This is my first fanfic. I hope you enjoy it but I don't accept flames. I welcome review that are constructive because I know how confusing things may seem (Hell I can confuse myself). But I have always believed if you don't have something nice to say then don't say it. Basically if you don't like it stop reading and go on to something more to your liking. Just give it a chance. Thanks.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Inuyasha series or characters or any other copy written stuff that I may have referred to or used in this story.
From Our Past
Prologue
Somewhere things didn't go as fate had planned it. History had changed its self causing a complicated alliance between humans and youkai around the globe. There was a time in the late 1200's when war was all either side knew. This war was violent in the beginning but lost its potency as both sides took heavy losses and many were mercilessly slautered by the opposing side.
When all hope seemed to be lost and both sides prepared for the end of their existance, there came a glimmer of humanity that both sides had forgotten ever existed. It happened during the last battle between youkai and the humans. Both sides being strong of will and arogant with pride were unwilling to stop the battle even long enough for the injured and dead to be retreaved from the battle field. The healers from both sides were forced to dodge between battling figures and flying arrows to do their part in the war by assisting the injured out of the way of the healthier warriors.
The girl Moridico was one such healer. She had been trained in her duties from the day she was born. At a young age of 15 she had already proven her abilities not only as a great healer but in battle as well. This battle seemed no different from any other to most but Midorico could feel the over whelming darkness that hung heavy in the air. The pungiant smell of blood was thick and filled her nostrils as she made her way from one injured man to the next doing what she could so they could crawl back to the safety zone. It was here that she would change history.
As she darted from one fallen body to the next searching for survivors she came upon a scene that wrenched her heart to the soul. In a small gully that lay between the battling forces she saw three human warriors attacking one of the youkai healers while he was attempting to do the exact same job she was. She was frozen in her place.One man stood with spear raised over the fallen youkai while the others held the healer at bay. The youkai healer watched horrified and helpless as the spear was plunged deep into the chest of his fallen comrad again and again until he didn't move anymore. His violet eyes filled with tears from frustration or sadness Moridico was not sure but she felt a tear run down her own cheek from the sadness her heart felt from witnessing such a brutal act.
She stared transfixed in disbelief with her mouth open in a silent scream as the tears continued to run freely down her face. 'How could they be so dishonorable as to attack a fallen soldier and a healer? Even the enemy deserved more honor then this.' Her mind made a silent outcry against the horrendous act. For the fist time since she had entered the battle fields she could taste death in the air and it filled her lungs with its putrid fumes with each heavy breath she took. She stood solid as the brutality of their actions sank into her very soul.
Her muscels refused to move and her voice left her body as she stared transfixed at the scene that unfolded in front of her.
All four of the warriors now had their attention on the youkai healer to finish him off as well. He dodged each swing and thrust of their weapons with graceful ease as he tried even now to reach the side of his fallen colleague. He didn't attack back but continued to focus on the motionless youkai on the ground but for each foot step he took forward they pushed him in another direction away until they were able to completely surround him.
They began to circle him slowly using their weapons in a stratigic pattern to keep him from jumping over or between them. As they paced off the circle was getting smaller and she could see the panic building in his eyes. His beautiful face was twisted with anger as he growled baring his fangs threateningly at them.
"I am a healer of my people. Can you not see the blue band on my arm? You are not to attack us as stated in the cronicles of the war agreement between our armies!" He hissed between his teeth as they continued to poke at him in their ritualistic manner. 'Perhaps they are too low bred to know of such things.' He thought to himself.
"I assume you are referring to the agreement that was written down and signed by the leaders of both sides." It was a statement not a question. The youkai's face showed a bit of shock but he continued to growl at the speaker. The man chuckled at him with a cruel smile. "Well you see since we are lowly humans," he said as if he had read the youkai's mind earlier, "we don't know how to read so we don't recognize that particular piece of parchment." They all joined him in laughing at the surprised look on the youki's face. He growled at the speaker with hateful eyes as he realized they were only toying with him until they could make their move.
Suddenly the speaker thrust his spear at the youkai whom dodged it easily enough but by now the circle was tight enough that he was unable to dodge the attack from behind. He snarled in pain as the sword slashed his shoulder leaving a deep gash. This time he faught back and swiftly kicked the swordsman behind him sending him flying back several feet. He tried to slip through this open hole in thier defense circle but they were well prepared for such an attempt and quickly filled the hole by thrusting their weapons there. The youkai was caught off guard and a spear was pushed in the flesh of his upper leg from behind. The youkai gritted his teeth as the spear was pulled none too gently free. Another sword was driven into his side and pulled out as he fell to on knee. He collapsed to the ground, blood running freely from his wounds. Pain filled his handsome face, his breaths were strained as he tried to gain control of this problem and get back to his feet.
Moridico couldn't take any more of this horrific error. She found her voice and screamed as she ran toward the assailants. She attacked with out thought of what could happen to her. All she could think of was saving the beautiful creature they were going to destroy. The fluidity of her movements were flawless as she jumped and kicked two of the warriors from behind sending them flying to the ground dazed. The other man that had been kicked by the youkai had recovered and joined the remaining man in attacking her. She stood her ground with her staff poised at her side. With the accurate precision of a beautiful dance she blocked each swing and dodged each thrust with a grace few humans possessed. Meticulously she attacked back and within mere moments the two were on the ground unconcious. Without loosing her momentum she turned her attention on the remaining two warriors that were now regaining the air she had knocked out of them.
One warrior jumped forward in an attempt to distract her while the other tried to run past her to finish the fallen youkai. Quickly she blocked the swing of the warrior in front of her as she skillfully planted one end of her staff in the ground and used it as leverage to catapult herself between the youkai and the rushing warrior. Her marshal arts training did not fail her. With swirling robes and staff she quickly dispatched them as skillfully as she had the two before them. The youkai healer watched the beautiful angel as she faught for his life. Her face showed no fear but instead pure determination. He could feel the power eminate from her very soul. When she turned to look at him he felt a sudden fear he could not understand and involuntarily scooted himself back from her.
A knowing look filled her eyes and they softened with furrowed eye brows that showed concern and caring. Slowly she kneeled down in front of him and laid her staff on the ground in front of her. She folded her hands neatly on her lap then lowered her gaze as she bowed to him.
"I am the Lady Moridico, Miko to The House Higurashi and I am at your service. Please forgive my actions as it is not approved for women of my station to battle but their attack on you was dishonorable I could not stand for it to continue. I am sorry I did not react quickly enough to save your fallen comrade." She bowed her head solemly as if ashamed to even speak of it.
"You endanger yourself by even being this far across the front lines dear Lady." His voice was deep but gentle as he spoke hesitantly to her. He quickly looked at the unconcious warriors then back at her before continueing. "Although you feel your timing was late I believe it came at the moment it was meant to." He tried to make it as light hearted as possible but still felt the loss of his companion deep in his heart. Even though his male instincts wanted to remain there and talk more to this enchanting creature he also realized the warriors would wake soon, so before his time ran out he would need to leave. "However I must take my leave before your comrades begin to awaken. I appreciate groan your help." He started to stand but became very dizzy from blood loss and fell forward.
Without a thought Moridico reached up to catch him without realizing how heavy he actually was. His wieght was too much for her to hold and they both tumbled to the ground with him on top of her. Her heart began to beat wildly and she could feel the heat on her cheeks from the blush that she knew was there. She felt his breath on the side of her neck as his chest rose and fell with his labored breathing. She stiffened as he nuzzled her neck with his nose and she thought she heard a sniffing sound.
Panic began to take over her mind and she placed her hands on his firm chest to push him off. She realized how solid the muscles were and knew from looking at him before his whole body was just as firm and muscular. She had witnessed his emense strength when he kicked that warrior. 'Why had the youkai not been able to defeat the humans completely by now? They were clearly the stronger race.' She began to wonder. As if he could sense her fear he painfully pushed himself up from her. She could now see his face more closely and could not contain a gasp. His skin was slightly tanned with three dark purple stripes that ran from his pointed ears half way down his jawline and cheeks toward his chin as if claws had made permanent marks there. His eyes were a violet color and his hair was mostly dark brown with black streaks through it tied back in a long pony tail that draped over his shoulder. Soft lips smirked at her and she thought she could see a tringe of pink on his cheeks.
"My apologies Lady Miko." He gritted his teeth as he forced himself off of her. She took this opporunity to scramble to her feet. Turning her back to him she brushed the dirt from her robes and cape.
"It is quite alright," she tried to keep her voice as steady as possible to hide her nervousness, "I saw you stumble and loose your balanc---" she spun around when she heard a grunt of pain escape his lips as he tried to stand on the leg that the spear had pierced. As he took a step forward his leg buckled under the pain again but this time she was prepared and quickly stepped under his arm to support him instead of trying to catch him. He looked into her eyes and smiled sheepishly. Atleast that is what she thought but anyone else watching would have imagined it as a sneer because of his fangs. However Moridico's heart was totally captivated by that smile that seemed to reach out to her heart strings and puck at them one by one.
"Again I am very sorry but I need to leave before your companions awake and---"
"They are not companions of mine I asure you. I have never seen them until this very day." She proclaimed. He narrowed his eyes but took her at her word.
"Yes well, the problem is that they will attack me again unless I vacate this area soon." He grinned at her.
"I believe you are correct in that assumption." She looked deep into his eyes and could see his gentle soul there. "B--b-ut I-- you are having some trouble walking. I--I could assist you to a safer place to rest." She stuttered some but regained her composure quickly.
"The only place safe for me is back home but since it is so far away I would say that option is out of the question." He smiled light heartedly at her. She just looked at him blankly. He cleared his throat and continued. "So since that is not feasible I would have to say my next best option would be back at the youkai camp but that may put you into danger and I would not want to live with the knowledge that I could have prevented your being harmed." He watched her face as she considered his words. They both turned to look at a warrior that moaned but otherwise didn't move or make another sound.
"I will take that risk. We must hurry." She whispered. He only knodded as she bent down for her staff then supported the side with the injured leg. They walked away from the unconcious warriors toward the youkai camp as quickly as they could. The going was slow with rocks and dips in the ground but they soon could hear the sounds of battle just over a small hill.
"I should go on by myself from here so you are not har--" Moridico placed a finger over his lips to hush him. His eyes widened as he realized she intended to take him all the way.
"I have faith all will be well." She then handed the staff to his side with the injured shoulder making sure he would be able to hold onto it. With her now free hand she secured her fingers around her prayer beads that hung around her neck. She looked up at him with a whimsical smile. "You will need to be my eyes for a bit. I have to concentrate." With that said she closed her eyes and began to say a prayer. Slowly a blue sphere began to form around them.
The youkai looked down at her with wonder but started to walk forward when he felt her arm that was behind his back gently press him as a signal to move. Carefully he picked a route that had few obsticles and before long they were surrounded by the main battle. He watched with wide eyes as arrows, spears and even sword attacks were deflected from them by her magical blue shield. Any who tried to attack were struck by a powerful shock and thrown out of their path.
Then a mircle began to happen as warriors on both sides stopped fighting to stare at the strange couple inside the blue sphere that pushed past them. A feeling of awe spred across the ranks like wild fire and soon the battle stopped as warriors from both sides started to fall back taking their injured with them. By this time the sphere had protected them for several hundred yards into the youkai ranks and he felt it was time for him to leave her and join his comrades as well as she should return to hers.
"Please dear Lady I think it is time for you to ----" again she interupted him while he was speaking.
"Shshshsh--- tents!" She whispered with eyes still closed and he saw the shield flicker slightly but pick back up as soon as she started up her prayer again. To his dismay the generals of the youkai army where headed straight for them. He looked over his shoulder to the humans and could make out what looked like the generals of the humans coming up fast on horses carrying a negotiation standard on a flag pole.
"We have very important company coming. Now would be a good time to stop." He leaned down and whispered in her ear. Slowly she opened her eyes and could see all the youkai that now surrounded them. Her heart felt like it would jump out of her throat at any moment. The sphere began to disepate just as the youkai generals reached them. An older version of her comanion stepped forward with a very grim expression on his face.
"Yani, what is the meaning of this? You were not to leave the camp let alone become injured and return with a human wench no less! How much more do you intend for your family to endure with your antics?" The nobleman folded his arms across his chest and seemed to tower over them menicingly. His face was as harsh as his words.
"I--I--" Yani started to say but again was cut off by his female counter part. She had listened to this general and was more then displeased by what he had said. It was down right rude to repremand someone infront of others.
"I beg your pardon General-- err--- what ever you are," She flipped her hand in an annoyed manner for lack of the knowledge concerning their rank titles. The general raised an eye brow astonished at her forwardness and willingness to defend Yani. "but" she continued with out missing a beat, "he was preforming a very noble deed for a fellow youkai which may I add is part of his duty since he wears the blue band of your healers and was attacked by some unorderly, untrained and dishonorable humans which--" She suddenly felt an arm around her waist and a hand clasp firmly over her mouth to shut her up as she was pulled solidly against a firm chest. Her hand began to glow instictively and she was about to lay a hand of purification on the culprit until she recognized a very familiar voice in her ear.
"Dear Lady, you should not speak to my Lordship in this manner. It is disrespectful to the ruler." Yani whispered gently to calm her. Her eyes widened in shock when he told her whom she was speaking to. "I am sorry to have to hold you this way but you must not defend me. Althought I have to say I am flattered that you would do such a thing under the circumstances." He slowly released his hold on her as she relaxed and turned to look up at him. She could see how serious he was as his eyes pleaded with her to understand. Sighing she folded her hands in front of her and turned back to the Lord. He had his arms crossed over his chest and he scowled at her with disapproval. Biting her lip embarrassed she lowered her eyes and bowed repectfully.
"My deepest apologies my lord. I was out of line and very disrespectful by speaking to you in such a terrible manner. I understand I have endangered your ranks by bringing Yani here but it was necessary. I should take my leave now to avoid any further misunderstandings." She straightened but didn't look at the youkai leader as she spun around and reached for her staff where Yani had dropped it to the ground to grab her. Before she could stand back up several weapons were pointed at her. In her mind she began to feel that by doing what her heart told her was right she had also written her own death sentence. Calmly she stood and took a fighting stance preparing to fight to the death.
"Spirited child isn't she?" The youkai lord spoke up behind her.
"Yes my lord she is. And one hell of a fighter as well." Yani replied solemnly.
"Please do not speak about me as if I am not present." She said without turning around to face them, her eyes darted back and forth waiting for any that may attack.
"It was simply an observation child, nothing was meant by it." The lord chuckled.
"So I am being detained for the sake of observation?" She hissed a little more sarcastically then she intended. His chuckle became more of a laugh.
"Not at all dear Miko but your presence has given us a chance to demand more negotiations. I would insist that you acompany these guards to the prisoner tent." He snapped his fingers and five youkai stepped forward to take her away.
"I would rather die then be used as a pawn in some sick sceme!" She growled and spun her staff threateningly as the five youkai warriors started to circle her. Suddenly she was once again grabbed and pulled against a firm chest. Within seconds the arm that was using the staff was sieze by a youkai to the side as well as her other arm by another. She was about to scream in anger but felt a sharp pain behind her head where the neck meets the shoulder. As the pain increased she began to loose conciousness. The last thing she heard was Yani's voice in her ear "Please forgive me."
Yani watched as his savior angel was carried away. He felt like he had betrayed her by refusing to let her commit suicide. 'It was the right thing to do.' he kept telling himself. His thoughts were shattered by a rough hand clasping his injured shoulder causing him to flinch in pain from the wound. He rubbed his numbing arm gently.
"They used a poison made from deamon bane on thier weapons. You should go to my private surgeon to have that taken care of properly." The lord said quietly.
"I would prefer to attend the enlisted healers since that is what I am father. If I allow myself to be treated any differently then the morale may begin to slip. I would not want to be the cause of that happening." Yani proclaimed flatly. The lord didn't reply but smiled inwardly with pride as they walked toward the enlisted infermary. Before he left Yani he instructed him to come to his tent as soon as he was done with the healers. Yani knodded and slipped inside the tent.
Moridico awoke with a bit of a headache and slumped over setting on her knees. Her neck throbbed where the pain that had caused her to go unconcious came from. She was tied about the waist to a pole and her hands were strapped behind that. Slowly she raised her head and supported it against the pole so she could look around. The tent was rather large and dimly lit with torches on stands that set close to the tent walls. Ten other poles helped to hold the top up but she was the only prisoner in the tent at this time. Weather they had ever been used she didn't know and really didn't want to speculate on the subject. The air was cool around her and she could feel a slight breeze on her bare arms. 'Wait a minute,' she thought through the fog in her head, 'I had a long sleeved robe and cloak on when I was taken. Oh Kami! Don't tell me they disrobed me for their pleasure." A tear slipped down her cheek as she looked down at herself while holding her breath. To her relief she was still wearing the thin undergarments that were there when she put the robe on that morning but her shoes and all her jewelry had been removed. She also realized her hair was laying loosely down to her waist. 'Damn they are too cautious and took anything that could be used as a weapon.' She sighed as she looked up to the top of the pole she was tied to then at her surroundings again trying to come up with a plan of some sort to escape but her thoughts kept drifting back to Yani.
"Please forgive me." Those words kept haunting her. 'How could he do this after what I did for him?' She asked herself several times but came up with the same answer each time. 'Because he is your enemy!' Her heart refused to accept that as the answer. 'There was more to it. There had to be!' She could still invision his soft warm eyes when she closed hers. Silent tears rolled freely down her face and landed on her chest. She hung her head and sobbed lightly hoping no one could hear her but she knew that most youkai would be able to. It was a well known fact that besides physical strength, all of the youkais' senses where stronger then humans. 'How had humans survived this long? It had to be because of sheer numbers. There is no other explanation for it.' She felt like dying. Because of her the human race would have to concede defeat and become enslaved to their mortal enemy. It was all her fault. She prayed that the human negotiators would not concede and would let her be sacrificed instead. Her family would hold its honor then reguardless of her foolishness.
More tears fell as a state of loss and depression sank into her very soul. If she managed to survive this ordeal how could she over come the shame of what she did to her family name. She was sure they were already being chastised with dishonor by now and all because of her fine sensibilities for humanity. Again she began to pray silently that the negotiators would deny any bargans and just let her be executed like any other soldier would have been. But she knew that was a futile thought. Mikos were in short demand and cherished among her people.
She was so caught up in her self pity that she didn't notice the stronger breeze that blew against her when the tent flap was lifted then closed. A dark figure walked cautiously toward her sobbing form. Her spiritual senses were so impaired by her emotions she didn't even feel him as he kneeled down next to her. Gently he pushed the hair away from her face as he leaned forward to hug her to comfort her. She leaned into his shoulder accepting his arms around her. Some how she knew eventually he would show up wanting to settle his guilt.
"Why?" She said between sobs.
"I--I had to. You would have died." He hugged her tighter. "If you are thinking 'that can't be all' you are correct. There are many reasons I could come up with why--" As usual she interrupted him.
"Reasons? You mean excuses for betraying me!" She hissed trying to wrench out of his hold but failed because of the pole she was tied to. Anger filled her heart with a fierceness she never knew existed within her. She began to yank as hard as she could on the pole determined to move away from him. She pulled so hard she managed to move the pole 3 inches. Yani became frantic believing she was going to bring the tent down on them. With as much strength as he dared, he used one hand to pull the pole back into place and the other in an attempt to hold her still. This only angered her more and she struggled harder against her restraints despite his efforts to control her and once again pulled the pole out of place. A low growl from frustration emitted from his chest and he pulled the pole back into place.
"Woman you are trying my patience. Stop this foolishness before you bring the tent down and hurt yourself." He positioned a knee on either side of her to hold her still.
"What do you care?" She tried to scream but he had her face buried in his chest to keep her voice down.
"More then you seem to know." He replied calmly.
"Now you are trying to tell me that you betrayed me to protect me?" She said harshly.
"In part yes, but not completely. If you feel---" She would have struck him if she could. Anger and frustration were wearing her down but she would not give up and once again she interrupted him.
"How would you know how I feel? You know nothing of me. I saved you from those warriors because what they did was wrong. I made the choice to bring you all the way back to your comrades because it was the right thing. It was the honorable and noble thing to do. I was willing to sacrifice myself to save you but you wouldn't even let me have the honor of dying in battle. I will not stay here and let you bastards use me to manipulate my people into submission. I would die first attempting to escape." Tears flowed down her face again as she released her frustration on him. She slumped into him welcoming his warm embrace.
"I know more than you think. I can smell your fear, your frustration and even your anger. But if you think you are here because we want to use you as a pawn to make your race submit to our will you are very much wrong. You were tied up like this to keep you from harming any of us. Your power is emence and we can all feel it. We fear you and your kind more then any warrior in your army. Why you ask? Because you and those like you can negate our very existance with a mere touch of a finger.
Your selfless act of bravado gave us a window of oportunity that we could not ignore. We needed you---" She looked up at him with her mouth open to interrupt him again but he quickly placed a hand over her mouth to stop her. Her eyes grew wide with shock as he stared into them. "Please trust me, I won't allow anything to happen to you. Listen with an open heart to what I am saying." His eyes held so much sincerity her heart wanted to believe him. She knodded that she understood but was unable to pull her gaze away from his beautiful violet eyes. Slowly he removed his hand from her mouth before he continued.
"We needed you so they would--- so your commanders would meet with us. It is us who are at a point of submission but we will not be defeated without a fight. We had given up all hope that we could ever survive this battle. I believe they knew this and that is why they have refused to meet and negotiate with us. In a last attempt to make them meet with us a youkai was sent to retrieve something or someone precious to the humans. I followed him believing that two of us would have a better chance.
We were discovered by those warriors and they mortally injured Domi. I pleaded with them to let me attend his injuries but they would have no part of it. Their hearts were tainted by the lust of glory. After they finished killing Domi they turned their blood lust on me. I truely believed that I would soon join Domi in hell until a beautiful angel saved me from a most certain doom." His smile and his endearing ending made her blush. She shivered slightley from either the cold or nervousness but none the less he scooted closer and wrapped his cloak around her as much as he could. He wanted to cherish her in his arms for eternity but knew that it would come to an end sooner or later. She would have to leave and the war would continue unless some agreement could be reached.
His mind kept telling him that what he felt was nothing more then his male lumbeado over acting to the fair heroin that saved his life. At the same time his heart told him something different. His heart yearned for his love to be returned by her. His desires could be due to his animal instincts but his heart told him it was more then lust. He sighed lightly as he cuddled her closer. He heard her sigh and was pleased that perhaps the little comfort he could give would help calm her.
"You aren't afraid of me?" She looked up into his surprised face. "I thought that perhaps since you had risked your life for me then you would not try to destroy me. Was I wrong?" The question in his eyes made her smile.
"No I could not harm you. Yani is your name correct?" She asked whistfully.
"As a matter of fact yes. Why do you ask?" He leaned back with confussion on his face.
"You never told me your name." She giggled quietly. "You can let me go now." He searched her eyes wanting with all his heart to believe in her. He had followed his heart once that day and it led him to her now he questioned whether he should follow it again. As if reading his mind she continued. "You asked me to trust you. Now I am asking you to trust me. If there is anything in my power to help your people then I will do it." Her innocent smile melted any doubt that could have existed with in his soul. Without another thought he used his claws and gently cut the ropes that held her to the pole. He helped her to her feet but her legs were still wably from setting on them for so long. She stumbled forward but was caught in his strong arms and held firmly against his chest. He lowered his head and deeply breathed in her scent. It was intoxicating to him for some strange reason and he never wanted to let her go. He wanted to hold her and protect her from all evil that was in the world. A shiver from her brought him out of his thoughts and he looked down at her.
"Are you cold?" He asked calmly hoping she hadn't noticed his lack of concentration. She knodded shyly with her face down unable to look into his beautiful face for fear of loosing herself in his eyes. Carefully he used one hand to pull his cloak from his back and draped it over her shoulders then wrapped his arms securely around her using his own body heat to help her warm up. She sighed and snuggled into his chest more welcoming the warmth he offered. This only encouraged him to feel more protective. He rested his chin on top of her head in complete bliss wishing this would never end. But as is the way of war they were interrupted when a herold called to him from outside the tent.
"LEE-CHAN!" The young teenaged girl almost jumped out of her skin from her brother's loud voice behind her. He laughed histerically and pointed at her reddened face. "Don't tell me 'hehehehe' they lived 'hehehe' happily ever after! HAHAHAHAHA!" He continued to laugh as others with in hearing distance who also had heard him began to laugh at her expense. "Mom said come home for supper." He giggled continually.
"You are such an ass Choa!" Lee fumed and slamed the book closed. "I will read to you another time." The three little girls sighed disappointed but waved good bye and promised to meet her tomorrow to hear the rest of her story. "I should tell mother what you did. That was unforgivable Choa!" Her face still red Lee began to walk back toward the street that would lead her home. Her brother relentlessly poked fun at her as they walked avoiding all her attempts to slap him. Unknown to them a dark figure was in the shaded branches above and had been listening in on the girl's story telling as well. It was one of her favorite tales of the past and coming here to the park to listen to Lee read to any that would listen was her only way to hear such stories. In her world these soft emotional stories were concidered weak and useless.
She could not afford for any of her co-workers to see her enjoying this sort of thing. The word would get out that she was week and she would be waisting alot of time with challenges. Of course there were few who would use it against her but still some would try. Although she hated confrontation a good scuffle might prove to be useful in putting certain advisaries back in their place and confirm her foot hold as one of the top operatives in the clan. But then again it would draw the attention of the master and that is not something she wanted right now. For months she had been avoiding contact with him as much as possible. She would make up excuses not to attend dinner or stay after turning in the reports on her assignments. This next meeting however didn't feel right for some reason. His voice seemed different and he made hints about certain activities that the two of them used to enjoy together. That was before Kagura and Kanna. No matter she would endure this encounter just as she had all others in the past year and make an excuse to leave before he was able to use her emotions against her. 'Emotions!' She shook her head pitifully. Why did Kami give her emotions. Such a weak part of her soul.
Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Inuyasha series or characters or any other copy written stuff that I may have referred to or used in this story.
From Our Past
Prologue
Somewhere things didn't go as fate had planned it. History had changed its self causing a complicated alliance between humans and youkai around the globe. There was a time in the late 1200's when war was all either side knew. This war was violent in the beginning but lost its potency as both sides took heavy losses and many were mercilessly slautered by the opposing side.
When all hope seemed to be lost and both sides prepared for the end of their existance, there came a glimmer of humanity that both sides had forgotten ever existed. It happened during the last battle between youkai and the humans. Both sides being strong of will and arogant with pride were unwilling to stop the battle even long enough for the injured and dead to be retreaved from the battle field. The healers from both sides were forced to dodge between battling figures and flying arrows to do their part in the war by assisting the injured out of the way of the healthier warriors.
The girl Moridico was one such healer. She had been trained in her duties from the day she was born. At a young age of 15 she had already proven her abilities not only as a great healer but in battle as well. This battle seemed no different from any other to most but Midorico could feel the over whelming darkness that hung heavy in the air. The pungiant smell of blood was thick and filled her nostrils as she made her way from one injured man to the next doing what she could so they could crawl back to the safety zone. It was here that she would change history.
As she darted from one fallen body to the next searching for survivors she came upon a scene that wrenched her heart to the soul. In a small gully that lay between the battling forces she saw three human warriors attacking one of the youkai healers while he was attempting to do the exact same job she was. She was frozen in her place.One man stood with spear raised over the fallen youkai while the others held the healer at bay. The youkai healer watched horrified and helpless as the spear was plunged deep into the chest of his fallen comrad again and again until he didn't move anymore. His violet eyes filled with tears from frustration or sadness Moridico was not sure but she felt a tear run down her own cheek from the sadness her heart felt from witnessing such a brutal act.
She stared transfixed in disbelief with her mouth open in a silent scream as the tears continued to run freely down her face. 'How could they be so dishonorable as to attack a fallen soldier and a healer? Even the enemy deserved more honor then this.' Her mind made a silent outcry against the horrendous act. For the fist time since she had entered the battle fields she could taste death in the air and it filled her lungs with its putrid fumes with each heavy breath she took. She stood solid as the brutality of their actions sank into her very soul.
Her muscels refused to move and her voice left her body as she stared transfixed at the scene that unfolded in front of her.
All four of the warriors now had their attention on the youkai healer to finish him off as well. He dodged each swing and thrust of their weapons with graceful ease as he tried even now to reach the side of his fallen colleague. He didn't attack back but continued to focus on the motionless youkai on the ground but for each foot step he took forward they pushed him in another direction away until they were able to completely surround him.
They began to circle him slowly using their weapons in a stratigic pattern to keep him from jumping over or between them. As they paced off the circle was getting smaller and she could see the panic building in his eyes. His beautiful face was twisted with anger as he growled baring his fangs threateningly at them.
"I am a healer of my people. Can you not see the blue band on my arm? You are not to attack us as stated in the cronicles of the war agreement between our armies!" He hissed between his teeth as they continued to poke at him in their ritualistic manner. 'Perhaps they are too low bred to know of such things.' He thought to himself.
"I assume you are referring to the agreement that was written down and signed by the leaders of both sides." It was a statement not a question. The youkai's face showed a bit of shock but he continued to growl at the speaker. The man chuckled at him with a cruel smile. "Well you see since we are lowly humans," he said as if he had read the youkai's mind earlier, "we don't know how to read so we don't recognize that particular piece of parchment." They all joined him in laughing at the surprised look on the youki's face. He growled at the speaker with hateful eyes as he realized they were only toying with him until they could make their move.
Suddenly the speaker thrust his spear at the youkai whom dodged it easily enough but by now the circle was tight enough that he was unable to dodge the attack from behind. He snarled in pain as the sword slashed his shoulder leaving a deep gash. This time he faught back and swiftly kicked the swordsman behind him sending him flying back several feet. He tried to slip through this open hole in thier defense circle but they were well prepared for such an attempt and quickly filled the hole by thrusting their weapons there. The youkai was caught off guard and a spear was pushed in the flesh of his upper leg from behind. The youkai gritted his teeth as the spear was pulled none too gently free. Another sword was driven into his side and pulled out as he fell to on knee. He collapsed to the ground, blood running freely from his wounds. Pain filled his handsome face, his breaths were strained as he tried to gain control of this problem and get back to his feet.
Moridico couldn't take any more of this horrific error. She found her voice and screamed as she ran toward the assailants. She attacked with out thought of what could happen to her. All she could think of was saving the beautiful creature they were going to destroy. The fluidity of her movements were flawless as she jumped and kicked two of the warriors from behind sending them flying to the ground dazed. The other man that had been kicked by the youkai had recovered and joined the remaining man in attacking her. She stood her ground with her staff poised at her side. With the accurate precision of a beautiful dance she blocked each swing and dodged each thrust with a grace few humans possessed. Meticulously she attacked back and within mere moments the two were on the ground unconcious. Without loosing her momentum she turned her attention on the remaining two warriors that were now regaining the air she had knocked out of them.
One warrior jumped forward in an attempt to distract her while the other tried to run past her to finish the fallen youkai. Quickly she blocked the swing of the warrior in front of her as she skillfully planted one end of her staff in the ground and used it as leverage to catapult herself between the youkai and the rushing warrior. Her marshal arts training did not fail her. With swirling robes and staff she quickly dispatched them as skillfully as she had the two before them. The youkai healer watched the beautiful angel as she faught for his life. Her face showed no fear but instead pure determination. He could feel the power eminate from her very soul. When she turned to look at him he felt a sudden fear he could not understand and involuntarily scooted himself back from her.
A knowing look filled her eyes and they softened with furrowed eye brows that showed concern and caring. Slowly she kneeled down in front of him and laid her staff on the ground in front of her. She folded her hands neatly on her lap then lowered her gaze as she bowed to him.
"I am the Lady Moridico, Miko to The House Higurashi and I am at your service. Please forgive my actions as it is not approved for women of my station to battle but their attack on you was dishonorable I could not stand for it to continue. I am sorry I did not react quickly enough to save your fallen comrade." She bowed her head solemly as if ashamed to even speak of it.
"You endanger yourself by even being this far across the front lines dear Lady." His voice was deep but gentle as he spoke hesitantly to her. He quickly looked at the unconcious warriors then back at her before continueing. "Although you feel your timing was late I believe it came at the moment it was meant to." He tried to make it as light hearted as possible but still felt the loss of his companion deep in his heart. Even though his male instincts wanted to remain there and talk more to this enchanting creature he also realized the warriors would wake soon, so before his time ran out he would need to leave. "However I must take my leave before your comrades begin to awaken. I appreciate groan your help." He started to stand but became very dizzy from blood loss and fell forward.
Without a thought Moridico reached up to catch him without realizing how heavy he actually was. His wieght was too much for her to hold and they both tumbled to the ground with him on top of her. Her heart began to beat wildly and she could feel the heat on her cheeks from the blush that she knew was there. She felt his breath on the side of her neck as his chest rose and fell with his labored breathing. She stiffened as he nuzzled her neck with his nose and she thought she heard a sniffing sound.
Panic began to take over her mind and she placed her hands on his firm chest to push him off. She realized how solid the muscles were and knew from looking at him before his whole body was just as firm and muscular. She had witnessed his emense strength when he kicked that warrior. 'Why had the youkai not been able to defeat the humans completely by now? They were clearly the stronger race.' She began to wonder. As if he could sense her fear he painfully pushed himself up from her. She could now see his face more closely and could not contain a gasp. His skin was slightly tanned with three dark purple stripes that ran from his pointed ears half way down his jawline and cheeks toward his chin as if claws had made permanent marks there. His eyes were a violet color and his hair was mostly dark brown with black streaks through it tied back in a long pony tail that draped over his shoulder. Soft lips smirked at her and she thought she could see a tringe of pink on his cheeks.
"My apologies Lady Miko." He gritted his teeth as he forced himself off of her. She took this opporunity to scramble to her feet. Turning her back to him she brushed the dirt from her robes and cape.
"It is quite alright," she tried to keep her voice as steady as possible to hide her nervousness, "I saw you stumble and loose your balanc---" she spun around when she heard a grunt of pain escape his lips as he tried to stand on the leg that the spear had pierced. As he took a step forward his leg buckled under the pain again but this time she was prepared and quickly stepped under his arm to support him instead of trying to catch him. He looked into her eyes and smiled sheepishly. Atleast that is what she thought but anyone else watching would have imagined it as a sneer because of his fangs. However Moridico's heart was totally captivated by that smile that seemed to reach out to her heart strings and puck at them one by one.
"Again I am very sorry but I need to leave before your companions awake and---"
"They are not companions of mine I asure you. I have never seen them until this very day." She proclaimed. He narrowed his eyes but took her at her word.
"Yes well, the problem is that they will attack me again unless I vacate this area soon." He grinned at her.
"I believe you are correct in that assumption." She looked deep into his eyes and could see his gentle soul there. "B--b-ut I-- you are having some trouble walking. I--I could assist you to a safer place to rest." She stuttered some but regained her composure quickly.
"The only place safe for me is back home but since it is so far away I would say that option is out of the question." He smiled light heartedly at her. She just looked at him blankly. He cleared his throat and continued. "So since that is not feasible I would have to say my next best option would be back at the youkai camp but that may put you into danger and I would not want to live with the knowledge that I could have prevented your being harmed." He watched her face as she considered his words. They both turned to look at a warrior that moaned but otherwise didn't move or make another sound.
"I will take that risk. We must hurry." She whispered. He only knodded as she bent down for her staff then supported the side with the injured leg. They walked away from the unconcious warriors toward the youkai camp as quickly as they could. The going was slow with rocks and dips in the ground but they soon could hear the sounds of battle just over a small hill.
"I should go on by myself from here so you are not har--" Moridico placed a finger over his lips to hush him. His eyes widened as he realized she intended to take him all the way.
"I have faith all will be well." She then handed the staff to his side with the injured shoulder making sure he would be able to hold onto it. With her now free hand she secured her fingers around her prayer beads that hung around her neck. She looked up at him with a whimsical smile. "You will need to be my eyes for a bit. I have to concentrate." With that said she closed her eyes and began to say a prayer. Slowly a blue sphere began to form around them.
The youkai looked down at her with wonder but started to walk forward when he felt her arm that was behind his back gently press him as a signal to move. Carefully he picked a route that had few obsticles and before long they were surrounded by the main battle. He watched with wide eyes as arrows, spears and even sword attacks were deflected from them by her magical blue shield. Any who tried to attack were struck by a powerful shock and thrown out of their path.
Then a mircle began to happen as warriors on both sides stopped fighting to stare at the strange couple inside the blue sphere that pushed past them. A feeling of awe spred across the ranks like wild fire and soon the battle stopped as warriors from both sides started to fall back taking their injured with them. By this time the sphere had protected them for several hundred yards into the youkai ranks and he felt it was time for him to leave her and join his comrades as well as she should return to hers.
"Please dear Lady I think it is time for you to ----" again she interupted him while he was speaking.
"Shshshsh--- tents!" She whispered with eyes still closed and he saw the shield flicker slightly but pick back up as soon as she started up her prayer again. To his dismay the generals of the youkai army where headed straight for them. He looked over his shoulder to the humans and could make out what looked like the generals of the humans coming up fast on horses carrying a negotiation standard on a flag pole.
"We have very important company coming. Now would be a good time to stop." He leaned down and whispered in her ear. Slowly she opened her eyes and could see all the youkai that now surrounded them. Her heart felt like it would jump out of her throat at any moment. The sphere began to disepate just as the youkai generals reached them. An older version of her comanion stepped forward with a very grim expression on his face.
"Yani, what is the meaning of this? You were not to leave the camp let alone become injured and return with a human wench no less! How much more do you intend for your family to endure with your antics?" The nobleman folded his arms across his chest and seemed to tower over them menicingly. His face was as harsh as his words.
"I--I--" Yani started to say but again was cut off by his female counter part. She had listened to this general and was more then displeased by what he had said. It was down right rude to repremand someone infront of others.
"I beg your pardon General-- err--- what ever you are," She flipped her hand in an annoyed manner for lack of the knowledge concerning their rank titles. The general raised an eye brow astonished at her forwardness and willingness to defend Yani. "but" she continued with out missing a beat, "he was preforming a very noble deed for a fellow youkai which may I add is part of his duty since he wears the blue band of your healers and was attacked by some unorderly, untrained and dishonorable humans which--" She suddenly felt an arm around her waist and a hand clasp firmly over her mouth to shut her up as she was pulled solidly against a firm chest. Her hand began to glow instictively and she was about to lay a hand of purification on the culprit until she recognized a very familiar voice in her ear.
"Dear Lady, you should not speak to my Lordship in this manner. It is disrespectful to the ruler." Yani whispered gently to calm her. Her eyes widened in shock when he told her whom she was speaking to. "I am sorry to have to hold you this way but you must not defend me. Althought I have to say I am flattered that you would do such a thing under the circumstances." He slowly released his hold on her as she relaxed and turned to look up at him. She could see how serious he was as his eyes pleaded with her to understand. Sighing she folded her hands in front of her and turned back to the Lord. He had his arms crossed over his chest and he scowled at her with disapproval. Biting her lip embarrassed she lowered her eyes and bowed repectfully.
"My deepest apologies my lord. I was out of line and very disrespectful by speaking to you in such a terrible manner. I understand I have endangered your ranks by bringing Yani here but it was necessary. I should take my leave now to avoid any further misunderstandings." She straightened but didn't look at the youkai leader as she spun around and reached for her staff where Yani had dropped it to the ground to grab her. Before she could stand back up several weapons were pointed at her. In her mind she began to feel that by doing what her heart told her was right she had also written her own death sentence. Calmly she stood and took a fighting stance preparing to fight to the death.
"Spirited child isn't she?" The youkai lord spoke up behind her.
"Yes my lord she is. And one hell of a fighter as well." Yani replied solemnly.
"Please do not speak about me as if I am not present." She said without turning around to face them, her eyes darted back and forth waiting for any that may attack.
"It was simply an observation child, nothing was meant by it." The lord chuckled.
"So I am being detained for the sake of observation?" She hissed a little more sarcastically then she intended. His chuckle became more of a laugh.
"Not at all dear Miko but your presence has given us a chance to demand more negotiations. I would insist that you acompany these guards to the prisoner tent." He snapped his fingers and five youkai stepped forward to take her away.
"I would rather die then be used as a pawn in some sick sceme!" She growled and spun her staff threateningly as the five youkai warriors started to circle her. Suddenly she was once again grabbed and pulled against a firm chest. Within seconds the arm that was using the staff was sieze by a youkai to the side as well as her other arm by another. She was about to scream in anger but felt a sharp pain behind her head where the neck meets the shoulder. As the pain increased she began to loose conciousness. The last thing she heard was Yani's voice in her ear "Please forgive me."
Yani watched as his savior angel was carried away. He felt like he had betrayed her by refusing to let her commit suicide. 'It was the right thing to do.' he kept telling himself. His thoughts were shattered by a rough hand clasping his injured shoulder causing him to flinch in pain from the wound. He rubbed his numbing arm gently.
"They used a poison made from deamon bane on thier weapons. You should go to my private surgeon to have that taken care of properly." The lord said quietly.
"I would prefer to attend the enlisted healers since that is what I am father. If I allow myself to be treated any differently then the morale may begin to slip. I would not want to be the cause of that happening." Yani proclaimed flatly. The lord didn't reply but smiled inwardly with pride as they walked toward the enlisted infermary. Before he left Yani he instructed him to come to his tent as soon as he was done with the healers. Yani knodded and slipped inside the tent.
Moridico awoke with a bit of a headache and slumped over setting on her knees. Her neck throbbed where the pain that had caused her to go unconcious came from. She was tied about the waist to a pole and her hands were strapped behind that. Slowly she raised her head and supported it against the pole so she could look around. The tent was rather large and dimly lit with torches on stands that set close to the tent walls. Ten other poles helped to hold the top up but she was the only prisoner in the tent at this time. Weather they had ever been used she didn't know and really didn't want to speculate on the subject. The air was cool around her and she could feel a slight breeze on her bare arms. 'Wait a minute,' she thought through the fog in her head, 'I had a long sleeved robe and cloak on when I was taken. Oh Kami! Don't tell me they disrobed me for their pleasure." A tear slipped down her cheek as she looked down at herself while holding her breath. To her relief she was still wearing the thin undergarments that were there when she put the robe on that morning but her shoes and all her jewelry had been removed. She also realized her hair was laying loosely down to her waist. 'Damn they are too cautious and took anything that could be used as a weapon.' She sighed as she looked up to the top of the pole she was tied to then at her surroundings again trying to come up with a plan of some sort to escape but her thoughts kept drifting back to Yani.
"Please forgive me." Those words kept haunting her. 'How could he do this after what I did for him?' She asked herself several times but came up with the same answer each time. 'Because he is your enemy!' Her heart refused to accept that as the answer. 'There was more to it. There had to be!' She could still invision his soft warm eyes when she closed hers. Silent tears rolled freely down her face and landed on her chest. She hung her head and sobbed lightly hoping no one could hear her but she knew that most youkai would be able to. It was a well known fact that besides physical strength, all of the youkais' senses where stronger then humans. 'How had humans survived this long? It had to be because of sheer numbers. There is no other explanation for it.' She felt like dying. Because of her the human race would have to concede defeat and become enslaved to their mortal enemy. It was all her fault. She prayed that the human negotiators would not concede and would let her be sacrificed instead. Her family would hold its honor then reguardless of her foolishness.
More tears fell as a state of loss and depression sank into her very soul. If she managed to survive this ordeal how could she over come the shame of what she did to her family name. She was sure they were already being chastised with dishonor by now and all because of her fine sensibilities for humanity. Again she began to pray silently that the negotiators would deny any bargans and just let her be executed like any other soldier would have been. But she knew that was a futile thought. Mikos were in short demand and cherished among her people.
She was so caught up in her self pity that she didn't notice the stronger breeze that blew against her when the tent flap was lifted then closed. A dark figure walked cautiously toward her sobbing form. Her spiritual senses were so impaired by her emotions she didn't even feel him as he kneeled down next to her. Gently he pushed the hair away from her face as he leaned forward to hug her to comfort her. She leaned into his shoulder accepting his arms around her. Some how she knew eventually he would show up wanting to settle his guilt.
"Why?" She said between sobs.
"I--I had to. You would have died." He hugged her tighter. "If you are thinking 'that can't be all' you are correct. There are many reasons I could come up with why--" As usual she interrupted him.
"Reasons? You mean excuses for betraying me!" She hissed trying to wrench out of his hold but failed because of the pole she was tied to. Anger filled her heart with a fierceness she never knew existed within her. She began to yank as hard as she could on the pole determined to move away from him. She pulled so hard she managed to move the pole 3 inches. Yani became frantic believing she was going to bring the tent down on them. With as much strength as he dared, he used one hand to pull the pole back into place and the other in an attempt to hold her still. This only angered her more and she struggled harder against her restraints despite his efforts to control her and once again pulled the pole out of place. A low growl from frustration emitted from his chest and he pulled the pole back into place.
"Woman you are trying my patience. Stop this foolishness before you bring the tent down and hurt yourself." He positioned a knee on either side of her to hold her still.
"What do you care?" She tried to scream but he had her face buried in his chest to keep her voice down.
"More then you seem to know." He replied calmly.
"Now you are trying to tell me that you betrayed me to protect me?" She said harshly.
"In part yes, but not completely. If you feel---" She would have struck him if she could. Anger and frustration were wearing her down but she would not give up and once again she interrupted him.
"How would you know how I feel? You know nothing of me. I saved you from those warriors because what they did was wrong. I made the choice to bring you all the way back to your comrades because it was the right thing. It was the honorable and noble thing to do. I was willing to sacrifice myself to save you but you wouldn't even let me have the honor of dying in battle. I will not stay here and let you bastards use me to manipulate my people into submission. I would die first attempting to escape." Tears flowed down her face again as she released her frustration on him. She slumped into him welcoming his warm embrace.
"I know more than you think. I can smell your fear, your frustration and even your anger. But if you think you are here because we want to use you as a pawn to make your race submit to our will you are very much wrong. You were tied up like this to keep you from harming any of us. Your power is emence and we can all feel it. We fear you and your kind more then any warrior in your army. Why you ask? Because you and those like you can negate our very existance with a mere touch of a finger.
Your selfless act of bravado gave us a window of oportunity that we could not ignore. We needed you---" She looked up at him with her mouth open to interrupt him again but he quickly placed a hand over her mouth to stop her. Her eyes grew wide with shock as he stared into them. "Please trust me, I won't allow anything to happen to you. Listen with an open heart to what I am saying." His eyes held so much sincerity her heart wanted to believe him. She knodded that she understood but was unable to pull her gaze away from his beautiful violet eyes. Slowly he removed his hand from her mouth before he continued.
"We needed you so they would--- so your commanders would meet with us. It is us who are at a point of submission but we will not be defeated without a fight. We had given up all hope that we could ever survive this battle. I believe they knew this and that is why they have refused to meet and negotiate with us. In a last attempt to make them meet with us a youkai was sent to retrieve something or someone precious to the humans. I followed him believing that two of us would have a better chance.
We were discovered by those warriors and they mortally injured Domi. I pleaded with them to let me attend his injuries but they would have no part of it. Their hearts were tainted by the lust of glory. After they finished killing Domi they turned their blood lust on me. I truely believed that I would soon join Domi in hell until a beautiful angel saved me from a most certain doom." His smile and his endearing ending made her blush. She shivered slightley from either the cold or nervousness but none the less he scooted closer and wrapped his cloak around her as much as he could. He wanted to cherish her in his arms for eternity but knew that it would come to an end sooner or later. She would have to leave and the war would continue unless some agreement could be reached.
His mind kept telling him that what he felt was nothing more then his male lumbeado over acting to the fair heroin that saved his life. At the same time his heart told him something different. His heart yearned for his love to be returned by her. His desires could be due to his animal instincts but his heart told him it was more then lust. He sighed lightly as he cuddled her closer. He heard her sigh and was pleased that perhaps the little comfort he could give would help calm her.
"You aren't afraid of me?" She looked up into his surprised face. "I thought that perhaps since you had risked your life for me then you would not try to destroy me. Was I wrong?" The question in his eyes made her smile.
"No I could not harm you. Yani is your name correct?" She asked whistfully.
"As a matter of fact yes. Why do you ask?" He leaned back with confussion on his face.
"You never told me your name." She giggled quietly. "You can let me go now." He searched her eyes wanting with all his heart to believe in her. He had followed his heart once that day and it led him to her now he questioned whether he should follow it again. As if reading his mind she continued. "You asked me to trust you. Now I am asking you to trust me. If there is anything in my power to help your people then I will do it." Her innocent smile melted any doubt that could have existed with in his soul. Without another thought he used his claws and gently cut the ropes that held her to the pole. He helped her to her feet but her legs were still wably from setting on them for so long. She stumbled forward but was caught in his strong arms and held firmly against his chest. He lowered his head and deeply breathed in her scent. It was intoxicating to him for some strange reason and he never wanted to let her go. He wanted to hold her and protect her from all evil that was in the world. A shiver from her brought him out of his thoughts and he looked down at her.
"Are you cold?" He asked calmly hoping she hadn't noticed his lack of concentration. She knodded shyly with her face down unable to look into his beautiful face for fear of loosing herself in his eyes. Carefully he used one hand to pull his cloak from his back and draped it over her shoulders then wrapped his arms securely around her using his own body heat to help her warm up. She sighed and snuggled into his chest more welcoming the warmth he offered. This only encouraged him to feel more protective. He rested his chin on top of her head in complete bliss wishing this would never end. But as is the way of war they were interrupted when a herold called to him from outside the tent.
"LEE-CHAN!" The young teenaged girl almost jumped out of her skin from her brother's loud voice behind her. He laughed histerically and pointed at her reddened face. "Don't tell me 'hehehehe' they lived 'hehehe' happily ever after! HAHAHAHAHA!" He continued to laugh as others with in hearing distance who also had heard him began to laugh at her expense. "Mom said come home for supper." He giggled continually.
"You are such an ass Choa!" Lee fumed and slamed the book closed. "I will read to you another time." The three little girls sighed disappointed but waved good bye and promised to meet her tomorrow to hear the rest of her story. "I should tell mother what you did. That was unforgivable Choa!" Her face still red Lee began to walk back toward the street that would lead her home. Her brother relentlessly poked fun at her as they walked avoiding all her attempts to slap him. Unknown to them a dark figure was in the shaded branches above and had been listening in on the girl's story telling as well. It was one of her favorite tales of the past and coming here to the park to listen to Lee read to any that would listen was her only way to hear such stories. In her world these soft emotional stories were concidered weak and useless.
She could not afford for any of her co-workers to see her enjoying this sort of thing. The word would get out that she was week and she would be waisting alot of time with challenges. Of course there were few who would use it against her but still some would try. Although she hated confrontation a good scuffle might prove to be useful in putting certain advisaries back in their place and confirm her foot hold as one of the top operatives in the clan. But then again it would draw the attention of the master and that is not something she wanted right now. For months she had been avoiding contact with him as much as possible. She would make up excuses not to attend dinner or stay after turning in the reports on her assignments. This next meeting however didn't feel right for some reason. His voice seemed different and he made hints about certain activities that the two of them used to enjoy together. That was before Kagura and Kanna. No matter she would endure this encounter just as she had all others in the past year and make an excuse to leave before he was able to use her emotions against her. 'Emotions!' She shook her head pitifully. Why did Kami give her emotions. Such a weak part of her soul.