Disclaimer: Don't own Inuyasha or related characters they belong to the respective owners. OC's are mine.

Last time…

Returning to the Western Palace, home of the Inuyokai Tribe, Sesshomaru attends a meeting with his father. There they removed the corrupt Regent with deadly force, and Inu no Taisho retook his throne. Following the meeting Sesshomaru reveals to his parents the reason for his journey into the past. With coaxing and instruction they help him to organize some of his memories.

During the conversation with his parents Sesshomaru's servant Jaken entered unannounced revealing an intruder was in the castle. Jaken's description of the intruder awakens Sesshomaru's memories, having the intruder brought to him reveals a shocking development. The intruder is none other than Higurashi Kagome, the reincarnated miko who'd vanished after disposing of the Jewel of Four Souls.

During a discussion with Inu no Taisho it is discovered that Kagome was ripped from existence. An elder later deduces that Kagome's miss worded wish allowed the Jewel to remove her from existence. She was partially saved by Sesshomaru's journey to the past, her continued existence is reliant on Sesshomaru and his fellow time travelers.

Meanwhile in the Eastern Wolf Tribe, Prince Koga has regained his memories due to the sudden appearance of an Inuyokai Hunter sent to discover his location. Due to his age Prince Koga can't fully understand what has happened, and is currently fearful of the fate of his parents.

Chapter Four: Learning and Opening Gambits

Eastern Wolf Tribe…

Koga sighed as he sat at the cave entrance. His father had returned from this hunt unscathed, perhaps the feelings of dread were unfounded. Yet he was still having strange nightmares, all of them filled with blood, dismemberment, and death. There was also a strange cold laugh which he couldn't seem to get out of his head.

He turned as a large wolf yokai sat next to him, it was his uncle, the tribe's beta, "So Koga, feeling better that your dad's back?"

Koga shook his head, "No…something's wrong. I keep seeing things, bad things."

The Beta frowned, "Come on Koga, you're too young to be a seer, plus you don't have that type of thing in your blood."

Koga frowned, "Uncle…what kind of yokai looks like a giant bird with a big wide mouth and a little person sprouting out of the top?"

The Beta blinked, "A Bird of Paradise? Where'd you see one of those?"

Koga looked at the ground, "I keep having this nightmare…one attacks mom, but no one is around to help…and…and it eats her."

The Beta placed a hand on Koga's head, "Don't you worry about some stupid Bird of Paradise. They have no reason to break the treaty, besides if they do Inu no Taisho will come kick their overgrown feathered butts."

Koga blinked, "Inu no Taisho?"

The Beta nodded, "He's the strongest yokai in this region. A long time ago there was a war between the different yokai races, the Inuyokai, our cousins, came out on top. They sliced up the region and gave territory to each species. We have to remain within our territory. We can only hunt in a neighboring territory if we have permission, and the Birds of Paradise wouldn't stand a chance against Inu no Taisho."

Koga frowned, "The mutts are our cousins?"

The Beta looked surprised, "What did you just say?"

Koga blinked, "I asked if they were really our cousins."

The Beta shook his head, "Not that, what did you call them?"

Koga looked thoughtful, "Mutts?"

The Beta glared, "Don't you ever let me hear you calling them that again. Next time you call them that in my presence, I don't care who your father is I'll tan your hide. Am I understood?"

Koga gulped, "Sorry uncle."

The Beta sighed, "Its fine. Just tell me where you heard that."

Koga shrugged, "In my dreams…I'm talking to a strange looking Inuyokai, one with dog ears on his head, and I call him mutt."

The Beta scratched his head, "That's some dream…um…maybe you should visit the elders on the northern mountains. They'll be able to make since of this. I'll go talk to your old man, if he agrees I'll take you with me when I take our offerings next week."

Koga nodded then watched his uncle get up and leave.

Western Palace…

Kagome sighed as she walked down one hallway after another. This castle was truthfully too large to be allowed, in fact from the exterior it appeared no larger than those she'd seen in her history books. Inside was a completely different matter all together, it seemed as though the castle was the approximate size of a small city, and could probably house around ten thousand people.

Finding an unlocked door she entered to find a young woman reading in what appeared to be another library, she'd found at least six so far. Sighing Kagome entered and closed the door. The young woman turned to Kagome and smiled, from her appearance the woman was another Inu and her clothing labeled her as a member of the noble caste, "Good day, can I help you find anything. I'm afraid the servant for this archive is busy delivering some documents to my father."

Kagome frowned, "Your father?"

The woman nodded, "He is one of Inu no Taisho's advisers. He handles the accounts for some of the lesser tribes."

Kagome sighed, "Sorry, I haven't even introduced myself. I'm Kagome."

The woman bowed, "Greetings Kagome, I'm known as Nemu."

Kagome examined the room, "So this is an archive…I thought it was just another library."

Nemu giggled, "There are quite a few, but this is actually one of the history archives. Here servant caste Inuyokai write and copy all our written history."

Kagome was surprised, "You record your history?"

Nemu nodded, "Yes, in fact I'm somewhat of a historian myself. I could teach you some if you want."

Kagome sat across from the Inuyokai, "I guess if I'm stuck here I should at least learn something about your people."

Nemu looked impressed as though she didn't think Kagome would accept the offer, "A miko willing to learn, I am quite impressed. Most of those like you would rather purify us, not try to understand."

Kagome smiled, "Well, let's just say…I'm not like your normal miko."

Nemu nodded, "I've heard, let's see where we should begin. Hmm…yes that would be the best place. Over two thousand years ago there was a war, between all the yokai tribes. To end the war the Inu no Taisho of the time rallied the canine tribes the Inuyokai, wolves, kitsune, coyote, as well as all lesser canine yokai. We triumphantly conquered all the other tribes, but in his wisdom he didn't maintain rule over all the lands."

Kagome frowned, "Why not?"

Nemu smiled, "Such a large kingdom would stretch our army too thin, we'd be overthrown in a matter of centuries. So he found a human mapmaker and acquired a map of the lands. He divided lands to the four strongest species, the Inuyokai, the dragons, the phoenix, and the insects. Each species was allowed to divide their region as they saw fit. Over the centuries that followed many species were driven into our lands by the more harsh rulers of the others. The dragons were tolerable or so I've heard, and the phoenixes have allowed anarchy to rule their lands, while the insects were too genocidal and either drove out or destroyed almost every tribe in their lands save for those strong enough to withstand their constant onslaughts."

Kagome nodded, "I kind of remember seeing those species."

Nemu looked intrigued, "You mean Lord Sesshomaru allowed Lord Inuyasha out of the Western Lands…that was most improper. Lord Inuyasha should never have strayed so far from home."

Kagome looked surprised, "Um…you do know Inuyasha's a hanyo right?"

Nemu nodded, "Exactly…oh…you don't know?"

Kagome frowned, "Know what?"

Nemu smiled, "Lord Inu no Taisho is Western Inuyokai, meaning he's from our tribe and a direct descendant of the founder. Lord Sesshomaru's mother is Eastern Inuyokai, her tribe hails from the Eastern Lands. Lord Inu no Taisho and her mating was arranged to reaffirm our ties to our sister tribe, it was also why Inu no Taisho was warring with the dragons, as they recently attacked the Eastern Tribe."

Kagome looked confused, "Is there a difference between Western and Eastern Inuyokai?"

Nemu nodded, "We are as different as night and day. We value compassion to all creatures and uphold the ideals of the warrior. The Eastern Tribe values purity and is governed by the ideals of gaining power. Lord Sesshomaru being descended from both tribes would have a blended outlook on the world. In regards to hanyo, warriors and hunters will have little to no issue with them, but we nobles are a little different. We Western Nobles only take issue that Lord Inuyasha is from an illicit union, while Eastern Nobles take issue with his impurities."

Kagome frowned, "It sounds like the same issue."

Nemu shook her head, "Not at all, we would never actually harm Lord Inuyasha, only prevent him from laying claim to the throne. The Eastern Nobles would no doubt wish to purge him. Only Inu no Taisho and his mate can stand against that. If the Lady were to take Inuyasha to her side, the Eastern Nobles would have to silence any objections."

Kagome blinked, "Why?"

Nemu smiled, "The Lady is Eastern Noble caste, and she is also their ruler. Their Taisho was killed during the war with the dragons, and her closest living kin is too young to take the Eastern Tribe's leadership. Thus the Lady is the regent ruler."

Kagome nodded, "Okay, I think I got all that. So back to that war, what did the first Inu no Taisho do here in the west?"

Nemu placed the book she was still holding down and pulled a rolled up map from a shelf, "It's easiest to show. He divided his lands among those who swore loyalty to him. They were given free reign over their territory, while all yokai who remained independent became wanderers."

Kagome looked over the map. She noticed a large black spot, "What's this?"

Nemu frowned, "That is the territory of the exterminators. They aren't as numerous as they once were; the death of their miko to an unknown yokai had a negative effect on their people. The immediate area around their village is forbidden, no tribe has ever made actual contact with them. We feel it's best to let them think we are just monstrous beasts."

Kagome thought of Sango and Kohaku, "Umm…would it be possible to get there?"

Nemu shook her head, "Doubtful, no self respecting Inuyokai will take you there, and if you tried going on your own…well there are several rather dangerous tribes between here and there."

Kagome sighed, "Maybe Sesshomaru will take me there."

Nemu frowned, "I highly doubt it. From what I've heard Lord Sesshomaru has made it clear you are not to be permitted to wander the land unaccompanied. It wouldn't due to anger him."

Kagome nodded, "You don't have to tell me that."

Sesshomaru's Office…

Sesshomaru watched as Princess Abi took a seat across from him, "Well Lord Sesshomaru, my mother and I were surprised to hear from the son of the great Inu no Taisho. What can my great tribe do to assist our slobbering neighbors?"

Sesshomaru glared, "This isn't a social call Abi this is business, pure and simple."

Abi straightened up at that, "If we're dropping titles then this is intriguing."

Sesshomaru huffed, "You've no doubt got news of my brother."

Abi nodded, "To think your father would fall so low as to rut in the dirt with a human."

Sesshomaru's eyes turned red and his growl signaled her to watch her tongue.

Abi sighed, "A cute little guy if you ask me. Saw him from a safe distance, those guards your old man put on him aren't anything to laugh at. Are they the best of the best, or do they merely enjoy killing defenseless demon birds."

Sesshomaru smirked, "My invitation to meet wasn't an invitation to wander the Western Lands at will. You are lucky you escaped Gen's Pack when you did, father was surprised when he sent one of your birds as evidence of your presence there."

Abi glared, "Well, if I had a half-breed sibling wouldn't you be curious how they looked?"

Sesshomaru quirked an eyebrow "If your mother ever slept with a human she'd eat him after words and also devour the infant immediately after birth."

Abi crossed her arms, "You have no faith in us do you."

Sesshomaru stood, "Actually, I do, and that is why I've decided to speak with you. I could have just kept this information to myself, but I felt charitable."

Abi looked unconvinced, "You…charitable…why do I have the sudden urge to go secure your brother safely in my lands until he's old enough to defend himself."

Sesshomaru narrowed his gaze, "Touch him and my father will be the least of your worries. Besides, I have no ill intents for Inuyasha. During my recent battles in the Eastern Lands, I was approached by a seer of sorts. I was given information of a great evil that has yet to make itself known. My father believed the warning and gave me the task of…preparing for it."

Abi huffed, "Like there's anything that could dare to harm any of us."

Sesshomaru sighed, "One of the portents the seer told me was the great bird demon becoming gravely ill. I assumed the great bird demon referred to your mother, and as such believe this evil will also be targeting your tribe as well."

Abi glared, "How would mother become ill, she is from the netherworld itself?"

Sesshomaru clasped his hands behind his back, "Face it Abi, your mother isn't the brightest daiyokai in the world. She doesn't stop to think before she eats something. Consider if she ate a member of my tribe…besides the fact we'd kill her for it…she'd become deathly ill from our poison."

Abi bowed her head, "Always told her that stupid eating habit would get her killed." Abi looked back up at Sesshomaru, "Okay, I'll handle this."

Sesshomaru picked up a dagger from his desk and handed it to Abi, "Actually my Princess, I thought of a more permanent solution. If your mother becomes as ill as to possibly be killed, you should do it as soon as possible, to ensure a passage way to the netherworld is never opened."

Abi stared at him blankly, "What?"

Sesshomaru glared, "As you said, your mother is from the netherworld. If she is killed her blood can create a passage to the netherworld. There are many things in the netherworld which shouldn't be brought to this world."

Abi took the dagger, "This is a foul thing you ask me to do, to kill my own parent."

Sesshomaru frowned, "Abi, do not think I ask this lightly. Your mother has long supported my father, even aided him in battle at times. She is ancient now, her mind is failing. Isn't it time your tribe deserves a strong, intelligent leader. One who puts the needs of the many above the needs of the few?"

Abi put the dagger back on the desk, "If such a time comes where my mother is as ill as you say does come to pass…I will handle it in my own way Sesshomaru."

Sesshomaru looked blankly at her, "Very well, but heed this warning. If I get word a portal is created, your tribe will suffer. I will hold you personally responsible."

Abi smirked, "If a portal is opened, I'm sure I'll be dead first." Abi stood and swept from the room.

Sesshomaru shook his head as he returned the dagger to a drawer in his desk. He was just sitting down when his door opened again and Jaken entered.

The little kappa bowed to Sesshomaru, "I've returned master with the items you requested. I am curious though why you needed these black pearls. Hosenki was most curious as well, considering your father had no need to use the one he acquired."

Sesshomaru glared at the kappa, "I may have use for them Jaken, that is all you need know. Now, what have you learned in regards to your other assignments?"

Jaken sighed, "Very little my lord. There are many rumors regarding the Jewel of Four Souls, but no definite location."

Sesshomaru picked Jaken up by his collar, "Try harder. I need to know where that Jewel is, it is a major factor in my plans."

Jaken bowed, "I will try harder master…oh, and that dry well you wanted me to investigate. I found it right were you said it would be, also a group of humans just settled not far from the well."

Sesshomaru dropped Jaken and returned to his desk, "Good, everything is proceeding as it should.

The Village…

Izayoi walked in the gardens of her new home with Inuyasha. The Inuyokai had made their selves scarce; she knew they were nearby as with just a word they would appear at her side.

A sudden gust of wind drew her attention to a corner of the garden. In the shade of a tree Inu no Taisho stood. She bowed as he approached, "My Lord."

Inu no Taisho smiled, "Good day Izayoi, how are you?"

Izayoi smiled at the Inuyokai, "I'm fine my lord. Your servants have taken good care of us."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "My people have done their jobs well then. I merely came to see how you both were, I mustn't stay long."

Izayoi bowed her head, "Of course my lord, you are very busy."

Inu no Taisho raised her head to look in her eyes, "I apologize for not being able to spend time with you, but the threat of the dragons is not yet past. Ryukotsusei is sealed upon my lands, the dragons will not rest until their master is freed, and they will also stop at nothing to get vengeance."

"Then you should really improve the guard around here." Inu no Taisho moved in front of Izayoi as he turned to see Gen's Pack restraining Princess Abi. The Phoenix daiyokia smirked, "Maybe I spoke too soon."

Inu no Taisho growled, "What are you doing here?"

Abi crossed her arms, "Come now uncle is that any way to treat your favorite niece?"

Inu no Taisho snarled, "You are no relative of mine; you merely called me uncle when you were a hatchling."

Abi looked at the Inuyokai surrounding her, "I mean no harm, heck you could back off a little. Besides if you haven't notice I'm a little outnumbered here."

Inu no Taisho huffed, "Gen, take defensive positions."

The Inuyokai backed up, but were still ready to strike.

Abi nodded, "There see, now was that so hard." She bowed to Inu no Taisho, "I thought I'd just greet you before I left. I had a most…unusual conversation with Lord Sesshomaru."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "I wouldn't doubt, he wasn't forthcoming with the particulars of your meeting. Though, I doubt it was a very amusing discussion."

Abi nodded, "Quite." She tentatively walked closer to get a better look at Inuyasha, "So that's him huh? Not much to look at now, though him being your son."

Inu no Taisho growled, "You've fed your curiosity now leave."

Abi smirked, "I'm going. I'm going. I'm sure things will get interesting."

Inu no Taisho watched Abi leave then turned to Gen, "Extend your range, Abi is one thing, but I'd rather other daiyokai not get so close if I'm not here."

Gen bowed, "As you command my lord." The Inuyokai took off in different directions.

Western Palace…

Inu no Taisho and Sesshomaru were walking down a hall discussing several minor issues that had come up. Sesshomaru finally broached a subject he was nervous about, "Father, I was wondering if you'd secure the Tessaiga as you had planned in the event of your death."

Inu no Taisho frowned, "What for?"

Sesshomaru bowed his head, "It is imperative that Inuyasha undertake that task to retrieve the sword. I don't know how different my brother will be growing up with you around, but for him to claim his inheritance in such a way…"

Inu no Taisho nodded, "You presume a test of sorts, a test to show he is truly ready to wield the sword."

Sesshomaru nodded, "In the old timeline you had a barrier placed that prevented Inuyasha or myself from picking up the sword. Kagome being the only human present had to pick up the sword and give it to Inuyasha. This is an early event in their relationship that helped cement their connection."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "I'll set up the tests and such in the netherworld, but I must admit I find this strange. I also know you've had a number of black pearls acquired as well."

Sesshomaru shook his head, "I've locked those away for a later date. I know a time in my brother's quest will come, besides acquiring the Tessaiga, where he'll need to enter that place. Unfortunately by then the only means to enter the netherworld is through the death of Tekkei."

Inu no Taisho rubbed his chin, "That explains your meeting with Abi. You were giving her some forewarning."

Sesshomaru shook his head, "No, I requested she terminate her mother before Naraku can use her as a passage."

Inu no Taisho looked at his son, "Isn't this too early to make that judgment?"

Sesshomaru nodded, "Yes, that's why Abi and I agreed on a condition. If that never occurs, we'll have no need to worry."

Inu no Taisho sneered, "The best laid plans of mice and men."

Sesshomaru smirked, "Good then we're neither mice nor human."

Inu no Taisho laughed as they continued down the hall.

Elsewhere in the palace…

Nemu had taken it upon herself to personally instruct Kagome on every facet of Inuyokai life. A task that was far from simple, Kagome did have the decency to tell the Inuyokai that chances were she'd be repeating the lessons in the future. This didn't faze the female Inuyokai who continued in stride explaining the caste system and the division between combat and noncombat Inuyokai.

One bonus of the lessons Kagome figured out quickly was that Nemu knew how to easily navigate the numerous hallways and courtyards of the castle, and within a week of starting the lessons Kagome had finally figured out how to get from her room to wherever she wanted to go. Finding any individual Inuyokai was still beyond her.

Twice already she'd accidentally walked in on meetings while trying to find Sesshomaru; her searches were then delayed as those in the meeting hall would question her extensively on her opinion on whatever they were discussing. The second meeting though quickly found her displeasure when she realized they were discussing mating arrangements for Inuyasha.

Those nobles were still in the medical wing; one had even made a request that Kagome be relieved of her bow and arrows. The request was denied, and the noble was reminded that if she really wanted to hurt him she could have purified him. Sesshomaru had brought her the weapons and forcefully told her to carry them at all times, as he couldn't always be there to protect her.

Kagome finally found what she was looking for. Nemu had told her there was an archery field in one of the courtyards, the female noble had no idea it's exact location as only warriors and hunters used it.

Seeing that all the targets were being used she sat on a bench to await a free target.

She'd just sat down when a slender Inuyokai wearing the uniform of a Hunter sat next to her, "If you're waiting for a target it'll be awhile. Ever since the army came back the warriors have been hogging the field."

Kagome smiled, "It's okay…I didn't know your kind used bows and arrows."

The Hunter nodded, "We hunters use them more than the warriors, to them it's just another way to pound their chest and prove who the best is."

Kagome giggled, "You don't appreciate the warriors?"

The Hunter smiled, "I'm lineage hunter, means all my forefathers have been hunters before me. We hunters aren't exactly what you'd call sociable…at least not to the level of the other castes. We like our solitude, and even more we like wilderness. Actually, if it wasn't for his position as the heir, Lord Sesshomaru would be a hunter to."

Kagome looked surprised, "He would?"

The Hunter nodded, "Lord Sesshomaru and I are about the same age. When he was a pup he'd use to sneak down to the Hunter's Den, he'd stay up with the rest of us hunter pups listening to the stories from the older hunters."

Kagome bowed her head, "I never really thought about it, but besides Jaken…Sesshomaru was alone for a long time."

The Hunter crossed his arms, "Wouldn't surprise me. I know he only keeps a combat pack because it was decreed by his father and mother. If he had his way he'd walk the lands solo, like a true hunter."

Kagome smiled, "Is it really exciting to be out all on your own?"

The Hunter leaned against the wall and looked up into the sky, "For my first hunt, my father gave me the target of a young boar yokai. He'd been causing havoc throughout the lands and Inu no Taisho really wanted him dealt with. I tracked him for a week, I learned the other hunters sent after him had lost his trail. Knowing it was a one on one hunt thrilled me, I was facing a yokai that could easily turn the tables on me."

Kagome looked surprised, "What did you do?"

The Hunter leaned forward on his knees, "I did the only smart thing. I drove him into a canyon that was too small for his true form. Being forced to take a smaller form gave me the advantage. Then I boxed him in so he couldn't turn to lash out at me. Taking higher ground I lined up a shot with my bow and arrow, and ended the hunt with a single shot."

Kagome blinked, "What did Inu no Taisho say?"

The Hunter grimaced, "He wacked the back of my head and told me if I ever take on an opponent like that without my reinforcements he'd personally skin me."

Kagome grimaced, "He was that mad?"

The Hunter shook his head, "Not mad, more like concerned. The general is a great leader, like all those before him he truly cares for our tribe. Every member of the tribe serves a purpose. The Warriors protect our territory, the Hunters patrol and deal with small problems, the Nobles handle relations with other tribes, and the Servants take care of the rest of us. To lose any member due to a senseless accident or careless action can cause long term problems. It takes five hundred years for an Inuyokai to reach a level of maturity were they're truly self sufficient. Right now, even Lord Sesshomaru isn't truly that way, but he has the responsibilities of a fully matured member of our tribe."

Kagome looked thoughtfully at the Inuyokai, "You mean he's still a child?"

The Hunter nodded, "Yup, both of us are only within our third century. Due to the ongoing wars with the dragons us younger Inuyokai have had to pick up some of the slack. War means a lot of deaths, and unlike mundane dogs, we only have one pup at a time. Usually there are at least fifty years between siblings."

Kagome smiled sheepishly, "I'll try avoiding purifying any of you."

The Hunter chuckled, "Much appreciated…though anytime you feel like shooting one of the nobles. Please feel free to, it's so nice seeing them taken down a peg."

Kagome laughed.

Their conversation was ended as a warrior stepped away from the firing line and motioned Kagome to take his spot.

The Village…

The Lady entered the mansion to find some of Gen's Pack relaxing. That only the two youngest members were present told her the others were patrolling the area. The Lady walked over to the pair, "I assume your father is patrolling the area?"

Korra leapt to her feet, "My Lady…sorry we didn't expect you." Ton had also made it to his feet.

The Lady glanced at Korra's stomach and walked over to the younger female, "Sit back down girl, you are in no condition to be jumping around like that." She turned to Ton, "You on the other hand, no doubt your father left you to watch Izayoi, Inuyasha, and your sister."

Ton bowed, "Yes my lady…father should be back soon."

The Lady nodded, "I've sensed his yoki since my arrival. Their patrol pattern is most effective, I wasn't able to arrive undetected. Though entering the manor undetected was another story."

Before Ton could respond Izayoi entered carrying Inuyasha, "Is someone here I thought I heard you talking to someone…Oh…My Lady, I apologize. My Lord didn't say you'd be visiting."

The Lady moved over to Izayoi, "You could say this isn't a scheduled visit. I was merely curious as to how you and Inuyasha are doing."

Izayoi bowed, "We are fine, though I will admit the last couple months have been quite boring."

The Lady frowned, "Gen isn't refusing to allow you visitors, is he?"

Izayoi shook her head, "Oh no, it's nothing like that. It's merely that the villagers don't wish to associate with me. Their priest stopped by a few times, but he's just an old man, spends most his visits insulting me for my choices in life."

The Lady glared out a nearby window, "It is not his concern…perhaps I will instruct this human in proper etiquette."

Izayoi shook her head, "No my lady, that won't be necessary."

The Lady huffed, "Fine…now may I see the child?"

Izayoi consented and handed Inuyasha over to the female Inuyokai. The Lady looked him over for a couple minutes, and then reluctantly returned him to his mother. The Lady then turned to Ton, "I won't reveal the lack in your attentiveness, but don't make me regret that."

Ton bowed, "Of course not my lady."

The lady turned and left.

Wolf Tribe…

The Chieftain bowed his head as his tribesmen wrapped the remains of his mate. For reasons he didn't yet understand a Bird of Paradise attacked his mate while she was outside the den. The healer had tried to save the unborn cub, but failed. He was just pleased that Koga wasn't present when this happened. He'd sent his son to the elders, and was tempted to leave him there until the issue with the birds could be dealt with.

Turning the Chieftain found several of his warriors ready for battle, "What are you doing?"

The lead warrior growled, "This was a blatant attack, we should retaliate."

The Chieftain stood his stance ready to fight, "I have sent word to Inu no Taisho. He will no doubt come to handle the situation. We mustn't allow anger to cloud our judgment. How do you expect to attack an opponent who flies, while we have no such ability?"

The warrior snarled, "This is a wolf matter, we don't need some stinking dog to kill some stupid birds."

The Chieftain stomped his foot, "You will obey, you will stand down and wait. If we retaliate we also breech the treaty."

The warrior spit on the ground, "That's what I think of the treaty. We're not some servants to be told what to do. We are wolves, and these birds have attacked us."

The group had just reached the cave entrance when a wave of yoki blew them all back. The Chieftain rushed forward to face the threat, but stopped when he saw the half dozen Inuyokai standing at the entrance. Inu no Taisho stepped forward, "It appears you have some difficulty restraining your tribe."

The Chieftain bowed, "No my lord, they are just enraged. They weren't thinking clearly."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "I understand the Birds of Paradise are giving you some trouble."

The Chieftain nodded, "We have a long term hunting agreement with them that allowed us to pass through their territory to some hunting grounds on the edge of this valley. We pay their leader a tribute after the hunt. I believe when some of my hunters who lagged behind the main group passed they didn't leave a tribute. In retribution they attacked and killed my mate, and the cub she was baring."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "I think I understand. The Birds have become greedy. I will have a word with them, until then your tribe should not stray into their territory."

The Chieftain bowed again, "I thank you my lord."

Inu no Taisho looked around the den, "Where is your son?"

The Chieftain looked up, "He is with my brother. They took our offerings to the Northern Wolf Tribe; my son has been having visions and nightmares. I'd hoped the elders could help him understand what is happening."

Inu no Taisho nodded, "It seems we rushed things with the cub. I must apologize; it seems in my haste I didn't realize the age difference between our sons. Recently my son has acquired a form of foresight; this gift was also given to your son, as well as two other yokai. The gift granted him visions of a timeline that no longer exists, at some point in that timeline my son chose to undo fate, and chose your son as one who could aid in this endeavor."

The Chieftain was confused, "What does the age difference matter?"

Inu no Taisho frowned, "He is receiving memories, yet he doesn't have the maturity to understand them. My own son is much older, and in a sense has been replaced by the one whose memories he now possesses."

The Chieftain sighed, "For whatever reason this had happened. I will aid my son in the coming days."

Inu no Taisho smiled, "As fathers that is all we can. My son has already altered my own fate, which may intern alter your own." Inu no Taisho turned to the cave entrance, "Now I'll go deal with these birds. Though I must admit I'm growing tired of dealing with the avian species."

The Chieftain blinked, "You've had other issues?"

Inu no Taisho nodded, "Princess Abi of the Northern Lands located my hanyo son. I have a feeling she's taken an interest in his development, have I ever said I despise Phoenix Yokai. Really, her mother was great during my exile, but I really despise their tendency to interfere in other people's business."

The Chieftain sneered, "While you get dragged into other people's business."

Inu no Taisho glared, "Yes, that is true."

End Chapter Four

A/N: Hope you all enjoy, I'm currently working on chapter six, so please review.