Haha, so people got angry because I was bashing Kagome but then again maybe my warning wasn't clear enough.
Still, sorry for those who like her but I just can't with her.
WARNING: KAGOME Bashing, OPness, Chakra dubious explanations and shenanigans
EXTREME WARNING: Violence, and sensitive topics such as the mention of rape, possible gore. Readers are advised. Rated M for a reason.
BY THE WAY… this might end as a Kiba/Sesshomaru fic. I was REALLY stuck, like in all my stories, it took me forever to update because I had no inspiration whatsoever.
-xXx-
The Western Palace was in a frenzy.
Two days ago, one Inuzuka Kiba had taken it upon himself to chastise the actions of one Higurashi Kagome. Two days ago, Inuzuka Kiba had been led to his room and has not been seen since. Several members of Inuyasha's company had gone to the Inuzuka's room to inquire the state of his being but they had received no reply. There had been only silence. There had also been attempts to open the room but they had been puzzled to find that they could not.
"I just don't understand." Miroku sighed, violet eyes trained on the small forms of the children playing together. Kohaku and Shippo had been trying to cheer up Rin as it seemed that with the absence of the Inuzuka, her mood had turned melancholy. "Inuzuka-sama was led to his room and no one saw him leave but I can't sense him. At all." The monk remained silent for a moment. "Do you think someone did something to him?" His mind flashed back to a certain red-haired demon.
Beside him, Inuyasha snorted. "You mean that demon that Inuzuka had saved? He wouldn't try to do anything, monk. Inuzuka saved his life, if anything Nobuyuki's going to smother the guy."
Sango glanced towards her comrade curiously. "What do you mean Inuyasha?" She took a careful drink of her tea, giving a small hum of satisfaction as she savored the taste.
Inuyasha's ears twitched slightly and his hands rested comfortable in the sleeves his new haori. Sesshomaru, the bastard of a brother, had demanded that they look presentable. It seems that they were getting some very important guests soon and he didn't want them embarrassing him or something.
He'd been giving new clothes and they were surprisingly comfortable but it had made him blanch at what he imagined they might have cost. He'd been given clothing that thankfully wasn't too constricting and he'd even been given armor as well. The result ended with him looking startling close to Inutaisho. It had certainly garnered second looks. "What do you mean what do I mean? Don't you humans understand anything at all?" He grumbled and next to him Kouga gave a huff of laughter.
Kouga was dressed differently as well, they all were, and he had made for a startling difference as well. He looked more like the prince that he was, dressed in a regal blue and elaborate haori that draped around him like a shroud of elegance. His hair had also been into a careful ponytail and some of wisps had been allowed to gently curl about his face. In all, he looked striking.
"What the mutt means is that Inuzuka had saved Nobuyuki's life. A human saved a demon's life, from holy spiritual energy no less. Nobuyuki was in Inuzuka's debt for saving his life but we all know that Inuzuka isn't one to do shit like this to get favors." Kouga elaborated, glancing at the others to make sure that they understood.
"So what you're saying is that Nobuyuki-san would rather protect Inuzuka-sama?" Sango said hesitantly and somewhat incredulously. Even as a slayer, she'd never really seen or heard of these types happenings. It must have been a part of demon culture that was innately understood, even among half breeds. "Really?"
Kouga and Inuyasha glanced at each other before shrugging.
"It's hard to put into words. It's a demon thing." Kouga said as if that explained everything.
"A demon thing." Miroku repeated, trying to stop the smile that wanted to break across his face. Despite that, Miroku gave a small chuckle.
Sango gave a small smile as well. She looked as striking as the men. She wore a beautiful kimono, one that was green splashed with yellow and pink. Her hair shone under the sun and she wore a minimal amount of makeup. She didn't need much of it. She was already beautiful. "I just hope that Inuzuka-sama is fine."
"I'm sure he's fine Sango." Miroku reassured, hands hidden in the sleeves of his own elaborate robe. For once, his ponytail wasn't in place and his hair had been allowed to curl around his neck. His hair had gotten longer during his travels and he'd found that he enjoyed the comforting weight and warmth of it. He was wearing robes similar to what he usually wore. They were just as elegant as what had been granted to his comrades, except they were black and a deeper violet. "Inuzuka-sama is a very capable fighter. And healer as well, it seems."
"I'm willing to bet the surprises don't end there." Inuyasha muttered.
Kouga nodded in agreement. "I kind of want to spar against him."
"To see what he's like when he's fighting full out?" Inuyasha raised an eyebrow.
"Yeah." Kouga's head turned towards the great towering doors to see a servant walking towards them.
"Excuse me," the servant said, a small smile on her face. "Lord Sesshomaru requires your presence in the Great Dining Hall. His guests are arriving."
Inuyasha merely grunted in understanding as he stood, the others following suit.
In the time that they had stayed in Sesshomaru's home, they had been treated surprisingly well. They had all received their own rooms, all lavish and extravagant in their own ways. They had been fed and given clothing, though they had tried to refuse the latter, their attempts of returning the clothing were rebuffed by kind smiles that promised much pain. Not only that, but they had been treated politely and with respect.
As for Kagome though, many had given her weary and disgusted looks, even on behalf of the humans. Kagome didn't seem to care the looks thrown her way, that, or she remained oblivious to them which was hard to accomplish admittedly. The miko had also been keeping her distance from the rest of the group since the incident.
Admittedly, Inuyasha wasn't sure what to think about the girl's actions. He'd been traveling with Kagome for a good while and while there had been occasional… incidences, they had never been as bad as what he had witnessed. No matter how much he had wanted to deny it, he couldn't even lie to himself. He couldn't deny that Kagome's behavior has gotten increasingly aggressive and that her attitude has turned towards something less kind and more controlling.
-xXx-
Kiba had woken in his bed severely disoriented but he felt better than he had in days. He had spent a few moments staring at the ceiling before realizing what had happened. Then, almost immedietly after his sudden realization, he groaned.
"Holy shit, the others must think I'm dead by now." He rubbed the palm of his hands over his face frustratingly. "At least I feel better now." Kiba said aloud before sitting up, marveling at the well-rested feeling that he had. "I need a bath though."
The Inuzuka made his way to the great bath, grabbing new clothing on the way as well as his usual hygienic products. There was a nagging sensation in the back of his mind. It felt like he had forgotten something but he couldn't remember, which was very frustrating. He frowned as he rolled his shoulders, trying to rid them of the tension that had accumulated during his long sleep.
He sighed in relief as he sunk into the heated waters, not at all minding the scalding heat. His head leaned back and the Inuzuka stared absentmindedly into the air as he wondered, not for first or last time, how his friends and family were doing, how his village was fairing. Most of all, his mind wandered to one Shimura Danzo. It bothered him that he couldn't continue his investigations because something in him told him that he needed to continue. There was a feeling of foreboding that always came at the thought of the old war hawk and Kiba was sure that whatever was to be found was going to be decidedly unpleasant.
His instincts had hardly ever failed him and they wouldn't now, but he wished that he was wrong about this. Wished that one of his own fellow villagers wasn't so shrouded in mystery and such darkness.
He pushed the thoughts to the back of his mind. Now was now the time to think about such things but unfortunately, his mind was still set towards a darker path and his mind replayed his dispute with Kagome.
"I just don't understand her…" He muttered as he rinsed the soap from his body. "But then again, I haven't known her for all that long. I wish I could have gotten along with her, at least for the sake of the mission, but I'm pretty sure it's too late for that now." The Inuzuka sighed in faint contentment as he lavished in the heated waters for a few moments.
As he thought back to the last few days spent in the company of his new companions, the Inuzuka remembered what it was that had eluded his mind. "I remember now… Sesshomaru-sama is having guests over." With some reluctance, the shinobi left the bath. "I should be there. If only to be considerate."
Drying himself off, the Inuzuka dressed himself in the best clothes that he had. It was the clothes that he wore during clan meetings as he was an heir, he was often required to attend. The best clothing the Inuzuka had, currently at least, was his uniform. Black ANBU pants tucked into knee high black shinobi sandals and long-sleeved shirt under his armored vest that had black fur almost akin to same style of the Nidaime. To finish, he wore a black haori over the ensemble. The end result was surprisingly elegant and gave the Inuzuka somewhat of an intimidating look, especially with his more feral features and dark colors.
He removed his headband, deciding it was best to place it around his bicep under his haori instead. He tugged at his hair for a moment, realizing that his hair had gotten longer. It had been a while since he had cut his hair as he had never had an opportune moment to cut it. That, and it had always slipped his mind seeing as he had had more important matter to attend to. At least his hair looked tamer now that it was longer. It reached a little past his chin now.
As always, the Inuzuka hid a few weapons on his person. Just a few senbon, kunai, and shuriken.
"What a life." Kiba muttered quietly to himself as he left his room. He didn't know how long he'd been sleeping but judging by the stiffness of his body, it'd been a few days. Idly, he stretched his arms a bit, trying to rid the lingering tension. At least his bath had helped somewhat.
As the Inuzuka stepped into the corridor, the shinobi was instantly aware of others glancing his way. Kiba frowned a bit but he noticed that many were giving him looks of faint shock and surprise. Why, he didn't know.
"Inuzuka-sama!" A voice called out softly, tinged with surprise.
Kiba turned to see Akane coming his way. The maid's eyes were wide with shock and behind her, Nobuyuki was looking at him in the same manner.
Nobuyuki looked better than how Kiba had last remembered him but then again, last time the demon was writhing on the floor and in pain, covered in blood and looking as if he was on death's door. He was dressed in what looked like an elaborate armor, and he looked every bit a warrior. Behind him, another demon stood close.
He looked at the Inuzuka with curiosity in his blue eyes. He had pale platinum hair and he was dressed in the same armor as Nobuyuki. It seemed that they were a part of Sesshomaru's forces, part of whatever army he had.
"What happened to you Inuzuka-sama?" Akane asked. "We were looking for you and we couldn't find you, not to mention, we wouldn't even sense you! Your friends were worried. Rin-chan came looking for you too. She was very upset with your absence."
"Uh," Kiba frowned, guilt stirring in him, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause a commotion." Kiba said, rubbing the back of his head in a somewhat nervous gesture. "I mean, I never left." Kiba said bluntly, smiling somewhat at the wide eyes that he garnered. "If you could take me to where the others are, I could explain properly as to what happened. It's better to just do it once."
Akane said nothing for a moment but she shook her head, trying to reign in her surprise. "Of course, Inuzuka-sama. This way please." She gestured with a hand to follow her. "The others should be gathered in the meeting room with Sesshomaru-sama. He has guests arriving soon."
"Guests?" Kiba murmured, blinking as Nobuyuki settled beside him on his right and the other pale haired demon on his left.
"Ah yes," Akane hummed, a small smile forming on her face as she glanced back at the Inuzuka. "You look amazing Inuzuka-sama, which is perfect for today!" She said happily. "We had clothing prepared for you but we since we couldn't get to you, we couldn't give them to you."
"Ah… my apologies."
Akane waved a nonchalant hand, seeming all the more carefree to the Inuzuka than when he had first met her. She had been more reserved then but that might have been because she had been apprehensive about him and the others.
"There's no need to apologize, Inuzuka-sama. I'm relieved to find you in good health." Akane said sincerely.
Kiba said nothing, merely nodding though there was a small smile on his face. He took in the faces of the demons, idly wondering what type they were, how it was that demons were really classified. They were so different from what he knew that they were a bit of marvel to him. They almost seemed like shinobi to him, except a lot more specialized, not to mention the distinctive characteristics that they had such as markings and even extra demonic features such as pointed ears and clawed hands and even the occasional animalistic feature.
They arrived to a large set of double doors which were opened by a pair of sentries who glanced at them with curiosity and faint surprise. The room was incredibly spacious and simply screamed luxury. There were paintings hung and the Inuzuka looked at them with no small amount of interest.
There was a painting of a man that looked startling alike to Sesshomaru and Inuyasha but older. He had long hair held in a ponytail, dressed similarly to Sesshomaru, he held his swords at his waist and even through the painting, Kiba could feel that this being had commanded great power and respect.
"Inuzuka-sama!"
"Holy shi─"
"Inuzuka-san?"
The shinobi was greeted by his new comrades with various looks of surprise and relief. What he noted instantly, and with some surprise, was that everyone was dressed in nicely. Inuyasha and Kouga had him taking double looks, however, with how different that they looked. He also noticed, that Kagome was sulkily sitting by herself in a corner but it seemed like she was determined to ignore them.
"Where the hell have you been?" Inuyasha demanded, gold eyes scanning the other for any signs of injuries.
Kiba was about to reply but before he could, the large double doors opened again and this time, Sesshomaru strode in as imposing and as striking as ever. The demon wasn't alone, however. There were other figures following behind him that radiated a sort of strength and energy that made the shinobi stand straighter. He recognized the feeling of authority and they radiated it, none more so than Sesshomaru. There were three other signatures that was almost reminiscent of that of Sesshomaru's. Guards came in and stood unobtrusively near the walls, quiet and stoic.
Nobuyuki and the demon that had been with him were a few of them. There were others that the Inuzuka didn't recognize but he could see that they didn't carry Sesshomaru's crest, a royal purple crescent moon. There were different insignias, the Inuzuka noticed. There was a tribal like sun, a star (imagine the compass star), and what looked like a tribal teardrop.
Akane bowed to Sesshomaru and quietly left the room, closing the door behind her as she did so.
Sesshomaru's eyes scanned the room, pausing slightly on the Inuzuka before he sat down. The others followed suit readily.
Kiba wasn't sure what exactly was going on but regardless, he had some semblance of an idea. It reminded him of one of the Inuzuka Clan meetings when they met other Clan Heads to discuss important matters and the like. The shinobi used his the training he learned in such occasions and stood straight, focusing his attention to the present and those before him.
"Sesshomaru, it has long been a long time since we have last talked." A demon with long blond hair said softly. He had a kind smile on his face but his pale blue eyes were sharp with assessment. On his forehead rested a pale orange tribal sun.
Of course, they wouldn't use honorifics with each other. They were all on equal standings with each other, all powerful demons and lords of their respectful lands.
"Indeed it has, Akihiko." A deep voice rumbled. He a sort of roguish look to him with his short red brown hair and wine-colored eyes. He wore red and white robes along with black armor that depicted the image of a star in gold.
"But then again, it's not like the we can leave our lands that often Ryoma." The demon gave a small sigh, hands clasped politely on his lap. He almost reminded the Inuzuka somewhat of what he imagined a Senju would be, with his long brown hair, deep emerald eyes and darkly colored skin.
"These are your guests, Sesshomaru?" Akihiko said, eyes roving over the assembled guests. "I assume you have them here for a reason. Perhaps for the same reason we have all gathered?" Akihiko switched his attention to Sesshomaru.
Sesshomaru remained silent for a moment, eyes closed in contemplation. He looked the very image of a lord and briefly, Kiba contemplated the kind of hidden village that Sesshomaru would run. He'd be the Kage of formidable shinobi, that was for sure.
Definitely a Kage… Anything less would be preposterous, Kiba thought. The idea of Sesshomaru bowing to the power of another being was even more ridiculous.
"This Sesshomaru has traveled across the lands in search for that beast. He flees like a coward at every encounter, however, and denies this Sesshomaru a proper duel." Sesshomaru said quietly, his voice commanding all attention.
From his seat, Kiba paid close attention. He could finally be getting comprehensive information about the state of the lands, what the recent goings were, and maybe even perhaps how situations were handled in according to threats and such. The fact that he was in the presence of the leaders of said lands was an unexpected bonus.
"You mean Naraku?" Ryoma bit out with no small amount of anger. "I can say with certainty that my lands have not been the only ones ravaged by that creature's foul machinations? Akihiko, Itsuki?"
The other demon lords nodded solemnly, and they accepted the tea that Akane offered quietly as she came in.
"There have been hordes passing through my lands nearly every day. Not only that, but they kill my livestock and they're destroying my people's crops. This can't go on any longer. My people will not survive this if this continues." Itsuki hissed, his green eyes darkening with his anger.
Akihiko nodded, taking a sip of his tea while a clawed finger tapped thoughtfully at the rim. "It seems that Naraku wants to take control over our lands by forcing us into submission. I've stretched my forces thin across the lands trying to protect them and my people but they can't be everywhere at once." He gave a tired sigh. "How it is that he's creating those abominations at such an incredible rate and quantity is beyond me but we need to find out how and stop it fast."
"All I've seen are his damn minions. Have any of you encountered him recently?" Ryoma asked, eyebrows furrowed in thought.
Akihiko and Itsuki shook their head.
Sesshomaru nodded, hands wrapped around his cup of tea. "This Sesshomaru encountered the beast just a few days ago, only a week's worth of travel from this Sesshomaru's palace. He tried to take Rin and he nearly succeeded." Sesshomaru said calmly but for a brief moment, his eyes flashed red with rage that contrasted sharply with his stoic face.
"They nearly took Rin-chan?" Itsuki repeated worriedly, a concerned frown flickering over his face.
Akihiko and Ryoma exchanged solemn looks.
"Yes. It was due to some intervention that Rin escaped." Sesshomaru turned to Kiba and he nodded slowly, understanding dawning over the faces of the demon lords. "Naraku intended to distract this Sesshomaru in order to kill Rin. He did this by engaging this Sesshomaru directly."
"Did he flee? Again?" Ryoma asked, nodding his head in thanks as Akane refilled his cup with hot tea.
"He did." Sesshomaru replied, biting back a growl building in his throat. "But not without injuring the beast."
The demon lords sat straighter, looking at the Demon Lord of the West in surprise.
"… This was not accomplished without Inuyasha's help, however, along with Inuzuka Kiba." Sesshomaru admitted. He hated to admit that he had help injuring the detestable demon but Sesshomaru wasn't going to lie. Though he hated that he could not have killed the demon on his own, working with Inuyasha wasn't as despicable as he thought it was going to be.
Sesshomaru was actually coming to find that he didn't hate his brother as much as he did when he was younger. When he had truly hated Inuyasha, he had been angry by his father's unfaithfulness to his mother and angry that his father had been turning his attention away when he himself had hardly had it. And then, Inuyasha had been the result. Inuyasha, Izayoi and Inutaisho had truly been the family that Sesshomaru's heart had longed for before he had buried it.
It had been painful.
"Inuzuka Kiba?" Itsuki asked, curious.
Sesshomaru gestured with a pale hand towards the Inuzuka now standing unobtrusively in a corner, blending in what shadows were to be found. "Inuyasha's comrades helped in occupying Naraku's demons while this Sesshomaru, Inuyasha, and Inuzuka-san engaged directly with Naraku. He fled, like the coward that he is, but we had managed to injure him."
"Inuzuka-san, Inuyasha-san" Ryoma said, eyeing the shinobi and with a hand gestured him to come up towards the table, "step up please."
The shinobi did as he was asked, bowing towards the lords in respect ─ missing their surprised looks ─ and giving them as much attention as he would his superiors. "Ryoma-sama." He said quietly, eyes sharp and assessing.
Inuyasha did as was asked as well but with hidden trepidation. He wasn't used to being in the presence of such company. He was more used to being sneered at and discriminated for what he was. Trust and respect wasn't something that he gave easily.
"Tell me, how is it that you managed to injure Naraku?" Ryoma asked, trying to understand how it was that it had happened. "Naraku has an awful tendency to flee, not to mention those goddamned puppets of his that he likes to use."
Inuyasha crossed his arms, a scowl forming over his face. "I know what you mean but even I'm not sure how we got the bastard. I actually thought that he'd end up being a puppet." Inuyasha turned towards Kiba, eyebrows furrowed. "That's something I've wondered myself. Did you know about the puppets Inuzuka?" He asked.
At the question, the Inuzuka nodded. "I did." He answered. "Before I arrived to the battle, I had started sensing his energy. It was…" Kiba scowled as the others nodded along with him. They had all sensed the demon's foul energy at one point or another and they understood the horrid feeling it carried. "It wasn't that hard to know that he wasn't a puppet. I mean I could feel his energy. It's kind of hard not to. Besides, puppets have a different feel to them… It's a bit hard to explain."
"You felt his energy?" Miroku couldn't stop from asking the question. He was intrigued and he wanted to understand how it was that Kiba had managed what they couldn't. It might have been luck but anything was better than nothing.
The Inuzuka glanced at the monk from the corner of his eye but he didn't turn away from the lords before him. "I've fought puppet users before but it's probably not along the same as what you're thinking. I managed to sense Naraku because he couldn't hide his energy, not to mention with how it felt. His scent was another give away too, but his energy was what stood out to me. Puppets usually don't have the same scent as their users, not to mention they lack the energy inherent to all living creatures."
"What?" Itsuki looked towards the other with wide eyes. "What do you mean?"
"It's different for everyone. Demonic energy is different from humans and so on. Everyone can feel it in some way or another, like in the form of pressure, a visible aura or even killing intent." Kiba gave a small sigh. "I don't think everyone senses it the same way I do but some can, like priestesses and monks. As for the energy, it's just the energy that everyone naturally produces like spiritual energy and demonic energy. How a person and to what extent one can sense depends on a person."
"And you can sense it?" Ryoma asked, trying to understand what was being said. "But you are neither a spiritual being or even part demon so how is it that you can? I thought that those were the only beings that could sense such things. A large number of humans remain largely ignorant to such matters, unless they're slayers but they train their senses more on the physical aspect instead of the spiritual one."
"I can because I was trained for it and my Clan has certain attributes that allows me for a more developed sensitivity." Kiba admitted.
"Could others be trained as well?" Akihiko asked, looking at the being before him with a measure of respect and surprise.
Kiba shook his head. "I'm sorry." It'd be hard to explain why they couldn't be trained because he wasn't even sure if what training methods he had could be applied to them as they were intended for chakra only. He didn't know how their powers worked. He was the only one of his kind in this world, a lonely thought for sure.
Itsuki nodded understandably before turning towards the other lords. "What we need to do is have some semblance of a plan to take down Naraku. It's the reason why we formed an alliance in the first place."
Ryoma gave a smirk. "That's not the only reason Itsuki. You and everyone else agreed because we weren't the bastards you thought we were."
Itsuki barely contained the put-upon sigh as he glared at the other. "Yes, well, just a while ago we were enemies, as had our predecessors. The fact that all the Lords of the North, South, East, and West have an alliance is astonishing. Such an alliance hasn't been seen in hundreds of years."
Sesshomaru nodded regally before Akane came up beside him, telling him that dinner was ready. He stood and the lords stood with him, the others following suit after. "Gentlemen, we shall dine." Sesshomaru strode from the room with the lords by his side, making an intimidating image.
Everyone bowed to the lords as they passed and gave murmurs of respect. How could they not? They were the most powerful beings in the lands, in terms of power, wealth, and political weight.
Kiba followed quietly, marveling at the respect that the demons garnered. No doubt from different combinations of fear and admiration. It reminded him of the looks the Sandaime used to get. A powerful and respected man, that one. Briefly, he entertained the image of all the Kage's meeting together but he quickly dismissed it.
Such a thing was unlikely to happen unless something drastic happened.
When they arrived to the dining hall, they were greeted by maids all standing to the side, waiting to tend to them. A large banquet was displayed on the great table, surprising the Inuzuka with the sheer amount of food that there was. The shinobi was led to his seat, which was coincidentally next to Sesshomaru's. In front of him sat the demon lords, all next to each other. Kouga sat next to Kiba and then the rest of the table was filled by Inuyasha and the others.
"My, you never fail to impress, Sesshomaru." Ryoma muttered, almost rolling his eyes. He didn't though because even he could admit to himself that out of all the demon lords, Sesshomaru was the strongest. It was simply a fact.
Sesshomaru said nothing but he turned his head slightly as he noticed a small form barreling towards the Inuzuka.
Kiba gave a faint sound of surprise ─ he'd noticed her coming his way a mile away ─ as he clutched at the small form that was one Rin.
"Inuzuka-sama! You're here, you're here!" Rin repeated, hugging the Inuzuka with all her might and without a second thought, climbed atop his lap and hugged the Inuzuka's torso and wound her arms around the other's neck. "Rin thought that you left! Rin went to look for you but Rin couldn't find you!" She said, a sad frown on her face and tears welling in her doe eyes.
"She's right you know." Kouga added as he saw him hurry to comfort the small girl. "We couldn't find you anywhere. Where'd you go off to anyway if you didn't go anywhere?" Kouga asked.
Kiba gently patted the girl's head, trying to comfort her but regardless, Rin held on tight.
At the end of the table, the others listened in curiously, wanting to know themselves what had happened to the Inuzuka.
A nosy bunch, those guys but then again, I suppose I owe them some type of an explanation. I did disappear on them after all. But how the hell do I explain them so they could understand? Kiba resisted the urge to sigh for what seemed like the millionth time. It felt like that was all he did these days. "Remember what I told you guys about chakra and all that? About physical and spiritual energy?"
At the faint nods that this garnered, Kiba continued though there were still faint looks of confusion thrown his way. "The simplest way I could explain is that my chakra was regulating itself. My seals had been disrupting the flow of my energy and because of that, it caused me to be sick. I didn't realize it until I started to really feel off and the way I was using my energy had only been hindering my process of healing."
"Wait," Miroku interrupted, staring at the Inuzuka thoughtfully, "when did this, uh, process begin?"
Kiba frowned. He'd been feeling off pretty much since he had arrived into this foreign world and the general hollowness that he'd always felt was normal to him now, although it's something that he's long accepted to live with. "I think my chakra has been off a little before I met Rin… so I think more than three weeks? I'm not too sure, really." Since I appeared in this world…
Sesshomaru frowned. What exactly were the effects of such actions? He didn't understand the Inuzuka's method of power, his chakra. The powers that he utilized were unlike anything he's ever seen. As far as humans went, this one was surprisingly competent whose company was also surprisingly pleasant compared to most humans that's he's met so far. It didn't hurt that Rin was fond of the Inuzuka as well.
Kiba continued, idly running a hand through Rin's hair. "I'm back to normal now though." As normal as I can be, I suppose.
"Lord Sesshomaru," Itsuki said, "we should continue our meeting tomorrow. I don't think that there is a need to rush, especially about matters such as these." Itsuki glanced to his fellow lords who nodded along with his suggestion. "It's best to take our time."
Sesshomaru gave a small nod in agreement, keeping a subtle eye on all his guests, especially the miko. There was an air of animosity that was practically radiating from the woman and though she tried to hide it ─ pathetically so, might he add ─ her look of discontent was clear on her face. She kept glancing to the Inuzuka and frowning ever so often at Inuyasha and Kouga.
Kouga and Inuyasha were very well aware of the looks thrown their way but they were disregarded in light of Sesshomaru's guests. They didn't want to cause a situation although Kagome certainly didn't have the same reservations as they did it seemed.
The Inuzuka sighed as he tried to reign in the urge to growl at the girl that was sitting at the end of the table. It was becoming more and more apparent that the girl didn't belong in this mission. She was becoming increasingly aggressive towards the others and it was causing dissent among the group and that was the last thing that the Inuzuka wanted to do. As hard a thought it was, the Inuzuka thought that perhaps it was best to try to talk to Kagome to see if they could try to reach an understanding.
Kagome and the others had been friends before his arrival and friendship should never be broken if it could be avoided. Maybe if the Inuzuka reassured her that her 'fears' were for naught…
With that thought in mind, the Inuzuka went through his meal quietly all the while listening to the others talk, indulging Rin with his attention whenever she requested it.
It wasn't long until dinner finished and they were free to do as they wished. Kiba took this as his chance to make amends with Kagome though he knew that he had done no wrong… Regardless, he'd be the adult he was and act rationally. He could only hope that Kagome would do the same.
With a deep breath, the Inuzuka hurried to catch up with the black-haired time traveler. "Kagome!" He called out, relived when he caught the girl's attention. "Can I talk to you?"
Kagome glared at the other as anger rushed forwards at the mere sight of the other. "What do you want?" She said scathingly as she crossed her arms. He's the reason why everyone's looking at me like I'm evil. He's the reason Inuyasha doesn't have his beads. Don't they understand that he needs them? Don't they understand that they don't need him!?
Kiba resisted the urge to snap at the other. "Could you walk with me please? It'd be better if we talked at the training grounds or something." He suggested.
Kagome eyed the other with suspicion and in reply she merely turned around and began to walk in the direction of the training grounds. Why the other wanted to talk there was beyond her and she really didn't care what the other had to say but she'd listen to the other. "Well are you coming or are you going to stand there like a moron?" She said loudly and resisted the urge to smirk as she saw others glance their way. No doubt those looks were for the damn interloper.
The Inuzuka nearly growled at the other. God, he was trying to be civilized! Why was she making it so hard? He followed nonetheless and followed silently behind the other.
They arrived quickly in tense silence. Kiba sat in one of the many stone benches that were at the side of the spacious training ground. It reminded the Inuzuka of the ones that were in Konoha. There were many soldiers at the training ground scattered across. Some were practicing their sword play, others were working on their hand to hand combat, and some were even working on their conditioning. It was somewhat surprising to the Inuzuka to see that there were also many females that made a large part of Sesshomaru's army. He had somewhat expected there to be less, if only because of the era that he appeared to be in.
Kagome sat next to the other with so small amount of reluctance. Her foot tapped against the ground in an agitated rhythm.
Kiba took a deep breath.
Meanwhile, Sesshomaru came upon the training grounds to assess his soldiers. Behind him at a respectful distance were his Commanders, one Akiyama Nobuyuki and Kobayashi Haruka. The demon lords of the North, South, and East were gazing around with interested faces. It was nothing they haven't seen before but Sesshomaru's grand palace was a piece of art and the power and tenacity that his men displayed was admirable.
Suffice to say, he was somewhat surprised to see Kiba and Kagome at the training grounds.
"Inuzuka-san?" Nobuyuki muttered, eyes trained on the shinobi and a frown forming on his face as he spotted the miko beside him. "What is she doing?" He muttered to himself and he couldn't help his eyes from narrowing in suspicion.
"Ah, he's the one right?" Haruka said, faint surprise crossing the demon's face. He glanced to his comrade for a moment somewhat amazed at the intensity in his eyes. He looked like he wanted to tear the miko apart with his bare hands. "He's the one that healed you?"
Nobuyuki nodded absently, eyes still trained on the Inuzuka and the miko.
"Healed?" Akihiko repeated softly, eyebrows drawn in thought as he glanced towards his old subject and then to Sesshomaru. "Did something happen?"
Sesshomaru spared the other a glance. "There was an altercation between Nobuyuki and the miko." He turned his gaze back to the training filed, observing his soldiers for a moment before drifting back to the Inuzuka. "Inuzuka healed him."
"Kagome," Kiba said quietly, a look of contemplation on his face as he turned to face the miko. "I just wanted to talk to you. I wanted to try to work out a sort of…" Kiba trailed off for a moment, trying to find a word to describe what he wanted from the other, "I wanted to try to work out a truce with you. I don't want this," Kiba motioned between them, "to affect the others."
Kagome frowned heavily. "This?" She said incredulously. "What the hell are you talking about?"
Frustration welled within the shinobi but he breathed out carefully, unwilling to show his discomfort to the other but it was hard. Even though he was different from his fellow Inuzuka, he still retained some of their traits such as their inclinations to feel emotions heavily.
"I mean you hate me Kagome. You don't like me." He said bluntly. "I want to make you understand that I'm not trying to take your place in the group Kagome. I never wanted to." He explained. "I just went along because Rin asked me to and because it was obviously the right thing to do. I mean Naraku needs to be stopped for the greater good. What was I supposed to do walk away?"
"Yes!" Kagome snapped, drawing the attention of others around her but she remained oblivious to their stare. "I wanted─ no, I want you to leave! We don't need your help here! We were doing just fine before you butted in. Rin could have gotten over you. She's a kid! She won't even remember you once you're gone!"
The comment hurt the Inuzuka, it really did.
"Kagome─" Kiba started.
"Shut up!" She hissed. "I don't even know why the others want you here! What I know is that ever since you came things have been going downhill. And it's all. Your. Fault!"
Kiba couldn't stop the growl that broke his throat. "How can you blame me!? I have no control over their actions! What they do is up to them." Kiba stood, "God, Kagome, all I wanted was to at least try to put aside all of this damn irrational hatred that you have for me because god knows that's the last thing we need."
Kagome gave a scandalized gasp. "Excuse me!?"
"You heard me Kagome!" Kiba snapped. "Whatever it is you think I'm doing, stop! I'm not trying to take your place or whatever ridiculous notions you've come up with. All I wanted was a damned truce but it's clear to me that you're not a fucking grown up and you think that your way is the only way." The Inuzka turned away from her, anger rising like a tidal wave.
A small form collided against his leg and the Inuzuka glanced down to see Rin looking at him with teary eyes.
"I-Inuzuka-sama?" She said quietly, hands gripping at the material of his pants as she glanced uncertainly between Kagome and Kiba. "Are you okay?" She asked. She had followed him because she had feared that he'd disappear again. She didn't know him well enough yet to not worry like when Sesshomaru-sama leaves. Sesshomaru-sama leaves but he always came back. Inuzuka-sama? She wasn't sure yet so she'd stay near him in the meantime until she was reassured but she didn't doubt his word. It was just a personal fear of hers.
Kiba took a deep breath, trying to curb his anger if only for Rin, but it was hard. He really didn't want to upset her because then it'd upset him. He didn't like seeing her so sad. It was like seeing Naruto depressed and that was one thing a person simply did not do.
Kagome stood as well ─ completely disregarding Rin ─ her face turning red and hands curled at her sides. "You're the same age as me! You can't say that about me! We're the sa─"
Kiba turned so fast that Kagome couldn't even comprehend what had happened but in the blink of an eye he had the sharp edge of his katana pointed at her throat. "Don't you dare finish that sentence Higurashi!" He didn't want to be compared to her. He didn't like her attitude, her sheer arrogance and her controlling ways. It made him so angry. "I am nothing like you."
Kagome was deathly pale but she still found the strength to glare at him.
Kiba snarled. "God, I can't even stand to look at you." He turned away from the miko. I need to be alone, he thought, before I do something I regret. My patience only runs so far. He turned away to leave, with a hand gently on Rin's shoulder, but there was the sound of chains and something wrapped around his waist and he was yanked back with such force that it took his breath away and the Inuzuka slammed to the ground, the force of it breaking the ground apart.
"My, what a touching scene." A voice sneered.
Kiba's voice ran cold. He knew that voice. God, he thought, this day could get worse. Why does this happen to me? "It's you." Kiba said quietly, pushing himself up from the rubble and his eyes instantly landed to Rin who was only a few feet away. "Rin!"
The little girl was crying and then, the others sprung into action, Sesshomaru leading the way.
It was too late, however, as a great bubble of glowing blue erupted around them. The barrier pulsed with chakra, once, twice, three times before it became clear.
There was laughter and the Inuzuka returned his attention to his enemy. It was the same missing-nin that had gotten him into this mess in the first place. The same missing-nin that had nearly killed his teammates along with him.
"You." Kiba growled as he stood and Rin ran behind him to hide. He could hear her stifled cries and it made him grit his teeth and despite wanting to comfort the little girl, he didn't dare to turn his attention away from the missing-nin. Not to mention Kagome was there with them too, trapped with them. "Nakamura Katsuro, S-Ranked nukenin from Yugagakure." Kiba recited. He knew this man quite clearly from the pages of the Bingo Book.
Nakamura laughed, his voice harsh and cold, and gave a smile that was full of teeth. "Oh, so you remember me, huh, Inuzuka?" He said, hands tightening around his sword and radiating a killing intent that made Rin cry out harshly and tighten her grip on Kiba and Kagome shake at the feel of it.
Sesshomaru was so very angry. His sword was drawn and his soldiers had immedietly followed suit and he sent a wave of blue energy from Tensaiga. His anger only grew when the barrier pulsed with strange energy and remained intact without a single scratch. He would have turned into his greater demon form then, but he did not want to cause any unnecessary injuries.
"What the fuck?"
Sesshomaru saw Inuyasha running beside him, gold eyes taking in the scene before him and sword drawn.
"Inuyasha, break the barrier!" Miroku ordered, his voice stern.
"Way ahead of you houshi." Inuyasha muttered as he lifted his sword, concentrating and swiping his sword down powerfully. "Kongosoha!"He cried. (Adamant Barrage) There was a wave of diamond shards infused with Inuyasha's and Tetsusaiga's energy. They sped towards the barrier but Inuyasha and the others were left gaping in shock as the barrier didn't even make a crack at the onslaught.
"What?" Miroku gasped, staring in disbelief.
"That didn't work!?" Sango cried out, holding her demon bone boomerang in hand. "That attack could break though most barriers, spiritual or demonic, and it didn't even make a scratch!?"
Kiba stiffened, hearing the voices of his new comrades behind his back. This isn't good. I'm trapped in a barrier against an S-ranked missing ninja with Rin at my back... and Kagome. "Let Rin and Kagome out! They have nothing to do with this!" He demanded, heart pounding in worry for Rin. It was one thing to go against those mindless demons but this? God, how could I have not sensed him?!... He pushed the thought away.
Nakamura merely gave a smirk, insanity and bloodlust written in his face. "It was because of you that I ended in this godforsaken place. My orders had been so simple you know?" He sighed tragically, as if trying to gain understanding from the other.
"Orders?" Kiba repeated, his mind running through strategies and plans, and drawing many conclusions from that statement, many causing dread to pool in the Inuzuka's stomach.
"Oh, right I'm a missing nin. But you already knew that." Nakamura laughed, cold and cruel. "But you see, Inuzuka, I got orders from the leader of the Akatsuki himself! It was quite the surprise for little ole' me but I got offered half a million up front and half a million after I completed my mission! And such an easy mission too!" He gave a smile, his tone delighted and hands clapping together happily.
The Inuzuka could feel his face pale. The worst thing that could happen, did happen. Now was not the time to panic however. He needed to be calm and level headed. A snarl twisted his lips and a clawed hand gripped his haori and the Inuzuka threw it to the ground, exposing his ANBU like shinobi wear. His headband glinted proudly in the light around his arm.
At the Inuzuka's anger, a smirk stretched across Nakamura's face. "Such easy pickings… Kill the newest generations of shinobi, Nakamura. Cripple their forces, Nakamura. Kill as many Leaf as you can... Basically a free pass for slaughter… not that I would have need it though." A laugh bubbled out, harsh and insane. "You know what the best part is though? It's the fact that Akatsuki is going to do all us nukenin a favor by destroying all those pesky hidden villages!"
He pulled a kunai with a tag attached to the end and threw it to the ground away from him, seals glowing brightly with chakra and as he pushed Rin back towards Kagome. He mentally apologized as he heard her cry out with shock and worry. A barrier of his own formed around her and Kagome, keeping them in place and flashing white as long lines of Fuinjutsu bloomed beneath her feet. The seal was one of his best pieces of work. A barrier made of multi layered seals and reinforced with ninjutsu and charged with an extensive pool of stored chakra. It'd only go down with a key or if he was dead and that wasn't likely to happen if Kiba could stop it.
The Inuzuka lunged forward with a burst of chakra, one of his katana striking harshly against Nakamura's own blade and the other held in his hand. He glared at the nukenin, wanting nothing more than to rip his throat out.
"Oh, are you angry puppy?" Nakamura laughed, sending the Inuzuka flying across the field and into the barrier with a harsh and well-timed kick, smiling as he heard the other's cry of pain. "You Konoha shinobi are always so self-righteous, thinking yourself above others, above reproach, when even one of your own go against the very ideals your pathetic village stands for. No one goes against that village elder of yours though. Who was it?" The nukenin gave a hum, taking in the sight of the Inuzuka panting with sadistic pleasure and glee. "Shimura Danzo! Now that bastard has a few screws lose! He lured away Orochimaru and corrupted the Akatsuki and god knows what else! A right piece of work, that one."
Kiba couldn't help the shock crossing his face. "W-What?" He couldn't believe what he was hearing. All the information he'd gathered, the dark trails and puzzle pieces suddenly became a clearer and daunting picture. If what Nakamura said was true… "How would you know that?" He asked. "Answer me!"
Nakamura stood across the shinobi, mirth dancing in his eyes and his stance casual, not at all intimidated or worried by the Inuzuka. "You know what I'm talking about don't you? You've uncovered some of it, I can tell." Nakamura raised his blade, pointing it towards the Inuzuka. "Who else would order a clan massacre?" He chuckled, the shadows across his face and eyes shining with bloodlust and insanity.
Behind the barrier, the others could only watch and listen closely as their attacks had no effects on the barrier. It was frustrating to many but they could do nothing.
"Clan massacre?" Kouga said disbelievingly, his mind bringing forth images of his deceased tribe, torn apart by Kagura's winds.
"What in the world…" Miroku muttered, eyes transfixed on the scene before him. "Did you hear what he said? About Inuzuka-san's village? And his comrades?"
Inuyasha gave a low growl, earning a glance from Sango. "It was hard not to."
Sango gritted her teeth, wishing that she could help the Inuzuka but she knew that the fight was beyond her skill as much as it she hated to admit. She saw their speed and the sheer strength behind their attacks and she could only marvel and wonder how it is they gained such power.
Kiba stood strong and resolute, unwilling to waver before his opponent. Nakamura was an S-Ranked nukenin and with a bounty in nearly all the Elemental Countries, each half a million or higher. He was known for his sheer brutality and sadistic and masochistic pleasures, almost on the same level as Hidan of the Akatsuki. Nakamura was strong, scarily so, but Kiba had trained for years and not once had he ever been able to go full out. Now was his chance to see if his training paid off.
The Inuzuka glanced at Rin from the corner of his eyes and he saw her watching fearfully, tears falling down her face and arms wrapped around her legs.
Now… it was time to see if he could truly protect his loved ones. He might end up weaker than Nakamura, maybe or maybe not, but a shinobi was more than just their strength.
Kiba's eyes narrowed and his eyebrows were drawn. "Are you done yet, Nakamura?" He said, sheathing his swords and allowing his chakra to flow through his limbs. "You talk too much."
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed as he sensed the swell of energy. Without turning his gaze, he said, "Miko, play close attention." He ordered, "See the difference for yourself."
Kagome stiffened and her hands curled into fists as she felt her face heat up. He was mocking her, surely. Her glee at the kick that had been delivered to the Inuzuka had startled her but she had pushed the rational voice at the back of her mind away. At Sesshomaru's order, however, her glee had all but dissipated. Had that been her, her bones would have surely shattered.
They had all seen Kiba break the ground beneath him and they had felt the barrier reverberate with quite the force as he hit it.
"How is Inuzuka-sama still standing?" Sango wondered. "I know that he wields different powers but still… to be able to sustain that kind of damage is amazing. If that were me my bones would have been broken ten times over."
The other three demon lords, Akihiko, Itsuki, and Ryoma, glanced towards each other before returning their attention to the fight. They were intrigued and surprised. They had heard part of the feats that the human was capable of but to see it with their own eyes was a different matter.
Meanwhile, Nobuyuki watched attentively, wishing nothing more than to be inside the barrier to assist the Inuzuka. It felt like he was already failing in his promise and it galled him although he knew the Inuzuka to be a capable fighter, the sheer amount of bloodlust had surprised him. As far as he knew, Kiba's opponent, Nakamura, was a human but right now he seemed more like a demon ─ no, a beast ─ lost to the most primal of urges.
Kiba flexed his claws as he took in a deep breath, letting a calm wash over him and allowing his face to be wiped of emotion except for the burning determination in his eyes and cool calculation. The Inuzuka assessed his opponent for a moment, noting the use of his katana and remembering his heavy use of ninjutsu from the battle with Team 8.
Nakamura made an annoyed sound. "Well if you're not going to make the first move then I will." Nakamura surged forward, a blur of speed to the humans watching the fight, and visible to those with demon blood, some more so than others. Nakamura came towards Kiba swiping down with a katana charged with blue chakra to empty air and immedietly spotted him the air, having jumped high to dodge the swipe.
Nakamura narrowed his eyes at the Inuzuka and his free hand sped through one handed seals. "Futon: Shinkugyoku!" (Wind Style: Vacuum Bullet) He breathed in deep and then in the next moment, breathed out several small speeding blasts of compressed air.
Immedietly Kiba contorted in the air as he jumped to avoid the dangerous blasts of wind chakra, grimacing as one of the bullets gauged a track across his armor and grazed his arm, blood immedietly welling and falling.
The others looked in shock.
"No!" Sango breathed, eyes wide in surprise.
"Is that the same energy that Inuzuka uses?" Kouga said in disbelief.
"I thought Inuzuka was the only one," Inuyasha said, "but by the sound of it, Inuzuka didn't expect to see this guy."
The S-Class missing nin didn't miss the damage he'd caused. No, his senses were finely tuned to the other. He was having fun and the only thing he wanted more was the death of the Inuzuka before him. Before, he had something good going for him. He had plans that were easy enough to enact but then this damned Konoha shinobi… No, the Inuzuka was going to die. The decision was final in the insane shinobi's mind. And I'll do whatever it takes, his mind hissed.
Kiba landed on his feet, a hand on his arm as he briefly surveyed the damage that had been wrought. His arm was bleeding slower now but it wasn't an immediate concern unless he managed to kill Nakamura in the least amount of time possible, which was his goal now. Nakamura was older than him, had more experience and maybe had more chakra than him. Not to mention, he was an ranked as an S-Class.
The entire ordeal had Kiba's mind whirling. Who wouldn't? If they were in the Inuzuka's place then they'd understand his apprehension, his hidden fear. He had a lot riding on him, Konoha especially. The information that he had gained…
I need to report to Tsunade-sama… but I can't. Kiba kept his eyes trained on the other. But for now, I need to defeat Nakamura. I can't afford to extend this fight!
"What's the matter puppy?" Nakamura mocked, a grin stretching eerily on his face. "Are you scared? I'm not surprised. Or is it that information that's bothering you? I don't blame you!" Nakamura pushed the hair away from his face in a nonchalant manner. "I mean who knew that Konoha was so dark? That dammed village is constantly spewing out crap about how great it is… but then again, don't all the hidden villages?"
Kiba didn't react to the other's words. He narrowed his eyes, hands tightening ever so slightly on his swords. He took a deep breath and against his instinct and everything taught to him, he closed his eyes.
Seeing this, Nakamura was baffled and then anger was welling in him and rising like a tsunami, encompassing all its wake. How dare he!? He thought. How dare he!?
The Inuzuka's actions could be seen as arrogant, similar to Kakashi and his book but was it really arrogance if he had the power to back his actions and words? No. That was confidence and as much uncertainty Kiba was feeling, he couldn't afford to falter right now.
So with a pulse of chakra, seals on his torso glowed white. Bands of white appeared on his wrists and feet for a few moments and with a sound akin to chains breaking, they snapped. A heavy weight disappeared and the Inuzuka felt lighter than he had in years. Mentally, he thanked Lee for the idea of weights. His swords were still held in his hands and with a slight of adjustment to his grip, he lunged forward and in what seemed like an instant, the Inuzuka was before Nakamura, golden eyes boring into the other and swords locked in a stalemate against the other's.
Nakamura made a sound of surprise and disbelief and he had no time to think as the Inuzuka engaged him a sword fight. The Konoha shinobi's speed was substantially higher and the missing nin actually had to take the other seriously, which angered him greatly. He was a better fighter, he was an S-ranked nukenin and he had to fight this brat? He refused to believe that the other was a threat to him. Refused!
With a growl and rage in his eyes, Nakamura put more power and speed behind his attacks.
The strikes of their weapons caused bright sparks in the air and the clang of weapons rang in the air.
"I can barely see them!" Sango said, amazed, as she squinted her eyes to try to see the fight better. She was trained greatly in her senses as a demon slayer but what was before her was on a different level altogether.
"What I want to know is how Kiba gained such speed…" Kouga said, a thoughtful look on his face and eyes staring intently at the fight before him. It made him reflect on his self, about his own power and he couldn't help but compare himself to the Inuzuka and feel inadequate. He used jewel shards to boost his speed and power but the Inuzuka did so by his own power… Perhaps he could improve on his own too… perhaps he didn't need the shards. Maybe… it's time to get rid of the shards. I can't improve myself if I keep depending on them. Kami knew that he'd need to improve. They all did. I know I can do it, he thought determinedly.
"He gained speed when he broke his bands of… light? Energy?" Miroku observed, trying to concentrate on the fight before him but he was worried for the girls trapped in the barrier. They were trapped but at least they were protected by the Inuzuka's own barrier. "The fight is getting more intense…" Miroku added, sensing the rise of energy and power. It made him worry even more. The amount of malice that was radiating from the Inuzuka's opponent alarmed him. It reminded him of Naraku for a moment.
Inuyasha nodded, eyes narrowed as he followed the fight attentively.
Rin, behind the barrier created by the Inuzuka, couldn't help but whimper and cry. She was afraid and she wanted to get out. She wanted to be beside her Sesshomaru-sama, or even Inuzuka-sama but he was busy fighting for them, protecting them! She tried to gain comfort by getting close to Kagome but the other merely scowled at her, brushing her away without a second thought. Rin whimpered in fear and distress. She tried to calm herself. As young as she was, she still knew that crying helped nothing and no one. So with shaky hands she wiped her tears away, took a deep breath and kept to herself and away from Kagome.
Of course, the actions weren't missed and sharp eyes caught them.
Nakamura snarled as he pushed the Inuzuka away with his sword, grinning crazedly as he sent the other skidding, though the other didn't fall unfortunately. "Oh dearie…" He started, his tone chiding and slightly hysterical. "No, no, no~" He repeated. "That just won't do! No matter what you do Inu-chan you won't win! If you kill me you have no way home!" He laughed, the sound echoing loudly and ominously through the training grounds and making more than one shift uneasily.
The thought hadn't occurred to the Inuzuka. He had thought that he'd need to recreate the events that brought him to this world in the first place however. That was only if there had been a chance of even finding the one who sent him here in the first place and even then, the chances had been infinitely small. He'd gotten lucky this time but what the other was saying… "What?" Kiba said hoarsely, his composure breaking.
"Oh, I lied about what I said earlier." Nakamura grinned, savoring the other's look of disbelief. "I do know a way home, of course, but I was short on chakra and that little stunt you pulled before…" Images of his own attack meeting the other's flashed in his mind. "That messed up my system badly, you little shit. I came here to kill you. But what are I want to know is… are you still going to kill me Inuzuka? Me, your only ticket home?" He mocked.
Kiba didn't say anything for a moment as a cold feeling settled over him because he could tell that the other was telling the truth. This was an S-Class nukenin wanted in many of the Elemental Countries, a man that had nearly killed his comrades, a man that accepted a mission without hesitation on behalf of the Akatsuki. Indecision warred in him but deep down he already knew his choice.
He already made it.
I can't… I c-can't go home. Kiba thought, a feeling of resignation surging in him. But… I just can't let Nakamura go either. He took a deep breath and steeled his resolve. It's for the good of the village, Kiba thought as he remembered what Nakamura's mission was on behalf of the Akatsuki. He couldn't let him go. His friends and family were capable, his generation was strong but even then, he couldn't help but want to protect them. Besides, something tells me that Nakamura would never let me go back alive, no matter what I did. Just remember Kiba, his mind flashed through memories, images of his friends and family smiling and laughing, his people, his great village. Shinobi are ones that endure…
The Inuzuka swallowed heavily, emotions wiped from his face as he stared at the nukenin before him. He didn't say anything. He didn't need to. His actions spoke enough for him.
"Damnit Inuzuka…" Inuyasha muttered, hand on his sword. "What the fuck does he mean about a way home? Is his home really that inaccessible?"
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes, staring pensively at the scene before him. He was displeased that his ward was caught so close in the battle but he knew it was through no fault of anyone. He could care less about the human woman. His instincts were telling him to rip the human male, this Nakamura, apart to pieces and he agreed. Nothing would satisfy him more that to see his blood spill to the ground for his offence against this Sesshomaru.
"Oh, what's wrong puppy?" Nakamura said, laughing once more. "Are you upset? I mean, I guess if I was in your place I would be too. It's not every day one learns about the deep dark secrets of their village and Danzo is certainly a piece of work!~ Then there were those Uchiha. So troublesome with their Curse of Hatred."
Kiba's said nothing. He sheathed his swords away. His chakra readily moved at his command. It circulated through him like blood in his veins, supplying him strength. With a blur of speed, Kiba appeared before the nukenin, interrupting what the other was going to say.
Nakamura saw the fist going towards his face and he thought nothing of the action. There was no way that such an attack would damage him. With a grin, he moved to prepare to intercept the attack but then there was pain, surprise, anger, hate ─
Nakamura was sent hurling back, coughing up blood and he made a sound of pain and anger as he was sent colliding back into his own barrier with a loud bang. He slid down, barely managing to stay on his feet. Anger was clear on his face as he looked towards the Inuzuka who was staring back at him coldly.
The shadows across the Inuzuka's face made him look intimidating and his eyes almost seemed to glow with power.
"What!?" Nakamura snarled, an arm curled around his waist trying to soothe the radiating pain. He had been prepared to intercept the attack but somehow the Inuzuka slipped past his defenses and hit his torso instead. Nononono─ he thought repeatedly, this isn't possible. I refuse to think that this brat is even a threat to me! I'm stronger, better─
"You talk too much, Nakamura." Kiba repeated, but he slid into a stance as he sensed the other's chakra rise in response.
"How dare you!" He hissed. His hands blurred into hand signs. Anger and bloodlust demanded that he kill the other. He wanted nothing more than that and Nakamura agreed. His chakra spiked and then, Nakamura was changing.
Kiba's eyes widened slightly and he nearly growled. There was the sound of bones breaking and the Inuzuka could only watch as Nakamura turned into something akin to a demon. It reminded him of the Sound shinobi that he had fought long ago, of Sakon and Ukon… And Nakamura may as well have been from Sound.
"What?" Kiba said, eyes trained on trained on the black marks spreading from the nukenin's neck. It covered the skin in black and from where he was standing, he could sense the tainted chakra in the other. Nakamura wasn't recognizable anymore. He really did look like Sakon and Ukon with horns and weirdly colored skin and there seemed to be bones protruding from his back.
"You recognize it don't you Inuzuka?" Nakamura said, his voice deeper, grating and distorted. His eerie black eyes stared intently at the Inuzuka, a grin exposing jutting fangs and sharp teeth. "I forgot to mention that I didn't just keep with the Akatsuki." He laughed, low and mocking. "Orochimaru gave me his seal, and he even gave me a few stolen bloodlines too!" He stopped suddenly, staring intently towards the Konoha shinobi. "I'm going to kill you and I'm going to string up your body for your whole village to see." He pointed a clawed finger towards the other. "And then, I'm going to go after that damned clan of yours Inuzuka." He yelled as he lunged towards the other, the ground breaking beneath his feet.
"What!?" Nobuyuki hissed. He was confused as to what happened. How could the human have changed the way he had? It was unlike anything he's ever seen.
"Are you confused?" Haruka said. He's been Nobuyuki's friend for years, along with his mate. He had been there when his friend had fallen and the gratitude that he's felt towards the Inuzuka hadn't abated since then. It was great relief… especially considering that he's very fond of his friend. He'd never admit that. No. The depth of his feelings towards his comrade was something he never liked to dwell on, mostly because it only reminded him of his heartache. "Because I am. This shouldn't have been possible."
"Of course!" Nobuyuki responded. "But what I hate is that I can't help Inuzuka-sama." His eyes were trained on the fight. He wasn't the only one.
Haruka raised an eyebrow, pushing back strands of black hair away from his face. "It is peculiar. I've never seen humans such as them, with their strange powers… The other one, Nakamura, I think? He unsettles me." Haruka said, a frown forming on his face. "His scent is appalling and he feels… wrong." He added.
"Well, at least I wasn't just imagining things then." Nobuyuki said, glancing towards the other with relief. He smiled slightly as he sensed another presence beside him and he immedietly recognized his mate. "Makoto." He said, relief clear in his voice.
"Nobuyuki." He said, a small smile on his face. "Haruka." He greeted the other with a small nod as he gave Nobuyuki a small touch to his elbow, smiling slightly as he felt the other lose some of his tension.
Haruka glanced towards the other for a moment and he felt a pang in his chest. He disregarded the feeling with much practice. "You don't have to worry Nobuyuki. I have a feeling that Inuzuka-sama will win."
"Of that, I have no doubt my friend." But I can tell it won't be easy…
Sesshomaru turned his head slightly, staring at one of his Commanders from the corner of his eye for a moment before turning his focus back to the fight. The intruder reminded the daiyoukai of one of Naraku's many foul creations. He could hardly call the other human. Even its scent had changed.
"My, Sesshomaru, you certainly found yourself one of a kind." Ryoma said. "I can see how it is that he managed to help injure Naraku."
Itsuki nodded. "It's… reassuring to have him on our side though I can see that this fight is challenging to Inuzuka-san. His opponent's energy changed and I can see that whatever damage he had caused before has healed. Add to the fact that he looks older… I'd assume that he has more battle experience than Inuzuka-san"
Nakamura smirked at the Inuzuka as he engaged the other in a battle of taijustu. They exchanged blows and Kiba managed to keep up with the other by taking advantage of his speed. He could tell already that Nakamura's attack has increased in strength and speed, which frustrated him.
Dodging a kick towards his back, the Inuzuka's senses blared with alarm and he instantly jumped back. It was lucky that he did so. A sharp bone jutted out from the nukenin's shoulder, sharp and a bleached white.
"Kekkai Genkai." Kiba muttered as bones that tried to run him through. "Shikotsumyaku." (Dead Bone Pulse) "From the Kahuya Clan, but wasn't Kimimaro the last?"
"You wouldn't believe the trouble that I had to go through to get this!" Nakamura said, dodging a kick towards his head. His hands slammed on the earth, grinning as a forest of sharp bones broke through the earth but he frowned a moment later when he saw the Inuzuka jump in the air and balance himself atop the sharp point of a bone. This brat is just won't die easy, he groused.
Kiba frowned, wondering what the other meant. Inwardly, he hoped that this would be the last of the hidden surprises that Nakamura had but something to told him otherwise. He's so arrogant, talking the way he is and just letting all that information out but the only reason he'd do that is because he understands that no one else would be able to do anything with that information but me, and he definitely intends to kill me. Kiba's eyes narrowed. Nothing is ever easy, is it?
"Oto is actually a great village, hell, you should have seen the villagers! I expected Orochimaru to be a shit Kage but I was surprised when he was actually doing a decent job at running the damn village. Too bad I had to twist his arm a bit to get the damn seal." Nakamura huffed at the memory. That was certainly a fight he'd rather forget. He was S-Class but the damn snake was fucking Sannin. He nearly died that time but holding some villagers hostage as well as stealing a few secrets did the trick, as well as a few underhanded moves, but he never said that he had honor. That shit was for the samurai.
That was the last thing that the Inuzuka expected to hear but he filed the detail away. After all, what was said wouldn't be a stretch of the imagination, especially because no one really knew the Sannin. No one ever gave the man a chance, and then Danzo…
Kiba dodged yet another deadly sharp bone but unfortunately, he wasn't fast enough to dodge another hit as the Kekkei Genkai cut through his torso, gauging his armor, and protruding out his back and at the same time, was sent hurling through the spikes jutting from the ground, breaking through them by the sheer strength and speed behind the attack.
The others gasped and yelled in alarm behind him, standing straighter as many saw the injury that the last attack had caused.
With one hand pressing against his wound and another on the ground to keep his balance, Kiba reprimanded himself for not being able to dodge the last attack. He knew he wasn't going to be able to dodge every attack. It was inevitable because of the sheer amount that Nakamura seemed to produce but the bones were definitely a bastardized version of the genuine Kaguya Clan Kekkei Genkai. The bones were certainly, deadly and fiercely sharp, but the seemed more brittle and easily breakable, which seemed to sacrifice strength for a faster speed.
The Inuzuka couldn't stop a whimper at the feeling of the sharp pain. The bone didn't hit any vital areas but if he removed the bone, there was a chance that he could bleed out but as long as he had the damn thing his movement would remain inhibited, which in this battle, would be a fatal mistake. Healing it with medical ninjutsu wasn't an option either. Any other time, sure, but this battle? No. He wouldn't be given the chance which left one option…
Nakamura smirked, bloodlust ensnaring his senses and a darkness surging through him that made him feel as if he was on the greatest high. Regardless, he still remained sharp and determinedly focused to bring about the death of the damnable Konoha Shinobi and Inuzuka Clan Heir. Oh, just the sight of that precious crimson blood spilling onto the ground had him excited! The things that he could do…
To the side, Inuyasha snarled ferociously, startling Miroku and Sango.
His reaction was notably repeated on behalf of other demons. They could all feel the ever-increasing bloodlust coming from the man that may as well have been an evil entity ─ to compare him to a demon would have been a great insult ─ but they could also smell an underlying scent that was increasing by the second that was startling close to arousal.
It angered them greatly because they could clearly see that the being's intentions weren't good, to say the least.
"That bastard!" Inuyasha growled, clawed hands flexing and golden eyes never once moving away from Kiba's panting form.
"I can't believe…" Kouga started, blue eyes as cold as ice. "I've never seen a human like this before. And I never hope to again." Kouga muttered.
Miroku and Sango exchanged glances, confused. They had immediately noticed the sharp increase of aggravation among the demons but as to why they weren't exactly sure. It was something that the demons could only sense. Miroku attuned it somewhat to the intensifying feeling of the 'humans' malignant aura.
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed in anger of his own. Bloodlust wasn't unfamiliar to him and neither was arousal. Fighting could instill such sentiments in warriors when they were locked in a heated battle that stirred the blood but this different. The other had intentions to harm and to possibly even rape and such horrendous actions were some that even Naraku wouldn't condone. And this Nakamura was conveying his intentions clearly for everyone to see, delighting in their anger and disgust.
Sesshomaru's want for the other's death only increased.
Kiba wasn't unaware of the other's intentions. It seemed that Nakamura wanted him to know for the sole reason of making him apprehensive and uncomfortable and it was working, but still, the Inuzuka was determined to finally end this damnable battle and determined to not give the nukenin the satisfaction of seeing him wane.
With an iron will, Kiba stood slowly and without a moment hesitation removed the now blood red bone.
"Inuzuka-sama!" Rin cried, unable to keep holding her tears at bay. Her tiny hands grasped tightly at her kimono in a crude semblance of comfort, as Kagome had none to offer her it seemed. Her eyes were trained on the blood now welling with a greater ferocity.
Kiba glanced at the little from the corner of his eye for a moment before turning his attention back to the matter at hand. "Don't worry so much Rin." The Inuzuka said, not paying heed to the narrowing of Nakamura's eyes nor his annoyed and anger countenance, "I'll be fine." He said the words with the utmost confidence and without a worry. He knew he'd struggle during this battle. He knew that. But he also knew that he would come out victorious because to lose meant that he'd fail his family, his friends, his village, his Hokage, and that was not something that the Inuzuka would do. He had the Will of Fire surging through his veins and he stemmed from a generation of remarkable shinobi.
At the end, there could be only one standing, and it was going to be him.
The Inzuka swiftly broke the ties that held his armor in place, removing that and his shirt, leaving his torso bare. His skin was stained with blood, littered with so many bruises that it made Sango tear up a bit and gasp softly and made Kohaku hold her hand in comfort. Regardless of all this, the Inuzka stood tall and proud, fuinjutsu etched into his skin in wonderous pieces of art that made more than one stare in amazement and curiosity.
Kiba's hands glowed sharply with chakra, causing Nakamura to tense up for moment only for his eyes to widen a moment later as he placed his hand atop the wound, causing a sort of hissing sound that he didn't understand until he saw smoke winding through the air. The Inuzuka was burning his wound closed.
He did the same to his back, clenching his jaw tightly against the sharp burn and fighting not to flinch. The result was irritated skin shining red that looked very painful, and just by glancing at it, he knew that the skin would scar over but hopefully, with careful healing later he'd be able to minimize the severity.
"Inuzuka-sama…" Nobuyuki murmured, awe and surprise on his face. He'd never would have thought that he'd see such determination in a human but here was Inuzuka-sama displaying feats that he never thought that a human would be capable of, showing characteristics of a great and noble warrior. It only made the urge to protect this human stronger, and glancing towards his mate and dear friend, he could see that his sentiments were beginning to be shared.
Kiba breathed in and out carefully. It was time to end the fight. It had dragged out long enough already. With careful control, he spread his chakra through his limbs. Time to see if I could make Tsunade-sama proud. He rolled his shoulder's lightly and without any words or preamble launched himself towards the nukenin with a punch aimed towards the other.
Nakamura dodged of course, thinking that such attacks were too slow for them to hit only to be met with sharp surprise as the punch tore the ground into great fissures and boulders. The ground shook tremendously, and miraculously, the effects didn't go beyond Nakamura's or Kiba's barriers.
"What?!" Nakamura gasped, standing precociously atop a freed piece of ground. "That style and strength…" He clearly recognized it. "I thought the Hokage only had one apprentice!"
The Inuzuka said nothing, merely engaging in another attack. This time, it was Nakamura who was dodging. Kiba was inwardly thanking himself for placing a barrier seals beforehand. Who knew what would have happened if Naraku would have seen what he was capable of, but even now he hid some of his techniques, which were largely last resort and a few that he was unwilling to use at the moment.
The nukenin noticed straight away that atop of the sheer strength that the Inuzuka had gained, his taijutsu was different from that of the Slug Princess, noticed that there was an added element that he couldn't quite place until a hit glanced his torso and sent him hurtling back with a yell. His skin, tougher now, withheld some but not all of the damage, resulting with another broken rib this time.
Ryoma whistled in lowly in amazement, seeing the sheer devastation that the Inuzuka was capable of. "That strength…"
"How in the world?..." Ituski muttered. "How is it that he gains such speed and strength in the middle of battle?" He wondered aloud.
Kiba's swords slid gracefully back into his hands as the Inuzuka wove through a dance of deadly taijutsu and kenjutsu (kinjutsu?). His swords met Nakamura's bones, which shattered under his blades and served to make Nakamura angry yet again. The Inuzuka was counting on the other's temper to hopefully cloud the other's judgement. His taijutsu was different than that of his Hokage and of what was taught to Sakura because he had wanted to make it unique and wholly his own. So what the Inuzuka did was incorporate a bit of the Inuzuka Clan taijutsu and added an extra boost by adding elemental affinities.
The end result was different styles of fighting, each capable of enormous amounts of devastation and elemental affinities added for which ever was better suited for the style. Water was for flowing movements, which made for great ranged attacks. Lightning was best for speed and sharp attacks. Fire added bonus destruction, leaving the target with burns that made the enemy be on a perpetual defense. Wind was great for offense and defense. Earth had the greatest defensive capabilities and made for slower and heavier hits.
Right now though, he wasn't going to favor one element over another.
Kiba's formed was engulfed with white lightning and he once again gained a boost of speed and he was sending hit after hit towards the nukenin. Most of his attacks missed by a small margin but when the Inuzuka saw a small opening, he took advantage of it immedietly. His fists were engulfed in fire, glowing brilliantly and being so close to the nukenin, he could see the other's eyes widened and he knew that his attack would hit.
And it did, again and again. Burns were left on the other's skin, severe enough to be categorized as second degree burns that he knew would be immensely painful. Each time the other defended, he was met with more burns so Nakamura was forced to retreat and evade.
"He's pushing him back." Haruka observed, intently staring at the battle. It was one of the most intensive fights he's seen in a while.
"Inuzuka-sama…" Miroku murmured, hands tightening on his staff. He couldn't just stand to the side. He needed to at least try to help. Inuyasha and even Sesshomaru couldn't help but perhaps the monk could. He remembered what the Inuzuka had said, about his power being derived from spiritual and physical energies, and perhaps he meant in a different manner than Miroku was thinking of but it was better than nothing. Maybe he could break the barrier? Inuzuka-sama had broken the Beads of Subjugation by overwhelming Kagome's spiritual energy and perhaps he could do the same. He couldn't hope to match Nakamura the way Kiba was but that didn't mean he was weak either.
Miroku sat down, legs crossed and staff resting across his lap. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and immedietly concentrated on the lake well of spiritual energy.
Instantly, Inuyasha and Miroku glanced at the houshi in surprise as they sensed the sharp increase of energy. They backed away from the other wearily, being demons and the other a monk, but incredibly and surprisingly, they weren't repelled away as they thought that they'd be.
Miroku's spiritual energy was immense and it showed. It showed in the royal purple aura that engulfed him like flickering flames. His shakujo chimed softly and continuously as the rings clinked against each other on their own accord, drawing added attention from the others.
Behind him, Kiba could sense the play of energies and the soothing sensation that it provided almost made him smile. He withheld the urge, though. Instead, his chakra surged forward and brought forth a wave of water formed out thin air in long arcs, causing Nakamura to swear as he was suddenly electrocuted as Kiba called forth lightning.
Mentally, he thanked all of his teachers. There's no way he'd even be alive without them.
Nakamura gave a yell of frustration, throwing defense to the wind as he engaged on the offensive without a care to any wounds dealt on behalf of the Inuzuka. Not to mention, he could feel that annoying man in robes attempting to bring down his barrier and it was actually working. The adrenaline coursing through him dampened any of his pain and subsequently made him all the more dangerous. He threw attack after attack, determined to kill the leaf shinobi but anger painted his vision red and his focus wavered, torn between two, and left altogether as he let his pride get the better of him as well.
"I will kill you Inuzuka!" He swore, his chakra swelling and turning an ominous shade of black. The pressure of it shook the earth. Nakamura bared jagged teeth at the Inuzuka, hissing and nearly spitting with his rage.
Bones erupted with a greater ferocity and Kiba had to dodge and repel any attacks that came too close for comfort. He mentally swore in his mind as he gained multiple lacerations across his forearms, chest and back. He wove between the bones and attacks, determined more than ever to kill Nakamura. He pushed his speed to the limit, and for a moment, he contemplated using his Three Crescent Moon Seal before he dismissed the thought. Nakamura wasn't nearly worthy enough. He was strong sure but he wasn't someone that the Inuzuka would call an honored opponent.
Kiba dodged frenzied jutsu that was added to the barrage. He backflipped and ducked fireballs nearly the size of his torso, sweating slightly at the intensive heat. Now's my chance, he thought. Ninja wire was summoned to his hands and he thankful for the blind rage that Nakamura was in as he didn't notice the Inuzuka weaving the wire around the other, preparing a trap, as he danced across the field.
Miroku's spiritual energy was flaring sharper as the monk noticed the feeling of what almost seemed like anticipation and urgency in the Inuzuka's energy. He knew then, that the Inuzuka was preparing his final assault. He pressed harder against the barrier separating them and he intensified his efforts as he sensed a brief waver.
"Keep at it houshi." Inuyasha muttered, hand drawing his sword, eyes trained on the small crack that appeared in the barrier. He added his own efforts as well, sending another round of attacks to aid the other.
Nakamura gave a yell of rage and pain, hands pinned at his sides by the wire and immense pain exploding in his senses as lightning traveled down the wire. His nerves were on fire and it felt like he couldn't even move. Nakamura fell to his knees, panting and glaring at the Inuzuka with immense hate, in disbelief that he was brought to his knees.
It seemed like finally, Nakamura was weakened enough that his seal retreated back into dormancy. His skin and bones shifted once again, leaving a badly injured missing nin.
Kiba could only stare for a moment, tired beyond belief mentally and physically, at the missing nin now lying before him. He couldn't say that he gained a sense of satisfaction or even accomplishment. However, the Inuzuka didn't have a chance to contemplate as Nakamura demanded his attention.
"No, no, no, no!" Nakamura murmurers rose to an incomprehensible yell of rage. "I won't be beaten by Konoha trash!" His eyes were pinpricks of rage and insanity. Chakra swelled forward like searing flames.
"What!" Kiba's golden eyes widen incredulously. "What are you doing!? Using that much chakra…" Kiba yelped as he was sent back from the sheer force of the winds. Kiba grounded himself with chakra, hands held out in front of him to try to protect his eyes from the wind and flying debris… What he saw caused a cold, alarming feeling in him.
Black bands were blooming on Nakamura's skin, winding over his face and disappearing under Nakamura's tattered clothes and reaching to wind over hands and feet. Ink spilled like macabre blood, welling like a pool of darkness.
Kiba recognized them immedietly. He knew that there was no stopping the seals. Frantically, he turned to the others.
"Stop Miroku!" Kiba yelled, his urgency snapping Miroku from hos trance and ceasing Inuyasha's attack. "Get away! It's a Reverse Tetragram Sealing Jutsu! (Ura Shisho Fuin) You need to leave immedietly!" Kiba knew that the barrier's around him weren't going to be enough. No. The seals would draw in anything around them.
"What!" Miroku gasped. "He's using all of his energy!" He turned to the others. "He's aiming for some sort of final attack. We need to get away!"
Inuyasha stared in disbelief. "But Rin and Kagome─" He started but Miroku was already dragging the other away hurriedly.
Other's were retreating hurriedly away, sensing the imminent danger.
"We have to have faith that Inuzuka-sama will be able to protect them! We won't be doing him any favors if we're distracting him!" Miroku said. He hated to leave the two girls behind but he knew that he couldn't break the barrier fast enough even with Inuyasha's help. He knew that if they stayed behind, they'd needlessly face their deaths.
Kagome and Rin… I need to get them out of here! But… How do I get them out in time? The barrier won't fall fast enough… Unless… Kiba's hands flashed through seals at an incredible speed. He bit his palm harshly, bringing blood forth as he slammed them on the ground.
"Kuchiyose: Rashomon!" (Summoning Jutsu: Rashomon) Four immense and intimidating gates were summoned and surrounded Nakamura who was laughing hysterically, finally lost to his insanity, depleting the Inuzuka's chakra greatly.
"Rin!" Sesshomaru snarled, eyes locked onto his ward.
"Damn it!" Ryoma growled.
The wind seemed to increase in speed and strength around them. The air felt heavy and oppressive. The sky seemed to darken and the others could only stare in disbelief as what seemed like a bubble of dark energy formed.
To Kagome it looked like a black hole was forming before her and she felt fear like she's never felt it before. "Get me out of here!" She yelled, hands pounding at the barrier futilely. "Inuyasha, get me out! Get me out, now!" She demanded.
Rin cried, no longer having the strength to keep her tears at bay. "Sesshomaru-sama! Inuzuka-sama!" She cried out, cried out for anyone to help her.
Kiba's hands smeared blood one of his seals and with a puff a smoke a giant scroll was brought forth. "Don't worry Rin," he yelled over his shoulder as he unrolled the immense scroll, almost reminiscent of Konoha's Fuin no Sho (Scroll of Seals) "As long as you're behind that barrier you'll be safe. Trust me."
Rin looked at the Inuzuka with teary eyes and she nodded, placing her trust in the other. Inuzuka-sama hadn't failed her yet.
The un-winded scroll revealed an elaborate seal. It was huge, spanning a great length of the scroll. The seal was yet another one of Kiba's creations. It was designed to suck in ambient chakra, more of a work that was in the testing stage but Kiba was repurposing it. He didn't have a choice but he prayed that it would work.
He placed bloody hands atop the seal and pushed chakra into the seal, carefully and hurriedly. It glowed brightly but then, the Inuzuka's head snapped up as he sensed the ominous chakra reach its peak.
"Oh no." He said softly.
The black hole expanded and retracted, pulsing, before it retreated into a pin point of sphere of black before massively expanding into a circular barrier of black, and then, there was an explosion. It caused more than one to be deafened and gain ringing ears. The force of the blast threw others away but there was a flickering barrier of purple surrounding the field.
Sesshomaru traced its origins to the monk, who held his hands in a sort of prayer position. He was murmuring under his breath and sweat was beading down his face. There was a small thought of gratefulness for the barrier. His palace wouldn't be completely destroyed but he was more concerned with Rin's wellbeing.
Dust clouded the field but the demon lord easily cleared it away with a burst of energy.
What was before them was… indescribable. The training grounds were practically destroyed. The grounds were torn into rubble, with rubble, boulders and debris littering it but that was the least of their concerns.
Nakamura's shield had finally fell and Sesshomaru was the first one searching the field for any trace of life after Miroku lowered his own barrier with a shaky sigh of relief. At first, the demon lord found nothing but his nose and ears caught the signs of life. He followed the signs and came upon a pile of boulders and rubble. He pushed the boulders away easily and there was a feeling of relief that contrasted sharply with his stoic face as he caught sight of Rin and that irritating miko protected by a softly glowing barrier.
"Sesshomaru-sama!" Rin cried out, in happiness and then surprise as the barrier fell a moment later in a shower of light. She didn't hesitate to lunge forward and wrap her arms around Sesshomaru, who didn't bother to move away and in a show of great care, patter her head gently.
The demon lord glared at the miko who seemed caught in disbelief. He dismissed her, turning instead to search the field for the Inuzuka.
"Inuzuka-sama!" Miroku called out, purple eyes searching for any sign of his comrade.
Inuyasha and the others joined in the effort. It didn't take long to find the shinobi though when they caught sight of the other they were struck speechless.
Kiba had survived the blast but his state was less than desirable. He'd gained even more wounds, blood and dirt stuck to him. He was awake, though it took all of his strength to even do that, and he was kneeling on one knee. His hands were clasped tightly around the hilt of one of his katana which was stabbed into the array beneath him that stilled glowed brightly. The Inuzuka was panting and he looked up as he saw the other's approaching. His eyes caught sight of Rin and the relief he felt was immense.
"Oh, good," Kiba breathed, "everyone… is fine…" he said roughly. It seemed like he could finally get his rest and he couldn't stop his world from tuning black. He slumped forward but he never hit the ground, as the last thing he felt was hands cushioning his fall.
-XxX-
Review yeah? I can't say this is a good chapter because I suck at battle scenes but I gave it a shot. There was a liberal use of barriers and fuinjutsu but who gives a shit when everyone's here for the pairing?
