AN: I want to thank everyone for all their well wishes for my grandmother
through all this. I'm happy to say that she survived the surgery and the
doctors are giving her a really good report. She's on some really good
drugs right now, and sleeping, which is what she needs. My family and I
thank you all so very much for your support, and I really hope this chapter
can well express my gratitude.
My biggest thanks goes out to Emania, who has put up with my lack of contact, and her overwhelming support and shoulder should I need one to cry on. She is truly a dear friend and I am honored to be able to enjoy her ideas and aid in my works.
Tiranth(): Awww, I'm so glad you enjoyed it, even that it made you cry. I might end up with more than 2-3 chapters, let's see how the muse touches me.
Strangerthanthou: Thank you for reading and reviewing my story. I know I tend to go very angst most of the time but I think that the ending I have in mind will make all my readers very pleased. Please enjoy this chapter and the next few.
Grizabella: I love when I get *squee* reviews!! *laugh* Only because I do the exact same thing when I read a REALLY good chapter and it warms my heart that I can still get that reaction from people!! I love the reactions that I got from you, because that is exactly why I write. To get these sorts of reactions from my readers.
Talaroh: Brilliant? *blush* Why thank you! Thanks so much for your wonderful review, and I really hope you're as pleased with this chapter as you have been. ^_^
jschu25: Thank you so much for your comments. I'm so glad that the emotions that I was trying to convey with my characters has reached you so powerfully. I only know to be able to continue to create such well rounded characters.
pony girl(): I'm glad that you and your sisters are enjoying my work so much. If you did print out a hard copy, I'm sure your printer is as tired as mine, because this is running over 250+ pages, but I'm glad that you enjoy it enough to keep another copy around.
Bluefuzzyelf: Yeah, I love a good fluff. A little sap sometimes is okay, but after a while, it becomes way too sweet. I am a hopeless romantic, and I try to put that into my writing.
evilfire4321: I'm sorry you'll probably be disappointed after you read this next chapter, but I hope you continue to read and review!
Pruningshears: Don't worry, I'm not that cool either. Best thing about characters, you can make them out to be what is more than you could behave in real life. Francesca is one of my more outgoing characters, and I'm so glad she's been received in such an enthusiastic way!
Buritsutsunei : I'm sorry it made you cry-well, I'm sorta not sorry, after all, that's what I was trying to accomplish, was to bring emotions to my readers. Thank you very much for enjoying my stories, and I hope I don't disappoint your expectations in the final chapters.
Funky Nassau: Aww Nassau, that's touching!! I'm so glad I inspire you! Good luck with your own stories, which are wicked awesome in their own right *plug to everyone* You must check out her stories, they're very kewl!!
Diana-sama: Awww, I love the bubble anime eyes. *giggle* You're such an awesome reviewer and you're making me blush. I do write my own stuff, and they're all a very work in progress, but someday I plan on putting them out on fictionpress. Net. But thank you once again for your support and I do hope you'll keep reading my stories!
Harm Marie: Well, you'll see, in the meanwhile, keep reading.
rose-whip123: *blush* Author of the year, well I don't know! I know there are far better authors than I, but I really appreciate the compliment!
inuyasha lover23454: *gasp* I'm an unpleasant lifeform? Just because I write angst? *wipes her eyes* I'm just trying to convey the feelings of my characters, well I'm sorry that you feel that way.
Pri: Thanks so much, I'll try and figure out how to get that picture working again.
From: Inu Girl(): I'm sorry about the cliffies, but they do keep people coming back to find out what happens next ^_^ . You shouldn't call your teacher a baka, believe me. I'm a teacher in training and its not easy to be a teacher. They have to do so much stuff that you don't see, and they work hard for not enough money. Anyway, those are my pearls of wisdom. Outside that, thank you for being such a continuous reader and reviewer!! To answer your question about how Kei is going to live so long, I've come up with a whole new solution to that, but it won't be revealed till the last chapter. Sorry, but I can't spoil it for you ^_^ Don't worry, as much as I seem to love angst, I am a hopeless romantic and I LOVE happy endings. I promise you!! I'm also very sorry to hear about little Sango and little Shippo.
Of Memories Past: Even though this review was for Cry, I have to say here, how honored I am to have you enjoy one of my stories. I think you are one of the most gifted writers that Fan Fiction has to offer, and I'm so happy that you took the time to read and review one of mine!! For everyone, you have to read Memories' stories.
~~*~~ Francesca We traveled for another night and day, and it was just before the sun began to set over the far hills that Kirara began to act very strangely. My Empathy was just starting to come back, much to my relief. I had feared that I had somehow shorted it out with the battle, but as had begun to be proven, I had merely exhausted my resources. Kirara seemed overly excited, almost itchy in my mind and I kept looking over at her.
"Are you alright," I whispered and saw her ears perk up, but she never looked at me. It came in waves, this strange new excitement and this overwhelming need to get home. I tried to shake it off, but just as my empathy was weak, my control was weaker still.
"Rose?" Kei whispered in my ear.
"It's Kirara, I can't figure what's bothering her, but-" I began but Mistero suddenly yowled and began to descend. I grabbed onto his fur, and felt the shock of excitement jolt through his body into mine.
"What's going on?" Aki asked worriedly but I could only shake my head.
"I'm not sure, but we're definitely landing," I said and looked out over the land. From behind the line of trees, I saw smoke.
"Someone's over there," I said and Kei looked over my shoulder. I could see his profile from the corner of my eye as he leaned forward, his eyes closing and his nose twitching.
"Mistero, Kirara. Hold out just a little longer, we're almost home," he called and Mistero growled but rose a little in the air, Kirara following his stead. Sure enough, we cleared the line of trees and I saw the very familiar rice fields rising up from the ground. Faces turned upwards to greet us and a few of the younger villagers began running towards the huts, excitement radiating off of them. I sighed softly; we were home.
Kei's arm snaked around my waist and I smiled, leaning back against him as we descended. A crowd had gathered near Kagome's hut as we reached the ground and I saw the familiar blur of red streak down the hill as Kagome and Inuyasha came in from what was obviously a hunt, Kagome's arrows still on her back.
"Oh my son, you've come home," she exclaimed, wrapping Kei in a warm hug, while I stood by, watching the happy reunion.
"Kaemon, Naoko!" I heard cry out and Sango and Miroku came running across the village. Sango threw her arms around Kaemon in a display that I had not seen in a long time, and Kaemon obviously looked a little embarrassed.
Inuyasha embraced his eldest daughter and I watched carefully as he held her, worried that he would discover her secret, but as they had told me, if he smelled Naoko he didn't decipher the true meaning.
From the corner of my eye, I saw Mistero and Kirara slinking off and felt a sense of relief that they were going to get the rest they deserve. My thoughts traveled no further as three swift blurs dashed from between the legs of the crowd and into my arms, nearly knocking me over.
"Francesca-neesan!" came the chorus of happy voices and I laughed as I hugged Kohana and the kitsune kits tightly in my arms.
"Did you beat them?" Kin asked excitedly and was rewarded by a swift smack in the head from his brother.
"Of course she did, they couldn't come back if they didn't," Kioshi said in a very matter-of-factly tone, to which Kin made a face. Kohana stared at me a moment before glancing down at my neck. Her little nose twitched slightly and she tilted her head to the side.
"You smell a lot like Keitaro," she said, her voice holding both a question and a statement and I felt my cheeks flush up.
The twins glanced at my neck, and then in chorus chimed, "AHHHH!"
I was taken aback as they pointed at my neck and yelled in unison, "Papa! Keitaro bit Francesca!"
I wished the earth would swallow me whole or if not, the fire from my cheeks consume me as Shippou carefully stepped up and removed the kits from my arms.
"You'll understand when you're older," he said almost too calmly but I simply couldn't speak, I was too embarrassed. The townspeople laughed politely and Keitaro decided to rescue me once again, wrapping his arm around my waist and pulling me close.
"Mother, Father. I'd like for you to meet my mate, Francesca." He said with an air of pride and dignity. Kohana glanced at him, then me and a bright beam of a smile lit up on her face.
"You're really my nee-chan now, right?" she squealed and at my nod, wrapped her arms around my neck and held me tight.
"MOTHER!" came a cry from one of the huts as Aiko came running to us, her face pale.
"Something's wrong with Kirara," she exclaimed breathlessly. "And I think there's another fire cat trying to hurt her!" she screamed and everyone turned on their heel to follow the hysterical girl. I glanced at Kei who looked just as surprised as I and we took off running. Up ahead, I saw Mistero standing over Kirara, growling loudly at the coming group and when I realized that no one knew about his existence except those that had traveled with me, I took advantage of a little of the youkai power I shared with Kei and leapt over them all, landing in front of Mistero.
"Stop, he's not hurting her! He's her mate!" I cried and saw Sango's face grow white.
"Mate? But in all these years, she's never taken a mate-" she whispered.
"Perhaps she just hadn't found the right one," Miroku said gently, trying to calm his wife.
A wave of excitement swept over me from behind, and as I tried to steady myself, Kohana glanced over my shoulder and made a face.
"She smells all funny," she commented and I sighed.
"Kirara is going to have kittens," I said, pausing as another wave hit me, "Probably any minute now, I think we should leave her to her duties."
Sango's face grew even whiter, "Kittens?!"
Miroku just sighed softly, "Ara ara, come now Sango, and let's give Kirara the space she needs." He gently turned his wife by the shoulders and lead her away, the group following his example. I turned my head before leaving, glancing at Mistero but his look told me inexplicitly, he wasn't moving from Kirara's side. I nodded, and smiled, walking back to Kagome's hut where everyone had gathered.
"What happened with the strange creatures," spoke up one villager as soon as I had reappeared.
"Yes, was the journey difficult?"
"Where did you find them?"
"What were they?"
"How did you defeat them?"
The questions flew at me like arrows and I flinched under the interrogation. Kohana saw the look on my face and hugged me closer, as if she could try and protect me.
"Please everyone," Kagome spoke, standing before me as if she could shield me from the questions by her presence. "They've probably had a very exhausting journey, and its already night. I'm sure that all your questions can wait until the morning, so please let's give them some time to rest," Kagome spoke up sternly. At the villagers' looks of uncertainty, Kagome sighed. "I'm sure everyone will answer whatever questions you have in the morning," she insisted, and slowly, the villagers began to disperse.
Kagome didn't need to tell anyone twice, Sango and Miroku motioned for Kaemon and Naoko to join them, and I watched them leave. Naoko glanced once over his shoulder at Maeko and I felt the twinge of separation fall between them. After traveling together for so long, even being on opposite ends of the village had become too much distance.
"Come, I have dinner waiting for us," Kagome said gently and Keitaro wrapped his arm around my waist, much to Kohana's delight, and lead me back to their hut. Once there, he managed to pull a very protesting Kohana from my arms, as we sat down near the center fire. The warmth of the flames made the room almost too comfortable and I felt weariness begin to drag on me, but Kei sat behind me and wrapped me up in his arms, the contact reminding me that I needed to stay awake, if not for a little while longer.
Kagome took a seat beside her husband, who had remained silent this entire time, with nothing but a scowl on his face.
"What's wrong?" she whispered softly. I started and watched as her eyes lifted from the fire into my face, and I felt as if my very soul were being looked into. It made me quickly look away.
"What happened out there?" she asked, "There is something amiss here, something different about you Francesca, and I do not mean the mating."
I flushed quickly. It was a little embarrassing, to be faced with your husband's family and suddenly feel like they knew exactly what you had been doing. We were newlyweds, in a sense, as they had once been, but I really didn't want to think about that right now.
"Her scent has changed," Inuyasha spoke softly. "It smells like leaves slowly drying on the branch" Inuyasha's eyes looked at me intensely, made even more exquisite by the firelight reflected there, and I couldn't hold his stare.I looked down. I didn't want to tell them, I didn't want to burden them with what was my problem.
I saw Kohana's face, watching me curiously, and felt a twinge of regret. I had already broken so many promises to that child, even if I wanted to tell them what was happening, I couldn't bear to see look of pain and confusion that I knew was going to be waiting for me when all came clear.
"Nee-chan, you look so sad," she whispered and I smiled bravely.
"You see, Mother and Father, we found the source-"Keitaro began explaining and I placed a hand on his knee, silencing him. This was my story to tell.
"We found out why I came through the well, and why I could not return home. I was called here to destroy the Sorrow, and now that we have, I have a limited time before I have to go home."
Kagome looked a little confused by this, so I took a breath, and looked straight into her eyes, "This time is not my own, my soul does not belong here, and when the time given to me fades, I have to return home, or I will- " I swallowed the last word, feeling the sting of tears rise to my eyes. I couldn't say it, but I didn't need to.
Kagome's eyes widened, and she glanced at Keitaro, probably for confirmation. What she must have seen in his eyes must have convinced her.
"What-Why-How-How much time do you have?" she asked softly.
"We don't know," Keitaro spoke up, "But we're going to try and fight it. This won't destroy our happiness, we've already decided. We're going to live out our lives here, for as long as we can."
Kagome looked to her husband, who nodded, and she sighed, "We were hoping to save this as a surprise, but perhaps now is a good time." Kagome's hand found Inuyasha's as if it were instinct, and I watched as he absently squeezed it in. "After we left your uncle's, we returned to the village and began preparing a gift for the two of you." Kagome rose to the window and looked back at us. "The villages helped of course, no one loves good tidings more than they do, and we've- well come see." She pushed aside the covering and motioned for us to rise to look outside.
In the growing twilight we couldn't see much, but following the line of her finger, I saw a hut just on the edge of the village, made of newly cut wood, and slightly larger than the rest.
"They-" I whispered, turning to look at Keitaro, "They made us a home!"
He smiled and wrapped his arms around me warmly, staring out at this gift, and he glowed with pure peace and contentment. I smiled, and for that moment all our troubles vanished. We both had everything we wanted, acceptance, happiness, a home of our own, and a loving family, but most importantly we had each other.
The next day we held a meeting, both humans and youkai alike appeared and we all told our story, the adventure we had faced and we answered the questions as best we could. Of course, the one question we were not prepared for, came from a young girl.
"Francesca-sama," she piped up from her mother's arms, "Are you and Keitaro going to get married?"
Everyone laughed at this innocent question and I couldn't help but smile, "Perhaps, do you think we should?"
She glanced up at me in awe that an adult would take her opinion so seriously as she replied honestly, "Yes, because when there's a wedding, we always have a big festival and I like festivals."
I felt Kei's hands slide up my arms as he moved to kneel behind me, "Well, that sounds like a good enough reason to me as well. I like festivals too!"
The little girl blushed fiercely and buried her face in her mother's shoulder. I whispered under my breath to him, "I don't quite know what a marriage here entails. I don't want to put a burden on anyone. I don't need a marriage to prove anything to anyone."
He smiled into my hair as he whispered back, "Don't worry, I heard some of the villagers talking about it already, they're even more anxious than we are. Most of them know that we're mates, so this is only a small formality. Besides, I really do like festivals." His voice pitched just slightly and I could almost hear the beg in his voice.
"Well, as long as it doesn't trouble everyone too much," I whispered in return and his excitement swept over me like a warm wave. I smiled and was grateful for the lack of attention that was being paid us as instantly everyone began discussing plans and making arrangements.
"I'm not even sure what to wear," I said and saw Sango and Kagome turn to look at me.
"I could try and come up with something Western-style," Kagome offered and I shook my head.
"I don't want to be any extra trouble to anyone," I said and she shook her head, "Nonsense, this isn't trouble at all. After all, you're now my daughter, so of course I want to make your wedding as special as you deserve."
"You'd better listen to her Francesca," Sango said laughing, "I tried to convince her I wanted a small private celebration for my wedding and well, she can be very persistent. The more I fought, the more elaborate everything became." She ducked gracefully behind me as the heat of Kagome's scowl hit the both of us, but quickly faded as she realized that it was true.
I smiled and nodded, seeing the youthful look of excitement spread over Kagome's face as the ideas formulated in her head and I sighed. Holding out my hands before me, I clasped my wrists together, like I was bound in handcuffs, "I'm at your mercy, or lack thereof." Sango laughed at the last comment.
"Seems she understands quite well," she said. In response, Kagome made another face.
The next few days flew by in the frenzy of preparations of our wedding, and the preparation of our new house. The villagers made it perfectly clear that no matter our prior arrangements, we could not move in until we were properly wed. Kei didn't find this amusing in the least and every night I found myself swept up and out of the village at the speed of the wind to have some privacy between ourselves.
I could feel the air crackling around me as I opened my eyes to the bright if not brisk day of my wedding. I was as all brides should be, very very excited and very nervous. Why was I nervous? I didn't know and didn't dwell on it too long because Kohana came bouncing into my room to wake me. She was understandably excited because she got to wear her best kimono, and kept tugging on my arm as I rolled over and pretended to still be sleeping.
I could feel Kei's annoyance, even through the distance between us, and I felt sympathetic. Kagome felt that she should honor the western tradition of not seeing the bride before the wedding, and he was not happy. Inuyasha had to seal him inside an empty hut with scrolls to keep him away from me.
The ceremony was definitely not like anything I had seen before. I felt a little odd, having been used to a totally different form of wedding; however I followed Kagome's instructions and since I never sensed any disappointment or offense from the surrounding audience, I knew I had done well.
Miroku performed the rites, and at the end a roar of applause and cheers went up through the entire village. I could have cried- it was all I had ever hoped for on this day.
The festivities began soon after and long after the sun went down and the moon was trekking across the sky, we were still gathered around laughing and joking. Even the children stayed up with us, for there was far too much fun to be had that not even the sternest parent could have convinced them to go to bed.
The twins insisted on dancing with me, having heard Kohana's tale about my dance at Sesshomaru's, so I gathered them up in my arms and sang a merry tune, waltzing swiftly in circles, and spinning around every once in a while much to their amusement. After a few steps, some of the other adults joined me, their own children eagerly joining them. I laughed as the kitsune refused to give up their dance to Keitaro, who growled at them but to no avail. Kohana jumped into her brother's arms instead, insisting that she had to teach him the right way to dance.
Finally, as little eyes began to droop and little mouths began to finally yawn, a few of the villagers trickled off to sleep. Kei and I waited until the majority had left and then at the insistence of his parents and family, we headed to start our new life in our new home.
I wish I could say that we lived happily ever after, for that always seems to come with a story too fanciful to be true, but that was not to be. The next two weeks were filled with all the joy and love that all newlyweds must face, with minor disagreements but enjoyable makeup following.
Kaemon continued to tutor me in fighting, and I actually became half decent with a bow, nothing compared to Maeko or Kagome, but I could hit a target at close to 100 feet. Never one to hit the center, but it was still an accomplishment. Naoko had begun his school for the children as soon as we returned and I helped him out, aiding in keeping the littlest ones focused when they wanted to go out and play. Kin and Kioshi were our biggest pranksters, and often I had to remind them that playing tricks on their schoolmates was not right. Kouga sent his youngest to join us, a shy lovely little girl that looked just like Ayame, but with her father's stubborn streak. Kin instantly took to her and they became inseparable. I even got over my teaching jitters and truly enjoyed it.
In the evenings I spent time talking with 5 members of the shard hunting team. asking them questions and learning the truth behind a great many of the stories that I knew. We laughed and joked together, and it was certainly some of the best times. I had forgotten our trials with the Sorrow, the journey that we faced, and the reality we had before us. Perhaps it was foolish of me, but when you are blissfully happy, so happy that you burst into a bright smile or even a joyous laugh for no reason, you can never see into that dark sunset.
My sunset came exactly two weeks after my wedding day, in the form of a dream. My world was blood red, and swirling around me in a fit of madness that caused silent screams to echo in my ears. I felt as if I were being pulled in a million opposite directions at the same time, with no relief anywhere to be found. I cried out for Kei, I cried out for someone, anyone, but no one heard me, all I could hear was the sound of my screams, filling the scarlet void around me.
"ROSE!" I heard suddenly and my eyes flew open. Kei was floating above me, or so it seemed, his streaked hair curtained my face, blocking his arms from my view. I felt a fire burning around me, so hot and intense that I felt as if my skin were melting on my bones. I opened my mouth to speak but my throat was too parched for words. My eyes felt like they would crack beneath my lids, and though my body was burning and dry, I could feel my sleeping clothes and the bedding beneath me soaked in ice water.
I stared up into his eyes, and desperately tried to lick my lips, if only for some small relief as I whispered thickly, "Kei, what's happening?"
He didn't respond, but scooped me up in his arms, and took off out the door, heading for the woods. I couldn't do much but rest in his arms, even my limbs refused to aid me in my struggle. He leapt into the nearby pool and I felt my breath catch in my throat as shards of ice pierced my skin, or so it felt. I knew that the water was only mildly cool the day before, having bathed there with Kohana, but now it felt artic fresh. He knelt in the water bringing the level to my chin as he gently scooped water over my brow and gently dripped some into my mouth. I swallowed painfully, my throat felt like it was squeezed shut.
"Kei, Francesca," I heard and from the corner of my eye I saw a flash of red, white and black, and saw Kagome leap from her husband's back and jump into the water.
"Your father smelled your scent run by, what happened?" she asked.
"I don't know, I woke up and she was groaning and tossing, and when I tried to wake her, she was burning up. I brought her here," he explained. I looked up to see fear flashing painfully on his face.
I licked my lips and looked up at him, "Kei, you know what it is." I couldn't lie; this much pain, there was only one thing it could be.
He shook his head, "I won't accept it. It hasn't been long enough." He said angrily and I used all my willpower to lift my hand to his cheek.
"Kei, we talked about this, remember?"
I felt something touch my forehead and I looked up to see a trail of tears left on his cheek. Kagome watched us silently before turning to climb out of the water.
"I'll go and prepare your things, and tell the others." She said softly and left us to ourselves.
"I said I would fight this, but there hasn't been enough time, you can't leave," he insisted defiantly and I sighed. I could feel the pull through my body still, and it took all my energy to keep this pain from him.
"Kei, I have to go. Remember our vow, that night? Enough happiness to last forever. I have that happiness in here," I let my hand drop to my chest, "and after I return home, I know you'll be there waiting for me. Remember, you promised."
He sighed and pulled me tightly against his chest, unable to speak anymore. I smiled softly as he released me, "I have until sunset, so let's make the most of it."
He nodded and gently led me back to the village where there was already a great commotion going on. As we passed some of the huts, I could see the sad look on the villager's faces, a few even bowing their heads in my passing. I wanted to yell at them, that I wasn't dead and I wasn't dying, but I had barely the energy to keep my eyes open at this point.
"Nee-chan," I heard screamed and felt Kohana running towards me, even if I couldn't see her. I knew exactly without opening my eyes what was going on. Her hair was disheveled from sleep, her nightclothes hanging loosely from her small body, and her eyes were red with tears. I had made everyone swear not to tell her what was going to happen to me, I couldn't bear causing her that pain but somehow she found out. I suspect the twins were the ones who told her.
I felt little arms wrap around me as Kei knelt to the ground, but I could do nothing but sigh against her soft cheek. She nuzzled my cheek and forehead, as if she could cool my fever by her touch, making soft whimpering sounds.
Inuyasha stepped forward and grabbed his daughter around the waist, but she refused to let go of me. I sighed as he pried her small hands from around my neck and pulled her away, as her shrill screams filled my ears.
"She promised she wouldn't go away, doesn't she love us enough?" she cried, her small voice growing shriller. I felt a tear slide down the side of my face as her words pierced my heart.
"Kei, put me down please," I whispered and he looked down at my face.
"You're too weak," he argued but I took a deep breath and lifted my head, giving him my sternest look. He sighed and carefully let my legs fall to the ground, and I felt his arms beneath my arms as I began to brace my feet. With a call of will, and a focus of the energy I didn't realize I still possessed, I stepped away from his support and walked over to Kohana, who had since been placed on the ground. She sniffled and looked up at me, and I fell to one knee.
"Kohana, know that above all, the thought that I have broken my word to you tears at my heart. But you have to understand little one, I don't have a choice. If I don't leave, I'll get very sick and probably die very quickly, and we don't want that, do we?"
She shook her head and I smiled bravely, "Good. Now, I will make you another promise, one that I know I can keep. I promise you that we will see each other again, even though it will be a very long time away. Do you think you can promise me that you'll grow up to be a very brave girl, and come find me with your brother when the time is right?"
She looked at me strangely and I smiled, "My home, isn't only a place very far away, but a time too. I was born almost 500 years from this time."
Her eyes grew very large, as does one of a child who has just discovered something rather important, "That's a very long time nee-chan," she whispered.
"Hai, it is. Which is why this might be a hard promise to keep, but I want you to try the best that you can. Do you think you can try?"
She looked pensive, and turned to her father, "Papa, can I?"
He looked to Kagome, who seemed just as puzzled. "I don't know baby, it is a very long time. I don't know exactly how long we live for. I never actually had the opportunity to ask any other hanyous."
Kohana thought about it another moment and then a look of determination crossed her face, "I'm gonna do it."
Everyone glanced down at her, and I couldn't help but smile. I had seen that tight lip, hard look of stubborn resolve before. It was the perfect blend of her parents in her small face. I quickly pulled her close, hugging her close to me as I felt a tear slide over my face. I didn't want her to see me cry, so I buried my face in her long white hair.
"I know you can," I whispered and she hugged me back. I felt my strength surge back through me then, as wave after wave of pure positive emotion flooded over me. I lifted up my head, and saw Inuyasha staring down at his daughter with pride at her fierce sense of responsibility towards me. Kagome looked like she was going to cry with joy at Kohana's strength, and Kei looking down at me, with a light shining in his eyes that warmed my soul. I carefully rose up from my knee, feeling the fever beginning to wane, and my focus growing clearer.
"Kohana, I have to go back to my hut now, and do some things, I want you to go with your parents for a little, but I'll come and say goodbye to you. I promise." She smiled bravely and reached out to squeeze my hand before turning to take her mother's.
Kei stepped forward and took my hand in his and we returned home. The hut seemed too perfect for words, soft golden wooden walls greeted my eyes as we stepped through the rush curtain that was covering the entranceway. I smiled faintly and fell to my knees on the futon.
"Are you alright," Kei asked me worriedly, and I looked up at him with a smile.
"Yes, I'm fine, just a little tired," I whispered faintly as he knelt beside me. I looked around again, "Did everything always seem so beautiful?"
I could feel his confusion and worry, so I smiled again, "Now when everything suddenly is coming to a close, I see how truly beautiful everything is." I looked down at the floor, "I wonder, after I'm gone, will all of you actually remember me? I mean, my being here probably shouldn't have been allowed. I'm from a different time after all."
"So is my mother, and there is nothing wrong with her being here."
I shook my head, "Your mother belonged in this time, because of her incarnation status, and her connection to your father. That's why only they could travel through the well. You've already tried, you can't go through!"
He shook his head, "I tried when even you couldn't get back through, -maybe there's still a chance-"
I smiled and lifted my finger to gently press it to his lips," You know we can't even try that. Even after I'm gone, who knows if the curse will still be in effect. It seems that we'll just have to do this as we always have, the long and painful way."
He smiled, that warm cocky smile that I burned into my memory as he moved closer, and brushed a strand of hair from my cheek.
"Always the optimistic one, aren't you?" he said and I laughed.
"One of us has to be," I replied and motioned to the shadow of my bag, where it had lain for these past two weeks, in the corner of the hut.
"Bring that to me, I have something to give you," I said and watched the fluidity of his movements as he glided across the floor to my bag, hooked his hand through one of the straps and returned to my side.
"I know we exchanged gifts the night of our wedding, but there was something very special I had saved, for this day." I said and reached into the small pocket of my bag, and pulled out my most treasured possessions. Gently taking his hand in mine, I opened up his palm and placed it in his hand.
"What is this?" he asked and I blushed.
"Where I come from, married couples often exchange rings as symbols of their commitment to others and a symbol of eternity with each other. I know I already have your mark, but-"
He took the ring and held it up between his forefinger and his thumb, looking at it closely, as a smile broke across his face.
"You wish to mark me in the manner of your customs," he said and then the smile grew larger.
"I would be honored to bear your mark," he said and paused as he tried to figure out exactly what he was supposed to do. I smiled and stepped forward and helped slide it over his left ring finger. He watched me, with the curious fascination of a child, and slowly held up his hand to his face.
"And in your custom this shows others that I have a mate?" he asked, his eyebrows furrowing curiously, "but this can be removed."
I sighed and nodded, "Yes, it can. Unfortunately human laws in my time are not as solid as youkai it seems," I laughed softly, "It's not even a proper wedding ring, it is a simple band that belonged to my-" my words were broken by his quick and passionate kiss.
"I do not care, it is something that you treasure, and so I shall treasure it," he whispered against my lips, and I smiled.
"In my bag are my clothes, my other clothes, if you could hand them to me," I said, feeling tired again. I reached for the ties to my hakama pants when Kei's hands fell on mine.
"Let me," he said softly, and I wasn't sure if it was a question or not.
"I don't want to be treated like an invalid," I said and he shook his head.
"I want to remember everything about you, the way your skin feels," he said trailing his fingertips along my cheek, "the way you smell," he leaned in and buried his nose against my neck, "so please let me do this."
I sighed and nodded. Slowly and delicately he helped me undress and then dress in my normal clothes. Some would find this as something perhaps erotic about his actions, but it was the purest act I had ever experienced. He treated me as if I were a delicate flower, one that could crumple at the slightest rough touch. I watched his face as he went through the motions, and his eyes were so loving and gentle that I felt as if I would cry.
Finally he helped me to my feet, and ran his hand up my cheek and through my hair, bowing his head to gently kiss my forehead, then my cheeks and finally a feather light kiss on my lips.
"You are the most beautiful woman in the world," he whispered, "I know that these years will pass and I will never see another woman as beautiful both in body and in spirit as you."
I smiled, feeling a heart-wretching tear slide down my cheek, "How can I leave you? Who would flatter me like that?"
He laughed softly, "Well, I suppose that is true, but as you said, I will be waiting there for you when you return."
I smiled and took his hand in mine, noticing that the light was coming in through the window at a different angle. It was already past midday.
"We should start walking, I want to savor everything around me before I go," I said and he reached for my bag, and knelt before me. I smiled and let him pull me up on his back, and we headed out of our home.
It was unnaturally quiet through the forest and I closed my eyes, letting my sense take in every last bit of the surrounding, burning it into my memory. Strangely enough, I couldn't feel a thing from Keitaro, and this saddened me as well. He never turned to look at me, simply walking along and as we entered the clearing and I slid off his back he quietly left my side blending into the crowd of well wishers. Little Kohana leapt into my arms and cried. I bit my lip tightly and held her close, gently running my fingers in her hair to calm her. That was when I noticed something. Her hair had been cut. She pulled her head back and draped a thin rope over my head. No, not a rope, but a carefully braided chain of her hair.
"Oh Kohana," I whispered and she smiled wiping her face, "so you won't forget me, nee-san!"
"I could never forget you!" I exclaimed emotionally. I buried my face into her cropped hair and inhaled felt her warm in my arms. "Never in a million years," I murmured into her ear, hugging her again. Then I reached around my own neck and removed my necklace, carefully clasping it around hers.
"So you won't forget me," I said softly. She fingered the thin gold chain and pendent. "Never," she vowed solemnly.
I gently put her down and knelt before the twins, who looked like two lost and very sad pups. I embraced them tightly, "Mind your papa, and grow up to be great kitsune, I want to be able to read in the history books about your exploits." I whispered in their ears and they nodded. Then I turned to the adults. Naoko was first, and handed me an ink block and brush set of my own. "For the sensei," he said bowing and I blushed. Aiko handed me a small white ball, that uncurled and opened bright magenta eyes at me.
"Kirara says to keep her, she'll protect you in your strange world," she whispered and I carefully held the kitten in my arms.
"Tell Kirara that I will keep her safe always," I replied. Kohaku presented me with a knife, made of bone, decorated with dog creatures from point to hilt. "to remember your battles and to always stay strong," he replied. I nodded and embraced him with one arm, cautious of the kitten.
Kaemon approached and almost looked shy. "I wish you would stay," he whispered sadly, I shook my head and he nodded, "I can never make up for the foolish way I behaved around you, and I only hope you know that I value you as one of my dearest friends and always will, and I pray that you find a way to forgive me." I smiled and leaned forward, giving him a feather light kiss.
"Kaemon, I forgave you when it happened. But I want you to find the happiness that you were searching for. You deserve it." He smiled and embraced me tightly, "You are now my cousin, and so I wish you all the best. Perhaps someday, in another life, I will have the chance to meet you again."
Aki embraced me next and I smiled, hugging her tightly. "Where will you go now?" I asked her and she smiled.
"I have no village to call my own, and Kagome and Inuyasha have invited me to live with them. I can help Naoko with the school. It's a new start and a joyous one."
"I wish you the best," I said and hugged her again, whispering into her hair, "Give him a chance Aki, I don't think that your fears are founded. He is truly a good man."
Aki whispered softly against my ear, "I know that, but all too often women have fluttered close to his flame, perhaps I should make him work to win me."
I laughed happily and pulled back to hold her at arms length, "Truly a woman after my own heart," I announced proudly and released her.
Sango smiled and hugged me, not really saying much but Miroku presented me with the best gift of all. He carefully unwrapped his right hand, and placed the rosary in mine. I stared unbelieving at him and he just closed my fingers over it and turned away. Maeko hugged me and whispered " I placed some dried herbs in your bag, for you, should you need them." I thanked her.
Inuyasha gave me the rosary that I had broken when I first arrived, "You have a rare kindness and a trusting heart. I only wish I had known someone like you long ago, then perhaps I wouldn't have needed this,' he smiled. "Take good care," to which I bowed, "You as well, Inuyasha."
Kagome smiled sadly, "I almost envy you, but this has been my home for longer than that. I do ask you to deliver something," she handed me a small package wrapped in linen.
"Give this to my mother and brother and burn some incense at Jii-san's shrine for me," she asked and I nodded, "Of course"
We embraced again and I placed all of my gifts in my bag carefully. The kitten had fallen asleep in my arms as I picked up the bag and looked at the well. I turned back to everyone and bowed slowly. "Thank you all for the chance to meet you and feel truly like a part of the family," I stepped up on the lip of the well, took a deep breath and jumped. I had barely cleared the well's frame when a strong hand grabbed my arm. My body jerked and the kitten grabbed onto me with all her claws. I looked up to see Keitaro's eyes shining, his beautiful face framed by his hair as he looked into my eyes.
"Don't leave me," he whispered in English and I felt him drop all reserve and all the pain and all his heartbroken love showered over me with such force that I felt giddily dizzy.
"Kei," I whispered.
"Please Francesca, please stay with me, I'll find a way, I swear I won't let you die! Please just give me a little more time!" his voice begged me with all his might.
"I can't, " I said sobbing, "YOU were always right. I don't belong here, I came to do what I had to a do now I have to go back."
"I was wrong, you belong here with me," he whispered.
"Kei," I began again when he pulled me up to his lips in one of those desperately hungry kisses you only read about in romance novels. My soul touched his in that kiss, or at least I felt that way, and I couldn't help but cry out softly as it ended.
"I will love only you Keitaro, son of Inuyasha for as long as I live and beyond," I whispered. The look on his face was happy bliss and I used that moment to pull free from his grip and fall. Before the light enveloped me, I heard his cry, "I will find you again Francesca!"
"I pray you do," I whispered and let the well consume me. It felt as if I were falling through a warm pool. All around me I felt calm, and peace, and just as quickly as it began, it ended, and I felt the cold hard ground rise up against my back.
I lay there in the dirt for a moment, staring up the well shaft, but where I had honestly hoped to see the light of the sky, was merely the dark shadows of a wooden roof.
Above me I heard the sliding of a door and anxious voices.
"I swear Mother, I was just showing her the well, and suddenly she was pulled in, just like Kagome."
"Sato, that just can't be possible. Nothing has happened with this well in many years, are you sure?"
"I'm not a fool, I know what I saw!" he yelled and I stood and cupped one hand to my mouth.
"Sato!" I yelled and instantly two heads appeared above me.
"Stand back," he called and something dropped over the edge. It was a rope ladder. I carefully placed the kitten on my shoulder and began the long climb up. My arms and legs ached and I realized I was still very weak, but the fever had subsided. I slowly peered over the edge of the well to see a very surprised Sato and a woman that bore a close resemblance to him standing there, their eyes wide.
"Um, hello," I whispered in Japanese and Sato fell backwards.
"You weren't speaking Japanese a few minutes ago," he stammered and it was my turn to look surprised.
"A- a few minutes ago?" I whispered. The woman, who I took to be the mother he was addressing stepped forward and took my hand, helping me climb out of the well before I fell again. I leaned against the stone wall of the well lip and tried to sort this all out.
"I've only been gone a few minutes?" I asked slowly, looking up as they both nodded. Relief swept over me. I wouldn't have to worry about telling everyone where I had been for over a month.
"My, my, who is this?" cooed his mother gently, and carefully pried the frightened kitten from my shoulder.
"Um, Yuki," I said in a hurry, and then thought about it. Yuki seemed as good a name as any, because curled up, she did resemble a snowball.
"Well Yuki, you look like you could go for a warm bowl of milk," she said stroking the kitten's back gently, before looking up at me.
"Perhaps you should have a good lunch first, and then you can explain everything," she offered warmly, and motioned for me to follow. I did so obediently, not quite sure how all this was happening.
****
"So, you spent a month in the past," his mother asked, leaning forward on the table, her hands folded beneath her chin.
"Yes," I said, placing my chopsticks down after finishing my rice. "This was delicious."
"But why was it only a few minutes here? I don't understand," Sato said angrily. I flinched, his anger hitting me like a hot poker.
"Sato please, the young woman has gone through enough for today, perhaps it is best if we let things rest till tomorrow," she offered.
"No, it's alright. Besides, tomorrow I have to return to Yokohama," I said. After a moment I leaned down and reached for my bag, pulling it up on my lap.
"I met Kagome," I said softly, and heard the clatter of chopsticks as both of them dropped their utensils in shock. I smiled softly, and looked up, "I know that this is a lot for you to deal with, but hear me out. She is happy, very happy with Inuyasha. They have," I smiled, blinking the tears from my eyes quickly, "they have three beautiful children. Keitaro, Maeko and Kohana." I described the three of them, and saw the excitement in the mother's eyes as she found out that two of her grandchildren inherited the adorable ears that she loved on her son in law.
I pulled out the package that Kagome had given me, and it turned out to be a very long letter addressed to her mother, and enclosed were a few old but still visible instant pictures. It seemed that Kagome had taken a camera with her. I showed the braid of hair around my neck, and told them about the life that her daughter had lived. Tears showed in the eyes of her mother, and I paused, afraid I had caused grief where I intended to bring joy.
"I'm sorry, I have hurt you," I whispered and she smiled through the wet eyes.
"Not at all my dear, you have given me more joy than in all my lifetime, I am happy that my daughter found her place in the world that she loved with the man that she loved."
I smiled and paused, wondering if I should say anything more. It was Sato who noticed this and whispered.
"There is something else, isn't there?"
I blinked and looked at him, before whispering, "There is something else, but I fear telling you. I am afraid of how you will react."
Kagome's mother reached over the table and touched my hand, "I promise, we will not be angry with you."
I nodded, "I was not worried for that, but there is something very special that I have to share with you, it concerns Keitaro. During my time there, we traveled together, with Maeko, Kaemon and Naoko, and during our travels we-" I paused and then smiled shyly.
"I married Keitaro."
I saw the look of surprise flash on her face and felt the same from Sato, causing me to bow my head.
"You think this would upset me?" she whispered after a while. I nodded my head and was shocked when she quickly stood, hurried to my side and wrapped her arms around me.
"You love my grandson, I can see it in your eyes when you said his name. I am a lucky woman to be so blessed in my family. Welcome, granddaughter."
I smiled and looked up at the older woman as I embraced her as well, feeling a warmth swell through me. It numbed the pain of my separation from my beloved, but to be so welcomed into his family, even in this time, was a great blessing.
"Now, I know you have talked much and you are tired, I can see it on your face. Sato, go and pull back the blankets to Kagome's bed," she commanded, sending the young man out of the room.
"You will go and bathe, and then rest," she insisted.
"But my hotel room, and my train ticket," I said and she smiled.
"Do not worry, I will handle everything. You need to rest your body and your heart, and we will worry about the smaller things later." I sighed and didn't resist as she lifted me to my feet, and helped me to the bath. Afterwards, dressed in what I assumed was a pair of her own pajamas, I was helped into the bed, and tucked in.
I drifted off to sleep swiftly, and only awoke when I felt a gentle presence enter the room. After a moment, I heard the soft purrs of Yuki beside me, and footsteps that began to walk away.
"Kei?" I whispered, my mind thick and drowsy with sleep.
"No, go back to sleep," whispered a soft male voice and so I did just that, slipping into the darkness of my mind for a desperately needed rest.
AN: Okay, okay, put down the torches and pitchforks everyone. This is most defiantly NOT the end of Kei and Francesca.please just have patience. I know most of you are probably upset with how I'm having things turn out, but I assure you, I am a HOPELESS romantic, and I think that sometimes you have to take the sour with the sweet, to truly appreciate what you have!! Keep heart, this isn't the end!
My biggest thanks goes out to Emania, who has put up with my lack of contact, and her overwhelming support and shoulder should I need one to cry on. She is truly a dear friend and I am honored to be able to enjoy her ideas and aid in my works.
Tiranth(): Awww, I'm so glad you enjoyed it, even that it made you cry. I might end up with more than 2-3 chapters, let's see how the muse touches me.
Strangerthanthou: Thank you for reading and reviewing my story. I know I tend to go very angst most of the time but I think that the ending I have in mind will make all my readers very pleased. Please enjoy this chapter and the next few.
Grizabella: I love when I get *squee* reviews!! *laugh* Only because I do the exact same thing when I read a REALLY good chapter and it warms my heart that I can still get that reaction from people!! I love the reactions that I got from you, because that is exactly why I write. To get these sorts of reactions from my readers.
Talaroh: Brilliant? *blush* Why thank you! Thanks so much for your wonderful review, and I really hope you're as pleased with this chapter as you have been. ^_^
jschu25: Thank you so much for your comments. I'm so glad that the emotions that I was trying to convey with my characters has reached you so powerfully. I only know to be able to continue to create such well rounded characters.
pony girl(): I'm glad that you and your sisters are enjoying my work so much. If you did print out a hard copy, I'm sure your printer is as tired as mine, because this is running over 250+ pages, but I'm glad that you enjoy it enough to keep another copy around.
Bluefuzzyelf: Yeah, I love a good fluff. A little sap sometimes is okay, but after a while, it becomes way too sweet. I am a hopeless romantic, and I try to put that into my writing.
evilfire4321: I'm sorry you'll probably be disappointed after you read this next chapter, but I hope you continue to read and review!
Pruningshears: Don't worry, I'm not that cool either. Best thing about characters, you can make them out to be what is more than you could behave in real life. Francesca is one of my more outgoing characters, and I'm so glad she's been received in such an enthusiastic way!
Buritsutsunei : I'm sorry it made you cry-well, I'm sorta not sorry, after all, that's what I was trying to accomplish, was to bring emotions to my readers. Thank you very much for enjoying my stories, and I hope I don't disappoint your expectations in the final chapters.
Funky Nassau: Aww Nassau, that's touching!! I'm so glad I inspire you! Good luck with your own stories, which are wicked awesome in their own right *plug to everyone* You must check out her stories, they're very kewl!!
Diana-sama: Awww, I love the bubble anime eyes. *giggle* You're such an awesome reviewer and you're making me blush. I do write my own stuff, and they're all a very work in progress, but someday I plan on putting them out on fictionpress. Net. But thank you once again for your support and I do hope you'll keep reading my stories!
Harm Marie: Well, you'll see, in the meanwhile, keep reading.
rose-whip123: *blush* Author of the year, well I don't know! I know there are far better authors than I, but I really appreciate the compliment!
inuyasha lover23454: *gasp* I'm an unpleasant lifeform? Just because I write angst? *wipes her eyes* I'm just trying to convey the feelings of my characters, well I'm sorry that you feel that way.
Pri: Thanks so much, I'll try and figure out how to get that picture working again.
From: Inu Girl(): I'm sorry about the cliffies, but they do keep people coming back to find out what happens next ^_^ . You shouldn't call your teacher a baka, believe me. I'm a teacher in training and its not easy to be a teacher. They have to do so much stuff that you don't see, and they work hard for not enough money. Anyway, those are my pearls of wisdom. Outside that, thank you for being such a continuous reader and reviewer!! To answer your question about how Kei is going to live so long, I've come up with a whole new solution to that, but it won't be revealed till the last chapter. Sorry, but I can't spoil it for you ^_^ Don't worry, as much as I seem to love angst, I am a hopeless romantic and I LOVE happy endings. I promise you!! I'm also very sorry to hear about little Sango and little Shippo.
Of Memories Past: Even though this review was for Cry, I have to say here, how honored I am to have you enjoy one of my stories. I think you are one of the most gifted writers that Fan Fiction has to offer, and I'm so happy that you took the time to read and review one of mine!! For everyone, you have to read Memories' stories.
~~*~~ Francesca We traveled for another night and day, and it was just before the sun began to set over the far hills that Kirara began to act very strangely. My Empathy was just starting to come back, much to my relief. I had feared that I had somehow shorted it out with the battle, but as had begun to be proven, I had merely exhausted my resources. Kirara seemed overly excited, almost itchy in my mind and I kept looking over at her.
"Are you alright," I whispered and saw her ears perk up, but she never looked at me. It came in waves, this strange new excitement and this overwhelming need to get home. I tried to shake it off, but just as my empathy was weak, my control was weaker still.
"Rose?" Kei whispered in my ear.
"It's Kirara, I can't figure what's bothering her, but-" I began but Mistero suddenly yowled and began to descend. I grabbed onto his fur, and felt the shock of excitement jolt through his body into mine.
"What's going on?" Aki asked worriedly but I could only shake my head.
"I'm not sure, but we're definitely landing," I said and looked out over the land. From behind the line of trees, I saw smoke.
"Someone's over there," I said and Kei looked over my shoulder. I could see his profile from the corner of my eye as he leaned forward, his eyes closing and his nose twitching.
"Mistero, Kirara. Hold out just a little longer, we're almost home," he called and Mistero growled but rose a little in the air, Kirara following his stead. Sure enough, we cleared the line of trees and I saw the very familiar rice fields rising up from the ground. Faces turned upwards to greet us and a few of the younger villagers began running towards the huts, excitement radiating off of them. I sighed softly; we were home.
Kei's arm snaked around my waist and I smiled, leaning back against him as we descended. A crowd had gathered near Kagome's hut as we reached the ground and I saw the familiar blur of red streak down the hill as Kagome and Inuyasha came in from what was obviously a hunt, Kagome's arrows still on her back.
"Oh my son, you've come home," she exclaimed, wrapping Kei in a warm hug, while I stood by, watching the happy reunion.
"Kaemon, Naoko!" I heard cry out and Sango and Miroku came running across the village. Sango threw her arms around Kaemon in a display that I had not seen in a long time, and Kaemon obviously looked a little embarrassed.
Inuyasha embraced his eldest daughter and I watched carefully as he held her, worried that he would discover her secret, but as they had told me, if he smelled Naoko he didn't decipher the true meaning.
From the corner of my eye, I saw Mistero and Kirara slinking off and felt a sense of relief that they were going to get the rest they deserve. My thoughts traveled no further as three swift blurs dashed from between the legs of the crowd and into my arms, nearly knocking me over.
"Francesca-neesan!" came the chorus of happy voices and I laughed as I hugged Kohana and the kitsune kits tightly in my arms.
"Did you beat them?" Kin asked excitedly and was rewarded by a swift smack in the head from his brother.
"Of course she did, they couldn't come back if they didn't," Kioshi said in a very matter-of-factly tone, to which Kin made a face. Kohana stared at me a moment before glancing down at my neck. Her little nose twitched slightly and she tilted her head to the side.
"You smell a lot like Keitaro," she said, her voice holding both a question and a statement and I felt my cheeks flush up.
The twins glanced at my neck, and then in chorus chimed, "AHHHH!"
I was taken aback as they pointed at my neck and yelled in unison, "Papa! Keitaro bit Francesca!"
I wished the earth would swallow me whole or if not, the fire from my cheeks consume me as Shippou carefully stepped up and removed the kits from my arms.
"You'll understand when you're older," he said almost too calmly but I simply couldn't speak, I was too embarrassed. The townspeople laughed politely and Keitaro decided to rescue me once again, wrapping his arm around my waist and pulling me close.
"Mother, Father. I'd like for you to meet my mate, Francesca." He said with an air of pride and dignity. Kohana glanced at him, then me and a bright beam of a smile lit up on her face.
"You're really my nee-chan now, right?" she squealed and at my nod, wrapped her arms around my neck and held me tight.
"MOTHER!" came a cry from one of the huts as Aiko came running to us, her face pale.
"Something's wrong with Kirara," she exclaimed breathlessly. "And I think there's another fire cat trying to hurt her!" she screamed and everyone turned on their heel to follow the hysterical girl. I glanced at Kei who looked just as surprised as I and we took off running. Up ahead, I saw Mistero standing over Kirara, growling loudly at the coming group and when I realized that no one knew about his existence except those that had traveled with me, I took advantage of a little of the youkai power I shared with Kei and leapt over them all, landing in front of Mistero.
"Stop, he's not hurting her! He's her mate!" I cried and saw Sango's face grow white.
"Mate? But in all these years, she's never taken a mate-" she whispered.
"Perhaps she just hadn't found the right one," Miroku said gently, trying to calm his wife.
A wave of excitement swept over me from behind, and as I tried to steady myself, Kohana glanced over my shoulder and made a face.
"She smells all funny," she commented and I sighed.
"Kirara is going to have kittens," I said, pausing as another wave hit me, "Probably any minute now, I think we should leave her to her duties."
Sango's face grew even whiter, "Kittens?!"
Miroku just sighed softly, "Ara ara, come now Sango, and let's give Kirara the space she needs." He gently turned his wife by the shoulders and lead her away, the group following his example. I turned my head before leaving, glancing at Mistero but his look told me inexplicitly, he wasn't moving from Kirara's side. I nodded, and smiled, walking back to Kagome's hut where everyone had gathered.
"What happened with the strange creatures," spoke up one villager as soon as I had reappeared.
"Yes, was the journey difficult?"
"Where did you find them?"
"What were they?"
"How did you defeat them?"
The questions flew at me like arrows and I flinched under the interrogation. Kohana saw the look on my face and hugged me closer, as if she could try and protect me.
"Please everyone," Kagome spoke, standing before me as if she could shield me from the questions by her presence. "They've probably had a very exhausting journey, and its already night. I'm sure that all your questions can wait until the morning, so please let's give them some time to rest," Kagome spoke up sternly. At the villagers' looks of uncertainty, Kagome sighed. "I'm sure everyone will answer whatever questions you have in the morning," she insisted, and slowly, the villagers began to disperse.
Kagome didn't need to tell anyone twice, Sango and Miroku motioned for Kaemon and Naoko to join them, and I watched them leave. Naoko glanced once over his shoulder at Maeko and I felt the twinge of separation fall between them. After traveling together for so long, even being on opposite ends of the village had become too much distance.
"Come, I have dinner waiting for us," Kagome said gently and Keitaro wrapped his arm around my waist, much to Kohana's delight, and lead me back to their hut. Once there, he managed to pull a very protesting Kohana from my arms, as we sat down near the center fire. The warmth of the flames made the room almost too comfortable and I felt weariness begin to drag on me, but Kei sat behind me and wrapped me up in his arms, the contact reminding me that I needed to stay awake, if not for a little while longer.
Kagome took a seat beside her husband, who had remained silent this entire time, with nothing but a scowl on his face.
"What's wrong?" she whispered softly. I started and watched as her eyes lifted from the fire into my face, and I felt as if my very soul were being looked into. It made me quickly look away.
"What happened out there?" she asked, "There is something amiss here, something different about you Francesca, and I do not mean the mating."
I flushed quickly. It was a little embarrassing, to be faced with your husband's family and suddenly feel like they knew exactly what you had been doing. We were newlyweds, in a sense, as they had once been, but I really didn't want to think about that right now.
"Her scent has changed," Inuyasha spoke softly. "It smells like leaves slowly drying on the branch" Inuyasha's eyes looked at me intensely, made even more exquisite by the firelight reflected there, and I couldn't hold his stare.I looked down. I didn't want to tell them, I didn't want to burden them with what was my problem.
I saw Kohana's face, watching me curiously, and felt a twinge of regret. I had already broken so many promises to that child, even if I wanted to tell them what was happening, I couldn't bear to see look of pain and confusion that I knew was going to be waiting for me when all came clear.
"Nee-chan, you look so sad," she whispered and I smiled bravely.
"You see, Mother and Father, we found the source-"Keitaro began explaining and I placed a hand on his knee, silencing him. This was my story to tell.
"We found out why I came through the well, and why I could not return home. I was called here to destroy the Sorrow, and now that we have, I have a limited time before I have to go home."
Kagome looked a little confused by this, so I took a breath, and looked straight into her eyes, "This time is not my own, my soul does not belong here, and when the time given to me fades, I have to return home, or I will- " I swallowed the last word, feeling the sting of tears rise to my eyes. I couldn't say it, but I didn't need to.
Kagome's eyes widened, and she glanced at Keitaro, probably for confirmation. What she must have seen in his eyes must have convinced her.
"What-Why-How-How much time do you have?" she asked softly.
"We don't know," Keitaro spoke up, "But we're going to try and fight it. This won't destroy our happiness, we've already decided. We're going to live out our lives here, for as long as we can."
Kagome looked to her husband, who nodded, and she sighed, "We were hoping to save this as a surprise, but perhaps now is a good time." Kagome's hand found Inuyasha's as if it were instinct, and I watched as he absently squeezed it in. "After we left your uncle's, we returned to the village and began preparing a gift for the two of you." Kagome rose to the window and looked back at us. "The villages helped of course, no one loves good tidings more than they do, and we've- well come see." She pushed aside the covering and motioned for us to rise to look outside.
In the growing twilight we couldn't see much, but following the line of her finger, I saw a hut just on the edge of the village, made of newly cut wood, and slightly larger than the rest.
"They-" I whispered, turning to look at Keitaro, "They made us a home!"
He smiled and wrapped his arms around me warmly, staring out at this gift, and he glowed with pure peace and contentment. I smiled, and for that moment all our troubles vanished. We both had everything we wanted, acceptance, happiness, a home of our own, and a loving family, but most importantly we had each other.
The next day we held a meeting, both humans and youkai alike appeared and we all told our story, the adventure we had faced and we answered the questions as best we could. Of course, the one question we were not prepared for, came from a young girl.
"Francesca-sama," she piped up from her mother's arms, "Are you and Keitaro going to get married?"
Everyone laughed at this innocent question and I couldn't help but smile, "Perhaps, do you think we should?"
She glanced up at me in awe that an adult would take her opinion so seriously as she replied honestly, "Yes, because when there's a wedding, we always have a big festival and I like festivals."
I felt Kei's hands slide up my arms as he moved to kneel behind me, "Well, that sounds like a good enough reason to me as well. I like festivals too!"
The little girl blushed fiercely and buried her face in her mother's shoulder. I whispered under my breath to him, "I don't quite know what a marriage here entails. I don't want to put a burden on anyone. I don't need a marriage to prove anything to anyone."
He smiled into my hair as he whispered back, "Don't worry, I heard some of the villagers talking about it already, they're even more anxious than we are. Most of them know that we're mates, so this is only a small formality. Besides, I really do like festivals." His voice pitched just slightly and I could almost hear the beg in his voice.
"Well, as long as it doesn't trouble everyone too much," I whispered in return and his excitement swept over me like a warm wave. I smiled and was grateful for the lack of attention that was being paid us as instantly everyone began discussing plans and making arrangements.
"I'm not even sure what to wear," I said and saw Sango and Kagome turn to look at me.
"I could try and come up with something Western-style," Kagome offered and I shook my head.
"I don't want to be any extra trouble to anyone," I said and she shook her head, "Nonsense, this isn't trouble at all. After all, you're now my daughter, so of course I want to make your wedding as special as you deserve."
"You'd better listen to her Francesca," Sango said laughing, "I tried to convince her I wanted a small private celebration for my wedding and well, she can be very persistent. The more I fought, the more elaborate everything became." She ducked gracefully behind me as the heat of Kagome's scowl hit the both of us, but quickly faded as she realized that it was true.
I smiled and nodded, seeing the youthful look of excitement spread over Kagome's face as the ideas formulated in her head and I sighed. Holding out my hands before me, I clasped my wrists together, like I was bound in handcuffs, "I'm at your mercy, or lack thereof." Sango laughed at the last comment.
"Seems she understands quite well," she said. In response, Kagome made another face.
The next few days flew by in the frenzy of preparations of our wedding, and the preparation of our new house. The villagers made it perfectly clear that no matter our prior arrangements, we could not move in until we were properly wed. Kei didn't find this amusing in the least and every night I found myself swept up and out of the village at the speed of the wind to have some privacy between ourselves.
I could feel the air crackling around me as I opened my eyes to the bright if not brisk day of my wedding. I was as all brides should be, very very excited and very nervous. Why was I nervous? I didn't know and didn't dwell on it too long because Kohana came bouncing into my room to wake me. She was understandably excited because she got to wear her best kimono, and kept tugging on my arm as I rolled over and pretended to still be sleeping.
I could feel Kei's annoyance, even through the distance between us, and I felt sympathetic. Kagome felt that she should honor the western tradition of not seeing the bride before the wedding, and he was not happy. Inuyasha had to seal him inside an empty hut with scrolls to keep him away from me.
The ceremony was definitely not like anything I had seen before. I felt a little odd, having been used to a totally different form of wedding; however I followed Kagome's instructions and since I never sensed any disappointment or offense from the surrounding audience, I knew I had done well.
Miroku performed the rites, and at the end a roar of applause and cheers went up through the entire village. I could have cried- it was all I had ever hoped for on this day.
The festivities began soon after and long after the sun went down and the moon was trekking across the sky, we were still gathered around laughing and joking. Even the children stayed up with us, for there was far too much fun to be had that not even the sternest parent could have convinced them to go to bed.
The twins insisted on dancing with me, having heard Kohana's tale about my dance at Sesshomaru's, so I gathered them up in my arms and sang a merry tune, waltzing swiftly in circles, and spinning around every once in a while much to their amusement. After a few steps, some of the other adults joined me, their own children eagerly joining them. I laughed as the kitsune refused to give up their dance to Keitaro, who growled at them but to no avail. Kohana jumped into her brother's arms instead, insisting that she had to teach him the right way to dance.
Finally, as little eyes began to droop and little mouths began to finally yawn, a few of the villagers trickled off to sleep. Kei and I waited until the majority had left and then at the insistence of his parents and family, we headed to start our new life in our new home.
I wish I could say that we lived happily ever after, for that always seems to come with a story too fanciful to be true, but that was not to be. The next two weeks were filled with all the joy and love that all newlyweds must face, with minor disagreements but enjoyable makeup following.
Kaemon continued to tutor me in fighting, and I actually became half decent with a bow, nothing compared to Maeko or Kagome, but I could hit a target at close to 100 feet. Never one to hit the center, but it was still an accomplishment. Naoko had begun his school for the children as soon as we returned and I helped him out, aiding in keeping the littlest ones focused when they wanted to go out and play. Kin and Kioshi were our biggest pranksters, and often I had to remind them that playing tricks on their schoolmates was not right. Kouga sent his youngest to join us, a shy lovely little girl that looked just like Ayame, but with her father's stubborn streak. Kin instantly took to her and they became inseparable. I even got over my teaching jitters and truly enjoyed it.
In the evenings I spent time talking with 5 members of the shard hunting team. asking them questions and learning the truth behind a great many of the stories that I knew. We laughed and joked together, and it was certainly some of the best times. I had forgotten our trials with the Sorrow, the journey that we faced, and the reality we had before us. Perhaps it was foolish of me, but when you are blissfully happy, so happy that you burst into a bright smile or even a joyous laugh for no reason, you can never see into that dark sunset.
My sunset came exactly two weeks after my wedding day, in the form of a dream. My world was blood red, and swirling around me in a fit of madness that caused silent screams to echo in my ears. I felt as if I were being pulled in a million opposite directions at the same time, with no relief anywhere to be found. I cried out for Kei, I cried out for someone, anyone, but no one heard me, all I could hear was the sound of my screams, filling the scarlet void around me.
"ROSE!" I heard suddenly and my eyes flew open. Kei was floating above me, or so it seemed, his streaked hair curtained my face, blocking his arms from my view. I felt a fire burning around me, so hot and intense that I felt as if my skin were melting on my bones. I opened my mouth to speak but my throat was too parched for words. My eyes felt like they would crack beneath my lids, and though my body was burning and dry, I could feel my sleeping clothes and the bedding beneath me soaked in ice water.
I stared up into his eyes, and desperately tried to lick my lips, if only for some small relief as I whispered thickly, "Kei, what's happening?"
He didn't respond, but scooped me up in his arms, and took off out the door, heading for the woods. I couldn't do much but rest in his arms, even my limbs refused to aid me in my struggle. He leapt into the nearby pool and I felt my breath catch in my throat as shards of ice pierced my skin, or so it felt. I knew that the water was only mildly cool the day before, having bathed there with Kohana, but now it felt artic fresh. He knelt in the water bringing the level to my chin as he gently scooped water over my brow and gently dripped some into my mouth. I swallowed painfully, my throat felt like it was squeezed shut.
"Kei, Francesca," I heard and from the corner of my eye I saw a flash of red, white and black, and saw Kagome leap from her husband's back and jump into the water.
"Your father smelled your scent run by, what happened?" she asked.
"I don't know, I woke up and she was groaning and tossing, and when I tried to wake her, she was burning up. I brought her here," he explained. I looked up to see fear flashing painfully on his face.
I licked my lips and looked up at him, "Kei, you know what it is." I couldn't lie; this much pain, there was only one thing it could be.
He shook his head, "I won't accept it. It hasn't been long enough." He said angrily and I used all my willpower to lift my hand to his cheek.
"Kei, we talked about this, remember?"
I felt something touch my forehead and I looked up to see a trail of tears left on his cheek. Kagome watched us silently before turning to climb out of the water.
"I'll go and prepare your things, and tell the others." She said softly and left us to ourselves.
"I said I would fight this, but there hasn't been enough time, you can't leave," he insisted defiantly and I sighed. I could feel the pull through my body still, and it took all my energy to keep this pain from him.
"Kei, I have to go. Remember our vow, that night? Enough happiness to last forever. I have that happiness in here," I let my hand drop to my chest, "and after I return home, I know you'll be there waiting for me. Remember, you promised."
He sighed and pulled me tightly against his chest, unable to speak anymore. I smiled softly as he released me, "I have until sunset, so let's make the most of it."
He nodded and gently led me back to the village where there was already a great commotion going on. As we passed some of the huts, I could see the sad look on the villager's faces, a few even bowing their heads in my passing. I wanted to yell at them, that I wasn't dead and I wasn't dying, but I had barely the energy to keep my eyes open at this point.
"Nee-chan," I heard screamed and felt Kohana running towards me, even if I couldn't see her. I knew exactly without opening my eyes what was going on. Her hair was disheveled from sleep, her nightclothes hanging loosely from her small body, and her eyes were red with tears. I had made everyone swear not to tell her what was going to happen to me, I couldn't bear causing her that pain but somehow she found out. I suspect the twins were the ones who told her.
I felt little arms wrap around me as Kei knelt to the ground, but I could do nothing but sigh against her soft cheek. She nuzzled my cheek and forehead, as if she could cool my fever by her touch, making soft whimpering sounds.
Inuyasha stepped forward and grabbed his daughter around the waist, but she refused to let go of me. I sighed as he pried her small hands from around my neck and pulled her away, as her shrill screams filled my ears.
"She promised she wouldn't go away, doesn't she love us enough?" she cried, her small voice growing shriller. I felt a tear slide down the side of my face as her words pierced my heart.
"Kei, put me down please," I whispered and he looked down at my face.
"You're too weak," he argued but I took a deep breath and lifted my head, giving him my sternest look. He sighed and carefully let my legs fall to the ground, and I felt his arms beneath my arms as I began to brace my feet. With a call of will, and a focus of the energy I didn't realize I still possessed, I stepped away from his support and walked over to Kohana, who had since been placed on the ground. She sniffled and looked up at me, and I fell to one knee.
"Kohana, know that above all, the thought that I have broken my word to you tears at my heart. But you have to understand little one, I don't have a choice. If I don't leave, I'll get very sick and probably die very quickly, and we don't want that, do we?"
She shook her head and I smiled bravely, "Good. Now, I will make you another promise, one that I know I can keep. I promise you that we will see each other again, even though it will be a very long time away. Do you think you can promise me that you'll grow up to be a very brave girl, and come find me with your brother when the time is right?"
She looked at me strangely and I smiled, "My home, isn't only a place very far away, but a time too. I was born almost 500 years from this time."
Her eyes grew very large, as does one of a child who has just discovered something rather important, "That's a very long time nee-chan," she whispered.
"Hai, it is. Which is why this might be a hard promise to keep, but I want you to try the best that you can. Do you think you can try?"
She looked pensive, and turned to her father, "Papa, can I?"
He looked to Kagome, who seemed just as puzzled. "I don't know baby, it is a very long time. I don't know exactly how long we live for. I never actually had the opportunity to ask any other hanyous."
Kohana thought about it another moment and then a look of determination crossed her face, "I'm gonna do it."
Everyone glanced down at her, and I couldn't help but smile. I had seen that tight lip, hard look of stubborn resolve before. It was the perfect blend of her parents in her small face. I quickly pulled her close, hugging her close to me as I felt a tear slide over my face. I didn't want her to see me cry, so I buried my face in her long white hair.
"I know you can," I whispered and she hugged me back. I felt my strength surge back through me then, as wave after wave of pure positive emotion flooded over me. I lifted up my head, and saw Inuyasha staring down at his daughter with pride at her fierce sense of responsibility towards me. Kagome looked like she was going to cry with joy at Kohana's strength, and Kei looking down at me, with a light shining in his eyes that warmed my soul. I carefully rose up from my knee, feeling the fever beginning to wane, and my focus growing clearer.
"Kohana, I have to go back to my hut now, and do some things, I want you to go with your parents for a little, but I'll come and say goodbye to you. I promise." She smiled bravely and reached out to squeeze my hand before turning to take her mother's.
Kei stepped forward and took my hand in his and we returned home. The hut seemed too perfect for words, soft golden wooden walls greeted my eyes as we stepped through the rush curtain that was covering the entranceway. I smiled faintly and fell to my knees on the futon.
"Are you alright," Kei asked me worriedly, and I looked up at him with a smile.
"Yes, I'm fine, just a little tired," I whispered faintly as he knelt beside me. I looked around again, "Did everything always seem so beautiful?"
I could feel his confusion and worry, so I smiled again, "Now when everything suddenly is coming to a close, I see how truly beautiful everything is." I looked down at the floor, "I wonder, after I'm gone, will all of you actually remember me? I mean, my being here probably shouldn't have been allowed. I'm from a different time after all."
"So is my mother, and there is nothing wrong with her being here."
I shook my head, "Your mother belonged in this time, because of her incarnation status, and her connection to your father. That's why only they could travel through the well. You've already tried, you can't go through!"
He shook his head, "I tried when even you couldn't get back through, -maybe there's still a chance-"
I smiled and lifted my finger to gently press it to his lips," You know we can't even try that. Even after I'm gone, who knows if the curse will still be in effect. It seems that we'll just have to do this as we always have, the long and painful way."
He smiled, that warm cocky smile that I burned into my memory as he moved closer, and brushed a strand of hair from my cheek.
"Always the optimistic one, aren't you?" he said and I laughed.
"One of us has to be," I replied and motioned to the shadow of my bag, where it had lain for these past two weeks, in the corner of the hut.
"Bring that to me, I have something to give you," I said and watched the fluidity of his movements as he glided across the floor to my bag, hooked his hand through one of the straps and returned to my side.
"I know we exchanged gifts the night of our wedding, but there was something very special I had saved, for this day." I said and reached into the small pocket of my bag, and pulled out my most treasured possessions. Gently taking his hand in mine, I opened up his palm and placed it in his hand.
"What is this?" he asked and I blushed.
"Where I come from, married couples often exchange rings as symbols of their commitment to others and a symbol of eternity with each other. I know I already have your mark, but-"
He took the ring and held it up between his forefinger and his thumb, looking at it closely, as a smile broke across his face.
"You wish to mark me in the manner of your customs," he said and then the smile grew larger.
"I would be honored to bear your mark," he said and paused as he tried to figure out exactly what he was supposed to do. I smiled and stepped forward and helped slide it over his left ring finger. He watched me, with the curious fascination of a child, and slowly held up his hand to his face.
"And in your custom this shows others that I have a mate?" he asked, his eyebrows furrowing curiously, "but this can be removed."
I sighed and nodded, "Yes, it can. Unfortunately human laws in my time are not as solid as youkai it seems," I laughed softly, "It's not even a proper wedding ring, it is a simple band that belonged to my-" my words were broken by his quick and passionate kiss.
"I do not care, it is something that you treasure, and so I shall treasure it," he whispered against my lips, and I smiled.
"In my bag are my clothes, my other clothes, if you could hand them to me," I said, feeling tired again. I reached for the ties to my hakama pants when Kei's hands fell on mine.
"Let me," he said softly, and I wasn't sure if it was a question or not.
"I don't want to be treated like an invalid," I said and he shook his head.
"I want to remember everything about you, the way your skin feels," he said trailing his fingertips along my cheek, "the way you smell," he leaned in and buried his nose against my neck, "so please let me do this."
I sighed and nodded. Slowly and delicately he helped me undress and then dress in my normal clothes. Some would find this as something perhaps erotic about his actions, but it was the purest act I had ever experienced. He treated me as if I were a delicate flower, one that could crumple at the slightest rough touch. I watched his face as he went through the motions, and his eyes were so loving and gentle that I felt as if I would cry.
Finally he helped me to my feet, and ran his hand up my cheek and through my hair, bowing his head to gently kiss my forehead, then my cheeks and finally a feather light kiss on my lips.
"You are the most beautiful woman in the world," he whispered, "I know that these years will pass and I will never see another woman as beautiful both in body and in spirit as you."
I smiled, feeling a heart-wretching tear slide down my cheek, "How can I leave you? Who would flatter me like that?"
He laughed softly, "Well, I suppose that is true, but as you said, I will be waiting there for you when you return."
I smiled and took his hand in mine, noticing that the light was coming in through the window at a different angle. It was already past midday.
"We should start walking, I want to savor everything around me before I go," I said and he reached for my bag, and knelt before me. I smiled and let him pull me up on his back, and we headed out of our home.
It was unnaturally quiet through the forest and I closed my eyes, letting my sense take in every last bit of the surrounding, burning it into my memory. Strangely enough, I couldn't feel a thing from Keitaro, and this saddened me as well. He never turned to look at me, simply walking along and as we entered the clearing and I slid off his back he quietly left my side blending into the crowd of well wishers. Little Kohana leapt into my arms and cried. I bit my lip tightly and held her close, gently running my fingers in her hair to calm her. That was when I noticed something. Her hair had been cut. She pulled her head back and draped a thin rope over my head. No, not a rope, but a carefully braided chain of her hair.
"Oh Kohana," I whispered and she smiled wiping her face, "so you won't forget me, nee-san!"
"I could never forget you!" I exclaimed emotionally. I buried my face into her cropped hair and inhaled felt her warm in my arms. "Never in a million years," I murmured into her ear, hugging her again. Then I reached around my own neck and removed my necklace, carefully clasping it around hers.
"So you won't forget me," I said softly. She fingered the thin gold chain and pendent. "Never," she vowed solemnly.
I gently put her down and knelt before the twins, who looked like two lost and very sad pups. I embraced them tightly, "Mind your papa, and grow up to be great kitsune, I want to be able to read in the history books about your exploits." I whispered in their ears and they nodded. Then I turned to the adults. Naoko was first, and handed me an ink block and brush set of my own. "For the sensei," he said bowing and I blushed. Aiko handed me a small white ball, that uncurled and opened bright magenta eyes at me.
"Kirara says to keep her, she'll protect you in your strange world," she whispered and I carefully held the kitten in my arms.
"Tell Kirara that I will keep her safe always," I replied. Kohaku presented me with a knife, made of bone, decorated with dog creatures from point to hilt. "to remember your battles and to always stay strong," he replied. I nodded and embraced him with one arm, cautious of the kitten.
Kaemon approached and almost looked shy. "I wish you would stay," he whispered sadly, I shook my head and he nodded, "I can never make up for the foolish way I behaved around you, and I only hope you know that I value you as one of my dearest friends and always will, and I pray that you find a way to forgive me." I smiled and leaned forward, giving him a feather light kiss.
"Kaemon, I forgave you when it happened. But I want you to find the happiness that you were searching for. You deserve it." He smiled and embraced me tightly, "You are now my cousin, and so I wish you all the best. Perhaps someday, in another life, I will have the chance to meet you again."
Aki embraced me next and I smiled, hugging her tightly. "Where will you go now?" I asked her and she smiled.
"I have no village to call my own, and Kagome and Inuyasha have invited me to live with them. I can help Naoko with the school. It's a new start and a joyous one."
"I wish you the best," I said and hugged her again, whispering into her hair, "Give him a chance Aki, I don't think that your fears are founded. He is truly a good man."
Aki whispered softly against my ear, "I know that, but all too often women have fluttered close to his flame, perhaps I should make him work to win me."
I laughed happily and pulled back to hold her at arms length, "Truly a woman after my own heart," I announced proudly and released her.
Sango smiled and hugged me, not really saying much but Miroku presented me with the best gift of all. He carefully unwrapped his right hand, and placed the rosary in mine. I stared unbelieving at him and he just closed my fingers over it and turned away. Maeko hugged me and whispered " I placed some dried herbs in your bag, for you, should you need them." I thanked her.
Inuyasha gave me the rosary that I had broken when I first arrived, "You have a rare kindness and a trusting heart. I only wish I had known someone like you long ago, then perhaps I wouldn't have needed this,' he smiled. "Take good care," to which I bowed, "You as well, Inuyasha."
Kagome smiled sadly, "I almost envy you, but this has been my home for longer than that. I do ask you to deliver something," she handed me a small package wrapped in linen.
"Give this to my mother and brother and burn some incense at Jii-san's shrine for me," she asked and I nodded, "Of course"
We embraced again and I placed all of my gifts in my bag carefully. The kitten had fallen asleep in my arms as I picked up the bag and looked at the well. I turned back to everyone and bowed slowly. "Thank you all for the chance to meet you and feel truly like a part of the family," I stepped up on the lip of the well, took a deep breath and jumped. I had barely cleared the well's frame when a strong hand grabbed my arm. My body jerked and the kitten grabbed onto me with all her claws. I looked up to see Keitaro's eyes shining, his beautiful face framed by his hair as he looked into my eyes.
"Don't leave me," he whispered in English and I felt him drop all reserve and all the pain and all his heartbroken love showered over me with such force that I felt giddily dizzy.
"Kei," I whispered.
"Please Francesca, please stay with me, I'll find a way, I swear I won't let you die! Please just give me a little more time!" his voice begged me with all his might.
"I can't, " I said sobbing, "YOU were always right. I don't belong here, I came to do what I had to a do now I have to go back."
"I was wrong, you belong here with me," he whispered.
"Kei," I began again when he pulled me up to his lips in one of those desperately hungry kisses you only read about in romance novels. My soul touched his in that kiss, or at least I felt that way, and I couldn't help but cry out softly as it ended.
"I will love only you Keitaro, son of Inuyasha for as long as I live and beyond," I whispered. The look on his face was happy bliss and I used that moment to pull free from his grip and fall. Before the light enveloped me, I heard his cry, "I will find you again Francesca!"
"I pray you do," I whispered and let the well consume me. It felt as if I were falling through a warm pool. All around me I felt calm, and peace, and just as quickly as it began, it ended, and I felt the cold hard ground rise up against my back.
I lay there in the dirt for a moment, staring up the well shaft, but where I had honestly hoped to see the light of the sky, was merely the dark shadows of a wooden roof.
Above me I heard the sliding of a door and anxious voices.
"I swear Mother, I was just showing her the well, and suddenly she was pulled in, just like Kagome."
"Sato, that just can't be possible. Nothing has happened with this well in many years, are you sure?"
"I'm not a fool, I know what I saw!" he yelled and I stood and cupped one hand to my mouth.
"Sato!" I yelled and instantly two heads appeared above me.
"Stand back," he called and something dropped over the edge. It was a rope ladder. I carefully placed the kitten on my shoulder and began the long climb up. My arms and legs ached and I realized I was still very weak, but the fever had subsided. I slowly peered over the edge of the well to see a very surprised Sato and a woman that bore a close resemblance to him standing there, their eyes wide.
"Um, hello," I whispered in Japanese and Sato fell backwards.
"You weren't speaking Japanese a few minutes ago," he stammered and it was my turn to look surprised.
"A- a few minutes ago?" I whispered. The woman, who I took to be the mother he was addressing stepped forward and took my hand, helping me climb out of the well before I fell again. I leaned against the stone wall of the well lip and tried to sort this all out.
"I've only been gone a few minutes?" I asked slowly, looking up as they both nodded. Relief swept over me. I wouldn't have to worry about telling everyone where I had been for over a month.
"My, my, who is this?" cooed his mother gently, and carefully pried the frightened kitten from my shoulder.
"Um, Yuki," I said in a hurry, and then thought about it. Yuki seemed as good a name as any, because curled up, she did resemble a snowball.
"Well Yuki, you look like you could go for a warm bowl of milk," she said stroking the kitten's back gently, before looking up at me.
"Perhaps you should have a good lunch first, and then you can explain everything," she offered warmly, and motioned for me to follow. I did so obediently, not quite sure how all this was happening.
****
"So, you spent a month in the past," his mother asked, leaning forward on the table, her hands folded beneath her chin.
"Yes," I said, placing my chopsticks down after finishing my rice. "This was delicious."
"But why was it only a few minutes here? I don't understand," Sato said angrily. I flinched, his anger hitting me like a hot poker.
"Sato please, the young woman has gone through enough for today, perhaps it is best if we let things rest till tomorrow," she offered.
"No, it's alright. Besides, tomorrow I have to return to Yokohama," I said. After a moment I leaned down and reached for my bag, pulling it up on my lap.
"I met Kagome," I said softly, and heard the clatter of chopsticks as both of them dropped their utensils in shock. I smiled softly, and looked up, "I know that this is a lot for you to deal with, but hear me out. She is happy, very happy with Inuyasha. They have," I smiled, blinking the tears from my eyes quickly, "they have three beautiful children. Keitaro, Maeko and Kohana." I described the three of them, and saw the excitement in the mother's eyes as she found out that two of her grandchildren inherited the adorable ears that she loved on her son in law.
I pulled out the package that Kagome had given me, and it turned out to be a very long letter addressed to her mother, and enclosed were a few old but still visible instant pictures. It seemed that Kagome had taken a camera with her. I showed the braid of hair around my neck, and told them about the life that her daughter had lived. Tears showed in the eyes of her mother, and I paused, afraid I had caused grief where I intended to bring joy.
"I'm sorry, I have hurt you," I whispered and she smiled through the wet eyes.
"Not at all my dear, you have given me more joy than in all my lifetime, I am happy that my daughter found her place in the world that she loved with the man that she loved."
I smiled and paused, wondering if I should say anything more. It was Sato who noticed this and whispered.
"There is something else, isn't there?"
I blinked and looked at him, before whispering, "There is something else, but I fear telling you. I am afraid of how you will react."
Kagome's mother reached over the table and touched my hand, "I promise, we will not be angry with you."
I nodded, "I was not worried for that, but there is something very special that I have to share with you, it concerns Keitaro. During my time there, we traveled together, with Maeko, Kaemon and Naoko, and during our travels we-" I paused and then smiled shyly.
"I married Keitaro."
I saw the look of surprise flash on her face and felt the same from Sato, causing me to bow my head.
"You think this would upset me?" she whispered after a while. I nodded my head and was shocked when she quickly stood, hurried to my side and wrapped her arms around me.
"You love my grandson, I can see it in your eyes when you said his name. I am a lucky woman to be so blessed in my family. Welcome, granddaughter."
I smiled and looked up at the older woman as I embraced her as well, feeling a warmth swell through me. It numbed the pain of my separation from my beloved, but to be so welcomed into his family, even in this time, was a great blessing.
"Now, I know you have talked much and you are tired, I can see it on your face. Sato, go and pull back the blankets to Kagome's bed," she commanded, sending the young man out of the room.
"You will go and bathe, and then rest," she insisted.
"But my hotel room, and my train ticket," I said and she smiled.
"Do not worry, I will handle everything. You need to rest your body and your heart, and we will worry about the smaller things later." I sighed and didn't resist as she lifted me to my feet, and helped me to the bath. Afterwards, dressed in what I assumed was a pair of her own pajamas, I was helped into the bed, and tucked in.
I drifted off to sleep swiftly, and only awoke when I felt a gentle presence enter the room. After a moment, I heard the soft purrs of Yuki beside me, and footsteps that began to walk away.
"Kei?" I whispered, my mind thick and drowsy with sleep.
"No, go back to sleep," whispered a soft male voice and so I did just that, slipping into the darkness of my mind for a desperately needed rest.
AN: Okay, okay, put down the torches and pitchforks everyone. This is most defiantly NOT the end of Kei and Francesca.please just have patience. I know most of you are probably upset with how I'm having things turn out, but I assure you, I am a HOPELESS romantic, and I think that sometimes you have to take the sour with the sweet, to truly appreciate what you have!! Keep heart, this isn't the end!
