Hello...
I'm dying.
Although I have whole two weeks of Easter holidays, at least today was spoiled. I had to go to the dentist. * Clutches at his cheek * "Itaiii..." My head feels like someone was bashing it on the wall, my jaw is throbbing... Ah, well. We all have to overcome different, unpleasant at the least, circumstances... At least I'll meet- Oh, well. I wont annoy Thee by my Babbling. On with the story!
NB- I changed the story a little; don't correct me, unless you must... I did it on purpose. I know what really happened. In my story Inuyasha never gets to meet his mother, and thinks that it was Sesshoumaru who killed her. Though I really liked the episodes where Sesshy used the faceless onii to trick Inuyasha.
Announcement: "I told you I don't own any of the characters!" (The original ones.)
-Chapter 2-
"Sick and Sweet"
The fire was throwing off dancing shadows, creating a nice, cozy but slightly eerie nevertheless atmosphere. Kagome sat up to see who the intruder was, only to fall back down as her head gave a particularly nasty throb.
"Are wa dare des ka?" She groaned. (Who is it?)
The newcomer crossed the floor silently and leaned down over the anxious Kagome. "I'm to guard you, my lady." He said silently, pushing a few bangs out of her face. Kagome stared. The distance between their faces was barely a few inches; she pressed her head into the pillow, pulling away from him. "Why are you frightened? Did I do something wrong?" He asked, with an undertone of concern, but then noticing her slight blush he backed away, shaking his head, wide eyed. "My lady! You misunderstood me! I was barely checking if you were all right."
Kagome sat up, rubbing her face, in an attempt to brush the sleepiness away. "I'm sorry," She mumbled. "You startled me, that's all." She finally was able to see her guard properly. He had caramel hair, rather short, and a little 'paw print' on his left cheekbone. He was holding a rather scary looking scythe, which glinted in the fire. "Ano... Why do I need a guard in the castle?" She asked her silent companion. His face not betraying any emotion, he answered. "My lady, my job is to guard you. And I don't doubt that Sesshoumaru Sama has his reasons if he put me in this place. " 'Looks like its baby sitting full time now...' though he drew the line at wearing flower chains. If this girl is going to make him into her part time toy, he's gonna appeal to Sesshoumaru-sama...
Kagome sweatdropped, studying his features, she had come across youkai of all shapes and sizes, but still couldn't get used to the fact that even the most handsome youkai was an animal of some sort, and judging by the little, brown foot-print on his cheek, the caramel color of his hair and matching clothes, with little prints all over them, he was a feline of some sort. A leopard most likely, oh, great. Now she was completely surrounded by carnivores. "Forgive me my curiosity," She began, determined to build her sentence as medieval as possible. "But what is your name?"
The guard looked surprised, and judging by his face, Kagome could tell that she asked a question that wasn't very random in this place.
"Yasunoru, my lady." Kagome waved her hand in protest, "No, no Yasunoru-kun! Just call me Kagome!" She smiled. He bowed slightly. "I appreciate the honor, my lady, but I was strictly instructed to call you 'lady', along with everyone in the castle." 'Sesshoumaru-told-them-to-call-ME-lady? Oh my.' She thought, confused. "But please call me Kagome! Or at least lady Kagome or something, I want you to use your name. Onegai."
Yasunoru smiled. "Alright, Kagome-sama it is." Kagome gave a little snort. "Well, if that's the lowest title you can use, I'll agree to it."
She looked at the doors that led to the balcony, it was completely dark outside, but since she was sleeping most of the day, she wasn't feeling sleepy in the least bit. "Tell me, Yasunoru-kun, what is there in the castle?" Yasunoru cocked his head to one side, "what do you mean, Kagome-sama?"
"Well, like gardens, or baths? You know?" Yasunoru smirked, "Of course there are certain facilities." He leaned his scythe against the wall, and started counting off the 'facilities' in the castle. "First, there is the lake, Rin-sama loves playing there, then there are the gardens, and the stable, where Sesshoumaru-sama keeps his steeds." He explained needlessly. Kagome perked up, "And Ah-Un, too?" "Yes, Kagome-sama." "But aren't there any hot springs here?" Yasunoru shook his head sadly. "Sorry, Kagome Sama, not in the castle itself." Kagome narrowed her eyes, scaring Yasunoru by the slight resemblance of someone he knew.
"So you mean you all walk around dirty?" She asked menacingly, stroking her chin theatrically. "Even Sesshoumaru... Hmm. I'll keep that in mind."
Yasunoru sweatdropped, but couldn't help noticing that the girl referred to the lord by his first name only. "Kagome sama, I said not in the castle. There are hot springs nearby, Lord Inutaisho built a nice house around it. For his second wife." He added.
Kagome couldn't help wondering, "Please, Yasunoru, how did Sesshoumarus mother die?" Yasunoru was starting to feel uncomfortable, talking to the girl about her, or him was one thing but talking of his master's tragedy was another. But seeing the girls face, that was eager to hear the news, and concerned at the same time; he felt slightly reassured.
"I don't think I have the right to tell you. And I'm not sure if I know it right, but I will try." He looked serious, "As long as you don't tell any one, and you might as well want to ask Orito." "Who's Orito?" Kagome inquired, "He is the keeper of the castle and Sesshoumaru samas advisor, or something of the sort." Kagome sighed. "Yasunoru-kun, do I look like I'll go around telling everyone about such a thing?" Yasunoru preferred to keep the answer to himself. "Please tell me, I don't even know who this Orito guy is."
Yasunoru sighed, it looked like he didn't have a choice, at least he was slightly used to it. When Sesshoumaru was away, and took Jacken with him, though that happened rarely, he had to stay with Rin, who wouldn't go to bed unless he told her one of his adventures. And right now he felt like he was telling the girl a bedtime story. He guessed it was the...Green string of fate.
"Alright, Kagome Sama, if you insist." He sighed. "Unless you might want to go to sleep." He said hopefully, but Kagome shook her head, smiling. After taking in a deep breath, Yasunoru began his story.
"Well, Sesshoumaru-sama was still a small pup when it happened, Lord Inutaisho was away in battle, like most of the time, and Sesshoumaru-sama was left at the care of his mother. But the castle suffered an unexpected attack." He paused, frowning. "Orito says that Sesshoumaru samas mother was locked in her room with Sesshoumaru Sama, for safety. There was only a small window there, and some one fired a burning arrow through it..." Kagome gasped, clasping a small hand to her mouth. "The wooden wall in which the arrow was stuck caught fire immediately. The Lady tried calling for help, but every guard was busy fending off the attackers, which weren't many, but strong, Since they were dragon youkai. The little master escaped through the small window, which wasn't enough for the Lady to get through." Yasunoru was looking at the fire all this time. Now an awkward silence hang in the room.
Yasunoru sighed once again, he wasn't there when it happened, but he heard the story from a witness. Though it wasn't Sesshoumaru.
"Orito was the only one who survived, he was one of the dragon soldiers, who saw Sesshoumaru sama climb out of the window, still holding onto his mothers hand, which was partly ablaze. He must've felt some sympathy for the young master, for he went over there and tried to rescue the Lady, but it was too late. He managed to hide Sesshoumaru-sama until the attack was over."
Yasunoru felt like he was actually there, while looking at the tamed flames in the fireplace.
"When the Lord came back from the battle, and learned of the tragedy, he killed all the soldiers, Servants and slaves in the castle in his grief." He heard Kagome gasp once again. "Save two people. Sesshoumaru Sama and Orito. Orito served since that day. It happened about eighty years ago." He sniffed the air and turned to Kagome, frowning.
"Kagome-sama?" His eyes widened. The girl was crying. There were tears running down her face, glinting like precious stones in the fires light. He didn't know what to do, since it was the first time he had come across a situation like this, He was alone in a room with a crying girl. Yasunoru walked up to her and sat on the floor next to the softly sobbing girl. "I'm sorry, Kagome-sama, I didn't mean to distress you." 'Kami. If Sesshoumaru Sama find out that I made his guest cry, by telling her his story...' he didn't want to find out. The girl was already making enough noise to wake an army with her sobbing.
"Yasunoru-kun, can I please go to sleep now?" She asked, looking up at him with full of tears, brown eyes. Yasunoru liked nothing better. "Of course, m- Kagome-sama." He said, getting up and taking his scythe. He stood next to the door, looking at the fire again, but could feel that the young woman was still feeling uncomfortable. "Um. Yasunoru-kun, are you going to stand here?" "Why, yes, Kagome-sama." 'Now that a little too much...' Thought the upset 'guest'.
Sighing, she settled down to sleep. Sleeping outside, with all the Inu taisho was one thing, but with an armed, awake, leopard youkai, and in a room was kind of different.
Pushing back all the disturbing thoughts back with a thought that when his face was inches away from hers, he was leaning over her, brushing her hair out of her face, he didn't think of anything perverted... She was quite safe.
Kagome couldn't go to sleep, the past events and the story still fresh in her mind. She was beginning to understand just how brave Sesshoumaru was when he agreed to light the lamp for her, to take the burning log out of the fireplace, then grab it with his bare hand and throw it back in. All the things he'd done, he'd done them for her.
Kagome tingled uneasily inside. With Inuyasha choosing the dead miko over her, her school and... She had enough on her plate to contend with. She glanced on the motionless Yasunoru and sighed. The sooner she gets back home the better.
But then a disturbing thought occurred in her mind. 'And then?' 'Then what?' What will going back home change? She will be able to pretend that her life is perfect, but she will have to deal with the pain inside, that will probably never subside...
The lamps and torches had all been lit by the time Kagome fell asleep. Night had fallen and a chill, spiraling breeze was giving the guards on duty a hard time keeping warm.
* * * * * * * * *
It was approaching midnight yet, tired as he was, Sesshoumaru couldn't sleep. He was pacing back and forth, his head spinning with question after unanswered question. 'Why is Orito taking so long to come back from that simple errand? What is the Dragon Hime planning? Why wont those memories leave me alone?' he rubbed his throbbing temples. 'Why is Jacken disappearing all the time?' He looked out of the window, outside, small clouds drifted across the waning moon...
He twisted on his heels and marched back to his bed. 'And there is this Miko to crown my burdens with a crown of thorns. Why does she make me feel so weird?'
He lay down on the cool, silk blankets, his stoic form becoming motionless, save the slow rising and falling of his broad chest. He relaxed his body, enjoying the coolness of the bed, but his mind refused to give him the so much desired rest, instead it kept adding more and more of needless thoughts to his already over flowing brain.
Unable to suppress it any longer, he got up, put on his robe and walked out into the darkness of the corridor. 'He must have had some of it recorded somewhere...' He thought as he made his way through the winding corridors to his fathers' study, which now became his, and was piled with letters, attires and treaties.
Finally reaching it, growling at the sleeping guard in front of it, he opened the door, and deliberately stepping on the guards' hand went in, closing the door behind him.
'Where are the treaties and the records?' He was digging through the numerous papers and scrolls, darkened with the years, he pulled one out, running over it and his eyes widened.
The scroll fell from his pale, striped hand.
It was the record of his father marrying his mother.
Why, of all the papers, he had to come across this one?
What did he do wrong so the past memories came back to haunt him?
After so many years of blocking it all out...
Forgetting it....
He picked up the parchment; he could feel the years of hatred of his father pounding in his veins- He first left his wife alone and let her die,
a muscle in his jaw twitched,
he then brought in that human woman, already pregnant with his second child-
his knuckles crackled,
when the hanyou was born, he ended up being looked after by the nasty toad,
his father was always with the human wench, and their little offspring....
A low growl rumbled in his massive chest as the parchment hissed and a few green drops fell to the floor.
He narrowed his eyes and started digging through the papers once again.
Here it was. He took the parchment and walked over to the low table; sitting down behind it, he unrolled it and began reading. So this is what has been going on. The Dragons wanted his fathers land, but he showed them that he doesn't agree by sending their messengers head back... "The fool." He snarled. Yes, the dragons weren't numerous back then, but now their number increased by dangerous numbers, and it was too late to try and sign some treaties.
The Dragons wanted revenge. A head. His.
He tossed the scroll away. He has to get ready for an attack, incase it will be unexpected- but he really has to mobilize an army. 'I have my assassins, my every individual soldier is as good as an army, they have most achieved the military perfection. Their strategy is perfect.' He thought, looking at the ornate design on the low table. 'But will that be enough?' For the second time in his life, Sesshoumaru-sama had to admit that he was scared. The dragons know not the word called 'Mercy'. That was all right. Neither did he.
The Dragons never planned or schemed. They attacked. They killed. They destroyed everything in their path once they were given their freedom.
They burnt everything down to the ground, until there was nothing left but a scorched plain...
That wasn't alright.
They used fire. And with fire around, Sesshoumaru wasn't the Sesshoumaru everyone knew and feared.
He knew they wouldn't want a battle. They want a massacre, and since they always got their way, it was no way that they will simply give in and fight fairly this time. With fire around, it will be simply a massacre, because the infamous, terrifyingly omniscient Sesshoumaru will lose himself as soon as he will come in touch with their fire, at the most. His soldiers, seeing that the unbeatable Sesshoumaru is scared, will simply allow them selves to be turned into a bloody mess.
One thing was certain. Once the war is over, there will be no one, perhaps save Rin, or the toad to mourn him. That is, if they survive. Of which he was certain, wouldn't happen...
This war means death. His. And those around him.
Not like he objected strongly. He was only about fifteen, when he first came across the Dragons, when he first learned that it was easy to die. And let others.
It was staying alive that was much harder. And he chose the latter on many occasions, not because he had a grand love for life, but because it was living that was harder. And keeping those around his alive...
He looked into Deaths bottomless, empty eyes so often, he could call her his best friend. He mustn't lose this war and become her prisoner.
The Lord of western lands was determined to live.
And defeat the Dragon Hime, who was most likely planning the same. If she was planning anything at all.
Sesshoumaru went back to the ancient, made of heavy, red wood chest and continued looking through the ancient records of past wars, not noticing it was already morning...
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*** * * * * * * *
Inuyasha was sitting up on his tree, watching the blood red sun slowly rise over the distant, misty mountains. His hair and the white shirt were covered in little pearls of dew, chilling him to the bone, and bringing up some unpleasant memories. Although Naraku was defeated, and Shikon no Tama was complete- his life still seemed empty...
Kikyous head was resting peacefully on his chest, her form was motionless, not even a muscle moved. She looked like she was... Dead. Inuyasha adjusted his fire rat robe so it covered her fragile form. He sighed deeply, wishing she was breathing, or mumbling in her sleep. Or there was at least one hair out of place so he could adjust it.
But she was perfect.
He suppressed a deep, shuddering sigh and looked away unto the now orange sun, and wondered where Kagome was. Probably at home, studying for her... Tests. Kikyou was right. He couldn't choose them both. And he chose Kikyou for two reasons, or more than that. But he was sure of two of them. Kikyou had nowhere to go. Kagome had to return to her time. Kagome was new here, happy and innocent, with her life ahead of her. Kikyou was there because of him. The only reason she remained walking the face of this world she hated so much, was him. She had no past. And no future.
He kissed Kikyous cold forehead, wishing it was warm and smelled of the sun and fruits... Instead of a breeze, a slight and gentle one, but coming from the graveyard, and chilling to the very marrow of the bone...
** ** ** *** ** ** * * *
Kagome slipped into a warm, caramel dream.
She was dancing in a huge hall, with polished wooden floor and semitransparent paper walls, The sun was shining through them, not dark and not too bright. Just enough to make Kagome smile and continue her dance, she finally fell down, exhausted on a mattress, what it seemed in slow motion. Breathless, she laughed and laughed, feeling a weird happiness inside her, such as she has never felt, or probably ever will in her life.
It was a happy dream.
Until the whispering began, that is. "Very cozy, very nice," it hissed. "But this is not where you belong, is it?" In her dream, Kagome looked around. A gaunt, cloaked figure was slinking off through a wall. As it did so, it scratched a long sharp fingernail over the smooth, polished surface. Kagome stepped tentatively forwards. She stared at the scratch in the wood: it was weeping like an open wound. Suddenly the whispering returned directly in her ear.
"I'm still here," it said. "I'm always here."
Kagome spun around, she saw no one. "You silly little fool. If you want to discover your destiny, you must follow me." Kagome stared in horror as a bony hand with long talons emerged from the folds of the cloak, reached up and clasped the hood. It was about to reveal its face. Kagome tried to run away, but she couldn't move. All at once, the creature cackled with hideous laughter and let its hand drop by its side. "You shall know me soon enough," it hissed, and leaned towards her conspiratorially.
Kagomes heart pounded furiously. She felt the warmth of the creatures' breath against her ear, and smelt a sumptuous mistiness that seeped from its hooded cloak.
"Kagome-sama!"
The sudden cry exploded inside Kagomes' head. She shouted out in fear, opened her eyes and looked around her in confusion. It was light and she was in bed. She looked at Yasunorus' worried face and everything came back to her.
"Is everything ok? Do you want something?" She asked. Yasunoru watched her closely. "Kagome-sama. Are you alright?" he asked, placing a clawed hand on her forehead and shaking his head. "Oh, I'm fine, Yasunoru-kun. Just a bad dream." Yasunoru got up, walking to the door. "You know, Kagome-sama. Everything has a meaning. Even such simple things like dreams all carry a meaning within them." He said earnestly, opening the door. "Where are you going?" She asked weakly, stretching her arms in the process. Yasunoru smiled at her sleepy look and stepped outside, almost closing the door, "I'll go get some tea for you, Kagome-sama." And with that he left.
Kagome felt miserable. Not only she burdened so many people with her presence, she turned a soldier into a lady in waiting. And judging by the mark he had, he was a youkai of noble birth. She got up and walked over to the door that led to the balcony. She pulled it open, yawning – and froze in mid yawn.
Beneath her lay a magnificent garden of blossoming sakura, giant maple trees, roses, evergreen trees and bushes, little tea houses and springs swarming with koi.
She went out onto the balcony with faltering steps, gaping at the beauty and peace the garden radiated, when Yasunoru came in, carrying a tray, with small teacups and something in a bowl that strangely resembled dried caterpillars.
Kagome ran up to him, blushing and took the tray from the startled youkai, placing it upon the small table she spotted earlier out on the balcony. Yasunoru followed her, unsure of how he should interpret the girls strange behavior. She settled down on the wooden floor, and poured the tea into two small cups, pushing one of them towards Yasunoru, gesturing for him to sit down. "Have some too, I'm so sorry I turned you into a nanny of some sort!" 'you had to say that. Didn't you ...' he thought, looking at the girl as if she had just produced a bouquet of Rins favorite flowers from her ear.
"Sit down! I can't just relax while you are standing there," Obeying the girl out of pure instincts, he sat himself down, and sipped at the tea, not taking his eyes off the smiling Miko. "So when am I going to start attending to my duties?" She asked cheerfully. Yasunoru lifted an eyebrow. "What duties, Kagome-sama?" He asked, thinking, 'Perhaps the fever is too high...' "Well, looking after Rin of course!" She cried, putting down her cup clumsily, spilling a little in the process. "Sesshoumaru took me with him because Rin said she wanted me as her new caretaker! Didn't he tell you anything?" Yasunoru put his cup down, "Sesshoumaru-sama only instructed us to treat you like a high ranking guest and see to all your needs. And he told us to make sure you stay away from Rin-sama until you are better."
"Oh..." She said. 'OH...'
"I was wondering..." She finally dared to spill what was on her mind. "its just that.." "Yes? Kagome-sama." "My things are left with my... Friends. And I need them." Yasunoru smiled. "Lord Sesshoumaru has already sent someone to fetch them for you."
Kagome wanted to believe she was dreaming...
Kagome got up, feeling slightly nauseous from her sickness, picked up the tray and walked towards the door, Yasunoru jumped up and ran towards her.
"Kagome-sama! You shouldn't! You are still weak." He cried, causing her to swing around in surprise and slip on the polished floor, she dropped the tray and crashed into Yasunoru, but since she barely reached his collarbones, she merely bounced off his chest, "Eeek!" she grabbed onto his robe and caused him to fall on top of her...
At the same time the door slid open.. Revealing a very... Angry Sesshoumaru, Taiyoukai of the West.
Yasunoru froze in horror. He's never seen his master so angry... Regaining his self-control he cleared his throat, getting Kagomes attention.
"Yasunoru. What... are you doing to my guest?" He asked, ice lacing every word.
Yasunoru jumped to his feet, helping up the dazed Miko.
"Nothing, my Lord. It was merely a clumsy accident!" He said hurriedly, collecting the broken china and putting it on the tray.
"Indeed."
Sesshoumaru shifted his death glare to Kagome, who wished for instant death.
Getting into an awkward situation with Sesshoumarus' guard was one thing.
Getting into an awkward situation with Sesshoumarus' guard in front of Sesshoumaru was another...
"W...Kagome. I brought your... Things." He said coldly, placing her backpack on the floor.
"T-Thank you...Sesshoumaru..." But the answer to her gratitude was a 'swish' and a 'click' as the door closed behind the Taiyoukai. And the clatter of broken china as Yasunoru continued collecting it and putting it on the tray. Having finally finished his task, he left silently, without so much as a glance at her.
Tears welled up in her eyes, now, because of her clumsiness, Yasunoru is mad at her and Sesshoumaru thinks Kami knows what... A single tear ran down her cheek as she clutched onto Shikon no Tama, which was still hanging around her neck, and looked at her bag...
When will she actually learn to pick her accidents a bit more carefully?..
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
Phew! I guess toothache is kinda useful... Look at this long chapter! I mean... Woah... Can't believe I actually spent so long occupied with one activity... And that was lazy 'ole me...
So here's the second chapter of 'Wakarimasen' ... To be honest, I have no idea how long it's going to be, I love long chapters, so I'll try to make mine long, too...
Oh, and please tell me what you think of the chapter!
NB-there are pictures of Yasunoru and Haoko in Mediaminer. Go check out.
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Thank you my dear Reviewers! 'Ye are the salt of the earth!' As sayeth the Black Book. (Or brown. It comes in different colors. Sometimes has a cross in front.)
Regina Lucifer: I'm very glad you like it!
*sigh * If only werld was filled with nice people like you!
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Aznpals: Sheesh... * blushes furiously * thanks... This Kamashii Taihen Sama is not worthy of such high praise...
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Bad Girl 14: * Scratches head * 'well, Kagome just caught a little cold.
And perhaps a little depression, and maybe some STDs... (Just kidding on
the last part..)
* gets bashed on the poor head by gf. * "Pervert!" *rubs head * "Sigh.. My gfs' favorite part is when Sango bashes poor Miroku on the head with that horrible Hiraikotsu thingy... I'm so glad she doesn't have one!" Shippou will appear soon, don't worry. I like the little dude too much to leave him out of action! Yes, Rin is So Kawai! * sigh *
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Waizu Yoru Ame Otome : "Thanks! The title's cool innit? ^_^' See? I tried hard to please you, do you like my paragraphing now? Don't tell me they are too small though... * death glare * Your name's not that bad either...
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Gizmo369: Thanks! Really appreciate your effort to review! I know how hard it is... Must... click... button... * drops dead * Thanks so much!
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Sanosuke Hidane: Yep. Vanilla Ice Cream. Though I feel kinda stupid, describing guys so soppily. One might think I'm a bit of a g... Ah, well, HUGE thanks for Liking, and Reviewing!
I'm dying.
Although I have whole two weeks of Easter holidays, at least today was spoiled. I had to go to the dentist. * Clutches at his cheek * "Itaiii..." My head feels like someone was bashing it on the wall, my jaw is throbbing... Ah, well. We all have to overcome different, unpleasant at the least, circumstances... At least I'll meet- Oh, well. I wont annoy Thee by my Babbling. On with the story!
NB- I changed the story a little; don't correct me, unless you must... I did it on purpose. I know what really happened. In my story Inuyasha never gets to meet his mother, and thinks that it was Sesshoumaru who killed her. Though I really liked the episodes where Sesshy used the faceless onii to trick Inuyasha.
Announcement: "I told you I don't own any of the characters!" (The original ones.)
-Chapter 2-
"Sick and Sweet"
The fire was throwing off dancing shadows, creating a nice, cozy but slightly eerie nevertheless atmosphere. Kagome sat up to see who the intruder was, only to fall back down as her head gave a particularly nasty throb.
"Are wa dare des ka?" She groaned. (Who is it?)
The newcomer crossed the floor silently and leaned down over the anxious Kagome. "I'm to guard you, my lady." He said silently, pushing a few bangs out of her face. Kagome stared. The distance between their faces was barely a few inches; she pressed her head into the pillow, pulling away from him. "Why are you frightened? Did I do something wrong?" He asked, with an undertone of concern, but then noticing her slight blush he backed away, shaking his head, wide eyed. "My lady! You misunderstood me! I was barely checking if you were all right."
Kagome sat up, rubbing her face, in an attempt to brush the sleepiness away. "I'm sorry," She mumbled. "You startled me, that's all." She finally was able to see her guard properly. He had caramel hair, rather short, and a little 'paw print' on his left cheekbone. He was holding a rather scary looking scythe, which glinted in the fire. "Ano... Why do I need a guard in the castle?" She asked her silent companion. His face not betraying any emotion, he answered. "My lady, my job is to guard you. And I don't doubt that Sesshoumaru Sama has his reasons if he put me in this place. " 'Looks like its baby sitting full time now...' though he drew the line at wearing flower chains. If this girl is going to make him into her part time toy, he's gonna appeal to Sesshoumaru-sama...
Kagome sweatdropped, studying his features, she had come across youkai of all shapes and sizes, but still couldn't get used to the fact that even the most handsome youkai was an animal of some sort, and judging by the little, brown foot-print on his cheek, the caramel color of his hair and matching clothes, with little prints all over them, he was a feline of some sort. A leopard most likely, oh, great. Now she was completely surrounded by carnivores. "Forgive me my curiosity," She began, determined to build her sentence as medieval as possible. "But what is your name?"
The guard looked surprised, and judging by his face, Kagome could tell that she asked a question that wasn't very random in this place.
"Yasunoru, my lady." Kagome waved her hand in protest, "No, no Yasunoru-kun! Just call me Kagome!" She smiled. He bowed slightly. "I appreciate the honor, my lady, but I was strictly instructed to call you 'lady', along with everyone in the castle." 'Sesshoumaru-told-them-to-call-ME-lady? Oh my.' She thought, confused. "But please call me Kagome! Or at least lady Kagome or something, I want you to use your name. Onegai."
Yasunoru smiled. "Alright, Kagome-sama it is." Kagome gave a little snort. "Well, if that's the lowest title you can use, I'll agree to it."
She looked at the doors that led to the balcony, it was completely dark outside, but since she was sleeping most of the day, she wasn't feeling sleepy in the least bit. "Tell me, Yasunoru-kun, what is there in the castle?" Yasunoru cocked his head to one side, "what do you mean, Kagome-sama?"
"Well, like gardens, or baths? You know?" Yasunoru smirked, "Of course there are certain facilities." He leaned his scythe against the wall, and started counting off the 'facilities' in the castle. "First, there is the lake, Rin-sama loves playing there, then there are the gardens, and the stable, where Sesshoumaru-sama keeps his steeds." He explained needlessly. Kagome perked up, "And Ah-Un, too?" "Yes, Kagome-sama." "But aren't there any hot springs here?" Yasunoru shook his head sadly. "Sorry, Kagome Sama, not in the castle itself." Kagome narrowed her eyes, scaring Yasunoru by the slight resemblance of someone he knew.
"So you mean you all walk around dirty?" She asked menacingly, stroking her chin theatrically. "Even Sesshoumaru... Hmm. I'll keep that in mind."
Yasunoru sweatdropped, but couldn't help noticing that the girl referred to the lord by his first name only. "Kagome sama, I said not in the castle. There are hot springs nearby, Lord Inutaisho built a nice house around it. For his second wife." He added.
Kagome couldn't help wondering, "Please, Yasunoru, how did Sesshoumarus mother die?" Yasunoru was starting to feel uncomfortable, talking to the girl about her, or him was one thing but talking of his master's tragedy was another. But seeing the girls face, that was eager to hear the news, and concerned at the same time; he felt slightly reassured.
"I don't think I have the right to tell you. And I'm not sure if I know it right, but I will try." He looked serious, "As long as you don't tell any one, and you might as well want to ask Orito." "Who's Orito?" Kagome inquired, "He is the keeper of the castle and Sesshoumaru samas advisor, or something of the sort." Kagome sighed. "Yasunoru-kun, do I look like I'll go around telling everyone about such a thing?" Yasunoru preferred to keep the answer to himself. "Please tell me, I don't even know who this Orito guy is."
Yasunoru sighed, it looked like he didn't have a choice, at least he was slightly used to it. When Sesshoumaru was away, and took Jacken with him, though that happened rarely, he had to stay with Rin, who wouldn't go to bed unless he told her one of his adventures. And right now he felt like he was telling the girl a bedtime story. He guessed it was the...Green string of fate.
"Alright, Kagome Sama, if you insist." He sighed. "Unless you might want to go to sleep." He said hopefully, but Kagome shook her head, smiling. After taking in a deep breath, Yasunoru began his story.
"Well, Sesshoumaru-sama was still a small pup when it happened, Lord Inutaisho was away in battle, like most of the time, and Sesshoumaru-sama was left at the care of his mother. But the castle suffered an unexpected attack." He paused, frowning. "Orito says that Sesshoumaru samas mother was locked in her room with Sesshoumaru Sama, for safety. There was only a small window there, and some one fired a burning arrow through it..." Kagome gasped, clasping a small hand to her mouth. "The wooden wall in which the arrow was stuck caught fire immediately. The Lady tried calling for help, but every guard was busy fending off the attackers, which weren't many, but strong, Since they were dragon youkai. The little master escaped through the small window, which wasn't enough for the Lady to get through." Yasunoru was looking at the fire all this time. Now an awkward silence hang in the room.
Yasunoru sighed once again, he wasn't there when it happened, but he heard the story from a witness. Though it wasn't Sesshoumaru.
"Orito was the only one who survived, he was one of the dragon soldiers, who saw Sesshoumaru sama climb out of the window, still holding onto his mothers hand, which was partly ablaze. He must've felt some sympathy for the young master, for he went over there and tried to rescue the Lady, but it was too late. He managed to hide Sesshoumaru-sama until the attack was over."
Yasunoru felt like he was actually there, while looking at the tamed flames in the fireplace.
"When the Lord came back from the battle, and learned of the tragedy, he killed all the soldiers, Servants and slaves in the castle in his grief." He heard Kagome gasp once again. "Save two people. Sesshoumaru Sama and Orito. Orito served since that day. It happened about eighty years ago." He sniffed the air and turned to Kagome, frowning.
"Kagome-sama?" His eyes widened. The girl was crying. There were tears running down her face, glinting like precious stones in the fires light. He didn't know what to do, since it was the first time he had come across a situation like this, He was alone in a room with a crying girl. Yasunoru walked up to her and sat on the floor next to the softly sobbing girl. "I'm sorry, Kagome-sama, I didn't mean to distress you." 'Kami. If Sesshoumaru Sama find out that I made his guest cry, by telling her his story...' he didn't want to find out. The girl was already making enough noise to wake an army with her sobbing.
"Yasunoru-kun, can I please go to sleep now?" She asked, looking up at him with full of tears, brown eyes. Yasunoru liked nothing better. "Of course, m- Kagome-sama." He said, getting up and taking his scythe. He stood next to the door, looking at the fire again, but could feel that the young woman was still feeling uncomfortable. "Um. Yasunoru-kun, are you going to stand here?" "Why, yes, Kagome-sama." 'Now that a little too much...' Thought the upset 'guest'.
Sighing, she settled down to sleep. Sleeping outside, with all the Inu taisho was one thing, but with an armed, awake, leopard youkai, and in a room was kind of different.
Pushing back all the disturbing thoughts back with a thought that when his face was inches away from hers, he was leaning over her, brushing her hair out of her face, he didn't think of anything perverted... She was quite safe.
Kagome couldn't go to sleep, the past events and the story still fresh in her mind. She was beginning to understand just how brave Sesshoumaru was when he agreed to light the lamp for her, to take the burning log out of the fireplace, then grab it with his bare hand and throw it back in. All the things he'd done, he'd done them for her.
Kagome tingled uneasily inside. With Inuyasha choosing the dead miko over her, her school and... She had enough on her plate to contend with. She glanced on the motionless Yasunoru and sighed. The sooner she gets back home the better.
But then a disturbing thought occurred in her mind. 'And then?' 'Then what?' What will going back home change? She will be able to pretend that her life is perfect, but she will have to deal with the pain inside, that will probably never subside...
The lamps and torches had all been lit by the time Kagome fell asleep. Night had fallen and a chill, spiraling breeze was giving the guards on duty a hard time keeping warm.
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It was approaching midnight yet, tired as he was, Sesshoumaru couldn't sleep. He was pacing back and forth, his head spinning with question after unanswered question. 'Why is Orito taking so long to come back from that simple errand? What is the Dragon Hime planning? Why wont those memories leave me alone?' he rubbed his throbbing temples. 'Why is Jacken disappearing all the time?' He looked out of the window, outside, small clouds drifted across the waning moon...
He twisted on his heels and marched back to his bed. 'And there is this Miko to crown my burdens with a crown of thorns. Why does she make me feel so weird?'
He lay down on the cool, silk blankets, his stoic form becoming motionless, save the slow rising and falling of his broad chest. He relaxed his body, enjoying the coolness of the bed, but his mind refused to give him the so much desired rest, instead it kept adding more and more of needless thoughts to his already over flowing brain.
Unable to suppress it any longer, he got up, put on his robe and walked out into the darkness of the corridor. 'He must have had some of it recorded somewhere...' He thought as he made his way through the winding corridors to his fathers' study, which now became his, and was piled with letters, attires and treaties.
Finally reaching it, growling at the sleeping guard in front of it, he opened the door, and deliberately stepping on the guards' hand went in, closing the door behind him.
'Where are the treaties and the records?' He was digging through the numerous papers and scrolls, darkened with the years, he pulled one out, running over it and his eyes widened.
The scroll fell from his pale, striped hand.
It was the record of his father marrying his mother.
Why, of all the papers, he had to come across this one?
What did he do wrong so the past memories came back to haunt him?
After so many years of blocking it all out...
Forgetting it....
He picked up the parchment; he could feel the years of hatred of his father pounding in his veins- He first left his wife alone and let her die,
a muscle in his jaw twitched,
he then brought in that human woman, already pregnant with his second child-
his knuckles crackled,
when the hanyou was born, he ended up being looked after by the nasty toad,
his father was always with the human wench, and their little offspring....
A low growl rumbled in his massive chest as the parchment hissed and a few green drops fell to the floor.
He narrowed his eyes and started digging through the papers once again.
Here it was. He took the parchment and walked over to the low table; sitting down behind it, he unrolled it and began reading. So this is what has been going on. The Dragons wanted his fathers land, but he showed them that he doesn't agree by sending their messengers head back... "The fool." He snarled. Yes, the dragons weren't numerous back then, but now their number increased by dangerous numbers, and it was too late to try and sign some treaties.
The Dragons wanted revenge. A head. His.
He tossed the scroll away. He has to get ready for an attack, incase it will be unexpected- but he really has to mobilize an army. 'I have my assassins, my every individual soldier is as good as an army, they have most achieved the military perfection. Their strategy is perfect.' He thought, looking at the ornate design on the low table. 'But will that be enough?' For the second time in his life, Sesshoumaru-sama had to admit that he was scared. The dragons know not the word called 'Mercy'. That was all right. Neither did he.
The Dragons never planned or schemed. They attacked. They killed. They destroyed everything in their path once they were given their freedom.
They burnt everything down to the ground, until there was nothing left but a scorched plain...
That wasn't alright.
They used fire. And with fire around, Sesshoumaru wasn't the Sesshoumaru everyone knew and feared.
He knew they wouldn't want a battle. They want a massacre, and since they always got their way, it was no way that they will simply give in and fight fairly this time. With fire around, it will be simply a massacre, because the infamous, terrifyingly omniscient Sesshoumaru will lose himself as soon as he will come in touch with their fire, at the most. His soldiers, seeing that the unbeatable Sesshoumaru is scared, will simply allow them selves to be turned into a bloody mess.
One thing was certain. Once the war is over, there will be no one, perhaps save Rin, or the toad to mourn him. That is, if they survive. Of which he was certain, wouldn't happen...
This war means death. His. And those around him.
Not like he objected strongly. He was only about fifteen, when he first came across the Dragons, when he first learned that it was easy to die. And let others.
It was staying alive that was much harder. And he chose the latter on many occasions, not because he had a grand love for life, but because it was living that was harder. And keeping those around his alive...
He looked into Deaths bottomless, empty eyes so often, he could call her his best friend. He mustn't lose this war and become her prisoner.
The Lord of western lands was determined to live.
And defeat the Dragon Hime, who was most likely planning the same. If she was planning anything at all.
Sesshoumaru went back to the ancient, made of heavy, red wood chest and continued looking through the ancient records of past wars, not noticing it was already morning...
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Inuyasha was sitting up on his tree, watching the blood red sun slowly rise over the distant, misty mountains. His hair and the white shirt were covered in little pearls of dew, chilling him to the bone, and bringing up some unpleasant memories. Although Naraku was defeated, and Shikon no Tama was complete- his life still seemed empty...
Kikyous head was resting peacefully on his chest, her form was motionless, not even a muscle moved. She looked like she was... Dead. Inuyasha adjusted his fire rat robe so it covered her fragile form. He sighed deeply, wishing she was breathing, or mumbling in her sleep. Or there was at least one hair out of place so he could adjust it.
But she was perfect.
He suppressed a deep, shuddering sigh and looked away unto the now orange sun, and wondered where Kagome was. Probably at home, studying for her... Tests. Kikyou was right. He couldn't choose them both. And he chose Kikyou for two reasons, or more than that. But he was sure of two of them. Kikyou had nowhere to go. Kagome had to return to her time. Kagome was new here, happy and innocent, with her life ahead of her. Kikyou was there because of him. The only reason she remained walking the face of this world she hated so much, was him. She had no past. And no future.
He kissed Kikyous cold forehead, wishing it was warm and smelled of the sun and fruits... Instead of a breeze, a slight and gentle one, but coming from the graveyard, and chilling to the very marrow of the bone...
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Kagome slipped into a warm, caramel dream.
She was dancing in a huge hall, with polished wooden floor and semitransparent paper walls, The sun was shining through them, not dark and not too bright. Just enough to make Kagome smile and continue her dance, she finally fell down, exhausted on a mattress, what it seemed in slow motion. Breathless, she laughed and laughed, feeling a weird happiness inside her, such as she has never felt, or probably ever will in her life.
It was a happy dream.
Until the whispering began, that is. "Very cozy, very nice," it hissed. "But this is not where you belong, is it?" In her dream, Kagome looked around. A gaunt, cloaked figure was slinking off through a wall. As it did so, it scratched a long sharp fingernail over the smooth, polished surface. Kagome stepped tentatively forwards. She stared at the scratch in the wood: it was weeping like an open wound. Suddenly the whispering returned directly in her ear.
"I'm still here," it said. "I'm always here."
Kagome spun around, she saw no one. "You silly little fool. If you want to discover your destiny, you must follow me." Kagome stared in horror as a bony hand with long talons emerged from the folds of the cloak, reached up and clasped the hood. It was about to reveal its face. Kagome tried to run away, but she couldn't move. All at once, the creature cackled with hideous laughter and let its hand drop by its side. "You shall know me soon enough," it hissed, and leaned towards her conspiratorially.
Kagomes heart pounded furiously. She felt the warmth of the creatures' breath against her ear, and smelt a sumptuous mistiness that seeped from its hooded cloak.
"Kagome-sama!"
The sudden cry exploded inside Kagomes' head. She shouted out in fear, opened her eyes and looked around her in confusion. It was light and she was in bed. She looked at Yasunorus' worried face and everything came back to her.
"Is everything ok? Do you want something?" She asked. Yasunoru watched her closely. "Kagome-sama. Are you alright?" he asked, placing a clawed hand on her forehead and shaking his head. "Oh, I'm fine, Yasunoru-kun. Just a bad dream." Yasunoru got up, walking to the door. "You know, Kagome-sama. Everything has a meaning. Even such simple things like dreams all carry a meaning within them." He said earnestly, opening the door. "Where are you going?" She asked weakly, stretching her arms in the process. Yasunoru smiled at her sleepy look and stepped outside, almost closing the door, "I'll go get some tea for you, Kagome-sama." And with that he left.
Kagome felt miserable. Not only she burdened so many people with her presence, she turned a soldier into a lady in waiting. And judging by the mark he had, he was a youkai of noble birth. She got up and walked over to the door that led to the balcony. She pulled it open, yawning – and froze in mid yawn.
Beneath her lay a magnificent garden of blossoming sakura, giant maple trees, roses, evergreen trees and bushes, little tea houses and springs swarming with koi.
She went out onto the balcony with faltering steps, gaping at the beauty and peace the garden radiated, when Yasunoru came in, carrying a tray, with small teacups and something in a bowl that strangely resembled dried caterpillars.
Kagome ran up to him, blushing and took the tray from the startled youkai, placing it upon the small table she spotted earlier out on the balcony. Yasunoru followed her, unsure of how he should interpret the girls strange behavior. She settled down on the wooden floor, and poured the tea into two small cups, pushing one of them towards Yasunoru, gesturing for him to sit down. "Have some too, I'm so sorry I turned you into a nanny of some sort!" 'you had to say that. Didn't you ...' he thought, looking at the girl as if she had just produced a bouquet of Rins favorite flowers from her ear.
"Sit down! I can't just relax while you are standing there," Obeying the girl out of pure instincts, he sat himself down, and sipped at the tea, not taking his eyes off the smiling Miko. "So when am I going to start attending to my duties?" She asked cheerfully. Yasunoru lifted an eyebrow. "What duties, Kagome-sama?" He asked, thinking, 'Perhaps the fever is too high...' "Well, looking after Rin of course!" She cried, putting down her cup clumsily, spilling a little in the process. "Sesshoumaru took me with him because Rin said she wanted me as her new caretaker! Didn't he tell you anything?" Yasunoru put his cup down, "Sesshoumaru-sama only instructed us to treat you like a high ranking guest and see to all your needs. And he told us to make sure you stay away from Rin-sama until you are better."
"Oh..." She said. 'OH...'
"I was wondering..." She finally dared to spill what was on her mind. "its just that.." "Yes? Kagome-sama." "My things are left with my... Friends. And I need them." Yasunoru smiled. "Lord Sesshoumaru has already sent someone to fetch them for you."
Kagome wanted to believe she was dreaming...
Kagome got up, feeling slightly nauseous from her sickness, picked up the tray and walked towards the door, Yasunoru jumped up and ran towards her.
"Kagome-sama! You shouldn't! You are still weak." He cried, causing her to swing around in surprise and slip on the polished floor, she dropped the tray and crashed into Yasunoru, but since she barely reached his collarbones, she merely bounced off his chest, "Eeek!" she grabbed onto his robe and caused him to fall on top of her...
At the same time the door slid open.. Revealing a very... Angry Sesshoumaru, Taiyoukai of the West.
Yasunoru froze in horror. He's never seen his master so angry... Regaining his self-control he cleared his throat, getting Kagomes attention.
"Yasunoru. What... are you doing to my guest?" He asked, ice lacing every word.
Yasunoru jumped to his feet, helping up the dazed Miko.
"Nothing, my Lord. It was merely a clumsy accident!" He said hurriedly, collecting the broken china and putting it on the tray.
"Indeed."
Sesshoumaru shifted his death glare to Kagome, who wished for instant death.
Getting into an awkward situation with Sesshoumarus' guard was one thing.
Getting into an awkward situation with Sesshoumarus' guard in front of Sesshoumaru was another...
"W...Kagome. I brought your... Things." He said coldly, placing her backpack on the floor.
"T-Thank you...Sesshoumaru..." But the answer to her gratitude was a 'swish' and a 'click' as the door closed behind the Taiyoukai. And the clatter of broken china as Yasunoru continued collecting it and putting it on the tray. Having finally finished his task, he left silently, without so much as a glance at her.
Tears welled up in her eyes, now, because of her clumsiness, Yasunoru is mad at her and Sesshoumaru thinks Kami knows what... A single tear ran down her cheek as she clutched onto Shikon no Tama, which was still hanging around her neck, and looked at her bag...
When will she actually learn to pick her accidents a bit more carefully?..
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Phew! I guess toothache is kinda useful... Look at this long chapter! I mean... Woah... Can't believe I actually spent so long occupied with one activity... And that was lazy 'ole me...
So here's the second chapter of 'Wakarimasen' ... To be honest, I have no idea how long it's going to be, I love long chapters, so I'll try to make mine long, too...
Oh, and please tell me what you think of the chapter!
NB-there are pictures of Yasunoru and Haoko in Mediaminer. Go check out.
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Thank you my dear Reviewers! 'Ye are the salt of the earth!' As sayeth the Black Book. (Or brown. It comes in different colors. Sometimes has a cross in front.)
Regina Lucifer: I'm very glad you like it!
*sigh * If only werld was filled with nice people like you!
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Aznpals: Sheesh... * blushes furiously * thanks... This Kamashii Taihen Sama is not worthy of such high praise...
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Bad Girl 14: * Scratches head * 'well, Kagome just caught a little cold.
And perhaps a little depression, and maybe some STDs... (Just kidding on
the last part..)
* gets bashed on the poor head by gf. * "Pervert!" *rubs head * "Sigh.. My gfs' favorite part is when Sango bashes poor Miroku on the head with that horrible Hiraikotsu thingy... I'm so glad she doesn't have one!" Shippou will appear soon, don't worry. I like the little dude too much to leave him out of action! Yes, Rin is So Kawai! * sigh *
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Waizu Yoru Ame Otome : "Thanks! The title's cool innit? ^_^' See? I tried hard to please you, do you like my paragraphing now? Don't tell me they are too small though... * death glare * Your name's not that bad either...
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Gizmo369: Thanks! Really appreciate your effort to review! I know how hard it is... Must... click... button... * drops dead * Thanks so much!
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Sanosuke Hidane: Yep. Vanilla Ice Cream. Though I feel kinda stupid, describing guys so soppily. One might think I'm a bit of a g... Ah, well, HUGE thanks for Liking, and Reviewing!