InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Snow White and the Seven 'Dwarfs'...Sort of ❯ Mirror, Mirror ( Chapter 31 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

AN: I’m sooooo sorry I took so long to update, I just had one of those really, really bad weeks that wouldn’t end, and school started piling up...ugh just thinking about it makes me cringe. Then I got really into King Thrushbeard and that new story I started...it was just kinda crazy for awhile. (And there was that pesky little case of writers block to...) Oh well, hope this chapter is good.

AngelMiko289- Thank you! Fluffy scenes are always fun to write, (hopefully I can have a few more...intense ones with Sess/Rin, I got a lot of practice with that couple in King Thrushbeard so I should be able to write a few good ones.) And I don’t know, I kinda like how they keep getting interrupted, so don’t expect a kiss with those two anytime soon. (And if you figure out why, don’t tell me in a review I want it to be a surprise for the other readers.) Thanks for reading, hope this chapter is good!

Demonic-Little-Angel- Well then, it’s a good thing I like fairy tales and I love rewriting them. If you haven’t seen yet, I have another fic out with all these short stories on more rewritten fairy tales. I just added Greek myths to the mix to, if you haven’t already you should take a look, some of them are pretty good if I say so myself. I have the stories summery’s on my profile if you want to see what they’re about before you read them.

Neko Jer- Thanks, I’ll keep all that in mind when I write. Just don’t expect them to be perfect, they’re probably going to be very OOC.

HalfDemonMica- I”M FORGIVEN! (Beams) And I wish I can say I’m sorry about Hiten interrupting Inu/Kag’s fluffy moment...but I’m not sorry so it would be lying. You can expect more interruptions in the future!

Kagome’s Girl- Being a freshman wasn’t as bad as everyone said it would be...but maybe that’s just my school. Thanks for reviewing and trying to help me, hope you enjoy this chapter.

Mediaminer-

Mika_san- And I get annoyed when people assume I made Kikyo really evil because I have some deep, unending hatred of her. Making Kikyo evil and whorish just fits in the plot better then a tamer one, and I couldn’t exactly make Naraku into a girl for the evil queen. (...actually, I bet I could do that for another story...) I don’t hate Kikyo, and I’m not going to say she’s a saint either, but I will say I did make her worse for the plot line. (I did the same thing with Hiten and with some of the Seven members in the opposite direction but you didn’t complain about that.) And as this story is not based on the setting or situation of the anime show(mostly) so I can write it however I want. So while I appreciate the honesty and bluntness you had in your review, I will continue writing Kikyo like this because it fits the way I want the plot to go. (And sorry if I sound overly bitchy, but I had a bad day. And yes, it’s wrong to take it out on you and blah, blah, blah but I had such a bad day I really don’t care at the moment. If I feel bad I’ll beg forgiveness later)

Mischievous Angel- Sorry it took me so long to update, I got really involved in King Thrushbeard, started that new one, and then school got really annoying and I got 10 million ideas I’m not sure what I’m doing with yet and before I knew it, it had been more then two months I went without updating. And please don’t die yet, I love reading your input on my chapters. Thanks for reviewing, enjoy this chapter please.

OrlandoLover- Oh, well I’m just glad I wasn’t the one who caused that bad mood. (I’ve got this really bad habit of doing that...) Hope you like this chapter, thanks for reviewing! (Aware)

Cehavard90- Thank you! Sorry about updating so late.

Lil Rin- Thank you. Don’t worry, I haven’t forgotten about Mayu (coughs) it’s just since Kag’s out of the palace I haven’t really had a chance to talk about her. She should be back soon though, maybe even in this chapter. You know I forgot how the witch in Snow White died so I made up my own ending for Kikyo. You’ll just have to wait and see what it is...(though I really like the idea of her getting old and turning into dust...maybe I’ll use that in another story.)

IMPORTANT NOTE! PLEASE READ!
Just wanted to let you guys know, I’ve never seen any episodes with the Band/Gang (whatever they are) of Seven so I only know them from the profiles I’ve read on them. Sorry if I make them really, really OOC, I have to guess until I finally see them in a show.

And now, Chapter 32 (31 on mediaminer) of Snow White and the Seven Dwarf’s...Sort of.

Disclaimer- I don’t own Inuyasha or Snow White, and I’m to lazy right now to come up with a funny disclaimer explaining that.



Rin and Sesshomaru-

Rin watched the landscape change from paved streets and well off towns to dirt roads and hovels half hidden in the tree’s shadows as Sesshomaru’s carriage traveled across the region.
“Where are we?” she asked Sesshomaru, who was still doing paperwork.
He glanced up briefly. “We are still in the North, just in a more rural area. My contacts say the man Bankotsu should be working as a blacksmith somewhere close to here.” Sesshomaru informed her before continuing his work.
She turned back to the window, wanting to speak but not wanting to disturb him either.
“Rin.” Sesshomaru said suddenly, “Tell me, do you remember anything about the Seven members? You must of met them at least once.” he asked.
Rin frowned as she thought, “I might remember a tall man with a long black braid now that I think of it.” she said slowly, searching though long forgotten memories. “There was another man with funny markings down the side of his face, I remember someone use to give me candy...” she shook her head. “That’s all I remember, I never even knew anything about Seven expect for a few rumors from the servants. The men weren’t even there all that often.” she finally said. “But I’m positive I’ll know who they are when I see them.” she promised firmly.
Sesshomaru nodded as if that answered some difficult question and returned to his paperwork.
Rin stared at the paper and mentally sighed, resisting the urge to take her swords and cut them up into tiny little scraps.
Both of them looked up when they heard a thump on the side of the carriage door. “We are here my lord.”
Sesshomaru put away his paperwork. “Stop then.” he commanded and the carriage halted.
Rin didn’t bother to wait for the driver to come around and open her door, she shoved it open, ignoring Sesshomaru’s sigh at her impatience and jumped out.
She looked around eagerly and frowned when she saw nothing.
“I ordered the carriage to stop a few feet away from his home, it might serve us well to be seen walking up on foot.” Sesshomaru informed her as he stepped out of the carriage and walked up the road.
Rin quickly followed, looking around curiously.
After a few feet they saw a run down two story home, with a small smith by the side of the house. They heard metal pounding into metal and a few soft grunts as they rounded the corner of the house, seeing a half naked man with long black hair pulled from his face messily, lifting a heavy hammer over his head and dropping it over the steel laying in front of him.
He paused, wiping away sweat and turned as if he heard them approach.
“What do you want?” he asked rudely, not bothering to turn fully around.
“Are you Bankotsu, first lieutenant of the group Seven?” Sesshomaru asked boldly.
The man winced before taking up his hammer again, “No, you’ve come to the wrong place. My name is Tsutomu, not this Bankotsu.” he said roughly, slapping his hammer on the steel again.
Rin bit her lip and hesitantly walked up to him, placing a hand on his dirty, sweaty back. He stiffened and stopped.
“Please sir, tell me if you know where Bankotsu is. It’s important I find him.” she said softly.
“You don’t need to find the likes of him ma’am, it’s better that filth like that stays buried.” he said harshly.
“Well, then I need to convince him he isn’t filth and how much he’s needed.” Rin said back stubbornly.
He cursed softly, spinning around to face her. “Damn it, don’t you try to go-“ he stopped in mid sentence when he got a good look at her face.
Rin tilted her face up at him shamelessly, “Before my father died I was told I look a great deal like him. Is that still true?” she asked.
He stared at her for a beat. “Oh Rin.” he whispered before yanking her in her arms and hugging her tight. “You still look like that old fool Taro.” he breathed.
Rin hugged him back, laughing softly. “It’s good to see you to.”
He pulled back, studying her closely, “Damn, look how much you’ve grown.” he chocked. “I never though I would see you this big. After that night...” he trailed off.
“There is no need to hold her like that.” Sesshomaru said coldly, suddenly appearing next to them. He eyed Bankotsu’s bare chest, “There is no need for you to go without a shirt as well.” he pointed out.
Bankotsu raised an amused eyebrow at Rin as he grabbed a shirt laying on the ground and pulled it on. “Taro never could see you with a possessive boyfriend Rin, if he was still around he’d owe me 15 yen.” he said.
Rin turned red, stuttering, “No! No, it isn’t like that at all!” she finally got out, “Lord Sesshomaru is only helping me find the Seven members, nothing more!” she said quickly.
Bankotsu’s smile disappeared, “You can’t be serious Rin. There’s no point finding them, especially since half those bastard’s are traitors.” he said furiously as he gathered tools and set them away.
Rin gasped, “What do you mean, traitors?” she asked.
He slammed the hammer down on his work bench in an angry move, “How do you think that slut knew about Taromaru? She never would have found your father if we hadn’t been betrayed by our own group.” he laughed humorlessly. “I was such a fool, to trust them. Maybe if I hadn’t been so damn sure of myself...” he rubbed his face, smearing soot on his cheeks. “I can think about all the maybe’s and what if’s all I want but that won’t change the past.” he said disgustedly.
He turned to face Rin, looking helpless. “Look, I’m glad you’re alive, but do me a favor and stay that way. Forget about Seven, forget about ever seeing me, and just go home.” he ordered and turned to leave.
Rin stepped up and spun him back around, furious. “No fucking way in hell!” she cursed, surprising him, “Kikyo and Naraku killed my father, took away my mother and my childhood, I will not let them get away with that!” she swore. “I need you and the remaining Seven member to defeat Kikyo. The time to act is now, we may not get another chance to get rid of Kikyo. I need you!”
“The last thing you need is me!” Bankotsu yelled back. “If I hadn’t been such a fool I could have saved Taro, your mother, and you! But I was so damn cocky I couldn’t see when my own soldiers were planning a mutiny! Me and Seven will only get you killed, just forget about it and go on with your life!”
“I can’t!” Rin screamed, surprised by the tears slowly starting to blur her eyesight. “I can’t go on with my life! I was there the night Naraku showed up, I was safe while I listened to my father’s death, while my mother was being raped, all in an effort to protect me! And even all that didn’t save me, I still let myself get killed by that freak!” Rin cried out. “And there is no one, no one, who will stop me from taking revenge now that I’m old enough, I won't be protected! Because now I’m protecting someone, all the children who had to listen to Naraku and Kikyo kill their parents and didn’t get the second chance I did to make things right! I will not let them down!” Rin stopped, taking in a deep breath, “Even if I have to go back home with no one from my father’s own group I will stop at nothing to get rid of Kikyo, not even my own death will convince me to stay safe while those I love are fighting for my sake.” Rin told him and looked him straight in the eyes,
“And do you really think my father would blame you for his death? If there’s anything he would blame you for, it’s hiding here and ignoring all the people who still need you.” she said softly.
His face tightened and he looked away. “I have to think.” he said roughly and walked away.
Rin and Sesshomaru watched as he left, slamming the door to his house. “Do you think he’ll come back?”
“If he doesn’t we’ll have to come back and try again.” Rin said calmly, wiping her tears walking back to their carriage.

Bankotsu

Bankotsu paced back and forth in front of the shed after Rin and Sesshomaru left, trying to decide if he should go in or not. It had almost been five years since he’d last stepped foot into the shed, just wanting to forget everything about who’d he once been,
“Now I’m protecting someone, all the children who had to listen to Naraku and Kikyo as they killed their parents and didn’t give them the second chance I did to make things right. I will not let them down!” Bankotsu rubbed his forehead as Rin’s voice rang though his head, not giving him a moment’s peace.
“Do you think my father would blame you for his death? If there’s anything he would blame you for, it’s hiding here and ignoring all the people who still need you.”
He groaned and rested his head against the weak wood of the shed.
“I need you!”
“Get out of my head Rin.” he begged wearily.
“I will stop at nothing to get rid of Kikyo, not even my own death will convince me to stay safe while those I love are fighting for my sake.”
He slowly beat his head against the wood, trying to decide what to do. He was such a fool then, if he had been a little smarter and less trusting maybe Taro would still be alive. After the mistakes of his past how could he trust himself to protect Rin? He would be to slow, and to stupid once again and she would end up dead or half insane like the people he failed to protect.
But would she really be better off without him if she insisted on this foolish plan? She was under the care of this ‘Lord Sesshomaru’, but was he really any good in a fight? He was older now, wiser, less trusting. Maybe she really did need him...
No! No, no, no, no! He couldn’t let himself think like that, he was damaged goods! He was no good to anyone, not even the few customers he had at his black smith business.
But if she was anything like Taro, she would be as stubborn as him, refusing to see when she was fighting a lost cause. She would only be coming back here over and over again until he said or did something to drive her away.
...or if he agreed.
“I can’t go on with my life! I was there the night Naraku showed up, I was safe while I listened to my father’s death, while my mother was being raped, all in an effort to protect me! And even all that didn’t save me, I still let myself get killed by that freak!”
He froze as her words replayed in his head.
“I still let myself get killed by that freak!”
Naraku and Kikyo had dared to attack a innocent child, who knew nothing about her father’s activities.
Rin had been hurt, humiliated, shamed and killed in the same night.
...he still wasn’t sure how she could have come back from the death but was sure she would explain that sooner or later.
And he had let that happen. He let that bright, beautiful child’s light get snuffed out and ran away to lick his own wounds.
No more, no more hiding, no more wasting away. He couldn’t let that happen again, and now he was sick with how many more children had been treated like Rin and he did nothing to stop it.
Taromaru was right. Every lost battle, every wound, every scar was worth it if you saved at least one life. He hadn’t saved Rin’s life, or any other child’s but he would be damned if he let that happen again.
He didn’t care about his own life, but Rin’s wouldn’t be spared again.
(Besides, she needed someone to take her father’s place and warn that Sesshomaru guy what would happen to him and all 206 of his bones if he broke her heart.)
Bankotsu took a deep breath and determinately shoved the shed’s door open, breaking the fragile lock as he pushed his way inside.

Sesshomaru and Rin, next day

Rin’s mouth dropped down when she saw the stairs.
“Those stairs?” she squeaked.
Sesshomaru didn’t spare her a glance. “Yes those stairs.” he said, trying not to roll his eyes heavenward.
“We’re looking at the same stairs right? We both see those tens of thousands of stairs up a steep and huge mountain you want me to climb?” she asked, trying to keep the whine out of her voice.
Sesshomaru closed his eyes briefly and breathed deeply. “Yes, we both are looking at the same set of stairs.” he said impatiently.
“But there’s so many!”
Sesshomaru felt a vein throb in his forehead and fought for patience. “This is a monastery as I’ve already informed you. If you feel you’re to weak to climb up a few steps-“
Rin jerked and spun around, her eyes blazing, “Weak? You think I’m to weak to get up there? Ha!” she tossed her head back arrogantly. “Just watch, I’ll show you weak. Weak.” she spat to herself as she started climbing, praying she wouldn’t trip from the lack of railings in between ranting about Sesshomaru.
He only shook his head and walked silently behind her, somewhat amused at her anger until he walked downwind into her scent.
He forced himself to close his eyes and fight for control when the sweet smell reached his nose, a mix between her normal scent and the richest spices from India. If he ever realized the effect she would have on him four years ago he might not have used Tensagia on her. Her smile, her body, her face, her..her glow! There was such joy in her, such pleasure in simple things it made him want to spoil her to see how much her eyes could light up after receiving a diamond necklace, or a pretty kimono to match her hair. He didn’t know such innocence could exist after going up against Naraku and Kikyo but she managed to hold on to it somehow.
And there were times that innocence was so pure, untainted and...annoying he just wanted to grab her and show her a few things to cloud that purity with a desire for something...wicked.
He forced his thoughts away from Rin before he did something foolish or regretful later if he didn’t hold on to his control and show Rin anything other then the cold king he was.
But he couldn’t help narrowing his eyes slightly when he noticed Rin getting tired, her angry pace slowing down as her breathing became heavy. He noticed how high they were and realized in a few more feet the air would start to become thinner and that would limit her even more. Hr braced himself for her protests as he scooped her up into his arms and used his demon speed to travel up the mountain faster, ignoring her angry squeals.
“What do you think you’re doing?” she asked, clutching on his sleeve.
“You were so slow I could watch seeds grow into trees.”
“What?” she hissed. “I was slow? You- wait a minute, if you could do this why did you make me walk up half of that mountain?” she hissed angrily.
“It amused me. Quiet, we are here.” he ordered when she opened her mouth and abruptly stopped at a large stone courtyard, a few religious statues were standing in random corners while a little farther back there was a modest building she took to be the monastery.
Rin started to blush when she realized she was still cradled in Sesshomaru’s arms and wasn’t sure to be grateful or disappointed when he set her down.
They looked around, trying to find some sign of people. “It’s like a ghost town.” Rin murmured. “Are you sure your informer got his facts right?” she asked.
Sesshomaru scowled. “Of course I am sure, I only hire the best.” he replied causally. “He said there were rumors of one of the Seven members residing here. So there must be some people here.”
“Ah, there was but I’m afraid it’s only me now.” a voice replied from behind them. Sesshomaru and Rin spun around, Sesshomaru instinctively pushing himself in front of Rin as they faced the monk that leaned causally against one of the statues. He tilted his head slowly, “What is the reason you have come to this monastery?” he asked calmly.
“We’ve come looking for a man who used to belong to the group called Seven.” Sesshomaru said, staring steadily at the man while Rin took a closer look at him.
He wore red and yellow robes, his bald head shone brightly in the sunlight and he had large red marks traveling down his face. She gasped quietly when she realized who he was while his red outlined eyes narrowed in anger and...fear?
“I know no such man. The only one who lives here is myself and the one group I belong to is that of Kami’s men.” he said quietly. He straightened from the statue, “I’m afraid you’ve come to the wrong place my dear travelers.” he said softly.
Rin stepped out from behind Sesshomaru’s back and offered him a small smile. “I’m sorry we’ve misunderstood each other, because we have come to the right place. We’ve been looking for you...Renkotsu.”
He jerked back, his eyes open in surprise. “How do you know my name?” he demanded.
Rin took another step, laughing softly, “It hasn’t been that long since you last bandaged my scraped knee Renko. Have I really grown up so much you don’t recognize me?” she questioned.
His eyes turned wary. “You do remind me of...someone. But it’s not possible you’re her, she’s been dead for years now.” he said, his voice regretful.
“You said you were Kami’s man, don’t monks believe in miracles?” She laughed suddenly and spun around in a small circle. “Because here I am, alive and well.”
He swallowed and hesitantly stretched out a hand to gently touch her hair. “Oh Kami, it is you. Taro’s little Rin.” he said, his voice thick with emotion. He drew her into his arms, hugging her tightly. “You got so big! What happened to the Rin who didn’t even reach my shoulders?” he asked teasingly.
“She died.” she said flatly, and he dropped his arms in shock at her tone.
She paused for a moment, making sure his attention was on her. “I wasn’t exactly telling you the truth when I said I was well.” she took a breath. “I need to gather the remaining Seven members to fight again against Kikyo.” she said bluntly, watching as his face went from joy and shock to confusion and misery.
He started shaking his head. “No, you don’t know what you’re saying. We failed horribly, miserably, to defeat Kikyo and we lost you, your father and your mother in the process. We were totally lost without Taro, we couldn’t even plan a tea party much less the destruction of a evil overlord. And it doesn’t help matters we were betrayed by our own men.” he said bitterly.
“Bankotsu mentioned something like that, what happened?” Rin asked.
He sighed and ran his head down his smooth head, “I can say I know for sure. Kikyo must of gotten to them, but we know at least two or three members betrayed us and revealed Taro to Kikyo. After...what happened, the group spilt up because we couldn’t trust each other anymore. The two who had betrayed us ran like the spineless cowards they are, and the other might of died but we couldn’t be sure they had accomplices.” he shrugged helplessly, “So I ended up here, trying to atone for my sins.”
Sesshomaru stilled. “What sins?” he asked.
Renkotsu gave him a dirty look, “If I was one of the traitors I would have left Japan, the remaining Seven members wanted their blood.” he paused. “My only sin is trusting the wrong men.” he said, more to himself then them. “I was the one who found them and convinced them to join Seven. Maybe if I found different men things would have been different.” he said, staring off into the empty air.
“Well then, here’s your chance to make things right Renkotsu. I need you and the other Seven members. I can’t defeat Kikyo without you.” Rin begged earnestly. “Please say you’ll join us.”
Renkotsu thought for a moment. “I can’t trust anyone again Rin, I couldn’t bare it if I was wrong again.” he said quietly.
“Well then trust me. I refuse to let you recruit any new members, and any traitors are completely my fault.” Rin said firmly, her face softening. “And besides, if I do make a bad choice I know I can trust you to help me fix it.” she added softly.
Renkotsu stared at her, his expression unreadable.
“Please Renkotsu.” she said quietly, a tear slipping down her cheek. “Don’t make me do this alone.”
Finally after what seemed like an eternity to Rin he slowly nodded.
“Very well Rin. I will help you.”
Rin suddenly started laughing and launched herself in his arms, “Thank you, thank you, thank you! You won’t regret this, with you the rest of the group and our other allies there’s no way Kikyo will live out the year.” Rin swore.
He gently set her down when he noticed Sesshomaru’s even colder face. “You’ve already found allies?” he asked.
She nodded, “Yes, you wouldn’t believe how strong they all are! Kikyo’s made some very powerful enemies.” Rin told him.
He nodded in understanding, “You may tell me all about that while I go gather my belongings. Please wait here.” he offered graciously before turning back to walk towards the monastery.
Rin waited until he was out of earshot before she turned to Sesshomaru, grinning widely. “See Lord Sesshomaru? I told you they wouldn’t be able to say no to a crying female!” her grin turned sly. “And you were going to bring me back to the dwarfs.”
“We still have time to turn back and drop you off.” he threatened and she only rolled her eyes.
“You know that would take to long, and we don’t have time for that. Besides, what are you complaining about? My methods are working, aren’t they? Now I have to figure out how to help Renkotsu get rid of that guilt...” she added to herself, already thinking while Sesshomaru resisted the urge to give her something more pleasurable to consider.
“This Sesshomaru does not complain.” he said, hoping the coldness in his voice would dose the fire she lit.
She opened her mouth to reply but snapped it closed when she saw Renkotsu approaching with a small bag over his shoulder.
“The carriage is at the bottom of the mountain.” Sesshomaru informed him as he swung Rin up into his arms. “Try to keep up, I might not wait for you.” he ignored Rin as he started taking big leaps down the mountain, her struggling turning into shrieks of delight as Sesshomaru moved quickly down.
Renkotsu shook his head in amusement, “Bank would have won that bet if her dad was still around. Poor Taro, he wanted to keep her in a convent and chastity belt her whole life.” he remarked to himself, chucking quietly as he tried to catch up to Rin and Sesshomaru as quickly as he could.

Inuyasha

Inuyasha followed the servant warily into the dinning room where Kikyo had asked for his presence. Sesshomaru had warned him as much as he wanted to tear her apart they couldn’t yet. So he had to make an effort to be polite and pretend he was totally clueless about how much of an evil bitch she was until Sess came back.
Sess didn’t say anything about annoying the hell out of her though. That could be kinda fun.
Inuyasha stopped dead in the dining room, amazed at the transformation. Candles had been placed on every available surface, giving the room a romantic light and filling it with a delicate gardenia fragrance. Tiny crystals were hung from the ceiling and sparkled brightly in the candle light, but the biggest of the diamonds were centered around Kikyo who was sitting down at a table patiently sipping at a glass of wine as red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple light was reflected on her pale skin.
It was to bad the bitch was so good looking. It would have been easier to ignore her if she didn’t look so much like Kag.
Kikyo smiled slowly when she got sight at Inuyasha. “Lord Inuyasha.” she purred. “Please, sit down.” she gestured gracefully to a richly sewn pillow facing hers across the table. “I’m so happy you were able to join me tonight.”
He said down carefully, not sure what to make of her in this mood. “Didn’t have anything better to do.” he said, shrugging slightly and trying not to notice when she frowned slightly but sprang her pleasant face back up quickly.
“I’m glad you chose to spend your time with me then.” she said rasing her wine glass again.
Inuyasha cautiously took his own glass sniffing subtly for something she could have put in before taking a sip.
She motioned for the servants to set their food before them and leave and Inuyasha felt his mouth start watering when his meal was brought but forced himself to wait.
She studied him over the rim of her glass, “I hoped we could get to know each other better.” she offered. “I would like to become married to you and perhaps you would be more interested as well if you knew a little more about me.” she said, slowly placing a piece of meat in her mouth and sliding her chopsticks out seductively.
Inuyasha watched her play with her chopsticks, a idea coming over him.
“Yeah, that sounds good Kikyo.” he said, taking up a huge piece of meat and biting into it savagely.
She stopped rubbing her fingers across the smooth wood, blinking in surprise. “Ah...”
He raised a eyebrow like he’s seen Sesshomaru do so many times and took another big bite, making sure to smear the juices over his face and sleeves. “So Kikyo.” he started, his voice slightly muffed by the food in his mouth, “Whatta ya wanna tell me about yourself?” he asked, making sure she got a good look at the mixture in his mouth.
She cleared her throat and started using her chopsticks normally. “Well, I grew up in the South with my family. I had a dramatic experience when I was around seven, raiders kidnaped me, knocked me out and left me somewhere.”
Inuyasha stopped acting so disgusting for a few moments, actually interested. “Yeah? What happened?” he asked.
She looked down, suddenly fascinated with her food, “I lost my memory after they knocked me over the head. A kind fisherman found me and took me in as his own daughter. I was called Koharu because I didn’t even know my name. Then when I was around fifteen, I got my memory back and went home.” she shrugged. “That’s all.”
“What happened with the fisherman?” Inuyasha asked.
Kikyo shrugged again, “He died.” she said shortly.
“Oh.” Inuyasha said, suddenly worried about the small burst of compassion inside of him. He knew what it was like to lose your parents and be all alone...
Wanting to get rid of this feeling, he dug into his food again, making sure his mouth was wide enough she could see traces of the meat he chewed still lingering on his fangs, missing her small smile.

Sesshomaru, Rin, and Renkotsu

“So who’s next?” Rin asked as the carriage bumped along the uneven road the next day.
Sesshomaru glanced down at his papers to make sure he got the name right. “A man called Suikotsu, he was the group’s doctor, correct?” he asked.
Renkotsu nodded from across him, “Yes...but it may not be such a good idea to find him.” he said hesitantly.
Rin’s brow furrowed. “Why not? Is he one of the betrayers?” she asked.
“No, Suikotsu admired Taromaro greatly, he would have done anything to save his or his family’s lives. There’s only one thing I’m concerned about...” he paused. “Suikotsu has always had an extremely...delicate mentally. He’s still sane and he wouldn’t hurt any innocents purposely.” he reassured quickly at the looks on their faces. “He just...when he gets out of control he really gets out of control. There’s very few people who could calm him, and I was never one of them.” Renkotsu explained.
Rin tossed her head back, “We need to try.” Rin said firmly, and Sesshomaru had the urge to roll his eyes at her tone and kiss her senseless at the same time.
Damn it, what was it about her? No other female had attracted him this way, and there had to be another reason besides her beauty, courage, attitude, innocence, intelligence, strength and stubbornness, traits he all despised in a female expect the first one. Beauty and good breeding was the only thing required. And Rin wasn’t even from a particularly noble family. She was human for Kami’s sake.
He gritted his teeth when his entire form was jerked and jumped over a rough spot. He would finish this internal discussion later.
“Where exactly are we going-oomp!” Rin shrieked when she started to fall towards him.
He eyed the sharp spikes in the amour he wore going right towards her face and quickly caught her and flipped her onto her back laying across his lap in a graceful fluid move.
They stared at each other, Rin’s blinking in confusion of why her head wasn’t impaled on a spike and Sesshomaru’s eyes greedily devouring her form, her hair spread out over the seat and his leg in the way he imagined it would look on his pillow, her back arched and causing her shirt to mold tightly to her breasts and how her lips were parted slightly apart, just begging him to lean down and take them.
They continued to stare at each other until Renkotsu nervously cleared his throat and Rin’s face turned pink.
She quickly sat up and Sesshomaru had to resist the urge to yank her back as she fixed her shirt and tried not to look at him.
Renkotsu cleared his throat once more. “Anyway, where are we going? We’re so deep in the woods we’re more isolated here then I was on that mountain.”
“We are going to be going in deeper, the carriage won’t be able to travel any longer.” Sesshomaru explained just as the carriage stopped.
They stepped out and with Sesshomaru’s strict instructions to the driver not to leave the carriage they started to pick their way over the rocky path.
“Who...would...live...out..here?” Rin panted after half an hour of walking and climbing over a large rock that was blocking the faint path.
Sesshomaru glanced over at her and slashed through the next rock with his energy whip. The rock split into two with a loud crack and they were able to walk though it safely.
Rin rolled her eyes even though she wanted to moan in gratitude. “Only you could divide a rock into two pieces and make it look like you were brushing a feather off your shoulder.” she grumbled.
He shrugged in a graceful, modest manner, “I am the most powerful living member of the House of Inu.”
Rin grunted in response. “How did these rocks get here anyway?” she wondered out loud “It’s not like they could have fallen off a cliff, there isn’t even a small mountain near by.”
“Like I’ve said...Suikotsu can lose control sometimes.” Renkotsu murmured.
Sesshomaru’s eyes narrowed, “I see the outline of a small hut from here, we should be at Suikotsu’s home soon.” he explained.
Rin and Renkotsu nodded, following Sesshomaru’s lead.
Finally they were in front of a slowly rotting hovel, looking at each other.
Rin cleared her throat and stepped up. “Well, I suppose I should knock.” she said quietly.
Sesshomaru’s mouth tightened and his hand dropped to his sword but he let her raise her hand to knock.
She took a deep breath and let her fist rap hard against the weak wooden door twice.
The door slowly opened and Rin had to take a double take at the man who opened it. He wasn’t anything the crazy maniac she imagined him to look like. Instead he looked rather...sweet. Like a big, gentle teddy bear.
He titled his head softly. “Yes?” He asked in a quiet voice that didn’t sound like the horrible, ear piercing noise she though it would sound like. “Is there something I may help you with?”
“Are you called Suikotsu?” Rin asked.
The man frowned, “...yes that is my name. Are you in need of a healer? It must be serious if you came all the way out here.”
“Well, I do need you but not in the way you think.” she paused, choosing her words carefully. “I’m the daughter of Taromaru, the leader of the group Seven.”
Suikotsu gripped the door tightly, shaking his head. “...that can’t be. Taro is dead, his daughter was never found.”
Rin smiled gently, “Trust me, I’m still very alive.”
Suikotsu looked carefully at her, “Are you a miko like your mother?” he asked suspiciously.
She shook her head, “No, she didn’t pass her power along to me. I’m more like my father then anyone else.”
His hand fell away limply from the door. “It is you. You were one of the only girls I knew who never became a miko even though her mother was one. I can’t believe you’re still alive.” he said, full of wonder.
Rin smiled sadly, “Kikyo thinks I’m dead to.”
He froze. “Kikyo?” he asked quietly.
Rin nodded. “Yes, you see, I need to gather Seven together again. An army is getting ready to fight Kikyo, and Seven is needed again.
He started to tremble, his hand gripping the door again. “No, no, no, no, not Kikyo.” he said fearfully.
Renkotsu stepped up next to Rin, concern written all over his face. “Suikotsu, you must calm down. You don’t even need to see Kikyo again if you don’t want to, just fight with us!” he said desperately.
His head jerked up as his fingers gripped the wood so hard they went through the wood as his entire body went tense. “You think I don’t want to fight Kikyo?” he asked slowly and Rin tried to fight the urge to back away as his hair unraveled from it’s top knot to stand straight on top of his head.
“I WANT TO RIP THAT FUCKING BITCH’S HEART OUT!” He roared suddenly, sending birds flying straight into the air and other animals to crawl away in fright as green streaks highlighted his face. “I WANT TO MAKE HER SUFFER! I WANT TO MAKE HER BEG! I WANT TO MAKE HER HURT THE WAY SHE HURT ME!” he raged, slinging the door off it’s hinges and throwing it through three trees.
Sesshomaru quickly stepped in front of Rin to protect her from the flying wood chips as Suikotsu turned his rage onto his house.
“I WANT TO MAKE HER BLEED!” he cried, throwing his arms around one wall of his hut and ripping it out.
“I WANT TO CAUSE HER PAIN!” he round housed what was left of the ceiling, the rotting wood pieces falling on them like rain.
“I HATE KIKYO!” he picked up a pair of gloves covered with sharp knives at the knuckles, slipping them over his hands before slashing the remaining walls of his home.
Sesshomaru and Renkotsu forced Rin behind them, slowly backing away from Suikotsu as they covered her.
He turned to them with terrifying slowness, his knives glinting brightly despite the decayed wood still clinging to them.
“But Kikyo isn’t here right now, so you will have to do.” he said calmly and rushed them.
Sesshomaru unsheathed his sword, ignoring Rin’s protests and prepared to run Suikotsu through.
“Suikotsu! Stop!” a commanding voice ordered from behind them.
Rin turned to look, but the man was already flipping over the group and holding a huge sword out in front of him.
Rin finally gave up trying to get in front of Sesshomaru to help fight and stood up on her tip toes to see over his broad shoulder to what was happening.
Surprisingly Suikotsu stopped in front of the man, breathing heavily.
“Why can’t I kill them?” he growled, still holding his knifed covered hands in front of him.
“Because I ordered you not to. The woman is Lady Rin, Lord Taromaru’s daughter and our new leader. The monk is our brother and the demon is Lady Rin’s man. Just because you haven’t seen anyone in years doesn’t give you an excuse to forgot all your other half knows.” the man scolded.
Suikotsu flexed his hands, “But I NEED to kill Kikyo and since she isn’t here, they have to do.” he complained.
“Don’t be a fool! These are the people who will help you kill her! The people you swore to fight next to! As much as you’d like to be one, you aren’t a savage, you are a healer! Act like it!” the man barked.
“But-“
”Are you talking back to your lieutenant?” the man asked dangerously.
Rin was to shocked to gasp, not wanting to hope the braided man in front of her was who she though it was.
Suikotsu bowed his head submissively, the hair slowly flopping down to cover the front of his face and the green marks fading away.
He dropped to his knees, his face still down and crawled to the man. “Forgive me, please. It’s so hard to control the other half sometimes. Just thinking about Kikyo will release him sometimes.”
The man sheathed his sword, tossing the braid arrogantly. “Don’t talk to me, say that to them.” he gestured with his hand to the group and Rin did gasp when she saw his face.
“Bankotsu!” she cried out, shoving past Sesshomaru and hugging him tightly. “You came!” she grinned happily, still shocked.
He grinned back and ruffed her hair. “Someone had to keep an eye on you.” he smirked at Sesshomaru’s growl “And act like your father since he’s not around.” he said quietly, glaring at over her head at Sesshomaru.
She missed that part, still studying him intently, unable to believe dirty, sweaty, smelly, unkept man could look this freaking good!
His formally dirty, tangled hair pulled back onto a low ponytail was now clean, shiny, and plaited into a neat braid down his back, he didn’t smell like a blacksmith anymore, his face was clean, and he had on a formal fighting uniform that looked so hot on him.
He was definitely a close second to Sesshomaru in the looks department.
“I can’t believe you came! I was coming up with plans on how to knock you over the head and drag you back home with me.” Rin laughed, smiling impishly, “But I’m glad I can save that for something else now.”
Bankotsu laughed, feeling surprised even as the sound came from his lips. “Why am I scared you’ll really carry out that threat?”
At Sesshomaru’s slightly louder growl they backed away and Rin noticed Suikotsu still on his knees.
“Suikotsu! I’m sorry! I didn’t know you were still there.” Rin gasped.
He bowed lower. “It’s I who said be asking forgiveness. A little soreness is less then I deserve.”
Rin scowled. “It wasn’t your fault was it? That was your other half?”
Suikotsu hesitated. “Yes.”
“And he didn’t know who we were?”
“...well no.”
“Then it isn’t your fault. Get up.” she ordered and he practically jumped to his feet.
“I know I didn’t really get a chance to ask you before...your other half decided to introduce himself, but will you join us? We need all we can find.” Rin said.
Suikotsu nodded frantically. “Of course, anything for the daughter of Lord Taromaru.”
Rin grinned and threw her arms around him, “I’m so happy to have you Suikotsu.” she whispered.
She cleared her throat and broke away, grinning. “Let’s get moving. We only have one last loyal member left, yes?” she asked.
Sesshomaru nodded slowly. “Yes, Renkotsu has told me the last loyal member still alive is a man named Jakotsu.”
For some strange reason the Seven members looked at Sesshomaru and then each other, chuckling evilly.
“Yes Lord Sesshomaru. Let us find Jakotsu.” Bankotsu said cheerfully, walking in front of him and pulling Rin along, the other two Seven members following their leader and lieutenant.
Sesshomaru gritted his teeth, and using his demonic speed grabbed Rin from Bankotsu and rushing ahead of them.
“Keep up if you can, we have no time to waste on slowness.” he said coldly behind him and ran along the path quickly.
The three Seven members looked at each other, greatly amused. Bankotsu rubbed his hands together, sniggering. “This is going to be so much fun, I never had a sister or daughter I could protect from some over bearing demon.”
The other two laughed as well, already brainstorming threats and other ways to drive Sesshomaru to insanity as they rushed to catch up.

Later that Night~

“It’s getting really crowded in here.” Bankotsu grumbled next to the other three members of Seven, squished into the same seat because Sesshomaru didn’t want them near him or Rin.
“If he’s some rich lord, couldn’t he afford a slightly larger carriage?” Renkotsu jerked when the carriage hit a pothole, knocking the three men against each other while Sesshomaru didn’t seem to be moved at all and even managed to catch Rin while still looking at his papers in almost pitch dark.
“Rich king.” Sesshomaru corrected absently, focused on his papers and Rin.
Suikotsu leaned in close to them (...well, closer then he already was ) “ Don’t worry, he’ll get his comeuppance when we find Jakotsu and he has no where else to sit but next to him.” he whispered quietly enough for the two to hear and drew Sess’s attention only when they started sniggering evilly again like they had all afternoon.
Rin glared at them and they stopped, taking on an innocent expression and Bankotsu even went far enough to flutter his eyelashes.
She grinned briefly at them before turning her attention to Sesshomaru. “When are we stopping for the night Sess? It’s been a long day.”
Sesshomaru didn’t glare at her for the nickname like he would have done to anyone else and instead felt a strange warmth in his chest and hoped she would use it more often. Hoping she didn’t notice his confusion, he kept his eyes trained on his paperwork. “We’ll stop as soon as Jakotsu shows up.” he said calmly.
Bankotsu growled in frustration, “We’ve been in this freaking carriage the whole damn day! The one time we stopped it was so you could put those gold plates on the sides of your carriage for some stupid reason and now you’ve...ohh” Bankotsu’s face dawned with realization. “I see what you’re doing.”
Renkotsu looked at Bankotsu, “...you just realized it?” he shook his head. “It’s a good thing you had me for most of the planning during the old days friend.”
Bankotsu scowled at him, “Shut it.”
“What’s he doing?” Rin asked, confused.
They all quieted when they heard the pounding of horses hoofs next to their carriage, and strange men hollering with excitement into the night.
Sesshomaru put his papers away as the driver slowed the carriage to a stop. “You’re about to find out.” he murmured and stepped outside.
Rin and the Seven members followed him outside, facing down the men who circled the carriage and jumped off their horses, leaning next to them and chuckling under their breath.
The man they assumed was the leader dismounted elegantly, clothed in a long, dark cloak and an elaborate mask that showed off a strong chin, good cheekbones and two lines of blue lines when the moonlight hit him just right.
He smiled lazily, taking in their rich clothes, gold plated carriage and the beautiful woman that was with them.
“Good evening dear travelers. We’d hate to interrupt you but I’m afraid you haven’t paid the toll for traveling on these roads.” The man said calmly, his smile turning into a smirk.
“There was no toll.” Sesshomaru replied back, his face looking like it was carved from ice.
The man sighed sadly, “Ah, but there was my friend. So now for forcing us to come and track out down, time wasted, energy spent the toll is up to...all your gold, horses, weapons and that woman.” he smiled seductively at Sesshomaru, “I’d like to take you to cutie, but my men have a thing for women unfortunately.”
Rin growled slightly from behind Sesshomaru, her hands going for her weapons. “If you even look at me funny, I’m slicing your eyes out.” she warned.
The man smiled, his mask moving up like his eyebrows were lifting in surprise. “Oh, a fiery one aren’t you? My men will like that very much.” he purred.
He sighed again, looking up at the moon, “We don’t have very much time, so unless you give up peacefully, we’ll have to take your lives as payment instead.” he waited a beat. “No? Very well then.” he lazily waved a hand and with wild roars his men attacked.
“I was told you were loyal to the death of Seven and its leader. Would you really kill your brothers and leader’s daughter like this Jakotsu?” Rin asked loudly, stepping in front of Sesshomaru.
The man’s eyes flared open. “Stop!” he commanded and his men obeyed in unison.
He stared at Rin, “What do you know about Seven?” he asked.
Bankotsu, Renkotsu, and Suikotsu stepped up to flank Rin and Sesshomaru and the man gasped. “My father was Taromaro Aomori, leader of Seven.” Rin said formally. “I am Rin Aomori, the new commander of Seven.” her face softened and she took a step closer. “And I’m the child you would sneak candy to.”
Jakotsu shakily reached up to drag his mask off, his hand trembling. “Rin, Bank, Renko, Suikotsu.” he whispered. “How can it be?” he asked.
Rin heard Sesshomaru sigh from beside her, “How many more times are we going to have to go through this?” he murmured, annoyed.
“Naraku killed Taromaro and Rin. I saved Rin and she lived happily with four caretakers until she and her other allies decided this was the opportune time to fight Kikyo and get revenge for her father and mother. She thinks she needs Seven however so I promised her I would find its members and help her build the group again.” Sesshomaru said bluntly, ignoring the shocked robbers and glancing at Rin. “Did I miss anything?” he asked.
She glared back at him, “No.” she hissed and turned back to Jakotsu’s amazed, shocked and slightly confused look. “Well, Sesshomaru has told you why we’re here, will you? Will you come back to Seven?” Rin asked hopefully.
Jakotsu looked around at his men, thinking deeply. Finally he grinned, shrugging, “Sure, the robber business was getting old anyway. You want to spend the night with the group and we’ll set out in the morning?” he asked cheerfully.
Rin grinned back and hugged him, “We’d love to.” she said cheerfully and the other Seven members went up to greet him.
Rin looked over Bankotsu’s shoulder as he was clapping Jakotsu’s shoulder at Sesshomaru, standing alone with the coldest look she’d ever seen on him.
Jakotsu whistled loudly, “Hey! Someone give these men a horse!” he ordered and the men rushed to do his bidding.
Rin pushed through the crowd of men, eyes locked on Sesshomaru’s form. She gratefully accepted the reins of a horse from one of the robbers and slowly stepped up to Sess.
She bit her lip and forced herself to meet his golden eyes when they looked down at her.
“Ride with me?” she asked quietly.
He looked at her for a moment, before nodding and sliding in a roll of his papers inside his shirt. He smoothly took the reins from her hands and helped her up, sliding in close behind her.
She held her breath when her arms settled around her waist, the cradle of his legs supporting her firmly and his chin gently brushing against the top of her head.
“Let’s move out men!” Jakotsu called and they rode into the woods, following Jakotsu and this robbers closely.
And Rin closed her eyes and focused only on Sesshomaru and the feel of him around her.

A Few Hours Later at the Bandit Camp-

“You still haven’t told me why you became a robber Jakotsu. The others seemed to understand what Sesshomaru was doing when he put those gold plates on the carriage but I had no clue what was going on.” Rin brought up as she and her men sat around a bonfire alone, cleaning weapons or swinging back a mug of beer.
Jakotsu sighed in pleasure as he put his cup down, wiping his mouth clean, “Well, my father was a bandit, taught me everything he knew and I picked up a few tricks here and there. If it hadn’t been for your father I never would have quit the business.” he started to explain, passing his mug to be refilled by a pretty bandit boy. He shrugged taking another long swallow. “I always knew I would go back to being a robber if anything ever happened to Seven and that’s what I did.” he scowled suddenly, glaring at the other Seven members.“Only problem was these jerks gave me a conscience so I only steal from the rich who can afford to give a few coins here and there now.”
Rin paused in sharping her sword and looked at him. “‘A few coins?’” she asked skeptically.
“Wellll, maybe a little more then a few.” he finally admitted. He brightened, suddenly starting to grin. “Cutie’s back!” he squealed.
Rin smiled at Sesshomaru as he dropped down gracefully besides her. “Sesshomaru! You finally came back!”she said happily while her men shared looks with each other. “Where were you for so long?” she asked.
He took out his sword and started to sharpen it, “Nowhere important.” he said cooly.
Seven looked at each other again. “You sure it wasn’t important Lord Sesshomaru? We would hate to see you get into trouble.” Bankotsu said softly, looking at him over the rim of his cup before taking a slow sip, his meaning clear.
“Ah, don’t worry Bank, it’s not that kind of trouble, the nearest brothel is a day’s walk away from here.” Jakotsu pointed out and waggled his eyebrows lecherously at Sess. “And of course if he needs a different kind of companionship, well I’m always a few steps away.” he cooed.
Sesshomaru coldly glared at him, “If Rin did not need you, you would be dead where you sit.” he warned softly.
“So where were you?” Suikotsu asked, genuinely interested.
Sesshomaru mentally sighed and wondered why he was doing this. “I was looking for a sword.”
Rin looked up at him, “You found the Tetsusaiga?”
“No.” he said shortly.
She looked at him and he tried hard to ignore her. “Well tell us what made you think you found it, maybe we can help.”
Sesshomaru seriously doubted any of them could, but he decided to humor her. “The only clue I’ve ever known of it’s location was a riddle my father left behind. ‘Seen, but never seen. Protected, but never known to its protector.’” he quoted. “I believed it to be in a graveyard, or hidden in a tombstone but it hasn’t turned up yet.”
The Seven sat quietly for once, thinking deeply. Jakotsu brightened and Sesshomaru had the urge to groan.
“I know!” he said excitedly. “Seen, but never seen. Protected but never known to it’s protector. It’s so obvious!” he exclaimed.
Sesshomaru fought for patience, “What is it?” he asked tightly.
“My monster sword!” his hips jerked lewdly. “It’s always hidden behind these pants I have to wear, but you can see it because of how magnificent it is!” he dropped down in front of Sesshomaru, spreading himself spread eagle “So take me! Use my mighty sword as need be. I’ll happily sheath it wherever you wish.” he said dramatically.
Rin picked her lower jaw off the forest floor in time to see Sesshomaru’s eyes go red. She threw herself across him. “Sesshomaru! Please don’t kill him, he was kidding!” she begged. She kicked at his side. “Get away you moron!” she hissed and Bankotsu and Renkotsu quickly dragged him away.
He growled low in his throat and grabbed Rin suddenly, flipping her over in his lap and bringing his mouth down on hers.
Rin’s eyes widened and when she opened her mouth to gasp his tongue swept in, sending her senses reeling and her eyes closing as her arms slide around him. This was what she’d always dreamt of, this heat, this passion, this...forcefulness. And at the same time, an exquisite tenderness that made her feel so cherished.
Sesshomaru...
Finally when her lungs were screaming for air Sesshomaru gently pulled away, their lips still clinging to each others and popping apart quietly. They stared in each other eyes, Sesshomaru’s eyes were so hot they could have been melting pools of gold.
Bankotsu groaned, clutching at his face, “My eyes!” he cried. “My eyes are burning!”he cried.
His gaze turned thoughtfully for a moment before he broke his gaze away from her to glare coldly at Jakotsu, ignoring Bankotsu. “That is the kind of companionship I like.” he gently set her on the ground and strode away.
Grimacing, Bankotsu took a large swallow of his beer. “And on that note, let’s get to bed. We’ve got a long way to travel and since we have the last loyal Seven member there isn’t any other reason to stick around.”
Jakotsu nodded, “I’ll show you to your tents as soon as I pass my leadership down.” he said, getting up and wiping the dirt off his back, already recovered from his near death.
He paused next to the Rin and tossed something on her lap before continuing on.
Rin glanced down and smiled when she saw the brightly wrapped chocolates. She decided to wait to eat them, still enjoying the faint taste of Sesshomaru lingering on her tongue.
“Oh yeah, we almost forgot.” Jakotsu said, sounding rushed as he jogged back. He looked over at the other Seven members. “You guys want to do this now? It’d be dramatic with the stars and night.” Jakotsu said to them.
They looked at each other, shrugging. “Might as well.” Bankotsu said casually.
In one fluid movement all the men that had been sitting stood up, drawing short daggers out of their sleeves. Bankotsu, Jakotsu, Renkotsu and Suikotsu surrounded her in a semi circle, going down on their knees and driving the point of their knives in the soil in front of her.
Bowing their heads they crossed their free hand over their chest, “I swear from this day forth I will obey you at all times, and in all things, follow you even into hell, and protect your life with mine. I place myself under your command, Lady Rin of Seven.” they vowed in unison solemnly.
Rin stared at them before getting up and touching each of them lightly on their head, murmuring before each one, “I accept your pledge and swear not to take it lightly.”
After, when they got up, leaving her alone for a little bit,and yelling at Jakotsu about stupid he was for offering his ‘sword’ to Sess, she leaned back and laid her head against the wood of the log, staring up at the stars, thinking she saw the shape of Sesshomaru’s lips and Seven’s faces in the bright night sky.

Kikyo

“Finally you’ve returned Yura!” Kikyo scolded as they sat in her secret bedroom together. “I almost thought something went wrong with that wind bitch. Tell me, did you kill her like I ordered you to?”she asked eagerly.
Yura sat back in her chair, hesitating. “Yes, well...I tried to.” she said slowly.
Kikyo froze, “What do you mean, you tried to?” she asked slowly.
Yura sighed, playing restlessly with her hair. “This...group of people showed up unexceptedly. There was so many of them and they managed to rescue the witch.” she scowled suddenly. “If that naughty bitch wasn’t there I bet I could have taken them.” she hissed, her fists clenching.
“What bitch?” Kikyo asked, wondering if there was something she could blackmail or bribe her with to work for her.
Yura shrugged, “I’ve never seen her before, but she and some of the others looked vaguely familiar.” she thought for a moment, frowning. “Though as I was leaving I heard the witch call her ‘Kag’. Such a nickname is fitting for a brat, don’t you think?”
Kikyo felt pure shock numb her system before the anger set in, making her tremble and clutch her fists together as her miko energy surrounded her in a dangerous purple haze.
“Kagome.” She hissed between her clenched teeth.
Yura carefully got up and slowly started backing away as Kikyo stalked to the painting on her wall and pressed one of the angel heads angrily. The door swung open and Kikyo grabbed the little girl that came out by the throat.
“Mirror, Mirror who is the fairest in the land?” she asked, violently shaking her.
“Mistress, you-“
”I order you to tell me the truth you brat! Mirror, Mirror, who is the fairest?” she roared.
Kanna closed her eyes as the mist in her mirror swirled around to show an image of a young woman training with a sword.
“Kagome is the fairest in all the land, Mistress.”



AN: Well, hoped this update made up for it! Anyway, next chapter is my 50th chapter written in both my fics and to mark such a special occasion this story is going to start moving fast. Which also means this story is nearing the end but I’ll address that later. Hope you all enjoyed it, please, please, please, please, please review and pray my teachers don’t give me so much work again!!