Drifting Dangers
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Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha!
lostdreams: Okay, I have pirates on the brain, can you guess what movie I just saw?? LOL! Anyway this fic is about pirates (sort of) but it will not follow the Pirates of the Caribbean theme. I will not have walking skeletons and what not. In fact, everyone's a human in this fic, which is a first for me (What can I say? I love leaving Inuyasha a demon..^_^) Anyways on with the fic.
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Chapter 1
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The sea gently lapped the side of the fading red hull. It was a clear day, not a cloud marred the intense blue sky. A Mid-April wind smoothly whipped the worn sails of the merchant vessel. An old but noble ship, the 'Hime' was truly a work of art. The great sweeping hull, once a vibrant red was now faded to a dusty pink, though it still repelled water like the day it was made. Its high straight masts reigned majestically over the scarred but clean deck. Ornate wooden railings adjourned the edges and the stairs. A four-story ship, enormous for it's time had the main deck above the luxurious cabins and fancy dining room. Just below were the sailor berths and kitchens and that sat on top of the cargo hold.
The 'Hime' had been on a six-month voyage and now, laden with the goods it had bartered along the way, it was finally headed home. Captain Yoshiro looked proudly over his vessel. He had been the 'Hime's' captain for well over fifteen years. The boat had become a part of him. Walking to the edge of the bridge he looked over the expanse of his ship. His dark eyes hung on one particular sight far from his own position.
A young woman with long black hair stood on the bow of the ship, gazing out at the ocean. Captain Yoshiro couldn't help stare at the raven-haired beauty. She was the younger of the two Higurashi daughters, only seventeen. The girls were traveling back to Japan from their school in England. Lord Higurashi was a prominent politician and advisor for the emperor and only the best was allowed for the two girls. Kikyo, who was three years Kagome's senior, was in the cabin area, content to be waited on and pampered. Kagome however was scarcely found below deck. She was always gazing at the sea. Smiling, Yoshiro checked his coordinates and walked over to talk to the young woman.
"Hello my dear. I trust you are still enjoying yourself?" he asked primly as he approached. Kagome turned in a rush, surprised by the captain's appearance, but recovered quickly.
"Oh yes sir I am. This has been a most enjoyable trip," Kagome announced happily. Her eyes were bright and the same color as the sky on a stormy day. Her face was flushed from the wind caused by the moving vessel. Her hair was disheveled and tendrils were blowing about her face. If not for her pristine dress one would almost fail to know that Kagome was indeed a lady. She took on the appearance of a commoner, though not in a bad way. It was clear she took in the simpler things of life and money held little ground with her.
"I am glad to hear it. As captain of this ship I like to know that my guests are comfortable," the captain replied with a smile. "If there is anything you need ask anyone on the crew. We're here to ensure the comfort of you and Lady Kikyo's trip."
"Thanks you for your kind generosity, but as of now I am quite content," Kagome answered with a small bow. "It is such a lovely ship that I have found quite a good time in just exploring it." The captain smiled broadly.
"Yes my lady. She is a beauty isn't she, the 'Hime'. I have captained her now for some fifteen years, and I have loved every minute of it." Turning thoughtfully he followed the path Kagome's earlier gaze had taken. "I adore the sea. There is never a place where one can feel so free. Out here there are no walls, no streets, and no busy racket. Only you, the sky, and the wide, wide ocean." He let out a heavy sigh and glanced back at the raven- haired woman. She too had returned her gaze to the sea, a far off look in her eyes.
"I must agree. The sea is such a marvelous place.." Kagome trailed off, clearly thinking of things other than those on this boat.
"It is a shame that Kikyo doesn't not hold the same sentiments as you. Perhaps then she would have a better time," the captain mused tentatively, gauging Kagome's reaction. The girl only scoffed.
"Kikyo has never been one for nature. She likes the finer things in life. She finds me quite crude in comparison," Kagome answered, a hint of bitterness in her voice. The captain merely nodded.
"Well my dear, I'll take my leave of you. Much to do, much to do." The captain gave Kagome a curt bow and returned to his wheel. Kagome smiled as he left, but it faltered as she returned her gaze to the ocean.
[If only we could sail forever and never return to Japan.] she thought wistfully. [I could be free. If only..]
-@--@-
"Our messengers have confirmed that the Higurashi daughters are indeed aboard the Hime captain," a young ruffian announced. A hard man turned to face the messenger, a wicked grin erupting on his cruel face. Long dirty tendrils of black hair hung amid the man's visage, shielding most of his emotions from the world.
"Good good. How far are we from Captain Yoshiro's precious vessel." The captain's voice sounded as seedy as his appearance.
"At top speed, we should over take them in about three days," the scalawag replied, looking rather pleased with his accurate information. The captain retained his chilling smile.
"Good, stay on course and tell the mates to keep us in the wind."
"Aye Captain Naraku sir." The mate gave a curt bow and left the captain to his thoughts.
"Excellent," he chuckled to himself. "Those two simpering daughters are just what I need as leverage to get the location of the Shikon Jewel. Lord Higurashi will surely divulge the spot in exchange for the lives of his precious little girls." Naraku looked in a faded and dirty mirror. His hideous reflection stared back at him. "Not to mention that the Higurashi girls are said to be great beauties. Maybe I'll only give one back.." Naraku's evil laugh sounded through his cabin, sending chills down the spine of anyone who could hear him.
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"Look at his clothes."
"He's not from around here."
"Where did he come from?"
"Look at his hair."
A tall black haired man ignored the whispers and ignorant chatter around him. He was here on business; nothing else would bring him to the capital.
"Did you see his eyes?"
"He couldn't be a.."
"Do you think he's a.."
"I'll bet he's a pirate."
The man couldn't help but smirk at that last comment. Their skepticism wasn't surprising. He had waist length black hair that had seen cleaner days. His outfit consisted of a white cotton shirt, a black leather vest, black breeches and tall black buckle boots. He had a long sword strapped to his right hip and a pistol on the other. Other various knickknacks and jewelry adjourned him, giving him a roguish appearance. A red bandana was tied about his head, completing the strange ensemble.
"Inuyasha sir, are you sure Toutousai is still here? " a bent old man questioned, hobbling along after the rogue.
"I can see the old cod moving anywhere else. He's too damn stubborn," Inuyasha commented dryly, heading down a rather shady alley. The elderly gentleman hurried to keep up. Inuyasha finally came to a stop in front of a shabby door. A worn blacksmith's sign hung above it, the letters no longer legible. Knocking loudly and impatiently Inuyasha waited for a response. When he got none, he invited himself in, Myouga, the elderly gent, following closely.
"I don't think he's here sir," Myouga trembled lightly. The shop looked as though it hadn't been used in centuries. The tools were covered with ash and rust. Dust was thick everywhere. "From the looks of thing sir, I don't think he's been here for a while," Myouga commented examining the cobwebs that existed thickly in every nook and cranny.
"He's here," Inuyasha said, hands on his hips. "Toutousai get out here. It's Taisho's son, Inuyasha," the man called watching for any sign of life. At the introduction of Inuyasha's name a very weathered head stuck itself out of a cellar door.
"Inuyasha?" Slowly an ancient looking man emerged from the floor. He was bald, nearly toothless, and wrinkled to the core. Toutousai looked as old as time itself.
"There you are. Who the hell are you hiding from?" Inuyasha asked gruffly. Myouga looked at the other elderly man expectantly.
"I'm not hiding," Toutousai said indignantly. "I'm just making my presence unknown to those who may request my services." Inuyasha rolled his eyes.
"I'm assuming then there was a reason for this," Inuyasha reasoned, pulling out a scroll and tossing it at the old man. Catching it deftly, Toutousai unrolled the scroll and examined it carefully. Slowly a smile spread across his wrinkled façade. Re-rolling the scroll, he handed it back to Inuyasha.
"I see you got my note," he said with a chuckle.
"Yea, why else would I come back to this hell hole?" Inuyasha asked sardonically. Toutousai shook his head in an almost regretful manner.
"Yes, I suppose I don't blame you," the old man acknowledged, his eyes focusing on the young man's sword. "I see you still have the Tetsusaiga. How is it? Can I see?" Toutousai snatched the blade before Inuyasha could answer. Clucking his tongue disapprovingly, he examined the blade.
"I make this thing special for you and you go and knick it all up. Honestly Inuyasha, have you ever taken care of this sword?" Toutousai chided moving over to the fireplace. "As long as you're here I'm going to sharpen it up and do a little maintenance." The old man sat down and began working with the Tetsusaiga
"Speaking of why we're here..is there a reason you sent me a map and a note to see you as soon as possible? Or did you just want to take care of my sword?" Inuyasha asked impatiently. This place held to many memories for him and staying there only made it worse.
"Relax son, my news is worth your wait," the old blacksmith soothed. "I would have told you in a note, but I was afraid that it would fall into the wrong hands." Toutousai never looked up from his maintenance. Inuyasha said nothing, but merely glanced at Myouga, who shrugged in return. "I know who killed your father," Toutousai said finally without a hint of emotion. "And the map is where his, for lack of better word, hideout is rumored to be. No granted the location is just a rumor, but I know for a fact that it was he that brought down your father's ship." Toutousai finally looked up at Inuyasha, his expression blank. Inuyasha was in a state of shock. For nearly eight years the now 22 year old man had been searching for clues as to why his father's ship sank coming up with absolutely nothing, and now this old geezer suddenly knew everything.
"How long have you known?" Inuyasha asked coolly, trying to keep his jumble of emotions in check.
"Only a short while my boy. I wanted to be sure of my information before I told you. I wouldn't want you gallivanting off after this one if I wasn't dead sure," Toutousai tried to explain, but Inuyasha was growing impatient.
"Who the hell was it?" he growled, clenching his fists. "Tell me now."
"A pirate, the name's Naraku. He's a bad one Inuyasha, very bad. Sails a ship call the 'Onigumo'." Inuyasha froze, that name sounded so familiar.
[Where have I heard the name 'Onigumo'?] Inuyasha racked his brain, but could come up with nothing other than that it was said in passing, not a topic of conversation. Shaking his head, he turned his violet eyes on to the old man.
"And you say this map will lead me to him?" Inuyasha asked, holding out the carefully drawn illustration. Toutousai took a deep breath, Inuyasha hadn't heard a thing past 'Naraku killed your father'.
"Will you listen to me? This won't be a seek and destroy sort of thing Inuyasha. Naraku is a masterful swordsman and a clever sailor. Countless fleets have gone after him and came back with nothing. Finding him won't be easy. First of all you'll need a fast ship," Toutousai counted off on his fingers. "Secondly you'll need a strong and able crew. No cowards. Thirdly, you'll need to have something that he wants, otherwise he'll avoid you like the plague and finding him will be well nigh impossible." Toutousai watched for Inuyasha's reaction to his news. For a moment the boy seemed to contemplate his words, but then looked back at him with a blank stare.
"So does the map lead me to him or not?" Inuyasha pressed impatiently.
"Inuyasha sir, Toutousai is trying to warn you of the dangers of going after one like Naraku," Myouga interrupted. Inuyasha silenced him with a glare.
"I know what he's saying, but that doesn't change what I have to do. To avenge my father I have to destroy Naraku, it's as simple as that," the young man said matter-of-factly. Neither Myouga or Toutousai decided to argue with him further.
"Whatever you say, but here, you'll be needing this." Toutousai handed back the Tetsusaiga. "I've sharpened it for you."
"Thanks," Inuyasha said gruffly, as though the word were a little foreign to him. "Let's go Myouga. We need a crew," Inuyasha said, hauling off with the little man in tow.
"But Inuyasha, surely you don't need me to come. I can stay here and take care of your property where it is safe..er..so you're things will be safe," he finished lamely.
"I don't want to hear it Myouga, you're coming and that's that. Let's go. I need to find Miroku.."
-@--@-
"I don't know why you spend all your time out on that lousy ship deck. It does nothing for your hair," Kikyo grumbled as she brushed through Kagome's windblown tangles. "It's not like there is anything special up there anyway," the elder girl continued giving Kagome's head and especially hard yank. Kagome winced, but bit her tongue. She knew better than to complain in front of Kikyo. Her sister would call her unrefined and tell her that she needed to act like more of a lady.
"You need to start acting more like a lady. Lord Koga will not appreciate a primitive wife," Kikyo acknowledge, speaking of Kagome's betrothed. Kagome couldn't keep her displeasure to herself and let out a soft groan of disgust. "Kagome stop that," Kikyo admonished, pulling hard on the brush. "He did plead very eloquently for your hand in marriage. I think he will make a good husband for you."
"He's so..so..I don't know a nice way to put it but the opposite of smart," Kagome whined, trying not to concentrate on the vicious brush strokes. "Besides the only reason you're pushing for him so much is because of his cousin is Lord Hojo, who has been pleading for your hand," she muttered quietly.
"Hojo has nothing to do with this. Kagome you should consider yourself lucky. You can marry any suitor that comes to call. Me, I have to marry someone that will be good for daddy's name, not so frivolously as you," Kikyo explained. Kagome gritted her teeth and said nothing. Personally she didn't think that anything as serious and binding as marriage could be seen as frivolous, but there was no use trying to explain that to Kikyo.
"You need to stay out of the sun so much, it's ruining your complexion," Kikyo chided, setting the brush down and examining Kagome's face. "What do you do out there all day anyway?"
"Watch out for pirates," Kagome said sardonically, trying to pull her face away from Kikyo. Her sister's face paled slightly as she didn't pick up on Kagome's sarcasm.
"Pirates? There are no such thing.." Kikyo said pompously backing away from her sister. Even thought Kikyo spoke with conviction there was a hint of uncertainty and almost worry in her voice. Kagome weeded it out instantly and decided it was time for a little teasing.
"Oh yes there are. The captain was telling me all about them," Kagome said seriously, enjoying watching Kikyo's eyes grow wide.
"Why would you ask about such a thing?" Kikyo demanded indignantly. She didn't quite believe Kagome yet, but was well on her way. Kagome was having a hard time keeping a straight face.
"Because one can never be too prepared, and I figured it was valuable information. Now if a pirate attacks, I'm ready," Kagome said confidently, biting the insides of her cheeks to keep from laughing. Kikyo's sheltered life left her about as gullible as they come.
"Why? What do I do? Can you tell me?" Kikyo was gone, hook, line, and sinker. Her eyes had a glassy fearful look. Kagome almost felt sorry for her.
"Well, I suppose I should tell you, being as you're my sister and all," Kagome said dramatically, looking around as if she were worried someone was listening. "But you can't tell anyone else." Kikyo nodded rapidly, hanging on Kagome's every word. Man, she was going to be pissed.
"I promise! Just please tell me!" she hissed softly.
"Well okay. If we're attacked by pirates just throw yourself overboard. That way you'll at least have a fifty-fifty chance of surviving." Miraculously Kagome got this out with a straight face. Kikyo's jaw dropped.
"How do you figure?" she asked with narrowed eyes. She was clearly becoming suspicious of Kagome's fabrication.
"Easy. If there are survivors after the attack, they'll rescue you before you drown," Kagome said logically. Kikyo's expression was priceless, so much so that Kagome couldn't keep a straight face a moment longer. Starting out softly Kagome was soon laughing so hard she had tears streaming down her cheeks. Kikyo's fearful inquisition quickly changed to anger as she realized she had been duped.
"How dare you!" she seethed. "Frightening me like that! So childish!" Kagome only laughed harder.
"Wow, you should have seen the look on your face, it was priceless. Absolutely priceless." Kagome had to sit down to control her laughter.
"Oh you..you..brat!" Kikyo spluttered angrily, getting up and marching to her own quarters, leaving Kagome to calm herself down.
"Oh, that was good," Kagome continued to giggle to herself. There weren't really such things as pirates anymore nowadays. Any slightly educated person knew that. Not really tired, Kagome pulled on her robe and headed topside. The moon was nothing more than a sliver so the stars were very visible. Kagome lost her breath at the natural beauty.
"My lady?" a night watchmen approached Kagome. "What are you doing out here so late?" he asked politely. Kagome turned to him, her eyes still large with awe.
"I had no idea the stars were so pretty," she said softly, looking back up again. "I hope the weather stays this nice through the entire journey." The sailor looked a little confused by her ramblings, but nodded in agreement.
"Aye ma'am. This is perfect sailing weather. So long as the clouds stay back and the pirates keep at bay, I'd expect the entire trip to remain this serene." Kagome was knocked out of her musings by the mate's words.
"Pi-pirates?" she asked softly, her intense gray eyes trained on the sailor.
"Oh forgive me ma'am, I meant not to frighten you. There hasn't been a pirate attack in years. You don't have anything to fret," he assured her quickly. Kagome stood a little surprised for another moment, but nodded with a forced smile.
"Yes of course. I suppose it just surprises me that pirates still exist. I never would have thought." Kagome said slowly, though she couldn't deny that the thought thrilled her a little. There was something about danger that she enjoyed, it was such a sharp contrast to her safe and sheltered life.
"Well, as I said, there hasn't been any pirate activity for a good year now," the mate said, thinking back. "In fact I think the only real 'pirate' ship left was the 'Onigumo' but no one has seen it in years.
"How exciting," Kagome said earnestly. The mate clearly thought Kagome was crazy as he nodded, eyes wide, backing slowly away.
"Um right miss, though if I may, I must state that I would be perfectly happy not meet any such pirates that were found on the 'Onigumo'. Not a very civil bunch if you know what I mean." The mate gave Kagome a short bow and returned to his post. Kagome, head now full of pirate stories, wandered to the edge of the railing.
"Well I think it would be interesting," Kagome muttered to herself. There were tons of stories that depicted pirates as being just a bunch of fun- loving outlaws, sort of like Robin Hood in the ocean. Sighing Kagome decided to turn in. She was being naïve and was somewhat aware of it. Of course pirates were no better than common criminals, and therefore prone to be just as dangerous. It's just pirate sounded so much more glamorous than criminal.
"Awww, who really cares anyway. There haven't been pirates around for years, so what's the point of dwelling on it," she told herself harshly. Blowing out her candle, Kagome rolled over and succumbed to her dreams.
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lostdreams: Okay, this is the part where you tell me what you think. Ready? Go! ^_^ (Please and Thank you!)
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Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha!
lostdreams: Okay, I have pirates on the brain, can you guess what movie I just saw?? LOL! Anyway this fic is about pirates (sort of) but it will not follow the Pirates of the Caribbean theme. I will not have walking skeletons and what not. In fact, everyone's a human in this fic, which is a first for me (What can I say? I love leaving Inuyasha a demon..^_^) Anyways on with the fic.
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Chapter 1
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The sea gently lapped the side of the fading red hull. It was a clear day, not a cloud marred the intense blue sky. A Mid-April wind smoothly whipped the worn sails of the merchant vessel. An old but noble ship, the 'Hime' was truly a work of art. The great sweeping hull, once a vibrant red was now faded to a dusty pink, though it still repelled water like the day it was made. Its high straight masts reigned majestically over the scarred but clean deck. Ornate wooden railings adjourned the edges and the stairs. A four-story ship, enormous for it's time had the main deck above the luxurious cabins and fancy dining room. Just below were the sailor berths and kitchens and that sat on top of the cargo hold.
The 'Hime' had been on a six-month voyage and now, laden with the goods it had bartered along the way, it was finally headed home. Captain Yoshiro looked proudly over his vessel. He had been the 'Hime's' captain for well over fifteen years. The boat had become a part of him. Walking to the edge of the bridge he looked over the expanse of his ship. His dark eyes hung on one particular sight far from his own position.
A young woman with long black hair stood on the bow of the ship, gazing out at the ocean. Captain Yoshiro couldn't help stare at the raven-haired beauty. She was the younger of the two Higurashi daughters, only seventeen. The girls were traveling back to Japan from their school in England. Lord Higurashi was a prominent politician and advisor for the emperor and only the best was allowed for the two girls. Kikyo, who was three years Kagome's senior, was in the cabin area, content to be waited on and pampered. Kagome however was scarcely found below deck. She was always gazing at the sea. Smiling, Yoshiro checked his coordinates and walked over to talk to the young woman.
"Hello my dear. I trust you are still enjoying yourself?" he asked primly as he approached. Kagome turned in a rush, surprised by the captain's appearance, but recovered quickly.
"Oh yes sir I am. This has been a most enjoyable trip," Kagome announced happily. Her eyes were bright and the same color as the sky on a stormy day. Her face was flushed from the wind caused by the moving vessel. Her hair was disheveled and tendrils were blowing about her face. If not for her pristine dress one would almost fail to know that Kagome was indeed a lady. She took on the appearance of a commoner, though not in a bad way. It was clear she took in the simpler things of life and money held little ground with her.
"I am glad to hear it. As captain of this ship I like to know that my guests are comfortable," the captain replied with a smile. "If there is anything you need ask anyone on the crew. We're here to ensure the comfort of you and Lady Kikyo's trip."
"Thanks you for your kind generosity, but as of now I am quite content," Kagome answered with a small bow. "It is such a lovely ship that I have found quite a good time in just exploring it." The captain smiled broadly.
"Yes my lady. She is a beauty isn't she, the 'Hime'. I have captained her now for some fifteen years, and I have loved every minute of it." Turning thoughtfully he followed the path Kagome's earlier gaze had taken. "I adore the sea. There is never a place where one can feel so free. Out here there are no walls, no streets, and no busy racket. Only you, the sky, and the wide, wide ocean." He let out a heavy sigh and glanced back at the raven- haired woman. She too had returned her gaze to the sea, a far off look in her eyes.
"I must agree. The sea is such a marvelous place.." Kagome trailed off, clearly thinking of things other than those on this boat.
"It is a shame that Kikyo doesn't not hold the same sentiments as you. Perhaps then she would have a better time," the captain mused tentatively, gauging Kagome's reaction. The girl only scoffed.
"Kikyo has never been one for nature. She likes the finer things in life. She finds me quite crude in comparison," Kagome answered, a hint of bitterness in her voice. The captain merely nodded.
"Well my dear, I'll take my leave of you. Much to do, much to do." The captain gave Kagome a curt bow and returned to his wheel. Kagome smiled as he left, but it faltered as she returned her gaze to the ocean.
[If only we could sail forever and never return to Japan.] she thought wistfully. [I could be free. If only..]
-@--@-
"Our messengers have confirmed that the Higurashi daughters are indeed aboard the Hime captain," a young ruffian announced. A hard man turned to face the messenger, a wicked grin erupting on his cruel face. Long dirty tendrils of black hair hung amid the man's visage, shielding most of his emotions from the world.
"Good good. How far are we from Captain Yoshiro's precious vessel." The captain's voice sounded as seedy as his appearance.
"At top speed, we should over take them in about three days," the scalawag replied, looking rather pleased with his accurate information. The captain retained his chilling smile.
"Good, stay on course and tell the mates to keep us in the wind."
"Aye Captain Naraku sir." The mate gave a curt bow and left the captain to his thoughts.
"Excellent," he chuckled to himself. "Those two simpering daughters are just what I need as leverage to get the location of the Shikon Jewel. Lord Higurashi will surely divulge the spot in exchange for the lives of his precious little girls." Naraku looked in a faded and dirty mirror. His hideous reflection stared back at him. "Not to mention that the Higurashi girls are said to be great beauties. Maybe I'll only give one back.." Naraku's evil laugh sounded through his cabin, sending chills down the spine of anyone who could hear him.
-@--@-
"Look at his clothes."
"He's not from around here."
"Where did he come from?"
"Look at his hair."
A tall black haired man ignored the whispers and ignorant chatter around him. He was here on business; nothing else would bring him to the capital.
"Did you see his eyes?"
"He couldn't be a.."
"Do you think he's a.."
"I'll bet he's a pirate."
The man couldn't help but smirk at that last comment. Their skepticism wasn't surprising. He had waist length black hair that had seen cleaner days. His outfit consisted of a white cotton shirt, a black leather vest, black breeches and tall black buckle boots. He had a long sword strapped to his right hip and a pistol on the other. Other various knickknacks and jewelry adjourned him, giving him a roguish appearance. A red bandana was tied about his head, completing the strange ensemble.
"Inuyasha sir, are you sure Toutousai is still here? " a bent old man questioned, hobbling along after the rogue.
"I can see the old cod moving anywhere else. He's too damn stubborn," Inuyasha commented dryly, heading down a rather shady alley. The elderly gentleman hurried to keep up. Inuyasha finally came to a stop in front of a shabby door. A worn blacksmith's sign hung above it, the letters no longer legible. Knocking loudly and impatiently Inuyasha waited for a response. When he got none, he invited himself in, Myouga, the elderly gent, following closely.
"I don't think he's here sir," Myouga trembled lightly. The shop looked as though it hadn't been used in centuries. The tools were covered with ash and rust. Dust was thick everywhere. "From the looks of thing sir, I don't think he's been here for a while," Myouga commented examining the cobwebs that existed thickly in every nook and cranny.
"He's here," Inuyasha said, hands on his hips. "Toutousai get out here. It's Taisho's son, Inuyasha," the man called watching for any sign of life. At the introduction of Inuyasha's name a very weathered head stuck itself out of a cellar door.
"Inuyasha?" Slowly an ancient looking man emerged from the floor. He was bald, nearly toothless, and wrinkled to the core. Toutousai looked as old as time itself.
"There you are. Who the hell are you hiding from?" Inuyasha asked gruffly. Myouga looked at the other elderly man expectantly.
"I'm not hiding," Toutousai said indignantly. "I'm just making my presence unknown to those who may request my services." Inuyasha rolled his eyes.
"I'm assuming then there was a reason for this," Inuyasha reasoned, pulling out a scroll and tossing it at the old man. Catching it deftly, Toutousai unrolled the scroll and examined it carefully. Slowly a smile spread across his wrinkled façade. Re-rolling the scroll, he handed it back to Inuyasha.
"I see you got my note," he said with a chuckle.
"Yea, why else would I come back to this hell hole?" Inuyasha asked sardonically. Toutousai shook his head in an almost regretful manner.
"Yes, I suppose I don't blame you," the old man acknowledged, his eyes focusing on the young man's sword. "I see you still have the Tetsusaiga. How is it? Can I see?" Toutousai snatched the blade before Inuyasha could answer. Clucking his tongue disapprovingly, he examined the blade.
"I make this thing special for you and you go and knick it all up. Honestly Inuyasha, have you ever taken care of this sword?" Toutousai chided moving over to the fireplace. "As long as you're here I'm going to sharpen it up and do a little maintenance." The old man sat down and began working with the Tetsusaiga
"Speaking of why we're here..is there a reason you sent me a map and a note to see you as soon as possible? Or did you just want to take care of my sword?" Inuyasha asked impatiently. This place held to many memories for him and staying there only made it worse.
"Relax son, my news is worth your wait," the old blacksmith soothed. "I would have told you in a note, but I was afraid that it would fall into the wrong hands." Toutousai never looked up from his maintenance. Inuyasha said nothing, but merely glanced at Myouga, who shrugged in return. "I know who killed your father," Toutousai said finally without a hint of emotion. "And the map is where his, for lack of better word, hideout is rumored to be. No granted the location is just a rumor, but I know for a fact that it was he that brought down your father's ship." Toutousai finally looked up at Inuyasha, his expression blank. Inuyasha was in a state of shock. For nearly eight years the now 22 year old man had been searching for clues as to why his father's ship sank coming up with absolutely nothing, and now this old geezer suddenly knew everything.
"How long have you known?" Inuyasha asked coolly, trying to keep his jumble of emotions in check.
"Only a short while my boy. I wanted to be sure of my information before I told you. I wouldn't want you gallivanting off after this one if I wasn't dead sure," Toutousai tried to explain, but Inuyasha was growing impatient.
"Who the hell was it?" he growled, clenching his fists. "Tell me now."
"A pirate, the name's Naraku. He's a bad one Inuyasha, very bad. Sails a ship call the 'Onigumo'." Inuyasha froze, that name sounded so familiar.
[Where have I heard the name 'Onigumo'?] Inuyasha racked his brain, but could come up with nothing other than that it was said in passing, not a topic of conversation. Shaking his head, he turned his violet eyes on to the old man.
"And you say this map will lead me to him?" Inuyasha asked, holding out the carefully drawn illustration. Toutousai took a deep breath, Inuyasha hadn't heard a thing past 'Naraku killed your father'.
"Will you listen to me? This won't be a seek and destroy sort of thing Inuyasha. Naraku is a masterful swordsman and a clever sailor. Countless fleets have gone after him and came back with nothing. Finding him won't be easy. First of all you'll need a fast ship," Toutousai counted off on his fingers. "Secondly you'll need a strong and able crew. No cowards. Thirdly, you'll need to have something that he wants, otherwise he'll avoid you like the plague and finding him will be well nigh impossible." Toutousai watched for Inuyasha's reaction to his news. For a moment the boy seemed to contemplate his words, but then looked back at him with a blank stare.
"So does the map lead me to him or not?" Inuyasha pressed impatiently.
"Inuyasha sir, Toutousai is trying to warn you of the dangers of going after one like Naraku," Myouga interrupted. Inuyasha silenced him with a glare.
"I know what he's saying, but that doesn't change what I have to do. To avenge my father I have to destroy Naraku, it's as simple as that," the young man said matter-of-factly. Neither Myouga or Toutousai decided to argue with him further.
"Whatever you say, but here, you'll be needing this." Toutousai handed back the Tetsusaiga. "I've sharpened it for you."
"Thanks," Inuyasha said gruffly, as though the word were a little foreign to him. "Let's go Myouga. We need a crew," Inuyasha said, hauling off with the little man in tow.
"But Inuyasha, surely you don't need me to come. I can stay here and take care of your property where it is safe..er..so you're things will be safe," he finished lamely.
"I don't want to hear it Myouga, you're coming and that's that. Let's go. I need to find Miroku.."
-@--@-
"I don't know why you spend all your time out on that lousy ship deck. It does nothing for your hair," Kikyo grumbled as she brushed through Kagome's windblown tangles. "It's not like there is anything special up there anyway," the elder girl continued giving Kagome's head and especially hard yank. Kagome winced, but bit her tongue. She knew better than to complain in front of Kikyo. Her sister would call her unrefined and tell her that she needed to act like more of a lady.
"You need to start acting more like a lady. Lord Koga will not appreciate a primitive wife," Kikyo acknowledge, speaking of Kagome's betrothed. Kagome couldn't keep her displeasure to herself and let out a soft groan of disgust. "Kagome stop that," Kikyo admonished, pulling hard on the brush. "He did plead very eloquently for your hand in marriage. I think he will make a good husband for you."
"He's so..so..I don't know a nice way to put it but the opposite of smart," Kagome whined, trying not to concentrate on the vicious brush strokes. "Besides the only reason you're pushing for him so much is because of his cousin is Lord Hojo, who has been pleading for your hand," she muttered quietly.
"Hojo has nothing to do with this. Kagome you should consider yourself lucky. You can marry any suitor that comes to call. Me, I have to marry someone that will be good for daddy's name, not so frivolously as you," Kikyo explained. Kagome gritted her teeth and said nothing. Personally she didn't think that anything as serious and binding as marriage could be seen as frivolous, but there was no use trying to explain that to Kikyo.
"You need to stay out of the sun so much, it's ruining your complexion," Kikyo chided, setting the brush down and examining Kagome's face. "What do you do out there all day anyway?"
"Watch out for pirates," Kagome said sardonically, trying to pull her face away from Kikyo. Her sister's face paled slightly as she didn't pick up on Kagome's sarcasm.
"Pirates? There are no such thing.." Kikyo said pompously backing away from her sister. Even thought Kikyo spoke with conviction there was a hint of uncertainty and almost worry in her voice. Kagome weeded it out instantly and decided it was time for a little teasing.
"Oh yes there are. The captain was telling me all about them," Kagome said seriously, enjoying watching Kikyo's eyes grow wide.
"Why would you ask about such a thing?" Kikyo demanded indignantly. She didn't quite believe Kagome yet, but was well on her way. Kagome was having a hard time keeping a straight face.
"Because one can never be too prepared, and I figured it was valuable information. Now if a pirate attacks, I'm ready," Kagome said confidently, biting the insides of her cheeks to keep from laughing. Kikyo's sheltered life left her about as gullible as they come.
"Why? What do I do? Can you tell me?" Kikyo was gone, hook, line, and sinker. Her eyes had a glassy fearful look. Kagome almost felt sorry for her.
"Well, I suppose I should tell you, being as you're my sister and all," Kagome said dramatically, looking around as if she were worried someone was listening. "But you can't tell anyone else." Kikyo nodded rapidly, hanging on Kagome's every word. Man, she was going to be pissed.
"I promise! Just please tell me!" she hissed softly.
"Well okay. If we're attacked by pirates just throw yourself overboard. That way you'll at least have a fifty-fifty chance of surviving." Miraculously Kagome got this out with a straight face. Kikyo's jaw dropped.
"How do you figure?" she asked with narrowed eyes. She was clearly becoming suspicious of Kagome's fabrication.
"Easy. If there are survivors after the attack, they'll rescue you before you drown," Kagome said logically. Kikyo's expression was priceless, so much so that Kagome couldn't keep a straight face a moment longer. Starting out softly Kagome was soon laughing so hard she had tears streaming down her cheeks. Kikyo's fearful inquisition quickly changed to anger as she realized she had been duped.
"How dare you!" she seethed. "Frightening me like that! So childish!" Kagome only laughed harder.
"Wow, you should have seen the look on your face, it was priceless. Absolutely priceless." Kagome had to sit down to control her laughter.
"Oh you..you..brat!" Kikyo spluttered angrily, getting up and marching to her own quarters, leaving Kagome to calm herself down.
"Oh, that was good," Kagome continued to giggle to herself. There weren't really such things as pirates anymore nowadays. Any slightly educated person knew that. Not really tired, Kagome pulled on her robe and headed topside. The moon was nothing more than a sliver so the stars were very visible. Kagome lost her breath at the natural beauty.
"My lady?" a night watchmen approached Kagome. "What are you doing out here so late?" he asked politely. Kagome turned to him, her eyes still large with awe.
"I had no idea the stars were so pretty," she said softly, looking back up again. "I hope the weather stays this nice through the entire journey." The sailor looked a little confused by her ramblings, but nodded in agreement.
"Aye ma'am. This is perfect sailing weather. So long as the clouds stay back and the pirates keep at bay, I'd expect the entire trip to remain this serene." Kagome was knocked out of her musings by the mate's words.
"Pi-pirates?" she asked softly, her intense gray eyes trained on the sailor.
"Oh forgive me ma'am, I meant not to frighten you. There hasn't been a pirate attack in years. You don't have anything to fret," he assured her quickly. Kagome stood a little surprised for another moment, but nodded with a forced smile.
"Yes of course. I suppose it just surprises me that pirates still exist. I never would have thought." Kagome said slowly, though she couldn't deny that the thought thrilled her a little. There was something about danger that she enjoyed, it was such a sharp contrast to her safe and sheltered life.
"Well, as I said, there hasn't been any pirate activity for a good year now," the mate said, thinking back. "In fact I think the only real 'pirate' ship left was the 'Onigumo' but no one has seen it in years.
"How exciting," Kagome said earnestly. The mate clearly thought Kagome was crazy as he nodded, eyes wide, backing slowly away.
"Um right miss, though if I may, I must state that I would be perfectly happy not meet any such pirates that were found on the 'Onigumo'. Not a very civil bunch if you know what I mean." The mate gave Kagome a short bow and returned to his post. Kagome, head now full of pirate stories, wandered to the edge of the railing.
"Well I think it would be interesting," Kagome muttered to herself. There were tons of stories that depicted pirates as being just a bunch of fun- loving outlaws, sort of like Robin Hood in the ocean. Sighing Kagome decided to turn in. She was being naïve and was somewhat aware of it. Of course pirates were no better than common criminals, and therefore prone to be just as dangerous. It's just pirate sounded so much more glamorous than criminal.
"Awww, who really cares anyway. There haven't been pirates around for years, so what's the point of dwelling on it," she told herself harshly. Blowing out her candle, Kagome rolled over and succumbed to her dreams.
-@--@-
lostdreams: Okay, this is the part where you tell me what you think. Ready? Go! ^_^ (Please and Thank you!)