Inuyasha and Kagome: Pirates
AnimExpert1981: Okay, my last chapter 14 got a macro virus so I cannot open that… Oh well! Okay, I'm going to postpone the story so that way I can explain the past of the Inu Gang in my story…
Sayuri: Wait, you're gonna write everyone's childhood or past? Why?
AnimExpert1981: Because even I'm curious…
Sayuri: You're the author!
AnimeExpert1981: Alright! You think you can do better?! Be my guest!
Sayuri: I'm your subconscious! I can do as much as you can!
AnimeExpert1981: -sweat drop- I knew that…
Disclaimer: InuYasha is Rumiko Takahashi's… Obsession is mine… I LOVE YOU RUMIKO TAKAHASHI!
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Pirates
Chapter Fourteen: Miroku's Story
As Miroku, Sango, and Kilala flew through the air, they passed a very old shrine. Only one monk was seen sweeping the grounds. Miroku instantly recognized the shrine and his memories hit him hard. He began remembering every bit of his childhood before meeting Captain Inuyasha.
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"Focus, Miroku," a man ordered. The young boy winced at the tone of his father. The man was training his son, Miroku, to be a monk. They were sitting right in front of the Buddha's statue meditating. The man was as still as a rock while Miroku couldn't help but fidget every few seconds.
"Forgive me, Otou-sama," the small boy, Miroku, replied. The man's eyes softened at his son.
"How about a break. You must finish your studies," said the man. Miroku nodded. Both stood up. The older man wrapped an arm around the small boy as they both headed out the room.
They walked down the thin pathway surrounded by grass and ponds. It was a sanctuary especially for a monk's training. Miroku was lucky enough to have his father at his side. He was said to be the most powerful there. And it seems Miroku inherited the same amount. Possibly even more.
"Miroku. There's something we must speak about," the older man said. Miroku looked up at his father face. It was stern staring ahead.
"What is it, Otou-sama?" Miroku asked. They looked at all the monks on the grass weaving something with an utmost concentration. Possibly weaving nets?
They arrived at a small spot and Miroku's father motioned for his son to sit. Miroku began to get worried. His father noticed, but said nothing.
"Father?" Miroku said.
"Tomorrow I will be going at dawn to a nearby village. I was asked to exercise a demon in the head chief's home," Miroku's father began. Miroku's mind began to contemplate what was the big deal. For a boy of five, he was bright. "Miroku, tell me what you know about our family's curse," his father asked softly. Miroku, still oblivious to his father's true intention, answered.
"My grandfather was tricked by a demon who was in the form of a beautiful maiden. Although he was powerful, beauty was his weakness. When the demon revealed himself, the battle between the two foes began. Whilst battling the demon, my grandfather was pierced though the hand creating the Wind Tunnel."
"The Wind Tunnel grows bigger as time passes, and eventually will over grow the victim's hand, eventually sucking the victim. This curse has been passed down from father to son, and thus to me. Prayer beads is what helps us control the wind tunnel," Miroku concluded. His father nodded in approval.
"Listen carefully. Do not confuse the beautiful music of the wind to another sound," his father said. Both father and son said nothing for a few moments. There, Miroku heard the sound of the wind and another sound. It seemed to also be wind, though it sounded violent and deadly.
"What is that father?" Miroku asked. The man looked down at his son.
"You are still young," his father said simply. He didn't want his son to know the full truth, yet. He wanted him to live his childhood with less of a burden.
"Does this have something to do with the Wind Tunnel?" Miroku asked. His worried eyes staring up at his father. His father was actually quite surprised at how quickly he came up with an answer. A bell chimed in the distance indicating it time for retiring to bed.
"Come, Miroku," his father said. They both stood up and headed towards the main sanctuary. It was a short walk, but not long either. The large doors to the sanctuary opened as all monks piled inside. They all went to their respective places and slept. Going to sleep early, but waking up early was becoming a habit to Miroku. In the distance, whispers could be heard.
"Please reconsider!" the voice sounded desperate and familiar. Miroku found out quickly that it was Master Mushin's voice.
"My son should not see something so horrible. If I am lucky, I will be out of sight when the time comes," Miroku's father said wisely. Mushin sighed.
"You are a stubborn man. I wonder if Miroku will turn to be like so," Mushin said. A small chuckle was heard.
"Promise me you will take care of him," the man asked. Miroku heard no response. He saw nothing either. He didn't even know where the two men were having their conversation. Miroku continued to ponder what that whole conversation was about. Was something going to happen to his father? Did his father truly lie to him about the exorcism that was going to happen at dawn? If so, why? 'Father…' was Miroku's last thought as his eyes drifted into the welcoming darkness of sleep.
The next morning, Miroku woke up earlier than anyone here. He was going to find out what was going to happen to his father. Miroku quickly changed into his robes and rushed out the door. There, by the shrine near the entrance, he saw his father and Master Mushin. He ran towards the two monks.
"Otou-sama!" Miroku cried as he waved his hands in the air. His father, from under his hat, looked up to see his son with surprised eyes. Why did he come? Miroku cried for his father once more. The boy's legs allowed him to arrive quickly to his father.
"Miroku, why are you up so early?" Master Mushin asked. Miroku began to contemplate for an answer. He couldn't tell his father and Master Mushin that he was eavesdropping. His father's eyes turned grim at the sight of his son. He had to quickly leave. He heard the wind tunnel in his right hand become louder by the moment.
"I must leave. Good-bye, Mushin. And stay safe, Miroku," his father said sadly. Miroku all of a sudden didn't want his father to leave. Why? He had no clue. But, he simply wanted to make sure his father stayed. Mushin simply nodded at his friend. Miroku continued to stare up at his father that he so deeply loved and cared for. Even if he is just a boy.
Miroku's father turned and began walking away. Miroku's eyes never leaving his back. His eyes turning sadder at each step. His father was only meters away when the prayer beads on his right hand burst. A loud, violent wind mixing with the gentle breeze.
"Otou-sama!" Miroku yelled. He was ready to go after his father when Mushin's arms wrapped around his small body. "Let me go, Mushin!" Miroku yelled.
"No, Miroku. Or you will get sucked in as well!" Mushin shouted over the wind. Miroku's father yelled as the Wind Tunnel began to devour his very being.
"Father!" Miroku yelled louder than the last. The adrenaline began to pump in his veins to help his father. He struggled more from Mushin's grip, but to no avail. His small body was no match for Mushin's larger body. He watched in terror as his father was sucked in. Mushin lowered his eyes down to the ground. Miroku was paralyzed. His eyes involuntarily glued to the man who was no more. Nothing was left but a large crater. Other monks began to surround the crater saying their prayers for their dear friend. Miroku did or said nothing. Though, there was a small anger beginning in the pit of his stomach for Mushin. Why did he restrain him! WHY!
"Father," Miroku said softly. His father screams didn't last very long.
"Miroku, I'm so sorry-," Miroku turned to look at Mushin. His small eyes were brimmed with tears. Mushin let out a sigh. "You're father wanted to leave without you having to see that." Miroku turned to stare back at the crater his father was in a few moments ago. Miroku began to slowly walk towards the crater. No thought other than his father in his mind. Mushin looked at all the monks and nodded to them to return to their jobs. The monks understood that the boy needed to take some time and left.
Miroku arrived at the edge of the crater and stared down into it. Miroku refused to let any tears fall. He simply stared. This wouldn't have happened if the Wind Tunnel curse never began. The demon. Who is the demon? Father said the demon would never go away until the demon that placed it, is dead. That moment, Miroku made that his life goal.
Kill the demon.
Miroku walked silently back to the sanctuary. His feet were making a small crunchy noise against the grass.
Dead.
Father.
The Wind Tunnel… He looked down at his right hand. He never really paid attention to it. He didn't want to. It reminded him of the short life he was going to have. Miroku frowned. His father was in his early thirties. That gives him… possibly twenty-five years left… He better enjoy them. But he will not satisfy himself other than with seeing others happy. Just as his father.
"Miroku, my boy! Come inside! You need to relax!" Mushin shouted from the distance. Miroku turned to look at where the voice came from. The happiness of others… Miroku put on his determined face. The happiness of his father. He never is… was… The demon that deprived the person he loved very much will pay for what he caused.
Dearly.
Miroku turned and ran after Master Mushin.
Miroku was sitting at Master Mushin's room. It was a bit larger. There were women dancing in the middle of the room and sake being served by them as well. Mushin was enjoying himself very much. You can hear it in his drunken laugh. Miroku, though, was too busy staring at the ground. He wasn't having very much fun. 'Father would never approve of this,' Miroku thought sadly. His eyes only saddened more at the thought. Mushin looked down at the small boy at his side. His eyes were blurry from all the sake, but he could make out the small frame of the boy.
"C'mon, Miroku my boy! Enjoy yourself! It's not everyday you see beautiful women and drink the best sake!" Mushin slurred. Miroku did nothing to say he heard him. He simply continued to stare at the ground. 'Father, would you want me to live a happy life?' Miroku turned to look at Master Mushin. The man looked like he was having the time of his life. He looked as if he had no regrets (Miroku doesn't seem to know what being drunk is…). Miroku eyed the cup of sake. 'Happiness? With Sake and women?' Miroku thought. His father would never-
Miroku grabbed the cup of sake and drank the liquid whole. Miroku gagged at the burning liquid in his throat. All of a sudden he felt, strange. He felt, like he had no idea what he was doing. He couldn't control his emotions. Mushin saw the small boy drink the sake.
"There you go, my boy! Enjoy!" Mushin said with a small slur in his voice. The sake still burned in his throat. His head was starting to spin. He looked up at the dancing geisha in the middle of the room. Master Mushin seemed to really be enjoying them, but he didn't. What's the big deal? They're women. His mom is a female… He simply continued staring. That is, before his world turned black.
Miroku woke up. His head was pounding and he felt like wanting to empty his stomach. How more stupid and naughty can he be? Miroku let out a deep sigh hoping it could calm his pounding head.
It didn't.
"I see your up," Mushin said. Miroku faced towards the voice. There, Mushin stood at the door. He noticed the bottle in his hands. Miroku always noticed it. His father said he had "problems". Miroku always dismissed it. Mushin swung the bottle and drank. A large gulp was heard. Miroku simply stared at the monk. Miroku stared down at his hands. Mostly his right hand, where the Wind Tunnel was.
"Is it true?" Miroku asked quietly. Mushin stared at the boy. The question obviously took him by surprise. But, he knew what the small boy was talking about.
Mushin said nothing for a moment trying to contemplate what to say. He simply nodded with a small grunt. Miroku, from the corner of his eye, saw the older monk's response. He simply let out a small sigh. His father must be really happy right now… He doesn't need to worry about the Wind Tunnel.
"Hurry. Classes will begin shortly," Mushin said or slurred. Miroku looked up then he remembered. This is the day of his birth. His sixth birthday. Miroku literally shook his head wildly to make his thoughts disappear. It worked. Mushin said nothing. What was he gonna say? He's drunk!
In a few seconds, Miroku was in his robes. He walked to where his classes were.
They were taught on how the world is supposed to be peaceful. 'But it isn't' Miroku added bitterly in his mind. A day of classes and concentration can really get a lot out of you.
5 Years Later…
11 years old. Miroku walked to his chambers. His mind finally came at ease of his father's death. The once unnoticeable hole in his hand was growing each year. Miroku learned his limits. And one day, he would suffer the same fate as his father. He didn't want to.
Miroku finished his studies earlier than anyone. The year before, he became an official monk. Miroku, though, decided he wanted to be a traveling monk. If he traveled, he might find the demon that started the Wind Tunnel. Him and Mushin moved to a small shrine in the woods. Just the two of them where they could do many… many things.
Mushin burst through the door, "Miroku! Come, we are having a party!" Mushin bellowed. Miroku turned to his older friend. They stared at each other.
Party.
Sake.
Women…
"Mushin, you dirty monk," Miroku said slyly. Mushin's crooked smile showed on his face.
"They're waiting," Mushin replied. An evil glint in his eye. Miroku walked to Mushin as they walked to where the party was. Miroku's once innocent mind, no more. He couldn't help it!
Miroku and Mushin laughed at nothing. Their cups filled with sake dripping all over the floor. Miroku and Mushin hiccuped. This was the life… Geishas danced around beautifully and gracefully.
Miroku woke up the next morning. His head pounding. He groaned at the pain and held his head within his hands. When he felt the pressure on his right hand, he winced. It hurt, a lot. Miroku groggily stood up. He walked towards Mushin's chambers. He might know why Miroku's hand hurts so much. As Miroku stood and the wind from the outside entered his lungs, his head hurt less and less.
Miroku walked in and saw the old monk on the floor. His bottle of sake held tightly in his grip. He obviously wasn't gonna let it go any soon.
"Master Mushin," Miroku said softly shaking the monk. Mushin snored loudly scratching his nose. Miroku called him a few more times until he had enough. Miroku grabbed Mushin's shoulders and shook him violently. "Wake up, you drunk monk!" Miroku yelled. Mushin stirred then groggily sat up.
"What is it, boy," Mushin slurred. Miroku showed him the hand where his Wind Tunnel was.
"My hand started hurting all of a sudden," Miroku replied. When Miroku was younger, Mushin made him promise to always come to him first when something was strange. Mushin stared at it. He grabbed the hand and studied it. Mushin took off the beads knowing the tunnel was still too small to suck anything in. When he removed the beads, he saw the large gaping whole. Thank goodness Mushin was fat.
"It's growing. It grows with you, Miroku. You're probably entering manhood," Mushin said sobering slightly. Miroku snatched his hand away and stared at the monk as if he grew two heads. Mushin scratched his chin. "Oh yes. I haven't had this talk with you, yet." Miroku continued staring. By now, Mushin was pretty sober. "Now listen because I'm only going to repeat anything," Mushin said. Miroku nodded. Though something was telling him to run.
The traumatized Miroku walked through the hallways and slid open the door into his room. He wanted to sleep and forget everything Mushin told him.
"Stupid Mushin. There are ways to say things. No one tells something like that so bluntly," Miroku mumbled as he fell asleep.
The Next Day…
"Someone please help me! Please!" a man's cries filled the shrine. Miroku woke up instantly. The sun was barely out. Miroku threw on his robes and ran towards the voice. There he saw a man running frantically around. Miroku ran to the man. "Oh dear monk. Please help my village!"
"Please calm yourself," Miroku said calmly. The man took a deep breath. Miroku tried to hold the man steady. There, Mushin appeared.
"M-My v-v-village! There's a d-d-demon a-a-and he ate my m-mother-in-law," the villager stuttered. Miroku furrowed his eyebrows.
"Very well. I will help you," Miroku said seriously.
"Oh, t-t-thank you!" the man said.
"I will be back soon," Miroku told Mushin. Mushin nodded. Miroku ran with the man back to the village. Luckily, the village wasn't even a mile away.
At the Village…
The demon roared. His six arms wailing around. He began looking for more terrified humans. He saw a small human. A little boy. The demon walked towards him. The boy saw the demon coming at him and panicked. He pushed himself to run faster. Alas, his small feet were no match for the demon's large ones. With one of his arms, he picked up the screaming boy.
Before the demon was able to place the boy in his mouth he felt a stinging sensation. The pain grew and he screamed releasing the small boy. The boy landed on his arm. He probably broke it. The burning sensation turned out to be a sacred sutra that burned the demon within seconds.
The small boy began crying and clutching his arm. Miroku was quite impresses at himself for destroying a demon so easily for his first time. Miroku ran to the boy and gingerly picked him up. His right arm became a dark purple indicating the broken bone.
"My son!" the man yelled. He ran to the Miroku and the small boy. He gingerly took the boy from Miroku's arms and cradled him against his chest. Miroku smiled at the father and son moment. He also refused to let his emotions show. The villagers came out from their hiding places and bowed respectfully to Miroku. The man also stood with his son still in his arms. A woman ran out from the crowd, probably the mother of the boy, and took him from his father's arms. The man bowed. "Thank you, young monk, for saving us."
Miroku nodded.
"Please," an old woman began saying. "Let us treat you this night for your service." Miroku was about to reject the offer when Mushin interjected. Miroku let out a small yell when the monk seemed to appear out of nowhere.
"Actually, my old bones aren't what they used to be. A night of rest would be very kind of you," Mushin said. Miroku stared at the older monk. The old woman smiled.
"Master Mushin, why take advantage of this when I cane easily carry you up the mountain?" Miroku asked quietly as they walked to the old woman's house.
"Not a man yet, aren't you Miroku?" Miroku blushed at that. "You know when someone invites another, especially their hero, they'll do anything to make them feel welcome. A few women and some sake sounds good doesn't it?" Mushin explained. Miroku caught Mushin's drift and slyly smiled.
"Mushin, you sly monk," Miroku said with a smirk. Mushin bellowed.
"Miroku, my boy, you will one day learn to think as a real man does!" Mushin said with a small laugh.
Miroku held the cup in the air. It took a lot to get him… not sober. Geishas were dancing in center of the room. The head of the village offered a place for the night, and the entertainment. Tonight, he would sleep well.
3 Years Later…
He mumbled a chant under his breath. Without any trouble, the demon before him burnt in spiritual power as his screams died down. Miroku smiled down at the ashes of the demon. He's getting good.
Miroku, a year ago, started his work as a traveling monk all over Japan. There wasn't a day without a demon. Miroku vanquished them all. Whenever a real challenge came by, he used his Wind Tunnel. The black hole grew every year. Especially when he hit his "special" growth. For a fourteen-year-old, Miroku was exceptionally tall. He towered over most men. Demons were a different story.
As Miroku wondered, he found himself on the shore. The crystal blue seas filled his vision. It was absolutely breath taking. Though, he may never be able to enjoy such beauty. He looked down at his right hand then up to the sky. 'Father? Is this what you were trying to stop? Did you lie about your exorcism so you can destroy the demon that inflicted this curse?' Miroku thought. But, he finally knew the identity of the demon.
Naraku.
He will die as easily as squashing a spider. There are a few things Miroku is worried about though. Mushin said he is a shape-shifter. Miroku is worried he may fall into a trap.
Miroku continued to stare into the blue ocean. Oh, how he loved it. The color of the sea reflects his eyes. Crystal clear blue. You can see everything underneath it. He heard about the pirates finally making themselves known. Why? Because of the Shikon No Tama. Though, it is said only the Legendary Miko can track it. Pirates are searching for the jewel and the girl… Miroku concluded that the Jewel would be a great help for killing Naraku.
Miroku stopped staring at the ocean and began making his way to the market. He is very hungry. Especially for a growing boy.
Miroku quickly found a small village. It was completely barren. Very few people were seen. Miroku walked through the streets and made his way to a small stand. He walked over to it. Inside was an old man. Miroku smiled at the man and gave his order. The old man smiled back. Miroku took his order and sat on the bench against the stand. His sun hat hiding his full face from view. He quickly ate his rice, dumplings, and tea. Miroku put the dishes back on the stand. The man took them and bowed. Miroku tilted his hat as recognition and began walking away.
Miroku heard something in the distant. It was a scream. Miroku walked faster. Now he can clearly hear the desperate screams of a woman.
"HELP!"
Miroku immediately began to run. He was faster than a regular human. And thanks to that, he quickly arrived at the scene. On the ground he saw a woman clutching a small boy underneath her as a demon towered over them. The demon was absolutely repulsive. The demon cried out as he raised his fist ready to strike. Miroku, from his robes, took out sutras.
"Sacred Sutras!" Miroku cried out. With perfect aim, the sutras stuck onto the demon making him cry out in anguish. The sutras burned in a bright, blue flame taking the demon with it. Not even ashes were left. The woman stood with the small boy and both bowed deeply.
"Arigatou gozaimasu," both said.
The woman looked up, "Thank you for saving my son and I." Miroku smiled and nodded.
"You're very welcome," Miroku replied. The woman looked down at her son expectantly. Her son quickly got the message. He bowed once more.
"T-Thank you," the small boy stammered. Miroku again smiled. He tipped his hat and began making his way through the thick trees. He walked slower to make sure the woman and her son would make it out safely.
Miroku found himself by a small town near a port. A lot more people were here. He again walked through the streets. All women and men wore these strange clothing. He, of course, knew about it. But Miroku lived deeper in the country so it was taking a bit of time for people to get there.
As we walked, he noticed there were a lot of demons. Miroku went into full monk mode. Ready to kill. But, no demon came at him.
None.
Miroku decided to do nothing back. Everyone seemed drunk. Men were waving pistols around and Miroku saw something new. He didn't know if it was good -for him- or bad. He saw women… making themselves so comfortable around the men. Men were even touching them inappropriately in public. In a way he felt turned on, another part of him was screaming at them to stop. As he stared, a woman turned to look at him. His breath hitched in his throat. Her eyes were lifeless. Nothing was seen in them.
Nothing.
She seemed as though her soul was taken from her body. She was nothing but a corpse. She is a beautiful woman… but he felt bad for her. He decided to look away. He was fourteen… What could he do? Sit and stare. That's what.
Miroku looked up. The sun has been set for some time. The sky was beginning to reveal its stars. A man walked ahead of him. All the demons made way for him. Why? He had no clue. Some demons even glared at him and made no move. Miroku only saw a blur when the demon ended up on the ground bleeding. Claw marks the width of his staff on their bodies. Miroku fell back a few steps. But, he noticed this man had quite an aura.
A demon…
Miroku continued walking as if he never noticed him. But, he felt the eyes of someone that bore in his back. A small shiver ran up his spine. He forced himself not to look back.
And he never did.
That night Miroku found himself at the shore. He stared into the water, which showed no reflection. It was the new moon. He was a bit sad that he couldn't see the beautiful reflection of the full moon through the waves. The tide came in. At first Miroku made no movement and let the ocean water reach his toes. When he finally was roused from his thoughts, he took a few steps back. The waves rolled in, one by one – one after another.
Miroku stood there for a few more seconds, his thoughts taking control of him when his eyes began to droop. 'Time for my rest,' Miroku thought. Miroku walked away from the shore and made his way to an inn.
Miroku entered the inn where a woman and a man sat in the middle of the room.
"May we help you, young monk?" the woman asked sweetly. Miroku had to think of something fast. Master Mushin said people are always grateful and give you a free reward if you save them from something evil.
"Remember, Miroku, if you save someone and for their gratitude offer you a reward, take advantage of it!"
Yup, those were his exact words.
"Yes, I couldn't help but notice the large demonic aura surrounding this inn," Miroku started.
The old woman gasped, "Demonic aura?"
The man frowned, "That's impossible!"
"Relax, me friends, that I why I have come. I will gladly offer my services in exchange for a place to stay for the night," Miroku said. The woman's face brightened, but the man still was frowning. After a few moments, the man's face relaxed.
"Please, do what you must," the old man said. In Miroku's mind, he was doing a happy dance. His plan worked! Miroku nodded and stepped outside. He took out one of his sacred sutras and placed it on the side of the door. He clapped once and mumbled a small prayer under his breath.
"There you go! No demon shall pass through!" Miroku said. The owners stared at him. That's it?
"V-V-Very well. A deal is a deal. Muzai, show him to his room," the man said. He was still clearly confused. The old woman, Muzai, stood from her place and began walking deeper into the inn.
"Here is your room, young monk. Breakfast will be brought to you in the morning," Muzai said. Miroku nodded and smiled. He quickly readied himself for bed and fell asleep with ease.
The next morning, Miroku awoke with a knock at the door. He opened his eyes. Muzai opened the sliding door and placed the breakfast near the door. She bowed traditionally and closed the door after her.
Miroku ate and dressed back into his main clothes. He walked out the inn with a small "thanks" on the way out. The sun wasn't out yet.
Miroku found it creepy walking in the main streets. It was dark and cold. Instead he walked by the port where many people were found and the sun shone through. He came across two paths. He held his staff perfectly straight and let it drop. It fell towards the right. Towards the small village with nothing but a few huts… Before Miroku could pick it up, two men came walking. They were walking towards the left where a small city was.
"Did you hear of the talented woman at Central Square? They say she dances with such passion," one man said. With his foot, Miroku turned the staff left. Talented women dancing? That must mean she's very beautiful.
Miroku found himself at Central Square where a large woman danced. Yes, she was good with her body, but not good with her look. Miroku's eyebrow witched.
"I walked two miles for this. That is why one must stick to the staff," Miroku mumbled. He walked against the rail of the port where he saw the same man from yesterday. He seemed alert and at the same time dreamy-eyed.
"I promise," the man said. Miroku swore he heard the man say something. But his human ears couldn't catch anything. Then he caught the faint, "Naraku."
Miroku looked back. What could this mean? The cogs in his head turned as he tried to come up with a reason why he would say that name. Then it came to him…
Miroku couldn't believe it. Someone else had the same goal as him! Miroku wasted no time in walking towards the man. The man walked towards the dock where a large ship was floating.
"Wait!" Miroku called out to the man. The man didn't look back. Miroku called out once more and the man finally turned to see him.
"What, kid," the man said gruffly.
"Did I hear you were after the demon Naraku?" Miroku's not yet changed voice asked. The man glared at Miroku.
"Who do you think you are getting into other people's business?" the man shouted. He looked as if he wanted to bit Miroku's head off.
"G-G-Gomen! I just have the same goal and I was wondering if I could be of service," Miroku stammered.
"Go away, kid. You're too young to be a crewman," the man said. He turned and began walking away. Miroku ran after him.
"No please! I can help! I have a few leads on his whereabouts!" Miroku shouted. The man stopped abruptly. The sun was ready to rise.
"Deal! Get on the ship. The captain will decide if you're good enough," the man said. He wasted no time in running to the ship. Miroku stared a moment longer. He finally found an ally on finding Naraku! Miroku began dancing happily in his head. He walked to the ship.
The sun has officially risen.
"Alright! Man the ropes! Set free the sails! Man at the wheel! I want us out of here," the captain turned and looked at the port. Four men in blue were charging at them. Four can't challenge a pirate. A report to the captain of the navy will not be as easy… "Fast!"
The minute Miroku stepped on the wooden boards of the ship, he felt a lot of demonic aura. Men rushed to their posts doing exactly as they were told. Miroku had no choice but to hide in the deepest corner of the ship. Pirates were so mean. Even a boy who seemed to be his age had a problem. Men were shoving, saying words Miroku never even heard before. Miroku must stay on guard for the demon.
Though, they were already floating on the water before Miroku even knew it. He'll give them credit for that… He heard footsteps.
"So you're the monk," Miroku looked up. The man seemed awfully young to be a captain. What really caught his gaze was the long, silver hair.
Demon.
He is on a pirate ship filled with demons. Miroku looked around. The men all seemed human. The captain seemed to have read his thoughts.
"I'm the only demon," the man said abruptly. Miroku stopped staring and stood up from his spot.
"I heard from one of your crewmen that you're after Naraku," Miroku started. If the man was thinking, he didn't know. The man had stone features, and not just physically. His amber eyes held nothing in them. Just a cold feel to them. But if Miroku wanted this guy to take him - a fourteen-year-old - seriously, he's going to have to stare into those amber depths.
"What of it?" the man said finally. Though, he sounded annoyed. Already? Miroku nodded despite his thoughts.
"Well, sir, it just seems I have the same goal and an ally would be a very helpful," Miroku said. Miroku, though, didn't really like companions. He liked doing things on his own. But this demon didn't seem weak. This, he noticed, the minute he stepped on this ship.
"Listen, kid. A boy like you will be more than enough help by swapping the deck," the man said. Miroku frowned at that. The man turned and began walking away.
"I do have a clue where Naraku is," Miroku whispered quickly. The man suddenly stopped. Miroku had no idea how he could hear him. He whispered. Miroku looked at the man for ears.
None.
The captain's long strides arrived and stood chest to chest with Miroku. He grabbed Miroku by his robes and held him up in the air.
"What do you know?" the captain growled. Miroku held up his hands in defense. Now he got him.
"Now what goo will I be? I'm only good enough by just swapping the decks," Miroku said in a matter-of-fact tone. The captain growled. Miroku wasn't really afraid anymore. The captain seemed like an aggressive puppy…
The captain pulled the boy closer. One thing Miroku found offending was the crewmen seemed like they didn't notice, but Miroku could see the smirks on their dirty faces.
"Listen, kid. I'm not gonna play this game. If you don't tell me what you know, I'll swap the deck with your face," the captain growled. Miroku gulped.
"Alright, alright. I'll tell you only because you seem like a very kind man," Miroku said sarcastically. The captain growled again. "A-All I know is that he's a shape-shifter."
The captain said nothing for a second before speaking again, "What shape is he? What shape is he now?"
"Calm yourself. If I would've know, I would have slain him myself a long time ago," Miroku replied. Yep, he had no idea how the demon would take him seriously with his squeaky voice.
"Then you're no good," the captain said releasing him roughly. Miroku dropped to the ground.
"I may not be useful for information, but I am useful in battle. I have been cursed with the Wind Tunnel in my right hand. Not only is it my curse and end, but it is my weapon that can suck up a whole village if I so please," Miroku said. The man seemed to contemplating the current situation. He stood there staring down at Miroku with his menacing glare.
Miroku sensed the man's aura. Miroku is barely considered a young man. This aura. This strength can be helpful.
"I'm strong enough. I don't need anyone else," the captain said. Miroku not only got mad at the comment, but at his ego.
"You don't understand! I've been traveling for what seemed a long time. I've been told I am still considered a child. And more importantly, I have someone to avenge! Of course you don't understand," Miroku hissed. He didn't like losing his temper, but he needed help and he will gladly admit it.
The captain's eyes flared. He looked as if he could bit Miroku's head off. Miroku stood his ground though. 'Don't understand someone's need to avenge someone, huh?' The man thought. Despite his flaming outer appearance… 'Kikyo…'
"Name?" the captain asked. Miroku blinked in bewilderment at first.
"Miroku," Miroku replied even more confused.
"Welcome to the crew, Miroku," the captain said. Miroku couldn't believe it! He's a pirate! Wait, this goes completely against his work as a monk. "And get rid of those priest clothes."
Miroku waited a few seconds to let everything sink in. What did he just get himself into? Then he snapped out of his daze. Priest clothes?
"I'm a monk not a priest!" Miroku shouted after him. Miroku walked to the edge of the ship. He's a pirate. He now has a chance at killing him.
Naraku.
He looked at the ocean blue. Breathless. The scene left Miroku breathless. Something told him that this is just how it's supposed to be.
1 Year Later…
"Hurry it up, Miroku!" a voice yelled. Miroku ran faster. Who knew plundering could be so much fun. Another cannon hit the side of the ship. Miroku lost his balance for a second, but continued to run. The captain was way ahead of him. Then again, he is a demon.
Miroku jumped over a fallen barrel. The sack on his back bounced against him. The captain had the same one. Miroku punched himself.
Another cannon.
Who cares about this ship? It's the enemy's. This was Miroku first time doing the plundering. They were putting up a fight above so the crew had no choice to fight back and let someone else get the plunder.
Miroku imagined himself doing this in his robes. He imagined himself, still up to this day, wandering with hardly any leads to Naraku. When he joined the Seas Hellish Plague, they collected at least an eight of the Shikon no Tama. And it was all thanks to their captain.
Later that day, Miroku stared into the sky. It was a moonless night. In a few hours, it would be a year anniversary of his first time meeting the captain and joining the Seas Hellish Plague. The man he met that morning was never seen. Miroku always noticed the captain was also always missing these nights every month. With these small thoughts, Miroku began thinking. The captain and that man looked an awful lot similar. Despite the physical difference, Miroku noticed the same thing in their eyes-
Internal conflict…
He noticed that. As if he had a war going inside his mind. Their… He heard a long time ago from Master Mushin about half-demons. Though, it was a bit fuzzy considering how long ago it was…
Half-demons always have internal conflict because of the demon and human blood in their bodies. They also transform on the same night they were born… The captain was never seen every moonless night. The man from the docks that morning could be the captain…
See…
Miroku's not that stupid…
The next morning, Miroku saw the captain steering the wheel. It's now or never. Miroku walked up the steps. Miroku jogged slightly up the steps to the deck and stood near, yet far enough, from the captain. His silver hair blowing through the wind, his amber eyes seemed to be able to look beyond than anything.
In the small time Miroku was with this crew, he was already a quartermaster. He didn't want to lose his position for a question. Miroku began to doubt himself.
"You gonna stand there all day, or are you gonna ask your question?" the captain said roughly. Miroku didn't mind his rough tone. In fact, he was used to it. He became quite fast friends with the captain.
"Captain… I don't mean to offend you, but… I've been thinking…" Miroku couldn't do it. He couldn't bring himself to ask the question…
The captain wasn't stupid at all either. He had an idea of what Miroku was going to ask. He knew it would happen sooner or later. Though, the captain didn't want to share his precious secret either. And he has so far has only known Miroku for one year. But, the captain trusted his gut and this kid proved trustworthy.
The crewmen were in the deck below so Miroku had nothing to worry about. They were far from earshot. Plus, all the crewmen were yelling so it's okay… Right?
Miroku decided to break it softly.
"You're not exactly a full demon, are you Captain?" Miroku asked. Th captain said nothing for a while. A crewman came walking up the steps.
"Take the wheel," the captain said. The crewman nodded and did as he was told. He turned to Miroku and began walking into his cabin. It was only a few steps away. The captain closed the door behind him.
The captain stood near the door. Miroku simply stood there.
"Your point?" the captain replied. Miroku stood there. Does this mean…
"So am I right, captain? You aren't a full demon?" Miroku asked hesitantly. The captain gave a small nod. Okay, the captain just told him his biggest secret. Miroku smiled at that.
"Miroku, I swear if you tell anyone, I will see you to Davy Jones Locker," the captain threatened. Miroku held up his hands defensively.
"I will carry your secret to Davy Jones Locker," Miroku said.
"Keh! You better," the captain said. Miroku smiled again.
The captain trusts him…
Captain Inuyasha earned a true friend…
-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-
AnimeExpert1981: Jeez… This was a long chapter… How about it, Sayuri?
Sayuri: My head hurts with all the words… -groans-
AnimeExpert1981: Oh come on! It's only 15 or 16 pages!
Sayuri: -growls- That's a lot!
AnimeExpert1981: Yeah, Yeah, Okay…
Next Chapter: Sango's Story