By The Grace of the Gods

Chapter Two

Kagome had stayed silent as the gods had weaved a background story for the man Kagome now knew as Ryoma. Then the three had sent him on his way, promising Kagome that she would follow shortly.

Now, she found herself sitting before the three gods, waiting for them to elaborate on her new life. The anticipation weighed on her like a stone, and her heart raced in her chest.

"We will be doing things a little differently for you," Lulutia began, her voice gentle as she observed Kagome with a mixture of sympathy and understanding.

"You will only be aged down to twelve, a good age to start over in this world. " Gain added, his long white beard swaying as he spoke. "This will give you a chance to experience the world anew and hopefully begin the healing process."

Kagome nodded, understanding their reasoning. She had carried the weight of her previous life for far too long, and this fresh start offered her a glimmer of hope. However, she couldn't help but feel a hint of anxiety about being a child again, navigating a world of unknowns.

Kufo, the third god, spoke softly, his eyes filled with compassion. "You have endured so much suffering. We want you to find happiness in this world, to heal, and to discover a life beyond the Shikon no Tama. This world is brimming with magic, and you won't have to hide your abilities here as you did in your world."

Kagome's curiosity got the better of her. "What is this world like?" she inquired, her voice carrying a mix of trepidation and excitement.

Gain leaned forward, his gaze thoughtful. "It's a realm teeming with magic, mystical creatures, and endless adventures," he explained. "There are kingdoms ruled by powerful monarchs, guilds of magic users, and a diverse array of races living in harmony. It's a place where you can forge your own path, form bonds with new friends, and create a life unburdened by the past."

Kagome's eyes widened with intrigue. The description of this world sounded enchanting and vastly different from the feudal era of Japan she had known. It held the promise of endless possibilities and a chance to redefine herself.

Kufo chimed in, "Before we send you there, we will bestow blessings upon you to aid you on your journey. You will receive a new name, a new identity, and a fresh start. Your abilities will be adapted to this world's magic, and you will effortlessly understand the local languages."

Lulutia's warm smile returned. "Furthermore, we will grant you the ability to connect with others on a deeper level, to form bonds that will help you heal and find happiness."

Kagome couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by their generosity. She had no reason to decline this opportunity—it was a chance to live free from the weight of her past. "Thank you," she said sincerely, her voice filled with gratitude.

The gods exchanged glances, their eyes reflecting their deep empathy for Kagome. "You're welcome, Kagome Higurashi," Lulutia replied. "Now, close your eyes, and we will begin the process of sending you to your new life."

With a deep breath, Kagome complied, shutting her eyes as she surrendered to the gods' magic. Her thoughts swirled with memories of her past life—the faces of her friends, the adventures, and the hardships she had endured alongside Inuyasha and the others. It had been a journey of growth and self-discovery, and she hoped to carry those lessons with her into this new world.

The room seemed to blur around her as the gods' magic began its work. Kagome felt a strange sensation, as if her very essence was being reshaped. It was both unsettling and exhilarating. She couldn't help but wonder about her new identity, what she would look like, and the abilities she would possess.

Minutes passed like hours, and then Kagome felt herself being gently placed on solid ground. She cautiously opened her eyes to find herself in a lush, vibrant forest. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers, and the symphony of birdsong filled her ears. Towering trees surrounded her, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor.

Taking a moment to take in her surroundings, Kagome realized she was dressed in a simple yet comfortable tunic and pants, ideal for exploring the wilderness. She smiled to herself, feeling a sense of adventure stir within her.

Venturing deeper into the forest, Kagome couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of this new world. The colors were more vivid, the air crisper, and the possibilities endless. She knew that this was her chance for a fresh start, a life unburdened by the past.

As she walked, Kagome's thoughts turned inward. She mused on the blessings bestowed upon her by the gods—new abilities, a fresh identity, and the promise of forming meaningful bonds. What would her new name be? What abilities had she been granted? These questions tumbled through her mind as she strolled through the forest, each step taking her further into the unknown.

The forest seemed to stretch on indefinitely, but Kagome didn't mind. It gave her time to reflect on her past and the choices she had made. She had loved Inuyasha deeply, and that love had led her to sacrifice so much. Now, she had a chance to focus on herself, to heal, and to find a different kind of happiness.

Eventually, Kagome came upon a crystal-clear stream, its waters glistening in the dappled sunlight. Kneeling by the stream, she cupped her hands to take a drink of the cool, refreshing water. As she gazed at her reflection in the clear water, Kagome couldn't help but smile. She looked different, but there was a glimmer of hope in her eyes, a determination to embrace this new world and all the adventures it held.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Kagome continued her journey through the forest, eager to discover what lay ahead and to begin her new life in a world of magic and endless possibilities.