A new update? So soon? Le gasp
Yes I am back with an update, and we are introduced to shippo. So I edited it and gave Shippo a little crush on Kaede which I thought would be cute as hell. Given it was a trend in the original series. Shippo falling for a cute human girl and trying to impress her. Unfortunately I lost my internet connection briefly so I had to rewrite half of this during editing.
However, I will ask a favour in reviews, some people have been pestering me about Kagome's upcoming appearance. This is purely an INUKIK fanfiction, InuyashaxKikyo, though Kagome is going to be returning this is about InuYasha and Kikyo's love story. If you want to read InuKag fanworks please go to other stories, please stop harassing me over this.
"Woah, Kikyo did you make this? This tastes amazing" InuYasha beamed, he'd never tasted anything like it, there were so many flavours in here, unlike anything he had ever tasted before. Nothing like any of the ingredients from this world, he knew Kikyo was a skilled cook due to her medicinal skills, but even her food was beyond amazing. It was so long since he had been able to enjoy a decent meal like this. He couldn't help but wonder had her parents taught her these skills or were she self-taught, given her proficiency as a priestess.
Kikyo smiled bashfully, pouring herself another cup of tea from the flask, ever since InuYasha had visited her world she had come to enjoy preparing meals to his liking. She had begun to make rice balls and other snacks too, adding medicine to it to help with his injuries and to refresh his stamina and even to help with fatigue or stress. She was used to cooking for herself and Kaede, but with someone else added to the mix, it made things fun. She'd made a picnic of foods to bring to the feudal era for them to eat, it had become habitual for her to cook while here, so she decided to make some for them all. They needed to retain their strength while travelling and ignoring meals was not healthy, they had been travelling for some time and she needed to be aware of keeping up her nutrients. But she took into consideration that InuYasha's tongue would be different from theirs "The curry isn't too spicy, is it? I know being half-dog your tastes buds will be sensitive?" she asked in concern. She'd used sweet curry instead of spicy to make it more tolerable, adding chicken and vegetables to the mixture.
"Kikyo Onee-san's cooking is the best" Kaede agreed enthusiastically. Their late mother had taught Kikyo to cook from a young age due to her curiosity on the matter, soon Kikyo became an even more skilled cook than their late mother. After their parents perished when Kikyo was but a child and herself, Kikyo had taken upon being the homemaker which allowed her to learn to cook to provide for them both. Over the years Kikyo's cooking skills became unparalleled. However, their picnic sight was rather creepy, to say the least, she peered around curiously, they had found themselves on the edge of a battlefield covered in graves and corpses.
Kikyo had been somewhat stunned to witness such a thing in person, to have discovered open graves of fallen soldiers as if they were walking through a local reserve in their hometown. Such things were common in these times, compared to the modern-day life they were so adapted to. But she showed her respects and asked them to allow them peace to eat their meal, praying for the lost souls whom had lost their lives in a violent battle in which this place became their final resting place. So here they sat, eating their food with the company of slain samurai. Abruptly, Kikyo stiffened, getting to her feet and gripping her bow tightly, it seemed in this world something was always around the corner. Trouble looming in the horizon, forever casting a shadow over their heads. She sensed an oncoming demonic presence and though weak she knew better than to take it lightly, in such a short time she had battled a centipede demon, a hair ogre, a demonic mask and a demon toad. She knew to be prepared for anything, no matter how strange the demon appeared. They had most likely sniffed out the jewel shards which she held around her neck, hoping to gather them for themselves.
Kaede peered around curiously, something strange was going on "How come it's so dark, wasn't it lunchtime?" she asked suspiciously. It had been the middle of the afternoon, the sun had been bright, there were white clouds and blue skies. But now ominous darkness surrounded them and it didn't seem normal. She sensed something dangerous but its power was weaker than the last demons they had encountered, so she wasn't as cautious as before.
"A.. A kitsune?" Myoga responded shakily, they were tricksters of the demon world, transforming to frighten and mislead humans by their ability to change their form. Some were even worshipped on a level of gods by humans. But some used their power to frighten humans thus they had a torn following by humans as fearsome creatures or simply mischievous pranksters. Though strong they were weaker compared to more powerful demons with brute strength. InuYasha blinked, a kitsune? A transforming fox? But what did it want with them? He'd encountered all sorts of demons growing up, some were harmless others were dangerous. However, Kitsune had never bothered him much, they were fluffy, intelligent and sometimes problematic but they had never given him much trouble. But here was one trying to get cocky with them, probably here to steal their food, little devil.
"Hand over the Shikon Jewel, I know you have it" the voice demanded
Kikyo tightened her grasp on her weapon, aiming her arrow at the glowing swirl appearing before them. She was prepared to give it a warning to take heed and never bother them again. She had seen the cruelty and despicable nature demons were capable of in their desire to collect the jewel shards. The demon toad who attempted to devour women after encasing them in sacs, the demon mask she had attempted to seal which used humans as a food source to form a body. Not all demons were as good-natured as InuYasha, but for all good demons, there were mostly bad. Suddenly, a giant pink ball appeared before them, giant white eyes and a greenish smoke surrounding it, for all it had spoken in an intimidating manner, the real face of the demon was, very underwhelming.
InuYasha stared in awe, a look of confusion and disbelief on his face, wondering if he had fallen asleep or if he was just seeing things. Was this creature truly under the consideration that they thought they would be scared of this? If he wasn't in such a state of shock he would have been on the ground rolling with laughter at such an attempt. Was this some form of a joke? Was he dreaming? Perhaps in a state of boredom his brain had created this to amuse himself. This creature was a Kitsune? This was the power of a transforming fox? He would have expected something flashier from a transforming demon fox. Kikyo blinked, was she dreaming? She didn't know whether to laugh in amusement or pinch herself to see if she was dreaming. This creature couldn't be a demon, for all she knew they could be misshapen and hideous, this creature appeared cartoonish. The demonic aura that she sensed belonged to… this misshapen creature? The creature approached, floating towards them slowly, it had gotten their attention and now it would gather what it had come for. They would hand over the Shikon shards without a fight and he would be on his way, leaving them in peace. It nipped InuYasha's ear lightly with its needlelike but harmless teeth, hopefully, this would teach them a lesson of what he was capable of. Inuyasha winced, it stung but it wasn't painful, though he didn't appreciate someone nipping at his ears. They were rather sensitive and he didn't want bite marks on them. If anything he felt like he was babysitting a blob that had gotten bored and was using him for entertainment.
"What the heck is that thing? A blob?" Kaede scoffed in amusement, all the books she had read on demons, all the training she had endured. All the stories she had heard, after facing the demon frog and the noh mask, this creature just seemed pathetic. She wanted to burst into laughter at how ridiculous it looked. She tried to keep a serious expression but she was fighting hard against the urge to laugh and mock the creature for attempting to scare them. Kikyo lowered her arrow, this thing wasn't dangerous to them but it indeed looked strange. Its demonic power was weaker than any demon she had ever met, like a wisp of smoke rather than the overpowering energy she was used to. This creature was harmless if not annoying, she wouldn't waste her arrows on a mere troublemaker since it meant them no harm. But why was it pestering them so? If it was hungry then she could offer it some snacks to appease it.
InuYasha sighed heavily, being an older and stronger demon he was more than used to smaller lesser demons causing trouble in hopes of being approved. There was a food chain in the demon world and this demon was on the lower ranks. He wasn't in the mood for games or troublemakers, his lunch had been interrupted by a mischievous fox lacking any form of power? It seemed trouble loved to follow them around these days, and this little creature was determined to throw a tantrum. He huffed, swatting the creature hard across its round face, pushing it aside. There was another green swirl of smoke that clouded the air, causing them to approach curiously.
Kikyo blinked curiously, he appeared to be simply a cub, rather than a fully grown Kitsune. He had a round cherubic face, wide green eyes and a small snout, he didn't look old enough to leave the nest, he would still be in his training years given his weakened power. So why would such a low-level demon attempt to attack them when it was outnumbered and overpowered? Surely most demons would have the common sense not to attempt such a foolish action. Kaede approached suspiciously, placing her hands on her hips as she stared him down "Huh. He's just a brat" she responded bluntly. She had thought for all the demons cockiness that it would have some flash to at least hold up its statement. But it seems it was just a smaller demon looking for approval, why couldn't it just go bother someone else? They had finally gotten some peace during their travels but this creature was intent on hounding them. Maybe they should use protective wards to keep people out.
"What did you slap me for you big jerk?" he snapped bitterly. He didn't have to be so rough with him, was he always this mean to lower demons? How dare he show such disrespect to a fox demon. Why didn't he show fear? Why wasn't he running away screaming? He had put all of his energy into that transformation to assure they would be afraid. Yet all they did was stare at him and throw mockery in his face, how dare they patronize him.
InuYasha approached the cub, grabbing him by the hem of his collar and pulled him upwards to meet his gaze "He's kind of a midget for a fox, maybe he's a racoon instead?" he suggested. He had expected a Kitsune to be bigger, longer tail, sharper snout and harbouring a lot more power. Either he was a slow learner or he was just lazy, but his powers were pathetically weak. Why would a demon, like himself confront a stronger demon despite knowing he would be defeated easily? It was dangerous and could get him hurt if he attacked a larger demon.
"I'm a fox you hear me?!" The cub yelled, he demanded respect. He may not have been as big as other demons but he still had power, he simply needed to train more and hone in his abilities. He hated their judgmental stares, knowing they were making fun of him behind his back. But he would prove himself and take revenge on his father.
Kikyo hummed, he was such a small little demon, about the same size as a human toddler. She had never thought demons could be so small in stature, from the giant beasts she had encountered. She had seen creatures of great ugliness, disfigurement and terrifying appearance, but the adorable nature of this demon was rather off-putting, he harboured such a sweet face. Though causing mischief was in the foxes nature he appeared otherwise harmless and she would not harm a creature for simply playing a prank. However, he should be more careful with whom he picked his fights in the future. Not all civilians or demons would show a pest such kindness. She softened, sighing heavily, she wouldn't harm him but he needed to be scolded, encouraging bad behaviour was not appropriate. "We were in the middle of our meal, if you are hungry I have food to spare" she offered politely.
InuYasha peered at Kikyo, he knew she was no weakling but she was no pushover either. Though she loved her sister she knew when to be stern with Kaede so she didn't act spoiled or make bad choices that would bring a negative outcome. She was stern, loving and fair, balancing kindness with morality, could they trust this kid not to pull a fast one? He was after the jewel fragments, which Kikyo harboured on her person. This kid could transform at will and steal the fragments from under their nose then attempt an escape. Suddenly, InuYasha felt himself being pulled to the ground the small fox reverted himself into a stone buddha figure, formed with scrolls. Seems he was right to listen to his instincts after all.
The small demon fox scurried away, sniffing the air impatiently, he didn't have time for their gawking or their insults, he didn't have time to wait, he needed to become stronger. He could sense the jewel shard but where were they hiding it? They must have had a large amount due to the strength of the jewels aura. In the food packages? In their luggage? He then sensed the weak spiritual aura coming from the human child who appeared to be just a bit older than him, but he didn't have time to play with her. Then he peered at the older female, she didn't look like any priestess he had ever seen before, she didn't dress like one, hell she was prettier than one he had ever seen before. But the aura radiating from her was unlike any spiritual power he had ever felt before, her strength was frightening and flowed from her in waves. He wondered if she was aware of her capabilities and how threatening she was to demons. But she carried the Shikon jewel and he had to claim it for himself, no matter the risks involved. He growled under his breath irritably, he leapt at her impatiently, his paws outstretched "Gimme the jewel you wench!" he demanded
Before Kikyo could respond, the small fox cub had latched onto her upper torso digging his claws into her clothes to prevent himself from falling. Climbing up her clothes like a small monkey, sensing the jewel bottle around her neck. He sniffed around her body looking for the hidden jewel shards. She blushed at the intimate contact of the small creature, she wasn't used to small creatures attacking her like this. Remembering when InuYasha caught her bathing by accident, "Akuma hentai!" she shrieked bitterly. Though this demon had weaker power, it was certainly cunning as the demon foxes were interpreted. She had never met such a perverse demon before, was this the tricks it resorted to due to his weaker form? She had underestimated his intellect. She smacked the small fox across the cheek abruptly, sending him flying towards the ground. The small demon fox was sent flying into a pile of skulls, the pain of his hard landing and being struck across the face causing pain to flare through his body. Kikyo gripped her bow and arrow tightly, covering her chest with one arm, daring him to attempt such an underhanded trick again less he wanted to suffer a zap of spiritual power to teach him a lesson. She had restrained attacking him to give him the benefit of the doubt, but it seemed even cute demons couldn't be trusted, glaring down at the small creature.
"Kikyo Onee-chan!" Kaede asked frantically, that horrid little fox had just attacked her poor sister. She knew some demons kidnapped human women forcing them to be their brides. Some would harass women for their lustful desires, but she had never seen a demon outright throw itself at a girl for its gain before. How dare he attempt such a gesture towards her sister, embarrassing her like that.
InuYasha glared, looming over the small cub with a fierce expression, this little imp had just appeared and caused so much trouble already. Interrupted their lunch, bitten his head, tried to steal the jewel and groped Kikyo. He was indeed entitled and used childish methods to make his plans follow through, but he wasn't standing for such sulky and troublesome behaviour. He cracked his claws menacingly as he stepped closer to the fox cub, he needed to be taught a lesson.
Shippo folded his arms sulkily, he hated that he was being bullied into doing this, he just wanted what he needed and then he would leave them alone. Why was he being victimised by these stupid humans? Forced to reveal his intentions so that the larger demon wouldn't attack him again "My names Shippo" he huffed. If they had just handed over the jewel when he asked he wouldn't have had to attack the older girl and then make his leave. Kikyo peered at him suspiciously, her cheeks still flushed from embarrassment, keeping her distance in case he tried to cause trouble again. Surely his parents had taught him better, to respect women and behave appropriately. Unless his parents had been a bad influence, she had heard stories of Tengu demons being drunkards with a similar perverse streak.
"Why'd you try and steal the jewel shards from Onee-san?" Kaede demanded cynically. He had attempted to rob them while they were eating and make off with the spoils. He had a lot of explaining to do and if he didn't want InuYasha to punish him again he would be honest. She had lost all patience with this little mutt and he would do what was best. Hell, being slapped was the last thing he needed to worry about, at least if she had her say about all of this.
Shippo stared at the ground quietly, he didn't know why he was sharing such things with strangers? This was none of their business and they didn't understand him whatsoever. They didn't deserve to hear what he had to say or become involved with him. But he knew they wouldn't release him unless he told them the truth, the older male demon glaring him down with a menacing expression, warning him to behave. He sighed heavily, relenting that he had no choice "I… I want to get revenge for my papa" he muttered. He wouldn't know peace until his father's spirit had been comforted after his tragic loss.
Kikyo's expression softened, feeling guilty for being so rough with the fox cub but now understanding his methods and desperation. When in grief people acted recklessly due to their conflicted emotions, blinded by their pain and torment. Having lost her parents as a young child due to a car accident she could understand his pain, losing your parents tragically at such a young age was never easy to cope with. But robbing people was not the answer, behaving the way he was would not bring his father back or put himself in a good light. "Your father was murdered?" Kikyo asked sympathetically, wondering if he had been hunted down for his pelt or used as food by humans.
InuYasha hummed, now it was starting to make sense, losing a parent was never easy for anyone. Leaving regrets and loss in its wake, grieving and longing for the bygone happiness of knowing their love and comfort. But he wasn't going to ignore his behaviour and attempted theft of the jewel shards "So you must want the shards to increase your power isn't that right?". He could see why such a small demon would want the jewel, he barely had any power and would be an easy punching bag for stronger demons.
Shippo pouted, he could sense the older male demon was mocking him "Even with borrowed powers I'm no weakling" he stated proudly. He was simply increasing his demonic power with help from the shards, he could stand up for himself no problem. He was a pure demon and he was proud of that fact, he would never let anyone speak down to him.
Kikyo folded her arms, staring down at the small fox sharply, for all she could empathise with him she wouldn't ignore his behaviour. "Even so, stealing the shards for your personal gain is immoral. I'm sure your late father would be very disappointed in you Shippo" Kikyo scolded. If his father had been so important to him, such a valuable role model, did he think these sorts of actions would make him proud? Stealing from innocent people? Harassing people to make himself feel good? Using underhanded methods to get what he wanted? Surely he should know better than that. InuYasha snorted in amusement, Kikyo was rather scary when she needed to be, venting all of her maternal energy into educating Shippo. It was why Kaede had turned out so well. She had taught her how to harness her powers while becoming a decent human being. Tough love but the best education.
A raging battle took place between the mountain landscapes of some barren grounds, men fighting each other for blood, the scent of blood and steel filling the air as the oncoming storm clouds rumbled above them. Screams of rage and hatred echoing for miles, the clashes of steel weapons and galloping of horses as they carried their owners into battle fearlessly. One soldier gazed at the sky above, something other than the clouds catching his eye, two figures approaching the battle at a quick speed. A handsome dark-haired male with his hair styled into a braid adorning armour approached on a cloud followed by an amphibian creature with a pointed snout, bald and wearing a similar armour. "Let us enjoy another hunt Manten" Hiten cackled in wicked delight. These pesky humans were so involved in their boring politics that they were blind to everything else around them. How pathetic, he would happily show them what real power was, what real battle meant compared to their trivial rivalry. They had been so interested in killing each other they never even saw them coming.
"Hai Hiten Onii-chan" Manten agreed in amusement, watching them scurry away like mice was entertaining, knowing they were overpowered and wouldn't be able to escape. Watching the fear in their eyes as they contemplated their last moments. Humans were such foolish creatures, Hiten shot down a bolt of lightning, shattering the ground and slicing bodies apart with silent screams and bloodshed. Men on horses and surviving men on the ground backed away in horror and disbelief at what they had seen. Hiten hollered in amusement, roars of amusement escaping his lips as he swept through the sky, his eyes gleaming with delight as he watched them crawl and sob with fear. Manten sneered in the response under his breath, now he would prove his worth and power to these humans. He peered around suspiciously, his keen eyes watching the ground. He opened his reptilian jaws, his wide jaws of shining sharp teeth, forming a large bolt of lightning in his jaws, shooting them at the remaining samurai on the ground. Before they could blink, the humans below were turned to ash in mere seconds.
"Ha, such fun Manten" Hiten mocked, watching the humans cower in fear at their awesome power was truly fun, reminding them of their weakness and helpless disposition. Humans needed to be reminded of their place, that for all their weapons, all their armour, they had no power over demons, they were simply cowardly creatures and toys for amusement.
"Indeed it was Onii-chan" Manten agreed. Watching their suffering, their shrieks of fear and attempts to escape was always fun, knowing they had no way out. He felt stronger than he ever had before, demanding respect and authority.
Hiten stroked his forehead softly "Since we discovered these jewel fragments I have discovered a newfound power within myself" he smirked arrogantly. He gazed at his brother with a wicked smile "let us discover more Manten" he suggested. The more jewels they were able to discover the more unbeatable they would become.
Manten grinned in agreement "Hai, we'll wipe them all out like that fox cub the other day"
"So, your father was carrying a jewel fragment upon his person" Kikyo questioned reflectively. If he had been carrying it on his person, it seemed a stronger demon had slain him to steal the power for himself. Though it was, unfortunately, the reality of the demon food chain, it was still tragic all the same. Demons had a food chain, the stronger you were, the higher up you became. The weaker you were, the lower you were, it was similar to that in a pack or among humans. The strong loved to control and abuse the weak, though ironically those that were pushed around were stronger in heart than their oppressors.
Shippo nodded, he had hoped it would make him stronger to protect them both but ultimately led to his death instead. "They go around slaying fellow demons who carry the jewel fragments" he explained. So long as you had one on your person, they would sniff out the shard and steal if for themselves, leaving death in their wake. The jewel's power truly did bring out the worst in people, just like the legends said.
"They?" Kaede questioned curiously, so whoever had killed his father had done so together, ganging up on a weaker being like the cowards they were. This jewel seemed to cause nothing but trouble to those its hands fell into, she could now understand why Kagome had fought so hard to protect it. She had wanted to prevent the jewel from bringing out further bloodshed, but sadly her wishes had crumbled into dust with its revival. What a mess it had become, with how small the fragments were, it would be a long time before the jewel was whole.
"The thunder brothers" Shippo scowled coldly, just the mention of their name brought fear and hatred into his very soul. He would never forget what they had done, what they had stolen from him, all for the sake of power. He had lost his family all so they could get a shard of the Shikon jewel for themselves. They would pay for what they had done to him.
"Thunder brothers?" InuYasha repeated suspiciously, he'd never heard of them before in all of his travels, they had to be lesser demons because this was a first for him. His older brother was a lord of the western lands, everyone knew of his father despite his passing. Everyone knew him for being a half breed and his relation to Sesshoumaru, their reputation couldn't be as infamous as they believed.
"Hiten and Manten? I hear they are violent and dangerous beings…" Myoga stammered nervously. Demons of the storms themselves, they loved nothing more than battle and to cause chaos in their wake. Should there be violence or tragedy, the thunder brothers would appear to make it worse, revelling in the suffering of others. Unpredictable and dangerous as a thunderstorm itself.
InuYasha hummed, not that he looked for trouble when he was bored, but this did sound tempting to him. It meant they could find jewel shards and add to their collection "So, we hunt down these jerks who killed your papa, we find jewel fragments correct?". Kikyo could continue to purify the jewel shards and hopefully accumulate them into a bigger piece of the jewel, her powers compared to Kagome's were far more efficient. She was self-taught and truly focused on her training. In such little time, she had been able to collect jewel shards and grow deeper as a person, though she carried self-doubt and curiosity of Kagome, wondering if she could compare. She was lonelier than Kagome had been, a sense of conflict in her heart caused by her maturity and loss from a young age.
Shippo scoffed, for someone of mixed blood this InuYasha guy was cocky "Pssh, don't make me laugh. An outsider like you won't even be able to hold a candle to either of them" he taunted. No wonder he was so attracted to these humans, the blood in him made him more comfortable around such weaklings instead of his breed. He wanted the shards so he could finally fit into the demon world, how pathetic. He needed to learn his place and understand compared to purebloods he was inferior. InuYasha raised an eyebrow, what was this kid trying to insinuate, it seemed he enjoyed running his mouth which was why he found himself in trouble so much. Surely he would have wisened up by now and realised that speaking your mind in his case was a bad idea. "You're a half breed right, you carry the scent of a human in you" Shippo mocked, his father a full demon had bedded a human female leading to his birth. He could try to act tough around him but he was still just a half breed. He had no business acting like he had any connections to demons, he would always be an outsider to the demon world. InuYasha stiffened, a flash of pain and anger danced across his expression, it seemed as though everyone loved to point this out. His mother had always known his life would full of hardships due to his mixed blood, aware that her love for his father would lead to her sons suffering. Being the only human until Kikyo to have ever shown him kindness. But here he was being insulted by a smaller demon, this kid had a good nose. Reminding him of all the hurtful insults his brother had showered upon him over the years. Shippo stuck his nose up proudly "As a mediocre inferior half-blood, you've got no reason to stick your nose in the business of pureblood demons"
Kikyo gripped her hands into balled fists, she had until now tolerated Shippo's behaviour out of a belief they were childish antics. Acting out as a coping mechanism for all of the problems he had endured in his life, seeking attention and approval from others. Feeling a sense of pity towards his loss of his father, of how his bitterness to losing a parent had made him brash. But his behaviour and insulting InuYasha wouldn't be tolerated, InuYasha was not lesser than him because his mother had been human it made him more of a man. Kaede approached the small fox, yanking on his tail hard and kicking his rear, sending him flying face-first into the dirt. She was sick of this fox berating the people she cared for and acting like the victim. She'd lost her parents too, she'd lost people she loved and faced hardships, but she didn't behave like him. She never caused problems for Kikyo, she never acted like a brat and she tried to prove her worth so she could become a priestess in her own right. She hated listening to this coward insult people to feel good about himself.
Shippo landed with a crash and an oof onto the ground, he raised his head to shoot a bitter glare at the human girl who had attacked him "What did you do that for?" he hissed. He was merely speaking the truth and trying to get rid of the followers who involved themselves in his business. Why was a half breed picking fights with his enemies and trying to steal the jewel? More so why were humans defending him? Didn't humans hate and fear demonkind?
Kaede glared at him fiercely "I'm sick of your ungrateful attitude and self-entitled behaviour! First, you try and rob us, then you grope my sister for a jewel shard, then you insult InuYasha onii-chan. We've got a mission to take care of and your tedious whining is disrupting it!" she snapped. They had fed him, shown him kindness and even accepted him into the group. They had no reason to help him, to show pity and involve themselves in his dispute, but they had. He felt that because he had lost someone he could treat other people like shit? He whined and complained that everyone was mean to him but loved causing pranks and being a brat. InuYasha smirked from the background until now Kaede had remained silent simply overhearing, over the time they had known each other, saving her from the ogress Yura, from fighting the demon toad, the demon mask and now this. Their relationship had become less hostile and friendlier, they had developed a bond, her attaching herself to him and looking at him as an older brother figure. She harboured a great deal of respect for him and wouldn't tolerate people insulting him. Kaede only had a sister and never a brother, she was used to being a tomboy and was often teased for it back home. InuYasha was accepting and understanding of her. He was a younger sibling to an abusive older brother, so having someone who idolized him meant a lot to him. The two looked out for each other and though they teased one another, carried a lot of trust and affection for each other.
Shippo huffed, he didn't have time to hear the whining of a girl "I need to get revenge for my father" he growled. His father had been killed in cold blood and he wouldn't let that be ignored. He didn't ask for their help nor he did he need it, they had forced him to join their group despite his reservations.
Kaede folded her arms "And we have to respect lady Kagome's dying wishes and collect the jewel shards. But you don't hear us complaining!". They had to travel back and forth between the modern and feudal era, balancing schoolwork and priestess responsibilities. She would be attending junior high school in another two years, for she was already ten years of age. Kikyo would be choosing colleges and attending a campus life in another year for she was a senior in high school. They had enough stresses on their plate without Shippo being a pain in their butt.
Kikyo sighed, intervening in the fight though she was amused at how Kaede had stood up for InuYasha. It showed the strong sense of loyalty and devotion she had developed for him. "Kaede, you know violence is never the answer to anything, Shippo, we kindly accepted you as a member of our party. We could leave you to your own devices to achieve your goal, but we aren't cold-natured in that sense. So I ask you to behave yourself" she warned. They had allowed Shippo to travel with them and aid him in getting revenge on his father, yet he berated them and spoke down to them freely. He was being ungrateful towards them and she didn't appreciate it. Shippo growled they were speaking to him like a kid when he was a demon, he hated that she spoke to him like a child. Why did everyone speak to him like he was a loser like he didn't belong? Like he was the joke in everyone's life who shouldn't exist? He raised his head to meet her gaze to protest but her cold piercing brown eyes were filled with a sense of sadness, empathy and yet fury. He bit his lip and ran off angrily, they weren't going to help him find his father, they would just get in the way. He didn't need their help, he could defeat the demons on his own if he had to. Kikyo watched the smaller demon scurry off, she would need to watch over him to be sure he was safe, she knew he was upset but he needed to learn not to blame his troubles on others. Being cruel to others because you were in pain was never the right answer, nor was it fair. She sighed heavily, she removed the Shikon shard bottle from her neck, placing it in Kaede's hands. She didn't know how long she would be and she didn't want to risk them being stolen "Kaede, watch this for me. I will go retrieve our little fox" she responded calmly, heading in the direction of the furry cub.
Manten gazed into the river, admiring his reflection with curiosity and sadness, wishing he had inherited his father's genes instead of their dear mother. Maybe then his life would have been less miserable and people would have respected him rather than treating him as a joke. Patting his balding head in hopes of finding some hair "If only I had a bit more hair, I would possibly find myself companionship like my Onii-chan Hiten" he mused reflectively. He sniffed the air curiously, a newfound aura surrounding the area "I sense the jewel, but where? It is close, I must find it" he hummed. Somehow he had been fortuitously blessed with finding new fragments which would surely make his brother happy, he sniffed the area, hoping to locate the jewel.
Shippo sat sulkily by a river, his eyes watery with tears and his nose wiggling. Small whimpers escaping his lips as he fought back the tears, wiping them away as they spilt down his furry cheeks. He didn't understand why everyone was so mean to him because he was small and weak. But he was starting to think that they weren't as bad as he previously assumed. The older girl had been nice to him but stern, she could have aimed her arrow and done him in, she harboured immense spiritual power within herself but she didn't look like a priestess whatsoever. He'd never seen such a mysterious yet strange girl in his life, how did she come to this world? The half breed had accompanied her, he showed a softness around her yet still carried his guard, acting as a guard dog towards anyone who looked strangely at her. The younger girl clung to them both, a residue of spiritual power also flowing from her, but not as strong as the older girl. He couldn't understand why the three of them would want the jewel and who was this lady kagome whom they spoke of? Suddenly, he heard a rustling from nearby, his ears twitching nervously as he sensed the oncoming danger. Had InuYasha come to berate him again? Was he going to be pushed around more? He wasn't in the mood for anymore teasing, he just wanted to be left alone with his thoughts. , his eyes widened with fear when a large ugly head appeared from the long grass, The face of the uglier monstrous thunder brother Manten. "Hmm? Well, lookie here, it seems my nose picked up the scent of wretched fox cub from the other day" he taunted
He approached closer, Shippo's eyes filled with tears and fear upon the sight before him "That's my…" he trailed off. After killing his father they were carrying his corpse around to gloat about their prize and killing his kin. Using it to spite him and keep himself warm, with such a thick hide how could he possibly feel cold? How could he feel anything while being capable of such cruel acts? He'd run in fear to protect himself without looking back, thinking his father had been reduced to cinders.
Manten grinned, patting the pelt around his waist in amusement, he was glad he recognized his prize. He would be following suit soon enough, as soon as he handed over the jewel shards he harboured. "Indeed little cub, your papa's pelt, it does well to keep me warm" he grinned.
Shippo glared at the demon with a look of hatred, he'd murdered his father for the jewel shard then used him as a trophy, using his pelt to keep him warm after killing him in cold blood. His kind, loving father who never harmed a soul had been hunted down and slain all for the power of a mere jewel "How dare you!" Shippo screamed furiously. Now he was all alone in the world as an orphan and he hadn't even been able to say goodbye to his father. His peaceful carefree days torn from him.
The demon grinned, he loved to see that fire in the cub's eyes, knowing he was helpless and yet still tried to fight him, he had spirit but he didn't know when to quit "Now, hand over the jewel to me brat, I know you have it" Manten warned. His mouth began to glow with demonic electricity, he would fry him in seconds and reduce him to ash. Shippo whimpered, he didn't have the jewel, that woman did, he'd needed it to prove he was more than just the weakling this demon saw him as. Treating him as a toy to amuse himself, mocking his pain and fear like a game. He wished he had the jewel so he could become stronger, but instead, he was being used as a punching bag. He felt fresh tears welling up as he awaited a painful death like his father. Suddenly, an arrow shot by, piercing Manten in the chest, paralyzing him and sending pain throughout his body, it missed his heart but shot him in a semi vital region. He reached up shakily to acknowledge the inflicted wound. Whom had dared to attack the great Manten, yet managed to hurt him so precisely?
Kikyo stepped out of the reeds with a cold glare, she had overheard the whole conversation, hearing of how Shippo's father had perished. To use his father's corpse as a trophy and then mock his child with it was truly despicable. She would show this beast no mercy and be sure that Shippo got revenge and peace. To bully a child was truly a cowards move, wielding her bow and arrow, her dark hair flowing in the gentle breeze. Glaring down Manten with a fearless expression "Step away from the cub you fiendish bully" she warned. He was truly a coward, to overpower and threaten a small cub for fragments of the jewel, to mock his grief by reminding him of how he slew his father using the power of the shards. This demon had power but without the shards he was nothing, he bullied and terrorized others because of his fragile masculinity. If was truly a strong demon then why not fight fairly? She drew a fresh arrow from her quiver, not once averting her gaze as she aimed the arrow at Manten's head "Don't you lay a hand on him, or the next arrow I release will go straight through your heart" she warned. She had slain enough demons during her time here, she had saved enough lives from being terrorized. She had endured fear, heartache and loss, but she would continue to show courage and resilience. This beast had caused this child enough trauma yet he persisted in making his life a misery. Kikyo glared down at the demon sibling with a look of hatred and fearlessness. This was another wicked demon she had previously faced, drunk on increasing its demonic power, apathetic to the pain and suffering it caused by hunting down other demons for the sake of becoming stronger. She wondered if she would ever meet any good demons in this world, or if their existence was a rarity. She wanted to believe they existed somewhere, hiding from the wicked spirits of this world.
Shippo sniffled tearfully "K… Kikyo…" he stammered, a sense of relief and gratitude washing over him. She had no reason to protect him, she had no reason to save him, so why was she attacking a thunder demon alone? Why would she show him mercy after he berated her friends and even attacked her? Why did she come to save him? Why was she involving herself in his problems? He had been a brat to her and caused difficulties for them, so why was she here? Why was she showing him mercy?
Kikyo peered at Shippo, aside from his tear-stained cheeks she could see no visible wounds, meaning the demon hadn't had a chance to lay its hands on him. Yes she was angry at him for insulting the people she cared for but she didn't hate him. Yes, he needed a role model and behavioural changes, but he was by no means a bad child. Relying on yourself you developed some bad habits "Shippo, come to me, we can discuss your misbehaviour in due course" she explained. Shippo scrambled towards Kikyo frantically, sensing her power weakened the demon, he would do whatever he could to make it up to her. Just so long as she saved him from this monster.
Manten loomed over the fox cub, chasing after him with large arms to grip his tail "You brat, hand over those shards to me at once" he growled
Kikyo's eyes sharpened, he was after the fragments of the jewel, she had indeed been wise to leave them in Kaede's care so they were out of his reach. She wasn't foolish enough to assume that the demon would try and steal them from her, she needed to be cunning and outwit them. But being a demon he could sense the jewels power from here, if she let him get away he would follow the scent to Kaede and InuYasha. She focused her gaze upon the demon's head, his forehead glowed a faded pink with fragments of the jewel located in his head. Absorbing the jewel's power and tainting it with his demonic aura, using the jewel's strengthen his demonic power and behave like a bully. She needed to get them out of his grasp immediately before more harm was done to the shards. She took a deep breath, focusing her power with all of her abilities, if she could aim them correctly, she could shoot the demon and dislodge the fragments and collect them for herself. She didn't want to slay demons unless necessary to avoid needless fights that would hinder them all. She shot the arrow at the demon's head, trusting her aim and praying Lady Kagome would guide her through this. Times were stressful for her, the baggage and stress beginning to accumulate and wonder where her future would lead. How would she be able to balance all of this when she attended college next year? The arrow narrowly pierced the demon's head dislodging the fragment slightly, instead of piecing its skull and shooting a nearby tree. She clicked her teeth in frustration, though she was a skilled archer, she couldn't always be perfect. Remembering how close she came to being devoured by the demon mask, thinking on her feet with the boiling water with the toad. "It seems my focus is deterred today, I presume my frustrations and panic may be affecting my concentration" she reflected. When stressed or upset, her skills were affected due to her mental state, which was understandable. A few fragments of hair tumbled down from the demons head, slowly dropping to the ground. Kikyo blinked curiously, this demon was able to grow hair? Was it a half breed like InuYasha? Or perhaps one of the parents had been a humanoid demon? She had not known many demons to harbour human characteristics, it wasn't a common trait in the demon realm.
The demon froze, patting its head shakily, a look of panic on his face, indeed, this beastly girl had dislodged the jewel fragments and also his remaining hairs. She had managed to ruffle his appearance and ruin his complexion. He growled lowly, first, the demon cub had caused him humiliation, now this strange but powerful young girl had tried to scalp him and instead balded him, "MY HAAAAIIIR!" the creature screamed tearfully.
Kikyo stiffened, she could sense the demonic power of this creature rising and have unintentionally angered it with her bad aim. She knew better than to have involved herself in this fight but she couldn't ignore that Shippo needed comfort. But instead, she had found herself in trouble that she would have been wiser to ignore. She scooped up Shippo in her arm intuitively, rushing away from the demon, like the devil was on her heels. The creature's mouth began to glow with a yellowish blue light, sparks and energy forming in its great jaws. "We… we gotta get out of here, my pops, he was killed by that same attack!" Shippo panicked frantically. As the two attempted to escape, running through the long grass at a quick speed, hoping they could hide in the long reeds and escape from the demon. The demon opened its jaws to release a burst of electrical energy like a beam straight in their direction. Kikyo wrapped her arms protectively around the small cub, forming a spiritual shield around them both to lessen the blow, this way they wouldn't be turned to ash under the power of the demon. She rarely used her spiritual power for defensive rather than offensive, she just hoped it didn't cause him any pain. Despite her skill, she was still learning new things about herself every day. Wondering what powers she had inherited from Lady Kagome and which ones were her own by birthright. But there was one thing she was certain of, she didn't plan on dying in a place like this. Kikyo felt herself being thrown into the air, a force pushing her off her feet and staggering. As she stumbled, her head smacked against a rock, pain shooting through her head as she came into contact with the ground. Hitting her head against the sharpness, knocking her unconscious and lightly grazing her skull while doing so. The world turning to black as her consciousness began to fade.
Manten panted heavily after releasing his thunder attack he was rather exhausted, his gaze flitted around curiously, making sure they weren't hiding from him "Did I get them?" he huffed wearily. Hopefully, that would teach them a lesson to incur the wrath of the almighty Manten of the thunder demon tribe.
Shippo uncovered his head, climbing out from the grasp of Kikyo's arms cautiously, she had shielded them both with her spiritual power, protecting them from the demons attack. She had put her life on the line for his sake and tried to protect him while collecting more jewel shards, she had endangered herself despite knowing the risk. No human had ever shown him such kindness before. She had been patient with him, she was still angry but willing to look past his mistakes and allow him to explain himself. She had come here alone to speak to him, despite knowing he may steal from her again. He approached her timidly "K…Kikyo?" he stammered. Suddenly, he heard someone approaching, his tail turning rigid with fear, seeing the bald head of the lumbering Manten approaching. He knew now without protection from Kikyo he would be killed in an instant, he needed to take this chance while the iron was hot. He scrambled deeper into the reeds in hopes of hiding himself.
Manten approached Kikyo curiously, sniffing the air suspiciously, there were no jewel shards and the scent of the demon fox had dissipated. What a pity, had he killed the demon fox too quickly or had he escaped from him once more? Acknowledging Kikyo's unconscious form "This is just the girl" he grumbled impatiently. Why would a mere human protect a fox cub for the sake of jewel shards? What would a human want with them? He leered over her suspiciously, her skin was pale milky white with dark lashes, her soft pink lips like a rose petal, her dark flowing locks that tumbled down her back like the night sky. He loomed over her, he wasn't popular with the female gender and she was a lovely specimen "L… lovely" he stammered. Perhaps in his travels for the Shikon jewel, he could use her for companionship, God knows he was never able to convince them in person. They always cowered or showed disgust towards him.
Shippo peered out of the reeds suspiciously, wondering if Manten had finally left, his aura had lessened and everything had become quiet again. To his shock and horror, Manten had scooped Kikyo within his grasp, a trickle of blood running down her temple. Flying into the sky upon his cloud with Kikyo in tow, to do god knows what to her. During his cowardly escape, he had left Kikyo unprotected and allowed her to be kidnapped in his place. Shippo stared in disbelief, guilt, shock, fear and confusion filling him all at once "K… Kikyo, I tried to steal the jewel from her, she scolded me but she still accepted me into the group" he muttered. She'd come to comfort him, she'd come to explain to him, she'd stood up to Manten and even tried to fight the bigger demon to protect him. Yet he got her kidnapped, he got her into harm's way because he was a blind fool "Damn it.." he muttered.
Kaede paced impatiently, gripping the jewel shards tightly in her hand, something wasn't right and she knew it. She knew her sister shouldn't have followed that damned fox, they should have just packed up and left. "Kikyo is taking too long, she should be back by now" she muttered. She knew her sister, she was rational, wise and intuitive, she would never endanger herself recklessly for no reason, she was far too wise for that sort of thing. Nobody could manipulate Kikyo, her heart was too pure.
InuYasha hummed, patting her head affectionately, he knew how close they were and how strong their bond was, she had every right to worry. She'd nearly lost her sister 3 times as it was, being kidnapped by an ogre, nearly eaten by a frog and now a fox demon. But Kikyo would never abandon her sister, she cared too deeply about her, they were joined at the hip. But her anxieties would cause her to overthink, being so young it was understandable. "Oi, kid, your sister ain't no pushover, she can handle herself" he reassured her. Suddenly, the grass rustled, a form moving through them, was it those infamous thunder brothers come to hunt them down? Had they smelled Shippo and followed him here? Kaede gripped the jewel bottle to her chest protectively, she wouldn't hand over the shards without a fight. They had gone to hell and back for these and like hell, they would let a demon get their grubby hands on it. She had no bow or arrow but she could fight just as well on her own. Her sister had weapons on her so she could fight. InuYasha stood in front of her defensively, prepared to fight any demon for the shards, Kaede was still developing her powers and was smaller in form. She could fight but she was still capable of being harmed by demons.
Shippo poked his head out from the grass hesitantly, glaring them down "Yo…" he trailed off. He could sense the anger and fear pouring from them, they didn't trust him and he understood that. But now he needed their help, and he needed theirs. They would have to become unwilling allies if they were going to win this fight. He knew he was guilty of involving her in this because of his pettiness and childish behaviour, but they now had a common goal, to defeat the thunder brothers.
InuYasha and Kaede both softened but were filled with suspicion, why was he hiding and why did he look guilty? Something was wrong and they knew it, it was written all over his face. Why was he alone? Kaede frowned, storming up to Shippo and glaring him down angrily, he was hiding something and she would get the truth out of him. She wasn't as patient as her big sister was and she wouldn't hesitate to react violently to teach him a lesson. "What happened to Kikyo Onee-chan?" she demanded. They had trusted him and he had betrayed them all for the sake of a jewel shard, how selfish and petty could one person be? Hell, she was only a couple of years older than him and she was better behaved. She knew they should have chased him away while they had the chance, he couldn't be trusted.
Shippo backed away nervously, wary of her temper and her strength "I… I'll tell you, but you can't hit me" he stammered. He knew he had done something bad, he knew he had upset this girl by involving her family. He never thought Kikyo would follow him, that Manten would show up and she would be kidnapped. This isn't how he planned it, but somehow everything had turned into a mess and he was sorry. He knew she was hurting because of him but it wasn't too late to fix what had happened.
Kaede growled, but she balled her hands into her fists, he was avoiding the question which only made matters worse. She knew something wasn't right, this little beast was hiding something from her "What happened to my Onee-chan?" she repeated coldly. She knew he had meant trouble, why did they allow him to join their group, they had shown him pity and he took advantage of them, sometimes she thought InuYasha was the only good demon in the world, albeit a half breed. It seemed danger always followed them and targeted her older sister.
Shippo swallowed nervously, sensing the ominous rage aura emanating from them both. There was no way to soften this blow so he may as well get it over with quickly "She… she was… Manten of the thunder brothers kidnapped her…." He muttered. Instead of protecting her, he escaped while she was unconscious like the coward he was. He didn't stay and fight, he didn't put up a guard and he didn't create a distraction, he just turned tail and ran.
InuYasha froze, a dark look appearing on his face, his golden eyes filled with silent rage, this little brat had just worn out the last ounce of his patience and mercy. It didn't take him long to guess what happened, the whole story had just unfolded within him admitting the truth. This brat had run off to sulk and ran into his enemy who happened to be nearby. Kikyo had protected him and ended up being kidnapped in the process due to Shippo causing trouble. Instead of admitting defeat and moving on with his problems, he demanded he got payback for losing his father and got Kikyo mixed up in it all, putting her in harm's way because he was too cowardly to face his enemies.
Kaede stormed towards Shippo, gripping his cheeks and yanking hard angrily, putting every ounce of strength into her arms. Remaining silent, while an aura of frightening rage formed around her. She wouldn't forgive him for this, the person she loved and trusted more than anything had been abducted because of him. This selfish coward had attacked her sister, tried to steal the jewel and got her sister kidnapped. If he had never shown up none of this would have happened, they could still be enjoying a picnic and sharing laughter instead. But he ruined everything.
"Itai!" Shippo yelled tearfully, she was a lot stronger than she looked even without using her spiritual abilities on him.
Kaede released her hands while Shippo cupped his swollen cheeks angrily "You ran away! You hid like the snivelling coward you are and left Kikyo to fend for herself! She pitied you and you abandoned her!" she snapped fiercely. She could feel herself shaking with rage, she wanted to scream to the heavens of how unfair this was. Kikyo had never hurt anyone, she had never caused trouble and was the kindest, smartest person she knew. Why was she paying for someone else's burdens? God, she could punch this stupid fox. Shippo bowed his head, he could see her glassy eyes, the pain and the anger inside of her. He had behaved the same way when he lost his father and after they had been mean to him. But her feelings were justified, she was simply being honest with her confrontations. She was resentful towards him for endangering her sister and causing them trouble. If she wanted to kick him, punch him or even throw things at him he would accept it, he deserved it for what he had done.
InuYasha approached them both, placing his hand on Kaede's head to soothe her. He knew she was angry, the conflict and the confusion inside of her was raging like a storm, but it would only delay saving Kikyo. He promised he would get her sister back safe and sound. She gripped his Hakama leg quietly, pressing herself against him for comfort, sobbing silently. Kikyo meant everything to her, she'd raised her, trained her and taught her everything she knew of being a priestess. She was her only family after losing their parents, now Kikyo had been kidnapped at the risk of being eaten alive. "So, that revenge plan of yours fell through huh?" he scoffed mockingly.
Shippo winced shamefully, he knew InuYasha was right but he wasn't the only person in the wrong here. He wasn't entirely to blame for what had happened, they were mocking and insulting him, but where had they been when Kikyo needed them? Hadn't they heard the attack, their screams? "Damare! Ain't she your girlfriend half breed?! Why didn't you come to save her?!" Shippo snapped. He knew that she meant a great deal to them, they travelled together and carried a fondness, so why did he leave her unprotected? Wouldn't he have come running?
InuYasha blushed, this kid was perceptive indeed, maybe too much for his own good. But then perhaps his big mouth was what had gotten him into trouble, to begin with, he needed to learn to pick his fights better. Kaede was aware of their blossoming feelings and her comment on calling him her beloved half breed. The two had a strong attraction for each other but had yet to admit their affections. He didn't know what it was about Kikyo but he always felt so calm around her. He looked into her eyes and he felt a sense of peace, he would do anything for her, he felt nothing but pure love for her. She was unlike any woman he had ever met before, her moods like an oncoming storm, silent and deadly. But her gentle kindness was as warm as the sunlight. Kaede had said nothing but encouraged conversation between the two. She knew he made her sister happy, Kikyo though awkward felt a sense of comfort around InuYasha, becoming bashful, shy and self-aware. But this kid had picked up on it instantly, but if he caused trouble for them he was in for a shock. She had slowly nursed their relationship, encouraging them to become closer and now it was starting to work.
InuYasha took a heavy breath, this kid was testing his last nerve, he would happily chew him out but they didn't have time. He had someone to protect and he planned on doing so with all of his might. There was no way in hell he was going to let those demons eat Kikyo, he refused to allow Kaede to become an orphan, he knew how painful that reality was. To be all alone in the world with nobody who cared about you, whether you lived or you died. "Listen, kid, I don't give a rats ass about what happens to you. Kami knows you've caused enough trouble already. But Kikyo is her big sister, she's all she's got, I don't plan on her becoming an orphan too. So if you want revenge on papa, you gotta apologize to her and me both for insulting us" he scolded.
Shippo stared at InuYasha in awe, he was going to make him beg? He was going to make him break his pride all for the sake of a woman? He peered at Kaede silently, holding his stance. She resembled her older sister greatly, the same dark eyes and long black hair styled similarly but into a long ponytail. She was adorning similar strange clothing, an oversized cardigan which appeared to be made of sheep's wool, a long-sleeved shirt of sorts of that resembled an under robe of a girls kimono. A sort of scarf around her neck formed into a bow, a shorter kimono that was grey coloured and reached her knees. Alongside a pair of black stockings that reached her knee and brown shoes. She was a fiery natured, stubborn individual who spoke her honesty without hesitation, she showed no fear in danger and was fiercely loyal to those she cared for. He'd never met a girl as strange yet powerful as she was, she carried weaker but still powerful spiritual power. Was she a priestess too? He couldn't help but wonder what she would look like as she grew up. He felt his cheeks flushing, he'd never been around a girl before until now, keeping his distance and staying close to his father at all times. But his father always told him to never make girls cry or be mean, it wasn't polite. He knew Kikyo was in danger and he was to blame, Kaede was angry because her sister was in danger and it was his fault. She also didn't appreciate that he insulted her big brother if he was to get on her good side he needed to apologize immediately. He bowed his head shamefully, gripping his hands into balled fists "G… Gomen'nasai, I tried to steal from you, I upset you and your sister and insulted your Onii-chan. But please, can you help me get revenge?" he pleaded quietly.
InuYasha softened, but he peered at Kaede, ultimately the decision was up to her, he would happily abandon Shippo alone to fend for himself for all the trouble he had caused but it was not his decision to make. He felt her grip his trouser leg for comfort, avoiding Shippo's eye contact stubbornly. Kaede softened, she wiped her eyes quickly to hide her tears. She hated crying in front of people including her sister because she hated being patronized, he knew that feeling all too well growing up. Hiding his tears from others as he raised himself in an unforgiving world. Rarely did she feel comfortable crying in front of him or Kikyo, in the time they had known each other she had come to look at him as an older sibling, the two of them trusting each other indefinitely. Though InuYasha was the youngest of two siblings he had never had someone to look up to or look out for him, so he acknowledged Kaede's admiration of him as the sibling he never had. While in return she had accepted him as an older brother figure and was fiercely protective of those who judged him, similar to that of Kikyo. "F… Fine, whatever. You can help us save Kikyo, but if you annoy me again you can be chow for those thunder demons" she huffed.
InuYasha sighed relentingly, the longer time they stood around wasting time, the less time Kikyo had of surviving. They didn't have any more time to waste standing around while Kikyo was in danger. He would let Kaede do whatever she wanted to this stupid fox later but right now they had more important matters at hand. He had already lost Kagome to a demon, he wouldn't let the same fate befall Kikyo too. He knelt patiently, awaiting Kaede to approach, "You better get on, I don't have all the time in the world, Kikyo is one step closer to becoming demon food" he huffed
A thundercloud rumbled lowly over a mountain cabin quietly, an oncoming storm making itself known to the surrounding villages, ominous dark clouds swirling through the sky warning human travellers to stay away. Warning them of oncoming danger and many other frightening unknown dangers that would await them should they try attempt to get a closer look at the realm of the demon brothers.
Kikyo stirred, groaning lowly under her breath as a shooting pain ran through her skull as she felt her senses returning. Her head ached terribly, now aware of the bump and cut on her head caused by hitting the rock that knocked her out. Could she have possibly suffered a concussion during her fall? But she felt no nausea nor no symptoms of concussion for which she felt grateful. Hopefully, she could walk out of here unscathed with merely a minor head injury, she cautiously felt her head, the lump was there but the cut wasn't severe. It was a light graze that didn't need stitches, but she needed to clean so it wouldn't become painful, she had some medicinal herbs that would do the trick. She gazed around the room weakly, wondering what had become of her, attempting to recall what had led her to this situation in the first place. What had happened to her companions while she was missing? Where was InuYasha, where was shippo and where was Kaede? Were they safe? She lifted herself from the bench silently, her head spinning and aching.
Manten blinked, peering back at her curiously, watching her sleeping face had truly been pleasant, she was lovelier than any human girl he had seen before. She had a strong spiritual essence to her that would help empower his plans. But it was a shame to waste such a pretty face "Ah, you wake sweet maiden" he hummed. He would love to spend more time with her but unfortunately, fate had other plans.
Kikyo glared at him defiantly, she had lost her weapons but she wasn't defenceless, she was not to be misunderstood purely based on her appearance, there was more to her than met the eye. Her years of training at the family shrine had served her well and she would make use of her powers now. She would trick these demons and make her escape, she could still focus her ki into creating a barrier around herself which had deflected his attack. Though accustomed to the ways of archery, she could find a temporary weapon to take its place in the meantime "Tell me, where have you taken me?" she growled.
He hummed, peering at her curiously, something about this woman felt hauntingly familiar. There were legends about a woman with a face reminiscent of her own, though younger and inexperienced. He recalled that fifty years ago a priestess named Kagome had been purifying and protecting the Shikon jewel, preventing it from falling into the hands of demonkind. Though uncommon for a priestess she showed mercy and kindness to demons with whom she could trust. Perhaps that had been her downfall, she perished at the hands of a demon she harboured feelings for. Now that he was able to admire her once again, she harboured an uncanny yet matured resemblance to the fallen priestess. "It is said that fresh hair thrives on the flesh of a young maiden, more so with your spiritual essence. So will boil you down and turn you into a medicine" he explained.
Kikyo paled, nearly fainting from the shock of this information, how unfortunate had she become to have found this sort of luck? Her life was becoming more complicated the longer she visited this world. This beast wanted to boil her down into a soup and turn her into a hair revival medicine? Surely she could create such a simple medicine using herbs. She would happily teach him the remedy instead, the herbs he could collect to aid in his hair loss and health to encourage it to grow. But she doubted he would listen to her convincing. So she would have to be clever instead in hopes of outwitting him "You… you assume I will allow such a despicable plot to befall me?" she growled.
Manten panicked, she had a temper on her that seemed to empower her spiritual essence. The last thing he needed was something sniffing out her abilities, it would attract negative attention which would lead to him being scolded for his decisions. He was often mocked for his mistakes by other demons and his brother, which led to arguments, he panicked frantically "Please, calm yourself if Hiten Onii-chan were to discover you…" he babbled.
The door shattered instantly, their privacy immediately disturbed by his aforementioned brother, introducing himself to the pair. A handsome human-Esque demon with bright red eyes and braided dark hair appeared in the doorway. He showed kindness to his brother, a positive familial nature that showed an emotional bond between the two "Manten, I didn't expect to see you home so early" he beamed.
A slender dark-haired female demon with serpent qualities lingered beside him, peering down at Manten with a cold gaze "That beast is your brother? I do not see a close familial resemblance" she scoffed.
Kikyo shot a glare towards the female demon, appearance or not familial blood was a strong tie when birthing a child be it a full-blooded demon or half breed, you couldn't predict how the child would turn out. For all there were pretty demons, alluring faces and charm, there were ugly beasts that brought terror and depravity. There were monsters so hideous that they appeared to be something from a nightmare, bringing bloodshed and misery in their wake. There were half breeds with a pretty face like InuYasha and probably half-demons who wore an uglier appearance, but they were still loved by their parents. No child could ever control where they came from and though he was a beast, he was still his brother. Surely he would have been more supportive of his brother and treated him kinder due to this, the stronger demonic beast essence had formed into the younger brother.
Manten swallowed modestly, he knew he was hopeless sometimes but he meant well. He merely wanted his brother's approval while following his own goals to prove his worth "Onii-chan, I was… " he babbled frantically. This girl would be beneficial to them both, her flesh and blood would empower them both more than the shards possibly could.
Hiten peered across the room to see Kikyo curled up in the corner, pale-faced but intimidating. He could smell blood lingering on her but saw no visible wounds, had he interrupted something between the two? She carried a strange scent that he couldn't determine which made him curious as to why his brother chose her "Hmm, is that a girl?" he asked curiously. Kikyo shot him a fierce glare, she may have been weakened but she wasn't helpless, she would be sure that they knew what she was capable of. She had learned to fight and she knew how to protect herself. She couldn't always rely on InuYasha for protection, she needed to use her intuition if she was to get out of here alive. She knew they wouldn't be convinced by her pleas for mercy, she knew better than to trust a demon despite having a pretty face. Not all demons could be as kind as InuYasha or Myoga, nit all demons had a pure heart and softness for humans, that was how this world worked.
Manten stood in front of her defensively, he had gone to great lengths to steal this girl for himself, to find a female companion in which to appease himself before using her for his potion. He knew his brother was handsome, what if she favoured him over himself? His brother had always been popular with the fairer sex, so he had no choice but to abduct her so she couldn't escape. He couldn't allow her to fall into his brother's arms after going to so much trouble "This girl is mine… she is my prey" he stammered defiantly.
Hiten grinned, as lovely as she was he wouldn't be so cruel as to steal his brother's woman "Fear not Otouto-chan, for I have found myself a lovelier catch" he teased. While he had been out on his travels his attention had wandered to a lovely demon with a voice of silk. Placing his arm around his demoness companion to which she purred affectionately "Tell me Manten, during your travels did you come across any more jewel shards?" he asked hopefully. Kikyo shivered, she was relieved she had left the shards in Kaede's care, otherwise, they would have ended up in the hands of these demons. To be sly and prepared to outwit a demon was beneficial in these times, for you never knew what troubles may lie ahead. She couldn't allow all their hard work to fall through and simply allow them to achieve power without working for it.
"Did… um…oh yes… the jewel" he muttered timidly, that damned fox had deterred his concentration to which he had hoped to kidnap him and use him as a punching bag. But he had been caught up in a fight leading to him losing contact with them. They had been nearby but he hadn't been able to pinpoint their location accurately, Hiten tilted his head curiously, waiting for his brother's response. "I… I did locate them, I sensed them nearby but…" he stammered, he knew how pathetic he sounded.
"But? You do not mean to say that you were naively distracted by this human female that you forgot the Shikon shards" he replied in amusement. He had more faith that his brother would have been more competent to bring treasures more valuable than a simple girl. That he could rely on his brother to achieve something without his guidance for once. But it seemed he couldn't leave his brother alone for a second, for he was too clueless to achieve this simple task, he then shot his hand through his companion's skull, piercing her head with his fist, killing her instantly "You didn't let them slip through our fingers" he screamed. He had been so blinded by his lust and insecurities that he forgot himself, that they were thunder demons, they sought the shards to improve their rank and solidify their name?
"Onii-chan… I didn't…. forgive me…." Manten sobbed tearfully, he knew that he had inconvenienced them both, digging them into a hole of unwanted issues but he hadn't intended to cause such bothers. But at least they knew where the Jewel shards were located, so all they needed to do was find them. They had a silver lining they could still cling to throughout this ordeal.
"You waste of space" Hiten mocked, could he do nothing right? Had their mother suffered labour solely for her youngest son to be such an incompetent fool? Though he had the responsibility of looking out for his sibling, more often that not it was out of insufferable problems that were caused by Manten's inferior intelligence. Sometimes he wondered why he still bothered with his brother instead of leaving him to his own devices. Kikyo stared at the demonesses corpse in utter horror, this creature had killed her in an instant without hesitation, her head crushed like an egg. Her life had been blown out like a candle wick within seconds, mocking the younger sibling while expecting a brief courtship from the elder brother. Only to find herself at the mercy of his rage leading to her demise. A horrific reality began to loom over her shoulders as escaping became even more important to her, would this same fate befall her?
"That fox cub has the shards?" Hiten huffed impatiently, of course, that meddlesome brat had become involved in their plans after they had slain his father for the shards he would have hoped it would have scared him off. Was Manten so hopeless that he couldn't even cope with ridding them of a tantruming brat? Now the child had their shards which would lead them on a goose chase to locate him and get what was rightfully theirs.
"Are we to hunt him down now Onii-chan?" Manten pestered curiously, he would have to lock up this girl and keep her from escaping, he had gone to all the effort to kidnap her to make his potion. But now he would have to put his plans on hold for the sake of that cub. Though problematic as it may be he knew better than to argue with his elder when he was in a bad mood, it would only end in tears and shame for him.
Hiten scoffed, was he expecting they would let him get away with their prize? Had he no common sense in his thick skull? "What else, let us be off". They had wasted enough time sitting around while another demon may get their hands on the shards. If they were to become stronger, they would need to be cautious. The sooner they got their hands on them the better. Kikyo swallowed, she knew all too well Shippo didn't have the Shikon shard, but Kaede did. She had a target on her back now because she had entrusted it to her sibling for safekeeping. She wasn't a fool, she knew the fate of a child who harboured such things from demons, her spiritual power wouldn't be able to match theirs. These beasts would cut her down where she stood and steal the shards from her corpse, she couldn't allow such a horrendous act to continue. But she needed to strike while the iron was hot, she wouldn't get another opportunity like this. She began to slowly crawl off the bench hesitantly, hoping to avert any attention from herself.
Manten suddenly gripped a giant cleaver from his workbench, did she believe she had been forgotten, that he would release her because they had a new mission? He would have his hair tonic no matter what, her flesh wouldn't be wasted and her life wouldn't be in vain. Slicing it towards the bench towards Kikyo, the glint of the steel shining in the low light. Kikyo panicked, if she was harmed by that thing it would kill her instantly, of all the horrors, fears and adventures she had faced, she refused to die in this world. She had a future, she had dreams, she had a life awaiting her and sister that needed her. She wouldn't let her fate end so traumatically because of a wicked demon like this. She closed her eyes, focusing all of her ki that she could muster, she needed to believe in herself to get out of this mess. Though weakened she needed to be on her guard more so than ever, dangers lurked around every corner and she couldn't be so naive to think she would be unharmed. A shimmering pink barrier formed around her instantly, a crystalline shape flowing from her body. Blocking the demons attack, cracking the knife as it did so under the force of the spiritual power.
Manten froze, gripping his weapon in shock, the crack of the sword shattering it like glass within his grasp. He had thought perhaps he had been mistaken or it was a passing thought. He had sensed a familiarity of this girl, her appearance that resembled the late Kagome, but that barrier, such a powerful shield she had summoned abruptly of her own will. There was no mistaking it, this girl was indeed a priestess and she harboured stronger powers than the girl before she had ever hoped to achieve.
Hiten halted in the doorway, his gaze averting to Kikyo as if a strike of energy had run through him. His skin was vibrating with the sensation, every hair on his body on end. He had never felt such a strong spiritual essence from any human before, it clouded the air and blinded his senses. But more so, he hadn't heard of that power since the late priestess Kagome, how could this be possible? The late priestess Kagome had perished over fifty years ago, meeting her demise along with the rest of her kin. She had harboured the Shikon jewel before her demise at the hands of a demon she became involved with, attempting to protect it from demons and purify it. But she had been slain by the very demon she had developed affections for, dying like a fool for trusting a demon. Soon after the jewel had perished with her, before appearing fifty years later, so how was this girl connected?
Manten lowered his blade, allowing it to crash to the floor in two pieces, glaring down at her suspiciously hoping to get a scent of her true nature. This seemed far more fascinating than the jewel, if they could use her to their advantage they would leave this even more opportunistic. Just what secrets did this girl hold and why was she so powerful? She certainly didn't dress or behave like any priestess he had seen before. Kikyo swallowed, cracking open her eye to see the demon had lowered his weapon. She doubted he was going to release her, so what had changed their plans for her? Her eyes flitted around the room, the demon had lowered his weapon and neither were attacking, meaning, for now, she was safe. Perhaps she could make a run for it and escape their clutches, possibly making it out unscathed but traumatized all the same. She lowered her shield hesitantly, prepared to fight if need be, she wouldn't show fear to these beasts.
Manten approached, sniffing her curiously much to her disgust, was he hoping to absorb pheromones, force her into a marriage? Just what did he have in store for her now? Why had his opinion of her changed so drastically in such a short period? "You, girl, what are you?" Manten questioned, there was something strange about this girl.
Kikyo hesitated, she couldn't lie but she couldn't reveal she was Kagome's reincarnation. Kagome surely had many enemies and those who would abuse her power for evil. What if these beasts had fought her before and held some form of a grudge against her? She couldn't risk it "I… I do not understand what you are assuming?" she babbled anxiously. She wouldn't give them what she wanted, she wouldn't allow herself to be manipulated so easily, they didn't frighten her. She had lived alone until now, resilience was something she was familiar with, she could handle such situations like these.
Manten peered at her, there was no use in her attempting to play the fool "You protected that fox cub, you were there when I sensed the jewels aura" he confronted. She was connected to the jewel somehow, she knew of its location and she perhaps drew power from it. She would reveal the truth to them if she wanted to live, there was no use playing mind games. She could beg for her life which would be amusing, but they would get what they wanted from her regardless.
Kikyo glared, of course, this demon had sensed the jewel shards despite them not being on her person. They had sniffed it out like bee's to pollen, they sensed the jewel's power and sought to abuse it for themselves. But she would not allow herself to be used as a tool, she knew if InuYasha knew they had hurt her, they would pay dearly for their actions. She had come to see the gentle nature within, that he was no monster like these creatures "If you lay a hand on me InuYasha will…" she yelled abruptly. Realising what she had just revealed as it escaped her lips, wishing she had remained silent or thought of something else to say. Why under such situations had she become so honest?
Manten raised an eyebrow, he had heard that name before, it was infamous among the demon realm for a pesky half breed seeking acceptance "InuYasha?" he questioned. How did this girl know him? What were her connections and secrets, she would be honest if she knew what was good for her? She had given them a hint and now they would uncover the truth.
Hiten became suspicious, there was more to this girl than met the eye and they would get to the bottom of this. "InuYasha, didn't that half breed perish to a priestess fifty years ago?" he reflected. How could he still be alive? Had he hidden? Been sealed away? Just how had he escaped his demise, it didn't make any sense to him. But this girl was the key to defeating him and they would uncover that hidden weapon. How had he survived all these years, how had he been unknown? Surely they had a witness somewhere.
Kikyo shifted, mentally cursing herself for her loose tongue and careless actions. She couldn't get out of this no matter how much she regretted her actions, but she could warp the truth to her means and deter them. She couldn't allow them to hurt him, she couldn't allow them to win, she had to make sure they paid him no mind but she couldn't trust herself. The longer she stayed here, the more her anxieties increased, speaking her mind honestly despite it being best not to. "He… he has managed to break free of his binds and roam free to continue on his mission" she muttered sheepishly. His mission could be to find a mate, it could be to bend to his brothers will, she could lie about his true intentions at the very least.
Hiten scoffed, now she had to be making fun of them, this wasn't possible. "That weakling broke free of Priestess Kagome's binds, either her powers were all fairytales or lies, he's merely a half breed" he mocked. Her powers had been immense, she carried a passion in her soul which she formed a spell of her willpower, binding him away. Only the priestess Kagome could release him, thus he remained bound. Unless her powers were all smoke and mirrors, in which she was exaggerated to be as strong and she was rumoured to be.
Kikyo glared, she was sick of hearing these people insult InuYasha and Lady Kagome. They played dirty, they used underhanded methods and mocked those below them. They were honourless sadists who relied on the jewel shards to climb up the demon food chain, they were fools. They looked down upon him as if he was something to be ashamed of. They mocked him for his mixed blood yet he was still more honourable than these beasts, he fought valiantly and fair "He may only be a half-breed but he still managed to locate more shards than you" she scowled. Together they had formed more pieces of the jewel that would allow them to form it whole again, thus reforming the jewel and sealing it away.
"He…" Manten trailed off, then the power he had felt had not come from the demon fox at all but that pesky half breed? How could he have been mistaken? He always listened to his gut on such matters. Now he looked even more incompetent in front of his older brother, he wouldn't let him forget his mistakes so easily until he proved himself again.
"Has shards?" Hiten continued, it seemed their luck was becoming increasingly stronger, this girl would lead them to what they desired most. Though she was indeed a tricky one, he wouldn't deny her that. She was good at winding them around her finger, she didn't reveal where she had developed her powers or where she came from. A mysterious woman who had fallen into their hands.
Kikyo shivered, she hadn't meant to reveal that information, she finally located both owners of the shards they needed but now she had risked losing the ones they had already collected together. She didn't understand what was happening to her, why was she being so reckless? Her fear must have warped her ability to deflect questions and form a reasonable lie. That had to be the explanation, she couldn't consider another outcome for why this had happened. She was simply putting InuYasha and Kaede in deeper danger. They may have been able to rescue her without any form of an issue but now she had simply dug them into a hole of relentless danger and she hated herself for it. She could have stolen Manten's shards when they met but she missed her mark, they could have hunted down the second sibling without any issue following that. A flash of guilt formed on her face, how she could endanger him so selfishly? How could she reveal their plans? She had told them of InuYasha being freed by herself using her powers, she had hinted her connection to Kagome, she was giving the enemy answers that should remain hidden.
Hiten perched himself on the bench beside Kikyo, wary of if he got too close it would be harmful to him. She was a danger to creatures like them, wiping them out like rats, he could sense her power radiating from her, like a human battery. He had never felt such a power before, he wondered if she was even aware of her potential. The threat she posed to not only them but demonkind itself. She would surpass Lady Kagome, she was already capable of such gifts but more were yet to be awakened. She was truly a replica of the lady Kagome, only fearsomely more powerful "Girl, what is your relationship to this half breed?" he demanded suspiciously.
Kikyo felt her cheeks darken at his impertinence, he had no business in her relations with others. They were strangers and her heart was a locked door to those she couldn't trust. His keen observation was intrusive and unwelcomed, what did he hope to gain from it? It was true she harboured affections for InuYasha she wouldn't deny that statement, he had become important to her, protective of him. She felt her soul was bound to him, the red string of fate bound them together, she loved him like no other. He had proved himself worthy repetitively, he cared for herself and Kaede, going to great lengths to protect them. He acted brotherly towards Kaede and he was self-aware of his actions and behaviour around her. He felt remorse when he hurt her feelings, he babysat Kaede and showed concern for them both, they trusted each other with an unspoken depth. Would that be considered romantic interest in her? "I… he is…. We are companions, we travel together…" she trailed off, they journeyed great distance to locate jewel shards and reclaim what was lost to them. Fixing the mess they caused and healing the wounds caused through time. She was learning of her future responsibilities as a priestess, walking towards her future as a college student and developing into an adult along the way. She had spent her life feeling like an outsider, wearing a mask to keep others at a distance, but around him, she could be herself. She balled her hands into fists upon her lap "I… I trust him, I care for him…" she trailed off. She felt her cheeks darken as she reflected upon how empty her life had been before she met InuYasha, how they could understand each other. The emotional bond they had formed together. How his cheeks would lightly dust when they caught one another's gaze "He's unlike any man I have ever encountered before…" she reflected mentally.
"Hiten onii-chan…that girl, I do not sense lies but…" he trailed off, if they were true lovers and they enraged this half-demon, they would be in trouble. He knew of Inu-DaiYokai's to be fearsome creatures, carrying demonic strength that was on par to that of gods. They were stronger and lived longer than average demons, living for centuries before their demise. If this girl had been imprinted upon by a demon, then she was under their protection indefinitely.
"We can use her as bait…" Manten grinned wickedly, InuYasha may have been part Inu-DaiYokai but he was merely a half breed, his power was not nearly as strong as a pureblood. They could easily sway the mutt's feelings to hand over the jewels lest this girl is harmed because of his recklessness. He doubted he would be so foolish as to try and pull the hero card. Manten approached Kikyo, yanking at her neck scarf tightly, pulling her towards his face with a malicious smile "Girl, you will lead us to this halfling you are so smitten with, but know if you have deceived me, you shall end up dying as painfully as she…" he warned her, nodding to the body of the deceased demoness. Kikyo swallowed nervously, but she didn't avert her gaze or show fear, she wouldn't let them intimidate her. She could outwit them for as long as possible before defeating them with ease, though she would need to reserve her power for a while.
"W… we are almost there, t… the mountain hideout of… of the…t...thunder brothers" Shippo stammered. The air was stirring with tension, something was brewing and it meant trouble. Something in his instincts told him that running away was the best idea to have rather than remaining and endangering himself further. But he felt responsible for Kikyo, he didn't want Kaede to hate him and he wanted to make things right. He needed their help and he could no longer deny that. Trying to figure things out on his own just hadn't been working for him. Just thinking about seeing them again made his blood turn to ice in his veins.
"Guess you were all talk back there huh?" Kaede scoffed, he berated them and harassed InuYasha about his heritage yet when it came to tracking down his enemies he was cowering like a fool. She had been kidnapped by a centipede demon and an ogre, transported through time and nearly had her home destroyed by a demon mask. She'd faced all sorts of horrors and monsters that existed mostly in the minds of people her age. But she knew all too well they were real but she didn't let that deter her from her mission.
"What's wrong Shippo, you lose all that bravado?" InuYasha teased in amusement, though he had mocked them relentlessly earlier, he had suddenly turned into a snivelling crybaby. He'd sulked and insulted him and now that he had to admit his weakness he was in denial of it, showing his fear openly and crying for help. Though his young age made sense, he didn't know how to handle this loss and he blamed other people. When he'd lost his mother he had nobody show him kindness and resented other people for their cruelty towards him. But for all Shippo had insulted them, now that he was facing danger he was showing his true colours.
"Damare! I will avenge my father you naïve beast!" Shippo berated, he knew that InuYasha was mocking him because he knew Kaede would stand up for him. He knew InuYasha could see how scared he was yet he was mocking him for his fear. He knew the danger they were facing and yet he was being teased for such a natural response. InuYasha had no understanding of whom they were going to face, but he wouldn't be doing so for much longer, soon he would see how dangerous these brothers were. Kaede sighed, at least he wasn't insulting InuYasha about his half breed nature anymore, he was just sulking because he was aware he needed their help. He didn't want to admit his weakness and took it out on other people. However, she was growing weary of his personality and hoped he would change, if not she would happily stuff his mouth with cotton wool or some other form of a gag. He was still acting childishly and annoying, picking fights with InuYasha for no reason. "Hey, how strong are you anyway? The demon brothers have those shards to increase their powers?" Shippo questioned. He acted cocky and self-confident yet he was still yet to prove just what he was even capable of. He had the nerve to mock him for being afraid when he could have just been putting on a show for himself. How did he hope to help avenge him when he was running into this blind.
InuYasha snorted, this kid had no faith in anyone, did he? No wonder he kept getting bullied if he thought he could handle everything alone "That just makes them better targets" he grinned. So long as they had jewel shards they had caught his attention. He would make sure they never forgot his face and learned their lesson. Maybe it was the human in him, but he detested unnecessary bloodshed. Nothing was ever proven from a battle formed by stupid men who just wanted to rule, looking for something to control.
"I do hope lady Kikyo has concocted a scheme, she is most powerful but she is no match alone" Myoga reflected
InuYasha's expression became conflicted, he'd been wearing a poker face this entire time as to not trouble Kaede but he was plagued with insecurities. Blaming himself for letting her wander off alone and how she'd been hurt time and time again because of him. Not only Kaede was troubled over her sister's wellbeing, she was just more vocal on the subject. She'd burned her hands while exorcising that demon toad, grabbing a steel boiling kettle and using her thin scarf to cover her hands. She'd nearly been eaten alive by the demon noh mask, shooting her arrow at the last second. She kept finding herself in danger and it was all his fault because he was terrible at keeping an eye on her. But she was still only a mortal despite her power, she wasn't immortal nor was she superhuman, he hated to think of what they could do to her. Kaede broke the silence sensing his concern "Kikyo Onee-chan is no pushover, if she can handle that witch Tsubaki, she can handle these two thunder jerks" Kaede stated proudly. She'd realised Tsubaki's curse and tormenting her everyday life, then deflected her abilities when she sent the mask to kill her. She would be able to kick their butts no problem and come out unscathed.
Myoga swallowed "I… I wish to believe so, she is unlike any priestess I have ever witnessed before. But… these brothers kidnap charismatic women and devour them immediately" he confessed
"THEY'RE GONNA EAT KIKYO ONEE-CHAN!" Kaede screamed, her mask of confidence shattering into glass. She had thought that this would be a simple rescue mission not a hunt for time to rescue her sister from becoming dinner. She shot a hateful glare at Shippo, she would be sure he would learn a painful lesson for not mentioning this. He was the one who dragged them into this mess, he was the one who was dead set on getting revenge. If her big sister ended up dead because of him he could say goodbye to mercy.
InuYasha growled, like hell he was going to let them eat Kikyo, she wouldn't become prey to these sadists. Thunder demons could gain no power from fox demons, they had killed Shippo's father for sport, it was clear from Myoga's description. Kagome had killed that centipede demon in the past when it attempted to attack the village, before her death, she had slain countless demons though her training had been shaky. But she had still been slain by a demon that wore his face, the shapeshifter had lured her in and wounded her, tricking her into believing he betrayed her. He wouldn't allow Kikyo to befall the same fate. He would never forgive the person who killed Kagome in cold blood, turned the person who loved and trusted him most into his enemy. But she was long gone and at peace now, but her reincarnation Kikyo was now in danger. He wouldn't watch someone else die because of him "They can starve for all I care, they ain't devouring anyone on my watch" he growled. Thanks to Kagome's betrayal of him and sealing him to the tree, to her loving him and then promising she loved him as he was. Promising she loved both sides of him than calling him a monster, a murderer and pushing him away. Telling him she felt sick at the thought of mating with him and bearing his children. So many cruel words that had escaped her lips. He had locked away his heart and vowed to never trust another human or woman again. But thanks to Kikyo, he was learning to love himself again, trust humans again, her gentle patience and lonely heart, warming his own frozen heart.
Shippo blinked curiously, InuYasha had a hidden pain within him when it came to matters of love. It was clear he had loved someone before but it ended badly. But somehow, he felt a sense of affection towards that girl Kikyo. He had noticed that InuYasha was not only protective of Kaede, but he showed a devout concern over Kikyo. He behaved like her loyal watchdog, he had been in an irritable mood ever since her abduction. He blindly threw himself into danger despite this fight not involving him, all for the sake of a girl. Could it be… did he, was he in love with Kikyo? Kaede peered at Shippo, smirking in amusement, it seemed with all his naivety he was finally realising that her sister and InuYasha were into each other. He'd spent so long mouthing off that he had been ignorant of their relationship. "Caught on have you dumbass?" she teased, he'd finally caught on that InuYasha was head over heels for her sister? Why else would he be so pissed at her being kidnapped in the first place?
InuYasha sniffed the air, something was coming, something was going to hit them, the air was rumbling ominously and the air was thick with electricity, vibrating on a level that made his hair stand on end. Something was coming and nature itself was warning them to be wary of what was to come. The air was stirring and the clouds kept getting darker, he better to listen to his instincts than to rush blindly into danger and possibly harm themselves. If these brothers were as dangerous as they rumoured to be, rushing into danger would only fuel their plans and rob them of the opportunity to outwit them. He wasn't willing to risk children for the sake of winning a battle. A loud crash of thunder erupted behind them, illuminating the sky with its whitish-blue streaks. Erupting into the ground and shattering rocks into rubble in a mere matter of seconds. The destructive power of nature in a full demonic force, chaos swirling it its wake. InuYasha leapt out of the way while Kaede shrieked in surprise, closing her eyes as she hoped to shield herself from the blast. She had never been a fan of thunderstorms, often hiding under her blankets when Kikyo wasn't home. Hoping to hide from the frightening sounds of the rumbling clouds and flashes of light. However, when Kikyo knew a storm was coming, she would hold her sister tight, stroke her hair and soothe her fears. He dodged, moving to nearby some large boulders, Kaede still gripping him tightly, digging her nails into the soft material of his clothing like a baby animal. Nuzzling her nose into his back, hoping to comfort herself if not briefly. He averted his gaze upwards to see a figure looming over him, daring his attacker to try such an underhanded trick again. Then again he had grown up understanding demons rarely fought fairly, it was kill or be killed.
"So you were able to dodge one? Are you he? The bastard half breed known as InuYasha?" Hiten mocked in amusement. He never thought such a weakling would carry such wits, he would have thought his dirty human blood would have made him more moronic. However, he harboured some sense in him which would only make matters interesting in the long run. He would rather it be an eventful battle than over so quickly.
Kaede lifted herself higher on his back, glaring at the demon who had kidnapped her sister. His piercing eyes mocking them silently, he hoped to intimidate to amuse himself. He didn't know whom he was messing with, Kikyo had trained her under her tutelage, she was far more intelligent than he assumed of her. "What have you done to Kikyo Onee-chan?" she demanded fiercely, she wouldn't allow him to deter the answer she deserved.
Hiten raised his eyebrow, this girl also carried a spiritual aura though it was pitifully weak. It was like the glow of a candle slowly burning out under the last ounce of wax. She had such bravery in her despite such a small stature. So she was also a priestess, meaning she had to be the sister of the girl who resembled Kagome. Could she also be a reincarnation of a sibling belonging to the dead priestess, or by chance had Kagome's soul longed for another sibling? Either way that wasn't where his interest lay, he sensed the power of the jewel radiating from her somewhere. He would kill her and claim the fragments for himself, she had no need for them, for what did a mere human hope to achieve using the jewel's power? "Fear not, your beloved sibling is still whole, just as Manten found her" he reassured her mockingly
Manten appeared on a cloud gripping Kikyo who glared at him distastefully, hoping to separate herself as much as possible from the demon. It was clear she was being forced into obedience with blackmail. Perhaps threatening her with the safety of her sister? Upon seeing Inuyasha her expression softened, a look of relief and guilt appeared on her face. She clearly felt responsible for dragging them into a mess for which she was not to blame "InuYasha, gomen'nasai…." She trailed off bitterly
"KIKYO!" InuYasha called out in relief, he felt a wave of joy wash over him, his body felt lighter and he felt stronger. She was still alive, after hearing Myoga's tale of their history of devouring women, a sickening fear that she would fall prey as another victim terrified him. To know she could have perished alone waiting to be rescued, with the memory of her sister weighing on her conscience. He couldn't bear to consider such a reality.
Hiten chuckled in amusement, watching the pain of his half breed was indeed satisfying. How pathetic love was to its victims, turning them into gullible slaves who would follow their heart's affections for a mere female. He had been correct in his assumption that they harboured romantic feelings for each other. Though he never thought a half breed would become involved with a priestess of all people. "The expression on your face tells me my instincts are indeed true. Now hand over all your shards and your beloved girlfriend will live!" he raged
InuYasha's cheeks darkened with embarrassment, his face soon matching the crimson colour of his kimono. His brain slowly fading into shock as the words echoed through his mind. Did he just… call Kikyo his girlfriend? Though they carried a strong bond with each other, they hadn't labelled their relationship to one another. I mean, they were close, but they hadn't… they weren't. He hadn't expected anyone to assume that Kikyo was anything to him, he had become adapted to the company of others again. Remembering that he once enjoyed human interaction after fifty years of forced solitude. Kaede snorted in amusement but cupped her mouth to hide her laughter, attempting to avert more unwanted attention from the demon brothers. But this was just too amusing for her to ignore. If their fated destiny as lovers couldn't be any more obvious, she could sense their affections for each other. The way InuYasha's gaze followed her wherever she went, how he admired her figure and stared into her eyes for long hours. His gaze roaming to her lips. How his ears perked up whenever they returned to his world. Kikyo became flustered when the mention of InuYasha's name came up in conversation. She often spaced out reflection on when she would need to return to the feudal era to see him. She was even beginning to smile more around him, becoming shy and flustered in his presence. Now, these rogue demons could sense they were smitten, as everyone around them able to see it more than them?
Kikyo blushed, she had tried so hard to deter than she had feelings for InuYasha to protect him. She knew he had loved someone before her, Kagome had been dear to his heart. Despite her growing tenderness towards him, she had hoped to prevent him from experiencing further heartache because of her. She wouldn't act as bait for him, she would do everything within her power to prevent herself from burdening him. She loved him dearly and wanted him safe, her beloved InuYasha. "I… wait…. Girlfriend…." InuYasha stammered, he hadn't even used that description for Kagome. Kagome had been his partner, his companion, for a brief time even a considered mate. He'd felt such a deep love for her which had become a painful memory. Just remembering her face filled him with anger and bitterness, resenting for how easily she had turned against him. So he didn't want to consider what his relationship with Kikyo had become, in case this happiness was stolen from him again. He just wanted to enjoy being loved by someone again.
Kikyo gazed at him intently, an expression of smouldering tenderness on her face. She could see the pain and fear in his eyes, she hated to put him in this conversation. Knowing this was unearthing memories of Kagome, how she too had probably been used as a bargaining chip and bait to hurt InuYasha in the past. "I… I revealed I trust you, we are companions, I never divulged we were anything more…" she babbled. She didn't want to lie to him, she wanted to treasure her secret feelings for him. What they felt was between them, a silent love song that only they could hear.
Manten grinned in amusement, ruffling Kikyo's head mockingly "A shy one eh?..." he teased. The heat behind her gaze, the way her luminous brown eyes darkened with such deep passion just from looking at him. She had allowed her heart to be swayed by a half-demon, yet was too ashamed to admit it aloud. He should feel blessed to have such a pretty mortal woman pining for him, he felt jealous of such devotion. Kikyo winced in disgust as she edged away from him, she knew the younger demon brother desired her. He enjoyed seeing her fear and discomfort, revelling in it. This was all a game to him. She felt her skin tingle with repulse just from a mere touch.
InuYasha glared, had that slimy lizard laid his hands on her?! He could see the way his eyes glowed and leered at her discomfort. He was enjoying seeing her suffer, but she wouldn't have gotten into this situation if Shippo hadn't attempted to rob them or throw a tantrum. "You shouldn't have stuck your neck out for that bratty fox cub!" he snapped. Her kindness and empathy to others often caused her to neglect her wellbeing and find herself in situations like these.
"Forgive me, I believed I could deter his selfish actions by comforting him" she called back apologetically. She knew the pain of tragically losing a loved one, in this case, a parent deeply scarred one's psyche as they developed into an adult. She knew Shippo was resentful at being forcefully made an orphan. She had hoped to connect with him and soothe his broken spirit. But she had been caught in the crossfire instead.
InuYasha sighed, he knew she meant well but at times she could afford to be selfish. She spent her life raising Kaede, she didn't have to babysit a fox cub too "Did he touch you or anything?" he demanded. If these demons sought beautiful women, it was fair to assume they attempted to seduce or wed them too. Like hell, he was going to let Kikyo befall such a traumatizing fate.
Hiten hummed, he did show concern over the mortal female which was enough to convince him. His jealousy at seeing his younger brother touch her so familiarly was further proof. His relief at seeing her alive meant he was expecting her to have perished. "Well, it appears you do not harbour the shards but that human brat beside you does…." He trailed off. A human brat such as herself couldn't possibly comprehend the jewel's power, such a thing was wasted on her. Kaede backed away fearfully, everything in her instinct told her to run. She didn't like the look in the demons eye whatsoever, she was no match for their power. Did they plan to kill her to rob the jewels from her person? She could only outrun them for so long. Hiten dove towards them spear in hand, grinning devilishly, he loved a good chase, watching her cower in fear before realising her demise was fast approaching "And so you have sealed your fates!" he cackled. Kaede screamed in fear, rushing away from the demon fearfully, her feet slamming against the rubble. Her eyes spiking with tears as the reality that she was now a target loomed over her head.
InuYasha glared, no way in hell was he slicing down an innocent human for jewel shards. She was no older than Kagome's brother Souta had been, a child who also clung to him and admired him. The same child who had been slain by Kagome's killer. He wasn't going to allow another child to be killed by a demon so mercilessly "Oh no ya don't!" he growled. InuYasha pulled Tetsuigha from its sheath, aiming it at the older brother. At a time like this, he felt blessed his father had bestowed him with such a fearsome weapon. Allowing him to hold his own against such demons.
"Lightning spear!" Hiten yelled ferociously, aiming the point at InuYasha. Did he believe he could hold his own against himself? Did he even know whom he was facing? What kind of fool was he?
"Tetsuigha!" InuYasha raged defiantly, summoning the sword from its sheath. He remembered how Myoga explained his father forged this sword to protect his mother. So long as he was protecting humans, protecting those he loved, such as Kaede and Kikyo, the blade would remain loyal to him. The blade responded to his heart, his soul, the deeper his passion to protect humans, the stronger the sword's power. InuYasha blocked the point of the spear with his blade, the blade slicing close to his skin but not wounding his flesh or drawing blood. Hiten was naïve to judge his strength for purely being a half breed. He wasn't getting near Kaede so long as he could help it
"Ha, you think you can hold me off half breed?!" Hiten mocked, though he was a stubborn one indeed, this was merely a distraction to prove his self-worth. This battle would be over soon enough, no half breed could ever hope to match the power of a pureblood. By nature, half breeds were lesser than a pureblood, in genes and power.
InuYasha growled he was really getting sick of people calling him that. His brother had always reminded him of his inferiority since his birth, mocking him for his existence and that he meant nothing to him. That their relations were merely by word but not by blood, revealing that he carried no affections for his only kin. Now he was being mocked by a cocky lightening demon? InuYasha swung his blade, sending Hiten flying backwards into the air effortlessly, throwing him off and stunning him at his strength. Just who did he think he was running his mouth to? Hiten blinked he hadn't expected such strength from a half breed, but what demon had copulated with a human to give him such power? He had sensed such a scent from a half breed, never known a half breed with such ears. There was something offputting about him, something mysterious. What were the origins of his parenthood? InuYasha growled, finally he had shut up even if it was for a brief second. He knew these demons weren't going to give up easily and wanted to hunt down Kaede and Shippo for sport. He'd seen demons ravage villages, tear families apart, corrupt powerful lords and more. He'd seen how sneaky demons could be and how far they would go to achieve their goals. Rare were demons to have compassion for humans. This was all a game to them
"You certainly are a stubborn one, but you are amusing all the same" Hiten gloated. He would certainly get his achieved goal of an entertaining fight with him. Did he really hope to defeat him and rescue his woman? Was all of this rage to prove himself or caused by his affections for the girl? Watching his reactions was certainly intriguing.
InuYasha growled, he was always mocked for being a half breed, the same bullshit he'd been hearing since his birth. The repetitive insults, slurs and bullying that half breeds had to endure for being misfits and outcasts. To be so different, so painfully alone, something only half breeds knew. His father being a demon general had brute strength on a level with a god, though he was only a half breed, he still harboured great power within him. "Plenty of demons have mocked me, pretty boy, none of them crawled away thinking I was amusing" InuYasha growled. He made sure the last thing they ever saw was their demise as he ripped them apart for even attempting to mock him.
Hiten smiled "Enough games then, I'll end this with my thunderbolt" he cackled, diving at InuYasha with his spearhead aimed at him. He would run out of stamina soon enough, he could only last for so long. InuYasha swiped his blade at Hiten, blocking his attacks, he was playing dirty and he knew it, never allowing him to get a full hit in. This would always be a one-sided fight to Hiten, seeing how far he could push him before he gave up. "Block my attacks halfbreed or perish!" Hiten mocked. Did he think he could win? His speed and agility were far superior to his ever hoped to be. InuYasha growled the attacks were pure lightning and thus his blade being a steel fang was becoming a conductor. The blade singing with a high pitched wave, sparks dancing from the blade in small flashes of light. He wasn't so naïve to ignore the risks, he need only touch it and he would be fried alive.
Kaede hid behind a boulder timidly, her heart hammering in her chest as she observed the battle from a distance. She wanted to cheer them on, she wanted to help, but she knew to risk such a thing would be foolish. The demons would only need to find her and she would be roasted alive. It was like nature itself was crashing together, an unstoppable force of pure energy in all it's uncontrollable power. Even with her spiritual power, she lacked the full ability to deflect their attacks, for she was still just a trainee. Her barriers would only last so long with her inexperience, gripping the jewel shard bottle tightly. Her sister was safe but still being held hostage but there was nothing she could do. To run into the battlefield blindly crying for her sister would make her a target. She couldn't afford to selfishly act as a distraction. She had never felt so alone, so helpless, the reality of being a child while the adults took responsibility.
She peered at InuYasha anxiously he was putting up a brave fight but he was endangering himself by fighting lightning attacks with a steel blade. InuYasha had become skilled at wielding his father's blade, though he was still somewhat of a newbie. This was his first serious battle wielding it against another's enemy. Kikyo was still being held hostage by the younger brother too, hoping that she would watch InuYasha perish helplessly before meeting her fate. Shippo hid close behind her, clinging to her shoulder and watching the fight, he was shaking terribly. Possibly being reminded of the attack he faced before his father was killed by their hands. Kikyo was still trapped upon the cloud with Manten and Hiten was fighting ruthlessly against InuYasha "Onee-chan" Kaede whimpered tearfully.
Kikyo watched helplessly from above while Hiten continued to swipe at InuYasha mercilessly. She felt so proud of his growth as a warrior, proving the blade had indeed been his from the beginning. Focusing his love for his mother, empathy for humans and affections for herself and Kaede into the sword. But that didn't make him invincible, for the sword was made of steel though demonic in nature. She had been watching closely as Hiten continued to bombard InuYasha. Though a powerful blade, Tetsuigha would continue to absorb the electricity until it would electrocute InuYasha and kill him. Kaede and Shippo had taken cover behind a boulder, shielding them from the fight. She knew that her sister was Hiten's real target in all of this, InuYasha was just a distraction to prove his authority. Soon enough he would sniff her out and come for her life. She couldn't continue to sit here and act helpless, she needed to aid them.
"Hee, what fun? Wouldn't you agree my dear?" Manten crooned in amusement, flashing his pointed white teeth. Watching her lover act as a brave knight against his older brother, hopelessly losing the battle. Did she still believe in him? That he would be able to rescue her? To watch her hope fade away was so amusing.
Kikyo glared at him, he was enjoying this, this was a performance of the demon hierarchy. This was about them putting InuYasha down and shaming him for being a half breed. They had no reason to fight him, they just wanted some fun before stealing the shards. Like the sick demons they were, they enjoyed tormenting the weak for fun. She wouldn't forgive such malicious cruelty, she would assure they would suffer painfully for hurting InuYasha. She was not some weakling they could manipulate and abuse. She needed only to trust her powers, follow her heart and focus. She slowly began to muster her strength, summoning her spiritual powers to her hands, focusing all of her energy into concentrating a ball-like form. Until now she had merely used her arrows as a tool, but surely she was capable of more "You fight with cowardice, using underhanded means to win a battle. You have no honour" she growled. Manten raised his head to her, amazed at the audacity of this girl, she berated him and dared to summon his rage. He was met by Kikyo's glowing hands and enraged expression, a true terror running through his blood. Kikyo focused all of her purification power into her hands, her skin tingling with power, like a human conductor. Her dark eyes burning with rage, she would seek revenge for them harming her lover. Blasting a spiritual aura at Hiten like a beam, Hiten screamed in agony as he was blinded and burned by the spiritual energy focused on him. His skin burned, his vision was blinded and he couldn't see, soon he tumbled off the cloud blindly. Falling to the ground below with a loud scream.
Hiten watched in awe as his brother plummeted to the ground with a voice of pain, like a small rodent under the mercy of a feline. The radiating spiritual wave pouring from this girl made his skin sing with pain, echoing in waves from her body uncontrollably. Had she been withholding this in the hopes of using it as a trump card against them when they were unaware? She was indeed sneakier than they had given her credit for. She held such tremendous power unlike anything he had ever felt before, this woman was enamoured by a half breed? His brother had truly chosen the wrong woman to seduce.
InuYasha was filled with a sense of pride, even without an arrow to focus her power to such extremes. To others she was just a girl, a pretty face or a stranger, to him she was the most amazing woman he had ever encountered. Kikyo was still a formidable girl with great potential, she was slowly finding the road to the person she would become. He wondered if his father knew that one day he would be protecting her with his sword. That he would follow his footsteps and become involved with a human female to which the sword would respond to. Suddenly, the cloud below Kikyo dissipated, leaving her floating in midair, realising that the ugly demon had been keeping it present. A chill ran down his spine as he realised what was to happen to her. She flipped her head briefly in the direction of InuYasha helplessly, her eyes crying out for help. "KIKYO!" he screamed, she was so close within his reach that he could dive into the air and catch her. Yet she felt so far away that his arms couldn't hope to reach her grasp soon enough. His stomach twisting in knots as he watched from a distance.
Hiten smirked, swiping his spear at InuYasha in amusement, to watch as his love fell to her doom was priceless. "You would attempt to escape this fight for a mere female, I think not" he gloated. A human female was not worth abandoning their fight for, perhaps her death would motivate him to fight better. But he admired his courage, attempting to run to share his last moments with his woman.
InuYasha was pushed back helplessly with his attack, knowing he was hoping to bait him further. He wanted to see what he was capable of if Kikyo was placed further into harm's way. Detesting that he had to be forced to watch Kikyo plummet to the ground while he was withheld by this arrogant demon "Kikyo! Kuso! I'll save you!" he yelled frantically. He would push this guy back as far as he possibly could, running to her side in a heartbeat.
Kikyo felt a chill run down her spine as she felt herself falling towards the ground, her eyes shining glassily with unshed tears. The reality of her danger hitting her heavily, gravity pulling her to earth at inhuman speeds. At this height, she would undoubtedly be hurt or even killed. Nobody to catch her, nothing to prevent her fall, this would end badly for her. She closed her eyes tearfully, feeling her eyes sting as she awaited the inevitable. Suddenly, she felt herself land atop something soft and bouncy, her fall broken by a surprise intruder. Had she landed on the beast's body? No, it couldn't be, she was too far from the ground. The texture was similar to that of a marshmallow, stunning her. She opened her eyes to find herself atop a giant pink orb that looked oddly familiar "Yume? A cloud?" she muttered in shock.
"Kikyo one-chan" a familiar voice responded with relief, she had seen her plummeting to the ground and couldn't stand by from her hiding place. She had dragged Shippo with her, willingly throwing herself into harm's way to save her sister. InuYasha couldn't afford to be distracted from Hiten's attention at this present time. So she would do what she could to protect her sister, even if her powers weren't as strong.
Kikyo opened her eyes to find Kaede perched beside her with tearful eyes, throwing her arms around her sister with delight as she hugged her happily. She wrapped her arms affectionately around her sibling with much delight. How she had missed this familiar warmth. Fearing she may never see her family again, however, how had Kaede managed to save her? "B… but how?" Kikyo stammered in confusion. She admired how brave Kaede was proving herself throughout all of this.
Kaede sighed, her sister was indeed owed an explanation "I convinced that jerky fox to save you since he owes you one" she explained poking the shape beneath them. For all the trouble he caused this was only part of the payback. He had better be cautious around her for a while for bullying her sister and InuYasha so much. He would have a lot to prove, that he was more than the brat he portrayed himself as when they first met.
Kikyo blinked, she recalled the demon fox could change its shape, albeit not very well yet. Perhaps with more training and focus his shapes could become stronger and more defined. Everyone had to start from somewhere but she was nonetheless grateful for his help "I see, thank you for catching me". Kaede handed her sister her bow and arrow to which she took gratefully, glad her sister had protected her weapons for her. At last, she now had the upper hand in the battle.
Kikyo wrapped her arms around Shippo and Kaede protectively, sensing them trembling within her grasp, the fear weighing upon them. They had done well to keep themselves out of harm's way until now. She had hoped they would work together soon enough, which to her relief they had. Hopefully, in the future, Kaede would continue to act as a good influence on the fox cub. Shippo had lost his way and could trust Kaede to act as a teacher, helping him to heal and grow. Hiding defensively behind the large boulder hoping to act as a shield, preventing them from the worst of the attacks. Unbridled rage flowed through him empowering him with every passing moment. Even stone could only last so long against such energy. Without a doubt, Manten would want revenge for his humiliation, her manipulation and trickery. Everything she had done to ensure her survival was now being used against her. She couldn't avoid her responsibility and she couldn't allow InuYasha to shoulder the responsibility of the battle on his own. She knew that she had to subdue her fears until they were in the clear. She needed to protect the ones she loved, the ones relying on her for help. All she could do was share words of wisdom in hopes of aiding them in the future, but also teaching them to be cautious and trust her. She knelt towards Kaede and Shippo solemnly, placing her hands on their shoulders, taking a deep breath as she prepared herself for battle.
"Kaede, I know this is frightening for you, but you harbour great power within you. You need only develop and trust in it, I need you to form a barrier and hide here until I come for you" she warned. Kaede was her sister whom she had trained herself, but she couldn't take all the responsibility. Kaede was indeed a fast learner with great potential in her future. Comparing herself to Kikyo was only affecting her, weakening her power from growing. But she knew her sister had a good future ahead of her.
She then turned to Shippo sternly "I am trusting you with my sister's safety, you must protect her with everything you have, if something should happen to her I will not forgive you" she warned. She knew Shippo was cowardly out of the trauma he faced, but he needed to overcome that by protecting those close to him. He needed to train, to focus his mind and body and mature as a person. Her sister trusted him despite his previous trickery, that was something he shouldn't take for granted. Kindness came in many forms. Shippo nodded nervously, he knew better than to incur the wrath of this woman. Kikyo sighed, stepping out from behind the boulder to face her fate, she couldn't deter this any longer. Whether she lived or she died was up to fate, but she knew her loved ones were relying on her. The danger was now becoming a constant companion to her, something she would just have to accept, despite her reservations.
Manten growled fiercely, he would kill all of them, all this for some pesky jewel shards? Though he had been foolish to underestimate them, they had not played fairly in battle. Waiting till his guard had been lowered and striking him with surprise attacks. That pesky girl, that damned woman and that little fox brat. He would be sure to make a new pelt from the little beast, he had lost the shards to that demon fox. His hair had been lessened due to their powers and now he had been wounded by her spiritual power. He screamed fiercely, blasting the ground to ashes with his breath, screaming in anger for them to face him in battle. They would pay for humiliating him like this
"MANTEN!" Kikyo yelled in volatile rage. She would hide no longer if he wished to face her head on she wouldn't hide from him. She would fearlessly face her enemy and protect the weak. He would pay for what he had done, the pain and the suffering he had caused to so many innocent lives. How many human women had he abducted in hopes of turning into medicine for his benefit? How many girls had fallen victim to their plans? How many humans had been slain or devoured to empower themselves? Her dark hair flowed behind her menacingly, her eyes cold and pitiless as she stared him down. He didn't know whom he was reckoning with, but he would soon be reminded of this. She gripped her bow tightly as she stepped towards him "You have threatened my sister, you murdered an innocent life, you stole that cubs family and you used me for your sick desires. You will die here! This is your last" she growled fiercely. He attempted to roast her sister and shippo alive using his lightning blasts over his vanity. He tried to steal the shards before chasing her down like his personal prey. He had robbed a kitsune before using him as pelt, he would pay for those he had slain for the shards. Taking Shippo's father's life unnecessarily to gain the shards, using him as a trophy to mock his son. Kidnapping her, nearly eating her and the thousands that had perished at their hands.
She closed her eyes, breathing deeply, focusing all of her energy, listening to her instincts as she felt her aura flow from her. "Lady Kagome, you lost your family to a demon, long ago they perished with you. Please, let me protect my sister" she prayed. Kagome had died protecting those she loved, she had been adored by her followers for her kindness. Now she needed to accept her fate as her reincarnation, that she had to fix her past self's mistakes. Kikyo raised her bow, her gaze unfaltering as she aimed her bow in the direction of the demon. She wouldn't miss her target this time, she wouldn't let her arrow falter, her heart would guide her arrow. She closed her eyes, mustering all of her power, a pink aura began to radiate from her body, surrounding her like a cloud of smoke, the air around her purified, her body vibrating with power. The arrow in her bow began to glow brightly, a large circle encasing her and the arrow, like a bubble.
Hiten and InuYasha stared in awe at the storm of power flowing from Kikyo, their skin singing as they sensed the spiritual wall flowing from her. They had never seen anything so frighteningly powerful before. She released her arrow, shooting through the air like a bullet, the trail of power flowing from the weapon brightening the sky like a shooting star. The arrow streaming through the air towards its target. Purifying the demonic waves in the air as it flew through the sky. It pierced Manten through the head causing him to scream in pain, clawing at his head frantically. The arrow purifying his body from the inside out, his demonic aura weakening instantly. The shards in his head dislodging and dropping to the floor with an echoing clink. Manten froze, his body burned as though flames ran through his skin, he had been correct that assuming she was Kagome's reincarnation, however, he power compared to her predecessor was far more frightening. He stared at his hands as they began to dissipate like sand. This girl, this woman had killed him, what fearsome power she held.
Kaede stared in awe and admiration, her heart filled with love and pride for her sister. She never thought such a thing would ever be possible. She couldn't believe it, Kikyo had defeated that gross amphibious pervert demon with her arrow, she had focused the strongest amount of her power into one shot. Killing him instantly and removing the shards from him at the same time, she was the coolest person she knew. That power may have come from the combined trust of Kikyo and Kagome's soul, but the power she had awakened was all her own.
Shippo stared in awe, she had killed him, without hesitation or self-doubt whatsoever. She had killed Manten with one swift move by simply releasing her arrow. The energy flowing from her was inhuman, her rage burned like a storm, unlike anything he had ever witnessed before. She had used a huge wave of power simply to protect them and kill the youngest thunder beast.
Kikyo sighed heavily, approaching the dying demon slowly her gaze unfaltering. He had paid the price for his crimes and his victims could now know closure. She loomed over him with a cold glare, her hair gently blowing in the gentle breeze. Sensing the fear in his eyes during his last moments. She knelt to collect the shards that had fallen to the ground as she watched him perish. "I despise sadists who torture the weak, shall you suffer eternally in hell for making a child an orphan and slaying innocent lives" she mocked. She then slowly began to pace back to her sister and Shippo, she could add these three shards to her collection and purify them
Hiten could only stare in disbelief, the echoing silence ringing through the battlefield. The weight of his loss feeling as though the world around him was collapsing. So silent you could hear the storm clouds rumble, the rocks shift and the wind itself. This girl, this woman, the reincarnation of that damned priestess Kagome had slain his beloved baby brother in one fell swoop. She had seduced her brother earning his trust, making him believe she was incapable of utilizing her powers. Led them to their enemies and then killed him once his guard was lowered. Now she had collected the remaining jewel shards from his corpse, alongside the pelt of the fox demon.
InuYasha was in awe, Kikyo was proving herself in such a short period that she had superior mental control over her powers, in key with her mind and body. Her abilities only fueled by her respect for Kagome and her love for those around her. In had taken Kagome months to harness her powers and perfect her archery, in what Kagome had taken half her life to perfect, Kikyo had proven in a month.
"MANTEN!" Hiten screamed angrily, diving towards his brother's corpse desperately. He could feel his life force leaking from him like smoke, fading before he could reach him. They would pay for this, they would pay for murdering his baby brother.
Kikyo could sense his rage, his demonic essence had been fueled by the grief of losing his brother. But this was his Karma, this was what he deserved for all the cruelty he had forced others to endure. Perhaps if he had been kinder, revealing his affections for his brother sooner, he wouldn't have been such a blind fool. She quickly escaped towards the boulder in which her sister and Shippo were hiding, now she could return his father's pelt to him
"Papa! Papa!" Shippo sobbed, nuzzling his nose against the pelt of his father, the memory of his embrace filling his mind. He was still so soft and gentle, but his warmth had gone, everything that had been his father was robbed from him. He wished he could have said goodbye but he supposed that was merely his regrets.
Kaede sat nearby a sympathetic look on her face, holding her tongue as she watched the bitter tears spill from his cheeks. Wishing she could do more to comfort his wounded soul. This should have been a touching reunion, only Shippo was holding his father's skinned body. His essence, his life, his soul, they were all gone, having been used as a trophy by his killers for so long. The happy, peaceful life he had treasured with bliss had been robbed from him. Kikyo knelt beside him as he wept, now he could know some peace, at last, his mourning could continue, living with his father's memory. His growing up wouldn't be easy, living without his father, but he wasn't alone. He could have closure for his father's death, but it wasn't over yet.
InuYasha dashed towards Kikyo frantically, his amber eyes wide and his heart hammering in his chest. He could feel himself shaking as his emotions stormed through him, was she hurt? Was she harmed? God forbid they had laid their hands on her. He felt sick with fear like his world fell apart for a second "Kikyo? Daijobudesuka?" he asked abruptly. She was still here wasn't she? His brain hadn't formed some illusion to soften the blow of grief.
Kikyo averted her gaze upward, she shifted, though she hadn't lied she had told the thunder brothers some depth into their relationship. She had revealed she was important to InuYasha, that she was his companion. But he has assumed that connection meant they were romantically involved, she had behaved like such a fool. InuYasha had carried a hardened heart all these centuries to protect himself, so when he began to soften she had revealed a truth that wasn't hers to share. "G.. Gomen, I got myself kidnapped and caused an unnecessary battle. We wouldn't be here if not for my foolishness" she mumbled.
InuYasha blinked, all of her selfless actions had protected them. She'd protected a fox cub, hidden the jewel with her sister, then just slain a demon in cold blood using her arrow, deflecting his attacks and even using her aura as a weapon. If anything she had proven her strength and capabilities, showing the woman she would become. His feelings for her were growing deeper by the minute. He sighed heavily, he just hoped she would understand how important she was in time. How precious she was to those around her, how irreplaceable she was. "You needn't apologize, you were doing what you thought was right. You weren't to know that Manten was hiding in the rushes and got yourself kidnapped because Shippo was being a brat" he soothed.
Hiten sobbed bitterly, his brother was dead, his life had ended wickedly and he'd run blindly into danger. His body was now ash, his body was now blowing away in the wind, so he was nothing more than a memory. That woman's poison arrow had tainted him and killed him in seconds. Her purification power radiating everywhere, cleansing their domain. Stealing the shards from his body while leaving him to die a cruel fate "Dame!, Manten! You can't be dead! My kin!" he sobbed.
Kikyo ignored the sobs of the demon, if he had truly treasured his brother more he would have been kinder. He wouldn't have been abusive, so cold and demeaning, helping him with his problems instead of seeking power purely by himself. He abused his brother and treated him as a bottomfeeder as shown by their interactions. Only by losing him did he realise his value, irony and tragedy in itself.
Hiten plunged his claws into his brother's body, rummaging through his flesh for what he needed, he would need his brothers strength to win this battle. He couldn't face them alone, tearing his brother's heart from his chest, holding it close to his body protectively. "My brother, with this I swear we shall be one for eternity" he sobbed, he would make sure this moment was never forgotten. Hiten opened his jaws, plunging his teeth into the fleshy muscle as he consumed his brothers heart greedily.
Kikyo cupped her jaw as she withheld the urge to vomit at the sight before her, attempting to disconnect herself from reality to block it from her mind. The stench of blood filled the air, the tang of the metal invading her senses "His heart, he's consuming his brother's heart" she cried mentally. Was this how far he would go when desperate? Combining their powers to win so he could claim the rest of the jewel shards? Demons were relentless in their pursuit for power, absorbing the powers of the past generation to become stronger.
"He be ingesting the demonic essence of his brother, to absorb his powers" Myoga blurted out, he was playing dirty indeed but this method would indeed work with dangerous consequences. Due to his powers being fresh and unrestrained, they would be far more volatile than his previous strength.
Kaede panicked, this couldn't bode well for them, though Kikyo had evened the score this had only made matters worse "You mean he's even more powerful?" she shivered. Would they even get out of this alive? She knew doubt was never a good thing but she was fearing that a silver lining wasn't within grasp. Even at Kikyo's strength she couldn't possibly survive this guy.
InuYasha frowned, peering at Myoga bitterly, just how useless was he going to prove himself to be? He couldn't have warned them before his brother decided to use his body as a weapon? "So now you wish to share us with this information, where were you when we needed you?" he huffed. He'd been avoiding trouble all this time at the cost of their loss. He'd have tried an attack that would wipe them both out and save them the trouble of dealing with this guy now.
"You didn't warn me of their consumption of women and their kidnapping" Kikyo added resentfully, luckily she had managed to convince them to let her live. Using her cunning intellect to get them to escort her from their hideout. But she had ran into danger blindly which resulted in her being separated from the others. She could have easily perished at their hands had she not woken up or been able to deflect their attacks. She could have become one of many victims to the brothers hands.
"Your lack of observation and fending for yourself has landed us in danger numerous times already? Ya think you could be more clear on the danger?" InuYasha roared, For all Myoga was supposed to be wise and a retainer for his father, he could be rather useless at times. Suddenly a blast of energy hit the boulder in which they used for protection. Kikyo's shield around their hiding place deflected the blast, roasting the rock with a charred scarring, her spiritual power coming in handy for moments like these yet again. InuYasha and Kikyo peered around the rockside cautiously, they couldn't keep hiding forever and attempting escape would be impossible. A wave of thunder burst towards the boulder, taking them by surprise yet again. InuYasha pulled Kikyo back, wrapping his arms around her protectively as the blast collided with their hiding place sending shock waves, covering her from the debris. Kaede and Shippo covered their heads as they bit back screams of panic as Hiten attacked their hiding place, they sure had done a decent job of getting his attention and angering him.
Hiten loomed from the newly formed crevice, his eyes glowing blood red with rage and demonic aura, blood dripping from his lips from the remains of his brother's heart. he wanted vengeance and he wouldn't rest until this debt was paid. This half demon had made a fool of him and his girlfriend had destroyed his clan "You murdered my brother, my beloved kin has perished at your hands. You will rue the day you wronged me" he roared.
InuYasha swallowed impatiently, Myoga hadn't been wrong about consuming his brother's energy. The Tetsigha had already been affected by the electric absorption of the lightening attacks. Though his blade could inherit the powers of others, some could be dangerous to him. The power that radiated from him was now stronger than ever before, the danger levels were frighteningly high. "Kikyo, you gotta protect these kids, after you slew his brother, he's gonna come for your head" he warned. He wouldn't stop until they were all defeated, but he would make her and InuYasha suffer the most for his own satisfaction.
Kikyo shivered, she had expected as much for killing his brother, but he had deserved the death he faced, she didn't regret her decision. She had rid the world of a pest that caused nothing but terror to the domain he resided in. She knew her sister would heed her commands and remain shielded from this fight so long as she told her to. The only way they would win this battle was together, Manten had lost his rationality and had fallen into a beast nature. "I won't leave you, you can't face this alone" she responded defiantly, if he expected her to run she refused. InuYasha hesitated, he couldn't lose her, he wouldn't let her die here, she had a home, she had family, she didn't have anything here waiting for her aside from him. Kikyo gripped his hands, squeezing tightly and gazing into his golden eyes solemnly "I have placed a barrier around this boulder deflecting the attacks of Hiten, he cannot harm them. I have asked Shippo to protect Kaede while she uses her power. I can handle this, we can face him together" she reassured him. InuYasha stared at her in disbelief, his eyes wide and his voice lost in his throat, her voice and her words soothed his heart and cleared his mind. She encouraged him to do what was right and see what was most important. He didn't know what to make of Kikyo sometimes, her battle face never faltered, she never ran, she never hid, she never obeyed and she never showed fear. Her eyes so full of courage, restlessness and tenderness, for a brief moment, he saw Kagome in her eyes, the same woman who never gave up.
Hiten loomed in the sky irritably, the sky bursting with power as his energy flowed in waves, he knew they were playing games and hoping to escape him. He wouldn't allow it, he would wipe them off the face of the earth. "Come out Halfbreed, you and your woman will pay for my brother's demise" he roared. They would feel his pain, the hurt they had caused him. InuYasha leapt out from behind the rock like a bullet, his silver hair flowing behind him, they would only get one shot at this and they couldn't mess it up. They needed to trust each other and focus their abilities into unison to make it work. Kikyo gripped tightly to his back, her quiver and bow in tow, they would act as bait to lure him out and deter him from killing Shippo and Kaede. "There you are, now fight me you beast!" Hiten demanded
"InuYasha, maybe if I can get close enough, I may use the same attack on the elder brother" Kikyo suggested frantically. She could focus her spiritual power and turn him to ash. She knew he wouldn't be immune to such strength and he couldn't be prepared for it, though she didn't know how to summon it she knew she was capable. She wanted to make sure they avoided getting too close to him.
InuYasha clicked his teeth "It may have worked on baby brother, but he has more power now, I doubt another arrow would kill the guy" he growled. Thanks to doubling his power, Hiten was stronger than his brother ever had been. His rage burned brightly and it seemed to only make him stronger. But like his rage his attacks were unpredictable and unfocused, which would put them on the risk of being hit by an attack. He wouldn't run in blindly and risk getting Kikyo hurt.
"Maybe not, but perhaps together you may form an attack" Myoga suggested, they were so close to each other and harboured such faith in each others abilities. Perhaps this was the answer to winning this battle.
"You!" they both yelled in unison
"Lord InuYasha's blade has acted as a conductor for Hiten's attacks until now, why not reflect the power at him. If Lady Kikyo's arrow was enough to dislodge the shards and kill Manten, maybe together you may provide a powerful attack" Myoga suggested.
Kikyo blinked, what he was suggesting was not false, in fact it was the most rational thing she had heard him say in a while. But she didn't know if her power would create such a thing "I… perhaps, but… I'm still…" she trailed off. Her shield had been formed from the love for her sister and the desire to protect her. But she couldn't rely on that to constantly win a battle. There had been times when she had been caught off guard by it all.
InuYasha sighed, he hated it when Kikyo doubted herself "Kikyo, you may harbour Kagome's essence in you, you share a soul with her. But you have the power of your own, you've taken down a toad with hot water, a mask in your own home and now you've killed a lizard by pure willpower. If anyone can kill him it's you" he reassured her. Yes, Kikyo and Kagome were one in the same, he wouldn't deny that. But Kikyo had a life, a power that belonged to her, which had been inside her since birth. Her existance wasn't purely based around Kagome, she was her own person. Kikyo blushed, she knew how difficult it was for him to talk about Kagome, how much she had meant to him. But he was praising her, he had sensed her self doubt and combatted it with exactly what she needed to hear. This felt like a dream, InuYasha was praising her? Did he believe in her?
Myoga sniffed "How touching", these two were truly made for each other. After Lady Kagome had passed and their relationship was torn apart caused by her hatred of him. He believed his master would remain in solitude for the rest of his life. But here, he had found his soulmate in the lady Kikyo.
InuYasha growled, this wasn't the time to get mushy "Not now flea, we got a job to do".
Kaede peered around the rock frantically, she had to see what would unfold but she knew she was possibly tempting fate. Hiten could spot them and send an attack their way to unsettle Kikyo. He knew her weaknesses and may use them against her, her sister was now out on the battlefield, she was to face the elder brother head on. She had trusted her to keep up a shield to protect herself and Shippo while they waited out the storm. But part of her didn't know if she would be able to keep her promise to Kikyo, she was still a newbie. The most she could do was some minor medicinal abilities, minor purification and weak barriers. Kikyo was about to face a demon and possibly face death, yet here she was hiding like a coward, she was curled up in a ball close to tears.
Shippo sensed her fear, her conflict, she was watching her sister risk her life but she still had faith and tried to aid her as best she could. She had yelled back at Hiten and dismissed his threats and mockery towards her. She was the bravest, most strong-willed girl he had met in his life, she had confronted and slapped him for abandoning her sister and made him face his fears. She made him realise his cowardice and how avoiding responsibility deterred personal growth, he shyly reached across to take her hand in his own making her jump. "D… Daijobu, y… your Onee-chan will be ok, she has InuYasha to protect her. She's stronger than she looks" he stammered shakily.
Kaede stared at him in surprise, this had to be the first kind thing Shippo had said to her, he was trying to soothe her spirits knowing how helpless she felt. Yes he was a brat and a pain in her butt, he'd mostly sulked and complained for the time they had met. But he was a kid, maybe seven years old, only four years younger than herself, of course he was immature. He was trying to comfort her, he was trying to reassure her, something she needed right now. She squeezed his hand supportively, averting her gaze and her cheeks flushed lightly "A… Arigato Shippo, I appreciate that" she muttered.
InuYasha leapt through the air like a bullet, averting and dodging Hiten attacks like a madman, clicking his teeth every time a hit even came close. His screaming voice and rage, bellowing for them to face him like a man rather than a coward. There was no way he was going to take the bait and use a foolish move to give him the satisfaction he craved. Kikyo gripped tightly to his back, he could feel her hands trembling with fear "Kikyo, I can deflect him with wind scar, but that attack you used on Manten, I need you to focus it on Hiten, the same power you used on Manten" he yelled.
Kikyo swallowed, could she do it? Could she kill him? She hadn't known that she could do such a thing, the power had just flowed through her naturally, her rage and love for her sister had empowered her. But she couldn't focus on such negativity all the time, it wasn't healthy, she reflected on Kagome. She shared Kagome's spiritual essence, she could form a shield around herself. If she could focus her barrier around them both and then shoot the arrow they could kill him "Hai, InuYasha hashiru" she yelled.
"You can't hide from me, you will pay for what you have done, my brother's blood is on your hands" he growled. Did they think he wouldn't be able to sniff them out with his superior scent? He had all new powers within him and he was ready to show them just what he was capable of. He would wipe them clean from the earth and be rid of their filth.
"Use the wind tunnel after I fire, the accumulated demonic and spiritual power should finish him" Kikyo warned. She had to believe that this would work, that Myoga hadn't failed them. This was only her second serious battle when facing a demon since the noh mask that attacked her family shrine thanks to Tsubaki. But she had faith that she and InuYasha would beat him together, if their focus could truly increase their abilities.
InuYasha nodded, but he was still unsure "This better work, that pesky flea" he growled mentally. If this ended with both of their deaths he would haunt Myoga for the rest of his cowardly life to teach him a lesson. His life wasn't the only one on this line using this plan to win. God knows Myoga wasn't known for his reliability.
Kikyo aimed her arrow, pointing her weapon as high as she could into the sky, focusing her power into her aim. She could feel her heart racing with fear and hope, but she pushed it to the back of her mind. Her gaze roamed through the sky impatiently, sensing his demonic aura, soon, she felt it, his wicked energy flowing like smoke. "Found you!" she yelled angrily, she shot her arrow towards the demon, focusing her power with all of her might, shooting it into the air like a shooting star, her power sparking through the sky "Now InuYasha! hurry!" she yelled. They couldn't let this opportunity slip through their fingers.
InuYasha growled, now this jerk would pay for what he had done, this would end up being a satisfying defeat indeed. More jewel shards in their grasp and an arrogant demon had met his end. Threatening and kidnapping Kikyo, killing Shippo's father and endangering their lives "Backlash wave!" he yelled. InuYasha's demonic wind, Kikyo's spiritual power accumulated into a powerful whirlwind, swirling and echoing through the air towards the demon. The air vibrating with power, the force echoing through the sky. Kikyo felt herself flying backwards under the force, falling back towards the ground, trying her best to cling to InuYasha as to remain protected. But her strength couldn't match the force of the aftermath shockwave, the demonic wave pushing her away like a heavy force. Ripped from him in an instant "KIKYO!" InuYasha screamed.
Hiten's eyes widened, the tornado of power surrounding him like a forcefield, how could these two weaklings combine such a powerful force? It grew stronger, radiating with powerful electricity, deflecting his own. His eyes wide with fear, as he realised he was beaten "M… Masaka…" he stammered, this couldn't be the end, this was his defeat?
Kaede peered out from her hiding place, her eyes widening as she saw the whirling tornado of energy crackling through the sky. She couldn't look away, her gaze remained fixated on the battle unfolding. She had never felt such energy like it, this was the accumulated power of her sister and InuYasha? How terrifying, she had never thought together that their powers would lead to such a thing. But she couldn't help but feel excitement at their achievement "Shippo, Shippo they did it" she cried happily.
Her eyes widened as she saw a frightening yet heartbreaking sight, the last moments of a loved one before they passed onto Nirvana. Though she had never seen a spirit in person before, she knew of their existence. Shippo's body was surrounded by a blue flame, his father's demonic fox fire forming into the animal form, his energy surrounding Shippo protectively. Nuzzling his nose against Shippo's face, wiping away his son's tears, attempting to comfort him for the last time. His ghostly white eyes peered up towards Kaede making her stiffen in panic, backing away nervously. His eyes smiled, a knowing look on his face, shooting towards her and flowing through her like a shield before flying towards the sky. She gripped her chest in shock, the warmth yet the powerful aura of the demon leaving her stunned. Trying to understand what that gaze towards her had meant, what he had been attempting to communicate, had the demon attacked her or been a warning?
Shippo raised his head tearfully, his blue eyes glassy and his eyes red from tears, he felt so tired, but he knew the battle was over. He grinned sheepishly "My papa can rest in peace now, the demons are both dead. I guess he just gave his approval that you need to look out for me now" he chuckled. His father had passed through her, acknowledging her kind heart and care for Shippo, aware with her powers she could see him but felt no malice.
Kaede softened, that was his father saying goodbye and giving his approval? The last of his power had been able to accumulate to protect his son and leave one final message before departing? But that had to have meant they won the battle, meaning the brothers were both dead, the vendetta against them had been paid. "S… Shippo…" she trailed off. The final connection to his father had been severed forever.
Shippo's lip trembled, fresh tears spilling over his cheeks, he never thought being without his fathers spirit would feel so lonely. That he would realise that he had truly lost his family. He felt so scared, what would he do now without him? How would he manage to carry these memories of him knowing he was gone? Soon erupting into loud sobs "I… I didn't want to say goodbye yet" he wept.
Kaede gripped her hands into her fists, he had put on a brave face until now deflecting his pain with anger but now he had broken down his walls. Shippo's father's spirit could now know peace, he could live on and reach the afterlife. He could watch over his son as he grew up from the heavens, but Shippo was now alone, finding closure after his father was murdered. She approached, kneeling to wrap her arms around him in a warm hug, after everything he deserved this much. "Yokatta Shippo, you did well" she praised gently, he was ok to cry now, he didn't have to hold anything back.
InuYasha ran through the smoke and ash of the battlefield, both the brothers were now dead, he no longer had to be cautious and watch his step should something jump out at him. It seems Myoga had been correct about them combining their powers into a dual attack to win the fight. But it had come at a great risk, he lost Kikyo in the battle, becoming separated from the demonic shockwave caused by their attack. He had been blinded by the light of the explosion and the smoke and dirt lifted into the air. His brain running a mile a minute as endless questions ran through his mind, praying that his anxieties were merely flaring. Had she survived that fall? Was she safe? Would she jump out at him and make a joke? He felt sick that the thought, he couldn't lose anyone else, he couldn't visit another grave, he'd already adapted to visiting his mothers in secret, he always made sure to avoid Kagome's whenever possible, the pain was just too much. "Kikyo? Where are you? Answer me?!" he yelled frantically, he just needed to hear her voice. Suddenly, the ash cleared and he saw a body laying on the ground, his heart stopping in a second, time freezing instantly and the world around him becoming dead silent. His stomach dropped, his body going into shock as he tried to deny the sight before him. Her dark hair sprawled across the ground her body limp and weak, he could smell blood. His heart-stopping in his chest, Was she? She couldn't be? He had just lost grip of her for a second and now she? A voice inside him screamed defiantly that this couldn't be happening, he wasn't reliving his past again, that just wasn't fair. He ran towards her in a heartbeat, biting back the tears that threatened to fall.
Kikyo couldn't be dead, she couldn't be, she had so much life ahead of her, people waiting for her, he'd finally accepted her as part of his life. That maybe he had been alone too long. He scooped her up, cradling her head in his hands, wrapping his arms around her protectively, his body shaking as his mask began to falter. "Kikyo! Daijobu? Answer me" he pleaded, he just needed to hear her voice. Her body was covered in dirt and ash, light splatters of red on her clothes, her body unmoving, her dark hair tangled yet smooth. He couldn't lose her again, he couldn't lose another woman, he couldn't watch as someone else died because they got close to him. He remembered Kagome, how her life had ended in tragedy and rage, how she died on a battlefield surrounded by a burning village. Her angry hateful eyes before she died, her clothes smeared in blood and dirt, the rage flowing from her before she shot her arrow. He couldn't lose Kikyo too, not this time, after years of being alone he'd finally fallen in love again despite attempting to deny such feelings. That he'd been waiting to meet her all his life, that they were connected. She saw through him, she saw his pain and his loneliness, she was able to understand and relate to him. Suddenly, he noticed the spiritual aura flowing from her body, the shield surrounding her, glowing brightly. The shield dimmed before dissipating before his eyes, confusing him.
Kikyo stirred, her eyes flittering before slowly opening to reveal confused yet gentle brown eyes, he'd never been so relieved in his life. She shifted painfully, her expression wincing as her wounds got the better of her, smiling back at him warmly. She could sense that she had made him cry and she felt guilty for doing so, but it was all over now "InuYasha" she greeted fondly. She could gaze into those amber eyes that she had come to love so much. InuYasha felt as though his heart was running laps within his chest from relief, the wall of fear collapsed and he had never felt so happy before. Bitter tears filling his eyes as he restrained the sobs, his brother would mock him for such weakness but he didn't care. She was alive and that was all that mattered.
Kikyo smiled shakily, reaching out to reveal her hand, during her fall she had noticed them gleaming and managed to catch them. Hiten's jewel shards gleaming in her hand purified, while focusing a protective shield she had unknowingly purified the shards at the same time "I caught them when I fell" she smiled. She had seemingly hit two birds with one stone.
InuYasha clicked his teeth, he really thought he would lose her for a moment, he'd been prepared to scream to the heavens and blame Myoga for everything. That the girl he loved would be lost a second time, that she would become another accumulated memory in his tragic life "Don't scare me like that again Baka!" he growled. This was the first time he was losing his temper around her out of fear. Lowering his guard to show his sensitive side to her. He never lost his temper around Kikyo, unless it came to her being endangered.
Kikyo blushed, she could feel InuYasha trembling, the fear coursing through him that reflected in his eyes. She hadn't seen him this scared before, he'd always been rational and calm. His body was shaking like a leaf, his arms were gripping her tight, his golden eyes watery with tears, wondering if he had felt the same way when he realised Kagome had died. Maybe this was a flashback for him, maybe this was was like reliving his past, he truly believed she died for a minute. "Gomen InuYasha, that was cruel of me, I never mean to scare you" she whispered apologetically.
Kaede peered around the boulder to spot InuYasha cradling her sister tightly, she too thought Kikyo could have perished from that fall. Her sister wasn't invincible after all, she was still mortal with weaknesses and vulnerability. Making her a priestess didn't make her superhuman, just supernaturally gifted. But she was relieved to know she would recover over time, her medicinal herbs woud speed up the process, aside from a nasty fall, Kikyo would heal just fine.
Shippo clung to her leg quietly, peering up at her with puffy eyes, he had finally calmed down from crying but his face would be a mess for a while. He could sense InuYasha had been scared during the battle though he hid it well and he'd been deeply concerned over Kikyo's wellbeing the entire battle. This had to be of great relief for him "Should we say something?" he asked.
Kaede smiled, they deserved some alone time and this was far too cute to disturb "Nah, give them a minute" she grinned. They were making a big step in their relationship and she wanted to witness every second of it.
InuYasha cradled Kikyo in his arms, her head resting against his chest as he held her in the silence, reflecting on everything that had happened. How much things had changed between them and how easily he could have lost her. How he let her from his sight for just a moment and she had ended up being kidnapped and nearly killed. he felt so guilty that he couldn't protect her, he would just have to remain closer to her to assure that this never repeated itself. He knew how selfish that sounded but losing people had caused him to become weak, fearing the worst case scenario in the bleakest of moments. Kikyo rested her head against his chest fondly, listening to his heartbeat, he was so warm and she could smell his musk. His long silver hair tickled her cheek, his loving arms holding her so gently. She never wanted to leave, she knew it was selfish but she just wanted to be alone with him and feel this love.
InuYasha felt his cheeks heat, swallowing anxiously as he felt his ears twitch with excitement. He hadn't felt this nervous in a long time and this was a big step for him to be making. He knew when you loved someone you needed to show it, with every fibre of your being to remind them of how important they were to you. His mother had been a great role model to him, teaching him how to respect women and show your affections around someone you loved. Telling him stories of when she met his father and the trinkets and gifts he would bring her as a surprise. When his mother had passed, he had inherited two things from her, the robe of the fire rat he currently adorned like armour to protect himself, and the gift he was about to give Kikyo. His mother had always told him, to give it to someone he truly loved, all she had ever wanted from her son was for him to be loved by another and find his own happiness in the world. She knew the burden she had placed upon him as a half breed despite her love for his father. His mother had been a truly skilled medicinal healer as well as a princess, which she passed onto him, something Kikyo unknowingly had in common with her.
Though he had loved Kagome, previously considering her as a mate candidate, he had found a home with her and even her family had accepted him. Able to bond with her mother, grandfather and younger brother Souta. But like many good things, the dream had shattered and never meant to last. Inevitably she had broken his heart, causing his deeper distrust of humans. But he knew his mother would have accepted Kikyo, she would have trusted her to love and protect her son. They bore an uncanny resemblance and had the same peaceful, gentle heart, accepting of his half demon nature and loved him for who he was. "M...my mother… before she died she told me… if I ever…if I met someone, I should give it to someone I...someone precious to me…" InuYasha stammered. He'd never given a present to a girl before, he'd never loved someone as much as he did Kikyo. He'd never considered the word soulmate until now, that one person could become so interwoven in his life. He revealed the white rouge shell she always harboured on her person, holding it out in his hand shakily, letting go of his past and passing it down to someone deserving.
Kikyo gazed at it in awe, she had never seen such a beautiful shell, it stood out compared to the carbon copied blacks, silvers and reds of the lipstick containers she saw back home. Hand picked from the beach, left to dry and then slowly adjusted into a rouge container. She gently took the shell from him, opening it to reveal a deep maroon coloured rouge, that matched InuYasha's robe. She wondered if InuYasha's father had gifted this to InuYasha's mother before his death, now he was repeating the ritual for her. Her eyes widened in shock, she couldn't describe in words just how touching this was to her "Inu..Yasha…" she stammered.
She knew highborn ladies and some wealthier peasants would purchase rouge to colour their lips to attract the men they desired or to increase their beauty. Some women would purchase scents in hopes of attracting husbands or highborn ladies appearing seductive. It was a way of courtship that had passed down through generations but had changed over time. Back in her world, the same rules applied but for different reasons. Young girls her age were obsessed with makeup, colouring their faces, the latest fashion trends and making themselves into a perfect version of their idols. All of the girls in her school clamoured over make up magazines, worrying about their hair and looking good on a date. Tsubaki used make up to make herself more alluring, seducing people into her trap and manipulating them using her feminine wiles. Using her vanity for wicked purposes, self serving. She had never paid much mind to makeup, lipsticks and other girly items, though she respected women who put in effort for such things. She had never considered herself to enjoy such things, most of her life being focused on raising her sister or priestess training. It never left her time for the activities most girl her age leaisurely took for granted in their lives.
She harboured some of her late mother's perfume and some of her jewellery which held great sentimental value to her. Keeping them locked away somewhere private where she could admire them in secret. Until now she had deterred any unwanted attention from her due to the negativity which always followed, that the men in her life always wanted her for selfish reasons. But this gift from InuYasha harboured depth and kindness, he hadn't thrown this at her immediately after they met. He had thought reflectively about making this decision for the past few months of their meeting. He was gifting her with something precious, not materialistic, this shell he had held on his person since he was a pup, carrying a piece of his mother with him wherever he went. This was the first present a man had ever given her out of pure love, the fist unselfish act anyone had ever bestowed upon her. Everyone in her world constantly sought something from her and though as a priestess she constantly selflessly protected people from demonic influence. It was a lonely life, distanced from friendships, love or even normality.
He was gifting her with his mothers rouge, entrusting her with something precious, she would treasure this gift, knowing the weight in value it harboured to him. She could take a piece of InuYasha with her wherever she went, if she longed for him when she was back in the modern world. She need only hold the shell close to her and she would feel him. She would think of InuYasha always when she adorned it, she clasped her hand holding the small trinket to her heart. Leaning upwards to kiss InuYasha's cheek chastely with a sweet smile "Arigato InuYasha, I will keep it close always, nobody has ever given me such a precious gift" she thanked.
Kaede cupped her mouth in shock, she felt as though she could scream and cry from happiness alone. This was the most romantic thing she had ever seen in her life "OHMYGOD!OHMYGOD!" she babbled excitedly. She couldn't wait to congratulate Kikyo on this when they were alone and out of earshot. She felt so proud of InuYasha for mustering the confidence to make such a bold gesture. Back in their homeworld Kikyo was harassed and confessed to on a near-daily basis from men she harboured no interest in. The usual predictable gifts that they just assumed Kikyo would like without ever asking her, meaningless trinkets of flowers, chocolates and love letters. In reality, Kikyo didn't have much of a sweet tooth but did enjoy strawberry shortcake sponge and occasionally homemade baked goods. She preferred too grow wild flowers instead of domesticated roses or traditional garden plants. But love letters were never something that made her happy, Kikyo preferred literature and never paid any mind to her admirers. Many of their neighbours compared her to an old soul in a young body.
Some men confessing to her purely for her looks, everyday someone would comment on how Kikyo was a stunning girl. Yes, she knew Kikyo was a beautiful person but she was more than that. She thought Kikyo was amazing because of her confidence, kindness and skill, her big sister. People always assumed Kikyo was a frail polite beauty because of her introverted nature and Hime cut styled hair. Some men narcissistically wanting to date her for the sake of validation and looking good, rich boys saying they would take care of her and that she was too lovely for everyone else. Assuming they knew everything about her. Some men believed she was stuck up and simply thought they weren't validated enough by her, that her ignoring and disinterest in dating any of them was because she believed she deserved better than them. None of them ever understood then when Kikyo was rejecting them it was because she truly held no attraction or feelings for them.
In reality, none of them knew the real Kikyo, they never took the time to see the woman she was. Cared about her losses, her struggles, her insecurities or her responsibilities. They knew nothing about her life, her traumas or her interests. They created false persona's of the woman they wanted her to be and were dissappointed when she didn't meet the criteria of the woman they wanted. InuYasha was the first man to ever care about her on a personal level, to notice her feelings, her mood changes and the smallest flash of doubt. He made her smile from her heart, she trusted him and she loved him, he'd given her something precious, something valuable instead of materialistic. He'd entrusted her with his mother's shell, that wasn't just something you handed to anyone, that was a symbol of love.
Shippo blinked, he was relieved that Kikyo was safe, but she would need to rest for a while before they faced another battle. Now that he was part of their team he would be able to find a new family again. But he didn't understand what Kaede was so excited about, I mean shells were pretty but why was she so happy InuYasha gave it to his sister? He was very confused, he was yet to understand her fully, but he could tell she was happy.
This took so long to edit OMG