Author's Note: I know this took me FOREVER to get up, but I just wasn't into writing during the summer. I had to work and I was busy with helping out my high school. I just wanted to have fun... what can I say? Sorry. But anyways, so I hope you enjoy this long awaited chapter.
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha...
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Chapter 14: What Now?
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The time was right. An attack should be made now. So why were they just sitting around, doing nothing?
Kaya walked up behind Raige, her orange eyes flashing with anger and irritation at Raige's lack of urgency in this matter. She knew that he must be wanting to get to Kagome too, so why the hesitation on his part.
"Why are we stalling?" Kaya asked, glaring at Raige's back.
Though Raige was in no mood to deal with Kaya's fit, he could feel her desire to kill something. Her aura was dark with lust, lusting for a certain someone that was for sure. Raige smirked, though Kaya could not see it or the humor in his eyes at her question. "You need to understand the assembly of a war, Kaya." Raige's eyes took in the ocean in front of him as he remained on a cliff with Kaya's ignorance testing his patience.
Kaya fumed inside and she felt embarrassed because she knew that Raige could feel her quick emotional changes while he remained so calm and unfazed. That only ignited her anger even more. Turning on her heels, Kaya clenched her fists at her sides and walked away from him. "You need to understand who you're working with first before you assume the wrong impressions."
Raige lifted an eyebrow, feeling Kaya's aura retreating and called out to her, though he never once raised his voice. "Is that a threat, Kaya?"
Now it was Kaya's turn to smirk, her eyes glittering with desire. "No, Raige. It is a mere fact." That said, Kaya left Raige standing on a small cliff on the side of a mountain overlooking the sea that stood between the two islands.
The battle was soon on his heels, and Raige had picked the perfect spot for his duel with Kagome. The island, Shikoku, was a perfect place for a battle. Though the island was separated from Honshu, Raige wouldn't have cared less if they had fought in a big city like Tokyo and killed many humans in the process. The amount of destroyed lives matter little to him. The fact that he had chosen Shikoku was for its land. The island had mountains separating the north and south sections of the island, which made it perfect for sneak attacks or lookouts on both sides of the island. There were many crop fields here, which made perfect battlegrounds, and less development which made less hassle for him. He didn't want to deal with any humans screaming and chaos erupting because they were witnessing a battle. But it was bound to happen because on his scouting around the island he had come across many cities and villages, all containing many people. So there was sure to be some uproar.
However, Raige was impressed by the island, and its known history of holding a famous battle so long ago. Raige's blue eyes shined as the sun beat down on his silver hair, igniting it like the shine of stars. With his arms crossed across his chest, Raige stood motionless watching three boats coming towards the island with full intention of coming to aid him in this battle with the Shikon no Miko.
Demon Lords were starting their journey to this one island from all places around Japan. Held back for so many years by the overpopulation of humans and their development, demons now seemed forgotten from the world that they once ruled. Japan was theirs and theirs for so long that it was surreal for demons to just cover up their identity and live like normal humans, eating and talking with each other. Every day was a hassle for many demons as they wish to kill again, to feel that feeling of bloodlust and victory that they had felt in the Feudal Era. And that was how Raige had gotten so many demon Lords to side with him and they would lend their hand, and army, to his benefit, if not their own too.
Raige smirked as the wind blew by his face, making him tingle with anticipation. His plan was coming into action and soon, soon he would have what he wanted. Nothing more but a woman… one woman to satisfy his growing hunger for domination and desire. A desire that could only be fulfilled if he had her beneath his body. And with one woman came two desires fulfilled, the woman and the Shikon no Tama.
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The night was cool against her skin as Kagome walked around in Inuyasha's backyard. Inuyasha's and Kikyo's house was just as grand as Inutaisho's and she liked the space of the backyard. It seemed so fitting for Inuyasha because she knew of his love for running and the land. Inuyasha was a demon, and most demons loved the land as if it was their own because they depended on it for survival. Kagome smiled to herself as she gazed up at the stars shinning so brightly in the sky.
'What are you going to do, Kagome?' she asked herself, willing the heavens for an answer. The stars just twinkled their answer to her, hoping that she could take their secret code and make sense of it in her language. Kagome sighed heavily and gazed back out in front of her as her feet went on an endless journey, searching for answers in the grass of the land. Her fingers came up to her neck, playing idly with the Shikon no Tama resting so softly against her skin. She could feel its power coursing through her just from its touch, its coolness only adding to her confusion.
Mayonaka had a concert tomorrow at Swan Lake again, and she was expected to give a small speech. David had told the group that the media was expecting the High Priestess to make an appearance at their concert, because of how well the band knew the priestess, and they wanted her to make a statement. Of what, Kagome had no idea. The concert wasn't about her, it was about the band, but the fact that she would be there making a speech would definitely draw publicity for them, though they really didn't need any help in that. However, Kagome wondered why the media would want her to say anything. She already had the AAA Party where she was first introduced as the High Priestess and now she had to go into the public eye again and say something. But as Kagome thought about it, the AAA Party was closed off to the public so she had never actually said anything to the public ever since her debut.
Gazing around, Kagome took in her sights after being lost in her thoughts. Her hand fell to her side, forgetting about the Shikon no Tama, as she realized that she was at the timberline of the forest. A small smile crept its way onto Kagome's face and her eyes shone with a child's joy. Slowly slipping off her sandals, Kagome took one last look behind her at the house that stood with lights pouring out the windows, not noticing anyone watching her. She faced the beginning of the trees, and with only one thought in mind, Kagome took off.
Her feet flew along the ground like a deer's hooves, hitting the softness of the grass and leaving her footprint against the crushed leaves. Her breath left her lungs in a rush, her body was alive and full of adrenaline. The adrenaline rush was too much for her to take in, too much for her to contain, so she kept running. A huge smile was on her face as her eyes were wide with excitement. She kept running, satisfying that wild, free part of her that she felt right now. She just wanted to feel the wind flying against her face and through her hair. She just wanted to feel her legs burn and get numb from running so long, her blood pumping quickly through her body to help her know that she was still alive. The trees flew by her in the darkness and she let out a heartfelt laugh at the sudden rush of life that she felt overcome all of her other emotions that had been swamping her just minutes ago. Kagome kept running until she could run no more, until her heart was beating so quickly that it might explode in her chest and her legs came so numb that she had to stop for breath.
Easing her speed down, Kagome finally came to a halt in a small clearing and bent at the waist, placing her hands on her knees to catch her breath. The necklace hung out beneath her and Kagome gazed at the jewel that hung from her neck. She averted her eyes as she began to breathe in deeply, not wanting the jewel to take over her emotions again. She had just experienced the freedom and adrenaline that she hadn't felt in so long. It was a huge relief as now it felt like the burdens on her shoulders had been lifted just as how she had felt like she had been flying along the land. Once Kagome caught her breath, she rose to her full height and gazed at the small clearing she was in.
There was a rare, small patch of Jasmines just across of her. Kagome's eyes took in the delicate sight and with a small smile she made her way to the small patch. The Jasmines weren't that big, even. They seemed just like small babies, but there were a few of them so it seemed like that was how big they grew. Kagome went to her knees and reached out to touch the petals of one flower, marveling in its softness. She plucked one from the ground and brought the white flower to her face, smelling the intoxicating scent and taking it deep into her lungs. Kagome smiled satisfyingly, gazing around to see the darkness of the night around her.
'Inuyasha…' She could sense him coming closer, so tuned to his aura that she could feel him even as he had remained in his home. Kagome smiled and took another sniff of the small Jasmine, waiting for Inuyasha to find her. It didn't take him long. A minute later, Kagome could feel him near her but he was in one area, unmoving, and she knew that he was right behind her. Kagome smiled and went to her butt to sit down more comfortably, staring at the small patch of Jasmines.
"I didn't know that Jasmines could grow like this," she commented, not knowing what else to talk about. The silence still stretched on until finally she heard movement and Inuyasha was walking towards her, his aura getting stronger.
"It doesn't." Kagome scrunched her eyebrows in confusion though she didn't turn around, thinking to give him, and her, space until she noticed Inuyasha was right next to her, sitting down. She gazed at him with wonder as his eyes clashed with hers. "I planted them."
Kagome tilted her head with confusion. "But why?"
Inuyasha smirked with a snicker and then gazed at the small patch in front of Kagome, memories flooding his mind. "When we first bought this house, I was still… you know… missing you. Whenever it was too much for me to take, I would run around in the forest for a bit." Kagome nodded her understanding of him, and he hid his smile of satisfaction at how well Kagome still knew him after all this time. "But as time went on, the running just wasn't helping. So I asked my mother for some Jasmines and a few seeds to plant in this little clearing I found. So whenever I had a hard time with losing you, I would come here and the scent of the Jasmines would remind me of you. It helped a lot when I needed to cope with the loss of you." Inuyasha put his head down, making Kagome look away and think about the sadness and hardship that he had to have gone through.
"They're beautiful," she commented, twirling the small Jasmine with her fingers.
Inuyasha smiled and gazed at the flower in Kagome's fingers. "Yeah but they don't grow too big. That's the biggest they get." At this, Kagome turned to giggle at Inuyasha but he just shrugged with a smile at the fact.
The two then remained quiet, gazing around them and at the flowers for a long time, both not knowing what else to say. The pressure of being together, without being together, was definitely an issue for the both of them. But Kagome knew when to push it and when not to. She kept her eyes fixed on the Jasmine in her hand and twirled it back and forth with her thumb and index finger. Inuyasha remained quiet next to her, probably just loving the silence between them as much as she did.
Inuyasha inwardly sighed, shifting around so that he could sit facing Kagome. He wanted to gaze at her, to take in her beauty while they remained out here, alone, in this forest. Just the two of them. Although Kikyo knew of this spot he loved, she rarely came out here to find him when he went on his little running because she knew of what it reminded him, and her. So she never bothered to bring back hurtful memories. 'Kikyo…' The thought of his fiancé brought back an onslaught of grief mixed with pity. Kikyo loved Onigumo dearly and thought that she could find love in him to hide her grief over losing Onigumo. But she could never mend her broken heart with the love they shared together.
He snapped out of his thoughts when Kagome turned towards him, her eyes clashing with his, and gave him a confused look. "What are you thinking about?" she asked.
Inuyasha smirked with a chuckle and shook his head. "Nothing. Just wondering where everything had gone so wrong."
Kagome smiled the same and nodded her agreement. Everything had indeed gone wrong, and it all started because of her. If it wasn't for her dragging her friends and family in the war with Kano Mitsuhada then Onigumo would be alive and her sister would be happily living with him and she would be happily living with Inuyasha and everything would be okay. But everything wasn't. Everything was so screwed up that she didn't know how to fix this anymore. She didn't know how she could comfort her sister with her new and old loss, she didn't know how she could mend things with Inuyasha and she didn't know how Kazuki would fit into all of this. She wasn't even sure if she would be able to live long enough to see her son grow up. Sadness swept over her and Kagome had to look away in fear that Inuyasha would catch her. But he did.
"Now what are you thinking about?" Inuyasha asked with a knowing smirk, though he wondered why Kagome was so sad. He could feel that deep emotion beating at him and knew that Kagome was blaming herself for something.
Kagome smiled, though she knew he couldn't see, and shook her head, her hair falling over her shoulders in waves. "Nothing…"
Inuyasha growled and grabbed Kagome's shoulders, turning her so that she was facing him but not looking at him. "Stop lying to me, Kagome. You know I don't like it." His voice was stern, but he couldn't help himself. He didn't want Kagome to lie to him anymore, it hurt him more than he was willing to admit, and it only made a wedge between them.
Kagome frowned and slowly brought her eyes to his, seeing the frustration and anxiety within his orbs. She could feel the warmth his hands caused on her shoulders and the way his aura just mingled with hers. A wanting came from deep within her, and a tingling sensation happened just above her heart where Inuyasha's mark remained on her skin. Then, a jolt of desire flooded through her and Kagome gazed at Inuyasha with more than just understanding, but want. She wanted him more than she wanted anything else in this world. Anything else she could have, gain. But this man was something that she could never have, something that she tried to obtain and hold it against her bones but could never keep him there.
Inuyasha's eyes widened a fraction as the scent of Kagome's arousal came alive and he picked it up immediately. His eyes blazed with heat and desire, just as much as hers did, and he had to take his hands off her shoulders to stop himself from wanting to push her back against the grass and take her. She was already his, as much as she wanted to deny it, but he wanted to savor her body, to feel the joy that she gave him just with her body alone, the completion. But he wasn't sure if that was what Kagome wanted. She already cut him off from her thoughts and feelings and he was afraid to push her to accept him even more, in fear of losing more than just emotions.
The space between them was small, as their legs that were crossed were nearly touching each other, but Kagome felt like it was a great distance between them. She kept her eyes on the ground, unsure of what to do now. Her body was demanding to be with Inuyasha, to be his rock he can fall onto. She wanted to feel his body moving in hers, so right, so real. She wanted it all from him, but knew that she could never get it. But… Kagome chanced a glance at Inuyasha and saw that he was battling his own demons as his eyes glared at the grass in front of him. She could feel the heat rising in his aura and she knew that he had smelt her arousal, how could he not? Just sitting so close to him was making her wet, and she needed him more than she wanted to admit to herself. 'Maybe it's this damn mate thing…' Whatever it was, she felt horny and in so much need for Inuyasha that she felt like she would explode if she didn't have him… now.
Without much thought of the consequences, uncaring of what others thought of her now, Kagome dared her courage and went to her knees. The movement she made caught Inuyasha's gaze as he looked up at her, his eyes heated and in desire. Her womb clenched at the sight of his eyes, making her week in the knees, which she was thankfully kneeling on and not standing on. Kagome smiled tenderly at him and moved closer, getting on both hands as she brought her face towards his. Inuyasha seemed surprised by this, but as her breath caressed his lips, he was the one who closed the gap between them. The searing kiss made Kagome moan and she pushed further against him, both of them wanting each other with a renewed fire of desire.
Inuyasha took the lead now, unable to bear not touching Kagome. He placed his hands on Kagome's shoulders and pushed her back, so now he was in charge. Kagome fell backwards slowly, not wanting to break the kiss they shared. She felt her head lie back on the soft grass and she immediately wrapped her arms around Inuyasha's neck, arching her breasts towards him in invitation. She heard Inuyasha's growl of approval, only earning a moan from her, and then he was spearing her mouth with his tongue. She couldn't help but feel like every inch of her skin was on fire, so much desire in her for this one man. It definitely had something to do with Inuyasha's mark, now she was for certain. Every cell in her was alive with desire for him, and she wanted him so much that she began to writhe beneath him.
Inuyasha took his time, letting his hands explore Kagome's body. She had on a black t-shirt and black shorts, her bare legs wrapping themselves around his thighs to bring him closer to her core. He could have sworn he felt Kagome's heat through his clothes, his erection straining to be within her. But he held himself back, wanting to savor the feel of her while he could. He could make love to her forever, but now, for just a few minutes, would have to do. Inuyasha explored her mouth while his hands explored her curves. Such beautiful curves, all his. He reached to find the hem of her shirt and lifted it up her body, breaking the kiss for just a few minutes to get the clothing off. Kagome lifted off the ground and captured his lips, not wanting to be separated, and he smiled at her aggressiveness. 'Kagome…' She wanted him with just as much fire as he wanted her. Their bond was stronger now that he had made her his, and she could feel every bit of desire that he had always felt for her, both multiplied by their mating bond.
Her curves were sweet as Inuyasha found the back of Kagome's bra and unclipped it, letting her breasts fall free from its restraints. Kagome wiggled out of it while moaning into the kiss, begging for him to remain at her lips. Inuyasha could hardly think with his desire so tightly contained, he felt like he was going to rip out of his zipper. But Kagome came first, always came first in his life. Inuyasha kneaded her breasts, bringing both into tight tips, and then he retreated from her mouth. Kagome nearly cried out, though she didn't know whether it was because she missed the lost of his mouth or because now his mouth was suckling her breasts. Whatever the reason, she brought her fingers into his hair and began massaging his scalp now that she felt the wonderful sensations of his mouth. Her womb was tight with desire, waiting to envelop him in her warmth and love. But Inuyasha was taking his time, dammit.
"Inu…yasha…" Kagome moaned, earning a small grunt from him against her breast. "Stop… teasing me…" she pleaded, wanting him inside of her.
Inuyasha chuckled against her right breast, bringing his cheek against it to rub against the soft mound. "I'm not teasing you, Koi. I'm loving you."
Kagome shook her head back and forth. "No…"
Inuyasha chuckled. "Just let me love you, Koi." Kagome gave up to the feel of his hands and mouth as he began to kiss his way down to her stomach and then lower while his hands began to unbutton and unzip her shorts. She felt his fingers get under her panties and in one long move, took off her shorts, letting her wiggle her legs free. Inuyasha then came back on her, pushing her legs up and over his shoulders so he could have his prize.
Inuyasha nearly came in his pants when he saw Kagome's sex glistening wet and ready for his taking. 'Mine.' His tongue darted forward and the first sweet taste of her entered, making him growl in pleasure at the taste of her. He felt Kagome buck off the grass and he held her down by her hips, wanting her to stay still while he had his fill of her. But he just couldn't get enough. He lapped at her in every which way, trying to get more of her, and soon he was fingering her. Her moans increased and he felt her walls tighten on his fingers. Inuyasha took one last lick against her clit and felt Kagome explode, her cries entering his ears in pure pleasure. Inuyasha lapped up her come, wanting more from her.
"Inuyasha… stop…" Kagome begged, not wanting his tongue anymore but more of his body. Kagome squirmed against his hands, not getting anywhere. His strength was enormous, yet he wasn't hurting her. He was just dominating her, claiming her for his own. And she flew into the stars above her with another climax. As Kagome came back down from her high, she looked up to see a naked Inuyasha and his heated golden eyes staring down at her with such intensity that she smiled up at him with love. "I love you, Inu…"
Inuyasha smiled, his eyes reflecting her own, and she knew that he felt the same way. "I love you too, Kagome," he said as he took her in one, long stroke, claiming her mouth with his own. Kagome moaned against his lips, and as he withdrew, he felt her walls shutter at the invasion of his body. He released her lips and kissed his way down to her neck, taking a deep sniff of her scent, drawing it into his lungs to stay. Inuyasha braced himself on his elbows and began to pump into her, groaning at the tight feel of her walls squeezing him. She was so tight, so warm, and so nice around him.
"God, Kagome…" he ground out through clenched teeth. Kagome arched into his chest and matched his tempo as her desire only increased with the feel of him inside of her. But Inuyasha wanted more, and he could feel the wildness in Kagome. He didn't know whether or not it was because of his mark, but she was more aggressive now than she has ever been. Inuyasha moaned and rolled with her in his arms so that she was now straddling him, her eyes wide with wonder as she sat on top of him. "Ride me," he demanded, and she did.
Kagome felt her breasts bounce as she rode Inuyasha, feeling his body so deep in hers that she nearly cried at the intensity of her emotions. She loved him. She missed him. And she didn't want to leave him. This moment would last forever, even though it would end tonight. Kagome arched her back as she hit her spot and Inuyasha's hands grasped her hips, making her ride him harder. She was close to coming, and she could tell he was too. As Kagome looked down at him, Inuyasha's silver hair was ignited by the small light of the moon. It was bright against the dark of the night, making his face shine. She saw the creases around his mouth and the lines on his forehead, and she knew that he was close to his climax, and she would follow him there. Her womb was clenching so tightly now that she felt like she would explode, but she kept riding him.
Inuyasha looked up at Kagome and nearly froze at the sight of her. The stars above her only helped to give her an angelic look, her dark, raven hair spilling around her like a halo. The crescent moon was high above her, unable to shine her up like an angel, but enough to help with the light of Kagome's features. The Shikon no Tama laid against her chest, hitting against her as she bounced on him. She was so beautiful that his heart constricted with the amount of love he felt for her. Inuyasha groaned and bucked his hips against Kagome, feeling his release soon.
"Kagome…" Kagome gazed down at him, placing her hands on his chest and rode him harder, feeling her release take hold of her. And then they were both exploding together, calling out each other's names, flying together, hand in hand, against the darkness of the land. Kagome fell onto Inuyasha's chest, both of them heaving in breaths of air to help pass the moment of distortion. They were both spent and satiated, both unable to get up, or maybe not wanting to. Inuyasha's hands came up to wrap around Kagome's naked form, easing her off of him, and feeling himself slip out of her heat, and then brought her against him. He reached for his shirt and brought it around Kagome, marveling at how small she looked in his shirt. His shirt went down to her thighs, covering her body from the coolness of the night. He looked to see Kagome's eyes were closed in bliss and a small smile was lit on her face.
"Feel better now?" he asked, watching as Kagome's teeth showed with brilliance.
She opened her eyes slowly, and Inuyasha saw the satisfaction and weariness in her chestnut orbs. "Yes…" Inuyasha smirked and ran his left hand along her cheek, marveling at its smoothness. Kagome just watched him with fascination, his eyes, his cheeks, and his sensuous mouth. She giggled, making Inuyasha arch his eyebrow in confusion, but smile.
"Do you think we could ever do this again?" she asked, wondering if her dream of being with him would ever come true, and stay that way until her dying days. She watched as Inuyasha smiled and nodded.
"Yeah, I think so. Why, do you want to do this again? We can always go for round two…" he proposed, though the look in Kagome's eyes made him laugh.
"You've got to be kidding me," she said with weariness. Kagome closed her eyes and she rubbed her head against his chest, feeling the warmth he provided from his body and shirt. "I've never felt so… alive."
Inuyasha chuckled and gazed up at the stars. "Yeah, you could say that. You did look like an angel to me."
Kagome opened her eyes and gazed at the side of his face, noting the way it looked like it should be carved into a stone and become a fine piece of art. "How?"
Inuyasha smiled as he gazed at the many stars. "When you were riding me," Kagome blushed, "the stars made you look so… surreal. And the moon made you glow." Kagome blushed even more at his comments, feeling beautiful within his arms.
He turned to the side to see Kagome's flushed face and smiled. "You are beautiful, Kagome. You are everything to me." Kagome could only smile thankfully at him, her eyes showing her deep love for him. He smiled and kissed her softly, a sweet taste after what they shared. He relaxed back with Kagome in his arms and closed his eyes, giving up to the need to stay in this one moment of time with her for just a bit longer.
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Raige's head went up in an instant, and within a few seconds he had crossed the distance between him and one of the demon generals. He was face to face with the demon, his hard gaze looking into the demon's ones which were filled with unflinching emotions.
"You do not seem to fear me," Raige commented with little satisfaction. He watched as the general just smirked, the right side of his lips coming up to taunt him, and then there was nothing left on his face.
"No, Raige. I do not fear you." The comment was made so matter-of-factly that Raige nearly felt a vein in his head tick at the demon's brazen words. He had to smirk, though, at the thought of this demon's foolishness. He chuckled and then backed off, putting distance between them again. He kept his back towards the demon as the army that he commanded waited for their general's command. However, the problem here was that the general wasn't in the mood to take commands from anyone. Which was why they were here, now, squaring off against each other like two rival Inu-Taiyoukai seeking dominance on each other. But this demon was a full-blooded bat demon, so there was a huge difference with that concept.
"You know, General Makoto… I do not like the fact that you do not fear me."
The General smirked and shifted his weight, his brown haori and hakama shuffling in the process. "I know. I can sense your anger and irritation."
The comment was made to taunt him, and it surely worked on his nerves. Too quick for the human eye, Raige turned back around and glared at the General, trying to use everything he had in him to stand his ground and not slice the general's head off. He needed the General for his army, that was all. So for now, he would just have to deal with this demon's attitude. But in the end, if the General somehow survives through this, he will gladly kill him.
"Let us say that you and I are not going to become good friends," Raige said. His eyes were seething with rage, but he held in his desire to fulfill it. The General seemed pleased with this and relaxed after he had been ready to take on Raige's anger. However, one thing was for certain. He wasn't going to back down to this demon who thought he ruled everyone. He had never met this demon named Raige, never even heard of him, and yet here, out of the blue, he summons all these demon lords to battle against the High Priestess for the Shikon no Tama. The only reason why he came was for that prize alone. The news had made a few reports about the High Priestess who had come back to life, who had saved millions three years ago from Kano Mitsuhada. Now that the High Priestess was out in the open, many demons would know who she was, where she lived, all thanks to human technology that made it so easy to find personal information about a human being. However, the General was more interested in starting a war where bloodshed would occur then actually taking the easy route.
"Go…" Raige said, fed up with the General's attitude. They were standing on the beach across from Honshu, the waves loud as it crashed onto the shore. He turned around and gazed at the land before him, the mountains rising to touch the clouds. He would have to put the General in the mountains since he was a bat demon and could fly, figuratively speaking. "I want you on those mountains," he instructed.
The General cocked his eyebrow, but didn't say a word as he smirked. He turned around to look at his army, about two hundred demons that would fight for him for one cause. These demons had been loyal to him for hundreds of years, and though some had died off over time or had decided to change to a different lifestyle, he still respected all of those who served him. "Let us go." The demons all nodded their heads, all wearing the same respected color as the General, except they had red along the hems of the haori. Once the General began to move forward, everyone else followed behind him.
Raige watched without interest as the group began to make their way towards the mountains. He held in his sigh, and frustration. Though he knew he wouldn't have as many men as he had hoped, probably not as much as Kano had once had when he started the war three years ago, he did have some help from the available demons who wanted more power. And that was enough. Raige turned back around and gazed over the glistening ocean that separated him from the main island, Honshu. A small smile lit his face as another boat could be seen making its way towards him. By nightfall, everything would be in place, and all he would need is the guest of honor, the spotlight of his being. 'Kagome…' he thought, wondering what she was doing now. The morning sun continued to creep its way up into the heavens, shinning its light down on him as Raige closed his eyes and took in a deep, relieving breath, thinking about the future.
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The noise within Swan Lake was turned up a notch when an announcer finally came on stage. The stadium was packed with Mayonaka fans and those who wanted to catch a glimpse of the High Priestess. Everyone began to cheer for the announcer as the sound of the microphone being moved could be heard reverberating around the room and making the crowd cheer for the band who was being introduced.
"Ladies and Gentlemen," the male announcer said, his deep voice booming through the room. "I would like to introduce, Japan's one and only…" the crowd began to pick up their screams as the room blazed with the cheer of fans, "Mayonaka!" The stage felt like it trembled from the vibration of the fan's cheers, all watching on the screens and at the little figures themselves as the three members of Mayonaka were shown under the spotlight above them. The light started from the entrance into a tunnel that led to the backstage rooms in the building. The performers wouldn't have to walk down the many aisles from the main entrance into the auditorium, but only have to take a restricted access through the closed doors that were under the screaming fans. Once Mayonaka made their way onto stage, the many colorful lights began to play along the walls and the people in the auditorium. Their blood began to pump with excitement from the colors, watching excitedly as Mayonaka made their way to their instruments waiting from them on stage.
The leader of the band stepped up to his microphone, shrugging the strap of his guitar along his shoulder until he felt relaxed and comfortable, his lips near the mic. "How's everyone doing today?" A roar of voices echoed throughout the room, making Inuyasha smile as he turned around to see that Miroku and Koga were at their instruments and ready. They both smiled at him with a nod, ready to get the show on the road. He turned back towards the microphone and played a note, hearing the reaction from the crowd only intensify. "How about we start today off with a little flashback?" The melody from one of Mayonaka's first album songs came on and the crowd cheered, remembering the days when those songs used to be on the top charts for weeks.
Up in the front row at the bottom, Kira looked around at the group that contained her family and friends. She then turned to her son, leaning in to shout her question. When Souta noticed she wanted to tell him something, he leaned towards her as well. "Where's Kagome?"
Souta shrugged, remembering what Kikyo had told him about Kagome. "She said that she had to make a call. Kazuki stayed with her," he shouted back, and saw that his mother understood as she nodded. He smiled encouragingly, wanting her to have fun and not worry, which she took with gratitude. The two then looked back up on the stage as Inuyasha and Miroku both tuned together to sing their parts.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Back in Inuyasha's dressing room, Kagome was fidgeting with her light green dress. The cotton fabric was delicately clinging to her curves, making her feel the smooth brush all over her body. It went down to her knees and she wore matching green high heels with straps that twisted around her ankle. Her matching earrings only told stories of how the girls had gotten together and had fun dressing up, just like old times. Kazuki was currently drawing something at the counter with the mirrors, sitting on a chair that Kagome had pumped up so that the seat of the chair was the same height of the counter. Kazuki sat with a smile on his face, doodling on a piece of paper and humming with the tune of the song that echoed in the walls from the band playing outside. He gazed up, looking at his mother in the mirror as she paced back and forth behind him, only earning a small giggle from him.
When Kagome heard a child's laughter, she gazed up to the mirror to see Kazuki staring at her with a child's amusement. She smiled lovingly, seeing him dressed so nicely in a black jeans and a dark blue t-shirt with a golden dragon along his chest. He had on black shoes as well, making him seem so tough and masculine for such a small thing. Kagome smiled one last time encouragingly and watched as Kazuki bent his head to continue his drawing.
Turning around, Kagome faced the back of the dressing room, walking as far away from Kazuki as she could, though she knew he still could hear her. "What do you mean, Brother? They've begun?" There was shock and fascination in her voice as her wide eyes stared at a painting that remained on the wall, one of a few.
"Yes," Monk Kiyoshi said on the phone. "I am afraid, My Lady, that Raige has already begun with his preparations and is gathering more hands for this war."
Kagome could literally feel her knees go weak with exhaustion of caring a heavy burden, but for some odd reason she still remained standing. Her brain was working too fast, trying to answer too many questions that were racing through her mind. "How many?"
There was a silence at the other end of the line, which Kagome knew wasn't good. She waited for her Brother to speak, hoping that he would tell her something good out of the bad that he was bound to disclose. "Many."
Her breath left her in a rush and she closed her eyes in anguish. 'Many…' That meant that Raige had an army, maybe more, of hundreds of demons on his side. And that thought alone only made Kagome bring out her free hand to lean against the wall, unsure if she would be able to stand after this. "How do you know?" she whispered, hoping that her Brother heard her.
"Our Brothers could feel the disturbance nearby. It felt like many demonic auras moving in one mass together. It started yesterday morning, only a few groups throughout the day. However, during nightfall it had increased. The masses of demonic energy were so strong that our Brothers knew it had to be Raige and his demons. Whatever is going on, it is not good, My Lady."
Kagome sighed heavily, feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders already. If the movement of demonic energy had started from yesterday morning, then by now Raige would have many demons on his side and ready for a war. It would be just like Kano, so many demons and yet so little on their side. The thought alone only brought Kagome into a deeper mood, which Kazuki sensed.
Turning around in his chair, Kazuki peeked over to see his mother's back towards him, but her head was down. He could feel her sadness, confusion and she seemed tired all of a sudden. "How long do you think we have until they do something?" he heard her say, but then the mumbling from the phone he couldn't pick up. Kazuki frowned, wondering why his mother was so tired and sad, but then decided not to ask. She was too far away, which meant that she was trying to get out of his hearing range, but to no avail. He could hear her, he just didn't know what to make out of it.
"I see…" Kagome said with a sigh. "Thank you, Brother. We will leave as soon as tomorrow." Kagome closed her phone brought her hand against the wall, leaning her weight on both hands as she needed the solidity of the wall to hold her up. Something had to hold her up when she felt like the world was coming down. 'Many demons.' Kano had many demons, a lot that she has never seen before, that had been created. Raige would have many demons, but the difference here is that his demons would be that of this world, had been borne and raised on Earth where knowledge could gain one's power. And that was all that she needed. Ancient demons who knew many battle tactics, strategies, combat, anything that could be of use to any of their sides and allow one side to win. Kagome closed her eyes in pain. 'If worse comes to worse,' which she was already thinking it would, 'I will have to use the jewel.' She would have to tell her mother tonight about everything that's going and tell Inutaisho to prepare his forces for a war tomorrow.
"Okaa?"
The sound of Kazuki's tiny voice lifted the weight off Kagome's shoulders as her whole attention was now on her child. She moved back from the wall and turned around with a smile to gaze at her son, looking so frightened and worried in his chair. He was facing her over the back of the chair, his small figure seeming so small in that seat. Kagome's heart turned over for her son, wondering and hoping beyond hope that she could remain here with him, to give him the mother that he never had.
"Yes, sweetheart," she said, making her way towards him in the chair. She placed her hand on the back of the seat as Kazuki gazed up at her with wonder.
"Why are you sad, Okaa?"
The innocence in his voice brought on a swell of love and regret. Kagome shook her head, not thinking anymore about what was to come, and thinking only about her son and Inuyasha's concert happening now. "Nothing for you to worry about," she said with a smile. Kagome opened her hands and Kazuki happily climbed in her arms, carefully trying not to wrinkle his mother's dress. She smiled at him and then kissed his forehead, and walked out of his father's dressing room into the hallway of the backstage. They made their way past directors and crew members, talking about the music that they heard blaring around them as they excitedly went towards the auditorium doors.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Back in the auditorium, the drums were blaring with bass as the crowd moved enthusiastically to the beat of Mayonaka's song. The voices of each member could be easily identified and the fans cheered for their favorite member, the voice enthralling and sexy. Down on the bottom, blocked off by velvet rope, three rows of seats and an area for people to stand next to the stage comfortably, without being squished together, made up the backstage passes members.
The families were all sitting together, as each row of seats were cut off into sections to allow the stairway to allow the people to walk in and out of the auditorium. Kira turned when she saw Kagome walking towards them, avoiding the crowd next to her as much as she could with Kazuki in her arms. A smile was on her face as Kazuki kept pointing at the stage, making Kagome laugh at his childish energy.
Kira smiled welcomingly as Kagome smiled down at her and then took her seat, placing Kazuki next to her and Kikyo. "Where were you?" Kira asked over the blaring music.
"I had to make a quick phone call," Kagome explained in little detail than need be, and Kira smiled with a nod of understanding. Kagome was glad she didn't pester, and turned toward the stage to gaze at the three boys playing so energetically with their instruments. The love in their music could be clearly seen in their faces and body language. Inuyasha took a glance their way and their eyes sought each other. His smile was big and Kagome could only smile back, watching as he turned to his microphone to sing his part. His voice blared throughout the room, reminding her of the days when she had done this with so much energy and excitement, a teenager's love for freedom and fun.
Her thoughts then brought her back to the present as Kagome turned towards her son and told him to stay with his aunt. Kazuki nodded with a smile, too enthralled in the blaring of the band's music, not wanting to go anywhere else but here. Kagome smiled with a shake of her head, seeing how much her son loved music just as much as his father. She stood up and turned around to the second row where the Takahashi's were, her eyes connecting with Inutaisho's. Her smile was small, but it was there for him to interpret, and then she turned to head back to the backstage doors. Once Kagome went through the doors, Inutaisho excused himself and stood, making Sesshomaru watch his father with interest as to why Kagome needed to talk to him.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Inutaisho opened one of the double doors and spotted Kagome leaning her back against the wall in front of him. He smiled at one of the auditorium workers as they walked past him to the outside. Once the doors closed, the sound of the music wasn't as bad. Inutaisho walked towards Kagome, watching as she still didn't look up at him but kept her eyes down on the ground. He saw that she was frowning, and knew that this wasn't something good. He kept a few feet between them, but close enough where they could talk without letting others listen in on their conversation. Workers were constantly talking on their headphones or walking back and forth to do their job. Inutaisho leaned his back against the wall just like Kagome, placing his hands against his lower back, and waited.
Kagome drew from Inutaisho's aura, filling hers with strength and courage. One thing she loved about this man is his undetermined need to protect those he loved, which they had in common. Once she had the strength to tell him the bad news, Kagome spoke with resolve instead of what she really felt: exhaustion.
"Raige has begun gathering demons for his army."
"How long ago?"
"It started yesterday morning. My Brothers had felt the movement of groups of demonic energy and knew that bands were moving together towards the south. Last night, the movements and amounts only increased in size. They are still continuing today."
"Do your Brothers know where they are going?"
Kagome nodded her head. "To Shikoku Island."
Inutaisho thought this through. If the demons were all heading there, that means that Raige expects Kagome to know this and go there herself. But then why would Raige just expect that of Kagome? If Raige was the one who wanted Kagome to go to him then he would have to do something to get her attention. Bringing his army to one location is not a way of getting her attention. "Is your Brothers protected?"
Kagome frowned, wondering why he would ask a question. After thinking it through, her eyes widened and she turned to gaze at Inutaisho with worry. "Do you think Raige will attack the Ise Shrine again?" The thought of her Brothers being injured, again, only made her insides cringe. If Raige were to attack the shrine, he would get there quicker than she would because the island was closer to Ise than Tokyo.
Inutaisho reacted to Kagome's aura, trying to calm her down with his. Kagome responded well to the contact, understanding that he wanted to help her, but he could still see the worry in her eyes. "I do not know for sure. But Raige will want you to know that he is waiting for you. Somehow, he will make his point known and he will find a way to catch your attention." Inutaisho began to wonder about what Raige would do, if he was Raige, but that demon was just something out of the ordinary, ever since his conception and Inutaisho didn't know what to think about that demon's plans.
"Whatever his moves may intend to be, I know that all he wants is me," Kagome said, looking back towards the ground with worry and exhaustion. She would have to go to him before he made any moves on those she loved. "Tomorrow morning we set out for Shikoku."
Inutaisho nodded his head, taking out his cell phone from his pants pocket to start calling his demon lords. "I will make the arrangements." Kagome turned to the sound of his voice and Inutaisho was already talking on his cell phone. She only smiled at his assertiveness and determination. She would miss him dearly if something were to happen. Kagome sighed, shaking the thought out of her head. She couldn't be thinking about that when she had everyone who counted on her to stay alive.
Kagome pushed herself off the wall and went towards the double doors, leaving Inutaisho alone to make his calls. She knew she could count on him to have friends who were willing to help him after the many years he had with other demon lords. As the music filled her ears, she couldn't think about anything else but the music and the band members that were playing on stage. She walked back towards her chair and smiled down at Kazuki who was beaming at her, bouncing in his seat to the music. She giggled, her eyes catching Kikyo's ones as she slowly sat down. Kikyo had a curious gaze, probably wondering what was going on, but she just smiled at her sister and turned towards the stage to watch Mayonaka.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
The sun was setting, the sky turning into an array of colors. The cars were honking their irritating noises on the busy streets of Tokyo, so overpopulated that it overcrowded his senses and made him want to growl in disgust. How is it that the world could have changed so greatly like this? Humans obviously had something to do with the development, and he only wanted nothing more but the beautiful, lush land that had once engulfed this whole region of Tokyo.
Standing on one of the skyscrapers, gazing out at the setting sun making its descent behind a mountain, he smirked and then walked off the side of the building. He plummeted quickly, but when he hit the ground, it barely looked like he had just fallen from 250 stories. He touched the ground like a feather, his hair falling behind him slowly until it dropped against his back. Thankfully, no one was around on this side of the building as he made his way down the street and around a block until he was facing the building that he had wanted to see the whole day. He smirked. 'Does not look like I was invited.' He kept a smirk on his face as he made his way towards the double-glass doors that invited guests. The doors automatically slid open and he continued along the lush, brown carpet towards the blazing music that he heard up ahead.
"Excuse me, sir."
He kept walking, ignoring the pestering human that continually got in his way.
"Excuse me, uh, sir. I… I can't let you in. Do you have a ticket?"
He finally stopped, making the man stop in his frantic attempt to stop him, and then he gazed at the human next to him dressed in a fine tuxedo. Without warning, the man was blasted away by his energy, flying towards the front desk as his legs flew towards his chest and his back hit the wall hard. He dropped his smirk, now irritated, and continued on. But now he had three security guards to deal with, three big men who were blocking the new glass doors behind them. He sighed inwardly and walked towards them.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
The crowd was still on their feet and bouncing energetically, as if the day hadn't even gone by as it had. Mayonaka was playing their last song for the day, their clothes sticking to them from sweat and shear satisfaction. There were two guards at each double-glass doors that remained at the top of the auditorium, waiting for the concert to be over so they could help with the filing out of fans to make a smooth transition to close the evening. Everyone still hadn't gotten enough from Mayonaka and was still eagerly wanting more, swaying and screaming for the band to fulfill their wishes.
With a start, Kagome gasped and stood up quickly, her eyes going to the top of the stadium. She could feel a strong demonic aura, very close, and she immediately recognized who it belonged to. 'Oh no!' Kagome's eyes widened and she whipped her head around, her hair flying behind her. Inutaisho and Sesshomaru had already gotten to their feet as they had sensed Kagome's distressed, but she was making her way to the stage.
Inutaisho exchanged a look with his eldest son and they both gazed up at the entrance into the auditorium at the same time. "He is here." Sesshomaru nodded, remembering the demon's aura as if it was yesterday that they had first met. His face was stoic as he followed his father, both of them covering the long distance in one great leap. No one noticed, let alone cared, as they were too enthralled with the music.
Kagome ran up the stairs that led to the stage, her dress flying against her in her attempt to warn everyone. Her senses were raging at her and the jewel against her neck was starting to pick up on her distress. It began to give off its energy as it glowed a light pink, swirling with distress as she was. The vibration of the drums and the bass she could feel through her heels, but Kagome ran towards Inuyasha. She passed between Koga and Miroku, both of them watching her with shock at her swift approach, and their keys missed a beat. When Inuyasha noticed the wrong tune, he turned around and saw Kagome right behind him, her face filled with anxiety and distress. He faltered in his own strum and his voice cracked as he gazed at Kagome with shock and wonder as to why she was on stage.
"Inuyasha… we have to get these people out of here now," she said to him, though now that the place was quieter without the beating of the instruments, her voice floated around the room. Even the fans quieted a bit as they wondered why Mayonaka wasn't playing. Up on the screens one of the cameras had zoomed in on Kagome and Inuyasha as they heard Kagome's voice.
As Inuyasha was about to ask what the hell was going on, a blast sounded up ahead at the entrance towards the auditorium and all eyes fell on the explosion as the glass door burst and splinters of glass flew towards the first few rows of people. Everyone began to scream and the place erupted into a frenzy as people began to fear whatever had caused that explosion. But Kagome and Inuyasha could see what had happened as Inutaisho and Sesshomaru both did a somersault in the air as they flew above them towards the screens high above. Kagome's eyes widened in fear, not for herself, but for everyone in this room. 'No…'
As if on cue of her fear, a figure appeared from the grey dust that began to disintegrate. Kagome's breath caught in her throat as her fear came alive by the sight of that one demon. Raige held a smirk on his face, his blue eyes scanning the many people that were running away from him and up towards the other doors that held freedom. As his eyes clashed with Kagome's, the smirk only grew and her eyes widened.
Fear for the people, Kagome sprang into action as she saw the intention clear in Raige's eyes. She watched as his hand moved out in front of him, and ran towards him, hitting the edge of the stage with her right leg, calling upon the power of the jewel to aid her, and she pushed herself into the air. She began to chant under her breath, hoping to intersect his attack, but before Kagome could reach the height that he was in, Raige had released his blue ball of lightning and it flew across the room, towards the fleeing people. A burst of destruction sounded behind Kagome but she couldn't focus on the people that were sure to be killed. Right now, she had to stop Raige from this madness. Once she finally got to his height, her green dress floating around her thighs, she clapped her palms together, linked her fingers, but kept her indexes and thumbs firm against each other as she pointed her indexes down at Raige.
A bright blue light emitted from Kagome's fingers as she shot her miko energy at him, Raige nearly missing the quick beam of pure energy. This got him riled up, angrier at himself than at Kagome for nearly getting hit from that one attack. Raige moved to the side and glared up at Kagome, kicking off towards her with his demonic speed. Kagome tried to put up a barrier around herself but he was too quick, knocking the wind out of her as they flew back. Raige had his shoulder against her gut, making Kagome grunt at the pressure of the impact and her hair flew into her face as they fell back towards the stands.
"You are too slow, Kagome," Raige mocked, his face at her back as he gazed ahead at where they were going to land. But he felt a demonic energy nearing and threw Kagome out of his arms, flying above to avoid the claws that would have easily torn into his back from Sesshomaru's claws.
Inuyasha leapt into the air, seeing Kagome flying towards the stands, and grabbed her before she could hit. He held her against him as he fell back down on the first floor, holding her bridal style as he glared up at Raige now fighting with his father.
"Inuyasha," Kagome said, nudging her way out of his hold. He gently let her down and looked her over to make sure that she wasn't injured. "You need to get my family out of here."
"They've already left. Koga and Miroku made sure of it." Inuyasha looked at Kagome's worried eyes and knew that she was more worried for everyone else besides herself, even though it was obvious that Raige came for her. He grabbed her right arm, making Kagome pay attention to him than what was happening out there. "I want you to leave this to me, my father and my brother."
Kagome shook her head. "No. Raige is too powerful for you, for even your father." To prove her point, she turned her head to see that Inutaisho and Raige were flying quickly in the air, their bodies barely seen but upon impact you could see the two. They used their demonic energy and any weapons they had from their aura to use against each other. Kagome could see Inutaisho's light green poison whip slashing against Raige's own blue poison whip. The neon colors were distinctive in the air, and the sound of screams was still in her ears.
"Kagome…"
"No, Inuyasha!" Kagome's heated eyes flew towards him, making him release her arm at her outburst. "I know that you're worried about me, but you can't think like that right now." Kagome saw the deep concern still in his golden eyes and she had to stop herself from throwing her arms around him and comforting his fears. "We need to get these people out of here first." She gazed around at the people still trying to escape the battlefield that was happening in the auditorium. The rubble from Raige's attack was still a harsh reminder that Kagome had failed to protect these innocent people, but she would protect the others.
Once Inuyasha saw the determination in Kagome's eyes, he knew that he would have to support her. Plus, from what he had seen just now, he knew that Kagome would take care of herself, just like how she had done three years ago. "Okay." She turned around to show him her shocked eyes, which quickly turned into thankfulness and a smile. "I've got the right," he said, leaving no time for her to agree as he was already running towards one of the exits, trying to help the people get out without running over each other. Kagome watched for a second and then turned in the other direction and ran towards the closest door to help the people out.
Up in the air, Inutaisho and Raige were dueling with their whips, their silver hairs glowing from the lights that blared on them.
"It seems like you are very experienced in this, Raige," Inutaisho said through acknowledgement, still wanting to test the waters with Raige's power to see how much this demon knew.
Raige couldn't contain his smirk as he lashed out at Inutaisho, only for it to be deflected by Inutaisho's whip. "Well thank you for that comment, Inutaisho. I never knew I would be praised by the Great Inutaisho."
"It was not a praise," Inutaisho said, his face an unreadable mask as he continuously tried to get a hit on Raige, to no avail. "I am simply stating the fact, and how much it confuses me to know that you, who had been sealed away in a mirror portal, could so easily fight against me without years of knowledge and experience."
"Oh I have knowledge and experience, Inutaisho," Raige said, clearly having fun with this demon. "But it is not the kind that you would consider, 'normal'." His whip hit against Inutaisho's over and over and he was getting sick with this boring game. No blood was being shed, which was the whole purpose why he had come here. The woman came into his mind and Raige felt around for her aura, sensing it behind him. With one last look at Inutaisho, Raige whipped out one last lash, forcing Inutaisho to block the attack, giving Raige the scant seconds needed to get towards Kagome.
"Hurry! Hurry, everyone!" Kagome yelled, trying to get her voice heard above all the havoc. Everyone was shoving against each other, trying to get through and out of the auditorium after witnessing what Raige had done to some of the fans. Kagome was bumped and pushed as she was too near the crowd, but she was worried for their safety. And then she felt his aura. Kagome turned towards the direction she felt the incoming aura and spotted Raige sizzling through the air towards her. He smirked at her and threw two energy balls towards her, watching as it sizzled through the air, its power electrifying the air itself, and waited for it to destroy the humans below.
Kagome placed her hands in front of her chest, creating an oval shape, and a barrier immediately flew up, as the two energies clashed in a show of colors. The two energy balls were diminished, disappearing into thin air as Kagome's barrier remained erected above the many humans around her. Though most were oblivious to what was happening, not wanting to know, some were stopping to turn around and watch the fight with fascination and awe.
"It seems that I have underestimated you, Kagome," Raige said, a clear smirk on his face.
"Indeed you have, Raige," Kagome said, watching as Sesshomaru and Inutaisho now went to Raige's back, but the demon moved just before they could land a strike. She trusted the two to take care of Raige while she made sure that the people were out of the auditorium. She glanced at the other entrances and noticed Inuyasha at one, trying his best to keep the crowd going. She then turned around and focused on her own.
Inutaisho, Sesshomaru and Raige fought in the air, the demons moving so quickly that their movements could barely be spotted with the human eye. Sesshomaru tried to attack from the back as Inutaisho got the front, but Raige was too swift and cunning to fall for a strike. However, the two Inu-Taiyoukais fought together, trying to land a strike on Raige as he humorlessly danced from their attacks. Which made Inutaisho only irritated and fed up. After tracking Raige's moves, he saw an opening and took it. Inutaisho struck from below with his claws, tearing against Raige's right shoulder, stunning the demon as Raige froze with shock on his face. This gave Sesshomaru the opportunity to plunge his right hand through Raige's stomach, his hand going through the demon's gut and plunging out the other side. Sesshomaru flexed his fingers with satisfaction as Raige just remained stunned and a bit stoic as he stared down at Sesshomaru's fingers sticking out of his stomach.
Sesshomaru withdrew his hand harshly, earning the sound of guts and bones breaking in the process, and his hand dripped with blood. Inutaisho and Sesshomaru moved back a few feet, as all three demons hovered in the air with the use of their demonic energy at their feet. Raige remained between the two, now gaining a smirk on his face.
"My, my. I am quite impressed that you two finally could land a blow on me." He gazed down at the hole in his stomach and chuckled. "And a big blow at that." He gazed up to see Inutaisho's stoic face, clouded with irritation and anger, and he nearly laughed. "Father and son working together to defeat a demon, how lovely."
Raige lifted his right hand in the air, his eyes solely fixed on Inutaisho's, as he was content with staring into the demon's golden eyes. "I think it is time that we end this boring game, shall we?" Swirls of blue and black energy began to form in the air around Raige, coming to swirl around his body and up towards his palm that was open wide and faced towards the ceiling. There, in the middle of his palm, a dark blue-black ball began to form from the swirling mist of energy. Inutaisho and Sesshomaru fell back towards the stands, gazing up at Raige, waiting for his attack to hit them.
Kagome whirled around, her senses picking up the growing demonic energy in the room. It was too great to hold and she knew it would be a huge attack that he was preparing. She gasped and hurried the few remaining people out of the doors. 'I only have a few seconds to get them out and get down to the others.' Miroku and Koga were already down there and she noticed Inuyasha running towards them, since the room was already quiet with few remaining people. Once the last person went through the doors Kagome whipped around and ran down each step as best as she could without falling, especially in these damn heels, which she wondered now why she had worn them. She glanced up and saw Raige's ball of energy already growing in size as it was half as big as he was. 'Shit!' Cursing her shoes to Hell, Kagome moved as quickly as she could to the stage.
Miroku and Koga both looked up with shock as Raige remained hovered high above with a growing ball of energy in his hand. "What the hell is he doing?" Koga asked, his eyes wide with wonder and anger at the demon's attacks.
Miroku shook his head, taking a few steps back as he felt the strong demonic energy that was building in the room. "Definitely nothing good. This is too much demonic aura." He turned towards the sound of running footsteps and saw Inuyasha jump onto the stage and land gracefully right next to them.
"Is everyone gone?" he asked, worried for his family.
Miroku nodded his head. "Koga and I got them out and into the limos. We sent them to the shrine." Inuyasha nodded his understanding and then glanced above at Raige.
"What the hell is he doing?"
"Papa! Sesshomaru!" Everyone turned towards the sound of Kagome's voice as she came running towards the stage. Inuyasha met her at the edge and lifted her up, seeing her eyes filled with fear and anxiety. He didn't have time to ask before his father and Sesshomaru were already on the stage with them.
Kagome walked towards the center of the stage, already going within herself to call upon the power of the jewel. "Everyone stay close to me. Don't move. And whatever you do, don't leave the barrier." Everyone obeyed, going close to Kagome as they all crowded towards the middle of the stage in a circle around her. Kagome had already drawn within herself, standing like a statue in the middle of the stage, so unshaken and beautiful. Slowly, her hands linked with each other as they rose towards her chest, the tips of her indexes touching each other as were the tips of her thumbs. She kept her fingers close to her, summoning the power of the Shikon no Tama as her own as she concentrated on putting up a barrier. Raige's ball of energy was already growing in strength and it would have to be released soon, unable to be held back from the growing amount of energy.
Raige gazed down at the group with a smirk, wondering how Kagome would try to stop this attack. Once he felt his attack grow too much, he gazed down at the group with satisfaction at his win. "Black Shadow…" Raige released the ball of energy just as the swirling twist of blue and black began to swirl around the ball that was quickly descending towards the group. The blue was dark, combining with the black to swirl with evil. It looked like a twister had sucked in the sun and was now pouring down at them. Raige bent at the waist slowly and then made his exit, trusting to see the group again, very soon.
Inutaisho had to hide his worry and fear because he could feel the enormous strength of the attack and knew that if Kagome's barrier wouldn't hold, they would die. But he trusted Kagome, which was why he stayed his ground and didn't run. Everyone else looked at each other, and then looked at Kagome, trusting in her, giving their lives to her.
The Shikon no Tama glowed a bright pink, engulfing Kagome's chest with a bright light, as her hands remained level from the blinding light. Her lips opened and closed, and then her chestnut orbs burned with her determination to protect her family as she brought her hands up in front of her and a bright blue barrier flew from the center of her palms, colliding with Raige's attack in midair. The barrier made it up in time, halting the ball of energy in the empty space above them, and it hit the barrier with the force of a freight train. Kagome felt the shock of the demonic energy sizzle through her body, making her nearly want to fall to her knees at the intensity of the demonic aura. Plus, the demonic energy ball was taking its toll on her barrier as the two sides clashed for dominance, the space in the auditorium erupting in a show of pink, blue and black lightning bolts sizzling through the emptiness, some hitting the stands with destruction. Evil versus Purity. The Shikon no Tama's energy flowed through Kagome and she could feel its power literally through her hands, coming out of her body as if it was hers. And then she felt the attack become too much to be contained and Raige's energy ball blasted, sending sparks of black and blue lightning to stream into the area around them. The group flinched back from the shock of the blast as they felt it even through Kagome's barrier, sending their bodies jerking a few inches back in the process. The ball of energy exploded, yellow and orange flames licking its way up towards the roof, shaking the ground itself from beneath and above the group.
As the quaking began to subside and the dust from the blast began to clear a bit, there was only more trembling as the roof above them began to give way from the amount of energy that had broken its stability. The monitors shook and then cracked from their heavy weight, falling towards the ground around the group, two reaching the edges of the stage and breaking the metal stage with a loud crash.
The group glanced around wearily, trying to find a way out. The blue barrier around them began to blink and then faded, Kagome's hands still outstretched in front of her. And without warning, she slumped, but Inuyasha was there to catch her before she fell to the ground.
"Kagome…" Inuyasha whispered, turning Kagome over in his arms so he could see her face. Her face was in pain, weary, and though her eyes were closed, he knew that her eyes would show the same that he saw on her face. Inuyasha gathered Kagome in his arms as the ceiling above began to fall in pieces. Metal poles and bars began to fall first, the first of the ceiling that would give way.
"We need to leave now," Sesshomaru said sternly, only exaggerating the urgency from that one, stern note in his voice, though his face showed no emotion. The others agreed and Inutaisho grabbed Miroku by his waste and all the demons leapt from the stage. They avoided the falling debris as the ceiling finally began to tumble around them, unable to wait for their departure. They finally got into the hallway, but even that was falling around them. They continued to run towards the entrance into Swan Lake, not thinking about looking back as they heard everything falling behind them. There was a load roar and a huge crash as they neared the entrance, signaling that the auditorium had been completely destroyed, and the group made their way out into the twilight.
Miroku breathed a sigh of relief as Inutaisho set him on his feet. "That was a close one."
"Kagome…"
Everyone turned towards Inuyasha as the boy had laid Kagome down on the ground as he tried to awaken her. They needed to see that she was okay. Inuyasha needed to.
"Come on, Kagome… Open your eyes, koi."
They heard a small grunt, and Kagome groaned, making Inuyasha start. He squeezed the hand that he held and brought her head closer to his chest as he held her in the cradle of his arm. Kagome's eyes opened slowly and she gazed up at the colorful sky that was starting to light with stars.
"Inuyasha…" she breathed, thankful and weary.
Inuyasha smiled and sighed heavily, thankfully. "Are you okay, Kagome?"
She nodded her head, though she felt tired and exhausted, but thankful that everyone was okay. Which only brought on a sense of dread, which the demons all caught on. "What happened?"
"The auditorium collapsed after that explosion," Inuyasha explained, seeing the worry in her eyes. She was worried that it was her fault and she would be the one to blame.
Sesshomaru saw this too, and spoke. "It is not your blame, Kagome. Raige is the one who will bear the weight of blame, and the media will know this." He said this because already he could hear sirens on the wind, signaling that the police and firefighters had been called to the scene.
Inutaisho looked ahead of them towards the streets where the many fans that had left were all standing. Some stood across the street, afraid to get too close, while most stood on the flat, open space right in front of what used to be Swan Lake. "It would be best if you take Kagome back to the shrine, Inuyasha," he advised, seeing all the questions and fears in the people's eyes. "Let your brother and I handle the authorities." He didn't want Kagome caught up in the media anymore than she already was. And this event that Raige had brought only would cost Kagome the blame on killing innocent lives, which is what she was probably blaming herself for.
Inuyasha nodded and released Kagome's hand, bringing it up under her knees and lifting her small form against him. "Koga… can you carry Miroku?" The wolf nodded, thankfully not escalating it into an argument as the two would have done together. Inuyasha nodded and then looked towards his father, seeing his father's worry and understanding. "Give me your word that she will be spared any fault."
Inutaisho nodded his head, though his son shouldn't have to even ask that of him. "You know I would do no less, Inuyasha." He watched as his youngest son nodded his head and then leapt onto the broken ruins of the Swan Lake, heading towards the Higurashi shrine with Koga on his heels.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
She couldn't believe what had just happened. Was it all just a dream? Kagome moaned, feeling fingers combing through her hair, so softly that it felt like a dream. Was this a dream? There was a soft laughter, a woman's breath.
"Kagome, my child… open your eyes."
Kagome did so, blinking as the light entered her eyes and she had to adjust to the light. She began to take in her surroundings, feeling the tranquility and freshness in the air and knew that she was in the Maboroshi Kokudo. She smiled, thankful for the release from the real world, remaining on her side for a bit longer with her eyes closed in peace. She felt her mother continue with her offering, combing her fingers through her hair, and Kagome sighed happily. She felt her mother's knees beneath her head and the soft grass comforting her body. This was the true refugee she needed.
"You have seen much since you have gone back to the world of the living," Midoriko stated.
Kagome's smile faltered and she nodded her head against her mother's lap. "Indeed, I have." She sighed and lifted herself from her mother's care, sitting across from Midoriko with her legs beneath her, the same way her mother sat. Though her mother was dressed in her miko robes, she looked like a very beautiful woman just sitting there, waiting for someone to talk to. Which only made Kagome's heart ache for this one woman.
Midoriko's face lit with a small smile, as she knew Kagome's thoughts, just as much as Kagome knew her own, if they wanted to. "Let's talk about Raige."
At the mention of the demon's name, Kagome frowned and her eyes averted to the grass. She couldn't face what had just happened. But her mother already knew, and it would hurt to talk about it. "He attacked people at the Swan Lake."
Midoriko nodded her head. "Yes. There were many deaths." She saw Kagome close her eyes at the realization, and she thought to take it easy on the girl. "Kagome, it is not your fault, you know that. But you insist on blaming it on yourself because you were the only one who could stop him."
Kagome gazed at her mother, knowing that to be true. "He came there for me, mother," she pointed out, knowing that her mother knew that too. "Raige came there for me, to get my attention."
"Which he did," Midoriko pointed out. Kagome exhaled roughly, angry at Raige for killing so many innocent lives. "But it still is not your fault. Kagome…" she said with an exasperated smile, her voice still remaining the same, "you think that anything that happens in the world of the living is your fault," she said with a disbelief look in her eyes. "But it is not. And that is the challenge that you have to overcome. You have to realize that you are not a God, you are just a human who the Fates entrust with great power, but not godly powers."
Kagome sighed heavily, knowing that her mother spoke truth in her words, but still unable to believe it when so many lives could have been saved if she had been fast enough to stop Raige. She had almost intercepted his attack, but had been a few seconds late, and those few seconds had cost her many lives. "It is not fair."
"No it is not," Midoriko stated, placing her hands together on her lap, watching Kagome's expression go from sadness to anger, then from irritation to despair. Midoriko could only watch and frown at Kagome's contemplations.
Kagome began to sort through what had happened today, thinking about Raige's attack and his intentions. It suddenly became clear to her why he had come. "He wanted to get my attention," she said, more to herself than to her mother. When she gazed up at her mother with understanding, Midoriko nodded her agreement. "Papa knew. Papa said that Raige would try to catch my attention, to let me know that he was waiting from me at Shikoku Island." Kagome's eyes widened with understanding and she beat herself inwardly for not heeding to Inutaisho's warnings. If she had listened to him, had thought it through, she could have been able to evacuate the building before Raige had even showed up. She could have done something.
Midoriko shook her head sadly. "You cannot save every life, Kagome," she reminded. "You can only do so much. Inutaisho did not know it either. He had suggested that Raige would do something, but not even he knew that it would have been an attack at the concert." Midoriko watched as Kagome shook her head, placing her head in her hands to try and control her emotions. She sighed. 'Kagome… you always take too much onto your shoulders.'
'I am the only one who can bear the burdens.'
Midoriko shook her head, her eyes going to the grass with deep sadness. 'You are not, my child. You are the only one who can give the people a future. You are not the only one to bear the burdens of life and death.'
At this, Kagome was confused, and her face came out of her hands, gazing up at her mother's downcast eyes gazing at the grass. "What do you mean by that, mother?"
"You are wise beyond your years, Kagome. You have seen too much for such a young woman. You have been through too much since you were but a child. And yet you still believe that you should bear everyone's burdens as if it were your own." Midoriko gazed up at Kagome's sad eyes, seeing the denial at her words deep within Kagome's orbs. Her daughter was a strong minded woman, and if she felt like she was responsible for something, Kagome would stick to it whole heartedly. Midoriko frowned sadly at her strong willed daughter. "You cannot change everything, Kagome. You can only try to make things better."
"But why am I placed on this earth if I cannot change life and death? What is the purpose of fighting for the living if I cannot prevent their death?" she asked, still confused to her mother's last comment but wanting to understand. She needed to understand, she needed to see the light the way her mother did.
Midoriko moved slowly, rising to her feet, dusting off the back of her robes as she motioned for Kagome to rise with her. "Let us walk," she offered, needing the ground beneath her feet and the movement of her limbs to soothe her nerves. Kagome rose and nodded her head, following her mother's lead as they walked towards the trees that were all around them. Once the sunlight began to filter through the leaves, giving them the comfort of the shade and from the heavens, Kagome felt more at ease. Something about the walking did her mind good.
Sensing this, Midoriko carried on their conversation. "Kagome, you are placed on this earth with one purpose. To live." Kagome looked towards the side of her mother's face, but Midoriko continued to look ahead. "By you living, you can change the world, Kagome. Don't you see that?"
Kagome's face dropped to the ground as she watched the grass petals pass through her toes. 'By living… I can change the world?'
"Without you living, Raige would dominate the world and kill everyone within. I said that you are not the only one to bear the burdens of life and death because you are not the Kamis themselves. You are but a mere human, born with the power to try and give a future to the lives that were placed on earth, not to dictate to their survival."
"Yes, but without me, they would be dead." Kagome shook her head, not understanding where her mother was going with this at all. "If I was not alive, like you said, then everyone would be dead. I prevent their death."
"How?" Midoriko asked, wanting Kagome to get the answer for herself.
There was a silence between them as Kagome thought about her mother's question. "By getting rid of the evil."
"And what are you doing in the end?" Midoriko asked.
Thinking it through, Kagome didn't have an answer for that. 'Life?' She was giving the people their lives. She was giving them a chance to live by getting rid of the evil that threatened to steal their lives from them. "I'm giving them their lives."
Midoriko shook her head slowly, her hair flowing behind her at the movement. "No, Kagome. You are not giving them their lives. How can you be when they already have their lives in their hands?"
Kagome stopped her walking, her face towards the ground in confusion at her mother's words. Midoriko stopped as well, turning around as her hands were clasped together in front of her, resting against her stomach. She tilted her head at her daughter's mass of raven-blue hair, the sun's rays touching some parts of her body and head. She sighed lovingly at her daughter, wishing that Fates would spare Kagome a chance to remain living this time, Kagome deserved it.
"The people were given their lives from birth and it is their choice to take it and run with it the way they desire. You are not the one who is handing them their lives when they already have it." Kagome gazed up at her, those chestnuts swarming with confusion, a lost child hoping to be saved. Midoriko nearly closed the distance between the two and wrap her arms around Kagome, protecting her from the evil that she would have to face, from the world. "Kagome, you are a gifted child, and with that gift, you are giving the people a chance for a better future. They already have their lives, you are just giving them something more."
Midoriko smiled, seeing Kagome's eyes clear up a bit, and she turned around to continue walking. As Kagome fell in step besides her, she continued her explanation. "If Raige chooses to do so, he could enslave everyone on earth and make them do his bidding. But what if that is not so? What if he plans to destroy every life? Then that is not your burden to carry. Life and death is not your responsibility, Kagome. It is the ridding of the thing that determines life and death that you must bear." At this, Kagome fully understood what her mother was trying to tell her, and she was grateful for her mother's kind words. A smile lit her face as she continued walking alongside her mother, wishing that they could talk forever here in this peaceful place.
"You are not a God, but a bringer of hope. You will give the people a chance to live their lives the way they choose to, and if they choose to die, then so be it. It is not your burden to bear, but their own. You are just giving the people a chance for a future, whether it is bright or not, and by doing so, you must destroy the thing that threatens that future."
Kagome nodded her head, and Midoriko could feel Kagome's aura accepting her words. She smiled, and the clearing up ahead came into view. As the two walked into the small clearing filled with white Jasmines, Kagome smiled to herself, remembering the small clearing that Inuyasha had in his backyard with that small patch of Jasmine flowers. His name came into her mind like a talisman, sparing her from the grief and hardships of her future.
"Kagome…" Midoriko said, turning around to face her once they got into the small clearing. Kagome watched her mother's beautiful figure with love and admiration. She wished she had her mother's fearless drive and steely determination. And then she saw her mother's smile, a mother's knowing smile. "You are just like me in every way, Kagome. And sometimes, I wonder if that is a bad thing…" she teased, making Kagome smile in the process. "However, you must leave now. The others need you as things are brewing out of control."
Kagome nodded her head as reality began to flood back into her mind. "The Swan Lake."
Midoriko nodded her head. "Do not let them get the best of you. You are a strong woman, and I love you in everyway you are."
Kagome smiled lovingly, wishing that her mother would be given the chance that she had for another life. Midoriko read her mind and a sad smile lit her face as Kagome felt her body tingle and she knew that she was going back to her body, leaving her mother alone in the Maboroshi Kokudo.
"I was never meant to be born." Midoriko watched as Kagome's figure finally disappeared and the smile she held for her daughter faded away just as easily.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Her head hurt like hell, making her groan in pain as she came aware of herself. There was a shuffle and then her name was called in a panic. Male. Concern. Fear. Kagome smiled despite the pain.
"Inuyasha…" she whispered. At once his aura filled her own and her headache was lessening as she felt his big hand grab hers, squeezing for reassurance.
"I'm right here, koi," Inuyasha said, his voice an anchor for her. Kagome slowly opened her eyes, letting the darkness consume her as she tried to adjust to the darkened world. Immediately, Inuyasha's silver hair caught her eyes and she turned her head to see him next to her, his face so close that she wanted to kiss him. She smiled in greeting at him, seeing his golden eyes swirl with relief.
"I have a headache," she said, bringing her free hand up to rub at her temples.
"I'll go get you some water," he said, releasing her hand, already starting to miss his warmth, and then left the side of her bed to get that glass of water. Kagome smiled at Inuyasha's attentiveness to her needs, and could only imagine how much he cared for her. She sighed, looking around. She was in her room at home. The place was dark as it was nighttime outside, and the crescent moon was shinning outside in its weak glow. Kagome pushed herself up, ignoring the pounding in her head. 'Great…' she thought, wishing that she was back with her mother where she didn't have a headache.
As she turned to drape her legs off the bed, she noticed that she was wearing a black shorts and white t-shirt, comfortable sleeping clothes. Kagome smiled in the dark. 'Inuyasha…' As if on cue, he came strolling into her room, leaving the door slightly ajar.
"Here, Kagome," he said, giving her the cup and she taking it with thanks. Kagome took a sip and let the cold liquid cool her warm body, wanting it to get rid of her headache. Her free hand flew up to her neck, unconsciously feeling for the Shikon no Tama. Her hands met the coolness of the jewel and she inwardly smiled, relief flooding her.
"How are you feeling?" Inuyasha asked, seeing that Kagome seemed satisfied that the jewel was still on her. He wondered if she even thought that they had taken it from her, but decided not to ask.
"Better, thanks, Inu." Their eyes clashed in the dark and she smiled at him, making Inuyasha smile back. He turned towards the door when he heard footsteps coming closer, and the door opened to reveal Kira.
Kagome turned after seeing that Inuyasha was gazing at the door, and saw her mother standing in the doorway.
"Kagome… how are you feeling, sweetheart?" Kira asked, one hand on her chest.
Kagome nodded her head. "Better, mama. How is everyone?"
Kira smiled, but then frowned, gesturing for Kagome to come downstairs. "Maybe you should come down into the living room." At her mother's tone, Kagome knew it wasn't good. And as she turned to look at Inuyasha for reassurance, she saw his face drop into a frown and he didn't turn to look at her.
Kagome nodded her head and stood up, Inuyasha standing with her and following her out of her room to head downstairs. As the three came down, Kagome noticed that everyone was in her home. They all must have come here after the crowd had departed, and never left. She saw her son in the midst of the crowd as he jumped off Izayoi's lap and ran towards her.
"Okaa!" Kazuki said with happiness at seeing his mother well again, running right into her legs. Kagome nearly fell over and she laughed at her son's happiness.
"Kazuki, sweetheart." She reached down as Inuyasha took her cup of water so she could pick up their son. She brought him against her waist and he buried his nose against her neck, rubbing against the soft skin, giving her goosebumps. She giggled as his breath tickled her skin and walked over to the others as they greeted her with smiles.
She saw that they were all facing the television, which was the only bright light in the softly lit living room from the lamp behind the couch. Kagome turned towards the television as she stood next to the arm of the couch and watched what was bothering everyone.
"Reporting live from Swan Lake, I am Hitomi Mitsukaki." The woman reporter dressed in a tan tuxedo gazed into the camera, behind her, the Swan Lake building was in ruins with fire ablaze in the background. "About ten minutes ago, Japan's famous Swan Lake had gone down in ruins from a recent attack made by an Inu-demon. Reports say that this demon was an Inu-Taiyoukai, bearing the marks of his pure blood on his face." The woman began to turn around to gaze at the firefighters that ran past her, into the camera's view, as they brought more help and more hoses to help get the fire out. "What we are now clear about is that this demon had attacked the audience during Mayonaka's concert." The woman turned back to face the screen as she gazed down at a piece of paper in her hands. "From what we have learned from Tokyo Hospital, there have been 81 deaths and 106 injured, with 24 of them being in critical condition."
Kagome felt her legs give way and she fell to the ground with Kazuki clinging to her, though she had no strength to hold him. Inuyasha was immediately at her side, crouching down beside her to try and get her to respond to him while the others quickly tried to help, calling out Kagome's name in worry. But she could only think about the lives that had been lost and the image of the explosion from Raige's attack replayed in her mind, the people's horrified screams drowning out her family's pleas.
"It seems like the fire is finally starting to go out," Hitomi said, turning back around to view the demolished structure. "Indeed, Japan is going to miss the Swan Lake." Once Hitomi turned back around, there was a light in her eyes as she was ready to tell the whole of Japan interesting news. "Earlier on, one of our reporters had a few words with Inutaisho Takahashi, one of the known, leading Inu-Taiyoukais in all of Japan. Let us take a look at that footage."
Kagome's head came up slowly as she heard this, looking past the eyes of her family, as she gazed at the illuminated screen.
"Mr. Takahashi, is it true that this demon had come for one soul purpose which was, or rather for who, the Shikon no Miko, Kagome Higurashi?" the reporter asked, though he was out of the shot. Only Inutaisho's figure, and the background of a smoky Swan Lake as it had just tumbled to the ground and started on fire was behind him.
Inutaisho showed no emotion as he didn't want any more speculation upon himself or his family. "I do not know, but it would seem so. This demon is not a modernized demon and therefore has no connection to Mayonaka, not that I know of."
"Then why did he attack tonight?"
"I do not know the full answer to that."
The reporter didn't seem satisfied as he kept pressing the issue. "Is it true that the High Priestess was going to make a speech tonight?"
Inutaisho nodded his head.
"Then what's not to say that the demon did come for her?" Inutaisho just shrugged, not wanting to waste his breath since he had told the reporter twice his answer.
The reporter cleared his throat to the microphone and then his voice floated from the television. "Some of our sources say that the High Priestess is now carrying the ancient Shikon no Tama, one that many thought was pure myth." At this, Kagome gasped as all eyes flew to the screen with hers, shocked that someone had caught her with the jewel in her possession. Kagome began to think of when someone, especially a reporter, would have caught her walking around the city with the jewel. But the thing was, she hasn't been walking around the city, in fear that the jewel would be easily recognized by the demons in the area. She hadn't really been in public since the jewel had been brought into this world, and she had quit from her job ever since she had found out about Kazuki and Raige's attack on the Ise Shrine. 'How could anyone possibly…'
"Now, is this true, Mr. Takahashi? Is the Shikon no Tama really here and it is not just a myth or a legend like many have believed?"
The microphone was thrust at Inutaisho's mouth, eagerly waiting for the demon to speak, but the demon just stared at the reporter blankly. "That is for the High Priestess herself to tell you. It is none of my concern."
Kagome nearly smiled at Inutaisho's frank words, thankful that he had stood up for her and not told the media anything, but she shouldn't have doubted him. However, Kagome began to dawn on something. Ise. She remembered walking along the streets of Ise with the jewel when she had taken it out of the shrine grounds and went to make a phone call to Inuyasha. That had been the first time she took it out from the shrine, out into the real world where eyes would have fallen upon it. 'That's probably where some civilian had seen it and then told the media to get publicity.'
"Mr. Takahashi, please, if you know anything about the jewel, why won't you tell all of Japan? The Shikon no Tama has a very dark legend and it is a very powerful jewel. Nonetheless, everyone should know if this thing is on earth."
Inutaisho's eyes were hard now, as if he was itching to tear the man's throat out for his persistence. "That is something you will have to ask the High Priestess." His voice held his authority, though he didn't raise it, and the reporter had thankfully backed down to his own benefit.
"Just one last question, Mr. Takahashi. Will the High Priestess be making a statement upon this, since the demon had come for her?"
Though the reporter didn't say it, Kagome knew what he was implying: it was her fault. And Inutaisho obviously knew it as well as his eyes closed for a brief second, probably to hide his anger.
"I do not know. Now if there are no more questions, I must be going." Inutaisho then walked off the camera and the scene was cut as the report went back to Hitomi standing in front of the chaotic scene behind her.
"And there you go, Japan. Although we do not know this demon's name, one thing is for certain. The demon is after the High Priestess, and to prove his point has killed many people tonight, which Japan will mourn. As for the damage to Swan Lake, sources tell us that the Takahashi family will be paying for everything, but Swan Lake hasn't given any word on the damage amount. Now, we just have to wait for the High Priestess to make her appearance. I'm Hitomi Mitsukaki reporting live from Swan Lake." The news then ended and a commercial came on about a soda company.
Kagome sighed heavily, looking down to see that Kazuki was still clinging to her, his huge golden eyes gazing up at her with worry. She smiled reassuringly down at him, finally finding the strength to hold him against her body. She gazed at Inuyasha, seeing his concern, and moved to stand, allowing him to help her up. Everyone began to back away, giving her some space after they had worriedly rushed to her, and she stood next to the edge of the couch where Rin was now seated. Kagome looked over at Inutaisho who sat at the other end, next to Izayoi, and she smiled gratefully at him.
"Thank you, Papa, for saying all of that," she said, knowing that he had tried to protect her as much as he could from the media's assumptions.
Inutaisho smiled and nodded her head. "Sesshomaru and I just wanted to make sure that the media didn't start any rumors. Besides, it wasn't your fault Kagome, no matter what they say about it."
The others nodded their agreements and Kagome had to smile with thanks for their kind words, but deep inside, she still had doubts about it. She felt Inuyasha at her side, obviously picking up on her mood, as she turned to smile at him in reassurance, but it didn't work on him.
"So what do we do now, Kagome?" Miroku asked, seated near his grandfather's feet as Kichiro sat in the chair next to the window. The fireplace lighted up the two figures, sending glows of embers against the side of their faces.
Kagome sighed and brought Kazuki higher and more comfortably against her. "Papa had already called those who are willing to help." At this, Inutaisho nodded his head. "We will leave at dawn and hopefully make it there by twilight. I don't want the night to be our first hours on the island because I haven't been there before, so I don't know what to expect." Everyone nodded their heads, agreeing that it would be a disadvantage to go into the territory and not know one's own way around. It was like going into the heart of a demon's trap, being on their territory.
"I believe that he will have many on his side," she informed them, letting everyone know about what her Brother had told her earlier on this evening. "My Brother, Kiyoshi, had called from the shrine to inform me that ever since yesterday morning they have felt groups of demonic energy moving past the town. They didn't know what it was coming from but it would come and go throughout the day, all heading towards the south. But last night it grew in numbers as they felt more demonic auras within the area. They believe that the demonic auras are growing richer on Shikoku Island, so that is where we will go to meet Raige and his army."
"So… he has demon lords?" Sango asked, wondering what they were facing this time.
Kagome nodded her head as she gazed at her best friend sitting next to Miroku. Hideaki and Amaya were seated on the chair next to Kichiro with Amaya sitting on the arm of the chair. "I believe so. I think these demons were told that if they join with Raige, they may come out of it with the jewel as their own."
Koga snickered. "Yeah right. Raige won't give up the jewel."
Everyone couldn't help but nod their agreements. "Yes, he won't," Kagome said. "But he would want to make them believe it so he could have those who serve them, serve him in the process. Whatever the case, it's a win-win situation for him. He gains help and he gains the jewel, whether the demon lords know it or not. I'm quite sure some are in it just for the experience, most for the power that they can gain from obtaining the jewel."
"Whatever the case," Hideaki said, his voice neutral. "These demons will not be like Kano's in anyway."
Sesshomaru nodded his head, standing in the corner between the window and the fireplace, leaning one elbow on the shelf above the fireplace. "They are demon lords with much years and experience."
"It won't be as easy as last time," Inutaisho said with a heavy sigh. "But I believe that my friends will be able to help a bit with the odd numbers." Though he didn't have as much friends to help in this as Raige would, he knew that with their forces and with the demons on their side with much experience to back up their years, they would have a good chance, no matter the numbers. "Then it is settled. We leave Tokyo tomorrow morning."
Everyone nodded their heads, remembering the last time when they had last talked like this. Talking about walking into a war was so simple, yet it implied so much more than just coming together and supporting each other. Kagome knew that everyone was here because they loved her and wanted to help her, but she didn't know if she should accept their offer. Amaya had said that the last battle with Kano would be her last, however here she is again, lending her assistance to aid Kagome. Kichiro is too old to be heading into another war, the last one nearly costing him his life, and she was afraid that the old man wouldn't be able to handle this one. She feared for his life more than she feared for anyone else's in this room.
"Kichiro…" she called out, watching as the elder looked towards her with wise eyes, eyes that were too old and that has seen too much. "I want you to sit this one out."
Kichiro was about to protest when Kagome interrupted him. "This island is unknown to me, and I know there will be many terrains we will have to face. I will not have you go there. Please… just give me this one favor I ask."
At this, everyone stilled and waited for Kichiro's answer. Miroku looked up from his place next to his grandfather's feet, his eyes pleading with his grandfather to agree to Kagome's wishes. He knew his grandfather was a fighter and not one to stay behind while others went towards their death. However, he too had felt strongly about not letting his grandfather go this time. He was just waiting for them to go home before he would tell his grandfather his thoughts. Thankfully, Kagome had voiced hers, and he waited for his grandfather to say something.
"Tell me this, Kagome…" Kichiro said, his eyes too wise and too cunning. If he was going to play around with words she would have to watch herself before she fell into a trap which would allow him to come. Kichiro smiled tenderly at Kagome, seeing the concern and worry deep in her eyes from across the room. "If I agree to your wishes, will you agree to mine?"
Kagome nodded her head automatically, knowing that his safety would be something she would trade anything for. "Yes."
"Then promise me that you will come back for this old man."
Kagome's breath hitched in her throat and she couldn't find any words to tell him. She didn't know if she would be able to come back. She wasn't sure that she would be able to make this promise to him. And she wasn't one to go back on her promises. But the look in Kichiro's eyes was a deep and stern look of trust and love, all for her. He trusted her to come back to him and he loved her enough to want to see her again, after all this is over.
"I want to be able to see what a young, beautiful woman you will become before I leave this world. I will have no other from you, Kagome. Just give me this one dying wish, if you would say," he said with a small smirk.
Kagome sighed heavily, her face showing her sadness. She wouldn't be able to say no to his request, but she couldn't guarantee it either. "I will try. That is all I can give you, Kichiro."
"Then it will have to do," Kichiro said, a happy smile on his face for getting what he wanted. He would stay behind but he would hope that Kagome would come back home for him to see her grow old with his grandson and their friends. It would be a happiness that would grow in her that he would love to bask in before his deathbed.
Kikyo, sitting next to Rin, moved so that she was facing Kagome's direction a bit, her eyes seeking out her sister. "I'm coming," she said, leaving no room for a refusal.
But Kagome was going to give her one, that Kikyo could tell. "Absolutely not."
Kikyo shook her head, her eyes firm as she fought with her sister on this. "Kagome, you know how much I love you, but you can't rule my life. I want to go and help you guys again. I do have revenge that I have to fulfill," she reminded, though it hurt for the memory to come back. Kagome sighed heavily, wishing that Kikyo didn't have to remind her. She didn't want her sister to be brought into this, not so soon after she had just lost her child, but her sister insisted. And truthfully, Kagome would have wanted to do the same. Not wanting to say it, she did anyways.
"Okay…" Kikyo didn't smile, didn't bloat it that she had won. She nearly nodded her head as if she knew she was going and relaxed back in the couch between her mother and Rin.
"I'm going too then." Kagome closed her eyes and sighed again. 'Souta…' Her brother was going to put up another fight again. He had wanted to go when he was younger and now he wants to go again.
"Absolutely not." But Kagome said nothing. It was Kira who had voiced her opinion, much to everyone's shock. Souta, who was standing next to the stairs, leaning against the wall, stared at his mother with shock and disbelief.
"But… mama…"
"No." Kira shook her head, her eyes closed in disbelief. "I will not lose all of my children." She was afraid, too afraid to think about it. But the thought of losing all of her children in this ridiculous war was too much for her to bear. She had no guarantee that Kikyo and Kagome would come back to her, and she would have no guarantee if she asked. So she would keep one with her, as selfish as she was, in hopes that if they both didn't return, she would have one to help keep her living in this world of pain.
"Mama is right, Souta," Kagome said, gazing at her brother's hurtful eyes, disbelieving that his own family would want him to stay home. Souta just couldn't believe that this was happening, again. He needed to go with his sisters to help, he was old enough, he could take care of himself. Though he never had any training with a sword, he could learn. He wanted to help. But again he was denied and again he would have to stay behind with his mother, worrying if his sisters would return to them, worrying if his sisters were alive. That was the worse of staying behind.
"I can't believe this," Souta said angrily, turning around in a blur to head up the stairs.
"Souta…" Kagome called, but Inuyasha placed a hand against her stomach, stopping her from going after him. She gazed at him worriedly, but he just shook his head. Kagome sighed and turned to gaze at her son, the frown still on her face.
"Then let us go back to our homes. We will meet here at dawn," Inutaisho said as he rose, bringing Izayoi with him. Everyone nodded their heads and began to rise from their seats. Rin went to Sesshomaru's side as he tucked her against him and Kikyo went upstairs to try and talk to Souta. Everyone moved towards the door, and as Kagome said goodnight to everyone, deep inside she was saying her goodbyes. She didn't know if she would see them again, like this, so carefree and normal. 'Normal…' That word that she strained to be for so long was already out of her grasp. Her friends and family like this, coming together like old times, holding those smiles of happiness on their faces, she would cherish those moments in her heart.
As everyone filed out, Inuyasha and Kagome walked out into the darkness of the night, just outside the front door. Kira had retreated into the kitchen to cook something for her family, needing the retreat from the real world. So the two were left alone outside.
Kagome tilted her head to the side to gaze at Inuyasha with love in her eyes, Kazuki still on her hip. "I love you, Inuyasha."
Inuyasha smiled and moved to kiss her, showing her how much he loved her through his kiss. When they moved apart, Kazuki giggled. "What are you laughing at, pup?" he played around, pinching the side of Kazuki's stomach, making the child laugh at his ticklish spot.
Kagome smiled at her son and then looked back at Inuyasha. "You should go home with your family."
Inuyasha nodded his head. "I'm going so that I can get my Tetsaiga and clothes. But I will be back tomorrow morning."
"I know," she said with a smile, knowing that he would probably be the first one here. Inuyasha could only gaze at her for a bit longer, not wanting to leave her. Kagome bounced Kazuki up and then turned to look at him.
"Do you want to go with Otou or stay with Okaa?" she asked him, seeing her son think it over.
"Stay with Okaa," Kazuki said, burying his head against her neck, embarrassed.
Kagome giggled and then looked at Inuyasha, shrugging her shoulders. He only smiled at her and kissed her one last time, lingering against her lips a bit longer. When they pulled apart, Inuyasha told her and his son goodnight and then left for the shrine stairs. Kagome and Kazuki watched as Inuyasha walked away and then down the shrine stairs. Then the both of them went inside the house as the smell of ramen filtered through the kitchen window, making their mouth water, forgetting about the worries in the world if just for the night.
Well, I hope this one was worth the wait. I don't know if I'm going to update my other story first or this one, I'm still contemplating. But like I usually do, you'll hear from me when I update. Now that I'm back in school I will be writing more often because I get bored here in my dorm. So you don't have to wait a month this time... hopefully... :)
-Kaleialohalani
