Chapter 36: Meeting of the Minds
"Well…that happened." Kagome said when Inuyasha was out of sight. Her shoulders visually sagged with relief now that the worst part of it was over. All she had to do now was introduce the rest of the group to the new Naraku.
"Yes. To be completely honest with you I excepted that to go a lot worse. It's almost too good to be true." Naraku replied.
"I don't think it really sank in yet. He might feel different about it later but he's going through his own issues. Oh! I have something to tell you!"
"What would that be, Kagome?"
"About Kikyo. She is alive again, like literally living."
The priestess launched into a condensed version of what all happened to Kikyo, making sure to keep it quick. They only had so much time before they were expected back at Kaede's.
"So what you're saying is that she is no longer undead, no longer a priestess, and no longer sharing your soul."
"In a nutshell. We barely found out yesterday when we got back to Edo cause that's when we ran into her."
"I would like to say that she deserved a lot worse than she got off with. She did run quite a few foul errands for my former self. Not to mention all that she put you through and the dark deeds she committed for her own gain. Then again I have hardly room to talk with my history."
"Yeah, I know. I don't know how to feel about her. I mean, sure she's not out to kill me anymore and I can care less about her being with Inuyasha. I just can't up and forgive her for all the hell she's put me through. Then again we aren't enemies anymore and she's not even a threat. I feel sorry for her, but that's about it. Pity is the best I can do for now."
Pulling the young woman into his arms Naraku held her close and kissed the crown of her head.
"It is more than she could expect of you and I assure you all your comrades would understand. Including the hanyo."
Looking up at him she kissed him under the chin to show him she appreciated his feedback.
"I wish we could talk more but I'm sure he's gonna tell everyone I'm on the way and with an escort. He's the only one I've told about us so they're all gonna be pretty shocked."
"Everyone but Sesshomaru you mean, dearest. He knows this scent. I may have changed but my scent has graciously stayed the same."
"Umm, there's something I should probably tell you that I didn't really get to disclose in the last dream we shared." Kagome said with a blush.
Raising a brow a lecherous grin spread over the hinotori's face. "Oh really now? I feel like I'd rather you wait to tell me and preferably when we are alone if it is about what I pray it is about."
"You're such a hentai…however you're not wrong." She said with a dark blush.
"I believe you meant to say 'we' are hentai's."
"Shut it!" The priestess laughed and hit him in embarrassment.
Laughing out loud Naraku took a hold of her hand and gave it a kiss before leading her back into Edo where the next phase of their plan was about to be set in motion.
A scowl decorated the face of Inuyasha, showing all that he passed on the road his irritation. It's not everyday you get to meet the asshole who somehow had a secret relationship with his best friend and managed to evade his keen senses. It was almost too strange to be true. How the hell did he manage to hide his scent on Kagome? Was that even a thing? It didn't sit right with him at all but his proverbial hands were tied. What could he even say? Hell he was having a relationship with Kikyo behind her back for a long time before she caught them.
His ears were swiveling atop his head when he reached Kaede's hut and all who knew him understood that he was not in the best of moods. Everyone there wondered at what had happened, but it was Shippo who decided to find out why.
"Inuyasha I thought you left to get Kagome. Did you piss her off already?" He asked knowing that it would be the main reason that she wouldn't be with him.
"Shut up runt. She's on her way." The upset hanyo replied without the usual bite he was known for.
Taking down the barrier that she'd placed earlier Kaede exited the small room once Kikyo had fallen back to sleep and at once felt the tense atmosphere that had befallen her company. She merely took a deep breath and began to gather spices to make a stew.
"I'll go accompany her. She went shopping so I know she'll appreciate the help…" the kitsune said as he started to rise only to be interrupted by Inuyasha.
"Oh she's got all the help she needs. That fucker better be the one carrying all her shit or else."
Confusion painted the faces of all those in the hut except Sesshomaru. He was the only one who picked up on the additional scent that cloaked the hanyo aside from the priestesses. It would be most interesting to finally meet its owner. The killing perfection assumed that the other demons in the room associated the unknown scent to the random villagers that inhabited the area. Fools.
"Uh, ok. Who's with her?" Shippo asked as he sat back down next to Rin.
"She'll tell you when they get here. Just fuckin' wait." He grumbled.
As soon as he'd finished everyone in the hut seemed to begin to pick up on a strong demonic aura entering their senses. Before anyone could say anything Inuyasha spoke up.
"Oi, don't get all paranoid. It's just Kagome an' her asshat. They're almost here."
The group didn't have to wonder about what was going on long because a few minutes later a decidedly nervous Kagome entered the hut.
"H-hi everyone."
"Hello Kagome. Shippo was just thinking about going to help you with your wares but Inuyasha said it wasn't necessary…?" Miroku said with a questioning smile.
"Uh, funny story actually…well, maybe not funny funny but more like funny ironic maybe, or maybe not…I mean why would it be ironic anyways or even funny for that matter…"she began to babble but was cut off by Inuyasha.
"Just bring that fucker inside K'gome they already know he's here!" Inuyasha said irritably.
"Fine! Fine…just, first I just want to say that he is our ally! I swear, and I'll answer any questions that you have after I introduce him." Kagome said with an exasperated sigh before leaning outside of the hut to grasp the hand of her company.
The second she pulled him inside the hut chaos erupted.
Immediately every member of the Inutachi rose to their feet ready to attack the new arrival. Kagome took a step in front of him defensively with her arms spread wide looking to an equally shocked Inuyasha in nervous confusion and even a little fear. The only ones who seemed to be neutral were Sesshomaru, Rin and Kaede who was beside herself with all of their behavior.
"Oi! What the fuck are you all doin'!" Inuyasha shouted.
"It's Naraku you dumbass!" Shouted Shippo with his kodachi's raised ready to strike.
"No it ain't ya dumb fuck! Cant ya smell?! Shit an' I thought I was the stupid one!"
That seemed to stall Shippo in his motions. He looked to the demon standing behind Kagome with his hand over the hilt of his weapon and gave him a real assessment. He took a deep breath. No. He smelt different. Now that he thought about it he looked different too. This was a full demon; a bird demon actually. He wasn't sure of the exact specie but knew it was some kind of bird. He looked back at Kagome and saw the panicked tears in her eyes and felt instant regret and shame. Then he looked at Sesshomaru and realized he was still seated as well as Rin who was also leveling him with a vicious glare. There is no way that Sesshomaru would ever be fooled by a disguised Naraku, so if he was relaxed then…then this wasn't really Naraku. And they were all being fucking stupid.
The Inutachi and Koga looked on as Shippo made his judgement and lowered his weapons. They rest lowered theirs slowly and considered all the same things that their kitsune companion did.
"I, damn, I'm sorry…I just…" Shippo began to say but was cut off by an angry Kagome.
"I told you I would explain! I told all of you that he is our ALLY! OUR ALLY! What the hell was all that about!" She shouted with her hands balled into fists.
Kagome wasn't just mad. No, she was furious.
"How could you! Inuyasha would never, EVER, allow me to walk hand in hand with a murderer and since he KNEW who I was with why would you all behave this way?! I trusted you all to behave like the loving group that I've been traveling with for years, not like a suspicious group of vipers!" The priestess would have kept going if the demon behind her hadn't of set his arms upon her shaking shoulders and his chin affectionately on her head.
"Keh, take 'er outside for a minute. Let me deal with them." Inuyasha said to Naraku.
Nodding his head at Inuyasha appreciatively the demon took Kagome just outside a short ways away.
With a sigh Inuyasha rubbed his face with his clawed hands. Kaede also shook her head in disappointment before leaving the hut. She gave Inuyasha an encouraging shoulder pat on her way out that gave him the patience to address the knuckleheads before him.
"I get it ya' know. Fucker does look like Naraku but he ain't him. K'gome already introduced me to 'em when I went ta go get her at the well. I thought the same thing too at first but Kagome's been through enough shit and deserved ta get the benefit of the doubt. So I heard all they had ta say and shit. Said Naraku tried to absorb him but didn't succeed. Then he went around usin' his face. An' before ya bring up the lord that contracted your tribe Sango he told me 'bout that too. I guess that the sick lords son had gone missin' and so Naraku killed off the staff that knew what the son looked like an' just showed up claimin' to be him. He killed the old man to take control. He said he knew 'bout it cause he's been followin' the fucker tryin to kill em. He didn't lie, and he don't smell nothing like Naraku. He was telling the truth. He's just some poor fucker with a vendetta no different than us." Inuyasha said.
Shaking his head he continued. "This is so fucked. She was nervous as all hell over me meetin' 'em but not you guys. She expects that kinda shit from me, but you? You all fucked up big time. Ya scared her. I mean hell I didn't expect you to be like that so ya know she didn't."
"I feel so terrible…of course she would never bring Naraku in here." Sango said with regret in her eyes.
Miroku brought her into his arms and placed a kiss to her temple.
"I'm sure we all feel that way now, my love. Well, most of us that is." he said regarding the demon lord who was watching the proceedings with an emotionless facade and a very visibly irritated Rin.
"This Rin knew that nothing was amiss because her Lord would have detected trickery from miles away. You all owe Lady Kagome an apology for your detestable behavior." Rin said with conviction to them all but was pointedly looking at Shippo.
"I'd never trust the word of mutt-face over there, but I shoulda known Kagome would never bring anyone around that has bad intentions." Koga said sheepishly rubbing the back of his neck.
"Go fuck yerself flea-bag…" Inuyasha said without any real venom, "…but ya know how Kagome is. She'll forgive ya. Just needs a few minutes ta get over it." He said before heading out. As he was stepping out of the hut he turned to look at them all. "I'll bring 'er back, but you fucks sure as hell make this shit up to her. She deserves better than this."
The world must truly be changing if the brash, vulgar, and immature hanyo had become the voice of reason. It was a grounding moment for everyone present, and collectively they all accepted their blame and promised to do whatever it took to make up for their slight against her.
Naraku lead Kagome outside the hut and then gathered her into his arms. Without a word of warning he spread out his wings and with a powerful beat he sent them up into the air and flew just into the tree line, far enough away that Sesshomaru wouldn't be able to pick up on their conversation. Setting them down softly he let himself lift her bridle style and sat down cross legged at the base of a tree.
"You know, love, that the way they reacted was a distinct possibility. They truly aren't at fault for they aren't wrong about their suspicions." Naraku said softly while twirling a piece of her hair.
"Its not that. I just thought that they'd trust me is all. " Kagome replied quietly.
"I don't believe that is the case. I think they trust you implicitly, however they greatly fear my former self to the point of irrationality."
"Yeah, and my mind agrees with you. It's my heart that hurts though, and it's harder to convince."
"Fret not, for I have a feeling that they feel more than a little foolish. Inuyasha…I can see that he truly does care deeply for you."
"Why would you say that?"
"He doesn't like me at all, neither does he trust me. Yet despite that he stepped in for you whilst you protected me. Any other male would have simply taken you away and let me handle my own against your group of warriors. He willingly defended you from your own mutual friends. Took your side. Yes, though he is an idiot of epic proportions, he does care for you my love."
"Yea, you're right."
"Fuck yea he's right! An' don't get used to hearin' that, asshole." Inuyasha said as he suddenly appeared before them. He caught the tail end of the conversation they were having and even though he hated being talked about it seemed to lessen the hurt coming from Kagome's aura.
He stood in front of them but didn't actually look in their direction and kept talking. "Explained why he looks like that bastard. They all feel like shit right now. Keh, well everyone but Kaede, Sesshomaru and Rin. They actually used their brains. I set the rest of 'em straight though and now they're ready to talk to ya."
"Oh I don't know Inu, I'm not ready…" she started, but was cut off by the hanyo.
"Na na na don't give me that bullshit. We both already know you're gonna forgive 'em so let's just do it now an' get it over with. We got shit to discuss with icicle dick and the flea bag about Naraku, and you're gonna start feelin' guilty the longer you wait to make shit right."
A deep chuckle sounded from Naraku's throat and he rose up taking Kagome with him. Setting her on her feet he spoke. "He is correct about that. You already feel terrible for feeling betrayed by them. It is best we move along. I also would like to speak to everyone about what I've had in mind in regards to dealing with Naraku."
"You guys make me sound like a pushover." Kagome said irritably.
"Ya are one, Kags." Inuyasha said as he grabbed her hand and pulled her into a hug. "But it's why we love you and why we were able to become a pack family. Your heart is forgiving an' its what keeps us goin'." Letting her go he turned, locked his fingers behind his head and started walking back to the hut. "Alright, enough of the mushy shit. Lets go Kagome. You too, fucker."
"Ah, the honor of being acknowledged by THE Inuyasha is truly invigorating. I shall hold this moment close so that it never leaves my heart." Naraku replied sarcastically and with a smile the way he'd always wanted to in the past.
"Kaen, don't take Inuyasha personally. He's got the worst attitude in this entire country and is likely he's the biggest asshole to boot." Kagome said grabbing Naraku's hand and leading them behind Inuyasha.
"Fuck that, Sesshomaru's the biggest asshole. No one's got anything on him." Inuyasha replied, hoping that when they did get back things would get set straight and they could figure out what they were gonna do next.
When the trio reached the hut Inuyasha went straight in but Kagome hesitated and looked back at Naraku.
"Maybe wait outside for a few minutes? I'll come and get you in a few."
"Whatever you wish, my Kagome." Naraku said and leaned against the outer wall of the hut.
Heaving a deep sigh the priestess entered the hut. Shippo was the first one to jump up and pull her into a hug.
"I'm so sorry mama, I didn't mean to scare you! Please don't be mad at me! I promise to never react that way again!"
It was almost impossible for her to stay mad at Shippo. No matter how big he grew he was still her little baby. Rolling her eyes at her own weakness she sighed deeply and hugged him back.
"I forgive you baby. I'm just disappointed in you. In all of you for behaving that way." She said giving him a kiss on the cheek that made him feel like a little kit again. Reminding him when he used to accidentally go too far with his tricks and she'd get mad at him. She always forgave him with a kiss to the cheek. He held her a little closer before letting her go.
"Yea, sorry 'bout that Kagome." Koga said from his spot on the floor. "I took one look at him and saw that bastard Naraku."
"We all did." Miroku said with Sango echoing his sentiment.
"No, only you all did. This Rin and her Lord knew that he was not a threat. So did Lady Kaede. Either way this One is sorry for the way her suitor behaved." Rin replied. Sesshomaru made to comment but did stare at Shippo, making the fox gulp.
"I should be more upset, but Kaen understands and I guess I kind of get it too. I really wanted you all to meet, and to tell you guys about him, but there was never really a right time."
Just like that the atmosphere of the room shifted back to one of forgiveness and acceptance. Of course these softer moments never lasted long because of a certain dog-eared hanyo.
"So you fuckers are all sorry, yea? Kagome, you forgive 'em? Ok good. Let's get this shit movin' along. Oi, birdie, ya can come in now!"
"Inuyasha don't be so rude!" Kagome said loudly and smacked the hanyo upside the head.
"Ow! Fucking stop hitting me woman!"
"Then stop being an ass!"
"I find no offense, beloved." Naraku said as he entered the hut with Kaede trailing behind him with a basket of mushrooms.
All eyes once again turned to him, only this time there was simply curiosity behind their stares.
Sending a glare to Inuyasha, Kagome grabbed the demons hand and pulled him close to her.
"Guys, this is Kaen. Kaen, this is Shippo my kit, Miroku the Monk, Sango the Demon Slayer, Koga the Prince of Wolves, Lady Rin and Lord Sesshomaru of the Western Lands. The hut belongs to Lady Kaede who's a priestess and her sister Kikyo who is presently resting in the back."
"A pleasure." Naraku said dipping his head towards the hut. "I truly hold no grudge. I stay in the shadows for that very reason. Naraku has poisoned this visage and everywhere I go suspicion follows. One of the many reasons I want to end him. I assume Inuyasha explained a little bit about this when we stepped out earlier."
"Before anything else, let's all sit down. There's a lot to talk about, and Inu said that Koga and Lord Sesshomaru had some things to share too." Kagome said leading Kaen by the hand to sit by the wall beside the doorway. Inuyasha and Shippo also took a seat and that seemed to be the cue for the inquisition to begin.
"So, Kaen, what kind of demon are you? You smell like a bird but not one I've ever smelt before." Shippo began.
"I am a hinotori youkai. We are notoriously rare, so I doubt you may ever encounter others like myself." Naraku replied.
"That is correct. I have known phoenix demons to exist, but even our tribe with all of their experience have never seen or battled one before." Sango said.
"Aye, I don't think there has been any since the time of Midoriko, and perhaps even earlier than that." Kaede replied intrigued.
"It is very interesting. I however am more interested in how you came to meet our little sister, Kaen." Miroku said politely asking what everyone wanted to know.
"Oh, I've known her for quite some time now." Naraku replied.
Kagome squeezed his hand and said, "I met Kaen during my captivities with Naraku and it's really how we got to know so much about one another. Of course I wish it had been a little more romantic but, well, life is what it is."
Naraku told the same story that he'd told Inuyasha earlier. Everyone listened avidly and Kagome gave some input when it seemed appropriate.
"So why now? If you've been involved with my mother for so long why are you just now coming forward?" Shippo asked.
"The most obvious of reasons was made clear when I walked through this hut for the first time." Naraku said very pointedly. Everyone had the grace to look ashamed at that. "Secondly, I have information about Naraku and a possible plan to take him out. Thirdly and most importantly, I am now making an official public claim upon Kagome. I intend to take her as my mate and wife so it is only proper that I make myself known to her pack."
A brief moment of silence ensued while everyone took in this important bit of information. It did come as quite a shock to meet him for the first time and then for him to make that bold of a statement. Truthfully everyone was surprised except Inuyasha who already knew and Sesshomaru who was irritated with the news.
Not that the Lord was planning on mating her. Far from it. He was just bothered because it did ruin his plans to make her his concubine. If she were unattached it would have been the easiest of offers, but it now seems as if she's attached and it makes what he wants complicated. Though he could have attempted to usurp the claim of this unknown youkai easily by killing him Sesshomaru wasn't so invested in her cunt to do it. Then again perhaps he didn't have to necessarily eliminate him. They'd shared in her pleasures before. He could still remember the smell of satisfaction from all the scents in that clearing so it was very obvious that the male didn't mind what they'd done at all.
'Perhaps we might make some sort of arrangement…' The killing perfection thought to himself while the others of the hut readied themselves for more answers.
"You plan to take her as both a mate and a wife?" Was the question that Koga decided to ask. He'd been silent up until this revelation merely studying this newcomer and questioning his true motives.
"Yes. I understand that she is human and as such there is a tradition in the manner of taking a mate." Naraku said while taking Kagome's hand in his and bringing it up to his lips in a soft kiss. "I will honor that tradition and any others that she may wish to observe."
"And you aren't at all interested in the fact that she is the Shikon Miko?" The wolf continued.
"She could be an incarnation of Naraku himself and I would still choose her. I care not for her title. Her heart is of far more importance to me. It accepted me, changed me for the better, and I refuse to live without her light." Naraku said while looking into Kagome's eyes.
"How about you Kagome? You haven't said anything since the mutt brought you back. Do you actually want to be with this guy? He's not forcing you is he?" Koga asked.
The priestess shook her head vigorously in the negative.
"No, he would never do that. Look, I know it's really sudden for you all but I truly do love him. I want to be with Kaen more than I've ever wanted anything else in the world. Please, will you accept us?" She asked everyone present.
"Tck. Don't be stupid Kags. You already know that we'd do anything for ya. I'll even put up with his feathery stench if its for you. Don't ya know that we want ya to be happy? Ain't that right fuckers?" Inuyasha said and regarded everyone else in the hut.
It was so rare to hear something like that coming from Inuyasha that no one spoke for a second. Then of course everyone made their acceptance known.
"Oh Kagome, how could we ever not accept you?" Sango said with a smile.
"Yea mama, I mean, we accepted you even when you were in love with someone like Inuyasha. How could we deny you now that you have someone that doesn't seem like an asshole?" Came the snarky remark from Shippo making everyone laugh and dispelling the last hints of awkwardness in the atmosphere.
"Yea, yea, fuck you guys. Now enough of this mushy bullshit. We got bigger fish to fry. Hey fleabag, what news did you have about Naraku?" Said Inuyasha.
"Watch your mouth Inu-baka or else…" Koga responded.
"Or else what? You'll scratch your asshole on the ground like the fleabag you are?" The hanyo responded rolling up his sleeves readying himself for a fight.
"Now, now gentlemen. Let's not get all riled up. We have important matters to discuss." Miroku interrupted with a nervous smile and placating hands.
"If the monk wasn't right then I'd show you who's stronger mutt-face." Koga said, ignoring the middle finger that Inuyasha was flashing at him. "I had a run in with Kagura. Looks like Naraku is tired of hiding. He's sent all his spawn out looking for the shards and is lookin' to lure all us into a fight. She made it seem like he's almost being forced to put this plan into action cause some unknown person is fucking with him. Or at least she doesn't seem to know."
"Kagura told ya all that?" Inuyasha asked dubiously.
"Kagura has always hated being an incarnation of Naraku, so it does seem very much like her to leak information that could lead to his death. Rin, you said that you and Lord Sesshomaru were also attacked?" Shippo said.
"I wouldn't call it attacked, more like I was targeted by Hakudoshi and Kanna. It did not work out in their favor however. My Lord is simply undetectable and as such they did not realize that he was watching them and waiting on them to make a move. Hakudoshi said that the end was near for us and that they'd soon hold all of the jewel shards and kill you all. Of course, both my Lord and I took exception to their threats and are now here to aid you all." Rin said.
"Keh, fuckin' morons did it on purpose I bet. They probably thought if they hurt Rin then Sesshomaru would loose his shit and run into battle." Inuyasha said.
"That is what it felt like to me. Although, for some reason Kanna didn't engage in battle and at first it kind of made no sense until my Lord figured it out and led us away." Rin continued.
"What was up with her?" Inuyasha asked.
"The female was pupped. This Sesshomaru has more honor than to do battle near a female in her condition." The western Lord spoke up. "I will repay Naraku for his insult."
The dark promise in his voice sent actual chills down everyones spine, reminding them that he is a true apex predator.
"What a bastard. Naraku doesn't give a shit about anyone but himself. I doubt he even thought twice about it." Inuyasha said. "Well, birdie, do you have something to add to all this?"
Naraku was actually surprised at the news that Kanna was expecting, but he couldn't exactly dwell on that right now. It looked like now was the time to put his plan to the test and see how much he could get them all to cooperate.
"Inuyasha…" Kagome trailed off menacingly.
"It is alright, love. Though Inuyasha I would appreciate it if you could use some more creativity when referring to me. Perhaps I could have Kagome bring a thesaurus from her time to help you improve the quality of your insults." He said with a smirk.
"Fuck, I was right about you being a smart-ass." Inuyasha replied with while everyone else snickered.
"To answer your question, I do have some information to add to this discussion. As I've told you all I have been aware of Naraku's movements and have been traveling in his steps for quite some time. His original plan had been to use Kikyo to obtain shards but she'd become more and more detached and less loyal to him and he has disregarded her entirely it seems.
"He then was plotting to capture a dark priestess and use her to find the remaining Shikon jewel shards. I ruined his shot at approaching her," by which he meant that he'd gotten distracted and ended up following Kagome into that cave, "and thus forced him into another ruined situation.
"His most recent plan was to take Kagome hostage and when I found out about this I went seeking her. Luckily we found each other…"he said trailing off and giving her a smirk. "I was happy to take her back to your camp. We were unfortunately captured after a while and taken into his manor. His intention was to lure you all by using her blood as bait. I however couldn't handle seeing the woman that I'd come to admire and love be found so broken, so I made a deal with Naraku. I told him I would give my power unto him if he let her go and allow myself to be absorbed."
"Thats an insane offer to make. He would have renegaded on it almost assuredly, but it was amazingly brave for you to make that sacrifice to save Kagome." Sango stated.
"How is it you know so much about the movements of the vile one?" Came the silky smooth voice of Sesshomaru.
"When he tried to absorb me and failed I became hyper aware of his location and I incidentally realized it was not reciprocal. Thus I was constantly aware of his movements and seeing as he chose this visage to take after I had to become somewhat of a ghost myself. I spent my time seeking ways to ruin him and succeeded somewhat but it always had a cost. Usually it was suffering in captivity, but even then he would say more than he needed to."
"Naraku has a big mouth and would always give away his plans. Arrogance has its takeaways." Kagome said smiling.
Naraku snickered because he knew that he was very arrogant and did indeed have a habit of posturing. It was amusing to hear her speak about him that way and knew she did it on purpose because of the little gleam in her eyes. Minx. He'd pay her back for that later but for now he continued on with his story.
"I knew Naraku would more than likely go back on his word, but told him that I would only give him what he wanted when I watched Kagome leave that place. He knew of my love for her and saw it as a weakness and realized that he'd be getting a good deal. He had also saw her soft eyes for me and I am positive he planned to use this against her in the future. Of course I had no real intention to give myself over to that darkness and when the time was right I did what only a phoenix can. I destroyed myself to be reborn anew. Oh he was furious. He thinks that I killed myself to escape his clutches, but forgets my nature. Fool. So now I can follow him without much risk and have been on his back ever since.
"He is frothing at the mouth at this point. He plans to draw you all into trap and dispose of you. I found the battlegrounds that he has already prepared to use and took stock of the things he's gathered. He will use a lot of paralytic potions along with miasma to weaken the humans and intends to use the Shikon to make himself a full demon. He's under the impression he'll become the strongest demon, above Lord Sesshomaru himself, should his wish be granted." Naraku finished.
"Heh! What a fuckin' idiot!" Inuyasha laughed incredulously.
"Hn, this Sesshomaru agrees. Fool indeed to think he could ever be close to my equal." Said the demon Lord.
Naraku of course did think those things back then but now is very much cured of that stupidity. He didn't know what actually ever made him think he was on par with the killing perfection. Oh was he an idiot indeed. Now as a full demon he definitely felt the pull of weariness while in Sesshomaru's proximity, like he instinctually knew he was in danger being this close to the Daiyoukai.
"I believe we also have something to add." Miroku said holding Sango's hand.
"Yes." The slayer nodded. "This morning when I was out gathering herbs Kirara began to behave strangely. She suddenly transformed into her battle form and scooped me into the air. I had no idea what had gotten into her but before I could figure out what was happening she rode us straight to my favorite meadow. Kohaku was there waiting for me. He didn't have long, but he told me what he could. Kaen is right about Naraku being obsessed with becoming the ultimate demon in Nippon. Naraku ranted about someone ruining his plans, which I can now only assume was Kaen, and forcing his hand. He is desperate." Sango finished.
"According to Kohaku the evil hanyo has been unraveling for a time now." Miroku said. "He began to question the loyalty to those loyal to him and give freedom to those who are apt to betray him. Kanna and Hakudoshi are mated and apparently he's been using Kanna to ensure his loyalty. He also said that just this morning Naraku ripped out Kohaku's shard from his neck and released him from the power of his will. Naraku said it was because he trusted him to obey, and because he already knew that the young man already had regained his self will and remained obedient to his whims regardless. He also told us that Naraku was desperate enough that he even gave Kagura back her heart and promised her freedom if she were to aid in his victory. They were all given tasks to complete before noon today when they would set out for the remaining jewel shards. That was all he could tell Sango before he had to leave."
Suddenly the Demon Lord looked sharply towards the door in a blur he was gone. Inuyasha was going to confusedly as what just happened but then he smelt it too.
"Miasma." Shippo and Rin said at the same time and everyone was outside the hut headed towards the source of the smell. They found it at the edge of a clearing where Lord Sesshomaru stood. It came in the form of a large earthworm demon that was thrashing around on the edge of Inuyasha's forest. It was monstrous and definitely a man eater but something about this was off. It looked as if it had lost its mind. It was banging its head against the trees like it was trying to destroy itself.
Sango remembered when Kirara did the same thing once when she was possessed by Menomaru's hench-women years ago.
"I think it may be possessed by something…" Sango said.
"Poor thing." Kagome said sensing that the creature was in utter agony. Feeling pity for the demon she did something she'd forgotten to tell the others about. A secret skill she'd been honing and planned to use against Naraku when the time came, but well, now there was no reason to keep it a secret. Drawing up her hands she created a bow and arrow out of pure reiki and sent out a single shot. An overwhelming sense of peace filled the area and the demon laid its large head down and let out a deep sigh of relief.
While everyone basically stared at her in awe and surprise she merely went over to the demon, laid her hands on its head, and quickly purified it. When it was gone there was a small vial with a barrier on it that appeared to have a scroll inside. She took it to the group of others and once they confirmed its where the smell of miasma was coming from she used her powers to purify the barrier and take out the scroll.
"It's from Naraku. It says if we want the Shikon jewel we will meet him in two days at high noon in the Valley of the Fallen." Kagome read.
"That is the battlefield I just finished telling you all about. Looks like you've received an official invitation." Naraku said.
"Forget that, what the fuck was that just now Kagome?! I've never seen ya do that b'fore!" Inuyasha blurted out.
"Yes Lady Kagome, I must say I am very impressed. Your power has definitely grown." Miroku praised.
"Uh, yea, I've been practicing a lot with Kaede and she's taught me that my reiki is very versatile. This is the first time I've done anything like that though." Kagome said blushing.
"Your power is only versatile because of the strength of your purity my dearest. Other priestesses wouldn't be able to do what you just did. Perhaps we can talk more about it later if you insist on being so embarrassed by your own strength." Naraku joked while grabbing her hands that were fiddling with one another.
"Fuck me I am tired of all this lovey-dovey bullshit already." Inuyasha griped. "Looks like we got two days to get to that place and kill the bastard once and for all."
"It would hardly take two full days to get there from here. At most it is a few hours walk from this village if we go through Inuyasha's forest. I doubt that any rouge demons would dare impede us from our destination." Naraku said.
"Let us return back to the elder's hut. It is not wise to converse out in the open like this." Rin said. "My Lord is the best tactician to have ever lived, and I am positive he has battle plans to discuss with us."
"Oh, so you think you're leadin' us into battle asshole?" Inuyasha shouted, only to realize that Sesshomaru was no where in sight. "Im gettin' real sick of his disappearing act." He grunted while heading back to Kaede's hut.
Everyone else followed suit and soon they were all once more in the small hut where Kaede was busy roasting a boar that Lord Sesshomaru caught on his way back. He looked as if he'd been there the entire time just waiting for them to return. Inuyasha just shook his head and muttered curses under his breath. While they waited for the food Sesshomaru laid out his orders for the group.
Naraku realized that he was indeed lucky because the plan that Sesshomaru had come up with was exactly like his, only on steroids. He felt suddenly inadequate. It took him a while to come up with his own strategy for the final battle and he relied heavily on luck. The demon Lord came up with this within moments and even had contingencies in place for contingencies! Regardless the match ups are what he'd desired in the first place- Sango vs Kohaku, Rin vs Kanna, Miroku and Shippo vs Hakudoshi and Entei, Koga vs Kagura, and Inuyasha, himself, Lord Sesshomaru and Kagome would take on the Naraku puppet and any other demons in the way.
It took convincing to allow Sango to participate in the battle due to her pregnancy. She had shown the Demon Lord the strength of her mothers armor that she'd be wearing, and even then he wanted to verify himself that was good enough. He took the Tetseiga from Inuyasha's waist and attempted to cleave it in half. Everyone froze in that moment and when it held its shape he nodded his head in approval. Inuyasha simply starred balking at the blatant new information that his sword no longer rejected his elder brother.
After that they all ate together in relative silence, except for Inuyasha who took a serving for himself and Kikyo and went into the little room. They all agreed to camp in Edo together for it would make little sense to split up when they'd be traveling soon. Sesshomaru was the first to rise, thank Kaede for her hospitality, and head out of the hut. He gave Rin permission to rest with her intended making them both happy, but only under the condition that they stay within the confines of the hut. Kagome handed out the things she had went and purchased that day in her time and tucked into her pocket the gift she had for Naraku.
"Um, Kaen and I are gonna camp by the well. We'll be back in the morning for breakfast." Kagome said with a blush and a death grip on her backpack. Before Shippo could get up to protest Kaede pulled his ear making him yelp.
"Ay child. Be gone now, and rest well. A pleasure to meet ye, Kaen. Please take care of Kagome for us. She is dear to us all."
"I shall always care for her, Priestess. You have my word." Naraku replied as he grabbed Kagome's hand and led them out.
"Ye all must stop coddling Kagome. She is a grown woman and is capable of making her own choices. I know ye have the best intentions for her but it seems her heart is finally set. Perhaps it is best ye try to get to know the demon that stole her heart from right under her." Kaede said to all those left in the hut.
"I agree with Lady Kaede. He seems alright. My father didn't sense anything malicious from him so I think that she will be fine." Said Rin as she fixed up the bedding Kagome gave her so that it was right next to Shippo's bedroll.
"I don't know. Sure I didn't get any bad vibes from him but I can't just outright trust that he is good enough for my mother. I'll support her regardless, but I think she could do better." Shippo said feeling defensive.
Sango chuckled amusedly before saying, "Oh Shippo, you're just jealous that Kagome won't be babying you anymore."
Shippo blushed bright red and everyone in the hut had a laugh.
"Fret not Shippo, I'm sure Kagome will still make time to get you sweets from her time." Miroku added mirthfully. "I do understand where you're coming from though. I also don't feel that anyone will every be good enough for her but that is because I feel like her elder brother. We all instinctively want to protect her because in many ways she is the centerpiece to our little family. She manages to hold us all together in one piece. Our dynamics may change but I am certain that she will still remain very much our center, even with this new addition."
"Aye, I agree. Now let's get some rest. Ye all will need it." Said Kaede as she put out the fire and prepared herself for some sleep. Its been a long few days for the elderly priestess and it seems like it would only get longer.
A/N: A HUGE THANKS TO ALL WHO ARE STILL FOLLOWING THIS STORY EVEN AFTER ALL THIS TIME! COMING UP NEXT...BACK TO THE SMUT ;P - MINDLESS MINA