'Frost-Bite'

Answer to some Review Questions:

Yes, Hiei is Yukina's twin brother, they are known as fraternal twins. No they will not meet up for another five hundred and fifty odd years just like in the series but using the current time.

Yes, this is a Kagome and Sesshomaru pairing even if she doesn't realize it yet.

Again yes, Kagome will evidently leave Hiei with a couple when its time to battle Naraku which won't happen for a few years, which started Hiei's own path in life from what we know from the YuYu Hakusho Anime.

Will Hiei and Kagome meet in the future? Have not reached that far in the story.

Be Kind & Review

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{

DISCLAIMER: I do not own Inu Yasha or the Yu Yu Hakusho the Anime/Manga or their characters.

Meanings:

`Thought'

"Speech"

Beast

When you see something like this: "Oh come on… " (Its a word drawn out: Like soooooo)

Chapter 17

Kagome knew some of her issues couldn't be solved in a day. However, she hoped the old inu could give her information with at least a few the most urgent issues about being a mother and finding a safe place to live for the time being. She didn't want Yanagi to think she was taking advantage of her or think she is a bad mother for not knowing how to take care of a baby. With everything thrust upon her, Kagome didn't think she just acted, its something she's always done relying on her instincts before the soul merge. Now, that Kagome had time to think, everything seems so confusing, wondrous and new that she keeps second guessing herself on what concerns her most in life.

Kagome really needed someone to talk to and hoped Yanagi wouldn't mind giving her a few pointers on how to do things involving the baby and cub. Kagome couldn't believe yokai could live so long, never in her wildest dreams did she think to meet someone older than Sesshomaru and it happens to be his second great grandmother what were the odds and even odder was the fact that part of her soul was formed from Yanagi's best friend. With so much knowledge and experience yokai held it was no wonder they are the balance to keeping Earth revitalized. Without them in the future, Kagome could see why the Earth is dying and she couldn't live without them; now that she got to know some of them.

Kagome promised herself, that she would find a way to save the magic, yokai and Earth land spirits. Her mind clearer, Kagome would need to ask Yanagi if she knew of a location that would be safe to live where no one would look for her or want to hurt Hiei. Kagome had took Sango's lessons to heart when it came to letting your guard down. Traversing the countryside with the gang helped her learn a lot about hidden dangers and to cover your tracks. Learning hand to hand combat skills from Toran and Kariudo had been grueling and she would have to keep training to become proficient enough to incorporate new modern moves she'd seen from the future. Kagome needed time, time that word had more meaning than she cared to admit right now.

There were so many questions, wondering if Toran and Rui were alive. Did the Koorime guards believe the story of changing the babes sex with spells, or are they out hunting for the forbidden child. The most pressing on her mind was Shippo. Her heart lurched feeling a tug on it. She hoped he was safe if not she would never forgive herself if she should lose him. Closing her eyes Kagome said a quick prayer for guidance, strength and to keep everyone safe and then praised the Kami for listening. Opening her eyes as she felt someone watching her. Turning her head from the window, Kagome smiled as she watched Yanagi take a seat over at the table facing the beautiful garden she was looking at.

"Come child join this old one for tea." Kagome didn't need to be told twice as she moved to sit on that cushioned pillow that did wonders for her back.

"This one senses you have much on your mind care to share?" Kagome looked at Yanagi wondering if she could tell her everything that's bothering her.

"Oh child I've been around for ages what would a million questions do to this old one but allow her to give advice when its needed." With that how was Kagome to deny her when it appeared Yanagi really wanted to help. Nodding her head she fired away with her questions.

"Yanagi, I'm scared, so many things have been thrust upon my shoulders. I don't know if I can carry such burdens. I'm already trying to fix the jewel, care for my adopted son Shippo and now I'm a mother to not only one but three. How do I get myself into these things." Kagome stated more than questioned when she heard that tinkle of a laugh coming from her table partner.

"Oh my, know wonder you smell of unease. Kami never gives us more than what we are capable of handling Kagome. They know you are strong, wise and caring. It is the reason why they made your soul. Now, one with your beast how do you feel about that?" Yanagi voiced out watching Kagome carefully with concern.

"Um. At first it was a shock to hear someone in my mind speak. When I voiced it to Toran and Kariudo they thought I'd gone crazy." Yanagi chuckled hearing this knowing the cousins attitude well.

"They began to understand the changes in me and started training me with hand to hand combat and helping me with my reiyoku, while we made our way up the mountains. That's when I learned, I have powers of ice and fire. A miko with demonic abilities how odd." Kagome reminded Yanagi of their earlier conversation and dove right in from where she left off.

"I don't know even know if Toran made it out! She told me to run and I did. When I reached ground level, I found one of the guardian frost cub mother killed along with her pups all except one. I couldn't let it die, it wasn't fair, and so I claimed it as well." Kagome's beast Yuki agreed in taking the cub, feeding it had been a challenge but got the cub to eat and drink.

"I can't go back to my pack in fear they will be attacked, I know they can hold their own but Inu Yasha wouldn't understand, if I showed up with a second child in tow. He'd demand that I give Hiei to someone else or abandon him saying, I was already risking their lives with Shippo following but to save and claim a baby. I don't want to think about what Inu Yasha might say or do. I can't risk it." Yanagi understood why the young warrior refused to go to her pack always looking out for everyone else. After drinking tea Yanagi began speaking.

"I understand little one, we will think of something. Now lets go check on your babes. This old woman hasn't held pups in years. I promise no harm will come to Hiei or the cub. His origins are now your own, should anyone ask." Kagome gave a quizzical gaze thinking about what Yanagi said. Like a light bulb turning on in a dark room Kagome understood her meaning. She felt relieved hearing this because if someone asked all she had to do was give them a test of her powers. Kagome wore a true warriors grin.

"Thank you Yanagi, you don't know how much that meant to me. I can put the Koorime behind me and will only tell Hiei his true origins when he's old enough to understand. He has a right to know who he is and what happened." The old inu agreed every pup deserved to know their true origins and who their parents were.

Going over to the bassinet Kagome gently picked up Hiei cooing to him when he opened his dark colored eyes gurgling trying to move his hands from the blanket she covered him in and handing him to Yanagi. She smiled down at the pup enjoying the sounds only a newborn could make as he freed his tiny little hand from the blanket gumming at it wanting food. Kagome went to pick up the baby frost cub a well it needed to be fed and wiped down as well. A thought occurred to her and she asked Yanagi.

"Excuse me Yanagi? By chance do you have a milking flask? I need to feed this little one as well." Yanagi was impressed that the cub was thriving off milk and fish Kagome-chan had been feeding it. Even its eyes were still shut couldn't be more than half a moon old.

"Oh my Kagome-chan he is a little thing. He needs a beasts milk and I'm sure you already know about your milk. I have such a beast that would aid you. For now just feed him how you been and soon it will have plenty of milk." Kagome smiled thanking Yanagi over and over saying if there was ever anything she could do in return, just let her know, and she'd come running. Yanagi laughed as she studied Hiei going into a trance like state.

"Ah such a trouble maker you will be little one. A forbidden child he is, born that of fire and ice. Two opposed energies twined for eternity. Hiei will have a troubled life. His heart and soul is good, yet darkness will ensnare him, but not forever. You my dear heart have a future unwritten. The lord brings a gift for the shikon warrior miko. Do not let your guard down, evil lurks in the shadows ready to turn your soul. Wings of blue will save you." Kagome got the sense that Yanagi just gave her a vision and she knows such things are possible and it good to have a heads up it was just adding more to her plate and she hasn't even finish a portion of it.

"Forgive this old one dear heart. I meant no ill will. It is what I saw in the shadows of the future. Nothing is certain. Your future remains unwritten however, this child will no doubt have a tough life." Kagome nodded her head the message was clear. Kagome watched how Hiei took to Yanagi with ease and Kagome pushed all the negativity away and laughed when her bundle of joy blew spit bubbles making Yanagi laugh as well. After they shared their laughter and settled down Kagome told Yanagi what was on her mind.

"No worries, I've had my share of fortune telling however, your visions I believe and will keep it in mind and to watch my back, I just wish I could save Hiei from this ominous future." Yanagi patted Kagome's hand before picking up her bell calling for a servant to bring refreshments. Handing the babe back to Kagome she set to feed the hungry boy. It only took a few seconds for the babe to find her tit drawing deep suckles after each inhale of breath.

This one may suckle you dry. Yuki spoke and Kagome agreed.

'He just may do that seeing how he drained my left side so quick.' Kagome commented to her beast as she switched Hiei to the other breast.

Kagome asked questions as to what she was just told about her and Hiei's future. She needed clarity hoping Yanagi would give a few perspectives as to what her visions foretold. Yanagi gave Kagome some theories however, she could not see who or what the blue wings belonged too. Even Kagome couldn't come up with why a lord would gift her, gift her with what? Once Hiei finished his meal Kagome burped him. Taking him from her shoulder she marveled at how cute he was. Lost in what she was doing Kagome forgot Yanagi was there watching her make all these funny faces and noises no wonder she was smiling behind her hand.

Having to want to hold him again Kagome gave Hiei back to the old inu to hold. It was nice seeing her so happy. Rising to go get the cub Kagome smiled down at it as it cried for attention. Once she fed the little cub Kagome looked at him carefully taking in its bloated stomach knowing it needed to relieve itself. Pulling out a small clean rag she dampened it with some warm water then cradled the cub on its back in the palm of her hand gently wiping the genitals allowing the cub to relieve itself of urine and feces she continued to do this until there was no more the little cub could push out. Wrapping the little cloth full of waste she stuffed it in the bag she set for dirty diapers.

Kagome needed to name the cub, with her pointed finger she rubbed the cubs tummy soothing it as she turned it over getting a good look at the little thing as he mewed its little cries. The little cubs fur was black as night a silver lightening bolt between its brow what amazed Kagome more was the tuft of silver spiked fur that stuck out like the mane on a horse so soft to the touch but the ends felt like a serrated knife. Taking a gander at its paws where three silver rings marked them with tiny claws and tuft of silver fur on the back side of each paw. Its tail or tails she corrected reminded her of those cat of nine tails, except the cub only had three whip tails each ringed much the same as the paws.

Except the tails felt the same as its mane. Kagome wondered about a name. Taking it all in she thought for a while wondering what it would like to be called, when Yuki spoke up. The frost cub will be quite large in its true form. He undoubtedly will inherit both parents genes making him a strong, loyal and a fierce companion much like Kiara is to Sango. Although, I am not sure what kind of power or powers it may grow to have. He deserves to have a fitting name.

'I have a feeling he will be like ice, thunder and lighting all rolled into one like a stormy weather... That's it Arashi... His name is Arashi it suits him don't you think Yuki?'

A fitting name indeed, you chose well Kagome. Oh Yanagi is speaking to you.

"Oh child have you named that little cub yet?" Yanagi questioned as she watched Kagome examine the tiny cub.

"I just thought of a good name. The cub will be called Arashi he reminds me of a little storm with how his coat is black and silver and he has this lightening bolt between it brow." Kagome exclaimed in happiness. Yanagi smiled handing her a patch of fur to wrap the cub in keeping it snug and warm.

" Arashi, a fitting name indeed, my dear." Kagome smiled this was the easy part, she sighed knowing she had a lot of work to do to become stronger for her little family and her friends.

Kagome began to wrap Arashi in the fur then carefully placing him back in the bassinet. Yanagi watched Kagome tend the cub once she was done she then placed him in the bassinet. Yanagi holding Hiei gave him several kisses to his forehead before giving him back to his mother. She called for servants three bowed to their mistress waiting for orders. Yanagi told one to set a room for Kagome and the babes while another waited for her order which was to take the babes in the bassinet to the guest room. When given the permission they did as their mistress ordered. The third servant remain bowed waiting on his orders.

"Togi, I want you to scout for Namiyo tell him to check the conditions on the trees and if they remain safe then report back to me." With that Yanagi dismissed the servant. Kagome wondered if there were something wrong with the trees. Before she could ask Yanagi spoke.

"Now don't you worry about any of that I always check on my trees. Oh before this one forgets. I know you must have questions about raising young, I will tell you a few things that are important. Mio one of my dearest servants is writing down the what you need to know or what do for Hiei and Arashi. You will learn many things as you bond with your son and cub. Raising pups is hard work and at times very frustrating however, in the end you love them just the same as they continue to grow." Kagome smiled thinking of all the tender moments she shared with Hiei and Arashi.

A thought suddenly struck her. 'What would her mamma think? Would she be happy with the choices I made? Oh mamma.' All the sudden she became melancholy. Oh how Kagome missed her mother. Yanagi immediately embraced Kagome knowing she needed comfort from her sadness.

"There, there dear one, all will be well. I know this is much to take in, but you are like every other mother out there." Kagome sniffled looking up at Yanagi hope shining in her eyes for the answer.

"You are strong and capable just like your mother and hers before her." At the mention of her mother she cried harder.

"I know you miss your mother and family Kagome-chan. You will see them in time. Until then, I hope these old arms offer you comfort." Kagome nodded in Yanagi's Kimono pulling away she wiped her tears. Yanagi smiled down at her with such compassion.

Kagome didn't even think she pulled the old inu into a hug of her own thanking her for being here when she needed someone to hold her. A few minutes later they separated. They talked about everything and nothing at all just enjoying each others company when a servant came in bowing before stating a room had been prepared for her guest. Kagome couldn't refuse Yanagi to stay for the night. It would do her wonders to have a nice hot bath and a bed to sleep in.

Following Yanagi through the halls she spotted a small indoor waterfall flowing behind a lacquered bridge into a pool with colorful koi and carp fish swimming. It was beautiful. Not wanting to slow Yanagi down she hurried her pace as Yanagi told her about the inspiration of the waterfall pond. While living in the yokai world the handsome lord of winter came to court her. After a year of courting Ryouga flew her to the mystic mountains where his ancestral fortress has been hidden behind ancient spells and a blood barrier. A fierce and ancient castle surrounded by stalagmites and waterfalls. Beyond the bone gates the setting had been much like her own home.

Yanagi spoke with such fondness and love for the palace that Ryouga took her on a tour of his home when they came to the gardens they walked over onto the lacquered bridge pulling her close telling her of her beauty, of how he respected her prowess of being a fierce warrior, her gentleness when it came to pack or pups. Ryouga spoke of her loyalty and determination to right the wrong and how he melt with each smile she gave him and how he loved her beyond the moon and stars. That he couldn't live without the banters they spoke between themselves or the moments of just holding her dear. Ryouga had just barely voiced for her to be his mate. Kagome stopped for a second blown away with how romantic Yanagi's mate was only for her to watch Yanagi wipe a tear from her eye.

Pulling the old inu into an embrace Kagome voiced she didn't need to continue if it upset her so. Yanagi smiled at the compassion the miko had, she spoke it was not of sadness but a happiness to share with someone of how her mate loved her so. Kagome could only imagine how it would be if she found someone who loved her like that. Yanagi continued her story how a large carp jumped from the pool onto the bridge both not understanding what happened. They broke apart from the hug Ryouga still holding onto her when he stepped back he didn't know the carp was the culprit for the noise and stepped on it causing him to flounder about pulling her with him as they tumbled over the railing and into the water.

They came up sputtering water while looking at each other before laughing and splashing one another like pups by the end of the night they were mated. Kagome laughed and and joked with Yanagi that story was one to last ages and to have the reminder of their love built was such a beautiful idea. Every once in a while Yanagi would point at a painting or vase making Kagome smile. Continuing down another hall Kagome spotted a servant sitting seiza next to a room that she guessed would be hers for the night. Bowing the servant slid open the shoji paneled door for her mistress and guest.

Yanagi thanked her servant bidding her to leave with a wave of her hand. Walking into the room first she inspected the area finding it acceptable for Kagome. Yanagi peered at Kagome from the corner of her eye as she took in the room. Looking around the room she spotted the bassinet near a raised futon. The room was bigger than her living room in the future. Walking to the bassinet Kagome made sure Hiei and Arashi were still snuggled in sleep which meant she could get a good nights rest until they got hungry again.

"I will have a servant bring a tray of food for you and fresh milk for the cub in a few hours. There is a natural spring just on the other side of that open door to freshen up and a bucket to relieve yourself. I shall see you in the morning my dear." Turning from the open door Kagome reached out and hugged the old inu once more thanking her for all she has done. Patting her on the back Yanagi smiled before leaving allowing Kagome to close the shoji door.

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{

Blinking open her eyes Kagome stared at the unfamiliar ceiling her mind rushing to figure out where she was when she turned her head the cradle in view. There was no need to panic she and the babes are in a safe place with Yanagi. Sitting up Kagome stretched bones popping as she got out from under the covers she stood. Today was going to be a long day, she had to make the best of it so first thing first morning stretches then take care of the young. A few minutes later Kagome heard cooing and babbling sounds alerting her Hiei was awake.

Finishing up on her stretches she went to the cradle making funny faces while talking to Hiei and the mewling cub. Once she fed them Kagome began their exercising their limbs so they wouldn't become stiff or cramped. A knock on the door had Kagome walking to it and sliding it open revealing the servant from yesterday.

"Milady wishes for you join her for the morning meal." Smiling at the servant Kagome felt sheepish for not remembering her name and asked her what it was.

"Suzu (Bell), my name is Suzu lady Kagome now I shall help you dress. Mina will be tending the babes while you are with Milady." Suzu went to the side of the room Kagome never took notice of and slid open the shoji door where a closet hung furs and shelves with items wrapped within.

Suzu Chose five wrapped items then picked up a pair of hard soled slippers karate fighters used; something Kagome remembered from all the posters, magazines and internet sites she's seen and read. Suzu wasted no time in unfurling the items which happened to be a breast wrap, a female koshimaki (waist cloth), sleeveless yukata, matching pants and an obi. Kagome gave herself a quick sponge bath ensuring she didn't smell petting her face dry she reached where Suzu was and begun to dress her like a doll. Once done Kagome put on the slippers, then walked over to the basin and washed and dried her hands before checking on the sleeping babes.

Smiling down at them Kagome allowed Suzu to pull her away to get dressed while Mina came to care for the babes while she was away. Once dressed Kagome was lead to Yanagi who was reading a scroll in another part of her castle with four others seated sipping tea. Kagome suddenly alert with the unknown yokai did her best to remain calm so she would not freak out and make a fool of herself. Suzu announced Kagome then led her to her seat. Suzu bowed to her mistress before leaving. Kagome sat thanking the maid for serving her tea waited until Yanagi was ready to reveal the why of this breakfast meeting.

Yanagi could feel Kagome's unease. Looking to the five individuals sitting down waiting for her to speak. Yanagi looked at everyone but kept her gaze on Kagome a bit longer. With questions within her she introduced her four most loyal vassals. Spy master Haruma, Doi, a forest spirit. Then we have the twins, Yuuhi and Yuuma whom are the last of boulder-vine clan. Kagome took each of them in noting the size and colors of the twins. Kagome understood Doi, she has met another forest spirit protecting Inu Yasha's forest. She didn't know what to make of the spy master or the twins but she did manage a shy smile and bow of the head to all of them.

"I called them here for updates and information since they are free to roam Japan. I have many dens, some are caves above and below ground. I have a few homes in trees. I believe you would call them tree houses in the canopy of several dense forests and the last are caves on island dwellings." Kagome never knew yokai had other dwellings besides their main residence. Yanagi must enjoy traveling.

"My dens are at your disposal Kagome-chan." The look on Kagome's face said it all before she even uttered a word Yanagi cut her off.

"Think of it this way, no matter where you go there is a den you may use for as long as you need it. No need to worry, only pack know of these locations besides each den is heavily protected by ancient spells so no human or yokai can enter." Kagome looked around the table noting the subtle smiles. Yanagi continued.

"The four you see here are the only exception for they maintain the dens when needed." Yanagi watched as Kagome for a moment as she took in all she had said her stormy eyes shined bright along with a smile so wide it must have hurt her delicate face.

"I cannot thank you enough for your hospitality Yanagi. I don't know how to repay for such kindness." Yanagi looked taken back which Kagome thought what she said somehow made Yanagi angry and was about to apologize but Yanagi beat her to it.

"So easily you have forgotten Kagome-chan, you are pack so there is no need to repay me much less thank me it is what packs do for their pack mates." Kagome's face was that of a tomato having completely forgotten about that and was about to apologize again when Yanagi tutted halting Kagome's words. If she couldn't apologize then she'll smile with a nod of understanding.

"I have asked Doi and the twins to escort you to view which den suits you best." Kagome was thankful and she would find a way to repay Yanagi back for all the help and wonderful things she has done for her in such a short time.

"Thank you again... I know you told me not too, but its who I am, Yanagi. I am happy to have your friends err., vassals show me." Kagome sent a smile and nod to each of them knowing her thanks were not needed this time.

Before they could continue speaking there was a sonic boom that shook the castle and the grounds. From the sound of the boom came from the front of the castle. If Kagome thought Koga was fast, the mere image of Yanagi and her master spy disappearing like they did reminded her of one of her favorite anime characters using instant transmission here one second gone the next. Concerned about what may have caused this Kagome followed their ki leading her towards the front of the castle. The closer she got the more she could read the signatures of the yoki that disturbed the conversation.

When Kagome stopped at the doors leading to the front of the castle, she had to choke back a smile when she peered out the doors to find Yanagi nuzzling the demon lord. Much to Kagome's fascination Sesshomaru returned the sentiment all the while holding onto a red and cream colored tail that hid the body of whoever he was holding from tangling further into his silver locks of hair. That bushy tail looked awfully familiar to her. Stepping outside the doors that Kagome was hiding behind she causally walked to get a better view for the demon lords aura was clouding the one she was so focused on finding. With a bit more consternation she sensed it.

"Shippo!" Called out purposefully walking toward the one being that she fought to hate but couldn't find it in her with all the knowledge she has been privy too. Giving the benefit of the doubt she would be civil towards Sesshomaru and find out why Shippo is with him and how did he know how to find her.

To be continued.

I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter.

Japanese Meanings:

Arashi – Stormy also Storm.

Mio – One of Yanagi's dearest servants her name means. Cherry Blossoms or Dream depending on how its written. In Kanji has over one hundred and forty variations to the name.

Ryouga – Is Lady Yanagi's deceased mate. Refinement, elegance and grace. There are over eighty-six variations to the name I chose.

Yuuhi – Setting Sun

Yuuma - Leisurely; True

Haruma – Expert, True

Doi – Mountain or Earth