The queen had been surprised but accepting, immediately pulling the family within the castle walls, intent on providing knowledge and protection.
But it was not to be.
Word had spread of a limitless power, one that could be influenced and controlled, and it hadn't taken long for the shadows to take form, each scrambling for a chance at increasing their strength.
Regardless of the consequences.
Emiko was just glad her girls didn't remember much of their time in the village. It was only supposed to be until the fighting died down, a month at most, but they'd underestimated Naraku's thirst for power—and his ability to manipulate others.
As content as she was to live out her life within the safety of the cottage, and Kagome's barrier, Emiko knew it wasn't what was best for them. Kagura deserved the freedom of the open air, and Kagome—
Kagome deserved to be happy.
She couldn't argue the prince's need for vengeance—his ability to protect his own had been called into question—but his stubbornness rivalled that of the queen, constantly refusing any and all help. It didn't need to be a solo mission, especially with the pattern of the vile spider going to ground every winter.
If nothing else, it would quell the loneliness in the fated pair. But as her daughter's sobs sounded from behind her bedroom door, Emiko was forced to put her foot down.
She stood tall, eyes blazing, and the beast was once again reminded of the warrior within. "If you don't find him this time, don't come back."