The next morning after he had arrived in the village near the Bone Eaters well Hakari awoke feeling odd, this place was very calming, his eyes cut to the old woman Kaede as she padded about in her tiny little hut, if she was the priestess of this village why didn't she have better accommodations.
"Ah awake are ye, come eat up then we shall be on our way, shan't make Kagome-san wait any longer" Kaede grumbled as she thrust a fish and some rice into his clawed hands and sat down to eat herself to the dragon's amusement.
Though he kept it to himself, despite Kaede moaning and groaning about leaving, Hakari could tell that the old woman was secretly excited to get to do a bit of traveling and see Toya, Kagome's grandfather and the kitsune herself.
With that in mind he quickly ate before neatly stacking his dishes and waited for Kaede to finish once she had they stepped out of her old hut and headed to the forest outside of Kagome's barrier, that's where Hakari encountered his first problem.
"Lady Kaede, we'll have to fly, I don't have a cloud like Lady Kagome or Lord Sesshomaru so I'll have to carry you" Hakari grimaced and Kaede blanched in realization, she went to shake her head "I realize it's not very comforting but I shall not drop you" he tried he really did.
"Can't we just walk, how far is it to the Eastern Lands on foot" Kaede sighed really not wanting to be stuck in the air for any long periods of time, she was a ground person and that was that, but she also saw where the dragon was coming from.
At that Hakari heaved a sigh "We could but it would take us a week and a half, and I'm pretty sure Kagome wanted us to return right away" he explained and Kaede slumped her shoulders in defeat "I assure you that you will enjoy this" Hakari offered again.
Kaede crossed her eyes in annoyance and sulked slightly "Very well then youkai ye can carry me" she groaned and suddenly she was in the air, her eyes automatically clenched shut before ever so slowly she peeked them open to gaze at the surroundings 'Maybe this isn't so bad' Kaede thought fondly.
In the Western Lands, Sesshomaru and Touga were watching Rin run about collecting strange items "Rin what are you doing" the younger dai called to his ward to Touga's amusement, it was still so bizarre to him after all that his eldest son, the one who had hated humans was taking care of a ningen child.
The little girl glanced at her Lord before a wide grin spread across her lips "Rin wants to make something for Kagome-nee-chan" Rin announced as she grabbed up the latest item which happened to be some small flowers and twisted them in a circle.
"What are you going to make for Kagome" Touga asked curiously addressing the child for what seemed the first time, Rin gave a start in surprise, her brown eyes so like Kagome's widened before the little girl fidgeted shyly.
Rin took a deep breath "Rin hears a voice in here" she tapped her head "Called themselves the fates, said they wanted to reward Kagome-nee-chan for all her hard work in one other way and chose me" she continued to Sesshomaru exasperation.
"So Rin is making a charm bracelet that will protect onee-chan from evil curses and the like but Rin will need you're help Lord Sesshomaru" Rin got out before slapping a hand over her mouth in embarrassment, the younger dai came to stop in front of her and she looked down avoiding his gaze.
Touga watched carefully as Sesshomaru placed a gentle hand on the little girls head "What do you need from me Rin, I will help you create this item" the dai announced softly rubbing his wards head, she was such a good girl and it pained him that she was drug all over hell just for him.
A wide smile from ear to ear came to Rin's face and Touga rolled his golden eyes wondering where his cold hearted son had gone "A fang" the child exclaimed before reaching up and touching one of the fangs that poke out from Sesshomaru's upper lip.
Touga whipped around "Absolutely not, you will not waste anything more, you've already given that girl a mokomoko a fang is out of the question" he stated smirking inwardly, he was joking of course but he wanted to see how far Sesshomaru would go.
Sesshomaru raised a silver brow and reached up yanking a tooth out of his mouth, it was quickly replaced with a new one and then he handed the one he had removed to Rin "Well take you to Totosai's later" he gave the little girl a small smile before moving forward.
The older daiyoukai's jaw dropped and Rin giggled heading after her Lord, Touga sighed this world that he had woken up in is a very strange place 'A very strange place indeed' he thought to himself as walked after his son and his ward.
In the Aoiro Estate, two things happened simultaneously, one Jaken burst through the main hall doors just as Kagome was walking down the steps that led to her throne, a pure white male nekomata cradled in his arms, and Koware let out a shout of horror.
The second thing that happened was Hakari arrived in the main hall with Kaede in his arms and he set the old miko down just as Kagome leaped forward and plucked the nekomata out of Jaken's arms, healing reiki already in her hands and healing him as quickly as possible.
And as the saying goes, third times the charm, Natsumeru charged into the main hall "Lady Kagome that youkai the one in the medical wing is awake" she announced breathlessly, it took a moment to regain her breath before she continued.
"He's kicking up a fuss and he's already injured two of the youkai stationed in the room acting as you're medics" Natsumeru grimaced, Kagome let out a long suffering sigh, of course the minute she chooses a moment to take a break everything happens at once.
Instead of complaining she takes a deep breath and starts barking orders "Okay Natsumeru take this one to my room, Kegawa-chan will know what to do, Mitsumeru, take Lady Kaede to my grandfathers room, Hakari stay here and thank you Jaken" Kagome stated before flashing a smile at the male kappa.
"Milord found him, I was only entrusted with the task of bringing him here" Jaken bowed before the kitsune/miko before his large bulbous eyes strayed to the right and he took in the sight of his beautiful mate, unable to stop himself he found himself walking forward to stand before her.
The two kappa stared at each other for sometime until Shuri cleared his throat "Koware-san, we have some things to speak about" he reminded, the female kappa sighed flashed Jaken a happy smile and turned on her heel to conduct her duties as one of Kagome's advisors.
Kagome stalked down the halls of her estate to the medical wing she'd created and slammed the shogi door open with a loud clack startling those within "Hiten" she growled, the thunder demon froze inches away from scratching some poor hapless lower youkai and lowered his head.
"Wen..." is all he managed to get out before he felt like he was suffocating as Kagome unleashed her killing intent into the air, his red eyes widened and he clawed as his throat until that suffocating aura is hidden once again behind a undetectable barrier.
His brain caught and he gasped gulping in air greedily as Kagome leaned against the wall with a irritatingly smug smile playing on the corners of her lips "As you're Alpha Hiten you have to do exactly as I say" she started innocently.
"My first order to you Hiten, is that you are Forbidden from attacking anyone in or on this estate, or the grounds" Kagome snapped harshly and the thunder demon flinched, she ignored this and turned to the youkai he'd injured and easily healed them with a blast from chiryo-ho.
She didn't spare him so much as another glance as she instantly healed the rest of his wounds and then left the medical wing, glad that, that was over, Kagome sighed heading to the dining hall where everyone was already gathered.
Sango's brown eyes lit up as she saw her best friend/sister "Kagome-ch...Lady Kagome" she called ecstatically, she couldn't wait to share her news with the kitsune/miko, she and Miroku had only found out because of some of the more nose sensitive youkai living in the estate.
"Yes Sango-chan" Kagome turned in the last demon slayers direction, when the older girl waved her over she smiled widely and walked in Sango's direction, by the time she was standing completely next to one of her oldest friends, Kagome already had an idea of what was going on but didn't say anything.
The ebony haired woman took a deep breath "Well Lady Kagome, you should be happy to know that Miroku and I are going to have a baby, well according to some of the youkai, there are two babies in my womb" Sango announced.
Kagome clapped her hands together and let out a soft squeal "Oh Sango-chan I'm so happy for you and Miroku, congratulations and if you ever need any help just let me know" she grinned placing her clawed hand gently on Sango's stomach before finally heading to her seat as Zengo brought in lunch.
Once she sat down, her grandfather followed by the happiest she'd ever seen the woman, Kaede came into the dining hall to have lunch, resolved to speak to the old woman, Kagome settled into her seat at the head of the table and waited patiently as Zengo placed her food before her and uncovered it.
"Today we have fried dumplings with sesame seed chicken and some noodles with shrimp, courtesy of Miss Satomi" the bird demon explained pointing out the various food items "I do hope they are to you're tastes" Zengo bowed low body tensed.
Her lips curved upwards "Oh relax Zengo-san, I trust my mother quite well, she is an excellent cook and you will learn greatly from her" Kagome teased bringing a blush and a sheepish smile to the youkai's cheeks and lips.
Laughter filled the air and Zengo cleared his throat and stood up straight "Well enjoy" he stated before leaving the dining hall, Kagome snickered quietly before taking a bite of her lunch prompting everyone else to do the same until the maids were coming in to clear away the table and start preparing for dinner.
Before Kaede and Toya could sneak off "Lady Kaede, I wish to speak with you" Kagome murmured coming to stand before the duo, her grandfather immediately started pouting and she rolled her eyes inwardly at the childish behavior.
"Of course child, what do ye have need of me for" Kaede faced the kitsune/miko curiosity clear in her one eye, she knew if it hadn't been important Kagome wouldn't have called her away from the village and her duties as the miko there.
Kagome nodded and gestured at the doors signaling that she wanted to talk alone, thankfully Kaede got the hint "This Kagome apologizes, but this is very important" she started glancing sideways at the old woman, she definitely was getting on in her years and soon it would be impossible for her to even move around.
She nodded having expected that much "Go on Kagome" Kaede prodded hoping the girl would get to the point of why she had to come all the way here, it obviously wasn't just to visit the old man she had grown attached to that much was obvious.
Kagome rubbed her hands together nervously "I have a plan" she paused "To train the future generation miko here in the Eastern Lands, in my estate, and then disperse them to the other lands" she continued after getting another nod.
Well that wasn't something she had expected "Okay and you want me to stay here and train them" Kaede asked getting this sinking suspicion that she was completely wrong, as she suspected, Kagome shook her head immediately the minute she suggested it.
"Oh heavens no, that will be my job, what I'm proposing Lady Kaede" Kagome stopped in the middle of the hall and faced the woman she'd come to see as a grandmother over the years "Is that when one of these miko finish their miko training that you choose one as you're successor" she continued.
"And step down and come live here in the Eastern Lands, after all you're hard work Lady Kaede you deserve to live out the rest of you're life in peace with whoever you choose, and I know being a miko has interfered with that" she finished.
Kaede really hadn't been expecting that at all and she couldn't help it as she rushed forward to embrace the girl she'd seen as family for a long, long time "Oh child, you really know what to say to get these old bones moving" Kaede murmured hugging Kagome as tight as she dared.
After several minutes she pulled away "Do you already have young miko in training" Kaede questioned and Kagome nodded with a bright smile, "May I meet those that have captured you're attention" Kaede asked and the kitsune grinned.
"This way, they are probably out on the first or second training field, practicing" Kagome shook her head, those three girls were really close and it would be hard to separate them, but she knew for a fact that they would be able to bring about great change to the feudal era.
Sure enough the three young girls were on the first training field practicing shooting arrows that had no power behind them "Choko, Kokoa, Natti" Kagome called drawing their attention, their bows crashed to the ground and they hastily made their way over to her.
"Kagome-sensei" the youngest Natti chirped "Did you see I was the only one to be able to shoot the target" she stuck her tongue out at her older sisters as they pulled a face at her, however the three of them squeaked in surprise as Kagome put a hand on her hip and stared them down.
That was enough and she finally relaxed "Now girls, this is Lady Kaede from the village on the edge of the Western Lands, the village near the bone eaters well" Kagome started gesturing at the old woman by her side, when the three young girls blinked in confusion she sighed.
"I'll tell you later, in a couple hours when we start you're regular lessons, I do believe I'm needed in the main hall" Kagome looked at the sun "Feel free to explore Lady Kaede or find my grandfather" she added in there teasingly before prancing off to complete her duties.
Yuutsuna met her at the doors "Lady Kagome, Lord Yaro has sent you a message of most importance to you're idea of trading" the turtle youkai started in immediately following her lady as the kitsune walked up the short flight of steps to her throne.
"Good tell me Yuutsuna what does Lord Yaro have to say" Kagome ordered lightly relaxing into the padded throne, she hated it but she did have to keep up appearances after all and sitting on just a pillow wasn't really regal and refined.
The turtle nodded "Right, he says he would be pleased to meet with you in a weeks time to discuss different items to trade, and that he hopes everything is going well" Yuutsuna read off the scroll that had come from the Lord of the Norths official messenger.
Kagome nodded pleased that the weasel didn't have any problems with her "Good, send a message with, wait a second who is our official messenger for the East" she paused mid sentence to inquire about who took messages back and forth between the other lands for the East.
Yuutsuna blinked her red eyes as amusement broke the serious atmosphere "I'm not quite sure Milady, I believe he is a young ogre by the name of Ikimono" she explained, she'd have to check with someone to make sure she was right.
"Okay, well then send a message with Ikimono-san agreeing with the date of meeting, also include a short message of warning about Nagemasu, I'd rather have allies at my back" Kagome breathed as she finished what she wanted written down in the message.
The female turtle youkai nodded scribbling down a message at a fast pace as she left the main hall to do as her lady had asked, once she was gone Kagome relaxed in her padded throne, now that she wasn't constantly running around building up trust with everyone in the estate, it was nice being able to relax.
And then suddenly she felt rather mischievous, so with a quiet snicker that the servants in the room ignored because they were use to random bursts of laughter from the kitsune, Kagome stood took out a leaf "Transform" she called placing a transparency transformation over herself.
No one said anything as the doors mysteriously opened their lady's laughter trailing through the main hall before those doors shut cutting off the giggles, Kagome sneaked along the wall as she looked for the perfect target to play a prank on, she had to practice after all with her fox magic.
What better way to do that than to pull of hilarious pranks, and the best part people couldn't get mad, oh yes this was perhaps the best part of being the lady over the Eastern Lands, Kagome grinned chocolate brown eyes seeking out her victim for the afternoon.
Though what she had in mind would probably make the man extremely happy, it would still bring about a great amount of hilarity, so Kagome took aim and a leaf attached itself to the back of Jakotsu's head, where he immediately sprouted long floppy bunny ears and a bunny tail.
His face went as red as an apple and Jakotsu's hands flew to his head as the person he'd been speaking to doubled over with laughter arms wound around his stomach, this drew attention and soon the servants were stopping and pointing at Jakotsu.
The man couldn't decide if he was happy he had such cute accessories or look absolutely mortified, a squeak flew from his mouth eyes flying left and right searching for the culprit but not finding them, in the end Jakotsu settled for a exasperated expression.
Seeing as she'd done enough damage to the mans pride for the afternoon, Kagome released her prank and scampered down the hall searching for another victim to play a harmless prank on, by the time she ceased her fun, she'd played a prank on three different people all with hilarious results.
With a red face from laughing for nearly two hours, Kagome headed to the training field to start a proper training schedule with her three little miko's in training, just before she exited through the doors that led to the training field, Kagome swung around and took off.
She found him with Shippou "Souta-otouto how would you like to come learn how to wield that sword of yours a little better, see if you don't have some latent spiritual powers and all that jazz" Kagome hollered to the two boys.
Like she suspected, Souta's face lit up with pure excitement "Of course you can come train to Shippou-kun" Kagome offered seeing the pout on her precious little kitsune's lips, he jumped up eager to learn something from his mother for a change.
"Wow sis you really are the best" Souta chattered as he walked through the halls by the older girls side, it sucked that she was no longer human and as such would live much longer than he, but so long as he got to grow old with her that's all that mattered.
Kagome sent the small boy a fond smile, and wondered silently how wonderful she would seem to him in a few months when her plans for the first school in the feudal era come to pass, she doubted Souta would be all that thrilled to go to school after getting out of it from the future.
"Yeah Kaa-chan you are awesome" Shippou joined in praising his mother, he secretly couldn't wait until he had little brothers and sisters to play with whenever Kagome found someone to mate with and have kits with.
She chuckled softly and ruffled his orange hair "That my Shippou is why I love you, course I love you to Souta-otouto" Kagome grinned patting the young boy on the head as well as they finally exited through the doors that led to the training grounds.
Choko, Kokoa, and Natti were still on training field one, though this time they seemed to be meditating, it was a good start "Okay you girls" Kagome called and they shot to their feet as if they were on fire all three of them standing as still as possible as she came to stand before them.
"Kagome-sensei what you going to teach us today" Kokoa asked eyes straying to the side at the young boy that stood next to her idol, Kagome was all miko should aspire to be after all, no matter if she was a kitsune, she still had her miko powers and that's all that mattered.
She took a deep breath "Well first, Souta stand next to Natti" Kagome ordered gently and her little brother stood next to the young girl, knowing that he couldn't train like the four ningen, Shippou moved a little ways away to watch without getting in the way.
"Okay first close you're eyes" Kagome instructed doing the same to see if her brother had any latent powers, thankfully he did and though it wasn't much with a lot of practice he would only get stronger, and before the four kids could start complaining she continued.
"Now sink you're awareness into yourself find you're core and force you're powers into action, focus you're reiki or spiritual powers into you're hand" Kagome instructed again her eyes open this time as she watched each of the four children try what she'd asked of them.
Surprisingly the first one to get it was Natti, then Choko, followed by Kokoa and the last one was Souta who struggled until finally he managed a small spark of power in his hand before it disappeared and the boy nearly fell over in exertion.
Kagome nodded, it was about as much as she expected from children after all, "Good but you four are going to need a lot of practice" she stated and Choko sulked "The easiest way to generate better results is if you channel you're miko ki or spiritual powers into a weapon" Kagome started.
"And seeing as Souta is the only one who has a sword with him" she paused working her powers and creating four blades, light and short so that none of them got hurt and dulled for the time being and passed them around handing the last to Shippou.
Kokoa stared at her sword in confusion "Uh Kagome-sensei, we're miko we don't know how to wield swords" she pouted, she reeled back as Kagome shifted her hip forward proudly showing off her Mizubyokiyogan-chiryo-ho.
Then came the most horrendous lecture they'd ever gotten "Listen up you three, that pride of yours will get you killed, while the bow and arrow is a great weapon, it won't protect you in close range combat" Kagome started.
"First and foremost bow and arrows are mid to long range weapons, what would happen if an enemy got to close, you would be defenseless, captured or killed immediately, no apprentices of mine will go into a fight without a sword on their hip is that understood" Kagome stared the trio of girls down.
Skin pale and shaking, Kokoa nodded "Ye...Yes K...Kagome-sensei" the young girl stuttered clutching her sword to her chest as those chocolate brown eyes stayed narrowed on her for a second longer before Kagome finally relaxed and she was able to breathe properly again.
"Now watch" Kagome huffed channeling her miko ki into her blade and shot a blast of pink purifying energy at a target, the whole blade lit up a brilliant shade of pink and the target shattered "Do what you practice a moment ago and focus you're miko-ki or spiritual powers into the blade" she instructed.
Shippou watched as the four young children did as ordered, surprisingly this time Souta managed to fire off a weak blast of white spiritual energy, though it veered to the right and completely missed any target that had been set up.
Kokoa managed to get it right next as a much smaller blast of pink light shot from the end of her blade and hit the edge of one of the targets, it was an accomplishment in her mind and she started jumping up and down in excitement.
Choko went next and her attack was a bit stronger and she took a little more off one of the targets, it was to much for her though as she fell backwards and landed on the ground in an exhausted heap, she'd never known how much harder it would be to actually train like this.
And finally Natti managed it, the only one to actually destroy a target, but her miko-ki was much smaller than her two sisters and she went down much like her eldest sister did, "Good job you four" Kagome praised before launching into another lecture.
"Now that you know the fundamentals of channeling you're miko-ki or spiritual energy into a weapon it will simultaneously get easier and harder from here on out are you prepared for this training still" she stared the three sisters down but it was Souta who stepped forward.
"Absolutely sis, I won't let you down, I know that technically you don't have to train me but if I can help you out just a little down the road then I will gladly go through this training with them" he nodded head held high and sword in the sheathe on his hip displayed proudly.
This generated a round of nods from the three sisters "Yeah Kagome-sensei, we're in this for the long run, so what are you gonna teach us next" Choko jumped to her feet excitement wafting from her in waves and Kagome couldn't help but grin.
"Well you need some stamina training, so for the next fifteen minutes, from here to that target" Kagome pointed at the intended target "Run back and forth as many times as you can and Shippou you can join them" she added her kit into the mix so he didn't feel completely left out.
Tail twitching in excitement, Shippou joined the four human children and shot off like a rocket, he wanted to be strong to so that someday his mother might be able to leave the Eastern Lands in his capable hands, he was the heir after all and he wanted to make Kagome proud of him.
She watched them all carefully, noting the way Souta managed to keep ahead of the three girls just barely, while Shippou lagged behind, she supposed it was because it had been a year since he had done any strenuous exercise like this.
And the three girls, were just average, no matter by the time six months were over, all five of them, including her little Shippou would be able to run a marathon without breaking a sweat, well perhaps that was a bit over exaggerating but, they would be able to perform much better than before.
Fifteen minutes later she called out to them to stop and the five children dropped to their knee's sweat dripping from their bodies as they huffed and puffed in exhaustion "Good job you managed to make it through that bit, and there's one final thing" Kagome grinned earning a round of groans.
But the five children stood on weary feet and pulled out their swords on her command, instead of making them pair up Kagome taught them a few stances and the correct way to hold their sword before having them go through a couple of swings before ending their lesson.
"That's it sis" Souta asked sheathing his sword with a grateful sigh and swiping at his brow that was covered in a thin sheen of sweat, Kagome nodded "Oh well that's not to hard, would you mind if Shippou and I went to play now" he questioned drawing a giggle from the kitsune female.
"Run along you five take it easy for the rest of the day" Kagome nudged them off before heading back inside, she'd just thought of a question she desperately needed to ask Miroku, it would be crucial to her plan if they came to fruition like she wanted.
She found him walking through the garden with Sango at his side "Miroku" Kagome waved coming to a stop in front of him "I have a question" she started and the monk blinked his violet eyes in confusion before nodding slowly obviously curious about what it was she could want.
"Okay Lady Kagome what is it, you have me quite curious, usually you'd be in you're room by now" he chuckled and Sango nudged him in the ribs with a roll of her brown eyes, Kirara mewed softly on her shoulder and a soft purring filled the air.
Kagome cleared her throat "Do you know where Hachi is, I'd like to employ him" she stated shocking the monk "I'm sure you've heard of my plans to create a school for ningen and youkai and half demon children alike correct" she asked.
Miroku nodded "Yes Lady Kagome, it is quite interesting and when our own children get old enough we'd like to be able to send them to this school of yours as well" he shared a smile with his lovely wife, neither of them knew that they would live for a couple hundred years extra than the normal ningen.
Her eyes lit up in delight "That's awesome news Miroku, Sango, but back to the matter at hand, I've been thinking a lot and I realize that besides those here in the estate and Tomo's village, the other villages would have trouble getting to the school" she cleared her throat becoming serious again.
"And if Hachi were in my employ for one gold coin every day five at the end of the week and weekends off, he would be the official transportation for all the children" Kagome clapped her hands together as she finished hoping Miroku would understand what she was saying.
He obviously did because his jaw dropped in honest surprise "Wow I hadn't thought of that Lady Kagome, I'll send a message to him right away and I'll let you know when he arrives" Miroku nodded his head and bowed politely in respect to her as the Lady of the Eastern Lands and alpha of their pack.
Glad that she hadn't had to explain any more, Kagome smiled brightly and left Sango and Miroku to their own devices heading to her own personal rooms until dinner seeing as there wasn't anything important left to deal with that day, unless something came up she was free for the rest of the day.
Meanwhile Jaken had returned to Sesshomaru and the younger daiyoukai decided that they would go see Totosai so that Rin could have the charm bracelet she was making infused with his fang and making it insusceptible to any dark curses and the like.
The old demon was surprised however when they appeared in his cave "Master Milord Inutaisho, Lady Kagome managed to revive you then" Totosai chattered on excitedly looking around for the miko he'd befriended during her time while she was creating her sword.
Touga blinked his golden eyes "Yes, unfortunately Kagome had to stay in the Eastern Estate as she is the new lady of the Eastern Lands" Sesshomaru took over understanding what Totosai was looking for before gently nudging Rin forward.
"Rin however has a request of you Totosai would you be willing to fulfill it for a price" he narrowed his golden eyes prepared to pay anything the old demon would ask of him so that Rin could have this bracelet created to add to Kagome's protection.
Totosai frowned not relishing in the thought of taking advantage of the young child "Nonsense, Kagome was very kind to this old demon, so I shall Do It For Free" he crowed happily gesturing for the young girl to follow him as they talked business on what she wanted done.
The fang, the flowers, and all the other items that were imbued with special properties were quickly forked over and Totosai turned to get to work, he understood that as she was now in a position of power people would come after her, Rin loved Kagome and wanted to make the girl safe.
He told them it would probably be done within the week "Well then that's when we'll return" Sesshomaru nodded curtly at the old demon, turning on his heel with Rin and Jaken a few feet behind him and leaving, Touga following at the younger dai's side.
Back in the Aoiro Estate, Kagome had just finished taking a relaxing bath and flopped down on her futon *Thank you for healing me* an unknown voice filled her head and Kagome sat up as if her bed was on fire, chocolate brown eyes flying left and right for the cause.
Her eyes landed on the pure white male nekomata, he was awake and blinking lazy hazel eyes at her 'Oh well I couldn't just let you suffer' Kagome responded wondering if this nekomata was another companion for her.
*My name is Masshiro, I am in you're debt, no doubt you are wondering how you can hear me, there is a plausible explanation, you used you're miko-ki and demonic energy on me, thus creating a bond between us* Masshiro as it turned out to be his name explained.
Kagome nodded in understanding 'That's interesting, I wonder what else I can do with my combined energies' she thought continuing the conversation, the male nekomata licked his paw with a soft mew and purring reached an all new intensity in the room, coming from not one but two nekomata's.
It was clear Masshiro didn't have an answer, not that she expected him to have one but he did respond again *Is there anything I can do to repay you for healing me* Masshiro inquired almost shyly, he'd been through a lot and didn't want to end up with another abusive Mistress or Master.
She ran her hand through his stark white fur humming softly 'Well Masshiro-kun, how would you like to be by companion' Kagome offered 'You wouldn't have to do anything you didn't want to' she prodded when the nekomata remained silent.
He was afraid that much she could tell *Are you certain, I can stay here for as long as I want* Masshiro finally responded through their mental link, it was so weird talking like this but at least she was use to it because of how much she talked to Kegawa.
'You are free to go anytime you wish Masshiro-kun, you aren't bound to me like Kegawa-chan, but remember if you ever leave, you will always have a place here in the Eastern Lands in my Aoiro Estate' Kagome murmured across their mental link in a gentle tone of voice.
His hazel eyes filled with a light she would liken to happiness 'Can I call you Mistress, I want to stay here and protect you with Kegawa-chan" he asked through the link, and Kagome couldn't say no because she knew undoubtedly the nekomata had been hurt.
So she nodded 'Of course Masshiro-kun, welcome to the Aoiro Estate, My Name is Kagome Higurashi' Kagome introduced herself belatedly to the male nekomata as he jumped into her lap purring quite loudly, a moment later he was joined by Kegawa and the two nekomata curled around each other.
Then Kagome was reminded of something, now that she had a second nekomata she'd have to 'Is the well still open for my use, it is a matter of most important that I be able to go back' she sent a quick prayer to the fates hoping that the well was indeed still open.
Her answer was a positive one, but she was in no hurry to rush off instead Kagome settled back on her futon hands pillowed beneath her head as her two nekomata purred away on her stomach, the sound was soothing and she'd almost fallen asleep until she jolted upwards when a knock came on her door.
"Lady Kagome, Miroku-sama said that Hachi-san has arrived and they are waiting for you in the main hall" Natsumeru's voice floated through the paper thin shoji door, with a sigh Kagome placed Kegawa and Masshiro on her bed and stood.
Natsumeru took a step back as her Lady and Mistress appeared, "Thank you for informing me, take a couple hours off Natsumeru-chan, you've done so much" Kagome yawned tiredly, though she hadn't done much, being woke up like that wasn't fun.
When she entered Miroku flashed her a sheepish smile "Pardon my interruption Lady Kagome, but Hachi came quicker than I anticipated" he pointed at the tanuki who sent him a frown in response and Sango rolled her brown eyes.
"Master Miroku said that you had a proposition for me Kagome-san" Hachi turned to face her as she walked up to her throne and sat down, he had of course been warned that the girl was no longer human but he hadn't expected her to be so beautiful.
Kagome nodded "That's right Hachi-san, only if you're willing, but I've had plans made and a school is being built as we speak, it won't be done for several months of course, but it all made me realize something" she began making sure the tanuki was listening and he was.
"Since the place I have set up for this school to be built in is far away from the other villages, the children of those villages wouldn't be able to attend, then I thought of you" Kagome continued taking a deep breath to prepare herself as she got to the point of her meeting.
Hachi was paying close attention as she leaned forward in her throne "I remember you being able to transform and that will play a crucial part in my plans, basically you would act as transportation for the children of the villages and the estate here and take them to the school" Kagome paused.
"And then back when this school got let out, for one gold coin every day, and weekends off to do whatever you wish" Kagome stopped holding her breath as she waited for the tanuki to answer, she wasn't counting on him saying yes obviously, there was no need to get her hopes up.
He was surprised by her offer that much she was sure off because he stood frozen in his spot for several long minutes until Miroku nudged him "Two gold coins and you have a deal Kagome-san" Hachi finally announced.
It was silent as Kagome thought over her options, once she started trading things and bringing more income into the Eastern Lands "A compromise then, for the first three months once the school is started, one gold coin, then after those three months are over, you'll get an increase in pay to two gold coins is that acceptable Hachi" she asked.
"Oh yes it is" Hachi was practically on cloud nine "Thank you for the opportunity Lady Kagome, I will serve you well" he bowed low getting an eye roll from Miroku at his usual antics "Will I get permanent accommodations in the estate" Hachi asked suddenly.
Kagome blinked in surprise "If you want it there is a room in the northern wing that has been unclaimed so far, Mitsumeru-chan would you lead Hachi to the Northern Wing" she ordered rising from her throne and walking down the steps.
"On that note I believe it is dinner time" Kagome stated heading out of the main hall, she couldn't wait to see what her mother and Zengo had concocted for the evening meal, it was bound to be delicious and Kagome was glad that she had such wonderful friends and family and that this was all possible.
Miroku chuckled in amusement as he and Sango followed behind their friend as they also headed to the dining hall for dinner, "You certainly are interesting Lady Kagome, usually it's a lot harder than that to get Hachi to agree to anything" he spoke up startling the kitsune.
"I figured, but at least he accepted, that's all I really need" Kagome shrugged opening the doors to the dining hall and sitting down in her seat at the head of the table, Shippou to her right followed by her pack and then those that were eating dinner with them.
Zengo appeared like usual whenever she sat down and the servants started placing food down before people, and as always the bird demon was very eager to unveil his latest recipe "Lady Kagome, this evening we have fried frog legs and udon noodle soup, complete with vegetables" he stated with his usual dramatic flare as he uncovered the plate.
Kagome's eyes lit up as she saw her favorite food in the entire world, past, present or future, "I'm sure it will be wonderful as always Zengo-san" she murmured flashing the youkai a happy smile, she knew who's suggestion this had been and she was going to find that woman and give her a hug later.
"That's nothing Milady, for dessert, we have baked Alaskan cake" he announced without skipping a beat, "Anyways enjoy" Zengo waved and turned with his usual pep and skipped right out of the dining hall to everyone's eternal amusement.
Miroku shook his head "How on earth you deal with that youkai, Jakotsu I will never understand" he directed his comment at the raven haired ex mercenary turned General of the Guard, the man turned beet red in embarrassment reminding Kagome that she'd played a prank on Jakotsu earlier.
She fought her snickers down however and took a bite of her udon noodle soup, as she thought it was something her mother had made 'Thanks Mama, you always know exactly what I need when I need it' Kagome thought with an inward smile at the woman who had raised her.
Soon enough Zengo returned and everyone got a piece of cake "Enjoy" he clapped his hands together happily before dancing out the door, Jakotsu eyed his boyfriend with a great amount of amusement before sending a look at Kagome.
Once everyone was done, Kagome stood and Jakotsu immediately approached her before he could talk however, she called out to her three little apprentices "Wait outside the doors for me" she ordered "Now did you need something Ja" Kagome faced the ex mercenary.
He swallowed thickly "Yeah, um Zengo and I have discussed this in great detail and we'd like to be wed in a private ceremony, we'd like you to officiate the marriage, do you know when Ban will be back" Jakotsu rambled nervously.
Kagome's chocolate brown eyes lit up "I wondered when you'd ask, is there anything specific you want done, and probably a week from now" she squealed ecstatic, no one would oppose her after all and really it would probably set off a trend or something.
"Well we were kind of wondering if you could just decide, I mean you've already officiated two marriages, one between two youkai and the other between two ningen" Jakotsu rubbed his hands together and Kagome nodded in understanding.
"Alright then, now would you like to hold it the night Ban gets back or the morning after his return, do you want Tochaku and Noko there as well, or just you, Zengo and Bankotsu" Kagome rattled off quickly an idea already forming rapidly in her mind.
Jakotsu sighed in relief glad that at least somebody understood "Tochaku-san and Noko-san will be there as well and the morning after his return, a tired Bankotsu is a cranky one and I doubt he'd be pleased to forced into fancy clothes upon his return" he laughed.
Kagome grinned "Very well then, I've already got an idea" she gave the man a quick side hug before dashing through the dining hall doors "Now tomorrow, we, meaning you three, my little brother and my Shippou along with myself will be going on a trip" she warned her apprentices.
She didn't stick around to hear them groan and zipped down the halls to her bedroom and quickly got ready for bed, she was exhausted but it was a good kind of tired, she'd done a lot of good things that day and now she was ready to get some sleep.
The next morning Kagome woke and stretched and with the help of her personal servants took a bath before they helped her with her long blue black hair putting it in a braid and twisting it up into a bun so that it was out of the way before she dressed in a dark blue battle kimono.
"You seem to be going somewhere Milady" Natsumeru pointed out suddenly as she watched Kagome open her void pocket and start fitting her armor around her body like Sesshomaru had taught her many months ago and adjusted her sword to her hip.
Kagome nodded "Yes, I have business at the bone eaters well and the other side, plus it will be a good place to hold a lesson in history for my three little miko apprentices, my brother and Shippou will be going along, I'll tell everyone after breakfast" she said not denying the accusation.
The twin tiger youkai sisters blinked "We hope you're trip goes well and that you return safely" they bowed together in unison and Kagome sent them a fond smile, they were just happy that their lady had relaxed enough so that she could enjoy her time more.
"Take the rest of the day off, we probably won't be back until way after dinner" Kagome stated, she didn't want to over work her most trusted servants after all "Tell Eki to do the same seeing how Shippou will be going with me" she said after a moment.
"We understand Milady" Natsumeru and Mitsumeru nodded in understanding before scampering off to do their Lady's bidding and take the day off as she'd suggested, they could tell that the opportunity to do so wouldn't be often and they were going to take full advantage of their free time.
After breakfast Kagome told Hakari he was in charge for the day and gathered her two nekomata "Alright Choko, Kokoa, Natti on Kegawa-chan, and Shippou and Souta on Masshiro-kun" she separated the girls and boys and formed her foxfire cloud beneath her feet taking to the skies.
"Where are we going sis" Souta called directing Masshiro as close as he could get to the cloud of foxfire, not that he didn't appreciate being able to do a bit of traveling it was just weird, Kagome had only returned a few days before and she was already leaving again.
Kagome turned her head in his direction "Those three need a lesson in history, taking them to the bone eaters well, plus I have business over there" she hinted and Souta nodded in understanding, he honestly hadn't thought the well would still be usable after all.
Two hours later, the lot of them arrived next to the well "Okay Choko, Kokoa, Natti gather round" Kagome turned to her little apprentices and sat down on the edge of the well "This is the Bone Eaters Well" she started launching into the age old tale.
"It's called that because the remains of youkai were once thrown into it and they were mysteriously vanish, the tree it was made out of was imbued with the power of several priestesses, that's why the bones disappear" she continued enjoying the way the three girl tense as they get into the story.
"There's another part to the mystery but that's something you three will learn later, Souta take them into the village, Shippou go with them and protect" Kagome waved them off, once they were out of eyesight she took a deep breath and jumped into the well.
The familiar blue lights rushed around her and she found herself in the well house, Kagome quickly cast a transformation over herself and jumped out of the well with a simple leap, before heading up the steps to the door peeking out it cautiously.
The cost was clear and Kagome flew from the well house and down the steps of the shrine, hurrying down the streets to the house she'd visited quite a few times over the years, the man she was going to see was the only one who would pay her for the trinket she had in her hands.
A gold coin, and she'd get at least one hundred ryo for it, she conducted her usual business with the man and used her fox magic placing a transparency transformation over herself as she took to the skies, Kagome was glad her abilities worked in the future as well though the smell was horrendous.
Soon enough she'd arrived where she needed to get and found a hidden spot to undo her fox magic, then Kagome stepped out onto the street and followed the crowd senses on high alert, it wouldn't do if her three annoying friends were to find her here especially since she and her family had supposedly moved.
She made it to the store in record time and requested another tag to be made, thankfully with all the new technology she merely had to wait a couple hours and then she could go back to her time funny how that sounded now, and hopefully never come back here.
Kagome also took the time she had to browse through the collars and choose an off white one that Masshiro would like "I'll be back" she called to the shop owner taking to the streets again, she had one thing to do, she wanted to get Zengo and Jakotsu a gift for their wedding.
She was in luck as she found something quite quickly, and because she knew that both Jakotsu and Zengo enjoyed drinking tea whenever they were alone as bizarre as it was, the traditional tea ceremony set with a mix of their favorite colors was the perfect gift and it was quickly bought.
That left her with just enough money to get the tag and collar for Masshiro and Kagome quickly dashed back to the pet store, the two items were ready and they were quickly payed for and she was soon on her way back to the shrine.
However the minute she got back is when she encountered her first problem, and Kagome quickly covered herself in a transparency transformation, Eri, Ayumi and Yuka were milling about in front of the shrine looking up at it with anger in their gazes.
"Can't believe that stupid Kagome, left us all alone here to fend for ourselves, even Hojo is upset" Ayumi growled angry that their best friend had essentially abandoned them, Kagome bit her lip feeling awful, she didn't know what to do besides hide her secret.
Instead she stood there listening to the insults wishing she could block it all out, but because they were in the way she couldn't exactly go around them, if she were to jump it would break the tea set she'd gotten and then she wouldn't have a gift for Zengo or Jakotsu.
When it seemed like she'd be stuck standing there forever a voice filled her head 'Tell them Kagome, we fates have a much better life for those girls and that Hojo boy, in the past' it was a familiar voice and Kagome nearly tripped over her feet.
What really happened was she lost control over her transparency transformation and unveiled herself to her three friends, Eri was the first one to spot her and she went as white as a ghost "Ka...Kagome-chan" she stuttered wondering how long the girl had been there.
This caused Yuka and Ayumi to spin around and pale just like Eri had "Uh hi" Kagome waved sheepishly could she really trust that voice, it seemed like to good a deal, to not only have her family but her best friends in the past with her.
Yuka was the first one to her "I'm, We're sorry, it's just that you left without telling us where you went and anytime you came back you seemed so happy and then you're entire family just disappears, it hurt" she embraced her best friend glad she was back "How long you in town for" she asked.
Kagome grimaced and Ayumi spotted the look "Just for today, listen there's something I need to tell you girls are you willing to listen" she questioned not focusing on the fact that this was the most she'd been hugged for a long time and that it kind of freaked her out a bit.
"Sure Kagome, but it better be good" Ayumi frowned, she was still a little sore over their last encounter "Is it alright if Hojo is included in this conversation" she inquired already pulling out her phone and dialing the teens number even as Kagome nodded her head yes.
A few minutes later, Hojo was on his way and they all sat down on the steps of the shrine to wait, Kagome covering it with her fox magic so that no one but Hojo would see them there, it wouldn't do to be caught after all and thrown in jail for being a monster.
Ten minutes later Hojo was standing before them and he quickly sat next to Eri "Now there's a reason why I've changed so much" Kagome fiddled with the bag in her hand as her nerves got the better of her, but she had the reassurances of the fates that everything would be alright.
She quickly launched into her tale of how when they were still fifteen she was thrown down the well on the shrine and ended up five hundred years in the past, how she learned more about herself and how she and the friends she'd made in the past defeated an evil hanyou named Naraku.
Then moved into the recent year, her several months of absence and her more serious life changes until she got to the part about how she was no longer human "I'm a kitsune" Kagome said dropping her transformation unveiling her true features to the four ningen crowded around her.
"And now that I'm Lady of the East in the past that's why I couldn't just sign up for college" she finished holding her breath as she waited for one of them to start calling her insane and a liar and that she was just wearing a costume and call the cops on her and have them throw her in a mental hospital.
When none of that came she opened her eyes "Okay, so you're family just went with you to the past right" Eri questioned and Kagome nodded "That is so cool, can we go, to be honest college is boring" she chattered excitedly getting a little to close for comfort.
That started a round of shouting and shoving until Kagome grimaced yet again as her sensitive ears were assaulted with loud noises, only Hojo noticed "Lower you're voices" he said quietly but it got their attention and the three girls finally quieted down letting Kagome relax.
"You must realize that if you leave here you will never be able to come back" Kagome warned softly staring each of her friends in the eyes hoping they would understand the seriousness in their actions and not get homesick at a later time.
Yuka gulped audibly "Not even to visit, why, obviously you can" she demanded to know and winced as Kagome flinched as she once again raised her voice, she knew that kitsune's had sensitive ears and she hoped they hadn't hurt the girl.
"The fates, not even my family can come back through, it's a one way trip to the other side, I'm only here because I had business, but once I'm done I'm going to ask them to seal the well off" Kagome murmured, she really needed them to understand.
Ayumi took a deep breath, dragged Eri, Yuka and Hojo up and dragged them a short distance away, what Kagome had told her obviously hadn't quite sunk in yet because Kagome was still be able to hear them as they decided as a group on what to do.
Their decision was made "Okay Kagome we'll go back to the past with you, because we are tired of living under our parents thumbs and sick of college, though we need to go get our things is that alright" Ayumi who was in charge stated.
At that Kagome let out a long suffering sigh "No electronics, and wear traditional feudal era clothing like yukata so that you don't shock my apprentices, they don't know the secret yet, and I'll take you round" she stood casting another transparency transformation over herself and the others.
"What was that" Eri questioned looking herself over, she had felt something hit her before it faded, then she focused her gaze on Kagome and nearly screamed, her features had returned to the Kagome she remembered but she was floating a few feet off the ground.
Kagome smirked "Climb on you four there's enough room" she patted the foxfire cloud and held out a hand, the first one to brave the danger was Yuka and she sat down, Eri followed, then Hojo and finally Ayumi and then they were flying through the air.
She watched their expressions carefully making sure to fly at a much slower pace than she was use to and eventually she reached Ayumi's place first, "I'll be back to pick you up in a bit" Kagome called softly undoing the fox magic she'd done on her friend.
The same was followed three more times and now she only had to wait, two hours later, making her time spent in this era four hours total, Kagome was going round placing her fox magic over her four friends again and flying them to the shrine.
"So what exactly do we have to do" Hojo questioned as they walked up the flight of stairs leading to the well house, like the girls he was wearing traditional feudal style clothes, a male yukata, but he was obviously nervous, why had he been allowed to know this great secret, it was all so strange.
With a smirk on her lips as they entered the well house, Kagome turned "We jump into the well" she pointed out earning a squeak from Yuka who didn't do well with heights "Relax, you'll feel this sensation and then you'll be on you're feet or on you're butt" she snickered.
"But you won't be hurt" Kagome clapped her hands "Let's get to it shall we, I can't leave those children alone for long after all" she marched straight up to the well and took a deep breath standing on the edge, Ayumi stood at her side, Eri on the right, Yuka on the left and Hojo across from her.
They all jumped at the same time, those blue lights rushing up to meet them and soon the five of them found themselves at the bottom of the well, Yuka looked up and saw the clear skies "We made it" she asked just to be sure and Kagome nodded forming her foxfire cloud beneath their feet.
When they rose out of the well, the remark that Kagome had been about to say died on her lips and she saw red, her Shippou, her precious little kit was injured, she could smell his blood and a thundering growl escaped from her lips instead startling the four around her.
The male, the one who could only be Akuto as Miroku, Sango, Kouga, and Ayame had warned her about had her son in his disgusting claws and she was unable to help it as she unleashed her aura on him after making sure her friends were safe.
A dragon youkai dropped out of the sky not even putting up a fight as she twisted her head to the right submitting, but Akuto fought it off, letting Shippou fall to the ground with a thud that made her more enraged than she'd ever been in all her time in the past.
"YOU BASTARD TOUCHED MY KIT AND NOW YOU WILL DIE" she snarled launching herself forward scooping her little Shippou into her arms while simultaneously shooting off the strongest blast of reiki she'd ever used decimating a group of trees.
Akuto took to the skies abandoning his servant, she was dead now, there would be no mercy to her "Hahaha, poor little kitsune, you shall no loss as I have" he tsked and got a sneer in return "No matter next time we meet, will be the end of you" Akuto growled disappearing from sight.
Not far away from the bone eaters well, Sesshomaru froze as every hair on his body stood on end and he shuddered feeling the reiki in the air, the reiki that belonged to no one but "Kagome" he whispered the name before he was forming his cloud beneath his feet.
"Jaken, Rin get on AhUn, Kagome is in trouble" he ordered without a second thought flying through the air at a fast speed hoping he wasn't to late, what was Kagome doing in the Western Lands, near the bone eaters well in the first place.
When he touched down, there was an unconscious dragon youkai, female by the looks of it, four ningen dressed in yukata huddled beneath a barrier, a section of the forest obliterated, and Kagome in the center of it all, Shippou clutched in her arms and she was rapidly healing him.
He said the only thing that summed up the entire situation "Well I've no doubt that that snake is a dead youkai, or will be soon" he chuckled darkly and Kagome whirled around to face him, cheeks tear streaked and eyes rubbed raw, but Shippou looked much better than when he'd arrived.
She must have exhausted herself because she fell over, thankfully Touga caught her in his arms "We might as well rest up in the village over there" he sighed, he wanted nothing more to protect the kitsune in his arms and he couldn't even do that.
Sesshomaru nodded and herded the lot of them, plus the four ningen into the village Kagome chose to protect, and they bedded down for the night in Kaede's abandoned hut, he took the liberty of sending a message to Hakari with Kegawa and settled in for a long night he hoped Kagome woke in the morning.