.'
Scowling Inuyasha barked, “I know what you’re up to! You’re using the other six sacred jewel shards!”
Bankotsu stood there staring at him smugly and informed him, “Of course, and I use them with pride. I consider them keepsakes from my fallen brothers.” He began listing them off in order of rank, when he finished he added confidently, “Add my own jewel shard to all those and it totals seven. So you see I have more than enough power to defeat you!” raising Banryu to release another heat wave at the hated hanyou.
Raising his own sword, Inuyasha brought it down yelling, “Windscar,” as he released his own attack thinking, 'I don’t have time to mess around,' as he ran through the path opened in the blasts, leaping into the air, growling as he tried to surprise Bankotsu.
Prepared for the move, Bankotsu merely swung Banryu sideways, hitting Inuyasha in the gut, and knocking him clear across the cave. He hit the wall, falling flat on his face grunting in pain.
Bankotsu called out, “What’s the matter Inuyasha,” stabbing Banryu right where Inuyasha had been laying only a moment ago. Bankotsu flipped into the air with Banryu’s blade still in the ground, swinging his body weight around to twist, causing Banryu’s blade to tear up the ground as it also twisted. By the time Bankotsu landed heavily on his feet, bending to his knees before pushing back up into a horse stance. Banryu had exited the ground and he was prepared to strike..
Raising Banryu above his head and grabbing it with both hands, Bankotsu put all of his weight into swinging the weapon down, in an attempt to strike Inuyasha, whom had been sprawled on the ground when he’s leaped over him. Inuyasha’s barely recovered in time to roll out of the way of the strike to avoid getting killed.
Bankotsu stared directly at him and taunted, “That’s interesting; were you always this weak Inuyasha,” pulling his blade free from the foot deep hole, he added smugly, “or is that, I’ve become way to powerful for you?” staring at the hanyou calmly as he thought confidently, 'I can waste this pup anytime I wish. But first, I’m gonna toy with him a bit.'
Huffing as he pulled himself to his feet, Inuyasha barked back, “Are you telling me that you have all seven jewel shards Bankotsu, and that’s the best you can do?” huffing more as he finished.
Holding out his blade threatingly, Bankotsu replied in a knowing tone, “I gotta say, you sure do know how to talk tough. But unfortunately for you, that won’t be enough,” staring at the stupid dog with calm eyes. He was taunting him deliberately, trying to goad the mutt into growing angry, knowing if he was angry, he’d slip and Bankotsu would seize the moment ending his opponent then and there.
Grasping his sword, Inuyasha barked, ”I’ll carve out every one of those jewel shards, so get ready to meet your maker Bankotsu!” they ran at each other, swords colliding repeatedly The sound of metal clashing against metal rang throughout the cave, as the combatants continued striking their swords at each other. The weapons scraped as the males pushed closer together.
As they stared at each other over their connected blades, Inuyasha inhaled and snarled as he caught a distinct scent. He snarled, “How dare you!?” glaring hatefully at the cocky teen, as his blood began to boil.
Bankotsu smirked taunting haughtily, “Took ya long enough.” Giving a mock sigh he added, “I’m disappointed in you Inuyasha. I figured with your keen sense of smell, you’d have picked up her scent on me much sooner.” Smirking with evil eyes he finished, “After all you’re supposed to be a dog demon right?” Adding insult to injury Bankotsu corrected in a harsh tone, “My mistake, you’re not a real demon, just a half demon.”
Inuyasha growled, “You son of a...” as he glared amber eyes burning with hatred at his opponent. His anger was rising dangerously.
Knowing he was getting under the half breed’s skin, Bankotsu taunted, “I gotta tell you, those breathy little noises she made when I was inside her,” stopping to watch Inuyasha’s teeth bare, before he continued, “The way she pulled me deeper, begging me not to stop.” Inuyasha snarled and maneuvered their swords up, shoving Bankotsu’s up, and back, moving to strike Banryu with his blade.
Bankotsu flipped into the air and landed on his feet easily, with his blade in front of him, as he finished, “How tight she was, really made me want to take her over and over again, and I did Inuyasha, I took her tight little body over and over. She screamed in ecstasy writhing underneath me, calling out my name in sheer bliss. Not yours Inuyasha, my name,” smirking smugly as he saw the hatred in Inuyasha’s eyes multiply.
Bankotsu knew he’d make a mistake now, and was waiting for it, with a cool head, thoroughly enjoying the fact he was riling the dog. Bankotsu thought sourly, 'Serves that bastard right! He’s had more time with Kagome, than I have, well that will change once I’ve killed him… Still, he’s been gifted with her smile and warm nature far longer than I have,' feeling a little miffed, and very jealous that his enemy had been around his Kagome a lot longer.
Clenching his hands around the hilt of his weapon, he decided it was time to really get under the hanyou’s skin. Remembering that the dead priestess was this dog’s main weakness, Bankotsu added, “Kikyo’s pretty alright, but she doesn’t even come close to my Kagome.” childishly taunting, “Naraku told me all about you and that dead priestess Kikyo and how you were stupid enough to get pinned to a tree for fifty years. So you have no business criticizing me and my brothers, half breed!”
Inuyasha recoiled as if from a slap growling, “What did you say!?” as memories of his past briefly flashed into his head. Clearing his head he growled, “Seems you and Naraku have been talking quite a lot, huh?”
Bankotsu informed him calmly, “Actually this is the second time I’ve run into Naraku.”
Across the cave Inuyasha pondered evenly, “What’d ya mean by that?“ staring at his enemy.
Bankotsu informed him, “The first time we met, was before the Schichinatai was formed. Looking back it’s kind of a strange coincidence.”
Inuyasha retorted condescendingly, “So you’re old pals.” Staring at Bankotsu with a scrunched up and disgusted face, thinking, 'Figures Naraku would pick this bastard then.'
Insulted, Bankotsu scoffed, “Ha! I don’t befriend demons!” and proceeded to explain the first meeting. Despite hating this man, Inuyasha listened intently, hoping for some clue how to defeat Naraku.
After recounting his first meeting, Bankotsu chuckled amused adding, “Naraku and I met again after that, and he told me much more than at our first meeting.”
Inuyasha scoffed, “Naraku didn’t resurrect you just to have someone to talk. You must be a real idiot Bankotsu!”
Looking insulted, Bankotsu said matter of factly, “You’re the only idiot around here,” staring at the dog like he was insane.
Feeling insulted, Inuyasha growled, “What?!” as he narrowed his gaze at the zombie teen.
Bankotsu informed him, “You can tell by one glance, what kind of man he is. A sharper person would have seen that.” Adding smugly, “Need I remind you about how Kagome called my name as she came?”
Inuyasha growled, “Watch your mouth Bankotsu! Naraku’s just taking advantage of you and making you do his dirty work.” Trying to wake the teen up to the fact he was being used as a pawn.
Bankotsu replied, “Well, it doesn’t really matter. I’m a busy man and I’ve got things to do- like settling the score with you!” charging toward Inuyasha again. As their blades clashed they put their all into each blow.
Bankotsu pulled back his halberd preparing to slice the hanyou. Inuyasha flipped into the air and back to safety. Bankotsu’s sword collided with the ground where Inuyasha had been standing. Raising his mighty weapon, Bankotsu thought determined, 'I’ve been given a second chance at life, and I’m not gonna waste it!'
As he and Inuyasha released attacks at each other, which clashed and canceled each other out, memories flashed in his head of Naraku reviving him, then of Kagome and their brief times together. Determination and resolve invaded Bankotsu as he silently vowed to himself, “I will get her back!”
As the dust settled, Bankotsu pulled himself to his feet and declared, “I’m not doing this because of his orders,” gasping as he saw that Inuyasha had survived the attacks and explosion as well. Bankotsu said surprised, “So you survived?” raising Banryu and preparing to charge into battle he yelled, “That’s good ‘cause now I can kill you!”
Inuyasha fiercely vowed, “One of us is gonna die here today, but it isn’t gonna be me!” as he also charged into battle.
With Sango and Miroku:
They were running through a corridor still, with the mountain shaking and debris falling all behind them. Sango yelled frightened, “It’s collapsing!”
Miroku looked at her over his shoulder as he continued running and said, “It seems the barrier around the scared mountain has been totally dissolved. An evil aura is pouring out.”
Sango running up beside him, side glanced at him asking, “Is it Naraku’s aura?” keeping Hiraikotsu firmly in hand over her back as they ran.
Clutching his staff tightly as they ran, Miroku answered, “Yes and it’s much stronger than before.” Looking ahead of them he said, “Wait! It’s a demonic aura, and it’s getting stronger.”
They ran into the light they had seen up ahead and stopped. Looking around Sango asked, “Hey wait, is this… the shaft we were in before?”
They simultaneously felt a dark presence rising from beneath them and looked over the ledge. Sango said concerned, “Miroku?”
Gripping his staff, Miroku answered, “Yes, I sense it too.” They stared into the deep pit beyond them, as the vibrations increased. Deep in the pit, they spotted something that caused them to gasp in shock.
Miroku said, “Naraku! It is him,” as they continued glaring over the lip of the wooden fence. As their enemy disappeared, Miroku yelled, hey, wait!” Sango, sensing another presence, gasped as she looked up
They were attacked with wind blades. Miroku started to say, “That has to be- “ but was cut off.
Kagura holding up her fan said seriously, “Keep looking down, and you’ll lose your head.”
Miroku finished in a hiss, “Kagura,” as he and Sango stared at the duo across the cave from them. Kagura giggled and smiled as she tilted her head, staring at them. Kanna stood silently beside her older sister.
Sango gasped, “Miroku, Naraku’s disappeared.” Miroku nodded.
Leaning back over Miroku continued, “He was there, and then it seemed like he ran away.” Staring up at the demoness across the way, he continued, “Now I get it, Naraku is still incomplete, isn’t he Kagura?”
Looking innocent and feigning ignorance, Kagura asked, “Huh? What do you mean monk?”
Miroku explained, “Naraku took refuge inside mount Hakurei because his barrier was broken be Inuyasha’s red tetsuiga. Isn’t that the case?” he demanded, staring intently at the aloof demoness. He sternly continued, “That’s why Naraku hid himself in here, isn’t it? To reform his barrier and restore his powers,” fairly confident he was correct.
Kagura replied evenly, “I’m sorry to disappoint you, but Naraku doesn’t tell me things like that,” opening her eyes she added slightly amused, “I suppose he doesn’t trust me all that much. You’d be better to ask Kanna about Naraku, though she probably won’t say much.”
Miroku demanded, “Tell us everything you know, right now Kagura.”
Not liking his tone, Kagura said in a harsh tone, “If you really wanna know all this so badly, why not as Naraku?” opening her fan, she added, “I’ll even help you follow him!” releasing the wind blades towards the two humans.
They started falling and yelled, then spotting a ledge, hopped off the crumbling wood, onto the fresh edge. Before they could catch their breaths, Kagura screamed and released another wave of wind blades towards them, crumbling the entire path, forcing them to fall into the abyss. Kagura, leaned over her railing and scoffed, “Ha,” walking away with her nose in the air.
Back with Inuyasha and Bankotsu:
Inuyasha yelled, “Come and get it Bankotsu!” as he leapt toward the mercenary, preparing to strike with his sword. Swinging his halberd to counter the attack, Bankotsu quickly ducked his body behind his massive weapon, trying to fend off the blast from the combined attacks; as did Inuyasha.
Inuyasha thought, 'Damn, I’m not getting anywhere. If only Bankotsu were a demon, my backlash wave would take care of him.'
Ready for battle, legs in a horse stance, Bankotsu demanded calmly, “What’s the matter Inuyasha? Are you out of breath?” staring at his adversary calmly.
Inuyasha stared at him continuing to think, 'Even if he is an evil specter, he doesn’t have a demonic aura, and without that aura to entrap and send back at them; I can’t use my backlash wave!' Staring into the hard blue eyes of his rival, Inuyasha thought, 'Damn that Naraku! That’s why he went through the trouble to resurrect these seven specters to fight his battles.'
Bankotsu smirked before taunting, “Well well, you look deep in thought. Are you thinking about where you’d like to be buried?”
Inuyasha growled back, “Ha! I was thinking about how I’d intended to kill you right away, but I’ve changed my mind, because I’m having way too much fun!” charging back into the battle.
With Koga and Kagome:
Ginta and Hakaku were running beside Kirara and panted asking, “What’s going on Kouga? All the greenery around Mount Hakurei is dead.”
Kouga answered evenly, “It was all destroyed by Naraku’s miasma.”
Kagome riding on Kirara’s back informed them, “I sense the sacred jewel shards. They’re coming from two different places: From below the mountain and near the center.”
Kouga continued running alongside the flying cat. He questioned confused, “Huh? Two places?”
Kagome added, “Below the mountain is stronger,” as she sat perched on top of the cat demon.
Glancing at her Kouga said, “That’ll be Naraku,” keeping an easy pace.
Kagome answered, “Most likely,” clutching tight to Kirara’s fur.
Picking up his whirlwind, Kouga said, “Alright, lead the way Kagome,” and took off running.
Stunned Hakaku asked, “How can she lead you anywhere, when you take off like that?”
Kagome ordered, “Alright Kirara, let’s get moving.” The cat picked up speed and fly to catch up with Kouga. As they flew towards the mountain she thought desperately, 'Miroku, Sango, Inuyasha, everybody please hang on! Especially you Bankotsu, I have to tell him!'
Back with Inuyasha and Bankotsu:
They continued battling, with Inuyasha having to jump away from the blasts and broken floor. Bankotsu calmly walked over to him waiting for his opponent to stand on his feet honorably. Inuyasha climbed to his feet and thought, "Damn, Naraku’s just ahead.”
Bankotsu taunted mocking, “What’s the matter Inuyasha? I thought you said you were having fun?” as he stood waiting for Inuyasha to continue their little skirmish.
Inuyasha thought, 'What’ll I do? I can’t beat Bankotsu like this,' his eyes darting from his adversary to the doorway and back a few times.
Growing bored Bankotsu said, “Come on, I can’t just stay here and play with you forever you know?”
Frustrated, Inuyasha thought, 'What am I gonna do?' beginning to become desperate.
Bankotsu shouted, “So let’s just end this right now!” swinging his weapon down, releasing another blast of heat.
Taking advantage of the dust riled up, Inuyasha leapt above and tossed his sword dead towards Bankotsu, who smugly countered by knocking it away with Banryu. All his weight was behind the motion, giving Inuyasha the advantage. He landed and Bankotsu then realized his position, gasping in shock. Inuyasha quickly spun around with his claws extended yelling, “Iron reaver soul stealer!” as he sliced into the mercenary’s wrist; causing him groan in pain and lose his treasured blade and grab his injured limb.
Glaring at the enemy, Bankotsu demanded in a deep tone, “How dare you?!” holding his bleeding wrist with his good hand.
Inuyasha now holding two of the jewel shards answered smugly, “Ha! I knew you had the jewel shards in your arm.” Placing the shards safely inside his haori he continued, “Your sword arm seemed unusually strong, and it got me thinking!”
Bankotsu replied sorely, “So, you took a guess, seems like you have all the luck!”
Inuyasha replied smugly, “Oh it’s more than luck Bankotsu. I’m gonna cut out all your shards, and the next one’s in your neck!” popping his knuckles preparing to strike.
As the half demon leapt, aiming for his neck, Bankotsu started back peddling quickly; keeping firm steps as he evaded the smug demon. Inuyasha continued blindly charging forward, swiping for the neck. Just when Inuyasha thought he had the mercenary and mentally boasted, 'Got him.' He was shocked. Bankotsu smirked arrogantly thinking, 'Think you got me huh?' he quickly and without warning tilted his upper body to the side avoiding the strike.
Inuyasha thought, 'Huh? What happened?' as he saw a massive fist aiming for his face. He tried to dodge it but failed. A loud thud of flesh pounding flesh reverberated through the cave as Inuyasha went flying and landed flat on his back.
Bankotsu standing up straight, and raising the hand Inuyasha had cut the jewel shards out of into the air, demanded, “Don’t underestimate me half demon! Just who do you think you’re dealing with?”
Inuyasha sitting up growled, “You bastard, “ as he continued sitting all the way up, staring at his enemy.
Smirking with pride, Bankotsu informed him in a deadly serious tone, “I am Bankotsu, leader of the Band of Seven, and I’ve never lost a battle to anyone,” smugly staring down at his opponent.
A/N Here is the 9th 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:
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.'
Now:
Outside the mountain:
Everyone gaped in awe and fear as the immense evil aura filled the air.
Kikyo stared at the mountain declaring, “It has to be Naraku.”
On another side, Sesshomaru said, “Just as I thought.”
With Koga and Kagome:
They were fighting and destroying the demons, as Ginta and Hakaku ran up yelling, “Kouga, Kagome!” carrying the two smaller demons.
Landing on his knees, Kouga looked over his shoulder at them, remarking, “You guys are too slow.”
“Hey there you guys,” Kagome greeted, as she placed her bow back in place so that she could hold the smaller demons.
Ginta said, “Kouga, thank goodness we’ve finally caught up.”
Hakaku said, “You two just got up and left,” as they panted from all the running.
Taking the two sick demons into her arms, Kagome said, “Yeah, sorry, but I’m glad you guys are okay.” Blinking in shock as Kirara mewled, and jumped to the ground transforming. Kagome asked surprised, “Kirara?” unsure what was going on.
In her loving arms, Shippo began to stir. Looking down Kagome asked, “You too Shippo?”
Looking up at his surrogate mother lovingly, Shippo informed, “I feel a lot better.” Kagome stared at him confused.
Standing to his feet and glaring at the mountain, Kouga said, “I don’t know why yet, but it seems like the sacred barrier has been dissolved. I can smell something coming from that mountain. It’s Naraku’s scent, and it smells a whole lot more powerful than it was before.”
The demons fleeing the mountains, charged towards them again. Hakaku said, “Here they come again!” drawing everyone’s attention toward the incoming attack.
Ginta cried, “Keep them away from me!” watching in fright as the demons edged closer.
Standing protectively in front of everyone, Koga said, “Maybe they’re hungry or something?” as he drove his palm and claws into the head of an oncoming demon, before leaping into the air to began killing them again. Kagome pulled out her bow and began shooting sacred arrows at the demon hoard. Kirara and Shippo also fought as best they could.
Other parts of the mountain:
Sesshomaru and Jaken began killing the hoards.
Releasing sacred arrows at the oncoming demon hoards, Kikyo took out her share of the demon hoards.
Back with Kagome:
Kouga destroyed another demon and said, “Let’s go!”
Hakaku and Ginta were back to back. Hakaku asked, “Where to?”
“To go get Naraku, where else,” Kouga replied, killing yet another demon. Hakaku and Ginta got frightened looks on their faces, as they continued fighting demons off with their backs pressed against each other.
Kouga stared at Kagome, calmly ordering, “Let’s go Kagome..”
In the stance to shoot another arrow, Kagome lowered her bow, yelling, “Kirara, let’s get moving.” Kirara retracted her fangs from a demon and growled that she’d heard her, and started running over toward the priestess. Kagome and Shippo ran alongside, and then jumped onto Kirara, so that the fire cat never broke her stride.
Hakaku yelled, “Hey, Wait up!” as he began chasing after them.
Ginta said, “Not again,” as he also ran after them, but they were already long gone.
Shippo said worriedly, “I really hope everyone’s okay.”
Staring ahead intently, Kagome looked down at him and assured, “I’m sure they’re just fine Shippo,” before looking back up and thinking, 'You’d better stay alive Bankotsu, and the others too.'
Deep Inside the cave:
Growling as his clawed hand went to the hilt of his sword, Inuyasha asked, “Bankotsu, are you gonna stand in my way?” staring at the teenage male mercenary with resolve in his eyes.
The cocky mercenary leader replied in a harsh tone, “You’re damn right. You killed all of my band of seven brothers,” tightening his hold on Banryu’s handle, he finished, “so now I’m gonna avenge their deaths,” standing tall and proud on a higher ground, staring down at the half breed thinking smugly, 'I can’t wait to see the looks at the pathetic half breed’s face, when he smells Kagome’s scent all over me.'
Inuyasha said, “Yeah well, six out of seven ain’t all that bad, but if killing you is the only way I can get to that bastard Naraku,” raising his sword he barked, “Than it’s time for a little family reunion. Windscar!” as he swung his sword down releasing the attack.
Bankotsu scoffed, “Fool,” raining his blade he yelled, “You think that’ll work on me? Well, think again!” grunting as he swung his Banryu in a cutting sideways motion, releasing his own attack, barreling directly for Inuyasha’s.
Realizing what had been released, Inuyasha thought stunned, 'A blast of heat?' as he watched the two attacks, equal in strength collide. He stood there groaning while the attacks cancelled each other out.
Holding Banryu upright, out to his side, Bankotsu said, “So, we’re evenly matched, ha,” as he stared at Inuyasha over the path where their powers had collided. Feeling rather confidant, thanks to the added power of all seven jewel shards in him, Bankotsu thought, 'Damn half breed, he’s had so much more time with my Kagome than I did. I’m glad that stupid mutt was too blind to see what he had in front of him.'
Shifting his feet, as his eyes darkened with anger, Bankotsu continued thinking, 'Tough, she’s mine now and I won’t let anyone take her away! I’m gonna kill this stupid hanyou and find my raven haired beauty!' snapping back to the battle at hand, he realized his opponent must be thinking. He thought, 'Let’s see what this mutt comes up with, shall we?'
Unaware of the mercenary’s thoughts, never taking his eyes off his rival, Inuyasha was lost in his own thoughts. 'Last time we fought at Hijiri Island he also managed to counter my Windscar, and now he’s even stronger.'
Scowling Inuyasha barked, “I know what you’re up to! You’re using the other six sacred jewel shards!”
Bankotsu stood there staring at him smugly and informed him, “Of course, and I use them with pride. I consider them keepsakes from my fallen brothers.” He began listing them off in order of rank, when he finished he added confidently, “Add my own jewel shard to all those and it totals seven. So you see I have more than enough power to defeat you!” raising Banryu to release another heat wave at the hated hanyou.
Raising his own sword, Inuyasha brought it down yelling, “Windscar,” as he released his own attack thinking, 'I don’t have time to mess around,' as he ran through the path opened in the blasts, leaping into the air, growling as he tried to surprise Bankotsu.
Prepared for the move, Bankotsu merely swung Banryu sideways, hitting Inuyasha in the gut, and knocking him clear across the cave. He hit the wall, falling flat on his face grunting in pain.
Bankotsu called out, “What’s the matter Inuyasha,” stabbing Banryu right where Inuyasha had been laying only a moment ago. Bankotsu flipped into the air with Banryu’s blade still in the ground, swinging his body weight around to twist, causing Banryu’s blade to tear up the ground as it also twisted. By the time Bankotsu landed heavily on his feet, bending to his knees before pushing back up into a horse stance. Banryu had exited the ground and he was prepared to strike..
Raising Banryu above his head and grabbing it with both hands, Bankotsu put all of his weight into swinging the weapon down, in an attempt to strike Inuyasha, whom had been sprawled on the ground when he’s leaped over him. Inuyasha’s barely recovered in time to roll out of the way of the strike to avoid getting killed.
Bankotsu stared directly at him and taunted, “That’s interesting; were you always this weak Inuyasha,” pulling his blade free from the foot deep hole, he added smugly, “or is that, I’ve become way to powerful for you?” staring at the hanyou calmly as he thought confidently, 'I can waste this pup anytime I wish. But first, I’m gonna toy with him a bit.'
Huffing as he pulled himself to his feet, Inuyasha barked back, “Are you telling me that you have all seven jewel shards Bankotsu, and that’s the best you can do?” huffing more as he finished.
Holding out his blade threatingly, Bankotsu replied in a knowing tone, “I gotta say, you sure do know how to talk tough. But unfortunately for you, that won’t be enough,” staring at the stupid dog with calm eyes. He was taunting him deliberately, trying to goad the mutt into growing angry, knowing if he was angry, he’d slip and Bankotsu would seize the moment ending his opponent then and there.
Grasping his sword, Inuyasha barked, ”I’ll carve out every one of those jewel shards, so get ready to meet your maker Bankotsu!” they ran at each other, swords colliding repeatedly The sound of metal clashing against metal rang throughout the cave, as the combatants continued striking their swords at each other. The weapons scraped as the males pushed closer together.
As they stared at each other over their connected blades, Inuyasha inhaled and snarled as he caught a distinct scent. He snarled, “How dare you!?” glaring hatefully at the cocky teen, as his blood began to boil.
Bankotsu smirked taunting haughtily, “Took ya long enough.” Giving a mock sigh he added, “I’m disappointed in you Inuyasha. I figured with your keen sense of smell, you’d have picked up her scent on me much sooner.” Smirking with evil eyes he finished, “After all you’re supposed to be a dog demon right?” Adding insult to injury Bankotsu corrected in a harsh tone, “My mistake, you’re not a real demon, just a half demon.”
Inuyasha growled, “You son of a...” as he glared amber eyes burning with hatred at his opponent. His anger was rising dangerously.
Knowing he was getting under the half breed’s skin, Bankotsu taunted, “I gotta tell you, those breathy little noises she made when I was inside her,” stopping to watch Inuyasha’s teeth bare, before he continued, “The way she pulled me deeper, begging me not to stop.” Inuyasha snarled and maneuvered their swords up, shoving Bankotsu’s up, and back, moving to strike Banryu with his blade.
Bankotsu flipped into the air and landed on his feet easily, with his blade in front of him, as he finished, “How tight she was, really made me want to take her over and over again, and I did Inuyasha, I took her tight little body over and over. She screamed in ecstasy writhing underneath me, calling out my name in sheer bliss. Not yours Inuyasha, my name,” smirking smugly as he saw the hatred in Inuyasha’s eyes multiply.
Bankotsu knew he’d make a mistake now, and was waiting for it, with a cool head, thoroughly enjoying the fact he was riling the dog. Bankotsu thought sourly, 'Serves that bastard right! He’s had more time with Kagome, than I have, well that will change once I’ve killed him… Still, he’s been gifted with her smile and warm nature far longer than I have,' feeling a little miffed, and very jealous that his enemy had been around his Kagome a lot longer.
Clenching his hands around the hilt of his weapon, he decided it was time to really get under the hanyou’s skin. Remembering that the dead priestess was this dog’s main weakness, Bankotsu added, “Kikyo’s pretty alright, but she doesn’t even come close to my Kagome.” childishly taunting, “Naraku told me all about you and that dead priestess Kikyo and how you were stupid enough to get pinned to a tree for fifty years. So you have no business criticizing me and my brothers, half breed!”
Inuyasha recoiled as if from a slap growling, “What did you say!?” as memories of his past briefly flashed into his head. Clearing his head he growled, “Seems you and Naraku have been talking quite a lot, huh?”
Bankotsu informed him calmly, “Actually this is the second time I’ve run into Naraku.”
Across the cave Inuyasha pondered evenly, “What’d ya mean by that?“ staring at his enemy.
Bankotsu informed him, “The first time we met, was before the Schichinatai was formed. Looking back it’s kind of a strange coincidence.”
Inuyasha retorted condescendingly, “So you’re old pals.” Staring at Bankotsu with a scrunched up and disgusted face, thinking, 'Figures Naraku would pick this bastard then.'
Insulted, Bankotsu scoffed, “Ha! I don’t befriend demons!” and proceeded to explain the first meeting. Despite hating this man, Inuyasha listened intently, hoping for some clue how to defeat Naraku.
After recounting his first meeting, Bankotsu chuckled amused adding, “Naraku and I met again after that, and he told me much more than at our first meeting.”
Inuyasha scoffed, “Naraku didn’t resurrect you just to have someone to talk. You must be a real idiot Bankotsu!”
Looking insulted, Bankotsu said matter of factly, “You’re the only idiot around here,” staring at the dog like he was insane.
Feeling insulted, Inuyasha growled, “What?!” as he narrowed his gaze at the zombie teen.
Bankotsu informed him, “You can tell by one glance, what kind of man he is. A sharper person would have seen that.” Adding smugly, “Need I remind you about how Kagome called my name as she came?”
Inuyasha growled, “Watch your mouth Bankotsu! Naraku’s just taking advantage of you and making you do his dirty work.” Trying to wake the teen up to the fact he was being used as a pawn.
Bankotsu replied, “Well, it doesn’t really matter. I’m a busy man and I’ve got things to do- like settling the score with you!” charging toward Inuyasha again. As their blades clashed they put their all into each blow.
Bankotsu pulled back his halberd preparing to slice the hanyou. Inuyasha flipped into the air and back to safety. Bankotsu’s sword collided with the ground where Inuyasha had been standing. Raising his mighty weapon, Bankotsu thought determined, 'I’ve been given a second chance at life, and I’m not gonna waste it!'
As he and Inuyasha released attacks at each other, which clashed and canceled each other out, memories flashed in his head of Naraku reviving him, then of Kagome and their brief times together. Determination and resolve invaded Bankotsu as he silently vowed to himself, “I will get her back!”
As the dust settled, Bankotsu pulled himself to his feet and declared, “I’m not doing this because of his orders,” gasping as he saw that Inuyasha had survived the attacks and explosion as well. Bankotsu said surprised, “So you survived?” raising Banryu and preparing to charge into battle he yelled, “That’s good ‘cause now I can kill you!”
Inuyasha fiercely vowed, “One of us is gonna die here today, but it isn’t gonna be me!” as he also charged into battle.
With Sango and Miroku:
They were running through a corridor still, with the mountain shaking and debris falling all behind them. Sango yelled frightened, “It’s collapsing!”
Miroku looked at her over his shoulder as he continued running and said, “It seems the barrier around the scared mountain has been totally dissolved. An evil aura is pouring out.”
Sango running up beside him, side glanced at him asking, “Is it Naraku’s aura?” keeping Hiraikotsu firmly in hand over her back as they ran.
Clutching his staff tightly as they ran, Miroku answered, “Yes and it’s much stronger than before.” Looking ahead of them he said, “Wait! It’s a demonic aura, and it’s getting stronger.”
They ran into the light they had seen up ahead and stopped. Looking around Sango asked, “Hey wait, is this… the shaft we were in before?”
They simultaneously felt a dark presence rising from beneath them and looked over the ledge. Sango said concerned, “Miroku?”
Gripping his staff, Miroku answered, “Yes, I sense it too.” They stared into the deep pit beyond them, as the vibrations increased. Deep in the pit, they spotted something that caused them to gasp in shock.
Miroku said, “Naraku! It is him,” as they continued glaring over the lip of the wooden fence. As their enemy disappeared, Miroku yelled, hey, wait!” Sango, sensing another presence, gasped as she looked up
They were attacked with wind blades. Miroku started to say, “That has to be- “ but was cut off.
Kagura holding up her fan said seriously, “Keep looking down, and you’ll lose your head.”
Miroku finished in a hiss, “Kagura,” as he and Sango stared at the duo across the cave from them. Kagura giggled and smiled as she tilted her head, staring at them. Kanna stood silently beside her older sister.
Sango gasped, “Miroku, Naraku’s disappeared.” Miroku nodded.
Leaning back over Miroku continued, “He was there, and then it seemed like he ran away.” Staring up at the demoness across the way, he continued, “Now I get it, Naraku is still incomplete, isn’t he Kagura?”
Looking innocent and feigning ignorance, Kagura asked, “Huh? What do you mean monk?”
Miroku explained, “Naraku took refuge inside mount Hakurei because his barrier was broken be Inuyasha’s red tetsuiga. Isn’t that the case?” he demanded, staring intently at the aloof demoness. He sternly continued, “That’s why Naraku hid himself in here, isn’t it? To reform his barrier and restore his powers,” fairly confident he was correct.
Kagura replied evenly, “I’m sorry to disappoint you, but Naraku doesn’t tell me things like that,” opening her eyes she added slightly amused, “I suppose he doesn’t trust me all that much. You’d be better to ask Kanna about Naraku, though she probably won’t say much.”
Miroku demanded, “Tell us everything you know, right now Kagura.”
Not liking his tone, Kagura said in a harsh tone, “If you really wanna know all this so badly, why not as Naraku?” opening her fan, she added, “I’ll even help you follow him!” releasing the wind blades towards the two humans.
They started falling and yelled, then spotting a ledge, hopped off the crumbling wood, onto the fresh edge. Before they could catch their breaths, Kagura screamed and released another wave of wind blades towards them, crumbling the entire path, forcing them to fall into the abyss. Kagura, leaned over her railing and scoffed, “Ha,” walking away with her nose in the air.
Back with Inuyasha and Bankotsu:
Inuyasha yelled, “Come and get it Bankotsu!” as he leapt toward the mercenary, preparing to strike with his sword. Swinging his halberd to counter the attack, Bankotsu quickly ducked his body behind his massive weapon, trying to fend off the blast from the combined attacks; as did Inuyasha.
Inuyasha thought, 'Damn, I’m not getting anywhere. If only Bankotsu were a demon, my backlash wave would take care of him.'
Ready for battle, legs in a horse stance, Bankotsu demanded calmly, “What’s the matter Inuyasha? Are you out of breath?” staring at his adversary calmly.
Inuyasha stared at him continuing to think, 'Even if he is an evil specter, he doesn’t have a demonic aura, and without that aura to entrap and send back at them; I can’t use my backlash wave!' Staring into the hard blue eyes of his rival, Inuyasha thought, 'Damn that Naraku! That’s why he went through the trouble to resurrect these seven specters to fight his battles.'
Bankotsu smirked before taunting, “Well well, you look deep in thought. Are you thinking about where you’d like to be buried?”
Inuyasha growled back, “Ha! I was thinking about how I’d intended to kill you right away, but I’ve changed my mind, because I’m having way too much fun!” charging back into the battle.
With Koga and Kagome:
Ginta and Hakaku were running beside Kirara and panted asking, “What’s going on Kouga? All the greenery around Mount Hakurei is dead.”
Kouga answered evenly, “It was all destroyed by Naraku’s miasma.”
Kagome riding on Kirara’s back informed them, “I sense the sacred jewel shards. They’re coming from two different places: From below the mountain and near the center.”
Kouga continued running alongside the flying cat. He questioned confused, “Huh? Two places?”
Kagome added, “Below the mountain is stronger,” as she sat perched on top of the cat demon.
Glancing at her Kouga said, “That’ll be Naraku,” keeping an easy pace.
Kagome answered, “Most likely,” clutching tight to Kirara’s fur.
Picking up his whirlwind, Kouga said, “Alright, lead the way Kagome,” and took off running.
Stunned Hakaku asked, “How can she lead you anywhere, when you take off like that?”
Kagome ordered, “Alright Kirara, let’s get moving.” The cat picked up speed and fly to catch up with Kouga. As they flew towards the mountain she thought desperately, 'Miroku, Sango, Inuyasha, everybody please hang on! Especially you Bankotsu, I have to tell him!'
Back with Inuyasha and Bankotsu:
They continued battling, with Inuyasha having to jump away from the blasts and broken floor. Bankotsu calmly walked over to him waiting for his opponent to stand on his feet honorably. Inuyasha climbed to his feet and thought, "Damn, Naraku’s just ahead.”
Bankotsu taunted mocking, “What’s the matter Inuyasha? I thought you said you were having fun?” as he stood waiting for Inuyasha to continue their little skirmish.
Inuyasha thought, 'What’ll I do? I can’t beat Bankotsu like this,' his eyes darting from his adversary to the doorway and back a few times.
Growing bored Bankotsu said, “Come on, I can’t just stay here and play with you forever you know?”
Frustrated, Inuyasha thought, 'What am I gonna do?' beginning to become desperate.
Bankotsu shouted, “So let’s just end this right now!” swinging his weapon down, releasing another blast of heat.
Taking advantage of the dust riled up, Inuyasha leapt above and tossed his sword dead towards Bankotsu, who smugly countered by knocking it away with Banryu. All his weight was behind the motion, giving Inuyasha the advantage. He landed and Bankotsu then realized his position, gasping in shock. Inuyasha quickly spun around with his claws extended yelling, “Iron reaver soul stealer!” as he sliced into the mercenary’s wrist; causing him groan in pain and lose his treasured blade and grab his injured limb.
Glaring at the enemy, Bankotsu demanded in a deep tone, “How dare you?!” holding his bleeding wrist with his good hand.
Inuyasha now holding two of the jewel shards answered smugly, “Ha! I knew you had the jewel shards in your arm.” Placing the shards safely inside his haori he continued, “Your sword arm seemed unusually strong, and it got me thinking!”
Bankotsu replied sorely, “So, you took a guess, seems like you have all the luck!”
Inuyasha replied smugly, “Oh it’s more than luck Bankotsu. I’m gonna cut out all your shards, and the next one’s in your neck!” popping his knuckles preparing to strike.
As the half demon leapt, aiming for his neck, Bankotsu started back peddling quickly; keeping firm steps as he evaded the smug demon. Inuyasha continued blindly charging forward, swiping for the neck. Just when Inuyasha thought he had the mercenary and mentally boasted, 'Got him.' He was shocked. Bankotsu smirked arrogantly thinking, 'Think you got me huh?' he quickly and without warning tilted his upper body to the side avoiding the strike.
Inuyasha thought, 'Huh? What happened?' as he saw a massive fist aiming for his face. He tried to dodge it but failed. A loud thud of flesh pounding flesh reverberated through the cave as Inuyasha went flying and landed flat on his back.
Bankotsu standing up straight, and raising the hand Inuyasha had cut the jewel shards out of into the air, demanded, “Don’t underestimate me half demon! Just who do you think you’re dealing with?”
Inuyasha sitting up growled, “You bastard, “ as he continued sitting all the way up, staring at his enemy.
Smirking with pride, Bankotsu informed him in a deadly serious tone, “I am Bankotsu, leader of the Band of Seven, and I’ve never lost a battle to anyone,” smugly staring down at his opponent.
A/N Here is the 9th chapter of Secret Lovers. Enjoy please. :D