Chickahominy Creek

Of All Possible Worlds

Chapter 7: Yulei

Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha

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"Yulei?" Nightingale had turned in her seat, leaning forward slightly to get a better look at the demon standing in the corner. Her lips were pursed in a puzzled frown. "The name sounds familiar. I could swear I've heard it before, but I can't recall where."

Sesshoumaru grunted and closer to the group, seating himself on the floor near the coffee table with his feet tucked underneath him. "Yulei was once a miko and one of the rulers of the Eastern Lands."

"Yes, I remember now. I can recall small details, but nothing specific about the woman," replied Nightingale. "She ruled long ago, before you if I recall correctly. Does this—apparition—somehow connect with her?"

"It has everything to do with her." The demon lord sighed. Although their visitors had arrived in the afternoon, the sun was already setting beyond the windowpane, casting shadows around the room. The miko apparently noticed as well, because she pushed the black cat off her lap and got up to turn on the kitchen and living room lights. Much to his disgruntlement, the cat decided that he would act as her next pillow. Tiny forepaws found a place on his thighs before the animal bounded into his lap, turning once before setting down with her eyes studying the rest of the room. Sesshoumaru pointedly ignored her.

The miko returned from the kitchen and the demon watched as she walked back to her place on the couch. She was favoring her left foot as she eased herself into her seat. Sesshoumaru frowned, noticing for the first time that the area has swollen to an angry mix of red and purple. She must have been injured in the attack, but she didn't say anything. He had also been hit by the creature's poison and he could testify that the pain was no small matter. However, his demon body had already recovered from the damage, leaving no marks on his skin. The marks on the miko's foot were severe, and she should have been screaming, which was what he had come to expect from all humans with the exception of his ward, Rin. That child had rarely complained about anything. Instead of crying, however, the miko tucked her injured foot underneath of her and placed a cushion over her legs to hide it from view. Sesshoumaru had to forcefully clamp down on an unexpected emotion that was threatening to override his former opinion of the miko—admiration.

"So, this Yulei was a miko?" The sound of her voice brought the demon lord out of his trance and he mentally shook himself, forcing his eyes to meet the miko's, which were trained firmly on his, a curious look woven into their depths.

The demon lord nodded in confirmation. "Yes. She was a miko and ruler of the Eastern Lands, one of the most powerful women in legend."

The miko seemed puzzled with her eyebrows furrowed and mouth set in a firm line. Sesshoumaru could almost see her mind working from his position on the floor. "I'm afraid I don't follow. If she was a shrine maiden, how could she possibly be ruler of the Eastern Lands? I didn't think it was possible to be both. And if she was both, why weren't the Eastern Lands ruled by miko's when I was there?"

Sesshoumaru shot her back a barbed grin. "I'm surprised you don't know this. Aren't you supposed to be studying myth and history?"

"Well it's not like humans have kept the greatest records on the demon lords of the four lands Sesshoumaru-sama. Perhaps you would care to enlighten the rest of us."

Sesshoumaru was about to reply when the bird demon cut him off. "Enough! We do not have all evening for this discussion. I also know very little about this history and Kagome is right, it is not documented very well."

"I know nothing at all," Soshiro interjected, "so as troublesome as it may be, it would be helpful to start from square one for those of us that are absolutely clueless. Go easy on me though, I'm still trying to absorb all this." The man was glaring daggers and Sesshoumaru knew that he was using his ability to read the auras of everyone in the room. He must have been getting tired because there was a thin sheen of sweat on his brow. Somehow, the human had managed to keep his power active for the duration of the conversation.

"Thank you Soshiro," Nightingale said. "How are you handling this by the way? I'm sure this is a bit more than you bargained for. I'll admit that I somewhat expected the problem falling along these lines, but I feel that I should have prepared you."

The man in question gave the bird demon a carefree grin. "No harm done. Like I said, I know no one in here is lying to me, as hard as that is to believe in itself, and I've dealt with enough odd cases that this has not completely blown me out of the water, though I have to admit, this tops the damn odd list." He blinked once, rubbing his eyes and shaking his head. Yes, the effort to hold up his power was definitely draining him. "No, the fun part is going to be coming up with a report for all this. Hell, I may skip the whole report thing entirely. I don't think I can come up with a logical explanation for this. Anyway, about this Yulei…"

Sesshoumaru cleared his throat. This would be a long explanation as he would have to cover everything. "Yulei's rule was well before mine, and yes, at the time miko's were in control of the Eastern Lands due to the war. At that time, war had broken out between the humans and the demons. Normally, demons were the dominant race on all counts, but humans had the advantage of numbers. Of the demon ruled kingdoms, the South was overwhelmed by their human occupants, the bird demons were forced to heavily wall their largest city and wait them out. The Western and Northern Lands allied themselves and beat the humans back with little problems. Most human armies left intact by the end of the first wave of battles retreated to the East, the only lands that were run entirely by humans. Sometime during the middle of the war, the combined armies of the North and West overran the East's main fortification, killing the royal family that was housed inside. With no other place to turn, the humans handed over leadership to the shrine maidens of Yumeki Village. The head maiden of the shrine at the time was a young miko called Tamoko, the ancestor for Yulei, who became ruler one-hundred and fifty years later."

"The maidens ruled for that long?" asked the miko, who didn't bother to hide the surprise in her voice.

"Yes, and they were extremely formidable. In fact, Yulei was the one who brought the war to a close, though it was by unexpected means. Her reign almost destroyed humans and demons alike."

"I don't understand."

"I'm not entirely sure either, since her history is so scattered, but I would be willing to gamble on the reason having something to do with Yulei becoming a dark miko," Nightingale replied.

"Correct." Sesshoumaru paused for a moment. The miko opened her mouth to say something, but he raised a hand to hold her off. There was more that needed to be said before questions. "Eight years after Naraku's defeat, a tsunami struck the Northern Lands, tearing up the coast. At first, it seemed fortunate that so many lives were spared, but there was something everyone missed. The storm had unearthed more than the land, it had unearthed a seal, shattered it right in half. The seal was located in a small costal village, a place no one had ever heard of with a name I cannot remember. However, soon after the storm, humans and demons alike began falling ill, mysteriously disappeared, or were the victims of malicious slaughter. It was a trail of bodies the likes I have never seen. Eventually, we managed to trace the trail to its first victim—a young girl from the village who had disappeared two days after the storm.

A month after the initial disaster, fires ravaged the Eastern Lands, stealing hundreds of lives. It was around that time that I saw my brother again for the first time since Naraku's defeat. Inuyasha came right up to the Western Palace and demanded my presence." Sesshoumaru smirked at the memory. It was one of the three times he had felt grudging respect for his half-sibling. He could still recall the image of his brother standing in his entrance hall, eyes narrowed but firm, Tetsuaiga in his hand, and several of his own palace guards lying at his feet, bloody but still alive. He had calmly bowed and asked Sesshoumaru to accompany him. The other two instances had been during the battle with Naraku and his final sacrifice before the re-sealing of Yulei—his brother's final battle.

"Inuyasha came to the palace to request my presence in the Eastern Lands," Sesshoumaru continued. "The miko Kikyou claimed that she had the answer to the problems that had been plaguing the four lands. When we arrived, Inuyasha and I met the miko in Inuyasha Forest along with Kouga of the wolf tribe and the three other members of the team that had initially set off after Naraku…"

Sesshoumaru followed his brother into the clearing where a fire blazed strongly enough to illuminate the faces of those who stood in the vicinity, casting shadows just as efficiently as it kept them at bay. He was not surprised at the current group gathered within the light—it was similar to the one he had fought alongside eight years ago.

Leaning against a tree was the monk, Miroku, with the demon slayer in his arms tucked safely under his chin. His legs were stretched out in front of him, one hand casually twirling a black strand of hair that had fallen from the bindings in his lover's hair. Sango was curled up comfortably against him with her knees resting on his lap, murmuring something in his ear that Sesshoumaru couldn't catch despite his demon enhanced hearing. The monk nodded and pulled her closer. Both looked tired and if the deep circles under both sets of eyes were any indication, neither had slept in several days.

Near them was the young demon kitsune that had accompanied the group, though he most certainly could no longer be called a kit. Shippo was standing on the far side of the fire, standing against a tree. His face had lost its child-like roundness and had reformed into the sharp angles his species was so know for. Hair that had been barely long enough to be pulled back before was now held easily behind the nape of his neck, red strands falling over his shoulders. Upon moving closer, Sesshoumaru was also able to pick out a new scar that ran from his left cheek straight to the jaw-line. It further took away from his formerly innocent look. The demon fox was still thin, though almost as tall as the Western Lord himself. He did not look very strong, but the way that he was tossing around the knife in his hand hinted at agility and skill that more than made up for power— he would not be totally useless in a fight. Rumor had it that he had improved his demon capabilities as well.

As far as personality, Kouga hadn't changed at all. He was sitting nearest the fire, grumbling about something or other. It was likely that he would still pick a fight with little provocation and it was still impossible for the wolf demon to remain still for more than a few minutes as he constantly shifted. However, it was apparent that time had not been kind to his pack, especially with recent events. The wolf clan lived primarily off the land, and with the situation being what it was, hunting was scarce. Kouga looked thin and slightly haggard. His eyes had sunken a bit and there were lines on his youthful face that had not been there a few years ago. The fire cast deep hollows in his cheeks and accented the tiredness in eyes that were not quite as alert as they had once been. He looked older than his age. Pain had added a century to his face.

Kikyou looked—exactly as Sesshoumaru remembered. She was the closest to them welcoming her lover into the clearing with open arms. Whereas the years showed on everyone else in the group, the miko showed none of it; he wasn't sure that age could show on her face. The demon lord was not sure how to classify the miko, a woman once dead and brought back to life. Her hair was still a glossy black that equaled the darkness of the eyes that peered at him over Inuyasha's shoulder. She was still a tiny figure with a hint of unimaginable power just underneath the surface. The only difference he could detect was a smile that had not been there before, a welcoming heat that Sesshoumaru found himself surprisingly accepting.

"Thank you for coming Sesshoumaru," Kikyou said softly after pulling herself out of Inuyasha's arms. She bowed deeply.

"I know that the past months have not been any easier on you than they have been on us. I'm sure you have much to take care of in the Western Lands."

The Lord of the Western Lands nodded, offering the shrine maiden a very slight bow of recognition. "Everyone is gathered around the fire," Kikyou continued. "I wish to begin the explanation as soon as possible, but if you would prefer to rest a moment before we begin…"

"That will not be necessary," replied the demon. "I would like to know why I have been summoned."

"Of course. Please, make yourself comfortable." Kikyou led the way back to the fire, motioning for everyone else to gather close to the flames. When everyone was easily within hearing distance, the miko drew a chord out from around her neck, parting the collar of her robes slightly to reveal the Jewel of Four Souls. She looked out over the sea of faces briefly and then closed her eyes, cupping the jewel between her folded hands. Kikyou stood motionless for several moments, during which no one made a sound. Sesshoumaru thought that she seemed to be listening to something that no one else could hear.

Eventually, the demon's eyes were drawn to her hands as a pale light began to shine through. As if in a trance, the miko stepped forward and moved closer to the flames, holding her hands outward. When there was only a hairs-breath between her skin and the fire, she released her burden. A light brighter than the blaze of new dawn drowned the area in an inferno bright enough to force Sesshoumaru to shield his eyes.

When he felt confident enough to open them, he nearly jumped in shock. Staring back at the group through the flames was the face of a human woman he did not recognize. Her eyes were wide and gave him the impression of vast knowledge as they swept over every person gathered. The lips were full and gracious; ready to smile just as readily as frown. Her features were soft and noble with arched brows and a small nose.

Although he could not identify the woman, he heard several whispers of "Midoriko." The name he knew—the miko had summoned the guardian of the Jewel of Four Souls.

"The troubles you have experienced these past days have been harsh, but I have come to warn all assembled that they will not improve unless she is killed." Midoriko's voice rang out through the flames and echoed through the clearing. Though it was only an image of the dead miko, Sesshoumaru still felt the demon blood within him shudder. The woman had been dead for generations, but any demon in the vicinity would still recognize the power that still shimmered within that voice. The same power that drew thousands of demons to seek their deaths by chasing after the jewel.

"The catalyst of these disasters lies with one woman. Something that was once sealed has been let loose. Her name is Yulei. It is true that most people are familiar with Yulei as the last miko ruler of the Eastern Lands and a dark miko. However, her power goes far beyond what you can imagine. Yulei is driven by vengeance against humans and demons alike. However, in order to get rid of her, you must understand her. You must hear her story to realize what she is after.

During that great war, Yulei inherited the throne of the Eastern Lands. She ruled well and proved to be a strong figure to her subjects. Under her, the Eastern Lands finally managed to regain some of the land lost by her predecessor. Feeling the strain of losses, the Northern Lands sent an assassin to kill the ruler in her bed.

The assassin, Yuuki of the Water Tribe, was a member of the royal family's extensive defense network and well trained, the best the north had to offer. He managed to sneak into the village and pass through the wards and into the miko's sleeping chambers. He was prepared to slit her throat, but before he could do commit himself, something stayed his hand—the face of the sleeping woman. Not only was Yulei the most powerful woman alive, but she was also the most beautiful. Thousands hailed her as the beautiful woman in the land. With her long, straight black hair, pale features, delicate limbs and haunting summer eyes, she was starlight given form, and for most men, just as distant. She was welcomed everywhere, because it was for her the sun shown, for her the wind blew. The meeting between Yuuki and Yulei may have come to nothing. Yuuki may have killed her where she lay or he may have let her go. However, before her killer could make a decision, Yulei opened her green eyes. Needless to say, it was love at first sight.

The two lovers met in secret for years as war raged around them. Their armies faced each other in battle, but at least once a week, Yuuki would find a way to the Eastern Lands and into Yulei's bed. Each night, the miko would wait for him by her window, hoping that he would come to her. Those were happy days for the couple and as their relationship moved on, battles between those two nations dwindled. Then, there was one week when Yuuki didn't come. A week turned to two, then three, then months. Finally, Yulei received words via one of her messengers that the assassin Yuuki of the Water Tribe had been murdered by his own people on Eastern Lands—hunted down and killed.

Without her lover, Yulei fell deeply into depression until it eventually turned destructive. Unforgiving of both races, she began her vengeance on anyone involved in the war. Slowly, the ruler of the Eastern Lands wasted away in her grief until she eventually died. Unfortunately, at this time, Yulei was also the guardian of the Jewel of Four Souls. The jewel turned dark in her hands, and it amplified her power tenfold. Her soul did not rest as she chose a host and murdered thousands. She gathered followers, people who wanted power, and wrecked havoc. Crops withered and died, plague ran rampant, and hundreds of wars broke out throughout the four lands.

Ironically, these dire circumstances were the only thing able to bond the four lands. Almost a year after Yulei's death, her younger sister, Mai, took the throne and summoned the rulers of the other lands to her in peace. A powerful miko in her own right, she suggested a method to seal her sister's power using the very jewel that she used to spread her misery. Individually, the rulers of the four lands are powerful and capable of immense magic as they are the conduits of energy for the lands they guard. However, together their power was immense. By combining the strength of all four lands and amplifying its energy using the jewel, it was possible to seal Yulei for what everyone thought was eternity at the cost of Mai's life.

In the battle against Yulei, the four lands worked as a united force for the first, and only, time in history and the funeral honoring Mai was attended by thousands.

Unfortunately, Yulei's seal has been released. You must find her host and once again bind her using the Jewel of Four Souls. This time, however, you will not have the full power of the four lands, but it is possible that the swords Tetsuaiga and Tenseiga in combination with the jewel's power may be enough. It is your best hope…

"We found the host quickly enough, but the cost was heavy. The final battle was in the forest," said Sesshoumaru. "I watched Kouga fall, followed quickly by my brother, though not before critically wounding her. As they died, their souls were sucked away by Yulei, fueling her power. Rin, my ward, was dying in my arms before I set her down to seal Yulei with the help of Kikyou. Rin had died protecting me, taking an attack that should have cost me my life. I do not know what happened after that other than a green flash of light that was supposed to have been Yulei's final attack. I assume that both the miko and I died in order to give enough energy to the bindings. The last attack must have never hit, either that or it was too late to do her any good."

Sesshoumaru fell silent and no one made a sound. By this time, there was no light shining through the windows, but his companions probably didn't notice. Somewhere in the middle of the tale, Soshiro lost his searching look and was now staring wide-eyed at the demon lord, lips slightly parted. Nightingale had huddled into the corner of her chair with her knees drawn up to her chest. Her eyes had a sheen over them as they filled with unshed tears, but she said nothing. The miko only looked confused and he could feel the heat of her eyes on his face.

"I'm assuming that Yulei has already found a host and has been feeding off human energy, but if she wants more, she is going to need to take demon lives," Sesshoumaru said. He was still sitting calmly in his seat on the floor, although his hand was now rubbing absently over the fur of the cat in his lap. "It is also likely that she is looking for the Jewel of Four Souls, as it would greatly aid her in her endeavors." He turned his attention to the miko. "Would you know where it is in this world?"

The miko shook her head. "No. I'm sorry but I have no idea. The last time I saw it was when Kikyou was ripping it from my neck."

"Then I shall start looking."

"We shall start looking," corrected Nightingale. Sesshoumaru fixed her with a harsh stare, but the bird demon simply glared right back. "I am as much concerned about this as you, and you know perfectly well that if Yulei manages to get into demon lands, everything is only going to get worse."

"Don't count me out." Soshiro moved from his place at the counter and came to stand at the table with everyone else. "Not only is it my job to protect everyone from the dead witch, but my ability to see auras will probably be useful. She's going after people with powerful auras and I may be able to identify targets before they become food."

"Are you sure?" Nightingale asked. "This doesn't have to be your battle."

"Positive."

Sesshoumaru wasn't thrilled about allowing the man to help. If anything, he would probably end up in the way. "I'm not going to be watching your back," he told him.

"I'm perfectly capable of watching my own," Soshiro replied.

Somehow, the demon lord doubted that. Against another human maybe, but against this—that would remain to be seen. "We will also need you miko. As far as I know, you're the only one able to sense the jewel."

The miko didn't say anything for a moment. He could tell by the look on her face that she didn't want to get into this, but finally, she too nodded in confirmation. "I suppose I don't have choice. Not only can I sense the jewel, but it also looks like I'm a target. She's either after my energy or my abilities. I guess I'd rather fight back than sit here calmly."

"Now that that's decided, I think our next should be to make our way back to the Otherworld," said Nightingale. "I get the sense that we do not have much time before Yulei manages to break through to that realm." Sesshoumaru nodded. At the rate she was going, it would possible before the next cycle of the moon. "We shouldn't wait. When Yulei breaks through, she'll have access to a huge well of energy. There's no telling what she'll do and we have to warn the demon lands."

Soshiro frowned and pinned Nightingale with a hard stare. "Are you saying that we should just leave this world defenseless?"

The bird demon reached for one of his hands, grasping it firmly. "I understand how that sounds, but she will not remain here for long anyway, and it's doubtful that we would be able to stop her before she took a life. At best, we could only deal with the consequences. It's likely that we won't be able to prevent her from taking demon lives either." She sounded regretful and for the first time that evening, a little afraid.

"Our only chance is finding the Jewel of Four Souls before she does and sealing her," Sesshoumaru confirmed. Soshiro bit his bottom lip and closed his eyes, but at last hung his head, still shaking slightly. "Then we find that jewel and get rid of her quickly."

"As soon as we can," Nightingale said softly.

"How are we supposed to get there," the miko asked. "Don't we need to find a gate?"

"We leave the same way I got in," Nightingale replied. "I know the identity of one guardian and although it may be difficult to convince him, we can try to see if he'll let us through." She looked out the window, obviously trying to gauge the time. "However, I think we've all had enough for one night. Why don't we make that trip tomorrow if it's alright with you two?" She glanced at Soshiro. "Perhaps Soshiro and I can meet you here at the same time?"

Surprisingly, the miko glanced at Sesshoumaru, her face asking if he would be ready at such a time. He was slightly surprised that she would even bother trying to consult him, but he allowed it to slide. "That is acceptable," replied the demon.

"Good." Nightingale released Soshiro's hand and began gathering up her instrument, rising from her seat. Soshiro waved and started towards the door. He held it open and turned back towards Nightingale, waiting for the bird demon.

"I'll meet you by the car Soshiro, there's one last thing I want to discuss with Sesshoumaru-sama. It won't take long." Soshiro grumbled something that sounded like "no problem," and moved away, shoving his hands in the back pockets of his jeans. The door swung back and closed loudly behind him. The miko's gaze altered between the two demons for a moment before she tossed her pillow aside and rose, moving in the direction of her office without a word.

Sesshoumaru also stood, pushing away the cat that had remained on his lap for the duration of the conversation. There was no way he would remain seated while another occupant of the room was standing.

"The gate that we are going through will take us to the Western Lands," Nightingale said when she was sure that they were alone. "I'm sure that you don't need me to tell you this, but you must make an appearance at the Western court. I just…you should be warned that many things have changed since then. I don't want to go into detail because there are things you should see for yourself in order to understand, but you need to know that they have waited a long time for your return."

My return? Sesshoumaru let the shock roll over him, feeling his breath hitch slightly at the though. How could they possibly have predicted his return? For that matter, how was it possible that there was a ruler of the Western Lands? He had fathered no children and even Inuyasha, the only other person who could have inherited the title of Lord of the Western Lands, died before he could produce offspring.

Nightingale smiled, having sensed his tension. "There is a regent who currently claims the title," she said softly, answering the unspoken question. "Although the people have been more than willing to officially give rule to the family, each one has remained adamant about retaining the title of regent only. They have waited for you Lord of the Western Lands."

Just when he thought the shock couldn't get any worse, it became a storm. His mind was running faster than the winds that crossed the skies. A regent? Which family could possibly claim the title? He could not think of a single person close to him that would be qualified. And not only qualified, but apparently capable of fathering a dynasty. No one in their right mind would have waited so long.

"I simply ask that you keep an open mind," Nightingale continued. "Look beyond your first impression. I think ultimately, you'll be very proud." The bird demon moved to follow her companion out the door. "Tomorrow Sesshoumaru-sama."

When the door closed behind her, Sesshoumaru fell back onto the chair, trying to take in everything at once. Even for him, it was a bit overwhelming. Although he didn't care for humans and he had never set foot in this new Otherworld, a large part of him did not want the terror he had lived through to happen again. He had been a strong and almost unforgiving leader, but even he condoned mass suffering. And if his own kind were still around… Would it be possible for him to leave them to their fate? If what Nightingale said was true and the Western Lands were waiting for his return, then were they not still his responsibility?

He leaned forward and rested his head in his hands, pale strands of hair falling around his face like a gossamer veil. Already the swirl of thoughts was causing a massive headache. Of course, he could always ignore the problem and allow both worlds to perish. He had already fought once and he was tired. Not battle weary, never that, but tired of the constant bombardment of problem after problem. Of being plucked out of his familiar surrounds and shoved into a place and time he never imagined possible.

Surprisingly, his thoughts led to the miko in the other room. Accepting everything meant working closely with her. Despite their constant state of disagreement however, she had accepted another life and death situation without much complaint. She had been attacked twice and during the second, had actually fought back with enough power to drive her opponent back. He could still recall how she looked standing in the doorway to the washroom earlier that morning. Her dark eyes had been tinted slightly with the same pink that hovered in a cloud around her body. She had been a predator then: mouth set in a firm line, hand pointed forward, eyes on the target. Yes, she was human, but he was finally beginning to remember that this was the same human who helped beat Naraku into the ground. Her power was nothing compared to that of many full demons', but she wasn't easy prey either.

Then, during the discussion, she had been accepting and willing to work without putting up a fight. She had worked with him.

Sesshoumaru groaned inwardly. As much as he didn't like it, he would have to at least be civil to the miko until they got the jewel. There was no way he could find it without her, though he would never admit to that, and having to prod her every second in order to get her to follow commands would only waste time they didn't have. It would be difficult, but if she could make the effort, then so would he.

At that moment, he recalled the injury to her ankle. His wounds had already healed fully, but he had no doubt that the poison still troubled her greatly. The amount of energy she had used to defeat the creature earlier had been immense and he knew that she would not have enough to take care of the wound herself until the next morning. Unfortunately, he needed her at her strongest tomorrow. He had no idea what they would be up against with this guardian or in the Otherworld.

There was a light on in the miko's office. The demon lord focused on it for a second and then got up, moving toward the closed door.

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Kagome sat at her desk, staring at her computer screen. She had come to her office in an attempt to finish up the chapter she was working on for her latest book, but hadn't been able to type a word. The only light in the room was the small overhead light by her computer, most of the illumination coming from a half moon that peered through the glass of the open window. The dim light reflected how she felt perfectly—trapped. Just when she was getting her life back together, when her career was looking up and she had established a strong foundation. She felt like a sapling that had just been uprooted, torn and broken. The past was coming back again, though she thought that it had given up the hunt once she had been shoved back into the well and returned to the present.

She hit her desk in frustration, staring at the blinking cursor on the screen. Why the hell did the past deem her worthy of such trouble? Why turn her life upside-down every time there was a problem? She didn't care if she was the reincarnation of some long dead tragic miko. She didn't care about that situation making her the guardian of one of the most powerful objects in the world. What she wanted was a normal life, to be able to write to her heart's content, maybe find a boyfriend and settle down. Perhaps teach a few classes at the local college.

Except that she could not—would not. She did not like being Kikyou's reincarnation, but she was. She was the guardian of the Jewel of Four Souls and capable of finding it before Yulei. Millions would die if she failed, and she could not live with that on her conscious. She had not dared to say no during the discussion, because the consequences would be too great. Yes, she would work with Sesshoumaru, Nightingale, and Soshiro. She would put her life on hold yet again, would use the miko powers that she could still feel swirling within her.

Kagome rubbed her eyes and pushed her keyboard underneath her desk. There was no way she was getting anything else written today. Instead, she moved her mouse to 'print' and selected what little she had managed to put down so far. She would be able to read over it in the morning. She was about to get up when an alert popped up on the screen: "paper tray empty."

No way, I just refilled it two days ago. There's no way I went through that much paper in such a short amount of time.

She reached over and pulled out the paper tray. Sure enough, there was nothing there. Grumbling, she yanked a new pack from the drawer next to her and opened it up, laying it in the tray so that she could try again. She slammed the door shut and sighed. Great, now things were turning up missing in action. Who in their right mind would want her printer paper? Then again, maybe no one wanted it. Maybe her computer paper was in the same place as the missing socks she swore she put in the dryer, or old Miss Chiya's keys. Kagome saw the woman downstairs in the landlord's office at least once a week, her old back bent over his desk as she asked for a new set because her old one had suddenly turned up missing.

Maybe it's leprechauns or pixies Kagome snorted, smiling a little. Yeah, I could set a trap for them and make them give everything back. The idea was laughable, but it would explain where all her paper had gone. But then again, who was she to say what was laughable? She was going to a Japanese Otherworld the next morning into a land infested by demons and who knows what else. Suddenly, leprechauns and pixies didn't seem so ridiculous. Worse, they seemed normal.

She had just clicked the print button again when the door to her office swung open. Sesshoumaru stood in the doorway, staring at her from between the frame. Kagome felt a shiver run up her spine and her mouth dropped into a little 'o' of surprise as she stared at him. The situation reminded her of the night he arrived, standing before her in moonlight. Strands of thin light played haphazardly in rosin colored eyes, giving them an unearthly glow not unlike a cat's in the dark. His face was firm, but lacked the murderous hints that had been present that night. Both swords were sheathed, but he still carried himself in a manner that was alert and ready to move at any moment—Tokajin could be in his hand in less time it would take for her to draw breath. His steps were measured and even, full of purpose.

Part of her was terrified and she had trouble breathing. Her mind was telling her to run, to put up some kind of defense with her miko powers, but she couldn't move. She suddenly had a very good idea of what it was like for prey to look into the eyes of a wolf, to see its death in those eyes. She knew her own eyes had widened in an attempt to take him in and find a means of escape.

Part of her wanted to run, but another part was telling her that the tightness in her chest wasn't entirely the fault of terror.

He stopped when he stood over her, towering over he like a great oak. She thought that he might have been looking for something the way he was studying her and she had to force herself not to squirm. Kagome could not imagine what he would disturb her for, but she was not at all prepared for what came out of his mouth. "Let me see your foot miko."

Kagome swallowed. "Excuse me?"

"Your ankle. It was injured during the fight this morning. Let me look at it."

She sputtered for a moment before replying, still trying to find a grasp on words. "Why? I can take care of it myself."

The demon lord's eyes narrowed. He was getting seriously annoyed. "Yes, you can," he said evenly, "but not for a few more hours yet and when you do it will drain you. There is poison in the wound; it will not be easy to heal. It will resist all your efforts. Why suffer when I can take care of it now? You were limping earlier."

He was right of course. The burn on her leg hurt like hell, she couldn't deny that. Sesshoumaru nodded and to her surprise, knelt down and grabbed her injured ankle, setting it on his thigh. She gasped when she felt his fingers probe the purpled and swollen flesh, wincing slightly at the contact. Despite the pain, she was surprised to see that he was actually trying to be gentle as he turned her ankle in his palm, studying it closely. The thought of the Lord of the Western Lands being gentle sent her mind through another loop. She didn't even think he was capable of being gentle, yet here they were with her leg on his thigh, his fingers just barely glancing over her skin.

He stopped abruptly and shifted his gaze to her face. "Relax miko, I'm not going to hurt you and I can't work when you're this tensed. I've done this with Rin more times than you can imagine. The foolish little human injured herself more times than I ever thought possible. A thorn in the side, but nevertheless…"

Kagome couldn't have been more shocked. What he said regarding his ward had been harsh, yet if she wasn't mistaken, she thought she had heard something more in his voice—there had been warmth there. Looking back, she thought she had seen a certain shadow pass over the demon lord when he had spoken of the little girl's death. Given the circumstances, it was actually possible to pity him.

Sesshoumaru's concentration shifted back to her leg, but instead of poking at her wound again, he began running his hand along her calf, massaging muscles lightly as he made his way to her knee and back down again. The ministrations had her melting into a puddle in her chair as tension left her little by little. His hand was warm and soothing, barely placing pressure on her skin. Kagome felt her eyelids fall against her will and although she had been guarded earlier, she found herself allowing the demon to continue to do as he pleased.

After several minutes, his hand left her and she sat up a little, but he didn't move. Instead, he raised the same hand to his mouth and bit down. Kagome watched as fangs punctured the skin and she jumped when blood started rolling down his hand. "Don't tense up again miko. I didn't loosen those muscles for nothing," he said, moving his hand away. "I have a poison in my blood that is strong enough to nullify what Yulei's puppet put in you. It will hurt, but it will get rid of the poison. The pain will only last for a moment."

With those words, he returned his hand to her ankle. Kagome cried out and immediately clamped down on her lip when the blood made contact with the wound. It felt like the burn was being made all over again and she couldn't hold back the tears that slid from her eyes and down her cheeks. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she could feel the demon's firm grip on her ankle, but the blood was like acid on her skin. She could feel herself sweating beneath her robe and her hands clenched the arm rests of the chair in an attempt to ease the pain.

She felt Sesshoumaru shift his grip from her foot to her knee and before she could cry out again, she felt his lips against the wound. She gasped again, but this time in surprise as she felt his cool mouth moving over her skin, lapping up the remained of the blood. He drank it like a fine wine, just barely making contact but replacing the pain with cool relief. It was like aloe on a burn and Kagome found herself slowly beginning to relax again. Hair softer than flower petals brushed against her leg, sliding against it with every slight movement he made. Every so often, she could feel the slight brush of his fangs, but the sharp objects that had torn so easily through his skin never punctured hers. He lifted her foot slightly to gain better access, bringing it to his mouth as if to taste some kind of delicacy.

Kagome felt her body returning to the puddle state he had created earlier and let her eyes close. She had intended to simply relax, but as Sesshoumaru continued, she allowed blackness and the stress of the day to take over and lead her to sleep.

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Sesshoumaru pulled back from the miko and looked at his work with satisfaction. The skin was still a little red, but that would clear up by morning. He doubted she would have a scar.

He carefully placed the miko's foot on the floor and stood up. She had fallen asleep during the procedure, and her body had sunken into the chair. Black hair fell over her shoulders and nearly hid her face as her chin rested against her chest. The dark black of her hair made her skin, paler from illness, stark white in contrast. He was tempted to allow her to sleep in the chair, but to have her wake up in pain after healing her seemed extremely counter productive.

Sighing, he scooped her up in his arms and carried her to the room next door, being careful as he maneuvered through the doorways to avoid hitting her foot. Although her bedroom was a mess and items were scattered all over the floor, the bed itself was clear and all the remnants of the creature had disappeared with the miko's earlier attack.

Sesshoumaru set her down gently and pulled back the covers on the other side. He slid her in and then wrapped them securely around her. The miko had not awoken once during the entire trip. He stood over her for a moment and watched her steady breathing, his look contemplative. Finally, he left the room, closing the door behind him. Even he would sleep this night. If the events of the day were anything to go by, then tomorrow would prove interesting.

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Because I feel like it:

Character Profile 1: Kagome Higurashi

Name: Kagome Higurashi

Place of Birth: Tokyo Japan, 20th Century

Age: 23

Race: Human/Miko

Occupation: Writer

Weapon of Choice: Bow and Arrow, Miko Powers

Current Status: The author of A Feudal Fairytale, Kagome has come to enjoy great prestige as a writer and historian specializing in ancient legends of the world. However, the book, which she claims is a work of fiction, actually recounts her own journeys in the feudal era. Since the well has closed, Kagome has not been the same woman. Although she appears to have gotten over her losses and recovered her life, she still has periods of depression. Now, her life is coming down on top of her as she finds the past catching up with her present to intervene once again in the form of her lost love's older brother. She reluctantly sets off once again to find the Jewel of Four Souls, an object which has controlled her life since the day she fell through the well. On the plus side, perhaps a new journey will produce a sequel for her beloved readers.