Toto-sai stared at the luscious green field and flower beds that was once a dark ruin.  Nature’s changing seasons eliminated all traces of Naraku’s destruction.  It’s been several of years since that final confrontation with the wicked demon.  Toto-sai reminisced of the life-changing event.  No one walked away the same.  He signaled to his trusty flying bull to carrying them to their destination.  After sometime, Toto-sai arrived at Lady Kaede’s village.  There children laughed and played.  Lady Kaede was much older and moved slower now, but she was happy to awake each morning knowing that her village, and the children at play will never have to worry about Naraku again.

              A teenage Kohaku practiced sword play out on the fields with a friend. Both of them were strengthening their skills as demon slayers.  Naraku, the worst demon of all, was gone, but demons remained on the land.  Lady Kaede’s village became a place desperate villagers turned to for help to exorcize demons.  This became good business for the village.  The head slayers were Miroku and Sango.  Miroku though was the main slayer.  Sango had other matters to tend to.

              Two toddler twin girls tugged at Lady Kaede’s skirt begging to come out of the porch to watch them run around outside.  Lady Kaede struggled to move at the little girls’ pace.  Sango came out of the house to help Lady Kaede.  She told the little girls to go play.  She told them that grandma Kaede would be there.  Lady Kaede braced herself on Sango’s arm, and placed another hand on Sango’s stomach unable to resist the urge to feel the child growing inside Sango.  The twin girls called out to Lady Kaede and their mother Sango as both of the girls ran in circles.  The women laughed at the little girls’ sport.

              A shadow appeared behind Sango and Lady Kaede.  The women turned to the approaching Sesshomaru followed by Jaken, Aun, and Kagura.  Sesshomaru came by to check up on Rin.  Lady Kaede pointed to the field where Rin was practicing sword play with Kohaku.  Sesshomaru cracked a smile.  He extended a small sack of silver for Lady Kaede.  Lady Kaede always refused his offer, but Sesshomaru likewise always insisted.  Sesshomaru took his leave with group and left to continue their travels helping others in need along the way.

              Sango and Lady Kaede sat on a wicker bench on the grass taking in the scenes of children playing.  For a moment, Sango thought of her husband Miroku.  She tried not to be so concerned about his safety.  After all, Miroku was exorcizing demons along with the aid of Shippo now a much more mature, and strong fox demon. 

There were times a large flying creature would pass over the village.  Members of the village rushed out each time hoping to catch a glimpse of a dragon and perhaps Raygan.  After the confrontation with Naraku, Raygan and Akemi parted ways hoping to one day return.  Sango only hoped to meet her friends again, but she also understood the responsibilities Raygan and Akemi had back on the mainland.  Right now, Sango truly missed more than anyone Kagome and Inuyasha.  Ever since Inuyasha transformed, the rest of the events that followed happened so quickly she never felt she properly said farewell to them.  She just hoped that they are well wherever it was they were.

*******

              Kagome looked at her watch.  Her class was only minutes from being excused.  She was in her last year of studies at Tokyo University.  Kagome would soon transfer to a medical school more focused on her field.  Becoming a doctor was a long road.  Finally, class was dismissed.  Some of the classmates wished her a good day.  She waved them goodbye and walked to the courtyard of the campus.  She proceeded to the adjacent public park to meet someone.  There on one of the picnic tables having lunch was a man intently pouring over papers trying to make sense of them.  Kagome approached him and asked if she can be of assistance.  He nodded and made space for her next to him.  Kagome looked over the papers.  It was an application to enter into law enforcement.  She looked at the black-haired, sharp-eyed man.  She smiled at him and kissed her fiancé.

              “You want to be a police officer?” she asked him.

              “What else can I do that will give me some action?  Traffic guards are boring.  Firefighters sit and wait.  I want to move!” he replied.

              “Oh, Inuyasha,” she laughed looking over the documents. “Ever the restless one.  I’ll help you fill this out.”

              The two lovers sat the picnic table in the beautiful, peaceful park in the middle of the one of the largest cities in world.  Here, no one worried so much about demons.  It was more civilized.  There was more to do and more to see, in a way.  Inuyasha took a couple of years to adjusting to life here especially as a human.  But he loved Kagome.  He wanted to be with her at all costs even if that meant leaving behind the only life he knew.  She was his world.  He choose to be human for her and returned with her to this industrialized world.  The well that connected both the old and new worlds collapsed shortly after they returned to Tokyo.  Though it was hard for both of them to be free from that past, they settled into their new life.  Kagome showed Inuyasha everything that needed to be known about the culture, engineering, science, and medicinal advances.  Of course she also showed him all sorts of foods.  Inuyasha learned to be at peace, and it was the food that he much preferred compared to the Feudal Era.  But in the midst of all this, it was Kagome.  She made it worth the choice, and he was glad he choose her.  His friends in the other time did not have to worry about the dangers of the jewel.  He wished them all well and a healthy life.  Especially for Koga.  He did end up marrying Ayame after all and became the new wolf clan leader.  Differences aside, they all made a great team when their support mattered most.

              Kagome pulled out an apple and took a bite out of it while looking over the application.  Inuyasha asked her if she was hungry.  Kagome told him she skipped lunch to finish up a paper.  Inuyasha took the application off her hands and put it in her backpack.  He got her backpack and books then said, “Let’s go eat.”  Kagome asked where.  “Let’s go to that ramen place!” Inuyasha responded excitedly.  He did not mind that he just finished a bowl of instant noodles.  He was always up for ramen.  Kagome got up and hugged his arm as they walked to the noodle restaurant.  “I’m craving a Coke too,” Inuyasha added.  Kagome laughed.  The paired walked away from the park enjoying each other’s company.

Each of Naraku’s enemies have followed the scent of that evil demon.  The scent has led them to the last secret location of Naraku’s fortress.  In the last battle with Naraku, Inuyasha broke through barrier and fatally wounded Naraku.  Naraku disappeared and lay dormant in a cave deceiving a powerful priest into creating a barrier around his cave that would purify any demon that would try to come near.  Secretly, he was healing himself and trying to rid of the human heart of Onigumo.  Though he almost got rid of the heart, he was forced out of hiding and to relocate his fortress as soon as his powers permitted.  Naraku is still not fully restored.  In order to become more powerful he requires the entire Jewel of Four Souls.  With his human and half-demon enemies containing much of the rest of the shards, Naraku devised a trap to lure them in so that he can collect the remaining shards. 

              The barrier around his fortress was weakened.  His enemies took the bait.  Though his wind sorceress betrayed him, he still has the great ability to create more incarnations of himself to destroy his enemies.  His trap, however, would have to be more elaborate. 

              Destiny has been delayed for over fifty years.  The completion of the Shikon no Tama is at hand.  Naraku trusted in his own strength believing that at the end of the day he would possess the whole Sacred Jewel.

              Kohaku, Naraku’s possessed boy, has a shard buried in his flesh keeping him alive and enslaved to Naraku’s will. Koga the Wolf Demon has two shards in his legs. Kagome carries the rest of the shard pieces Naraku needs.

*******

              Inuyasha led the party consisting of Kagome, Sango, Miroku, Shippo, Kirara, and Koga.  Following behind at a distance were the exhausted Ginta and Hakkaku from Koga’s wolf clan. Further behind them were Toto-sai, Myoga, and Hachie.

              “Keep up, lazies!” ordered Koga to his wolf clan.

              Inuyasha cringed just at any time Koga opened his boisterous mouth.  He shrugged off his annoyance of Koga and focused on following the scent of Naraku.

              The ghastly weather made it difficult to see the distance.  Clusters of trees appeared in the purple fog as they continued on their way.  The clusters became more frequent and denser.  Eventually, they found themselves in a labyrinth of trees thick and thin.  The scent kept getting stronger as they got nearer, but the route became more difficult.

              “Which way do we go?” asked Kagome.  “We could be lost in this forest for days.”

              “No problem,” Inuyasha withdrew his Tessaiga.  “We’ll make a way!”  He lifted the mighty sword.  “Wind scar!”  The trees parted like the Red Sea.  “See? Naraku is going to have to do better than that to slow us down!”

              The party followed Inuyasha.  Every several yards he used the Tessaiga to cut a new path through the increasingly dense forest.

*******

              “I don’t know what to make of this,” exclaimed Ayame.

              A pack of wolves accompanied Ayame as she approached the dense forest following the scent of Naraku. The closely packed trees formed a sort of maze she had to navigate through.  The wolves stayed close to her keeping alert while she looked for passages to squeeze through. She gasped at the sound of a trees cracking and breaking.  For a moment she was alarmed, but then she picked up the scent of Inuyasha and Koga.  The wolves panted with excitement to see Koga again.

              Ayame and the wolves pressed through the thick forest following the familiar scents and the loud explosion sounds.

*******

              Inuyasha was determined to get to Naraku, but all the slashing was making him tired and fast.

              “Perhaps we might to able to glide over the tree, Inuyasha,” Miroku suggested the obvious.

              “That fog is too thick and the trees are tall,” Sango warned.  “It looks too risky and we can’t all be carried. Besides, the miasma still looks very thick up there.”

              “Damn, Naraku’s teases!” declared Koga.  “Can’t face us directly. Got to make things complicated.  No matter.  I’ll lead us now,” he turned to Inuyasha.  “You can rest, pup.  I got this!”

              Inuyasha frowned.  The rest of the group followed Koga’s lead.  Toto-sai, Myoga, and Hachie lingered.  The deeper they entered the forest the more afraid they grew.  A new scent and a few twig snaps startled Hachie.  Myoga quickly proceeded to hide in Toto-sai’s cloak.

              Koga and the others stopped too at the sound of the rustling nearby.

              Everyone released a sigh of relief at the sight of Ayame and her wolves.  Everyone except Koga.

              “Ayame! What are you doing here?” Koga asked looking shocked.

              “I’m here to help battle Naraku!” stated Ayame. 

              After a few formalities the group continued their journey through the tree maze.  Ayame and the other girls caught up with their exploits since their last meeting.  Koga walked at lead cringing his teeth.  All he thought about was how Kagome might get the wrong impression about him and Ayame.  In this case, Kagome would be right.  Koga is very insecure about marrying a female as strong-willed as Ayame.  She is his equal in nearly every way from bravery to good looks.

              Why did she have to appear now? Koga wondered. She has always followed me never giving me room to myself, always pretending to be in love. Okay, so we are betrothed to marry. That was not my doing! It was all arranged. Father said she is the best for me. Ha! What does he know? He wasn’t with her as long as I have been. I need a woman that’s relaxed like Kagome. Ayame is too, too strong willed. She’s brave enough to fight her own battles. Not that I’m complaining but it’s nice to be the stronger one! Well, I am the stronger one no matter what! And I got the shards of Shikon Jewel in me to make me that much stronger! Sigh, why do I feel as if I’m just rambling –

              Koga walked right into a tree. The rest of the group gave him puzzled stares. Koga growled, made up a fib as to why slamming into the tree was necessary for him to navigate through the forest, and then continued to cut left leading them through the forest

*******

              The somewhat watery reflection of the traveling party rippled from center to edge on Kanna’s mirror.  Naraku studied the party.  Quite of few of them have gathered thus far.  He knew more where on the way.  The demonic forest maze would keep Inuyasha and the others occupied until Naraku lured the rest of his prey.

              The demon kept looking at the mirror.  Though he was expressionless on the surface, inside his human shell there was a swelling of something he had not felt before: nervousness.  The ever powerful, the ever elusive Naraku deceived, killed, betrayed, possessed, and destroyed anything and everything to get ahead, to be one step closer to his goal of eternal immortality without any of his “human” weakness. This time, Onigumo’s beating heart got the better of him.  What he was feeling were the early steps of anxiety.  All of his enemies would soon be at his temporary hideout.  Naraku had already vowed to fight them all.  His slowly deteriorating powers need the whole Shikon Jewel in order to be not only powerful yet again, but the most powerful demon.

              The distorted figures on the mirror shifted to show a priestess walking alone.  As the priestess neared the dense forest she paused knowing she was being watched.  Slithery dark creatures carrying bright orbs drew near to her.  As they got near the orbs disappeared into the priestess’ body then ventured away in a hurry.  The priestess remained motionless then looked in the direction of the viewer of the mirror.  Naraku was startled for a moment. The priestess glared as if trying to burn a hole through the unseen stalker.  She then walked into the forest and faded from the mirror.

              “Kanna,” the evil demon stared out of the window of his dark quarters.  “Have you done as I instructed?”  Kanna nodded.  “Good.  Let me be.” 

Kanna left the room.  Faint rays of moonlight pierced through the fading miasma touching Naraku’s face.  The darkness in the room was not enough to hide the drop of sweat from Naraku’s brow.

*******

              The soft breeze brushed Kagura’s hair to the side.  The wind sorceress has been staring at the pond for what seems like an eternity.  In her heart she knows that Naraku has sinister motives for why he would he would lift the barrier of protection off of his hiding place.  Her heart was warning her to go and help those that helped her.  For a moment she regretted having a heart or else this would not be a conflict.  The irony.  There she stood staring at the body of water trying to create an image, an image of her life without troubles, stress, and responsibility.  She was free to choose how to live her life.  So why now does her heart weigh the choice of returning to Naraku, the sinister devil she has been trying to escape from all her life?

              Damn you, Naraku!  Will I ever be rid of you?

*******

              Sesshomaru proceeded through the twists and turns the strange forest made.

              “Lord Sesshomaru, there is something definitely strange about this forest,” analyzed Jaken as they navigated the forest.  “These trees seem to be watching us.”

              Nothing deterred Sesshomaru. He was focused on facing Naraku, though, he could not help but also think of Rin’s safety.  He did not want to second guess his decision to leave her with Aun.  Sesshomaru is no fool.  He is well aware that Naraku is devising an elaborate trap for all who come.  Still, Sesshomaru could not, or would not, miss this opportunity to face Naraku again.  He pressed on with Jaken in tow.

*******

Kikyo examined the paths between the trees.  There were many different foot prints going in all different directions.  She figured the trees moved forcing certain travelers to take different directions.

Naraku, you are playing with your enemies again, she thought.  Or perhaps you are delaying.  But why?

A few more soul eaters brought her souls of the freshly departed to Kikyo.  An unease came over her.  She was not certain if her soul carriers will be able to come through the deeper she ventured into the forest.  Her outer shell depends on the souls of the recently deceased to stay “alive”.  Without more souls to sustain her, she could very well die before seeing this through.  Understanding the risk, Kikyo proceeded anyway. Her desire for revenge far outweighed her livelihood.

*******

              Kagura stared at the open barrier.  All along the way there she kept rhetorically asking herself why she was there.

              This is ridiculous!  I should leave before it’s too late.  Her eyes stared intensely in direction of Naraku’s castle.  She clenched her fist over her hand.  Her heart raced.  I suppose this is what it means to have a heart. . . She crossed the barrier into the demonic forest.  I better live to regret this!

              Kagura looked down and follow what appeared to be freshly made footprints.

*******

              Kanna stood on the balcony of Naraku’s fortress.  She looked out in direction of the forest maze Naraku made for his enemies.  The view from the fortress was obscured by the evening mist and the miasma fog.  Kanna felt nothing.  She did not feel hate or sadness.  She did not feel happiness or joy.  She was not sure how she should react over the imminent encounter.  No matter.  She was prepared to perform her duty per Naraku’s instructions.

              The miasma started to lift.  The demon forest was visible now.  Kanna could see the trees rustling without wind.  Suddenly, many of the trees starting shifting moving into another formation like soldiers called into attention.  Naraku approached Kanna on the balcony.

              “It is time, Kanna.  Go to the field and meet them,” he instructed.

              Kanna slightly bowed and left.  Kohaku was already in position.  Naraku preceded to meditate.  Something – or things – began to move and shift under his flesh.  Naraku opened his mouth to let out a yell.  The sound was that of dozens of distorted banshee cries.  A dozen large spider legs branched out from underneath him.  His arms ripped into large crab-like pinchers.  His body turned into that of a large lion.  His eyes burned red.  His teeth sharpened and nostrils smoked.  He licked his lips with a reptile tongue.  Naraku was now battle ready.

*******

              Inuyasha and the group drew weapons and took a defensive formation as the trees continued to clear a path.  The trees thumped and creaked and rustled their branches and leaves.  As the trees retreated from the valley, the other travelers were revealed to the group. 

              “Sesshomaru, what the hell are you doing here?” Inuyasha cringed at the sight of his brother.

              Sesshomaru and Jaken calmly approached Inuyasha, Kagome, and the others.

              “Seriously, what are you doing here?” pressed Inuyasha.

              “I could ask the same of you, Inuyasha, but we both know the answer,” Sesshomaru answered.

              “You came here for Naraku too?” asked Kagome.  “Then this is great news!  We can all work together!”  Kagome was giddy over the fact that Inuyasha and Sesshomaru will work together for once instead of against one another.

              “Whatever!” snapped Inuyasha.  “We don’t need your help!  Get lost, Sesshomaru!”

              Koga tried to intervene, but Sesshomaru was obviously the more intimidating of the dog demons.  He figured it best not to get between the sibling rivalry.

              “Inuyasha,” Sesshomaru stared coldly at his brother.  “I’m here for Naraku, not you.  Let’s settle our differences some other time.  Now, Jaken and I will be on our way to his castle.”

              Inuyasha boiled, but before he reacted boldly, he froze at the sight of another forest wonderer: Kikyo.

              Kagome gasped.  Sango, Miroku, and Shippo were equally shocked to see Kikyo again.

              Oh, no!  Kagome thought jealously.  Inuyasha, please don’t lose your focus!  I know you still have feelings for her, but now is not to time to deal with it!

              But it was too late.  Inuyasha wasted no time speeding past his brother to rush over to Kikyo.

              The rest of the crowd just stood there not sure of what to do next.

              “This is awkward,” Koga finally broke the silence.  He approached Sesshomaru to introduce himself.  “Sesshomaru, I’m Koga.  I must admit, you look nothing like your brother.”

              “You will address him as Lord Sesshomaru, wolf demon!” interjected Jaken.

              “Hey, relax.  I’m just trying to make friends here,” Koga replied.

              “Lord Sesshomaru does not have friends.  He does not need any.  And he does not need any of you to help him against Naraku!” Jaken spoke loudly.

              Sesshomaru motioned to Jaken to be silent.  Kagome looked away from Inuyasha for a moment to speak for the group to Sesshomaru.

              “Master Sesshomaru, believe me, it is good to see you in a time like this,” Kagome said humbly.  “I don’t think it’s a coincidence we meet here like this.  We don’t have a choice in all this.  We must all face Naraku together.”

              “Yeah,” Sango stepped forward.  “It’s obvious he brought us all here.  He’s not careless.”

              “Naraku is sly and calculative,” contributed Miroku.  “He wants us all to be here.”

              “It’s his end game,” concluded Koga.  “Let’s make him sorry for messing with us!”

              Sesshomaru did not react, but Jaken knew the adventurers got their point through to Sesshomaru.

*******

              Inuyasha stopped short of Kikyo.  Kikyo stared straight at him without a reaction.

              “Kikyo,” Inuyasha was not sure if he should take another step forward.

              Inuyasha could not say more.  There was so much he wanted to say, so many thoughts on his mind.  He tried to find the words to tell her that he thought of her every day.  He wanted her to know how much he still cared about Kikyo, and how she’s the only one standing in between him and Kagome.  Inuyasha wanted to tell her how bad he wants to kill Naraku for ruining their relationship.  But he could not say anything.  Years of conflict, memories, emotions in between their last meeting.  There was just no way to say it all in a few sentences.

              “Inuyasha,” whispered Kikyo finally.

              Inuyasha could not hide his emotions.  Kikyo stared straight into his eyes.  All the emotions he had bottled up were forming as tears in his eyes.

              “Inuyasha, I am not here for you,” she said.  “I’m here for Naraku.”

              “Kikyo, I – that’s what I am here for too…”

              “We have both come a long way to get here.  Let’s not interfere with our revenge now.”

              “Kikyo, right now, I want nothing more than to be with you as we teach Naraku a lesson he will never forget!”

              A soul carrier arrived with another soul for Kikyo.  Inuyasha noticed there was only one soul carrier.

              “Kikyo, have you noticed your other soul carriers aren’t around?  They probably can’t get through here!”  Kikyo just stood there.  Inuyasha realized Kikyo was well aware of this risk.  “Kikyo!” Inuyasha grabbed her arms.  “Please don’t do this!”

              “I’m not leaving Inuyasha.”

              “But I don’t want to lose you again!” Inuyasha stared at her intently.  “This time you’ll be gone forever.”

              “Inuyasha,” Kikyo looked away from him.  “I been dead for a long time now.  I know this body is nothing more than a shell.  I still feel – something.  Of the very few emotions I can experience, I still feel for you,” she closed her eyes.  “I knew the risks coming here.  I did not know you would be here.  Still, I cannot stop now.  Naraku must be destroyed.  I want to kill him for taking away my happiness.”  Kikyo opened her eyes to meet Inuyasha’s.  “You were my happiness, Inuyasha.  I wanted to live the rest of my life with you peacefully.  Before I died and since I was resurrected, you and I have not been able to be at peace.  I’ve come to realize the fact that maybe we were just never meant to be.”

              “Don’t say that!” a tear streaked down Inuyasha’s cheek.

              “Inuyasha, this is the first time I’ve seen you cry,” Kikyo searched his face.  “Please listen to me.  We used to be close, but we also hardly knew each other.  We have to put that aside for now so we can be undeterred when facing our enemy.”

              Inuyasha did not understand that Kikyo was literally breaking apart inside.  She wanted to have him now that they met, but once again, it’s Naraku that stands in between them.  Inuyasha let her arms go and motioned her to join the rest of the group.

*******

              Kagome fought back tears.  She knew that Inuyasha harbored feelings for Kikyo after all this time.  She finally understood that Kikyo was the one standing between her and Inuyasha.  As angry as that made her feel, she could not blame Kikyo.  Or Inuyasha.  Right now, she tried to put that behind her to focus on the task before them all.

              Inuyasha guided Kikyo before the group.  Koga, Ayame, and the rest of the wolf pack introduced themselves.  Toto-sai, Myoga, and Hachie greeted her.  Kagome, Sango, Miroku, and Shippo welcomed her.  Sesshomaru and Jaken just spectated.

              Before they all got comfortable, a voice called out to them all to get their attention.  The entire crowd turned to face the source of the voice.  Kagura stood before them.

              “Before any of you try anything brash, let me inform you that I am here for the same reason you all are: Naraku,” she announced to the unconvinced crowd.  “Let me be honest with you.  I don’t care if any of you live or die.  I only care about killing Naraku.”

              “I think she’s telling the truth,” Koga admitted.

              “She is telling the truth,” Sesshomaru shocked everyone with the fact that he said something.  “Kagura, you are finally prepared to face Naraku, I see.”

              “Yes, Lord Sesshomaru.  I got tired of running and flying,” Kagura approached.

              “Just because you’re now an enemy of our enemy doesn’t make us friends,” Inuyasha shouted.

              Kagura made clear that she had no intention of being anyone’s friend.  What she did not say was that she was there for Raygan.  She actually felt a bit relieved that Raygan was not there.  But she still wanted to see him again.  One last time.

              “Enough with the small talk,” Kagura said firmly.  “We all took Naraku’s bait.  He’s going to make his move any moment now.  The trees have all cleared the field, or should I say killing field.  Lucky for us, we don’t need to reach his castle to face him.  That’s where our luck ends.

              “Well, alright then! Let’s do this!” Inuyasha commanded.

              Koga was about to argue his authority to Inuyasha, but Ayame horse-collared him.  “Just let it go,” she said.

              Inuyasha looked like a battalion leader.  He lead the entire group consisting of Kagome, Sango, Miroku, Shippo, Kirara, Toto-sai, Myoga, Hachie, Koga, Ayame, Ginta, Hakkaku, the wolf pack, Sesshomaru, Jaken, Kikyo, and Kagura.

              Naraku, you think you’re smart, but the dumbest thing you ever could have done was to get us all together at the same time! Inuyasha thought confidently they will be victorious.

*******

              The miasma was lifted.  The moon shone on the dark green valley below.  The trees stood at a distance like spectators in an arena.  Atop a plateau on the mountains ahead was a gothic structure.  No light came from it. Little would it matter.  Naraku was not intending to let the approaching travelers near the fortress.  He would meet them in the valley below.

Naraku was all Inuyasha could smell.  The scent only got stronger as they continued their cautious route to the fortress.  It came from all around them.  With the exception of the apparent rocky terrain up ahead, the walk seemed relatively smooth.  That’s what worried Inuyasha.  Just then a small refracted light up ahead caught the group’s attention stopping them on their tracks.

“What is it?” asked Miroku.

“It’s Kanna,” responded Kagura from the rear of the group with some concern. 

“She’s hiding behind one of those rocks,” pointed Ayame.

Kagura frowned.  Damn it! “Those aren’t rocks!”  Everyone turned to her.  Kagura kept staring in Kanna’s direction.  “Those are bodies.”

              “What do you mean, Kagura?” asked Kagome.

              “You know how you’ve come across a lot of villages destroyed by Naraku’s incarnations?  Did you ever wonder why you never found any survivors?” she pointed her fan in direction of the “rocks”.  “There they are.  The survivors.”

              “They all look dead to me,” analyzed Koga.

              The light refracted again.  This time the “rocks” started moving.  The bodies of the recently asleep got up slowly with weapons in hand.  Men, women, children stood up all under Naraku’s spell.  They stood hunched over like puppets.  Kanna was in the midst of them holding her mirror.  She motioned for them to attack the intruding party.  The zombie army shuffled and shift towards Inuyasha and the others.

              The group armed themselves.  Inuyasha raised his Tessaiga prepared to unleash the Wind Scar on the approaching army.  Kagome quickly rushed over to stop him.

              “No, Inuyasha!” Kagome ordered.  “Those people are still alive.”

              “Kagome, they’re going to kill us!” Inuyasha replied.

              “We can’t just kill them, Inuyasha,” she pleaded then turned to Kagura.  “Kagura, is there any way we can free these people?”

              “Well, you’ll have to kill Naraku, of course,” she replied coldly.  “But really, all of these souls are trapped in Kanna’s mirror.  You’ll have to destroy her mirror to free them.”

              “It’s worth a try,” said Miroku.

              “Are you guys nuts?” exclaimed Inuyasha.

              “I’m with Mutt Face on this one,” concurred Koga.  “There’s too many of them to get to Kanna unscathed.”

              “I didn’t come here to save anyone. I’m here for Naraku,” stated Kagura.

              Kagome continued to plead for the lives of the nearing attackers.  During all the arguing, Kagome did not realize that Sesshomaru had already gone ahead against the zombie army.  After Shippo pointed out to the crowd that Sesshomaru had already engaged the army, Kagome turned and watched in horror as Sesshomaru hacked his way through.  Kagura quickly followed releasing her wind blades on the attackers slicing and dicing them.

              Kagome cried.

              Sesshomaru – along with Jaken – and Kagura were being quickly surrounded.  Meanwhile, the large hoard was almost upon the rest of the group.  Inuyasha cringed.  They had to attack now.

              “We’re out of time!” Inuyasha prepared to engage.

              Miroku drew his staff.  “Spare their lives if you can!” Miroku announced.

              The rest of them nodded in agreement and attacked.  Koga quickly smashed through the attackers knocking them to the ground.  Ginta, Hakkaku, and the rest of the wolf pack struggled but neutralized a few.  Ayame leaped over attackers and moved to trip them from behind.  Sango and Miroku clashed weapons but never struck to seriously wound.  Kirara tipped enemies over.  Inuyasha knocked out members with the butt and sides of his sword.

              Shippo, Hachie, Toto-sai, and Myoga tried to comfort the weeping Kagome but were not sure how.  Kagome then thought of an idea.  It was so brilliant in her mind that she quickly composed and geared herself up. 

              “I need all your help,” she told her comforters.  They awaited her instructions.  “Hachie, I need you to carry me over the army to Kanna.  Toto-sai, you and Myoga can help me look for her.  Once we find her, we can destroy her mirror and end this!”

              “What can I do, Kagome?” asked Shippo eager to help.

              “If I can’t hit Kanna’s mirror from above, I’ll have to try from the ground.  That’s where I need you all to help me clear the area – without seriously hurting anyone.”

              Shippo was a bit concerned of actually engaging the army, but he agreed with the idea.  Immediately, Hachie transformed into a decent sized blimp for Kagome and Shippo.  Myoga rode along with Toto-sai on his flying bull.  They all floated over the battle scene searching for the wicked child with the mirror.

              In all the action and excitement, no one noticed Kikyo had gone missing.  No one except Inuyasha.

              Kikyo? He searched around the chaos.  “Kagome!” Inuyasha spotted Hachie and Toto-sai floating off in the distance.

*******

              “Do you see anything over there?” shouted Kagome to Toto-sai and Myoga.

              Both shook their heads.

              “Kagome,” Shippo quivered as he looked down at the hundreds and hundreds of zombies below.  “Do you think there are any people down there with arrows?”  Just then an arrow flew past his head.  Shippo yelped.

              “I saw a light down there!” Toto-sai pointed with his staff.

              Kagome peered over from Hachie in search of something.  All she could see were endless swarms of zombie villagers attacking.  Finally, she spotted someone standing still with a mirror in her hand.  It was Kanna.  Kagome drew an arrow against her bow and aimed it at Kanna hoping to hit the mirror.  She did not have enough arrows to take many chances so she had to make them count.  She readied, aimed, and released the arrow upon seeing a small glimmer in Kanna’s hand.  The arrow flew past Kanna and hit the ground.  Kagome did not want to chance wasting another arrow.  She needed most of them for Naraku.  Kagome ordered Hachie to land them near Kanna.

              “Uh, Kagome, how can I?” Hachie was scared but right.  There were too many villagers around Kanna.

              Shippo was sweating bullets but finally built the courage to take action.  He jumped off Hachie.  Kagome called out to him.  Toto-sai and Myoga watched with disbelief as Shippo fell onto the hoard of villagers.  Before reaching the ground, Shippo transformed into a giant ball roughly the size of young adult, and started bouncing villagers away to clear room for Kagome.  Inspired by Shippo heroics, Toto-sai floated down to head level, took a deep breath, and scared villagers away with his fire breath.  Myoga leaped off Toto-sai onto a zombie villager.  Myoga the flea stung the villager on the neck and briefly paralyzed him.  Myoga proceeded to the next villager.

              Hachie too was inspired by Shippo’s bravery.  He landed in the clearing Shippo made and dropped off Kagome to go join the fight.  Kagome, bow in hand and arrows on her back pouch, darted towards Kanna as Shippo and crew cleared the path for her.  When Kanna was in view, Kagome immediately drew another arrow, aimed it carefully, and released it shattering Kanna’s mirror.

              The normally quiet and expressionless Kanna gasped at the loss of her mirror.  Hundreds of orbs with comet tails burst out of the shattered glass into the air.  Those villagers that were still alive either wounded or unharmed, received their souls.  Their demeanor quickly changed.  They stood erect and shook their heads waking up from a terrible nightmare.  Inuyasha, Sesshomaru, Kagura and the others stopped their attack as the zombie assault drew to a halt.  Some villagers that came through sooner quickly gasped in fear at the sight of the demons Sesshomaru, Kagura, Koga, and Inuyasha.  Those villagers immediately scattered.  Those that were slow to go or wake were informed by Miroku and Sango of what just happened, and advised the villagers to clear the area quickly.  Ayame ordered the wolf pack to help usher away the villagers.  Those villagers that were strong and able, carried away the wounded.  Some of the deceased loved ones were carried too while most remained on the field.

              As the hundreds of villagers raced away from the area, Inuyasha and the attacking party caught the sight of Kagome and her group of adventurers that just saved the villagers and their companions.  For a moment Inuyasha stared at Kagome in a way he had never seen her before.  Normally, Inuyasha would be the one doing the saving or taking the initiative.  Here, everyone witnessed a different Kagome.  A stronger and braver girl than that which always sought the aid and protection from others, namely Inuyasha.  Kagome? He was awestruck.

              “Kagome!” shouted Inuyasha.  “Are you okay?”

              “I’m fine, but Kanna is getting away!” she replied.

              Inuyasha and the rest of the party hustled to join her and the others.  Sesshomaru continued at his calm pace unwavering.  Jaken followed his master closely.

              “I wonder what Naraku has in store for us next,” wondered Miroku out loud.

              “I really wish you wouldn’t have said that!” said Sango.

              Kanna did not get far.  She knew she could not reach the castle in time to save herself.  A voice inside her told her to stop and face them.  She did as the voice instructed.  Before her, the traveling party finally approached her ready to strike. 

              Then the ground rumbled.

              Inuyasha and the rest of the party stopped on their tracks just feet from Kanna.  Mounds were forming on the ground.  Something, or some things, were forming and coming from underground.  More and more mounds appeared all over the place.  The strong stench of Naraku filled the air.  This time more dense.

              Naraku’s demons! Figured Inuyasha.

              The mounds finally reached their peak.  Bursting from atop of the mounds were demons of all sorts, colors, and sizes.  Each emerged with either multiple heads, multiple appendages, wings, an odd number of eyes, or a combination of each.  All targeted the intruding party.

              “Now this is more like it!” Koga said excitedly.  “No holding back now!  Let’s get these suckers!”

              No one argued otherwise.  The group readied their weapons and attacked the charging demons hoard ferociously.

*******

              Demons were hacked, sliced, stabbed, jabbed, crushed, or maimed among other things.  The battle seemed to be going well so far for the adventurers Sango thought as she tore into a demon with her sword.  When she dispatched the demon, a cleaver tied to a chain wrapped itself around her sword.  As she turned to draw her sword from her attacker, she stared eye to eye with Kohaku, her zombie brother.  Sango froze.  She knew this moment had to come.  She had been preparing for it for a long time, but no preparation could change how she felt.  At this moment, she was torn between continuing the fight to help her friends, or just dropping her weapons and weeping bitterly.  Sango’s eyes filled with tears both of anger and sadness.  Her little brother.  The last surviving member of her family.  Her flesh and blood was standing in front of her with dead eyes.  Kohaku faced her sister but did not recognize or remember her.  Naraku had his memories locked away.  Kohaku retrieved his cleaver on his chain line, then twirled it for his next strike against Sango.

              “Kohaku!  My brother!  It’s your sister Sango! Please don’t do this!” Sango cried.

              Kohaku attacked.  Sango blocked.  He continued his attacked.  Sango would only defend not counter.

That scent is familiar! Koga sniffed the early evening air. It has to be Naraku! I’m not going to waste any time catching up to him.

              “Koga, is something wrong?” asked Ginta.

              “Naraku’s barrier has opened! I can smell his stench from here.”

              “Um, are you sure it isn’t just this strange weather?” asked Hakkaku a bit afraid the scent is that of Naraku.

              “What are you two just standing there for?  Come on!  We have a meeting with Naraku and we can’t be late!”

              Ginta and Hakkaku exchanged concerned looks.  A whirlwind formed around Koga as he started running up and over a ridge.  Ginta and Hakkaku ran after him followed by a pack of wolfs.

              Trees appeared as speed lines to Koga as he sped past them.

              Naraku, you won’t get away from me this time. That stupid mutt failed to destroy you but rest assured that I won’t! My fallen comrades will be avenged and Kagome can live in peace with you out of the way. Ah, I can already smell your blood running from your decapitated body. How my heart yearns to kill you! Just you wait!

*******

              “Come on!  We haven’t got all day!” shouted Inuyasha impatiently with his arms crossed.

              Sango came running out of the house with her boomerang.  Miroku and Shippo carried some food provisions they might need on their journey.  Kagome got on Inuyasha’s back carrying her bow and arrows.  Kirara transformed into a large cat to carry Miroku, Sango and Shippo.

              “Alright, we’re set!” said Sango.

              “Inuyasha,” Toto-sai called out to him.  “You’re going to need all the help you can get.” For a moment it seemed that Toto-sai had become courageous. He extended his hand to Inuyasha and said, “Here, take Myoga.”

              Myoga squealed as if he had been given a death sentence.

              “You can bring him along, Toto-sai,” said Inuyasha.

              Toto-sai froze in fear. “Um, I just remembered I have something to get back at my cave,” stalled Toto-sai.

              Inuyasha’s eyes turned red with anger and shouted at Toto-sai to hurry up.  Toto-sai and Myoga quivered as they mounted Toto-sai’s bull and followed after Inuyasha and Kirara.

              “Good luck my friends,” shouted Raygan from afar with Akemi.

              Kagome and Sango waved back at the remaining companions as the adventurers left on their journey.

The old priest approached Raygan and Akemi. “Dragon Master, will you not accompany them?” he asked.

              “Inuyasha’s destiny is not my own,” said Raygan. “My fate lies with a great dragon that is said to reside in these parts.”

              “A great dragon, you say?  You refer to the mystic Dragon King then?” the priest asked rubbing his chin.

              “So you have heard of such a dragon?”

              “I have indeed,” the old priest hung his head recalling the myth. “Dragons from many regions feared the Dragon King for it possessed great power over the hearts and minds of dragons,” he continued. “The Dragon King tired of its responsibility over the leaderless dragons and retreated to the mountains. When the presence of the Dragon King was gone, the dragons with tainted hearts emerged from hiding and continued to wreak havoc on country sides. Priests and governors tried to persuade the Dragon King to return, but none have convinced the Dragon King to do so. Many years have gone by and the Dragon King still resides in the cave inside the mountain.”

              “Old priest, do you know where the cave is?” Raygan asked.

              After a bit of hesitation the old monk raised his staff in the direction of the cave. “Follow the winding river to the mountains,” the priest gave the directions to the dragon’s lair.  “When the river bends north continue heading towards the tallest mountain.  There you should find the cave between the mountain tops.”

              Raygan faced in the direction the old monk pointed.  He thanked him then ordered Dragon to transform.

              “Raygan, are you sure about this?” Akemi asked concerned.

              “When I left the village back home I left determined to fulfill my destiny,” he held her hands.  “Now I will use this gift to help my friends and protect you from all harm.” He embraced her assuring Akemi that all will be well.  “We must go,” Raygan turned to the old priest. “Goodbye, old priest. May our paths cross again.”

              The old priest bowed.  Dragon flapped its great wings. Up and away the dragon carried its passengers to the great dragon’s cave as the priest waved them off.

*******

              The wandering priestess paused and turned to west.  She had noticed the dark clouds covering the land but a familiar feeling came over.

              I feel Naraku’s barrier opening. Can this be so?  Kikyo clenched her bow.  Naraku must not be far. I must find him while his presence can be felt.

              She panned around waiting for a demon to emerge but none came.  Kikyo determined what she felt was indeed Naraku’s barrier opening.  The priestess started her journey to the source of Naraku’s presence.

              Naraku, long ago you took my life. Now I shall take yours.

              Soul collectors floated beside Kikyo like bodyguards.  Kikyo burned with the sensation of releasing an arrow; an arrow aimed at Naraku’s heart.

*******

              What’s this I feel? Has Naraku weakened the barrier to his castle? Kagura walked through a forest. Those clouds surely must have been created by Naraku, but why does he weaken his barrier? Could this be a trap for his enemies? Humph, what do I care what Naraku does? This isn’t my problem.

              She was about to walk away when she thought of Raygan.

              The dragon master might be lured to Naraku’s trap, but I already repaid my debt to him for my freedom... Yet this could be my opportunity to seek revenge on Naraku for all the torture he put me through. Preposterous! I wouldn’t go anywhere near his castle! I’ve gotten my freedom, and I plan to enjoy it.

              Kagura shrugged her thoughts aside, turned east and walked away.

              Why do I feel uneasy about this?

              Still feeling uncomfortable Kagura disappeared into the forest.

*******

              Hmm.

              Sesshomaru stopped walking. Jaken slowed Aun to a halt.  The sleeping Rin on the dragon’s back rattled awake as soon as Aun stopped marching.  She peered over to Jaken and asked what was going on.  Jaken wondered too.

              Why has Master Sesshomaru stopped? Does he sense danger? Is he thinking about something . . .  or someone? “Milord, is everything well?” Jaken approached his master.

              “Jaken, we must change our course,” Sesshomaru turned to Rin.  “Rin, stay in hiding with Aun.  Jaken and I won’t be long.”

              “Where are you going, Master Sesshomaru?” asked Rin.

              “Just remain here, Rin,” Sesshomaru reaffirmed himself.

              Rin sat on Aun watching as Jaken followed after the dog demon. 

              “Milord, where is it that we go to?” he asked a bit nervous.

              “We head to Naraku’s castle.”

              “Naraku’s castle!” Jaken gasped tossing his staff in the air.

              Sesshomaru kept his gaze ahead of him following the scent of Naraku.

              I warned you before, Naraku. You cannot escape my grasp. This time I will make sure you never come back.

              The little frog demon trembled in the fear of meeting his doom as he followed the calm Sesshomaru.

*******

              The old wolf sat on a cliff overlooking the rocky valley of the wolf tribes.  A strong scent of miasma troubled him.  His granddaughter who happened to be standing near him gazed at the darkened sky.

              “Gramps,” Ayame addressed her grandfather.  “There’s some strange yet familiar smell in the air.”

              “That is the scent of the demon your fiancé Koga instructed us to be on the lookout for.”

              If my grandfather has caught the scent of the demon surely Koga has too, thought Ayame. Knowing him, he’s probably tracking down the scent.

              “What is on your mind, daughter?” asked the old wolf.

              “Oh, I was just thinking about Koga and wondering if he caught the scent also.”

              “I believe he is after the source of the scent.”

              “Gramps, I want to help Koga,” she said firmly.  “I cannot let my fiancé fight against a strong demon all on his own! I want to help him.”

              “You must not go about this alone either, Ayame.  Take a pack of wolfs to assist you.”

              “Gramps…”

              “Please, for my sake.  I want to be assured that you will have some protection should anything go wrong.”

              Ayame understood his concern for her.  She hugged the old wolf then summoned a pack of wolfs to join her on her mission.  She twirled a whirlwind around her and sped away after the scent of the demon followed by the pack of wolfs.

*******

              Scenes of Koga, Inuyasha, Kikyo and Sesshomaru changing their course to follow after Naraku’s scent flashed on Kanna’s mirror as Naraku chuckled wickedly to himself watching his enemies follow into his trap.  Motioning his hand, he signaled to Kanna that he had seen enough.  Kanna lowered her mirror and exited his room.  Naraku peered out his window into nothingness daydreaming on how he was going to exterminate his enemies.

              When Kagome and Koga walk into my trap I will take their shards.  With their shards and the ones on Kohaku I will have the completed Jewel of Four Souls. Then I will use the power of the jewel against Inuyasha and the others.  This sounds almost too easy to accomplish. Onigumo’s heart skipped a beat.             Yes, Onigumo you will see Kikyo again . . . before she is completely destroyed! And that Inuyasha, I’ve never met a half breed so arrogant! I will take great pleasure in killing him!

              Zombie-like Kohaku stood by the doorway into Naraku’s room.

              “Kohaku, time is critical.  I need you to go to a position outside the castle and wait for further instructions.”

              Kohaku bowed and left the room.

              Kohaku, you will keep Sango busy enough for me to collect Kagome’s jewel shards. Once I have all the other jewel shards in my possession I will remove the ones from your body!

              The already cold room grew colder.

*******

              “Inuyasha, why did you stop?” asked Miroku shouting from atop Kirara.

              Pouring sweat Inuyasha frowned and made a glare at Miroku.  “Isn’t it obvious? I’m tired!” he shouted.

              “Thanks, Inuyasha,” Kagome got off his back. “I’ll walk from here.”

              Toto-sai offered to give Kagome a lift but Inuyasha needed a ride as well.

              Of all the times Kagome brought her contraption of hers to ride on, when she really needs it she doesn’t bring it!  Inuyasha complained about the absence of Kagome’s bicycle.

              “If only Hachie were here,” said Miroku said out loud. “That would solve our transport issue.”

              A weird, demonic voice called out to them from above.  “Master Miroku!” shouted Hachie floating down to meet them.

              “Speak of the devil,” murmured Miroku.

              Hachie popped into his raccoon self and greeted the traveling party.

              “Hello, Hachie,” Miroku stood in front of the group. “What brings you to these parts?”

              “I was passing by when I noticed the weird weather.  My destination isn’t far from here, but while I was flying I spotted you all and thought I’d stop by,” smiled Hachie with a cute, innocent, respectful expression.

              Miroku approached Hachie with a friendly smile and put his arm around him.

              Why does Master Miroku give me that look? I know it from anywhere! He’s up to something.

              “Hachie and I are going to have a little chat,” he said to the traveling party.  “Now if you’ll excuse us,” Miroku turned Hachie’s and his back to the group.  “Hachie, we were wondering if you could lend your assistance to us.  All we need is a ride down the valley and that’s it,” Miroku smiled deceitfully.

              “Master Miroku, I don’t like that look in your eyes. Something tells me that I’m flying into danger if I give you a ride,” Hachie shook.

              “Nonsense, Hachie.  You exaggerate.  Now, please do me this favor,” Miroku leaned close to Hachie’s face.  “Or I’ll suck you into my wind tunnel if you don’t.”

              Hachie squealed.  They both turned around and Miroku announced the news that Hachie volunteered to carry them to their destinations.

              “You convinced Hachie to carry us to Naraku?” asked Shippo with disbelief.

              “Naraku!?” screamed Hachie.

              Inuyasha hit Shippo on the head for making such a stupid remark.  He then approached Hachie and admitted to him of where they were going, and that Hachie had no choice in all this. Hachie sighed and bowed his head.  Inuyasha, Kagome, Sango, Miroku and Shippo got on top of their new transport Hachie.  Toto-sai chuckled to himself about the whole incident.  It was a nice distraction from the doom that lay ahead of them.  Myoga remained with Toto-sai on his bull.  The bull glided in the air besides the transformed Hachie heading in the direction Inuyasha pointed them to.

*******

              Fog disrupted Dragon’s sense of direction.  Soaring above the fog allowed Raygan to spot the highest mountain and pointed Dragon in that direction.  The dark clouds floated over the tallest mountain.  Akemi noticed an opening on the side of the mountain bringing it to Raygan’s attention.  Raygan guided the dragon down onto a natural plateau.  The dragon shook its scaly neck as the passengers got off it.  Steam rose off the rocky terrain giving the place an eerie feel.  Dragon shrunk feeling a bit uneasy about the presence of the great dragon.  The dragon master read his dragon’s mind.  Patting the little dragon to relax, Raygan ordered it to wait outside of the cave.  He then turned to Akemi.

              “From here I go on alone.  Please remain out here no matter what happens.  If I should take too long assume the worst.  Take Dragon and ride out to help Inuyasha and the others.”  The dragon master approached her.  She hid her face behind her hood.  Pushing back her hood he placed his hands on the sides of her face to see her emerald eyes. “Akemi, you must be strong,” he said searching her face.  “You have traveled this far without giving up on me. I know now that I will complete this task.”

              “Raygan, please be careful,” she cried meeting his dark pearl eyes.

              For a moment he thought of not entering the cave, but the memory of his father and the long road to this point urged him to continue.

              “I love you, Akemi,” he whispered.  “I promised Father I will fulfill my destiny.  I also promised to marry you. It will be so!”

              She tightened her grip on his hands and closed her eyes fighting back tears.  Raygan lifted her face and locked lips with Akemi’s.  She placed her hands on the sides of his face holding him to her not wanting to let go.  Raygan could feel Akemi’s heart beating as he kissed her.  His heart about to break through his armor.  Trying not to let his love for Akemi overcome his mission, Raygan pulled himself from Akemi.  The dragon master got on one knee in front of his faithful companion and ordered Dragon to follow Akemi’s instructions should he not come out.

              “Do not let anything happen to her, Dragon,” he commanded.

              Raygan stood back up, removed his cloak exposing his armor and made sure he had everything he needed.  His black attire was decorated with his navy blue, dragon scale armor on his shoulders, knees, elbows, boots, breast and back plates.  He fastened his mask on and looked at his lover one last time then turned to the cave entrance.  Raygan drew an arrow against the string of his bow, aimed it at the cave entrance and released it.  The arrow flew right through suggesting there was no barrier sealing the entrance.  Raygan proceeded into the cave not turning around to see Akemi.  Akemi held her hands tightly hoping for Raygan’s safe return.  She watched as Raygan disappeared into the darkness of the cave and perhaps out of her life forever.

*******

              A rock nearly tripped him in the darkness of the cave.  The dragon master attempted to adjust his eyes, but there was no light to adjust to.  The blackness of the cave and humid condition was making him drowsy.  Raygan placed his hands against the walls of the cave and continued moving forward using the walls as his guide.  He walked for a time until he saw a speck of orange light flickering in the distance.  Raygan regained his composure and pressed ahead towards the light.

              Is this light coming from the lair of the dragon?

              His heart raced with anticipation of what lay ahead. Reaching the light seemed to take an eternity, but when he finally reached the mouth of the tunnel it led to an enormous cavern glowing orange from all corners.  Raygan assumed the shrine look meant that this was the Dragon King’s throne.  He drew an arrow prepared for anything.  The ground underneath him got warmer with every step.  Sweat dripped off Raygan’s forehead. The temperature rose the deeper he went into the cavern.  Once he passed a column of rock formations he heard the sound of air filling a giant vacuum.  Raygan took another step and heard the air pushed out of the vacuum.  The sound was the great dragon’s breathing.  Raygan accidentally kicked a rock while trying to take a step.  The slow, deep breathing rhythm turned into a growl.  The cavern was suddenly filled with the sound and rumble of a great beast moving. 

              Raygan kept his composure.  “This is no time to be afraid,” he told himself.

              A powerful, deep voice echoed in the cavern shaking some rocks loose.

              “Who enters my domain?” a deep roar echoed in the chambers.

              “I am Raygan the Dragon Master,” Raygan spoke into the air unable to see the great beast.  “I am seeking the Dragon King that resides within these caverns.”

The ground trembled as a massive shadow emerged from the ground.  Boulders and dirt rolled off the body of the shadow.  Raygan stood at ready with his bow and arrow.  The great, grey hued dragon extended its head towards the high ceiling of the cavern.  Two large horns stuck out of the dragon’s head.  Its face was fierce and its mouth was lined with large, sharp teeth.  The dragon got on its hind legs and strong arms swinging its mighty tail against the side of the cavern wall causing rocks to fall off the unstable ceiling.  The dragon’s wings extended twice as long as the length of the dragon itself.  The Dragon King’s great roar did not move Raygan from his place.

*******

              Akemi was startled at the roar of the great beast.  She removed her cloak revealing her dark yellow armor preparing for battle but stopped short of entering the cavern.  Much to her dismay she leaned against the mountain wall following Raygan’s instructions.

*******

              “Dragon Master? There is no such thing. Why do you disturb my slumber?” the Dragon King growled.

              “Dragon King, I come from a family of dragon tamers.  For generations, my family has developed the talents to tame and train dragons.  By overcoming you I will become the most powerful dragon master that ever lived,” said Raygan with pride.

              The great dragon’s wicked laughter rocked the cavern.

              “Foolish mortal, you believe you alone can destroy me?  I am vastly superior to all dragons you have come across!” The Dragon King snarled.  “Your arrogance will cost you your life.”

              Raygan placed his arrow on his bow and rose to aim it at the Dragon King.  The dragon became defensive.  It stomped the rocky floor causing a strong shake making Raygan lose his aim and balance.  The arrow flew past the dragon’s head and broke against the rocky wall.  The dragon took in a deep breath preparing to cook his intruder.  Raygan acted quickly.  He got on one knee and withdrew the swords on his back as the Dragon King released the greatest ball of fire ever seen.  The two swords formed a barrier around Raygan shielding him from the impact of the fire ball, but the intense heat began to overwhelm the barrier.  Raygan held on as long as he could but the dragon’s fire blast did not seem to end.  He struggled to hold the barrier as the swords were becoming too hot to hold on to.  Fortunately, the dragon stopped breathing fire and retracted his head to see his crisped victim, but much to its horror Raygan was unharmed.  The dragon master slowly got on his feet.

              This cannot be! How could he have survived my flame?

*******

              Akemi felt the entire mountain quake. Big crumbles and dust escaped the tunnel entrance.

              The entrance is blocked?

              The little dragon rushed to Akemi trembling in fear. She knew the little dragon was frightened of the Dragon King’s presence.

*******

              The Dragon King lunged at Raygan snapping its jaws, but the mortal dodged its attacks. Determined not to let a mortal control him, the Dragon King smashed its tail against the cavern walls trying to unbalance the dragon master.  Raygan tried to keep himself afoot by holding on to firm boulders.  When he got the opportunity Raygan leaped in the air and struck the mighty dragon on the neck with his two swords.  Much to Raygan’s surprise the two swords did not penetrate the dragon’s scales.  The dragon smacked Raygan with its arm sending him crashing onto a boulder and his swords flying off his hands.

              The dragon slowly approached Raygan licking its lips preparing to eat him.  The impact against the boulder disoriented Raygan.  The Dragon King lurked closer to Raygan savoring his victory.  The dragon master shook his head and reached for Flaron.  As the dragon opened its giant jaws preparing to clamp them on Raygan, the dragon master swung his sword upward slashing the dragon’s lip splattering blood on the rocks around them.  The Dragon King drew back roaring in pain.  Raygan clasped Flaron firmly in his hand.  The blade’s orange glow reflected off the dragon’s eyes. Raygan took a few steps to the side locking gazes with the dragon.  He came over to one of his swords and replaced it in its sheath.  A rock rolled away behind Raygan distracting his attention.  The dragon swung its great tail and smacked Raygan on his side sending him flying across the cavern.  Raygan landed on a rock feeling a cracking sensation.  He had broken something.  Raygan moved his arm to lift himself up but a sharp pain struck his elbow.  Too weak to get up and believing he broke his arm, Raygan rolled to the side revealing his bow lying cracked in half.  One end of the cracked bow had been piercing his elbow between his armor causing the pain he felt.  Relief came over Raygan only for a moment as the cavern began to rattle again.  Raygan sat up and reached for Flaron.  The dragon pounced trying to land on Raygan.  The dragon master moved out of the way and grabbed his precious sword as the great dragon stomped on the ground.  The dragon retreated from Raygan’s presence at the sight of his sword.  Raygan swung Flaron unleashing some of its power at the great dragon.  The Dragon King roared in disbelief that his scales were penetrated by a phantom sword.  Raygan spotted his other sword and rushed over to it.  He replaced that sword in its sheath.  Now the dragon master was complete again except for his bow.  There was no way for the dragon master to fire off a shot at the Dragon King’s heart.  The only way to turn the dragon over to Raygan’s command would be to manually stab the arrow at the heart.

              His sword releases some form of energy that can break through my scales! I must be watchful of his moves. He can’t hold on to that sword forever. The Dragon King growled at Raygan.

              “Thinking about taking my sword?” Raygan asked the dragon.

              “You can read my mind?” gasped the great dragon.

              Raygan raised the Flaron before him.  Sensing Raygan could potentially defeat him, the dragon attacked ferociously attempting to prevent any of Raygan’s possible attacks.  The cavern seemed about ready to collapse.  Raygan dodged the falling rocks at the same time trying to counter the dragon’s assault.  The great dragon turned its back to Raygan and flung the falling debris at him with its wings.  Pinned to a corner to avoid being crushed by the flying rocks, Raygan used Flaron to break the incoming rocks into harmless pebbles.  While he was busy breaking the rocks, the great dragon flanked Raygan and got a hold of the dragon master with its powerful talons.  Flaron slipped off his hand as the dragon tightened its grip on the weakened mortal.  Raygan could feel the hot breath of the dragon’s mouth bearing over him.  The dragon opened its great jaws and snapped them over Raygan’s body.  Sharp fangs pressed against Raygan’s breast plate unable to penetrate it.  Suffocating, the dragon master struggled with the very last of his strength to break free, but it was useless.  Everything was beginning to dim.  The dragon’s mighty fangs pressing at Raygan’s chest prevented any hopes of gasping in any air.  Raygan fainted with the crushing pressure.

              A tingling sensation coming from its talons made the Dragon King ease its grip over its prey.  The dragon’s talons began to burn.  Raygan’s motionless body landed on the ground as the dragon flapped its talons to cool them down.

              How can this be?

              The dragon stared at the burned mark the armor left on its palm. The little air entering through Raygan’s nostrils were enough to revive him.  Coughing Raygan crawled on the rocky ground to reach Flaron.

              Why can’t I eat him or touch him? Wondered the great dragon.

*******

              Akemi paced impatiently outside of the cave worrying about Raygan.  It has been quiet far too long.  The silence worried Akemi more than the noise of the battle.  Negative thoughts entered her mind.  She tightened her fists fighting against her own thoughts.  In her heart she knew he was alive, but she could not figure out why it has grown so quiet.  She approached the cave entrance. She stopped at the mouth of the cave when she felt the ground rumble again.

              I hope this will all be over soon.

*******

              The great dragon stared down at the battered warrior slowly rising to his feet.

              “Dragon Tamer, why do you not admit defeat?” the Dragon King wondered.

              “I . . . will . . . fulfill my destiny,” he replied out of breath.

              “I will simply have to bury you under the rubble!” the dragon crashed against the walls and stomped the ground. “It’s a shame I have to do this. I loved my chambers, but your persistence leaves me little choice.

              With the little strength he had left, the dragon master dodged the dragon’s desperate attacks. Raygan slashed at the dragon with Flaron each chance he got.  The dragon swung its mighty tail at Raygan.  Raygan unleashed Flaron’s energy against the dragon’s attack severing the tail from the dragon. Squirming on the floor in pain, the diced dragon kicked its hind legs wildly trying to crumble the carven.  Raygan raced at the dragon and leaped at the dragon’s heart swinging Flaron.  Flaron broke through the Dragon King’s scales around its heart. Raygan quickly drew an arrow as he landed on the dragon.  Gripping it in his right hand, Raygan thrust the arrow through the dragon’s open wound. He kept pushing the arrow until his arms were nearly shoulder deep. Finally, the arrow pierced the great dragon’s heart.

              “Dragon King, be mine!” he shouted piercing the dragon’s heart with the purification arrow.

              The arrow disappeared under the dragon’s pulsing muscles and oozing blood.  The Dragon King squirmed on the ground reacting to the pain of arrow as if alcohol had been applied to its wound.  The dragon stopped struggling taking in slow, deep breaths to ease the pain.  Raygan arms dripped with the dragon’s blood.  Raygan struggled to get on stay feet worn out completely from the great battle. He took a deep breath then fell on one knee before the defeated great dragon.

              “Dragon King . . . you are now . . . under my command,” he panted “I require . . . your assistance . . . and of those under you . . . to fight off a great demon threatening these lands.”

              “Dragon Master, you have proven your worth,” the great dragon said faintly and humbly.  “I wish not to partake of this task you ask of me,” the dragon confessed. “Old age has caught up to me.  I desire to die in peace away from the troubles of this world.  You are now powerful enough.”

              “The truth is, Dragon King, this demon is the ultimate evil. My friends and I need all the help we can get.”

              “Truly you have upheld your family honor, but I cannot accompany you on your mission or follow you wherever you go.  Fret not, Dragon Master, you have not come here in vain.  Because of your steadfast determination to see this through, I offer you authority over the dragons that I have been made ruler of,” said the Dragon King.  “In return all I ask is for peace.”

              The Dragon Master bowed in agreement.  After a bit of struggling, the Dragon King got on all fours and faced Raygan.

              “I give you the hearts of the dragons,” said the dragon.

              The great dragon closed its eyes and released all of the hearts of the dragons from its own heart and gave them to Raygan.  The floating, orange glowing spheres entered Flaron.

              “You have received what you have sought.  Go and be victorious, Milord,” bowed the Dragon King.

              Raygan bowed in respects to the defeated dragon then left the dragon’s presence.  Using Flaron Raygan broke through the boulders making his own way out.  The thunderous explosions echoed out of the mouth of the cave.  The dragon master reappeared bathed in both his and the Dragon King’s blood.  Akemi picked up her cloak and rushed over to Raygan wiping off the blood stains.  As she cleaned his face Akemi noticed his weary eyes were fixed on her.  Raygan did not have to tell her he emerged victorious.  He knew by the look in her eyes that she knew this.  She slowly put her arms around Raygan’s bruised and battered body.  His breath blew on the side of her head against her ear.  Still embracing him, Akemi helped him walk over to more plain area on the ground and lay him down to rest.  She pulled out the healing potion from underneath her garments and applied it to Raygan’s cuts.  Raygan closed his eyes and rested.

              Inuyasha . . .

*******

              Like the half dog he is, Inuyasha sat on all fours sniffing the air while Hachie led the traveling party in the direction the dog demon pointed.

              “That way,” Inuyasha would say every time Hachie had to steer course.

              With a big “I’m proud of you” smile, Kagome patted Inuyasha’s head. Hating to be patted like a real dog Inuyasha jumped up waving his fist at Kagome.

              Inuyasha drew his attention back to Naraku’s scent.  Concluding that Naraku’s castle had to lie just up ahead, Inuyasha ordered Hachie to land on the ground.  As soon as the last passenger got off him, Hachie morphed back into his normal self.  Toto-sai landed his bull next to the rest of them.  Inuyasha stepped ahead of the crowd facing distant mountains and trees.

              “Kagome, do you sense any jewel shards?” he asked.

              “Yes, I do.”

              “How many can you tell?”

              “Several. I’m sure of it.”

              A smirk came over his face.  Drawing out Tessaiga Inuyasha approached the barrier.

              Why is Inuyasha drawing his sword when there’s nothing around? Hachie remained in wonder.  Is there a barrier here or something?

              Inuyasha raised the red Tessaiga over his head and was about to break the barrier when his nose caught a familiar scent.  “Someone’s coming,” said Inuyasha.

              “Who or what is it?” asked Kagome a bit worried.

              “A demon,” said Inuyasha.

              Sango and Miroku prepared to encounter the demon.  Myoga hid under Toto-sai garments.

              “Relax. I’ll handle this demon on my own!” said a prideful Inuyasha.

              “Inuyasha, please be careful!” shouted Kagome.

              Silence fell over the traveling companions as trees brushed against the increasing winds.  His kimono flapped with the wind.  The brave half demon readied his sword as a whirlwind appeared out of the tree line.

              “Hey, isn’t that Koga?” asked Sango easing her hand of her boomerang.

              “It is,” answered Miroku with a sense of relief.

              The whirlwind spun closer to them.  Inuyasha grinned with his back turned to group.  He was about to use the wind scar against the whirlwind, but Inuyasha noticed the prayer beads around his neck light up after Kagome shouted “sit boy”.  Inuyasha’s view of the whirlwind became dark from the concussion he received slamming the dirt with his face. 

The whirlwind disappeared revealing the dashing Koga.  The wolf demon stood tall and proud wearing a serious face.  He paused to announce himself to the group.  Ease and great joy came over him when Koga’s eyes focused on Kagome.  The wolf demon ran over Inuyasha and rushed to hold Kagome’s hand.

              “Kagome, I thought I’d never see you again, but it seems that fate has brought us together!” he said in a flirtatious tone staring deep into Kagome’s eyes.

              Kagome smiled with her eyes closed blushing from embarrassment.  “Hi, Koga, Uh what are you doing here?” asked a nervous Kagome.

              “I’m following the scent of that demon Naraku!”

              “You smelled it too?” asked Miroku.

              “Of course I did!  I have a keener scent of smell than that mutt ever will!”

              Inuyasha burst out of the ground in anger.  “Step aside, Miroku!  I’m going to finish him once and for all!” shouted Inuyasha raising Tessaiga over his head.

              “Inuyasha, sit,” commanded Kagome.

              The ground trembled again when Inuyasha formed another crater on the earth with his chin.

              “Um, Kagome, perhaps you should stop that,” Sango said with concern. “We’re going to need his full strength to face Naraku.”

              “Well, I suppose you’re all here for the same reason as mine,” concluded Koga. The group nodded. “Great!  I’ll have an audience to watch me as I tear Naraku limb from limb!” Koga’s ego took over.

              “Don’t be too hasty, Koga,” warned Miroku.  “Naraku is more powerful than you think. We’re all going to have to work together to defeat him.”

              “Fine, just make sure Mutt Face doesn’t get in my way, or I might end up killing him too,” Koga crossed his arms.

              “Let . . . me . . . at him!” muttered Inuyasha with his mouth full of dirt.

              “What are you all standing around here for?” asked Koga.

              “Naraku’s barrier is just up ahead,” said Shippo.  “Only Inuyasha could break it.”

              The group turned their attention to the faced-down Inuyasha.

              Koga raised an eyebrow.  “Oh, please! I’ll break through it!” Koga said turning to Kagome. “Stand back, Kagome.”

              “Koga, Inuyasha has to break through it with the Tessaiga.  You can’t break the barrier on your own,” Kagome informed him.

              Inuyasha used his sword to help himself on his feet.

              “That’s right, Koga,” said Inuyasha with dirt marks and grass stains on his face. “Stand back and watch me break Naraku’s barrier!”

              Koga crossed his arms and watched as Inuyasha approach Naraku’s barrier.  The Tessaiga glowed red and with one swing broke the barrier.

*******

              Excellent! They’re right on schedule.

              Naraku stood up and walked out of the room into the hall of his castle heading for a balcony.  An evil smirk formed on his face holding the almost complete Shikon Jewel.

              The remaining jewel shards are almost at my door step. It’s only a matter of time for me to collect them from the corpses of those fools! Naraku stepped out and took a whiff of miasma.  Let’s find out how long they are able to hold out against the miasma.

*******

              The barrier opened.  The scenery changed from distant mountains and tree lines to a dark, ghastly castle on a hill in a ripple fashion.  Inuyasha rested the oversized Tessaiga on his shoulder feeling proud of himself.

              Naraku’s castle, Inuyasha thought.  Finally! But why am I afraid going in? Maybe it’s because I don’t want Kagome to join me, but knowing her stubborn self she’ll follow me anyway.

              “That’s Naraku’s castle,” Koga stated the obvious.  “Let’s go in there and crash his party!” he said turning to Kagome.  “Kagome, I want you to stay out here where it’s safe.  Leave this up to us to battle that cowardly demon!” Assuming Kagome was thinking about his wellbeing, Koga held her hand and comforted her.  “Don’t worry about me, Kagome,” he leaned close to her. “I will bring you that monster’s head on a platter then I’ll make you my wife.”

              Kagome caught the sight of Inuyasha falling over himself at Koga’s words.

              “Come on, Mutt Face, you ready to get this guy or what?” Koga teased Inuyasha.

              “I’m waiting for you!” shouted Inuyasha.

              “Fine! Let’s go! Stop fooling around!”

              “We’re coming with you,” said Miroku.

              “Whether you like it or not,” added Sango gripping her boomerang.

              Kagome placed her pouch of arrows on her back and carried her bow.  “Let’s go get him,” she said bravely.

              A look of disapproval came over Inuyasha, but he was not surprised.  He nodded lightly then took a step forward into the area the barrier enclosed. 

Sango’s heart became heavy at the thought of confronting Kohaku again.  Dear brother, we shall free you from Naraku’s bond!

              After a bit of hesitation, Shippo took the brave step forward following closely after his friends into battle.  Toto-sai sat quietly on his bull.  Myoga quivered but a sign of hope came over him at the possibility that Toto-sai may flee.

              “So, Toto-sai, I guess we should be leaving about now, right?” he laughed nervously.

              Toto-sai remained deep in thought.  His heart pounded harder than he ever pounded a sword.  Shaking his head out of daydreaming, Toto-sai frowned and signaled to his bull to float.  Myoga sighed in relief but then he realized that Toto-sai was following the crowd and started trembling in fear.

              “Relax, Myoga.  We’ll make it out of this,” said Toto-sai with confidence and faith in his friends.

*******

              “Master Sesshomaru, Inuyasha and his companions are headed to Naraku’s castle as well,” informed Jaken.

              Sesshomaru eyed his half-brother and the traveling group from afar.  So you think you can face all of us, Naraku? What are you planning? Sesshomaru stepped forward out of the tree line in direction of the castle but at a safe distance from Inuyasha.   Hmm, Inuyasha must have broken the barrier for me to cross this boundary so simply.

              Jaken wept in fear carrying his staff behind Sesshomaru.  The great dog demon displayed no emotions, but he carried a burden in his heart.

              Rin, stay clear of danger.

              Somehow the dog demon knew that this confrontation would be the last with Naraku and being so, Sesshomaru had some concern about the little mortal he rescued long ago.  Naraku put her in danger as a diversion last time Sesshomaru faced Naraku.  That same thought troubled Sesshomaru, but he continued walking as if not caring about her at all.  Jaken tried keeping close to his master as they crossed the opened barrier.