Disclaimer: All characters from the series Inuyasha that appear in this fanfic rightfully belong to Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own anything regarding their creation; I have Rumiko Takahashi to thank for that.
Author's Notes: Happy New Year everyone! With 2023 here, this story has reached its 8th anniversary. I apologize since I know that my update schedules have been irregular. It is with a grateful heart that I thank you all who haven't given up on waiting and have continued to support me. To all my old readers, thank you for accompanying this story for so long, and may this story persist in bringing you a great read. To all newcomers, welcome and I wish you a pleasant reading journey.
With all that said, this chapter is coincidentally a huge milestone for Sesshomaru and Kikyo so it is a fantastic way to begin the New Year.
Have a wonderful New Year! May you all enjoy it!
RedHood001: Thank you for answering my concern. I'm relieved to hear from you that you think the Inukimi didn't appear out of the blue. Her sudden appearance was a huge part of the conflict for me during my drafting progress for the last chapter.
Yes, I thought it was best if the Inukimi and Inuyasha had a pre-established history. Because it didn't sound realistic for Izayoi to know how to handle the half-demon blood that is within Inuyasha. It was one of the things that bothered me in the series, for Inuyasha had no means of suppressing his demon blood until he received the Tessaiga. So somehow, Inuyasha just did not have any problems with it when he was young or Izayoi just knew how to handle it. Well, it does feel like a bit of a plot convenience in my opinion. Thus, in this story, having the Inukimi guide Izayoi a little felt necessary. Moreover, I also want to explore a little about what the Inukimi thinks of Inuyasha and vice visa.
I personally also love writing the comparisons between Sesshomaru and his father. Sesshy is on his way to surpassing his father in every way possible, including getting the love of a human woman and loving her in return. ;)
lightpotioon: An excellent question! Getting the stubborn Sesshomaru to listen is an extremely tough challenge. One might say that trying to persuade a rock would be an easier endeavor. But now that the Inukimi has made her point, we will see how Sesshomaru perceives it in this chapter.
fabelliot: Yep, I enjoy having the Inukimi play a supporting role in my story. Writing her dynamic personality is both fun and challenging. Having her lecture and teach her son is just what the latter needs. In all honesty, someone needs to get through to him and there's no one better than the Inukimi. You're right, only she and Kikyo can talk back to him and speak on equal ground without receiving Sesshy's disdain or wrath.
Ah, I'm not too sure why the update emails aren't getting through. Could it be that you've turned off the notifications by mistake? I don't know either but I do hope you will have the issue sorted out soon.
Yuki Minamoto: Hello new friend. ;D I'm not sure if or when you will reach this point of the story. However, I'm pleased to see a new face reviewing. I hope this story has been entertaining for you thus far.
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(This chapter was betaread by bubu-chibi-chan).
Chapter 43-Quintessential Conviction
"Candor cannot be proven with potentially empty words. It can be, however, with action." -Sesshomaru on trust
"To trust is to wager with a piece of your heart." -Kikyo on trust
Sesshomaru returned to the room where his subordinates were waiting, his mind still racing with thoughts centering on the exchange with his mother.
"Feel free to impose your control, for she is just as free to resist you. However, exert too much and you will find yourself with an empty husk, her flames extinguished in your hands. A life stripped of free will has no purpose. A fate worse than death. Is that the cruel punishment you intend for her?"
Never. Ever since discovering her identity, he wanted her to remain the distinctive individual that had captivated the young Inu prince. Stripping her of her astuteness or her steadfast willpower was not his objective. That would reduce Kikyo to a meek shell. She wasn't supposed to be amongst those who held him with reverence. She was an exception. She was a challenge. His challenge. She was his most reliable ally and simultaneously his most infuriating rival, regardless of the time or place. Even now, he mused with a tint of exasperation, that his challenge continued to pile invigorating predicaments his way.
He wanted to preserve every aspect that made her Kikyo. However, at the core of his problem was her altruism. So long as it was for the greater good, she was more than willing to throw her life away.
'How little does she think her own life is worth?' Not for the first time did this question cross his mind, and it would not be the last. A salient frown marred his fair countenance and his palms rolled into fists. He would have to—
'No.' He terminated his thought, realizing that he was falling back on habits. Forcing her was not going to help. The more he tried, the more she seemed keen to oppose him.
What he ought to do was communicate with Kikyo on equal grounds. However, that was easy to say and difficult to put into practice. Centuries had passed, and nothing was the same. Their history was convoluted, and their ideologies clashed. Even if he managed to return them to the days when they were true to themselves and bonded via mutual respect, it would not instantly solve everything. There existed a metaphorical bubble of privacy. Their personal affairs were their own; they decided whether or not to disclose the details. To save Kikyo, Sesshomaru would need to meddle in her problems, thus being the one to demolish their unspoken but established pact.
Moreover, he would have to initiate their exchange if he wanted to compromise. Contrary to the stereotypical rulers, the Lord of the West was no diplomat. Far from it. It was in his nature to dominate, not to negotiate. Only during fights would people — Inuyasha, being the prime example — notice Sesshomaru become a little more talkative. He would throw the occasional taunts to ridicule those he clashed swords with if he was in the mood. Outside of a battle, Sesshomaru's words were as rare as gold. In short, he knew how to utter cold facts that were blunt and often marked with contempt. But to sit down and be diplomatic? Against that cunning miko? It was not a territory that even Sesshomaru, the almighty Lord of the West, could trek upon carelessly.
'Insufferable woman.' It was going to be a hard-earned battle, a challenge that he would have likely savored if they were not so pressed on time.
"Sesshomaru, what an onerous dilemma you find yourself in. But everything leans towards one's perspective. From where I stand, I see an adventure aggregated with exhilaration." His mother's casual remark snapped him out of his deliberations and he realized that Sara had finished explaining their circumstances to their newest arrival.
"Indeed." Dragged back into the present, he was reminded that he had a valuable ally to recruit. From the corner of his eye, he meticulously scanned his mother's visage, searching for any subtle hints of intrigue in her body language.
To have a semblance of a chance of succeeding in his endeavor, the whimsical Inukimi's aid was indispensable. Fortunately, he knew how to appeal to her. Angling his head so he could look at her with a provocative glint in his golden orbs, he nonchalantly uttered, "There won't be a dull moment in this crusade against time."
She took the bait without any hesitation, a knowing smile etched on her face as she gracefully leaned back against her chair. "I see. You did not summon me merely to seek my advice on love," she paused on a dramatic note, taking in all the shocked glances her son was getting with discreet glee. "My, you should have said so earlier, Sesshomaru. No matter. Perhaps an adventure with you children is what my colorless life needs. Yes, an expedition does sound wondrous."
That was all Sesshomaru needed to be straightforward. "The tail fur of a nine-tailed fox. The feather of a phoenix. What information do you have for me?"
"So impatient." The gorgeous silver-haired noble lady shook her head once before adding, "Yet so fortunate. How auspicious for you that I know two acquaintances that can provide what you seek. For a peregrinator who has explored places far beyond your imagination, it is but a facile matter of exchanging favors."
"Do so then."
"Is that all you require from me?" The response, which was in the form of a curt nod, prompted the female daiyoukai's raised brows to plunge downwards. "A moment, Sesshomaru. The Yomi no Haori is a robe of the underworld. So how will you, a living of the mortal realm, enter the land of the deceased?"
'An excellent question. I wonder the same.' Keeping her concern unvoiced, Sara glanced worryingly at her lord. Yet, Sesshomaru's face remained phlegmatic, giving little to no indication as to what was going on inside his head.
Under several curious gazes, the Lord of the West placidly angled his head to look at the sword strapped to his half-brother's side. "Simple. I shall enter once Inuyasha cuts a path with the Meido Zangetsuha."
"What?" Chairs screeched as they were dragged against the polished ground from the motion of Kotori and Inuyasha leaping up simultaneously. With a quick shake of his head, the latter shielded his priced heirloom with an arm and fiercely protested, "You can't be serious! I haven't figured out how it works let alone know how to control it! You've seen what it can do. What if I end up shredding someone into pieces?!"
The queen of the Inu clan rose, her typical grandiose poise replaced with a ferocity akin to a tiger pouncing on its prey. Her chair hit the floor with a loud resonating clamor, yanking all attention in a heartbeat.
"Foolish child. Do you not know your own limitations?" she reprimanded, an obvious glower etched on her expression. Despite being ordinarily apathetic, the portion of her that was a mother struggled to repress the trepidation that juggled her beating heart around her throat. "Many have fallen to the Meido Zangetsuha, your father included. It is a destructive technique, not a means for teleportation."
"Then it shall be the time to test my limitations," came the dogmatic reply.
An Inu daiyoukai with a tad less self-control than the Inukimi would have growled at his nonchalant attitude, though she merely tossed her head. "Such lengths to save one woman. Fine. Fine. Do as you please. I won't stop you."
"...Wait! Wait a minute! That's it? Isn't Sesshomaru your kid? You just told us that the Meido Zangetsuha was what killed the old man and you're gonna let him jump in? I-I haven't learned how to control it!" Inuyasha blurted out, his golden orbs as round as the sun. Had his mind been in a less frantic condition, then it might have mortified him that he was worried for his half-brother. Did the jerk even want his concern? Given his snobbish personality, most likely not.
He frowned. The Inukimi was a terrible mother. Centuries might have gone by since Izayoi's passing, but the precious memories of an affectionate and protective parent were imprinted into the hanyou's soul. It was no exaggeration to state that they were the light in his childhood. To see the disparity unsettled him; was this how full demons viewed their familial bonds?
A scoff that sounded like concealed amusement was emitted from the back of the Inu queen's throat. She inclined her chin similarly to Sesshomaru, her golden orbs shining bright. "You're far too hasty, child. Too quick to judge yourself and those around you. No longer is it my responsibility to stop him. He's old enough to face the repercussions of his choices."
"Enough," Sesshomaru cut in coldly, annoyed that the discussion was going off on a tangent. "Neither your trepidation nor consent is needed. The items. The five items are what I seek."
'Of course he'd say that.' Inuyasha held back from a verbal snark, though he showed his displeasure by crossing his arms in front of his chest.
Circling the table with graceful steps, the Inukimi found an unoccupied chair for herself. She sat, placed her elbow against the table, and allowed her head to rest on her palm while strands of lustrous silver spilled onto the polished surface of the furniture. Despite her relaxed posture, an aristocratic air delineated her lineage. "Sesshomaru, emphasizing is unnecessary. You have left no ambiguity as to what you seek. And I shall grant it only if you indulge my curiosity. Let us assume your temerity is not in vain and you obtain the Yomi no Haori. How will you return? Have you given it any thought? The Meido Zangetsuha is not a door for you to enter and leave the Netherworld as you wish."
Contrary to what his mother might have wanted, her words merely served to reinforce the idea that the journey was reserved for his undertaking. With a resolve tougher than gold, his hand went to the sword of healing. "The Lord of the Underworld resides in the depths of the realm. He will acquiesce and provide me with an exit. Refuse, and he will fall by my Tenseiga."
His mother did not look impressed. He speculated that she would have rolled her eyes in pure exasperation if not for her exceptional self-control. With sleek fingers, she fiddled with the jewelry on her neck. "Against the dead, that sword is a powerful weapon but not omnipotent."
"It need not be omnipotent. Cutting down the Lord of the Underworld will suffice." He casually dropped the jaw-opening proclamation.
"Your dedication is making you oblivious to all else and prone to impulsiveness. Sesshomaru, the guardian girl may have changed you, but your monomania is an enduring idiosyncrasy." A soundless sigh left the Inukimi's lips, the only hint betraying her customary flippancy. "If I were a cruel mother, I suppose I would enjoy watching your inevitable downfall. Alas, even I am not so callous as to stand by passively while my arrogant son leaps straight into death's embrace like the fool his father was."
There was barely any time to react before the former Lady of the West removed her neckwear and flung it in one fluid motion. Sesshomaru's face had been her aim, but the daiyoukai lifted an arm and caught the projectile with ease. The cool surface met his hand. A sense of odd familiarity tingled as he glanced at the object before casting his sight on his mother. Inwardly piqued with him as she was, the Inukimi was not the type to vent her frustration by throwing items, particularly not the jewelry that she was always seen wearing.
"What is the meaning of this?" he asked, an elegant eyebrow arched.
"A Meido Stone. A gift from your father upon his return from the Netherworld. Heh, the recollection amuses me to this very day. As if longing to ease my non-existent concern, for he had disappeared for many months, he gave me the means to transverse between the two worlds. He knew all too well that he would vanish on me yet again. Thus, he gave me the means to search. Ha, how audacious of him to assume I would!"
'A Meido Stone?' A chord was struck in Sesshomaru's memories.
"This amulet belonged to Utsugi. It is what he used to gather souls. See the center? That's a Meido stone." Aware of what had caught his curiosity, the old miko opened her palm and revealed the golden plate-like object that had a purple stone slotted in. "Utsugi gave it to me. He told me it will aid the saint in her recovery."
Right. An identical stone had come to his appraisal centuries ago. Back when the old miko Kakuju had shown it to him, he hadn't given it much thought other than it was going to help the saint recover. Now, however, the knowledge he had of Kikyo's condition gave him a new perspective. Kakuju wasn't trying to cure the saint of any physical wounds. Rather, she was providing her with a fresh supply of souls. Storing the essential information for further reflections later, he said, "So the stone will accomplish what the Meido Zangetsuha cannot, acting as the door to enter and leave the Netherworld."
"Yes. I do expect it to be returned afterward, unblemished." A dangerous flash that replicated a gleaming knife sparkled in the Inukimi's golden pools. "You do know what that entails, right Sesshomaru?"
"Hmph. I have no desire to dwell in the Netherworld longer than necessary." Aware of what she was implying, the son of the Inu Queen gave a quick assurance. Stashing the jewelry away for safekeeping, he then proceeded to delegate the others' roles.
Remaining behind, Sara would set up for the ritual.
His mother would locate her acquaintances to obtain the tail fur of a nine-tailed fox and the feather of a phoenix.
To scale Mt. Hakurei for the holy water would be Inuyasha's task during the night, when his demon blood lay dormant.
Meanwhile, Kotori would bring back the dragon's scale.
Right as he finished assigning the demoness' mission, the Inukimi interrupted, "You truly did not plan this, Sesshomaru. How will your subordinate find a daiyoukai from the exiled Doragon clan, let alone have them relinquish the symbol of their power?"
"Have you forgotten? Ryukotsusei lies deep within the west's Tokiwa Forest, his form trapped in stone." Despite centuries having passed, Sesshomaru couldn't help the splash of discontent that rushed its way into him, prompting him to suppress a scowl. The decision to seal Ryukotsusei was logical; it did save his reckless younger self regardless of his wounded pride. Yet, it had simultaneously robbed him of an opportunity. Never did he manage to showcase his power by defeating the Doragon clan's leader.
"You think it's a simple matter of removing the scale as one would pluck a feather off a bird?" The unsettling jest coming from the Inukimi's analogy made Kotori shuffle her feet in discomfort. Though the noble lady carried on, uncaring. "The reverse scale is a fragment of a dragon's life. Without blood coursing through its body, the scale loses its properties. If it's an embossment you seek, then it will suffice. But it'll be useless for the ritual."
Inuyasha's composition paled. His eyes flickered over to Kotori before going back to the female daiyoukai. "So you're saying we gotta wake it before we can tear its scale off?"
An apparent contrast to the hanyou's frown was the mirthful smirk that descended on the Inu Queen's fair features. She unhurriedly covered her mouth with the back of her hand and sleeve. "Quite so. Thus, Sesshomaru, your quandary with the guardian girl can no longer be eschewed. The seal placed on Ryukotsusei cannot be undone by anyone but her. You will need to convince her aid."
"That shall be— Hm?" For all the confidence that could be heard in his composed voice, it morphed into a flicker of curiosity when Sesshomaru caught a flash of white on the corner of Sara's dark cape. Instead of heading over towards the door as the others expected, he altered his route to the unsuspecting brown-haired woman's back and tore off the object from the fabric.
"Is that… a talisman? How? How did it get there?" Sara's eyes narrowed, her features filled with befuddlement as she patted her clothing as if expecting more things to be stuck on it.
"That looks like Kikyo's handiwork. I've seen one similar stuck on Sesshomaru's tight pants before," commented Inuyasha, grinning. Even if he didn't know what the paper-like object's purpose was, the fact the miko had caught Sara unaware was enough to temporarily relieve him of any apprehension he was feeling toward their assignments.
"Kikyo-sama told me she can channel her powers into a talisman for various functions. Primarily, they are used for erecting barriers and as a way of communication…" Kotori halted, her ears twitching as an implication weaved into place. "… Wait. Are we being eavesdropped?"
The Lord of the West did not need to hear anymore. Shoving the piece of paper into a compartment inside his sleeve, the daiyoukai's golden orbs flickered over to Kotori. Being his avid follower, she sensed his gaze instantly and focused her attention on him as a determined and allegiant soldier would to her commander.
"Kotori, wait here until I have procured the means to unseal the vile beast." As she meekly bowed in response, he turned to the other occupants in the room and commanded, "You all are dismissed. Go and complete the mission I've assigned."
With that said, he walked out without another glance, both his mind and heart racing at the notion of what was to come.
In the room she was told to stay in, Kikyo involuntarily prepared herself. While her features remained serene on the outside, she was counting down the seconds until the great dog demon dragged the sliding shoji open with his sharp fingernails. Excitement — or was it apprehension? She couldn't tell — twisted inside her. She was able to have some deep deliberations about the idea of accepting her desires since Sara's departure, and though she would have preferred more time for reflections, she knew that the upcoming conversation would be an essential one for them both.
A fleeting moment of oppressive air passed, concurrent with the warning tingle from her weakened spiritual powers, before the wooden barrier that separated them was pulled aside. The Lord of the West entered the room poker-faced, with perpetual stoicism incised into his fair features. However, Kikyo was under no illusion that he was equanimous. There were indications of his usually stagnant emotions encompassing his form as he closed the door and approached her bedside. He seemed to hold just as many expectations — and uncertainty — as she did.
Golden orbs met a pair of mahoganies. In that instant, everything else vanished. Their surroundings were no longer relevant. All that mattered was the owner of the dazzling pools that contained centuries' worth of significance. There was much to say. So many thoughts and feelings that they wished to convey. However, none of them immediately spoke. The stillness lingered. While it was not uncomfortable, it was not desirable either.
Ultimately, it was Sesshomaru who broke the status quo by approaching the bed that Kikyo sat on. She expected that he would utilize his height advantage to loom above her as he initiated their conversation, his chin raised at an upward angle that emphasized arrogance. Therefore, surprise shot through her when he instead found a spot by the edge of the bed. Their gaze met once more, though there was no need for her to lift her head as he settled with being eye-leveled.
"Kikyo," he uttered, the name coming out of his throat with more emotional fluctuation than his pragmatism would otherwise suggest. "I see time has done nothing to curb your meddlesome nature. You're still prone to sticking your nose — or talisman — into places you need not be in."
It was more of an exasperated comment than a reprimand. All things considered, Kikyo wasn't Sara or Kotori. His expression of disapproval had never terrified her, nor could it deter her from doing what she wanted. Hence, he anticipated a stubborn retort and she did not disappoint.
"I loathe being oblivious while there are those who try to decide my fate." Even as the words left her lips, her mind mentally called herself out for being hypocritical. It was something she would have dismissed completely before her confrontation with Sara. Insanely obsessed as the woman was, she was at least correct in this aspect: Kikyo had been planning and doing things behind Sesshomaru's back on many occasions, neglectful of his feelings. Deemed for the greater good perhaps, but that did not change how it must have adversely affected his psyche.
"You told Sesshomaru-sama nothing but expect him to follow your whims. You made all the decisions for him without giving him a choice, all done under the delusion that it is for the best. Your behavior is filled with selfish arrogance. What do you, a miko who has left Sesshomaru-sama for centuries, know what is best for my Sesshomaru-sama?"
With Sara's words serving like whiplashes inside her head, she inhaled a deep breath and said, "I know you desire my cooperation. That I shall offer you in full, Sesshomaru, along with the truth you have been deprived of."
The daiyoukai was renowned for his impassive countenance but even he could not help but blink at her sudden expression of compliance. Such a turn of events was undoubtedly the best development under the current circumstances. Yet, naivety was never a part of his nature; it was reserved for simple-minded fools like Inuyasha. Kikyo was as sagacious as she was unyielding. Despite wishing to grant her the freedom to stand on equal footing — for there was none as suitable as her to stand adjacent to him — he knew better than to let his guard down. He had done that before and it had led to centuries of grief.
"What do you seek in exchange?" he asked, regaining his cool poise so quickly that one might question if there had been a change in the first place.
It was Kikyo's turn to be perplexed. She frowned a little, momentarily entangled with the assumption she had misheard. Bizarre. Since when did Sesshomaru ask instead of command? A fleeting urge, born from caution, surged, probing her to test the origin of his abrupt generosity. Alas, this was hardly the time to let the opportunity slip away. She couldn't afford to.
"I wish to accompany you on your journey to the Netherworld," she said matter-of-factly, her mask of tranquility slotted in place to conceal any astonishment. The almighty Lord of the West was not the only one equipped with the skill to feign aplomb.
His first instinct was to trounce on her fearless request — if it could be called one — and scoff. Timely, he recalled the necessity of compromising. As much as he was unused to the idea, he would endeavor to recover the equilibrium that once existed between them.
"Your wounds." A small tilt of the head as his eyes moved to scrutinize her upper body. Despite the bandages not being visible through her white robes, he knew they were wrapped securely around her torso. Aside from the curse on her shoulder, she had sustained injuries during So'unga's rampage. While he had ensured that she received proper treatment, her recovery speed was snail-paced compared to his youki-enhanced healing.
His unvoiced worry did not go unnoticed; Kikyo allowed a reassuring smile to grace her lips. "Do not concern yourself. In the realm of the deceased, one's physical state matters little. It is the soul that holds the most power — and hence, why the Tenseiga matures into a terrifying weapon. You, of all people, should know that my strength has never been a physical manifestation. My soul may be fragmented, but do not underestimate me. I can fight. Rest assured that I won't be your liability."
Unbeknownst to the miko, her being a possible burden was the furthest thing from the daiyoukai's mind. Individually, they were exceptional and seasonal warriors, having triumphed over countless enemies over the centuries. If he did not consider her a liability when she had been at her weakest against Utsugi, then he would not deem her as one after knowing the truth. They were equals. When combined, they were unstoppable.
"Accompany me if you so desire. I'll allow it. It would be a foolish endeavor to leave you unsupervised. You must, however, remain close to me." Concurrent with the words leaving his lips was a mental command. The cuffs clasped on Kikyo's wrists snapped open and dissipated into light particles.
Relieved to have the weight extracted and her freedom restored, Kikyo gently massaged her wrists while maintaining her gaze on the daiyoukai. "Is that all? For me to be by your side? Are there no further rules I must compel to while we transverse the land of the dead?"
As if reminded of something unpleasant, Sesshomaru's golden orbs glinted. He stared at her with a focus that one would expect from a warrior on a battlefield. "Do not become one of them."
Kikyo blinked, though there was no need to voice her question as he elaborated, "You have assured me that your injuries are inconsequential. So exercise utmost caution and abandon your senseless fixation on death. Do not willingly become a dweller in the Netherworld. Not now, not ever."
Try as he might, there would be no compromise when it came to the subject of keeping her alive. If it were any other matter, he supposed he could afford to discuss it with her, especially since she was somehow more negotiable than before. Yet, there would be no opportunity for any debate if the woman was dead.
The notion seized his heart with a tight invisible grip. A horrible reminder of what he had experienced centuries ago when the saint had left. That bone-chilling hollowness of being shredded into pieces, having his insides torn open and exposed. That awful sensation of being left abandoned, alone, and helpless. He never wanted to feel it again. "I want your absolute conviction. Pledge to me, Kikyo. I need you alive."
Monotonous as he had managed to keep his voice, his admittance came as a surprise to Kikyo. Yet, the return of his overbearing attitude nearly brought a small smile to her features. While she valued the sudden amiability, the shift back to his more dominant self was more comfortable. His domineering essence was so ingrained into his core that to be humble was as odd as if he suddenly appeared as a human before her.
"If it's a spiritual pledge you want, then it's not possible. My failure to enact my oath to Lord Takaharu has repercussions. I can no longer…" she halted, shaking her head once. "I retain enough power to fight but can spare none to pledge. In particular, given the current fragmented nature of my soul, I—"
"That's fine. Our pact needs not to be of that nature," the daiyoukai cut in coolly. With surpassing his father as his motive, the younger Sesshomaru had not only been thirsty for power but also hungry for knowledge. Hence, he had visually devoured numerous scrolls from Hibiki's archive. Being a library for the demon kind, the place naturally contained information on their rival species. Humans with strong spiritual resonances were an interest for many. Several records mentioned that these humans were capable of using their powers to sign a spiritual pledge. Not to be taken lightly, it was a solemn contract that punished inadequacy by stripping the pledger of their powers.
'She must have renounced her pact when she abandoned the prime opportunity to assassinate me. She aided the one she had promised to kill, though not before embedding a fracture of her soul into my Tenseiga. The piece that slumbers inside will remain pure heedless of the divine punishment. Cunning, as expected.' His hand subconsciously found Tenseiga's hilt. Perhaps it was sentimental of him to think so, but being reminded that the sword of life was now the vessel of two unique essences suddenly made the blade feel heavier. Its significance was no longer subpar to its two counterparts.
"I do not wish to bind you. No more. Your words on the matter will suffice," he added solemnly.
"... Promises are not to be given or taken lightly." The raven-haired woman breathed in deeply, locked in a musing. For people who wielded spiritual powers as she did, words contained much power. A scrupulous choice of semantics was necessary. "However, I can assure you that my life belongs to you. I will permit no one else to take my life. Will an oath like this suffice?"
Sesshomaru's eyebrow shot up to meet the edge of his bangs. "You will allow me to seize control over your fate?"
She mirrored his brow movement but with a look of challenge instead of caution. "Is that not what you want?"
A short pause, then a firm shake of his head. "... No. Fight in earnest to live, Kikyo. Fight to live your life to its fullest potential. That is what I, Sesshomaru, now desire from you."
"..." The miko was silent, surprised, and reflective.
A supreme being of actions, the daiyoukai stood up in one swift motion and angled his body in her direction before holding his hand out. "What shall it be for you, Kikyo? Will you seal our pact and accompany me, now and evermore?"
Kikyo's mahoganies shimmered with a myriad of colorful emotions before finding tranquility under the collected gaze of his golden orbs. It was a still pool with a radiance akin to the warm sun that rejuvenated life. It was all the prompting she needed. Her palm found his, their fingers locking as he pulled her to her feet.
Delight erupted from within Sesshomaru as he slid his thumb across the back of her hand. A sense of nostalgia bloomed, easing his heart and simultaneously reinforcing his will. Together. They would be together. Just like centuries ago.
"It has been far too long. You and I have been reunited at last. The Netherworld is no match against our combined power." There was an unbendable conviction in his declaration, a gigantic mountain standing indestructible against any form of weathering.
A soft chuckle, followed by an amused smile that brought an involuntary shimmer to his irises. The sound was a reminiscence of their old days, though it was also the beginning of something new.
"You have not changed. Dramatic as usual… Nonetheless, thank you, Sesshomaru. You never gave up, not even when I was consumed by the despair that is the gods' foresight," Kikyo paused, tiptoeing forward and using her free hand to trace the magenta stripes on Sesshomaru's face. The two demonic markings symbolizing his might ran parallel on his pale cheek. Truly beautiful. Never was there a moment where they intersected. "I wish to believe that the future is not a straight line. There are many pathways. We must try to decide that future for ourselves."
The spark in his eyes turned into a luminance that spilled out warmth. "Spoken as my true equal."
A mutual emotion — one that Kikyo understood as love — surged and rekindled a flame. The heat melted the centuries-old ice encasing their heart. Their auras reached out in an affectionate greeting. Merging into one, they tucked away the remnants of the bitterness that had stubbornly clung on from their previous clashes.
Permitting himself to relish in the gentle nature of her touch, Sesshomaru allowed primal instincts to reign and reduced the final stretch of space between them by pulling her in. With her chest pressed against his sturdy torso, he took the next breath from her lips by making contact with his. She exhaled softly, her soft gasp catching his attention and entailing him to proceed further.
Kikyo widened her eyes, before shielding them with her eyelids. She melted into the ecstasy from their intimacy, her heart soaring. The hand on his face was suspended in place, with her mind being too enchanted to remember its placement. All she knew were that her tongue was dancing with his — as intertwined as their fates were — and how it made her feel weak yet strong at the same time. It was such a contradictory sensation she found herself sinking into, one that made her begrudgingly break apart when her body demanded fresh air.
Sesshomaru watched Kikyo pull back, with reluctance apparent in her mahogany orbs. Her chest rose and fell in quickened breaths, her cheeks slightly flushed. A shimmer of excitement flickered in his heart at the mesmerizing sight that only he reserved the privilege to behold.
At long last, he stood with the woman of his dreams. Such momentous time was worth making it eternal, though the daiyoukai was practical enough to prevent himself from forgetting all else. There were still important things to be done. Releasing the miko's hand, he extracted the sword of heaven from his obi and held it out to her. "Here. Tenseiga contains your fragmented soul. Keep it close for our journey."
"Are you certain? The Tenseiga is a fearsome power in the realm of the deceased. Only in your hands, shall its potential be known."
"There is no scarcity of power in my possession. Your spiritual powers nurtured the Bakusaiga. It can serve a similar, if less effective, role in my hand." The daiyoukai wrapped his other hand around his other sword's hilt, jostling it for emphasis before pushing his other weapon toward Kikyo.
No more persuasion was necessary as the miko accepted the blade. As soon as her fingers closed around the sheath, she felt a wave of power flooding in, rejuvenating her lost strength. Her soul remained divided, held within two different containments. Yet, having the Tenseiga in proximity to her body alleviated the aches and unnatural stiffness that constantly plagued her since she separated her soul.
Kikyo inhaled deeply, only to have her moment of respite destroyed by a sudden presence from the other side of the shoji. Instincts kicked in, snapping her out of her daze and triggering vigilance. "Who goes?"
"Inuyasha," the daiyoukai muttered matter-of-factly.
"Inuyasha?" The tension left her muscles as Kikyo tilted to the side. Looking over Sesshomaru, she recognized the distinctive triangular ears of the silhouette behind the fabric screen. "What are you doing here?"
"Hmph. The question ought to be: why are you still here, Inuyasha?" Compared to the tinge of perplexity in her voice, only vexation could be detected from the almighty Lord of the West as he rotated his body towards the door. The half-demon was provided clear instructions; he should not be dallying. Yet, in retrospect, Sesshomaru supposed he should have expected it. Out of everyone, he remembered the foolhardy hanyou being dissatisfied with the delegations.
"I need to talk to you, Sesshomaru." Shoving the door aside with one foot, the silver-haired warrior daringly invited himself in. "You left before I could say anything. I get it that you want me to head up to Mt. Hakurei. I know how important that is and that only I can—"
"Get to the point," Sesshomaru interrupted harshly.
"Keh! Point is you know Kotori can't handle Ryukotsusei by herself. We've all heard the rumors. That thing is powerful. Kotori… Her strength lies in stealth, not in a physical brawl. I… I need to go help her! My Tessaiga can kill Ryukotsusei. I can do both! Just lend me the fastest mount and I'll get the water and the scale."
"Unnecessary. Do not underestimate her, Inuyasha. She is a capable warrior and is aware of the perils," came the apathetic response.
Inuyasha growled, piqued.
Sesshomaru stared, uncompromising.
Before the exchange could escalate into an argument, Kikyo intervened. Her hand shot forward and came into contact with Sesshomaru's arm. Looking at Inuyasha, she took note of his clenched fists and tightened jaws. Tension was seeping out from his entire body.
"Sesshomaru," she called out gently, "You must admit that the situation has strayed from your initial plan. If Kotori is to acquire a scale that suits our purpose, she must first undo the seal that will liberate a dragon daiyoukai from his captivity. While Kotori is competent, it is only natural for Inuyasha to be concerned. He has every reason to be. You may dismiss him here, but I know that distress will consume his heart. He cannot complete your errand in such a state."
Not a sound came from the phlegmatic daiyoukai as his steely gaze locked on her. Immediately, comprehension reached her. Understanding his prideful nature, she took the initiative by taking out a talisman from her sleeve compartment. She held it out to the red-clad male. "Inuyasha, it is not within my power to instantly transport you to Mt. Hakurei. Nonetheless, this may reduce the necessary trek you must take on foot. You may be able to—"
"Hmph. Meddlesome woman. Do not gratuitously expend the remnant of your energy." Seizing her outstretched arm, the Inu Lord pulled the miko to his side before arranging his body to hide her from Inuyasha's view. A scowl — which lacked the classic hostility — marred his fair features. "Take my steed, Inuyasha. I expect promptitude when you complete your objective. Should you find time to spare, then what you do is none of my concern."
"Huh?" Inuyasha's eyebrows scrunched together, only to fly up a few heartbeats later as the implications behind the daiyoukai's words sank in. "Oh. Ah! Got it! I'm on it. I won't fail. I'll bring back the water and the scale on time." As the stupefaction evaporated off his face, the grin that followed was an expression that could rival the intensity of the afternoon sun.
"Wait." Halting him before he could take off, Kikyo walked over to him and handed the talisman. "Take this. Use it to unseal Ryukotsusei."
"Ok. I will. And don't worry, Kikyo. We'll beat the beast and be back on time. Just wait." He was practically beaming as he flashed her a thankful look before taking off like an arrow released at full draw. In his excitement, it did not cross his mind that the paper in his hand was the same one that Kikyo had mentioned was for teleportation.
"Must you be so stern with him?" Going over to slide the shoji that the hanyou had forgotten to close, the miko turned around and asked the other occupant in the room.
"Hmph. Come. He has left. We should go." Choosing to ignore her rhetorical question, Sesshomaru took out the Meido Stone and held it at chest level. All at once, energy raptured from its crystallized core. A beam of purple formed, cracking space in front of him like an egg. The air in the room warped. A circular portal took shape, releasing a surge of still coldness that collided against his sturdy body.
"What a foreboding sensation. As expected, the Meido does not kindly accept those who are alive," Kikyo remarked, letting out a wisp of white mist with her next breath. As the room's temperature plummeted drastically, her white robe felt inadequate and she had to insulate the unnatural coldness by wrapping her aura tightly around her form.
"Does it frighten you?" Sesshomaru asked, intuitively pivoting his body so that he stood before the portal and her. "Speak now. There is no turning back once we enter."
"Unsettling, yes," she admitted, finding no need to be clandestine. "However, have I ever left an impression that I would cower?"
"No." He held an arm towards her in the same inviting manner as before. "Then unless you require more time to prepare, this shall be the moment of departure."
"There's no need." Considering their time limit, Kikyo decided against finding herself a bow and arrows and donning her miko outfit. The Underworld operated under a different set of laws. A wooden weapon, unenhanced spiritually, would not be much use. Similarly, her miko outfit would not fend off the unnatural frost as efficiently as her aura could. "No amount of physical resources can prepare one for the Netherworld. It is a strange place. My soul, however, is prepared."
"Let's go." Securing her waist in a safe embrace, Sesshomaru took her and leaped into the dimensional hole—
—to where the deep dark abyss awaited them.