Friends of Every Kind
This is Kairi’s section of the split of the group.

::: Chapter 1 – Angels of the past :::

I looked up into the trees, the sun coming through the spaces between the leaves, and smiled. It’s good to be home. I thought happily. I looked around the forests that I had grown to know so well. I saw a sign ahead and ran towards it.
“I wonder where Makira is… last I saw she was in Tsarena Village.” I said to myself.
My left ear twitched and I pulled out my katanas. A man came running towards me, a large demon behind him.
“Please, Miss, you must help me!” he shouted, ducking behind me.
“Get back…” I said to him and ran forward.
I stopped and stared at this demon that did the same. It was a strange demon, green with strange claws for arms.
“They just keep getting uglier.” I said to myself.
I shot forward and it slashed at me with one of its claws. I moved left quickly then spun right again, katana facing the side, and cut the right claw off, blood shooting onto the ground. It let out a loud hiss and came at me with its other claw. I ducked under it and shot the blade of my other katana upwards severing that claw too, the blood falling on my head this time.
“You don’t get any smarter do you?” I said, mockingly.
The demon backed away fearfully and I sliced through its mid section. Its upper body slid to the right, disembodied from its lower half, and I used the other katana and cut off its head before it hit the ground, as the demon’s blood poured onto the ground. I put away my katanas and faced the man.
“You ok, mister?” I asked.
He stared at me with fright in his eyes.
“You’re some type of demon aren’t you?!”
“Settle down, old man, if I was a demon would I have helped your sorry butt?”
He stared at me strangely.
“T-that is true…” he said and straightened “I’m sorry if I offended you, Miss.”
“The name’s Kairi.”
“Kairi then.” he nodded.
“I’m looking for a girl named Makira, have you seen her?”
He looked at me and asked “What does she look like?”
I sighed… She’d hate for me to tell this guy but it’s the only way I’ll find her.
“She has blonde hair with red bows in them and she wore a blue dress last I saw.”
“Now… there’s many-“
“She has wings on her back and a halo over her head.” I interrupted.
The man looked at me like I was crazy.
“Well, Did you see her or not?! I didn’t risk my life to not find anything out!”
“Yes please excuse me.” he said and cleared his throat. “There’s a young girl like that, or so rumors say. I’ve never seen the wings or halo myself, the girl wasn’t named Makira.” he shook his head. “No, they call her Sira… you should go see for yourself, she’s in Tsarena Village, not too far from here.”
I nodded “Thank you, I will.”
I bowed to him and turned towards Tsarena village.

Why the name change, Makira? I thought as I walked towards the large walls the guarded the village of Tsarena. Tsarena was a small village, the cherry blossom trees in full bloom at the time. I had met Makira when I was about twelve… she’s the daughter of an angel, so the wings tell you. She came to my village with her father, looking for a place to hide. She says a man from their old village saw her wings and halo… who knows what may have happened then. Angels are a rare sight these days with all the demons around.
“What is your business in Tsarena, girl?” the gate guard said, breaking my thoughts.
“Oh… I came here looking for my friend.”
“The king says no one is allowed in unless they have been here before,” he said walking back to the gate. “Tough luck kid.”
“How would you know if someone has been here?!” I asked. “Do you have a list or something?”
The guard looked at the watchman and nodded. The gate watchman rolled open a large scroll.
“In fact, we do.” said, the guard, cockily. “What’s your name, girl?”
I looked away and said “Takiro, Kairi.”
The watchman started to search the list. I sighed and sat against the wall waiting for him to finish.
Did you switch your name to hide? I thought once more. Makira had stayed at my village for two years. When we were fourteen a man with a large spear came to our village. He said he was looking for a girl with wings and a halo… I had overheard my mother’s conversation and I immediately thought of Makira. I ran out of the house towards Makira’s house, and the man apparently followed me. I ran into her house and shouted for her to get away. The man came in with the spear and hit me in the neck with it.

I looked back at the watchman, who was still checking his list. I sighed once more and felt the scar on my neck. That’s how I got this. I thought.
“Here we are… Yoshimaru, let the girl in, she’s on the list.” the watchman said to the guard.
I got up and walked to the gate, as the watchman nodded to me.
I walked next to him and whispered “Thanks, Kasumoto.”
“Go to the house at the far right, the one with the well in front, Kairi. I’ll meet you there soon.”
I walked into the gate and looked around the town I saw so long ago. The man with the spear was named Machihiro. He had come to my village looking for Kasumoto and Makira. He had hoped to control God by imprisoning one of his angels. For all I know he could be using Makira to this day… with all the demons around here I wouldn’t even be surprised to know he was a demon himself.
I rounded the corner of a small house and headed for the furthest house. A few kids were playing near a large cherry blossom tree near there. They waved to me and I waved back, their parents doing the same.
“Good to see you again, Kairi.” said the woman.
“Same to you Mr. and Mrs. Miyataki.” I said, smiling.
I continued towards the house and went inside, taking off my sheath and leaning it against the wall. It was a fairly large house, big enough for at least five people. I decided to take a bath… because my hair was still covered with that demon’s blood. I came out a little later, fully clean and thinking of what to do next. Maybe I’ll make dinner for when Kasumoto gets back. I thought and headed into the kitchen. Time flew by and the next time I checked it was already sunset. The door slid open and closed and I looked around the wall.
“Welcome back, I’m almost finished with dinner.” I said.
“Kairi… you are too kind. You did not have to cook dinner for me.”
I came out and placed food in front of him and myself.
“Then what was I going to eat?” I asked smiling.
He laughed and said “You have not changed at all Kairi Takiro.”
We both ate our dinner; I cleaned up and made some tea so we could talk. I sat back down and looked at Kasumoto.
“Why did you ask me to meet you here?” I asked. “I was looking for-“
“Makira, I know.” he said, sipping his tea. “She has been with that man… Machihiro… for all these years.”
My ears perked up “What, how could he keep her hostage like that for six years?!” I shouted.
“Please, settle down, Kairi and I’ll explain.”
I relaxed a little and Kasumoto looked out the window, shifting my gaze with his.
“He has been keeping her in that house on the top of the hill.”
I stood up quickly, shaking the table.
“Why haven’t you done anything?!” I asked looking down, fists clenched.
“Kairi, please…” he said, and I sat down, still angry. “The problem is I have been trying to get her out. Every time I, or anyone, goes up there they are attacked by demons.”
My ears perked up and I looked at him.
“That means… he must be a demon himself.”
“Yes I suppose you are right, Kairi.”
I got up and picked up my katanas and put them on my back.
“I’ll go get her Kasumoto… I’ll bring her back safely, I promise.”
“Kairi you can’t it’s-“
I ran out the door towards the house. I’m coming Makira… Nobody keeps my friends hostage if I have anything to say about it. I approached the building slowly, and my ears lowered as far as they could go. I can even smell the demons in there. I thought, disgusted. I heard footsteps and leaned against the wall. A strange toad-like demon walked out into the open. I snuck behind him, pulled out one of my katanas and held it to the demons throat and quickly slit it. The demon gurgled and fell over, as I pulled out my other katana and ran into the entrance. Here we go…

I snuck forward, peered around the corner, ran towards one room and ducked inside. I bet she’s near the top. I headed out the room and ran down the dimly lit halls, searching for demons along the way. Was that frog all that was keeping people out? I thought, scoffing. My right ear twitched and I veered right as an arrow shot past.
“Guess not.” I said and ran towards the left wall.
I jumped up and kicked off the wall towards the wall opposite, ricocheting of that wall too. I landed on the ground in front of a demon archer and impaled it through the chest. I better stop fighting or they’ll know someone is in here. I headed for the steps, running up them to the next level. The levels ahead were relatively empty, and I had no trouble getting to the top.
I peered around the door. This is the last level… you can’t go up any more. I saw a light and headed towards it, looking inside.
“Hehe… soon he will give into me. I will control heaven and then I shall take over the Earth as well!” said a large demon with horns.
I heard chains rattle and looked over at a girl hanging from the wall. It was Makira, I would know anywhere.
“You’ll never get anything, Machihiro!” she said, trying to get free. “You’re just demon scum, you’ll never win!”
He looked over at her, angry, and grabbed her face.
“You, wench, are lucky you are alive!” he said, throwing her head to the side. “Not for long… I will kill you soon, my dear.”
He headed for the door and I quickly snuck back to the corner and glanced around. He headed away from me and into a room further down the hall. Good, now’s my chance! I thought sneaking back into the room.

Makira caught sight of me and gasped “Kairi!” she shouted softly.
“Shh… keep quiet; I’ll get you out of here.” I said, sheathing my katanas. “There has to be a key somewhere for those chains.” I said, searching the room.
“Machihiro has them…”
I sighed “Of course he does…” I looked at her “You have to be held hostage by the only smart demon.”
She smiled at me “It’s good to see you Kairi.”
“You too Makira… It’s been a long time.”
“Indeed it has foolish cat…” said a voice behind me.
I whirled around and unsheathed my katanas again. Machihiro stood in the doorway and grinned at me.
“You were the runt that brought me to her… I’d like to thank you.”
My ears lowered and I glared at him. It was my fault… I shook my head. Makira and I both know I didn’t mean to.
He licked his lips “Yes… I think the perfect thank you would be to kill you and drink your blood.” he said, pulling a giant axe off his back.
I stared at him and he charged at me, readying his axe. He swung towards me but I blocked it with my katanas. The axe came closer and my left eye closed. I slid under his legs and jumped up and spun to face him.
“You’re a quick little pussycat aren’t you?” he said, mockingly.
I ran towards the wall and he swung at me. I rolled out of the way and his axe hit into the wall, sticking it in place.
“You’re a dumb cow aren’t you?” I said, back to him.
I ran towards him and he let go of his axe. I swung at him but he grabbed my arm and lifted me up to look him into the eyes.
“Who’s dumber… the demon that is a weapon short yet still winning, or a half-demon, pathetic, and losing even with two swords?”
I grinned at him “I’d have to say the demon that lifted the half-demon that has two hands…“ I said, stabbing him in the throat with my other katana “up to their throat.” I finished.
The demon dropped me and gurgled.
“Damn you, wench… I will not lose!” he said, painfully.
“W-what…” I said, surprised he was alive, let alone could talk.
He walked towards me and I readied my other katana. No… he can’t be alive. That’s not possible… I-I slit his throat! I backed away and he smiled at me.
“What’s wrong kitty? Afraid?”
I’ve come too far… I need to help Makira.
“Time to die…”
No… Makira…
“Oh don’t worry; I’ll kill your little friend too.”
“No!” I said, running up to him and impaling him through the stomach.
“When will you learn?” he said, and lifted me up again, but by my throat this time.
I was weaponless now… I had let Makira down. Machihiro gurgled again, and fell forward letting me go. I sat up quickly, gasping for breath, Machihiro lying dead in front of me.
I smiled and started to laugh “Uh… that was tougher than I expected.”
“Kairi you did it!” Makira said with tears in her eyes.
“Barely…” I said, getting up and picking up the keys.
I unlocked Makira’s chains and she hugged me. I smiled… Makira was my first friend outside of my village. It may seem to some I had betrayed her but I never did… and I still came to save her.
“Makira… your dad’s probably waiting, we should go.”
She nodded, I pulled my katanas out of Machihiro’s throat and stomach, and we headed out of the house and back to Kasumoto.

We walked past the children playing and we waved back to them when they waved. I opened the door to her house and we entered inside.
“Kasumoto, I’m back!” I said, happily.
“Ah, Kairi, back so soon? I told you it would be…” he started and stared at Makira. “M-makira…?” he said, shocked.
“Daddy!” she shouted and ran into her father’s arms.
I smiled at them. It was very different feeling than the first time this had happened. Machihiro entered their house and laughed when he hit me that spear. Makira had run into her father’s arms the same way as she had now… but frightened, not happy. I couldn’t imagine what either of them went through.
“Kairi, I owe you more than my thanks. I owe you my daughter’s life.”
“No problem Kasumoto.” I said, smiling, and paused. “I have a favor to ask.”
“Yes, anything.”
“Uh… I’m looking for two people named Miroku and Sango… have you seen them?”
He shook his head.
“What about a shard of a jewel? Like the one in my village.”
He shook his head once more.
“Oh… do you happen to know anything about a demon named Naraku?”
His head shook once more.
“I’m very sorry Kairi; I’ve heard nothing of the sort.”
“I… I also came to ask Makira for her help… looking for these things.” I said, lowering my ears. “I can’t do this on my own.”
“Of course I’ll help you Kairi!” she said smiling “Just like old times right?”
I smiled “Heh… speaking of old times…” I said, pulling out the katana that glowed blue. “I still have this for you.” I said, taking off a golden circle on the hilt of the katana.
“You actually kept it…” she said, taking it out of my hand. “Thank you…”
She held it in her hands and closed her eyes. A bright light came from her hands and the object expanded until it took the shape of a sword. It had a gold hilt and a silver blade.
“This… was that thing the whole time?!” I said, amazed.
She nodded and went to get ready.
“I’m sorry Kasumoto… I saved her and I took her away pretty quickly.” I apologized, blushing.
“You don’t have to apologize, Kairi, she owes you her life, the least she could do is accompany you on your journey.”
Makira came back out with her newly made sword on her back. We said our farewells to Kasumoto and head off on our journey.

::: Chapter 2 – Friends Forgotten :::

Makira and I were always close… it was a strange relationship. An angel befriending some half-demon was far from what anyone would expect. In my village, we accepted Makira along with her father. If an angel was willing to be friends with a bunch of half-demons and demons alike, who was to stop them? Not all demons are evil… ones that have been around people that they grow to care for are nicer, like Sesshoumaru.
“Kairi what’s wrong?” Makira’s voice came, breaking my thoughts.
“Huh… oh nothing I was just thinking.” I said, smiling.
She nodded “I was asking, why you’re looking for the jewel and this Naraku character.”
“Naraku… he attacked my village.” I said, looking into the sky.
It was still dark, and we were pretty far from Tsarena, on our way towards Utsiti… the place I had tried to get to not even a year before. We should have waited until morning. I thought.
“…Kairi?”
“Oh… yeah sorry... Naraku was the one that attacked my village… he killed everyone, Makira, I was lucky to get away.”
“But… if he killed everyone, why are you trying to find out about him?”
“Because…” I said looking at her “We’re going to kill him for what he’s done to us.”
“I’ll help you Kairi… as much as I can.”
“I knew you would.” I said, smiling. “I was in a group with about 9 others. We split up and went, in groups, different ways.”
It was night when we were halfway to Utsiti, and decided to rest. I sat watch and let Makira sleep. I looked at her sleeping and smiled. When you think about it maybe all of the demons’ attacks were to get Makira. It did increase when she got there and decreased when she was taken away. Both my ears twitched and I looked around. I stood up and unsheathed my katanas, still searching the darkness. I saw something move and ran towards it, pinned it down and held the katana to its throat.
“Master Sesshoumaru, help me!” Jaken shouted.
“Jaken be quiet, she isn’t going to kill you.” Sesshoumaru said coming forward.
I let go of Jaken and stood up, sheathing my katanas.
“What’re you doing walking around so late?” I asked, annoyed.
“Mistress Kairi!” shouted a girl’s voice behind him.
Rin came up behind Sesshoumaru and smiled at me.
“Hello Rin,” I said, smiling back “Didn’t I tell you not to call me mistress though?”
“Oh… you’re right, I’m sorry.” she said, bowing.
Sesshoumaru had changed a lot since he met Rin. He used to kill anything but now he’s mellowed out a bit. He was a friend of my mothers, I’m told. He knew we had a jewel shard yet never attacked our village for it, so he must have considered the people in it.
“Jaken you need to get a backbone, I swear.” I said, sighing.
“You need to learn to look before you kill!” he shouted at me.
“Quiet, Makira’s trying to sleep.”
“Do I look like I care?!” he shouted again.
“You want me to cut off your tongue or your head to shut you up?”
He quickly closed his mouth and turned around. Sesshoumaru also turned around.
“We will meet again, Kairi.” he said and walked away.
Rin and Jaken followed after him and I went back to watch over Makira. Jaken, Sesshoumaru and Rin… I wonder where they were headed.

Makira shook my shoulder.
“Kairi, get up. It’s getting late.”
I opened my eyes slowly.
“I must have fallen asleep.” I said, stretching.
I got up and looked around, shielding my eyes from the sun. Makira pointed right and we headed off. We reached Utsiti at about noon. It was nothing like Tsarena, there were no walls for protection, much like my village. All that protected Utsiti was its village guard. A few men ran over to us with spears, and circled us.
“You are under arrest by the order of our lord!” the captain said.
“We haven’t done anything!” Makira shouted.
“We just got here.” I added in.
Two men went behind us and bound our hands. Then they both pushed us forward.
“Let us go!” I shouted and turned to face the man, kicking him backwards.
Another man ran up to me and held a spear to my neck. I turned back around we were taken to their castle. They took us both to a small jail cell and threw us in. I sat up and swore at the man that threw us in.
“Swear and yell all you want, wench, you will not get out.” he said, laughing.
“Why do you think the lord of this city would want us in jail?” Makira asked.
“Hell if I know…” I said, leaning against the wall. “We might as well wait and find out.”
The guard came back and grinned at us, showing fangs.
“The lord says we may eat you.” he hissed.
“You’re some kind of demon huh?!” I said, jumping up and trying to get my katanas.
Damn… I can’t fight. I looked over at Makira whose hands were also tied. I shook my head as the bars slid open.
“Who shall I eat first? The cat or perhaps her little angel friend?” he aid, licking his lips.
A curved sword appeared through the demon’s stomach and his eyes widened. He turned his head slowly to look behind him and the sword appeared in his throat. The demon gurgled and fell to its knees. A girl in black stood behind him. She had orange eyes, light brown hair and a dark brown skirt.
“Better late than never right, you two?” she said, grinning.
“Kazu!” we both shouted.
Kazu was another friend of mine… you could say she’s a devil… literally. She’s a type of demon that paid allegiance to the devil himself. How did she become my friend, let alone that of an angel? On her shirt is a picture of a sword. That picture is the last thing my father did. She had attacked our village looking for the jewel and my mother tells me that my father went to face her. He sealed that picture into her flesh through that spot on her shirt. That made her docile for a year or two, but my father was killed in the process. In those two years we had become pretty close.
She walked over to us and cut the ropes that bound our arms.
“Thanks a lot Kazu,” I said, massaging my wrist “but how did you know we were here?”
“You always did forget things quickly Kairi… you should know Utsiti is my home.” she said, putting her sword back into its sheath on her side.
“This isn’t going to get any easier, you’d best be ready to fight our way out.” she continued.
We walked towards the side of the castle, and looked around the corner. A large number of demons blocked the way to the stairs. I pulled out my katanas and the others got their swords. Kazu turned the corner and ran towards the demons as we followed her. I followed behind Kazu and she jumped when we got to the demons, averting their gaze. I grinned and slashed the side of the first demon. I skidded to a stop and twirled the red katana. Makira impaled the demon beside the one I had just killed and stood behind me.
We stood there a couple of seconds “Not too bad Makira…” I said. “Never knew you could fight so well.”
“Of course… you taught me yourself.” she said, laughing.
“…Now…” I said, and we ran opposite directions.
I impaled a demon to the right and spun to the left one, ducking under its sword and impaling its head from the ground. My right ear twitched and spun to the left, lifting my katana and cut the attacking demon’s throat. Kazu had fought through the group and stood with the leader. Makira ran towards me and I ran towards her. I flipped my katanas to face forward and faced them towards her. She moved left quickly and I rushed forward stabbing the following demon through the heart. We smiled at each other and I held the blue katana with two fingers.
“Get ready Kazu!” I shouted and threw it towards her.
She ducked quickly and impaled the demon through the chest as my katana impaled it through its head. The demon stood there, lifeless and Kazu pulled the sword and my katana out of the demon’s body, making it fall to the ground. We walked closer to her and she tossed it back to me.
“Nice thinking there, Kairi, been a while since we did that.”
“It was exciting, I have to admit…” said Makira.
“Who would have thought an angel could kill like that.” I said, grinning.
We headed down the steps and towards the door. If anything was learned from this, it would be one thing. Don’t piss angels off.

::: Chapter 3 – Snakes, Fires, and Demons :::

We all stood outside of the town, hidden in the trees.
“Why were you two in Utsiti anyway?” Kazu asked.
“I’m looking for my friends, and information on jewel shards and a demon named Naraku.” I explained.
“Naraku huh?” she said, thinking “That name sounds familiar to me.”
“What, really?!” I shouted.
“Tell us Kazu!” Makira shouted beside me.
“Hold on now… you two were held captive by those weak demons. You’re in no way ready to fight Naraku.”
“They were disguised as humans, we couldn’t kill them!” Makira shouted.
“That’s exactly my point… you think Naraku will be any different?”
I looked down, thinking “No… you’re right Kazu.”
“Then we’re right back where we started.” Makira sighed.
“Did I start with you?” Kazu asked, smiling. “I’m coming along to help whether you like it or not.” She winked.
“All right!” I said looking up, smiling also.
“You’re the best Kazu!” Makira chimed in.
We headed back towards Tsarena village, hearing from Kazu that there were demon sightings in a city beyond there recently. The city was called Kashirimoto, and it was one of the largest in the area.
Makira looked longingly at Tsarena village as we passed. Kazu and I looked at each other and nodded. We walked over to her and grabbed her arms, pulling her towards Tsarena. She laughed and we let go, smiling, and headed towards Kasumoto’s house. We slid the door open and looked around.
“Kasumoto, we’re back!” I shouted into the house.
“You’ve returned already?” he asked and rounded the corner. “Oh… so all of you have found each other yet again.” he smiled.
“It’s good to see you, Kasumoto.” Kazu said, nodding.
Both Kazu and Makira went to wash up as I cooked dinner once more.
“You always think of others, Kairi.” Kasumoto said.
“Do I, or am I just helping myself and you are all sucked into it?” I said, smiling.
“That’s a good question.” he said, laughing.
I served dinner and the others came and ate. We all went to bed, and woke up the next morning. We bid our farewells to Kasumoto, thanking him for his hospitality, and headed for Kashirimoto.

We continued down the path to Kashirimoto, passing the demon’s corpse that I had killed when I first started. I let out a small laugh and shook my head.
“You think they would have cleaned that up.” I said, smiling.
“It’s pretty far from the village and it’s not alive,” Makira thought, out loud “so I guess nobody cares if it’s there.”
We continued past the crossroads and came to a small outpost, half way to Kashirimoto. My ears lowered and I looked inside.
“When did this get here?” I asked, suspiciously.
“It’s too big to be a normal outpost…” Kazu said, walking inside.
We headed to the main office overlooking the rest of the compound on a small hill. I unsheathed my katanas and looked around.
“Something is definitely not right here.” I said, as Kazu and Makira got out their swords.
I heard a loud crash behind us and wood splintered forward passing my face. I spun around and a giant snake, mouth open, rammed its way into the building and pinned me to the wall. I pressed against the wall trying to stop the demon from eating me. Think Kairi… there has to be something you can do. I thought looking around. I grinned and jumped up as the snake’s fangs flew into the wall. I landed softly on its head and stabbed it with one of my katanas. With the katana in its head, I ran down the demon’s back, blood shooting up from behind me. I reached the tail and jumped off and spun to look at the snake, hissing. It flew to the ground and I ran out the door and down the hill.
“Makira, Kazu!” I shouted, looking around. “Where are you?!”
My right ear twitched and I ran right towards another small house. Makira was lying on the ground, holding her shoulder. Another large snake was reared up, looking down at her. It shot forwards as did I, sliding to a stop under its neck and stabbing my katanas through its head. I rolled out of the way before the snake’s body fell to the ground. I got up and nodded to Makira, helping her up. I walked back over to the snake and pulled out my katanas.
“Everywhere we go we get attacked… I have a feeling somebody doesn’t like us.” I said, angry.
We headed out the door and went to the edge of the outpost. Kazu, her hair covered in blood, nodded at us as we approached. We nodded back and headed away from the outpost. We decided to rest so Makira’s arm could recover before we started off again.
“I’m sorry, you guys…” she said looking at us both.
“No problem Makira.” Kazu said, smiling.
“Things like this happen… you just need to make sure you can improvise.” I said, bandaging her arm.
“I’m not slowing you down am I?” she asked, quietly.
“Of course not.” I said, smiling.
“Even if you are it’s ok with us.” Kazu said, winking at her.
She laughed at this and we continued back on our journey.

Kashirimoto… it was much like Tsarena in the ‘walls’ department. The three of us had come here once before to fool around. Needless to say, we nearly got ourselves banned from the city. We walked up to the gate and when the guard caught sight of us he flinched, rather noticeably.
“Y-you three again, W-what do you want?”
“We just came here to rest…” Kazu said, staring at him.
“We’ve heard that before… but, I will allow you in if you promise not to burn anything down this time.”
“It wasn’t our fault you had torches near the castle…” I said, looking up. “At least it’s stone and not straw now.”
Makira laughed quietly and the guard let us into the town. We had been practicing to fight, while I was first teaching Makira. Makira wasn’t as… good… as she was now, and knocked a torch out of its holder. It had flown upwards and landed near the castle doors, straw at the time, and lit the whole castle on fire. We headed towards the inn and got a room. We had dinner, went to bed, and arose the next morning.
“Ok we’ll look for information today… anything suspicious.” Kazu instructed.
We all headed off in different directions. I talked to a few people before a girl shouted my name. Ryoth and Arliss ran towards me and stopped in front of me, smiling.
“Are you guys following me or something?” I asked, grinning.
“Shouldn’t we ask you the same thing?” Ryoth asked.
“Do you wanna know?”
“Do we not wanna know?”
“Are we playing ‘Questions only’ or something?” I asked laughing.
Arliss smiled and shook her head.
“No we’re not following you. We came here to work for a bit.”
“The guards said they needed people to help keep the castle from being burnt down again.”
I laughed again and they looked at me, confused. I shook my head and bid my farewells. They really don’t trust us, do they? I grinned. It was getting late and I decided to head back to the inn. Makira was already there when I arrived. We smiled at each other and I sat down with her to see if she found anything out. Turns out that she found nothing just like me. Kazu came back at nightfall.
“People have been saying demons are becoming more common around Mishitomo.” Kazu said, sitting down. “We’d best head there next.”
We all nodded and went to rest before we headed off to our new destination, Mishitomo.

::: Chapter 4 – Unknown Encounters :::

Mishitomo could hardly be considered a town; it had no walls and a very small town guard. For some reason the town was very lively today; a large group of people stood in a circle in the middle of the town.
“I wonder what’s happening.” Makira said, staring at the crowd.
“I have a way to find out.” I said, heading towards them.
I pushed my way to the front of the circle and saw three people there. One boy was wearing a purple robe and carried a gold staff. The girl next to him wore black clothes and held a giant boomerang. The man they faced grinned at them, showing his teeth. I pushed my way through the crowd and headed for Makira and Kazu.
“Seems like a couple people are slaying a demon in there.” I said, putting my hands behind my head.
“Hmm… I guess they got here before us.” said Kazu. “Well… we’d better head back to Kashirimoto.”
We headed back towards the gates and a large bee shot past my face. I stopped and turned to see many more flying near the two people, everyone surrounding them was on the ground.
“W-what the…” I said, and got my katanas out.
Kazu was already rushing towards the two people and I followed after her. Many more demons appeared behind the demon that was grinning.
“Get ready you two… this isn’t going to be easy.” Kazu shouted back at us.
I looked back at Makira who was running behind me. We nodded to one another and ran opposite directions, as Kazu went straight. The demons behind the leader split and went in each direction. One shot at me and I slit its throat as I turned and ran towards the two people. A large snake type demon shot in front of me and caught me by surprise. I fell backwards and the demon turned and shot at me again, opening its mouth, and swallowed me.
I swore loudly and tried to look through the darkness. Great… just great I thought. The demon’s saliva dripped from the roof of its mouth and landed on my head, as I shot my katana upwards and started circling its body. Blood shot from the cut forming in its body, covering the rest of my body. Suddenly, light shot into my eyes, and I lunged towards it. I landed hard on the ground and rolled a couple feet leaving a trail of blood behind me. I sat up quickly and coughed, trying to get the demon’s blood out of my throat. A hand touched my shoulder and I twirled around, katana in hand, and held it forward.
“That was pretty fancy,” the girl said.
“Next time I recommend you don’t try that, Kairi.” Kazu said from behind her.
I looked into the girls eyes and grinned, blood running down my face. She helped me up, my hand leaving blood on hers, and headed over to Makira. The boy came over and grabbed my hands.
“You are a very brave and beautiful woman.” he said.
“Uh… I…” I started, confused.
“Would you bear my child?” he said, looking into my eyes.
“W-what?!” I shouted looking up at him, blushing. “Y-you can’t be serious…”
“Oh but I am…” he said, as the girl walked up behind him.
She hit him on the head and glared at him angrily. He laughed at her nervously and smiled.
“We’ll be going now,” she said looking away “You three be careful out there. Don’t get eaten again.” she said looking at me again.
“Wait… who was that?” I asked.
“Who, the monk?” the girl said, looking at the boy.
“That was Naraku, Kairi.” Kazu said, walking over with Makira.
The girl nodded, bowed and walked off with the boy next to her.
“Did anyone catch their names?” asked Makira.
“No…” Kazu said, looking at me. “How about we head back to Kasumoto? You could really use a bath Kairi.”
Blood dripped from my hair as I nodded. I picked up my other katana and we headed out the gates and back towards Tsarena.

::: Chapter 5 – Reuniting :::

It had been about a month since I started this adventure. I walked around Tsarena looking at the houses and waving to people that passed by. I entered Kasumoto’s house again and smiled at Kazu.
“Find anything?” she asked, still looking away.
I sat across from her and nodded. Kazu was bandaging one of her wings from the battle not too long ago. We had been resting here for about two weeks, trying to get information.
“You actually used your wings in that last one?” I said, looking at the black feathers that I rarely see.
She nodded “You said you found something…”
“Oh… technically no, I haven’t found anything out. I do, however, need to meet the others… it’s been a month and we promised to meet back at the well.”
Kazu stood up and nodded. I stood also and headed further into the house and got Makira. We headed out of Tsarena and towards the Bone Eaters Well. We were the first to get there so I set my katanas down and sat next to them.
“I guess we just wait.” I said, looking into the sky.
Kazu and Makira sat next to me and we all started talking about the recent months. I heard footsteps and leaned my head backwards. I smiled at Krystal as she waved. Makira caught sight of me and looked back also; this also made Kazu look back.
“Hey Krystal… been awhile.” I said, getting up.
“Good to see you Kairi.” she said and looked at Makira and Kazu. “Who’re your friends?”
“Oh this is Makira and Kazu.” I said. “They’ve been helping me.”
“Nice to meet you,” she said, smiling “Ash will be here soon.”
She sat next to Makira and the talking started again. Ash came a few minutes later and sat next to her. Shugo and his group came a few minutes later, followed by Inuyasha.
Kagome came first and smiled “Hey Kairi, good to see you.”
“Any luck with Miroku and Sango, Kagome?” Ash asked, looking at her.
“Yeah we found them a few days ago.” she said, thinking “They said they had fought Naraku too.”
“Will you just keep going Miroku?!” a girl yelled from behind Kagome.
That voice… I thought. Sango and Miroku came into view and Kazu, Makira, and I stood up quickly. This was the boy and girl we had met in Mishitomo.
“You!” I shouted at Sango.
“You’re Sango?” Kazu asked.
She looked at me and cocked her head “Hey you’re the girl that got eaten by that demon. Kairi was it?”
I laughed weakly “Yeah… that’s me.”
Miroku came up to me and took my hands.
“Ah so we meet again.”
I laughed nervously “Miroku I suppose?”
Sango came up and smacked Miroku in the head.
“Hands off Monk.” she said, angry.
I smiled at them and we all talked about what we did the past month. It seems nobody had found anything out about Naraku… big surprise there. We did however accomplish finding Miroku and Sango. After a few suggestions, we decided to continue the way we had been; this time we were going to meet in a year. We bid our farewells and we headed back to Tsarena to look for information. Sundown came fairly quickly and we headed back to Kasumoto to eat and sleep.

::: Chapter 6 – Love, Puppets, and Tests :::

After another unsuccessful day of information gathering, I headed back to Kasumoto’s. I sighed as I passed the cheery blossom tree. We’re getting nowhere… I thought. I headed inside and sat down at the table, my ears drooping.
“This isn’t working… we’ve been here for weeks.” I said, fiddling with a coin on the table.
“We just have to keep trying.” Makira said, sighing also.
“We could head back to Kashirimoto…” Kazu suggested, grinning.
“Nah we’ve been there… and beside they hate us.” I said, smiling.
Kazu looked at the ceiling, amused “I hear Takio’s there…”
“W-What?!” I shouted, the coin flying out of my hand and hitting Makira in the head.
She let out a small ‘Ow’ as I blushed and looked away from Kazu.
“W-what makes you think that would get me to go?”
Takio… he’s a friend of mine. I may act strangely when somebody mentions him but it’s not how you think. I don’t love him; he’s just a friend… I think.
“Isn’t it obvious?” she said, grinning at me slyly. “You’re even blushing about it.”
I stood up quickly and headed for the door.
“You know what? Just to prove to you Takio’s just my friend, we’re going to Kashirmoto.”
“Uh-huh… just keep telling yourself that Kairi.” Kazu said, cheerfully.

After apologizing to Makira about hitting her with the coin, we got our things and headed for Kashirimoto. It was just about winter time and all the trees on the way had hardly any leaves. Snow was coming down making it hard to see, no thanks to night coming in a few hours. Makira was walking ahead of me and Kazu was behind.
She came up behind me and whispered “Takio.”
“Shut up!” I shouted back at her and walked up with Makira, Kazu laughing quietly behind me.
When we reached Kashirimoto it was dark and the snowfall had only worsened. We walked towards the gates; the city beyond them looking rather gloomy at night. I headed in first and my right ear twitched. I pulled out my katanas quickly and deflected an arrow. I ran towards the archer and grabbed their arm, pulling it in front of me over my shoulder, turned so my back faced them, and held the blue katana up to their throat. They were breathing heavily and I heard them gulp.
“So… wanna tell me who you are before I kill you?” I said, pushing my katana closer to their throat.
“K-kairi?” she said, slowly.
My ears perked up and I let go of their arm, turning around. Arliss stood in front of me massaging her throat.
“Arli… I thought you were a demon.” I said, putting my katanas away.
Makira and Kazu ran through the snow and stopped behind me. Makira looked at me worried and Kazu sighed as she put back her sword. Arliss picked her bow up off the ground and put it on her back.
“That’s exactly why I’m here… the guards here tightened watch on the gates. I thought you were a demon.”
I shook my head and started walking towards the inn “You know where we’ll be if you need us, Arli!”
Kazu followed after me and Makira bowed. She put her sword back and ran after Kazu and I. We spent the night eating and talking and in the morning the snow had stopped. It may not snow often… but when it does it snows way too much. The innkeeper asked us to ram the door to try to get it open the snow was so high! Well… that lucky person to knock down the door was me. I backed away from the door and ran towards it full speed. I slammed my shoulder into it, breaking a hole in the middle as I continued through it and fell in the fifteen inches of snow. I stood up quickly and shivered. I hate snow. I thought as the owner’s voice shouted ‘You’re paying for a new door!’ I sighed at this and a snowball pelted me in the face and I glared at Makira who smiled at me.
“Oh you are so dead.” I said, smiling back to her.
Makira stepped back, slipped and fell into the snow also. I laughed and so did she. Then again… maybe snow isn’t that bad. I thought grinning.
After warming up a bit back in the inn, I headed off towards Takio’s house. My ears were lowered as I knocked on their door. What if he doesn’t even remember me? The door creaked open and my ears shot up as I blushed.
“Kairi?” a young man asked.
“T-takio?” I asked in reply.
“Long time no see!” he said, smiling. He looked back into his house and said “How about we walk and talk?”
“I don’t wanna interrupt anything…”
“No you’re not… but we should enjoy the snow when it’s here.”
He came outside and we started talking. The next time I looked we were at the castle.
“Why’re we here? We’re not allowed inside.”
“Of course we are,” he said, stepping inside “Who’s stopping us?”
There was a pause and I nodded and stepped inside. I followed behind Takio as we continued through the torch-lit hallways. He led me upstairs and our talking ceased. I looked around worried but still followed him. He stopped suddenly and turned around.
“…T-takio, why’d you bring me all the way here?” I asked a bit frightened.
“It’s quieter here… nice katanas.” he said looking at them on my back.
“Uh… thank you,” I said, pulling them out. “They were a gift.”
“Can I see one, the red one maybe?” he said, holding out his hand.
“I-I guess so…” I said, handing it to him “Just be careful with it.”
“It’s nice; whoever gave it to you must have been a good fighter.” he said, smiling.
I smiled back at him, eyes closed, and he came closer. He bent down and whispered ‘Foolish cat… this will be the last time you meddle in my affairs.’ and thrust the katana through my chest. My eyes shot open and I breathed heavily.
“Kazu…” he said, grinning.
“Who… are you?” I asked, blood running from my mouth, falling to the ground. “Why did you… say Kazu’s name?”
“I am Naraku, little cat… and your little friend Takio has become a great addition to my ‘puppets’ shall we call them.”
“N-naraku…” I said, slowly “…Kazu?”
He laughed sinisterly and I fell to my knees. I shook my head Kazu… you know so much about Naraku… and… you suggested we come here to see Takio… you knew? I thought my eyes half-closed. I fell forwards and blacked out.

Kazu… were you just using us? I opened my eyes slowly and looked around. Well… I’m not dead at least. I was back at the inn. I sat up, grimaced, and held my chest where bandages were covering my wound.
“Kairi please just lie down!” Makira shouted at me, worried.
“Makira… did you save me?”
She shook her head “No Kazu did.”
“Hmph acting like our friend…”
“S-she is our friend… what’s gotten into you?”
“Why don’t you ask her?!”
“I did… she said she had a strange feeling.”
“Yeah… I really believe that.”
“She didn’t do anything Kairi… she was with us the whole time.” Makira said and shook her head. “Now you go tell her you’re sorry!” she shouted at me angry.
This was a side of Makira I had never seen… either I was really wrong or we had two different people named Kazu. I looked away and swore under my breath.
“She doesn’t deserve an apology.”
“Dammit, Kairi, you go apologize to her now!” she said, glaring at me.
This is the first time I had ever heard Makira swear… Makira never swears… I must really be wrong about this. I looked at her, surprised, and nodded.
“Ok… I’ll apologize.” I said ears lowered.
I got up slowly, being careful of my side, and walked to the door. Kazu sat at the table drinking what looked like sake. I’ve never seen Kazu drink anything before… either I’m in an alternate reality or I did something extremely stupid. I looked back, with my ears lowered as far as they could go, at Makira who looked back at me sternly. I walked through the door and towards Kazu.
“K-kazu?” I asked, softly.
“Yeah, what is it?” she said, expressionless.
“I’d just like to thank you… for saving me.”
She looked back at me, surprised, and then smiled. I nodded and sat next to her. Makira came out and stared at me.
“Just because we’re all friends again doesn’t mean you weren’t impaled by a sword… get back in bed.” she said, smiling.
Kazu laughed and I stood up, smiling. I headed back to bed to rest for a few days.

::: Chapter 7 – Sake and Drugs :::

The days went by quickly before I was fully healed. It had stopped snowing a few days earlier, but it was still cold around Kashirimoto. All the trees had died by now and a thin layer of snow lay on each one. Takio and any mention of him being there disappeared during this time… it was like he never existed. I cooked breakfast for the first time in weeks and we all ate before packing up to head for Tsarena once more.
While the snow was gone it was still freezing outside. Makira looked at me, her breath visible, and smiled. I nodded back to her and we rounded the bend and headed towards Tsarena’s gates. The guard looked at me and nodded, no emotion showing on his face. We passed the cherry blossom tree, dead also, and headed towards Kasumoto’s house.
“Ah, Kairi, you’re back. A few men were looking for you.” he said, looking at me.
“Me…?” I asked, confused.
He nodded and Kazu asked “Where were they from Kasumoto?”
“I believe they said they were from Oshimaru…” I said, thinking.
“Well… we should go see what they wanted.” Makira said, nodding to her father.
I sighed and turned around “I guess so…”

We headed back out of Tsarena and headed towards Utsiti. After a suggestion from Makira we decided to sneak around Utsiti so we wouldn’t get arrested again. After we were safely away from Utsiti we continued north again towards Oshimaru.
Oshimaru was almost an exact double of Tsarena, with its walls and hills. Not to mention… it’s stubborn guards.
“Why not?!” I shouted at the first guard.
“The king has made a strict rule about outsiders…” he said, looking me over. “Especially outsiders of your kind.”
My right ear twitched and I looked at him angrily.
Makira’s voice broke in “Please can’t you let us in? We’re just trying to find somebody that was looking for us earlier.”
“I’m sorry little girl, but we can’t even let you in.”
Makira sighed and a voice came from behind us.
“Kairi?”
I turned around quickly, katanas out, and saw a boy running up the hill.
“Yes it is you… I knew you’d return to me one day!” he said opening his arms.
I sighed loudly, facing my katana at him, and said “Great… Yiko... You touch me and I’ll kill you.”
He stopped suddenly and smiled, lowering his arms. He laughed nervously and continued forward towards us, slowly.
“Where’d you find this guy?” Kazu whispered.
I sighed again “I’ll tell you later.”
Yiko was never my most… tolerated… ‘friend’. I was about eighteen at the time, and I had gone on an errand for my mother. I came up through Utsiti and arrived in Oshimaru. I finished my errand and set back out for Ayemray. On the way I encountered a demon attacking a young boy… that boy was Yiko. I killed the demon, saving his life… now he’ll never leave me alone for it.
He reached us, bowing to the others, and hugged me. My right ear twitched again.
I slapped him and shouted “What the hell don’t you understand about ‘Don’t touch me’?!”
“You know these girls, Yiko?” the guard asked.
“I know Kai… and I’m sure these are her friends.”
I glared at him and said “What did you just call me?”
“Aww come on Kai…” he said, patting me on the head, playing with my ears.
I grabbed his hand and glared into his eyes.
“You ever touch my ears again and I’ll rip your heart out through your throat.”
I let go of his hand and he smiled nervously and backed away a bit.
“Well then… you may go in.” the guard said, stepping aside.
“R-really?” Makira asked, smiling. “Thank you!”
“You’re just lucky Yiko knows you.”
“Heh… see Kai?” he said smiling at me.
I looked away and grunted “Fine you’re not totally useless.”
“Uh… I guess I’ll take that as a compliment.” he said, starting inside.
I sighed again and followed Kazu and Makira who, in turn, followed Yiko. We continued through the city’s streets and came to Yiko’s house.
“Yiko… we’re not staying here if that’s what you think.”
“Of course you did, you came to see me.”
“No I didn’t… we were looking for a couple men that were looking for me.”
“Yeah exactly.”
“W-what did you say?” I said fist clenched, my ear twitching again.
“I’m the one that came looking for you.”
“Y-you little… freak!” I shouted starting to run at him. Kazu grabbed the collar of my shirt as I tried to get closer to him.
“Kairi… there’s no need to maim the poor kid.”
“I saved his life! He owes me a maiming!” I shouted trying to get out of her grasp.
“Kairi… bad girl, sit.” Makira said to me, smiling.
“I am not some dumb animal!” I shouted stopping. “Fine, stay here if you want I’m heading to the inn.
I headed towards the inn but Kazu and Makira stayed with Yiko. My right ear twitched again. Damn him… why won’t he leave me alone. So I saved his life… you think he could leave me alone as thanks. I thought, taking another drink of the sake there. I looked at the bottle on the table. I shouldn’t be drinking… that’s not going to help me any. I thought. A man walked into the inn and sat next to me.
“Mind if I join you Miss?” he asked.
“Nah, help yourself.” I said, motioning to the bottle.
“You look sad.” he said, pouring himself a glass.
“Maybe… why do you care?” I said, finishing mine.
He poured me more and continued talking. After a couple hours of talking he stood up.
“Nice talking to you… Kairi.” he said, touching my back.
I looked at him and he nodded to me and left the inn. I shook my head and stared at the door. A loud noise came from outside and I stood up slowly and shook my head again. My ears lowered and I walked to the door to see what happened. A large demon was reared up looking down at Kazu who had her sword out. Makira and Yiko stood behind her, Makira protecting Yiko. I pulled out my katanas and ran towards them.
“Kairi!” Makira shouted at me as soon as she saw me.
I nodded to her but stopped and shook my head again. I staggered towards them and my vision was blurry. A pain started in my head. That man… who was he? How does he know me? I thought. I thought back to the strange man… we had talked and drank for hours. That man… I fell backwards and sat watching Kazu, unable to move. What did he do to me? The demon circled Kazu who moved in order to protect Makira and Yiko.
“Kairi, dammit, get up and help me!” she shouted.
I shook my head. I can’t… something’s wrong Kazu… I can’t talk. The demon lunged at her. That man… I thought and passed out.

I awoke in the inn slowly and had a pain in my back. Kazu leaned over the bed and looked into my eyes. She smiled sweetly and nodded.
“Hey good to see you up.” she said, smiling.
“Kazu…?” I said, the pain starting in my head again.
“Don’t try talking Kairi… you were pretty drunk and something was shot into you through your back.” she said, concerned.
“That man… he touched my back…” I started.
“What man?” she asked confused.
“Some guy… he came in and we drank sake together… and he touched my back before he left. I never saw his face.”
“Well… I hate to mention this but I think that was Naraku or one of his apothecaries.”
“Apothecaries…?” I asked confused.
“It’s… uh… kinda like a drug dealer or along those lines.” she said, nodding to me. “Now you’ve talked enough… the drugs should be wearing off… so try to sleep the rest off.”
I shook my head and looked at her “Let me talk to Yiko.”
She looked at me confused and stood up, nodding. Yiko poked his head around the corner.
“Kai, you wanted to see me?” he asked walking in the room.
“Yiko… I’m sorry about how I treated you. Let’s try it again, shall we?”
I stuck out my hand and he grabbed it.
“My name’s Kairi Takiro, nice to meet you.”
“Kai…are you sure you’re ok?” he said, confused.
“Yeah… I just had to think I guess.” I looked out the window. “We’ll be leaving tomorrow, but you still can’t come with us.” I looked back at him. “But I promise we’ll visit again, to thank you for your hospitality to Makira and Kazu.”
He nodded and left the room, as I went back to sleep. He’s a sweet kid… maybe we’ll actually get along.

::: Chapter 8 – Family Ties :::

We set out as soon as I came to and headed for the gates. I waved good bye to Yiko and walked away. Kazu followed after me as Makira bowed and did the same. We started talking and I lost track of time. Kazu stopped and I turned around… we were at Utsiti. My ears lowered as I saw the smoke rising from within the city. I heard a sword unsheathe and Kazu walked next to me.
“We’d best go take a look.” she said, continuing forward.
I got out my katanas and headed in behind Kazu. We continued towards the smoke until we came to the inn where the path split. Makira and I went left as Kazu went right. Something’s not right, there’s nobody here. I thought. I started around a corner as a sword shot at my head. I blocked it with my katanas, ducked under it and held the other katana up to the attacker’s throat. I looked up at them; it was a girl. She had white hair and wore a heavy suit of black armor, rimmed with a gold color at the bottom of each section. She also wore a helmet that showed only her eyes and mouth; her hair was long and visible from the outside of her helmet. I lowered my katana and looked into her blue eyes.
“Who are you?” I asked.
“Hmph… is that how you always act? Attack first then ask questions?” she asked in reply, sheathing her sword.
She had two swords, one a katana the other a Great Katana. The great katana had a large silver blade and a brown and golden hilt. The katana had a jagged edge blade. I looked back at her face.
“I’m sorry… who attacked who here?” I said, narrowing my eyes.
“True… it was I that attacked you first… You had better leave now, miss.”
She turned and started to leave; this wasn’t an ordinary warrior… she had a tail.
I shook my head “Nothing doing Ms. High-and-Mighty. We came to help and we’ll do just that.”
She looked back at me and smiled “You have courage… ok, you may come.”
I walked next to this girl with a tail. Who is she…?

She entered a small house and Makira and I followed. The girl placed her weapons at the door and sat down. Makira and I looked at each other and we sat across from her.
“So… mind telling me who you are?”
“My name’s Makira and this is Kairi.” Makira explained.
“Kairi you say…?” she said, looking confused. “What is your last name Kairi?”
I looked at her strangely “Takiro, Why?
A tear ran down her face and fell to the floor.
“Are you ok, miss?” Makira asked, concerned.
She looked up and smiled, tears still in her eyes.
“Do you remember your sister Kairi?” she asked quietly.
“H-how do you know about Mikiro…?”
My older sister… Mikiro. She was killed by Naraku when he attacked our village… wasn’t she?
“I-I know this will sound stupid and I do not blame you if you do not believe me… but I’m Mikiro.”
I stared at her, disbelievingly and she smiled. But… her tail… I thought as she took off her helmet. She had cat ears too… only they matched her darker skin. It was then I remembered something about Mikiro, she was my half-sister. Her father was a full demon like our mother… but he had died with a demon attack soon after. Two years later my mother married my father but he also died twelve years after I was born. This explains why Mikiro had a tail… she was a full demon.
Tears started down my face as I looked into her eyes.
“Mikiro… I thought you were dead.” I cried, and moved next to her.
“You have really grown up Kairi.” she said, rubbing my head. “You too Makira.”
Makira smiled, blushing “I’m flattered you remember me.”
“It has not been that long…” she said, smiling.
“Mikiro, what’s with the armor?” I said, the tears stopping slowly.
She smiled at me and said “I have been training since I heard about the attack on Ayemray. I am a samurai now…”
“That explains why she’s not using any contractions…” Makira whispered.
We looked at her and she looked away quickly, blushing.
I laughed and she said “I’m so sorry… I didn’t know I said that out loud.”
“Nothing to be sorry about… Once you stop using them it does not seem strange to not hear them.” Mikiro said, smiling. “Besides… I sorta feel the part when I don’t use them.” She laughed “See I can sound normal but it makes you more carefree… I was taught not to act that way when I’m actually fighting or when I need to be serious.”
I smiled at her and Makira laughed. We joined her until we heard a noise outside. Mikiro stood up and faced the door.
“Why’re you guys fooling around?” Kazu said, annoyed. “I killed the rest of the demons… no thanks to you two.”
I apologized to her and told her about Mikiro. Kazu looked at her and smiled. Mikiro nodded back to Kazu and we convinced her to come with us on our journey. We left the ruins that were once Utsiti and headed back towards Tsarena.

We decided to head past Tsarena and look in cities beyond that. Mikiro lead the way as I followed behind her. Kazu and Makira were talking quietly behind me. I stared at my sister’s back and the armor she was wearing admiringly. Her tail swayed back and forth as she walked, along with her weapons. She stopped suddenly and I cocked my head her. She continued walking and then broke into a run.
“What’s wrong?!” I shouted at her as the three of us followed.
“We must hurry. We are being followed.”
She skidded to a halt and turned around. She motioned for us to keep going. Kazu and Makira went ahead as I stared at her. She glared at me seriously and I ran after Kazu and Makira. I stopped and stared back at Mikiro. She pulled out her katana slowly and held it backwards in her left hand. She held the great katana in her other hand and then moved the blade around to her other arm and held it with her other hand. She stopped moving and the wind rustled the few leaves in the trees.
She moved suddenly, slashing the great katana outwards and sliced a demon in half, its blood splattering on her. She turned her sword around and held it over the demon. She held her hand in front of her face then moved it to the side. The blade of her great katana glowed green and she shot it into the demon’s head. There was a loud hiss and the demon’s body disintegrated. She put her katanas back and turned to face me.
She licked the blood off of the part of face her tongue could reach and spit it onto the ground. She wiped the rest of the blood off her face and stared at me. She walked towards me and smiled as she passed. I stared back at where the demon was… How’d she do that?

We decided to go to the town in the far north, Kiriyama. After resting in Kashirimoto and getting supplies for our journey, we headed to the mountains we would have to cross. A large river curved around the base of the mountain leading west. We decided to continue and stopped on a large ledge for the night. It got late and Makira was asleep. Kazu sat facing the path we just came from; she was leaned against the wall so I assumed she was asleep too. Mikiro and I sat at the campfire and talked about Ayemray and everything that happened after the attack.
Turns out she wasn’t just trained as a Samurai… that thing she did with her hands was Ninjutsu. She was trained, like me, in how to use katanas by Master Kakashi. That new great katana… it must be from the person that taught her Ninjutsu. Mikiro looked into the fire and smiled.
“It’s good to see you again Kairi… I thought you died. You’re lucky Krystal found you.”
I smiled at her and looked into the fire also. Mikiro looked up and then around at the camp. She was looking for something… that something was a demon. It slid down from the higher ledge and knocked me backwards. I rolled to the edge, seeing Mikiro get up and face the demon. She impaled it with her katana and ran towards me. I rolled a few inches more and fell off the cliff. I grabbed hold of the ledge and looked up at Mikiro running towards me. A demon archer was on the ledge above us and it shot an arrow down to us. It hit Mikiro in the back and she fell forward off the edge. I grabbed her hand and shouted trying to get Makira and Kazu to wake up.
I looked back at the archer who readied another bow. I shook my head… There’s no choice… I let go of the ledge and fell downwards with Mikiro unconscious below me.

::: Chapter 9 – Broken Yet United :::

I looked down at the ground coming closer. I looked back at Mikiro still unconscious beneath me. She landed hard and blood splattered on the ground. I landed in the river and sank towards the bottom. As I shot out of the water and gasped for breath, I saw a large streak of blood coming from where Mikiro had hit the ground to where she was now, rolling towards the river. I panicked and swam towards her. The river sped up and swept me towards her too quickly. She rolled off the ledge and onto me, pushing me underwater and knocking me out. All that blood… S-She has to be dead...
The next thing I knew, a hand was knocking on my head.
“Helloooooooo.” a boy’s voice said.
I opened my eyes slowly… the mountain was above us. It was morning and the river was flowing next to me. I saw Mikiro lying on the other side, her eyes still closed and her forehead wrapped in bandages, blood marks in the middle and on the right side. M-Mikiro…
“She’s ok Kairi, you don’t have to worry.” the boy said again.
I looked back at him… it was Bryth. I smiled and shot my arms around his neck, hugging him.
“It’s so good to see you Bry!” I said, hugging him tightly with tears in my eyes.
“Heh… it’s good to see you too Kairi. Arli went to get you both some water further up the river.”
I let go of him and he sat next to me. I smiled at him and then looked at Mikiro. In addition to the bandages on her head, she had her arm in a sling that was covered in blood. Her helmet was below her head and the front was covered in blood also. I looked at her worried and Bryth must have noticed.
“She’s ok Kairi… she’s sleeping now.” he said looking at Mikiro. “She’s lucky she’s alive. Arli and I found you both in the river and the water around her was full of blood…”
“I-I saw her hit the ground… the-there was blood everywhere… she can’t be alive.”
He nodded to me “But she is... You’re just lucky me and Arli were here.”
“Thanks for your help Bry…”
He smiled at me “No problem… but who is she?”
“She… she’s my sister, Mikiro.”
“Sister huh?” he said looking at Mikiro.
I walked over to Raiden, who was sleeping by a tree. I set my katanas down and patted him on the head and looked back at Bryth. I explained what had happened with Mikiro. After a few minutes Arliss walked up on the other side of the river. She had dried blood on parts of her face and arms.
“She’s been taking care of her all day…” Bryth said, quietly.
Arliss knelt next to Mikiro and placed a wet cloth on her forehead. I saw Mikiro’s head move slightly and Arliss smiled. Her mouth moved but I couldn’t hear what she was saying. I smiled at Mikiro and Arliss… Kazu… Makira… I hope you’re both all right. I thought as I looked into the sky. That night we all sat around the fire. Raiden was still asleep, next to Bryth. Arliss had moved Mikiro over to our side of the river so she could sleep near the fire. I leaned against the tree staring at Arliss and Bryth talking quietly amongst themselves, smiling as they did so. My eyes started to close and I opened them, trying to stay awake.
“Kairi you must be exhausted… try to get some sleep.” Arliss said, looking at me.
I nodded to her and my eyes slid closed.

The night was a quiet one… one I’ll never forget. I had a strange dream… I was lying against the tree where I had fallen asleep earlier. A man dressed in a soldier uniform squatted down in front of me; he was talking to me. I couldn’t hear him but I knew what he was saying was good. The next part of the dream I was floating through the trees on my back when suddenly the trees became stone walls lighted by many torches. My dream felt like I had slept an eternity when I heard a door creak open and I looked up. I was in a room of some sort. It was a beautifully decorated room full of expensive furniture… Where am I? I looked around and saw I was sitting in a giant bed covered in expensive looking sheets. The door creaked once more and I looked at a young girl, peaking around the corner. She was strange for a place like this… she had cat ears.
“Mistress Shiro?”
“No… I…” I started. If it IS a dream… might as well go along with it. “Who are you?”
“It’s me… Zarya… Don’t you remember Ma’am?” she said, looking at me sadly.
“Of course I do…” I said smiling.
She smiled at me sweetly “I’m so glad you’re back ma’am! We were all so worried about you.”
“First… please don’t call me ma’am… and in return… how about I call you Zar?” I said, smiling back at her.
“If you say so ma- Shiro.” she said, correcting herself.
I nodded to her and she came in. She looked about sixteen and was only a few inches shorter than me. She had silver hair and black cat ears along with a black tail. Her eyes were a deep red in color yet they looked so innocent. She wore a white kimono with a gray apron that had a white cross on it, and a white and black skirt. She sat next to me and we talked.
She said I was a princess named Shiro that had disappeared some time ago… Zarya is younger than me and yet, she served someone older than herself. I looked at her talking happily and thought of when this dream was over.
“Zar… if you don’t mind my asking, how did I get back here?”
“Oh… well… the guards thought you were kidnapped so they started searching around the castle a few months ago… the entire kingdom has been in a state of panic since your disappearance.”
She paused briefly and I nodded for her to continue.
“Well… last night, a few men coming from a neighboring city said they saw a few strange people near a river not too far away. So the guards went to check the man’s story and they found you by the river, sleeping against a tree with three other people.” she said, putting her finger to her head trying to remember more. “They said it was a boy and two girls. They both had red hair and one girl had white hair and a tail like me!”
A boy and two girls… both with red hair… and one with white…
“The girl with the tail, they said, was covered in blood in spots… but anyway the guards carried you back from the river to the castle.”
I looked away from Zarya uneasily… M-Mikiro… Memories of her fall and all the blood flashed into my head. Guards carried me from the river? Then… the forest and the castle… must be real… this can’t be a dream.
“I-I’m sorry, Ma’am… I didn’t mean to upset you…” she said, looking down embarrassed.
“Z-Zar… there’s something I just realized…” I said looking at her.
She looked up at me confused and I continued.
“I’m not Shiro… I thought this was a dream. The castle, the beds, you… all of it… my name’s Kairi."
She smiled slightly, ears lowered “I didn’t think you were… you’re much nicer than Shiro… you even gave me a nickname.”
She walked to the door and closed it.
“Although… if you’d like to stay, I won’t tell anyone.”
It would be rude to pass up an invitation like that… I thought. “Of course, I’ll stay.” I said, smiling at her as her face lightened up.

Life as a princess was a once in a lifetime experience… I couldn’t pass that up right? Besides, Bryth and the others know I can handle myself. Zarya showed me around the castle happily as I followed behind her. We decided to go to the kitchen to get something to eat. Then again… being a princess can get on your nerves. Everyone treats you with such high respect… it gets annoying after a while.
Zarya and I sat at a small table in the corner that was usually used by those in Zarya’s status… servants. As you may guess, that didn’t go over too well with the higher class people. On the contrary, the servants thought of this as some rare ordeal that would never happen again, and took advantage of it to sit near me.
“You, servants, get away from the princess! Do not bother her with such company.” some guards shouted.
“Hey leave them alone…” I said, looking at them both. “Let them do what they want.”
“B-but madam… you can’t sit with these people.”
“Oh I can’t, Why not? I’m not allowed to sit with Zar?” I said, Zarya blushing at her nickname being said aloud.
“Madam, no offense, but you are going mad… you, as a princess, cannot mingle with these people!”
I slammed my fists onto the table and stood up. I walked over to the men and grabbed his collar, pulling his face close to mine.
“I, as a princess, can do what I want…”
“No… you may not ma’am there are certain rules you must fol-“
“Mind your own business buddy.” I said, throwing him backwards and punching him in the side of the head making him fly towards the ground. “And leave us alone.”
I shot a look around me as I noticed the other guards in the room with shocked expressions on there faces. I stared down the biggest one in the corner to my left. He straightened up and went back to his position the rest of the guards following suit; leaving there unconscious comrade on the floor. I turned back around to the table to a host of cheers from all around. I gave a little smirk and sat back down next to Zarya.
“K-Kairi…” Zarya said, stunned.
It’s funny how names can sometimes play against you, especially when you’re trying to pretend to be someone else.
“Kairi?” asked a young boy “Zarya, why do you call Miss
Shiro, Kairi?”
Zarya shot her hands over her mouth and looked at me apologetically. I looked back at the boy and smiled.
“Can you keep a secret?”
“Of course I can!” he said, smiling, moving closer to me.
“My name’s not Shiro… it’s Kairi.”
He looked at me strangely and shook his head “But you look like Miss Shiro.”
I smiled and patted him on the head “I suppose I must. Don’t tell anyone ok?”
Zarya stood and told the others we had to go. They moaned and walked off slowly, waving to me as they left. I waved back and smiled as Zarya grabbed my other hand. She pulled me out of my chair and we left the kitchen to go to the room again. She got a bed ready and headed for the door. I looked at the other bed and then at Zarya.
“You have a place to sleep Zar?”
“Yes I do, good night Kairi.”
“Is it as nice as that bed there?” I asked, motioning at the bed.
She looked at me amazed and then smiled “No it’s not.”
“Well we can’t have that… why not sleep in that bed as long as I’m here.”
She smiled broadly and ran over to hug me. I laughed and told her to go to sleep. She nodded, wiping tears from her eyes, and headed into the other bed.

The next day we headed towards the far side of the castle. Zarya talked as a tour guide would, pointing out every little detail of the castle that would be even remotely interesting. We came to a large room and saw a boy sitting in the corner of it. Zarya looked at him respectfully as he stood up and walked over to us.
“So we finally meet again, Shiro.” he said, continuing towards us.
“It’s good to see you again…”
“Kuroda…” Zarya whispered.
“Kuroda.” I repeated as he stopped in front of us both.
He invited us to lunch and we walked down to the kitchen once more. This time we sat in the middle of the kitchen after Kuroda and I had a... 'discussion' shall we say. Strangely enough, Kuroda accepted fairly quickly…
“I saw your little escapade yesterday…” he said smiling at me.
“Oh you did huh?” I said looking at the table we had sat at.
Some kids from the servant’s part of the dining room yelled over to Zarya and she looked at them happily. Her ears perked up for a second and then she looked at me with them drooping a bit.
“Could I…” she started.
“Of course, Zar, you don’t have to ask.” I said smiling at her.
Her ears perked up again and she smiled at me, got up and headed over to her friends.
“You’re very nice to her, Shiro.” Kuroda said, nodding approvingly.
“She should be treated that way…” I said, looking at Zarya. “There’s no reason she should have to be unhappy.”
“Shiro, I can’t imagine what you’ve gone through these past months and you’ve only been back such a short while.”
He paused for a moment twirling his cup around in his hands.
“And…?” I said, sipping the tea in front of me.
“The elders of our Kingdoms are already speaking of the wedding.”
“Wedding!?” I asked nearly choking, fumbling with my cup.
“Yes, they say the sooner that the ceremony is completed the stronger our countries morale will be.” he said, eyeing me strangely.
He leaned forward, one hand still holding his cup, while the other grabbed both my hands.
“Our kingdoms faith has already been restored since your return. I know it’s much to put on you but I think that this would be good for our people.”
I stared at him, dumbfounded. How on earth did I get myself into this!?
“Shiro?” Kuroda asked concerned.
“Yes?” I asked in return.
“I’m sorry if I upset you. I just-“
“N-no it’s fine… really… I’m fine.”
“Let’s talk about something else then”. Kuroda said.
The clatter of plates filled the air as I looked away from Kuroda. Wedding…? I can’t get married to him… I just met him.
“Kuroda… please excuse me, but I seem to have forgotten things about you…” I said, looking back at him.
“Things… what things?” he said, confused.
I dunno…. maybe everything?
“Things like… where you’re from…”
He nodded and gave me a brief history about himself. Kuroda came from another city to the east named, Toyira. His home and Shiro’s home had decided to have them both wed so the cities would unite against demons that attack their cities every so often; the wedding had been put aside when Shiro had been kidnapped… and resumed when I came and pretended to be her.
Zarya came over after her friends had to leave and sat listening. A couple hours passed by and Zarya crossed her arms on the table and rested her head on them, sleepily. She yawned softly and I looked at her.
“I guess we’d better go… it was nice seeing you again Kuroda…” I said looking back at him smiling at me.
He bowed and headed out of the doors and to the other side of the castle. I grabbed Zarya’s hand and guided her sleepy body back to the room.

The next few weeks were relatively the same as the ones before. Boy do princesses get off well… never have to work. Zarya and I continued to explore the castle as she talked happily. I smiled at her as she walked, her tail moving from side to side. We passed many rooms and went up too many steps. We passed Kuroda and Zarya bowed to him. He smiled at me nodded and continued past us and down the stairs.
“So as I was… saying…” she stopped slowly. “Uh-oh…” she said and grabbed my hand as she rushed down the steps towards the room.
She dashed inside and quickly closed the door. She looked back at me, ruefully.
“I-I’m so sorry Kairi… I completely forgot.” she said slowly. “Kuroda… you’re marrying him today. I-I was supposed to tell you…”
“W-what?! I can’t marry someone!” I said, panicking.
“I-I have to get you ready… can you think of something quickly?”
The door opened and another woman came in.
“Zarya, quickly, the wedding is in a few minutes.”
“Of course, Madam, I’m getting her ready right now.” she replied, and rushed me in to change.
I looked at the beautiful, pure white dress hanging there. I shook my head… Ok think Kairi… there has to be a way out of this. I thought as Zarya stood next to me.
“Both of the city’s elders decided to make your wedding today... and they had asked me to tell you.” Zarya whispered, apologetically, as I changed.
I remembered what Kuroda had said and sighed disgustedly, “Marrying for protection… what a stupid reason.”
Zarya smiled at me as I said this and the woman’s voice came again.
“Please hurry Shiro; we cannot keep our guests waiting.”
I put on the dress quickly and stepped out into the room. I twirled around and Zarya looked at me admiringly.
“You look beautiful, Miss Shiro…” she said, staring at me.
“Really?” I said blushing, realizing she was serious.
“Zarya!” the woman snapped.
“Oh, I’m sorry madam.” she said, quickly, rushing me out of the room.
Zarya hurried me down the steps and into a chapel. I don’t know what drove me down the aisle… I think it was her compliment and visions of grandeur. I stopped thinking and looked around… I was at the altar. I looked at Kuroda standing next to me who smiled. Kairi… what are you going to do!? The ceremony continued on and the vows were given until it came to me. What if I do marry him… he seemed like a nice person… and I’d be a princess. I snapped out of my thoughts with my decision. I stood up straight and said my ‘I do.’ and that’s the end of it…

That night I sat in my room thinking… This has to have been the best choice… What else could I have said? These people are counting on me to keep them safe…
“Kairi… you actually married him…” Zarya said, regretfully. “I’m so sorry I forgot about the wedding.”
I smiled slightly at her and shook my head.
“It’s not your fault… and I’m the one who decided to marry him. It looks like I’ll be your princess from now on huh?”
“He thinks he married Shiro though…” she said, seeing the problem.
“We should get some sleep… think about this tomorrow.”
Zarya nodded and we both slept through the night. In the morning, the door opened and Zarya pretended to work. Kuroda came in and bowed to Zarya and me.
“Kuroda!” Zarya said smiling.
“Hello Zarya and Shiro… if that’s your name.” he said, smiling and then suspiciously as he said my fake name.
I looked at him, his gaze making me uneasy.
“Kuroda… you’re right… I’m not Shiro.” I said, looking at Zarya. “Zar knows… my name’s Kairi.”
Zarya looked away ashamed but Kuroda smiled.
“I didn’t think you were…” he said, sitting next to me and invited Zarya to sit on my other side.
“You, Kairi… have been much nicer than Shiro ever was. In the weeks since your arrival, everyone in this castle has been happy.” he said, looking at me.
“They have… everyone keeps talking about when you beat up that guard!” said Zarya happily.
He smiled at Zarya and continued, “If you want you can stay at the castle… then no one shall stop you. You’re my wife, Shiro or not. As long as the people think you’re Shiro the cities will be united.”
“Th-that’s true…” I said, looking into his bright eyes. “I think I’d like to stay…” I said, smiling at him. “If only just for those people counting on me…”
He nodded, happily, and stood up. Making his bows, he left the room. Zarya looked at me and smiled as I smiled back at her. I looked away and at the floor uneasily. Mikiro… what about her… I-I can’t do this to her. I thought, regretfully.
“Zar… I can’t stay. I promised… my friends I would help them… and I can’t leave my sister after being apart for so long.”
“B-but you just said…”
“I know… I would love to stay… but my friends need me more right now.”
I stood up slowly and looked down at Zarya, tears in her eyes. I bent down and wiped them off.
“Don’t cry… I’ll consider this place my home. I’ll come back every chance I get.” I said, smiling slightly. “Tell Kuroda I’m leaving… tell him exactly what I said… ok?”
She nodded and I headed out of the room with her next to me. I crossed the drawbridge and waved back at her and my new home.

::: Chapter 10 – Strategies and Schemes :::

Then came the hard part… explaining my marriage to Mikiro and the others. I came within hearing distance of the river and found a small sign… it read the name of the castle and city it guarded, Taiki. I cleared the underbrush from the front of the sign. There, I won’t forget you Zar…
I headed towards the river and the camp that held the others the few weeks back… hoping to see them there. Mikiro was sitting next to Arliss talking quietly.
“I-I’m back everyone.” I said, slowly.
“Kairi!” Mikiro shouted as she stood with tears in her eyes. “I was so worried about you.”
She gave me a large hug as Bryth and Arliss smiled at me. I smiled back and Arliss looked at my finger.
“Where’d you get that ring Kairi? It’s very nice.”
Mikiro let go of me and I looked at my finger. I forgot about my ring… ok Kairi, redeem your scheming skills. I rolled the ring around my finger and smiled.
“It is, isn’t it? I found it by a sign close by.”
She nodded and I sat next to Mikiro as we talked, changing the topic anytime the weeks of my absence came up. Well… that will have to work for now.

Marriage is a tough thing to keep a secret… especially when it was so sudden. At least my ring story fooled them for the time being. We left the next day and headed down the river towards a small town called Shikigami. Arliss and Bryth walked in front of Mikiro and I as Raiden perched himself on my head. Mikiro was talking about something as I stared at my ring, thinking. I wonder when I’ll get to see them again.
“Kairi, are you listening?” Mikiro’s voice asked.
My thoughts broke and I looked at her, Raiden moving with my head.
“Oh, I’m sorry Mikiro… I wasn’t.”
“Ah well it’s not important.”
“No tell me…”
“Nah…” she said looking away.
“Oh, come on…” I pestered.
It continued like this for a good while until we reached within sight of Shikigami. It was a very small town with only a few houses and an inn. We rested for a few days and continued off towards Kashirimoto, where we would break apart from Arliss and Bryth once more. The days turned into weeks and we finally reached Kashirimoto on the verge of our sixth month searching for Naraku.
Mikiro headed for the mountains as I turned to Arliss and Bryth.
“Thank you both so much… I don’t know how I could ever repay you.”
“It’s no problem Kairi… good luck to you both.” Arliss said, smiling.
“Yeah, no charge for this one… maybe later though.” Bryth said, grinning.
I hugged Bryth tightly and tears started in my eyes.
“Thank you so much Bry… you’re a great friend.” I said, tearfully.
I let go of him and he smiled at me as he turned. They waved as I waved back to them and they continued away into the distance.

Mikiro and I traveled up the mountain once more and came upon the spot we had fallen off at. There was blood stained into the rocks and a few decaying bodies of demons. Makira… Kazu… I hope you’re ok. Mikiro stopped and looked back at me, staring at the blood.
“I’m sure they’re fine Kairi, the best thing we can do is to keep going.”
“Y-you’re right.” I said, tearing my gaze away from the blood and at her.
She nodded and continued down the path as I followed behind. The trail was much longer than I had expected; on the tenth day we finally caught sight of our destination, Kiriyama. We reached its gates on the morning of the eleventh day since our split with Arliss and Bryth and headed towards the inn. It was freezing in that city… but what do you expect from a city so far to the north?
We stayed at the inn for a few days, looking for anyone that may have seen Makira or Kazu. We came back one foggy night, empty-handed once again, and headed for bed. I stopped as Mikiro did, both of us listening for something. She shot out of the inn and took a left as I followed and went right. The village was being attacked by demons.
I ran towards two of them as I crossed my arms, katanas facing outwards, and slit the sides of them both as I continued through. A large snake demon faced me and I ran towards it. As I neared it and jumped in the air, a sword skewered the demon and headed straight for me. I tilted backwards and the sword flew over my head grazing my cheek in the process. I landed on my back and sat up as the demon’s blood rained down on me. What the hell? I thought, rolling sideways as the demons body fell to the ground. I ended my roll in a crouch facing the direction the sword had come from.
A person shot at me and knocked me back onto my back, pinning me to the ground, and held a sword to my throat. We both breathed heavily and a voice came.
“Why’d you attack this village?!” a girl’s voice shouted.
“M-makria?” I said, trying to see through the fog.
The voice gasped slightly and they let me up. I picked up my katanas and placed them on my back, starring at them. I heard them sniff and her voice came again.
“K-Kairi…” she said, crying.
I smiled at her as she came forward and hugged me, tears falling from her eyes onto my shoulder.
“Y-you’re really alive… I-I can’t believe it…” she sobbed. “Th-the demons said you fell o-off the cliff.”
“Makria, I’m so glad you’re ok.” I started, tears filing my eyes.
I let go of her and backed away wiping my eyes.
“Where’s Kazu… is she ok?”
“She’s fine… she went ahead.”
I could hear footsteps behind me and I spun around, katanas out, and stood next to Makira. A person carried another on their shoulders and came towards us. Mikiro stepped through the fog supporting Kazu, whose side was bleeding profusely. I stared at Kazu who smiled at me, despite her injury. I walked over to her slowly and we carried her back to the inn.

We bandaged Kazu and stayed at the inn a few weeks. In the first week we spent our time in the inn, looking over Kazu and sharing our stories since our split. Makira and Kazu had woken up soon after our fall and questioned the demons that had attacked. I’m told they said we were dead and so Kazu and Makira killed them all. They headed towards Kiriyama to mourn our ‘death’ and to think of what they could do as a revenge… or, should I say, looking for any information they could to help them with this revenge.
The two weeks after Kazu was able to walk and we decided to look for anything we could about Naraku and continue our journey. Information collecting isn’t easy… especially in such a small town.
On the third week we finally got the information we needed. It wasn’t exactly what we were looking for but it helped. We were referred to a large town further east called Ishiru. This town was a basic crossroads for the north and a good many travelers passed through there each day.
We got our supplies and headed towards the town. It took us roughly seven days to get there and we got there on the night of the seventh day. We headed towards the inn and sat down to eat. I hit my ring off the side off the table making a small cracking sound. Kazu looked at it questioningly.
“Nice ring Kairi… where’d you get it?”
“I found it by a sign a while ago…”
I stared down at this ring and smiled slightly. Kuroda… Zar… It’s been a couple months, hasn’t it?
“If you say so…” she concluded and Makira smiled.
I headed in to make dinner and came back a few hours later. We ate as we talked and then headed to bed.

The next morning we headed outside of the inn and towards the marketplace. I folded my hands behind my head as we walked. I slowed down a bit, to enjoy the day and the others went further ahead. I caught sight of a girl with black ears in the corner of my eye. I looked down the alleyway and my arms lowered from my head.
The girl stood staring at me, disbelievingly. A smile started on my face… it was Zarya. Her mouth moved as she turned around and I came towards her. Kuroda turned and looked at me, smiling. Part of me wanted to see him so much… but the other thought about what the others would say. I continued walking towards them and stopped when I got close.
“Kairi, it’s so good to see you!” Zarya shouted, running forward and hugging me. “It’s been so long.”
I smiled down at her and then looked at Kuroda “What’re you both doing out here?”
Footsteps echoed behind us and my ears shot up.
“Kuroda, I haven’t told my friends I’m married, please don’t tell them.” I said, looking at him pleadingly.
“As you wish…” he said, as the others stopped behind me.
“What’re you doing Kairi?” Mikiro asked, confused.
“I just met some old friends of mine.” I said smoothly, looking at Kuroda and Zarya. “I was just asking why they were here.”
After the introductions, Kuroda explained why he and Zarya were in Ishiru.
“As you know Kairi, my wife disappeared from our kingdom. So the elders told me I had to find her and bring her back; they only let me bring one person along.” he said, looking at Zarya who smiled warmly back at him.
He looked at me and smiled.
“We’ve been searching for two months and, at the moment, it seems we’re on the right track.”
“Well…” I started, planning my scheme. “How about you come with us Kuroda? We’d be glad to help you look for her.”
I turned around and looked at the others.
“That is if you guys don’t mind.” I finished.
“Of course not, you’re welcome to come along if you want.” Makira said, smiling.
Kuroda and Zarya bowed “That’s very kind of you.” Kuroda said.
Mikiro smiled and they walked back and split ways to look for information, leaving me with Kuroda and Zarya. I looked back at them and smiled
“So…” I started looking into Kuroda’s eyes. “Let’s get you guys to the inn.” I said, turning my gaze to Zarya as she smiled.

::: Chapter 11 – Nine Lives Lived :::

Even though Mikiro, Kazu and Makira bought our little story, it wasn’t going to be easy to maintain that. A man in a light brown robe walked in.
My ear twitched and I looked at him suspiciously “What do you want?”
“I have been sent to show you the town’s hospitality ma’am. I will cook dinner for you all.”
I stared at him, unsure “Ok… go ahead.”
He walked in and made dinner for us. I looked over at Kuroda and Zarya eating and smiled. I turned around and sat looking at the door. Even though we were married, it wasn’t like we loved each other. I looked over my shoulder at Kuroda who was smiling and talking to Zarya as she listened intently. Although… what if we do? I thought. I shook my head and looked back at the door I can’t… but I’ve felt like I’ve known them both for so long. So what if it’s possible?
“You should eat, ma’am…” the man said. “You need to stay healthy.”
I turned around and ate what he had made as I talked with Zarya and Kuroda. I finished my dinner and looked back at the door and Zarya came to sit next to me and we talked about what we had done the two months we were apart. The day continued on and the others had not come back when it became night. Zarya yawned and leaned her head on my shoulder as she tried to tell me more. Her talking ceased and I looked at her sleeping on my shoulder. My ears sagged and my eyes started to slide closed. My eyes blurred and I leaned my head on Zarya’s and fell asleep.
I had what I thought was a dream. A demon dragged me across the ground as my eyes slowly opened. My vision was still blurred and I couldn’t move my body. Zarya was still grabbing my arm, dragging behind me like extra baggage. A blurred gate came into view and my vision blacked out… I came to again and saw a barred room coming into view. I was knocked back into my senses as I smashed into the wall and blood trickled down my mouth. I flipped off my back and looked outside in surprise. A demon with large green eyes looked at me slyly.
“Have a nice stay, little girls, for it will not be long when we solve this mystery.” he said, hissing his Ss.
I swore at him, my speech slurred slightly, as he walked away laughing. I wiped the blood from my mouth and a hand hit my leg. I looked down confused and Zarya was lying there, still asleep. I tapped her on the shoulder and her eyes opened slowly.
“Kairi?” she asked sleepily.
“Yeah, it’s me Zar, you have to wake up.”
“It’s still dark out… can’t I sleep some more?” she said, yawning and closing her eyes again.
I looked at the bars and said “Not if you want to live.”
She sat up slowly rubbing her eyes “What do you mean?”
I nodded to the bars and she looked at them confused. She looked at me worried. Her eyes asked it all, how’d we get here and how do we get out? I smiled to her and stood up helping her do the same.
I thought of the last time I was in this situation. No Kazu this time… I thought, smiling fearfully. Zarya looked at me frightened and the guard came back. My ears sagged downwards and I looked into the trees nearby. A small demon archer sat aiming an arrow in our direction. I looked back at Zarya and thought I can’t do anything… they’ll kill Zar. The guard smiled sinisterly and opened the gate… He walked in and grabbed my arms, twisting them behind my back and tying them. No sword… no one knows we’re here. He went to Zarya next and did the same. He pushed us out the door and we continued into the castle. He led us into a large circular room with nothing but chains on the walls. It smelt of blood… not just any blood. It was the blood of humans… I despised that smell.
The guard threw us into the wall and I braced myself as I hit it… Zarya wasn’t as graceful and she slammed into it head first. Next the guard chained us to the wall and headed for a door on the far right of the room. I looked at Zarya who stared back, frightened. A young girl staggered out of the door. Zarya gasped and looked at her.
“M-mira…?” she whispered quietly.
The guard returned carrying a small sword that was tinted red. He lifted Mira by her neck and looked at me.
“So, what is your name girl?” he said, to me.
“Kairi.” I said defiantly.
“Well Kairi, it seems the people of Taiki believe you to be their long-lost Mistress Shiro.” he said, staring at Mira. “That is not best in our view.”
“Do I care…?” I snapped back.
“You will help us to rule your ‘kingdom’.”
“Like hell I will!” I shouted at him.
He smiled and set Mira on her feet. He shot the sword through her stomach. Zarya grimaced and looked away, tears in her closed eyes. I looked at him in shock as he pulled the sword from Mira’s stomach. Her body collapsed to its knees and then, face-first, to the floor. The guard came over to me and smiled, grabbing my face.
“So girl, you will help us…”
I spit in his face and whispered angrily “You heartless bastard… I’ll never help you!”

He threw my face to the side and walked over to Zarya. He held the sword to her leg and looked back at me.
“We shall make you help us then.” he said slicing Zarya’s left leg.
She shouted tearfully and the guard sliced her other leg. She yelled out again as tears fell to the floor.
“Damn you stop it!” I shouted, tears forming in my eyes.
He slit Zarya’s side and her blood fell to the ground mixing with her tears.
“We will let you think…. Miss Kairi.”
He unchained Zarya and she slid to the ground where a small pool of blood had formed. He bound my hands and unchained me also. He forced me outside dragging Zarya behind him. He threw us back into the cell, after undoing our bonds, and locked the door as he left. I crawled over to Zarya who sat against the wall.
“Zar… I-I’m so sorry.” I said, tears in my eyes.
She smiled at me slightly and coughed up some blood. I shook my head, tears flying from them.
“It’s all my fault…” I said looking away.
There was no response… I looked back at Zarya, her eyes closed. A loud gong sounded and footsteps could be heard all around. The bars clanked open and the guard’s voice shouted at me.
“Get up wench!” he shouted walking towards me.
I looked at him maliciously and stood. I rammed the guard to the ground and stabbed his sword through his throat. I continued to puncture his lifeless body as I cursed and swore. Blood splattered onto my face and clothes and leaked onto the floor, mixing with Zarya’s blood and my tears. The stabbing slowed and I stood. I staggered out of the cell and into the forest stumbling aimlessly until I reached Ishiru. A large crowd had formed in the town and they stared in my direction. I pushed my way through the crowd as they stared from where I came. I turned and looked up at the outpost; a cloud of smoke had started forming. I looked away, tears still coming and saw Kuroda coming out of the inn. He looked at me confused and I shot into his arms.
“Kuroda… they k-killed her… they killed Zar.” I sobbed incomprehensibly, leaving blood on him as I let go. I wiped my eyes, smearing the blood on my face.
“I-I couldn’t help her… a-and the guard… I couldn’t stop myself…” I said, looking at my shaking hands.
“Kairi… calm down and tell me what happened…” he said softly.
I shot into his arms again and continued to hug him, not caring how Mikiro would react. He swayed me back and forth trying to calm me down. He laid his head on mine and whispered to me softly.
“It’s ok Kairi… you’re ok…” he started. “Calm down and tell me what happened.”
A girl in green next to us swore and ran through us, knocking us apart. She headed through the crowd and towards the outpost. I stared blankly and Kuroda walked over to me. I snapped back into reality and looked at him.
“Kuroda… I got you all bloody.” I said looking at his blood-stained shirt sadly.
“Don’t worry about that… you ok?”
I shook my head “I-I guess… b-but Zar…” I started as the tears came again.
Kuroda pulled me into him and whispered to me trying to calm me down. He kissed my forehead and said “It’s ok Kairi…”
He stopped and I looked up at him.
“Kairi… we can get through this… I love you and I’ll try to help as much as I can… just tell me slowly what happened to Zar.”
I stared at him shocked… He loves me…? I shook my head and explained what happened in the outpost.
“You did what you could Kairi… you tried and that was very brave of you…” he tried, hoping to get the words out right.
My eyes blurred suddenly and I staggered towards him. I fell into his arms and blacked out.

::: Chapter 12 – {Title} :::