Canary: Crying

Yamato Takato was many things: the current head of the Yamato clan, a father of two, renown shaman who served the community. Now, he could add conspirator and criminal accessory to his resume—not that it was something that he was proud of. While Yamato did not directly get his hands dirty by participating in the infiltration of Asakura manor and nabbing the girl, he knew that he was just as responsible as the others. Not only did he send Yohmei on a goose chase to the home of a shaman family far from both Yamato and Asakura manor, but he also instructed his own daughter to assist in the crime by putting the occupants of Asamura manor in a deep sleep.

Yamato sat in another collaborator's designated conference room as he and others awaited their accomplices' return. The moment that his spying Shikigami showed him that Yohmei changed his route to head for the fabricated meeting, Yamato's heartbeat became irregular. It was as exhilarating as it was frightening. He was almost unable to contain the adrenaline that he felt knowing that he had a hand in this scheme.

From the very beginning, he knew that he was taking part in multiple crimes at once.

But the thunderous, somewhat clumsy stomps of his approaching accomplices silenced his pounding heart. The double doors slid apart, revealing the faces of the shaman heads, faintly illuminated by the soft glow of wall sconces. The assembly scrambled through the entrance, the last of them was the middle-aged Kotobuki Rei, who had their target slung over his shoulder.

Like moths to a flame, the moment that Kagome was placed on the middle of the floor, the congregation swarmed around her. Even Yamato peered through the gap in the bodies to take in her face.

It was then that the reality of their actions and intentions sank in.

Higurashi Kagome's face was unresponsive and unstirring, even amongst the cacophony of remarks and jeers.

Despite the unsettling aura that she carried about her, Kagome appeared to be just a girl.

The same age as his beloved Tsubaki.

Higurashi Kagome, the enigmatic figure that casts a shadow of uncertainty and fear amongst Japan's shaman community, was just as Asakura Yohmei has said.

She was but a child.

A woman in the crowd vocalized Yamato's thoughts, "She looks like an ordinary girl."

"She does, but I can feel it," A masculine voice rebutted. "Her power is too dangerous to be left unchecked."

"We should dispose of her before she awakens," Another voice echoed a muted alarm.

Yamato scowled and pushed his way to the front of the crowd. He knelt down beside Kagome and reached to feel and scope the crimson garment in her clutches. "And what is this?" He questioned. "The fabric itself carries a demonic aura."

"Not sure," Rei responded while scratching his head. "She was holding on tight to it since we came and she hasn't let go since."

"Tch, what does it matter?" Morino Yoshino scoffed. "We'll burn it with her body. No evidence."

"Good idea," another shaman head replied. "Now how should we do this?"

Yamato quickly spoke up as he stared at Kagome's voice with a scowl, "Something painless. This is an innocent child after all."

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

Kagome's arms were crossed and her face contorted with concentration. "Okay, with my other half gone, she took all of the knowledge about dimension travel with her." She sighed and spun around on her heel.

Just as she expected, there was still nothing but pitch blackness around her.

The priestess settled for sitting amongst the empty space. She pulled her knees close to her chest and rested her head there. "...how am I supposed to get back? I can't get a read on my body because my soul is here."

When she sought out Yoh's aura, something felt off.

It was as if he had gone somewhere far away, where her voice couldn't reach him.

"What's happening over there?" She wondered before sighing. "I'm not sure how but...I feel like my body isn't close enough to anyone's auras. Maybe I was moved to a hospital?"

Suddenly, her head snapped up as she sensed something akin to static shock. Kagome looked over her shoulder, "Sesshomaru, you found me. But how?" She promptly got up to properly greet her partner.

"It took longer than expected," He answered, "But your aura is unmistakable."

Kagome smiled and nodded, "Thanks for coming. I don't know how to find my way back to my body."

"Dimensional travel is not linear in nature," Sesshomaru stated bluntly.

The priestess' expression fell somewhat, "Yeah, I know. So going back the way you came wouldn't do anything."

"Your body is but a flesh suit now, you'll need to use someone else's soul as a beacon," the demon told her.

"I've been trying but something is off," Kagome responded. "I guess let's just walk for now." With no more need for words, Sesshomaru fell silent as the priestess took the lead. He followed close behind, both of their eyes focused on spotting a door.

For a few minutes, they walked in silence until a thought struck the girl. "So, Sesshomaru," Kagome spoke to her partner. "How long have you known?"

"...about the original world," The demon briefly clarified. "I recalled when we met."

"Heeeeh?" Kagome breathed in awe. "That's impressive," she remarked. "Hm," she briefly looked at him from over her shoulder with curiosity. "You said that you knew of the original world from the beginning. So the other worlds...it took a while for you to remember them?"

"Hn," Was Sesshomaru's affirmative answer.

Kagome almost shook her head at her partner's conversational skills. "...I met Inuyasha," She said softly as she smiled fondly down at the garment in her arms. "Apparently, he hasn't shown up again because he didn't have a reason to be reborn, no regrets." She didn't expect Sesshomaru to ask her where she was going with this line of thought so she continued. "So I'm wondering if you have a reason to be here, even after all of these failed worlds."

"Do not classify me with you humans and Inuyasha," Sesshomaru stated coolly as his eyes remained diligent. "I am not motivated by wish-fulfillment. I am merely content with existing as I am."

"I see," Kagome whispered. 'That makes sense, I guess. But I wonder…' She stole another glance at Sesshomaru's impassive face.

Feeling her eyes on him, the demon met her gaze, "You have more questions."

It was then that the priestess smiled and slowed her pace until she matched Sesshomaru's floating. "Just one more," She admitted bubbly. "How would you feel if I began calling you Onii-san again~?" Kagome snickered when Sesshomaru eyed her with mild vexation. "What's with that look, Onii-san?" she queried with faux confusion.

"That title is inappropriate," Sesshomaru pointed out. "Unless you still consider yourself my little brother's mate."

Kagome scratched her cheek, chucking to herself, "I guess that's a no-go then."

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

This was it. Tsubaki relished this feeling: the knowledge that her plan was coming together swimmingly. The wintry blast against the nape of her neck was refreshing as she rode a top of Spirit of Fire's hand, right beside Hao. Soon, she would have everything that she ever wanted. She just needed her beloved Hao-sama to play his role in the final act. 'Clarity,' She mentally reminded herself. It was the sole word that she forced herself to think when in Hao's presence.

The last thing that she needed was his Reishi picking up on her true intentions.

Hao's innocuous voice snapped Tsubaki from her thoughts as he smiled at her, "Meditating at a time like this~?"

The priestess' cheeks turned pink as she averted her eyes, "I-I have to steel myself for what's to come, Hao-sama." Luckily, she was able to spot the distinctive ancient Japanese architecture as they flew within distance of the manor that held Kagome captive. She lifted a curved finger and weakly pointed, "Look there, Hao-sama. That's where Kagome-sama was taken. We must make haste."

Hao's smile then widened insidiously, "Not a worry. I can hear their thoughts from here. They can sense our approach. I actually look forward to the welcoming party."

As the giant spirit drew nearer, true to Hao's words, Tsubaki spotted a crowd of bodies clambering out of the main entrance. She took a swift head count and informed, "Hao-sama, this is about a third of them."

The Spirit of Fire landed before the small crowd as Hao greeted, "Good evening, everyone. I heard that the lot of you have been very naughty."

"Tsu-Tsubaki-chan, what are you doing with Asakura Hao?!" A woman gasped before throwing her hands over her mouth. Unlike her usual persona, Tsubaki didn't shrink away with shame. Instead, the usual demure smile on her face was a small but crooked smirk.

"She's obviously a spy!" Rei's guardian spirit, Nobunaga Oda, appeared beside his partner. Rei made grandiose, outraged arm gestures as he barked, "More importantly, the rumors are true! Higurashi Kagome is someone important to you, Asakura Hao!"

"No matter how powerful you are, you'll never get past all of us!" Another shaman dared to take a step forward, "Asakura Hao, if you wish to see her again, surrender!"

Hao's face was the picture of the calm before the storm as he queried, "Care to repeat that again?"

The remaining shamans who guarded the entrance summoned their spirits.

"Surrender now if you want Higurashi Kagome to live!"

That was when Hao's closed-eyed smile faded. His eyes opened, revealing malice in its purest form. He looked down at them with repugnance. "Frankly, I'm floored," Tsubaki almost shivered when his pitch lowered an octave. "Such impertinence to assume you could best me…"

Hao's wrath was like a wildfire raging at midnight.

"How small."

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

'A beacon!' Kagome gasped and halted mid-step. Her eyes widened as she thought, 'I found it! But why him?! Why now?!' She looked at Sesshomaru from over her shoulder. "I sense a path back to my body!"

"Let us go," Her partner instructed.

"Wait." The girl's hand raised in a halting motion. "It's… It's Hao," Kagome informed. Despite Sesshomaru's expression staying relatively neutral, she noticed the subtle narrowing of his eyes. "But let's not jump to assumptions. Let me talk to him."

"Better you than I," Sesshomaru concluded.

Kagome nodded and half smiled, "Thank you. This world is our last chance. So it has to be me." She then veered towards where she felt the connection. As if she was stranded on a desolate road on a moonless night, there was still empty blackness before her. Her only guide to visual perception was a faint glimmer off in the distance, a speck of glitter in the void.

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

It was a night of uncertainty. As Kagome and Sesshomaru ventured through the darkest recesses of reality, Yoh too was undergoing his own trial through darkness. It was only the first night and the depths of Yomi Cave were already stirring his instincts. Despite his shamanistic abilities, his body was still purely human. His eyes relied on light for vision. But inside this cave with nothing but his clothing, Yoh couldn't rely on that basic ability.

And he didn't know if it was just his imagination playing tricks on him already but Yoh could have sworn that he heard Kagome calling out to him. Afterward, he had an incessant feeling that Kagome needed him.

But alas, he had to press forward.

Kagome would be alright, he tried to assure himself.

She had his grandfather and all of their friends.

That, and she was Higurashi Kagome.

Things would work out because she was determined.

And he could tell…that Kagome's heart compelled her down a thorny path.

So he had to get stronger so that he could stand by her side.

He had to be strong enough for her to lean on him when she needed to.

So Yoh couldn't allow the cave to overcome him.

Simultaneously, Ren was restless in bed. His golden eyes reflected the blue light of his phone screen. Even when Kagome first left to return to the Asakura residence, he didn't have this sinking feeling. Back then, he had at least had the solace that was several messages from Kagome throughout the day and well into the night. She didn't have a clue how her random emails made his entire day.

And in retrospect, neither did he.

The night before Kagome and the crew departed to Izumo, Ren instructed her to keep him updated on when she got on the train and when she arrived. The moment that he hit the send button, he felt instant regret in realizing that he must sound overbearing, or like a helicopter parent. But a few seconds later, the priestess responded with her chibi avatar wearing a cattish smile accompanied by the text, "Awww, Renny. Are you worried about me~?"

His cheeks burned as he glared at the screen, but before he could rebuttal, Kagome swiftly followed up with another message. This time her avatar was giving a thumbs-up, "Alright! I'll keep you posted."

Ren's face began cooling as he thumbed out a simple, "Thank you."

But he paused before sending this time.

He silently stared at those words before placing his thumb on the backspace and holding it till the characters were erased. In their place, he typed out, "You better."

Ren slept well that night. And despite the way he glared at HoroHoro's teasing face and shook his head at Jun's prying, Ren was actually over the moon when Kagome made good on her words. And how their correspondence didn't end after her announcement that she was on the train elated him to a level of happiness he never felt before.

So when it suddenly ended and didn't pick up again, Ren went from standing at the top of the world to plummeting to its bowels.

But he had to keep calm.

Ren couldn't allow his unease to overtake him.

And at the same time, Bankotsu sat on top of his house's roof. The sky was clear and the full moon softly illuminated the area. His new home was just on Tokyo's outskirts, closer to Higurashi shrine than Kagome knew. Even that small distance between here and downtown Tokyo eliminated a small amount of the pollution that obscured the stars to city residents. It certainly wasn't as starry as he was told the countryside was, but it was still enough to put a feeling of distance between him and the city.

Bankotsu silently cursed himself for not butting into Kagome's trip to Izumo. She told him that she and other friends would be accompanying Yoh for some time back in his hometown. And when he first heard, the sparkle in her eyes made him break into an inevitable grin. Kagome was practically glowing from the prospect of seeing where Yoh grew up. And even though Yoh was a romantic rival, Bankotsu found himself feeling grateful to see Kagome so happy.

The smiling, laughing, and joking Kagome still felt like a dream after witnessing her at her lowest in the past. It was his dream come true.

At least, that used to be his dream for the longest time since he lost track of her.

But as if by fate, they were brought together again by the Shaman Fights in Tokyo.

'My dream, huh…?' Bankotsu thought as he stared down at his palm. His entire reason for entering the Shaman Fights wasn't altruistic. It was merely to test his strength against strong opponents. And he thought if he became Shaman King, he'd use his powers to find Kagome and win her over. But now he realized that it wasn't so simple.

Even if he did win it all and became Shaman King, Kagome forged bonds deeper than the one between them.

Or rather—.

Bankotsu flexed his fingers. These used to be the hands of a ruthless killer. There were scarily significant gaps in his memory, but he did remember the original world. In that world, he lived the life of a mercenary who claimed countless lives, and happily did so. In that world, he and Kagome were enemies. But now…

Even with the memories that he lost, Bankotsu was certain that he could never think of Kagome that way. Even knowing that Asakura Yoh was the one who held her love across timelines, Bankotsu was certain that he wanted to stay by her side. There was a high chance that his dream of someday calling Kagome his wife wouldn't come true, he wasn't blind to that.

Despite that, he would at least make good on his devotion.

And maybe if he did, she would look past who they were in that first world and see him as he was now. 'So you're gone now, huh…?' He thought as if Kagome's other half could hear his heart. 'I know you can't hear me anymore, but no matter what happens, I'll be on her side.'

So what if Yoh saved her worlds ago?

So what if Kagome fell for Ren many millennia ago?

So what if Kagome promised Hao an answer?

Bankotsu couldn't allow the past to triumph over him.

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

And Hao wouldn't allow such small existences to harm Kagome. It was almost a pity that they didn't seem to recognize who they were standing against. Without a single word, the Spirit of Fire took action. Eyes widened and all froze in fear as its giant palm reached for their guardian spirits. Within seconds, spirits fruitlessly squirmed and struggled against the Spirit of Fire's iron grasps. "Nobunaga, what do you think you're doing?!" Rei shouted up to his guardian. He held up his clan's heirloom katana, "Break free so we can—!"

"W-What do you think you're doing!?" Another shaman cried out at Hao's delighted face. "S-Set them free and fight like a true shaman!"

The Asakura didn't answer nor bat an eyelash. His smile merely widened and eyes narrowed as the Spirit of Fire dangled the handful of spirits over its mouth. The spirits wailed and reached for their partners even as they descended into the greater spirit's gull.

Spirit of Fire's maw hut around them, but made no further motions.

The human spirits were polished off like morsels.

"You see, Spirit of Fire gets a little cranky when he's hungry," Hao explained casually as he patted the giant's palm with affection. "And since you're making him do extra work, you might as well compensate by offering him a little snack."

"M-Monsters!" Rei choked out as his body remained rooted in place, unable to decide between fight or flight. "Both you and that inhuman spirit of yours!"

"Monsters, are we?" Hao laughed heartily from his seat on Spirit of Fire's free hand. His smile was one of entertainment as he responded, "That's quite the boomerang remark."

Tsubaki then looked towards her master with concerned eyes, "Hao-sama, allow me to retrieve Kagome-sama. Who knows what's being done to her as we speak?" 'Clarity,' she reminded herself as Spirit of Fire's hand lowered them to the ground, just a few meters away from the unarmed shamans.

With Hao behind her and the adults all but quaking as she walked towards them, Tsubaki finally found it—the empowerment that she sought since childhood. The priestess' head was high and her lips curved upward as she nudged past Rei. She only paused when his firm grip clasped on her forearm, "Hey." His seething baritone didn't daunt her. "Where do you think you're going?"

Repulsed by the feel of his skin, she yanked her arm away and whipped around to glare up at the man. "Rei…" His anger faltered at her informality. "You should know by now that I'm the last of your worries." With those words, the remaining shamans were speechless for a moment as she sauntered past them and into the manor. "Hmph," she stifled a chuckle as a few moments later, the silence was broken by Hao.

"Before I send you off, allow me to offer my sincerest gratitude," She could hear the Asakura beaming. "I'm grateful for any opportunity to be of use to my little canary." Not a moment later, the crackle and roar of flames engulfed the screaming and writhing bodies of those shamans.

Within minutes, terror and chaos reigned within the manor. No one was safe nor spared from Hao's wrath. Spirit guardians, large and small, became fodder for the ravenous Spirit of Fire while the wooden structure was consumed by its flames. While Hao revelled in reducing their hubris to cinders and cries, Tsubaki frantically searched for the whereabouts of Higurashi Kagome. Her small window of opportunity to ensure that everything went off without a hitch was closing swiftly as Hao effortlessly dispatched everyone in sight.

The priestess could barely hear the howls and pleas for mercy over the growing roar of the inferno. She raised her flowing sleeve over her mouth and nose as smoke encroached upon her senses. 'Knowing my coward of a father, he's probably in one of the back rooms!' Tsubaki scoffed. 'You'll get what's coming to you, but you better have finished off that wretched Kagome!' Her eyes then took on a red glow as she extended her arm, 'Beautiful Hebi, assist me! Find Father and Kagome!' On her command, Tsubaki's faithful, slithering shikigami began scaling the remainder of the manor, taking off in another direction.

Tsubaki loathed how beads of sweat accumulated on her forehead as more minutes flew by. 'Father, you're the only one left!' She thought with silent aggravation. 'Higurashi Kagome had better be dead! Or else—!' Finally, she spotted a dimly lit room through the eyes of her shikigami. She immediately recognized the space where her trembling father held up and hid from the commotion.

Takato was oblivious to the snake silently observing him through a crack in the door. The man was on all four as he hovered over Kagome's form. He was visibly shaking down to his large hands that were drenched in perspiration. They dripped and trembled with curved fingers as he slowly reached for the girl's neck. Takato was panting heavily, his inhales and exhales wide and loud.

Tsubaki spectated the scene with deranged voyeurism.

Her cheeks flushed with her fervor.

Everything from her father's widened eyes, how easily his hands fit around Kagome's neck, and the torn but mad expression on his face was nothing short of thrilling.

'Do it, Father…!' The priestess mentally cheered wickedly. 'Wring her neck and give me the world!'

Takato's eyes narrowed as he bared his gritted teeth. Kagome's throat wore his hairy hands like a loose necklace. She didn't stir. Her eyeballs didn't roll beneath her closed lids. Her chest merely rose and fell as if she were in a deep sleep.

'Yamato Takato, my dear father, you've denied my happiness for far too long,' Tsubaki mentally purred. 'Do me this one kindness, Father.'

Time was like molasses.

The seconds were just as thick and sticky.

But in her sadistic haze, Tsubaki relished every moment—.

—until her father sighed and retracted his hands. 'No…!' Tsubaki's eyes widened as her lips parted. Takato pushed himself from over the girl, resting on his bottom. 'Father, why?! What's the meaning of this!?' The shaman gave the slumbering priestess a bitter smile.

"Well played, Higurashi Kagome," Takato murmured. "I can't kill you, after all." He sighed again, the adrenaline escaping him as he resigned to failure. 'I didn't go through with it…' He thought silently. 'But I wonder if the gods would forgive me…'

Yamato Takato never saw it coming.

Tsubaki's Hebi shot across the room before springing into the air.

Its fangs sank into his neck, injecting him with Tsubaki's most lethal poison.

Takato grunted and tore the creature away from his flesh, spewing blood across his kimono and the floor. With an iron grip, he lowered the creature to behold his assailant. His eyes widened. "Tsu...Tsubaki…" He whispered as the world crashed down onto him. He'd know this shikigami anywhere. "Why…?" He asked of the daughter who was storming across the manor. His eyes felt hot and prickly as his mind flashed images of his life.

The highlights were when his precious daughters were born.

Nothing made him more proud than watching them grow into beautiful, powerful shamans.

Especially his cute little Tsubaki.

'Tsuba…' Takato collapsed to the floor. '...ki.'

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

"Sesshomaru, we have to hurry!" Kagome declared as she broke into a sprint. The beacon that was once a faint twinkle in the distance was growing larger and more distinct. With each bound, it glowed brighter and hotter. The light that appeared pure white from afar became a familiar flickering orange glow. It was like the inviting illumination of a campfire in a deep, dark forest.

In this space, the laws of space and time were skewed. The priestess' leaps were stronger, going farther than humanly possible, all without a physical ground to touch. Not far behind her, Sesshomaru glided with a graceful speed that only he was capable of. He gave her no verbal response and opted for his usual speaking with actions.

'Something's wrong! I can feel it!' Kagome's mind was racing as she and her guardian finally came within distance of their exit. The threshold was blindingly bright and scorching hot, like a gateway to hell. 'But for Hao, I'm not afraid of hell itself. Because I'm—' With one last leap, the priestess crossed worlds. 'Higurashi Kagome, the Absolute.'

Kagome's eyes shot open. Her body arched. She immediately knew that she didn't recognize the ceiling above her. But she had no time to dwell on it as alarms blared inside of her head. Before she registered what was happening, her body sprung into action. She pushed herself onto her hands and knees. Her eyes raised in time to see a white blur with a pulsing dark aura racing toward her.

Her hand raised defensively, "Get back!" A blast of pure energy incinerated the creature, leaving no traces of it or its corrupt aura. Kagome's eyes widened as she stared down at her shaky palm. "What...was that? The priestess then looked toward the figure caught in her peripheral.

Her heart skipped a beat.

It was the body of a man.

Kagome immediately crawled towards the man. "H-hey, are you—?" The inquiry died on her lips when she spotted the two miniscule puncture holes in his neck. The bitemark emitted a dreadfully dark aura. She bit her lip while leaning over the man, hovering her ear over his mouth.

...but he was gone.

"What an awful way to go," was her sullen remark. Kagome's heart was heavy as she placed a hand over the man's eyes and gently swiped them closed. "Sesshomaru, I don't sense any of my friends here."

"It would seem something foul is occurring," The demon responded. His eyes narrowed as he eyed the door. "Be wary, Priestess. This place reeks of death."

Kagome nodded as she scooped the crimson robe on the floor into her arms. "Okay," She scowled as she hugged the garment closer. There was a powerful aura approaching.

Not a moment later, the door slid open and in stepped Yamato Tsubaki. Kagome gasped. "You're one of Hao's followers!" She proclaimed. "What's going on here?!"

"So it's true, you hid your true potential from the beginning," Tsubaki glowered at Kagome but her voice didn't rise above a hiss. "Higurashi Kagome, I despise you with all of my being. You're just as supercilious as your sister."

"My sister…?" Kagome's brows furrowed. "How do you know about Kikyo?"

"So that wasn't an act a week ago," Tsubaki confirmed between clenched teeth. "You really don't remember who I am."

'Actually…' Kagome blinked slowly then raised a finger to her lips. 'I do remember how you tried to curse me in the original world, Tsubaki. But have we before in this one?'

Angry anime ticks appeared on Tsubaki's forehead at the other priestess' perplexed expression. Her pale hands formed fists as she spat, "Back at the priest meet years ago!"

"Oh, that," Kagome smiled sheepishly while waving a hand dismissively. "I try to block that day out of my memories."

Tsubaki's brow twitched as she muttered, "I'm sure you do."

"Pardon my intrusion, ladies," Hao's voice cut in. Both priestesses instantly turned their attention to the shaman in the doorway, chorusing, "Hao-sama/Hao!"

Tsubaki hurriedly cleared the way, allowing her leader to enter the room. She scrambled to Kagome's side and offered the other priestess a sweet smile, "Kagome-sama, I'm so glad that no harm befell you."

Hao chuckled, his eyes closing as he scratched the back of his head with an embarrassed smile. "Tsubaki, now that you've stolen my line. I don't know what to say to my dear canary."

Tsubaki's head lowered, "M-My apolo—."

"But I do know what I want to say to you, for all of your efforts," Hao flashed a cordial smile that made Tsubaki weak and Kagome wary. The two priestesses' responses to the shaman waving his finger in a "come hither" motion were inversed, as Kagome shrank away and Tsubaki took a couple of steps closer to her leader. "Tsubaki…" he was practically glowing with her name of his lips.

"Yes, Hao-sama?" The priestess chorused in a dreamy tone that contrasted the venom that she just showed Kagome moments ago.

In Tsubaki's love-struck haze, she didn't note the sudden shift in atmosphere. But the way Hao's eyes opened revealing a scarily collected fury and how his smile darkened was apparent to Kagome. The raven-haired priestess' heart sped up as she spotted the twitch of Hao's gloved fingers. "Tsubaki!" She cried to the enamored girl, Kagome's body taking action as Hao's did.

'No! This can't happen!' Kagome's mind was racing and chest pounding. It felt as if time slowed down. Her limbs felt as weighty as cinder blocks. As Hao's arm rose and fingers stretched out to form an open palm, Kagome gripped the ends of her crimson haori between her fingers. As a fireball ignited in front of Hao's hand, Kagome raised the robe above her head as she dashed for Tsubaki.

Time resumed its normal pace as Kagome threw herself on top of Tsubaki. The weight of the hastened priestess knocked the unsuspecting girl flat to the ground. They landed on the wooden floor with a loud crash. But neither could feel the heat of Hao's blast from beneath the protection of Fire Rat robe.

Hao scowled and instantly ceased his onslaught, lowering his arm. Without batting an eyelash, he closed the distance between himself and the heap of priestesses. "Oww…" Kagome moaned, having bumped her chin against the back of Tsubaki's head during the fall. Her shut eyes opened when the darkness of the robe was illuminated by Hao raising the garment by its hem and peering down at her.

The Asakura was squatting as he stared down at Kagome.

For a moment, he merely stared blankly as she challenged him with a glare.

The milliseconds of silent eye battle felt like an eternity—.

Until finally Hao smiled and wagged his finger as if she were a naughty child, "My, my. You should be more careful." Kagome's glare weakened but her scowl remained. "The last thing I'd want to do is singe your feathers~"

Before Kagome could respond, she was pushed aside by Tsubaki as the latter priestess scrambled to an upright position. "Enough of that nonsense!" She bellowed, ignoring how Kagome's protest of "Hey!". Tsubaki glared and barked at Hao, "Hao-sama, how could you?!"

Hao blinked innocently at the inquiry. He then casually stood up, and Tsubaki and Kagome hurriedly followed suit. Tsubaki's hands became tight balls as the Asakura spoke in an alarmingly nonchalant manner. "You were aware that anyone who'd harm my canary would be punished severely, including yourself," The wide smile that used to dazzle Tsubaki suddenly felt cold. "I honestly admire people with ambition, that's why I became interested in you."

Tsubaki's almost bit her tongue as she attempted a step towards Hao, but she was thwarted by Kagome putting herself between them. The ebony-haired girl's arm raised to the side as her blue eyes narrowed, urging Tsubaki to tread carefully.

"I don't even mind that you planned to use me to kill your father so you could seize power," Hao admitted. Tsubaki's eyes widened. "That's right. I knew all along. I don't need Reishi to recognize a jealous, greedy soul. But I draw the line when you break the one, golden rule." Hao's gaze went from Tsubaki's shocked face to Kagome's warning glare. "And I suppose you'll protect this girl even knowing that she plotted to kill you?"

It was phrased like a question, but Hao clearly knew the answer.

Kagome lowered her arm but remained Tsubaki's shield with the red robe draped over her dark tresses and small shoulders. "That's right," She answered. "There's been enough killing," she declared as she resisted the urge to look at the body a few meters away.

"Very well," Hao conceded with a shrug and sigh. He threw Tsubaki one last icy stare, "Count your blessings today." With a dramatic turn, his cloak flapped behind him as he turned heel.

Tsubaki was stunned into silence as her master started towards the door.

This was it.

The end of her ambitions.

She killed her father, but Higurashi Kagome lived.

Tsubaki remained motionless as Kagome moved after the shaman.

"Hao, wait!" Her fingers gripped the back of his cloak before he could cross the exit. Immediately, the Asakura obliged her request. For a moment, he silently stood there with his back to her. Kagome didn't mind the pause, his hesitation, or how it felt like the rest of the world disappeared.

The moment that the girl released her grip, Hao eyed her from over her shoulder. "Face me properly," Kagome's demand was as soft and firm as the resolute expression on her face.

The brunette sighed and smiled before obeying, "My, my~ Found your voice, did you?"

But Kagome wasn't bothered by his teasing. The way she took a step closer and tried to make herself look bigger took him by surprise. With her hands as loose fists near her chest, Kagome entered his space. It was the first time she initiated such proximity.

And what captivated him the most was her eyes: so expressively large and pleading.

For the first time since they met in this world, Kagome didn't shy away from her feelings.

She bore them through the eyes that reflected how her heart went out to him.

"Hao…!" Kagome's whisper was almost urgent as her hands found his. Her smaller ones failed at encasing his the way she wanted. Still, she held on. "Let's stop this—!" She shook her head and quickly clarified, "All of this! You remember it, don't you? The first world...?"

"...I remember enough," was his cryptic answer; it was followed by a bemused smile. "What are you getting at, Kagome? What are you asking of me?"

Kagome's grip tightened as her lips pursed for a moment. She wanted to put all of the feelings that she carried with her into words. Kagome the Power had given up hope because she witnesses the birth and deaths of so many worlds. The details of the failures were wiped clean, as if her other half took a damp cloth and ran it across her mind.

If those memories were filth clouding her brain, the remaining after images were but specks of residue.

Even now, when Kagome wanted to remember why she felt like her feelings alone were enough, she couldn't.

All that remained were memories of that first world: the world that was born naturally.

The world where she first laid eyes on Hao.

"Hao…" Kagome whispered.

The person before her was the same Hao who she wanted to comfort so long ago.

"Aha, so you invited me out of pity," he seemed more amused than offended by that prospect.

The spirit halted and stood before the shrine. Hao stood just one stride behind her. "Not pity…" She corrected him softly. "I just wanted to," she stated simply. She faced him after a graceful but swift turn on her heel. "When I look into your eyes, you seem so sad," her own eyes melted at this statement. "And when I took your hands to take you away, your eyes…" she recalled the raw emotion simmering within Hao just a few minutes ago. "They said, 'please'."

Now was the time to be bold, to be the person who healed Hao's heart all those years ago. It didn't matter who was watching. It didn't matter if she stumbled. "I know you can tell, but she's gone…" Kagome told him. "It's only me, Higurashi Kagome the Absolute. So this is our last chance to live." She held his attention and his gaze.

"All hail the Leaf King!" she declared from behind. She dramatically spread her arms out wide and dispersed the bundle she held to her chest.

Hao blinked when suddenly his vision was full of the many mellow colors and intricate patterns of autumn leaves. Yellows, oranges, reds, and every hue in between fluttered around him like sleepy butterflies looking for rest. Not a moment later, he felt an unfamiliar but comfortable weight slump against his back. Before he could process what was happening, he felt arms slide and interlock loosely around his neck. "If your medicine is too bitter, or if your load is too heavy... "I'll take half. And we'll share our pain."

"Let's stop hurting each other, and hurting other people," Kagome with misty eyes. "I know you, the true you," she whispered. A small smile spread on her lips when she noticed Hao's eyes widened a bit. "You're kind, you really are. And hurting people only burdens you."

Kagome stared up at Hao's face.

His eyes wavered.

His lips slightly parted.

She could only hope that it meant that her feelings reached him.

Finally, his hand slipped from between hers. Kagome felt the warmth budding within her frost over with Hao's strained smile. "Forgive me, my little canary," was his response. "But you're wrong about me. The Asakura Hao that you knew back then is dead. I killed a lot of people, and I feel nothing."

"Kagome…Because of you, I think that this world is still a beautiful place."

[ 'If I am his canary, then I can't stop here!' ]

Once again, Kagome's fingers found Hao's cloak, this time latching near his arm area. "That's not true!" She protested. "I know that you've done terrible things, even today!" She told him.

Just acknowledging that fact was loaded and felt dirty, for a moment, the weight lowered her head.

"But...I know that you're lying when you say it doesn't hurt, Hao!" Kagome insisted, her eyes glistening. "I do know you, more than you think. It won't be easy but we can make things right." Finally, she sighed and lowered her arms to her sides. She took in Hao's somewhat surprised expression.

[ 'I know after all of this time, after all of these worlds, it's hard to believe that I believe in you. But, Hao—.' ]

"You have the capacity for redemption," Kagome told the stupefied shaman. Her hand covered her heart as she recited her vow with determined eyes, "And I'm going to save you."

Hao came to his senses, finally able to react to Kagome's declaration. His half-smile was weak and bitter as he whispered, "You will, huh…?" The shaman then promptly turned, "I'm counting on you."

And with those words, he departed, the flapping end of his cloak was the last that the priestesses saw of him that night. Hao left Tsubaki, stunned and as still as a statue, and Kagome tight-lipped and trembling.

[ 'Hao, it may not be a love song, but if it means that I can guide you back to the light...' ]

Kagome turned to Tsubaki with a frail but welcoming smile.

One that brought the other priestess back to reality.

'I had Hao-sama destroy so many lives today,' Tsubaki's inner voice chorused as she followed behind the other girl. Together, the pair walked down the long hallway. The raging inferno that threatened to consume the manor didn't reach this far, but the air still sweltered. 'And I only lived because of Kagome…' Her heart sank into her stomach as they continued on in silence, taking the transition from ordinary structure to ashen, crumbling fire-damaged walls, engawa, and support beams.

"Kagome…" Tsubaki whispered, bringing said girl to a halt. The Yamato lowered her head, "You don't owe me anything, but… Bring them back."

Kagome readily nodded, "Don't worry. I plan to. I just need to know everyone who was..." She paused but swallowed her emotions. "Killed."

[ 'I'll keep singing and singing, until my very last breath.' ]

Authoress' Notes: Welp, it's another shortie but that concludes this chapter! I hope you all enjoyed it! A few years ago, I never thought that I'd make it to this point in the story so I'm really patting myself on the back here. Additionally, the insert song for the final Hao x Kagome scene is Canary in my headcanon soundtrack, English translation is somewhere in that folder!

Ahhhh, we're making progress. I'm definitely not ending this year where I wanted to be in this story but some progress is better than none. I honestly wanted to have the Christmas-themed chapter by this Christmas but nope nope. I'm not nearly close to that chapter so yeah, sometime in the future, we're getting our first Christmas chapter. Anyway, all feedback is appreciated!