Ohh I'm soo evil! ^___^ I know it's getting pretty annoying not
understanding what the deal with Marina is..
But at least that question seems to keep some people coming back for more.
I think I fixed the annoying errors in my writing... Sadly I lost my reviews. tears drip down face... But the point is I will no longer write oar. instead of aura
But this chapter was in the works a few days I wasn't sure where to take it to next.
I toyed with several ideas but all of them seemed to revel too much of what I intended wistfully hide.
And I would like to apologize for misspelling Shippou's name
So enjoy what you can chew on for now! ^.^
DISCLAMER: If you haven't seen the episode after Sango is introduced where they explain how the Shikon no tama came to be and you don't want anything spoiled stop now!
I don't own Inu-Yasha Rumiko Takahashi does with that said on with Chapter Eight!!!
InuYasha Beyond the Skin Chapter eight 'The choice she made'
Sango sent her riders out while Shippou and Mushiro discussed possible origins of Marina. Sango and Miroku's children frequently came in to torment Shippou, gawk at Marina, and beg Mushiro to teach them to fight like him. Two days passed, Marina only stirred to open her eyes to watch the sun set. Marina's dreams were filled with the same torment that consumed her heart. She dreamt Mushiro and Shippou each begged her over and over again to come to him and him alone. She would take a step and look at Koyasha who stood with his back to her ignoring her. Why had she come to this place surely it hadn't been just because of a promise she made. Maybe she followed because for once a person didn't want her around or even near them. It surprised her to realize she disliked the attention people paid to her. She wanted to be unwanted. Even when Koyasha tried to stay away from her she sought his company. "I'm not special in his eyes he sees me for just me. Come to think of it why is Mushiro even in my dreams, I just met him!" She was sick of dreaming, of tormenting herself, and of suffering heart ach over her own indecisions. Her eyes opened to a commotion. The town seemed in an uproar.
"The girls in here Kagome" "Thank you Sango, I've been wanting to speak with her since we met." "I'll see that no one bothers you till you're ready." "Uh... That means InuYasha too Sango." Kagome winked to Sango who laughed. "I think he'll be too busy talking to Mushiro." "Oh, I didn't know he was here too! But that can wait till later." "I'll see you in a while." Kagome nodded and entered the temple. Marina sat up she brushed the hair out of her face and looked down at what lay in her hand. It was the white tie Koyasha used in his hair. She could only tell it was his by the silver and black hair that was tangled around it. ("Is there something else I've forgotten, how did I get this?") She hid the hair tie under her covers seeing Kagome enter. "Good timing, I was afraid you wouldn't be awake." "Miss Kagome?" "Sango sent for me a couple of days ago." "Have I really been asleep that long?" Marina struggled to sit up. "Here let me help you." Kagome scurried over and braced her back. Marina winced in pain as she could feel one of the crud stitches pulling under the stress. The covers fell from her naked body. She gasped and huddled the covers around her body to hide it from view. Kagome giggled "Don't worry it's nothing I haven't seen before. But that wound looks pretty bad, you should be more careful." Marina's sad sober gaze met with Kagome's caring eyes. "Bad dreams, huh?" Marina's eyes shifted away feeling Kagome searching her sole. She hated looking people like her in the eyes. They seem to be able to glimpse into her heart and mind without a word being said between them. "Don't mind those dreams they were probably just caused by the pain. Perk up a little someone as young as you shouldn't have such sad eyes." Marina tried to lighten her expression.
"So I see you've met my eldest son Mushiro" "Yes, he seems very nice." "I think anyone would seem nice in comparison to Koyasha." Something about the way Kagome said this agitated Marina. Kagome stepped off to do something which looked like she was grinding several different herbs. "Koyasha is a horrible person; you shouldn't feel obligated to help him." Kagome's tone had turned to a sober note. "You know if he ever finds out you have the jewel in your heart he'll kill you." Marina felt her words cut through to the quick. In the darkest part of her heart it pained her to think that Kagome may be right. Would Koyasha kill her for the jewel? Marina felt such animosity for Kagome, how dare she make Marina doubt her trust in Koyasha! Marina gathered the blankets around her body and stood up ignoring her pain, her emotions where driving her now. She walked towards the door to leave. Kagome turned her gaze to Marina the jewel faded from a harmless cool blue to an ominous shade of purple. "Please don't leave!" Kagome yelled in despair. Marina paused and kept staring forward, "I don't have to stay here and listen to you verbally bash your own son." She turned her head to face Kagome "If my parents treated me, like you do Koyasha, I'd probably disown them too." Kagome could see the anger in her eyes. Kagome felt ashamed of herself. "Listen Marina, there are some things I must tell you about Koyasha before you leave and about the Shikon jewel. She felt the fire in her heart settle; she would finally learn something about this mysterious jewel she protected.
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Koyasha sat in the woods slightly irritated with his situation. "God Damn Brother of Mine! Why the hell'd you have to show up?!" Koyasha remembered back on that day. the day he killed Mushiro.
(Flash back)
Mushiro's eyes filled with angry tears, "All those people, how could you KoYasha!?!" They stood in the midst of a village dressed in blood. Several buildings burned around them. Young children cried over their dead and mutilated parents. Koyasha held his head down. "I didn't kill them." His hair and clothing were soaked in red. "Liar!" "I'm not lying." Koyasha's head lifted up, his gaze was dark and uncaring. "Murderer!!!" Mushiro pulled the tetsusaiga from its sheath and swung at the wind scar to hit his brother. Koyasha sprinted off to the side to avoid its power. Several buildings in front of Mushiro disintegrated to nothing but ash. "I told you I didn't kill them!" "You're such a coward you won't even admit that you killed them." Koyasha's face twisted into anger. "I could have ignored you trying to kill me just now. But no one calls me a coward!" Mushiro lost sight of Koyasha as the dust enveloped his body Mushiro lunged at the cloud slicing through it, but Koyasha was gone. "Turn around Mushiro!" Mushiro whirled around and felt Koyasha's hand pierce through his chest. "Let it never be said I would ever stab someone in the back." The cold chill of death crept over Mushiro's body. He fell down lifeless. No Koyasha was not a coward he wanted to be sure his victims saw who killed them. "May I never bring you any more grief, big brother." Koyasha laid his brothers body next to the village's shrine with the Tetsusaiga placed in his hands. A single tear fell from Koyasha's face onto the blade and trickled down.
"I'm surprised Koyasha. I thought you still cared for your family despite there disapproval." "He was in my way." A dark figure leaped down from the roof of the shrine and landed a few feet away from him. "Those villagers would have been no problem to get past; you didn't have to kill all of them." "I didn't kill them all. I left the children alone." "Hmm, you only left them alone because I kept you from killing them." "Why don't you take the sword he won't need it now?" Koyasha grabbed the figure by the neck. "The sword is my business not yours." His eyes glowed in the glitter of the flames. "It was only a suggestion, there's no need to get testy." "I'm leaving" Several children ran up to Koyasha and begged him to make their parents better. The figure walked behind Koyasha, when the children saw the cloaked figure they coward away. She lifted back her hood revealing her cold blue eyes and a few strands of dark brown hair. Several children ran to the bodies of their parents and began sobbing themselves horse. She laughed wickedly stomping on the head of an older woman and walked on past the terrified children. Koyasha shooed the two children who still clung to him away. "You didn't have to do that." "Awe, I was only having a little fun." "So what's your idea of a lot of fun, massacring an entire army?" "I never thought about it really." She covered her face back with the hood and continued on.
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Koyasha leaned forward and opened his eyes. "I wonder what happened to her?" He felt something slip from his Kimono and land in his lap. He looked down the little red velvet book lay in his lap. "I almost forgot I had this." He opened the journal to where he had left off.
("I'm so bad here I said I'd write in this every day and it's been almost four months. But I've been reading up on ancient Japanese culture. It amazes me to learn there are so many different stories about demons. I wonder if some of them are based on real occurrences? But I guess that's impossible how could demon's exist. sigh. it was a pleasant thought. I wonder if it's strange for someone like me to want demons to exist.") "She rambles a lot. A human wanting demon's to exist, that's rich. Eh what do I care?" He tossed the book to the side. A page laid open that Koyasha glance at it. ("It's lonely some times. No one understands me. I have many friends but few seem to take the time to really listen. I wonder if there will ever be someone that can relate with me. That reminds me, the most popular boy in school asked me out today. As if! I have no interest in that selfish, self obsessing worm! I don't care if they say he's good looking he's a creep! If I'm to fall in love, I guess he'd have to be kind; maybe a little on the strange side I guess an outcast, but above all else not want me but really love me just for me not for my looks. I guess that sounds conceited to call myself attractive. Personally I think I'm kind of plain. But I want my first kiss to be special and to be with someone I really like not just some random man who's interested. I know I would have to truly love him. But what am I talking about, who cares about falling in love I have more important things to do, like study up for my semester tests!")
Koyasha picked the book up again and placed it in his Kimono. "I'll read it later if I get board." Koyasha caught a faint sent on the tip of the wind. "Kirara?" He sniffed again. "Not only her but my parents." His face looked disgusted. "They'll be after the girl." His eyes slanted and he sprinted off back to towards the village.
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"Listen, the Shikon no tama was actually born from the heart of an ancient priestess. She could trap and purify demons souls. Several enormous demons joined in an attack against her in that battle the Shikon jewel was born trapping their battle within it. The jewel can shift to good or evil depending on the purity of ones soul." "So what you mean is their can be no Yin and Yang it must be pure good or pure evil that will break the curse." "Preferably good, but yes that's the general idea. You must know something else though." Marina sat back down and listened. "KoYasha's really no the person you think he is." Marina's eyes showed her distain for Kagome's words. "Before he was sealed to the tree he not only murdered his own brother but he massacred several villages before that. He left the children crying in the streets over the bodies of their parents. Marina's eyes looked horrified. "In this time Koyasha is just a boy barely fifteen. But the one from our time has matured into an adult. We don't know what he's capable of in this form." "I don't believe you." Marina didn't want to even consider Kagome's words were true. "You don't have to stay with him; I know you're not evil!" A tear rolled down Marina's face "I promised, can't you understand that! A promise to me is a sacred vow. I can't just break a promise." "But." "It is more important than good VS evil." Kagome felt defeated there was no convincing this girl the path she was taking was wrong. She already knew it was wrong but she kept on despite normal reason. Kagome would have to be underhanded to try and sway her. "You know he doesn't care for you, He'll just use you till you lose your usefulness." Tears rolled down Marina's face. Kagome words seemed true but cruel in nature. "I'm sorry I just don't want to see a person like you die."
Kagome walked back over to the concoction she'd been working on. "I brought you some clothes. The kimono you wore the other day looked expensive and I figured you didn't have anything else." Kagome tossed the bundle to her. Marina held the bundle against her breast. "I guess we're enemies then", Marina's words were sad. "Then this will be our last visit on friendly terms." "If you're as determined as you say, to keep that promise you made, then I'm afraid so." Marina let the covers fall from her. "I would like to have been friends, but sometimes we just can't have both." Something about the words Kagome spoke tore through Marina's heart. ("Sometimes we just can't have both.") Those were the last words Marina's mother spoke to her before the she flat lined in the hospital. She hated Kagome for saying that, but it wasn't Kagome's fault she didn't know. Marina looked down and saw her underclothes lying on top. She put the clothing on and felt sheepish they were the garments of a priestess. Red hakama pants and white kimono with the decorative large red stitches at the end of the sleeves. The pants were hot and heavy on her legs in the warm weather. She picked up her sword and placed it in her sash.
Kagome whipped her for head "Done" She picked up the bowl and dumped the contents into a pouch. "Here take a pinch of this with some tea whenever the pain gets too sever. " Marina knelt down and took the pouch. Kagome patted off her clothing and stood up. "Thank you Miss Kagome." Kagome looked over at her "Hey, you're shorter than me. I thought American's were supposed to be tall?" Marina smiled slightly "Your not that much taller than me, and besides my whole family's short." Kagome smiled. "As I hear the young men around here seem quite taken with you." "You can tell them I'm not interested." Kagome looked surprised "Why, do you have a boyfriend?" Marina shook her head and lightly blushed. "OH, I see." Kagome said slyly. Someone knocked at the door. "Mommy can I come in now?" Marina's face was overly joyful to hear Fujiko's cute voice. "Come in!" Marina chimed before Kagome could say otherwise. Fujiko's bright face poked in and smiled from ear to ear. "Hey, you're that nice lady from before." Fujiko lunged over to Marina and squeezed her waist in a death lock. Marina gritted her teeth to keep from screaming. "Fujiko Don't!!" Fujiko jumped back startled. Marina's face began to sweat and the world went black again.
Kagome bolted to Marina as she fainted. She barely caught her. "Quick Fujiko go get some water and fetch Sango. Fujiko tripped over Kirara running out the door. Kirara walked over and sniffed Marina looked up at Kagome and back to Marina. She nuzzled Marina's hand and began licking it. ("Kirara seems to trust her so she must be good.") Kirara snuggled into the crevasse of Marina's arm and lay, occasional looking up at Kagome and mewing.
Fujiko was a blur running this way and that looking for Sango. Fujiko skidded to a halt in front of a small gathering of friends and family. "There you are Mrs. Sango. Mommy needs you right away and she said bring some water." Sango's face turned grave she grabbed a bucket of water and went running back to the temple. The others followed close behind. InuYasha bolted a head of them. "That girl better not have hurt Kagome." He shot in the door ready to fight and looked at Kagome who cradled Marina's upper body in her lap. "I'm ok InuYasha." Sango shot past Inuyasha and to Kagome's side. Miroku, Shippou, and Mushiro pushed in, Shippo nearly knocked InuYasha over trying to get in to make sure Marina was alright. "What happened is she ok?" "She'll be fine, calm down Shippou."
Marina was lost in her dreams. (Her eyes were fuzzy but soon cleared. Koyasha sat at her side. "Those fools I wasn't even trying to sneak in and got past them with no trouble. Well it looks like you're not dead yet." "Not yet" her eyes adjusted to the faint light from the moon, and saw Koyasha peering over her. "You're not here to get me yet are you?" "I can't take you like this you'd never heal. Then you would be useless." "Mmm" she lightly nodded her head. "The blood doesn't smell as fresh; they must have tied the wound together." Koyasha went to pull back her covers to look; Marina instinctively grabbed his hair and yanked him away. Koyasha went sprawling to the floor. "What'd ya do that for!?" Marina covered up all but her eyes with the covers. Her face blushed with embarrassment. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to." She looked like a small child hiding in the covers with her shameful curious eyes poking out expecting punishment. Koyasha tried to keep from laughing at her. It agitated him how he couldn't stay mad at her for very long. It was curious to him her true personality was illusive about showing through. She was actually quite shy but had the playful nature of a child. "Go back to sleep I'll come and get you in a few days." "Ok" He stood up and left. She went to close her eyes and noticed something on the floor. In the minor skirmish she had had with the nosey KoYasha's hair, she had pulled out his hair tie. She picked it up and gripped it in her hand, then went back to sleep.)
Marina opened her eyes groggily to fuzz, she saw someone with dog ears looming over her. "KoYasha?" "Far from it." She blinked a few times and Inu- Yasha came into view. Her eyes widened and saw the others in the room. ("Would people just leave me alone? I'm not some kind of freak for display!") Her gaze wandered down to an almost cat like creature with two tails staring at her. She faintly smiled and it leaned up and nuzzled her cheek. She giggled slightly then fell silent as she noticed everyone staring. She covered her head over with the covers catching Kirara underneath. "Stop staring at me!" Kirara mewed, "I'm sorry I didn't mean you." She whispered to Kirara. Kirara's eyes closed and she swished her tails merrily. Marina smiled at the funny little creature. Kirara snuggled against Marina's face. Kagome pulled back the covers from Marina's face. All but Sango and I are outside." "Don't forget me Mommy!" Fujiko said hopping up and down from her hiding spot. Sango snatched Fujiko by the ear. "Oww that hurts Mrs. Sango!" Sango started to drag her to the door. "It's ok she's fine." Marina said propping up on her elbow. Kirara jumped onto Marina's lab and stared over at Fujiko. "Wow I've never seen Kirara take to a person so quickly." Fujiko said tugging away from Sango. "Get back here you little imp!" Fujiko scurried over to Marina's side. "I'm sorry I hurt you Miss Marina." Marina smiled "Its ok you didn't know." Marina reached up and patted Fujiko's head. "You sure don't hold a grudge like Daddy." Fujiko's playful eyes landed on Kirara who sat wearily eyeing her. Something sparkled in her eyes and Kirara bolted for the door which Sango held open. Fujiko followed after her giggling "Capture the tail!" They heard a yelp from outside. "Sorry Shippou caught the wrong tail." And her voice trailed off laughing and giggling.
Marina laughed lightly and regretted doing so, her stomach ached. "Take it easy you'll only make your self worse." Kagome handed her a cup of tea and put a pinch of her herbal remedy in it. "Drink this" Marina took the tea and sipped it, slightly sputtering from the taste. "Sorry I know it's bitter." Marina smiled apologetically. "May I have my kimono back?" "Of course." Sango went in a side room and brought it back. "That reminds me I brought you a brush and some things." Kagome pulled out a small bundle and handed it to Marina. "A little modern convenience." She whispered to her and winked. Marina felt her heart pounding hard and fast. "He's coming for me." Sango looked puzzled. ("That's the second time she's done that, but can she really sense him. I guess we'll know in a few minutes.") Kagome thought to herself. Sango handed Marina her Kimono. "I think I got the stains out. I sowed up the cuts in the other one." Marina looked at the garment "You didn't have to wash them, but thank you." "It's no trouble." Marina bowed as best she could to both the women and stood up. "You should rest some more." "I've rested enough. Thank you both for caring for me. But I'll be ok." A tear rolled down her cheek. "Please stay away from Koyasha and I." "What?" Kagome and Sango looked shocked. "Please stay away I don't want to have to fight you!" More tears rolled down her face "Please, I don't want a reoccurrence of what happened when Sango fought him. I don't know what I will do if there is a next time!" An uproar came from outside. "It's KoYasha! Stand ready!" "There's no way she could have known!" Kagome couldn't believe her own ears, she stared at Marina both shocked and horrified. Something about Marina began making her very uneasy.
The four men that had been waiting outside ran to do battle. Marina opened the door, Thunder crackled over head while the earth glowed fresh, green, alive, and bright; but the clouds seemed ominous and ready to let loose at any minute. Marina loved this kind of weather, it announced spring. She could smell the rain in the air. A crowd of fighters surrounded an area full of movement and action. KoYasha blasted through them, flinging hunters into buildings like rag dolls. Sango darted off, running back shortly with her boomerang. Marina walked towards the battle. Shippo looked to the side as she walked past. ("This is the path I've chosen now I must walk it with no regrets.") The wind sang softly in her ear and encouraged her with its strumming melody. The storm in their lives was beginning; when it would it end time could only tell. Fujiko ran up to Marina "Are you leaving Miss Marina?" Marina held her head up high "Yes, Fujiko it's time I left." "Will I see you again?" Marina knelt down to Fujiko. "Perhaps some day" She poked Fujiko in the nose. "Remember keep smiling." Fujiko giggled. "Is my big brother going to take care of you now?" Marina was shocked this little girl was more aware of what was going on than she originally let on. "He likes you I think." "What would give you that idea?" "He's my brother I know him better than anyone. I want you to give this to him." She pulled out a small crudely done stuffed doll with black and silver hair. "Koyasha cut his own hair to make my doll. He can give it back to me when he comes home, ok?" Marina took the doll from her and nodded. "I will, if you promise to take care of your family." "Mmhum." She nodded smiling. "Fujiko get out of here!" Sango yelled as she readied her boomerang. Fujiko ran off waving to Marina. ("She thinks he likes me?") Marina looked down at the little doll and smiled "Oh yes Ko-Yasha, you are the person I think you are." She smiled whole heartedly.
Kirara emerged from under a building growling. Kirara ran over to Marina and stood in front of her protecting her from the commotion slowly creeping closer. Her fur raised and she transformed into a fanged beast with flames coming from her paws. Koyasha jumped out of the crowd. "Get out of my way!!" Koyasha threw a man into InuYasha. "Ko-Yasha!" Her eyes sparkled. Kirara's ears laid back seeing him emerge. "I haven't got the time to mess with you Kirara!" Kirara pushed Marina back keeping herself between the two. The clouds finally let loose and the rain pored down on them. Kirara's flames burned brightly. Mushiro lunged at Koyasha, Koyasha stepped aside and grabbed Mushiro's ankle and threw him to the ground. Miroku swung his staff at Koyasha. Koyasha grabbed it and twirled it around with Miroku still holding on. Koyasha let go and Miroku flew into a building cracking through the wall. Marina turned around and spotted Kagome readying an arrow. Marina pulled her sword and prepared. Kagome let loose the arrow dead on mark to hit Koyasha. Marina sprinted over and sliced the arrow down as it passed. Kagome's eyes widened in surprise, "No cheep shots today Miss Kagome. I told you I don't want to fight you!" Koyasha caught the seen out of the corner of his eye. The rain dripped down into her face from her bangs. Koyasha jumped over Kirara who still stood protecting Marina. He landed next to Marina. "Miss me?" InuYasha charged at Koyasha with the Tetsusaiga drawn. Koyasha dodged to the side. Marina met the Tetsusaiga with her own sword. InuYasha bore down on her hard; she slid backwards against Kirara, who didn't know what to do in this situation. "How can your sword withstand my Tetsusaiga!?" Kirara stuck her head between the two. "Move Kirara!" InuYasha yelled. Kirara knelt down by Marina. "Oh I see. You're right Kirara." Marina looked down at a puddle underneath her and kicked the muddy water up into Inuyasha's eyes. He jolted backwards confused. "I'm sorry" She then jumped on Kirara's back. The beast feeling her weight land on her, leaped up in the air above the battle. Koyasha saw his chance leaped up on a building and onto Kirara's back. "Go Kirara!" Kirara wanted to jolt off Koyasha but knew Marina would fall as well if she did. So she chose to tolerate Koyasha for the moment.
Shippou ran below trying to follow after Kirara but soon fell behind and then lost sight of them completely. Koyasha looked back at them as they went out of view. Then he took a look at the world below in the rain. He'd all but forgotten how thrilling it was to ride Kirara. It had been years since she'd let him ride. Lightning dance in the clouds above. "We'd better land soon it's dangerous to stay up in this weather." The rain soaked through to Marina's bones. Her clothing clung tight to her body. Koyasha breathed in the clean air taking in the memories of each fragrance. "What's the matter girl, ya afraid of a little lightning?" Koyasha teased. "No I'm not afraid; I just know having my insides cooked from electric shock wouldn't be pleasant." She held up her arms and tugged back in quickly reminded of her wound. "Honestly I love weather like this, this time of year. It makes the world look and feel so alive." She turned around and smiled to Koyasha who seemed shocked by her passion for life.
Kirara landed in an open field overlooking another small village. Koyasha hopped off and caught Marina as she slid off. "Watch that wound I don't want to have to bandage you up again!" "I'm trying to." She started walking and felt her legs wobbling. "Oh, these darn hakama pants, there too heavy." Marina pulled loose the bow at her waist, her sword dropped with a thud. Koyasha's eyes bugged out of his head as her pants dropped. Her short Kimono barely hid her rear end. She laid out the pants strait, pulled out her sword judged the length a moment then she sliced the lower part of her pants off. Koyasha stared as she put the pants back on that now only came to mid thigh. "That's much better! Shorter than it was, but not as short as my school uniform." She looked over at Koyasha and turned to stone, it had totally slipped her mind that he'd been watching. "Have you no shame!!" "Hey, I'm not the one who dropt their pants!" "I didn't mean to that is I forgot you were here." Kirara growled at Koyasha, who made faces in response. "Would you two stop?" Marina sheathed her sword while Kirara turned back to her smaller form.
Marina looked up at the sky something cliqued in her mind and she jumped at Koyasha throwing him to the ground. A bolt of lightning stuck where he had stood. Koyasha's ears wrung from the noise and his vision was spotted from the light. He looked over at where he had been standing, Marina's sword stuck in the ground there smoldering. Her blue eyes glowed like the earth around them. She stared into his eyes, panting. "Are you ok?" he stared blinking at her. "Let's not do that again ok? I don't think my stitches could handle it." Her pupils shrunk and she covered her mouth coughing. Her other arm gripped her stomach and she rolled off of Koyasha. Kirara trotted over to her and pawed Marina's leg. She rolled onto her knees and slowed her breathing and calmed her coughing. She looked down at her hand his hair tie was wrapped around her hand. It went from around her wrist up to and around her middle finger and back down on the right side around her wrist again. But it was now spotted with blood. ("Oh no, I can't give it back to him like this. Come to think of it I must have done this in my sleep I don't remember putting it on.") Koyasha sat up and looked at her. "How did you know that lightning would strike there?" "Simple with Kirara back to her smaller form you were the tallest point in the field. Lightning usually strikes like that." Koyasha's eyes slanted. "We're even now. So don't expect me to save your life again." Marina started to stand up, but Koyasha grabbed her and barrel rolled across the grass keeping a hold on her. Another bolt of lighting struck and twisted back to her sword striking with a loud 'boom.' It scared Kirara so much she bolted for the woods.
Marina opened her eyes to Koyasha staring her in the face. His face turned slightly red. "It was a reflex, don't get any ideas." Her heart pounded in her chest. Koyasha bolted up to his feet "DAMN IT I SAID DON'T GET ANY IDEAS!!!!" His eyes slanted and he turned around. She sat trying not to smile, was Fujiko right? Did Koyasha have feelings for her even when it wasn't the new moon? He held out his hand for her. She took it and was pulled to her feet by him. "Thank you Koyasha." He looked over at her surprised. "Look I don't intend on having to save your ass all the time." He irritated her making it sound like he always did all the work. "So next time Miss Kagome shoots an arrow at you. You want me to just let it hit you." His face twisted to verbally attack her but he heard a crack of thunder over head. "Let's get out of her!" He gripped her hand and pulled towards the woods, but she stopped him "Wait my sword!" She pulled away and ran over to pick up the things she'd dropped. Koyasha looked up and ran over to her and grabbed her hand, then ran back to the woods dragging her behind him. To Kirara's delight Marina was fine. The two stopped running a little ways into the woods. Marina tried desperately to keep from coughing while she caught her breath. She held her hand to her chest and felt the small doll in the folds of her Kimono. "I almost forgot." Koyasha turned his head then realized he was still holding her hand and let go. "Forgot what?" Marina reached into her Kimono and pulled out the little doll. Koyasha's eyes looked both softer and shocked. His words were gentle. "How did you get that?" Marina smiled and handed him the doll. "Fujiko wanted you to keep it till you came home." Koyasha's eyes hardened again and he squeezed the doll in his hand. "That is not my home!" "Then I guess you'll just have to give it to her next time you see her." He snarled his nose at her but put the doll in his kimono.
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Ok I think that's enough to chew on for now!
I hope I wrote enough to make up for my period of writers block
Please R&R and thanks for sticking with the story! ^.^
Chapter Nine coming soon!!
But at least that question seems to keep some people coming back for more.
I think I fixed the annoying errors in my writing... Sadly I lost my reviews. tears drip down face... But the point is I will no longer write oar. instead of aura
But this chapter was in the works a few days I wasn't sure where to take it to next.
I toyed with several ideas but all of them seemed to revel too much of what I intended wistfully hide.
And I would like to apologize for misspelling Shippou's name
So enjoy what you can chew on for now! ^.^
DISCLAMER: If you haven't seen the episode after Sango is introduced where they explain how the Shikon no tama came to be and you don't want anything spoiled stop now!
I don't own Inu-Yasha Rumiko Takahashi does with that said on with Chapter Eight!!!
InuYasha Beyond the Skin Chapter eight 'The choice she made'
Sango sent her riders out while Shippou and Mushiro discussed possible origins of Marina. Sango and Miroku's children frequently came in to torment Shippou, gawk at Marina, and beg Mushiro to teach them to fight like him. Two days passed, Marina only stirred to open her eyes to watch the sun set. Marina's dreams were filled with the same torment that consumed her heart. She dreamt Mushiro and Shippou each begged her over and over again to come to him and him alone. She would take a step and look at Koyasha who stood with his back to her ignoring her. Why had she come to this place surely it hadn't been just because of a promise she made. Maybe she followed because for once a person didn't want her around or even near them. It surprised her to realize she disliked the attention people paid to her. She wanted to be unwanted. Even when Koyasha tried to stay away from her she sought his company. "I'm not special in his eyes he sees me for just me. Come to think of it why is Mushiro even in my dreams, I just met him!" She was sick of dreaming, of tormenting herself, and of suffering heart ach over her own indecisions. Her eyes opened to a commotion. The town seemed in an uproar.
"The girls in here Kagome" "Thank you Sango, I've been wanting to speak with her since we met." "I'll see that no one bothers you till you're ready." "Uh... That means InuYasha too Sango." Kagome winked to Sango who laughed. "I think he'll be too busy talking to Mushiro." "Oh, I didn't know he was here too! But that can wait till later." "I'll see you in a while." Kagome nodded and entered the temple. Marina sat up she brushed the hair out of her face and looked down at what lay in her hand. It was the white tie Koyasha used in his hair. She could only tell it was his by the silver and black hair that was tangled around it. ("Is there something else I've forgotten, how did I get this?") She hid the hair tie under her covers seeing Kagome enter. "Good timing, I was afraid you wouldn't be awake." "Miss Kagome?" "Sango sent for me a couple of days ago." "Have I really been asleep that long?" Marina struggled to sit up. "Here let me help you." Kagome scurried over and braced her back. Marina winced in pain as she could feel one of the crud stitches pulling under the stress. The covers fell from her naked body. She gasped and huddled the covers around her body to hide it from view. Kagome giggled "Don't worry it's nothing I haven't seen before. But that wound looks pretty bad, you should be more careful." Marina's sad sober gaze met with Kagome's caring eyes. "Bad dreams, huh?" Marina's eyes shifted away feeling Kagome searching her sole. She hated looking people like her in the eyes. They seem to be able to glimpse into her heart and mind without a word being said between them. "Don't mind those dreams they were probably just caused by the pain. Perk up a little someone as young as you shouldn't have such sad eyes." Marina tried to lighten her expression.
"So I see you've met my eldest son Mushiro" "Yes, he seems very nice." "I think anyone would seem nice in comparison to Koyasha." Something about the way Kagome said this agitated Marina. Kagome stepped off to do something which looked like she was grinding several different herbs. "Koyasha is a horrible person; you shouldn't feel obligated to help him." Kagome's tone had turned to a sober note. "You know if he ever finds out you have the jewel in your heart he'll kill you." Marina felt her words cut through to the quick. In the darkest part of her heart it pained her to think that Kagome may be right. Would Koyasha kill her for the jewel? Marina felt such animosity for Kagome, how dare she make Marina doubt her trust in Koyasha! Marina gathered the blankets around her body and stood up ignoring her pain, her emotions where driving her now. She walked towards the door to leave. Kagome turned her gaze to Marina the jewel faded from a harmless cool blue to an ominous shade of purple. "Please don't leave!" Kagome yelled in despair. Marina paused and kept staring forward, "I don't have to stay here and listen to you verbally bash your own son." She turned her head to face Kagome "If my parents treated me, like you do Koyasha, I'd probably disown them too." Kagome could see the anger in her eyes. Kagome felt ashamed of herself. "Listen Marina, there are some things I must tell you about Koyasha before you leave and about the Shikon jewel. She felt the fire in her heart settle; she would finally learn something about this mysterious jewel she protected.
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Koyasha sat in the woods slightly irritated with his situation. "God Damn Brother of Mine! Why the hell'd you have to show up?!" Koyasha remembered back on that day. the day he killed Mushiro.
(Flash back)
Mushiro's eyes filled with angry tears, "All those people, how could you KoYasha!?!" They stood in the midst of a village dressed in blood. Several buildings burned around them. Young children cried over their dead and mutilated parents. Koyasha held his head down. "I didn't kill them." His hair and clothing were soaked in red. "Liar!" "I'm not lying." Koyasha's head lifted up, his gaze was dark and uncaring. "Murderer!!!" Mushiro pulled the tetsusaiga from its sheath and swung at the wind scar to hit his brother. Koyasha sprinted off to the side to avoid its power. Several buildings in front of Mushiro disintegrated to nothing but ash. "I told you I didn't kill them!" "You're such a coward you won't even admit that you killed them." Koyasha's face twisted into anger. "I could have ignored you trying to kill me just now. But no one calls me a coward!" Mushiro lost sight of Koyasha as the dust enveloped his body Mushiro lunged at the cloud slicing through it, but Koyasha was gone. "Turn around Mushiro!" Mushiro whirled around and felt Koyasha's hand pierce through his chest. "Let it never be said I would ever stab someone in the back." The cold chill of death crept over Mushiro's body. He fell down lifeless. No Koyasha was not a coward he wanted to be sure his victims saw who killed them. "May I never bring you any more grief, big brother." Koyasha laid his brothers body next to the village's shrine with the Tetsusaiga placed in his hands. A single tear fell from Koyasha's face onto the blade and trickled down.
"I'm surprised Koyasha. I thought you still cared for your family despite there disapproval." "He was in my way." A dark figure leaped down from the roof of the shrine and landed a few feet away from him. "Those villagers would have been no problem to get past; you didn't have to kill all of them." "I didn't kill them all. I left the children alone." "Hmm, you only left them alone because I kept you from killing them." "Why don't you take the sword he won't need it now?" Koyasha grabbed the figure by the neck. "The sword is my business not yours." His eyes glowed in the glitter of the flames. "It was only a suggestion, there's no need to get testy." "I'm leaving" Several children ran up to Koyasha and begged him to make their parents better. The figure walked behind Koyasha, when the children saw the cloaked figure they coward away. She lifted back her hood revealing her cold blue eyes and a few strands of dark brown hair. Several children ran to the bodies of their parents and began sobbing themselves horse. She laughed wickedly stomping on the head of an older woman and walked on past the terrified children. Koyasha shooed the two children who still clung to him away. "You didn't have to do that." "Awe, I was only having a little fun." "So what's your idea of a lot of fun, massacring an entire army?" "I never thought about it really." She covered her face back with the hood and continued on.
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Koyasha leaned forward and opened his eyes. "I wonder what happened to her?" He felt something slip from his Kimono and land in his lap. He looked down the little red velvet book lay in his lap. "I almost forgot I had this." He opened the journal to where he had left off.
("I'm so bad here I said I'd write in this every day and it's been almost four months. But I've been reading up on ancient Japanese culture. It amazes me to learn there are so many different stories about demons. I wonder if some of them are based on real occurrences? But I guess that's impossible how could demon's exist. sigh. it was a pleasant thought. I wonder if it's strange for someone like me to want demons to exist.") "She rambles a lot. A human wanting demon's to exist, that's rich. Eh what do I care?" He tossed the book to the side. A page laid open that Koyasha glance at it. ("It's lonely some times. No one understands me. I have many friends but few seem to take the time to really listen. I wonder if there will ever be someone that can relate with me. That reminds me, the most popular boy in school asked me out today. As if! I have no interest in that selfish, self obsessing worm! I don't care if they say he's good looking he's a creep! If I'm to fall in love, I guess he'd have to be kind; maybe a little on the strange side I guess an outcast, but above all else not want me but really love me just for me not for my looks. I guess that sounds conceited to call myself attractive. Personally I think I'm kind of plain. But I want my first kiss to be special and to be with someone I really like not just some random man who's interested. I know I would have to truly love him. But what am I talking about, who cares about falling in love I have more important things to do, like study up for my semester tests!")
Koyasha picked the book up again and placed it in his Kimono. "I'll read it later if I get board." Koyasha caught a faint sent on the tip of the wind. "Kirara?" He sniffed again. "Not only her but my parents." His face looked disgusted. "They'll be after the girl." His eyes slanted and he sprinted off back to towards the village.
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"Listen, the Shikon no tama was actually born from the heart of an ancient priestess. She could trap and purify demons souls. Several enormous demons joined in an attack against her in that battle the Shikon jewel was born trapping their battle within it. The jewel can shift to good or evil depending on the purity of ones soul." "So what you mean is their can be no Yin and Yang it must be pure good or pure evil that will break the curse." "Preferably good, but yes that's the general idea. You must know something else though." Marina sat back down and listened. "KoYasha's really no the person you think he is." Marina's eyes showed her distain for Kagome's words. "Before he was sealed to the tree he not only murdered his own brother but he massacred several villages before that. He left the children crying in the streets over the bodies of their parents. Marina's eyes looked horrified. "In this time Koyasha is just a boy barely fifteen. But the one from our time has matured into an adult. We don't know what he's capable of in this form." "I don't believe you." Marina didn't want to even consider Kagome's words were true. "You don't have to stay with him; I know you're not evil!" A tear rolled down Marina's face "I promised, can't you understand that! A promise to me is a sacred vow. I can't just break a promise." "But." "It is more important than good VS evil." Kagome felt defeated there was no convincing this girl the path she was taking was wrong. She already knew it was wrong but she kept on despite normal reason. Kagome would have to be underhanded to try and sway her. "You know he doesn't care for you, He'll just use you till you lose your usefulness." Tears rolled down Marina's face. Kagome words seemed true but cruel in nature. "I'm sorry I just don't want to see a person like you die."
Kagome walked back over to the concoction she'd been working on. "I brought you some clothes. The kimono you wore the other day looked expensive and I figured you didn't have anything else." Kagome tossed the bundle to her. Marina held the bundle against her breast. "I guess we're enemies then", Marina's words were sad. "Then this will be our last visit on friendly terms." "If you're as determined as you say, to keep that promise you made, then I'm afraid so." Marina let the covers fall from her. "I would like to have been friends, but sometimes we just can't have both." Something about the words Kagome spoke tore through Marina's heart. ("Sometimes we just can't have both.") Those were the last words Marina's mother spoke to her before the she flat lined in the hospital. She hated Kagome for saying that, but it wasn't Kagome's fault she didn't know. Marina looked down and saw her underclothes lying on top. She put the clothing on and felt sheepish they were the garments of a priestess. Red hakama pants and white kimono with the decorative large red stitches at the end of the sleeves. The pants were hot and heavy on her legs in the warm weather. She picked up her sword and placed it in her sash.
Kagome whipped her for head "Done" She picked up the bowl and dumped the contents into a pouch. "Here take a pinch of this with some tea whenever the pain gets too sever. " Marina knelt down and took the pouch. Kagome patted off her clothing and stood up. "Thank you Miss Kagome." Kagome looked over at her "Hey, you're shorter than me. I thought American's were supposed to be tall?" Marina smiled slightly "Your not that much taller than me, and besides my whole family's short." Kagome smiled. "As I hear the young men around here seem quite taken with you." "You can tell them I'm not interested." Kagome looked surprised "Why, do you have a boyfriend?" Marina shook her head and lightly blushed. "OH, I see." Kagome said slyly. Someone knocked at the door. "Mommy can I come in now?" Marina's face was overly joyful to hear Fujiko's cute voice. "Come in!" Marina chimed before Kagome could say otherwise. Fujiko's bright face poked in and smiled from ear to ear. "Hey, you're that nice lady from before." Fujiko lunged over to Marina and squeezed her waist in a death lock. Marina gritted her teeth to keep from screaming. "Fujiko Don't!!" Fujiko jumped back startled. Marina's face began to sweat and the world went black again.
Kagome bolted to Marina as she fainted. She barely caught her. "Quick Fujiko go get some water and fetch Sango. Fujiko tripped over Kirara running out the door. Kirara walked over and sniffed Marina looked up at Kagome and back to Marina. She nuzzled Marina's hand and began licking it. ("Kirara seems to trust her so she must be good.") Kirara snuggled into the crevasse of Marina's arm and lay, occasional looking up at Kagome and mewing.
Fujiko was a blur running this way and that looking for Sango. Fujiko skidded to a halt in front of a small gathering of friends and family. "There you are Mrs. Sango. Mommy needs you right away and she said bring some water." Sango's face turned grave she grabbed a bucket of water and went running back to the temple. The others followed close behind. InuYasha bolted a head of them. "That girl better not have hurt Kagome." He shot in the door ready to fight and looked at Kagome who cradled Marina's upper body in her lap. "I'm ok InuYasha." Sango shot past Inuyasha and to Kagome's side. Miroku, Shippou, and Mushiro pushed in, Shippo nearly knocked InuYasha over trying to get in to make sure Marina was alright. "What happened is she ok?" "She'll be fine, calm down Shippou."
Marina was lost in her dreams. (Her eyes were fuzzy but soon cleared. Koyasha sat at her side. "Those fools I wasn't even trying to sneak in and got past them with no trouble. Well it looks like you're not dead yet." "Not yet" her eyes adjusted to the faint light from the moon, and saw Koyasha peering over her. "You're not here to get me yet are you?" "I can't take you like this you'd never heal. Then you would be useless." "Mmm" she lightly nodded her head. "The blood doesn't smell as fresh; they must have tied the wound together." Koyasha went to pull back her covers to look; Marina instinctively grabbed his hair and yanked him away. Koyasha went sprawling to the floor. "What'd ya do that for!?" Marina covered up all but her eyes with the covers. Her face blushed with embarrassment. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to." She looked like a small child hiding in the covers with her shameful curious eyes poking out expecting punishment. Koyasha tried to keep from laughing at her. It agitated him how he couldn't stay mad at her for very long. It was curious to him her true personality was illusive about showing through. She was actually quite shy but had the playful nature of a child. "Go back to sleep I'll come and get you in a few days." "Ok" He stood up and left. She went to close her eyes and noticed something on the floor. In the minor skirmish she had had with the nosey KoYasha's hair, she had pulled out his hair tie. She picked it up and gripped it in her hand, then went back to sleep.)
Marina opened her eyes groggily to fuzz, she saw someone with dog ears looming over her. "KoYasha?" "Far from it." She blinked a few times and Inu- Yasha came into view. Her eyes widened and saw the others in the room. ("Would people just leave me alone? I'm not some kind of freak for display!") Her gaze wandered down to an almost cat like creature with two tails staring at her. She faintly smiled and it leaned up and nuzzled her cheek. She giggled slightly then fell silent as she noticed everyone staring. She covered her head over with the covers catching Kirara underneath. "Stop staring at me!" Kirara mewed, "I'm sorry I didn't mean you." She whispered to Kirara. Kirara's eyes closed and she swished her tails merrily. Marina smiled at the funny little creature. Kirara snuggled against Marina's face. Kagome pulled back the covers from Marina's face. All but Sango and I are outside." "Don't forget me Mommy!" Fujiko said hopping up and down from her hiding spot. Sango snatched Fujiko by the ear. "Oww that hurts Mrs. Sango!" Sango started to drag her to the door. "It's ok she's fine." Marina said propping up on her elbow. Kirara jumped onto Marina's lab and stared over at Fujiko. "Wow I've never seen Kirara take to a person so quickly." Fujiko said tugging away from Sango. "Get back here you little imp!" Fujiko scurried over to Marina's side. "I'm sorry I hurt you Miss Marina." Marina smiled "Its ok you didn't know." Marina reached up and patted Fujiko's head. "You sure don't hold a grudge like Daddy." Fujiko's playful eyes landed on Kirara who sat wearily eyeing her. Something sparkled in her eyes and Kirara bolted for the door which Sango held open. Fujiko followed after her giggling "Capture the tail!" They heard a yelp from outside. "Sorry Shippou caught the wrong tail." And her voice trailed off laughing and giggling.
Marina laughed lightly and regretted doing so, her stomach ached. "Take it easy you'll only make your self worse." Kagome handed her a cup of tea and put a pinch of her herbal remedy in it. "Drink this" Marina took the tea and sipped it, slightly sputtering from the taste. "Sorry I know it's bitter." Marina smiled apologetically. "May I have my kimono back?" "Of course." Sango went in a side room and brought it back. "That reminds me I brought you a brush and some things." Kagome pulled out a small bundle and handed it to Marina. "A little modern convenience." She whispered to her and winked. Marina felt her heart pounding hard and fast. "He's coming for me." Sango looked puzzled. ("That's the second time she's done that, but can she really sense him. I guess we'll know in a few minutes.") Kagome thought to herself. Sango handed Marina her Kimono. "I think I got the stains out. I sowed up the cuts in the other one." Marina looked at the garment "You didn't have to wash them, but thank you." "It's no trouble." Marina bowed as best she could to both the women and stood up. "You should rest some more." "I've rested enough. Thank you both for caring for me. But I'll be ok." A tear rolled down her cheek. "Please stay away from Koyasha and I." "What?" Kagome and Sango looked shocked. "Please stay away I don't want to have to fight you!" More tears rolled down her face "Please, I don't want a reoccurrence of what happened when Sango fought him. I don't know what I will do if there is a next time!" An uproar came from outside. "It's KoYasha! Stand ready!" "There's no way she could have known!" Kagome couldn't believe her own ears, she stared at Marina both shocked and horrified. Something about Marina began making her very uneasy.
The four men that had been waiting outside ran to do battle. Marina opened the door, Thunder crackled over head while the earth glowed fresh, green, alive, and bright; but the clouds seemed ominous and ready to let loose at any minute. Marina loved this kind of weather, it announced spring. She could smell the rain in the air. A crowd of fighters surrounded an area full of movement and action. KoYasha blasted through them, flinging hunters into buildings like rag dolls. Sango darted off, running back shortly with her boomerang. Marina walked towards the battle. Shippo looked to the side as she walked past. ("This is the path I've chosen now I must walk it with no regrets.") The wind sang softly in her ear and encouraged her with its strumming melody. The storm in their lives was beginning; when it would it end time could only tell. Fujiko ran up to Marina "Are you leaving Miss Marina?" Marina held her head up high "Yes, Fujiko it's time I left." "Will I see you again?" Marina knelt down to Fujiko. "Perhaps some day" She poked Fujiko in the nose. "Remember keep smiling." Fujiko giggled. "Is my big brother going to take care of you now?" Marina was shocked this little girl was more aware of what was going on than she originally let on. "He likes you I think." "What would give you that idea?" "He's my brother I know him better than anyone. I want you to give this to him." She pulled out a small crudely done stuffed doll with black and silver hair. "Koyasha cut his own hair to make my doll. He can give it back to me when he comes home, ok?" Marina took the doll from her and nodded. "I will, if you promise to take care of your family." "Mmhum." She nodded smiling. "Fujiko get out of here!" Sango yelled as she readied her boomerang. Fujiko ran off waving to Marina. ("She thinks he likes me?") Marina looked down at the little doll and smiled "Oh yes Ko-Yasha, you are the person I think you are." She smiled whole heartedly.
Kirara emerged from under a building growling. Kirara ran over to Marina and stood in front of her protecting her from the commotion slowly creeping closer. Her fur raised and she transformed into a fanged beast with flames coming from her paws. Koyasha jumped out of the crowd. "Get out of my way!!" Koyasha threw a man into InuYasha. "Ko-Yasha!" Her eyes sparkled. Kirara's ears laid back seeing him emerge. "I haven't got the time to mess with you Kirara!" Kirara pushed Marina back keeping herself between the two. The clouds finally let loose and the rain pored down on them. Kirara's flames burned brightly. Mushiro lunged at Koyasha, Koyasha stepped aside and grabbed Mushiro's ankle and threw him to the ground. Miroku swung his staff at Koyasha. Koyasha grabbed it and twirled it around with Miroku still holding on. Koyasha let go and Miroku flew into a building cracking through the wall. Marina turned around and spotted Kagome readying an arrow. Marina pulled her sword and prepared. Kagome let loose the arrow dead on mark to hit Koyasha. Marina sprinted over and sliced the arrow down as it passed. Kagome's eyes widened in surprise, "No cheep shots today Miss Kagome. I told you I don't want to fight you!" Koyasha caught the seen out of the corner of his eye. The rain dripped down into her face from her bangs. Koyasha jumped over Kirara who still stood protecting Marina. He landed next to Marina. "Miss me?" InuYasha charged at Koyasha with the Tetsusaiga drawn. Koyasha dodged to the side. Marina met the Tetsusaiga with her own sword. InuYasha bore down on her hard; she slid backwards against Kirara, who didn't know what to do in this situation. "How can your sword withstand my Tetsusaiga!?" Kirara stuck her head between the two. "Move Kirara!" InuYasha yelled. Kirara knelt down by Marina. "Oh I see. You're right Kirara." Marina looked down at a puddle underneath her and kicked the muddy water up into Inuyasha's eyes. He jolted backwards confused. "I'm sorry" She then jumped on Kirara's back. The beast feeling her weight land on her, leaped up in the air above the battle. Koyasha saw his chance leaped up on a building and onto Kirara's back. "Go Kirara!" Kirara wanted to jolt off Koyasha but knew Marina would fall as well if she did. So she chose to tolerate Koyasha for the moment.
Shippou ran below trying to follow after Kirara but soon fell behind and then lost sight of them completely. Koyasha looked back at them as they went out of view. Then he took a look at the world below in the rain. He'd all but forgotten how thrilling it was to ride Kirara. It had been years since she'd let him ride. Lightning dance in the clouds above. "We'd better land soon it's dangerous to stay up in this weather." The rain soaked through to Marina's bones. Her clothing clung tight to her body. Koyasha breathed in the clean air taking in the memories of each fragrance. "What's the matter girl, ya afraid of a little lightning?" Koyasha teased. "No I'm not afraid; I just know having my insides cooked from electric shock wouldn't be pleasant." She held up her arms and tugged back in quickly reminded of her wound. "Honestly I love weather like this, this time of year. It makes the world look and feel so alive." She turned around and smiled to Koyasha who seemed shocked by her passion for life.
Kirara landed in an open field overlooking another small village. Koyasha hopped off and caught Marina as she slid off. "Watch that wound I don't want to have to bandage you up again!" "I'm trying to." She started walking and felt her legs wobbling. "Oh, these darn hakama pants, there too heavy." Marina pulled loose the bow at her waist, her sword dropped with a thud. Koyasha's eyes bugged out of his head as her pants dropped. Her short Kimono barely hid her rear end. She laid out the pants strait, pulled out her sword judged the length a moment then she sliced the lower part of her pants off. Koyasha stared as she put the pants back on that now only came to mid thigh. "That's much better! Shorter than it was, but not as short as my school uniform." She looked over at Koyasha and turned to stone, it had totally slipped her mind that he'd been watching. "Have you no shame!!" "Hey, I'm not the one who dropt their pants!" "I didn't mean to that is I forgot you were here." Kirara growled at Koyasha, who made faces in response. "Would you two stop?" Marina sheathed her sword while Kirara turned back to her smaller form.
Marina looked up at the sky something cliqued in her mind and she jumped at Koyasha throwing him to the ground. A bolt of lightning stuck where he had stood. Koyasha's ears wrung from the noise and his vision was spotted from the light. He looked over at where he had been standing, Marina's sword stuck in the ground there smoldering. Her blue eyes glowed like the earth around them. She stared into his eyes, panting. "Are you ok?" he stared blinking at her. "Let's not do that again ok? I don't think my stitches could handle it." Her pupils shrunk and she covered her mouth coughing. Her other arm gripped her stomach and she rolled off of Koyasha. Kirara trotted over to her and pawed Marina's leg. She rolled onto her knees and slowed her breathing and calmed her coughing. She looked down at her hand his hair tie was wrapped around her hand. It went from around her wrist up to and around her middle finger and back down on the right side around her wrist again. But it was now spotted with blood. ("Oh no, I can't give it back to him like this. Come to think of it I must have done this in my sleep I don't remember putting it on.") Koyasha sat up and looked at her. "How did you know that lightning would strike there?" "Simple with Kirara back to her smaller form you were the tallest point in the field. Lightning usually strikes like that." Koyasha's eyes slanted. "We're even now. So don't expect me to save your life again." Marina started to stand up, but Koyasha grabbed her and barrel rolled across the grass keeping a hold on her. Another bolt of lighting struck and twisted back to her sword striking with a loud 'boom.' It scared Kirara so much she bolted for the woods.
Marina opened her eyes to Koyasha staring her in the face. His face turned slightly red. "It was a reflex, don't get any ideas." Her heart pounded in her chest. Koyasha bolted up to his feet "DAMN IT I SAID DON'T GET ANY IDEAS!!!!" His eyes slanted and he turned around. She sat trying not to smile, was Fujiko right? Did Koyasha have feelings for her even when it wasn't the new moon? He held out his hand for her. She took it and was pulled to her feet by him. "Thank you Koyasha." He looked over at her surprised. "Look I don't intend on having to save your ass all the time." He irritated her making it sound like he always did all the work. "So next time Miss Kagome shoots an arrow at you. You want me to just let it hit you." His face twisted to verbally attack her but he heard a crack of thunder over head. "Let's get out of her!" He gripped her hand and pulled towards the woods, but she stopped him "Wait my sword!" She pulled away and ran over to pick up the things she'd dropped. Koyasha looked up and ran over to her and grabbed her hand, then ran back to the woods dragging her behind him. To Kirara's delight Marina was fine. The two stopped running a little ways into the woods. Marina tried desperately to keep from coughing while she caught her breath. She held her hand to her chest and felt the small doll in the folds of her Kimono. "I almost forgot." Koyasha turned his head then realized he was still holding her hand and let go. "Forgot what?" Marina reached into her Kimono and pulled out the little doll. Koyasha's eyes looked both softer and shocked. His words were gentle. "How did you get that?" Marina smiled and handed him the doll. "Fujiko wanted you to keep it till you came home." Koyasha's eyes hardened again and he squeezed the doll in his hand. "That is not my home!" "Then I guess you'll just have to give it to her next time you see her." He snarled his nose at her but put the doll in his kimono.
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Ok I think that's enough to chew on for now!
I hope I wrote enough to make up for my period of writers block
Please R&R and thanks for sticking with the story! ^.^
Chapter Nine coming soon!!