Naraku's voice reverberated throughout the area, followed by his chilling laughter. "So, has Inuyasha met his end?" he taunted, his presence felt before he materialized in front of Hosenki within his barrier, surrounded by swirling energy of red, purple, and black. Kagome, arrow notched, prepared to confront him.
"Naraku!" she shouted, her voice ringing with determination. "You should know better! Inuyasha wasn't killed, not even close." Channeling most of her reiki into the arrow, she released it, watching anxiously as it flew toward Naraku. To her dismay, it passed through him without leaving a mark.
Her heart sank. Was her spiritual power not strong enough? Or was Naraku simply too powerful to be affected?
Naraku merely smirked in response. "Such a troublesome woman you are," he sneered, his arrogance palpable. "Poor Hosenki, it seems as though you have been weakened by a half demon and a human priestess."
Hosenki extended his arm of adamant toward Naraku, the sharp tip piercing through the barrier and Naraku's body, sinking into his chest.
"How is this possible?" Sango questioned in astonishment.
"I acknowledge that you were a formidable demon in your time," Naraku responded coolly. "I must say, I'm impressed and surprised by your strength to still resist me."
A tentacle slithered out from Naraku's hand, reaching for the tainted shard coveted by Hosenki. Bright green lightning crackled as the tentacle attempted to bypass Hosenki's defenses.
"Not on my watch! You're not getting that shard!" Kagome declared, releasing an arrow. But before it could reach its target, Hosenki intercepted, launching crystals toward them.
Sango wielded Hiraikotsu to shield Kagome, while Miroku deflected the smaller crystal shards. Kagome felt the pulsing of the jewel shard within Hosenki, witnessing its transformation into a deep black hue, triggering another metamorphosis in him.
"I never thought I'd owe gratitude to a priestess," Naraku smirked, turning his attention to Kagome. "You broke through Hosenki's defenses, weakening him. Even I couldn't access the shard buried within him. With each arrow you fired, you depleted his demonic energy. It seems you're not as weak as I once thought."
"So this was your plan all along!?" Kagome exclaimed, her anger boiling.
"You, Kagome, unwittingly facilitated the corruption of the Sacred Jewel. Your actions led to Inuyasha's injury, which in turn tainted the shard," Naraku explained, his sinister grin widening.
Kagome clenched her jaw in frustration as she faced Naraku, his demonic features accentuated by his transformation. He seemed determined to shed his human side and embrace his full demonic power, just like Inuyasha had once wanted.
"Wasn't that the Wind Scar?" Miroku's voice broke through Kagome's thoughts, prompting her to look up and see Inuyasha standing atop another fallen bird.
"Naraku, you bastard," Inuyasha snarled.
"So you're still alive, huh? But it seems you've taken quite the beating," Naraku taunted, his voice echoing through the desolate battlefield.
Inuyasha's eyes blazed with fury as he clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white around the hilt of the Tessaiga. "You got cocky and slithered out of that filthy hole," he shot back, his voice dripping with disdain for his nemesis.
Naraku's smirk widened, his gaze never leaving Inuyasha. "Ah, but I am far from being defeated by the likes of you," he sneered, reveling in the chaos he had wrought.
The air crackled with tension as Inuyasha prepared to unleash his signature attack. "Wind Scar!"
But before the devastating wave of energy could reach Naraku, the air seemed to ripple and distort around him. Miroku's voice cut through the din of battle, a warning laced with urgency. "Naraku is going to use the same technique he used at Mount Hakurei to deflect Inuyasha's Wind Scar!"
A wicked grin spread across Naraku's face as he anticipated the impending clash. "You will be sliced to bits by the very Wind Scar you created," he taunted, his voice dripping with malice.
Kagome's heart pounded in her chest as she watched the unfolding confrontation, her hands trembling as she notched an arrow in her bow. But before she could release her shot, a gut-wrenching scream tore through the air.
"INUYASHA!"
Her eyes widened in horror as she witnessed Hosenki's corrupted form lunge forward, his blackened head impaling Inuyasha with razor-sharp blades of adamant. Blood spurted from multiple wounds as Inuyasha's body convulsed in agony, his anguished cries echoing across the battlefield.
Rage and despair surged within Kagome as she watched her beloved comrade suffer, a sense of helplessness washing over her like a tidal wave.
"Inuyasha, your Wind Scar, the barrier-breaking Red Tessaiga, and the Backlash Wave are all useless against me. You have nothing left!" Naraku's taunting words cut through the tense atmosphere, his confidence bordering on arrogance.
Kagome's hand trembled as she drew her bowstring, her arrow aimed at the small tentacle reaching for the final shard. With determination, she released the arrow, but her efforts were met with futility as Naraku's miasma enveloped the area, thwarting her attack.
"Damn you, Naraku!" Sango's voice rang out with fury, her anger palpable as she watched the enemy manipulate the situation.
With a callous gesture, Naraku flung Hosenki's severed head, along with Inuyasha, into the gaping hole that had been the demon's dwelling. "I have no use for you anymore," he declared, his indifference chilling to the bone.
"You won't escape!" Miroku's voice was laced with defiance as he ripped off the prayer beads from his hand, ready to confront Naraku.
Naraku's eyes gleamed with malice as he unleashed his horde of Saimyosho, presenting a grim choice to the group. "Choose for yourselves. Will it be a swift death by the poisonous sting of the Saimyosho, or would you prefer to linger in this graveyard for all eternity?"
Kagome's heart sank at the thought of being separated from Sesshomaru, her mind racing with fear and uncertainty. But amidst her despair, a glimmer of hope flickered within her. Surely Sesshomaru would come to her rescue. He wouldn't allow her to be trapped in this desolate place forever.
"What do you mean by that, Naraku?" Miroku demanded, his voice edged with determination.
"The river of blood that you and I crossed has ceased to flow. You cannot return to the world of men from whence you came," Naraku explained, his tone dripping with malevolence.
Myoga's panicked voice echoed Kagome's thoughts, confirming her worst fears. "You see!? I told you we might not be able to return!"
But Miroku's resolve remained unyielding as he defiantly declared, "You say the path is closed, but I doubt it. We will find a way back to the land of the living!"
Gasping, Kagome whipped her head around. The familiar pull of the soul bond between Sesshomaru and herself tugged at her heartstrings. She felt her reiki thrumming through her very blood, a mixture of longing and desperation rising within her.
"Naraku, don't think you're gonna get away!" Inuyasha's voice erupted with fury.
"Don't you understand, Inuyasha? It's all over," Naraku taunted, heedless of the Dragon Strike hurtling toward him.
"Sesshomaru!" Kagome's voice pierced through the chaos, calling out to him.
On his cloud, Sesshomaru surged forward, his sword drawn, a flicker of determination in his cold gaze. Kagome glanced to see Naraku, nervous and afraid, focusing all his attention on him.
"Lord Sesshomaru, did you rush over to save your kid brother?" Naraku's taunting words cut through the air like a blade. "Such a kind sibling coming to the rescue."
Surprisingly, Sesshomaru flew past Naraku, his focus fixed on the desecrated corpse of his Father. Anger boiled within him as he beheld the damage wrought upon their sacred resting place. Without hesitation, he descended, landing beside Inuyasha, his actions swift and decisive.
With a sharp thrust of his sword into the ground and a powerful punch across Inuyasha's face, Sesshomaru sent his brother flying backward, his expression a mask of unyielding resolve.
Miroku swiftly grabbed Kagome off the demon bird, flying her to Inuyasha's side. As they drew closer, Inuyasha began to stir, his ears twitching in irritation.
"What the hell was that for!?" Inuyasha growled, confusion etched into his features.
"You have desecrated and defiled our Father's final resting place," Sesshomaru's voice was cold and clipped, his disapproval evident in his reprimanding tone.
Inuyasha, ashamed, flattened his ears against his head. It was a sufficient answer in Sesshomaru's opinion before he turned, just in time to catch Kagome, as she ran, tears in her eyes, in his arms.
"Sesshomaru," Kagome's hands gripped his kimono tightly, her eyes filled with concern. "How did you get here?"
"This one will explain later, koi," Sesshomaru replied, his voice softening slightly.
He felt a wave of relief wash over him as he buried his nose in her long silky hair, her scent of cherry blossoms and vanilla permeating his senses. Slipping his hands under her shirt, he dug his claws into her warm skin, and dragged her body flushed against his. His hold on her was gentle but still possessive. The warmth of her body pressed against his, calming the storm raging within him. The guilt of having allowed her to be taken haunted him, but in this moment, he found solace in her presence.
Kagome pulled away slightly, her fingers tracing the markings on his face. "I am sorry for worrying you," she whispered softly.
"This one apologizes for putting you in danger," Sesshomaru murmured, his nose nudging against hers in a tender gesture.
"No need for an apology," Kagome leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to the crescent moon on his forehead.
Knowing she didn't fully comprehend the significance of her actions, Sesshomaru suppressed the urge to purr in response. Instead, he gently took one of her hands, pressing a kiss to her palm. "Stay here, koi," he commanded softly, his gaze filled with a mix of affection and concern.
She nodded, her expression filled with worry. "Please be careful," she pleaded, her voice laced with genuine concern for his safety.
As Kagome watched Sesshomaru leap onto the rock opposite Naraku, her heart swelled with a tumultuous mix of emotions. Fear clawed at her chest, its icy grip threatening to suffocate her. Yet, amidst the fear, a deep-seated admiration and unwavering faith in Sesshomaru bloomed within her. She knew he possessed unparalleled strength, cunning, and determination.
Turning her focus back to the unfolding confrontation, Kagome felt a surge of determination coursing through her veins. Naraku's malicious laughter echoed ominously around them, a chilling reminder of the imminent danger they faced.
"So the rumors were true," Naraku smirked, his tone dripping with contempt. "You have fallen for a human, a priestess no less."
Sesshomaru's gaze hardened as he regarded Naraku with disdain. "Only vermin hide behind women and children."
The sharp retort seemed to strike a nerve with Naraku, his expression twisting into a scowl. "Just like your Father, you have sullied yourself by fraternizing with a human woman."
Sesshomaru's response was swift and cutting. "Yet this is coming from a half-breed who relies on others to do his dirty work and depends on the sacred jewel shards for power."
"Young One," Hosenki's disembodied head called out. "Do you still have the strength to fight?"
"Huh?" Inuyasha responded, caught off guard by the unexpected question.
Hosenki reverted to his original form, his voice grave. "Unless something is done, the impure shard will be assimilated into the jewel."
"We're aware of that," Inuyasha replied, his tone terse.
"Then slay me before that happens," Hosenki urged. "By slaying me, you will be able to break Naraku's barrier."
"Are you passing on your demonic powers to Inuyasha?" Kagome interjected, her voice laced with concern.
"Yes, it is the only way," Hosenki confirmed.
Kagome recalled how Tessaiga gained additional demonic powers by absorbing the strength of the demons it slayed. With a sense of urgency, Inuyasha issued a command. "Get back, everyone!"
Without hesitation, Inuyasha slammed his sword down, causing adamant shards to cut his body all over. Despite the pain, he remained resolute, his determination burning bright in his fiery gaze. Kagome couldn't help but admire his unwavering resolve, his refusal to yield in the face of overwhelming odds serving as a beacon of inspiration.
As she turned her attention back to the clash between Naraku and Sesshomaru, Kagome watched with a mixture of worry and pride. Sesshomaru effortlessly countered Naraku's attacks, his superiority evident in every fluid motion. When Naraku unleashed clouds of miasma, Kagome knew they posed no threat to Sesshomaru.
"You're not deluded enough to think this pathetic miasma would have any effect on me," Sesshomaru scoffed.
Naraku's smirk remained undeterred. "No matter if it doesn't. What now, Lord Sesshomaru?" he mocked. "The miasma will only increase every time you cut my body, and everyone in this area will perish without fail. Even that little human of yours, whom you are so enamored with."
As tension thickened and the air crackled with anticipation and miasma, Kagome felt a surge of reiki pulsating within her. "Step back, I will purify the air."
With renewed determination, she notched an arrow, her hands steady despite the turmoil raging within her. Focusing her energy, she channeled her reiki into the arrow with unwavering concentration. As she released the arrow, a sense of purpose filled her heart, watching as her spiritual energy dissipated the miasma.
"Naraku," Sesshomaru's gaze lingered on Kagome, her reiki filling the air. "Your arrogance is your downfall. She is more than capable of taking care of herself. I will not hold back my sword."
"And the others?" Naraku's voice dripped with malice.
"I'm not nearly so sentimental to care, nor are they my responsibility," Sesshomaru's eyes flashed red, his resolve unyielding.
Kagome's heart swelled with gratitude at Sesshomaru's confidence in her, but she had to stave off her exhaustion. Draining her reiki lately, she hadn't trained properly since Naraku's return, and her weakness was showing.
"So it doesn't matter to you if everyone dies? You're showing your true colors as a full-blooded demon, Lord Sesshomaru," Naraku taunted with glee.
"Naraku, you will be defeated today by my own hand," Sesshomaru declared firmly.
Kagome shot two more arrows before collapsing in exhaustion.
"I've got this now, Kagome," Inuyasha patted her on the head as he walked by, although cut up and bleeding everywhere. He raised his sword. "I'll protect you."
"Inuyasha..." Kagome murmured weakly, her voice barely audible.
"WIND SCAR!" Inuyasha unleashed his new technique, Adamant Barrage, shattering Naraku's barrier with hundreds of adamant shards plunging into his chest.
"Curse you," Naraku hissed, weakened.
"I see you no longer have the strength to put up a barrier," Sesshomaru smirked, flying towards him. "Just as I said. That arrogance of yours will turn out to be your downfall." Naraku growled in frustration, straining to move. "And I will be the one to deal the finishing blow!"
Narrowing her eyes, Kagome spotted the jewel shard near Naraku's remains. The arrow that Kikyo had given her began to glow and pulse. Instinctively, she poured the rest of her reiki into it, watching as the tip shimmered with a pink-purple hue. The arrow soared into the air, connecting with Naraku and causing an electrifying reaction that illuminated the battlefield with a bright light.
Exhausted, Kagome collapsed to her knees, having expended the last of her energy. She smiled weakly in relief before everything went dark.
As Kagome slowly roused from her slumber, the warmth of the sunlight enveloped her, casting a golden glow in the small cave where she found herself. Blinking her eyes open, she took in her surroundings, realizing she was nestled in an extravagant room, surrounded by plush furs.
Surveying herself, she noticed she was still clad in the same dress she had worn in the Netherworld. Confusion washed over her as she tried to recall how she ended up here.
Gingerly, Kagome attempted to rise, only to be met with a tingling sensation coursing through her limbs. Her legs felt like lead, having been asleep for an extended period. With patience, she waited for the sensation to dissipate before attempting to walk, each step a slow and deliberate process.
As she reached for the door, it swung open abruptly, revealing Rin standing before her with a bright smile. "You're awake!" Rin exclaimed with joy. "I knew you'd wake up soon."
Kagome couldn't help but smile at Rin's cheerful demeanor, noting how she seamlessly switched between her own speech patterns and those of Sesshomaru. It was a charming reminder of the unique bond between them.
"Where are we?" Kagome inquired, her voice hoarse from disuse.
"We're in a demon village near Lord Sesshomaru's castle," Rin replied cheerfully.
"Castle?" Kagome's brow furrowed in confusion.
"Yes, you've been asleep for a whole day," Rin informed her.
"And where is everyone else?" Kagome glanced around the room, her curiosity piqued.
"Master Inuyasha went to see someone, while Lady Sango is in the village with Master Miroku," Rin explained. "Shippo and I were playing games with Jaken, but I wanted to come check on you."
"And where is Sesshomaru?" Kagome inquired, her heart skipping a beat at the mention of his name.
"He went to his castle, but he told me to tell you that he would be back soon," Rin replied with a reassuring smile.
Nodding in understanding, Kagome shifted the conversation. "Can you show me where the bath is?"
"Can I bathe with you, Mommy?" Rin's eyes sparkled with excitement.
Kagome smiled warmly at Rin's request. "Of course you can."
Making their way to the bathing area, Kagome and Rin stripped down before slipping into the soothing embrace of the hot spring. Along one side of the bath, Kagome noticed a wall adorned with an array of shiny bottles filled with colorful liquids, each one catching the light in a mesmerizing display.
Kagome took her time tenderly washing Rin's hair, marveling at how long it had grown since the young girl had joined their journey. As she gently massaged shampoo into Rin's locks, she couldn't help but smile at the girl's contented sighs.
Once Rin's hair was thoroughly cleansed, Kagome passed her a bar of soap, allowing her to wash herself while she turned her attention to her own hair. As she lathered her own long hair, her mind wandered to their recent ordeal in the Netherworld.
Sesshomaru's decisive actions had undoubtedly led them out of the netherworld realm, just as he had entered. Inuyasha, on the other hand, had likely sought out Kikyo to inform her of the events that transpired at the graveyard. The fact that Naraku had not been vanquished only served to confirm their suspicions that the infant was indeed Naraku's heart.
After they had dried off and changed into fresh clothes, Rin twirled around in a light pink kimono adorned with delicate purple and yellow flowers, her laughter filling the air. Kagome, dressed in a simple navy blue sweater tucked into a black skirt, smiled warmly at the girl's infectious joy.
Hand in hand, Kagome allowed Rin to lead her on a small tour of the place. They explored several rooms, each adorned with intricate demon craftsmanship, a testament to the unique culture of the inhabitants. A serene garden welcomed them with vibrant blossoms and lush greenery, providing a tranquil escape from the outside world. In the dining room, or their version of it, ornate tables and chairs hinted at gatherings filled with laughter and camaraderie. The kitchen bustled with activity, the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air, enticing their senses. Finally, they found themselves in a cozy lounging room, where plush cushions and soft lighting invited relaxation and conversation.
Noticing the absence of others, Kagome suspected that Sesshomaru had arranged for privacy, perhaps escorting other demons to different quarters for their comfort and convenience. Despite the solitude, Kagome felt a sense of peace settle over her as she explored the unfamiliar surroundings with Rin by her side.
As Kagome settled into a chair at a small table in the garden, a female bear demoness approached with a warm smile, setting down a steaming cup of tea and a plate of meat, dried cheese, and fruit before her. Grateful, Kagome thanked the demoness and began to eat slowly, savoring the flavors while soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the garden.
Her attention drifted to Rin, who had rejoined Shippo in a playful game of chase, their laughter echoing through the air as they darted around the garden. Even Jaken seemed to have joined in on the fun, adding to the lively atmosphere with his enthusiastic antics. Watching them, Kagome couldn't help but smile, grateful for the brief moment of joy.
"Koi," Sesshomaru's deep voice resonated, sending a shiver down her spine.
Turning her head, Kagome met his softened gaze as he stood in the threshold, his imposing figure softened by the absence of his armor. "Sesshomaru..." she murmured, her heart fluttering at the sight of him.
Without hesitation, he moved to sit behind her, his strong arms enveloping her waist as he pulled her into his chest. His legs brushed against hers as he leaned forward, gently rubbing his cheek against hers. "I was worried for you," he confessed softly, his breath warm against her skin.
"I have been expending a lot of my spiritual power lately, neglecting my meditation practices," Kagome admitted, tilting her head to look at him. "How did you find us?"
"I traversed the Realm of Fire," Sesshomaru stated calmly. "Tenseiga reacted to the proximity of the gates, for it is a blade that can save lives—a blade of the netherworld, much like So'unga."
Kagome furrowed her brows in thought. "I wonder why it didn't react when you were there before."
"I had no reason to visit the Netherworld previously," Sesshomaru explained. "My sole purpose was to find and protect you."
A blush crept onto Kagome's cheeks. "Well, I attempted to purify Naraku while I was within the barrier. He became enraged, knocked me out, and threw me from his barrier. Inuyasha rescued me and informed me that you hadn't been able to cross. I feared I would be stranded in the netherworld, never to see you again."
Grasping her chin gently, Sesshomaru locked eyes with her. "My koi," he purred softly. "I would never cease searching for you, until I am certain you are by my side, happy and safe."
He kissed her, his lips warm and firm against hers. She loved the feel of him on her, and she found herself cherishing every moment of it. Being kissed by him was quickly becoming her favorite thing in the world.
Just as Sesshomaru began to lean her down onto the ground, they were interrupted by soft giggling. Breaking apart, Kagome turned to see both Rin and Shippo spying on them from behind a flower bush.
Sesshomaru bared his teeth and playfully snapped at them, causing the two children to shriek with laughter and dart away. Kagome blushed but couldn't suppress a smile at their antics.
"How was your business at the castle?" she asked, reaching for more food as her stomach rumbled.
"It was quite tedious," Sesshomaru replied, pouring himself a cup of tea. "My attendants were constantly at my heels, pestering me for various matters."
"When this is all over, will you return to your castle?" Kagome inquired, munching on some sweet green grapes.
"I have never enjoyed staying in one place for long," he stated. "I was bred to be a warrior, not a Lord. However, if my mother had her way, I would be at the castle, presiding over courtly matters."
"And what about us?" Kagome pressed.
Sesshomaru placed a soft kiss behind her ear, sending shivers down her spine. "You will accompany me to the castle for a time, along with Rin and Shippo. Afterward, we will be free to do as we please."
"What if I wanted to stay at the castle? To have stability and stay in one place?"
Sesshomaru's eyes softened, he dragged his nose across her cheek. "Wherever you are, I will follow koi, you are mine just as I am yours."
Kagome felt a warmth spread through her at his words, a feeling of reassurance washing over her like a soothing wave. His declaration held a depth of sincerity that touched her deeply, reassuring her that she wasn't alone in her desires and aspirations.
Leaning into his touch, Kagome closed her eyes, savoring the moment of closeness. The idea of stability and permanence, of creating a home with Sesshomaru, stirred something within her—a longing for a life filled with love, security, and shared experiences.
As she imagined their future together, a sense of contentment settled over her. The thought of staying at the castle held a certain appeal. It would be a place where they could build memories together, where their bond could flourish amidst the tranquility of their surroundings.
Yet, even as she entertained the notion of settling down, Kagome couldn't shake the adventurous spirit that had always been a part of her. The world was vast and full of wonders waiting to be discovered, and she longed to explore it alongside Sesshomaru.
With a smile, Kagome nestled closer to Sesshomaru, unable to stop herself from smiling as she slowly finished her plate while watching the children play.