Chapter 7: 鏡法術 Jìng fǎshù

Author's note: Hello everyone, just wanted to give a little history lesson real quick so that there is no confusion. "The continent" is China as I'm sure everyone knows. I will be using references to "Japan" as Nihon, because Nihon, Nippon and Yamato were a few names that the people of Japan called their homeland. the Japanese name for Japan, 日本, can be pronounced either Nihon or Nippon. It wasn't until later that Portuguese missionaries explored their grammar and language publishing Vocabulario da Lingoa de Iapam (Vocabulary of the Language of Japan) in 1603. From there the context was interpreted by many other cultures, warping the pronunciation and becoming many different variations of Japan. The original name Nihon or Nippon means "land of the rising sun" because from China's view that is where "Japan" was located, hence the sun on their flag. Nihon and Nippon have been in continuous use from as early as 660 B.C., the birth of the Japanese state. -Also the title of this chapter is traditional Chinese for "Mirror Spell."-

~Sesshomaru~

Sesshomaru left Ameki and Jaken both in the village. Where Sesshomaru was going, it would be safer for the both of them. Jaken had wailed in disapproval over Sesshomaru's decision, but all it took was one wry glance from Sesshomaru to change Jaken's tune. Sesshomaru had departed three days earlier, and had told them that he would return within a weeks time. Without having to slow his pace for Ameki, he was able to make the journey how he seen fit. He took to the sky, and relished the feel of the wind that embraced him in welcoming.

Sesshomaru's plans were simple. He would travel to the west coast and meet with his connections from the continent. They were Yokai such as Sesshomaru, but in their homeland they were called Yaoguai. Sesshomaru's father, Inu No Taisho, had once battled a demon from the continent. Many demon's actually, but so very few had been worth mentioning. One in particular that had posed a threat had been Hyoga. Hyoga was an ancient moth demon who sought to ensnare and devour the human souls of Nihon. After his defeat, centuries later, Menomaru later rose from his body and sought to do the same. InuYasha and his friends had been the ones to seal Menomaru's fate. The west provinces of Nihon were protected by Sesshomaru, and his allies helped him secure the west coast to avoid such happenings in the future. Jiaolong, Yakunan, had made his appearance not long after Naraku's defeat.

In hindsight, Sesshomaru pondered the irony of his current situation. His father had many allies in Nihon and his influence had even reached the continent. The Great dog General had left merely two swords and an honorable reputation for his son's. Sesshomaru had spent most of his life trying to surpass his father, and taking the western provinces as his domain, as lord to those demons that resided within them. This also meant the foreign demons that resided on his coast. Many of them still stood in support of Sesshomaru, and he was about to use that to his advantage. He needed an upper hand on Yakunan and to do so, he would need to understand Yakunan's plan. He needed to view the bigger picture.

Sesshomaru arrived on the Island of Oki. It was the closest bordering island to the west coast, but still much farther away from the land of Musashi than he wanted to be. He knew this had been where Yakunan had started his inquiry into the past events surrounding Naraku. He had learned of Sesshomaru's involvement, his obsession, and set in motion the chain of events that had led to war. A war that Yakunan had intended to create, weakening all of Sesshomaru's allies so that he could bring some of his own allies to Nihon.

Sesshomaru knew this would be the best place to start looking for more information. If not, then he would have to travel farther South, which would take more time. In his father's years of reigning over the land in his pure form, the western coast had been overrun by demons from the continent. By the end of Inu No Taisho's life, things had settled. His compassion for humans had won, and agreements were brought forth. Hyoga had been one such demon that had disobeyed the agreements and went against the Great Dog General. After the demon's became more organized over time, they kept to the small islands off shore of Nihon and traveled inland at will, but were warned that any trouble would lead to destruction. However, Sesshomaru knew of many demons that had disregarded the agreements arranged by his late father. Oki, Tsushima, Iki and many other island provinces were now more than just homes for demons fleeing the continent. Black markets, populated the many islands, but it was more than just that to Sesshomaru. It would be where he would find his answers.

Oki was a rather large Island, suitable for a demon trade hub. Many new faces entered his view as he walked the roads he hadn't traveled in at least two centuries. The first time he had visited had been with his father, long before his infatuation with the human princess Izayoi. He had been much younger, and far more arrogant than he was in his current mindset. Seeing these foreign demons bowing to his father's rule had done wonders for his pride, but now he simply didn't care. As long as they did not disturb the order he was trying to maintain in his land such as Yakunan had, then he would let them continue with their trades. For now he wanted information, and he knew exactly where to find it.

Laquan was a well respected demoness from the continent. She had three other sisters, but she was the oldest. Laquan was a living vessel for all things related to spring. Her sisters, who remained on the continent, were manifested representations of the other seasons. Laquan had left the continent long ago due to the untimely demise of her daughter, and found sanctuary from the events that had transpired. She had long ago been a loyal ally to Inu No Taisho, and an advisor in situations concerning Hyoga.

Sesshomaru kept a steady pace as he made his way to the hidden grove on the outskirts of the port bustle. The grove served as a place where Laquan could have her solitude. The place was lavish with flowers and blossoming trees. The area surrounding the grove dulled in comparison to the green grass that splayed the ground like a natural rug. In the nook of the hillside was a trickling spring that welled from the depths of the stone, cascading into a miniature waterfall. The area was covered in a thick ivy that hung from the rocks. A single gourd hung from the tangled mess of vines. Sesshomaru halted his steps a few feet from the gourd. A small hole was present, as if it had been hollowed out to serve as a bird nest.

"Laquan, your services are needed." Sesshomaru voiced in a low tone. He waited only a few moments before the entrance of the gourd illuminated to a bright white glow from a deep black. A material vapor began pouring out of the gourd as a small sprite exited. The sprite slowly approached the area where Sesshomaru stood. He examined the small white light as it closed in. The sprite hastened its speed and circled Sesshomaru a few times before settling into a less erratic pace and transforming in front of him. Sesshomaru could make out a figure forming in the bright light that grew in intensity. Long crimson hair came into view, splaying across his vision in the invisible wind. As the bright light dimmed, Sesshomaru found Emerald eyes gazing back into his amber ones.

"I've been expecting you Sesshomaru, granted I thought you would have appeared to me long before now." Laquan was an ancient demon, but her youthful appearance made her seem if she were merely a woman in her prime. Sesshomaru knew the docile nature that Laquan held was what had caused her to flee the continent in the first place. War had taken her daughter, and driven her from her home. However, where Laquan lacked in motivation for combat, she made up with vast amounts of wisdom and knowledge. Sesshomaru nodded in reply, knowing full well that Laquan was familiar with the reason he had came.

"Jiaolong." She stated.

"Or as you know him, Yakunan." Sesshomaru didn't nod or even acknowledge that she had been right.

"He's not as ancient as his predecessors, but he is a formidable one." Laquan motioned for Sesshomaru to walk with her. He followed as she tended to her natural garden. With a touch of her fingertip bushes bloomed, and wilting flowers seemed to reverse their flow of life, becoming vibrant once more.

"So tell me, Son of the Great Dog General, what is it that you wish to know about the dragon in our midst?" Her emerald eyes found his direction once more, and she scanned his features.

"I want to know the extent of his power." Sesshomaru answered. Laquan raised a perfectly groomed brow.

"Anything in particular, or do you just want to know what the horned dragon's are capable of in general?" Sesshomaru hesitated hearing her question. How was he supposed to answer a question that would reveal his intent to save a mortal woman? Laquan had never looked down on his father for eventually falling in love with a mortal woman, but Sesshomaru didn't want to give the impression that he was following in his father's footsteps. His pride gnawed at him. He was standing in front of someone that held the respect of many demons, and about to reveal that he was on a similar path his father had taken, one that had led to Inu No Taisho's demise.

"Yakunan has placed a mark upon someone." Sesshomaru vaguely answered her question with a statement. Laquan raised both eyebrows, curiosity filling her features.

"I assume by someone you mean a mortal?" She didn't wait on gauging a response from him, she knew any attempt would be futile.

"I only ask because you seem to need the knowledge." She turned her attention back to the flowers before her and continued talking.

"Dragon's are a particularly mischievous and unpredictable kind. It's usually better to have them on your side." She moved a few paces ahead and focused her physical attention on the flora before them, while continuing her mental recollection.

"The horned dragon's in particular have long been known for their unquenchable thirst that is destruction. When not waging wars against others, they often relish the pain and misery that is often felt by mortals in times of war. In my homeland the dark horned dragon's are often seen residing within the smoke filled regions of battle." Laquan turned her full attention back to Sesshomaru who had been listening to her words.

"The horned dragon's are viewed as God's of War to humans that wish to taste domination. Their presence within the heat of battle have been seen as an omen and many worship them. Some mortals go as far as zealotry to gain the Horned dragon's favor in war, receiving a mark that brandishes them with immortality while on the mark can be placed onto any mortal willing or not, but the dragon's usually only give the mark to those that wish to gain their favor." Laquan tilted her head slightly letting her eyes wander as she spoke.

"It's not to say that they wouldn't force the mark onto someone, but that requires a much more complex use of power, one that's dark and quiet taboo among most dragon's now days." She paused and shook her head.

"I can't say for sure that Yakunan would possess such knowledge considering he is merely a young dragon." She looked contemplatively at Sesshomaru.

Sesshomaru reflected on Laquan's words. He knew that Ameki would not have willingly accepted the mark. He was sure that she was unaware of its presence, and as far as he could tell, she had no recollection of what had happened to her in the woods when Yakunan had taken her life.

"Care to elaborate how something like this could have happened if the person had not been willing?" Sesshomaru steadied his gaze, trying not to let too much emotion slip into his demeanor.

"Sesshomaru…" Laquan straightened her posture and matched his expression.

"You reek of shame, its unfitting for one such as yourself." Sesshomaru could feel an inner twitch as she spoke.

"Protecting a human is not a weakness. Your feelings toward humans stem from the changes you witnessed in your father. He died protecting the mortal woman he loved, and your grudge toward mortals was born because he did not live to see you rise in power. You did not get your chance to defeat him." Sesshomaru didn't try to hide the frown that creased his brow as she spoke. Her eyes pierced him as if she had been reading his life clearly written from a scroll.

"Did you ever stop to think, that your father only grew in power trying to constantly protect something so fragile and easily erased from this plain of existence? He may have died, but he was not weak. Do you know of any other demon, besides your father, that could have sustained such injuries and continued fighting?" Sesshomaru's claws dug into the skin of his palms as Laquan spoke to him as if he were a child.

"Your father's fate had been sealed by Ryukotsusei, and any actions he took thereafter were simply his dying wishes, things he needed to do before his departure from this world." Her eyes narrowed and her lips thinned in a stern expression.

"You seek knowledge from me, but don't share knowledge of the situation in which my imparted knowledge could aid. I won't force it out of you, I just want you to know that just because most demons couldn't possibly find themselves affiliated with humans doesn't mean I am the same way. There is a reason why those demons that do not respect mortal existence are not as strong as you or your father" The stern look she had given Sesshomaru faded and was replaced by a warm smile. Laquan had said her peace as if she had been counseling Sesshomaru's father all over again. Memories of their first meeting quickly surfaced and disappeared as Sesshomaru relaxed. The lecture he had dreaded and tried to avoid was over. He had not completely ignored her words though, they would however, be something to ponder another time.

"I do not wish to speak of such things. I merely wish to understand what is happening." Laquan slightly shrugged and let out a small sigh.

"Very well Sesshomaru." She closed her eyes and opened them, revealing a hazy green glow from the very depths that Sesshomaru had not noticed before.

"In ancient times the horned dragons rebelled against other types of dragons. In my culture the dragons were beings of balance, all of them maintained counterparts. The dragon's of destruction rebelled against the dragons of creation. The difference being that destruction was of demonic nature, and creation of celestial. The land was simply a battleground and the mortals were pawns. Life continued by will of creation, and life was taken by will of destruction. The Celestial dragon's would create ways for life to sustain existence, but this angered the horned dragons. The Jiaolong as we know them now, horned dragons, continued to kill the mortals marking them upon death and claiming their souls so that the afterlife would not send them into the currents of time to be reborn. They used these marked souls and eventually returned them back to life as thralls. The extent of power they had over them was limited however, because the balance of creation that constantly influenced everything around us still had domain over anything living. The marking of the souls was merely a way to stop the cycle of life in an attempt to weaken the celestial dragons." Laquan finished speaking, the dim green glow slowly disappeared from her eyes, returning them to the deep emerald color that had been present before. Sesshomaru had listened, and dissected each word with deep thought. This explained the mark, but she hadn't gone into detail pertaining to Yakunan's abilities over the marked individual. Sesshomaru inwardly sighed and spoke.

"The woman that was marked has shown signs of some kind of physical link to Yakunan." Laquan arched an eyebrow at Sesshomaru's words. She almost looked as if she were ready to emphasize on his use of revealing words, but slightly shook her head and steered her response from Sesshomaru's clearly stated individual.

"I'm guessing by that you mean the Jìng fǎshù. It's a common effect that is sometimes exhibited through the link of the dragon and the one marked. It's a mirror spell so to speak and usually is only formed when the marked individual suffered great trauma before death. The ancient horned dragon's used it to sustain their own livelihood when in battle with the celestials. It transfers damage inflicted onto the horned dragon to their thrall. Once a certain threshold is reached the thrall dies negating the damage dealt to the horned dragon. This effect only works one way. The horned dragons created many thralls and plagued the land with torture increasing the possibility that the Jìng fǎshù would form upon revival. A mark that was placed onto a willing person can be removed because they did not have to die to receive it, but a mark that was forcefully forged cannot be removed because the horned dragon has marked their soul upon death." Laquan's features took on a grim expression as she spoke.

"Yakunan killed this woman you know, and I assume you used Tenseiga to revive her?" Laquan's grim expression changed to one of more serious nature. Sesshomaru nodded.

"What were the results? Did the Tenseiga bring her back?" Sesshomaru sorted his memories and recalled the moments following his strike with tenseiga.

"The Tenseiga did not seem to have an affect on her. The technique I used was precise, but the effects should have been instantaneous." Sesshomaru remembered the strange events that happened after attempting to bring Ameki back. Yakunan had later shared his involvement, explaining that he had allowed her to return to the land of the living. Laquan's detailed recollection had shed some light on how that was possible, but what did that mean for Tenseiga's abilities? Had it worked or not?

"If you used the Tenseiga to kill the couriers of the underworld then I'm afraid that the chances of being able to do it again are non existent, even if Yakunan was the one who allowed her soul to return." Laquan sighed and turned her gaze toward the ground, lowering her voice to a softened tone.

"The horned dragon's abilities to bring the marked souls back lays within destroying the underworld's hold on them, just as tenseiga does. The results are the same either way I suppose. The ability can only be used once because of the balance of nature. Returning someone to life once is already pushing boundaries, returning them to life anymore after that would upset the balance."

Laquan's eyes narrowed.

"Although there is one bit of information that could possibly ease your troubles." Sesshomaru stood unmoving, still processing the previous realizations that threatened his calm demeanor.

"The mark given to the unwilling still holds the powers bequeathed unto those who received it willingly. In essence wounds inflicted directly to her will heal quickly, she is less likely to be inflicted with human diseases and…" Laquan paused, most likely adding dramatics to her revelation.

"Her lifespan has been significantly increased as well. Provided Yakunan doesn't sustain a mortal wound or get killed this could give you time to find the solution you are looking for, but alas, I do not have those answers." She paused once again, squinting her eyes slightly.

"The staff I gave your father, the Nintojo, could aid you in your search. I assume the staff is ultimately what led you to uncovering the secrets of your father's hidden resting place." Sesshomaru inwardly sighed. The staff of two heads had exhausted its usefulness to him once he had found the Tessaiga, only to learn that he could not wield the sword. The staff had been stashed away where only Sesshomaru and Inu No Taisho knew. Sesshomaru had decided in the end that his father had wanted Sesshomaru to lead InuYasha there, in one of his many attempts to bring the brothers together. Sesshomaru had given the staff to Jaken, so that his vassal could use it to serve him. It had never occurred to him that the staff would have more uses to him.

"The woman screams whenever you have been misled, but the man laughs when your path is clear." Laquan had given the staff to his father when she had learned that his mortal mistress was expecting. Inu No Taisho had sought knowledge to help him and Totosai forge the legendary swords. The staff's abilities had completely slipped Sesshomaru's mind. Maybe Sesshomaru had been a little obsessed with finding Naraku, and he could have easily found him sooner if his pride and resentment toward the Tessaiga dilemma hadn't blinded him to the true uses of the staff of two heads.

Sesshomaru slowly nodded closing his eyes, and turning his body sideways in a gesture to signify his departure.

"Didn't you want to know more about Yakunan's abilities?" Sesshomaru opened his eyes and glanced back toward Laquan.

"Did you tell me everything about the mark?" A small smile played at the corners of Laquan's lips.

"Everything that I am aware of Lord Sesshomaru." She slightly chuckled.

"I'm going to assume that is all you wanted to know then…" She gave Sesshomaru a knowing look. He couldn't fool the Ancient demoness of Spring. Afterall, it was her job to be connected to everything around her. It's how she influenced nature, and nature ultimately tells all.

"I'll be on my way Laquan." Sesshomaru began to walk away but stopped. There was one detail he wished to mention to her. It only seemed right since she had imparted her knowledge to him without anything in exchange.

"Laquan…" Without turning he spoke.

"Zhao Lun is in Yakunan's company." He thought back to the demon he had only glimpsed at. A demon that had terrorized Nihon once before in the past. Zhao Lun had come to Nihon in search of Laquan in the days that his father ruled the western skies. Zhao Lun had been the one to send Laquan's daughter to Diyu, their culture's "realm of the dead." Laquan's daughter, Yǔ nǚshén, had served as a Deity in many regions on the continent, though demon by nature, she was as docile as Laquan. Many mortals worshipped her for her gift of fertility to the land during trying times. Zhao Lun, being a demon of leaching, fed on the misfortune and famine like the Vulture he was. Yǔ nǚshén fell to Zhao Lun when she had refused to defend herself.

Sesshomaru could hear the the slight clenching of flesh, and the smell of Laquan's blood drew near Sesshomaru on the wind. Sesshomaru turned to glance from the corner of his eye. Laquan stood dead still, the glow had returned to her eyes.

"I'll dispatch him...slowly." Sesshomaru spoke standing still for a few more moments until Laquan slowly nodded her head.

~Ameki~

Ameki awoke in a cold sweat, a searing pain resonated from the back of her neck, causing her to scream out. She grabbed the back of her neck, and at first had felt a rough raised area of flesh, but as she brushed over the area again with her fingertips, it was smooth. She had imagined it, just as her mind had dreamed up countless images that she had wished to forget. Some of the things that had presented themselves in her dreams seemed foreign to her waking mind, but the unconscious state she had previously been in had made them feel familiar. The image of the scaled demon appeared more than once, as if he had been watching her from a distance as she hurried away from the burning castle. She caught images of him flitting through the crowded battle zone. She had seen his eyes peer through the ogre that had chased her. He had stood in front of her, his fiery eyes were only magnified by the dark contrast of his scales against pale skin. He terrified her, and this seemed to thoroughly please him.

Ameki quickly pulled herself together as she caught sight of the candle light coming through the Straw curtain of her doorway. Kagome gently pulled the curtain aside and looked in, the candlelight illuminated her worried features. Ameki did her best to conjure a smile for the miko. This had become a habit for Ameki, and she felt terrible that it was because of her that Kagome wore such a worried expression. Kagome had invited her into her home and let her stay in her daughter's unused room, but in return Ameki had only repaid her with nightly wake up calls due to her recurring nightmares. It had only been about a week since Sesshomaru had left, but Jaken had informed her that Sesshomaru usually took much longer than his given estimates.

Ameki could hear the bare steps of InuYasha's feet as he left the house. This was normally a habit for him as well. Kagome explained that InuYasha was simply doing his nightly rounds, but Ameki found it slightly odd that he seemed to always do it when she had awoken from one of her night terrors. Ameki felt that she was bothering Sesshomaru's brother, but Kagome had done everything to reassure her that this was not the case. She explained that it was something that InuYasha used to do for Akio. When Akio would have a bad dream, InuYasha would often go off on a patrol to assure her that nothing would harm her or Kagome. It was his way to show sympathy without seeming too soft. It would seem that even though InuYasha and Sesshomaru were considerably different, their pride had been one in the same.

"Another dream dear?" Kagome stepped into the room as she spoke.

"I'm afraid so. Though Sango explained that witnessing something horrible could cause this to happen." Kagome nodded her head in agreement as Ameki spoke.

"I'm sorry you had to witness the things that happened. I can't say that it will get any easier, but I do believe you will get stronger and be able to cope with it better in the future." Kagome smiled warmly at Ameki. Ameki returned the smile and slightly shifted under her blanket.

"That may be so, but for now it's still fresh to me and I'm sorry that I keep waking the two of you like this." Ameki's smile faded quickly into a frown.

"Nonsense, This old bladder needed a break from sleep anyways." Kagome chuckled.

"When I'm done taking care of that I'll wash up and make some tea to help calm those nerves." Kagome turned to leave but Ameki protested.

"Oh please no. Don't go out of your way to try and comfort me. The tea isn't necessary." Kagome dismissed Ameki's guilt ridden plea and walked out of the room. There was no convincing Kagome when she had her mind set on something, and Ameki was learning that very quickly.

Three more days past. Ameki spent most of those days tending the herb garden that Kagome had. The knowledge of herbs and their medicinal properties had imprinted on Ameki's mind, and she was sure that she could put the knowledge to use in aiding the villagers if ever Kagome found herself over encumbered with work. She enjoyed the feeling of being useful for once. She had been a princess, a very important role for someone within a court, but her duties had been quite lacking where involving herself with people was concerned. Sure her late father had hosted dinner and festivities, and even her uncle had planned a few events where her presence was needed, but she had never really been able to find something that felt meaningful. She only wished to help make change instead of watching things change around her as she seemingly stood still.

Jaken wasn't too much help in Ameki's pursuits of the mind. He mostly sat under a shade tree and yearned for the return of his master. Ameki learned very quickly that the imps fascination with Lord Sesshomaru was bordering obsession. It was very unhealthy for what little personal life Jaken had, if he had one at all. She had tried to convince him numerous times that waiting for Sesshomaru would only make time pass much more slowly. She simply wanted the little imp to keep his mind busy so that maybe he wouldn't worry so much. She could have sworn that his already wrinkled appearance had taken on a few more worry creases. Such was the way Jaken wished to continue his days, and so Ameki had finally given up.

Mid afternoon on the fourth day, Ameki had decided to broaden her horizons concerning the village. She wanted to get out and meet the people that resided within her new home. Spending her days in Kagome's herb garden had sufficed as entertainment and Kagome had taught her many things concerning current medicinal trends, but what Ameki needed now was to feel like she was a part of something, and to do that she would need to get herself involved in something. She walked around the market area, observing the many stalls that lined the streets. It wasn't nearly as big as the market districts she had grown up around, but it was definitely abuzz with life. Women rushed around with baskets buying produce from farmers that looked as if they had received less sleep than Ameki herself. Children played games of tag and Ameki had even seen a small group of children hiding among the many wares that merchants sat on display. She noticed a girl counting as she held her eyes shut. When she had counted to twenty she had opened her eyes and scurried off, immediately finding a small boy that had attempted to hide underneath a low lying table. Their giddy giggles filled Ameki's heart with a feeling of warmth.

Ameki soon found herself at Sango's house. Sango sat outside Polishing something huge that was oddly shaped. Ameki quietly approached, not wanting to disturb her. Sango's keen senses immediately detected her and ruined Ameki's intent on observing.

"Ah, Hello Ameki." She beamed up at the girl from her sitting position on a stone.

"What brings you here today?" Ameki paused before answering.

"I thought it would do me some good to get out and explore a bit." Ameki smiled back at Sango.

"Fresh air and bustling streets can do wonders for a busy mind." She gave Ameki a knowing glance. No doubt Kagome had talked to her about her night terrors.

"Ah, yes. For the last couple of days I've kind of stayed close to Kagome's home. I thought maybe I could get out and meet some new people, see if I could help anyone." Ameki giggled awkwardly.

"It seems though that everyone is pretty busy, and I'm not really sure how to start a conversation." Sango nodded as Ameki spoke.

"It can be hard adjusting to new surroundings and new people. I promise though that the people in this village are a one of a kind. I don't think you'll find a mean bone amongst them all." Sango paused and tilted her head, a wry expression surfacing.

"That is if you don't count InuYasha. He can be a bit of a bone head when he wants to be." Sango began laughing and Ameki joined with a small giggle. InuYasha often stomped around like a child when him and Kagome had disagreements. InuYasha often mentioned something called Ninja food, that would instantly set Kagome off. This usually ended with InuYasha not eating, and storming out of the house like a dog that had been scolded. Pun intended.

"If you don't mind me asking…" Ameki began.

"What is that?" She motioned to the hulking object that Sango continued to polish.

"This is my weapon of choice. The Hiraikotsu." Ameki could feel the questioning look spread across her features as she tried to determine how such an object could be used as a weapon. She had seen many weapons before, but none had even resembled the "Hiraikotsu." She wondered if maybe it was used as a shield of sorts, but in more of a bashing manner, considering Sango had mentioned it was a weapon.

"How do you use it?" Ameki asked. Her curiosity got the better of her, and her conversation with Sango so far had been the most promising social interaction she had received all day. Secretly she wanted Sango to humor her on the subject, even if it was just a plea for her to be able to socialize with someone.

Sango halted her rhythmic motions, setting the cloth she'd been using beside her.

"I could explain how its used, or…" She smiled a sideways grin.

"I could show you. I'm not as nimble as I was in my youth, but I won't let a little aging ware me out of shape." She stood, letting the leather strap slide over her torso securing the Hiraikotsu against her back. She made it seem effortless, but something about the bone like material led Ameki to believe that the weapon itself was actually very heavy. Ameki was quite impressed with Sango's strength alone.

They made their way through the fields and down a path to a heavily wooded forest area. Sango stopped, halting Ameki in her tracks.

"This looks like a good a place as any. You might want to step back a little. The swinging radius is rather large. Wouldn't want to accidentally hit you. Jaken would never let me hear the end of it, and I dread to even think of what I would have to put up with concerning Sesshomaru." Sango winked toward the retreating Ameki and nodded when she was comfortable with her distance. Ameki watched as Sango gripped the leather strap and leaned the large weapon in a slanted position on the ground adjacent to her. Sango's left foot snaked out with surprising speed granting her the pull she needed to thrust the large weapon with only her right arm, sending it airborne in one sweeping motion. The once odd shaped weapon now appeared to spin giving it the appearance of a circle with the fast motion as it blurred speeding toward the trees that were splayed out in the distance. Ameki's hand found her mouth that was now agape with disbelief. The weapon didn't lodge into the base of the tree as Ameki had assumed it would, instead it cut through the thick tree sending a loud cracking noise that echoed off of the near trees. It didn't stop there or even seem to lose momentum upon impact. It cut through three more rather large trees before the arcing motion returned it back on a path that was headed directly for Sango. Ameki gasped as the weapon soared through the air returning to the position where it had been dispatched. Sango's relaxed form jumped into action at the last moment before Ameki had feared the weapon would collide with her. Sango grabbed the strap seamlessly from thin air, and Ameki watched as the weapon found its previous position as Sango's catch halted its movement instantaneously slightly causing Sango's frame to slide backwards in the dirt upon impact. Sango now held the hairakotsu against her back, holding the leather strap over her shoulder.

Ameki was in complete awe at what she had witnessed. Sango had found Ameki's expression to be quite funny considering the laughter that erupted from her as she glanced back to glimpse at the frozen girl before her. She quickly recovered from the fit of laughter, returning the strap around her torso and fitting the weight of the hiraikotsu onto her back.

"Now we just need to drag InuYasha out here to hack up this wood. It will make for a nice little stockpile to have on hand." Ameki shook herself from the shock that tried to petrify her. The thought of InuYasha hacking up the tree with his sword sent Ameki into her own little fit of giggles.

Upon returning to the village Sango caught a glimpse of her husband Miroku and gave an irritated sigh. The graying monk watched as a group of young women browsed the wares he had placed at his own market stall just outside of his and Sango's home. The many sutras that decorated the surface of the table were neatly organized, and talismans hung from the tables edge. The girls cooed over a talisman that Ameki recognized as a love charm of sorts. She had seen many girls from her home village wear the charms in hopes of finding a husband. Sango's voice broke Ameki's train of thought.

"I had hoped that one day he would go bald. That would fix at least half of the problem. Once a lecher, always a lecher." She turned toward Ameki and smiled.

"I knew what I was getting into though when I agreed to marry him." Ameki looked back to where Miroku smiled dreamily at the young women before him. No doubt Miroku was still trying to live in his glory days, when his features had been more youthful, and his hair had been the color of midnight. The women didn't seem to mind his seasoned appearance, and Ameki had to admit that he did indeed hold a certain attractiveness that was probably groomed from many years of physical training.

Ameki recalled the stories that Sango and Kagome had shared with her. Miroku was a powerful monk all on his own and had been a womanizer in most of his youth, but he had admittedly slowed down on the browsing once Sango had entered his life. Not completely, Sango had hastily shared. His family had been cursed by the demon Naraku, and a wind tunnel had been placed in his right hand. The wind tunnel had the ability to suck demons into a void where they were no longer able to trouble this world, but with that kind of power was hidden a much darker fate. The wind tunnel would eventually grow in size, unrepairable after a certain point sucking the one cursed with it into the void as well. Miroku's father and grandfather had suffered that fate, and Miroku had lived for years with the knowledge of what would happen to him looming over every choice he made. She could understand why a man that had known his fate had lived the way he did. He had been trying to live his life to the fullest, but what was his excuse now? Something told Ameki that the teasing grin he sent in Sango's direction meant that his efforts were to simply rile her up.

Ameki said her goodbye to Sango and thanked her for her earlier display of the Hiraikotsu's ability. She knew Sango had more pressing matters on her mind at the moment and decided to part ways. On her way back through the village she caught sight of Jaken. Well, she heard the shriek that had drawn her attention toward the direction he was in.

"Has anyone seen that foolish girl?" His whines had caused Ameki to physically restrain herself from rolling her eyes. When she had left Jaken he had been lost in thought. She didn't think that the imp would have noticed her absence, but clearly he had snapped back to reality from mulling over Sesshomaru's return. She let out a small sigh and made her way toward the imp that was frantically searching the market area.

"Master Jaken?" Ameki raised her voice so that she could easily be heard over the constant chatter that filled the market place.

"Oh, Ameki!" Jaken spun on his small foot and marched toward her, his furrowed brow seemed much lower than normal, meaning she was about to receive one of his famous lectures on disobedience. However, this was only partially the case.

"Girl, you are lucky that Lord Sesshomaru didn't tear apart this village looking for you!" Jaken voiced rather loudly, causing a few heads in the crowd to turn. Murmurs broke out around them, replacing the rather joyous sounds of laughter that had previously filled the area.

"Master Jaken, please!" Ameki motioned her hands in a downward position, hoping that the imp would take the hint to lower his voice. Ameki had wanted to be involved in social matters, not become the center of town gossip.

"Are you shushing me woman?" The imp threw his small hands into the air and let out an exasperated cry.

"The audacity!" He feigned surprise and frustration in his over dramatic way. Ameki started walking, and pushed the loud imp along with her. She could feel the awkward way people's eyes followed her. She awkwardly smiled to a few of them, and hid her face quickly to hide her embarrassment.

When she was sure that they were out of eye sight and ear shot of the market rabble she stopped, releasing her hold on Jaken as well.

"What do you think you are doing Ameki?!" He yelled. Ameki let out a loud sigh and mentally made a list that she was all too eager to recite to Jaken. However, she settled for a simple answer.

"You don't yell about demons destroying villages in such a populated place! It can cause panic!" Ameki's eyes were spread into a wide stare as she tried to convince the small imp of what he had done wrong.

"Why should I lie? Lord Sesshomaru is very capable of turning this village upside down. He could wipe it off the map if he simply wanted to." Jaken narrowed his eyes accusingly toward Ameki.

"I'm sure he could master Jaken, but he hasn't. I guess that means he has returned?" Ameki tried to change the subject knowing that Jaken's impassioned views of Lord Sesshomaru were about to get them into some trouble.

"Of course he's returned you idiot. Did you think he would just abandoned his most loyal servant?" Ameki creased her brow slightly, staring down at Jaken's surprised and arrogant stance he had taken while calling her an idiot.

"Alright then, where is he?" Ameki asked. Jaken frowned.

"Well he's waiting near InuYasha's hut, by the steps up to the Shrine. Someone such as Lord Sesshomaru would never walk among the lowly peasants within this village." Jaken's words slightly irritated Ameki's quickly slipping patience.

"He didn't seem to mind taking in a peasant orphan…" Ameki voiced as she pushed by the little green imp.

Ameki knew that Jaken's words were simply biased by his love for his master, and maybe that was truly how Jaken felt about his master. However, Ameki had glimpsed at a different side of Sesshomaru, one that Jaken didn't seem to notice.

She raced past a few houses, and a few smaller fields towards the North Western side of the village with hastened steps. When she neared the few houses she approached she slowed her pace, catching her breath. She continued walking at a slower pace, not wanting to seem as if she had been in a hurry. Of course she didn't want to keep Lord Sesshomaru waiting, but she didn't want to look as if she had been rushing to meet him. She paused for a moment, her thoughts halting where they ventured to. She did miss the Dog Demon. She hadn't realized it, but something within her was excited that he had returned. He rarely spoke, and always seemed to be deep in thought, but his eyes spoke Volumes to Ameki. He said more with his eyes than Jaken often spouted from his pointy pruned lips. She had also felt safe with Sesshomaru. He was clearly an extremely powerful demon, and had shown no intent to harm her in the beginning. He was a very intimidating man. Tall, beautiful and well shaped muscles for his medium build. The most intimidating factor about him would probably be the strange tattoo's that lined his cheek bone and cheeks. There were two stripes on each side. The deep Magenta color really popped against the smooth pale skin that almost made him seem otherworldly.

She caught sight of the arch leading up to the Shrine. She had half expected Sesshomaru to be standing on top like InuYasha often did, but she caught sight of fur, sticking out away from one of the columns as she came closer. Sesshomaru was standing on the steps observing the few people that dared gawk at him from the doorway of a house on the other side of Kagome's herb garden. His eyes were slightly narrowed, but upon Ameki's slow approach his expression seemingly softened.

"Lord Sesshomaru." She gave a small bow in greeting as she came to a halt a few feet from the stairs where he stood. Jaken's small legs had not been able to keep up with the long strides that Ameki had taken in an effort to distance herself from him. His blatant disregard of the people around him was completely selfish, and she had needed to quell her instincts to step on him the way she had when they had first met. Sesshomaru nodded in her direction.

"I hope your journey was well my Lord?" Sesshomaru didn't answer, instead he turned his attention toward the ancient forest that had once held InuYasha's slumbering form, bound to a tree by the Miko who's shrine occupied the top landing of the stairs. He descended the three steps to the ground and began walking. Ameki followed.

Their walk through the field was rather quiet. Ameki didn't know what to say to Sesshomaru, considering he wasn't really the talking type. Instead she cast her attention to the workers that worked the rice fields. A shallow layer of water stood in the fields in sections. The makeshift bamboo irrigation system that weaved through the field was being repaired by a few men that had turned their attention to gawk at Lord Sesshomaru. Sesshomaru didn't take notice of their surprised stares or hushed whispers. Whatever they had whispered was sure to have reached Sesshomaru's sensitive hearing, but he didn't seem to care.

Upon reaching the forest, Ameki noticed Ah-Un lazing about a small clearing. A few bags were attached to the two headed beast. One head took notice of her, bringing the other's attention to her as well. She walked up to the beast and gently patted the scaled hide that always seemed cool to the touch. Sesshomaru stopped and almost looked as if he was prepared to say something, but decided against it. Ameki soon realized what was most likely about to happen. Why else would Sesshomaru have returned other than to retrieve Jaken? Sesshomaru was going to say goodbye, and why shouldn't he? It wasn't like she was a small child that constantly needed his protection. The thought did sadden her. He was after all, a piece of her mother's past that Ameki had just recently discovered. He was a demon, probably one of the strongest in the lands, and he had a war to finish. Ameki knew that her place would be in the village from now on, but she didn't want to chance not ever seeing the man that had saved her life. She thought fondly of the dog demon that was now before her in complete silence.

"You came back for Jaken?" Sesshomaru slowly nodded.

"I guess that means you will be leaving again soon?" Sesshomaru's guided gaze found Ameki's hands that nervous fiddled with the front of her obi.

"Yes." He answered coolly. Ameki released the material of her obi, and let her hands fall to her sides.

"Is this Goodbye?" Sesshomaru met her gaze once more, a slightly quizzical note entered his eyes.

"I mean, will you return or… It's not like I expect you to, or want you to…" She blushed.

"That came out wrong my Lord. What I mean is that I don't feel inclined to deserve your presence or anything. I realize that it's a privilege. I'll forever be grateful for you saving me, and arranging my mother's resting place." Ameki could feel the heat in her cheeks, her next words came out with a slight quiver.

"Will I ever see you again?" Ameki closed her eyes, realizing that Sesshomaru would likely not answer such a confusing tirade of words, but to her surprise his voice came forth.

"It is not a goodbye." She opened her eyes to look upon Sesshomaru's godlike features. His amber eyes held a soft tone that was usually reserved for moments when her mother's name had been mentioned.

"I will return to ensure that you are safe." Ameki let a small smile creep into her features. She didn't really have a choice considering Sesshomaru's words had caused the instantaneous tugging sensation to envelope the corners of her mouth.

"My Lord, I don't wish to be a burden. I realize how important you are. I would understand if you did not return here." Ameki tried to glaze over her apparent excitement, by reassuring Sesshomaru that she would clearly understand if he did not return. Sesshomaru didn't even seem to acknowledge her rushed words. He motioned toward Ah-Un.

"The contents of the bags should suffice until I return." Ameki glanced back quickly, and then back at Sesshomaru questioningly.

"My Lord?" He nodded once again toward the bags. Ameki took the hint and quickly untied both bags from the two headed beast. Inside the first bag was a few Yukatas of unique design. Three different colors introduced themselves into Ameki's view. Purple, red, and orange. The red Yukata was a crimson shade that was plain but magnificent. The orange yukata had small sunflower designs on the left side among the different shades of deeper orange and yellow that seemed to fade into the brown center. The purple Yukata was laced with a silver trim that seemed to shimmer the same way Sesshomaru's hair did in the sunlight. Ameki's clenched the bundle of clothing to her chest and beamed up at the Lord who was clearly pleased by her reaction. His stony expression that he often carried had softened into a more relaxed manner.

Inside of the second bag was but one outfit. One that made her jaw muscles slack into an open mouthed gape. The Kimono Ensemble was magnificent. Ameki's eyes instinctively widened as the Jūnihitoe, twelve layer robe, unfolded in her grasp. The outfit was rather heavy, something she had grown used to in her life as a princess of Yamato castle.

The formal wear of a noble lady had been Sesshomaru's final gift. Her eyes scanned the material as her breathing hastened. She knew without a doubt that this gift had been most expensive. The Kosode, the first inner layer, was a simple cloth white robe that was extremely pleasant to the touch, and rather thin thankfully due to the encomposing layers it would lay beneath. The Red pleated Nagabakama was of a similar material, light and rather drafty. Ameki took notice that the material was well within adjustable size of her own waist. The next layer, the Hitoe, was a beautiful bluish green silk robe, followed by a series of brightly colored thin robes, Uchiga, that made up the Itsutsu Ginu formal layer. The Itsutsu Ginu would adorn the top layer over the Hitoe. The colors ranged from a variant of bright red, olive green, deep gold, and different shades of pink between the previous colored robes. This would give the appearance of many different layers in the ensemble. The Uchiginu, made up the next layer which was a beaten scarlet robe that would provide support for the outer layers. Ameki simply beamed at the peach colored silk uwagi that would be the final robed layer. Designs of flowers painted the collar in white thread. The top Jacket, the Karaginu that would be worn over the many layers of robes was a pale green that accented the peach Uwagi that laid beneath. The pale outer colors would serve to draw attention to the many vibrant layers that would be exposed underneath her Uwagi. The final piece of the fashionable noble wear was the mo, the long white train which would flow freely behind the many coats that was the jūnihitoe. The mo was the formal piece that signified her nobility rank. The white train held silver trim.

"My Lord…" Ameki's breathless words caused her to take notice of the fact that she had been holding her breath. She lowered her gaze, letting her bangs shield Sesshomaru's view of her eyes. She could feel the tears welling, as they threatened to release from the corner of her eyes. She felt foolish. A grown woman, crying at the sight of a gift. She didn't want Lord Sesshomaru to think she did not like what he had presented her with, but she didn't want him to believe that she was a spoiled princess that expected this sort of treatment. As far as she was concerned, he didn't owe her anything. It was her that owed him her life.

"I don't deserve such magnificent gifts my lord. I wouldn't even know when to appropriately wear such attire in the village." She lightly brushed away a tear that had escaped, and began its descent down her heated cheek.

"A princess should be afforded the chance to dress accordingly whenever she desires, the reason or location does not matter." Sesshomaru's voice had adapted a much softer tone than Ameki was used to. When she was sure that her eyes no longer threatened to betray her, she beamed the most vibrant smile she could muster toward the beautiful Lord.

Her… Lord Sesshomaru.