Chapter 3 - Fracture
The small room filled with a heavy silence.
"Look, this can't be right." Kagome said slowly. "We were sure of the jewel's destruction before. It was how we'd gained the upper hand against Naraku. Besides, how could I not notice something like a jewel being in my body for over three years afterwards? It just doesn't make sense."
"And were you aware of the shikon no tama's presence when it had been inside you since birth? It had laid dormant until you came here the first time, correct?" Kikyo raised her chin.
Kagome looked to the side, pressing her lips together. She had a point.
Rin came in just then, carefully balancing a bowl between her hands. "I brought you some water Kagome."
"Oh, thank you Rin." Kagome said gratefully as she accepted the drink. She was parched.
After having her fill she set the bowl down beside her. The ceramic made a dull clink as it settled onto the wooden floor. Her gaze lingered there for a moment as she collected her thoughts, her expression sober.
"I'm not sure if Inuyasha told you this..." Kagome began, "but I've been having nightmares lately. Nightmares about Naraku. That may not seem like a big deal, but I think with all of the recent happenings they may be connected somehow. It seems like too much of a coincidence for all of this to begin at the same time..."
She paused, apprehensive about voicing her next question. "Do you think...it could be him?"
Kikyo regarded her with a cold stare. "Naraku is dead. I myself witnessed his undoing during the final encounter and felt his life force disintegrate into nothing. Yes, there is some evil afoot, however it is not him." Her tone brooked no argument.
Kagome's brow twitched at the dismissive attitude, but she held her tongue. Quarreling with Kikyo was something she had put behind her long ago. Even though Kagome was her reincarnation, she had come to accept that they were just very different people. Still, she couldn't shake the ominous feeling that she had.
A chorus of yells rose up suddenly from outside. Kikyo was on her feet immediately, rushing for the door.
"Not again..." Rin whispered quietly, her eyes wide.
Kagome stared at her for a moment, unsettled by the expression on her face, then pushed herself out of the bed. Adrenaline was pumping through her veins. She nearly tore the blind off the door as she followed Kikyo outside.
"What's happening out-"
Catastrophe met her eyes.
In place of the serene village of her memories was a horror. Dilapidated remains of houses stood before her, most crumbling or half buried. She realized that she had been staying in one of the few surviving structures. No sign of green could be found in the immediate area, only rusty shades of brown and black. The fields that she could see were barren and desolate, and the ground everywhere was cracked and wounded. Trees lay uprooted or broken, some sliding down into great chasms that had opened up from below.
Kagome fell to her knees, overcome by the sheer devastation. She could hardly believe this was the same village that had been her second home for so many years. It was completely unrecognizable.
"Careful, watch his leg!" a voice cried out from the direction of the fields. Kagome turned her head and saw Inuyasha approaching with a man draped over his shoulders. A group of others followed close behind.
"Calm down, I ain't that stupid." Inuyasha growled at the farmers. He glanced up just then and met Kagome's eyes. He paused. "So...you've seen."
"I don't understand..." she breathed. "What on earth happened?"
"It's that witch!" one of the farmers interjected angrily, pointing an accusatory finger at Kikyo. The other men voiced their agreement.
"It has to be, this land's been cursed by the undead! It ain't natural for her to be here...especially as our miko. The others were right to leave-"
Inuyasha turned a venomous glare to the men, silencing them at once. Kikyo strode forwards, ignoring their protests. "Where are you injured?" she asked the wounded man. He narrowed his eyes and turned away, refusing to speak. She saw his leg then – it was twisted at a gruesome angle.
"One of the fields caved in again." Inuyasha stated, lowering the man to ground rather less than gently.
"All the crops have been destroyed. There's nothing left here!" the first farmer spoke up again.
"If Kaede-sama were still alive this never would have happened." another man said under his breath. Inuyasha spun at the comment, looking ready to beat him into a bloody pulp.
"Inuyasha." Kikyo said forcefully, causing him to stop. "These men are simply frightened and confused. It is not their fault."
"Then they'd better learn to show some fucking gratitude." he growled as she bent to treat the broken leg.
Kagome stood numb with shock, unable to summon her voice. Everything was so...wrong.
"Come on Kagome, I'd better tell you everything." Inuyasha said in a low voice. He put a hand on her shoulder and led her away from the arguing men.
***
"I can't believe I didn't know about this." Kagome said sadly, kneeling before the small grave. A single stick of incense wafted aromatic smoke in the breeze. She lightly touched her fingers to the ground there. "Kaede was like a grandmother to me. She was a mentor, a friend..."
"She had a long life." Inuyasha said in a respectful tone. "I don't think she would have any regrets, and she passed away in her sleep. I'm just glad she isn't around to see what's happening now."
A shadow seemed to pass over his face. Kagome looked back over her shoulder in the direction they had walked from. Far across the fields she could see the brown tinge of the blemish. They'd gone quite a ways to reach this untouched patch of forest. The affliction seemed to be focused solely around the village.
"Tell me what happened." she said, leaning back against a tree. She allowed her body to slide down into a sitting position.
Inuyasha moved closer but remained standing, his arms crossed in contemplation.
"It probably started about a month ago..." he said after a moment. "The farmers began to notice an excess of wilted or dead crops. The ground was getting drier by the day, and no matter what they did the soil wouldn't retain moisture."
"After a while we saw cracks starting to form in the lower fields. We knew it wasn't an ordinary drought because the neighboring villages weren't having any problems. Soon it spred to the grass and trees...everything was dying off without explanation. That was when some of the first people left. They were frightened and thought it was all a bad omen."
"Weeks went by and the situation got worse. By then the tremors started. Every day there would be quakes that opened up crevices, some swallowing up whole houses. Most of the remaining villagers fled at that point, leaving just the elderly and stubborn."
Kagome listened intently, holding her chin in her palm. She was surprised to find herself feeling guilty about everything, as if it were all her fault. Why do I always think like that? she asked herself. I shouldn't feel bad for just wanting to live a normal life, should I? It's not as though I abandoned them knowing this catastrophe would happen.
Ignoring her inner dispute, she gazed upwards through the tree leaves. A gentle sunlight filtered in through the gaps, speckling the ground with shapes of light. The wind whispered a soft breeze that scattered the smoke of the incense.
How is it so peaceful here...she thought absently, while just across the meadow there's so much suffering.
"Why were those men acting so horribly towards Kikyo?" she asked suddenly, her brow pulling down. "I know the villagers used to have such respect for her."
Inuyasha sighed audibly and slumped back against the tree trunk. "All of this began shortly after Kaede passed away. I think they're just looking for a scapegoat to blame the problems on. Many of them were intimidated by Kikyo when she returned here, but still held respect either out of past memory or because of Kaede herself." His eyes were hard.
"Either way, once Kaede was gone they started whispering behind our backs. They know what she is...that she's not really alive. Especially now that her miko powers have been fading, they say she's seeking vengeance towards the living for her past. That her soul's become corrupted and that's why she can't harness those holy abilities anymore."
Kagome picked at her fingernails, avoiding his gaze. Part of her seemed to comply with the opinion of the villagers. What if this was Kikyo's fault? a small voice said. She felt terrible for thinking such things, but nothing else made any sense. She recalled the time that Kikyo had tried to pull Inuyasha down to hell with her. The ground had shifted beneath them, cracking and sundering as it was pulled under. It was actually remarkably similar to what was happening right now. And why is this only happening around their village...especially right after Kaede's death...
Kagome swallowed, banishing the thoughts before she could put too much stock into them. She didn't want it to be true, especially for Inuyasha's sake. She could see that he was already breaking beneath his calm exterior. Their relationship was probably going through a lot of trials.
"Have you heard from Sango and Miroku lately?" she asked to distract her mind. The last time she'd seen them they were getting ready to settle down together, planning to cross the country and help people with youkai troubles beforehand. They had been so happy to finally overcome their obstacles and be able to spend time with each other.
She saw the hints of a smile form on Inuyasha's mouth at the mention of their friends. "Not for a while actually. We've been so preoccupied with this mess that I haven't given a lot of thought to other things. Last I heard they were doing fine though. They're living at that monk Mushin's place. They've got a couple kids now, so I think they've retired from the demon slaying business. Oh, Shippo's with them too." he added.
Kagome's expression softened as she thought of them all living happily. It would be so good to see them again, she really missed them.
"We should probably head back." Inuyasha said abruptly, stepping forwards.
Kagome was about to protest, but closed her mouth almost immediately. She'd wanted to spend some more time talking with him, but doubtlessly there were more pressing matters to attend to. It was funny how quickly she'd adapted to being back in that place. Everything would feel so natural for a moment, and then reality would sweep in and she'd realize how different it was. She was fairly sure Inuyasha was avoiding certain subjects with her. The awkwardness seemed to hang between them constantly, yet they both tactically ignored it. It was like pretending not to see a giant purple elephant in hopes that it would go away.
"Sure," she replied, pulling herself up with the aid of a low branch. Her thoughts were in a tangle once again. With the possibility of her posessing the jewel once more she wasn't sure what she should be doing. Her mind was torn between wanting to go home...back to the life she'd established, and wanting to stay and help everyone.
She beamed a false smile towards Inuyasha and started to follow, staring at her shoes. The two of them walked back in silence.
***
The sight of the village was less shocking to Kagome when they returned, though just as saddening. The mysterious pestilence had certainly taken its toll within the short span of time since it began.
Rin spotted them approaching and waved heartily. Kagome couldn't help but smile back at the cheerful girl.
"How does she manage to keep such high spirits when surrounded by this disaster?" she murmured.
Inuyasha shook his head. "Who knows. She's stronger than most humans though, I'll give her that much."
Kikyo came out of the nearby hut just then, her face sombre.
"How is the farmer?" Kagome asked concernedly.
"I fear that he won't make it. He is old and the injury is greivous. I doubt he'll recover even after my tending." she turned towards Inuyasha. "The remaining villagers will be leaving tonight. I think this is a lost cause, there's nothing left to stay here for."
Inuyasha exhaled heavily. "I figured as much. I'll go gather some food and supplies." he sniffed at the wind. "I think it's a good idea to leave anyways...there's something rotten in the air and I don't like it."
Suddenly a low rumble emanated from beneath them. Kagome stumbled as the ground began to shake, quivering vibrations spreading out like ripples. Up ahead Rin screamed, turning to run back towards them. Kikyo lost her balance and went down to one knee, but Inuyasha was there at once and helped her back to her feet.
Then Kagome sensed something...a dark presence that caused her heart to pound. Her gaze fixed upon the center of the village where small cracks were appearing in the dirt.
"There's something there..." she gasped, staring at spot. "It's...underground."
The tremors faded to a dull reverberation then stopped completely. The sensation dwindled along with them.
"Are you two alright?" Inuyasha asked.
Kagome nodded distantly, her eyes still locked onto the ground. She turned to Kikyo. "Did you feel that?"
The other woman looked at her but shook her head slightly. "I sensed nothing."
Rin slowed her pace as she approached them, breathing heavily. "That scared me..." she admitted sheepishly. "I've never felt one so...close."
Kagome place a hand on the girl's head, smiling down at her. "Don't worry Rin, it startled me too." She kept her thoughts to herself about the thing she'd sensed. Perhaps she'd only imagined it.
Evening seemed to descend quickly upon the ruined village. The sky became a cool, slate grey as the sun slipped behind the mountains. What few lingering inhabitants remained were busy gathering their things for departure. Inuyasha had gone to collect what things he could from the nearby forest, and Kikyo was still aiding the sick and wounded.
Kagome sat alone inside the hut, crouching down by the firepit. Small flames crackled in the dim light of the interior, lending what warmth they could to the gloomy atmosphere.
What am I doing here? she thought to herself. There's no reason for me to stay. This village is being abandoned, and I can't even do anything to help. And if the jewel's inside me again then wouldn't it be better for me to leave? I'm just going to attract demons if I remain here.
She sighed and rubbed at her temples. She didn't know what to do anymore. She was tempted to just leave a note and go back through the well on her own.
"Are you in here Kagome?" Rin's voice came from outside the doorway. Her head peeked in.
Kagome looked up and nodded, beckoning the girl inside. "Come on in, it's at least a little warmer here."
Rin shuffled over and sat beside her, snuggling up to the fire. "Do you know where we're going now?" she asked in a quiet voice.
Kagome stared into the flames. "I'm not sure. The villagers are probably all going their separate ways. I'm sure Inuyasha and Kikyo have a plan though. Are you staying with them?"
The girl nodded slowly. "Yes, I'm supposed to stay with them. At least, that's what Sesshoumaru-sama wanted." she scratched at a spot on the floor. "I wish Sesshoumaru-sama would come back though. What if he doesn't know where we are after?"
"I'm surprised he didn't come to get you after all this started happening...unless," Kagome looked down at Rin. "He wasn't aware of it?"
"No...Sesshoumaru-sama hasn't visited since the spring. I miss him, and Jaken-sama too. I think he would have come back if he'd heard about the bad things." she shivered slightly.
Kagome then remembered the large pack that her brother had given her. She turned around and saw it sitting in the far corner of the room, untouched. Surely there would be some blankets in there.
She opened up the backpack and rummaged through the contents. Souta had certainly been thorough. Everything from spare clothes to medical supplies and a plethora of other survival necessities were packed carefully inside. Sure enough tucked away at the bottom were some small blankets. She pulled them out and brought them back to towards the fire, draping one around Rin's shoulders and the other over her own. They sat close together in companionable silence, waiting for news of what was to come.
A thought came to Kagome just then, and she stood up suddenly. "I'm going to go have a word with Kikyo actually. I'll be right back, so stay here and keep warm." She left her blanket with Rin and stepped outside.
It was already dark as she made her way to the other building where Kikyo was ministering the injured man. A flickering light in the window was the only sign of life amidst the desolate structures.
She walked in on Kikyo pulling a blanket over the man's head, bowing her head in prayer.
Kagome paused in the doorway, disheartened by the death. "Oh...I'm sorry. I guess he didn't make it."
The other woman looked up at her. "No. It was as I expected though. I gave him a serum to ease the pain. I believe he passed on peacefully." she began to collect the various tools and herbs on the floor around her.
Kagome watched her for a moment, unsure of where to start.
"I was wondering...why are your spiritual powers fading?" she asked finally.
Kikyo stopped what she was doing and gazed at her. "In life I was a powerful miko," she began. "the abilities I possessed were gained after years of dedication and training. These powers were a part of you as well, being my incarnation. When I was resurrected it was through a piece of your soul. That soul gave me those powers, but since it was only borrowed those powers have slowly begun to grow stale. In this body I have no source of spiritual abilities, so I was using the essence of your spirit. Without a way of recharging, those powers are now diminishing. Soon I will not possess any."
"So...that's why you needed me to come here? You had to use my abilities since you couldn't any more." Kagome replied somewhat bitterly.
Kikyo's eyes narrowed slightly and she looked away. "Yes. Though I admit I'd rather you hadn't come at all."
Kagome's mouth opened and her brow came down. "Look, I'm sick of you manipulating everything. I ignored it all those years, but you were constantly trying to come between Inuyasha and I. Well, you won, alright? You got him. Isn't that what you wanted?" hot tears stung at her eyes. "To be honest I don't know why I'm here myself. It's clear I can't do anything, and I don't want to be reminded of everything I gave up. I obviously don't belong, so why don't I save you the trouble and just leave."
Kikyo opened her mouth to retort, but stopped. Whatever she'd been about to say, Kagome would never know. They were interrupted by a thunderous roar that rolled out in all directions. Abandoning the conversation, they rushed outside immediately.
The quake was stronger this time. Violent tremors ripped through the ground, tearing up anything in their path. Houses broke apart, trees toppled over, and the cracks in the dirt widened into jagged fissures.
Kagome turned sharply and looked across the village. Rin was still alone...
"Rin!" she cried out, breaking into a run. Her feet pounded over the shifting ground, and she prayed that she wouldn't lose her footing. The moonlight was the only guide she had in the encroaching nightfall.
The girl came dashing out of the hut, fear evident in her eyes. The blankets were still hanging from her shoulders, and she had the backpack in her hands. She saw Kagome and started forwards, but the structure behind her suddenly lurched. Wood splintered as it caved in, toppling down and heading for Rin.
Kagome dived, pushing her out of the way and narrowly avoiding the debris that came crashing down behind. Chaos surrounded them. The center of the village was sinking, being pulled into the pit that was forming there.
Kagome took the backpack from Rin and put it over her shoulders. They struggled to maintain footing on the unstable ground, and everything seemed to be falling around them. Kagome thought she spotted Inuyasha's figure running towards them, but then a cascade of debris shattered up around them.
A massive form seemed to burst upwards from the ground, spraying clumps of earth and rock as it emerged. A deep growl, impossibly loud, reverberated through the area. There was a blinding light, and the two girls screamed as they were engulfed in it.
Then everything went dark.
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A/N: I'm sooo sorry that this chapter took so long! I've been really busy lately and haven't been able to dedicate the time to this that I wanted. It didn't help that I considered this part as 'the boring stuff to get out of the way'. xD As excited as I am to get to the juicy parts, there's always backstory to cover so I had to get through this with minimal motivation. I hope you didn't mind all the exposition! . Thanks for sticking with this story, and please review to let me know what you think! ^^ And don't worry, we shall be seeing our favourite fluffy taiyoukai next chapter. :)
