Disclaimer: "Inuyasha" is the sole property of Rumiko Takahashi, and I am only an avid fan. However, after following the series and rewatching, in addition to borrowing its characters, I have created my own characters and scenarios. After all, that is what fanfiction is all about. We writers appreciate the opportunity.
Author's Notes: Ohayou, minna-san! This an extension of "Forbidden" a story focusing on Ainoko Inu Hime, the second child of Sessh/Kik. A few of my readers reached to inquire if I would write this story and I have decided to give it a shot. The time is set in the later years of Kagome's era, and the demon realm is now separate from the human's; I will explain later in the story how that came to be. Please read, hopefully, enjoy and leave a review.
Chapter 1: Progeny
Winter's end was approaching; however, the blustery weather stubbornly refused to give way to the arrival of spring, at least not without a fight. Although fierce winds whipped furiously through the mountain range and snowcapped peaks glittered in the sunlight, down in the valley, the first Alpine buds burst from the soil. The change of seasons in the Western Lands was a beautiful yet contrasting sight to behold.
At the tallest peak of the of the Daisetsu, a young woman stood overlooking the west side of the mountain. Gusts of wind whipped around her slender figure, tugging violently at the sleeves and hem of her elegant kimono, demanding recognition of its presence, strength, and mastery over the domain. Although the figure acknowledged this, she held her own against the elements. After all, she was born here - this was her home, and she was quite familiar with the extreme, ever-changing climate.
An abundance of silver hair blew back from an angelic face; soft tendrils cascaded down a proud back before flowing behind the figure like an exotic fan. The arctic air tinged pale cheeks a rosy hue and golden eyes, cold as glacials, scanned the Sugatami Pond in the valley below. Unlike her mother, the young woman did not possess the gift of sight; therefore, if there was a vision revealed in the watery depths, she was unable to read it.
"Where is she?" Ainoko Inu Hime grumbled in an unladylike manner, yet stubbornly refused to turn around in search of the source of her frustration. "She is purposely making me wait, I just know it!"
As a descendant of the prestigious Inu Clan and the granddaughter of the Touga - the great dog demon, Ainoko was the considered an elite of the next youkai generation. Her father was a full-fledged youkai, but her mother was human. Nevertheless, the twenty-year-old experienced none of the insecurities of other half demons. After all, Ainoko's father was highly revered as well as, one of the most feared youkai in the demon realm.
'Sesshoumaru' - a daiyoukai of epic magnitude; a majestic canine with a phlegmatic demeanor, in both human and demon forms. He was Lord of the West and the acting execution martial for the youkai council.
Ainoko's father enforced the laws sanctioned by the council, thus earning him the title, 'Sessho no Shikkoukan,' (translation - assassination general). Demons, to avoid prosecution for crimes that warranted the death penalty, would flee to the outer realms or the deepest bowels of the earth. It was Sesshoumaru's duty to hunt down and execute them, both thoroughly and expeditiously. Be it rogue youkai or even wayward members of the council he served, once targeted, nothing swayed the daiyoukai from his mission.
The country's perimeters, as well as the stratospheric planes, were also under Sesshoumaru's jurisdiction, which he and his comrades guarded against the 'Iseijin' (alien) youkai. These creatures periodically attempted to breach the earth's atmosphere in pursuit of their favorite source of nourishment - humans. It was because of this duty that Ainoko's father spent weeks, sometimes months away from home.
The young half-demon frowned, thinking of Sesshoumaru. To her, he was the best of everything - father, youkai, councilman, assassin and she strived to prove herself a worthy daughter, despite her human genes. Although Ainoko understood his obligations and the reasons behind his extended absences, she missed him. It was no secret that young halfling idolized her father, but she had been raised to respect his duties and felt only slightly annoyed when he was away.
Sesshoumaru was a warrior; although he was fond of his children and human mate, as well as enjoyed the peacefulness of the Western Lands, the Inu daiyoukai could not resist the front line of a battlefield for long.
Soft footsteps sounded on the grassy knoll, alerting Ainoko of the arrival of the only full-blooded human living amidst a society of demons. 'Lady Kikyou' - Sesshoumaru's mate, mistress of the West and mother to Ainoko and Awasumaru.
With narrowed eyes, Ainoko watched her mother's stately arrival. The Lady of the West appeared unaffected by the frigid winds, thanks to an extension of Sesshoumaru's fluffy boa wrapped around her slender figure, protecting her from the blistering cold. Although a few inches shorter than her daughter, the woman walked with a regal bearing, that made her appear taller.
Kikyou was considered a stunning human, even by most demon standards. The woman possessed a beautiful, serene face, as well as intelligent and intense mahogany eyes that, although reserved, were capable of putting at ease anyone who encountered them.
Glossy black hair, dark as ravens wings, surrounded Kikyou's head. The silken tresses plaited in a single thick braid, which fell straight down her slender back and swished from side to side as she walked.
As her daughter had suspected, Kikyou's delay was deliberate. Ainoko had the same proclivities as her father. She was haughty, with an imperious attitude, but Kikyou had learned it was best not to cater her demands.
With each step her mother took, Ainoko ground her fangs in annoyance. "The woman is truly maddening," the hanyou muttered. The Lady of the West moved at her own pace and no one, not even Sesshoumaru himself, could make her do otherwise.
"I will never understand how father puts up with her," Ainoko thought to herself, as Kikyou finally joined her at the edge of the cliff. "Well?" the young hanyou spat.
"Well, what?" Kikyou inquired smoothly, looking perplexed while feigning ignorance. "Is something wrong, Ai-chan."
Golden orbs narrowed further. Ainoko hated that pet name; her father called her by given name, and everyone else addressed her by her title. Her mother was the only person who continued to treat her as a child. As she turned to look down on her maternal parent, Ainoko attempted a stern expression; however, she met a calm mahogany gaze which held neither fear nor forthcoming apology, only a hint of amusement.
Kikyou smiled inwardly, yet met Ainoko's stare head-on. The endearment was not appreciated, however, with her child entering adulthood, the former Miko refused to let go of the affectionate nickname.
Looking over at Ainoko, Kikyou took in the abundance of silver hair framing a heart-shaped face. A single braid wreathed her head, like a crown, with the rest flowing down her back, falling well past her knees. She was a beautiful young youkai, but spoiled, with a fierce temper and prone to contemptuous remarks. Ainoko not only looked like her father, but they had similar characteristics.
Since taking her first steps, Ainoko had renounced her human side. From an early age, the child had shown partiality for her demon ancestry. She preferred her youkai father over her human mother and had followed Sesshoumaru around, trying to emulate him in every way. Ainoko had inherited nearly every trait of her proud papa Inu Daiyoukai; mostly the unfavorable ones. However, Kikyou believed there was more depth to her daughter.
Sesshoumaru seemed oblivious to his daughter's shortcomings because he could never see them in himself. It had taken a human child named Rin, Awasumaru's birth and trials for the daiyoukai to understand (just a little) about feelings and emotions and now, Ainoko's time had come.
Awasumaru was the opposite of his father and sister, sharing the same temperament as his mother. Kikyou and Sesshoumaru's firstborn was jovial and carefree, but also tenacious and shrewd. As he and his mother had lived amongst humans, they had both been subject to war, poverty, illness, even death and was mindful of such hardships. Ainoko had yet to deal with such issues, but that did not mean she should be ignorant of them.
According to a vision that had awakened the former Miko from slumber two nights ago, Ainoko would soon have a rude awakening. Kikyou foresaw an upcoming crisis that would challenge the child's outlook on the only life she had ever known, not to mention the blow to her pride as a demon.
"You requested I join you?" Kikyou asked, turning away from her daughter to look out over the valley.
"Only an hour ago!" Ainoko barked, sarcastically. "What took you so long?"
The only response was the lift of a delicate brow, as Kikyou kept her eyes trained on the scenery.
The silence confirmed no answer was forthcoming, and Ainoko sighed at the apparent dismissal. Her mother was most likely puttering around in her herbal gardens again. It was foolish to try to provoke a response. Not even her father, who was known for his strategic cunning, could incite a reaction from her mother once she chose to ignore him.
"Look there." Ainoko pointed down into the watery depths of the Sugatami Pond. "See that… the water is rippling in a strange pattern. Could that be a sign or maybe a message?"
Kikyou's eyes widened a fraction in surprise and then narrowed in speculation. Was it possible Ainoko had been trying to read the signs of nature? If so, it was the first time her daughter has shown any interest in anything related to her maternal parent, preferring instead to learn swordplay, affairs of the Council and war strategies with her father.
"Very perceptive," Kikyou finally said, calming her expression. Had Ainoko somehow sensed that the message revealed in the pond below was significant to her future? "You are right," the former Miko said, watching her daughter closely. "It is a sign."
"It is?" Ainoko's head whipped around. "Well… what is it?" she asked excitedly. "What does it mean?"
Closing her eyes, Kikyou contemplated an answer. She would have to tread lightly; although bestowed with the gift of sight, It did not mean she could abuse the gift left to her by Yoippari-dono. According to the old owl, Kikyou's role was only to interpret the signs. Once ordained, she could not do or say anything to change its course. It was a forbidden act for someone with her abilities. Only the affected parties could alter events. Even though it involved her child, the former Miko was limited to what she could disclose.
"Mother!" Ainoko urged with a pout.
Roused from her thoughts, Kikyou began cautiously, "I dreamed of an uprising." Her voice a mere whisper as she recalled the vision. "A regional war; one that will make enemies of friends and break long-time allegiances. It is a war that will challenge the very core of the Demon Council, pitting members against each other as they strive to find a solution to the chaos."
The Lady of the West paused, allowing Ainoko time to interpret her words, but she was also preparing herself for imparting the most crucial element. Usually, this was not a problem, but Ainoko was her child - her own flesh and blood. Even though she wanted to protect her, Kikyou realized the importance and necessity of the events that were about to take place.
"That is the vision and now..." Kikyou looked down into the waters and proceeded, "... the message in the pond below reveals time and location of the revolt."
"See how the ripples move across the water's natural flow," the Lady of the West asked her daughter and continued as she responded with a nod. "Each ripple indicates a month."
"Four," Ainoko stated in a low voice. "That means the uprising is four months away."
"Yes," Kikyou said. "The strength of the current determines the location; a weak current represents distance, a strong current - nearby."
"So... is this a strong current?" the halfling asked, her golden orbs glued to waters below.
"Yes," Kikyou answered again and sighed. "The water overlaps and breaks through the natural current. Based on the intensity, it appears the uprising will reach the Western Lands."
"What?" Ainoko turned to her mother. "Are you... are you serious?"
"Would I lie?"
"You never lie, but that is not the issue here is it?" Ainoko snapped. "This is important information, mother; there is no time to be blase. Does father know? I demand that you contact him this instant."
"He does not, and I will ask that you mind your tone, young lady," Kikyou spoke with deceptive calm, but the undercurrents warned the young demon to she was overstepping her bounds.
Realizing she had just talked down to her mother, Ainoko turned and murmured something of an apology, and then bowed to put the icing on the cake. In hanyou's opinion, the woman was too nonchalant about the news of an uprising. The Western Lands was part of her demon ancestry so she would not expect her mother, a human, to understand. Ainoko was born here and considered herself the surrogate heir to her father's estate. Especially, since her brother, the true heir, had no interest in their legacy.
"Now... to answer your question," Kikyou began, "My vision appeared only two nights ago; your father had departed long before. Currently, he is in the outer realm and cut off from our mental link. Therefore, I am unable to reach him at this time."
"Who knows how long he will be gone," Ainoko cried, and her hand automatically reached for the sword on her hip. Out of habit, she caressed the hilt of the blade to calm herself. "We have to get a message to him, mother. He has to return immediately. With father here, no one will dare set foot in the west."
"That is not true," Kikyou said softly. Although she loved that father and daughter shared a closeness, Ainoko had to stop thinking of Sesshoumaru as some God. "You do your father an injustice," Kikyou began. "He has opposed many worthy opponents, all skilled and powerful. It is the hard-won battles that have significance for him."
"This may surprise you, Ai-chan, but not everyone is in awe of the Lord of the West," Kikyou went on to say. "Nor would your father want it that way. There are others ready and willing to challenge him, whether they are successful or not."
"That may be true, but the result would be the same," Ainoko sniffed, dismissing the idea her father would lose. There was no youkai stronger than her Sesshoumaru. "Anyway, what do you plan to do, mother? Will you contact the council? They can dispatch a small army for us when the time comes."
The child had a one track mind thought Kikyou, as she looked up at her second born in exasperation. "The West is not the only place that will need protection, Ainoko," she informed her child. "Not only the west but the southern realm, as well as the Tora Domain and the Dragon's Lair will suffer the same fate. How can you even think to request a personal army?"
"Father is a member of the council!" Ainoko snapped.
"He is not the only member," Kikyou stated reasonably. "Nor is he the only member with a family. Just once, child, think of someone other than yourself."
Not only did that comment hurt, but Ainoko was also taken aback by her mother's tone. Kikyou maintained her usual monotone; however, the half-demon detected a hint of anger.
"I want to protect my home." Ainoko bared a fang. "Is that unreasonable?" she asked. "The West is my legacy. Awasumaru is clearly not interested. With father away, I am next in line to protect our home. Maybe you can't understand, mother, since humans have no such attachments."
Kikyou turned to her daughter; she squared her shoulders, raised her head and looked her directly in the eye. "What would you know of humans?" the former Miko asked pointedly.
The question caught Ainoko unawares, and she faltered, staring wide-eyed, her mind racing to form a rebuttal.
"Fine," Kikyou began in a tone that could freeze the artic a second time over. "Tomorrow I will go to council and request an audience with Jadoku-dono."
"So... save your precious home," Kikyou stated and continued. "Save your precious lands with little regard for the lives of those fighting for your precious legacy."
"You're blowing this way out of proportion, mother," the half-demon snapped. "Once the Western Lands are secure, I don't mind assisting the others."
Kikyou stood speechless. Was this really her child, she thought. Was there a speck of humanity within her? It was a known fact that Ainoko had no regard for humans and could never understand why her brother had chosen them over his demon heritage. But it also seemed the girl had no concern for fellow youkai either.
"This is my fault," Kikyou sighed and pressed shaky fingers to her temple. Sesshoumaru had spoiled his daughter; he had trained her in swordplay, battle stratagems and taught her to use her youkai powers, but Ainoko knew nothing of feelings, altruism or compassion. And for that, she was responsible.
Awasumaru had grown up around humans. Whatever Kikyou lacked to teach her son, the boy had picked up by interacting with others, and although they now lived in different realms, mother and son still shared a strong bond. Ainoko and she, on the other hand, had never had a close relationship. Her daughter resented the fact that her mother was human, meaning it was Kikyou's fault that she was not a full-fledged youkai.
"I'm glad you realize that," Ainoko sniffed. The Lady of the West had unknowingly spoken her thoughts aloud. "Now, if I were a full demon then... Owww!"
Kikyou turned to her daughter and placed a hand on her shoulder. Their eyes met briefly; gold in surprise and mahogany filled with intent. Suddenly, there was a flash, as the hanyou felt a jolt of energy.
"Mind not only your tone but also your words, child," Kikyou stated, no longer able to hide her anger. She lowered her hand with remnants of her purification powers still crackling. "I am your mother regardless of how you feel about it; please respect that, if nothing else." With that said, Kiyou turned and headed back to the mansion.
Ainoko stood in shock, as she watched her mother's exit. Her shoulder was tingling from the power, and her arm rendered useless as it hung limply at her side.
"What the hell was that?" the young halfling whispered. She attempted to roll her shoulder to test mobility. "What did you just do, mother?!" She shouted after Kikyou's departing figure. "I can't move my arm; how long will this last?"
"Hopefully long enough for you to learn some manners," Kikyou murmured, without looking back or breaking stride.
XXXXX
"Gar-san... Gar-san! Wake up, your uncle's coming!"
The body sprawled across the bed mumbled something unintelligible and then quieted again.
"I said get up!" Mujina yelled and then proceeded to pound on his masters back with his small fist. "Shugoryuu-sama is here, and he wants to see you. "Like - now, as in right now!" the badger youkai added for emphasis.
Finally, the body moved. Garyou, the future heir to the 'Dragon's Lair,' sat up groggily and yawned. He blinked a few times, stretched his arms wide and then collapsed back on the bed.
"Get-up!"
"I'm up already," Garyou jerked upright. With eyes closed, he ran a hand through his tousled mane of jet black hair. "I'm up, Mujina," the dragon sighed and jiggled a finger in his ear. "Sheesh... you're damned loud this morning."
"This afternoon," the badger corrected, folding his short arms in exasperation. "This is what happens when you're out carousing all night."
"Aww... you're just jealous." Garyou huffed, as he had to put a lot of effort in standing before reaching his goal. He had yet to open his eyes, and thought it unusual that Mujina hadn't responded to his taunt. "Where's my uncle and why is he calling unannounced?"
"I'm right here! And why the hell do I need to announce my presence in my own home?"
Shugoryuu stood in the doorway of his nephew's room, his dark eyes assessing the heir to his estate. The boy was a disgrace; he was a lazy good-for-nothing, but he was his deceased sister's only child, and he promised her on her deathbed that he would look after the boy.
"Greetings, oji-sama!" Garyou staggered forward. He opened his eyes, his crimson gaze fixed on his uncle and bowed deep, a bit dramatic. "And you are right; this is indeed your home, although you spend nearly no time here."
"I can't afford such luxuries, unlike some," the dragon lord stated. "What's with your hair?" Shugoryuu finally noticed the missing ponytail.
"Oh that," Garyou said dismissively, using his fingers to comb the tousled mop from his eyes. The back and sides cut low, at the nap of the neck and around the ears, shaping his head. "I'm a new age youkai; less hair is more manly these days." He looked meaningfully at his uncle's braid that extended to the back of his knees. "You should give it a try. Who knows; you might catch a mate. You're not getting any younger you know."
"You're the only one giving me gray hairs and don't concern yourself with my mating habits," Shugoryuu spat. "Make yourself presentable and get your ass to the main room in five," he ordered. "Mujina," he addressed the badger, and from the corner of his eyes saw the creature nod nervously. "Make sure it happens." He turned and abruptly left the room.
"That's 'make it happen,' uncle," Garyou shouted, and the shoji slammed in response. "His dialect is as old as he is," the dragon muttered and turned to his vassal. "You heard him, Mujina, make it hap..."
The haori and hakamas, slapping him in the face cut short Garyou's wisecrack.
"Who's jealous?" Mujina sneered, not forgetting the earlier remark.
"You're ungrateful!" the badger said and threw one shoe at his master and then the other. "Shugoryuu-sama takes you in, and this is how you repay him?"
"Shut up," Garyou said without malice. "And don't start with me. I did him a favor by coming here," he pouted, but all the while dressing in haste. "I don't owe him squat."
"Just hurry," the badger kept watching the clock. "Obviously, its important or your uncle wouldn't have come this early in the day."
That was true, thought Garyou, as he slid his feet into the soft-soled Jika-tabi's. His uncle usually arrived after dark and left promptly before dawn the next morning; therefore this pattern was unusual. Maybe something was going on at the council; he thought, as he tied the obi sash around his waist and headed for the door.
"Hair," Mujina said, pointing at his master's bedhead. "You've got less than two minutes."
Using his fingers, Garyou arranged his dark locks in a semblance of order, before turning to the badger. "Satisfied," he asked.
"Never," Mujina sniffed, "But, that'll do - for now."
"Slave driver," Garyou muttered and stepped into the hall.
As he hurried down the corridor, Garyou thought both interior and exterior design of the Dragon's Lair was plain. It looked more like a fortress with multiple buildings, all single story, some with high ceilings and sunken floors. The furnishings were sparse, but the decorative shoji's and fusuma's added style to the rooms. There was a vast courtyard, albeit barren, but the gardens were beautiful.
After his mother had died and Shugoryuu had come to claim him. Garyou had heard of his uncle but knew nothing about a heritage. The young dragon had no idea he was a descendant of a prestigious clan that was slowly dwindling in numbers. Based on the laws of the demon realm, any dying group became a target to have their titles revoked and lands confiscated. There were only two ways to prevent that from happening; the first was to fight a 'death duel' to any and all challengers and win, the second was to produce a legitimate blood heir and have them recognized by the council.
A few centuries ago, Shugoryuu had used Garyou as a means to secure the Ryukotsusei lands and maintain his position as dragon lord. By presenting his nephew to the council, Shugoryuu was able to avoid the death challenges.
"Coward," Garyou hissed, as he entered the drawing room to find his uncle and nemesis standing in front of the portrait of Ryukotsusei. However, Shugoyuu wasn't looking at his grandfather; instead, his eyes focused on the smaller caricature at the end of the mantle.
Ryukin-Hime, Garyou's mother, and Shugoryuu's older sister. Her likeness radiated from the frame; a radiant and refined youkai with flaxen hair and eyes; with her sharp mind, quick wit and sunny disposition, she was deemed the Golden Dragon by her peers.
"Oji-sama!" Garyou called out jovially, as he moved to join his uncle. His booming voice seemed to jolt Shugoryuu from his musings. As his uncle turned to him, the look in the dragon lords eyes stopped him dead in his tracks.
Shugoryuu's dark eyes seemed sad; however, once they turned on Garyou, they emitted the usual bitterness directed at his nephew.
"Get real; I just imagined it," Garyou thought to himself. "That cold-hearted bastard has no feelings!" he spat in his mind while approaching his uncle with a smile.
"So... what brings you here in broad daylight, oji-sama?" Garyou began. "What can I do for you today?"
"You can sit down, shut the hell up and listen," Shugoryuu snarled, as his hand indicated an empty seat. "I understand all three are beyond your comprehension, but let's give it a try anyway, okay."
He watched his nephew shrug and pullback a chair, settling his long, lanky body. Garyou was over six feet tall, with a lean yet muscular frame. The dragon resembled his great-grandfather, Ryukotsetsusei, too much for the dragon lord's liking.
His uncle's voice was dripping with sarcasm, thought Garyou, which indicated that the upcoming conversation was indeed of a serious matter. In the young dragon's mind that meant it was either of three things - dealings with the Dragon's Lair, issues with the council or the future dragon lord lacking interest and leadership. Whatever the situation, it was a surety that Shugoryuu would get straight to the point; it was the only trait Garyou had found admirable about his uncle. The youkai did not waste time with needless conversation.
"I have word of an uprising," Shugoryuu began, as he took a seat opposite of his nephew. "Many are rebelling against new council laws; they think we're getting soft, that our focus is no longer exercising our powers over humans."
"I've always wondered," Garyou began, leaning back in his chair with his arms folded. "What, exactly, is the objective of the council?"
"If you'd stop lazing around to attend a meeting or two, you'd already know, ' Shoguyruu snapped, leaning forward in his seat.
"Okay, okay, " the young youkai waved his hand, dismissing the comment. "Let's hear more about this uprising."
The demon lord sighed and leaned back. Why did he always feel as if he was beating his head against a wall with this kid? Garyou despised him, although he had no idea why. It bothered Shugoryuu, but it would not deter him from what mattered. His only care, his only desire was to fulfill Ryukin's wish.
"We're talking war, Garyou," the dragon lord said tiredly. "Radicals working from outside, as well as within the council. It's happened before," he continued on a somber note. "There was a failed coup a few centuries ago. A prominent leaders son was the culprit. It wasn't a happy ending."
There was a long pause, as Garyou absorbed the information. It was vague at most, but he could only assume his uncle gave serious consideration to the data based on its source.
"Where 'd you get the intel?' Garyou asked. He tried to remain aloof but found his curious nature getting the better of him.
"I have my resources," Shugoryuu stated, not missing the spark of interest in his nephew's eyes.
"A reliable source?"
"Let's see," the dragon lord leaned back and assumed a thinking pose. "What makes a reliable source?"
"One that has nothing to gain, but everything to lose," the two stated in unison.
"Good... good," Shugoryuu nodded. His nephew was showing some potential. Garyou may act the fool, especially with him, but intellect was a trait that refused obscurity. "My source is reliable," he assured Garyou. "Although I was surprised they chose to share the intel with me."
"Oh... why is that?" Garyou asked. This mysterious source was becoming more intriguing.
"Not sure," Shugoryuu murmured. He stroked his chin and recalled the summons received from the Lady of the West. He had planned to ignore it until Jadoku, Head Councilman, request that he hear what the woman had to say.
They met Sesshoumaru's mate in secret; Shugoryuu, Jadoku, Pyuuma from the Tiger Domain - acting in place of her mate, Mouko, Raion from the Southernlands all responded to the former Miko's call.
"Well... that's not what's important right now," Shugoryuu snapped out of his reverie. "It seems the Dragon's Lair may become a battlefront and I want to try to prevent that from happening."
The light in Garyou's eyes dimmed. Once again, this was about preserving his lands and title. "Here we go again," the young dragon said in annoyance. "We're right back to square one," he spat. "Saving your precious heritage and avoiding another battle; those are the only thing you care about!"
Shugoryuu moved so fast; it barely registered in Garyou's mind. The table dividing them was tossed to the side as if it weighed no more than a feather the young dragon found himself lifted from his seat and bodily slammed into the wall behind him.
Held up by the collar of his haori, Garyou looked up to see his uncle's dark eyes turned crimson in his anger and semi-mutated state. His hands became claws, and fangs were more pronounced and elongated.
"What heritage?" Shugoryuu hissed, as his gripped tightened on his nephew's collar. He pulled Garyou forward and then slammed him again into the wall. Watching the blood trickle from the side of Garyou's mouth, the dragon lord produced a sinister smile. "This," he said, meaning the Dragon's Lair, "has never been and will never be my heritage. I'm just the custodian, and it's getting pretty damned tiring." With that said he let go of his nephew and walked away as he crumpled to the floor.
XXXXX
Ainoko stood in front of the mirror wearing only a yumoji and breast binds, examining her injured shoulder. There was no bruise, but it still tingled, and it hurt like hell each time she tried to lift her arm.
"What did she do to me, Idzuna?" Ainoko asked the fox youkai that ran the household estate and Kikyou's personal attendant. "We were finally having a decent conversation and... out of nowhere she struck me... me!" She turned to the kitsune, her eyes wide in disbelief and pointing to self. "It felt like a bolt of lightning, or... at least how I think a bolt of lightning would feel." Ainoko gingerly eased her arm into the sleeve of the shift the kitsune held. "Tsk! Violent woman!" she hissed.
Idzuna never answered, nor was it expected. As usual, the young mistress was venting, which was typical of Ainoko Inu Hime. A beautiful half-demon thought Idzuna, but rude and obnoxious. Not only was the young miss friendless, but the staff at the manor also made considerable efforts to stay out of her way.
Before Kikyou came to reside here, Sesshoumaru had ignored his staff. The former head matron, Yoippari-dono, was the only one who had chosen and interacted with the workers. It was Kikyou's advice to the Lord of the manor that he needed to acknowledge those working for him. Although there wasn't a significant change, Sesshoumaru could, at least, identify his staff and treated them reasonably well. He was self-sufficient and rarely if ever, utilized his workers for personal requests. Ainoko, on the other hand, treated everyone with disdain and was quick to deliver an infamous tongue lashing. It was these traits, and a few others, that the young youkai was a recluse.
Unable to socialize with others, the best tutors were brought in and frequently changed, as not many could deal with Ainoko's superior antics. Many knew of her, but associates were few and friends - nil. Even the sick and aging Jaken, Sesshoumaru's vassal, gave the young woman a wide berth.
When Sesshoumaru was home, he spent a lot of time with his daughter, and Ainoko was on her best behavior. Although still uncomfortable with displaying affection, the daiyoukai was not entirely aloof. He indulged his child with stories of battles, training and competitive games of shogi.
Idzuna realized the reason that Sesshoumaru had put more effort into bonding with his second child; however, the kitsune also knew that same reason had hindered Kikyou's disciplining. However, it seemed that was about to change.
"Better late than never," thought Idzuna, as she picked up the discarded kimono and tossed it over her arm.
Nearly everyone in the West shared the kitsune's opinion. What had occurred between mother and daughter today was long overdue, and applause to Kikyou for finally putting her foot down.
"Just wait until father gets home," Ainoko grunted, still upset "He shall set her..."
"Is there anything else I can help you with, young mistress?" Idzuna interrupted the tirade, her expression cordial.
"What?" Ainoko turned to the fox youkai, taking in her shoulder-length flaming red hair and intense green eyes. "Ah, no... no, that will be all." She waved a hand in dismissal.
Idzuna bowed and made a move for the door.
"Wait, Idzuna," Ainoko's voice held a conspiring note, and the kitsune stiffened. "You've known my mother a long time, haven't you?"
"Yes," the kitsune answered with caution. "I have."
Ainoko sidled next to the Idzuna, looking down from her superior height. It was an intimidation tactic she usually used on female youkai and males of smaller stature.
"That power she used today, have you seen it before, do you know what it is?" she asked. At Idzuna's silence, Ainoko continued to probe. "I'm not too sure, but I could have sworn I saw a white... bluish light and then felt a sharp sensation. How did mother acquire such power? How long has she had it and how is it I didn't know about it?"
Idzuna thought carefully before answering. The kitsune was not sure of the specifics, but she knew that after Kikyou's return to the Western Lands, she has never stepped foot in the human realm, not once, not even to visit Awasumaru. Under Sesshoumaru's protection and her acceptance into demon society, there was no reason for Kikyou to use her purification powers. With a sigh, Idzuna looked up; her green eyes meeting the gold of her youkai mistress and answered.
"I have seen that power before; I don't know what it is, but I know what it does," Idzuna nodded in the direction of Ainoko's shoulder. "The first time I witnessed Lady Kikyou's powers was right here in this house, she protected me with it. That was before Awasumaru was born. How she came to possess such an ability, I do not know. And the only reason I can think that you don't know about it... is that you've never asked."
Ainoko's head snapped back as though she'd been slapped. She stared wide-eyed at the kitsune and was torn between throwing a fit at Idzuna's blatant insubordination or analyzing the information received. Calming herself, she chose the latter.
"You may go," Ainoko informed the kitsune, who bowed for the second time, moved around her mistress and closed the door with a snap.
"Someone's full of themselves," Ainoko sniffed, meaning Idzuna.
Sitting on the side of her bed, she leaned back, cradling the limp arm in her lap. She sat quietly for some time, mulling over the events of the day; the omen, the argument with her mother and an unexpected power that left her, a youkai, incapacitated. As she drifted off to sleep, for the first time in a long while, it was Kikyou, not Sesshoumaru, who dominated Ainoko's thoughts.
XXXXX
A temple - hidden deep in the woods, shrouded in mystery. A Torii engraved with a pagan goddess and a pagoda that seemed to reach the sky. Priests, monks, worshippers - all wiped out in one night.
A fire raged, and wisps of black smoke billowed and whirled into the night sky. An acrid odor, one of burning flesh and hair, a coppery, metallic smell that permeated.
Suffocating - either from the smoke or the weight of being pinned down by something or someone. An attempt to move, but the weight would not budge. And then - an ear-splitting shriek...
Garyou shot straight up in bed, his eyes bulging and wide with fear. He coughed, grabbing at his bare chest and felt the pressure subside. It was a dream; no - he was reliving the tragedy that had brought him to the Dragon's Lair.
Breathing deep to calm himself, Garyou, threw the covers back; he stood, moved across the room and slid back the shoji. The young dragon walked out onto the engawa, sat on the edge and looked up at the indigo sky.
It looked the same as that night from long ago; endless, peaceful and splattered with a myriad of stars, but all that had changed in an instant.
"Aargh!" the dragon bellowed, stretched his arms overhead and reared back. Lying flat on the engawa with his long legs dangling, Garyou covered his face with his forearm, trying to blot out the images of his dream. But - it was useless.
"Damn you, Shugoryuu!" Garyou hissed and slammed a fist on the wooden planks. "You should have left me there."
Blaming and cursing his uncle was the magical cure. It worked wonders in easing his own guilt for that dreadful night nearly four hundred years ago. It was his mistake that started the events that led to the death of the person most precious to him. If not for his damned pride, Ryukin - his mother, would be alive today.
Garyou lowered his arm from his face, his keen ears detecting the flapping of giant wings. A moment later, sudden gusts of winds and high-level ki confirmed the arrival of Shugoryuu. The Dragon Lord flew directly overhead and landed a few buildings down, in the courtyard.
After their altercation earlier, Garyou had no concerns that his uncle would seek him out, nor did he care. The two were like oil and water; they would never see eye-to-eye, and their dislike was mutual. Garyou believed his uncle was a power-driven miser who hated the fact that his vagrant nephew was the legitimate heir to everything he held dear. The lands, the riches the title were all critical to Shugoryuu; those things meant more to the current Dragon Lord than his own sister.
Right then and there, Garyou came to a decision. On numerous occasions, even today, his uncle had invited him to attend the council meetings. Well, starting tomorrow, the young dragon decided to take the Dragon Lord up on his offer.
"You may have offered, uncle, but you really didn't expect me to follow through, did you?" Garyou whispered to the skies above. "It was all a part of your grand scheme, but the rules are about to change."
XXXXX
Idzuna strode through the manor, performing her nightly inspection. The kitsune went to every room on each level, extinguishing lights, securing doors and windows. As she crossed the foyer, heading to the servant quarters, the fox ran into Kikyou.
"How is she, Idzuna-chan?" The Lady of the West inquired of her daughter.
Watching Kikyou descending the stairs, the fox answered, "She'll live."
"It was just a small jolt," Kikyou muttered, as she reached the bottom "It was upsetting, hearing Ainoko talk that way. I guess I lost it for a moment."
"Hey," Idzuna began soothingly. "You don't have to justify your actions to me, my lady. Personally, I think you did the right thing."
"I did... and the logical part of me knows that," Kikyou said, as she followed the kitsune. "I just wish I would have taken disciplinary measures sooner."
"When you gave birth, and Sesshoumaru discovered it was a girl, he was expecting another Rin," Idzuna said, as the two walked down the corridor together. "I bright, nature-loving child with a sweet smile."
"Instead, I gave birth to a miniature Sesshoumaru," Kikyou piped in. "She looked like him, had adopted his ways, and so he raised her in the same manner that he was raised. And I allowed it, knowing he had missed the earlier years with Awasumaru."
"And Juun-san," Idzuna remembered Kikyou's foster child. "Back then, our Lord was so distant with the children that I feel he has tried to make up for it by devoting more time to the young miss."
"He will never admit it, but their deaths were hard on him," Kikyou explained. "According to Awasumaru, until the Genroku earthquake destroyed the graves, he visited now and then; in secret, of course."
"Of course," Idzuna smiled wistfully, recalling the time when the Western Lands became a home for the first time in many centuries. As they entered Idzuna's suite and closed the door; Kikyou went to sit by the hearth and Idzuna peered into her son, Tenko's room, before joining her mistress.
"He's asleep," she informed Kikyou and took a seat.
"He reminds me so much of Shippou," the Lady of the West said.
"In more ways than one," the kitsune responded. "That little fox cub is a mischievous prankster, just like his father," said Idzuna and smiled as Kikyou put a hand up to smother a laugh.
"Will you visit the council tomorrow?" Idzuna asked, changing the subject.
"Yes." The smile left the former Miko's face. "I've already met with Jadoku and the other's, and we all agreed that to make things official, I should present my information to the council."
"What about Ainoko?"
"I shall have her accompany me," Kikyou said, her dark eyes calculating.
"Is that wise?" Idzuna looked dubious.
Kikyou mulled the question over in her mind before she spoke. "Initially, I would have said no, but..." the former Miko paused. "But, the more I think about it, taking Ai-chan along just might be what she needs."
"Think about it," Kikyou reasoned, in response to Idzuna's expression. "The council is filled with future members, meaning the next generation of the most elite youkai. Some are spoiled and snotty, same as Ai-chan, relying on wealth and position and some are hardworking and dedicated. The first will give my daughter a taste of her own medicine, and the latter may influence and inspire her."
The kitsune's eyebrows rose on that statement, and she nodded in agreement.
"Who knows?" Kikyou questioned, with a delicate shrug. "Either way, Ai-chan will need supporters, comrades as well as friends. She cannot obtain those connections by secluding herself here in the Western Lands."
"Four months," Idzuna sighed. "Ainoko will need to see the error of her ways, correct them, turn over a new leaf and gain allies; that's a lot to accomplish within that short timeframe. Also, we can't forget Sesshoumaru," the kitsune reminded her mistress.
"He is the least of my worries at this moment," Kikyou stated. "As I have heard Awasumaru say, 'we shall cross that bridge once we reach it.'"
To be continued...