Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Inuyasha series or characters or any other copy written stuff that I may have referred to or used in this story. And my life sucks because of it. j/k
From Our Past
Chapter 7 A Night To Remember
"If you had taken the time to come to the meeting spot this morning then you would know the answer to that." Was the reply she got.
"Cut the shit Kagura. What are you doing here and more importantly where is the information?" Natai was not in the mood for her attitude right at this moment.
"All right but if you weren't so incompetent then you would know this. Naraku decided he wanted me to be more involved. I am to be the home base here at the hotel." Kagura sneered at Natai knowing it was making her fume. But the grin faded when she realized the statement didn't have the effect she thought it would.
"Humf!" Natai grunted then smirked at her. "How many blow jobs did it take to convince him of that?" The laughter from the others in the room made Kagura's normally pale face red with anger at the cool glare Natai was giving her. She shot out of her chair straight at Natai with the intention of digging her sharp claws in her neck but ended up grasping thin air. A sudden pain between her shoulder blades paralyzed her and she stood stiff as a board. Panic was setting in when she realized she could not even move her neck to look around her. Natai appeared in front of her vision with a wicked grin. Her clear blue eyes glittered with what Kagura thought could only be pure evil. "Foolish, very foolish." Natai shook her head sadly at her. "And you call yourself a professional." This caused more laughter from the others in the room. She held up a hand to still their mirth then looked at Kagura seriously. Slowly she brought her face within mere inches of Kagura's while looking her over carefully. She frowned then backed up.
"Consider yourself lucky this time. I won't hesitate to eliminate you if this happens again regardless of what Naraku wants. Remember one thing, I have known him for many years and I know what he will allow and what he won't. Don't feel you are more 'important' to him then what you are. You'll only be fooling yourself and end up dead before you know it. We are all replaceable." She turned and casually headed toward her room but stopped at the door. Kagura fought to say something but could not make any noise above a gurgle. "Think about what I have told you. I don't believe in spending a great deal of time explaining my actions to anyone. But since you are a bit 'slow' then I will make an exception. Right now I am going to take a shower then go shopping. I have a party to attend tonight." Natai smiled cheerfully and waved the invitation at her to get under her skin. It worked perfectly as Kagura's body started to shake with the rage she had trapped inside. Natai laughed as she retreated to the bathroom.
She closed and locked the door like anyone would but instead of getting into the shower she only turned the water on then sat on the counter waiting. A few minutes passed then a loud scream was heard from the outer room. Within seconds Kagura was pounding at the bathroom door. Giggling softly she held a hand up to her mouth and yelled back.
"What? I can't hear you I am in the shower. You will have to open the door." She snickered trying hard to hold back the maniacal laugh that wanted so desperately to escape her body.
The door knob jiggled, there was a gasp of pain, then the sound of a body hitting the floor outside the door. Gracefully she jumped off the counter and opened the door. Lobo stood there with a frown on his masculine face looking down at the unconscious body of Kagura.
"She is really pathetic." Natai shook her head at Kagura with a grin on her face.
"You are going to hear about this you know." Lobo looked at her with a smirk on his face. "Want some company?" His smirk turned to a grin at the look of shock on her face.
"No I want you to put her in your room and you sleep on the couch for that comment." His grin turned to a pout. "Or you could just share the room with her. I hear she is easy." She burst out laughing at the grimace that appeared on his face. He leaned down and scooped the woman off the floor and threw her over his shoulder.
"I would be afraid of catching something. I think I'll pass. She will call Naraku as soon as she wakes up you know. You will catch hell for this." The look of concern was endearing.
"I know but she won't wake up until morning so I have until then to see if I can end this tonight. The invitation is from Iyoutai himself. The man wants to meet me. I feel so special." She batted her eyes like a giddy school girl then laughed at his frown. "Oh come on Lobo it will work out. I can't throw this opportunity away." He shook his head.
"It could be a trap." His frown grew deeper.
"I know it could be. If something happens to me it wouldn't matter to anyone anyway. You all will be ready to carry out the mission and...." His hand shot out and grabbed her wrist. She looked into his eyes and could see the hurt there.
"It would matter to me. Natai don't go there. Don't be foolish enough to trust them. I don't want to see you get hurt." The desperation in his voice touched her heart deeply. She placed her free hand on his cheek gently to reassure him.
"I don't plan on going there to die. I will be very careful." She pulled her wrist from his grasp when he relaxed his hold on her. His head leaned into her palm but he didn't say anything else. She watched him carry Kagura into his room then she shut the door again to take a much needed shower.
"Sango!" Kagome's voice called cheerfully through the guest house.
"In here Kagome." Sango called back from the computer room. Kagome quickly walked into the room to find Sango setting on Shippo's lap. Both staring at the computer screen while Sango instructed him about something on the computer. Most would have thought this scene was innocent enough but the first thing Kagome noticed was his hand was resting on Sango's hip just above her thigh then she saw the grin he had. Kagome crossed her arms over her chest and stared at the fox demon intently.
"Shippo what are you doing?" She asked in a calm voice. He turned and looked at her only to see she was staring at his hand. He removed it quickly and chuckled light hearted.
"Sango is showing me something. It won't take but a few more minutes. I know how bored you get with this stuff so you could go wait out in the dining room." He kept glancing back at the door she had come in as a signal for her to exit. Her frown grew more determined.
"But you have two D....." She started to remind him of his two Doctrines in Computer Sciences when she was interrupted.
"Well yes but there are somethings that can't be learned out of a book. Sango is so good at this and has some 'special' ways of using her hands...umm.... I mean fingers on the keys." He sputtered out quickly.
"I see well I am afraid this can't wait. Sango we have to get our dresses for tonight. Come on now so we can have a little fun while we are at it and not be rushed." Kagome hissed at him disapprovingly. "And while we are gone you need to get back to work on those photos.
"Oh those I have already finished. Look here." Sango stood up to get out of his way so he could show Kagome what he found. "You look at this picture of the Inuyasha guy and he looks normal but when you use this program I have and start to dissect the pixels you come up with this." He punched a key and the picture started to change especially the eyes. Kagome watched in amazement as the lavender turned golden and his pupils became more like that of a cat. "He is definitely a demon. I knew I smelled it on you before." Shippo puffed out his chest with self pride. Kagome patted his shoulder and smiled.
"Good job sweaty. I knew you would be able to get it if anyone could. But it doesn't change what I feel when I am around him. I trust him allot and still don't believe he has anything to do with the disappearances." She ran a finger absentmindedly over the screen where his face was.
"Oh I have been looking into that as well. I checked back for 3 years and neither of your two gentlemen were with in a thousand miles of the area when the youki disappeared. If they are involved it is very discretely and they are very careful to cover up their tracks. But I honestly don't think they are." He smiled again. "So you guys are going out with them again tonight? Is it possible that I can come?" He looked hopefully at them.
"I am afraid not. It is by special invitation only. Some kind of awards banquet. Anyway I will carry my warning beacon with me just in case." They were interrupted by Sango's voice from the door saying the limo was there. She kissed him on the head and grabbed her purse before heading out the door.
Natai walked casually down the sidewalk looking at the displays in the windows. So far she had been in five stores and nothing caught her eye. Finally she spotted a limo parked in front of a clothing store named Vico's. 'This could be promising.' She thought as she opened the door and took her sunglasses off.
Inside she saw very stylish clothes and was immediately accosted by a sales person wanting to spend her money for her. Natai simply informed her she was just looking and glanced around the store. There were only a few other women in there shopping at this time so she felt comfortable. Slowly she walked through the racks until her attention was captured by two women that were showing each other some of the evening gowns.
"What about this one?" A young woman with dark brown hair that was up in a high ponytail asked another even younger woman with black hair that shimmered with blue highlights.
"Too pale, your skin color will look like a yellow squash. Try to stay away from any pastels or florescent colors they just aren't you Sango." The black haired woman replied with out even looking at her. Casually Natai walked over to the rack that the woman called Sango had just left and began looking. She pulled out something in pink then a light teal but frowned. Suddenly a hand settled on hers and she flinched involuntarily. She followed the hand up a slender arm to the face of the black haired woman. "Sorry but I just could not let my fashion sense let you get something here either. You are too pale. With those eyes you should look for something more cooling in a deep color." The woman smiled at Natai and offered her a hand to shake. "Kagome at your service. Fashion is my passion." She giggled. Natai smiled slightly but took her hand and gave it a firm single shake.
"Natai. Nice to meet you. So you work here?" Kagome giggled again and shook her head.
"No but I buy all my clothes from Vico. I love his styles. And from the looks of your build....." she stepped back and looked Natai up and down, "you shouldn't have any problems finding things here. Are you some sort of model you have a beautiful figure." Natai actually felt her face blush but shook her head no.
"I just work out allot. I am just not sure what to get. I have a very special dinner to go to. It is more of a formal meeting I guess you would say." She walked over to a rack a little away and picked up something in black and held it to herself.
"Formal yes but only if you are going to a funeral. What impression are you trying to give at this meeting? Serious or light hearted?" Kagome joined her at the same rack looking at her with deep thought behind her eyes. Natai had to think about it. What was she trying to state? 'Hello Mr. Iyoutai, I am here to kill you.' She closed her eyes and smiled more to herself then anyone else at that thought.
"Dark and mysterious I guess would be the best way to describe the meeting I have to attend considering the man I am to meet." She could only smile when Kagome's eyes lit up.
"I think I know just what you need." Kagome motioned for her to follow her over to a rack of long dresses that hung from the wall. She searched through the articles carefully accessing them mentally. After several long minutes she pulled out a long red silk dress in a traditional style with a high collar and sleeveless. Gold dragons danced in elegant circles above scenes of bamboo trees. The split up the back looked fairly sexy but not slutty. She handed that one to Natai and instructed her to go try it on while she looked for more. Natai looked at her uneasily but complied since she didn't have a fashion sense for formal evening wear. Naraku had always provided all her fancy formal wear until she left him. When Natai stepped out of the dressing room, Kagome turned to look at her but frowned.
"No that is still not right. It looks too....I don't know. Almost slutty. Here try this one." Kagome handed Natai yet another dress and ushered her off to the dressing room. All this attention was a bit confusing for Natai since she had never had anyone offer to help her of their own free will.
"Oh kami! Kagome look at this one." Sango said from some where out side the dressing room.
"That's the one! It is so perfect. Sango you are a genius." Kagome squealed with glee. Shortly after a dress was flopped over the top of the dressing room door. "Try this one on instead." Natai heard Kagome's feet shuffle away from the door. She looked at the dark blue dress in the dim light. Even though it was not the best light, the material seemed to shimmer and sparkle in the light that was present. The material was as soft as silk and slid over her hands as she looked at it. It seemed so fragile she as afraid of ripping it.
Gently she slid it over her head. Soft folds delicately fell over her curves to cling just right. On each side there was a slit on the seam of the floor length skirt that ran up to her mid thigh that soothed her tense leg muscles as she moved about the small changing room. The yoke formed perfectly above her full bust and was held in place by small spigetti straps that swung over her shoulders and made a cross to the opposite side of her back. The one thing that made her the most nervous was the lowness of the back itself. It was barely above the small of her back.
"Well how does it look?" Came Kagome's anxious voice from beyond the door. Natai took a deep breath and stepped out. Her head shot up from floor when she heard a few gasps. Both sales clerks, Sango, Kagome and another shopper were all staring at her with awe very evident in their eyes.
"Does it look bad?" Natai said hesitantly with a flushed face. This was exactly why she didn't shop much. She hated the suspense and anxiety of it all. The large smile that soon appeared on Kagome's face told her she had nothing to fear.
"You look awesome. That dress was made for you." Kagome said showing how pleased she was with it. Now that Natai was in better light she could see that the dress was a midnight blue almost black but the shimmering threads that danced in the light allowed the true color to come through. "Ok now for accessories." Kagome soon was lost in looking for a purse to match, a shawl and of course shoes. Within minutes Natai was completely ready for her date that night. As she was leaving the store Kagome reminded her that a little makeup was usually enough. Natai smiled and waved back at her as she walked down the street to flag down a cab.
Later that afternoon Natai sat in her room waiting for the phone call that would tell her that the limo was there to pick her up. On the bed next to her was her suitcase that contained many small throwing daggers as well as other small devices used in her profession. She flipped through the many slender holders that would remind someone of flipping through a CD case in search of the weapons she wanted. Finally she found the leg strap that could hold three knives. Carefully she pulled out three small daggers that looked metallic but at the same time lacked the shiny surface like the other stainless steel ones in the case. These she placed in the leather holder then buckled it on her upper thigh just inside her leg to keep it from showing as she walked.
Finally the phone rang and she prayed it wasn't Naraku wanting to talk to them about the mission. With Kagura indisposed it would be hard to make up a lie to explain why she couldn't talk to him or call him back. A tap on the door let her know she needed to come out. Her stomach was full of butterflies but she didn't know why. It could have been the fact that she rarely showed a very feminine side like this to her co-workers. As she stepped out she heard Lobo's breath catch in his throat. Hiten let out a low whistle of appreciation while Maten simply drooled. Smiling inwardly she turned to Lobo with a serious face.
"You look....incredible." He whispered. His eyes scanned her body hungrily having a hard time keeping his hands to himself. He glanced at the intricate weave of the bun on the back of her head that was held in place by two ivory and gold dragon shaped chop sticks. Her soft pink flesh seemed to glisten in the fading light from the balcony window.
"You are just saying that so I won't rip your throat out." She grinned at him but knew he meant it. "Now before I go let me make this clear. You know if I need you to pick me up I will use the cell phone. Don't answer the hotel phone. If Naraku calls I will deal with him when I get back. But if I don't return then reform at the second location and follow up with the mission. Don't waist time trying to find me by then I will probably be dead. Are we clear?" Lobo frown but nodded. She turned her attention to Hiten and Maten. They both nodded then she walked over to Maten and lifted his chin. "You need to wipe that drool off your chin before it gets on your shirt." She smiled sweetly then went down to the lobby to meet her ride. Maten blushed profusely.
She was surprised to say the least when she saw the long line of limos in front of hers that were letting people out at a roped off section in front of the glass building. Hundreds of people as well as reporters and photographers were pushing and shoving to get closer to the rich and famous that were stepping out on the red carpet. She could only assume that some were celebrities but she would not recognize them since she didn't follow the paparazzi kind of tabloid publications or television shows. When it came to her turn she was hesitant to take the hand that was offered to her by the usher after opened the door.
Slowly she stepped out of the car and immediately flashes assaulted her eyes from all around her. Swallowing her nervousness she gave a small nod to the man holding her hand as she pulled free of him and gracefully walked toward the doors in front of her focused eyes. She tuned out all the questions being flung at her by reporters asking her name or who she was there representing. It was none of their business anyway. Just as she approached the doors the same handsome silverhaired delivery boy was waiting for her. She graciously took his offered arm then sighed as they quickly left the buzz of the front doors behind them.
"I had no idea this was such a big event. If I had then..." She whispered as he walked her past the metal detector station. She glanced around at the security quickly and made a mental note of their positioning for future reference if needed.
"Then you may not have come?" He kept his eyes forward as if looking for something while navigating through the hundreds of tables.
"That is possible." She replied flatly. "Anyway I am here now so where is my mysterious host? Or did he leave you to entertain me because he couldn't make it." She gave him a devilish smile. He gulped and shook his head no.
"Actually he is here but had other business to attend to at this time. He merely asked me to be sure you found your table. I assure you he will be with you as soon as he possibly can." There was a short pause then he stopped and looked at her. His eyebrows furrowed. "I am surprised that the metal detectors didn't go off when you passed them. Am I to believe that the most dangerous woman here is without her weapons to protect her?" Inuyasha teased softly. She smiled dryly.
"I don't need weapons to defend myself my friend. This room is full of them with out my having to bring any. Would you like a demonstration?" He smirked but shook his head then continued to walk. A short moment later they came to a table right up front by the dance floor and centered with the speech podium. She quickly looked at the other patrons of the table and smiled.
"I would like to introduce you to the others at our table. This is my date Ka...." She leaned forward and held Kagome's outstretched hand in both of hers.
"Yes we have met. How do you think it came out? Does it meet your expectations?" Natai released her hand and spun around a bit for her to see it all. Inuyasha looked between Natai and Kagome acting like they were old friends but didn't know what to make of it. He knew enough about the woman to wait until she decided to explain.
"You look ravishing. Your mystery man will love it and if he doesn't then take anyone of the young men that are goggling over you in the room." Kagome giggled with sparkling eyes. Natai just smiled back.
"Sango thank you again for picking out this dress for me." Natai added not remembering if she had even acknowledged her before in the store.
"I knew it would be perfects with your eyes and all. It looked beautiful on you." Sango smiled back at her then noticed Miroku's jaw. With out much tenderness she slapped the bottom of his chin to close it then excused herself to go to the restroom. She stomped off cursing about lechurous men. Miroku watched her storm off as he stood.
"Hello, Miroku,' he bowned quickly, "umm....excuse me a moment." And he dashed off after Sango.
"Interesting." Natai stated as she watched them. She turned to look at Inuyasha who cleared his throat and saw he was holding her chair out that was next to his and Kagome's. Smiling shyly she took it and began looking around the room to see if there was anyone else around she knew.
He looked at the contract one more time to make sure it was in order then stuffed it back into the manila folder and set it on a stack of like folders at the corner of his desk. Leaning back in his soft leather chair he rubbed the bridge of his nose and closed his eyes for a brief moment to get his focus back. No matter what he did his thoughts would always return to the same subject. All his efforts at working more were not enough to keep that troublesome woman out of his mind. The phone rang on his desk interrupting his quiet evening at the office. He was about to yell for his secretary then remembered he had sent her home early so he could get some peace and quiet.
"Aiyama Corporation, Naraku speaking." He answered still rubbing the bridge of his nose.
"I think you better turn on the news sir." Came the smooth voice of his secretary. "They are going to show the clip again in five minutes. I think you will find it very interesting." She finished before hanging up. Naraku frowned at the dead line contemplating whether to believe her or not. After all Yura was very flaky most the time and her hair fetish could drive him up the wall. If she didn't have such excellent communication skills he would have disposed of her long ago. Sighing in defeat he walked over to the couch and turned on the television. He sat back watching the weather update then the regular news team came back on.
"And now we return to the activities going on tonight in LA." One blonde man said with a sparkling smile that was too blinding to look at for very long. The screen switched over to a live camera team somewhere in the down town area.
"Yes Dean, there is allot of excitement tonight at the LA Plaza. The annual Banquet of Recognition to Humanity hosted by the Iyoutai Corporation has many attending from the rich and famous of Beverly Hills as well as many celebrities." The reporter went on to mention some names of popular celebrities that were attending or receiving awards. "But Dean the highlight for many of the men down here came in the form of an unknown beauty." The screen flipped again to a prerecorded scene from earlier that night of a black limo pulling up to the red carpet.
Naraku watched with bored interest until the 'unknown beauty' raised her fair head above the dark glass of the back seat door. He moved closer as he watched unsure of what he was seeing at first. His heart wanted to tell him there was no way it was her. Finally the camera zoomed in to a clear shot of her face with that trade mark pouty smile she often used then backed off as she gracefully walked down the carpet to the door. The reporter resited the reactions of the crowd toward her as the scene was being taped.
"Well Jerry did you manage to find out for our viewers just who this striking mystery woman is?" Asked Dean in the back ground.
"No names were revealed but I have it from reliable sources that she is a personal guest of Mr. Iyoutai himself. The limo she arrived in was his personal car." That was all Naraku needed to see. He hit the off button on the controller before throwing it at the television.
Anger filled the air around him as he ran his hands through his thick hair trying to contain control of his emotions. His mind spun with questions, acusations and reasons but the one that surfaced the most was 'Why?'. He turned on his heel and grabbed the phone off his desk. Hitting quick dial he put in the code and waited for an answer.
"Get the jet ready I want to leave with in the hour." He said smoothly with out show of any emotion. "Destination LA. Chart it. I am leaving the office now." He grabbed his jacket while heading for the door.
Natai listened intently as Kagome, Sango, Inuyasha and Miroku all talked about normal day to day things that new couples would speak of in order to learn more about each other. After about fifteen minutes of waiting the lights dimmed and the spot light focused on the podium. A short bald man with bugged out eyes walked forward and began the evening of speeches by doing an introduction of what would be coming. His short five minute speech ended with the applause greeting Mr. Iyoutai himself. Natai was eager in a way to see if his pictures did him any justice. He looked rather pale and sickly in them. It was hard to fathom a man with that much power being a weakling.
From the side a dark haired man approached the podium to tower over the short bald one. She instantly knew this to be Iyoutai. Regardless of the impression his pictures gave you he stood tall and straight. His stride represented strength and sheer power radiated from his very being. He was no weakling. She watched his emotionless face as he began to speak. The deep rich sound flooded over her like a memory from long ago. Her eyes remained fixed on him as he spoke afraid of missing something. Impulsively she took a sip of her wine from time to time in order to keep her mouth from becoming dry.
The first part of the speech was pretty standard giving thanks to all the people behind the scene that helped to make the function a success. Then he went more into depth of the reasons behind the awards altogether. His face didn't betray any emotion but his voice held such depth she was on the edge of her seat the whole time waiting for something spectacular to happen. She glanced around the room quickly to see the reaction of others and it seemed the whole place was mesmerized by his velvety deep voice. Before she knew it the trance was broken by applauding hands. She lowered her gaze blushing slightly as she joined in the clapping. Her attention was soon caught by the chair next to her being pulled out as Iyoutai took it to set down. She looked into his eyes now close up and thought she could see something golden flicker behind them but shook off the feeling when she felt him take her hand.
"The Lady Natai I presume." He smiled coolly and kissed the back of her hand. She only nodded then returned the smile a bit unnerved by his boldness. She only stared at him since she couldn't think of anything more original to say then 'Mr. Iyoutai I believe.' and that would not do. Again her thoughts were shattered by his deep smooth voice. "I don't think I have ever had the pleasure of leaving a devastating beauty such as you speechless. Perhaps more wine would help to loosen your voice." He smirked at her as he filled her wine glass from the flaggard on the table surprising her. Gathering her wits she knew she needed to answer him or be considered a complete moron.
"I apologize. I didn't not mean to be rude it is just....well I wasn't expecting this." She confessed but it still didn't seem like the right thing to say.
"What were you expecting?" He asked quietly.
"I was not sure what to expect actually. Your request was rather unorthodox to say the least." She mustered all her emotions to return his gaze and added a serene smile with it. His smile grew a bit then he picked up her hand and kissed it again.
"I have to say I was not expecting such a delicate vision either. I do hope you forgive the delay in our meeting but I did have things to attend to." He continued to hold her hand possessively over his heart. Subconsciously she heard the voice of speakers in the back ground and people applauding but had no desire to listen or join in. Her whole focus was on the man beside her.
"Of course it is expected when you host such a gathering." She glanced down at her lap wondering if she should try to pull her hand back although she really didn't want to for some reason.
"Well with that in mind, I hate to make our chat short but I do have others to see before they come looking for me. I promise to return as soon as possible. In the mean time my associates will see that you receive the treatment due royalty in my absence. Please forgive me." He stood quickly but leaned down so that his mouth was near her ear and whispered so only she could hear. "I have much to show you." He gently inhaled her scent and nuzzled his nose behind her ear before disappeared into the crowd. Natai sat there stunned to say the least. A girlish blush heated her cheeks at the feel of his breath on her neck. Emotions swelled up inside of her she didn't understand.
'Who was this man to bring out such a reaction in her?' She thought to herself. She was definitely disturbed by her feelings and didn't know what to think. Her thoughts were so self absorbed that she didn't even notice her companions at the table trying to get her attention.
"Natai? Are you ok?" Kagome placed her hand gently over Natai's to get her attention. Natai looked at her blankly then smiled wryly.
"Yes Kagome I am fine just a little confused is all. I will be fine." She assured the concerned woman.
"We are going up to the tables to get a plate. Would you care to join us?" Inuyasha offered his hand to her but she shook her head.
"I don't really like crowds that much. I am sure you can understand." She smiled sweetly at him. He smiled back knowing what she was getting at.
"Yes I do, I will have Kagome help me fill a small plate of appetizers for you." He bowed to her and left with Kagome in tow. Natai sat quietly at the table by herself while the others went for food. She watched the band set up patiently still wrapped up in her thoughts. Twenty minutes later the four returned with several plates of food that they set across the table for all to share. Natai smiled at the familiarity they expressed with each other. It was truly endearing to her but something she herself had never really been comfortable with. Perhaps it was due to her profession that made her keep most people at arms length and wouldn't allow her to get close to anyone emotionally. Or it could be past experiences that made her heart shy away from attachment. Either way it was something she could not fight.
The group chatted non stop until the music started to play. The banquet came alive with happy people who began to dance and basically party it up a bit. Natai sat at the table watching happy couples glide across the floor sharing the company of the person they were with. She envied them for their hearts, for their spirit, but most of all for their freedom to be able to feel. A tear slipped down her cheek but she caught it before anyone noticed. She glanced up to see Miroku and Sango holding each other close just swaying in one spot. It almost tore her apart to watch such happiness.
'This is insane. I have to leave now before...' Her train of thought broke off there. Before what? She cried? It didn't matter anymore she just needed to leave. Sucking up the feelings and tossing the emotions to the back of her heart she patted Kagome on the hand and inquired for the restroom. Inuyasha answered her with a point then the two went right back to their conversation. Graciously she excused herself and headed in the direction he had pointed. Shortly she did in fact find the restroom and quickly went in to get some much needed privacy. There were still several other ladies in there but at least a stall offered somewhere quiet where she could think for a few moments. Finally coming up with a decision she flushed the toilet so the others there would think she was there for actual business and not some sulking fit. Not that they would know it but she had been in there a while.
After rinsing her hands off and drying them she exited the room and headed back toward the front doors where she would simply call a cab and return to the security of her hotel room. Just twenty feet ahead was her escape when she felt someone take her hand gently. She turned around to softly reject yet another request for her company but found herself face to face with Iyoutai once again. The look in his eyes seemed almost sad.
"Mr. Iyoutai... I am sorry....but I really need to..." She said hesitantly trying desperately to think of something that would sound true so she could leave. He cocked his head to one side then smiled at her boyishly.
"Well before you leave, would you at least give me one dance?" He asked softly. She couldn't resist as she found herself being pulled back toward the dance floor. Just as they reached it the song changed to a soft slow dance called 'Do You Remember?' His eyes locked with hers as he put his hand on the small of her back pulling her closer to him. She could feel her face flush slightly but managed to look away hoping he would not see the effect he had on her. The way he gently held her reminded her of someone from long ago. She had almost forgotten those memories. They were just too painful. Naraku had been right when he told her to do so. You can't live in the past you must grasp the future. She was brought out of her thoughts again by his breath floating softly against her neck as he spoke.
"I know you are very busy so to speak but I do have some information you may find...interesting if nothing else. It would honor me if you would allow me to show you this before you flee from my presence tonight." His voice was barely a whisper in her ear. It sent tingles through her body making her legs feel weak. As if he could read her thoughts he pulled her even closer to his body. This move caused her body to react even more. She could feel his lean muscles through his clothes as he moved. Her desire was beginning to build. 'This is insanity. I can not be feeling this toward someone I am supposed to kill.' Her mind demanded but her body betrayed her and melted even more into his grasp. Before she knew it the song ended and he was ushering her off the dance floor toward their table.
"Inuyasha, I must finish discussing things with Lady Natai. You know what to do if anyone asks after me." He stated simply. Inuyasha nodded then took Kagome out on the dance floor. Iyoutai stopped at the table only long enough to transfer the information. He held Natai's hand firmly but not too hard. She felt as if he was afraid she might bolt and she knew he was probably right. She was not even sure if she wouldn't just run if given the chance. While they left the table he placed her arm on his and wove a path through the tables to a set of stairs that led up to the suites above.
Solemnly they walked arm in arm until he stopped them in front of a dark oak door with an electric lock. He pulled the swipe key out of his pocket then put it through the slot. The door opened to a dark room beyond. Silently he stepped inside and switched on the lights then allowed her to walk through before closing the door and setting the dead bolt. She turned and looked at him suspiciously. He held up his hands in his defense.
"Merely a way to ensure that our discussion will not be interrupted. If you believe that there is any other reason then I assure you I am well aware of your capabilities." She relaxed and felt sort of foolish but it was part of her instinct. He calmly walked farther into the room to a small bar. There he retrieved two glasses and a bottle from the refrigerator. He poured an ample amount in each then offered her one. She sipped it gingerly as she looked at him. He had unbuttoned his tux and threw it casually over the bar. Presently he was working on loosening up his bow tie. It was beginning to aggravate her some so she stepped forward and set her glass on the bar counter before helping him untie the troublesome piece of attire.
"Thank you." He muttered lowly then handed her back her glass.
"I am sure you did not invite me here to help you undress." She smiled at the shocked look he had. "Or maybe you did. I assure you that is not why I am here. No more games please. What was it you wanted to meet with me about?" She watched him for further reactions but he simply sighed and walked farther into the setting area of the room where the lighting was still quite dark. He leaned over and picked up a remote. His face showed signs of deep thought as he bounced the remote gently in his hand then he looked at her.
"I have some things to show you that you may like to see. But then perhaps you won't want to be reminded either." She gave him a questioning look. With out any more pausing he held the remote toward the dark wall and turned on the display lights. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared at what was before her in disbelief. There in a glass case were two swords and a man's battle dress from days of old, placed on a mannequin with out a head. She knew these items well. Her past revolved around them. First anger then fear crossed her emotional mask. Her heart felt as if it would beat a hole through her rib cage as she slow started to walk closer to the articles within the case.
Subconsciously she took a large swallow from the glass in her hand to draw courage from the clear liquid inside it. Cautiously she ran a hand over the cool surface of the glass case staring in wonder at the garment inside. "Where..." she started to ask.
"Does it matter?" His voice cooed from behind her. "Would you like to see them closer?" He asked and stepped closer to her. She turned and looked at him desperate to know if these were what she thought or if he was playing a cruel joke on her. He looked into her eyes as he placed the key in the lock to open it. As soon as the door opened her breath caught at the scent trapped within. It poured through her senses to draw on her deepest memories from the past she had stuffed away. Biting her shaking bottom lip she ran her fingers gently over the hilt and scabbard of the sword on the right side of the garment.
"Toukijin." She whispered so low she almost didn't hear it herself. Her eyes closed as if caught in a memory. When they opened she turned her focus on the other sword. Fingers slid up the smooth surface of the scabbard to linger on the tassel that hung from the handle.
"Tensaiga." Her voice seemed thick in her throat and she forced herself to breath in deeply. She took another swallow from the glass to calm herself before turning her attention to the garment its self. With pain in her heart she reached forward to touch the soft fabric but hesitated. Again she inhaled the scent deeply charishing the earthy smell of a forest just after a fresh rain.
She closed her eyes again trying to draw upon her strength to squash the emotions that began to flood through her. 'You know you want this. Touch it and remember.' She could hear a voice from somewhere. She scoffed to herself thinking her mind was slipping. With stubborn conviction she swallowed the last of the liquid from the glass and set it down on the counter next to the glass case. Breathing deeply to steady her nerves she reached a shaky hand to the hem of the hakama. Silken fabric glided easily between her forefinger and thumb as they ran along its smooth surface. Gasping at the feel she closed her eyes and let her mind wonder into the dark recesses of her memories.
Flash back
The cool late afternoon air felt wonderful on her heated skin. The days had been warmer then she remembered from years before. But then she was still young and didn't really remember even thinking about things such as weather in the past. Smiling to her self she let her fingers glide over the surface of the tranquil pond before bringing her fingers up to let the water droplets caress the hot skin of her neck. Many of the drops glided down her smooth skin and under the collar of her kimono. Sighing she closed her eyes and thanked kami for this time she was granted. It was her day away from serving and she was determined to enjoy it while she could.
Her mind began to wonder over miniscual things that were second nature to her now. 'How long had it been now? How long had she been here? Four, five or maybe six years?' She tried to think back how many summers and winters she had been trapped in her current position. Then it came to her. The memory of a sixth birthday entered her mind as if it was only yesterday. She recalled the feeling of excitement when they told her she was getting the best present of all. Someone had actually wanted her. Little did she know at the time that it was only to be an exchange from one suffocating existence to another.
She scoffed at herself for thinking that way. In all actuality Mistress Kaori had saved her from a far worse fate. Sure she may have been adopted by a family but most likely she would have been purchased by a house of lesser social status. Here she was treated with respect and only the richest of men could afford her company. That was ten years ago. A smile graced her content face. The sun setting in the western sky was a sight to see on this tranquil evening. It spread its last fingers of light across the partially cloudy sky in a spectacular splash of colors. Bright golden yellow turned to oranges then pinks and on to darker purples. It was a wonderful sight to behold and one that only nature could provide.
Iyoutai stepped closer to her from behind while she ran her delicate fingers across the material. She didn't notice his soft touch when he placed a hand on her shoulder and ran it down her silky arms. Patiently he waited for her response with in her trance like state.
Suddenly she felt a presence. Questioningly she raised her eyes to look around her until they settled on a lone figure of a man across the pond from her in the twilight darkness of the forest's edge. His white clothes and hair blew gently in the breeze making him look almost like a ghost. Hastily she reverted her gaze to the grass where she sat. 'Who could it be?' Surely it was merely a passing stranger to this area. A wanderer that was simply passing by. Boldly she looked back to see if he was still there but nothing was there. She stood quickly and looked along the edge of the dark forest for any sign of him but found nothing. Her eyes scanned the edge of the pond and along the road next to it for any signs but still nothing.
In defeat she sat back down to think about what had just happened. She no longer had the feelings from before. His presence had left along with his ghostly image. The sounds of footsteps coming down the pebble path from the house brought her out of her summery of the sighting. She looked up into the smiling face of one of the novices who bowed low to her.
"Mistress Kaori wishes you return to the safety of the house Lady." The girl smiled sweetly at her. Without question she stood and followed the younger girl to the back steps of the Geisha house. As quietly as possible she closed the screen behind her and went to set by the window in her room to finish watching the sunset. From her window she could see the pond where she had been setting.
His soft breath glazed the skin of her neck and shoulder. She shivered as if chilled still trapped inside her trance like state of mind so he rubbed her shoulders gently to warm her. He closed his eyes to concentrate and once again he waited patiently for another sign.
To her amazement there stood the same ghostly figure that she saw across the pond. Her heart began to beat rapidly as she watched him squat down and examine the grass in the same spot she had been setting earlier. His head lifted up and looked directly at her. She flushed and threw herself to the floor afraid he was some sort of evil spirit that was bent on claiming her soul. After a few moments she gathered her courage and forced herself to look out the window again. He was gone. A milky mist had formed over the pond giving it a haunted appearance and she was very glad she had come inside.
She held her hand over her heart while taking in deep breaths to steady her frayed nerves. Closing her eyes she said a prayer in her mind to kami or any god that would listen to keep her soul safe from unearthly phantoms that might come to visit her while she slept. An unexpected knock on her door made her squeak in surprise. The door opened quickly and a servant girl ran in to attend to her.
"Lady I am very sorry for scaring you. It was unintentional I assure you." She patted the young geisha on the back soothingly. An unwanted tear fell from her eyes as she gasped for air. Her heart thudded in her ears and her hand was shaking. 'Why am I so nervous? There is nothing to fear here.' She said to her self over and over. After gathering herself she was able to speak.
"Why have you come to my room? I am not to serve tonight." She stated flatly still gathering her thoughts.
"Mistress Kaori wishes you serve just one gentleman this evening." The girl stammered out quickly. Shock filled her face then anger but before she could express her unhappiness at being denied her day of rest the girl continued pleading. "He offers three times as much and Mistress promises to give you at least a third for you to keep and spend as you wish. He insists on having your company and says he has traveled far but can not wait until tomorrow to meet with you. You will not regret this one he is very handsome and his voice could melt a heart of ice. Shall I get your supplies ready for you?" The girl looked into the air with dreamy eyes as she spoke of the strange man. This did raise her curiosity a bit.
"You saw him?" She inquired of the young starry eyed girl. The girl nodded her head enthusiastically with a grin from ear to ear.
"Yes Lady, his face is like that of an angel and he has the most deep golden eyes." She made a swooning sound but quickly recovered.
"Golden eyes? That is unusual. I know I don't really have a choice if Mistress wishes this but I do appreciate the request for my preference. I will get ready while you prepare my dining supplies. Be quick now I am sure if he has come such a long way then he will not want to be kept waiting." The servant girl dashed out of the room quickly.
Sighing she went to her cabinet to dress in her costume. Carefully she pulled the extravagant garment from with in and laid it gently on the futon in the middle of the room. Since time was an issue she didn't waist much time preparing herself but still felt she looked rather elegant. Ordinarily she would wait for one of the servant girls to assist her with her hair and put it in an exquisite bun. A special knock on her outer door was a signal that the gentleman was becoming impatient. So she opted not to put it in any fancy styles and raced to the entertainment room where she waited for the servant girl to finish setting up the burners, pots and food.
Nodding to each other the servant girl left to get the gentleman while she reached into the sleeve of her kimono for her veil but couldn't find it. Panicked she looked around frantically thinking that perhaps she had left it in the room from last night. Mistress forbid her to serve with out it on. She insisted that her liquidy eye color would startle the best paying customers away. She wanted her to hide her face at all times so men would not become appauled by her so called homely looks. Even when she was outside she was to wear it. A sudden thought came to mind. Outside! She had worn it outside at the pond and taken it off to get a better view of the sky during the sunset. Damn the luck! She was about to dash out the back to retrieve it when the silk screen door began to open.
Quickly she turned her whole body so that her back was to the door and she was facing the burners. With steady hands she lit the candles beneath the pot to heat the water. She heard the Mistress clear her throat in disappointment that the tea was not already ready but she kept her hand steady as she worked on preparing the food for him. It was nothing much really. Just simple appetizers that were part of ritual for her to serve him. The main meal would be brought in after a while. Biting her lip she refused to turn around to the heated glare she could feel focused on the back of her head. Another strike against her, she had left her hair loose so it flowed down her back naturally.
"Lady, this is Lord Sesshomaru. See to it you serve him well and do not disappoint him do you understand?" Her voice was coated with distaste.
"Hai Mistress I will serve him as he wishes." She replied while putting the tea leaves in the pot. She heard the russle of fabric behind her and could feel him settle on the zabuton. Patiently she waited for the sliding shoji to close before pouring the tea.
In her subconscious she was unaware of his lips pressing a soft kiss on her neck just below her earlobe. He restrained himself knowing she needed more time. He inhaled her sweet tangerine scent to calm himself. Closing his eyes he slowly lowered his head and rested it on the back of her neck. He refused to relinquish his hold on her just yet. The physical contact seemed to enhance the memories for her. He needed to concentrate harder and guide her to the right conclusion.
She served him his tea traditionally while holding her sleeve away from the table to avoid spilling it but was able to keep her face shielded behind her hair. He leaned forward slightly to look at her but she quickly shifted and turned back to the task of preparing his appetizers. She knew she could not avoid him forever and be forced to retrieve her veil. Using her hair as a barrier she bowed to him calmly.
"My apologies Sesshomaru-sama but I have forgotten something I need in the next room. Please with your permission I would retrieve it and return quickly. It would give me great pleasure to serve you completely if you will only allow me to...." She was cut off by his smooth velvety voice. It was deep and very masculine but played with the ears like a gentle sweet song.
"What do you wish to retrieve?" He inquired and made yet another attempt to look behind the curtain of hair. She shifted smoothly again to avoid his look. Exasperated she tried to think of a plausible excuse to leave. She had already promised to return quickly what more did he want.
"There is a part of my....equipment... that I am lost with out. Please if you will excuse me but for a few moments it won't take long to go...."
"Outside?" Her head shot up in surprise. She did not see the smile playing on his lips at her reaction. "Perhaps I could assist you in retrieving this piece of 'equipment'." His voice slid off his tongue like silk. She placed a cool hand on her heated cheek to cool her rising temperature. 'Could he know?' she thought frantically.
"No that is more then I could ask for."
"I am offering. You do not need to ask." He replied flatly.
"Really I would not wish to inconvinience you in this matter." She started to stand when he caught her hand and pulled her ungraciously back down to set next to him. For the first time since he walked in she began to feel that same feeling she had before. Cautiously she looked down at the hand that held her firmly. His skin was pale almost white. There was some kind of swirling maroon tattoo on his wrist that run up under his sleeve. She stared at it in awe for a moment but then noticed his long fingers and at the end there were claws. She fought hard to keep from gasping not sure why they looked like claws but they did. Probably he just didn't clip his fingernails or something. Even that sounded silly to her. Finally he released her and she settled back in her spot. Rattled slightly she began to place the food on a small plate so she could begin to feed him still wondering how she was going to keep her face from being seen with out making a mess on his face. If she didn't look at him she would miss his mouth then what would happen. His voice broke through her self musing.
"How old are you girl?" He asked quietly. The hand that had held her hand gently slid up her arm to her hair. Delicately he swept the loose hair over her shoulder to reveal part of her face. She shied away quickly in reaction. She heard him sigh next to her. "You did not answer me." He stated flatly. She thought she could sense some irritation in his voice.
"I am sixteen almost seventeen Sesshomaru-sama." Frantically she fought her inner conflict to bolt from the room. If she did that she would definitely be beaten. She could feel his fingers running absently through the hair that hung down her back.
"Just a child. How is it that you serve men here girl?" He asked as he stoked her hair. It actually felt rather soothing to her and she felt compelled to answer him.
"I have served men here for three years. I am hardly a child anymore." She all but scoffed at his statement. Embarrassed at his chuckle she tilted her face down feeling ashamed.
"You are still a child and you did not answer my question."
"I am an orphan. I was taken in by Mistress Kaori. It may not seem like much to someone like you but she saved me from a far worse fate I assure you." She tried to sound firm in her conviction but the statement sounded weak in her own ears.
"I see. So you feel this is your salvation then." It was a statement not a question.
"I..I didn't say...that exactly." She could feel her face heating up again from embarrassment.
"Then why do you stay? You may begin feeding me if you wish." Startled into action she placed the plate on the low table in front of him but hesitated to look at him in order to serve him. She was back to square one again. "Why do you hesitate? It is permitted for you to look upon my face." He chuckled at her expense again.
"But it is not permitted for you to look upon mine." Her face flushed knowing she would just have to tell him what she had to get. "I left my veil out by the pond earlier and I must retrieve it before I can serve you any further." She felt like a failure. She was supposed to be the best here but she was failing miserably.
"Oh you must mean this." Before her dangled her veil from that same pale hand. She reached for it but he yanked it back. "No I think I will keep it as a momento for my visit here." He chuckled again. She was becoming very annoyed at that chuckle of his. She glanced at it setting in his lap. His hands were busy feeding himself from the plate she had put in front of him. Which again she had failed to do because of her stupidity. Her fingers fidgeted in her lap while she thought of what to do.
With a sudden effort she reached out to grab it but he was very quick and snatched it up in his left hand away from her. Cursing under her breath she glanced at it again less concerned about hiding her face and more focused on getting the veil back. The damn thing was dangled mere inches from her shoulder. As quick as she could she lunged for it but only managed to embarrass herself further by ending up sprawled across his lap. His chest rumbled with laughter. She placed both hands on her face trying to figure out just what she was doing. This whole thing was one big mistake. She would end up paying with a harsh beating and a cut in food ration if this was not salved before the main dinner arrived.
"I am pleased that you are enjoying yourself but I really need that veil back. You don't understand. If they see me with out it I will be in terrible trouble." She pouted on the verge of tears. His laughter subsided some then she felt his hand rub her back.
"Do not weep child I am only playing with you. Of course you may have it back. This Sesshomaru does not keep things that are not his." He chuckled again. She was really starting to hate that chuckle. "But first you must tell me why you have to wear a veil." His voice was insistent.
"Because my appearance is less then desirable Sesshomaru-sama. Now may I have my vei...."
"Show me." He blurted out.
"I...uhh...would not want to offend you with my ugliness my lord please just give the damn thing to me and I can continue to server you as you wish."
"Don't be silly. I have seen the ugliness of a battle field. Your face could not be as ugly as that." He mused at her. "Besides it is what I wish and you must serve me." He added quickly. She was ready to smack him when he chuckled at her sigh of defeat. Yes she definitely hated that chuckle of his. Reluctantly she allowed him to ease her to a setting position on his lap instead of laying there. She felt a gentle finger try to pry her hands away from her face. "Come girl there is no harm. Even the most hideous scar would not scare me or fill me with disgust. Now release your hands." His voice had lost the merriment and turned more serious. Keeping her eyes closed she let his fingers pull her hands free from her face then when she heard him gasp she turned away ashamed for letting him see her horrid face. Tears began to fall down her face silently. She threw herself forward so she could gain her footing and retreat into the safety of her bed chambers but he held her firmly with an arm around her waist.
"I told you it was too much. Please let me leave. I can't....bear to hear the remarks again. Please...I beg you...." She whimpered softly. Her heart broken voice pleaded with him to release her from her torture. This to her was worse then being beaten. Most of the serving girls there had seen her with out the veil and it didn't seem to bother them. But a customer who could ruin the business by vicious rumors was too much. She let the tears fall even when he crushed her to his chest hushing her. He suddenly shoved the veil in her hand.
"Put it on quickly." He all but threw her on the zabuton next to him and continued to rub her back. Just as she placed the last comb under her hair to hide her face completely the shoji slid open. In stepped a servant girl with a tray of food and a smiling Mistress right on her heals. The pretty smile of the Mistress faded when she noticed a half eaten plate of appetizers still setting on the table in front of the guest. Then she noticed the girl shudder from a sob that was being held back as Sesshomaru-sama rubbed her back. Frowning she looked at the girl with narrowed eyes. Then clearing her voice she plastered a forced smile across her lips.
"Sesshomaru-sama if you would please excuse us for a moment I will attend to the Lady's needs while the servant is setting your meal on the table." She bowed low and motioned for the young geisha to follow her into her bed chambers. The door slammed behind her startling her. She glanced up at the Mistress who quickly grabbed her by the wrist and drug her to the far side of the room where she commenced in berating her for her behavior. When she tried to explain what happened she was met with a sharp slap to the face that was hard enough it knocked her to the floor. She watched the door with desperate eyes wishing this to be over quickly. The Mistress kicked her in the ribs insisting she pay attention. She stifled the cry of pain by biting her lip as yet again she was slapped back down to the floor when she tried to set back up. This time she felt blood in her mouth and knew that it had split her lip.
After another smack to her head the Mistress stormed over to the door. The older woman glared at her with threatening eyes that told her this was her last chance so she nodded that she understood. Sliding the door back gently the Mistress ushered her to take her seat next to Sesshomaru. She glided across the room toward him quickly. She could feel his concern but refused to look into his face. Instead she focused her eyes on the obi around his waist as she kneeled on the zabuton next to him.
"No need for concern Sesshomaru-sama. Mistress has helped me through my problem. Please relax yourself and I will continue to serve you as you wish." She tried to sound as convincing as possible. He turned and looked at the Mistress who had that fake smile plastered on her face again. Frowning he took the settled back in his seat and said nothing. He paused for a moment while he waited for the Mistress to leave the room with the servant girl then looked at her. She could feel his intense gaze upon her just like before when he was by the pond. He was the one there she was sure of it now with out even asking. How else would he come across her veil?
Soft fingers lifted her chin to face him and for the first time she took in his face. Just as the servant girl had said it was the face of an angel. Her breath caught in her chest when she stared into those beautiful golden eyes. He was truly breath taking. Any of the women here would have been much better at serving such a man. She was not worthy of his attentions. Feelings of failure filled her heart and she turned her gaze away.
"Why do you turn from me?" He asked with agitation in his voice.
"Mistress was right, I am unworthy of you my lord. You should have someone more fitting your station then myself. I am worthless to one such as you." A tear slipped down her cheek but she made no move to stop it. "If you wish I will request one now." She started to stand but he placed a hand on her shoulder.
"What I wish is for you to stop hiding from me. Remove the veil." He ordered. His voice was still dripping with aggravation. She glanced at the door once but he stood quickly and walked over to lock it. Once it was securely locked he returned to his seat and looked at her expectantly. A tear slipped down her cheek again. She was trying hard to regain her composure. Why was he being so difficult? None of the others cared to see her face. They were satisfied with her services and left it at that. With a sigh he reached forward and removed the combs that held the veil in place. She closed her eyes tight believing they would cause revulsion in his eyes. Who would want to look into lifeless eyes?
The fist thing she felt was his tender touch on her lips when his thumb ran over her bottom lip. She didn't even realize she was trembling but now she could feel it against his steady touch. Suddenly she felt what she assumed was his tongue lick the tears on her cheeks then it ran along her jaw and settled on her lips sucking the blood from her split lip gently. The wetness was warm and inviting. Slowly he cleaned the blood that had seeped from the split in her lip caused by the Mistress slapping her. It sent shivers down her spine but then he ran it over her mouth before covering her lips with his firm ones.
End of Flashback
When she gasped and leaned back into him he knew it was time to rush the memories to present. He laid her head on his shoulder as he leaned forward kissing her exactly the way he remembered it. Slowly licking her cheeks then along her jaw line before capturing her lips with his.