Out of breath, and terrified beyond any means, she ran. After her father had disappeared, leaving her alone in the house for what seemed like torturous hours, she decided to search for him, but she should have known better than to leave the house without permission. The moment her feet touched the soil, she heard an unsettling moan drift to her ears, and she froze.
She knew they were behind her, blocking the path back to the house, and in an instant, she fled. The beat of her heart pounded erratically against her chest and her breath hitched in her throat. How far would her legs carry her to safety? In Ikana, there was no such thing as a safe haven. There was not a single place in the land that one could be called safe. Sure her house sat right in the middle of danger, but it alone was not enough to keep out the intruders. Ever since the strange seepage of blood poured from the cave above her house, the waterwheel stopped moving, which in turn silenced the music, "Farewell to Gibdos," that played to repel the evil spirits away from her home. Without the music, she and her father had been forced to board up all the windows, but even that proved unhelpful.
Afraid to look back, because she knew they were following, she tried to return to the house, but she knew those creatures were smarter than that. As she ascended the hill leading up to the dried well, a decayed hand sprung from the ground and caught her ankle in its vice-like grip, which in turn caused her to fall. As the body slowly submerged from the earth, she panicked and did her best to crawl away, her fingers clawing at the ground for support, but she found herself dragged backwards toward her inevitable doom. Looking back, she let out a piercing scream.
OOO
Finally caught up to the half demon, they found themselves in a grassy field, surrounded by the valley walls. Directly ahead of them sat an abandoned, weathered dock, which was perched before a large river; Shippo recognized it and shuddered in remembrance when a hand had tried to grab him once before.
A strange sense of De Ja Vu overcame Kagome, and she nervously rubbed her arms. "I've got goose bumps…" Why did this place seem familiar to her? She worriedly looked around. This was the place that thief had taken her, at least, it was somewhere in Ikana; she didn't know for sure and she hoped he wasn't around, but then again, he did have the Shikon Jewel. While they had traveled this far, she still couldn't sense its location.
"Don't you guys sense it?" The fairy asked; she sat atop Link's shoulder. "There's a thirst for blood in the air…" She felt the disturbance in her wings and she shuddered. Thankfully she didn't hear any whispers and it wasn't night either.
Sango exchanged a glance with Miroku, who in turn narrowed his eyes. This was the exact place the two found Kagome, bruised and unconscious with Link and Shippo. The person responsible apparently brought her to Ikana, yet wasn't seen in town ever since the incident. They decided to keep their eyes and ears alert, just in case they might cross paths, and if so, they would show no mercy. Unfortunately, they had no clue what this person looked like, but Kagome and Link knew and they were pretty sure Shippo and Kirara got a good look at the thief.
Inuyasha's ears twitched at Serena's words, 'Thirst for blood,', and he allowed his eyes to roam the area. He caught sight of the gushing waterfall ahead of him, though he knew from the scent that it wasn't water. "What the?!"
"What is it, Inuyasha?" Kagome asked. She watched as he walked toward the dock, his eyes peering down and then up toward the cliff. "What's wrong?" Curious, she ran after him.
"How the hell does this happen?" He asked.
Peering closer, Kagome gasped. "Is that blood?" That was impossible.
"It's blood alright…and it's coming from above."
While Sango inspected the river, Miroku pulled out the map and glanced at their location. "It seems like this is the river that leads to the Southern Swamp…" How unfortunate for both regions. It seemed Link had been correct that whatever it was that plagued Ikana more than likely affected the swamp lands. Whatever the cause of this strange occurrence, it did indeed derive in Ikana. They needed to pinpoint its origin and from there remedy the effect.
Kagome gasped. "How awful…without water, how can anyone survive?" In fact, how could anything survive? How long has the land been without water? How did it all occur? What caused this?
While the group silently conversed, Link took the time to inspect the area from his place of stand. He wondered if that thief was around or back in town. If their stay in Ikana proved longer than what was required, then he would make a note of checking around just in case.
Overhead, a swarm of crows gathered, crying out in their shrill screams, which took everyone's attention away from the river and to the towering cliff ahead.
"What's happening?" Shippo asked.
"Probably found a scrap of meat lying around," Inuyasha answered nonchalantly. Something wasn't right. Listening closely, he though he heard the distinct sounds of…a scream. "Something isn't right!" Without warning, he jumped onto the overhanging ledges which led to the top of the ravine, and he didn't stop.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome shouted with surprise. Something was most certainly not right. This land, the blood and the strange familiarity behind it was unnerving to her. She turned to the kit at her feet. "Shippo!"
Understanding, Shippo nodded and transformed. In his ball shaped form, he ascended in to the air with both Kagome and Link, climbing higher and higher until he and everyone else was able to discern the strange buildings directly in view. He made sure to keep low of the swarming crows' overhead, whose attention was directed straight ahead of them. He swallowed the lump in his throat.
Dilapidated buildings, of a lost civilization sat just above the gorge, directly before the group. The throng of crows circled a lone house with what appeared to be a giant phonograph upon the roof with a motionless waterwheel at the side.
After landing some feet behind Inuyasha, Kagome squinted, and looked pastthe stationary half demon, whose eyes stared in the same direction. Directly near the house, Kagome saw what looked to be a dozen people walking about, and a sigh of relief washed over her. "I see people over there," she exclaimed. Smiling, she hopped off Shippo, ignoring Link's startled expression, and she ran forward. "Hey!" She called out, hoping to gain their attention. Perhaps they'd get some answers for sure.
Before the priestess could run past, Inuyasha grabbed her. "Kagome stay back!"
"Huh?"
Holding her still, he glared. "Better look again…"
Baffled, she looked once more, and to her surprise, she saw what appeared to be mummified creatures roaming just outside of the small house, dragging their feet slowly upon the soil. Their agonizing moans filled the air and Kagome immediately felt a shiver down her spine. "W-what…are those?"
Surprised, Serena bobbed in front of Link's face frightfully. "Oh no, look!"
Their eyes found sight of a little girl, cowering beneath the narrow space between the house and the waterwheel, shaking with trepidation. On all sides of the house, the strange specters surrounded her.
The child covered her hands over her head and closed her tear filled eyes tightly. "Father! Help me!"
Drawing his bow and arrow from his back, Link immediately aimed for the closest approaching threat to the girl. "I don't think so." Thankfully, upon impact, the Gibdo turned its head toward the group and upon noticing more delectable meat, it approached them hungrily.
Another loud piercing scream filled the air, and Miroku immediately felt his entire body stiffen. Unable to move his hands or feet, he struggled. "What's happening?" His eyes caught sight of a nearing Gibdo. Where had it come from?
Freaked out, Serena hid within Link's satchel. "You guys can take care of this!"
"Don't get near them!" Link warned. "Once they lock their gaze on you, you're paralyzed." He drew another arrow and aimed for the Gibdo closing in on the little girl ahead. He had to get her out of there and fast.
Realizing that the monk was in danger, Sango threw her boomerang at the walking corpse. "Get away!" Her weapon easily split the monster in half and it fell to the ground, still moving unfortunately. After so, the curse that kept Miroku still easily wore off and he freely moved to a safer distance, while Sango quickly dispatched of the Gibdo for good.
Worriedly, the priestess watched in absolute horror as more closed in on the child. There was no way she could help without harming her. "I'm afraid that if I shoot them, I might hurt her!"
"I got this!" Brandishing his sword, Inuyasha charged forward, his gaze locked on three Gibdos attempting to swipe at the child. "Why don't you pick on someone your own size!"
Seeing this, Link shook his head and sighed. "Does he always jump in to battle so recklessly?" he questioned the priestess by his side.
In response, she weakly laughed. "Yeah…he just never learns."
Before one of the Gibdos could reach out and grab the girl, Inuyasha swung his sword and stabbed the creature in the back, before swinging it sideways out of the way. With his agility, he easily took down two more, and due to their slowness, he couldn't help but smirk. "Is that the best you've got?" As soon as the last one fell, he placed his blade over his shoulder and grinned at the child, who couldn't help but stare at him with confusion.
Narrowing his eyes, Link dropped his bow and arrows and ran toward the house, his breath hitched in his throat. He ignored Kagome's shout of protest and unsheathed his sword. How could anyone be so foolish?
Smiling, Inuyasha stared at the child. "Hey, you okay?" he asked. Up close, the child had short brown hair and straight bangs across her forehead. Freckles dotted her nose and cheeks and her eyes were blue, almost like Link's, only darker. Her attire was simply a pink dress with little too few designs embroidered in to the fabric and green leggings.
Unsure about this stranger, she nodded and wiped the tears from her eyes. Before she could question who this strange man was, a startled gasp escaped her and she fell back between the narrow space between her house and the waterwheel. "Watch out!" she cried.
A strangled moan reached his ears and Inuyasha immediately found himself paralyzed. His entire body felt numb and his heart pounded deafeningly in his ears. How was such a thing possible? With his back turned to his enemy, all he could do was stare in to the frightened eyes of the child in front of him. The smell of decay and graveyard soil felt overpowering to his senses, and he could subtly feel the horrid breath of the mummified figure upon his neck, closing in behind him.
As the decayed hand reached out for Inuyasha, Link intervened, and with his blade, he pierced his sharp edge through the neck of the Gibdo, easily putting a stop in its advancement. Once the blade penetrated the rotted flesh, he quickly withdrew and repeatedly slashed at its back. In seconds, it fell to its knees until it lay motionless upon the ground.
Regaining control of his body, Inuyasha turned and stared at the boy, whose blank stare bore back. Blinking, the half demon didn't know what to say. Should he thank the kid for saving him? Not knowing what to say, he merely narrowed his eyes. "Nice job, but I could have handled it."
Although the half demon refused to show any appreciation, Link merely turned his eyes to the Gibdos approaching. "One word of advice, Inuyasha," he began, and at this, Inuyasha sternly stared at the back of Link's head. "Never turn your back to a Gibdo…or any enemy for that matter." With that said he charged forward, and the moment he came within reasonable proximity, he sidestepped around the feral creature and slashed at its open back until fell. One after another, he repeated the action.
Inuyasha gritted his teeth. Who was Link to criticize him? With his fist shaking in fury, he composed himself and although a little peeved, he turned toward the child. Not bothering to care if she'd simply come out on her own, he reached out and grabbed her arm. Ignoring her resistance and complaints, he held her tightly under his arm and used his free hand to dispel more of the pests.
Kagome shrieked and aimed her arrow at a fast approaching Gibdo. Unfortunately her arrow missed and hit the side of the house. Gasping, she backed away, watching as the hands clawed at the soils to reach her. Half of its body had been sliced off and all that remained was its upper torso, head and arms; somehow, it still managed to chase after her.
Pushing Kagome behind him, Miroku raised his staff and the moment the Gibdo tried to bite his ankle, he hit it straight between the eyes. In seconds, a blast of his spiritual powers circulated through its body and easily disintegrated its flesh. From the foul stench, both he and Kagome covered their nose.
Finally, and what seemed like forever, the last Gibdo fell, and their remains lay on the ground unmoving. The birds overhead cried out in satisfactory before closing in on their pray, in which the group hurriedly distanced themselves.
Kagome wiped the perspiration from her brow and couldn't help but walk over to the child near Inuyasha's side. "Are you alright? You're not hurt, are you?" She bent down to examine her.
In response, the little girl shook her head and searched around the group anxiously. "Did you see an older man anywhere?" She asked all of a sudden.
Miroku blinked. "An older man you say?"
"My father!" She cried out with a troubled expression. "Did you see him?" she asked again. Although she was thankful for their help, she didn't have time to talk all day. Her father was out there somewhere and she needed to find him. If he'd only stay at home instead of wandering outside, then she wouldn't worry. He promised her he'd remain inside since it was too dangerous.
Sango sadly shook her head. "We haven't come across anyone since we came here."
Hearing this, the little girl frowned deeply, and her eyes watered.
Kagome agreed. "Don't worry, I'm sure he's nearby," she replied. When she noticed the child sniffle, she frowned. The little girl looked to be around eleven and from her appearance, she had few scratches and scrapes on her legs and arms. Taking some responsibility, the priestess placed her hands on her shoulder and turned her around to face the house. "Okay, let's go inside and I'll fix you up. We'll find your dad," she reassured.
While Shippo followed after his mother and the child, he couldn't help but look back at Link, who had suddenly ventured off. He wanted to see what he was up to, but he decided to head inside with the girls.
Looking at Sango, Miroku called Kirara over. He turned to Inuyasha. "We'll search around for her father. We won't be long."
"Sure…" replied the half demon. As he watched his two teammates depart in to the sky, he looked back at the boy who had decided to venture away from the house. What was he up to? Curious, he followed after.
OOO
Inside, Kagome settled the girl in to a chair at the table. To her right was an old-fashioned fireplace with a few logs burning to keep the small house warm. Strange patterns of green carpet took up most of the space on the stone flooring and Kagome felt a small draft from down the stairs to her left. Large orange and yellow pots sat to the side of the fireplace and small narrow opening, supposedly windows, were boarded up. She returned her eyes to her task, and that was to help heal her wounds. "My name is Kagome by the way," she introduced herself. "What's your name?" She asked as she placed her hand on the open wounds on her arms.
"Pamela…" Her eyes were downcast and a frown graced her lips. From Kagome's perspective, she looked pitiful and just a little pale. A sigh escaped her. "Thank you…for saving me…"
Kagome smiled. "It's a good thing we were nearby." Her hands ran along her bruised knees, and the power from her hands easily lifted the marks away. "There, all done."
Pamela inspected herself, but instead of seeming alarmed by the strange powers Kagome used on her injuries, she merely sighed again and dropped her shoulders.
Looking around the room, Kagome couldn't help but look back at the little girl, whose eyes were directed at the table; she was fidgeting her hands nervously, and Kagome placed a soothing hand on her shoulder. "Is it just you and your father living here?"
Pamela nodded.
It seemed as if that was the only answer she'd receive. This led her to question more. "Where are the others?" Upon the child's confused expression, she went on to clarify. "I mean, are there others living nearby?"
"There is one other person…but he maintains the graveyard a little away from here…but as for that, it's just me and my father," She answered. "It's always been that way."
At this, Kagome nodded. So there were three people living in Ikana. Who was the other person besides her and her father? "I see…I was wondering if you might tell me what's been happening. Has Ikana always been so desolate and dangerous?" Kagome wondered if she should be asking a little girl about such questions. To her relief, the child nodded.
Scrutinizing the priestess, she couldn't help but narrow her eyes questionably. "It's never been this dangerous…but it's always been barren," she explained. "Why did you all come out here?" Pamela rubbed her arms.
While he had been sitting around quietly, Shippo decided to join the discussion. "We're here for something important."
"Hm?" The little girl canted her head to the side. "What's that?"
Shippo wondered if he should say anything or not, but seeing as how Kagome nodded her approval, he went on to explain. He told her how they were on a journey in search of the four pendants, but he decided to leave out the part about the Termina's prophetic end.
Pamela only understood little of what he was saying, but in all honestly, she didn't really care. She didn't like that these strangers had come to her home and she really wanted nothing more than to have them leave. No offence, but the more people around, the more hungry those Gibdos will be. "Oh…I don't know anything about a pendant…my father might know…he knows more about this land than I do…"
"Where did he go anyway?" Shippo asked curiously.
She only shook her head. "Whenever anything strange happens, my father starts talking about research…and he does all kinds of crazy things…" she admitted. "He left hours ago and he normally doesn't take this long."
Kagome and Shippo shared a glance.
OOO
Climbing over the debris lying about the ground, Link managed to climb the hill above the house with no sweat. Although he knew Inuyasha was following, he continued on, his eyes settled on the cave straight ahead; that was where the river's heart originated. How ironic is seemed that Ikana bled its tears in to the waterway; in this way, the anguish seemed more profound and more depressing.
As soon as he stood before the entrance, where the river flowed, he removed his boots, tossing them near the sign that read, "Spring Cave," and pulled his pant legs up high before stepping in to the thick yet warm liquid, until it oozed up to his bare knees.
"What are you doing?" Came Inuyasha's voice from behind.
Link glanced over his shoulder. "Inside we may find answers as to why the river has converted in to such an unnatural cause," he explained. As he saw the half demon cross his arms, Link arched a brow. "Care to join me?"
Serena, who sat on the boy's shoulder, silently watched the half demon. She wondered what his problem was with her friend Link. "Well?"
"Hmpt. The sooner we get answers the better," With that said, Inuyasha trudged through the cave, not caring if his clothes were splattered and stained by the blood. Actually, he could care less; they were just clothes, and he wasn't one to get upset about appearance.
Serena wanted to roll her eyes. 'I really wish he'd get over himself.'
As the two moved forward, darkness clouded their vision. Inside, the smell of blood flooded their senses, most of which disturbed Inuyasha greatly because it was too strong.
He covered his nose with his sleeve. "This place reeks!"
Link silently agreed.
The light from outside was fairly faint, though the night seemed to approach fast. Thankfully, what little light they had, glimmered off the main spring situated before them. Tall crumbling stone pillars, which seemed to support the weight of the walls, surrounded the small spring. In the center of the pool, a small circular area of clear water created a rippling effect which in turn caused blood to seep mysteriously.
Perplexed, Link went further inside and peered over the ledge where the liquid still coated his legs. Peering closer, he noticed a round object situated at the bottom of the spring, and it seemed from there, the blood originated. "Inuyasha, do you see that? I think we've found our source…"
Serena also looked, but she remained on her partner's shoulder.
"Huh?" Inuyasha regarded it closely, and he scratched his head. "Well, if that's all it is, then all we have to do it take it out, right?" Even though he did ask a question, Inuyasha wasn't really expecting an answer; instead, he simply dropped himself down in to the neck high seepage and reached for the small reddish orb.
"Inuyasha, wait!"
Serena sighed. 'Idiot…'
Ignoring Link, his finger slightly grazed the smooth object, but he should have listened. He was shot back by an electrifying force and sent in to the wall behind the boy, cringing in pain. "What the hell?"
"Are you alright?" Link asked, and upon his glare, he assumed so. Looking back, Link understood. Inuyasha had been shot back because it seemed as if a barrier had been placed around the object.
"What was that?" Inuyasha asked, while picking himself off the ground.
"A barrier…someone's placed it here, for what purpose, I'm not sure," was Link's reply. He turned to Inuyasha. "Do you suppose either Kagome or Miroku might be able to dispel of it?"
Inuyasha crossed his arms. If he had his father's fang, then he could have easily been the one to dispel of the barrier. "Probably." He wasn't too sure about Kagome dispelling barriers, but she has from time to time been able to pass through them without any problem, so then maybe she could.
Link understood. "Then we will wait for Sango and Miroku to return."
"So…that orb is the cause for everything plaguing Ikana?" The fairy asked.
Link stared at the ripples. "I believe there's more behind Ikana's history than just the orb and the river itself," he explained. The valley held secrets, and they were probably buried with time. The ruins situated around the land proved that their used to be a civilization long ago.
From the Great Fairy's Prophecy, Link remembered her revealing a small portion of the past and how Ikana had worshipped the wrong deities and had brought terror upon the Nimterans. However, was Ikana at fault entirely? Had there been an ounce of goodness in the Ikanaian's hearts back then? Although he knew there was much unsaid in her story, he knew there were answers etched in the very soil he walked upon.
Perhaps, long ago, the land held vegetation, but now there was nothing. Why did the dead crawl about? Why did they want to drag others down to their death? He thought that was why Pamela's father was always researching; he wanted answers for many things, including the Gibdo attacks. Finding those answers wasn't easy, and through all the feats Link endured those past years while journeying through the forsaken land, he found very few.
With that said, Inuyasha turned his back to the youth, but before he exited, he looked back. The reason wasn't because he was still upset with Link, but because he noticed something quite different about him since their arrival in to the barren land; Link's eyes took on a look of loss…and as Inuyasha scrutinized him further, he couldn't help but perceive his indifference for sadness. From the beginning he seemed like an annoyance, as if he didn't care about him and his friends, but as of late, he wasn't as troublesome nor as ignorant as he first thought. In fact, he got along well, he supposed, with Kagome and Shippo, even if he decided to join in on their conversations from time to time. Link never slacked during their journey, and he pulled his weight equally among his companions. The only thing Inuyasha couldn't understand was the distance Link placed between himself and the others.
Tired of looking, Inuyasha continued on his way, his thoughts mainly focused on the barrier and that ever-present solemnity shadowed over Link.
OOO
As the sun descended, the sky took on an eerie mixture of red, darkened by the approaching veil of night. The eclipse of the scarlet full moon with the black crescent perfectly center, remained ominously overhead. Crows filled the branches of decrepit trees, where small lanterns were hung limply by the branches to light the path toward a small hut situated behind a massive wooden gate which separated itself away from tombstones below.
Walking down the trail to the graveyard with a shovel over his shoulder, the grave keeper stared up in to the sky and sadly shook his head. He'd been living alone, away from the outside world since he was just a child. Long ago, he remembered living in town with his mother, but because of his deformed face and oddly distorted built, he had to leave. Children pick on him, threw rocks at him and the adults tormented his mother. To protect him, she left town and made a home deep in the canyon, where she knew they'd be safe.
Standing before the grave of his deceased mother, he placed a single dried flower upon the dirt. A small tear trickled down his cheek and he wept. Silently, he wondered how long he would continue guarding the cemetery. From what he remembered, there were just two others living about a mile away in a small cottage, and wasn't sure if they planned to move out soon or not. It took all he had to simply keep the ghosts away from him; every day, before dark, he locked himself inside his small house, feigning he wasn't home; it was enough, and by doing so, the ghosts never bothered him.
As he wiped his eyes, he noticed a shadow loom overhead, and puzzled, he glanced up. Immediately his eyes widened and he fell back with alarm. "Stay away!" He cried out and covered his arms over his face, but no harm came to him, and hesitantly, he looked. A giant saber tooth stood before him, its large red eyes staring at him with a tilt of its head. On its back, it carried two young passengers, a man and a woman. He had never seen the likes in all his life.
"Excuse us, but by chance are you the father of a little girl?" Miroku asked. Although it was dark, he took notice of the older man's appearance, but he said nothing. He seemed old and exhausted. There was no hair to call his own upon his head and one of his eyes was partially shut. Miroku couldn't help but notice how his body seemed to lean forward and how his upper back seemed to extend outward in a distorted manner. Despite that, his eyes seemed friendly. The clothes he wore were dirtied and ragged.
The older man merely shook his head. "No…not I. I have no children."
A saddened look crossed over the monk's face. So there were others that lived in Ikana? "I see…" He looked to Sango. "We've searched all over."
She nodded. "I guess we should head back. Who knows, maybe we might cross paths with him."
Miroku agreed and turned back to the older man. "I did not realize others lived out here." His eyes roamed the numerous tomb stones. " Normally he was used to seeing wooden crosses staked in to the graves but it wasn't uncommon. "Pardon us for intruding, but are you the caretaker of this cemetery?"
Unsure of whether or not to approach them, he nodded. "Yes. My name is Dampe. All the graves here belong to the members of the King of Ikana castle, a place that lies beyond the mountains," he explained.
Hearing this bit of news, Miroku's eyes widened. "The members of the King of Ikana Castle?" There was a castle? A royal family dwelled in the land?
Dampe nodded. "Yes, but they've all died a millennium ago. Since I arrived here, I took up the duty as grave keeper. You can find the ruins of the castle and the settlement up ahead, near the house."
"I see…" This was fascinating news and probably quite important.
Sango felt a sense of pity wash over her, and she couldn't help but look at the old man. "You've kept the graves in good condition, for many years."
Dampe looked back and frowned. "So I have…I might not have known the people back then, but I heard from the last caretaker that there were some that were kind." He turned back toward them. "You'd best take shelter for the night. The ghosts appear when the sun goes down."
Miroku smiled. "Thank you. Please be careful on your way home." With that said, the giant saber tooth took to the skies, leaving a surprised grave keeper to stare back until they disappeared from view.
Once they were gone, Dampe looked off in to the horizon. In all the years he spent living, secluded from others, he never thought anyone would treat him so kindly. The two didn't seem frightened of his appearance and they seemed concerned for his well-being also. Perhaps the world changed since then. Maybe it was time to leave Ikana for good. Turning back to his mother's grave, he frowned. How could he abandon the one person that ever truly loved him?
Picking up his discarded shovel, the old man closed the gate that separated him from the graveyard below his home and after locking it; he hurried inside his small shack and locked the door. Tomorrow would be another day.
OOO
Walking through the small blades of grass, a lean figure stood in the gorge, peering up at the towering cliff where the lone house sat hidden from view. Focused on his task, he stepped onto the weathered dock and peered in to the dark stream where bones laid just beneath its surface, some carried downstream.
"Strange…very peculiar…" He muttered before placing his finger in to the warm, running liquid. How was such a phenomenon possible? A ripple effect brought him out of his musings and he leaned in further to inspect to the strange oddity. "Strange, how can there be life?" He was certain all the fish that once thrived in the river were dead and carried downstream by now. Narrowing his gaze, he lowered himself closer when he thought he noticed movement from below. Something was alive beneath the surface, but what?
Before he could pull away, a hand shot up in front of his face and grasped his necktie. It had happened so suddenly that he was unable to react. When it happened, he was dragged under and the foul stench of blood covered him.
OOO
Exiting the cave, Link bent down and grabbed his abandoned boots, but he did not put them on. Instead, he silently took his time returning to the house. With his thoughts lingering on all that's happened, his eyes watched as Inuyasha waited for him.
Jumping from the cliff, Inuyasha stood just outside the home. He was about to turn around a call for Link to hurry but before he could, he observed something from the corner of his eye move just a few distance away. "What was that?" His ears twitched and he sniffed the air, but all he smelled was blood. Hopefully it wasn't another walking corpse. As he stood there watching, he suddenly heard a twig snap beside him.
Link turned his eyes in the location Inuyasha stared off. A lone tree sat a little a ways from where they stood, but nothing seemed out of the norm. Puzzled, his eyes returned to the half demon, who was calmly staring back. "Something wrong?"
"No," was Inuyasha's only reply before he stepped onto the porch and in to the house without a word.
"You know Link, I don't know why you put up with him," Serena complained. "He needs to work on his attitude."
While he did agree with Serena's comment, Link's eyes returned to the tree ahead. What had Inuyasha seen?
"Link?"
He turned away. "I'll be right back," With that said, he dropped his boots and stepped away from the house and toward the tree in his line of vision. "Go on inside Serena."
Baffled, the fairy did as was asked. Since the door was locked, she entered in to one of the boarded up windows, where there was just enough space to squeeze inside.
His blue eyes narrowed when he noticed movement behind the lone shrub ahead. Someone was behind there, and whoever it was, they'd been watching them, but for how long, he did not know. "Who's there?" he called out, but all he received was silence. "Show yourself!"
Just as he said that, a figure, shrouded by night, revealed himself and took off running past the house with incredible speed.
Believing his assumptions were correct, Link chased after. He had a suspicion of who the watcher was, and he wouldn't allow him to get away, at least not in one piece.
OOO
After flying past the old structured ruins, Sango and Miroku circled around the area, but they were unable to locate the father of the young child back at the house. If he was around, then they might have overlooked him.
"Well, I don't see him…"
Miroku's eyes remained below him. Just then, something caught his attention, and he nudged Sango's shoulder. "Do you see that?"
"Hm?" From Miroku's outstretched hand, he pointed toward a lofty structure, with large pillars stretched high above the massive wall blocking off the path. Beyond those pillars was an enormous building of some sort, and although it looked battered and decrepit, it seemed during its time, quite important. "You don't suppose that's the castle Dampe spoke of, do you?"
"It could be…" was Miroku's reply. Though it was a little dark to see much of anything, it was impossible not to notice such massive remnants of an old civilization.
Petting Kirara's fur, Sango turned back to Miroku. "Maybe we should head back. It's starting to get dark."
Something in the shadows beneath the falls of the river caught the monk's attention, and curious, he pointed his staff in the direction of the gorge directly below them. "I think I see something down there."
Sango followed his stare. The moment she did, she gasped. Directly below them, a young man appeared to be drowning, but on closer inspection, dozens of hands were pulling him under, swiping at him and he could not catch onto anything to pull himself out. "Kirara! Take us down!"
As the saber tooth did as what was instructed, Sango readied her boomerang. As soon as they arrived at the scene, Miroku dispelled of some of the hands.
A strangled and painful gasp escaped the man, and he desperately tried to free himself from the hands choking and scratching him. The one latched onto his tie had yet to release its grip and he felt it tighten more, cutting off his circulation.
Thankfully Miroku managed to disarm more around him and the one causing the young man the most pain. He held his staff out. "Hurry!"
Trying his best, the young man, though seeing past the blurriness from the blood smeared on his face, waded toward the staff and reached out, but unfortunately, a hand latched onto his leg and immediately, he was pulled beneath the surface.
"He's been dragged under!" Sango yelled.
OOO
Sprinting after the culprit, Link, who was barefooted, managed to keep up. Shadows danced through the night on the dry canyon walls and near the lone dried well in which Link passed during the chase.
A small pain shot through his foot and it felt as if he stepped on something quite jagged, yet that did not hinder his task; he kept up and as he closed in on the man, Link reached out and tackled him to the ground, holding him down as he fought against him.
After a few failed attempts on the thief's part to escape, Link punched him hard in the jaw, effectively ceasing the older man's efforts. "Sakon, how low you have fallen. Tell me who you're working under." At this point, Link had his sword drawn and his blade held against the thief's neck threateningly.
Despite Link's questioning, Sakon merely smirked. "Quite inquisitive, aren't we?" he asked, but that only served to fuel Link's anger. "What should it matter? Really now, why must you go and push me down? I'm the victim here."
Link narrowed his eyes. "The victim here is my friend!" He was referring the Kagome. "Why did you kidnap her? Are you the one responsible for all the kidnaps in Clock Town?"
Sakon mused. "I'm a thief whose sole purpose in life is to steal from others…what reason would I have to kidnap 'simple' girls? My profession lies with stealing money, not humans."
"You hurt her. You stole something important from her and you're to return it…"
At the mentioning of 'her,' Sakon licked his lips. Oh he didn't forget such a vixen, he came back home because he knew the group was venturing out in to the forbidden land. "Kagome, yes I remember her," he replied. "How could I forget such a fine maiden?"
Impatiently, Link clenched his teeth. "Answer me. Where is it?"
Sakon smirked. "Where is what?"
Link tightened his hold on his blade and pushed it closer against his neck where just the slightest touch could break his skin. "Don't play games. Where is the jewel you stole from her?" Link questioned.
A malevolent grin spread across the robber's face, and it was so terrifying, that it sent chills down Link's spine. Before Link could determine the thief's motives, he grasped the youth's hand, clutching the blade, and kicked him off his person in one swift movement. "You shouldn't underestimate a thief, my boy… "He replied. "Tell Kagome that I'm not finished yet…will you do that?"
Regaining his footing, Link glowered at Sakon. "You stay away from her!"
Sakon laughed. "The woman is a temptress…no matter who it is men are drawn to her…and it's no wonder either," he explained. "Her find curves and ample breasts-"
At this point Link charged at him, but Sakon was much quicker and sidestepped out of harm's way. "Damn you!" Although he stepped away, Link reacted with rage and nimbly turned and knocked him square in the face. "I'm warning you!"
From Sakon's place on the ground, blood trickled from his mouth and spit, though his eyes never left Link's. Standing up, he and Link silently stared at one another. Sakon wasn't stupid; he remembered Link very well; it was his fault that his plans were ruined years back. It didn't seem as if it would be easy to approach the girl, not with the kid around that is. Even though he didn't want to admit it, the boy had spunk and was stronger than what he let on. "If I were to give out information, then my life would abruptly end," he replied with a glare as he wiped at his mouth.
Link narrowed his eyes. "And wouldn't that be for the best?"
Sakon regarded Link for a moment, quickly scrutinizing his form. "Haven't you always wanted to die? I can see it in your eyes, that you've contemplated such actions…your eyes are the window to your soul, boy." Upon Link's glare, he chuckled. "What, am I wrong?" The thief didn't think so. "The past can be quite bothersome…and you're still so young too…shame."
Tightly gripping the hilt of his blade, Link's thoughts lingered slightly onto old memories, if only for a few seconds.
Sakon smirked. "I have unfinished business…" Sakon retrieved from his pocket a dark orb. "Be sure to tell that wench that I'll be seeing her soon…" With that said, and before Link could stop him, a dark veil surrounded the thief and in seconds he vanished.
Sheathing his sword, Link's eyes fell downcast, and he couldn't help but allow his thoughts to linger on that man's words. How had he known he wanted to die not long ago? Either way, Link would not allow Kagome to come to harm's way. A memory suddenly surfaced and he held his head with displeasure. The faint smile of a young girl with soft blonde locks came to mind, and he frowned. Link sighed. "It seems that I have yet another task at hand…" He frowned. For now, he would keep a close eye on the priestess, so that no harm would ever befall her.
A shadowy form flew over the house below the cliff in which he stood upon, and observing, Link caught sight of three individuals upon the saber tooth. He had a feeling he knew who the third person was. Without looking back to the spot in which Sakon vanished, Link made his way back to the house.
OOO
Inuyasha relaxed against the wall opposite of the door, while Kagome and Shippo were seated at the table with Pamela, who from time to time, nervously looked to the door expectantly. So far, Sango and Miroku had yet to show up and night was already upon them. Link had disappeared as well, and from Serena's silence, it didn't appear as if she'd talk.
"Hey don't worry, I'm sure your father is okay," Kagome consoled the child beside her.
Pamela sniffled and clenched her small hands. What was taking so long? By now her father should have returned; it was unlike him to stay out so long. Peering at her guests, she couldn't help but notice their strange attire and foreign accents. Who were these people?
"Oh come on!" The fairy bobbled around the room. "Cheer up. Sheesh, you all look miserable!"
Kagome nodded. "Well..." She didn't know what to say. The priestess felt bad for the little girl, but she couldn't help but worry about her companions. Hopefully they were alright.
Serena fluttered over to Pamela and sat upon her head. "Hey, your father is a strong man, isn't he?"
Pamela sniffled and wiped at her eyes.
"I'm sure he can handle himself and—"
"You don't understand!" Pamela shouted. Both her hands were shaking and she glared at Inuyasha and Kagome. "None of you! Why are you here? Who are you?" She questioned. Why wouldn't they leave her alone?
At this point Inuyasha was seething. "What the hell is your problem kid? Miroku and Sango are out there searching for your father! So quit whining! You're acting as if he's gone for good!"
"Inuyasha!"
Shippo pouted. There was no reason to yell at the girl. Her dad was missing and he could understand her impatience and fear. His emerald eyes glowered at Inuyasha. "Now you've made her cry!" Couldn't he show some sentiment?
Pamela laid her head upon the tablecloth and covered her face with her arms. The tears fell continuously, and she couldn't stop them. She was afraid of being alone. What would she do without her father? He was all she had left.
Suddenly, the door sprung open, and the smell of blood assaulted Inuyasha's nose terribly, so much, that he readied his blade. Standing in the entrance were three figures and one small feline. One individual, however, was completely drenched in blood that it was nearly impossible to discern his appearance.
"Pamela!" A male voice called out, and immediately the little girl pulled her head up from the table.
Jumping out of the chair, the child ran to the older man and threw her arms around him. "Father!" she cried.
Patting her head softly, he couldn't help but smile at the girl. "Pamela, thank goodness you're okay. I'm sorry I worried you."
"What happened to you? Why are you covered in blood? Are you hurt?" The child questioned as she pulled away and examined him. She noticed he was clutching his hand and she gasped. "You're hurt!"
"I'm fine," he reassured her. "Just a scratch." Moving away, though a little sluggish, he took hold of the railing near the stairs and he looked back at his guests and his saviors. "Please make yourselves at home. I'm going to wash up. Pamela, make our guests some tea." Before he could take a step down the stairway, Kirara, whose fur was coated with the same gore, followed after him, her nose picking up the faint smell of water. "Ah yes, you'd like cleaned up as well. Come along then."
As the father descended the stairs, Link silently arrived through the entrance and closed the door before settling himself near the table where Kagome and Inuyasha stood. He noticed the curious look Shippo and Inuyasha sent him, but he didn't say a word.
Still somewhat infuriated and a little relieved, the child went about her task and left the strangers to their own devices. At least her father was back home and away from danger. As she pulled out the cups and the kettle, she walked over to the keg next to some buckets and filled the kettle with what clean water they had left. After that, she placed some dried leaves in to the pot and hung it over the fire.
Kagome immediately approached the slayer and the monk, who only had minimal damage done to their attire. "Are you guys alright? What happened?" Because the little girl was busy inspecting the tea, she made sure to keep her voice at a whisper.
Sango leaned in. "We found him down in the ravine," she explained. "Dozens of hands tried to drown him, but Kirara managed to jump in after him."
"But that's not all," replied the monk. "While we were searching, we came upon another person, who spoke of a castle not far from here. Remember the ruins we saw before arriving?"
Kagome awed at this information. "So that's what it was…"
Miroku nodded. "I have a feeling that perhaps what we're searching for lies inside the monument."
"You sure about that Miroku?" The half demon questioned. "What makes you so sure it's there?"
Serena perked up at this. "You could always ask the Great Fairy living around here."
At the mentioning of the Great Fairy, Kagome smiled. "That's right. I remember her saying she had sisters living in the four regions of Termina. Maybe she'll know?" The priestess mused about the enchantress's whereabouts. Right now it was a little late to go out in search of her, but then again, they were in a hurry to save the land from perishing. A thought came to the girl and she turned the half demon. "I've been meaning to ask you something. Why are yours and Link's legs coated with blood?"
Before Inuyasha could say anything, Pamela returned with a tray in hand. She placed the steaming cups of tea, with just a hint of honey, onto the table and apologetically stared at them. "I'm sorry for getting upset earlier. Please have a seat."
Resting her boomerang against the wall, Sango took a seat across from the child with Miroku to her left. Kagome sat down with Shippo seated upon her lab and as for Inuyasha and Link; they remained standing, leaning against the wall silently.
"How is it you have clean water when the river is contaminated?" Kagome questioned.
Looking up from her cup, the little girl frowned. "Actually there's not much water left. This was our water before the river changed," she explained. Right now, the barrel was nearing its last few cups, and she wasn't about to have her father go out in search for more. Pamela knew she was acting selfish, but she loved her father and remaining at home in his absence displeased her.
"I see…" Kagome took a sip of the warm liquid, mingled with the sweetness of the honey.
After a few minutes of silence, the man whom Sango, Miroku and Kirara had rescued reappeared above the stairs, followed by a clean feline. He was dressed in a clean white lab coat, and underneath he wore a striped green and black shirt tucked within his green fitted pants. The style of his red hair was combed up from his forehead in to a mound, and without that blood on him, he looked more presentable and clean.
"I would like to thank you for saving me," He did not take a seat, but rather stood at the head of the table, with his daughter at his side instantly.
"Father…your hand…" Pamela stared at the bandages covering his right hand. She hadn't thought it was so serious.
In response to her worry, he shook his head and held his hand behind his back out of view. "It's quite alright. I assure you it was only a slight scratch." Turning to his guests, he smiled politely. In all the years he spent living in the wasteland with his daughter, he never heard tell of strangers just passing through, therefore, he had an assumption that they were here for something other than sightseeing. "Excuse me for asking, but are you here to research Ikana's waterway? Or perhaps explore the ancient ruins buried in this land?" The young man asked.
"As a matter of fact, we are," Was Miroku's reply. "My name is Miroku. I hope you can forgive our intrusion, but upon our arrival, we noticed you've been troubled by some lingering spirits. How long has this been going on, if you don't mind?"
Taking a seat, he rested his elbows on the tabletop. "For a long time, since our coming in to this land," he explained. "Forgive me, but I have forgotten my manners. My name is Nathaniel and this is my daughter Pamela."
"Why is it that you and your daughter live so far from town?" Sango asked. While it seemed quite peculiar that they'd want such a home in the middle of nowhere, she thought it was unsafe, especially for a child.
Nathaniel took a sip of his tea before setting it down gently. "It was all for research. I've had this fascination with the supernatural all my life, and it was my fault for dragging my family in to this wretched place," he explained.
The priestess pondered to herself. "You mentioned family…then where is your wife?"
A brief sadness passed over both father and daughter, but it was Nathaniel who spoke up. "She passed away some years ago, from a mysterious illness. You see, we used to live in Clock Town, but one day, she suddenly caught sick. The doctor wouldn't treat her, no matter how much I offered up. One day, I heard rumors of a plant that grew in these canyons that could possibly cure any illness, so I decided to turn my research to Ikana," he looked at his daughter, whose eyes were sadly staring at the table, and he sighed. "I brought my family here and I searched for this plant, but I never found it…We've remained here ever since, and my daughter has been faithful up until the end. I know she is troubled here."
"Father I'm not!"
A small smile crossed his face and he patted her head. "It's gotten too dangerous these past years, and I'm reluctant to leave her home by herself while I'm out."
Serena piped in at this. "Then why are you still here?"
"After my wife's passing, I took an interest in this land," he explained. "There's so much knowledge buried in these soils, and when I discovered that there used to be life, my interest only grew…"
A noise from outside startled the gang and what followed after were harsh rapping's on the house. Moans drifted through the open spaces in the windows and frightful, Pamela cowered behind her father who held her close.
Nathaniel raised himself up from his chair and hesitantly stared at the door. "Will they not rest?"
Even Shippo clung onto the chair for dear life, his emerald eyes darting to the door and then to the boarded windows. "What's happening?"
"They're trying to get in," Sango replied.
Inuyasha was just about to unsheathe his sword and go out to take care of the nasty vermin, but he decided to stay put, only because he might put the family in danger if he were to open that door.
Removing himself from the table, Miroku searched inside his sleeves and pulled out two sutras before pressing them to the wooden door. He lowered his head in prayer while everyone else waited.
The moans eventually died down, and it was assumed that the Gibdos returned underground for the time being. Everyone sighed in relief, and the father took a seat in the chair, clutching his hand with a pained expression.
Pamela who noticed her father's discomfort, grew worried. "Does it hurt?" This didn't look good at all, and she knew it had to be more than just a slight scratch.
Although his hand throbbed, he smiled nonetheless. "I'm fine. Pamela, would you go fetch some vegetables. I'm sure our guests would like something to eat." During his outing, he realized that even he had forgotten to cook dinner for him and his daughter.
Nodding anxiously, she rushed down the stairs, leaving her father and the group alone in silence.
"Would you like for me to look at that?" Kagome offered, walking over to his side at the table. "I might be able to help."
Nathaniel smiled. "Oh? It's fine really…"
Never the less, the priestess sat down and placed her hands upon his. Although the wound was bandaged, she knew her healing power would help ease his discomfort and restore his hand back to working order. Closing her eyes, she allowed her powers to surface, and eventually, her hands brightly glowed. In a matter of moments, waves of shimmering blue wrapped around his wound.
Surprised and also taken back by this, the scientist couldn't help but smile at the youthful girl. How surprising it was to see such extraordinary magic, and he didn't think it was possible. Of course he knew of some witches in town that brewed their own potions to aid the wounded, he never heard tell of physical magic.
By this point, the monk ended his prayer and peeked through the small hole in the window. "It seems they've gone away for now. These sutras will help keep them at bay for a time," Miroku explained.
Inuyasha crossed his arms, while still leaning against the wall. "You're better off leaving this place and head to town where it's safe."
Kagome agreed before setting her hands on her lap. "I agree…how is your hand? Better?"
Nathaniel smiled. "Much better. I can't feel the pain anymore. Thank you, young lady." He turned to the group and his face took on a serious look. "You're absolutely right…I've been meaning to leave…but there's still much to research," he explained. "However, my first priority is to take my daughter away from here…but even stepping outside is too dangerous and I fear I might put her life more at risk. I know she'll be safer in town."
"If you'd like…" Began the monk, "We can take Pamela with us on our way back to Clock Town," he offered, surprising both the father and his companions. "There's an inn there and I'm sure the caretakers would be more than willing to allow her a place to stay."
"Miroku, don't go making decisions!" Inuyasha protested. Besides, didn't it cost money to rent a room? Where the heck would he get the money? There was no way Anju and what's his name would simply allow the kid a place to stay for free.
As if reading the half demon's thoughts, Link joined in on the conversation. "If it's no trouble, I can provide the rent for her lodging." Link ignored the stupefied stare the half demon sent him.
Positively delighted, Nathaniel earnestly shook Miroku's hand, expressing his gratitude to both Link and the monk. "Honestly? Thank you!" These strangers had suddenly arrived in to his life and he knew it was a blessing in disguise. Finally his daughter would be away from her tormentors and someplace safe. "When things have settled down, I will return for Pamela." He knew that someday, they could make a home elsewhere, maybe even close to the sea.
Everyone was in agreement. Kagome didn't mind at all, in fact she thought it was the best thing for the little girl. Even Sango thought so too, as well as Link. Inuyasha on the other hand was a little annoyed by the fact that they'd have more problems to deal with, but he really didn't have a say in the matter; so he agreed.
Kagome nodded. "Then it's settled. Don't worry. She'll be in good hands."
Finally managing to collect the vegetables in her basket, Pamela returned upstairs with the vegetables in hand, but as soon as she reached the top of the staircase, she found that all eyes were staring at her, and she wasn't naïve to the silence either; she saw her father's saddened look and how he managed to smile slightly at her. Not bothering to set the basket down, she fisted her hands and confronted her father. "Father no! I won't go with them!"
"Pamela…" Her father held her in his arms. "It's for the best. If you were to continue on staying here, I know I'll be putting you in even greater danger."
Tears fell from her eyes and she cried. "No…father what will happen to you? I don't want to leave…" Pamela clung to his shirt and sobbed. All she knew was a group of foreigners had come in to her life and now they were taking her away. "Please let me stay."
Holding back his tears, Nathaniel looked up from his place on the floor and in to the eyes of Miroku. "When do you plan to leave?"
"Tomorrow morning. We have some things to take care of here and then we'll set out," he explained, watching the scene before him unfold. He pitied the family.
Nathaniel understood and resumed calming his daughter. "Pamela it's for the best…please understand."
OOO
That night, after Pamela had settled down, the group sat down to supper. For a time, it was silent outside, and the father told them of his many findings and evidence that there used to be a war between the valley and outside invaders known as the Garo Robe years ago. The group found this information quite intriguing but also entertaining as Nathaniel seemed so immersed in to his discoveries. At one point he had questioned Serena and her upbringing, and that led a new discovery of a wondrous fairy with mystical powers. Somehow, even Kirara was brought up in to the discussion. Yet no matter how many questions Miroku asked, it seemed as if the researcher did not know of any pendant.
After spending some time inside, and not wanting to inconvenience the family, the group decided to spend the night outside the house where they would be able to keep watch so that no intruders could get inside. Miroku had even gone so far as to place sutras around the outside of the house, to ensure the family's safety.
Resting beneath the lone tree a distance away, Miroku set up a magical barrier around themselves. Inuyasha had even been so kind as to gather some firewood, or what was left of any to build a fire.
"Link how did you become so strong?" Shippo asked. "You told me and Kagome about your past, but you weren't really specific about anything else. Did you always train?"
At this, everyone's attention shifted to Link, who for the first time was seated at the same fire, engaged in conversation. He didn't seem closed off but open. Although it took a few days to get used to them, he seemed at ease.
"How did I gain strength? In the beginning, I was overwhelmed, weak and frightened. I was afraid to face my fears, but I didn't have a choice in the matter. If I didn't go in to danger, then fear would cloud my judgment and I wouldn't be where I am today," he explained. "Each day, I had to find my own ways to gain strength, no matter if that was risking my life or simply practicing by myself."
Kagome, who found his story interesting, couldn't help but join in with Shippo. "Did you ever want to go back home? To the forest I mean."
Link nodded. "Many times, but what would that say about my honor?" He questioned. The youth stared in to the flames. "I am who I am today because of my past…there were times where I wanted to throw my sword down, but I couldn't runaway…still…"
"Still?" Sango asked.
He frowned. "If I hadn't have done anything to help those in need, then guilt would have consumed my conscience." His eyes fell on the tyke beside him and he offered a small smile. "The days, in which I have spent with you Shippo, you grow stronger. You may not realize it now, but with time, you'll understand. For now, concentrate on being young. When you grow older, you'll miss those times…"
Hearing this, Shippo nodded. There was still so much he wanted to ask Link, but at the moment, he was beginning to grow tired.
While they were on the conversation about Link, Sango decided to ask him some questions of her own, and she knew that everyone else was interested in knowing more about their companion. "I've been meaning to ask this, but your family…where—"
"I never knew my mother or my father," was his only reply. When he first began his quest to save Hyrule, and before the Great Deku tree had passed away, he was informed that his mother had breathed her last breath in order to bring him to safety within the forest. As for his father…perhaps he had died during the Civil War that plagued the land.
Sango felt bad. "I'm sorry…"
He only shook his head. "It's alright. It was bound to come up, I'm sure." As he sat there for some time with the group, he found it somewhat easy to open up, and he didn't mind sharing some of his past, such as his birth place, Hyrule for example.
While observing the youth, Miroku couldn't help but notice that the boy tended to keep a lot to himself, and he as he searched Link's eyes, all he could find was an expression of loss and perhaps…hurt? This time Miroku decided to join in. "Why did you come to Termina?" For now, it seemed like Link would keep to himself, but at least he was opening up to them more; you can't rush trust and friendship.
Silent for a moment, Link absentmindedly stared at fire, a saddened look crossed his face and he looked away. "I was searching for a friend…" That was right. After the final battle had ended between himself and Ganondorf, his trusted fairy companion, Navi had left him. Throughout Hyrule he couldn't locate her nor could he find her in Termina.
Kagome frowned. He had been searching for a friend? Who? Although Link revealed most of his past to her and Shippo days ago, she still found that he lived a lonely life. Well, he wasn't entirely alone; he had Serena and now they all had each other.
That night, after Kagome tucked herself and Shippo in to the sleeping bag for some rest, Link decided to venture away from the barrier and up the incline toward the house. Of course there were no complaints from either the monk or the slayer, as it seemed natural to provide the boy with some amount of space; they knew he could take care of himself and he proved it on their travels.
When he passed the small home, where Inuyasha sat quietly upon the roof to keep watch, Link made his way around the cliff until he stood on the other side of the river, that separated himself from the house.
Standing before a cave, carved in to the mountain side, Link stepped inside. A faint glimmer of green light guided him forward and as soon as he stood on the other side of the marble room, his eyes fell on the empty spring. Surrounded by the same columns as those in the other springs in Termina, Link noticed how the gentle fall of shimmering green lights, which fell from the ceiling, seemed quite dim. The longer he stood there, he realized that the lights were fading, and it became clear to him that he had arrived too late. The Great Fairy of Kindness was gone from this world. Even the gentle melody which once flooded the interior walls was gone and with it came an empty silence.
Removing his boots, Link sat upon the step near the rim of the pool and searched through his satchel. Thoughts of his friends, who had perished in Hyrule, came to mind suddenly, and achingly, he paused in his search and frowned deeply. The object of his attention sat innocently within his reach, baring the crest of the Royal Family, and with a pain gripping his heart, he reached for it.
After pulling the blue instrument from the bag, he placed his hand over the smooth surface before gingerly bringing the mouth piece to his lips. Closing his eyes, a soft but familiar melody filled the emptiness around him.