Title: Tides Against Time
Rating: M (Language, Violence, and Adult Content)
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or the Little Mermaid. All rights should go to Inuyasha Inc. Disney and Hans Christian Anderson.
Music: The song I have selected for this chapter is: "Inuyasha OST 3 - Hakudoushi" "Inuyasha OST 2 - True Spirit" and "Inuyasha OST 1 - Naraku." I love to listen to music on YouTube while I read to add to the atmosphere. You are welcome to listen along with my music selection if you want. It is not required. When you see these marks (***) that means to begin to play the selected song. When you see (xxx) this means to stop playing the music. It is important to pay attention to these marking as there is more than one song for this chapter. I do not have credit for these recordings or channels but I think it adds to the story.
Tides Against Time: Malevolence
(*** Inuyasha OST 1 - Hakudoushi ***)
Urasue had been spying on Kagome through her magical caldron but was having a hard time keeping tabs on her because of being separated by land. When she needed a closer look she had her slithering servants hide in the shadows of the lagoon and watch with their enchanted eyes but even then they could only see so far. As the days continued to tick by she grew more and more nervous that Kagome was going to succeed in her task. She had seen the romantic development between the star crossed lovers. When they had snuggled on the grass on her second night as a human Urasue could tell there was definitely chemistry between them. On Kagame's fourth night Urasue had watched Kagome dancing with her demon in an intimate embrace. She even witnessed the demon's eyes turn red in declaration and could tell by the way he held her tight that he wished to be with Kagome just as badly as she did. Unfortunately for Kagame, what she was not aware of was that with each passing day Urasue gained more and more of her soul. It was only a matter of time to where Urasue could magically take hold of Kagome's heart and enslave her to avoid her demon's kiss. And it was on that morning to where she had absorbed enough of her soul to do just that.
Urasue had just opened her caldron after enjoying her lunch on the 5th day when she had almost witnessed the demon make love to Kagome on the beach and nearly save her soul through a love-strung kiss. That was not what she had expected when she opened the magical portal and nearly chocked on an oyster. If she hadn't of looked into her cauldron at that very moment and squeezed Kagome's heart through her spell, she without a doubt would have lost her deal and Kagome would have regained everything her heart desired. Luckily for Urasue the fates were on her side once again and she was able to stop their lips from their intimate embrace and live another day. Sure it was cheating but what did she care? Kagome would never find out. She cackled darkly as she watched the mermaid turned human cripple in her lovers embrace upon the sand. She could almost taste his fear and her blood upon her tongue. It was just too much fun to see Kagome wriggling in agony like a worm on a hook as she magically squeezed her heart in her hand. She had to make the little slut pay for her scandalous debauchery on the beach. From the position she had found them in she could only imaging what all they had been up to and were about to do. Her stomach turned at the thought of having to almost witness that show. Yuck! She mentally thanked the gods she had opened the cauldron just in time!
When they had been racing back to the castle she couldn't help watching with glee at her little slave titter back and forth from death a little sooner that later. When she watched the blood fall from her paling lips and heard the cry of her demon lover's plea dripping with fear she couldn't help but laugh until she was light headed. This was always her favorite part. Watching her victims slowly suffer by her own hand, literally. She could feel Kagome's powers seeping into her and the warmth of her soul with each passing moment. It was a wonderful feeling. But, she need not rush Kagame's suffering. For she knew with her grasp on Kagome's heart all she had to do was keep her demon lover from kissing her on the lips and sit back and enjoy the show. She had nothing against the demon lover or demons in general but he was unfortunately reeled into her plan. She never thought she'd get the better hand of a demon when his younger half-demon brother had summoned her. She had been looking to expand her powers and abilities and when the fool offered his she found it easier to over look his disgusting plea to turn himself into a merman. Besides, she needed a half-demon's blood and tongue to finalize her last spell against Kagome anyway. What better way to destroy Kagome than with her lover's younger brother's flesh and blood? It was just too good!
When the half-breed sacrificed his blood to summon her she also gained the ability to understand Kagome's demon lover's language. Now she could easily keep up with what was being said and save herself from destruction. The foolish mutt had no idea what darkness she could have easily unleashed upon him. Dark magic wasn't something to take lightly and with his blood she could have easily destroyed him. But she didn't care to waist her efforts on him. She needed to store every ounce of magic she could until all was said and done. Besides, she got what she wanted and could careless what would happen to him. With him being a half-breed he was already suffering enough every 12 hours with each transformation. He would forever be enslaved to torture and he no longer would fit anywhere. Plus he could never be with Kikyo. Merlaw would never allow it. He was condemned to a life of solitude and pain. She need not worry about him. The more this deal with Kagome played out the more excited she became to see it all unfold before her. Now all she had to do was sit back and relax, soak up the rest of Kagome's soul and then wait for her daddy to come crawling to her to offer his soul instead. She just loved it when her plans turned out for the better. Especially when foolish bystanders twisted their fates in her web as well. Taking a look at herself in her mirror she could no longer see her wrinkles along her face and she looked to be about 30 in human years. When she finally consumed all of Kagome's soul she would look like her youthful 20-year-old self again. She couldn't wait! Her silver hair already shinned with health and her womanly form was curving in all the right places again. Her breasts were becoming perkier with each passing day and her energy and coloring only further blossomed. She was like a blooming flower bursting in new life. Touching up her full pouty lips with the red lip paint she had stolen from Kikyo, an evil sparkle lit in her eyes. She could tell when all was said and done she was going to be more beautiful and darker than every before.
"Oh yes little Princess… you may be my best soul yet." Urasue cackled to herself.
(xxx stop music xxx)
[Tashio Castle - Valencia, Spain]
The Duke and his daughters had been enjoying a stroll through the castle gardens after dinner when they saw Lord Sesshomaru fly overhead on his pet dragon. He had something wrapped in a blanket and was rushing like a mad man towards the Royal Wing. Unsure of what was going on but not wanting to miss out on anything they rushed towards their rooms. They lingered in the shadows towards the end of the hall as they watch a frantic handmaid rush out of the Lady's bedroom and down the hall. About 5 minuets later she returns with two healers at her side. They watch the handmaid whisper something into the keyhole before someone inside unlocks the door and ushers them inside. Slipping into Kanna's room they leave the door slightly cracked so they can listen to anyone's conversation that passes by. Kanna had tried looking through her mirror to see what was happening in the room but despite her efforts and the demands from her Father and sister the barrier once again would not drop. About 5 minuets later they see Lord Sesshomaru and another demon step outside the door. Taking a closer look at him they recognize him as the snake from the city! Naraku had to cover Kagura's mouth and hold her in place from storming out and ruining their hiding place. Feeling her relax he lets go of her as they listen in silence. About ten minutes later they see Advisor Miroku make his way towards them.
"Is everything alright with Lady Kagome? I saw Sango rush into the healing wing and quickly leave with Kaede and Tsukiyomi."
"We are unsure. We were at the beach when my cousin's sickness grew worse. I am sure whatever is wrong the healer will find out what is wrong. We are waiting on her diagnosis." Sesshomaru said to his approaching advisor giving him a serious look.
Confused as to why he mentioned Kagome as his cousin to Daija and himself Miroku looked at them questioningly. He was about to ask when he saw the serious glare in Sesshomaru's eye. He then saw Daija subtly motioning with his eyes toward the cracked door beside them.
"Ahhh.. uh well I pray it is nothing serious." Miroku said trying to cover his tracks.
They remained mostly quiet the reminder of their wait. They chatted briefly about common business performed that day and discussed Inuyasha's party tomorrow. About an hour later they watched one of the healers open the door and allowed them to step inside. They had sat there in silence as they listened to their rambling and had tried to look into the room when the healer opened it but saw nothing. When they were sure no one was coming out they made their way to Kanna's patio that looked over the stable grounds and castle gardens. They left the door cracked however so they would know when someone else exited the Lady's room. Plopping down on the patio couch Kagura crosses her arms over her busty chest.
"I can't believe that dirty human is Lord Sesshomaru's cousin! No wonder he got so defensive!" Kagura said irritated. "Maybe it was her we saw in his arms!"
"I think you are correct sister." Kanna said as she lightly fanned herself with a whalebone fane.
"But she is human! How can she be related to him?!" she shouted angrily. "And she's so… so plain?!"
"Lower your voice Kagura. Need I remind you that there are servants bellow us and other members of society meandering around the gardens?" Naraku hissed sternly while smacking her upside the back of the head.
"Yy... yes Father. Forgive me!" Kagura said as she straightened herself and lowered her gaze to her hands now resting in her lap.
"Have you forgotten that your fiancé's half-brother is a half-demon?" asked Naraku as he walked over to the balcony railing and look up at the rising moon.
"Oh… yes. That must be it." Kagura said at the realization hit her. "Still, they are not related by blood and she could have already found herself nestled comfortably in his bed."
"True. However, I am curious as to what has ailed her so. We already know her to be ridden to her chair and bed without assistance." He said while stroking his chin in thought.
Hearing sobbing coming from the hallway they quietly slip to the door to listen.
[Hallway]
"There, there... my dearest Sango." Miroku said as he tried to comfort her.
Suddenly they hear a slap and a pained groan coming further down the hall.
"IT IS NOT THE TIME FOR THAT PERVERT!" Sango shouted angrily as tears shed down her cheeks again.
"Please forgive me, I meant not to further upset you! I was only trying to lighten the mood!" Miroku defended as he got down on his knees and pealed her shaking hands away from her face and held both tenderly in his.
His rich brown eyes stared up into hers and she could see the sincerity in his expression. Feeling her knees grow weak she buckles beneath them and fell into his embrace. He holds her tight and she cried into his uniform.
"Sango are ye alright child?" asked Kaede as she and Tsukiyomi made their way out of the room.
"I'll… be fine. J... Just a little over rr... run with emotion at the mm... moment." Sango said as she whipped the tears from her eyes and reluctantly pulled out of Miroku's embrace.
"We all grieve the tragedy of Lady Kagome." Tsukiyomi said as she too wiped a tear from her eye.
"It is clear they both dearly love each other but her body is no longer able to fight the battle. I know she tries to be strong but I fear the next time I see her will be my last! I just wish we all could have had a little more time with her is all." Sango said with a quivering jaw.
"Agreed. I have never seen our Lord show such emotions or attachments to one being before. I cannot comprehend the grief he is experiencing. I feel immense guilt however in being unable to save her." Miroku said as he continued to hold Sango in his arms on the floor.
"Come, we have much to do tomorrow for the young master's celebration." Kaede said as she and Tsukiyomi helped pull their dear friends up off of the floor.
"Do you think Inuyasha will be back?" asked Sango. "He has been gone for some time."
"Let us pray that he does so no more harm comes to this household." said Miroku as they began making their way down the hall.
(*** Inuyasha OST 2 - True Spirit ***)
Not a minuet later Naraku and his daughters see Daija leave the chambers and begin to make his way down the hall after them. Taking the opportunity he slips out of his daughter's bedchamber to stock after his pray.
"By all the medical staff coming out of the Lady's room I take it your human mistress is unwell... Snake?" asked the Duke making Daija freeze in his step.
Daija's back grew stiff as a board as an icy chill ran through his entire body at the sound of his voice. He slowly turned to look at him over his shoulder and his eyes grew wide momentarily like a deer frozen in fear. He could see his evil smirk and the sisters spying from the doorway. He could feel their malcontent seeping through their auras. Swallowing harshly he cautiously turns the rest of his body around to give them his full attention and to help protect himself if they saw fit to attack.
"I hope your visit has been pleasant… Sir?" Daija asked trying to divert the question and to regain his footing. He may be a servant of the castle but his allegiance was to the Water Kingdom. He had no alliance with this scum.
"Hm, that is a debatable question." the Duke said displeased that he ignored his question with another.
"I'm sorry to hear that. I do pray you enjoy the party tomorrow. Excuse me." Daija said as he began to turn to leave.
"I did not dismiss you servant!" Naraku snapped.
"I am needed elsewhere. Goodnight… Sir." Daija snapped back.
Naraku clenched his yellowed teeth in his mouth in displeasure at the departing Snake. He despised his whole person and lack of respect. He swore when he was in power that that damn snake would be the first of many to go. Turning with a huff he dismissed his daughters to bed and told them to be at their best tomorrow. Making his way back into his bedchambers he sits at his desk and thinks over the information he had just received. He needed to speak with his informants immediately. Whoever this cousin was, was a threat to his reign dying or not. Whoever she was working for needed to be found out and taken care of as soon as possible. Grabbing his overcoat he slips out the door and locks it behind him. He then slithers around the castle lingering in its dark shadows and dark passageways. Hiding his scent and aura he slips out the castle grounds and towards a cottage up the road. Knocking on the door three times a click sounds at the top of the door and a small window is revealed. A red demon eye stares back at him.
"Who goes there?" the red eyed demon demanded through a rough gravely voice.
"I see the weather is quite lovely this time of year." Naraku asked beginning the secret code.
"You wish to speak about the weather?" asked the demon in response.
"Of course only the truly wise can admire what's before them." Naraku finished.
The red eye then disappeared and the little window closed. A clicking sound was made and the door opened for him to step inside. Naraku then made his way deeper into the abode. Turning down a long hallway he makes his way towards the study. The red-eyed demon announces his presence and welcomes him into the room. A tall figure stands by the window with a glass of hard liquor in one hand and a cigar in the other. He was still dressed in his white courtly robes and was pinned with a golden seal. Atop his head was a single red horn and purple markings ran across one side of his face. His red eyes rimmed in yellow glowed against the dark candle lit room. His hair was black with dark red undertones and reached just below his shoulders. When his eye caught Naraku's an evil smirk graced his lip and he turned his back to look out the window.
(*** Inuyasha OST 1 - Naraku ***)
"What brings you to my home at this hour Naraku?" asked High Councilmen Takemaru before taking a sip of his drink.
"You are aware of my youngest daughter and her seeing mirror." Asked Naraku as he made himself comfortable on the couch centered in the middle of the study.
"I am." Takemaru said with a hint of curiosity. "Please make yourself a drink.
"Thank you." Naraku said while pouring himself a glass. "She has seen Sesshomaru embracing a woman other than my daughter."
"I see… so you wish to know if I am aware or know of this woman?" asked Takemaru turning to look at the Duke.
"Well partly. I am to believe it is Sesshomaru's cousin currently residing in my daughter's future bedroom." said Naraku before taking another sip of his drink.
"Ah yes… the human cousin. I was informed she is related to Prince Inuyasha's mother's side of the family." Takemaru said before taking a puff of his cigar.
"So it is true then! She is of relation then?" asked Naraku curiously.
"She is of no relation I can assure you of that! I looked into the mater personally by disqcuized myself as a human. I also looked into Izayoi's family tree and there is no record of a living cousin by the name of Kagome." Takemaru said confidently.
"So she is a concubine or are you secretly planning on marrying off Sesshomaru behind my back to another? Naraku snapped.
"Mind your place Naraku! Do remember I hold authority in this courtroom and could easily sway your daughter's hand poorly! Besides, you know better. We have put to much into this already! " Takemaru threatened back as he looked Naraku straight in the eye.
"Then who is she then?" Naraku barked loosing his patience. "What must be done to be rid of her?"
"Need not worry for I have already seen to her myself." Takemaru said.
"So you're the one who ailed her then?" asked Naraku curiously. "The whole palace was in an uproar this afternoon."
"What do you speak of? She should have been gone by now." said Takemaru angrily.
"Oh, well then you do not know?" said Naraku with an evil smirk before taking a sip of his drink.
"What do I not know?" demanded Takemaru.
"She was seen flying over the castle this evening with Lord Sesshomaru himself. Something must have happened while they were out today because healers and servants were bustling in and out of the Lady's bedchambers ever since they have returned. I over heard one of your advisors mention Kagome's name and to I'm assuming Kagome's handmaid and her two healers. They had been speaking of her decline in health. I had the unfortunate circumstance of running into that retched girl and her snake servant in the city. You already know of what I speak of from what was shared in the boardroom the other day." Naraku said waving it off as if the information was no big deal.
"So the human defied my orders and stayed... how irritating" Takemaru said turning his back to Naraku and walking back over to his window to think.
"You believe otherwise?" asked Naraku.
"When I spoke with her she had a water demon accent which made no sense to me since she was clearly human. I am to believe she is an informant or a plant from another country trying to destroy our plans." Takemaru said before taking another puff of his cigar.
"I agree. When I saw her in the village she was accompanied by a water demon snake and she was dressed far too poorly to be of any relation to the Lord and Prince." said Naraku before finishin off his drink and standing back up to join Takemaru by the window.
"We will need to bring this up at the meeting tomorrow. I will make sure to inform the others as well so we can be ready for any come backs." said Takemaru.
"Indeed." Naraku said through an evil smirk. "Until then Takemaru. I look forward to you slaughtering these dogs once and for all."
"As do I old friend... As do I." Takemaru said with a matching smirk.
Naraku then excused himself and made his way back to the castle. He slipped back through the shadows of the night and made his way into his bedchambers. Once safely inside he pulled off his shoes and laid back on his bed. An evil grin was glued to his face as he slipped into the world of sleep. In his dream he played out his evil plan and watched as all suffered under his hand. He couldn't wait for his darkness to unfold before his very eyes! When the sun crept over the horizon he felt as light as a feather. Today was going to be just delightful. Changing into a flamboyant purple and red outfit he made his way to breakfast where he would be sure to further spread his deception. Then after breakfast was his meeting at court. He wasn't sure what all Takemaru was going to do to win the favor of the court but he knew he could save himself and anyone he desired out of anything in the heat of the moment. He had all his ducks in a row, now it was time to just sit back and enjoy the show. And hopefully by the end of the week there would be a double wedding! Then he could return home and begin planning his own. Walking into the dinning hall he sees his daughters were already present and dresses to impress. Gathered around their table were various other officials an allies partaking in the celebration tonight. Taking his seat next to Kanna he happens to catch the eye of his eldest across the table.
"You're in a chipper mood this morning Father. Care to share your secrete?" Kagura teased making some of the other officials and guests lightly join in her fun.
"Just excited for this evening is all!" Naraku teased back before taking a bite of his breakfast sausage.
"If you say so." Kagura said teasingly before turning her attention back to her friend sitting next to her and enjoying the light breakfast food scattered about the table on serving trays.
Turning his attention back to his breakfast he sees Sesshomaru make his way into the dinning hall and sit at a table at the far end of the room. Seeing he's caught his attention a devilish smile crept across his lips and a wicked gleam sparkled in his eye. As his blood red eyes stared into the intense demon dog's amber orbs he thought to himself,
"Oh how good it feels to be bad. Ha ha ha."
(End of Chapter 30)
(What will become of Kagome?! Will Urasue fully consume her soul? What about her control over her heart? What about Naraku and his alliance with the High Councilmen? What will happen in court now that Kagome's cover has been blown! Only time will tell! Be sure to follow along to find out! Please write a review! I'd love to hear your thoughts. Thanks again for reading! More to come soon!)