Author's Note

In an attempt to appease you people I decided to have them play a little game of tag last chappie and you all were like, "why are they not so depressed?" well fine then…that's the last time I try and lighten a mood…lol…joking… anywho here's the chappie!

SammySama


Scene change lyrics from "Perfect Enemy" by T.A.T.U


Chapter IV: The More People I Meet, The More I Like My Dog

Bright rays of light began to filter through the forest's edge; shadows dancing across the grass of the small hill over looking the village. The residents of the small town just beginning to stir; the new day prompting much work needed to be done and no better time to start.

The young ruler sat with crossed legs atop the small hill; eyes closed as she concentrated on the ones around her. Spanning her powers outward she was able to sense the people farther out and in other villages; looking for anything that may lead her to Naraku or anyone he was associated with. She felt as two familiar auras neared her; one smaller than the other.

Violet orbs opened just in time to see a small fuzz ball leap towards her, the small puppy landing square in her lap as it sprawled itself over her crossed legs.

"How long have you been out here Ally?" questioned the young man who'd followed the dog; his ginger eyes full of concern for the young maiden, "And what are you doing?"

"Since InuYasha and Kagome left," Ally replied, watching as the young man moved closer towards her and sat beside down beside her, "And for your information Soshi, I'm meditating."

"Meditating?" Soshi inquired sarcastically, "How can you meditate when you can't keep your mouth shut for more than five minutes?"

"Very funny," The young ruler muttered crossly, "What are you doing anyway?"

"Looking for you," Soshi answered, crossing his legs as well, "Thought you might have gone after Naraku on your own; plus I wanted to be out of there before Sango woke up."

"That wasn't very nice," Ally commented, "No I was just trying to see if I could find anything relating to Naraku around. See if I could detect if he was near by."

"Did you?" Soshi questioned.

"No," came the young woman's response as she sighed, "I didn't unfortunately."

"Where are those two anyway?" The young man asked, peering around him for any sign of the missing couple.

"Making their way through the forest," Ally answered, closing her eyes once more, "They're heading back this way."

"Well then," Soshi replied, standing from his previous position; brushing of the dirt that had collected there, "I'll head back to the hut."

"Okay," Ally said.

"You coming?" Soshi questioned.

"Nope," The young ruler answered, "I'm going to stay here for a bit more."

"All right then," The young man sighed, turning from his mate and making his way back to the small hut he shared with the rest of their group.

"I am one with the fluff," Ally stated, stroking the small dog in her lap affectionately.

"You've got to be kidding," Soshi commented, shaking his head as he ventured further from the young woman, "Some times I wonder about that woman."


Why should I welcome
Your domination
Why should I listen
To explanations


The couple treaded down the warn path; the same path taken by countless travelers before them on their way to the small, serene village. After their short 'play time,' the young miko had quickly fallen back into her depression; seeking comfort from her mate as they made their way towards the hut.

"InuYasha," She questioned, lifting her head slightly from the hanyou's shoulder to gaze into his molten orbs, "What are we going to do now?"

"Well Kagome," InuYasha answered, tightening his grasp on the young maiden's shoulders, "We see if we can find any news on Naraku's whereabouts and track him down. I can't really think of anything else we can do."

Kagome sighed, "You know, I was kind of happy when we first got here."

The hanyou nodded, "I was too, it's good to be back."

The boundary of the forest was less than ten feet away, the young miko stopping their movements.

"What's the matter Kagome?" InuYasha questioned, concern filled his molten pools.

"What are we going to do after this is over?" Kagome inquired, her hazel orbs locking with her mate's golden ones, "When we get Amaya back, what next?"

"We go home," The hanyou stated as if it was the obvious answer, "Why?"

"But where is home?" The miko asked cryptically.

After a momentary pause the young man answered, "Where the heart is?"

Shaking her head she clarified, "I mean are we going to stay here, or go back to my time?"

InuYasha thought about it for a moment, why had she asked such a question?

"Why do you ask?" The hanyou inquired, "I mean does it matter? As long as we're together and Amaya is with us, does it honestly matter where or when we are?"

Kagome nodded, "I saw how happy you were in the park, how free you looked. You missed all this, the adventure and trees; just the outdoors in general. Didn't you?"

"Yes," InuYasha answered honestly, "But it doesn't matter to me, whatever you decide."

The young miko nodded once more, her hand moving to grip the young hanyou's larger clawed one; pulling him along with her as they continued on their path.

The couple exited the woods, coming upon their comrades all gathered around a large pot in the center of the hill over looking the village.

"We were wondering when you'd get here," The young wolf admitted, waiving over the duo as they caught sight of them, "Come over here and get some grub."

Crossing the short distance needed the two sat down with their friends, the group dishing out the meal they'd prepared.

"We were about to send out a search party," the young hanyou commented, her amused amber eyes locking with her uncle's.

"I'm a big boy," InuYasha replied shortly, "I can take care of myself."

"We know," Ally sighed, passing two plates adorned with food towards the couple, "We've been thinking over what we can do to track Naraku down. Have any suggestions?"

"We figured you all might know what to do," Mia added, scanning over the six members of the original shard hunting party, "Seeing as how you've done this before."

"There are a lot of factors involved with finding him though," The young slayer commented, her hand going to rub her rounded belly.

"Like what exactly?" The young wolf questioned, eyeing the young woman quizzically.

"Well Lady Yumiko," Miroku answered, "Whether or not he's got a castle; or if he's created more incarnations of himself."

"Why would incarnations be an issue in finding him?" The northern wolf's mate inquired, "Wouldn't that be more of a fighting him issue?"

"Do you remember when we fought with Suisei?" The hanyou questioned, turning his amber gaze towards the demon.

"Yeah," The man replied slowly.

"Couldn't you tell that her sent was mixed with Naraku's?" InuYasha continued.

"What he's saying is," Yumiko explained, "We'd be running around the whole country trying to find Naraku by tracking his sent when it's just be his incarnations."

"I think we all know what the real question is here," Kisho sighed, leaning back so he was flat against the grass.

"Who really is Oscar," Ally offered, "And why does everybody want to be his wiener?"

"No," Mia sighed, shaking her head, "It's what can we do to find him."

"We could do what we use to do," The young kitsune offered, taking a bite of his rice, "And just chase rumors around until we find him."

"That would take too long," Miroku replied, "We may run out of time."

"What you all seem to forget is the main principal about Naraku," Ally commented, placing her plate upon the ground, "Is that he loves to toy with you."

"And that really pisses me off," The hanyou admitted, his having been cleaned of food a few moments after he'd received it, now going for seconds, "Why can't he be like everyone else we've fought and just come out and fight us?"

"Because that would make our life way too easy," The young slayer answered, stroking her small feline gently as she laid beside her.

"Hey guys!" Came the shout from a young man, his jade eyes twinkling with excitement, "Guess what I just heard!"

"What Riku?" Ally questioned the approaching man, curiosity getting the best of her.

"I just heard that Naraku was spotted heading North," Riku replied, coming to take a seat with the group, "Some villagers in the town just north of here saw a man fitting his description pass through."

"Well, that's one rumor," Sango sighed, leaning onto the monk's purple robed shoulder, the man's arm snaking around her waist to help support her, "Are we going to follow it?"

"Might as well," Miroku answered, not too keen on the idea, "But it's something…and the only thing we've got at the moment. No sense in not looking into it."

"So how are we going to do this?" Yumiko questioned, taking her swords from their resting place beside her and tying the blades to her waist, "Split up or stay together?"

"Let's divide into three parts and see if anybody conquers us!" The young ruler exclaimed, punching the air above her enthusiastically.

That earned her blank stares all around.

"What?" Ally inquired with a shrug, "It worked for Gaul."

"No it didn't," Kagome corrected, gathering up all the used dishes and stacking them up; preparing to take them back to the elderly miko's hut, "When Gaul divided into three it was weaker and so it was easily conquered, not once but twice."

"Whatever," the young ruler pouted, folding her arms across her chest.

"So I take it we're sticking together then?" Soshi questioned.

The rest of the group nodded, picking up the rest of the dishes and cleaning up their spot. They headed back to the small hut and gathered up their belongings and prepared to leave; heading north, the direction of their only lead.


I'm not pretending
To make it simple


"But what I don't get is why did he decide to come back now if he truly has," The young wolf admitted, his hazel orbs turned towards his mate and partner, "What do you think Shiizu?"

"I think he's come back just to piss us off," Shiizu replied, pale blue eyes narrowed ahead of her, "That's what I think Taru."

"Now, now," The young lord said as their destination came in sight, "Let's calm down. You all know how willing he's going to be this time to come with us."

The small group neared the edge of the large valley, the Eastern Lord making his way up to the travelers; the intimidating great sword strapped to his back: his weapon of choice.

"Kane!" The wolf greeted happily, opening his arms to the young man, "My good buddy! My good pal!"

"What do you want?" Kane inquired, beating around the bush.

"We came to ask you for help," Koji answered honestly.

"Of course," Kane replied, "You couldn't have come all this way out here just to say hi could you…no."

"You make it sound like I'm your pup coming back to you for money," Koji stated crossly.

The young Eastern Lord sighed, "I got a message from Sayo earlier today, I know what's going on."

"Then you know what position we're in," Artemis commented, taking a seat; the rest following her example, "You can't honestly tell me that you will do nothing to help."

"I lent my services last go around," Kane replied, shaking his head, "I think you all can do with out me this time."

"Have you completely gone off your rocker?" The wolf exclaimed, stony grey narrowed towards florescent crimson, "Could we have done it with out you last time?"

"No," came the gentle voice of the young woman behind the Eastern Ruler; the fox-like ears atop her head swiveling in her guest's direction, "There is no way we could have defeated Naraku with out all of our combined strengths put together."

"I thought you were suppose to be on my side Bakari," Kane commented, turning to face his mate.

Bakari shook her head, "I'm on the winning side my dear."

"Why can't we just get on with our lives?" Kane complained, a hand going to rake through his short flaming tresses; gripping the strands in frustration, "Why can't he just stay dead."

"Maybe we didn't do it right last time," Taru offered, "Maybe there's a trick to killing him."

"Like what per say?" Shizzu commented, eyeing her mate curiously, "Like burn him alive? Run his heart through with a wooden stake?"

"That wouldn't work," Bakari answered, "Naraku has no heart, there wouldn't be anything to stab."

"I don't know why he can't just stay dead," Artemis admitted, determined grey orbs locking with the florescent ones of the young lord, "But I know we need to round up the troops and help. There is one person who may be able to straighten all this out."

"No," Kane shook his head, "InuYasha's gone; disappeared to who knows where after we fought him last time. There's no guarantee we'd be able to find him again."

"Where Naraku is," The wolf began, "Is where InuYasha will be. He; more than any of us wanted him dead last time, I have no doubt he'll be here this go around. All we need to do is head west and pick up any clue of where they could have gone."

"I had heard a few rumors that a ominous force had headed north," Bakari commented, the old adventurous spark flaring in her eyes once more, "That could have been Naraku."

"And that's bound to be where InuYasha's heading," Koji added, agreeing with the young hanyou.

"Mihi ignosce; cum homine de cane debeo congredi," The young ruler stated, standing from her sitting position upon the ground next to her mate; brushed off the dirt that had collected there and turned to leave.

Kane stared blankly at the retreating form of the young Northern Ruler; watching as his mate followed, "What did she just say?"

"I believe it was something along the lines of," Koji answered, amusement dancing in his azure orbs, "Excuse me, I've got to see a man about a dog."

The Eastern Ruler laughed, "What language was that?"

"Latin," Koji replied, "It's a dead language now."

"I see," Kane sighed, a light throbbing pain in his side from the laughing caused him a bit of discomfort, "Well, I guess I'm in as well. We better get going before Artemis and Bakari get too far ahead."

Koji nodded, two standing up and followed the two women; their pace quickening to catch up. They were in for one tiring road trip; but with any luck they'd be able to meet up with the hanyou and his group before night fall, but they'd have to hurry.


Try to be something
Experimental


The group had reached the village just north of where they'd been in no time; the trip only taking about four hours; which considering the traveling they'd done in the past was nothing.

Entering the small town, Miroku went about and began to talk to the villagers, trying to find out anything he could about Naraku's whereabouts or finding a suitable place for them to lodge for he night.

"Excuse me beautiful ladies," the monk said as two young women approached him, "You wouldn't have happened to know of anywhere me and my traveling companions would be able to stay for the night or if you've felt anything, strange recently."

"Well there's not many places for a group as large as yours to bed down," One of the young woman replied, looking past the young monk to his traveling party, "But I do know there are two empty huts at the edge of the village. Our town is so small we do not need an Inn because so few travelers even pass through here."

"I understand," Miroku nodded politely, turning to leave; going to find someone else who may be able to aid them.

"Young monk!" The second woman called, causing Miroku to turn his attention towards her, "There is an elderly couple at the other end of the village who were going on about felling something ominous pass over the village midday yesterday. They may be able to help you."

"Thank you," Miroku replied, "You have been a great help to me and my comrades."

The pair waved politely after the group before continuing on their way.

"I think they're setting us up," InuYasha commented, eyeing the two women suspiciously, "I mean an elderly couple feeling an ominous presence and they didn't."

"Some are just not as in tune as others are," Kagome explained, patting the hanyou's arm gently, "It could be that they honestly didn't sense anything."

"Whatever," the young man scoffed, moving to follow the rest of their group in the direction of the opposite side of the village.

The large group of travelers made their way through the few huts of the village and towards a small lean-to at the back of the town, the elderly couple in question out and about in their small garden.

"Pardon me," The young miko said sweetly, "Can you tell us if you've felt anything strange or ominous lately?"

The old woman looked pointedly at her husband, "Go ahead, tell them everything you know. It'll only take 10 seconds. "

"I felt something dreadfully evil pass over head yesterday," The elderly man answered, shaking a bit at the memory, "Horrible feeling really."

"He's been complaining about that feeling since yesterday," The man's wife commented, "getting really annoying honestly."

Kagome nodded, "Could you tell me which direction it headed?"

The elderly man taped his index finger to his chin thoughtfully before pointing towards the north, "I think it was heading north, but I can't be certain."

"Thank you very much," Kagome replied, smiling gently at the couple as she turned and returned to the group, "He said it headed north. It's as good a place as any to start."

"I think we should head out first thing in the morning," Ally suggested, raising her foot up to her hand as she fell to the ground; landing on her butt. Her feet were absolutely killing her; not having been use to so much walking had warn her out quickly and right about now the young woman was just burned out.

"We didn't even get that far yet!" InuYasha barked, annoyed at the groups speed. He was just stressed is all that it really was; so much so he overlooked the fact that the majority of the group wasn't use to such strenuous traveling and one was pregnant.

"Calm down InuYasha," Kagome whispered, trying to sooth the frustrated hanyou, "I'm just as eager as you are but we need to let them rest."

"Feh," Came the hanyou's all to predictable response as he took the lead of the group; guiding them to the edge of the village, the group scanning the border for the supposedly empty hut.

It seemed like their lucky day; not only was there a spare hut they could bunk in for the night, there were two.

The group separated into two; the men getting one hut and the women the other. InuYasha and the others went out to gather wood for their fire and Kagome lead the cooking team. They'd need a lot of food to feed their small army; and the young miko wasn't sure how they were going to do it with only a few pots. They'd have to get creative.


You don't turn me off
I will never fail


The messenger made his way up to the heavily guarded fortress, promptly stopped by the two active guards.

"What business do you have here?" Came the loud voice of one of the guards, the young man peering over the wall down at the approaching man.

"Naito!" The man waved, greeting the young guard, "I've come with a message for Lord Sayo! It's of the utmost importance!"

Naito nodded, signaling for the other guard posted at the gate to help him open the wooden barrier, "Come on lets get him in."

The large gate was opened, the young messenger dashing inside as the heavy wooden doors closed behind him; the man waited for the guard he'd greeted to descend from his post, addressing the messenger.

"What did you bring Kiyoshi?" Naito questioned, eyeing the young man curiously.

"I have a response from Lord Kane sir," Kiyoshi answered, out of breath and panting, "I need to deliver this to him as soon as possible."

Naito nodded, "I'll take it to him."

Kiyoshi handed over the folded piece of parchment, barely legible script written upon the outside layer. Making his way into the castle, Naito ran down the ever winding maze of hallways that composed the inner workings of the Southern Lord's home.

"Lord Sayo!" he called, searching for the said man, "Lord Sayo!"

Not too far up the hall he was presently running down he caught sight of a flash of fiery red hair; knowing instantly whom it was.

"Lady Maru!" Naito called eagerly, trying to gain the young child's attention, "Lady Maru please hold on a moment!"

Maru slowed her pace, skidding to a complete stop; nearly slamming into the solid stone wall. Was that why her father had told her so many times not to run around in the castle? Oh well. Puzzled violet orbs landed on the guard who was in too much of a hurry.

"What is it Naito?" Maru inquired, curious as to why the young man had entered the castle before his shift change. The guard was all about promptness and responsibility; never missing a shift or call to duty and the fact that he'd left his post early confused her.

"I need to find your father," Naito explained, "You haven't seen him have you?"

Maru nodded, pointing a small finger down the hall she'd just come from, "He's out in the garden, he was just behind me so he should be in any moment."

"Thank you," the guard replied, turning to head in the direction the young child had indicated.

"Naito," Maru called, slight worry in her tone, "What's going on?"

"I fear nothing good," Naito answered, never slowing his pace.

The young Lord rounded the corner; nearly colliding head first into the speeding guard.

"Whoa, Naito, where's the fire?" Sayo questioned, coming to a stop before the now panting man.

"This came for you Lord Sayo," Naito informed, handing the folded parchment to the young man, "It's from Lord Kane."

Indigo orbs grew dark with seriousness as he took the folded letter from the young man; opening it to read the hurried message that had been sent to him. Once he'd finished reading the contents his eyes closed, an exhausted sigh escaped him as he shook his head, "Here we go again."

"Was it true My Lord?" The young guard inquired, "Has Naraku truly come back?"

"Yes," Sayo nodded, his eyes opening to meet the deep blue gaze of the guard. A small movement behind the young man catching his attention, weary indigo locked with worried and frightened violet as he continued, "And now I've been called to war."


Things I loved before,
Are not for sale


The young hanyou leaned against the wall of the hut; positioning himself by the door.

The former spy watched the young man with curiosity, "Why didn't you bring a sleeping bag InuYasha?"

"He never sleeps in one Riku," Miroku answered, laying out his own futon in preparation of falling asleep, "He always stays guard by the door, making sure no one comes in or goes out. Plus he wants to be the first one out to the fight."

"I am here you know," InuYasha commented, his tone giving off how truly annoyed he was.

"You know what InuYasha," Riku stated, unrolling the sleeping bag he'd packed and pulling out his pillow, "You need to loosen up, I mean it's great here! The fresh air, clean water; the land free of pollution!"

"And years away from indoor plumbing," Soshi added bitterly, grateful he'd packed a few rolls of the ultra roll toilet paper, "You won't like it the first time you go by a tree to take a dump; grab a leaf and then realize a few hours later it's poison ivy."

Riku grimaced at the image; that would be very unpleasant. The young man sighed, laying down upon his sleeping bag, making himself comfortable; "It's just good to see the land as it once was. I've only see pictures of Japan during the feudal era."

"Only pictures," Seiji repeated, "When were you born?"

The young demon thought for a moment, " June 8th, 1704."

"Damn," the Inu-youkai cursed, "You make me feel old."

"Well I'm older than all of you," InuYasha commented from his position by the door, "I'm 204."

"No you're not," Soshi corrected, "I'm over 476."

"Not now you're not," The hanyou argued, "you're not even born yet."

"That's beside the point," the young demon countered.

"Whatever," InuYasha sighed, "Just shut up and go to sleep."

"With all technicalities aside here," Soshi tried to further the argument.

"I wouldn't do that if I were you Soshi," Miroku advised, "He is not a very good person if he's deprived too much sleep."

"When is he ever a good person," Seiji inquired form his snug position in his sleeping bag.

"When he's not slicing you into little bits with his sword," InuYasha answered, narrowed molten eyes glared at the young man, "Just because you're the pup's mate doesn't mean I have to like you…nor does that prevent me from killing you."

"I'll take that into consideration" Seiji squeaked, shutting up instantly.

The hut silenced after that, everyone drifting off to sleep; needing to gain strength for the day ahead.


Keep yourself away

Far away from me


"I told you to ask for directions Koji," Artemis growled, frustrated at her mate's stubbornness. What was it with men and asking for directions?

"We're not lost," Koji replied eyeing his surroundings, "Just temporarily misplaced."

"Damn you," the young wolf cursed, her stony gaze flashing crimson, "Just sniff them out."

"Give him a break Artemis," Bakari said, "we're all tired and cranky. Don't take it out on us."

The wolf took a deep breath; sifting through all the different scents of the surrounding area, "There's a town up ahead, they may be there."

"Let's go check it out," Kane replied, motioning for the young Northern Rulers to go first.

Something moved in the bushes; the loud rustle catching the group's attention in an instant. They took tentative sniffs of the air, trying to discern if the creature meant them any harm. All of a sudden a sharp metal projectile sliced through the air, several more following the first one; pinning the young northern lord to a near by tree.

In a flash Artemis had drawn her sword making quick work of the bush that held the apparent threat.

"God damn," came the swear from the young woman as she clambered out of the bush, adjusting her robes while still holding one of her knives protectively aimed towards the strangers, "What the hell is your problem?"

"Ally are you all right?" the young miko questioned, coming to the aid of the young woman; having heard her shout she shot out of the hut, bow in hand.

"Yeah they just scared the shit out of me," the woman replied bitterly, "And don't think I didn't mean that literally."


I forever stay
Your perfect enemy


The young woman awoke during the middle of the night; nature knocking rather loudly at her front door.

"Why me?" She groaned, rolling over and outstretching a hand to grope around for her bag. A few moments later she managed to extract the item she'd been searching for. Taking the roll of soft roll of paper in her hand, she tip toed to the door of the hut.

"Where are you going Ally?" the young miko questioned, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes; her deep hazel orbs watching the young woman curiously.

"Just out side for a moment Kagome," Ally answered, a bit embraced, "Nature calls."

Kagome nodded, "Bring your weapon with you, just in case."

"Righty-o," The young woman nodded, returning to her bag and pulling the steel thronging daggers she kept hidden out and securing them to her waist, "Be back in a minute."

Creeping out and around the hut, the young woman ventured into the woods. Once she was satisfied with the distance away she proceeded to take care of her business. Voices grew closer as she hid behind the thick shrub; the last thing she wanted to do was to be found in this of all situations. As they grew closer, she noticed that a few were arguing; none sounding too happy. The aura's around them seemed familiar; though strange at the same time.

She was so sure they wouldn't spot her until they began to proceed towards her camp; getting too close to the shrub she'd taken refuge in for the short period of time. Then, they got too close.

With lightening speed she opened the thin pouch like case her knives were kept in and with drew them; throwing them with all her might towards the unknown travelers. She heard the metal-every one of her projectiles-hit wood and a few protesting grunts followed. Then the unmistakable sound of metal against metal caught her attention; the sound of a sword being drawn from a sheath.

Oh shit.

In two easy strokes the shrub she'd been using as a shield was no more; the leaves floating to the ground as bits of the small branches littered the ground.

"God damn," she swore, clambering out of the bush, adjusting her robes while still holding one of her knives protectively aimed towards the strangers, "What the hell is your problem?"

"Ally are you all right?" Kagome questioned, coming to the aid of the young woman; having heard her shout she shot out of the hut, bow in hand.

"Yeah they just scared the shit out of me," the woman replied bitterly, "And don't think I didn't mean that literally."

"Wait a second…" Ally trailed off, her eyes going wide.

"Well it seems that we won't have to go to the village after all," the young wolf commented, a small smile gracing her lips.

"Good to see you again," Kagome greeted, remembering that the past counterparts of her future friends hadn't seen her in four years, "Artemis."


No longer waiting
Remove illusions


Snow swirled around the northern tundra; the land cast in a year round winter. The large stone castle stuck out in the white, pure winter wonderland of the artic. The demon made his way in from the freezing cold; entering the large strong hold, his crimson orbs looking around the empty corridors.

The small bundle in the man's arms began to stir; the infant's amber eyes fluttering open to gaze up at her captor. Ear splitting wails erupted from the small mouth of the child; her arms flailing about wildly trying to escape the man's grasp.

Balancing the child in one arm he reached into his opposite sleeve, pulling out a small flash and a makeshift bottle. Pouring a small amount of the foreign liquid into the bottle he nudged the container towards the infant's mouth.

Hunger overpowered her need to escape as she greedily sucked down the bottle's contents; her eyes becoming increasingly heavy once more. With in moments the hanyou was slumbering peacefully once more, the ebony appendages atop her head swiveling about in her sleep; picking up even the tiniest movement around her.

The man sighed, a throbbing pain beginning to form in the front of his forehead, "This is why I never had kids."

A low, menacing growl caught his attention as he entered a particularly well decorated room. Around the border of the ceiling were the phases of the moon; each phase painted with blazing silver. An ancient cupboard stood open and empty before him; shelves and hooks with in lead him to believe that weapons of some sort were kept in it at one time.

Turning around, crimson orbs landed on a translucent silver animal; it's spectral form glaring and growling at him warningly.

"Is that all she has here to protect her precious home?" He mused, eyeing the creature before him curiously, "Surely she doesn't think this thing can protect the castle does she? A mere ghost of wolf?"

The wolf growled once more before it launched itself at the demon, teeth bared as it approached then bit the intruder fiercely.

With a violent jerk of his arm and the release of a great deal of Miasma the spectral being released it's captive; the shimmering form of the white wolf dissolving into the air.

The demon gazed down at the newly inflicted wound, the puncture marks caused by the ghostly wolf glowed a dull silver; standing out against the deep purple and blue of his robes.

"Such a minor feat of sorcery," the man commented, shrugging off the injury to his arm, "such as weak curse. It will bring no harm to me, that is certain."

Shaking his head he sighed, looking around the room before exiting and continuing on with his tour. He'd stay here for the time being, well out of reach from the neighboring demons in the area; and well out of reach of the hanyou, miko and their companions who pursued him.


No more complaining
Forget confusion


(Author's Note: These guys will play a bigger part later…just didn't want ya'll to think I just stuck them in here…okay well sorry for the interruption…)

Two young children ran through the flower speckled fields, the pedals of the spring flowers flying into the air as they passed.

The young girl twirled around, her arms outstretched as she spun. Her loose, waist length ebony hair spun wildly around her; the fire red tints to her tresses seemed to glow in the early morning sun. Crimson orbs watched the young man a few feet away from her gather wood; her twirling coming to a stop.

"Come on Makoto," the young girl wined, walking over to the young boy, "Take a break would ya! Come have some fun."

Makoto's scarlet gaze rose to lock with the crimson of his sister's, his scarlet tinted ebony hair spiked up at the top; the tresses being really too short to do much with.

"And if I do that Maeko," Makoto replied, returning to his wood gathering, "We'll have no wood for us to cook breakfast with."

"Fine then," The young boy's sister sighed, a slight pout on her face, "If I help you will you play with me after?"

"Yes," Makoto nodded, gathering a few more pieces before heading back into the woods.

"I don't see why you don't just do this," Maeko commented, waving her hand towards a small pile of logs and moved them in the direction of their hut, "It would make life a heck of a lot simpler."

Makoto dropped the wood he'd collected, his hand going out to grip his sister's wrist tightly, "Don't do that! You know what they would do if anyone saw us doing that! We'd end up just like Mom and Dad."

Tears began to well up in the young girl's orbs, thin crystalline paths trailing down her cheeks.

Makoto sighed, pulling the upset girl to his chest; wrapping his arms around her frail form.

"I'm sorry," Makoto apologized, "I get my mouth get away with me again."

With a sniffle and a nod Maeko pulled away from her brother, then shook her head, "No, you're right. But why did Mom and Dad teach us this stuff…want us to continue learning this if we weren't suppose to use it?"

The older sibling sighed, how could he explain this?

Over the past three years he'd had to raise his little sister, certainly not an easy feat for a twelve year old boy. He'd had to grow up too fast, had to take on so much responsibility in such a short time. Their parents had been the village healers; cared and tended to the weak and ill. Until one day, they had been discovered as being demons and their mother charged with witchcraft. As true as the accusation may have been, that was no reason for them to have killed them. His parents had helped the villagers when no one else could and how did they repay them? Murdered them in cold blood whilst they slept.

They had told them to practice the art; that it would come in handy for them one day, but that they should never reveal themselves to anyone.

"I guess there could be harder questions," he thought, rubbing the bridge of his nose as he released his sister's wrist, "at least she didn't ask me where babies come from."

"They told us that it would come in handy some day…right?" Makoto questioned his little sister.

Maeko nodded.

"Well, there must be some reason for it," He replied, "that we may need to know this stuff for the future…I don't know."

Seeing the frustration in her brother's eyes she gripped his sleeve, tugging on it gently, "Let's just go home."

Makoto nodded, gathered up the discarded timber and the duo headed back to their home.


No more confession
Not sentimental
I am now something
Experimental


Light erupted from the horizon; the group of three making their way through the plains of Musashi, the two tailed dragon bringing up the rear.

"Sesshomaru-Sama," Came the weary voice from the exhausted imp, the staff he carried resting against his shoulder; the height difference making him appear shorter than he actually was, "May we take a rest please my Lord?"

"Yes Lord Sesshomaru," The young woman nodded, the young ward of the Western Lord now about fourteen, "Master Jaken and I are very tired."

Amber orbs softened as he turned to the young woman; never slowing his pace.

"You two may rest atop Ah-Un until well rested enough to continue on your own," Sesshomaru answered, returning his piercing molten gaze to stare straight ahead.

The two nodded, climbing atop the two headed dragon; maneuvering themselves into a comfortable position.

"Why did you insist we travel so far; so fast my Lord?" Jaken questioned, hesitation in his tone at addressing the young demon.

"I fear that there is something sinister lurking in the shadows," Sesshomaru answered cryptically, "And I believe the half breed may know what it is."

The small imp nodded, he would not press the subject for he knew if he agitated the demon it would prove very costly.

Deep hazel orbs watched her lord closely; heavy lidded from fatigue.

"He was afraid?" Rin thought, "Nothing frightened him. Nothing that she knew of…except…"

"Lord Sesshomaru," The young woman spoke softly, "Is it Naraku?"

"I don't know Rin," Sesshomaru replied, never turning to face the young maiden, "But I hope not."


You don't turn me off
I will never fail
Things I loved before,
Are not for sale


The young hanyou emerged from the hut he shared with the other male members of their party; his arms going immediately to stretch above his head earning him a satisfying pop. Turning his molten gaze towards the direction of his mate's scent; seeing that the Northern and Eastern Rulers had already awoken, the two wolves who'd accompanied Koji and Artemis, as well as Yumiko and Kisho. All of them gathered around the young maiden as she prepared the morning meal.

"Good morning InuYasha," The young miko greeted, her warm hazel orbs lovingly watching the young man as he approached her, "Sleep well?"

"As well as I ever have here," InuYasha admitted, crossing to take a seat beside the young maiden; his amber eyes scanned the other early rising members of the group, "How about you Kagome?"

"Pretty much the same as you," Kagome replied, filling a bow with noodles; the hanyou's choice meal of the day now sitting before him, the steam rising to fill his nose.

"Ramen?" the hanyou questioned, "for breakfast?"

"What?" Kagome inquired, "I thought you liked Ramen."

"I do," InuYasha answered, picking up the hot bowl of noodles and the chopsticks placed beside them, "But you've never made it for breakfast before."

The young miko shrugged, "It was the only thing in my back pack and I didn't feel like going to the market or out to find something so early in the morning."

"Doesn't matter to me," InuYasha commented, slurping up the noodles in record speed.

"Thought you'd feel that way," Kagome nodded, turning her attention toward the young wolf. There had been something bothering her since the young woman's arrival the day before; like there was something off about her. A silver aura surrounded her sitting form; though there was the tiniest hint of pale blue to it…almost as if Koji's aura had seeped into hers.

"Artemis," The young miko began, puzzled hazel locking with stony grey, "Has something happened to you recently? Well maybe not recently but since the last time we saw each other? Something big?"

The young wolf smiled from her spot next to the young Northern Lord, lifting her head from the young man's shoulder she nodded. Memory of the day before coming back to her; filling her with the warmth and love only her mate could provide.

.:.:. Flash Back.:.:.

"I told you I'd find you. What's your deal been the past couple of days anyway? Are you still mad about that fight we had?"

The young woman mentally kicked her self, cursing her mate for his sensitive nose, "Just leave me alone you son of a bitch."

"Yep, still mad," The young man sighed, "You know my mother never saw the irony in calling me a son of a bitch."

"That's all very fascinating Koji," The young wolf replied, "But I just want to be left alone."

Climbing up onto the root to sit behind the young woman, he gently wrapped his arms around her small frame and pulled her towards his chest.

"Oh come on Artemis, let me make it up to you. I know how to please a woman," Koji commented, "I can tell you want me."

"You know, you're dead right," Artemis retorted, "I want you to go away!"

"Please just whisper those three little words that would make my day," Koji pleaded, burying his nose in his mate's hair as he took in her sent; which to his surprise was also mingled with his own as well as having an unfamiliar twist to it.

"Go to hell," The young maiden growled, trying to pull herself free from the young lord's grasp.

"I would go to the end of the world for you," The young man admitted, "You know that right."

"But would you stay there?" Artemis replied sarcastically, her attempts at gaining freedom proving to be futile.

After a few moments of careful deliberation, the young demon realized the cause of his mate's scent's change and a soft, loving smile spread across his face, "How do you like your eggs in the morning?"

"Unfertilized," The young woman answered, eyes narrowed ahead of her.

"Well I'm sorry," Koji replied, a light laugh to his tone, "But it's a little late for that."

Stony grey orbs widened as the young wolf whipped around to face her mate, "You mean I'm…"

"Pregnant?" Koji finished, "Yep."

.:.:. End of Flash Back .:.:.

The young wolf's small smile spread across her face; the ruler now beaming at her friend, "I guess you could say something, big happened."

"What was it?" Kagome implored, leaning closer towards her friend; curiosity getting the better of her, "What happened?"

"I'm pregnant," Artemis answered happily, the young miko squealing with excitement.

"Oh my god!" The young maiden exclaimed, jumping up to cross the short distance towards her companion; her long, slender arms going to encircle the young demon, "Congratulations! I'm so happy for you!"

Kisho grinned at the young woman beside him; his florescent orbs sparkling with amusement.

Yumiko rolled her eyes at her mate's antics, "Wipe that grin off your face before I do it for you. We're suppose to be low profile…or did you forget?"

The young demon shook his head, returning to his meal.

"That's what I thought," the wolf muttered, turning her gaze towards the hut the girls were in; hearing the group with in rouse. As excited as she was to find out that her mother now carried her unborn form with in her; she needed to contain her enthusiasm. They couldn't give who they really were away, that would jeopardize too much and too many people…even their mission.

"Jeopardize their mission," Yumiko mused, "Sounds like one of those old spy movies."

Her thoughts were interrupted however as the rest of their companions stumbled out from their huts; the men coming out first and filing around the fire followed by Sango, Kirara and Shippo.

The argument between the remaining duo in the hut the young women shared could be heard by pretty much everyone with in a two mile radius, the pair shouting as they emerged from the shelter.

"It can not be counted as credible," The young hanyou argued, her molten orbs boring holes into the young would-be ruler's, amber battling violet.

"And why not Mia?" Ally countered, "It has plenty of historical basis."

"First of all, it's about King Arthur and the knights of the round table," Mia explained, "Therefore it is fiction. You can not justifiably say that fiction could be credible on explaining events in European history. Fiction is made up."

"What in the world are you two arguing about now?" Seiji questioned, his navy gaze falling on his mate as she made her way over towards him.

"Ally was trying to convince me that you could use Monty Python's: The Holy Grail, to accurately describe European history during the medieval ages," Mia answered, taking a seat beside the young man.

"You've got to be kidding me," Kagome stated flatly, disbelieving eyes turning toward the pair.

Ally shook her head, "I guess no matter how hard you try you still can't always get what you want."

Soshi sighed, "I just can't believe some of the stuff you two come up with sometimes."

"What can I say," the young woman shrugged, "It's a gift."

"More like a curse," Seiji mumbled, taking the plate offered to him by the young miko.

Two sets of angry eyes narrowed in his direction; violet and amber daggers aimed to kill.

"Come on guys," Kagome said, trying to ease the tension, "Lets not fight each other. Save it for Naraku. Now go ahead and eat up, we're heading out soon so better get going before it gets cold."

They all nodded and began to eat their meal.

The young miko picked at her own plate; moving and rearranging the noodles around in her bowl. All the while her mind seemed to stray back to the same dark thoughts she'd been plagued with.

What if they didn't get to Naraku in time? What if it was already too late? What was the demon doing to Amaya in the mean time? So many unanswered questions floated around in the depths of the young maiden's mind.

A little while latter everyone had finished their food; setting their dishes down and began to converse with one another about miscellaneous subjects.

"I'll go and wash these up," Kagome stated, gathering the dirty dishes and placing them into a bucket she'd brought with her; this would make carrying all that she needed to carry to wash easier.

The young miko gracefully stood from her previously sitting position, turned and made her way away from the groups encampment; the small bucket containing the dirtied plates in hand. She headed into the woods; not too far away from their huts she knew there was a stream; the gentle brook ran along the rim of the forest. Submerging the bucket into the water the young maiden began to scrub away at the bits and pieces of noodles that still remained on the bowls.

Stony grey orbs followed the woman's retreat, watched as the disturbed mother moved away from the group.

"I think I'm going to go help Kagome," Artemis informed, standing and heading off to where the young miko had disappeared to; treading along the same path she did.

The young Northern Ruler reached the bank of the tranquil stream; her gaze scanning the surrounding area for the woman she thought had journeyed out that way. Straining her hearing to try and pick up any sign of the miko; she was able to catch the soft sound of water dripping, common at the edge of a brook. However; the lingering sent of salt caused her to follow the sound. Sure enough she found the distraught young woman scrubbing away at the bowls they'd previously been using.

"Kagome?" The young wolf asked tentatively, coming to take a seat next to the kneeling maiden, "Are you all right?"

Kagome shook her head, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs, "No. Honestly I'm not."

Artemis' stony gaze softened as she placed a gentle, comforting hand on the young woman's shoulder, "Kisho and Yumiko told me what happened, about what Naraku did. We're going to help you get Amaya back Kagome, don't' worry."

"I can't help but worry," Kagome replied, shoulders going slack as she let go of the rag; the cloth floating around in the bucket as she lifted it up onto the shore, "Who knows what that monster's doing to her…I can't help but feel that we're running out of time."

The young wolf nodded, pulling the young woman towards her, trying to sooth her frazzled and weary nerves much like an older sibling would, "I understand how you must be feeling. I think I'd be just like you if Naraku had taken my child. But like I said, we'll get her back."

The young miko nodded, "I know. Naraku will pay for what he's done. This time we'll make sure he's good and dead."

"Yes," Artemis agreed, allowing the young woman to leave her embrace; her tears and sobs subsiding, "He is one enemy that will not escape; I will personally see to it that he is 6 feet under by the time I'm through with him."

Their group was unwavering; they would win against their enemy. Failure was not an option, death was not an option. The only option was to win and they were bound and determined to do just that.


Keep yourself away
Far away from me
I forever stay
Your perfect enemy


Author's Note

Well what did you guys think? Did you notice that Artemis was speaking Latin? I hope you did…she will be a little from now on. There's 3 reasons for that.

1. I've had these funny Latin quotes and nothing to put them in and hey! Perfect spot!

2. I thought it would give me good practice for my next year of Latin (Latin III)

3. Since Artemis/Diana-from the 1st story-was based off the Roman and Greek goddess of the moon/hunt I thought it would be funny to have her speak a dead language. And later on there-or not I haven't decided-there will be a funny part about drunk guys and Artemis...real funny.

Well…I hope you all have a good 4th of July! Travel safe it you are going out of town…don't drink too much! And if you do drink DON'T DRIVE! I sound like my father…yikes! Anyway thanks for reading and remember…5 reviews or no update!

Sammy-Sama


Responding to Reviews

AnimeSpiral

its a twin thing -((pulls out large cooking pot)) lets see…I'm gonna need a lot of stuff for this one…((goes over to cabinet and takes out ingredients and throws them in)) gonna need some Fluff…Sadness…adventure…comedy…Koji and Artemis killing each other attempts…Uncle Fluffy's well known attitude…Inu's charm…Naraku's but kicking…((puff of red smoke rises from the pot)) Presto! One damn amazing plot twist! Hope you enjoyed it and thanks for reviewing!

inuobsessed- yes…the 1st story was based on-relatively-both the past and the future…the 2nd one in the future so now…((drum roll)) ladies and gentlemen we're back in the past! The rest of the story…except for the epilogue will be in the past so don't worry. The only thing that can confuse you now is my MANY…MANY characters! Lol. Thanks for Lion's Roar -geeze Alison! I'm going to have to start charging or selling out plugging space for the reviews…your bill has come to a total of ((punches numbers away on calculator)) $150.67. Will that be cash or credit? Lol. Just kidding. Thanks for reviewing and I'll try and remember you're never too tired for your sexy monkey.

Bedard-yes…((sigh)) that was attempt at fluff in a good situation…you all were like: "DON'T MAKE IT TOO SAD!" so I tried to make it better. I'll be a bit more "right for the moment" if you will from now on okay. Thanks for reviewing!

Acaykath-I really didn't intend for it to get so long! The first one wasn't suppose to get so long either but…oh well… I got carried away and what not. You wanna know a secret ((looks from side to side to make sure no one's listening)) I get confused when writing with all the characters I have! I mean-and this is no joke- I have to make a chart for almost every chapter to remember where everyone is! Oh well…things will work out. I didn't really plan to have so many but one thing lead to another and look! I got 50 characters total to work with(not including the InuYasha characters). I did like how you said: "Can't wait to see how they defeat Naraku, after all, how do you attack someone whose holding your pup?" that was like… so summary worthy! Lol! Anyway thanks for reviewing!

Laetitia-Thank you! ((bows)) I'm glad you're enjoying it! I hope you continue to read it and maybe check out my other stories as well!

Cassandra-yep the "shut the hell up stick" was an idea by Kagome Lovely…see! Everybody I do listen and if you have an idea post it in your review and I'll try to place it somewhere…somehow! Thanks for reviewing and keep a look out for the next chapter!


Chapter V: Welcome To Shit Creek – Sorry, We're Out Of Paddles

What will the Inu Gang do now? When Sesshomaru arrives what will happen? The group finds it's much more difficult then they'd first anticipated to keep their identities from their comrades, will they be able to remain 'unknown' for much longer? What's in store for little Maru and her father? How will the small child handle the event? And will the curse placed upon Naraku really bring him no problems or will it in fact do the total opposite? Find out Next Time!