InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ You Darkness... ❯ Chapter 34 - I Can Never Return, but I Will Be Back... ( Chapter 34 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Vyncent 
"Hai! The fabled and quite real, 'Shikon no Tama'," Daitoku responded. "You see, Hidenori-san, my granddaughter found out on her fifteenth birthday that she had been born with the Jewel embedded in her body......
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Hentai | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 02.26.2005 | Pages: 4 | Words: 7.9K | Visits: 3.1K | Status: Work In Progress
"Hai! The fabled and quite real, 'Shikon no Tama'," Daitoku responded. "You see, Hidenori-san, my granddaughter found out on her fifteenth birthday that she had been born with the Jewel embedded in her body......
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Hentai | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 02.26.2005 | Pages: 4 | Words: 7.9K | Visits: 3.1K | Status: Work In Progress
You Darkness
by Vyncent
**This story contains violence, sexual content and rape! Some of the contents of this story are graphic. You are WARNED**
Disclaimer: I do now own Inuyasha, nor any of the associated characters. But it ain't because I don't want or wish to do so.
Chapter 34 - I Can Never Return, but I Will Be Back...
It was almost a fortnight before anyone heard much from Sesshomaru and Kouga. Kouga had shown up briefly, but only long enough to drop off the Jewel Shards that he possessed, saying that he would no longer be needing them, and by rights they belonged to his nee-san. They were the last two pieces needed to complete the Shikon no Tama. With that, he left once again, no one the wiser about his excursion with Sesshomaru. He only stated that their task went well, and that he and the Youkai Lord would soon return.
No one knew what task they had to complete that took so long, although some suspected. No one asked and no one cared to know. None said anything to Kagome. It was not necessary for her to know. All that mattered was that those who had harmed her, had been brought to justice and could never harm her or anyone else ever again.
Several days before the two youkai returned, Inuyasha took Kagome back to her own era so that her mother, Ojii-san and brother could see that she was healed and doing well. It was late afternoon, the sun slowly sinking in the west, and a light breeze bringing with it the many fragrances that spoke of Modern Day Tokyo. As it happened that while they visited, Ayumi and her parents had just stopped by.
When they saw Kagome walk into the house with Inuyasha, both of Ayumi's parent hung their heads in shame. They still felt guilty for what had happened to Kagome. Had they just listen to Ayumi's pleas to take the girl home in the family car, none of the events of those two nights would have ever occurred. They had never been the kind to take much interest in the activities of others, or cared much for what others did. They were to busy paying attention to their own business, their careers, they own aims to notice what was important around them.
When their daughter had been taken by the 'Nightwalkers', and knowing that no one had ever been rescued from them, they awoke to a world that they had never known existed. Unfortunately, it was to find that their indifference and negligence had cost both girls more than any onna should ever have to pay. Nothing they could do could take that back, and they knew that if they had been more responsible, things would have been a lot different.
Ayumi was just so glad to see her best friend. She had not seen her since she had disappeared that night. She had learned from her folks that Kagome had been kidnapped and injured, and she had found out how badly from Kagome's mother later, when she herself had been released after two days stay at the hospital. After that, every day she came by the shrine and spent time with Kagome's family.
She helped Daitoku-san with cleaning up around the shrine, offered assistance to Nisou-sama running errands, and helped Souta with his homework since he was still in high school himself. She had begun to fret when she didn't hear from Kagome for over a week, and now standing there looking at her dearest friend, she broke down and cried, as she ran to her and caught her up in a tight hug.
When both girls finally stopped crying and stepped back, Nisou-sama brought out tea and snacks. The Takenouchi's bowed to Kagome and Inuyasha, both apologizing for their inaction, and expressing their deepest gratitude for Inuyasha's aid in rescuing their daughter that night. Both were totally astonished when Kagome hugged them both and let them know that she felt they had nothing to be sorry about.
"What happened was horrible, hai!" she told them. "I would never want to go through the like again. Sometimes the kami desire a thing to happen, however horrible it might be. Because I did go through that experience, Inuyasha came to help me. Because he came, he learned of the 'Nightwalkers'. Because he learned of them, and what they were, he brought back friends and family, who in turn helped to bring them to justice, and freed all those who had been held captive and who might have died otherwise."
"Their horrors were brought to an end, and no one else will have to suffer their activities. Perhaps this even got the authorities to finally do something about the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard', she continued. "At least the end results came out for the best and many girls were helped."
"Actually, we have something to show you, Kagome," said Ojii-san, a smile upon his face bright enough to almost out shine Kagome's best. "Come, both of you and see."
Inuyasha staying close to Kagome and keeping an arm around her waist, walked with her as they all followed her Ojii-san out to the top of the shrine steps. He stopped there and pointed off to the right, where the area known as the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard' had become an unfortunate landmark in the area. What met her eyes, brought fresh tears of joy to her face, and Inuyasha held her close sharing her joy.
Every house, every building, every shack and alley was gone. All that remained was a two by five block vacant lot that even now was host to a large number of huge bulldozers, cranes, and other major equipment. A huge sign could be seen on the corner nearest the shrine, and even from where they all stood, it could clearly be seen that the area had been sponsored by some major corporation for demolition and redevelopment.
To make it even more wonderful, her Ojii-san told her that more than three quarters of the area was going to be turned into a beautiful park, with koi ponds, fountains, flowers, and more. Every foot of it would be lit up at night, and a private security team would keep it safely patrolled at all times. It was dedicated to the Shrine by whoever was handling the development, and even the press could not find out who or what was behind it all.
Suddenly, Kagome grew faint and almost fell in her excitement, but Inuyasha quickly lifted her up and took her back into the house. Everyone followed, anxious for her care, and were just a bit surprised when Inuyasha placed her carefully on the couch but growled when any but her mother, Ayumi, or Mayuki approached her.
"Inuyasha-nii-san," spoke up Souta. "What is wrong? Is Kagome sick? Will she be alright?"
Clamping down on his instincts, knowing that they had kicked in with the other males in the room, he calmed himself and turned to Kagome's Okaa-san.
"She is fine, Nisou-sama. She just got to excited," he told her.
"But she should not have fainted, Inuyasha," said Kagome's mother anxiously. "Surely we should call a doctor...."
He growled at that, and stood closer to Kagome keeping everyone away from her. Again his instincts were taking control. He fought them back, knowing that Kagome's family meant no harm, they just didn't understand.
"Kaede-baa-chan has been attending her. She is fine," he forced out the words, trying not to growl a warning to the other males in the room. "She unexpectedly expended a lot of energy the night that we made the potion that we used on our prey. It is one of the reasons that she is no longer injured from that night. The backwash of her power, not only healed her injuries, but those that my brother experienced as well, while we were linked with her mind. But it exhausted her, because of the sudden power drain. Kaede-baa-chan told her that she should not get too excited in her condition, but the stuff going on out there was too much for her right now."
"Condition?" said Ayumi, concern etched in her every word. "Did she suffer more harm from the 'Nightwalkers' than we thought?"
"Iie," spoke up Ojii-san, trying to carefully choose his words with emphasis. "Mama, we 'males' will leave the room while you speak further to Inuyasha. It will put his instincts at ease, and help you learn what he is trying to find the words to tell you."
He grabbed both Souta and Hidenori and literally dragged them from the room. It had taken the old man a moment to figure out why Inuyasha was not letting anyone near his granddaughter, but when Souta had asked his questions, and Inuyasha had spoke to Kagome's mother instead of to the boy, it clicked in the old man's head what was happening. With that, he took the males from the room, to give the possessive and protective hanyou room to breath. He knew enough to know why Inuyasha was reacting the way he was, and would take the time to enlighten Souta and Hidenori.
Daitoku-sama might be an old coot, his mind might not be as agile as it once was, and others might think he was losing it, but the old man knew a thing or two, especially when it came to hanyou, youkai, and his granddaughter.
"Inuyasha," said Nisou-sama. "Onegai, explain what you mean, 'in her condition'. Is Kagome alright?"
"Hai, Nisou-sama," said the hanyou. He never left Kagome's side, and even now, while more relaxed and no longer growling now that the males had left the room, he held tightly to her hand and refused to let go. "She just needs to rest. Would you have a wet cloth and cool water?"
"I will get one," said Ayumi, who ran immediately to the kitchen to get one. She was back in an instant and Inuyasha nodded his thanks as he used the cloth to bath Kagome's face. As he did, his actions brushed her hair gently and lovingly away from her face, exposing the side of her neck. At the sight of the mark on her, the three women in the room gasped in shock and surprise.
"Inuyasha, what is that on Kagome's neck?" spoke Mrs. Higurashi.
At first the hanyou's ears lay flat to his head, and he hung his head as though in shame, but a moment later, he straightened standing tall, and in pride spoke to the women in the room. "That is my mark. She is my mate, and that mark lets every other youkai and hanyou know not to touch her." he spoke proudly. "It binds us together for life."
"You mean like marriage?" asked Mayuki.
"Iie," he turned to her. "Much more than your marriage. We are bound by heart, blood, body, and soul for eternity. Nothing, not even death itself will ever tear us apart. Even now, I can sense her and if she were not here, but somewhere else, I could find her no matter where she was."
"But why did she faint Inuyasha?" ask Kagome's mother once more, trying hard to no let the frustration and anxiousness she was feeling show. "Onegai. I only wish to understand."
He crouched down next to the couch, and drew Kagome down into his lap. The women in the room watch is awe and wonder as he gently arranged her so that her back was against his chest, and her head leaning on his shoulder. He put his arms around her shielding her in the oversized sleeves of his haori, and rested one hand on her stomach, rubbing soothing circles gently on the firm but smooth flesh beneath her shirt. He nuzzled his mark, deeply inhaling her scent.
A low gentle growl came from the hanyou as he sat there, hold his most precious possession shielded in his protective embrace. To their surprise, Kagome even unconscious, responded to the gentle motion and soothing sound, with a soft growl, almost purr like sound of her own.
Seeming satisfied with her response, the hanyou relaxed with a satisfied sigh, and turned back to the women standing in the room. He looked them each in the eye, and the answered their question, "She carries my pups!"
"Pups, as in child?" asked Kagome's mother, who could feel her knees weaken, and suddenly found a chair conveniently placed when she lost her battle to stay on her feet. A glass of water was shoved into her hand, and a wet cloth was placed on her forehead. It was not until she heard the by now familiar warning growl from the hanyou that she realized her father had come back into the room. It was he that had put the chair behind her, knowing what was coming. Ayumi was the one who gave her the water, and Mayuki had been wiping her face with the cloth.
"You are sure it is yours, and not...no-t...n-ot..." she stammered.
"Hai, it is not from that night," Inuyasha spoke proudly, with complete and inarguable confidence.
"But how can you tell she is expecting Inuyasha-kun?" asked Ayumi. "And how do you know it is yours?"
"I can smell their scent in her blood," he spoke. "If they were not mine, I would know."
"You keep saying, pups and their," spoke up Mayuki. "How many are there?"
"Two," was the simply spoken and proud response.
It was a good thing that gramps had gotten her the chair, or Higurashi-nisou would have fallen in a dead faint. As it was, she was grateful for the support of the chair, and the firm, reassuring hand of her father on her shoulder. In just under two weeks, her daughter, who had gotten, over the last four years, use to dividing her time between two eras, and battling horrors that could only be dreamed of, had been kidnapped, horribly beaten, abused, and violated. She had suffered serious injures that she lay in a hut some five hundred years ago healing from, while her heart's desire, brought her friends forward in time to bring her attackers to justice and freeing the other victims that had been injured by them. Then for almost two weeks, she had not been home, only to come visit, faint and her mother to learn that she was 'mated' and with not one child, but two.
That was a WHOLE lot to swallow in such a short time... Not that she was not happy for her daughter, but she was shocked by all that had transpired in the past couple of weeks. She sat for a while and watched as the hanyou cared for her daughter as she sat in his lap. He growled in warning every time one of the men entered the room, although it was Ojii-san who finally told Souta and Hidenori that if they intended to enter the livingroom while Inuyasha was there, they would have to sit on the floor and stay in place or risk getting the protective hanyou angered.
When he was not growling at the men, he would sit rubbing Kagome's stomach, and a soft growl would eminate from his chest, like a purring sound. Even across the room, Nisou-sama found it to be a soothing sound and could see that it comforted her daughter. Her daughter who had been through so very much for so very long. All those years of trying to live two lives so widely diverse, and to find that she had powers that were unheard of in today's society.
She knew that Kagome's experiences in Sengoku Jidai would one day take her away from this time. With all of the experiences and adventures that the girl had faced during the last four years, things in today's era just didn't offer any challenge or appeal to her any more.
For a while, Higurashi-nisou had hoped that maybe Kagome would develop feelings for that boy, Hojo. But it was more than obvious that Hojo was just...too...well...nice, for Kagome. Not that nice was a bad thing, just that for Kagome, it was dull and boring. As time progressed and their adventures became more and more involved and even more dangerous, it was apparent that there was something between Kagome and Inuyasha that bound their destinies inextricably to one another.
In all of their experiences, and encounters with youkai, hanyou, and even ningen, Kagome had never been in such a horrible experience as the one she had suffered in her own time. It was that week, after Inuyasha, his brother, and friends had left the shrine that Nisou-sama and Daitoku-sama had finally sat down and realized that Kagome was no longer of this era. This was no longer her time.
Her mother, Ojii-san, and brother were here, but her true family was in Sengoku Jidai. Her heart was 500 years in the past, and it was where she truly belonged. Her soulmate, having finally found the courage to give his heart to her, now sat in the Higurashi livingroom protectively caring for her daughter in ways that no man of this time would even consider. It was obvious that Inuyasha's efforts had helped Kagome to recover from more than just her physical injuries of that night. For that and so much more Nisou-sama was happy and proud of her daughter, and would forever be grateful to the hanyou that they had welcomed into their home, and who had become such an important member of their family.
"Are you alright now, mama," asked Daitoku, with a gleam in his old eyes.
"Hai, father. It just took a moment to sink in, is all," replied his daughter.
"Nisou-sama," spoke up Inuyasha. "Besides visiting you today, to let you know that Kagome is alright and about the pups, we came for another reason."
"This will be Kagome's last visit through the old well," spoke up Ojii-san, before anyone could say a word. "Is that not correct?"
Everyone in the room, except Kagome, gasped at those words. Inuyasha because he didn't understand how the old man knew, and everyone else because they thought that the old man had finally gone around the bend.
"Hai, Daitoku-sama," said Inuyasha in reply.
"NANI?!?!?!" was the reply from everyone around the room. The clamour of noise becoming too much for sensitive ears, Inuyasha growled in frustration and warning.
*GGGgggrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!*
It had the immediate needed reaction and everyone quieted down. The hanyou turned to everyone and spoke.
"It is not because Kagome doesn't want to be here any more," he said. "It was the Jewel that told her of this. She only found out a couple of days ago."
"The Jewel?" asked Hidenori.
"Hai! The fabled and quite real, 'Shikon no Tama'," Daitoku responded. "You see, Hidenori-san, my granddaughter found out on her fifteenth birthday that she had been born with the Jewel embedded in her body. It was this, and other events that pulled her through the old well and took her back over 500 years ago."
"She is the chosen Guardian of the Jewel of Four Souls, and was fated to go back in time to finish what her predecessor, Kikyou, had not done in her lifetime. She is a Miko, Hidenori-san. Something that is unheard of, except as legends, in this time. Someone who would be ridiculed if she even let others know of her abilities." At the old man's words, the others watched Inuyasha, as he gently tugged at a chain that until now, no one had seen around Kagome's neck. From it hung a large pink pearlescent jewel that seemed to pulse with a life of its own.
Kagome's grandfather continued, as they all gazed in wonder at the obviously pulsing, breathing jewel, now resting on the unconscious girl's chest, "For the past four years, she has been travelling back in time, searching for the shards of the Shikon no Tama and bringing justice to the Feudal Era. I knew that it was only a matter of time, before the souls trapped within the jewel closed off the old well once more. It would not be a good thing for it to remain open more than was necessary for my granddaughter to complete her task."
"The only question that remained to her, was whether she would choose to live in this time, or in Sengoku Jidai. The only thing that was holding her back from making that decision was whether or not someone gave her a reason to want to stay in the past," the old man said with a knowing smile as he looked at the hanyou, possessively holding his granddaughter.
"Hai, Daitoku-san," agreed Inuyasha, surprised that the old man understood so well. He was not sure how to tell everyone, and Kagome had been worried herself, but when she had told Inuyasha what Midoriko had said, they both knew that her family had to be told.
"Kagome made the final wish on the jewel. In the process of completing her wish, it will fuse with her body. This will occur once we return to my...our...time. Not like it was when she was born, but actually becoming part of her. When Kouga gave us the last two shards, Kagome fused them back into the rest of the jewel. While this was all taking place, she was in a trance, and Midoriko spoke to her then."
"They both agreed that the old well could not be kept open, but Midoriko gave Kagome one last passage to come and tell all of you, of our mating and her decision to stay in the past," the hanyou stated.
"What was her wish?" asked Nisou-sama.
"She would only tell me part of it," Inuyasha said. "She wished for all of the victims of the 'Nightwalkers' to have complete physical and mental recoveries, the souls of those who passed because of their vile acts, to find peace, and for the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard' to be torn down and replaced. Replaced by a park.....full of fountains, koi ponds, flowers, and trees."
At his words, all were silent. It was just too much of a coincidence that all of that is exactly what Ojii-san had said at the top of the shrine steps as they looked over the construction of the old site. No wonder she had fainted in her excitement and surprise.
"Well, she should know that the news reports of the 'Nightwalkers', have shown that all of the six who were left here, have confessed to every crime they ever committed. In fact," spoke Hidenori, "they admitted to crimes that no one ever knew they had committed. All begged for their punishment, one even asked for the death sentence. He was denied, however."
"What punishment were they given?" asked Inuyasha, curious as to how Kagome's time handled the situation.
"You saw them a short time ago, Inuyasha," Hidenori answered. "They are six of the men working on the new development project for the park. Some say it is a miracle, others of course are not so sure, but it seems that all of the girls not only recovered from their injuries with no scars, or deformities whatsoever, but each and everyone of them asked to see their attackers...alone."
Ayumi's father continued, "The public was in a furor at this, and the law was going to forbid it, but someone and no one knows for sure who, stepped forward and in a private meeting with the local authorities, convinced the courts to grant the girls' wishes. Only the girls, the six men, the judge, and whoever is responsible for the development of the park out there, know what took place in that meeting."
"What is known, is that the men are to work on the development project, in the process learning a useful skilled trade. They are, also, assigned to pay part of their earnings to the twenty-six girls as part of the debt they owe them for their crimes to them. The girls chose to have the money put into a trust fund which is being used to form a program to help girls of all ages, all over the country, who have been through similar situations, and it is getting full backing by the corporation that is developing the park," spoke up Mayuki.
"Are they not afraid that those fiends will revert back to their old ways?" asked Inuyasha. Kagome shifted a bit, and Inuyasha could tell she would awaken soon, as her heartbeat quickened.
"That was what much of the public and the courts stated as their arguments in the matter," said Mayuki. "But the girls were adamant, and apparently certain promises were made between whoever the corporation is that is building the park and the public officials who were responsible for trying the case. In cases such as this, most such criminals would have been given life sentences for their crimes or executed depending on the perceived severity of the crime."
Ayumi's mother continued, "This case has been totally unprecedented, in that the victims were the ones permitted to choose the punishment. In fact, oddly enough, rumour has it that one of the victims and one of the men have taken to each other, and begun dating. But what is most surprising is the unconfirmed rumours that all six of the men, are actually experiencing a greater punishment than any law could possibly devise."
"Though no one will say for sure, it is said that all six are in the care of psychologists, as they are none of them able to sleep in peace. The press has been trying to find out more, but I have it on good authority through some personal connections that they have been recorded in their sleep, screaming in pain and even showing signs of injuries similar to those found on their victims. It is claimed that every day they drive themselves until they are too tired to stand, and fairly collapse in a dead faint, from exhaustion," stated Hidenori.
"Even then, they still do not rest, for it is said that they all relive the horror of one of their victims, experiencing everything that they did to her, as though they were in her shoes. Their shame and horror of their own actions are said to be the driving reason behind the nightmares, by their now understanding of what their victims suffered by their own hands. No one can explain it, not even the doctors. The best they can come up with is that they are so ashamed of their actions that the guilt as driven them to empathize with their victims, although even the doctors truly do not believe this to be the case." Hidenori concluded.
The wicked smile that appeared on Inuyasha's face sent a shuddering chill down the backs of all in the room who saw it. "Then your doctors are not as smart or knowledgable as the appear to be," was the hanyou's simple statement. It was spoken with complete assurance and confidence, making all in the room wonder, but no one was sure whether they had the courage to ask.
"You see," he continued in a tone that was almost sinister to the ear. "just before we left the victims and our prey to your police, we gave each of those 'things' a few drops of a special potion."
"What kind of potion Inuyasha," spoke up Ayumi, her couriousity overriding any fear she might have had. Inuyasha was special to her best friend, or she would not have accepted him. It was because of him and Kagome's other friends that she and the others were saved from their worst nightmares come to life. She could not find it in herself to continue to be afraid of Inuyasha.
"Just before we came through the well to 'hunt'," Inuyasha answered, looking Ayumi right in the eye, "Sesshomaru and I linked minds with Kagome. His Chief Healer, mixed a special potion called "Smitciv Rorroh". The base of it is simple common everyday herbs, however, by linking to the mind of one who has been victimized by their assailant, the essence of their nightmares cause by their assailant is combined with the potion. Once it is given to the fiends that caused the horrors for their captives, they are cursed to live their victims pain and suffering as though it were their own."
"You mean," spoke up Mayuki, "that every time one of the vile villians that hurt Ayumi and the others, closes their eyes, or goes to sleep, they are forced to experience what Kagome was put through, as through they were in her shoes?"
"Hai," said the hanyou, "Every cut, crack of bone, scratch, punch...everything that they did to Kagome, they will spend the rest of their lives reliving. That is why they push themselves to the point of collapse. They are afraid of their own actions, which now haunt their dreams."
"What of the leader of the group?" spoke up Ojii-san, "What happened to him?"
"I do not know," spoke Inuyasha, "Sesshomaru had special plans for him, and he is not one to reveal his designs if he chooses to keep to himself. You can rest assure, however, that whatever it is that Sesshomaru did to him, makes what the other six are going through seem like a quiet walk in the woods."
At that, Inuyasha gave a short, but definitely evil laugh. One that more than made everyone else shudder in fear. They didn't want to know what happened to the leader, and were not going to ask after him anymore. As for the six men, all that counted was that they would now pay for their crimes in a way that would remind them for the rest of their lives just how vile their acts were. And if it left them marked for the rest of their days, then it was by their own design.
All present knew that the leader of the 'Nightwalkers' was not taken by the police that night. All there knew that it was because he was taken into the past by Inuyasha's brother. At the cold and chilling look of hatred that had graced the face of the Youkai Lord that night before they had jumped into the old well to return home, those that saw almost fainted at the thought of being in the hands of such as he and not on his good side.
Inuyasha felt Kagome stirring and she began to awaken from her faint. He finished wiping her face with the wet cloth that Ayumi had provided, and nuzzled his mark on her neck, the soft growl soothing her and making her feel more at ease. The others in the room watching the interaction were touched beyond words at the loving attention that the hanyou gave to the onna he held to his chest. Such love and devotion was a rarity and Higurashi-nisou felt much more at ease knowing that her daughter was in good hands.
"Mama?" Kagome's soft voice whispered. Kaede had told her about her condition, and had advised her to take it easy, at least for a while longer. She had suffered a quite a bit of blood loss after her attack, and some of her injures, still pained her a little, even though healed because of the unexpected wave of power that she had given off in the hut. But her biggest problem was that very release of power.
It had come on because of the emotional turmoil that had surfaced with Inuyasha and Sesshomaru linked to her mind. It was one that no one had expected, and that she had not had any control over. It had been immense, and the sudden release had left her weaker than normal, and Kaede had said it would be quite awhile before she would be back to full strength.
She looked up at her mother, at the moment unwilling to leave the comfort of her mate's arms. He was her strength and safety. He was her heart, and held her soul. Looking into her mother's eyes, she could see the understanding that she had so hoped would be there.
"Mama, I am sorry?" she said, tears starting to run down her face. She still had the nightmares, and knew that she would for a while to come. On some level, she blamed herself for the events of that night, and some how felt that perhaps her mother did, too. On top of that, she now was coming home to only tell her mother that she was an expectant mother, essentially married, and would be leaving home for good now. Would her mother truly understand?
Inuyasha hugged her protectively, although not growling it was clear that he would not stand for anyone hurting Kagome, either physically or emotionally. She didn't deserve it, and not even her mother would be allowed such grace.
Higurashi-nisou seemed to understand what her daughter meant by her words. She nodded to her and smiled, "It is alright Kagome. There is nothing to be sorry for. None of it was your fault, and if you are happy with Inuyasha, who am I to stand in your way?"
"You don't blame me?" Kagome whispered, the true root of her fear obvious in her voice.
"Iie, my daughter," spoke her Okaa-san. "I could never blame you. What happened was never your fault, and you were right. Fate decided, although I wish it were otherwise that you be where you were that night. It was meant to be, so that twenty-six lost souls could be free and seven misguided beings brought to justice."
Kagome sighed in relief, and tears that she had fought to hold back trickled down her face. When he felt her trying to get up, Inuyasha let her go, although he followed close behind, unwilling to leave he side for a moment. Ojii-san understood his instinctive need to protect his mate and unborn pups, and made sure to signal Souta, and Hidenori to stay seated for now. Until Inuyasha was sure that no one would try to hurt Kagome, his instincts would override his more rational common sense.
Kagome's mother stood as well, and both onna hugged and held each other in a long needed and healing embrace, Kagome happy with her mother's understanding and approval, and her mother with her daughter's safety, healing, and happiness.
"Ojii-san, Souta, and I will miss you very much, but not so much as I believe you will miss us," said Higurashi-nisou.
"Hai, mama," cried Kagome into her shoulder. "I already miss you all, and my friends, too. I have been told, however that I will get to see you all again one day."
"You had better keep that promise," spoke up her Ojii-san, who turned when everyone looked at him strangely. "Nani? I want to see my grandchildren. So sue me!" Everyone smiled at that, as Kagome went and hugged her Ojii-san.
Kagome looked at the old priest, who was not only her grandfather, but had been like a father to her and Souta over the years. She had come to respect him and his love of history, especially with her experiences in Sengoku Jidai. "I promise," she said to her Ojii-san, smiling lovingly at him, "you will get to see your grandchildren, although by the time you see them, you will not be able to hold them as you did me and Souta when we were born."
Despite the youthful horrors of being hugged by his sister, Souta actually welcomed his sister's embrace. The past week's events had truly scared him on a level that the young boy had never considered before. Yes, he was a teen, and doing well in high school, but the reality that someone had nearly killed his sister hit him hard. He was reminded of his own mortality, as well as the fact that Kagome would very likely one day disappear down that old well, and might never come back.
Inuyasha was not only his hero, in more ways than one, but his self-chosen nii-san, and he didn't look forward to the day when he might not get to see him anymore. It all added up for Souta during this past week, and he was finding it hard to cope with, though he tried not to let it show. When Kagome gave him a hug, he found himself not only returning the embrace, but the tears that he had fought all week to hide, finally broke free. He cried, and while he didn't understand why, he was not ashamed that there were others to see him do so.
Ayumi understood, not only from the shared experience that both her and her best friend had gone through, but from the point of view of a young onna looking for that something that every young girl grows up looking for, hoping for, and praying that they will eventually find it. Kagome was one of the lucky one's on many levels.
She had a man...well hanyou, who loved her and protected her with his life. They loved each other dearly, and would risk everything they had for the safety and protection of the other. Now, Kagome was embarking on a journey together that would include a family, home, and friends that Ayumi could only imagine. She only hoped that one day, she would get to see her friend again, and like Kagome's Ojii-san, she wanted to make sure that the two of them promised to come back and visit.
But Ayumi understood, as well that Kagome and Inuyasha had been through very hard times. Adventures that Ayumi could barely imagine, let alone understand. The love that the two obviously held for each other had come at a great price, but was one that they both seemed willing to pay again, if it meant them being together even beyond the Realm of the Dead. Kagome hugged her dear friend, both girls sharing a moment that they would cherish for a long time to come.
"I will find a way to tell Yura, and Eri, and Hojo will just have to understand," she told Kagome. "It is not like you never told Hojo that he was not the man for you. Besides, Yura, Eri, and I should never have pushed him off on you, trying to set you up with a guy you obviously didn't want."
"Your hearts were all in the right place," said Kagome, "but nothing, not even Hojo, can compare to what I have in Sengoku Jidai. He was...is a good friend, but I could never think of him as anything more than that."
"I understand," spoke Ayumi.
It was late, but this was to be the last night that Kagome would be home for at least 500 years. So with the promise of loads of ramen to take home, if they stayed the night, Inuyasha consented. Mayuki and Higurashi-nisou went to the kitchen and set about preparing a dinner that was more of a feast. It was more than just a farewell dinner, it was to celebrate Inuyasha's and Kagome's mating, the successful ending to the 'Nightwalkers' intrusions, and the impending birth of the mated couples' pups.
Knowing that Inuyasha tended to be impatient when it came to things like going back through the well, Ojii-san convinced Hidenori to take Souta to the store to pick up the promised ramen that evening rather than wait for the next day. There was the convenience of a nearby 24 hours store that had noticed the rather high demand for ramen it the area. Of course they were not totally aware that most of the demand came from one source, but then, all that mattered to the store was that they needed to keep more in stock to meet the demand.
Shortly before dinner was due to be served, the two returned with an entire car loaded to overflowing with ever case of ramen that they could glean from the store, even to having had the stock clerk go into the back and pull out whatever they still had not put on the shelf. Hidenori paid for the whole lot, saying that it was the least he could do, to in some small way repay the hanyou who had rescued his only daughter.
The women laughed, while laying out dinner, as the men all took the mountain load of ramen, and stacked it inside the well. There was barely enough room for the other supplies that Kagome was taking back with her, or for that matter, themselves. This way, when Kagome and Inuyasha were ready to leave the next day, the ramen would go with them as they passed through the old well for the last time. All got a kick at the almost worshipful, drooling look of the hanyou as he eagerly eyed the mountain of his favorite food.
It was a cheerful, and yet solemn group that sat to dinner in the Higurashi household that night. The food was good and plentiful, and the company warm and comfortable. Although there was some sadness at this being their last visit, all were warmed by the idea that they would not be parted forever, and would someday see each other again. For those in the Modern Era, it would be just a matter of days or even weeks, but the for couple going through the well for the last time, it would be hundreds of years.
Inuyasha and Kagome spent a peaceful night, enjoying the safe haven of her bedroom. It would be the only time that they got to share in complete safety, an intimate moment without fear of danger or intrusion for a long time to come. They made the most of the moment, and thrilled in all that they could enjoy of their last time in this small room of the Higurashi Shrine, for a long time to come.
The morning dawned bright and promised a warm and sunny day. The Takenouchi's had left late the night before, but had promised to drop by early the next morning to see Kagome and Inuyasha off on their last trip through the old well.
Accept for the Takenouchi's and Kagome's own family, none of her friends had been aware that she had being one of the victims of the 'Nightwalkers'. While Ayumi had promised to explain to her friends Kagome's sudden disappearance, she was aware that there was much that she could not tell them about where their friend really was going. She could only tell them that she was going on a long journey and would one day return.
Kagome regretted not being able to say goodbye to the rest of her friends, but Inuyasha reminded her that this journey was not going to be forever. She would one day see them all again, it was just that they would find a very changed and quite different Kagome than the one that they were used to.
Kagome clung to the idea that she would see her mother, brother and Ojii-san again, as well as her friends. Truly this was not goodbye, it was just so long for now. With a last round of hugging and tearful kisses, the two stepped to the rim of the old well, and leaped into the past for the last time.
Dictionary
Baba - Old Woman, Witch, Shit, Bullshit
Baka - Idiot
Chikushou - Damn
Daitoku - Priest
Fujo - Sorceress
Fukurou - Owl
Hanyou - Half Demon
Higurashi-daitoku - Roughly: Priest Higurashi...I have chosen to use this instead of a name, as no name is ever cited in either the anime or the manga. Kagome's grandfather, and name used by those not of the family.
Higurashi-nisou - Roughly: Priestess Higurashi...I have chosen to use this instead of a name, as no name is ever cited in either the anime or the manga. Kagome's mother, and name used by those not of the family.
Hinba - Mare
Houshi - Monk
Inu - Dog
Joshi - Women
Kinmouno shishi - Golden-haired Lion
Kitsune - Fox Demon
Kobura - Cobra
Koruto - Colt
Kuromiko - Dark Miko
Miko - Shrine Maiden
Neko - Cat
Nisou - Priestess
Ojii-san - Grandfather
Ojika - Stag
Okaa-san - Mother
Onna - Woman
Ookami - Wolf
Osuuma - Stallion
Oushi - Bull
Red Dragon - Ru-doragon
Sama - Lady or Lord - respectively
Seiyuuki - Monkey
Shika - Deer
Shikon no Kakera - Shikon Shards
Shikon no Tama - Jewel of Four Souls
Shishi - Lion
Taijiya - Demon Exterminator
Taiyoukai - Demon Lord
Youkai - Demon
===============================
by Vyncent
**This story contains violence, sexual content and rape! Some of the contents of this story are graphic. You are WARNED**
Disclaimer: I do now own Inuyasha, nor any of the associated characters. But it ain't because I don't want or wish to do so.
Chapter 34 - I Can Never Return, but I Will Be Back...
It was almost a fortnight before anyone heard much from Sesshomaru and Kouga. Kouga had shown up briefly, but only long enough to drop off the Jewel Shards that he possessed, saying that he would no longer be needing them, and by rights they belonged to his nee-san. They were the last two pieces needed to complete the Shikon no Tama. With that, he left once again, no one the wiser about his excursion with Sesshomaru. He only stated that their task went well, and that he and the Youkai Lord would soon return.
No one knew what task they had to complete that took so long, although some suspected. No one asked and no one cared to know. None said anything to Kagome. It was not necessary for her to know. All that mattered was that those who had harmed her, had been brought to justice and could never harm her or anyone else ever again.
Several days before the two youkai returned, Inuyasha took Kagome back to her own era so that her mother, Ojii-san and brother could see that she was healed and doing well. It was late afternoon, the sun slowly sinking in the west, and a light breeze bringing with it the many fragrances that spoke of Modern Day Tokyo. As it happened that while they visited, Ayumi and her parents had just stopped by.
When they saw Kagome walk into the house with Inuyasha, both of Ayumi's parent hung their heads in shame. They still felt guilty for what had happened to Kagome. Had they just listen to Ayumi's pleas to take the girl home in the family car, none of the events of those two nights would have ever occurred. They had never been the kind to take much interest in the activities of others, or cared much for what others did. They were to busy paying attention to their own business, their careers, they own aims to notice what was important around them.
When their daughter had been taken by the 'Nightwalkers', and knowing that no one had ever been rescued from them, they awoke to a world that they had never known existed. Unfortunately, it was to find that their indifference and negligence had cost both girls more than any onna should ever have to pay. Nothing they could do could take that back, and they knew that if they had been more responsible, things would have been a lot different.
Ayumi was just so glad to see her best friend. She had not seen her since she had disappeared that night. She had learned from her folks that Kagome had been kidnapped and injured, and she had found out how badly from Kagome's mother later, when she herself had been released after two days stay at the hospital. After that, every day she came by the shrine and spent time with Kagome's family.
She helped Daitoku-san with cleaning up around the shrine, offered assistance to Nisou-sama running errands, and helped Souta with his homework since he was still in high school himself. She had begun to fret when she didn't hear from Kagome for over a week, and now standing there looking at her dearest friend, she broke down and cried, as she ran to her and caught her up in a tight hug.
When both girls finally stopped crying and stepped back, Nisou-sama brought out tea and snacks. The Takenouchi's bowed to Kagome and Inuyasha, both apologizing for their inaction, and expressing their deepest gratitude for Inuyasha's aid in rescuing their daughter that night. Both were totally astonished when Kagome hugged them both and let them know that she felt they had nothing to be sorry about.
"What happened was horrible, hai!" she told them. "I would never want to go through the like again. Sometimes the kami desire a thing to happen, however horrible it might be. Because I did go through that experience, Inuyasha came to help me. Because he came, he learned of the 'Nightwalkers'. Because he learned of them, and what they were, he brought back friends and family, who in turn helped to bring them to justice, and freed all those who had been held captive and who might have died otherwise."
"Their horrors were brought to an end, and no one else will have to suffer their activities. Perhaps this even got the authorities to finally do something about the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard', she continued. "At least the end results came out for the best and many girls were helped."
"Actually, we have something to show you, Kagome," said Ojii-san, a smile upon his face bright enough to almost out shine Kagome's best. "Come, both of you and see."
Inuyasha staying close to Kagome and keeping an arm around her waist, walked with her as they all followed her Ojii-san out to the top of the shrine steps. He stopped there and pointed off to the right, where the area known as the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard' had become an unfortunate landmark in the area. What met her eyes, brought fresh tears of joy to her face, and Inuyasha held her close sharing her joy.
Every house, every building, every shack and alley was gone. All that remained was a two by five block vacant lot that even now was host to a large number of huge bulldozers, cranes, and other major equipment. A huge sign could be seen on the corner nearest the shrine, and even from where they all stood, it could clearly be seen that the area had been sponsored by some major corporation for demolition and redevelopment.
To make it even more wonderful, her Ojii-san told her that more than three quarters of the area was going to be turned into a beautiful park, with koi ponds, fountains, flowers, and more. Every foot of it would be lit up at night, and a private security team would keep it safely patrolled at all times. It was dedicated to the Shrine by whoever was handling the development, and even the press could not find out who or what was behind it all.
Suddenly, Kagome grew faint and almost fell in her excitement, but Inuyasha quickly lifted her up and took her back into the house. Everyone followed, anxious for her care, and were just a bit surprised when Inuyasha placed her carefully on the couch but growled when any but her mother, Ayumi, or Mayuki approached her.
"Inuyasha-nii-san," spoke up Souta. "What is wrong? Is Kagome sick? Will she be alright?"
Clamping down on his instincts, knowing that they had kicked in with the other males in the room, he calmed himself and turned to Kagome's Okaa-san.
"She is fine, Nisou-sama. She just got to excited," he told her.
"But she should not have fainted, Inuyasha," said Kagome's mother anxiously. "Surely we should call a doctor...."
He growled at that, and stood closer to Kagome keeping everyone away from her. Again his instincts were taking control. He fought them back, knowing that Kagome's family meant no harm, they just didn't understand.
"Kaede-baa-chan has been attending her. She is fine," he forced out the words, trying not to growl a warning to the other males in the room. "She unexpectedly expended a lot of energy the night that we made the potion that we used on our prey. It is one of the reasons that she is no longer injured from that night. The backwash of her power, not only healed her injuries, but those that my brother experienced as well, while we were linked with her mind. But it exhausted her, because of the sudden power drain. Kaede-baa-chan told her that she should not get too excited in her condition, but the stuff going on out there was too much for her right now."
"Condition?" said Ayumi, concern etched in her every word. "Did she suffer more harm from the 'Nightwalkers' than we thought?"
"Iie," spoke up Ojii-san, trying to carefully choose his words with emphasis. "Mama, we 'males' will leave the room while you speak further to Inuyasha. It will put his instincts at ease, and help you learn what he is trying to find the words to tell you."
He grabbed both Souta and Hidenori and literally dragged them from the room. It had taken the old man a moment to figure out why Inuyasha was not letting anyone near his granddaughter, but when Souta had asked his questions, and Inuyasha had spoke to Kagome's mother instead of to the boy, it clicked in the old man's head what was happening. With that, he took the males from the room, to give the possessive and protective hanyou room to breath. He knew enough to know why Inuyasha was reacting the way he was, and would take the time to enlighten Souta and Hidenori.
Daitoku-sama might be an old coot, his mind might not be as agile as it once was, and others might think he was losing it, but the old man knew a thing or two, especially when it came to hanyou, youkai, and his granddaughter.
"Inuyasha," said Nisou-sama. "Onegai, explain what you mean, 'in her condition'. Is Kagome alright?"
"Hai, Nisou-sama," said the hanyou. He never left Kagome's side, and even now, while more relaxed and no longer growling now that the males had left the room, he held tightly to her hand and refused to let go. "She just needs to rest. Would you have a wet cloth and cool water?"
"I will get one," said Ayumi, who ran immediately to the kitchen to get one. She was back in an instant and Inuyasha nodded his thanks as he used the cloth to bath Kagome's face. As he did, his actions brushed her hair gently and lovingly away from her face, exposing the side of her neck. At the sight of the mark on her, the three women in the room gasped in shock and surprise.
"Inuyasha, what is that on Kagome's neck?" spoke Mrs. Higurashi.
At first the hanyou's ears lay flat to his head, and he hung his head as though in shame, but a moment later, he straightened standing tall, and in pride spoke to the women in the room. "That is my mark. She is my mate, and that mark lets every other youkai and hanyou know not to touch her." he spoke proudly. "It binds us together for life."
"You mean like marriage?" asked Mayuki.
"Iie," he turned to her. "Much more than your marriage. We are bound by heart, blood, body, and soul for eternity. Nothing, not even death itself will ever tear us apart. Even now, I can sense her and if she were not here, but somewhere else, I could find her no matter where she was."
"But why did she faint Inuyasha?" ask Kagome's mother once more, trying hard to no let the frustration and anxiousness she was feeling show. "Onegai. I only wish to understand."
He crouched down next to the couch, and drew Kagome down into his lap. The women in the room watch is awe and wonder as he gently arranged her so that her back was against his chest, and her head leaning on his shoulder. He put his arms around her shielding her in the oversized sleeves of his haori, and rested one hand on her stomach, rubbing soothing circles gently on the firm but smooth flesh beneath her shirt. He nuzzled his mark, deeply inhaling her scent.
A low gentle growl came from the hanyou as he sat there, hold his most precious possession shielded in his protective embrace. To their surprise, Kagome even unconscious, responded to the gentle motion and soothing sound, with a soft growl, almost purr like sound of her own.
Seeming satisfied with her response, the hanyou relaxed with a satisfied sigh, and turned back to the women standing in the room. He looked them each in the eye, and the answered their question, "She carries my pups!"
"Pups, as in child?" asked Kagome's mother, who could feel her knees weaken, and suddenly found a chair conveniently placed when she lost her battle to stay on her feet. A glass of water was shoved into her hand, and a wet cloth was placed on her forehead. It was not until she heard the by now familiar warning growl from the hanyou that she realized her father had come back into the room. It was he that had put the chair behind her, knowing what was coming. Ayumi was the one who gave her the water, and Mayuki had been wiping her face with the cloth.
"You are sure it is yours, and not...no-t...n-ot..." she stammered.
"Hai, it is not from that night," Inuyasha spoke proudly, with complete and inarguable confidence.
"But how can you tell she is expecting Inuyasha-kun?" asked Ayumi. "And how do you know it is yours?"
"I can smell their scent in her blood," he spoke. "If they were not mine, I would know."
"You keep saying, pups and their," spoke up Mayuki. "How many are there?"
"Two," was the simply spoken and proud response.
It was a good thing that gramps had gotten her the chair, or Higurashi-nisou would have fallen in a dead faint. As it was, she was grateful for the support of the chair, and the firm, reassuring hand of her father on her shoulder. In just under two weeks, her daughter, who had gotten, over the last four years, use to dividing her time between two eras, and battling horrors that could only be dreamed of, had been kidnapped, horribly beaten, abused, and violated. She had suffered serious injures that she lay in a hut some five hundred years ago healing from, while her heart's desire, brought her friends forward in time to bring her attackers to justice and freeing the other victims that had been injured by them. Then for almost two weeks, she had not been home, only to come visit, faint and her mother to learn that she was 'mated' and with not one child, but two.
That was a WHOLE lot to swallow in such a short time... Not that she was not happy for her daughter, but she was shocked by all that had transpired in the past couple of weeks. She sat for a while and watched as the hanyou cared for her daughter as she sat in his lap. He growled in warning every time one of the men entered the room, although it was Ojii-san who finally told Souta and Hidenori that if they intended to enter the livingroom while Inuyasha was there, they would have to sit on the floor and stay in place or risk getting the protective hanyou angered.
When he was not growling at the men, he would sit rubbing Kagome's stomach, and a soft growl would eminate from his chest, like a purring sound. Even across the room, Nisou-sama found it to be a soothing sound and could see that it comforted her daughter. Her daughter who had been through so very much for so very long. All those years of trying to live two lives so widely diverse, and to find that she had powers that were unheard of in today's society.
She knew that Kagome's experiences in Sengoku Jidai would one day take her away from this time. With all of the experiences and adventures that the girl had faced during the last four years, things in today's era just didn't offer any challenge or appeal to her any more.
For a while, Higurashi-nisou had hoped that maybe Kagome would develop feelings for that boy, Hojo. But it was more than obvious that Hojo was just...too...well...nice, for Kagome. Not that nice was a bad thing, just that for Kagome, it was dull and boring. As time progressed and their adventures became more and more involved and even more dangerous, it was apparent that there was something between Kagome and Inuyasha that bound their destinies inextricably to one another.
In all of their experiences, and encounters with youkai, hanyou, and even ningen, Kagome had never been in such a horrible experience as the one she had suffered in her own time. It was that week, after Inuyasha, his brother, and friends had left the shrine that Nisou-sama and Daitoku-sama had finally sat down and realized that Kagome was no longer of this era. This was no longer her time.
Her mother, Ojii-san, and brother were here, but her true family was in Sengoku Jidai. Her heart was 500 years in the past, and it was where she truly belonged. Her soulmate, having finally found the courage to give his heart to her, now sat in the Higurashi livingroom protectively caring for her daughter in ways that no man of this time would even consider. It was obvious that Inuyasha's efforts had helped Kagome to recover from more than just her physical injuries of that night. For that and so much more Nisou-sama was happy and proud of her daughter, and would forever be grateful to the hanyou that they had welcomed into their home, and who had become such an important member of their family.
"Are you alright now, mama," asked Daitoku, with a gleam in his old eyes.
"Hai, father. It just took a moment to sink in, is all," replied his daughter.
"Nisou-sama," spoke up Inuyasha. "Besides visiting you today, to let you know that Kagome is alright and about the pups, we came for another reason."
"This will be Kagome's last visit through the old well," spoke up Ojii-san, before anyone could say a word. "Is that not correct?"
Everyone in the room, except Kagome, gasped at those words. Inuyasha because he didn't understand how the old man knew, and everyone else because they thought that the old man had finally gone around the bend.
"Hai, Daitoku-sama," said Inuyasha in reply.
"NANI?!?!?!" was the reply from everyone around the room. The clamour of noise becoming too much for sensitive ears, Inuyasha growled in frustration and warning.
*GGGgggrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!*
It had the immediate needed reaction and everyone quieted down. The hanyou turned to everyone and spoke.
"It is not because Kagome doesn't want to be here any more," he said. "It was the Jewel that told her of this. She only found out a couple of days ago."
"The Jewel?" asked Hidenori.
"Hai! The fabled and quite real, 'Shikon no Tama'," Daitoku responded. "You see, Hidenori-san, my granddaughter found out on her fifteenth birthday that she had been born with the Jewel embedded in her body. It was this, and other events that pulled her through the old well and took her back over 500 years ago."
"She is the chosen Guardian of the Jewel of Four Souls, and was fated to go back in time to finish what her predecessor, Kikyou, had not done in her lifetime. She is a Miko, Hidenori-san. Something that is unheard of, except as legends, in this time. Someone who would be ridiculed if she even let others know of her abilities." At the old man's words, the others watched Inuyasha, as he gently tugged at a chain that until now, no one had seen around Kagome's neck. From it hung a large pink pearlescent jewel that seemed to pulse with a life of its own.
Kagome's grandfather continued, as they all gazed in wonder at the obviously pulsing, breathing jewel, now resting on the unconscious girl's chest, "For the past four years, she has been travelling back in time, searching for the shards of the Shikon no Tama and bringing justice to the Feudal Era. I knew that it was only a matter of time, before the souls trapped within the jewel closed off the old well once more. It would not be a good thing for it to remain open more than was necessary for my granddaughter to complete her task."
"The only question that remained to her, was whether she would choose to live in this time, or in Sengoku Jidai. The only thing that was holding her back from making that decision was whether or not someone gave her a reason to want to stay in the past," the old man said with a knowing smile as he looked at the hanyou, possessively holding his granddaughter.
"Hai, Daitoku-san," agreed Inuyasha, surprised that the old man understood so well. He was not sure how to tell everyone, and Kagome had been worried herself, but when she had told Inuyasha what Midoriko had said, they both knew that her family had to be told.
"Kagome made the final wish on the jewel. In the process of completing her wish, it will fuse with her body. This will occur once we return to my...our...time. Not like it was when she was born, but actually becoming part of her. When Kouga gave us the last two shards, Kagome fused them back into the rest of the jewel. While this was all taking place, she was in a trance, and Midoriko spoke to her then."
"They both agreed that the old well could not be kept open, but Midoriko gave Kagome one last passage to come and tell all of you, of our mating and her decision to stay in the past," the hanyou stated.
"What was her wish?" asked Nisou-sama.
"She would only tell me part of it," Inuyasha said. "She wished for all of the victims of the 'Nightwalkers' to have complete physical and mental recoveries, the souls of those who passed because of their vile acts, to find peace, and for the 'Nightwalkers' Graveyard' to be torn down and replaced. Replaced by a park.....full of fountains, koi ponds, flowers, and trees."
At his words, all were silent. It was just too much of a coincidence that all of that is exactly what Ojii-san had said at the top of the shrine steps as they looked over the construction of the old site. No wonder she had fainted in her excitement and surprise.
"Well, she should know that the news reports of the 'Nightwalkers', have shown that all of the six who were left here, have confessed to every crime they ever committed. In fact," spoke Hidenori, "they admitted to crimes that no one ever knew they had committed. All begged for their punishment, one even asked for the death sentence. He was denied, however."
"What punishment were they given?" asked Inuyasha, curious as to how Kagome's time handled the situation.
"You saw them a short time ago, Inuyasha," Hidenori answered. "They are six of the men working on the new development project for the park. Some say it is a miracle, others of course are not so sure, but it seems that all of the girls not only recovered from their injuries with no scars, or deformities whatsoever, but each and everyone of them asked to see their attackers...alone."
Ayumi's father continued, "The public was in a furor at this, and the law was going to forbid it, but someone and no one knows for sure who, stepped forward and in a private meeting with the local authorities, convinced the courts to grant the girls' wishes. Only the girls, the six men, the judge, and whoever is responsible for the development of the park out there, know what took place in that meeting."
"What is known, is that the men are to work on the development project, in the process learning a useful skilled trade. They are, also, assigned to pay part of their earnings to the twenty-six girls as part of the debt they owe them for their crimes to them. The girls chose to have the money put into a trust fund which is being used to form a program to help girls of all ages, all over the country, who have been through similar situations, and it is getting full backing by the corporation that is developing the park," spoke up Mayuki.
"Are they not afraid that those fiends will revert back to their old ways?" asked Inuyasha. Kagome shifted a bit, and Inuyasha could tell she would awaken soon, as her heartbeat quickened.
"That was what much of the public and the courts stated as their arguments in the matter," said Mayuki. "But the girls were adamant, and apparently certain promises were made between whoever the corporation is that is building the park and the public officials who were responsible for trying the case. In cases such as this, most such criminals would have been given life sentences for their crimes or executed depending on the perceived severity of the crime."
Ayumi's mother continued, "This case has been totally unprecedented, in that the victims were the ones permitted to choose the punishment. In fact, oddly enough, rumour has it that one of the victims and one of the men have taken to each other, and begun dating. But what is most surprising is the unconfirmed rumours that all six of the men, are actually experiencing a greater punishment than any law could possibly devise."
"Though no one will say for sure, it is said that all six are in the care of psychologists, as they are none of them able to sleep in peace. The press has been trying to find out more, but I have it on good authority through some personal connections that they have been recorded in their sleep, screaming in pain and even showing signs of injuries similar to those found on their victims. It is claimed that every day they drive themselves until they are too tired to stand, and fairly collapse in a dead faint, from exhaustion," stated Hidenori.
"Even then, they still do not rest, for it is said that they all relive the horror of one of their victims, experiencing everything that they did to her, as though they were in her shoes. Their shame and horror of their own actions are said to be the driving reason behind the nightmares, by their now understanding of what their victims suffered by their own hands. No one can explain it, not even the doctors. The best they can come up with is that they are so ashamed of their actions that the guilt as driven them to empathize with their victims, although even the doctors truly do not believe this to be the case." Hidenori concluded.
The wicked smile that appeared on Inuyasha's face sent a shuddering chill down the backs of all in the room who saw it. "Then your doctors are not as smart or knowledgable as the appear to be," was the hanyou's simple statement. It was spoken with complete assurance and confidence, making all in the room wonder, but no one was sure whether they had the courage to ask.
"You see," he continued in a tone that was almost sinister to the ear. "just before we left the victims and our prey to your police, we gave each of those 'things' a few drops of a special potion."
"What kind of potion Inuyasha," spoke up Ayumi, her couriousity overriding any fear she might have had. Inuyasha was special to her best friend, or she would not have accepted him. It was because of him and Kagome's other friends that she and the others were saved from their worst nightmares come to life. She could not find it in herself to continue to be afraid of Inuyasha.
"Just before we came through the well to 'hunt'," Inuyasha answered, looking Ayumi right in the eye, "Sesshomaru and I linked minds with Kagome. His Chief Healer, mixed a special potion called "Smitciv Rorroh". The base of it is simple common everyday herbs, however, by linking to the mind of one who has been victimized by their assailant, the essence of their nightmares cause by their assailant is combined with the potion. Once it is given to the fiends that caused the horrors for their captives, they are cursed to live their victims pain and suffering as though it were their own."
"You mean," spoke up Mayuki, "that every time one of the vile villians that hurt Ayumi and the others, closes their eyes, or goes to sleep, they are forced to experience what Kagome was put through, as through they were in her shoes?"
"Hai," said the hanyou, "Every cut, crack of bone, scratch, punch...everything that they did to Kagome, they will spend the rest of their lives reliving. That is why they push themselves to the point of collapse. They are afraid of their own actions, which now haunt their dreams."
"What of the leader of the group?" spoke up Ojii-san, "What happened to him?"
"I do not know," spoke Inuyasha, "Sesshomaru had special plans for him, and he is not one to reveal his designs if he chooses to keep to himself. You can rest assure, however, that whatever it is that Sesshomaru did to him, makes what the other six are going through seem like a quiet walk in the woods."
At that, Inuyasha gave a short, but definitely evil laugh. One that more than made everyone else shudder in fear. They didn't want to know what happened to the leader, and were not going to ask after him anymore. As for the six men, all that counted was that they would now pay for their crimes in a way that would remind them for the rest of their lives just how vile their acts were. And if it left them marked for the rest of their days, then it was by their own design.
All present knew that the leader of the 'Nightwalkers' was not taken by the police that night. All there knew that it was because he was taken into the past by Inuyasha's brother. At the cold and chilling look of hatred that had graced the face of the Youkai Lord that night before they had jumped into the old well to return home, those that saw almost fainted at the thought of being in the hands of such as he and not on his good side.
Inuyasha felt Kagome stirring and she began to awaken from her faint. He finished wiping her face with the wet cloth that Ayumi had provided, and nuzzled his mark on her neck, the soft growl soothing her and making her feel more at ease. The others in the room watching the interaction were touched beyond words at the loving attention that the hanyou gave to the onna he held to his chest. Such love and devotion was a rarity and Higurashi-nisou felt much more at ease knowing that her daughter was in good hands.
"Mama?" Kagome's soft voice whispered. Kaede had told her about her condition, and had advised her to take it easy, at least for a while longer. She had suffered a quite a bit of blood loss after her attack, and some of her injures, still pained her a little, even though healed because of the unexpected wave of power that she had given off in the hut. But her biggest problem was that very release of power.
It had come on because of the emotional turmoil that had surfaced with Inuyasha and Sesshomaru linked to her mind. It was one that no one had expected, and that she had not had any control over. It had been immense, and the sudden release had left her weaker than normal, and Kaede had said it would be quite awhile before she would be back to full strength.
She looked up at her mother, at the moment unwilling to leave the comfort of her mate's arms. He was her strength and safety. He was her heart, and held her soul. Looking into her mother's eyes, she could see the understanding that she had so hoped would be there.
"Mama, I am sorry?" she said, tears starting to run down her face. She still had the nightmares, and knew that she would for a while to come. On some level, she blamed herself for the events of that night, and some how felt that perhaps her mother did, too. On top of that, she now was coming home to only tell her mother that she was an expectant mother, essentially married, and would be leaving home for good now. Would her mother truly understand?
Inuyasha hugged her protectively, although not growling it was clear that he would not stand for anyone hurting Kagome, either physically or emotionally. She didn't deserve it, and not even her mother would be allowed such grace.
Higurashi-nisou seemed to understand what her daughter meant by her words. She nodded to her and smiled, "It is alright Kagome. There is nothing to be sorry for. None of it was your fault, and if you are happy with Inuyasha, who am I to stand in your way?"
"You don't blame me?" Kagome whispered, the true root of her fear obvious in her voice.
"Iie, my daughter," spoke her Okaa-san. "I could never blame you. What happened was never your fault, and you were right. Fate decided, although I wish it were otherwise that you be where you were that night. It was meant to be, so that twenty-six lost souls could be free and seven misguided beings brought to justice."
Kagome sighed in relief, and tears that she had fought to hold back trickled down her face. When he felt her trying to get up, Inuyasha let her go, although he followed close behind, unwilling to leave he side for a moment. Ojii-san understood his instinctive need to protect his mate and unborn pups, and made sure to signal Souta, and Hidenori to stay seated for now. Until Inuyasha was sure that no one would try to hurt Kagome, his instincts would override his more rational common sense.
Kagome's mother stood as well, and both onna hugged and held each other in a long needed and healing embrace, Kagome happy with her mother's understanding and approval, and her mother with her daughter's safety, healing, and happiness.
"Ojii-san, Souta, and I will miss you very much, but not so much as I believe you will miss us," said Higurashi-nisou.
"Hai, mama," cried Kagome into her shoulder. "I already miss you all, and my friends, too. I have been told, however that I will get to see you all again one day."
"You had better keep that promise," spoke up her Ojii-san, who turned when everyone looked at him strangely. "Nani? I want to see my grandchildren. So sue me!" Everyone smiled at that, as Kagome went and hugged her Ojii-san.
Kagome looked at the old priest, who was not only her grandfather, but had been like a father to her and Souta over the years. She had come to respect him and his love of history, especially with her experiences in Sengoku Jidai. "I promise," she said to her Ojii-san, smiling lovingly at him, "you will get to see your grandchildren, although by the time you see them, you will not be able to hold them as you did me and Souta when we were born."
Despite the youthful horrors of being hugged by his sister, Souta actually welcomed his sister's embrace. The past week's events had truly scared him on a level that the young boy had never considered before. Yes, he was a teen, and doing well in high school, but the reality that someone had nearly killed his sister hit him hard. He was reminded of his own mortality, as well as the fact that Kagome would very likely one day disappear down that old well, and might never come back.
Inuyasha was not only his hero, in more ways than one, but his self-chosen nii-san, and he didn't look forward to the day when he might not get to see him anymore. It all added up for Souta during this past week, and he was finding it hard to cope with, though he tried not to let it show. When Kagome gave him a hug, he found himself not only returning the embrace, but the tears that he had fought all week to hide, finally broke free. He cried, and while he didn't understand why, he was not ashamed that there were others to see him do so.
Ayumi understood, not only from the shared experience that both her and her best friend had gone through, but from the point of view of a young onna looking for that something that every young girl grows up looking for, hoping for, and praying that they will eventually find it. Kagome was one of the lucky one's on many levels.
She had a man...well hanyou, who loved her and protected her with his life. They loved each other dearly, and would risk everything they had for the safety and protection of the other. Now, Kagome was embarking on a journey together that would include a family, home, and friends that Ayumi could only imagine. She only hoped that one day, she would get to see her friend again, and like Kagome's Ojii-san, she wanted to make sure that the two of them promised to come back and visit.
But Ayumi understood, as well that Kagome and Inuyasha had been through very hard times. Adventures that Ayumi could barely imagine, let alone understand. The love that the two obviously held for each other had come at a great price, but was one that they both seemed willing to pay again, if it meant them being together even beyond the Realm of the Dead. Kagome hugged her dear friend, both girls sharing a moment that they would cherish for a long time to come.
"I will find a way to tell Yura, and Eri, and Hojo will just have to understand," she told Kagome. "It is not like you never told Hojo that he was not the man for you. Besides, Yura, Eri, and I should never have pushed him off on you, trying to set you up with a guy you obviously didn't want."
"Your hearts were all in the right place," said Kagome, "but nothing, not even Hojo, can compare to what I have in Sengoku Jidai. He was...is a good friend, but I could never think of him as anything more than that."
"I understand," spoke Ayumi.
It was late, but this was to be the last night that Kagome would be home for at least 500 years. So with the promise of loads of ramen to take home, if they stayed the night, Inuyasha consented. Mayuki and Higurashi-nisou went to the kitchen and set about preparing a dinner that was more of a feast. It was more than just a farewell dinner, it was to celebrate Inuyasha's and Kagome's mating, the successful ending to the 'Nightwalkers' intrusions, and the impending birth of the mated couples' pups.
Knowing that Inuyasha tended to be impatient when it came to things like going back through the well, Ojii-san convinced Hidenori to take Souta to the store to pick up the promised ramen that evening rather than wait for the next day. There was the convenience of a nearby 24 hours store that had noticed the rather high demand for ramen it the area. Of course they were not totally aware that most of the demand came from one source, but then, all that mattered to the store was that they needed to keep more in stock to meet the demand.
Shortly before dinner was due to be served, the two returned with an entire car loaded to overflowing with ever case of ramen that they could glean from the store, even to having had the stock clerk go into the back and pull out whatever they still had not put on the shelf. Hidenori paid for the whole lot, saying that it was the least he could do, to in some small way repay the hanyou who had rescued his only daughter.
The women laughed, while laying out dinner, as the men all took the mountain load of ramen, and stacked it inside the well. There was barely enough room for the other supplies that Kagome was taking back with her, or for that matter, themselves. This way, when Kagome and Inuyasha were ready to leave the next day, the ramen would go with them as they passed through the old well for the last time. All got a kick at the almost worshipful, drooling look of the hanyou as he eagerly eyed the mountain of his favorite food.
It was a cheerful, and yet solemn group that sat to dinner in the Higurashi household that night. The food was good and plentiful, and the company warm and comfortable. Although there was some sadness at this being their last visit, all were warmed by the idea that they would not be parted forever, and would someday see each other again. For those in the Modern Era, it would be just a matter of days or even weeks, but the for couple going through the well for the last time, it would be hundreds of years.
Inuyasha and Kagome spent a peaceful night, enjoying the safe haven of her bedroom. It would be the only time that they got to share in complete safety, an intimate moment without fear of danger or intrusion for a long time to come. They made the most of the moment, and thrilled in all that they could enjoy of their last time in this small room of the Higurashi Shrine, for a long time to come.
The morning dawned bright and promised a warm and sunny day. The Takenouchi's had left late the night before, but had promised to drop by early the next morning to see Kagome and Inuyasha off on their last trip through the old well.
Accept for the Takenouchi's and Kagome's own family, none of her friends had been aware that she had being one of the victims of the 'Nightwalkers'. While Ayumi had promised to explain to her friends Kagome's sudden disappearance, she was aware that there was much that she could not tell them about where their friend really was going. She could only tell them that she was going on a long journey and would one day return.
Kagome regretted not being able to say goodbye to the rest of her friends, but Inuyasha reminded her that this journey was not going to be forever. She would one day see them all again, it was just that they would find a very changed and quite different Kagome than the one that they were used to.
Kagome clung to the idea that she would see her mother, brother and Ojii-san again, as well as her friends. Truly this was not goodbye, it was just so long for now. With a last round of hugging and tearful kisses, the two stepped to the rim of the old well, and leaped into the past for the last time.
Dictionary
Baba - Old Woman, Witch, Shit, Bullshit
Baka - Idiot
Chikushou - Damn
Daitoku - Priest
Fujo - Sorceress
Fukurou - Owl
Hanyou - Half Demon
Higurashi-daitoku - Roughly: Priest Higurashi...I have chosen to use this instead of a name, as no name is ever cited in either the anime or the manga. Kagome's grandfather, and name used by those not of the family.
Higurashi-nisou - Roughly: Priestess Higurashi...I have chosen to use this instead of a name, as no name is ever cited in either the anime or the manga. Kagome's mother, and name used by those not of the family.
Hinba - Mare
Houshi - Monk
Inu - Dog
Joshi - Women
Kinmouno shishi - Golden-haired Lion
Kitsune - Fox Demon
Kobura - Cobra
Koruto - Colt
Kuromiko - Dark Miko
Miko - Shrine Maiden
Neko - Cat
Nisou - Priestess
Ojii-san - Grandfather
Ojika - Stag
Okaa-san - Mother
Onna - Woman
Ookami - Wolf
Osuuma - Stallion
Oushi - Bull
Red Dragon - Ru-doragon
Sama - Lady or Lord - respectively
Seiyuuki - Monkey
Shika - Deer
Shikon no Kakera - Shikon Shards
Shikon no Tama - Jewel of Four Souls
Shishi - Lion
Taijiya - Demon Exterminator
Taiyoukai - Demon Lord
Youkai - Demon
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