AN: Should I apologize again for the lateness? Three chapters left everyone! :D Review lots to help me finish chapter 38!
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Of no time or place...
"But...but you're dead!" Kagome sputtered, unable to hide her shock. "You have to be dead. This can't be possible."
"How eloquent." Naraku muttered. "Are you sure you want to claim her as one of our line?"
Inuyasha snarled, his fangs beginning to show. "Shut the fuck up. Anyone would be honored to have Kagome!" He defended.
Naraku's eyes narrowed into slits, his arms slowly uncurling from around his chest. "Watch your tone, boy." His tone was so cold it could have given Sesshomaru the flu.
Midoriko tried to step around her mate, hardly surprised when he didn't budge. "Boys, now settle down." She soothed. "I won't be happy if you get blood on the flowers."
Kagome had a feeling she would like her great-whatever grandmother.
She squeezed Inuyasha's hand, silently trying to coax the snarl off his face. "I'm sorry for my rudeness." Kagome apologized. "It's just...it's been a very stressful day."
"We can see." Naraku pointed out cooly, studying Inuyasha's blood stains and burnt jeans.
Kagome tried to step in front of Inuyasha when his eyes flickered, dangerously close to red. Remember Kagura! Hurting Naraku would do no good. Kagura was really the only one who would suffer. And then Sesshomaru would make everyone suffer. You promised me no murdering rampages, Inuyasha.
No I didn't. Kagome could feel him struggle to stuff his boiling rage down though, away from where he might be tempted to act on it. I know he's your family, but Kagome... Inuyasha trailed off, his teeth grinding together.
If Naraku knew how close Inuyasha was to launching himself at him, he didn't show it. He kept the scowl on his face, not bothering with small talk or threats or boasts. He seemed content to glare at them until they left.
I'm sorry for this, Inuyasha. She really was. Any other time, she would have cheered him on while he tore Naraku's throat out. But while he was still connected to Kagura and they were trapped in the jewel, it just wasn't the time.
Inuyasha squeezed Kagome's hand a little desperately. I'll control myself. For now.
Midoriko smiled brightly, ignoring Naraku's less than thrilled attitude and Inuyasha's growling. "I have a feeling we have much to discuss. Would you care to sit down?" She gestured behind her, pillows lining the floor of the pavilion. She tugged on Naraku's sleeve. "Come along, dear."
Naraku grunted, reluctantly heading into the wooden structure. Midoriko followed him closely, sending another reassuring smile over her shoulder.
Inuyasha rumbled in his throat. Mate, I don't like this...
I know, I'm not thrilled either. Don't tell me you're not curious though. Kagome pointed out. She knew she wanted to meet her family. Both her parents had been only children, so she had never grown up with aunts or uncles or cousins. She couldn't help wanting to learn about her ancestors...even if the one had murdered her mate's parents. Besides, I think we'll be ok. They seem to know about us somehow.
Feh, and that's anything good?
Let's just go. We have to figure out how to get out of here anyway, right?
...fine. But don't even think about leaving my side.
She had no problem with that.
Lanterns hung from the windows, red columns holding the roof up. Colorful, comfortable pillows that looked out of place of the Japanese setting littered the ground, surrounding a table set low in the center of the pavilion. Midoriko and Naraku settled close to each other, Midoriko expectant while Naraku was just suspicious.
Naraku barely waited for them to sit across from them, Kagome's hand still firmly tangled in Inuyasha's. "What are you doing here?" He barked out.
Well, there shot her dreams of a happy family reunion...
Midoriko only rolled her eyes. "Forgive my mate, you're the first visitors we've ever had." She patted his hand, trying to ease the tension running tight in his muscles. "He's a little on edge about receiving a guest of Inu no Taisho's line."
Kagome elbowed Inuyasha when he would have opened his mouth. Not that he didn't deserve to yell all the abuse he wanted to do at his parents murderer, but not now. "We understand." She said quickly, striving for politeness. "But I'm afraid we don't understand much else."
Midoriko nodded, "Of course. I can see how this is confusing to both of you. So I'll start with your first observation." She smiled slightly. "You're right, I am dead. Technically."
Naraku's red eyes flickered to black, claws digging into the tabletop.
Midoriko casually took his hand in hers, bringing it to rest on her lap out of sight. "I died to help fuel Sango's transformation. After my labor." The smile faded from her lips, and she leaned forward, eyes set on Kagome. "Tell me. Has there been any news about Rin?"
Kagome and Inuyasha exchanged a glance. He shrugged, and it wasn't like she had ever heard that name either. "I'm sorry, I don't know who that is."
"Oh." Midoriko leaned back, "I had hoped Kagura might have said something...but nevermind then." The disappointment carved on her face wiped itself away, a dimmer smile taking its place. "Yes, I did die. But there was too much unfinished business for me to leave. The jewel provided an anchor to my soul, and Naraku gave me flesh."
Does that sound gross to you too?
This entire thing is fuckin' unnatural Inuyasha pointed out grimly. He was tight and rigid next to her, not looking happy.
Midoriko flushed a bit under their confusion. "Naraku's blood gives me form." She explained further.
Kagome couldn't help the gasp that slipped out. That's why Kagura had so many wounds. It wasn't revenge, it was so Naraku could be with his real mate.
It was strange and twisted and unfair to Kagura...but sort of nice.
"Get the rainbows and sunshine out of your eyes." Naraku snapped, guessing the direction of her thoughts. "Kagura wouldn't injure if I wasn't melded to her. I have to insult Sesshomaru somehow."
Ok, not so nice then. "So you really have been eavesdropping on them like they've suspected." Kagome concluded.
Naraku shrugged, shameless. "It's the only way to get news of the outside world, granddaughter." His red gaze touched on her palm. "However, I could have died happy never knowing my blood was mated to Inu no Taisho's line." He said grimly.
That finally earned Naraku a sharp glance from his mate while Kagome practically hugged Inuyasha's arm to her chest, praying he would keep his cool. "As you have learned well, we can't help the mates we've been gifted with." Midoriko pointed out, for the both of them. "You can only make the best of it."
Naraku grunted, choosing not to comment.
Kagome stared at Midoriko, working over something in her head. "That strange mark on Kagura, the M...that was you, wasn't it?" She asked. "You wanted to let us know you were here."
"It was a long shot, but I was hoping someone would figure it out." Midoriko admitted. "I told no one about the portal I built into the jewel, but once I learned of you, I hoped you would come." She looked at Inuyasha, clearing her throat. "It was a...pleasant surprise you brought your mate as well."
"That's all you can say to me?" Inuyasha growled, finally speaking up. "It's a 'pleasant surprise'? Let me tell you something, it wasn't 'pleasant' being trapped into a mirror for 500 years and entrusted to the bitch who made a fool out of all of us."
Naraku flashed his fangs while Midoriko looked down at the table. "I don't care who you are, you will not speak to my mate that way, or I'll-"
"No Naraku, he's right." Midoriko interrupted. She looked back up so she could reposition her hands in her lap, bowing slightly. "Lord Inuyasha, I apologize for my actions. I thought I could trust Kikyo, and I didn't find out until it was too late that I couldn't. When it came to the protection of the jewel and Nar-...and the treasury, I can admit I reacted harshly. I humbly request your forgiveness, for the sake of our families."
Kagome held Inuyasha's hand tighter, lending him her strength. She hardly had any time to consider belonging to the same line as Midoriko and Naraku. She wasn't sure if she should be proud or ashamed. But she wouldn't fault Inuyasha in anyway he chose to react. He very well could throw Midoriko's apology back in her face.
But a small, silent part of her hoped he would take it.
Midoriko was part of her family. Whatever that meant.
"...feh." Inuyasha finally huffed. "Kikyo had me fooled too."
A small smile spread on Kagome's face. So not quite an apology. But maybe understanding was better anyway.
Just for you, mate. Inuyasha squeezed her hand.
"Why were you hoping I would come?" Kagome asked, bringing the conversation back to focus.
"To meet you, my dear." Midoriko exclaimed. "Naraku and I wanted to meet our great, great, great," Midoriko waved her hand to indicate the rest of the 'great's' "-granddaughter. We weren't able to raise our own daughter. It's something we've both regretted."
Naraku's expression didn't change, not looking overly concerned.
Does she seriously love this guy? Kagome wondered. He hasn't stopped glaring at us once.
Hell, I am not getting into that crap. Do I look like Dr. Till? Inuyasha demanded.
You mean Dr. Phil. For a demon who had only been exposed to TV for only a few weeks, Inuyasha had become strangely addicted to daytime television. Kagome bit her lip at Inuyasha's outrage, trying to keep her focus. I doubt that's the only reason Midoriko wanted me here.
That perked Inuyasha's interest, quieting some of the rage rolling in his stomach. Inner demon throwing her opinion in?
Sort of. It's just a strong gut feeling. Kagome wasn't sure how to explain it. Maybe gramps cynicism was just rubbing off on her.
Well, let me know when she's got something to say. I wanna hear her roar and then make her purr. Inuyasha rested their joined hands on her thigh, stroking her wrist with his thumb.
Kagome's cheeks heated, resisting the urge to squirm. Not. The. Time.
Feh.
Kagome cleared her throat, struggling to keep her composure and remember her manners. "I am very happy to meet you..." she trailed off, not sure if it was appropriate to call her Midoriko or her great-great-great whatever grandmother, "But I'm afraid we don't have time for a visit. Kikyo is still alive and wants the jewel. We came to the treasury to stop her, but I was accidentally drawn into the jewel. She's still here, battling our friends while she holds my brother hostage." The worry she had pushed aside roared back to life. Souta had looked so scared in Kikyo's grasp. Her mate was safe, but she couldn't say the same for her brother.
We will. We'll make it in time, I promise Inuyasha whispered, reassuring her.
A chill sunk down her spine when Naraku suddenly became very still, his attention focused and cold. "What are her intentions?"
Kagome shrugged, shifting a little closer to Inuyasha. She had to remember this man wasn't her sweet, slightly confused, good natured grandfather, no matter their relation. This man had tried to overthrow heaven, damning all costs. "To steal the jewel. We're not really sure why. Maybe to free you?"
Naraku's eyes went black, his hair ruffling away from his body. His claws dug into the tabletop again, jaw clenched tight. "That treacherous woman. Do not let her free me. The jewel must not be destroyed."
Inuyasha shoved Kagome behind him, even as shock made his eyebrows raise. "You'd rather be imprisoned forever then continue your revolution?"
"Fool. If I am freed, and the jewel is gone, what do you think will happen to Midoriko?" Naraku seethed. "She'll be gone, no amount of my blood spilled to tie her to me." He looked at his mate, the rage softening enough to relax his fingers. "That will not happen."
Midoriko placed a soothing hand on Naraku's shoulder. "Dear, try to calm down. I'm not going anywhere. I'm here, with you."
Inuyasha shook his head, unconvinced. "You're telling me Kikyo's not your partner? That this hasn't been both of your plans for centuries? That you've totally given up on killing my brother, God, and anyone else who gets in your way?"
Naraku huffed. "I'm not saying I haven't given up on any of my plans. God has a lot to speak for after letting Midoriko die." He hissed. "I'm just determined to find another way to release myself from the jewel, without letting Midoriko go."
Midoriko was calm and serene next to him. Like she had heard this argument a thousand times, determined to never let him know the answer to his question.
Leaning forward, Naraku bared his teeth, not caring when Inuyasha showed his in return. "Kikyo is not to succeed. Swear to me, granddaughter. You will not let that she-devil get her hands on the jewel. You have my sword now, it's up to you."
"Oh stop, Naraku. I have enough people duty bound to kill Kikyo." Midoriko cheeks flushed, and her eyes rested on the table, ashamed to gaze anywhere else. "We don't need to add our granddaughter to that list."
Kagome licked her lips nervously, still not feeling let off the hook. "I have my own reasons to stop Kikyo." she said carefully. Because it wasn't like she could promise the safety of the jewel either.
As long as Naraku lived, Kagura would be in danger. Naraku had murdered Inuyasha's parents before he was old enough to remember them. She didn't know how she felt about him being a part of her family, but she couldn't deny that.
Naraku didn't tear his gaze from her, his eyes black and furious. "Vow it. Before I swear that if the jewel ever ceases to exist, I will have no mercy. Not even for one of my line."
"Naraku!" Midoriko finally snapped. "You're losing control of your temper. I do not like it when you lose your temper." She reminded him. "Go cool down before you say something you'll regret."
For one terrible moment, Naraku looked like he was going to refuse. Then he huffed, pushing himself up from the table.
Nice to see even Naraku whipped by his mate. Inuyasha mused. I don't feel as lame about you owning my balls.
Kagome shot a glance at him while Naraku trudged out of the pavilion, fists clenched tight at his side. And don't you forget it.
"I'm sorry for your grandfather, Kagome." Midoriko apologized, turning her attention back to them once Naraku was off in his mansion. "But in his defense, he has made quite an amount of progress in the 500 years we've been together."
"So why did you really want me here?" Kagome asked bluntly, hating to waste anymore time while her brother was in danger.
Midoriko looked down at her hands, "You were right, Kagome. I had a little more in mind then just making small talk." When she looked up, the doting grandparent was gone, replaced by the guardian priestess she remembered from Sango's memories. "I need your help. If Kagura is to be believed, you can see the mate ties-"
"Mate ties?" Kagome interrupted, not following. "You didn't want us here because of Sango?"
Midoriko winced, some of her pride fading to guilt. "Yes, Sango was someone else I wanted to discuss with you. But I need to know first. Were you telling Kagura the truth about the ribbons you've seen on occasion?"
Kagome didn't look at Inuyasha, knowing they both shared the same confusion. "Yes. Once in Sango's memory and another time when Naraku was cutting Kagura. I thought they were some sort of power signature, but Sango said otherwise."
Midoriko nodded once. "Sango was right. Those aren't power signatures Kagome, they're the mate ties. You can actually see them." She leaned forward, her gaze unblinking. "And I think you're the only person who can break them."
...Kagome was really starting to hate revelations. And being special. "What?"
"You're of three beings, Kagome. Demon, human and miko. With your priestess powers, your ability to wield Naraku's sword; one of demons only artifacts of heaven, and your humanity, not only can you see the ties that bind mates together, you can sever them." Midoriko explained. "You're incredibly rare, Kagome. The few demons and mikos who had children together were never lucky enough to be blessed with offspring in the craft. I had hoped with Rin..." She trailed off again, shaking her head. "But there wasn't time to explain it to her. And it wasn't like anyone knew Naraku was her father."
Kagome wasn't prepared to touch this Rin topic until her head stopped spinning from the first whirlwind. "But I've only seen them twice. It sounds more like a coincidence."
Midoriko was shaking her head even before Kagome had finished speaking. "It's just another skill to master. You're seeing things that exist on another level of the universe. You just have to practice a bit."
Midoriko glanced over their shoulders, making sure Naraku hadn't returned. "You've seen my power signature as tattered ribbons, because Naraku mated another woman instead of me. I need you to correct that."
Kagome jerked, her eyes going wide. Sesshomaru was right. I really can free Kagura.
Feh, don't let the bastard hear you say that. He'll gloat about it to our own great, great, great, great grandkids. Despite his flippant words, Inuyasha drew Kagome's hand closer to him. "So what, Kag slices an invisible line and Kagura's free?"
"Well, Naraku has to be linked to Kagura at the time." Midoriko warned. "But yes, it is that simple."
"But once I free Kagura, Sesshomaru will have no reason to allow Naraku to live, and the jewel will be gone and...you'll disappear." Kagome pointed out, her amazement deflating a bit. She had only just met her grandmother. Was this the only time they would have together?
Midoriko smiled slightly. "I'm weary, Kagome. Naraku won't admit it, but he is too. I should have moved on 500 years ago, but I've been tied here. It's time for us both to go. And I..." She drew in a breath, her hands clutching at the side of the table. "I hate that he's bound to that woman. That should be me. If we could have just met a little sooner-" She stopped herself, laughing bitterly. "This jealousy has been eating me alive. And then I feel guilty for wanting him so badly because he's my enemy, a murderer, but then he's also my mate, so he should have my absolute loyalty. I am tired of this existence, Kagome." Midoriko shook her head. "I want Naraku completely to myself, free of any duty, or guilt, or former ties. Even if we have to travel into the next realm to accomplish that."
Strangely enough, Kagome understood. "Once everything is over with Kikyo and Inuyasha's trial...I'll do my best." She promised.
Midoriko leaned back, looking relieved. "Thank you, granddaughter. Thank you."
"But what about Sango?" Inuyasha demanded. "You've screwed her over enough already. What happens to her once we're done carrying out your dirty work?"
Midoriko flinched. "You're right. I deserve that. I wasn't strong enough to handle Naraku or Kikyo, so I passed it on to Sango instead. I didn't want to be the one to decide if Naraku should die, or if Kikyo was really telling the truth. Sango was the most capable warrior I ever met. I knew she could accomplish what I failed to."
Kagome studied her for a moment, "So there was no grand vision like you told Sango? You figured out on your own they needed to be stopped?"
Midoriko sighed. "No, my deathbed confession wasn't completely...truthful. It took some time for common sense to clear my clouded eyes. Among other things."
She straightened the long sleeves of her kimono nervously, resting the fabric over her hands just-so. "Naraku was listening in to Kagura's theory, and of course, she's right about Sango." She smiled slightly. "She was always too clever for her own good. Lord Sesshomaru will be happy to finally claim her and force her to settle down."
Kagome just barely bit back her laughter, ignoring Inuyasha when he coughed into his arm. Kagura settle down? Hah. "So she'll return to her normal body once Kikyo and Naraku are both dead?"
"Yes. I locked her away in a place removed from time, so she'll be fine. Her human body hasn't aged 500 years. I didn't want to punish the girl, afterall." She raised a brow at Inuyasha's shocked look. "You never wondered why you didn't die of hunger or thirst? You were sealed away from time and space. I couldn't have you dying if I wanted you imprisoned."
"But then what about her mate?" Kagome asked, redirecting the conversation. "Will the ties just disappear once she's human again?"
"...Sango has a mate?" Midoriko repeated, her turn to be shocked. "I never accounted for that. I never even expected she might get one. I wonder why Naraku didn't say anything about that. Hmmm. That could change some things, I suppose..."
Kagome didn't groan or hit her head against the table like she wanted to. Something else to figure out then. Other families had reunions with potato casserole and awkward small talk. Why did all of her reunions include incredible new powers, conversations with a ghost and ridiculous questions no one could answer right away? Her head just about spun, feeling a bit light and hollow from shock. I hate being special.
You and me both. Next time, we're staying home with the maple syrup. Inuyasha grumbled back.
You won't get an argument out of me.
"Anything else you want to share, Midoriko?" Inuyasha prompted. "We were in the middle of something before we got sucked down here. You know, saving Kagome's brother, putting a stop to Kikyo, clearing my name. That sort of thing."
"Oh, of course, forgive me. Please, don't let me hinder you. You have quite the adventure to finish." Midoriko quickly stood up, Inuyasha and Kagome following. "Come along to the grass, it's painful to transport out through the pavillion."
"I want to thank you both for coming, even if it was by accident." Midoriko modestly clasped her hands together. "It's probably best if you leave before Naraku comes back. He gets sentimental about goodbyes."
Inuyasha and Kagome exchanged a glance, but didn't say a word.
She reached out to cup Kagome's cheek delicately. "I'm so grateful I had the chance to meet you. I promise you, Naraku was as well." She quickly reassured. "He has quite the soft side when you get the chance to know him."
"I'm sure." Kagome said for lack of anything else to say. It would be awkward to argue with her grandmother how evil her grandfather potentially was. Especially since she probably wouldn't get the chance to learn his soft side. "Would you mind telling us how to leave?"
"Just will yourself out." She said serenely. "You'll find yourself back in the jewel room."
Just like when she left Sango's memories. Why didn't I think of that? Kagome hoped Inuyasha picked up on the sarcasm.
Because it seems way too easy. He assured. We had other things on our minds.
"Well, goodbye." She felt awkward, not sure what to do with her arms or how to school her face. Should she hug her? Shake her hand? Bow? She wasn't really sure what the protocol was for greeting your dead great, great, great, great something grandmother.
Midoriko bowed slightly. "I pray you live well and prosper. Rest assured granddaughter, we will watch over you."
Kagome wasn't sure she would want the kind of watching Naraku might provide, but she'd take what she could get.
"Wait." Naraku ordered, hardly having to raise his voice before Kagome froze. He walked down from his manor, hands tucked away in his sleeves and his long hair streaming away from his face. He seemed to have gotten control of himself, his expression blank and vaguely interested.
He stopped just in front of Kagome, studying her without a word, ignoring Inuyasha's growls. She nodded slightly at her mate, trying to reassure him. She didn't feel like Naraku meant any harm, he just seemed...curious. His red eyes roved over her face, her body, her clothes without commenting on what he was looking for.
Without warning, he suddenly reached forward and cupped her cheek, his hand cool against her skin. Kagome forced herself to stay still when she wanted to jump back, but couldn't keep her power from rising up to meet Naraku's hand.
She couldn't bring herself to apologize either when Naraku finally pulled his hand away, examining the blisters that bloomed across his skin. He didn't show pain, even though several parts were cracked and bleeding. "Hmm. Draw your dagger."
When had it become her dagger? Afraid to break the fragile connection between them, Kagome stayed silent, grasping the handle instead. Despite how the blade twisted down into a point, it slid easily out of the sheathe. The gunmetal shone even under the light of the fake sky, the jewels glinting.
"Focus on it now." He ordered, his attention completely set on her. "Make it an extension of your hand."
Still not sure what was going on, but more curious than afraid, Kagome stared down at the dagger. She'd never even really held a real weapon before. The only way to really picture it as a part of her was if her power was a part of it-
Her power shot into the steel, the gems embedded in the sword suddenly bright and glittering. A purple glow surrounded the sword, the handle practically throbbing in her hand.
Naraku nodded once, stepping back. "You are acceptable, granddaughter. My dagger is yours now. If you were to kill me, I would die with honor."
Kagome tried not to let her mouth drop open, not sure how to respond to that. She was uncomfortably aware she was staring, the silence starting to become awkward.
That's actually a pretty high compliment, especially from a demon like Naraku. Inuyasha tried to explain.
...is he saying he wants me to kill him? Because as bad as he was, Kagome really didn't want to. She felt like she had just passed some sort of test. She hated to ruin a potential relationship with her great, great, great, great something grandfather by having to murder him.
Inuyasha bared his teeth, growling instead of smiling. I'll take care of it for you. What else are mates for?
"Thank you." Kagome finally said, sliding the sword back into place. The glow died, and the glitter from the jewels faded. "I don't know if I'm interested in being the one to kill you though." Especially since Inuyasha was so eager to volunteer.
Naraku only sighed. "I would prefer you over Inu no Taisho's line. Or the huntress."
Midoriko for her part just beamed at the both of them. Like it was a heartwarming moment of bonding between grandfather and granddaughter, instead of Naraku picking out his own assassin to prevent being killed by one of his enemies.
You have a strange family
Kagome only looked at her mate. Sesshomaru. Kagura.
...you have a point.
Midoriko winked at Kagome as if she had just proved her point of Naraku's softness. "You two better leave. Time gets a little warped outside of the jewel since we're removed from it, you don't want to waste too much time here with us."
Kagome nodded again, "Well, thank you again. Thank you for the dagger and the um...recommendation." She told Naraku.
"Don't forget my warning, granddaughter." Naraku glanced at Midoriko, the look more possessive than if he had hung a collar around her neck with his name on it. "Midoriko is not to be threatened. I would kill even you."
"You won't get the chance." Inuyasha promised, his claws digging into his palm hard enough to draw blood.
It was beyond time to go. Inuyasha wouldn't last much longer and even with the glowing recommendation, she didn't trust her grandfather's hospitality. Really, it seemed like he just wanted to deny Inuyasha and Sesshomaru their revenge, and she couldn't promise him that. And outside the jewel, she couldn't leave Souta with Kikyo any longer, and Sango and Miroku might need their help. Now, it's time to finish this.
Bring it on, mate.
Kagome closed her eyes, imagining herself and Inuyasha lifting up out of the jewel and back into the treasury room.
With a hard jolt, she found herself back on her feet, glass crunching under her shoes as she struggled to keep her balance, ready for a fight.
Only to find herself in a roomful of soul collectors.
Sango knew it was a bad idea. As soon as she saw the wounded soul collector slitter out of Kikyo's ruined bag, she should have called for Kirara to take care of it.
Instead she tucked the jewel away in her belt. She drew her sword and sliced. And sliced. And sliced.
And didn't stop even as the room filled with their spawn, their long bodies lazily circling around her, waiting for her to tire herself out. They teasingly brushed her skin, unconcerned when she spun around to chop them in half.
It was stupid and foolish and she couldn't stop herself. She wanted to rage. To break something. To hurt something. To inflict what she was feeling.
The soul collectors were just an easy target.
Especially since Miroku was gone. Along with the new set of prayer beads that he'd probably intended for her.
A scream ripped out of her throat, her blade striking that much harder. Because she wouldn't whimper, she wouldn't cry. Not even for Miroku.
But she would scream until her throat was hoarse and raw and unable to say what she really wanted to say.
Whatever the hell that was. Pleads to come back? Curses to damn his name? She honestly didn't know. But she would have plenty of time to figure it out while hunting them down.
Because he wasn't getting away that easy, no matter what her decision turned out to be.
Inuyasha and Kagome appeared out of nowhere with a pop, wide eyed and startled. "Sango?" Kagome gasped, her power frying a nearby collector. "Inuyasha, get Kirara."
Shame nearly kept her silent, but she knew they had to know. "Kikyo escaped and took Miroku with her."
Sango finally forced herself to sheathe her sword when Kagome's power drew whirls around her skin, stepping back to allow her to finish them off. "My brother! Where's Souta?"
"Out in the hall. He's safe." Inuyasha called back, letting Kirara bound in ahead of them.
"Hi Inuyasha! You look so cool!" Kagome relaxed, visibly relieved when she heard her brother's voice.
Between Kagome and Kirara, the soul collectors were extinguished within minutes, leaving Sango twitchy, annoyed at her weakness. So stupid. Granted, she hadn't been strong enough to move until Kikyo and Miroku had been gone for well over two hours, but she should have chased after them right away.
Instead, she took her anger out on soul collectors.
Not that it mattered how quickly she left to track them. As soon as Kikyo left with Miroku, she lost all scent of them. It was like they stepped out of the jewel room and disappeared.
"Souta!" Kagome cried, practically falling on her brother when Inuyasha led him into the room, Kirara at their heels. "Are you alright?"
The boy nodded, holding out his bandaged arm. "That man saved me. I feel fine now."
Kagome shivered, hugging her brother tighter. "Sango, what happened?"
"There's no time to explain. We're almost out of time for Inuyasha's trial. It's nearly dawn." Sango reminded tensely. "What took you two so long?" A little backup a little earlier would have been appreciated. Maybe things would have ended differently...
"Trial? Is Inuyasha in trouble?" Souta asked, clearly confused. "What happened to Dr. Saito and that man?"
"I'll tell you about it later Souta, I promise." Kagome lifted her brother onto Kirara's back. "Let's go."
"Warp speed, Inuyasha." Sango commanded. "Watch the booby traps."
She just barely waited for Kagome to settle on Inuyasha's back before she was off, avoiding Kagura's traps with ease now that she knew where they were. Her eyes scanned the hallway as she ran, looking for some sign Miroku could have left behind, determined to find something.
But there was nothing.
The trapdoor in the ceiling nearly shot off its hinges when Sango burst through it, leaving a permanent dent on the floor. The others would be fine. Kagome and Inuyasha could go to the trial and Sango could start her hunt immediately. There was no time to waste, especially after her pity party with the soul collectors. She'd collect Kirara, grab her boomerang, and whatever other weapon she could find, and leave the three of them to the car...
Sango skidded to a stop, leaving furrows in the ground outside the bakery with her feet. The car.
Kikyo's car was still parked in front, the tires still slashed and the window still shattered from Sango's earlier wreckage.
But Sesshomaru's vehicle was even worse. The tires were in shreds, the hood popped open to show the missing engine and the driver nowhere to be found. She didn't smell blood in the air, but that never counted for much when it came to Kikyo.
Her fault. Again.
Kagome's gasp behind her was heartbreaking. "Inuyasha, it's past four now. The car..."
"I can carry you and your brother." But Inuyasha didn't sound very confident about it. He was already weak, and he would need all his strength for the trial. He probably could cart his mate and her brother over a two hour journey, but it would cost him.
The jewel was heavy on her hip, reminding her of her duty. And how miserably she failed. At least she had the chance to make up for something now. "Kagome, get on Kirara with Souta. I'll run with Inuyasha."
Inuyasha shot a sharp glance at her. "You're not going after your mate?"
Sango forced herself to swallow the bitterness down. He wasn't her mate any longer. But why get into it now? "He'll still be in need of rescuing after the trial. Let's go, there's no time."
Inuyasha shrugged, not understanding. She wouldn't expect him too. Nothing would have kept him from Kagome. He would have left Sango gleefully behind if the situation had been reversed.
Enough. She couldn't focus on this. Just her duty.
It was all she had left.
AN: Chapter 38 has been started, but it's dragging a bit in the middle. Help me out by reviewing lots!
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