*DISCLAIMER* *I wish I owned Inu Yasha, but I don't* I also want to give
fair warning of potential spoilers in this chapter for episode 26 in the
Anime.
Kagome stared into the well. Half kneeling, she leaned against the rough wooden boards. The past few days weighed heavily on her mind, and she had a lot to think about. She decided not to go to school today. When Shippou had come to pick her up, she told him to go without her. He looked a little worried, but said he understood. Her Mom had told her everyone needed a mental health day now and then. Mental health day, Kagome liked the sound of that. It had a nice ring to it; mental health day. Sometimes it surprised her how understanding her mom was. She had told Kagome that if she could, not only catch up after missing weeks of school, but get very good grades in the process, then missing one day was not going to hurt her any; and may do a great deal of good. Her mind kept wandering back to her encounter with Kikyou yesterday. She knew she shouldn't let Kikyou get to her, but every time she felt a familiar ache in her shoulder, she had a hard time remembering that.
Kagome sighed and continued to stare down the well, one arm trailing lazily over the side, her cheek rested against the rough wood. Once this well house had seemed so spooky to her; now it was a place of comfort. It was warm in the well house and she could smell the wood and earth. Incense burned next to the well, sandalwood. Its smoke curled in the still air. She often lit incense as a tribute to the memory of her fallen friends. The dark depths of the well called to her. She wondered, not for the first time, if the well still worked.
Sango and Miroku, even Kikyou were reincarnations. But Inu Yasha wasn't. He may not remember his past, but he was the same person, not a reincarnation. How could he be here? Kagome wished she had someone who she could talk to about this. But the only person she knew, who might know anything about it was her grandfather, and she didn't feel like listening to his long rambling stories, which were probably all wrong anyway. Kagome lifted her cheek off the wooden board; her eyes went big as a thought formed in her mind. Grandfather was the only person she knew, who knew anything about stuff like reincarnations..in this time.
Kagome stood up, brushing her knees off. Did the well still work? Well, there was only one way to find out, and there was not time to go into the past, like the present, she thought wryly to herself. Taking a big breath she jumped. The world glowed blue around her, as she fell further than the well was deep. After a few moments, that had no time, she landed. She looked up and saw blue sky above her, instead of the wooden ceiling of the shrine. She was back.
Gripping the vines, she began to climb. She poked her head out of the well. She came face to face with a young man, she recognized him as one of the villagers. He dropped the mallet that he was holding and gave a delighted cry. "Kagome-sama, Kagome-sama, your back." Turning on his heal he took off toward the village, "Kagome-sama's back, Kagome-sama's back," he shouted. Kagome pulled herself over the lip of the well and stared after the running man.
"What was that all about?" she thought. Then looked around her, there were piles of lumber around, several of the village men had stopped their work, and stared at her, then broke into delighted smiles, just like the young man from before. Dropping their tools they bowed to Kagome and started praying. I wish they wouldn't do that, she thought, and then realized what they were building They were building a shrine. Kagome looked around amazed. They were building a shrine, she thought again. Bowing to the villagers, she started walking quickly to the village. She really needed to talk to Kaede.
As she neared the village, she saw the old woman walking toward her. "Kaede!" she shouted, and flung herself into her arms. "I missed you!" Then she burst into tears.
Kaede chuckled, "I missed you too child."
Kagome stood their holding Kaede for a good long time, then she looked up, her face tear streaked, "they're building the shrine."
"Yes, Myoga and I thought that if you are going to be here in the future, then we should start getting it ready for you.
"Myoga-jiji is here?"
"Gamyon, I will drink." The flea youki leaped off of Kaede, and landed on Kagome's cheek. Kagome felt a bite, as the flea took a drink.
*SMACK*
A squashed flea slowly floated to the ground.
"Come in Kagome," Kaede said as she lead the girl into her hut.
A small fire burned in the fire place in the middle of the hut, a small boy tended the stew bubbling in the iron pot, stirring it so that it would not burn. "Kado," Kaede said, addressing the boy, "Thank you for watching the stew, you may go play now until dinner." The small boy broke in to a wide grin and ran out of the hut. Kaede chuckled, and then said to Kagome, "Never walking, when he can run."
"Who is he Kaede?" Kagome asked.
"He is my Aunt's, daughter's son. His parents were killed a few years ago, when a raiding party rode through their town. A very tragic thing and he has been bouncing around from family member to family member. He arrived here about a month ago. I think he can finally find a permanent home here."
Kagome nodded, and then sank down on the straw mat, and Kaede sat next to her. Mygoa, hopped in the hut, and settled himself on Kagome's knee.
"I'm so glad you're both here. I have something I need to ask." Both Kaede and Myoga listened intently as Kagome told them everything that had happened since she last left.
"Hmmmm," Myoga said as Kagome finished her story. "You are sure that Inu Yasha-sama is the same person, and not a reincarnation?"
Kagome nodded, "He doesn't remember anything, but he is the same person. He even still has the prayer beads around his neck."
"Do they work?" Kaede asked.
"Uhhh, I don't know. I haven't tried to subdue him."
Both Myoga and Kaede nodded.
"Well, assuming that he is the same person, and not a reincarnation, it could be that because, Inu Yasha-sama was not dead when Kikyou took him to hell, he some how found a way to get back to you," Myoga said.
"But how?" Kagome asked.
"I do not know," Myoga said.
"And what about Kikyou? I thought I was supposed to be her reincarnation. How can she be reborn into the same time as me?"
"I did think you were the reincarnation of my sister when I first met you. You looked so much like her, and you had the Shikon no Tama in your body; but if she was truly reincarnated in your time, not just brought back to animate a dead lump of clay and bones, then there is no way that you could truly share a soul with her. As to how Inu Yasha escaped Kikyou, I can only guess at that as well. She was already dead when she went to hell, and without the Shikon no Tama, she might not have had the power to bind his soul to hers. So she was only able to reincarnate, not come back in the same body.
Kagome nodded.
"That would also explain something that has been bugging me for a long time."
"What is that Myoga-jiji?"
"Why you and Inu Yasha-sama were the only one's who were able to go though the well. If Sango and Miroku had already been reincarnated, then they could not travel to a time where their souls already were. But Inu Yasha went to hell, his soul never reincarnated, so there was nothing keeping him from crossing to your time. The same is true for you, you soul was not here in this time, so you could come back," Myoga said.
Kaede nodded as well, "That seems to make sense." Then she looked at Kagome, "You said Sango has reincarnated?"
"Yes."
"Follow me," she stood up and left the hut. Puzzled, Kagome followed. Kaede led Kagome to where Sango and Miroku's graves were. On Sango's grave, curled up in a ball was Kiarra.
"Kiarra," Kagome fell to her knees, and scooped up the little cat. She felt very light, and her fur was dull and lifeless. Kiarra started purring and rubbing Kagome with his head. "What's happened to him?"
"Ever since you left he has refused to leave Sango's grave. He stays up here all the time. It is a very sad thing. I want you to try and take him back with you. It is no good for him to stay here."
Kagome nodded, "but what if he can't get though the well?"
"If he can't, then it was not meant to be."
"I will try and take him back" she said, standing up, the little cat in her arms.
"Good, I'm afraid if he stays here much longer he will die."
Kagome stood looking down into the well, Kiarra in her arms. The little cat was already looking better. Kagome was about to jump in the well, when Kiarra jumped out of her arms. "Kiarra?" Kagome said.
Energy whirled around the cat and he grew. Looking at Kagome, he indicated his back with a gesture of his head. Puzzled Kagome climbed on his back. With a leap, Kiarra flew through the air. The landscape passed quickly under them. Where was Kiarra taking her, Kagome wondered. Soon Kiarra landed outside a large cave. It looked very familiar. A blue shimmer at the entrance confirmed her suspicions. The shield tingled a little when she stepped though it, Kiarra at her side. She continued to the heart of the cave, to the statue of the miko she knew was there.
She stood looking at the long dead miko, surrounded by the bodies of youkai. A single strand of soul energy shot out from the Shikon no Tama and surrounded the frozen statue. Still connected to Kagome, an iridescent figure, blue-ish in color and shimery, stepped out from the statue and walked toward her. "Midoriko," Kagome whispered.
"Kagome," Midoriko the miko said. "I'm glad you came. I could not talk to you without you coming here, to where I died."
"Why am I here?"
"You remember what you wear around you neck?" Kagome touched the Shikon no Tama. "Do you remember what Sango said, all those years ago, about why the Shikon no Tama was made?"
"It is your heart. In order to defeat the youki you took them into your self and sealed them in your heart."
Midoriko smiled, "Yes, the Shikon no Tama is my heart and spirit; Arami Tama, Kikimi-Tama, Fushigi Tama, and Sakimi-Tama: courage, friendship, wisdom and love. When the people of this village recovered the Shikon no Tama, they entrusted it to a Miko to help me in my battle to purify the evil youki energy"
"Kikyou," Kagome whispered.
"Yes Kikyou." But she died in the protecting of it, died in a trap. When the Shikon no Tama burned with her, it released it in to the world of the souls. It released me to the world of the souls. I had to allow my self to be reincarnated, in order to continue the battle. Otherwise the youki energy would also have been released. So I was reborn, reborn into a new body and a new mind
Kagome listened wide eyed.
"The reason I tell you this Kagome, is that you are that person. You are my reincarnation. The Shikon no Tama is not just my heart, but yours as well. You were the only one who could shatter it, but you were the only one who could really make it truly whole again. No one else. Only you."
"But what about Kikyou? Aren't I her reincarnation?"
"The reason you look so much like Kikyou and have the same type of energy is because you are descended from her line. I remembered Kikyou, she was a good Miko and a good person when she lived. I choose to be born as one of her descendents. You are descended from her blood line, from one of her cousins, but you do not share a soul with her. However, because of that bond, she was able to use part of your soul, to reanimate that semblance of herself.for a while. When she took Inu Yasha to hell with her, that part of your soul was released and returned. You did not notice it, because of the grief you had for your friends, but when Inu Yasha threw you the Shikon no Tama, and you took back what was yours."
"I'm descended from Kikyou?" Was all Kagome could think to say.
"Yes, I believe you met the young man who is one of you ancestors today."
"Kado." Then a really odd thought came to her. "I was talking to Rin yesterday, and she said that she married the cousin of a village elder that she stayed with; the same village elder that had taken care of Shippou." She chewed her bottom lip thoughtfully, "does that mean I'm descended from Rin as well?"
"It is very possible."
Kagome nodded and fingered the Shikon no Tama, it felt warm under her touch. She looked up at the glowing figure of Midoriko, with more questions burning in her eyes."
Midoriko smiled again and said, "The Shikon no Tama is a part of you, like it was a part of me when I lived. I am also a part of you. You are the only one who can use the power of the Shikon no Tama without being corrupted by the youki energy that helped create it. Once it is purified, you will reclaim the power that I had to use to create it." She looked at Kagome, pride shining in her eyes, "You have grown far more than I ever could have and will be more powerful than I ever imagined. You alone have the power to purify the jewel. Although," she added, "you do not have to be alone to do it."
Kagome nodded, "How do I finish purifying it?"
"When you find a way, you will know. I wish I could tell you more." She said sadly. "There is one more thing that I do need to tell you, though; Strong emotions can be carried from life to life, love, hate and friendship. Kikyou may remember the hate she had for you, just like Miroku and Sango may remember you friendship. Be very careful with this. None of them will have the memories of your previous life together.
"What about Inu Yasha," Kagome whispered.
"When Inu Yasha tore the jewel from Kikyou's neck he made a wish, he may not have realized it, but he wanted nothing more than to be with you. It was a pure wish, made with a pure heart, so the Shikon no Tama granted it."
"And now he is in my world," Kagome finished.
Midoriko smiled, "yes, he is."
"But why can't he remember his past?"
"When you go thorough the well, it is a very easy trip, the well was made with a time tree, and the path is well marked, but Inu Yasha moved through time a much more difficult way. I am not surprised if he can not remember his life from before. That type of time travel will often have that effect."
"Will he ever remember?"
"I don't know. Mayhap in time he will, especially with you there to help remind him." The smoky form that made up Midoriko looked down at the little youkai cat, curled up at Kagome's feet. "Please take Kiarra back with you, his soul would wither and die here now. He served me faithfully for many years, and was their when I died. Since then, he stayed in this village helping to protect the people. Now that they are all dead, there is nothing for him here anymore. May he find happiness in your time. I have told you all that I can, all that I can help you with to finish our task.except this." She reached out and touched Kagome's cheek with her hand. "I am honored to be part of your soul, Kagome."
The energy flowed back into Kagome; back into the Shikon no Tama. While Kagome could no longer see Midoriko, she could feel her presence inside of her, a part of her. She knew that Midoriko was not a separate person, but part of who she was; part of Kagome. Back straight, she left the cave, to face the world, Kiarra by her side.
Kagome landed with a thump, Kiarra safely in her arms. "Well, it looks like you are meant to come back with me. Maybe she was just imagining things, but this time, when she had jumped in the well, she had felt a cold chill up her spine. Shivering slightly she shook off the feeling. It was probably just because Kirrara was with her; she had never jumped with anyone but Inu Yasha before. Kagome climbed up the ladder that her grandfather had installed for her when she first started going back and forth. Kagome's stomach growled. Glancing at her watch she saw that it was 1:15. She had been in the past all morning. Brushing the dirt from her clothes she slid open the well house door; and came face to face with a pair of amber eyes.
"You didn't come to school today."
"You're not in school either."
"I skipped out during lunch." Inu Yasha looked at her critically, "What are you doing in here anyway; it's kinda a weird place to hang out."
"I was getting my cat," Kagome answered.
Inu Yasha eyed Kagome, and then took a good look around. "This place looks so familiar. Why does it look so familiar?" He looked at Kagome, "You look familiar too, like I have known you for a long time." He walked down the wooden stairs toward Kagome, "Why can't I get you out of my head. Everything about you; the way you smell, the way you look, the way you flip your hair back, hell, the way you shoot your bow. It's all so damn familiar. Why?
Kagome sighed and walked over to him. "You said you left during lunch," she said ignoring his questions, "Have you had anything to eat?"
Inu Yasha shook his head.
"Then why don't you come inside. There is some Raman in the cupboard." She walked up the steps.
Inu Yasha followed her.
Kagome pulled out two cups of raman, and set the water to boil. She set two glasses on the table and filled them with peppermint ice tea. Working around the kitchen helped to calm her, even with Inu Yasha's golden eyes on her. They ate the raman in silence. Kagome couldn't help noticing that Inu Yasha's manners had improved quite a bit. Inu Yasha's eyes strayed to the small cat that was currently eating out of a bowl marked, "Buyou." That's an odd looking cat; I've never seen one with two tails before.
"Yeah, well.their pretty rare."
"Huh," Inu Yasha snorted, and then redirected his attention to Kagome, "I saw Kikyou talking to you yesterday."
Kagome looked at him, "Oh really?"
"Yeah. It looked like you were having a disagreement, what were you fighting about?"
Kagome shook her head, "Nothing."
"Kikyou looked too upset for it to just be nothing."
"How would you even notice," Kagome mumbled into her noodles.
"I know she doesn't show her feelings a lot, but I can tell when she is upset."
"Why don't you ask Kikyou then, if you're such good friends?"
Inu Yasha set down his bowl of raman and leaned forward over the table, "I'm asking you." He lifted his glass of ice tea and took a long drink.
"Don't you think your girlfriend is gonna be upset if she finds out your visiting other girl's homes when you should be in school?"
Chocking, Inu Yasha spewed tea across the table.
Kagome ran over to the counter and grabbed a hand full of paper towels, "Here," she said handing them to him.
"Thanks," he said weakly. It took a moment for him to regain his composure, then after he got most of the ice tea off himself and the table he asked, "Who told you she was my girlfriend?"
"She's not your girlfriend?" Kagome said, a little surprised.
Inu Yasha shook his head. "No."
"But I thought.. I mean you spend so much time together."
Inu Yasha blushed, "I said she's not my girl friend! OK."
"Oh." Kagome said.
They were quiet for a few moments; then Inu Yasha asked, "So, what did you and Kikyou fight about?"
"Do you really want to know?"
"Yeah."
"We were fighting about you."
Inu Yasha looked surprised, "Me!"
"Yeah, she didn't want me around you. You might not think of Kikyou like that, but you might want to consider how she feels about you"
Inu Yasha suddenly smiled "I've never had girls fight over me before."
Kagome gave him a piercing look, like she was seeing right through who he was and into his soul, "are you so sure you've never had girls fighting for you before?"
Inu Yasha stopped smiling, and looked confused.
"Baka," Kagome said, as she got up to take care of the dishes, "You have no idea why we were fighting. I don't think Kikyo herself knows just why we were fighting."
"There it is again."
Kagome turned around, "There what is again."
"You know something. It's like you know something that no one else does." He stepped closer to her. "What is it about you Kagome, why can't I stop thinking of you?" He leaned in to her. Kagome's eyes widened. Was he going to kiss her? Inu Yasha stopped inches from her face, his nostrils flared and his eyes opened. He gave her a confused look and stepped back.
Kagome looked up at him blushing.
"Why is my scent on you?" He stepped closer to her again and took a handful of her hair. Putting it to his nose he inhaled deeply. There was the smell of her shampoo, leave in conditioner, and the unmistakable smell that was just Kagome; but under it all was his scent, very faint, but it was still there. It confused him, and pleased him, and that confused him some more. He was still standing, holding on to Kagome's hair and looking into her face when the door opened.
"Kagome, I'm home," Kagome's mom walked in the door, "Oh goodness." Inu Yasha stepped back from her daughter, he blushed. She looked at her daughter. Kagome shook her head slightly, in a warning. "Ah..Kagome, who's your.friend?"
"Ah mom, this is Yasha, he's from school."
Inu Yasha didn't miss the way Kagome emphasized his name and the fact that he was from school.
"He heard I was sick and came to check on me.
"Well that was certainly kind of you Yasha," Mrs. Higurashi said, not missing a beat. "I just got back from the market, would you like for me to fix something to eat?"
"Ah..no thank you Mr. Higurashi, I've already eaten. He bowed to her, "I really must be going now. It was nice to meet you. I'll see you at school Kagome."
Kagome nodded and waved as Inu Yasha left.
Kagome's mom put her shopping bags on the table, "Well, why don't you help me put these things away, then I'll make some tea."
Kagome nodded, and went to help her Mom.
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Kagome told her Mom everything: about the Inu Yasha, Sango, and Miroku, about Midoriko and Kiarra, about the Shikon no Tama, about Kikyo, Sesshoumaru and Rin. The more she talked the easier it all got. Her Mom sat their, sipping her tea and listened to Kagome. When Kagome talked her self out, she gathered Kagome in her arms and hugged her. "Know this Kagome, no matter what happens, you are never alone, I will always be here for you."
Kagome clung to her mother for a moment; then pulled away, "Thanks Mom."
"Oh Kagome, from the moment you were born I knew you were special. You have a hard road ahead of you. But I know you are up to it." She looked at her daughter, pride shown in her eyes. "I love you, Kagome."
"I love you too Mom."
Kagome's Mom looked at the clock, "goodness, your brother and grandfather will be home soon. Kagome, will you set the table, while I start cooking."
Kagome smiled, "sure Mom."
"When I go to the market tomorrow I'll pick up another Cat bowl. I don't think Buyou is going to like it if your little kitten keeps using his bowl." Indeed, Boyou was giving Kiarra the evil cat eye. Kiarra was ignoring Buyou.
Kagome laughed, "That would be great Mom, thanks."
The sun was setting. The scent of flowers and fresh cut grass perfumed the air, and little pieces of fluff, from flowering plants that had gone to seed, floated in the warm air currents. In the well house, it was stuffy, and the smoke from the sandal wood incense hung in a heavy horizontal haze. The stick had burned about half way down; its cherry tip glowed in the weak light of the well house.
A cold breeze snaked its way out of the well, stirring the still, smoke laden air. It touched the tip of the incense, and the red glow brightened then went out. The smoke dissipated, helped along by the breeze. A slender white hand reached up over the lip of the well, clutching its rough wooden side. Violet eyes peered over the side, looking all around, taking in the small interior of the building. Slowly, cautiously, Kagura pulled herself out of the well. Wind ruffled the feathers in her hair, stirring a few black strands that had escaped her hair sticks. She was herself again. Naraku had re-absorbed her before his last fight with Inu Yasha. She sat hard on the packed earth, back against the well and shuddered. She had lost herself in that which was Naraku. Now she had a second chance, if she succeeded this time her prize would be freedom, true freedom. Taking a deep breath, she held it for a moment and let it out. She would not fail this time. No matter what it took she would be free.
That chapter took me a very long time to write. I kept writing and re- writing it. I'm still not sure I got it just right, but there you go. Sorry it took me almost two weeks to update, but as I have mentioned before, I usually am able to update only on the weekends, that is also when I get most of my writing done too, and the computers where I work went down last weekend, (for over three days!) and I wasn't able to get a thing done, writing or work related. (Although it wasn't all bad for me, the new Harry Potter book had just come out, so I had plenty to keep me busy. *grin*) I have a bit of more bad news for those of you who thrive on regular updates. The place where I work is sending me out West, like New Mexico out west, (I live in New England) for training, I will be gone for almost the entire month of July. I will not be able to update at all during this time, hell I won't even be able to check me e-mail. *sigh* But don't despair, I will keep writing and adding to this story, even if I have to write it all in note books and type it when I get back. I'm very sorry about this, but hey that's my job, and well.I gotta eat.
Well, what do you all think of this chapter? I've finally addressed something that has been bugging me in the anime. I just don't think that Kagome should be the reincarnation of Kikyou. I think she should be the reincarnation of Midoriko. Not that they couldn't both be the reincarnation of Midoriko, but I like my theory much better. And who hasn't wondered why only Kagome and Inu Yasha can go through the well. (These are the types of things I think about before I fall asleep at night) There is more to that well then the anime has let on yet. Also, has anyone else noticed that Rin is a lot like Kagome, I don't mean just looks either. Its something that Jinji picked up on in one of the later episodes that I watched, and it got me thinking..Hmmmm what if.. I have seen up to episode 101 or maybe 102, I forget exactly, and I look forward to seeing if any of my theories pan out.
(There you go Silver Dragon 2488 there are some of my theories of what might happen in Inu Yasha, how you like them?)
If you do know any of the secrets, you might have seen more episodes than me, or maybe it tells you in the manga, (I only have the first four issues) please DON'T tell me. I don't want any spoilers. I like to find out that stuff as I watch it.
I want to thank everyone who has taken the time out of their busy fan fiction reading time to write me a review. I love you all!
PriestessKali: Thank you very much. I would read other peoples fan fictions and think, "Hey, I don't like how they are doing that," or "I don't think that character would really act like that." So I decided that if I thought I could do a better job, then I better get off my keister and try. *grin* Anyway, I'm glad your enjoying reading it, I'm really enjoying writing it.
Taltos: Thanks, (*cough*hope this is soon enough*cough*)
Rin-chan: I guess I could have gone with just Inu instead, but that would mean his name was dog. *grin*
Trina: I hope this was quick enough. I really wish I had a computer at home. It would make life so much easier, not to mention my updates much faster.
del_kaidin: She may say sit some time in the future. Keep reading, I'm not giving away any secrets. *grin*
Lavande: I kind of like how the gossip sounded myself. I'm glad you mentioned it. I will try not to wait to long between postings.
Ccstar: Thanks for the vote of confidence. I think it's better to wait a while and get a long, well written chapter. Will Kikyou get tortured? Maybe..Maybe not. *sing song* *I'm not telling* *evil grin* Will Inu Yasha get his memory back. *Another Evil laugh* Maybe..Maybe not. I haven't decided if I'd have Kouga in this or not yet. I don't mind long reviews at all. In fact I LOVE THEM. It really lets me know what you think about my writing and gives me ideas. As well as a few good laughs. These are the kind of reviews that make me want to update faster.
Elianora: Hey Hey! Thanks so much. I hope you like what I did with this chapter.
Starlight4u: Yay! Another update! I didn't notice any delay in uploading any chapters or reading reviews. The site has been a bit temperamental lately though. Not letting me sign in and stuff. *site experiencing over load, try back later.* *Bleah* I can usually get around it though. *grin* I remember the first time someone responded to one of my reviews; it gave me a warm fuzzy feeling. I was like, "hey, they took the time to respond to me. That is sooooo coooool" I love getting reviews, and I want to make sure the people who give me the reviews know I really appreciate it.
del_kaidin: Yay, another update, *joins in on happy dance* I hope you liked this chapter. I tried to make it chock full of surprises.
I also want to give more special thanks to two more people who have added me to their favorite authors list.
Starlight4u, I like Inu Yasha all right, but I have to agree with you Vash is defiantly HOT! Of all the anime guys out there he's the one I'd most like to take home and cuddle with. *grin*
sir omes, you have a really great web page. I like your drawings, very talented. Kikyou IS a real bitch in the anime, but you gotta LOVE to HATE her. *grin* Actually, I think her character starts to get a little more sympathetic as you get further in the anime. Not much, just a little.
Wow, I wrote a lot for notes this time. Hope I didn't forget anything or anyone. See yah in a month. Nandelin
Kagome stared into the well. Half kneeling, she leaned against the rough wooden boards. The past few days weighed heavily on her mind, and she had a lot to think about. She decided not to go to school today. When Shippou had come to pick her up, she told him to go without her. He looked a little worried, but said he understood. Her Mom had told her everyone needed a mental health day now and then. Mental health day, Kagome liked the sound of that. It had a nice ring to it; mental health day. Sometimes it surprised her how understanding her mom was. She had told Kagome that if she could, not only catch up after missing weeks of school, but get very good grades in the process, then missing one day was not going to hurt her any; and may do a great deal of good. Her mind kept wandering back to her encounter with Kikyou yesterday. She knew she shouldn't let Kikyou get to her, but every time she felt a familiar ache in her shoulder, she had a hard time remembering that.
Kagome sighed and continued to stare down the well, one arm trailing lazily over the side, her cheek rested against the rough wood. Once this well house had seemed so spooky to her; now it was a place of comfort. It was warm in the well house and she could smell the wood and earth. Incense burned next to the well, sandalwood. Its smoke curled in the still air. She often lit incense as a tribute to the memory of her fallen friends. The dark depths of the well called to her. She wondered, not for the first time, if the well still worked.
Sango and Miroku, even Kikyou were reincarnations. But Inu Yasha wasn't. He may not remember his past, but he was the same person, not a reincarnation. How could he be here? Kagome wished she had someone who she could talk to about this. But the only person she knew, who might know anything about it was her grandfather, and she didn't feel like listening to his long rambling stories, which were probably all wrong anyway. Kagome lifted her cheek off the wooden board; her eyes went big as a thought formed in her mind. Grandfather was the only person she knew, who knew anything about stuff like reincarnations..in this time.
Kagome stood up, brushing her knees off. Did the well still work? Well, there was only one way to find out, and there was not time to go into the past, like the present, she thought wryly to herself. Taking a big breath she jumped. The world glowed blue around her, as she fell further than the well was deep. After a few moments, that had no time, she landed. She looked up and saw blue sky above her, instead of the wooden ceiling of the shrine. She was back.
Gripping the vines, she began to climb. She poked her head out of the well. She came face to face with a young man, she recognized him as one of the villagers. He dropped the mallet that he was holding and gave a delighted cry. "Kagome-sama, Kagome-sama, your back." Turning on his heal he took off toward the village, "Kagome-sama's back, Kagome-sama's back," he shouted. Kagome pulled herself over the lip of the well and stared after the running man.
"What was that all about?" she thought. Then looked around her, there were piles of lumber around, several of the village men had stopped their work, and stared at her, then broke into delighted smiles, just like the young man from before. Dropping their tools they bowed to Kagome and started praying. I wish they wouldn't do that, she thought, and then realized what they were building They were building a shrine. Kagome looked around amazed. They were building a shrine, she thought again. Bowing to the villagers, she started walking quickly to the village. She really needed to talk to Kaede.
As she neared the village, she saw the old woman walking toward her. "Kaede!" she shouted, and flung herself into her arms. "I missed you!" Then she burst into tears.
Kaede chuckled, "I missed you too child."
Kagome stood their holding Kaede for a good long time, then she looked up, her face tear streaked, "they're building the shrine."
"Yes, Myoga and I thought that if you are going to be here in the future, then we should start getting it ready for you.
"Myoga-jiji is here?"
"Gamyon, I will drink." The flea youki leaped off of Kaede, and landed on Kagome's cheek. Kagome felt a bite, as the flea took a drink.
*SMACK*
A squashed flea slowly floated to the ground.
"Come in Kagome," Kaede said as she lead the girl into her hut.
A small fire burned in the fire place in the middle of the hut, a small boy tended the stew bubbling in the iron pot, stirring it so that it would not burn. "Kado," Kaede said, addressing the boy, "Thank you for watching the stew, you may go play now until dinner." The small boy broke in to a wide grin and ran out of the hut. Kaede chuckled, and then said to Kagome, "Never walking, when he can run."
"Who is he Kaede?" Kagome asked.
"He is my Aunt's, daughter's son. His parents were killed a few years ago, when a raiding party rode through their town. A very tragic thing and he has been bouncing around from family member to family member. He arrived here about a month ago. I think he can finally find a permanent home here."
Kagome nodded, and then sank down on the straw mat, and Kaede sat next to her. Mygoa, hopped in the hut, and settled himself on Kagome's knee.
"I'm so glad you're both here. I have something I need to ask." Both Kaede and Myoga listened intently as Kagome told them everything that had happened since she last left.
"Hmmmm," Myoga said as Kagome finished her story. "You are sure that Inu Yasha-sama is the same person, and not a reincarnation?"
Kagome nodded, "He doesn't remember anything, but he is the same person. He even still has the prayer beads around his neck."
"Do they work?" Kaede asked.
"Uhhh, I don't know. I haven't tried to subdue him."
Both Myoga and Kaede nodded.
"Well, assuming that he is the same person, and not a reincarnation, it could be that because, Inu Yasha-sama was not dead when Kikyou took him to hell, he some how found a way to get back to you," Myoga said.
"But how?" Kagome asked.
"I do not know," Myoga said.
"And what about Kikyou? I thought I was supposed to be her reincarnation. How can she be reborn into the same time as me?"
"I did think you were the reincarnation of my sister when I first met you. You looked so much like her, and you had the Shikon no Tama in your body; but if she was truly reincarnated in your time, not just brought back to animate a dead lump of clay and bones, then there is no way that you could truly share a soul with her. As to how Inu Yasha escaped Kikyou, I can only guess at that as well. She was already dead when she went to hell, and without the Shikon no Tama, she might not have had the power to bind his soul to hers. So she was only able to reincarnate, not come back in the same body.
Kagome nodded.
"That would also explain something that has been bugging me for a long time."
"What is that Myoga-jiji?"
"Why you and Inu Yasha-sama were the only one's who were able to go though the well. If Sango and Miroku had already been reincarnated, then they could not travel to a time where their souls already were. But Inu Yasha went to hell, his soul never reincarnated, so there was nothing keeping him from crossing to your time. The same is true for you, you soul was not here in this time, so you could come back," Myoga said.
Kaede nodded as well, "That seems to make sense." Then she looked at Kagome, "You said Sango has reincarnated?"
"Yes."
"Follow me," she stood up and left the hut. Puzzled, Kagome followed. Kaede led Kagome to where Sango and Miroku's graves were. On Sango's grave, curled up in a ball was Kiarra.
"Kiarra," Kagome fell to her knees, and scooped up the little cat. She felt very light, and her fur was dull and lifeless. Kiarra started purring and rubbing Kagome with his head. "What's happened to him?"
"Ever since you left he has refused to leave Sango's grave. He stays up here all the time. It is a very sad thing. I want you to try and take him back with you. It is no good for him to stay here."
Kagome nodded, "but what if he can't get though the well?"
"If he can't, then it was not meant to be."
"I will try and take him back" she said, standing up, the little cat in her arms.
"Good, I'm afraid if he stays here much longer he will die."
Kagome stood looking down into the well, Kiarra in her arms. The little cat was already looking better. Kagome was about to jump in the well, when Kiarra jumped out of her arms. "Kiarra?" Kagome said.
Energy whirled around the cat and he grew. Looking at Kagome, he indicated his back with a gesture of his head. Puzzled Kagome climbed on his back. With a leap, Kiarra flew through the air. The landscape passed quickly under them. Where was Kiarra taking her, Kagome wondered. Soon Kiarra landed outside a large cave. It looked very familiar. A blue shimmer at the entrance confirmed her suspicions. The shield tingled a little when she stepped though it, Kiarra at her side. She continued to the heart of the cave, to the statue of the miko she knew was there.
She stood looking at the long dead miko, surrounded by the bodies of youkai. A single strand of soul energy shot out from the Shikon no Tama and surrounded the frozen statue. Still connected to Kagome, an iridescent figure, blue-ish in color and shimery, stepped out from the statue and walked toward her. "Midoriko," Kagome whispered.
"Kagome," Midoriko the miko said. "I'm glad you came. I could not talk to you without you coming here, to where I died."
"Why am I here?"
"You remember what you wear around you neck?" Kagome touched the Shikon no Tama. "Do you remember what Sango said, all those years ago, about why the Shikon no Tama was made?"
"It is your heart. In order to defeat the youki you took them into your self and sealed them in your heart."
Midoriko smiled, "Yes, the Shikon no Tama is my heart and spirit; Arami Tama, Kikimi-Tama, Fushigi Tama, and Sakimi-Tama: courage, friendship, wisdom and love. When the people of this village recovered the Shikon no Tama, they entrusted it to a Miko to help me in my battle to purify the evil youki energy"
"Kikyou," Kagome whispered.
"Yes Kikyou." But she died in the protecting of it, died in a trap. When the Shikon no Tama burned with her, it released it in to the world of the souls. It released me to the world of the souls. I had to allow my self to be reincarnated, in order to continue the battle. Otherwise the youki energy would also have been released. So I was reborn, reborn into a new body and a new mind
Kagome listened wide eyed.
"The reason I tell you this Kagome, is that you are that person. You are my reincarnation. The Shikon no Tama is not just my heart, but yours as well. You were the only one who could shatter it, but you were the only one who could really make it truly whole again. No one else. Only you."
"But what about Kikyou? Aren't I her reincarnation?"
"The reason you look so much like Kikyou and have the same type of energy is because you are descended from her line. I remembered Kikyou, she was a good Miko and a good person when she lived. I choose to be born as one of her descendents. You are descended from her blood line, from one of her cousins, but you do not share a soul with her. However, because of that bond, she was able to use part of your soul, to reanimate that semblance of herself.for a while. When she took Inu Yasha to hell with her, that part of your soul was released and returned. You did not notice it, because of the grief you had for your friends, but when Inu Yasha threw you the Shikon no Tama, and you took back what was yours."
"I'm descended from Kikyou?" Was all Kagome could think to say.
"Yes, I believe you met the young man who is one of you ancestors today."
"Kado." Then a really odd thought came to her. "I was talking to Rin yesterday, and she said that she married the cousin of a village elder that she stayed with; the same village elder that had taken care of Shippou." She chewed her bottom lip thoughtfully, "does that mean I'm descended from Rin as well?"
"It is very possible."
Kagome nodded and fingered the Shikon no Tama, it felt warm under her touch. She looked up at the glowing figure of Midoriko, with more questions burning in her eyes."
Midoriko smiled again and said, "The Shikon no Tama is a part of you, like it was a part of me when I lived. I am also a part of you. You are the only one who can use the power of the Shikon no Tama without being corrupted by the youki energy that helped create it. Once it is purified, you will reclaim the power that I had to use to create it." She looked at Kagome, pride shining in her eyes, "You have grown far more than I ever could have and will be more powerful than I ever imagined. You alone have the power to purify the jewel. Although," she added, "you do not have to be alone to do it."
Kagome nodded, "How do I finish purifying it?"
"When you find a way, you will know. I wish I could tell you more." She said sadly. "There is one more thing that I do need to tell you, though; Strong emotions can be carried from life to life, love, hate and friendship. Kikyou may remember the hate she had for you, just like Miroku and Sango may remember you friendship. Be very careful with this. None of them will have the memories of your previous life together.
"What about Inu Yasha," Kagome whispered.
"When Inu Yasha tore the jewel from Kikyou's neck he made a wish, he may not have realized it, but he wanted nothing more than to be with you. It was a pure wish, made with a pure heart, so the Shikon no Tama granted it."
"And now he is in my world," Kagome finished.
Midoriko smiled, "yes, he is."
"But why can't he remember his past?"
"When you go thorough the well, it is a very easy trip, the well was made with a time tree, and the path is well marked, but Inu Yasha moved through time a much more difficult way. I am not surprised if he can not remember his life from before. That type of time travel will often have that effect."
"Will he ever remember?"
"I don't know. Mayhap in time he will, especially with you there to help remind him." The smoky form that made up Midoriko looked down at the little youkai cat, curled up at Kagome's feet. "Please take Kiarra back with you, his soul would wither and die here now. He served me faithfully for many years, and was their when I died. Since then, he stayed in this village helping to protect the people. Now that they are all dead, there is nothing for him here anymore. May he find happiness in your time. I have told you all that I can, all that I can help you with to finish our task.except this." She reached out and touched Kagome's cheek with her hand. "I am honored to be part of your soul, Kagome."
The energy flowed back into Kagome; back into the Shikon no Tama. While Kagome could no longer see Midoriko, she could feel her presence inside of her, a part of her. She knew that Midoriko was not a separate person, but part of who she was; part of Kagome. Back straight, she left the cave, to face the world, Kiarra by her side.
Kagome landed with a thump, Kiarra safely in her arms. "Well, it looks like you are meant to come back with me. Maybe she was just imagining things, but this time, when she had jumped in the well, she had felt a cold chill up her spine. Shivering slightly she shook off the feeling. It was probably just because Kirrara was with her; she had never jumped with anyone but Inu Yasha before. Kagome climbed up the ladder that her grandfather had installed for her when she first started going back and forth. Kagome's stomach growled. Glancing at her watch she saw that it was 1:15. She had been in the past all morning. Brushing the dirt from her clothes she slid open the well house door; and came face to face with a pair of amber eyes.
"You didn't come to school today."
"You're not in school either."
"I skipped out during lunch." Inu Yasha looked at her critically, "What are you doing in here anyway; it's kinda a weird place to hang out."
"I was getting my cat," Kagome answered.
Inu Yasha eyed Kagome, and then took a good look around. "This place looks so familiar. Why does it look so familiar?" He looked at Kagome, "You look familiar too, like I have known you for a long time." He walked down the wooden stairs toward Kagome, "Why can't I get you out of my head. Everything about you; the way you smell, the way you look, the way you flip your hair back, hell, the way you shoot your bow. It's all so damn familiar. Why?
Kagome sighed and walked over to him. "You said you left during lunch," she said ignoring his questions, "Have you had anything to eat?"
Inu Yasha shook his head.
"Then why don't you come inside. There is some Raman in the cupboard." She walked up the steps.
Inu Yasha followed her.
Kagome pulled out two cups of raman, and set the water to boil. She set two glasses on the table and filled them with peppermint ice tea. Working around the kitchen helped to calm her, even with Inu Yasha's golden eyes on her. They ate the raman in silence. Kagome couldn't help noticing that Inu Yasha's manners had improved quite a bit. Inu Yasha's eyes strayed to the small cat that was currently eating out of a bowl marked, "Buyou." That's an odd looking cat; I've never seen one with two tails before.
"Yeah, well.their pretty rare."
"Huh," Inu Yasha snorted, and then redirected his attention to Kagome, "I saw Kikyou talking to you yesterday."
Kagome looked at him, "Oh really?"
"Yeah. It looked like you were having a disagreement, what were you fighting about?"
Kagome shook her head, "Nothing."
"Kikyou looked too upset for it to just be nothing."
"How would you even notice," Kagome mumbled into her noodles.
"I know she doesn't show her feelings a lot, but I can tell when she is upset."
"Why don't you ask Kikyou then, if you're such good friends?"
Inu Yasha set down his bowl of raman and leaned forward over the table, "I'm asking you." He lifted his glass of ice tea and took a long drink.
"Don't you think your girlfriend is gonna be upset if she finds out your visiting other girl's homes when you should be in school?"
Chocking, Inu Yasha spewed tea across the table.
Kagome ran over to the counter and grabbed a hand full of paper towels, "Here," she said handing them to him.
"Thanks," he said weakly. It took a moment for him to regain his composure, then after he got most of the ice tea off himself and the table he asked, "Who told you she was my girlfriend?"
"She's not your girlfriend?" Kagome said, a little surprised.
Inu Yasha shook his head. "No."
"But I thought.. I mean you spend so much time together."
Inu Yasha blushed, "I said she's not my girl friend! OK."
"Oh." Kagome said.
They were quiet for a few moments; then Inu Yasha asked, "So, what did you and Kikyou fight about?"
"Do you really want to know?"
"Yeah."
"We were fighting about you."
Inu Yasha looked surprised, "Me!"
"Yeah, she didn't want me around you. You might not think of Kikyou like that, but you might want to consider how she feels about you"
Inu Yasha suddenly smiled "I've never had girls fight over me before."
Kagome gave him a piercing look, like she was seeing right through who he was and into his soul, "are you so sure you've never had girls fighting for you before?"
Inu Yasha stopped smiling, and looked confused.
"Baka," Kagome said, as she got up to take care of the dishes, "You have no idea why we were fighting. I don't think Kikyo herself knows just why we were fighting."
"There it is again."
Kagome turned around, "There what is again."
"You know something. It's like you know something that no one else does." He stepped closer to her. "What is it about you Kagome, why can't I stop thinking of you?" He leaned in to her. Kagome's eyes widened. Was he going to kiss her? Inu Yasha stopped inches from her face, his nostrils flared and his eyes opened. He gave her a confused look and stepped back.
Kagome looked up at him blushing.
"Why is my scent on you?" He stepped closer to her again and took a handful of her hair. Putting it to his nose he inhaled deeply. There was the smell of her shampoo, leave in conditioner, and the unmistakable smell that was just Kagome; but under it all was his scent, very faint, but it was still there. It confused him, and pleased him, and that confused him some more. He was still standing, holding on to Kagome's hair and looking into her face when the door opened.
"Kagome, I'm home," Kagome's mom walked in the door, "Oh goodness." Inu Yasha stepped back from her daughter, he blushed. She looked at her daughter. Kagome shook her head slightly, in a warning. "Ah..Kagome, who's your.friend?"
"Ah mom, this is Yasha, he's from school."
Inu Yasha didn't miss the way Kagome emphasized his name and the fact that he was from school.
"He heard I was sick and came to check on me.
"Well that was certainly kind of you Yasha," Mrs. Higurashi said, not missing a beat. "I just got back from the market, would you like for me to fix something to eat?"
"Ah..no thank you Mr. Higurashi, I've already eaten. He bowed to her, "I really must be going now. It was nice to meet you. I'll see you at school Kagome."
Kagome nodded and waved as Inu Yasha left.
Kagome's mom put her shopping bags on the table, "Well, why don't you help me put these things away, then I'll make some tea."
Kagome nodded, and went to help her Mom.
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Kagome told her Mom everything: about the Inu Yasha, Sango, and Miroku, about Midoriko and Kiarra, about the Shikon no Tama, about Kikyo, Sesshoumaru and Rin. The more she talked the easier it all got. Her Mom sat their, sipping her tea and listened to Kagome. When Kagome talked her self out, she gathered Kagome in her arms and hugged her. "Know this Kagome, no matter what happens, you are never alone, I will always be here for you."
Kagome clung to her mother for a moment; then pulled away, "Thanks Mom."
"Oh Kagome, from the moment you were born I knew you were special. You have a hard road ahead of you. But I know you are up to it." She looked at her daughter, pride shown in her eyes. "I love you, Kagome."
"I love you too Mom."
Kagome's Mom looked at the clock, "goodness, your brother and grandfather will be home soon. Kagome, will you set the table, while I start cooking."
Kagome smiled, "sure Mom."
"When I go to the market tomorrow I'll pick up another Cat bowl. I don't think Buyou is going to like it if your little kitten keeps using his bowl." Indeed, Boyou was giving Kiarra the evil cat eye. Kiarra was ignoring Buyou.
Kagome laughed, "That would be great Mom, thanks."
The sun was setting. The scent of flowers and fresh cut grass perfumed the air, and little pieces of fluff, from flowering plants that had gone to seed, floated in the warm air currents. In the well house, it was stuffy, and the smoke from the sandal wood incense hung in a heavy horizontal haze. The stick had burned about half way down; its cherry tip glowed in the weak light of the well house.
A cold breeze snaked its way out of the well, stirring the still, smoke laden air. It touched the tip of the incense, and the red glow brightened then went out. The smoke dissipated, helped along by the breeze. A slender white hand reached up over the lip of the well, clutching its rough wooden side. Violet eyes peered over the side, looking all around, taking in the small interior of the building. Slowly, cautiously, Kagura pulled herself out of the well. Wind ruffled the feathers in her hair, stirring a few black strands that had escaped her hair sticks. She was herself again. Naraku had re-absorbed her before his last fight with Inu Yasha. She sat hard on the packed earth, back against the well and shuddered. She had lost herself in that which was Naraku. Now she had a second chance, if she succeeded this time her prize would be freedom, true freedom. Taking a deep breath, she held it for a moment and let it out. She would not fail this time. No matter what it took she would be free.
That chapter took me a very long time to write. I kept writing and re- writing it. I'm still not sure I got it just right, but there you go. Sorry it took me almost two weeks to update, but as I have mentioned before, I usually am able to update only on the weekends, that is also when I get most of my writing done too, and the computers where I work went down last weekend, (for over three days!) and I wasn't able to get a thing done, writing or work related. (Although it wasn't all bad for me, the new Harry Potter book had just come out, so I had plenty to keep me busy. *grin*) I have a bit of more bad news for those of you who thrive on regular updates. The place where I work is sending me out West, like New Mexico out west, (I live in New England) for training, I will be gone for almost the entire month of July. I will not be able to update at all during this time, hell I won't even be able to check me e-mail. *sigh* But don't despair, I will keep writing and adding to this story, even if I have to write it all in note books and type it when I get back. I'm very sorry about this, but hey that's my job, and well.I gotta eat.
Well, what do you all think of this chapter? I've finally addressed something that has been bugging me in the anime. I just don't think that Kagome should be the reincarnation of Kikyou. I think she should be the reincarnation of Midoriko. Not that they couldn't both be the reincarnation of Midoriko, but I like my theory much better. And who hasn't wondered why only Kagome and Inu Yasha can go through the well. (These are the types of things I think about before I fall asleep at night) There is more to that well then the anime has let on yet. Also, has anyone else noticed that Rin is a lot like Kagome, I don't mean just looks either. Its something that Jinji picked up on in one of the later episodes that I watched, and it got me thinking..Hmmmm what if.. I have seen up to episode 101 or maybe 102, I forget exactly, and I look forward to seeing if any of my theories pan out.
(There you go Silver Dragon 2488 there are some of my theories of what might happen in Inu Yasha, how you like them?)
If you do know any of the secrets, you might have seen more episodes than me, or maybe it tells you in the manga, (I only have the first four issues) please DON'T tell me. I don't want any spoilers. I like to find out that stuff as I watch it.
I want to thank everyone who has taken the time out of their busy fan fiction reading time to write me a review. I love you all!
PriestessKali: Thank you very much. I would read other peoples fan fictions and think, "Hey, I don't like how they are doing that," or "I don't think that character would really act like that." So I decided that if I thought I could do a better job, then I better get off my keister and try. *grin* Anyway, I'm glad your enjoying reading it, I'm really enjoying writing it.
Taltos: Thanks, (*cough*hope this is soon enough*cough*)
Rin-chan: I guess I could have gone with just Inu instead, but that would mean his name was dog. *grin*
Trina: I hope this was quick enough. I really wish I had a computer at home. It would make life so much easier, not to mention my updates much faster.
del_kaidin: She may say sit some time in the future. Keep reading, I'm not giving away any secrets. *grin*
Lavande: I kind of like how the gossip sounded myself. I'm glad you mentioned it. I will try not to wait to long between postings.
Ccstar: Thanks for the vote of confidence. I think it's better to wait a while and get a long, well written chapter. Will Kikyou get tortured? Maybe..Maybe not. *sing song* *I'm not telling* *evil grin* Will Inu Yasha get his memory back. *Another Evil laugh* Maybe..Maybe not. I haven't decided if I'd have Kouga in this or not yet. I don't mind long reviews at all. In fact I LOVE THEM. It really lets me know what you think about my writing and gives me ideas. As well as a few good laughs. These are the kind of reviews that make me want to update faster.
Elianora: Hey Hey! Thanks so much. I hope you like what I did with this chapter.
Starlight4u: Yay! Another update! I didn't notice any delay in uploading any chapters or reading reviews. The site has been a bit temperamental lately though. Not letting me sign in and stuff. *site experiencing over load, try back later.* *Bleah* I can usually get around it though. *grin* I remember the first time someone responded to one of my reviews; it gave me a warm fuzzy feeling. I was like, "hey, they took the time to respond to me. That is sooooo coooool" I love getting reviews, and I want to make sure the people who give me the reviews know I really appreciate it.
del_kaidin: Yay, another update, *joins in on happy dance* I hope you liked this chapter. I tried to make it chock full of surprises.
I also want to give more special thanks to two more people who have added me to their favorite authors list.
Starlight4u, I like Inu Yasha all right, but I have to agree with you Vash is defiantly HOT! Of all the anime guys out there he's the one I'd most like to take home and cuddle with. *grin*
sir omes, you have a really great web page. I like your drawings, very talented. Kikyou IS a real bitch in the anime, but you gotta LOVE to HATE her. *grin* Actually, I think her character starts to get a little more sympathetic as you get further in the anime. Not much, just a little.
Wow, I wrote a lot for notes this time. Hope I didn't forget anything or anyone. See yah in a month. Nandelin