Kagome stumbled and fell, landing roughly on the cold, hard, earth. Crying out in pain, as she landed on her left wrist again, she lay there for a few moments. The young princess had been running for what felt like hours. And although she was almost positive she was no longer being followed, she still feared Bankotsu and his men were close behind.
She shuddered at the sight of the battle that had just taken place. No… it was not a battle, it was a massacre. They had slaughtered her guards, her only form of protection. They meant to kill her. Nazuna wanted her dead, but why? And to make matters worse, Chijin had not caught up with her. Praying her horse did not meet the same fate as her guards, Kagome looked at her surroundings. She did not dare stay in one place for too long, for fear that Bankotsu and the others would be after her. But which direction should she take? Never in her entire life had she been outside the palace grounds. She did not even know which direction to go.
Slowly she stood up and made her way to a tiny stream. Kneeling, she greedily drank, savoring the sweet tasting water as it rejuvenated her thirsty body. When she had her fill, she wiped her hand across her mouth. She closed her eyes, trying to focus. What could she do? How would she know which way to go?
She heard the song of a swallow fly overtop of her. An idea struck in her. She looked up and located the bird, calling to it, in a tongue long forgotten, and unknown to many. At first, the swallow looked curiously at her, but suddenly chirped back.
"Please," Kagome begged in the bird's foreign tongue, "Which way to Musashi?"
The bird twittered back; Follow the current of the brook.
"Thank you," Kagome replied.
She stood and began to trek her way through the forest, following the steady flow of the stream. She had to get help. There was no telling what Nazuna and Bankotsu were planning, but Kagome knew they were heading towards Musashi. Somehow, she had to warn the youkai king of the traitors, and then send word to her mother that she was well.
For three days she wandered on her own, using the brook as her guide. The swallow checked on her occasionally, chirping to her in conversation. Kagome was grateful for a little bit of company, but she was growing weary. Though it was a wise decision to stay by a source of water, it had been days since she had eaten a decent meal. At times, she was able to find some wild mushrooms to munch on, but they were hardly filling. However, she moved at a relentless pace, too scared to slow down, even though she was almost positive if she was being followed, they would have caught up with her by now. At night she dozed fitfully, nursing her left wrist to the best of her ability. The slightest sound would send her into hiding, and when she finally did find a moment's peace, nightmares of her guard's fallen faces would haunt her.
On the fourth day, Kagome dragged her weary feet. Each step she took was agonizingly slow. Hunger was gnawing away at her insides, making her weaker by the minute. Dizziness began to creep up on her. Kagome groaned. She didn't think she could take it. The pain in her wrist was becoming unbearable. It was swollen, and because she had been negligent to treat it, a fever was beginning to creep over her already defenseless body.
A wave of nausea suddenly overtook her, and Kagome fell to the ground. She rolled over onto her back and closed her eyes. She could not succumb to defeat yet. But, she lacked the strength to keep going. Dizziness engulfed her senses, and she felt tears begin to sting at the back of her eyes.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a tiny speck of red buried beneath a vine of green leaves. As she fought off the wave of dizziness which threatened to destroy her, Kagome used the last of her strength to pull her body over to a small patch of wild strawberries, nestled on the forest floor. She ate them greedily, satisfying the pain in her belly. Somewhat refreshed, the girl rose to her feet, with her new found strength and pressed on.
On the seventh day, the fever which had taken course was in full force. Sweat dripped down her frail body, and she dragged her feet. She tried to drink as much water as possible, but nothing seemed to satisfy the thirst which burned her throat. There was little vegetation to gather in this part of the forest, but even if there was, Kagome did not have the strength to look for it. Exhausted she collapsed to the ground in a heap.
'Hopeless' was the first word to cross through her mind. With no sense of direction, she would never reach Musashi in time, let alone survive the journey there. Nazuna would win, and the thought of her former best friend, yet again, outdoing her was more than she could bear. All she had ever done was look up to the older girl, strove to be eloquent and thoughtful like her. Kagome had always wanted the gift of people speaking, and Nazuna had it. So, why did Nazuna have to use the gift in such a cruel way? She'd murdered Kagome's guard, and aligned with six of the cruelest men Kagome had ever met. Why was she doing this? Kagome had to find out, even if it killed her.
Thoughts of Chijin, floated through her mind. Was her noble steed alive? She had no idea, especially after Kagome witnessed the gruesome deaths of her guards.
Kagome felt the wind whisper across her hot cheeks. She closed her eyes as tears silently rolled down her face. She was so incredibly tired. The heaviness of sleep was overpowering, she knew it wouldn't be much longer…
"Mother," she whispered, "I wish I was who you wanted me to be…"
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The small little creature looked curiously at the girl sleeping on the bed. He sniffed her…she was definitely human, but what was a human girl doing alone in youkai territory? He had found the girl two days ago in the forest, just beyond his home. She had been unconscious, and it took all of his might to drag her limp body back to his home. After all, he was just a kid. It wasn't easy to carry someone who was twice your size.
"Kaede-baba, when will she wake up? It's been an awfully long time," the young boy asked the older woman standing behind him.
"Patience, Shippo, she has been through a lot," replied Kaede. The old woman bent over to stir the stew she was brewing over the fire. She was well into her sixties, the wrinkles on her pale face willingly telling the story of a difficult life. She gently adjusted the eye patch covering her right eye. Unusual, it was, for a young human to find their way so deep into the Dark Forest; and a girl nevertheless.
Kaede added more wood to the fire, and stoked it carefully. Then she went to the cupboard, and pulled out several jars full of herbs and remedies. Choosing her desired remedies, the old woman set about making a poultice to lie upon the young girl's forehead. It would ease her pain and help reduce the fever that raged through the girl's body.
She was just about done when Shippo cried out excitedly, "Kaede-baba, she's waking up!"
The old woman turned and watched with earnest as the young girl slowly groaned and fluttered he eyelids open.
The first thing Kagome noticed was the warmth she was wrapped in. The second was the soft bed that cradled her weak body. She willed herself to open her eyes. Was she dead? Is that why she was so comfortable? Painfully, she withdrew from her sleep. She blinked once, twice. What in the world? She was in a little room, a home of some sort. It was poorly lit by several candles. Dried herbs hung from the rafters of the ceiling. The walls were nothing more than plaster and straw, whitewashed to give it a more clean appearance. The floors were dirt, lined with homespun straw mats to make the room more decorative. A small fire crackled in the fireplace. Just in front of it, a table with two chairs sat, with earthen bowls sitting upon it. She could smell something delicious cooking, but it was the fragrance was unfamiliar to her. However, it made her stomach growl in anticipation.
"You must be hungry," said a young boy's voice. "You haven't eaten in two days!"
Kagome jumped. It was then that she noticed two pairs of eyes looking at her eagerly. The first was a young boy, who appeared no more than the age of six or seven. He had bright red hair pulled up into a ponytail. His green eyes twinkled with a mischievous flare, but it was the rest of his appearance which was the most startling. Instead of feet, he had paws on which he stood upright. Two small fangs poked awkwardly out of his little mouth. And, to top it all off, there was a bushy little red tail poked out of his backside, matching his hair perfectly. He was dressed normally enough, in a pair of blue pants, and green shirts topped off with a vest, but Kagome couldn't help the next words to come out of her mouth,
"A demon!"
"A kitsune!" replied the little boy. He smiled and jumped playfully on the edge of the bed. "I found you the other day in the forest! You've been sleeping for two whole days! What happened to you?"
Kagome was so startled she didn't she know where to begin. "I…I was lost."
"I'll say you shouldn't be traveling alone through the Dark Forest you know! You're lucky I happened upon you. If it hadn't been for me, you probably would have died!"
Kagome almost laughed at the young demon as he huffed out his chest in valor. "Then I really must thank you for saving my life," Kagome said sweetly. "Can you tell me where I am?"
"You are near Hakerai, part of the Dark Forest. The real question is where you came from?" said an older woman suddenly. "It is not wise to be traveling alone in these parts, especially in such finery," remarked the old woman as she motioned towards Kagome's ruined traveling dress. It was caked in mud and muck from her treacherous journey. She sighed out loud. What was she going to say? Surely, these people would not believe her horrific tale. Could she really trust them?
"What is your name child?" asked the old woman.
"My name?" asked Kagome. What was she going to do? If she was this close to Musashi and she was in youkai territory, surely they might know of her name as the betrothed to the prince. No, 'Kagome' would not do until she set things straight. Besides, Bankotsu, Nazuna, and the others were still out there. If word that she was alive slipped, they might come after her.
"Yea, everyone has a name," replied the kitsune, "My name is Shippo, and this is Kaede-baba. You have to have a name!"
Kagome was hesitant. Think of a name! She brainstormed and said the first thing that popped into her head, "Kikyo, my name is Kikyo." Yes Kikyo was the name of a miko whom Midoriko had spoken to her about. She was very powerful and said to have the power to control nature.
"Alright, Kikyo," Kaede continued. "What exactly are you doing in these parts?"
Kagome responded quickly, "I, um, ran away from home. My family arranged for me to marry, but I have no desire to. I am traveling to Musashi to find work."
Kaede frowned, "Ye are from a noble family?"
"Somewhat," responded Kagome. She was getting nervous. "Really no one of great importance," she added.
"Hmm," Kaede hummed. "Why should a privileged girl wish to lead the life of a commoner?"
Kagome grew worried, "I cannot go back now. I have to get to Musashi! Please, can you help me? At least, point me in the right direction?"
"Musashi is a three week journey from here," replied Kaede. "Shippo makes the trip once in a while on market day. You can travel with him in a week if you like. But, ye must first recover, if you are going to be of any use to anybody."
The old woman turned her back to Kagome and bent over the fire, filling a bowl with the delicious smelling stew from earlier.
Kagome drew in a sharp breath. Musashi was a three week journey? Just how far had she traveled in a week's time? She decided to shake the thoughts aside. The sooner she could get to Musashi the better.
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Kagome found her strength return to her just as quickly as it left. After several days rest and some filling meals, she was much better. Kaede had bandaged and placed poultices on her left wrist and the other various cuts and bruises she had obtained. They were healing nicely now, and Kagome found she almost had full range of motion back in her hand. Thank goodness it had only been a bad sprain.
She passed the time with Shippo, and helped him carry out his chores once she was strong enough. The little kitsune laughed at her inability to carry out even the simplest of tasks. It was all new to Kagome, but she accepted the work with earnest, eager to learn and be helpful in order to repay the kindness the old woman and youkai child had shown to her.
Her favorite task was taking care of the chickens inside the hen house. Kagome visited them as often as she could, clucking with them and talking to them in their own tongue. She enjoyed feeding them, and collecting the eggs they had to offer. One time, she and Shippo even managed to save them from a rather large rat. Thanks to her ability to understand their words, Kagome told Shippo where the rat was and the little kitsune blasted it with an unusual blue fire which came from his hands. Kagome was fascinated by the strange power, and Shippo puffed out his chest in delight as he carried the dead rat from the henhouse to proudly show Kaede-baba how he defended the poor, innocent chickens against the savage beast.
"It's called foxfire," explained Shippo when Kagome asked about the strange blue flame. "It's a power only fox youkai possess; that and the ability to create illusions."
"Illusions…you can do magic tricks too, Shippo-chan?"
The kitsune beamed proudly, "I'm getting really good at it. I can even transform. Watch this!" he said as he held his breath. A small puff of smoke filled the air, and Shippo was no longer a little kitsune, but a bright pink balloon. Kagome giggled in delight.
"That's wonderful!" laughed the girl. "I have never seen magic like that before!"
Shippo transformed back. He shook his head, "I'm still just a kid. It's not easy to do, but I think I know more than most people my age."
"How old are you?"
"Oh…about a hundred and ten I would imagine," he replied with some thought.
"A hundred and ten years old!" exclaimed Kagome. "You are far older than I am!"
"We youkai age differently," announced Shippo as he huffed out his chest with pride. "It's in our nature. I'm even older than Kaede-baba, but I'm still just a kid. I wouldn't stand a chance on my own out there in the real world!"
Kagome wondered at the age of the little kitsune. Was the world of youkai really so different? She was fascinated. So, demons did not age as fast physically. That would make sense since they were practically immortal. Midoriko once told her, some demons could live for thousands of years.
"I've never been around youkai before," Kagome explained. "All of this is so new to me."
"Don't worry, Kikyo, there are lots of humans who live in the youkai city. You should have no problems finding work. Not only that, but I will teach everything I know on the way there!"
Kagome giggled, "Thank you Shippo-chan that would be wonderful!"
That night, Kagome rested with Kaede before the fire. Shippo was already asleep, snoring lightly from his pallet across the room. They were leaving for Musashi at dawn and Kagome ha to admit she was anxious. She had never been on her own before, and throwing herself into a strange new city with a different culture was going to be a challenge to a princess who barely had stepped foot out of the palace.
"You seem troubled, child."
Kagome was aroused from her thoughts. She smiled slightly at the older woman, "Just anxious, Kaede-sama."
"Musashi is a rough place to live, especially for n unmarried woman who is not used to hard work."
"Who says I'm not used to hard work?" Kagome countered.
Kaede reached out and grabbed the young girl's hands. "These say you are not used to hard work," Kaede announced as she dropped them back into Kagome's lap. "Hands soft as a baby; you cannot even lift a pail of water without showing the strain on your face. I know you come from a somewhat privileged family, but even the nobles of the Forest are used to the ways of the world."
Kagome looked down at her hands with shame. She had been caught…
"I will not ask you any questions child," Kaede continued. "But, you must know you are not a very good liar, Kikyo, if I can even call you by that name."
"Of course you can, Kaede…" Kagome muttered miserably.
"I do not care to know about your past, child. Just know that to survive in this world, you must become stronger. I do not care to know your secrets, but others might. Protect yourself. Whatever past you are running from, should it come looking for you here, rest assured I have never met you before. I offer you this much, not only for yourself, but for Shippo and I as well."
Tears glistened in Kagome's eyes as she turned her gaze to the woman, "Thank you Kaede-baba. I will never forget your kindness."
Kaede sat back in her chair, "I will send Shippo to look after ye every once in a while, on a market day. And Kikyo…be strong."
Kagome smiled, "I'll do my best."
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They traveled by wagon, filled with various goods Kaede sought to sell at market day. There were blankets, cloaks, and shawls, the old woman had sewn, along with a number of herbal remedies and medicines. Shippo explained to Kagome that Kaede's mixtures were sought out by many, and thus it was their main source of income.
Three weeks passed by quickly. With Shippo as her guide and companion, Kagome felt at ease throughout the duration of their journey. The young kitsune explained to her the entire goings on of the city, and spoke with her about all of the various forms of youkai she might encounter. Per Kagome's request, by day, they traveled just away from the main road, far enough to remain hidden, but still close enough to keep them on track. At night, they set up camp. Kagome laughed as Shippo would perform some of his kitsune magic for her and in turn, she would tell the young youkai stories form her childhood which Midoriko had taught her.
But, despite her happiness, Kagome could not help but lose sleep at night. Every time she heard the wind rustle through the trees or an animal approach the light of their fire, she was on edge. Fear was a constant part of her life now, and it was something she would have to grow used to. Especially if she was walking into the city in which her enemies were. Brave little Shippo, had tried on several occasions, to put on a brave front for the girl when she woke up from one of her nightmares. He swore to protect her form any harm and assured her of her safety. But, there was nothing he could do to ease her mind or heart.
However, the day came when the approached Musashi and Kagome had to admit, she wished her journey with Shippo would have lasted a little while longer. Reaching Musashi meant she would be on her own, in the territory of her enemies. She would have no friends; no one to turn to. And when she saw the luminous city loom out before her, Kagome felt her heart stop within her chest. It was time.
Shippo guided her through the gates, which were open to travelers of all kind. It was market day, and the streets were filled with hundreds of people. Merchants were setting up their small stands to sell their goods: jewelry, trinkets, clothing, the finest silk, and much more. Farmers had brought out their crops to share with the rest of the world, in hopes of turning over a pretty penny to help them survive the impending winter. Kagome and Shippo were bombarded all at once with people throwing various items in their face: apples, chickens, and wool, anything that would fetch a price. Shippo simply ignored them all, pushing past the sellers to find a corner of his own where he could set up shop to sell Kaede's remedies.
After he was organized, Shippo turned to Kagome and gave her strict instructions,
"On market day, the King hears the pleas of the people. If you go stand in line and wait you turn, maybe you can ask him for some work. I hear he is a very fair and generous man!"
"But Shippo-chan, surely you need my help."
The young kitsune held up a hand to stop her, "Kikyo, you have to! Besides, even though I'm just a kid, I'm a master salesman. Don't worry about me. Now get going! The palace is just ahead. You can't miss it; there will be a line outside waiting to enter the throne room."
Kagome nodded, "I'll be back before the day is through."
Shippo gave her a quick nod before turning and jumping up on top of the wagon screaming at the top of his lungs, "Step right up folks! Medicine and remedies for all to get you through the winter! Fair prices, I tell you! Everything is negotiable! You there, little lady, you look like you could use some…"
Kagome smiled as she pulled a shawl out of the wagon and threw it over her head, covering much of her face. She did not want anyone to see her, especially Bankotsu or his men. They could be lurking around any corner.
She hurried through the throngs of people. It was difficult not to become distracted. There were youkai overflowing in the streets, and for a young princess who had never seen one before, it was quite fascinating. They looked strong and powerful and possessed grace Kagome had never witnessed before. When they walked, they glided on top of the ground. The simplest of gestures seemed like an elegant dance. And it occurred to her that they were all well dressed, appearing to be of a noble class society, or higher.
Pulling the shawl more tightly over her face, Kagome hurried onward. She could see the palace gates just ahead, with a line forming outside, just as Shippo had said. She slowed her pace and stopped at the back of the line, taking her place amongst what looked like a number of peasants, all of them human.
As she waited, anxiety was beginning to take its toll. What was she going to tell the King? Should she tell him the truth and expose those who tried to kill her? Dare she believe it would work? Would a King believe a young woman who looked like nothing more than a common girl? Not only that, but Kagome didn't even know Nazuna's whereabouts or what she and Bankotsu could have planned. She would have to keep her guard up.
As the line moved slowly, Kagome pulled the shawl even more tightly around her face. She was now within the palace grounds and was beginning to take in her surroundings. Currently she was in the courtyard leading into the main entryway. It was a busy place, full of servants running frantically from place to place, running their errands for the day. Soldiers were training and running drills in a small arena off to Kagome's left. She noted the number of guards, all youkai, hugging the line she was standing in; assuring no one went anywhere they were not allowed. They were intimidating looking with sharp armor that glistened in the sun. Most of them had long hair that flowed down to the middle of their backs, which possessed certain sheen; Kagome could quite put her finger on. Their ears, she noted, were slightly pointed, making some of them look like the elves Midoriko had once described in a bed time story. Their faces were stern and betrayed no thought or emotion that might have been echoing in their mind at the moment. She was fascinated.
The building itself was made of stone, carefully crafted by only the best youkai masons. Each gray stone possessed a beauty Kagome had never witnessed before and she as fascinated by it unique quality. The windows were all constructed of a colorful stained glass. Each window seemed to portray a different scene from a battle of some sort. Judging from her surroundings, Kagome could only guess the youkai took pride in their military. It was so different from Koudo, the tiny little kingdom known only for its extensive trading efforts. Koudo had not seen a war in many years, and Queen Hirgurashi depended on allies should a war ever occur. Now Kagome could see why her mother felt aligning with Musashi was so valuable. With the youkai kingdom's power and strength, a tiny kingdom like Koudo would not have to fear for survival.
"Next," said a grumpy voice.
Kagome jumped, she hadn't realized it was her turn. A guard stood by her side and motioned for her to follow him through the wide, oak double doors and enter the throne room. She acquiesced and careful not to keep the youkai waiting, followed the demon into the castle. Her heart was beating a mile a minute. She had to talk to convince the King about whom she was. She just had to. Now was her chance.
As she entered the throne room, she noticed the number of marble statues lining the walls. There were figures of both male and female figures alike. Kagome guessed they must have been important youkai in Musashi's history. She also noticed how the stained glass windows cast a magnificent light on each statue, illuminating each one with a splash of color.
Looking ahead of her, Kagome could see a tall figure, sitting on the throne. It was the King. Kagome gasped. He was magnificent…yes that was the only word to describe him. He was dressed for battle, in the most intimidating and beautiful set of armor Kagome had even seen. His skin was golden; accentuating his white hair which he had pulled pack tightly behind his head to keep it off his neck. His eyes were the color of gold, stern and foreboding. Kagome could almost feel the aura of power which flowed from his being. He was a god among youkai, commanding respect and obedience. And when Kagome was told to kneel before him so that he would hear her plea for help, the young woman was so flabbergasted she began to shake. Summoning up as much grace as she could muster, Kagome knelt and bowed her head, careful to keep her eyes to the ground.
"The Inu no Taisho will hear you speak," said the guard who had escorted her in.
Kagome gulped. Now was her chance. Slowly she rose to her feet and looked at the King seated before her. She would tell the King of her plight and ask for his mercy and help. She hoped he would be understanding and not think she was crazy. So, she opened her mouth to speak. It was then she saw Bankotsu out of the corner of her eye.
He was standing off to the side of the room, engaged in conversation with Jakotsu and Mukotsu. They did not appear to notice her, but the young princess completely lost her resolve. What were they doing in the palace? And more importantly, should she plead her case with the king, they would surely jump to their own defense. And what was her word compared to six others?
"Well?" inquired a deep voice.
Kagome nearly jumped at the sound of the King's voice. It was rich with authority, intimidating and powerful. Shyly she looked up to gaze at his face, and instantly lost all of her resolve. She started shaking. No words would come to her. Why oh why did she not have the gift of people speaking? It sure would come in handy right then.
"I…I…" she stumbled over the words. She looked around the room. She was beginning to draw attention to herself. What if Bankotsu looked over and saw her? She had to think, just come out and say it! Tell the King who you really are!
"What is your name child?"
Kagome was taken aback by the question. She again met the King's eyes. It startled her to see a hint of kindness glowing in their amber depths. Fascinated by the youkai, she didn't realize he was waiting for her answer.
"Your name, do you have one?" repeated the powerful demon.
She jumped and cursed inwardly for her foolishness, "Ka…Kikyo," she mumbled.
"Kikyo, what plea do you wish for Inu no Taisho to hear?"
"I…I…am new to the city," Kagome stuttered. "I m looking for work…your Majesty," she added. Carefully she peeked over at Bankotsu and the others. They were still engaged in conversation, good.
"What prior experiences do have you?"
Experience? The only experience with work Kagome had ever had was learning to be a princess, which involved studying all forms of etiquette and learning how to find a suitable husband. When she had free time, she spent it with Chijin running around the countryside and in the stables. That's it!
"I have some experience with horses, you Majesty, perhaps as a stable hand?" Yes, thought Kagome, perhaps he would give her a job in the stables. Then maybe she could find her beloved horse and escape from this horrible place, back to Koudo. Then she would tell her mother everything that had befallen her and with the Queen's word as evidence, Kagome could finally seek justice! She held her breath.
The Inu no Taisho frowned, "We have no need for a stable hand at the moment, besides it is hardly a suitable position for a young lady, such as you. However…" he quickly gave a nod to a youkai standing off to his right side. The King whispered into the youkai's ear. The youkai nodded and whispered back to the King, who shook his head in agreement. He turned back to Kagome, "One of my counselors has just informed me we are in need of a goose girl to tend to assists the goose boy with his gaggle of fifty. You shall also be given the liberty to stay in the servant's quarters. You shall be escorted there now. Next!" called the King.
Kagome's eyes grew wide. She knew absolutely nothing about raising geese! What was she going to do? She was about to open her mouth to protest the hasty decision, but abruptly stopped when she saw Nazuna walk into the room, wearing one of her dresses. It was one of the new ones Queen Hirgurashi had designed specifically for Kagome's dowry, and one of her personal favorites. The gown was spun of the finest emerald silk and trimmed in gold. It draped over the hip and flared out as it cascaded down towards the floor. Kagome's jaw nearly dropped. Nazuna was in the palace wearing her clothes! The young woman walked gracefully with her head held high, the very picture of elegance. The guard cleared his throat and made an announcement,
"Kagome-hime of Koudo wishes to speak with the Inu no Taisho!"
Kagome gasped and ducked down into the lowest bow she could muster. She mumbled thanks to the king for his mercy, and then waited as a guard came to escort her out of the room. Keeping her head bowed, Kagome followed the guard through the throne room, but instead of returning back outside, they wound their way through a series of corridors and hallways, through a large bustling kitchen and out a door used as a servant's entrance to the castle.
Kagome hardly had any time to think about her new surroundings. Nazuna was wearing her dress and using her identity! So that was it! Nazuna planned to murder her guards and take her place as princess of Koudo. And because of the long traveling distance between the two capitals, no one would ever know about the switch! Very little communication had ever been done by either country in the past. And it suddenly occurred to Kagome that Queen Hirgurashi, her mother, must have taken several years to carefully plan her marriage to Musashi's crown prince. If Nazuna wed the prince, then everything would be lost. She was stealing Kagome's life. But how could Kagome warn the king without being killed first by Bankotsu and his band of misfits?
"Hurry up goose girl!" cried the guard.
"Sorry," Kagome muttered. She turned her attention back towards where the guard and followed him obediently towards what looked like a series of livestock pens and barns, and a series of tiny little huts. Her tour guide led her to the largest of the huts, and threw back the door, signaling for Kagome to follow him. Kagome reluctantly acquiesced and entered the building to find what looked like a small dining hall, with a number of wooden tables and benches. The floor was made entirely of dirt, the walls were thatched and white washed much like Kaede's tiny little home. There was stone fireplace at the opposite end of the room, with a couple of chairs placed in front of it. A woman glanced up at their arrival.
"Oi, Mei I got a new one for you," said kagome's tour guide.
The woman, Mei, came to stand in front of the duo. Carefully, she examined Kagome's body with her eyes, scanning up and down. "She doesn't even look like she could pluck a chicken," stated the woman.
The guard sighed, "I'm only following orders. She's the new goose girl. I've jut come to hand her off to you. I've got to get back."
Mei simply nodded as the guard turned and walked out the door. Kagome glanced at the woman carefully. She seemed nice enough at first glance: an ordinary human like herself, brown eyes and brown hair covered with a white cap. She looked slightly rough for the wear; a result of countless years of labor as a servant. "What's your name girl?" Mei asked somewhat gruffly.
"Kikyo," Kagome managed to mutter quietly.
"Well Kikyo, my name is Mei; I cook for the livestock keepers, which you are now a part of. You are in charge of taking care of the King's geese, a humble but respectable position for a young lady such as yourself. Breakfast will be served promptly every morning at six, dinner at six. This is our common hall where everyone eats and socializes. You are welcome to come here anytime, day or night. During the day you will be working under Kohaku, our goose boy. He will show you everything tomorrow. But for now," she said as she motioned for Kagome to follow her out the door. "For now," continued Mei, "I will show you around. The livestock pens are over there," she said as she pointed to the right, "The pastures are scattered on all outskirts of the city. The geese are usually taken to the western pasture, on the other side of the city. There is a pond there. Over here," continued Mei as she pointed to the left, "is where we sleep. Each of us gets a little hut of our own. It's not much, but it's enough to get by. I'll show you yours now."
Kagome nodded and followed Mei to a tiny little shack with a thatched roof. She observed the small building. It looked like a big gust of wind could easily blow it away. But Kagome pushed this thought aside and allowed Mei to show her in so that she might observe her new home. It was a nothing more than a small room, with a cot, small bedside table, and a wash basin which sat on the table. Just above it was a tiny mirror hanging on the wall. On the wall opposite, Kagome noticed a tiny hook to hang clothes. The ceiling was just tall enough for an average man to stand up in, and just enough room to turn around. It was a gloomy confining space, but Kagome was grateful for the privacy and the roof over her head.
"Thank you very much, Mei-san, I am very grateful," Kagome said quietly.
Mei merely nodded, "You start tomorrow morning…remember breakfast at six. You may come to dinner tonight if you wish…six as well." Mei paused for a moment staring at her thoughtfully. The older woman studied Kagome's face, "You have striking blue eyes. I have never seen anyone in Musashi with such eyes before. Where do you come from?"
Kagome tried not to hesitate, "I come from the Dark Forest."
"Hmmm," said Mei thoughtfully, "what is a young girl like you doing so far from home?"
"My family needs the money to survive the upcoming winter. I had no choice," Kagome answered quickly.
"What a shame," said Mei as she sighed, "too many of our girls come here hoping to find work in this city full of youkai. Be careful Kikyo. Stay away from the youkai males. We humans are not as welcome as you think. Musashi is not as glorious as some would make it out to be."
Kagome nodded and couldn't help the shiver that ran down her spine. Mei turned to go. "Oh!" exclaimed Kagome. "I meant to ask you Mei-san: which building is for the royal stable?"
Mei turned and looked back at Kagome curiously, "The stables are clear on the other side of the palace, next to the soldiers' barracks. But stay away from them. It is not safe for a human girl to go there alone, nor are we permitted because of our rank. Silly girl," muttered the cook as she left.
Kagome cursed inwardly when she was finally left alone. All she really wanted to do was plop down on the tiny bed assigned to her and sleep. But she had other things to do first. As quickly as she could, Kagome found her way back through the city to find Shippo. The little kitsune was still in sell mode, but stopped upon her arrival.
"Shippo-chan, I found work as a goose girl to the King!"
"That's great Kikyo!" he replied as he hopped up into her arms. "But do you know anything about taking care of geese?"
"It can't be that bad," Kagome replied. "Besides I am going to learn from the goose boy. I am helping him."
"I'm glad you have a place to stay. Wait here!" said the kitsune. He scurried out of her arms and dove into the wagon. After rummaging around for a few seconds, he produced a blue cloak and tossed it to Kagome. "That's from Kaede-baba. She said you would need it to keep warm. I'll be back in a couple of months to check up on you."
"Thank you Shippo-chan, and thank Kaede-baba as well. I will miss you both very much. Be careful on your journey home."
"You don't have to worry about me," said Shippo as he stuck out his chest. "I'm a kitsune. I can look out for myself."
Kagome laughed, "Alright, bye Shippo-chan, be good."
"Bye Kikyo and good luck!"
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Later that night, Kagome lay on her cot. She had opted out of dinner, hoping to get to bed early so that she was ready for the busy day ahead of her tomorrow. She had so many things running through her mind. First things first though, she had to keep up her façade as the goose girl, even if it meant staying dangerously close to the palace. She would find a way to Chijin, and together, they would escape back to Koudo to warn her mother of Nazuna's treachery. That is…if she didn't get killed first.
AN: Sorry it took so long to update. I hope you are enjoying it so far. And I thin next chapter we will be seeing a certain white haired hanyou. I know you can't wait for that first encounter. Remember to review!! Email: