Chapter 29 :Family Ties Part II

A/N:Hello and Welcome to Chapter 29 Part 2! I'm so sorry for taking so long with his chapter. 2020 was one hell of a year so I really do apologize. I hope you enjoy this chapter and thank you for your continued support!

Sesshomaru continue to surge forward, following the faint scent of those he searched for. Bakusaiga had begun to gently rattle at his side, a taletale sign he was getting close. Worry began to cloud his mind and muddle his better judgement. His inner Youkai had tried to reason with him, insisting that he wait until mating season was over. Though he himself lusted for their intended mate, he refused to sully himself with an illegitimate heir. It was a fool's game to go to her while in such a state of mind. But he would be a fool today.

Even though he'd gained some form of control over himself, he knew it would not last long. He just had to hold out until he confirmed that they were safe. Kimara's strange sickness had also been on his mind and he'd thought of no one better to help him.

Flashback

Once Sesshomaru had determined his path, he realized he needed to contact someone. Only this someone had the power to help her, to heal her. He chose to seek out his brother and his mate, the Miko. A woman, the reincarnation of Midoriko, would have the power to heal his intended. He'd sent word ahead of time for the Miko to meet him just outside the village. The kind young woman had been awaiting his arrival and was quite curious as to why he summoned her. She noticed that he seemed a bit uneasy.

"You don't seem yourself Sesshomaru." She said softly, "What's wrong?"

Pain flashed in his Golden eyes. "Kimara is not well." He said, "My physicians have no knowledge of what is plaguing her."

Kagome was surprised that he was being so transparent with her. The pain that flashed in his eyes was only present when he spoke of Rin or Kimara. He truly felt strongly about them and had accepted them as his family whether he would openly admit it or not. She smiled warmly as she approached him, so glad that he was the one she entrusted with Kimara's wellbeing.

"I'm more than happy to do what I can to help." She said with a big smile.

End Flashback

[Kimara's Subconcious]

The young woman awoke to a sort of dark void, much like the rift between her world and the feudal era. Just about a foot in front of her stood a person with long black hair much like herself. With caution, she approached as she reached her hand out. Before she could get too close, the person turned around as that beautiful black hair turned silver. It was a woman, her eyes hidden beneath her bangs. She pointed a clawed finger at her.

"You don't belong here."

She couldn't help but look quizzically at this stranger. Just who was she and why was she telling her such things? She moved to take another step forward but a force flung her back, casting her out.

Rin

The light had finally died down and Rin was able to uncover her eyes. She allowed her vision to settle a bit before she was able to see clearly. Kimara was sitting on the edge of the bed and Rin was overwhelmed with joy. She moved to hug her but quickly sensed something, pulling her arm back and rolling out of the way as Kimara swiped at her. Rin recovered quickly, getting to her feet and avoiding Kimara's attacks. She was glad that she'd learned evasive moves from her just before all of this started.

"What's wrong?" she inquired, never slowing down.

The woman just continued to snarl and attempt to attack her aimlessly. It seemed as though she was under some sort of spell or something. Memories flooded back from when a similar situation happened to her and her Lord had been there to save her. This time, he wasn't and she had to get herself out of this mess. She continued to run, pushing past whomever was in her way and warning them to stay away. Once she made it to the courtyard and ensured that it was empty, Rin turned to Kimara. A large gap separated them for the time being or until she attacked again.

"Have I upset you in some way?" she asked.

There was no answer as the woman in front of her glared at her, eyes tinged a deep red but her violet orbs pierced through. She knew Kimara was still in there but she just didn't know what was causing all this. She was just so confused by everything and only wanted to understand. Just who was this other entity? Mizuki had gone to the courtyard after the reports of her worried staff. Her eyes grew wide as she assessed the situation. What had happened to put her in such a state? And why was she attacking Rin for whom she cared for so deeply? A scent hit her nose and she soon realized exactly what was going on.

"Rin!" she yelled, "Get away from her!"

Rin turned to heed her words when all she saw was white fade into her vision. Growling sounded in her ears and she was surprised to see the familiar sight of her Lord. He put himself between the two, closing the rift for now, growling ferociously as poison dripped from his fangs. Rin took that as her cue to go to Mizuki with Sesshomaru's approval. Kimara saw her prey move and aimed to go after it but Sesshomaru moved with Rin, never letting his guard down.

'Stand Down and release my intended.'

Her lips curled into a devilish smirk. 'This girl is nothing more than a vessel to do with as a I please.'

'A vessel?' he challenged, 'You dare to harm what is mine?'

He charged her, blinded with rage at her declaration. Such disrespect towards him or his intended would not be tolerated and he would teach her that. Then all of a sudden, a flash of black and crimson flooded his vision. Sesshomaru was only irritated further at this new addition that disturbed him. Once the slight dust storm cleared, Sesshomaru was met with angry violet eyes and glistening white fangs. He'd never seen a wolf demon assume its true form and thought they were just too weak to achieve such a feat. He was even more impressed when he realized she was a female.

'Don't touch her!' She barked.

Sesshomaru ignored her and pounced, ready to kill anyone who got in his way. Mizuki covered Rin's eyes and looked away at the oncoming slaughter. She was surprised when she didn't hear the sickening sound of bones snapping. When she looked up, she was in complete Awe. Sesshomaru had been pinned down by another Dog Demon! This one was slightly larger in stature and reminded her so much of Inu no Taisho. Just who was this other Silver Inuyoukai?

'Stand down, pup.' Said the newcomer, voice hard yet oddly calm.

Silence filled the courtyard and Mizuki couldn't look away as she waited for what was going to happen next. Sesshomaru glared intensely into the angry Emerald orbs of this stranger. His mind soon recalled some distant memories the longer he stared and a voice echoed within. Realization quickly set in as his eyes returned to their Golden Amber color.

'Shouran.'

Both Inuyoukai reverted to their humanoid forms while the female wolf remained in hers. Kimara constantly tried to attack her but she easily dodged. The wolf demon spun around, knocking the girl to the ground with her tail. She used enough strength to knock her unconscious but not enough to injure her. Sesshomaru looked on in silent awe as this demoness assumed her humanoid form. The energy that radiated from her was no longer threatening and had been replaced with a warmer, gentler energy. She knelt down next to her and pulled the girl into her arms, holding onto her tightly.

"Who are you?" Sesshomaru questioned, taking a step forward.

The woman stood to her feet, Kimara in her arms. "She's her mother."

Mizuki looked up at the owner of the voice and relief washed over her. Kagome stepped from behind a nearby tree, having witnessed everything. When they'd arrived, Sesshomaru had left her at the gate so that she would not be in harm's way. Kagome had taken upon herself to temporarily weaken the barrier once they'd entered and reinforced it's waning energy once she was inside.

"Kagome."

The miko nodded, suggesting they go inside so they could delve deeper into this pressing matter.

Sesshomaru & Shouran

"What is the meaning of this?"

Sesshomaru's voice was full of annoyance and Shouran winced almost comically because he was expecting this. His Father had reprimanded him on occasion, and he was definitely having Déjà vu. Shouran signed, folding his arms across his chest as he thought of a good way to explain this situation.

"Ah, where to begin." He said, putting a clawed finger to his chin in thought.

The young lord looked at his uncle quizzically. Unlike his Father, his uncle was more playful in Nature but he was also serious when he needed to be. They were truly brothers, he had to give him credit. As his uncle began to spin his tale, Sesshomaru honestly couldn't bring himself to pay attention. He couldn't stop thinking of Kimara and how he wanted nothing more than to be near her.

"This will have to wait until I know Kimara is out of Danger."

Shouran was quite surprised by his words but remained silent. He was learning and he would not stand in the way of this important lesson.

Kagome & Kimara

Once Kagome had gotten Kimara back to her quarters, she got to work. Placing a hand on her forehead, she closed her eyes to focus as she used her powers to delve deep into her mind. There was a blockage of some sort that fought against her. It would also seem that this was the force behind her sickness and sudden behavior changes. Rin had been quite upset about the matter and Kagome was very concerned. Behind this force, there was some odd demonic power seeping through.

"Kagome?"

Mizuki poked her head in, hoping the young woman had an answer to her questions. Inuyasha's mate was well known even in the Youkai world just as much as she was in the Mortal Realm. She was one of the many that had rid the world of that insufferable half demon, Naraku and many others that threatened both Realms. She was also Kind and did not deny any human or Demon because of that same kindness. Her power as a priestess was more than worthy of talk as it was on par with the ancient priestess Midoriko.

"I can sense demonic energy within her." She began, "But its fighting against me, blocking me out."

Mizuki entered the room, interested yet cautious of her words. "Could it be the Mark of Courtship?"

Kagome inspected the crescent moon that adorned Kimara's left shoulder. Oddly enough, she couldn't really sense anything besides small traces of Sesshomaru's demonic aura. When she shook her head, Mizuki became even more concerned. She didn't want Sesshomaru to lose his one chance at true happiness and to be cast back into emptiness.

"I believe I have a Solution." Said a voice.

Aki entered the room, having been standing just outside the door. She had been hoping that Kagome would come up with a solution but unfortunately she had nothing to offer. She would need more time that they did not have. Mizuki and Kagome watched as the woman went to sit on the bed.

"Releasing her demonic markings is the only way to help her."

Relief washed over Mizuki while shock engulfed Kagome. Was she hearing things correctly? It was such a simple matter but if that was so, why hadn't it been done already? Aki felt their stares as she stroked her daughter's cheek.

"You see." She said softly, "Kimara was born of Inuyoukai and Wolf Decent; her Father being the Inuyoukai and I, the wolf. Unfortunately, Kimara's father and I aren't on good terms. Shortly after she was born, I ran away in order to protect her. From my clan, from her Father and any others who would cause her harm."

Kagome had never known that about Kimara's mother. Her mother would mention that they'd known each other for quite some time and now she knew just how far that friendship had transcended. Right now, her friend's safety was all that mattered. Anything else came second.

"If that's the case, who's going to release them if you can't?"

Kagome realized it was a delicate question but she was quite curious, especially if this was the only solution. The most she could do was to pour her energy into her to keep that power in check. Even though she was confident in her powers, she doubted it would help if that energy kept accumulating.

"I will."

All three women looked up to see the man from earlier accompanied by Sesshomaru. Just what connection could he have in all of this?

Western Castle

"The little bitch deserved it!"

Yura grabbed the woman by the collar of her kimono and slammed her against the wall. She just had to keep baiting her until she snapped and she had been trying so hard not to. Kasumi tried pulling Yura away from Toru but she shrugged her off. Toru smirked but soon trembled as Yura's dark eyes bore into hers. It was like she was being set on fire by the need to kill in them and it threatened to engulf her.

"My job is to rid the West of people like you." She growled, striking fear within her.

Yura's claws glistened as they extended before she swiped her across the face, drawing blood and leaving three bleeding wounds. The woman howled in pain as she grabbed her cheek and cowered against the wall. Yura tasted the blood on her claws, relishing in the 'hunt' of the cause of her anger.

"Lock her the Castle Dungeon until I decide her punishment."

Some guards came to take her away, leaving the two women. Kasumi was absolutely horrified at seeing what her friend had done. This was the exact reason she had not disclosed the attack on Rin. She simply called her here for the darkness that was brewing within the Western Castle.

"Yura." She said softly.

The woman in question nodded, flinging the blood from her claws. "I will purge this castle of any remaining threats."

Kagome and Aki

Kagome had temporarily sealed the other demonic Aura to keep it at bay during the night. Before that power could be released, Kimara's body had to be strong enough. The temporary seal would allow her to rest and regain her strength. Aki then noticed the Cresent moon present on her left shoulder and she frowned.

"Is that…?"

Mizuki looked over her shoulder and noted the courting mark on her left shoulder. She could tell that Aki wasn't too happy about it. She was a mother after all. But even so, she would have to come to terms with the fact that her daughter would end up marrying one day.

"It is." Mizuki said nervously, " She and Sesshomaru are currently courting."

Aki tensed up, worry taking over. "Kimara doesn't truly understand what that means. " she defended, "She's a child."

Mizuki laughed nervously. Kimara may have been naïve about some things but she had a good head on her shoulders and she was far from a child.

"To her credit, Kimara is quite educated." Mizuki said with a smile, " She has a colorful personality and she has you to thank for that despite her parental background."

Aki blushed, happy to know that her daughter didn't suffer in the ways she thought she would.

Mizuki's Hideout[The next Morning]

The next morning, Kagome released the seal which allowed Kimara to awaken. She awoke almost immediately and thankfully, within her own right mind. Kagome gave her a smile when she noticed her presence.

"How are you feeling?"

Kimara nodded. "I honestly don't remember the last two days but I feel fine."

"Good." Kagome said, "You have a few visitors, if you're feeling well enough."

'Visitors?' Kimara thought. Who could she be talking about, besides Rin or Mizuki? Who would come here in such harsh weather to see her of all people?

She found herself nodding. "Sure, I'd love the company."

Kagome nodded, excusing herself and leaving the room. A few moments later, a familiar presence emerged. It almost seemed as if she was seeing a ghost. She didn't realize just how much she'd missed him.

"Sesshomaru." She said softly.

The Inuyoukai was at her side within moments to welcome her longing embrace. He hated being away from her for so long and honestly, he didn't want to let her go. But that would have to wait as there was another matter that needed tending to. Sesshomaru wiped her tears then placed a hand on her cheek to which she leaned into.

"There's another matter that we must tend to." He said sternly, pulling his hand away.

Kimara frowned but became curious when two more people entered the room. One looked like he might be related to Sesshomaru and the other one seemed oddly familiar. The woman sat in the chair next to the bed and smiled, her violet eyes glistening.

'M-Mama?" She said in realization. She was not threatened by her presence as it was one that she'd grown up with. But her outer appearance made her wary. Why was she dressed like that and why did she look so….strange? The short hair she'd known all of her life had been replaced with a long ponytail, long tendrils framing her face along with a headband. What was even weirder was the fur she was dressed in and the armor as well.

"Kimara." Aki said softly, pulling her into a gentle hug. Kimara took in her scent, a scent she'd never be able to forget and for some reason it was stronger now. The man standing beside her mother seemed similar to the man she'd use to dream about when she first came to the Feudal Era. Who was he and why was he with her? Tension began to fill the room and she was curious as to why.

Kimara wiggled out of her mother's embrace, more curious than anything. She had so many questions but one kept screaming at her. "What are you doing here?"

"To put it bluntly, your life is grave danger." She began, " The medallion that was created to protect you was separated from you, no longer offering you its magic properties. This specific medallion was made with my fang in order to seal your Demonic energy."

Kimar tared blankly as if she heard nothing her mother was telling her. She crumpled the sheets in her hand and nodded for her to go on, her head already spinning and her stomach flipping. Aki went on, her words shocking her even more. Once she was finished, she took a minute to absorb everything. Kimara leaned forward, her thumbs pressed to her temples.

"I'm not human." She said to herself, "And the build up of Demonic energy is killing me."

Rin and Kagome were just as shocked to learn this information. Mizuki could only imagine how the girl must be feeling, having learned so much about her family. It was bound to get tense from this point forward but she just hoped a decision was reached. Aki nodded, thinking of how to phrase her next words.

"Without that talisman, I'm afraid you don't have much time before the power engulfs you. Aki added, "Kagome was able to place a temporary seal but it won't be enough."

'So that's why Kagome was here.' Kimara mused, annoyed that she didn't put that together. The reason she didn't remember the last two days was because she'd been riddled with a fever. She took a deep breath and replayed her mother's words in her head. From the serious looks on everyone's faces, she could tell she did not have a lot of time until she was devoured by this burning pain. It just seemed that there was a missing link to all of this but she wouldn't push the issue. She could gather more information later as she was beginning to feel tired again.

"I want to rest." She said wearily, "I can make my decision by then."

Aki nodded, content with her decision. She then bid her a good afternoon and left the room, Shouran on her heels. Sesshomaru noticed as sweat began to bead on her forehead and neck, her cheeks flush. Her body was failing her and she would not improve until her demonic markings could be released. He understood her wishes but he did not agree with her waiting.

"Stay with me." She mumbled, grabbing at his sleeve.

The young lord stiffened a bit. His inner youkai had been knocking on the door to his consciousness and he was still on edge. If it were somehow unleashed, Kimara would be at his relentless mercy. But surprisingly, he was quite calm and oddly silent. Sesshomaru nodded, obliging her request. He would stay until she fell asleep and then leave her to rest. Kimara snuggled up to him, his scent relaxing.

Sesshomaru stroked her hair, touching her so delicately as he traced her jawline until he got to her lips. He wanted so badly to kiss those lips but he would restrain himself for now until all of this was over. If he had a taste now, he wasn't sure if he'd transform or not due to the desire. Her soft breathing had evened out as she finally fell asleep. Sesshomaru breathed a sigh of relief and moved carefully so he didn't wake her.

Aki & Sesshomaru

"Lord Sesshomaru, is it?" Aki said softly, "Might I have a word with you?"

Sesshomaru turned to the woman, staring her down as he was unable to get a read on her. He had many questions for her as well. What exactly was the connection between her and Shouran? Honestly. He felt that both of them were hiding more than they let on. He lead her to the room in which he and SHouran were in earlier. Aki turned to him, eyes glistening with a hint of sadness.

"Speak." He said sternly, "What are you hiding from her?"

Aki took in a breath. "After the traumatic event that lead to Kimara's birth, I was informed that her father was an Inuyoukai who had been exiled." She explained, He'd been banned from the Western Territory because of his dealings in forbidden Youkai magic and experiments. His name was Kazuya but he'd changed it after altering his appearance."

"What's his name now?" Sesshoaru inquired, interest piqued.

Aki rubbed her arms, fear taking over. "He goes by Kasai."

Her words shook Sesshomaru to his core as he stared at her with concerned golden eyes. He found himself closer to her, his hand on the wall behind her head as he stared into her eyes. If a child were born of an improper intimacy, the father would soon seek the Bitch out to claim his offspring. He would then kill the mother and raise the child as his own which is what Kasai had been trying to do.

"Did you not think it would've been more beneficial for you to appear before now?" Sesshomaru growled.

Aki bit her lip, realizing he was right but it hurt at the same time. "Stop Sesshomaru."

Both looked up to see Shouran enter the room, looking very displeased as his Emerald eyes were dark. Sesshomaru regained his composure, stepping away from her. It just enraged him that she'd known this all along and didn't think to make her appearance sooner.

"If you knew this, why did you wait until now?" Sesshomaru asked again, desperately curious.

Akir frowned. "It wasn't so easy!" she yelled, "I was back and forth on my decision in coming back to this Era. I left on bad terms and I was afraid to return. None of this would've happened if Kimara had never come here in the first place. She would still have her talisman and she would be home with her Family."

Shouran was shocked by her words and Sesshomaru was further angered. "I saved her from death yet you dare blame me for your own insecurities and failure as a parent?" Sesshomaru growled, his eyes rimming red.

Suddenly, a strong tremor rocked the building sending everyone on high alert. What was going on?

Kagome[The Courtyard]

Following the strange Earthquake-like sensation, Kagome had hurried to the Courtyard. She'd felt a shift in the barrier, having poured her energy into it yesterday. Another tremor rocked the barrier and she was able to pinpoint the exact location of the threat. It was ana rea right above the focal point she'd reinforced.

"What's going on Miko?"

Kagome turned to Sesshomaru, Mizuki and the others. "Something's attacking the barrier."

She then focused her spiritual power and fed it into the crack that continued to spread, hoping she could slow it down. On the other side of the barrier was a demon though she was unsure how they'd found this place. Aki looked above the focal point of the barrier, knowing someone had to control this Demon since there was no way this was coincidental.

"That woman." She said.

Sesshomaru nodded. "One of Kasai's Followers."

Then just as Sesshomaru came to that realization, the tremors stopped and the demon had stopped its assault. Aki was somewhat relieved but knew something else was afoot. A strange whistling sound resounded within the area, a piercing sound that would irritate even a human.

'This scent….!' Thought Sesshomaru, 'It couldn't be.'

And that's the end of Chapter 29! Chapter 30 is already in the works and I don't plan on taking as long as I did with this chapter. I'm so very sorry! There are only a few chapters left until this Feudal Fairytale will come to an end. Again, thank you all very much for supporting me and I love making you guys happy.

-EmikoSakura27