InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Family Secrets ❯ Down the well ( Chapter 1 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: kytenluvinu 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama / Adventure / Angst | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 08.01.2006 | Pages: 5 | Words: 8.0K | Visits: 569 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Hentai / Drama / Adventure / Angst | Type: One Shot | Uploaded On: 08.01.2006 | Pages: 5 | Words: 8.0K | Visits: 569 | Status: Completed
Family Secrets
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I Don’t Own Inuyasha. But I do own me.
Kagome woke with a start, she was in her nice warm bed with her nice warm cat. Inuyasha was sitting in the corner of her bedroom sleeping peacefully. Kagome smiled, Inuyasha had hardly let her alone in her own time for more than a night. Kagome wondered what woke her up, she was soon answered.
“Kagome!” It was the voice of her Mother, she sounded upset. Inuyasha stirred slightly but didn’t awaken as Kagome brushed past him and out the door to her Mother. It was very early from what Kagome could tell and was concerned by the intensity of her Mother’s voice. Kagome could see her Mother waiting at the bottom of the steps, she was frowning and her eyes were red from crying.
Kagome paused with shocked. “Mama! What happened.” Kagome’s mind swarmed with possibilities. Grandpa? Souta? Is everyone okay. Kagome’s heart was pounding in her throat.
“Kagome it’s alright, we have a guest.” Her Mother’s voice was shaking slightly, someone brought bad news. It hurt. Kagome gently padded down the stairs and joined her Mother’s side. “It is a member of our Family from America.” Mama softly explained.
“America?” Kagome mouthed mutely. She wasn’t aware of Family in America, no, scratch that, she was vaguely aware of Family in America. A grandfather, a aunt a uncle, and a cousin. A Grandfather on her Mother’s side. He left for America over thirty years ago leaving his wife and child in Japan alone. Kagome’s Mother doesn’t talk about her Father or the half sister he sired, and hides behind a forgiving facade whenever Kagome or her Brother, Souta asks about him. And now Kagome’s Mother was crying, a action Kagome hasn’t seen since the death of her Father. Someone died.
“Kagome, I want you to be polite, she will be staying with us for a while.” Mama said cryptically. She led Kagome to the family room of their home.
“Uh, what.” Was all Kagome could think to say. She will be staying with us for a while?
Kagome was dumbstruck.
Kagome turned into the doorway of the family room, the young girl was standing with her back to Kagome. Kagome’s jaw nearly dropped when her vision was filled with amazing ebony hair. It had to reach down to at least the girl’s knees but she had it up in a high ponytail that brushed her butt.
“Victoria?” Kagome’s Mother warbled. The girl referred to as Victoria slowly turned. And Kagome had her doubts to Victoria’s Japanese heritage. She had brown skin and was very tall and curvy. She wasn’t exactly thin but was far from unattractive. Curvy and slightly busty, she had very dark eyes and could have been Asian from the slant of her eyes. But she was obliviously a foreigner. Kagome became uneasy when she noticed the twin sai swords at the woman’s hip, they gave her the slight feeling she got when she sensed a demonic aura.
Victoria gave Kagome a brilliant and beautiful smile. “Ohayo gozaimasu.” Victoria chirped with a perfect accent.
Kagome smiled back apprehensively and replied. “Ohayo, Victoria-san.” Kagome was taken back when Victoria leaped into her arms and squeezed with a loving hug. She had to be about three or four years older than Kagome and she was much taller. But her voice and her face was young and happy.
“I’m so happy to meet you Kagome.” Victoria smiled as she pulled away. “I always wanted to meet my only cousins and my aunt. Sorry it was under these circumstances.”
“What are these circumstances?” Kagome asked.
Victoria’s smile slowly faded and she lowered her head slightly. “Unfortunately I lost my Family in a fire on Thanksgiving, I was with a friend when it happened.” Kagome placed her hand over her mouth in shock. That was so sad, losing your family on a day of Family togetherness. “I was always aware of you, but I was afraid to contact you. I was living with my friend, but...” Victoria trailed off. Kagome placed a sympathetic hand on her cousin’s shoulder. Victoria looked up and felt compelled to continue. “He...he was taken from me.” Victoria choked out.
Kagome knew not to ask questions. “It’s alright, welcome to our home.” Kagome was about to give a reassuring smile, but she was interrupted by a reality dropping thump. Inuyasha.
“Um, are there others?” Victoria asked, Grandpa and Souta was already downstairs, so who else.
Kagome chuckled nervously. “No, no that was only the cat.” Kagome lied. Victoria raised a questioning eyebrow and looked down on the cat that was grunting and rubbing against her leg. Kagome chuckled again. “Oh that must have been that darn dog.” Kagome made a quick exit before Victoria had a chance to ask anymore questions. Victoria narrowed her eyes slightly, she wasn’t going to let on that she knew full well that it wasn’t a dog. Victoria was able to tell exactly what made the noise, but she wasn’t one to pry. After all that’s why she’s in the situation she’s in now. But she had to see him, she needed to see him again.
Kagome’s Mother wasn’t aware that Inuyasha had slept in her daughter’s room, so the noises came as a surprise to her also. She noticed Victoria beginning to follow Kagome slowly and began to regret inviting her niece to stay. She hadn’t thought of the explanations she would need for Kagome’s frequent absences. And now the world came tumbling down. Mama wasn’t fast enough it seemed, or was it simply that Victoria was to quick, she couldn’t tell. But Victoria was already up the stairs behind Kagome.
Kagome wasn’t sure when she knew that her secret was in danger, but when the reality of it all finally came down on her, she felt like she was caught in a death vise, between the world she grew in and the world she now called home. If Victoria didn’t or couldn’t understand, Kagome would find that her choice between the worlds would come sooner that expected. Inuyasha was thumping around her little room, probably pacing. He was unaware that things may change dramatically for him and Kagome. Especially since he would be soon face to face with someone from his future.
Kagome had burst through the room and slammed the door behind her. Inuyasha was scratching in the middle of her floor. He didn’t seem to acknowledge Kagome at first, there was something on his mind but Kagome didn’t have time to ask questions.
“Inuyasha! You have to get out of here!” Kagome quickly sputtered out. Inuyasha stood and faced Kagome. She was taken back by the sheer confusion and at the same time angry scowl Inuyasha wore over his features. But he didn’t respond, he simply turned and jumped out the window. Kagome stood in bewilderment before a knock on her door jarred her from her thoughts. Victoria didn’t wait for a reply before opening the door.
“Kagome-san!” Victoria smiled and entered. Kagome was still staring out the window Inuyasha jumped through, Victoria placed her hand on Kagome’s shoulder. Kagome for her part was intently thinking of Inuyasha’s reaction, he never acted that way before, unless something truly important is on his mind, like when he runs to Kikyou. Kagome jumped at the touch on her shoulder and felt a strange sensation from it like being touched by some magical force. But then the sensation was gone not even a second later. “Kagome-san?” Victoria asked again. “Are you alright?”
Kagome turned to Victoria quickly and gave her a feign smile. “Oh, of course I’m fine.” Kagome lied. “I’m just a little tired.” That was the truth.
“Ah,” Victoria began. “And...the dog?” Victoria gave Kagome’s shocked expression a sly smile.
Kagome nearly choked on a nervous chuckle. “Oh that’s funny, he likes to jump out the window sometimes.”
“Uh, we’re on the second floor.” Victoria pointed out.
“Yeah, he can handle it.” Kagome laughed. She watched as Victoria stared out the window, and Kagome prayed that Inuyasha wasn’t prowling the grounds in full view.
“Kagome-san?” Victoria said quietly. “There are some strange things out there.” Victoria had a small smirk playing on her lips and Kagome rushed back to the window just to make sure. But Victoria was staring at Goshinkubo. “My friend...he was a strange one, but he was the best.”
Kagome felt like Victoria had some secrets but it wasn’t her place to ask. “Victoria-san may I ask what happened with your friend?” Kagome asked anyway out of sheer curiosity.
Victoria continued to stare at Goshinkubo without responding. Kagome had thought she hit a sore spot and began to stumble over a apology until Victoria sighed and shook her head.
“No, Kagome it’s fine. After all we’re family, no secrets.” Victoria seemed to emit a dry, humorless chuckle. Kagome found it unsettling, it reminded her of Inuyasha’s youkai half brother, Sesshoumaru. Victoria interrupted Kagome’s thoughts. “I was in love with him.” Kagome shot her head up, Victoria was looking at her with a sad smile. “It took awhile for us to admit it to each other though.” Victoria laughed a real laugh this time and flopped on Kagome’s bed. “He wasn’t the type to really express his feelings. He had the strangest eyes I’ve ever seen. And I was instantly drawn into them. He made it his business to ignore me at first, but I’m the type who never gives up. He finally asked me out about six months of cat and mouse.” Victoria furrowed her brow as if something confused her. “He always got the strangest stares...I mean I know why but I saw him for what he really was, and suddenly his yellow eyes and white hair was the least important things about him.”
Kagome had to stop her there. “Yellow eyes and white hair!” Suddenly a heavy word knocked her flat. Youkai.
Victoria flashed a bright smile. “Yeah, he was friends with my Father. He was a tough guy, never afraid of a good fight. Just like my Dad. They were allies from years ago.” Victoria’s smile faded. “He was tough, strong but he had a side he only showed me. That side was sweet and gentle. After the fire he took me to his home and I stayed with him for about four months before...” Victoria quickly stood and went back to the window. “You know, he once told me of a tree that transcends time itself.” Kagome shifted uncomfortably. “He told me of a legend from five hundred years ago, about a priestess and a magic seal and a jewel. He told me of a hanyou.” Victoria averted her eyes to Kagome as if to gauge her reactions. Kagome was watching Victoria intently taking in every word and wishing she could just run away.
“Yeah I heard of that legend.” Kagome agreed. “Um,9 I think it says that the priestess sealed the hanyou and died, right?”
Victoria gave another humorless chuckle as she stared at nothing. “Yeah, but that isn’t where the story ends.”
“Oh!” Kagome was surprised because according to the legends, that is where the story ended Kagome never came into play. So it surprised her to hear Victoria say such a thing.
“Hm, yes there is more to the story obviously. I mean the hanyou is no longer there after all.” Victoria placed her hands on the ledge as if ready to spring out. “Fifty years after the hanyou was sealed by the priestess another mysterious and stubborn priestess came along.”
Kagome immediately took offense. “Hey! What do you mean stubborn!” Kagome demanded.
“Ha, ha. Yeah, stubborn. She was defiant, had no respect for authority and was very unorthodox. She would jump into battle without thought and would nearly get herself killed. And she wore strange clothing, giving everyone a view of her goodies.” Victoria said.
Kagome turned bright red at this. Red from embarrassment and anger. Who wrote this story anyway. “Well maybe you should give her some credit.”
“Why? It’s the truth.” Victoria continued and went back to the story. “She fell in love with the hanyou but he still loved the priestess who sealed him. But it turned out that the new priestess was the reincarnation of the old priestess. This is where the story can get confusing. The old priestess was brought back from the dead, causing a rift between the hanyou and new priestess. The new priestess was the carrier of the sacred jewel and was pure, but the old priestess wanted her life back. In the end...” Kagome quickly stood with her eyes buried under her bangs.
“Um, I think I should go a take a shower.” Kagome said quietly and turned on her heel and out the door. Leaving Victoria and her piercing eyes and sly smile behind. Kagome didn’t want to know the past and her future, she wanted to experience it. And not dread the end or look forward to it.
Victoria smiled and turned away from the window but she didn’t leave the room. She sat on the bed and let her long hair down and she ran her fingers through it. “Are you coming in or not, Inuyasha?” Victoria smiled with her eyes closed. There was a thump and Victoria opened her eyes to face the hanyou.
“How is it you smell like him?” Inuyasha demanded.
“Weren’t you listening Inuyasha.”
“He told you about me?”
“Of course, you are his Brother after all.” Victoria nearly laughed instead she almost cried. Inuyasha huffed and sat on the floor.
“So what happened to him.” Inuyasha asked.
“He was taken by his enemies, caught off guard, I don’t know if he’s still alive. They were assisted by a priestess.”
“A miko?” Inuyasha gasped.
“A dark Miko who cannot die. He told me if anything ever happened to him to go home to my family, this family.” Victoria explained. “He told me I would find you here and with the new priestess no less. I thought I would be too late.”
Inuyasha gave Victoria a confused look. “Too late for what?”
“Do you want to know how the story ends?”
“Tell me everything Sesshoumaru told you.”
Victoria leaned back on the bed. “Take me to the well.”
******
Kagome walked back into her room and found that Victoria had left, much to her relief. But Inuyasha had not returned. Kagome felt a pang of regret for stopping Victoria from finishing the legend and was overcome with extreme curiosity. Although everything was telling her otherwise, she decided to return to the feudal era that night. Kagome flopped in the bed and stared at her faithful ceiling.
“Someone knows how the story ends.” Kagome sighed to herself. “I thought our story was lost in the ages. But someone knows.” The idea didn’t comfort Kagome as she thought it might. Instead it kind of made her uneasy thinking about the end, her future, five hundred years ago.
******
Darkness had fallen and Victoria had kept to herself most of the day. All she did was lounge around the god tree in silence. When anyone would ask her what was wrong, she would simply shrug and return to her deep thoughts swimming in the swaying leaves of the tree. Inuyasha was staying out of sight from Kagome, avoiding her as much as possible. Even though he knew they should enjoy their time together while they had a chance. Inuyasha sat in the darkest branch and contemplated their ending. But he thought of the alternative, he thought about changing the future, if such a thing was at all possible. Victoria told him there was a chance, but that chance was up to them. Although the past is the past it was unknown, unwritten it could be changed, but there could be consequences. Inuyasha was ready to face those consequences for Kagome. Yes, tonight would be the night.
“Inuyasha?” Victoria whispered into the dark trees.
“What is it?” Inuyasha responded gruffly.
“He wanted me to tell you something.” Victoria’s voice was sad.
“I don’t want to hear anything that bastard has to say,” Inuyasha barked back. “I will change the future even if I have to kill Sesshoumaru and take tensegia from him.”
“And then what?” Victoria growled. “If you try to use it the result would be the same, they will die, and maybe even you.”
“So what, I’m dead anyway.”
Victoria stood and held her hair in her hands flipping over her shoulder and across her chest. She began to walk away, she spoke again without missing a step. “He says, ‘Forgive me, Brother.’” Victoria left the shocked Inuyasha with those words weighing heavily on him.
******
Kagome decided to wait until everyone was asleep to return to the feudal era, hopefully Victoria was a late sleeper and by the time she would wake up, Kagome would be believed to be in school. Kagome didn’t feel like she needed to check to make sure Victoria was asleep, she was just anxious to return to Inuyasha. Kagome didn’t feel the need to hesitate as she jumped into the well allowing the magic to claim her.
Miroku and Shippou was waiting on the other side and Sango was no where to be found. Kagome wasn’t bothered by that. But what did bother her was Inuyasha’s absence.
“Hey guys.” Kagome chirped as she climbed over the lip of the well.
“Kagome!” Shippou sprung into her waiting arms. “I’m so glad your alright!”
Kagome was confused. “Why wouldn’t I be, Shippou?” Kagome was stroking the kit’s shivering form. Miroku stepped up to answer her question.
“Inuyasha came through without you.” Miroku began, his expression passive. “Normally that wouldn’t have concerned us, but...” Miroku wasn’t sure how to approach the situation. Kagome was getting worried. “Well we did become concerned when he returned with that strange woman.” Kagome’s jaw dropped. “When we questioned her presence, Inuyasha became hostile and disappeared with her. Sango followed them, just is case.”
Kagome didn’t know where to start. It couldn’t be Victoria, she didn’t check to see if her cousin was asleep but who else could it be? “It...had to be Victoria.” Kagome said softly. “But how, why?” Kagome’s mind couldn’t even process reasons for Inuyasha bringing Victoria to the feudal era, and why neither of them wouldn’t tell her.
“Kagome I thought demons didn’t exist in your time.” Miroku questioned.
Kagome was even more confused at that point. “T-they don’t.”
“Oh, well she couldn’t have come from your time.”
“Why do you say that?”
“Because, that woman was demon.”
******
“Ken’ichi would make a fine husband for the princess.” Takashi boasted to the Lord of the western lands. “He is strong and courageous, he guards over my lands with an iron fist./php/view.php?name=ken02ichi“ The Lord of the eastern lands slapped his fist into his palm for better emphasis. “Many a youkai tremble in his presence.”
Sesshoumaru looked over the older inu youkai’s features with bored eyes. Takashi, ally of his father and a formidable opponent. His aging was really beginning to show, but that only made his appearance much more fearsome and experienced. Tall and slightly more bulky than the Inu no Tashio. His skin had that of a wolf’s tone, dark. His messy black hair was tied in a high que with accents of gray at his temples. Sesshoumaru was all to aware of the hidden daggers he placed into the ebony mess. His eyes were a deep purple and he always seemed to be sizing up every situation. Takashi flashed Sesshoumaru a toothy grin.
“Sesshoumaru, I am well aware that the princess is not of your blood, I am also aware that you seem to refuse to take a mate.” Takashi stated in a strangely gentle voice. “You will need a heir to pass your lands to.”
“And you believe I would pass my lands down to a hanyou, with no blood ties to me no less.” Sesshoumaru scoffed slightly.
“Ken’ichi’s blood is strong indeed. Just like your father’s.” Takashi continued, fully aware of Sesshoumaru’s annoyance. “I’ve heard stories of your half-brother. I must say, I’m impressed.”
“I wasn’t aware it took so little to impress you.” Sesshoumaru replied.
“You are indeed a fool young Prince.” Takashi stated lightly.
Of course not everyone could get away with insulting the perfect killer, no one in fact. That is except his own father and of course, Takashi. Without the aide of the older Lord, Sesshoumaru’s lands would have been in chaos after the death of Inu no Tashio. Unfortunately, Sesshoumaru was no match for Takashi. After Sesshoumaru learned of his father’s death he realized he would never be able to beat him in battle, and as a result surpass him in power. So he went for the Inu no Tashio’s equal and friend, Takashi. In the end, Sesshoumaru learned that there were other ways to gain power, as he laid there with his bones as well as his pride broken.
“I will take a mate when I find a female worthy of me.” Sesshoumaru began to growl.
“And if you don’t.” Takashi grinned. “You have many years ahead of you, but the princess is so very brief.” Takashi’s smile faded to quickly for Sesshoumaru’s tastes. “I know full well that she is your ward, but it is obvious that she is much more now. You would give your life for her?”
Sesshoumaru didn’t want to answer. “I would.”
“She is your daughter then, and heir to these lands?”
Sesshoumaru still did not want to answer. “She is.”
Takashi stood and politely bowed. “I want you to think about the offer, Sesshoumaru-sama.”
“I will Takashi-sama.” Sesshoumaru stood and mimicked Takashi’s actions. Sesshoumaru called out to Jaken to lead Takashi from the castle. Sesshoumaru was left alone in the almost bare office.
Ken’ichi was waiting for his father to finish up his meeting with Sesshoumaru when he caught sight of Rin. His jaw dropped. She was sitting on the ground making a crown of flowers. She had her dark hair braided and thrown over her shoulder. Her skin looked creamy and oh so soft. Her dark, piercing eyes remained transfixed on her tasks. Ken’ichi always loved Japanese women, there weren’t any where he and his father came from. But this one was particularly interesting and beautiful. He noticed that she was wearing a silk white kimono with pink pattern similar to the Lord of the house. Ken’ichi stepped back in shock, she was Princess Rin.
Rin felt eyes fixed on her and looked up. She caught the gaze of the young demon staring back at her. He was tall and could have been lean, she couldn’t tell with the bulky armor he wore. His skin was darker than any Japanese she had ever seen. And to her surprise, or relief, his black hair was relatively short. It was a nice change of pace to see a youkai without a ridicules amount of hair going down their backs. His deep, purple eyes were stripping her bare and she was mesmerized.
Unknown to Ken’ichi, his father was inside discussing his future with this very woman. Ken’ichi thought this to be forbidden fruit, but he couldn’t turn away. Even when she stood gracefully and seemed to float towards him. Ken’ichi expected a silent moment in which their eyes would meet and they would fall in love. Rin didn’t see it that way.
“Hi, I’m Rin. What’s your name?” Her voice was young and happy.
“Ken’ichi.” Was all he could say as he continued to stare.
“Come sit with me Ken’ichi.” And he did.
******
“I can’t do this.” Inuyasha’s voice was threatening to tremble. He was sitting on all fours and staring at nothing. Victoria was sitting besides him in the same fashion. She shot him a angry glare.
“Tah! You are nothing like your Brother described.” Victoria’s voice was angry and distant. “The Inuyasha he told me of would never say such a thing.” Victoria stood and turned away. “I will find them myself, I don’t need you. I’ll save them without your help.”
Inuyasha stood and turned his back to her. “Come back with me. We will all help.”
Victoria quickly turned on her heel in shock. “Y-you will? Even if it means...”
Inuyasha turned and stared Victoria in the eyes. “I will be the one to kill her, not you.”
Victoria lowered her head in defeat. “I am not here for you and Kagome’s future, I am here for Sesshoumaru’s and mine. I don’t know how I can repay you without involving myself with your fight with Naraku.”
Inuyasha snorted indignantly. “I never asked you to repay us.”
“Then why are you helping me?”
Inuyasha reached into the space between them and brought her hand into his. Victoria felt the blood rush to her cheeks. Inuyasha continued to stare into her eyes in silence. Then the moment was gone and Inuyasha had let her go. Victoria released to breath she didn’t know she was holding. The warmth from his hand burned into her skin and her memories. She remembered that touch when she was just a little girl. When Uncle Yasha pushed her on the swing and brushed her small soft hands with his rough warrior hands.
“Uncle...I mean Inuyasha.” Victoria said quietly. “I just want to see him...please. Then we can return to the village.” Inuyasha closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
“You want to see her also, right?” Inuyasha sighed.
“That’s part of it.”
“Don’t fuck things up woman.”
******
Kagome had been pacing for what seemed like hours although it was only about thirty minutes. It was still hours till sunrise and Kagome refused to relax until Inuyasha was back. She jerked her head up when she heard the rustle of the straw flap pushed aside and Sango stepped in.
“Kagome-chan! Your back.” Sango was surprised.
“Sango-chan!” Kagome stepped forward with hopeful eyes.
Sango looked around Kaede’s hut. Everyone was staring expectantly at her. “Inuyasha and the woman are heading west. For what I could understand they know each other very well. Also she seems to be inu youkai also. But her demonic aura is much weaker then Inuyasha’s. From what I could tell, she isn’t even hanyou, she’s something else.”
Kagome took Sango’s words in and turned them around over again in her mind. She remembered standing at the window and Victoria touching her shoulder. She felt it then but didn’t realized it. “She said she was my cousin when she came to my home. She is from another country. She could have been lying.” Kagome paused. “In her country she told me of a man she was with. From what I could understand he was youkai. But she didn’t go into details. Somehow she knows everything and is keeping something from my Family. We have to find them and figure out what the hell is going on.” No one spoke as Kagome made her way out of the hut, determined to find out the truth. Miroku looked at Sango once again after watching Kagome leave.
“Sango? Is that all?” Miroku asked, sensing something was amiss.
Sango looked up and met the monk’s eyes. She smiled gently. “They knew each other, you could see it in their eyes.”
Miroku only nodded and after saying their goodbyes to Kaede they followed after their friend.
******
Takashi was in shock to see his first born son smiling and wearing a crown of flowers in his head. He was alone and seemed to be looking for something. Takashi finally understood when he saw Ken’ichi jump behind a tree and princess Rin jump out. Takashi was very pleased with these turn of events. And hated the interrupt the fun.
“Ken’ichi.” Takashi called out. Ken’ichi froze for a moment and hurriedly pulled the flowers from his head.
“Father! I-“ Ken’ichi stammered searching for an explanation.
Takashi lifted his hand motioning for his son to be silent. “Son, we are leaving.”
Ken’ichi swallowed hard and looked at Rin with sad eyes. He didn’t want to leave. “Father, if it pleases you. May I join you later?” Takashi narrowed his eyes and Ken’ichi thought he knew the answer. But to his relief his father only smiled and gave him a sharp nod before walking away. Ken’ichi sighed happily and Rin took the flowers from his hand and replaced them on her new friend’s head. Then she took his hand and led him back to the tree.
Sesshoumaru watched from his window as Rin inched closer to the inu male. She looked really happy. And that sat very well with Sesshoumaru. Suddenly a familiar scent caught his nose and he looked up. Inuyasha was flying toward the castle and he wasn’t alone. Sesshoumaru inwardly groaned it was to late at night to cut his brother down. He jumped from the window to the ground and prepared to face the hanyou.
Victoria hadn’t really thought of what she was going to say. Even after Inuyasha asked her. He held her tight around the waist as he jumped from tree to tree. He seemed nervous also to face his brother without hopes for a fight. And then she saw the castle. Although it was still dark out she could see the lights from the lamps illuminate the area. Her fingers clenched to the sleeve of Inuyasha’s haori and Inuyasha squeezed her tighter.
“This is it. Are you ready?” Inuyasha whispered.
“No.” Victoria sighed.
Inuyasha rumbled something in his throat meant to be soothing. He felt Victoria relax in his grip.
“Thanks.” Victoria sighed. “My father used to do that.”
Inuyasha leaped forward. “Keh, don’t worry about it.” They landed in the clearing just before the castle gates. Sesshoumaru was standing outside the gates his arm tense and ready to reach for his sword if needed. Inuyasha heard Victoria gasp.
“Oh that’s right he doesn’t have his arm yet, it should be growing though.” Victoria stated more to herself than Inuyasha. Victoria stepped away from Inuyasha and toward the taiyoukai.
Sesshoumaru did not know what to make of the woman walking towards him. She was masking her scent quite well. There was something familiar about her eyes, he seen them before. But he didn’t know her. Sesshoumaru noticed that Inuyasha had not moved and wasn’t even looking at him. He was watching the walking girl with what appeared to be pity in his eyes. Sesshoumaru stepped forward and allowed his arm to relax. He focused his senses to try and break through the girl’s mask. She was hiding her scent for a reason. They stopped about five feet away from each other and looked into one another’s eyes. Even though Sesshoumaru could not pick up her scent, the salty smell of tears hit his nose. He looked down on her with distaste she wasn’t a human but wasn’t youkai not even hanyou. She had no business staring at him the way she did. She obviously wasn’t from this country. Maybe from Takashi’s land across the seas. But she was very attractive and she had some kind of power if she could mask her scent from his powerful nose.
“Woman,” Sesshoumaru finally spoke, because she seemed to be frozen silent. “What is your business with this Sesshoumaru?”
Victoria had been spiraling down a black hole that had suddenly opened up beneath her feet. This was what she wanted, right? To be there with him and to see the people responsible for her existence, her youkai heritage. But now it all came crashing down and she thought of all the damage she could cause. But she still existed so maybe it wasn’t all bad. She stared at the man she had loved more than anything and wanted nothing more than to run into his arms and never let go. But Victoria finally concluded that doing so probably wasn’t be the best idea. But she didn’t care anymore.
Sesshoumaru’s jaw nearly hit the dirt when Victoria jumped forward and wrapped her arms around his body. He was ready to snapped her neck when her mask dropped and her scent hit his nose. He said nothing and let the girl hold him. Sesshoumaru looked up and saw Inuyasha standing behind the raven haired woman.
“What is this, Inuyasha.” Sesshoumaru felt a lump in his throat the likes he never felt before.
Inuyasha smiled only slightly. “This is Rin’s granddaughter and your mate.”
******
Kagome rode on Kirara’s back with Sango as Miroku traveled on foot. She kicked herself over and over again for not going with her instincts on Victoria. Something about the girl just wasn’t right. But what would she had done, purify her? She was more human than demon it seemed, or maybe it was just a cover up. Kagome wondered how Victoria knew of the well and why Inuyasha would be helping her. Kagome came to a startling realization, maybe he didn’t have a choice, maybe she was controlling his mind or...something. Kagome finally thought that probably was not the case. She recalled only that morning, his reactions. Did he know she was there? And did they really know each other? Why would he not say anything, he was usually so straightforward. Kagome’s eyes grew wide as she remembered something Victoria said. His yellow eyes and white hair didn’t matter to me. That couldn’t have been Inuyasha, the future Inuyasha, could it? Kagome’s head began to ache and all she wanted was sleep. She dropped her forehead against Sango’s shoulder blade.
Sango said nothing, she was just as confused as the rest. She remembered when she followed Inuyasha and the strange woman, when he took her hand and just stared in her eyes. It was unsettling, like Inuyasha cared for her. Sango shook her head angrily. She wondered why Inuyasha had to be so stubborn, he never shows affection to Kagome like he should, but he had no qualms with touching other women. Sometime she wished she could use the subduing spell on him also, although it might be unnecessary once Kagome got through with him.
They pressed on, each knowing in what lands they were finding themselves. No doubt they would run into Inuyasha’s brother soon.
******
Sesshoumaru stood in silence as the warm being against his chest seemed to refuse to let go. He stared at Inuyasha with disbelieving eyes. He was at a loss for words which was rare for the prince who always knew the right thing to say. He knew, without Inuyasha having to tell him. The girl’s scent told him the truth. She smelled of rain falling on waterfalls. But there was something else it was joined with. Forests and silk, his scent. But deep within her almost indiscernible by lesser noses. Was the scent of lilies and fire. It was the scent of Rin and her new suitor, Ken’ichi. She was their family, there was no denying it. But if that wasn’t strange enough this woman had something stronger almost over taking her scent and Sesshoumaru was stunned by it.
“You probably want to know what the hell is going on.” Inuyasha interrupted Sesshoumaru’s spiraling reverie.
“That thought has crossed my mind little brother.” Sesshoumaru stated dryly. Suddenly Sesshoumaru realized that he still had yet to remove the girl that so boldly attached herself to him. But strangely he didn’t care as much as he thought he should. Sternly he cleared his throat and the girl seemed to cringe slightly. Sesshoumaru noticed a slither of light shining against his chest and a warm, gentle sensation. Victoria began to pull away and the light grew brighter. It was coming from her brow, Sesshoumaru squinted slightly and the light began to fade and in it’s place was a dark pink crescent moon. Sesshoumaru stared at the moon for a long moment. And finally he heard her silky voice for the first time.
“Sesshoumaru.” She said softly. “I...I’m so sorry.”
Sesshoumaru was silent as he turned her words over in his head. “Woman who are you, were do you come from?”
Inuyasha took another step forward and Sesshoumaru glared at him, his instincts to protect this female already kicking in, even though he knew nothing about her. Inuyasha stopped, realizing what Sesshoumaru had sensed the same thing he did the moment Kagome had bursted through her door that morning telling him to leave. Inuyasha didn’t argue, he couldn’t, something about the scent coming toward the room told him to just leave and wait for the right moment to ask questions. He couldn’t very well hurt the woman who smelled of his damnable brother, especially in her condition.
Inuyasha lowered his head slightly, he hated to submit to his brother and never thought he would see the day when he would have to. But he wasn’t there to fight and Sesshoumaru was full youkai, he would protect this particular female without hesitation. If not her, his future growing within her. “Sesshoumaru.” Inuyasha said as calmly as possible. Remembering Victoria’s words, about brother’s and fights and forgiveness. He did forgive his older brother, even though Sesshoumaru still had five hundred years before he asked for it. Inuyasha knew Victoria was too exhausted to recount the future, so he stepped up. “Her name is Victoria, she comes from Kagome’s time.”
Who? Sesshoumaru was already confused, by Inuyasha words and his own feelings. This woman meant nothing to him and he was already laying claim to her, even though apparently he already had. Inuyasha saw the look of sheer confusion breaking through the emotionless facade he always wore.
“The miko I travel with.” Inuyasha clarified. “This woman is her cousin. She came from a country across the waters to come through Kagome’s well and reach this time. Naraku was never killed, he is still alive five hundred years from now.” Inuyasha nearly choked on the words. It was so hard to believe. He remembered all the close encounters when Naraku was nearly destroyed it was so hard to believe that he still lives, still causing pain wherever he went. And what hurt even more was the one person he’d never expect was helping him. “K-Kikyou is with him, I mean the priestess who sealed me for fifty years. Before Kagome released me.”
******
Naraku sat alone in his castle, the almost complete sacred jewel clutched in his fist.
He was growing impatient although he did enjoy twisting Inuyasha and his friends hearts with Kohaku and the wolf could easily be over taken. He didn’t really need the jewel to be complete. He occasionally took other shards off anyway to fulfill his needs. There was just one problem he need to take of. Kikyou. Kagura, Kohaku and Hakudoshi still searched for the elusive miko all over the lands and still nothing. She was the only one with the power to destroy him. So he had to get to her first. But killing her wasn’t a option anymore, he already tried that on more than one occasion. No, he wouldn’t kill her this time. But he had to neutralize the threat somehow. He nearly gasped at he own idea as he eyed the jewel in his hand.
******
Much to Victoria’s insistence, Rin was left out of the loop and the she remained outside with Ken’ichi while Sesshoumaru led his guests to his office. Victoria seemed unfazed by her surroundings, she was preoccupied with the youkai in front of her. Inuyasha was extremely uncomfortable in his older brother’s home. Inside the walls there was no where to move freely. He was easy prey for the taiyoukai. But fortunately Sesshoumaru seemed uninterested in battle and more interested in the woman from the future, carrying his child.
******
Kagome and her friends finally reached a clearing in which a castle wasn’t far along.
“I believe the castle belongs to the lord of these lands.” Miroku pointed out.
“Sesshoumaru?” Sango asked. Kagome took in a sharp breath. She was praying that Inuyasha was okay. “Do you think we should see if Inuyasha is here?” Sango continued.
“I don’t see any reason why he would be, but I supposed it wouldn’t be of any harm to ask.” Miroku promptly responded. Although he wasn’t feeling to sure about the situation himself. But it seemed that now they had no choice for Rin and Ken’ichi was already outside the gates to greet them.
“Kagome-sama!” Rin called out as she waved happily. Ken’ichi didn’t seem to hospitable as he gave Rin and kiss on the cheek and disappeared into the forest without a word to the visitors.
“Wow Rin, you really grown up since we last met.” Kagome smiled down on the blushing girl. “Was that your intended.”
Rin blushed deeper. “Well, yes I suppose.” Rin politely bowed to Sango and Miroku. “Are you looking for Inuyasha-sama and his friend, I think they went to the office.” Rin turned to lead the group into the castle. Kagome’s heart was in her throat. She vowed she was going to sit Inuyasha into oblivion for leaving without explanation.
“Inuyasha, your friends have arrived.” Sesshoumaru said as he stared at Victoria. His mind was still overturning with her fantastic story. “I will show my guest to her room. You may go now.”
Inuyasha glared at Sesshoumaru. “No way am I leaving her here with you.”
Sesshoumaru was quick to return the look full of daggers. “She will be safe here, while I find Naraku and the priestess.”
“I don’t think so! You won’t touch Kikyou, she’s mine to--” Inuyasha wish he hadn’t said that. Kagome was right outside the door, but Inuyasha didn’t catch himself in time.
“Osuwari!” She called out as she opened as she continued the attack. “Osuwari! Osuwari! OSUWARI!!!” Kagome chanted the words like mantra. For Sesshoumaru’s part he didn’t mind seeing his brother being pummeled into the ground, but right now it just seemed inappropriate. Gracefully he stood.
“Miko.” Sesshoumaru said calmly. “Stop.”
Kagome did as she was told. She shot a angry look at Sesshoumaru which quickly morphed into a apologetic expression. “What’s going on?”
Victoria peek out from over Sesshoumaru’s shoulder. “Kagome? What are you doing here?” She questioned almost angrily.
“You!” Kagome pointed a accusing finger at her so called cousin. “Just who the hell are you anyway! Your not my cousin are you.”
“Yes, I am.” Victoria answered. “My mother is your mother’s sister. And my father...is Rin’s son.”
At that moment Kagome didn’t know what to think, she had so many questions but didn’t know where to start. So she opted to ask about the current situation they were in now. “Why are you here now?”
Victoria lowered her head but her expression never change. Sesshoumaru watched with interest. “Kagome, do you remember the man I was in love with, the one with the white hair and yellow eyes I told you of.” Kagome didn’t like where this was going. Victoria continued. “I met Sesshoumaru on my nineteenth birthday, I’m his mate and I’m pregnant with his child.” Kagome was glad Inuyasha was still recovering from her wrath. He broke her fall.
******
It was been awhile since Naraku had appeared and Kikyou was getting restless. She found a nice small village on the outskirts of the western lands. She knew Inuyasha’s brother was lord of the lands, so maybe she would run into the wandering hanyou eventually. Until then she acted as the village miko for the good people of the village. Sometimes she almost wanted Naraku to find her, she opted not to kill anymore of his samiyoshou if they came buzzing over the village. She needed excitement. And suddenly as if hearing her prayer, Naraku’s faithful insects did in fact fly over. They paused and stared Kikyou straight in the face, before quickly flying away.
“Well that was certainly fast, Naraku.” Kikyou said with her tragic smile before following after the poison insects.
68ZIZ321 6]^
I Don’t Own Inuyasha. But I do own me.
Kagome woke with a start, she was in her nice warm bed with her nice warm cat. Inuyasha was sitting in the corner of her bedroom sleeping peacefully. Kagome smiled, Inuyasha had hardly let her alone in her own time for more than a night. Kagome wondered what woke her up, she was soon answered.
“Kagome!” It was the voice of her Mother, she sounded upset. Inuyasha stirred slightly but didn’t awaken as Kagome brushed past him and out the door to her Mother. It was very early from what Kagome could tell and was concerned by the intensity of her Mother’s voice. Kagome could see her Mother waiting at the bottom of the steps, she was frowning and her eyes were red from crying.
Kagome paused with shocked. “Mama! What happened.” Kagome’s mind swarmed with possibilities. Grandpa? Souta? Is everyone okay. Kagome’s heart was pounding in her throat.
“Kagome it’s alright, we have a guest.” Her Mother’s voice was shaking slightly, someone brought bad news. It hurt. Kagome gently padded down the stairs and joined her Mother’s side. “It is a member of our Family from America.” Mama softly explained.
“America?” Kagome mouthed mutely. She wasn’t aware of Family in America, no, scratch that, she was vaguely aware of Family in America. A grandfather, a aunt a uncle, and a cousin. A Grandfather on her Mother’s side. He left for America over thirty years ago leaving his wife and child in Japan alone. Kagome’s Mother doesn’t talk about her Father or the half sister he sired, and hides behind a forgiving facade whenever Kagome or her Brother, Souta asks about him. And now Kagome’s Mother was crying, a action Kagome hasn’t seen since the death of her Father. Someone died.
“Kagome, I want you to be polite, she will be staying with us for a while.” Mama said cryptically. She led Kagome to the family room of their home.
“Uh, what.” Was all Kagome could think to say. She will be staying with us for a while?
Kagome was dumbstruck.
Kagome turned into the doorway of the family room, the young girl was standing with her back to Kagome. Kagome’s jaw nearly dropped when her vision was filled with amazing ebony hair. It had to reach down to at least the girl’s knees but she had it up in a high ponytail that brushed her butt.
“Victoria?” Kagome’s Mother warbled. The girl referred to as Victoria slowly turned. And Kagome had her doubts to Victoria’s Japanese heritage. She had brown skin and was very tall and curvy. She wasn’t exactly thin but was far from unattractive. Curvy and slightly busty, she had very dark eyes and could have been Asian from the slant of her eyes. But she was obliviously a foreigner. Kagome became uneasy when she noticed the twin sai swords at the woman’s hip, they gave her the slight feeling she got when she sensed a demonic aura.
Victoria gave Kagome a brilliant and beautiful smile. “Ohayo gozaimasu.” Victoria chirped with a perfect accent.
Kagome smiled back apprehensively and replied. “Ohayo, Victoria-san.” Kagome was taken back when Victoria leaped into her arms and squeezed with a loving hug. She had to be about three or four years older than Kagome and she was much taller. But her voice and her face was young and happy.
“I’m so happy to meet you Kagome.” Victoria smiled as she pulled away. “I always wanted to meet my only cousins and my aunt. Sorry it was under these circumstances.”
“What are these circumstances?” Kagome asked.
Victoria’s smile slowly faded and she lowered her head slightly. “Unfortunately I lost my Family in a fire on Thanksgiving, I was with a friend when it happened.” Kagome placed her hand over her mouth in shock. That was so sad, losing your family on a day of Family togetherness. “I was always aware of you, but I was afraid to contact you. I was living with my friend, but...” Victoria trailed off. Kagome placed a sympathetic hand on her cousin’s shoulder. Victoria looked up and felt compelled to continue. “He...he was taken from me.” Victoria choked out.
Kagome knew not to ask questions. “It’s alright, welcome to our home.” Kagome was about to give a reassuring smile, but she was interrupted by a reality dropping thump. Inuyasha.
“Um, are there others?” Victoria asked, Grandpa and Souta was already downstairs, so who else.
Kagome chuckled nervously. “No, no that was only the cat.” Kagome lied. Victoria raised a questioning eyebrow and looked down on the cat that was grunting and rubbing against her leg. Kagome chuckled again. “Oh that must have been that darn dog.” Kagome made a quick exit before Victoria had a chance to ask anymore questions. Victoria narrowed her eyes slightly, she wasn’t going to let on that she knew full well that it wasn’t a dog. Victoria was able to tell exactly what made the noise, but she wasn’t one to pry. After all that’s why she’s in the situation she’s in now. But she had to see him, she needed to see him again.
Kagome’s Mother wasn’t aware that Inuyasha had slept in her daughter’s room, so the noises came as a surprise to her also. She noticed Victoria beginning to follow Kagome slowly and began to regret inviting her niece to stay. She hadn’t thought of the explanations she would need for Kagome’s frequent absences. And now the world came tumbling down. Mama wasn’t fast enough it seemed, or was it simply that Victoria was to quick, she couldn’t tell. But Victoria was already up the stairs behind Kagome.
Kagome wasn’t sure when she knew that her secret was in danger, but when the reality of it all finally came down on her, she felt like she was caught in a death vise, between the world she grew in and the world she now called home. If Victoria didn’t or couldn’t understand, Kagome would find that her choice between the worlds would come sooner that expected. Inuyasha was thumping around her little room, probably pacing. He was unaware that things may change dramatically for him and Kagome. Especially since he would be soon face to face with someone from his future.
Kagome had burst through the room and slammed the door behind her. Inuyasha was scratching in the middle of her floor. He didn’t seem to acknowledge Kagome at first, there was something on his mind but Kagome didn’t have time to ask questions.
“Inuyasha! You have to get out of here!” Kagome quickly sputtered out. Inuyasha stood and faced Kagome. She was taken back by the sheer confusion and at the same time angry scowl Inuyasha wore over his features. But he didn’t respond, he simply turned and jumped out the window. Kagome stood in bewilderment before a knock on her door jarred her from her thoughts. Victoria didn’t wait for a reply before opening the door.
“Kagome-san!” Victoria smiled and entered. Kagome was still staring out the window Inuyasha jumped through, Victoria placed her hand on Kagome’s shoulder. Kagome for her part was intently thinking of Inuyasha’s reaction, he never acted that way before, unless something truly important is on his mind, like when he runs to Kikyou. Kagome jumped at the touch on her shoulder and felt a strange sensation from it like being touched by some magical force. But then the sensation was gone not even a second later. “Kagome-san?” Victoria asked again. “Are you alright?”
Kagome turned to Victoria quickly and gave her a feign smile. “Oh, of course I’m fine.” Kagome lied. “I’m just a little tired.” That was the truth.
“Ah,” Victoria began. “And...the dog?” Victoria gave Kagome’s shocked expression a sly smile.
Kagome nearly choked on a nervous chuckle. “Oh that’s funny, he likes to jump out the window sometimes.”
“Uh, we’re on the second floor.” Victoria pointed out.
“Yeah, he can handle it.” Kagome laughed. She watched as Victoria stared out the window, and Kagome prayed that Inuyasha wasn’t prowling the grounds in full view.
“Kagome-san?” Victoria said quietly. “There are some strange things out there.” Victoria had a small smirk playing on her lips and Kagome rushed back to the window just to make sure. But Victoria was staring at Goshinkubo. “My friend...he was a strange one, but he was the best.”
Kagome felt like Victoria had some secrets but it wasn’t her place to ask. “Victoria-san may I ask what happened with your friend?” Kagome asked anyway out of sheer curiosity.
Victoria continued to stare at Goshinkubo without responding. Kagome had thought she hit a sore spot and began to stumble over a apology until Victoria sighed and shook her head.
“No, Kagome it’s fine. After all we’re family, no secrets.” Victoria seemed to emit a dry, humorless chuckle. Kagome found it unsettling, it reminded her of Inuyasha’s youkai half brother, Sesshoumaru. Victoria interrupted Kagome’s thoughts. “I was in love with him.” Kagome shot her head up, Victoria was looking at her with a sad smile. “It took awhile for us to admit it to each other though.” Victoria laughed a real laugh this time and flopped on Kagome’s bed. “He wasn’t the type to really express his feelings. He had the strangest eyes I’ve ever seen. And I was instantly drawn into them. He made it his business to ignore me at first, but I’m the type who never gives up. He finally asked me out about six months of cat and mouse.” Victoria furrowed her brow as if something confused her. “He always got the strangest stares...I mean I know why but I saw him for what he really was, and suddenly his yellow eyes and white hair was the least important things about him.”
Kagome had to stop her there. “Yellow eyes and white hair!” Suddenly a heavy word knocked her flat. Youkai.
Victoria flashed a bright smile. “Yeah, he was friends with my Father. He was a tough guy, never afraid of a good fight. Just like my Dad. They were allies from years ago.” Victoria’s smile faded. “He was tough, strong but he had a side he only showed me. That side was sweet and gentle. After the fire he took me to his home and I stayed with him for about four months before...” Victoria quickly stood and went back to the window. “You know, he once told me of a tree that transcends time itself.” Kagome shifted uncomfortably. “He told me of a legend from five hundred years ago, about a priestess and a magic seal and a jewel. He told me of a hanyou.” Victoria averted her eyes to Kagome as if to gauge her reactions. Kagome was watching Victoria intently taking in every word and wishing she could just run away.
“Yeah I heard of that legend.” Kagome agreed. “Um,9 I think it says that the priestess sealed the hanyou and died, right?”
Victoria gave another humorless chuckle as she stared at nothing. “Yeah, but that isn’t where the story ends.”
“Oh!” Kagome was surprised because according to the legends, that is where the story ended Kagome never came into play. So it surprised her to hear Victoria say such a thing.
“Hm, yes there is more to the story obviously. I mean the hanyou is no longer there after all.” Victoria placed her hands on the ledge as if ready to spring out. “Fifty years after the hanyou was sealed by the priestess another mysterious and stubborn priestess came along.”
Kagome immediately took offense. “Hey! What do you mean stubborn!” Kagome demanded.
“Ha, ha. Yeah, stubborn. She was defiant, had no respect for authority and was very unorthodox. She would jump into battle without thought and would nearly get herself killed. And she wore strange clothing, giving everyone a view of her goodies.” Victoria said.
Kagome turned bright red at this. Red from embarrassment and anger. Who wrote this story anyway. “Well maybe you should give her some credit.”
“Why? It’s the truth.” Victoria continued and went back to the story. “She fell in love with the hanyou but he still loved the priestess who sealed him. But it turned out that the new priestess was the reincarnation of the old priestess. This is where the story can get confusing. The old priestess was brought back from the dead, causing a rift between the hanyou and new priestess. The new priestess was the carrier of the sacred jewel and was pure, but the old priestess wanted her life back. In the end...” Kagome quickly stood with her eyes buried under her bangs.
“Um, I think I should go a take a shower.” Kagome said quietly and turned on her heel and out the door. Leaving Victoria and her piercing eyes and sly smile behind. Kagome didn’t want to know the past and her future, she wanted to experience it. And not dread the end or look forward to it.
Victoria smiled and turned away from the window but she didn’t leave the room. She sat on the bed and let her long hair down and she ran her fingers through it. “Are you coming in or not, Inuyasha?” Victoria smiled with her eyes closed. There was a thump and Victoria opened her eyes to face the hanyou.
“How is it you smell like him?” Inuyasha demanded.
“Weren’t you listening Inuyasha.”
“He told you about me?”
“Of course, you are his Brother after all.” Victoria nearly laughed instead she almost cried. Inuyasha huffed and sat on the floor.
“So what happened to him.” Inuyasha asked.
“He was taken by his enemies, caught off guard, I don’t know if he’s still alive. They were assisted by a priestess.”
“A miko?” Inuyasha gasped.
“A dark Miko who cannot die. He told me if anything ever happened to him to go home to my family, this family.” Victoria explained. “He told me I would find you here and with the new priestess no less. I thought I would be too late.”
Inuyasha gave Victoria a confused look. “Too late for what?”
“Do you want to know how the story ends?”
“Tell me everything Sesshoumaru told you.”
Victoria leaned back on the bed. “Take me to the well.”
******
Kagome walked back into her room and found that Victoria had left, much to her relief. But Inuyasha had not returned. Kagome felt a pang of regret for stopping Victoria from finishing the legend and was overcome with extreme curiosity. Although everything was telling her otherwise, she decided to return to the feudal era that night. Kagome flopped in the bed and stared at her faithful ceiling.
“Someone knows how the story ends.” Kagome sighed to herself. “I thought our story was lost in the ages. But someone knows.” The idea didn’t comfort Kagome as she thought it might. Instead it kind of made her uneasy thinking about the end, her future, five hundred years ago.
******
Darkness had fallen and Victoria had kept to herself most of the day. All she did was lounge around the god tree in silence. When anyone would ask her what was wrong, she would simply shrug and return to her deep thoughts swimming in the swaying leaves of the tree. Inuyasha was staying out of sight from Kagome, avoiding her as much as possible. Even though he knew they should enjoy their time together while they had a chance. Inuyasha sat in the darkest branch and contemplated their ending. But he thought of the alternative, he thought about changing the future, if such a thing was at all possible. Victoria told him there was a chance, but that chance was up to them. Although the past is the past it was unknown, unwritten it could be changed, but there could be consequences. Inuyasha was ready to face those consequences for Kagome. Yes, tonight would be the night.
“Inuyasha?” Victoria whispered into the dark trees.
“What is it?” Inuyasha responded gruffly.
“He wanted me to tell you something.” Victoria’s voice was sad.
“I don’t want to hear anything that bastard has to say,” Inuyasha barked back. “I will change the future even if I have to kill Sesshoumaru and take tensegia from him.”
“And then what?” Victoria growled. “If you try to use it the result would be the same, they will die, and maybe even you.”
“So what, I’m dead anyway.”
Victoria stood and held her hair in her hands flipping over her shoulder and across her chest. She began to walk away, she spoke again without missing a step. “He says, ‘Forgive me, Brother.’” Victoria left the shocked Inuyasha with those words weighing heavily on him.
******
Kagome decided to wait until everyone was asleep to return to the feudal era, hopefully Victoria was a late sleeper and by the time she would wake up, Kagome would be believed to be in school. Kagome didn’t feel like she needed to check to make sure Victoria was asleep, she was just anxious to return to Inuyasha. Kagome didn’t feel the need to hesitate as she jumped into the well allowing the magic to claim her.
Miroku and Shippou was waiting on the other side and Sango was no where to be found. Kagome wasn’t bothered by that. But what did bother her was Inuyasha’s absence.
“Hey guys.” Kagome chirped as she climbed over the lip of the well.
“Kagome!” Shippou sprung into her waiting arms. “I’m so glad your alright!”
Kagome was confused. “Why wouldn’t I be, Shippou?” Kagome was stroking the kit’s shivering form. Miroku stepped up to answer her question.
“Inuyasha came through without you.” Miroku began, his expression passive. “Normally that wouldn’t have concerned us, but...” Miroku wasn’t sure how to approach the situation. Kagome was getting worried. “Well we did become concerned when he returned with that strange woman.” Kagome’s jaw dropped. “When we questioned her presence, Inuyasha became hostile and disappeared with her. Sango followed them, just is case.”
Kagome didn’t know where to start. It couldn’t be Victoria, she didn’t check to see if her cousin was asleep but who else could it be? “It...had to be Victoria.” Kagome said softly. “But how, why?” Kagome’s mind couldn’t even process reasons for Inuyasha bringing Victoria to the feudal era, and why neither of them wouldn’t tell her.
“Kagome I thought demons didn’t exist in your time.” Miroku questioned.
Kagome was even more confused at that point. “T-they don’t.”
“Oh, well she couldn’t have come from your time.”
“Why do you say that?”
“Because, that woman was demon.”
******
“Ken’ichi would make a fine husband for the princess.” Takashi boasted to the Lord of the western lands. “He is strong and courageous, he guards over my lands with an iron fist./php/view.php?name=ken02ichi“ The Lord of the eastern lands slapped his fist into his palm for better emphasis. “Many a youkai tremble in his presence.”
Sesshoumaru looked over the older inu youkai’s features with bored eyes. Takashi, ally of his father and a formidable opponent. His aging was really beginning to show, but that only made his appearance much more fearsome and experienced. Tall and slightly more bulky than the Inu no Tashio. His skin had that of a wolf’s tone, dark. His messy black hair was tied in a high que with accents of gray at his temples. Sesshoumaru was all to aware of the hidden daggers he placed into the ebony mess. His eyes were a deep purple and he always seemed to be sizing up every situation. Takashi flashed Sesshoumaru a toothy grin.
“Sesshoumaru, I am well aware that the princess is not of your blood, I am also aware that you seem to refuse to take a mate.” Takashi stated in a strangely gentle voice. “You will need a heir to pass your lands to.”
“And you believe I would pass my lands down to a hanyou, with no blood ties to me no less.” Sesshoumaru scoffed slightly.
“Ken’ichi’s blood is strong indeed. Just like your father’s.” Takashi continued, fully aware of Sesshoumaru’s annoyance. “I’ve heard stories of your half-brother. I must say, I’m impressed.”
“I wasn’t aware it took so little to impress you.” Sesshoumaru replied.
“You are indeed a fool young Prince.” Takashi stated lightly.
Of course not everyone could get away with insulting the perfect killer, no one in fact. That is except his own father and of course, Takashi. Without the aide of the older Lord, Sesshoumaru’s lands would have been in chaos after the death of Inu no Tashio. Unfortunately, Sesshoumaru was no match for Takashi. After Sesshoumaru learned of his father’s death he realized he would never be able to beat him in battle, and as a result surpass him in power. So he went for the Inu no Tashio’s equal and friend, Takashi. In the end, Sesshoumaru learned that there were other ways to gain power, as he laid there with his bones as well as his pride broken.
“I will take a mate when I find a female worthy of me.” Sesshoumaru began to growl.
“And if you don’t.” Takashi grinned. “You have many years ahead of you, but the princess is so very brief.” Takashi’s smile faded to quickly for Sesshoumaru’s tastes. “I know full well that she is your ward, but it is obvious that she is much more now. You would give your life for her?”
Sesshoumaru didn’t want to answer. “I would.”
“She is your daughter then, and heir to these lands?”
Sesshoumaru still did not want to answer. “She is.”
Takashi stood and politely bowed. “I want you to think about the offer, Sesshoumaru-sama.”
“I will Takashi-sama.” Sesshoumaru stood and mimicked Takashi’s actions. Sesshoumaru called out to Jaken to lead Takashi from the castle. Sesshoumaru was left alone in the almost bare office.
Ken’ichi was waiting for his father to finish up his meeting with Sesshoumaru when he caught sight of Rin. His jaw dropped. She was sitting on the ground making a crown of flowers. She had her dark hair braided and thrown over her shoulder. Her skin looked creamy and oh so soft. Her dark, piercing eyes remained transfixed on her tasks. Ken’ichi always loved Japanese women, there weren’t any where he and his father came from. But this one was particularly interesting and beautiful. He noticed that she was wearing a silk white kimono with pink pattern similar to the Lord of the house. Ken’ichi stepped back in shock, she was Princess Rin.
Rin felt eyes fixed on her and looked up. She caught the gaze of the young demon staring back at her. He was tall and could have been lean, she couldn’t tell with the bulky armor he wore. His skin was darker than any Japanese she had ever seen. And to her surprise, or relief, his black hair was relatively short. It was a nice change of pace to see a youkai without a ridicules amount of hair going down their backs. His deep, purple eyes were stripping her bare and she was mesmerized.
Unknown to Ken’ichi, his father was inside discussing his future with this very woman. Ken’ichi thought this to be forbidden fruit, but he couldn’t turn away. Even when she stood gracefully and seemed to float towards him. Ken’ichi expected a silent moment in which their eyes would meet and they would fall in love. Rin didn’t see it that way.
“Hi, I’m Rin. What’s your name?” Her voice was young and happy.
“Ken’ichi.” Was all he could say as he continued to stare.
“Come sit with me Ken’ichi.” And he did.
******
“I can’t do this.” Inuyasha’s voice was threatening to tremble. He was sitting on all fours and staring at nothing. Victoria was sitting besides him in the same fashion. She shot him a angry glare.
“Tah! You are nothing like your Brother described.” Victoria’s voice was angry and distant. “The Inuyasha he told me of would never say such a thing.” Victoria stood and turned away. “I will find them myself, I don’t need you. I’ll save them without your help.”
Inuyasha stood and turned his back to her. “Come back with me. We will all help.”
Victoria quickly turned on her heel in shock. “Y-you will? Even if it means...”
Inuyasha turned and stared Victoria in the eyes. “I will be the one to kill her, not you.”
Victoria lowered her head in defeat. “I am not here for you and Kagome’s future, I am here for Sesshoumaru’s and mine. I don’t know how I can repay you without involving myself with your fight with Naraku.”
Inuyasha snorted indignantly. “I never asked you to repay us.”
“Then why are you helping me?”
Inuyasha reached into the space between them and brought her hand into his. Victoria felt the blood rush to her cheeks. Inuyasha continued to stare into her eyes in silence. Then the moment was gone and Inuyasha had let her go. Victoria released to breath she didn’t know she was holding. The warmth from his hand burned into her skin and her memories. She remembered that touch when she was just a little girl. When Uncle Yasha pushed her on the swing and brushed her small soft hands with his rough warrior hands.
“Uncle...I mean Inuyasha.” Victoria said quietly. “I just want to see him...please. Then we can return to the village.” Inuyasha closed his eyes and took a deep breath.
“You want to see her also, right?” Inuyasha sighed.
“That’s part of it.”
“Don’t fuck things up woman.”
******
Kagome had been pacing for what seemed like hours although it was only about thirty minutes. It was still hours till sunrise and Kagome refused to relax until Inuyasha was back. She jerked her head up when she heard the rustle of the straw flap pushed aside and Sango stepped in.
“Kagome-chan! Your back.” Sango was surprised.
“Sango-chan!” Kagome stepped forward with hopeful eyes.
Sango looked around Kaede’s hut. Everyone was staring expectantly at her. “Inuyasha and the woman are heading west. For what I could understand they know each other very well. Also she seems to be inu youkai also. But her demonic aura is much weaker then Inuyasha’s. From what I could tell, she isn’t even hanyou, she’s something else.”
Kagome took Sango’s words in and turned them around over again in her mind. She remembered standing at the window and Victoria touching her shoulder. She felt it then but didn’t realized it. “She said she was my cousin when she came to my home. She is from another country. She could have been lying.” Kagome paused. “In her country she told me of a man she was with. From what I could understand he was youkai. But she didn’t go into details. Somehow she knows everything and is keeping something from my Family. We have to find them and figure out what the hell is going on.” No one spoke as Kagome made her way out of the hut, determined to find out the truth. Miroku looked at Sango once again after watching Kagome leave.
“Sango? Is that all?” Miroku asked, sensing something was amiss.
Sango looked up and met the monk’s eyes. She smiled gently. “They knew each other, you could see it in their eyes.”
Miroku only nodded and after saying their goodbyes to Kaede they followed after their friend.
******
Takashi was in shock to see his first born son smiling and wearing a crown of flowers in his head. He was alone and seemed to be looking for something. Takashi finally understood when he saw Ken’ichi jump behind a tree and princess Rin jump out. Takashi was very pleased with these turn of events. And hated the interrupt the fun.
“Ken’ichi.” Takashi called out. Ken’ichi froze for a moment and hurriedly pulled the flowers from his head.
“Father! I-“ Ken’ichi stammered searching for an explanation.
Takashi lifted his hand motioning for his son to be silent. “Son, we are leaving.”
Ken’ichi swallowed hard and looked at Rin with sad eyes. He didn’t want to leave. “Father, if it pleases you. May I join you later?” Takashi narrowed his eyes and Ken’ichi thought he knew the answer. But to his relief his father only smiled and gave him a sharp nod before walking away. Ken’ichi sighed happily and Rin took the flowers from his hand and replaced them on her new friend’s head. Then she took his hand and led him back to the tree.
Sesshoumaru watched from his window as Rin inched closer to the inu male. She looked really happy. And that sat very well with Sesshoumaru. Suddenly a familiar scent caught his nose and he looked up. Inuyasha was flying toward the castle and he wasn’t alone. Sesshoumaru inwardly groaned it was to late at night to cut his brother down. He jumped from the window to the ground and prepared to face the hanyou.
Victoria hadn’t really thought of what she was going to say. Even after Inuyasha asked her. He held her tight around the waist as he jumped from tree to tree. He seemed nervous also to face his brother without hopes for a fight. And then she saw the castle. Although it was still dark out she could see the lights from the lamps illuminate the area. Her fingers clenched to the sleeve of Inuyasha’s haori and Inuyasha squeezed her tighter.
“This is it. Are you ready?” Inuyasha whispered.
“No.” Victoria sighed.
Inuyasha rumbled something in his throat meant to be soothing. He felt Victoria relax in his grip.
“Thanks.” Victoria sighed. “My father used to do that.”
Inuyasha leaped forward. “Keh, don’t worry about it.” They landed in the clearing just before the castle gates. Sesshoumaru was standing outside the gates his arm tense and ready to reach for his sword if needed. Inuyasha heard Victoria gasp.
“Oh that’s right he doesn’t have his arm yet, it should be growing though.” Victoria stated more to herself than Inuyasha. Victoria stepped away from Inuyasha and toward the taiyoukai.
Sesshoumaru did not know what to make of the woman walking towards him. She was masking her scent quite well. There was something familiar about her eyes, he seen them before. But he didn’t know her. Sesshoumaru noticed that Inuyasha had not moved and wasn’t even looking at him. He was watching the walking girl with what appeared to be pity in his eyes. Sesshoumaru stepped forward and allowed his arm to relax. He focused his senses to try and break through the girl’s mask. She was hiding her scent for a reason. They stopped about five feet away from each other and looked into one another’s eyes. Even though Sesshoumaru could not pick up her scent, the salty smell of tears hit his nose. He looked down on her with distaste she wasn’t a human but wasn’t youkai not even hanyou. She had no business staring at him the way she did. She obviously wasn’t from this country. Maybe from Takashi’s land across the seas. But she was very attractive and she had some kind of power if she could mask her scent from his powerful nose.
“Woman,” Sesshoumaru finally spoke, because she seemed to be frozen silent. “What is your business with this Sesshoumaru?”
Victoria had been spiraling down a black hole that had suddenly opened up beneath her feet. This was what she wanted, right? To be there with him and to see the people responsible for her existence, her youkai heritage. But now it all came crashing down and she thought of all the damage she could cause. But she still existed so maybe it wasn’t all bad. She stared at the man she had loved more than anything and wanted nothing more than to run into his arms and never let go. But Victoria finally concluded that doing so probably wasn’t be the best idea. But she didn’t care anymore.
Sesshoumaru’s jaw nearly hit the dirt when Victoria jumped forward and wrapped her arms around his body. He was ready to snapped her neck when her mask dropped and her scent hit his nose. He said nothing and let the girl hold him. Sesshoumaru looked up and saw Inuyasha standing behind the raven haired woman.
“What is this, Inuyasha.” Sesshoumaru felt a lump in his throat the likes he never felt before.
Inuyasha smiled only slightly. “This is Rin’s granddaughter and your mate.”
******
Kagome rode on Kirara’s back with Sango as Miroku traveled on foot. She kicked herself over and over again for not going with her instincts on Victoria. Something about the girl just wasn’t right. But what would she had done, purify her? She was more human than demon it seemed, or maybe it was just a cover up. Kagome wondered how Victoria knew of the well and why Inuyasha would be helping her. Kagome came to a startling realization, maybe he didn’t have a choice, maybe she was controlling his mind or...something. Kagome finally thought that probably was not the case. She recalled only that morning, his reactions. Did he know she was there? And did they really know each other? Why would he not say anything, he was usually so straightforward. Kagome’s eyes grew wide as she remembered something Victoria said. His yellow eyes and white hair didn’t matter to me. That couldn’t have been Inuyasha, the future Inuyasha, could it? Kagome’s head began to ache and all she wanted was sleep. She dropped her forehead against Sango’s shoulder blade.
Sango said nothing, she was just as confused as the rest. She remembered when she followed Inuyasha and the strange woman, when he took her hand and just stared in her eyes. It was unsettling, like Inuyasha cared for her. Sango shook her head angrily. She wondered why Inuyasha had to be so stubborn, he never shows affection to Kagome like he should, but he had no qualms with touching other women. Sometime she wished she could use the subduing spell on him also, although it might be unnecessary once Kagome got through with him.
They pressed on, each knowing in what lands they were finding themselves. No doubt they would run into Inuyasha’s brother soon.
******
Sesshoumaru stood in silence as the warm being against his chest seemed to refuse to let go. He stared at Inuyasha with disbelieving eyes. He was at a loss for words which was rare for the prince who always knew the right thing to say. He knew, without Inuyasha having to tell him. The girl’s scent told him the truth. She smelled of rain falling on waterfalls. But there was something else it was joined with. Forests and silk, his scent. But deep within her almost indiscernible by lesser noses. Was the scent of lilies and fire. It was the scent of Rin and her new suitor, Ken’ichi. She was their family, there was no denying it. But if that wasn’t strange enough this woman had something stronger almost over taking her scent and Sesshoumaru was stunned by it.
“You probably want to know what the hell is going on.” Inuyasha interrupted Sesshoumaru’s spiraling reverie.
“That thought has crossed my mind little brother.” Sesshoumaru stated dryly. Suddenly Sesshoumaru realized that he still had yet to remove the girl that so boldly attached herself to him. But strangely he didn’t care as much as he thought he should. Sternly he cleared his throat and the girl seemed to cringe slightly. Sesshoumaru noticed a slither of light shining against his chest and a warm, gentle sensation. Victoria began to pull away and the light grew brighter. It was coming from her brow, Sesshoumaru squinted slightly and the light began to fade and in it’s place was a dark pink crescent moon. Sesshoumaru stared at the moon for a long moment. And finally he heard her silky voice for the first time.
“Sesshoumaru.” She said softly. “I...I’m so sorry.”
Sesshoumaru was silent as he turned her words over in his head. “Woman who are you, were do you come from?”
Inuyasha took another step forward and Sesshoumaru glared at him, his instincts to protect this female already kicking in, even though he knew nothing about her. Inuyasha stopped, realizing what Sesshoumaru had sensed the same thing he did the moment Kagome had bursted through her door that morning telling him to leave. Inuyasha didn’t argue, he couldn’t, something about the scent coming toward the room told him to just leave and wait for the right moment to ask questions. He couldn’t very well hurt the woman who smelled of his damnable brother, especially in her condition.
Inuyasha lowered his head slightly, he hated to submit to his brother and never thought he would see the day when he would have to. But he wasn’t there to fight and Sesshoumaru was full youkai, he would protect this particular female without hesitation. If not her, his future growing within her. “Sesshoumaru.” Inuyasha said as calmly as possible. Remembering Victoria’s words, about brother’s and fights and forgiveness. He did forgive his older brother, even though Sesshoumaru still had five hundred years before he asked for it. Inuyasha knew Victoria was too exhausted to recount the future, so he stepped up. “Her name is Victoria, she comes from Kagome’s time.”
Who? Sesshoumaru was already confused, by Inuyasha words and his own feelings. This woman meant nothing to him and he was already laying claim to her, even though apparently he already had. Inuyasha saw the look of sheer confusion breaking through the emotionless facade he always wore.
“The miko I travel with.” Inuyasha clarified. “This woman is her cousin. She came from a country across the waters to come through Kagome’s well and reach this time. Naraku was never killed, he is still alive five hundred years from now.” Inuyasha nearly choked on the words. It was so hard to believe. He remembered all the close encounters when Naraku was nearly destroyed it was so hard to believe that he still lives, still causing pain wherever he went. And what hurt even more was the one person he’d never expect was helping him. “K-Kikyou is with him, I mean the priestess who sealed me for fifty years. Before Kagome released me.”
******
Naraku sat alone in his castle, the almost complete sacred jewel clutched in his fist.
He was growing impatient although he did enjoy twisting Inuyasha and his friends hearts with Kohaku and the wolf could easily be over taken. He didn’t really need the jewel to be complete. He occasionally took other shards off anyway to fulfill his needs. There was just one problem he need to take of. Kikyou. Kagura, Kohaku and Hakudoshi still searched for the elusive miko all over the lands and still nothing. She was the only one with the power to destroy him. So he had to get to her first. But killing her wasn’t a option anymore, he already tried that on more than one occasion. No, he wouldn’t kill her this time. But he had to neutralize the threat somehow. He nearly gasped at he own idea as he eyed the jewel in his hand.
******
Much to Victoria’s insistence, Rin was left out of the loop and the she remained outside with Ken’ichi while Sesshoumaru led his guests to his office. Victoria seemed unfazed by her surroundings, she was preoccupied with the youkai in front of her. Inuyasha was extremely uncomfortable in his older brother’s home. Inside the walls there was no where to move freely. He was easy prey for the taiyoukai. But fortunately Sesshoumaru seemed uninterested in battle and more interested in the woman from the future, carrying his child.
******
Kagome and her friends finally reached a clearing in which a castle wasn’t far along.
“I believe the castle belongs to the lord of these lands.” Miroku pointed out.
“Sesshoumaru?” Sango asked. Kagome took in a sharp breath. She was praying that Inuyasha was okay. “Do you think we should see if Inuyasha is here?” Sango continued.
“I don’t see any reason why he would be, but I supposed it wouldn’t be of any harm to ask.” Miroku promptly responded. Although he wasn’t feeling to sure about the situation himself. But it seemed that now they had no choice for Rin and Ken’ichi was already outside the gates to greet them.
“Kagome-sama!” Rin called out as she waved happily. Ken’ichi didn’t seem to hospitable as he gave Rin and kiss on the cheek and disappeared into the forest without a word to the visitors.
“Wow Rin, you really grown up since we last met.” Kagome smiled down on the blushing girl. “Was that your intended.”
Rin blushed deeper. “Well, yes I suppose.” Rin politely bowed to Sango and Miroku. “Are you looking for Inuyasha-sama and his friend, I think they went to the office.” Rin turned to lead the group into the castle. Kagome’s heart was in her throat. She vowed she was going to sit Inuyasha into oblivion for leaving without explanation.
“Inuyasha, your friends have arrived.” Sesshoumaru said as he stared at Victoria. His mind was still overturning with her fantastic story. “I will show my guest to her room. You may go now.”
Inuyasha glared at Sesshoumaru. “No way am I leaving her here with you.”
Sesshoumaru was quick to return the look full of daggers. “She will be safe here, while I find Naraku and the priestess.”
“I don’t think so! You won’t touch Kikyou, she’s mine to--” Inuyasha wish he hadn’t said that. Kagome was right outside the door, but Inuyasha didn’t catch himself in time.
“Osuwari!” She called out as she opened as she continued the attack. “Osuwari! Osuwari! OSUWARI!!!” Kagome chanted the words like mantra. For Sesshoumaru’s part he didn’t mind seeing his brother being pummeled into the ground, but right now it just seemed inappropriate. Gracefully he stood.
“Miko.” Sesshoumaru said calmly. “Stop.”
Kagome did as she was told. She shot a angry look at Sesshoumaru which quickly morphed into a apologetic expression. “What’s going on?”
Victoria peek out from over Sesshoumaru’s shoulder. “Kagome? What are you doing here?” She questioned almost angrily.
“You!” Kagome pointed a accusing finger at her so called cousin. “Just who the hell are you anyway! Your not my cousin are you.”
“Yes, I am.” Victoria answered. “My mother is your mother’s sister. And my father...is Rin’s son.”
At that moment Kagome didn’t know what to think, she had so many questions but didn’t know where to start. So she opted to ask about the current situation they were in now. “Why are you here now?”
Victoria lowered her head but her expression never change. Sesshoumaru watched with interest. “Kagome, do you remember the man I was in love with, the one with the white hair and yellow eyes I told you of.” Kagome didn’t like where this was going. Victoria continued. “I met Sesshoumaru on my nineteenth birthday, I’m his mate and I’m pregnant with his child.” Kagome was glad Inuyasha was still recovering from her wrath. He broke her fall.
******
It was been awhile since Naraku had appeared and Kikyou was getting restless. She found a nice small village on the outskirts of the western lands. She knew Inuyasha’s brother was lord of the lands, so maybe she would run into the wandering hanyou eventually. Until then she acted as the village miko for the good people of the village. Sometimes she almost wanted Naraku to find her, she opted not to kill anymore of his samiyoshou if they came buzzing over the village. She needed excitement. And suddenly as if hearing her prayer, Naraku’s faithful insects did in fact fly over. They paused and stared Kikyou straight in the face, before quickly flying away.
“Well that was certainly fast, Naraku.” Kikyou said with her tragic smile before following after the poison insects.