Author's Note:
This story evolved as an as I went thing with no real end in mind. It was more of a character exploration of "what would happen if..." So enjoy this bitter exploration into hurt, healing and hope.
Be warned, since I haven't followed the series closely in years or seen the Final Act, I'm pretty sure some things won't fit into cannon.
Of Pride and Power
Chapter 30: The Enchanted
"Take me back." Kagome demanded, looking to Goro with firm resolve even as the explosions in the distance shook the air. From the billowing plumes of fire lit smoke, Kagome knew that cannons weren't the only weapons at use. Smoldering fury burned within his eyes and Goro eased back into his seat his gaze never leaving hers. "If you don't pull this cart over, I swear you'll regret it!" she threatened her muscles tensing for action.
"I see." he observed stiffly. A labored exhale moved from his chest, his tone becoming distant as he looked away. "There was a story once." he began, reminiscently. "An old legend if you will, where a powerful inu-youkai seduced a fair princess and like the parasite it was, forced her to carry its seed. Blind to its charm she did so gladly, ignorant to the knowledge that she carried a spawn of pure evil-"
The very moment Kagome recognized his tale was the same moment her hand struck his cheek like a whip to flesh. "How dare you say that?" she rebuked, her eyes brimming with hot tears. "You don't know anything about that."
Stunned by her outburst Goro's jaw locked, his nostrils flared and with a raised chin he looked to her with new eyes. "I see." he said, his words clipped. "I remember the fire which stirred your bloodlust for that creature's death. I remember the ferocity that led you to subdue it where others could not.'
"Now, after being imprisoned with it, your opinion has reversed and I cannot help but see the parallels between that bewitched princess and yourself. I know not how that beast quelled your ire, but I will not allow it to have you."
"You can't do this!" Kagome argued. "I won't let you!" Swiftly, Kagome moved to push the door open, but not before Goro seized her into his arms, pinning her back against his chest.
"Calm yourself! Its spell will not last and you will return to your senses!" he grunted as he struggled to keep her still. "Lady Kagome, please!" Briefly she debated on biting his arm but realized her teeth would never penetrate his armored bracers. Goro's hold proved too powerful and unlike her scrap with the villagemen, Kagome was at a loss in how to beat him.
"Sesshomaru!" she screamed, praying he'd hear her. If nothing else, he had to know that she was okay. From beyond the window, earth quaking explosions gilded the golden trees, giving life to their fiery hues with blazing flames that lit the sky. A feral howl pierced the air, it's sound no longer forlorn, but strong, fierce and one of war. In its sound, Kagome found assurance.
He knew.
Kagome could only hope he'd abandon any reckless behavior. If she was safe, the smart thing would be to regroup and plan his attack rather than charge bullishly into battle as his brother had done. Behind her, Goro slid the window within the carriage open to speak with the driver in haste.
"Increase our speed. It knows we have her." he barked. The carriage lurched forward and compensating for the increase of force, Goro held her firmly. "You will be free from its enchantment soon enough." he promised.
"I'm not enchanted you idiot!" she snapped. "Why can't you get that through your thick meat head?"
"Meat...head?" he echoed with perturbed awe. "An insult of your time I presume."
"No duh." she grumbled, pushing away from him to reclaim her seat. "You're making a big mistake mister."
"Concerning that creature I'm afraid I don't agree, however I have made a mistake." he admitted solemnly. "I should have never allowed you to enter the presence of that thing. In that I am sorry Lady Kagome. Please forgive me."
Kagome rolled her eyes and moved her fingers to her temple in frustration. Goro's sincerity in all of this just made everything worse. It was obvious he thought he was helping her, but that was the farthest thing from the truth. Worse, Kagome was unsure in how to make him see that.
"We were not prepared before, but things have changed." proclaimed Lord Goro.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"That creature is a proud one. Thinking himself invincible, he underestimates the power of man and as it is said, pride comes before the fall."
"What did you do?" Kagome pressed.
"I'm sorry Kagome." he answered softly. "It will all be over soon."Kagome listened to the canon bursts and rifle fire, her mind dredging up the nightmare of a world without Sesshomaru. Considering her knowledge of the future, Kagome could scarcely find hope.