No one seemed more shocked than the harpy herself, staring down at the pieces with wide eyes. There was once again a void of youki, but the shimmer of her barrier was gone as well, all of her power having been concentrated on Kagura.
Kagome expected a show, one last vestige from the harpy as she sought revenge, but she simply disintegrated, ash falling from the sky.
There was nothing left of her.
"Did you—"
Kagome shook her head, helping her sister to her feet as they looked around, gaze finally landing on the only one left.
Chest heaving, Hojo still held some of the shards in his hands. "I-I only meant to stop her," he stuttered, shoulders trembling as he fell to his knees. "To protect you, Lady Kagome."
Kagura smothered a snort. "You turned the poor boy into a murderer. He'll never be able to live with himself now."
Kagome smacked her arm. "Remind me never to save you again."
Pursing her lips, Kagura sighed, giving her a quick hug. "What you did was reckless. You should worry about yourself more—or people who actually need saving." She nudged her towards Hojo, and Kagome sighed but acquiesced.
"Are you alright?" she asked.
He gave her a helpless look. "I should be asking you that question. You've once again come to my aid—"
"Well, you have a habit of getting yourself into trouble," she replied. "What were you doing up here, anyway? Hiding more supplies?"
He shook his head. "I was using what I thought was the safest route to the next kingdom. There have been creatures attacking the village, so I thought it a good time to move."
Kagome frowned. Her mother hadn't mentioned any attacks, but her trips into town had been less frequent since Kagome had been feeling ill. Reminding herself to ask her about it when they returned, she held out her hand.
She felt a chill go up her spine as their fingers touched, reiki crackling in response, and Hojo smiled up at her, eyes turning red.
"Found you."