Finding Faith (Yuyu Hakusho/Inuyasha, Kagome/Hiei, #5)
Fandom: Yuyu Hakusho/Inuyasha
Title: Finding Faith
Author: Aoshis_toy
Theme: #5 True Love (Seeking You)
Pairing: Hiei/Kagome
Disclaimer: I do not own or profit from Yuyu Hakusho or Inuyasha or the characters..
Summary: Sequel to Fall of Faith
Yomi shifted his weight as the pair went by him at a high speed. The woman beside him merely grunted at the display of force. The two were almost equally matched, Hiei still having the upper-hand due to experience and age. Three months ago he’d come upon Mukuro’s mobile fortress as it moved through the West. Being polite he’d stopped in for a chat, wanting to hear all the news of the upcoming tournament. He wasn’t disappointed that it was still scheduled to take place in two months time. He however was surprised to see how greatly Hiei had improved. It left him wanting to train his son harder. Shura’s unnatural birth gave him excessive power at his age. Still seeing how fast Hiei had improved in such a short time, he knew his son could do better if only given the encouragement. "What news of Enki?"
"He plans on competing again. Something has changed his mind, we are unsure of what it is as of yet. My spies are due to report next week. From what I gather the turn-out this year will be greater than the last. Many fools willing to have a moment in the spotlight even if it means death. Your son has improved greatly." Mukuro commented, seeing the young boy manage to land a solid hit into the hybrid’s gut. She was thankful for the blind man’s company. The daily excessive training kept Hiei’s mind off other things. The man was plagued with guilt and remorse. She couldn’t understand why, the human had been forced upon him. Not as if he’d chosen the girl because he wanted her. Koenma should have known better than to order a human into the Makai. Yusuke and Kurama were disliked because of their human taint. What could be expected when you throw a pathetic human female into a world full of youkai? Still the koorime felt as if he’d done a great wrong. Then being denied the revenge of killing the one responsible.
She watched over him daily, to make sure he didn’t do anything foolish. She wasn’t worried about suicide or the like. The worry of him losing his temper and killing some of her men, that was an issue. It had happened twice already. The man was her top general, so he was more important. Hiring more underlings was a pain in the ass because he couldn’t control his anger. The next tournament was fast approaching, an excuse to wear the man out when the need called for it. Word had it that many of the sleeping youkai were coming back to the surface. Those stronger than herself and Yomi, were coming out to play. Those that had long lost ambition and the will to fight. The probing question was, why? "There is still no word on the force gathering in the North. They haven’t made any moves or demands."
"My scout says it is only about twenty or so, all following one. I don’t think they will be that much of a threat. I’m sure if a crisis arose Urameshi will no doubt come back along with Kurama. With mine and your former kingdoms alliance, we are a force to reckon with. Raizen’s former followers will assemble if his heir demands it. Shura, improve your form, your defense is slacking son." Yomi growled when the boy was knocked back into the trees. Hiei didn’t give him time to recover, delivering another crushing blow. He’d told his son many times to watch his defense as well as offense. The boy was more concerned about attacking usually leaving himself open for a counterattack. It was something that needed working on badly if he is to survive. "Get up!"
Hiei didn’t give the boy the chance. His hand gripped the slender ankle yanking him into the air. Without pause he tossed him putting force behind it. The boy grunted as he was released and shot through the air. Shura was the perfect patsy in which he could relieve some of the stress. The boy was too cocky to be any real challenge. With lack of sleep he was already growing tired from the hours of training. Soon, he’d have to call it a day and try to rest. The nightmares might come again but he would have no choice but to risk it. They’d been coming every time he managed to fall asleep. Images of her death consumed his soul. He knew it wasn’t really how she died.
Images of her head being torn off, burnt alive or even maimed. It had to be her in his dreams, it was her voice. The faces were always blurred, the bodies often varied. If it wasn’t for the sound he’d chalk it up to plain nightmares brought on by guilt. The small amount of time he’d been in her company, her voice was what lingered in his recollection. No matter how much he wanted to forget her he wouldn’t allow himself to. It would be his punishment for failing. He’d made a promise and quickly broken it. He should have known better than to leave her without making sure of her safety. He’d been cocky believing none would touch her due to his reputation. It was his fault she’d died.
He evaded the blast of energy aimed at his chest. The younger boy was pissed at being used as a punching bag. The fool should learn to defend himself better instead of throwing so many attacks. The boy was going all out on the offensive leaving himself wide open. Getting tired of the game, he waited for his opening. He could sense Yomi’s anger as the boy lost his cool. The man had good reason to get irritated. No matter how much they trained it would do no good if the boy couldn’t fight with a clear head.
He jumped back and stopped when Yomi yelled for a halt in the practice. The man only a few inches taller than himself swore and kicked at the ground. Crossing his arms he waited for the blind man to smack some sense into his clone. Yes, then he’d get a decent challenge. He was surprised Mukuro hadn’t stepped in yet to take over the battle. The wind picked up stirring his hair, the breeze cooling his heated flesh. The open plains were just about turn up from the boy’s wild attacks. The smirk left his face when ringing began in his ears. The annoying sound made him scowl, not this again.
The anguished crying filled his ears making his skin crawl. There was no point in looking around for the source, it was coming from inside his head. Rubbing his temples he will the voice to be silent. Was he cracking up? Or was the jagan picking up on something near? It had been like this since her death. Every once in a while he’d pick up on strange sounds, usually crying. Mukuro said it was his guilt causing him to hear illusions and things that weren’t there. She was a stronger clairvoyant than himself and she heard nothing. "Dammit, Mukuro I am leaving. Think I need to get some rest."
"Very well." She nodded towards the koorime. He looked exhausted, some sleep would do him good. Maybe Yomi would feel up for a round. The man didn’t look too happy as he spoke to his son. Chuckling she walked on over to the quarreling pair. Maybe with any luck she’d get some play time in with the blind man. Her eyes lingered over the round curve of his backside. Shame he was a cold tyrant and believed in ejaculating in jars to reproduce.
Hiei found a branch not far from where the fortress had stopped. The tree provided enough shade to keep him cool. Settling against the rough bark, his eyes closed. The annoying weeping had finally stopped so he could concentrate on getting some sleep. Blasting was heard in the distance as Yomi’s and Mukuro’s auras were raised. With any luck both would keep themselves occupied for a few hours. He found it strange that the two that were once enemies seemed to enjoy spending mass amounts of time together lately. Smirking, he let the darkness claim him, allowing slumber to take control.
His eyes opened hearing the sound of tears. Was it that infernal weeping again? The tree was no longer under him and the flat plain was replaced by a forest. Where the hell was he? The fortress was nowhere in sight, nor could he sense Mukuro or the others. Swearing he took in his surroundings, the trees went on for miles. The sky was an odd pink color, unlike anything he’d seen before. He picked up on several other unknown auras, many of them youkai. Two of them sacred, one very weak, the other exceptionally strong. The closest was the large pure energy, coming towards him slowly.
Curiosity got the better of him and he took off towards the aura. He wanted answers and he wanted them now. Like how the hell did he get here and where here was. The trees seemed endless as he sprinted towards the being. If he was correct it was human. The other human was a great distance away, not worth pursuing at the moment. The tree line broke into a grassy field. Tall grass that reached his knees swayed in wind that he couldn’t feel. The plant life was moving but he couldn’t feel the caress of the wind upon his face. His eyes searched the area, looking for his prey. In the middle of the grove the woman stood. All he could make out was long dark hair, her back facing him. Raising his voice he demanded an answer, "Where the hell am I?"
Kagome stilled at the voice, not wanting to believe her ears. It couldn’t be him, not here. It was most likely her mind playing tricks on her yet again. Many days passed and she’d be thinking, his voice would enter her mind. Most of the time it happened when she was crying. Then he’d rudely be telling her to shut up. Maybe she should go have a talk with Midoriko about it. Maybe her heart was longing to see a face that she’d known in her life. How much time had passed since she’d died? That’s what she called it even if the other miko called it a simple transgression. She’d been robbed of her human form and brought her against her will. One reason she’d kick Inuyasha’s ass if she ever saw him again. After waking up and finding the ancient miko staring down at her with a sorrowful look the truth had been revealed to her.
That day she’d been dying, the man was killing her. The jewel feeling threatened had acted upon itself. Being bonded with her soul, if she died and her soul gone; it would cease to exist. As she took her last breath, it had pulled her in. Same as it had with Midoriko’s and the many youkai that had been combined in that battle. Miroku had once said the souls still waged a war inside. Damn the man didn’t know how right he’d been. The war had all but stopped, the souls within being drained of their power. Once her soul and body had been absorbed it had reclaimed it’s former strength and power. Their power used up but the tortured souls still remained. Now she was just one of them, doomed to dwell in this plane of existence.
"Answer me dammit, where am I?" Hiei scowled as the female kept staring off into the distance. Was she deaf or being annoying on purpose? No matter how powerful she thought she was, he didn’t like being ignored. He didn’t like this place, wherever it was. There was sound but it seemed hollow, no depth to it. Taking a step forward the woman finally turned around slowly. The long white gown she wore moved in the strange wind. As it rushed between them, the hair was blown from her face. "You?!"
"Figures, you didn’t bother to ask my name when I was alive. I guess You is fitting for now." Kagome sighed at the small man. So he was here but that didn’t explain how. Even if he did happen to get his happy ass killed, his soul wouldn’t come here. Was he a figment of her imagination? That was the only answer she could come up with for now. In this place where time seemed to stand still and there was no night. All she did was exist and watch the world go on without her. She’d once thought it strange when Kikyou had spoken to them of Midoriko’s will. While the fight with Naraku had been going on the shards had started acting on their own accord. The two embedded in Kouga’s legs had almost killed him when he was being attacked by the dark hanyou. Kikyou had said it was Midoriko’s will that the jewel be completed and purified. Also, when they’d been looking for the very last shard that had yet to be located things had come to light. The youkai known as Housenki had taken it with him upon his death, the jewel fragment having spoke to him. Saying it wanted to remain out of reach of an evil presence. The will at work had been that of Midoriko’s. The miko trapped inside being fully aware of the transpiring events around her.
Kagome was already tired of being aware of the killing and fighting going on around her. While she was powerless to do anything about it but watch. What hurt the most was knowing that the man holding the jewel now was using the power to kill. It was horrifying, she didn’t know how Midoriko had been able to withstand it for so long. Feeling the hate and malice coming from those that touched it made her heart ache. The one holding it felt nothing but those two emotions and the need to kill. If not for the power her own soul provided, the man wouldn’t have any use for the bauble.
"Hn, I must be dreaming. You are dead, there is no other explanation for this. I’ll just stand here until I wake up." The guilt washed over him at the words. She had a point, he still didn’t know her name. He’d never bothered to ask it of her or Koenma. There was no doubt that it was her standing in front of him. She looked exactly the same as the day she’d died. Why was he dreaming of her? Was his guilt causing him to have nightmares? "Are you going to plague me with more nightmares of watching you die?"
"Why would I do that?" She was stunned at the question. If she’d conjured him up with her imagination she didn’t want him to say that. No, she wanted him to be nice and pleasant to keep her company. Midoriko was pleasant enough company on occasion but the other miko preferred her solitude. Besides why would she want him to watch her die, it had been a horrid way to go. She wouldn’t wish that upon anyone. Least of all want someone to see it. "I’m not sure what you are doing here. But it’s nice to have company."
"Spare me the lies. Why else would I be here. This is just the beginning of another nightmare. So go ahead and do it so I can wake up." He hated those dreams, he didn’t want to see another. Yet if that was why he was here it was best to get it over with. Seeing death in itself didn’t bother him, just knowing that he was being shown that he’d failed her. She was dead because he hadn’t been there. He’d brought her to her death and walked away without a care.
"And you told me I talk too much. I’d rather just sit here if that’s okay with you. Even if you can’t wait to see me die, I’d rather not accommodate you right now, maybe some other time." She smiled at his shocked expression. Hell she wasn’t dismembering herself just to please her imagination. At least her Hiei was staying true to form and being an asshat. How was the real one doing? She’d never knew much about him. Either way it beat being alone for some time. It was company for the time being. "What kind of nightmares was it?"
"Hn, watching you die over and over again in many ways. Guess it’s your way of making sure I was feeling guilty over you being killed." He grunted as she appeared shocked at the statement. This form of her was playing games with him. Would she soon start yelling at him before dying before his very eyes? Hurling accusations of his failures before tormenting him? The large blue eyes looked him over making him feel lacking.
"Why would I want that? I don’t blame you. You didn’t cause my death. I know why I was killed and it had nothing to do with you. I am thankful that you weren’t there to share my fate. I hold no anger towards you Hiei." She smiled, it warmed her that he might regret her dying if only if it was in her imagination. Guilt wasn’t something she ever wished for him to feel. She didn’t think he would have willingly left her there to die. No if he’d wanted her death he could have done so himself the moment they’d stepped into the Makai. Circumstances beyond both of their control had brought her this fate. If he was alive and well then she held no ill-will towards him.
"Impossible, even if it was against my wishes I took you as my mate. It was my duty to protect you. I left without making sure you would be safe. It is my fault for leaving you there, I have every reason to feel guilty. You may have been a lousy lay but you didn’t deserve to die in such a manner." He grunted when she began laughing at the insult. He was officially losing what common sense he had. The dream was so unlike the others it was mind boggling. He could contend with the decapitated form of her but this one was unlike anything he’d encountered before.
"Yes, I guess I was. I was kind of in a bad mood that day. I guess just like you I was forced to do something I didn’t wish for. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you. I should have been mature and dealt with it the best way I could. Besides it was my first time, I didn’t know what to do." She remembered that day very well. Up until he’d entered her his touch had been enjoyable. It was supposed to be painful the first time, not his fault entirely. They both could have done things differently but the past was the past. No need to dwell upon it. "Also I know you wouldn’t have left me there if you’d have known I’d die. You shouldn’t be so hard on yourself. Tell you what I’ll forgive you if you do two things for me."
"What?" Even if it was only a dream it eased some of his anguish hearing those words. Was it possible to make up for what he’d done? Could he hope that she’d be able to forgive him in some form. Or was this where the dream would begin to go terribly wrong? Would she ask for his death in return for her own? Or be forced to watch her kill herself in this world?
"First off call me Kagome, that’s my name. I know I’m a female but girl or You doesn’t go over too well." she walked over to him. Taking the steps slowly in hopes he wouldn’t run or disappear. As she got within distance of the man, she reached out. The hands held no warmth in this plane but felt heavy in her palms. Would he do as she asked or was she losing it? "Also, will you visit me again?"
The blast shattered the ground next to the tree snapping him awake. His groggy mind forced him to leap out of the way. Instantly alert he scanned the area, looking for the threat. He picked up the aura before he saw the woman in question. Cursing, he relaxed, his blood rushing too quick for his liking. Part of him still felt like he was dreaming. Blinking a few times, he took in his surroundings. He was back in the same spot in which he’d chosen for his bed. There was a large hole next to his appointed mattress but nothing else was out of place. The pair continued to spar in the distance unaware they’d just disturbed his slumber.
It was just a dream after all. Figures, the girl wouldn’t forgive him. No one was that forgiving. Yet his hands still tingled from the slight touch in which they’d received. He could still feel the hands holding his. How could a dream be that vivid? It wasn’t like the nightmares or the others. She was dead there was nothing he could do about it. He’d failed her, Kagome was dead because of him. "Kagome?"
How did he know her name? Had she really spoken to him and divulged the information? He hadn’t bothered to ask or probe her mind for the information. The only way for it to be possible for him to gain it now was if she’d freely spoken it. Was she still alive somewhere? They’d never found a body but hadn’t she admitted to dying? No answers came to him as he dwelled upon the dream. The tournament was only a few weeks away, he couldn’t let this distract him. But could he just ignore it? No, he had to know the truth. One way was to find out her real name. There was only person that could tell him for sure.
Koenma scowled at the hybrid as he stormed into the room. The last person he wanted to see now. This was all his fault, he was sorely responsible for it. His backside was sore and he had a migraine that would last for centuries to come. He could only assume that Hiei was coming to tell him that the girl was dead. Been dead if his informants were correct. The man had let her die the same day. He was disappointed in his former team member. "Get out Hiei, I do not wish to see you right now. Haven’t you caused enough trouble?"
"Hn, so I guess you know that she is dead." The scowl the toddler sent his way made it concrete. So it had to be a dream the girl was dead. Body or no, she wasn’t alive any longer. He still needed to know about the dream and her name. The man might have some answers, explaining the nightmares and how he could have spoken to the girl. "Did her soul arrive?"
"Of course not you fool. Don’t you pay attention to anything. If you’d done your part we wouldn’t be in this mess now." Koenma stammered as he tossed the stamp towards the man. He wasn’t sure how much to tell him but wasn’t willing to let him know everything his father was planning. "Look I guess some of it is our fault for not telling you everything. If you will grant me a few minutes I’ll tell you what I can. Kagome had was the reincarnation of a powerful miko. When she was fifteen she traveled back in time, where she learned of her true nature. That miko was Kikyou, the original protector of the Shikon no Tama. It was a powerful jewel born from another known as Midoriko. Midoriko was a powerful miko but met a tragic fate. About to lose in a fight against many youkai that had combined in order to defeat her, she pulled it’s soul and her own out. From that the jewel was born. Within it’s depth a war of souls waged on, the power so great it allowed it’s holder use of that power. It was fought over for centuries until it went to Kikyou. She too met a tragic end and had the jewel burnt with her body. It came back in Kagome centuries later. To make this short Kagome broke the damn thing in the past but managed to save the day and collect all the pieces. In the end she made a wish for someone that didn’t deserve it simply because she loved him. I say she had bad taste in men. "
"Because the wish was made it drained the jewel of it’s power. Because the wish was selfish and done for the wrong reasons the souls inside remained. Unable to exist after being drained it bounded with Kagome’s soul keeping it in this world. When she returned here all her power was gone absorbed by the jewel so it could remain. Who’s to say if she would have gotten it back, she didn’t live long enough to see that far ahead. That is why we placed her with you. While the jewel had lost most of it’s power we feared youkai crossing over into the Ningenkai in order to obtain it. We hoped she’d be safe with you, at least from the low level fools hoping to obtain it." He took a deep breath before continuing, deciding to leave out some information. "Well as you already know the girl was killed in a manner of speaking. The jewel has a will of it’s own, the will of the souls that dwell within. Now when it bonded with the girl’s soul it also linked itself to it. No Kagome, no jewel to be blunt and vice versa. It cannot survive without her or her without it. When she was near death the jewel saw the danger of becoming forfeit. The reason you found no body and there was no soul for us to retrieve is because both are inside the jewel. Our main concern now is that thanks to Kagome’s soul being contained within it has regained it’s former glory and now unleashed upon the Makai."
"Huh, sounds like you have a problem then. Tell me, is it possible for her to speak to me. I recently been having nightmares and dreams. She is in them." Hiei digested the information and waited for the question to be answered. So she hadn’t just been a normal female. He had taken her to her death that day. He’d deposited her in the middle of mid-class youkai that would kill for that kind of power even if it was meager. Anything to increase their own.
"Indeed. With the bond formed between you two, it is still linked spiritually. Her soul still exists just in another realm. I’m guessing with that fake eye you have it is more than possible for you to pick up on her. But the fact still remains, the jewel is a threat. Since you came you can inform Mukuro and Yomi of what you’ve learned from me. We believe the one that has the jewel in his possession will be competing at the tournament. I’m not sure if you are willing to help but we want to get the jewel back and stored in a safe place. I’m not sure if this means anything to you but whomever is using it is drawing off the power from Kagome’s soul. There was nothing left of Midoriko’s power or the youkai within. The power it emits now is almost all hers. Kagome was powerful before the unthinkable happened, shame she lost it all for an unrequited love."
"Fine, I’ll do what I can. I’ll help you get your jewel back but I don’t do it for you. I’ll do it because I owe her. If she is what you say then I doubt she likes knowing her power is being used for evil." Hiei wasn’t sure what he could but try to kill the man that had it in his possession. If he was at the tournament then it would be taken care of then. What else could he do to make up for the mistake? ‘Will you visit me again?’ The question lingered in his mind. Had it really been her he’d been speaking to? Was it possible for him to meet up with her again while dreaming? It was worth a try, if it meant earning her forgiveness.
Koenma watched the man leave with a forlorn expression. Should he have told him the rest? Would Hiei have scoffed if he’d told them that neither him or Mukuro were strong enough to take the man on with the jewel in his possession. No one could defeat him, not anyone alive. Their one hope lie in his father’s plan. It had been Kagome to defeat Naraku, not a youkai. Should he explain the statistics behind it all? Naraku would have been placed as a Class C youkai without the use of the jewel. The man that had now was an upper S without it. The aspects of it was mind blowing, there was no way for them to kill the man. The only way would be to take away the source of the power. Yet they’d be risking the girl if this failed. He had no idea what state she’d be in. Even if it succeeded they’d need her alive to retrieve it from the man. Things didn’t look good for them. He’d let Hiei and the others believe what they wanted.
Kagome whirled at the sound of his voice, he’d came. Smiling she ran across the field, more than happy to see the sour man. With all the negative energy coming from the outside it lightened her heart to have company. She wasn’t sure if she’d be able to conjure him up again. He was wearing something different this time. The black pants were the same but he had on a blue shirt and the cloak was missing. Which was fine with her, she didn’t care for that thing. "You came!"
"Sit down, we need to talk." He looked the miko over. Now he understood why he’d sensed a great aura coming from her the last time. She must have gained her former power when she was absorbed. The flimsy white gown wrapped around her legs as she came to a halting stop. It was sleeveless, only small straps holding it up over her chest. He noticed the small amount of cleavage it showed. It was tempting at the same time making her look sweet. Was it something she’d worn in her former life or what she pictured herself wearing. It stopped short of her knees, leaving some of the long graceful legs to his view. Would she accept the explanation he had to offer.
Kagome sat down upon the hard surface as he began to speak. His words only echoed some of the things she already knew. How she’d gotten here and that someone evil now had the jewel. What stunned her was knowing he was real not something she was conjuring. It was really him sitting there speaking to her. But he’d come back to talk to her. Was it just to let her know what was going on? "So why did you come back?"
"You asked me to." He decided to leave it at that for now. If spending time with her while he slept would make her happy then he would gladly do so to make up for his mistake. It wouldn’t ease all his guilt because no matter how things ended she was still dead and stuck in the jewel. She seemed pleased with the answer and didn’t ask him to go into details. What they would do during those visits were beyond him but as long as she didn’t ask him to play chess he’d comply.
It was more than she could have hoped for. Hiei was a youkai and would live a long time. As long as the jewel remained she’d be stuck here. Having company would help ease some of her pain. She’d probably have to get him to loosen up some but they had plenty of time. Time in which to get to know each other. "Great now that we got that established why don’t you tell me a little about yourself. There really isn’t much to do here so you will have to pass the time by talking to me."
He groaned at that answer. It wasn’t one of his favorite past times. What could it hurt? She was merely asking for some conversation, he could try it. There wasn’t much to tell about himself but he’d answered whatever questions she had. Whatever he told her would stay between them. She was stuck in the jewel and couldn’t go blabbering his business like a certain blue haired ferry girl he knew. "What do you want to know?"
"Is that everything?" Kurama leaned back in the large chair, keeping his eyes on the woman. Koenma had come for him and Yusuke yesterday. The information they’d been given had come as a shock. Neither had known that Hiei had been forced to take a mate. Not only had he’d taken one but she’d died the same day. The girl had been carrying the Shikon which was now in the Makai. They’d been asked in case their assistance was needed. The demi-god was up to something but he wasn’t sure what yet. All he’d told them was that he might need their assistance in getting the artifact back. Adding in that it was the girl’s soul in the thing giving it power.
"No, he informed us that he visited the girl in a dream in which he spoke to her. Koenma says it’s because of the bond. He’s able to reach her soul with the use of the jagan. This was almost a month ago, when we were told. What worries me is his behavior since then. I understand feeling guilty over her death. He blames himself for letting her die." Mukuro scowled as the fox nodded obviously agreeing that Hiei was partly guilty. "Since that happened he has stopped training. He is awake long enough to eat and see to his personal needs. He spends most of his time in a meditated state or asleep. I’m sure he is with her while doing so."
"So Hiei’s spending all his time sleeping talking to a dead chick? I don’t get it, they can’t do anything right." Yusuke asked without pause. He didn’t get it. Okay if Hiei was feeling guilty then he should get the jewel back. What was the point in communicating for so long? It didn’t take that long to get information or come up with a plan.
"Yusuke sometimes I wonder." Kurama chuckled at his dumbfounded look. "I think Mukuro has come to the same conclusion that I just did. She just said all I need to know. Hiei isn’t the type to just spend time with anyone even out of guilt. If she asked it of him then he might do so upon the occasions when sleep claimed him naturally. If what Mukuro says is true then he is going to her of his own accord. By putting himself in a state in which he can, then he’s doing so for another reason. Or am I putting too much into it?"
"No, you are correct. I suggested that he stop doing so. I have never experienced Hiei’s displeasure before but I did when I suggested he do so. He has become obsessed with her for some reason. It isn’t good for him to put his life on hold for something he can never have. He discarded the girl when they first arrived and is now acting like a lovesick puppy. The first few days back he just went when he was sleeping but something has changed within him. As the days went by the more time he spent in his self induced state." Mukuro didn’t want to deny the man a relationship but he was setting himself up for heartache in the end. The girl was dead, they couldn’t change that now. Him getting attached was going to cause trouble.
"In other words Yusuke, Hiei is falling for the girl." Kurama saw Mukuro nod at the assessment. There was no other way to interpret his actions. The man cared for the girl and was spending time with her the only way he could. It wasn’t in Hiei to go out of his way for many. If he was doing so then the girl meant a great deal to him even if the man wouldn’t admit it to himself. "If he refuses to halt the visits I’d say it’s already too late and he’s in love with her. He will not appreciate our interference."
"What?! You’re saying he’s in love with a dead chick. That’s got to suck. I mean how is it possible? It’s not like they are actually seeing each other or something." How the hell could the man love someone that wasn’t real or alive? Yusuke didn’t understand how someone like Hiei could get attached to a dead person.
"You idiot. Are you sure you love the girl you are with? It’s not all physical, none of it is. Even if you get a boner by looking at some girl’s ass doesn’t mean you love her. When the love is true, it is based on your feelings. You should understand that it makes the situation more real. Don’t you get it? Hiei hasn’t been fucking her, it’s not possible since she has no body. What he cares for is the girl’s soul, her personality. With all the time he spends with her, it means he enjoys her company as well. It would be much simpler if it were merely lust driving him. " Mukuro sneered, the man was a moron. She felt pity for the girl he was soon to marry. He’d end up cheating on her before a year was out.
"Exactly. I don’t envy him his situation. In the end he will still be alive and she will remain dead. Shame things turned out this way. I take it the reason he hasn’t shown himself since our arrival is that he’s with her. I’ve no wish to disturb him. But when he does wake we need to press the issue of the Tournament. He needs to be prepared, as do we all." Kurama wasn’t sure what else to say to the man. Hiei wouldn’t like them questioning his methods. Telling the man to give the girl up would hinder their friendship. He’d do what he could. If Mukuro told them about it then she was concerned for him as well.
"I don’t want you to fight." Kagome knew pleading with him wouldn’t help. If one thing she’d learned about the man he did as he pleased. Her showing her worry would probably annoy him but she had to try. If they were going to try to get the jewel back the fight wouldn’t be easy. She could feel the darkness that cloaked him. She couldn’t help but care about the small man. He’d kept his promise and remained with her. Too much but she was grateful for every minute he lingered. It gave her hope that he cared in return. It would get them nowhere but the feelings still remained.
"I can handle myself. You need not worry, I will not die so easily." Nor would he let others stand in his way. He’d promised her he’d get it back from the man. He could see the pain that it was causing her. She was aware of every life that was taken by use of the jewel. The youkai carrying it had no problems slaying those that crossed his path. They were sure it was the one forming a small army in the North. Just another reason to bring the man down before he could start a war.
"I know, I’m just worried. I don’t want anything to happen to you." She tried to hide her fear from him. Had been trying to keep it contained since he’d walked up to her. Tomorrow was the Tournament, this was the last time in which they’d be able to speak until it was all over. What would happen to her if she lost him? If he were to die then his soul would be judged. The link would be severed and she’d never see him again. This wasn’t much but it was all she had. Since he’d started visiting her, she’d learned a lot about him. He really was a pain in the ass but she’d come to find that quality endearing. It was his way to put up a front. He was like Inuyasha in some ways, he was scared to let anyone close. What she knew of his birth and life it was easy to understand. It made knowing he was willing to share a part of himself with her that much more special.
"Someone will be waking me soon. I just came to see you before hand. I don’t have much time. I will return with news of the jewel." He didn’t want to leave, he never did. He felt at peace while with her. It was strange that it would happen with her. The one person he had easily discarded was the one he wanted back. The feelings were foreign and strange, he didn’t understand them. All he knew was that with her near all the pain from his life was gone. She’d listened to him talk and hadn’t judged him for anything. He also knew that she didn’t blame him for her death. It angered him more than ever that he’d let her die. He wasn’t sure how the physical part of their relationship would have turned out but she was someone he would have come to trust and care about if she’d have lived. He didn’t care about many but she was now among that list. If he was honest with himself she ranked up there with Yukina, perhaps more so. He’d never allowed himself the comfort of getting close to his sibling. Kagome on the other hand had made her way into his life. Even if it was on a subconscious level, he wanted to be with her.
She couldn’t shake the feeling that something bad was going to happen. This might be the last time she had the chance to speak to him. "Before you go, promise me that you’ll be careful. I’ll be lost if you don’t come back. I wish things would have turned out differently. I wish I were alive so I could be with you, just one more time."
The comment shocked him to his core. When they’d been together that day he’d been cruel and thoughtless. Why would she want to repeat it? The blue eyes shimmered as she looked up at him. The emotions rolled over him, the deep care she felt. Scarlet eyes widened as she threw her arms around his neck. The firm feeling of her lips brushed across his. Even if he couldn’t get no physical pleasure from the touch, he returned the pressure. His arms wrapped around her waist pulling her close. The stirring began as he felt himself about to wake. "I promise I’ll be careful. No matter what happens to me, I’ll find you no matter where I am."
"I hope someone has a plan." Yusuke didn’t want to sound like a chicken but he wasn’t an idiot either. Not a complete one. Why had he offered to help them? He’d promised Keiko he’d be back, he hadn’t meant as a corpse or worse. As he stared down at the large man, he wasn’t sure which it’d be as. Everyone else seemed just as tense. The preliminary rounds were about to begin. Over one hundred and fifty blocks divided into forty people. Enki had rigged the drawings when he’d been informed of the situation. Yusuke, Koenma, Hiei, Mukuro, Yomi, Shura, Kurama, and Enki were all in the same starting block with HIM. The rest of the youkai were low level, all trembling at the sight of the man.
Whispers of the jewel were heard on the wind as Koto’s voice was explaining the rules to the spectators. No one moved as the large man stood off to the side. If one had to guess he was over seven feet, weighing in at three hundred pounds, all muscle. The power radiating off him left stammering through out the whole area. The top of his head was completely bald, the yellow eyes of a feline scanning over his opponents with distaste.
Hiei felt a shiver of apprehension as he scanned the man’s power. Koenma had said he was originally a Class S. Was it possible all that extra power was coming from the jewel? From Kagome? How were they going to be able to retrieve it when they had no idea where it was? The man could have it up his ass for all they knew. If so he’d gladly make the man bend over so he could carve it out. Somewhere on his person was the gem that contained Kagome’s soul. She was there, she was close.
Koenma wasn’t sure how to proceed. He’d likely die before he could do what was needed. Without being able to locate the exact location of the jewel there wasn’t much they could do. He just hoped that he’d be able to find the girl’s soul in time. As things were now he couldn’t sense it. There was also a good chance this might not work. If it did he had no idea what condition she’d come back in. His father said that didn’t matter, as long as her soul was out of it. With the loss of her soul the jewel would lose most of it’s power. Making it possible to defeat the man. "We must proceed with caution. We need to discover where it is."
The buzzer went off announcing the start of the round. The small group stood in front of their opponent. The remaining youkai were off to the side of the small floating island. Obviously deciding not to participate in this fight. The large man let out a loose laugh before extending his hand. Shrieks filled the air, the right side of the fighting area exploding. Only nine of the combatants remained as the referee decided to put some distance between her and the group. .
"We might be in trouble." Koenma muttered past his pacifier. His plan wouldn’t work if he was in a thousand pieces. Hiei was the first to move, the koorime disappearing in a haze. Mukuro was the next to spring into action, both going for the man. Gasps filled the air as Hiei’s katana sunk into the man’s skull. With blade still sheathed the large man turned and backhanded the apparition aside like a fly. Koenma gulped as he barely missed being knocked down by the air-born man.
He watched as Yusuke fired the same time as Mukuro. Both blasts took the man across the chest. He didn’t move but smirked as he began to absorb the energy. Hiei was trying to get up beside him as Mukuro and Yusuke shouted. The man turned the energy back out, sending it back to the original parties. They barely moved in time, jumping out of range. Vines came up from the ground rapping around the thick ankles. The man didn’t move as they burst into flames. Reaching up he grabbed the hilt of the blade. With a sickening sound it slid from the back of his cranium. As soon as the metal cleared the bone and skin reshaped. "He’s regenerating, he’s using the jewel. You are going to have to try another tactic."
Yomi bent down to check on the koorime that was trying to stand. He’d heard the sound of cracking bones as the hand struck. The small man had to have several broken ribs already. "If our energy cannot harm him and neither can regular weapons what do you suggest? We could fight him till he is drained but somehow I don’t think we will last that long." Yomi could feel it as the man tapped into the power. He’d always wondered what was so great about the Shikon, now he knew. Still he would not run, if he was to die then it would be in battle.
"Hell, I can’t do anything yet. I had a plan but I’m afraid it’s not going to happen." Koenma groaned as the man looked towards them. A shimmer echoed around him, a barrier. So he was tired of the games. He should have known they couldn’t do anything. The youkai had managed to explore the many options the jewel gave him. With that barrier up there was nothing they could do to kill him. Without locating the jewel it was hopeless. He still saw no proof of Kagome’s soul stirring underneath all that power. Without being able to pinpoint which soul was hers, he couldn’t help. "He’s put up a barrier, I can’t do anything."
"Right, you cannot do anything. I have the jewel, none of you can stop me." He growled at the prince that had the nerve to show his face. The fool would be the first to die. Soon they would all bow down to him then he’d make sure to kill Enma. "There is no use running. I know about all of you. I have done my homework. Only one of you is fast enough to escape my blast zone and I’m afraid with that punctured lung he won’t make it either. My barrier will protect me while you all rot in hell. Say hello to you father for me Koenma."
"Dammit," Koenma had no doubt he was capable of making that large of a blast. He’d take them out and anyone within a five mile radius. His heart stopped when the man began powering up, the energy flaring around him. Hiei was trying to get to his feet, Yomi grabbed the injured man about to make a run for it. A loud scream pierced the air, the large man falling to his knees. Time stilled as a pulse of energy shimmered around him.
"What?! What’s happening?" He groaned as his body refused to move. Had he tapped into it too fast? This had never happened before. No, it was something else. Swearing he tried to gain control, his arms trying to move. He’d kill them if it was the last thing he did.
"What’s happening?" Yomi yelled as the wind picked up around them. The surge of energy surrounding the man. It was coming from inside. Was the man powering up? Or was something else going on internally?
"It’s Kagome, she’s trying to stop him but she won’t last long." Koenma focused on the energy. This was it, he had to try now while he had the chance and the girl’s soul was active within. His father had given him an enormous amount of his own energy in which to work with. It had to be enough to get the job done. Taking the pacifier from his mouth, he sent a quick prayer as he focused on the man. Releasing the energy, it hit the man in the chest. "Lost soul, now retrieve."
Title: Finding Faith
Author: Aoshis_toy
Theme: #5 True Love (Seeking You)
Pairing: Hiei/Kagome
Disclaimer: I do not own or profit from Yuyu Hakusho or Inuyasha or the characters..
Summary: Sequel to Fall of Faith
Yomi shifted his weight as the pair went by him at a high speed. The woman beside him merely grunted at the display of force. The two were almost equally matched, Hiei still having the upper-hand due to experience and age. Three months ago he’d come upon Mukuro’s mobile fortress as it moved through the West. Being polite he’d stopped in for a chat, wanting to hear all the news of the upcoming tournament. He wasn’t disappointed that it was still scheduled to take place in two months time. He however was surprised to see how greatly Hiei had improved. It left him wanting to train his son harder. Shura’s unnatural birth gave him excessive power at his age. Still seeing how fast Hiei had improved in such a short time, he knew his son could do better if only given the encouragement. "What news of Enki?"
"He plans on competing again. Something has changed his mind, we are unsure of what it is as of yet. My spies are due to report next week. From what I gather the turn-out this year will be greater than the last. Many fools willing to have a moment in the spotlight even if it means death. Your son has improved greatly." Mukuro commented, seeing the young boy manage to land a solid hit into the hybrid’s gut. She was thankful for the blind man’s company. The daily excessive training kept Hiei’s mind off other things. The man was plagued with guilt and remorse. She couldn’t understand why, the human had been forced upon him. Not as if he’d chosen the girl because he wanted her. Koenma should have known better than to order a human into the Makai. Yusuke and Kurama were disliked because of their human taint. What could be expected when you throw a pathetic human female into a world full of youkai? Still the koorime felt as if he’d done a great wrong. Then being denied the revenge of killing the one responsible.
She watched over him daily, to make sure he didn’t do anything foolish. She wasn’t worried about suicide or the like. The worry of him losing his temper and killing some of her men, that was an issue. It had happened twice already. The man was her top general, so he was more important. Hiring more underlings was a pain in the ass because he couldn’t control his anger. The next tournament was fast approaching, an excuse to wear the man out when the need called for it. Word had it that many of the sleeping youkai were coming back to the surface. Those stronger than herself and Yomi, were coming out to play. Those that had long lost ambition and the will to fight. The probing question was, why? "There is still no word on the force gathering in the North. They haven’t made any moves or demands."
"My scout says it is only about twenty or so, all following one. I don’t think they will be that much of a threat. I’m sure if a crisis arose Urameshi will no doubt come back along with Kurama. With mine and your former kingdoms alliance, we are a force to reckon with. Raizen’s former followers will assemble if his heir demands it. Shura, improve your form, your defense is slacking son." Yomi growled when the boy was knocked back into the trees. Hiei didn’t give him time to recover, delivering another crushing blow. He’d told his son many times to watch his defense as well as offense. The boy was more concerned about attacking usually leaving himself open for a counterattack. It was something that needed working on badly if he is to survive. "Get up!"
Hiei didn’t give the boy the chance. His hand gripped the slender ankle yanking him into the air. Without pause he tossed him putting force behind it. The boy grunted as he was released and shot through the air. Shura was the perfect patsy in which he could relieve some of the stress. The boy was too cocky to be any real challenge. With lack of sleep he was already growing tired from the hours of training. Soon, he’d have to call it a day and try to rest. The nightmares might come again but he would have no choice but to risk it. They’d been coming every time he managed to fall asleep. Images of her death consumed his soul. He knew it wasn’t really how she died.
Images of her head being torn off, burnt alive or even maimed. It had to be her in his dreams, it was her voice. The faces were always blurred, the bodies often varied. If it wasn’t for the sound he’d chalk it up to plain nightmares brought on by guilt. The small amount of time he’d been in her company, her voice was what lingered in his recollection. No matter how much he wanted to forget her he wouldn’t allow himself to. It would be his punishment for failing. He’d made a promise and quickly broken it. He should have known better than to leave her without making sure of her safety. He’d been cocky believing none would touch her due to his reputation. It was his fault she’d died.
He evaded the blast of energy aimed at his chest. The younger boy was pissed at being used as a punching bag. The fool should learn to defend himself better instead of throwing so many attacks. The boy was going all out on the offensive leaving himself wide open. Getting tired of the game, he waited for his opening. He could sense Yomi’s anger as the boy lost his cool. The man had good reason to get irritated. No matter how much they trained it would do no good if the boy couldn’t fight with a clear head.
He jumped back and stopped when Yomi yelled for a halt in the practice. The man only a few inches taller than himself swore and kicked at the ground. Crossing his arms he waited for the blind man to smack some sense into his clone. Yes, then he’d get a decent challenge. He was surprised Mukuro hadn’t stepped in yet to take over the battle. The wind picked up stirring his hair, the breeze cooling his heated flesh. The open plains were just about turn up from the boy’s wild attacks. The smirk left his face when ringing began in his ears. The annoying sound made him scowl, not this again.
The anguished crying filled his ears making his skin crawl. There was no point in looking around for the source, it was coming from inside his head. Rubbing his temples he will the voice to be silent. Was he cracking up? Or was the jagan picking up on something near? It had been like this since her death. Every once in a while he’d pick up on strange sounds, usually crying. Mukuro said it was his guilt causing him to hear illusions and things that weren’t there. She was a stronger clairvoyant than himself and she heard nothing. "Dammit, Mukuro I am leaving. Think I need to get some rest."
"Very well." She nodded towards the koorime. He looked exhausted, some sleep would do him good. Maybe Yomi would feel up for a round. The man didn’t look too happy as he spoke to his son. Chuckling she walked on over to the quarreling pair. Maybe with any luck she’d get some play time in with the blind man. Her eyes lingered over the round curve of his backside. Shame he was a cold tyrant and believed in ejaculating in jars to reproduce.
Hiei found a branch not far from where the fortress had stopped. The tree provided enough shade to keep him cool. Settling against the rough bark, his eyes closed. The annoying weeping had finally stopped so he could concentrate on getting some sleep. Blasting was heard in the distance as Yomi’s and Mukuro’s auras were raised. With any luck both would keep themselves occupied for a few hours. He found it strange that the two that were once enemies seemed to enjoy spending mass amounts of time together lately. Smirking, he let the darkness claim him, allowing slumber to take control.
His eyes opened hearing the sound of tears. Was it that infernal weeping again? The tree was no longer under him and the flat plain was replaced by a forest. Where the hell was he? The fortress was nowhere in sight, nor could he sense Mukuro or the others. Swearing he took in his surroundings, the trees went on for miles. The sky was an odd pink color, unlike anything he’d seen before. He picked up on several other unknown auras, many of them youkai. Two of them sacred, one very weak, the other exceptionally strong. The closest was the large pure energy, coming towards him slowly.
Curiosity got the better of him and he took off towards the aura. He wanted answers and he wanted them now. Like how the hell did he get here and where here was. The trees seemed endless as he sprinted towards the being. If he was correct it was human. The other human was a great distance away, not worth pursuing at the moment. The tree line broke into a grassy field. Tall grass that reached his knees swayed in wind that he couldn’t feel. The plant life was moving but he couldn’t feel the caress of the wind upon his face. His eyes searched the area, looking for his prey. In the middle of the grove the woman stood. All he could make out was long dark hair, her back facing him. Raising his voice he demanded an answer, "Where the hell am I?"
Kagome stilled at the voice, not wanting to believe her ears. It couldn’t be him, not here. It was most likely her mind playing tricks on her yet again. Many days passed and she’d be thinking, his voice would enter her mind. Most of the time it happened when she was crying. Then he’d rudely be telling her to shut up. Maybe she should go have a talk with Midoriko about it. Maybe her heart was longing to see a face that she’d known in her life. How much time had passed since she’d died? That’s what she called it even if the other miko called it a simple transgression. She’d been robbed of her human form and brought her against her will. One reason she’d kick Inuyasha’s ass if she ever saw him again. After waking up and finding the ancient miko staring down at her with a sorrowful look the truth had been revealed to her.
That day she’d been dying, the man was killing her. The jewel feeling threatened had acted upon itself. Being bonded with her soul, if she died and her soul gone; it would cease to exist. As she took her last breath, it had pulled her in. Same as it had with Midoriko’s and the many youkai that had been combined in that battle. Miroku had once said the souls still waged a war inside. Damn the man didn’t know how right he’d been. The war had all but stopped, the souls within being drained of their power. Once her soul and body had been absorbed it had reclaimed it’s former strength and power. Their power used up but the tortured souls still remained. Now she was just one of them, doomed to dwell in this plane of existence.
"Answer me dammit, where am I?" Hiei scowled as the female kept staring off into the distance. Was she deaf or being annoying on purpose? No matter how powerful she thought she was, he didn’t like being ignored. He didn’t like this place, wherever it was. There was sound but it seemed hollow, no depth to it. Taking a step forward the woman finally turned around slowly. The long white gown she wore moved in the strange wind. As it rushed between them, the hair was blown from her face. "You?!"
"Figures, you didn’t bother to ask my name when I was alive. I guess You is fitting for now." Kagome sighed at the small man. So he was here but that didn’t explain how. Even if he did happen to get his happy ass killed, his soul wouldn’t come here. Was he a figment of her imagination? That was the only answer she could come up with for now. In this place where time seemed to stand still and there was no night. All she did was exist and watch the world go on without her. She’d once thought it strange when Kikyou had spoken to them of Midoriko’s will. While the fight with Naraku had been going on the shards had started acting on their own accord. The two embedded in Kouga’s legs had almost killed him when he was being attacked by the dark hanyou. Kikyou had said it was Midoriko’s will that the jewel be completed and purified. Also, when they’d been looking for the very last shard that had yet to be located things had come to light. The youkai known as Housenki had taken it with him upon his death, the jewel fragment having spoke to him. Saying it wanted to remain out of reach of an evil presence. The will at work had been that of Midoriko’s. The miko trapped inside being fully aware of the transpiring events around her.
Kagome was already tired of being aware of the killing and fighting going on around her. While she was powerless to do anything about it but watch. What hurt the most was knowing that the man holding the jewel now was using the power to kill. It was horrifying, she didn’t know how Midoriko had been able to withstand it for so long. Feeling the hate and malice coming from those that touched it made her heart ache. The one holding it felt nothing but those two emotions and the need to kill. If not for the power her own soul provided, the man wouldn’t have any use for the bauble.
"Hn, I must be dreaming. You are dead, there is no other explanation for this. I’ll just stand here until I wake up." The guilt washed over him at the words. She had a point, he still didn’t know her name. He’d never bothered to ask it of her or Koenma. There was no doubt that it was her standing in front of him. She looked exactly the same as the day she’d died. Why was he dreaming of her? Was his guilt causing him to have nightmares? "Are you going to plague me with more nightmares of watching you die?"
"Why would I do that?" She was stunned at the question. If she’d conjured him up with her imagination she didn’t want him to say that. No, she wanted him to be nice and pleasant to keep her company. Midoriko was pleasant enough company on occasion but the other miko preferred her solitude. Besides why would she want him to watch her die, it had been a horrid way to go. She wouldn’t wish that upon anyone. Least of all want someone to see it. "I’m not sure what you are doing here. But it’s nice to have company."
"Spare me the lies. Why else would I be here. This is just the beginning of another nightmare. So go ahead and do it so I can wake up." He hated those dreams, he didn’t want to see another. Yet if that was why he was here it was best to get it over with. Seeing death in itself didn’t bother him, just knowing that he was being shown that he’d failed her. She was dead because he hadn’t been there. He’d brought her to her death and walked away without a care.
"And you told me I talk too much. I’d rather just sit here if that’s okay with you. Even if you can’t wait to see me die, I’d rather not accommodate you right now, maybe some other time." She smiled at his shocked expression. Hell she wasn’t dismembering herself just to please her imagination. At least her Hiei was staying true to form and being an asshat. How was the real one doing? She’d never knew much about him. Either way it beat being alone for some time. It was company for the time being. "What kind of nightmares was it?"
"Hn, watching you die over and over again in many ways. Guess it’s your way of making sure I was feeling guilty over you being killed." He grunted as she appeared shocked at the statement. This form of her was playing games with him. Would she soon start yelling at him before dying before his very eyes? Hurling accusations of his failures before tormenting him? The large blue eyes looked him over making him feel lacking.
"Why would I want that? I don’t blame you. You didn’t cause my death. I know why I was killed and it had nothing to do with you. I am thankful that you weren’t there to share my fate. I hold no anger towards you Hiei." She smiled, it warmed her that he might regret her dying if only if it was in her imagination. Guilt wasn’t something she ever wished for him to feel. She didn’t think he would have willingly left her there to die. No if he’d wanted her death he could have done so himself the moment they’d stepped into the Makai. Circumstances beyond both of their control had brought her this fate. If he was alive and well then she held no ill-will towards him.
"Impossible, even if it was against my wishes I took you as my mate. It was my duty to protect you. I left without making sure you would be safe. It is my fault for leaving you there, I have every reason to feel guilty. You may have been a lousy lay but you didn’t deserve to die in such a manner." He grunted when she began laughing at the insult. He was officially losing what common sense he had. The dream was so unlike the others it was mind boggling. He could contend with the decapitated form of her but this one was unlike anything he’d encountered before.
"Yes, I guess I was. I was kind of in a bad mood that day. I guess just like you I was forced to do something I didn’t wish for. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you. I should have been mature and dealt with it the best way I could. Besides it was my first time, I didn’t know what to do." She remembered that day very well. Up until he’d entered her his touch had been enjoyable. It was supposed to be painful the first time, not his fault entirely. They both could have done things differently but the past was the past. No need to dwell upon it. "Also I know you wouldn’t have left me there if you’d have known I’d die. You shouldn’t be so hard on yourself. Tell you what I’ll forgive you if you do two things for me."
"What?" Even if it was only a dream it eased some of his anguish hearing those words. Was it possible to make up for what he’d done? Could he hope that she’d be able to forgive him in some form. Or was this where the dream would begin to go terribly wrong? Would she ask for his death in return for her own? Or be forced to watch her kill herself in this world?
"First off call me Kagome, that’s my name. I know I’m a female but girl or You doesn’t go over too well." she walked over to him. Taking the steps slowly in hopes he wouldn’t run or disappear. As she got within distance of the man, she reached out. The hands held no warmth in this plane but felt heavy in her palms. Would he do as she asked or was she losing it? "Also, will you visit me again?"
The blast shattered the ground next to the tree snapping him awake. His groggy mind forced him to leap out of the way. Instantly alert he scanned the area, looking for the threat. He picked up the aura before he saw the woman in question. Cursing, he relaxed, his blood rushing too quick for his liking. Part of him still felt like he was dreaming. Blinking a few times, he took in his surroundings. He was back in the same spot in which he’d chosen for his bed. There was a large hole next to his appointed mattress but nothing else was out of place. The pair continued to spar in the distance unaware they’d just disturbed his slumber.
It was just a dream after all. Figures, the girl wouldn’t forgive him. No one was that forgiving. Yet his hands still tingled from the slight touch in which they’d received. He could still feel the hands holding his. How could a dream be that vivid? It wasn’t like the nightmares or the others. She was dead there was nothing he could do about it. He’d failed her, Kagome was dead because of him. "Kagome?"
How did he know her name? Had she really spoken to him and divulged the information? He hadn’t bothered to ask or probe her mind for the information. The only way for it to be possible for him to gain it now was if she’d freely spoken it. Was she still alive somewhere? They’d never found a body but hadn’t she admitted to dying? No answers came to him as he dwelled upon the dream. The tournament was only a few weeks away, he couldn’t let this distract him. But could he just ignore it? No, he had to know the truth. One way was to find out her real name. There was only person that could tell him for sure.
Koenma scowled at the hybrid as he stormed into the room. The last person he wanted to see now. This was all his fault, he was sorely responsible for it. His backside was sore and he had a migraine that would last for centuries to come. He could only assume that Hiei was coming to tell him that the girl was dead. Been dead if his informants were correct. The man had let her die the same day. He was disappointed in his former team member. "Get out Hiei, I do not wish to see you right now. Haven’t you caused enough trouble?"
"Hn, so I guess you know that she is dead." The scowl the toddler sent his way made it concrete. So it had to be a dream the girl was dead. Body or no, she wasn’t alive any longer. He still needed to know about the dream and her name. The man might have some answers, explaining the nightmares and how he could have spoken to the girl. "Did her soul arrive?"
"Of course not you fool. Don’t you pay attention to anything. If you’d done your part we wouldn’t be in this mess now." Koenma stammered as he tossed the stamp towards the man. He wasn’t sure how much to tell him but wasn’t willing to let him know everything his father was planning. "Look I guess some of it is our fault for not telling you everything. If you will grant me a few minutes I’ll tell you what I can. Kagome had was the reincarnation of a powerful miko. When she was fifteen she traveled back in time, where she learned of her true nature. That miko was Kikyou, the original protector of the Shikon no Tama. It was a powerful jewel born from another known as Midoriko. Midoriko was a powerful miko but met a tragic fate. About to lose in a fight against many youkai that had combined in order to defeat her, she pulled it’s soul and her own out. From that the jewel was born. Within it’s depth a war of souls waged on, the power so great it allowed it’s holder use of that power. It was fought over for centuries until it went to Kikyou. She too met a tragic end and had the jewel burnt with her body. It came back in Kagome centuries later. To make this short Kagome broke the damn thing in the past but managed to save the day and collect all the pieces. In the end she made a wish for someone that didn’t deserve it simply because she loved him. I say she had bad taste in men. "
"Because the wish was made it drained the jewel of it’s power. Because the wish was selfish and done for the wrong reasons the souls inside remained. Unable to exist after being drained it bounded with Kagome’s soul keeping it in this world. When she returned here all her power was gone absorbed by the jewel so it could remain. Who’s to say if she would have gotten it back, she didn’t live long enough to see that far ahead. That is why we placed her with you. While the jewel had lost most of it’s power we feared youkai crossing over into the Ningenkai in order to obtain it. We hoped she’d be safe with you, at least from the low level fools hoping to obtain it." He took a deep breath before continuing, deciding to leave out some information. "Well as you already know the girl was killed in a manner of speaking. The jewel has a will of it’s own, the will of the souls that dwell within. Now when it bonded with the girl’s soul it also linked itself to it. No Kagome, no jewel to be blunt and vice versa. It cannot survive without her or her without it. When she was near death the jewel saw the danger of becoming forfeit. The reason you found no body and there was no soul for us to retrieve is because both are inside the jewel. Our main concern now is that thanks to Kagome’s soul being contained within it has regained it’s former glory and now unleashed upon the Makai."
"Huh, sounds like you have a problem then. Tell me, is it possible for her to speak to me. I recently been having nightmares and dreams. She is in them." Hiei digested the information and waited for the question to be answered. So she hadn’t just been a normal female. He had taken her to her death that day. He’d deposited her in the middle of mid-class youkai that would kill for that kind of power even if it was meager. Anything to increase their own.
"Indeed. With the bond formed between you two, it is still linked spiritually. Her soul still exists just in another realm. I’m guessing with that fake eye you have it is more than possible for you to pick up on her. But the fact still remains, the jewel is a threat. Since you came you can inform Mukuro and Yomi of what you’ve learned from me. We believe the one that has the jewel in his possession will be competing at the tournament. I’m not sure if you are willing to help but we want to get the jewel back and stored in a safe place. I’m not sure if this means anything to you but whomever is using it is drawing off the power from Kagome’s soul. There was nothing left of Midoriko’s power or the youkai within. The power it emits now is almost all hers. Kagome was powerful before the unthinkable happened, shame she lost it all for an unrequited love."
"Fine, I’ll do what I can. I’ll help you get your jewel back but I don’t do it for you. I’ll do it because I owe her. If she is what you say then I doubt she likes knowing her power is being used for evil." Hiei wasn’t sure what he could but try to kill the man that had it in his possession. If he was at the tournament then it would be taken care of then. What else could he do to make up for the mistake? ‘Will you visit me again?’ The question lingered in his mind. Had it really been her he’d been speaking to? Was it possible for him to meet up with her again while dreaming? It was worth a try, if it meant earning her forgiveness.
Koenma watched the man leave with a forlorn expression. Should he have told him the rest? Would Hiei have scoffed if he’d told them that neither him or Mukuro were strong enough to take the man on with the jewel in his possession. No one could defeat him, not anyone alive. Their one hope lie in his father’s plan. It had been Kagome to defeat Naraku, not a youkai. Should he explain the statistics behind it all? Naraku would have been placed as a Class C youkai without the use of the jewel. The man that had now was an upper S without it. The aspects of it was mind blowing, there was no way for them to kill the man. The only way would be to take away the source of the power. Yet they’d be risking the girl if this failed. He had no idea what state she’d be in. Even if it succeeded they’d need her alive to retrieve it from the man. Things didn’t look good for them. He’d let Hiei and the others believe what they wanted.
Kagome whirled at the sound of his voice, he’d came. Smiling she ran across the field, more than happy to see the sour man. With all the negative energy coming from the outside it lightened her heart to have company. She wasn’t sure if she’d be able to conjure him up again. He was wearing something different this time. The black pants were the same but he had on a blue shirt and the cloak was missing. Which was fine with her, she didn’t care for that thing. "You came!"
"Sit down, we need to talk." He looked the miko over. Now he understood why he’d sensed a great aura coming from her the last time. She must have gained her former power when she was absorbed. The flimsy white gown wrapped around her legs as she came to a halting stop. It was sleeveless, only small straps holding it up over her chest. He noticed the small amount of cleavage it showed. It was tempting at the same time making her look sweet. Was it something she’d worn in her former life or what she pictured herself wearing. It stopped short of her knees, leaving some of the long graceful legs to his view. Would she accept the explanation he had to offer.
Kagome sat down upon the hard surface as he began to speak. His words only echoed some of the things she already knew. How she’d gotten here and that someone evil now had the jewel. What stunned her was knowing he was real not something she was conjuring. It was really him sitting there speaking to her. But he’d come back to talk to her. Was it just to let her know what was going on? "So why did you come back?"
"You asked me to." He decided to leave it at that for now. If spending time with her while he slept would make her happy then he would gladly do so to make up for his mistake. It wouldn’t ease all his guilt because no matter how things ended she was still dead and stuck in the jewel. She seemed pleased with the answer and didn’t ask him to go into details. What they would do during those visits were beyond him but as long as she didn’t ask him to play chess he’d comply.
It was more than she could have hoped for. Hiei was a youkai and would live a long time. As long as the jewel remained she’d be stuck here. Having company would help ease some of her pain. She’d probably have to get him to loosen up some but they had plenty of time. Time in which to get to know each other. "Great now that we got that established why don’t you tell me a little about yourself. There really isn’t much to do here so you will have to pass the time by talking to me."
He groaned at that answer. It wasn’t one of his favorite past times. What could it hurt? She was merely asking for some conversation, he could try it. There wasn’t much to tell about himself but he’d answered whatever questions she had. Whatever he told her would stay between them. She was stuck in the jewel and couldn’t go blabbering his business like a certain blue haired ferry girl he knew. "What do you want to know?"
"Is that everything?" Kurama leaned back in the large chair, keeping his eyes on the woman. Koenma had come for him and Yusuke yesterday. The information they’d been given had come as a shock. Neither had known that Hiei had been forced to take a mate. Not only had he’d taken one but she’d died the same day. The girl had been carrying the Shikon which was now in the Makai. They’d been asked in case their assistance was needed. The demi-god was up to something but he wasn’t sure what yet. All he’d told them was that he might need their assistance in getting the artifact back. Adding in that it was the girl’s soul in the thing giving it power.
"No, he informed us that he visited the girl in a dream in which he spoke to her. Koenma says it’s because of the bond. He’s able to reach her soul with the use of the jagan. This was almost a month ago, when we were told. What worries me is his behavior since then. I understand feeling guilty over her death. He blames himself for letting her die." Mukuro scowled as the fox nodded obviously agreeing that Hiei was partly guilty. "Since that happened he has stopped training. He is awake long enough to eat and see to his personal needs. He spends most of his time in a meditated state or asleep. I’m sure he is with her while doing so."
"So Hiei’s spending all his time sleeping talking to a dead chick? I don’t get it, they can’t do anything right." Yusuke asked without pause. He didn’t get it. Okay if Hiei was feeling guilty then he should get the jewel back. What was the point in communicating for so long? It didn’t take that long to get information or come up with a plan.
"Yusuke sometimes I wonder." Kurama chuckled at his dumbfounded look. "I think Mukuro has come to the same conclusion that I just did. She just said all I need to know. Hiei isn’t the type to just spend time with anyone even out of guilt. If she asked it of him then he might do so upon the occasions when sleep claimed him naturally. If what Mukuro says is true then he is going to her of his own accord. By putting himself in a state in which he can, then he’s doing so for another reason. Or am I putting too much into it?"
"No, you are correct. I suggested that he stop doing so. I have never experienced Hiei’s displeasure before but I did when I suggested he do so. He has become obsessed with her for some reason. It isn’t good for him to put his life on hold for something he can never have. He discarded the girl when they first arrived and is now acting like a lovesick puppy. The first few days back he just went when he was sleeping but something has changed within him. As the days went by the more time he spent in his self induced state." Mukuro didn’t want to deny the man a relationship but he was setting himself up for heartache in the end. The girl was dead, they couldn’t change that now. Him getting attached was going to cause trouble.
"In other words Yusuke, Hiei is falling for the girl." Kurama saw Mukuro nod at the assessment. There was no other way to interpret his actions. The man cared for the girl and was spending time with her the only way he could. It wasn’t in Hiei to go out of his way for many. If he was doing so then the girl meant a great deal to him even if the man wouldn’t admit it to himself. "If he refuses to halt the visits I’d say it’s already too late and he’s in love with her. He will not appreciate our interference."
"What?! You’re saying he’s in love with a dead chick. That’s got to suck. I mean how is it possible? It’s not like they are actually seeing each other or something." How the hell could the man love someone that wasn’t real or alive? Yusuke didn’t understand how someone like Hiei could get attached to a dead person.
"You idiot. Are you sure you love the girl you are with? It’s not all physical, none of it is. Even if you get a boner by looking at some girl’s ass doesn’t mean you love her. When the love is true, it is based on your feelings. You should understand that it makes the situation more real. Don’t you get it? Hiei hasn’t been fucking her, it’s not possible since she has no body. What he cares for is the girl’s soul, her personality. With all the time he spends with her, it means he enjoys her company as well. It would be much simpler if it were merely lust driving him. " Mukuro sneered, the man was a moron. She felt pity for the girl he was soon to marry. He’d end up cheating on her before a year was out.
"Exactly. I don’t envy him his situation. In the end he will still be alive and she will remain dead. Shame things turned out this way. I take it the reason he hasn’t shown himself since our arrival is that he’s with her. I’ve no wish to disturb him. But when he does wake we need to press the issue of the Tournament. He needs to be prepared, as do we all." Kurama wasn’t sure what else to say to the man. Hiei wouldn’t like them questioning his methods. Telling the man to give the girl up would hinder their friendship. He’d do what he could. If Mukuro told them about it then she was concerned for him as well.
"I don’t want you to fight." Kagome knew pleading with him wouldn’t help. If one thing she’d learned about the man he did as he pleased. Her showing her worry would probably annoy him but she had to try. If they were going to try to get the jewel back the fight wouldn’t be easy. She could feel the darkness that cloaked him. She couldn’t help but care about the small man. He’d kept his promise and remained with her. Too much but she was grateful for every minute he lingered. It gave her hope that he cared in return. It would get them nowhere but the feelings still remained.
"I can handle myself. You need not worry, I will not die so easily." Nor would he let others stand in his way. He’d promised her he’d get it back from the man. He could see the pain that it was causing her. She was aware of every life that was taken by use of the jewel. The youkai carrying it had no problems slaying those that crossed his path. They were sure it was the one forming a small army in the North. Just another reason to bring the man down before he could start a war.
"I know, I’m just worried. I don’t want anything to happen to you." She tried to hide her fear from him. Had been trying to keep it contained since he’d walked up to her. Tomorrow was the Tournament, this was the last time in which they’d be able to speak until it was all over. What would happen to her if she lost him? If he were to die then his soul would be judged. The link would be severed and she’d never see him again. This wasn’t much but it was all she had. Since he’d started visiting her, she’d learned a lot about him. He really was a pain in the ass but she’d come to find that quality endearing. It was his way to put up a front. He was like Inuyasha in some ways, he was scared to let anyone close. What she knew of his birth and life it was easy to understand. It made knowing he was willing to share a part of himself with her that much more special.
"Someone will be waking me soon. I just came to see you before hand. I don’t have much time. I will return with news of the jewel." He didn’t want to leave, he never did. He felt at peace while with her. It was strange that it would happen with her. The one person he had easily discarded was the one he wanted back. The feelings were foreign and strange, he didn’t understand them. All he knew was that with her near all the pain from his life was gone. She’d listened to him talk and hadn’t judged him for anything. He also knew that she didn’t blame him for her death. It angered him more than ever that he’d let her die. He wasn’t sure how the physical part of their relationship would have turned out but she was someone he would have come to trust and care about if she’d have lived. He didn’t care about many but she was now among that list. If he was honest with himself she ranked up there with Yukina, perhaps more so. He’d never allowed himself the comfort of getting close to his sibling. Kagome on the other hand had made her way into his life. Even if it was on a subconscious level, he wanted to be with her.
She couldn’t shake the feeling that something bad was going to happen. This might be the last time she had the chance to speak to him. "Before you go, promise me that you’ll be careful. I’ll be lost if you don’t come back. I wish things would have turned out differently. I wish I were alive so I could be with you, just one more time."
The comment shocked him to his core. When they’d been together that day he’d been cruel and thoughtless. Why would she want to repeat it? The blue eyes shimmered as she looked up at him. The emotions rolled over him, the deep care she felt. Scarlet eyes widened as she threw her arms around his neck. The firm feeling of her lips brushed across his. Even if he couldn’t get no physical pleasure from the touch, he returned the pressure. His arms wrapped around her waist pulling her close. The stirring began as he felt himself about to wake. "I promise I’ll be careful. No matter what happens to me, I’ll find you no matter where I am."
"I hope someone has a plan." Yusuke didn’t want to sound like a chicken but he wasn’t an idiot either. Not a complete one. Why had he offered to help them? He’d promised Keiko he’d be back, he hadn’t meant as a corpse or worse. As he stared down at the large man, he wasn’t sure which it’d be as. Everyone else seemed just as tense. The preliminary rounds were about to begin. Over one hundred and fifty blocks divided into forty people. Enki had rigged the drawings when he’d been informed of the situation. Yusuke, Koenma, Hiei, Mukuro, Yomi, Shura, Kurama, and Enki were all in the same starting block with HIM. The rest of the youkai were low level, all trembling at the sight of the man.
Whispers of the jewel were heard on the wind as Koto’s voice was explaining the rules to the spectators. No one moved as the large man stood off to the side. If one had to guess he was over seven feet, weighing in at three hundred pounds, all muscle. The power radiating off him left stammering through out the whole area. The top of his head was completely bald, the yellow eyes of a feline scanning over his opponents with distaste.
Hiei felt a shiver of apprehension as he scanned the man’s power. Koenma had said he was originally a Class S. Was it possible all that extra power was coming from the jewel? From Kagome? How were they going to be able to retrieve it when they had no idea where it was? The man could have it up his ass for all they knew. If so he’d gladly make the man bend over so he could carve it out. Somewhere on his person was the gem that contained Kagome’s soul. She was there, she was close.
Koenma wasn’t sure how to proceed. He’d likely die before he could do what was needed. Without being able to locate the exact location of the jewel there wasn’t much they could do. He just hoped that he’d be able to find the girl’s soul in time. As things were now he couldn’t sense it. There was also a good chance this might not work. If it did he had no idea what condition she’d come back in. His father said that didn’t matter, as long as her soul was out of it. With the loss of her soul the jewel would lose most of it’s power. Making it possible to defeat the man. "We must proceed with caution. We need to discover where it is."
The buzzer went off announcing the start of the round. The small group stood in front of their opponent. The remaining youkai were off to the side of the small floating island. Obviously deciding not to participate in this fight. The large man let out a loose laugh before extending his hand. Shrieks filled the air, the right side of the fighting area exploding. Only nine of the combatants remained as the referee decided to put some distance between her and the group. .
"We might be in trouble." Koenma muttered past his pacifier. His plan wouldn’t work if he was in a thousand pieces. Hiei was the first to move, the koorime disappearing in a haze. Mukuro was the next to spring into action, both going for the man. Gasps filled the air as Hiei’s katana sunk into the man’s skull. With blade still sheathed the large man turned and backhanded the apparition aside like a fly. Koenma gulped as he barely missed being knocked down by the air-born man.
He watched as Yusuke fired the same time as Mukuro. Both blasts took the man across the chest. He didn’t move but smirked as he began to absorb the energy. Hiei was trying to get up beside him as Mukuro and Yusuke shouted. The man turned the energy back out, sending it back to the original parties. They barely moved in time, jumping out of range. Vines came up from the ground rapping around the thick ankles. The man didn’t move as they burst into flames. Reaching up he grabbed the hilt of the blade. With a sickening sound it slid from the back of his cranium. As soon as the metal cleared the bone and skin reshaped. "He’s regenerating, he’s using the jewel. You are going to have to try another tactic."
Yomi bent down to check on the koorime that was trying to stand. He’d heard the sound of cracking bones as the hand struck. The small man had to have several broken ribs already. "If our energy cannot harm him and neither can regular weapons what do you suggest? We could fight him till he is drained but somehow I don’t think we will last that long." Yomi could feel it as the man tapped into the power. He’d always wondered what was so great about the Shikon, now he knew. Still he would not run, if he was to die then it would be in battle.
"Hell, I can’t do anything yet. I had a plan but I’m afraid it’s not going to happen." Koenma groaned as the man looked towards them. A shimmer echoed around him, a barrier. So he was tired of the games. He should have known they couldn’t do anything. The youkai had managed to explore the many options the jewel gave him. With that barrier up there was nothing they could do to kill him. Without locating the jewel it was hopeless. He still saw no proof of Kagome’s soul stirring underneath all that power. Without being able to pinpoint which soul was hers, he couldn’t help. "He’s put up a barrier, I can’t do anything."
"Right, you cannot do anything. I have the jewel, none of you can stop me." He growled at the prince that had the nerve to show his face. The fool would be the first to die. Soon they would all bow down to him then he’d make sure to kill Enma. "There is no use running. I know about all of you. I have done my homework. Only one of you is fast enough to escape my blast zone and I’m afraid with that punctured lung he won’t make it either. My barrier will protect me while you all rot in hell. Say hello to you father for me Koenma."
"Dammit," Koenma had no doubt he was capable of making that large of a blast. He’d take them out and anyone within a five mile radius. His heart stopped when the man began powering up, the energy flaring around him. Hiei was trying to get to his feet, Yomi grabbed the injured man about to make a run for it. A loud scream pierced the air, the large man falling to his knees. Time stilled as a pulse of energy shimmered around him.
"What?! What’s happening?" He groaned as his body refused to move. Had he tapped into it too fast? This had never happened before. No, it was something else. Swearing he tried to gain control, his arms trying to move. He’d kill them if it was the last thing he did.
"What’s happening?" Yomi yelled as the wind picked up around them. The surge of energy surrounding the man. It was coming from inside. Was the man powering up? Or was something else going on internally?
"It’s Kagome, she’s trying to stop him but she won’t last long." Koenma focused on the energy. This was it, he had to try now while he had the chance and the girl’s soul was active within. His father had given him an enormous amount of his own energy in which to work with. It had to be enough to get the job done. Taking the pacifier from his mouth, he sent a quick prayer as he focused on the man. Releasing the energy, it hit the man in the chest. "Lost soul, now retrieve."