Chapter 5: Rivalry

Upon waking the next morning, Izayoi could not but be thankful for the sleeping draught her father had ordered for her the night before, because as nervous as she was, she would never have slept at all.

As it was, she'd gotten a full nights sleep for the first time since returning home, and that left her feeling refreshed – though still highly nervous.

It certainly wasn't a feeling held by her alone, as even Mei seemed off-kilter and almost clumsy as she prepared her for the day.

With a slight pout, she took note of something she hadn't considered in all the excitement of the Inu Lord's visit – she'd have to wear formal kimono layers the entire summer. The thought made her want to cry. Oh... the only times I'll be able to be comfortable is at night in my own rooms, she thought with a melancholy sigh. I hate layers... whatever male came up with them should have been killed.

Silent, she simply allowed her maidservant to chivy her into the many layers, then brush out her hair 'til it gleamed. After applying a bit of color to her face, Mei deemed her ready to face the day, and with a sour expression, Izayoi slowly moved towards the formal dining area for breakfast, huffing inwardly at how hard it was to even walk, let alone breathe.

Her father was quick to note her discomfort when she appeared in the room, and motioning her to sit after she bowed respectfully, he eyed her with a knowing smile.

"A bit under the weather, daughter?" he asked.

She muttered under her breath for a moment, and then said, "It is these layers. It is extremely uncomfortable, father. They are so hot that half the time I feel faint, it's hard to breathe, and walking takes a great deal of energy. I really detest these clothes." She sighed. "I miss my miko robes a great deal."

At that, her father and brother chuckled, while Airi looked scandalized.

After a moment, her father's laughter died down and he smiled at her. "You will only have to wear the layers for today, my daughter. Touga-sama requested that you be allowed to wear your miko robes as that shows your status to youkai. They are more appropriate in these circumstances with youkai present than formal kimono, he says. I acquiesced."

Looking startled, Izayoi stared at her father, then, when she realized he was not teasing, a wide smile broke out on her face. "Then I must remember to thank Touga-sama for his words. I am looking forward to this summer a great deal more already," she chuckled, her expression brightening. "Now I will be able to enjoy the intrigues and political maneuvering much more."

Ichirou laughed. "It seems you should have been born a male, Izayoi – you seem to much prefer our pastimes to your own," he teased.

"Well," she said, waiting for her father to sip his tea before beginning her own meal, "you must admit, your pastimes are much more interesting than a woman's. The life of a sheltered hime does not appeal to me at all. I am no shrinking violet to hide away from danger, nor am I a mindless puppet to be chivied along to someone elses will. I have a mind of my own, and I do know how to use it."

"That is very evident, my dear," her father chuckled as he eyed her. "I am most proud to claim you as daughter, Izayoi. You will do our house proud, I have no doubt."

No one noticed the acid glance Airi shot at Izayoi.

She flushed with pleasure at her father's words, dropping her eyes, she bowed her head respectfully. "I hope I do not fail you, father. I will do my best to please you."

Breakfast over, the residents of the palace drifted to their own amusements to await the arrival of the Western Lord, and Izayoi chose to spend her time in the gardens meditating on everything that had happened lately. Heading for the cool shade of the sakura trees at the center of the formal palace gardens, she paid little attention to what was around her, enjoying the breeze as she sat and began to clear her mind.

It was peaceful and quiet for a time and her mind drifted, examining everything that had happened to her in the last few weeks without the burden of her emotional responses to those stimuli. It was a necessary vision, and very therapeutic – until her quiet was interrupted by voices speaking not far from where she sat.

At first she ignored the noise, not thinking too much of it – until it occurred to her that the voices belonged to Takemaru – and Airi. Concerned, she lifted herself from her trance, and listened intently to what was being said.

"Tell me, Captain Takemaru," came Airi's youthful voice, "do you really think the Western Lord is a danger to us here? Should I be afraid?" she asked ingeniously, and Izayoi almost rolled her eyes. The girl is far too obvious... Takemaru will lead her around by the nose.

Takemaru was not oblivious to the girl's machinations – she was young and had no finesse. But... she was undoubtedly an insider in the palace – and as such, he could make use of her if he played it right.

After a moment, he smiled charmingly at the pretty girl. "All youkai are to be feared, my Lady. But do not despair – if you see something that causes you to fear, come to me with your concerns and I will take up with your Lord Husband and Lord Hiraku on your behalf," he assured her earnestly. "You should not have to live in fear in your own home."

The two strolled by, unknowing of the witness to their words, and Izayoi stayed silent, listening for anything else. But it seemed Airi had gained what she was looking for, because she thanked the Captain prettily and then dismissed him back to his duties.

I knew she was going to be trouble... but now I actually have something to take to father. Quietly, she stood up and moved back into the palace, quickly ferreting out her father and Ichirou's presences in her father's study.

Approaching the door, she knocked lightly on the frame, sliding the door open and bowing when her father bid her enter.

Her sire eyed her with a frown. "What is it, Izayoi? You look worried," he said slowly, watching her carefully.

"I have just come from the gardens, father. I was meditating when my exercises were interrupted by two voices. When I realized who they were, I began to listen, concerned."

She stopped for a moment, and her father nodded encouragingly. "Go on."

She cast an apologetic glance at her brother, then met her father's eyes. "It was Airi and Takemaru. She apparently sent for him and then asked him if she should have reason to fear the Western Lord's presence. She was very ingenious, but... she is a child compared to the Captain, and I believe he intends to use her as a spy of sorts. He told her that all youkai are to be feared, and that if she should ever feel uncomfortable, to come to him, and he would take up on her behalf with you both."

Ichirou's face flushed as anger overtook him, but before he could rise to go take his young wife to task, his father waved him back to his seat. "Leave them," he said thoughtfully, his eyes going to the windows leading out into the family gardens. "Now that we are aware that Takemaru plans to use her as his eyes into the palace, we can use her to feed him what information we want." His eyes twinkled as he looked back at his son. "And I think this will be a good lesson for her – to avoid the machinations and power plays in this place. She has not the head for these games-" he glanced affectionately at his daughter, "-unlike you, Izayoi. You will be most dangerous very quickly, I think." His voice was proud as he said this.

Before anything else could be said, Kenji rapped at the doorframe, and when bid, entered. He bowed. "My Lord, the Western Lord approaches and will arrive within minutes."

At that, Izayoi's nerves burst into full blown panic mode, and she wrung her hands nervously as she attempted to regain her control. With the iron will her family was famous for, however, she quickly had herself back under control – though she was still wracked with nerves. She just didn't show it.

Hiraku watched her with amusement for a moment, then stood. "Come, let us go to meet our most honorable ally." He held out his hand for his daughter, assisting her to her feet; she fell into step just behind him and her brother, as was appropriate, followed by Kenji. Just as they passed the threshold, Airi joined them, walking demurely behind her husband as though she had not just been troublemaking.

This is it, Izayoi thought to herself, ignoring the younger girl. The reason father called me home – to assist in his meetings with the Lord Touga. I only hope I do not fail him. Taking in a deep breath, she folded her hands as the group came to a halt on the front steps to the palace proper, and Kenji pointed out the streak of light crossing the sky as it neared.

Awed, Izayoi stared at the orb of light, finding it hard to believe that light was a living being – and one of immense power. But then again, this demonstration gives the meaning to that – he is immensely powerful, and there is no telling what other wonders I will learn in his presence.

Hiraku and Ichirou also watched with interest.

He turned to his children with a wry smile for a moment, before turning back with a calm face again. "It would be very convenient to have this ability. Travel would be much less... aggravating - and lengthy," he noted dryly as his son chuckled, and Izayoi nodded ruefully, thinking back over her own recent lengthy and uncomfortable journey.

The orb of light came low to hover before them, then lengthened and brightened before fading, and Kenji moved to stand before his Lord, bowing. "My Lord Touga-sama, welcome to Setsuna." He half-turned and bowed to Hiraku, who was studying the youkai lord calmly. "My Lord Hiraku-sama, this is Touga-sama, Inu no Taisho and Lord of the Western Lands of Japan. My Lord Touga," he faced the inuyoukai, "Lord Hiraku of Setsuna."

Hiraku stepped forward and offered his arm to Touga, who had been studying him just as intensely, and the youkai Lord took his forearm and clasped it. "I am most pleased to finally meet my honorable ally of the house of Setsuna."

Hiraku inclined his head with a smile. He liked what he was seeing – this was definitely an honorable being, human or not. Releasing Touga's arm, he said, "Be welcome in Setsuna, Lord Touga. If I may, this is my son and heir, Ichirou, and his bride, Airi." He waited for Touga to greet his son and Airi, who both bowed politely, and then Hiraku met Touga's eyes knowingly as he stepped aside so that he could get a good look at Izayoi. "And this is my daughter, Izayoi."

Izayoi bowed immediately, not even daring to meet the Lord's eyes. From the moment he had stepped out of the light, her mind had shut down and she knew in a heartbeat – she would never forget the moment that she first laid eyes on him, no matter where her life led her from that moment on.

He was almost impossibly beautiful, golden eyes and silver hair shimmering in the sun and his voice was enough to make her knees weak. It would always be completely obvious that he was not human – no human could aspire to such perfection of face and form as this beguilingly elegant youkai Lord did – and so seemingly effortlessly.

"My Lady," he said, his voice rich and smooth, and Izayoi drew in a deep breath before standing to face him. Steeling her spine, she responded, "My Lord," in a calm voice that belied the turmoil she was feeling on seeing him. She would not shame her house by acting the child before him – she gathered her dignity and turned to gesture into the palace. "Be welcome in our home, my Lord Touga-sama. Please, enter in if it is your will."

Golden eyes measuring and narrowed, he bowed politely and stepped over the threshold. "It is my will to sojourn in the house of my ally. I thank you for your welcome, Izayoi-sama."

Hiraku and Ichirou watched, both listening to the youkai ritual of welcome with interest. Hiraku smiled to himself – she had learned her lessons well, it appeared. Not that he'd ever doubted her – she was very intelligent, after all.

As they stepped into the palace, Izayoi motioned for a servant. "If it pleases my Lord, allow this servant to show you to your rooms so that you may refresh yourself."

Touga looked at Hiraku, who nodded. "Once you have done so, we would be honored if you would join us in the gardens. They are most pleasant this time of year," he said.

"Very well. I will find you, then." With a last piercing glance in Izayoi's direction, he turned and followed the servant from the entry hall, and Izayoi's lungs almost collapsed as she sagged ever so slightly.

"It is him," she whispered to herself, not even noticing her father's sharp glance. The one in my dream – the one I was uncertain of. Takemaru I knew, but the other I didn't... until now. Her brow furrowed with worry.

Hiraku didn't miss her words. "What do you mean, Izayoi? Have you met the Western Lord before?" he asked with a frown.

Startled, as in her worry she'd momentarily forgotten the people with her, she blinked at him. It took a moment, but... "Oh! No, father, that's not what I meant." She shook her head. "It is something entirely different."

Noting her seeming reluctance to talk and her flicked glance in Airi's direction, he quickly sent the younger girl off with orders to rest, telling her she looked peaked. With a pout the girl left, and Izayoi sighed with relief. She'd been far too fascinated by the Western Lord, if the stunned look on her face said anything, though Izayoi could hardly blame her – he was, after all, magnificent.

"What did you mean, then?" Hiraku asked as soon as the girl was out of earshot, and Izayoi sighed, twisting her fingers together as she told her father of her dream the first night she was home. "The first man I knew as Takemaru – but the second I could not see clearly, I could only feel his presence. But I knew he was not human. The moment I felt Touga-sama's aura, I knew – he was the other one in the dream."

They stepped out into the gardens, and Hiraku met his daughter's gaze solemnly. "Was Touga-sama a danger to you, my dear?" Ally or not, I will not give my daughter to one who would harm her, though he does not seem the type.

Her gaze stricken, Izayoi shook her head. "No. But if I don't find the right path between he and Takemaru, our house will fall, father. What Touga-sama's part may be in this I do not know, but our three fates, mine, Touga-sama's, and Takemaru's are tied together in some way."

Turning her face to the sky and missing the glance between her father and brother, she said, "I don't know what your true purpose is in having Touga-sama here for the summer, father, but whatever that is..." she trailed off for a moment, and then finished...

"There is no middle ground in this. We will either rise in power... or we will be utterly destroyed. There is no other fate open to us."

Her pronouncement was met with stunned silence on the part of father and son, because both knew to take her words seriously.

Izayoi had never once been wrong before in her premonitions, and both were deadly certain she wasn't this time, either.

Things had just become a great deal more dangerous.

~oOo~

Touga looked around his room, quite pleased with his accommodations. This suite of rooms would not be out of place in his own palace. It was quite apparent that the Lord of Setsuna was a very wealthy man, not that Touga was surprised by that. But very few had homes of such grandeur as this one, even amongst youkai... and almost none had two.

From what his sources had told him, their Winter palace was even more grand than this one, though Touga was hard pressed to see how that was even possible.

While his own fortress was larger than either Setsuna palace alone, they were comparable in appointment, and it was with a grin that he realized that Hiraku of Setsuna might just be as wealthy as he, himself was.

He was impressed.

The human male was straightforward and Touga was quite comfortable in his presence – he wore his honor like a cloak, and it was apparent that he was also very, very intelligent. Yes... he had chosen his human ally well... and Izayoi was a bonus he couldn't wait to snap up.

He wasn't unaware – she had hidden it well and he'd almost missed it, but she'd been disconcerted by his presence for some reason, and he didn't think it was his form. He was quite curious to find out what that reason was...

But he was pleased by her poise despite her discomfort, and so far, with what little had passed between them, he found that Kenji's words had not done her justice. She would make him a powerful bride – one of beauty and strength that even his people in the end would not be able to deny.

Though he carried very little in the way of baggage, as it truly was not needed, still, he discarded his armor and Tessaiga and Tenseiga, retaining only Sou'unga, as that devil sword could not ever be left alone. Much more comfortable without his heavy armor, the daiyoukai went to the corner where sat a beautiful fired clay jar full of cool water and splashed his face. After drying himself on the small cloth set nearby, he sighed, feeling quite excited – it was time to go out and further his acquaintance with a certain hime.

He was greatly looking forward to it.

But...

There was also trouble brewing in the palace. He'd felt the aura of hatred the moment he'd landed, and though he'd not once looked toward the bearer of that aura, he'd nonetheless been studying his rival. For it was apparent that is what the human male felt he was...

A rival.

He plays a deep game... but the question remains... what does he see me as a rival for? He feels threatened by my presence. Why? Captain Takemaru... just what do you think I am here to take from you?

Shaking his head thoughtfully, Touga slid his door open, and then taking note of Izayoi's aura, made his way towards her, ignoring everyone's curious looks and murmurs as he passed.

On reaching the garden, he bowed to his host. "I apologize for coming into your presence armed," he indicated Sou'unga, "but this sword cannot be left unattended. It is a sentient sword, carrying the soul of a youkai from hell, and can influence those around it. I am immune, and that is why I bear it. In my hands its fury is leashed."

Izayoi nodded in agreement. "I can feel his evil aura from here. It is disturbing."

He looked at her in concern. "Does it cause you discomfort, my Lady?" he asked.

"It is nothing that I cannot handle, my Lord Touga," she replied softly, still eyeing the sword resting over his shoulder. Something about that sword called to her... she just didn't know why. It felt as though she'd seen it before, though that was hardly possible. Her eyes blanked for a moment. "Sou'unga," she whispered.

Visibly startled, Touga stared at her. "How did you know its name, Lady Izayoi?" he asked sharply, and Hiraku and Ichirou both turned questioning eyes on her.

"I don't know," she said, her voice still whisper soft as she continued to stare at the sword hilt over the inuyoukai's back. "The name was just there... and the feeling that I have seen this sword before." Then her eyes sharpened and flicked up to meet Touga's. "But not in your hand... in someone elses."

It was silent for a moment as Touga studied her with narrowed eyes. "Interesting," he finally said softly. "This sword has not been outside of my control in centuries. Sou'unga is a sword of hell, of destruction, and were he to fall into another being's hands, he would drown the world in blood. I would never allow this."

Eyes still mostly blank, Izayoi, seemingly almost in a trance, said, "It is her... my memories of her – Kagome. She knew the sword – I knew the sword. Inuyasha..." she said harshly on a gasp, her eyes suddenly clearing as those in the garden studied her in fascination and no little amount of concern.

Inu... yasha? Touga thought. It is a good, strong name. But who bears it – and how does she know them? And this Kagome? Maiden of the Bow? "Who is Inuyasha – and Kagome?" he asked calmly, waiting for her eyes to meet his.

"I do not know who Inuyasha is, my Lord, that name just came to me, as did Sou'unga's. But Kagome... she is me – somehow. It is through those memories, the Kagome memories," she shrugged, knowing of no other way to describe it, "that the Shikon no Tama comes into play. But..." she looked disturbed, "Kenji has surmised from what I have dreamed that it is not the past we are dealing with – but the future."

Touga's brow furrowed, and he regarded her for some moments in silence. "With that cursed jewel, it is always possible," he finally said. "What memories do you speak of?"

She shook her head, frustrated, and put a hand to her forehead, suddenly feeling dizzy. Closing her eyes tightly against the feeling, she said, "They are just flashes in my dreams. Of Inuyasha, and Kagome. And Kikyou. And the Shikon no Tama. Memories of a wish, and a curse. But they are so vague, and I can yet make no sense of them." She swayed, then, on her feet, and Touga reached out a hand to steady her, startled at the electric feel of her soft skin beneath his fingers.

"Are you alright, Izayoi-sama?" he asked, concerned. This seemed to be taking a great toll on her – but Kenji had been correct. Mysteries and intrigue swirled around the girl. He was completely drawn in.

She sighed after a moment, opening her eyes again. "It is these layers," she said apologetically. "The heat... it makes me feel faint. I am not accustomed to being so constrained by clothing."

Once she steadied herself, she stepped back from his grasp, bowing. "I apologize for my moment of weakness, my Lord, father, Ichirou. I will be fine."

With a glance at Touga in the silence that followed, Hiraku made a snap decision. "My dear, go to your rooms and call Mei to attend you. Have her dress you in your miko robes, then you may return here. I do not think we will offend Touga-sama by having you dressed less formally this day."

Touga bowed. "Not at all. I would prefer to see her in her miko robes, as that shows her status. Youkai are more about status than formal dress. Those who have a uniform or warrior's kimono wear them proudly at all times – even the females."

Izayoi managed a smile for Touga. "I must thank you, my Lord, for giving me the excuse to stay out of these robes for the summer. I truly will enjoy the season much more without them."

The inuyoukai waved off her thanks. "Please, my Lady, it is nothing. I will be glad to see you comfortable."

After a moment of studying him, Izayoi bowed to the three men and with murmured excuses made her way back to her rooms gratefully, sending a passing servant for Mei as she went. Arriving in her rooms ahead of her maid, she began stripping the layers off herself, needing to breathe and not inclined to wait.

When Touga had touched her... she'd never felt anything like the heat that had shot through her body from the point where his hand wrapped around her arm. Unused to the ways of males and females, still, she wasn't naïve, and knew that she was attracted to him. Of course, what living, breathing woman wouldn't be? she asked herself sarcastically. He's almost too beautiful to be real. I mean, I knew most higher youkai were attractive as a rule, but he's... he's so far beyond just attractive it isn't even funny.

Stripped down to her last layer, Izayoi shook her head at herself. No... I must hide that reaction away. He isn't here to pander to the likes of a silly little human, hime or not. I could be nothing more than a simple curiosity to one such as him. It's best to put such things out of my mind.

Her ruminations were interrupted by Mei's arrival, and she submitted quietly to the woman's tutting at her careless disregard for her kimono layers. "Father said I was to be attired in my miko robes for the remainder of the summer, at Touga-sama's request. If you would help me change," she said half-heartedly, her mind still racing over her reaction to Touga – and the events in the garden with his devil sword, as well as the flashes of names and forgotten memories that teased and tantalized but gave nothing away.

Touga watched her as she walked away, eyes narrowed thoughtfully, then once she disappeared from sight he turned to his host. "Would you send for Kenji? I find I have many questions for him."

"Certainly, Lord Taisho," Hiraku said, motioning for a servant and ordering them to retrieve the fox youkai.

"Please, just Touga. I find that the formalities get old and I tire of them. There is no need of them between us, at any rate, ne?"

Hiraku, thinking on his words for a moment, wryly agreed, for if their plans came to fruition, then they would soon be related through marriage. "Very well, Touga, but the same goes in reverse. I also will enjoy dispensing with tireless formula and meaningless formality."

Touga smiled agreeably, and with Hiraku's gesture, the three men seated themselves on the cool grass, speaking idly as they waited for Kenji to appear. Once he did, however, the mood sobered quickly.

"We just had a very odd conversation with Izayoi," he said immediately Kenji sat down. "She recognized Sou'unga, Kenji – and knew his name. When questioned, she couldn't provide much in the way of answers, but mentioned three names – Inuyasha, Kagome, and Kikyou, and the Shikon no Tama. I want you to tell me of all your conversations with her since she has arrived home."

Kenji frowned, surprised and concerned. "She knew Sou'unga? Did she say anything about it?"

"Only that it was not my hand that held it, but another's. That's when she named this Inuyasha."

He smacked his fist into his palm at that. "It is the future she speaks of, I am positive of it," he declared, thoughts running rapidly through his mind. "She mentioned another in one of our conversations – connected to the jewel. Naraku."

"Hell," Hiraku said, concerned. "In what context was that word used?"

"As a name," Kenji replied.

"A spider hanyou," came a light feminine voice, and the the four men turned to look at a much happier looking Izayoi as she neared them. "I gathered nothing else from that one so far. But it was a hated name."

Ichirou patted the ground next to him and she sat gratefully with a small smile in his direction before turning businesslike eyes on the rest of the group. "These things are not for others to hear, and there are far too many ears around. Perhaps we should find another locale to speak in?"

Touga looked around, then smiled slightly. "I will take care of that." With little effort, he raised a small barrier around them, enfolding just their little section so that no one could overhear their discussion.

Izayoi looked up at the shimmering dome above her head with fascination as she probed lightly at it with her reiki. "A soundproof barrier? Intriguing! I would love to know how that is done," she said.

He nodded to her. "I will show you at another time, my lady. But for now..."

Kenji looked at her earnestly as she met his gaze, having felt it fixed upon her. "Lady Izayoi, my Lord Touga has told me that you recognized Sou'unga, and mentioned Kagome again, as well as Inuyasha, and Kikyou. Will you tell me about that?"

"Yes, my lady," Touga said, "I would also like to hear whatever more you can say on this matter."

Izayoi looked at the Western lord for a moment. "Please, my lord, enough with the titles, I get enough of them from everyone else. You are far above me, and have no need to address me so."

"I am not far above you, Izayoi," he said softly, looking at her strangely. "And if you wish me to call you by name, then you must do the same-" he held up his hand as she began to protest, "-I insist."

After a moment, she nodded, reluctantly. "Very well... Touga. So... what do you wish to know, Kenji?" she asked, turning to look at her friend and adviser.

"You spoke of Sou'unga. What did you see?" he asked immediately.

Closing her eyes to better concentrate on her memories, Izayoi said, "That devil sword was not held by his current master. He was held in the hands of another, though I am not sure who the person was. But... the sword was attempting to overpower this person, that much I did get the feeling of. It isn't memories, per se, more impressions, as I don't see any faces though I have the feeling that things will become clearer as time goes by."

Kenji frowned thoughtfully and was silent for a few minutes. Then... "Did you get the feeling that Sou'unga and the Shikon were tied together in any way?"

A frown flittered across her brow and then disappeared. "No... though the name Inuyasha is linked to both. I do not know how – as is Kagome."

"My lady, would you repeat those words for me? The ones you spoke of hearing in your dream?" he asked next, seemingly working his way through a great puzzle.

Izayoi nodded and quoted the words that were now burned into her psyche like words of fire. "Your wish was neither right, nor wrong, wench, and I may now curse you for defeating me. Listen then, to your fate. For as much as you suffered for Inuyasha's love of Kikyou, now you will know what heartache really is. I send you further into the past to meet one who would love you like no other, and that you would love in return far more than any love you could ever have imagined. But you will be fated to lose it all after a very short time wrapped within each others arms unless you finally come to understand which is the correct path. You will have only one more chance to change the fate apportioned to you, miko Kagome."

Touga's eyes narrowed dangerously as he heard her words. They opened up a whole new dimension into things... as if there were not enough complications already. But... his sharp mind grasped onto the words spoken immediately and knew himself as the being she would love, and who would love her. It was too convenient to be otherwise, and truthfully, he wasn't far off such feelings – he was already entranced with her, and knew that deeper feelings would most likely not be long in coming.

His attention snapped to Kenji as he spoke suddenly, as did Hiraku's and Ichirou's, everyone watching the fox with fascination.

"It is obvious that it is the future we are dealing with, and not the past," he sighed. "This complicates things immensely. It seems that at some point in the future, a miko named Kagome will make a wish on the jewel in an attempt to rid the world of it. She does not succeed... but she doesn't fail, either. It is apparent that there is not just a wrong or right wish, as we've always thought, but a neutral one, as well. It is this path she found. But there was another chance granted by a higher power to fix her mistake."

He fell silent, his frown deepening for a moment, and then he fixed intense eyes on Izayoi. "My lady, you are that miko, Kagome, sent back in time according to the curse of the jewel itself. You must choose correctly the wish to destroy the jewel this time."

"But," her brow furrowed in distress, her fair skin paling, "does that mean that I am not Izayoi?" she asked, her heart beating frantically, suddenly afraid. Who was she, really, if she was not Izayoi?

"You may not have been before, my lady, but you are now. You are truly the daughter of Setsuna – the jewel only deals in absolutes. You were once this Kagome – but it erased that future and recreated you in this time as Izayoi. More than likely you will never regain access to all of Kagome's memories, but that is probably for the best. You are no longer this Kagome, but Izayoi instead. You must find your way in this life and make the most of it, and you must figure out the correct wish to destroy the Shikon no Tama," he finished slowly, watching her gravely.

"If you could rid the world of that jewel, Izayoi..." Touga trailed off.

"It shimmers so brightly, pink and beckoning so innocently to those who are susceptible to its call," she said softly, her eyes sad and far away. "But it is deceptive... so wicked."

"Do you have any inkling of what the correct wish might be, my daughter?" came Hiraku's voice, and Izayoi looked over at him, startled. She'd almost forgotten he was there, he'd been so quiet.

She wrinkled her nose as she shook her head, then answered, though hesitantly. "No, father. Not now, at any rate."

"It is awake again, you know," came a casual voice, and everyone looked at Touga with curiosity. "What do you mean?" Izayoi asked.

"Since its birth I have watched over this bauble, hiding it away from those who would covet and misuse it. Until recently it has been dormant... but not long ago it awoke and called out to someone."

Izayoi thought back to her first night home, and what had happened on the moon bridge. "The night on the bridge," she said to herself. "That pulse of pink power, so like my own and yet not. I bet it was then."

"Bridge?" Ichirou asked, frowning in surprise. "Do you mean the one in the family gardens?"

She nodded at her brother. "Yes. My first night back I was woken from sleep by nightmares. I sought solace in the cool of the gardens and came across it. I was intrigued... it had not been there when I was younger."

Touga surreptitiously watched her run slender fingers through the short locks that framed her beautiful face as she spoke to her brother with fascination... and lust. It was undeniable – she was even more beautiful in person than the portrait that Kenji had sent showed, and he was definitely attracted. What male wouldn't be? And she was even more of a catalyst for shaping major events than he had thought... She was intelligent, from her scent she was clean and enjoyed being so, and she had honor, all things that were almost designed to draw the attention of a youkai.

No wonder Kenji had been so fascinated with her.

He looked away from her when Hiraku spoke. "I believe it is just about time for lunch, so perhaps we should adjourn to the dining room, eh?"

Touga stood fluidly and held out his hand to assist Izayoi to her feet before any other could do so, and surprised, she looked up at him in confusion before hesitantly taking his hand and allowing him to. He smiled inwardly with great satisfaction at the tiny shiver that moved over her at his touch. She was just as attracted to him as he was to her.

Dropping his barrier, he waited for the Lord of the Palace to lead the way, and walking near Izayoi, followed along at an easy pace as they moved indoors to partake of the mid-day meal.

Already, the day had proven quite full... and interesting.

He was certain he was going to greatly enjoy his stay in Setsuna.

~oOo~

He looked on the Hime-sama with lust in his eyes!

Takemaru slammed his hands down onto his desk, rage pouring through him at the memory. When the abominable creature had landed, Takemaru had been behind him. But he wanted to see the enemy's face and so he'd moved around to view him from the side, at least.

Even from that position, there was no missing the interest in the animal's eyes. How dare he soil her with his lust – even in thought?! If he wants a rut, he can have one of the bitch dogs that patrol the palace grounds, he ranted to himself. At least they are the same species!

Not for the first time, Takemaru wondered what possible interest a youkai would have for allying himself with a ningen. Normally, the two species interacted little, save for killing each other when their paths crossed. And how did the two even become allies? They had never met personally until this very day.

Perhaps it was time to make use of the 'assistant' that had been foisted off on him by Hiraku...

"Hayate," he snapped, knowing the man, who sat at a small desk just outside his door, would hear. He waited impatiently for the nondescript male to appear, and then spoke.

"Tell me how the youkai and Lord Hiraku became allies," he ordered. "I find myself... curious."

Hayate bowed apologetically. "Ah, Captain, that I cannot tell you, for I do not know. The whole matter was conducted with great secrecy by my Lord. But I believe... the original circumstances surrounding what began it all were rather... accidental, sir," he replied.

"Accidental?"

"Yes. Lord Hiraku has always had a rather open view on youkai. From what I have heard from around the palace, he was traveling once and came upon an injured youkai who had been attacked by a group of enemies. He'd defeated his opponents, but had been greatly harmed, and Lord Hiraku ordered him brought to the palace and given what assistance was needed. The youkai happened to be an aide to the Western Lord, and when he healed and returned to his Lord's fortress he spoke quite well of my Lord to the Inu no Taisho. Thus began the contact between the two."

Takemaru drummed his fingers on his desk thoughtfully as he considered what he'd been told. Precious little, but it was a beginning. He needed more, though... that tale said little about what could have caused the two to defy all tradition, all normal enmity between their races.

After a moment, he said crisply, "Find out what you can about this matter. I wish to know as much as possible about this alliance. What do they seek to gain from each other by it?"

"Yes, sir," Hayate bowed.

"Oh... and Hayate?"

"Yes?"

"If Airi-sama wishes to speak to me at any time, you are to find me, is that clear?"

"Sir." He bowed again and Takemaru waved a dismissing hand, turning his mind to other matters.

Hayate glanced back once as he left the room, no expression on his face.

~oOo~

After the mid-day meal was finished, the women retired to their rooms to rest, though Izayoi chose to use the time to meditate some more instead of nap, leaving the men to adjourn to the Lord of the palace's study.

Hiraku chose not to beat around the bush.

"So tell me, Touga. Do you find my daughter suitable for the role we have planned for her?" he asked bluntly.

Touga met his gaze with an amused twinkle, liking this human Lord more and more. He was coming to think this man was his intellectual equal, and that was no mean feat for a human to pull off.

"From what I have seen so far, yes. She will deal well in the youkai courts, holding her own quite easily."

Hiraku eyed him for a moment, then said, "And perhaps now that we are face to face, you will tell me what it is you really wanted my daughter for, Touga? You aren't about to take a ningen to wife for a simple alliance."

There was silence for a moment, and then Touga burst out laughing. Oh, yes, I am going to like this man quite well. "How very astute of you, Hiraku," he finally replied as his laughter died down. "Nothing much gets past you, does it?"

"I try not to let it," he responded wryly. "It would not do for my people to think me senile."

"Ah, yes, senility. One of a few ailments that youkai and humans both may suffer from," Touga chuckled.

"Truly?" asked Hiraku.

"Oh, aye. I have a swordsmith – best in his field, but senile as any human could ever be." He stopped for a moment and thought about it, then finished, "Though I suspect the senility isn't quite as entrenched as he tries to make us all think."

Hiraku grinned, then prompted his guest once more. "So... the answer to my question, then?"

"And there is the proof that you are not senile," Touga responded with amusement, before sighing. "The youkai political structure is diverse and murky, but there are four cardinal Lords. I am the Western Lord. The East is ruled by wolf youkai, and the South by Hawk youkai. But the North... the North is ruled by dragons – Lord Ryukotsussei being my northern counterpart. He, however, is not content with his rule – he wants the West, as well, and I will never allow that." His voice had roughened a little on the last part, and Hiraku was made aware that there was no love lost between the dragon and the dog.

"So this dragon is attempting to take your lands from you," he said musingly, turning the situation over in his mind. "Obviously, it has not gotten to outright war yet... so he must be trying subversion at this point."

"Very astute of you. You are correct. For now, he has sent his rather... promiscuous daughter to attempt to seduce me into a marital alliance, or barring that, to winnow her way through my courtiers to find out what I am doing," he said, smiling darkly. "Needless to say, I would never bed one who was so free with her favors, let alone a dragon. But I have no doubts that once he gets tired of her lack of progress he will simply challenge me by invading my lands."

Over steepled fingers, Hiraku regarded Touga steadily as he listened to the male speak. He was beginning to suspect where this was going, and wanted to see if he was right.

He was.

"With Izayoi by my side, he will not stand a chance. She is something that he cannot counter or defend against. I have searched far and wide and there is not another miko of her power anywhere – neither light, nor dark." With another tight smile, he continued, "As it is your duty to do whatever it takes to defend your own lands and people, so too, is it mine, and I would be remiss not to take the advantage having your daughter as wife would afford me."

The room fell silent as Hiraku and Ichirou took in Touga's words and considered them. Hiraku was rather unhappy with the unsaid but implied fact that Touga would expect Izayoi to go into battle. She was his daughter, after all, and wars killed people. He didn't like the thought, though he could perfectly understand Touga's position. After all, he was correct – they were, in the end, in the same boat. They both had duties to their lands and subjects that could not be set aside for personal feelings.

After a time, he sighed, and flicked a glance at Touga. "I will not pretend to be happy with what you have told me. I would never wish to see my daughter in combat. But I understand your position, as I'm sure you knew I would."

"You worry needlessly," Touga said, a small smile on his face as he thought back to some of Kenji's letters. "Izayoi has already seen combat, you know. There were several times the shrine was attacked by lower youkai and even bandits, and like all the other miko and miko trainees, she was expected to defend the shrine. From what I have been told, she was unphased by battle, destroying her opponents with no hesitation. Wish it or not, but your daughter is already a warrior."

Before Hiraku could respond to that information, a rap came at the door to his study, and in a curt voice he called for the person to enter. His expression sharpened when he saw that it was Hayate.

"Speak."

"My Lord, Captain Takemaru has ordered me to find out everything I can about your alliance with the honorable youkai-sama," he bowed towards Touga, who was listening unashamedly and nodded in acknowledgment, "he wants details. He has also made contact with Airi-sama and wishes to use her as his eyes into the palace, giving me orders that he is to be notified at any time if she wishes to speak with him."

"Is that all, Hayate?"

The man hesitated, then shook his head. "No, my Lord. There is... a mystery as to the Captain's background. It is very possible he is not who he claims to be. So far all I have is suspicion, so I was not sure I should speak of it, but I will find out more and then report back to you."

Hiraku nodded and thought for a time, then said, "I will think on what I want the good Captain to be told. In the meantime, if he asks, stall him and tell him you are trying to find someone who knows what he asks."

Hayate nodded and faded out of the room at his Lord's command.

"It seems that there is, indeed, much mystery surrounding our good Captain," said Hiraku mildly, and Ichirou, who'd been silent until then, snorted.

"I told you that, father. The man is not right. And I like not his obsession with Izayoi. He desires her."

Touga's eyes sharpened on the Setsuna heir, and he asked, "What makes you think that?"

Ichirou glanced at his father, who was also looking at him questioningly. "The day I took Izayoi out to the yards to practice shooting, I caught him staring at her with longing. He was very quick to hide the expression, but he wants her, I am sure of it. It certainly answers his single-minded desire to put guards on her. He wants no other near her."

Touga settled back and thought about that. So... she is what he considers me a rival for... I wonder what made him think that I was here for her? Eyes narrowed, he said slowly, "I could feel his hatred the moment I arrived... and the fact that he saw me as a rival. But I was uncertain what he thought I was here to take. However, now it seems he suspects I am here for Izayoi. What would have given him that impression?"

Hiraku looked interested at that. "Indeed... it is not as if the details of this alliance are known. Only Ichirou and I are fully aware, as well as Hikaru and Kenji. Or does he merely feel jealousy of any male in contact with her? It is a question, that. How much does he really suspect?"

Shifting in his seat, Touga cast a rather mischievous look at Hiraku. "I know how to at least figure out if it is myself specifically he feels threatened by in regards to Izayoi, or any males. I feel the need for a demonstration of Izayoi's skills with her weapon..." he trailed off as the light of understanding dawned in Hiraku's eyes.

"But how will you be able to tell just from that?" Ichirou asked, confused.

"By scent," Touga chuckled. "I am, after all, Inuyoukai. Scent tells me much."

Brows raised, Hiraku and Ichirou glanced at each other, and then matching wicked grins crossed their faces.

"By all means, why don't we have Kenji and Izayoi join us in the yards," Hiraku chuckled as he called out for a servant to send for the fox youkai and his daughter.

"Why don't we?" Touga asked urbanely as he stood, and all three men one in mind, they piled out of the room and headed for the training yards.

~oOo~

When Kenji and Izayoi finally joined them, both looking with curiosity at the three men, Hiraku said, "Touga would like a demonstration of your skills, Izayoi."

She blinked, then looked over at Touga. "Skills?" she asked cautiously, wondering which skills he was talking about.

With a sharp smile, Touga responded, "Yes. Perhaps you and Kenji would give us a demonstration of your skills in fighting with a staff."

Dead silence met his announcement, and Izayoi winced.

"You have been trained to fight with a staff, as well, Izayoi?" came her father's voice, and taking a deep breath, she met his eyes apologetically.

"Yes, father. It is considered best to train a miko in more than just the bow, which only works for distance combat. If a youkai got too close, she would then be unable to defend herself. It depends on the aptitude the girl shows which close-range weapon she is trained with."

"And you showed affinity for the staff?" he questioned, his voice neutral, causing Izayoi to wince again.

She knew he was upset, just from that tone.

"Hai, father. I did not take as well to a katana, but a latent ability with the staff was found, and so I was trained with that."

"I see," he said, glancing at Touga. "And you knew this?

"Kenji reported this to me. I was not aware that you did not know," he replied.

Hiraku looked over at Kenji. "And why did you not see fit to tell me of this, as well?"

Kenji glanced at Izayoi, but before he could answer, she did.

"I am sorry, father. Kenji usually didn't report to you, did he? I always told you what I was doing. It was my decision not to tell you of this," she bowed respectfully. "I was uncertain of how you would react."

With a sigh, Hiraku waved a hand. "We will speak of this later, Izayoi. For now, I too, wish to see your proficiency with this new weapon." He looked around, then motioned for a soldier to approach. "Find Captain Takemaru, and have him bring two staves with him," he ordered curtly, and the soldier bowed before running off. He left behind a stilted silence as Izayoi tried not to show her upset.

It took a few minutes, but soon enough, an aura seething with hatred neared and Touga watched Takemaru quite blatantly and almost challengingly as he approached. The Captain held his gaze daringly, letting him see his disdain, before bowing barely acceptably to his Lord.

"You requested staves, my Lord," he said as he stood back up and handed over the two he carried. Hiraku hefted the weight of each one, and finding them acceptable and comparable, he handed one each to Kenji, and to the shock of Takemaru, to Izayoi.

"Clear a practice yard, Captain. I would see my daughter's skill with her secondary weapon."

With crisp efficiency Takemaru had a yard cleared, and as a crowd stood around to watch, Izayoi and Kenji took position in the center. There was stillness between the two for several seconds, and then...

Kenji exploded into motion, attacking with brutal efficiency. Hiraku and Ichirou both held their breaths, certain Izayoi would be injured, but were both surprised when she responded in a flurry of smooth movements that surprised the hell out of every male there – save Touga. He'd already been told of her mastery of the weapon, after all. She'd been training with it for almost three years.

The crack of the staves meeting time and time again kept the entire yard spellbound as they watched the delicate appearing hime defend herself quite ably and even attack her opponent, forcing him back.

But Hiraku's attention was divided, though no one would have noticed that, as was Touga's. He monitored Takemaru's scent, and caught nothing within it towards Kenji except hatred. Perhaps it was time to see what difference it would make were she to have a new opponent...

He spoke quietly to Hiraku, who did not respond except to clap his hands loudly to gain the attention of the two sparring, who broke apart and looked to him questioningly.

"My dear," Hiraku said, glancing at Touga, "our honored guest has requested a spar with you. Are you up for such a thing?"

Izayoi froze, her eyes widening as she looked over at the handsome Western Lord. "Ah... my Lor-" she broke off as he cocked a brow at her, "-uh, Touga... I don't think that's a good idea. I am in no way in your class."

He stepped forward and held out his hand for Kenji's staff, twirling it expertly as it was handed to him. "My dear, I doubt any here would be in my class, simply because I have been training with weapons for centuries. But you should know I would not hurt you. I will simply test your skills – and perhaps you will learn a few new tricks, eh?" he said, amusement shining out of his golden eyes at her. "Think of it as furthering your training."

He flared his nostrils as he caught the scent of virulent hate and jealousy from Takemaru. So... it is indeed me that he feels threatened by. It would be interesting to know why he feels that way... what has given him that fear. Is it suspicion of what we are attempting, or just instinct?

His attention was pulled back as Izayoi spoke. "Very well, my Lord," she said reluctantly, setting herself defensively and watching him closely for movement.

Moving to stand opposite her, he studied her stance and then leapt, using only a tiny fraction of his speed to attack, and with that, the battle was engaged.

He was impressed with her; though there was certainly room for improvement, she was indeed skilled, and with more training would become quite dangerous. He wondered what other weapons she might show aptitude for.

With a lightening flurry of moves and a loud crack, he disarmed her, the staff landing at her feet, and he stepped back with a charming smile. "On that last move, you took my blow too low on the staff, allowing me to twist it from you, Izayoi. Next time, meet me just a little higher," he said, and frowning, Izayoi bent to pick up her staff and nodded.

"Hai."

Stepping back into the ring, he repeated that same flurry of blows, just a little slower this time, and sure enough, she caught what he was speaking of and did as he'd said. This time, he was unable to part her from her weapon, and after the series of blows was finished, he stepped back and lowered his staff with a pleased smile.

"You are quick and indeed talented with the staff, Izayoi. Very well done." With a bow, he crossed the staff over his chest and then stepped out of the ring, letting Izayoi do the same. He once again twirled the weapon, and with a thoughtful expression, said, "It would be nice to begin the morrow with a good spar with katana. Is there anyone who would be willing to rise at dawn and accommodate me?"

Takemaru took the bait, just as he'd hoped. Barely polite, he stepped forward and said, "I would spar with you. Dawn, here. Is that acceptable?"

Touga met the man's gaze for a moment, looking him over with open amusement, then tossed him the staff, watching as he caught it expertly. "Very well, Captain...?" acting for all the world as though he did not know the man's name.

"The name is Takemaru. Takemaru of Setsuna."

Touga smiled coolly. "Then, Captain Takemaru, I will meet you here at dawn. Til' then," he said, turning and holding out a hand to take Izayoi's staff, tossing it to Takemaru as well, then taking her arm and following the Setsuna Lord and heir back into the palace.

He was very aware of the rage in the man he was leaving behind.

You have bitten off more than you can chew, Takemaru. You cannot rival me.

I will enjoy seeing you try, however.

A wicked smile crossed the face of the towering Western Lord.

I am perfectly willing to be your downfall.

~oOo~

Edited 8/11/13