Chapter Seven: Tragic Adieus and Nefarious Greetings
"Ill met by moonlight, Proud Titiana." (William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Nights Dream)
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With little but the barren air between them, Sesshoumaru could not muster the words he needed to with enough ease. Yet, Sesshoumaru knew he had to say something, for that was the only way he could complete this deed with a free conscience and heart. Kagura's mind on the other hand wrestled not with guilt, but with dread. Kagura dreaded the coming storm, with its foul tricks and devious traps, but she could not deny the emotions that had developed within her over the last few days or the heart that slowly expanded inside Kagura's chest.
Yet, with all that needed to be said by Kagura and Sesshoumaru, neither could drop the pride which radiated off them like a kingly robe.
"Shall we leave to save Rin, or is there a purpose for our delay, Sesshoumaru-san?" Kagura demanded as if she really cared for the girl. Sesshoumaru glared, but not in anger. He looked at her with soft eyes. Kagura was completely taken aback.
"Why do you stare so?" Kagura asked in bewilderment, she had been frozen in her place by a soft stare and all her pride been swiftly abandoned.
"Hai, Kagura-san," Sesshoumaru began, not hearing Kagura's previous question, "before we can leave there is something you must know. " Kagura's bewilderment only grew with the warmth that overcame the typical coldness in Sesshoumaru's voice. "I have deceived you, for this will be no grand rescue mission. It is but a mere exchange...Naraku gets back his servant, and I get Rin in exchange. I am sorry for that deception, if you wish to abandon the mission you may with little offense to me." A small, knowing smile crept Kagura's lips, and she said fatally,
"Your soul can rest easy Sesshoumaru-san, I have long known of this plot betwixt Naraku and yourself. From the very first day that I had knowledge of Rin's disappearance, for I of all people, am not blind to Naraku's cunning."
"You accept your enslavement so easily! Is this not the same Kagura I revived days ago?" Sesshoumaru asked, for he too found himself confused.
"Sesshoumaru-san, I have lived free long enough to know the benefits of a mind purged from evil, a heart free to decide as it wills, and I can now understand the joy of doing something that I wish. If I am to fall back into his slavery do not distress yourself, I have the will to resist Naraku's darkness now." This was said with proud confidence, but Sesshoumaru could distinguish the fears Kagura held deep within.
"Do not force this burden upon yourself it does not belong to you, it is my burden alone." Sesshoumaru's softness and concern had changed to compassion; Kagura had difficulty parrying this with her sarcasm, or pride.
"But Sesshoumaru, I chose this path. This was my choice. Only I can save Rin, for you do not know what tricks Naraku has up his sleeves. If you believe that Naraku will simply hand you Rin and allow you to walk away knowing the location of his lair, you are most wrong!" Sesshoumaru know felt rage at the secrets Kagura had kept from him and swiftly encircled his fingers around Kagura's throat, lifting her from the ground.
"Why have you not told me of these before, is Rin in danger!"
"I have not told you because I thought you knew. Naraku is treacherous and his name has never been associated with honor! It is the least you can expect from such a demon." Kagura pleaded as she observed the rage within Sesshoumaru's eyes, but the anger shortly dissipated and he lowered Kagura to the ground.
"I am sorry, Kagura-san." Sesshoumaru said stiffly.
"Do not apologize, you have every right to be angry, Sesshoumaru-san." Sesshoumaru snarled as he spoke contemptuously,
"How could I have been blind for so long? To not see Naraku's full plan!" Kagura looked away from Sesshoumaru, for she could not stand to witness his growing anguish, but offered up some unlikely advice,
"Sesshoumaru-san, it is often likely that when someone we care for is in danger the mind is not open the consequences." Sesshoumaru glared harshly at Kagura,
"What you are speaking of is weakness! Sesshoumaru, Demon-lord of the Western Lands is NOT weak!" Kagura looked again to Sesshoumaru, wishing to console Sesshoumaru she said,
"If it is of any comfort to you, I will make sure that if Naraku hurts Rin in a way that can be undone I will undo it."
"Thank you, Kagura-san. I appreciate your kindness. May it also be done in return?" Sesshoumaru asked Kagura, his golden orbs grew brighter in relief. Kagura, however was confused and asked,
"What favor may be done in return, Sesshoumaru-san?" Suddenly, Sesshoumaru's voice grew harsher and his golden eyes turned amber as he said,
"That if Rin has been harmed in anyway, I will personally kill Naraku and relieve you of his burdens." Kagura lowered her eyes and in her gratitude said,
"I would be very happy if that occurred, and not just for my sake. His death would destroy many of the great evils that exist in this life" Kagura, due to her revering did not see the gentle smile form upon Sesshoumaru's lips as he looked upon her in awe.
Sesshoumaru's gentle smile disappeared as Kagura finished her polite bow and raised her head, but Sesshoumaru's eyes still bore the same warm look. Extending her hand toward Sesshoumaru, she asked,
"Shall we shake on it, Sesshoumaru-san? "As Sesshoumaru looked upon Kagura he saw something on her face, which he knew was not meant for his sight. A sharp intake of breath, and soft, kind eyes radiated from her revived body. He accepted her extended hand and said with affection not in his voice,
"Hai, we shall shake on it, Kagura-san." Sesshoumaru placed his hand around Kagura's, this innocent touch held remarkable significance. This truce between two equals was more than it seemed as Sesshoumaru's finger's encircled Kagura's smaller hand. The last barriers that had hindered Kagura and Sesshoumaru's complete honestly toward each other had been so simply extinguished with the steady rhythm of two hands swinging in agreement.
With their hands now parted Kagura and Sesshoumaru shared a moment of expressive silence while they both let their thoughts stray from the common path.
"Sesshoumaru-san," Kagura suddenly said, breaking the moments obscure silence, "We best go and save Rin, we are close to Naraku's castle and it is not wise for us to linger any longer than we have." Kagura added mentally, ' If I linger here any longer, my heart will grow more afraid than it already is.'
"You are correct, Kagura-san. We should make great haste." Sesshoumaru said, agreeing with Kagura. Kagura looked out onto the horizon and deep blue sky, dotted with diamonds and smiled sadly, pulling the white feather from her hair.
'Now I must be brave, and face my decision.' The feather grew larger and soon Kagura and Sesshoumaru flew off to whatever fate awaited them.
Naraku's keen mind became solely focused on meditation as he tapped into the remainder of Kagura's mind and read her thoughts like book.
"I can smell my rebellious servant upon the horizon. Her feather moves quickly, but her mind is filled with doubts and hesitations. I can tell from this distance her fear has grown. This will be a glorious night!" Naraku grinned widely as he looked at the empty shell of a girl was placed in front of him. Her eyes held no life, no vivacity, for they were just voids of black. "Sesshoumaru will be happy to see his Rin. In fact, he should be grateful." Naraku chuckled as he added, "I have given him something to bury and remember for eternity."
Rin's cheeks were pale and shallow, and fear exhumed from her face. Her cheeks glistened from the wetness of tears shed in vain. As Naraku drew his corrupt fingers across her cheek he cringed as he felt the dew dripped frosting upon them. Taking a small napkin from the tea table, Naraku rid his fingers of sadness' residue and said,
"My dear girl, it truly is a shame you had to be involved in this, but it must be done. Such innocent youth spoiled, and all because of one insubordinate servant's action." A hollow and cruel laugh emitted from Naraku's throat as his spirits rose in night's coming grief.
Naraku's supposed vassals, who only knew the foul Naraku as Kagewaki-sama silently, noted a chill resonating in the dank air around them. The young samurai, Genji Igurashi shivered as he guarded the main entrance to the palace of Naraku, known as Kagewaki.
"Mura-san, this is foul weather, neh?" Genji asked his good friend Mura Ibotashi. Mura clasped his hands together and nodded as he said,
"Hai, it is Genji-san. The weather is normally foul here, but this current weather is most out of place." Mura pulled his lips into a tight frown and yawned as if he was under the influence of some sorcery.
"Mura-san, I have suddenly grown drowsy. This truly is an odd night, I suppose it would not hurt too much if we slept." Genji said as he felt the same dark and sleepy influence.
"But Genji-san, our duty is to guard Kagewaki-sama's palace, what if he catches us!" Mura exclaimed then, in between yawns he felt the spell take hold.
"Mura-san, you are tired, as am I. No one comes here anyway. Why don't we just guard sentry in shifts. I'll take the first shift." Mura nodded happily, sat upon the wood boardwalk, and said in between deep breaths
"Thank you Genji-san, awake me in an—". Mura was unable to finish his sentence as he drifted off into sleep against the wooden pole. Genji smiled at his friend's tiredness, than felt that same intense weariness grow upon him. He rubbed his eyes and said,
"Perhaps I shall sit and rest as well, no one shall find out." But as soon as Genji was comfortably situated against the other pole he too drifted into an incurable sleep.
Irony cruelly struck Kagura as she felt her feather enter Naraku's full domain and knowing power.
'This was the path I have avoided for so long, and yet now I go in my own free will...' Suddenly, she felt her mind invaded fully by his power, Kagura could see his sadistic grin, and she could hear his drawling voice and feel his rancid aura. Kagura caught her breath in her chest and fell frozen by a low hiss that sounded throughout her mind. Tremors raged through Kagura's body as she tried to battle the horrific feelings it created in her mind.
As soon as the tremors passed, Kagura peered with keen eyes to what lie beyond, and saw Naraku's palace. Bitter memories of oppression made themselves known again and because of this dismay that was caused within Kagura, she suddenly descended the skies and landed on a grassy outcropping.
Sesshoumaru landed shortly afterwards, and asked in confusion,
"Why do you stop?" Without looking back at Sesshoumaru, Kagura said darkly,
"I do not wish to return there. I was once rid of that miasma Sesshoumaru- san, but now I go back freely." Sesshoumaru yearned to see Kagura's face, but did not make the forward move that required and stated again,
"You do not need to go through with this plan, Kagura-san. I will not be offended if you abandon the mission." Methodically, Kagura turned to face Sesshoumaru and saw, beneath the bravery and pride, the honesty in his eyes.
"But I must, I am obliged by my own reasons. Even if I did wish to escape, Naraku has already seen me and he knows of all the fears and faults that my wary soul contains. Now I cannot turn back." Kagura sadly explained to Sesshoumaru as she withdrew from his glance, not desiring the knowledge of what it meant. As Sesshoumaru began to open his mouth Kagura interrupted him, "You cannot aid me in anyway. This is a journey I must complete and a task that I must do on my own. You know the way to Naraku's fortress now, let me approach it alone."
"That I cannot do, Kagura. This burden is not yours alone to bear. I also have my reasons." Sesshoumaru stated coldly, but also with concern in his voice.
"If you come with me Naraku will know your fears as well! You could very easily be killed. It is better for one to die than both victims be led to slaughter." Kagura pleaded in a calm, proud manner.
"I have come too far. I will not give into Naraku's foul intimidation this easily. He is not a full demon; he is but a hanyou scum. "Kagura looked defiantly at Sesshoumaru, and argued,
"But come no farther! You do not know what lies ahead or with what viciousness Naraku will incorporate into this scheme! I will make sure Rin is safe! I am capable to do that, Sesshoumaru-san. "Sesshoumaru's eyes turned cold as he stated bitterly,
"You are proud Kagura-san, very proud. I've seen the fear that Naraku instills in you and it does not inspire great confidence." Kagura suddenly withdrew from her cause and said quietly,
"That is something I believe should remain hidden! Am I truly that transparent?" Sesshoumaru smiled teasingly as he stated,
"You forget, I am Sesshoumaru, Demon-lord of the Western Lands." Kagura said lightly,
"And you accuse me of pride, Sesshoumaru-san." A sly smile graced both Kagura and Sesshoumaru's lips, but quickly faded, as the scent of Naraku's miasma grew stronger.
"Oh no! Naraku's miasma strengthens. This is not good." Kagura exclaimed breathlessly. Sesshoumaru noticed Kagura's look of horror and demanded,
"What does this mean Kagura-san?" Kagura looked up into Sesshoumaru's golden orbs, and said ominously,
"It means Naraku has found amusement and joviality. Sesshoumaru-san. What Naraku finds pleasure in is when his webs of deceit are tangled properly and are likely to cause great pain. We cannot tarry!" Kagura pulled the feather out of her bun and stated, "I must leave now, follow me at your own will, Sesshoumaru-san."
Sesshoumaru observed Kagura begin to fly off in the distance, and followed her shortly after thinking cryptically,
'Now both our wills will be tested. I pray the gods give you strength Kagura. I know, as do you, it will be needed.'
The potency of Naraku's miasma grew, as did his influence over Kagura's emotions. Kagura battled to not succumb to her fear of him and was doing relatively well. Glancing back at Sesshoumaru, Kagura mouthed,
"Do not worry. I will be fine." Kagura passed through the gates and felt stripped bare by Naraku. Every thought in her mind that was once concealed fell into the vast emptiness of the courtyard. Warily Kagura approached the entrance to Naraku's inner-chamber. Her skin crawled with dreadful anticipation, and Kagura's heart beat at the pace of a thousand drums.
Kagura's foot fell upon the first creaky wooden step, and she again looked back at Sesshoumaru, who also held his breath. Forcing herself to look ahead and not behind, Kagura continued her journey up the stairs and noticed two guards dozing off peacefully.
Kagura angrily kicked one door guard in order that she may observe whether his sleep was natural or inspired sorcery. The door guard fell limp on the wooden planks and Kagura then knew what she would be greeted with when she pulled aside the bamboo screen. But Kagura still continued up the steps and through the entrance, not bothering to remove her shoes.
As Kagura entered the lush palace, she shut her eyes quickly and breathed in deeply. When her face was set hard as cold marble Kagura delicately pushed aside the bamboo screen that concealed Naraku. Kagura's fan was held at ready, but the sight that greeted her was nothing she could have ever prepared herself to see.
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Rissi's Recourse-
BOO! Hah... Did I scare ya? Well if I didn't I don't blame you. ^_^ I thought I would leave my kind and (reviewing) audience on the edge of their seats per say. ^_^. Anywho, I am obliged to thank, Zero27, SilverWolf-Ryuki, Jilli-Chan, Ameko no Mori, I, YamiYumeTenshi. OHH..there were more names to write down Yay!
Newho, I have to comment one aspect of this luverly chapter, its slight OOC- ness (in case you were wondering) was intentional to establish a point...and naturally, it was difficult (like this damn geometry homework I must devote myself to!) Ciao!
"Ill met by moonlight, Proud Titiana." (William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Nights Dream)
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With little but the barren air between them, Sesshoumaru could not muster the words he needed to with enough ease. Yet, Sesshoumaru knew he had to say something, for that was the only way he could complete this deed with a free conscience and heart. Kagura's mind on the other hand wrestled not with guilt, but with dread. Kagura dreaded the coming storm, with its foul tricks and devious traps, but she could not deny the emotions that had developed within her over the last few days or the heart that slowly expanded inside Kagura's chest.
Yet, with all that needed to be said by Kagura and Sesshoumaru, neither could drop the pride which radiated off them like a kingly robe.
"Shall we leave to save Rin, or is there a purpose for our delay, Sesshoumaru-san?" Kagura demanded as if she really cared for the girl. Sesshoumaru glared, but not in anger. He looked at her with soft eyes. Kagura was completely taken aback.
"Why do you stare so?" Kagura asked in bewilderment, she had been frozen in her place by a soft stare and all her pride been swiftly abandoned.
"Hai, Kagura-san," Sesshoumaru began, not hearing Kagura's previous question, "before we can leave there is something you must know. " Kagura's bewilderment only grew with the warmth that overcame the typical coldness in Sesshoumaru's voice. "I have deceived you, for this will be no grand rescue mission. It is but a mere exchange...Naraku gets back his servant, and I get Rin in exchange. I am sorry for that deception, if you wish to abandon the mission you may with little offense to me." A small, knowing smile crept Kagura's lips, and she said fatally,
"Your soul can rest easy Sesshoumaru-san, I have long known of this plot betwixt Naraku and yourself. From the very first day that I had knowledge of Rin's disappearance, for I of all people, am not blind to Naraku's cunning."
"You accept your enslavement so easily! Is this not the same Kagura I revived days ago?" Sesshoumaru asked, for he too found himself confused.
"Sesshoumaru-san, I have lived free long enough to know the benefits of a mind purged from evil, a heart free to decide as it wills, and I can now understand the joy of doing something that I wish. If I am to fall back into his slavery do not distress yourself, I have the will to resist Naraku's darkness now." This was said with proud confidence, but Sesshoumaru could distinguish the fears Kagura held deep within.
"Do not force this burden upon yourself it does not belong to you, it is my burden alone." Sesshoumaru's softness and concern had changed to compassion; Kagura had difficulty parrying this with her sarcasm, or pride.
"But Sesshoumaru, I chose this path. This was my choice. Only I can save Rin, for you do not know what tricks Naraku has up his sleeves. If you believe that Naraku will simply hand you Rin and allow you to walk away knowing the location of his lair, you are most wrong!" Sesshoumaru know felt rage at the secrets Kagura had kept from him and swiftly encircled his fingers around Kagura's throat, lifting her from the ground.
"Why have you not told me of these before, is Rin in danger!"
"I have not told you because I thought you knew. Naraku is treacherous and his name has never been associated with honor! It is the least you can expect from such a demon." Kagura pleaded as she observed the rage within Sesshoumaru's eyes, but the anger shortly dissipated and he lowered Kagura to the ground.
"I am sorry, Kagura-san." Sesshoumaru said stiffly.
"Do not apologize, you have every right to be angry, Sesshoumaru-san." Sesshoumaru snarled as he spoke contemptuously,
"How could I have been blind for so long? To not see Naraku's full plan!" Kagura looked away from Sesshoumaru, for she could not stand to witness his growing anguish, but offered up some unlikely advice,
"Sesshoumaru-san, it is often likely that when someone we care for is in danger the mind is not open the consequences." Sesshoumaru glared harshly at Kagura,
"What you are speaking of is weakness! Sesshoumaru, Demon-lord of the Western Lands is NOT weak!" Kagura looked again to Sesshoumaru, wishing to console Sesshoumaru she said,
"If it is of any comfort to you, I will make sure that if Naraku hurts Rin in a way that can be undone I will undo it."
"Thank you, Kagura-san. I appreciate your kindness. May it also be done in return?" Sesshoumaru asked Kagura, his golden orbs grew brighter in relief. Kagura, however was confused and asked,
"What favor may be done in return, Sesshoumaru-san?" Suddenly, Sesshoumaru's voice grew harsher and his golden eyes turned amber as he said,
"That if Rin has been harmed in anyway, I will personally kill Naraku and relieve you of his burdens." Kagura lowered her eyes and in her gratitude said,
"I would be very happy if that occurred, and not just for my sake. His death would destroy many of the great evils that exist in this life" Kagura, due to her revering did not see the gentle smile form upon Sesshoumaru's lips as he looked upon her in awe.
Sesshoumaru's gentle smile disappeared as Kagura finished her polite bow and raised her head, but Sesshoumaru's eyes still bore the same warm look. Extending her hand toward Sesshoumaru, she asked,
"Shall we shake on it, Sesshoumaru-san? "As Sesshoumaru looked upon Kagura he saw something on her face, which he knew was not meant for his sight. A sharp intake of breath, and soft, kind eyes radiated from her revived body. He accepted her extended hand and said with affection not in his voice,
"Hai, we shall shake on it, Kagura-san." Sesshoumaru placed his hand around Kagura's, this innocent touch held remarkable significance. This truce between two equals was more than it seemed as Sesshoumaru's finger's encircled Kagura's smaller hand. The last barriers that had hindered Kagura and Sesshoumaru's complete honestly toward each other had been so simply extinguished with the steady rhythm of two hands swinging in agreement.
With their hands now parted Kagura and Sesshoumaru shared a moment of expressive silence while they both let their thoughts stray from the common path.
"Sesshoumaru-san," Kagura suddenly said, breaking the moments obscure silence, "We best go and save Rin, we are close to Naraku's castle and it is not wise for us to linger any longer than we have." Kagura added mentally, ' If I linger here any longer, my heart will grow more afraid than it already is.'
"You are correct, Kagura-san. We should make great haste." Sesshoumaru said, agreeing with Kagura. Kagura looked out onto the horizon and deep blue sky, dotted with diamonds and smiled sadly, pulling the white feather from her hair.
'Now I must be brave, and face my decision.' The feather grew larger and soon Kagura and Sesshoumaru flew off to whatever fate awaited them.
Naraku's keen mind became solely focused on meditation as he tapped into the remainder of Kagura's mind and read her thoughts like book.
"I can smell my rebellious servant upon the horizon. Her feather moves quickly, but her mind is filled with doubts and hesitations. I can tell from this distance her fear has grown. This will be a glorious night!" Naraku grinned widely as he looked at the empty shell of a girl was placed in front of him. Her eyes held no life, no vivacity, for they were just voids of black. "Sesshoumaru will be happy to see his Rin. In fact, he should be grateful." Naraku chuckled as he added, "I have given him something to bury and remember for eternity."
Rin's cheeks were pale and shallow, and fear exhumed from her face. Her cheeks glistened from the wetness of tears shed in vain. As Naraku drew his corrupt fingers across her cheek he cringed as he felt the dew dripped frosting upon them. Taking a small napkin from the tea table, Naraku rid his fingers of sadness' residue and said,
"My dear girl, it truly is a shame you had to be involved in this, but it must be done. Such innocent youth spoiled, and all because of one insubordinate servant's action." A hollow and cruel laugh emitted from Naraku's throat as his spirits rose in night's coming grief.
Naraku's supposed vassals, who only knew the foul Naraku as Kagewaki-sama silently, noted a chill resonating in the dank air around them. The young samurai, Genji Igurashi shivered as he guarded the main entrance to the palace of Naraku, known as Kagewaki.
"Mura-san, this is foul weather, neh?" Genji asked his good friend Mura Ibotashi. Mura clasped his hands together and nodded as he said,
"Hai, it is Genji-san. The weather is normally foul here, but this current weather is most out of place." Mura pulled his lips into a tight frown and yawned as if he was under the influence of some sorcery.
"Mura-san, I have suddenly grown drowsy. This truly is an odd night, I suppose it would not hurt too much if we slept." Genji said as he felt the same dark and sleepy influence.
"But Genji-san, our duty is to guard Kagewaki-sama's palace, what if he catches us!" Mura exclaimed then, in between yawns he felt the spell take hold.
"Mura-san, you are tired, as am I. No one comes here anyway. Why don't we just guard sentry in shifts. I'll take the first shift." Mura nodded happily, sat upon the wood boardwalk, and said in between deep breaths
"Thank you Genji-san, awake me in an—". Mura was unable to finish his sentence as he drifted off into sleep against the wooden pole. Genji smiled at his friend's tiredness, than felt that same intense weariness grow upon him. He rubbed his eyes and said,
"Perhaps I shall sit and rest as well, no one shall find out." But as soon as Genji was comfortably situated against the other pole he too drifted into an incurable sleep.
Irony cruelly struck Kagura as she felt her feather enter Naraku's full domain and knowing power.
'This was the path I have avoided for so long, and yet now I go in my own free will...' Suddenly, she felt her mind invaded fully by his power, Kagura could see his sadistic grin, and she could hear his drawling voice and feel his rancid aura. Kagura caught her breath in her chest and fell frozen by a low hiss that sounded throughout her mind. Tremors raged through Kagura's body as she tried to battle the horrific feelings it created in her mind.
As soon as the tremors passed, Kagura peered with keen eyes to what lie beyond, and saw Naraku's palace. Bitter memories of oppression made themselves known again and because of this dismay that was caused within Kagura, she suddenly descended the skies and landed on a grassy outcropping.
Sesshoumaru landed shortly afterwards, and asked in confusion,
"Why do you stop?" Without looking back at Sesshoumaru, Kagura said darkly,
"I do not wish to return there. I was once rid of that miasma Sesshoumaru- san, but now I go back freely." Sesshoumaru yearned to see Kagura's face, but did not make the forward move that required and stated again,
"You do not need to go through with this plan, Kagura-san. I will not be offended if you abandon the mission." Methodically, Kagura turned to face Sesshoumaru and saw, beneath the bravery and pride, the honesty in his eyes.
"But I must, I am obliged by my own reasons. Even if I did wish to escape, Naraku has already seen me and he knows of all the fears and faults that my wary soul contains. Now I cannot turn back." Kagura sadly explained to Sesshoumaru as she withdrew from his glance, not desiring the knowledge of what it meant. As Sesshoumaru began to open his mouth Kagura interrupted him, "You cannot aid me in anyway. This is a journey I must complete and a task that I must do on my own. You know the way to Naraku's fortress now, let me approach it alone."
"That I cannot do, Kagura. This burden is not yours alone to bear. I also have my reasons." Sesshoumaru stated coldly, but also with concern in his voice.
"If you come with me Naraku will know your fears as well! You could very easily be killed. It is better for one to die than both victims be led to slaughter." Kagura pleaded in a calm, proud manner.
"I have come too far. I will not give into Naraku's foul intimidation this easily. He is not a full demon; he is but a hanyou scum. "Kagura looked defiantly at Sesshoumaru, and argued,
"But come no farther! You do not know what lies ahead or with what viciousness Naraku will incorporate into this scheme! I will make sure Rin is safe! I am capable to do that, Sesshoumaru-san. "Sesshoumaru's eyes turned cold as he stated bitterly,
"You are proud Kagura-san, very proud. I've seen the fear that Naraku instills in you and it does not inspire great confidence." Kagura suddenly withdrew from her cause and said quietly,
"That is something I believe should remain hidden! Am I truly that transparent?" Sesshoumaru smiled teasingly as he stated,
"You forget, I am Sesshoumaru, Demon-lord of the Western Lands." Kagura said lightly,
"And you accuse me of pride, Sesshoumaru-san." A sly smile graced both Kagura and Sesshoumaru's lips, but quickly faded, as the scent of Naraku's miasma grew stronger.
"Oh no! Naraku's miasma strengthens. This is not good." Kagura exclaimed breathlessly. Sesshoumaru noticed Kagura's look of horror and demanded,
"What does this mean Kagura-san?" Kagura looked up into Sesshoumaru's golden orbs, and said ominously,
"It means Naraku has found amusement and joviality. Sesshoumaru-san. What Naraku finds pleasure in is when his webs of deceit are tangled properly and are likely to cause great pain. We cannot tarry!" Kagura pulled the feather out of her bun and stated, "I must leave now, follow me at your own will, Sesshoumaru-san."
Sesshoumaru observed Kagura begin to fly off in the distance, and followed her shortly after thinking cryptically,
'Now both our wills will be tested. I pray the gods give you strength Kagura. I know, as do you, it will be needed.'
The potency of Naraku's miasma grew, as did his influence over Kagura's emotions. Kagura battled to not succumb to her fear of him and was doing relatively well. Glancing back at Sesshoumaru, Kagura mouthed,
"Do not worry. I will be fine." Kagura passed through the gates and felt stripped bare by Naraku. Every thought in her mind that was once concealed fell into the vast emptiness of the courtyard. Warily Kagura approached the entrance to Naraku's inner-chamber. Her skin crawled with dreadful anticipation, and Kagura's heart beat at the pace of a thousand drums.
Kagura's foot fell upon the first creaky wooden step, and she again looked back at Sesshoumaru, who also held his breath. Forcing herself to look ahead and not behind, Kagura continued her journey up the stairs and noticed two guards dozing off peacefully.
Kagura angrily kicked one door guard in order that she may observe whether his sleep was natural or inspired sorcery. The door guard fell limp on the wooden planks and Kagura then knew what she would be greeted with when she pulled aside the bamboo screen. But Kagura still continued up the steps and through the entrance, not bothering to remove her shoes.
As Kagura entered the lush palace, she shut her eyes quickly and breathed in deeply. When her face was set hard as cold marble Kagura delicately pushed aside the bamboo screen that concealed Naraku. Kagura's fan was held at ready, but the sight that greeted her was nothing she could have ever prepared herself to see.
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Rissi's Recourse-
BOO! Hah... Did I scare ya? Well if I didn't I don't blame you. ^_^ I thought I would leave my kind and (reviewing) audience on the edge of their seats per say. ^_^. Anywho, I am obliged to thank, Zero27, SilverWolf-Ryuki, Jilli-Chan, Ameko no Mori, I, YamiYumeTenshi. OHH..there were more names to write down Yay!
Newho, I have to comment one aspect of this luverly chapter, its slight OOC- ness (in case you were wondering) was intentional to establish a point...and naturally, it was difficult (like this damn geometry homework I must devote myself to!) Ciao!