~Ameki~

Ameki shifted her weight in her groggy state. She felt the awkward pull of muscles around the sore rib. It was healing. She could feel that the magnitude of pain had lessened thankfully. That didn't mean it wouldn't hurt her, because it did as her body stiffened and her breathing hitched. She looked down at the fur that wrapped comfortably around her body. In the near distance, a small campfire was burning. She could make out a small figure laying beside the open flame. Jaken. His still form was sleeping and Ah-Un accompanied the little imp from the otherside of the fire. She was… She had almost forgotten. The heat rushed to her cheeks as she realized Sesshomaru's arm now draped over the fur that wrapped around her. She glanced up, expecting to see his amber eyes returning her gaze. However, what she saw was astonishing. Sesshomaru's eyes were closed. The porcelain skin of his eyelids were marked with a magenta stripe that nestled just above his lashes. The stripe resembled the ones that painted his features on each side of his face. He truly was a sight to behold. The most beautiful demon she had ever seen. True she hadn't seen many, but she couldn't fathom how the universe could create something nearly as perfect a second time. She was holding her breath, only this time it wasn't from pain, but out of awe.

Was he asleep? His body was still but it seemed for the first time, she could notice him breathing. Or rather feel it. His chest moved causing motion beneath his armor, in turn causing her own body to slightly move. His skin looked so soft. She had to mentally, and physically restrain herself from reaching out to touch his face. Just gazing at him was a privilege she realized. Being that close to him, close enough to truly appreciate how flawless his skin was, that was the real privilege. Everything that had ever made her question her own appearance before paled in that moment. She sat in the arms of a God. A lowly human woman with all of her mortal flaws, compared to this being that held her; this being that cared for her, and she him. Looking at him caused something to flutter in her chest. Her heart was playing tricks on her, skipping with no cause. It was foreign, strange even. It warmed her body even more.

She pulled her gaze away long enough to check the sky. It was still dark, but she could see the eastern sky start to lighten. She thought back to her hazy dreams. Yakunan had not even appeared once, and she had a feeling it had something to do with Sesshomaru being so near to her. She turned back, daring another glance at the handsome face before her. It wouldn't be often that she would get to see him in this resting state. She wondered if it would ever happen again in her lifetime, witnessing the almighty Sesshomaru sleeping. If you could call it that? She smiled, releasing a breath in a hushed sigh. A content sigh. Him resting meant they were safe.

She tilted her head back, resting on the mokomoko, comfortable enough to keep her eyes on him as she slipped back into a peaceful slumber. She felt safe, secure and warm. Very warm, and it was all thanks to her Lord, Sesshomaru.

She was roused from the brink of sleep, not long after she lost the struggle to keep her eyes open. It had been too big of an opportunity to waste. Gazing up at Sesshomaru while he was most vulnerable was something she would wager very few had been afforded. It was precious to her. The mokomoko's grip around her released, letting the fur lay loosely around her. Sesshomaru's arm replaced the absence of the fur. Her bleary vision registered the change. Sesshomaru's eyes were open, but he didn't look at her. The muscles around his eyes were more relaxed than normal. His vision hadn't registered her awakened state, and she didn't care to let it end so soon. Through hooded eyes she watched him. His normal brooding expression was relaxed into a more thoughtful one. It made him seem younger, and less rough around the edges. It was nice. Was this the Sesshomaru her mother had known?

He looked down as soon as the thought had crossed her mind. His eyes widening just a bit, enough for her to notice the change. At first she thought he would look away, but he didn't. He kept her gaze, matching it even as his eyes relaxed once more.

"How do you feel?" He inquired.

"Very warm, Thank you." She paused.

"I can move if you'd prefer. It looks like Jaken tired himself out preparing camp." The pressure from Sesshomaru's arm gradually lessened. Almost as if he didn't want to move too quickly, or noticeably.

"If that is what you wish." He replied. Was that what she wanted? To be separated so soon? A new warmth entered her body as she contemplated his words. She had felt so at peace, and it was all going to end. She looked toward the campsite, and then back at him.

"Or stay." He stated, catching her by surprise. If she didn't know any better, she would have thought he preferred it this way. The way he had responded first had left little head way for his second response. That was silly of her to think though. That was just his way of giving her options. She mentally shook any hope, considering deep down she figured it was just his way of providing comfort. To her though, it had started to mean more.

"The walk would be a bit chilly I think." She responded with a childish grin. Anything to stay right where she was, and so she did. Sesshomaru's arm had fallen complacent at his side once more, and a hint of the brooding nature that came so easily for Sesshomaru returned. She calmed her mind once more, closing her eyes, feeling almost as if she would invade his privacy if she kept staring. She wanted to relish this. After all, how many chances would she get to be this close to him? She honed in her senses once more, wanting to feel the heave of his chest, but it never came. His body had returned to the rigid statue state that he often sported. It saddened her a bit, but she was still in his presence, and somehow, that made everything alright.

She dreamt of the white haired woman. The dream didn't feel intrusive like Yakunan's did. She remembered the woman from the vision's she had seen while her mind had been under Nimka's control. Her dreams were not her own to control either when Yakunan was involved. However, with the white haired woman Ameki was free to do whatever she pleased. It seemed as though the woman watched her. Observed her. She would catch glances of her in crowds, she would see her reflection in water. This beautiful woman followed her through each flitting image without intervening even once. Ameki wandered if maybe her mind wished to remember her, and so it had conjured these images. Maybe she was just a figment of Ameki's imagination, a trick of the mind. The only detail Ameki couldn't reason with, was that the woman seemed to move differently than the rest of her dream, as if she didn't fit in. Ameki couldn't understand why she was there, or what purpose her image among her dreams served.

Ameki didn't see Sesshomaru in her dreams. She had seen him often as of late, the realization saddened her. He usually only appeared when she could feel Yakunan trying to steer her dreams. She called out to him nonetheless. He never appeared in his human form nor his other form for that matter. She searched the skies, and the wooded area. She was alone. A flash of white caught her attention in her peripheral. She turned quickly, expecting to see Sesshomaru. She could feel the disappointment. Real disappointment as her face fell. The white haired woman stood before her in silence. A frown etched her own features as she gazed at Ameki.

"Ameki!" Ameki woke to Sesshomaru's eyes. The Amber orbs gazed down at her curiously. His brow was slightly knit at the corners, as his silver bangs flowed back and forth, jostled in the wind.

"Lord Sesshomaru?" Ameki began, clearing her throat and stretching her legs.

"Is something wrong?" She raised up from her leaning position. There was still quite a bit of pain as she stretched her muscles around the broken rib. Even with the hastened healing capabilities, a wound like that would take days to heal, but it beat the alternative of months. Sesshomaru's gaze lingered on the crown of her head for a moment, before finding her eyes again. He looked as if he didn't know what to say. His eyes wreaked of questions, but his mouth didn't give any hint of it away. Rather his mind was perplexed. He knew what he wanted to say, but he didn't want to say it.

The sky began to lighten. The night hours were falling behind as the daylight pushed forward. Ameki could almost feel the previous night's events slipping from the freshness of her mind into aged memories. The previous night had been a mix of emotions. Ameki had been sure that she would die, but somehow she had pulled through. Sesshomaru had let her stay in his company. At first it had been to shield her from the night's cold air, but Ameki was sure she had glimpsed something else within his eyes as well. Ameki didn't feel up to playing the guessing game. In all honesty, she was a little hungry. As if on queue her stomach growled, catching her and Sesshomaru's attention.

"You should eat." Ameki felt Sesshomaru's body move as he spoke. He effortlessly picked himself up, standing between Ameki and the tree they had been against. He held out his hand. Ameki took it, carefully pulling herself up as Sesshomaru pulled. She would need to avoid using her right side as much as possible. That included using her right arm. Even extending it too far caused discomfort.

The morning drug on. Ameki had found a few more layered robes to break the cold wind as she ate by the fire. Sesshomaru's attention was elsewhere, where it normally lingered. She knew he hated the waiting. Sesshomaru wasn't someone that liked to stay in one place too long. She watched as the wind swept his hair. His perfect strands sat in disarray, neglected by their owner. As if he could feel her gaze on him, he turned. She swallowed hard, having not completely chewed the food that painfully made its way down her throat. The moment of discomfort faded. She had been caught staring, and that caused a new discomfort to arise.

~Sesshomaru~

Sesshomaru was certain that Kohaku would find them. His senses were far too keen for a presence such as Sesshomaru's to go unnoticed. They made their appearance shortly after midday. Ameki and Jaken had been deep in conversation, one verging on argumentative when Kohaku appeared. Hotaru followed shortly. The news they brought worried Ameki. The young lord had apparently regained his senses, aiding them in anyway that he could. The princess went missing, as did a supposed family portrait in the main entryway. According to Kohaku, a few of the maid's escaped, while others were put to the sword. The Kana had been in the process of breaking the seal that held their comrades in the reflecting pools below the palace. According to the young lord, his late father's mother had sealed the Kana in the reflecting pools. Before becoming the lady of the castle, she had been a shaman, or shrine maiden. She had succeeded in sealing four of them, saving the family from an uncertain fate. The Kana that had escaped returned with a vengeance. Usagi, she called herself. She had successfully merged with a human, becoming a Hanja, an eternal one. Creating her army, she later returned to plague the family once more in an attempt to unify hers. The shaman that had sealed her family of Kana away had already passed, but the shrine maiden's family continued. The Kana feed off of life energy, hence the reason for offering women to the Kana trapped within the pools. Absorbing their strength would rekindle their own, making the process of breaking the seal that much easier. Usagi had kept the young lord alive, controlling him for the purpose to simply save face and bring forth an heir, hoping that the spiritual powers that sealed her kin would surface once more in the lineage. That is what it would take to break the seal. The Kana within would need to feast on the powers that sealed them.

The thought left a funny taste in Sesshomaru's mouth. Disgust. It was a heinous thought, even for him. Sesshomaru had done a lot of terrible things, but killing a baby, whether human or demon, was below him. He had a feeling though, that the Hiroshi family had not seen the last of the Hanja Usagi. The princess had gone missing, which led Sesshomaru to believe that Usagi had not given up on her attempts. She would be back one day. However, it wasn't his concern. The slayers had done their part to help the villagers. It was time to resume their own endeavors. The clock was ticking, and Sesshomaru had been painfully reminded after seeing the new mark upon Ameki's hand.

It was painstakingly annoying. He didn't know what the future held for Ameki. He didn't understand the meaning of the symbols on her hand that dwindled by a number each day. It made him anxious. He wanted answers, but each time he believed himself to be close, a new dilemma arose. The strange feeling surrounding Ameki had returned that morning. She had been in a dream, and could feel her reaching out to him. He could feel her calling, but no matter how hard he tried to respond, his aura couldn't touch her. She had been right in his arms, surrounded by his aura, but untouched. He had called out her name and she had responded almost instantly. Her eyes fluttered open. He watched as an ebony strand of hair drained itself of color. It had happened before his very eyes. It was most strange to witness. The black seemingly bled into white joining the other two strands that held the pale shade. Sesshomaru didn't believe she had been in a nightmare. Trauma hadn't been the cause of the aging hair. No, he was sure something else was to blame, he just didn't know what. He hadn't felt Yakunan, so what had it been?

Before that, Sesshomaru had found peace enough to finally rest a bit. Ameki had been safe with him. The forest around them was deserted, and the crackling sound from the fire in the distance had lulled his mind enough to shut it off for a while. Having Ameki so near to him had calmed something in him. Watching her sleep had quelled his complex thoughts, pushing all of his anxieties to the deepest trenches of his mind. He had been so close to losing her. His arm had instinctively moved to touch her, to be sure that his mind had not been playing tricks on him. That physical contact of draping his arm over her sleeping form had been proof enough to set him at ease. His own breathing had soon joined hers, calm and steady, until his mind had drifted, allowing him to rest.

A few days passed. The mark for 74 had appeared on Ameki's hand when Sesshomaru was satisfied that she was well enough to travel. Kohaku had assured Sesshomaru that the village was once again safe for her to return. Sesshomaru was also well aware of the visit she had received from Lord Hiroshi. The young Lord had offered a sincere enough apology it seemed. Sesshomaru found himself eavesdropping more often, not wandering far away from the village. He had even dared entry a few times. Hiroshi's forlorn demeanor had gained sympathy from Ameki. Of course Sesshomaru realized that Hiroshi had been influenced, controlled even. He knew the young lord was not to blame, but that didn't make him comfortable knowing he would be in Ameki's presence once more. What if Kohaku had missed something? That was exactly why Sesshomaru had stayed close to the village.

The number 70 was present on Ameki's hand the day they crossed into the region of Echigo. Sesshomaru had relinquished navigation to Kohaku, knowing he would be more familiar with the last known location of the two siblings they sought. Kohaku and Hotaru walked ahead of their small group. Ameki and Jaken trailed behind them, and Sesshomaru kept a sturdy pace a few feet in front of Ah-Un. Kohaku and Hotaru were deep in discussion, while Ameki and Jaken jested back and forth. It was a little strange to see Jaken's humorous side. Sesshomaru had rarely known Jaken to have a sense of humor, and yet he smiled an impish grin at one of Ameki's snide remarks.

"Oh yeah?! Well I'd bet my cooking skills in the wild far surpass yours!" The imp screeched in reply.

"I don't doubt that master Jaken. After all, Lord Sesshomaru probably leaves you to wander quite often. You've had plenty of time to fine tune your art of wilderness cuisine." She was teasing the imp, trying to get him riled up.

"You brat!" His smile faded into shock, but the gleem remained in his eyes. Ameki giggled.

Sesshomaru observed their exchanging of words as they traveled the desolate road. They hadn't passed any other travelers that day. They had sat down from flight to travel on foot for a while, giving Ah-Un a break, and the others a stretch. Sesshomaru could have continued indefinitely if he had wished, but the cold up north was far more bitter than in the southern regions. Traveling through the air and flying against the cold wind had begun to take its toll on the mortals. Ameki's nose was almost as bright as the red that decorated Sesshomaru's attire, and her lips had taken on a pale blue tint. Kohaku and Hotaru had also shown signs that they were struggling against the cold so far up. It would slow them down, but hopefully keep anyone from getting sick. That would only slow them down more. Sesshomaru had been the first to descend, signaling their landing. He had instructed them that they would continue on foot.

Ameki now wore a Hanten. It was a thick jacket that in some ways, resembled a haori. There were slight differences though. The Hanten was insulated well, and would provide more warmth than a simple layer Haori. Ameki had acquired the piece from a tailor in the town that had wished to spread her new design. It was a dark blue, against her peach colored Kimono. Sesshomaru was satisfied with the wool material. He was sure it would bring her more warmth than the simple cloth fabric of her kimono.

The daylight hours waned as they approached a small village. It looked to be a farming village. The fields were bare as to be expected in the winter. The crops had already been harvested in the fall. It was sizable enough to have a few shops and a small shopping district. Kohaku seemed to be familiar with the village. He spoke of taking shelter for the night. Sesshomaru agreed. The clouds had increased since their departure from them. The wind blew just right for Sesshomaru to smell the crystalized water droplets. It wouldn't be a blizzard, but Sesshomaru could sense the impending snow. Sesshomaru was comfortable with the idea of the humans seeking shelter for the night. His anxiety had slightly lessened since entering the region of Echigo. True, they didn't know where the siblings would be, but Kohaku seemed to have an idea of where to start. He wanted to set out early the next morning to get some answers, but that meant Sesshomaru, Ameki and Jaken would have to stay behind. Sesshomaru figured Hotaru would tag along with Kohaku. After all, seeking answers would be easier if the two split up once they reached their destination. It was only logical.

Sesshomaru wasn't keen on the idea of sitting back and letting someone else do the work. He had always been one to jump head first into his problems. Problems that pertained to anything other than his emotions. That was something he needed to work on. He had taken great strides over the years, but he still struggled to keep a reign on them. Sometimes he believed it was truly easier to act as if he had no emotions. Putting on facades held its own set of struggles though. He needed to find a balance.

"Lord Sesshomaru?" Ameki smiled up at him as her questioning tone redirected his attention. He leveled a gaze toward her, hoping that his jumbled thoughts weren't apparent. Sesshomaru watched as she prepared herself to continue, satisfied that she had his attention.

"Shall I have Jaken accompany me this time?" Ameki would take shelter in the village with the others, a village he was not familiar with. It left a bad taste in his mouth. Sesshomaru had believed numerous times that leaving mortals with their own kind would be best for them. Time and time again he had been proven wrong. His efforts to protect by neglect were failing, just as one would suspect. It was no wonder his father was always such a busy demon. Between his duties and personal life, there would have been little time for anything else.

Sesshomaru halted his thoughts before souring any more of the present with his memories. Ameki had asked if Jaken would accompany her, and Sesshomaru thought it best, considering previous events. It would put his mind at ease knowing an extra pair of eyes would watch over her in this foreign land. Sesshomaru wouldn't be far. After all, there wasn't much he cared to do in these lands other than find the priest and priestess. He knew all too well the demon that resided over the north and east, and he had no intentions of having a reunion any time soon. True his father had presided over these lands, but he hadn't done it alone. Inu No Taisho had been the Great Dog General, yes, but there were others who governed beside him. Maintaining a balance of power was crucial in demon hierarchy. It was a way of life for demons. All it would take was one power hungry formidable demon to turn the flourishing earth into an unrecognizable wasteland. Control couldn't exist in such a dark place, which is why the balance would be maintained. If anyone misused their power or breached the ancient rules put into place, they would be overthrown. Sesshomaru had been dangerously close to that path once in his life. In his search for Naraku, Sesshomaru had neglected his duties, and neglect alone had damaged not only his image, but had begun this war he currently fought.

"My Lord?" Ameki gazed up at him questioningly.

"Yes, Jaken will accompany you as well." She smiled.

"Well then master Jaken, help me with my bags please?" Sesshomaru watched out of the corner of his eye as the imp's brows arched.

"I'm not a simple pack mule that you can just use at your leisure!" He screeched.

"I'm not using you, I said please." She pointed out.

"And I suppose you would have me believe that please is actually a magical word that will make me comply?" Jaken retorted.

"Actually…" Hotaru intervened.

"I believe the magic words in this scenario would be if looks could kill." He spoke as he awkwardly pointed toward Sesshomaru.

Jaken's form went rigid as he dared a glance over his shoulder. Sesshomaru could feel the stone muscles of his jaw clenched as he stood in silence.

"I'll carry them, don't worry your pretty little head!" Jaken rushed toward Ah-Un, his tiny pruned hands fumbled with the buckles nervously as he tried to rectify his previous behavior. Ameki's small giggle from beside Sesshomaru was enough for him to bring his attention away from the intimidated imp. Sesshomaru had that kind of effect on people, and Ameki had a strange effect on Sesshomaru as well.

The others joined in on the attempt to gather bags and supplies. Ameki turned on her foot to follow, but Sesshomaru's hand snaked out to catch her sleeve. The silent gesture went unnoticed by everyone else thankfully. Ameki turned back, a questioning look returned.

"If you need assistance, just call out my name." He spoke in a hushed tone. He would feel her calling. He knew he would and the pendant around her neck thrummed with his energy confirming that fact. He had done his best over the past couple of days to hone in his senses to the energy that resonated from the pendant. Sometimes, he could even feel fragments of her emotions. The more he pressed, the more that was revealed to him. He wasn't able to read her thoughts, but he knew whenever she was thinking of him. It strengthened the bond when her mind steered to thoughts of him, whether it was a sideways glance or a dream in which he roamed the skies as she followed. He needed to know when she was in danger or uncomfortable. It could help avoid any more incidents like the one that had taken place previously in the palace. It could have been avoided entirely if Sesshomaru hadn't turned her away, he remembered painfully. It had been partially his fault that she had ended up in that situation. No longer. His old ways didn't work, and so a new approach was needed. Strengthening his bond with the pendant that was in her possession was the first step.

"Of course M'Lord." A tension he hadn't noticed before seemed to resonate from her as she answered. Or maybe her wounds hadn't fully had time to heal. Had Sesshomaru been too hasty with his decision to continue their journey? Either way, it was too late to change the outcome. The only means to amend it would be for Ameki to rest once more in the village that splayed across their vision in the distance.

~Ameki~

Sesshomaru disappeared into the small forested area that sat alongside the village fields. Ameki followed Kohaku and Hotaru, and Jaken tagged behind her. His little muscles struggled against the bulk of the bags he toted. Ameki felt kind of sorry for the little imp. She had merely mentioned helping her as a jest, and had not meant to insight Sesshomaru's involvement. Nevertheless, she could rectify it. She stopped momentarily, letting the imp catch up to her. She plucked the nearest bag from his clutches, catching him off guard.

"Let me help you Jaken." At first Jaken looked as if he would protest. His eyes scanned the area where Sesshomaru had departed. Slowly his gaze came back to rest on Ameki.

"If that's what you want." He stated as he began walking again.

Ameki couldn't help but to feel a bit of dread surface as they made their way into the village. Running into trouble was starting to become a habit, and they were in a new place once more. Sesshomaru had given her some solace in knowing he would be nearby. He would need to be pretty close to hear her call out to him. Kohaku seemed to know his way around. Being with two capable slayers helped ease her mind as well. She hated being such a burden, watching her back at every turn. Castle life had not prepared her for the real world. Of course she was aware that times were hard for many, but she hadn't realized how much the land had been plagued by more than just human greed. Demons and apparitions ran amuck, playing their deceitful and dangerous games. It was unsettling to see this world in such a new, but dim light.

"Hisui!" A young woman approached the group with her arms wide open. Ameki halted her step for a moment, registering the approaching form. Had she mistaken them for someone else? The look on the woman's face was pure surprise mixed with adoration. Hotaru jogged ahead a few steps before the two collided in an embrace. Ameki slipped into a furthered state of confusion.

Kohaku's side glance revealed a smirk. The girl took a step back still holding Hotaru's arms as she gazed up at him.

"I wasn't expecting you back so soon Hisui! Does this mean…?" The excitement in her eyes could not be contained. Kohaku cleared his throat interrupting their reunion.

"I'm sorry Yui." Kohaku began.

"I'm afraid our journey here wasn't on Hisui's behalf." He began. Ameki watched as she felt her brow crease even further. Why was she calling Hotaru Hisui?

"Oh…" The light in the girl Yui's eyes dimmed, and a more strained smile replaced her serene one.

"So, you must have heard about the white apparition then?" She stepped back, her attention steering from Hotaru to the group. Kohaku's brow arched.

"Well, no, but I'm sure you can fill us in on our stay." Kohaku answered.

"We actually came here because of the twins." Kohaku's eyes searched Yui's face. The strained smile faded.

"Yes, that too. I heard. I'm so sorry. I know you were close to them." Kohaku's shoulders slumped as the rumor was confirmed. So Nimka had told the truth. Something had happened.

"If you're here to search for them I suggest you rest up for the night. You're welcome to stay with me. Or if you'd prefer some privacy, my brother's house has been empty for a while now. After he married Mayu, they moved to her home village to care for her parents. I'm just using it for storage at the moment, but a little tidying up could make it suitable for a night or two." She smiled, glancing at each of them.

Her expression faltered a moment as her eyes found Ameki. A tense confused expression surfaced. Kohaku seemed to notice as well.

"Yui, I would like you to meet Ameki." Yui glanced toward Kohaku and then back to Ameki.

"Hello Ameki." She stepped forward, giving a small bow in Ameki's direction.

"I am Yui, Hisui's promised." Ameki bowed in turn, rising a bit hesitant as she registered her words once again.

"It's nice to meet you Yui." Ameki greeted her in kind.

"If I may inquire, is Hisui a nickname?" Ameki looked up, a little confused. She was a bit surprised when Yui called Hotaru Hisui, and even more surprised to learn that they were engaged. Hotaru chuckled.

"Actually, it's my real name. Hisui. My dad thought he was being original when he named me, but… It got me picked on quite a bit while I was growing up." He shrugged.

"Hotaru is actually the nickname I picked up in one of my first battles. It means firefly. It's a story I'll have to share with you sometime, but the name stuck." He turned his attention back to Yui, who gazed up at him with her returning smile.

"It was also around the time when we met." She added.

"I still call him Hisui because that was the name of the man I fell in love with." Yui cooed. Ameki felt a tinge of heat in her cheeks at their display of affection. Kohaku looked rather uncomfortable himself, but his usual smirk had returned.

"Well, I guess we'll take you up on that offer to use your brother's house." Kohaku chimed in.

"Alright. Let's get to work then." Yui answered.

Work had been the correct word to use for preparing Yui's brother's shack. There were large crates that lined the shack walls. A fine layer of dust had settled on almost everything throughout the hut. It was a four room hut. The outside had been quite deceitful upon approaching. Ameki would have guessed two rooms at most, but she hadn't realized that the back portion of the house had been expanded. There was a cellar as well that contained a bathing area. Yui hadn't stored anything in the cellar due to having to use a ladder. It would've just complicated things. Ameki scanned the room as she did her best to dust off the furniture. The candle she held on the dish in her hand began to drip wax off of the side, signaling her to place it down and take in her surroundings that the small flame illuminated. The stone tub was large enough for two, maybe three people. There was a nook underneath where firewood would be placed to heat the water, and a chimney that adorned the wall beside the tub, leading up a chute to the outside. Ameki brought her attention away from the tub, scanning the rest of the room that held an odd assortment of items. A few wooden toys, a privacy partition, some tattered towels and at last, a seasoned pile of wood.

Ameki finished the dusting in the lower quarter before returning to the main floor of the hut. Hotaru and Kohaku had finished rearranging the crates into the kitchen. Most of them fit, but a few still sat in the corner by the entryway of the hut. Ameki's appearance in the room caused Hotaru and Yui to break out into a fit of laughter. Jaken followed suit as his attention followed theirs, resting on Ameki. She paused, looking around the room, resting on Kohaku, who in turn held a humored gaze.

"Have I done something to warrant laughter?" Ameki inquired.

"Probably not on Purpose My Lady." Kohaku spoke as he jostled through a nearby crate, pulling out a cracked mirror. He motioned for Ameki to take it. Looking at her appearance she herself began to giggle. Cobwebs clung to her hair and clothes. She glanced down where she finally noticed the patches of dust that were visible on her clothing from where she had brushed against the numerous items in the house.

"I look quite the sight don't I?" She smiled up at the group. Jaken snickered into his prunish hands.

"You look like a mountain hag." He chuckled between laughs.

"Like a witch right out of a ghost story." He continued.

Ameki's hand found her flushed cheek as she too stifled a laugh.

"Maybe so Master Jaken, but at least I don't look like this all the time. The same can't be said about you ya know." Jaken's laughter halted at her obvious insult.

"I'll have you know I'm considered dashing among my kind. One of the most sought after bachelor's… that is…" He paused.

"Until my duties aligned with Lord Sesshomaru." Ameki sighed.

"Master Jaken, worrying about what could have been?" She teased lightly.

"No such thing. My path was meant to meet up with his. I'm his most loyal servant!" He exclaimed.

"I know master Jaken, but I have to wonder if your children would have been as brash as you are at times. Imagine it. Little baby Jaken's running around with constant scowls." She continued to tease. The room was alive with laughter, but no longer at Ameki's expense. She was sure that Kohaku and Hotaru were also imagining the tiny offspring of Jaken running around with his beady eyes and frown that etched his features so often. Jaken's flustered look returned as he tried to defend his make believe prodigy.

"I can assure you anything sired by me would have the utmost respect." Jaken retorted.

"Of course Jaken. Parents always wish their children to have the things they were not afforded." Jaken's jaw went slack at Kohaku's remark. A few minutes passed before Hotaru broke his laughter and headed for the door.

"I'm guessing we'll need to prepare a bath for Ameki. The well isn't too far from here, care to help me Kohaku?" Kohaku nodded as they both headed out into the night. The cold air rushed in as their bodies cleared the door. The sliding door shut behind them, but not before Ameki could take notice of the large snowflakes that began to fall. Yui left moments later, saying little to Ameki before her departure. Ameki wasn't sure about the girl. She seemed nice enough, but there was something about her that led Ameki to believe the girl had some reservations toward Ameki. Though, she had introduced herself as Hotaru's promised. She had used his real name, something Ameki had not even known, leaving her to believe that the two were very familiar with each other. By promised, she had probably meant that the two were engaged.

Surprisingly, Yui returned with a bundle of wood in her arms. Ameki had been expecting someone to return, but the clatter of her full arms against the door had startled her. Ameki slid the door open, and ushered Yui inside.

"This wood should do. It's from my inside stock, fresher than what is stored in the basement, and drier than the wood that's stacked outside my house." She smiled toward Ameki, laying the wood down against the wall.

"Thank you, that's so thoughtful." Ameki spoke.

"It's no problem. Could I get your help to carry in some of the damp wood? We can be letting it dry so that it can be used later on." Yui's brow rose as she spoke.

"Of course I'll help you." Ameki smiled. Jaken eyed the two from the other side of the room. He had found comfort in leaning against the wall with his staff planted firmly against his chest. Ameki had no doubt that he was preparing an excuse to get out of work. She had already decided that she would just let him rest. Demon or not, the cold no doubt would bother his ancient bones. Ameki could notice the little details about the imp. Even if he wouldn't admit it, some movements caused him discomfort.

The door slid open, Kohaku and hotaru entered, a thin layer of snow covered their cloaks. The pales of water they carried over their shoulders with a stick sloshed at their hastened movements to get inside.

"Brrr…" Hotaru exclaimed with a shiver.

"It's not getting any warmer out there, that's for sure." Kohaku spoke as they made their way across the room to the small hatch on the floor that led down to the cellar. They sat their pales down. Kohaku opened the hatch and climbed down. Hotaru handed him the first pale of water. The two were in the middle of a conversation about starting a fire in the main room when Ameki and Yui left.

The wind had picked up as Yui and Ameki made their way to a house that sat farther down the road, nearest to the wide open fields. Ameki had almost forgotten about her appearance, and was thankful that the dreadful weather meant the streets were scarce of any passerbyers. She scanned the forest on the farside of the village behind them. Hopefully Sesshomaru would not see her dreadful state. Her mind drifted much like the snow on the wind, until they arrived in front of Yui's house.

"You know…" Yui began as she plucked a few pieces of wood from the pile, handing them to Ameki.

"You're not like most girls are you?" Yui questioned.

"I'm sorry, but I'm not sure what you mean by that." Ameki answered honestly.

"I mean you don't carry yourself like most women. You talk differently sometimes, even seem to walk differently. There's an air about you that I can't associate with." She finished, finally bringing her attention to Ameki as she placed the last piece of wood onto the stack in Ameki's arms.

Ameki just stared at the inquisitive and observant woman. Yui's brow arched.

"I'm not trying to be nosy. I promise, I'm just making observations. There's no need to quench my curiosity. I'm satisfied." It was a strange thing for Yui to say, but Ameki was grateful enough. She didn't want to delve into a conversation about her past life. Not with someone she just met. It was rather irritating though, that these strangers could so easily discern the differences in her. It just proved that she wasn't fitting into the image she wished to. She wanted to be a normal woman, but something about her, whether she realized it or not, was keeping her from it. Castle life still clung to her in her habits and mannerisms. It was something she would need to work on.

"So how do you know Kohaku and Hisui?" Yui broke the silence with her question.

"Well, I reside in their familie's village." A simple answer, for a simple question Ameki thought.

"And you're here with them, why?" Ameki wasn't sure how to answer. How much could she say?

"I was hoping to meet Chiyoko and Tomoko." Ameki answered honestly. Her reasons would be her own.

"Ah, yeah. I've met them. Amazing people. They've done so much for this village and many others in this region." She sighed.

"Though honestly, I'm surprised the news has reached as far as Musashi. Most have kept the disappearance quiet in fear that demons and apparitions of all kinds would resurface and bring terror with them." Yui glanced out toward the field.

"It's nights like this that we are visited by our own apparition. When the snow starts to settle on the fields. So far it's been peaceful, and stayed away from the village. For how long I'm not sure. Some people among the village have spoken of whispers they are beginning to hear at night, as if something is calling to them. I think the apparition in the fields has something to do with it." Yui's brow creased as Ameki followed her line of sight. The field was now coated with a thin layer of snow, but the white apparition she spoke of was nowhere to be seen.

"It appears on snowy nights like this one. A beautiful woman dressed in white. She seems to float weightlessly over the harvested fields, as if she has all the time in the world, and no place to go." Yui cleared her throat.

"She's a beautiful tempting sight. I've even been tempted to follow her. To see her." She slightly shrugged.

"We've been warned of these types of things though. We've been truly blessed to have Chiyoko and Tomoko, as well as Kohaku and Hotaru's aid in the past." She smiled.

"Just because something is beautiful, does not always mean it has good intentions." Yui's words were ambiguous. She had been speaking of more than just the white apparition that haunted the fields. Ameki felt slightly uncomfortable under her gaze. It was clear to her that Yui might have misinterpreted her intentions.

"Hotaru…" Ameki began.

"Hisui, I mean." Yui's arched brow flattened at the mention of his name.

"How did you two meet?" Ameki asked.

Yui's mouth twitched slightly at her question. Ameki figured that if he had anything to do with the tension she felt from Yui, then it was best to get it out in the open. Ameki had no intentions of being Yui's competition, and she wanted that to be clear.

"It was nearly three years ago. I was in my fifteenth year when we met. My home village was to the east of here, across those mountains." She gestured across the snowy fields toward the dark sky. They weren't visible at night, but Ameki recalled the view from her memories earlier that evening. The mountain peaks had been covered in snow, contrasting heavily against the dark base.

"My brother and I lived there with our father Hokage, before having to relocate back here to our grandparent's village. Our village was plagued by the mysterious disappearance of men. One such person was our father. The only difference being that our father had intentionally sought that which was taking our young men from the village. He feared for my brother's life. It wasn't long after that when Kohaku and Hisui had appeared." Yui's expression softened somewhat despite the dire memory of her father.

"It took them no more than three days to lure out the beast that was responsible. Rokurokubi, they had called her. She was a woman that had showed up in our village not long before that. She had sought nothing more than shelter, and had helped the village with so much in such a short time. She had a natural green thumb. The seeds she planted, no matter what kind, would sprout the next day. Natame, she had called herself." A strange light entered Yui's eyes as she remembered the woman.

"I thought she was a maiden sent from the God's to help our village in our time of need. That year was especially hard on us. We would go months at a time without rain to help aid our crops. The rocky and elevated terrain made it near impossible to transport water from the spring to the fields. We didn't have access to the supplies needed for an irrigation system. We relied heavily upon nature's gift of rain, and so when it didn't come, our crops suffered. So naturally, when Natame appeared with her affinity for plants, we had been hopeful." Yui's eyes fell.

"Hisui had seen right through her though. He had seen right through me as well. I couldn't contain my feelings for him, and for some unfathomable reason, he returned those feelings." Yui's gaze turned more serious.

"Natame, as beautiful as she was, turned out to be a monster. I watched that night as that hideous monster extended her neck. Her once beautiful face turned into that of a monster with her razor sharp teeth. Her body stood still, but her head flew into an all out rage toward Hisui. At the time, I wasn't aware that he had intended for things to unfold that way. I threw myself in front of him, not being able to bear the thought of losing someone so special to me. I had already lost my father. Hisui, though our time of knowing each other had been so short, was my first love. My only love. As hideous and terrifying as Natame's true appearance was, it didn't stop me from trying to shield Hisui. My body acted on its own, ready to sacrifice myself." She let out an awkward giggle.

"If only I had known at the time that they were demon slayers. I might not have acted so irrational. Although, I wouldn't have been able to prove my love for Hisui either. That one act of willingness to sacrifice myself for Hisui was what ultimately made him mine, and me his." Yui's smile returned.

"So please understand. I mean no ill will against you. I guess I just have an attachment to him that I'm not willing to let go of so easily." There it was. It came as a small shock to Ameki that Yui would interject her confession so casually. She had seen Ameki as a potential for competition.

"I can promise that our relationship is purely professional." Ameki added, hoping that her words would give Yui some kind of confidence. It did, for a moment. Yui's shaded eyes gleamed, but quickly widened. Staring past Ameki, into the fields behind them. Ameki turned, catching sight of Yui's target. The white apparition she had mentioned before seemed to float weightlessly above the snowy fields. It's attention was not on them though. It merely existed, drifting in whatever direction the wind carried it. Almost as if a sheet had been caught by a forceful gust of wind, and carried onto it's currents.

"We should hurry back." Yui spoke, turning on her heel she grabbed a few more sticks of wood. Ameki hadn't noticed until then that her arms ached from the weight of the wood in her grasp. She had been holding the wood for quite some time as she had listened to Yui's recollection. She could also feel the muscles in her side call out as the wind swept around her, sending a chill through her frame. The apparition behind them was forgotten for the time being as they made their way back to the house where Kohaku and Hotaru had built a fire in the cellar under the tub, and in the main room. Kohaku met them at the door with the empty buckets. He was heading out to fetch more water from the nearby well as Hotaru stoked the flames of the fire in the main room. Just seeing the flames warmed something inside of Ameki. The promise of a fire could do wonders for a chilled body it would seem.

"Oh, Kahaku! Our little apparition has made its appearance in the field again if you'd like to take a look?" Yui spoke, catching Kohaku's attention before he slid the door shut behind him.

"We were actually starting to get a little worried about you two. So you were out playing with ghosts?" He asked playfully.

"We were just getting some more green wood to dry and were talking a bit. Then we noticed the white apparition in the field and decided to hurry back." She stated simply.

"I see. I'll check it out for you. It'll give me an idea of what it is, and how to approach it." He gave a wink before sliding the door shut. Kohaku didn't seem entirely worried about the apparition. Yui had even said before that the ghost-like figure had been peaceful so far. Sesshomaru was nearby as well, which helped to quell the anxieties that had arisen on their walk back to the house.

The tub was half full, the two had decided to take a break and start a fire before continuing. Once Hotaru had been satisfied that the fire would stay lit, he headed out to help Kohaku and finish carrying the water back. Kohaku's return brought news that the apparition had vanished. Him nor Hotaru had seen the ghostly image in the fields, and had been gone for quite some time. It had given Ameki and Yui time to prepare a small meal before Ameki's bath.

"That's strange. Normally the apparition haunts the fields on snowy nights. It was there, Ameki saw it too, and it normally doesn't disappear until right before dawn." Yui spoke in a quick manner. Her words were rushed at the disbelief that Kohaku and Hotaru had not seen the apparition.

"I'm sure it will return, and when it does we'll get a look at it." Kohaku stated as he patted Yui's arm.

"For all we know, it knows we're here, and is hiding for the time being." Hotaru pointed out. Yui's shoulders slumped.

"I suppose you're right. It just makes me uncomfortable, knowing it's there. It's peaceful for now, but what if something angers it? There are so many people here that I care about." She ran her hand through her loose hair. Hotaru came over, placing his hand on her elbow stroking it gently. It was a gesture of comfort, and an intimate one that made Ameki feel awkward watching.

"I'll stay behind a bit if that'll make you feel more comfortable. Kohaku and I have to leave in the morning, but I'll come back tomorrow before nightfall." He smiled down at her causing a genuine smile to arise on Yui's face.

"I don't want to hinder your work here Hisui. Remember, you said one day, when your work is all caught up, you'll come back to me." Hotaru's face fell slightly as Yui spoke.

"I know, and I will Yui. I promise, but for now I can give you some of my time since I'm here." He grabbed her hand and gave her a smile.

"I guess I'll be content with that for now." Yui returned his smile.

The bath that had been prepared was a little more than just hot by the time Ameki had finished her meal. She eased herself into the water a little at a time. The fire beneath the stone roiled with heat, heat that transferred to the stone and in turn heated the water. It was rather uncomfortable, and took a bit of getting used to. She picked her leg up out of the water to glance over the pink sensitive skin. If she didn't know any better, she would have thought Kohaku and Hotaru had attempted to cook her alive.

She sat in the tub for a while, letting her body get used to the heat. Or at least comfortable enough to move her lethargic limbs. A warm bath always made her tired. Her body finally relaxed, adjusting to the temperature she let her mind wander as she soaked. The warmth she felt reminded her of the night she had been in Sesshomaru's company. The mokomoko had been wrapped around her securely as she laid against his chest. True his armor had still been on, but she could just imagine the inviting heat that lay beneath it, much like the steam that caressed her face and rejuvenated her pores.

Her arm lazily grabbed the container of fragrant soap from the side of the stone tub. She poured a generous amount into her palm, and gathered the hair that draped around her, fanning out into the water. Starting from her scalp, she worked her way down, massaging the suds into her thick locks of hair. It was rather calming. Washing one's hair. When Ameki was satisfied, she sat back against the side of the tub, and slid under the water. Holding her breath she relaxed as her fingers raked through her hair, removing the soap. A moment was all her thoughts needed to turn dark. A suffocating feeling, one she had felt before ensued. Feelings, rather than images, began. She had been trapped in a dark place, fighting for a single breath. Fighting to stay awake. Fighting to just stay alive.

She resurfaced quickly with a loud gasp. The thoughts had caught her off guard. She felt vulnerable, alone and even afraid. All of the emotions she had felt while trapped in the pool of the caverns beneath the palace returned. She choked slightly, fighting to prove she could breathe. Anything to prove she was no longer there. She was safe now. He had saved her. Sesshomaru had saved her yet again. Her heart was pounding. She could feel the pulse thrum through her veins, sending an echo through her hearing. Each beat was painful, but each thought of Sesshomaru brought her comfort. Each thought of Sesshomaru eased the deafening pulse in her ear. He was her safe place.

Ameki wasted no time once she regained her senses. She dried off with the towel that Yui had generously offered previously. She did her best to dress herself with shaking hands. The light blue kimono she chose was not appropriate for cold weather, but would suffice as sleep wear. Though sleep was the farthest thing from Ameki's mind at the moment, she realized as she looked down at her shaky hand.

Ameki learned that Hotaru had taken Yui back to her home. He had told Kohaku not to wait up. Hotaru claimed that he would do a bit of patrolling before returning. Jaken was fast asleep, still propped against the wall where he had devoured his meal in the blink of an eye. Kohaku had prepared the room nearest the front door for himself and Kohaku, giving Ameki the room that was nestled beside the kitchen.

Ameki gathered her bag, feigning a yawn as she walked toward the corner door. She slid it open, stepping inside. She hoped that Kohaku had not noticed her current state. She was good at hiding things, but her hands wouldn't quit shaking. Clutching her items in her grasp had helped as Kohaku told her of what she had missed in her absence. She slid the door shut. The room wasn't as warm as the living room, but it wasn't cold either. The slats in the top of the sliding door's design let the heat from the adjoining room in. Candles we're already burning on a platter that Yui had placed in the room prior to their cleaning.

Ameki sat her things down and took a deep breath, calming her nerves. She needed to keep her hands busy. She untied the bag that held her mat and blanket. Preparing the room for sleep wouldn't take that long, but it would suffice to give her mind time to think of other things.

Each breath she took was slow and measured as she stared down at her work. The mat was rolled out with a sheet neatly splayed across and tucked under the corners. Her blanket was turned down, and the pillow fluffed to perfection. The only thing left to do was lay down and wait for sleep. She had reigned in her emotions for the time being. She let her mind wander to the activities she would partake in while Kohaku and Hotaru were away. She could always go see Sesshomaru, but she wasn't sure he would appreciate the attention of the villagers. Surely the village was on high alert with the white spectre roaming the fields at night. They would probably take note of who left and arrived in the village, meaning other villagers were probably aware of their presence by now. People would be watching her she was sure. It wouldn't be wise to let a lone female walk into the woods, but that was where Sesshomaru would be. If she was going to see him, she would have to sneak out or devise a distraction.

She sighed heavily. Oh the lengths she would go to just to see Sesshomaru. A part of her thought it silly, scheming such things as a diversion. In reality though, she could just take Jaken with her. Surely the villagers knew that the small demon had arrived with the slayers and meant no harm. Then again, without the slayers around, she was still a woman disappearing into the woods with a demon. She sighed again. It was a good sign though. Her mind had calmed enough that her lungs didn't fight to keep the air. Her sudden panic in the bathing room had caught her by surprise. The events had bothered her more than she had realized. It had been a side effect of some kind of trauma she had sustained. Mental and physical. Her side ached just thinking about the pain she had experienced.

Her thoughts were halted. A faint scratching noise could be heard from the exterior of the house. Something was outside. Maybe a varmint, or maybe even one of the cats she had spotted earlier in the village. Her mind reasoned with an explanation. There were no windows in the room, so even if curiosity did win, she wouldn't know.

About an hour passed. The wind outside had picked up making a whistling noise through a few of the boards of the wall. Ameki laid cuddled in her blanket, watching the candle light flicker against the wall, displaying shadows as the light was staunched by certain objects in the room. Her eyes drooped, but there was no need to fight for consciousness. She was tired of being tired. Her dreams had been rather peaceful as of late. She wasn't sure how long that would last which meant a bit of anxiety lingered in her sleepy state. Her dreams often portrayed the white haired woman. The woman she had seen while under Nimka's control. This woman watched her every move. She had become a permanent part of Ameki's dreams, and almost seemed to blend in with most of them.

Ameki found herself searching for Sesshomaru most of the time, afraid that he was a figment of her imagination. Whenever Sesshomaru was involved, the woman would frown. Ameki wasn't sure what to make of it, but it was a dream after all. Many people believed that dreams had meaning, and if that was the case, Ameki wasn't sure she wanted to know. The white haired woman seemed displeased whenever Ameki would search for Sesshomaru. There was no rhyme or reason to it, especially since Ameki couldn't understand why she continued to make an appearance.

She was aware that somehow Sesshomaru was able to influence her dreams. Whether he was conscious of the details was a mystery to her. She just knew that when she felt his presence, it was real. The images of him in her dreams moved differently. Much like the white haired woman, which confused Ameki. They weren't a part of the dream, Ameki did not control them. They acted on their own.

On que, Sesshomaru appeared. His long silver hair danced on the wind. Ameki gazed at him in awe. She couldn't help herself. Dream or not, she still felt the fascination looking at him. He was the perfect creature, and of course in her dreams, Ameki took the liberty of gazing at him just a little longer. His eyes were the same amber orbs that greeted her in the waking world. It was Sesshomaru. It had to be. He felt real in a world of make believe. Moments like these were the highlight of her dreams. True she still had anxieties of falling asleep, but knowing that Sesshomaru would be waiting for her always won. Sleep would come, numerous nights and days of napping and recuperating after obtaining her injuries at the palace. He was always there, somewhere. She just had to find him.

That dream in particular, her curiosity arose. She stepped forward and whispered his name.

"Sesshomaru…" the words left her lips, carried on a light wind that echoed across the short distance to him. She followed those words, moving closer, and closer until she was staring up at him. What would it feel like?

She lifted her arm effortlessly, her palm outstretched mere inches from his face. She stopped and stared into his eyes. Looking for something, anything. Permission. He showed no signs of disapproval, giving Ameki the confidence she needed to savor a small moment. Her hand grazed the marble textured skin. The warmth from the touch was real, his heat was real. Everything about that moment was real. They stood still in time as the dream continued around them. Her hand cupped the cheek of perfection, and to her surprise Sesshomaru's face turned inward to her palm. He didn't pull away, or feign disgust at having such a lowly mortal touch him. The sight before her was pure bliss. The dream around her crackled with energy matching her emotions. She stood frozen as his warmth melted her heart. This is what it was like. This was that connection she had been searching for, but was it really him, or just her imagination? That was yet to be known, but for now she was elated.

His eyes softened at her touch. His image seemingly relished the contact her hand provided. Ameki felt a pang as she realized this would differ in the waking world. She would never touch his face so, or see such a serene expression line his features. Sesshomaru's presence felt real, but the actions were not and she knew it. This Sesshomaru was just a shadow of the real Sesshomaru, a figment of her hopeful imagination. She pulled her hand back slowly, feeling the pain enter her chest. She had opened a door that unknowingly led to nothing but pain. Realizing her desires had dampened her spirit, knowing in the real world they would never be realized. This Sesshomaru simply existed to comfort her in her dreams, in whatever capacity that was needed. The real Sesshomaru would never allow such a caress so easily.

Her vision of Sesshomaru began to blur. His features washed away in front of her vision, yet her hand remained. Ameki felt a new presence, one just as powerful as the image of the man before her that she clung to. Maybe even stronger. A visage of a woman appeared beside her. Her long white hair didn't dance in the breeze, but rather floated in suspension around her. Her pale hand reached out to grab Ameki's wrist. The cold touch registered, dampening the warmth Ameki had felt from Sesshomaru's cheek.

"Why hold on to such wishes?" The woman spoke. Her voice rang through the dream space so clearly. As soft as the chime of a distant bell with a swell of authority. Her eyes held Ameki's. The urge to look away from such a beautiful creature was suffocating. She yearned to look upon Sesshomaru, but this woman felt different. Different as in it felt shameful to look upon her flawless features.

"I don't understand." Ameki managed to whisper.

"Release these thoughts Ameki. They are for the weak, and not one such as yourself." Ameki's fingers began to tingle. The muscles began to move without her permission. Her hand retracted from Sesshomaru's face.

"No, why? This is my dream. It's just a dream." Ameki pleaded. Sesshomaru's skin had been more than just a guilty pleasure. It had been her comfort, something that grounded her allowing her mind to think of more pleasant things. It chased away the anxieties that threatened to steer her dreams into an unknown abyss. Yet this woman before her, ceased that contact.

"Such thoughts are not meant for you. Those ideals would lead you down a dark path. One you couldn't be saved from." Of all the times the white haired woman could have chosen to find her voice, it was when Ameki had finally decided to make contact with Sesshomaru.

"You exist in my realm. I do as I please." Ameki was tired of losing control. Her dreams were her own, and she wouldn't back down from this once silent woman. It wasn't fair of her to shatter the elation Ameki had felt.

"Nay, your purpose has been reforged Ameki. No longer will you walk the path that mortals do." Ameki shifted, moving backward. The image of Sesshomaru began to disintegrate before them. She watched as his body faded to nothingness on the currents of the wind of her dreams. Ameki reached out once more, hoping that her touch would solidify him again. Luck would not have it. Her hands grabbed thin air. She turned to the woman, a panic rising in her chest.

"What have you done?" Ameki demanded an explanation as her emotions threatened to spiral. She was confused and angry. A volatile mix for someone suspended in a dream state.

The woman's features went blank, as if she was staring right through Ameki. She had the audacity to ignore her, after shattering the bliss Ameki's mind had created. This white haired woman had no right.

"Answer me!" She screamed. The flitting images of the world around her began to tremble. Ameki knew if she couldn't reel in her emotions, she could turn the world around her into something much darker. She could already see the sinister presence dart through the shadows of her dream world. Yakunan. This woman had opened the door for him.

"No, why?" Ameki pleaded. The woman's gaze rested on an area behind Ameki. Ameki turned to see the intimidating visage that she hadn't seen in quite some time. Yakunan. His eyes were narrowed, staring through Ameki as well. His gaze was cold as he looked upon the white haired woman.

"She's a means for me to begin. Thank you, dark brother." The woman's voice had taken on a mocking tone as she spoke to Yakunan.

"So the Bai Long appears to me now. The price of such a vessel is steep I see." Yakunan spoke.

"A price you knew would come Horned dragon." The white haired woman retorted.

"Hmph." Yakunan sneered.

"It was that same arrogance that wielded powers which you did not understand Jiaoling. It has taken its toll on you, of that I'm sure." Yakunan's sneer turned into a scowl as she spoke.

"Do you think me an undisciplined welp, unable to make a quick decision?" Yakunan's hate filled features blurred as his eyes darted toward Ameki. A cold feeling encased her chest as a familiar sensation arose. She looked down to see the blood soaked wound in her chest. The one that Yakunan had inflicted in the beginning, taking her life to claim as his own.

"You shouldn't try so hard Jiaolong. I can see how the bond has weakened you. You strive now to make her feel the cold clutches of death, but in reality that is all you are able to do now. My vessel will flourish, and I shall return to right that which has been wronged. The very mark you created will be your downfall." Yakunan's features came back into focus.

"You Bai Long have always been such long winded creatures. Enough talking." He turned his attention back toward Ameki.

"The link I have with you was to serve a purpose, a purpose that I must now finish in person." His eyes glowed with a dark light as images of dragon scales began to form atop his skin. Turning his gaze back to the woman, he spoke as his voice and body dispersed.

"I'll play your game for now, considering I still have the upper hand and a physical body. You will not complete this transformation, you have my word." His image disappeared, shattering the gloomy environment that had encased them.

"Prepare yourself mortal. That which he can not accomplish through the link will come forth in presence." She turned, her icy eyes holding Ameki's own.

"You cannot fight vile with vile. Banish the demon from your side." Ameki was confused. This woman before her asked something of her that she was unsure of. Had she meant Sesshomaru? Vile against vile? Was she insinuating that Sesshomaru was just as bad as Yakunan? It would explain her displeased look whenever Sesshomaru was around. However, this woman that she did not know, would not tell her what to do.

"No." Ameki answered blatantly.

"I will not Banish him." She held the icy stare, mustering as much courage as she was able. It was not negotiable. Even if this were just a dream, a figment of her sleeping mind she would not give in so easily. He was worth fighting for. It was her turn to give back.

"Ponder my words well young one. I would hate to force the situation. I would rather you see it for what it is on your own. If Yakunan does not destroy you, then Sesshomaru will. Sesshomaru has few options, and his most treasured desire is the downfall of the one you call Yakunan." Her face was solemn now, losing the edge of intimidation that she had earlier displayed.

"There is another way. A way to save you both from the horned dragon, all I ask is that you Banish him. Banish Sesshomaru."

Ameki was hesitant to speak. She didn't want Sesshomaru to disappear from her life, but this woman claimed the alternative to save them both would be to separate from Sesshomaru. If only Ameki could see the bigger picture, a decision could be made. Yet, her naive mind clung to him even in doubt. If she could end this war she would, but at what cost would it be? What was she offering?

Ameki awoke with a chill. The room was dark now, the candle light had long diminished. A presence lingered near her causing her to flinch and grab the tanto that lay under her pillow. The cold hilt affirmed her grasp, slicing her pillow as she withdrew the blade to aim in the direction of the intruder.

A warm hand caught her wrist, and the struggle ensued for a mere moment. She had readied a shout as her free hand fumbled to pull herself away. Another hand pressed against her lips.

"Ameki…" Sesshomaru's voice warned. His hot breath danced against her ear, and flowed onto her cheek causing her own breathing to hitch. It was Sesshomaru. She went still as Sesshomaru withdrew his hand from her mouth. The room had been dark, and she wasn't sure who to expect upon waking up from such a dream. It wasn't too surprising though. Sesshomaru could usually tell when her dreams took a turn for the worst.

They sat in silence for a few more moments. Ameki listened to the few noises she could decipher from the other rooms. The sounds of slumber could be heard faintly. The snores of Jaken, and the muffled groans of, presumably, Kohaku tossing in his sleep. She let out a small sigh. Reaching her hand out into the darkness, she felt the warm fur that uniformly wrapped Sesshomaru's right shoulder. The Mokomoko. The physical contact sent a surge of relief through her. She had watched as the dream Sesshomaru had slipped away so easily, and yet there he was in his physical form. Her mind wandered back to her dream. The white haired woman, the Bai Long as Yakunan had called her, wanted this physical Sesshomaru to disappear from Ameki's life as well.

The thought pained her. She felt the swell of emotions in her chest as well as her eyes. The tears threatened to escape, but she didn't care.

"I didn't mean to startle you." His voice came again from the darkness. He had caught her by surprise upon waking up from such a confusing dream, but that wasn't the cause of her tears.

"Please. Please don't leave." She whispered. Her words finished, leaving nothing but silence in the room. She couldn't see his face, or his expression and for the moment she hoped that he couldn't see hers either. She stifled a cry, trying her best not to alert anyone else in the house to her sudden distress. It wasn't something the others could help with anyways. She was also certain that Sesshomaru wanted to keep his presence quiet. She was sure that Kohaku would be able to sense him near, but doubted he would pry into Sesshomaru's business. Kohaku and Sesshomaru seemed to have an understanding.

Ameki kept her hand on the fur of the unmoving Sesshomaru, hoping that in some way her touch would keep him anchored.

"I'll stay." The soft words spoken carried to her, caressing the hurt she felt. Hurt that she couldn't understand.

The fur beneath her hand disappeared. Ameki heard the slight creak of the floorboards beneath Sesshomaru's weight. The sound resonated from beside her mat. She felt a slight disturbance in the room's, otherwise stagnant, air. The pressure of the blade she held in her complacent hand was alleviated. She heard the small clatter as the blade was placed on the wooden floor a distance away. Finally, a hand that guided her to lay down. The Mokomoko was beneath her head. The fur was warm and welcoming as it usually was for her. She turned on her side, gathering as much of the fur as she could into a comforting clutch that rested below her cheek. Inhaling his scent was enough to calm her mind.

"Rest for now." He spoke. His voice came from an area above her head. From the position she could guess that he sat beside her mat, releasing the Mokomoko for her comfort.

"Tomorrow we will talk." Ameki's mind filled with dread once more. He knew something wrong. Otherwise, he wouldn't have shown up out of the blue. What could she possibly tell him? That this strange woman claimed he would hurt her? Or that the only way to save them both was to part ways? There was much she didn't understand about her dream, and she didn't want to share that confusion with Sesshomaru just yet. He already had enough to worry about as it was. For now though, he was there.

"Thank you, Sesshomaru." She whispered.