Inuyasha
Coming of Age
((Thanks for the reviews again! This story ending is a bit odd, but it's hinting towards a future chapter. Hope you enjoy. Also I've been thinking about making a web site for this, so I'll post the address if I ever get
around to making it. Also I'm going to start titling chapters just for
fun.))
Chapter 6: Memories Long Forgotten
The encounter with Kisho had proved mildly amusing for Sesshoumaru. The boy was obviously weak and his powers were thrown off its axis far more then a hanyou. All these facts made Sesshoumaru hate any other creature and he would have killed any other creature for that matter if it that had such inferior features, but he couldn't bring himself to do it to Kisho. Sesshoumaru found that even though Kisho may take the look of his father, his true personality remained unclear to him. This mystery made Sesshoumaru wonder what Kisho was keeping bottled up. The transformation he also witnesses was a hybrid compared to Inuyasha, the form was obviously killing the users mind. These mysteries made Sesshoumaru hold off on ending his life that day. He was curious to see the full extent to the depths of Kisho's powers and his mind.
As Sesshoumaru thought silently to himself Jaken of course was scurrying along from behind, "I never seen a creature with powers like that! He can change to a variety of things. I wonder what would happen if his heart was filled with darkness."
The question made Sesshoumaru stop to look at the little green youkai. Jaken quickly stopped before he ran into his master. He slowly looked up to Sesshoumaru's cold eyes. At first Jaken was going to ask if he said something to upset his lord, but then he saw it was indeed not the right time to even say anything. Jaken silently bowed his head in apologies as he took a quick gulp of air. 'I wonder what made Sesshoumaru upset?'
Sesshoumaru stared at him a little bit longer before he was satisfied with his fear. The air hung thick with tension before Sesshoumaru decided to continue moving on. 'Do I really care if his heart can be filled with darkness or not?' He asked himself silently. He felt a small feeling within himself. The emotion was unknown to him and he didn't know how to interrupt it. Sesshoumaru only dismissed this odd feeling for now as the continued on traveling through the small path through the woods, returning to the place where they had last left Rin.
Sesshoumaru only walked a few more steps along the path before his senses told him to duck. Without much thought Sesshoumaru gracefully ducked his head down just as someone's foot flew right over him. Jaken was caught off guard and yelled and practically fainted from the surprise. Sesshoumaru grabbed his sword and quickly slashed the air where his attacker last was, but to Sesshoumaru's surprise his attacker was much faster then he first anticipated and he completely missed.
Sesshoumaru regained his stance as he stood back. Jaken had crawled across the ground to Sesshoumaru's feet cowardying as usual. Sesshoumaru's attacker had moved a few steps away and stood there staring at them both. Sesshoumaru held his sword out in front of him with his face as cold as ever, "I don't take kindly to surprises. You are lucky enough to have even made such an attempt."
"I am much stronger then you think, wither you choose to see that or not is not my problem"
Jaken jumped in front of Sesshoumaru outraged with such an outrageous comment, "How dare you speak to lord Sesshoumaru that way! You should beg him for your life since he spared you in that one moment!"
"Hardly," the attacker said as he brushed his dark hair aside.
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes some and stepped forward around Jaken, "Go take another path around, Jaken. I will catch up shortly."
"Are you-"
"I am, now go."
Jaken nodded his head lightly as he took off running like a fool down another path since a big fight was going to break out.
Sesshoumaru turned his attention back to his attacker who stood with a confident stance. His attacker had raven black hair down the back of his neck and only a patch of hair hung over his forehead. His long ears stuck straight up and were covered in a rich chocolate color brown. The same fur covered his face except for the white blaze down his face. Sesshoumaru realized that this youkai seemed to resemble a horse almost. His cloths were a rich red and seemed to have originated from another country, "Who are you? Are you one of Naraku's offspring?"
"Ha! Far from it. I'm Uma, the horse guardian. I was sent here to destroy anything that's worth destroying."
"Like so many others," Sesshoumaru smirked lightly, "Another mindless demon."
Uma smiled to him, "Am I?"
Sesshoumaru didn't know much about these so-called guardians. He had heard that they controlled certain areas to maintain the dark aura that Naraku had cast. Not much is known about them though.
The two just stared at each other, both having no emotions what so ever. Sesshoumaru was wondering about the sudden attack since it didn't seem logical to him. Naraku knew how strong he was, why would he send some lackey? Perhaps there was something more to this then he was able to see.
Uma broke the stare down as he turned his head slightly back, "Well then. We're not getting anywhere are we? Let's end this then."
Sesshoumaru didn't reply there was no need to encourage the foolish horse demon's taunt. Uma leaped into the air in a powerful leap towards Sesshoumaru. Sesshoumaru of course was prepared and he raised his sword into the air to admit the powerful wind pressure from it. Uma was quick to react and he landed back on the ground and slammed his feet down just as the sword began to let its explosive power out. The power was enough to knock anyone off their feet except Sesshoumaru, but Uma had slammed his feet down into the ground to keep himself from falling. Of course the sharp wind pressure that whipped around him sliced his arms and face some but he didn't seem to mind. As the power died down, Uma just smirked, "Is that it?"
Sesshoumaru again didn't answer and he leaped towards Uma who was stuck in the ground or so he thought. Just as Sesshoumaru was near enough to make a strike, Uma suddenly lifted his legs up and did a half forward flip, kicking his back legs out at Sesshoumaru just like a horse would. Sesshoumaru never expect the impact to be so hard. The back kick actually made Sesshoumaru fall backwards, but he regained his composure quickly. He shot his left leg out to catch himself just before he hit the ground. Uma also regained his stance as he pulled himself back up right. Sesshoumaru was fully annoyed with this, but he remained calm and focused.
"Sesshoumaru I thought you were stronger? Not giving me much of a fight."
"I shouldn't give you such pleasure. Your death will come swift soon enough."
Uma continued to boast on how better he was that he failed to pay attention to what Sesshoumaru was doing. The dog demon moved in such a swift flowing movement that it left an after image of Sesshoumaru behind. Uma only had enough time to turn his head slightly before Sesshoumaru's strong claws wrapped around his neck, lifting him off the ground. Sesshoumaru's claws drugged deep into Umas neck his skin beginning to fizzle and hiss from the poison that was being admitted.
"Now tell me what you are really doing here?"
"Like I'm going to say anything," Uma said in a shallow voice as he tried to gasp for air.
"Then you are of no use to me," Sesshoumaru tighten high grip around his neck until it crushed under his grasp. He merely tossed the body to the side as he shook his claw some that was now covered in blood. He brought his hand up to his nose and he took in the aroma that circled around the blood, "A unique smell. There's another one of them up ahead."
'Then I was right. He was only a distraction, the other must be trying to get-' Sesshoumaru stopped what he was going to say to himself and he took off running down the beaten down path.
Meanwhile, Rin was still in the same spot where Sesshoumaru had left her. She was humming happily to herself as she threw a few sticks on the fire she had made.
"I wonder when lord Sesshoumaru will be back?" Rin said to herself just as her stomach growled loudly, "Ooh, I think I'm getting hungry, but I can't leave this spot."
Suddenly two fish appeared down at her feet. She blinked lightly to the two creatures flopping around the ground, "Hmm?"
"You said you were hungry, right? I had a few to spare."
Rin turned around to see a strange looking human/demon. He was dressed in a rich silk robe that flowed off his light framed body. On top of his head were two long horns that protruded out from his medium length green hair. His eyes were crystal clear while his smile seemed to be filled with warmth. Rin studied him for a moment, "Who are you?"
"Ah, my apologies. My name is Ryu, the dragon guardian. I was exploring some and saw you here. I thought it was strange for a young women such as yourself to be here alone."
"Oh," Rin said in almost a whisper. He seemed to be friendly enough though Sesshoumaru may be mad if she was talking to other demons.
"Hey, your fire is dying out."
Rin turned back around just in time to see the fire die out completely, "Oh no! I wanted to have a fire for Sesshoumaru when he got back!"
"Ah, no problem. I can take care of it," Ryu said as he walked over to the dead fire. He placed some more sticks and leaves in the center and he took a deep breath and exhaled a small stream of fire from his mouth. The sticks instantly ignited in a great flame, "There you go."
Rin watched in amazement before smiling to him, "Thank you."
Ryu nodded to her and he grabbed one of the sticks that wasn't on fire and stuck the fish on it, "Here you go. Now you can eat."
Rin didn't hesitate to take the fish, her smile extended across her face in joy as she began to grill her fish. Ryu watched her in silence as he sat on one of the logs. His eyes held a mischievous twinkle that Rin was highly unaware of. They sat there in silence for a while occasionally making small talk.
Ryu remained somewhat still for the entire time he was there until he heard something coming out from the tall grasses, "Ah seems we have a visitor."
Jaken came out of the tall grasses completely out of breath. He collapsed on the ground with his staff still in hand, sweat running down his forehead, "Huhh..huhh..."
Rin jumped up with his arms in the air, "Jaken! You're back...where's Sesshoumaru?"
"He's...he's..." Jaken looked at Ryu who smiled to him, "Ah! Rin get away from him!"
Rin blinked lightly, "Eh?"
Jaken got back to his feet quickly and jumped in front of Rin with his staff pointed at Ryu, "He's one of those strange creatures Naraku summoned."
"Strange? I hardly find myself as strange. You on the other hand are a different story. I can't figure what the hell you are."
"Silence!"
"Jaken...he helped me," Rin said pleadingly her hand gently touching his shoulder.
"No, he wants something. You can't trust him," Jaken snapped back at her.
Ryu stepped towards him, "Yes you can trust me. Come, Jaken lower your staff."
Jaken narrowed his eyes and stamped his staff against the ground. Just as he did an explosive stream of fire shot out right at Ryu, who walked right into it. Rin shielded her face from the intense heat that exploded out with the flames. Jaken had a satisfied smirk across his face, "Serves him right. What an idiot, walking into the flame like that."
"Ah, but you forget something," Ryu's voice said from the flames as he slowly stepped out. His clothes were nothing but scraps of cloth on him now. Various pieces hung off his shoulders and arms. His pants were now shorts practically, "I am a dragon and heat does not harm me. Plus since I am a dragon my skin is very tough and not much can harm me."
Ryu swung his hand in a crossword action which cut the flames right in half until they were completely extinguish. His eyes glowed a red color as he slowly continued to step towards the two, who were now trying to back up as far as they could, "Now are you willing to listen to me. Or are we going to continue this nonsense?"
Rin looked to Jaken since he seemed to be taking charge. Jaken's legs were shaking some as he stared up at Ryu. He took a gulp of air as he gathered up enough courage to talk, "No...no...stay away!"
Ryu growled and he slapped Jaken with the back of his hand, knocking him a few feet to the side, "Stay over there you worthless creature. Now you can come with me."
Rin looked to Ryu scared. He was completely different now, his expressions before seemed softer and gentler, but now he was nothing but a cold-hearted demon. Ryu grabbed her by the arm with a tight grip, which made Rin yelp in pain. She began to struggle against him with all her might and she even tried biting him. Ryu just let her do it as he continued to drag her with him. "Struggle all you want, it won't do much."
Rin's eyes began to water as she looked over to Jaken who was still knocked out on the ground, "Sesshoumaru!"
Just as Rin called out she felt Ryo release her. Her eyes had been blurred from the tears streaming down her face, but as she wiped them away should could see the proud Sesshoumaru stand in front of her. Sesshoumaru had managed to cut a little of Ryo's top shoulder, but not enough to sever the entire arm and he did it without the aid of his sword.
Ryo held his wounded shoulder some as he smirked to Sesshoumaru. Ryu slowly gained his composer once again, letting his hand drop from his wound, "Didn't expect you for some time. You must have managed to kill Uma."
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes slightly to Ryo. He glanced back to Rin to see if she was ok. Rin was sitting on the ground now wiping her tears away. She seemed ok to him, she was just a little shaken up. "I take it you're one of those guardians."
"Ryo is my name, the dragon guardian. Though I mean you no harm. I was only having a little fun."
"..."
"Ok...the silent type, eh? Well I've come to deliver a message from your brother."
This news caught Sesshoumaru by surprise, "Inuyasha?"
Ryo tapped his nose, "Right."
"Impossible, he disappeared when his son was born. No one knows where he is."
Ryo smiled again, "That's where you are wrong. I know where he is and of course Naraku does as well. Though it's not my concern if he stays sealed up or not. I'm seeking revenge on Tora."
"I don't care of your personal affairs. Speak your message quick before I change my mind."
"Ah yes, I'll do so with haste then. He says to be wary of the Blue Moon."
Sesshoumaru had no clue what that meant. He had no problems to be concern about, perhaps his younger brother was referring to Kisho, "Is that all?"
"Yes."
"Then leave my sights if you value your life."
Ryo bowed his head as he turned to walk away, "My apologies to Miss Rin. Though a human that delightful would be a fine prize..."
Sesshoumaru growled at Ryo as a final warning. The dragon youkai got the picture and he took off trotting down the road. Sesshoumaru kept a firm eye on where Ryo had left to, making sure he was gone completely. As he watched he felt something grabbing his arm. Sesshoumaru slowly turned to see Rin gripping his arm lightly still in tears.
"I'm glad Sesshoumaru came..."
Sesshoumaru was relieved he got there in time. He gave her a kinder glance as he allowed her to grip his arm lightly. He stood there quietly thinking to himself.
'A blue moon? Another mystery to Kisho, but if it's a warning then Inuyasha must know something about Kisho...though I don't see how if he's been sealed somewhere. Pitiful weakling. As always I have to watch over his mistakes. I wonder how long until Kisho finds out about the whereabouts of his father....'
*~*~
"What's a Kohaku?" Kisho said as he stared at the boy who stared right back at them.
"Jeez, you really are clueless on current events," Keiji said with a tired sigh.
"Shut up! Its not like I'm from this time."
"What?"
"Look who's clueless on current events now."
"I'm not clueless! You're just speaking nonsense."
"I think I can say the same for you!"
Kyoko stepped between the two with her arms out stretched, "Would you two shut up already?"
"No kidding, we have bigger problems," Shippo said as he looked at Kohaku, "Tell us, why are you here?"
Kohaku was silent for a moment before his eyes shifted to Kisho, "I've come to speak with him."
Shippo glanced to Kisho who was trying to figure out what was going on. Keiji had settled down some and was standing with his back turned to them. His face still a bit red from yelling. Kyoko was looking to Kisho though Shippo couldn't tell what was going through her head as she stared at the young boy (referring to Kisho).
"What makes you think we'll just let you talk to him so openly?"
Kohaku raised his hand lightly and thousands of demons appeared from the sky, "Because if you don't then I'll just have to wipe everyone out in this area. I suggest you corporate."
"I-"
"I'll go then," Kisho said interrupting Shippo.
Shippo grabbed Kisho by the arm, "What do you think you're doing!?"
"We have no choice..."
"There's always a choice. We can't risk you!"
The twins were surprise by Shippos sudden outburst. The fox was normally calm about things, but it was obvious on his face that he was worried. Kisho pulled his arm from Shippos grip, "You don't own me. You have no right to tell me what to do!" Kisho said with a low growl at the end of his sentence. He walked away from the group over to Kohaku, "Alright lets talk. Get rid of your buddies first."
Kohaku nodded and he waved his hand to the demons in the sky. They all retreated out of sight, though Kisho still felt a bit uneasy. Kohaku set his weapon back in place on his belt and he waved his arm lightly towards the woods, "We'll talk in private over there."
"Alright," Kisho just followed Kohaku obediently along into the darkness of the forest shadows.
Shippo watched the leave and he slammed his fist down against the ground, "That stupid bastard!"
Keiji turned towards Shippo, "What's the big deal?"
"I made a promise to myself to watch over Kisho. To never let any hand of darkness touch him or influence him in any way. He's fragile...and yet I've failed again. Just like before..."
Kyoko bent down and touched Shippos shoulder lightly, "I don't think Kisho is that weak though."
Keiji snorted lightly, "He is. Have you looked at him straight in the eyes? He's so off balance mentally, it will only take a breath of air to throw him off completely. Though he sure puts up a tough front."
Kyoko looked back towards the woods where Kisho disappeared into, "Be safe..."
"Kisho...do you sometimes wish your memory would just go away?"
Kisho looked at Kohaku who had suddenly stopped walking to ask him the question, "Uh...eh...why do you ask?"
Kohaku stared off blankly for a moment, "My memory of the past has been kept out of my view. Yet, sometimes I find myself wondering about it, but overtime I feel a sharp pain in my heart telling me not to look back."
Kisho was silent as he let his hair and himself transform back to his normal state. The long strands of his hair fell over his eyes as his head dropped down some. 'Why is he asking me this? I...unknowingly choose to forget things in my past. I don't want to hear those voices telling me I was a freak or I was different. I didn't ever want to hear them yet I do. Their words pass over my ears forcefully, tearing me apart. Sometimes I wish to forget.'
"Kisho...," Kisho was snapped out of his thoughts and he slowly lifted his eyes to look at the young boy. His own face seemed forlorn almost as must as his own.
"...I wanted to ask you because I feel you and I share a connection. We stumble through this world unknowingly. Wishing to forget our painful paths."
Kisho sighed lightly, "Our memories are precious. We should value the painful ones and the happy ones..."
Kohaku nodded, "Maybe in time I will...cherish each and every one of them."
'No...those words meant nothing to me. Those words were to make him feel better, but why do I still feel a gap? The meaning to my own advice feels hallow."
"Kohaku, be safe and next time our paths cross. I fear it will not be a happy one."
Kohaku nodded, but smiled lightly, "I look forward to a worthy fight then."
He raised his arm in a goodbye and Kisho did the same as he stood there watching him leave.
"I'm...such a fool."
*~*Kisho's thoughts*~*
"Your son has caused another accident. He sliced the poor child's face with just his hands. It's not natural."
'Those words...'
"Looks at his hair...its partly white. Is he aging rapidly? How unnatural."
'...always saying I was different.'
"Kisho you're nothing but a freak! Stay away from us."
'Why? How...'
"Kisho we always love you. Your mom and dad are proud of you and I'm sure they're smiling down on you as they watch."
'Lies...they would be ashamed of what I've become.'
"What...is that!"
'I...am...'
"Its some sort of creature..."
'...a...'
"Its coming at us...no!..Ahhh!!"
'...monster.'
Ryo bowed to Naraku who was hiding in the darkness of his hideout, "I've returned my Lord."
Naraku was silent for a moment before he replied with a low voice, "Good...do you want something?"
"Yes, I would like to visit someone if I may."
"You have asked to see him several times now. Why the interest?"
"I've gotten a nice plan in motion. I grand plan to trap the rest of the little insects. You'd be proud of it."
"Go ahead then, but I want to hear about it when you come out."
Ryo bowed again as thanks, 'Tora really ripped through him. He's still reconstructing himself after the attack.'
Ryo walked through the darkness of the hidden lands that Naraku dwelled. Ryo's eyes glowed gently in the consuming dark. The dragon held no fear of his surrounds as he suddenly stopped, "You know Kisho is going to fall, right?" Ryo said to the darkness.
"He won't..." A weak voice replied.
"You think your boy will actually resist the feelings of his past? You've manage to seal it from him, but he's stronger now and you are weakening in this state, Inuyasha."
"My eyes, my never lay upon his figure, but I can see that he will rise above it. He's mine after all."
Ryo laughed lightly, "Whatever you say. I'll be sure to witness his rise and his fall..."
Coming of Age
((Thanks for the reviews again! This story ending is a bit odd, but it's hinting towards a future chapter. Hope you enjoy. Also I've been thinking about making a web site for this, so I'll post the address if I ever get
around to making it. Also I'm going to start titling chapters just for
fun.))
Chapter 6: Memories Long Forgotten
The encounter with Kisho had proved mildly amusing for Sesshoumaru. The boy was obviously weak and his powers were thrown off its axis far more then a hanyou. All these facts made Sesshoumaru hate any other creature and he would have killed any other creature for that matter if it that had such inferior features, but he couldn't bring himself to do it to Kisho. Sesshoumaru found that even though Kisho may take the look of his father, his true personality remained unclear to him. This mystery made Sesshoumaru wonder what Kisho was keeping bottled up. The transformation he also witnesses was a hybrid compared to Inuyasha, the form was obviously killing the users mind. These mysteries made Sesshoumaru hold off on ending his life that day. He was curious to see the full extent to the depths of Kisho's powers and his mind.
As Sesshoumaru thought silently to himself Jaken of course was scurrying along from behind, "I never seen a creature with powers like that! He can change to a variety of things. I wonder what would happen if his heart was filled with darkness."
The question made Sesshoumaru stop to look at the little green youkai. Jaken quickly stopped before he ran into his master. He slowly looked up to Sesshoumaru's cold eyes. At first Jaken was going to ask if he said something to upset his lord, but then he saw it was indeed not the right time to even say anything. Jaken silently bowed his head in apologies as he took a quick gulp of air. 'I wonder what made Sesshoumaru upset?'
Sesshoumaru stared at him a little bit longer before he was satisfied with his fear. The air hung thick with tension before Sesshoumaru decided to continue moving on. 'Do I really care if his heart can be filled with darkness or not?' He asked himself silently. He felt a small feeling within himself. The emotion was unknown to him and he didn't know how to interrupt it. Sesshoumaru only dismissed this odd feeling for now as the continued on traveling through the small path through the woods, returning to the place where they had last left Rin.
Sesshoumaru only walked a few more steps along the path before his senses told him to duck. Without much thought Sesshoumaru gracefully ducked his head down just as someone's foot flew right over him. Jaken was caught off guard and yelled and practically fainted from the surprise. Sesshoumaru grabbed his sword and quickly slashed the air where his attacker last was, but to Sesshoumaru's surprise his attacker was much faster then he first anticipated and he completely missed.
Sesshoumaru regained his stance as he stood back. Jaken had crawled across the ground to Sesshoumaru's feet cowardying as usual. Sesshoumaru's attacker had moved a few steps away and stood there staring at them both. Sesshoumaru held his sword out in front of him with his face as cold as ever, "I don't take kindly to surprises. You are lucky enough to have even made such an attempt."
"I am much stronger then you think, wither you choose to see that or not is not my problem"
Jaken jumped in front of Sesshoumaru outraged with such an outrageous comment, "How dare you speak to lord Sesshoumaru that way! You should beg him for your life since he spared you in that one moment!"
"Hardly," the attacker said as he brushed his dark hair aside.
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes some and stepped forward around Jaken, "Go take another path around, Jaken. I will catch up shortly."
"Are you-"
"I am, now go."
Jaken nodded his head lightly as he took off running like a fool down another path since a big fight was going to break out.
Sesshoumaru turned his attention back to his attacker who stood with a confident stance. His attacker had raven black hair down the back of his neck and only a patch of hair hung over his forehead. His long ears stuck straight up and were covered in a rich chocolate color brown. The same fur covered his face except for the white blaze down his face. Sesshoumaru realized that this youkai seemed to resemble a horse almost. His cloths were a rich red and seemed to have originated from another country, "Who are you? Are you one of Naraku's offspring?"
"Ha! Far from it. I'm Uma, the horse guardian. I was sent here to destroy anything that's worth destroying."
"Like so many others," Sesshoumaru smirked lightly, "Another mindless demon."
Uma smiled to him, "Am I?"
Sesshoumaru didn't know much about these so-called guardians. He had heard that they controlled certain areas to maintain the dark aura that Naraku had cast. Not much is known about them though.
The two just stared at each other, both having no emotions what so ever. Sesshoumaru was wondering about the sudden attack since it didn't seem logical to him. Naraku knew how strong he was, why would he send some lackey? Perhaps there was something more to this then he was able to see.
Uma broke the stare down as he turned his head slightly back, "Well then. We're not getting anywhere are we? Let's end this then."
Sesshoumaru didn't reply there was no need to encourage the foolish horse demon's taunt. Uma leaped into the air in a powerful leap towards Sesshoumaru. Sesshoumaru of course was prepared and he raised his sword into the air to admit the powerful wind pressure from it. Uma was quick to react and he landed back on the ground and slammed his feet down just as the sword began to let its explosive power out. The power was enough to knock anyone off their feet except Sesshoumaru, but Uma had slammed his feet down into the ground to keep himself from falling. Of course the sharp wind pressure that whipped around him sliced his arms and face some but he didn't seem to mind. As the power died down, Uma just smirked, "Is that it?"
Sesshoumaru again didn't answer and he leaped towards Uma who was stuck in the ground or so he thought. Just as Sesshoumaru was near enough to make a strike, Uma suddenly lifted his legs up and did a half forward flip, kicking his back legs out at Sesshoumaru just like a horse would. Sesshoumaru never expect the impact to be so hard. The back kick actually made Sesshoumaru fall backwards, but he regained his composure quickly. He shot his left leg out to catch himself just before he hit the ground. Uma also regained his stance as he pulled himself back up right. Sesshoumaru was fully annoyed with this, but he remained calm and focused.
"Sesshoumaru I thought you were stronger? Not giving me much of a fight."
"I shouldn't give you such pleasure. Your death will come swift soon enough."
Uma continued to boast on how better he was that he failed to pay attention to what Sesshoumaru was doing. The dog demon moved in such a swift flowing movement that it left an after image of Sesshoumaru behind. Uma only had enough time to turn his head slightly before Sesshoumaru's strong claws wrapped around his neck, lifting him off the ground. Sesshoumaru's claws drugged deep into Umas neck his skin beginning to fizzle and hiss from the poison that was being admitted.
"Now tell me what you are really doing here?"
"Like I'm going to say anything," Uma said in a shallow voice as he tried to gasp for air.
"Then you are of no use to me," Sesshoumaru tighten high grip around his neck until it crushed under his grasp. He merely tossed the body to the side as he shook his claw some that was now covered in blood. He brought his hand up to his nose and he took in the aroma that circled around the blood, "A unique smell. There's another one of them up ahead."
'Then I was right. He was only a distraction, the other must be trying to get-' Sesshoumaru stopped what he was going to say to himself and he took off running down the beaten down path.
Meanwhile, Rin was still in the same spot where Sesshoumaru had left her. She was humming happily to herself as she threw a few sticks on the fire she had made.
"I wonder when lord Sesshoumaru will be back?" Rin said to herself just as her stomach growled loudly, "Ooh, I think I'm getting hungry, but I can't leave this spot."
Suddenly two fish appeared down at her feet. She blinked lightly to the two creatures flopping around the ground, "Hmm?"
"You said you were hungry, right? I had a few to spare."
Rin turned around to see a strange looking human/demon. He was dressed in a rich silk robe that flowed off his light framed body. On top of his head were two long horns that protruded out from his medium length green hair. His eyes were crystal clear while his smile seemed to be filled with warmth. Rin studied him for a moment, "Who are you?"
"Ah, my apologies. My name is Ryu, the dragon guardian. I was exploring some and saw you here. I thought it was strange for a young women such as yourself to be here alone."
"Oh," Rin said in almost a whisper. He seemed to be friendly enough though Sesshoumaru may be mad if she was talking to other demons.
"Hey, your fire is dying out."
Rin turned back around just in time to see the fire die out completely, "Oh no! I wanted to have a fire for Sesshoumaru when he got back!"
"Ah, no problem. I can take care of it," Ryu said as he walked over to the dead fire. He placed some more sticks and leaves in the center and he took a deep breath and exhaled a small stream of fire from his mouth. The sticks instantly ignited in a great flame, "There you go."
Rin watched in amazement before smiling to him, "Thank you."
Ryu nodded to her and he grabbed one of the sticks that wasn't on fire and stuck the fish on it, "Here you go. Now you can eat."
Rin didn't hesitate to take the fish, her smile extended across her face in joy as she began to grill her fish. Ryu watched her in silence as he sat on one of the logs. His eyes held a mischievous twinkle that Rin was highly unaware of. They sat there in silence for a while occasionally making small talk.
Ryu remained somewhat still for the entire time he was there until he heard something coming out from the tall grasses, "Ah seems we have a visitor."
Jaken came out of the tall grasses completely out of breath. He collapsed on the ground with his staff still in hand, sweat running down his forehead, "Huhh..huhh..."
Rin jumped up with his arms in the air, "Jaken! You're back...where's Sesshoumaru?"
"He's...he's..." Jaken looked at Ryu who smiled to him, "Ah! Rin get away from him!"
Rin blinked lightly, "Eh?"
Jaken got back to his feet quickly and jumped in front of Rin with his staff pointed at Ryu, "He's one of those strange creatures Naraku summoned."
"Strange? I hardly find myself as strange. You on the other hand are a different story. I can't figure what the hell you are."
"Silence!"
"Jaken...he helped me," Rin said pleadingly her hand gently touching his shoulder.
"No, he wants something. You can't trust him," Jaken snapped back at her.
Ryu stepped towards him, "Yes you can trust me. Come, Jaken lower your staff."
Jaken narrowed his eyes and stamped his staff against the ground. Just as he did an explosive stream of fire shot out right at Ryu, who walked right into it. Rin shielded her face from the intense heat that exploded out with the flames. Jaken had a satisfied smirk across his face, "Serves him right. What an idiot, walking into the flame like that."
"Ah, but you forget something," Ryu's voice said from the flames as he slowly stepped out. His clothes were nothing but scraps of cloth on him now. Various pieces hung off his shoulders and arms. His pants were now shorts practically, "I am a dragon and heat does not harm me. Plus since I am a dragon my skin is very tough and not much can harm me."
Ryu swung his hand in a crossword action which cut the flames right in half until they were completely extinguish. His eyes glowed a red color as he slowly continued to step towards the two, who were now trying to back up as far as they could, "Now are you willing to listen to me. Or are we going to continue this nonsense?"
Rin looked to Jaken since he seemed to be taking charge. Jaken's legs were shaking some as he stared up at Ryu. He took a gulp of air as he gathered up enough courage to talk, "No...no...stay away!"
Ryu growled and he slapped Jaken with the back of his hand, knocking him a few feet to the side, "Stay over there you worthless creature. Now you can come with me."
Rin looked to Ryu scared. He was completely different now, his expressions before seemed softer and gentler, but now he was nothing but a cold-hearted demon. Ryu grabbed her by the arm with a tight grip, which made Rin yelp in pain. She began to struggle against him with all her might and she even tried biting him. Ryu just let her do it as he continued to drag her with him. "Struggle all you want, it won't do much."
Rin's eyes began to water as she looked over to Jaken who was still knocked out on the ground, "Sesshoumaru!"
Just as Rin called out she felt Ryo release her. Her eyes had been blurred from the tears streaming down her face, but as she wiped them away should could see the proud Sesshoumaru stand in front of her. Sesshoumaru had managed to cut a little of Ryo's top shoulder, but not enough to sever the entire arm and he did it without the aid of his sword.
Ryo held his wounded shoulder some as he smirked to Sesshoumaru. Ryu slowly gained his composer once again, letting his hand drop from his wound, "Didn't expect you for some time. You must have managed to kill Uma."
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes slightly to Ryo. He glanced back to Rin to see if she was ok. Rin was sitting on the ground now wiping her tears away. She seemed ok to him, she was just a little shaken up. "I take it you're one of those guardians."
"Ryo is my name, the dragon guardian. Though I mean you no harm. I was only having a little fun."
"..."
"Ok...the silent type, eh? Well I've come to deliver a message from your brother."
This news caught Sesshoumaru by surprise, "Inuyasha?"
Ryo tapped his nose, "Right."
"Impossible, he disappeared when his son was born. No one knows where he is."
Ryo smiled again, "That's where you are wrong. I know where he is and of course Naraku does as well. Though it's not my concern if he stays sealed up or not. I'm seeking revenge on Tora."
"I don't care of your personal affairs. Speak your message quick before I change my mind."
"Ah yes, I'll do so with haste then. He says to be wary of the Blue Moon."
Sesshoumaru had no clue what that meant. He had no problems to be concern about, perhaps his younger brother was referring to Kisho, "Is that all?"
"Yes."
"Then leave my sights if you value your life."
Ryo bowed his head as he turned to walk away, "My apologies to Miss Rin. Though a human that delightful would be a fine prize..."
Sesshoumaru growled at Ryo as a final warning. The dragon youkai got the picture and he took off trotting down the road. Sesshoumaru kept a firm eye on where Ryo had left to, making sure he was gone completely. As he watched he felt something grabbing his arm. Sesshoumaru slowly turned to see Rin gripping his arm lightly still in tears.
"I'm glad Sesshoumaru came..."
Sesshoumaru was relieved he got there in time. He gave her a kinder glance as he allowed her to grip his arm lightly. He stood there quietly thinking to himself.
'A blue moon? Another mystery to Kisho, but if it's a warning then Inuyasha must know something about Kisho...though I don't see how if he's been sealed somewhere. Pitiful weakling. As always I have to watch over his mistakes. I wonder how long until Kisho finds out about the whereabouts of his father....'
*~*~
"What's a Kohaku?" Kisho said as he stared at the boy who stared right back at them.
"Jeez, you really are clueless on current events," Keiji said with a tired sigh.
"Shut up! Its not like I'm from this time."
"What?"
"Look who's clueless on current events now."
"I'm not clueless! You're just speaking nonsense."
"I think I can say the same for you!"
Kyoko stepped between the two with her arms out stretched, "Would you two shut up already?"
"No kidding, we have bigger problems," Shippo said as he looked at Kohaku, "Tell us, why are you here?"
Kohaku was silent for a moment before his eyes shifted to Kisho, "I've come to speak with him."
Shippo glanced to Kisho who was trying to figure out what was going on. Keiji had settled down some and was standing with his back turned to them. His face still a bit red from yelling. Kyoko was looking to Kisho though Shippo couldn't tell what was going through her head as she stared at the young boy (referring to Kisho).
"What makes you think we'll just let you talk to him so openly?"
Kohaku raised his hand lightly and thousands of demons appeared from the sky, "Because if you don't then I'll just have to wipe everyone out in this area. I suggest you corporate."
"I-"
"I'll go then," Kisho said interrupting Shippo.
Shippo grabbed Kisho by the arm, "What do you think you're doing!?"
"We have no choice..."
"There's always a choice. We can't risk you!"
The twins were surprise by Shippos sudden outburst. The fox was normally calm about things, but it was obvious on his face that he was worried. Kisho pulled his arm from Shippos grip, "You don't own me. You have no right to tell me what to do!" Kisho said with a low growl at the end of his sentence. He walked away from the group over to Kohaku, "Alright lets talk. Get rid of your buddies first."
Kohaku nodded and he waved his hand to the demons in the sky. They all retreated out of sight, though Kisho still felt a bit uneasy. Kohaku set his weapon back in place on his belt and he waved his arm lightly towards the woods, "We'll talk in private over there."
"Alright," Kisho just followed Kohaku obediently along into the darkness of the forest shadows.
Shippo watched the leave and he slammed his fist down against the ground, "That stupid bastard!"
Keiji turned towards Shippo, "What's the big deal?"
"I made a promise to myself to watch over Kisho. To never let any hand of darkness touch him or influence him in any way. He's fragile...and yet I've failed again. Just like before..."
Kyoko bent down and touched Shippos shoulder lightly, "I don't think Kisho is that weak though."
Keiji snorted lightly, "He is. Have you looked at him straight in the eyes? He's so off balance mentally, it will only take a breath of air to throw him off completely. Though he sure puts up a tough front."
Kyoko looked back towards the woods where Kisho disappeared into, "Be safe..."
"Kisho...do you sometimes wish your memory would just go away?"
Kisho looked at Kohaku who had suddenly stopped walking to ask him the question, "Uh...eh...why do you ask?"
Kohaku stared off blankly for a moment, "My memory of the past has been kept out of my view. Yet, sometimes I find myself wondering about it, but overtime I feel a sharp pain in my heart telling me not to look back."
Kisho was silent as he let his hair and himself transform back to his normal state. The long strands of his hair fell over his eyes as his head dropped down some. 'Why is he asking me this? I...unknowingly choose to forget things in my past. I don't want to hear those voices telling me I was a freak or I was different. I didn't ever want to hear them yet I do. Their words pass over my ears forcefully, tearing me apart. Sometimes I wish to forget.'
"Kisho...," Kisho was snapped out of his thoughts and he slowly lifted his eyes to look at the young boy. His own face seemed forlorn almost as must as his own.
"...I wanted to ask you because I feel you and I share a connection. We stumble through this world unknowingly. Wishing to forget our painful paths."
Kisho sighed lightly, "Our memories are precious. We should value the painful ones and the happy ones..."
Kohaku nodded, "Maybe in time I will...cherish each and every one of them."
'No...those words meant nothing to me. Those words were to make him feel better, but why do I still feel a gap? The meaning to my own advice feels hallow."
"Kohaku, be safe and next time our paths cross. I fear it will not be a happy one."
Kohaku nodded, but smiled lightly, "I look forward to a worthy fight then."
He raised his arm in a goodbye and Kisho did the same as he stood there watching him leave.
"I'm...such a fool."
*~*Kisho's thoughts*~*
"Your son has caused another accident. He sliced the poor child's face with just his hands. It's not natural."
'Those words...'
"Looks at his hair...its partly white. Is he aging rapidly? How unnatural."
'...always saying I was different.'
"Kisho you're nothing but a freak! Stay away from us."
'Why? How...'
"Kisho we always love you. Your mom and dad are proud of you and I'm sure they're smiling down on you as they watch."
'Lies...they would be ashamed of what I've become.'
"What...is that!"
'I...am...'
"Its some sort of creature..."
'...a...'
"Its coming at us...no!..Ahhh!!"
'...monster.'
Ryo bowed to Naraku who was hiding in the darkness of his hideout, "I've returned my Lord."
Naraku was silent for a moment before he replied with a low voice, "Good...do you want something?"
"Yes, I would like to visit someone if I may."
"You have asked to see him several times now. Why the interest?"
"I've gotten a nice plan in motion. I grand plan to trap the rest of the little insects. You'd be proud of it."
"Go ahead then, but I want to hear about it when you come out."
Ryo bowed again as thanks, 'Tora really ripped through him. He's still reconstructing himself after the attack.'
Ryo walked through the darkness of the hidden lands that Naraku dwelled. Ryo's eyes glowed gently in the consuming dark. The dragon held no fear of his surrounds as he suddenly stopped, "You know Kisho is going to fall, right?" Ryo said to the darkness.
"He won't..." A weak voice replied.
"You think your boy will actually resist the feelings of his past? You've manage to seal it from him, but he's stronger now and you are weakening in this state, Inuyasha."
"My eyes, my never lay upon his figure, but I can see that he will rise above it. He's mine after all."
Ryo laughed lightly, "Whatever you say. I'll be sure to witness his rise and his fall..."