Disclaimer: I do not own either Inuyasha or Kuroko no Basket. They belong to their respective authors.
I'm so sorry that this chapter has been five years in the making, but please let me know what you all think of it! I'm curious if people will catch on to some of the subtle things that I put into each of the major scenes. :)
Also a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to all who have reviewed, liked, and followed my story over the years! Thanks for not giving up on me and my stories! I appreciate all the comments and encouragement! :)
The Battlefield of Basketball: It's Just Began
Chapter Two: Guardian from Beyond Time
1590
Siege against Hōjō Clan
Watching high above as the mass of humans surrounded the castle, Sesshomaru scanned the ground to assess the siege. It was well done. There were nearly 200,000 men in the army and it was a rather overwhelming show of force… for humans that is. 'A youkai would have no need for such a group, this Sesshomaru could easily decimate the castle and entire army with but a few swings of Bakusaiga.'
Cold golden eyes swept over the camp and felt the signature of several hundred holy humans. It was concerning that the monks and mikos were gathering in such a large group. He had been receiving reports for decades now of the monks and mikos increased animosity and hatred for youkai. There had even been outright attacks on various youkai villages. He sneered, the humans had not lived long when that had been attempted on his own lands; but many youkai would still have died if not for the aid of a spirit that answered to the name of Kokoro.
None had ever seen her, but many of the youkai to escape the attacks spoke of blue barriers that formed between them and the attacking humans. Often the young were the most ferociously protected, some of the pups even spoke of hearing a sweet voice on the wind that gave them directions and comfort. Many of the elders in the villages also told of how they had dreams of a woman, with midnight black hair and eyes the color of a crystal sea, days or weeks before the attacks warning them to leave or fortify, though few heeded the dreams at first. But as more attacks happened and the stories spread more were willing to listen to this Kokoro, even when more rumors spread that she occasionally protected humans as well.
Sesshomaru frowned. It was odd that the spirit had never attempted to speak with any of the four Cardinal Lords. He would wish to speak with this Kokoro, if only to ascertain where she stood and why she protected both youkai and humans.
His focus once more went to the mass of humans below him. This could become an irritant if the holy humans coordinated with the human war leaders to attack youkai in mass. He would mention it at the upcoming Cardinal Lords meeting.
A subtle sneer crossed his features at the thought of meeting at the Eastern Wolves Palace. They were much too uncouth and smelly for him to desire to spend much time in their presence. Their wolf prince had become a Lord fifty years ago, taken up the ruling, and for all that he disliked them, Koga was turning out to be a good, if reckless, leader.
Giving one last survey he prepared to leave when suddenly there was a feeling of power behind him and he tensed. Resting a hand on Bakusaiga, he turned to see what creature was emitting such power and yet no scent. The woman, for it was female, was rather beautiful, if also see-through, with sky blue eyes- no whites, or pupils, only blue. Her kimono was a washed out sky blue with pink and purple starbursts interspersing the blue and her faded long black hair, waved about in an unseen breeze moving opposite the air current.
It was disconcerting that she bore no scent; he was inu and scent was his strongest sense. It was how all inu identified people and the world around them. The senses of taste and hearing were close seconds. Most were surprised when they learned that touch was the third sense. For though he and others were considered cold and reserved when they matured to adulthood, having learned to limit who they gave such affection to, inu were tactile creatures. He was cautious of who he gave a place in his pack after his father had died and his mother had left the Western Shiro for her own palace. Sight was a distant fourth, for inu were born blind and stayed so for the first month of their life.
The female of power smiled and bowed, "Greetings Lord of the West. This one is called Kokoro."
The subtle tension seeped from him; still he left his hand on his sword. So this was the guardian. "This one has heard of your actions in these recent decades, for youkai…and humans. Why have you sought out this Sesshomaru?"
She turned to look over the massive group below them as she folded her hands before her into her kimono sleeves. "You are right to be concerned with such a large group of humans, particularly the large amount of holy humans."
"Hn, this one is not concerned. What are they but mere insects to one such as I?"
Kokoro gave a small smile, "Cautious then. Surveying the lay of the land as any war tactician would of one's opponent. Even if they are considered inferior in quality they make up for it in quantity and ingenuity."
He glanced over the defeated shiro and conquering army, "This Sesshomaru sees nothing so unique; simply a large amount of humans, near to this one's border."
The female hummed softly, before looking him in the eyes. "This Kokoro comes with a warning for the four Cardinal Lords."
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow and she waved a hand her tone suddenly much less formal, "Yes, yes, your Lordship is only one of four, yet you hold the greatest territory and the largest amount of youkai under your rule. This will effect your land more than any other, so I give this warning to the Lord of the West first and foremost."
He inclined his head, "What is this warning?"
"In perhaps a decade the humans will unify under one war leader and, if nothing is done, it is likely all youkai will be wiped from this land three hundred years hence."
He flicked his silver hair over his shoulder, "This Sesshomaru would not be bested so easily."
Kokoro shook her head, "The human numbers will continue to grow and multiply quickly in the coming centuries and should the holy monks and mikos petition for all youkai to be hunted down and killed… your kind will not last."
Her word had a finality to them that gave him pause. She spoke as if this was fact, not speculation, not even as if it were a prophecy; but an irrevocable statement of fact. And her warnings had proven true in the past.
"Why give this warning now?"
"I have several plans in motion to prevent the eradication of your species, Lord of the West. I have brokered an agreement with the human who will be the unifier and first Shōgunto a mutual live and let live policy. Youkai will leave the humans be and humans will leave the youkai be."
"Hn. You expect this to be enough? The humans will break their word. They lack honor."
"Not all of them, but agreed, the contract will not be enough. I would request that the four Cardinal Lords begin to remove humans from their territories and to establish barriers to separate the youkai and human societies."
"The humans will remember the land is missing, the barriers will be proof that something is hidden from them."
Kokoro shook her head and gestured with her hands, "Not if the barriers take the land like one would a blanket and fold the hidden land so that the two edges are touching as if the fabric between was never there. One could say it is a dimensional pocket with the opening to this land similar to a cloth pocket touching both the kimono and outer edge of fabric, yet if one slips between the edges more room is found."
He inclined his head, "Such barriers would take decades to create and utilize, likely longer. The power requirements would be massive."
She sighed, "Yes, but it must start now. I will not be able to help in all raids or attacks if they increase to multiple ones across all of Japan in the space of the same day, possibly even if there are too many in a single week. It is taxing to reach into time to alter events and my power must recover from each strenuous use."
Sesshomaru filed away the information on this female… one who lived outside of time.
"This Sesshomaru will bring what you have told this one to the Cardinal Lords at the coming meeting."
She gave a brilliant smile that lit up her whole face. "Osoreirimasu,Lord Sesshomaru. When the barriers are ready to be placed, this one and my companions will give what power we can to help fortify them."
Her image wavered and she gave a formal bow, "This one cannot remain on this plane of existence any longer. My sincere gratitude for your time and forbearance my Lord. May your hunting be swift and your kill worthy."
Sesshomaru inclined his head in farewell, hiding his shock that this woman knew the ancient parting of the silver inu clan, for she could not be inu, he highly doubted she was even youkai. Still he gave the traditional response, "May your travels be done in safety and your den be found as a fortress."
Kokoro smiled once more as her image vanished like a strong summer's breeze drives away the morning mist. As he turned to leave for his home shiro Sesshomaru wondered why it was that the guardian carried so many closed wounds, seen in the stitched up kimono as if it were a part of her very form- he concluded it likely was, in addition to one gapping raw cut over the heart that near the end of their exchange began gushing forth a white blue essence as if it had just been cut once more. As he folded into his energy mode of transportation Sesshomaru added this mystery to the enigma that was the Guardian Kokoro.
1613
Within Sunpu Castle
The tatami door slid open, "Greetings, honorable father."
Tokugawa Ieyasu sat before a shogi board contemplating a move. SilentlyTokugawa Hidetada came into the room, sliding the door shut with a quiet tap, and taking a seat on a nearby cushion. He pondered in silence why his father may have called for him. Was there an issue in the court he was unaware of? A hidden plot to be avoided?
His attention refocused on his father as the soft touch of wood coming to rest upon the ornate jade shogi board touched his ears. Ieyasu spoke as he looked over the game, "Have you ever wondered the reason I have lived to such an age, my son? When all of my contemporaries have passed into the next life?"
His father turned to him, awaiting an answer. "I have always thought it was due to your strategic mind, cunning wisdom, and charismatic nature."
A small smile came to his father's face, "Indeed, all you have mentioned has been a part; but there is another. An alliance forged at the behest of my oldest advisor and teacher."
Hidetada ran through all he knew and could think of no one of this description. He must be long dead at this time.
"Ah, I see you do not comprehend. What do you know of the Guardian Kokoro?"
Shock crossed Hidetada face. He had heard of the spirit, "It is said that she is benevolent to all youkai and children of every race, honored father. That she comes in dreams and visions guiding and protecting to those who would listen. Though none have ever seen her physically, Kokoro-sama uses barriers to protect those she chooses."
"Indeed, that is true; though also false. At least one has seen her."
Hidetada made the connection, "You have met her, honored father."
Ieyasu inclined his head, "She came to me when I was but a child. And as my time grows short it has come that you will know this tale of mine and the agreement Kokoro-sama and I forged for my bloodline, for you are to carry it on in my stead. Listen closely now, Hidetada."
Ieyasu straightened and placed his hands within his sleeves. "It began with a kidnapping attempt when I was but nine summers old as I, with retainers and guards, was being brought to this very castle to be a hostage for the Imagawa clan."
With a wry smile he added, "The Oda clan were not pleased with this situation and attempted a covert attack, either to return me into their care or permanently remove me as a hostage, I cannot say which. It was at night on a forested road. As I hid in the forest, for I was given no weapons for all that I had training, I did not see the man coming towards me with sword bared only ten paces away."
Hidetada leaned forward slightly, intrigued. He had never heard this tale, either from his honored father or any vassals.
Ieyasu continued, "Before he could do me harm or take me, a blue barrier came into being around me. He attempted to attack through it and what appeared to be lightning leapt from the barrier and caused him to drop senseless to the ground. A soft female voice whispered on the wind that I would be protected until the retainers and soldiers for the Imagawa clan came for me. Naturally I demanded to have this person show themselves and all I received was a soft laugh. She was called Kokoro, she told me, and I would see her the night I was safely in my room at Sunpu Castle. I heard the guards coming and the barrier faded away before their torches came into range of my sight.
Pausing to pour a cup of fragrant green tea from a nearby stand, Ieyasu took a sip before he continued, "Some days later, the first eve that I was within these walls alone in my room, she appeared…"
Takechiyo gave a soft sigh as he lay down upon the futon. It was glorious to be able to sleep on something comfortable after the days upon days of travel. Suddenly, he glimpsed a blue light from the corner of his eye and he jolted upright as the scene from the forest flashed through his mind. He stared in awe at the woman kneeling by his bedside.
Her faded black hair lay loose and long all around her frame as it waved in a breeze he did not feel. She was transparent and her kimono was rich in blues with touches of pink and purples ,though marred with gashes sown closed and even a cut wide and deep over her heart. But it was her eyes that caught and held his attention for they were as blue as the sea with no black center or white to be found.
She lightly bowed her head, "Greetings Takechiyo-san, this one is called Kokoro. Well met, I am pleased you arrived safely to this shiro."
He fell back on the manners of his station, "Well met, Kokoro-sama. This one thanks you for your protection during the attack. What would you ask for in return for your gesture?"
Smiling she answered, "Ah, your negotiation training is already bearing fruit. I would like you to consider a bargain. Something gained and something given so no debt rests between us. Would that suit you?"
He hesitated before getting up from his futon and going to kneel by a nearby table, watching as she shifted to once more face him. Struck by how graceful her movements were, even as her hair never ceased to move, it was only after as soft clearing of her throat that his mind snapped back to the question she asked. "I would rather no debt, but what could you gain from me? I am only a hostage and but nine summers old. There is little I could offer you."
"Yes, you have little now, but in the years to come that will change. This bargain is to be decades in the making."
Takechiyo was wary about what a spirit was willing to wait so long for, but he owed it to her to at least hear what she had to say, "Very well, what would you desire?"
Her gaze intensified and focused sharply on his eyes, "I want protection for the youkai of this land. A mutual live and let live policy so that the holy humans will have no recourse to eradicate an entire race."
He barely kept his jaw from dropping, "How is that anything that I can give you?!"
A sly grin came to her face, "Many years from now, when you have a new name, you will have the ability to keep such a deal and I wish to gain your word of honor now that you will agree to it."
Looking down at his fisted hands, he asked, "What would I gain from making this deal?"
"Hmmm. I will be an advisor and teacher to you in your dreams as the decades pass, if you so wish. I would even give you information of what your enemies are conspiring about, if you so desire." She gave a gesture and a barrier flickered to life around him once more before fading away, "Perhaps you would consider protection in dire times and health for a long life also worthy of the deal."
His mind spun with all that she offered, all that she would give to protect the demons, "Why? Why do you defend and give such for them?"
A soft gentle smile came to her lips, "I was friends and allies with many youkai in my mortal life, and while they are capable of great cruelty, so too is there great kindness within them. I would not see them vanish from this earth if it is within my power to stop it.
"I bargain that when you have unified this land that you set up a live and let live policy, not endorsing a mass hunting for the youkai as the holy monks and mikos will desire, rather allowing the youkai to fade from human sight and memory. In return, I will help and guide you as you walk into your destiny and, should they keep the bargain, I will watch over your descendants for several centuries."
Takechiyo's mind raced with what she said, "…unified this land…" That had been his ambition for several years now and to know that it was possible…well, he could see the value in what she was offering. It would be a boon, a hidden shield of protection in the coming years. All from one deal…
"Yes. I will agree to the bargain."
"Upon your word of honor?"
"Upon my word of honor as Matsudaira Takechiyo, future unifier of Japan."
"And upon my word of honor as Kokoro, Guardian from beyond Time."
A brilliant smile came to her face as she gave a light laugh, "I am so pleased you agreed! You will likely not see me again on the mortal plane, but I will visit your dreams as the years move by." Suddenly she was right in front of him, her body partially within the table as she kissed his forehead and a rush of heat swept through his body. "Healing and protection for the coming years. Live well Ieyasu-kun, yours will be a life that is remembered through the centuries!"
With those final words she faded away and Takechiyo sat by the table for a long time thinking about what had just happened before returning to his futon to rest. His last thought was, 'Ieyasu-kun…I'll remember that name.'
Hidetada sat in stunned silence after his honored father's tale was done as Ieyasu calmly sipped his tea. Finally he looked to his father, "Will she do for your descendants what she has done for you?"
"Not to the degree she has done for me. Kokoro-sama said she would watch, perhaps occasionally guide or protect my legacy, but that it would largely be within the coming hundred years. Then she would fade from the knowledge of my descendants, with very little interference from her, after that time."
Hidetada absorbed this before also pouring a cup of tea. After a sip, he inclined his head, "I will guard the bargain in the coming years and tell it to my successor that it may be passed through our line as the seasons pass.
"Though I would ask if I shall see Kokoro-sama myself or if she will only speak in dreams to me?"
Ieyasu's lips inclined slightly just as a soft clack came from the shogi board. Hidetada's head snapped around and saw that a gold general had been shifted forward on the opponent's side. Ieyasu looked over the board examining his next move as he mused, "I doubt you will see her in anything but dreams. But you may find she is often closer than you realize."
As his father lifted a silver general to counter the advancing gold general, Hidetada took another sip of tea and smiled as soft feminine laughter whispered through the air, "Indeed."
1688
The Western Land's Citadel
The four Cardinal Lords and their High Generals sat around the table each with tea in their hands as the meeting on the barriers came towards an end. The aides sat behind their respective lord with ink and parchment inscribing all that was said.
Lord Shin of the South spoke, "Finally, the humans seem to be ignoring the preliminary barriers. Likely the result of the kitsune spells added to the weaving of the protective shields. It is pleasing to see it already producing results."
Lord Katashi of the North inclined his head, "Agreed, though the barriers are still weak to the spiritually aware mortals, but those without reiryoku are as blind as moles to the changes of the land."
"We need more power to make them all permanent and able to withstand an assault." Lord Koga huffed, "It will take centuries for them to be impervious if we have to work on strengthening them at the same time as they are being attacked with reiryoku by the humans."
"Perhaps this one and my companions can help with the issue of power, Lord Koga." The voice suddenly spoke from near the windows opening onto the gardens as a feeling of immense power made itself known to all those in the room. The generals had all tensed with many going for weapons before Sesshomaru spoke, "Greetings, Guardian Kokoro. This one welcomes you to the Western Citadel. May you find rest from your hunting within my ancestral den."
Kokoro gave a deep formal bow, "You honor this one with protection; may your den be a haven of peace and rest all your days."
It startled all to hear the traditional greeting of an inu lord to an ally from the Lord of the West, even more so when the spirit, who did not appear to be youkai at all, gave the correct response. For those who had never seen the guardian before, all were interested in her appearance, from her long flowing hair to the simplistic floral design of pink and purple blossoms upon her blue kimono to the open cut over her heart and the faded gashes sewn together across her form. But as always, it was her eyes that stood out to all there- a blue so deep as can only be seen in the vast expanse of the sky or the depths of the sea.
Lord Koga broke the brief silence, "Lord Sesshomaru mentioned your offer, but we did not hear from you since that time. How would you go about adding the power now that the spells have already been cast? You are not youkai, your power may not work with ours."
She smiled as she drifted elegantly toward the table coming to stand between High General Hideaki of the West, who sat to the right of Sesshomaru and Lord Shin. They each shifted to the side and she knelt by the table with her hands folded together in her lap. "I and my companions are gifted in barriers, both the making and breaking of them. We will have no issues adding our abilities to yours. Though we will likely only be able to do so once every decade for the larger barriers. The cost will be draining for all of us."
"And the smaller barriers?" Lord Katashi asked.
A smile came to her lips, "Much more manageable. We will likely be able to do three to four every decade rather than just a single large one."
"Hn. We shall discuss the order then and arrange a time that is suitable for all involved." Came Lord Sesshomaru's cool tones.
Kokoro inclined her head, "Once you have decided simply speak aloud my name and I will turn my eyes to your location for the list and times though I will not be able to manifest in time so soon after this visit."
Lord Shin shared a concerned look with his general before turning towards her. "Should this one and the lords be concerned with your ability to see any who speak your name, Kokoro-sama?"
She shook her head, "I rarely linger when my name is mentioned, only to ascertain that the one calling is not in danger before moving on. I would not wish to cause concern in your affairs in regards to myself."
Lord Katashi's eyes narrowed, "And what of your companions, should there be concern for their abilities?"
A knowing smile slide onto her lips, "Well spotted Lord Katashi, my companions are not so benign as myself. They rarely listen and will do as they please, but be assured they will not give the knowledge they gain to others." She gave a soft laugh, "They are more inclined to horde it for themselves should they ever need it."
There was a brief pause as that knowledge sank in. With many making plans to be much more circumspect in speaking of Kokoro-sama, before Lord Sesshomaru broke the silence, "This one wishes to know what reasons you have to protect youkai and offer assistance in the barriers as you have."
She opened her mouth to answer then winced as she flickered in their view. "My companions will not allow for that answer to be given. I can stay no longer on this plane."
Standing she gave a deep bow to all the lords before giving another to Sesshomaru as she gave the traditional parting words for a guest of the silver inu clan. "There is no fault to be found in your den, my rest within its walls have been filled with peace."
Sesshomaru inclined his head, "May your hunting be with great success and your skills strengthened until next we meet."
As soon as his words were spoken she was gone, the great feeling of power dissipating and leaving the air crisp like it is after a rainstorm.
"Well, I've got to say she's quite the woman!" Koga laughed, "To bad she's a spirit and not flesh and blood!"
Sesshomaru closed his eyes and held in a sigh, there was the uncouth wolf he had been expecting all through the meeting. He had thought Koga had matured in the last century. Apparently not enough.
"Hn. If nothing else needs be discussed, this Sesshomaru concludes this summit and calls for the next to be in a year's time to discuss the barriers and order needed for them to be strengthened."
"Agreed."
"Works for me."
"Suitable."
Inclining his head, Sesshomaru left the hall to ensure the preparations for the feast, given in honor of the lords before their departure the next day, was proceeding without delay.
1760
The Night of the Spring Equinox
The castle's receiving room was full. All four Cardinal Lords were there, three with their respective mates, along with other prominent court, military, and governing youkai. It was the mating night for the Lord of the West's daughter to her chosen. Many did not agree with this mating, for Lord Sesshomaru did not betroth his daughter for political strength nor did he seem to object to his daughter mating a kitsune rather than another inu to keep the bloodline pure. There were rumors that he had allowed Lady Rin herself to chose her mate, which for a daughter of a Lord, shocked many of the higher youkai. Still, they were here to witness the initial bond forming.
The hands were linked with both a ceremonial cord and their forming bond, as the couple lit up, their auras coming out to merge together. Lady Rin's was a deep burgundy orange, whereas General Shippo's was a fiery blue. The display was beautiful and when their powers faded back into their bodies they turned to face the audience as Jaken announced to all, "I now present before all youkai here, the General Shippo and Lady Rin as mates bonded for life!"
"We greet the new couple, may their days together be blessed." Came the spoken response of all present. Before Jaken could then direct the group to the grand dining hall a sweet but clear female voice spoke up, "My greetings and blessings to the new couple. May your days be full of joy and your nights full of love."
Many youkai jumped or hissed in surprise, a powerful presence was suddenly in the room. The guards tensed, swords at the ready, as all followed the voice to one of the windows open to the night sky. There in the light of the moon stood a woman, her outline translucent as if she stood not fully on the mortal plane. She wore an elaborate blue kimono with an intricate array of pink sakura and purple suiren flowers across the fabric, which highlighted her glowing blue eyes as her black hair floated behind on an unseen breeze, and she smiled at the gathered group. Those who had seen her before noted that the sewn cuts had fully faded away and could not be seen on her kimono, particularly with the many colors to hide where they had been, though ever unchanged was the cut slashed across her heart. Many who saw it wondered if this was the wound that killed Kokoro-sama when she lived in mortal time.
"Kokoro-sama." Came the whisper from Lord Koga and suddenly the room was rustling as people moved and whispered. Why had the guardian spirit shown up here? As she glided forward toward the dais with the shocked couple, all moved aside to let her pass. She came to a stop just below the dais, next to the Lord Sesshomaru and his High General Hideaki, Shippo's father. She ignored both youkai and they simply watched the Guardian, the former placidly and the latter curiously, as she looked up at the couple. "I am pleased that you have found one another, dear ones." Her smile became sad and her voice wistful as she continued, "It is truly rare to find and mate with one's soul mate. I am delighted for you both."
The room hushed at that statement…this couple- an inu and a kitsune were soul mates! This was a very good match then, and even those who had naysaid this pairing could not do so anymore.
General Shippo gave a bow, "You honor us with your presence here, Kokoro-sama."
Lady Rin added, "Shippo-kun and Rin thank you for your blessing, Kokoro-sama."
She simply smiled at them, "I would not have missed your mating, dear ones, you have always been close to my heart." The couple shared a surprised look and Lord Sesshomaru flicked a sharp glance at her, but Kokoro-sama continued speaking as she looked over the gathered group. "Also all the Lords are here, it was a good time to meet once more, but," Here she laughed and it rippled through the room, relaxing all who heard it. "I will not speak of business at such a joyous time. Now." She clapped her hands as she looked at the couple, "It is customary to offer a gift to the wedded couple. I was uncertain of what to give you both, so I offer a boon instead."
She paused before spreading her hands as her eyes flared a brilliant blue, "You may ask of me anything you wish and, if it is in my power to do so, I will grant it to you."
Again whispers spread through the room. What an offer! Many were clearly jealous of the potential that the new couple had at their fingertips. Why had it been offered to them? What would they request? Power, wealth, strength?
Shippo and Rin stared at Kokoro-sama in utter shock. Finally Shippo looked over at Rin and as she met his gaze he saw in her the same confusion. What should they ask for?
Shippo turned back to look at the shimmering woman before them, "You do us a great honor, Kokoro-sama, but…" Here he floundered at a loss for words, which for a kitsune was rare indeed. Rin continued his thought. "But Shippo-kun and Rin are both happy and content as we are. We cannot think of what to ask for."
Kokoro-sama tilted her head as a small smile came, "Nothing at all? From either of you? Shippo-kun, no desire for enhanced illusions or stronger foxfire? What of a gift of weaponry and tactics? Or lore of the kitsune clans from the ages past? Rin-chan, no wish for beautiful and exotic flowers? What of a deeper knowledge of healing and herb craft or an enhanced defense and fighting capability?"
Sesshomaru and Hideaki were now regarding Kokoro speculatively, could she truly give what she offered? Rin took Shippo's hand and gave a little tug, when he looked over at her she simply tilted her head and smiled at him. He grinned and nodded.
"You seem to know our interests well, Kokoro-sama. Perhaps, you would do us the honor of choosing what you feel is best for us? Though," he muttered, "stronger foxfire or better illusions are very tempting."
Kokoro-sama giggled and Shippo flushed that she had caught his words. "Very well, if that is what you wish."
"It is." They both replied.
They watched as Kokoro-sama surveyed them, moving her head from side to side. "Hmmm, now that I can see you clearly on the mortal plane, I may have just the gift, but I will need some components from you to complete it."
She floated up to stand before them on the dais and held out both of her hands palm up, one facing each of them. "I will need five drops of your blood and then you will need to flare your auras once more."
They looked at one another, communicating silently before they both used their claws to make a cut on the tip of their right forefingers. The room was silent as all watched in rapt attention.
Five drops fell toward each of the open palms and blue-white light flared from her hands. Her power forming orbs over each palm as the red drops spun and floated within it. Her eyes were now too dazzling for them to look at but they heard her say, "Bring your powers out, dear ones. This will not take long."
Orange and blue powers lit up around them once more as Kokoro-sama moved her hands closer to each of them and said only, "Come."
The orbs and the blood within them vibrated at her command and slowly a trickle of each of their powers slipped away from them and mingled with the orb, though a thin line still connected them to both Rin and Shippo. Gradually their recent mating bond also flared to life and all could see it was a thick red rope with their powers mingling in and around it.
"Blood for heart, power for body, and bond for soul." Came the singsong voice of Kokoro and two thin red threads slid from the bond and connected it to the orbs in her hands. She brought the two orbs close to her chest, leaned over them, and two crystal tears slid down her cheeks to land in each of the orbs, "Tears for wounds." She breathed a blue tinted breath over them, "Breath for life." And then the orbs started to grow both a deeper blue and a brighter white until they were quivering with suppressed power. All could feel the weight of power she was putting into those spheres as she ended in a near whisper. "Power for defense!"
Suddenly there was a brilliant flash of light that died a moment later. Most of the youkai were left blinking spots out of their eyes as they strained to see what she now carried within her hands.
"Hold out you hands, Rin-chan, Shippo-kun." As they did Kokoro-sama dropped a ring into each of their hands. The one in Rin's hands was an iridescent orange with a thick band and a circular crystal that shimmered an oceanic blue. In Shippo's hands rested an iridescent blue ring with a thin band and with the same crystal only this one shimmered with an inward white glow.
They looked up at Kokoro-sama. She smiled at them, "They are for each other." She waved her hands, "Go on then."
Rin took Shippo's hand and slipped the ring onto his right middle finger. Shippo than did the same for Rin. They both fit perfectly and the colors complemented both youkai. The orange with Shippo's hair and furred tails, and the blue with Rin's silver hair and golden eyes.
"They can never be taken off by anyone other than the one who put them on, dear ones." Kokoro-sama lifted both of their hands into hers as she examined the rings. "These rings have several abilities. They act as a beacon should either of you be hurt or unconscious and unable to communicate with one another. No barrier in the world will be able to block you from finding your mate for these rings will always lead you to one another. Also should you be injured, not a scratch mind you, but a mortal or fatal wound these rings will enhance your healing a hundred fold. Still," she smiled at them, "try not to be decapitated, yes."
They both laughed with her before Kokoro-sama set their hands within one another's as she covered them with hers. "Finally, should you be in true grave danger a barrier will come up to protect you. As you may have noticed, all of these abilities overlap. The rings themselves will choose the method for your best protection. It is my hope that you will never be in need of all of the defenses. Still they will keep you safe, though I give you this warning, should one of you be in prolonged danger these rings will take energy from the other mate and partially from myself to protect the one in need. I do not know how long they will last, but afterwards they will need time to rest and recharge, as you yourselves would."
Finally she smiled at them as she released their hands and stepped back, "They have a few other minor abilities that are for you to find out together. Best wishes and blessing to you both Shippo-kun and Rin-chan."
Shippo and Rin both gave her a deep bow, gratitude in their eyes. She gave them the best gift- protection for one another.
"Rin and Shippo-kun are very, very pleased with this. It is a wonderful gift!"
"We thank you from the bottom of our hearts Kokoro-sama. This is the perfect gift for us."
"I thought it might be. I am pleased that you are happy with it."
Turning Kokoro motioned to Jaken, "I believe I interrupted you early Master Jaken. Please forgive this one for that."
Jaken shook his head, "There is nothing to forgive, Kokoro-sama. I will announce it now."
Looking over the assembled youkai he loudly proclaimed, "The banquet in honor of Lady Rin's and General Shippo's mating is set within the formal dining hall. Please follow the servants to the room."
As the youkai began to make their way out of the room many were talking of the gift the new couple had been given. Those rings sounded like powerful artifacts to be able to give such abilities to the wearers. Though, those who knew either Rin-chan or Shippo-kun said that it was truly a fitting gift for they loved one another deeply.
The four Lords, their High Generals, and the couple all stayed in the room until the last of the other guests left.
The new mates were the first to approach Kokoro.
"Kokoro-sama, Rin would be very pleased if you joined us for the banquet tonight."
Shippo nodded in agreement and she smiled at them both. "I will not be able to stay for long, but perhaps I may join you there momentarily for a brief time of celebration."
Impulsively, Rin-chan hugged her. While she looked surprised, Kokoro-sama hugged Rin back as her face lit up with pleasure. "Again, congratulations to you both. I cannot tell you how happy I am for you. Live and love for eternity, dear ones."
As the couple left the four Lords and their High Generals came towards her. High General Hideaki was the first to speak, "I also thank you Kokoro-sama for the gift you have given to my son and new daughter. It eases my mind to know that should they ever be in danger they will have such protection with them."
She looked at him and smiled, though all could see the sad, wistful light on her face, "It pleases me as well, for of all that I have watched over, they are some of the dearest to my heart."
"This one also gives you his thanks for your gifts to his daughter and her mate, Kokoro-san. Though this Sesshomaru is curious as to why they are so dear to you?" All could hear the quiet threat behind his question. Kokoro looked over at him for a moment, before looking out a nearby window as she answered, "That would be because for a brief time they were my children too."
For a moment all were stunned in disbelief.
"Explain." Lord Sesshomaru's tone was now glacial.
Kokoro turned back to them and simply looked over the group of eight males before her, such a variety of youkai, but all powerful in their own right. "I was not always as I am now, my lords. There was a time when I too walked this earth in a mortal shell. I met Shippo-kun in my travels, and later Rin-chan when my path crossed with yours, Lord of the West. They became like my own children…for a time."
Hideaki broke the silence her wistful words had brought, "Shippo has never mentioned this, I am sure I would have remembered if he had."
She threw him an amused, but tired look, "I did not expect him to. He was young and I did not go by the name Kokoro when I walked this plane. That name was given to me by an old friend after I saved their only son in this form over two centuries ago, the youkai I helped learned of it, and so it is now my name."
"Even should the children not remember, this Sesshomaru would not have forgotten should our paths have crossed as you claim they did." He watched with a predatory stillness for her answer looking to trap her in her own words.
Kokoro closed her eyes and gently folded her hands together contemplating, before she gave a sigh, "No, my lord, you and the children would not know me, for that time has been removed from history. I bargained for the many unnatural deaths of that time to be reversed and in exchange they took me from history. Time for time, memory for memory, life for life. You would not remember. I am one of only three that still does."
They all froze at her words. What she had told them was like nothing they had ever heard of, or even contemplated. Who must she have bargained with for them to rewrite time?! It would have to have been a Kami, but which one? And how many deaths would cause someone to make such a bargain?!
"Nani?!" Koga burst out. "Why would you ever do such a thing, Kokoro-sama!?"
"Because by my own mistake did I set into action the course of history that took so many lives and drove so many mad." Her eyes flared with blue fire as most stiffened at her words, though she was focused on the Wolf Lord. "Oh, it was not meant to cause such devastation, I sought to help, but," she shook her head. "I was so young and foolish then, and caused much harm. Years later, I had the chance to change it all, while still allowing many to remember what they had learned and keep what they gained. So I took the opportunity, returned many to this plane of existence, before I was taken from it."
"That is a high price to pay simply to fix a single mistake." Lord Shin, a golden eagle daiyoukai, spoke softly.
A cynical half smile formed on Kokoro's face and many there thought it looked wrong to see it upon her face. "Tell me Lord Shin, your land has perhaps half the population of lower youkai and perhaps three-fourths the amount of higher youkai that can be found in Lord Sesshomaru's land yes?"
He inclined his head, "This is true, Kokoro-san."
She turned to Lord Katashi and Lord Koga, "And would you both say that you have perhaps a quarter more of the lower youkai and a quarter less of the higher youkai than in Lord Shin's land?"
They each looked at their High Generals before turning back to her and nodding, as Lord Koga responded, "Hai, that sounds about right Kokoro-sama."
She then looked back over at Lord Shin, "In less than half a decade the entire population of lower youkai in each of your territories were cut in half, perhaps two-thirds is a more accurate count. And at least a quarter or more of the higher youkai in all four territories were wiped out or driven mad or enspelled in that same time span."
None of the Lords spoke, what she had just told them painted a horrific mental picture. Such a large loss of life would have devastated their populations. It would have been difficult, if not nearly impossible to regain those numbers had the holy humans started to hunt them as Kokoro-san had warned them about so many years ago. She than added softly, "Youkai as a race would have been removed from the land completely in less than five hundred years if I had not made the bargain." She looked out the window once more as she continued, "Even then I would not leave the survival of the youkai race up to chance; it is why I have intervened so much these last two hundred years." Her eyes were a fierce flashing blue as she turned to them. "I will take your race safely as far as I have the ability too. That was my vow and it will be upheld."
There was a profound silence and some looked to have many questions they wished to ask, but Kokoro suddenly winced and her image wavered as it had once before. With a sigh, her form solidified again, "My companions are not so pleased I have given you this information, ask me no questions of the time that is no more. I will not be able to answer."
The Lords shifted before Lord Sesshomaru spoke moving towards business, "This one imagines that you wish to impart some knowledge that is needed to us, Kokoro-san."
"Hai, my lord. But I also wish to inquire after the barriers. They are nearly perfect, but they must be utterly impenetrable by 1800. I wish all youkai to be behind the barriers before then. It will give time for the humans to believe you are only legend, and thus they will not be able to exploit you."
The Lord Katashi, a dragon youkai, scoffed, "They are too weak of a race to exploit us, Kokoro-sama."
She turned a heavy frown on him. "Do not be so quick to judge Lord Katashi. Have I not just said the whole race of youkai would have been wiped from history in less than two centuries? The humans begin to advance rather rapidly in the next two and a half centuries. It could be an issue if they get their hands on ways to control youkai, even if it is just the lower youkai." Kokoro shook her head before continuing, "There is an agreement in place with the Tokugama Shogunate, but in 1860s the Emperor will take back his throne and power. I do not want the youkai caught in that power struggle either."
Lord Koga frowned, "Why not? A fight would be a good thing from some of the younger youkai. And, as you said, we have an agreement with the Tokugama Shogunate. The leader is likely to call on that, isn't he?"
"An agreement to a mutual cease fire. The youkai lords control the population under their territories and gradually pull away from human contact; while the human leaders do not give the monks and priestesses the power and money to attempt a mass extermination of all youkai. The current leader of that time may try to coerce youkai to help him stop the Emperor from taking back control, and if monks and priestesses still have the power and knowledge it may be possible for him. That is why I want all youkai safely behind the barriers."
"This one does not like the idea of hiding in the shadows, Kokoro."
She sighed, "Youkai need to avoid humans for at least a hundred more years, possibly longer. Once the youkai are no longer a threat, I believe the spiritual powers will die off. There will be no need for them anymore, as long as no youkai attacks a human and no human lives too near a youkai saturated area."
"And what shall we do when this time comes?" Lord Shin asked.
Kokoro gave a half-smile, "My hope is that once this has occurred and youkai have found a way to mask themselves to the humans they will be able to mingle once more and, perhaps, work together with humans in the guise of humans themselves."
"It is a partially reasonable plan, though this one will still keep spies among the humans during those years."
"I would expect nothing less. As long as the humans cannot sense them, you could theoretically allow any youkai to mingle during those years. But you will need to find ways of masking your youkai aura for that to be possible." She shook her head, "That will be difficult for most higher youkai, who have both a large amount of power and have never needed to hide it so fully. For the lower youkai it may be impossible if they are not given a talisman of sorts to suppress their youkai."
The four lords looked at one another before Lord Sesshomaru tilted his head, "Hn, then our business is concluded at this time. Your knowledge and advice will be taken under advisement, Kokoro-san. We will ensure that all the youkai are within our borders and the barriers fully enacted in less than four decades. Now, let us move to the banquet hall at this time and join the feast."
Kokoro glanced at him before giving all four lords a light bow, "Food and merriment is a good way to finish off this night. Until I next see you, may your paths be straight and your wisdom keen."
All four lords gave a nod in recognition of her words as they moved towards the doors.
1895
Eve of the Last Blue Moon
Koga paused as he left his office hearing the running of little feet in his direction. He had an instant to brace himself before his three youngest pups barreled into his legs giggling. Blue and green eyes looked up at him, "Papa! We can stay up tonight, right? It's a Blue Moon! We get to be with the pack tonight celebrating, right? Right!?"
He laughed and ruffled their hair, "Of course! I did promise, didn't I?"
Megumi, his youngest by five minutes, buried her face in his hakama, "Will you play Hide and Hunt with us, Papa?"
"Hmmm." He playfully glanced at the ceiling as she and her brothers tugged on his clothes, "Please, Papa! Please!"
He gave them a fanged grin, "One game before dinner. One … two … three … four …"
They raced away, their voices bright with laughter and their scent filled with happiness. As he leaned against the wall, power bloomed at his side. Snapping his head around he saw Kokoro-sama. She smiled, "It brings joy to my heart that you are so content in your life, Lord Koga."
His head cocked to the side as what was said the last time they met flashed through his mind. Intuitively he made a leap and guessed, "We knew each other, didn't we? In the time that is gone, we were allies, weren't we?"
A soft smile lit her face, "Yes, allies, and I considered us friends. Your pack was very welcoming to me. I am happy to see you so settled and contented, with a mate and many pups." A playful side-glance was tossed in his direction as she smirked, "Ayame-chan has been good at settling your wild nature, Koga-kun."
A burst of laughter left him, even as he noted the terms of affection she called them both, "Aye, Kokoro-san, I can't imagine my life with any other. She's a good balance for me."
"Good. She was a sweet girl. I'm glad you kept your promise to her."
A gentle smile came to his face, "Yeah, me too."
A soft sigh left Kokoro-san and Koga noticed that her kimono was even more decorative this time then when he last saw her. It was now a lovely scene with purple suiren flowers resting in a pond near a flowering pink sakura tree as the blue kimono background mimicked the sky, only marred by the ever present gash over her heart. "I wished to give you some information to pass on to the other lords when next you meet."
"Alright, what's changed?"
"The last of the humans with reiryoku powers have died. The lines with the ability have gone dormant."
He grinned, "That's great! We'll be able to blend in easily now."
"Be careful that you don't cause the powers to come back by being blatant with your abilities in the human world. Even raising your aura in a threatening way too near a human with latent powers could start to bring them to the surface."
"Hai, I'll let the other lords know when we meet next year."
She smiled at him, "My thanks. And a word of warning: remove any assets that you wish to keep from the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 40 years. Let nothing that you care about be within those cities or the surroundings areas within a circumference of 20 kilometers."
Koga frowned, "Can you tell me why that will be necessary?"
She looked away down the corridor, "There will be two attacks and I will not be able to stop it, but I can give warning of it at least."
He nodded, "I'll pass that on as well. Thank you for the forewarning, Kokoro-san."
She waved a hand, "It is the least I can do." Looking back at him she smiled, "And I believe you have a few pups to find, do you not?"
"You're right about that," he laughed.
"Swift hunting, Koga-kun."
"Safe travels, Kokoro-san."
1945
August 14th
The four Cardinal Lords stood in silence on a mountain ridge overlooking the city of Hiroshima. The devastation was massive, for humans at least. Easily something a powerful youkai with the proper weapon could replicate, but for humans to have created this and to use it on their own kind… well in war it was a sound tactic perhaps, still… "I'm rather glad Kokoro-san warned us about this." Koga murmured.
Shin gave a soft hum, "Yes, but that leads to the question, why did she not prevent it or the second attack from happening if she knew it was to come?"
Lord Daichi, Katashi's son who had taken over after his father fell to an assassination three decades ago, snorted, "What should we care that she did not protect them? They are not under our territory."
"Hn, this one would still hear her answer, to ascertain more of her strategies and mentality." Sesshomaru's eyes never left the hectic city and the circle of ruin within.
"Then it is good that I planned to meet with you all at least once more." Power and a sweet voice came in tandem to the right of the group and as they turned to see Kokoro, one of the first things they all noticed was the deep sadness in her eyes and the frown upon her face. For those who had seen her before, it was noted that her kimono had become even more elaborate then when last they met with a full outdoor scene. A massive blooming sakura tree whose branches trailed within the nearby pond, which was obscured with exquisite purple suiren flowers, covered most of the kimono. On the far side of the pond, a tea house could be seen with three figures sitting around the table, though their faces were not visible. It was all set on a rich blue kimono, which gave the impression of a beautiful sky. The striking kimono nearly camouflaged the fact that the cut over her heart was still there and no closer to being closed then the first time they had seen her so many centuries ago.
She gave a formal bow, "Greeting to the four Cardinal Lords."
"Greetings Kokoro-san." Lord Shin was the first to greet her in turn, with each of the others following.
Sesshomaru immediately asked after the matter they had just been discussing, "Why is it Kokoro, that you did not stop the bombing attacks or even simply protect the land from the effects?"
Turning to look at the city she folded her hands into her kimono sleeves, "Several reasons, Lord Sesshomaru. If I did stop the bombs, it does not mean that the attacks would cease. In fact, Tokyo would have likely been next. If I had simply protected the land or city from the fallout how would that be explained by the humans? The great powers have faded from their memories into myths and legends. It would not be able to simply be explained away by science either."
Tears filled her eyes though they did not fall, "I grieve with my people. I mourn for all the lives lost or hurt or forever changed. But it is not for me to alter such a moment in the history of my nation. It is a tragedy on a massive scale, but it is not one that I would have attempted to change. Nor is it the largest tragedy that this world war has wrought."
"Hn." Sesshomaru inclined his head, "Yet you altered the fate of the youkai. How are we different?"
"My fate has ever been intertwined with the youkai." She smiled gently as she turned away from the city and looked at the lords, "Also it was possible to change your fate over centuries so that history barely felt a ripple of change from the youkai still living and thriving."
Shin's eyes narrowed, "You knew an alternate timeline. One where we were wiped from history and so you knew what could be changed."
She gave a slight nod, "Indeed, Lord Shin. Yes, I knew what would have been, so I strove to change it to what could be... without ripping apart all of time and space in the process."
Looking back at Hiroshima, she gave a deep sigh, "I will guard and watch over your people for another 35 years. Then… then I will rest."
"Nani!?" Koga exclaimed, "But, why Kokoro-san?!"
She glanced at him before looking out once more; "My vow will have been fulfilled then and I am weary after the last few centuries, Koga-kun, though I need no sleep."
Lord Daichi gave a slight bow, "This one thanks you for your help these last few centuries, Kokoro-sama. This one's father was grateful for what you have done for our people."
Kokoro gave a deep bow, "You are welcome, Lord Daichi. I grieve with thee over the loss of thy honored father."
"I thank you."
Sesshomaru gave a nod, "This one also gives his gratitude for your efforts over the centuries, Kokoro-san."
"Indeed, may you find the rest you desire, Kokoro-san, with our thanks for your tireless work." Shin added.
"Agreed!" Koga grinned, "And if you ever find yourself back in the mortal plane come stop by the Eastern Wolf Palace! We'd be please to host you!"
Kokoro laughed as her eyes flared a brilliant blue, too bright and dazzling to view directly as her entire body also began to glow, "My thanks for your gratitude and offers, Cardinal Lords of Nippon. May your territories ever rest in the protection of your might and power. Safe travel and joyous hunting to you all!"
So saying her form vanished into the air and all wondered why the cut on the Guardian Kokoro began to bleed bluish white essence near the start of their conversation, when all save Sesshomaru had never seen it do so before. Glancing briefly once more at the city of Hiroshima, each lord then turned towards their own seats of power to return to their duties and territories.
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