AN: Okay everyone, I'm taking a chance with this chapter, because the very
end doesn't feel like it flows right, but I can't figure out what to
change. Please don't hate me if I disappoint you with it, I'll most gladly
make new changes to what you guys think. Thanks for all your patience.
del_kaidin(): *bows* Thank you. Don't worry, the rosary does have another part in my story *wink* but you'll have to keep reading to find out. To answer your question, there are only two people from the original series (besides Naraku cause he's a definite MUST die character) that aren't alive now are Kaede and Kikyou. That's who the incense was burning for ^_^ and before I get shot, I am a proud member of the anti-Kikyou club, but I do respect the dead (once they get it through their thick head that they're supposed to be dead). Hehehehehe
Eileen: Hmmm pestering me till the end of my days *le sigh* I think that may be every writer's dream, to have that much popularity!! I'm glad you're enjoying Well and I hope to hear more of your reviews soon
Miko Youkai: I'm glad you're enjoying it, and yeah, the secret is out, so we'll see what happens next *wink
Dia : *grin* I'm so glad you're enjoying my work, keep up the great work on your end, and I can't wait to read your stuff!!
"Ow," I hissed under my breath as skilled hands touched my back, and I felt the sting of the needle as it pricked my skin. I sighed and gritted my teeth, closing my eyes and trying to focus my attentions elsewhere. Everyone had assembled in the main room and I could hear them murmuring beyond the wall. Kohana had been forbidden from coming to see me, and I could feel her sorrow, even if I couldn't hear her tears.
Maeko finished closing the wounds on my back and carefully wrapped a linen bandage around me, to keep the stitching dry. Then without another word to me, she rose up and walked out of the room. I tried to get off my stomach, but my back was tight and uncooperative, so I pulled myself across the floor, and crept near the door, trying to listen. I closed my eyes, focusing all my attentions on my ears, as I pressed against the floor.
"She can't stay here any longer, don't you see, those creatures are probably from her world, brought here with her when she came through the well," cried an older males' voice, that I didn't recognize.
"That's impossible, such things don't exist there," Kagome said softly.
"It has been 25 years Kagome-sama, how can you even know what does, or doesn't exist there now." He retorted.
"Inuyasha-sama," spoke up another man, "Have you in your travels ever seen such a creature before?"
"No, I have not," I heard him reply, and it was strange to my ears to hear him sounding so stern and proper. "But I do not think this is a youkai, there is no smell to it, and it left no trail when it ran. I have sent messages to some of the youkai lords that are friends to my family, to ask for their advice and council. I do not know what this creature is, but it is a formidable enemy, and should not be taken lightly."
"I have sent out messages as well, to many contacts I have retained in the taijia ranks, to send the best exterminators they can spare. Together we will put an end to this threat," Sango said softly.
"About the woman," I heard a soft voice speak up, and I realized that it was Kaemon, "His lordship has offered to have her secured within the palace walls. If she does know something about this, or even perhaps is their master, she shouldn't be allowed the chance to escape."
"I disagree," came another voice, and I thought my heart would stop. It was Keitaro. "I believe that she doesn't have anything to do with this."
"Keitaro, we are glad you have finally decided to show a favorable eye to the fairer sex, but your timing is less than appropriate," jokingly spoke another man and I could feel his anger spike.
"Before you forget which senses should be in command of your body," Keitaro continued, and I grinned as the embarrassment quickly rose, "It has to be noted that she did save my sister, and did try to fight to save Ichiro's life, though failing. I fail to see how she could do such things, and still have a part in their destruction."
"Perhaps she is a witch, and merely trying to trick us with her good will, pretending to take an interest in things while only luring us all in as food for her pets."
"Yes, Sano-san is right. You told us yourself Kagome-sama, that she barely spoke any of our language when she arrived and after only a few number of days, she has mastered it. Either she lied at the beginning, or she can read our thoughts."
I bowed my head, thinking perhaps that Keitaro's defense would hold, but it seemed hopeless. All I could think to do was to sit and wait, and see what would happen.
"I say, we get rid of her. If she is their master, than once she is dead, they will leave as well, perhaps even return home," spoke a deep raspy voice, and I felt the blood in my veins grow cold.
"Kill the girl?!" rose Kagome's shocked voice. "How can you even suggest such a thing?"
"I am merely looking out for the good of the village, miko-sama. Too many strangers never bode well, she doesn't belong here, and she's not one of us."
I felt a cold chill drift over the room, and heard the ruffle of material as Kagome stood, "May I kindly remind you that I am not of this village, in fact I come from the same land as that girl? I am sorry for the loss of your son, and would I could, I would change what has happened, but I cannot. Would you add the weight of this girl's death to the weight of your own grief?"
"But something has to be done about these creatures, and about her!" he shouted in return, and I heard two soft growls rise up in defense of Kagome, and the man quieted down.
I was so preoccupied with listening in, that I didn't notice the soft sound approach me, and felt a prick against my neck. I quickly slapped at the mosquito, and heard a soft "oof" near my ear. I glanced down at my hand to see a very tiny creature that looked like a man, with four arms?
"Myouga-jiji," I whispered. He shook his head and looked up at me curiously, "How do you know my name?"
I sighed, "I would have thought you'd have been filled in on me already."
"Master Inuyasha simply asked me to keep an eye on you, but you looked so tasty," he grinned and rubbed all his hands together, "You have the same taste as Lady Kagome, but sweeter. Mmmm, I shall have to report this," he said and quickly hopped off my hand and away.
"Wait!" I hissed but lost sight of him, and sighed, sitting back against the wall. The matting moved away, and a man I didn't recognize looked around quickly, grabbed my arm, and dragged me to my feet. I tried to regain my stance as he pulled me quickly out of the room and dropped me near the center of the gathered group. With the exception of Inuyasha, Miroku and their families, I didn't know the other villagers. Kagome and Sango were the only women present I also noticed.
I met everyone's eyes awkwardly, sitting up as best I could with the restrictive nature of the bandages, and was grateful that they kept me decently covered. They all glanced away from my gaze; as if afraid I was trying to bewitch them. I closed my eyes, trying to ignore the waves of fear and avarice that surrounded me, making me ill.
Inuyasha's head was tilted slightly to the side and I knew he was listening to what Myouga was telling him. He nodded once and looked up at me.
"She is, what she has always claimed to be," he replied. "She is a woman, from my wife's land. She is not a youkai, nor is she a witch of any sort."
I sighed softly, and heard the raspy man, a much older man with thinning greasy grey hair pulled back in a topknot speak up, "How are you so sure?"
"Myouga has been my advisor for many years, and besides such, being a flea- demon, he can taste any magic in the blood. She has none," he replied. A little of the fear lessoned, at least the fear towards me.
"So what of these creatures? What does she know of them? Does she control them?" spoke up several people and I felt my patience snap. One of the things I have always hated was being spoken about in my presence, as if I wasn't there, or as if I wasn't intelligent enough to understand.
"Ask her yourself," Keitaro said, motioning to me, "She understands perfectly what you're saying, and is quite intelligent enough to respond on her own."
I clenched my fists, "First they threaten my life, and now they want answers, and they simply expect me to tremble at their feet. Boy, I really have landed in the dark ages," I said in English sarcastically. Keitaro's ears went back, and I know he was resisting answering me. So, he hadn't told them of his side of the secret, I realized and smiled slightly. He caught the smile and looked nervous. Let him sweat a while.
The others stared at me, and I felt the worry rise around me. With a deep breath, I replied, "No, I don't know any more about them than you do, and I most certainly don't control them." I motioned the bandages around my torso, "I think I have the scars to prove that."
The raspy man glared at me, but said nothing. I looked to Inuyasha and Kagome, tilting my head slightly in a way that my body language made it perfectly clear who of the assembled I respected, and recognized as the authority.
"I think it is time I told my side, perhaps it will clear up some confusion," I said softly. Kagome nodded, and Inuyasha crossed his arms and legs, looking serious. It was comforting, to see that recognized position of thought, it eased me a little as I spoke.
"I am not originally from this land, or that of Lady Kagome, but one across the ocean, a land not yet known to you. I arrived in Japan to teach, and was traveling around the land, learning and admiring its beauty. During my travels, I came across a beautiful shrine, and met the young man who ran it." I purposely looked at Kagome, whose eyes widened slightly. I smiled, and continued, telling them of Sato, feeling pangs of longing and sorrow coming off of Kagome. I wrapped a wall around myself, blocking out all the emotions around me as I reached the part of the well, and the strange sensations I felt before being pulled inside.
Surprisingly no one tried to interrupt me as I spoke. I stopped after my initial meeting with Keitaro, and then one of the men present ventured a question.
"How did you come to know the language then?"
I looked down at my hands; this was the part I was trying to avoid. How to explain my Empathy without fueling their fears of bewitchment.
"Sometimes, there are people that are gifted to do things that most cannot. Like Lady Kagome's ability as a miko, this is a very rare thing in our land. Very few can move objects without the aid of their hands to move them, some can even read minds. And some can feel the emotions of others. That is my gift. I don't see it as a form of magic, but it something I have had since birth."
"See, I told you, she is a witch!" shouted Raspy man and I glared at him. "I am not a witch! I never use my gift against anyone, and frankly there are times that I wish I didn't have it. You have no idea what is like. To be in a room full of people and feel their hate and fear and distastes weighing on your body like a load of stones." I took a breath, "The night that the thugs came, was the first time I ever tried to use my gift against anyone. I had never done something like it before, but I was frightened for my life. When Lord Inuyasha and Lord Keitaro," I gave him an honorific title which shocked him, I could see it in his eyes, "came to my rescue, I lost control. Lord Keitaro was the first one at my side, and from what I can figure out, I involuntarily touched his mind, and that is how I came to learn the language." I looked at everyone, but particularly with Keitaro, "I did not mean to, and did not even realize it, for I was unconscious. When I awoke, I knew what everyone was saying."
"Why did you not tell us before?" Kagome asked softly.
"I was afraid, that you would think what you do now, that I am some sort of spy, or someone who wishes to bring harm to the village. I swear on all that I hold holy, I did not bring those creatures, nor do I hold any control over them, but I will fight to destroy them."
Everyone looked surprised and the men laughed, "You are but a woman, you should remain behind in the safety of the huts."
Only the village men seemed to find humor in this. The men of both families looked uncomfortable, and Kagome and Sango looked furious. I turned to Kagome, "How you manage with this pig-headed, ignorant style of thinking for all these years, surprises me," I said and the men stopped laughing. I glared at them.
"You think I am just a woman, and useless, but you cannot possibly win against these creatures without me!"
They looked surprised, and it was Kaemon who finally spoke up, "Why is that? We will have the best warriors around fighting, what makes you think you will make the difference?" His voice was curious, not condescending. I turned to Inuyasha, "You said that the creature had no scent, and left no trail to follow?"
He nodded, and I paused a moment before speaking, "I knew the attack was coming, that's how I got Kohana out of danger. I can feel the bastards."
Everyone started speaking at once, and Kagome rose to her feet, "Quiet!" They stopped talking, and Kagome looked at me, "Explain what you feel then, and perhaps it will give us good idea of what to look for."
I started to speak, when I felt something drape over my shoulders. Kaemon had removed his haori and placed it there. I smiled faintly and pulled it around me, nodding my thanks to him. From the corner of my eye, I saw Miroku and Inuyasha exchange a look and glance at Keitaro, who simply stared straight ahead.
"I felt this overwhelming hunger surround me, insatiable fierce hunger. And I realized that it was after Kohana. After it tried to attack her, and I sent her for help, it disappeared. When you were all gathered around me, I felt it again, even hungrier, and it struck before I could warn that young man," I glanced at the raspy man, who looked away angry. "I am sorry for your loss, and if I could have known in time, I would have tried to protect him, like I did for Kohana. It wasn't until Kagome was set to attack it that I felt a change to the hunger. Most creatures, no matter how powerful, will always feel fear when confronted with a weapon. But this thing never once feared, in fact, it was almost happy, as if the arrow would help it more than hurt it." I felt tired, and it must have seemed obvious, because Inuyasha stood and quickly broke up the meeting. The men left, without saying another word to me, and I sat there, staring at the fire pit in the middle of the room, as cold as the ashes were.
Kaemon rose and I handed him his shirt, "Thank you," I said and he smiled, leaning down and gently brushing his lips against my forehead. I blinked in surprise but he graced me with that charming smile that was his inheritance from his father and walked out, following behind his parents.
I heard my name vaguely and turned my head to see Kohana and the twins come running through the door, and pounce on me. I fell back, but never hit the ground, as hands caught my descent. Maeko glared at the children, "Careful, she still has to heal," she scolded, and left the hut. They all looked ashamed and pouted but I hugged them close. Kohana whimpered, "I was so scared that they were going to send you away Nee-san," she said and the twins nodded, "Papa wouldn't let us leave, he said that we couldn't see you. We even tried to trick him, but he's too clever. He saw through all our fox illusions." I smiled, "Well, it's alright, I'm not going to go away, I promise."
They beamed, and all three gathered me in their collective arms and hugged me. I saw a form in the doorway, just a silhouette, but I recognized the form and nodded my head. The twins looked disappointed, "Papa, we just got here, can't we please stay and play with her?"
Shippou should his head, "You heard Maeko, she still needs to rest and heal." They sighed and gave me one more hug, both winking at me in a way that I knew I would probably have visitors in the middle of the night, then hurried out the door after their father. I wondered why he didn't join in the meeting as well, and made a point to remember to ask later. Kohana was scooped up by Maeko, protesting of course, and I vaguely heard the words, "bath" and "dirty" as they vanished from ear sight.
I rose to my feet, and walked into the room that had been mine for several days, gathered up my bag, and my clothes and headed back into the main room. Kagome and Inuyasha were speaking softly with Keitaro and all three turned to look at me.
"I thank you all for your kindness, but it isn't right that I have put Keitaro from his room for so long. The nights are warm, I can sleep outside." Kagome placed her hands on her hips and I cringed slightly. I knew that pose, it was the pose all mothers had when their children said something stubbornly stupid.
"Do not be ridiculous, you are our guest, and I most certainly won't let you sleep outside on the dirt. If this about not telling us your secret, do not feel that we want to throw you out. Now put your things down in the corner. In the least, if you truly feel bad about putting Keitaro out, then you can still sleep under our roof. I'll bring out your futon and place it here in the main room."
I nodded dumbly, "Thank you, but don't trouble yourself. I'll move it myself." I turned to head outside.
"Dinner will be prepared shortly," she said softly and I looked over my shoulder, "I need some time to myself, but thank you for your hospitality." I walked out the door, and decided I needed to get away from everyone. Careful to make sure no one saw me, I headed into the woods and traveled around the village. When I had reached the other side of the village, I emerged from the wood line, looked around, and quickly headed up the stairs.
I felt dizzy by the time I reached the top, and sat down in the shade of the same tree from that morning. With a sigh, I closed my eyes and leaned back against the trunk. After a moment of silence, I opened them again, looking at the shrine.
"Boy, could I use your help right about now Kaede," I whispered softly. "Maybe even some of your wisdom, because I'm so completely lost right now. Now they all hate me, or fear me and I'm not sure what is worse. And I'm scared. I don't know what these things are, and I don't want to die in this strange land, all alone. I feel like I'm missing something, something very important, something that could defeat them, but I'm not sure what."
I pulled my knees up to my chest, ignoring the protest from my back, and rested my chin on my knees. Everything was so blessedly still, and I relaxed.
"Why didn't you tell them?" came a voice above me.
"It wasn't my place, "I whispered softly, and heard the rustle of leaves, and the creaking of a branch. I knew he moved to the branch that was just above my head.
"But then you wouldn't have looked so guilty," he said, "If you told them I learned your language as well, and then it would have seemed more a mistake."
I shook my head, "I don't expect you to understand," I began and he snorted. "Oh? Am I too stupid?"
I sighed, "Shut up and let me finish," I snapped, and he did so. "I was saying, I don't expect you to understand me, and the way I think. I don't tell personal things to other people, its nosy gossip and I refuse to have any part of it. For the same reason I didn't tell Kohana who that incense is really burning for over there. It's none of her business till your father or mother tells her. You want to tell them you speak English now, go right ahead, but other than that, it is something that remains between the two of us."
I felt air brush my head and looked up. Keitaro was dangling from his knees from the branch, and his face was level with mine as he stared at my face. I watched him, still as I could possibly be. His eyes fell on my forehead, and I felt a little ashamed, remembering the kiss that was place there.
He sniffed slightly and frowned, "Kaemon has too much of my uncle in him, he's not the sort of person you should become attached to," he said softly.
I felt my lips twitch, wanting to smile, "And how would you know what sort of person I should become attached to? That would involve you actually getting to know what kind of person I am, and I'm sure you don't want to bother."
He frowned and his eyes narrowed into tiny slits, "I know you didn't just get the language from me, I know you probably picked up my memories as well." I blinked and opened my mouth, "I know because I've picked up yours as well." My eyes widened, "Which ones?" I stuttered, and he grinned.
"Ah, that is my other secret," he grinned mischievously and I pursed my lips, looking away. His hand came up and grasped my chin in it, turning my face back to his.
"You shouldn't look so angry and cold all the time," he said and I let the sarcasm drip from my voice, "Why not?"
"Because you're much more beautiful when you're smiling, especially when you're with the pups," he said softly and I felt a blush rise to my cheeks. "Do you have any?"
I blinked in surprise and pulled my chin away from his hands, as he grabbed a hold of the branch, unlocked his knees and landed on the ground before me, crouched.
"I..I don't think that's your business," I stammered, and he grinned, leaning close. "You don't smell like you have a mate," he whispered, leaning so close I could feel his breath on my cheek as he spoke.
"Ke..Keitaro, what are you," I whispered and he leaned back on his haunches, grinning mischievously.
"A bit warm, are we?" he said, and I blinked.
"Oh! You!" I screamed and tried to tackle him but he moved out of the way. "Francesca, you had better learn to keep up your defenses a little better, or my cousin is going to sweep you away so fast, you won't know what hit you till you fall," he said, rising to his feet.
"I have no intentions falling for your cousin, or anyone else for that matter," I said stubbornly, and he paused, looking at me a moment, before nodding.
"No, I don't suppose you would," he replied looking almost sad for a moment, and before I could ask him why, he dashed away.
"Damn him and his sneaky tricks," I muttered and rose to my feet, gathering my belongings again and made the trek back to the hut.
del_kaidin(): *bows* Thank you. Don't worry, the rosary does have another part in my story *wink* but you'll have to keep reading to find out. To answer your question, there are only two people from the original series (besides Naraku cause he's a definite MUST die character) that aren't alive now are Kaede and Kikyou. That's who the incense was burning for ^_^ and before I get shot, I am a proud member of the anti-Kikyou club, but I do respect the dead (once they get it through their thick head that they're supposed to be dead). Hehehehehe
Eileen: Hmmm pestering me till the end of my days *le sigh* I think that may be every writer's dream, to have that much popularity!! I'm glad you're enjoying Well and I hope to hear more of your reviews soon
Miko Youkai: I'm glad you're enjoying it, and yeah, the secret is out, so we'll see what happens next *wink
Dia : *grin* I'm so glad you're enjoying my work, keep up the great work on your end, and I can't wait to read your stuff!!
"Ow," I hissed under my breath as skilled hands touched my back, and I felt the sting of the needle as it pricked my skin. I sighed and gritted my teeth, closing my eyes and trying to focus my attentions elsewhere. Everyone had assembled in the main room and I could hear them murmuring beyond the wall. Kohana had been forbidden from coming to see me, and I could feel her sorrow, even if I couldn't hear her tears.
Maeko finished closing the wounds on my back and carefully wrapped a linen bandage around me, to keep the stitching dry. Then without another word to me, she rose up and walked out of the room. I tried to get off my stomach, but my back was tight and uncooperative, so I pulled myself across the floor, and crept near the door, trying to listen. I closed my eyes, focusing all my attentions on my ears, as I pressed against the floor.
"She can't stay here any longer, don't you see, those creatures are probably from her world, brought here with her when she came through the well," cried an older males' voice, that I didn't recognize.
"That's impossible, such things don't exist there," Kagome said softly.
"It has been 25 years Kagome-sama, how can you even know what does, or doesn't exist there now." He retorted.
"Inuyasha-sama," spoke up another man, "Have you in your travels ever seen such a creature before?"
"No, I have not," I heard him reply, and it was strange to my ears to hear him sounding so stern and proper. "But I do not think this is a youkai, there is no smell to it, and it left no trail when it ran. I have sent messages to some of the youkai lords that are friends to my family, to ask for their advice and council. I do not know what this creature is, but it is a formidable enemy, and should not be taken lightly."
"I have sent out messages as well, to many contacts I have retained in the taijia ranks, to send the best exterminators they can spare. Together we will put an end to this threat," Sango said softly.
"About the woman," I heard a soft voice speak up, and I realized that it was Kaemon, "His lordship has offered to have her secured within the palace walls. If she does know something about this, or even perhaps is their master, she shouldn't be allowed the chance to escape."
"I disagree," came another voice, and I thought my heart would stop. It was Keitaro. "I believe that she doesn't have anything to do with this."
"Keitaro, we are glad you have finally decided to show a favorable eye to the fairer sex, but your timing is less than appropriate," jokingly spoke another man and I could feel his anger spike.
"Before you forget which senses should be in command of your body," Keitaro continued, and I grinned as the embarrassment quickly rose, "It has to be noted that she did save my sister, and did try to fight to save Ichiro's life, though failing. I fail to see how she could do such things, and still have a part in their destruction."
"Perhaps she is a witch, and merely trying to trick us with her good will, pretending to take an interest in things while only luring us all in as food for her pets."
"Yes, Sano-san is right. You told us yourself Kagome-sama, that she barely spoke any of our language when she arrived and after only a few number of days, she has mastered it. Either she lied at the beginning, or she can read our thoughts."
I bowed my head, thinking perhaps that Keitaro's defense would hold, but it seemed hopeless. All I could think to do was to sit and wait, and see what would happen.
"I say, we get rid of her. If she is their master, than once she is dead, they will leave as well, perhaps even return home," spoke a deep raspy voice, and I felt the blood in my veins grow cold.
"Kill the girl?!" rose Kagome's shocked voice. "How can you even suggest such a thing?"
"I am merely looking out for the good of the village, miko-sama. Too many strangers never bode well, she doesn't belong here, and she's not one of us."
I felt a cold chill drift over the room, and heard the ruffle of material as Kagome stood, "May I kindly remind you that I am not of this village, in fact I come from the same land as that girl? I am sorry for the loss of your son, and would I could, I would change what has happened, but I cannot. Would you add the weight of this girl's death to the weight of your own grief?"
"But something has to be done about these creatures, and about her!" he shouted in return, and I heard two soft growls rise up in defense of Kagome, and the man quieted down.
I was so preoccupied with listening in, that I didn't notice the soft sound approach me, and felt a prick against my neck. I quickly slapped at the mosquito, and heard a soft "oof" near my ear. I glanced down at my hand to see a very tiny creature that looked like a man, with four arms?
"Myouga-jiji," I whispered. He shook his head and looked up at me curiously, "How do you know my name?"
I sighed, "I would have thought you'd have been filled in on me already."
"Master Inuyasha simply asked me to keep an eye on you, but you looked so tasty," he grinned and rubbed all his hands together, "You have the same taste as Lady Kagome, but sweeter. Mmmm, I shall have to report this," he said and quickly hopped off my hand and away.
"Wait!" I hissed but lost sight of him, and sighed, sitting back against the wall. The matting moved away, and a man I didn't recognize looked around quickly, grabbed my arm, and dragged me to my feet. I tried to regain my stance as he pulled me quickly out of the room and dropped me near the center of the gathered group. With the exception of Inuyasha, Miroku and their families, I didn't know the other villagers. Kagome and Sango were the only women present I also noticed.
I met everyone's eyes awkwardly, sitting up as best I could with the restrictive nature of the bandages, and was grateful that they kept me decently covered. They all glanced away from my gaze; as if afraid I was trying to bewitch them. I closed my eyes, trying to ignore the waves of fear and avarice that surrounded me, making me ill.
Inuyasha's head was tilted slightly to the side and I knew he was listening to what Myouga was telling him. He nodded once and looked up at me.
"She is, what she has always claimed to be," he replied. "She is a woman, from my wife's land. She is not a youkai, nor is she a witch of any sort."
I sighed softly, and heard the raspy man, a much older man with thinning greasy grey hair pulled back in a topknot speak up, "How are you so sure?"
"Myouga has been my advisor for many years, and besides such, being a flea- demon, he can taste any magic in the blood. She has none," he replied. A little of the fear lessoned, at least the fear towards me.
"So what of these creatures? What does she know of them? Does she control them?" spoke up several people and I felt my patience snap. One of the things I have always hated was being spoken about in my presence, as if I wasn't there, or as if I wasn't intelligent enough to understand.
"Ask her yourself," Keitaro said, motioning to me, "She understands perfectly what you're saying, and is quite intelligent enough to respond on her own."
I clenched my fists, "First they threaten my life, and now they want answers, and they simply expect me to tremble at their feet. Boy, I really have landed in the dark ages," I said in English sarcastically. Keitaro's ears went back, and I know he was resisting answering me. So, he hadn't told them of his side of the secret, I realized and smiled slightly. He caught the smile and looked nervous. Let him sweat a while.
The others stared at me, and I felt the worry rise around me. With a deep breath, I replied, "No, I don't know any more about them than you do, and I most certainly don't control them." I motioned the bandages around my torso, "I think I have the scars to prove that."
The raspy man glared at me, but said nothing. I looked to Inuyasha and Kagome, tilting my head slightly in a way that my body language made it perfectly clear who of the assembled I respected, and recognized as the authority.
"I think it is time I told my side, perhaps it will clear up some confusion," I said softly. Kagome nodded, and Inuyasha crossed his arms and legs, looking serious. It was comforting, to see that recognized position of thought, it eased me a little as I spoke.
"I am not originally from this land, or that of Lady Kagome, but one across the ocean, a land not yet known to you. I arrived in Japan to teach, and was traveling around the land, learning and admiring its beauty. During my travels, I came across a beautiful shrine, and met the young man who ran it." I purposely looked at Kagome, whose eyes widened slightly. I smiled, and continued, telling them of Sato, feeling pangs of longing and sorrow coming off of Kagome. I wrapped a wall around myself, blocking out all the emotions around me as I reached the part of the well, and the strange sensations I felt before being pulled inside.
Surprisingly no one tried to interrupt me as I spoke. I stopped after my initial meeting with Keitaro, and then one of the men present ventured a question.
"How did you come to know the language then?"
I looked down at my hands; this was the part I was trying to avoid. How to explain my Empathy without fueling their fears of bewitchment.
"Sometimes, there are people that are gifted to do things that most cannot. Like Lady Kagome's ability as a miko, this is a very rare thing in our land. Very few can move objects without the aid of their hands to move them, some can even read minds. And some can feel the emotions of others. That is my gift. I don't see it as a form of magic, but it something I have had since birth."
"See, I told you, she is a witch!" shouted Raspy man and I glared at him. "I am not a witch! I never use my gift against anyone, and frankly there are times that I wish I didn't have it. You have no idea what is like. To be in a room full of people and feel their hate and fear and distastes weighing on your body like a load of stones." I took a breath, "The night that the thugs came, was the first time I ever tried to use my gift against anyone. I had never done something like it before, but I was frightened for my life. When Lord Inuyasha and Lord Keitaro," I gave him an honorific title which shocked him, I could see it in his eyes, "came to my rescue, I lost control. Lord Keitaro was the first one at my side, and from what I can figure out, I involuntarily touched his mind, and that is how I came to learn the language." I looked at everyone, but particularly with Keitaro, "I did not mean to, and did not even realize it, for I was unconscious. When I awoke, I knew what everyone was saying."
"Why did you not tell us before?" Kagome asked softly.
"I was afraid, that you would think what you do now, that I am some sort of spy, or someone who wishes to bring harm to the village. I swear on all that I hold holy, I did not bring those creatures, nor do I hold any control over them, but I will fight to destroy them."
Everyone looked surprised and the men laughed, "You are but a woman, you should remain behind in the safety of the huts."
Only the village men seemed to find humor in this. The men of both families looked uncomfortable, and Kagome and Sango looked furious. I turned to Kagome, "How you manage with this pig-headed, ignorant style of thinking for all these years, surprises me," I said and the men stopped laughing. I glared at them.
"You think I am just a woman, and useless, but you cannot possibly win against these creatures without me!"
They looked surprised, and it was Kaemon who finally spoke up, "Why is that? We will have the best warriors around fighting, what makes you think you will make the difference?" His voice was curious, not condescending. I turned to Inuyasha, "You said that the creature had no scent, and left no trail to follow?"
He nodded, and I paused a moment before speaking, "I knew the attack was coming, that's how I got Kohana out of danger. I can feel the bastards."
Everyone started speaking at once, and Kagome rose to her feet, "Quiet!" They stopped talking, and Kagome looked at me, "Explain what you feel then, and perhaps it will give us good idea of what to look for."
I started to speak, when I felt something drape over my shoulders. Kaemon had removed his haori and placed it there. I smiled faintly and pulled it around me, nodding my thanks to him. From the corner of my eye, I saw Miroku and Inuyasha exchange a look and glance at Keitaro, who simply stared straight ahead.
"I felt this overwhelming hunger surround me, insatiable fierce hunger. And I realized that it was after Kohana. After it tried to attack her, and I sent her for help, it disappeared. When you were all gathered around me, I felt it again, even hungrier, and it struck before I could warn that young man," I glanced at the raspy man, who looked away angry. "I am sorry for your loss, and if I could have known in time, I would have tried to protect him, like I did for Kohana. It wasn't until Kagome was set to attack it that I felt a change to the hunger. Most creatures, no matter how powerful, will always feel fear when confronted with a weapon. But this thing never once feared, in fact, it was almost happy, as if the arrow would help it more than hurt it." I felt tired, and it must have seemed obvious, because Inuyasha stood and quickly broke up the meeting. The men left, without saying another word to me, and I sat there, staring at the fire pit in the middle of the room, as cold as the ashes were.
Kaemon rose and I handed him his shirt, "Thank you," I said and he smiled, leaning down and gently brushing his lips against my forehead. I blinked in surprise but he graced me with that charming smile that was his inheritance from his father and walked out, following behind his parents.
I heard my name vaguely and turned my head to see Kohana and the twins come running through the door, and pounce on me. I fell back, but never hit the ground, as hands caught my descent. Maeko glared at the children, "Careful, she still has to heal," she scolded, and left the hut. They all looked ashamed and pouted but I hugged them close. Kohana whimpered, "I was so scared that they were going to send you away Nee-san," she said and the twins nodded, "Papa wouldn't let us leave, he said that we couldn't see you. We even tried to trick him, but he's too clever. He saw through all our fox illusions." I smiled, "Well, it's alright, I'm not going to go away, I promise."
They beamed, and all three gathered me in their collective arms and hugged me. I saw a form in the doorway, just a silhouette, but I recognized the form and nodded my head. The twins looked disappointed, "Papa, we just got here, can't we please stay and play with her?"
Shippou should his head, "You heard Maeko, she still needs to rest and heal." They sighed and gave me one more hug, both winking at me in a way that I knew I would probably have visitors in the middle of the night, then hurried out the door after their father. I wondered why he didn't join in the meeting as well, and made a point to remember to ask later. Kohana was scooped up by Maeko, protesting of course, and I vaguely heard the words, "bath" and "dirty" as they vanished from ear sight.
I rose to my feet, and walked into the room that had been mine for several days, gathered up my bag, and my clothes and headed back into the main room. Kagome and Inuyasha were speaking softly with Keitaro and all three turned to look at me.
"I thank you all for your kindness, but it isn't right that I have put Keitaro from his room for so long. The nights are warm, I can sleep outside." Kagome placed her hands on her hips and I cringed slightly. I knew that pose, it was the pose all mothers had when their children said something stubbornly stupid.
"Do not be ridiculous, you are our guest, and I most certainly won't let you sleep outside on the dirt. If this about not telling us your secret, do not feel that we want to throw you out. Now put your things down in the corner. In the least, if you truly feel bad about putting Keitaro out, then you can still sleep under our roof. I'll bring out your futon and place it here in the main room."
I nodded dumbly, "Thank you, but don't trouble yourself. I'll move it myself." I turned to head outside.
"Dinner will be prepared shortly," she said softly and I looked over my shoulder, "I need some time to myself, but thank you for your hospitality." I walked out the door, and decided I needed to get away from everyone. Careful to make sure no one saw me, I headed into the woods and traveled around the village. When I had reached the other side of the village, I emerged from the wood line, looked around, and quickly headed up the stairs.
I felt dizzy by the time I reached the top, and sat down in the shade of the same tree from that morning. With a sigh, I closed my eyes and leaned back against the trunk. After a moment of silence, I opened them again, looking at the shrine.
"Boy, could I use your help right about now Kaede," I whispered softly. "Maybe even some of your wisdom, because I'm so completely lost right now. Now they all hate me, or fear me and I'm not sure what is worse. And I'm scared. I don't know what these things are, and I don't want to die in this strange land, all alone. I feel like I'm missing something, something very important, something that could defeat them, but I'm not sure what."
I pulled my knees up to my chest, ignoring the protest from my back, and rested my chin on my knees. Everything was so blessedly still, and I relaxed.
"Why didn't you tell them?" came a voice above me.
"It wasn't my place, "I whispered softly, and heard the rustle of leaves, and the creaking of a branch. I knew he moved to the branch that was just above my head.
"But then you wouldn't have looked so guilty," he said, "If you told them I learned your language as well, and then it would have seemed more a mistake."
I shook my head, "I don't expect you to understand," I began and he snorted. "Oh? Am I too stupid?"
I sighed, "Shut up and let me finish," I snapped, and he did so. "I was saying, I don't expect you to understand me, and the way I think. I don't tell personal things to other people, its nosy gossip and I refuse to have any part of it. For the same reason I didn't tell Kohana who that incense is really burning for over there. It's none of her business till your father or mother tells her. You want to tell them you speak English now, go right ahead, but other than that, it is something that remains between the two of us."
I felt air brush my head and looked up. Keitaro was dangling from his knees from the branch, and his face was level with mine as he stared at my face. I watched him, still as I could possibly be. His eyes fell on my forehead, and I felt a little ashamed, remembering the kiss that was place there.
He sniffed slightly and frowned, "Kaemon has too much of my uncle in him, he's not the sort of person you should become attached to," he said softly.
I felt my lips twitch, wanting to smile, "And how would you know what sort of person I should become attached to? That would involve you actually getting to know what kind of person I am, and I'm sure you don't want to bother."
He frowned and his eyes narrowed into tiny slits, "I know you didn't just get the language from me, I know you probably picked up my memories as well." I blinked and opened my mouth, "I know because I've picked up yours as well." My eyes widened, "Which ones?" I stuttered, and he grinned.
"Ah, that is my other secret," he grinned mischievously and I pursed my lips, looking away. His hand came up and grasped my chin in it, turning my face back to his.
"You shouldn't look so angry and cold all the time," he said and I let the sarcasm drip from my voice, "Why not?"
"Because you're much more beautiful when you're smiling, especially when you're with the pups," he said softly and I felt a blush rise to my cheeks. "Do you have any?"
I blinked in surprise and pulled my chin away from his hands, as he grabbed a hold of the branch, unlocked his knees and landed on the ground before me, crouched.
"I..I don't think that's your business," I stammered, and he grinned, leaning close. "You don't smell like you have a mate," he whispered, leaning so close I could feel his breath on my cheek as he spoke.
"Ke..Keitaro, what are you," I whispered and he leaned back on his haunches, grinning mischievously.
"A bit warm, are we?" he said, and I blinked.
"Oh! You!" I screamed and tried to tackle him but he moved out of the way. "Francesca, you had better learn to keep up your defenses a little better, or my cousin is going to sweep you away so fast, you won't know what hit you till you fall," he said, rising to his feet.
"I have no intentions falling for your cousin, or anyone else for that matter," I said stubbornly, and he paused, looking at me a moment, before nodding.
"No, I don't suppose you would," he replied looking almost sad for a moment, and before I could ask him why, he dashed away.
"Damn him and his sneaky tricks," I muttered and rose to my feet, gathering my belongings again and made the trek back to the hut.
