CHAPTER 30: The Emperors New Clothes

Slowly opening his heavy eyes, Naraku quickly mourned the end of his dream weave with Kagome. It suddenly occurred to him that it was a lot more difficult for him to maintain their world this time around. Almost as if he hadn't the talent for it, which was asinine because it was a skill he took pride in at one time. Then again he was no longer what he was, so perhaps it was a skill that was easier for his former self due to the sorcery involved and the many dark entities that once inhabited his person.

Though it was a little off putting he supposed that it wasn't exactly a skill that he'd require any longer. As he rose from his futon he rolled his shoulders, rubbed his face, and for the second time almost took out his eyes on his claws.

Damned things were going to take some getting used to.

He considered cutting them off for a moment before he realized how unfeasible it would be seeing they'd probably just grow back with the day. A stray thought somehow entered his mind about neko youkai, and he wondered if their claws were as retractable as well.

Amused at himself for his idle thoughts Naraku smiled slightly at himself as he rose to his full height and began his morning ritual. Once he was done primping and washing he went promptly to hide in his closet.

Strange thing it was that he, the once power mad hanyo was now literally hiding from the spotlight.

No matter, it is simply a means to an end he rationalized as he called out his last puppet. Today would be a busy day and he needed to get everything into place as soon as possible.

Naraku speedily synchronized with the puppet and made it to go to his usual sitting room completely forgetting about how he recently destroyed it.

'Well damn. How foolish of me to forget I redecorated my favorite parlor room. Hmm, then again perhaps I can make use of this unsettling environment.'

After a moment of contemplation the once kumo hanyo decided it was the perfect setting for a meeting with his minions. The puppet took a seat behind the broken desk cloaked itself in malice and shrouded darkness. He commanded the saimyosho to summon his detachments and Kohaku to arrive immediately.

All that was left to do was wait.

'I suppose after this little get together is over I should prepare to meet with my Kagome. This is so very taxing suddenly. Playing the villain used to be my whole purpose for living and yet now it feels so uncomfortable. Who knew that I would change so dramatically. Then again it is interesting to note that there are also things that haven't changed. I still like being groomed. I am just as confident and if I am honest dramatic.'

His thoughts were put on hold for another time as he sensed his minions approaching. They'd all arrived relatively quickly this time around and was pleased at how they all surveyed the room with a feeling of foreboding.

'This is it now, time to put my final plan into play and secure my new future. I shall free myself from my past and perhaps every one else as well.' He thought as he looked at all of his underlings.

They too would have a future free of his tyranny. He'd not only unleashed his evil nature upon his enemies, but he was merciless to his allies all the same. He'd tortured Kagura, neglected Kanna, beaten Hakudoshi to the point of death many times and even brain washed Kohaku into slaughtering his entire village and family. Happiness was something he was undeserving of, but he would take it and do what he could to share it with others starting with the creatures he himself created as well as with the lost man-child.

Not putting off this meeting any longer the puppet squared his shoulders and gave out his last speech as Naraku.

"I have decided that I tire of this game of cat and mouse between myself and that damned band of miscreants. It is time to secure my throne in Nippon. Soon they will all die and shortly after the world will fall down before me." A fierce sneer spread across his lips as he continued. "My previous plans have been compromised thanks to an elusive rat. He thinks to destroy all that which I've so painstakingly and meticulously planned. However he will see his folly and in the end will find himself choking on death." Looking at all of them one-by-one, the puppet smiled cruelly and continued. "Gather close to me children, it's time to receive your orders." It said with out-raised arms and an evil smile; the promise of destruction written all over its aura.

When it was all said and done Naraku sighed as he directed his puppet back to his quarters.

'This whole ordeal is quite tiresome. None the less I should count myself quite fortunate that soon the charade will be finally over.'

Knowing that he'd just set in motion the chain of events that would lead to his former life's downfall he was filled with apprehension. There was a 98% chance that all would go according to plan and Kagome's group followed his lead. If not it could get a lot more complicated and lower their success rate to 49% and that was absolutely unacceptable. This whole strategy was dependent on her ability to reason with the Inutachi and Sesshomaru and though he trusted her it still left him feeling bereft.

He was used to being in charge. Totally. Without question. That was going to have to change wit the current line up on Alpha Males that would be involved in this whole debacle. Inuyasha, Sesshomaru, and the human also has an Alpha personality. That little fox has even risen to alpha status, but somehow they all put aside their need to dominate the group and allow all to have a say. Then again the demon Lord isn't truly among their group and he typically leads when he is around them. Their dynamic truly was giving the newly born Hinotori a headache and he hadn't even joined their group yet. Regardless, he was willing to deal with them all just to make the future possible.

'Oh Kagome, soon we'll be able to truly belong to one another; that is if you are able to leash all of your dogs…including that incessant wolf pup.'

Once the puppet was safely back inside of his chambers and he was sure everyone had left to do his bidding Naraku took a moment to think. He was not looking forward to this evening but hoped that once it was over the night would belong to him and his love. It was a long shot but he was still craving her. It's been so long since he was able to actually hold her in his arms for real. To be able to kiss her, feel her, please her.

When Naraku came back to himself from his wandering thoughts he realized that he'd been lounging around in his sleeping yukata for some time now. Shaking his head at his own laziness he decided that it was finally time for him to get ready…only to come to a startling realization: He had no clothes.

Chuckling remembering the last time he realized that he hadn't anything proper to wear. Deciding to go commando that time around was probably one of the best decisions he'd ever made in his life. Second only to stalking Kagome into that cave.

How tempting it was just to do it all over again just to surprise his little priestess that option was officially off of the table. Every single aspect of the clothing he had no longer suited his person and was out of the question.

Thankfully he was both an intelligent and resourceful creature and knew exactly what it was he needed to do. Recalling that there was a market somewhere nearby he decided that his best option would be to go there and hope he'd be able to find an appropriate outfit for his debut with Kagome's group. Maybe even some weapons for credibilities sake as he was supposed to be a warrior, and no one ever heard of an unarmed fighter. Donning an old purple haori, black hakama and a black sash he grabbed his coin pouch and headed out.

The sky was just beautiful that afternoon and the cool breeze truly made the day perfect in his opinion. Taking a deep breath he felt the playful sway of the wind lift up his crimson locks and had the unshakable urge to fly.

"I suppose I am a kind of bird now. It's only natural that I'd want to fly." He told himself quietly.

Decision made Naraku was attempting to sprout his wings when suddenly he realized that he couldn't. He was almost worried, but then realized that it was his clothes restricting him. Face going blank he realized that being intelligent and a fool could somehow be simultaneously possible. Removing the purple haori and black sash he took them back inside and put them away. His OCD simply wouldn't allow him to just carelessly toss them into the grass.

Just as soon as he'd stepped outside his wings seemed to sprout automatically and stretch out completely before tucking themselves back in. It was such a natural feeling to have them out and wondered if it was possible to find a wardrobe that would allow them to stay exposed. Surely it was possible. If Sesshomaru was able to find a set that allowed his tail to be freed there had to be hope for him. Oh yes, that damned moko-moko was definitely a dog tail. How he got it to detach from his person in human form was a mystery, but at least now he knew why he always kept it out.

With a powerful beat of his wings Naraku, now Kaen, soared high in the sky and for a few minutes forgot that he was meant to be traveling and simply reveled in the wind blowing through his hair and smoothing over his smiling face. Flying was truly amazing and he was beginning to understand why birds preferred to stay moving.

All good moments come to an end unfortunately and with that in mind he changed course and made his way to the marketplace.

'Traveling by air was wonder filled, but it did draw a fair amount of attention' he realized as he saw heads snapping up to stare at him in awe. 'Then again…' he watched as some woman stared slack jawed directly at him and others ran away red in mortification, '…it could just be that I am half naked. Humans and their modesty, so frivolous.'

Landing a ways away from the marketplace he was grateful that there weren't any souls nearby to gawk at him. As he got closer the stench of humans became somewhat unbearable and he struggled to keep a straight face. Luckily for him the market was also filled with demon vendors who had what seemed to be a kind of intense that dulled their smells to a tolerable level as you neared their stands. He passed up several that seemed to be craftspeople, blacksmiths, and all kinds of merchants. Some sold jewels, others sold supposedly valuable luxury items. He was searching in particular at this time for a stall that sold clothing. He was in immediate need for a kimono set. One would do for now and he could always begin his collection anew at another time.

Besides, "Kaen" did recently escape "Naraku's" clutches. He would've needed a new set of clothing a swell as weaponry and armor.

'Keep going straight' he heard in a quiet feminine voice causing him to misstep and almost crash into a small child running from its mother. Looking around himself he neither saw or sensed whoever said that to him.

'You are still so very entertaining it seems' the voice said with a laughter.

'Midoriko?' He thought to himself baffled.

'Very clever of you to deduce that so quickly.' She said sarcastically.

'I thought you'd said I'd never hear from you again. I was looking forward to that.' He said irritably.

She snickered before deigning him with a reply.

'I had thought so myself, however it is the will of the Kami that I stay and aid you in your quest.'

'I fail to see how you'd be of any real help…' Naraku began only to be cut off by the warrior priestess.

'Ah, but you see I already know where the final shards lie. I shall guide you and your spawn. Perhaps then I can finally rest in peace. In the mean time however I am here. Don't be alarmed young one, I am quite aware that there will be times when my presence will be most unwelcome in your mind. Fret not, I may come and go as I please, sparing my spiritual eyes from your carnal activities.' She teased.

'Thank Kami for small mercies then.' He thought to himself. At the last thing he needed was commentary when he drove his miko to euphoria.

'PLEASE DO NOT THINK OF SUCH PERVERSIONS WHILE I AM HERE!' She screeched, in turn making him finally the one to snicker at her misfortune.

'Then by all means, go, as you said you're able.'

'I would, but you don't seem to know where you're going in this market. I sense a seamstress youkai nearby, and they'd be ideal for creating new clothing for you. Also, I know where to find the perfect armor and weaponry for you. Be grateful to me, birdie.'

With an indignant grunt Naraku continued straight ahead ignoring all those vying for his attention to their wares. He found the stall Midoriko was talking about and by its scent the seamstress must of been a spider youkai.

She came out of the back space when he walked into her stall and was slightly surprised at her appearance. She had long brown hair pulled into a high tail and large green eyes. Her kimono was a shade of light beige and dark browns and it complimented the slightly tanned skin she had.

'Huh, so that's what a spider youkai is supposed to look like.' He thought to himself. He'd never actually seen one before. 'How…plain.'

"How may I be of service to you, Hinotori-san?" She spoke softly, not at all flustered by his partial nudity.

"I require a new kimono set. I must depart as it nears dusk so it must done by that time. Price is not a factor. Is this something that you can accomplish?" Naraku said.

"Surely I can. I may even be done well before that. Kindly pick out your colored fabric choices so that I may produce your commission." She said.

It only took a second to realized that although he was a fan of flare and dramatics he wasn't quite sure if he would do a great job on his color choices. Sure he'd been confident as Naraku in terms of his fashion, however he didn't look anything like that now. Naraku's new color scheme called for something different and that was simply not his forte.

"I trust your judgement in that regard, lady seamstress. I am confident you'd do a better job than I in this."

A small indulgent smile curved her lips and she motioned to the back of the stall.

"If you will, I need to obtain your measurements, unless you already know them?"

Again, he had no actual idea of what his new size was. Instead of answering he merely walked to the back of the shop with the kumo youkai following behind him. He was grateful that she was exceedingly competent for she only took a few moments to obtain his measurements and fit him for new tabs and boots. She had the grace not to mention his lack of footwear and merely provided him with the perfect boots.

Once that was done he walked back out into the crowded market and wondered at what to do next when the most mouth watering aroma entered his nostrils. He honestly didn't really know that he was hungry. He followed it to a small stand where an aged man was roasting what seemed like boar meat over an open flame. His wrinkled features stretched into a welcoming smile at his approach.

"Ah, hello young one. Are ye also down by your nose to my cart?" He said kindly.

Naraku's stomach was positively growling as if he hadn't eaten in days. It was so strange for he knew he'd eaten recently. Taking his silence as an affirmation the old man chucked and wiped his hands on his apron.

"Ye look as if you've hit a growth spurt lately. Must be ravenous."

"Why do you think so, Ji-san?"

"Ye seem to be missing half of your wardrobe and the half you have don't look to be fitting too right, my boy." He said with a laugh, making Naraku notice that his hakama were indeed skin tight and only went down mid calf. The only think that fit him were his new boots. A lesser man would of been more embarrassed, but somehow he didn't feel quite so put out about it.

"Come, I know just what ye are looking for." The old vendor said as he lead him back to what looked like a storage space. When the door opened the scent of deliciousness increased dramatically and he realized that it was actually a secluded eating space within a large room of spiced meats.

"Most youkai are quite private when it comes to how they eat, so I made a space for ye all here in back to eat to your fill in peace. Tell me boy, how much did ye grow and what's your species? I will know just the thing for ye." He said.

Surprised boy the aura of kindness and compassion coming from the old man he was obliged to sit and respond.

"I grew much overnight, and I am a phoenix. What I am more curious about is you. You are human, yet you serve my kind with no hostility and seem to know much about youkai." Naraku said.

"I get that a lot youngster. I supposed that I never truly brought into hatred between our species. Humans are just as, if not more, destructive. At least in terms of nature we destroy land to survive, and as far as wild demons go most are just trying to catch dinner. It is all about ones perception. Aside from that each soul be it human or demon makes choices that make them either good or evil. Sadly even that could be a matter of perception. At any rate, before this old man babbles on let me go to retrieve your plate." With a quick bow he ambled off into the storage space.

Naraku sitting at the low table wondered about this man. He was definitely genuine about his opinion and he wondered if all of the other humans here, both merchants and patrons, were of the same mind. He didn't have long to ponder the thought because the kindly old man returned with a literal cart of meats and it would be a lie if he said it didn't look a little bit…overkill.

"Ji-san, I am not sure I understand…" he started but was cut off by good natured chuckling from the shop keeper.

"Trust me boy I've served humans, demons and hanyo all of my life. This will be whatcha need. I'll be back wit some water for ye soon, but for now feel free to feast. " he said placing a large platter from the cart in front of the now salivating demon.

The moment its aroma hit his nostrils he was lost in the sea of gluttonous bliss. He knew now when the man returned wit the pitcher of water for he was consumed with and by the food. They were all raw meats that were spiced to perfection. One plate became two, then the next thing he knew the whole cart had been emptied and he leaned back feeling completely filled to the brim.

'I guess he knew more about my appetite than I did.' He thought as he finished off the pitcher of water. Wiping his face with the proffered cloth napkin he went outside to pay the old man for the best meal he'd ever had.

The sun had already moved a great distance in the sky which told him how long he'd been eating for. It was honestly a little startling. It must of shown on his face as well because the vendor chuckled at him.

"Ye didn't realize how hungry ye were. Don't fret, you'll be able to tell the next time ye require a helping that size. Ye mustn't forget to eat well, young one, I know it's easy to dismiss for demons but humor this old man and assure me you'll take much better care of that body of yours." He said with a kind smile.

"Of course. Perhaps I'll return again soon. Maybe even with my mate. I feel as if she'd like you and your cooking."

"Oh ye have a little lady! I'll be sure to have a delightful batch of seasoned meats for her."

Something about this harmless elder compelled him to be honest about himself and circumstances. So with a small grin Naraku replied, "Perhaps something else would be better suited. My mate is human after all."

"Ye Kami! I thought these old bones couldn't have seen greater things! If only the rest of the world could be more like ye, then maybe peace would be possible between our kinds. Well, be off now young lad, I can tell that ye have some place to be."

With a nod and a smile Naraku handed a large amount of coin to the vender and left him sputtering.

"You have my thanks Ji-san. We shall meet again soon." Is what he said as he walked down the next row of tents.

'You seemed quite fond of the shopkeeper.' A familiar voice sounded off in his head.

'Kami woman, can I not be at peace within my own mind?'

'No'

Rubbing his eyes with his thumb and forefinger Naraku attempted to accept that he was once again playing host to another soul. Even if this one was pure it was still irritating.

'Oh don't be so vexed. I won't be nearly as obtrusive as you think. Now make your way to the middle stall in this row. It is a weapons cache and you will find what you need there. Before you ask how I know these things remember that I am a spirit and though I am attached to you I can also roam free for amounts of time.'

Grunting at her statement Naraku wandered to that stall in particular and immediately questioned her knowledge.

'Midoriko. Perhaps being a spirit has dimmed you of your intelligence because this is not a weapons cache. This is a fish stand.'

Strange as it sounds it was almost as if Naraku could feel her roll her eyes at him before she responded.

'Then tell me, do you smell fish?' She said.

Blinking he realized that it didn't smell like fish. It didn't smell like anything at all.

'The shop keeper is using a henge, intelligent one.' Midoriko snipped at him.

Glaring at nothing in particular but imagining it was her, the hinotori entered into the stall cautiously. Once he was passed a few paces into the shop he was met with an entirely different scene. It was definitely a weapons stall. Daggers and swords littered the walls as well as maces, axes, and an assortment of other weapons.

"Hello there traveler, how might I help you?" A booming voice called out.

Turning to his right Naraku saw the burliest fox demon he'd ever seen. He would've easily mistaken him for a bear youkai had it not been for the tail.

"Very clever deception you have on your stall." Naraku replied.

"Aye, its better this way. I've got no desire to sell my wares to those who'd be fooled by a henge so simple, or to indulge curious passerby's. Only those who can see past deception are qualified to gaze upon my work. Take your time, if you have any questions I'll be right here." The fox said.

Nodding his head Naraku looked around and thought about what he'd actually need. He found a black hilted longsword that was skillfully made and was instantly taken with. He knew how to handle a long sword very well after all, better than any other weapon. He also found a beautiful dagger, some kunai, a pouch to place them in, and in the back he found a remarkable long bow. It was intricately crafted and wrapped in white dyed leather with red straps. It was made for Kagome. It came with a matching quiver and some arrows as well making it an even better gift for her.

Going closer to the back he found some basic samurai armor that would suit his needs. They were black so no matter what colors his new clothing would be it would match it perfectly. It came with a chest piece, girdle, and shin guards that were expertly crafted.

Taking his choices up to the shopkeeper Naraku count't stop himself from asking, "Did you craft all of these yourself?"

"Aye. They all have been made by these two paws with love and determination." He said puffing out his chest.

"They are all amazing creations, and I vow to wear them well." Naraku said.

Bowing gratefully at the compliment the fox smiled and began putting the items in a travel bag.

After paying the kitsune he took his purchases and headed back to the seamstress stall. It was getting later and he wondered if she was finished with his outfit yet. She had mentioned that she may be done early after all.

Luckily she was ready and waiting to show him his new ensemble. It was marvelous really. The black hakama were iridescent and looked to be extremely durable, and the haori was blood red with black swirls that matched his markings woven into it. The cuffs and linings were also the same iridescent black of his hakama and his obi was golden yellow with orange and black swirls dancing around it. He was even further impressed by the back of his haori for it had extra slits to slide his wings through and the design was so very clever that one wouldn't even know that they were there. They could be closed up with hidden buttons on the inside of the haori and she did the same to the inner haori. She had included a black under kimono to complete the outfit.

Ushering him into the back she handed him the created work and implored him to change into his new clothing. Extending his gratitude towards her he walked into the back of the shop where'd he'd earlier given her his measurements and began to strip out of his old clothes and when he was done he was so very glad he'd chosen her shop.

The clothing fit him like a dream and his reflection in the mirror told him that he looked as handsome as he already knew he was. It was simply perfect, and obviously, made just for him. After placing his newly purchased armor on and equipping his new weapons he headed back out to the seamstress. He handed her a large portion of coin and her eyes almost bulged out of her head.

"Please young lord, you pay way more than what's due!" She said with a panic stricken voice.

"Nay, for soon I shall return and need much more that what you've provided. Consider this the start of a healthy business relationship."

After several bows and plaques of gratitude the freshly dressed phoenix demon left the marketplace and headed back to the outskirts of the town. When he reached there he spread out wide his wings and once again took to the skies. It was finally time to reunite with his soon to be mate, and begin the arduous task of making their future happen.