New Moons
By: Dish_Chan
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; I am merely using the characters to Perhaps entertain others
A/N Sugoi! I'm sooo happy I wrote this fic, I have the greatest idea for a new one too^_^ But I promise not to neglect my other stories "Martial Artist's Honor"! lol, anyway I want to thank alllll my reviewers again, you guys have been so great, I am going to write Inuyasha fics till I'm fifty.......uh maybe.....~_~; *SIGH* I am trying not to cry here, but this is the last chapter ;_; and I just hope you all enjoyed this as much as I did. I don't think I'm allowed to make this chapter just a large rant, so here's the*gasp* last one. I love you! Note to self: Less Mountain Dew!
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Chapter 15 "New Moons"
Pointing blades of sunlight stabbed at Kagome's lids until they opened, and she groggily sat up. Sango was curled up on the floor of her room, insisting she found the ground more comfortable than the bed Kagome offered. Shippou and Souta had retired to Souta's room after cleaning up the kitchen with Miroku and Inuyasha who were occupying her mother and grandfather's rooms. Kagome silently rose and walked towards her calendar, eyes glued to the days date. Among her small scratchings of things to remember, only one thing rested on today's date in print, "New Moon" She took a step back and blank her eyes in surprise. She usually kept up with the new moon, but it had taken her by surprise this time. A fleeting image of the Ferris wheel crossed her mind only long enough to make her feel very ill. Sango awoke from the floor, and moaned a tired "Morning already?". Kagome laughed softly "You sound like Souta." she said throwing a pillow at her friend. Sango sat up and dodged the attack easily before walking to the bathroom. Kagome sighed as she glanced out onto the sun drenched shrine 'I hope that Pizza guy got back safely....' she thought. They had ushered him out the door when he came to, and told him he had been hit by a falling limb. She laughed to herself and changed into some shorts, it seemed warm today, and a small black t-shirt, with read simply across the front "Toki o koeru omoi". She threw her hair back over her shoulder, and quietly walked downstairs. Inuyasha was sitting on the couch half asleep, as Souta and Shippou glued their small eyes to the television. Sango came down the stairs followed by Miroku, who seemed well rested and happy. Kagome sighed as she looked around the house "OK, Grandpa is coming home tonight, and the house is a mess!" she exclaimed. Souta looked up lazily and rolled his eyes "I think you and Sango should do the cleaning for once" he said smartly looking back to the TV. Kagome was quite annoyed by this, but Sango just took her arm "Come on Kagome-Chan, we'll make it fun!" Kagome sighed and reluctantly followed her friend. Sango entered the kitchen and sighed "This is what they call clean?" Even for someone who had never seen a modern kitchen, it was evident that the males had not done an efficient job. Kagome took a few bottles from beneath the counter and also filled a bucket with water and suds. Sango looked unsure, so Kagome handed her a mop and instructed her in what to do. Sango had been mopping for a few minutes when she stopped and stared at Kagome who was looking very thoughtful. "What is it Kagome?" she asked holding the mop beside her as she might a bo. Kagome batted her eyes, exciting her daydream and laughed lightly "It's silly...." Sango laughed "Looked pretty interesting to me, the way you were in a daze." Kagome laughed and explained herself "When I was a kid, there were theses shows, and when people cleaned up they would tie brushes to their feet and skate across the floor instead of mopping." Sango laughed and rolled her eyes to lock onto her sponges. Kagome also looked at them in interest.
"I wonder what their laughing so much about..." Miroku pondered eyeing the kitchen doorway curiously. Inuyasha growled and rolled over on the couch "Women are stupid no telling......" Miroku smiled slyly "I personally like them myself...." Inuyasha rolled his eyes and rose to follow the monk towards the kitchen. They both face faulted to see Sango give Kagome a push, who in turn, slid across the soapy floor and fell to her backside laughing. Sango who also had sponges tied to her feet, would then repeat with herself slipping across the tile. "What in the H-" Inuyasha began, but was interrupted by Shippou's gleeful "Sugoi!" as the kitsune jumped into the sudsy floor laughing. But since he had not looked before he leapt, he slid into a bucket, which rolled full of Shippou, to Inuyasha's feet and stopped. The little demon smiled up and Inuyasha and laughed "Join us?" Miroku silently rolled up his sleeves "It is only right of me to help the girls clean up, after all I helped make the mess." with that the priest walked towards them but slipped and ended up draped over a bewildered Sango's lap. Kagome laughed and thought to herself, that fate must want Sango and Miroku together more than anyone else. She snuck a glance at the silvery blue haired boy whom was trying not to smirk, and wondered what fate had in store for them. Kagome was brought back to the presence by a loud noise, and looked to see Miroku, who sat across the kitchen, smiling despite the red slap mark across his left cheek. Sango was glaring at him from behind her flaming cheeks hands brought up to hide everything but her piercing eyes. Inuyasha picked up Shippou and kicked the monk, "You always have to ruin it don't you?" Miroku sat up and dusted himself off sitting in a kneeling position with his eyes closed he simply answered "How am I to stop my natural instincts?" Sango growled and threw a soapy sponge in his direction, which he dodged, therefore it flew straight into and on the face of Kagome's very surprised grandfather. Kagome eeped in surprise "Ji-chan! Why are you back so early?" peeling the wet, once alive sea creature from his face he sighed. "I came back because I wanted to get a head start fixing this place up before your mother got home" Kagome laughed embarrassedly and scratched the back of her head. "Why don't you and your friends go through the well, you won't be much help here." he sighed tiredly and searched for some dry towels. Happy to escape responsibility, Kagome grabbed Sango's arm and ran to the living room to get her backpack she had left in the hall closet. Souta happily accompanied them, and showed Shippou the odd souvenir his grandfather had brought him. Kagome claiming she forgot something ran back to the kitchen "Grandpa?" she asked softly watching the old man wipe up the floor. "Yes Kagome?" "Thanks,...I love you." "You too Kagome, now go have fun." Kagome planted a kiss on his cheek before walked back to the well house, where Souta curiously asked why she was wearing sponges on her feet.
The sky was slowly starting to darken, and golden streaks filtered through the darkening blue, accompanied by a few stray wisps pf clouds, to make quite a beautiful scene. Inuyasha uncomfortably stared up at the sky in annoyance and fiddled with his sword. Kagome wanted to comfort him, but something kept her from doing so as she watched him look into the darkening depths of blue. 'He doesn't love you! he only kissed you because the way you resemble her.......' she mentally screamed, though for some reason her heart wouldn't listen, it instead lurched back and forth causing her to feel ill whenever Kikyou's face was seen in her mind. What HAD Inuyasha said about Kikyou that night? she couldn't remember..... Sango could tell Kagome was having a hard time and placed her hand upon the girl shoulder. Kagome looked at her and smiled, while Miroku wondered what all the female bonding was about. The group huddled closely around the fire, rain had greeted them when they arrived and poor Kagome had fallen face first into a mud puddle. Though the rain had ended, Kagome's clothes had been doomed and she had bought a rich emerald green Kimono, with a black sash and long sleeves. The villager had gladly sold her the expensive garment for a few candy bars and an electric toothbrush. One couldn't deny the sharp intake of breath that was heard from Inuyahsha's direction as he saw the way the kimono added Kagome's beauty. Kaede was suddenly seen walking up the path, where they were camping not far from the village. Before the woman could reach them, a bright light flashed and Inuyasha sat human, raven hair framing his angry face. Kagome's heart fell to her stomach and she closed her eyes mentally begging her cheeks not to flush. Kaede stopped only a moment to watch the transformation before greeting them and quietly sitting down. "Is everything alright in the village?" Sango asked, her hand moving to rest on her large boomerang which lay behind her. "Yes, everything is fine, I have come to ye because there is talk of a shard nearby." For the first time that evening Inuyasha perked up and looked interested. "A demon was just killed by some villagers in a cave nearby, and they said a jewel shard lies somewhere within the darkness, but they could not find it." Kagome smiled and looked up "I bet I could find it easily." she said her hand moving involuntarily to the shards around her neck. "Aye, but it is better ye go tomorrow, when Inuyasha can protect ye, I think no demons know of it as of yet." Kagome nodded and flashed a quick glance at Inuyasha "You're right, we can go tomorrow." she said. Inuyasha growled and rose, stomping off into the darkness. "Inuyasha! What's the matter?" Kagome cried running after him before Kaede would stop her. "She may be just what he needs right now." Miroku said stopping Sango from following.
Panting, Kagome followed Inuyasha and grabbed his arm "Inuyasha what is it?" she asked staring at him. He hid his eyes with his bangs and shook his head jerking his arm away "This stupid human form, I won't be able to protect you,...you could very well get killed staying here you know!'' Kagome shook her head "So you want me to leave........well too bad, cause I'm not!" she lifted her head and looked bravely at him. He glared at her "Will you ever listen just once?" Kagome laughed softly and shook her head "No, I can't if it means leaving you..." Inuyasha gasped lightly and looked at her tear filled eyes "Kagome?" She smiled softly at him though her mind kept screaming 'NO NO NO he loves Kikyou!!!!!!!' Kagome drew back slightly and turned away. Inuyasha wanted to reach out and embrace her, to keep her safe forever, but his mind kept telling him. 'Don't let you soft side show! She'll only die just like the other one! don't!' The thought of Kikyou's death went through his head, but he found he no longer felt the way he used to for her, but since she was on his mind he made a lethal mistake. "Kikyou,.......I mean Kagome!" Kagome turned around and he couldn't deny seeing the utter look of pain in her eyes, she looked as though someone had stuck a spear right through her. "I knew it..." she whispered turning and fleeing, her crystalline tears glimmering as they fell from her terrified eyes. "Kikyou! she's all you care about! I can't stand you Inuyasha!" Inuyasha gasped "Ka-kagome, you don't understand I want you.....I've always wanted you!" But the girl had ran too far ahead, blindly running into the woods, till she came to the sacred tree, and fell to the ground. caressing the trunk with her fingers she stared at it through tear filled eyes "This-this is where it all started.....CURSE YOU!" she yelled her caressing hand balling into a fist and pounding upon the wood.
Shippou and Souta were coming back from a village child's house, when they saw Kagome running fiercely towards the forest. ".......She was crying" Souta said as they sat down nearby. "Looks like Inuyasha ruined all of our hard work again, we'll have to follow Kagome and find a way to get them back together." Shippou said crossing his arms in thought. "What are you two doing?" Sango asked emerging from the darkness with Kirara and Miroku. "We saw Kagome! she was crying!" Shippou exclaimed "You can be sure it's Inuyasha's fault!" Sango sighed and looked to Miroku who hunched his shoulders, while Kirara wandered off towards the forest.
Kagome had been crying for quite some time when she heard a soft noise and felt a soft tail brush her arm. She looked up to see Kirara staring up at her with large, caring, red eyes. Kagome pet the small creature and smiled sadly "How are you Kirara?" The small demon was about to respond with another mew, but something caught Kagome's eyes. She gasped aloud as she saw Kikyou's small soul capturing demons heading in their direction. "Oh! I can't face Kikyou now! Quick Kirara let me ride you!" she exclaimed and hopped on the now large cat's back. Kirara carried Kagome up to the tree top, where she got off and sat on a large branch, the demon transformed and sat beside her, watching curiously. Kikyou came into the clearing, staring at the sacred tree deelpy. The paled woman was about to touch it, when a running human boy suddenly emerged from the bushes "Kagome?" he exclaimed breathlessly. Kagome recognized Inuyasha's voice and suddenly didn't want to be here with both of them. Inuyasha halted and stared at Kikyou as if afraid and took a step back "Ki- kikyou?" he faltered. She looked at him and smiled softly "Inuyasha, you are human, is this what you would have been like if we had not been thwarted?" she asked observing him carefully. Inuyasha just looked at her "Have you seen Kagome?" he asked trying to escape the subject. "You can still stay with me you know," she continued extending her slender hand "You can stay with me forever." Kagome held her breath as she watched Inuyasha stare at her hand deeply. " I'm sorry Kikyou," he said bowing his head slightly, as Kikyou looked confused. He rose his head and smiled sadly "But, I love Kagome....I could never love anyone else...." Kikyou took a step backward and looked distraught "But you once loved me did you not?" Inuyasha nodded, his sad smile still gracing his lips "But Fate wouldn't have it, it wasn't mean to be...." He stared at the tree for a long time and looked back "Once Kagome told Shippou: Sometimes you get what you want but it's not what you think, then you get what you need......and I need Kagome more than anything else.....even the Shikon Jewel is worthless compared to her." Kikyou nodded and walked slowly away "If this is how you want it.....but you know she will die eventually...your half demon, you'll surely outlive her." Inuyasha looked straight at her "Then I'll go with her!" Kikyou gave him an angry glare before disappearing, her serpent like demons flying into the sky. Inuyasha sighed and sat beneath the tree " Now if only I could tell Kagome." Shocked beyond words, Kagome motioned for Kirara to transform and climbed onto her back kicking her sides. The large demon soared into the air Kagome clutching her fur and trying not to cry. "Kirara, I-I remember what Inuyasha told me now......" she whispered as his words whispered through her memory. "Who's Kikyou?" She gasped "Why couldn't I just look ahead instead of into the past?" Her words still haunted her: 'Kikyou! she's all you care about! I can't stand you Inuyasha!' "I can't face Inuyasha now!" "Kirara take me to the cave Kaede was speaking of, maybe a jewel shard will give me the courage."
Kirara slowly landed in front of the eerie looking mouth of the cave and mewed forebodingly. Kagome ignored this and was glad she had kept up with her bow and arrows all this time. "I can do this!" Kagome said softly entering the cave and disappearing into the darkness. Instead of following, Kirara jumped into the air, hurrying to go find Inuyasha and the others.
Sango, Miroku, Shippou, and Souta all glared at Inuyasha as he returned to the camp fire dejectedly. "I can't find her anywhere...." he said staring into the fire sadly. The others were about to attack him with angry questions but Kirara's arrival stopped them all. "What is it Kirara?" Sango asked patting the creature's large head. Inuyasha, whom was able to understand Kirara best, looked at the large demon "Kirara have you seen Kagome?" Kirara roared and scooped Inuyasha onto her back with her head and soared off. "I suppose we should follow." Miroku said, but then realized the others were already running in Kirara and Inuyasha's direction.
Kagome made her way through the darkness, she silently scolded herself for not bringing a torch. It had not been hard, the only thing she had killed were a few small spider demons, which she had simply impaled on her arrow. Sitting down on who knows what, she sighed and glanced around the pitch blackness. The girl sighed and leaned against the cold stone, raking her fingers through her hair in annoyance, she closed her eyes. "Maybe this kimono isn't best for caves" she murmured, wondering if her other clothes were dry yet. She opened her eyes and scanned the darkness for a moment, for the first time realizing how dangerous this was, but chasing the thought from her mind. she was about to consider trying to find a way out, when something caught her eye. "Aha!" she exclaimed following the soft pink glow in the distance. Feeling her way towards the glow, Kagome smiled happily as she clasped the shard in her fingertips, though pricking herself in the process. Absentmindedly sticking her finger in her mouth, she crawled towards the direction she had come. Humming to herself Kagome found that she was suddenly becoming uncomfortable in the quite dark. A low rumble caused her to jump, hitting her head in the process. "Oww!" she moaned, rubbing her head before gasping as green eyes glowed from the distance. "uhoh..." she murmured realizing she had left her bow and arrows behind.
Inuyasha jumped down from Kirara, running blindly into the cave and cursing as he soon found himself in total dark. He felt his way around for a while before he tripped over something lying alone on the ground. He growled and picked up the object fingering it in annoyance, he gasped to find it was Kagome's bow. Setting it gently against the damp wall, he continued on, calling her name, but only hearing his echoes in reply. He continued, the damp air in the cave mingled with many scents, mostly water and bats, and he again wished he were in his better form. He suddenly bumped his head and cursed again, lowering himself to a crawling position, his hand landed in something wet, causing him to instantly bring it up to his nose. Rolling his eyes as no scent reached his nostrils, he hesitantly stuck it to the tip of his tongue and cringed as the irony taste of blood exploded through his senses. Even in his human form he was sure it was human blood, and most likely Kagome's at that. He crawled forward as fast as he could, and soon heard echoes of deep growls coming from further in the distance. Soon he arrived in a larger room where he could stand, and found a small amount of light filtering in through a hole in the roof of the cave. "Kagome?" he called snarling at the thought of her in danger. "Inuyasha!!!!" he heard her frightened call "Hellp!" He leapt towards the call, but was slammed to the ground by a strong force. He turned around and squinted in the dim light to see a large reptile demon with glowing green eyes, it looked at him hungrily and again attacked, though Inuyasha managed to dodge it this time. He now saw Kagome, she was plastered to a wall by some kind of white substance. Inuyasha drew his sword, though he knew it would do little good, perhaps he could keep the demon at bay until sunrise, though it seemed it had not even reached midnight yet, The demon leapt at him and the boy barley dodged, a claw grazing him in the process. "Inuyasha! don't let it lick you!" Kagome exclaimed frantically waving what she could of her bound wrists. Inuyasha nodded but the distraction gave the demon enough time to wrap it's slimy tongue around his ankle and pull him forward. Inuyasha growled and stuck the Tetsusaiga deeply into the creature's eyes, causing it to wretch in pain. Inuyasha jumped up and got back into stance but found his left ankle, where the demon had grabbed him to be bonded by the same hard white substance that held Kagome to the wall. Dragging his leg, Inuyasha jumped into the air and brought his weapon down upon the creature, but it's hard skin simply deflected the hit and caused Inuyasha to receive yet another blow from a mighty claw. Kagome's eyes were now brimming with tears as she realized this was all her fault. She clenched her fists as she watched Inuyasha being beaten by the creature, only to feel a sharp stab in her palm. Kagome gasped as she realized the shard was still resting in her hand, evidently the demon was more interested in eating her then having it. She suddenly had an idea and cried out "Inuyasha! catch!" Inuyasha turned and barley caught the jewel fragment flying towards him. "Inuyasha, remember when Sango used the jewel to fight you? do the same now!" she cried smiling as she tried to free herself. Inuyasha stared at the jewel only a moment before thrusting it into his chest, wincing slightly. Suddenly empowered by the jewel he smiled deviously and lunged at the demon who seemed to realize the power, and in turned opened it's mouth widely as if to catch Inuyasha within. Taking this chance, he jumped into the mouth and sliced through the demon's throat, causing a shower of crimson rain to spill over the interior of the cave. Kagome screamed in both horror and gladness at this victory, wriggling in her tight binds. Inuyasha gasped and fell to the ground, pulling the shard from his body, he rose and used it to break Kagome's binds. Kagome fell from the wall, and into the arms of her rescuer whom put her down reluctantly and looked around in a tired stare. "I guess we should try to find a way outta here." Inuyasha said glancing around the interior of the dimly lit cave. Kagome walked towards a small passageway and listened "Do you hear that?" she asked leaning towards the darkness in interest. Inuyasha perked as he could hear the barely recognizable sound of gurgling water. He clasped her hand tightly and warning her to be careful led her into the dark cavern. Souta and Shippou who had found the hole atop the cave had been looking in and with Shippou's help jumped down the hole unharmed and quietly followed them. Kagome held tightly to Inuyasha's hand as he led her through the darkness in silence warning her now and then of a low hanging stalactite. The sound of water grew louder and Kagome could smell the sweet scent of sakura flowers and jasmine. Finally they reached the night air and both gasped as the warm air filled their lungs. Kagome was about to walk forward when she stopped and gaped at the scene before them, they were standing on a small cliff on the edge of the mountain. A valley below was filled with a large stream, the origin of the noise that had guided them. The stars bathed the wildflowers and trees in a silver light and the wind caressed them to a swaying dance. Inuyasha glanced at the sharp drop-off and sighed "Looks like we'll have to go back...there's no way I can get us down in this condition." Kagome was sitting on the grass staring out at the scene, looking back at him only momentarily before turning back to the beauty before her. Shippou and Souta meanwhile had left some of Shippou's mushrooms to guide them back to the larger room, and were now working to cause a cave in. "Kagome..." Inuyasha began stepping forward but was interrupted by a crumbling sound from behind him. "That better not be...." Kagome gasped turning just in time to see rocks collapse and block the only way back into the cave. "Not again!" she exclaimed putting her head in her hands in exasperation. Inuyasha again glanced down at the steep drop off and shook his head, then walked over and tried to lift the large pile of rocks blocking their path. Sitting down in frustration he crossed his arms and shook his head, "We'll just have to wait till sunrise." Kagome glanced at him from the corner of her eye and sighed softly, though loud enough for him to hear. He looked at her in slight concern "What is it Kagome?" he asked then a thought entered his head making him jump up. "That demon didn't injure you did he?" he asked kneeling before her and carefully feeling her ribs in search of injury. Kagome flushed despite her will of holding it back lately. "Inuyasha...." she began softly causing him to continue looking for injury, but give a light "hmm?" in response. She placed her hands on his shoulders and willed him to look into her eyes "Inuyasha..." The boy tried not to stare, but the girls black hair shone in the evening light, and her chocolate eyes were filled with a gentle sadness. Her deep green kimono flattered everything about her, and her slight smile was slowly conquering his will to hide his softer side. Kagome equally studied him, trying not to gasp, she had never seen him as handsome as now, and his stormy gray eyes were staring into hers contently, as if a battle was going on within them, giving them a spark. His Raven hair was soft as it brushed against her hands and gleamed, bathed in silver starlight. His red sleeves seemed to shelter and protect her as his strong hands rested on her waist. They sat there in silence for several seconds before Kagome fell forward and buried her face in his shoulder, her warm tears coursing down her flushed cheeks. She sat back and cried out "Oh Inuyasha, I'm so sorry, I know I said I couldn't stand you but I really do love you Inuyasha, I couldn't stand being away from you for even a day.... I should have trusted you, I should have believed you.....I should have-" A finger brought to her lips cut her off and gentle eyes prodded her to silence as the hand was removed. "Kagome I've been wanting to tell you something, I've been wanting to tell you ever since..... well shortly after I met you....but I had to admit it to myself and others first........Kagome Kikyou means no-" This time Kagome cut him off buy leaning in and touching their noses together. Inuyasha's cheeks flushed wildly and he let his eyes meet hers "Ka-kagome, what is it?" Putting her arms around his neck she smiled "I was there, I heard everything with Kikyou......I never knew, I thought you loved me cause of her, not me, Kagome!" He stared at her for a moment as if taking all of this in, then hugged her tightly, stroking her hair and whispering "I'll never love anyone as much....." He stopped and brought his lips to hers, closing his eyes and praying time would stop. Kagome nuzzled his cheek and smiled "I love you Inuyasha..." Her kissed her again and pushed her to arms length to observe "And I love you Kagome..." "You don't know how many stars heard that wish." Kagome whispered. They both leaned sitting upright against the stone wall side by side, Inuyasha placing his arm tightly around her small shoulders, and she leaning her head on his own. "Let's stay like this till the sunrises..." She said softly. "Only if you'll stay with me forever..." he replied. Nuzzling his shoulder she smiled "I love new moons.."
Shippou and Souta rode Kirara, Sango and Miroku alongside them, watching with interest Kagome and Inuyasha. "Ok this is getting sickening!" Souta exclaimed sticking his small tongue out, though they knew he was enjoying it. "Mission accomplished!" Shippou stated, then glanced at Miroku and Sango mischievously. Souta noticed and smiled slyly. Sango was watching the couple, her eyes sparkling and her cheeks flushed. Miroku studied her and slowly placed his hand over hers, causing her to look up and lock her eyes on to his. "Hey guys, we thought we would go back to Kagome's time and ride a thing called a Ferris wheel!" This outburst from Shippou caused the spell to be broken, and the two to glance back at him in question. "Sounds kind of fun.." Sango said interested. Souta made sure he had plenty of money in his pocket and smiled as he thought of his friend whom operated the wheel. "Very interesting."
Below, in the silvery evening forests, among the chirping crickets and humming cicadas a soft voice whispered. "I see Inuyasha, you love her don't you? I suppose I finally understand" and with that the pale lowing face of a sad priestess vanished into the evening mist.
"Let's stay like this till the sun rises..." Kagome said softly. "Only if you'll stay with me forever..." he replied. Nuzzling his shoulder she smiled "new moons.."
OK that is it, I hope everyone enjoyed it.^_^
Ja ne, Dish-Chan
By: Dish_Chan
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; I am merely using the characters to Perhaps entertain others
A/N Sugoi! I'm sooo happy I wrote this fic, I have the greatest idea for a new one too^_^ But I promise not to neglect my other stories "Martial Artist's Honor"! lol, anyway I want to thank alllll my reviewers again, you guys have been so great, I am going to write Inuyasha fics till I'm fifty.......uh maybe.....~_~; *SIGH* I am trying not to cry here, but this is the last chapter ;_; and I just hope you all enjoyed this as much as I did. I don't think I'm allowed to make this chapter just a large rant, so here's the*gasp* last one. I love you! Note to self: Less Mountain Dew!
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Chapter 15 "New Moons"
Pointing blades of sunlight stabbed at Kagome's lids until they opened, and she groggily sat up. Sango was curled up on the floor of her room, insisting she found the ground more comfortable than the bed Kagome offered. Shippou and Souta had retired to Souta's room after cleaning up the kitchen with Miroku and Inuyasha who were occupying her mother and grandfather's rooms. Kagome silently rose and walked towards her calendar, eyes glued to the days date. Among her small scratchings of things to remember, only one thing rested on today's date in print, "New Moon" She took a step back and blank her eyes in surprise. She usually kept up with the new moon, but it had taken her by surprise this time. A fleeting image of the Ferris wheel crossed her mind only long enough to make her feel very ill. Sango awoke from the floor, and moaned a tired "Morning already?". Kagome laughed softly "You sound like Souta." she said throwing a pillow at her friend. Sango sat up and dodged the attack easily before walking to the bathroom. Kagome sighed as she glanced out onto the sun drenched shrine 'I hope that Pizza guy got back safely....' she thought. They had ushered him out the door when he came to, and told him he had been hit by a falling limb. She laughed to herself and changed into some shorts, it seemed warm today, and a small black t-shirt, with read simply across the front "Toki o koeru omoi". She threw her hair back over her shoulder, and quietly walked downstairs. Inuyasha was sitting on the couch half asleep, as Souta and Shippou glued their small eyes to the television. Sango came down the stairs followed by Miroku, who seemed well rested and happy. Kagome sighed as she looked around the house "OK, Grandpa is coming home tonight, and the house is a mess!" she exclaimed. Souta looked up lazily and rolled his eyes "I think you and Sango should do the cleaning for once" he said smartly looking back to the TV. Kagome was quite annoyed by this, but Sango just took her arm "Come on Kagome-Chan, we'll make it fun!" Kagome sighed and reluctantly followed her friend. Sango entered the kitchen and sighed "This is what they call clean?" Even for someone who had never seen a modern kitchen, it was evident that the males had not done an efficient job. Kagome took a few bottles from beneath the counter and also filled a bucket with water and suds. Sango looked unsure, so Kagome handed her a mop and instructed her in what to do. Sango had been mopping for a few minutes when she stopped and stared at Kagome who was looking very thoughtful. "What is it Kagome?" she asked holding the mop beside her as she might a bo. Kagome batted her eyes, exciting her daydream and laughed lightly "It's silly...." Sango laughed "Looked pretty interesting to me, the way you were in a daze." Kagome laughed and explained herself "When I was a kid, there were theses shows, and when people cleaned up they would tie brushes to their feet and skate across the floor instead of mopping." Sango laughed and rolled her eyes to lock onto her sponges. Kagome also looked at them in interest.
"I wonder what their laughing so much about..." Miroku pondered eyeing the kitchen doorway curiously. Inuyasha growled and rolled over on the couch "Women are stupid no telling......" Miroku smiled slyly "I personally like them myself...." Inuyasha rolled his eyes and rose to follow the monk towards the kitchen. They both face faulted to see Sango give Kagome a push, who in turn, slid across the soapy floor and fell to her backside laughing. Sango who also had sponges tied to her feet, would then repeat with herself slipping across the tile. "What in the H-" Inuyasha began, but was interrupted by Shippou's gleeful "Sugoi!" as the kitsune jumped into the sudsy floor laughing. But since he had not looked before he leapt, he slid into a bucket, which rolled full of Shippou, to Inuyasha's feet and stopped. The little demon smiled up and Inuyasha and laughed "Join us?" Miroku silently rolled up his sleeves "It is only right of me to help the girls clean up, after all I helped make the mess." with that the priest walked towards them but slipped and ended up draped over a bewildered Sango's lap. Kagome laughed and thought to herself, that fate must want Sango and Miroku together more than anyone else. She snuck a glance at the silvery blue haired boy whom was trying not to smirk, and wondered what fate had in store for them. Kagome was brought back to the presence by a loud noise, and looked to see Miroku, who sat across the kitchen, smiling despite the red slap mark across his left cheek. Sango was glaring at him from behind her flaming cheeks hands brought up to hide everything but her piercing eyes. Inuyasha picked up Shippou and kicked the monk, "You always have to ruin it don't you?" Miroku sat up and dusted himself off sitting in a kneeling position with his eyes closed he simply answered "How am I to stop my natural instincts?" Sango growled and threw a soapy sponge in his direction, which he dodged, therefore it flew straight into and on the face of Kagome's very surprised grandfather. Kagome eeped in surprise "Ji-chan! Why are you back so early?" peeling the wet, once alive sea creature from his face he sighed. "I came back because I wanted to get a head start fixing this place up before your mother got home" Kagome laughed embarrassedly and scratched the back of her head. "Why don't you and your friends go through the well, you won't be much help here." he sighed tiredly and searched for some dry towels. Happy to escape responsibility, Kagome grabbed Sango's arm and ran to the living room to get her backpack she had left in the hall closet. Souta happily accompanied them, and showed Shippou the odd souvenir his grandfather had brought him. Kagome claiming she forgot something ran back to the kitchen "Grandpa?" she asked softly watching the old man wipe up the floor. "Yes Kagome?" "Thanks,...I love you." "You too Kagome, now go have fun." Kagome planted a kiss on his cheek before walked back to the well house, where Souta curiously asked why she was wearing sponges on her feet.
The sky was slowly starting to darken, and golden streaks filtered through the darkening blue, accompanied by a few stray wisps pf clouds, to make quite a beautiful scene. Inuyasha uncomfortably stared up at the sky in annoyance and fiddled with his sword. Kagome wanted to comfort him, but something kept her from doing so as she watched him look into the darkening depths of blue. 'He doesn't love you! he only kissed you because the way you resemble her.......' she mentally screamed, though for some reason her heart wouldn't listen, it instead lurched back and forth causing her to feel ill whenever Kikyou's face was seen in her mind. What HAD Inuyasha said about Kikyou that night? she couldn't remember..... Sango could tell Kagome was having a hard time and placed her hand upon the girl shoulder. Kagome looked at her and smiled, while Miroku wondered what all the female bonding was about. The group huddled closely around the fire, rain had greeted them when they arrived and poor Kagome had fallen face first into a mud puddle. Though the rain had ended, Kagome's clothes had been doomed and she had bought a rich emerald green Kimono, with a black sash and long sleeves. The villager had gladly sold her the expensive garment for a few candy bars and an electric toothbrush. One couldn't deny the sharp intake of breath that was heard from Inuyahsha's direction as he saw the way the kimono added Kagome's beauty. Kaede was suddenly seen walking up the path, where they were camping not far from the village. Before the woman could reach them, a bright light flashed and Inuyasha sat human, raven hair framing his angry face. Kagome's heart fell to her stomach and she closed her eyes mentally begging her cheeks not to flush. Kaede stopped only a moment to watch the transformation before greeting them and quietly sitting down. "Is everything alright in the village?" Sango asked, her hand moving to rest on her large boomerang which lay behind her. "Yes, everything is fine, I have come to ye because there is talk of a shard nearby." For the first time that evening Inuyasha perked up and looked interested. "A demon was just killed by some villagers in a cave nearby, and they said a jewel shard lies somewhere within the darkness, but they could not find it." Kagome smiled and looked up "I bet I could find it easily." she said her hand moving involuntarily to the shards around her neck. "Aye, but it is better ye go tomorrow, when Inuyasha can protect ye, I think no demons know of it as of yet." Kagome nodded and flashed a quick glance at Inuyasha "You're right, we can go tomorrow." she said. Inuyasha growled and rose, stomping off into the darkness. "Inuyasha! What's the matter?" Kagome cried running after him before Kaede would stop her. "She may be just what he needs right now." Miroku said stopping Sango from following.
Panting, Kagome followed Inuyasha and grabbed his arm "Inuyasha what is it?" she asked staring at him. He hid his eyes with his bangs and shook his head jerking his arm away "This stupid human form, I won't be able to protect you,...you could very well get killed staying here you know!'' Kagome shook her head "So you want me to leave........well too bad, cause I'm not!" she lifted her head and looked bravely at him. He glared at her "Will you ever listen just once?" Kagome laughed softly and shook her head "No, I can't if it means leaving you..." Inuyasha gasped lightly and looked at her tear filled eyes "Kagome?" She smiled softly at him though her mind kept screaming 'NO NO NO he loves Kikyou!!!!!!!' Kagome drew back slightly and turned away. Inuyasha wanted to reach out and embrace her, to keep her safe forever, but his mind kept telling him. 'Don't let you soft side show! She'll only die just like the other one! don't!' The thought of Kikyou's death went through his head, but he found he no longer felt the way he used to for her, but since she was on his mind he made a lethal mistake. "Kikyou,.......I mean Kagome!" Kagome turned around and he couldn't deny seeing the utter look of pain in her eyes, she looked as though someone had stuck a spear right through her. "I knew it..." she whispered turning and fleeing, her crystalline tears glimmering as they fell from her terrified eyes. "Kikyou! she's all you care about! I can't stand you Inuyasha!" Inuyasha gasped "Ka-kagome, you don't understand I want you.....I've always wanted you!" But the girl had ran too far ahead, blindly running into the woods, till she came to the sacred tree, and fell to the ground. caressing the trunk with her fingers she stared at it through tear filled eyes "This-this is where it all started.....CURSE YOU!" she yelled her caressing hand balling into a fist and pounding upon the wood.
Shippou and Souta were coming back from a village child's house, when they saw Kagome running fiercely towards the forest. ".......She was crying" Souta said as they sat down nearby. "Looks like Inuyasha ruined all of our hard work again, we'll have to follow Kagome and find a way to get them back together." Shippou said crossing his arms in thought. "What are you two doing?" Sango asked emerging from the darkness with Kirara and Miroku. "We saw Kagome! she was crying!" Shippou exclaimed "You can be sure it's Inuyasha's fault!" Sango sighed and looked to Miroku who hunched his shoulders, while Kirara wandered off towards the forest.
Kagome had been crying for quite some time when she heard a soft noise and felt a soft tail brush her arm. She looked up to see Kirara staring up at her with large, caring, red eyes. Kagome pet the small creature and smiled sadly "How are you Kirara?" The small demon was about to respond with another mew, but something caught Kagome's eyes. She gasped aloud as she saw Kikyou's small soul capturing demons heading in their direction. "Oh! I can't face Kikyou now! Quick Kirara let me ride you!" she exclaimed and hopped on the now large cat's back. Kirara carried Kagome up to the tree top, where she got off and sat on a large branch, the demon transformed and sat beside her, watching curiously. Kikyou came into the clearing, staring at the sacred tree deelpy. The paled woman was about to touch it, when a running human boy suddenly emerged from the bushes "Kagome?" he exclaimed breathlessly. Kagome recognized Inuyasha's voice and suddenly didn't want to be here with both of them. Inuyasha halted and stared at Kikyou as if afraid and took a step back "Ki- kikyou?" he faltered. She looked at him and smiled softly "Inuyasha, you are human, is this what you would have been like if we had not been thwarted?" she asked observing him carefully. Inuyasha just looked at her "Have you seen Kagome?" he asked trying to escape the subject. "You can still stay with me you know," she continued extending her slender hand "You can stay with me forever." Kagome held her breath as she watched Inuyasha stare at her hand deeply. " I'm sorry Kikyou," he said bowing his head slightly, as Kikyou looked confused. He rose his head and smiled sadly "But, I love Kagome....I could never love anyone else...." Kikyou took a step backward and looked distraught "But you once loved me did you not?" Inuyasha nodded, his sad smile still gracing his lips "But Fate wouldn't have it, it wasn't mean to be...." He stared at the tree for a long time and looked back "Once Kagome told Shippou: Sometimes you get what you want but it's not what you think, then you get what you need......and I need Kagome more than anything else.....even the Shikon Jewel is worthless compared to her." Kikyou nodded and walked slowly away "If this is how you want it.....but you know she will die eventually...your half demon, you'll surely outlive her." Inuyasha looked straight at her "Then I'll go with her!" Kikyou gave him an angry glare before disappearing, her serpent like demons flying into the sky. Inuyasha sighed and sat beneath the tree " Now if only I could tell Kagome." Shocked beyond words, Kagome motioned for Kirara to transform and climbed onto her back kicking her sides. The large demon soared into the air Kagome clutching her fur and trying not to cry. "Kirara, I-I remember what Inuyasha told me now......" she whispered as his words whispered through her memory. "Who's Kikyou?" She gasped "Why couldn't I just look ahead instead of into the past?" Her words still haunted her: 'Kikyou! she's all you care about! I can't stand you Inuyasha!' "I can't face Inuyasha now!" "Kirara take me to the cave Kaede was speaking of, maybe a jewel shard will give me the courage."
Kirara slowly landed in front of the eerie looking mouth of the cave and mewed forebodingly. Kagome ignored this and was glad she had kept up with her bow and arrows all this time. "I can do this!" Kagome said softly entering the cave and disappearing into the darkness. Instead of following, Kirara jumped into the air, hurrying to go find Inuyasha and the others.
Sango, Miroku, Shippou, and Souta all glared at Inuyasha as he returned to the camp fire dejectedly. "I can't find her anywhere...." he said staring into the fire sadly. The others were about to attack him with angry questions but Kirara's arrival stopped them all. "What is it Kirara?" Sango asked patting the creature's large head. Inuyasha, whom was able to understand Kirara best, looked at the large demon "Kirara have you seen Kagome?" Kirara roared and scooped Inuyasha onto her back with her head and soared off. "I suppose we should follow." Miroku said, but then realized the others were already running in Kirara and Inuyasha's direction.
Kagome made her way through the darkness, she silently scolded herself for not bringing a torch. It had not been hard, the only thing she had killed were a few small spider demons, which she had simply impaled on her arrow. Sitting down on who knows what, she sighed and glanced around the pitch blackness. The girl sighed and leaned against the cold stone, raking her fingers through her hair in annoyance, she closed her eyes. "Maybe this kimono isn't best for caves" she murmured, wondering if her other clothes were dry yet. She opened her eyes and scanned the darkness for a moment, for the first time realizing how dangerous this was, but chasing the thought from her mind. she was about to consider trying to find a way out, when something caught her eye. "Aha!" she exclaimed following the soft pink glow in the distance. Feeling her way towards the glow, Kagome smiled happily as she clasped the shard in her fingertips, though pricking herself in the process. Absentmindedly sticking her finger in her mouth, she crawled towards the direction she had come. Humming to herself Kagome found that she was suddenly becoming uncomfortable in the quite dark. A low rumble caused her to jump, hitting her head in the process. "Oww!" she moaned, rubbing her head before gasping as green eyes glowed from the distance. "uhoh..." she murmured realizing she had left her bow and arrows behind.
Inuyasha jumped down from Kirara, running blindly into the cave and cursing as he soon found himself in total dark. He felt his way around for a while before he tripped over something lying alone on the ground. He growled and picked up the object fingering it in annoyance, he gasped to find it was Kagome's bow. Setting it gently against the damp wall, he continued on, calling her name, but only hearing his echoes in reply. He continued, the damp air in the cave mingled with many scents, mostly water and bats, and he again wished he were in his better form. He suddenly bumped his head and cursed again, lowering himself to a crawling position, his hand landed in something wet, causing him to instantly bring it up to his nose. Rolling his eyes as no scent reached his nostrils, he hesitantly stuck it to the tip of his tongue and cringed as the irony taste of blood exploded through his senses. Even in his human form he was sure it was human blood, and most likely Kagome's at that. He crawled forward as fast as he could, and soon heard echoes of deep growls coming from further in the distance. Soon he arrived in a larger room where he could stand, and found a small amount of light filtering in through a hole in the roof of the cave. "Kagome?" he called snarling at the thought of her in danger. "Inuyasha!!!!" he heard her frightened call "Hellp!" He leapt towards the call, but was slammed to the ground by a strong force. He turned around and squinted in the dim light to see a large reptile demon with glowing green eyes, it looked at him hungrily and again attacked, though Inuyasha managed to dodge it this time. He now saw Kagome, she was plastered to a wall by some kind of white substance. Inuyasha drew his sword, though he knew it would do little good, perhaps he could keep the demon at bay until sunrise, though it seemed it had not even reached midnight yet, The demon leapt at him and the boy barley dodged, a claw grazing him in the process. "Inuyasha! don't let it lick you!" Kagome exclaimed frantically waving what she could of her bound wrists. Inuyasha nodded but the distraction gave the demon enough time to wrap it's slimy tongue around his ankle and pull him forward. Inuyasha growled and stuck the Tetsusaiga deeply into the creature's eyes, causing it to wretch in pain. Inuyasha jumped up and got back into stance but found his left ankle, where the demon had grabbed him to be bonded by the same hard white substance that held Kagome to the wall. Dragging his leg, Inuyasha jumped into the air and brought his weapon down upon the creature, but it's hard skin simply deflected the hit and caused Inuyasha to receive yet another blow from a mighty claw. Kagome's eyes were now brimming with tears as she realized this was all her fault. She clenched her fists as she watched Inuyasha being beaten by the creature, only to feel a sharp stab in her palm. Kagome gasped as she realized the shard was still resting in her hand, evidently the demon was more interested in eating her then having it. She suddenly had an idea and cried out "Inuyasha! catch!" Inuyasha turned and barley caught the jewel fragment flying towards him. "Inuyasha, remember when Sango used the jewel to fight you? do the same now!" she cried smiling as she tried to free herself. Inuyasha stared at the jewel only a moment before thrusting it into his chest, wincing slightly. Suddenly empowered by the jewel he smiled deviously and lunged at the demon who seemed to realize the power, and in turned opened it's mouth widely as if to catch Inuyasha within. Taking this chance, he jumped into the mouth and sliced through the demon's throat, causing a shower of crimson rain to spill over the interior of the cave. Kagome screamed in both horror and gladness at this victory, wriggling in her tight binds. Inuyasha gasped and fell to the ground, pulling the shard from his body, he rose and used it to break Kagome's binds. Kagome fell from the wall, and into the arms of her rescuer whom put her down reluctantly and looked around in a tired stare. "I guess we should try to find a way outta here." Inuyasha said glancing around the interior of the dimly lit cave. Kagome walked towards a small passageway and listened "Do you hear that?" she asked leaning towards the darkness in interest. Inuyasha perked as he could hear the barely recognizable sound of gurgling water. He clasped her hand tightly and warning her to be careful led her into the dark cavern. Souta and Shippou who had found the hole atop the cave had been looking in and with Shippou's help jumped down the hole unharmed and quietly followed them. Kagome held tightly to Inuyasha's hand as he led her through the darkness in silence warning her now and then of a low hanging stalactite. The sound of water grew louder and Kagome could smell the sweet scent of sakura flowers and jasmine. Finally they reached the night air and both gasped as the warm air filled their lungs. Kagome was about to walk forward when she stopped and gaped at the scene before them, they were standing on a small cliff on the edge of the mountain. A valley below was filled with a large stream, the origin of the noise that had guided them. The stars bathed the wildflowers and trees in a silver light and the wind caressed them to a swaying dance. Inuyasha glanced at the sharp drop-off and sighed "Looks like we'll have to go back...there's no way I can get us down in this condition." Kagome was sitting on the grass staring out at the scene, looking back at him only momentarily before turning back to the beauty before her. Shippou and Souta meanwhile had left some of Shippou's mushrooms to guide them back to the larger room, and were now working to cause a cave in. "Kagome..." Inuyasha began stepping forward but was interrupted by a crumbling sound from behind him. "That better not be...." Kagome gasped turning just in time to see rocks collapse and block the only way back into the cave. "Not again!" she exclaimed putting her head in her hands in exasperation. Inuyasha again glanced down at the steep drop off and shook his head, then walked over and tried to lift the large pile of rocks blocking their path. Sitting down in frustration he crossed his arms and shook his head, "We'll just have to wait till sunrise." Kagome glanced at him from the corner of her eye and sighed softly, though loud enough for him to hear. He looked at her in slight concern "What is it Kagome?" he asked then a thought entered his head making him jump up. "That demon didn't injure you did he?" he asked kneeling before her and carefully feeling her ribs in search of injury. Kagome flushed despite her will of holding it back lately. "Inuyasha...." she began softly causing him to continue looking for injury, but give a light "hmm?" in response. She placed her hands on his shoulders and willed him to look into her eyes "Inuyasha..." The boy tried not to stare, but the girls black hair shone in the evening light, and her chocolate eyes were filled with a gentle sadness. Her deep green kimono flattered everything about her, and her slight smile was slowly conquering his will to hide his softer side. Kagome equally studied him, trying not to gasp, she had never seen him as handsome as now, and his stormy gray eyes were staring into hers contently, as if a battle was going on within them, giving them a spark. His Raven hair was soft as it brushed against her hands and gleamed, bathed in silver starlight. His red sleeves seemed to shelter and protect her as his strong hands rested on her waist. They sat there in silence for several seconds before Kagome fell forward and buried her face in his shoulder, her warm tears coursing down her flushed cheeks. She sat back and cried out "Oh Inuyasha, I'm so sorry, I know I said I couldn't stand you but I really do love you Inuyasha, I couldn't stand being away from you for even a day.... I should have trusted you, I should have believed you.....I should have-" A finger brought to her lips cut her off and gentle eyes prodded her to silence as the hand was removed. "Kagome I've been wanting to tell you something, I've been wanting to tell you ever since..... well shortly after I met you....but I had to admit it to myself and others first........Kagome Kikyou means no-" This time Kagome cut him off buy leaning in and touching their noses together. Inuyasha's cheeks flushed wildly and he let his eyes meet hers "Ka-kagome, what is it?" Putting her arms around his neck she smiled "I was there, I heard everything with Kikyou......I never knew, I thought you loved me cause of her, not me, Kagome!" He stared at her for a moment as if taking all of this in, then hugged her tightly, stroking her hair and whispering "I'll never love anyone as much....." He stopped and brought his lips to hers, closing his eyes and praying time would stop. Kagome nuzzled his cheek and smiled "I love you Inuyasha..." Her kissed her again and pushed her to arms length to observe "And I love you Kagome..." "You don't know how many stars heard that wish." Kagome whispered. They both leaned sitting upright against the stone wall side by side, Inuyasha placing his arm tightly around her small shoulders, and she leaning her head on his own. "Let's stay like this till the sunrises..." She said softly. "Only if you'll stay with me forever..." he replied. Nuzzling his shoulder she smiled "I love new moons.."
Shippou and Souta rode Kirara, Sango and Miroku alongside them, watching with interest Kagome and Inuyasha. "Ok this is getting sickening!" Souta exclaimed sticking his small tongue out, though they knew he was enjoying it. "Mission accomplished!" Shippou stated, then glanced at Miroku and Sango mischievously. Souta noticed and smiled slyly. Sango was watching the couple, her eyes sparkling and her cheeks flushed. Miroku studied her and slowly placed his hand over hers, causing her to look up and lock her eyes on to his. "Hey guys, we thought we would go back to Kagome's time and ride a thing called a Ferris wheel!" This outburst from Shippou caused the spell to be broken, and the two to glance back at him in question. "Sounds kind of fun.." Sango said interested. Souta made sure he had plenty of money in his pocket and smiled as he thought of his friend whom operated the wheel. "Very interesting."
Below, in the silvery evening forests, among the chirping crickets and humming cicadas a soft voice whispered. "I see Inuyasha, you love her don't you? I suppose I finally understand" and with that the pale lowing face of a sad priestess vanished into the evening mist.
"Let's stay like this till the sun rises..." Kagome said softly. "Only if you'll stay with me forever..." he replied. Nuzzling his shoulder she smiled "new moons.."
OK that is it, I hope everyone enjoyed it.^_^
Ja ne, Dish-Chan