The Rise of a Protector

by The Legendary Dragon Reaper

Wracked with guilt over Goku's death and blessed with a new power from the god of dragons, read as Gohan struggles with life, love, puberty, fulfilling his destiny, and above all, protecting the people he loves and his world. Please read each chapter until the very end and check for authors notes. Gohan x Kagome, OC x Erasa.

8. New Fang, Goraishi, New Barrier

The group were staying in a small hut for the night, while Kagome tended to Inuyasha's injuries.

"You're suggesting that this Kagura woman was born from Naraku?" Gohan summarized

Miroku nodded "I'm saying it's a possibility."

"But that's impossible!" Shippo protested "Naraku's a man! How can a man give birth to a women? Actually, how can a woman give birth anyway?"

Kagome and Sango blushed heavily at this, and led Shippo out of the hut.

Gohan, Miroku and Inuyasha continued their discussion.

Miroku then continued explaining his theory "Naraku himself was created from a host of various demons. What if one of them was torn from his body?"

Gohan nodded "Good point, and it couldn't have been Naraku in disguise. She knew so little about us."

"In any case, whatever her story might be, if she was created from Naraku, then I'm not interested in her."

"Kagura had the same feel of demonic energy that Naraku did, just not as powerful. And the burn scar on her back was exactly like his."

Inuyasha nodded "For a woman, this Kagura person possessed unusual strength, from what Gohan tells me. If Naraku could create someone like her."

"Why wouldn't he have done so before now?"

Miroku nodded "That's the point. It's not that he didn't choose to do it."

"He wasn't able to before, meaning that Naraku has recently become much more powerful."

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In Naraku's castle, he was ordering Kagura to carry out his next strategy for defeating Inuyasha and Gohan, as well as informing her that her sister Kanna had already been dispatched. Kanna was actually the first offspring of Naraku. A young girl with white hair and white clothes, a strange and powerful mirror, but with no emotions.

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Gohan, Inuyasha and Sango were in a marsh, saving a young girl from a beating by several thugs.

"What was their problem?" Inuyasha muttered

"Thank you." said the young girl

"Were they after you?" asked Gohan

The girl nodded "I'm afraid so."

At that moment, Miroku and the others arrived.

The girl's eyes widened as she saw him "Miroku!"

They stopped in surprise.

"It is you, Master Miroku! You've returned!" She happily hugged him "Miroku! How I've missed you!"

Gohan and Inuyasha looked at each other.

"I take it we've met in the past?" Miroku questioned

The girl nodded "I am Koharu."

Miroku stared for a moment before his eyes widened in realization "You don't say? I didn't recognize you!"

"For 3 long years, I've waited."

"Friend of his?" Inuyasha questioned

Gohan shook his head "More than just a friend, judging by how nervous he looks."

"I lost my parents and siblings in the war." explained Koharu "The keeper of the Oil took me under his care, but worked me day and night. I was wary from my duties, and I wept each night. Then, one wonderful day, a kind gesture from Miroku. You happened by our village to perform an exorcism. I was only 11 at the time, and you asked me to have your children."

Everyone backed away in surprise and disgust.

Miroku looked at them "Something wrong?"

Kagome and Sango angrily rushed up to him "You're disgusting! How could you lead an innocent girl on like that?"

"You lecher!"

Koharu looked on, admiration in her eyes "The happiest day of my life."

Kagome and Sango fell over, their faces basically saying 'I give up.'

Kagome glared at Miroku, literally surrounded by fire "You better take responsibility for this!"

Miroku nodded nervously "Would it change matters if I told you I haven't laid a finger on the girl?"

"That seems hard to believe." Sango retorted evenly

"She was still a child."

"That didn't stop you from asking you to bare your children." Gohan snorted.

Koharu continued "Miroku had to take leave of our village shortly afterwards. I knew that one day, he would return for me. I believed it with all my heart. As of late, I noticed the keeper of the Oil's young lord leering at me. My fears were realized last night when he tried to force himself on me."

"Is that why you ran away?"

"I struck him with some firewood until he lay motionless." She looked at Miroku "Please Miroku. Won't you take me with you?"

"Koharu…" Miroku began

"I have nowhere else to go! Besides, I am an adult now. I am able to bare your children."

'She's even younger than me.' Kagome thought to herself 'Things really were different back then.'

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Later, the group was sitting around in front of the hut.

"I hope you understand our position, Miroku." Inuyasha told him "We can't take her with us."

Miroku nodded "I am fully aware."

"But guys," Gohan began "we can't just abandon her. She has nowhere else to go."

"True enough. Perhaps she can join us until we find a suitable family to take her in."

Sango glared at him "At the least. Seeing that it was you who asked her to bare your children."

Miroku put a hand behind his head and grinned sheepishly "Oh, that. I ask the same question every time I meet a new girl."

Sango's glare only intensified "Every girl except one, maybe."

Realizing what she meant, Miroku took Sango's hands in his "Sango, would you consider baring my-"

"Spare me, would ya?!"

"Well, in his defense," Shippo whispered to Gohan and Inuyasha "she did lose her entire family and most of her village when they met. Even he knows when there's a time and a place for stuff like that."

Gohan nodded "Want to make bets that he's a virgin?"

Inuyasha smirked "Duh."

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Kagome was talking with Koharu by a river "So Miroku was the first man you fell in love with?"

Koharu nodded "He is. I've remembered him every day that passed. I knew we'd meet again. And the thought of that helped me through the hard times."

Kagome smiled at this "That's first love."

"I am so happy. So happy I could die."

But little did she know that her wish may soon be granted.

And not in a good way…

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Unknown to her, Kanna was resting in a tree, surrounded by Naraku's Saimyosho, watching Koharu in her mirror.

The plan would soon be put into action.

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Miroku was trying to find a place to take in Koharu.

"Such a pity." said one headman "Poor young child."

"So would you be willing to take this young girl into your village, elder?" asked Miroku hopefully.

The headman smiled "I would be honored. Leave the girl with me, young monk."

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But when Koharu learned of this, she wasn't happy about being separated for Miroku.

"Please!" She begged "I promise not to be a burden!"

"No chance." Inuyasha stated flatly

Gohan nodded in agreement, but he was more compassionate "It would be too dangerous. You have to understand. Miroku's thinking about your best interest."

At that moment, Miroku returned to the group "I've spoken with the headman. Koharu, come with me for a moment, would you?"

Everybody was listening as Miroku had a private conversation with Koharu.

"Miroku, I cannot bare to be parted again after such a short time." Koharu pleaded

Miroku put a comforting hand on your shoulder "Try to understand, Koharu. I cannot guarantee that I would always be able to protect you in times of battle. You see, the demon I pursue is more devious and formidable than any other. Parting like this is difficult for me as well."

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"Does it look like he's setting her straight?" asked Inuyasha

Kagome shook her head "Looks to me like he's seducing her."

Gohan merely snorted "You think everything about Miroku and a woman involves him seducing her."

"Well, can you blame me?"

"Lecher. He's all over the girl." Sango muttered "A parting like that will just make her fall deeper in love." She noticed Inuyasha and Gohan staring at her "Why are you staring?"

"I might just be imagining it Sango, but is there any jealousy going on here?"

Sango's glare intensified "It's your imagination."

The angry fire surrounding her was what drew the line.

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After some convincing, Miroku and Inuyasha agreed to stay one night at the inn.

But when Koharu went to get more firewood for Miroku's bath, things got bad.

Koharu was confronted by Kanna, who sucked out Koharu's soul with her mirror.

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During dinner, Gohan, Inuyasha and Miroku suddenly gripped their weapons, and the atmosphere became serious.

"You guys feel it too?" asked Gohan

Miroku nodded "We're surrounded. I fear the meal Koharu took so much trouble to prepare will go cold."

Inuyasha gripped his sword "Strange that there's no scent of demons in the air, though."

Gohan nodded "I sense something, but it doesn't feel like a demon's energy. Let's go survey the area."

The men exited to find the villagers coming after them with weapons.

Gohan's eyes widened as he saw them "I feel no life energy coming from them."

Miroku nodded "It's like they're under some kind of spell."

The villagers then charged at them, but were quickly subdued rather easily.

Kagome, Shippo and Sango watched the battle from inside, when Koharu informed them that a demon got inside and attacked the headman and his wife.

That was when Kanna appeared.

Sango threw the Hiraikotsu at Kanna, but she used her mirror to reflect it and send it flying back at her.

Kanna and the possessed Koharu then attempted to suck Kagome's soul out of her body…

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Gohan and the others weren't getting anywhere with the villagers.

"You fools are so pathetic!" said a voice.

They turned to see Kagura standing a short distance away from them "You would've done well to slay them all. That way, they wouldn't keep coming after you. Then again, I suppose that if you were capable of slaying them, you would've already done so."

"Are you the one who possessed these villagers?" Gohan snarled

"I am. A mortal with no soul is no different from a dead man. Your friend Kagome is having her soul sucked out of her, even as we speak."

Gohan's eyes widened before he they narrowed and his serious mode kicked in "Inuyasha, can you handle these guys?"

He nodded, and Gohan and Miroku took off, leaving Inuyasha to deal with Kagura, Wind Scar against Wind Sorceress.

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Using his enhanced speed, Gohan race back to the house as fast as he could, while he had a conversation with Zalama in his mind 'Zalama, what did Kagura mean by having their souls sucked out?'

'I've heard of this. Some demons have the ability to use demon mirrors to steal people's souls, and reflect their attacks back at them. The only way to destroy the mirror is with strong enough spiritual powers.' Zalama explained 'Fortunately, I have an attack that can help you with that: the Dragon Flash.'

'Hold on a minute. How can you have sacred powers?'

'I suppose I should tell you now. I'm actually a god. I'm the creator of the first original set of Dragon Balls.'

'You mean the ones on Planet Namek?'

'Even more ancient than that, but that's for another time. Anyway, the elemental attacks of the Ryuuga are made by my demon and sacred powers counterbalancing each other. It relates to the properties of Yin and Yang, or darkness and light. The Dragon Flash, which comes from the Yang property, is made purely from spiritual power, while its counterpart, the Dragon Shadow of Yin, or darkness, is made solely from my demonic powers. Because of the sacred properties of the Dragon Flash, it will allow you to purify the demon's mirror, freeing the trapped souls, and restoring those people to normal.'

'Perfect. I know I can do this. How powerful are the Dragon Flash and Dragon Shadow?'

'At least 3 times as powerful as the 5 elemental attacks you already have, and Inuyasha's Wind Scar. Now, go save the woman you love.'

'You can bet on it. I've got to channel the Eye of the Tiger.'

'God dammit! Stop singing that song in your head all the time!'

'Hey! My head, my rules! You don't like it, go live in Miroku's head!'

'Don't even joke about that! If there's one thing I can't stand, it's sacred perverts!'

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Miroku entered the house and found Koharu unconscious "Koharu! Say something! Koharu!"

Slowly, Koharu opened her eyes and embraced him "Miroku, it was horrible!"

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Shippo regained consciousness and found Kanna sucking out Kagome's soul. He tried to stop her, but was sent back by an invisible force.

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Koharu, still possessed by Kanna, was hiding a knife behind Miroku's back.

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Gohan smashed through the wall and found Sango and Shippo unconscious, and Kanna sucking Kagome's soul out with mirror.

"How strange." Kanna mused "I cannot subdue her soul. Still, you are unable to move, are you not? I desire the shards of the sacred jewel that you possess. Give it to me."

Kagome, despite being weakened, was able to prepare to shoot an arrow.

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Miroku stopped Koharu from bringing down the knife, and quickly knocked her out.

Gohan arrived and stopped Kanna from attempting to suck out Kagome's soul again. Kanna then fled afterwards.

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Inuyasha was forced onto the defensive by Kagura's relentless attacks, and wasn't able to use the Wind Scar to its fullest extent, since to his injuries from the battle with Koga still hadn't completely healed yet. Inuyasha tried to attack with the Wind Scar, but was severely injured even further when Kanna reflected it back at him with her mirror.

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Gohan quickly arrived on the scene and left the injured Inuyasha with Miroku, before confronting Kagura and Kanna himself "You got another lackey to do your dirty work, Kagura?"

Kagura merely smirked at him "Draw your sword, Son Gohan. We shall settle this."

"Gladly, witch. We settle this! Dragon Flash!" a large, purely white demonic dragon shot out from the blade, and Kanna found herself unable to reflect it.

The attack struck the mirror, destroying it, and freeing the souls from the mirror. At that moment, a massive cyclone formed in the sky, and descended towards the ground. When it disappeared, he stepped out.

Gohan's eyes widened at this "Naraku…"

Naraku merely smirked at him "I must say, Son Gohan, that was quite an impressive display."

"Why are you here?" Gohan snarled

"I came to ask in person what it felt like to have your own power turned against you, and very easily I might add."

An angry Miroku stepped forward "I am indeed honored by your presence, Naraku. I rather expected a demon puppet. You are a coward who never sullies his own hands, and only knows how to lay traps. You must've been falsely confident, or you wouldn't dare show your face." he grabbed the prayer beads on his arm.

"The Wind Tunnel. You are free to draw anything into your void. But surely, even you would not be that foolish monk. My course of action was simple. I created Wind and Void as incarnations of myself, and yet witness the damage I was able to inflict."

Gohan's eyes widened and he looked at Miroku "So we were right. If he's capable of something like this, he must've gotten way more powerful. We already fought Kagura beforehand, and this other, Kanna, is apparently void, explaining why we couldn't sense any evil from her."

Kagura merely smirked "Have we not spoken long enough? Shall we take Inuyasha's head with us as a trophy?" She noticed Naraku staring at her "No? Did you not want to tell that woman that Inuyasha had been slain? I was under the impression that this is what you desired."

Naraku nodded "True enough, it was only through her cooperation that I was able to create you and Kanna. What emotions would rise on her face if I showed her Inuyasha's head, I wonder." he pulled from his robe a nearly complete Shikon jewel, shocking Gohan and Miroku "You suggested earlier that I do everything to avoid sullying my own hands. Even the mightiest are inferior to someone. A woman attempted to use me so that I would murder Inuyasha for her."

Gohan looked in confusion for a moment, before his eyes widened and he felt his blood run cold "You don't mean."

Naraku chuckled "She is some piece of work, that Kikyo. Kikyo personally handed this sacred jewel shard to me of her own free will."

Kagura raised her fan "She wishes to gaze upon your face, after you're good and dead!" And he attempted to attack them using her Wind powers, but the combined powers of Son Gohan's Dragon Flash and Kagome's arrow cancelled out her powers, and damaged her fan.

Naraku then spoke to them "Pass this message on to Inuyasha. If he must hate someone, then hate Kikyo. For the only thing she desires is Inuyasha's death." And with that, he departed, Kagura and Kanna following soon after kicking up several rocks to block Miroku's Wind Tunnel.

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Morning came, and everyone departed from the village.

Shippo was getting aggravated by the sour mood.

"Kagome, how's Inuyasha doing?" asked Son Gohan

"The herbal remedies seem to be helping." replied Kagome "His fever dropped and he's asleep now. I'm going to look for some more herbs. You wanna come, Gohan?"

"Take Shippo and Kilala. They're the only ones with enough energy. I've got something I need to take care of." he took off at high speeds, leaving the others to wonder what he meant.

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Gohan entered a forest, feeling out the energy he was feeling. As he went further, he felt a strong energy growing.

When he got to the center of the forest, he found her.

Kikyo.

The undead priestess looked at him blankly "May I help you?"

Gohan bowed slightly "You know why I am here, Lady Kikyo."

"You wish to know why I handed the sacred jewel shard I stole from Kagome over to Naraku."

Gohan nodded.

Kikyo sighed, appearing a bit aggravated "I suppose I should tell you. As you know, a jewel shard can be either purified or defiled, depending on the heart of the one who possesses it. In Naraku's hands, the jewel will continue to become more and more defiled. But if even one speck of purity remains, when he assembles all the shards, he, along with the jewel, will immediately be purified, destroying him once and for all."

"So you plan to have Naraku gather all the shard, so you can purify him and destroy him?"

"Correct."

Gohan remembered something else "But there's something else I've been wondering about. Kagome's grandfather told me something about the jewel once. He said that when the person who obtains the jewel makes the one and only correct wish, then the jewel will be purified, and disappear from this world forever."

"And you want to know what the one and only correct wish is?"

Gohan nodded.

"I'm sorry, but I do not know what it is. Tell me, Son Gohan, what do you plan to wish for on the jewel?"

"I plan to use the power of the jewel to revive everyone that has died because of Naraku's actions. That would include Sango's village, Koga's wolf demons comrades, others that have been slain because of his crimes, and possibly you."

Kikyo looked at him, surprise appearing on her usually stoic face "But, how?"

Gohan shrugged "I'm sure Ryu would work something out."

'Hey! I'm a demon-priestess hybrid, not a miracle worker!'

Kikyo smiled sincerely for the first time in ages "You have my sincerest gratitude, Son Gohan. Thank you. You should leave now. My reincarnation must be worried. But first, how is Inuyasha doing?"

Gohan shook his head "Thanks to the jewel shards you gave him, Naraku is capable of creating incarnations from his own flesh. One of these, Kagura of the Wind, slaughtered at least 100 members of the wolf-demon tribe. But on the bright side, Koga, the leader of the wolf-demon tribe, is on our side now. But another one, Kanna of the void, used her demon mirror to send Inuyasha's Wind Scar flying back at him. He'd probably be dead if it wasn't for his robe of the fire rat, but he's still hurt pretty bad. Kagome's actually out looking for herbs for him right now."

"I see. And may I ask you not to tell Inuyasha about this?"

Gohan stared at her for a moment, but nodded "I understand."

"Thank you." and with that, Kikyo left without a word.

Not long after her conversation with Gohan, Kikyo was confronted by Naraku, who told her the exact thing Gohan had told her before disappearing.

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A few days went by, and Inuyasha was still recovering, and was trying to figure out why Kikyo had given Naraku the jewel shards.

Then Gohan came in "Are you in pain? Sango's hurt too, even though she's trying to brush it off."

Inuyasha answered that question with his own "Where's Kagome?"

"She and Miroku went to get some food and herbs."

They then noticed Sango wince out of pain in her sleep.

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Gohan and Shippo went out to get some water.

Inuyasha was approached by soul collectors, and despite his injuries, tried to go see her, to Shippo's protests.

Inuyasha tried to make his way, but collapsed from his injuries.

Kikyo, who was watching from a nearby tree, saw this and called out to him "Inuyasha. You're still alive, I see. Son Gohan was right. I'm glad."

Gohan made his way down the cliff and found the two of them in the middle of their conversation "You know, Lady Kikyo, if you wanted to tell him yourself, you could've just said so."

Inuyasha snapped his head towards Gohan "You knew about this?"

Gohan nodded "I found her a few day ago, and questioned her about giving the shards to Naraku."

Unknown to the three of them, Kagura was listening in, having been ordered by Naraku to spy on Kikyo.

Deciding to kill the three of them while she had the chance, Kagura raised her fan, but Kikyo retaliated by launching an arrow at her.

Seeing that she was outmatched, Kagura fled.

Kikyo then turned to the other two "Son Gohan, you must not allow Naraku to kill Inuyasha, at any cost." and with that, she disappeared with her soul collectors.

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Kagome, Miroku and Shippo were searching for the two of them, when they came across Gohan helping an injured Inuyasha.

"Was it Kikyo?" was all Kagome asked

Inuyasha nodded mutely.

Gohan was more clear about it "Naraku wasn't lying."

"So it's true." Miroku butted in "She made a pact with Naraku."

"Never!" Inuyasha barked

Gohan nodded in agreement "Lady Kikyo's plan is to purify the jewel, along with Naraku, when he gathers all the shards."

Kagome left without a word.

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A village was under attack by Goshinki, Naraku's newest and most dangerous incarnation. Goshinki devoured both people and animals I his assault.

Kagura watched from nearby 'That demon is pathetic. Nothing more than a brainless glutton.'

Goshinki turned and glared at her "Sister, you were just thinking that I am no more than a brainless glutton, weren't you?"

Kagura blankly stared at him 'He's toying with me. This demon is able to read my mind.'

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Kagome and Gohan were tending to Inuyasha and Sango's injuries.

Inuyasha's eyes suddenly widened.

"What is it?" asked Gohan

All Inuyasha said was "The scent of a dead man."

They exited the hut to find a wounded man weakly walking towards them "A demon has come! It devoured the entire village! On its back was the mark of a spider."

Gohan's eyes narrowed 'Another one of Naraku's incarnations.'

"Please… Help us…" The man got out before he turned into a charred corpse and collapsed.

Gohan turned to Miroku "Let's go."

They departed to the village, with Kagome taking care of Sango.

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In the village, Goshinki was devouring several more animals.

"It's just a few children. Let them go." Kagura told him

Goshinki shook his head "Naraku commanded me to devour the entire village. So I will kill every last human, and every single cow, chicken and horse."

Kagura simply hmph ed "Do as you wish. I can't bare your company any longer."

Goshinki sensed two children hiding in a nearby barn, and was about to devour them, but he was cut off by a slash from Gohan and the Ryuuga, followed by a Dragon Shockwave.

Inuyasha then landed shortly after and turned to the kids "Get out of here!" They wasted no time.

"You must be Naraku's latest? Am I right?" asked Gohan

Goshinki smirked "You thinking I dodged the Tessaiga. You are surprised by my speed despite my enormous size." He then turned to Gohan "And you're thinking several profanities, because you realized that I know what you're both thinking. Just as you suspect. I am able to read the minds of others, Inuyasha and Son Gohan. My sisters, Kagura and Kanna, were merely the opening acts. Now Goshinki makes his debut."

Having heard enough, Inuyasha leapt at him with the Tessaiga, but Goshinki dodge the sword with ease, before leaping at them himself, which they both dodged with ease.

"I know every thought that crosses your minds." Goshinki taunted "You seem to be suffering greatly, don't you? You fear this might be the end of you."

Inuyasha slowly rose "Not very likely. I'm getting tired of you."

Gohan and Inuyasha both charged at Goshinki, who dodged with ease "I can predict every move before you make it!" he sent them both reeling.

Inuyasha crashed to the ground, but Gohan caught his footing "Miroku, don't use your Wind Tunnel! I can see Naraku's poisonous insects heading this way!"

Miroku, who was about to use his Wind Tunnel, nodded and removed his hand from the prayer beads.

Slowly, Inuyasha rose once again, ignoring the taunts from Goshinki, and prepared to use the Wind Scar.

"Inuyasha, you're trying to use the Wind Scar and blast me away, are you not?" Goshinki taunted.

Inuyasha leapt at Goshinki, who cast away the Wind Scar. Not willing to give up so easily, Inuyasha swung the Tessaiga at Goshinki, who caught the sword in his teeth.

Gohan watched the scene, but what happened next made his blood run cold.

Goshinki bit the Tessaiga in half, before wounding Inuyasha further with his mighty claws.

Gohan, having no choice, decided to act ' Zalama, it's time. I have to use the Dragon Shadow.'

'Very well. I must say though, I never expected the demon to break the Tessaiga in half. Anyway, the Dragon Shadow involves charging up an enormous mass of pure demonic energy. Gohan, be careful.'

'Right.'

Gohan raised the Ryuuga, which was now coated with pure black demonic energy "This ends now, Goshinki! You can't dodge this, now matter how fast you are! Dragon Shadow!" a pure black demonic dragon shot out, engulfing Goshinki, before he collapsed to the ground, dead.

His corpse fell to the ground, before it was shredded by Inuyasha, whose eyes were a pure Crimson, with purple marks staining his cheeks.

"Burn in hell, you filth." Inuyasha spat, his voice now deep and hoarse "I enjoyed that."

Gohan looked at him in slight fear and concern "Inuyasha, what's wrong with you?"

"Stay back!" he shouted "I can't say what I'm going to do next! I don't know what's happened, but I don't think I can't control it!"

"Inuyasha, sit."

CRASH!

Inuyasha rose, back to normal, but angry "Will you people stop doing that!"

Gohan had to chuckle "Despite the circumstances, that never stops being funny." then he turned serious "What happened to you back then?"

Inuyasha shook his head and looked at the broken Tessaiga "I have absolutely no idea."

Gohan knew who to see about this.

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Things were taking a serious turn.

A little while later, the remains of Goshinki was found by Sesshomaru, Jaken, and his new companion Rin, an orphaned girl he saved when her village was attacked by Koga's wolves a few weeks before.

But what really baffled Sesshomaru was the fact that on Goshinki's corpse, Inuyasha's blood smelled like that of a full demon.

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The group was camping out by a river after the battle with Goshinki.

Gohan and Inuyasha were talking about what to do about the broken Tessaiga.

"What exactly did you feel happen to you?" asked Gohan

Inuyasha just shook his head "After the Tessaiga was bitten in two by Goshinki, I was certain I was going to die. Then my entire body suddenly started burning with a desire to live. Next thing I knew, Goshinki's body was in pieces. Then I felt something strange. Something I'd never felt before. Pure pleasure from destroying the body."

At that moment, the sky turned pitch black, and out from a bolt of lightning appeared stood Totosai's three-eyed demon cow.

Myoga then leapt onto Inuyasha's nose "Master Inuyasha, what happened to Tessaiga?"

"A demon called Goshinki bit it in half." explained Gohan "Is there any way to fix it?"

Myoga nodded "Take it to Totosai. He'll be able to fix it in no time."

"I'm coming too." said Gohan "I want to talk to Totosai about some stuff."

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All that could be heard from miles around from Totosai's home was the sound of an old man sobbing.

"Only a simpleton would allow this to happen!" Totosai sobbed upon seeing the broken sword that lay in front of him "What has this fool done to you, my precious Tessaiga!"

"Can you fix it or not?" Inuyasha barked

"Of course I can." Totosai replied easily as he examined the Tessaiga "I am a master swordsmith. I can repair it within 3 days. But I'll require something to bond it."

"Like what?" asked Gohan

Totosai held up a set of medieval pliers away from them "Open up for me, would you Inuyasha?"

Inuyasha opened his mouth wide "How's this?"

RIP!

Now all that could be heard was Inuyasha's screams, due to having his tooth ripped out.

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Sesshomaru stopped and chuckled at Inuyasha's pain, much to the confusion of Rin and fear of Jaken.

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Totosai looked at the fang he ripped out "Well, this fang will have to do."

Inuyasha angrily hit Totosai over the head "What was that for?!"

"Quit whining!" Totosai shouted as a comically large bump appeared on his head "Your tooth will grow back in a mere half a day!"

Inuyasha nodded "Good. You're getting to be a real pain in the neck old man. You've got 3 days to fix my sword."

"Why only 3 days?" asked Totosai

"Because that's how long you said it would take to fix it." Inuyasha ground out "I'm counting on you old man. Gohan, you coming?"

Gohan nodded "In a minute. Wait by the bull."

After Inuyasha left, Gohan turned to Totosai "Alright, I want answers."

Totosai guessed what he meant "You mean about Inuyasha's transformation when the Tessaiga broke?"

"Yes."

Totosai began to explain the situation "As I'm sure you know, Tessaiga is an heirloom left to Inuyasha by his father. The sword protects him from his enemies, but it has a second purpose. Keeping the demon inside at bay. Inuyasha's death is inevitable once the Tessaiga is broken. His strong desire to live awakened the demon blood coursing through his veins. Even after I repair the Tessaiga, Inuyasha's demon blood will be even harder to control, because he has now tasted the pleasure of brutally slaying an enemy. Gohan, you must make sure the demon inside him doesn't awaken. If it does, Inuyasha will eventually be fully consumed."

Gohan nodded "I don't plan on letting that happen."

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Sesshomaru visited Kaijinbo, a former apprentice to Totosai, in order to convince him to forge a sword from the fang of Goshinki.

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The night before Tessaiga was fixed was the night Inuyasha was at his weakest. The night of the new moon.

Once a month, during the new moon, Inuyasha would lose his demon powers and become human.

Inuyasha was gazing at the stars when Kagome offered him a soda, which he accepted "So, how are things going with Gohan?"

At the mention of his name, Kagome's cheeks turned pink and she looked in the direction of Gohan, who was in the middle of his evening meditation "Well… Inuyasha, can I trust you not to tell this to Gohan?"

Inuyasha nodded "Go ahead."

Kagome sighed "Ever since we first came to the Feudal Era, I think I've been starting to develop feelings for Gohan."

"Took you long enough."

Kagome ignored him and continued "And after the whole incident with Koga, I've been doing a lot of thinking. And now, I've realized what all this means. I'm in love with Gohan."

"Why don't you just tell him? He'll be thrilled."

"I was going to, but something he said once stopped me. I overheard him saying that it wouldn't be right to be in a relationship while we're hunting down Naraku. He said he wanted to wait until after Naraku's dead."

"I can see the logic behind that. Look Kagome, just act like nothing's different. At least for now."

Kagome smiled "Thanks, Inuyasha. I needed that."

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Jaken went to claim the sword from Kaijinbo… only for the deranged swordsmith to cleave him in two with the blade, named the Tokijin. Possessed by the hatred infused into the fangs, Kaijinbo set out to kill Gohan and Inuyasha. Not long after, Sesshomaru came and found Jaken sliced in half.

Knowing that Kaijinbo was responsible, Sesshomaru resurrected Jaken using the Tenseiga.

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Gohan finished his meditation and looked in a certain direction "I'm sensing a powerful evil aura, heading this way."

Sure enough, at that moment, Kaijinbo appeared, Tokijin in hand, thirsty for blood "Which ones are Inuyasha and Son Gohan?"

"Who wants to know?" Inuyasha snorted

Kaijinbo chuckled "My name is Kaijinbo. I'm a swordsmith. I forged this sword, the Tokijin, and now it cries for a taste of your blood. Tokijin was forged from the fang of the demon that broke your Tessaiga, the sword created by lord Totosai."

Hearing this, Inuyasha's eyes widened 'He's using the fang of Goshinki, the same demon that bit my sword in half?'

"In other words, the sword is filled with the hatred Goshinki had for you two." Sango summarized "Gohan for killing him, and Inuyasha for destroying his body."

Gohan drew the Ryuuga "Inuyasha, stay back. I've got this."

Sango tried to defeat him with the Hiraikotsu, but the Tokijin cleaved it in two.

Miroku then tried to use his sacred powers to defeat him, but the evil energy of the Tokijin proved to be too powerful.

Seeing this, Gohan charged in and clashed with Kaijinbo, the Ryuuga and the Tokijin.

But even Gohan, who was still wounded from the battles with Naraku's incarnations, proved to be little match against Tokijin.

Just as Kaijinbo prepared to bring the sword down, a flash of light appeared, and Totosai and his bull emerged from it "I should've know you two had something to do with this commotion."

Not wasting any time, Inuyasha took the Tessaiga.

During this, Totosai and Kaijinbo had a bitter reunion.

Inuyasha was ready to clash with Kaijinbo, just as the sun rose, and his demon powers returned. Tessaiga transformed… Before the blade crashed to the ground "Hey Totosai, what the hell did you so to my sword?"

"What's the problem?" asked Gohan

"What the hell do you think? The sword's too damn heavy!"

Kaijinbo prepared to charge, Inuyasha barely able to lift it up enough to clash with the Tokijin.

Kaijinbo prepared to finish off Inuyasha, when suddenly, he burst into flames, leaving nothing but the Tokijin behind.

"The sword held up." explained Totosai "But Kaijinbo himself was unable to withstand its power. The very sword he forged overpowered him. The wretched fool deserved it."

Inuyasha, tired and thorough angry, resheathed the Tessaiga and angrily marched up to the old man "Totosai, I want to talk to you! How in the hell am I supposed to carry around such a heavy sword? One thrust and I need to stop and rest!"

"Do you wish to know how to handle this new heavy Tessaiga?"

Inuyasha stared at him for a moment "You're not gonna say that the answer is building up my own strength, are you?"

Totosai began sweating bullets.

SMACK!

"I should've known!"

"In the meantime, what do we about this thing?" asked Gohan, referring to the Tokijin.

Totosai and Miroku were unable to extract the sword, due to its evil aura.

Inuyasha tried to smash it to bits with the Tessaiga, but the evil aura protected it.

Unknown to them, Kagura was watching the whole affair from afar.

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Rin was waiting for Sesshomaru and Jaken to return. Upon seeing him, she happily ran to him, before Sesshomaru stopped her "Stop, Rin. Don't move."

Rin froze in place.

Sesshomaru confronted the presence watching them, which happened to be Kagura "I recall your scent. It is the same as the beast who attempted to trap me. The one known as Naraku."

Kagura smirked "You must be Inuyasha's older brother, Sesshomaru. You're very clever. I am Kagura, the wind sorceress, an incarnation of Naraku. Sesshomaru, the fang you delivered to Kaijinbo to make your sword was that of a demon called Goshinki. Like me, he was created from Naraku."

"All very interesting." Sesshomaru replied stoically "But did you search me out to simply tell me this?"

Kagura chuckled lightly "Can you not detect it's scent? Tokijin reeks of the aura of Goshinki. It is closer than you think. You are the sword's rightful owner." And with that, she disappeared.

"I'm not sorry to see her leave so soon." Jaken muttered "I don't believe I've ever seen such an arrogant woman."

Sesshomaru stared in the direction she left in for a moment, before turning around "Rin, you're free to move now."

Rin began stretching happily.

"The Tokijin." Sesshomaru mused

"Speaking of strange women." Jaken muttered as he watched Rin.

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Inuyasha, Gohan and the others were watching over the Tokijin.

Dark could see began looming over head.

From them, emerged Sesshomaru, who leapt down and stood near the Tokijin.

Gohan bowed slightly out of respect "Lord Sesshomaru."

Sesshomaru nodded "I see you've awakened the Yin and Yang properties of the Ryuuga, Son Gohan."

"I have. What brings you here?"

"I have come for the sword." Sesshomaru explained "It seems the demon you two killed was so bitter, it desired revenge, even after its remains were forged into a sword."

"So, you ordered Kaijinbo to forge it?"

Sesshomaru nodded, and then drew the Tokijin, the evil aura of the sword being overtaken by his own "Son Gohan, draw your sword. I wish to see your progress."

Gohan drew the Ryuuga "If you say so." And he charged.

"Son Gohan, I must ask of you." Sesshomaru told him as they clashed "Do not interfere when I fight Inuyasha. There is something I wish to verify."

"I understand." he broke away "Inuyasha, you've got this?"

Inuyasha nodded, drew the Tessaiga, and clashed with the Tokijin.

"Tessaiga has become heavier, I see." Sesshomaru observed

"It's a lot heavier, you stupid jackass." Inuyasha snapped at him.

Sesshomaru ignored the question and slashed with the Tokijin, causing Inuyasha to lose his grip on the Tessaiga, sending the sword flying out of his hands, and he was sent crashing to the ground.

Not having any options, Inuyasha charged at Sesshomaru, who easily repelled him with the Tokijin's raw power.

Sesshomaru charged in prepared to end it, but slowed his charge when he felt something 'That scent again!"

Inuyasha had transformed.

Seeing this, Totosai used his power to create a ring of fire around Sesshomaru

"Kagome now!" shouted Miroku

"Sit!" Kagome shouted, and they dragged away the unconscious Inuyasha, Gohan staying behind for a moment.

Gohan quickly dissipated the flames using the Dragon Tsunami "I take it you saw what you needed to see?"

Sesshomaru nodded "I did. To think that he made me, Sesshomaru, tremble with fear for even a moment. What was that transformation?'

Unknown to them, Kagura was watching from afar 'He's strong. He might be able to kill Naraku.'

Gohan parted ways with Sesshomaru, and returned to Kagome and the others, the chills still deep in his blood.

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The group was passing by a mountain after their encounter with Sesshomaru.

Suddenly, Kagome's eyes widened "I can sense 2 jewel shards coming fast."

Inuyasha began growling "I smell the reek of wolf."

Gohan smirked "He's back."

At that moment, a whirlwind appeared, revealing Koga "Yo! I picked up on your scent, Kagome, so I thought I'd come see how you're doing. Hey, Gohan. Taking good care of her?"

Gohan smirked and bumped fists with him "You know it. So what's up?"

Koga then turned serious "Right. Time to get down to business."

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Gohan raised an eyebrow "You want us to tell you where Naraku lives? Koga, if we knew that, we wouldn't be wasting so much time dealing with his incarnations and other crap."

Inuyasha nodded "It's almost impossible to find. Naraku projected a barrier around his castle. Let us avenge the deaths of your comrades. All I ask is that you hand over the jewel shards in your legs." he drew the Tessaiga, intending to bring it down on Koga's head.

Koga dodged it easily and sent Inuyasha flying into the mountainside with a jaw-shattering punch to the face "You're swinging that sword awfully slow, mutt. Oh, and thanks for the Ryu scale, Gohan. This thing is awesome!"

Gohan smirked "I know, right?"

"Come back here and fight!" Inuyasha snarled as he emerged from the mountain

Koga smirked as he walked away "Sorry dog-breath, but I don't have any time to waist sparring with you. Take care of Kagome while I go slaughter Naraku, Gohan. Later." he disappeared in a whirlwind, much to Inuyasha's fury.

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Nightfall came. Koga noticed a swarm of Saimyosho, and followed after them, detecting the same scent as Kagura.

He came across Naraku riding a horse while pulling a large cage behind it "The young leader of the wolf-demon tribe. You detected me even before Son Gohan or Inuyasha."

Koga's eyes widened in fury "I know you. You're Naraku! You scent is identical to Kagura! You slaughtered my comrades! And now, I will avenge their deaths!"

Naraku merely chuckled "Pity for you, but I'm afraid you shall become fodder for my new incarnation.

Koga raised an eyebrow "A cage? I don't know what kind of beast you brought, but the timing couldn't be better. I'll gladly get revenge for my men!"

Naraku smirked under his mask "Koga, meet your opponent. Emerge from your cage, Juromaru!" And the cage opened, revealing a purple-haired figure, shackled and wearing a mask.

Koga smirked "Have it your way, Naraku! I'll take him out first! Then I'll smash you both into the ground! What's the holdup? Hurry up and release his shackled so I can get my hands on him!"

Naraku shook his head "He'll be enough of a challenge for you just as he is."

Koga just growled "Fine, but it's his funeral!" he charged, but Juromaru dodged all of his attacks easily 'He's fast. Maybe even faster than me. Wait. What's that chill in the air? It's coming from the bit in his mouth.'

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Gohan and Inuyasha had detected Naraku's presence, and were quickly racing to the scene.

They found Koga running away from Juromaru, who easily sidestepped Gohan attacks.

At that moment, Naraku appeared "You've finally showed up, Inuyasha, Son Gohan. Koga must've fled when he saw that he had no chance of victory. He's more intelligent than I thought."

Inuyasha scoffed "Who cares about the wolf? I'm in a different class altogether."

At that moment, Naraku freed Juromaru of his mask and shackles. Almost immediately after, however, Juromaru severed the head of Naraku's puppet.

With his advanced speed, Juromaru easily outmatched both Gohan and Inuyasha.

Suddenly, Gohan was pierced from behind by a ray of light, which then reappeared next to Juromaru, and took the form of a small, spider-like creature.

Or, as summed up by Miroku: "What the hell is that thing?"

"Thanks for the meal." it said "Your innards were simply delicious. I am Kageromaru. I have been lying dormant inside Juromaru's belly. Juromaru obeys no one but me, not even Naraku. Now, let's feast on the others, shall we Juromaru?"

Kageromaru proved to be even faster than Juromaru, and stronger too.

Not only that, but he dodged the path of Miroku's Wind Tunnel.

Gohan then noticed Kageromaru appear behind Kagome, preparing to devour her.

At that moment, Koga returned, after being informed by Ginta and Hakkaku that Kagome was in danger as well, and kicked away Kageromaru before he could hurt her "Kagome, are you alright?"

Kagome nodded "Where'd you come from?"

Gohan rephrased her question "Where the **** have you been?"

Koga ignored the question when he noticed Kageromaru "What the **** is that thing?"

"Apparently he came out of Juromaru's gut." explained Gohan "His name's Kageromaru."

Koga smirked "He may be fast, but I've got this."

Gohan and Koga then used their enhanced speed to chase down Kageromaru, with little luck, while Inuyasha fought Juromaru. Fortunately, they were able to predict what moves Kageromaru would make, but his little underground trick proved to be Inuyasha's undoing, sending Inuyasha crashing to the ground, and the Tessaiga flying out of his grip.

Gohan then made his way towards Koga "Listen, there's only one way we can win this. We have to add more Ryu scales. One more for each leg."

Koga nodded "Let's do it."

Sure enough, 7 more Ryu scales appeared in Gohan's hand. Gohan then put one in each of his arms and legs, and one in Koga's left arm and legs.

With these new power ups, they prepared to do battle with Juromaru and Kageromaru once more.

But unfortunately, things got ugly really fast.

Inuyasha emerged and slashed at Kageromaru, his eyes blood Crimson, and purple marks on his cheeks.

Everyone but Gohan and Koga backed away at this.

"What is that?" asked Koga upon seeing him.

"Something bad." Gohan stated flatly

With his newfound speed in his demon form, Inuyasha easily did away with Juromaru, before turning his sight on Kageromaru.

Gohan turned to the wolf demon "Koga, stop Inuyasha and get the Tessaiga. That will reverse the transformation. I'll deal with Kageromaru."

Koga nodded and charged.

Thanks to his newfound strength and speed, Gohan easily finished off Kageromaru with a Dragon Cyclone, and watched how Koga was doing.

Even with his Ryu scales and jewel shards, Koga was having difficulty keeping up with the transformed Inuyasha. Fortunately, he made Inuyasha lose his footing and knocked him out with a jaw-shattering punch to the face, sending him flying into the trees, landing next to where the Tessaiga was, reversing the transformation.

The battle over, Koga fell over, exhausted "I gotta admit Gohan, Ryu scales are awesome."

Gohan nodded weakly "Yeah. Each one is the same as 2 jewel shards."

Koga then turned serious "Seriously though, what happened to the mutt?"

Gohan sighed "It's the Tessaiga. Inuyasha's a half demon, but the sword keeps his demon blood in check. If his life is ever threatened when he loses hold of the sword, he turns into a bloodthirsty maniac."

Koga shuddered "I'm still shaking thinking about it. Still though, maybe having a weapon like the Ryuuga or the Tessaiga isn't a bad idea."

At that moment, Hakkaku and Ginta showed up "What'd we miss?"

"A lot." Gohan and Koga said simultaneously

Then Hakkaku spoke up "Well, Koga, there might be one thing that can help you."

Koga nodded "Lead the way, guys. See ya, Gohan, Kagome." and he took off in a whirlwind, Ginta and Hakkaku slowly running after him.

Unknown to them, Inuyasha had regained consciousness and was listening to their conversation, and had heard everything about the Tessaiga and his transformation.

He didn't say much for the rest of the night.

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He set out early the next morning, knowing what he had to do. Gohan made no attempt to stop him.

Realizing the danger to himself and to the others, he made his way to Totosai's cave to find answers about how to make the Tessaiga lighter "Hey! You there Totosai? We need to talk."

Totosai nodded "I expected you would come. Just not so soon. What happened?"

Inuyasha explained the encounter with Juromaru and Kageromaru, his transformation, and how he only remembered getting repeatedly sucker punched by Koga, while he found Myoga sucking on him.

Totosai merely sighed "Well I'm glad you've realized the danger of transforming, but I must warn you: there's only one way to make the Tessaiga lighter, and if you fail, you will die."

Inuyasha nodded "I'm willing to take that risk."

"I see. Inuyasha, to master the Tessaiga, you must kill Ryukotsusei."

Myoga began sweating bullets "You didn't say Ryukotsusei, did you?"

Totosai nodded "I did. He is the demon your father battled and sealed into a dormant state. Inuyasha, why do you think this new Tessaiga is so heavy? It is because your fang has not yet reached the power of your father's."

"In other words, if I slay the demon my father fought, I'll surpass him in strength?" Inuyasha surmised.

"Now listen, master Inuyasha." Myoga warned "By destroy, all you have to do is pierce the demon's heart since his powers still lay dormant."

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But unknown to them, they were being watched by the Saimyosho.

Naraku heard all of this and smirked "Interesting. I've dispatched Kanna, Kagura, Goshinki, Juromaru and Kageromaru, and not a single one of you were able to put an end to Inuyasha. Let's give this Ryukotsusei a try, shall we?"

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXInuyasha arrived at the valley of Ryukotsusei, and saw the form of the mighty dragon demon lying dormant.

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Gohan was blowing off steam by slaying demons in the forest, when he came across Kikyo doing the same thing"Slaying demons to blow off steam?"

Kikyo nodded "How did you know?"

"You think you're the only one who does that?"

"How is Inuyasha?"

Gohan informed her of the situation "I can take you to him if you want."

"Please do so."

Gohan took her on his back and sped off.

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Inuyasha soon found the dormant form of Ryukotsusei, but that wasn't all he found.

"Naraku…" Inuyasha snarled

Naraku used his miasma to melt the claw that pierced Ryukotsusei and rendered him dormant, awakening the mighty dragon demon "Ryukotsusei, over yonder stands the son of the demon who hurled you into dormancy! Do with him as you please."

Ryukotsusei emerged from the rocks, furious and bloodthirsty.

"This is terrible! We must flee master Inuyasha!" Myoga shouted in a panic

Inuyasha snorted as he drew the Tessaiga "You must be out of your mind! This way is much better than defeating some defenseless demon like I'm some kind of coward. If I'm gonna make the Tessaiga lighter, then I want to face him head to head. I'm gonna take you out!"

Ryukotsusei merely chuckled "Little man. You think you could destroy me? How very entertaining. This shall prove amusing." he lunged at Inuyasha, who dodged the blow and landed on the dragon's back and swung at him, but missed.

"Such an eyesore." Ryukotsusei prepared a demonic energy blast, destroying the mountain nearby, along with Naraku's puppet "Little man, I hope you provide me with more amusement than he could."

Inuyasha smirked "More than happy to oblige."

The battle began.

Inuyasha noticed the mark left by the claw. Knowing where to strike, he charged, but it did nothing, due to not being able to cut through the thick skin, harder than iron.

Ryukotsusei launched a blast at Inuyasha, who barely dodged it.

"Master Inuyasha, we don't stand a chance!" Myoga cried

Inuyasha scoffed "Save it, would ya? I'm just getting started."

"I already told you!" Myoga cried "It took everything in your father's power to render him dormant! More importantly, the wound inflicted upon your father during the battle was ultimately what killed him!"

Inuyasha's eyes widened at this.

Ryukotsusei smirked at this "So, he perished, did he? And you are the son of that wretch? Don't tell me you came to avenge him with that ridiculously heavy sword."

Inuyasha scoffed "Unfortunately, I don't even remember what my father looked like! As if I would even care about avenging his death."

Myoga was outraged by this before he ran away.

Inuyasha was clearly outmatched by Ryukotsusei, but he wouldn't give up. He knew he had to kill Ryukotsusei, and the Tessaiga would become lighter.

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Totosai made his way to the battlefield, hoping Inuyasha could unlock the Tessaiga's ultimate attack: the Backlash Wave, more than 3x the power of the Wind Scar.

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Inuyasha was on the losing end of the battle with Ryukotsusei, being forced on the defensive rather quickly. Ryukotsusei was easily dominating Inuyasha during the battle, blow after blow, until he lost his grip on the Tessaiga. Ryukotsusei then shot a blast of energy at him, injuring him further.

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Gohan and Kikyo then arrived on the battlefield, just in time to notice Inuyasha transform into his demon form. At the same time, Totosai arrived, and saw his transformation.

Inuyasha's demon claws were able to barely pierce the skin of Ryukotsusei, but if he won the battle in his demon form, the Tessaiga would not become lighter.

Gohan turned to Kikyo "You have to call out to him, Lady Kikyo."

Kikyo nodded "Inuyasha!"

Inuyasha's eyes widened and he halted his attack "Kikyo…" slowly, he lowered his claws, and he gripped on the Tessaiga, returning to normal "I won't let you harm Kikyo!" he raised the Tessaiga, which, much to his surprise, slowly began becoming lighter. Then, he noticed something. The Wind Scar began rapping around the Tessaiga, before he blasted it at Ryukotsusei, sending the dragon demon crashing to the ground "Did you see that, Totosai? That thing is as good as dead!"

Totosai shook his head "I'll give you the credit you deserve, but it's too early to celebrate."

At that moment, Ryukotsusei rose again.

Seeing no other option to counter a massive energy blast, Inuyasha used the Wind Scar to reflect the blast back at Ryukotsusei, slicing the demon to pieces, killing him.

Inuyasha had discovered the Backlash Wave.

But he didn't realize it "Wow, Totosai. You're more generous than I gave you credit for. What did you do to the Tessaiga? It's way better than before."

Totosai blinked "Wait a minute. You used the technique without realizing it?"

Gohan, Inuyasha and Kikyo looked at Totosai.

"The ultimate technique of the Tessaiga: the Backlash Wave." explained Totosai "It uses the enemy's blast of demonic energy, ensnaring it with the Wind Scar, and reversing the flow of it. The Wind Scar and the demon's energy blast become like whirlpools. In other words, the enemy is blasted by both the Wind Scar, and his own demonic aura. Anyway, that's the theory. The trick is to precisely determine where to cut through the blast of energy. And his aura must be much stronger than that of his enemy for the technique to succeed."

Gohan had to question though "How did you come back to your sense after you transformed?"

Inuyasha smiled "Kikyo. She brought me back." He hugged Kikyo, who hugged him back "I know about what you said you'd do for her Gohan. Thank you."

Gohan smiled and nodded "We'd better head back. Kagome and the others must be getting worried." then he sensed something in the distance 'Looks like Inuyasha wasn't the only one powering up. I can feel Koga's demonic energy shooting way up.'

(A:N Yeah, let's backtrack a little bit.)

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(At the same time- Wolf demon burial ground)

"Are you serious about this Koga?" asked Hakkaku

Ginta nodded in agreement "The most powerful weapon known to the wolf-demon tribe, the Goraishi, is enshrined in the deepest part of these burial grounds."

Koga smirked "That's perfect! Once I get my hands on this Goraishi, I'll have no problem beating the life out of Naraku and Kagura."

And they set out further into the graveyard.

After several hours of walking, they made found their objective "Koga, over there!"

"The Goraishi of the wolf demon tribe." Koga ran toward it.

Only to be stopped by a massive three headed wolf-demon guardian made of stone "None shall pass beyond this point."

"We mean no harm." said Hakkaku

Ginta nodded "We've just come to borrow the Goraishi."

"Never!" the demon growled "It belongs to the wolf demon tribe, and contains centuries of our brethren's souls. If you desire it-"

"I have to defeat you!" Koga charged, dodging the blast of fire, and rebounded off the cliff, destroying the body of the demon

It regenerated "Cursed brat! You're using Shikon jewel shards and Ryu scales?!"

"So what if I am?" Koga charged again, dodging another blast of fire and cutting its body in two, before it regenerated again.

This process continued multiple times.

Just as Koga reached the Goraishi, he noticed Ginta and Hakkaku being attacked by the guardian.

Valuing the lives of his comrades more than power, Koga abandoned the Goraishi to save Ginta Hakkaku.

"Pathetic fool!" The guardian spat "Behold!"

Much to their horror, the Goraishi had disappeared.

The guardian continued taunting Koga "You should've abandoned your friends and obtained the Goraishi when you had the chance!"

Koga snorted "If you think I regret my choice, then you don't know me at all. Listen up! The only reason I came for your precious Goraishi is because I plan to use it to avenge my tribe! But if it means sacrificing my comrades, then I don't need the Goraishi! Got it moron?!"

Having heard enough of the guardian, Koga charged once more, but as he did, the Goraishi appeared on his right arm. Not complaining, Koga used the power of the Goraishi "Take this! Lightning claw!" And he eliminated the guardian with one sweep of his claw.

Immediately after, Koga noticed the Goraishi disappear 'It disappeared! No, it merged with my body. It's part of me now!'

"The Goraishi will be your claws." a voice called out "From this day forth, you shall have the protection of our souls. However, soon, a great power will come to control the Shikon jewel shards in your legs. A power which is not of this world. We can only protect you from it once."

Koga nodded 'I'll be sure to remember that. Alright guy, let's go." they set off to track down Naraku once more.

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Gohan smirked 'Looks like Koga's got a new weapon. I've gotta check it out next time I see him.'

And they departed, with Inuyasha's new lighter Tessaiga and the Backlash wave.

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It was the day of the new moon.

Koga stopped so that Ginta and Hakkaku could catch up to him.

Koga, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru had all sensed it. The barrier around Naraku's castle was weakening, allowing them to track his scent.

Koga's mind filled with thoughts of vengeance.

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Inuyasha was sniffing the ground, trying to track Naraku, while Gohan was trying to sense Naraku's demonic energy.

Suddenly, Kagome's eyes widened "I sense two sacred jewel shards coming fast!"

Inuyasha growled "I smell the reek of wolf."

Gohan just rolled his eyes "I can see a cyclone heading for us."

Sure enough, Koga stepped out, jumped on top of Inuyasha, and stopped in front of Kagome "Yo Kagome. Great to see you again. Hey, what's up Gohan?"

Gohan smirked and bumped fists with him "Hey Koga. So, what's with the spike in your power? I felt it shoot way up a while back."

Koga smirked "That's my new weapon. The Goraishi." he formed the Goraishi on his hand for emphasis.

"Nice. I can feel the power radiating from that thing. Want to spar and test that thing out?"

"Sorry, but I just came on a quick visit to check on Kagome."

Gohan shrugged and turned to the angry Inuyasha, about to pounce at Koga, but Kagome beat him to it "Sit boy."

CRASH!

"Anyway Koga, did you come to find Naraku's castle as well?" asked Miroku

Koga nodded "I don't know why, but I'm picking up strong whiffs of Naraku's foul stench. That never happened before."

Sango's eyes narrowed "That must mean…"

"The barrier around Naraku's castle has weakened." Miroku finished

Koga nodded "In any case, if I follow his scent, I'll find his castle." He then took Kagome's hands in his "Don't worry, Kagome. I promise I'll kill Naraku this time."

He opened his eyes to find that he was talking to Shippo "I don't think I'm your type."

Kagome was trying to stop Inuyasha.

Feeling something different, Koga walked over to Inuyasha "What's going on? Something's different about you. You don't smell like a mutt. Did you take a soak in the river or what?"

Gohan dragged him away by the back of his armor "I'll tell you later."

At that moment, they noticed Ginta and Hakkaku running towards them.

That was when it clicked in Koga's mind "Oh right. I don't have time for this. Later Kagome. Later Gohan." he took off in a cyclone.

"Are you running away again?" Inuyasha shouted

"Naraku's head is mine!" Koga called back.

"Slow down Koga!" Hakkaku shouted as they passed by "Oh, hello Kagome. Hey Gohan."

"Hi boys." said Kagome

"Hey guys." said Gohan

"Do you think we should go after him?" asked Sango

Miroku shook his head "I think it's better not to do anything tonight."

Gohan nodded "The last thing we need is for Naraku to discover Inuyasha's weakness."

Inuyasha growled to himself. He knew they were right.

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Kagura decided to take advantage of Naraku's mysterious absence to attack Koga and steal the jewel shards in his legs.

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Koga and his comrades had narrowed down to where Naraku's scent was strongest, but were having no luck finding Naraku's castle.

That was when Kagura attacked.

Using her dance of the dead, Kagura trapped Koga in a whirlwind of skeletons.

Knowing that Koga needed help, Ginta and Hakkaku went to get Inuyasha and Gohan to help him.

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Inuyasha had turned human was fuming over the thought of Koga killing Naraku before he did.

Gohan and Kagome were sitting around the fire when Ginta and Hakkaku ran up to them and explained the situation.

Gohan just groaned "Koga just had to piss her off."

At that moment, Inuyasha exited from the hut and proceeded to clobber Ginta and Hakkaku when they saw him in his human form "Listen up you two. If you tell a soul about this I'll kill you both."

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Koga was still being attacked by Kagura's whirlwind.

Eventually, he managed to use the Goraishi to break free, but not before Kagura's whirlwind ripped the jewel shards from his legs.

Having what she came for, Kagura fled when she noticed Gohan and the others arrive, but not before she saw Inuyasha in his human form.

Kagome quickly ran over to him "Koga, your legs!"

Koga shrugged "I've still got the Ryu scales. Thanks for that by the way, Gohan."

Gohan smacked him upside the head "You moron! You might not need the jewel shards, but what we do need is to keep Naraku from getting the jewel shards!"

Koga stared for a moment before the gears clicked in his mind.

Inuyasha snorted as he stomped over to them while Kagome was tending to his wounds "Don't bother Kagome. He's gonna die anyway."

Koga glared at him before his eyes widened at the sight of Inuyasha's human form "Inuyasha?"

"You're pathetic Koga. Getting all cut up by Kagura."

"Look who's talking. You're nothing but a weak mortal."

Gohan and Kagome glared at him before Gohan spoke "Well, in any case, even without your jewel shards, you've still got Ryu scales."

Koga nodded "I know. I got careless. I don't plan on that happening again."

"Good. Let's go. We've got to stop Kagura from bringing those shards to Naraku."

"I don't think that's gonna be a problem." said Kagome "It feels like the shards are moving further and further away from Naraku's castle."

"What direction?"

Kagome pointed.

Gohan stared for a moment before he raised an eyebrow "Well this is an interesting development. Even with Koga's jewel shards, she doesn't stand a chance against him."

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Kagura, after much consideration, decided to make an offer to the one being possibly capable of defeating Naraku: Sesshomaru.

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Sesshomaru was tracking Naraku's scent, when Kagura showed up "Sesshomaru, I assume you came here following Naraku's scent as well?"

"Wind sorceress Kagura. I recall." Sesshomaru placed his hand on Tokijin.

"Take you hand from your sword." said Kagura "I didn't come to fight, Sesshomaru. I have a proposition you might be interested in." she held out her hand, revealing Koga's sacred jewel shards "You know what these are, Sesshomaru. I'll give you these sacred jewel shards. In return, I want you to kill Naraku. You have the power to do it. Once you kill Naraku, all the sacred jewel shards he's gathered will be yours. Let's use those shards and provide ourselves with a little amusement."

"You intend to betray Naraku?"

"It's not as though I've chosen to live under his command. What do you think of my plan? Joining forces would be of mutual benefit."

"Unfortunately, I have no interest in the sacred jewel. If you wish to become free, use those shards yourself and destroy Naraku."

"Are you afraid of him?"

"I'm saying I'm under no obligation to assist you. If you don't have the resolve to go it alone, don't even think about betraying him."

"Foolish coward! And you call yourself a man?"

Rin and Jaken gasped.

Angered, Kagura took off.

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But she didn't make it far before she was drop-kicked out of the sky by Koga.

Koga was about to finish it when several dozen demons appeared out of a black cloud in the sky.

Now knowing not to hold anything back, Koga unleashed the full power of the Goraishi "Prepare to die in the name of my comrades! Lightning claw!" And the demonic lightning blast surged towards Kagura, before the other demons acted as a shield for her, being incinerated in the process.

Knowing that she was outmatched when she saw Gohan arrive on the scene, Kagura fled.

Gohan then handed the shards to Koga "You better keep these for the time being."

Koga nodded "Thanks Gohan. Take care of Kagome." he took off in a cyclone.

Sesshomaru then appeared on the scene "So, Kagura stole those jewel shards from him?"

Gohan nodded "How do you know about that?"

"She came to me with an offer. She would give me the jewel shards in exchange for killing Naraku."

"I highly doubt that she has the guts to go it alone."

"Agreed. I noticed you gave that wolf-demon Ryu scales."

"He wants to kill Naraku because he slaughtered dozens of wolf demons and tricked him into thinking Inuyasha did it."

"An admirable reason. Until then, Son Gohan."

Gohan nodded and left in a burst of speed.

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Kagura returned to the castle, where Naraku threatened her into submission.

Despite that, Kagura realized that Naraku was "only" a half-demon.

So she decided to keep Inuyasha's weakness a secret, as her trump card.

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After the incident with Koga and Kagura, Gohan and Kagome decided to return to the present for a few days.

During which, Kagome BARELY got a C on her math test.

Gohan, however, got a 96% on it.

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Kagome and her friends were talking about personal stuff at Wacdonald's.

Ayumi decided to change the subject from the school issue "So Kagome, how are things going with Gohan?"

Kagome's cheeks turned pink "Well, there's nothing really new going on between us. Well, except for the whole thing with Koga."

Then the question bombing started.

"Ok, he's a friend of Gohan's from out of town who said he's in love with me. He and Gohan have this little friendly rivalry going on over who's gonna win my heart."

Needless to say, they didn't drop the subject.

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All wasn't well in the Feudal Era.

Naraku stood over a cliff, looking at his arm as purple flesh started to bulge out "You want to come out? Then allow me to grant you your wish."

The purple flesh reached to his fingers and began bulging. It throbbed and finally detached itself from Naraku before falling into the valley below.

"Who was that? My brother?" asked Kanna

"He's nothing like the rest of you." Naraku turned and began to walk away "Let's go."

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The purple flesh opened and revealed a faceless man emerged, with no memories of who he was, and slaughtered the bandits who came to investigate.

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Next morning, Inuyasha and the rest, having met up with Koga earlier, were tracking where they had smelled Naraku and fresh human blood.

They found the bodies of the bandits.

When Koga got a good look at one of the corpses, he nearly began to wretch "What the hell?!"

Inuyasha did the same "Take a look at this! His face has been carved right off!"

It turned out all of the faces had been carved off.

It didn't add up to them.

Naraku's scent was all over the place, but what could he possibly gain from stooping to stealing faces?

Whatever it meant, it wouldn't be good.

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The nameless incarnation attacked and killed a monk by the name of Muso, and stole his face.

The monk's young apprentice, however, escaped to a nearby village.

The incarnation then went on a killing and pillaging spree, stealing weapons, armor, and other things while slaughtering several villages.

But to him, it wasn't enough. He wanted more, but without his memories, he didn't know what he was missing.

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He then took off and found himself near Kaede's village, and suspected that he would find what he was looking for there.

He prepared to charge towards the village, but Inuyasha and Koga got in his way.

"Explained yourselves. Who are you?" He demanded

"Someone who wants your head." Koga snarled

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In the present era, Gohan and Kagome were preparing to head back to the Feudal Era.

But Gohan couldn't shake a bad feeling in the bottom of his gut.

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"Where's Naraku?" Inuyasha demanded

The incarnation looked at him, confused "Naraku?"

"Don't play innocent!" Koga snarled "You're one of his incarnations. You reek of his filthy odor!"

"Do you know anything about me at all? Could you tell me who I am? Where I'm from?"

"Shut up!" Inuyasha barked

Sango turned to them "Inuyasha, Koga, I think he's the one responsible for all the killings. Not Naraku."

Koga just growled at this "One thing's certain. He definitely has the same smell as Naraku."

"Are you the one who killed the bandits and stole their faces?" asked Miroku

The incarnation grinned "Yes, that was me. But they were all so ugly, I couldn't use them. But this one is beautiful."

"Did you steal that face too?" asked Inuyasha

"Yes. I wanted to have a handsome face, and money, women. I wanted it all. And I stole everything. But it's not enough. There's something missing. Tell me, what is it that I'm craving here?"

Unknown to them, they were being watched by Naraku through his Saimyosho.

"You were the one that attacked the village and set it ablaze." Miroku realized

"Yes I did." He replied "I thought that if I slaughtered some people, it might help me restore my memories. It didn't work, but I did enjoy myself."

"Who the **** are you?" Koga snarled

"I told you, I can't recall." he thought for a moment "Oh, I know. How about calling me Muso? That will do quite nicely. It's the name of the young monk who gave me his face. Kind of him, wasn't it?"

"Gave you his face?!" Inuyasha snarled "You slaughtered the poor guy!"

Muso frowned "Why are you looking at me like that? I don't like it."

"The feeling's mutual, bastard." Koga spat

"You know what? I really don't like the look of your face. Tell me, have we ever met before?"

"I don't know, but this conversation is going nowhere fast." Inuyasha snarled

Koga nodded in agreement "For once, the mutt's got a point. Someone who smells exactly like Naraku is killing innocent people. Let him burn in hell, along with Naraku once I get my hands on him."

In response, Muso charged at them, sword in hand, but Koga used the Goraishi to take Muso's arm.

Suddenly, several Saimyosho appeared and fused with Muso's body, restoring his arm.

With his new arm, Muso was able to release wooden tentacles from his body, matching both Inuyasha and Koga blow for blow.

At that moment, Gohan and Kagome showed up.

Muso's eyes widened and memories of Kikyo flashed through his mind as he payed eyes on Kagome "That woman…"

After Koga quickly explained the situation, Gohan drew the Ryuuga and charged in, taking off part of Muso's arm once more.

But Muso regrew it, and charged towards Kagome, grabbing her in his tentacles "It is this woman that I've been missing!" He attempted to retract his arm and ring Kagome towards him, but Koga hacked off his arm with the Goraishi, freeing Kagome.

Then more Saimyosho appeared, restoring Muso's arm once more.

Having had enough, Gohan charged in 'Zalama, what's with this guy's arm?'

"It's a rare demonic elemental combination: Forest, combining water and earth. Gohan, there is a way to combine two elemental properties to make the attack more powerful.'

'So I combine Earth and Lightning to take down his Water and Earth?'

"Yes. Now go."

Doing as Zalama said, Gohan summoned the lightning and earth properties simultaneously "Don't you dare touch her! Dragon Blast!" the earth and lightning dragons combined into one single dragon, twice the size and power of the previous one, devouring Muso, before he disappeared.

"Why do you think he captured Kagome?" asked Shippo

Gohan shook his head "All we know for sure is that he's one of Naraku's incarnations. The spider mark on his back proves that."

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Kikyo approached a young monk in training, and was informed of Muso killing the monk and stealing his face.

Knowing that Naraku was somehow involved, Kikyo decided to investigate.

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In the castle, Naraku watched Kikyo, recalling a conversation about how he couldn't kill her because the heart of Onigumo was still beating strong inside of him.

He then ordered the imprisoned Kagura to follow Muso, and inform Inuyasha, Koga, Gohan and the others of Muso's whereabouts.

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Muso regenerated as he began recalling more and more memories of his past.

He then proceeded to steal more weapons and armor.

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As suggested by Gohan and Koga, Kagome was preparing to head home for her safety, seeing as Muso was after her.

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As suggested by Gohan and Koga, Kagome was preparing to head home for her safety, seeing as Muso was after her.

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Muso had made his way to where Naraku had predicted… The cave of Onigumo.

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Gohan and the others were trying to backtrack the path taken by Muso, when she showed up.

"Kagura." Koga snarled "What are you doing here? Here to die? Because last time you tried to take my shards, it didn't go too well."

"Only because of me." Gohan pointed out

"As if!" Koga spluttered "I got cocky, that's all!"

"Will you two shut up!" Kagura barked "I didn't come to fight. I simply want to tell you where Muso is."

"I had a feeling he was still alive." Gohan muttered

Koga nodded "My gut told me we weren't through with him."

Inuyasha was less trusting "How come you're so helpful all of a sudden?"

Kagura ignored him "You're familiar with the cave where Kikyo and Onigumo stayed? That's where he's heading. Farewell." and with that, she departed.

"So what's the whole deal with this Onigumo person?" asked Koga

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Kaede and Kagome were heading to the cave, and prepared to head inside.

In the cave, Muso was finally began recovering some of his lost memories, when Kagome and Kaede approached.

"Kikyo!" he exited the cave, finally regaining his memories "I finally remembered what pained me! It was Kikyo! I've come seeking that woman! The woman who is identical to Kikyo!" And he prepared to use his arm to capture Kagome, when…

"Dragon Blast!" Gohan appeared and destroyed part of the arm.

"Inuyasha, always interfering." Muso spat "My memories have returned. I used to be a bandit long ago when Kikyo and I stayed in this very cave."

"Inuyasha, Gohan, Koga." Kaede told them "Muso is Onigumo!"

Inuyasha's eyes widened at this "Onigumo? The bastard who fed his soul to demons and became Naraku's very core?"

"That's how Naraku was created?" asked Koga

Gohan shrugged "You know, now that I think about it, maybe the story wasn't that long."

Muso smirked "You flatter me, Inuyasha. I remembered everything! Including how Kikyo died back then!"

"You're the one who injured her, bastard!" Inuyasha spat

"That's ridiculous! Why do you think I fed me very soul to the demons that I summoned? I wanted possession of the sacred jewel and a healthy body so I could steal Kikyo away and leave this cave. But when I got my new body, nothing went as I planned. The first thing I did when I left the cave was cut down the very woman I had sold my body and soul for."

"When Naraku was born, Onigumo's consciousness still live inside him." Kagome mused

"But Naraku was created from the Union of hundreds of demons." Kaede added "And those demons had one desire. The death of my sister Kikyo."

Muso nodded "Kikyo followed him, that half-demon Inuyasha straight into her very demise. Kikyo perished, and the sacred jewel was burned along with her corpse. At that very same time, someone purged me into a deep, dark place."

Inuyasha's eyes widened "That must've been Naraku!"

"I don't know exactly how many years I laid dormant for. But when I finally awoke, I had been hurled back into the outside world again."

"Have you not received orders from Naraku?" asked Miroku

"I take orders from no one. I slaughter everyone I hate, and burn them to the ground! Now then, Inuyasha. You're first. Why are you still alive anyway? Kikyo's dead!"

At that moment, several Saimyosho arrived.

The three most powerful ones engaged in battle with Muso, Inuyasha wielding Tessaiga, Koga wielding the Goraishi, and Gohan wielding the Ryuuga.

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Kikyo was approached by Naraku, who came to test his new power, now that he no longer possessed the heart of Onigumo.

He attempted to strangle her, but found himself having difficulty controlling his demonic powers.

Realizing that Onigumo wasn't completely severed from his being, Naraku knew what he had to do.

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At the cave, Gohan and the others were having little luck against the power of Muso.

No matter how many times they destroyed his body, he just kept regenerating.

Muso then took the form of a scorpion like demon, and pierced Gohan through the chest, before the tail was destroyed by Koga's Goraishi.

Gohan then blew his body to pieces with the Dragon Cyclone, but Muso's body began regenerating. Even with all three of them, they were on the losing side of the battle.

"Guys, listen." said Gohan "We've got to combine our attacks into one massive force, powerful enough to blow Muso to so many pieces, he can't regenerate."

They nodded and began to put his plan into action:

"Lightning claw!"

"Wind Scar!"

"Dragon Inferno!"

"Dragon Scorching Thunder!" the combined power of the three attacks obliterated Muso's heart. Or it would've, if Kagura hadn't diverted the attack.

The Saimyosho then took Muso's heart and flew off, with Gohan, Inuyasha, Miroku and Koga following them.

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At a nearby lake, Muso finished regenerating, and was musing to himself about his failure to kill Inuyasha.

At that moment, Naraku appeared before him, intent on absorbing him. He then informed Muso that Kikyo had returned to the world of the living.

Gohan, Inuyasha, Miroku and Koga arrived just in time to see Naraku reabsorb Muso into his body, calling out Kikyo's name as he vanished into Naraku's chest.

Miroku then stepped forward "Answer me this Naraku. You've swallowed Onigumo's heart again. So does that make you a half demon?"

Naraku's expression didn't change "Why would you ask that?"

"Awhile back, the barrier around your castle weakened." explained Gohan "Inuyasha, Koga, and Sesshomaru could find it. You couldn't have wanted that."

Naraku smirked "I see. You both wish to know if even I have a period of weakness. If I am indeed like other half-demons. But exactly when that occurs is a half-demon's deepest secret. Let's hear about you, Inuyasha."

All he got as a response was "**** off!"

He ignored this and looked at the others "Son Gohan, monk. As you both surmised, I have periods when I cannot move. However, I choose that time for myself. During my times of weakness, I experiment. What is strong, I take and make stronger. I cast out the weak and become even more powerful. I'm a half-demon right now, there's no mistake. But unlike some other half-demons, I don't lose my powers and cower in fear."

Having heard enough, Koga charged at him with the Goraishi, but found that he and Kagura were being protected by a barrier.

Seeing this, Gohan used the Dragon Cyclone, but it didn't work.

Inuyasha tried with the Wind Scar, but got the same result.

Seeing no point in staying, Naraku and Kagura departed, much to the fury of everybody.

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Kikyo noticed Naraku's demonic presence, but decided not to say anything.

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Their objectives now clear, Gohan and Inuyasha departed to see Totosai, to learn how to break through Naraku's barrier.

They had to get stronger, and fast…