If this update is late it's because I've been adulting or reading Johnlock/Merthur fics
I changed it from Kikyo going on a date like the OG manga and anime, to Kikyo rejecting Kagewaki due to her feelings for and relationship with InuYasha
However, I do plan on making a love triangle with Kikyo/Kouga/InuYasha as well as bringing kagome into the mix
I appreciate your patience
Royakan curled up in a ball timidly, whimpering fearfully as the memories of the monk swallowing his familiars into his empty wind tunnel, he had come to attack InuYasha and instead been met by supernatural forces stronger than himself. There was no way he could continue with this mission, he needed to preserve his life. Why was Naraku so obsessed with them? What was it about them that made him wish for their demise? He had been content living in peace. He had no rivalry with the DaiYokai half breed, the village or the monk.
"Royakan" Naraku called, why was he cowering in his cave instead of fighting InuYasha? Why would a demon like himself cower away in his cave with his tail between his legs? Why would he hide away like this so shamefully? He had given him orders which he was now evading.
"I refuse!" Royakan protested fiercely, he wouldn't endanger himself again, he wasn't going to throw himself in harms way blindly. He had a home in the forest and he wished to stay there.
Naraku frowned, he could smell the fear radiating from the panther demon, what a coward. He was supposed to be a demon and yet he was shivering in fear due to the power of a monk, a mere human. He was so easy to manipulate, so easy to control, he had no spine, he had no drive. He was a demon and yet he had no instinct. He evaded humans and much as he did demons. "You're trembling" Naraku stated mockingly
Royakan swallowed, why couldn't Naraku just leave him in peace and enact his vengeance on his own? He had no desire to get close to this demon. "I… If I go back, I would merely be consumed by that monks wind tunnel, my life means more than whatever schemes you have in mind" he protested. He'd never met such a terrifying power, he'd never seen something so frightening. An empty chasm of pure power that would obliterate him in seconds. Naraku smirked, so fear was his issue? Why didn't he just say so? So long as fear blinded him, made him rational, made him a coward he was of no use to him. Naraku revealed a jewel shard, gleaming brightly in the darkness of the cave, showing it to Royakan. Royakan paled, he had already been possessed by one shard of the jewel, now he was going to force another onto his being? He had no need for the power of the shards, they meant nothing to him, they had no use for him. He would rather avoid them altogether, to avoid being corrupt. He whimpered fearfully "No… I have no need for your schemes, leave me in peace!" he protested.
Naraku embedded the shard into Royakan's forehead, piercing fur and flesh as the jewel was forced into his head, smirking in amusement as he did so. Though he couldn't appreciate the power he was being bestowed with, he would soon see the effects for himself. Royakan whimpered in pain, fighting against it as he ran from the cave, escaping the cave as he fought against Naraku's wrath, fighting against the evil corrupting his free will. Rushing through woodlands, trees and more forest in order to escape, ripping at his head in protest to dislodge the jewel. Naraku merely watched in amusement, disappearing as his malicious laugher echoed in the panther demons ears. He could attempt to fight against the jewels power but it would be futile, he need merely only accept his fate. Royokan cried in pain, howls and whimpers escaping his jaws as he felt his body grow, his body stretching, arching and increasing in mass. His bones, muscles, claws and features warping, his appearance growing more wolflike and demonic. Forming into the appearance of an ordinary wolf, his once blue eyes forming into reddened orbs, his proportions matching his new body. Naraku observed from the shadows, smirking with pride at his new schemes, his tool still had more uses and soon he would be rid of InuYasha.
Miroku and Souta sat silently outside of the hut patiently, the day was dragging on, InuYasha was still weak and Naraku was still out there. They had no perception of when this would be over. "Gomen, I lack the spiritual essence of my lineage so I cannot be of assistance to you. I am deeply regretful that you must shoulder this burden yourself" Souta apologised. If he had the same training as his grandfather, if he had inherited any of his gifts he could be of use to him. If he had any potential as a priest or monk himself he could have been of use. But instead he was a mere ordinary human without any gifts. Miroku had been guarding the hut in which InuYasha was protected within, using a barrier. Shielding the stubborn half breed from himself and other outside dangers that may attack them. Souta had been keeping him company, providing food and sustenance to keep his strength up. Focusing on forming a barrier for such an extended period of time would do them no good, it would drain Miroku quickly.
Miroku smiled wearily, he was the only one of them now who retained any spiritual power to ward off demons, without the company of Lady Kikyo or her sister, the responsibility was left to him. Souta was a good leader, after the death of his family he had helped protect the village as he got older, he survived and adapted. What he lacked in being a priest or a monk, he made up for in other ways. "It's not your fault you didn't inherit the powers of your late grandfather or sister lord Souta, you have admirably protected this village regardless" he praised. Many people of the village admired and respected him, he was a mentor to many.
Souta smiled weakly, at a time like this they needed someone stronger to ward off demons. Miroku couldn't handle this all himself, he needed support and assistance. "If only InuYasha hadn't sent away Lady Kikyo or her sister, she would be able to protect him" he sighed. Kikyo was the one person he trusted above all, he confided in her, he loved her. With Kikyo by his side she brought out the best in him and helped him mature. Miroku chuckled in amusement, InuYasha's trauma had it hard for him to open up to others, but he was at times well intentioned. He just needed to mature, he needed to grow up and work on his emotions and communication. He then shifted, sensing an oncoming demonic aura, it seemed their peace had been short lived, distant howls were heard in the distance as a barrage of demonic three eyed wolves appeared from the distance. "He's coming" Souta informed.
Miroku nodded, it seemed their brief peace had been short lived and the fight was beginning "They will not surpass my barrier" he soothed. The wolves raced toward them, gnashing teeth, snarls, growls and howls, approaching the hut with intent. Drool slivering from their mouths as they bared their fangs, prepared to attack without hesitation. However, as soon as they reached proximity, they whimpered in pain as they hit the barrier, Miroku's spiritual aura deflecting them on site. Their demonic aura dissipated by the purity of his barrier, preventing them from passing. Miroku smirked, they were no match for his power, venom or not.
Shippo peered out of the window, watching with hesitation and curiosity as he watched Souta and Miroku keep guard outside. InuYasha was still grumpy due to being removed from the battle due to his wounds, but it was for his wellbeing. He couldn't withstand an enemy in his condition. Lord Souta lacked any spiritual power to be of assistance, but he harboured the willpower to protect his home. He fed Miroku medicine and food in order to keep his strength up, warding off any threats. He could sense the incoming demonic presence, the hairs on his body standing on end, withholding any whimpers he made. He wasn't strong enough to help, his powers wouldn't do anything to protect them, so he was forced to retreat too. He felt tears spiking his eyes, wishing Kaede was here to comfort him.
The tree line arched, bent and rustled, birds and other creatures departing in fear, a potent demonic aura approaching. Soon Royakan appeared from the woods, his glowing red eyes roaming the aura, sniffing out InuYasha, drool dripping from his enlarged jaws. "Where? Where is InuYasha?" he growled demandingly. Miroku felt a shiver of fear run down his spine at the increased size of the demon, fear filling him. This was different than the last time they met, something in the demon had changed and he was different. He was mindless, pure demonic instinct, sent on a hunting spree. But he couldn't be deterred, he was the only protection his friends had. He could sense the empowered demonic aura of the demon before him, he was stronger now. Naraku had to be behind this, he was wicked enough to pull the strings and have someone else enact his plans.
"He's searching for him, he plans to slay InuYasha while he's still weakened" Souta muttered, as he was, InuYasha wouldn't be able to stand on his own. The wounds his brother inflicted upon him wouldn't be fully healed, he wouldn't be able to fight as he was. He turned to Miroku with urgency, attempting to hide the panic in his eyes "Miroku, so long as your barrier holds InuYasha will remain shielded, we will remain protected" he pressed. He knew this was a lot to ask of him, but he needed to hold out a little longer.
Miroku nodded, however he couldn't deny the alteration in Royokan, something had occurred to make him stronger. This whole situation felt too strange, none of them had heard of the panther demon before now, nor had they any previous confrontations. He was not a vengeful demon, he wasn't known for being aggressive, so how had this change come about? There had to be other factors involved. "What could have happened to Royokan? He seems different. I have a distinct feeling that perhaps a jewel shard is involved in this" Miroku pressed. The power of the jewel warped humans and demons alike into the worst version of themselves, coveting its power for their own gain. Ryokokan loomed over the hut, sniffing them out, he could smell them but he couldn't see them. As if he had become blind, as if his senses were lying to him, the familiar scent of humans and the half breed InuYasha, but where were they hiding? Ryokan swiped the barrier, looming over their heads, causing Souta to gasp in panic, and Miroku to wince, withholding a panicked yelp. InuYasha was still safe within the barrier and Ryokan couldn't see them.
Naraku observed from the distance, watching the barrier that Miroku had formed to protect InuYasha and the others. The monk just never seemed to quit, relentlessly enacting revenge on him, despite the curse laid on his family, his potent spiritual abilities remained. He was impressed by how he hung onto life, refusing to allow the wind tunnel to consume him, desperate to break the curse. But he saw other familiar faces among them, many he hadn't expected, it was hard to believe that Souta Higurashi still survived. When the slaughter of the Higurashi clan was enacted, he swore all living members were taken care of. How fitting that the only biological descendant of that family lacked any of the gifts his predecessors harboured. He had always been a coward, averting danger and any form of conflict, but here he was dragged to the front lines. His family had truly died out, he couldn't even protect the pathetic village had grown up in. He smirked in amusement "What pathetic protection they have attempted, as if they could stop me" he chuckled.
Miroku peered into the distance, a quiet whistling sound pierced the air, but what could it be? Focusing on what he could hear, what senses were still available to him aside from keeping the barrier in place. A flute? Some form of instrument? He narrowed his eyes to catch a closer glimpse of the attack, his eyes widened in panic. An arrow shot through the air, aimed towards them, speeding through the air. The arrow would barely affect him as he could still keep the barrier up. However, he noticed the direction it was aimed at, his eyes following its line of sight; Souta. Souta had already endured injuries when his sisters grave was desecrated when Urasue resurrected her. His healing time was slower than the rest of them due to his age, now that he was protecting InuYasha, he wouldn't be able to cope with further damage. Naraku was aiming to harm Souta as a distraction "Lord Souta!" Miroku protested.
Souta panicked, if Miroku became distracted for any reason they were doomed, this was exactly what their attacker wanted. "No! Don't be foolish, this barrier is all the protection we have!" Souta protested. Miroku got to his feet, shielding Souta with his shakujou, blocking the attack, swiping it in midair, the barrier faltering.
Naraku smirked from the distance
Royokan smirked in amusement, sniffing the air as the scents became stronger, his senses had indeed been correct. "Finally, my vision is clear, I can sense that halfling InuYasha" he growled. Miroku and Souta panicked, their only protection was now gone, the weak barrier they had formed was now no more. Miroku wouldn't be able to form a new one in time and he wasn't strong enough alone. InuYasha was still gravely injured and couldn't protect them from harm. Royokan slammed his giant clawed hand into the hut, crushing it beneath his grasp, the sound of crunching and cracking wood. Shippo and InuYasha still trapped inside the hut.
Miroku's face paled, an expression of fear formed on his face, his stomach dropping with panic "Inu... InuYasha! Shippo!" he called desperately. As annoying as the half breed could be he was still a trusted friend, someone he had come to care for. He couldn't imagine a more painful way to go than being crushed alive with weakened demonic power to protect yourself. Binding InuYasha in this hut had been the worst idea they could think of.
Souta's eyes stung with tears, his eyes filled with panic as the memories of his family's death formed in his mind, remembering the burning hut, the potent scent of blood and his mother and grandfather's lifeless bodies. InuYasha was the closest thing he had left to family, the last person in the world he cared about. He couldn't be gone, he couldn't leave him too "Inu... InuYasha?" he stammered. Naraku couldn't have won, he couldn't have killed InuYasha so easily.
Suddenly, a bright light formed where the hut had been, a large swipe of demonic energy hit Royokan in the face, sending him clamouring backward, howling in pain. InuYasha leapt to the ground, landing delicately as he held Tetsuigha in his grasp, glaring down at the transformed wolf demon impatiently "I owe you one wolf breath, you just released me from the cage these two jerks sealed me away in" he scoffed. Miroku's cursed scrolls had kept him sealed for long enough, it seems his spiritual power was nothing to scoff at even with his curse. But he was finally free and would ward off these demons better than they had. Miroku snorted in amusement, repressing the irritation he felt, he had channelled his powers even after the poisoning to protect him. And all InuYasha had done was sulk and complain.
Souta laughed in relief, choking a weary sob, he was glad he was still alive. He'd lived without InuYasha for so long he'd come to miss him, having him back was a fond sense of nostalgia for him. Even after their protection, InuYasha wouldn't show gratitude and would merely convey affectionate insults, how fitting. "It was for your own protection InuYasha Onii-chan" Souta berated him, though his tone was softer.
"You stubborn fool, can you never appreciate any kind gesture?" Miroku scolded, he had been gravely wounded by his brother during his last battle, they had all assumed it may kill him. Sesshoumaru hadn't only stabbed him in the abdomen, but he had used his venom claws too. He was lucky to be alive, anything less would have killed a human.
Royokan growled impatiently, how could he still be this powerful after such a severe wound to his abdomen? "Half breed! Die peacefully so you may not cause me any more hassle!' he demanded.
InuYasha dodged angrily, growling under his breathe, swiping the Tetsuigha at the wolf demon impatiently. First Sesshoumaru had come for another sibling argument, claiming to be stronger and attempting to use their fathers sword for his own means. Gravely wounded him and then left with his tail between his legs. Then he sent Kikyo away to protect her, now he was being attacked all over again, couldn't he get any peace? "Give it a rest wolf breath!" he snapped. This fight would be over with soon and all these pests could leave him be. Rokokan swiped, sending InuYasha hurtling backwards still gripping the blade in his hands, landing on his feet as he glared down the wolf demon, fangs bared.
"He's been pushed back" Souta stated, he knew it was too soon for him to be facing battle, his wounds and full demonic potential hadn't yet returned. He was being too risky.
InuYasha stared down the giant wolf demon reflectively, something was wrong. He'd barely sensed it while sealed away but now up closer he knew he wasn't mistaken in the slightest. The first time they met this wolf his strength was never this potent, what had changed for him to grow stronger in such a short period? Something was amiss, something had changed but he couldn't figure out what it was. Suddenly, they caught a glimpse of a gleam on the ground, it couldn't be?! InuYasha patted his chest before he realised the jewel shard slipped from his robes during the fight "Damn it" he cursed. He had been too careless and he was paying the consequences, if Royokan got ahold of the jewel, then his sacrifice for Kaede and Kikyo had been for nothing.
Shippo scrambled from the rubble of the shattered hut, rummaging from the wood and towards the jewel shard, snatching it within his small paws. InuYasha had his hands full as it was, he couldn't focus entirely on the shards and he wasn't going to be used as target practice. It was up to him to keep them safe now. He wrapped the jewel around his neck and hid it within his robes "I... it got it! I have it!" he yelled in a panic. He glared at Royokan and his wolf lackeys, he had tried to steal if after all their hard work but he wouldn't let that happen. "This doesn't belong to you! Lady Kikyo found these fair and square!" he protested, he scampered in the direction of the bone eaters well, where InuYasha pushed Kaede and her sister down. He had to get to them, hopefully calling them back.
InuYasha panicked, what was Shippo thinking? This had to be the stupidest idea he had to date, he wasn't strong enough to take on Royokan and he couldn't pass through the well like he could. He was being reckless, he wasn't using his head and this would just get him killed "Shippo! What the hell?" he snapped.
Royokan growled impatiently, turning towards the small fox cub with a wicked grin, he was fast but he was no match for him "You can't escape me little cub! I will claim the jewel!" he snarled. He gurgled loudly, a rumble in his chest as he opened his jaws wide, spewing demonic wolves from his mouth and directing them at Shippo. Sending them snarling and growling after the small cub. They would chase him down and claim the jewel, he was no match for them. Shippo's eyes widened in fear as he scampered faster into the woods, running as fast as his paws would allow. Refusing to look back and face the fear coursing through him.
Miroku growled, slowly removing the beads from his wrist, Shippo had made a brave sacrifice and it couldn't go in vain. His speed would deter Royokan from gaining the jewel for himself. They needed to handle things here before they could reunite with Shippo, preparing to use the wind tunnel "I'll handle these strays" he huffed.
Souta panicked, gripping his wrist to stop him, he lacked the medicinal training to care for him and he was all they had right now. Numbers were crucial and they couldn't be reckless, Miroku shot him a confused look as to why he was stopping him. Souta tightened his grip on his arm "No medicine we have is strong enough to combat Saimyosho venom. Without Lady Kikyo's medicinal knowledge you are as good as dead" he argued. Nodding his head in the direction of the demonic wasps that accompanied Naraku. Kikyo was not only an efficient priestess with formidable spiritual power, she was also a skilled herbologist. Miroku panicked, withholding his wind tunnel, fear filling him as he watched Shippo escape and fear run through him, they were helpless.
InuYasha stared down Royokan, he knew Naraku was behind this, the entire scheme stank of him. He had waited until he sent Kikyo away, knowing they wouldn't have that defence and she was InuYasha's weakness. Then he sent the attackers after them, hoping to kill them all before claiming the jewel for himself. He'd planned this whole attack, knowing without Kikyo's assistance they were screwed. He was truly cunning, he'd thought of all the alternatives, he just hoped Shippo got away.
Kikyo sat reflectively in silence at the kitchen table, jars of medicine placed in front of her, she had spent her forced time in the modern era creating more jars of herbal remedies. She had no other form of passing the time, no other distraction capable of entertaining her. Some for paying customers, some for InuYasha and her friends, not that they would need them given she couldn't return. The loneliness gnawing away at her couldn't be evaded, no matter how much she tried to forget she couldn't. She was now acting out of habit, as the saying went "autopilot", a longing emptiness formed in her chest, thinking of the people she had left behind.
"Once-chan?" Kaede asked curiously, she'd finished all her schoolwork and there was nothing else to keep her occupied. So she sought out her sister to check on her but also her company, sensing their mutual loneliness. Kikyo had been in a daze ever since InuYasha stole the shards from her and sent them home. Kikyo seemed distant, longing, lost and reflective, she knew she was thinking of InuYasha, thinking of what became of him and whether he missed her.
Kikyo turned to her younger sister with a weary smile "Gomen Kaede, I'm lost in my own world, is something the matter?" she questioned. She hadn't been much of a companion or a sister to Kaede since they came back, she was just so lost in her own sadness. She was supposed to be her guardian and all she was doing was sulking, neglecting her sister despite her reliance on her.
Kaede shifted, a sad expression on her face "I miss InuYasha too, and Shippo" she admitted. InuYasha had become the older brother she never had, a mentor and someone she could look up to. He was kind to her, he didn't deny her powers and helped her grow in her own way. He truly cared about her older sister and respected them both. Shippo was the first boy to pay attention to her, even for a demon. He was kind, thoughtful, awkward but well intentioned and she found that endearing. Kikyo softened, aware that their forced imprisonment in their own era had hurt them both deeply, they had no living family to keep them company or check on them, back to their old life. Kaede was still a student in school, working on her future and enjoying her adolescence. While Kikyo as the older sister was the breadwinner and parental figure. Soon she would be in college and working towards a career. But they had no close friends, nor family whom would check on them or care for them. They had no relationships that filled their life, gave them meaning or truly impacted them. The people they loved were all in the past.
Suddenly, there was a knock on the door, snapping them out of their daze, an unfamiliar face they hadn't expected. Remembering that nobody else knew what they did, nobody else was aware of their secret life. Kikyo stiffened, sitting upright in her chair in surprise, a small gasp escaping her lips, glad she had no tea beside her or it would have spilled. She wasn't expecting visitors? Perhaps a customer at the temple? She would rather avoid any socialising or human contact for the time being to well in her feelings, but she knew that wasn't an option. She sighed wearily, getting to her feet to answer the door. Her eyes widened as she was met with the face of Hitomi Kagewaki, holding a bouquet of pink flowers.
He smiled warmly at her, he knew she had been absent from school for a time and when she returned she wasn't the same person. He didn't know what disheartened her so but he wished to comfort her "Himura-san, I was worried you weren't home" he greeted. He knew she had matters to attend to as the priestess of the temple.
Kikyo blinked, confusion and disappointment filled her, it would have meant more if InuYasha was stood in front of her. For him to grovel, apologise and make amends for his actions, no matter how reasonable they were. She had no connection to Kagewaki, she had never cared for him nor fully acknowledged him. He was a handsome but lonely young man in her class whom harboured an interest in her. As touched as she was for his concern, he had come at an inappropriate time "Kagewaki-kun?" she questioned.
"I apologise for the abrupt visit, but I noticed during your return to school you seemed at odds, so I thought you would appreciate this gesture" he explained. She always seemed to be off in her own world, responsible and diligent, but when was the last time anyone did anything kind for her? Kikyo softened, gratefully taking the flowers while she found a vase to place them in, making sure they got light. Kaede stared at him curiously, why was this man so intent on entering her life? When she was in love with someone else? She knew Kikyo had admirers but she never paid any of them a shred of interest. Kagewaki noticed Kaede watching him observantly, a suspicious expression on her face"You must be Kikyo's younger sister" he greeted. He knew like her older sister she was to become a priestess in training too.
Kaede folded her arms, Kikyo was too polite for her own good, this guy didn't stand a chance with her sister. No matter how handsome he was, no matter how charming or sweet that didn't make her worthy of his time. Kikyo didn't feel the same way and he needed to get that into his head. "Kikyo Onee-chan is upset because she got into a fight with her boyfriend" she pressed. InuYasha had sent her away, he had told her he didn't need her anymore, he'd lied to her to protect her.
Kikyo stiffened, spilling water over the rim of the vase, her cheeks darkened in a panic "Kaede!" she hissed. None of her classmates knew about InuYasha, none of them knew of their complicated romance. She didn't need Kaede telling everyone.
Hitomi's expression changed from calm to confused, awkward silence filling the room before he blushed awkwardly "I.. I see.." he knew Kikyo was attractive, intelligent, empathetic, all the traits someone would find appealing in a person. He knew that someone would scoop her up before too long, he just never wanted to consider it. Part of him hoped she would still be available, that he had a chance with her.
Kikyo sighed wearily, placing the vase in the window so the flowers would get enough sun, she couldn't deny she was involved with someone, but it was really nobody else's business. Kagewaki was a kind person, he'd never had a relationship and became attached to her. But attempting to court her would never lead anywhere. "Kaede is correct, I am involved with someone, however we've recently had a rough patch, in which we had an argument to which I came home to recuperate. But I still love them and our feelings remain mutual. We needed some time apart to clear our heads" she admitted. Their relationship was complicated, more complicated than anyone in this world could ever comprehend but it made her happy. She wasn't going to explain she had fallen in love with a half demon, from an alternate dimension which was several centuries in the past. That she was the reincarnation of a dead priestess, that in her past life she was an entirely different person. That her brief absences from school were because she was reclaiming fragments of a powerful jewel, they would all look at her as if she was insane. But for the first time in her life, she had meaning, value and true happiness. She didn't owe them that, she owed them nothing.
Kagewaki's expression formed into disappointment, he had realised someone had caught Kikyo's eye. He'd always sensed that it was too good to be true, he was chasing a dream he would never obtain. That she had become distracted and someone else had courted her, someone older perhaps, a college freshman.
"I appreciate your thoughtful gesture to comfort me, the gift is much appreciated and your kindness was well intentioned. However, I don't want you to assume that this could lead to a romantic relationship. I don't want misunderstandings and false hope to become a problem" Kikyo explained. There would be a girl out there for him, someone who would love him the way he wished she would. But she wasn't that person, she would never be that person and he needed to accept that. She appreciated his concern for her but she didn't feel that way about him.
An expression of sadness and disappointment formed on Kagewaki's expression, his eyes barely holding back sadness. Kikyo was the type of woman who was always out of reach, who felt too good to be true. Everyone had warned him not to get too close but he never listened. "I've always admired you Himura-san, your kindness is admirable and even now you've been honest with me. It's hard not to fall for someone like you" he admitted."However, my gesture was of good will and I apologise for any misunderstandings" he explained.
Kikyo softened, watching as Hitomi nodded and left, a saddened expression on his face. She knew he was heartbroken and things would be tense around him for a period due to her rejection. Kikyo slowly closed the door before turning to Kaede with an impatient expression. She had spoken out of turn and it hadn't been her place to say anything "Kaede! You had no business to inform Kagewaki of my relationship with InuYasha! My romantic endeavours are none of his business!" she snapped.
Kaede frowned, she could sense this guy had hoped to date her sister, he had been dreaming of dating her. But he was spacey enough not to realise she loved someone else "He's totally in love with you, doe eyes, puppy love! If I hadn't said anything he would have tried to come between you and InuYasha" she huffed.
Kikyo softened, she knew Kaede was correct but there had to be a kinder way of going about it. She didn't want anyone to get hurt, she had never wanted anyone to get hurt. She sighed wearily, she was done arguing, she didn't have the patience to fight anymore. She was exhausted, she was lonely and she missed InuYasha more than anything, sliding down the kitchen cupboards before sitting on the floor. She'd tried to distract herself but she knew it was useless, all she wanted was to see him again. Hugging her knees to her chest as she rested her head on her knees, her chest felt tight, her eyes became blurry and stung as they filled with tears, becoming glassy and reflective. Her body slowly trembling as she began to cry. The pain in her heart consumed her, her feelings flooding her as images of his face formed in her mind.
"Onee-chan" Kaede mumbled in concern, she hadn't expected Kikyo to react like this, she expected her to be mad, to scold her. But instead she crumbled and began crying uncontrollably. Kikyo's sobs became more vocal, as soft whimpers and sobs escaped her lips, tears spilling down her cheeks as she tried to wipe them away. Kaede hurried to her sisters side, a panicked expression formed on her face "Onee-chan, I'm sorry... I shouldn't have said anything, I was being rude. I just... I miss InuYasha Onii-chan too! I miss Shippo, I miss them all!" she protested. She didn't want Kikyo to cry, she didn't want her to be unhappy, she wanted to know how to make it better.
Kikyo shook her head, Kaede was blameless in all of this "I...I miss him... I miss InuYasha so much, this empty longing in my chest, knowing he cast me aside. I... I understand why, after losing Lady Kagome all those years ago. He did it to protect us, protect me. But I don't understand why?! I promised to protect him, we promised to protect each other. I don't know why he would send me away after we defeated his brother. When we could be protecting him" she whimpered. He had been scared, terrified of her being hurt and something happening to her, so he sent her away to protect her. He'd already lost someone important to him and refused to lose her too. But he made that decision without her, acting like he knew what was best for her. InuYasha was the first good thing to happen to her in a long time, someone she could be herself with and someone whom she shared a connection with. He wasn't like the clueless and vapid fans at her school, who admired her for false reasons and created idyllic versions of her in their minds. He wasn't like the fangirls who knew nothing about her, they had formed a genuine emotional bond and cared for each other. He knew about her trauma's and imperfections, he loved her anyway and helped her overcome her insecurities, who helped her become more comfortable with expressing her pain and flaws. Kaede softened, Kikyo wasn't always as strong or confident as she appeared to be, sometimes she endured great loneliness without telling anyone. "I was reborn to love him Kaede, my soul was once hers, I was once in the same situation Kagome was. But I'm not her, I'm someone else. Our lives were as lonely and empty as his was, but we found each other and I fell in love" she whispered. She had no family aside from Kaede, he had no family aside from Sesshoumaru, both of them were drawn to each other. They found meaning in one another.
Kaede reached out to squeeze her sisters hand "You really do love him Onee-chan, I think this is what you would call first love. You've finally met your person in a way you never expected to and now that InuYasha sent you away, you don't know how to feel. I think InuYasha Onii-chan is just scared, he panicked and thought of the most drastic solution, but he really does love you" she reassured her. Kikyo had no interest in love before, she had no experience with it, that was until she met InuYasha. They grew together, they learned from one another. They brought out the best in one another. Kikyo softened, wiping her eyes, she had never cried over a boy before, she'd never felt this way about anyone. It was a strange feeling, one she would come to be familiar with, this aching yearning in her chest. She wanted to see him, she needed to see him. "He wanted to protect you, after losing Lady Kagome, after her resurrection, after his brother attacked us. He didn't want you to get hurt" she explained. Kikyo had every right to be angry at InuYasha for making a decision without her, for assuming she would accept it. But he did what he did out of love, out of fear. Kikyo wiped her eyes, Kaede was truly wise beyond her years, she was growing up to be someone she was proud of. Pulling her sister to her chest, hugging her tightly, crying into her sisters shoulder helplessly. Kaede smiled weakly "Y'know, we could find a nice place to eat some cake, forget our boy troubles and have a girls day" she suggested. Kikyo laughed softly, still crying but nodded.
Shippo scrambled through the woods, his heart hammering in his chest, ringing in his ears, he didn't know how long he'd been running or how far. His eyes wide with fear and stinging with tears, the jewel shard still hanging around his neck. The sounds of wolves growing closer and closer, their growls and snarls echoing in his ears, hunting him down, sniffing him out. Trying to track him down to rip him apart. "I gotta hide, I gotta get away, but where? Where can I go?" he sobbed, he needed to find a place to hide, a secure one where he wouldn't be found. He couldn't think clearly, fear rushing through him. He yelped as he turned a corner, a wolf snapping behind him and slamming into a tree. Soon he saw the bone eaters well, the same one InuYasha threw Kikyo and Kaede into, he felt a sense of relief fill him. Running towards the well desperately and diving inside, hoping the tree would block the path. Hoping the wolves would get tired of looking and let him hide in peace. Hoping Kaede or Kikyo would sense him or the jewel
Kaede and Kikyo sat quietly in a cafe, two steaming cups of hot chocolate with whipped cream placed in front of them, something familiar, sweet and comforting. Something about chocolate just made everything better. Kaede had a giant souffle cheesecake placed in front of her, covered in strawberries and some sauce, her eyes bright and wide with happiness. She'd ordered it without hesitation and happily dug in as soon as it arrived. Kikyo had a slice of strawberry shortcake, covered in fresh cream and strawberries, enjoying the softness of the sponge, the creaminess of the filling and the sweetness of the strawberry. They all complimented one another perfectly.
Kaede took a large fork full and placed it into her mouth with a content hum, she wished Shippo could enjoy this sort of thing but he was living in another world where this didn't exist. But this helped with her loneliness and separation from the fox demon. She didn't know why cake just helped solve your troubles "Y'know, it's true what they say, cake fixes everything" Kaede reflected in amusement. This already made her feel much better, filling the sadness inside of her and all she could think about was how good it tasted.
Kikyo laughed softly, her eyes still red and puffy from crying, she knew Kaede just wanted her to smile again. That she couldn't stand how unhappy her sister was and wanted to make her happy again. She knew the one thing she wanted above all was to be by his side again, but the warm creamy chocolate indulgence did help her grieving heart. She could focus on her studies and all that had been neglected in her absence. She could work from home and hand in her schoolwork without the teachers asking questions. Being away from InuYasha for a period to clear her mind had helped, understanding the differences in their lives and opposite responsibilities. But she still longed for him, she still wished to be held by him, to hear his voice, to be able to look into his eyes again. But easing the sadness with something sweet wasn't a bad idea.
InuYasha dove his claws and the Tetsuigha into every attacking wolf he could see, frustration and impatience filling him, there just seemed no end to them no matter what he did. Royokan seemed to have an endless barrage of wolves at his disposal, the more they killed the more he produced. Miroku slamming his staff against the Saimyosho, their incessant buzzing becoming irritable, no matter what they did there seemed to be no end to them. Naraku knew their weaknesses and was trying to wear them out. Souta gripped a sickle tightly, swiping at any demon that came close, what he lacked in power he made up for in technique and strength. InuYasha cracked his claws, he was done playing games, he was done being hunted and tormented "Iron reaver soul stealer" he growled, slicing through the wolves. He wanted this over with, he wanted this demon to just give up but he kept coming back. Slicing through the last of the wolves, staring at their bodies. His chest heaved, the wound in his stomach ached, still healing but not fully repaired. He needed some form of balm or potion, anything that would provide numbing, he needed Kikyo's medicine to help with the pain.
"InuYasha is usually so efficient in battle, he seems distracted" Miroku reflected mentally. InuYasha was by far the most formidable opponent he'd come across. His inhuman stamina, efficiency and calculation was impressive. However, his tendency to use brute force and emotions blinded him and often led to his defeat. But since Kikyo had been sent back to her realm, he had been short tempered, stubborn and distracted. Perhaps his loneliness was starting to effect him in battle.
Souta watched silently, he knew what was the issue without InuYasha having to realise it, he'd seen this happen before. As efficient a fighter as InuYasha was, he never worked well alone, believing he never needed anyone. So long as he had someone he needed to protect it gave him a sense of clarity and maturity. Before his sister passed, they had worked as an efficient team, communicating with one another and protecting the other, they fought demons together and trusted one another. A hard working duo, InuYasha and Kagome had always protected one another. Kikyo was more withdrawn but vulnerable, she was intellectual and perceptive, she was efficient in battle, the trust she and InuYasha shared made them more powerful together. Kikyo was perceptive, she took in her surroundings before she considered anything and used the enemies weakness against them. She was truly cunning and capable of forming schemes. Willing to sacrifice anything for the other. Kikyo's experience and older mentality made her a better fighter and soldier, what she lacked in experience she made up for with intellect. InuYasha was weaker without Kikyo, without her conscience guiding him to do the right thing he acted recklessly and irrationally. Without his mate, without his lover, without his better half, he wasn't able to understand or perceive his potential.
InuYasha dodged Royokan's attack, avoiding his swipes by lowering his head, growling impatiently. They were running around in circles with little to no achievement and it was getting exhausting.
"InuYasha, he's using the power of the jewel, you just need to dislodge it" Miroku called, so long as he had the jewel shards wedged into his head they would never be able to beat him. Using the power of the jewel would increase his demonic power and give him the advantage. If they removed the shards he would be de-powered and they would have the upper hand. InuYasha shifted, he knew Royokan harboured a jewel shard but without Kikyo he wouldn't be able to find it. He lacked the spiritual senses to be able to locate them, and Miroku didn't have that kind of power.
"Kikyo harbours a more potent spiritual essence than my sister, with her help we may be able to regain it" Souta pressed. Kikyo was necessary at times like these, she could remove the shards and prevent further damage. She was the only known priestess to be able to sense the jewel shards, no other living priestess harboured that kind of power. It was a unique trait solely linked to them.
InuYasha frowned, he opened his heart to Kikyo, he fell in love with her the same way he did Kagome. They had been drawn to one another, unable to deny their attraction or the bond they shared. He knew he was safe with Kikyo, something he hadn't felt in a very long time, someone he could truly open up to. But Kikyo was different, she was more mature, wiser, she didn't argue with him the same way Kagome did. But he needed to forget her, he couldn't deny her of making life decisions that would benefit her in the long term. If she continued to live in the feudal era she would just deny herself opportunities for her future. She could become a doctor, she could finish high school, she could raise her sister and she could meet someone more suited for her. She could help people, she could heal people and she would find a person who could live in her world. He closed off the well so she could be severed from him and focus on her life, no matter how much he loved her. She would never return, she would never be placed in the same danger she was ever again. He closed off the well to sever the link, to save them both from heartache "No, Kikyo needs to remain protected, she needs to stay away from Naraku and she needs to remain where she belongs. She doesn't belong in the battlefield" he insisted. Kikyo was a human, she was weak and she could be killed, he refused to have her blood on his hands. Naraku would just hunt her down and take her life like he had Kagome. Royakan spat wolves at InuYasha, who instantly sliced them apart without hesitation.
Kikyo walked back to the temple, her gaze remained fixated on the clouds, her soul calming itself. Watching their many forms, shapes and colours unfurl in her eyes, the darkened greys, silvers and blues, distracting herself. The sadness in her heart easing as she watched the clouds roll through the sky, her eyes filled with sadness and yet longing, wishing she could see InuYasha. She knew he was scared, as was she, if anything happened to him she could never forgive herself.
Kaede shifted, she knew that despite the comfort they had experienced, InuYasha was still on her sisters mind "You still miss him huh?" she asked. Kikyo was head over heels, she missed him when they were apart, he'd been on her mind ever since they left. She treasured the gifts he left her, she wanted to spend her life with him. If that wasn't love she didn't know what was.
Kikyo shifted, sighing heavily as she gripped her hands into balled fists, she couldn't deny their connection, that she was brought to his world for a connection to Kagome, how she was always going to meet InuYasha. She couldn't deny how much he had come to mean to her, how much they meant to each other. "No matter how far apart we are, our hearts are connected. I miss InuYasha so much" she reflected. Even in different eras, in different worlds, he was still on her mind, ghosts of him everywhere. She thought of when Sesshoumaru pierced him, plunging his claws within his abdomen, gravely wounded. The sickening vision of the blood, the screams from InuYasha and how frightened she had been that she could lose him. Sesshoumaru knew it wouldn't kill him but he had come close, he was willing to end his brother to get what he wanted. The way she pierced him with an arrow when he posed a threat to InuYasha and how InuYasha drove him away. The Tetsuigha protecting him. Her heart yearned for him and no matter how much she tried to distract herself all she could think of was him, she knew she could never be happy without him in her life. She turned to Kaede. "Kaede, why don't we try entering the well again" she suggested, she would never be content until she found a satisfying ending. InuYasha may have believed she was safer in her world, but he didn't always know what was best for her. She was capable of making her own decisions and sometimes he wouldn't like the outcome, but that was life. They needed to understand and respect the others choices. She was happier by his side than she ever was alone. Kaede beamed, knowing she could see Shippo again and her sister would be reunited with InuYasha.
Kikyo took a deep breath, slowly climbing down the ladder of the well, making sure Kaede didn't slip on the ladder rudders. The well was old, in need of repair and even maintenance couldn't evade the erosion of time. Donations helped keep the temple in good shape, they rarely asked for someone to check on it. But even she was aware of the age of the well. They had both since changed into different clothing and packed some belongings for their journey. Wearing a white heart shaped short sleeved blouse and blue jeans, and a pair of vans, carrying a rucksack on her back. Her lips coloured rouge with Izayoi's lipstick, hoping she could find strength within herself to make InuYasha listen to her. Her hair loose with a braided crown around the mid, bound with ribbon.
Kaede had her black hair tied into a braid that fell down her back, wearing a blue and white stripped T-shirt and jeans. Kikyo had calmly braided her hair, combing and styling with her fingers while Kaede sat still. Kikyo had been styling her hair since she was young and it still brought her comfort. Kaede dropped from the last rudder of the ladder before she landed on her feet with ease, the darkness of the well illuminated by the daylight. "I sense it... I sense the jewel" Kaede stated.
Kikyo hummed, she could sense it too, the overwhelming aura of the jewel, however, the jewel was still trapped within InuYasha's world. She wondered how they could sense such a powerful connection while being in an entirely different era. She landed at the bottom of the well with ease, lowering herself to the ground, trying to find the exact location, she could sense a faint demonic aura before she sensed the shard too. Allowing her hands to roam the ground carefully, trying to find a connection, Kikyo took a deep breathe "I can sense it, the jewel, but I don't know how?" she pressed. Was Kagome also capable of this power? Kaede gripped her fists, they were so close, the jewel was within reach, as was the answer to them getting back. They couldn't give up, something was connecting them, she began digging through the well, her hands sifting through the dirt. Her fingers and hands delving into the dirt and shovelling it carefully, she needed to see Shippo again, she needed to know that he and InuYasha were safe. They were in danger and both she and Kikyo could sense that, but they couldn't reach them. But she also needed to chew InuYasha out for using her as bait to make Kikyo go through the well. Kikyo lowered herself to the ground, aiding her sister in moving more of the dirt to pass through the well.
Shippo felt tears blinding his eyes as he heard the growling of the wolves growing louder, remembering how he lost his father to the thunder brothers. Things couldn't end this way, not before he got stronger, not before he became happy. His hands covered in dirt as she dug harder and harder, his small paws not big enough to make a dent. He couldn't do this alone, he needed Kikyo and Kaede, he needed them to appear, he needed them to come back. Suddenly a potent pink light blinded him, an energy filling the well causing the wolves to repel, whimpering and howling in a panic. Two figures forming from the darkness, the pink light taking shape. Kaede appearing from the darkness, confused and spacey but sitting in front of him, wearing a striped shirt and jeans, a braid falling down her back. She blinked in confusion, adjusting to the light and her surroundings. Kikyo perched beside her carrying a rucksack, the jewel fragment in her hand, sighing in relief and taking in her surroundings. Shippo rubbed his eyes, wiping tears away, dirt marks appearing on his face but he couldn't care in the slightest. Hope and relief filling him in waves. Was this real? Were they real?This couldn't be, it felt too good to be true. He licked his lips nervously "K... Kaede? Kikyo?" he stammered.
Kaede turned to face him with relief, her expression lightening as a happy smile formed on her face, they had managed to get back. Had the jewel brought them here or had Shippo wished it and the jewel granted his wish? "Shippo! I missed you!" she beamed, scooping him into her arms and hugging him tightly. He still smelled the same, he was as soft as ever. Shippo blushed, caught off guard by her gesture but happily nuzzling against her, he never thought he would see them again. It felt like forever since they had been here. They were back, things were back to normal. However, a loud growl overhead disturbed the peace, snapping them from their happy reunion. Demonic wolves loomed over them, their eyes glowing red angrily, snarling and growling at them. Shippo whimpered in fear, clinging to Kaede harder while Kaede yelped in panic. Kikyo raised her arm defensively to protect Kaede and Shippo glaring them down.
InuYasha growled, blocking and slicing at Ryokan's wolves impatiently, growling and huffing, did they ever know when to quit? He no longer had the jewel anymore so why were they still coming after him? The wind blowing past them, to which his eyes widened in surprise, abruptly his nose twitched, his eyes gleaming brighter as a familiar scent filled his nose. It couldn't be, he'd sent her home, she couldn't be here, and yet... he knew that scent anywhere. His heart fluttering "I... Kikyo.. I can smell her" he stammered. How had she gotten back? How had she returned? She didn't have the jewel. Souta's eyes widened in surprise, Lady Kikyo had returned? She had managed to find her way back to them?
"Kikyo?" Miroku yelled, using her powers or some other method she had been able to cross the boundaries that separated their world and found her way back. Maybe she could assist them in battle at last and defeat this enemy. InuYasha turned on his heels, racing in the direction of the well, he knew that was where she would be without a doubt. The loneliness and gnawing he'd repressed all this time hitting him in waves, he had so much to say to her, so much to apologise for. He'd done what he thought was best and that meant hurting her, but he was so happy she was back, he hated that he sent her away but he had no other choice.
"Don't turn your back in battle fool!" Royokan growled, now he was trying to flee? Was he admitting defeat or taking the cowards way out?
InuYasha growled, he'd been fighting this guy for hours and he was sick of looking at his stupid face. Couldn't he take the hint to find someone else to bother? Baring his fangs as he cracked his claws, he'd had just about enough of him. Turning on his heels to swipe at Royokan, swiping at his neck and hitting him "Give it a rest! Stop getting in my way fur ball!" he growled. He had more important matters to attend to and he was just getting in his way. He gripped Tetsuigha, swiping at him sending a surge of energy from the wind scar, sending the wolf flying backwards. The latter yelping in pain and panic as he was driven backwards.
Miroku stared in awe, compared to his previous display in battle, InuYasha had become stronger, his potency had changed drastically. He didn't know where this sudden surge of power had come from but it was greatly appreciated. InuYasha bolted past Miroku desperately, headed in the direction of the well "InuYasha? Will you not finish him off?" he protested. InuYasha ignored him, racing to his needed location and ignoring his friends, they could handle it from here. Royakan growled angrily, lunging at the half demon vengefully, Miroku blocked his attack, moving out of the way and attacking with his staff. He wouldn't let him deter InuYasha from his mission.
Shippo gripped Kaede fearfully, his green eyes filled with fear, small whimpers escaping his lips as his fur stood on end, accepting his demise while in the arms of someone he had no idea why this demon kept attacking him or why they wanted the jewel so bad, he just wanted it to be over. Kikyo glared them down, prepared to summon her spiritual power to project it from her hands; she may have lacked any weaponry, but she was still capable of utilising her powers, she could still protect the ones she loved. She had learned to focus and channel her powers, relying on her intuition to do what was right. Warding off the demons. However, this was an enemy she knew nothing about, had InuYasha been reckless, had someone been sent after them in her absence? She needed information on what she had walked into. "Shippo, what on earth has occurred in our absence, who are these wolves? Where did they come from?" Kikyo demanded. The jewel shard now hung around her neck, delicately protected on her person. She had sensed that something was amiss, but she never considered it to be this bad.
Shippo swallowed nervously, he had no idea of where to start or why this was even happening. Sesshoumaru hadn't sent them, but someone else surely had. "Inu... InuYasha's wounds aren't fully healed yet, someone sent this wolf demon after him to kill him off" Shippo protested. They had kept him sealed away for as long as they could, allowing him to heal instead of acting recklessly, but that had only worked for so long.
Kikyo's gaze hardened, anger surging through her, someone had placed a hit on InuYasha and had sought to kill him. Using her absence as an opportunity while he was still recovering, how despicable. While she was trapped in her own world with Kaede, he'd been running around recklessly while enemies pursued him, she dreaded to think what could have happened if she never came back. She had no bow or arrow, she had no weapons she could use, only her wits and energy projection. "I knew something was wrong, I knew that I couldn't reside in my time, InuYasha needed me and he still sent me away" she reflected. Her instincts had been correct, her assumptions had been correct, she had been right to disobey and return. The wolves grew closer to them, Kikyo's hands slowly emitting a pink spiritual glow, glaring down the oncoming wolves.
Suddenly, the tree was ripped from the entrance to the well, the wolves atop it whimpering and howling in panic. All of them staring in awe and wondering what had happened. Royokan lunged towards InuYasha, bearing his fangs "This will be your end half breed" he snarled.
"Give it a rest!" InuYasha scoffed, plunging the tree within the demon wolves mouth, sending him hurtling towards the ground
Kikyo slowly climbed from the well, pushing Kaede to the entrance, placing her by the edge as Shippo gripped her shoulder and nuzzled against her. Relieved the danger was over and they were safe to leave their hiding place, assuring her sister was unharmed before she left the darkened entrance of the well. Kikyo pulled herself from the well, gripping the edge as she felt the sun on her skin, the soft summer breeze against her skin, the scent of flowers. Allowing her gaze to roam as she saw InuYasha's familiar silver hair as he landed on the ground after defeating the demon. Her heart fluttered at the sight of him, the longing she had endured without him coming back to her.
InuYasha turned his head, his gaze softening as Kikyo gazed upon him, her expression relieved and yet stunned. He'd thought he was dreaming, that he was just going mad without her presence, his nose hadn't deceived him, it was her scent that he caught wind of. He slowly landed, turning towards her, his golden amber eyes wide and confused, he felt a pool of anxiety fill him, his heart in his throat as his stomach dropped. Seeing her again, it just reminded him of how deep his feelings for her had become. He knew she would be angry at him, he had deceived her by sending her home and sealing her back home. Sending her back to the loneliness of her world, no parents, school and just Kaede for company.
Kikyo hesitated, slowly stepping towards him, terrified that if she touched him he would shatter to pieces. But she could sense his demonic aura, she could sense his presence. Fresh tears forming in her eyes, her lip trembling the closer she got, her hands shaking. Was this real? Was he real? Was this all just a dream formed of her loneliness? She licked her lips "Inu... InuYasha?" she stammered. She had so much to say to him, so much she wanted to yell at him for, but seeing him now the words died in her throat. She couldn't form the words to express how she felt in that moment.
InuYasha hesitated, his heart fluttering and panic filling him, why had she come back? Why would she return to this world after Sesshoumaru had tried to kill her twice? Why would she leave her world only to return to his? "You... you stubborn fool, why.. why would you? For me?" he stammered, his courage dying in his throat. She was just like Kagome, stubbornly returning into danger in order to be by his side. She didn't think rationally, she didn't consider the consequences, she just let herself be led to where he was; their souls were truly the same.
Kikyo bolted towards InuYasha, slamming against his chest, hammering her fists softly onto his chest, she was so relieved to see him again, yet anger filled her knowing he had made the decision without her consent. Angrily hitting him, venting her frustration, her anger, her sadness, all of the emotions he had made her feel. Knowing how much she loved him, how empty she felt when he sent her away. The way he flooded her mind despite them being apart. Separating himself from her without asking her first, without even considering what she wanted, knowing how lonely she would be without him. She wasn't going to let him trick her like that again, she wasn't going to let him decide what was best for her. Angry tears spiking her eyes "You...obstinate buffoon..." she wept. She wasn't Kagome, she was stronger than she was, she was more experienced and she was more than capable of holding her own. InuYasha stiffened, he hadn't seen Kikyo cry like this in a while, he hadn't seen this kind of rage. Her hands were shaking, she couldn't stop crying, she looked like she might break. Thinking of her alone in her home with Kaede, no parents, no family members to check on them. He'd been a jerk, he'd been selfish and thoughtless, thinking she would be happier back home. Kaede watched from the distance smiling fondly while Shippo rested comfortably on her shoulder, remembering how much her sister had cried, waiting for him; wishing she could see him again.
"I...was so angry, so confused... so lonely, you told me you loved me, but you sent me away after what happened. All I could think about was how badly you were hurt and how much I missed you" she sobbed. She tried to find a reason, tried to think logically to make it easier, trying to make sense of it but she was still hurt by his actions. They were supposed to be lovers, they were supposed to rely on one another and talk about things. Knowing how afraid he was she understood, but he had let his fear blind him. Nothing she did helped distract her, no matter how much she tried to focus on her studies, no matter how much she tried to delve into her everyday life. She felt so disconnected from everyone, like she was living a strangers life, he had filled her thoughts endlessly.
InuYasha shifted, the longer he spent with Kikyo, the more the ghosts of his past haunted him, terrified Kikyo would befall the same fate. All he could think about was Kagome, her crying face, her rage, the scent of blood. Watching her family be killed and turning an arrow against him. But when he was with Kikyo, he felt calm, he could openly speak with her about his truama the prejudice he'd faced for being a half breed. Losing his mother and all the difficulties he'd faced in life. He'd fallen in love all over again and it hurt to let her go, knowing he was happier than he'd been in a long time. He slowly wrapped his arms around her, nuzzling her hair affectionately, he'd missed her scent. "I told you to stay away" he pressed, his voice hurt.
Kikyo averted her gaze to look at him, her hands still gripping his robes, she could sense the hurt and sadness in his tone. He had missed her, she knew it, but he'd pushed her away to protect them both. But she was rightfully angry at him and she wouldn't forgive him so easily, he would need to earn her trust again. "No matter what I did, no matter how much I tried to distract myself, you were all I could think about" she pressed. No matter Kagewaki's heartfelt gesture she couldn't offer him her heart, it already belonged to InuYasha. No matter whom looked her way, no matter what man tried to take his place InuYasha was all she would want. InuYasha had solidified himself into her life, he'd just become someone familiar, ghosts of him had been everywhere, like a piece of her was missing.
InuYasha blushed, caught off guard by her boldness, how long had it been since a girl had said that to him? Hell since a person had said that to him? Her life was as empty as his own without her, he brought meaning to her life and the sentiment was returned. "She... she missed me that much" he reflected. He had to admit he was lost for words, utterly speechless and caught off guard.
Kikyo wiped her eyes, they were already red and puffy from crying earlier, now she was crying once again. She felt embarrassed at the state she found herself in, lowering her guard and weeping like this. She placed her hand to his chest, she could see the slight blood from his wounds seeping through, he was still pushing himself in her absence. Had those wolves she had seen been hunting him down? How many had there even been? Thank god she brought medicine with her, he would heal faster with her help. "You... you really are such a fool" she sighed, pressing herself to his chest as she cried.
InuYasha softened, a warm smile forming on his lips, he had really missed her, the scent of her calming him, comforting him. She was even wearing the lipstick, the same shell he gifted her when they met Shippo. The way she fit so naturally in his arms, how happy he felt when he was with her. He rested his head atop hers, burying his nose in her hair. "You're such a crybaby" he teased, just as Kagome had been. But she was adorable when she was crying.
Kaede watched her sister and InuYasha with amusement, they were both so stubborn at times it was amusing. This was the first time Kikyo had cried like that in front of InuYasha, he first breakdown she'd had in front of someone. InuYasha was flustered and caught off guard but they had made up and apologised to one another. She scratched Shippo's ear affectionately "Honestly, InuYasha Onii-chan can be so stubborn, he could have just said he was scared to lose her" she sighed.
"That's InuYasha for you, such an idiot" Shippo agreed
Miroku and Souta appeared from the distance, walking towards the well patiently, in the direction that Shippo and InuYasha headed. The demons had lessened, the wolves had stopped attacking and things seemed more peaceful. Had InuYasha defeated them alone? Had they retreated? Their eyes widened at the sight before them. Kaede sat by the well with Shippo sat in her lap comfortably, conversing with her as she scratched his ears. Kikyo hugging InuYasha calmly, her head rested on his chest as she breathed in his scent, the sound of his heartbeat, the warmth of his body. Miroku smiled warmly at the sight of the two sisters, the bond they shared with the two demons was truly unusual and yet heartwarming. They were able to connect and bond emotionally in a way others couldn't comprehend.
"Lady Kikyo and Kaede have returned at last" he sighed in relief, all was right with the world again. Shippo had openly stated his loneliness without Kaede and sulked the entire time. InuYasha had attempted to hide how Kikyo's absence had affected him but it was obvious for all of those who knew him closely. But there was one thing that confused him, he wondered how they had managed to pass through? He turned to Souta "Lord Souta, the village finally has protection".
Souta's gaze hardened, roaming the edge of the woods while watching Kikyo and InuYasha closely, suspicion forming in his gut. During Kikyo's absence, demons had rum amuck and without her spiritual wards, they had attempted to attack the village. Though Miroku had managed to keep them at bay, they didn't fear him like they did Kikyo. Now that she had returned, they would be able to sense her potent spiritual essence. Something felt amiss, it was all over way too soon "Is it not bizarre Miroku..." he pressed. As soon as the attack had happened, it was all over way too quickly, as if it had been a dream. Surely he sensed the change too, the lessened demonic aura. Miroku raised an eyebrow, turning to Souta, seeing the hardened and suspicious expression on the elder mans face. Souta had learned to listen to his instincts all these years, it was what had kept him alive. "The droves of toxic insects that plagued us during battle have ceased" Souta stated, the wasps which had poisoned Miroku had dispersed, as if they had sensed danger.
Miroku allowed his gaze to roam the area, the previous demonic aura that resonated had since deceased. As if they had been deflected, perhaps they sensed Kikyo's presence and been warded away? But that felt too good to be true. Though Souta may have lacked any spiritual power, he had learned to hone his senses; he was indeed correct, the humming sound of the wasps wings had grown quiet. The air was too still, it was too quiet, their incessant humming had stopped, like something was lingering nearby, watching them. "Your assumption is correct, but why could that be?" Miroku questioned.
Naraku observed the reunion of the couple curiously his eyes watching them, wondering if his eyes were deceiving him, whether he had stepped into the past. The young woman, the dark haired female whom InuYasha was currently embracing; her appearance was older, her complexion was paler, she was taller than Kagome. Her hair was longer, she was far more mature. But the resemblance was uncanny, as if he was looking at the same woman after several years had passed, her soul reborn. Her eyes were the same, the same dark brown orbs with passionate intensity, the same longing, yearning look Kagome wore. The same loyalty to InuYasha, the same devotion, running to his side, the same tenderness in her eyes. She was her spitting image, but older. What magic? What power? What wish had been made to allow this to happen? Souta had bore no children that could carry her legacy or carry her genes. The family line would end with him. He felt a sense of conflict "That girl, it cannot be, but her appearance is striking to that of Kagome, but that cannot be, she perished fifty years ago" Naraku reflected.
"Are you hurt Kaede?" Kikyo questioned, approaching her sister with concern, she saw no wounds visibly, nor did she see any blood. Kaede wasn't wincing nor was she limping either. Kaede shook her head solemnly, she was feeling much better to see Shippo again, the loneliness she felt at their separation was easing. He'd been very brave running from the wolves like that to bring them the jewel, he could have been killed. To gaze upon their friends faces was comforting, it was good to be back. Kikyo felt a wave of demonic aura hit her, her instincts screaming as a potent and wicked energy hit her out of nowhere, her body shuddering. She had never felt evil like this before, even with all the past enemies they had faced. The feeling of eyes watching her, someone lurking from the distance, an unsettling feeling she couldn't place, but one that haunted her. But underneath it remained the familiar aura of jewel shards, their potent essence piercing the wickedness. She turned, her gaze sharpening as she glared at the tree-line that led to the forest.
InuYasha saw the shift in her, the change in her expression, she had gone from visibly calm to tense in seconds, her body turning rigid against him. Was she sensing jewel shards or another enemy? She left the well, taking some steps forward, focusing her powers "Kikyo?" InuYasha questioned.
"I sense someone, a violent demonic aura, whoever they are they also possess jewel shards like us. Quite a few" she explained, they had malevolent intentions, ones she hoped she didn't see in person. Whoever they were they had been observing them for some time, most likely behind the manipulation of both Sesshoumaru's attack and now the wolves. They coveted the jewel shards they possessed for themselves, which they had failed to steal. InuYasha flinched, raising his eyebrow as his posture became defensive, someone was watching them, could it be Naraku? The only reason they had to have stopped was because of Kikyo's power. The same person who had instigated Sesshoumaru's attack and attempted theft of Tetsuigha, the same person who sent Royokan to attack them?
Miroku's gaze turned in the same direction as Kikyo's, he too could now sense the same demonic presence as her. Hiding in the shadows, intentionally avoiding being seen as to make a sneaky escape. The power was overwhelming, pure evil, wicked intent, like nothing he had ever felt before. InuYasha and Miroku headed into the woods, chasing after Naraku, wishing to get revenge for the suffering he had inflicted. He had caused them enough grief, he needed to pay for his actions.
Naraku attempted to escape, leaping into the trees and attempting to evade capture, he knew they would follow him, they couldn't deny their curiosity and desire for revenge against him. Their foolish human natures would mean they would rather chase him and follow him into danger than protect themselves. Their vendetta to make him suffer as they had was foolish, they were so easy to manipulate. They only had themselves to blame for being so gullible.
"Oh no you don't! You get back here!" InuYasha growled, leaping after Naraku with a bitter glare. He was the one who sent Sesshoumaru to attack them and nearly got Kikyo killed in the process. He had manipulated Sesshoumaru into fighting him, stealing their fathers sword temporarily and gravely injuring him, he'd given Sesshoumaru a human arm and a jewel shard, knowing he would be consumed by the human arm eventually. He'd gone to extensive lengths to tangle them all in his web and ensure that they all suffered in the long term. Shaming and manipulating Sesshoumaru, who wouldn't accept the humiliation he endured, he'd caused them all enough grief, he had led to enough mishaps and torment. Why was he picking fights with them? InuYasha leapt onto a branch near Naraku, glaring him down, growling lowly "You thought you could just sneak away? Like I wouldn't sniff you out?" he scoffed. He recognised his scent now, there was no way he would escape now, he would find him. Miroku appeared, bursting from the shrubbery, standing nearby and holding his ground. Despite the fear and anxiety in his heart, the determination to finally get revenge on the curse he inflicted on his family was greater. "I got him Miroku, he ain't escaping us" InuYasha stated. Shippo, Kaede, Souta and Kikyo followed after, bursting through the shrubbery, shippo still resting on Kaede's shoulder; Souta following after him swiftly.
Kikyo holding her ground, channeling her spiritual aura to her hands with a soft pink glow, glaring down Naraku. This person had been manipulating everything from the shadows, he sought the fragments they possessed but instead of stealing them himself he made others do his dirty work. He manipulated their vulnerabilities to make them do what he said. He was behind Sesshoumaru, he was behind the current attack while she was gone and she was willing to bet he was behind more than that.
InuYasha cracked his claws "Before I kill you, you wanna tell me what I ever did to you to inspire such a hostile grudge against me? I've never met you before in my life?!" He snapped. This guy had it out for him, he had some form of bitter resentment towards him and he wanted to know why. He'd never heard of Naraku until he met Miroku. But somehow he made himself involved in all of their lives.
Naraku chuckled, InuYasha was indeed vain, it had to be the demon in him "Grudge? You assume I of all people would hold a grudge against a weakling like yourself? I suppose your pride would never allow you peace unless you could find a reason" Naraku mocked. InuYasha presumed to know why he enacted his attacks, he presumed to assume he hated him. He was as foolish as everyone else he had met.
Souta stepped forward, something about this man was off-putting, a feeling of nostalgia hit him, like he'd seen him somewhere before, he was strangely familiar. The way this man knew the village, the way he was able to manoeuvre the woods so efficiently was proof of that. He followed them, he was familiar, meaning he'd been here before. "You? Who are you to plague this village and scheme against InuYasha so vehemently?" Souta questioned. He held a personal grudge against InuYasha, whether he wanted to admit it or not. That was something he couldn't deny.
Naraku blinked, confusion briefly forming on his face, it couldn't be. He had assured that the Higurashi line was erased, that their lineage wouldn't surpass generations. But he recognised that face, he was older, his black hair had aged and turned pure white and grey. His youthful childish appearance had matured from a teenager, to a young man to an elderly adult. His whimpering, crybaby voice had changed into a weary, wisened tone; the same coward who had lingered by his sister pathetically, the only child who lacked any power from his bloodline. How was he alive? He had procured no offspring, nobody to follow after him, he'd lived in isolation for years, but he had survived. "Well well Souta, it appears your uselessness prevails. Not only did you never inherit the spiritual essence of your pathetically weak grandfather, you couldn't even muster any to rival your beloved older sister. You were just a crybaby weakling, now you've become a withered old troll with no potential" Naraku mocked.
Souta stiffened, a sense of confusion and fear filling him, this man not only knew of him but he knew of his family. He knew he lacked any spiritual power but he knew of his bloodline. "How do you know me, do you by chance know of Onigumo? Are you the same soul my sister nursed all those years ago?". His sister had volunteered to tend to the medical care of many villagers, though it often intervened with her studies, she somehow managed to balance it. This demon couldn't be the same man his sister had attempted to nurse back to health, kindly tending to his wounds while he leered over her.
"Onigumo? My that is a name I haven't heard in centuries. I am not the being known as Onigumo, that name has faded into irrelevance. But it is true, my soul was forged from the being known as Onigumo. Onigumo was a foolish and deluded fool who lusted for the shrine maiden known as Kagome. But in his vulnerable and pathetic state he summoned the aid of demons" Naraku cackled.
Kagome knelt by Onigumo patiently, collecting her medicine and bandages, smiling warmly at him. She knew he had a criminal past which he had since discarded but that didn't mean he didn't deserve care and comfort. He was no harm to anyone now and he deserved to die in peace. "There, that should feel better now, you just get plenty of rest and I'll be back tomorrow". She still had a lot of work to do, many villagers would need her assistance and she needed to return to the temple. Kagome got to her knees, patting herself down as she gathered her healing tools to return to her hut to see her family
Onigumo watched Kagome leave with intense eyes, his gaze roaming across her curves, her ample bosom, her soft curly black hair, her intense brown eyes. She was blossoming quickly, growing into her powers and her beauty, Kagome was the youngest priestess this village had known, but she was skilled and a fast learner. She was very popular among the village for her looks, she had drawn the attention of the half breed InuYasha, but also the prince of the eastern wolf tribe. Both of them arguing over her. As he watched her leave, laying alone in the darkness he sighed to himself, muttering of her loveliness, her beauty and how he would love to watch her suffer. There was the sound of cracking, the sound of claws on stones, wondering if he was imagining things or if someone was watching from the darkness. Insects crawling towards Onigumo curiously, the image of a spider demon crawling towards him.
Suddenly, hoards of various demons loomed over him, their glowing eyes leering at him, their jaws wide with wicked smiles. He had a wish, something he desired, this need ached within him and they heard his cries. They would give him his wish but it would come at a price. "We heard your call, you have summoned us, your wickedness stinks the air like poison, what is it you wish for?" they questioned.
Onigumo smirked wickedly "My soul is rotten to the core, there is no redemption for someone like myself. Perhaps if the likes of you can feed upon my flesh and find some use of it. I may possess a body, capable of claiming the jewel for myself. And the lovely shrine maiden Kagome may finally be mine" he cackled. He had no purity, no goodness in him, he was corrupt as could be, which would feed them well. Whether it was through wicked means, he would gain the jewels power and claim Kagome for himself. The demons sank their fangs into his flesh, pouring into his body in droves, filling him with demonic power, their laughter filling the cave. "Give me the power I seek, I wish to make Lady Kagome mine" he growled.
Naraku smirked "That is how droves of demons became one superior demon, creating the body I now possess took countless demons. Due to the lady Kagome being a novice to her descended calling as a priestess, it was easy to overpower her. Her instability due to her emotions and falling for a useless DaiYokai Half breed, she was too easy to kill" he grinned. Kagome hadn't been a student long, as she had started training as soon as she turned fourteen but had lived in the temple nearly all her life. She showed no interest in it until her grandfather pressed into her the responsibility of it. She soon took up the mantle begrudgingly due to her powers and knowing nobody else could follow after him. She lacked the experience of more professional priestesses and her own emotional instability meant she took longer to train. Her selfish desire for a normal life overweighed her responsibilities.
InuYasha glared, Kagome was a teenager, she was studying to learn of her power and capabilities, but she wanted to be able to have a life of her own too. She was always studying, always praying, always at the temple, always tending to villagers. She never had a moment of peace and people were always relying on her. She wanted a normal life but knew she would never have one. She worried of her potential and the legacy she would be leaving behind. She was quick to anger but she was also a crybaby, her insecurities would have made it easy for her to become corrupt, Naraku taking advantage of them. Kagome's father had died when she was small, leaving her mother to raise Kagome and her brother by herself. She was a homemaker and often worked the fields for better income. Their grandfather babysat when she wasn't home but due to his frail health often struggled himself. Kagome became the breadwinner as soon as she came of age.
"The longer she spent with you InuYasha the more she strayed from her path, the less she desired to become a priestess as her family expected of her. Her heart wavered and she yearned for love. She wanted to waste the power of the jewel on childish dreams and was punished for it. But her immaturity truly showed by how she so easily turned on you" Naraku mocked. Kagome's desire for love, her desire to stray from the path expected of her warped her powers and weakened her. Knowing she no longer wanted to be a priestess, meaning her powers wavered. Her wish to the jewel would have been to get rid of her powers, tainting her soul and the jewel. How she doubted him, how she hated him, turned on him for what he did, it was so easy.
InuYasha glared, the person who had turned Kagome and InuYasha against each other had been him, the person who had slaughtered Souta's family was Naraku. The one that left him an orphan and traumatised him, the one who caused his mental and emotional wounds. The one that killed Kagome, her mother and grandpa had been Naraku, expecting to wipe out their bloodline but Souta unexpectedly survived. But he was the only one with no power, so Naraku let him live seeing him as no threat. He could never enact revenge for what happened, he could never hope to defeat Naraku. Kagome died hating him because she believed the person she loved and trusted had betrayed her, her whole world ripped from under her in seconds. Her life was destroyed, unable to go back and unable to save her family.
Souta's eyes widened, shock and horror filled his features, everything he knew was wrong. That night his family believed InuYasha entered their home and wounded his sister and attacked them. This demon Naraku had taken on InuYasha's face, harbouring shapeshifting abilities and using that to his advantage. This demon had hunted down his family, pretended to be his sisters lover and killed them all. Killing his ailing grandpa, beloved mother and loyal sister, victimising InuYasha because he was an outsider and a demon. He only survived by luck, crushed by an object and not fatally wounded.
InuYasha's claws swiped at Kagome aggressively, ripping through her robe sleeve, blood spilling onto her clothes and the ground. A shriek of pain escaped her lips, agony pouring through her, the shock wearing off as reality sank down upon her. The sound of crashing, clattering and damage echoing around her, sound becoming distant. Kagome staggered backwards, gripping her shoulder and wailing in pain, hoping the bleeding would stop, that someone would come. Curling up on the floor as she hugged herself in pain, tears of pain, confusion, anger and sadness filling her eyes. Trying to control her breathing as she attempted to calm herself and ignore the pain shooting through her. Staring in horror at the bodies of her grandfather, brother and mother laid around her. "Inu... InuYasha? Why... why would you do this?" she sobbed, she thought he loved her.
InuYasha cracked his knuckles, scoffing in amusement "You foolish girl, did you really think someone as pathetic as you could ever change me? You were so gullible, it was so easy to get you to fall for me. So long as I earned your trust, I could snatch the jewel from right under you" he mocked.
Kagome's eyes widened, anger filling them, glaring back at him as she clutched her wounded arm. She had believed he was different from other demons, that he was capable of good. That the human in him would give him a soul, a different perspective. But it wasn't enough, he was as empty and wicked as other demons. She had been such a fool, deluded that he could ever care for her, that he could ever be trusted. She had allowed her naivety to get the better of her. "I... I believed in you, you weren't like other demons... I told you... I told you everything" she spat.
InuYasha knelt to her level, clasping her face to forcefully look at him, leering at her with a malicious smile, watching the tears spill down her cheeks. "So weak, all I had to do was play with that heart of yours and you let me in, humans are so pathetic". Kagome's eyes stung with tears, her eyes becoming glassy and the vision of InuYasha became blurred, tears spilling down her cheeks. If she had accepted Hojo's confession her family would still be alive, if she accepted Kouga's confession her family would have been protected. She had made the worst mistake of her life and the consequences were in front of her. She had loved him, she had wanted to spend her life with him, trusted him like nobody else and he did this to her. "I'll be using the jewel for better means, thanks for letting me have it" he grinned, all he had to do was take it from the temple and she couldn't stop him. Dropping her face and leaving her on the floor of the hut as he turned to leave.
InuYasha's expression darkened into pure rage, his hands trembling as his eyes became demonic slits, Kagome had died alone and frightened. Crawling from her families hut to find him, hunt him down and make him pay for her loss and grief. Naraku had entered her home, tricked her and killed everyone she loved. Growling under his breath, feeling himself shaking with anger. "You... you slaughtered Souta's family, you killed Kagome".
Kikyo's face paled, sadness, empathy and anger filling her, now it all made sense, now she knew why Kagome hated InuYasha. Naraku knew of their bond, he knew of Kagome's kindness and her good will. He had taken everything Kagome loved and made her doubt InuYasha, watching her crumble. Kagome had loved InuYasha, but her love for him had been warped and manipulated by Naraku. Taking advantage of her naivety and inexperience as a priestess and using a disguise to lure her in. Then he killed her family and wore the face of the man she loved to hurt her further. She could only imagine the pain InuYasha was feeling in that moment. She shared Kagome's soul, she could sense her sadness, her emotions, she had dreams in which she relived Kagome's past.
"Tell me InuYasha, if you and Kagome cared so much for each other, why was it so easy to destroy that trust?" he mocked, if he claimed to love Kagome, if she was someone precious to him. How is it that just by creating lies and formulating attacks, how had Kagome could to hate him.
"What?" InuYasha snapped
"Come now, with how often you and Kagome argued to not seeing eye to eye, setting you against each other using fragility was easy. So long as Kagome was indecisive, leading her astray came easily. The legacy I left was knowing she died hating you. But what baffles me is instead of using the Jewel's power to save her own life and leave Souta an orphan, why she chose to die" he muttered. Kagome had always been stubborn, hot headed and impulsive, far too similar to InuYasha himself which is why they clashed. This made it all too easy to sway her into despising him. Her inability to choose between the local village boy Hojo, the wolf prince Kouga or InuYasha was proof of her indecisiveness. In her dying moments she would have been left reflecting on what could have been if she chose another man. But instead of giving herself that second chance, she chose to sacrifice her life.
InuYasha glared, he had planned on Kagome using the jewel for corrupt means, hoping her sadness and trauma would cause her to make a wish. This demon was truly corrupt and malicious. He had cursed and tormented so many people for his amusement, watching them all crumble into the worst version of themselves. He had cursed Miroku's family with the wind tunnel, leading to their slow and miserable demise at the wind tunnel. However, despite his perversions, Miroku remained good hearted, wise and patient. He had chosen Kagome's family, killed them in front of her before making sure she died alone, slowly and painfully, using his face. Making sure Kagome knew she was alone in the world and the man she loved had taken everything from her. Little did he know her reincarnation was standing before him, even more powerful than Kagome. Kagome's tormented soul was reborn stronger than ever and ready to defeat him. "Kikyo, can you sense the shards, how many are there?" he questioned.
Kikyo focused her gaze on Naraku, a soft glow emitting from him, the pure lights of the jewel formed, but they were slowly becoming corrupt by Naraku's evil. The longer he had a hold of them the more he warped its purity. "Its a cluster, I can't accurately depict how many, but I would estimate around twenty" Kikyo stated. No wonder he was becoming so powerful, his already formidable power was increased by the power of the shards he held.
InuYasha cracked his knuckles, sharpening his claws as he glared down Naraku bitterly, he couldn't be allowed to keep the jewels. Someone as wicked as him would just corrupt them and the world along with it. However long Kagome had spent purifying the jewel, it had all gone to waste as soon as Naraku got ahold of it. Kikyo was the only person capable of purifying it now. "For what you've done, I'll show you what tainted looks like, when I bleed you dry" InuYasha growled. Naraku leapt into the air, escaping the Inu-Hanyou immediately, sensing the blood rage in InuYasha, he was intent on killing him. Sensing the danger he was in, it was time to make his escape, he had stayed too long. InuYasha swiftly followed after him, like hell he was going to let him slip through his fingers now that he knew the truth.
"InuYasha!" Kikyo protested, he was already wounded, the injury from his previous battle hadn't fully healed. With how strong Naraku was, going against him would prove fatal. She understood his rage but he wasn't thinking rationally.
"Don't do anything reckless!" Miroku called after him, he too harboured rage and resentment towards Naraku but this would achieve nothing. All he was doing was playing into Naraku's hands. Naraku knew that his words would hurt InuYasha, making him emotional and blinding his senses.
"Iron Reaver Soul Stealer" InuYasha yelled, slicing through Naraku's baboon pelt, ripping it to pieces and revealing his appearance. He would rip him to pieces for what he'd done, hoping he could inflict some semblance of pain onto him. InuYasha's eyes widened as they fell upon Naraku's true form, seeing a young man with black waist length hair, reddish brown eyes and pale skin.
Kikyo's eyes widened, a gasp of horror escaping her lips, her eyes had to be deceiving her. The same man who had offered her flowers and kind words earlier was now attempting to escape InuYasha's attack. Why did he strongly resemble Kagewaki? Was he perhaps a descendant? Did they share the same bloodline? Had his ancestors been bandits or samurai? "It can't be?" Kaede protested. Naraku smirked, how foolish he was, did he think this would deter him? InuYasha had never faced him before, he knew nothing of his powers or capabilities. He was no match for him. Miasma pouring from his body, InuYasha covered his mouth to protect himself from inhaling any, the surrounding forest being tainted and killed by the miasma. Kikyo panicked, summoning her spiritual energy to form a barrier, shielding them from the attack, if they so much as breathed this in they would be done for.
Miroku aiding her to increase the barriers potency, they weren't safe here and the barrier would only protect them to an extent. Naraku was trying to ward them away and it was working. "Lady Kikyo, we must escape now" Miroku protested, leading himself, Kikyo and the others away from the damage of the miasma. He knew she was scared, he knew she was worried about InuYasha but they would only be risking their lives needlessly.
"InuYasha!" Kikyo called in a panic, worried of whether he was harmed, reaching out desperately, her eyes searching the miasma for any sign of him. The fear of him choking on Naraku's poison, no matter how strong InuYasha was, even with the robe of the fire rat. He couldn't evade such potent demonic energy with corrosive components. He wasn't fully healed either, he would be harmed by the poison, just as he had Sesshoumaru's claws.
Naraku chuckled, InuYasha was so willing to prove himself in battle he chose to hunt him down at the risk of his life. This would prove to be his end "You've fallen prey to my Miasma, it will consume you, you'll be eroded in seconds" he mocked. He would die before his friends and the woman he loved, knowing he was responsible for it all.
InuYasha growled, allowing his hands to fall to the sheath of Tetsuigha, trusting the power of the blade. Kikyo, Miroku, Shippo and Kaede would all be among that smog, choking. He wouldn't lose anyone else, he wouldn't watch more people he cared about perish at the hands of this demon. Drawing it and using its potent demonic energy to clear the miasma, cleaning the air. Naraku observed from a distance, he hadn't expected InuYasha to be capable of such a thing, let alone wield a weapon like this. He knew Sesshoumaru coveted this blade, but he didn't know InuYasha had become knowledgable of its potential. The blade was forged from the fang of Touga, the InuDaiYokai general, a truly formidable demon stronger than himself. A blade of such calibre was made to slay demons including himself. He slowly began to walk into the distance, abandoning them to his miasma.
InuYasha leapt at Naraku, if he thought he was going to escape he was mistaken, not after all the damage he had inflicted. To run away with his tail between his legs was too good for him. Swiping with the Tetsuigha to slash at Naraku, destroying his clothing, shredding it to reveal a spider burn mark on his back. Naraku barely flinched, only showing irritability at InuYasha's actions. Naraku then vanished in a cloud of miasma, causing the residual clouds to vanish along with him. InuYasha cursed under his breath, returning Tetsuigha to it's sheath, he'd managed to annoy Naraku but he'd done no critical damage to him. "Damn it all, he got away" he growled, he had escaped, the man who had killed Kagome, killed her family, cursed them all had evaded them. "Come back and fight you coward!" he snarled.
Souta watched InuYasha's tantrum with patient eyes, relieved they had escaped Naraku's attack. But he understood InuYasha's anger and frustration, but what good would it do now? "Miroku, did my eyes deceive me or did he have a spider burn mark on his back" Souta questioned.
"No Lord Souta, your eyes didn't deceive you, I saw it too" Miroku confirmed, Naraku's signature mark lingered on his flesh. A way to recognise him.
Souta sighed wearily "The thief my sister nursed back to health was inflicted with terrible burns, he remembered my sister and was the cause of her death, as well as my grandfather and mother. Though he is their murderer it doesn't align with them being the same person" he reflected. It raised new questions, new suspicions though it did answer some questions, but like a spider the web just kept growing. Leading them further down the rabbit hole.
"The only thing we have to go on are Naraku's stories and the burn mark, for all we know he could have just been tormenting us" Miroku stated. Naraku enjoyed tormenting and manipulating people, he enjoyed preying on their weaknesses and sadness. He could have easily known the true perpetrator and merely took credit.
"My head! Get it out! Please!" Royokan whimpered, he could feel them gnawing at his brain, splitting it apart. The power of the jewel radiated from his head, now that Naraku was gone, he had some of his sanity returned, but the jewel shards in his head were corrupting him. He could still feel Naraku's influence. He wanted to go back to the peace of the forest, the quiet of his cave.
"What do we do with him?" Souta questioned, though he had harmed no villagers what was to say he wouldn't again? He had attacked InuYasha and the rest of them, he had posed a serious threat and could be an enemy to them. It was best to be cautious of his actions.
"He started the fight and now he's being cowardly enough to create excuses?" InuYasha scoffed, he had come close to killing all of them, using his droves of wolves to hunt them. He had nearly crushed him in the hut, sent them after Shippo and the others, why be merciful?
"We know Naraku had jewel shards, perhaps he was being controlled by them" Miroku suggested, Naraku could have been manipulating him from the beginning. Using the shards to corrupt him and use him as a puppet. His sudden change in power and now behaviour would make sense.
Kikyo hesitated, she didn't wish to get too close in case it was a threat, in case this was a facade and he was trying to lure them closer. But she sensed no wicked intentions from the panther demon, but she could sense jewel shards. They were gleaming brightly in his fur, she approached cautiously, reaching out her hand to the embedded shards in Royokan's head. Her powers turning them from a warped tainted hue to a pure pink, her purification powers evading Naraku's evil. She gently wedged the shards from Royokan's head, placing them into her hand.
Royokan sighed in relief, his larger wolf form growing smaller and smaller until he appeared to be a panther, large eyes in a giant head, a humanoid looking animal. He gripped his head, his head no longer feeling as though it was splitting in two, his own thoughts returned to him. He had no idea of whom this girl was, but she had greatly done him a favour, she had not only removed the shards but purified them. "My gratitude, those shards warped my brain, I had no control. I felt like my head was splitting apart, all I can remember is something telling me to go after InuYasha" he pressed. Kikyo softened, Naraku's wickedness knew no limits, corrupting a harmless demon to his own gain. The pain of the jewel in his head, the power of it stripping away his free will. She could imagine how scared he was, how confused he was. He bowed respectfully towards her before escaping into the woods, abandoning the village as soon as he had appeared.
"What an odd fellow" Souta reflected, he had expected him to be a lot worse, but his real personality was timid, polite and friendly. He was a reserved forest guardian and had come here against his will.
"Indeed, but we know that Naraku was corrupting him, meaning the attack was Naraku's plot all along" Miroku confirmed, he had taken an innocent demon and used them as a puppet. But at least Royokan was now in peace. Kikyo turned to see InuYasha perched in a tree, overlooking where Naraku had escaped, her eyes softened, filling with concern for him. InuYasha already had many burdens and trauma's from all the hardships in life. But this was a fresh wound, this was newfound information for him to process. To learn that this demon had taken his form, intentionally hunted down Kagome and caused her demise, he was enduring heartache all over again. Knowing why her spirit was so angry.
InuYasha perched in the tree, conflict filling him as he reflected upon Naraku's words, Kagome had been resurrected from the dead believing that InuYasha was her enemy. But in fact the person that caused her such pain was Naraku. Kagome had been manipulated, Naraku had known who she was, he must have learned of her somehow before his formation as a demon. Forming into his appearance to trick her and then killed her entire family, meaning he had been following him to learn about him. But more so, instead of using the jewel to preserve her own life, to bring her family back from the dead, she chose to die, she chose to give up her life and take the jewel with her to the afterlife. She couldn't bear to live in a world without her family, she couldn't consider a future where they didn't exist. Her depression and unhappiness consuming her, she would have followed her family into death.
Kikyo observed him calmly, she had never felt such sadness from him before, the aching silence. "Kagome never considered using the potential of the jewel's power to save her family, she never even questioned using it to preserve her own life. She chose to die to follow InuYasha into the afterlife" she reflected. She would never allow herself to be corrupted by the jewel, she would never use its power for wicked means. InuYasha sensed Kikyo nearby, her tender gaze watching him from the ground below.
