Chapter 21: The Dust Finally Settles…
"…Inuyasha…" The brothers both looked at the well. They could hear Kagome crying. Sesshomaru transformed into his human-like form. Inuyasha sheathed his sword. Sesshomaru started smiling.
"She called me. What are you still smil-" Inuyasha was stabbed from behind. Blood rushed out of his chest and mouth. His eye looked around. Adrenaline started pumping through his veins. Kikyo wasn't lying on the ground anymore. She was standing behind him, thrusting Urasue's scythe through his chest.
"Dammit." Inuyasha's right arm was stiff with pain, but he jerked off the scythe and turned to strike. His claws sliced across her face. Kikyo stumbled back. The three cuts on her face started to heal. Inuyasha held his chest as it continued to bleed. "How are you still alive?!"
"Selling your soul has its perks!" Kikyo smiled.
"Kikyo, I don't want to hurt you." Inuyasha grunted in pain.
"You can't." Kikyo swung the scythe at him. Inuyasha continued dodging to the best of his ability. The scythe was slicing through his shirt, leaving paper cuts on his stomach. Inuyasha inhaled deeply and mentally prepared himself to strike Kikyo again. After her swing, her left side was left unguarded. Inuyasha swiftly dodged past her weapon cocked his hand back.
"I'm sorry." His claws ripped through her neck. Her body dropped to the ground. Inuyasha looked at what he had done. Her body looked lifeless as it did before. Inuyasha bottled up his emotions. He looked around. Sesshomaru was gone. Inuyasha ran over to the well. He was about to jump in, but Kikyo was already standing on her feet. Inuyasha could hear her picking up the scythe. "Shit…"
Sesshomaru leaped into the well as Kikyo started attacking Inuyasha. He floated through the violet wormhole and appeared before Kagome. Her eyes were closed shut. Her body vibrated, her face was soaked with tears, and she continued to try to keep the immobile walls from closing in. Sesshomaru looked at the mess before him.
He inhaled quickly. He put on the most sincere face he could display. He grabbed her shoulders gently.
"Kagome." Her eyes slowly opened. Her pupils were searching his face.
"I heard you." Kagome tried to scoot away from him. "I heard you." She repeated. She almost started chanting it. Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed. "I thought you loved me." Her voice was shaky. Sesshomaru knew that the wrong words would send her over the edge. His hands cupped her damp cheeks.
"Some of those things were true. I did pursue Kikyo, but that was 50 years ago. I only added the other things to hurt Inuyasha. He thinks he's entitled to you, like you're his property… I'm sorry, but that gets under my skin. I'm so sorry Kagome." His eyes were glowing warmly. "I never meant any of what I said earlier. I am sorry." He pulled her in for a hug. She clung to him loosely. Her arms were weak and her face was stunned. Kagome was going back and forth with her head and heart. She thought he was only saying these things to cover up what he said. The Sesshomaru she heard sounded enraged, vicious, lethal, but honest… Her heart cut through her train of thoughts and illuminated on the eutony of the sweet words whispered to her. Her skin warmed up against his. She could feel herself calming down. Her heart beat was slowing, but steady. She could hear her mind quietly disagreeing with her arms finally wrapping around him. Sesshomaru let a small smug smile over her shoulder. He hugged her tighter. Kagome couldn't fight back more tears.
"Kagome." His voice was cool and smooth. His words altered the atmosphere. Kagome felt like she was slowing being place into what was reality. That Sesshomaru loved her and nothing she heard was true. She relaxed as he cradled her, like he did that first night they were together. It was almost like someone pressed the refresh button. She could feel her sobs subsiding. He leaped out of the well and landed gingerly inside the shrine. Kagome's thoughts continued to echo into her subconscious. Her heart argued against the thoughts even being considered. Kagome curled into his chest in silence. His clothes smelled like dirt, sweat, and blood. There was a faint smell of something acidic. Kagome squeezed her eyes shut and lost herself in the nostalgia of him carrying her for the first time. She thought back to how gentle he was. That night was perfect. He was so sincere. No one could fake that. He had to be telling the truth… He had to be…
"Miroku." Sango brushed her hair back. "I appreciate the help... With Koga..." Sango's heart ached from saying his name.
"No. I'm sorry. I owed you that. I shouldn't have given up on him like that. I should have trusted your judgment." Miroku almost choked, but finished swallowing his pride with a deep sigh. The sounds of Inuyasha and Sesshomaru preparing to battle continued to rattle the earth beneath them.
"I can understand why you thought my judgment was clouded." Sango half smiled, trying to lighten the mood. Miroku smiled back. He pulled Sango in with his good arm and hugged her gently.
"I'm just glad... That you're ok..." Miroku felt his heart skip a beat. He refrained from hugging her tighter. He wanted to kiss her, but he knew her heart was still with Koga. Miroku was an emotional roller coaster as he gently held her in the friendliest hug he could muster up.
*BOOM*
"Everyone get down!" Enju shouted. A gust us dust swept through. Branches chucked through the air. The villagers were mumbling and whining in fear. People were huddled together in groups. There were small earthquakes rocking the people back and forth.
"Hold on tightly. Everyone stay low!" Kaede commanded. The river splash around making waves unnaturally. The birds flew farther west. Their chirps were rapid with fear as they soared to safety.
"We should get everyone farther back..." Sango pulled away from Miroku. Her eyes avoided eye contact. Her focus fell on the families sitting together in fear.
"Right."
"Where's he going?!" Enju pointed out. The large dog demon was no longer standing over the trees. The air cooled. The villagers started to relax and stared in awe.
"Inuyasha defeated Sesshomaru!" An elder stood up. He almost couldn't believe his own words. The atmosphere lightened as the people began to relax.
"Something is wrong." Miroku mumbled.
"You damn right!" Urasue came charging from the tree line.
"What the hell?!" Sango shouted. Urasue was sending strikes of lightning from her hands. Clay warriors collapsed into pieces. Children and mothers ran screaming.
"Oh did you think I was dead?" Urasue teased. "I'm sorry, but I'M NOT!" She aimed for Sango. Sango picked up the largest shard of her broken hiraikotsu and chucked it at the witch. The shard stabbed Urasue through the stomach. Urasue grabbed the bone with her hands. She squeezed as lightning thrusted into the piece. The bone shard exploded into smaller pieces. Urasue was left standing there with a gaping hole in her body. Miroku, Enju, and Sango were staring in disgust. Her intestines were starting to fall out of her sloppily. Blood soaked the ground. Urasue's grin didn't fade. Her stomach and large intestine started to reverse back into her torso. Her liver hovered off the ground and flew back into its designated spot. Her spine started to regenerate. Her skin started to grow and recover across her stomach. Enju wanted to vomit. Sango shuddered. Miroku's eye twitched. Urasue inhaled deeply.
"What are you?!" Enju eyes were wide.
"Oh dear, I've learned a few new tricks!" Urasue struck Enju with a whip of lightning. Enju flew back and tumbled into the ground. She was unconscious. Sango couldn't believe her eyes. Urasue's hand aimed for Sango.
"SANGO MOVE!" Miroku held out his hand. "WIND TUNNEL!" Miroku unwrapped his hand as the strong winds sucked inward. Urasue struck the ground behind her. The blast sent two children into the air and into the path of the wind tunnel. "NO!" Miroku closed his hand in time and caught the screaming kids. His arm throbbed in pain.
"Miroku?!" Sango was shaking. She was trying to move, but she was scared. She didn't know what to do. "We can't beat her…"
Sesshomaru carried Kagome through the front door of her mother's house quietly. Her mother was playing with both of the babies. She had the infant channel on the TV with puppets singing nursery rhymes. The babies were lying side by side on a blanket in the middle of the floor. They wildly kicked around and waved their arms, smiling at the funny expressions their grandmother was making. Sesshomaru quietly walked up the stairs and into Kagome's room. He laid her down on her bed.
"You should rest." He started to tuck her in. Kagome quietly nodded. "I'll go help your mother." Kagome was wordless, but still nodded. He walked out and left the door cracked. Kagome immediately stood up slowly. Her body was still weak from childbirth. She took a deep breath. She opened her closet and grabbed her bow and satchel of arrows. She tiptoed toward the window and opened it as gently as she could. The window slowly slid up. Kagome pushed the mesh screen out of place and set it next to her bed on the floor. She picked up her arrows and maneuvered them through the opening as she climbed out on to the incline of the roof. Kagome carefully sidestepped toward the chimney. She put her head and shoulder through the bow and started climbing down the shaft with both hands. She made it down and took off for the well. She ran into the shrine and jumped into the well with no hesitation. The vortex reeled her in and spit her out in Feudal Japan. Kagome climbed ladder as fast as she could. She reached the top and saw signs of a struggle, but no Inuyasha or Kikyo.
Inuyasha was running through the trees trying to shake Kikyo. Her speed was impeccable. Inuyasha's body was slowly giving up. His chest was aching, the scars were starting stretch from moving, and he was losing too much blood. Inuyasha continued to push himself through the forest. The trees and its shadows grew darker. The sun was setting. Inuyasha pushed forward. His feet started to drag as his body started swaying. Gravity wasn't holding him down anymore. He started rocking and stumbling. Before he could realize it, he was on his back staring at the darkening sky. Inuyasha looked around to the best of his ability. Kikyo was gone. Inuyasha couldn't move, yet alone stay awake. His eye rolled back as his vision went black.
Sango finally scrambled to her feet and started dodging Urasue's attacks. Miroku carried the children to safety and turned around for Sango. Urasue started striking the villager's supplies. There were small fires scattered about. The men were trying to put them out. Clay warriors were throwing spears and weapons at the lightning witch. Kaede and some soldiers carried Enju away from the danger. Miroku's arm throbbed harder, but he continued running until he reached Sango.
"I need to finish this. I have another appointment to attend to." Urasue grinned. She reached up. A lightning bolt shot down from the sky into her palm. Her hand closed as the light glowed brighter. You could hear the charge increasing in her fist. The light from her hand started to light up the entire area. Urasue's eyes narrowed on Sango. Her fist was aimed straight for her. She pointed her fingers straight for Sango. The lightning barreled out of her finger tips and cut across the air. The blast's ricochet caused Urasue to stumble back. The lightning crackled straight for Sango. Miroku ran into the bolt's path. An explosion of light radiated across the land, through the trees, and into the heavens. The light was blinding. Sango screamed as she saw Miroku take her hit. Everything went white. Sango shielded her eyes. Suddenly, the light turned purple. Sango squeezed her eyes shut. The lights were blinding. Her ears filled with the shriek of Urasue.
"Sango?!" Miroku called out. He struggled to get up. "I can't see!"
"Miroku where are you?!" Sango tried to look for him. The lights were radiating from a single spot in the fields. A whirlwind of lavender lights coiled around each other, honing in on Urasue.
"NOOO!" Urasue screamed as the beam of light started burning away her flesh. Her skin sizzled into black ooze. "Why won't I regenerate?!" Urasue dropped to her knees. "What is happening?!" Urasue started to melt into the ground. "How is this possible?! This is the works of a priestess!"
"Kagome?!" Sango relaxed her eyes as the lights started to die down. She focused on the black pool that was once Urasue. In the center was an arrow, sizzling with power. "Kagome?" Sango's eyes were still adjusting.
"I'm here Sango." Kagome walked out from the bushes. She helped Sango to her feet.
"Why is it so dark?" Sango rubbed her eyes.
"The sun finished setting and my arrow blinded you. Sorry about that." Kagome walked her over to Miroku. His body was charred from Urasue's lightning strike. He rolled to his back and grunted in pain.
"Kagome? Was that you?" Miroku half smiled. "That was amazing."
"Not as amazing as you saving Sango." Kagome winked at him. Sango blushed.
"Kagome?!" Enju was riding on a warrior's back. "That was too awesome! How'd you do that?!"
"I'm a priestess by blood, I guess?" Kagome smiled humbly.
"Kagome, I've never seen anything like that before…" Sango rubbed her eyes again.
"Well it took care of Urasue." Miroku sighed as he relaxed his head into Sango's lap.
"Yeah, that just leaves one more person." Kagome stood up. Everyone fell silent. "I'll be back." Kagome started walking off into the forest.
"Kagome! Take Kirara!" Sango shouted after her.
"No, you'll need her to help with the injured villagers. I'll be fine. I know exactly where she is…" Kagome walked into the forest. Kagome felt a pull the further she walked. It became stronger with each step, but it wasn't a sacred jewel shard. It was a different feeling. It was something evil. Kagome continued walking. She had an arrow ready and steady in her hands. Her bow was sliding along her leg as she took each step. Kagome found herself at the end of the river. She could hear the roaring of the waterfall. The water reflected the blackish sky. The moon looked closer than usual. Its light illuminated the surface of the water. Kagome walked onto jagged rocks poking out of the river. Kagome stopped in the middle of the wide waters. Kikyo was standing at the other side… Smiling.
"Hello Kagome."
"Kikyo."
"I should expect a rude greeting. Inuyasha has rubbed off on you. Or should I say Sesshomaru?" Kikyo rested her index finger on her chin. "Well, Sesshomaru is the twisted one… Somehow you were tricked by his good boy act." She stiffed a laugh. "Don't worry though. You didn't miss anything with Inuyasha."
"Why is your heart so black?" Kagome frowned.
"Why does everyone keep assuming I still have one?"
Silence.
"You do know that Sesshomaru is going to kill my offspring. You might as well bring it here to me. I am the mother."
"Oh? Letting you kill her is more humane? No mother refers to her child as it! I'm not giving her back to you."
"Think about it… Kagome, do you really want that constant reminder of me? Inuyasha would be emotionally distraught. You'd have to watch Sesshomaru, because he wants it dead. She'd be treated like the bastard she is… Why even put her through that?"
"She's not a bastard, she was abandoned."
"Abandoned?! That child's sole purpose was to give me life. That was it. That's all she'll ever be, whether or not if you give her back. There will be a dark cloud looming over her. Every mistake she makes will remind you all of who she came from. Everything imperfection about her will make you question her. As she grows up, she'll start to pick up on how people treat her. She'll learn slowly, but surely who she really is and what she was suppose to be. The same goes for your child Kagome." Kagome raised her bow and aimed her arrow. "Oh, did I strike a nerve?" Kikyo pushed strands of her hair away from her eye. "Your child will be Sesshomaru's shadow, casting a wave of darkness over the lands. People will fear him. He will have the instinct to kill, just like his father… It seems we have too much in common Kagome." Kagome tugged on the bow as it stretched obediently. "Haven't we been down this road already? You won't shoot." Kikyo smiled.
"This time is different." Kagome closed one eye.
"What? I talked about your precious family, so now you're pissed off enough to kill me?!" Kikyo stiffed a laugh, feeling completely unthreatened.
"No."
"Then what's different Kagome?"
"Inuyasha isn't here to see me do this." Kagome let her arrow fly straight for Kikyo. Kikyo couldn't react fast enough. The arrow was beginning to pierce her esophagus. A bright light swipe across the sky as a funnel of swirling lavender lights poured down onto Kikyo. The sky opened up and the heavenly light focused on her.
"You… HOW?!" Kikyo screamed. Her limbs we rotting away. She couldn't escape the purifying spotlight. Kikyo collapsed onto the floor. She mustered enough strength to look at Kagome again. "You are going to end up just like me. Those brothers will push you, and push you, until you're just like…." Kikyo's body dissolved into a black acidic ooze. Kagome's body was relaxed, but Kikyo's words were echoing in her. Kagome's hands were unusually steady. She had taken someone's life and she didn't feel guilty, just hollow. The sensation frightened her. She stared at her arrow resting in the black pool. It was still sparking. Kagome took a deep breath and started to walk away. She hopped across each rock and reached the side from which she came. She slowed down and looked over her shoulder. She felt like Kikyo was still there. Just watching her walk away. Kagome looked to see her arrow still crackling purple sparks. The black mess was still there, seeping into the ground. Kagome shook off the feeling and walked through the forest. She was halfway to the well. The sky was officially its signature dark indigo. Kagome's eye had adjusted and the moon was shining bright enough for her to see. Kagome started to walk faster. She hated walking in the forest alone. She stopped and looked to her left. She could sense as very small fragment of jewel. It had to be Inuyasha. She took off in that direction.
The villagers were slowly making their way back to their damaged town. There were trees lying across rooftops. Giant holes were scattered about. Some farms were on fire. Some buildings were completely demolished into rubble. The dust started to settle on the destroyed town. The atmosphere was darkened. The people had nowhere to sleep. There were injured civilians, but no medicine hut. There was so much work to do, but it was already nightfall. Children started to cry and people started to sigh in disbelief.
"Wow…" Sango continued walking, leading the people into the village. "We can sleep in the open fields. It's too dark to see if the homes will hold up." Sango announced. "If you want to look through the town for supplies, take someone with you. Mothers, keep your children close. I don't want anyone getting trapped in collapsing buildings." Sango took a deep breath. "We'll make sure the injured are catered to and we'll start repairs in the morning, so please. Everyone try to get rest." Sango nodded, signaling she was done speaking. The people scattered about, laying out blankets for beds. Kaede directed people into a spot designated for anyone with injuries. Sango's eyes wandered over to see Miroku laying there. He was unconscious, but somehow seemed at peace. Sango's eyes wandered to the doctor. He was standing over a body. Sango became stiff. He was examining Koga's body. He looked lifeless. Sango refused to let her hopes up, but her heart was skipping. His arm moved.
"MIYATSU?!" Enju shouted. She hopped up and limb to the older man emerging from the trees.
"Enju. Are you ok?" Miyatsu saw her leg was bandaged.
"I'm just a little sore, but I'm fine!" She hugged him tightly. Sango walked over.
"You're Miroku's grandfather?!" Sango was caught off guard. "I thought-"
"Urasue forgot that I'm cursed like her and Kikyo. Ryukotsusei gave us the ability to regenerate." He sighed heavily. "I finally was able to get back up and make it here. What is going on now?!" His eyes scanned across the village. "No…" He frowned. "Is the baby safe?" His eyes fell back on Enju.
"It's ok, Miyatsu. Kagome took the children to her time." Enju smiled.
"Not to mention, her sacred arrow took out Urasue." Sango added.
"Was that the lights I saw on the way here?"
"Yes. That was Kagome." Sango grinned. "Seriously, I still can't believe she did all of that with one arrow."
"Yeah, it was blinding, but beautiful." Enju nodded.
"Oh, well good." Miyatsu's eye glanced around. His attention was caught by Miroku and his injuries. He quickly walked over and sat next to him. "What happened?" Miyatsu recognized the arm injury, but was confused about his burnt clothes.
"Urasue could manipulate lightning. He saved me." Sango half smiled. Her eyes wanted to drift to Koga. She continued to look at Miroku. "I owe him."
"You don't owe him, it's what friends do. They protect each other." Miyatsu waved at her. "You should go rest as well. I can tell you been though a lot." Miyatsu's eyes glanced over to Koga and back to Miroku.
"I guess you're right." Sango quickly walked away. She sat next to Kirara. The feline purred and rubbed against her. "Go look for Kagome." She whispered. The cat transformed and took off quietly. She watched her pet fly off over the trees and finally laid down. She curled up and hugged her knees. She fought back every urge to cry. Her mind was a scattered mess, but she managed to fall into a deep sleep.
Kagome continued running until she saw red. She could see his pants. Kagome climbed over thorny bushed and stumbled over to Inuyasha. She saw dried blood on his clothes. "Inuyasha?" Kagome touched his forehead. He didn't respond. Kagome started opening his shirt. She saw that his wound was fresh, but it was healing. It somehow managed to say uninfected. Kagome took off her satchel off arrows and reached into the very bottom. She pulled out some clean bandages and Neosporin spray. She sprayed the opening on his chest. His fingers slightly wiggled from the sting. Kagome then sat him upward and dragged him to a nearby boulder. She laid him against the smooth rock. She paused to catch her breath. Inuyasha was still unconscious. Kagome continued. She started removing his shirt. His back had dirt mixed in with blood. She started spraying his back as she tried to wiped away as much of the dirt as she could, using his shredded shirt. She started wrapping the bandages around his torso. She finally finished and laid him again the rock again. Kagome started studying his face. A wave of mixed emotions started bubbling. She started brushing his hair back. Her hand trailed down the lining of his jaw. She quickly pulled her hand back. Kagome felt conflicted. She knew he'd be upset about Kikyo. "I'm sorry, Inuyasha…" She gave him a hug. "For everything…" Kagome tried to pull away, but she wanted to hug him harder. She couldn't help herself. Her arms looped around his neck gently as tears rolled down her cheek. "I'm so sorry…" She stopped mid sob. She could hear Inuyasha. He was sniffing her. Kagome was frozen to the sound of him sniffing her hair. One of his arms cupped around her.
"It's ok." Inuyasha's eyes were still closed. His arm fell back to his side. Kagome smiled weakly. She sat next to him and cuddled against him. Her eyelids were starting to feel watery and heavy. She would have fallen asleep, but she could see Kirara landing ahead of them.
"Kirara." Kagome stood up and shook herself awake. She was able to get Inuyasha onto Kirara. After catching her breath, she climbed on. Kirara gently rose into the sky and carried them back to the village.
The sun started rising along with the villagers. Sango watched the sun rise into the sky. She tried to enjoy the glowing clouds shielding her from the sunrays, but the light was still shining down on the dismantled buildings. Sango's heart felt heavy. She started to imagine her own village destroyed like this. Sango took a deep breath. She looked around. The men were starting to gather, making plans to repair. Sango turned to see Inuyasha lying next to Koga. They were both unconscious. She looked around for Miroku. He was semi awake. He was staring into the sky with a small smile. It was obvious that he couldn't really move. Sango shook her head. Kaede approached her.
"Some buildings aren't as badly damage. I've ask the men to start there and work their way around. The smelter's hut and the infirmary are the first to be repaired." Kaede sighed. There were men marching and chattering toward the village. Some of the women started searching for food in the destroyed fields.
"That's fine. You should join the women in the fields. Enju sent a fleet of warriors with Miyatsu to receive medicines from Jinenji. I'll check on these guys and then head into the village." Sango nodded.
"Alright, sounds like a plan." Kaede agreed.
"Oh, Lady Kaede, where's Kagome?"
"She disappeared in the night. I assume she went home." Kaede shrugged and continued to the fields. Sango's shoulders dropped. She looked back at Inuyasha.
"Oh, well ok." Sango lightly frowned. Sango's eye wandered to Koga. She could see that he was breathing on his own, barely. She could feel a small smile curling on her face. She took a deep breath and focused on the problems at hand. She started to gather her bone shards and make her way to the smelter's hut. She walked away quietly. Her head was cloudy of thoughts about Koga. His chest was moving, meaning he was breathing. He could make a full recovery. Sango could feel her heart levitating from off her stomach. She then remembered how Naraku used him as a shield. How the wind ripped across the town. Sango's heart resank. She started to wonder if he would be free from Naraku. Sango felt her small smile die. Her heart was aching again. She suddenly thought of Miroku. He was so upset that night, when she covered for Kagome. She knew he was in love with her, especially after yesterday. If they both woke up… She wouldn't know what to do...
Kagome was cuddling her sweet son. He was half asleep, occasionally suckling. She was sitting in her new home. The living room was walled in soft cobalt with chocolate leather couches. The windows were wide with matching cobalt and moss green curtains pushed to the sides, allowing the sun to explode in the room. There was a peaceful silence. The home was built to perfection. The colors were soothing and fresh. Kagome smiled at her son again. He was falling deeper into his slumber. She slowly stood up and walked gingerly up the oak steps. She pushed the first door on the right open. The large room had two different, but matching cribs inside. The walls were a bright watercolor yellow with white silhouettes of clouds scattered around. The ceiling was a light grey with yellow glow in the dark star sticks. The changing table and other furniture matched the grey ceiling. There were plastic bags, shopping bags and receipts pilled in one corner. Kagome brushed backed the burgundy strands of hair exploding from her son's soft scalp. He gave a slight smile in his sleep. She gently laid him inside his crib and covered him with a blue cotton blanket. He wiggled around waving his little fists, but relaxed quietly. Kagome smiled again. She looked over to the next crib. Sayuri's eyes were rolling around looking at the ceiling, the walls, and then Kagome. She had kicked off her blanket and looked wide awake. Her eyes were glued on Kagome. Kagome felt herself stiffen momentarily. She reached down to pick up the small blonde baby. She cradled her into her chest upright. Sayuri immediately clung to her shirt, grabbing it with her tiny fingers. Before Kagome could leave the room, her shoulder was covered with slob. Sayuri hummed and looked around with the polyester shoulder sleeve in her mouth. Kagome's heart warmed. She could feel Sayuri resting on her shoulder, smacking on her shirt. Kagome tried to fight off the smile. She failed. Kagome started tickling her tummy before she laid her down for a diaper change. Sayuri lit up and wiggled as she grinned, laughing like a duck. Her legs kicked and her arms waved as the little girl laughed a toothless smile with Kagome. Her jade eyes twinkled with delight. Kagome gave a quiet laugh as she started unbuttoning the bottom of her small sweatpants. Sayuri kicked her legs out playfully. Kagome then proceeded to remove her diaper, making kissy faces at her. Kagome lifted her legs and slid the wet pamper from her and quickly slipped in a clean one in replacement. Sayuri continued to kick around excitedly. Kagome opened the box of wipes on the shelf under the changing bed. She held her legs steady as she wiped her bottom clean. Sayuri continued kicking her legs and wiggled around as Kagome hassled to finish the job. She fastened the tape of the diaper and refastened the snaps at the bottom of her t-shirt. Kagome blew a kiss at Sayuri again as she tried putting on her pants. After three attempts, Kagome gave up and let the baby girl be pants free. Sayuri was still kicking. The child was happy and full of life. She smiled at everything Kagome did. Looking at her made Kagome's heart break. Her hands scooped up the sweet infant with teary eyes. She flashed back to killing Kikyo. The black ooze sizzling around her arrow was all that was left of her. She was holding her child enjoying these precious moments the morning after she killed her. Kagome's heart skipped a beat. She supported Sayuri's back as she quietly made her way downstairs. She tiptoed into the kitchen and froze. Sesshomaru was sitting at the table. He was shirtless. He looked irritated.
"What are you doing?" He sighed.
"What?" Kagome was pulling strands of her hair from Sayuri's mouth.
"Where's Kazue?" He looked at Sayuri disapprovingly.
"He's sleeping upstairs." Kagome cocked an angry eyebrow.
"Good." He stood up and brushed past her silently. His presence was intimidating. Sayuri was very still, but continued to gnaw on her fist and part of Kagome's shirt. He stopped mid stride and looked over his shoulder. "I love you."
"I know. I love you too." Kagome almost sounded like a robot. She could feel his eyes searching her. Sayuri suddenly started crying. She knew he looked at her. "Aw sweety…" Kagome started patting her butt and turned to look at Sesshomaru. He frowned at her. Kagome's eye narrowed angrily. Sesshomaru squinted his eyes and went up the stairs slowly. Kagome took a deep breath and started kissing and hugging the crying infant. "I know baby… I know… He's a jerk…" Kagome could feel her heart sink. She started fearing Kikyo's words. Sesshomaru was obviously unhappy about her keeping Sayuri. He would want her gone. He said it himself, she was only a tool for Kikyo. Nothing more. Sayuri hiccupped and squirmed. Kagome sat down on the couch and sat Sayuri on her lap facing her. She made funny faces and gave her kisses. Sayuri started watching and began to half smile. Her tears still rolled out of her eyes, but she was smiling again. Kagome reached for a tissue off the coffee table and gently wiped her eyes. She could feel Sayuri calming down in her arms. Kagome cuddled her and turn on the 57 inch. It chimed and lit up. Kagome turned to the Sprout Channel. There were shapes wiggling across the screen. Sayuri's eyes widened as they locked onto the screen. Kagome's shoulders relaxed. Sayuri was quiet again, shoving her mini fists into her mouth. Kagome could feel her energy being drained. Being a mother of two children, in a home with a man she doesn't trust anymore was overwhelming. Along with the amount of sleep she barely received, she was running on stomach acid. How did I get here? None of this is right. I shouldn't be holding the little girl when I killed her mother hours ago. I shouldn't be living here with Sesshomaru. How did all this happen? How could someone come in and change my life so abruptly? Is Sesshomaru in love with me? He was so gentle and kind. I know he wasn't like that before, but he might have been opening up to me. I mean, Inuyasha opens up to me… Inuyasha… I wonder if he's ok? I wish I could have stayed, but Sesshomaru… I know he wouldn't hurt me, but I can't trust him alone around Sayuri. She didn't do anything. Was Kikyo telling the truth? He's just angry at her because she chose Inuyasha? Is that why he swooped in that night? It was just an opportunity? He just wanted a son… And I gave him one….Why did he lie? But he was so sweet. That day at the festival… That wasn't fake. He actually grinned. He looked happy. I know he's capable of it. He loves Rin. He wanted to move her here after the violence died down. He wanted to be a family. He wasn't lying. Sesshomaru wasn't lying. Kagome ran her fingers through Sayuri's hair. It was an explosion of soft blonde strands that defied gravity. The small girl wiggled and smiled, but her attention was still on the TV. There were cute puppets singing the alphabets. Kagome lost her train of thought. Her mother entered through the front door. Kagome turned around and faked an enthusiastic smile.
"Kagome, good morning." Her mother was practically the sun. She swooped in and grabbed Sayuri before she sat down. "And good morning Sayuri!" She tickled her tummy. Sayuri wiggled and smile.
"Morning mom." Kagome leaned her head on her shoulder.
"Where's your big brother Sayuri?" Kagome's mom showered Sayuri with kisses. Before Kagome could respond, Sesshomaru was on his way out of the door.
"She has no brother." Sesshomaru said monotone as he slipped out the door.
"I see he's still upset." Her mother frowned. "Why is he so against this child?" Her mother kissed Sayuri's forehead. "She's so sweet."
"He can't let it go, her parents. I mean… It's Kikyo's daughter." Kagome sighed. "I don't think he'll ever accept her."
"Just give him time. His family was threatened. He might just need time to cool off. Sesshomaru and Inuyasha both have something in common."
"What's that?"
"Once they have something close to them, they protect it with their life."
"That is true, but… Sesshomaru is different." Kagome wish she hadn't have just said that. Her mother looked at her, hearing how cryptic her words were. There was a pause. "I mean, they're different. Sesshomaru and Inuyasha have different personalities, but you're right. They're both protective." Kagome smiled. Guilt was tingling in her dimples. She was lying to her mother again. Sayuri started spitting bubbles.
"Awww!" Her mother was distracted.
"I'm going to check on Kazue." Kagome giggled at Sayuri and headed upstairs. She peaked into the babies' room. Kazue was asleep. Kagome looked at her son. He didn't even really look like her. He had his father's markings. His hair was practically strawberry silver. He had his father's eyes. Kagome was looking for a resemblance. His toe nails were starting to point already. Kagome sighed deeply. I hope he doesn't have his father's heart… Kagome recovered him with the blue blanket and went back downstairs.
"Shouldn't you go check on Inuyasha, Sango, and Miroku?" Her mother called out. Kagome had entered the kitchen to finally eat. "I can take my grandbabies again. They know grandma loves her babies!" Her mom started kissing the giggling baby girl again.
"I will. I think Sesshomaru went to do that, so… I should probably just stay here." Kagome started thinking about Inuyasha. His wounds we deep and there was blood everywhere. It was killing her, not knowing if he was ok. She wanted to see him and her friends. Kagome sighed lightly as she turned on the stove top. The black surface of the stove suddenly had an orange circle in the bottom right corner. Kagome placed a frying pan on top of it and spray it lightly with a can of cooking vegetable oil. The pan heated up as she grabbed two eggs from the fridge. She cracked them open and dropped each yolk into the pan with a sizzle.
"I still think you should go ahead. They haven't seen you ever since the chaos. They need a happy face there. Sesshomaru, in his current state, might… Make things… A bit worse…" Her mother tried to think of a kinder way of saying it, but there really was no other way to put it. Kagome continue pushing around the eggs with a spatula in a momentary silence.
"Ok. I'll eat, take a shower, and head over there. Just for a little bit!" Kagome sighed again, quietly.
"Good." Her mother played peek-a-boo with Sayuri. The infant was a roller coaster of facial expressions. Kagome couldn't help but grin when she heard Sayuri's duck-like laugh.
Inuyasha's eyes fluttered open. He could smell his brother's sent. He was back in Feudal Japan. He tried moving, but his body denied him. He felt stiff and achy. His eyes adjusted to the sunrays. The clouds were passing over. His eyes rolled around. He saw he was lying next to Koga. He flashed back to him being manipulated my Naraku. He felt bad for him. He could see parts of Miroku's face past Koga. Inuyasha saw his eyes were open, but he was focused on the sky. Inuyasha inhaled as deep as he could and sat up right. His entire torso erupted in agony. Inuyasha let out a low growl. His lungs tightened. Inuyasha still stayed upright and looked out across to the village. He could hear men at work. He also heard Kaede barking orders at children who were playing around the ruined farms. Inuyasha grinned a little bit. Glad everyone is ok. Inuyasha spotted his brother emerging from the tree line. Inuyasha immediately thought of Kagome. He tried to remember how he had got back to the village. I could have sworn… Kagome saved me…
"Inuyasha, lie back down. You need more time to recover." Enju approached from behind. Her soldiers had just arrived with medicine. "Drink this." She handed him a wooden container. "A nurse will be by to rub down your injuries with medicine, but you need to stay horizontal-" Enju gently pushed him to his back. "And rest."
"How did I get here?" Inuyasha looked Enju in the eyes. He could see her breathing skip. Sango approached them.
"Go ahead and distribute the rest of the medicine Enju." Sango kneeled down next to Inuyasha. She leaned in close. "Kagome brought you back." She whispered. Inuyasha inhaled deeply. "She saved all of us."
"What do mean?" Inuyasha coughed suddenly. Sango sat him up and helped him finish the medicine.
"Get some rest. I'll we'll talk later." Sango stood and glanced at both Koga's and Miroku's body.
"I think Miroku is hallucinating. He's just staring at the sky." Enju sighed. She was standing over him, in his line of vision. Miroku's eyes didn't narrow to focus on her. He looked right through her. Sango froze in a slight panic. Enju could read her face. "BUT other than that, he's doing ok… As far as his physical health. A nurse drained his arm of a nice majority of the poison. His arm isn't as… purple?" Enju tried to sound positive.
"Yeah." Sango swallowed hard. "And what about Koga?"
"He hasn't woken up yet. The only thing he's doing… Is breathing…" Enju walked over to him. "His wounds are trying to close… The medicine should help though." Enju look across Koga's chest. She looked up to smile at Sango, but she had already started walking away. "San-…..go…." Enju's shoulders dropped. Inuyasha stayed quiet. He knew she had been through a lot too. Inuyasha's eyelids became heavy.
"The hell?" Inuyasha muttered.
"Jinenji said the medicine puts you to sleep, so don't fight it. Let the remedy help you Inuyasha." Enju pulled a blanket over his body.
"Great…" Inuyasha rolled his eyes, partially involuntary. He could see Sesshomaru getting closer to him right before everything went black. Sesshomaru was standing over Inuyasha. He looked down at Enju.
"I'm guessing he's fine." Sesshomaru sounded emotionless. Enju was startled, it felt like he spoke suddenly.
"Oh, yeah. Everyone seems to be doing ok."
"I only asked about Inuyasha." His eyes narrowed on her.
"I'm… Sorry…" Enju felt chills. Sesshomaru turned away, then he stopped.
"Who defeated Kikyo and Urasue?" Sesshomaru demanded. His question sounded like it ended with a period.
"I'm not…. Sure…" Enju was afraid. "Sango knows…" She sighed hesitantly. He sighed and walked away from her. Enju shook off her goose bumps and stood to administer medicine to Miroku. He continued staring into the blue abyss of the illuminated space above him. Miroku was in a whole different world. He was seeing colors and shapes dance across and in front of him. He was flashing back to the battle, but everything was different. He could see the hurricane coming out of Koga. He was holding on to Sango. She was glowing. No matter how hard the winds tried to pull her away from him, she clung to him like a magnet. She was looking into his eyes, smiling. She looked so happy in his arms. The winds, the battle, and Koga didn't matter anymore. He had Sango and everything was ok. The longer he stared at her, the more colors he saw. Miroku was taken aback by the sensation. He knew it wasn't real and it was probably a side effect of the poison… But he enjoyed every second of it. His hands framed her face. His nerves were vibrating. He could and couldn't feel her, but he could see her. Her eyes were mesmerizing. Her brown eyes sparkled with flashes of rainbow glares. Her skin was silky and shiny. Miroku's eyes were glued on to her and nothing else. Miroku knew this wasn't a reality, but he couldn't fight the sudden feelings of peace and happiness bubbling inside him. He pulled her in for a kiss. Her lips were smooth, but she tasted like medicine. He slowly pulled away. The taste was spreading through his mouth. Miroku was confused. He could feel it filling his mouth. He continuously swallowed, trying to rid the unpleasant taste. His eyes slightly watered. He continued swallow in a mild panic. He thought he was about to die, but the filling sensation stopped. He could still taste the remedy, but it was finally starting to fade. His attention focused on Sango again. He couldn't hear anything over the wind. She was mouthing something to him. Miroku smiled. Yes of course, Sango, I feel better. He leaned forward and rested his forehead on hers. Everything is just perfect.
Sesshomaru walked into the village. There were multiple groups of men eyeing him. There were support beams being tested, logs being rolled through to be cut, and the sounds of tools banging and clanging. Some men we on top of building that were still standing. They were repairing the roof with dried tall grass. Sesshomaru saw a large group of people in the center of the small town. They were repairing the hospital. Sesshomaru trolled through, gliding on his own arrogance. He didn't make eye contact with anyone. He could feel some of them looking at him. Sesshomaru's eyes were stone cold. He felt no sympathy. It was collateral damage. He finally made it to where Sango was. She was helping the blacksmith gather his supplies out of the building so he could do some work outdoors, while his back wall was being replaced.
"Sango." Sesshomaru commanded.
"Sesshomaru, I'm surprised you're back here."
"Who defeated Kikyo and Urasue?"
"No, we got it, but thanks though." Sango walked back into the gaping hole in the wall and grabbed more supplies.
"Who defeated them?" Sesshomaru became inpatient.
"No, I'm fine. My hiraikotsu is broken though." Sango continued helping remove items. The other men looked at her nervously. Sesshomaru fell silent with irritation. Sango finally stopped and approached him to answer his question. "Some sacred arrows were sent from the heavens…" Sesshomaru's ears burned from her sarcasm. He brushed past her and headed for the well wordlessly. He slowed down his walk. He knew Kagome had came back, but she actually killed. Kagome killed Kikyo and Urasue. The thought made him grin. Maybe Kagome is stronger than I thought. He sighed as he casually walked into the forest. She snuck out and eliminated Kikyo and Urasue. Then she comes home and takes care of my son like nothing happened. We have a lot more in common than I originally thought. Well done Kagome.
Kagome had finally stepped out of the shower. She could almost hear her mom cuddling and kissing Sayuri. Kazue was still asleep. He was not an early morning baby. Kagome wrapped herself in a plush, soft cotton, white towel. Her skin almost sang. It felt amazing. She tied her damp hair in a bun and walked into her bedroom. She almost frowned. The color scheme was glass, black, and red. The bed looked like a square block of blood. The underlying sheets were black. The decorative pillows were either black or red or just a solid black with detailing stitched across one side. The black colors made her think of Kikyo. She could barely sleep when she returned. It was like sleeping in the black oozy remains of Kikyo. It was even worse when she got up to make the bed. The comforter reminded her of all the blood coming out of Inuyasha. Kagome shuddered. She quickly started getting dressed. She took out the bun and dried her hair again with the towel. It was damp, but she wanted to hurry and go see how everyone was doing and save them from Sesshomaru. Kagome paused and rolled her eyes. He's probably giving everyone a hard time. I should hurry. I think I actually have three kids. Kagome tried to push away her negative feelings and tried to relax. She grabbed her backpack and walked downstairs.
"Ok, Kazue will probably wake up at 10:30. I won't be gone too long but there's enough milk in there for today."
"I told you the pump was useful!" Her mother called out as Kagome opened the front door.
"Yeah yeah." Kagome teased as she closed the door. She power walked past her mother's house to the shrine. Before she could reach the door, she heard someone come through the well. The purple lights died down. She saw a flash of silver hair. Her heart skipped a beat. The door slid open.
"Kagome." Sesshomaru had a sly grin on his face. "Your heart skipped a beat." Kagome was silent.
"Yeah I was just a bit overwhelmed, that's all." Kagome gave a stiff nervous laugh. "I was just going to go check on everybody." Kagome was praying he didn't know what she did last night.
"Everyone is fine. They're rebuilding." His smile didn't fade. Kagome was nervous.
"Well, that's good…" Kagome felt completely awkward.
"You sleep well?..." Sesshomaru stroked her face. His hand was soft. Kagome nodded. "Of course you did." He started to walk away.
"What's that suppose to mean?!" Kagome immediately kicked herself. She should have just let him walk.
"Kagome, you surprise me every day." He was looking at her intensely. She could feel her body rattle. She couldn't figure out what was going on. He seemed almost in a delight, but it wasn't necessarily a good thing. He pulled her in for a hug. His lips were on her ear. "Kagome. I know what you did." Kagome turned into stone. "I'm glad you did. It seems we both are capable of doing what needs to be done. I never thought you could. I'm rubbing off on you." Sesshomaru's tone was mildly unreadable, but she knew he was happy about her killing Kikyo. Urasue was just a bonus. Kagome felt a degrading wave of shame hit her. Sesshomaru acted as if he was just now respecting her, only because she killed. "You go ahead." He kissed her forehead and started to walk away. He almost looked accomplished. "Go see your friends." He said over his shoulders. Kagome was left standing speechless. She nervously fiddled with her fingers. She watched him walk away from her. He wasn't upset at all. Kagome turned to go inside the shrine. She tried to shake off the moment but it was lingering. I killed people. I know they were destroying everything, but… Am I a murderer now? It's not like slaying demons at all. They were people. They were twisted and wicked, but still people. I wonder what everyone else thinks. I wonder what Inuyasha would think. I hope he isn't awake just yet. Kagome hopped into the well and disappeared into the purple light.
Koga couldn't feel or see. He was in complete darkness. He heard nothing. He felt outside of his own body. He felt weightless. He could hear Sango screaming for him. He couldn't speak. He started hearing winds in the distance. The sound was a soft but violent whistling. It faded in and out. Sango was screaming his name. She sounded so upset and afraid. He had to get out of this state, but didn't know how. Suddenly the blackness was fading. Koga found himself standing in the hot springs. He couldn't feel the moisture or the heat. He was just there. He saw Sango floating in the water. She looked beautiful. Her skin was glowing in the warm lake. She smiled at him. Koga smiled back. He tried to move, but he realized that he didn't have a tangible body. He was like a spirit. He was still immobile. Koga was confused about his physical or nonphysical state. He just wanted to get in the springs with Sango. He looked at her face again as she slowly drifted across the water's surface. He wanted to hold her again, but something was wrong. Her hair was long. Extremely long and it was growing. It darkened the water until it looked like she was floating in tar. Miroku emerged from the tar and grabbed Sango. He glared at Koga and sunk back into the water, pulling Sango along with him. Sango screamed for Koga. She splashed around in the black water fighting the pull. Koga became angry. He wanted to save her, but he couldn't. Koga tried with all his might to move, but he couldn't. Koga try to thrust his legs forward. He looked down to see that they were there, but transparent. He stared at his legs, focusing on his muscles. He could feel them faintly. He was able to make his calf muscle flex. His right leg became less transparent. Sango screamed his name again. He started lifting his right leg. It was like was pulling his legs into existence. He then stomped on the ground with his right foot. He could feel it. His right leg wasn't transparent anymore. He then started working on his left. He was able to wiggle his foot first, and then bend his knee. He then raised his leg as high as possible. Both his legs were working. He started flexing his muscles on his chest and took a deep breath. His torso was tangible. Koga rolled his neck around and cracked it. The only thing left was his arms. Koga felt like he was trying to lift the entire planet. Sango was almost engulfed in the black pool. She saw tiring out. Koga's body started vibrating as he tried to move his arms. His fingers started twitching. Sango's face slowly slipped underwater. NO. His elbows started to creek with movement. He could feel his veins starting to pump blood again. He was almost free to move. He was almost free.
"He's having a seizure!" Enju shouted. Two other women ran over to help hold down Koga's body. It violently rattled around. You could hear his chest heaving. They turned him on his side. His eyelids parted, but his eyes were rolled back. Enju quickly grabbed a damp blanket and dabbed his forehead. The women sat around him as he continued to shake and quiver. "What do we do now?"
"We'll have to wait until he stops." The nurse sighed heavily. "I'll go get the doctor." She scurried away. Enju frowned. The other nurse took over and started dabbing his forehead with the cloth.
"Go ahead, I can take it from here." She kept a hand on Koga's shoulder. The doctor and nurse both returned, shooing Enju out off the way.
"Oh ok." Enju stepped back and watched as Koga slowly relaxed. His body was switching less vigorously. His breathing became heavy as he finally came to a holt. You could hear the relief in Koga's breathing. "Kagome?!" Enju looked to see Kagome sprinting to Koga.
"The jewel shards in his body are glowing." Kagome's eyes narrowed on the violent lights exploding in Koga's limbs. Kagome could see that the jewels were trying to purify themselves, but they were still fading into blackness. Kagome took a deep breath. She placed her hands on both of his legs. The doctor and nurses stood by quietly. A soft sparkle emitted from her hands. His legs started glowing. The shards were whitening. A small flash of light popped. The jewel shards were a bright pure purple. Kagome then grabbed his arm for the final shard. Her hand glowed again. The shard sparkled a bright purple. Kagome's shoulders dropped. She looked over at everyone surrounding with a smile. "Well that was a close one!" She smiled.
"Kagome you're so amazing!" Enju was in awe.
"It's no big deal. Good thing I got here when I did." Kagome stood up and back away from Koga as the doctor and nurses started checking Koga. Kagome shook off her goose bumps. That was close. Kagome looked over to see Inuyasha was sleeping. He looked better. His face wasn't pale.
"How did you know he needed help?!" Enju interrupted Kagome's thoughts.
"When I came out the well, I saw black and purple lights. I sensed the jewel shards, but there was a dark presence looming within them. So I ran over to help." Kagome shrugged.
"Whoa." Enju was marveling at her. "Your timing is impeccable!" Kagome laughed and tried to end the conversation. She knew Enju was going to bring up her defeating Kikyo and Urasue. Kagome didn't want to chance Inuyasha hearing it in his sleep.
"He's walking up!" A nurse waved them over to Koga.
"Enju, go get Sango." Kagome walked over to Koga his eyes were rolling around lazily. He growled with each exhale.
"Koga, can you hear me?" Kagome waved her hand in front of his face. His eye continued to look around in confusion. He gave a small groan before speaking.
"You're making me dizzy." He muttered.
"Oh… Sorry…" Kagome stopped waving in his face and smiled. "You had everybody worried, mister."
"Where's Sango?" Koga's eye adjusted. He saw faces he wasn't interested in seeing.
"She's on the way, sheesh." Kagome rolled her eyes. "We'll give you some space." Kagome and the other walked away. Koga looked at the sky. Everything seemed normal. The clouds rolled by. There were birds chirping and flying. The wind was soft and cooling. Koga could feel his body again. His limbs were aching and his back was sore, but he was glad to be able to feel again. He inhaled and exhaled smoothly. Kagome looked to see Sango fly over on Kirara. "Here she comes." Kagome teased before walking away.
"Koga?!" Sango hopped off of Kirara and walked over to him. "Koga?" Her eyes locked onto to his.
"Hey Sango." Koga gave his usual smug grin. Sango sat on the ground and laid next to him. She cuddled against him. Koga swallowed hard as his heart skipped a beat. He could feel her silky hair on his arm. Her body heat was refreshing. Koga sighed heavily. Sango closed her eyes and quietly let tears fall from her eyes. Koga could feel her tears dripping onto his chest. "Is it raining?"
"Shutup." Sango mumbled as she curled into him tighter. Kagome half smiled until she caught Miroku staring at them. He couldn't really move him head, but his eyes were forcing their way over. His face was stunned. He looked upset, but not surprised. Koga squeezed her tighter while staring into the sky. He was unaware of Miroku. Kagome shuddered and wanted to step in, but she didn't know what to do.
"Miroku." Miyatsu walked over and sat between him and Koga. "I'm glad you're alright." Miroku blinked at him.
"You don't look so good." Miroku's voice cracked.
"I know. Time is running out for me… Again…" Miyatsu gave a small laugh. "I wish I wasn't dragged into any of this, but getting to meet you made it worthwhile. I'm glad I was able to help you and your friends." He glanced over his shoulder at Koga and Sango, then back at Miroku. Miroku gave him an irritated look. Miyatsu leaned down and whispered to him. "Then go get her." Miyatsu grinned and stood up again. "I must get going. My time runs out when the sun sets." He walked away quickly before Miroku could say goodbye. He headed to Kagome and Enju who were standing off at a distance.
"MIYATSU!" Enju jumped toward him for a hug. "What took you so long?!" She poked him in the chest.
"I walked all the way here ok?!" He poked her in the forehead and gave her a sweet smile.
"I'm guessing you're Miyatsu." Kagome smiled. Miyatsu froze and stared at her.
"This is Kagome." Enju said. "It was her sacred arrows that saved everyone."
"Magnificent. You look just like-
"I know." Kagome sighed. She shook her head. "Apparently I'm her reincarnation, but don't worry. I'm not like her." Kagome felt so embarrassed. At that moment she realized she was related to the monster that helped terrorized the village and she was with the demon that actually destroyed a nice portion of the town.
"I hate to say it, but you look just like her." Miyatsu shook his head. "And those lights… You are very powerful…"
"Thank you." His words lingered in Kagome's ears. She thought about Sesshomaru.
"I should get going. The longer I stay, the more upset I'll be." He gave another small laugh. Enju frowned. "Don't frown, Enju." He kissed her forehead. "I'll be fine, just look out for my grandson." Both Enju and Kagome looked over to the heart aching sight. "He's going to need some guidance." He shook his head as he stared at his grandson. Miroku's eyes were closed, but his face looked angry.
"Yeah." Kagome sighed.
"Hm." Enju scratched her head.
"I guess I'll be going… No goodbyes ok?" Miyatsu smiled.
"Right." Enju nodded.
"Travel safely." Kagome added.
"I shall." Miyatsu disappeared into the forest as quietly as he appeared. Enju's shoulders dropped.
"Kagome, I hate to ask, but is there anything you can do to help?" Enju's eyes were wide and teary.
"I'm not sure. He'll most likely end up like the others. I don't want to chance it and be responsible for his departing as well." Kagome folded her arms in deep thought.
"I understand." Enju looked upset. Kagome felt bad.
"I'm sorry. I wish I knew exactly how my powers work." Kagome sighed again.
"It's ok. I should get some soldiers to help rebuild anyway." The cheer was gone from Enju's voice. She walked away with a cloud looming over her.
"Ok." Kagome stood alone, looking over at Inuyasha. He was still asleep. She wanted to sit next to him, but she knew a number of problems could amount from it. He might wake up and ask what happened. Sesshomaru might catch her with him. Kagome rolled her eyes at her overactive but accurate imagine. She took a deep breath and decided to go home. She didn't move. I guess I can just go check his temperature. Kagome sped over to Inuyasha and quietly kneeled next to him. Her hands were shaky, but she gently rested her palm on his forehead. He was sweaty, but a good warm temperature. Kagome smiled at him. Kagome pulled her hand away and stood up. Ok, well he's fine. I should just go. Kagome turned away from him and walked slowly toward the village. She checked over her shoulder to make sure he wasn't awake watching. He was still asleep. Kagome finally focused on getting home. If she had checked a third time, she would have seen Inuyasha watching her walk to the other end of the forest, returning to the well. He grinned and closed his eyes again.
Kagome walked into her home. Sesshomaru was on the couch with Kazue in his arms. They were both watching American Ninja Warrior. Well Sesshomaru, Kazue was trying to eat his hands. Kagome's heart swelled. Literally, Sesshomaru was watching TV with a miniature him in his lap. Kagome closed the door. Sesshomaru turned his head toward her, but his eyes were stuck on the TV. Kagome rolled her eyes and headed for the steps. He walked up assuming Sayuri was napping. She entered the nursery and saw that it was empty. Kagome's skin crawled. He didn't… Where is Sayuri? Sesshomaru what did you do?! Kagome stormed back downstairs and stared at Sesshomaru intensely. He felt her glared and stared back. Kazue farted.
"Where's Sayuri?" Kagome kept an even tone.
"Your mother took her to the store." Sesshomaru's face was blank. Kagome quickly walked out of the house and ran over to her mother's. The door was unlocked, like usual. She stormed in looking around for her mother and Sayuri.
"KAGOME!" Her grandfather shouted.
"Grandpa! Where's mom?!" She called back as she hiked upstairs.
"Your mother took Sayuri and Rin to the store." He yelled back. Kagome paused. Rin?! She's here?! When did Sesshomaru bring her over?! I hope she didn't get caught up in the battles from yesterday… Kagome started to head back downstairs until she heard laughter coming from her brother's room. She opened the door and found Sota and Shippo.
"Shippo?!" Kagome was surprised to see him. "How did you… I thought you were-" Kagome paused again. How could I not have realized that he wasn't in the village. There was so much going on… I forgot about Shippo and Rin.
"Oh hey Kagome!" Shippo smiled.
"Hey sis!" Sota chirped.
"Shippo. Where have you been?!" Kagome was so confused.
"Oh, I left the village with Rin and Jaken a couple days ago. We were traveling all over until today. Sesshomaru brought us here. It was weird, because he wouldn't let us stop by the village. I assumed it was because he still hates Inuyasha. After he dropped us off here, he went back to the village again. I wanted to go, but I figured he really didn't want us going there." Shippo was playing the game with Sota.
"Yeah then mom took Sayuri and Rin out with her." Sota added. Kagome sighed with relief. "Hey where is Inuyasha anyway?!"
"Back at the village." Kagome rolled her eyes. If Shippo and Rin didn't already know about it, she didn't plan on telling. She quickly left the boys to their games and walked back downstairs. "I'm going home grandpa."
"OH WELL ALRIGHTY DEAR!" Kagome walked up the pathway to her front door and stopped. I can't believe that Sesshomaru didn't do anything… But am I wrong for thinking he would?! I think he might… As longs as my mom has her, she's safe… I guess… Kagome opened the front door. Sesshomaru hadn't moved. Kazue was kicking repeatedly and drooling. Kagome sat next to him calmly.
"Everything ok?" Sesshomaru sat staring at the commercial for Applebee's Two-For-One Special.
"Yeah."
"You thought-"
"Yes…"
"I deserve an apology." He grinned without looking away from the television.
"…. Sorry…." Kagome rolled her eyes.
"Also, our son is growing a tail." He added, nonchalant. Kagome jumped.
"A what?!" Sesshomaru held Kazue up. Kagome reached and felt a subtle lump on his lower back. "Just great. What do we do?"
"What do mean?!"
"Nothing. Forget it." Kagome rolled her eyes. She had to remind herself that having a tail in Feudal Japan was partially the norm. She then focused on Sesshomaru. His character was constantly changing. I can't figure him out. He's vicious and distant in his time, but he's less distant and casual here. I feel like I'm dating a chameleon. I had a child with him, planned a wedding, and I'm living in a house with him… And I can't read him like he does with me. I want to love him, but I feel like I don't actually know him. I probably rushed into all of this, but I felt something with him. I really did start falling in love with Sesshomaru, but maybe…. There's more to him then I originally thought. Maybe I went all in with Sesshomaru because of Inuyasha. I wanted this for him and I, but he was so stuck on Kikyo… It was overwhelming refreshing to have someone who wouldn't run after someone else, to have someone look at your face and only see you. It was nice being put first. That's probably why I fell so quickly. He was putting me first. Inuyasha put me first in everything but his heart. I couldn't keep waiting. I've waited long enough for him, so I shouldn't regret trying to move on and move forward with Sesshomaru… Even though he's impossible to read or predict. I feel like he still has secrets. Sometimes I think he's just toying with me, but I'm for getting that he's a demon. He wasn't raised like I was. He has a different blood running through him. Feelings and compassion are foreign to him. He also approves of killing anyone who upsets him. I can't believe he was so proud of me for doing something like that. I mean, yes it was Kikyo and she was fucking up everything, but still. The look in his eyes… Like he couldn't wait for me kill someone else… I hope he doesn't think that killing will be a family thing… I want my Kazue to be sweet. I want him to learn right and wrong. I want him to love and be strong. I don't want him to be ok with killing… I need to take a nap… Why are we still watching Ninja Warrior?! I can't deal with this. Kagome reached for the remote. Sesshomaru eyed her. She changed the channel to USA Network. There was a special showing of 300 with limited commercial interruptions. Before Sesshomaru could protest, a man in chains ran up a rock, flew through the air in slow motion, and sliced through a heavy set man. The obese man tried to defend with a whip, but the sword cut through his arm. Blood splattered across the screen. Sesshomaru grinned. He made sure Kazue was facing the TV, but the infant was still trying to master fitting his fist into his mouth. Maybe he really does take after me. Kagome felt herself leaning toward Sesshomaru. She scooted closer to him, pretending to play with Kazue. Sesshomaru then wrapped an arm around her and pulled her in. Kagome blushed. He isn't faking it. This is real.
The village was actually starting to look better. Enju and Kaede had teamed up. Enju started repairing and creating warriors. Kaede directed them to jobs. The work was moving 5x faster. The infirmary and some of the homes were repaired. Warriors were carrying the injured into the rebuilt building. The walls weren't painted. And majority of the furniture was missing, but necessities were there. Inuyasha was placed in a room with an elder. Miroku and Koga were next door. Sango couldn't walk into their room. She was so frustrated. Who the fuck put them in the same fucking room?! I can't be there with both of them. I know Miroku will wake up if I'm in there… SHIT FUCK SHIT! This is too fucking much to deal with… I almost lost the both of them… I'm glad they're both alive, but this just might kill me… *takes deep breathe*… I'll just go help with the repairs. Sango left the lobby and walked outside. One of the shops were open. There was a sweet woman and her daughter cooking frantically. A small smile slid across Sango's face.
"You ladies need help?!" Sango ran over to help the teenager serve food to the villagers gathered there.
Koga's eye opened to the dim room. He was lying on a soft bed. To his left was Miroku. Miroku also started to walk up. Koga gave a sharp sigh. Miroku's eyes rolled in toward Koga. Their eyes met. A subtle tension started to form in the small room. Both males gave each other blank faces.
"I see you survived." Miroku blinked.
"Yeah." Koga blinked back. "Why is your arm purple?"
"Poisonous insects."
"Yeah,… sorry about that."
"Not your fault… Technically…" Miroku's irritation was starting to show. Who in their right mind put us in the same room? Just why?
"… Is Kohaku free?..." Koga picked up on his attitude.
"Yeah, thanks to you." Miroku almost rolled his eyes. "Your plan could have failed."
"But it didn't."
"You almost killed everyone in the process."
"I knew it would work and it did."
"You risked everyone's life."
"I only risked my own."
"How? You went straight for Sango."
"Naraku's power doesn't come from manipulation. He's the master of confusion and isolation. If he can keep you alone and away from your loved ones for long periods of time, then he can make you forget everything." Koga stared at the ceiling. "I wasn't away from her long enough. I always knew who she was to me." Miroku looked at Koga. So many emotions flowed through his body, but one though was constant. He was looking at a man who was in love with Sango. He went through hell and back to give her what she wanted… And succeeded…
The repairs were progressive. Sango was completely occupied with the small restaurant and multiple customers. The people were patient and polite. Before she knew, there was a mass of dishes left in the empty restaurant. The sun was throwing its last rays up past the horizon. The teen girl started gathering the dishes.
"Sango, you've done so much! Please, go ahead. We can handle the dishes!" The girl smiled sweetly.
"No way! There are over a hundred cups and plates!" Sango shook her head and started gathering the utensils. Besides, I need something to kill time. I'm not going anywhere until someone else needs me… Other than Koga and Miroku… Sango was scrubbing the front and back of various plates and small bowls. She was an automatic cleansing machine. She was frantically washing, but her mind was back at the hot springs. The steam from the hot water in the sink was pushing her deeper into the flashback. Her entire body was heating up, but only her hands were in the water. She could almost smell the aloe plants and low hanging vines growing around the large heated body of water. She could almost feel Koga's arms wrapping around her waist. A snap of cold air blasting through with the opening of the kitchen door broke the vision. The young girl barged in carrying the last of the stack of dishes.
"I got the last ones." She politely nudged Sango out of the way and started washing. Sango nodded and half smiled. She grabbed a towel and dried her hands. She removed the apron and gave it back to the owner. She thanks her with packaged food. Sango walked out of the front of the restaurant. The front of the infirmary was staring at her. She stared back. Fuck.
"Father."
"You are an embarrassment."
"Please. Send me back! I can fix this."
"You've failed me. You were defeated. Why should I give you a second chance?"
"Well… You were defeated by both their father and the youngest son. Fighting them directly was both of our mistakes… We need to play their emotions… I know of a demon specializing in such a field…"
"… Who?"
"Naraku."
Review…