Well, I got a few reviews for the last chapter, so I decided to move on. I got a comment about the black pearl being hidden in Inu-Yasha's right eye. Well true in the anime it's on the right, but in the manga it's on the left side and since I've been doing a lot of stuff on the anime in this story, I decided to add some manga in here as well since it was of course written first and second of all! Of course I know that Inu-Yasha doesn't know he has the pearl in his eye! Hello people I've seen up to 137 read the manga up to 37, so yeah I know! I mean how many things do you remember when you were eight? However I suppose I should of mentioned this first about the flashbacks. This is stuff that is being pulled from deep within their memories. The flash backs are things they remember really well, or have forgotten. Anyways, this is the last part of the flash backs and keep in mind that the last two are Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru's worst fear. There is going to be one more flash backs for both Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru and then the worst fear thingy. With me so far? Good, and by the way, do you people not read my little notes up here? I did warn you when I would repeat the two flash backs with Inu-Yasha being born and when the little girl was hurt. Oh well, let's move on then!
Winter Wonderland
Chapter Forty-Four
Kagome sighed heavily and continued to stare out her bedroom, the rain still pouring down harder and harder by the minute, and it hadn't stopped for three days now. The dark clouds hid the moon well, and even though you couldn't see the rain, you could here it pounding on the roof. Shippo gave off a particular loud yawn and snuggled closer to Kirara who was sitting on Kagome's bed. Sango and Miroku were downstairs at the moment getting some snacks for them. It had been three days since Sesshoumaru and Inu-Yasha had left, and he still wasn't back yet to come get her.
"Kagome . . . are you all right?" asked Sango, setting a bowl of chips on her desk.
"I'm . . . I'm starting to worry about Inu-Yasha . . . why hasn't he come back yet?" asked Kagome, rather to herself than to Sango.
"Maybe it's taking them longer than they excepted," sighed Sango, taking a spot beside Kagome.
Miroku soon entered to room with a bowl of popcorn in his hand, "I must admit, they are taking their time with this . . . usually an exorcism takes less than a day . . ."
Kagome looked at the monk before glancing back out the window.
"Do you suppose we should go back and help them?" asked Sango.
"Inu-Yasha did want us to stay here . . . but . . ."
"But what if something's gone wrong . . . what if . . . what if . . ."
"Kagome I'm sure . . .no . . . I know Inu-Yasha is still alive . . ." assured Miroku, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Kagome suddenly stood and started to walk out of her room.
"Kagome! Where are you going?" cried Sango.
"I'm going back," said Kagome, making her way down the stairs.
"Kagome wait! Let's talk about this!" cried Miroku, running after her. Sango was about to get up, but her husband turned on her, "You are staying here,"
Sango was about to reply, but nodded and motioned for Kirara to follow him. The small fire cat ran after the monk who was trying to catch up with Kagome.
"We don't even know where this village is Kagome. What do you plan to do when you get there?"
Kagome grabbed her coat and umbrella, "I'm heading to the western lands . . . we can ask Rin and Jaken where it is,"
Miroku sighed and quickly ran to the laundry room to grab his monk clothes, "Well I'm coming with you . . . Inu-Yasha would kill me if he knew I let you go off alone,"
Kagome just nodded and waited for the monk to grab his sandals before they walked out the door with Kirara on his shoulder.
Jarlarg and Rin sat patiently in the library, waiting for Jaken to bring the new scrolls that Sesshoumaru had wanted put in the library.
"When is Sesshoumaru coming back?" asked Rin.
Jarlarg turned to her, "It has been almost four days since he left the castle . . . I'm sure he's coming home soon,"
Rin nodded and took another sip at her tea.
Jaken came running into the room, but had no scrolls in his hand.
"Jaken, I thought I told you that the scrolls are by . . ." started Jarlarg, but he was interrupted.
"I know! But Kagome and Miroku are here! They want to speak with Rin," panted the imp, trying to catch his breath.
Rin stood and started to run to the main entrance. Jarlarg and Jaken ran after her, both wondering why they had two visitors this late in the night. Rin slowed down as she approached the main doors, and could see Kagome and Miroku standing by the doors.
"Kagome! Miroku!" cried Rin, finally stopping in front of them, "What are you guys doing here this late?"
"We came to ask directions for the where-abouts of Inu-Yasha's old village," answered Miroku.
"Why? Hasn't Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru returned yet?"
"No . . . we got worried and came here to make sure they are all right," whispered Kagome.
Jarlarg and Jaken finally entered the room, both panting slightly.
"Jarlarg, do you know where the village is that Sesshoumaru and Inu-Yasha went to?" asked Rin.
Jarlarg simply nodded his head.
"Get the Ah and Un ready . . . were going on a trip,"
(Sesshoumaru Flash Back Five)
Sesshoumaru paced back and forth, checking the sky once in a while before starting his pacing again.
"Calm down my lord, your father will be back soon," sighed Jarlarg, taking another sip of his tea.
"Calm down? Father is fighting one of the most powerful demons in all of Japan! How can you say not worried?"
"And so you have
doubt that he can win?"
"Is it so wrong for a son to worry
about his father? I worry every time he
leaves,"
Jarlarg simply nodded and looked up at the sky, "Yes, every son should worry about his father going into battle, I know Natasha is worried right now,"
"Father and I are supposed to visit her and my brother when he gets back . . . and were going to be late,"
The old demon was about to ask a question but stopped as a certain scent caught his attention. Panicking the demon stood up, sniffing the air, "Do you smell that?"
Sesshoumaru took in the scents around him and froze, "Father . . . he's bleeding!"
Before Jarlarg could speak Sesshoumaru ran off in the direction he could smell his father's blood coming from.
"Father! Father!" screamed Sesshoumaru, running faster and faster. Then he saw him . . . Inu-Taishi limping towards the castle. Blood dripped from his hand, but the biggest wound was the one on his chest.
"Sess . . .Sesshoumaru . . ." whispered Inu-Taishi taking another painful step. Blood dripped slowly from the lord's mouth, and he was as pale as death.
The demon prince ran forward to his father, "What . . . what happened?"
"Ryuukotsusei . . . I sealed him . . ."
"Father . . ."
"Sess . . . Sesshoumaru . . . I'm not going to make it . . ."
"No . . . father please . . ."
"I'm sorry Sesshoumaru . . . I . . . have to get to . . . Natasha . . ."
"You have to rest first . . . I'll find Suichi . . . he can heal you . . . then we can go see Natasha and Inu-Yasha . . ." He could smell the scent of death already taking over his fathers body, but refused to believe what his senses were telling him. He could here Jarlarg and many of the other servants running towards them. Sesshoumaru picked up his father and ran into the castle. Suichi was already waiting by the front door, demanding that Inu-Taishi be brought to his room. Doing as the demon told, Sesshoumaru went to his father's room with Suichi at his heels. Inu-Taishi was placed on his bed . . . his blood soaking the white sheets.
"Move out of the way!" cried Suichi, pushing Sesshoumaru aside.
The young prince was pushed out of the room, and stood to watch with the other demon servants.
"I don't think he's going to make it,"
"This can't be, how can Inu-Taishi, lord of the western lands be defeated by just a mere demon?"
"I'll tell you how . . . it was that damn human bitches fault. I mean think about it, ever since he mated with her and had that freak of a child all he's done is go see her and that pup. He let his guard down allowing him to become weaker,"
"Yeah . . . the only reason Ryuukotsusei attacked the western lands is because he wanted to kill the demon who had mated with a human,"
"It's Natasha's fault that Inu-Taishi is dying,"
"It's not only hers, that half demon is to blame too . . . why in fact if he wasn't born none of this would have happened,"
Sesshoumaru knew he should be defending his half brother and Natasha . . . but he couldn't. The more he thought about it, the more it seemed to make sense in his mind. Inu-Taishi had never been in danger when he had been with his mother, and ever since Inu-Yasha had been born, demons had been trying to kill his father, Natasha, and his half brother. Anger started to surge through the prince . . . it was an anger he had never felt before. He glared at his father, angry for what his own flesh and blood had done, but more anger towards Natasha and that half breed. Inu-Taishi turned his head to look into his sons eyes, looking for comfort that he would tell Natasha and Inu-Yasha what had occurred, but he only saw anger and hatred in his sons eyes.
Sesshoumaru turned and walked down to the main entrance, his eyes flashing red. Inu-Taishi gave a hard cough and turned his head to Jarlarg.
"Ja . . . Jarlarg . . ."
"Yes . . . yes what is it my lord?"
"There's something I . . . I need you to do something . . ."
Sesshoumaru ran as fast as his legs would carry him . . . through the trees, over the plains, one leap across a river, and running through the villages. His eyes were red the whole time, his pupils a bright blue as Sesshoumaru tried to control the anger he was feeling. For some reason he just couldn't sit there and watch his father die . . . he needed to some how release his anger. Then he saw it, he could just make out Natasha's house over the horizon. Growling loudly he picked up the pace, his knuckles cracking, wanting to kill the bitch and Inu-Yasha, but for some reason he knew he couldn't.
As he got closer and closer to the house, he could see the half-breed playing in the garden, trying to catch his ball. The bitch was sitting on the porch, working on her needlework as the two waited for Inu-Taishi to come. Sesshoumaru slowed down to a fast walk, approaching the small boy.
"Sesshoumaru!" called Natasha, standing up.
"Sesshy!" cried the boy, running towards his elder brother, but almost screamed when he saw the red in the demons eyes.
Before Natasha could move, Sesshoumaru had picked up Inu-Yasha by the throat and held him up high.
"INU-YASHA!" screamed Natasha, running to help her son, but was picked up in the same fashion as her little boy.
"It's your fault! It's your entire fault! He's now dead because of you two!"
Natasha tried to speak, but the demons grip tightened on her throat.
"Father is dead! And it's all because of you!" He set Natasha down and slapped her across the cheek, and then dropped Inu-Yasha to the ground, kicking him with his foot so that the boy went flying into the pond. Sesshoumaru then advanced on Natasha, picking her up by the shoulders.
"Never come to the castle again! I will kill you personally if you do, or any of the servants for that matter! I hate you! Do you hear me? I hate you! I hate you, I hate you, I hate you! I hate you and your half breed son!"
Throwing Natasha to the ground Sesshoumaru turned, leaving the crying bitch and pup alone to deal with their feelings.
After that, he had traveled the western lands with his imp servant Jaken, and never regretted what he did to Natasha and Inu-Yasha. However, once word spread that the villagers had killed Natasha, he felt no sorrow for the death of the woman, and had hoped that the half-breed child had been slain. From that point on, he never once thought of his brother . . . not once.
(End of Flash Back)
Rin's legs moved swiftly across the dewed grass. She could here the two-headed dragon above her, and Jakens cries, demanding that they slow down.
"Are we almost there?" cried Kagome.
"Were almost there Kagome! Just hang on a little longer!" called Rin.
The young girl nodded.
Rin smiled slightly and continued running thought the cold grass. Sesshoumaru . . . Inu-Yasha . . . please be alright . . .
(Inu-Yasha Flash Back Five)
No matter what he thought of, no matter what he did, he couldn't stop the tears that spilled from his golden eyes. It had only been a week since Sesshoumaru had last come to the house, and he had learned that his father had passed on. Every night he had cried himself to sleep, and he could hear his mother as well. He could smell her tears; hear her choked sobs, and whispers of his father's name. Snuggling further into his futon, the small boy tried to get some sleep, but his attempts were failing once again. Usually he would eventually go to his mother's bed and fall asleep in her arms, but tonight he wanted to be strong and not run to his mother. Sighing heavily the small boy closed his eyes, and tried to remember the happy times he had spent with his father. Just when he was close to sleep, the scent of smoke hit his sensitive nose. His golden eyes slowly opening, Inu-Yasha stood up and went to see where it was coming from. Perhaps his mother had left the fireplace lit and forgot to put it out when she went to bed. As we walked out into the hall, the smell was getting worse, and when he looked up, he could see the dark smoke drifting along the ceiling. Panicking, Inu-Yasha ran to his mother's room.
"Mama! Mama!" screamed the boy, running into his mother's room.
Natasha immediately sat up, and stared at her son, "What is it?"
"Something's on fire!"
Natasha stood up and took Inu-Yasha into her arms, running towards the dock. Inu-Yasha clung to his mother's robes, and started to sniff the air more delicately, trying to remember what his father and brother had taught him about telling which smell from the other. His eyes widened as he recognized a scent, "Mom! Don't go that way!"
Natasha looked down at her son and stopped at the end of the hall that led to the dock, and she gasped. Across the river were the villagers, holding up pitchforks and torches, as if waiting for them to come out. Inu-Yasha held onto his mother's robes tighter, feeling the tears welling up in his eyes. Natasha turned and fled to the nearest exit. Flames were starting to form on the ceiling on walls, making it harder for her to run. She headed towards the main exit of the house, but just as she suspected it was blocked as well. The villagers and servants formed a line, making sure there was no way they could escape.
"Natasha! It's your choice on how you wish for you and your son to die . . . being burnt to death, or the slowly painful stabbing of our pitch forks!" cried the head man.
Natasha ran to her room quickly before it was engulfed in flames, grabbing the red fire rat shirt that her mate had given her and placed it on top of her, making sure that it covered Inu-Yasha as well. Her feet burned against the wooden floor as she tried to run to all the exits of the house, even the secret passages that led outside, but to her sorrow they had been blocked as well. Flames were now all around her, and it was getting more difficult to breathe. She tried to cover her entire self and Inu-Yasha with the cloak, but it wouldn't protect both of them. The flames were slowly closing in, burning her soft flesh. Finally making up her mind, she looked down into her son's golden eyes, smiling softly as she kissed his forehead and each of his ears.
"I love you Inu-Yasha . . . my son . . ."
Suddenly the boy was surround by darkness as the fire rat robe was being wrapped around him.
"Mom no! Mother!" screamed Inu-Yasha.
Natasha screamed as flames engulfed her body, but she never released the bundle that kept her son protected. Inu-Yasha clawed, kicked, and tried to pry his way out of the fire rat cloak, screaming his mothers name over and over again. He could feel the heat from the flames, but his skin was not burned. After screaming for hours he finally passed out from exhaustion, still whispering for his mother.
As the sunlight rose over the horizon, and the sound of the rooster in the distance, Inu-Yasha's eyes flashed open, and the memories of last night came flooding into his mind. He pulled at the robes, crying for his mother once again, but this time he managed to uncover himself.
The house had completely collapsed, but little patches of smoke rose from places that were still burning. His golden eyes searched the area . . . the villagers were gone . . . and so was his mother. The memory of her screams filled his mind as he looked down to where she had been holding him. Nothing was left . . . her body had been burnt to ashes, and the only thing that would have indicated that a body had once been there was how the prayer beads she had always worn, and the small sea shell that father had given her that had lipstick in it. (Okay, this part I added because during the special Inu-Yasha episode of 'A Fateful Love Song Before we Met' shows Inu-Yasha giving Kikyo a sea shell that had lipstick in it, and it belonged to his mother. I haven't seen the episode personally, but I have read many episode guides to know it's true. But anyway, I just thought it would be nice to add that) Tears welled up in the small pups eyes, and he let out a choked sob, "Mama . . ."
He laid down where she had once laid, tears falling down his cheeks as the truth finally settled into his mind . . . his mother was now dead . . . his father was dead . . . his brother had abandoned him . . . and he was all alone. How long he laid there no one could really tell, the young boy did at one point stand up, and ran to the trees carrying his mothers ashes. At the very edge of the village, he made a grave for her, using the stones he found around him.
From that point on Inu-Yasha lived on his own, finding out by accident of his two attacks . . . Claws of Blood (I don't know how you say it in Japanese so I'll leave it like that for now) . . . Sankotesso . . . and he learned how to survive on his own. His hatred for humans grew each day as he was tortured and shunned by them, and so did his hatred for the demons as they tried to kill him. It wasn't until that fateful day that he heard a whisper in the winds of a jewel to make demons more powerful, and so he headed towards the village . . . .
(End of Flash Back)
Kagome's eyes slowly drooped as she rested her head against Miroku's shoulder, but they immediately snapped back open as she remembered the task at hand.
"I can see the village now!" cried Rin, looking up at her other companions.
"It's about time!" cried Miroku, gripping his staff a little tighter.
Kirara started to fly faster, knowing that her riding companions wanted to get there as fast as they could. Jaken had just woken up and had almost fallen off the fire cat and was now clinging to her tail screaming at her to stop, but stopping was the last thing on Kirara's mind as she flew and Rin ran faster.
(Inu-Yasha)
The rain poured down heavily from the sky, harder than it had been all month. It was dark outside, the thunderclouds covering up the stars, and the low rumble of the thunder would give anyone the creeps to go outside. The wind had started to pick up as well, almost blowing the curtains right off the hooks as Kagome tempted to keep the window closed. Her robes were very lose on her body since the giant swell in her stomach would not allow her to wear the clothes she used to. Shippo sat quietly on the large bed that she and Inu-Yasha shared, his eyes staring out the window.
"I'm scared Kagome . . ." whispered the small fox.
Kagome merely smiled and walked slowly to the bed, her ankles swollen and her body feeling exhausted, "Don't worry Shippo, I'm here,"
The fox nodded and he snuggled closer to Kagome for warmth. A loud bang at the door scared the both of them, and the loud angry footsteps that made there way upstairs caused Shippo's tail to poof out. As a crack of lighting came down, the bedroom door opened, causing Shippo to scream as a soaking Inu-Yasha entered the room.
"Shit I'm soaked," shivered Inu-Yasha. His black hair stuck to his face, the fire rat clothes soaked right through, his skin slightly pale, and his violet eyes gazed right on his mate.
Kagome attempted to stand up, but Inu-Yasha placed a hand on her shoulder, "You don't have to get up,"
"But you're soaked,"
"I can get my own clothes,"
Kagome just nodded and motioned for Shippo to leave them as Inu-Yasha went to his closet to get some dry clothes.
When Shippo was gone, Kagome slowly eased herself to lye down on the soft bed, "So . . . Miroku and Sango are okay?"
"They're fine, Miroku was having a hell of a time keeping the baby quite, and the thunder woke it up,"
Kagome just nodded and winced as the pain in her back returned. Putting his soaked clothes on the chair, Inu-Yasha crawled in beside his mate, "Are you okay?"
"My back is starting to hurt,"
Inu-Yasha nodded as his hands went to the small of her back, massaging the flesh with his skilled fingers. Kagome gave her approval with a moan as she snuggled deeper into the covers.
"Feel good,"
"hmmmm"
Inu-Yasha smiled as he massaged her back with one hand, while the other touched her abdomen, feeling her round belly, "Less than a month to go . . ."
Kagome nodded, her hand reaching down to clasp his, "Were finally going to have a baby . . ."
"Yes . . . and you will make a wonderful mother," whispered her mate, kissing her temple lightly.
Kagome smiled and was about to reply, but a bang down stairs caused them both to freeze. The crack of lightening, the roar of the thunder, and the pounding of the rain prevented Inu-Yasha from hearing anything.
"Damn these human senses . . ." he cursed, slowly getting out of bed, "Shippo! What the hell are you doing down there!"
Kagome sat up and attempted to get out of the bed.
"You stay there Kagome, I'll be right back,"
The girl simply nodded and watched as Inu-Yasha opened the door, but screamed as she saw someone standing there. With out his demon reflexes, Inu-Yasha was too slow to react as he was punched across the face and landed on the wooden floor. Four bandits came into the room, one holding a terrified fox by the tail. Two of the grabbed Inu-Yasha and pulled him up, but only to slam him against the wall to hold him back, the other easily restrained Kagome by grabbing her wrists.
"Kagome!" screamed Inu-Yasha trying to break free of their grasps, but his effort was useless.
The bandit holding Shippo walked slowly over towards Inu-Yasha, pulling a knife out of his belt, "Well . . . we certainly found a nice place to rob tonight eh boys?"
The three other bandits laughed, their breath fresh of sake. Inu-Yasha continued to struggle, wanting to get the bastard off his mate. Shippo was then slammed into the wall, as he cried out in pain. The bandit raised the knife, and before Inu-Yasha or Kagome could utter a word, the bandit brought the knife down, piercing right through the foxes throat. Shippo never said a word as his eyes became lifeless, and blood dripped one drop at a time from his mouth as he was stuck against the wall.
"YOU BASTARDS!" screamed Inu-Yasha, starting to use more force to release himself.
The bandit snickered, his dark eyes falling on the human Inu-Yasha, his lips curling into a smile. His hand formed into a fist and punched Inu-Yasha hard in the stomach, and the cracking of ribs could be heard through out the room. Kagome was screaming from her position on the bed as she tried to get her attacker off her. Inu-Yasha gave a rasp as the pain shocked through his body, causing his knees to shake and head to spin. The bandit just smiled and reached to grab the knife that held the dead fox up, and pulled it out of the wall. Shippo's body fell to the floor with a small thunk.
Inu-Yasha's eyes widened as the knife was slowly brought closer to him.
"Remove his shirt,"
The two other bandits immediately ripped of Inu-Yasha's shirt, throwing it to the side. Smiling, the bandit extended his arm, placing the blade on Inu-Yasha's shoulder and cutting it hard and deep. Inu-Yasha screamed out into the night, but the roar of thunder covered his voice, and so the torture began. Cuts all over his body meant for him to slowly bleed to death. Kagome was screaming the entire time, watching as blood was splattered all over the wall and on her mate. When the bandit stopped slashing he grabbed another knife from his belt and ordered the two other bandits to move away a little and hold his arms up. Smiling, the bandit rammed one knife into each of Inu-Yasha's arms pinning him to wall. Blood slowly dribbled from Inu-Yasha's mouth, his whole body covered in his own blood, and his vision becoming blurry from the blood loss. A small pool slowly started to gather at Inu-Yasha's feet as the blood slowly ran down his body and onto the floor. The bandit merely laughed, "Now . . . I think it's time to put an end to this torture,"
The bandit grabbed the sword by his side, and held it up to Inu-Yasha's throat, "I could kill you . . .yes I could . . . to ease your pain and suffering . . . but why not do something better . . ."
Inu-Yasha's eyes widened as the bandit slowly approached Kagome who was now being held down by the remaining bandits. He couldn't even utter a word as the bandit slowly raised the sword above his mate.
"Such a pretty girl . . . if you were not pregnant I would have taken you . . . raped you right in front of him over and over until he breathed his last breath . . . but since I can't give that to him . . . I have a better idea,"
The sword was turned in a downward striking position, right over Kagome. Inu-Yasha screamed as the sword came down, piercing through Kagome's stomach, all the way through her, and the dull thunk as the tip of the sword hit the floor. Kagome lay still on the bed, as the sheets and blankets slowly stained with crimson blood. The bandit smiled and grabbed the second sword at his side, taking a step to the side and raising the blade over Kagome's chest, only to thrust it down in the same fashion he had before. The girl gave a small cough as blood pooled in her mouth, her eyes on her mate.
Laughter echoed through out the room as the bandits left, leaving Inu-Yasha to watch his wife die before his eyes. Inu-Yasha just stared ahead with his blurry eyes, softly trying to whisper Kagome's name, but his voice did not come through. The faint smell of smoke hit his nostrils, as the house slowly became engulfed in flames. Flooding into the room the fire burnt everything in its path.
(End)
(Sesshoumaru)
The battle had lasted longer than he had expected, but the view of his castle brought comfort to the lord. The cat demons had once tried to invade the western lands, but the dog demon army had proven once again that they were stronger. Leaves rustled in the wind, causing the demon lords hair to blow in his face momentarily. The dew shimmered in the grass as the moons light slowly passed over it through the clouds. As Sesshoumaru got closer and closer to the castle, he deeply inhaled the familiar scents of his servants and the homecoming smell his castle seemed to give, making him feel at him home. The gates opened at his command as he walked down the stone path to the front door. Pushing the golden doors Sesshoumaru entered his castle. No one of course was there to greet him since the soldiers were supposed to return tomorrow, but he had wanted to get home early to see Rin. She was now the becoming age of sixteen, and perhaps she would give the lord some clue of how she really felt for him. The castle was quite dark, and not one single torch had been lit. Sesshoumaru headed towards the stairs to go check on Rin, but as he smelled the castle once again, he realized that she wasn't here. Stopping at the base of the stairs he closed his eyes and smelled the air around his grounds, and realized that she was outside, and he smelled a scent that he did not recognize. It was human . . . a male to be exact . . . however Sesshoumaru sighed, and knew that it was probably one of her friends from the village visiting. Walking back outside he headed towards the gardens where Rin's scent was coming from. Moving at a graceful pace, Sesshoumaru took the time to admire the different plants since it had been almost a year since he had taken a walk in his own garden. He came to a large bush of lilacs and could tell was on the other side. Deciding to surprise her, he waited for the wind to rustle the bushes so he could crawl inside and give her a quick surprise. Pulling one branch down he could see his lovely mate to be sitting on the stone bench. The lilacs had covered his scent, so she couldn't tell that he was there. As the wind blew again Sesshoumaru moved another branch, his feet on their toes to prepare his leap, but his whole body froze as an arm came and wrapped around Rin's shoulders. Moving the branch a little more, he could now see her sitting beside a young man. Sesshoumaru immediately recognized him as the head boy's son, Li, down at the nearest village. Rin still sat straight in her silver robes that showed off her soft curves as her hair hanged loosely down her back. Sesshoumaru stood still, not knowing if he wanted to be spotted.
"I hear that the war is almost over," said Li, staring up at the diamond like sky, his arm wrapping around Rin more tightly.
"Yes . . . it is almost over," sighed Rin, resting her head on the Li's shoulder.
"Do . . . do you miss him?
"Sesshoumaru?"
"Yes . . ."
"I miss him . . ."
Li nodded and held Rin more tighter, "Are you . . . are you still going to become his mate?"
Rin looked deep into Li's eyes, her golden ones shinning in the moonlight, "I . . . I'm not so sure now,"
Sesshoumaru turned his head slightly, wanting to hear more as fear slowly ebbed into his body.
"We have become closer this last year . . . don't you think so Rin?"
Rin merely nodded and looked back up at the full moon.
"Rin . . . I must admit my feelings for you . . ."
"Li . . . please . . ."
"I don't care whether you are a demon or not . . . I have fallen in love with you . . . I love how you care about others, I love the way you walk, how your hair gracefully moves, and the sparkle in your eyes. At the mere sight of you I fall to my knees,"
"Li . . ."
Li released Rin and got on his knees in front of her, his hands clasping hers, "Rin . . . please tell me how you feel . . . I will understand if you love Sesshoumaru . . . but please tell me whether I can ask you to be my wife, or if I should move in my life . . . it would break me if you chose him . . . but it is your heart . . . not mine,"
Sesshoumaru's eyes flashed red and he tried to control his breathing as anger started to build in him. How dare this mortal want to take his Rin away, she had already promised him that they would be together. Instead of killing the boy he would watch the mortals heart break as Rin declined his offer.
Rin stared down at Li, her face really showing no emotion, but her words were enough to explain how she was feeling, "Li . . . Sesshoumaru is . . . he is more like a father to me . . . he told me that he was in love with me . . . but I . . . I don't share the same feelings as him,"
Li's eyes lit up, while Sesshoumaru's darkened.
"The spell placed on me is to keep me a demon if I were to fall in love with Sesshoumaru, but . . . I will become human if I don't love him,"
Li stood up, his hands cupping Rin's cheek, "Rin . . . please say it . . . please say that you love me,"
Sesshoumaru watched with wide eyes, hoping that she would not even whisper those words.
"I . . . I love you Li . . . and I would be happy to be your wife,"
The whole world came crashing down on Sesshoumaru as Li gave a cry for joy and hugged Rin, lifting her off the stone bench and twirling her around. Already he could see the magic keeping her demon slowly start to fade. Li kissed Rin fully on the lips, his arms holding her close to him. Sesshoumaru knew he should leave, but for some reason he couldn't . . . he couldn't take his eyes off the one he had lost. Rin's slim arms wrapped around Li's neck as she gave a soft moan of approval from the kiss. Li slowly pulled Rin to the ground as he hovered over top of her, his hands wandering over her body as his lips continued to kiss hers. Sesshoumaru contained a growl as he watched the man's hands slip into Rin's robes, feeling her warm flesh with his fingers. Rin never told him to stop, but instead encouraged him as her own hands moved over his flesh. The lord of the western lands watched painfully as they touched each other with their hands and lips until finally he couldn't handle anymore and fled from the scene. The couple stopped by the sudden rustle of the bush, and what ever Rin had left of her demon nose, she could smell Sesshoumaru. Gasping she got up and left Li there shirtless as she ran after the young lord. Sesshoumaru could hear her running towards him, but he did not run faster to get away.
"Sesshoumaru!" cried Rin, finally catching up to him, standing in his way.
Sesshoumaru stared into her eyes and read her emotions. She was sorry . . . sorry that he had to find out the way he did, but her love for the boy was still in her eyes, and her face flushed from kissing him. The two said nothing as Sesshoumaru stepped around Rin and into the castle, leaving her there with her untied robes. Sesshoumaru walked slowly through the castle to his chamber, slamming the door behind him. The one thing he had been looking forward in life had now been taken away from him. He had wanted Rin to become his mate, to love her and give her his pups so that they could raise them together. Taking a seat on his bed, Sesshoumaru stared at the full moon shining through his window. He couldn't help the emotions running through him, since he had seen the only one he would ever love touched by another man. Sesshoumaru could feel the tears burning in his eyes, but he refused to let them fall . . . he was Sesshoumaru . . . Lord of the Western Lands . . .
A small knock at the door caused him to look up as Rin walked in, her robes still untied as her hands kept the material over her body.
"Sesshoumaru . . . please . . . hear me out,"
Sesshoumaru turned his head, not knowing if he could hide his emotions if he looked at her.
"I'm sorry . . . I'm sorry you had to see us like that . . . but what I said is true . . . I love you Sesshoumaru . . . but not the way you love me . . . I see you as my father . . . someone who has raised me,"
The lord of the western lands said nothing, his face still staring at the wall.
"I love him . . . Sesshoumaru I love Li . . . I don't want to be a demon anymore . . . I want to become mortal so I can be with him,"
Before Sesshoumaru could gain control over his emotions he grabbed Rin, pinning her to the bed as he hovered over her, and couldn't help himself as he kissed her. The longing he had felt for so long to kiss her ruby lips broke through. He could feel her squirming under him, not relaxed as she had been when Li was over top of her. His lips left hers and she tried to get away from him, pushing him off her as she tried to stand. His eyes got a slight glimpse of her naked body, making his desire grow more.
"No! I don't love you Sesshoumaru! I never will that way!" screamed Rin, tears running like rivers down her eyes.
It was then that Sesshoumaru realized what he had been about to do . . . to take the one he wanted most by force. Sesshoumaru fell to his knees, his eyes on the floor.
"Sesshoumaru?" asked Rin softly.
Sesshoumaru did not answer, instead he grabbed Tokijin at his hip, slowly raising it above his head and to his throat. The last thing he heard was Rin's scream.
(End)
They ran through the village, not caring if they were being stared at or yelled at, all they knew was that they had to find Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru. Rin used her nose to track down their scents to the edge of the village where a pile of rubble was covered in a thick cloud of fog.
"They're in there!" cried Rin, waiting for Kagome and Miroku to dismount from Kirara.
Jaken scrambled by Rin's side sniffing the air, "I smell something strange in there as well, some sort of plant,"
Kagome walked slowly towards the bridge, and was about to take a step on the wood, but was stopped by Rin.
"Don't! Look there," Rin pointed.
Kagome looked where Rin was pointing and saw the brown vines that covered the bridge, if Rin hadn't stopped her she would have stepped on it.
"I recognize this plant," hissed Miroku.
"What type is it?" asked Kagome.
"Remember the illusionary death plants that we were caught in when Kikyo was kidnapped by Naraku?"
At Kagome's nod Miroku continued, "This plant is almost the same, except it grows were restless souls dwell and cannot move on. Anyone who is touched by the plant is drawn into their pasts while the plant slowly wraps itself around you, and when you witness your worse fear, it digs deep into you, sucking the life from you,"
"So . . . Sesshoumaru and Inu-Yasha are in there?" asked Jaken.
Miroku turned to the villagers who had now gathered behind them, "Tell us! When did this fog begin to appear?"
No one stepped forward at first, but finally an older man did, "Almost three month's ago,"
Miroku turned his head back towards the mist, "Tell me something Kagome, how did Inu-Yasha's mother die?"
Kagome sighed, "She was burned alive in the house,"
Miroku nodded, his eyes darting back and forth over the land that was covered in mist, "Something has happened . . . if she has been at peace for all these years why now is her spirit unrested?"
The monk returned his gaze to the villagers, "Was there a grave made for Natasha?"
The villagers remainder silent, their eyes darting back and forth from one another.
"Answer him!" screamed Kagome, knowing that time was against them.
"No grave was supposed to be made for that bitch . . . however we discovered one across the river," answered the old man.
"And what exactly did you do to it?" asked Miroku.
"They destroyed it . . . it's obvious isn't it?" answered Rin, looking at the villagers guilty faces, "That is why Natasha's spirit has awoken . . . the grave that her own son made for her was destroyed, her ashes thrown into the river,"
Kagome stared back at the foggy area, "Is there anyway we can get in there?"
"There is . . . fire is one way to draw the plant back, however we could burn Inu-Yasha and anyone else trapped in there . . . Kagome are you able to use your bow and arrow?" asked Miroku.
"As long as I don't put much power behind it to hurt that baby then yes,"
"Good, we shall do that then . . . Hey You!" called Miroku, pointing to one of the villagers, "Give Kagome your bow and arrows,"
"Now just hold on one minute here! Who the hell are you people?" asked the old man.
Jaken and Rin were the first to step up, "I am Sesshoumaru's loyal servant,"
"I am Sesshoumaru's future mate,"
"And what about you two?"
Kagome didn't even turn around when she spoke, "I am Inu-Yasha's mate, this is Miroku . . . one of his friends,"
"That half breed has a mate?" cried the villagers at once.
Tiring of their stupidity, Miroku walked forward and grabbed the bow and arrows from the young villager and handed them to Kagome. They all walked to the edge of the bridge, "So, now what?" asked Kagome.
"Just aim the arrows at the ground and fire, as long as we walk along the path of the arrows, the vines won't touch us," informed Miroku, standing behind Kagome.
Kagome shot the first arrow at the beginning of the bridge, and the vines disappeared instantly. Rin followed close behind Miroku with Jaken on her back, and Kirara had reverted back to her smaller form to ride on Miroku's shoulder. When they made it all the way across the bridge, the fog had disappeared revealing what was inside. The vines were everywhere, and small cocoons like used with spiders were the evidence of the victims that had been ensnared. All hope of finding Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru alive seemed impossible at first, until a piece of silver hair caught Kagome's attention from two of the cocoons. The two demons were almost completely covered by the vines, but not entirely.
"They are witnessing their worst fears, Kagome we must get them down now!" cried Miroku.
Kagome nodded and aimed her arrow at the base of the vines that were keeping Inu-Yasha and Sessshoumaru up. Releasing her arrow, there was a blinding flash of pink light, causing everyone to shield their eyes. There was a loud bang and the light disappeared as Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru's eyes flashed open as they landed on the ground. Sesshoumaru had a cut on his throat, which was slowly healing, but Inu-Yasha seemed to have cuts everywhere, but they were slowly healing as well.
"Inu-Yasha!" screamed Kagome, running to her mate's side. Rin had done the same by running to Sesshoumaru.
"Ka . . .Kagome?" asked Inu-Yasha, rubbing his head.
The girl gave a nod before wrapping her arms tightly around her mate, tears slowly running down her cheeks.
"What happened?" asked Sesshoumaru, getting to his feet.
"I'll explain in a moment, but right now we need to get rid of these fines," said Miroku.
"I'll take care of that," said Inu-Yasha, grabbing the sword by his side. Everyone stood behind him so they weren't caught in the blast, "Kaze No Kizu!"
The scar of the wind incinerated the vines and the corpses that had been rotting in their grasp. Then nothing was left but crumbled statues and some piles burnt old wood. The fog disappeared and a small glow from the ground caught Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru's attention. The glow seemed to grow brighter as the outline of a woman lying down appeared, wearing colorful robes. Putting his sword away Inu-Yasha ran towards the spirit of his mother with Sesshoumaru at his heels. The others remained where they are, but watched the scene before them. Kneeling down, Inu-Yasha tried to keep his emotions in tact, "Mo . . .mother?" asked Inu-Yasha.
And so it was her, almost like a ghost with her see through form, but she looked the same as she did the day she died, lying where she had protected her son at the cost of her life, "My son," she whispered.
Inu-Yasha nodded, his hand reaching out to touch her, but it simply past through her.
"It's been so long . . . you've grown into a man . . . and you Sesshoumaru . . . look the same as ever . . ." whispered Natasha.
Sesshoumaru nodded, and opened his mouth to say something, but was cut off.
"Don't worry . . . I forgive you . . . you were angry at the death of your father . . . my mate . . . I don't hold any grudges,"
Sesshoumaru just stared and gave a quick nod, "Your spirit is free now,"
"Yes . . . I was angered by the villagers for desecrating my grave that my little boy had made for me . . . but now . . ."
"I'll make you a new grave mother . . . I'll make you one by mine and Kagome's home . . ." whispered Inu-Yasha.
"That . . . would be nice," sighed Natasha. Slowly her form started to disappear, "I must be leaving now . . . good bye my son . . . good bye Sesshoumaru,"
The two demons nodded and watched as Natasha slowly disappeared, and the only thing left was a small jar, containing her remaining ashes. Inu-Yasha picked up the jar, and placed it in his robes. Both demons stood, and approached the others who were waiting for them.
"Well shall we head home?" asked Miroku, looking back and forth between Inu-Yasha and Sesshoumaru.
"Home sounds good, however . . ." said Inu-Yasha.
"However what?" asked Kagome.
"I need to take some frustration out of me . . . and this village did send me and my brother into a death trap, not to mention they did destroy my mothers grave," sighed Inu-Yasha, his eyes on Kagome to see if she would see where this was going.
"I feel the same way," said Sesshoumaru.
"So you want to destroy the village is that it?" asked Kagome and Rin in unison.
"Not destroy it no! I would never allow that to happen in my lands," said Sesshoumaru, "Just a couple of the huts . . ."
Rin and Kagome sighed, " As long as you don't kill anyone I suppose that's alright,"
Inu-Yasha smiled and cracked his knuckles, following his brother across the bridge.
TBC . . . .
I am so so so so so sorry for the long update, but hell this chapter was so long, I mean come on, I also had tests to do, so give me a little credit here! I don't have much to say except review and tell me what you think!
Lynns