Shippo sat wrapped in blankets as we watched Kagome pace back and forth. He had woken up to her panicked muttering and no matter how many times he asked what was wrong, she would just give him a weary smile and continue pacing. She still wore the same outfit from last night and Shippo wondered if she had even slept. His green eyes darted to the general who stood stock still at the open door. It seemed like even Kuro was having a hard time speaking. But what happened? No one would tell him anything and he was beginning to get frustrated seeing his mother in such a state. He let out a high whine and without missing a beat from her pacing, Kagome scooped him up and tucked him under her arm.
She was warmer than usual, brighter too. Shippo squinted and shoved his head into the blankie that he was rolled in, puffing his tail out as much as he could so his mother could pet it. He knew she loved his tail, always calling him a furball. And while it made him blush from all the attention, Shippo would happily give up his manly pride so his mother could relax somewhat.
He felt her fingers begin to stroke the puff of fur and he nearly melted into her arms. It was the only flaw in his plan. He may be put to sleep by the soothing gesture.
"Kagome-sama, you must calm down!" Kuro's voice sounded close and Shippo peaked up in time to see the general grab Kagome's arm. His red brows were furrowed in concern, but what caught Shippo's attention was how his tails were standing nearly straight out. He must have been very surprised for his tails to give him away without noticing. Something big happened, Shippo could feel it.
"How!" Kagome's voice came out in an accidental melody, the stress she felt causing her to lose control of her powers. "Besides, what if I just insulted him or something!?" He was jolted as his mother rounded and stopped in front of Kuro. Neither of them were paying him any attention and Shippo perked his ears in excitement. He would finally know!
"Oh, my lady, I surly doubt you could insult milord." Kuro's voice came out in a half chuckle as if he was privy to his own joke.
"What do you mean?" Kagome's fingers paused in his fur as she continued. "Does he know I was just trying to say thank you, you think?"
Kuro coughed and a blush tinted his cheeks. "Oh, I see. If I may ask my lady, where did you learn such a thing?"
Shippo felt eyes on him and he squealed when Kagome propped him up to face the older Kitsune. "I have Shippo, so I've been learning mannerisms from foxes." Shippo froze and glanced over his shoulder to meet his mom's glowing, blue eyes.
"The gestures," Kagome paused and swallowed. "They mean the same thing across species right?" Shippo felt his breath catch and his face burned red in embarrassment for his mother.
Kuro's heavy sigh made him look back at the fox demon and Shippo wished he hadn't. The general was giving him a stern stare and Shippo instinctively curled back in towards his mother.
"No Kagome-sama, they don't"
Ah. Shippo stayed as still as possible, hoping to be forgotten. The way Kagome tensed made him worry but he tried to remain calm. How could he have forgotten to tell her!? So much for being a cunning fox! He felt himself being placed back down on the furs and he watched as Kagome trembled, a half laugh escaping her as she glanced back at Kuro.
"To him then, what-" she cut herself off and swallowed, adjusting the headpiece she wore as she gathered her bearings. "My gesture was for appreciation," Kuro nodded in agreement with her.
"Yes, to a fox, it would be appreciation."
Kagome closed her eyes, the golden light that danced on her skin flickered as she continued. "And to an inu? What did I say?"
Kuro scratched at his pointed ear, "there are several interpretations. None you may like."
Kagome threw her hands up and let out a cry of frustration. "Don't torture me Kuro! Just say it!" Shippo would have been worried for his mom yelling at a demon, but now he remembered she was even stronger. It was ok. He forced his instincts back down, Kuro was a friend.
"It could mean you trust him to provide," Kuro paused and gauged Kagome's reaction.
"Ok, not bad so far-" he cut her off and continued.
"Or if not already in a relationship, that you are looking to court."
The heat that Shippo felt on his face must have been nothing compared to what his mother figure felt. He could see her entire face burn a brilliant crimson all the way down to her neck.
"Oh no" she groaned out. "Can't I just tell him I meant the first one? Since he provided the shrine!?" Shippo nodded in agreement, the reasoning was sure to work. His hope was short-lived and Shippo's tail deflated at Kuro's next words.
"I'm afraid not my lady. For inu and many other species, when they provide for a female it is for one they are courting or have already mated." Kuro's apologetic face was missed as Kagome threw her head into her hands. She stood still for a long moment and Shippo heard her counting backwards with the new numbers he had been learning.
"I'm sorry mama." Needless to say, Shippo felt bad. He had been the cause of his mother's humiliation because he wasn't smart enough to warn her that it was only for foxes. Kagome's head snapped up and she walked over to him, plopping down on the furs next to him and gathering him in her arms. "No Ship, it's not your fault. I'm the adult here, I should have known."
"You tell him not to worry about something he cannot control yet you blame yourself for something you could not have known?" Kuro's curious voice approached them and he crouched down to be eye level with them both. Kagome made to protest but Kuro shot her down fast.
"No Kagome-sama, you did as you knew. I am sure everything will be fine and he will understand."
Shippo eyed Kuro, his instincts telling him there was something more that he didn't say. He blinked and almost missed the wink Kuro threw his way. Before he could be sure though, the older fox stood and walked to the door.
"Now then let's talk about something that will serve our time well." He dragged a groggy teen in by the collar. "Just who might this be?"
"Hey put me down!" The brown haired boy protested as Kuro easily lifted him in the air by his collar.
"Very well."
Shippo grinned with all his teeth in merriment as the older fox played his trick. There was a puff of blue smoke and the curly haired teen levitated for a moment before being dropped to the ground. Kuro's wide grin as he walked away only fueled Shippo's mischievous nature more. He couldn't wait to be able to do something like that so easily!
"Kuro!" Kagome's disappointed voice tutted at the general who simply chuckled. "Be nice to Hajime!"
"Yeah! Be nice to Hajime!" The boy exclaimed as he managed to untangle his limbs and lift himself off the floor. He muttered about tricksters and dusted himself off before standing straight and bowing at the waist.
"Kagome-kami, I apologize for falling asleep." Brown curly hair fell over his face and Kagome stood to greet him.
"It's all right, it was a long night. Now then," she spun back towards them and made Hajime straighten.
"This is Hajime. He is… a spirit we think?" She looked over at the teen who shrugged. "Anyways, Inukimi thought it would be a good idea to have him around. He can turn invisible to others, but I can always see him."
Shippo saw Kuro stiffen when Kagome mentioned Hajime's ability to be invisible. He only relaxed slightly when Kagome mentioned that she could always see him.
"Is that wise? We do not know him, and it is my duty to protect you as of right now." Kuro leveled Hajime with a stern stare, it made Shippo shiver and absently wonder at just what Kuro had done to keep the lands safe.
"You can trust me! I would never hurt Kagome-sama!" The conviction in the teen's voice made Shippo pause and tilt his head, he was tempted to believe him. Apparently it had some effect on Kuro as well.
"Hn, very well. But only because Inukimi-sama approves, I will be watching you."
Shippo saw his mom stop mid eyeroll and instead replaced her exasperation with a smile of gratitude. "Thank you."
Kuro gave her a nod and motioned for her to lay back in the furs. Shippo didn't protest and he quickly huddled in with his mom.
"Of course, now rest. I heard you were up all night." Kuro pulled the furs over him and Kagome before standing and walking to the door.
"Hajime and I will keep over the grounds."
Shippo closed his eyes, not really tired but not daring to say no to cuddles with his mom. He was sure he could fall asleep again anyways.
TBTW
The smell of old blood hung heavy in the air as he walked. Hard snow crunched under his feet and a gust of cold wind made his hair rise on end. It was cold, even for him. In front of him lay a large pool of blood, the only thing found in the clearing that was surrounded by high trees.
His heart clenched and he wondered if a scavenger had gotten to her. Kagome had lost too much blood, even old, the scent was heavy. Inuyasha approached closer and crouched near, his nose sniffing delicately as he tried to understand what happened. He had followed Shippo's scent north, Kagome's blood heavy in the air. He wasn't sure if he chose the right direction though. He knew the runt couldn't have possibly transformed, but there was no other way that Shippo could have moved across the land so fast. His speed was what made it hard for Inuyasha to tell which way they had gone. The scent was the same amount of staleness in either direction.
A sneeze tore through him and he cursed under his breath, blaming the high levels of purity that seeped from the ground. Mainly from where he assumed Kagome had laid. He sighed and his breath came out in a puff, his ears swiveled and he strained to hear any signs of life. Either they stopped here and both had died, or Shippo had in fact headed in the other direction. He turned and prepared to run back the way he came when something odd caught his eye. Off to the side was a patch of green grass in the middle of the frozen north. In the center of the vibrant green grass was a single sunflower.
Inuyasha narrowed his eyes and approached, circling the green grass before cautiously stepping on it and away from the snow. A breeze of summer blew through his hair and the sunflower swayed gently. It was as if this one small patch had been spared from the harshness of winter. But how? Inuyasha ran his clawed hand over the large flower and a tingle of something ran up his arm. The feeling seeped into his chest and a sense of contentment flooded him. He jumped back immediately, back on to the snowy ground and narrowed his golden eyes in thought. He would have to find the monk and ask what this was all about, but first, he needed to find Kagome. Inuyasha turned and sniffed at the air, catching the kit's strange scent and took off. The footprints that he left behind were the only sign of his visit.
TBTW
A cold chill snapped at Kagome as she wandered through the dark forest. It was completely dark, even the usual glow of her skin was absent. She didn't know where she was nor did she know how she got there. The other thing that had her on edge were the eyes that followed her every step. Kagome shuddered as she stepped by a yurei, it's empty gaze simply following her though it did not move. Now that she wasn't running for her life and they weren't attacking, she could see that they were simply souls that were left to degrade over time. Their spirits felt hollow and their will driven by another. She didn't know where she was going but she hoped it would be away from them. As she took another cautious step, the forest blurred and she found herself encircled by hundreds of them. In front of her, the sea of souls parted and Kagome gasped.
Before her was the entrance of a cave, a cave that she had seen when she and Kuro had been attacked. She swallowed and looked behind her, the yurei were slowly walking towards her, edging her forward towards the entrance. Hesitantly, she complied, not seeing another way out. The first thing she had done when she found herself in this predicament was try to use her powers. Of course with her luck they didn't work in this place, wherever she was.
Kagome steeled her nerves as she approached the entrance, just as she was about to cross into the cave, the hair on her arms stood on end. She flung herself back and before she could even blink, lightning had struck the ground at her feet. It was hot in a way that tingled across her skin, but it didn't burn. When her eyes adjusted she saw lightning arching and spinning, it spread out around her and encased her in a dome.
Her heart skipped and she gathered her wits about her, flinching when the first of the yurei began to smash themselves into the lightning barrier that surrounded her. Kagome held her chest tighten in fear as they threw themselves at her relentlessly, though none could pass the electrified barrier. Swallowing, she took a cautious step closer to the dome and gasped when she saw another yurei slam itself into it. When it pulled away, she could see that half of it's body had been seared off. It struck again and again, each time losing more and more of it's spirit until it no longer had the ability to throw itself into the barrier. It stared at her from it's collapsed heap on the ground, its sunken eyes full of malice and it's jaws snapping. A long low growl from behind her made her jump and she spun around, coming face to face with a large wolf. It was the largest she had ever seen, even compared to those of Koga's tribe. Lightning crackled along it's fur, a brilliant blue and white. She met the beast's eyes and was surprised to find curiosity shining back. As she looked closer, she could see smaller arcs of electricity running through it's iris' as if it were woven from the element itself.
Against her better judgment, Kagome found herself awed. Though, she didn't dare more, not when she was entrapped in the doom of electricity with no where to go.
"You have wandered too far, young one"
Kagome blinked in astonishment, her mouth agape as she heard the beast's low gravelly voice in her head.
"I don't even remember wandering!"
A low growl that sounded suspiciously like a chuckle filled the air with it's tremors. "One does not have to travel purposely to become lost." The wolf paused and tilted his head to the side. "My master's domain is strong, but it is not without it's limits. Come, we shall depart this wretched land." The wolf sank to it's belly and watched Kagome expectantly.
She looked back behind her and gasped, the sea of yurei had grown to several thousand. Glancing back at the wolf she gave him a weary smile. She didn't exactly have a choice. As she approached and grabbed at it's fur to prop herself up, lightning danced along her skin and left warm trails behind.
"My name is Kagome, what's yours?" She asked, trying to distract herself as the giant wolf drew itself back up on it's feet.
"You may call me Raiju, now, hold on tight little goddess."
Glowing blue eyes widened in recognition of the name. A name only told in the tales her grandfather insisted she learn. Raiju, the familiar of Raijin, the kami of lightning. Kagome's stomach sunk and she held on for dear life as Raiju jumped straight into the air. The barrier of lightning followed them and from below, Kagome could hear the screams of anger fading as they climbed higher and higher.
"You know of me." It was a statement and Kagome wasn't one to lie. She nodded and spoke quietly, trying to keep her nerves steeled from the height they were at.
"Yes, my grandfather spoke of many tales, he insisted I learn as well." The furry body under her shook and Kagome realized he was laughing.
"Yes, there are lessons in tales. Now see that they are more relevant to you than you may have ever thought." The wolf turned his head back and met her blue eyes. "Everything you see is real, and not. Your body is safe, but be warned, dream travel comes with dangers to one as young as you."
Pieces started clicking in Kagome's head and her eyes widened. "That's why I didn't know how I got there!" She smacked herself in the head, "Of course! That makes sense!"
"Wait," she looked back down at Raiju who was once again looking ahead. The top of the clouds were the only thing she could see for miles. "How did you know where to find me? Are, well are you...helping me?" Kagome felt his amusement and she blushed slightly.
"No, this one wishes to eat you." Raiju looked back at her again and his teeth were exposed in a vicious smile. He rolled his eyes when she stiffened and he huffed. "Come now, don't be so serious. I would have already eaten you if that were the case."
Kagome gulped and ran her fingers through her long black hair, trying to calm her nerves. "Hah, yeah…" A clap of thunder startled her and she nearly jumped off the wolf entirely.
"Raiju!" A deep booming voice filled her ears and for a moment, she wondered if thunder could speak. The wolf under her stiffened and Kagome saw his ears lay flat against his head. What could scare an electric wolf?
His big head turned back around and Kagome was met with large puppy dog eyes. Though, they weren't directed at her. Slowly, she turned her head back and found herself face to face with a wild haired man. Electricity crackled around him, mostly gathered at his feet. His black hair was of medium length and floated straight up, as if he were in a perpetual fall. Large bushy brows were drawn down and a vicious grin was plastered on his face. Just like the wolf, his eyes danced with lightning, though his were a constant electric blue. Brilliant and glowing. Kagome found herself dumbstruck, unable to do anything but stare.
In a flash, he raised his hand and stuck a large drum held against his body. Thunder boomed with each strike and slowly, the clouds darkened and grew. Kagome watched as he turned his attention from the wolf to her and she narrowed her eyes in defiance, keeping her back straight.
The man threw his head back and laughed, though the angry looking face didn't go away. "My! How strong spirited you are! I think you will do just fine!"
"Huh?"
He didn't give her a chance to ask any questions, instead he continued on as if she weren't completely lost.
"You know what you must do, at least you've already been told so. Now, don't wander too far, we cannot always be there to help you little sister."
Kagome opened her mouth to speak, to ask if he was who she thought he was. She didn't get the chance.
"No questions, now go, you must find your own way."
Light filled her vision and suddenly, the wild haired man was standing very, very close. He gave her a grin, his eyes dancing with mirth. "Don't scream."
Kagome's stomach rose to her throat, her mouth open but unable to yell. She felt herself get flung back and before she knew it, she was plunging down through the clouds. Her black hair whipped around her and her golden hakama billowed in the wind. She saw him strike his drum, heard the thunder clap, and then she awoke with a start.
Kagome gasped, her hands clutching at the furs that she fell asleep in as she turned on all fours. Her heart was beating wildly in her chest as she fought for air. Slowly, she managed to calm and turned to see Shippo staring at her with wide green eyes. His hair stuck up in random spots, as if he had walked around a carpet and held a balloon to his head.
"M-mom?"
She gave him a grin that hoped was reassuring, but it must not have been very convincing. He scooted closer to her and yipped when a small zap of lightning caught his fingers.
The doors to the room flew open and Kuro flew into the room. His eyes were wide and his hand was white knuckled on his sword. "Kagome-sama!"
She didn't even have time to respond before she was met with brilliant green eyes. They weren't looking at her, but instead they scanned the room and to her relief, made sure Shippo was also ok.
"What has happened? Why is your kit-" he cut himself off with a hiss. Kagome took the hand that had been zapped and inspected it. It wasn't even marred, but she figured that the leftover lightning was probably painful anyways.
"I'm fine Kuro, I think." She looked up at him with a smile before it fell from her face. Her brows drew together in thought. "I had a dream I think?"
Kuro ran a hand down his face before pinching the bridge of his nose. His red eyebrows furrowed and he spoke with closed eyes. "A dream? You are saying all that lightning came from a dream?"
Kagome blinked. Lightning? "Wait! You saw that!?"
"It was everywhere!" Shippo exclaimed, spreading his arms out to emphasize his point. "It didn't really hurt me but it did make me stay away." His mouth turned down in a pout. "What if something happened to you mama?"
"Yes indeed, kit." Kuro agreed with Shippo and brought his eyes back to her. "I was unable to open the door, your shrine was repeatedly struck with lightning. Due to prior events, I was quite worried."
She nodded in understanding and grabbed his hand while a smile blossomed on her face. "Then I have great news to share. Now, I am certain that the lightning is not our enemy." She paused and took in his inquisitive face. "I am certain that Rajin is not our enemy."
His eyes widened in surprise and Kagome found herself standing in the next moment.
"Come my lady! We must speak to the lady mother of what you know then!" He spoke and ushered her deeper into the shrine before turning and making for the door. "I'll wait outside!"
The doors slammed shut and Kagome blinked from her spot in the middle of the room. She looked down at Shippo who shrugged and padded over to her.
"I guess we should change?" He questioned and motioned to his wrinkled formal attire. All Kagome wanted now more than ever was a bath, but it seemed like she would have to wait.
"Do I smell bad Shippo?" She reached for him and he jumped in her arms, sniffing delicately. Kagome would never tell him how cute she thought his little sniffing was.
"No actually, you smell like you just got out of the bath. Huh." Shippo wrinkled his nose. "I wonder how."
She shrugged and pulled at his cheek. "Who knows, maybe it's a perk?"
The were both silent as they took off their clothes, Kagome making new garments for them while gauging her energy levels. It didn't take much, in fact, giving Sango and Miroku the blessing had drained her significantly more.
Shippo groaned as she handed him an all gold outfit, his tiny paws reluctant to take it. "It's so shiny, I'm a walking gemstone!" He pouted as he helped her dress him and she gave him an apologetic smile.
"Sorry Ship, but one color fits all for now." He grumbled some more and went to go flop on the furs while she got ready. She sighed as she eyed the simple golden miko garments she made. Shippo was right, this was too much. With just as much enthusiasm as him, she put her clothes on and began the task of unweaving the rest of the jewels from her inky black hair. She decided to let it loose today, the soft waves falling down her back in a sea of black. Hopefully it would break up the color some.
Kagome eyes the room which was mostly empty and nodded towards Shippo who jumped into her arms before departing. Kuro was right outside as he said and he squinted when he looked at her. The sun shone high in the sky now and the fabric of her clothes sent rainbow dots across every surface. Kuro opened his mouth to speak but thought better of it and simply turned and led them to the study where Inukimi was sure to be.
As Kagome followed, her heart began to pound, remembering the events that happened right before she fell asleep. If there was one thing she was good at, it was making a fool of herself apparently.
"You're thinking about the wrong things milady." Kuro's voice drifted back and she looked up in time to meet his inquisitive gaze.
"He will understand, besides, there is greater news to discuss now no?"
"I guess Kuro, is he even here anyways?"
The general shook his head, "no, but AhUn is on his way to inform him that he is needed. It should not take long."
That's the part she was worried about. She sighed heavily and pushed her emotions back as far as they would go. Kuro was right, there were more important things to discuss.
TBTW
To anyone looking, Sesshomaru was as calm and poised as any other day. HIs expression was smooth and unblemished by the emotions that raged within him. A crack appeared as his jaw clenched, golden eyes roving the familiar forest path. He had begun to wander this way more often than he liked, and if he was honest with himself, it had been for some time now. Bokuseno was already awake and stared at him with aged eyes as he made his way into the clearing that held the ancient magnolia. He didn't speak, instead he simply jumped and rested among the branches, just as he did when he was a pup.
"It's been a long time since you've sought my guidance so consistently lord Sesshomaru. Have you decided to talk of that which lingers on your mind?"
For a long moment, Sesshomaru didn't respond. His mind was wondering of the consequences of telling his old advisor the root of his problems. Instead, he decided to play it safe for the time being.
"What do you know of courting."
The limbs on which Sesshomaru sat on shook slightly in the ancient yokai's surprise.
"I know that it is different yet similar for many of us."
Sesshomaru expected as much. He didn't go out of his way to learn courting techniques from different species, but he knew enough not to be ignorant in the matter. Ever since she displayed the act of affection, Sesshomaru could not push it from his mind, though rationally he knew that it was not what she meant. She could not have meant it that way. And yet, every time he tries to reassure himself of the fact his chest clenched in...in what? He could not name the feeling but knew he disliked it immeasurably. He thought of the kit she spent all of her time with and followed it up with another.
"What do you know of foxes." Sesshomaru could practically feel the trees excitement and it was starting to grate on his nerves.
"They are sensual beings, motivated by acts of physical love and displays of mischief. I know that inu's more...private gestures of love are child's play compared to what a fox can display. Especially in the eyes of many."
Sesshomaru closed his eyes as he took in Bokuseno's words. It was as he thought. Foxes and dogs were nothing alike.
Golden eyes opened and narrowed in thought. She was no fox.
"You know of the new kami." He didn't doubt that Bokuseno didn't not know.
"Yes, a strong new kami, one whom overcame the challenges those before her could not." Branches swayed in a coming breeze and he continued, "It has been several millennia, though Midoroku was close."
Sesshomaru's ears twitched and he hopped down from his perch, eyes Bokuseno with a slight hint of curiosity.
"Challenges?" Did he mean the completion of the shikon jewel?
"There are several ways kami are made, lord Sesshomaru. Though the way she was born into creation is rare. As rare as the pure heart she carries. Kagome-kami was pure, even mortal." Deep brown eyes stared down at him and Sesshomaru hid his surprise at the extent of his knowledge. He had never named the kami, though he couldn't really be too surprised at the connections his advisor had.
"My brethren from the north brought whispers to me, the kind that make legends. The miko, in her final moments of life begged for her kit to be spared, begged for the serenity of her friends, even of those who betrayed her."
Sesshomaru felt his jaw clench automatically and he found himself unwilling to hold back his anger. He knew of who Bokuseno was speaking of specifically, Inuyasha.
He looked down when the drops of his blood made contact with the forest floor, the leaves of autumn crunching ender its combined weight. He slid his claws from his palms and forced himself to relax.
"You care for her."
Did he? Was that what that wretched emotion was? Even as he thought it, he knew it to be a lie. The feeling that filled him when he had a quiet moment with her made him almost content, something he hadn't felt in years.
"What does her doing that have anything to do with her being made a kami?" Sesshomaru purposefully ignored his question and Bokuseno went on as if he never spoke the words.
"Everything and nothing. Thousands die wishing for their loved ones to be well or deciding to forgive those that wronged them, but not all who say so truly mean it. In the crevices of their hearts lay a darkness that taints them even in their forgiveness and offers of love." Leaves floated to the ground as Bokuseno shook his branches in the cold breeze. "Somewhere along the way in her mortal life, a kami must have noticed her and given her favor. I know not who, but her main strengths will be given from the kami that decided she was worthy. That she truly held no malice in her heart."
Sesshomaru was silent for a moment, contemplating his words. Perhaps then, he could find himself to truly trust her. He had already grown to like her for her knowledge and begrudgingly, her defiance. As if reading his thoughts, the ancient magnolia continued.
"You who trust so few, should perhaps see if you can find a friend in her."
Sesshomaru eyed him and began to wonder just how much the magnolia knew.
"Your messenger is coming, prepare for a fast flight." Before the old yokai closed his eyes, he gave him a gentle smile filled with all his years. "Love can be a beautiful thing, Lord Sesshomaru."
Sesshomaru didn't wait for him to fall back asleep. He simply turned on his heel and made his way towards AhUh who was fast approaching. He sighed, yet again finding himself leaving with more questions than answers.
TBTW
This was one of the days that Kuro found himself wondering if he had bitten off more than he could chew. Currently, his charge was sitting to the right of him and quietly drinking the tea that the lady mother had provided. He could feel lord Sesshomaru approaching but he wouldn't arrive until a minute or more. He held back a sigh and accepted the offered tea, slowly inhaling its scent in hopes that it would help calm him.
It seemed like every day something was happening that just couldn't be held off. He had already given his second in command control of his prior duties for the time being, but he didn't want to overwhelm him too much. Not to mention the fact that his charge was being hunted and could apparently be contacted in her dreams. His eye twitched as he thought of the monumental task set in front of him. Keeping her safe.
He liked her, he really did, but even he knew someone just had to have cursed her with misfortune. There was no way that she could be this trouble prone. How had she stayed alive this long for kami's sake? When he had met her friends, they had been awfully unsurprised at the fact that she was being chased by yurei. He didn't quite know everything they went through, but surely nothing could have topped undead souls and lightning from the kami themselves.
The snap of a door opening had Kuro straightening his already straight back and clearing his features. The only thing Kuro could hear from his lord as he took a seat at the table was the rustling of fabric. H could practically feel Kagome's nerves returning to her, so he spared her and dove right in.
"My lord, my lady," he nodded towards Sesshomaru and Inukimi with a tired smile. "It seems our lady Kagome has a knack for getting herself in trouble." He saw his lord's lips twitch but wisely said nothing on it.
"Indeed she does, continue." The western lord's voice could have been bored to anyone else, but Kuro could hear the whips of amusement that shone underneath.
"I myself do not have knowledge as to what happened to lady Kagome, I was standing guard by her door outside when the clouds darkened overhead, and lightning struck. It was repetitive, almost purposeful. I attempted to enter but could not until a few moments. Lightning lined the doorway, preventing my passage." He turned to look at Kagome who sat fidgeting with her teacup, her eyes down as she refused to meet the gaze of the two inus.
"I was having a dream."
Kuro braced himself mentally before she continued, knowing whatever she was going to say would give him premature greys. He had already received the good news; he didn't dare want to think of the bad.
"Well, go on." Inukimi's impatience almost surprised him, but the lady mother had been acting different as of late. Almost eager for the new adventure life had thrown at her.
"Ah, yeah. Uhm, well I woke up in a forest. I didn't recognize it and I wasn't sure how I got there." Kagome shuddered. "It was dark, but that wasn't really the bad part. All I saw at first were eyes. They seemed so...empty and lifeless. My powers didn't work either, so when they didn't do anything but watch, I continued."
Kuro closed his eyes and took another swing from his tea. Already off to a bad start, worse than he thought as well.
"I had to get close to a few, there were so many. And I realized why they seemed so empty." Kagome lowered her head, her black hair falling in waves. She swallowed and raised her glowing blue eyes, giving him a sheepish smile. "I think you can guess, the yurei managed to find me somehow."
No, no he could not have possibly guessed that. He met the hard eyes of his lord and Kuro winced. Now Sesshomaru held no amusement.
"They did not attack? Just followed?"
He looked towards the lady mother and back at Kagome who nodded, tucking her hair behind her ear.
"Yes, though only with their eyes. Their bodies never moved, that's why I did." The demoness nodded and motioned for her to continue.
"I'm not too sure what happened next or how, but suddenly I was surrounded by them on all sides. In front of me they moved away, and I saw the entrance of a cave."
"Was this the same cave you mentioned to me before?" He interrupted her; his brows furrowed in worry. He hoped not.
"Yes, I'm pretty sure."
Of course. Kuro ran a hand down his face before remembering himself and straightening. "My apologies, continue on my lady." She gave him a warm smile and turned back to look down at her tea.
"Well, as you can imagine that's when the yurei decided to start moving," she gave a dry chuckle. "They were kind of encouraging me to go in, I didn't really have much of a choice."
Kuro could see the tense set of Sesshomaru's shoulders, his clawed hand gripping the teacup precariously tight.
"Before I knew what happened, I was surrounded by a barrier made of lightning. It was cool after I got over the panic of being burnt to a crisp. But unfortunately, that made the yurei go crazy and they threw themselves into it. As you can imagine, they didn't really have the strength to make it through." She looked up at each of them, a smile on her face as she continued.
"I was saved, Raiju came to get me out."
Kuro fought for his composure as best as he could, knowing his facade of calm was beginning to slip. He could have very easily not been there to help her and simply done off with her. He felt his blood pulse and he absently wondered if this was how he was going to feel when his daughter started taking suitors. The feeling worsened and he forced himself to close his eyes and relax.
"Well after he came, he got me out of there, but it looks like Raijin didn't know. I kind of feel bad for leaving Raiju there but I was shoved off. Next thing I knew I woke up."
It was the most anticlimactic ending to the story, yet it was such a Kagome thing to happen. At least that's how he heard these situations described by the monk and slayer.
"He threw you off of his familiar? Angry, I presume?" Sesshomaru's voice was tight, but Kuro couldn't place the tone of it. Inukimi glanced at her son and a sly smile spread on her lips. Whatever he wasn't privy to, she was.
"No no, not angry. Though his face is kinda stuck like that I think," she gave a chuckle and shook her head. "He called me little sister, he said I couldn't wander too far in my dreams, said it was dangerous for me right now. Though, I didn't think he didn't like me up until that point. But! I can now say I definitely can't scream when falling through clouds." Kagome laughed before stopping suddenly, realizing she was the only one who found humor in her possible death.
"Guys it's not that bad!"
Shippo, who had been quiet most of the meeting nodded his head sagely, somehow, and agreed. "I think you're right mama, besides so far it's not as bad as when we fought SoUnga."
Kuro choked on his tea. He sputtered, grabbing the attention of all those in the room and he pounded his chest to get the liquid out of his lungs.
"Kuro! Are you okay!?" Kagome's hands flew to his back to rub small circles. He nodded in between his choking and took another sip to calm himself. He cleared his throat and motioned for them to continue.
"Yes, don't," he choked. "Don't worry about me I'm fine." Sometimes he forgot he was a fox of seven tales. This was one of those times, he may as well have been an inexperienced recruit with how he's been acting lately. Kagome gave him another look full of worry before she nodded and stroked her kit's hair.
"Though it could have been better worded," Sesshomaru glanced at him and Kuro fought to regain his composure. "The kit does have a point. It seems this news is good overall, though caution must be had." Sesshomaru exchanged a look with his mother before he continued, tilting his head towards Kagome.
"You must be guarded in your sleep, least have someone in the room with you to help you wake if such a thing occurs again."
Kuro felt a blush raise on his cheeks and he furrowed his brow in worry. "My lord, how...appropriate is this? My mate, well she…" He trailed off, unwilling to finish the sentence. His beautiful mate was kind and understanding, but equally as mischievous. He shuddered to think about her reaction knowing he would have to guard a beautiful female in her sleep. Trust him as she might, even that was a little far.
Inukimi raised her hand in understanding, flicking her long silver hair back with a manicured claw. "Fear not, you are needed in top shape general, your mate being unhappy will hider that. My son and I will share the duty as lord and lady of the palace." The smirk that she had at the end made Kuro weary, though not for himself. He dared a quick glance at his lord in time to see him close his eyes, hiding his emotions.
"This one's mother has a point. You cannot always be everywhere."
Kuro relaxed in relief but felt terribly bad for Kagome all the same. He could almost feel how tense she was, but she nodded with a smile on her face regardless.
"Thank you, I really appreciate it."
Inukimi smiled at her, the edges a little too sharp for Kuro's liking. She was up to something; he had been around her long enough to know at least that.
"Of course, now if you excuse me, Kuro and I will go check on Rin. Come kit, it's been a while since you've played."
Kuro hesitated for a moment, but the sharp look the demoness sent him had him quickly moving. "Of course, lady mother." He bowed towards Kagome, then Sesshomaru before scooping an excited Shippo out of her lap and made for the door. He let Inukimi pass first before he gave a wide-eyed Kagome a reassuring smile.
"We shall await you, my lady." Kuro turned and closed the door, sending her a silent prayer.
"May the lady kagome find her courage."
"Tell me Kuro, what do you think of the new kami?" Green eyes swiveled over to Inukimi as he walked behind her. He glanced down at Shippo who had his tail puffed in indignation. He booped the kit on his knows, motioning for him to stay quiet with a yip. He pouted but sunk back into his arms without a fight.
"She is kind. Though I feel she underestimates herself." He felt Shippo nod, his bright green eyes full of understanding for a kit so young.
"What do you think of this one's son?" Kuro paused mid-step and raised a brow. It was not his palace to question his lord. "My lady?"
The demoness looked back over her shoulder, over her mokomoko and gave him a pointed look. "You know what I speak of. We were not the only ones to see that display at her shrine."
Oh. He swallowed and looked out of a near window, catching the gold light that reflected off of Kagome's new home. Of course he hadn't been, he should have known better.
"Wait, we?" He glanced back at the demoness who had a sly smile on her face, hidden quickly by her fan.
"Of course. I've kept an eye on him for a while now. She makes him happy, yet he is too stubborn to see it."
Kuro was at a loss for words. He had hoped his lord could find love, but he didn't know the extent their relationship went.
"You remember her mortal self, she visited often to care for this one's granddaughter. This one kept an eye on her. That was until, I realized she was far too kind. My energy was better spent elsewhere." Inukimi sighed and began to walk again, her head tilting to the side in thought.
"When I looked back, something happened. This one is not sure when, but somewhere along the way, she managed to ensure my son." She laughed then, the sound coming out like chimes in the wind. "So well might I add, that he cannot even see it."
Kuro was cautiously optimistic. He remembered his own mother, telling him of his love for his mate before even he himself knew. Perhaps there were only things that the fairer sex could see. He had noticed their relationship, but not that deep.
"Kit," Inukimi turned and scooped Shippo out of his arms. He froze before turning into a puddle at her clawed hands running through his hair. "This one is in need of a mischievous and wise fox, are you willing to see to your mother's happiness?"
The kit's green eyes lit up in excitement and he nodded furiously, the golden rainbow his clothes gave off shaking along the floor and wall.
"Very well, then let's go find Rin, she will be most pleased."
He found himself dumbstruck, watching as they walked away whispering to each other about the tricks they could play. For a moment, he began to doubt the lady mother was an inu at all.
"Come Kuro, you are needed also. This will be grand."
A grin ripped across his face as he jogged to catch up. Oh the tricks they would play.
"Good luck, lady Kagome."
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This one was kind of fun to write. I figured I'd do as much as I can in my limited free time (and procrastination time) for you guys since you have all been so supportive and patient with me. Now if you're waiting to read until more chapters are out, I understand too.
A few common questions:
-Where is Inuyasha? Finally mentioned, but you'll have to read more! His current location, the North.
-Why was Inuyasha banished? Hmm I dunno. Just know he can't enter the West for now ;3
-How long has Kagome been in the past? According to her prior constant meetings with Sesshomaru, for quite some time. Especially if he thinks her well enough to possibly be a friend 3. And enough time for her to have trained well and feel confident enough to travel alone.
There's more, but I can't give too much. You all have great questions!
As always, thank you for reading and I hope you continue to enjoy the story.
Please let me know if you see errors, I don't have anyone to look it over for me. Also, suggestions are welcome. I may not reply immediately but when I use them I'll be sure to give credit.
Stay safe and happy holidays 3 You guys rock.
P.S. This may be my longest story yet. But we are FINALY getting somewhere.
