Previously: The southern lord begins to share his visions with Sesshomaru.
"What is this place?" Sesshomaru breathed as he fell to his knees, horrified at the image of death and destruction playing out.
Though not one to readily display his emotions, he watched in despair as demon and human alike continued to fall, littering the ashen ground with their remains. It was while he looked over the countless bodies strewn about the land when he noticed movement among the dead.
A young human child, who could be no more than twelve years of age, was crouched by the body of a fallen human warrior. Unlike the others of his kind, there was no great flame of power surrounding his body. In fact, a modest glow to his skin was the only indication that the child had any power at all. Curiously, Sesshomaru noticed that he was speaking softly with the female warrior; he did not move to heal her, for it was clear that she was in her final moments, but instead waited by her side patiently holding her hand. When the woman breathed her last, it was with a smile on her face.
Strangely, the boy did not seem to be shaken by her passing despite his age. Though the slight frown upon his brow indicated his sadness, the resolution in his eyes spoke that this was not an uncommon situation for him. Placing the woman's hand on her chest, the boy proceeded to summon a team of dogs harnessed to a sleigh.
Sesshomaru's curiosity was heightened when the boy proceeded to move the warrior's body onto the sleigh and couldn't help but follow after the boy when he directed the sleigh forward. Truly, Sesshomaru couldn't place where he was or even when he was. The rudimentary weapons being fought with seemed to indicate he was in the past but he had no recollection of such a great war occurring, nor could he remember a time where humans and demons rivaled each other in strength and ability. Though, if this was the past the southern lord had seen, then there could be no doubt in its validity.
His desire to follow after the boy was another oddity. When there were such visions of destruction and death before him, why did the actions of a child draw his eye? Despite this question, Sesshomaru found that he couldn't look away. It was as though there was some form of compulsion over him, forcing him to know more about the boy.
As they continued through the battlefield, the child stopped several more times to sit beside the dying. From time to time, they would speak with the boy. Some regaled him with tales of their adventures and conquest while others preferred to tell him of their families and home. However, Sesshomaru was shocked to discover that the boy's presence was welcomed not only by the humans but the demons as well. Though a war continued to be fought around them and the dying continued to curse each other despite no longer being able to continue on, the small human boy with little power was accepted.
Having added many more bodies to his sleigh, the child finally reached his destination far from where the battle was being waged. The large hill seemed bursting with color, the lush green slope rising to the crest where a lone wisteria tree grew; its flowers blooming in a stunning shade of violet. Despite the beauty of the place, Sesshomaru once again found his attention captured by the actions of the child.
The young boy had begun to dig a hole some distance from the base of the hill, channeling his meager power into the rudimentary shovel so that he might work more efficiently. Quickly drawing conclusions, Sesshomaru climbed to the summit of the hill and found that his suspicions were correct. All around the tree was evidence of upturned soil, each marked carefully with a large rock.
The boy was an undertaker.
For several days, Sesshomaru lounged against the trunk of the tree, passing his time watching the child gather and prepare the dead. Sesshomaru found that the boy was quite alone in the world. None came searching for their lost child. None seemed concerned that a boy no more than twelve was caring for the dead. In fact, from what Sesshomaru could tell from the reactions of the dying who the boy had waited with, his role was widely known and accepted.
Day in and day out, the child dug massive graves for the demons and built great funeral pyres for the humans.
"Nature returns to nature, heavens returns to heavens." Sesshomaru recalled Kagome saying during one of their tutoring sessions. Demons being creatures of nature that thrive off the land are to be buried upon their death, thus returning them into the cycle which created them. Humans, particularly those with holy powers, are believed to have been gifted their abilities from the heavens and are therefore burned so that their soul is may be released with the smoke; returning them to the heavens.
Just as Sesshomaru was beginning to wonder when the vision would end, the boy below halted in his work and turned, meeting Sesshomaru's gaze. Sesshomaru had remained unseen and unheard throughout his time in the past, existing as no more than a specter. Thus when the boys eyes met his, Sesshomaru's gut clenched and his eyes widened in surprise.
"He can see me." Sesshomaru thought cocking his head in curiosity. For some reason the boy unsettled him. Why? He did not know; only that the boy's eyes held such sharp intelligence that Sesshomaru couldn't help but startle slightly at his presence suddenly being known.
When the child turned to face him fully and slowly began to advance up the hill, the vision began the blur. The boy must have sensed it too, for he halted halfway up. The last thing Sesshomaru saw of the vision was the boy's eyes boring into his own in both challenge and curiosity. Perhaps it was because the child's eyes were the last thing he saw, but just when the vision ceased all together he came to a startling realization: The child's vibrant blue eyes, which flashed so brilliantly, were filled with a familiar expression; one of deep knowledge and deep regret.
For a moment, Sesshomaru had thought he was looking into Kagome's eyes.
Sesshomaru allowed the darkness to overtake him, slightly shaken at what he had just seen. Blinking his eyes, his vision slowly adjusted as the next scene became visible.
Surrounded on all sides by a crush of people, Sesshomaru was startled when a human walked right through him. They were all pushing to get closer, to what Sesshomaru did not know, but he hated the feeling of people passing through his body so he too made his way towards the front of the crowd.
Finally managing to break free, Sesshomaru found that the gathered people were witnessing some sort of agreement for settled on several mats was both a human and demon delegation. Though he was unsure how long after the last vision this was, Sesshomaru could tell from each representative's stiff posture that a great deal of animosity remained between the two groups.
The human delegation as well as the demonic one wore their full regalia and neither side was holding back their power, the clash and blending of their powers creating a light not unlike the Aurora Borealis in the air above them. Sesshomaru did notice, with no little interest, that the demonic delegation consisted of representatives from the dragon, falcon, inu, and lion races.
Before he could continue his study of them, a feeling of unease swept over Sesshomaru. He could feel someone watching him. Someone seeing him. Looking about, he searched for the danger and found it to be settled in the branches of the wisteria tree which shaded the meeting to take place. The human's features were not striking in any way; dark hair, round face, small nose. His clothes marked him as someone insignificant; not even a foot soldier. But Sesshomaru would not be forgetting those eyes anytime soon, particularly when he had encountered them not moments before. The grave digging boy had become a man.
Before Sesshomaru could help it, he had moved into a defensive stance. The man's gaze, which had once again been challenging and curious, shifted to amused as the corner of his mouth twitched up. Angered at being laughed at by a mere mortal, Sesshomaru was about to advance when a servant of sorts passed through his body. Not used to being walked through, Sesshomaru instinctively attacked only to have his claws fail to find purchase. A muffled chuckle captured his attention; the man was now shaking slightly in an attempt to hide his laughter. Sesshomaru realized then that even if he wanted to, he could not harm the human, nor could the human harm him.
Their silent interaction was interrupted by the beginning of whatever meeting was about to take place.
"We are gathered here today," one of the humans began, "to discuss a peace between humans and … demons." Though the words were intended to seem sincere, the reluctance with which the human spoke made it clear that they were entering the proposed peace with great reluctance. "Our people have both suffered great losses, such that the continuation of this war is foolhardy."
"As a result, we have decided to sort out our differences here in the form of a treaty and hopefully live in peace for many years to come." The falcon demon said; his voice monotone if slightly bored. Knowing what he did now of their abilities, Sesshomaru figured that the falcon demon probably knew what the outcome of the negotiations would be making the whole process seem repetitive and tedious.
"Now to the first order of business: environmental revitalization."
Sesshomaru stood patiently to the side as each side debated each other's responsibilities and who got which areas of land. The demons were particular about getting areas which suited their climates best where they could hunt and live harmoniously with nature. The humans argued that they needed to become more civilized and move away from their instinctive animalistic sides for the betterment of society. Of course this resulted in a shouting match that had to be broken up by the falcon and a few of the humans.
After several days of debating, they had finally come to an agreement on the terms and expectations of each group. However, one matter remained.
"The greatest danger to this treaty is enforcement." The dragon demon stated while rubbing his beard. "We cannot have one side be more powerful than the other and to police each other could easily lead to war once again. I myself cannot say that I would not be biased should a conflict arise between humans and demons in my territory."
"Are you implying that we require an external force?" a human bit out sarcastically, "And just where do you suppose we find this unbiased judge?"
"I'm sure that they will not need to take on such an involved role in our self-governance." The dragon explained exasperated at the human's unwillingness to find any form of compromise. "What if they took on a purely observational role, one where they would be witness to the conflict and offer an unbiased council?"
"That sounds fine in theory but how could they possibly be in so many places at once? Would we have to use a teleportation demon? And what if the witness is killed?" the lion demon questioned.
"I agree." Another human added, "I do not trust a demon to take on the position of witness."
"Well then we are back to square one because you will not trust a demon and we will not trust a human." The dragon sighed.
"There is someone." The falcon said slowly, his eyes slightly unfocused. "Someone both sides has trusted implicitly even during the worst of the war."
"Who?" The inu asked suspiciously.
"The undertaker." All eyes widened in surprise at the suggestion and Sesshomaru glanced surreptitiously at the man in the tree. The undertaker seemed equally as surprised as the rest, a small frown resting upon his brow.
"You must be joking?" A human cried out, "You wish to make the undertaker our advisor? That man deals with the dead! We need someone who can provide accurate accounts of controversial conflicts not some orphan who only knows to dig holes and start fires!"
Sesshomaru found himself affronted for the young boy turned man. What he did was far more than that. The boy he saw was patient, kind, and understanding regardless of their actions or race. Surprisingly, his very thoughts began to be voiced by those gathered in the crowd.
"You stupid oaf! That man has done more for our people than you ever have!"
"Agreed! While we were off killing each other, he was caring for our dead; something few among us stopped to do."
"He has helped both demon and human without discrimination! He would be fair."
"Who do you think is hosting this gathering?"
Startled at that final exclamation, Sesshomaru looked past the crowds gathered to see the barren wasteland. Sure enough, Sesshomaru found that the wisteria tree the undertaker was seated in was the same one which overlooked the surrounding graveyard. He didn't fail to see that there were considerably more graves than before.
The human representative who had spoken against the undertaken was taken aback by the torrent of claims which were still being shouted. Looking to his fellow members and then the demons he stuttered out. "We- Well we should at least ask him first!"
The jeers from the crowd died down to a soft buzz as they all turned about searching for the missing man. The demons were quick to find him, having known where he was the whole time, and soon their gazes drew the attention of others. Seeing that they wished him to speak, the undertaker sighed.
"Though I am honored by the request, I find myself in agreement with Lord Hishu. I do not have the skills required to do the position justice. As was mentioned previously, I do not possess the ability to travel to many places at once, nor would I be able to defend myself from an attack. Being a human, my lifespan is considerably shorter than those of the demons. I would recommend that an unbiased observer be found from among the demons."
"Well said." The human, Lord Hishu, stated smugly.
"What if those failings could be rectified?" The inu questioned while glancing at the falcon.
"I am not sure I understand what you mean?" The undertaker replied confused.
"What if you were able to travel great distances in a moment or were invulnerable to attacks? What if you were made immortal? What then?"
"Of course if this was the case I would be happy to assist the peace in whatever capacity. However, such a thing is not possible." The undertaker paused here before asking a question of his own. "I cannot help but wonder why a demon would desire a human to take the position. Yes, I did not discriminate between those I cared for but that can hardly recommend me for a position of such magnitude and importance."
Glancing at her fellow delegates, the inu replied with a small sad smile.
"You listened to them."
"I beg your pardon?"
"You did not merely care for our dead, but you sat with them and heard what they had to say. They spoke with you of our history, culture, people, beliefs, and all other parts of what make us who we are. You understand us through your interactions with our people. Though we are not of the same body, we have long considered you to be one of us. You have a warm affectionate heart which you open to all indiscriminately."
"Thank you for your kind words." The undertaker bowed humbled, "I am saddened that I could not do more."
"Were it possible, you would take the position?"
"My lady," The undertaker smiled sadly, "all my life I have cared for the dead. If such a thing were possible, I would be honored to care for the living."
She smiled at that and turned to the human delegation. "Were there no objections to the listed skills, would you approve of such an appointment?"
"Of course." The human members said quickly and loudly so to overpower any objections Lord Hishu may decide to voice.
"So be it." She smiled coyly as she gestured for one of her attendants to bring forth a woman who had been waiting silently with the servants. "This is Jisue, a tree sprite who has spoken with her clan elders and received permission to conduct a particular spell."
"What is the meaning of this?" The humans immediately said rising into defensive positions. Jisue, frightened by the sudden movement flittered back behind the inu.
"There is no need to be alarmed." The inu placated, "Jisue will simply be removing the obstacles preventing the undertaker from accepting the position. If you please?" she said motioning the tree sprite forward again.
Sesshomaru watched in fascination as the tree sprite began to circle the undertaker, occasionally prodding him in various places. Stepping back, she nodded in satisfaction.
"His soul is large enough; incredible, really. I had no idea that there were humans as powerful as you." Though she made the comment without thinking much of it, it certainly captured the attention of those around him. The inu simply hummed in amusement.
Sesshomaru looked to his ancestor and then back to the undertaker. Clearly, she saw something that he did not. What had once been a soft glow of power along his skin was completely nonexistent now. If he didn't know better, he wouldn't have believed that the undertaker possessed power of any sort.
"Your hold on it is very tight though, we'll have to loosen that up a bit." With a gentle poke to his spine, the entirety of the undertaker's incredible holy power was released. The human lords may have been surrounded by a burning flame of holy energy, but the undertaker was a veritable sun.
"Ah. Sorry about that." The undertaker muttered abashedly while scratching the back of his head.
"What was that?" Lord Hishu cried as he struggled to rise to his feet. "Why have we never known this?"
"The demons I cared for wouldn't be comfortable with so much holy energy so I've practiced keeping it contained."
Sesshomaru was astonished, despite his incorporeal form, he could feel it. The energy seemed almost alive as it wound its way around him before moving on. Strange.
"Well now that that's taken care of…" Jisue said conversationally before placing both palms on the undertaker's chest. There was another surge of power and the undertaker cried out in pain as he collapsed to the ground.
"She has killed him!" A human cried out from the crowd. "It's an attack!"
The people began to buzz loudly that they needed to prepare for war, discussing what was to be done now that the peace was broken. Frightened, Jisue cowered behind the inu once again. As they were all arguing a strange glowing purple globe rose from the ground at the foot of the hill. Slowly more and more emerged until there was a great cloud of energy. All conversation stopped as they watched the balls rise up. When a similar blue ball emerged from the undertaker, people became truly scared.
When the undertaker's met with those gathered above they all merged; twisting and compacting until a pink jewel no larger than a marble slowly descended, disappearing into the undertaker's body. The moment the jewel was no longer visible, the undertaker awoke gasping for breath.
"He's alive!" they crowd cheered. All were visibly excited until they heard the undertakers moaning as he covered his ears in pain.
"What's happening to me?" he groaned out.
"The demons you have cared for that have passed, freely gave you small parts of their souls to be combined with your own."
"What does that mean?"
"You are now an immortal. Neither human nor demon though you carry the characteristics of both."
"Then I suppose this clears everything up then?" the lion demon demurred from where he lounged, completely unbothered by what had just taken place.
"Indeed." A human delegate said watching the undertaker adjust to his new senses. "He shall be known as the Watcher."
Sesshomaru's mind was spinning as link after link was connected. Kagome's random absences throughout his childhood, her having known every influential person regardless of their origins, even her so called "duty" he now understood.
However, that did not mean he accepted it. No, Sesshomaru's mind was a mixture of hatred for the man who had begun all Kagome's pain, suffering, and sacrifice and fury at the careless actions of the delegates. They had no idea how great her longevity would affect her. Sesshomaru was no more blind to the loneliness Kagome felt than he was ignorant of how each night she would curl up against him, dried tear streaks marking her cheeks, needing to be held close.
For Kagome, her immortality was a curse. Forced to watch her loved ones die before her and unable to escape the tortures of her clan even in death. It was a mistake to grant immortality; Kagome was proof of that.
Once again, the scene blurred. Having sensed Sesshomaru's rage, the undertaker turned his head so that he could once again watch as the strange silver haired specter vanished. It was in this moment of contact as Sesshomaru's word grew darker that he came to a startling realization. This man lying in front of him, the undertaker, is immortal. That would mean that he was not only the founder of the clan, but the current head as well! He was the one who had branded Kagome. He was the one who had prevented her from speaking of her clan. He was the one who had carved magic circles into her back binding her. He was the cause of her every tear.
It was scarcely a second before Sesshomaru completely lost himself to his beast and charged the startled man. Unfortunately, it was not to be for his vision went completely dark before he could manage the few steps it would have taken to rend the wretched creature's head from its neck.
It was with great anticipation that Sesshomaru waited for the next vision to make itself known. The moment his vision cleared he planned to hunt down that son of a bitch and present his head before Kagome. As it were, Sesshomaru's wish was not to be fulfilled.
When he was finally able to escape the darkness he found himself to be in a very different place than the previous two visions. Here the landscape was covered in lush grassy fields, a tidy stream winding through a valley, and a smattering of rice fields all bordered by a dense forest. It was the image of peaceful tranquility. Immediately taking a liking to the area, Sesshomaru made his way towards the small village.
The people living there were by no means well off but they certainly made do with what they had. The children's smiles were matched by the adults who, despite having labored the whole day, were eager to spend time with their families. The neighbors called out greetings to each other, sharing any surplus they might have had with those who had larger families. The market bustled with traders passing through, haggling good-naturedly with their customers.
Dodging out of the way of a few children as they raced past, playing some game no doubt, Sesshomaru decided that he found the place quite idyllic. The air was fresh and the water from the river sweet. There was little the small village was wanting for.
It was as he continued his stroll, having lost much of his anger from the previous vision, when out of the corner of his eye he spotted a flash of blue pass by. Turning around immediately, he saw a well-built man guiding an excited young girl through the crowded streets. There was, of course, no evidence which would lead him to think that that particular girl was her but Sesshomaru couldn't tear his eyes away. Her black hair, so deep it shimmered blue in the light, the passion with which the girl spoke to her father of some adventure, not even the pelts of fur or hunting weapons could allow him to jump to the conclusion that it was her. But she was his and Sesshomaru would always know Kagome regardless of her appearance.
It was with halting steps that he began to quickly trail after them. The past two visions had been weeks long and Sesshomaru only now felt the pain such a separation had caused. So much had been revealed to him and he needed to be with Kagome, even if he was unable to do any more than look.
His heart warmed at her sweet smile as she prattled on to her father. He even allowed a feeling of smug satisfaction at having the opportunity to see her at a child. She had, after all, witnessed him as a pup and through his most awkward years. Though there was little about her childish self he could find to tease, her toothy smile and freckled cheeks were too endearing.
The two must have been finished for the day, their journey having taken them out of town and towards the edge of the forest. Upon reaching their destination, Sesshomaru found Kagome's home to have been exactly as she described it. It was indeed quite modest, though significantly better than those of the villagers. There were racks outside with cuts of meat resting on them to dry and a few articles of clothing were hung on a long sturdy branch held up between two poles.
Entering after them, Sesshomaru was met with the image of Kagome's pregnant mother welcoming her husband and daughter home. Their faces were radiant with their happiness and her parents love for each other was clear in the way they often lost themselves in the other's eyes. Having grown up in an atmosphere where marriages were arranged and love encouraged to grow between the pair, he could appreciate the depth of feeling the occupants of this home enjoyed.
Having gotten caught up in observing Kagome's father rub her mother's enlarged stomach he was startled when he felt a gentle tug of his hakamas. Vowing to be more on his guard in the future, for he had been surprised far too many times throughout these visions, he turned to the young Kagome waiting patiently at his feet.
She was looking at him.
She had touched him.
"Hello!" Kagome greeted happily.
Confusion at her being able to interact with him and joy at her ability to do so warred within him, his confusion quickly succumbing to the joy. He would have to mention to the southern lord upon returning that there were significant gaps in the security system if two people were able to detect him and interact with his nonphysical body. Gathering himself for a moment, Sesshomaru crouched down to be eyelevel with Kagome before responding in kind.
"My name's Kagome!" She stated proudly, "Are you a fairy, because I can see the wall through you?"
Slightly taken aback at her exclamation he smiled recalling their conversation the night he returned from his hunt. She had spoken of her love of fairies then too. "You may call me Sesshomaru and I am not a fairy but a demon."
"Demons and fairies are the same thing right?"
"No, not really." Not at all, he added silently.
"Well, I think that you are a fairy. Some of the village kids said that demons are really scary and you are too pretty."
"Thank you." Sesshomaru said with a smirk, glad that Kagome thought him attractive; even if it was her ten year old self. "I think you are very pretty too."
"Are you here to talk to mommy or daddy? I don't think they've noticed you here though Sess- Sess-," she paused in frustration, trying to work out the sound of his name, "Prince of the Fairies." She finally settled on. Thoroughly amused, Sesshomaru agreed to the name despite the dishonor he would face should this conversation become public knowledge.
"I'm here to see you, Kagome. Unfortunately, I don't think your mom or dad can see me."
"Oh," Kagome frowned despondently for a moment. Though, not one to stay upset, Kagome's face lit up with a new idea, "Then this can be our secret! We can explore together, go on adventures together, and you can even stay the night and no one will know!"
Smiling at her enthusiasm, Sesshomaru nodded his agreement and the two quickly set off to explore the vegetable garden behind the house. In a far different trend than the previous visions, Sesshomaru spent a peaceful afternoon and evening with Kagome as they hunted for magical wishing stones and she told regaled him with the rich magical presence in the forest she called home. If her tales could be believed, she had been involved in a great love triangle between two fairy knights and had saved the world no less than six times.
It was one of the most peaceful afternoons he could remember in a long time. Here there were no worries or obligations to tie him down and Kagome was free of the restrictions of her clan. They were simply two people enjoying each other's company.
When night fell and Kagome drifted off amidst the telling of another epic adventure, Sesshomaru allowed himself to think on the Kagome he had met today. His Kagome had often lamented his puphood belief that she required training - usually a precursor for him raising all manner of chaos within the western lands - though he could easily tell that her younger self was equally excitable.
Unexpectedly, during his musings an image of Kagome caring for a young girl looking much like her ten year old self came to mind and he had to fight off a blush at the appealing thought; particularly when he added in the additional silver headed boy. Miffed at himself for imagining such a thing with his respected pack mate, he turned away from the small Kagome beside him so to prevent any other thoughts of their potential family from entering his head.
Sesshomaru's sleep was disturbed when Kagome nudged him, her face lit with excitement.
"Daddy says that were going on an adventure. Mommy has to stay home, but daddy says that he wants me to go with him!" She said in a rush.
"Is your father having you accompany him on his hunt today?" Sesshomaru inquired with a yawn.
"No!" She practically squealed, "Daddy says that his family wants to meet me. There is a big party where everyone gets together and this year I was invited too!"
The words had scarcely left her mouth before she held Sesshomaru's undivided attention. Straining to recall every detail from his conversation with the older Kagome he began to notice things he should have before. Kagome was ten years of age and her mother too far along in her pregnancy to leave the house. Kagome had said that her mother gave birth when she was away at the family gathering for the first time.
She had also said that she never saw her newborn brother.
"You are not going." Sesshomaru commanded, interrupting her description of her father's friend who sometimes came to visit. He did not realize how harsh his voice sounded nor did he notice the childish excitement slip from her features.
"But I want to go."
"You will not attend this meeting. I forbid it!"
"NO!" Kagome yelled angrily. "Daddy said that his friend wanted us to go and daddy said that I could."
"It is dangerous, Kagome! I will not allow you to be hurt."
Kagome had opened her mouth to yell back when her father called for her from the home's entrance. Glaring one last time at Sesshomaru, Kagome turned and made her way down to her father.
"Kagome, this discussion is not over." Sesshomaru said trailing after her.
"Well I don't care what you have to say, I'm going and that's final!" She continued to argue despite the strange looks she received from her parents who believed her to be talking to herself.
"Then I'm coming with you!"
"Fine!"
"Fine!"
Settling himself on the cart beside Kagome the two refused to make eye contact or speak for much of the journey. Thoroughly disappointed in himself, Sesshomaru could not believe that he allowed himself to get into an argument with Kagome, let alone a ten year old Kagome. He was undergoing his trials to enter into adulthood! He could not continue to behave in such a childish manner.
He had let his panic at the situation get the best of him and couldn't think of any alternate course than direct confrontation and prevention. He couldn't very well tell a young girl that the family she was so eager to meet was going to torture her the rest of her life. Besides, there was no way a ten year old girl would believe such a story, even if that girl happened to be Kagome. No, he would simply have to defend her in his own way when they got there.
Sure that the information would be valuable at a later time, Sesshomaru observed his surroundings carefully. Memorizing every tree, hill, and stream they came across as they progressed through the countryside. Unfortunately, nothing was familiar to him. He had no way of knowing just how old Kagome is seeing how she evaded such a question each time it was put forth. He could only assume that because none of the geography was familiar, he was either in a different region than the west or much had changed over the course of her life.
When the cart rolled to a stop, Sesshomaru had thought they had taken a wrong turn for the road deadened into the base of a stony cliff. Rather than turning around and consulting the locals in the village they had passed through not long ago, Kagome's father helped his daughter down and proceeded to gather their belongings. It was with no little curiosity that Sesshomaru watched as Kagome's father patted the smooth surface before brushing away the dust which had settled over a spot on the wall near his waste. Two triangles in the shape of an hourglass were revealed beneath Kagome's father's hand. Seeing this, her father bent to Kagome's height and asked her if she could check the cart which Kagome obliged happily.
The moment her back was turned, he drew one of his many hunting knives and proceeded to cut his hand, clenching it in a fist soon after so that the blood pooled in his palm. Wasting little time, he allowed his blood to drip down the hourglass so that the blood appeared to fill the carved symbol much like grains of sand would a true one.
When both sides were fully crimson, the stone crumbled before him so that there was a small pile of rock at their feet and a hidden entrance revealed. Scarcely having noticed that Kagome had returned to his side, Sesshomaru moved forward carefully. He forced himself to temper his desire to seek out the undertaker who must still be living; Kagome's eyes pled him to not leave her side. Though she had originally been excited at the adventure, she had accidentally seen her father as he bled himself and did not like the expression on her normally cheerful father's face. He would remain by her side.
They were led through a series of chambers lit only by torch, the walls decorated magnificently with richly colored tapestries and ornamental weaponry. Kagome's hand clutched the excess fabric of her father's hakamas as her eyes darted about in fascination. Not looking where she was walking, Kagome found herself tangled in the limbs of a boy who looked to be several years older than she.
Patiently, the teenager helped Kagome to her feet. Though the soft smile he gave Kagome and reassurance that he was not harmed by her carelessness appeared genuine, Sesshomaru couldn't help but take an instant dislike to the boy. If asked, there was nothing particular that stood out about him; his blue eyes and dark hair were not unlike Kagome's own and he seemed pleasing. None the less, Sesshomaru's palms itched and the hair on the back of his neck stood on edge; his senses screaming to be on his guard.
Having been lost in thought, Kagome's father had not realized that he had inadvertently crashed his distracted daughter into an innocent bystander and immediately moved to help. His standing in the clan was low enough that he was only truly required to attend the clan meetings when summoned. Therefore, when he saw just who it was that they had collided with, he fell to his knees in apology.
"Young master, please forgive my carelessness. I assure you it will not happen again."
Kagome glanced between her father and the nice man confused.
"Please rise." The man's voice was smooth and deep, "No harm was done to myself or the young lady. Though it would be best to remain alert, not everyone here will be so forgiving."
"Of course, young master." Kagome's father demurred while keeping his eyes humbly averted, "I will strive to act as you have advised."
"See that you do."
Briefly smiling at Kagome, he continued on his way past them. Sesshomaru followed the man's figure with his eyes until he vanished around a corner. As brief as the exchange had been, Sesshomaru found himself displeased. Having grown up in a very political world where people rarely displayed their honest opinions, he did not miss the artifice guiding the young man's actions. Though this in itself was not singular, that such displays of submission are expected of the clan's members was disturbing. Not even the servants in his own illustrious household were required to act as such.
A slight tugging from Kagome alerted him of their continuation through the honeycomb the Watchers inhabited. Sesshomaru promptly forgot the encounter and the resulting bad taste it had left when the narrow corridor opened into a wide reception hall.
Having entered into the heart of the Watcher's headquarters, Sesshomaru found himself surprised at the gathering. Although their meeting with the "young master" had indicated a strict hierarchy, Sesshomaru quickly observed that those present mingled indiscriminately. Even more shocking was the lack of robes obscuring their figures and the absence of the clan's symbolic hourglass. The shrouded and mysterious clan which had been a plague to his Kagome was revealed to be no more than a rag tag group of farmers, merchants, laborers, and individuals of various other professions. All in all, they were a harmless bunch. The laughter and good natured cheer ringing out as friends and family greeted each other spoke more of a long awaited reunion rather than a mandatory summoning of minions. Sesshomaru couldn't help but wonder just what had changed in the years since.
Kagome practically burst with energy as she eagerly looked about the room. Her father's lack of standing meant that he was less connected within the clan, yet he did not lack for conversation. It became clear to Sesshomaru that Kagome had clearly inherited her good humor and ability to charm even the roughest soldiers from her father as a small crowd gathered to listen to his outrageous tales.
Despite the peaceful hum of conversation, Sesshomaru had not forgotten his purpose in going with them. Though he didn't know what or how, something would happen during their stay that would irrevocably tie Kagome to her clan forever. Thus it was with no little relief that the day passed uneventfully.
When evening came, a young man strode into the reception room. He was unremarkable in most ways; his hair was dark, his cloths were plain, and he seemed quite despondent. Any other day, Sesshomaru would have dismissed him if it were not for the sudden attention paid to his entrance; the entire gathered audience quickly dropped to their knees before him.
The man slowly shuffled his way through the crowd; searching. It was as he made a pass in their direction that Sesshomaru every sense screamed in warning.
His eyes were the most familiar shade of blue.
For a moment, Sesshomaru nearly lunged for the man believing him to be the undertaker. However, he caught himself when he saw that although the two men shared some features, they were different people. The most notable distinguishing feature was actually the eyes. So often lauded as the windows to the soul, Sesshomaru could see nothing but loss and pain. It was almost if the man had already died and his body was being kept on the mortal plane against his will.
Having a curious nature, Kagome failed to continue in her genuflection and instead looked at the man; a happy smile spreading across her face as she did.
"My lord!" she happily greeted. The man in question's head instantly snapped in her direction even as her father forced her back down. Eyes darting between Kagome and the "lord," Sesshomaru was struggling to put together the pieces, not at all liking the relived expression on the man's previously dead looking face.
"Kagome." The man breathed her name like a prayer as he quickened his pace towards them. Sesshomaru hastened to stand between them but was just as quickly dismissed as the man walked through his spectral body. "Kagome."
"Hi, mister." Kagome said suddenly shy from the attention she was receiving.
"I am so, so sorry, Kagome."
"Why?"
Kagome's innocent question was never answered and despite Sesshomaru's many attempts to intervene, the man reached out with a shaky hand. The moment his finger tip brushed her cheek he smiled sighing and collapsed to the ground. There was a brief moment of silence, one in which Sesshomaru turned his gaze from the prone body to Kagome only to see her expression twisted into one of excruciating pain.
Her screams as she clutched at her head were the last he heard as the vision faded to blackness.
He had failed her once again. Would he ever succeed in protecting her? Was he doomed to watch her suffer eternally while he could only look on helplessly?
Even as his vision cleared, he did not wish to see more. His sense of time was warped and it felt like months had passed since he was facing down the southern lord at his coming of age ceremony. He did not wish to see any more horrors. What he truly desired was to see Kagome, his Kagome, and to hold her in his arms so that he might ensure her health and safety.
Reluctant though he may have been to continue with the visions, he was confused and considerably frustrated when his sight failed to clear completely. It was almost as if there was a film covering his eyes, obscuring his vision.
He found that he was in a homely cottage nestled in a dense forest. At first, Sesshomaru thought he had returned to Kagome's home. That is, before a very familiar girl walked through the door carrying a basket of herbs.
She was considerably older than he last recalled seeing her. Her now longer black hair was tied out of the way with a cloth and her bright smile was no longer gapped. She had traded out her checkered orange kimono for a lighter yellow one decorated with images of dragonflies and spring flowers. The eyes that had haunted his dreams were filled with the joys of life as she managed a small horde of children all gathered around her knees. The most notable change he saw being that she was very much alive.
"How is this possible?" he whispered hoarsely. "Rin-"
Before he could look any longer, the scene shifted unexpectedly to show the slayer woman treating the monk's wounds, an unrepentant smile on his face even as he rubbed at the growing bump on his head. Confused why such an image was of value to him and preferring to return to Rin, Sesshomaru was once again disoriented as the two humans blurred and the southern lady gazing down at something with interest appeared.
The next to appear was Naga. Interestingly enough, his face held no signs of challenge or even displeasure. Instead, Naga looked contemplative and possibly even a little longing as he watched someone. Turning to see the subject, Sesshomaru was once again disappointed as the world shifted once again.
This time, Sesshomaru had to reel back in shock when he found himself looking into his own face. Having gotten over the strange out of body experience quickly, his eyes were drawn to movement on the top of his head. Are those ears? Before he could see past the film, his vision darkened and he was confused to once again see himself.
Having noticed that the visions were becoming more brief and distorted, Sesshomaru was not surprised that the next images were nothing but grimy flashes. Despite this, they were the most horrifying images he had seen yet.
Enclosed in a room, Kagome lay chained to a stone floor; her usually bright eyes were flat and unseeing. Every surface in the dank room was covered with her name almost as if it had been vandalized. Sesshomaru could feel a cool wave of apprehension settle deep in his gut when he recognized his own writing among the many littering the room.
But it's impossible to write her name.
The final scene was familiar to Sesshomaru in that it much resembled the first vision. It was one of scorched earth and needless death. Though difficult to make out, standing alone was an individual smiling widely with his arms spread wide. He could not say whether it was a male or female, but the cruel laughter resonated within his soul.
Suddenly, the sun began to burn his eyes and his ears rang sharply. As though he had been overcome by some mysterious force, all the strength left his body. Locking his knees, he prevented himself from falling even as his stomach and head protested.
"Easy there, young one." A familiar voice said as a hand clasped his bicep to balance him. "Coming back is the hardest part."
"Why do I feel so weak?"
"Your spiritual body needs to align itself to your physical one. It has only been a few hours here, while you may have been in the vision for years. If you spend too much time in a vision and are not strong enough to transition back, you will die."
Though Sesshomaru knew that the southern lord was still speaking, he did not have the presence of mind to listen. He was still reeling from what he had seen; he now had more questions than he had answers.
Panting, he looked to where Kagome was seated beside Kirai. She must have seen the question in his eyes because she smiled back sadly; her universal sign that she would tell him if she could. Disappointed and becoming increasingly frustrated, he couldn't hold anything against Kagome. She was doing her best to survive a game pitted against her from the start.
Straightening his back, he stood proud. He would discover the answers for himself soon. In the meantime, he needed to be her support and strength.
"That concludes the individual challenges." Sesshomaru absently heard his father announce. "We will now commence the final stage of The War."
Hello again! I'm only putting this in as an explanation why I didn't update sooner (mostly because I specifically said that I would). As you know I'm in Canada (Ottawa btw) working for the summer and away from my family. Unfortunately, the last few weeks have really sucked. Some family matters came up that required most of my attention and on top of this my dog passed away. Anyways, I just wanted people to know that this is an isolated situation and I will be updating regularly. Thanks for sticking around :)