I cut out the battle scene since it's not really important to the story line. This is going to be a long, epic story spanning 500 years and more. There will be plenty of battles ahead, and eventually Sesshoumaru and Kagome will have their own steamy scenes together to liven things up. For now we're setting the stage for the future, and the battle with Naraku was really only a small stepping stone along the way so I hopped over it. Hope this doesn't bother anyone. This is a long chapter but a good one. I remind you again that reviews encourage my muse. This story isn't a passion of mine, the Riddick verse is more my scene, but if enough interest is generated in the story I can be persuaded to write more often. These four chapters I typed out rather quickly during some free time, reviews might help me make more free time for this story. (HINT HINT, WINK WINK!!)
Chapter 4
The battle had been long and brutal to say the least. When all was said and done nearly half their numbers had been depleted, and many more were injured. Sesshoumaru took care of the dead with his sword Tenseigai, while Kagome depleted nearly the last of her strength healing those who were most grievously injured. As she moved from soldier to soldier tending wounds, the now completed Jewel of Four Souls hung about her neck shining a clear brilliant pink to signify its newly restored purity while the black jewel housing the soul of the foul hanyou rested in a drawstring bag at her hip.
Standing after having tended the last of the most wounded Kagome let her gaze travel the battle field. Miroku and Sango had thankfully managed to escape the battle relatively unharmed and were seeing to the lesser injuries as they moved amongst the demon ranks. Ayame was tending to Kouga who had relinquished his own jewel shards to Kagome when the battle was done, and without the added power of the shards his body succumbed to exhaustion. He had fought long and hard, and not even Sesshoumaru would deny he left the field with not only vengeance for his fallen comrades, but honor for his tribe. Shippo and Rin were further off from the rest, playing beside Aun with Jaken, who had grumbled loudly about being left behind to babysit before a boot to the back of the head delivered by Sesshoumaru quieted him. Sesshoumaru himself was walking amongst his soldiers, taking stock of their injuries and allowing his presence amongst them to signify his pride in their performance as his noble vassals. At last her gaze fell on Inuyasha and Kikyo.
The undead miko had proven more of a hindrance during the battle than an asset, though no one could claim it had been intentional. Her waning power left her little more than a target for Naraku; one he had exploited mercilessly until Kagome finally snapped. After the seventh time Inuyasha had had to fall back from battle to save the now helpless miko Kagome had screamed at him, "Get her out of here! You're both slowing us down and holding us back! Take her back to the barrier with the children and then return to be of use!" Inuyasha had been ready to argue the point, but seeing the angry and frustrated looks of his comrades, not to mention their allies he had nodded and scooped Kikyo up to run back to Kagome's barrier at top speed. After unceremoniously dumping her on the ground next to the kit and young girl he had spun about and returned to the battle, intent on protecting his love. He knew Kikyo was going to die and he was more than at peace with the idea, but that didn't mean he'd allow Naraku to kill her again, that had been his only reason for saving the deteriorating miko. Unfortunately Kagome did not know this. As she stood amongst the injured she gazed up at her once love as he held the dying miko in his arms, her body was failing and Kagome knew it. The stolen part of her soul was already seeking to rejoin her body.
Away from the demon army Inuyasha sat quietly with Kikyo in his lap for what he thought would be their final farewell. He wasn't heartbroken over what was transpiring, but he was sad for the fallen miko. Her life really had been one hardship after another much like his, and he thought it unfair she had had so little in life. He knew much of her sorrow was of her own making, but that didn't make him any less sorry for her. They had spoken softly as Kikyo laid in his arms, she knowing as well as he that her time was short when the exhausted form of Kagome cast a shadow over the two. Inuyasha looked up at Kagome, slightly startled, he felt sure she would not intrude on his farewell with Kikyo, she wasn't the sort. However, seeing the hardened expression in her eyes, despite her fatigue worried him and he asked, "Kagome?"
Kikyo stared up at Kagome through half lidded eyes, hoping against hope that all her planning and acting hadn't been for naught. She felt sure the foolish girl would play into her hands, but as she lay here on the brink of death, she couldn't help but doubt all her hard work. Glaring up at the young girl she asked with a shaky breath, "Will you not allow us to at least have this moment? This last chance to be together? Must you take this from me today as well?" She knew she risked Inuyasha's wrath with such words, but at the moment her manipulation of Kagome was more important. Inuyasha had plaid his part, now it was time to get Kagome where she needed her.
Kagome stared down at Kikyo with angry eyes, her fury a living thing inside her heart. But as she looked down into the pleading gaze of her hanyou (not realizing he was imploring her to understand he couldn't leave his former love until she was at rest, not because he didn't want to in order to be by her side) she let go of her anger. She had no right to be angry at someone for being in love, it was wrong and selfish, and she wanted no part of those things. Sighing she closed her eyes and grabbed onto the power within her as she fell to her knees beside the tragic lovers. Setting her hands on top of Kikyo's chest she used the last of her strength to cast her healing powers into the clay body, mending the weakest areas and giving what power she could to keep the undead miko from passing.
"Kagome! What are you doing!" Inuyasha couldn't contain his shock as he watched his soon-to-be-mate return life to his current mate, reanimating the clay shell of a body she inhabited. He couldn't understand why she would do such a thing. Why was she saving Kikyo now? What purpose did it serve? The miko could not walk the earth in this form forever, time and again her body would fail her. What point was there in prolonging her suffering? These were all questions he wanted answers for, but he would have to wait. Kagome had used the last of her strength and as she healed Kikyo's body enough to ensure the undead miko could walk amongst the living for at least a few more days, and her tired worn body crumpled to the ground when the task was complete.
Sesshoumaru had turned towards his brother and his clay doll when he felt the rising powers of the warrior miko he had fought beside this day. Though he would never admit it, he was awed by her power and cunning in battle. Never had he seen a human fight such as she, and he doubted he would again. His eyes widened a fraction as he watched the tired miko heal her undead rival before collapsing from exhaustion. The area was full of shocked silence, none understanding the miko's actions or the reason behind them. Sesshoumaru watched with aloof curiosity as Inuyasha dumped Kikyo from his lap and leapt to Kagome's side crying out her name in fear. The boy's anxiousness for the girl he loved apparent on his features. 'Really? Does the boy not understand that to show emotion allows your enemies and advantage over you?' His disdainful thoughts on his brother's behavior were stopped short when he saw the undead wench eyeing the living girl's neck speculatively, a place where he knew the jewel to be. Not wanting to risk the clay abomination getting her hands on the jewel and tainting it he moved to stand before his brother. "Inuyasha, the girl must be returned to the village for care. Take your clay doll and I shall carry the miko."
Inuyasha shot to his feet, full of indignant anger. "Now wait just a damn minute Sesshoumaru! Kagome is my woman, I'll be the one to carry her!"
Sesshoumaru cocked a brow at his brother, mindless to all who had turned to witness the altercation between the strained siblings. "Is she now? You're actions speak otherwise little brother."
"You don't know shit Sesshoumaru! Stay the hell away from Kagome!" Inuyasha leaned down to pick up the girl he loved when his brother grabbed his arm and halted his progress.
"And who will carry the corpse Inuyasha? Her soul collectors were destroyed in the battle, and it is apparent she hasn't the strength to walk very far. The true miko needs attention now." Sesshoumaru didn't understand why he felt compelled to carry the miko back to the safety of her village. Their alliance was at an end with the death of Naraku and the restoration of natural order, he owed her nothing. 'It must be because she protected Rin and healed my soldiers. That is the only explanation for my need to see to her welfare now. That and I do not want another Naraku to deal with should the walking corpse get her hands on the jewel. It is only necessary that this Sesshoumaru see to her protection until she is well again.'
"You carry Kikyo and I'll take Kagome," Inuyasha seethed through clenched teeth. He didn't like what was going on. He had been unnerved by Kagome and Sesshoumaru's behavior today enough as it was. Not to mention even he couldn't deny that they had been magnificent in battle together. Fighting side by side and back to back in many instances, both unleashing massive waves of energy to defeat their foe. He didn't want the two together any more. He had recognized the necessity of playing nice with his older brother for the sake of the alliance, but Naraku was dead, there was no reason for them to get along any more.
"I would never sully myself by allowing any part of that abomination to touch my person. Either leave the wench here to die, or get out of my way little brother." Sesshoumaru never took his predatory gaze from his kin, both ignoring the indignant gasp from the clay woman behind Inuyasha at his insult.
Inuyasha knew he had no alternative. For whatever reason Kagome had saved Kikyo today so he couldn't leave her behind. Turning to look at his comrades and seeing the look in their eyes he knew none of them would be willing to carry Kikyo, and so he had no other alternative. Backing away he watched Sesshoumaru gather his love in his arms before descending the hill and ordering his troops to take Rin back to his stronghold with the assurance he would follow shortly, once his duty to the miko was completed. Inuyasha's eyes never left the sight of his brother as he watched him gather his demonic energy to form his cloud and take flight towards their village. Reaching down Inuyasha jerked Kikyo up into his arms, ignoring the angry protest that fell from her lips and hollered to his friends, "Let's go!"
As he flew through the air towards the half breed's village Sesshoumaru couldn't stop his gaze from straying to the miko in his arms again and again. 'What is it about you onna that intrigues this Sesshoumaru?' Truthfully he had never really given the girl much thought until he had witnessed her kill the spider demons some time back. While he had always known she was a rare beauty amongst her pitiful race, and obviously of some intelligence since she knew how to read and write, he had never considered that there was anything exceptional about her. In fact he had always thought she was a waste of time and space. She was born with immeasurable power inside her as he was himself. However, instead of training herself ardently to ensure she could wield such power as he had, she had seemed content to let others care for her, and he could not abide anything that was useless. Yet she had changed. She had blossomed from the foolish child he had first met into a warrior priestess without equal. Her soul was bigger and purer than any he had ever known, and he again thought of how foolish his brother was to toss this girl aside for the mockery of a woman he had claimed as his mate.
Sesshoumaru had met Kikyo when she was alive. She had been young, the newly appointed priestess for her village and still fresh from training. Even then he could see the selfish side of her, the jealous zeal to have everything in life, as so many humans do. She hadn't known he was there when he had spied her in the woods gathering herbs. He had heard that there was a powerful new priestess acting as guardian over the jewel and had journeyed forth to determine for himself whether the rumors of her strength and skill were true. While she had proven to be above average in skill and innate power when he witnessed her strike down an oni with only her bow, he could tell much of the speculation that she was the reincarnation of Midoriko was false. The girl was talented yes, powerful and holy? Not quite. He had left her to her gathering and returned to his castle, never to waste another thought on the woman until she had been raised from the dead. And death, as far as he was concerned, had shown her true colors for all to see. Though his idiot brother seemed to still be under the delusion that Kikyo was of pure heart and mind. The fool. Casting one last glance down at the girl in his arms he determined that love was indeed a foolish emotion, and he was certain he wanted no part of it. His silent decision made he returned his gaze to the horizon as he carried the miko towards her home.
Inuyasha and the others landed in the village several hours after Sesshoumaru had arrived. They found him sitting casually outside of Kaede's hut with his back to the wall. He spared them not a glance as they approached. The mighty Inu Youkai Lord had already made the decision to remain until the wish had been made and the threat of the jewel removed, then he would take his leave, never to look upon his foolish brother and his entourage again he was sure. Sesshoumaru ignored Inuyasha's growl as the hanyou swept by him inside the hut to check on the girl.
Kikyo stood apart from the others as she watched the youkai lord. She was seething inside in anger at what the dog had said about her today. Implying that she, the great and powerful priestess Kikyo, was less than him. The audacity! She had been as shocked as the rest when the mighty youkai had insisted on carrying the girl, though her expression betrayed nothing, and she wondered what it was about this stupid girl that garnered her so much attention? She was upset that Inuyasha had relented to say the least. She was hoping to convince him to allow them to wait out Kagome's condolence in the clearing and perhaps she could have found an opportunity to obtain the jewel herself, and then she wouldn't have to play the hanyou's whore anymore to regain life. Well, that plan was out as they were now in the village and she knew no one here would allow her close to the girl while she was unconscious and Kikyo knew she had no hope of overtaking the girl and getting the jewel when she was awake. She'd have to hope that her plan worked out as planned.
Miroku and Sango sat a little ways away from Sesshoumaru, and as far away from Kikyo as possible while still being near the hut in case Kagome needed them. They spoke in hushed tones, though both knew Sesshoumaru was privy to every word from their lips with his demonic hearing as they discussed their friend and comrade and the battle that had taken place today. Shippo was chasing Kilala around in as she helped distract the kit from the issue of Kagome's disappearance inside the hut, and his not being allowed inside until Kaede gave the all clear.
Inside, Inuyasha sat as close to Kagome as possible without actually being on top of her. He watched Kaede work over the girl, chanting and praying, while mixing together a tea she assured him would help restore Kagome's strength. Kagome's condition was not life threatening to be sure, but he still wanted her awake, and now. He wanted to know why she had chosen to save Kikyo when the undead priestess was the only barrier between them and their future together, though Kagome was unaware of this he assumed. He wanted to know why she had been so cold to him today, and he wanted to reassure her that he had no interest in Kikyo, he had only been trying to make her last day here on earth as painless as possible. There was no love between him and Kikyo and he suddenly felt that it was important he make sure Kagome understand this as soon as possible.
Kagome felt awareness return to her slowly. Her body was sore and lethargic and she knew it was because she had used up to much of her energy far too quickly. As her eyes fluttered open and adjusted to the dimness of the hut she met the sight of a worried Inuyasha as he bent over her asking her if she was ok. When she felt sure she could move her limbs without falling she sat up and drew her legs under her. "I'm fine Inuyasha, just tired."
"Feh! Stupid wench, you shouldn't have wasted so much of your energy healing people," Inuyasha mumbled, trying to cover up his concern since he knew Sesshoumaru was right outside and could hear every word they spoke.
"Inuyasha, ye leave Kagome alone. Child, here is some tea to help you regain your strength. I also made some miso soup since I know it is your favorite. Eat and drink, replenish what ye have used," Kaeda said gently a she handed the girl she thought of as her daughter a cup of tea and a bowl of soup.
Kagome smiled her thanks at the old woman and settled herself to drink and eat what was offered. The tea warmed her body and she could feel its healing properties already working on her tired form. The soup was delicious, nearly as good as her Mama's cooking, and she ate every last drop. When she was done she stood on somewhat shaky legs, brushing Inuyasha's arm aside when he tried to take hold of her waist to steady her. "I'm fine Inuyasha, I can walk on my own. You should be checking on Kikyo, neh?"
Inuyasha jerked back as though she had slapped him. Her words had been soft and without accusation but they had hurt him nonetheless. "Look….Kagome about today…"
"It's alright Inuyasha, I understand," Kagome said with a soft smile, trying desperately to hide the heartbreak she felt.
"You do?" Inuyasha couldn't contain his hopeful smile that maybe Kagome understood why he couldn't leave Kikyo to die in battle, that she understood his need to ease her passing from this earth so they could start their life together when his former love was at peace.
"You cannot turn your back on the past Inuyasha, I know this now. It's fine, really," Kagome said before walking out of the hut with the hanyou behind her.
All eyes turned to the miko as she exited the hut. She appeared tired and worn, but not nearly as much as she had been on the battle field. Smiling at her friends and seeing their worried expressions she said, "It's time to get this done."
Together they all made their way towards the God tree, where Kagome had decided was where she would make her wish. Hopefully it was selfless and pure on her part and the jewel would disappear forever. Inuyasha, Kikyo, Miroku, Sango, Kaede, Shippo, Kilala and Sesshoumaru all stood around Kagome as she clutched the jewel in her hands and closed her eyes to make her wish.
When Kagome opened her eyes after making her wish she found herself surrounded by nothingness. Everywhere she looked there was only grayness, and a sense of time standing still. Suddenly there was a light amongst her dim surroundings and she shielded her eyes as it came closer and closer, glowing brighter and brighter before it dissolved into the form of a woman. Kagome was awestruck as she whispered, "Midoriko."
The ancient miko smiled at the miko from the future and said, "Hello Kagome, I have waited for this moment. You are all we dreamed you would be and more."
"We?" Kagome was unsure about what was going on, and she was more than a little worried about what was going to happen.
"Oh yes, there are many who had a hand in your creation child, as there will be many who have a hand in your future." Midoriko stepped towards the young girl and laid a gentle hand on her cheek as she continued, "You are hope itself Kagome, a light amongst the dark, the path not yet taken, and we have waited long for you."
"Who's we?"
"That is not important now, when the time comes all will be revealed to you. For now I would like to understand why you made the wish you did." Midoriko took a seat on the ground, if you could call it that in the void they were in, and gestured for Kagome to sit beside her.
Kagome situated herself beside the famous miko and met her gaze without fear as she replied, "Because I love him."
Midoriko observed the young miko beside her with a sense of motherly pride. While this girl was of no relation to her, she couldn't help but feel a part of her, and in essence she was. This girl, who had a heart so big and pure, a soul brighter than any before her or those yet to come, was the hope for the future. The battle she had fought this day was nothing in comparison to the one she would face in the future. She had a hard path ahead of her, and yet those who had helped to bring her forth in this world were unafraid. For Kagome was as simple as she was powerful, love is what drove her, and love would always be her strength. "And for you, it is truly so simple daughter of my heart."
Kagome smiled sadly at the warrior miko at her side before she looked out into the nothingness and said, "And yet it is never easy, is it?"
Stroking a hand down Kagome's long locks Midoriko drew the girl into her arms as the young priestess let loose her control and cried into her chest. She cried for the loss of her first love, she cried for all who had been lost to the evil hanyou with delusions of greatness, she cried for her sister Sango who had lost her brother and yet found true love in the arms of a lecherous monk, she cried for her adopted son Shippo who had lost his family and found a new one amongst humans and a hanyou, she cried for her Inuyasha and all he had endured and would endure for being different, and she cried for the simple sake of crying, glad that the battle was over and Naraku defeated. "Shh, young one, shed no more tears. You have walked the path set before you with honor and selflessness. Never have you turned from one with need, or backed down from a challenge simply because you were afraid. You are mighty Kagome, and I am honored to be here speaking with you."
Kagome sat up in shock at Midoriko's words. Her eyes were puffy and swollen from her sobs and she was sure she looked a mess, but all she saw in the ancient priestess's eyes was love, compassion, respect and admiration. She was truly humbled. "Please Midoriko-sama, it is I who am honored."
"Well we can both be honored then can't we," Midoriko joked softly. When Kagome smiled Midoriko pressed forward. "It is time to make difficult choices Kagome, and I am sorry you must be faced with them so soon, but time is not on our side. My essence and power are fading, my battle within the jewel has depleted me and I long for eternal rest."
"Please Midoriko, do not let me keep you from your well deserved rest, go be at peace," Kagome begged. Angry with herself for forcing the ancient miko to linger.
"Not yet Kagome, and blame not yourself for my presence. I chose to be here, and am honored to be the one to deliver our message to you." When Kagome merely continued to stare at her she continued, "We know that you made the wish to restore life to the former priestess so that she and Inuyasha may live together in happiness. You wished with all your heart for them to have the life stolen from them by Naraku, but what if I were to tell you that Inuyasha does not wish for this? Would you seek to make a life with him if he were to tell you he does not desire the miko Kikyo over you?"
Kagome was silent a moment as she contemplated this. Coming to a decision. "No. I love Inuyasha Midoriko, I really do, but at some point you look at someone and all you see are the betrayals and hurtful things done to you. I want him to be happy. I want him to have a life all his own, I just don't think it can be with me. If Inuyasha had truly loved me as I loved him, he would never have lied to me and taken Kikyo as his mate behind my back. There can be no future between us as man and wife because I will never be able to fully trust him. We can never be mates. Even if you decide not to grant my wish and return Kikyo to life, I cannot make my own with Inuyasha."
Midoriko nodded her head and asked, "Will you seek love again my child? Or has the heartbreak you have suffered turned you away from the thought?"
"Of course I will try to find love again Midoriko-sama. What is life if there is no love? That would be like having lungs but no air to breathe. I believe that love is what holds this world together while hate seeks to tear it apart. I want to be part of the fabric miko-sama. I want to find someone to grow old with, someone to love and be loved by, someone to start a family with, someone to hold at night when the darkness tries to overtake me. I want to love Midoriko-sama because I know no other way." Kagome's voice was firm and steady as she made her declaration.
Midoriko smiled at Kagome as she said, "You truly are the best of us my child. Now I must tell you of what lies ahead. As you know Kagome, Naraku was defeated but not destroyed. This is all part of his plan my child, and there is no way we can stop it now. Things are already in motion to set the stage for the final battle in the future. The ultimate fight between good and evil, and you will be called upon again to fight, to sacrifice more of yourself than you have before."
"I can only promise to fight as long and as hard as my heart will let me Midoriko-sama, no more."
"Believe me Kagome, that will be enough. But now I must deliver unpleasant news. Kikyo was late in meeting you today because she returned to the village to destroy the well. It is no longer a portal to the future, simply a well. You cannot return to your time through it."
Kagome couldn't stop the heartbroken cry that fell from her lips as she begged, "Why! Why would she do that!"
"Kikyo was never the miko many believed her to be. She was born with talent, but her heart was never fully pure. In death her greed and selfishness have only become more apparent. She has manipulated you and Inuyasha time and again. She does not love the hanyou Kagome, she never did. Nor did she ever want him for her own. She lusted after him. She convinced him to take her as his mate, claiming it would only be until her body failed her so that he could then be with you. She used his guilt to convince him, promising him you would never know. It was always her intention for you to find out though, she knew of your kind heart and your love for Inuyasha, she knew you would restore her to life if you thought it was what made him happy." Midoriko could not keep her disgust for the fallen miko from her voice as she related the crimes she had committed to the girl before her.
"But if she knew I would give her back her life why did she destroy my way home? It doesn't make sense!" Kagome was heartbroken that she would never see her family again. That she would be stuck in the past with no one to love.
"It does not make sense to you Kagome because your heart is too pure to understand the evil intentions behind Kikyo's actions. Kikyo wanted your soul Kagome; she believed that if you made the wish to restore her to life and she had sealed off your way home, then you would die so she could live. She assumed life would be restored to her through the completion of Urusae's spell. That your soul would leave your body to inhabit hers, giving her life once more. She doesn't just want to live again Kagome, she wants you to die. You are all she is not, and will never be and she despises you for it."
Kagome was in shock. She had known that Kikyo had a mean streak in her, her repeated attempts to kill her proved that, but she had never imagined the miko capable of this. "So what happens now?"
"Kikyo's actions have caused us to make arrangements for your future. We had always planned you would return through the well once the battle here was done, and you would take up your fight there, but now the well is gone. So we have come up with an alternative. We will place a spell on you freezing you in time and place you under the guardianship of one we know will protect you until you are ready to wake 500 years in the future. One whose honor is without fault and will have the strength and power to ensure your body is guarded through the times to come. To you not a day will have passed, you will leave this place and awaken to the world you were born to, no memory of any of the time that has gone by."
Kagome sat staring at Midoriko in shock, none of this was what she had expected, not at all. "So I'll never see any of them again? Miroku, Sango, Shippo, Inuyasha, I'll never see them again? I'm just going to wake up and be back home like none of this ever happened?"
"Not quite my dear, you will remember everything, and it will most certainly not be as though none of this has ever happened. It would be as though you leapt back through the well to your time to return to your family, only instead of jumping you will wake up in the care of your guardian who will then see you home. As for seeing your friends again that is up to them, if it is their choice there is a way they can be with you again, though it must be their choice."
Kagome was silent for a moment before saying, "Alright let's do it, but first I need several promises and assurances from you."
"I can only promise to do what I can Kagome, what is in my power to do. As for the assurances, well tell me what it is you wish to know and I will give you an answer, whether it alleviates any worry you have or not." Midoriko was proud of the girl for handling her circumstances as well as she was, most would be hysterical by now.
"First I want to know that Inuyasha will be happy one day, that he will find love again and have a life and family all his own."
"Inuyasha still has much to learn, and more than a little heart break headed his way Kagome, but one day he will find happiness, the Kamis have written it." Midoriko was not surprised that Kagome would want to be sure her once love would be happy. She may no longer desire a future with him because of his betrayal, but never would she want him to suffer.
"Good. Now I want you to promise me you'll deliver a message to my friends since I won't be able to do it myself." When the ancient Miko nodded Kagome continued, "First to my son Shippo. Tell him I love him very much and I hope to see him again one day. Tell him I was always proud of him, and I want him to continue drawing, laughing and playing his whole life. I want him to grow up to be a strong demon, and never be afraid to show love and compassion. To my brother Miroku, tell him to watch his hands. Tell him to cherish every day he and Sango have together, he should know better than anyone that time is fleeting. Tell him I always appreciated his humor and I will miss his wit. To my sister Sango, tell her she is the strongest woman I know and I am honored to call her the sister of my heart. Tell her she taught me to be a better woman, and there was never a time when I did not admire her. To Kaede, tell her thanks for putting up with my stubbornness. Tell her I can never thank her enough for all she taught me and for the home she provided us with when we returned weary from our travels. Tell her she was like a second mother to me and I will never forget her." Kagome couldn't stop the tears from spilling from her eyes as she spoke, especially not when she came to her last message.
"For Inuyasha, tell him I loved him deeply. Tell him I want nothing more than for him to find happiness in life. Tell him that no matter what anyone says he is a good and honorable man. Tell him he is perfect just the way he is and anyone who has a problem with him being a hanyou is the one that is lacking. Tell him I forgive him for everything and not to blame himself. Tell him that despite everything that went wrong between us, I wouldn't change history even a little. I learned a lot from him, and am thankful for every moment we shared together. Will you tell them this?"
Midoriko placed her hand atop Kagome's and said, "I will deliver your messages Kagome, be assured, but now it is time for you to rest," and with that her hands began to glow and Kagome was surrounded in a brilliant light as she succumbed to a powerful sleep that would last 500 years.
Back on earth all those present stared up at Kagome's body hovering in the air. As she had closed her eyes to make her wish her body had been surrounded in light and began to levitate before them all. That had been a good ten minutes ago, and still none of them knew what was going on. They had all attempted to touch the miko, to bring her back to the ground, but she seemed to have some kind of barrier around her that prevented them from getting close.
"You fools, the girl is seeking to use the jewel to further her own power! She should never have been entrusted with the wish! I should have been the one to purify the jewel," Kikyo hissed as she watched the girl float in the air before her.
"Shut your mouth Kikyo! Kagome would never do that!" Inuyasha said, never taking his eyes from the woman he loved.
"Beside you couldn't purify it if you wanted to, you barely have the power to stand, and you only have that because Kagome was kind enough to heal you you walking clay pot!" Sango seethed in anger at the undead woman.
"Silence," Sesshoumaru's baritone voice commanded. He had noticed the light was fading, and while he was loathe to admit it he was curious as to what had happened.
Shocked silence filled the air as Kagome's body was lowered to the earth and behind her appeared Midoriko. She smiled at them gently as she spoke. "My friends, I have come baring news of our precious miko, and messages she asked me to deliver to you all, but first there is the matter of a wish to settle. Kikyo, come forth."
Kikyo didn't even attempt to hide her victorious smirk as she brushed past Inuyasha to stand before her incarnation. "Midoriko, I am the Priestess Kikyo, your reincarnation…"
"Silence woman! You are no reincarnation of mine, and you are a pitiful excuse for a miko. You have no right to that title, and after today it will never precede your name again." Midoriko's voice was harsh as she continued on, "You have toyed with the living long enough, and in your quest to cause pain to those you considered lesser you have disturbed the plans of the Kamis themselves. You're selfishness knows no bounds, and you will suffer greatly for your crimes."
"Midoriko-sama, I know not of what you speak," Kikyo attempted pitifully, though she knew the ancient miko could see through her façade.
"You dare to lie to me? You dare to try to make me your fool? You truly are an incompetent Kikyo, but it is time for you to get your just rewards. You're plan worked. You manipulated Inuyasha's guilt to force him into taking you as his mate." There were shocked gasps from all in attendance as Inuyasha's ears lowered and he too listened to what the famed miko had to say, "and worse yet you manipulated the pure, loving heart of this remarkable girl so that she would use the wish to restore you to life, robbing herself of one with the hanyou you care naught for but as a tool. The sight of you disgusts me, but a pure wish was made. A selfless wish that has purified the jewel out of existance, so it shall be granted."
Kikyo withstood the abuse, certain that it was worth it as long as she could claim the soul of the girl as it restored her to life. The feeling of triumph and victory building in her chest was not damped in the least by having her foul deeds exposed to all. What did she care what these people thought of her? She would be gone to live her own life somewhere soon enough.
Midoriko saw Kikyo's smirk as she pressed on, "But your plan in stealing Kagome's soul will not work. You will be returned to life, but with your own soul, returning the borrowed piece of Kagome's to her at once."
"What! No! That is my soul, as is the power it contains! She is merely my reincarnation! She has no right to it!" Kikyo wailed, infuriated that the warrior miko before her was thwarting her plans.
"Silence! Kagome is not your reincarnation. She is no one's reincarnation. Kagome is a new soul, forged by the gods themselves, and you do not deserve to even breathe the same air as her. Her resemblance to you was intentional, we needed her and Inuyasha to make a bond so that they could have the strength to see this quest through to the end, but she was never a part of you. You will be given life again through your own soul, but restored as a common ningen with no holy powers to speak of. You have lost the right to act as priestess with your heinous crimes to one so pure." Midoriko finished her speech by holding out her hand as a flash of bright light erupted from her palm and hit Kikyo square in the chest causing her to glow. The souls of the girls she had stolen shot out of her body and headed for the heavens, all save one bright ball of light that circled Kagome's slumbering form before melting into her skin.
Kikyo could feel the coldness of her clay body evaporating as her she warmed. Clay became flesh and she set her hand over her heart as she felt the first steady beat. A smile graced her lips as she whispered, "I live."
"Yes you live, by Kagome's kindness alone. Now you and your mate are free to pursue whatever life it is you wish," Midoriko stated.
"Wait! This isn't right! Kikyo was supposed to die so that I could take Kagome as my mate!" Inuyasha demanded. He had listened to Midoriko reveal every heinous crime Kikyo had committed and anger had built within him. Had he been a man of lesser honor he would have struck her down.
"Look upon her shoulder Inuyasha, your mark still stands, the bond stronger now that your mate is no longer the living dead. You have made your choice, and now you must accept the consequences. Kagome is lost to you," Midoriko admonished softly. While she was angry with the hanyou for his short sightedness, she still felt for him. He had had a hard life, but beneath it all he was a good man. He just kept making the wrong decisions, and he needed to learn to think before he acted. His brash ways had already cost him so much.
Inuyasha rushed to Kagome's side and gathered up the sleeping girl in his arms as he begged, "Kagome! No please don't leave me! It was a mistake! It is you I love! Please!"
Miroku and Sango looked at Inuyasha with pity in their eyes. While they were angry with their friend over his betrayal, they understood his pain at what he had lost. They knew he loved the futuristic miko, and now he had lost her through his own foolishness. Shippo was crying softly, not understanding what was going on, but knowing it must be bad if it had Inuyasha crying. Kaeda looked upon the hanyou she knew so well with sadness and regret, her fears for his future growing by the second. Kikyo had regained her feet and stood some distance away, taking in the sight with a neutral expression as she waited to see how this would all play out. Without her miko powers, she might need to keep Inuyasha around for awhile until she could find another means to support herself so she would behave for now. Sesshoumaru, as always, appeared disinterested in everything that was happening, but secretly he was stunned by the events, and would remain to see what else transpired. He was nothing if not curious.
"It will do you no good Inuyasha, she will not wake. Not for many years," Midoriko informed the grieving hanyou gently. "Kikyo interfered with the hands of fate and we had to take measures to assure that Kagome would return to the future to fight the greatest battle still to come."
Now that caught Sesshoumaru's interest. "Battle?" What great battle was this girl needed for in the future?
Midoriko turned to smile at the DaiYoukai as she glided before him. "Lord Sesshoumaru of the Western Lands, at last we meet. We have been watching you for some time, and suffice to say you are more your father's son than we could have ever hoped."
"This Sesshoumaru resembles not that fool woman. He was weak and allowed himself to succumb to love, losing his empire in the process"
"So you say, one day you may think differently, but for now the Kamis would make a request of you. A challenge so to speak." Midoriko knew the Western Lord could never back down from a challenge, and she needed him to accept this responsibility, he was the only one strong enough to see it through to the end.
Sesshoumaru eyed up the warrior miko before him before nodding his head and saying, "This Sesshoumaru will overcome any challenge the Kamis set before him, be assured."
"We shall see. This miko Lord Sesshoumaru, is more powerful than any before her, including me, or any that will come after. Her soul was forged by the Kamis themselves with pieces of their own, which is the reason behind her immeasurable strength. Only she will be able to battle the darkness that looms ahead. The future of this world is dark, and there is much death looming on the horizon. She will bring back the light, and restore balance to the natural order. She was always meant to return home through the well, so that she could take up her struggle on the other side, but Kikyo has destroyed the well and it is no longer a portal through time." Midoriko held Sesshoumaru's gaze, wanting him to understand the importance of the girl lying in Inuyasha's arms.
Sesshoumaru looked down upon the onna cradled to his little brother's chest. 'Is her soul really made up from those of the kamis? Is she truly so powerful?' All these questions and more were floating around in Sesshoumaru's head and he didn't like that there were no answers. "What is that you seek from this Sesshoumaru?"
"She must be guarded. We have placed a spell on her body that will keep her from waking for 500 years. To her not a day will have gone by, to you centuries, but she will not have the means to protect herself. Many will come to seek to destroy her or capture her for their own use, her soul being a source of unlimited power. We need someone to protect her and the jewel containing Naraku's soul until she is ready to wake once more. We need you Lord Sesshoumaru. You are the only one with the strength, skill and honor to see this task through."
Inuyasha was finally brought out of his stupor by Midoriko's words as he jumped to his feet with Kagome in his arms and declared, "I will protect her! I've always protected Kagome and now is no different. I'll take care of her until she wakes up, and then I'll fix this so we can be together."
Midoriko smiled gently at Inuyasha as she replied, "You're time as the girl's guardian is done Inuyasha. She is yours no more. You have not the strength or skill to guard this girl from the dangers that await, this task is your brother's. Kagome asked me to deliver a message to you Inuyasha. Kagome wanted you to know that she forgives you for everything, and she wants you to know that she did love you, deeply. She wants you to find happiness in life as hanyou. She told me you are a good and honorable man and she wants only the best for you. She wanted me to tell you that no matter what has happened between the two of you, she regrets nothing. She told me she wouldn't trade a moment of her time with you."
Inuyasha sank to the ground with Kagome's limp form cradled in his arms. The events of today were simply too much in the wake of their fierce battle. He couldn't handle it all and was literally speechless.
Midoriko turned to the others in the clearing and continued on. Her time was short but she had promised Kagome. "Miroku, Kagome wanted me to tell you to watch your hands. She said you were her brother and she wants you to cherish each day you have with Sango. She said you'd understand that time is fleeting. She wanted me to tell you she appreciated your humor and will miss your wit. Sango, Kagome called you the sister of her heart. She said she was honored to know you and that she thought you were the strongest woman she had ever met, and she thanks you for helping her to be a better woman."
Sango and Miroku held each other as tears filled their eyes at their friends parting words, both unaware of the offer Midoriko intended to make to them soon. Midoriko's eyes turned to Kaede as she pressed on, "Kaede, Kagome thanked you for making a home for her and her companions here. She said you were like a second mother to her and she is grateful for all you taught her. She apologizes for her stubbornness."
"She was the best of us all Midoriko-sama, and I am honored to have called her daughter," Kaede said, unashamed of the tear that leaked from her eye.
"As am I Kaede-sama, as am I," Midoriko agreed before turning to the crying kitsune. "Shippo," she called softly. When the boy looked up at her with heartbroken eyes she said, "Kagome said she was honored to call you son. She hopes to see you again one day, but until then she wants you to be happy. She wants you to live and laugh and play your way through life. She wanted me to tell you to never be afraid to show compassion and love, and for you to grow up a strong and honorable demon."
Her promise to the young miko fulfilled, Midoriko turned her gaze once more on the demon lord as she asked, "What is your answer Lord Sesshoumaru? Will you accept this task from the Kamis?"
Sesshoumaru looked hard at the ancient miko before him as he considered all that had happened. 'Do I really want to take on the responsibility of guarding the body of an unconscious miko for 500 years?' Staring down at the girl and taking in her angelic face he decided he would. Besides from the sound of it, the task would be a great challenge requiring him to prove his cunning and superiority again and again. Things he was born to do. Meeting Midoriko's gaze he nodded his head and said, "This Sesshoumaru accepts the task. The Miko Kagome is now under my protection."
Midoriko nodded her head with a smile, grateful the lord had agreed. "On behalf of the Kamis and myself, we thank you." Midoriko then turned to Sango and Miroku as she said, "Now the two of you have a choice. Shippo and Inuyasha will live to see Kagome again as long as they manage to make it through life without getting killed before she wakes. You however, are mortal, and you're bodies will turn to dust long before such a time. So the Kamis offer you this choice; you will be granted the lifespan of a demon. No other gifts will be bestowed upon you other than longevity. It will be up to you whether you make it through the hard times ahead, but if you fail it will not be because of old age. You will age not a day from this moment forth until Kagome awakens, at which time you will begin to age normally as any other human. Our purpose in offering you this gift is that Kagome will need you in the future. The battle she will face will be the battle to end all battles. The fight between good and evil itself, and she should not have to stand alone. So what say you?"
Miroku and Sango looked deep into each other's eyes before nodding at one another and facing Midoriko. Miroku stepped forward and said, "We accept your offer. We will be there for our friend as she has been there for us." Miroku and Sango were silent as Midoriko laid her hands on them and a brilliant light surrounded their bodies. When it was done Sango asked, "If you can prolong our lives, why didn't you just do the same for Kagome? Why does she have to spend the next 500 years asleep?"
Midoriko smiled at the slayer as she said, "Kagome's heart is strong, but even the strongest stone breaks under enough pressure. She has loved and lost, but she will love again. The Kamis have written it, we just have to wait for her love to be ready for her and the time to be right. That will not happen if she lives out the next 500 years with the rest of you. Despair not warrior woman, you shall see your sister again, I am certain of it. For now, my time is done. My messages delivered. My task complete. I thank you all for your parts in freeing me from the jewel." Midoriko stepped back and she was surrounded in light once more before she slowly faded from view.
Sesshoumaru looked down on his brother still cradling the miko in his arms, whispering how sorry he was over and over. The Western Lord allowed the display for a few moments longer before he said, "Inuyasha you will release your hold on the miko. This Sesshoumaru departs and he will take his charge with him."
"No! You're not taking her from me! Kagome is mine! She was always mine and she will always be mine!" Inuyasha was nearly insane with grief. He didn't understand how things had turned out this way. He and Kagome were supposed to be laying in each other's arms right now, making plans for their wedding and their future together. He was not supposed to be fighting his brother over her limp form for the right to protect her as his previously dead mate stood not too far away once again among the living. His world had shattered today, and he was unsure of the future.
"Inuyasha, you heard Midoriko's words. The Kamis have assigned the task of guarding Kagome to Sesshoumaru. You must release her. You will see her again, we all will. Remember Midoriko said that not a day will have passed for Kagome, you can make amends to her when she wakes, but for now you must relinquish her to Sesshoumaru," Miroku reasoned with a gentle voice.
Inuyasha looked up at Miroku with broken eyes. His mind was chaos and he couldn't tell which way was up. Turning his head to gaze about the clearing his eyes settled on Kikyo's form standing by the tree line. She looked smug about what had happened and it pissed him off. Looking down at Kagome he knew he couldn't keep her with him right now. Especially not with Kikyo still in the picture. Turning his gaze to Sesshoumaru he said through clenched teeth, "You had better look after her Sesshoumaru. If anything happens to her I'll kill you. I swear it."
"This Sesshoumaru has never failed at anything he has given his word to do half breed. I have sworn to protect the miko and the jewel she forged out of Naraku's soul until she wakes, and thus it will be done." Sesshoumaru waited for Inuyasha to stand and set the girl in his arms, the pouch containing Naraku's soul secure at her waist. Sparing no one else in the clearing a glance he took to the air to return to his castle. 'So it seems our journey is not yet complete little miko, curious. We shall see what the future holds for you and I,' he thought as he soared through the sky, leaving Kagome's former companions to sort through the chaos the purification of the jewel had left in its wake.