Four days later,'Hey Kegawa-chan, how do you think I should perform this little stunt, go in and do it before the court and declare a challenge, or a little more subtle' Kagome questioned through their mental link wanting to get the nekomata's opinion.
It took some time before the neko responded 'I think you should just go in and get it over with, that way you have more time to focus on gaining the court's trust' came through the link and Kagome nodded that was a sound idea if she ever heard one.
Then Kagome realized, she didn't have any idea who to challenge or even what the current Lord of the East looked like, or even what kind of youkai he was, 'Okay Kegawa, let's hit a couple of ningen villages, we'll get most of our information from the humans' Kagome sighed.
'Oh Kagome-chan, I know it's strange to even think of yourself as a youkai but you'll get use to it' Kegawa laughed in that sweet tune before her brown eyes scanned the lands below her and spotted a village off in the distance.
Kagome followed the nekomata's line of sight and nodded 'Good' she directed Kegawa to the ground and deftly jumped from the neko's back landing lightly on her feet, fluffy tail twitching in anticipation, Kagome squirmed uncomfortably and cringed, that had been so weird.
The humans watched her fearfully as she walked through the village at a slow pace until she came across someone who might be able to help her find the head of the village "Excuse me" Kagome smiled sweetly and the man gave a shrill scream.
Her reaction was immediate, her hands came to clamp over her ears and tears sprung to her eyes from the pain, but it also got the man to stop screaming in concern "What is a youkai doing here" someone whispered from behind her.
"Yes what are you doing here fox, we don't like youkai in our village anymore" the man who had screamed cross his arms and stared down his nose at Kagome, now that the ringing in her ears had abated, she straightened and looked the man straight in the eyes.
"My name is Kagome Higurashi, and yes I'm a fox youkai, but I'm also the only fox youkai around that has miko abilities, I've come for information on the current Lord in the shiro" her eyes strayed to the distance where a large estate could be seen.
The man who actually turned out to be the Head of the Village sent Kagome a fierce scowl "And why should we tell you anything at all, our Lord told us that if any strange youkai came they are to be brought straight to him to be executed" he snapped hotly.
Kagome's brown eyes narrowed and flashed in anger, her aura swirling dangerously in the air "Not on my watch, and I've come to relieve you of that Lord, I'm here to conquer and bring peace to the East" she smiled viciously.
"Why would a youkai such as yourself want to help us worthless ningen" the man was in complete and utter disbelief, a strange youkai comes into the village and wants to the help them it was completely unbelievable.
A smile that belied all the agonizing she had done over the recent events in her life spread across her lips "Because kind sir I was once ningen myself, just turned a week ago due to fates intervention" Kagome sighed and ran a hand through her blue black thigh locks.
"His name is Yaramaru, he is a moth youkai, he killed the previous Lord of the East and took over" was said a moment later as the man finally realized that Kagome meant what she said about helping them out and getting rid of the traitor that had taken over the lands depleting their sources.
Her soft brown eyes lit up "Thank you truly" Kagome bowed her head low, that was as far as she would go, then she turned on her heel and headed to the entrance of the village, long hair and mokomoko trailing behind her from the breeze the blew past her at that exact moment.
'Did you get any information Kagome-chan or do we need to find another ningen village' Kegawa asked as the girl turned fox youkai jumped onto her back with ease and she gave a leap to fly, Kagome smiled and ran her hand across the top of her head.
'His name is Yaramaru, he's a moth youkai and now he's a goner' Kagome snickered as mischievous smile spread across her lips, she was channeling her inner fox and she was completely unaware at the time but soon she would.
Ni sighed, it was so boring, his twin Deru rolled his eyes "Would You Stop Sighing" he ground between his teeth, Ni gave his brother a smile showing off his sharp teeth "Seriously" Deru sighed himself and rubbed his face.
"Well I can't help it brother that we are stuck on babysitting duty for his royal highness" Ni sneered wishing someone would come and get rid of the pathetic moth so that they could get back to a semblance of peace at least.
Though he agreed with his twin Deru opened his mouth "You shouldn't badmouth Lord Yaramaru, you saw what happened to those servants last week when those spoke badly of him" he warned before his attention was distracted by the incoming youkai, it was another fox.
She landed before the two fox youkai's in all her glory, long blue black hair, chocolate brown eyes, fluffy black fox tail, markings they had never seen before, a pelt resting over her shoulder, battle kimono and armor and belt littered with daggers and complete with sword.
The fox demoness was a sight to behold and the nekomata looked just as fierce as her mistress, her chocolate brown eyes focused on them and a sweet smile spread across her lips "Hello" she came forward Ni gulped talk about gorgeous he thought inwardly.
Deru blinked his blue eyes and ran a hand through his silver locks "Well hello there" he slanted a look at the female fox youkai and was completely snubbed, she didn't even look remotely interested in his brother either and it was strange females could hardly stay away from them.
"I've come to meet Lord Yaramaru" Kagome grinned excitement coursing through her veins, no one needed to know just what she intended to do until the last minute, by that time it would be much to late and Yaramaru wouldn't know what hit him.
Ni coughed into his clawed hand "Of course My Lady, if you would please follow me this way and leave you're companion with my brother" he gestured her through the gates, Kagome paused for a moment and the neko lay down to wait for her return.
The male fox youkai led her through the halls of the massive estate across three training grounds and down even more halls until they finally made it to the grand hall where Yaramaru was within and waiting, she could feel him in all his ugly moth state it was a disgusting feeling.
When she entered led by Ni, Yaramaru's onyx eyes honed in on Kagome immediately pausing in his conversation with the Captain of the Guard, Higashigawa another male fox youkai "And who are you pretty thing" he gave the female fox youkai what he thought was a flirtatious smile.
Inwardly Kagome gagged "My name is Kagome Higurashi from the House of Hearts, me and my adopted son are the only two members currently and your Lordship I've come to challenge you to the right to rule the Eastern Lands" she flashed him a beautiful smile distracting him for a moment.
Ni took several steps away from the female fox certain that she was now going to be a dead youkai, Yaramaru froze in his seat before anger settled across his already ugly features "YOU FILTHY FOX BITCH" he snarled jumping up and landing before the fox demoness hand reaching out to strike her.
Kagome was quick and she spun having expected such a reaction "Ne what did you think would happen, that all would be right as rain and no one would come to challenge you" she snickered keeping well out of striking range.
"You're going to regret coming here and challenging me you stupid bitch and when I get my hands on you, you're going to be executed in the most humiliating way I can think of" Yaramaru sneered hate shining through his ebony eyes.
Higashigawa watched curiously almost in awe as the female fox stayed several steps ahead of their current lord, he only served him out of fear of death but he had a feeling that fox demoness was going to win, she was strong much stronger than he and that was saying something.
"Oh is that so" Kagome gave an innocent smile brown eyes wide in fake fear just before she disappeared before their eyes, she had, had three days after all to practice a bit of fox magic, Yaramaru looked all around him and didn't find her.
Kagome smirked to herself, no wonder Shippou liked to play pranks on people all the time it was so much fun, but this time she had to outsmart a tactician she had hit a couple of other villages in the area asking for more information and had hit the mother load.
While all this was occurring Sesshomaru and the others had made it back to the well and low and behold standing before the wooden well was Inuyasha, his golden eyes were trained on the well and his hand was creating a path on the wood.
The moment faded when he spread out his senses and turned a snarl falling from his lips "What the fuck do you think you're doing here Sesshomaru you bastard" his hand rested on the hilt of Tetsusaiga amber eyes narrowed in anger.
Then his eyes shifted "Feh so that's where you four disappeared to" Inuyasha gave a disgusted noise before deciding they weren't worth it "Whatever just stay away from the village, Hinoko is about to give birth anyway" he shrugged with a sneer and wandered down the path to said village.
Sesshomaru rolled his eyes 'Fool has you're senses dulled that much that you can't even scent the girl on me' he thought with a snort of disgust, Inuyasha was truly going to regret shoving Kagome away and he was going to be there to see the ensuing ass whooping that was sure to come from both Kagome and his and Inuyasha's father.
"Make camp I will be back in a couple of hours" Sesshomaru ordered the others before heading to the well and leaping into it's depths, he emerged five hundred years in the future in the well house and jumped to the top of the stairs by the doors.
He poked his head through glancing from right to left making sure no one was hanging about and made a dash towards the house, Sesshomaru scented Kagome's mother inside and pulled open the door to the house entering the foyer.
"Is that you Kagome dear" Satomi came around the corner a dish and towel in her hands obviously washing up from a meal, when her eyes took in Sesshomaru she smiled kindly "What brings you here into my humble home Lord Sesshomaru" she questioned gently leading the dai into the kitchen.
Sesshomaru ran a hand through his moonlight locks and sat down in a proffered seat "Kagome has been set a task that will interfere with her coming here for a few months, I promised to apprise you of the situation so that you did not worry" he rumbled softly.
"Also so that Kagome does not have to explain this I will, the fates have decided it was necessary to turn her into something not human, she is now a kitsune youkai/miko thus her features have changed drastically in recent weeks" Sesshomaru explained suddenly.
She nearly dropped her glass plate but Satomi managed to grip onto it before it fell to the ground "Is she even my daughter anymore" pain shined clearly through her eyes, Sesshomaru was quick to nod and Satomi sighed in relief.
"That's all that matters then so long as she is still allowed to come through and visit" Satomi asked hopefully and Sesshomaru nodded yet again, why wouldn't Kagome be allowed to come through the well the daiyoukai obviously was still able to, that question didn't even register in her mind.
Sesshomaru tapped his clawed finger to his lip, he was forgetting something he was certain of it "Ah, Kagome has also adopted a fox kit, perhaps she's spoken of him, Shippou" he paused and Satomi took her turn to nod her head in acquiesce.
"So I have a youkai grandson then" Satomi smiled, she wished she could meet the child perhaps she would be able to someday "Which reminds me would you like to have a cup of tea Lord Sesshomaru before you leave" she offered suddenly.
Ears perking up at the mention of tea Sesshomaru was quick to speak "If you don't mind" he rumbled and a cup of black tea was set before him, he took a hesitant sip before deciding he liked the blend of oranges and sweet spices.
"How do you like it" Satomi gestured to the tea, it was a new blend that had come out lately, she wanted to make sure it was good enough, Sesshomaru's golden eyes locked with hers before he took another sip letting the liquid swish around in his mouth for a moment before swallowing.
"Perfect, in fact when Kagome is able to come back would you mind having her stock up on that tea" Sesshomaru requested setting down his empty cup, Satomi nodded silently and watched the daiyoukai her daughter trusted with every fiber of her being leave.
When Sesshomaru arrived back in his own era, he settled against the well like he had a month before and closed his eyes to rest, in the East, Kagome's and Yaramaru's fight had progressed in the short time that had already passed, Kagome had raked her claws down the moths face wounding his eye.
In return he had managed to rake his claws down her arm, but those wounds had been healed already with her reiki, Kagome had smirked when Yaramaru gave her a wary look, "That's right I'm a youkai and a miko" she taunted laughing merrily as she dodged another attack.
All could tell Yaramaru was getting fed up with the female fox and pulled his sword from his belt, Kagome in return pulled chiryo-ho from her sheath and their swords clashed, Yaramaru's sword bounced back and pain raced up his arms.
"You bitch what did you do to me" Yaramaru dropped his sword as if it was on fire and tried to rub his arms, that only increased the burning sensation, Kagome smirked and leaned fully on her own blade, if he wasn't so angry he would admire the artwork.
"Did that hurt, I was wondering what would happen if a youkai I didn't like touched even if indirect my sword, chiryo-ho here isn't a simple sword, I made her out of my reiki and when she doesn't like someone boy she lets them know it" Kagome snickered giving a pointy toothed smile.
Yaramaru glanced down at his bare arms dark eyes widening in horror, it was like fire was running through his veins and burning him from the inside out, "I've had it" he roared suddenly transforming into his true form.
The smile was wiped from Kagome's face and she ducked to avoid the blast of cutting wind that was directed at her from Yaramaru's wings, "Na, na, na, na, na" Kagome sang weaving in and out of attacks with ease, all those weeks training with Sango had sharpened her reflexes.
Growing more furious by the minute, Yaramaru spat out a ball of poison, "Doku no ya" Kagome swung her blade through the air sending her own poisonous attack to clash with his, this further pissed Yaramaru off as her poison attack stopped his and they disintegrated.
Higashigawa covered his mouth to prevent any chuckles from slipping through his lips, this fight was so ridiculous but the female fox was good, Yaramaru didn't realize it but Kagome had been playing him from the start, she knew she would win and had outsmarted him from the beginning.
Ni directed a look at his captain, before focusing on the fight again, his blue eyes watching the female kitsune closely, she would be an excellent lady but he doubted the East would be that lucky, Ni had completely forgotten her words at the very beginning before the fight had started.
Kagome cursed inwardly "Mizu Tatsumaki" she slashed her blade vertically chiryo-ho spewing that tornado of water and it tore up the ground as it slammed into a column destroying part of the estate walls and allowing sunlight to filter in.
She jumped backwards three times and then spun to the right tripping slightly before righting herself and swinging her sword horizontally this time "Yogan no Sakeme" Kagome apologized inwardly as the ground below their feet spurted liquid hot lava some catching fire on Yaramaru.
All this had drawn the council from their personal wing in the estate and all they could do was stare in awe and horror as the female kitsune fought with everything she had to take down Yaramaru, but also in doing so destroying their home.
A screech of pain filled the air and their gazes focused on Yaramaru again, he had lost a wing because he hadn't been able to put out the fire quick enough, he roared and fully charged the petite youkai female, but she was light on her feet and dropped and rolled to her feet to avoid getting hit.
On his next charge, Kagome raised her sword and took off at a run dropping and skidding across the floor the only part undamaged and Yaramaru flew over her head cutting a long deep gash from his chest down, he shrieked again.
"Oh did that hurt" Kagome taunted mischievously, she giggled when he charged towards her again, his gaze disoriented due to the poison in his system from that last attack, she had only given him a small dose but still it took affect quite quickly.
Yaramaru crashed into the wall that had already been destroyed partly obliterating it even further "You'll Pay" he gave an a god awful screech and Kagome cringed protecting her ears as best she could, but instead of saying anything she just crooked her finger.
"Come get me then, that's if you can" she giggled impishly preparing to deal the finishing blow on the youkai when Yaramaru was close enough "Doku no ya, Mizu Tatsumaki" Kagome called out two attacks in quick succession blinding the moth with poison and then finishing him off with the tornado of water.
She was quick to dispel her attack before any more damage could be dealt to the estate, all was silent as she sheathed her sword and walked to the throne and sat "I am your Lady now, Kagome Higurashi, no longer will this place be attacked it is under my protection" she raised her head high.
The council members were quick to rush to the new ladies side "My Lady Kagome of the East what is you're first desire" Akushu bowed low, blonde hair falling over his shoulders and silver eyes focused on the kitsune female that had beaten Yaramaru hands down.
Kagome's brown eyes clashed with his silver "My first order is to have the rubble cleared away and a new wall to be built and new flooring put in" she decided shocking those that had gathered in the hall now that the noises of battle had faded.
"What is you're second desire my lady" Yuutsuna questioned red eyes perusing the seated form of her new lady, never mind that they had enough kitsune's in the east this one was of the good obviously much like the others.
Reigning in the urge to snap, Kagome pressed onward "Send someone to bring me my companion, she is waiting outside the gates, her name is Kegawa" she ordered and the youkai that was clearly a turtle demoness rushed away to do her bidding.
"And you're third desire what is it" Shuri, the raccoon youkai asked his blue eyes gazing into chocolate brown eyes curiously, his fuzzy light red ears swiveling atop his head in anticipation, perhaps with the new lady the East could begin to rebuild and possibly expand.
Biting her cheek Kagome tamped down on her anger "Gather everyone in the estate, I have a few announcements to make" she commanded and the tanuki flashed away from her side to complete the task he had been assigned.
With those three things done, Kagome relaxed into the seat and grimaced Higashigawa who was still nearby held out a pillow and she took it with a grateful smile "Thank you..." Kagome trailed off cluelessly and the kitsune male chuckled.
"Higashigawa, I'm Captain over the guard, those three that you just ordered are the council, Yuutsuna is the turtle youkai, Shuri the tanuki and Akushu is the only spider youkai we've allowed onto estate grounds" he bowed low to his new lady short purple hair brushing the nape of his neck.
Kagome squirmed under the kitsune male's violet eyed gaze "Thank you, I have a feeling you're going to be quite helpful in the months to come" she coughed out nervously before turning to face the doors as they opened and a bunch of youkai filled the halls.
Next Kegawa flew through the destroyed wall 'Kagome-chan, did you have to destroy our new home' the nekomata pouted through their mental link and the raven haired kitsune female giggled softly rubbing her ears and causing the neko to purr like usual.
'Don't worry so much Kegawa-chan, everything will be repaired in the month to come' Kagome reassured her neko companion before facing the gathered servants and guard which wasn't up to par with her standards, but that would come later as well "Eh hem" Kagome cleared her throat to gain their attention and once everyone was looking at her she spoke.
"I realize I'll get no respect at first and I have a long ways to go to gain everyone's trust, but I'm willing to put in the work" Kagome started shocking most to the core, that right there told her a lot, they obviously hadn't expected her to stick around once she had defeated Yaramaru.
Ni inched his way over to his Captain blue and violet clashed before both kitsune's looked at the female, they could tell she wasn't of noble youkai descent but the way in which she held herself was reminiscent of someone but they couldn't remember who.
Whispers broke through the crowd and Kagome quickly put a stop to it "Just because I am new here doesn't mean I can't hear, if you have a problem tell it to my face don't go behind my back, I'm a big girl and I can take a little heat if it means I hear you out" she growled softly.
The servants that had just been scolded by their new lady squeaked and hid behind the Head Maid, "Also this place will no longer be called the Midoriiro Estate, as my chosen colors are blue it will now be called the Aoiro Estate for the House of Hearts, my clan" Kagome spoke again.
More whispers broke out among the crowd gathered in the main hall this time they were full of excitement, finally they had someone who was willing to lead them in the right direction and to hopefully reclaim their former glory, they had lost it all when Yaramaru took over.
Hours passed after that as Kagome went through a long list of things that had to be done, such as repaint the entire estate to her chosen colors, choose personal servants assign certain tasks to certain guards, overall it was a very tiring day for a newly turned fox youkai.
Mitsumeru who was one of the youkai Kagome had chosen alongside her sister noticed how tired their new lady was getting "Lady Kagome would you like me to send everyone away while my sister leads you to you're personal rooms" she offered.
"Would you Mitsumeru-chan" Kagome murmured tiredly rubbing her eyes, she could barely see straight she had read through so much, the twin tiger youkai shared a smile over their lady's head before Natsumeru nodded, green hair flying about as her green eyes locked with Kagome's brown.
Soon enough Kagome was laying in her own bed snuggled beneath the blankets as a slight chill had swept through the estate, that was due to her own fault but at least she was woman enough to own up to her mistakes and actually attempt to fix them even if she ended up useless in the end sometimes.
She could barely keep her eyes open and with a final yawn they fluttered close, that night Kagome dreamed of a gigantic inuyoukai demon, and it wasn't Sesshomaru, and her ruling over the East for a long long time, their children a mix of inuyoukai and kitsune pups.
Two weeks later a month had passed since Kagome had left the safety of the pack, Sesshomaru was going out of his mind, he needed to know if she was alright, Sango and Miroku watched the daiyoukai pace in front of the well for what seemed the millionth time in two hours.
Shippou sighed and Rin giggled at her lord, Kirara mewed, Koware and Jaken paid them no mind instead becoming absorbed with themselves, over the month they had gotten closer, but they didn't take the next step, Kagome had to return first.
Inuyasha had been down to see them several times over the weeks as well, even bringing along Hinoko and their first born child another hanyou, Sesshomaru had, had to reign in the urge to bash Inuyasha's head in for insinuating that Kagome would have only given him weaklings.
Today was one of those days that Inuyasha was to visit, but all of them could feel something approaching them from the East, Shippou jumped up "Kaa-san" he cheered that was his mother coming back to them finally after all this time.
Just as she touched down Inuyasha appeared, Hinoko trailing behind him, their son Fuketsu cradled in her arms, the amber eyed hanyou took in her familiar features before growling "Kagome what the fuck" he snarled, her scent had changed, in fact she was no longer human.
Kagome jumped from her nekomata's back and stood next to Sesshomaru ignoring her former friend and once upon a time love interest "Good Morning Sesshomaru" she greeted with an impish smile holding her hand behind her back.
Sesshomaru narrowed his golden eyes warily, it seemed in the time Kagome had been gone she had tapped into her inner kitsune "I see you've been well, how fares the East" he made light conversation joining her little game of ignore Inuyasha.
Everyone could tell Inuyasha was getting angry, he didn't like it when he was ignored so blatantly it seemed "Ah I was allowed to leave for three days to see you guys but there are still many things to complete such as finish the remodeling, assure my ningen subjects they are safe and so on" Kagome waved her hand a sigh falling from her lips.
Sango snorted inwardly at Inuyasha's pissed off expression, Hinoko was standing behind him a confused look in her red eyes, she didn't understand what was going on at all "Remodel what on earth would you need to remodel the estate for" Miroku couldn't help but ask.
Kagome bounced over to him a wide smile on her lips "Well Yaramaru didn't go down without a fight you know and I kind of destroyed a wall and part of the floor in the main hall, so I decided to have the whole place repainted in blue thus it will now be called the Aoiro-estate" she giggled.
Chuckles filled the air from both Sesshomaru and Miroku "You haven't changed a bit Kagome-chan" Sango pulled the kitsune female into a hug, it was strange that Kagome was no longer human but she was still someone she considered a sister and that would never change.
The hug was quickly returned "And where is my Shippou-kun" Kagome gazed around before spotting her kit by this point Inuyasha was at boiling point but still the now female kitsune wouldn't even so much as look in his direction.
Shippou squealed when Kagome plucked him up from the ground and swung him around in a circle "Hello Kaa-chan, I've missed you but I've been very good for Lord Sesshomaru and everyone" he chattered latching his arms around his adoptive mothers neck.
"Guess what this Kagome has managed acquire for you my little kit" Kagome nuzzled her nose against Shippou's breathing in his scent, Shippou giggled and it grew in volume as she lightly tickled his belly "Mama is happy you're doing well" Kagome sighed.
Tail twitching in excitement "What is it Kaa-chan, what did you get me" Shippou asked quickly wanting to know, and hoping that he would get to go back with her when she went to her estate to attend to her duties as Lady of the East.
A smile that went from ear to ear split across her face "Kagome's found you an instructor little one, you'll be able to learn more about our kitsune heritage as he is a kitsune much like ourselves" Kagome babbled earning delighted laughter.
Inuyasha had, had enough of being ignored and rudely cut into Kagome's and Shippou's conversation "What the fuck Kagome, first you come here looking like that, next you talk as if Shippou's you're real child, this is stupid drop the transformation now" he ordered.
Sesshomaru's hair stood on end and Shippou leaped to his shoulder hiding underneath his long silver hair, Kagome's tail twitched and she strode forward chocolate brown eyes flashing with repressed fury and to everyone's amusement bopped Inuyasha right on the nose.
"Bad Doggy" Kagome scolded wagging her finger in the hanyou's face "Next time you speak to this one you better address her with proper respect" she commanded in a warning tone, Inuyasha's golden eyes hardened and filled with anger.
"Stupid wench the fuck was that for" spewed from his mouth he was about to continue but Kagome slapped him on the nose again, her face hardened and blank of all emotion, Inuyasha took a wary step back, Kagome was different much different now.
Kagome rolled her eyes, she didn't even know why she bothered "No Inuyasha you don't get to demand things of this Kagome anymore, she is her own person and if you do not behave, she will make you obey" she rolled her shoulders in anticipation of a fight.
Inuyasha's hand went the hilt of Tetsusaiga but Kagome was quicker and she kicked her foot out smashing her heel into the hanyou's knee bringing him to the ground "Feh so you want a fight do ya" Inuyasha smirked thinking it would be easy to over power Kagome.
Everyone was thinking the same thing 'Fool just fell right into her trap' they shook their heads and turned back to what they had been doing before Kagome or Inuyasha had arrived and that was preparing breakfast for themselves.
Chocolate brown eyes hardened in determination, Kagome struck out again curling her fingers and raking her pointed nails down Inuyasha's face being careful not to injure his eyes any, that would be a shame and it would only make him angrier.
His hand flew to his face before pulling it away to see blood dripping down his fingers and onto the ground, Inuyasha hadn't actually thought she of all people would hurt him "What's the matter Inuyasha can't take the heat" Kagome taunted.
That was worse than anything anyone had ever done to him and some instincts deep within his mind told him to run like hell and not look back, instead Inuyasha several cautious steps back until he was stood in front of Hinoko.
"Forget it, you aren't the same Kagome I use to know anymore" Inuyasha went to turn but was stopped by a restraining hand "Hinoko" he questioned in confusion, the inuyoukai hanyou female shook her head and pointed at the kitsune female.
"Fight her you idiot, she challenged you the least you could do is beat her and make her obey you" she hissed bouncing her son, this brought Kagome's attention onto herself and that pretty much spelled her doom as the kitsune female opened her mouth.
Kagome knew exactly who she was looking at "Ah Hinoko of the East daughter of Tadashi wanted for treason, helping Yaramaru assassinate the previously Lord of the East, and vanished with out a trace" she brushed her kimono off, it was a new one in light blue.
Inuyasha's head snapped around to face the inuyoukai hanyou female he had chosen above all else as his mate "What" he asked in a furious whisper, Hinoko's red eyes filled with fear how the hell had she been found out, just who was this kitsune female.
"That's right Inuyasha, and as the new Lady of the East, I have to take her in and give her a proper punishment, see that's the only reason I was allowed to leave to find her, I remembered Sesshomaru and Totosai talking about her once and the rest is history" Kagome bit her lip.
Hinoko backed up "You wouldn't kill me knowing Inuyasha and I have a son together would you" her voice trembled as she spoke, Kagome's brown eyes honed in on her and Hinoko curled in on herself, it was all that Yaramaru's fault, all she had wanted was to get away and he had roped her into helping him kill the former lord.
Kagome watched the youkai female closely and found what she was searching for a moment later "No, you aren't truly the one to blame, Yaramaru bewitched you and you fled in fear for you're life" she stated and Inuyasha's head snapped towards her this time.
"Also I extend the invitation to visit my estate to all of the pack" Kagome piped in with one last thing before walking towards the well, it was time to visit her mother, "Shippou-kun would you like to come with me" she offered, she hoped it worked considering he was her's and they were connected.
"Do you really think the well will let me through Kaa-chan" Shippou asked cautiously peering into the wells depths, the last time he had tried was towards the beginning of their journey and that was when Naraku had been controlling Royokan with the shards of the jewel.
A soft smile spread across her lips as an argument started up between Inuyasha and Hinoko "It should, you are mine Shippou thus the well should let you through" Kagome opened her arms and her little kit jumped into them, Sesshomaru watched the two kitsune's jump into the well and vanish in the blue light.
Shippou blinked his green eyes when his surroundings grew dark, he leaned his head back and noticed the new addition around the well, "I really got through" he whispered and Kagome pecked him on the top of the head before leaping from the well.
Before she opened the door's Kagome smelled the familiar perfume her three friends always wore "Okay Shippou-kun we have to hide our true identities" she told him and pulled out a leaf pressing it to her forehead "Transform" Kagome murmured turning into her old self hiding her youkai features.
Shippou did the same until he looked more human, then Kagome scooped him into her arms again and strode confidently out of the well house to the door that led into the kitchen, within sitting around the table were her mother, Eri, Yuka and Ayumi.
The three girls nearly spat out their tea and exclaimed in surprise "Kagome-chan, you're mother told us that you were on a trip to another country" Ayumi inquired smoothly drawing those brown eyes onto her person, it was creepy how it felt like they were probing her soul.
"Yeah just got back, this little fellow is Shippou" Kagome smiled as brightly as she could as she introduced her kit, not that any of the girls knew it, Eri and Yuka squealed while Ayumi scrunched her brows together in confusion.
"Anyways it's nice to see you, maybe you can you know join college or something" Ayumi grumbled extremely put out with her friend, don't see the girl for months on end and she comes back looking as if she had just had the best years of her young life.
Kagome followed the three girls with her eyes until they were out of sight and the front door slammed shut, then she dropped the transformation, Satomi gasped in surprise "Why Kagome dear you look beautiful" she pulled her now youkai daughter into a hug.
"And this must be little Shippou that I've been hearing about for years now, come now little one I'm you're grandmother" Satomi laughed kindly at the frightened look in the kitsune's deep green he was absolutely adorable and it was no wonder Kagome had taken him in as hers.
Shippou blinked his eyes "Yes that's right, I'm Shippou" he murmured shyly hiding his face in Kagome's neck, he was in a strange world, with strange people, he was bound to feel a little awkward at least for awhile until he could get use to everything, and Shippou was certain he would.
"Anyway we can't stay for long" Kagome drew the attention back onto herself "So I should probably stock up on tea and medical supplies" she explained, Satomi smiled and headed to the cabinet pulling out several bags and handed them over.
Kagome creased her forehead "Lord Sesshomaru suggested I prepare ahead of time, I got all that weeks ago" Satomi waved her hand "Now go on, I'm sure you have duties to attend to as the new Lady of the East" she shooed her now kitsune youkai daughter and kitsune youkai grandson out the door.
On her way back to the well, and thankfully she had, had the foresight to use her fox magic again and hide her youkai features prompting Shippou to do the same, her three friends ambushed her and shoved Kagome and Shippou in the back of Ayumi's car.
For twenty minutes they drove and Kagome was slowly getting dizzy from the overpowering smell of perfume, poor Shippou was already passed out not that any of the girls were paying them any attention, thirty minutes later and she was about to pass out herself until they stopped.
"Now listen to me real closely Kagome, you're going to get out of this car and go into that College and sign up for Classes do you understand" Ayumi turned in her seat and stared her friend right in the eyes, Kagome tensed and her jaw clenched at the obvious challenge in the girls voice.
She really wanted to tell the three girls off, instead she nodded acting as if she was going to do as they ordered and got out of the car heading to the main building, inside, Kagome headed down the halls performing a transparency transformation over herself and Shippou and headed out the back doors.
By now Shippou was coming round and as Kagome leaped onto the rooftops heading back to Higurashi shrine, he yawned "What's going on Kaa-san" he asked tiredly, his little stomach rumbling in hunger as they hopped the distance back to the shrine.
"I know little one just be patient" Kagome hushed Shippou when he started complaining, she to was hungry but besides that she was more than a little pissed, if she didn't have such great restraint then she would have killed her friends without thought.
At the gentle reprimand Shippou quietened and soon they arrived at the Higurashi well, next time she came here she was going to have to be more careful lest those idiots try to kidnap her again and force her into doing something she didn't want to do.
Inuyasha leaped to his feet as the blue lights flashed in the well, when Kagome had jumped from the well depths, he was in her face "Stupid wench Hinoko isn't going anywhere with you" he snarled angrily, Kagome set Shippou on his feet and he scurried over to Sango and Miroku.
Hinoko lowered her head, Inuyasha had to fight Kagome and make her submit if he didn't then she was going to be dragged back to the East and her head would be on a silver platter, she was certain of it, Sesshomaru shook his head both hanyou's were fools it seemed.
"And just where the hell do you get off ordering this Kagome around as if she were a mere ningen still" Kagome crossed her arms face contorting with rage, Inuyasha looked her straight in the eyes and a feral smile spread across her lips flexing her claws in anticipation of the challenge he presented.
"I challenge you to rights to be alpha" Inuyasha stated, Kagome gave him a frightening scowl and soon all he could see was dirt, when he was able to drag himself to his feet again, he mimicked Kagome's scowl, he had forgotten about the command beads.
The kitsune female was pissed off beyond epic proportions and she knew the only way to get Inuyasha to submit was to strike while the iron was hot so Kagome turned her attention on Hinoko, the hanyou pup in her arms and before anyone could react, Kagome had grabbed the pup and handed him to Sesshomaru.
Hinoko panicked and tried to run, but Kagome dropped the barrier around her aura completely and she found herself embedded three feet in the dirt "Do You Submit" Kagome rumbled dangerously, her tone suggested Hinoko do as she ordered or suffer the consequences.
Inuyasha struggled under the weight of the aura, but he was smart enough to get away as quickly as he could leaving Hinoko and his pup behind, he would rescue them later, but that meant he had to travel to the East and to where ever it was Kagome was now living.
The female inuyoukai hanyou shook her head "NO, I WILL NOT" she growled before coughing as a jolt went through her system, she realized it was reiki and her red eyes widened in horror, how was it possible this kitsune possessed miko powers, it should be impossible.
Kagome grew angry and she pressed her aura down harder crushing the hanyou female into the ground the pup in Sesshomaru's arms crying now upon feeling his mother in distress and his father no where around "SUBMIT" Kagome ordered.
Hinoko growled low in her chest, and tried to force herself to her feet, but that only resulted in breaking her leg, a howl of pain echoed through the well clearing "I submit, I submit" the inuyoukai hanyou female sobbed brokenly turning her head to the side accepting Kagome as her alpha.
The heavy aura was once again hidden behind a barrier and Kagome strode forward to her newest pack member and raised a reiki filled hand to the female's leg healing the broken bone before pulling Hinoko to her feet "See what happens when someone disobeys" Kagome scolded.
Head hung low, Hinoko slumped her shoulders in defeat "May I have my pup back" she cried softly, Kagome allowed her eyes to shift to the pup in Sesshomaru's arms before nodding allowing the inuyoukai hanyou female the right to have her pup back.
"Thank you Lady Kagome" Hinoko cradled Fuketsu into her arms "Now what surely we won't leave right this minute will we" she questioned biting her lip nervously, she could only hope that whatever punishment she was given wasn't one that included death.
Hakari landed silently behind his alpha, it seems she had added a new member to their small pack, Hinoko's eyes widened and she nearly shrieked "Hinoko be silent" Kagome snapped craning her neck around in order to see the female, the inuyoukai's jaw snapped shut and she quieted.
"Hakari-san pleasure, I was actually wondering if you would be opposed to joining me on our trek back to the East, consider it an invitation to my Aoiro Estate as the New Lady of the East" Kagome hopped up and down becoming excited again.
The dragon chuckled before facing his pack member "Welcome to the pack Hinoko of the East" he greeted words dripping with disdain until a hand slapped him on the back of the head, Hakari blinked in confusion and faced a furious Kagome.
"Hakari-san be nice or else" she grit through her teeth, Sesshomaru struggled not to laugh, Kagome wasn't in the habit of punishing disobedient pack members "Hinoko isn't as guilty as everyone is making her out to be" Kagome warned before turning her back on the dragon.
Lowering his head, Hakari tried to think of something that would fix his mistake, no matter what Kagome was his alpha and she had been kind to him, the least he could do is, ah that's it "Very sorry Lady Kagome, and I apologize to you Hinoko-san as well for my horrid greeting" Hakari murmured.
A small smile flitted across her lips, Kagome faced her dragon friend again "Apology accepted but next time you won't get a warning" she stated before gesturing for Kegawa to transform "Koware-chan, Shippou-kun with me" Kagome called climbing onto the neko's back.
Hinoko pouted, she couldn't fly so "And Hinoko behind me" Kagome ordered, her thoughts were cut off and she hurriedly did as her alpha commanded, there was some reluctance though because she had never wanted to be just another member in a pack, she wanted to be alpha herself.
"Milady, Jaken and I have a request" Koware spoke from her lap, Shippou riding atop Kegawa's head as they flew along at a slow pace, Kagome met the female imps blue eyes before tilting her head to the side curiously long blue black locks hanging over the side of Kegawa.
"What kind of request Koware-chan" Kagome questioned gently, if it made the little imp happy then Koware could do whatever it was she wanted, Koware stayed silent for a long moment and Kagome saw when the female imp shifted her blue eyes to gaze at Jaken who was riding AhUn with Rin.
Koware's cheeks turned red "Jaken wishes to court this Koware, but as Koware's, Lady you have final say" she murmured and thanks to her enhanced hearing Kagome heard the request clearly, the ningen turned kitsune flashed the female imp a bright smile.
"I'm happy for you Koware-chan, if it pleases you then you have this Kagome's full permission to accept Jaken's request to court you" Kagome wrapped her arms around the little imp and gave her a hug from behind before focusing on her surroundings, if they weren't careful they could fly right over the Aoiro estate.
Needless to say the acceptance to the request made Koware's day, much more than finding out she had an actual home now, though she was certain that Kagome would still go out and travel the lands whenever she felt like it.
Behind them on Kirara, Sango and Miroku were watching on, it was like they were on the outside looking in "Do you think we should" the monk murmured softly to the slayer, Sango nodded, "Then we should tell Kagome-chan, I mean Lady Kagome as soon as possible" Miroku suggested.
"I agree my errant houshi" Sango slanted a impish smile at her betrothed and his cheeks flushed in surprise, she giggled in amusement and looked forward again catching Kagome just in time as she directed her nekomata to the ground before a large half blue, half green estate.
Before the kitsune female could head to the gates, Sango charged forward and pressed her hand down on Kagome's shoulder "Lady Kagome do you think Miroku and I could speak with you in private for a moment" she bit her lip nervously, before her wasn't her friend, it was Lady Kagome of the East.
"I am known for my benevolence yes, so speak Sango, Miroku what is it that you would like to request of me" Kagome straightened her back and leveled a look at her two closest friends, they had been with her from the very beginning after all, the least she could do was hear them out.
Miroku cleared his throat and stepped forward giving Kagome a flashy bow, Kagome giggled before falling silent in order to hear better "We ask not much, but as our Alpha" he paused to glance to the side at Sesshomaru.
"We would like to have our wedding here in the estate and perhaps a small village, a few buildings at the most built nearby if you'd allow it" the monk finished before stepping back and taking hold of Sango's hand and holding it tightly.
Neither were ready when Kagome launched herself at them wrapping her arms around their necks and squeezing tightly "Well of course you can have you're wedding here silly Sango, Miroku, and I'll get right on that, you can consider it a wedding gift from me" Kagome squealed loudly.
Hearing the commotion, Ni and Deru creeped closer and found their new lady being hugged by humans, not the strangest thing they had seen recently but still it set their nerves on edge, Kagome pulled back a moment later and faced them.
"Ah Ni, Deru, I trust things have been well in my absence" Kagome inquired as she strode forward bypassing the two kitsune males, the rest of the pack, both her's and Sesshomaru's followed behind them at a slower pace as Kagome led the way into the main hall where she took her place on the pillow having removed the chair.
Sesshomaru smirked, he had indeed influenced Kagome to the point she almost constantly spoke like him referring to herself in third person mostly when angry and she was a proud creature looking regal on the pedestal as they were led to the side, Hinoko being left in sight.
"Now Hinoko of the East, supposed traitor you come before the new Lady of the East" Kagome started having one of her personal maids take hold of hanyou pup so that she could deal with the inuyoukai female that she had made submit.
Hinoko dropped to her knee's pressing her forehead into the floor "That Yaramaru made me do it, he bewitched me, controlled me, I fled because I feared he would kill me next" she admitted to her alpha shocking those in the room, her father included.
For a moment Kagome lowered her voice to speak with Higashigawa before clearing her throat "Then you're punishment will be to stay as a member of my pack for five hundred years" her voice rang through the hall loud and clear.
The female inuyoukai went to speak but Kagome cut her off "You will be allowed to raise you're pup and visit Inuyasha, but that's all the privileges you will have until you understand you're position" the kitsune female looked down her nose at Hinoko "Now rise" Kagome ordered.
Seeing no choice but to obey, Hinoko rose to her feet and was led away by Kimasu, the head maid who was a panther demon, with burnt orange hair and brown eyes, before they left the hall Mitsumeru handed Hinoko back her pup.
Seeing as how all other business had been attended to for that day, Kagome gestured for someone to lead her company to her private wing and assign them a room, she would introduce them properly when morning came, for now Kagome lay down in her bed and fell asleep, Shippou sleeping soundly in her arms, and Kegawa purring away at the foot of the futon.