Part 16; Kagome’s turn:

By Fernand J. Sea/HypnoCrown

Inuyasha’s party crossed the plains towards the dark hill where Naraku’s fortress was hidden. The insects were headed that way indeed, but they had no idea of what they would find when they got to the fortress.

Inuyasha: So umm, Kaoru was it? How much of your past do you remember?
Kaoru: I seem to recall an “X” right now and that’s about it. At least that’s an improvement because a while ago I barely remembered my own name. Wait, now that I think about it, my last name is Kamiya. Yeah! That’s right! Oh, you have no idea what a relief this is, I might be getting my memories back at a fixed rate.
Kagome: Really? That’s wonderful! Do you remember anything else?
Shippou: Come on Kaoru, tell us!
Kaoru: Well, umm... nope; can’t remember anything else right now, sorry. Maybe my memories are coming back at a slow pace. Who knows!?
Miroku: Don’t worry Kaoru, we’ll be here to help you find your memories if we can; right fellows?
Sango: Sure thing!
Shippou: Yeah!
Kagome: Count me in!
Inuyasha: But what if we can’t guys? We know nothing about her and her village was completely destroyed. Do you remember if you had any relatives outside of that village Kaoru?
Kaoru: No, sorry.
Kagome: It’s ok, you don’t have to make a huge effort trying to remember. Let’s just deal with what we have to do now.
Inuyasha: Yeah, you’re right Kagome; let’s concentrate on following those insects.
Kagome: Right!

They still had about a mile before reaching the hillside. Let’s check back with Kenshin and Sesshomaru, shall we?

Kenshin: Thank you for the information, we’ll get out of your way now.
Sesshomaru: Beware of Naraku while you search for your missing friend.
Kenshin: We’ll be on our guards, thank you.

Kenshin & his friends left ahead towards the hillside, not knowing the surprise they would find ahead. As that took place, we check how things were going for Inuyasha. They appeared to be closer to the dark hill, and as that took place, a mysterious figure moved quickly in their direction. Inuyasha suddenly picked up on the smell of whoever it was so he stopped cold in his tracks.

Inuyasha: Wait everyone; I smell someone who is headed straight for us.
Kagome: Where Inuyasha?
Inuyasha: It’s right in front of us; he should be coming along any minute.
Shippou: Hey Kaoru! Don’t you think having a beast like Inuyasha is good so we don’t get surprised?
Inuyasha: WHAT! *Inuyasha quickly jumps and lands in front of Shippou with one of the most angry looks anybody’s ever seen* Why the heck are you telling her those things? Take that!
Shippou: Ouch! Kagome! Ouch!
Kagome: Inuyasha! Sit boy!
Inuyasha’s face hit the ground as poor Shippou stood up and rubbed his head, stuck his tongue out at Inuyasha and quickly leapt on top of Kirara. Kirara was a huge cat right now as Sango and Kaoru were riding her.
Inuyasha: Darn it Kagome! He had it coming.

Suddenly, a man with an x scar on his face rushed towards them while they were unaware and grabbed Kagome. Inuyasha saw this but was unable to react because of the pain of hitting the ground earlier. This individual seemed to be as fast as he was, if not faster. As quickly as he appeared, he rushed off in the direction of the dark hill where the fortress was. Everyone watched in awe how fast he took off with Kagome. Inuyasha took off after the man as his friends did the same. Shippou joined Miroku in riding a giant creature known as Hachi; as Sango helped Kaoru join her on top of Kirara. The insects they were following were gone so they decided to simply follow the man with the scar.

Inuyasha: Quick everyone! We can’t let him get away with Kagome!

Little did they know that, they were being led to the very same place where Kenshin and his friends were going to be. Naraku’s fortress awaited, time once again had come for a battle between good and evil but; this time things were going to be different. One can only ponder who would emerge victorious…

End part 16.

Part 17; Kagome meets Kenshin:

By Fernand J. Sea/HypnoCrown

Kenshin and his friends were going up the hill as Sesshomaru walked away. Or was he? He pretended like he didn’t want to go to Naraku’s fortress but he could not resist to watch the newcomers confront Naraku.

Sesshomaru: *Thinking* (This could prove to be very interesting, even if they don’t manage to win, then I at least will get to see how strong Naraku really is.)
Jakken: Master Sesshomaru; may I ask what you are thinking?
Sesshomaru: Let’s move on.
Jakken: Yes pretty master! Hurry up Rin!
Rin: Coming Jakken!

As Kenshin climbed up the hill, he sensed something near and told his friends to prepare for anything.

Kenshin: Sano! Yahiko! Misao! Be alert! There’s someone up ahead.
Sanosuke: How far is it Kenshin?
Kenshin: I’m not sure, but we’re pretty close. This hill has plenty of bushes to hide in; we could be stepping into an ambush.
Sanosuke: Let’s be careful.
Yahiko: Don’t worry about me Kenshin, I can handle anything!
Kenshin: I’m sure you can Yahiko.
Misao: I have a bad feeling rushing down my spine.
Sanosuke: Don’t you worry Misao; we’ll be fine as long as we’re all together.
Misao: I guess you’re right.

A few moments later, Kenshin approached the body of a girl dressed in some very strange clothes.

Kenshin: Hey everyone! Take a look at this; it’s not an ambush as I thought. It’s just a dead girl. Wait a minute, she’s not dead she’s just unconscious.
Sanosuke: Why not try to wake her up?
Yahiko: Yeah, maybe she saw that Inuyasha fellow and she fainted or something. I think any girl would find him scary; don’t you think so Misao?
Misao: *Misao had a nasty look as she looked at Yahiko* What are you implying Yahiko?
Yahiko: He-he, nothing Misao, he-he, nothing.
Kenshin: This girl looks to be about your age Misao, why don’t you try waking her up for us?
Misao: Ok, I’ll give it a try.

Misao headed towards Kagome to see if she could wake her up. As she knelt by her side, they all saw her move and moan in pain.

Unknown Girl: *Moaning sounds*, ouch, I knew I shouldn't have eaten that. *She tried to look up as she cleared her vision with her hands.* Who…Who are you?
Kenshin: Relax, we’re not here to hurt you. We’re here looking for a friend of ours. My name is Kenshin Himura; what’s yours?
UG: I…I don’t know. I also have no idea how I got here.
Sanosuke: No sweat girl! My name is Sanosuke, and we’ll help you out, maybe you should come with us because this place is dangerous if you’re gonna stay all by yourself.
Yahiko: Nice to meet you, I’m Yahiko.
Misao: And my name is Misao.
UG: Nice meeting you all, I wish I could remember anything about myself.
Kenshin: We we’re thinking that maybe you would be able to help us. Do you happen to remember anything that has happened to you?
UG: Now that you mention it, I think I’m starting to remember something. *she said as she closed her eyes.* I see a man with white hair and a big sword. And I seem to recall a monk or someone who dresses like that. Does that help?
Kenshin: Yes! The man with the sword is the man we’ve been after. Did he hurt you too?
UG: I don’t remember, sorry.
Kenshin: It’s ok, take your time. I don’t suppose your memories will come back in a rush; will they?
UG: Actually, I think I remember my name now, it’s Kagome.
Kenshin: Huh? Gee, I guess I was wrong on that one.
Kagome: Well, I’m glad I met such nice folks.
Kenshin: Thank you, you are pretty nice yourself.
Sanosuke: Umm, fellows, I don’t want to rush anyone but; don’t you think we should get going? That guy Sesshomaru said we might be able to find some answers if we go to this Naraku’s fortress.
Kenshin: Yes you’re right Sanosuke! We are getting sloppy. We should get moving if we want to find Kaoru.

And so they moved up the hill, Naraku’s fortress awaited. Inuyasha and his friends were close by and the encounter we have all been waiting for was at hand.

End part 17.

Part 18; Myoga appears:

By Fernand J. Sea/HypnoCrown

Kagura was flying over Kenshin and his friends at a great distance. Even though she was far away she could still see them clearly. Kagura began to wonder about Naraku’s plan while staring at them.

Kagura: *Thinking* (does Naraku really expect Inuyasha to fight this handsome swordsman? Even though I was there when Naraku revealed his plan, I still find it hard to believe. Inuyasha isn’t one of those people who fights just for the heck of it, Naraku had to first lure that swordsman here. After all, Inuyasha can smell a fake right away so he had to make Shodo go to the swordsman’s world to capture someone important to him. I still remember Naraku saying something about Shodo being able to sense and copy not only the target’s appearance, but its smell also. That must have been how he lured Inuyasha a few minutes ago. At first I kept wondering how the captured women would not know that they’re being used as bait. And that’s where Shodo’s additional ability came in; he can absorb the memories from his victim and replace them with new ones. Everything seems to become clear now. Although I want Inuyasha to destroy Naraku I must admit this battle will be very interesting. Heck! If he’s good enough, I might cheer for that handsome swordsman instead. Here comes Inuyasha now, they are all heading for the top of the hill. Naraku’s fortress covers almost the entire hilltop. Will they see each other before or after they go into the fortress? I can see from here they haven’t locked the main gate yet. Does Naraku want them to just waltz in there? What is he thinking? I wonder how Katsume fits in all this. Is Naraku planning to use her as sort of last resort thing or what? More importantly, what if the swordsman loses against Inuyasha and he finds himself facing Katsume? What if Katsume’s powers were increased by Naraku after he captured her? What would Katsume’s sword do to Inuyasha if he’s not entirely human? I mean, I saw that sword slash Kikyo and disintegrate her. So if Inuyasha is half human, will he disappear as well? Or will only the monster part in him disappear? This is getting absurd; I should just follow these events from up here and make sure nobody will become aware of my presence.)

As Kagura kept thinking about the upcoming fight, Kenshin was the first to climb to the top and admire the fortress in front of him.

Kenshin: Hurry up guys! We’re here!
Sanosuke: Wow Kenshin! This is a hell of a place isn’t it?
Kenshin: That it is Sano; but you know what? It also gives me the creeps a little. What do you think Yahiko?
Yahiko: Yeah, it sure is creepy. I bet Misao must be pretty scared, ha-ha.
Misao: Take that back Yahiko! I ought to bash your head in for saying that.
Yahiko: Ugh, lighten up Misao, I was only kidding.
Kagome: You sure get along; don’t you?

Everyone looked at each other and without saying anything just laughed at Kagome’s remarks.

Kenshin: The time for talking is past fellows, we have to get inside that fortress now, or else we might not see Kaoru again.
Sanosuke: I’m tired of just standing here; and besides, the main gate is open. Let’s just go in!

Kenshin was about to stop Sano but seeing that nothing happened after he went through the gate, he simply sighed and followed him. Misao, Yahiko and Kagome did the same and, as they went through, Inuyasha and his buddies emerged from the right side of the fortress. Miroku & Shippou got off from Hachi as Sango & Kaoru descended from Kirara. Hachi & Kirara return to their original forms as Inuyasha was in awe as to how well hidden this fortress was. Since he also sensed Kagome smell, he was sure to find some answers in this place.

Inuyasha: Come on everyone! We have to move on or it might be too late.
Miroku: Yes Inuyasha, let’s get going.
Shippou: I hope Kagome is ok.
Inuyasha: What are you talking about Shippou? Of course she’s fine! (That Naraku better not have harmed her or I swear I’ll… )

As they were about to enter the fortress, a small voice was heard from behind them.

Myoga: Master Inuyasha! Master Inuyasha! Be careful before you enter that place. I have come bearing news!
Inuyasha: Oh! It’s you elder Myoga. Where have you been all this time? Always hiding from danger huh?
Myoga: You misunderstand master; I had to leave you so I could serve you better.
Inuyasha: Whatever you have to say, it will have to wait for later. We’re about to find Kagome and there’s no time to loose.

It was no use, before Myoga-san could say anything else, Inuyasha quickly stormed inside the fortress’ courtyard.

End part 18.

Part 19; An all out battle begins:

By Fernand J. Sea/HypnoCrown

And so we went back to Naraku’s fortress after Kenshin and his friends went through the Main gate. Kenshin no longer sensed anyone within the fortress as Sanosuke was growing impatient.

Kenshin: I don’t understand this…
Sanosuke: So Kenshin, I thought you said somebody would be here. What’s wrong?
Kenshin: I don’t know Sano, It’s like my senses are being thrown off by something. Wait a second; I’m beginning to sense someone coming from behind the fortress’ walls.
Sanosuke: What!?
Yahiko: Who could it be?
Misao: I wouldn’t be surprised if it was the guy who kidnapped Kaoru, that’s for sure.
Kenshin: Uh-huh…

Inuyasha and his friends came storming through the gate with Kaoru by their side.

Inuyasha: Kagome! Hey you! Get away from Kagome if you know what’s good for you.
Kenshin: There’s Kaoru! Kaoru! Are you all right?

Kagura, who was still watching the events unfolding from above; saw how her predictions came true.

Kagura: *Thinking* (So, both Kagome and that other girl had a weird look on their faces. It only lasted a second but I thought that might happen as Shodo activated the implanted memories within them. I wonder what will happen next.)

At that moment, Both Kagome and Kaoru ran to their respective groups and comforted by the side of both Inuyasha and Kenshin respectively.

Kagome: Inuyasha, we have to kill them. They not only captured me, but they were also working with Naraku and they are now part of him. Without them, Naraku will loose a big part of the Shikon jewel and a part of himself. We must stop them!
Inuyasha: Are you sure Kagome? Naraku can be very tricky and if we are all being tricked into this fight then…
Kagome: No! This time it’s different. Don’t you trust me Inuyasha?
Inuyasha: Of course I trust you! What kind of question is that?
Kagome: I’ll take on the woman with the bamboo sword. You take care of the rest!
Miroku: Inuyasha, you were right to trust your instincts on this, but I have a weird feeling. I hope Kagome knows what she’s talking about.
Inuyasha: Don’t worry Miroku, I trust Kagome and if she says they’re the enemy that’s good enough for me. Let’s get them!
Sango: Right! I guess I’ll fight the other girl then. Sorry Kirara, but you should sit this one out. I’ll call you if I need you ok?
Kirara: *Nods head*
Shippou: I’ll beat that little kid over there.

Kaoru: Kenshin! I’m so glad to see you but we must hurry. I learned that if we are to return to our own world, we have to destroy these enemies. That white haired man wants to absorb our abilities so he can become more powerful. We can’t let them get away with it!
Kenshin: I don’t know Kaoru, this doesn’t seem right.
Kaoru: *Makes one big annoyed face* WHAT!? You should know better than to question my judgment Kenshin Himura! They’re the only ones standing between us and where we came from. Let’s get them!
Kenshin: *Making an apology face* all right Kaoru, I’m sorry.
Sanosuke: As long as Kaoru says we have to kick some butt I'm with her! Let’s go!
Yahiko: All right! I can’t wait to see if all my practice pays off.
Misao: Yeah! I love a good fight!

And so, everyone picked a place apart and started fighting. Kenshin and Inuyasha started things off with a traditional sword fight; maybe to test each other skills. Miroku and Sanosuke were so in tune in the fight while Sango and Misao seemed to merely dodge each other’s blows. Shippou started off with an impression of Yahiko; which by the way pissed Yahiko off. Kagome and Kaoru were off to a rocky start as Kagome got hit on the hand by Kaoru’s bamboo sword as she tried to defend herself with her bow. Their fight had begun and nobody, not even Naraku, knew how this was going to end.

End part 19.

Part 20; Sanosuke vs. Miroku:

By Fernand J. Sea/HypnoCrown

And so the battle has begun, Kagura still watched from afar and she got a kick out of all the cool fight moves she could observe. The fights seemed to get intense by the minute; just to make things interesting; we’ll focus on them one by one. For starters, Miroku and Sanosuke will have the honor of being the first ones.

Sanosuke: Let’s see how you like this monk! (Sano throws a mean punch at him)
Miroku: I’m not going down easy! (Blocks attack with his crosier) Hey! Your hand should be swollen by now.
Sanosuke: I guess now you’ll learn a little respect for my abilities huh?

The battle between those two seems to be all about punching and kicking. – Kagura says to herself – I wonder who’s gonna be left standing.

By then Miroku seemed more aggressive, with each blow Sanosuke got more impatient. As Miroku dodged every blow dealt by Sano, he seemed to realize how terrible those attacks were. He knew had to get even more aggressive on his attacks. Sano barely avoided one of his blows as he tried to deliver one well packed kick. Miroku then slipped his crosier staff under Sanosuke’s feet to try to knock him off balance. Sano saw this and jumped but Miroku still caught him in the air and threw Sanosuke to the ground. Sanosuke knew he couldn’t win if he was gonna stay on the ground so he quickly kicked the ground using his special technique and sent many rocks at Miroku’s face. Miroku dodged most of them but some dust still got in his eyes and he had to jump back for a moment to get away from a possible second attack. As Sanosuke got back on his feet, Miroku tried to recover. Sanosuke seized the opportunity and delivered a punch that sent Miroku’s crosier staff flying.

Sanosuke: Now you’re finished monk! You have no weapon anymore.
Miroku: I didn’t want to do this, but I guess I’ll have no other choice.

Miroku didn’t want to have to use his black hole at that time, as he knew just how dangerous it could be; however he felt like he had no other choice to win this. Sanosuke watched as Miroku unveiled the hole in his left hand and everything started flying into it.

Sanosuke: What the hell is that!? I Gotta do something and fast!

Sanosuke quickly punched a hole in the ground and it temporarily shielded him from the black hole’s ferocious pull. As he saw that, he decided to repeat the maneuver and fall back until he was at a safer distance. Sano knew how to deliver an attack from afar and that might just be the answer to defeating this amazing foe. He knew then that Kaoru wasn’t lying about these people. Someone had to stop them and; who better to do so than Kenshin and himself? Miroku, seeing as his foe can use an attack like that to protect himself from his black hole, figured Kagome was correct when she said those humans fused with Naraku. But he figured the black hole wasn’t going to do anymore good against this enemy. But he also found odd that Naraku’s insects weren’t around like in past occasions. As those thoughts left his head, Miroku quickly hid his black hole back and ran in the direction of his crosier staff; seeing as Sanosuke was far away from it by then. Sanosuke then struck the ground with a special move calling a small, inline earthquake to deliver a blow between Miroku and his staff at a distance. Miroku barely managed to unveil his black hole one more time at the attack to block it. By this time, both combatants realized it wasn’t going to be an easy battle if they kept using their abilities.

Sanosuke: All right! I had it with you and that, watchamacallit of yours. Why don’t we just have a good old fashioned fist fight over here?
Miroku: Very well then, but don’t you dare use this as a trick or I’m taking you down with me.

And so, they began throwing punches at one another. Both of them landed pretty good ones at each other but, Sanosuke clearly has an advantage because of all the training he’s been doing lately. Miroku didn’t want to give up then and he bashed Sanosuke on the shoulder as the battle progressed further. After a lot of great moves by both of them, it was Sanosuke who managed to deal a very well placed blow to Miroku. Miroku fell to the ground unconscious and Sanosuke managed to come out as the winner of this fight. As he was about to deliver the finishing blow however, he heard a voice; stopping him in his tracks.

End part 20.