Author's Note: I know, I know. It's been over a year since I have last updated and I can finally say that it's good to be back in the writing mood. This next chapter is up and I'm again excited to hear what you have to say and even if you remember what has been happening with the gang since we last left them. I hope that the long wait hasn't ruined your memory of the story, or turned you away from reading it altogether. But again, sorry for the long wait. I've just had too much to do with school and then I lost all inspiration. Anyways, go on and read.
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha...
Chapter 17: Purity in the End
The clouds were veiling the area around them, and that of themselves. Inuyasha stayed close to Kagome should something suddenly pop out. His Tetsaiga was quiet in his hands as he waited for Raige to attack. Now that they have found the demon, he was going to give Raige Hell.
"You know," Raige said, as he continued to walk towards the group slowly. His dark blue hakama and white haori made him stand out from the demons behind him. He had some sort of bone-made armor covering his torso and two points heading down onto his thighs. Some spikes stuck out of the armor as he had katanas on both sides of his body. The demons remained still behind him as they just waited. "I felt terrible for those villagers that you had helped."
Kagome's eyes widened as she listened to his words, wondering how he knew but then wondering what happened to them. 'He was following me this whole time?'
"So I delivered them from the pain and sorrow of this world that you left them in," he said, shaking his head at Kagome's actions. Raige smirked. "And your sister… I wonder if she made it back to Honshu by now."
Quickly, Kagome drew an arrow and pointed it at Raige, her hand steady as fury rushed through her. "You followed me," she accused, wondering how he had done so without her knowing. She felt no traces of him as they traveled here, no hint of his demonic aura anywhere. He had been able to hide his aura from her. She heard Inuyasha's growl next to her, only further worrying her about her sister's whereabouts.
Raige shrugged, unfazed by her sacred arrow. "It was a matter of making sure that you remained alive for me." He smiled as he watched Kagome's unfazed face. He touched her aura and he felt her repel from his touch immediately. He could only chuckle. "Oh, Kagome… how you amuse me."
Suddenly, the clouds around them became less dense and they could see easier. Though there was still mist around them, mostly on the ground, they could see the figures of the demons behind Raige, waiting for their chance to strike. Kagome kept her arrow pointed at Raige as he walked towards her.
Inuyasha moved in front of Kagome, in the path of her arrow, blocking Raige's view of her as he glared and growled at Raige. "You better not have touched Kikyo, you filthy demon!" he said, gripping Tetsaiga tightly in front of him. Just the thought of Raige getting his hands on Kikyo sent his demon on fire. Kagome was shocked as to what Inuyasha was doing, stepping in front of her arrow like that, but she didn't put down her guard. Raige would attack them, she knew it.
Raige chuckled, still striding slowly towards them as if he had all the time in the world. "Foolish half demon," he said softly. He tilted his head slightly to the side, bringing up his hand as he released a crescent blue attack racing towards Inuyasha in seconds.
Inutaisho was there before it could hit his son, blocking the demonic attack with his Sounga. He stood tall, regarding the Inu-Taiyokai. "Raige, you cannot win this war. You will fall tonight."
Raige quirked his eyebrow, seriously shocked. "Oh… is that so, Inutaisho?" He held contempt in his voice, his eyes locking on Inutaisho. "We shall see who will spill blood this night." He raised his hand into the air and a huge roar erupted from behind Raige as the demons got the signal to attack. The ground began to shake as they all ran towards the small group, hunger filled in their eyes and a sadistic smile on their hideous faces.
"Now…" Raige said, as he began to float into the sky right as the demons rushed from under him. "It's time for you and I to take our leave, Kagome."
A blue, circular barrier formed around Kagome as she lowered her bow. She gasped, making Inuyasha turn around to see what had happened.
"Kagome!" he said, reaching out towards her, but the ball had moved out of his reach as it floated into the air. "Kagome!" he yelled, jumping up towards her.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome said, watching as he came after her, his eyes frantic to get to her. But he didn't make it. Raige smirked as he and Kagome disappeared into thin air and Inuyasha was left alone in the sky.
Inuyasha growled angrily, gazing around frantically to find Kagome, but she was gone. He couldn't find her scent anywhere. And Raige had vanished too. He yelled in his rage and heard clatter below as the others began to do battle with the demons.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Kagome glanced around as to where she was. She was kneeling on a platform, her bow in one hand against the ground and her arrow in the other. It was a floating platform, just like the many other floating platforms she saw around her. The air was heavy and filled her with dread. 'Where is this place?' She had a bad feeling about it. It felt hard to breath, heavy to move, and the Shikon no Tama was warning her of something. There was endless space around her that was complete blackness, stretching for miles past these floating platforms.
"Do you like this place?"
She whipped her head around as she noticed Raige behind her. She quickly got to her feet, holding her arrow against her bow at her waist, waiting for an attack. "Where are we?"
Raige smiled, tilting his head to the side to take in Kagome's beauty. "We are in the Underworld."
Kagome gasped, glancing around at the place. So that was the feeling she was having. Death. Demons. She could feel the hairs on the back of her neck stand up, but there was nothing around her. Which was exactly the point. There was nothing, yet there was something, everywhere around her. The sound of demonic moans and roars could be heard from beneath her. Curiously, Kagome walked closer to the edge, keeping Raige in front of her. She gasped as to what she saw below. Many demons in a mass of bodies, all on or around each other, as if stuck here in pain.
"Kami-sama…" she whispered. This was bad. To be stuck in the Underworld… with the Shikon no Tama no less.
Raige smirked. "Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Kagome?" He began to slowly walk forward, making Kagome regard him more steadily, though she didn't bring up her bow. "Now you know what you can't do here."
Kagome pressed her lips together. 'No…' Raige got right in front of her. She glared up at him as he just smiled at her emotions. He reached out to touch her face but she moved out of his reach, notching her bow as she pointed it at him, allowing her miko energy to flow around the arrow in warning.
"You planned this so I wouldn't be able to use the jewel," she accused.
Raige sighed, wanting to touch her but seeing that she wasn't going to let him. He placed his hands on his hips, lifting his shoulders a bit to adjust his armor. "You still can. It's just… I wouldn't want you to become a meal for those demons."
Kagome could only glare at him. If she were to use the Shikon no Tama, its power would draw them to it, and she would be the bait. Those demons would easily outnumber her, and she didn't know how many there were since she was in the Underworld. There was no telling where these demons were and how many. 'Dammit!' She couldn't use the Shikon no Tama, so she would have to use her own powers and the Kusanagi. Hopefully that would be enough. If not… she would use her last resort, like she had planned.
Raige watched Kagome's silent conversation and smiled. He could tell she was feeling trapped, being in some kind of dangerous dilemma she couldn't get out of. "Come now, Kagome. After I make you submit to me, I will have you as my mate."
Kagome smirked, a cocky grin. "Then come at me, Raige." If she was what he wanted then he would have her, whether in life or in death.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
The clouds around them began to thicken as more clouds began to roll around the mountains. The air around them became thicker, making it more difficult to see the combatants in action.
Inuyasha and the others, however, were doing well. Though there were many demons, the demons were rusty in their skills. So they had the upper advantage, mostly.
"Damn!" Miroku said as he stumbled back, keeping his eyes on the demons in front of him.
"Miroku!" Sango yelled, seeing him holding his shoulder. She whacked at the demons around her and then made her way to his side. She inspected his shoulder and hissed. "This is deep." She cursed and adjusted the fanny pack she had around her waist from the village that had given them medical supplies. She and Ayame had a fanny pack holding all the medical supplies they would need.
"I'm fine, Sango," he reassured her, watching the demons warily, ready to defend him and Sango should the time arise.
Sango glared at Miroku. "Don't be ridiculous." She zipped open the fanny pack and reached into it to get a bottle of alcohol. "It's going to sting," she warned, opening the bottle and ripping open the sealing paper. She moved his torn robes aside from the wound and rinsed it with the alcohol. Miroku flinched and hissed, groaning in pain. He kept his pained eyes watching around them as the demons seemed to be thinking about how to attack the two now that they were working together.
Suddenly, they moved to attack Sango and Miroku, too bored to wait for the two of them to put up their guard and do battle. Four demons moved in for the kill and Miroku pushed Sango behind him, reaching his good arm into his robes to use his ofudas.
Inuyasha's roar tore through them as they saw the inu-hanyou coming from above, his Tetsaiga cutting the demons down easily as they were too busy trying to get to their targets. Inuyasha faced the demons, keeping his back to the two, but he looked over his shoulder with a glare.
"Whenever you guys are ready…" he said with irritation.
Miroku smiled, despite the numbing pain, and felt Sango finishing up his wound. She placed a bandage on it and they stood up together. "Thank you, Inuyasha."
Inuyasha just blew out air. "Wouldn't want to lose my drummer." He turned his head towards them and smirked. Miroku chuckled and shook his head. The demons around them began to gather and circle them in, intending to easily get rid of the three.
"I can get rid of the front lines," Sango said, itching to use her Hiraikotsu.
"Do it," Inuyasha said. He sensed something coming, something else that was different from the demons around them. He glanced to the side to see Sango gripping her Hiraikotsu, ready for the kill. Then, the huge boomerang went whizzing through the air, cutting the demons in the front lines right in half.
Some demons that were able to jump over the weapon charged at them. Miroku and Inuyasha both began to kill the demons coming after them as Sango waited for her Hiraikotsu to return to her. Miroku threw out his ofudas, stabbing his staff into a demon and using his spiritual energy to shoot through the chest of another demon. Inuyasha cut down the demons in front of him, smirking to himself as he fought with them, seeing as they thought they could actually win against him.
Inutaisho and Sesshomaru were busy with their own battle near the edge of the cliff. Sesshomaru moved back just a bit, looking over the edge to see the long drop along the mountainside.
"We are cornered," he simply said, glancing to the side to Inutaisho.
His father turned to him and smiled. "We'll be fine." Sesshomaru said nothing, already knowing this to be true without needing to hear his father's reassurance.
Inutaisho faced the demons, walking a bit in front of Sesshomaru as he wanted the first attack. He noticed one large demon making his way through the group, being taller than the others. He was really bulky, muscular from the neck down, and he wore a protective armor around his whole torso, except for his arms and legs. The demons made way for the huge demon and the ground beneath him began to shake due to his weight and might.
"The Great Inutaisho!" the demon's booming voice said, roaring to Inutaisho, a few feet from him. "It'll be my pleasure to destroy you!" The demon roared and ran towards Inutaisho. His feet pounded against the ground, the earth cracking beneath his weight, as his face took on a sadistic look, wanting to spill Inutaisho's blood and kill the greatest demon that history has known.
Inutaisho remained calm as Sounga rested in his hand next to his side. He blocked Sesshomaru from the oncoming demon, but knew that his son could handle himself with the other demons. Inutaisho tilted his head, thinking of how to bring this demon down quickly so the others could receive the same fate. As the demon neared him, Inutaisho kicked off towards the demon and used his demonic speed to come up behind the large demon. The demon was too slow to realize his position and he used Sounga to hit the back of the demon. There was a loud sound as his blade hit the demon's armor and did nothing.
Inutaisho frowned in confusion, just as the demon stopped to realize Inutaisho's position. He cocked his head to the side and smirked at Inutaisho. Suddenly, the spot where Sounga was touching the demon's armor began to glow a bright, white light. Inutaisho felt the sudden change in Sounga's power and he quickly retracted his blade, jumping back a few feet.
The demon turned around, laughing in victory. "Oh… Inutaisho. Do you really think that blade of yours can cut me down?" He laugh victoriously, taking pleasure in Inutaisho's confused face.
The Sounga felt different. Inutaisho gazed at his blade in wonder. 'Sounga… you've become lighter.' Sounga's demonic energy had been sucked into the demon's armor. Inutaisho looked at the demon in front of him, where Sounga had cut the armor. The armor was slowly recovering itself, sealing the cut that he had made. Inutaisho inwardly cursed at his luck.
The demon roared and ran towards Inutaisho, raising his huge fist to bring it down. His fist pounded into the ground as Inutaisho avoided the strong, but slow, attack, leaping into the air to hover just above the demon's back again. As he went to the ground, the demon recovered, swinging out his arm but missed Inutaisho. Inutaisho ducked and cut the demon's legs, but again the Sounga barely made a scratch as it protested against the demon's steel skin. Inutaisho moved to avoid another attack and he dropped back a few feet.
The demon laughed loudly, just as the demons around him began to move in slowly, waiting for their chance. Some had gone around the two to attack Sesshomaru, which would be welcomed by his son, and Inutaisho could hear the sounds of metal behind him.
"I told you, Inutaisho… I shall be the one to bring you down."
Inutaisho just smirked. "What are you made of? You seem to have some very steel skin." He brought the Sounga up to his view to inspect his blade. Though the Sounga was drained of energy, it was still strong and formidable. In the right hands.
"I have been smart down the ages, eating the right demons and using the right things to my advantage," the demon said, walking towards Inutaisho. "And now… it has paid off. I shall kill you Inutaisho… and then I shall be the one to go down in history as the greatest demon of all."
The demon rushed towards Inutaisho again, driving his fists towards Inutaisho, but he kept missing. The demon was slow, but powerful, so all Inutaisho had to do was avoid the attacks and try to find a weak spot.
Inutaisho moved quickly, searching for the demon's weakness but also trying to avoid the powerful punches. He danced along the ground with the demon as the Earth around him kept getting destroyed as the demon missed him. He couldn't find anything, all of the demon's skin was made of the same, hard steel that he had tried to cut with the Sounga. And his claws wouldn't do any better damage than his blade did.
The demon caught Inutaisho just as he let down his guard. He punched Inutaisho on the side of his face, causing Inutaisho to be flown back a few feet and recover with staggered steps. Inutaisho placed his hand against his cheek as pain and anger flowed through him from the attack, blood oozing down his mouth. He let the anger control him, the pain take over his body until he couldn't feel the pain anymore. Just anger.
Inutaisho's glittering red eyes glared at the demon a few feet from him, catching the demon's shocked stare. His mouth began to elongate as he let the change take over. He called on his demon, allowing it to surface. He grew taller, his silver hair covered his whole body as he began to take the shape of a dog, his demon form. He padded softly on the ground, testing his weight after centuries of not using his demon form. It felt different, so unusual after so long, but he embraced the power that coursed through him. The sudden rush of adrenaline and power that had been cooped within his demon was rushing out and into him, filling him with a haze of bloodlust.
The demon gazed up at Inutaisho's true form with worry. Without hesitation, Inutaisho used one of his paws to knock the huge demon over. Then, he bent to bite off the demon's head, easily tearing the small thing in two. The other demons all gazed up at him with fright, seeing as how easily he had defeated the huge demon. And without waiting any longer, Inutaisho moved and swiped his claws at all the demons around him and his son. Sesshomaru was handling his own, but Inutaisho wanted the rush of the kill, the power that soaked into him. He hasn't been this free in years, and now he enjoyed it. It was a rush. It was like an aphrodisiac.
The demons screamed in pain as they were torn to pieces by Inutaisho. He used his claws and his teeth, anything to receive the demons' screams. Some demons were flown off the cliff. After the damage was done and the demons' blood and pieces remained scattered along the ground, Inutaisho's growl sounded throughout the silence.
Sesshomaru gazed up at his father's looming figure. "Father…" he said stoically, knowing his father could hear him. Sesshomaru began to walk closer to his father, gazing up at his father's face. "Come back, now."
The huge dog demon looked down at Sesshomaru and growled, the dark, deep growl sounding through the area around them. The sounds of metal and roars could be heard behind him, but his son was what kept the dog demon from leaping towards the bloodshed. And that easily, Inutaisho's figure transformed back into his human form as the dog shrank and reshaped into a man.
There was blood rolling down Inutaisho's lip, and Sesshomaru walked closer to his father, sniffing to make sure that was his father's only wound. Inutaisho blinked, watching his son with gratefulness in his eyes.
"Thank you, Sesshomaru." If it wasn't for Sesshomaru, he probably would have kept killing until nothing laid in his wake. That was the sheer adrenaline and rush of his demonic form.
Sesshomaru remained cold, though within his eyes Inutaisho could see his son's care and concern for him. "I do not take pleasure in letting you kill all these demons, leaving this Sesshomaru with nothing." Inutaisho just smiled, so much like Sesshomaru to say those kinds of things.
The two turned just as they sensed Inuyasha coming towards them. The Inu-hanyou rested Tetsaiga at his side as he looked frantically between his father and brother.
"Is everything all right? When I saw father's form… I was worried." Inuyasha looked at his father with worry and wonder. Inutaisho never released his demon. He remembered when he was small, his father had told him that the reason why he never changed into his demonic form was because he had done some dishonorable things back then. His mother had been the one to change Inutaisho's heart, and because of her, Inutaisho had vowed to never change into his demon form again. Of course, not unless it was needed. But here, Inuyasha didn't know if that was the case, which was why he had come to see what had happened to make his father change.
Inutaisho just simply smiled and waved it off. "Everything is fine." Was all he simply said. Inuyasha wasn't convinced but let it go, seeing that his father didn't want to talk about it anymore. He gazed into his father's eyes a little longer, and nodded his head.
"Miroku's hurt," he said, turning his back on his brother and father. "Sango's with him. But I want to get him out of here before something happens."
Inutaisho nodded his head, understanding the dire need they had now. "Then, let's go."
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Kagome grunted as Raige came at her with his claws, but she blocked it with the Kusanagi. The holy blade gleamed in the darkness, but she was still worried about the demonic presences around her. This place was filled with the dead, the undead and all the things within both realms. She wasn't comfortable here at all, which was probably why Raige had brought her here to begin with.
Raige leapt back a few feet as he watched Kagome catch her footing, too busy trying to survey her surroundings than fight with him. He smirked, a little offended but loving her divided attention. "You seem… stressed, Kagome," he said, drawing out her name.
Kagome gazed at him with a heated glare. "You brought me here so that I wouldn't be able to use the jewel… but then again, you wanted me to yourself."
Raige nodded his head to the side. "Yes. I don't want anyone else to interfere in our battle. Besides… there was too much distraction there," he said with a sigh.
Kagome frowned, noticing Raige's calm and collected demeanor. He didn't seem the least frightened or intimidated by her. He just seemed perfectly at ease, as if she couldn't do anything that would harm him. That alone made her angry, as if his stoic personality against her didn't rile her up already. Kagome gripped her Kusanagi with both hands and ran towards him, using the jewel's power to increase her speed to that of a demon's. Raige was taken aback and wasn't expecting her attack as she sliced his right shoulder, leaving a deep gash to the bone. She spun around to see Raige stumble back, away from her, gazing at his wound with wonder and curiosity.
Miasma began to spurt out of his wound as red blood oozed down his arm to drip along the dirt. The purple mist, poisonous to many humans, began to cloud around them as more miasma spilled out of Raige's body. As the miasma wrapped around her, threatening to poison her, Kagome noticed her miko energy was purifying the air around her. The ground was misted with miasma and some began to rise into the surrounding air, but it was as if a bubble had formed around her as her miko powers kept her immune to the poisonous air.
"That hurt, Kagome," Raige said, looking at his wound with curiosity. He could feel Kagome's miko energy purifying him from the inside out, originating from the wound she had made with her blade. This gave him pause, wondering how her purifying powers were in him. Her miko energy must transfer through the blade, which would explain why he was feeling her purification. Raige focused on his wound and used his body's miasma to counteract Kagome's purification, stopping it.
Raige lifted his head towards her, the miasma subsiding back into his body at his will, but blood continuing to ooze down his arm. "That wasn't very nice."
Kagome smirked. "Well, I'm not going to wait for you to do me the honors." She had the Kusanagi ready in front of her, expecting retaliation. And then Raige moved so quickly that she used the jewel again, moving to see him and blocking his attack. He was shocked, but recoiled to strike at her again, this time drawing his blade. The silver blade gleamed in the darkness around them as the metal hit against the Kusanagi, and they did battle within the air. Kagome was able to keep up with Raige's demonic speed with the Shikon no Tama. She moved quickly through the air, her miko robes sounding as it ruffled with her quick movements. Her hair was a black cascade of silk as she twisted and turned to avoid Raige's attacks, but to also counter back. None were making any progress though.
"It seems like you are quite a formidable foe, Kagome," Raige said, as the two of them floated above one of the floating platforms. Kagome regarded him with a steady stare and he couldn't help but admire her for her courage. "Which is why you would make a perfect mate for me."
"Inuyasha is my mate," she said, wanting to anger him even more, to get under his skin the same way he was getting under hers.
Raige glared at her, his sapphire eyes glowing red like his blood. "That Inu-hanyou had no right in claiming you. And I will be glad to show you how much it angered me that he did that to you." Raige raised his blade above his head and his black-bluish demonic energy began to wrap around the blade. It swirled quickly until it shot into the sky, forming a huge tornado that barreled towards her as he swung his blade down.
Kagome placed the Kusanagi in front of her and drew on her miko energy. She called on the Shikon no Tama and just as the tornado of Raige's demonic energy was about to hit her, the jewel shone bright and created a barrier around her. Kagome moved quickly into the tornado, coming out on the other side and rushing towards Raige. He noticed her at the last second and dodged her attack, and they were striking against each other again.
"You can't," Raige said, hitting against her, "defeat me, Kagome." He pushed back just as Kagome moved towards him again, continuing her assault.
"We shall see, Raige," Kagome said, striking against his sword but then sliding her sword down to his hilt and using her feet to strike him in his side. He wasn't expecting a physical hit and moved back, clutching his side.
Raige glared at Kagome. "Okay… now you're making me angry, Kagome," he said through gritted teeth.
Kagome moved back a few paces and smirked at him, wanting to get under his skin. "Good. It is good to see that you can actually feel."
Raige growled, lunging forward, striking blades with her. He glared into her eyes, saw her defiance and moved back, going forward again for another strike. The two moved along the ground as if they were dancing, totally in sync. Kagome lunged and then Raige lunged, both trying to make a blow, both evenly matched. They struck at each other as they breathed hard, the effort starting to take its toll.
Kagome pushed against Raige's sword as he kept his blade against hers, a smirk on his face. "You're getting tired," he noticed, smiling at his luck. He wouldn't have to kill her in the end, just like he wanted. He would simply make her do what he wanted since she would be too weak.
The blades slid against each other creating sparks as Kagome moved back along the ground, putting distance between them. She breathed through her nose, controlling her body's weariness. "In your dreams. I will not go down until I defeat you, Raige."
"Oh…" he said, slashing his sword in the air in front of him. "What if you can't? It seems like your human limitations are catching up to you."
He was taunting her, she knew, but she needed to end this fight. No matter how powerful Raige would prove to her to be, she would still kill him in the end. "I will do what I must to destroy you. No matter the consequences to myself." The Kusanagi glowed brightly as she held the blade in both hands directly in front of her.
Raige watched warily as Kagome's blade began to glow and he felt her miko energy all around him. He took a cautious step back, waiting for the attack that would surely come. The Kusanagi glowed in its brilliance, erupting like a sun within the Underworld. The demons below them began to howl in rage at the purity of the light.
The Kusanagi pulsed and Kagome glared at Raige. She lifted her sword and felt the power coursing through the blade. Raige braced himself and she let out her attack, her miko energy mixing with the blade's power to create a deadly force of purity between the two. Raige's eyes widened as the huge attack came barreling at him in the form of a white ball, splitting the land open in its path as it came straight towards him. He growled and angled his sword protectively in front of him, using his other hand to hold the sharp blade in its place once the miko energy hit him.
There was a loud blast as Kagome watched her attack hit Raige's blade, the two opposite forces crashing together in a destructive blow. Raige was pushed back a few feet before he regained his ground and used his demonic energy along with his sword's to counter Kagome's attack. Suddenly, there was a powerful blast as Kagome's attack burst, making Kagome shield her face from the sudden gust of wind that came from the attack. Her hair flew behind her in fury as the demons below began to howl again, feeling the pure energy, angered by being disturbed.
Suddenly, everything quieted. Kagome gasped and brought her hand down to find Raige. He was still standing, his blade in front of him the way she had last saw him. But now she saw his hands had been burned and parts of his kimono and hakama were shredded. Kagome smirked.
"It seems that you still live, Raige. How was it?" she taunted, bringing her blade in front of her.
Raige suddenly disappeared, making Kagome aware of her surroundings, and she found his aura. She brought up her blade just as Raige appeared out of nowhere, his angry face in front of hers, his blade pushing against hers in defiance.
"Kagome…" he said, his eyes flashing red. "It seems like you will defy me more than I thought." Raige pushed against her blade unexpectedly, making Kagome fumble backwards until she got a good grip, glaring at him. Raige placed his blade back in its sheath and stared at her silently. His eyes turned to red and his face began to elongate, his body shifting and bones cracking as he called forth his demon. He was angered at Kagome's powers and defiance. He had thought he would be able to bring her down easily and then make her his mate. But he was wrong. She was not only proving to be an equal, but they were taking longer than he wished and he was now getting fed up with this fight of theirs. They had been in here for hours now and he wanted to go back to the real world where blood was surely shedding and lives were ending.
Kagome gasped as Raige's form grew into the size of a huge dog demon, gazing down at her with evil intent. She held her blade in front of her, protectively. The dog demon stomped one paw on the ground, showing his mighty power as an Inu-Taiyoukai. Kagome moved back a few paces, keeping a wary eye on the feet of the demon. She began to think of how to attack this huge demon. The wound that she had given his human form was still there in his demon form, the dog's right shoulder sliced open and bleeding. Since size was obviously his advantage, she would have to use dodging and power to her own advantage here.
The dog-form Raige growled, his head going down to stare at her. Kagome took a deep breath, waiting for an attack, figuring out how to counter it. And then it came. Raige brought up one paw to swipe at Kagome, but she had jumped into the air, heading for the dog's back. It moved to the side, getting out of reach of her as she began to fall back to the ground. Kagome touched the ground and ran in a circle around Raige, keeping the distance between them but trying to find a weak spot. He tried to hit her but she kept dodging his strikes. The dog growled and pounced towards her, making Kagome having to use the Shikon no Tama to run faster. She moved with a demon's speed, blurry to the eye but the dog could see her and tried to pounce on her some more.
However, Kagome switched tactics, coming around his paws to get underneath the belly of the demon. She jumped towards his left side and struck with her Kusanagi, slicing open the dog's belly as it howled in pain. At once there was the sound of gas leaking out as Raige's miasma began to spurt from the demon's body. The demon was able to leap away from the blade. Kagome turned to face the dog as it jumped away, avoiding a longer wound, but the damage was done.
The dog glared at her as she fell back to the ground, her hair billowing around her like a halo, her marvelous work noticeable along the demon's silver hair. The wound went from the underside of the belly, halfway up to the back, blood leaking out and staining the ground below. Miasma was spewing from the wound, leaking into the air and onto the ground, creating a misty effect. Kagome inhaled quickly, watching as the miasma crowded closer to her. But the Shikon no Tama suddenly pulsed, making Kagome look down at the jewel against her chest. It began to swirl in light pink and dark pink, just as she felt the jewel's influence around her, purifying the miasma that would threaten to poison her lungs in seconds. Kagome smiled, thankful.
Raige glared at Kagome, enraged. He saw the Shikon no Tama protecting Kagome from his miasma and he became angrier, seeing as how things just weren't going his way. He allowed his demon to feel his anger, spurring the demon's lust for blood. The dog wagged its tail and placed both front paws solidly onto the ground, catching Kagome's attention. He opened his mouth, centering his demonic energy into his mouth. He watched as Kagome prepared for his attack, bringing her Kusanagi in front of her for any attack that was coming. But he would make sure that she wouldn't be able to get away from this one. He would strike her with this move and then they will both be even in wounds.
The energy swirled in his mouth until he felt it would be enough. Raige released his attack, twisting his head back to bring it back down, throwing the spears out of his mouth like sharp teeth heading towards Kagome. She hastily threw up a barrier just as his spears hit the shinning shield, becoming useless. Now, he was seething.
Kagome watched safely from inside her barrier as Raige transformed back to his human form. His wound seemed bigger in his human form as red blood oozed down his side, staining more of his white haori. The wound on his shoulder wasn't bleeding as severely anymore, but the blood still coated his shoulder, clotting up. His whole kimono was badly stained with blood, and Kagome found herself smiling despite everything.
"What are you smiling about?" Raige asked through clenched teeth, flexing and clenching his claws in an effort to remain calm. He couldn't kill her, wouldn't, but he could punish her. Show her who was in charge, who was dominant, and he would make her submit to him. Raige's eyes flashed from blue to red, his blood boiling at her defiance to his power.
Kagome tilted her head to the side, her hair spilling over her shoulder. "It seems to me that you are the only one bearing wounds, Raige," she said, saying his name to prove her point to him. "I, however, have received no wounds from you." Her face was left in confusion as she humorously pondered on that revelation.
Raige growled, baring his fangs at her. "Your petty games are not humoring me, Kagome. In fact, I find myself enraged at your comedy." Raige didn't wait for her. He moved quickly, blurring his image. Kagome gripped her sword and looked for him, using the power of the jewel for help. She brought up her sword at the last minute, noticing Raige before he was too close to her. She grunted as he struck her sword, his eyes red. She pressed her lips together and moved her sword against his, moving back as he came forward, striking at her furiously. She felt it in the blows, knew he was enraged and angry, and knew he meant to kill her now.
The two danced along the ground together and Raige was able to strike Kagome, leaving a deep slice from her left shoulder down to the middle of her back. Her kimono was split open where now her white kimono was stained with blood too. Kagome and Raige continued to strike blows, receiving and giving hits, waiting for the other to surrender.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Inuyasha growled and charged the demons in front of him, slicing and hacking until none remained in his way. He continued forward, doing battle with the more experienced demons. Some demons were easier to kill, he found, probably because they had forgotten how to fight and succumbed to the modern pleasures of this time. But Inuyasha knew that there were some experienced fighters and those were the ones he was looking for.
Kagome still hasn't come back from wherever Raige took her and he was worried. He had wanted to finish Raige off himself, but just like Kagome said, it seems that she would be the one to do it. He tried to settle with that fact, with the knowledge that Kagome would get revenge for him and Kikyo. But then, he wanted her to come back, he needed her to come back. And he hoped that she would be able to do so.
Inuyasha roared as he charged at a demon, the demon's sword suddenly coming up to block his sword. He smirked. 'Perfect.' He found a new opponent.
Sango and Miroku fought together, watching each other's backs as they whacked at the demons around them. There were only a few demons left as the hours had gone by, but there were sure to be more around the island, terrorizing the people on this island.
"Miroku!" Sango said, turning around to see him swamped by four demons. He had his staff up, protecting him from the swords that were above his head, waiting to slice him. She pressed her lips together and spun around, flying Hiraikotsu towards the demons. The weapon hacked at the demons in a circle around Miroku and came right back towards her.
Miroku brought his staff back to his side and sighed with a grateful smile towards her. "Thanks, Sango." She smiled and nodded, turning back around to roar at the next demons that she would kill.
Inutaisho and Sesshomaru were working their way back in from the edge of the cliff. The demons were only coming in a few numbers now as they were able to see less demon figures through the misty area around them. But the two could hear the others and knew their locations even if they couldn't see them.
Inutaisho charged through the demons, slicing them with his Sounga as he made a path through the group of demons. Demons fell at his feet and he waited for the next ones to come at him, the Sounga resting at his side. When they did come, he spun in a circle and squatted to get the underside of the demons, so they would be unable to block his sword. They all screamed in pain and fell backwards, creating more room for Inutaisho to move. The others began to scream in rage as their comrades were easily slain by Inutaisho, all knowing full well the stories of him, but they went after him with vengeance. Inutaisho smirked.
Sesshomaru used his poison whip to cut the demons around him in half, easily defeating many at once. His Tokejin waited in its sheath as he used his claws to defeat the demons, wanting the bloodshed, loving the battle. He hadn't fought in years and it felt good to indulge in the desire for bloodshed and strength. It swept through him like a drug and he wanted it to flood through him until he had to go back to the life of a businessman again, cooped in his office all day long. Sesshomaru was emotionless as he ran through the group, dodging their attacks and striking with his own.
"Ha!" Inuyasha said, killing another experienced demon as its body fell to the ground in front of him. He smirked, proud, as he placed his free hand on his hip. There was a whizzing in the air as his ears tuned in to the sound coming from behind him. Inuyasha spun around and brought up his Tetsaiga just as a spear struck against the blade. He looked at the weapon in shock, and then brought down his Tetsaiga as the spear fell harmlessly to the ground. He gazed ahead as a figure made its way over the dead bodies. The figure seemed familiar as it appeared out of the mist of the clouds, taking the shape of a woman. He sniffed and noticed the scent immediately.
"Kaya," he said with a growl, itching to fight her. It was his luck that she would show up now. Inuyasha smirked as he gripped Tetsaiga in front of him, waiting for her to come at him. "Long time no see."
The figure walked closer until Kaya could actually be seen. Her long black hair flowed down to her knees, tied up in a ponytail high on her head. Her black tail came around her body to tease at her right thigh, as her orange eyes took in the hanyou in front of her. She made a face and tilted her head up. "Oh well… hanyou. I guess you can be my first victim."
Inuyasha smirked. "My pleasure."
"You know," she said, starting to walk towards him slowly. They were but a few paces away from each other. "I don't think this might last long."
Inuyasha huffed. "Yeah, what a bummer." He charged at her, just as Kaya smiled and welcomed him to come at her. She opened her arms out, making him think that he would make an easy strike against her. But he knew that she was planning something so he struck anyway, wanting to see what she would do. She was gone before his Tetsaiga was brought down and he quickly searched for her, finding her behind him. He heard her giggle before he spun around, but he swiped with his sword and she leapt into the air, doing a backwards flip away from him, landing silently on the ground.
"Oh, hanyou. You don't seem strong enough for me," she said tauntingly, looking at her nails in boredom.
Inuyasha growled and ran towards her. Kaya smirked, glad to have made him angry, and leapt up just as Inuyasha struck where she once stood. She hovered above him, giggling, and he followed. The two were in the air, Kaya dodging his strikes gracefully as her swift, feline abilities helped her to dodge the attacks. Inuyasha growled angrily, moving high above Kaya.
"Wind Scar!" Kaya wasn't prepared for the attack as her eyes widened and she tried to dodge it. She screamed as one of the scars hit her, cutting at her right thigh as she leapt away. Searing pain scorched her whole leg as blood leaked down her leg. The leather pants she wore was torn from near her hip down in a curve to her knee. She sucked in her breath as she landed on the ground, safe but wounded.
Inuyasha smirked as he landed, placing the Tetsaiga on his shoulder as he regarded Kaya. "It seems like this might be over really soon."
Kaya glared daggers at Inuyasha as she glanced at him, fire burning in her orange eyes. She growled and ran towards him, her claws flexed at her side. Inuyasha gladly accepted her attacks as he countered them, blocking, attacking, both fighting to win. Kaya roared as her anger took over and all she wanted was him dead.
Inuyasha blocked her claws with his blade and attacked, getting a hit on her left shoulder. Kaya screamed and moved away from him, putting distance between them as she examined her shoulder. Pain flooded through her arm, but most heavily was her anger. She glared at Inuyasha, feeling like she had enough. Kaya charged at him, going to the belt on her waist to grab her whip. She grabbed the handle and whipped at Inuyasha, catching the hanyou's left arm as he was stunned by the sudden capture. She yanked at him, flying him off his feet as she threw him over her head and down onto the ground. She heard him groan at the impact and ran towards the dust that was settling around him to get him while he was still wounded.
The whip came again and Inuyasha blocked it with his blade, growling. He quickly got up and used the Wind Scar, but Kaya had jumped into the air. He saw her whip out and he dodged the whip that hit the ground and cause a small hole to form in its wake. He growled and kept dodging as he heard the sound of the whip, helping him to dodge the attack before it came. Kaya kept running after him until Inuyasha spun around and blocked the whip.
He twisted the Tetsaiga, twisting himself so that the Tetsiaga would get caught in the whip. Once it was secured and Kaya couldn't withdraw her whip, he ran towards her, yanking at the whip as she was tugged forward. Her wide eyes were all he saw before he brought his Tetsaiga down.
Kaya leapt away at the last minute, abandoning her weapon as the whip fell helplessly from Inuyasha's blade. She glared at him as she landed softly and watched as he moved to face her.
"You're pretty smart… for a hanyou," she taunted. Kaya smirked as Inuyasha simply shrugged.
"And you're pretty cowardly… for a cat." He smirked when he saw he hit the spot and she roared in her anger and frustration. She ran towards him, her right hand flying above her head as it glowed a fierce orange. He watched and waited for an attack that came as Kaya brought down her hand, and five orange lines came barreling his way, tearing into the ground waiting to hit him. He leapt above the attack and Kaya did as well, reading his moves. They battled in the air, claws against claws, as Inuyasha could only smirk at Kaya's increase in attacks and urgency. She was angry with him, and it showed in her attacks and body language.
"Why so angry Kaya?" he taunted, wanting to get under her skin so she would lose control. He saw a vein tick above her brow and knew that she was getting fed up with him.
"You talk too much, hanyou!" Kaya said as she went in for another blow, that was countered with Inuyasha's claws. She had to give him credit, as much as she didn't want to, for he was countering and blocking her swift moves. He didn't seem like an ordinary hanyou if he could stand up to her and match her, a full-blooded neko. But she was still going to defeat him, no matter what.
The two fell to the ground and began to strike at each other with their claws again, both frustrated and taunting. They moved as one, pushed back only to go at each other with the same frustration and determination as last time. Inuyasha jumped into the air as Kaya went for a strike to his legs and then jumped up towards him. They began to strike at each other in the air, landing blows as it was harder to maneuver with gravity. Inuyasha led her higher and higher into the air as they continued to push at each other, growling their frustration. He roared as he coated his claws with his blood and attacked Kaya with his Blades of Blood. She screamed in pain as she was hit, not expecting such an attack from him.
The two combatants fell to the ground. Once Inuyasha's feet hit the ground, he drew his Tetsaiga, pointing the huge fang at Kaya's injured figure.
"Time to end this!" he said, running at her.
Kaya's eyes widened as Inuyasha lifted his blade and she turned to run. Just as she turned around, her eyes fell upon the figure of Inutaisho. His face was etched in stone as he uncaringly looked at her with his stoic eyes. Her eyes widened in fear as she realized that she was cornered by both Inu-demons.
Inuyasha saw his opportunity. "Wind Scar!" he yelled, as his Tetsaiga erupted in demonic energy that shot out towards Kaya. The ground erupted where the scars buried into the ground, heading straight towards Kaya like a locomotive. She could only stare in disbelief at Inutaisho, looking into his eyes to see nothing there. His face was smooth and cool as she waited for the death that would await her. And then, at the last moment, she saw his eyes change. 'Pity?' she thought.
The Wind Scar struck at Kaya's back, Inutaisho leaping into the air to get out of the attack's path, lighting up her figure and blinding the others as it did its job. Inuyasha lowered his Tetsaiga as the light faded and Kaya's body was no more. He huffed, not caring to smile for his victory. He looked ahead at his father to see that he carried the same look in his eyes that he must be showing. Inuyasha shook his head and turned towards the others, going to lend his hand to end this futile war.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
The ground was a blur to them as Koga and Ayame ran as quickly as they could towards the sea where the fishing boats awaited. Time meant nothing to them, only getting there safely and with their precious cargo mattered. Koga glanced down in his arms to see Kikyo's peaceful face. He quickly looked back up towards the land, unable to look at his friend any longer. He couldn't think of Kikyo being dead. Not now. Things were too heated and he needed to get her and Ayame out of harm's way before he could process all this information.
"Koga!" Ayame said, catching his attention right away. "Up ahead!"
He took a look far ahead and noticed that a band of demons were near the shore fighting with their demons. He then noticed the fishing boats docked in their same places out in sea.
"Forget about the demons, Ayame. Head straight to the boats," he ordered, not wanting her to fight any demons without him being there. And he couldn't fight anyone with Kikyo in his arms.
The two ran towards the shore quickly, covering ground easily, and finally came upon the battle that was unfolding. Demon bodies littered the ground, some were their comrades, and they could only pass by without a glance at the bodies. Koga kept his focus on trying not to draw attention and to get by easily without any hassles. Ayame kept close on his heels as they ran, the sand being kicked up and sprayed into the air in their wake. Blood permeated the air, thick and vile, but they kept trying to avoid the large group fighting each other.
A snarl caught Koga's attention but didn't stop him from running. He glanced to his side to see three demons catching up to them, their weapons drawn in their hands. He cursed, making Ayame turn to see their guests as well.
"Well, it seems like we have a welcoming party," Ayame said with satisfaction as she flexed her claws.
Koga glared behind over his shoulder at her. "I told you, we are not fighting, Ayame. We head straight for the boats!"
Ayame glanced at him, and then kept her attention on the approaching enemies. "I'll watch your back."
Koga growled. "Ayame!" He didn't like her disobeying him now, not when her life would be in peril and he couldn't protect her. But the enemies were approaching quickly as the water came closer.
One demon jumped up, making Ayame keep her eyes on him, and as the demon fell towards the earth above Koga, she leapt into the air, blocking the demon's blade with her own. Koga growled and stopped, the sand spurting up from his immediate stop, and he turned around to face the other two demons. Bracing Kikyo securely against his chest, he ducked as a blade came swinging at him. He heard a chain being swung and as he got to his full height he noticed a spiked-ball come flying straight at him. He jumped out of the way just in time as the ball hit the ground and sand erupted from where he once stood.
Koga growled and the two demons were on him, trying to land a hit, but he was dodging their attacks as best he could. He kept moving back along the sand, away from the sea, as it seemed like the demons knew where they were going in the first place. He cursed to himself as he tried to dodge the attacks that kept flying at him continuously.
Ayame growled as she struck blades again with the demon in the air. It was a fat, oversized demon and she knew that her speed would be the end of him. So she used it to her advantage. Once they touched ground, Ayame dodged his attack and then ran around him towards his back. He hadn't been expecting it and was too slow as she sliced him, earning a cry of pain from him. She did it again and again, using her speed as the demon fell forward from the sudden pain of her attacks. She then pierced through his heart with her blade and withdrew, watching as the demon fell face first against the sand. She huffed, throwing her head back to get her bangs out of her face. Her attention was then drawn to Koga as he was struggling against the two demons. She quickly made her way to his side and surprised one demon as she came up behind him and sliced its head off. The other demon noticed the death and roared at her as he came towards her with his sword. Koga was able to trip the demon, the two working together to end this quickly, and as the demon came stumbling towards her she cut off its head, the blood spurting out on the both of them.
Blood dripped from Ayame's sword as a few dots stained her cheek. "We have to hurry," she said, looking behind Koga to see other demons noticing them. Koga turned around to see the same and nodded his head, running quickly towards the breaking waves. Ayame followed close behind him, intending to back him up should the need arise. Koga jumped at the last minute before the water's edge and the two flew towards the boats waiting a few yards offshore.
They easily fell onto one of the boats softly and some of the fishermen looked at them with wide-shocked eyes.
"Leave! Now! We head for Honshu!" Koga ordered. The fishermen onboard nodded their heads at his insistency and began to prepare for a departure. Koga watched as the humans busied themselves and then turned around to see Ayame standing on the edge of the boat, her katana still drawn.
"They're coming for us," she said, her back towards him, as she stared out towards the shore. The demons were watching them and yelling, but some were transforming into their demon forms, unable to let them escape easily. Ayame cursed and jumped from the boat to meet the attack.
"Ayame!" Koga screamed as she leapt off the boat. "Fuck!" he exclaimed, angered that she had left, turning around to head into the little space below deck where a small futon laid in case anyone needed a break. He gently placed Kikyo onto the futon, taking one last glance at her still figure with a frown, and then turned around to head back on deck. He drew his katana, earning a few worried glances from the helpers. "Make sure no one or nothing goes down there, understood?"
The fishermen nodded their heads and kept preparing the boat as Koga nodded and headed towards the front of the ship. He stood at the edge and launched himself into the sky, meeting one of Ayame's attackers and slicing at the ghoulish demon. Four more demons that seemed like dark, moving clouds came towards them and he placed himself in front of Ayame to take on the first attackers.
They came with a brunt assault. Koga grunted as one demon bared its teeth at him and tried to take a bite, but Koga had his katana out in front of him. Another demon went after Koga as Ayame was left with the other two. She twisted in the air as one demon missed her and attacked the other as it came at her. Going onto its back, Ayame pierced her katana into the demon, hearing its roar of pain as it bucked to try and get her off. The other demon, however, worked its way above and its open jaws threatened to eat her alive.
Ayame got off the demon just as the other was about to chew her into pieces. The two demons bumped into each other angrily, trying to find where she had gone. Ayame was high above them, holding her katana with both hands as she fell down onto one of the demons, piercing through its forehead and the katana's tip coming out below its jaw. She grunted as the demon stopped moving and began to fall towards the ocean. She withdrew her weapon and jumped before the other demon could attack her. It continued with a frenzy, probably trying to avenge its fallen comrade, but nonetheless wouldn't stop attacking her. Ayame was left to defend herself.
Koga grunted as a demon knocked him right on his side, knocking the wind out of him. He held onto the demon's head as it twisted around to wait for an attack by the other demon. Koga turned to look over his shoulder as the demon barreled at him, its mouth hanging open with saliva dripping down its sharp teeth.
"Now…" the demon said, the one he was hanging onto, "you die." Koga looked down at the demon's forehead with a smirk.
"I think you'll die first, idiot." Koga waited until the last minute as the other demon came barreling at them to let go of the demon he had and he went falling through the sky. He glanced up to see the demons realizing what just happened, but only at the last minute. The other demon was going too fast and his teeth met the head of the demon he was just hanging onto. Koga smirked as he fell down to the sea, twisting so that he would land on the boat. Once he touched the boat, he noticed everything was in order and the fishermen were all waiting for orders.
"We are ready!" one fisherman called, and he nodded his head, glancing up to see Ayame struggling against a demon. And the other one that he just avoided was going after her. Koga growled and ran towards the front of the boat, getting some speed before he launched himself into the air, straight for the demon going towards Ayame.
"Piece. Of. Shit!" Ayame yelled as she continued to block this demon's vicious teeth. It was hitting its head against her blade, using its teeth, anything to get a hit on her. She couldn't even strike back from its rapid attacks against her. And then, she felt another demon behind her and she could only quickly glance over her shoulder to see that another demon was coming at her. "Fuck!" she said, trying to make a strike but having to block herself again.
Just then, she heard a roar behind her, but couldn't turn around to find out what it was. Then, she noticed Koga up above the demon she fought with and he plunged his katana straight into the demon's back, slicing and cutting bone as Koga dragged his blade down the demon's back. The demon cried out in pain and writhed around, trying to get Koga off his back, but Koga did more damage than it could withstand. Slowly, the demon lost its strength and began to plummet towards the ocean.
Koga grabbed Ayame's arm and they both fell back down onto the boat, rocking it a bit, but safe.
"Go! Back to Honshu!" he called out towards the fishermen, and knew that they would obey him. He then turned his attention to his mate as he could smell Ayame's blood and his demon boiled at the fact that Ayame was hurt.
"I'm fine, Koga," Ayame said as Koga fretted over her, checking her body for wounds. She only had a cut on her right forearm, and it only stung, nothing too serious. She just needed to get it covered and stop the bleeding. "Koga," she tried again, using her free hand as she placed it on his cheek.
Koga frowned as he gazed into Ayame's eyes, seeing the courage within her eyes. Her smile lightened his heart and he felt a smile forming on his face as well.
"I'm fine," she said reassuringly. Ayame placed her katana back in its sheath and wrapped her arms around Koga, glad that they were both alive and well. Koga hugged her hack, keeping the katana away from her body, and breathed in the smell of her hair for comfort.
The boat began to rock as they were heading back to Honshu, and the two released each other to look back at Shikoku Island they were leaving behind. The ominous clouds still loomed over the highest peaks of the mountains, obscuring their view. The two worried over their friends and their safety, knowing that they would have to wait on Honshu for their arrival.
Koga knew that Kagome had not only asked him to take Kikyo back to Honshu, but for him to stay with her and guard her body until they returned. And that was what he was focusing on, depending on. Their safe return. As he gazed up at the ominous clouds hiding the mountains, he reached for Kagome, wishing he could see her. 'You better come back,' he thought as the boat rocked back and forth, heading away from the battles on Shikoku. Ayame remained safe in his arms as they stared at the island, praying for their friends.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Time seemed like nothing where they were. They were fighting in an endless sea of time, uncaring of what was around them, of what was to come. It was only in the moment, this undying moment of good versus evil that brought these two to create their own world.
Kagome and Raige moved as if they had been fighting for years, knowing each other's next move and countering it with their own. But for a time now, they were getting tired. Their bodies received many wounds, some deep and some just a scratch, but their blood began to mingle with each other within the dirt and upon their clothes.
Kagome caught her footing as she regarded Raige with a blank stare, trying to control her breathing at this point. She was tired, and she didn't know how long they had been fighting, but she was losing strength and blood. She could tell that Raige was being affected as well by the cuts she made from her Kusanagi. After a while, she had noticed that he could no longer use the miasma within his body to counteract her purity. From all the cuts she had made, it was now taking its toll on Raige's body and her purity was purifying him from the inside out slowly.
"You lose, Raige," she said, moving a bit back to put more space between them. She needed some time to breathe.
Raige smirked, noticing her weariness, and needing to take advantage of it before Kagome would actually live up to her words. He put on a burst of speed, forgetting about the pain that flooded through his body from her continuing miko energy. He couldn't counter her spiritual powers anymore within his body so he had been careful to try and avoid her blade, but to no avail. Actually, he wasn't angry at himself. He made some cuts on Kagome as well, some of which were life threatening.
Kagome's eyes widened and she pressed her lips together as Raige came at her quickly, almost too fast for her slowing brain to process. She put her blade up and Raige's own connected with hers. Kagome noticed the glint in his eyes and wondered what he was up to, but before she had time to prepare herself for his next move, it came without warning.
The sound of soft tissue splitting was loud between them, and Kagome could only stare up at Raige with pain-filled eyes. She bit her bottom lip and gazed down at his sword embedded within her abdomen. The hilt was nearly touching her stomach, and she had to find her footing as he moved, squatting down a bit to catch her eyes.
"I never lose, Kagome." Raige smiled, his eyes holding mischief and purpose when he was bleeding from many wounds and the ground was covered in their blood.
Kagome swallowed, feeling her muscles spasm around the blade, making her body feel pain much more easily. She groaned and placed her left hand on his blade, staring into his eyes with fire. Without wasting time, Kagome concentrated her attack on his face, using her miko energy and blasted it out at him. Raige screamed out in pain and drew out his blade, making Kagome cry out in pain as well. He was pushed back a few feet, his free hand going to his face, as Kagome fell to the ground, onto her knees, gazing up at him as she held onto her wound to try and prevent the loss of blood.
Raige was grasping and scratching at his face as he turned his back to her and staggered along the ground as if something was on his face and he couldn't get it off. Kagome then turned her attention to her wound as Raige was a little occupied at the moment with his wound she had given him. Reaching into herself, she began to heal the major parts that needed attention. The wound was worse than she had thought, and it would need her immediate attention quickly, before she lost too much blood. It would all be over.
There was a stirring her mind as she was brought back to consciousness by the Shikon no Tama warning her. Raige had faced her again, and his eyes were blood-red. A snarl was on his face and it looked as if her miko energy had burned nearly half of his face. From his chin up to his right temple, his skin was filled with lumps with puss in them. Some lumps were huge and others were small, but they covered most of the right side of his face, making him seem more like a monster than ever. Kagome hid her smirk at her job well done and slowly got to her feet as Raige regarded her with that deadly stare.
"You'll pay, Kagome," he said, his voice lower as his demon was surfacing. "We will die together now. I have had enough." Raige's body began to contort and contract until he changed into his demon shape.
Now, she had bigger problems to deal with. Kagome held her blade steadily in front of her, watching Raige's movements as the dog took a few steps towards her, its deep growl erupting through the endless darkness.
She took a deep breath, steeling her body from the pain, and moved as Raige's paw came down where she had once been. She ran towards him with her sword at her side, intending to cut off his limbs and make him immobile to end this. Either she would die of blood loss or he would die of her spiritual energy. So she needed to act quickly, rushing towards him and avoiding his attacks as his paws tried to squish her against the ground. Kagome kept her footing as she used her unearthly speed and reached the ground next to his feet. She quickly made her way up his front leg, gaining his immediate attention as Raige began to leap in the air, shaking his paw to try and get her off. But she had made it to the juncture of his shoulder and Kagome gripped her blade, bringing it down to slice his left, front paw right off.
The dog demon howled in pain, echoing into the darkness. Its roar triggered a reply from the demons around them, their cry of rage and desperation echoed throughout the emptiness. Kagome landed back on the ground and gazed around wearily, the deafening sounds of the demons making the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. This wasn't good. The demons were starting to act up, knowing there were two live souls here that they could feast on. She needed to end it soon before they came for the jewel.
Glancing at the dog demon, she noticed that Raige was indeed injured as he stumbled along the ground, trying to catch his footing with three legs. Kagome smirked to herself, waiting for his attack that came swiftly. The ground trembled and it exploded around her, his attack coming from underground as she felt the force thrust her into the air, slicing at her arms as she covered her face. Her miko robes were chopped up and bloodied, as bad as Raige's had been.
Kagome flew into the air as rocks spurted out towards her, scratching her skin and leaving bruises when they couldn't pierce her. She hastily threw up a barrier and watched as the rocks began to lose strength and most flew past her harmlessly or hit her barrier and fell to the ground. She huffed, assessing her wounds quickly as Raige readied his next attack. She saw movement and looked up to see Raige running towards her, his huge mouth hung open in desire for her, and she placed up her blade protectively in front of her, her left hand against the blade.
The Kusanagi threw out its spiritual energy, guarding its priestess. Spears of white light soared through the air, going for Raige as the dog ran towards Kagome. From within his mouth grew a ball of energy, growing bigger as his jaw opened wider until it finally was released. The two energies crackled as they hit each other, some power passing by, going towards Raige or Kagome.
Kagome threw up a barrier to help the Kusanagi and began to chant a prayer, watching as a circle formed along the ground around Raige. The dog didn't seem to notice as the blue light shone brightly once, catching the dog's attention, but by then it was too late. The dog was sealed where he was, unable to move, a victim to Kagome's will. His sapphire eyes glared at Kagome, with the promise of vengeance, and she took her opportunity without waiting, chanting and watching as the seal she placed on the ground began to glow again. White spears shot out of the seal, tearing at Raige, making his white fur red with blood as his cuts were many along his huge body. Miasma began to ooze from every wound, flowing out like mist along his fur, but there were only a little this time, as it was obvious Raige was growing weaker by the moment. Kagome huffed, feeling drained as well, as her body became sluggish from using so much energy.
The Shikon no Tama glowed brightly, making Kagome turn her attention to the jewel. She glanced down at the ball of light against her chest, yearning for her attention. 'Shikon no Tama… is it time?' Kagome glanced back up as Raige broke through her seal, the blue light shattering along the ground and disappearing as if it had never been. Her eyes widened as she was too late to avoid his attack and he came at her, using his huge claws to tear deep gouges into her skin. Kagome cried out in pain as she flew back, hitting the ground hard and sliding along the dirt until she came to a stop.
She took in deep breaths as she pushed herself into a sitting position, groaning at the effort it took to move. She was tired. So very tired. Her body felt like dead weight, so much so that she was beginning to lose hope. She had used all of her energy to try and kill Raige, and yet he was still alive. Though he was probably in the same shape as she was, he was able to stand, able to break her seal on him. Kagome kept her eyes on him as she got to her feet, slowly. Her body protested to the movement, but she had to get up and face her enemy. No matter what, she would get rid of Raige.
Kagome gripped her Kusanagi tightly in her hands, keeping her head high as she refused to show her weakness to him. The dog was facing her, breathing heavily and bleeding profusely. His left leg had been sliced off and blood fell to the ground in huge globs. There was only little miasma left flowing out of his body, and the air around them had cleared during the time they had been fighting. But now, Kagome had to concentrate on ending this quickly before she bled out too. She sighed slowly, noticing Raige take a small shift to his side.
"You would still refuse me, Kagome?" Raige's voice asked, though the dog's mouth hadn't even moved.
Kagome smirked, her arms resting comfortably at her side, noticing the small break she had now. "I will never be yours, Raige." She watched as the dog simply stood crookedly on three legs, glaring at her with its red eyes. She stood her ground, waiting for an attack and preparing her own. This would be her final chance. Whatever she would throw out at Raige would have to kill him. If not, she would be left weak and unable to move from loss of blood and energy. She would give this one her all and hope that it would be enough.
The dog simply watched Kagome with a clear intention in its eyes. It bared its fangs, saliva dripping from its mouth and onto the ground along with its blood pooling at its feet. It stared at the jewel on Kagome's chest. Raige snarled at her. "Then if I can't have you… no one will."
With his promise, he lunged for her, intending to rip her apart piece by piece. He put on a burst of speed and noticed Kagome did the same as well as she avoided his attack. He growled angrily, wanting to get a finish on this before he was too weak to heal himself. If Kagome won't be his, then he won't let that half-breed have her either. Raige followed her movements as Kagome backed away from him, avoiding his attacks swiftly. He could still trace her movements, but he couldn't get a strike on her.
Kagome concentrated and focused all her energy on her attack, summoning a spell that would bind Raige and then purify him within her seal. She would have to use all of her energy to do it, but it was the only way to kill him. Kagome pressed her lips together and concentrated while avoiding Raige's attack. She could tell he knew she was up to something because his attacks came more swiftly and persistently. She had to put more of her concentration on avoiding his attacks than anything. She grunted as she hit the ground running, trying to put distance between them to give her more time. But Raige wouldn't allow it, so it was now or never, no matter how prepared she was.
As Raige brought down his paw, Kagome jumped into the air at the last moment and sheathed her Kusanagi, turning around to face him. Raige was just turning around to see where she had jumped to when she swiftly made her move. Kagome brought her hands up in front of her, making designs in the air as she chanted. The dog crouched and was about to spring after her when a light blue light shone bright beneath its paws and blinded it. Kagome's voice floated around him as the light shone all around him and the seal became noticeable on the ground. The characters shone brightly within the seal, holding Raige prisoner for the priestess to purify him. The dog could only glare at Kagome as she kept her hands in front of her in prayer, watching as the seal began to glow brightly. Then, the light erupted strongly, lighting the darkness around them and causing a huge uproar from the demons below, angered to have such a pure light disturb them. Kagome forgot all about her surroundings and concentrated on her attack, putting all her focus and energy into it. Though she couldn't see the dog, she could feel it in her seal. Its heavy weight, its heart beating quickly in desperation and fear as to it realizing that it was going to die. She would take no chances anymore. Raige would die now.
She felt it then. Felt it before she heard the sound of her bones and muscles breaking and tearing open from within her. Kagome opened her mouth in a silent scream of pain as Raige's bolts of energy had embedded themselves into her body. Lights streaked towards the sky as it tore through Kagome's body, shreds of skin and blood following the trails of light, but Kagome's eyes were solely focused on Raige. She met the dog's eyes, seeing those blue orbs darkened with rage through the blinding light around them.
"Raige…" she whispered, blood filling her mouth and leaking down the side, pain erupting through her body until she was numb with it. But Kagome's whole focus was on her spell that would forever destroy this dog demon and rid him of her family and friends' futures. She would do this for them. She would take Raige with her.
The Shikon no Tama suddenly flashed a bright white light, hearing its priestess' prayers and aiding her in her struggle. Kagome glanced down at the bright jewel, though the light had no strain on her eyes, as the jewel ignited the darkness into a pure light. 'It is time…' Kagome closed her eyes and yanked the jewel off its chain against her neck, the precious gems that her Brothers had forged together falling to the ground at her feet.
Raige erupted in a howl as he noticed the jewel's powers and could feel it adding to Kagome's hold over him. He needed to act quickly if he was to be free of this bind. He concentrated all his energy and tried to jump away, but his paws were still stuck to the characters on the ground, binding him to them with an unknown power that he had never felt before. Kagome was strong. Stronger than he expected, and now it seemed like he would be paying the price for his underestimating.
The Shikon no Tama's light suddenly stopped, only the light beneath Raige erupting into the darkness around them, creating an earthly glow sprouting beneath Raige. Kagome kept her eyes closed and focused on the jewel's power, ready to channel its energy so she could defeat this monster. 'Inuyasha…' His image came to her mind, her son, her family, her friends. She was doing this for them. Again. She would do this for them.
Kagome began to chant as the jewel began to glow again, softly at first, but as she continued to chant and feed her energy to the jewel, the light began to burn brighter. Raige could feel a sudden change in the atmosphere and a burning throughout his whole body. She was purifying him from the inside out.
'This can't be!' he thought, the dog's face suddenly dawning with shock and registration. This would be it. Kagome's power, along with the Shikon no Tama's, was purifying him. He could feel both of them working together to rid him, and it was working. He couldn't move. He tried, was still trying, but he couldn't even budge from this hold this seal had on him. He couldn't even summon enough strength to attack again, and he didn't have the time.
Suddenly, the Shikon no Tama began to hover above Kagome's hands as she held them out in front of her for the jewel to do her bidding. Her eyes were closed as she continued to chant high above him, suspended in the air like the angel that she was. He still thought her to be beautiful, even though she would kill him in the next second. He still thought her to be a beautiful priestess and wished that she could have been his. His alone, her power with his, they would have been perfect for each other. The dog twitched its tail as it saw the jewel glow its brightest, blinding him, making him unable to see Kagome any longer and he felt his body begin to burn.
Kagome's eyes opened slowly as her chanting subsided and the jewel's power began to pulse through her. It was ready to end this, and she was ready to watch Raige die from her hands. The Shikon no Tama pulsed once and then she heard Raige's howl of pain. She watched as the dog demon tried in vain to escape the tormenting pain that it was stuck in, but it couldn't move out of the grasp of her seal. The Shikon no Tama was purifying it and Kagome watched as the dog demon began to dissolve into ashes. From the tail up, Raige began to dissolve into thin air, nothing more to remember him by.
At the last moment, as his head was the only thing left, the dog demon's eyes glanced up to meet her stare. Kagome held her breath for what felt like an eternity as she saw Raige's recognition that he had lost to her. She waited a heartbeat and then she heard his voice as the Shikon no Tama finished what was left of him.
"We die together…" was the last thing he said as the seal suddenly erupted, having done its job, and Raige was no more.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Sango and Miroku made their way to the others after having fought through the mass of demons that were slowly dwindling in numbers. They were winning the war, and the demons were starting to realize they were to lose. Some had fled in terror of being killed while some had stayed, either determined to see this through or just out of plain stupidity to think they could gain the Shikon no Tama for themselves. Either way, the number of demons had drastically fallen and the gang was now close to finishing this battle on Shikoku Island.
"Inuyasha!" Sango yelled as she threw her Hiraikotsu into the demons around her and Miroku. They had been fighting for hours and Miroku's shoulder injury was still bad, but not bleeding as bad as it had been. The pain, however, she could tell was still killing him. His movements had been slower than usual now, which made her worry even more. Sango found Inuyasha's figure up ahead and thanked the Gods.
"Inuyasha!" Inuyasha turned to see Sango helping Miroku towards them and his eyes pained at seeing his friend in such pain. Last he had known, the two of them had been fine and he left them to take care of their own. Although he had known that Miroku's injury was bad, Sango and Miroku insisted that they stay and see this through to the end.
"Miroku!" Inuyasha yelled as he whacked a demon dead and ran towards the two. He stopped just in front of them and took Miroku's draped hand from Sango's back so he could support his friend. "Dammit Miroku! You're such a fool! Why didn't you tell me it was this bad?" he demanded, sensing Miroku's weariness.
Miroku could only smirk as he began to cough and wheeze in an effort to speak. "I'm fine, Inuyasha. Just tired from blood loss and fighting."
"Yeah, no shit," Inuyasha said, taking in his friend's pale appearance. Although Miroku's robes were tattered and he could smell Miroku's blood all over him, Inuyasha could tell that the shoulder injury was the worst of them. He then gazed up to Sango to see her worried face on her boyfriend, but other than minor scratches on her face and body, he could find no major injury on her.
Inutaisho made his way to the three and took in the kids' appearances. "Sango, Miroku, both of you are tired. We shall head back to the boats." Sango turned to see Inutaisho, taking in his appearance. Even Sesshomaru, who was still fighting the demons, had blood or tattered clothes. Everyone had blood or injuries somewhere and their clothes showed the evidence. This battle, both sides had shed blood but they would be the ones to be victorious.
"No."
Inutaisho looked towards his son, Inuyasha's golden eyes staring back at him in defiance.
"I'm not leaving until I find Kagome."
Inutaisho knew his son would say that, but the problem is, no one really knows where Raige and Kagome had gone. Therefore, Inuyasha would be searching endlessly to no avail. Kagome would have to find her way back from wherever Raige took her, which is what he was hoping for. Because Kagome would come back to them, he believed.
"Inuyasha… we do not know where Raige has taken her."
"Doesn't matter," Inuyasha said as he walked closer to his father with Miroku's weight hanging on to him. "I'm not leaving until I find Kagome. She has to be here somewhere on this island.""And how do you know this, Inuyasha?" Inutaisho asked, wanting Inuyasha to snap out of it and see that there is no way they can find Kagome. Her scent had just vanished into thin air, just like Raige's. And their auras were completely gone, leaving no traces of them behind to follow. They had simply disappeared without a trace.
"I don't know, but I'll find her somehow. I'm not leaving until I do." Inuyasha took Miroku's arm from around his shoulders and offered his friend to his father. He watched Inutaisho's contemplation as the elder demon didn't take Miroku's hand right away.
"Maybe…" Miroku said as he tried to hold himself up on his own. Sango was suddenly at his other side, helping him. "Kagome will find her way back. Inuyasha, she's the only one who can help herself at this point."
The Inu-hanyou turned his glare to his best friend and Miroku felt no harm in it. "It's up to Kagome now. Raige took her away so the two of them would be able to fight without us finding them… or interfering with their battle. And that's what they got."
"But it's been hours," Sango said, truly worrying about her friend this whole time. And now that they were finishing their battle here, Kagome still hasn't returned. And Sango could only think of the worse for her friend.
Inuyasha growled, irritated at everyone. Inutaisho, seeing this, reached out a hand and placed it on his son's shoulder, feeling the boy shake. Although Inuyasha might put up a strong façade, Inutaisho knew that inside Inuyasha was worried as Hell, just like the rest of them. And right now, everyone was wondering where Kagome must be and how to get her back.
"Inuyasha… you know that if I thought there was a way to find Kagome I wouldn't stop you from going to look for her." Inutaisho saw his son's ears twitch but Inuyasha's eyes were set to the ground now. Emotions were too high around them and decisions were being made that the Inu-hanyou couldn't help but agree with. "But Raige had taken her from us for one reason. Their battle is life or death. And if Kagome is still alive, then she will find her way back to us. For now… we can only pray."
Inuyasha frowned as he brought his eyes back to his father's. There he saw sadness and worry, but his father was right. He could find no traces of Kagome's aura or scent anywhere after she had vanished. And this whole time, nothing of her had come up, which meant that Raige had taken them somewhere far away. Wherever it was, Kagome would have to find her way back to him. She would find her way back to him. He needed her to come back.
"We must go," Sesshomaru said as he joined the group, blood dripping from his claws and the front of his haori soaked in his enemies' blood. The area was suddenly eerily quiet as Sesshomaru had finished the remaining fools who continued to fight them. "Miroku is injured and needs medical attention."
Inutaisho nodded his head in agreement and took his hand off Inuyasha's shoulder. "Let's head back to the boats." Inuyasha never said anything as he simply looked towards the sea where they would be heading back to Honshu.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
Midoriko dropped to her knees, white petals erupting around her in frenzy as they fluttered harmlessly to the ground to lay helplessly there at her knees. Tears streamed down her face as her hands remained on the ground in front of her as she gasped for breath.
The battle had ended. Raige was defeated. And yet with this happiness came sadness and tears. The white Jasmines around her had withered, so easily and quick, that the petals had fallen from their stems just as easily as Midoriko had lost strength in her legs.
'Kagome…'
Midoriko's tears fell to the ground, watering the Jasmines that refused to grow. Her beautiful Kagome. Midoriko had been watching the battle this whole time and now it has ended. But to what purpose did it do? What was it all for if her beautiful daughter…
The Jasmines refused to continue to live.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
It had been a while since the darkness was able to engulf the area. But now the light that had cleansed this area was now gone, leaving behind screams of pain and torment as the undead seemed to be on a vengeance for being disturb. Their cries echoed throughout the silent, dark abyss, curling screams that tore through one's soul. It was the screams that brought Kagome back from unconsciousness.
'It was a dream…'
She groaned as she tried to move her hands but found that pain shot through her body, out from her arms and down her spine. It hurt like Hell. Her whole body hurt like Hell, like a thousand needles were jabbing their way into her skin, deep into her tissues. Kagome squinted in pain and then opened her eyes again to gaze out at the darkness around her. It was complete darkness. She couldn't even see even if she tried to move her hand in front of her face. It was darkness. And it scared the living Hell out of her.
Nothing had moved her before but this emptiness, this darkness that was so unnatural to her, scared her like none other. With the sounds of the undead echoing around her, seeming right next to her ear and some farther away, she was terrified. And alone. There was no one else here with her. She had defeated Raige, the last enemy she had after Kano. She had completed her mission. She was finished.
A rippling scream erupted from around her, making her heart pound loudly in her chest as her adrenaline took over. Kagome suddenly had an urge to move, but as she tried again, she could barely move her hands to help push her off the ground. Her back seemed glued to the dirt beneath her, and her life would soon be over as the undead would indeed find her, and the jewel. It would all be over. Kagome accepted the fact, allowing it to wash over her soul so that she felt no remorse or regret, so that her soul would be free of regrets and pain. She was contempt with her life ending now, with the way she had lived her life, with the way she had left a better world for her family and friends. She tried, tried to get back to them, but there was no way that she could move. There was no way that she could even summon the strength to even figure out how to get back to the world of the living. She was stuck here, in the dark, alone, and she would find comfort with the jewel before the undead would devour her soul.
Suddenly, there was a small but warm light that she saw at the corner of her eye. Kagome turned her head to her left slowly to see the Shikon no Tama lying on the ground next to her as if it had rolled out of her hand. The small, beautiful jewel danced in pink and purple colors as it radiated a soft glow, warming her skin, trying to give her comfort.
'Shikon no Tama…' she thought with happiness, glad that she wasn't completely alone. The jewel offered her comfort in this place, and it was all she had left, all she always had left. The jewel never left her, when she needed it or not, it was always there for her. But now, the jewel couldn't save her from this place. From herself. Kagome was content in knowing that this was her end and she could tell that the jewel sensed it. Which is why it had reacted. It was acting on her emotions, as closely tied they were, and it knew that she had given up all hope to survive.
'Kagome…'
Kagome blinked, hearing her mother's voice as she stared at the jewel next to her. Her cheek lay against the dirt as she stared into the soft light. 'Mother….'
'Kagome, sweetheart. Why do you give up all hope?'
Kagome frowned, tears burning her eyes as she felt embarrassed and ashamed that her mother would see her like this. So pathetic. So defeated. 'I'm sorry, Mother. I can't move. I can't get back to my friends and family. And I'm so tired.'
Then, Kagome could feel her mother's arms wrap around her, like how they always did whenever Kagome needed her mother's embrace. 'My sweet Kagome… you have the jewel.'
Kagome kept gazing at the jewel as if it would tell her what to do, why her mother seemed so sure that the jewel was the answer.
'Kagome… you are the guardian of the Shikon no Tama, the most powerful entity in this world. You control the jewel as much as it controls you.'
Kagome tried to understand what her mother was saying, already knowing that they were connected since birth. The jewel was her and she was the jewel. Her life was for the jewel as much as it was for her. Suddenly, it dawned on her.
Midoriko's hands seemed to brush over Kagome's hair. 'Go home, Kagome. It is not your time.'
Tears fell from her eyes as Kagome realized what her mother was saying. 'But… the Fates…'
'Have no control over this matter. They are aware that if there is another option, you are able to take it. The jewel, Kagome, has chosen you. You have the power to do anything… the power of the Shikon no Tama. In this, the Fates cannot interfere.'
Kagome smiled, truly happy and content with this decision now. She was able to go back home. Now, strength poured through her body. The Fates would not try to destroy her future this time. They were willing to allow her another chance to live. And she would take it. Inuyasha. Kazuki. They needed her to return. She needed them.
Kagome outstretched her hand, forgetting about the pain that shot through her body and stabbed every nerve ending she felt she had. She suddenly had a strength she never had before. She wanted to get home. This darkness was driving her insane and she was scared beyond imagining.
"Shikon… no Tama…" she whispered, as she felt the jewel pulse once. But the pulse brought about a wave of bliss that shot through her body. Kagome took a moment to register that the jewel was healing her wounds. She was near the jewel, her fingers outstretched and the warmth of the jewel coursing through her fingertips, into her body. As her fingers settled over the jewel, a sudden light blinded her and her body was immediately heated. The heat felt so good within this darkness and Kagome closed her eyes as she smiled, grateful, her wounds being healed from the inside out. The Shikon no Tama was healing and protecting its guardian. Kagome was grateful that the Four Spirits would dedicate their lives for her, as much as she would for them.
The jewel pulsed, faster this time, in beat with her heartbeat. They were in sync again, and her body was healed of its wounds. But she was still tired and didn't know how to get back. As the jewel's light got brighter, Kagome looked up around her and fear shot through her.
The undead were crawling their way towards her, their bodies of grotesque skin and bones were crawling with maggots as they wiggled along the ground to get to her. She began to worry and she called on her sword. She could hear her sword flying towards her as a whooshing sound came nearer and she reached out when she saw the white blade. With her weapon in hand, she would try to fight off these demons. But she didn't know how long she would last. She was still very tired, even though the jewel was comforting and had healed her. She was tired and her muscles hurt, her spirit was damaged and used up, and her aura was diminishing. She needed to sleep, to heal, but now was not the time.
As Kagome tried to push herself up, the jewel pulsed, against the idea. 'Shikon no Tama?' At once the jewel shone brighter, until she had to shut her eyes from the brightness of it. And the undead were not happy. Their cries filled the air as they despised the bright light. Kagome could feel the jewel trying to get out of her grasp so she opened her hand, trusting the jewel to protect her. The jewel was comforting, it was trying to assure her that all would be well. So she believed it.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
There was a bright light as the group began to head towards the sea, heading back to where there was no more fighting. Inuyasha stopped in his tracks, as Miroku stopped as well, hanging onto his friend's strength. Everyone stopped and turned around to see a bright ball of light form over the carcasses of the demons behind them. Inuyasha took a step towards it, sensing Kagome but unable to see her figure in the softly glowing light. He squinted, trying hard to get a figure, and then he found her.
"Kagome!" he yelled, quickly looking at Miroku to see the boy's understanding. Inuyasha took Miroku's arm off his shoulders as Sango supported his weight and Inuyasha went bounding towards the ball of light.
"Kagome!"
The ball hovered high above the ground as Inuyasha stood underneath it, his eyes gazing worriedly into the light. He couldn't see anything and he was worried if Kagome was okay. The light remained high above him. He could jump up there to her, but he wasn't sure what would happen if he touched the light. So he waited, impatiently.
"Kagome!" Inuyasha yelled again.
The ball suddenly flashed a bright white light, making everyone squint their eyes at the intensity. And then just like that, the light disappeared. Inuyasha opened his eyes, gazing up to see Kagome's figure, floating in the air above him. There was a small ball of light right above her chest. The Shikon no Tama was floating, connected to the necklace that her Brothers had made for her from the pink diamonds found in Mount Fuji. The jewel shone in its elegance, soft pink and purple colors dancing within the jewel.
Inuyasha jumped up and grabbed Kagome's floating body, shocked at how light she was suspended in the air. As he took hold of her, Kagome's weight just dropped in his arms and the jewel's light went out. He cradled her against his chest gently as he glanced down at her peaceful face and was shocked to see Kagome had no scratches anywhere on her body. Her miko robes were in mint condition, no tears or dirt marks like before. No blood stains. He couldn't smell her blood at all, making him wonder if the jewel had healed her wounds.
As he fell back to the ground, Kagome began to open her eyes. Inuyasha smiled, relief shone clearly on his face.
"Kagome…" he whispered, glad to see she was alive and well and in his arms. A heavy weight was lifted off his chest now that she was safe with him.
When Inuyasha touched the ground, Kagome blinked a few times, gazing up at Inuyasha's face, trying to figure out where she was. She took in his long silver hair and golden eyes. Golden eyes that were filled with relief and love. She took in his dog ears and noticed his haori, blood stains everywhere.
"Inuyasha…" she said softly, her hand fluttering to his chest. She saw him flinch a little and knew that he was hiding the extent of his injuries. "You're hurt."
Inuyasha could only smile as he brought Kagome closer, breathing in the scent of her as he buried his nose in her neck. Her soft skin was a blessing and a haven after all the blood shed, pain and loss. It felt like he was lighter now.
"Inuyasha…" Kagome said softly into his hair as she brought her other hand up to wrap around his neck, hugging him to her. Her eyes burned, thankful to be alive, thankful to be in his arms, thankful to be with him. She loved him dearly. She missed him dearly. And he was here with her now. That was all she could ask for.
"Kagome… I was so worried."
"I know." She smiled into his hair, enjoying how soft the strands felt against her fingertips. She felt every breath that he took and loved the way his body moved, his skin stretching. For some reason she was enjoying every little thing about being alive, every move that he made and every breath that he took. She was so thankful to be given a second chance. She felt the jewel's warning and turned to look up as Inutaisho stood with a smile above her.
"Papa…" Kagome said softly.
Inutaisho was taken aback for a moment. To hear Kagome call him that while she was cradled in Inuyasha's arms with death all around them was a bit shocking. She was purity in this mass of death.
Inutaisho smiled, relieved that she was safe and back with them. "Kagome… it's good to see you are well."
"Kagome!" Sango and Miroku came up right behind Inutaisho. Kagome smiled up at them and then gasped, pushing out of Inuyasha's arms as she saw Miroku's wounds. His tattered clothes couldn't cover the wounds that his body received.
"Miroku!" Kagome said worriedly. Inuyasha frowned, but reluctantly let her go, standing up with Kagome as he watched her hurry to Miroku's side, looking worriedly at Sango for a split second.
Miroku smiled apologetically at Kagome as she placed her hand gently on his injured shoulder opposite of Sango. She didn't miss his wince. "Sorry Kagome. I just got caught off guard."
"Why are you apologizing?" Kagome said, her eyes moving over the wound. The bleeding had slowed, meaning he had lost a lot of blood, but the wound was bound in cloth so to help stop the bleeding. But she could tell by Miroku's aura that he was losing a lot of blood to be so weak and tired. Kagome took a calming breath and concentrated on Miroku's wound.
Miroku felt the shift in Kagome's aura and already knew what she was going to do. "Kagome…" he said, unsure if she was able to heal him. Especially after fighting Raige.
Kagome's eyes met his and she smiled. "You won't make it back to Honshu, Miroku." Sango held in her gasp as she tightened her hold on Miroku's opposite arm, making him turn his head towards her to smile reassuringly. Kagome then went back to her task, concentrating on Miroku's wound, focusing her aura to cleanse the wound first before she began healing the torn muscles and tissues.
Inuyasha watched, fascinated as to what Kagome could do. Right in front of his eyes she was healing Miroku's wound, something he had never witnessed before, not like this. This was something different. Kagome was given a gift. Such a beautiful gift. She could heal people, physically, spiritually, in every way. He was filled with so much love and pride for her, making him smile despite the bodies beneath his feet and all around them. Somehow, Kagome was able to make them forget about death and evil that permeated the island.
After the glow subsided from Kagome's fingertips over Miroku's major wound, she opened her eyes and gazed up at Miroku's smile. His face was less strained and in pain, and she could only smile back in joy at his relief.
"Thank you, Kagome," Miroku said, bowing his head ever so slightly, knowing who she was beneath the friendship that they had between them. She was his superior, a goddess compared to him, and he wanted to learn from her just like how the monks and priestesses from the Naiku Shrine would want to. Kagome was a rare gift for all of them. And she would remain with them.
Kagome smiled with acknowledgement in her eyes. "You're welcome, Miroku."
Inuyasha reached down for Kagome's hand, breaking the two friends out of their understanding, and she reached for the help as she got to her feet. Inuyasha brought Kagome against his chest and then looked to his father.
Inutaisho nodded his head and watched as Miroku got to his feet as well with Sango's help. "Let us leave this place."
"We have to survey the island first," Kagome said as she turned to face the group. "I will not leave the people here with these demons who threaten their safety."
After a few seconds, Inutaisho nodded his agreement. They would get rid of all of Raige's unfinished business, and then head home. There would be much to deal with when they got back anyways. For now, they would have a few more hours until daylight. A few more hours in this dream where all they knew was fighting and death. The group got situated and began to move out, the demons using their speed to get everyone to the next area of demons left on this island.
-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-'-
The sunlight spilled over the horizon of the sea, igniting the surface of the ocean into dazzling sparkles of light as the sea frolicked onto shore. Waves crashed here and there, a light tide already coming onto Honshu. The sound of the small waves hitting the sand was like a melody playing out for the people waiting along the shore. The beach, so early in the morning dawn, was littered with fishermen and fishing boats out in the sea. Their bobbing motions were the only enjoyable sight in front of the island ahead of them, still cloaked in dark clouds. A storm was approaching Shikoku Island, and the ominous clouds still loomed low over the island. But even though it was a natural event, the storm couldn't have come at a better time.
Koga frowned, his arms still crossed over his chest. He gazed out over the ocean, his eyes staying locked on the island with wonder and fear. He could only imagine what was happening on the island far ahead. And so much of him wanted to get back on one of those fishing boats in his view and head straight for that island. His friends were still there fighting the battle that he had agreed to help in. And what was he doing? He was standing here, his bare feet stuck in the sand as the water washed up to cool his feet, washing sand on top of them and further sinking him into the sand.
Behind him, Ayame remained sitting on a rock, one foot on the sand and one foot on the rock as she had her elbow resting on her knee and her head resting on her hand. Her eyes watched Koga's back with worry, but she knew that he was fighting a battle within himself that none of them could win. So she remained silent, tired, emotionally and physically. She felt like months had gone by but it was only hours, one night of pure killing and fighting that felt like years. She felt like she had grown old, no longer the 'civil' demon that she had been, mingling within the human world with other demons, living a 'normal' life. She felt like she had aged half a century and saw things that many young adults would not have wanted to see. But this she could say had happened to her before. About three years ago when Kagome had left them once. And now, Ayame felt a pain hit her chest as her eyes shifted to the island, her fear and concern for her friend overpowering her senses. She worried about Kagome, and if she would ever see her friend again. Not again.
Some of the fishermen were sitting on the sand, waiting for… something. Just waiting. They knew that their job here wasn't finished and they still had other friends back at Shikoku Island, waiting for the High Priestess Kagome to return safely. They all believed that she would rid the evil that was on that island, and though the heavy feeling of evil had left hours earlier, it was still clear that the battle wasn't over for the group had not returned yet.
As a wave crashed up on shore and submerged Koga's feet, he shifted, catching Ayame's eyes as she lifted her head from her hand. She noticed his full attention was out on the waters and so she looked out at the horizon.
A boat!
Koga moved towards the ocean's edge as the water followed him, his heart beating in anxiousness as the rest of the boats were returning. He could see their sails up high as they were making their way, slower than he would have liked, back to Honshu. He suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder and Koga turned his head to see Ayame's beautiful green eyes gazing up at him with happiness, though a small smile graced her lips.
"They're returning," she said. Her voice was laced with happiness but there was a fear that Ayame couldn't hide, and Koga knew that it was written in his eyes as well.
Koga nodded, his frown still pasted on his face, and brought his opposite hand up as he placed it over Ayame's, and he looked back out over the water. 'You better be alive Kagome. You better come back.'
As time passed by slowly, all Koga, Ayame and the fishermen could do was wait on shore as the fishing boats drifted closer. The sun had made its way higher above the sea, illuminating the sky with light and causing every organism to awaken. The earth was bursting with life again, as it should be.
Finally, the boats were close enough for the two to see and Koga and Ayame both looked out anxiously to find the faces' of their friends. Ayame gasped and moved a little more into the water in front of Koga, waving one hand in the air.
"Sango!" she yelled, hoping the girl could hear her. And Sango did as her friend waved back. Ayame could see that there were more tears on her friend's clothing, meaning they fought a lot more since she and Koga had left with Kikyo. This made her worry how bad everyone's injuries were. But she waited and kept looking, recognizing her friends' faces as the boats came closer.
Soon, it was easy for the demons to leap onto shore with some friends in hands. All the demons made their leaps and soon the beach was littered with demons and humans. Their torn armor and clothing were proof of the battles that they had been in. And their wounds were only the other half of it. But Ayame and Koga only had eyes on the one boat that held their friends.
Inuyasha took his jump and both Koga and Ayame couldn't miss the miko that was in his arms. As soon as Inuyasha landed in the water, Ayame was on Kagome, hugging the life out of the girl and tears running down her face.
"Kagome! Kagome! Kagome!" she exclaimed, over and over as if it would help to solidify Kagome's form in her arms. Kagome could only smile and giggle as she wrapped her arms around her friend and sent out her aura to soothe Ayame's worry and relief.
"Ayame… I hope you aren't seriously injured."
Ayame reeled back and glared at Kagome. "Don't give me that. You don't get to come back and start taking care of me." After all that Kagome must have gone through, and to still be here after this war with Raige, she was still thinking of others before herself. But from what Ayame could tell, Kagome had no injuries on her. Her miko robes were completely like brand new, well, besides all the demons' blood staining it. It was as if Kagome had completely healed.
Kagome just smiled and shrugged. "I'm fine, Ayame." Then, she turned and saw Koga's eyes gazing at her with an intensity that made her frown for a second. The two exchanged glances for a tense moment, and then she left Ayame's side and closed the gap between them.
Koga's arms were immediately around her and he buried his nose in her hair. She could feel his body shaking though she knew that he wasn't crying, not with Inuyasha around. "Kagome…" he said softly. Kagome smiled against his shoulder, tightening her hold on him. It was good to be home, good to be with her friends, in her friends' arms. She didn't know how much she would have missed this, missed him, missed everyone. She didn't know how much it would have meant to her until she would have lost them forever, again.
"Koga…" she said gently. The two of them let go of each other and smiled, glad to be back together again. Though no words were spoken, they understood how much it meant.
"My Lady…"
The four of them turned as Hira and her two priestesses walked towards them, their strides seemingly strong though their weariness could be seen. The priestesses' white robes were coated with black and red blood, from demons and their own. And Kagome knew that Hira would probably decline her blessings if she offered. Hira was not a follower of Kagome's, and so the priestess would head back to her home where she and her two followers would be able to heal. And live.
"Hira," Kagome acknowledged. The three priestesses stopped and as Hira bowed at the waist, so did the other two.
Hira came back up to her full height, holding her staff in one hand as she regarded the young woman. "It has been a pleasure, Lady Kagome, to have fought along side you in this war. I have witnessed your powers and I now know how fitting your name is for a priestess of your stature. You are worthy of the Shikon no Tama, and it is worthy of you."
Kagome could only smile at the woman's praise, knowing that it was all she was going to get. "And I thank you for your help in this. I know you do not believe in my beliefs, and in me, but I hope that you have had a change in heart." She had a sly smile as she watched Hira smile back.
"Indeed." That was all that was said as Hira's two priestesses took their last bow and Hira and Kagome shared one last-knowing glance. With their cool strides, they turned and headed off towards the boat that was waiting for them to take them back to Nanjo, to the Seifa-Utaki Shrine that they worshipped.
The group watched for a while as the three priestesses left their footprints in the sand and the waves simply washed it away. Then, Kagome turned and looked at the rest of her family and friends to make sure that everyone was indeed okay.
Her eyes fell upon the adults, taking in Sango's and Koga's parents as they remained at Inutaisho's side, the adults talking about their injuries. Inutaisho was making sure that they were in good health as they would head straight to the hospital so they all could get looked at.
Kagome went towards the small circle and she smiled at everyone as they met her kind gaze. "How are you all feeling?"
Ichiro and Kazuko, Koga's parents, both looked at Kagome and nodded their heads in respect at her request. "We are fine, Kagome. Our wounds are not serious."
"We'll be okay until we head to the hospital," Kazuko said, her eyes smiling despite her wounds. Kagome noticed that Ichiro's bone armor around his torso had more damage than Koga's one. His black kimono also bore many tears and blood marks, but she felt his strength and knew that he hadn't lost that much blood. Even Kazuko seemed fairly well as if Ichiro had taken care of his mate as they had fought.
Kagome nodded to the pair and then her eyes settled on Sango's parents. Hideaki was smiling at her, his kind eyes not showing how much pain he was in, but she knew that he bore a deep wound.
"I can take a look at your wound," she said, stepping forward. But Hideaki placed a hand up to stop her.
"I'm fine, Kagome. Amaya and I went to a village and sought aid. My shoulder is better now than it had been." Amaya turned to glance up at her husband's face and smiled, believing that he was truly getting better, but would be better once they went to the hospital for better aid and care.
"We're fine, Kagome," Amaya said as she turned back to look at the young girl. "I would have thought that you would look worse than you do," she said jokingly.
And Kagome could only smile and chuckle along with the woman. "I'm fine." As if on cue, her Brothers walked towards the group and Kagome's attention went straight to them.
The five Brothers were indeed bearing wounds as well. But Kagome's eyes fell on Monk Nobu and Monk Arata as their wounds were the gravest of the bunch.
"My Brothers," Kagome said as she made her way to the two Brothers' sides. Monk Nobu went to his knees with the help of Monk Kenshin, the Brother going to his knees as well. Kagome went down to Monk Nobu's side, her eyes fixing onto the Brother's numerous wounds as her hands traveled over them, taking in her Brother's aura as well. She fed his with her own, strengthening him, while cleansing and healing his wounds.
Monk Kiyoshi watched as Kagome healed their Brother and then looked to Inutaisho and his family. "We thank you for your aid, Inutaisho."
Inutaisho simply smiled and shook his head. "Kagome is our family. We protect our own." He stated it clearly and simply.
Monk Kiyoshi nodded his understanding and agreement, knew this from the first war they had fought together in against Kano. They fought to protect Kagome, and they would do it until their dying breath. Monk Kiyoshi smiled and turned his eyes back to Kagome now working on Monk Arata's wounds. He went to his Priestess' side and offered her his strength as she worked with the graver wounds that would surely kill their Brother.
Blinking back her concentration, Kagome smiled at Monk Arata's brown, kind eyes. "We need to take care of the rest of your wounds in the hospital."
Monk Arata simply nodded his head, thanking her through his aura and kind smile. Kagome rose to her feet as the two Brothers did the same with help from the other Brothers. She turned towards her family and friends and took in their blood-stained clothes and cuts and bruises. They were back, they were alive, and they had killed Raige and his followers. The world was a better place now, better now that the people would be safe from Raige's destruction and evil.
Kagome turned to see other people already starting their days out on the beach and she could only smile at the life that would be bursting here this morning. They were oblivious to what had just transpired over night, what could have happened had she and her family had not done something. But it was all over now, and the people doing their morning stroll along the beach were a sign that it was all over. She took in the fact that she was alive. She was alive.
Well I hope you liked it. Took me a while to get it out so I hope your excitement is back again for the continuation of the story. I'm hoping to finish it off in 3 more chapters but I don't know if I want to prolong it. I think a nice, short and sweet ending would be good but we'll see how I feel. Hopefully I don't get a writer's block again because summer is rolling in. But then again, I'll have lots of time to actually write. And for those of you who kept reviewing and PM'ing me to continue with the story, props to you for "kicking my butt back into gear". Anyways, tell me what you thought so I can have more motivation!
-Kaleialohalani
