She knew it was time.
She had known one day this would happen. The memories to flow through her mind like silk over the soft skin but at the same time, to slowly move over her flesh until it was raw and throbbing in pain. She had always thought it would take her many centuries to finally come back and see what she what she had forgotten in the mist of her mind, still clouded by the drug she had taken for two centuries. She knew she remembered a lot, but she knew there were things she had forgotten. No matter how she reached toward the memories, they slipped through her fingers like the mist wanting to be caught but untouchable. She was unsure what she would feel upon looking on what she had forgotten making her shiver in fear but also in grim anticipation. What would wait her in the scrolls hidden away; knowing what had happened written permanently into them like a never-ending memory. Yet, she knew was strong again. The time of her solitude had taught her to be strong in times of weakness and kept her tough through all the hardships she'd endured. Meeting Rin had taught her once again about her great compassion and bright spirit. Her new friends had shown her unity was one of the greatest strengths and how to have faith and trust in each other. Lord Sesshomaru had taught her to stand her ground no matter the situation and to protect who you love with pride and love. She had become herself again after two centuries of darkening fire.
Hoshi inhaled deeply as those thoughts went through her head. It took a lot of effort to allow her muscles to relax once the air had escaped her lungs. Without anyone, she would still be aimlessly wandering with a weak will and drugged mind. She shivered at that thought. It frightened her to think that may have become the next few centuries of her life. Yet, the moment she had met Rin it had altered the course of path she walked on.
During her time with the Inu No Taisho, it had taught her a lot of things and altered what she was today. He had been her strength. He had been the reason she kept on living on and protected her when she was weak. He had raised her up to the sky when she couldn't fly on her broken wings. It was the Inu No Taisho's hand that had guided her through it all. He hadn't just been her protector and best friend, her only companion; he had been the Father-figure she had needed. The demon that had raised her from her young years and taught her all she had ever known. He had cared for her like no one had before and loved her like his own. He had been her comfort when she had cried, her punching-bag when she was angry, and her best friend when she needed to talk. He had been her teacher when she was curious. He had been utterly everything to her. She had depended so much on him and he equally had felt the same. She had been a major part of someone to protect, his pride and joy with her outstanding character, and the comfort through his own hardships. She had been raised by his own hand without outside interference and the demoness she had become was the greatest thing he could have ever asked for. When he had died, she had felt like a huge hole had been punched through her chest and her heart had been endlessly bleeding, dripping with the blood of her soul. He had been the center of her universe and the moment she had seen him die, she had felt like everything was over. She had wanted to die with him, following him into the Afterlife. Yet, he had made her swear to live on as his last wish. It had been the only thing he had wanted from her. Keep his legacy alive within her, just like Sesshomaru was and Inuyasha would.
She ran her hand through her hair slowly, feeling the silky strands glide through her fingers. She felt the pain beating in her chest but no tears appeared on her cheeks nor did she fall upon the ground in utter agony like she had in the past. She knew she would always miss him and mourn his death, but never again would she have to run away from him, his memories. It was these thoughts that beckoned her to finally approach her bag and slide her hand within its depths, finding the thin but long wooden box easily. She took a deep breath and slid it out. The wood gleamed with polish, not even tarnished with 2 centuries of neglect. She ran her talons over the smooth surface. She hadn't shown this to anyone, not even Rin or Sesshomaru. It had been personal to her since the day it had been given to her as a gift. Inu No Taisho had noted when she had tried to stuff her organize her things in the bag of her belongings and returned with this very box to her to stash her things in, keeping them in order. She had been so grateful and given him a fierce hug, remembering the warming and strong arms wrapping around her slim form. She missed his arms, so gentle and powerful at the same time whenever she was enfolded in their embrace with security, love, and warmth. She heavily sighed and opened the box, ignoring the trembling of her arms. There before her sat 7 slim scrolls with two smaller boxes at the top. She bit her lip, knowing what these things were.
Her memories of the Inu No Taisho.
Tears stung the back of her eyes but she didn't cry. She wouldn't back down now. The cot creaked quietly as she sat down; curling her legs underneath her into the most comfortable position she could manage. She grabbed the oldest one and with a trembling pair of hands, opened it. Her eyes fell upon her handwriting from over 5 centuries ago and with a hard swallow, began to read. It was time.
Today is the anniversary of my parent's death, over forty eight years ago. I woke up feeling quite sick at heart and it took me only a few seconds to figure it out. Eight years ago I had watched my Father fight his last battle and upon his death, left me alone. I cannot help but feel crushed and confused. Why didn't he run with me? He could have just run with me and be at my side today. I don't know what my Father was thinking. I cannot help but feel heartbroken at that thought. I know what they died to save me but I wonder if they really considered the fact I would be alone without them. All of this though isn't the real reason I'm writing this today.
Inu No Taisho taught me a great lesson today. When he noticed my behavior, he asked me what was wrong but I just grumbled at him, completely depressed. I told him I didn't want to talk about it. He frowned at me. He didn't say much else to me after that but I didn't care at the moment. I just felt alone and misunderstood. My mind tried to remind me of a few years prior to when he took me to the cliffs to view the stars and talked to me about it, even told me some personal things I know he rarely shared but I ignored it. I just wanted to mourn and be depressed over what happened. I wandered away from him, thinking it was better if I left him alone. I didn't want him to see me like this. He surprised me though, because he followed me and told me something I will never forget. I'm going to write it here to make sure I don't ever forget.
"Hoshiko, I know you are sick at heart and depressed by what passed many years ago. Instead of mulling over what happened, why don't you think of what you have gained by what they gave up for you?"
He left me alone after that. I really considered what he said to me. They have given up their lives to protect me, the cursed half-breed that ends up with my harsh lifestyle and no friends or family. It finally clicked though; they had died protecting me out of love for me. They never cared I was a half-breed; they loved me anyways to the point they would die for me and wanted what was best for me. I felt crushed I had been insulting my parents. But I felt like there was a second meaning to what he said to me. It took me longer to figure it out when I finally realized, what about him? He had given me his protection and his compassion. He had been there for me when I needed him. I felt the sickening feeling in my chest grow deeper. He had reached out to me and I had shoved him away, rejecting his compassion and comfort. I felt like I would throw up. It made me recall what I had thought a few years prior: Despite the pain, I should let him aid me in what tortured me. He was my friend, my protector. He had been my savior that day seven years ago. Yet, even after I had known he'd aid me in the passing of my parents, I continued to push him away every year. I felt sick at heart now. I knew what I had to do.
I went to find him. It wasn't hard to locate him, seeing he wasn't too far away from me to make sure I was safe. It was hard, but I told him what I was thinking and what I had realized. He had listened quietly with a neutral expression. I had no idea what he was thinking. When I was finished, he finally gave me a gentle smile and nodded once. I could sense how proud of me he was and the happiness he felt knowing I would finally understand one day he was always there for me. I knew he cared for me; it just never fully set in until now. I swore upon my blood I would never push him away again, knowing this was the way it should be. Later that night, he said something else to me I can't forget either.
"If everyone else knew sweet little you, they still would never know the pain you hide."
I know he meant my bright personality and the agony I hide behind my smile and laughter. It makes me wonder though, who is more proud of me? Him or my parents?
She swallowed hard, but not out of pain. She had completely forgotten about this. She recalled everything now, from what she had written and even the parts she had left out of her writing. She had written this by the fire, sitting not a foot away from Inu No Taisho, his eyes curiously gazing at what she had written but unable to see exactly what. She had allowed him to read it afterward. His eyes had said it all. She rolled up more of the scroll and inhaled sharply at the next piece of content. It was a sketch of Inu No Taisho. It had been drawn a few days later when he had been standing by a tree, gazing at her. It was the perfect replica of the moment. She had to smile softly at the picture. She had expected great pain to remember now but instead, she felt peace and joy. Her eyes slid downward more to the next piece of writing.
I had never had a more frustrating day than today, but at the same time it was amazing. I had really hurt my leg a few days ago when a snake demon caught me unawares and tore open my right thigh with a single bite. I had fallen to the ground from the impact but I was glad I had my dagger with me because all it took was a stab in the eye into its skull to kill it. When I examined my wound, it was worse than I had thought. The snakes fangs had torn deep into my thigh and a gash had been torn into an important stretching muscle. I tried to hide it from Inu No Taisho. I knew he had a very important duty to attend in a few days' time and I didn't want to slow us down because of me being completely foolish by not checking the area around me with my aura. I quickly washed up the blood and wound, bandaging up the damage quickly. I had to rub the herb that hid scents all over me but I hadn't realized even this wouldn't fool him. Inu No Taisho had given me an odd look when he got whiff of the herb instead of my scent but didn't comment on it when I told him I had sensed a great company of demons nearby and wanted to remain undetected, despite the fact he could extend his own aura and hide both of us. I tried to hide my limping and quiet whimpers with each step but he swiftly caught on. The next thing I knew, he'd yanked my kimono up and found the bandage and the spot of blood. He glared at me, displeased with my actions. He tended to the wound himself, putting the muscle correctly back together, and forced us to make camp that night even though I said I could keep going. He had told me I had to rest until it healed enough for me to walk on. I had never felt sorrier, because he had seemed disappointed and angry all at once. I will never hide my wounds from him anymore.
Back to today, I was trying to pick a fruit off a tree but I couldn't reach. No matter how hard I tried to jump up and get it, my wounded leg was so bad I barely could get a foot off the ground. I couldn't climb the tree either, simply because I was told not to by Inu No Taisho not to climb until the wound healed. I was getting so frustrated. The peach gleamed in the sun as though mocking me. I jumped up a few more times but nothing I did would get me any higher. I wanted to cry, I was so hungry. I tried again but to my great surprise, I felt two large hands grab my waist just as I jumped up, lifting me up to where I could grab the peach. I looked down to find Inu No Taisho, holding me up. I had to grin greatly and once I got my prize, he lowered me down carefully. I gave him the biggest smile I could and it taught me a lesson today too. He would pick me up, whenever I needed the help.
She felt a happy tear prickle the back of her eyes. She remembered Inu No Taisho picking her up just so she could get the peach and that made her smile warmly. She rolled up the scroll and placed it back into its case, deciding to read the rest later. She went to pick up the second to last one when her blue eyes slid to the last one, the scroll she had written only a few years before Father's death. She bit her lip before slowly picking up the last one. She unrolled it, her breath faint. Her eyes locked onto the first passage.
Izayoi truly is a remarkable human girl. I had known she was different from the beginning when we met her a few years prior but today, something stood out to me today. I was going to visit her for the day since Father was leaving for some time, leaving me here with the human. When I entered her quarters, I found that she was nowhere in sight. She had never been absent when I came to see her. Worried, I carefully tracked her down while keeping out of sight of the palace guards and workers until I found her in her garden, kneeling over a flower bed. I sensed worry from her form. When I approached her, she turned to look at me when big sad brown eyes. I was confused until I saw what she was doing. A wounded rabbit lay on the grass, breathing heavily with a bloody bandage wrapped around what looked like a broken leg. The rabbit looked at me completely frightened but when Izayoi gently stroked its side, it relaxed under her touch. She looked at me with a weak smile.
"I couldn't leave it to suffer," she whispered.
I was stunned by her words. She was helping a wounded creature and she couldn't bear to leave its side just to greet me. She truly is a unique human.
Hoshi remembered the wounded rabbit. Izayoi had cared for it until the day she released it back into the wild, completely healthy once more from the humans care. Hoshi had known about the woman's loving and caring nature, but it had certainly stood out to her in that situation. She missed the human woman, who had become a mother figure to her in the last years they had been together. She sighed sadly. The image of the human woman was so clear in her head it was like she had only seen her hours ago. She remembered Izayoi, with her long silky black hair that hung to the floor and her chocolate brown eyes that endlessly sparkled with kindness. The human woman hadn't smiled often but when she did, it was beautiful on her face. Izayoi had been more of the quiet, but compassionate type of being. Her heart had been endlessly filled with love, kindness, and loyalty. Yet, the flame which drew Inu No Taisho to her was her innocence. Just like Hoshiko before her. She pressed her fingers to her forehead, crinkled up in thought and sorrow. Oh, she missed the human woman so dearly, perhaps as much as Inu No Taisho. Her lips tightened lightly. She glanced down at the next content of the scroll.
I have felt the true meaning of family today. I had always considered myself and Inu No Taisho part of a family, even though we aren't linked by blood. After all, I call him Father and he calls me his daughter, the daughter of his heart. We have been together for many years now. Now, I see a whole form of a family. Izayoi had joined us at the moons highest point of the sky. We were gathered around a campfire feasting upon rabbit meat I had prepared and engaging in conversation, laughing together. My cheeks hurt so much from smiling for hours. Inu No Taisho is not open often with others beyond myself but he is with this human woman. The gifts of life have shined brightly tonight. I hope to have this forever, a family. When I stared at the stars while I wrote this, they seemed to glow with a whole meaning though smiling upon me for making a hidden discovery. A family is not unions forged by blood, but out of unions by love.
Hoshi blinked. It still surprised her in a way to consider how wise she was in her younger years. All the people in her life jumped into her mind. Rin, her beloved pup. They didn't share blood yet it truly felt like Rin was hers, her daughter. The human girl had saved her in more ways in one and gave her a reason to live on, blessing her with the future. Kagome and Sango, the humans she felt like were sisters. She laughed and talked with them, ready to fight at their sides. Miroku, the perverted monk who was always kind and happy to help her if she needed it. Shippo and Kaede, were always happy to have a conversation. Sakura and Minoru, two demons ready to jump to her defense when she needed and assisting her in any way they possibly could manage a pair of loyal friends. Sesshomaru, the Lord of the West, her companion, and her lover. He was always protecting her and listening to her, guiding her through the hard times. He cared for her, showing it through his actions and hidden messages in his words and eyes. She understood him and he equally understood her. The people in her past were equally impacting and some still lived today. Her mother, Kasumi the great general, taught her to be gentle and loving and her father, Daiki the sea serpent Lord, taught her how to live and how to be compassionate. Inu No Taisho, her guardian, taught her how to be strong and how to fight. He protected her from harm and gently helped her when she was down. He cared for her. He had been her past reason to live, the Father she had needed to teach her loyalty and the lessons of life. Inu No Taisho had been her angel and his mate, Izayoi, had taught her to look past the face and understand the person underneath. She had judged the human woman and later learned she was wrong, making a friend in the process. This had made her learn acceptance on a whole new level. All these individuals had given her so much. They had altered her from the shallow, violent child she was originally. She could hardly imagine herself as that child she once was. If she hadn't met Inu No Taisho, what would have happened to her future? She shuddered at the thought. The idea she would have become a violent, cruel monster was a great possibility. Would she have become a heartless demoness?
She bit her lip. Heartless? No care in the world for others? Slaughtering without remorse or pain? She wished she could feel nothing when she killed but when she looked into their dying eyes knowing she had been their last battle and their murderer, it wrenched a heartstring. She despised killing with all her heart, to see blood dripping from claw, fang, and metal. She wanted to be free from the slaughtering. She couldn't help but feel sad at each body she gazed on. She sighed heavily, her eyes gazing upward at the ceiling. Her finger gently brushed against her silver earring in her ear in thought. She listened to Sakura's humming in the next room over and Jaken's low mumbling, An-Un chewing his food nosily. The guards whispered nearby and servants scurried about. The sounds of this place were truly odd to her in some ways. She was used to the wind and the plants swaying in the breeze, animals grazing and birds singing. The sounds of blades whistling and the blood splattering onto the ground. She glanced down at the scroll again and inhaled slowly, her hands slowly tightening around the rough edges of the paper. Inu No Taisho, his eyes closed as he embraced his human mate, Izayoi. They looked so content in this sketch. She had drawn the background of trees in, the wind blowing their hair gently around them. She remembered this moment, sitting in the clearing and watching them embrace each other for a moment but long enough for her to sketch out the outline and go by memory afterward. The gentleness the demon lord had exchanged with Izayoi was precious in a way. She still had a hard time believing this powerful and fierce demon lord had been the one to give so much kindness and compassion when alone with the people he trusted. Hoshi doubted even Myoga had seen this side of the Inu No Taisho. Her ears caught the sound of a door sliding open and the change of auras in the main room, catching her attention.
"Minoru," Sakura whispered in horror, her footsteps so soft Hoshi barely heard them in their rapid intensity. "What on earth happened?"
"I was not careful to regard my own safety, but I am well."
"I doubt that, you look so sickly."
"I'm tired from a long duty. I simply wish to rest."
"At least tell me what happened to you? You look as though you were in a battle zone, my friend."
"Panther demons decided to make an attack on the Eagle demon captain and attempt to kill him. We assume their reasons are for a lower level of preparedness and scatter our warriors. Luckily, I was in his group on the patrol when I caught sight of the assassin and was able to quickly disarm him. But his companion was able to wound me."
"You are injured," Sakura's voice rose shrilly.
"I'm fine," Minoru replied quickly, catching on to the panicked tone. "It is a mere scratch."
"If it is a mere scratch, then why are you so hesitant to talk about it?"
There was a momentary silence in response. She heard the Eagle demon sigh before hearing a few grumbles follow afterward, not sure if it was muttering or actual mumbling. She bit her lip gently.
"Allow me to see it?"
"I cannot. Do not worry about it, Sakura. I am simply on a break so I am well enough to remain on guard."
"Foolishness. If you do not let me examine it, I will not let you leave and I will tie you down if it comes to that. You know I can do that," Sakura replied coldly.
"Sakura," Minoru groaned, annoyed now. But for some reason, Hoshi swore she heard pain in his voice.
"Minoru," Sakura spat in warning.
Hoshi didn't want to eavesdrop on them but the situation seemed important to her so she continued to remain was quiet as possible. For some reason, her companions seemed to note this for their voices purposely lowered so she did not catch any more of their conversation. She frowned. Were they trying to remain quiet to avoid her attention? Well, it was all for naught, for her senses were so honed to auras it was completely worthless to try? Carefully, she sent a flare of her aura toward the main room and blinked at the weaker aura from the Eagle demon and the nervous one from her retainer. She decided if they needed her, they would have called for her. It must not be as serious as she made it out to be. After all, Sakura was a healer and would have the ability to attend to the wound Minoru must have. She glanced down at the scroll again. It wasn't moments later that Minoru made a loud hiss in pain.
"Oh heaven's mercy," Sakura whispered, her voice tone shocked, scared, and horror struck.
"What?"
"This is worse than what you said, Minoru," she said lowly.
Minoru's weak aura turned nervous, bringing vibes to Hoshi that made her wonder what in the world was going on. Was the wound more serious than she originally thought or beyond it? Yet, she did not want to intrude on them if Sakura could handle it. She heard a few more low murmurs she did not catch and quiet movements. Her talon scratched a line into her hand.
"I will need you to hold still, my friend."
"I will do my best."
There was a momentary silence, but Hoshi immediately heard the groan of pain and Sakura's low whimpers of "sorry, sorry." She began to get worried for her friend, her protector. She put down the scroll, putting all her energy to listening to what was going on. Her lip began to hurt from how hard she was biting it.
"Are you alright," Sakura whimpered, sounding upset.
"Nothing I can't handle. Just keep doing what you are doing."
"I don't think this is right," the phoenix demoness muttered, but not low enough to not catch Hoshi's attention.
"May I ask what you mean," Jaken spoke up, voice tone annoyed.
"Oh, it's nothing Jaken. I can handle this."
"Do you even know what you are doing, Sakura? You are fumbling."
"Of course I do," Sakura answered strongly, but no one missed the waver in her voice.
Hoshi began to frown as the voices and auras grew more intense with fear and unsure vibes, making her uneasy. This was not right. Did her retainer have any clue of what she was doing? If not, it may harm Minoru more than help him. This could result badly, but Sakura would have called her if she needed help. But for some reason, something inside Hoshi warned her this was not so. Her worry grew for the Eagle demon. She slid her scrolls back into the box and hid it under her cot, hiding it within the shadows. She began to reach for her medical herb bag.
"I don't think so," Jaken scoffed. "Minoru appears to be getting worse. That doesn't seem to be helping him."
"I'm fine, it's helping," Minoru groaned out, pain overriding his voice.
"It's bubbling," the imp stated, voice flat.
"I can do this, please go away Jaken!"
"You should call Lady Hoshiko. He needs someone with a higher knowledge of wounds and healing."
"I'm a healer," Sakura spat, annoyed and worried all at once. "I can do this, I've read about it."
"Reading means nothing. The Lady will have experienced this before I will bet on my life, on herself or another, and she should come attend him more than you. I'm going to get her."
"Jaken!"
"That's it," Hoshi thought.
The hybrid demoness got to her feet and with her medical bag in hand, the situation clear in her mind now, and slid her door open to enter the hallway. Sakura was being a fool. She obviously did not know what she was doing and was harming Minoru more than aiding him. That was a prideful but bad thing to do. As she hurried down the hallway and the smells of incense hit her nose. Were they trying to hide a different smell? Usually it was burned to override another scent. She felt annoyance build up in her chest. Hoshi brushed aside the cloth to the main room and froze at the scene before her. This was worse than she had thought. Minoru was laying before the fire, his pant leg ripped open to reveal a gruesome cut from his inner upper thigh to the outer knee, dripping with blood and a violet liquid and the wound was purple around the edges. Poisoning. This had recently become a large thing to do within battle, lacing the blade with poisons. Sakura was bent over the injury and her bloody hands clutched at Jaken, her expression hesitant and unsure. Jaken was trying to pull away, eyes narrowed on her face. Minoru didn't even glance her way when she entered.
"Lady Hoshiko," Sakura gasped.
"My Lady," Jaken said, eyes locked on Hoshi now.
"What is the matter," Hoshi answered, ignoring the welcomes as she hurried over.
"How did you know," the imp asked.
"I overheard you all and quickly figured out what was going on. Do you think my senses are that low?"
Sakura bit her lip, looking down. Jaken looked amused despite the situation and swiftly walked to the fire, sitting before it with his arms wrapped around his precious Staff of Two Heads. Hoshi knelt down at her retainer's side. Sakura felt a finger under her chin and allowed her face to be lifted up, meeting the stern blue eyes of her mistress. Hoshi looked disappointed. Sakura felt shame rise up in her.
"What were you thinking," Hoshi said her voice oddly calm despite what lay before her.
"I thought I could do it on my own," Sakura whispered, sounding ashamed at her answer. "I wanted to help Minoru myself. I'm sorry."
"I wish I could say you were forgiven," Hoshi replied sadly, placing a hand on her servant's shoulder. "You were trying to help him but this action could result in him paying with his life. You may have been trying to help but sometimes, you can't. You may need the help. Next time, don't be hesitant to call me. Pride should never overrule your compassion for someone."
"I'm a fool."
"We are all fools sometimes, Sakura. You treat me as though I am perfect, but in reality I am not and I know it. You may be surprised at the stupid mistakes I have made, Sakura."
The phoenix demoness gazed at her mistress sorrowfully, unsure what she should do now. Her pride may have cost the demon she loved his life. She moved out of the way for her lady, wanting to cry. How foolish she was! Even Hoshi had say she couldn't be forgiven right now. Hoshi now turned her attention to Minoru, who was gazing at the ceiling with a pained expression as he chewed his lip, ignoring their conversation. She touched his cheek with her talons and his eyes drifted over to her. The hybrid demoness immediately noted the glazed look in his silver eyes. That was not a good sign.
"You fool," Hoshi said gently with a small smile. "You never should allow pride to overrule health." He gave a small chuckle at that with a grimace. "When did this happen?"
"A few hours ago," he whispered. "I had to give a report and finish the patrol."
Hoshi gave a small nod, her eyes locked on the injury. The wound was very large, running from his upper inner thigh to his outer knee, and the blood dripped down slowly with a darker red blood than normal with violet poison streaks. The edges of the wound were dark purple. It was a clean cut, but deep. She slowly ran a talon along the side and noted the tremble that ran through the Eagle demons body at the touch. It must be more painful than he was letting on. She quickly calculated the time the poison must have had to run through his system. Her fingers dipped into the fallen blood and she held it up to her face, examining it up close. Her nose inhaled the aroma of the blood. She winced. Sakura watched her actions carefully. Was this bad? Hoshi's eyes flickered with an unknown emotion before she quietly began to search her medical bag, completely silent. But no one could miss the vibes coming off Hoshi's aura. Sakura bit her lip nervously.
"Milady," Sakura quietly asked. "How bad is it?"
"The blade that cut Minoru was encased in Setyn poison; it is the kind that slowly kills by decreasing the heartbeat and drugs the brain. The fact this has been in his system for so long lowers his chances of living."
"What," Sakura all but almost screamed, leaping to her feet. Everyone ignored the crash signaling Jaken had crashed back into the wall knocking all the things onto his head. He cursed in the background.
"Calm yourself, Sakura," Hoshi said, not looking up from looking through her stuff enraging the phoenix demoness. Didn't her mistress care? "Oh, don't think that." How did her mistress know what she was thinking? "I have an antidote for it, I've experienced this poison before in my own system and Inu No Taisho once had this happen to him."
"The Inu No Taisho was poisoned with Setyn?"
"Ah, here it is."
Sakura had never felt more relieved to see Hoshi lift a vile from her bag. This would save the demon she loved, she hoped. She didn't want to doubt her lady but watching Minoru look so weak and his aura fading away frightened her deeply. She was glad in a way Hoshi knew much more than she did right now with all the injuries and poisons. It crushed her to know at the same time that it wasn't her helping Minoru. Hoshi lifted the weak Eagle demon's head into her lap and gave a gentle tug on his hair, gaining all the attention he had left. His glazed eyes locked with hers.
"I am going to need you to focus at the moment," Hoshi said, gently. "You need to drink this."
Minoru barely was able to nod. The hybrid demoness gently smiled at his attempt. At least he was responsive. Hoshi lifted the vile to his lips and slowly spilled the liquid into his mouth, stroking his throat to help him get it down. Sakura bit her lip at the struggle it was for her beloved to simply drink. That obviously revealed his weak and hurt state. Jaken approached and stared at the demon.
"How will that help him? The wound is below."
"It helps numb the wound, quicken the healing process, and it will give him energy he needs."
"You know so much," Sakura whispered, her eyes locked on her ladies work.
"I only have so much knowledge is by dark experience," Hoshi returned, her voice low and sad as she scooted down to the actual wound.
Sakura remained silent throughout the healing process. She only watched as Hoshi wiped the wound clean, wiped liquid over the cut, and sewed the wound shut. She couldn't imagine how odd it must feel for Minoru to have his muscle forged together, when in the past he was able to heal by only having it wrapped. His state was bad enough for this level. Hoshi never wavered from her work. Her eyes remained locked on her patient but no emotion flickered on her face, making Sakura wonder what she was thinking. The healer side of Hoshi was always quiet and focused. Her personality was so wavering. Loving and compassionate one moment, quiet and reserved the next, and then outraged and cruel the last. It was an endless dance that changes its tempo's.
"Sakura, will you hand me the small box in my medical bag," Hoshi said neutrally, tying the wound shut.
"Of course, milady."
Within moments the box was put into the hybrid lady's hand and she swiftly opened it, dipping her hand into the powder to pat it onto the wound. Sakura blinked. She had never seen that before. Hoshi must have noted her expression or the flare in her aura; her beautiful eyes glanced up into hers.
"That was simply to give nutrients to the skin," Hoshi said, smiling gently. "And for some fun. But that is all I can do for him, he must do the rest."
"Isn't that the duty of all the wounded," Minoru suddenly spoke up, his glazed eyes sliding over in their direction. "To be the true healer of all wounds? Yet, it always takes the aid of another to complete that mission."
"Hai, it is. I have done my part," Hoshi said, rising to her feet. "I hope you can complete your own."
"I have the feeling that I can, arigato to the healer who gave me the aid I needed."
The hybrid demoness gently nudged his foot in response, a friendly gesture, and headed over to the water bowl in the corner of the room to wash her hands. Sakura watched her for a moment before sliding over to her friend, gathering his hand in her own. It frightened her a bit when his hand hung limply in her grasp. He was so responsive all the time it was so different to see him so weak and in pain. Slowly, to her surprise, his hand gently returned a weak grasp before slacking again. She met his eyes, catching his gentle smile.
"You did the best you could," he said, tenderly. "I appreciate that you tried."
"Of course," she whispered, tears stinging her eyes. "I will always try."
"I would do the same for you, Sakura," Minoru whispered, smiling wider.
"I am glad to see you are talking," their lady suddenly spoke up, wandering over with many things in her arms with a smile. "That means you are recovering. Next time, you fool, don't hesitate to come to me when you are wounded. You never know what the results may be." Minoru nodded in response but Sakura's eyes were locked on the items her lady had. A bowl of vegetables, a slab of meat and cooking supplies? Hoshi caught her gaze. "I think it may be best if Minoru gets something into his system, as well as get dinner for the rest of us."
"Let me help," Sakura said.
Hoshi glanced at her, gently smiling before surrendering the platter of meat and a knife from her collection. In silence, the two demonesses chopped up the food into smaller pieces and prepared the broth in the large pot over the fire. Jaken slipped over to the Eagle demon. Minoru, out of it due to his injury, barely was able to look at the imp with an expression clearly asking what he wanted. Jaken sat down, his eyes locked on the fire and thinking of what he wanted to say.
"How long do you think until the Panther demons will strike again," Jaken asked.
"I do not think long," Minoru grumbled out, forcing himself to speak. "The attack today clearly signals the battle is not too far off."
"I will predict the attack will begin around the new moon," Hoshi spoke up, glancing at the two males. "It is darker during that time and thus, panther demons will able to sneak about in the darkness and it may give them greater ability to see than their enemies. No offense, Minoru."
"It is within nature for Cats to see well better than Eagles, but they do not have the strength we do within our claws."
"Indeed, that is true. But they scratch like little vermin's."
Minoru weakly laughed, but Hoshi sensed a flare of shame brush against hers, so faint she barely noticed it. Her eyes glanced over at the Eagle demon. His face was expressionless, but she immediately knew the reason for his effort to hide his emotions. He was probably ashamed he got injured in a brave act to protect an ally. A mental sigh ran through her frame. Pride was not easy to fix at times, especially if one took it to heart. Just like her companion was doing. Her hands quickly made nimble work of chopping the vegetables into pieces and using cooking herbs to season a sort of broth for the stew. Hoshi began to ponder what she could do to soothe the Eagle demon in more ways than one. She could be a faithful friend, but she doubted he would like to just open up and speak to her about something personal though she understood it completely. She bit her lip, in thought. She could simply talk to him about other things. That would probably be best. Or leave him alone. One of the two options.
"I wonder when Lord Sesshomaru will return," Jaken suddenly said.
"He went to speak to the Northern Lord Jaken," Sakura said, dryly. "Lord Sesshomaru will not return for some time."
"Why couldn't he have at least told me?"
"It is obvious where he goes," Minoru growled. "Where else would the lord go? His duty lies here."
Jaken glared at his injured ally but said nothing, keeping his little mouth shut. Hoshi rolled her eyes.
"Milady, I will return, I must retrieve An-Un from the garden before he eats everything," Sakura said gently, rising to her feet. "The meat is right there for you to add."
"Arigato, Sakura."
The phoenix demoness weakly smiled before retreating from the room, leaving the other three alone with each other. Hoshi prodded the fire with a stick quietly. That was when she glanced out of the corner of her eye to watch the imp rub the top of his head with a wounded expression. He had a few bumps, probably from the objects he had dumped on his head earlier, and hadn't said anything. She wiped her hand on her kimono and pulled out a thin vile. Jaken was surprised when the vile entered his field of vision, giving his lady a questioning look. She smiled gently.
"This will soothe the pain of those bumps and ensure it doesn't swell too much, but it won't help with a headache."
"Arigato," Jaken murmured, accepting the vile to swiftly open it and pat some of the thick herb medication onto his head. He most groaned a loud at the relief, the cool soothing sensation.
"How are you feeling, Minoru?"
"I am fine, but I should return to my duties shortly."
"Nonsense. I won't allow you to leave; you have poison in your system that must filter out before you can return to your duties. Moving around will do more harm than good. So if someone sends for you, I will dismiss them. You will remain here, Minoru, until I deem you well enough to go into battle once more."
"Milady, I am needed on wall guard duty," Minoru growled out, glancing at her.
"I apologize, Minoru, but I will not allow you to leave. Relax."
"If you don't obey the lady, I will not doubt she will tie you down and will have the ability to drug you or even torture you," Jaken stated, looking smug.
Hoshi narrowed her gaze on the imp.
"Who says I won't do the same to you as well," she said too sweetly, an evil glint in her eyes. Jaken gulped. Minoru had to chuckle to himself. Hoshi, one, Jaken, zero.
Hoshi returned her attention to feeding the fire and stirring the stew, adding the vegetables and then the meat. A sweet aroma filled the room, making the imp sigh in delight. He could not wait to sink his teeth into a carrot or potato. It would feel like heaven on his tongue. Minoru watched the food simmer with hunger in his eyes. Hoshi wanted to laugh at the expressions on their faces. It was though in their thoughts they were begging the food to cook faster to end up in their bellies, the aroma was heavenly even to her. Hoshi heard Sakura's and An-Un's entrance, one pair soft and the other heavy, and turned to welcome the two newcomers. Sakura looked delighted.
"That smells delicious," she stated, sitting down.
"If only it would cook faster," Jaken muttered so lowly Hoshi heard barely heard it, like a low whisper.
The hybrid demoness wanted to roll her eyes, but she simply smiled and pulled the bowls out to serve her companions. It was only moments before each member had a bowl of delicious rabbit meat stew, eating hungrily. Hoshi enjoyed the food that felt like heaven slipping down her throat; the meat was tender and the vegetables were perfectly cooked. She ate slower than the others to relish the meal she was having. She hadn't eaten much in the past little while. There was no reason for her to eat. In the past she had gone for weeks without a bite to eat and no sleep but sooner or later she needed to attend to those necessary duties. She was thankful for such a tolerant and strong body that had grown with time for the lifestyle she had taken on. Sesshomaru ate even less than her but she had noted he rested more often than she did. She wondered what her lover was doing. . . She sighed, in joy of the food or the longing to see her beloved she wasn't sure. Jaken glanced up.
"Is this rabbit meat," he questioned, prodding a piece of meat carefully.
"Hai, it is," Sakura answered happily. "It is my favorite."
"Stupid wench, I dislike rabbit meat greatly!"
"How was I supposed to know that," Sakura retorted before Hoshi could say something.
"I am a toad demon, not some carnivore that feasts on rabbits and squirrels."
"Oh I forgot," Minoru muttered, glancing at the imp with an annoyed look. "You prefer flies."
"How dare you! I am merely requesting consideration for others when one prepares a meal."
"Jaken, Sakura, Minoru," Hoshi snapped, all eyes locking on her. "Silence. Do not speak to each other in such a way."
"Milady," Sakura whispered, looking away.
Minoru and Jaken looked like they were about to retort a protest but with one glance at Hoshi's darker blue eyes immediately made them silence. Her mood swings were truly odd. One moment completely cheerful and the next, menacing. Hoshi put down her food bowl, wiping her mouth clean before looking at all of the servants.
"I know you do not get along well. You all seem to enjoy tormenting each other in different forms, especially you two males. Can you not for once attempt to get along? If that seems impossible, look at what you share. You are all here under the service of Lord Sesshomaru to defend the Western Lands from threat. Is that not enough to get you to treat each other with respect? I am sick of watching you all bicker like small pups."
"I apologize," Sakura whispered.
"My error, milady," Minoru answered quietly.
Jaken said nothing, but he gave a simple nod. The lady spoke sense.
Sakura was always amazing at her ladies behavior. She was the kindest demoness she had known but she truly had moments of seriousness that revealed knowledge farther than her years, showing great maturity and intelligence. She didn't act it at all sometimes. Who would have thought the demoness chasing her adoptive pup was a cruel murder who could slaughter with a swipe of her claws? The demoness who healed could poison and harm without flinching? The demoness who displayed so much compassion was like graceful ice on the battlefield? The goodness was like a mask to the darkness within.
"I am going to retire for the night," the imp said, standing up.
"Have a good night's rest, Jaken," Hoshi said, scooping out the last bowl of stew.
"Milady," he murmured before disappearing into the shadows, his last words along the lines about Lord Sesshomaru before he silenced.
There was a momentary silence. Hoshi slid over to her wounded patient and with once glance at the bandages, knew she needed to change them. They were soaked with blood. No wonder Minoru was acting so woozy. He was poisoned and losing a great amount of blood. The hybrid demoness was gentle while she changed the bandages and seemed to have no issue with her hands being covered in blood. Sakura winced. That was the one issue she had with healing; the blood. It was sickening to know she had the life force of another coating her hands like paint with warm and stickiness that made her shudder at the vivid red. Hoshi was humming by the time she had retied new bandages on after checking the wound. Minoru sent her a grateful look.
"It was growing bothersome, so arigato," Minoru whispered, smiling faintly.
"You are welcome, my friend. After all, that is what friends do isn't it? Allies?"
"Of course."
Hoshi went to move away, but Minoru grasped her upper arm surprising her. Sakura looked startled herself.
"How do you deal with all of this," he asked, gently.
"The blood or the healing?"
"No. With one wound like this I am laying on the floor in pain and unable to do my duties. You, milady, have carried far more wounds than I have and were able to do what you normally do."
"It is with great pain," Hoshi said slowly, after a small silence.
"You are able to do it, but I cannot. I feel weak."
"You are not weak, my friend. You are not used to having so many wounds as I have. I only am able to move on with great injuries due to a dark past with harsh experiences," Hoshi replied darkly, glancing away. "I have learned to cope with it."
"I wish I can learn to do the same."
"The experiences are unpleasant but hai, they make you stronger."
Minoru's eyes closed, in pain or shame she didn't know. His lips moved silently for a moment.
"Then I hope to one day be as strong as you are, Lady Hoshiko."
"And I hope to be as noble as you are, Minoru."
The Eagle demon weakly laughed. Hoshi patted his hand affectionately before getting up to clean the dishes, making him smile. He watched her wash her hands of his blood and turn to the dirty dishes piled by the fire. He truly had a friend in the lady. His eyes moved over to his greatest companion, Sakura, who had moved forward to place her hand on his chest. Her expression made his heart wrench in his chest. She looked so concerned for him it disappointed him in a way to know he'd failed her to keep himself safe. Sakura offered a gentle and warm smile. She looked so beautiful with that smile.
"Are you well?"
"My pride is more hurt than me," he said, gently before wincing slightly, shifting on the hard floor. A curious look came over his friends face before she slowly lifted his head into her lap, his head settling comfortably and easing some of the pain in his back. He sighed, not noticing her small blush on her cheeks. She had thought he'd resist. "Arigato, Sakura."
"Of course, Minoru."
"You are a good friend."
"You, as well. I hope you recover soon."
"As do I."
Hoshi glanced over at the two whispering demons. Sakura was gently rubbing his temples now in a soothing manner and allowing him to rest on her lap, Minoru looking better already. She had to smile at the couple who unknowingly loved each other. Their bond was growing. Sakura's actions were very compassionate. She scrubbed at one of the bowls, pondering over the day. First she had cleaned the quarters with Sakura, took a stroll in the large garden, had memories of her Father and Izayoi, and Minoru's accident. Quite the day, she had to admit. She only wished Sesshomaru was apart of it. She sighed, sadly. Hoshi hadn't seen much of him since the dinner with the Northern Lord and Lady a few days ago. She missed him.
"Our bond is growing stronger to the point I hate to be parted from my beloved Lord Sesshomaru," she thought.
Greetings! Yes, I live and yes I am still working on this story, I am very slow. I am so sorry for the late update (2 months now?). I have been outrageously busy with school and other things I have to attend to. I hope you will all forgive me and I promise, the next chapter won't be so long to wait for! Anyway, wow. I hope you all enjoyed this chapter (as lame as it may be, with memories and Minoru's injury, but it will make sense later!) and please pretty please review, it really inspires to me to continue writing this (fail last time). Enjoy!
If you also see any errors, please note me. Also, I am open to any ideas or scenes you would like to see, I think it would be fun to add the ideas of my reviewers.