Chapter 10: Heroes Unite
Through the early afternoon light ran the frightened young miko. Away from certain doom, or salvation. She ran furiously, giving little thought to where she was going. Branches clawed at her face while ground-borne shoots pulled at her hakama. Still she ran despite the pain, despite the aching in her lungs. Still she ran as if the devil himself were at her heels, because in her mind he was.
Kikyo dashed as far into the woods as her clay body would allow her. Then she reengaged her senses. He was coming. She had mere minutes before his arrival. Suddenly the fear melted from her mind and heart, for she knew her lover-enemy was close at hand, and she prepared for his arrival swiftly, first casting a more complete cloaking spell to wreathe her in protecting energies, and to render her prey's most important ability, scent, useless. Then she took a knee, put an arrow to the string, pulled back, and waited. He was right on time, and right in position, dashing straight into her line of sight like a fool. Still as childish as ever…She thought, though beneath the feral smile of a warrior was something more like the mirth of a woman admiring a child she loves dearly, though knows she must discipline harshly. That thought in mind, she took aim at the unknowing hanyou, turning around in circles, sniffing the air like a confused mutt on a raccoon hunt.
As she pulled the string back farther, it began to grow heavy in her grip. It seemed harder and harder to pull the closer she came to firing position. Her palms and fingers began to sweat, and her eyes began to itch. Meanwhile, her target began to move closer to her position on the hillside above him, though still in the dark as to her location.
Why do I hesitate? He is in range, yet I do not strike. I am a fool! Through hesitation, I will fall again by his foul claws! I must not!
Kikyo gritted her teeth and hauled back on the sting, bending the bow completely. The arrow was pointed straight at his heart, and he was once again in front of a sturdy hardwood. Still, Kikyo continued to hold her messenger of death at bay. Frustration flared again in her heart. A scream of exasperation was building in her throat, as her muscles became as taut as the string of her bow.
I must break this hold! What mononoke resides in my heart, that I may let this monster live again at the expense of my own life? Where this one goes, he brings death with him. Cannot…hesitate…
…Relax, you love him…
I do not! I cannot! He is my enemy, and an enemy of my people!
…Come now, your people have accepted him, and even your dear sister is at ease in his presence…
Kaede…she is…untrained, and easily confused by youkai cunning.
…At one time, you too fell for that cunning, yet you called it love…
I was as great a fool as she. In the end, my life was lost to him, but now I have returned, and I will finish what is my destiny to finish!
…Yes, this is destiny. But his death is not what you desire. Your destiny is bound to his. You belong to him, now and forever…
I belong to no one! I am a miko, and I will fulfill my final duty!
…You cannot, for this one transcends duty. This one is your link to life. Go to him. Lay down your arms and give in to him. Happiness and something greater than a second death are what await you. Forget your duty. Become a woman…
…No! I…can never…forget…
Uncertainty bled from her as she released the string. Pure death surged from her and leapt down toward her target. He looked up in time to see the blazing pyre, but not in time to react. He watched in horror as it came toward him, then past him to collide with the tree behind him. He looked up the hillside, realizing that his death had been temporarily averted, but that danger still lurked. His claws flexed, ready to strike. He sniffed again, but still could detect nothing.
Kikyo watched his confusion grow greater, while greater turmoil entered her own heart. She found that she relished his disorientation, while at the same time simply wanted to rise from her hiding place, go to her lover, and embrace him. Kikyo's mind spun with choices. Her heart ached with the weight of her myriad emotions. Kikyo realized that, for all intents and purposes, she was just as confused as her prey. She knew she had to make a decision. So she did.
Inuyasha heard a rustling behind him and looked up. There, striding confidently from the trees, was the woman he thought he would never see again. His love, the woman he dreamed of and would sacrifice all for, his Kikyo. His mind buzzed with all the questions he had, and all that he wanted to tell her. He began to approach her, but halted at the familiar crackling sound of white Magik.
Suddenly, to his eyes, Kikyo appeared to be limned in white flame. Her body burned with a light that stung his eyes, and heat from her skin rolled over him, making him feel as if his own flesh was being seared away. He tried again to draw near to her, but in vain. Inuyasha stumbled backwards, crying out in pain. As he stood there, panting heavily, Kikyo spoke, her voice martial, displaying no emotion and brooking no resistance.
"You come no closer, Inuyasha." Then in a lower, wearier tone, "You still haven't learned, have you? Always approaching your enemy without heed. You had best listen to my words, if you wish to keep your soul." In response to this, Inuyasha stood up again after recovering from his contact with Kikyo's protection spell. Finally, he gained the breath to reply. His eyes took on the cast of wonderment.
"Kikyo…you're alive? But I thought that after the fall…"
"Don't you mean that you were hoping for my demise? I told you, I will not die until your body is cold, and my vengeance complete." Even as she spoke the words, they struck her ears as lies. "You are either courageous or foolish to track me. I am a miko, and you are my prey. You live now only by my grace. Speak warily." Her mind screamed at her to be gentle, kind, but her soul only remembered the searing pain of demon claws destroying her flesh.
"What are you doing here?" Inuyasha asked.
"That is none of your concern. I might ask the same of you. Coming to destroy another village or perhaps seduce and destroy another vulnerable miko?"
"Kikyo, that wasn't me!"
"You are lying, hanyou!"
"No, I told you before, I wasn't the one who wounded you!"
"Impossible! I saw your face, your hate-filled eyes, heard your voice! Your words I can never forget. Such is the depth of the scars you gave me. You bastard! I should have killed you when I had the chance!" Kikyo's serene mask contorted in fury, so suddenly that Inuyasha leapt back again. Meanwhile, Kikyo brought her bow up, laid an arrow to the string, and raised it, ready to deliver pure death to the hanyou in her sights. Yet again, she did not immediately release the shaft. Instead her brow darkened as she stared again into Inuyasha's golden eyes. He could only stand there, transfixed by the beauty of his love, but also by the pain radiating from her shining eyes. He felt his heart clench and he wished he could only sell his soul to take it away from her.
"Inuyasha, you act as if you are innocent of everything, and none question you. You, of corrupt blood. You, who have killed so many, both youkai and human. But remember, I know you as well as you know yourself. Your desires, your fears, your strengths, your weaknesses. I also know the truth. Do not forget this. The feelings in my heart will never die." With this final statement, Kikyo removed her arrow, returned it to the quiver, and laid her bow at her side. The hate in her eyes cooled, and Inuyasha could now see fully the emotional weariness that afflicted her. Again, needles of ice stabbed his soul in a thousand places, and he ached to hold her, but even he knew that if he stepped close, her hate would rise again. He held his ground, but inside he felt he would rather die at her hands than see his love in pain.
Kikyo began to turn away from him. She was leaving, receding back into the darkness, and Inuyasha could not stand to lose her again.
"Kikyo, wait!" Her weary eyes turned to his. "Don't…go…"
"I must. As long as I am in this state, our paths can never again be one. Farewell." Kikyo faded back into the undergrowth, and Inuyasha soon stood alone in the clearing. Kikyo had gone completely. Inuyasha could feel his soul being ripped in two.
Sinking to his knees and gripping the dirt with his claws, he threw back his head and cried out to the peaceful sun.
"KIKYO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
…………………
Kikyo's heart clenched once, but her feet continued their journey home.
…………………
That night, in the decimated village of the Taijiya, where defeat had once seemed imminent, the sounds of victory rang free. The skies were alight with the celebration pyres that filled the village with warmth and light. All were happy, and through great pains the village gathered all it had and provided a feast fit for a great lord. Food and sake ran in plenty for all. And all partook of each in plenty.
The highest flame of all stood in the center, where the heroes of the day were gathered. In a circle surrounding it sat the greatest, noble and most courageous of the entire village's warriors, its newest elder, an unlikely group of allies, and one who by all accounts should not have been there. Yet in the midst of these honorable heroes stood one young youkai.
At this time, just before the celebration would throw off its chains and run like a wild dog, the young elder called the people together. In a high and ringing voice, Sango spoke.
"Youkai Taijiya! Hear me!" The throng of people, several hundred strong in spite of their losses, fell into reverent silence. The respect they held for their elder was evident in the simple act of how closely the people held their tongues. Even the children fell silent. Sango continued.
"This very day, in the midst of darkness and horrors, we have been graced with a miracle. Youkai, our sworn enemies, have stormed our gates and tried to exterminate us as we have vowed to exterminate them. But they have failed!"
The crowd erupted in cheers and the roar filled the air all around. It carried over everyone, an infection that boiled the blood of all and drove the cacophony to new heights. This continued for several minutes, until Sango raised her hand and once again demanded silence.
"Today, our end drew nigh. Destruction and death were brought into our very homes. A cunning enemy conspired against us and sought our downfall. Instead of destroying us though, we prevailed, and drove him and his army from this place. Yet the credit for our victory does not belong to the Taijiya alone."
At this point, all the warriors gathered around the bonfire uncrossed their legs and rose to their feet. The youkai was the last to rise, only doing so after a gentle nudge of Kagome's elbow. The people cast their eyes upon them, and cheered again. The youkai reddened noticeably, and shifted from foot to foot nervously.
"Other allies joined us in our time of need. The brave Inuyasha, a hanyou, who is not currently among us. The priest Miroku, who lent his staff and magical energy to the task of defeating Naraku. Even Shippo and Kagome dedicated their skill and intellect to aiding me personally. For this, we owe them our eternal thanks." Another cheer burst forth. "This brings me to our most important ally, who was also the most unlikely. He is one of the enemy, but lent his strength to our cause. The salvation of our village, the youkai, Eric."
………….
The cry of the assembled throng washes over me in a ringing tide. I'd be lying if I said I expected this. Here I stand now, sweating my ass off, not because of the roaring blaze behind me, but because of the roaring crowd in front of me. They're cheering for many reasons, I know, but I know that one of them, not the least of them either, is me. They're grateful. Grateful to be alive, grateful to have their friends, family, and familiars with them, and grateful for their momentous victory over Naraku. A victory I helped secure.
Over a thousand eyes are laid upon me, and I search every one, yet find no trace of what I would expect to be there, especially considering who I am and who they are. I should see hate, anger, disgust…but none of that reflects from their dancing eyes. I see different things instead: pride, happiness, joy, and even admiration from some of the younger members of the village. It's been awhile since anyone looked at me like that. Actually, I've never had anyone look at me that way before!
Again, emotion squeezes my throat and heart, as I consider that for the first time in my life, I stand surrounded by people who are simply happy to be alive. I know that not a single one is thinking about their checkbook, or their bank account, or bills. I know they sure as hell aren't worrying about whether their insurance will cover the damage caused by the youkai. These people are happy to be alive. Fathers and mothers hold their babies in their arms, or stand with their arms wrapped around their older children. Young men, scarred from battle, hold on to their sweethearts, some of which are equally scarred or even more so. To my left lay several mats, on which rest the Taijiya wounded. Even they are grinning ear to ear and waving their arms toward us. Warriors and housewives, adults and children, men and women, young and old, all are here to do nothing else other than celebrate life.
And even I, in spite of all that's happened in the past week: my near-death experience, correction: experiences, learning that the people of my home world are responsible for many of the terrible atrocities and injustices that are occurring here, my confusion as to what I'm actually doing here and how I came here in the first place, and of course, my feeling of total displacement, don't feel half bad right now. As is quite obvious, I'm standing in a place most anime freaks would die to be in. I'm in the middle of a village in the Sengoku Jidai, standing next to some of the most loved characters in the anime world. I know that several of my ex-girlfriends would kill to just be able to get their hands on Shippo, which is why I'm happy for the little kitsune's sake that I came alone. The other half of the female population that I knew would probably want to rape Miroku. As for guys, I think that every anime freak I knew would want to sleep with either Sango or Kagome, or maybe even both. Hell, some of the more sadomasochistic ones would have simply died for the sheer privilege of getting their asses bashed into the ground by Hiraikotsu.
As one, the eyes of the people shift from me and back to their elder, back to Sango. I'm a little relieved to have the pressure off, since I'm not used to being the center of more than two people's attention, let alone the hundreds assembled here.
"Taijiya! Today, we triumphed! Tonight, let us celebrate! You are alive, so revel in life! Dance! Sing! Eat and drink until you can do so no longer! We have survived, now let all of our enemies, indeed, all of Japan hear our victory!"
And again the crowd cheers, shaking the very air around us. As the emotional cries subside, new sound comes to fill the gap. From places in the crowd, drums begin to pound, accompanied by the trilling of ancient wind instruments. Singing can be heard, loud, rapturous battle songs. The people, on the order of their elder, begin to partake of the merriment around them, and soon their focus is off of us completely.
At this time, I sigh audibly and walk away from the crowd as the celebrations continue to grow in intensity. Suddenly, an iron hand grips my shoulder and turns me around. I am soon face to face with the imposing features of Captain Tomaru.
"Umm…Hey." First he just stares down at me, his eyes almost a foot above my own, and I'm almost six foot. Then, his hard, square jaw relaxes, and his thinly pressed lips break in a smile. I relax a little, but not much. He's got that 'sadistic maniac' thing going…
"Greetings to you, Eric. Are you enjoying the festivities?"
"Yeah, it's great." Great, in spite of the fact that I was nearly killed and spent most of the day passed out on a concrete slab.
"Very good. Would you mind accompanying me a short way?" Ummm….Do I really want to trust this guy? Well, by the iron vice on my shoulder that happens to be Tomaru's arm, I don't think I have a choice.
"Sure."
"Good, let us make haste." Tomaru then half leads, half drags me away from the festivities and across the deserted part of the village to the armory. Why in the flaming hell is he bringing me back here? Didn't I spend enough time passed out in the back?! I have no time to react as he forces me through the opening and into another room, this time to the left. Like the other room it has a dirt floor and concrete walls covered in weapons: scythes, swords, shurikens, boomerangs, and even sais. This room lacks a central work surface, but on the far wall is a small platform, on which rests a small bundle wrapped in a red silk shroud.
Tomaru releases my shoulder and pushes me into the room, but does not follow. Instantly it hits me: youki. It surrounds me and penetrates my mind. It sets everything spinning, but I manage to keep my feet. I look up and see that the mysterious bundle is emanating a crimson light, the same as the villager's weapons, only much thicker and darker. To my eyes, it looks like the bundle is covered in thick red jam. Also, I am beginning to get that strange sense again, and I suddenly know what is beneath that shroud: a weapon, or at least a youkai bone that could be made into a weapon. But by the special treatment this one is getting, it must be something that not even the Taijiya weapon smiths want to mess with. What the hell am I doing in here? Is Tomaru trying to kill me again?
Then, I begin to sense something akin to what I felt when I first entered the village. Suddenly, I know where the object in that bundle came from, and why nobody around here wants to touch it. It's powerful, and it holds a wellspring of bad memories for the people of the village.
Again, something touches my mind, but instead of a simple snapshot this time, I see a film, a river of images that brings me to my knees.
First I see fire. It coats the village like a crimson snow, engulfing all that it touches. The heat from it is searing; my eyes are watering and the hairs on my arms are burning away. Smoke from the blaze burns in my lungs and forces me to cough uncontrollably.
Next I see people. They are everywhere: some running into the blaze, some away from it. I notice that those heading for the flames are all Taijiya warriors carrying swords, scythes, and spears. Those running away are women and children, carrying their scant belongings in their arms. I can smell fear on all, intermixed with the smells of blood and fiery death.
And the source of that death hangs like a dark cloud above it all, a supernatural lord of a horrific empire: a Dragon. A Black Dragon, just like me.
He towers above everything, raining flame onto the ground and the helpless warriors standing against him. They charge bravely, attempting to attack the base of the creature and bring him down, but it is no use; claws and an enormous maw meet any who get close enough. The dragon still stands, despite all efforts at its demise. Its eyes glow fiery crimson and its jaws part wide in a caricature of a smile. And why shouldn't it be gleeful? Victory is guaranteed. These humans will not last, and the village will be laid to waste.
Suddenly, a giant loop of cord is sent sailing over the beast's head, falling past its face and around its neck, where it is pulled taut. The smile fades. The light in its eyes turns to anger, moments before it is pulled to the ground. I look past the beast, who is stunned momentarily, to the human warrior standing above its head. He is familiar somehow…wait, he looks like Sango's father! But it can't be. In fact, I 'm willing to bet that her father isn't even a child yet. But it is definitely someone of Sango's blood.
Yet it doesn't matter who he is, because the tide has turned, and victory now sits in the hands of the Taijiya. Their warriors swarm onto the beast and furiously attack its unprotected chest and belly. In minutes, blood begins to flow and finally, the beast is eviscerated; its tail twitches once, and it is gone.
As the beast's life fades, the village appears to swim, then disappear completely. Fire ceases to burn my eyes and the sounds of battle recede. I am standing in nothing but empty darkness. Empty, until the Dragon appears. Its eyes, once burning with rage, now appear empty and cold. It says nothing, however, but its body begins to unravel in front of me. Fangs, claws, scales, skin and bones from a twisting tornado. Then the tornado unravels as well, and a stream of power rockets inside of me. Consumed, I fly back into the darkness.
I open my eyes. There in front of me is the sword, pulsing with a new energy. It calls to me. I can hear the dragon's roar in my mind, and in that chaos it is telling me to accept, to receive this last surviving piece of it. Unable to resist, I rise from a crouch and stride forward to the low table. Untying the cord, I reach down, pull the shroud away, and finally lay a hand on the leather handle. Again, power rockets through me, and I can feel the dragon's voice, in my mind.
Greetings, whelp. You have come for me.
What?
You have come to set me free, so that together we may take our vengeance on these pitiful creatures.
Who are you, and why do you hate the Taijiya?
Fool! They dared strike down a creature far greater in power and grace than they! These humans are ants, and I vowed long ago to crush them as such. But these fools apparently had luck on their side, and it was I who was struck down. Yet a new day has dawned. You, young brother, have come to take my power, resting in this blade, into your hands. Wield it well, and strike down those who would harm your brethren!
What do you mean? I have no reason to hate these people.
What foolishness do you speak? Are you not a dragon, whelp? We are the rightful lords of this land. We will rule them, and they will obey our every word! Now, take the sword and be rid of these vermin!
No.
What?
I said no. I don't know who you were, but you are not like me, though Dragon I may be. You once tried to destroy the Taijiya, but were destroyed in the process. Now you want me to finish the job you started? No! I'm not going to put these people through any more hell. I don't want to hurt anyone, and I'm not going to cause any more bloodshed! I don't who you think you are, but I'm not going to help you, and if you want me to hurt innocent people, then you can go to hell!
Indeed, I thought I was dealing with a true warrior, not a groveling animal.
A true warrior doesn't murder the innocent. That's being a butcher. I have nothing to say to you, murderer. I won't do what you want. You can rot here forever for all I care.
…Wait, whelp…
What?
What is it that you want?
What do you mean?
I mean, what do you desire for your life?
I don't know, but it doesn't seem right to hurt anything, unless it deserves it.
So you do not know what you desire?
…I…guess I don't.
Well, I have this to say to you: a Dragon is a creature that knows what it desires, and seeks to take it, and will go to any means to get it. He is master of his domain, and will bow down to no one. In battle, his heart is full of fire and he will not rest until his foe is torn to shreds or burnt to ashes. You seem to be one who does not let others push you from your path, no matter how uncertain the path is. I admire your courage, standing up to me and holding fast to your own way. Therefore I will make this pact with you: as long as you stay true to yourself, and never disgrace your Dragon's blood with cowardice and indecision, I will lend my power to you. It does not matter if you love humans or hate them. I will stand beside you in battle, as long as you heed my words.
If you speak the truth, then I accept your pact. Now what?
Take the sword. My power is yours to command.
I listen to the dragon's words. I hold the sword up, and the youki, hostile in the beginning, has dissipated. I hold the sword in my hands, uncertain of what exactly has just happened. Out of the corner of my vision, I notice Tomaru eyeing me from the doorway.
"It appears that the curse has been lifted."
"What curse?"
"Six decades ago, the people of this village were at war with another powerful enemy, a nameless Black Dragon who ruled over them all. This dragon, like all youkai, sought to eradicate us and rule over the land of Japan. We fought him countless times, until one day he located our village and attacked. Many fell in that battle, and much of the village was destroyed. Much like our recent fight, only the armory survived. The only reason our village was saved was through the might of the man who was chief in that time, Sango's grandfather. His unimaginable strength brought the creature down and it was defeated.
In accordance with Taijiya custom, he had first claim on the beast's remains, and chose the highest rib on the left. Once he had this piece, he went into the armory for three days and three nights. On the first day, the sounds of work could be heard. But on the second day, terrible cries, both man and beast, echoed across the village. On the third day, the armory shook with unknown force and a dark mist covered the village. On the fourth day the screams stopped and the mists cleared, and he emerged, but no weapon could be seen. Moreover, a room in the armory was closed off, and he warned all to never again enter it. All have held to those words, until today.
You see, I, like many others, came to know what was hidden in the room. We realized it was a weapon of great power that was possessed by the malevolent soul of our former enemy, so that no human could ever wield the weapon. When I saw you, however, I wondered if it might be possible for a youkai to possess it. Eric, you have proven your worth to my people, though some do not trust you. In gratitude, I decided to give you a chance to wield the weapon that our greatest warrior couldn't. I know not what you have experienced, but the sword accepts you as it has never accepted anyone before. If that is the case, then you may keep it."
"Tomaru, thanks."
"It is my pleasure. May you wield it with honor, and protect others as you have protected my people."
"I'll try."
Tomaru walks outside and I follow, more than a little humbled by what has happened. What really gets me is the fact that the Taijiya have had their whole village destroyed twice in sixty years. It seems like these people never get a break. Of course, in these times, I don't think anyone is really getting a break, with all the youkai and psychos running around.
"Eric?"
"Yeah?"
"Are you aware of the Taijiya dancing rituals?"
"No, not really."
"Well, we have a saying in this village: 'Beneath a great warrior is an even greater dancer.' It is a truthful saying, and I will prove it to you. Come watch the greatest of us."
Together we walk back to the roaring crowd, where the party is now in full swing, complete with everyone going nuts on the sake. When the crowd gets thick, I have to push several revelers off of me just to keep from getting crushed. Tomaru strides easily ahead of me, easily a foot taller than everyone. They just seem to roll out of his way.
Once through the crowd, I see a smaller fire where several people are gathered in a circle. Three people stand in the center. One of them is Sango, still dressed in her fighting outfit, complete with sword and facemask, but without the Hiraikotsu. No way…are you telling me she's gonna…
We draw close and the people in the circle make room for us to sit down. I quickly notice that Kagome, Shippo, and Miroku are here, all with a heaping plate of chow in front of them, with sake on the side. And there, on the far side, is Inuyasha, looking as sullen as ever. If the fire wasn't burning, I'd be able to smell him better, and I have a sneaking suspicion that I would find Kikyo's scent wafting on the breeze.
Taking my eyes off of him, I take a seat, coincidentally finding myself between Kagome and Miroku. Kagome doesn't look too happy, and Miroku ain't exactly a ray of sunshine, either. Jeez, everyone's got a bug up their ass. Shippo is the only one who seems immune to the melancholy atmosphere, happily chowing down on everything in front of him. Thankfully, they forgot his sake.
Suddenly, there is a call for silence by one of the Taijiya in the center of the circle. Of course, the circle is already pretty quiet as it is. In fact, we're probably the only people here not partying our asses off. Once silence is complete, it begins. The one thing this anime fan never thought he'd see. Sango, champion warrior of the Taijiya, began to dance.
It began slowly, in silence. Sango, accompanied by two other female warriors, began to walk slowly around the circle, her face a calm mask. After ten revolutions, a light thrumming could be heard from somewhere on the other side of the fire, where a band was sitting. At this, their pace became faster, and other moves, like spins and dips were added in. Still, the pace remains slow. In spite of this, it is easy to see how graceful Sango truly is. Her movements are perfect, and I can see most of the men in the circle staring at her. Even Inuyasha raises his eyes.
Two strums of a string, and without warning, the dance ignites. Out of nowhere, all of the instruments begin to play, and the warriors' pace goes from insipid to insane. The circle moves faster and faster, sometimes changing direction with a jump. Swords flash out of sheaths, and the women begin to engage in mock duels. The dance soon becomes something like a battle, which makes sense, given their warrior nature. After a while, their movements become so fast that they appear to blur, even to my eyes. Blows are made, then blocked and countered, or dodged outright, all with angelic grace.
I quickly begin to recognize the song that is being played. It's impossible, but they seem to be playing a rudimentary version of 'Tajiya Sango' Sango's character theme for Inuyasha. How this has happened I don't know, but if Takahashi can make a real world into an anime series, then I guess some composer can make a song out of an ancient tune. It seems that anything in this world can be recreated in ours.
With the finality of a whip crack, the dance stops. The warriors, in their fighting positions, turn to us and bow, then walk from the circle. There is loud applause as they go. The two unnamed women leave our group, but Sango stays, taking a seat in the circle between Tomaru and Kagome. She is apparently in better spirits than all of us combined: she is smiling, even though she is slightly winded and sweat dots her brow. Even so, she begins to notice the unusually somber tone of the group.
"Is everyone enjoying themselves?" A few half-hearted responses mar the silence. Kagome and Shippo respond lightly, Inuyasha grunts, and Miroku, for once, is silent as a rock. Under normal circumstances, he should at least offer some diplomatic response, but instead he says nothing, his face only a mask.
"You dance beautifully, Sango-chan." Kagome chirps.
"Thank you."
"I do agree with the young woman. Your grace has done naught but advance with your age and maturity."
Ouch, there were so many underlying meanings to that statement, I think I'm going to blow a fuse trying not to say anything. There's no denying it, this guy wants Sango in the worst way. One thing though: how does he hide it in that freakin uniform?! I really wish I would have thought about the possible consequences of my actions(which I never do, by the way). My battle against the youkai and the subsequent salvation of the village have had some rather unexpected results, but I have little time to think about this as Sango speaks again, this time to all gathered around the fire.
"Friends, the past couple of days have been trying for all of us. Our battles against Naraku have worn the spirits of us all, as well as my people. However, though these times are difficult for many of us, I believe that we must hold on, and stay the course. Kagome, Shippo, Inuyasha, and Miroku, you have come to my village to seek the secret of the Sacred Jewel, and since you have helped me, I will gladly reveal everything that I and my people know.
Yet after this is complete, the threat of Naraku will still remain, a threat that must be countered, no matter the cost. It is for this reason I have a request to make of you. I wish to join you on your quest, until Naraku is destroyed."
Sango is silent as the shard hunters look at one another. However, Tomaru is the first to respond.
"Sango? Do you truly wish to leave the village? In this time when you are so needed?"
"Captain, I know that my people need me, but they have an even greater need for safety. Our battle here will not stop Naraku's plans for our people's destruction. He will come again, and we must stop him before he attacks our village or any other. We must ensure that he does not cause any more bloodshed. For this reason, I will do what is best for my people, and give him chase."
"Sango, surely there is another way. We can assemble a war party to hunt him…"
"To what end? We know that he is beyond mere weapons, even ours. We cannot destroy him on our own, but these people can. I have seen them in battle, and they possess powers our warriors could only dream of. Captain, I believe these people are the only ones who can defeat him, and I wish to help them in any way I can. Until I return, you will have to watch over our village in my stead."
"If it is your wish, then I will do as you bid. I only ask that your journey be a safe one, so that you may return to us."
"I will, if of course, these people would have me?" This time, it's Inuyasha who rises to his feet.
"You seem like you can actually fight, and you have just as much a reason to hate Naraku as we do, so you can come with us. Besides, it'll give me a break from bailing everybody's ass out when things get ugly." Kagome promptly stares daggers at him, and I wonder if I'm not about to hear the all-powerful 'sit' command. Unfortunately, I don't, so he continues. "Anybody have a problem with her comin' along?" When nobody responds, the hanyou turns to Sango. "I guess that's a yes. Welcome aboard."
"Thank you, everyone, but I have one other request to make. There is another here that has indicated his wish to challenge Naraku, and has asked me recently to travel with you. In fact, he is the one who showed me the wisdom of a accompanying you on your quest, and forsaking my duties here. I ask your permission for Eric to come with us as well."
Huh? Me? Well, I did ask, but I still didn't think she'd really go to bat for me. This is new.
"Can he fight?" Inuyasha asks.
"Indeed, his strength was the bane of Naraku's forces. He is quite powerful." Sango responds.
"Whatever, I'm fine with it."
"I am a bit worried about his control, however." This time it's Miroku. "If he were to release a spell like this again, it could be just as much of a detriment as an advantage."
"My control is better then you think." I say, a little peeved that he's questioning me. "I did cause all this damage, but I didn't take a single human life. On top of that, I was able to destroy all of Naraku's forces. I think my control is good enough."
"Very well. I have no further objections, but I wonder, what is your reason for wanting Naraku's demise?"
"Well, you're right to wonder. I'm new to this place, and I didn't meet Naraku until just a couple of days ago. Even so, he tried to kill me and harm the people who had helped me out. Naturally, I don't like that. Also, defeat is something most humans can't handle, and youkai can handle it even less. All I've got is a feeling, one telling me to go out, find him, and kill him without delay. I don't think I'll be able to just let it go. I won't be able to rest until Naraku is dead." Miroku nods his head, appearing to be satisfied.
"So, will you welcome this youkai as you have welcomed me?"
In the end, all agree. It appears that my journey is about to really begin.
After discussing the next day's plans, which includes a visit to the cave where the Shikon No Tama was created, the group splits off and heads for their own accommodations. Kagome and Shippo leave with Sango and head for her shelter, while Miroku and I accompany Tomaru to our own sleeping arrangements.
And finally, after another in a long series of hectic days, I can lay down to sleep on a decent bed, which only happens to be a straw mat, but its soft, warm, and dry, so I guess that'll have to pass for decent. I look up, and all I can see are the stars, with only a few trees on the edge of my vision. Again, I am struck by the beauty of this new land. This land beyond the stars of my own world, a place where I have been accepted, and where I will soon be joining in a quest to do nothing less than save the world. If I'm going to survive, I guess I'm going to have to change a little, but I think that's already happening. Just little things for now, but hey, I don't think you can be youkai and American at the same time, so something's gotta give. I just wonder if, by the time this is all over, will I still recognize myself?
"I don't answer consciously, but as I lay down to sleep and close my eyes, the answer emerges from my heart:
'I hope not.'
………………………………………..
Well, my eyes are about to explode and fingers are ready to fall off, but the chapter, my longest ever, is finally finished. Stand by for mental collapse…THUD. No! Wait, there is a new feature for this fic, which will appear in all of my others: shout-outs! All of those who have reviewed in the past will get a personal response from me, as a way of expressing my undying gratitude.
Elerina: Different name, same face. I still have nothing to say to you.
ArrDee: You're right, card games and anime do make a pretty insane crossover, but its not really a Magic-Inuyasha crossover, I just kind of stole the whole 'planeswalker' idea because it fit what I was trying to do. It really won't have anything to do with the realm of Magic, though. High literary quality? From the sound of it, you're a hell of a lot closer to writing like Fitzgerald than I am, but thanks for the mondo compliment.
Arsenal: You're definitely right about the fight scenes. I rarely see good ones myself, and I make sure to let people to know if I think a particular brawl got my blood racing. In regards to my personal feelings, I will only say that there are things in the world that bother me. I don't completely hate life, if that's what you're wondering, but I can't say that I'm completely happy with what I see everyday. That's why I seem to be critical of the human race in general in some places.
Aftertaste of a Razorblade: Ouch, morbid name. First of all, I would like to apologize for a certain review I left for one of your stories. It was my first flame and there really wasn't an excuse for it, and I'm very sorry. Thank you for proving you are a bigger person and giving me a good review in spite of what I said.
Eric is a prick: First of all, I'm NOT a prick. Second, if you're going to drop a completely pointless flame on someone, leave a SIGNED review, not some wimpy, piece-of-crap, anonymous trash.
Lady Destiny: Greetings, dear reviewer. Yes, I know, there will be a lot of fainting in this story. Of course, there's plenty of reason TO faint, don't you think? As for the pairing, you'll just have to wait and see.
Kristine Batey: You've got to be the best writer I've ever read on this site, and it goes without saying that I am incredibly honored to receive reviews from you, as well as nominations for awards from IY Fanguild. I hope to continue updating, so that you will hopefully continue to review with same enthusiasm and encouragement. Thank you very, very much.
D-Chan3: You wanted longer? You wanted Eric to travel? You got both! I hope you didn't fall asleep in the middle of it. The damn thing was about twelve pages long. Thanks also for your enthusiasm.
RMD: Thanks for your thoughtful analysis of my work. Now finish it! And remember: you only need to push the SEND button ONCE, not SIX TIMES! Although it did boost my review numbers…
Inugirl0621: I know very well that you like Shippo, and I believe I made reference to that in the chapter. One thing I don't understand: how are people going to sue fanfiction writers if they're writing for FANFICTION.net? I'll never understand legal shit.
DemonSorceress: Actually, I'll write anytime, including the holidays, so you can't possible bother me. You wanted Naraku and Sango, and here they are. And I hope to keep moving and not fall into another writing slump.
Chisaii-tori: ILOVEYOUILOVEYOUILOVEYOU…Okay, now that THAT'S out of the way, I just want to say how much I appreciate your constant feedback. Your reviews easily outnumber everyone else's, and as I said before, you're the only person to review every chapter. I wish you great luck with your own writing endeavors, and of course, your job. Thank you!
In response to your questions: Yes, we will be seeing more of Miroku. He will actually be the center of a pivotal point in the story, as well as his own love triangle, which is now beginning to take shape. As for humans turning into youkai, you'll still have to wait, since that issue will be addressed in later chapters. Finally, the whole 'heart of an angel' thing did NOT come from real life. If anyone said that to me, I'd accuse them of being on crack cocaine. I DO NOT have an angel's heart.
Kiyone Signatta: Ah, my fanfiction disciple. One thing, I don't think most Inu fans have a crush on Kikyo. In fact, I don't think any do. I don't, really, but I do love the Kikyo in my story…as for the whole kissing scene, I'm surprised I didn't get hate mail for that.
Zionna: My other devoted follower. You can't see me as a youkai? I could, although picking one's nose could quickly become a delicate operation. In regards to WacDonalds, I actually put that in before your whole experience happened. But it was funny how that worked, huh?