Kagome sat by the small, crackling fire in Kaede's hut. The air was thick with the scent of herbal remedies and woodsmoke. Kaede busied herself with grinding herbs, her wrinkled hands moving with practiced precision.
By then a week had slipped by like sand through fingers. Kagome had once been intimately familiar with the rhythms of the Edo period, having lived here most of her life. Now, as she found herself thrust back into this ancient world, she had to re-learn the ways she had once mastered.
The first few days had been a whirlwind of familiar yet forgotten tasks. Whilst moving freely in a Miko garb felt like second nature to her, she struggled with carrying out daily chores. She awkwardly fumbled with the wooden buckets at the well, forgotten where almost everything was located, and re-learned the art of grinding rice. It was as if her hands remembered, but her mind had to catch up.
However, amidst the struggle to blend seamlessly into the fabric of the Edo period, an intriguing and unsettling thought gnawed at Kagome's mind. She meticulously ensured that no one noticed any change in her demeanour, but she couldn't shake the suspicion that lingered just beneath the surface. She had accepted that she was now much further back in the past than when she initially travelled through time. But this realization brought with it a troubling possibility: Was the original Kagome of this time still out there, unaware that an imposter had taken her identity?
She wracked her brain, contemplating all the potential scenarios and outcomes. The uncertainty weighed heavily on her, a constant shadow that refused to dissipate. Her thoughts ran in circles, each more perplexing than the last. The only way to dispel this fear was to seek answers from someone who had become her pillar of support in this confusing time.
With a deep breath, Kagome gathered her resolve.
"Kaede... I've been thinking a lot about how time works," Kagome began hesitantly, stirring the pot in front of her, avoiding Kaede's keen gaze.
"Aye, child. Time is as mysterious as the deep forest, with many hidden paths and unknown creatures," Kaede replied, her one good eye glinting with curiosity. "What brings such thoughts to your mind?"
"Well, imagine if someone were to travel back in time," Kagome said, choosing her words carefully.
"Wouldn't there be another version of that person in the past, living out their life as usual?"
Kaede paused her work and looked at Kagome thoughtfully. "The threads of time are intertwined in ways we cannot fully comprehend. If one were to travel back, it would be as if they are a stone cast into a river. The ripples they create affect the flow, but there is still only one stone."
Kagome nodded slowly, trying to grasp Kaede's words. "So, there wouldn't be another version of that person running around in the past?"
"Nay, there would not. The person here and the person there are the same, affected by different currents of time. They are unique in both places, but always connected," Kaede explained, her voice gentle but firm.
Kagome felt a sense of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Kaede. I guess I just needed to hear that."
Kaede smiled softly. "The flow of time is a wondrous thing, Kagome. Trust in your path, and it will lead you where you are meant to be."
Letting a genuine smile take their place on her lips, Kagome embraced the warmth from the fire. That was all the assurance she needed. Giving the pot one last stir, she blew some air to shoo away a piece of stray hair that had fallen from behind her ear.
"Dinner is ready." She exclaimed proudly. Grabbing two bowls and serving both herself and Kaede a portion, she huffed at the older lady who continued griding herbs. "Kaede, I will help you finish those up after dinner. You must eat now."
Kaede let out a soft, cracking chuckle, the sound like dry leaves rustling in the wind. "Ye have certainly become quite bossy," she said, her eye twinkling with amusement.
Kagome blinked in surprise, then laughed nervously, a blush creeping up her cheeks. "I guess I've had to be more assertive lately. It's just... I know I haven't been the easiest person to be around, and well, Kikyo," She said the other Miko's name with slight distaste, "She's doing well, and I don't want to disappoint you."
With a knowing smile, Kaede nodded. She understood Kagome's feelings of inferiority all too well. The villagers' praise often shifted from the younger Miko-in-training to Kikyo, leaving Kagome in the shadows of doubt and self-pity. It was a difficult position for the young woman to be in, especially given the weight of expectations that hung over her.
Kaede had attempted many times to cheer up the younger Miko, offering words of encouragement and gentle guidance. She was determined to continue this effort until the end of her days. Seeing Kagome's growth and resilience in the last week had brought a sense of fulfilment to the old priestess.
Despite the challenges, Kaede felt a deep sense of gratitude. She once feared she would miss witnessing Kagome's transformation into a confident, capable woman. But that fear was all for naught. It was a privilege to watch her learn, adapt, and embrace her role with courage and determination.
Kaede's eyes softened as she spoke, her voice filled with warmth. "Kagome, ye have come far, and I have no doubt that ye will continue to grow. Trust in yourself, child, for ye possess a strength that is truly remarkable."
Kagome smiled, feeling the reassurance in Kaede's words. With the priestess's unwavering support, she felt more confident in facing the challenges that lay ahead.
As Kagome continued to find her place in the village, time passed swiftly. By the end of her first month back in the past, she had managed to achieve a notable feat. Though the support she garnered was limited to a few, it was enough to count on one hand. Among them was a young couple navigating the early stages of their newlywed life.
Their story was a twist of fate. Tsuru, a new wife who once led a life of nobility, had fallen deeply in love with a metalworker. Besotted and determined, they planned to elope in secrecy. Fortunately, Tsuru's mother's love and quick thinking saved them from being hunted down and killed. A simple ruse allowed them to slip into the night's shadows and seek refuge in Kagome's village. They arrived during a time when Kagome's popularity was waning, but thankfully, they did not contribute to the baseless disdain directed at her. Instead, they chose to mind their own business and start afresh.
One early morning, during a run to fetch water from the well, Kagome encountered Tsuru. The young woman, usually quiet and demure, appeared deathly pale. Concerned, Kagome quickly ushered her to sit down. A quick examination and some gentle probing led Kagome to pinpoint the cause of Tsuru's ghastly condition – pregnancy. Clearly unaware of her situation, Tsuru listened intently as Kagome explained that she was experiencing morning sickness.
Tsuru's eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and relief. "I am with child? I had no idea... Thank you, Kagome. I was so worried something was terribly wrong."
Kagome smiled reassuringly. "It's perfectly normal, Tsuru. Morning sickness is common during the early stages. I'll help you through this, don't worry."
Placing a gentle hand on her stomach, Tsuru's eyes brimmed with tears. "I am forever in your debt, Kagome." To which Kagome quickly denied, but Tsuru paid her no mind. "When we first arrived here, we quickly knew the others didn't see you in kind light, but Han and I never spoke a word in your defence. Instead, we chose to keep to ourselves like cowards and here you are, helping a coward like me."
Feeling uncomfortable and wanting to be anywhere but here, Kagome let out a deep breath. "Tsuru, you were already going through a difficult time, and I can only imagine the backlash you might have faced if you sided with me on your first day here." With a re-assuring pat on the shoulder, Kagome smiled. "You did what you had to, but I won't let you off the easy a second time. Let's support each other moving forward, okay?"
As the days passed, Kagome continued to support Tsuru, further earning the young couple's trust and gratitude. Her actions not only solidified her place in the village but also began to rebuild her better image within the village.
By the end of the second month, Kikyo had returned. Unfortunately, she did not come alone. The atmosphere shifted, a palpable tension surging through the village as they erupted in chaos - their esteemed and precious Miko returned home with a hanyou by her side.
Kagome stiffened. Her heart skipped a beat, and a wave of fear washed over her, freezing her in place. It was as if time had rewound, pulling her into a distant memory she had tried so hard to forget.
In her mind's eye, she relived the moment when Inuyasha had mistakenly believed she had tried to harm Kikyo. The fury and betrayal in his eyes as he hunted her down, convinced of her guilt. The sheer terror of that chase, the feeling of helplessness and despair. It all came rushing back, overwhelming her senses.
Kagome's hands trembled, her breath coming in short, panicked gasps. She felt rooted to the spot, unable to move or speak. Her mind raced, filled with the echoes of the past. By then Tsuru and Han had found themselves next to her wearing the same expression of disbelief as her, but the depth of their emotion could not amount to hers.
Kikyo and Inuyasha drew closer, their expressions unreadable. Inuyasha's gaze flickered over Kagome, a mix of emotions crossing his face. He seemed to sense her fear, his brows knitting together in concern.
"Why does that brat look you like you, Kikyo?" Inuyasha's voice broke through her haze, pulling her back to the present. Inuyasha stopped in front of her, looking down at her as if she was blocking their path.
Kikyo stopped a few paces behind him, her eyes narrowing slightly as she observed Kagome's reaction. She expected Kagome to feed herself to her one-sided rivalry, but there was something different about Kagome. She seemed out of place.
"Is something the matter, Kagome?" Kikyo spoke up, pushing past Inuyasha.
Kagome took a shaky breath, forcing herself to meet Kikyo's gaze with a tight smile. "I... I'm fine," she managed to say, though her voice wavered. "Just... surprised to see you…and your companion."
Kikyo frowned, clearly not convinced. "You do not look well."
Kagome swallowed hard, trying to steady her racing heart. "It's nothing. Just... memories."
Kikyo's expression could only grow more suspicious, but if Kagome wasn't already looking close enough, she might have missed the mocking smirk that disappeared as quickly as it appeared. Kikyo took a step forward and leaned into Kagome's ear. "Remember, Kagome," Kikyo whispered, her voice laced with an edge of challenge, "the past can be a treacherous place, who knows what harm may come to your future."
Kagome's breath hitched, her heart pounding in her chest. She could feel Kikyo's proximity, the intensity of her presence sending chills down her spine. The words hung in the air, heavy with implication.
Kagome forced herself to break free from the paralyzing fear. She met Kikyo's gaze, refusing to be intimidated. "Indeed, Kikyo," she said, her voice steadying as she spoke, "Memories of the past are powerful, but we are here now, and it will be best to tread carefully."
Kikyo stepped back, her expression returning to its usual calm, though her eyes still held a glint of suspicion. "I see you have not changed at all." she said, her tone dismissive.
Kikyo's eyes lingered on Kagome for a moment longer before she turned away, her expression unreadable. Inuyasha, confused by the exchange that had just occurred, remained silent as he followed Kikyo. However, neither Kagome nor Kikyo missed how Inuyasha subtly turned to stare down Kagome once more before disappearing into Kaede's hut.
"That was mildly off-putting." Startled, Kagome forgot Tsuru and Han were will by her side.
"Goodness, you gave me a shock," Kagome said. With narrowed eyes, she zeroed in on Han. "Hey! You're supposed to be keeping watch and making sure Tsuru does not exert herself! What if she falls again. Off you go, you two, don't let me see you roaming around."
At her sudden outburst, the nearby crowd had decided to disperse. With Tsuru and Han also gone, Kagome finally let out a shuddered whimper that she had been holding onto. With hurried steps, she made way to the Goshinboku. However, fearing she might breakdown before reaching her destination, she focused on her five senses, hoping to calm her nerves.
Five things you can see.
Kagome lifted her gaze to the path ahead, noticing the vibrant colours of the surrounding forest. The lush green leaves swayed gently in the breeze, the golden rays of the setting sun filtered through the canopy, casting a warm glow on the ground. She saw the delicate petals of wildflowers scattered along the path, their colours a striking contrast to the earthy tones. She observed the playful dance of shadows on the forest floor, created by the interplay of light and leaves. And in the distance, she saw the majestic Goshinboku, its towering presence a beacon of stability.
Four things you can touch.
She reached out and let her fingers brush against the rough bark of a nearby tree, feeling its texture grounding her. She picked up a smooth stone from the path, its cool surface soothing against her palm. She ran her hand through the tall grass, the soft blades tickling her fingertips. As she neared Goshinboku, she placed her palm on its ancient trunk, feeling the solid, reassuring presence beneath her hand.
Three things you can hear.
Kagome tuned into the symphony of nature around her. She heard the rustling of leaves, a gentle whisper carried by the breeze. The distant chirping of birds, their melodies intertwining in a harmonious chorus. And the soft hum of insects, a constant backdrop to the tranquillity of the forest.
Two things you can smell.
The earthy scent of the forest enveloped her, mingling with the faint fragrance of blooming flowers. She inhaled deeply, letting the soothing aroma fill her lungs and clear her mind. The familiar scent of Goshinboku's bark was a reminder of the countless times she had found refuge under its branches.
One thing you can taste.
Tears. Again. The salty, bittersweet sensation reminded her of her vulnerability and strength. It was a raw, tangible connection to her emotions, grounding her in the present moment.
I hope you enjoyed this chapter :)