Monday, August 15, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 13*

As the mist closes behind the departing group, Kiri turns to Sango. He looks like he is about to speak, but then he does not. She says, “So Miroku was right about you. You really are a…a…” Kiri says, “Yes, I am. I knew he suspected, but I did not think he would come to you this quickly.” Sango says, “Then I suppose he was also right about you keeping me here; forever.” Kiri says, “He was not. You and your friends are free to move on as soon as you are ready. We will tell them now. I hope you will forgive my taking the long way back; we have much to discuss.” Making sure that he is being followed, Kiri heads toward the edge of the mist. Sango takes a position to his right and slightly behind him. After a few minutes of silence, she says, “M’lord…” Stopping to face her, Kiri says, “Don’t, please.” Sango hesitates; he says, “Kiri, I’m Kiri; just like I was before.” Sango says, “But you…you’re a…you didn’t tell me.” Kiri says, “You didn’t ask; and besides, it’s not a great way to start a conversation.” Sango nods; she says, “Miroku thought you wanted me to stay with you.” Kiri smiles, “I would never ask that of you; the world awaits you. But Sango, should you ever grow weary of that world; nothing would bring me more joy than if you came to desire being here, with me.” She says, “But I’m just a human, how could you…how could we…what could there be between us?” He says, “What we are does not matter; who we are does. You are you, and that is more than enough for me.” She says, “You talk of who we are; but we hardly know each other.” Kiri seems sad and amused; he says, “No Sango, you hardly know me; I know you very well. Sango I…it’s hard to find words which will make sense to you. I can see your soul. I see it and it is more beautiful than your near perfect form.” As she has often enough these past few days, Sango turns bright red. “I know you.” he says. “All I ask is that you take the time to get to know me as well. Your journey must continue; but at some point I ask that you return; to lose a few days in the mist. We both know you feel something; promise me that you will explore this feeling when the time is right.” After a pause, Sango nods. The two continue in silence. Eventually, she asks, “So when did you meet Kirara?” He says, “It was more than 200 years ago. She was traveling with a priestess.” Sango nods, having missed the last bit. She says, “I didn’t realize she was that old.” Kiri says, “Demons have long lives; she still has many adventures left before her.” They go further; the god turns to the slayer, “Sango, I want you to understand something; you are may be unsure of what you feel, but I love you. Here…” he says, taking her hand. He pushes it against his chest, “Do you feel my heart?” When she nods, he continues, “Now it beats for you.” With that, he turns from her and the mist parts revealing the shrine.
Comments (6) | Permalink

Sunday, August 14, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 12*

Sango runs, filled with grief and anger and disbelieve. The mist surrounds her, and she tries to break lose. Suddenly, the mist before her parts and she brings herself to a halt. Ten steps ahead of her is a cliff; if the mist had not shifted, she would never have seen it and she would have flung herself off. Looking at the grey wall beside her, Sango hesitantly raises a hand. When she touches the mist, the feeling is nearly electric. It feels warm and a gentle tingling travels up her arm. “Take me to him.” she says. A passage opens in the mist. With few choices, she follows it. After a short journey downhill, the tunnel opens into a huge clearing in the mist. As Sango steps into this clearing, she immediately feels the intrusion of a familiar demonic aura. Standing on one side of the clearing is Kiri; opposite him is Sesshomaru and his entourage. Kiri is saying, “…human may pass, but the rest of you may not. Speaking of which, child, are you with these others by choice? If you are a prisoner, I can protect you.” Rin says, “Who, me? Lord Sesshomaru is my master. Of course I choose to be with him.” Kiri says, “In that case I advise you all to turn back; now.” Sesshomaru says, “I am not in the habit of taking orders from humans. The scent I track is here; that mortal,” he indicates Sango, “Only confirms my sense of smell. As for your interference; such impudence, I punish with death.” As Sesshomaru draws the Tokigin, Kiri says, “Your swords will not work here, demon.” Returning it to his belt, Sesshomaru says, “Then you will die beneath my claws.” Moving faster than Sango can follow, Sesshomaru pounces on Kiri, his poison claws extended in a greeting of death. Kiri, moving faster still, grabs the demon’s wrist, bending his arm back; and delivers a swift hard upward thrust to his solarplex. Sesshomaru goes flying. Regaining his composure in mid-air, he lands on his feet. Turning to his opponent, he says, “What are you? I am Sesshomaru; a dog demon of noble linage. Name yourself and your clan.” Kiri says, “I am the guardian of this place; all you need know is that I guard it now,” he looks to Sango, “and always.” Feeling insulted that his challenge was not met; Sesshomaru’s demon blood boils over, turning his eyes red. Suddenly, his second sword pulses. Pausing, Sesshomaru regains his composure. He says, “It seems that my heirloom believes that it can serve me.” Kiri says, “That sword will not function either; not that it would help you if it did.” Sesshomaru says, “Let us see.” He pulls the Tenseiga from its sheath. Jaken says, “Look here! The sword glows. M’lord, have you seen this before?” Sesshomaru says, “Once. I was lucky to escape that encounter with my life.” He turns to Kiri, “My apologies; my business can be concluded with a few words with that mortal; I will not harm her.” Kiri nods and Sesshomaru turns to Sango, “Does my brother still live?” Sango says, “Inuyasha? Yes, he’s alive. What made you think he was dead?” The demon says, “The words of one of Naraku’s incarnations.” As he turns to leave, Sango calls, “Wait, Sesshomaru; were you actually worried about Inuyasha?” Sesshomaru says, “Don’t be absurd, if he were dead than the Tetsusaiga would be undisputedly mine. Jaken, Rin, we’re leaving.” With that, he turns and heads back the way he came.
Comments (8) | Permalink

Saturday, August 13, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 11*

Sango is sitting by herself in the shrine; humming and cleaning her weapons. She and Kiri had returned from their climb several hours ago. About ten minutes earlier, he had left the shrine, saying that he had something to attend to. Miroku approaches Sango. She seems distracted and doesn’t notice him. He sits down and waits; in time, she looks up. “Miroku,” she says, “Did you want something?” He says, “I noticed that Kiri has left us; I thought this might be a good time to share what I have learn of this mountain.” Turning back to her blade, Sango nods, indicating that she is listening. Miroku begins, “The mist on this mountain has been here continuously since before the construction of this temple. In fact, the shrine was built to honor the force behind the mist. As we have seen, demonic magic will not function within the mist; also, it is not possible to fly over the mist. Anyone who enters the mist will become instantly lost and, without help, will most likely die in the mist. The texts I have found say that, with very few exceptions, no demons can use this pass; the same is true of human armies. The magic behind the mist is truly incredible; almost unfathomable. Do you have any idea what could wield such might?” Sango says, “Presumably that is what you are going to tell me.” Miroku says, “In fact, I am. The scrolls confirm what I already suspected. The mist is created by the spirit of the mountains themselves. The life force or Kami of this place protects it.” Sango says, “That means that this is a sacred mountain.” Miroku says, “Indeed; and tremendously so. But to put that aside for a moment, the texts talk of a guardian who navigates through the mist.” Sango says, “Kiri.” Miroku says, “Yes, but there is more. This guardian is not what he appears to be. He seems to be a human with green-grey eyes; however, he is in fact the embodiment of the spirit of this place, the avatar of the mountains’ Kami, in short, a god.” Sango has dropped the Hiraikotsu and is now focused solely on the monk. She says, “You don’t mean…” Miroku says, “…Kiri is the Kami of Kiri-Yama.” Sango says, “No, that can’t be…If he were a god, why would he be wasting time with us?” Miroku says, accusingly, “He doesn’t seem to be wasting any time at all.” Sango blushes and says, “No, that can’t be.” Miroku says, “There is more.” Waiting for Sango to acknowledge, he continues, “The rest is shear conjecture, and none of it is specific to this place. The scrolls make no reference to the guardian ever seeking companionship; but there are legends from elsewhere which are similar. I have drawn these conclusions as a worst case scenario based on them. Kiri has chosen you; he has selected you to be his companion. When a god or goddess makes such a choice, they are not easily dissuaded. He cannot leave this place; which means that you would have to remain here for the rest of your life. More than likely, he would then trap your spirit here for all time. We cannot leave; he may offer our freedom if you accept him. Assuming you say no, we would all be stuck here. Of course, Inuyasha would refuse to accept this and would either be killed or banished into the mist. He seems to like Kirara, and Shippo is only a child; but Kiri might dislike having a full grown demoness on his mountain for an extended stay. You must consider the impact on Kohaku of something happening to Kagura.” “Stop it!” Sango says. “Kagome and I have sacred powers which might be somewhat effective against him and he certainly doesn’t like me. Kohaku would be enough to control you wit…” Sango punches him, square on the jaw. He says, “Sango, you have to consider the possibil…” She hits him again, harder; only this time she doesn’t stop. She keeps hitting him until his body goes limp as he loses consciousness. Her weapons forgotten, his blood on her fist; she runs blindly out of the shrine and into the mist.
Comments (7) | Permalink

Friday, August 12, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 10*

Sango and Kiri have been climbing for some time now. The have covered several hundred meters laterally and are making good time. Sango calls, “Kiri, you said that there was something you wanted me to see. What is it?” Kiri, who is leading, responds, “I’m going to show you my islands.” Puzzled, Sango asks, “Do you mean we’ll be able to see the ocean?” Chuckling, he tells her, it will be better if you wait and see. Eventually, the climb becomes completely vertical and Sango is forced to focus all of her attention on the rockface. It is during this stretch that they clear the mist and emerge into the open sky. Kiri connected them together with a strong rope before beginning the climb, and he continues with the confidence of one who has done this many times before. When at last he reaches a deep ledge, he climbs onto it and reaches down to help Sango up. Tired, Sango reclines against the cliff and looks to Kiri. He passes her a bamboo tube filled with water which he had carried at his waist. After drinking, Sango looks at him expectantly. “Look.” he says, gesturing outward. Sango takes a moment to take in her surroundings and is awestruck. Stretched out before her are the pass and the mountains beyond. A sea of fog blankets the rocks. However, the highest peaks thrust out above; islands in the mist. Sango takes a long minute, stunned by the shear natural beauty. Finally, she says, “Wow…” Kiri says, “I thought you’d like it. These are my islands; nobody sees them but me.” She continues to stare, and Kiri lets her be for many minutes. Finally, he says, “The climb down is almost as hard as the climb up. We should go.” Kiri moves toward the edge, but Sango grabs his wrist. “Just a few minutes more.” she says. Smiling, he nods.
Comments (7) | Permalink

Thursday, August 11, 2005

   Attention
Yesterday my friend Mishotarup killed Naraku by hitting him over the head with a frying pan, several times. As such, he will no longer appear in my fanfic.

I’m kidding about the not appearing bit. He’ll be back.
Comments (7) | Permalink

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 7*

Much of the group is still gathered in the central chamber of the shrine. After they returned, both Sango and their enigmatic host left shortly. Kiri said that he had duties to attend to; and Sango asked her brother to walk with her. Having witnessed the last few days, the others prepared themselves for the inevitable fight between the two; however when they came together at the door, Sango gently put her arm around her brother’s shoulder and guided him out of the room. Kagome says, “It looks like Sango’s finally calmed down.” Inuyasha says, “’bout time! Those two were get’in on my nerves.” Miroku says with irritation, “No doubt, we have Kiri to thank for this.” Kagura says, “Good; if he was able to help her, I’m happy for her.” The monk says, “Of course, but I have a few questions about this “guardian.”” Inuyasha asks, “Don’t you think you’re lookin for somethin that’s wrong?” Ignoring the question, Miroku says, “Seeing that we are stuck here until our “host” sees fit to guide us forward or back; I intend to see what can be learned about this shrine.”
Comments (7) | Permalink

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 8*

Hours have passed and the shrine is now bathed in mist diffused moonlight. Everyone is asleep…almost everyone. Kirara steps out into the fog. As she approaches the wall of mist surrounding the shrine, a small tunnel opens allowing her passage. Blindly trusting, she follows this path until it opens into a large mist-room. Kiri enters the clearing and sits by the flame-cat. He reaches out and begins stroking her. “How long has it been?” he asks. “Really? Well, you still know how to pick them. It’s an odd bunch; but I can see how you would like them. Especially her.” Kirara looks up, meeting his eyes. He says, “I know. I don’t intend to hurt her though.” Kirara gives another glance. “Yes, I can tell that he doesn’t like me. Look, if you tell me to stop, I won’t come any closer; but I think it’s what she and I would both like.” She looks away in thought. Finally, she looks back toward him and even seems to nod. “Thank you.” he says. “So, tell me of your journeys.”
Comments (7) | Permalink

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 9*

The next day, Sango announces, “Kiri has asked me to come with him; he’s going climbing.” Inuyasha asks, “If it’s safe to climb, how come it ain’t safe to go?” Sango says, “The accent begins right behind the shrine. From there, it’s straight up till we clear the mist. To go on would mean traversing dangerous ledges and ravines. He assures me this is safe, and that isn’t.” Miroku says, “There are other dangers than merely falling.” “Here he goes again!” Inuyasha says. “Monk, if he tries actin like you do, Sango can give’im one a your slaps. Besides, Kirara’ll be there.” Sango, who is in her battle gear, looks to her partner. Kirara is curled up by the fire; Sango calls, “Kirara, come on.” Kirara doesn’t move. Sango repeats her call; the cat sits up and begins grooming herself. Sango walks to her and kneels. Kirara looks up at Sango with a manner which Sango has come to think of as a smile. Kohaku says, “I think she wants you to go with out her.” Sango stands up, somewhat embarrassed. Miroku says, “You could take Shippo.” The foxling says, “Leave me out’a this.” Taking a deep breath, Miroku says, “Sango, if it makes you more comfortable, I will accompany you.” Blushing, Sango says, “You don’t have to do that; but thank you.” The monk says, “No really, it’s no imposition.” Inuyasha jumps to his feet, crosses the room, and *thumps* Miroku on the head. Sango says, “Um…we’re going. I’m leaving the Hiraikotsu here; but I’m taking my sword; just in case.”
Comments (7) | Permalink

Wednesday, August 10, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 6*

Kiri leads Sango back to a large empty room with thick tatami mats. He says, “This is a room I get to use far too rarely.” Sango asks, “What is it for?” “Combat.” Kiri says. He continues, “Not battle; but combat none the less. You are a fighter Sango; I can tell. Spar with me. There is room behind you in which you can change into your fighting clothes.” She asks, “How do you know that I have fighting clothes?” He says, “Because you could not fight in what you wear now.” Accepting this, Sango enters the changing room. It is small and dark and separated from the main room by a paper curtain. The light in the main room cast shadows on the curtain showing that the man stays far away while she is changing. Leaving the pink armor and wearing only the black singlet; Sango emerges. Kiri takes a position a couple of meters from her and bows. Surprised at his formality, Sango returns the gesture. Both fighters slip into combat stances. Seeing that he intends to allow her the first attack, Sango strikes out with two left jabs and a right hook. Matching her strength, Kiri blocks the slow, testing blows and responds with an open palmed jab. Sango meet his attack and responds; harder and faster. Gradually each of them begins to work up to their full strength and speed. Not blocking a combination attack to exploit an opening left at its completion, Kiri says, “You fight well Sango. Your form shows many years of practice; but you also have exceptional talent which no amount of practice will replace.” Feinting back and then giving the first kick of the fight, Sango says, “You aren’t bad either.” Accepting that kicks have now become acceptable, Kiri takes full advantage of his new weapons; he says, “It has been to long since I faced a worthy opponent out of battle. It is the same for you.” Sango nods, increasing the strength she puts behind each attack. Finally confident that she will not hurt him, Sango removes all restraints between herself and her potential. Facing this new wave of energy, Kiri allows himself to be pushed back, taking several hits in the process. He says, “Your fists speak of anger.” Easing up for a moment, Sango says, “We’re in battle.” The two continue to talk in the moments in-between frantic attacks. He says, “Your anger…is directed at your brother.” She asks, “How do you know?” Kiri says, “Your eyes…when you look at him…they tell me.” Sango says, “He went after an enemy…by himself…to kill him.” Kiri says, “There is more.” Sango says, “After getting him back…he just runs off on his own.” He says, “You feel that…he does not appreciate you…what you sacrificed?” “No…” she says, “…it’s not that.” Kiri says, “Then you feel…that he does not value…himself.” Sango, amazed to hear her days of emotional torment surmised and summarized so exquisitely by a virtual stranger, lowers her guard. Kiri, still fighting at full force, lands a powerful blow to her chest sending her flying. He hurries to her, “Forgive me Sango! I took advantage of your emotions; that point was not disserved.” He extends his hand to help her to her feet. Taking his hand, Sango yanks his arm sending him head over heels; he lands on his back. Moving with lightning speed, Sango comes to kneel beside him. Making a V with her thumb and index finger, she slams her hand down onto his throat; stopping short of actually cutting off his air. She says, “I don’t think you can afford to not take advantage of any weakness I show!” Laughing, Kiri says, “An excellent point; the match is yours.” Smiling at the slight pun, Sango releases him and sits back. She opens the first clasp on her suit, reveling nothing and making it easier to breathe. “How did you know that?” she asks. He says, sitting up, “Like I said, that much was in your eyes. He has been through an ordeal. This ordeal has made him more precious in your eyes; but it has destroyed his sense of self-worth. That, I saw in his eyes; a hollow stare with which he looks at you. I could tell you needed to talk, and you could only do that in the passion of battle. Does it not feel better to have that off your chest?” Sango says, “Yes, thank you.” He says, “There is no need to thank me; I enjoyed this fight like few others. Now, we should rejoin your friends.” Sango rises and begins to head back. Kiri calls, “Aren’t you forgetting something?” As Sango turns a puzzled stare toward him, he gazes briefly down and then back up. Looking down herself, Sango realizes that she is wearing nothing but her sweat soaked black singlet. Blushing, she returns to the changing booth.
Comments (7) | Permalink

Tuesday, August 9, 2005

Lazarus Heart: Found in the mist
*episode 4*

Kiri guides Sango through the mist. He says, “There are demons here.” She tells him, “Yes, some of my friends are demons; they are not evil.” Kiri tells her, “I wish I could merely accept your word; but that cannot be enough. Here is one now.” As he speaks, a breeze shifts the mist and Inuyasha is revealed. “Sango!” he calls. Seeing that she is not alone, he draws his sword. The mist swirls around the Tetsusaiga, but it does not transform. Kiri says, “Your sword will not work here, half-demon. The mist will not allow it to harm anyone.” Sheathing his sword, Inuyasha shouts, “Get your hands off’a her!” Sango says, “It’s alright Inuyasha; he saved me.” Taking a slightly less defensive stance, he humphs his acknowledgment. Kiri looks to his right and Kagura stumbles into the ever expanding clearing around the three. She says, “Sango, Inuyasha, are you alright? There is something about this mist; none of my wind powers work here. Who is this?” Before Sango can answer, Miroku stumbles upon them. Sango says, “This is Miroku; he’s not a demon.” Kiri says, “I can see that; still, the mist is uncomfortable around him. Finally,” he says, gesturing. Kirara and Shippo join the others; Kirara is in her little form. She looks at Kiri questioningly. Then she walks over and begins rubbing against his leg. He says, “Hello again. It’s been quite q long time.” He lowers to one knee and begins to scratch behind her ears. He asks, “These others, they are your companions, friends, do you trust them?” She looks up into his grey eyes. He says, “Good enough for me.” Standing, he continues, “You are all welcome on these mountains and free to pass.” Sango says, “Umm…Kiri, there were others; my brother and a friend of mine...” He says, “The humans, yes. There was never any question of weather or not they might pass; or you for that matter. I only came to you first because you needed me. Here they are.” Separately, Kagome and Kohaku join the group. Addressing them all, Kiri says, “Come, you are welcome in my home until it is safe for you to move on.” With that, he turns and walks toward a wall of fog. At his approach, the fog recedes and the group follows him.
Comments (6) | Permalink