- Drabble Collection: The Daedalus Design -

XLIV.

Musk

"Inuyasha, son of the Inu no Taisho, son of Izayoi, failed guardian of Kikyou, failed seeker after the shikon no tama, failed lover of the Second Priestess...Yes, I know you. Contend with this my servant, hanyou; you are no longer worthy to contend with me."

A musky odor rolls from the body of the mounted man; it is the odor of death and fields left fallow, the odor of spilled liquor and witch oil, marsh fire and madness. Inuyasha covers his nose with his left sleeve, and holds Tetsusaiga steady in his right hand.

Vainly, he wishes for the robe of the Fire Rat; for something to protect Kagome besides his own faltering strength.