Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.
Authors Notes: Kudos to my 200th reviewer and faithful reader… shippousangoffe!
Hi everyone! It's time to enter the second phase of this story. I sincerely hope the question of the 'Sphere of Reflections' will be answered in this chapter. I can see you guys are good at trivia!
Thanks for the reviews and comments; a special to my anon. reviewers: pookie – welcome to this fanfic, dsavage – wonderful summary, Z.M. – I think everything you want is here and Kohana – I expect a response on your triangle.
Please read, enjoy and leave a review!
Part II
We worry about what a child will become tomorrow,
yet we forget that he is someone today.
Stacia Tauscher
Chapter 21: Heir
"Those two are at it again!"
The group of villagers watched as the two boys raced by at a speed unnatural for any human. One had silver hair, the other the darkest ebony; theirs was a friendly competition that occurred once every few days.
"I'm going to beat you this time, nii-san!" Five-year-old Awasumaru yelled to his competitor.
"In your dreams, otouto-san," Juun, two years older, shouted back.
Both ran like the wind towards the tall tree on the outskirts of the village. Awasumaru was naturally swift; however, he knew Juun controlled the winds that propelled him forward. His foster brother's feet barely touch the ground as he raced beside him.
Juun did not need sight; he knew the layout of their home better than his little brother did. He also knew that someday soon, Awasumaru would beat him; it was inevitable. Sensing the tree nearby, the blind child leaned forward to reduce the resistance of the air around him.
Pulling away from his opponent, Juun touched the tree first, circled once and then sank to his knees. Awasumaru was right behind him, touching the tree a few seconds later. Dropping to the ground, the younger boy turned glittering bronze orbs on the winner.
"I can feel you glaring at me, Awasumaru," Juun said humorously. "You were three seconds better than the last time; that should make you happy."
"Really!" The young half demon brightened. "Just three," he said, calculating in his head. Smiling widely, he fell on his brother and put him in a headlock. "Next time," he said tightening his grip.
"Like I said," the older boy laughed as he tussled with Awasumaru. "In your dreams."
Juun stood up with his little brother still dangling from his neck. "Get on my back," he said. "I'll give you a ride home."
"I lost," the half demon said, "I should give you the ride." However, it did not stop him from taking the offer.
"Yeah, but you've gotten better," Juun said as they turned to the village.
A light breeze moved through the valley, lifting Awasumaru's ponytail as they headed home. Juun's dark unbound locks blew around his face as he carried his brother home.
"Youbo-sama made gyoza's today," the older boy said.
Dumplings were his little brother's favorite food. He would eat them everyday if his foster mother, Kikyou, would allow it. She had made them today as a special treat.
"What!" Awasumaru peered over Juun's shoulders to look him in the eyes and make sure he was not teasing. His older brother was not as outgoing as he was, therefore most did not know that Juun had a mischievous nature.
"Saw her making them myself," he nodded to confirm.
With a loud whoop, Awasumaru hopped from his brothers back and began running towards their home. "You'd better hurry, Juun-san," the young half demon threw over his shoulder. "If you don't, I can't promise I won't eat them all!"
"Little imp!" the older boy laughed and ran behind him. Awasumaru was telling the truth, he would indeed eat them all.
xXxXx
It had been five years since he had stood in this very room. Stoic words and empty promises had flowed from his lips, but she had not thought so then.
Kikyou sat on her futon, brushing her hair with slow languid strokes. Another year, another day went by and there was no sign of Sesshomaru. Had he forgotten his promise to return for his son or had he decided to abandon him?
With a sigh, Kikyou put down the brush and rose to her feet. Sliding into her robe, she left to check on the boys.
Awasumaru and Juun shared Natsumi's old room. The only friend she had ever known was gone now. The older woman had passed away quietly in her sleep two years ago. Natsumi had requested that her remains be cremated and her ashes offered to the wind.
"I have always wanted to travel, Kikyou-san. Since I could not in life; why not in death?"
The older woman would laugh, but Kikyou knew that she had meant that.
Juun had stood stiffly beside her during the memorial. The boy appeared cold and unfeeling, but Kikyou knew he was hurting inside. He had shown no emotion, had not shed a tear, at least not in front of the others.
Kikyou and Awasumaru had joined Juun as they traveled to the highest point in the village. Opening the urn containing Natsumi's ahses, the boy had released them into the air. Moving his hands and arms in soft circular motions, Juun had used the power of the winds to scatter them. Only then, did the boy break down and give in to the grief of losing the only mother he had ever known.
Kikyou understood Juun; the boy reminded her of herself. The young descendent of the air deities and her now her foster son was an observer; the world had to come to him. Other than Kikyou, Awasumaru and Rin, he never initiated a conversation or barely interacted.
The boy was witty and fun loving, but very few saw that side of him. He had never let anyone outside of his small circle of friends get close to him. However, Kikyou had promised Natsumi that she would encourage him to socialize.
Looking down on Juun's sleeping form curled in a fetal position, Kikyou bent down to pull the covers over him. Everyone assumed that this boy was her birth son. They had the same dark hair; dark eyes and their detached demeanor was the same.
Turning to Awasumaru, she saw her son sprawled on his stomach. His arms and legs were spread across his futon, making full use of his bedding.
He was the mirror image of Sesshomaru, with the exception of the eyes. His long silver hair, kept in a high ponytail, fell down his back. However, the similarity ended there.
Kikyou had to admit that, on the surface, Awasumaru's personality was very different from his parents. The boy was open and friendly; his curiosity knew no bounds and usually landed him in some type of trouble.
That was Natsumi's influence; she had encouraged and fed his inquisitive nature. Kikyou remembered the day her son had come home covered in wasp stings.
"I only wanted to see where they live!"
Awasumaru protested as Kikyou applied a poultice to his inflamed skin, all the while lecturing him. The area would heal without her administrations, but it itched and the boy could not stop scratching.
The young half demon was downhearted, knowing his mother was upset with him. It was only natural he would turn to Natsumi for comfort.
Pulling the boy on her lap, the older woman had given her own brand of motherly advice.
"It is quite all right to see where they live, Awasu-kun, but you should not have tried to move in with them."
Yes… Natsumi was surely missed.
Over the years, Rin, Idzuna and Jaken had visited often and Mouko came once each season. Awasumaru had visited the Westernlands, but had not met his father. The boy had returned saying he had enjoyed his stay and that he really liked Yoippari-sama and thought Jadoku strange. He complained that the house was big enough to play in, but no one would let him.
Jaken had badgered the young lord the entire time he was there. The toad had tried to instruct the boy on proper attire and manners, preparing him for his father's return. It only served to annoy Awasumaru that he could not wait to go home.
Kikyou never visited; there was no reason. She realized that her body had only been a vessel for the heir to the west. A harsh reality to face, but it was not without its rewards.
Awasumaru may be Sesshomaru's son, but she was his mother. When this life exhausted, she would live on through her only child. She would never again feel the loneliest she had before, she had friends and the love of both her sons.
With a smile and a final look at the two sleeping boys, Kikyou silently closed the shoji.
xXxXx
"Advance! Thrust! Parry!" Pyuuma's voice rang out as Shishi followed her instructions. "Tighten your grip when you thrust, Shishi-kun." The lioness watched him practice using his father's naginata.
Five years ago, the boy had sat in a cave and watched the battle to protect his home unfold in front of him. Since that day, Shishi had practiced diligently. He wanted to be as strong, if not stronger, than the seven youkai that had helped reclaim his lands. As the young lion practiced, he recalled that day…
The ground trembled beneath his feet as Shishi stood in the cave's entrance. The dust from the plains rose high in the air as the chimera rushed towards the small group of youkai.
Tsuru - the crane was the first to attack. Running into the mist of the chimera, Shishi was sure she had been trampled. Suddenly, he looked up to find her suspended above ground. With her streaked hair and garments floating around her, Tsuru spun and two whips appeared in her hands.
She gave a tinkling laugh as she descended lightly to the ground only to leap gracefully away with each attack from the chimera. With lightening speed, her whips struck out and disintegrated everything in her path. She spun and twirled elegantly, all the while making their destruction look like a dance.
Shishi's eyes turned to his brother. He had never expected to see his brother standing before him as he had run from the castle the night before. The boy had thought he was dreaming until Raion's arms closed around him.
Watching him now, no one would guess his brother had recently been near death. He wielded the golden naginata the same as their father had, slicing through the chimeras with ease.
The boy could only watch with pride as Raion impaled one of the beasts with his weapon. Lifting both weapon and beast, he used it as club. Swinging it back and forth, he rammed it into the other chimeras to clear a path for the leopard warrior.
Hikyuu had been fighting with brute strength and claws. Breaking free of the pack, Shishi noticed the leopard had a weapon… she carried a surujin.
Jumping high into the air, she tossed the rope-like weapon and aimed for the legs of the huge beast. The surujin spiraled and wrapped around their appendage, bringing the chimera down.
Turning his head away, Shishi could not bear the sight of Hikyuu's final move… the disembowelment. The boy had to admit, although he could not stomach her method, the leopard warrior was thorough.
Hearing a familiar cry, Shishi searched the field for Pyuuma. He saw her standing off to the side as three chimeras attacked her. He gasped as the beast came at her all at once.
Positioning her spear behind her, he saw the lioness crouch low. Rising suddenly, Pyuuma pivoted on the ball of one foot, kicked out the other leg to give momentum to her spin. With nimble fingers, she twirled the spear overhead. The rapid rotation of her weapon tore apart each beast that came within range.
Smiling to himself, Shishi wondered when Pyuuma had become so accomplished with her spear. The smile left his face as he saw another chimera heading for the lioness. If she did not move soon, she would be blindsided.
Shishi stepped forward to call out her name. With the battle raging, there was no way that she could hear him from this distance.
Pyuuma turned just as the beast made to pounce, but suddenly Shishi caught sight of a blur and heard the beast squeal in pain. Mouko hit the beast low, using his broad shoulders to lift it into the air and knocked it clear across the field.
The young lion watched as Mouko turned to Pyuuma and he appeared to scold her. The two exchanged words; the lioness tossed her golden mane and turned her back on the tiger to take on another chimera. Shishi almost laughed as Mouko ran frustrated fingers through his hair before going back into battle.
The dragon lord, Shugoryuu, fought like the leopard. Shifting movements and claws, he moved and struck so quickly the chimera felt nothing as they were obliterated.
As with the lioness, a pack of chimera attacked him at once. The dragon shot from the ground and ascended high in the air. Rotating at amazing speed, he plunged headfirst back to earth. As the pack closed in on his descent, Shugoryuu stopped and hovered overhead. With a flick of his wrist, balls of fire appeared in the palms of his hands encasing the chimera in flames. Their cries were silenced as their bodies burned beyond recognition.
Sesshomaru moved effortlessly through the chaos. Shishi admired the control in which he wielded his weapon. The sword seemed to hum with the taiyoukai's graceful execution. He walked through the masses untouched, but eliminating his foe with meticulous skill.
Unlike Shugoryuu and Hikyuu's agile evasions, Sesshomaru and Tsuru seemed to teleport. One never actually saw them move, they simply appeared.
The taiyoukai dodged an attack and ascended above ground. Thrusting the Tokijin forward, the sword pulsed and demonic aura radiated from the blade. The energy struck the chimera hissing below, stripping the very flesh from their bones.
The tiger did not dodge or evade anything, but charged head on. Shishi noticed the blades at his side, but Mouko never drew them.
Looking on, the young lion vowed he would be as strong as they were. "One day, Kyuuso," he said to the mouse on his shoulder. "I will be like them. One day I will protect my home and family."
Returning to the present, Shishi remembered his vow and renewed his efforts.
"You two have been at it for hours now!" Raion's tawny mane came into view. The lion leaned over the balustrade and peered down on them from above the courtyard. "How about taking a break?"
Pyuuma looked to Shishi, the boy smiled and nodded in agreement. Climbing the stairs, they reached the top level and joined Raion on the veranda. After taking refreshment, Shishi was off again, allowing the two adults some time alone.
Raion's gaze was warm as he reached across the table to take Pyuuma's hand. "How long will you stay this time?" he asked.
"Just a few days, if… that is all right with you?"
"Of course it's all right," the lion said. "This is your home, after all."
Pyuuma looked away. Raion knew he was pressuring her again, but he could not help it. After the battle, the lioness had left again. At least this time, he knew why. This discussion was long over due and he would have his say before she bolted again.
"I'm sorry, Pyuuma… I'm sorry he never acknowledged you," Raion said softly.
As he spoke, he gripped her hand tighter to keep her in place. Each time the subject was brought up; the lioness would turn and run. He was surprised when she gripped his hand in return.
"It does not bother me as much as it did once," said Pyuuma. "The more I thought about it, Raion, I more I realized that our father did acknowledge me in his own way."
Raion had always known that his father cared for Pyuuma, his offspring from a human woman. Since the day Mateisouka had brought her home, he had taken on the role of big brother to the young half demon child.
The lion recalled the first time he saw her. With large frightened eyes and halo of golden hair framing her small face, she arrived at the castle after her mother had died. Although she was also his child, Lord Mateisouka had never called her daughter. Their father had provided lodgings for her, she was given the same opportunities as he and Shishi, except for what had mattered most.
"Do you resent him?" Raion asked.
"No," she sighed. "Not anymore. I cannot condone his way of thinking, Raion-san, but Mouko has helped me to understand… a little."
"I see," Raion said. "Mouko suffers also having been exiled from his own home. He is such a jovial fellow; one would think he did not have a care in the world."
"You have chosen a good mate, my sister; you two seem good for each other." The lion rose from the table and walked to the railing to look over Southernlands. "I tried to make you happy while you were here, Pyuuma-chan, please believe that."
"I was happy, Raion." The lioness came to stand beside him and they both looked down into the courtyard where Shishi practiced. "That is why I returned… that is why I fought at your side… for that and to protect our little brother."
xXxXx
Sitting on the edge of the futon, Awasumaru watched his mother pack. He saw her stop, tuck a strand of hair behind her ear and knew she was thinking.
"Bandages," the half demon said suddenly.
"What?" Kikyou looked down at her son.
"You're forgetting the bandages."
Jumping from the futon, the child walked over to the basket in the corner. Taking out a bunch freshly laundered, he brought them to his mother and resumed his seat.
"Thank you," Kikyou smiled and added them to her bundle.
Awasumaru sat and watched his mother. To him, her smile was like the sun, warm and inviting. Her beautiful hair was tied back with a white ribbon; she wore a plain white keso and dark colored hakamas.
He had only seen her in a kimono once, during Natsumi's memorial. Awasumaru had thought she looked like the empress of a royal family. Not only was his mother pretty, but besides Juun, she was the strongest human he knew.
The same gentle hands that took care of the sick, could execute archery with accurate precision. Equipped with her spiritual powers, arrows and yumi, Kikyou protected their village from wayward youkai.
No matter her powers, Awasumaru realized she was still only human. Just like Natsumi, his mother would die. However, he vowed to protect her from any accidents or mishaps, hoping to extend her life as long as possible. Although Kikyou had tried to prepare him, he did not know what he would do without her.
"How long will you be away, haha-ue?"
He hated it when she left the village, especially when he could not go with her. There was an outbreak of an unknown illness at a neighboring village. Not sure if it was contagious, his mother had instructed that he and Juun stay home this time.
"Just a few days," she said.
"Can I…" Awasumaru began.
"No," his mother interrupted calmly.
"But…"
"I said no, Awasumaru." Kikyou's voice was firm. "Besides, your father may come for you today," the miko said. "If you go with me, you may miss his visit."
"Not that again!"
The half demon thought and sniffed haughtily. Each time he heard that, he wanted to puke. She had been saying that for as long as he could remember and the 'great Lord Sesshomaru' had yet to make his grand appearance.
Looking up from her packing, Kikyou caught the expression on her son's face. He was the mirror image of his father at that moment, with his nose stuck in the air and his arms crossed over his chest. Whenever her son was annoyed, frustrated or upset, Sesshomaru's traits, and some of her own, rose to the surface.
"What is wrong?" Kikyou asked.
The boy mumbled something unintelligible.
"I am sorry," Kikyou said in a stern voice, "I could not hear that."
"He won't come," Awasumaru mumbled louder. "He'll never come."
Anger rose in Kikyou swift and strong, but it was not directed at her son. This was Sesshomaru's fault, he had lied and she had unknowingly supported him these past years.
Maybe it was time to stop believing. From now on, Kikyou decided not mention it to her son again. Moving to stand in front of the boy, the miko laid a hand on top of his bent head and then pulled him into her arms.
"We will talk more when I return," she said softly.
Kikyou had never lied to her son. From the moment, he was able to understand, she had explained the differences between them. She had gently informed him of their life cycles and how his would extend far beyond hers. Demons lived much longer lives than humans did.
Juun, although a descendant of the air deities, was far too removed for the prolonged life. His powers were only stronger because both his parents were descendants. Her foster son, like her, would only live human years.
In the first twenty years of a hanyou's life, they aged like human children. After the twentieth year, their age slowed to that of a full-fledged youkai. Five hundred years from now, Awasumaru would still look twenty-one years of age.
"The horse is ready, Youbo-sama," Juun said as he entered the room.
With her arms around both boys, Kikyou exited their home. Climbing atop the horse, she looked down at her sons.
"Take care of each other," she said nudging the mount forward. "I shall return in a few days."
xXxXx
Jadoku moved through the corridors of the council and felt a sense of pride at the accomplishments of the last few years.
The council was, once again, intact. Lord Kaguma had replaced Chinjuu as the head and ten new members had been screened and selected. Sesshomaru, Raion, Hikyuu and Tsuru, due to their valiant and unselfish battle in the Southernlands, were amongst them.
Shogoryuu took some convincing, but agreed on one condition; Jadoku had to ensure he did not have to work closely with Sesshomaru. The snake stated he could manage that and the deal was set.
Although all was right within the council, there were losses as well. Lord Kaguma had lost his son. Kurokuma had, once again, faced Mouko on the battlefield and lost.
The bear youkai suffered in silence on hearing the news. Mouko was wary on returning to the council knowing Kurokuma's demise was at his hands. The tiger held Lord Kaguma in high regard, but his son would not surrender peacefully.
As he approached the bear in his chamber, Mouko bowed low but could not look the grieving father in his eye. It was not until Lord Kaguma laid a hand his shoulder that the tiger lifted his head.
No words were necessary as the two youkai looked in each other's eyes. Slapping Mouko's shoulders in amity, Lord Kaguma walked away.
Hebi had lost an eye during the battle with Chinjuu. His sister had fought bravely, but was struck while delivering her paralysis venom. Although injured, she had continued to fight until the end.
Jadoku had fretted during her convalescence; making frequents visits while she had healed. The snake knew his sister was well, the day he walked in to find her sashaying in front of a mirror sporting a new eye patch.
"Otouto-chan!" Hebi turned to her brother. With hands on her hips, she turned one way and then the other. "What do you think?"
"Stunning, Hebi-chan," Jadoku actually smiled. "You look mysterious."
Heading to the council chamber, the snake almost smiled again remembering her sultry laugh.
They had all done their jobs and he hoped for the best, but only time would tell. Opening the council doors, he had just received word from Totousai that Sesshomaru was returning.
xXxXx
Traveling through realms had a surreal like quality. Sesshomaru floated towards the light leading home. How much time had passed since he had entered the 'Sphere of Reflections'?
It did not take the taiyoukai long to realize that this mission was a ruse. There was no youkai attempting to defect to the outer realms. Sesshomaru discovered this once entering the sphere. Who would want to escape to such a desolate place? However, he did find something of importance there.
While traveling through the realm, the taiyoikai noticed the skies were filled with images of past lives. After realizing he was the only one on the vast plain of memories, Sesshomaru had turned to leave. However, before he could past through the barrier he had caught sight of an image that left him spellbound.
He saw a reflection of himself as a child. He was kneeling by a stream with an injured shoulder that bled. Sesshomaru remembered that place; the oasis where he had first become intimate with Kikyou.
As the taiyoukai stood looking up, the childhood memory unfolded before him…
The boar was tougher than he had thought, grunted the son of the Inu no Taisho. A young Sesshomaru struggled to release his injured arm from his kimono.
He had it all figured out. He would mend his injuries in the healing stream, return to the castle before his parents arrived and have Yoippari-sama fix his kimono before his mother discovered it was torn.
A damaged kimono would only lead to more questions. It would only be a matter of time before his parents realized he was not where he was supposed to have been. Against his father's wishes, a young inu youkai had gone to challenge the son of the boar demon in his own den.
Yacho had insulted the Inu no Taisho. As his son, Sesshomaru had to defend his father's honor. Enraged, the two young demons clashed.
The taiyoukai won, as he was the superior fighter, but not without repercussions. An arm injury from the beast's tusks and a new kimono that his mother had given him was ripped. Still struggling with his garments, Sesshomaru stiffened hearing soft footsteps behind him.
"Anger breeds recklessness, my son," his mother's voice sounded from behind him.
Sesshomaru dared not move as his mother leaned down him and slid the kimono from his shoulders. Tearing part of the sleeve, she dipped it into the healing waters and began to cleanse her son's wounds.
"One should never enter a battle in anger," his mother said. "It clouds your judgment, causes a lack in strategy and loss of focus; thus becoming an asset to your opponent."
"You either suppress your anger and enter battle or… you wait until your temper has cooled and then engage."
"Yes, mother," Sesshomaru responded to his mother's stoic tones. Although she had now torn the garment beyond repair, he still awaited her lecture about disobeying.
Seeing the wound disappear, the female youkai turned her son to face her. With her emotionless eyes fixed on him, Sesshomaru flushed and looked away. Lifting the damaged garment, he turned back with a contrite look.
"The kimono is nowhere near as important as what it shrouds." With that said, she rose to her feet. "Come, my son," she said imperiously. "There is no need for your father to know of this. Let us go home now"
The image vanished, jolting Sesshomaru back to the present and he wondered when he had forgotten that time with his mother. He had not understood her words or their meaning until now. Had the bitterness he felt at her leaving buried those memories deep within?
Lifting his head, the taiyoukai searched the sky for another image from the past. Floating into the air, he scanned the horizon. It took him four days, or so he thought, to gain insight.
Sesshomaru searched for and reviewed visions of himself, his father and mother, Izayoi and Inuyasha and even Kikyou. With this newfound knowledge, the taiyoukai headed home with a strong desire to see his son and… his mate.
xXxXx
For three days, Mouko had camped out on top of the mountain. The tiger lay on his back, hands behind his head with his feet dangling over the side of the cliff.
This was where Sesshomaru had entered the 'Sphere of Reflections'. After four years, the taiyoukai was finally returning home. Did the taiyoukai know how long he had actually been away? If he did not, he was in for some pleasant and not so pleasant surprises.
Sesshomaru would be pleased with the progress of the council, the Westernlands was intact and his son, Awasumaru, was happy and healthy; a strong son that would make him proud.
During Mouko's last few visits to Kikyou's village, the boy seemed indifferent at the mention of his father's name. It concerned the tiger that he did not ask questions about Sesshomaru the way he had before. Awasuamru simply listened politely without comment. On mention that his father would return soon, the boy only smiled and shrugged his shoulders.
It was the same with Kikyou. Whenever the taiyoukai's name was brought up, the young mother would suddenly find something to do. It was clear that she was tired of waiting for Sesshomaru to keep his promise.
The tiger knew that his comrade had intended to honor his vow to protect his son. No one was more surprised than Mouko, when Sesshomaru returned to the Southernlands following the battle. Everyone stared wide-eyed at the stoic public announcement that he had a son. Everyone was speechless, with the exception of Tsuru.
"What youkai in her right mind would…" the crane began, but Hikyuu intervened by clamping a hand over Tsuru's mouth.
The others had not known about Kikyou, nor did they know that the child was a half demon. Raion and Pyuuma had suspected, but Sesshomaru had not elaborated further. However, the fact that he had admitted that much was a big step for his comrade.
Staring up at the sky, Mouko thought about the battle in the Southernlands. Had it not been for Sesshomaru, he would not be here now. Closing his eyes, the tiger recalled that day…
Everything was going according to plan. Mouko and the others had only Omyouji's chimera to fight. Kyuuso had reentered the castle before the battle bearing the Southernlands crest and a note to the head sentry.
The mouse had informed the southern army that Raion was alive. The family crest the lion lord wore the day he had disappeared was proof. Omyouji's treachery and the threat on Shishi's life were also revealed. They prepared for battle and were instructed to hold the castle from the inside against the chimera. That was a relief to Raion, as he would not have to fight his men.
As Mouko battled, he also tried to keep an eye on Pyuuma. The lioness handled herself well, but the tiger's past was coming back to haunt him. He had lost Midoriko to battle; he could bear to go through that again.
The lioness was having a hard time with three chimeras; Mouko moved forward to help, but stopped as Raion got to her first. It was then that he heard a twirling sound behind him. The tiger barely turned before he saw Kurokuma's axe blade aiming for his back.
A hit was unavoidable whichever way he moved. With the force of the bear's projectile, the tiger knew there was little chance he could catch the blade. Bracing his body, he had to try.
Suddenly, Sesshomaru appeared in front of him and with one swipe from the Tokijin had Kurokuma's axe spiraling back to its owner.
"Letting your guard down, Mouko-san?" the taiyoukai asked, turning to the tiger. "It seems the coward would rather attack from behind than face you."
Looking past Sesshomaru's shoulder, Mouko saw the smirk on Kurokuma's face as he deftly caught the axe. The bear's stance indicated he awaited the tiger's retaliation. As he moved forward with eyes transfixed on his opponent, Mouko heard Sesshomaru's voice.
"Need I remind you one should never face any opponent more than once," the taiyoukai said. "They only become stronger with each encounter."
"Kurokuma has made his choice," Sesshomaru continued. "I would suggest, Mouko-san, that you end this now."
Jade orbs met gold; the taiyoukai's message was clear. With a nod, Mouko moved towards his prey.
A rapid breeze stirred, interrupting the tiger's musings. Sitting up, Mouko saw a swirling vortex directly above him. Sesshomaru broke from the eye of the maelstrom and floated gracefully down in front of the tiger.
"Well, now… it's about time you got back!" Mouko grinned. "I thought we were going to have to send out a search party."
"Really?" Sesshomaru sniffed. "How long has it been, Mouko-san?"
"Four years, two months, twenty…"
"Four years?" The taiyoukai interrupted as he stiffened in shock.
The tiger waited, allowing Sesshomaru time to adjust to the information. Mouko had to admit, this was the first time he had seen his comrade display any feeling. Various emotions flickered in the taiyoukai's eyes, but each was fleeting. Had he not spent time with him for over a year, Mouko may have missed it himself.
"My son?" Sesshomaru asked, in control once more.
"The boy is fine," Mouko answered. "A bit of a handful, but he is well."
A silence settled between them; Mouko finally sighed and answered Sesshomaru's unspoken question.
"Lady Kikyou is well and… remains unattached."
"Did I ask that?" The taiyoukai snapped and turned glittering orbs on the tiger.
"Ahh… but you did," Mouko smiled a knowing smile. Deciding not to press his luck, the tiger turned to gather his gear. "We should return to the council and let everyone know you have returned."
"A moment, Mouko-san," Sesshomaru said, but turned his back to look out and over the cliff.
"Yes, Sesshomaru-san." The tiger stood behind him, baffled by the taiyoukai's unusual tone.
"Sometime ago you asked if I wanted to hear the truth behind your father's banishment, but I declined." Sesshomaru paused as he felt Mouko's eyes on his back. "You said then that I was not ready," he continued. "I shall hear your story now."
Taking a deep breath, the tiger put down his gear and launched into the tale of a proud father, a rebellious son and his love for a beautiful human priestess.
xXxXx
Removing her tabi socks and zori sandals, Kikyou stepped into the shallow stream. The miko wiggled her toes feeling the cool water on her feet.
She had been on the road for a while and expected to reach the next village before nightfall. Looking upstream, she saw her horse drinking his fill. Hiking up the leg of her hakamas, Kikyou walked further into the stream.
As she waded through the water, she thought about Awasumaru. What could she possibly say to the boy on her return? The anger from earlier had faded away and Kikyou recalled Totousai's words at the time of birth. According to the demon forger, her son needed his father's aid to fulfill his destiny.
Nevertheless, sniffed Kikyou, it did not mean Sesshomaru could continue to disappoint their child. At one time, Awasumaru enjoyed hearing stories of his father from Jaken and Rin. However, in the last year that had changed.
Now, the mere mention of the taiyoukai and their son became withdrawn and sullen. Awasumaru never said anything to her, but she was sure that Juun heard an earful.
With a sigh, Kikyou turned back to dry ground. Putting on her socks and sandals, she walked to her horse and grabbed onto the reins. Turning to lead her mount back to the road, she stopped on hearing children's laughter.
Unable to resist, Kikyou guided her horse downstream following the sound. At the rivers bend she saw two children, a little boy and a girl about Juun's age.
The girl splashed around excitedly in the water and the boy sat near the edge engrossed in a scroll.
"Come on, Shun'ei, let's play!" the girl child yelled.
"No thanks," the boy answered, not looking up from his reading.
Kikyou smiled and was about to turn and leave them to their play when suddenly, she was overcome by a strange feeling. Her spiritual aura pulsed around her and the miko turned wide eyes on the two children at the stream.
Turning back, Kikyou moved slowly in their direction not wanting to scare them. The boy noticed her first and stood slowly as the girl continued to splash in the water. Lifting his head, Kikyou felt the breath leave her lungs.
"Kohaku?"
The girl child's movements ceased; noticing Kikyou, she ran to the boy's side. Instead of running behind him, she stood in front with her arms stretched out.
"Who are you?" the girl demanded.
"I am sorry," Kikyou apologized. "I did not mean to frighten you." The miko looked to both children. The girl looked familiar, but the boy bore a striking resemblance to Kohaku.
"We're not afraid!" the girl sniffed and tossed her head, the two glossy ponytails flying around her head.
"That's enough, Suiren." The boy spoke for the first time. Stepping around the girl, the boy approached Kikyou.
The closer the child came, the stronger his aura. It was if… as if this child…
"I apologize for my sister's rudeness," the boy began. "Do you know our uncle?" The boys question interrupted her thoughts.
"Your… uncle?"
"Yes." The boy did not smile, but his eyes did. "You called me Kohaku," he continued. "That is my uncle's name. Everyone says we look alike."
"Hey, Shun'ei!" The girl child called out. "We are not supposed to talk with strangers; isn't that right Kirara."
Kikyou's head lifted on hearing the name of the youkai cat belonging to the demon slayer, Sango. The neko was perched on the girl called Suiren's shoulders, its head tilted to the side as she watched Kikyou with open curiosity.
Glancing from the cat, to the boy and then to the girl. It suddenly dawned who these children were and a slow smile touched the miko's lips. The girl was her father's twin and the boy was a combination of his uncle and his mother.
"I know your uncle," Kikyou informed the boy in front of her. "Kohaku and I traveled together sometime ago. Pray, Shun'ei-san, tell me; how is he and what is he doing now?"
"My uncle is the head of the slayers village and a teacher."
"I see," Kikyou responded.
So… Kohaku had rebuilt his ancestral home and continued his father's teachings. The wheels began turning in Kikyou's head as she tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
"It was nice meeting you, Shun'ei," the miko said suddenly. "Your sister also," the miko added, although the girl never came close. With a bow, Kikyou turned to leave.
"You have the same light as my Oji-sensei," the boy said and Kikyou knew exactly what he meant. "If you will tell me your name, I will tell my uncle that I met you."
"There is no need," Kikyou responded. "I plan to pay him a visit soon and I would like it to be a surprise."
The boy returned her bow and added, "As you wish," before turning back to his sister.
Leading her horse to the road, the miko thought what an interesting and revealing encounter. As she looked back, she saw Kirara transform, the children climb on its back and take to the skies.
Were the monk and the demon slayer aware of the power their children possessed? The girl's spiritual energy was immense, but unrestrained. The boy… his power was one of the darkest known. Either his power must be contained or he would have to find a semblance of balance. Either way, she now had incentive to pay a visit to the slayers village.
xXxXx
"Well…?"
"Well what?" Juun answered.
"Whose house are we going to for dinner?" Awasumaru asked.
The two boys sat on the hillside overlooking the village. They had both completed their work in the rice fields and had escaped to their favorite spot to rest. It was close to dinnertime and both boys were getting hungry.
Without Kikyou to prepare their meal, they had rely on the other villagers until her return. The boys had quite a few offers and they were trying to decide which one to accept.
"How about Osuzu-sama," Juun said. "After all, she was the first to offer."
"Uhh… I don't know, nii-san," Awasumaru whined. "Her soba noodles taste like water."
Juun fell back in the grass and began to laugh. His little brother was not very tactful when it came to certain issues, food being one of them.
"Stop laughing, otouto-san," the half demon glared at his brother. "I mean… well, Osuzu-sama is very pretty, but she can't cook anything."
This only caused Juun to laugh harder. The boy was too outspoken for his own good and it was funny how Kikyou denied he had inherited from her. Both mother and son had a direct approach on life as well as their speech. To keep the peace, it was safe to say they would not go to Osuzu's tonight.
"I will have to take your word that she is pretty, Awasu-san," the older boy said, sitting up. "However, I have tasted her cooking and I agree with you. How about Isamu-sama's wife… Lady Yuuka?"
"Yes!" The silver haired boy jumped in the air. "She has the best nobeyaki udon," he said excitedly. "Do you think she'll have some tonight?"
"We'll find out soon enough," Juun responded. "So… it's settled. We go to Yuuka-sama's."
Agreed, the boys once again fell into a comfortable silence. Awasumaru's eyes scanned the area; one could see the entire village from this point. Looking over to Juun, the half demon had often wondered how his brother functioned without his sight.
He could not imagine living in a world of complete darkness; never seeing the sun, moon or the stars. Had Juun ever seen a flower, the grass he sat upon or even his grandmother, Natsumi.
Sighing heavily, Awasumaru's eyes turned back to the landscape. He may be blind, but his brother could do extraordinary things. Juun's other senses were almost as keen as his. He loved to watch the fluid movements he made when manipulating the winds. The boy was more graceful than his mother was.
"Something bothering you?"
Turning to Juun's query, Awasumaru started to say something and then changed his mind. "No," he mumbled.
The older boy waited a moment and then asked, "I heard Youbo-sama mention your father today; is that it?"
"Why does she still believe his promises?" The boy sulked.
"Is that wrong… is it wrong for her to have hope, otouto-san, even if you have lost yours?"
"I don't care anymore!" Awasumaru snarled and jumped to his feet. "I hope he never comes!"
Juun reached for his brother and grabbed the back of his keso before he could run off. "Sit down, Awasumaru!" the older boy commanded. He tightened his grip, as the younger boy appeared not to heed his words. "Come sit with me!" he said, softening his tone.
Looking down at the hand holding him in place, the half demon took a seat beside his brother.
"You are lucky Awasumaru to have both your parents," Juun began. "Mine were taken from me before I even knew them."
"Oba-sama told me stories about my mother, but she did not know my father. I would love to have known him, Awasumaru."
"I don't think you should judge your father until you speak with him. When he finally comes to you, give him a chance to tell you what happened."
The younger boy was quiet for so long that Juun gave him a gentle nudge with his shoulder. Awasumaru looked to his older brother with a semblance of a smile. "All right," he said.
Minutes flew by as the boys sat quietly and enjoyed the peacefulness of the evening. Suddenly, a low rumbling flared in Awasuamru's stomach and the sound had Juun rising to his feet.
"I guess that means it's time to go," he smiled and heard his brother stand also. The boys turned and moved towards the village, but a strong sensation overwhelmed them stopping both in their tracks.
For Juun, it seemed the air had become heavy, as if a great force was weighing it down. His ears did not detect anything, but the shift of the wind alerted him that someone or something was approaching.
"Awasumaru?" the older boy questioned.
The younger boy stood still as the he was enveloped in the strongest aura he had ever felt. It was more powerful than his mother's youkai friend, Mouko-sama. Focusing on the area it came from, Awasuamru was unsure if it was safe to stay around such an intense aura. However, there was something familiar about it and curiosity held him still.
Juun grabbed his brother's hand to pull him towards the village. Whatever was out there was strong. He doubted they wanted to wait to see what it was and they would have to alert the villagers.
"Wait!" Awasumaru whispered, but held tight to Juun's hand. Peering through the forest, the half demon's eyes keyed into the source of power and he gasped. His grip tightened on Juun's hand, as a form emerged from the foliage.
Sesshomaru entered the clearing and faced the two boys. His eyes rested briefly on the taller boy before turning to the smaller one. The taiyoukai's eyes traveled over his son; the boy was dirty as if he had been working in the fields. His silver hair was full of grass, leaves and he was barefoot.
Stepping forward, for the first time, Sesshomaru addressed his son.
"Awasumaru, I presume."
The boy looked over the figure standing a few feet away, taking in the same silver hair and pointed ears that he had. He was dressed impeccably, his kimono and hakamas pristine white. Awasumaru's eyes moved over the strange armor combined with the fluffy boa at his shoulders and the two swords sheathed at his hip. The gold eyes never wavered as they stared boldly to the point of rudeness.
Impressive… that was Jaken's description of Sesshomaru; the full-fledged youkai that was his father.
The awe was short-lived as Awasumaru's bronze eyes narrowed in anger. Everything that Juun had said a short time ago was now forgotten. His father did not look at all contrite for his absence and the boy balked at the imperious tone. He did not need him; he could just go away again. Dropping his brother's hand, the half demon child stepped forward, his stance defiant.
"I am Awasumaru!" His tone and demeanor matched that of his father's. "Who are you?"
To be continued…
Authors Notes: In the words of "StarvingLunatic" – I am torturing my characters. It seems papa Sesshy has his hands full. Talk about attitude.
Glossary
Youbo-sama – foster mother (how Juun addresses Kikyou)
gyoza – pan-fried dumplings with meat and vegetable stuffing
surujin – a throwing weapon similar to a bola
naginata – a halberd long sword (weapon)
nobeyaki udon – a noodle based soup with meat and vegetables