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: Hello, everyone! Although it's a little disappointing to see only 1 review for the last chapter, I'm here to deliver the next one and hope it'll be entertaining to read.
RedHood001: Here's a big thank you for your feedback. Your responses are greatly cherished and are a key motivator to my writing.
Trying to adapt to the canon Inuyasha style is tricky but I'm glad you're feeling the atmosphere and tone of the writing. It's amazing to hear that you think the last chapter is a reminiscence of what you know about the show.
Talking it out would be a sensible thing to do, though Inuyasha and Sesshomaru have never been the conversational types when it comes to each other, not to mention that Kikyo's involvement only complicates matters. Inuyasha is already on a short fuse with his brother around, but now he's literally getting close to exploding upon seeing how close and familiar Kikyo is acting around Sesshomaru. And of course, the daiyoukai is exacerbating the issue by provoking him. Classic Sesshy, lol!
The talk between Kagome and Kikyo had been quite fun to write about. However, I will admit that the former's POV is challenging to tackle because the show makes it somewhat ambiguous as to where her mentality lies. From the Final Act, there is an entire episode where Kagome seems to have gotten over her inferiority complex when it comes to Kikyo, with her believing that she has the advantage since she is alive and has seen more sides of Inuyasha than Kikyo has. Yet, only several episodes following do we see the development backpedal, with Kagome feeling insecure once more. Even the special epilogue, which Yashahime had adopted as their episode 1, reveals a similar situation where Inuyasha's recollection of Kikyo is frowned upon. Since I'm still not too sure of the exact feelings she has towards Kikyo — and by all rights, they are complicated — I've been avoiding her direct POV and left it up for interpretation. It is therefore a relief to hear that you found their conversation to be fascinating.
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(No beta-reader for this chapter).
Chapter 51-Killing Perfection! The Trial of Hell!
Kagome: Everything started at the Tree of Ages.
Inuyasha: A world of dreams and lost souls.
Kagome: The strong bonds of love!
Inuyasha: A new hope and a promising future now begin!
Kagome: Only one way is left to enter the Border of the Afterlife. Now, Inuyasha, Sesshomaru, and Kikyo are destined to gather there!
Inuyasha: Naraku's defeat leads us on a new path!
Kagome: Through time and space to a whole new world!
Inuyasha & Kagome: A fairy tale in the Warring States Era! Inuyasha!
Sango's gaze settled on Kin'u and Gyokuto as they played with each other, their youthful energy and innocence radiating. On her back, Hisui slept peacefully, replacing Hiraikotsu's usual spot. Since the defeat of Naraku and the disappearance of the Shikon Jewel, the Youkai Taijiya had forewent donning her clan's usual battle outfit underneath her light pink traditional kimono, no longer needing to remain consistently vigilant. However, her trusted Hiraikotsu remained close at hand, offering her a sense of security.
Her children were her pride and joy. Relaxing with them had become one of her favorite things to do in her leisure ever since becoming a mother. The serenity was well-earned, and one that she would've fully sunk into, were it not for the consternation that gnawed at her heart.
The faintest shadow of a frown creased her brows while her brown orbs looked at the hut beyond the path. It was quiet, without a hint of commotion or violence. Generally speaking, that was a good indication that the two women inside were talking cordially. Yet, anxiety dominated her mind.
'Poor Kagome-chan.'
It was a journey filled with tribulations and sacrifices for Kagome to reach where she was with her lover, whose indecisiveness once frustrated Sango to no end. Kikyo's demise terminated the swithering on Inuyasha's behalf, allowing him to dedicate himself fully to Kagome without any regrets and set foot towards their tomorrow. At the same time, that lack of a final decision meant the reappearance of 'Kikyo' was bound to bring complications. It didn't matter if she insisted she wasn't the late miko. From Sango's perspective, her sudden arrival was the last thing they needed.
After all, while she hadn't been present, Miroku and Shippo had once told her about the hanyou's infamous line: "Can't I choose both?". How could she remain calm knowing that?
Her sight wandered until she saw the prime target of her agitation, a ways off. Inuyasha was bickering with Sesshomaru, opting to use his older brother as an emotional duct. While it certainly wasn't the healthiest choice, it was a characteristic one for Inuyasha, who was never known for his wits, preferring a more physical approach to settling problems.
Sango supposed she should consider it a blessing that their conflict hadn't escalated into a swordfight, with the keyword being yet.
A groan slipped out from her throat as she rested her forehead on her open palm. The sound caught her husband's attention, whose view of vision lined with hers for a moment before turning to look directly at her.
"Why the sigh, my dearest Sango? It won't do you or our children any good to be so stressed," Miroku said, his voice as gentle as the spring's breeze.
"You are too relaxed for your own good." Though her spouse meant well, she couldn't quell the itch to snap back. For a brief moment, she reflected on her own tendencies, and how similar her means of dealing with pressure were to Inuyasha's. She shoved the random musing aside, focusing on the dilemma at the forefront of her mind. "Can't you see how this can turn into a disaster?"
"But is that not the reason why we're here? It is at times like this that we must remain calm and be the voice of reason for Inuyasha and Kagome."
Detecting her attempt to curb the harshness in her tone, Miroku's visage was warmed by a dashing smile. Sango swallowed, feeling her heart flutter. Nonetheless, his carefreeness at a time like this was still infuriating, despite knowing the logic in his words. Torn between the urge to return a smile or hit him with her Hiraikotsu, the demon slayer chose to bite down on her tongue to stifle any remark she might come to regret. Instead, she took a big inhale and confessed the worries that were nibbling at her composure. "I know. I'm fully aware that I shouldn't pounce on everyone near me like Inuyasha—"
"Not exactly the comparison I was thinking of…" Miroku started, his fingers placed on his chin. Yet, one intense glare from his wife halted the thought and he held out his hand in a gesture of surrender. "Ah, nevermind me and please do continue."
"— but the situation is not normal. Far from it. How can we accept this lookalike appearing out of nowhere while claiming she's not the woman whose existence alone caused Kagome-chan so much grief? Is she a threat? How can we be sure of her intentions? I can't even say I know Kikyo well enough to determine if the one here is real or not…" Her ramblings halted as something crossed her mind, spurring her next words that came at an unexpected angle. "Come to think of it, why do you seem so convinced? I can tell that Inuyasha and Kagome-chan are mixed on this matter like me, but you…? You didn't look at her for long, and didn't try to woo her like you would any other woman."
There was an ominous note in her pitch as she aimed a stern look at the father of her children. Although he had grown past his days of flirting with every young female he saw, some of his old habits remained. On occasions, Sango had seen him attempt to fluster a woman, though she had learned to accept that flaw, which had been ingrained into him out of the fear of perishing young from his curse. It was an integrated part of his personality and she could look past it so long as he made it apparent that he wasn't being serious with his intentions.
His hand returned to his chin in a stance for contemplation and there were a few seconds of silence before he responded, "Well, I've never really looked at the real Kikyo-sama that way. Inuyasha would likely take offense, but you see, she emanated a purity that never made her feel like a normal woman. At least that was how it felt to me. When I looked at that woman, I got the same impression as I once did."
"So you think she's the same Kikyo?" she questioned, her eyebrows narrowing as she realized the ramifications for Kagome.
Before she could spiral into her thoughts, he shook his head and nipped her speculations in the bud. "No, I'm simply saying I'm getting the same feeling."
"And that feeling is why you didn't flirt with her?" While she knew she was getting sidetracked, her feminine curiosity was getting the best of her, and she was induced to articulate the nagging question before her rationale could shove it aside.
Miroku gave a sheepish chuckle, though the mannerism in which he delivered his answer spoke of a different matter altogether. "Truthfully, it's because I have you and the children now. You may think otherwise, but I'm trying to end my womanizing antics. I'm aware you don't like them. How successful I'll be in trying to become a better man, I cannot say. But I'm trying, for you and our children."
"Miroku…" The monk responsible for the red that colored her face offered another charming smile. It chased away her concern, replacing it with a wave of warmth that caused the irregular tempos in her heart.
"Look here, you arrogant bastard! You're the irrelevant one! I doubt you know anything about HER either. Enough... I've had enough of you and your bullshit!"
Inuyasha's abrasive and loud voice shattered the inviting atmosphere. Sango's eyes widened, the redness of her face rapidly disappearing, replaced by a paling complexion. Whipping her head towards the source of the disruption, she was just in time to see her friend pull out his Tessaiga, transforming it into its lethal form.
Initially, the demon slayer had thought that the brothers had enough common sense to keep the confrontation on a verbal level. Both should be aware that any one of their powerful techniques could obliterate the entire village in a single swipe. Seeing Inuyasha with his blade out told her that wasn't the case. Apparently, she had underestimated the extent they were willing to go.
Resolved to avert a potential catastrophe, she turned toward Kaede's dwelling. No one emerged from the residence, nor was there any 'sit' command to stop one of the combatants. Confusion etched itself on her features. They should have heard the malice that had infused the hanyou's tone. Not only was the yell deafening, but the distance between him and the shack was not that far away. Did they, like she had, believe that the Inu siblings would not resort to violence?
The Youkai Taijiya couldn't continue pondering as Inuyasha took a swift leap into the air. Utilizing the pull of gravity, he slammed down onto the impassive daiyoukai.
"Miroku!" Her shout was brimming with panic as she snatched her young ones, bringing them into her safe embrace. This was the moment her husband had alluded to; Inuyasha needed a voice of reason before he got everyone caught in the crossfire.
"I'm on it." The flippancy often present in his face was washed off as the monk made an assertive beeline for the heart of the trouble.
Inuyasha swung his weapon in a sweeping arc, a maneuver Sesshomaru was familiar enough to sidestep easily. Undeterred, the red-clad warrior switched stances and attempted a quick undercut to the legs, though a simple leap left him swinging at empty air.
"Sesshomaru, whatever it is you're doing to her, stop it right now, or I'll make you!" Inuyasha threatened. A low growl accompanied his next assault as he adjusted his sword to chase after his opponent. Much to his chagrin, his upward slash proved as ineffective as his previous attacks. Sesshomaru swiftly dodged left, seemingly anticipating each of his strikes before they even happened.
A faint hum permeated the air, punctuated by the sudden gathering of powerful demonic energy in the form of an ethereal green aura around Sesshomaru's right claw.
Inuyasha's ears flicked instinctively, bracing himself for the counterattack that was sure to follow. Almost too quick for his eyes to keep up with, a flash of green light raced towards him, which he was barely quick enough to block with his sword. But the retaliation didn't end with just one strike. Suspended in mid-air, Sesshomaru rapidly flicked his wrists back and forth, sending a flurry of slashes toward him.
"You're a fool blinded by denial," Sesshomaru uttered coldly, his voice as chilling as the arctic winds as he articulated each word with his whip lashing out at the half-demon. "It was I whom she sought out of her own violation, not you. Learn your place, Inuyasha."
The wielder of Tessaiga struggled to keep his blade hoisted in front of him, his feet planted firmly on the ground as a barrage of vicious blows descended upon him. Each lash felt stronger than the last, and soon enough he lost count of exactly how many he had successfully blocked. It was only because of his Robe of the Fire-Rat that his skin was protected from being engraved with deep lacerations that would've stung like a thousand needle pricks.
Despite focusing on Inuyasha, Sesshomaru was not oblivious to his surroundings. Sensing movement out of the corner of his eye, he instantly dispersed his whip and landed back on the ground. His warrior instincts prompted him to quickly note the positions of the Youkai Taijiya and the monk. Concern for their comrades had foolishly brought them here, along with their three children. Now, the infants proved to be her shackles as the demon slayer shifted to a more defensive position in front of them, vigilantly watching out for any imminent danger.
Unlike the mother, who was in no position to intervene, her partner rushed forward swiftly and purposefully. The source of the motion that Sesshomaru had detected was his sandaled feet kicking up dirt and raising small plumes of dust in his wake.
"Inuyasha, the village! You'll get the people caught in the crossfire if you fight here. Calm down and let us—"
"Sesshomaru-sama!" Rin's cheerful voice cut the monk's words short and broke the tension. Sesshomaru's attention shifted onto the girl who radiated with exuberance, her side ponytail bouncing as she bounded forward. Dressed in a purple kimono but barring footwear — a preference she had despite being showered with her guardian's gifts — she seemed to embody the very essence of youth and innocence as she approached the Lord of the West.
A few strides from behind came the old miko, Kaede, and Jaken, each encumbered while bearing an assortment of food for tonight's meal. The green imp was lagging behind the most, struggling to keep hold of his Nintoujo and the basket simultaneously with his short limbs.
Sesshomaru rotated his body to face the brown-haired girl and inquired, "Rin, have you been behaving yourself?"
"I've been good, Sesshomaru-sama," Rin beamed, her expression brightening even more as she looked up at her protector, unknowingly diffusing the tension in the atmosphere around the Inu siblings. "Jaken-sama told me that you've been busy for a while. How long will you be in the village for this time, Sesshomaru-sama?"
The arrival of such a pure, joyful soul was enough to cause Sesshomaru to lower his stance, with the intent of teaching Inuyasha his place slowly simmering down. Near him, Inuyasha relaxed his tense body, realizing their battle had been terminated. Regardless of the fury that threatened to boil him alive, the hanyou knew better than to attack when an innocent girl was between him and his objective.
"Keh, this ain't over. Sesshomaru, hurry up and get rid of the girl so we can continue. I won't let you off that easily," the half-demon complained, though his actions proved to be far less aggressive than his harsh words when he consented to Miroku grabbing his sword arm and guiding the weapon back in its sheath. With the steel clicking back into place, he shrugged off his friend's grip carelessly and crossed his arms in front of his chest to showcase his disapprobation.
"My presence shall be brief. I have other matters that require my attendance." Not acknowledging the annoyance that was his half-brother, Sesshomaru regarded the young girl who exhibited a boundless positivity that was almost infectious.
Once a timid and malnourished orphan who lacked strength and a sense of belonging, Rin had discovered happiness and refuge under Sesshomaru's care. However, the daiyoukai recognized that their arrangement was merely temporary. For his young ward to grow and flourish, she needed to be integrated into human society. The demon realm, where power and prestige took precedence, was not a place that would allow a gentle and delicate girl like her to thrive. Seeing her now, he was assured that his decision to leave her with Kaede had been correct. With adequate time, he was confident that she would grow into a respectable and fine young woman.
"What's going on?" With a soft tap of her cane — her trusted bow — against the ground, the old miko, Kaede, spoke up and surveyed the surroundings. Holding onto her makeshift support in one hand and carrying her basket of food in the other, her one eye panned over every gathered individual. "All of ya are here and standing right in front of my home. Even Sesshomaru. Did something happen?"
Miroku leaned towards the half-demon, whispering, "Inuyasha, I think we should warn her. It would be better if she was prepared, otherwise…"
Inuyasha nodded in agreement, noting the clear sense in the suggestion. "Right. It'll be a huge pain if she has a heart attack or something. Better to let her know what's coming ahead of time."
Kaede's sharp senses had not dulled with age, and her ears remained keen. The lines on her forehead grew more pronounced as her concern intensified, her eyebrows narrowing as she shot a look directly at Inuyasha. "Warn me? Did ya do something bad, Inuyasha?"
"Me? How is that the first thing that comes to your mind? I ain't got nothing to do with whatever it is this time…" the hanyou responded, his sharp brows furrowing and his gaze drifting to the side in a subconscious gesture of inquietude. He loathed how he was avoiding eye contact with people so often today, though his body was betraying him by revealing the sentiments he was trying to conceal. His volume dropped drastically, and he was reduced to muttering the last part under his breath. "All I've been doing is trying to figure out if the woman inside your home is actually Kikyo or some kind of lookalike…"
"My sister? What does my sister have— Wait, who's inside?" Kaede's question was cut short as she sensed a sudden surge of energy flooding through the air, filling the space with a potent aura that crackled with static-filled energies. Teeming with malicious sensation, the discharge caused the old miko's spine to chill and she stiffened.
Everyone's head jerked up to see an unnatural shade of deep crimson casting its ominous tones across the once peaceful sunset.
"...The sky has turned red," remarked Miroku with bewilderment, his lack of understanding quite evident from his simple observation. Though his intellect was often lauded among the group, he had been stunned and perplexed by the surreal phenomenon. The last time a demonic aura with the strength capable of staining the heavens had been Naraku's miasma. Nevertheless, that was after the evil half-demon had absorbed the complete Shikon Jewel and was empowered by it. 'What power. How strong is the one causing this spectacle?'
"That's not all. Look over there!" Sango exclaimed, gesturing emphatically to one location.
From the direction she indicated, serrated lines that resembled bulging veins twisted through a small portion of the sky, weaving their way to form a circumference that rippled the very fabric of the universe. As the space distorted with a great static, a gateway to a gaping abyss materialized, accompanied by a reddish orb of light that shone from the center. From an onlooker's perspective, it was akin to staring at a giant eyeball with darkness for its sclera and the crimson moon as its pupil.
"Inuyasha, I'm sensing something—" Kagome called out, exiting from the hut with Kikyo by her side. The two women tilted their heads towards the source of the baleful energy, so overpowering that it was impossible to miss even indoors. "What is that?"
"A portal," Kikyo uttered with a frown upon her fair features. Other than the menace looming above, her senses also detected the pair of eyes locked onto her, though she chose to ignore it in favor of the bigger threat. "So the sword has decided to take action. What is it planning?"
"I-I don't believe this." Kaede was rarely left bewildered, her age and experience giving her immunity to unexpected occurrences. The arrival of a modern-era girl resembling her deceased sister hadn't rattled her, nor did the awakening of the hanyou she had once thought was responsible for the death of her sister. What left her speechless, with her sole working eye quivering, was the reappearance of a ghost from her childhood, whom she had assumed she would never behold again.
"Kikyo... Kikyo-onee-sama…" It came out as a choked mutter, brimming with complex emotions that sprung to the foremost of her mind.
Alas, Kaede had no time to dwell on the miracle involved in her sister's return as the dimensional hole oozed down an abundance of blue blobs of miasma. Catching on to the impending danger, the veteran miko signaled for Rin to join her by her side, before dropping her basket and reaching for her arrows behind her back.
Inuyasha's body tensed, his sharp hawk-like gaze displaying a look of intense repulsion as the viscous substances began to splatter upon the earth, giving rise to crude human-like forms. Each was clad in a warrior's kabuto and armor, with their distinct coloring denoting their particular fraction. Even if years had passed since he had last encountered them, their grotesque appearance and wretched stench of decaying flesh remained in his memories.
The army of undead soldiers reminded him why he held disdain for techniques associated with necromancy. The mindless minions were long dead, yet their bodies had been wrenched away from their final resting place to fight, heedless of their desires. With his blade drawn, Inuyasha felt compelled to act fast, knowing that dispatching them swiftly would be a form of mercy. To prevent any further desecration and abuse of the undead men was the greatest respect he could grant.
Miroku was fiercely determined to safeguard his children, and his motivation ran parallel to his close friend's, with both intending to quell the source of the issue as soon as possible. Jabbing his staff towards the dimensional hole above, he instructed urgently, "Inuyasha, up there. Hurry! Get rid of the portal!"
"Got it." Inuyasha didn't require further instructions. Pressing his soles into the ground, he propelled himself upward with a powerful leap and brandished his blade with a battle cry. "Kaze no Kizu!"
The demonic sword sang with a burst of youki. Waves of yellow erupted, the wind blades cutting through the air with ease akin to a knife against butter. For a moment, the red-clad warrior believed he had successfully fulfilled his objective. However, his optimism was abruptly cut short when the portal stayed intact despite the significantly invested power in his attack. His wind scar flickered as if a mirage, and that was the only warning he got before it suddenly became susceptible to gravity and plummeted.
'What's happening…? Damn it, I have no control over my Kaze no Kizu!'
Having reversed its direction, the signature move of the Tessaiga streaked down at blinding speed. Still in mid-air, Inuyasha could only watch in terror. "Everyone, look out!"
Sesshomaru nimbly positioned himself in the air between Rin and the Kaze no Kizu, holding his blade aloft. The surface of his steel was coated in a faint luminescence as he unleashed a powerful torrent of green youki to confront the downpour of yellow.
Never had Inuyasha appreciated the daiyoukai's strength in his entire life as he had in that single instance. Even as he was propelled through the sky from the shockwave and the air evacuated from his lungs, he found himself unmindful of the aches and pains that Sesshomaru's counterstrike brought. Those were insignificant. The safety of Kagome and the others was all that truly mattered, and the little damage was nothing in comparison.
Maneuvering his body, the half-demon landed, though his descent was anything but graceful as he slid awkwardly to a halt with his bare feet.
"Inuyasha!" Responding to the call with a twitch of his ears, Inuyasha snapped his attention towards Kagome's direction and was met with the sight of the young miko's sacred arrow whizzing past the left side of him. There was a flash of purple, followed by a tingling sensation as his mate's spiritual energy obliterated one of the undead soldiers who had been about to attack him from behind.
"Thanks, Kagome—" A smile mixed with gratitude and pride tugged at his lips, only to morph into trepidation when he caught movement over his beloved's shoulder.
"— Behind you!" With a spring as vicious as a tiger pouncing at its prey, Inuyasha dashed at high speed toward the ambusher hoisting a spear. Shoving his wife aside with his body, he plunged Tessaiga deep into the corpse's torso and cleaved its body into two. The urge to gag as the putrid miasma spilled out like blood was strong, but he dared not even blink when his enemy was in proximity.
Aware of their insane regeneration ability, Inuyasha positioned himself strategically between Kagome and the undead. Killing blows that would've ended ordinary foes did not work on the undead. Blue bubbles fizzled as the severed flesh rejoined.
The soldier was just on the brink of knitting itself back together when the small shape of Kikyo's shikigami hurled toward it from out of nowhere. Bathed in a ray of yellow, the tiny spirit manifested a blue kekkai that served simultaneously as an offensive and defensive means. A fleeting contact was all it needed to disintegrate the soldier, turning it into an inert pool of foaming liquid.
Similarly to the one that Kagome shot, the deformed mass did not regenerate instantly. Inuyasha couldn't overlook how effectively spiritual powers functioned against evil like these. No matter the potency of demonic energy he poured into his techniques, he simply could not rival the efficiency of Kagome, Kikyo, and even Kaede's miko powers. When it came to dealing with creatures of such cursed nature, only for them was it as effortless as water could extinguish fire.
However, it was abundantly clear that a few buckets of water were hardly equal to the monumental task of extinguishing a raging blaze on the scale of a forest. As countless more descended from the portal he couldn't destroy, the scope of the problem quickly grew out of hand, with an insurmountable tide of foes surrounding them.
Unwilling to leave herself exposed on all sides, Kikyo mentally directed Kochou to enlarge the kekkai until it completely engulfed her and Kaede's residence. Being within range, Inuyasha and Kagome were also taken within its protection.
Aware of how sturdy Kikyo's barriers were, Kagome motioned from the circumference of the field, shouting, "Everyone! In here! Come quickly!"
"That's easier said than done, Kagome-chan." Unable to resist the urge to grumble, Sango broke into a sprint toward her new objective. Her son was still strapped onto her back while her daughters were carried in one hand by the back of their clothing — reminiscent of how a kitten would be transported. Her children's cries of discomfort and fear spurred her to hasten her speed.
'There's no end to them.' Miroku followed closely after her, determined to watch her back and help cover their escape. However, no matter how many times he parried away the mindless corpses with his Shakujo, they kept trying to get close to his loved ones.
As he dispatched another opponent with a blunt impact to the head, he came to a begrudging acknowledgment that he had grown extremely reliant upon the curse that was once meant to bring about his demise. Without the Kazaana, he had lost his capability to handle many foes simultaneously.
Even his wife performed better when it came to inflicting mass damage. Despite wielding her Hiraikotsu with only one hand, Sango still managed to carve out a path for their precious children, escorting them to the safety of the kekkai.
The distance might have been small, but it felt more daunting than a marathon with invisible boulders slung on his shoulders. It was only when he confirmed that his family was safe and sound within the kekkai that the heavy weight from his shoulders disappeared, and he felt himself breathing again.
The vibrant blue dome proved impassible for the rotting corpses, and any contact would effectively purify them. Only those permitted by the shikigami could pass through without any resistance, as though it wasn't even there to begin with.
It was because of such logic that Jaken, despite his status as a youkai, was permitted entry alongside Rin and Kaede. Similarly, Inuyasha found himself able to cross the barrier at his leisure, and he opted to jump back into the fray with Miroku and Sesshomaru.
Outnumbered and surrounded, Miroku and Inuyasha simultaneously wielded their weapons against any foe that approached them. The two settled with the classic formation, standing back-to-back and fully trusting each other to protect their respective blind spots.
"Inuyasha, was it a barrier that deflected your attack back then...?" With the inquiry burning a hole in the back of his mind for a while, Miroku finally gave in to his curiosity and risked a peek in his friend's direction. The momentary distraction nearly came at the cost of his life as he barely deflected the next incoming strike. His indigo eyes narrowing, he smashed the head of his staff into his assailant and caved his skull.
"No, that wasn't it, for sure. Something distorted my attack... rather than blocking it." Dismembering another attacker, Inuyasha reflected how fortuitous it was that he hadn't decided to use the Meido Zangetsuha against the portal. Owing to Naraku's barriers, he had plenty of experiences where his attacks were nullified or deflected to know what those looked like. The odd flickering of his Kaze no Kizu had indicated a spacial distortion; it was on another caliber compared to erecting a barrier. He suspected even his Akai Tessaiga would've been useless, provided he could reach it.
"If that is true, then to attack it may not be the appropriate course of action to pursue," acknowledged Miroku, his face contorted by a grimace.
"Yeah, we need to find a more permanent way of getting rid of them. Use your head and figure out something fast, Miroku!" the hanyou grunted as he crisscrossed blades with a dead warrior. Reigning superior in strength, he pressed through his opponent's defense, shattering his weapon and plunging his steel into flesh.
Another 'casualty' to add to the growing list, though countless more would have to be swiftly neutralized. Sparing a look at his half-brother, Inuyasha noticed that he seemed to be faring better against the hoard than Miroku and him combined.
As an arrow streaked toward his jugular, Sesshomaru's head swiftly pivoted to one side, avoiding the oncoming projectile. With one swift and graceful swing of his Bakusaiga, the walking corpse lunging at him suddenly became two halves. Monitoring every movement within proximity carefully, the Lord of the West's keen eyes flitted between all the targets as he unleashed a succession of lightning-quick swings that cut down his enemies with deadly precision.
While begrudgingly impressed with his older sibling's exceptional swordplay, Inuyasha realized that Sesshomaru was merely utilizing rudimentary movements. For Rin's sake, he speculated, lest she became collateral damage regardless of the kekkai protecting her. Alas, even the powerful daiyoukai could not fight forever in this condition and would eventually succumb to exhaustion from the unrelenting battle. At that point, driven into a corner, what was the probability for him to resort to a large-scale attack like the Soryuha, paying no heed to the ramifications of his actions?
A distinct pallor overtook Inuyasha's countenance at the notion. That would be far worse than dealing with the flood of undead.
"Hey, Sesshomaru! You hear me?" he barked, raising his voice above the din of metallic clashes. "Whatever you do, don't you dare use any of your damn sword techniques. Kagome and the rest are nearby. If you're worn out, just rush ahead and hide behind the barrier. I'll continue to handle things."
"You imbecile! Do not drag Sesshomaru-sama to your level." Jaken's volume was equally as loud, his fuming visage significantly contrasting with Sesshomaru's impassive demeanor. The imp youkai jumped up and down within Kikyo's protective field, spewing his ire for his master. "Obviously, Sesshomaru-sama has significantly greater endurance than a half-demon like you. You'll be panting like a dog long before he even begins to break a sweat!"
"Oh, shut it. I don't wanna hear you yapping. You ain't even putting in any sort of effort here," Inuyasha snapped harshly, gathering his annoyance and redirecting it at an enemy. The result was a corpse being decapitated, his head flying into the air with a stream of blue.
Disgust and anger were visible on the hanyou's face as he noted the color and the smell it brought. The filth was everywhere, seeping into his clothes and tainting all he saw. It made him more determined to cut them down, to eradicate them once and for all.
'Damn it! There's no end to these. I'll have to keep hacking away just to keep them under control. Curse their crazy regeneration rate. And why the hell do more just keep coming? Damn it all!' Every slash brought an internal cuss to the forefront of his mind. Confident in his combat prowess was he, but he knew that his endurance was not limitless. Pressure and exhaustion were mounting and for a transient moment, he considered a few seconds' respite within the kekkai. That notion was trounced on in a heartbeat. The village was too close, and so susceptible to the undead horde.
Oblivious to the fact that his strikes had become noticeably sluggish, in part due to the gradual accumulation of weariness and the distractions caused by his own mental ponderings, Inuyasha fought on viciously. In contrast, Sesshomaru remained laser-focused, refusing to concede to stray thoughts and concentrating solely on finding a solution to the unfolding chaos.
One after one, his enemies fell before him. Despite their overwhelming numbers, they stood no chance against his formidable might. It was apparent that he would remain unscathed long after Inuyasha succumbed to exhaustion or his own carelessness. But the satisfaction in vanquishing such unfeeling husks was non-existent. He sought foes who could refine his skills, not mere puppets who could never push him to his limits.
All they were was a waste of time and a danger to Rin.
Vigilantly scanning his surroundings with a sweeping gaze, he kept watch for any potential avenues of attack from the relentless foes. Simultaneously, he made a point to check on the safety of his ward now and then. That was when he noticed Kikyo, leaning against the wall near the entrance to Kaede's abode. Her lips moved, and only due to his youkai-enhanced senses did he discern her soft words.
"This cannot continue. Asuka, retrieve what I require from the west," Kikyo said to the shikigami not responsible for the barrier protecting Rin.
Swift as lightning, the petite shikigami hurtled into the air, her form a mere glimmering blue blur enveloped in a yellow light that shot across the blood-soaked heavens.
Recognizing that the miko had devised a strategy, Sesshomaru opted to allow it to unfold, a touch of curiosity coloring his inner monologue. 'Prove to me your worth, miko. Let us test the validity of your declaration. I trust it won't mirror the emptiness of Inuyasha's vacuous mind.'
Extending her palms out and intertwining her fingers with Kagome's, Kikyo utilized the latter's spiritual energy, drawing from her seemingly limitless source and passing it over to the branch Asuka had retrieved.
A radiant Ogatama tree sprung from the pentagram etched on the ground, its primary trunk stretching into the clouds above, and its towering branches concealed within a mystical mist. With a captivating aura, the mayose drew the reanimated soldiers towards it, compelling them to climb its trunk in a mindless trance.
Sesshomaru stood near the magical tree stoically, remaining vigilant with his sword in hand. Yet, beneath his emotionless facade, he was secretly impressed as the undead vanished into the hidden boughs, presumably being purified.
"Kagome, are you okay?" Boisterous as usual, even after a vicious battle, was Inuyasha. The instance he noticed his mate crumble onto the ground, he was beside her, kneeing and supporting her body with one hand positioned firmly behind her.
His blade was carelessly discarded to the side, and Sesshomaru scornfully noted the glaring breach of protocol for any true warrior. 'A fool, as expected, to cast aside caution all for a mere mortal woman.'
"It's ok, Inuyasha. I'm mostly fine, just tired and my legs are like jelly," Kagome replied, her voice punctuated by laborious pants as she tried to catch her breath. With a trembling hand, she reached out to softly caress Inuyasha's knuckles, a tender gesture of affectionate reassurance. Despite her weary state, she couldn't help but notice the warmth radiating from his skin, reminiscent of Kikyo's touch. 'Her body… It's not made from clay and dirt. I could feel some heat when we touched.'
Though Inuyasha didn't quite grasp the exact definition of 'jelly', he could comprehend enough and his golden eyes flickered with a glimmer of concern. "Take it easy. Don't push yourself. If you need me to, I'll carry you back."
"There's no need for that," Kagome firmly rejected the offer, determined not to remove herself from the unfolding complexities. She gave her husband's hand a resolute squeeze, a gesture meant to express her intention to rise from her seated position.
Attuned to his wife's unspoken cues, Inuyasha promptly assisted, their connection evident in their silent coordination. However, exhaustion proved to be a formidable adversary. Despite her efforts, the time traveler's knees threatened to buckle twice, and she couldn't quell the tremors that wracked her body.
Cussing wasn't a part of her habit — that was her lover's — but for that moment, she couldn't help herself as she muttered, "Damn it... How did she make it look so easy before?"
While the last part of her words were whispered so softly that it would have likely escaped the notice of human ears, Inuyasha possessed a heightened sense of hearing that would've allowed him to discern it under normal circumstances. However, due to his concern about his wife's well-being, he completely overlooked the murmur.
On the other hand, Sesshomaru found his thoughts lingering on those words. The 'her' in reference was undoubtedly the late priestess. Although he had been a mere spectator during the incident with the demon rats, he had caught glimpses of the colossal tree that had suddenly materialized. After all, such a magnitude of commotion was rather difficult to ignore. The sheer size and power of the creation were staggering, to the point that one might be left to wonder what it said about its maker. How immense her spiritual powers must have been, to accomplish such a feat within seconds?
But contrary to Kagome's implication, the reenactment had taken its toll on the outworlder who called herself Kikyo. While her demeanor remained indifferent, Sesshomaru, with his keen perception, noticed subtle indications that betrayed her actual state. There was a faint hunch in her typically impeccable posture and her face had grown paler than usual. Yet, nobody else appeared to have detected the oddities, their focus either fixed on the tree or the time traveler who had contributed vastly to the nourishment of the mayose.
In the instance Kikyo caught Sesshomaru's gaze, her features briefly displayed a frown before she quickly steeled her expression, reinforcing her usual calm. With a practiced motion, she slung a quiver of arrows over her back while her other hand curled around the newly acquired bow. Its weight and length slightly deviated from her ideal preference, though it was still a valuable addition that prompted her to express a silent gratitude to Asuka. The shikigami had not only fulfilled her assigned task but also provided her with the tools to arm herself.
"Sesshomaru," the miko called out with a firm urgency as she spared a concerned side glance towards the Ogatama tree. Despite having borrowed a share of Kagome's powers, she couldn't indefinitely sustain its existence in her present condition. Eventually, it would succumb to the inevitable decay, leaving them vulnerable once more. "We must make haste. The power of the mayose is temporary; it will wither over time. It is merely intended to offer us a brief respite while we focus on destroying the malicious presence behind these attacks."
To her relief, the daiyoukai reacted promptly, extracting the Black Pearl from where he had stashed it before pivoting his heels in the direction of the blue tome, which stayed firmly intact and tenacious. His sight locked onto his ward and his servant, and the instructions he issued were spoken in a stern and authoritative tone. "Rin, Jaken. Stay within the confines of the barrier. Do not venture outside until I have vanquished every pestilent impediment."
"Yes, Sesshomaru-sama." Rin was quick with an affirmative, placing her faith wholly in the demon lord who had given her a second life.
On the other hand, Jaken's large eyes filled with moisture as he implored, "Sesshomaru-sama, you're not going to leave me behind again, are you?" Yet, notwithstanding his words, he stood obediently within the barrier and did not attempt to follow his master.
Satisfied with their responses, Sesshomaru returned his attention to Kikyo, only to find himself looking at a rectangular piece of paper being extended toward him. Mildly intrigued by her capabilities, he focused on the offered object, wondering what distinctive phenomenon it might unleash. Other than the incomprehensible black lines that inscribed its surface, its appearance was no different from a mundane piece of paper. However, only a novice with no battle instincts would assume it was ordinary, for the presence of a web of spells enveloping it was unmistakable.
"What is it?" The Lord of the West's voice was even and devoid of inflection, but the way that his eyes were fixated on the object told Kikyo that there was at least a minimum level of interest.
"Please keep this with you, and refrain from disposing of it. If the circumstances so require, the talisman will behave as my imitation. However, I doubt it will come to that. For now, its purpose is to serve as a medium of communication and tracking, should we become separated while traversing the portal." One might scoff at her cautious demeanor, labeling it as paranoia. Kikyo digressed, the image of a petrified Sesshomaru replaying relentlessly in her mind — his hollow, lifeless form etched indelibly into her memory. The separation that had occurred upon entering the portal had been the catalyst for her current predicament. She would be damned if she allowed the same thing to happen again.
Oblivious to her inner resolve, Sesshomaru calmly reached out and took the talisman from her, the sharp tip of his fingernail gently grazing her skin in a fleeting moment. An impulse stirred within him, and, on a whim, he cantered to his random curiosity. "Considering your tendency to act in discretion, I presumed you would have ingeniously concealed the talisman upon my garment, rather than make a plea."
There was a brief pause, a hint of amusement flitting across the woman's features. "I must admit, the thought did come to my mind. However, given your astute nature and attention to detail, I am certain you would undoubtedly notice and discard the talisman if I attempted to place it discreetly. Honesty seems to be my only viable option."
"How perceptive." Bringing the conversation to a close, Sesshomaru released his hold on the Black Pearl, letting it succumb to the pull of gravity and dropping onto the ground next to his feet. He was about to instruct Jaken to pass his Nintoujo and open the doorway to his desired destination when the vicinity around the artifact warped and manifested a passageway.
Despite his composed demeanor, he was inwardly caught off guard by this unexpected turn of events. The fact that he didn't need to make any effort to open the gateway was surprising. The ease of access to his father's grave could be convenient in the future, opening to potential uses. Apparently, Hosenki II had not only remade the Black Pearl but had upgraded its functions. The son had exceeded his father's achievements, a feat that the daiyoukai believed was impossible for Inuyasha.
"K-Kikyo, are you leaving?"
While Sesshomaru wasn't one to engage in superstition, the timing of Inuyasha's inquiry felt as if a curse had orchestrated it, summoning him from the daiyoukai's fleeting reflection. How else could his half-brother be so perfectly timed to make his ostentatious presence known? The portal manifesting from the Black Pearl might be a difficult sight to miss, though Sesshomaru had assumed that Inuyasha's entire focus would've been on his mate, and therefore blind to all else as he usually was.
Kikyo turned her head, looking over her shoulder to see Inuyasha, who was supporting Kagome.
"Yes," she answered, her tone soft yet brimming with unshakeable conviction. "This senseless battle will never cease unless we find the perpetrator."
Her response left the hanyou unsatisfied, his eyes darting between the miko and the daiyoukai with a blend of concern, uncertainty, and skepticism evident in his features. "And... you're truly okay with going along with Sesshomaru? Is that what you really want?"
"Yes. It is." A firm nod, accompanied by the reply that stashed away the doubt in his heart.
'Sesshomaru didn't force her to do anything. It's clear this is what she wants...' There was a bitter tingle in Inuyasha's tongue as it moved, trying but failing to formulate any words. What more was there to say? Kikyo had made her decision freely, and Sesshomaru was undoubtedly more than capable of managing whatever havoc So'unga was causing.
It would be a sensible choice to entrust the situation to the daiyoukai and remain behind to safeguard his village. However, Inuyasha couldn't shake off the feeling that it wouldn't be right. He asserted that locating the instigator would also contribute to protecting his village — that it would ultimately do more in the long run. Despite the validity of his reasoning, deep down, he knew another motive drove him.
There was no denying that he was still hesitant in his manner of approach. Nevertheless, his growing dissatisfaction fueled his urge and suppressed his insecurity long enough to allow him to speak up. "If you're going to deal with So'unga, then I'll—"
His declaration faltered when the hand gripping onto his tightened and he felt Kagome's stare boring into the side of his face. He caught himself mid-sentence and changed the pronoun, fast. "—we'll go with you. I won't let that cursed sword get away thinking it can mess with us."
"Kagome-chan too?" Sango interjected, her voice an octave higher than the conversational tone due to being within the barrier, which was a little farther away. "But it's dangerous, and you've barely recovered."
Kagome reassured her friend with a gentle smile and shook her head. "I'll be alright. Inuyasha will look out for me. The quicker we can close the portal, the safer it'll be for everyone. Plus, Kikyo might need my assistance again for that."
Since Sango didn't seem completely convinced, the woman from the modern era shifted her gaze to her late predecessor's lookalike, who responded with a swift nod after a moment of contemplation.
"The support will be appreciated."
If it had been entirely up to Kikyo, she would have avoided involving Inuyasha and Kagome. However, desperate times called for desperate measures, and the adage 'beggars can't be choosers' rang true in her situation. Reluctantly, she swallowed her pride and agreed to their participation, earning herself a subtle, narrowing sideways look from Sesshomaru that she discreetly feigned ignorance.
Sango had a retort on her tongue, but Miroku's hand on her shoulder prevented her from speaking. With a reassuring gleam in his eyes, he flashed her a smile before turning his attention to the others. "Then Sango and I will stay behind and guard everyone until your safe return, in case the mayose spell expires."
With his signature grin splitting his face, Inuyasha's confidence returned with the arrival of a clear new objective. "Don't worry about a thing. I'll take care of everything before then."
His enthusiasm didn't spread to Sesshomaru. In fact, the daiyoukai's irritation was barely concealed behind his stoicism. His half-brother would be nothing but trouble. Nonetheless, attempting to dissuade him would be as futile as trying to move mountains. Sesshomaru could, of course, resort to knocking him unconscious, but the duration of his incapacitation remained uncertain. Given his resilience and persistence that felt akin to a cockroach, it was likely that he would make a prompt recovery, leaving the Lord of the West with a never-ending task of sweeping him aside like trash at every turn.
"I'll handle So'unga." Left without a better solution, Sesshomaru was quick to lay the boundaries of his tolerance, with no room for negotiation.
"That's fine," acknowledged Kikyo.
"The hell it is!" With a contrasting attitude to the arrangement was the bristling Inuyasha. As the one who typically charged into danger first, he refused to accept the minor role while his pesky sibling faced the main threat — or as Kagome would call it, the 'boss fight'.
His loud objection fell on deaf ears as the Beast King stepped into the portal without another word and vanished into the distorted space.
The moment the gateway swallowed up the daiyoukai's figure, it began to diminish in size. Recognizing that time was of the essence, Kikyo promptly handed Asuka two identical talismans that she had given Sesshomaru before issuing both of her servants a series of mental commands.
Heeding, Kochou reinforced the barrier she was maintaining. Meanwhile, her twin quickly approached Inuyasha and Kagome to deliver the items in her grasp before diving straight into the shrinking portal, following her master.
"Inuyasha, we need to hurry too," Kagome said as she secured the talisman in her possession and allowed Inuyasha to scoop her into his arms. Trusting in her spouse's strength, she embraced the profound security Inuyasha granted as she was carried into the unknown, towards the imminent battle lying ahead.
Inuyasha: After taking care of the undead and passing through the portal, we finally return to the place between this world and the next.
Kagome: Unexpectedly, we come face to face with a phantom of Inuyasha and Sesshomaru's past
Inuyasha: What the heck are they up to?
So'unga: I am far too powerful, wielding a power and skills that exceed your own.
Kikyo: Tenseiga… sever… the thread…
Sesshomaru: It ends now.
Kagome: Next on Inuyasha, "Joined Forces! The Trial of Hell!".
Sesshomaru: Begone.
More Author's Notes: Poor Inuyasha is going through the five stages of grief in a short interval, and he's only been introduced two chapters ago. First denying Kikyo's existence, believing it to be a trick from Sesshomaru, and then getting angry upon being called a fool. To the bargaining stage where he thinks of the possibility that Kikyo has actually been revived but is under Sesshomaru's control. Then hitting the depression state when he cannot fathom the reason for how she looks at Sesshomaru. Now, we can only hope that he finds acceptance... And whether or not that will be as soon as the next chapter will be something we will find out then.
On that topic, it shouldn't be a surprise at this point that there will be a lot of action coming up. While I'm hoping to keep true to my schedule, there is a high chance I may need more time to write since fights are never my strength in writing. So I would like to apologize in advance and until next time!