Readers--I'm making this short. Thanks for reviewing, please remember to do so again....and again! I'm sooo getting drunk on power, this is wicked!
pruningshears: everyone is obsessed with the ears because...well...that's one of the great questions of life. There are five great questions and #5 on the list is Why are Inuyasha's ears so tweakable? (#4 is why do hotdogs come in packages of eight and buns come in packages of ten? #3 is why are the skinny Japanese guys always the winners of the Nathan's hotdog eating contest? #2 is Why is the earth called round when it's actually oval? And the #1 unanswerable question in the world, at least according to me and my friends, is Why is all the rum gone? P.O.T.C. analogy there, Jack Sparrow is another of my role models) So just think of it as one of those unsolved mysteries.
Disclaimer: Me? Own Inuyasha? I don't, but if your offering.....
Chapter 7:
Kagome vs. Kagura
The afternoon was basically made up of arguments and weapons practice. Of course, my place was too small for the kind of practice the girls were sued to, so we went to an abandoned building down the street from my apartment. It was here that Miroku and I usually worked out, if we felt that our skills were slipping.
Kagome set up a small target at one end of the room and proceeded to shook every arrow in her quiver, one after the other, from the other side of the building. All of them hit the target until not a piece of the cardboard was visible without a hole of some kind. Miroku and I were impressed...very much.
Sango practiced herself for a while, reflexing dozens of intricate fencing stances, defensive and offensive alike. When Kagome finished archery practice, she pulled that long dagger she took from Sango and the girls proceeded to spar. Miroku and I watched while leaning against the wall. I was humbled fast. Despite Kagome saying she wasn't good at the simple moves Sango taught her, she blew me away. Her speed was incredible and although it was obvious that Sango was more experienced with a blade, there was still a good fight.
When they finished, both panting, they looked over at us. "Aren't you going to play?" Sango called. "You should get a feel for those weapons I gave you. Going into battle with a fresh sword, or staff, can get you killed."
I knew that. So did Miroku. We were just too busy being flabbergasted to form thoughts, actions, or words. Sango was the one to challenged me to a bought. "One swordsman to another," she said with a feral smile. I got a little nervous, but I had used a sword before. I've had experience with a lot of weapons.
Kagome forced Miroku into a corner until he agreed to fight with her, but he was begging forgiveness in advance if her hurt her, stating he would never go easy on a woman just because of gender. The smile on both of the girls' faces led me to believe that he was about to get a severe ass-kicking.
My attention was once more on Sango as she circled me like a cat ready to pounce on a rat. Her eyes watched ever subtle move I made, the eyes of a trained warrior. It's what I expected from the body guard of the Guardian of the Jewel. I unsheathed my new sword, hers already in hand. I crouched low to the ground, her style mimicking mine. Then we both froze, bodies tense for action. She made the first move, leaping forward, blade raised. I parried easily, backing a few steps away.
Her reflexes were sharp, being the sword back around for another attack. I blocked again, this time bringing my sword up to form a blow at her. It was a quick series of actions. She'd attack and I'd block, then I'd attack and she'd block. We were evenly matched. Sango noticed this as well. That's when she activated the dagger she had hidden on her wrist and swung it at my stomach. I blocked, moving fast to block her sword as well.
"Damn," I muttered. "Are you trying to kill me, wench?" I asked her, blocking another double-blow attack. She laughed at me, back a few steps away.
"I'm not holding back. Enemies won't hold back to get at Kagome," she said solidly before rushing me. I did some fancy foot work right then, thanking my lucky stars that I had half-demon speed, and jumped over her head. I rolled and was on my feet behind her in a second, blade at the side of her throat.
"No fair using demon powers," she whined, but I saw the sparkle in her eyes.
"No fair using a hidden blade," I taunted, sheathing my sword again.
"Uh...Inuyasha....Sango?" We both turned to look at Miroku. Kagome was sitting cross-legged on the ground, sharpening her dagger, bow and quiver at her side. Miroku was pinned to the wall by a series of arrows, making it impossible for him to move unless he was let down. "A little help here?"
"Hi Miroku," I said, pulling out one of the arrows. "How's it hanging?"
"Oh yeah, you're such a comedian." I snickered, helping him down. He went over to where Sango was now seated besides Kagome. "You are truly a scary girl Kagome," he said, respect in his eyes. She looked up at him with a smirk.
"Don't you forget it," she said. I had my arms crossed, content for the moment, when I noticed the sun was setting.
"Whoa, Miroku, time to split." He looked up as well.
"I'm afraid I have to leave you ladies," he said in such a forlorn voice that I sighed. "But never fear for I shall return to your side tomorrow." With that, I physically pushed him from the room. Sango and Kagome followed slowly. Back at my place, the three of us took turns using the shower. Kagome fixed us some Ramen for dinner. Sango made a face. She's not the Ramen kind, but she ate without complaint. I bowed out of respect to the Queen of Ramen. She shoved me out of the way, laughingly. This domestic scene gave me shivers when I laid down for bed and thought about it.
I know now why breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It's the one you want to eat more then any other because its just after you regain consciousness. Ah, the aroma of food. I know I really shouldn't get used to having a breakfast every morning, what with Kagome not going to be here that long and all, but its hard not to hope you'll wake up to that scent every day. Today's breakfast was smaller, quicker, but still delectable.
Sango sat at the table, a coffee mug in hand, looking very refreshed. Kagome sat with her and then poured me a cup when they saw I was awake. "Sleep good?" she asked me.
"Like I rock," I said, drinking the offered liquid before shoving my face into the awaiting food. Have I mentioned before that I love food? I mean, growing up on the streets, you live on as little as you can to avoid confrontation. But as an adult, with a somewhat unsteady income, but at least a home of my own, food is mostly what I splurge on. Especially the food of the Gods, Ramen. Now I know I've said this before, but I like having Kagome here if only to assure myself that there are people out there that like Ramen as much as I do. Makes one feel fuzzy on the inside, but I shook that away quick. Sometime after the coffee and the food, there was a knock on the door. Kagome went to let Miroku in, but he wasn't alone.
"I found this little guy wandering around outside, saying he was looking for Sango and Kagome," he explained, pointing to a small boy at his side. The kid was small, and a demon. He had busy brown hair, as well as a tail. He couldn't have been more then eight or so. He wore an armband like the one Kouga had, so I figured this was his messenger.
"Hi Kagome, hi Sango," he said with a wave. Both girls waved and Kagome went to greet him, picking him up in her arms.
"Shippou, I'm happy you didn't get lost!" she said, giving the boy a hug. "Did Kouga send you with a message?" He nodded, hopping from her grasp to the floor.
"He wanted to come himself, but Spike returned from the Heart of the City last night pretty beat up and he needed to stay with him. Patch didn't make it." Both girls and the boy looked grim.
"I take it those were Kouga's spies," I asked Sango. She nodded.
"He sent in Spike and Patch, his two most loyal friends, to keep an eye on the Golem's movements. They disappeared a few days ago and we figured that they had been captured. This confirms it." Shippou hopped up on to Kagome's vacant chair and grabbed some food, stuffing his face before continuing.
"Spike told us some pretty scary stuff last night. It seems that Naraku has called back all the demons he has searching for you until the pretense of you being his 'lost sister.' Every one of the Golems and their allies seem to be gathering in the Heart of the City for some reason. Spike and Patch weren't able to find out what reason that was before they were captured."
"Hmm," Kagome mused. "Why would Naraku be calling everyone to the city heart? I know he desires the Jewel, and me, but I didn't think he would go to such lengths to get it. I had hoped once I disappeared he'd let it go."
"No," Shippou said, shaking his small head. For some reason, he smelled of wolves, but not like a wolf. He was a member of the Wolf Pack, but the closer I looked at him, the less wolf-like he appeared. "Naraku knows you're still in the city somewhere, but he hasn't figured out where your hiding. It's getting him frustrated and angry."
Sango got to her feet. "Maybe we should leave the city Kagome," she blurted. "Your family would understand, you have to protect the Jewel. Father and Kohaku know I need to stay by your side. We could get out of here, go somewhere else...and...and..." Kagome shook her head. A single tear rolled down Sango's face, startling me.
"I can't run away Sango. It is my duty, as the Guardian of the Shikon Jewel. I have to end Naraku's life so that he can no longer plague this city. It has been the cause of my family for many years. But I can't ask you do help me Sango. If you come with me, it has to be what you want."
"Of course it is!" Sango cried, suddenly throwing her arms around Kagome. "I'd be a baka! I can't leave you alone for five minutes or you'll get yourself killed!" Kagome laughed, hugging her back.
"That goes for you guys too. I have to do this, but you don't." Kagome looked to me and Miroku.
"I thought we already went over this," I said with a raised eyebrow. "I got dragged into this. I'm not gonna be left hanging. I'm seeing it threw." I drank more of my coffee like I didn't just sign my own death warrant. But I told Kouga I'd protect this girl, and I wanted to do it.
"That goes for me to," Miroku said. Sango looked at him with admiration and gratefulness. We were all silent for a moment.
"Um, I still haven't finished my message," Shippou said, looking back up at Kagome and Sango. "Kouga wanted me to tell you most of all that only one Golem is still on the streets."
Kagome looked at Shippou and sighed knowingly. "Kagura, am I right?" she asked.
"Yeah. She's looking for you as we speak, and I'm pretty sure she'll find you. Naraku sent her to bring you to the City Heart, that's what Spike said before he passed out last night."
"Oh no Kagome," Sango breathed, looking afraid.
"Don't worry Sango, I'll just have to get her before she can get me." With that said, she calmly strapped on her quiver, picking her bow up from the corner and going to the door. "Shippou, can you give Kouga a message from me?"
He hopped over to her and nodded. "Thank him for the heads up, and tell him to see if he can find out anything more about the gathering in the Heart of the City. Also, tell Spike to get well, and my condolences for Patch."
"I'll tell him. Good luck Kagome." I could see his eyes sparkling with tears and he hugged her leg before scampering off into the street.
"I hope he finds his way home alright," I muttered.
"Oh he will," Sango said. "That fox kit knows the whole city like the back of his paw." Fox, that explained it. I didn't comment however, watching Kagome look out the door and at the sky.
"I can feel her coming," she said idly, no fear at all. "She should be at the house in about ten minutes."
"Shall we move to a better ground?" Sango asked, strapping on her sword and wrist dagger.
"Yes, it won't do to fight in Inuyasha's apartment." I watched this going on like it was in slow motion. Miroku had the same clueless look on his face. Sango went out the door but Kagome lingered.
"We'll be back in a little while. Kagura is almost here and we have to take care of her first." Then she calmly closed the door. Hold the phone! Did she just say what I think she said? Is the girlfriend of the most powerful demon in this city, and one hella power bitch herself, about to do battle with Kagome and Sango? DID I MISS SOMETHING?
"Come on Miroku!" I yelled, grabbing my sword and running after them. He was on my heels. The girls were walking calmly toward the building we were fighting in yesterday. Miroku and I gave chase. "What the hell are you thinking?" I yelled at them.
"What?" Kagome asked. I saw she was looking non-to-pleased. I didn't know if it was at me or just in general. "I just need to take care of her."
"Just like that?"
"Just like that." She brushed past me, heading up the stairs of the building to the roof. Sango following her, head high. I swallowed, eyes wide. They were really freaking me out. Miroku looked the same as me.
"What are they gonna do?" he asked me. I shrugged, simply watching. Kagome took off her quiver for a moment to shrug out of her sweatshirt. Underneath was a plain tank top. She wore a pair of sweat pants too, I guess they have freer movement then jeans. She strapped leather wrist guards on both her arms, then returned the quiver to her shoulder and the long dagger to her side.
Sango was already dressed in her leather armor like the day before, her sword at her hip, the wrist dagger in place. I also caught the glare of a pair of throwing daggers, hidden in the rim of each of her boots. Both girls whipped out a tie to keep their hair out of their faces. Sango stretched both of her legs as Kagome hopped up and down, flexing her arms. I caught a glimpse of the Jewel at her throat.
"I'm a little afraid about this," Miroku whispered to me.
"Me too," I said just as quietly. As if any loud noise might break the tension surrounding both girls. Then Kagome stilled, eyes in the sky. I followed her gaze and saw her too. Then the smell hit me, the smell of a Golem. It was so distinct, so vile I coughed. The smell of a demon.
"She's here," Kagome said unnecessarily. All eyes were already on the demon woman as she landed gracefully on the roof top.
"You're Kagome, the Guardian of the Shikon Jewel, yes?" she asked in a rather bored voice, picking up the feather that she had just ridden in on and sticking it into her hair.
"You're Kagura," was Kagome's reply, stepping toward her.
"Let's make this quick, alright? I have to bring you back to Naraku in one piece or he'll be even more pissy then he already is. Frankly, I don't have time to play with you, but I see you won't come without a fight."
"I intend to remain where I am," Kagome said, bow clenched in her hand.
"Whatever," Kagura said with a yawn, pulling a fan out from a pocket hidden in her jacket before shrugging off the bulky gang symbol. "Let's play." There was a sinister glint in her eyes that I seriously didn't like, but Kagome was unfazed. Her dark eyes were cold and so unlike they were before. It struck something in me, something cold in their depths. This wasn't Kagome as I knew her. This was the true Guardian.
Before I had time to blink, Kagome had notched an arrow and let it fly at Kagura. The demon seemed to be expecting this because she opened the fan and brought it down quickly, releasing some kind of wind energy that snapped the arrow in two. Kagome shot off two more arrows that glowed with energy, hoping to catch the demon off guard as Sango ran to the left, throwing both of her hidden daggers.
Kagura blocked the arrows easily, but the daggers caught her by surprise, forcing her to dodge, giving Kagome the opportunity to run up and shoot again. Kagura let out a growl of annoyance as she leapt to her feet, and twirling her fan in a motion that sent a small wind tornado Kagome's way, blowing apart the arrow she had shot. I froze, ready to jump out and grab the girl out of the way, but Kagome shot a power-filled arrow and dispelled the tornado.
"Impressive, as I would expect from the Guardian," Kagura said, circling Kagome warily. Sango, meanwhile, was hiding back, her sword drawn and poised for the attack.
"As are your skills, Wind-User," Kagome countered. Kagura smiled smugly.
"My reputation precedes me. I'm so happy you've heard of me." Kagome didn't dignify that with a response. There was an arrow notched and ready at her bow, but she didn't let it fly. There was a blur of movement to the left of them as Sango rushed Kagura.
Kagura closed the fan quickly, using it to block the sword that was meant to cut her. She pushed Sango back, and just narrowly avoided the arrow Kagome had sent at her. The arrow ricocheted off the wall near me and Miroku, causing us to duck lower on the stairwell.
Kagura brought her fan down in a sweeping motion several times, releasing four mini tornados that were bound for Sango. She managed to sidestep the first two, but the third hit her in the side, sending her to the ground. Kagome quickly shot an arrow to dispel the fourth before it could hit her wounded friend, but this was the opening Kagura needed. She rushed Kagome before she could notch a new arrow.
Kagome threw the bow aside, pulling her long dagger and forcing Kagura to jump back. The long distance weapon would no longer help her in a close range face-off. Kagura opened her fan, sending a few more of those wind blades that she had used on Kagome's arrows, but the Guardian avoided them all. She could even block them with the dagger, the blade glowing with the same energy she had infused with her arrows, but a lighter color. Her dagger was not as powerful as her arrows.
By this time, Sango was on her feet again, ready to pounce at Kagura, but Kagome's voice stopped her. "Don't Sango! You're hurt, go wait by the others."
"Others?" Kagura purred. "Naraku knew you needed help to survive. You truly are a weak Guardian, aren't you?" Kagome's eyes remained the same deadly and empty dark pits they had been since the beginning. The words meant nothing.
"Go Sango," she said, not even sparing a glance. Sango limped over toward us. The closer she got, the stronger the scent of blood was in the air. There was a bloody trail dripping down her leg from an open wound on her side. Miroku paled, leaping from the safety of the stairwell to grab her and pull her down beside us. He took off his shirt, pressing it to her side. Sango whimpered as she held her blood covered hand over his. I turned back to the fight.
Kagura and Kagome circled one another. Kagome took a few steps closer to her opponent, not giving her enough room to launch any more of those wind blades. Kagura noticed this as well, her face looking nasty. In a split second, she rushed Kagome. I held my breath, ready to yell out her name, but it was too late. The fight was already over.
(Author's Notes: You see, if I was an evil author, I could just leave it like this. But because I am as eager to write this as you are to read it, I'm gonna be nice. *love and peace*)
Kagome's dagger had been forced aside a few feet across the roof. I watched in horror as Kagura didn't stop, making to slay Kagome with the folded fan that looked about as sharp as any blade, but she stopped short. For a few unbelievably excruciatingly long seconds, everything was still. The slight breeze on the roof ruffled Kagura's hair as she blocked Kagome from my view.
"Kagome," I whispered, thinking the worst. Blaming myself for being a baka and not jumping in when Sango got hurt. She was dead, to be brought back to Naraku with the Jewel. She was just a girl, just an 18-year-old girl. And I remembered her words from the other night echoing in my brain.
~~Flashback~~
'You and me are a lot a like Inuyasha. When you mother died, you didn't know what your future was, almost like you didn't have one. When I was born, my entire future was already planned out for me. Neither of us really had much of a choice to get us where we are, other then to just live.'
~~Flashback~~
"Kagome!" I yelled this time, not really sure why. I jumped to my feet, racing across the roof as fast as I could, but halfway across, I froze. Kagura pitched forward, then slumped to the side. Kagome stood there, perfectly unharmed except for three bloody scratched across her cheek. I saw the shafts of two arrows sticking out of Kagura's chest as her body began to fade into a dusty outline of her shape. She had been killed by Kagome's arrows, even without a bow. Kagome watched her, her hands still held out in front of her from where they had stabbed her, shaking slightly.
I finally regained movement in my legs as I closed the distance between me and her. She didn't look at me, eyes still looking at where Kagura once was. "Kagome?" I asked quietly. She looked up at me, eyes like they were supposed to be. There was no trace of the cold Guardian, there was just Kagome in her eyes. "Are you alright?" I asked, brushing my claws carefully over her bleeding cheek.
"I killed her," she said quietly. I nodded. She nodded back at me. "I think I need a drink," she said. I gave a half smile, putting an arm around her shoulders and helping her across the roof. She paused to retrieve her bow and dagger, but left the arrows.
When we got back to the stairwell, she knelt at Sango's side, tenderly touching her wound. "Kagome, you won huh?" Sango asked with a smirk.
"Yeah, thanks," she said, helping Sango up.
"Anytime." Sango draped and arm over Kagome's shoulders, Miroku still holding his shirt to her wound. I followed at the rear as we returned to my apartment. Kagome dropped her weapons just inside the door, rushing into the bathroom for medical supplies, then grabbing a shirt from her bag and ripping it to shreds. "I'm ok Kagome, it's just a flesh wound."
"Shut up Sango," she said with a smile, taking Miroku's shirt away and peeling back the blood-dried cloth. I led Miroku into the kitchen while Kagome helped her friend, just so Miroku wouldn't get in the way. He looked really scared, face pale. I grabbed one of my shirts and tossed it at him.
"Here, put that on before you scare the girls."
"Ha ha," he said without much feeling, shrugging on the shirt. We sat in silence for a few minutes before Kagome came into the kitchen with us. She didn't say anything, just went to make coffee.
"She lost blood," her voice was soft. Both me and Miroku jumped and looked up at her. "She'll be ok with some rest. She's in your bed Inuyasha, so you'll have to sleep on the floor tonight."
"No problem," I said, not really knowing what to say. Miroku got up from the table abruptly.
"It's getting late and I should get home. I'll be back tomorrow. Goodnight Kagome, Inuyasha." Then he left with a quick glance at the now-sleeping Sango. It was very quiet in the apartment now. I sat at the table, watching Kagome as she stood over the sink. She shoulders started shaking and it took me until the smell of her salty tears until I realized she was crying. There was a small sniffle and a sob stifled by her hand.
"Hey hey," I said, going over to her. "It's ok, there's no need to cry."
"I could have....gotten her....killed," the words were punctuated by her taking in sharp breaths. "All they want...is me."
"Come on Kagome, it's not your fault. It's that bastard Naraku's fault for all the trouble he's causing." She shook her head, not facing me. I put my hands on her shoulders and turned her to face me, her bangs shielded her face but I saw the tear tracks. I caught one on my finger before it could reach the cuts. She hadn't even washed off the blood yet, too busy taking care of Sango. I forced her to meet my gaze. "This is not your fault, do you hear me. Sango will yell at you for crying over this, you know."
"I know she will," I was rewarded by a watery chuckle. And I was caught off guard when she suddenly flung her arms around my neck.
"You're not gonna get soft on me now, are you?" I asked when I regained the ability to breath.
"I think I just did, baka," she said into my ear. Her breath was warm on my neck and I gulped, loudly. She stepped away when he coffee was done and I felt kind of cold after that. It left me with more thoughts. Ah! Why does this girl keep making me think? I'm a half-demon of action, but all I seem to be doing as of late is thinking and watching girls fight. I sighed, in my own little world as she offered me a cup. She drank it black and I felt another pang of respect for this girl. She composes herself fast.
"What are we going to do tomorrow?" I asked her.
"I don't know. I'll probably send another message to Kouga, see what he knows. And tell him that Kagura is out of the picture. This will only make Naraku more angry." She sighed, her head in her hands. "I've made a real mess, but I need to clean it up."
"Hey," I said, grabbing her hand in mine. I don't know what it was about this girl that made me so...approachable around her. God, it was so unlike me! She was so soft and welcoming, I just felt like a different person in her presence, unlike my rude normal self. I'm not a hero. I've never pretended to be one. But Kagome made me want to be one, made me want to be one really, really bad. "You don't have clean-up duty alone. Sango will be on her feet quick, Miroku will be better after that. And I'm here. I know I'm not much help, but--"
"You are," she said, flexing her fingers around mine, but looking into her coffee. "You are." We were silent after that, for a long time. Then when sleep overtook us, Kagome went to her nest and I rested by back against the wall and slept sitting up.
Wooo, that was a fun chapter to write. I love fight scenes, they're adrenaline pumpers, hehe! I'm actually not sure what to do next chapter. It's a toss up before the first showdown of Inuyasha, Miroku, and the girls against Naraku's boys, or the introduction of Sesshomaru. I think I'm leaning toward the latter. What do you guys think? Review and I'll go from there!
~~Jesse the Wolf Demon~~
pruningshears: everyone is obsessed with the ears because...well...that's one of the great questions of life. There are five great questions and #5 on the list is Why are Inuyasha's ears so tweakable? (#4 is why do hotdogs come in packages of eight and buns come in packages of ten? #3 is why are the skinny Japanese guys always the winners of the Nathan's hotdog eating contest? #2 is Why is the earth called round when it's actually oval? And the #1 unanswerable question in the world, at least according to me and my friends, is Why is all the rum gone? P.O.T.C. analogy there, Jack Sparrow is another of my role models) So just think of it as one of those unsolved mysteries.
Disclaimer: Me? Own Inuyasha? I don't, but if your offering.....
Chapter 7:
Kagome vs. Kagura
The afternoon was basically made up of arguments and weapons practice. Of course, my place was too small for the kind of practice the girls were sued to, so we went to an abandoned building down the street from my apartment. It was here that Miroku and I usually worked out, if we felt that our skills were slipping.
Kagome set up a small target at one end of the room and proceeded to shook every arrow in her quiver, one after the other, from the other side of the building. All of them hit the target until not a piece of the cardboard was visible without a hole of some kind. Miroku and I were impressed...very much.
Sango practiced herself for a while, reflexing dozens of intricate fencing stances, defensive and offensive alike. When Kagome finished archery practice, she pulled that long dagger she took from Sango and the girls proceeded to spar. Miroku and I watched while leaning against the wall. I was humbled fast. Despite Kagome saying she wasn't good at the simple moves Sango taught her, she blew me away. Her speed was incredible and although it was obvious that Sango was more experienced with a blade, there was still a good fight.
When they finished, both panting, they looked over at us. "Aren't you going to play?" Sango called. "You should get a feel for those weapons I gave you. Going into battle with a fresh sword, or staff, can get you killed."
I knew that. So did Miroku. We were just too busy being flabbergasted to form thoughts, actions, or words. Sango was the one to challenged me to a bought. "One swordsman to another," she said with a feral smile. I got a little nervous, but I had used a sword before. I've had experience with a lot of weapons.
Kagome forced Miroku into a corner until he agreed to fight with her, but he was begging forgiveness in advance if her hurt her, stating he would never go easy on a woman just because of gender. The smile on both of the girls' faces led me to believe that he was about to get a severe ass-kicking.
My attention was once more on Sango as she circled me like a cat ready to pounce on a rat. Her eyes watched ever subtle move I made, the eyes of a trained warrior. It's what I expected from the body guard of the Guardian of the Jewel. I unsheathed my new sword, hers already in hand. I crouched low to the ground, her style mimicking mine. Then we both froze, bodies tense for action. She made the first move, leaping forward, blade raised. I parried easily, backing a few steps away.
Her reflexes were sharp, being the sword back around for another attack. I blocked again, this time bringing my sword up to form a blow at her. It was a quick series of actions. She'd attack and I'd block, then I'd attack and she'd block. We were evenly matched. Sango noticed this as well. That's when she activated the dagger she had hidden on her wrist and swung it at my stomach. I blocked, moving fast to block her sword as well.
"Damn," I muttered. "Are you trying to kill me, wench?" I asked her, blocking another double-blow attack. She laughed at me, back a few steps away.
"I'm not holding back. Enemies won't hold back to get at Kagome," she said solidly before rushing me. I did some fancy foot work right then, thanking my lucky stars that I had half-demon speed, and jumped over her head. I rolled and was on my feet behind her in a second, blade at the side of her throat.
"No fair using demon powers," she whined, but I saw the sparkle in her eyes.
"No fair using a hidden blade," I taunted, sheathing my sword again.
"Uh...Inuyasha....Sango?" We both turned to look at Miroku. Kagome was sitting cross-legged on the ground, sharpening her dagger, bow and quiver at her side. Miroku was pinned to the wall by a series of arrows, making it impossible for him to move unless he was let down. "A little help here?"
"Hi Miroku," I said, pulling out one of the arrows. "How's it hanging?"
"Oh yeah, you're such a comedian." I snickered, helping him down. He went over to where Sango was now seated besides Kagome. "You are truly a scary girl Kagome," he said, respect in his eyes. She looked up at him with a smirk.
"Don't you forget it," she said. I had my arms crossed, content for the moment, when I noticed the sun was setting.
"Whoa, Miroku, time to split." He looked up as well.
"I'm afraid I have to leave you ladies," he said in such a forlorn voice that I sighed. "But never fear for I shall return to your side tomorrow." With that, I physically pushed him from the room. Sango and Kagome followed slowly. Back at my place, the three of us took turns using the shower. Kagome fixed us some Ramen for dinner. Sango made a face. She's not the Ramen kind, but she ate without complaint. I bowed out of respect to the Queen of Ramen. She shoved me out of the way, laughingly. This domestic scene gave me shivers when I laid down for bed and thought about it.
I know now why breakfast is the most important meal of the day. It's the one you want to eat more then any other because its just after you regain consciousness. Ah, the aroma of food. I know I really shouldn't get used to having a breakfast every morning, what with Kagome not going to be here that long and all, but its hard not to hope you'll wake up to that scent every day. Today's breakfast was smaller, quicker, but still delectable.
Sango sat at the table, a coffee mug in hand, looking very refreshed. Kagome sat with her and then poured me a cup when they saw I was awake. "Sleep good?" she asked me.
"Like I rock," I said, drinking the offered liquid before shoving my face into the awaiting food. Have I mentioned before that I love food? I mean, growing up on the streets, you live on as little as you can to avoid confrontation. But as an adult, with a somewhat unsteady income, but at least a home of my own, food is mostly what I splurge on. Especially the food of the Gods, Ramen. Now I know I've said this before, but I like having Kagome here if only to assure myself that there are people out there that like Ramen as much as I do. Makes one feel fuzzy on the inside, but I shook that away quick. Sometime after the coffee and the food, there was a knock on the door. Kagome went to let Miroku in, but he wasn't alone.
"I found this little guy wandering around outside, saying he was looking for Sango and Kagome," he explained, pointing to a small boy at his side. The kid was small, and a demon. He had busy brown hair, as well as a tail. He couldn't have been more then eight or so. He wore an armband like the one Kouga had, so I figured this was his messenger.
"Hi Kagome, hi Sango," he said with a wave. Both girls waved and Kagome went to greet him, picking him up in her arms.
"Shippou, I'm happy you didn't get lost!" she said, giving the boy a hug. "Did Kouga send you with a message?" He nodded, hopping from her grasp to the floor.
"He wanted to come himself, but Spike returned from the Heart of the City last night pretty beat up and he needed to stay with him. Patch didn't make it." Both girls and the boy looked grim.
"I take it those were Kouga's spies," I asked Sango. She nodded.
"He sent in Spike and Patch, his two most loyal friends, to keep an eye on the Golem's movements. They disappeared a few days ago and we figured that they had been captured. This confirms it." Shippou hopped up on to Kagome's vacant chair and grabbed some food, stuffing his face before continuing.
"Spike told us some pretty scary stuff last night. It seems that Naraku has called back all the demons he has searching for you until the pretense of you being his 'lost sister.' Every one of the Golems and their allies seem to be gathering in the Heart of the City for some reason. Spike and Patch weren't able to find out what reason that was before they were captured."
"Hmm," Kagome mused. "Why would Naraku be calling everyone to the city heart? I know he desires the Jewel, and me, but I didn't think he would go to such lengths to get it. I had hoped once I disappeared he'd let it go."
"No," Shippou said, shaking his small head. For some reason, he smelled of wolves, but not like a wolf. He was a member of the Wolf Pack, but the closer I looked at him, the less wolf-like he appeared. "Naraku knows you're still in the city somewhere, but he hasn't figured out where your hiding. It's getting him frustrated and angry."
Sango got to her feet. "Maybe we should leave the city Kagome," she blurted. "Your family would understand, you have to protect the Jewel. Father and Kohaku know I need to stay by your side. We could get out of here, go somewhere else...and...and..." Kagome shook her head. A single tear rolled down Sango's face, startling me.
"I can't run away Sango. It is my duty, as the Guardian of the Shikon Jewel. I have to end Naraku's life so that he can no longer plague this city. It has been the cause of my family for many years. But I can't ask you do help me Sango. If you come with me, it has to be what you want."
"Of course it is!" Sango cried, suddenly throwing her arms around Kagome. "I'd be a baka! I can't leave you alone for five minutes or you'll get yourself killed!" Kagome laughed, hugging her back.
"That goes for you guys too. I have to do this, but you don't." Kagome looked to me and Miroku.
"I thought we already went over this," I said with a raised eyebrow. "I got dragged into this. I'm not gonna be left hanging. I'm seeing it threw." I drank more of my coffee like I didn't just sign my own death warrant. But I told Kouga I'd protect this girl, and I wanted to do it.
"That goes for me to," Miroku said. Sango looked at him with admiration and gratefulness. We were all silent for a moment.
"Um, I still haven't finished my message," Shippou said, looking back up at Kagome and Sango. "Kouga wanted me to tell you most of all that only one Golem is still on the streets."
Kagome looked at Shippou and sighed knowingly. "Kagura, am I right?" she asked.
"Yeah. She's looking for you as we speak, and I'm pretty sure she'll find you. Naraku sent her to bring you to the City Heart, that's what Spike said before he passed out last night."
"Oh no Kagome," Sango breathed, looking afraid.
"Don't worry Sango, I'll just have to get her before she can get me." With that said, she calmly strapped on her quiver, picking her bow up from the corner and going to the door. "Shippou, can you give Kouga a message from me?"
He hopped over to her and nodded. "Thank him for the heads up, and tell him to see if he can find out anything more about the gathering in the Heart of the City. Also, tell Spike to get well, and my condolences for Patch."
"I'll tell him. Good luck Kagome." I could see his eyes sparkling with tears and he hugged her leg before scampering off into the street.
"I hope he finds his way home alright," I muttered.
"Oh he will," Sango said. "That fox kit knows the whole city like the back of his paw." Fox, that explained it. I didn't comment however, watching Kagome look out the door and at the sky.
"I can feel her coming," she said idly, no fear at all. "She should be at the house in about ten minutes."
"Shall we move to a better ground?" Sango asked, strapping on her sword and wrist dagger.
"Yes, it won't do to fight in Inuyasha's apartment." I watched this going on like it was in slow motion. Miroku had the same clueless look on his face. Sango went out the door but Kagome lingered.
"We'll be back in a little while. Kagura is almost here and we have to take care of her first." Then she calmly closed the door. Hold the phone! Did she just say what I think she said? Is the girlfriend of the most powerful demon in this city, and one hella power bitch herself, about to do battle with Kagome and Sango? DID I MISS SOMETHING?
"Come on Miroku!" I yelled, grabbing my sword and running after them. He was on my heels. The girls were walking calmly toward the building we were fighting in yesterday. Miroku and I gave chase. "What the hell are you thinking?" I yelled at them.
"What?" Kagome asked. I saw she was looking non-to-pleased. I didn't know if it was at me or just in general. "I just need to take care of her."
"Just like that?"
"Just like that." She brushed past me, heading up the stairs of the building to the roof. Sango following her, head high. I swallowed, eyes wide. They were really freaking me out. Miroku looked the same as me.
"What are they gonna do?" he asked me. I shrugged, simply watching. Kagome took off her quiver for a moment to shrug out of her sweatshirt. Underneath was a plain tank top. She wore a pair of sweat pants too, I guess they have freer movement then jeans. She strapped leather wrist guards on both her arms, then returned the quiver to her shoulder and the long dagger to her side.
Sango was already dressed in her leather armor like the day before, her sword at her hip, the wrist dagger in place. I also caught the glare of a pair of throwing daggers, hidden in the rim of each of her boots. Both girls whipped out a tie to keep their hair out of their faces. Sango stretched both of her legs as Kagome hopped up and down, flexing her arms. I caught a glimpse of the Jewel at her throat.
"I'm a little afraid about this," Miroku whispered to me.
"Me too," I said just as quietly. As if any loud noise might break the tension surrounding both girls. Then Kagome stilled, eyes in the sky. I followed her gaze and saw her too. Then the smell hit me, the smell of a Golem. It was so distinct, so vile I coughed. The smell of a demon.
"She's here," Kagome said unnecessarily. All eyes were already on the demon woman as she landed gracefully on the roof top.
"You're Kagome, the Guardian of the Shikon Jewel, yes?" she asked in a rather bored voice, picking up the feather that she had just ridden in on and sticking it into her hair.
"You're Kagura," was Kagome's reply, stepping toward her.
"Let's make this quick, alright? I have to bring you back to Naraku in one piece or he'll be even more pissy then he already is. Frankly, I don't have time to play with you, but I see you won't come without a fight."
"I intend to remain where I am," Kagome said, bow clenched in her hand.
"Whatever," Kagura said with a yawn, pulling a fan out from a pocket hidden in her jacket before shrugging off the bulky gang symbol. "Let's play." There was a sinister glint in her eyes that I seriously didn't like, but Kagome was unfazed. Her dark eyes were cold and so unlike they were before. It struck something in me, something cold in their depths. This wasn't Kagome as I knew her. This was the true Guardian.
Before I had time to blink, Kagome had notched an arrow and let it fly at Kagura. The demon seemed to be expecting this because she opened the fan and brought it down quickly, releasing some kind of wind energy that snapped the arrow in two. Kagome shot off two more arrows that glowed with energy, hoping to catch the demon off guard as Sango ran to the left, throwing both of her hidden daggers.
Kagura blocked the arrows easily, but the daggers caught her by surprise, forcing her to dodge, giving Kagome the opportunity to run up and shoot again. Kagura let out a growl of annoyance as she leapt to her feet, and twirling her fan in a motion that sent a small wind tornado Kagome's way, blowing apart the arrow she had shot. I froze, ready to jump out and grab the girl out of the way, but Kagome shot a power-filled arrow and dispelled the tornado.
"Impressive, as I would expect from the Guardian," Kagura said, circling Kagome warily. Sango, meanwhile, was hiding back, her sword drawn and poised for the attack.
"As are your skills, Wind-User," Kagome countered. Kagura smiled smugly.
"My reputation precedes me. I'm so happy you've heard of me." Kagome didn't dignify that with a response. There was an arrow notched and ready at her bow, but she didn't let it fly. There was a blur of movement to the left of them as Sango rushed Kagura.
Kagura closed the fan quickly, using it to block the sword that was meant to cut her. She pushed Sango back, and just narrowly avoided the arrow Kagome had sent at her. The arrow ricocheted off the wall near me and Miroku, causing us to duck lower on the stairwell.
Kagura brought her fan down in a sweeping motion several times, releasing four mini tornados that were bound for Sango. She managed to sidestep the first two, but the third hit her in the side, sending her to the ground. Kagome quickly shot an arrow to dispel the fourth before it could hit her wounded friend, but this was the opening Kagura needed. She rushed Kagome before she could notch a new arrow.
Kagome threw the bow aside, pulling her long dagger and forcing Kagura to jump back. The long distance weapon would no longer help her in a close range face-off. Kagura opened her fan, sending a few more of those wind blades that she had used on Kagome's arrows, but the Guardian avoided them all. She could even block them with the dagger, the blade glowing with the same energy she had infused with her arrows, but a lighter color. Her dagger was not as powerful as her arrows.
By this time, Sango was on her feet again, ready to pounce at Kagura, but Kagome's voice stopped her. "Don't Sango! You're hurt, go wait by the others."
"Others?" Kagura purred. "Naraku knew you needed help to survive. You truly are a weak Guardian, aren't you?" Kagome's eyes remained the same deadly and empty dark pits they had been since the beginning. The words meant nothing.
"Go Sango," she said, not even sparing a glance. Sango limped over toward us. The closer she got, the stronger the scent of blood was in the air. There was a bloody trail dripping down her leg from an open wound on her side. Miroku paled, leaping from the safety of the stairwell to grab her and pull her down beside us. He took off his shirt, pressing it to her side. Sango whimpered as she held her blood covered hand over his. I turned back to the fight.
Kagura and Kagome circled one another. Kagome took a few steps closer to her opponent, not giving her enough room to launch any more of those wind blades. Kagura noticed this as well, her face looking nasty. In a split second, she rushed Kagome. I held my breath, ready to yell out her name, but it was too late. The fight was already over.
(Author's Notes: You see, if I was an evil author, I could just leave it like this. But because I am as eager to write this as you are to read it, I'm gonna be nice. *love and peace*)
Kagome's dagger had been forced aside a few feet across the roof. I watched in horror as Kagura didn't stop, making to slay Kagome with the folded fan that looked about as sharp as any blade, but she stopped short. For a few unbelievably excruciatingly long seconds, everything was still. The slight breeze on the roof ruffled Kagura's hair as she blocked Kagome from my view.
"Kagome," I whispered, thinking the worst. Blaming myself for being a baka and not jumping in when Sango got hurt. She was dead, to be brought back to Naraku with the Jewel. She was just a girl, just an 18-year-old girl. And I remembered her words from the other night echoing in my brain.
~~Flashback~~
'You and me are a lot a like Inuyasha. When you mother died, you didn't know what your future was, almost like you didn't have one. When I was born, my entire future was already planned out for me. Neither of us really had much of a choice to get us where we are, other then to just live.'
~~Flashback~~
"Kagome!" I yelled this time, not really sure why. I jumped to my feet, racing across the roof as fast as I could, but halfway across, I froze. Kagura pitched forward, then slumped to the side. Kagome stood there, perfectly unharmed except for three bloody scratched across her cheek. I saw the shafts of two arrows sticking out of Kagura's chest as her body began to fade into a dusty outline of her shape. She had been killed by Kagome's arrows, even without a bow. Kagome watched her, her hands still held out in front of her from where they had stabbed her, shaking slightly.
I finally regained movement in my legs as I closed the distance between me and her. She didn't look at me, eyes still looking at where Kagura once was. "Kagome?" I asked quietly. She looked up at me, eyes like they were supposed to be. There was no trace of the cold Guardian, there was just Kagome in her eyes. "Are you alright?" I asked, brushing my claws carefully over her bleeding cheek.
"I killed her," she said quietly. I nodded. She nodded back at me. "I think I need a drink," she said. I gave a half smile, putting an arm around her shoulders and helping her across the roof. She paused to retrieve her bow and dagger, but left the arrows.
When we got back to the stairwell, she knelt at Sango's side, tenderly touching her wound. "Kagome, you won huh?" Sango asked with a smirk.
"Yeah, thanks," she said, helping Sango up.
"Anytime." Sango draped and arm over Kagome's shoulders, Miroku still holding his shirt to her wound. I followed at the rear as we returned to my apartment. Kagome dropped her weapons just inside the door, rushing into the bathroom for medical supplies, then grabbing a shirt from her bag and ripping it to shreds. "I'm ok Kagome, it's just a flesh wound."
"Shut up Sango," she said with a smile, taking Miroku's shirt away and peeling back the blood-dried cloth. I led Miroku into the kitchen while Kagome helped her friend, just so Miroku wouldn't get in the way. He looked really scared, face pale. I grabbed one of my shirts and tossed it at him.
"Here, put that on before you scare the girls."
"Ha ha," he said without much feeling, shrugging on the shirt. We sat in silence for a few minutes before Kagome came into the kitchen with us. She didn't say anything, just went to make coffee.
"She lost blood," her voice was soft. Both me and Miroku jumped and looked up at her. "She'll be ok with some rest. She's in your bed Inuyasha, so you'll have to sleep on the floor tonight."
"No problem," I said, not really knowing what to say. Miroku got up from the table abruptly.
"It's getting late and I should get home. I'll be back tomorrow. Goodnight Kagome, Inuyasha." Then he left with a quick glance at the now-sleeping Sango. It was very quiet in the apartment now. I sat at the table, watching Kagome as she stood over the sink. She shoulders started shaking and it took me until the smell of her salty tears until I realized she was crying. There was a small sniffle and a sob stifled by her hand.
"Hey hey," I said, going over to her. "It's ok, there's no need to cry."
"I could have....gotten her....killed," the words were punctuated by her taking in sharp breaths. "All they want...is me."
"Come on Kagome, it's not your fault. It's that bastard Naraku's fault for all the trouble he's causing." She shook her head, not facing me. I put my hands on her shoulders and turned her to face me, her bangs shielded her face but I saw the tear tracks. I caught one on my finger before it could reach the cuts. She hadn't even washed off the blood yet, too busy taking care of Sango. I forced her to meet my gaze. "This is not your fault, do you hear me. Sango will yell at you for crying over this, you know."
"I know she will," I was rewarded by a watery chuckle. And I was caught off guard when she suddenly flung her arms around my neck.
"You're not gonna get soft on me now, are you?" I asked when I regained the ability to breath.
"I think I just did, baka," she said into my ear. Her breath was warm on my neck and I gulped, loudly. She stepped away when he coffee was done and I felt kind of cold after that. It left me with more thoughts. Ah! Why does this girl keep making me think? I'm a half-demon of action, but all I seem to be doing as of late is thinking and watching girls fight. I sighed, in my own little world as she offered me a cup. She drank it black and I felt another pang of respect for this girl. She composes herself fast.
"What are we going to do tomorrow?" I asked her.
"I don't know. I'll probably send another message to Kouga, see what he knows. And tell him that Kagura is out of the picture. This will only make Naraku more angry." She sighed, her head in her hands. "I've made a real mess, but I need to clean it up."
"Hey," I said, grabbing her hand in mine. I don't know what it was about this girl that made me so...approachable around her. God, it was so unlike me! She was so soft and welcoming, I just felt like a different person in her presence, unlike my rude normal self. I'm not a hero. I've never pretended to be one. But Kagome made me want to be one, made me want to be one really, really bad. "You don't have clean-up duty alone. Sango will be on her feet quick, Miroku will be better after that. And I'm here. I know I'm not much help, but--"
"You are," she said, flexing her fingers around mine, but looking into her coffee. "You are." We were silent after that, for a long time. Then when sleep overtook us, Kagome went to her nest and I rested by back against the wall and slept sitting up.
Wooo, that was a fun chapter to write. I love fight scenes, they're adrenaline pumpers, hehe! I'm actually not sure what to do next chapter. It's a toss up before the first showdown of Inuyasha, Miroku, and the girls against Naraku's boys, or the introduction of Sesshomaru. I think I'm leaning toward the latter. What do you guys think? Review and I'll go from there!
~~Jesse the Wolf Demon~~