Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or company, just the characters I've created. Rumiko Takahashi owns the rights to Inuyasha.
III. Arami Tama - Courage
The fighters hadn't really split up, but they had fanned out, taking on their opponents with well-honed skill and trust in each other. Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru were the ones attempting to get closer to Naraku while the rest covered their backs. Miroku, Sango and Kagome destroyed the lesser youkai and some of the stronger ones, Miroku always careful of the ever-present poison bees. The hell creatures were protecting their stronger foes, the more powerful youkai, and it was up to Kagome and Sango to get rid of them. Inuyasha had gone into the fight with his usual brashness and enthusiasm, not backing down from any opponent, whatever its size or danger. Sesshoumaru had stayed by his side, the two brothers cutting up numerous opponents, keeping each other's back. He had marveled about Inuyasha's style before. Nothing seemed to scare the young hanyou. Even if there was fear, it disappeared behind a mask of determination and bravery. He would never run from a fight, whatever the outcome might be, and while his rudeness covered up his own feelings, his deeds backed them up. Still, they got separated by the sheer number of creatures, and Inuyasha was soon in the middle of a vicious trade of blows and punches with a blue, fanged thing on two legs, snapping and spitting at him. Its spittle dissolved even rocks. Sesshoumaru disposed of some unfortunate youkai trying to go up against the Toukijin, but was suddenly faced with an unexpected opponent. He looked at the little girl, his brows drawing slightly together. Her face was completely without emotions, the eyes black as night while her skin white as snow. The hair was straight and no breeze lifted it. She held an exquisite mirror and while she wasn't looking at him, he knew she was aware he was there. "Intriguing," her voice sounded. It was soft, that of a child but still so much older, and inflectionless. "You have a soul." He almost physically moved back. What? "It is so rare in youkai kind. Let me have it." She turned the mirror about a quarter and its reflective surface started to glow. And then the pain started. Toukijin clattered to the ground as his hands opened involuntarily. Agony ripped through his chest and through tearing eyes, Sesshoumaru watched in horror as a white mist began to form around him, wafting in the air. It moved toward the mirror. "You fight it, youkai. You are strong. But even a youkai soul cannot resist me." He screamed. Sesshoumaru had felt pain before, had been in battles where he had been wounded, and his own brother had cut his left arm off while he had been in his true demon form, but none of those injuries and their pain compared to this. None at all. This was slicing him apart… slicing his soul apart. The world began to waver, white out around the edges, and his knees gave way. "Come to me," the girl whispered enchantingly.
*
Kagome had used her arrows as best as possible. There were so many youkai here, fighting to keep them from where Naraku was hiding, and it was almost impossible to keep them all under control. Inuyasha was using Tetsuseiga to eliminate them in huge groups, and Sango and Kirara added their own skills. A scream pierced the battle-heavy air. It spoke of soul-deep pain, of an agony that made him shiver. "Sesshoumaru!" Inuyasha yelled and there was an undertone of fright in his voice. Before the hanyou could move two steps to where his brother was, new monsters attacked him. Kagome looked over to Sesshoumaru and she discovered Kanna and her mirror, drawing something that looked suspiciously like a soul out of the tall youkai. A soul…? In a youkai..?! Kaede had once told her that monsters had no soul, but Kagome had never really believed it. All things had souls; everyone had feelings… Sesshoumaru went down on his knees, his eyes wide, his mouth open in a silent scream. Kagome's features settled in an angry expression and she raised her bow and arrow. She had defeated Kanna once… she could do it again. She pulled back an arrow and aimed for the mirror. "Stupid girl," Kanna whispered as she discovered Kagome. "Your arrows are useless against an empty mirror." Kagome clenched her jaws. Last time the mirror had been overflowing from too many souls and the arrow had simply been the last straw on the camel's back, but now… "We'll see about that," she hissed and let the projectile fly. Engulfed in a pink light, the arrow headed unerringly for the evil mirror, but instead of hitting the reflective surface, it buried itself in the silver frame. Kagome was aghast. She had never missed… Kanna looked at the still glowing mirror, then the child-like face suddenly showed surprise – in a very detached way. From the entry point of the mirror, cracks ran through the frame, growing in number and size until the whole frame was nothing but an unstable collection of shards. "She destroyed the mirror," she murmured. Suddenly the surface burst into a million parts and the child rocked back, her arms spreading from her body, and her impassive face gazed at Kagome. Within a heartbeat, she evaporated into the nothingness she had come from. Sesshoumaru fell forward, catching himself with his hands, breathing hard. His eyes were wide open, shock displayed in their golden depths, and disbelief in his expression. "Sesshoumaru!" Kagome called and ran to him. "Are you okay?" The youkai lord staggered to his feet, reaching for Toukijin. "What was that thing?" "Kanna. Another detachment from Naraku. She was Nothingness. Her mirror can draw out souls." The golden eyes, still whirling with the experience, met Kagome's. She knew what he had felt, though she had never felt pain. Just the heavy, leaden feeling of no longer being in control of her body… Sesshoumaru straightened and turned around, hand clenching around Toukijin. "It's time to end this."
* * *
The barrier around Naraku's misshapen body shattered and Inuyasha smiled ferally. "Gotcha!" he growled. Tentacles whipped toward him and he slashed at them with the Tetsuseiga, obliterating them immediately. Sesshoumaru watched the fast, elegant moves of his brother as he approached their common enemy, noting with satisfaction that Inuyasha had indeed gotten better. A lot better. "Haven't you learned?" Naraku said, voice soft. "You cannot destroy me. I will always be there." Inuyasha landed in a crouch from his last somersault and his fangs glinted in a cold smile. "Sesshoumaru!" he yelled and the older brother turned. Tetsuseiga was tossed into the air and the youkai caught it easily, again amazed that the sword would let him touch it. It felt different than before when he had managed to get a hold of it. There was power sizzling through it that hadn't been there before. It had evolved; it had become the weapon their father had wanted it to be. Only one who holds what has been shattered Who carries the blade made of a dog's fang Given to him out of love and not of hate Love? Did Inuyasha hold any love for him? They had talked more than he would have thought in the weeks at the palace. He had come to an understanding about this man, about his half brother, and something had changed. In both of them. For the future. But love? Tetsuseiga had accepted him… "So you are the chosen one?" Naraku said, almost bored, drawing him out of his musings. "I'm your death, Naraku," Sesshoumaru growled. The ground broke open and with a burst of speed, more tentacles appeared, wrapping themselves around Sesshoumaru's ankles. The demon looked at them, face emotionless. Naraku's appendages were nothing against the sword. He raised it, about to cut through them, when his whole body froze.
Inuyasha watched as his brother caught Tetsuseiga. The sword didn't resist his touch and it seemed to hum and pulse in agreement to the move. Tentacles wrapped themselves around Sesshoumaru, intent on binding him, but Inuyasha knew there was nothing to stop Tetsuseiga now. And then Sesshoumaru froze, his body grew rigid, his features like made of stone. Naraku slithered closer, the abomination resembling more a snake with a thousand tails and writhing tentacles than anything human. Only his face was still that of Naraku, while his upper body was a puzzle made up from different youkai parts. A clawed hand reached out toward Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha gave a yell. He started to run toward his brother when he was stopped and rather unkindly grabbed by more tentacles, which flung him back against the solid stone wall of the fortress. The air was pushed out of his lungs and for the second it took him to regain his breath, he was immediately bound by more of Naraku's limbs. Spread-eagled, he hung in the air, his back aching, his wrists and ankles tightly bound, he looked down on the two opponents. Naraku didn't even deign him with a glance. He just placed the sharp claws of his right hand over Sesshoumaru's heart – and sank them into his skin. The youkai made no sound, despite the blood starting to flow, and Inuyasha screamed instead in denial. Fighting the vines, the tentacles, he tried to get one hand free to use his claws and rip them apart. All he managed to do was make them tighten around his limbs, his left wrist aching sharply. The pressure intensified until he heard the tell-tale snap of broken bones and he gave a hiss of pain. "Sesshoumaru!" he cried. "Snap out of it! You worthless asshole of a brother!" He continued to insult the other man, but there was no reaction at all. Still like a statue, Tetsuseiga hanging uselessly by his side, Sesshoumaru let Naraku up close and personal. "You were a wonderful toy, Sesshoumaru-same," the creature whispered, lips right next to his ear. "How about we play a last game? One of mind against mind?" Inuyasha increased his struggles, uncaring of the injuries he was inflicting upon himself, while his brother just stayed still, eyes empty… like Kohaku's. Mind against mind, Inuyasha thought desperately. No!
* * *
Miroku was hard-pressed to keep up with the non-stop flow of youkai battering against this barriers, dying under his ofuda and staff blows. They weren't very powerful, but their number was endless and for the dozen he killed, two dozen appeared. He couldn't use the kazaana because of the bees, and his body was tiring. A scream of denial and anger pierced the air and his head whipped around. Violet eyes widened in shock as he saw his lover and Sesshoumaru. And Naraku. So close, so near… moving in toward Sesshoumaru, who seemed to be frozen to the spot. Inuyasha was twisting and screaming, trying to get out of the hold of hundreds of tentacles. "No," he whispered. Then a decisive expression settled over his features. "It's time to end this," Miroku growled and began to unwrap the seal around his kazaana. He felt its power awaken and stretched out his arm in front of him, supporting it with his left, and opened his right hand. The black hole came to life. And death came to the youkai foolish enough to rush toward him. Bees were sucked in as well and he felt the tell-tale stings of the poison starting to work. His body had been through this twice before. The first time it had almost immediately felled him; the second he had held out longer. Today Miroku planned to remain standing until it was over – one way or another.
* * *
Sesshoumaru was in a place where there was no up or down, no left or right. There was only nothingness. "What's on your mind, Sesshoumaru-sama," a voice whispered. "Or more precisely… what's in your mind." He turned, trying to find the source of the voice, but there was only the all-encompassing whiteness. That changed all of a sudden as he was almost physically flung forward. He landed in a forest, looking down what seemed to be a wide path. "Ah, yes, you remember that place, don't you? Let me add some hints…" The body of Rin appeared. She was older than the time he had found her, killed by wolves. This time the wounds hadn't been inflicted by teeth but… claws. Blood pooled underneath the girl. She had been gutted and her eyes were wide open, as if in surprise. The scene changed, like time had been turned back, and he was looking upon himself, standing in front of Rin. The girl was smiling at him, her face open and trusting, so admiring and adoring… But his own was changing, becoming more feral, his eyes turning red… glowing evilly… and his claws lashed out, striking her. Rin was whirled around by the force of his strike, mouth opening in a surprised 'oh'. Large, brown eyes looked at him, wanting to know, unable to understand… Sesshoumaru felt something rip through him. A kind of physical pain that he had never experienced before. "She means a lot to you, right?" the voice wanted to know, taunting him. Naraku, he thought. "She's human, Sesshoumaru-sama. You're a demon, a monster. What do you think the monster does with its prey?" He looked out over a battle field. Hundreds of humans had been slaughtered, all by his hands. They were bugs to him, worms, of no consequence. "You killed before, you took lives like they were nothing, but this one girl changed you." Rin's bloody, torn body appeared, empty eyes looking into the dark sky. "You care… oh, and not just for one human…" Naraku sounded intrigued as he dug deeper into the mind so open to him. "Jaken," it chuckled. "That little toad. I disposed of him. He cried for your help, but you didn't come…" Burned, pulverized and molten body parts. A trusted ally and friend, a servant who had been with him for most of his life, someone he had relied on to be there… Gone. "The great dog demon is gone, too. What did he leave you? Tenseiga, a useless sword. And what happened to the powerful Tetsuseiga? Your worthless brother received this almighty gift. He took your arm!" Naraku hissed. The pain raced through his left arm, phantom pain, a memory. Again he lived through the agonizing moment when the fang blade sliced off his left arm, left him bleeding heavily, as Inuyasha slashed again and again, wounding him. The wounds had taken long to heal. The pain had been sometimes unbearable. Sesshoumaru shuddered. "That hanyou brother of yours… so much stronger… so much more dangerous. So much closer to the youkai power you wanted than you could ever be." Red eyes glowed and sharp claws took him apart. Poison worked inside his body, his reflexes slowed, and finally he was looking into the merciless eyes of the person he had never expected to lose to. "Beg for mercy," the creature that was his brother whispered. Sesshoumaru's mouth opened for a scream, but no sound came out as the deadly strike tore out his throat, his heart, his spine, as his brother gouged himself on the bloody remains. "And you trust that mongrel? He did it once, he can do it again." Sesshoumaru was reeling under the renewed impact of old memories, of pain, despair and an agony that ran deep down into his soul. His soul. "Ah, yes, a soul. You developed feelings for Rin. You love a human girl… you love…" Naraku started to laugh evilly. "You love a human." Sango materialized. Beautiful, enchanting and strong Sango. Her body was cut and bruised, her face disfigured, and her uniform hung in tatters on her athletic body. Sesshoumaru's heart skipped a beat and he made an involuntary step forward. Sango's eyes widened in absolute terror and she threw up her arms, but nothing could stop the razor-sharp claws that took one off, that dug into her vulnerable flesh and right through her heart. The youkai lord screamed in denial as he looked at his blood-covered hands. Sango's body fell next to Rin's.
*
Inuyasha was bleeding heavily by now, his voice hoarse from yelling at his brother, but except for the occasional twitch, Sesshoumaru showed no signs of hearing him. He's under Naraku's control. Like Kohaku, he thought desperately. No! And then the golden eyes widened, an expression of intense suffering crossing the blank features, and Inuyasha froze in shock. He had never seen anyone, human or youkai, look like this. Like his worst nightmare had materialized… "Sesshoumaru!" A new voice could be heard and Inuyasha twisted his head, looking for the source. Sango was atop Kirara, both heading their way. Naraku didn't even look up as she came in. He just sent dozens of tentacles her way, most of which were pulverized by her boomerang, but one caught the large demon cat and Kirara gave a roar. Sango was flung off the cat's back and a cry of surprise left her lips. She landed hard on the ground, a gasp audible even to Inuyasha, and didn't move. "No, Sango!" Kagome yelled, trying to get to her. Inuyasha renewed his struggles, but something stopped him. It was the snarl from down below. Sesshoumaru's eyes were suddenly filled with consciousness again and looked right into Naraku's surprised ones. "What… how…?" the creature whispered. "You cannot break free!" The scream was denial and anger in one. "Die," Sesshoumaru just said, voice cold and chilly, filled with such loathing and hatred that Inuyasha felt something shiver down his spine. Tetsuseiga swung up, the large blade glowing – and then it changed color. Before his wide-eyed stare, the blade turned bright white and Sesshoumaru seemed to be surrounded by its aura, then it sliced right into Naraku's form. Inuyasha felt the purifying energy of the jewel, an almost painful blast to his senses. Every molecule in his half-demon body reacted to the powerful light, twisting and turning under its energy. Naraku's mouth opened in a scream, but no sound came out. Eyes filled with confusion, pain and surprise were fixed on his opponent, then the mismatched body began to dissolve. Sesshoumaru was still bathed in light, which slowly shifted from brilliant white to pinkish, the center of if all coming from where the Shikon no Tama hung around his neck. He wasn't moving, his eyes cold, his face a mask, as he watched Naraku's fight to live. Cracks appeared in the ground where he stood and out of the cracks, light streamed. It was brilliant, it was blinding and it was deadly to whatever it encountered and classified as an enemy. Lances of purifying light shot out into the sky, bringing down flying youkai, decimating them in one blow. Lightning bolts of white, blue and green color danced over the multiple bodies, twisting them out of proportion. Screams echoed in the silence of the destruction; screams of the dying youkai. And more light poured out of the cracks, widening them, washing over the fortress, cleansing it of evil. Similar spears of light lanced through Naraku and chunks blew loose, together with sharp claws and spear-like extensions. Inuyasha felt his prison give and he crashed to the ground, but not before several sharp objects cut into his already tortured body. He tried to get up, but the shockwave of the destructive power of Tetsuseiga blew him down once more. There was an all-encompassing explosion. He thought he was screaming, but there was no sound except for the deafening thunder and crackle of lightning all around him. Sesshoumaru watched it with dispassionate eyes, the power of the blow raging all around him. And then the shockwave of Naraku's death, combined with the purification powers of the Shikon no Tama, hit. It was a physical and mental shockwave, though neither was actually painful. He was bathed in Shikon energy, paralyzed on the spot by it, his mouth agape, his eyes wide open. He was still aware of everything, but the pain was slow to catch up on events. When it hit, it was all the more pronounced. He was a demon, a youkai, and with it represented everything the Shikon purified. His body was in the epicenter of it all, almost translucent as the fingers of energy streaked through every molecule. The pain was indescribable.
*
Inuyasha's breaths were coming in harsh pants. His whole body ached. There were deep wounds, broken or cracked bones, and he felt light-headed. The shockwave had blown him several feet from his original position and he tried to get up, knees wobbly. His body shook from the purifying energy resonating through him and little whimpers escaped him. Blood ran into his left eye from a deep cut to his forehead and he wiped at it with shaky fingers. There was a soft gasp coming from his left and Inuyasha staggered around as he recognized the source of the noise. "Miroku?" he called, though it only came out as a rough whisper. His lover and partner stood not far away, and he looked bad. Really bad. His skin was a chalky white, eyes wide and glassy, and there was blood all over him. Tremors raced through the slender body, the robes around him in tatters, and his right arm… The sheath was still there, but the cover that usually sealed the kazaana was shredded. His hand was streaked in black and purple stripes, pulsing angrily. "Miroku!" He staggered toward the wounded man, just fast enough to catch the collapsing figure. "Bees," the monk whispered, his face contorting in agony, his whole body arching in pain. Naraku's poison bees, the hanyou realized. Miroku had sucked in whole swarms of the lethal creatures, not caring if he died in the process. This had been the final battle; all or nothing. But Naraku was dead. The kazaana was gone. And the poison…? Inuyasha moaned softly as he held his badly injured lover. "Hold on, koishii," he whispered.
*
Sango had been briefly out of the picture after her forced descent and she had just joined in the fight again when the explosion had made her stagger. She had been far enough away from the epicenter to remain on her feet, but it still rocked her. Kirara gave a growl of confusion and Sango looked at the debris lying everywhere. Body parts… which quickly and without much ado melted into dust. The dust was picked up by the wind and dispersed. Youkai who had still fought them suddenly screeched in fear and confusion, stopping their attacks, and started to run. Naraku was dead. Sesshoumaru had killed him. He had… killed him. Sango let lose a yell of triumph. Yes! They had made it! Battered and bruised, but they had survived. Grabbing her boomerang, ignoring her bruised and maybe pulled muscles, she ran toward where she had seen the two opponents battle for the ultimate victory. She saw the tall, silver-haired figure standing in the middle of a field of debris. The ground looked scorched, there were chunks of rock missing, but Sesshoumaru was the one left standing. One clawed hand opened and the Tetsuseiga clattered to the ground. "Sesshoumaru?" Sango called. A shudder ran through the tall, lithe frame. He made a small, strained noise. And then he collapsed. "Sesshoumaru!" Sango fell to her knees at the youkai's side, fear and terror battling for the upper hand. And she saw the terrible injuries. His robe was in tatters, slashed and torn apart, black blood soaking the remains. There were deep, ugly wounds all over his chest and back, now open to her eyes as the long hair fell aside. His face was disfigured by three, deep cuts that looked like claws had lashed at him. The left hand seemed broken, the right showed blisters from burns. "Sesshoumaru?" she whispered. He looked too much like the time he had nearly died at Inuyasha's hands… Those wonderful, amber eyes cracked open a little and a weak smile curled the perfect lips. "Over," the youkai managed, voice weak and trembly. Yes, he had defeated Naraku, but at what cost? Sango's hand fluttered over the terrible wounds. She pulled off her scarf and tried to clean away some of the blood crusting one eye. Sesshoumaru winced and she stopped. "Hold on," she pleaded. "I'll get help."
*
Kagome had received numerous cuts and bruises, and except for her aching shoulder from shooting so many arrows, she was one of the few who hadn't been injured critically. Farthest away from where Naraku had turned into bite-sized pieces that had evaporated, she tried to get to her friends, when the sight of a familiar body stopped her. In the middle of a field of dead youkai lay a woman in expensive, silken robes. Her dark hair had come undone from the intricate knot and had spilled like a puddle around her. There were no open wounds, but to Kagome it looked like she was dead. Kagura. The girl stepped closer and froze when red eyes opened slowly. "You," Kagura whispered, her voice rough and uneven. A smile appeared on her red lips. "He's dead." Kagome found herself nodding. "I am but a part of him," Kagura went on, her voice weakening. "And when he dies, so do I. My heart is stilling. I can feel it." She touched her chest, her hand badly shaking. "I've got it back… Sesshoumaru kept his promise. I am free." Kagome stared at her as the red eyes closed and her face relaxed completely, then her body started to dissolve. Shocked, Kagome remained where she was for a moment, but then a soft moan reached her. Looking around, she tried to find the source of the very human sound. Her eyes widened. "Koga!" The wolf youkai lay on his side, curled up, the fur skins and armor ripped to pieces. Deep gashes decorated his arms and legs, there was a spear-like thing stuck in his stomach, and blood was pooling under him. Blue eyes cracked open and a weak smile flew over his lips. "Kagome." It sounded like a prayer, a soft breath on his pale lips. "Oh my god, Koga," she whispered and sank to her knees, discarding of her bow and arrows. Careful fingers brushed back errand strands of hair and his smile widened fractionally. "You are okay," he murmured. "Good." "Yes, I'm fine, and you'll be, too." "No, leave me here. A fitting end to this existence. One among many. Just a forgotten death." "No!" she protested. "You'll survive, Koga. You'll heal!" "Nothing can heal me, Kagome. Nothing. Everything is gone." He closed his eyes and a soft sigh left his lips. Kagome gave a sob of despair and searched for a pulse, finding it weak and thready. Koga was a wolf youkai, a full demon, and she had seen Inuyasha recover from worse injuries. But unlike Koga, Inuyasha had had a will to live. The wolf had lost everything. His own pack long before this battle, except for the last two loyal subject. They had been slaughtered by Naraku. Ayame, too. With her pack. He was the last wolf youkai in these parts of the world… "You can't go," she pleaded. "You promised to protect me!" The blue eyes opened again. "You're a strong woman, Kagome. My woman." "Yes, your woman. And I still need you." She met the pain filled gaze and gently touched the bloody face. There was a faint expression of hope in the blue depths, a flicker of longing. "Don't give up. Promise me!" "Kagome…" he breathed. He closed his eyes again and for a second she was afraid he had given in to the darkness that begged him, but she still found a pulse. "Fight," she whispered. "Please."
*
In the end they only made it back to the palace because of Kirara, Hachi and Aun. All three carried the wounded and unconscious. The injured were brought to the rooms and Kagome and Sango set out to help wherever they could. Shippo had been sent with Kirara to get a healer's help. Kirara had taken him to the village where the woman healer Aiko had saved Miroku's life. The little kitsune looked around the small settlement where people stopped and gazed at him, clearly curious but not the least afraid of the two youkai in their midst. Shippo approached the healer's house. "Aiko?" he called. "Please, we need your help. Miroku and Inuyasha sent me…" The bamboo matt was pushed aside and the old woman stepped outside, looking at the fox and the cat. "Help, you say?" He nodded. "Yes. They and others were wounded in the battle against Naraku and we need a healer's expertise. Please come with us!" "Why should I help a youkai, little one?" The kitsune frowned and his teeth clenched unconsciously. "You helped Miroku before, and Inuyasha, too! They're my friends." "What about the youkai lord?" Shippo froze. How did she…? Wide-eyed, he looked at the healer. "He's a youkai," Aiko went on. "They're nothing but monsters." "I'm not a monster!" he yelled, hurt. "We're just different, and Sesshoumaru is Inuyasha's brother!" "They share the same blood, but they never shared any love." Angrily, Shippo stared up at her. "Sesshoumaru has changed, old woman!" he argued. "He was the one who defeated Naraku! And I'm not going to let him die now! I'll find someone else!" Maybe Kaede would help. She lived even farther from here, but if Kirara ran quickly… Walking over to the large, two-tailed cat he was about to climb on when Kirara growled softly. He stopped and looked around. Aiko had descended the steps, her face calm, her eyes giving nothing away. "You care for this youkai who has brought your friends so much pain before?" Shippo clenched his teeth. "Yes." She studied him silently, then nodded and reached for a bag sitting next to the rickety chair. She slung it over her shoulder. "Show me the way, little one." Shippo climbed onto Kirara's back and Aiko followed, then the demon cat took off on flaming paws.
* * *
Aiko began her slow work of cleaning deep and bloody wounds. Inuyasha refused treatment, telling them to concentrate on Miroku and Sesshoumaru first. Aiko just tsked and went after her task of cleaning Sesshoumaru's considerable, deep wounds. Shippo was with them, fetching water, towels and healing herbs. Apparently Sesshoumaru kept a good stock of them in his cellars, much to the healer's approval. The youkai was in a bad shape. Aiko and Kagome worked on him while Inuyasha took care of Miroku, who was suffering quite badly from the poison now. He had a high fever and it was steadily climbing. Neither of their patients had regained consciousness and Sango was glad the demon lord hadn't. Those injuries were painful. She winced as Aiko sewed the gaping flesh closed, bandaged his body and applied salve liberally to the bruises and scrapes. When she was done, she went to look after their other patients. Koga had been brought to a separate room and while the wolf youkai was awake, he was only staring off into space. "He'll be okay," Rin said, her little voice confident as she stroked one hand lightly over the thick bandage around her guardian's arm. "He's powerful. He can heal." Sango wasn't so sure. Feeling her own aches and pains, she looked down at the critically injured man and something inside her clenched in fear at the thought of his death.
* * *
Kagome knocked carefully, then stepped into the room where Inuyasha had carried Miroku to. The monk was stripped of the soiled clothes and Inuyasha had cleaned him up quite nicely with Aiko's help. They had bandaged the wounds and the hanyou was currently getting out of his own stained and ripped clothing as the healer prepared another bowl of herbal ointment for him. "Let me help," Kagome offered. He nodded, then winced as muscles and deep cuts protested movement. Her eyes fell on the deep slash marks, crusted with blood, the bad bruising and the abrasions. There even seemed to be a stab wound. "Sit down, I'll clean these up for you." Inuyasha silently let her do what needed to be done, eyes on the motionless figure on the bed. Miroku appeared haggard, drained, liked dead… The right arm looked the worst and it reminded her a lot of the discoloration from Koga's poisoning when he had received the evil Shikon shard. Aiko handed the young woman her bowl and both wordlessly treated their patient. "How is he?" Kagome asked. "The poison is working inside him," the healer answered. "I did what I could, but his body needs to fight." Kagome combed back a strand of hair to treat the left shoulder. "He'll be fine, Inuyasha." The shoulders slumped a little and the white head fell forward. "I can't lose him now that the curse is lifted, Kagome," the hanyou whispered, sounding desperate. The young woman stepped around him and drew him into a hug without thinking much about her actions. Strong arms curled around her waist, pulling her close. "You won't," she murmured.
* * *
Sango sat curled up on the large, overstuffed chair, looking at the pale, almost frail looking form on the huge bed. She was tired, close to completely exhausted, but she refused to give in to her body's growing need for rest. Ever since returning from their final battle against Naraku, she had been with him. Hour after hour, through sunset and sunrise, and through the high fever that, like Miroku's, showed no sign of getting better. Stripped down to only a pair of plain pants, his chest swathed in bandaged, just like his left arm, pads on his badly injured face, Sesshoumaru looked little like his so invincible self. The long hair had been bound back. There were so many wounds, internal as well as external, and whatever Naraku had used, while it had left visible marks, it had also worked in places no eyes could see. Then there had been the Shikon's purifying energy. It had done the most damage, in places no one could see. A soft moan escaped the youkai and Sango jumped a little. She rose slowly and walked over to the bed she had shared with him before. The eye not covered by the thick pad soaked liberally in a healing herbal liquid opened slowly and the slender form tensed slightly. There was fear in his expression and it was so unfitting for him. As was this weak and beaten appearance. They had won and looked like they had lost anyway. "It's okay, Sesshoumaru," she said softly. "You're safe." A soft gasp could be heard and she unconsciously stroked over his matted hair. "The others are okay, too. Inuyasha's a little better off than you. Miroku's fighting the poison from Naraku's bees and Kagome has a concussion, some bruises and cuts…" "You?" he whispered, voice fading. "Bruised. Mostly my ego. Some of those mindless servants nearly got me." She shrugged and regretted immediately as her sore muscles protested. "Good," he breathed and closed his eyes, slipping off into sleep again. Sango settled back, slightly dizzy and so much craving sleep. Her eyes started to droop. Sleep. Just sleep. Just a little rest. She crawled onto the large bed. The covers felt wonderful against her tired body and she reveled in the softness, the smell of him… Confusion seeped into her exhausted mind. Confusion about her feelings for this man, confusion about her actions, confusion about their future. Who was she kidding? There was none. It had been an act born out of adrenaline and hunger. It had happened once and would never happen again. He was a youkai, she was a slayer! She didn't… feel something for him… nothing at all. Then why had she been so afraid that he had died on the battle field? Why was she still scared?
* * *
Kagome entered the room where Koga had been placed to rest and heal. Like Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha he had been cleaned and bandaged, and it was the first time she saw him without his usual attire. Actually, he wasn't wearing a lot, except for the bandages and a loincloth not unlike his old one. He still looked bad, some cuts and abrasions uncovered, bruises all over his visible skin. His eyes were open but they were simply staring into nothingness, looking out of the window without seeing the clouds in the sky or the occasional bird. She sat down at his side, gazing at the one who had been her self-proclaimed savior and 'man' in the past. She wasn't embarrassed by his almost completely nude state; Kagome had gone past that girlish feeling a long time ago. Now she was only pained by his state, his own pain. "Koga?" she asked softly. There was no reaction to her presence or her voice and she carefully touched one hand. She wrapped her fingers loosely around it. "Koga? Please look at me?" Those wonderful, blue eyes shifted and she looked into such deep pain, she almost gasped. Kagome touched his face with her other hand and wordlessly stroked one cheek. His eyes glistened with unshed tears, but he wouldn't allow himself to cry. Like Inuyasha he was a very proud man and despite his immense losses, he was still trying to control his emotional reactions. "It's okay to let go," she murmured. "It's okay to mourn them now. You had your revenge. Naraku is dead." He looked away again, burying his head in the futon. One tear slid down his bruised cheek and she wiped it away with her thumb. And suddenly he was in her arms, holding on to her, head buried against her neck and shoulder, his body shaking in silent sobs. She felt the tears, but he didn't make a sound. Kagome held on, stroked over his back, his hair, and was simply there as her own throat tightened and the lump in it thickened. Koga was the last of his kind -- his family, comrades… all packs gone. And Ayame. The wolves of the mountain had been wiped out. Yes, there were still wolves left, but no wolf youkai. He was alone.
* * *
Inuyasha sat on the large bed, next to his unconscious lover, letting his eyes take inventory of the human. Cleaned of the blood and dirt, it was now all the more visible how much his lover had been hurt. Miroku had been badly injured by the youkai, his skin blemished by numerous bruises and cuts and scrapes. One cheek looked like someone had taken sandpaper to it and Inuyasha's eyes tightened. The left, scarred arm had taken some punishment, featuring a sprained wrist, but the right one was… healed. No more kazaana, no more covering it up. For the first time in his life, Miroku no longer had to wear the protective beads and the bandage. Inuyasha smiled dimly. The poison was still running its course and he was feverish. The right arm had leftover streaks of purple and black. Even now Miroku's temperature was too high for the hanyou's liking and he was sweating. Aiko had brewed several herbal medicines, but somehow Inuyasha feared the worst. Two days now. Two days where both Miroku and Sesshoumaru were hovering between life and death. His own injuries were no better. There were deep cuts and broken bones, but those would heal. His youkai side took care of that. It would take time, though. Broken bones didn't mend over night and each shift reminded him of the fact. But they had survived. They had killed Naraku. And the jewel was gone.
* * *
Koga hadn't left his room for a single moment. There was nothing outside these four walls that held any interest for him. His blue eyes held an empty expression as their stared at the wall, his inner eyes replaying scenes of the past, memories and wishful thinking alike. His wounds were treated, his bandages changed, but he didn't care anymore. Everyone was dead. Everyone. He was the only one left. It was a sad fate, an unchangeable fate. The door to his room opened almost hesitantly and he heard soft steps. Too light to be Kagome's and the smell was wrong. Still, he didn't turn. If it was an assassin, so be it. He had nothing worth living for. "I brought you something to eat." The voice was young, that of a child, and when the owner of the young voice stepped into his line of sight, he discovered it was the girl he had seen with Sesshoumaru before. She had grown quite a bit, but her face was still so very much open, her eyes large and filled with gentleness and also… happiness. She radiated such a calming nature, it was almost like having Kagome around. "I'm not hungry," he murmured, looking past her. "You have to eat to heal." He gave her a sad smile but didn't say anything. The girl placed the food on the table and walked up to him. Her large eyes studied him and despite his own pain, Koga could detect something like fear in their depths. "What's your name?" he wanted to know, breaking the silence. "Rin." She took a piece of food and held it out to him. "Eat, please. You have to be whole again." He pushed himself up a little, noting her increasing unease. It had been the same when they had first met. She had been afraid of him, but he didn't know why. She lived with an incredibly powerful youkai, so why fear him? He couldn't even get close to Sesshoumaru's power. Koga took the food and chewed it slowly. His eyes were on the little girl, who determinedly stayed with him. "You're afraid of me," he murmured after some time, speaking out loud what he had been pondering. She stuck out her chin. "No, not any more." "But you were?" "I don't like wolves." He nodded. "I can accept that. You don't have to stay here." "I'm not afraid of them anymore." "Oh?" Her small face was set. "No," she repeated. Koga chewed thoughtfully, taking whatever Rin handed him. She smiled, pleased, and held out a jug of water. He emptied it. "Rin?" "Yes?" "How did you come to live with a youkai like Sesshoumaru?" "He saved me," she replied. "From the wolves that attacked my village." Now her eyes had taken on a harder look, one that told of dark memories and the determination not to let them rule her again. Wolves, Koga thought. Wolves attacked her village, probably killed her people… killed her? He knew of the Tenseiga, that Sesshoumaru could bring humans back to life with it, but why would he save a small human child? "I won't harm you, Rin," he said softly. "I don't harm human beings." Her hands clenched around the jug. "Rin?" She shook her head. Koga leaned forward a little and she stepped back, her eyes suddenly wider. "Rin?" "You… were in my village that day," she blurted. "I…" Koga stopped, paling. "I was…?" He had killed her people… and her? "Rin… I'm sorry," he whispered. She bit her lower lip and finally looked up, facing him straight-on. "I'm not afraid of wolves any more," she repeated her earlier statement. Koga regarded her silently and finally smiled a little as he sank back onto the bed. "No, you aren't, Rin."
* * *
Sesshoumaru was surrounded by suffocating blackness. There wasn't a single point of light and he wasn't so sure if he was coming or going. He thought he was walking somewhere, but he could also be standing rooted to the spot. His sense of direction was gone, his eyes, though wide open, were of no use, and his feet were definitely not on solid ground. He gasped for air that wasn't there, feeling the blackness close around him, bringing an inhuman coldness. He had the sudden feeling of falling down and screamed in surprise. His hands flailed out for something solid to hold on, all the time thinking he was rushing down to his certain death on very solid ground. He opened his eyes. Light blinded him and he averted his eyes with a groan. When he looked up again to try and make out his surroundings a wave of dizziness washed over him and the world tilted sideways. He squeezed his eyes shut as he gritted his teeth and tried not to cry out in pain. Every nerve ending blazed with the agony of his body. He had been hit bad and he knew it. The youkai tried to take inventory and came up with a sickening amount of damage to his body. Several broken ribs, a crushed wrist, burns, slash marks, bruises, deep cuts, and an all-encompassing headache. All was nothing really all too bad alone, but together it created quite a problem. Opening his eyes he tried to get a bearing on where he was. His chambers, his bed… and there were faint memories of someone treating his wounds, giving him healing brews and teas, and someone else staying at his side. Sesshoumaru stretched his senses, trying to ignore the pulses of pain from everywhere of his body, trying to find out if he was alone or not. He wasn't. There were at least two humans outside the door, talking, but he couldn't make out a word. Trying to turn his head was a bad idea, the youkai found out a second latter as spikes of liquid agony shot through him. He clenched his teeth so hard he thought he'd crack his jaw. Pain rippled through his abused body and he felt muscles twitch involuntarily. "Sesshoumaru!" The voice was like a sledge hammer on his already so pain filled mind and he groaned softly. "Don't move! You're hurt badly." He wanted to glare at the woman whose voice identified her as Sango, but he didn't have the energy. Instead he just sank back and tried to relax his cramping muscles. Soft hands caressed his head. "Just give yourself time to heal," Sango murmured and suddenly her voice took on a very soothing quality. Sesshoumaru turned his head, clouded eyes taking in the slayer. She looked pale and had been injured, too. Her face had a worn, hollow quality, and her eyes told of little sleep. He wanted to say something, but the exhaustion took him once more. He slipped into sleep.
*
Sango looked at the youkai and a tender smile touched her lips. Sesshoumaru was healing, he was getting better, and soon he would be back to his old self. Her eyes rose and looked at the closed door that led into the hallway. Just one floor down, the situation was very much different.
* * *
Miroku's body was burning up. For three days now he had fought the poison and the damage done to his body. He was feverish, couldn't keep anything down, and he was losing weight at an alarming rate. The hand where the kazaana had been was marked by the poison, the skin discolored and inflamed. Cold baths hadn't brought down the dangerous fever. His body was fighting against the poison, but it was losing. Aiko had sent Shippo and Kirara to gather special herbs, but even they hadn't brought the temperatures down. Inuyasha was with his lover non-stop, even now as the hot body lay almost motionless on the large bed, its sheets soaked in sweat. The frantic heartbeat of before had dulled to an erratic one, and the hanyou's sensitive ears were following each thump. "Koishii," Inuyasha whispered, stroking over the hot face. Miroku's features twisted in pain at the cramps that had been running through his body non-stop now. Glassy, violet eyes cracked open and dry lips moved. No sound came out of the parched throat. "No," Inuyasha pleaded. "Don't…" The heartbeat faltered and the hand in his cramped as new pain shot through the tortured body. "Please, no...." Miroku's eyes slid shut, a whimper escaping instead of words. "Miroku!" And then the last, stumbling heartbeats stilled. "No!" Inuyasha frantically sought for a sign of life. A breath, a pulse, anything. There was nothing but the terrifying silence, the confirmation of a passing. "NO!" he roared. "Miroku!" It couldn't be. It just couldn't…. He hadn't fought everyone and everything in his way to defeat Naraku, only to be left with… nothing. "No, no, no," he whimpered. "Please, no…" But there was nothing anymore, no more blood running through Miroku's body, no more breaths leaving his lungs. He was dead. Dead… Gone… And the world blurred into a red haze. His mate had died; killed by Naraku. Poisoned by his insects. Cold emotions rose and turned into fiery hot feelings of pain, loss and revenge, but there was no one to kill, to maim and destroy. Naraku was dead. Like Miroku. A growl left his lips which pulled back over much longer canines. Razor-sharp claws tenderly caressed the cooling body, and blood red eyes lifted and gazed through the silvery white bangs. He moved away from the bed and his dead mate, each movement slow and dangerously predatory. The door to their room splintered under his claws.
A howl could be heard throughout the castle, startling the servants, terrifying the lesser youkai among them.
* * *
Sesshoumaru was reasonably awake, only dozing slightly, but he felt better than before. Just twenty-four hours ago he had woken for the first time, had been coherent for the first time, and since he had vastly improved by the hour. His body was healing. Slower than he was used to, but it was mending itself. He had tried to get out of bed twice before, but each time it had ended with him face down on the ground and Sango giving him a piece of her mind. It was always a very loud and uncensored piece, too. The woman was driving him insane… But in a way he didn't really want to miss her presence. A howl reverberated through the castle and the youkai's eyes widened. "Inuyasha?" he whispered, unaware he had spoken the name of his brother out loud. The voice was unmistakable, even if the emotion expressed in it was. He had heard such noise before. Such howling. Such soul-deep pain, such… horror. No… it couldn't be… no… Sesshoumaru pushed back the cover and painfully, as well as laboriously sat up, already feeling the first slivers of renewed pain in his healing form. The door to his chambers opened and Sango came in, her face a chalky white. It quickly changed from shocked to angry as she saw him getting up. "What are you doing?!" she demanded. "Where's my brother?" he countered her question with his own. "What?" "You heard me! Where's my brother, slayer?" His eyes flashed red for just a brief second and it showed her more than anything how much he was running on adrenaline. Sango hesitated, then the sadness returned, a pain hidden in the brown depths of her eyes. "Sesshoumaru… you should stay here… Inuyasha…" "Lost his mate," he finished her sentence, his own voice hollow. "How…?" "I heard his cries. I've heard them before. It's the cry of the mate after the passing. Where is he?" There was a splintering sound from somewhere, echoing through the castle, followed by a roar that sounded less and less human or even half-human. Sesshoumaru reached for his sword to use as a crutch and swayed to his feet. "Where is he!" he demanded again. "Taking apart everything in his way," the demon slayer answered softly. "Miroku died of the poison… you shouldn't… I mean, we should leave him alone, Sesshoumaru. He's mourning…" He ignored her as he staggered toward the exit and into the corridor. He heard Sango sigh, but she followed him.
*
In his room, which he hadn't left since he had been brought here, Koga raised his head. His pale, drawn face grew even paler and Kagome, who had spent most of her time with him, looked up. "What is it?" "Inuyasha," the wolf youkai murmured. "No…" Kagome jumped up, suddenly afraid. "What do you mean?" Koga shivered and sat up, his weakened body not yet completely at ease with moving around. "It's a call of mourning, of despair, of revenge and pain… He lost someone, Kagome." She paled dramatically. "Miroku!" And she ran out of the door. Koga staggered to his feet, swaying briefly, then grit his teeth. With determined steps he left the room.
*
Sesshoumaru had never been more shocked in his life than the moment his eyes fell on his half-brother. True, he had seen him like this before, but back then he had been plain scared. He, the great Sesshoumaru, had been frightened, terrified, at his little brother's mercy, who had nearly killed him. Now… now he was looking at a horrifying memory of the worst time of his life. Kneeling on all fours in the middle of the battle court, the hanyou had buried his long, sharp claws into the hard-packed earth after he had destroyed whatever puppet or training equipment there had been. Nothing looked like it had survived his wrath. The slender, semi-naked body was heaving with each panting breath and the youkai could hear the air escape with soft hisses, intermingled with what could be growls. The silvery white hair hung in thick strands around his head, obscuring his face. As Sesshoumaru fell against the arch of the entrance into the battle ground, his whole body shaking, he felt a hand push against his back to keep him from toppling backward. A brief flash of gratitude coursed through him, but he didn't let the woman behind him see it. And then Inuyasha raised his head, his nose taking in his scent, and Sesshoumaru took two involuntary steps back. Again, Sango just kept him from falling. Memories… painful, nightmarish memories returned and he felt himself shiver. Those eyes… Blood red eyes looked at him out of a face that, while human, was no longer human at all. The purple stripes underneath the hanyou's eyes were a clear sign of the demon inside him. Those inhuman eyes narrowed at the two intruders, the crimson color increasing. A soft, warning rumble left his lips. Nothing of the human had remained. Nothing of Inuyasha was there to be seen. There was only an animal, a hurt, dangerous animal that would kill whoever approached him. The pointed ears were laid flat back on the top of Inuyasha's head as his claws dug deeper into the soil, and he snarled softly, pulling back his lips from long canines. It was a clear warning. The only one he would get from the demon he was now facing. Someone he had seen like this before, but even then – there had been some humanity in him. Not now, though. Inuyasha had lost his mate just after the battle that had freed Miroku of his curse. His brother was ready to die – while taking whoever might be in his way with him. Sesshoumaru doubted he would stand a chance against the primal force that gazed at him even if he were at the top of his powers. Once before he had noticed what lay dormant in the hanyou; once before he had felt the fear course through him. Right now that fear was closer to terror than anything else. His muscles trembled with exhaustion and fear. The demon Inuyasha had nearly killed him once; had only let up because he had chosen so. Because Sesshoumaru had shown submission. The demon lord doubted that submission would do the trick now. This was a creature driven by abysmal pain. They wouldn't be able to stop Inuyasha, even if he were at his full strength. There was only one thing he could do. Sesshoumaru's hands closed around Tenseiga and he turned, almost losing his balance. Sango's hands were on his arm and around his waist. "Sesshoumaru?" she asked. "I can help," he whispered. The primal youkai behind them snarled softly, watching them, and Sesshoumaru shivered. Each step sapped at his strength and he was leaning heavily on the woman, but he forced himself to walk. "What are you up to?" Sango wanted to know. "Tenseiga," he said through clenched teeth. Her eyes fell on the sword he was using as a crutch, then understanding coursed through her. He could bring back the dead monk… he could save both him and his brother. Sesshoumaru had no idea how he made it to the chambers, but he was trembling quite badly now, sweat running down his face and the pain was all-encompassing. The sight of his brother's blood red eyes and inhuman features drove him on, though. Both were stopped by the healer who had helped the wounded warriors in the last few days. Aiko stood in front of the doors like a sentinel, looking at the unlikely duo. "Out of my way, woman!" Sesshoumaru snarled. "You cannot enter, youkai." "This is my castle, and I order you to get out of my way before I make you!" As if he even could. He needed all his strength to stay upright. Sango was taking on most of his weight now and Sesshoumaru felt so incredibly tired and exhausted. "It has begun, youkai, and you cannot change it. Your motives are honorable, but you are not needed. He will be fine." "He's dead, witch!" "Yes, but his healing has begun. It will be obvious soon. The bond is strong." "What are you talking about?" he growled. Aiko gazed at him, the serene expression driving him insane. "The hanyou and the monk are bonded as one. Should one ever perish, the other's life energy will bring him back. Neither shall die if not killed at the same exact moment in time." Sesshoumaru gaped at her. "You mean…" Sango stuttered. "Miroku's alive?" "He will be fine, soon, slayer. The hanyou's life force is draining right now. He will be weakening, return to his normal state because of it, and he will need your help more than his mate." Sesshoumaru's thoughts were whirling. His brother and the monk… bonded…? And they shared… life? His knees buckled and even Sango could no longer support him. With a soft gasp he collapsed onto the hard ground, pain shooting through his abused body. He was trembling so hard, he could no longer hold on to Tenseiga. It clattered to the ground. "Sesshoumaru?" Sango exclaimed. He closed his eyes, fighting for composure, for control over his traitorous body. "Yes," he heard the old hag say, "it has begun. For all of you."
*
Down in the battle court the creature that had been Inuyasha howled as if in pain, then roared and attacked the bare stone wall, digging deep gauges into it with his bare claws. Kagome watched the display of unrestrained, primal power and she felt slivers of fear course through her. This wasn't Inuyasha anymore. Not even the Inuyasha she had seen as a youkai before. This was something dark and primeval, something so mindless and driven by instinct, she knew it would kill many before someone might take it down. "Oh, Inuyasha," she whispered. Koga suddenly appeared at her side, his face pale and drawn, and his horrified eyes were on what was currently taking out its rage and pain on the battle court walls. "Inuyasha?" he whispered in disbelief. Kagome nodded. "But… that's… he smells… like a youkai!" "He is a youkai, in a way. There's nothing left of him." Suddenly the semi-clothed figure froze, staggered, and collapsed onto his knees. Crimson eyes burned with inner rage and he tried to get up, but whatever was causing it, he couldn't. Stumbling for two more steps, he crashed down once more, then landed flat on his stomach on the dusty ground. "Inuyasha!" Kagome called and started down the stairs, but Koga held her back. "Wait…" "He needs help!" "He could just as well slice you apart!" Kagome's features twisted with the need to help and the understanding that she might just end up killed by his claws. Inuyasha whimpered softly, pushing fruitlessly at the ground, and his features grew more and more lax. Before their astounded eyes, the purple stripes on his cheeks disappeared, the crimson color faded into amber, and the claws no longer looked like knives. Kagome ran over to him, Koga on her trail, and sank down beside the stricken hanyou. "Inuyasha…" Incredibly pained eyes, showing the suffering of a tormented soul, met her inquiring gaze. "Kagome… why?" he wanted to know. She touched the dust-streaked face. His eyes closed and his muscles relaxed completely. "Unconscious," Koga muttered. "What happened?" "I don't know," she replied, puzzled.
* * *
Inuyasha had no idea how he came to be here. He lay on a bed, in a room, and it was day. There were soft sounds coming from his left, sounds of someone sleeping, moving lightly in his dreams, and he turned around. Miroku. Dressed in only light pants, chest naked, the monk looked peacefully asleep. Asleep… not dead. Dead. Miroku! Inuyasha sat up with a gasp as memories returned. Memories of his lover's dying breath, of the hot, feverish body in his arms, of the fading heartbeat and then… But… Inuyasha placed a hand onto the smooth chest and felt the strong heartbeat he had subconsciously heard before. The warmth of the skin seeped into him, reassured him, and he gave a soft whimper. Miroku… was alive? Dark violet eyes cracked open and pulled the hanyou into their depths. It was like a spell. He felt the heartbeat, listened to its wonderful sound, felt the warmth underneath his touch, and then he saw the slight smile. "Inuyasha," Miroku murmured. And the powerful half-demon flung himself into his lover's arms, feeling Miroku's embrace. "Koishii?" "You're alive!" "I… yes…" He sounded confused. "You died," Inuyasha whispered, feeling the first tremors course through his body. "You died… in my arms. You died!" The tears came unbidden as the pain clenched his heart, came back with a force that threatened to drown him, and Inuyasha felt strong hands hold him, stroke him calmingly, and soft lips moved against his neck as a warm breath brushed over his skin. "I'm here. It's okay. I'm fine." The hanyou finally quieted down, breathing hard, swallowing convulsively to get his reactions under control. Watery, amber eyes looked at the man still lying underneath him on the bed, felt the gentle hands caress his face, and he drank in the sight of the lively, violet eyes, the smile, the healthy color of his skin. Miroku was alive. He didn't know how or why, but he was alive. Tenseiga, he thought. Maybe his brother had used the sword to bring him back to life. He would have to ask him, thank him… There was a soft knock and the door opened. Aiko came in, smiling at the two men so intimately entwined on the bed. Inuyasha had no intention of moving an inch and Miroku looked comfortable, too. "I see you have awakened. How do you feel, Houshi?" "A bit tired," Miroku answered honestly. "That was only to be expected. You pulled a lot of energy, but your body will heal completely." Inuyasha frowned and sat up a little. "What do you mean? What energy?" Aiko smiled again. "Come see me later today. I will explain. For now, rest. Everything is in balance." And with that she left. Inuyasha kept frowning, but then Miroku pulled him down into his arms again. Later sounded like a good plan, he decided.
* * *
Koga sat in the peaceful garden, eyes holding a faraway expression. Kagome approached him silently and when she sat down beside the still wounded youkai, he turned his head a fraction to glance at her. "How do you feel?" she wanted to know. He gave a little snort. "What do you think? I'm the last of my kind…" She reached for his hand and clasped it tenderly. "But you still have friends." He looked at their joined hands, but unlike before he made no romantic overtures. There was such sadness in his eyes, even Kagome's presence couldn't drive it fully away. "I hear the monk has recovered," he said, changing the topic. Kagome hesitated a moment, her compassionate gaze on Koga's closed-off features, then she nodded. His eyebrows twitched up a little. "The dog boy's mated to a human?" He chuckled, but there was no humor in it. "Now that's something." "Hey, what are you laughing at!" The challenging voice rung out over the peaceful landscape and Koga's head snapped up. Inuyasha stood just a few feet away and he hadn't even smelled him! "You and that… human." He put enough sarcasm into his voice to make it an insult. "Here you had a chance to have a real miko, a woman like Kagome, but you gave that up. Couldn't compete with me, huh?" Kagome tried to hide a smile as the old fire was reborn in the blue eyes. "Compete? There was never anything to compete with!" Inuyasha snarled. "Little wimp." "Mongrel puppy!" Inuyasha bared his teeth but he didn't reach for Tetsuseiga. Behind him, Miroku remained out of the circle of fighters, like Kagome trying to hide a smile. Their eyes met and she winked at him; he gave her a barely detectable nod. "Who do you call a puppy, kid? I could wipe the ground with you!" "You haven't been able to so far, what makes you think you'd stand a chance now?" Inuyasha huffed. "I don't have to be at my top to beat the crap out of you! If you stay long enough, that is. You always run anyway!" Koga growled and got to his feet. "My time's more precious than showing you your place, dog face!" Inuyasha grinned insolently. "I'd like to see you try." "Guys!" Kagome yelled and stepped between them. "That's enough!" Koga crossed his arms in front of his still bandaged chest. "Need my woman to defend you, puppy?" "Your woman?!" Kagome rolled her eyes. Oh, that old argument. "Kagome's not your woman and never was!" "You claim her now? One human not enough? Or is it the monk can't satisfy your needs, huh?" Inuyasha snarled and stepped closer. "You keep out of my affairs and your paws off Kagome!" Koga grinned widely. "She's my woman, hanyou!" "Oh for crying out loud!" Kagome grumbled. Part of her was glad for the fire and spirit the wolf youkai was showing, though. Miroku finally stepped forward and laid a hand on Inuyasha's shoulder. "We're late to meet with Aiko," he said, his voice reasonable, but also soothing. Inuyasha seemed to relax under the touch and voice, straightening out of his slight crouch. "I've no time to play with you, wolf." Koga laughed. "Running because your human said so?" "I've a much more important appointment than you. And the only one who's always running away from everything is you!" Their eyes met and despite the harsh words, there was something else there. Koga stiffened as he read the expression in the amber depths, as the real meaning of the words sank in, and he made an involuntary step backwards. Not Inuyasha! He couldn't… he couldn't actually suspect, or worse, know! But he did. Somewhere deep in those suddenly much older eyes was that knowledge, of loss and pain and desperation. The hanyou turned and walked away. Miroku gave both Koga and Kagome a small smile, then followed. "Koga?" Kagome said softly and he flinched. He had forgotten about her presence. Now her small hand touched his bare arm and while something deep inside of him rejoiced at the gentle contact, another part was trying to push her away out of fear of losing the one person he still held dear. "He's right," the wolf murmured. "Huh?" "Inuyasha is right. It's time to stop running." He started to walk away. "Koga?" she called. The youkai gave her a slight smile. "I'm leaving, Kagome." "But you said you would stop running!" "Yes, but to do that, I've to be somewhere else, away from here, and find the acceptance within me that I am the last." She made a few steps to follow, but he stopped her. "You'll always be my woman, Kagome. Always. But for now, I've to leave you in the protection of Inuyasha. Till I see you again." He bowed slightly, then continued his way. Out the garden, down the path to the large entrance doors, and finally out of the fortress. Kagome stood rooted to the spot, something inside her screaming to follow him, but she remained. "Good luck, Koga. And please return," she whispered.
From the defense walls, Inuyasha watched his former rival and sparring partner go. Miroku stood at his side. Silent. Eyes on the ever smaller growing figure. Finally the dark-haired human touched his arm and slid his hand over Inuyasha's. Their fingers interlaced. "Safe journey, Koga," Inuyasha murmured. "Let's go and see Aiko," Miroku interrupted his brooding thoughts about he young wolf youkai. He nodded sharply. There was a lot he wanted to know about what had occurred here, about Miroku's survival.
* * *
"We're… bonded?" Miroku gaped at the old woman. "Yes," Aiko confirmed. "The soul bond between you is strong. It was already balanced when you came here, but now you have completed it. The Shikon no Tama fused you as one." Inuyasha stared at her, then shook his head. "But… why?" "The Jewel of the Four Souls, when it dissolved, it became what it was named for – the power that binds the souls meant for each other. You two are one such pairing." She smiled slyly. "Have you never wondered about the second part of the prophecy?" "What second part?" "Only the one who has sworn to kill can bring this heart to life, And they will become one. When the four hearts beat as one The darkness will flee So the jewel will forever bind the four souls." "I… never heard that," Miroku murmured, stunned. "So… if I die, Inuyasha's life energy brings me back?" He sounded shocked. "Yes." "And if he dies… the same?" A nod. "What if we both die?" "Only if you die the exact same moment in time will your life end forever. Your energies are forever interwoven. It's a life cycle of energies, streams running through each of you, looping back again and again. There's no beginning, no end. Just life." "Oh." The two lovers looked at each other and there was something in Inuyasha's eyes that was almost fear. They were now one, bonded for life, each the energy and power and strength of the other. If one died, the other's life energy would insure the rebirth. "Aiko…" Miroku started slowly as a thought hit him. "You said the Shikon bound our souls, but we're just two… still, it is named the Jewel of Four Souls." The old woman smiled slightly. "Another pair has been bonded, Houshi, that is true." "Another… pair…?" Inuyasha's eyes widened. "Shit!" She smiled more. "I believe they will soon achieve their balance. It has begun, hanyou. You cannot stop it. Both have experienced the power of the bond before, have taken healing energy from the other, and they will continue to grow to reach your level of bonding." Inuyasha gaped. It couldn't be… Miroku just frowned, not yet sure he understood correctly. "Koishii?" he addressed his lover. "Sango and Sesshoumaru. They're the second pair." Miroku's eyebrows rose, but otherwise he remained calm. "I see. Do they know?" "They will soon," Aiko answered.
* * *
It was gone. For good. For real. Forever. The air hole had closed, and all that remained of his right hand was… unblemished skin. Miroku couldn't remember a time in his life when he hadn't had the kazaana. True, before his father had died he had been a normal boy; but that had been a life time ago. Now… Now there was nothing anymore. So strange. Miroku rubbed a thumb over the right palm, feeling the skin that hadn't been there before. The kazaana was gone and with it his power had changed. He had relied heavily on this dangerous weapon to keep youkai at bay, to threaten and frighten opponents, and to simply save a life. Now he was a normal man. Well, he thought with a grin, not so normal. His powers had grown quite a bit and now he was also bonded for life with his hanyou lover. He still had no idea how that would work, but he accepted it, like he had accepted so much in the past. Someone approached, soft steps on the grassy ground, and settled behind him. Miroku fell back into the warm, familiar embrace of his partner and Inuyasha nuzzled his neck. "Thinking?" the hanyou asked softly, his voice gentle. "Yes." Inuyasha took his right hand and the clawed fingers interlaced with his. "Do you miss it?" "In a way. It's been with me so long… and I never thought about the time after we defeated Naraku." He sighed. "It's like part of me is missing." "Part of you is, but it's a part you can live without." Miroku stared at their hands. "I've relied on it in the past," he murmured. "You can fight with other weapons, koishii. The kazaana was the most powerful, but also the most dangerous – for your life." Inuyasha kissed his neck again, nibbling slightly. Miroku nodded and relaxed completely back into the warmth of his lover. "Yes," he whispered. "It was." He had to change his fighting technique, work more on his spiritual power, his shields and charms and casting. But at least he would grow old with Inuyasha, and according to Aiko, they would live for quite some time to come.
* * *
A soft, warm breeze was blowing through the small garden. The trees moved with it, a rustle of leaves among the sound of the water the only noise disturbing the quiet scene. It was a moonless night, with only the stars out, and no clouds crossed the sky. The night of the new moon. Sesshoumaru stood hidden in an archway that led to a path that would end in the garden. His sharp eyes were fixed on the two men sitting at the fish pond where the Koi were lazily snapping for a few late flies. Miroku sat with his back against a thick tree trunk and Inuyasha had settled between his open legs, his back to his lover, snuggled into the loose embrace. Dark hair spilled against the black robes of the monk. Inuyasha was human. It was the second time Sesshoumaru saw his brother like this – not counting the time he had picked up the unconscious form so many weeks ago -- and it surprised him again how much trust the hanyou displayed in staying here. He was at his most vulnerable now. Miroku's hands caressed the long hair, then he leaned down and tenderly kissed his lover's lips. Inuyasha answered the intimate contact, hands burying in the dark robes, mouth opening, inviting Miroku inside. Sesshoumaru stayed completely silent, a voyeur but not the least bit ashamed of it. There was a strange kind of balance between those two men, something he had noticed before. Not just the intimacy of lover's, but more. Now that the bond had been revealed, he wondered what would become of them. Bound together, living one life, almost immortal. Hanyou lived a very long life, grew older than humans, and if the monk was now tied to the same life cycle as his lover, it meant an extremely extended life expectancy, too. How would they deal? His brother was a protective-possessive being, and the monk meant the world to him. It was visible in every touch or look. Inuyasha buried a hand under the black robe and started to nibble at his lover's throat and neck. Miroku's eyes closed and he sighed softly. The wind brought with it the smell of arousal and Sesshoumaru turned quietly. It was time to give them some privacy.
*
Inuyasha listened to the soft moans and gasps of his lover as he worked himself down the slender throat exposed to his teeth and the hand he had underneath the black robes found a nipple that expressed a rising interest in its presence. Miroku whispered his name, eyes closed, an expression of pleasure on his face. He claimed the partially open lips again, deepening the kiss, making his intentions clear. Miroku buried his hands in the dark locks and held on to him as they kissed in abandon. Despite the new moon, Inuyasha felt completely safe, for the first time in his life. They hungrily nipped and licked at each other until Inuyasha sat back, breathing heavily. "Let's go," he whispered. Miroku nodded, rising to his feet, and his hands were on his lover again. Inuyasha had no idea how they made it back without major injury. The moment the door had been closed, he was all over his lover. Miroku sank back onto the futon, the hanyou atop, and gave him free rein to do whatever he wanted. Inuyasha used it to the fullest, exploring, reaffirming and simply loving the man underneath him. He had lost his lover once and he needed to reascertain again that he was whole and healthy and alive. The unrestrained cries and moans told him just how alive Miroku was. He had never been a silent lover and currently, he was also a very demanding one. Blunt nails raked over his skin and Inuyasha closed his hand around the straining hardness, caressing it gently. Miroku moaned in appreciation, bucking into his grasp. Taking his time, Inuyasha let his tongue taste all the soft spots, let teeth nip and nibble without having to be careful about his sharp canines. Teasing a hard nipple, he smiled at the whimper that drew, and he repeated it. "Inuyasha…" He growled softly, concentrating on the hard evidence of Miroku's want and need, reveling in the twitches and pleading. Before his lover could spill himself, he stopped, drawing a cry of protest. Inuyasha crawled up the straining body, looking into the wide, violet eyes. "I want you, Miroku," he whispered. Miroku's eyes filled with realization and he cupped one cheek with his right hand – his free, unbound right hand. It was such an amazing feeling to be touched by the healed flesh. The next kiss was soft and slow and filled with love. Miroku proceeded to stroke and arouse him, and Inuyasha closed his eyes in bliss. He fell into the warmth of his rising pleasure, feeling his body heat up in arousal and buck in need for his lover's touch. As the first finger penetrated him, he arched his back, moaning. Miroku was gentle and thorough, and when he was sufficiently lubricated, Inuyasha stopped the nimble hands, rolling them around. Miroku blinked at him in confusion, but then his eyes widened slightly in realization as Inuyasha settled over him. "Inuyasha…" "It's okay." He smiled down at his lover and Miroku's hands touched his hips, helping him guide himself down onto the other man. Inuyasha moaned softly, breaths coming in hisses. Miroku's fingers dug into his hips and his own twitched slightly. "Inu.. yasha…" he moaned. And the hanyou started to move. Slowly at first, experimentally. It felt incredible and from Miroku's reaction, he was feeling good about it, too. His lover's hands let go of his hips and reached for his own hands, entwining their fingers. He gasped softly, still going slow, but the need to speed up was increasing. Miroku pushed up into him, making him groan loudly as that special spot was touched. Neither man noticed the purple sky outside, as the sun broke through the night, coloring black first dark blue, then purple and finally a soft shade of pink. They were too engrossed in each other, bodies moving in a sensuous rhythm. Inuyasha knew he couldn't last much longer and despite the wish to draw it all out, there was nothing he could do as his body needed and craved release. The sun's first rays broke over the horizon as the hanyou threw back his head and cried out his release, as the human underneath him pushed up hard and desperate, seeking his own climax. Inuyasha fell forward with the power of the rush he had felt, hair cascading over his lover, and Miroku's arms came around him. Still connected deep inside, breaths coming in pants, chests heaving, the two men lay together, Inuyasha on top of Miroku. Finally the hanyou raised his head, white hair and amber eyes, pointed dog ears and claws. Miroku smiled lazily and drew him into a kiss, his tongue expertly slipping past and around the long canines. His hands carded through the silvery strands. Inuyasha sighed in pleasure, wincing only briefly as Miroku slipped free and the two men curled up together. Miroku reached for a towel and cleaned them off, then Inuyasha drew the blanket over them. The sun was up, but he didn't care. For once. Both dropped off into a light doze.
*
When the door opened Inuyasha's head snapped up, amber eyes narrowing as he discovered the identity of their visitor. Sesshoumaru. Dressed in rather simple clothes, without armor or splendor, his older brother looked at him. There were still wounds visible on his body. His face was badly slashed up, the cuts clean and just now closing. He was limping slightly and favored his left arm. The right one was carrying Tetsuseiga. Inuyasha raised himself, tensing. Sesshoumaru had never entered their quarters unannounced, never this early in the morning, and he had most definitely been aware of the scent of sex from the outside already. He bared his teeth slightly in a warning. There might be a kind of truce between them that had extended to much more than a cease fire, but this was downright unacceptable. "Don't bother getting up," Sesshoumaru remarked, arching an eyebrow. "What do you want?" the hanyou demanded. "I came to return what belongs to you." And with that Sesshoumaru placed Tetsuseiga on the bed, then stepped back, wincing only slightly. Inuyasha glanced at the sword, then his eyes returned to his brother. "Why?" "It was meant for me only once, Inuyasha. I used it. I doubt I would be able to wield it ever again. It is yours, made for you by our father. I have my own." He frowned again. Sesshoumaru just smiled and turned around, leaving them alone again. Miroku moved slightly and a soft groan left his lips. Inuyasha looked at the monk and smiled as dark eyes opened. "Hey." Miroku smiled sleepily and raised his right hand to touch him, then his eyes fell on the uncovered palm, and the smile widened in wonder, as it had done so many times in the last days since he had returned from the dead. "No dream," he whispered. Inuyasha clasped the healed hand. "No. No dream. It's over." Miroku's eyes were suddenly swimming and he squeezed them shut, trembling slightly. Inuyasha just held him, curled himself around his lover in a protective, empathic and loving hug. "It's over," Miroku whispered. "Finally."
