Legend of The Shikon
*****I don't own Inu Yasha... Or Sesshomaru *cries in the corner*
Hey I am so sorry to those who have read this. Technology and me… We clash. And I accidently added the story; it wasn't quit worthy enough for you viewing pleasure. However, I revised it and, I like it better now. To those who read the first draft- let me know what you think between the two.
This is my first attempt for a FF. Please R&R Thanks guys!!
Let the story begin!
Midoriko Higurashi, the eldest child of her clan. She and her family resided in the small village to the east. She was a tall proud young woman with two dark chocolate orbs with a look of pure determination; long black straight hair that came to just above the small of her back; snow white smooth skin gave her the appearance of being a fragile as a porcelain doll. As she has witnessed many time before, things are not what they appear to be, a frail human in appearance, she was the Priestess that protected the jewel known as the Shikon No Tama. Within her bosom laid heart filled with love, compassion and soul so pure, there was no doubt she was the rightful protector of the jewel.
Her father, Ken was a prestigious Priest; known throughout the land for ability to vanquish evil spirits with the flick of wrist; her mother Naomi, a sweet and incredibly kind woman, she was known for her knowledge in herbal medicine in healing. Receiving the blessing as gifts from her parents, Midoriko proved herself to be a talented priestess with much potential. Lastly Michiko, Her younger sister, a split mirror image of Midoriko except one detail; Michiko had bright green eyes. Beginning her first lesson as a miko at the tender age of eight she was strong and determined to be just like her beloved sister she idolized.
The Shikon, which Midoriko wore upon her neck, had drawn attention from the tainted hearts of demons and humans alike; all wanting to possess the jewel. Midoriko had made great effort in keeping the precious stone safe from the clutches of evil; fending off the all that pursued the Jewel, every single effort ending in the same way, failure.
Life in the village returned to normal, peaceful even. Too peaceful in the eyes of Midoriko, after all there was always the calm before the storm; she always keep a watchful eye, waiting for the storm that was brewing waiting for it's opportune moment.
One crisp morning Midoriko arose and headed out to her villages, to start on her daily chores. While she was shaking out the rugs, Michiko came running towards her giggling in her excitement, "Riko! Riko! Guess what mommy just taught me," coming to a halt before her sister, her smile stretching from ear to ear, waiting for the older miko to finish her current duty. Folding the rug, she placed on a stack of other rugs; she glanced at her younger sibling and noted the constant fidgeting coming from the smaller form; stifling a tiny laugh she finally knelt down to her sisters eye level, showing great interest she replied, "what would that be little one?"
Taking the bait, the small child eagerly squealed, "She taught me how to form a barrier! Watch me," Stepping back a good 5 feet, she closed her bright green eyes and began to concentrate; remembering to control her breathing. Soon, the glowing of a faint pink engulfed the tiny girl, showing off the newly developed skill. Allowing the tiny aura to fade, Michiko turned her attention back to her older sister. "Did you see it?"
"Of course I did! You did a magnificent job Michi! I'm so proud of you." Smiling warmly down to her, suddenly she felt a tug on her soul. Eyes widening her breathing hitched as she looked onto the horizon. There, a lone silhouette was making its way towards her townsfolk. "Michi, go find mother and father; bring them here then go hide yourself in the hut." Gazing at her sister quizzically she responded, "No, I want to stay with you." Snapping her neck towards her sister, she objected sternly, "Absolutely not. Do as you are told. Go now." Turning on her foot, she ran as fast as her short legs could carry her, searching frantically for her parents.
Returning her gaze back to the lone figure in the outskirts of the village, she noticed the figure had stopped and was just starring at her. Being too far out to confirm if it were a human or demon; all she could make out though was the figure was dressed in a baboon pelt. 'Odd, the aura feels like more powerful than the average demon'… She thought. It was then her parents joined her on either side of her.
Taking charge of the situation, her father's voice came alive, "What brings you to out humble villages Stranger?" Noticing the Baboon's face tilted to the left, then right, the strange figure responded, "I come to seek the one who carries the Shikon No Tama." Automatically bring her hand to clasp around the jewel around her neck, Midoriko shouted, "What do you want with it?"
"For the same reason others have tried before. We have all heard about the power of the Shikon No Tama; will grant any wish to come to pass."
"Who are you?! I demand that you tell me at once," commanded Ken.
"My sincere apologies," Watching as he lifted a hand to his face, he pulled back the baboon like face to reveal, merciless red eye; long black wavy hair with it a smile that would have dazzled any woman, but on this man… it spoke of cruelty. "My name is Naraku, I am a half demon; I desire to become a full blood demon. This Jewel is my only chance."
Stepping forward Naomi rebuke, "Clearly you have lost your mind, though you are a hanyou, we three are mikos; surely you do not think you can defeat us by yourself?"
An evil cackling could be heard coming from the dark figure, "No my dear, I believe it is you whom is outnumbered." As if on command, a dark line appeared on the horizon as hundreds of soldiers walked up behind Naraku. The three looked onto the enemies lines and saw they all had northern crests presented on their body armor. Within closer inspection, they recognized the large figure of the newly coroneted Northern Lord, Ryukotsusei.
"Naraku, why do you toy with these pitiful weaklings? Allow my men to crush them all and you will finally have the jewel; and I the compensation you promised me," Came a thunderous voice from the Dragon Lord himself.
Turning to his comrade, His smooth voice filled the air, "Why spoil the fun? The excitement of a chase is not in finally capturing your prey, but enjoying the chase."
From across the distance, Midoriko didn't like to be labeled as "weak" just because she was human. No she wasn't human, she was a miko; a demon's mortal enemy. Taking a deep breath she held her head high and called out defiantly to the two males. "What makes you think that I, the miko of the Shikon No Tama will give it up so easily? It is my duty to protect it from the vile wastes like you."
Snapping his head back to the lone female across from them, "You dare to resist me? Miko, I thought you to be wiser than that; or would you risk sacrificing your innocent village because of your selfishness."
This time the Ken answered for his daughter, "We will do whatever it takes to protect the lives of innocence."
Turning one side of his lips into a crooked smile, Naraku looked as though he had just found what he was looking for. "Good, I was hoping you would say that. Kill them all."
It happened so fast, Naraku's men started racing towards them. Before Midoriko had time to react, he felt a hand pull on her arm and was being dragged in the opposite direction. Realizing it was her mother escorting her back towards the village in a frantic frenzy she began to tell her daughter what they must do. "Your father and I will get the villagers to safety. I need you to take Michiko and run into the forest, hide your scents and auras; Midoriko, Keeping you safe is our priority. Do not place yourself in harm's way. Your father and I shall try to fend them off for as long as we can, whatever happens don't come looking for us." Not being able to form words in her mouth, she just solemnly nodded her head. "Take care of your sister, if anything should happen; seek refuge in the western lands." Arriving at the threshold to their hut, mother and daughter embraced for the last time. "Be brave" releasing her hold, her mother began to run back the ways they came, returning to aid her beloved husband.
Dashing inside the hut, Midoriko grabbed hold of her sister and took off into forest heading west running, trying to get as far as she can. She soon came upon a part of the forest that was heavily littered with trees. Mind made up, she instructed her sister to climb to the highest branch of the tree. Once they were up there, they would be safe; she prayed.
Looking back to the east, Midoriko saw smoke rising from the place they just came. Deep down she knew no one survived.
The next day, the duo slowly made their way to the western kingdom; careful of the trails they took, they were unarmed and knew not where the creature Naraku may be.
The two girls had been incredibly lucky to have stumbled across a village; they managed to exchange their clothing trying to blend in more rather than travel in their miko garbs. Once they acquired enough food for the 2 days travel to the western lands, they were off once again; this gave Midoriko time to contemplate what she must do when she meets the Lord of the West.
The western lord was known for his gracious aid to weaker being; demon and human alike. He was also a man of honor; he would never stoop low as to wishing for power, no this lord was better than that, He was the Great Inu Taiyoukai of the West; on her hands and knees she would plead for his help to fight off this evil hanyou known as Naraku, even if it did make her look like the begging dog; she would do it.
Arriving at the Western Kingdoms door, butterflies exploded into Midoriko's stomach; it was the moment of truth. Entering the threshold of the outer wall, she sought out a commanding officer and requested an audience with The Great Inu Taiyoukai.
Midoriko and Michiko found themselves in the throne room with the Great Lord; bowing deeply to pay their respects to him, he brought them forward.
"Young Maiden, why have you brought me here today?" His voice spoke of volumes of wisdom and compassion.
"Milord, my name is Midoriko Higurashi; I am the protector of the Shikon No Tama. A few days ago my village was attacked and all were kille-" choking back a sob, she was determined to be strong. "The entire village was wiped out. Slaughtered by a great evil, a murderous hanyou named, Naraku."
"Higurashi you say? Tell me, is your father Ken Higurashi?"
"Yes, Milord; I'm sad to bring the news of his death, as well as my mothers."
"I'm sorry for your loss, I knew your father a long time ago; Good man."
Finding herself incapable of talking, she just nodded.
Curiosity getting the better hold of him, The Taiyoukai asked, "Priestess, why have you come to me?"
"I humbly ask for your aid to kill this wicked hanyou who seeks this jewel here, upon my neck."
"Tell me story behind this small jewel."
Midoriko went on, filling the Demon Lord with every detail about the Jewel of Four Souls and its ability to grant one wish; As well as the Evil Naraku and his allied friend, the Lord from the North, Lord Ryukotsusei."
The Great Lord sat in his throne and listened intently to the young priestess before him; shocked to hear of Ryukotsusei doing in this. The Taiyoukai listened intently to the tone at which her words were coming out. Hearing her words come out strong but could clearly see in her eyes, her very soul being torn to pieces all over the tiny jewel hanging around her neck.
The Lord looked upon the young priestess with great pity, for someone so young to be burdened with a curse such as the Shikon No Tama, was something no one should have to endure. Standing from his elaborate throne, The Taiyoukai made his way to the young miko.
Midoriko took in his form as he made his way to her, His long flowing snow white hair that travel down to just past him knees; The black crescent moon in the center of forehead told of his heritage from the family of the moon; to his crimson red dual strips on his cheeks and on the outline of his eyes as well, bringing out the honey colored eyes tenfold. There was no denying that the Demon Lord was beautiful, lethal yet beautiful; his appearance seemed fiercer with the dark maroon silk kimono that contrasted with his striking features.
He approached her small frame, and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, "You have my word that I, The Great Inu Taiyoukai shall conquer this evil with you." Releasing the breath she held tightly within her lungs, she smiled out of the hope he gave her. Before she could open her mouth to speak; there came another voice from behind them.
"I too shall fight alongside you father and you Midoriko."
Two sets of shocked eyes searched for the source, only to find the Taiyoukai's only son, Inu Taishou proudly standing in the door way; wearing an elegant pure white silk kimono and armored plates strapped to his torso and his swords fastened to his obi.
"Father, one day I shall be the Taiyoukai of these lands; please allow me to fight for my future subjects." The determined look in his sons eyes was not the only thing that gave away that he will not take no for an answer. Inu Taisho's long silver silk like was hair pulled to a high pony tail, only allowing his bangs to frame his beautiful face; accenting the purple jagged strip on his cheeks and black crescent moon presented on his forehead. His appearance speaking for himself; he was ready for battle.
Knowing he would lose the argument, the Great Lord only nodded. "Son, take the two young mikos to the west wing guest rooms. Make sure their needs are met before seeing me; we need to formulate a plan for the upcoming battle." All three forms bowing to the Lord, Inu Taishou escorted the two young maidens to their chambers allowing them to sleep.
**Hours Later***
Midoriko was awakened with great urgency by a servant of The Great Lord, "Mistress, forgive me for pulling you from your sleep at an ungodly hour but the Western Lord requested an audience with you." Nodding her tired head, she sat up from the warm comfortable bed and walked towards the wardrobe to dress herself. Slipping on a dark green kimono; and pulling her hair back into a sloppy bun, she alerted the young servant she was ready to be taken to the Demon Lord.
Approaching two giant wooden oak doors, Midoriko lifted her hand and firmly knocked on the door, "Enter" bellowed a voice the belonged to the Western Lord. Taking a deep breath the miko pulled on the door handle and let herself into the room. Taking in her surroundings she noted the room was filled with scroll shelves from the floor to the ceiling; though as packed as it was, it was well kept and clean. Directly ahead of her she saw the white haired demon stand from his seat, "Please come in and sit." Placing one foot in from of the other Midoriko wandered to seat in front of the Lord's desk, and gracefully sat down on the cushioned chair. Sitting himself back down, he brought his palms together in front of him, "A messenger of mine had returned a while ago, carrying a note. He was badly beaten and knew not who gave him the parcel." Taking his left hand he reached to a piece of paper on his desk and fluidly leaned over the desk and gave it to the young miko; taking the letter from the clawed hands she read it over.
Taiyoukai of the West,
I know of the guest you have staying there within your kingdom; a miko, who possess a jewel that I desire to have. As I write this letter to you, Lord Ryukotsusei's vast army approaches closer and closer to your kingdom. I will demolish your lands if I must to obtain the Shikon No Tama; hand over the miko and you and your subjects shall be spared. Resist me, you will all die.
Naraku
Fury boiled under the mikos skin, how dare this monster kill her parents and her villagers, now he will kill more innocent lives over the tiny trinket, he will pay with his life. The Demon Lord focused on the emotions the miko presented to him, surprised to receive rage when he was expecting emotions of sadness to come from her, he brought her attention to him, "Though he may have the Northern Lord on his side; my defense force are far more superior in the art of battle. Miko, we shall fight Naraku and Lord Ryukotsusei here; the retaining wall will keep the northern troops at bay." Nodding in agreement she continued to listen to the centuries of warfare experience he had to offer. "I suspect 2 or 3 days at the most, and then they will upon us. As we speak, Inu Taishou is preparing the men, calling in all our forces and setting up more defensible structures. What military training to you possess?" she confidently without skipping a beat, "Bow and arrow."
"Come with me," spoke the Lord as he stood up from his desk again, and lead the miko down to the armory; in search for the perfect bow and arrows to use at her disposal.
Preparations were made within record time; as promised; the western army could see a massive band of northern troops closing in. On the eve of battle, Midoriko pulled Michiko aside. "Dearest little sister, tomorrow I will be going to fight. If something happens to me, I have asked the Taiyoukai to take you to the demon slayers village. There are more mikos that can train you to develop your powers. You will be safe there." Green eyes began to turn glassy and fill with tears, "Riko-neesan, I don't want you to go."
"This not the time to be selfish; you and I are miko's we have a duty to perform. I must guard the Shikon jewel. Little one, you must be strong; this is the one lesson I gave teach you. As a miko, others look to you for strength, you must be strong." Nodding her tiny head in understanding Michiko embraced her sister for the last time.
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**The next day**
The battle had been fierce, the wall was holding as the Taiyoukai said it would. Dead bodies of fallen comrades on both side littered the ground. Hundreds of thousands of demons running over the dead fighting each other off; fighting, for this jewel that had been whispered among the land of Japan.
The eldest of the Higurashi clan, Midoriko; fought fiercely with the help of The Inu Taiyoukai of the West and his son Inu Taishou the battle appeared to be in their favor. The trio was doing a great job vanquish the enemy, lowering their numbers.
Then Ryukotsusei and Naraku appeared in the midst of the battle; bringing with them a great force, killing a good portion of the western troops; slowly in their wake, the forces of good started to stagger back; the western soldiers started dropping to the ground like flies. Midoriko looked on at the fighting pair; and was hit with an epiphany; she then realized what she must do for the sake of all of Japan.
Leaving her comrades side she stepped towards the middle of the chaos, in the pathway of Lord Ryukotsusei and the vile being known as Naraku. Starring of with a glaze look in her dark chocolate brown eyes; she started to chant up ancient words of her people, the evil hearts of man and demon alike began to realize their bodies glowing. Screams of horror filled the air as static electricity surged through their bodies.
"Your hearts are filled with nothing but the vile works of evil. Your wicked ways shall be no more, forever you shall be trapped in the very jewel to which you killed to poses." Spoke Midoriko. Closing her eyes as her aura began to glow white; her petit form began to rise above the ground; glowing brighter and brighter until it was too bright to look on. The next second, the light was gone, and Midoriko descended from the sky.
Father and son raced to her side; checking for any vital injuries she might have sustained. Sighing in relief when they heard her ragged breathing reach their ears, The Taiyoukai began to question her. "Midoriko, what happened?"
Trying to regain her breathe from her over exertion, she looked into his eyes and softly spoke, "The gods revealed to me what I needed to do. I locked away all the evil soul within the Shikon No Tama; however I pushed my body beyond its limits, I'm afraid I only have a few more minutes before my body will die." Pausing for a moment to catch her breath, it was during this time Inu Taishou asked, "What should we do with the Shikon? Even with this new evil gone, a new shall form and try to come after it."
"You must burn the Shikon with my body, and bury it with my remains. This is how it has to be." Truly smiling, she looked to her two new friends, "Dearest friends, do not fret my destiny has been fulfilled. Please take Michiko to demon slayers village; I thank you for your valiant effort to help me. I pray a long a prosperous life for you both." With that, the miko closed her eyes for the last time.
Rising from the ground, the Great Lord commanded his men to build a funeral pyre for the miko who sacrificed her life for them all. During the preparation time for the burial of the Shikon No Tama Miko; no one noticed a form crawling into the coverings of the forest. Standing battered, bruised and singed from the miko's power, a man with wavy charcoal black hair and piercing red eyes glared menacingly in the direction of the dead miko. Barely escaping with his life from the clutches of the mikos power; he vowed he would return to find the Shikon. He needed rest to recover and time to reform another army; fading back into the shadows, he would wait.
That night, the ceremony for the brave miko went underway. During the entire process her body was being cremated, only silence could be heard. Silent prayers went to the miko, praying that her soul may rest in peace.
Later the miko remains were gathered; curiosity struck the Western Lord when he noticed the Precious Shikon Jewel was not present. Unable to fathom up conclusions he didn't know what to think. He placed the jewel himself with the miko before lighting the pyre; he watched the whole thing and he himself gathered her remains. He prayed that whatever happened to the missing Shikon that it would never finds its way into the hands of the wicked.
Stories were told throughout the land of the brave priestess who sacrificed her life for the fate of the world. But like every story, it faded to the pages of history. Becoming nothing more than a legend; The Legend of the Shikon.
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Hey! Tell me what you think, if you see anything that needs to be changed or what not please.. Let me know. I am so new at this lol it's kind of scary! But yea thank you again!