InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Pressing Matters ❯ The First Walls Tumble ( Chapter 1 )

 

AN: * Sigh * This is a multi chapter thing-a very few chapter thing with very long chapter things. Partially dedicated to the Yahoo/MSN Group Kagome Ultimate Bachellorette, who has just broken the 100 members mark (I think). Really I have no idea what is possessing me to write this. Especially when I doubt it will turn out to be any good. I guess I am just upset that this crossover and pairing has died down. Ah well, here is my meager shot to contribute to a wonderful pairing. Enjoy and review if you like. Also, if anyone would like to promote this pairing (meaning you have a fic with it in it) then e-mail me and I will post you fic or a link to your fic in my new group-Shard Hunters and Spirit Detectives. It is a yahoo group and is still in the birthing process.

 

NOTICE: For those who have reviewed `This Time Imperfect' I am working on that fic. The chapter is taking a while to get put forth-whereas this one was like BAM! So take a moment to breath. I will update.

 

Disclaimer: I claim no ownership of any recognizable character.

 

Dedication: For… KUB. And for those who left me the best reviews I have ever read on A Single Spark (kagsess.eternal-adoration.net) Thank you.

 

- - - - - - -

 

Smile Like You Mean It

Chapter One:

The First Walls Tumble

by: Tesmoname

 

- - - - - - -

 

She was almost desperate enough to cry

but then he would hate her-

she was almost weak enough to die

but then who would save her?

And he was almost too far gone to see

but then her touch he would miss-

still he didn't know if he could sacrifice eternity

for the flickering euphoria of one more kiss.

 

- - - -

 

She was positive that it wasn't supposed to hurt as much as it did. Almost certain that what she felt around her was some sort of hallucination, something conjured from the depths of her mind. Sent to plague her as a sick joke from above, though pain like this most assuredly came from the depths of hell.

 

And yet, never before had she ever imagined that death would feel like this-as if her skin was splitting ever so slowly. Stretching and cracking almost meticulously, attempting to encompass the terrible evil that she was killing on the inside.

 

Once upon a time ago, when the Final Confrontation had seemed to be little more than a nagging sense of foreshadowing, Kagome had mused with her Buddhist companion about life, and inadvertently death. “I wonder how it will feel…” She had murmured, more to herself than him, but her statement was thought over, and answered with one of his own.

 

“Let us not worry over such morbid topics ne? I can think of plenty other things that I would rather be doing…”

 

A smack had resonated throughout the forest.

 

And now, in the throes of fire, Kagome weakly tried to grip the fleeing memory-the sensations of feeling safe and secure amongst her friends. After all-wasn't she doing this for them? Still, it was too much to ask of her mind, and so Kagome Higurashi finally turned all of her attention to the task at hand.

 

Killing herself.

 

It was writhing, sharp angles and rough edges bumping and scraping up her insides, biting into the soft flesh and sinewy muscles. But those sensations barely registered to her. For at that moment, Kagome was attempting to snuff out the evil that was burning inside of her-turning her own purification powers on herself. It was maddening. At first there had been no pain-but as the aura of the spawn within her continued to grow and gnash out, her powers had immediately begun suffocating the creature, as well as herself-for Naraku had wrapped himself, and warped her essence.

 

Tainting her.

 

Ironically Kagome realized that this was how it felt to be a normal human, one that was selfish, greedy, demanding, murderous, malicious, and now… Evil.

 

Evil, the one word that alone could encompass the very essence of the demon she battled with now. For only one such as he could have devised such a plot… None but he could have picked such a battle ground.

 

For no one would have imagined that the Final Confrontation would take place within Kagome's womb.

 

It had been in the midst of a battle with Naraku's most recent incarnates, when suddenly…

 

It ran towards her, claws outstretched and murder in its eyes. But she was not afraid anymore, she could handle this on her own-or at the very least hold it off until Inuyasha or the others could come and help her.

 

Determination in her stance Kagome clutched tight to the glaive she had picked up from one of the soldiers at her feet. She sent her purification into the weapon, like Keade had taught her to. And readied herself to ward off the demon.

 

Shippo cheered her on from behind the side lines, knowing he would hinder more than help.

 

`Go mama!'

 

How could she be afraid for herself with such encouragement?

 

And so Kagome faced the oncoming incarnate, fully expecting a head on attack.

 

She had not expected it to fall a few feet short, and then lash at her with a barbed whip, still it managed to only grace her abdomen before she lurched backwards, her stance never failing.

 

She only got worried when she felt Naraku's presence from within the grinning creature. She quickly traded the glaive for her more adequate bow and arrows, taking aim at where she felt the presence.

 

But it was too late.

 

It leaped at her, a seed, an egg, something small and infused with him. It leaped at her and imbedded itself into her open wound.

 

`INUYASHA!' The scream was not her own, it was her child's. For at the moment…

 

Kagome was in too much pain to scream.

 

But she had to push herself just a little bit more. If she could just ignore the whispers of maliciousness that radiated from Naraku, and focus on saving the lives of her friends then…

 

`I could end this.' She thought to herself. `End all of the pain and suffering. No more death and destruction. They will be able to live their lives…'

 

“Even if you must die?”

 

“Even if you must sacrifice your own happiness for theirs?”

 

“How far are you willing to go for some people who, after the battle, you would never have seen again?”

 

Naraku was there, within her-testing her mettle.

 

“How much pain and suffering will you put yourself through for those who don't even appreciate you? For you will suffer little miko.”

 

Kagome gathered herself, drawing upon the love that she held for her friends-and the hopes she had for all of them.

 

`Inuyasha and Kikyo must live long and healthy and find solace with one another! Miroku and Sango must have all the children she can bare! And Shippo must grow up to see the world…'

 

“You will suffer greatly miko! Death will not offer you the Eden you seek!” There seemed to be an edge of desperation to his voice and to the damage he was urgently inflicting upon her dying body. It seemed that his plan had backfired upon him. He had fully expected to ensnare the miko known as Kagome, and use her body as his own. The resistance she offered wasn't supposed to be such a great obstacle. And yet…

 

“There will be no peace for you!”

 

But his words were lost upon the time traveler. For she merely smiled grimily, a smile that tortured her gathered companions before she muttered vehemently…

 

“So be it.”

 

- - - -

 

The Shikon lay before them, utterly complete and pure.

 

It sat heavily upon a pale and cold chest, nearly hidden amongst the grimy wrappings that criss-crossed the body.

 

Three companions sat in stunned silence, attempting to understand exactly what had happened. All of them failed to do so of course, but that was not much of consequence to them. They had more pressing matters to deal with.

 

“Ka-go-mmee!” Shippo was sobbing over the woman he had taken to calling his mother, dreading that she was about to end up like his previous parents. “Oh wake up mama!” His face contorted as a sob shuddered its way through him, “wake up.” He finished weakly, allowing his hands to fall away from her pale and cold cheeks.

 

“We-we have to get Kagome-san to a healer immediately.” Miroku said wearily, his eyes unfocussed as they ran over the scene that had played before them.

 

Her chest tore open, her skin replaced with glowing light.

 

And finally she screamed…

 

Shuddering the monk allowed his mind to shy away from the gruesome images, opting instead for common sense. “A healer. Now.” He repeated to his equally fazed friends.

 

Inuyasha's mouth opened and closed a couple of times in his vain attempt to gather his wits about him enough to assemble something with the visage of a coherent sentence.

 

“I-

 

“Who could save her now Miroku!” Sango's eyes were narrowed, and tears fell freely down her face. “There is barely breath in her body! Kago-she is nearly dead…” Her body shook horribly. It felt as if her world was once again falling apart. “Gods she is dead.”

 

Inuyasha felt the same, even with his enhanced senses, he could barely detect the life inside of his best friend. “What can we do?”

 

Shippo was shaking again, but not out of sorrow. The kitsune was quite livid, his blood was burning in his veins, and he wanted nothing more than to bite every single one of them!

 

But Miroku was the voice of reasoning. “Kagome is alive! We must help her in any way we can. Do you really want to look back upon this day and worry for the rest of your life… `What if?' What if we took Kagome to a healer and she lived? What if…”

 

Sango had her elbows propped on her thighs, her hands holding her head wearily. “Who Miroku? Who would have the power to undo the damage that Naraku has done to her?”

 

Miroku shook his head, returning his gaze to his sickly white hands that were damp with sweat, he stared at them both-reveling in the absence of the kazana. “I don't know who.” He began, “but I owe her too much to just sit here and let her die. And you do too.”

 

The silence hung over the field for what seemed to be an eternity before Shippo yelped. “I know who!”

 

They all turned to him in surprise, a thin thread of hope in their eyes. “Who?” It was in unison.

 

“Well… The Ice Demons.”

 

- - - - - - -

 

`It is almost your 500th birthday.'

 

There was no response.

 

`Anything in particular that you wish me to procure for you? I do believe that it is human custom to give gifts to another on this occasion.'

 

Hiei growled, `And when have I ever deigned human customs fit for…'

 

Kurama patiently waited for the fire and ice apparition to finish his sentence, despite the fact that he knew it would be a derogatory ending.

 

… `Anything?' He finished, his monotonous voice holding merely an iota of morbid humor.

 

But Kurama had him now, being what one could consider a `friend' to the stoic demon had allowed him to find Hiei's one weakness for human kind.

 

`I rather thought you liked pocky and sweets myself… Wouldn't you say that is a rather pleasant human invention?'

 

`Hn.' Was his response to the kitsune's attempt at cornering him into appraising the ningen race. Besides, he secretly believed that it had been a youkai invention in the first place.

 

`Some human probably stole the idea.' This he thought to himself, having no desire to re-initiate the former conversation. Instead he turned his thoughts over to the fact that the avatar had been so kind as to mention to him.

 

It would be his birthday before the month was out.

 

Not that it mattered or anything, he doubted that anyone besides Kurama knew of such a thing. He could actually imagine that dumb ass spirit detective to gape and gawk at such information before saying, `Someone gave birth to you?!'

 

A comment, which of course, would cost the moron his life.

 

Hiei's pedigree was not a topic that he would allow to be open for discussion.

 

But his mind had latched onto the upsetting thoughts, and refused to cease tormenting him. And as irritating as it was, he decided that perhaps now would be a good time for and introverted get-away.

 

Kurama looked over at the window-sill only to find that his friend had disappeared into the night. Somewhat dejectedly the kitsune avatar went to close the window, but not before Youko got in one last bite.

 

`That man, seriously needs to get laid.'

 

The window shut closed with an audible SNAP.

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

It had taken much persuading, and many, many bribes in order to acquire a guide to take the group into the lands of the Ice Demons. And it had taken even more bribes, and much more begging before they managed to gain effective transportation.

 

Lucky for them however, the deal had come in one complete package, one that was rather nicely wrapped as well.

 

Lord Sesshomaru.

 

Said lord had not relished the idea of being the beast of burden for the dying miko. And neither had Inuyasha. However, as Fate would have it, no one in the immediate vicinity other than himself had the knowledge of where these lands lay. And only he had access to even speedier transportation.

 

Still, had it not been for the human child who had traveled with him, Sesshomaru would most certainly not be taking the female anywhere. The two of them had never been on good terms when it came to anything other then Rin herself.

 

And it had been Rin who finally convinced her lord to.. `Save the pretty lady like you did Rin!' Yet seeing as how the miko had a rather annoying penchant for living, Sesshomaru could not wield the Tensusaiga for her. And much to his disgruntlement, none in the group would simply allow him to kill her.

 

After all, there were just some things they could not do.

 

But if she died during the journey there-then he had better use his sword in order to save her life.

 

Although personally he was already creating the story of her unfortunate demise at the end of a particularly nasty fall…

 

But lying in such a manner was beneath him…

 

And he had nothing better to do.

 

Thus Sesshomaru found himself on the precarious journey to reach the lands of the Kooromie. It had been two days since he had set out on his cloud of jyaki, and he was quickly growing impatient as they drew nearer and nearer to their destination.

 

`Four hours.' It would be four hours until they reached the lands of the famed ice people, renowned for their skills in healing. Only four hours until he could be rid of the human.

 

But even Sesshomaru had to grudgingly admit that for a human, she was damnably strong willed. Despite the often frigid temperature, strong winds, and infectious wounds, the girl failed to just die.

 

Commendable as that talent may have been, she was earning no brownie points with the frigid taiyoukai.

 

A sigh escaped the lord, something that was barely discernable from the whispers of the wind as it flowed through his hair.

 

`Three hours and fifty seven minutes…'

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

The woman placed a pale and cold hand, upon a snow white and freezing brow.

 

`This woman will not live long…' She thought to herself with tangible sorrow, for she could feel the purity that radiated outwards from the human girl in comforting waves. `There may not be much that I can do for her.'

 

Still, she had to try-if only to attempt to soothe the guilt that had been a part of her for over 300 years.

 

That and the fact that this girl was simply an anomaly. Though anomalies were hardly simple. For here was this ningen female, `Kagome Higurashi,' she reminded herself, who clutched within her stiff fingers the Jewel of Four Souls.

 

And in her hands (and her hands alone, as the Demon Lord had been so kind as to point out to her) the Shikon shone with a radiant glow, proof positive that this girl was to be the Keeper.

 

`But I must try to save her life. For obviously there is much left for this woman to do.'

 

And so the ice apparition began to mend to broken body of Kagome Higurashi, noticing all the while-that the Shikon sank ever-so-slowly into its' Guardians body.

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

Weeks, it had been many many days since Kagome had been distributed on the Ice Demons `doorstep'. And finally she was healed.

 

As was the Sacred Jewel.

 

The woman, demon really, who had been taking care of her was called Mizaki, and the little girl who helped her was named Yukina. It had been many long weeks that she had stayed for within their house-hold, them taking care of her broken body. There had been a few minor set backs-including random demons attempting to abduct and devour Mizaki's patient, during which Kagome would attempt to leave her host. She didn't like the idea of being a burden to anyone.

 

“Nonsense Kagome-san!” Mizaki had softly reprimanded her after one such incident. “It is a pleasure. We do not get very many visitors here in the mountains.”

 

Kagome frowned, “but you must have people, demons too, lined up at your door to be healed!”

 

The ice demoness nodded and brushed a rogue strand of blue hair away from her face, before tucking it behind a dainty ear. “Well, perhaps-

 

“And you have to have guys just falling over each other to get a glimpse of you!” The raven haired miko sat up in her silken bed, marveling once again at the ethereal beauty of her care-taker. “Really! I just bet you have a dozen or so suitors knocking at your-

 

A shadow passed over Mizaki's face, followed quickly by a pained and guarded look. It was gone almost as soon as it had arrived, but Kagome was good at reading people, and she knew immediately that she had gone too far. “Sorry.” She whispered quietly, angry at herself for being so rude to the person who had been caring for her.

 

She dug her fingers into the rich fabric before murmuring, “I think I should be going soon-like it or not it isn't safe for me to stay here much longer.”

 

Mizaki couldn't know that when Kagome said `it isn't safe for me to stay here…' she was referring to all of the Feudal Era. There were just too many greedy demons, and humans, who were willing to risk it all for the jewel that had fused itself with her heart.

 

“I-I understand Kagome-san.” And with that the ice apparition began to exit the hut.

 

“Wait!” Kagome called out, her hand outstretched. Mizaki turned around curiously, and Kagome was at a loss for words. “I-ah, well that is… I just wanted to say…” Mizaki's red eyes bore into her own before Kagome sighed wearily and said, “thank you.”

 

Mizaki nodded once, and then left the time traveler twisting anxiously within the sheets.

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

`Dumb ass.'

 

That single pro-noun revebrated throughout Hiei's mind as he watched his fellow detectives scramble over one another in an attempt to gain control over the remote control.

 

“It's MINE Kuwa-baka!”

 

“Not on your second life Urameshi!” The tall red head retorted as he began to pry away Yuusuke's limbs from his own. “Now get off!”

 

“Really boys. Do you two have to make us out to be idiots?” Botan inquired from behind the shelter of her irion-like oar, she was having a hell of a time restraining the laughter that threatened to break out at the sight. But it wasn't the two boys that had captured her interest, and for once it wasn't the tantalizing kitsune that held her focus.

 

It was Koenma.

 

The child-size ruler was blue in the face. His eyes were not discernable from behind the swollen red-ness of his cheeks, and his minature fists beat upon his desk in a toddler-like tantrum.

 

“That is not a TOY you buffoons!” He cried, throwing random objects at his detective's head with astounding accuracy. “This remote,” he held up high the slim plastic appendage that Kurama had idly tossed him, “allows me to view the lives of any mortal being on this planet-in widescreen of course!”

 

“I always knew he was a pedifile.” Kuwabara murmured to his team leader, Yuusuke.

 

“Of course, why else would he retain such a form?” Was his response.

 

Both comments, of course, lead the two to find themselves huddled together in a rather dark, cold, and slimy predicament.

 

“Urameshi! Get your hand off of my leg.”

 

“My hand isn't on your leg you dumb fuck!”

 

“Then what is-

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

Kurama sighed, “Was that really necessary?” He asked the Prince of the Makai, tossing his head towards the two rocking spirit detectives, “they are completely useless to you now.”

 

It was true, at the moment, the two boys who had insulted Koenma sat traumatized upon the lush carpeted floor. Both murmuring, “no, no, I refuse…”

 

`Let the child have his fun.' Hiei whispered within the red headed fox's mind.

 

Kurama sighed, `You are too happy to be sharing their pain Hiei.'

 

The hybrid demon just “Hned” before continuing to snicker at the fate of his foolish companions.

 

“Okay now Yuusuke snap out of it!” Koenma yelled, watching with perverse pleasure as his two most prized `sorta' humans shed away the brief hallucination.

 

“I assume you two have composed yourselves?” He inquired haughtily.

 

“What the FUCK did you do that for shrimpy?” Kuwabara yelled angrily. `So dark, so cold…'

 

Yuusuke however, just kept his mouth shut.

 

Koenma smirked before clearing his throat, “Ahem, yes. Now that you are all here I suppose you wish to know under what circumstances?”

 

“Your guess would be correct sir.” Kurama replied quietly. He had no wish to stay longer than was absolutely necessary.

 

“Well than. If you must know, it is regarding you Hiei.”

 

Hiei had been standing off in the shadows of a dimly lit corner. The darkness helped him blend away from the ruckus, and in all outward appearances he seemed to be sleeping. However, each of the men in the room knew differently. Each knew that if just one of them breathed the wrong way, then there was a good chance the hybrid's katana would become unsheathed.

 

A very, very bad thing indeed.

 

And so, when Koenma mentioned that the mission at hand involved the testy demon-every individual in the vicinity held their breath. Waiting timidly for his response.

 

The shadows that Hiei cloaked himself in did nothing to hide the intensity of his crimson gaze, “And?” It was a typical Hiei response. Monosyllabic, and straight to the point.

 

The Prince grimaced, “yes well-it concerns your birthday. You see, I received a notation that in a few days you would be 500 some odd years old, and well frankly-according to the document, this would be your-

 

“I know exactly what it would be.” Hiei cut him off and emerged from the clinging darkness of the corner, “and you would do well to mind your own business.”

 

“Now see here Hiei! According to this letter-in a few days you will become a major threat to everyone!” Koenma was standing on his desk now, pacing, and knocking aside important papers.

 

“Shrimpy? I had no idea it was your birthday-so don't expect anything from me!”

 

Now the fire and ice apparition was pissed. “Fine. All of you-stay out of my business.” He held forth his blade ominously before taking off into the depths of the Makai, probably to find a horde of demons to slaughter and take the tension off of his shoulders.

 

Kurama tore his eyes away from the path his friend had just taken, “That was not wise Koenma. To go prying into Hiei's private life.”

 

The child ruler groaned in frustration and jumped up and down on his desk. “Ohhh! You just don't get it do you? None of you get it!”

 

Koenma snatched up the remote for the life-viewing television and flipped it to some strange channel. “Hiei is a mix of youkai. To be more exact he is a mix of polar opposite elements. Fire and ice-

 

“I thought fire and water were opposites.” Kuwabara stated.

 

“Close enough you moron! But that is not the point, the point is that his inner youkai will fight with each other. Ever demon has one night were they allow their blood beast to consume them. But this lack of control is usually harmless. But again, his inner youkai will fight with one another and he will be more prone to becoming a homicidal lunatic… Again!”

 

Yuusuke rolled his eyes, “Really? That just doesn't sound quite right. Because in case you haven't noticed-Hiei isn't the sort of guy to… Well maybe, but I don't think he would just up and destroy the world.”

 

Koenma sighed, “I don't know exactly. But I know that we are all royally screwed if he kills that girl.” He pointed to the current channel the `spy' t.v. was tuned to. A girl was portrayed dimly, she wore a green and white school outfit, yet her face was cast in shadow. They all looked at him strangely-one thought running through their minds.

 

`Yeah right-like Hiei would loose it over a girl.'

 

“You don't understand!” Koenma cried yet again when he saw the look in their eyes.

 

This time it was Kurama who growled low and warningly, the sound barely past his lips. “Then make us understand.”

 

The Prince of the Makai frowned at the underlying threat. “It has to do with the prophecy that was created… I don't know, about 500 years ago. This prophecy was created by Hiei's mother. The only problem is-it isn't quite a prophecy, it is more like a-like a.”

 

“Like a what little man? Spit it the fuck out-you are starting to get on my nerves.” And to prove his point, Yuusuke began to crack his knuckles in anticipation.

 

Koenma gulped, “Ah yes well, it was more like a promise of sorts. A promise to Hiei. And the only problem is that I know that Hiei would kill this girl… and then the world would come to an end…”

 

“Listen, Koenma sir. What prophecy-or-promise.” Botan looked around. “What? Was I really the only one who was curious? Fine fine! What about that girl? What does she have to do with all of this.”

 

“No, I do want to know about this so called promise.” Yuusuke was glowering along with his other companions. “Does Hiei know about it?”

 

“Well. No.”

 

“Then what is the fucking malfunction?”

 

Koenma angrily threw his hat away from him, not caring that it had smacked right into Botan. He didn't care-but Kurama did, and he growled once again.

 

“The `fucking malfunction.' Yuusuke, is that he could still kill this girl! The ice youkai Mizaki prophesized that the flame born in the ice would… Oh Fates be damned!” He dove behind his desk and reemerged with a crumpling scroll.

 

“She said… `Once the war of his elements begins, man will tremble around him. And down will come the walls to which he has been bound. Fire will not melt the ice that surrounds him. Unless a light for him can be found.”

 

Kuwabara grimaced, “and you are sure that shorty isn't just having his period?”

 

Kurama snorted from his position in the room, “I highly doubt that Kazuma. And yet, it does seem that you are raising an alarm for seemingly no reason whatsoever. Besides, Hiei's birthday is not until the end of the week. I promise that he will do nothing to harm anyone then.”

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

“…Kagome do not leave just yet.” Mizaki whispered to the girl. But then again, to Kagome, it seemed as if none of these people ever spoke above the softest possible exhale of breath. It was really quite irritating since one had to strain the ears to hear the inaudible words over the screaming of the mountain winds. “There are things that I would like to speak to you about before you leave.”

 

“Sure thing!” Kagome responded with a brilliant smile, willing to do anything for the demoness that had taken her in under her wing.

 

Also, if she followed Mizaki into her hut-then she could escape the frigid temperatures of the outdoors. Though to be truthful, the temperatures on the inside were not much of an improvement.

 

All the same, she stomped through the rising snow back into the house that had become her icy home over the past 4 weeks. Just a few more days and I will be back in my own time! The modern era-with its nice hot water, thick sheets, a real bed, with hot cocoa…

 

“Kagome…” The demoness's soft voice effectively broke through the modern day miko's daydream, causing her to blush in embarrassment.

 

“Sorry-I was just thinking about home.” She said in apology for her lack of attention.

 

Mizaki nodded, “Would you tell some about where you come from?”

 

It was a simple question, one that a host would be allowed to ask-and so Mizaki was surprised at the hesitant look on Kagome's face. Kagome in turn, was battling with herself over whether or not she should tell this woman…

 

“Kagome-san, you do not have t-

 

“Actually. I am not even from this time period.” The sentence was barely spoken above her breath, and Kagome almost hoped that the ice apparition wouldn't believe her.

 

“I live almost 500 years in the future, 450 years to be exact. I am able to cross the paths of time and venture here, in the Feudal Era-as my time has come to call it.”

 

Mizaki's crimson eyes were wide in shock and confusion. “I-I see. Then, do you think that the Shikon no Tama will be safe here-er-there? Then?”

 

Kagome giggled at Mizaki's lack of proper pronouns. “Yeah, I think so. After all, you did fuse it to my heart right? So now it is a part of me, and I can take care of it is my time. I mean, there aren't that many youkai were I come from.”

 

“I see.” Was all that was offered in response. And for what seemed like an eternity Mizaki merely sat before her, sipping her chamomile tea. Kagome began to fidgit in what was becoming a one-sided uncomfortable silence.

 

“Uh well, oh! Didn't you want to speak with me about something?” She exclaimed happily-relieved that she had found a topic of conversation.

 

“Yes-but I believe that at the moment my topic of conversation is changed.”

 

The young girl's intrest was piqued, “Why's that?”

 

Shard red eyes collided with glacier blue, “because I doubt that my son will be in your future. Therefore I don't think that you have anything to worry about.”

 

`I didn't know she had a son. Is she hinting that he might be a threat to me in this time? Well that just sucks.'

 

“Alright then. I think that that is Sesshomaru out there.” It was true-she could feel his aura spiking in frustration, after all-she was tardy.

 

“I have to go, thank you Mizaki for everything.”

 

The ice demon smiled genially, “It was no trouble dear… Please take care of yourself.”

 

“I will! Bye, and bye Yukina!” Kagome called back behind her before dashind out of the hut and into Sesshomaru. “Eheh, sorry! Didn't see you there.”

 

The inu youkai merely glanced down at her nonplussed before sniffing the air and going very still. “Well well miko, it seems that we have quite a few things to discuss…”

 

Kagome sighed, it was going to be a long ride back… `I think that it is about 4 hours…'

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

Koenma wanted to cry. It was all he could do to not throw himself onto the floor and protest that his life was about to become a living hell. But he had strength enough to restrain himself from such a juvenile action. Instead he allowed himself a moment to walk discreetly into a corner and slammed his head into the wall. Afterwards he did allow himself that infantile cry.

 

Botan winced from her opposite corner, rubbing her own head in sympathy. “Sir?” She tentatively called out as she wrapped a slender hand around her oar. But the child demi god ignored her and continued to cry. “Sir!” She yelled again after she felt her ears would fall off from the sheer magnitude of the wail. It wasn't usual for the ruler to act this way, despite his outer appearance Koenma was usually cool and collected about such crisis.

 

But then again neither of them had ever thought that they would see this day come. Yes, it had nearly happened a dozen times, and yes they had had some very close calls. But every time, every single time, the threat had been swept aside into nothing. He had never actually thought that this would happen!

 

“SIR!” Botan screamed loudly as the fortress began to shake again, sending dirt and debris onto the floor and into her sky blue hair. Her cotton candy pink eyes widened as her boss began racing around the room to collect all sorts of files and folders.

 

“Well don't just stand their Botan! Help me!” He cried desperately when his hands became full. “Quick! Grab the sub-space pocket in my drawer!” The room was shaking violently now and he could almost feel the floor beneath him roll. “Hurry!” He shouted frantically from behind his stack of files.

 

The Ferry girl snatched the papers form his tiny grasp and shoved them into the bottomless yellow back pack that hung from her shaking fingertips. “Is this all?” She questioned loudly over the roar of turmoil that was ensuing through the Makai. She barely had time to register the way his over large hat swayed from side to side in negation before letting out a strangled sound as he ran off towards the vaults. “Koenma!”

 

“We have to get the artifacts Botan!” He shrieked in reply as he dodged a large desk that was projected across the room he was traversing. Damnit, I wish I had Hiei's speed right now! He thought grimly as he reached the large and shielded vaults.

 

Shit shit shit! Koenma wanted to pull out his hair when he realized how impossible it would be to get through the barriers without one of the god's help. . .

 

“Need a hand Junior?” A mocking voice inquired from its position next to him. Koenma growled at the Trickster, the one god he did not want to see at the moment.

 

“You know damn well that I need your help to open this door.” He said at the kitsune god who was glancing at him mirthfully, “Open it up!”

 

The russet haired and impossibly handsome specimen of a diety sighed in resignation, “As much as I hate to admit it…”

 

“Shippou-

 

“I really must open this door for you.”

 

They stared at each other for a pregnant moment before turning towards the vault in unison. There was a flurry of hand movements from Koenma before he spoke the password he needed to give.

 

As soon as the words left his tight lips a blazing insignia appeared on the vault, the diameter of which was almost a head longer than the Trickster. Said god stepped up towards the now dull seal before he lifted a clawed finger covered and shielded in his youki. His sea green eyes narrowed as his finger made an electrical contact with the seal. His defined jaw clenched against the unpleasant sensations that swam through his body as he forced himself to continue the painstakingly slow process of writing out the ritual words that would grant them access to the artifacts and files that were hidden behind the vault doors.

 

As his fingers traced the ancient words across the seal, the structure of the building began to crumble, causing Botan to shriek in fright. Shippou didn't spare her a glance as he yelled out tersely, “Get out of here! Get those to your pets before this thing falls down on top of you.” Koenma nodded assent as he shifted from foot to foot anxiously awaiting for the lengthy process to be done and over with.

 

Botan hesitated for a second before flipping into the air with an amazing show of skill as she sped off on her oar, leaving the two behind. It wasn't long after that the Trickster yelled, “Fuck this!” He yanked his hand away from the door and proceded to blast it open with a good deal of ki, leaving him almost tapped out.

 

Koenma didn't even protest to the condition on the vault before dashing into the room and throwing everything he could into the identical yellow back pack that the kitsune had provided him. This thing is the only good thing that has come from that god. He thought absently, But why did he have to make it yellow? When he felt it was too dangerous to continue on he closed the bag and sprinted out of the room, not surprised to see the god gone. He made a beeline for the gapping hole in the ground before running through it and freefalling towards the Nigenkai.

 

How did this happen?

 

From somewhere above the falling ruler a kitsune god was chewing on his lip unhappily and ecstatically. This is what he had been waiting for for half a millennia! This had to be the sign that she was on her way through! At the same time he hoped reverently that it wasn't true, that this was just another horrible Armageddon that occurred every couple of decades. Because if this truly was her foretold entrance then she was going to be the most hunted creature in all of the Makai, or Nigenkai, or—well she would be the most hunted thing in all three worlds! And he had no way of protecting her…

 

Sesshomaru is gonna fucking kill me.

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

`Sometimes I think that this thing has a mind of it's own. Which I guess it does, several. At least I know it has a soul. Well I think that perhaps that soul should have a body to! So I can ask it what it did to my own time. I know that did something to my home before it merged with me completely… But what?'

 

Kagome sighed and glanced up at the domineering inu who was still giving her that blank look. ` He thinks I am crazy and talking to myself'. She thought to herself as she once again fingered the hallow of her throat and the vile that hung was nestled there.

 

“Do you understand what you are implying miko?” Sesshomaru demanded, he never asked or requested anything. He expected her to know the honest answers, nothing else would do for nothing else would be perfect.

 

She laughed silently at the thought that the inuyoukai would have a perfection complex. The amusement must have shown on her face because she earned herself a glare from the demon across from her.

 

She was surrounded by her friends and allies: Her first love, her surrogate child, her sister in arms, a perverted monk that she would have watch her back any day, and a former enemy who was proving himself to be an invaluable asset to their team.

 

“Kagome-chan?” Sango murmured from besides her, “Are you sure that the jewel is-

 

“Gone? Did you loose the fucking thing?” Inuyasha barked out angrily, not liking the shallow pallor that had set in her face. “Keh, figures.”

 

Kagome drew in a deep breath and brought her fingers to her temples, then to her eyes to forestall the headache she could feel beginning to form. “Just wait Inuyasha, I believe that Kagome-sama will explain everything to us if we allow her.” Her dark eyes fell upon Miroku with a grateful smile that was returned.

 

Taking another calming breath she explained, “It isn't gone gone. It is inside of me.” She waited for them to digest that tidbit of information before continuing, “And I think that it has done something bad.”

 

True to form it was Sesshomaru who first replied, “I believe I informed you already that I hate to reiterate myself. You informed me of this development already, now—Do you understand what you are implying?”

 

Kagome felt heat rise into her cheeks even as she controlled the childish urge to blow a raspberry his way. Instead she nodded, “I think that what I am saying is that it wanted to be inside me.” She raised her hands palms out to forestall the onslaught of questions that were about to ensue, “no, I don't know why. I don't know how. I told you about the incident at the well, you know about as much as I do.”

 

`Except for the fact that the jewel has done something to my era, and that we-it wants to return there as soon as possible'.

 

The group began to speak amongst themselves, leaving Kagome to lean back from the fire and into the tree behind her. She allowed her eyes to drift close when the fuzzy warmth in her arms began to stir. “Kaaagome?” Shippou yawned from within the shelter of her lap, displaying minute needle sharp teeth. He lifted his paws to rub the sleep from his eyes. When he finished that task he stared at her stomach blankly for a moment, making her wonder if he was about to drop back off to sleep. She reached down and gave his top knot a gentle tug so that he looked up at her smiling face.

 

“Hey Shippou,” She whispered quietly as to not disturb the debate that was raging around the fire-pit. He gave her a smile in return before glancing contemptuously at the group.

 

“What are they arguing about now!” He whined in his most melodramatic manner, causing her to giggle.

 

“Pay attention for me and find out.” She told him decidedly cheerful. He scowled up at her.

 

“That is cheating!”

 

Kagome had to bite the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing at his outraged look before shaking her head mirthfully, “Oh no Shippou, I wouldn't cheat!”

 

He grinned at her before leaping atop of her head and leaning down to whisper in her ear, “Well I wont tell if you don't.”

 

She swatted him down playfully before saying, “Shame Shippou! Haven't I taught you about being honest and fair? And here you are speaking to me of cheating?” She gasped dramatically, “What has this world come to?”

 

The kitsune pup pouted up at her as he made his eyes melt into liquid pools of emerald. This time she couldn't help but burst out laughing, “Oh stop! You are just too cute!” She scooped him back up into her arms, unaware that the conversation had stopped.

 

“Yes, I am!” He said without a trace of humility which only caused her to have further amounts of fits.

 

When Kagome had finally calmed down enough to wipe the tears away from her eyes she realized that everyone was staring at her. “What?” She demanded fiercely, turning her nose in a mock sign of arrogance, causing her kit to snicker.

 

Inuyasha snorted, “You haven't been listening to a damn thing that we have said now have you?”

 

It was Kagome's turn to glare at him, “Of course I have, you guys were discussing on how this will affect the wish…”

 

Sesshomaru interjected before the two could have a full out squabble, “That is correct. Your input on this topic would be most valuable seeing how you are the one who is the Guardian.”

 

“And seeing as how is inside of me. Fused with my heart”

 

“That is also true.”

 

She couldn't help but stare at him for a moment in an attempt to soak in all of his flippant charisma and confidence. And arrogance. ` Don't forget arrogance.'

 

Sango began to per Kirara, “What do you think Kagome-chan? What do you want to do.”

 

The time traveling miko blinked, not really believing that her words would have any weight on the topic. Almost disbelievingly she turned to stare at Inuyasha who was nodding.

 

When he saw her look he scoffed, “Come off it Kagome. You know that damned thing better than we do. What is it that you think should happen?”

 

For a moment he was afraid that she was about to cry and began to frantically search his brain for anything he could have said that would have been interpreted as offensive. “Oi! Kag-

 

“Thanks guys.” She whispered looking each of them in the face. Her heart seemed to swell with happiness that her opinion mattered to them. `Well it should! After all I have been a real participant in our battles and my miko powers are growing.'

 

“Your opinion miko?”

 

She glanced back at the group, “Well, I don't know why but-jewel is uh…Compelling me to go back home.” For a moment everyone stared at her disbelievingly, “I think it messed up my time line in an effort to send me back there faster. See, up on the mountain me and my healer had a talk-and we both think that the Jewel would be safer in my own time where there are less demons. But-I cant help but think that the darker half of the jewel did something through me, to my own time, before is was fused to me. So I think I should just quickly go look around and make sure everything is okay!”

 

She gave them all a brilliant smile before she lifted her yellow back pack from behind her, “Look! I will go straight their then straight back! I will even leave this behind since I don't plan on staying.” She glanced around hopefully.

 

Sesshomaru was the first to speak. “I have no qualms about allowing the miko to go back to her era for a short length of time.” His monotonous voice washed over the rest of the members of the shard hunting party.

 

`I am really going to have to remind him what my name is'. Kagome sighed mentally, quite sure that that would be a loosing battle. She was surprised at everyone's enthusiastic encouragement to her suggestion.

 

“You are all sure that you won't mind?” She looked down at Shippou who puffed out with pride that she would consider his opinion in the matter.

 

In his minute voice he declared, “We don't mind Kagome! As long as you come back to us!”

 

. …. But that had been a week ago-and Kagome could no longer return to the Feudal Era…. The place she realized had become home.

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

Perhaps he had thought to find some solace in the glowing orb that hung, like death, in the sky. It was a common mistake he supposed, many a man had and would probably come outside tonight in hopes of finding some sort of middle ground by looking up at the pale, luminous sphere.

 

But they wouldn't.

 

Not tonight at least.

 

Reports on the weather channel proclaimed this to be the infamous Harvest Moon, the time of the year when the moon was closest to the earth. Jokingly the plastic, bubble blowing anchor woman remarked that tonight would be the perfect night for a romantic evening, whereas her co anchor had suggested a night of magic. Hiei knew the truth of course. The rate of crime skyrocketed on nights such as these. Woman were cornered in dark ominous allies tonight more than any other, most likely because her assailant would be able to see the fear upon her face….

 

Tonight just was not the night for a quiet evening at home with the grandkids, reading by the light of the moon and the fire place. No, instead the dark air was charged with rippling undercurrents of electricity. It was everywhere, and whenever he looked up at the moon he could feel his body flush with tension and moderate adrenaline.

 

Now, as he gripped the iron wrought bar of the balcony to his appointed room at Kurama's new apartment, his knuckles turning white with the strain, Hiei could feel his nerves on edge. It was as if someone was constantly watching him—or as if someone had a dead aim on him, their finger on the trigger.

 

Something was going to happen.

 

This he knew instinctively. He could feel the energy of the night suffocating him, rushing at him from all sides. It was very overwhelming, and just a little disconcerting.

 

A soft breeze caressed his cheek, as if to give him strength and bring a calm to his frayed senses. It helped to an extent, but only to remind him to grab his dark sheathed katana before heading out to make rounds around Kurama's block.

 

Hiei went back inside the lightless room, walking about as if he had the sight of a nocturnal beast. He deftly put on his coatt and opened the door, light from the hallway giving birth to shadows within the room. Before the door closed behind him, he grabbed his small Spirit World communicator, in case Koenma had the urge to let him kill something. It was a shot in the dark-but there was always that chance.

 

Automatically his scarlet eyes scanned the hallway—for what? he could only imagine. He supposed that it was out of habit.

 

And Hiei had a lot of old habits

 

He knew that perhaps he was a little on edge, but the truth was that he was afraid for his sister at the moment. Chances that whatever sort of threat he was feeling was directed at demons. Yes, that was the truth.

 

Truth was something that he couldn't change at all. It was an anomaly that couldn't be frightened into submission, couldn't be altered, couldn't be dismissed… But he could sure as hell deny it. And he would for as long as possible. So for all his assumed purposes, he, Hiei had never—nor would he ever feel fear.

 

With that cold assurance sunk into the pit of his hallow heart he made his way out towards the edge of the grounds, heading towards the limits of the block. He didn't know exactly what he was looking for, and he didn't know if there would be anything to find. But the night air was getting to him, and he knew that if he had stayed inside any longer…

 

Walls were not people after all, he had never sworn to not hurt them…

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

Slowly but surely she frees herself from the waters

of doubt that have always plagued her-

perhaps one day she will be able to deny his touch

but then again that may be asking too much.

And he had decided to sit and wait unawares

yet he is so afraid that she no longer cares-

this doubt is eating at him and making regret

his promise to make her smile like she means it.

 

 

- - - - - - -

 

 

AN: Well this is chapter one. Can you believe that I had intended for this to be a one shot? Well just look at this chapter-it is over 22 pages (at least it is on my comp) and so there is no way in hell that this is a one shot. It will instead be a short multi chapter thing. Short meaning few chapters, but chapters that are long…. Unless I should post it as more chapters that are shorter…. Ah well. Review if you will and give me a heads up on how this is going.