InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Phoenix Blade: Time Lapse ❯ Return of the Prodigal ( Chapter 70 )

Disclaimer: Don't own…don't sue. Tormenting them purely for my own sadistic pleasure. All characters and most situations owned by Rumiko Takahashi, Shogakukan Publishing, and VIZ is in the dog-pile somewhere, too.

 

A/N: You may notice a change in terminology in this chapter; I've begun making the necessary edits in previous chapters for reposting, but from here on in the fic, Inuyasha's fire-rat will be referred to as a `suikan' (thanks to Nokomarie the Snake for her research on medieval Japanese clothing; a suikan has long, trailing, ribbon-trimmed sleeves and an asymmetrical neckline. It gives a `young, energetic and festive' appearance to the wearer, according to the notes).

 

As it turns out, a `haori' is the modern version of a kind of coat called a `dobuku' worn by samurai over the kimono in the Sengoku Jidai era; Naraku is occasionally depicted wearing one in the manga. Juban will also change to `kosode', since all the variations of `juban' worn today developed out of the basic kosode worn in the Heian period, when court ladies sported multi-layered robes such as those worn by Inuyasha's mother, Izayoi, in the `Unmother' episode (thanks to Midoriko-Sama for her amazing pictorial essay on Heian clothing styles posted on LiveJournal several months ago); I also discovered that `kimono' is a blanket term meaning `clothing', and doesn't specifically refer to the glamorous outer garment we associate with it. Instead, there are umpteen dozen different terms to identify exactly which style of kimono the person is wearing.

 

The demonic energy surrounding the youkai characters will change to `youki' (thanks to Susanne TJ for her erudite explanation of the differences between `youki', `jyaki' and `shouki' as well). I began writing the fic before I had a real understanding of some of these terms from the manga; better late than never, I suppose!

 

The Phoenix Blade: Time Lapse

Chapter 70: Return of the Prodigal

 

Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж

Sengoku Jidai

On final approach to the watchtower at Edo

 

Miroku transferred his staff to one hand, and used the other to pull Sango a little more snugly against him. The slayer loosened the reins and leaned back into his embrace, then turned her head so that he could press a kiss to her temple, her hair streaming away over his shoulder in the wind of Okibi's passage. Behind him, Kirara's purring body was wedged in between his rear and the massive saddlebags as the neko-youkai sheltered from the wind.

 

The monk squinted against the westerly sun to check on the positions of the twin escorts keeping pace with the golden-scaled tenbaryu; Okibi seemed to enjoy being the leader of their little flight and her muscles moved easily as they soared through the evening sky towards home. Satisfied that Ieji and Ita were where they should be, Miroku lowered his chin to rest on Sango's shoulder. “Where shall we land, my love? On the path leading into the village, or directly in the paddock?”

 

“All the creatures except Ieji's tenbaryu have been through the wards before, and he knows what to expect so…” The slayer paused before finishing her answer, and then she pointed beyond the swiftly approaching wooden watchtower. “Unless I miss my guess, that's Kaede-sama out in her herb garden with Shippo and Shiori; we should probably make it easier on old bones and go to her.”

 

Miroku followed the line of her arm and peered against the wind. “You are correct, my love… Shippo is waving frantically, so we have been spotted. Okibi, please take us to where Kaede-sama awaits.” The tenbaryu chirped and altered her course slightly, plunging through the barrier and veering around the watchtower; Miroku blithely saluted the startled look-out with his jingling staff as they flashed past at the man's eye level.

 

Shiori helped Kaede to stand upright as Shippo flew towards the arrivals, not waiting for Okibi to fully touch down before he swarmed up her foreleg, over her withers and into Sango's lap. “Where's Kagome? Where's Inuyasha? Why are these guys with you?” he demanded, his small hands cupping Sango's cheeks as he peered into her face, his green eyes so close that her own went slightly cross-eyed.

 

Miroku reached up to pat the kit's back. “There has been some misadventure, Shippo-kun, but it would be better to speak of it in private rather than make a spectacle of ourselves out here…” A high-pitched scream from over their heads made them all duck and glance sharply upwards.

 

A fiery steel-grey creature hovered above them, a namesake brimstone-scented cloud wreathing his head, baleful red eyes glowing above bared fangs. Kumo's attention zeroed in on the tenbaryu ridden by Ieji and Ita; for a sickening moment it appeared that he would attack them, but then Okibi let out a shrill cry. Miroku, Sango and Shippo all bailed off her back as Kumo landed in front of his herd mate and rapid-fire chirps filled the air.

 

Kumo appeared more and more agitated, his eyes rolling and showing the vivid yellow where the whites of a horse's eyes would have been, and then he began hissing while gouging great furrows in the ground with his clawed hooves. Okibi's vocalizing changed to a series of soft trills and she stepped forward, rubbing her muzzle soothingly up and down his heavily arched neck. Kumo jerked away, his lips curling back over his fangs, but then Kirara leapt up to perch between Okibi's ears and she proceeded gave the stallion a yowling earful, her twin tails fluffed straight up. Shippo clapped his hands over his ears, his face gone rather pale.

 

When Kumo twisted his massive head away and flattened his leathery ears as if he didn't want to hear something, the watching humans and demons were startled to see Kirara snarl, lean over at a precarious angle and rake the tenbaryu's cheek with her claws, leaving a tracery of incandescent orange twining down his silvery hide. Kumo snorted in surprise, rearing slightly, but then gave the neko-youkai his full attention. Kirara shook herself and then mewed over her shoulder. Ieji and Ita slipped from their backs as their tenbaryu hesitantly moved forward in response to the fire-cat's summons.

 

Both creatures bowed their heads to the grey stallion, and it appeared for all the world that the newcomers were giving a report to Kumo. Sango murmured to Kaede, “Now I know why Kirara spent so much time with those two when we'd stop to rest on our way here; she was questioning them.” The chorus of squeaks and chirrups died away, and then Kumo's white eyelashes fluttered down as he gave every appearance of thinking carefully before emitting a huffy growl that was answered by all three tenbaryu. The watchers quickly glanced at each other, and then Shippo startled as Kirara yowled imperiously in his direction.

 

The kit jumped down from his vantage point in Sango's arms and nervously made his way towards the group of demonic beasts. Kirara leapt to the ground and directed a series of trilling mews at him; he nodded and scampered back. “Miroku, can you write a note to send with Kumo, to say that you've all arrived safely? The rest of the tenbaryu have agreed to guard Arashi while he's gone.”

 

“Where's he going?” Sango asked, eyeing the group of scaly creatures who were now companionably butting heads and rubbing muzzles.

 

“To the fortress; he'll bring back news for us.”

 

The monk bowed slightly. “It shall be done immediately,” he promised, and absently began patting down his robes for his brushes, ink and paper.

 

Kaede became aware of the gathering crowd of curious villagers and stumped forward, Shiori clinging shyly to her skirts. “Let us retire to my hut, away from prying eyes. Monk, wilt thou write a note for me as well?”

 

“Of course, Kaede-sama. Shippo-kun, would you like to send a message to Kagome-sama and Inuyasha?”

 

Tears welled up in the kitsune's eyes, but he bravely dashed them away and stood up very straight. “Yes, please, Miroku. B-but… what happened? Why is Kumo so upset? Wh-what happened to Kagome?” The monk swiftly scooped Shippo up in his arms and began crossing the field towards Kaede's hut, Sango jogging beside him.

 

Ieji and Ita approached the elderly miko, who sized them up with a dark, penetrating eye as they knelt before her. “We have been assigned to this village until the rest of your pack return, Kaede-sama,” Ieji said as both he and Ita bowed their heads.

 

Kaede was silent for a long moment. “Sesshomaru-sama is taking us under his protection?”

 

“Hai.”

 

“Very well then; after we send word to thine master and ye tend to thy mounts, we will dine. Luckily I made an extra large pot of stew… then we will have to decide where to lodge thee…”

 

“The stables next to our animals will be fine, Kaede-sama,” Ieji interjected hastily and just as quickly quailed under her sharp look.

 

“I do not think that the stables are appropriate quarters for members of Sesshomaru-sama's personal guards; I will consult with the headman, but for tonight thou will stay with me.”

 

“H-hai, Kaede-sama.” The entire conversation had gone on with Shiori still hidden behind Kaede, and Ita's nose twitched as he picked up the scent of the little hanyou's nervousness. As Ieji rose and offered his arm to the elderly miko, Ita scooted over until he could see the little girl.

 

“Shiori-sama?” he asked, keeping his voice gentle. “Inuyasha-sama specifically commanded me to help you with your flying practise, but he didn't say how I was supposed to do that… would you tell me about it?”

 

Bright red-violet eyes peeked through dark lashes at the smiling inu-youkai, and then Shiori hesitantly stepped out from behind the shelter of Kaede's voluminous hakama. She sized him up and obviously found him agreeable, because when Ita held out his long fingered hand, the little girl took it without hesitation. Kaede coughed lightly, and the mismatched foursome followed in the monk and slayer's wake; the crowd of villagers dispersed. The small herd of tenbaryu stayed clustered around the grey stallion; a light twittering hum replaced the anxious vocalizations from before.

 

Kirara washed her face and paws, completely unconcerned with the large talons and hooves thudding into the dirt around her; once her ears were smoothed to her satisfaction, she flaunted her tails and tripped off in the direction taken by her humans, wondering how difficult it was going to be to train the two inu-youkai in her ways and methods.

 

Shortly thereafter, a tear-stained Shippo rode Miroku's shoulder as the monk strode through the twilight to where the tenbaryu awaited. Ieji and Ita followed a few paces behind, ready to take their mounts to the paddock and then enjoy a bowl of Kaede's rabbit stew. Four sets of yellow and red cat's-slit eyes gleamed as the animals silently watched their approach; Okibi swung out to nuzzle Miroku's cheek. He scratched her under the chin in greeting, and then stepped up to Kumo.

 

The massive stallion observed Miroku with interest as the monk flattened his palm to reveal the small leather pouch he carried. “This contains messages for Kagome-sama and Inuyasha; will you deliver it for us?”

 

Kumo stretched out his neck to sniff at the pouch, his nostrils flaring as he snuffled. Apparently finding everything in order, he snorted a cloud of hellish-scented steam and then waited expectantly. Miroku was momentarily baffled as to where he was supposed to attach the pouch to a bridle-less and saddle-less tenbaryu, but Ita stepped into the breach.

 

“Let me retrieve a courier strap…” His tenbaryu came at his call, and he rummaged in the pack secured on the rear of the saddle, emerging with a narrow strip of leather adorned with jingling metal fittings. Ita deftly tied the pouch to one of the curved metal hooks, buckled the leather strap closed and handed the whole thing to Miroku. “Place it around Kumo's neck and he's ready to leave.”

 

Allowing Kumo to first sniff the leather, even though Miroku knew darn well that the tenbaryu had listened to the entire conversation, the monk stretched to reach the loop over the tall animal's head. He almost didn't make it, but then Shippo took the strap out of his hands, jumped up between Kumo's ears and slid it over the crest of his arched neck. Miroku arranged the strap so that the pouch rested in the crease of muscle on Kumo's broad chest. Shippo jumped back down onto the monk's shoulder and as the tenbaryu's head swung towards them, the kit reached out and wrapped the startled animal's muzzle in a hug. “B-be safe, Kumo… come back soon!”

 

As soon as Shippo released him, wiping tears away with the back of his fist, Kumo swept a large black tongue over the kit's face, nearly knocking him off Miroku's shoulder. He then chirped several times and the rest of the herd fell away as he crouched before launching himself vertically into the darkening sky. Shippo grabbed a handful of Miroku's hair for balance, waving madly at the tenbaryu as Kumo levelled out and sped off towards the fading sunset.

 

Silence fell over the herb garden, now furrowed by massive clawed hooves and taloned feet, but fortunately not anywhere close to the neat rows of daikon and cabbages yet to be harvested. Finally, Miroku jangled his staff. “The meal will be almost ready by now… shall we, gentlemen? I am sure that your mounts would appreciate some fodder after their introduction to the rest of the herd that calls our paddock home.”

 

“How is the mare that Kumo put in foal?” Ieji asked, rubbing his blue-scaled tenbaryu's nose.

 

“She was fine when we left six days ago; I imagine that Juhi has been watching over her while Kumo came to see what all the fuss was about. Let's be on our way… yes, Shippo-kun?” Miroku bent an ear to the kit; his face went a little pale. “I assume you remember the layout of the village from your last visit? Please go ahead to the paddock and look after your mounts; I must attend to something.” Okibi bunted him in the chest as Ieji and Ita saluted, and the whole group of demonic creatures headed off in the direction of the stables; they had just reached the edge of the field when Shiori's pale figure gleamed briefly in the starlight. After a short conversation, she was boosted up onto a tenbaryu's back and the entire herd disappeared among the huts.

 

“Miroku… do you think Inuyasha and Kagome will be okay?” Shippo whispered anxiously, his tail at least twice its usual size and his body positively vibrating.

 

The monk eyed the just-risen sliver of moon with a jaundiced expression. “I certainly hope so, Shippo-kun. There isn't much we can do except hope… and trust in Sesshomaru-sama.”

 

“Trust him? Are you crazy? He's…”

 

Miroku clapped his gauntleted hand over the kit's mouth before he uttered an undoubtedly very unflattering comment about the taiyoukai. “Sesshomaru-sama swore on his honour that Kagome-sama would be safe; I do not believe that his honour would permit him to do Inuyasha any injury on his human night. He wishes to kill him in battle, remember, to gain the Tetsusaiga.”

 

Tears glossed Shippo's green eyes and his lip trembled. “I'm j-just so scared that they're a-already d-d-d-dead…”

 

Miroku pulled the kit into his embrace and hugged him tightly. “Sesshomaru-sama also gave Inuyasha his word that Kagome-sama would not die; I expect that if it came down to it, he would use Tenseiga to save her.”

 

“B-but what if Inuyasha was too far away…?” Shippo quavered, and Miroku understood, soothingly petting the kit's hair as they began to move back towards the hut and its cozy welcome.

 

“I am sure our hanyou is fine; Sesshomaru-sama can move incredibly fast if he has to. Now, my fine young kitsune, we must come up with jobs to occupy our inu-youkai friends since they will be joining our community for the duration…”

 

Shippo wrinkled his nose. “Get `em to shovel out the tenbaryu dung! That stuff reeks!”

 

“With their sensitive noses, that would be cruel and unusual punishment, Shippo-kun,” Miroku chuckled. “I imagine that they would be keen hunters; perhaps they can work with you on your skills in Inuyasha's absence?”

 

The kit went quiet, and then he nodded. “That's a good idea; they're really strong, too, so they can help with the woodcutting like Inuyasha did last fall. The village girls will love them if they take off their tunics!” Shippo grinned cheekily up at Miroku. “Since you're a married man now, or the closest thing to it, you don't have to worry about `losing' to them!” A moment later, the kit was rubbing his bottom and grumbling as the monk stepped over him and continued serenely on his way towards the hut. “Loser…!”

 

“Consider your own reaction should Shiori-sama decide that she prefers the company of dogs to foxes, Shippo-kun,” the monk tossed back over his shoulder.

 

The kitsune snorted, jumped to his feet and caught up. “Cheap shot, houshi, and no chance of that. Just like Sango is yours, well, Shiori is mine.”

 

“Is she, Shippo-kun? Aren't you a little… young… to be making that pronouncement with such surety?” Miroku asked, his eyebrows disappearing into his hairline.

 

Shippo raked the monk with a decidedly superior look. “Next to me, you're just a kid, Miroku. I'm over a hundred years old; your great-grandkids will be asking me for stories about their esteemed ancestor, so what kinds of things do you want me to tell them?” The kit smirked at the shocked look on the monk's face. “Think about it, houshi… that smells great, Kaede-baba! Are we ready to eat?” He bounced into the hut, leaving Miroku blinking after him.

 

Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж

 

Sesshomaru stared dumbly at the sheathed Tetsusaiga, his mind in an unaccustomed ferment. He glanced up at Inuyasha's face, and found there an unreadable expression… but the hanyou's ears telegraphed everything. Those sensitive semaphores alternately flattened anxiously into his wild mane or perked forward, quivering.

 

Is he offering me the blade? Without a fight? No… the barrier around Tetsusaiga prevents me from touching it… is he belittling me? Taunting me with what I cannot have? Surely the hanyou is not so foolish! He checked Inuyasha's scent just to make sure it matched the uncertainty of his drooping ears. No. He is nervous, not mocking. What in the seven hells is he up to? Sesshomaru's yellow eyes resembled shards of glass as his thoughts sharply focused. He is submitting to me…? Is that even possible?

 

Inuyasha shuffled his feet a little and then stilled them, not wishing to look foolish, but the heavy silence weighed in on him. He watched Sesshomaru's eyes momentarily glaze and then intensify almost painfully as the possible reason for his action finally struck home. “Oi, Sesshomaru… do I have to say it?” he gruffly asked.

 

“State your purpose.” The tone was as cold as a winter wind.

 

Gritting his fangs, Inuyasha ignored his aching shoulder joint which was taking all the weight of the Tetsusaiga. The bastard just couldn't make it easy, could he? For Kagome's sake… I'll do it. “I am placing myself under your authority for the duration of our stay here.”

 

“You are submitting to me?”

 

Inuyasha's hackles went up, but he held onto enough civility to almost mask his rising anger as he growled out, “No. I am submitting to your authority as Lord of the West… not to you. Don't push it, Sesshomaru.”

 

Silence crackled around them for a long moment. “Why do you choose this path, Inuyasha?” Sesshomaru finally asked.

 

“For Kagome.” The sword wavered slightly as the ache in his arm became insistent.

 

“You humble yourself for her sake?”

 

“I would cut a deal with the Master of Hell himself if it would protect her.” Amber eyes blazed with intensity and blue cheek stripes became even darker and wider; Sesshomaru noted the accompanying flare of Inuyasha's youki and took the safer course of not provoking the hanyou further… at this time.

 

“Keep your weapon, little brother. It is more effective in your hand at this precise moment.”

 

Inuyasha slowly lowered the Tetsusaiga back to his side, warily eyeing Sesshomaru's impassive expression. “Do you accept?”

 

The taiyoukai narrowed his gaze, considered all the possible ramifications of his next words… and then almost smiled at how well they dovetailed with his current plan involving the miko. “Will you follow my orders?”

 

The hanyou visibly twitched. “Within reason. My mate's safety comes first.”

 

“Define `within reason'.”

 

“Kagome first, Rin second and everything after that is up for discussion.”

 

Sesshomaru blinked. “You include my ward? Why?”

 

“I protect humans with the Tetsusaiga, Sesshomaru. Unless you have a few tithe concubines from the border lands stashed in the women's quarters, I'm guessing that Kagome and Rin make up the full complement currently in residence at the Western Fortress.”

 

The taiyoukai blinked again at this pronouncement delivered without a single example of profanity, and took a closer look at his half-brother. Inuyasha's back was straight, his head proudly held high… and unbidden came the thought that the hanyou looked every inch a princeling of the House, despite his grubby kosode and absolutely filthy hakama. There was a moment of absolute stillness, when the only thing moving in the light breeze was strands of their silvery hair… the hair, along with the golden-hued eyes that marked them as the sons of the Inu no Taisho.

 

Thinking too much of their similarities would only lead to trouble, Sesshomaru decided. “Very well. Do not fail.”

 

“Keh. As if.” With Inuyasha's cocky pronouncement, the moment was over… but something between them had shifted, and Sesshomaru wondered again if he could control the wild cards handed to him in the forms of the hanyou and the miko. A better question is… how much of the fortress will be left standing?

 

He flicked his hair over his shoulder and gestured at the bathhouse. “Someone will attend you.”

 

“I don't need any fucking assistance. I've been wiping my own ass for decades now.” Inuyasha shot back as he turned and bounded up the stairs onto the veranda of the building. “Good luck finding someone willing to have anything to do with a hanyou.”

 

As Inuyasha disappeared into the bathhouse, Sesshomaru allowed a small smirk to cross his features. I can think of one… and he's already slightly trained…

 

Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж

 

Inuyasha sluiced off the suds with a bucket of warm water and shook out his sopping hair before hopping into the square wooden tub. Settling back against one side and stretching his legs out, he exhaled slowly. Shit, this feels good… can't waste time, though. Gotta get back to Kagome… A body arriving in the heated air of the bathing room had him snapping to attention and reaching for the Tetsusaiga.

 

A flustered teenage inu-youkai bearing an armload of towels was not what he was expecting. The youth froze in place at the sight of the snarling, naked hanyou crouched in a battle-stance in the steaming water, levelling a massive gleaming sword at him. Inuyasha sized up the gape-mouthed look and the way the towels were in imminent danger of being dumped onto the wet floor, then sheathed Tetsusaiga. “What do you want, runt?”

 

The teen's mouth worked, but no sounds came out; Inuyasha sighed heavily, propped his weapon against the tub, and seated himself. Having less bare skin to gawk at seemed to help; words came out instead of strangled noises. “Sesshomaru-sama sent me to attend you, Inuyasha-sama.” He stopped again at the arched dark eyebrow.

 

“I told the fu- er, him that I didn't need help! What's your name?”

 

“G-gitoumaru.” The teen couldn't believe his eyes, or his questionable luck. He'd been woken out of a deep sleep by his father and told that his assignment had just expanded to include Kagome-sama's mate. His lady mother was almost giddy with excitement, exclaiming how their family's position was secure… but his father had bristled at that comment and sternly ordered her back to her futon.

 

At the entrance to the bathhouse garden, his father had taken the stack of towels from the bowing servant and handed them to him as if the fabric symbolized some form of binding contract. “Make me proud of you, and be worthy of the blade you carry, Gitoumaru. This is a signal honour, but it carries danger with it as well.” He'd gulped and stared up at Kiriaisai with wide eyes; his father had gripped his shoulder as if he were truly a man and bent his head to whisper, “There are those who will be angry that Inuyasha-sama is once again among us; protect him with your life.” Since these were Sesshomaru-sama's exact words regarding the fortress' other exotic guest, the gravity of his assignment abruptly struck Gitoumaru very hard, and he'd shivered as he realized just how dangerous the situation might become.

 

The hanyou sized up the cobalt-striped teenager who was gazing at him with an expression that was a mixture of apprehension and awe, and sighed again. “Do you have any training at all in this sort of shi-, ah, I mean, responsibility?”

 

Gitoumaru straightened up. “Until I was assigned to Kagome-sama, I was Sesshomaru-sama's personal valet.”

 

“His valet, huh?” Inuyasha realized that glaring at the teen wasn't helping the situation, so softened his tone. “You're the sucker who has to tie that fancy sash, then?”

 

“Er… yes.” Gitoumaru snapped out of his nervousness, and moved to set the towels down next to the somewhat crumpled bundle of fresh clothing; he regarded that with a jaundiced expression, but he really wrinkled his nose at the mouldering pile of grubby linen and bloodied fire-rat on the floor. “Excuse me, Inuyasha-sama… I'll just dispose of these in the laundry…”

 

“Rancid snake guts aren't your thing, whelp?”

 

Gitoumaru quickly looked up, caught the hanyou's grin and returned it. “No… your suikan smelled pretty bad with fresh blood on it, but three-day old guts are definitely in a class by themselves.”

 

“How do you know what it smelled like?”

 

“I ended up in the laundry at the same time as your suikan, Sesshomaru-sama's pelt and Kagome-sama's armour; the laundresses will be thrilled to have the rest of your wardrobe show up in even worse condition.”

 

“How soon will I get them back?” Inuyasha tried to keep the edge of worry out of his voice. The New Moon is tomorrow night…even if Tetsusaiga won't transform, at least I'd have my fire-rat…

 

“It took two days just to clean your jacket,” Gitoumaru said. He considered the encrusted hakama in his hands for a minute before continuing, “With dried blood like this… probably three at the minimum.”

 

“Shit. Can't do much about that… hey, Git… is there any chance the kitchens might be still open?”

 

The teen startled a little at the abbreviation of his proud name, but answered readily, “There's always a kettle of stew on for the night watches; would you like me to bring you a bowl?”

 

“That'd be much appreciated. Make it a big bowl; I'm starving.” Inuyasha grinned as Gitoumaru bowed and disappeared, then relaxed in the quiet. Abruptly, something the teen was wearing poked him hard and he sat straight up. That was Kagome's survival knife strapped to his arm! What the hell…? It went missing last spring… after she took the Shard from that young inu-youkai… and was cut on the cheek.

 

Settling back down, he sifted through his memory for more information on that incident, the night he'd cornered Kagome in the hot spring after they'd barely survived being caught by Naraku's illusion… when Kikyo had taken the Jewel Shards and given them to Naraku… but he try as he might, he couldn't remember much else. Well, not much else besides how close they'd come to really enjoying themselves before Sango interrupted them. If Gitoumaru really was Sesshomaru's body servant, the asshole is sending a strong message to the rest of the fortress by giving him to Kagome. I wonder who his sire is?

 

Inuyasha was out of the tub, dried off, and tying closed the dark blue silk hakama from the bundle that Sesshomaru had tossed him when Gitoumaru returned with a tray holding two large covered bowls, a teapot and a cup plus a small bowl fragrant with seasonings and decorated with slices of mushroom and plump shrimp. The hanyou zeroed in on the latter item. “Oi… is that Toku-san's special chawanmushi?” he asked eagerly, momentarily forgetting about the survival knife.

 

“Toku-san said it was your favourite…” Gitoumaru trailed off as Inuyasha fairly inhaled the savoury custard. “He made it especially because you were coming home.”

 

Inuyasha almost choked on the last spoonful. Home. “Keh… I'll bet there will be a few people less than thrilled that I'm back.”

 

Gitoumaru lowered his voice. “My father said much the same thing earlier. I am to help protect your life and that of Kagome-sama.” He moved to uncover the bowls of rice and stew. Spooning a generous portion of the sauced meat and vegetables over the steaming rice, he handed it and a pair of chopsticks to the hanyou.

 

Inuyasha shovelled in a few bites, then contemplated the youth while he chewed. Swallowing, he asked, “Who's your sire?”

 

“My father is Danshaku Kiriaisai, Sesshomaru-sama's sentouken.” Gitoumaru poured a cup of green tea and set it on the bench next to Inuyasha.

 

“I remember him; he was a guard captain when I was a pup.” Inuyasha held out the rice bowl for more topping. “How did he end up sentouken?”

 

Gitoumaru emptied the stew bowl over the rice. “About a hundred years ago, there was a coup attempt against Sesshomaru-sama; my father stood with him and helped defeat the insurrection.”

 

“Someone was crazy enough to challenge my brother?”

 

“It was a group that felt they should have been better rewarded for their actions after your father's death.” Gitoumaru found himself the focus of very fiery golden eyes and gulped.

 

“Just how would you know that? You weren't even born before my mother and I were thrown out, and you couldn't have been more than a pup at the time of this `coup'…” Inuyasha began, but halted at the stricken look on the youngster's face.

 

“I remember what it was like being besieged inside the keep, to watch inu-youkai slaughter other inu-youkai,” the teen whispered. “Adults don't pay attention to children, so I heard quite a bit in the aftermath that I probably shouldn't have. We must be careful, Inuyasha-sama. Not all of the original group who took it upon themselves to expel you and your lady mother were part of the rebellion; there are two who refrained and who still inhabit the fortress to this day.”

 

“Does Sesshomaru suspect their loyalty?” the hanyou asked; Gitoumaru only nodded, as if afraid to speak aloud. Inuyasha stacked the emptied bowls of rice and stew and picked up the cup of tea. As he sipped the liquid, he eyed the dark-haired youth over the rim before asking, “How did you acquire that knife?”

 

Gitoumaru glanced at the weapon adorning his arm and then back to the hanyou, obviously surprised. “You do not recognize it, Inuyasha-sama?”

 

“Of course I do; I'm just wondering how you happen to be wearing it.”

 

“Your lady gave it to me after my sword shattered in combat…”

 

“You're the one who cut her face?”

 

“It was an accident!” Gitoumaru squeaked.

 

“That's what she said, too…” Inuyasha drained the cup and set it neatly on the tray. “She's forgiven you, so who am I to hold a grudge? Thanks for the meal… I'd better get back to her before she sends one of the guards after me.” He caught up the clean white kosode and shrugged into it, then glanced at the silver-patterned dark blue and white robe Gitoumaru was holding… and his jaw nearly hit the floor when he recognized it. What the hell…? That's…! I'm supposed to wear this? Giving himself a shake, but wondering all the same, he allowed Gitoumaru to drape the heavy silk over his shoulders. However, when the youth waited for him to tuck in the layers, holding a dusky red sash ready for the finishing touch, Inuyasha snagged it from his hand and slung the length of silk over his shoulder. “I'll be taking it off in a minute or two, so don't bother.” He waggled his eyebrows suggestively, and Gitoumaru blushed. The youth hastily exited, and Inuyasha wondered if his jest had been misinterpreted as a proposition, until Gitoumaru returned carrying three pairs of soft black boots. The hanyou stared. “I haven't worn shoes since…”

 

“I saw them when I brought back the food; there are three sizes, Inuyasha-sama.” Gitoumaru knelt and compared the first boot to the bemused hanyou's foot, discarded it and tried another. “This one should fit.” He produced a pair of tabi and had them on along with the boots within seconds.

 

Inuyasha looked down at himself for a long moment, then purposefully folded the layers of fabric closed and tucked them into his hakama. Handing the sash to Gitoumaru he murmured, “Better go for the full effect, then.” The teen neatly smoothed the robes into place and rapidly tied a simple knot with the red silk. Inuyasha picked up the Tetsusaiga and sheathed it, feeling oddly calm despite the jolt he had received upon recognizing the clothing he was now wearing. “Thanks, Git. I'll see you in the morning.”

 

“Hai, Inuyasha-sama.”

 

Stepping outside the bathhouse door, Inuyasha took a deep breath of the cooler night air… and immediately detected Sesshomaru. The taiyoukai hovered in the darkness, yellow eyes eerily glowing. “Be in my study tomorrow morning as soon as you have eaten. We have matters to discuss.”

 

Inuyasha strode across the raked gravel until he was an arm's length away from Sesshomaru. “Is that an order?” he growled, folding his hands into his sleeves.

 

“If you wish.” The taiyoukai shrugged.

 

“Sesshomaru… why am I wearing this?”

 

“You are a member of this House.”

 

“What?”

 

“Keep your voice down, fool.”

 

Inuyasha leaned in, his eyes blazing. “What the fuck are you playing at, Sesshomaru? You've told me over and over again that I'm worthless and filthy, that my very existence sullies the family honour… yet I'm dressed in one of our father's old robes and given the trappings of a prince… what the hell are you up to?” he hissed, his fangs poking out over his lower lip and his cheek stripes widening.

 

Sesshomaru observed him very carefully before leaning down so that their hair briefly flowed together before whispering, “Strategy, little brother; ask your mate. Do not be late tomorrow.”

 

“That's it? That's… fuck,” Inuyasha hissed in frustration, but conscious of Gitoumaru's presence on the bathhouse veranda, he swallowed the rest of his fury, shot a blistering glare at Sesshomaru and stormed off. What the hell does that sneaky bastard have up his sleeve? As soon as Kagome's well enough to move, we're out of here!

 

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Back at the pavilion, he shucked his new boots outside the red-framed door and nodded to the guardsmen. “You two can shove off now.”

 

“We are your lady's personal guards; we remain on duty until relieved,” Saya answered, his eyes and his vivid red hair glowing in the pale lamplight.

 

Inuyasha paused, one hand on the screen. “All right…what time is breakfast served around here?”

 

“As soon as Momiji-san and Toku-san have their usual morning `discussion' about the day's menu,” Fuchi replied, his eyes twinkling.

 

“Damn… those two still going at it?” Inuyasha asked, chortling.

 

“Starting the day right for the past three and a half centuries… or so my mother says!”

 

Snickering, he slid the door open and stepped inside, closing it quickly behind him. Breathing deeply, he closed his eyes and for a moment remembered what this room looked like when his mother lived here, and he slept across the hall under the watch of his nursemaid, a teenage inu-youkai he was permitted to call Momiji-chan…

 

“Inuyasha…?”

 

“Coming, wench,” he called softly, rapidly crossing the tatami until he slipped between the screens. Kagome was sitting up… or trying to. She'd made it as far as propping herself up on one elbow, but was looking a little wobbly. Silver eyes widened and she gasped in surprise just before she slid back down flat on her back.

 

“Open the canopy… let me see you,” she whispered, and he complied. Kagome's brain stuttered. Yashita...

 

“Something wrong, wench? You look like you've seen a ghost,” he remarked, stepping inside the canopy and allowing it to fall closed behind him.

 

She managed a smile. “You look very handsome, Inuyasha. That colour really suits you.”

 

“Keh. These were my old man's robes,” he replied, as he laid the Tetsusaiga within easy reach on the mats next to Fenikkusuken and picked the knot open. He removed and folded the clothing neatly, reaching past Kagome to stack them at the head of the futon. Her hands caught at him as he leaned over her, touching his skin, winding in his damp hair.

 

“Your father's robes…?” she queried, searching his face.

 

He stroked his claws through her bangs and kissed her softly. “I'm supposed to ask you what Sesshomaru has planned… forget it right now. Let me look at you.” Folding the quilts down past her hips, he ran a claw tip under the neckline of her white kosode, followed it down to the sash binding her waist, found the knot, and pulled. As soon as the fabric loosened, he pushed it away from her body… and stopped in dismay at the sight of the bandaging. “Are you still bleeding?” he asked, sniffing, but couldn't detect any trace of fresh blood.

 

“Not any more; Momiji-san said these were more to remind me not to over-exert myself,” Kagome replied, watching him intently.

 

“Keh. They're coming off, then. I want to see what that fucking snake did to you.” He had the top layer of linen strips sliced through before she could protest.

 

“Momiji-san'll have your ears for this!” she hissed, trying to stop him from cutting through the next layer, knowing that he would blame himself for the damage to her body.

 

He gently batted her hands away and continued methodically stripping off the bandages. “Momiji of all people will understand why I need to do this… by the fifth hell…!” Inuyasha sucked in a sharp breath at the sight of the circular scar now occupying a swathe of creamy-golden skin just below the Jewel scar. He ran the pads of his fingertips over the discoloured flesh, his brow darkening. Kagome pressed her hand over his.

 

“It wasn't your fault, Inuyasha. I didn't even sense something that big…”

 

He didn't reply, just continued slicing through the bandages until she was bare to his inspection. Inspecting the second scar decorating her flat stomach, he then carefully rolled her onto her side and pulled all the strips away. Urging her arm free of the yukata sleeve, he stroked his fingers over the exit wounds on her back. Kagome shivered first under his touch and then again when he bent his head and began slowly licking the marks of her injuries.

 

His mouth and his hair moved over her as he methodically swept his tongue over the scars. Kagome held still, her heart beginning to race as her body reacted to the tender attention; a soft purring rumble vibrated the air between them as he rolled her onto her back and began kissing the bruises on her stomach. Kagome watched his softly drooping ears for a moment before using her free hand to stroke through his hair and begin rubbing the velvety fur.

 

Releasing her hand with a squeeze, he first yanked off his tabi before sliding under the quilts, pressing close against her as he arranged the bedding around them into a cozy cocoon. Holding her eyes for a moment longer, he lowered his head again and began kissing the injured flesh above her breast but it wasn't long before he moved his attention a few inches down. Kagome moaned softly and squirmed, but wondered why he was still wearing his silk hakama in bed.

 

He left her breast and worked his way up her throat until he nipped her lower lip. Blinking up at him between kisses, she managed to ask, “Koibito… aren't you getting undressed?”

 

“Keh. In this place? No way am I being caught with my pants down.”

 

She cocked her head. “Aren't Saya-kun and Fuchi-kun still on duty…?”

 

“They can't stop an assassin from out there, and I'll be damned if I let them sleep inside the room with us. I had your maid Ume move across the hall, too.”

 

“Afraid that we might corrupt the innocent?” she smiled, twirling a chunk of his sidelock around her fingertip.

 

“I'm here; you don't need her to look after you in the middle of the night any more.”

 

Kagome giggled. “Oh, really? Your nose can handle a chamber pot?”

 

“I'll take it outside and let the guards deal with it… hush, wench. You need to sleep so we can get the hell out of here as soon as possible.” He shifted both of them into the centre of the futon and tucked her against his chest. Burying his nose in her hair, he murmured, “I couldn't protect you again from being injured; I'm not taking any chances.”

 

Kagome, who was rather aroused from all the sensual attention he'd paid to her, pouted a bit in his embrace before snuggling close. However, she had to admit that fooling around wouldn't likely be a good idea; she was dizzy even though she was lying down because what was left of her blood had bunked off for parts further south than her brain. The sound of his heartbeat was comforting and she dropped off very quickly. Inuyasha only dozed; after a couple of hours, he carefully extracted himself from both the warm girl and the warm bed. Retrieving his clothing and the Tetsusaiga, he stepped outside the canopy before shrugging into the robes. Checking that Kagome hadn't wakened, he slipped outside the screens and dropped down cross-legged in front of the opening, propping his sword against his shoulder to wait for dawn and what would most likely be a very interesting day… one that would see the fading of his demonic power as the night of the New Moon approached.

 

Can it get any fucking better than this? Stuck in a fortress full of hostile inu-youkai on the night of my greatest weakness? Shit…

 

Ж Ж Ж Ж Ж

 

Trailed by a yawning Gitoumaru, Momiji bustled Ume ahead of her through the dawn-lit garden and past the koi pond, both teens loaded down with steaming trays fresh from the kitchens. Entering the pavilion, she acknowledged the salutes of Saya and Fuchi before plucking two large covered bowls and two sets of chopsticks off the tray carried by Gitoumaru. Handing them over to the guardsmen, she said, “Eat up, boys, and take the dishes back to the scullery on your way to the barracks.”

 

“Thank you, Oba-san,” Fuchi mumbled around a mouthful. Swallowing hastily when Momiji went to open the door to the inner room, he added, “I don't think Inuyasha-sama and Kagome-sama are awake yet…”

 

“They'll just have to become used to doing things on the fortress' schedule, won't they? Gitoumaru-kun, you wait out here until I call you in… Saya-kun, touch the food on that tray, and I'll have your hide.”

 

“Yes, my lady,” the red-head replied meekly enough, although his nose didn't stop twitching from the appetizing smell of smoked trout. Followed by Ume, Momiji swept into the room… and stopped so abruptly that the girl and her tray nearly collided with her back.

 

Framed by rich silk tapestries, a ghost from the past favoured the interlopers with an intense amber-eyed gaze. Swaying forward, Momiji moved dreamily until she was several paces away from the silent figure. Staring at the blue-marked face that easily invoked even older memories, she slowly fell to her knees and then bowed very deeply. “My lord… welcome home.”

 

A dark eyebrow arched as silver ears snapped forward from their concealment in the thick mane of hair. “Have you been into the sake already this morning? Since when do you bow to me, Momiji-san?”

 

The female inu-youkai rose from her bow and biffed him on the side of the head… then enfolded him into a motherly embrace, her tears dampening his hair. “I always knew you would one day return to this fortress in triumph, my lord,” she whispered, giving him another rib-cracking squeeze.

 

“Hardly in triumph,” he growled, but grinned affectionately at her all the same as she tweaked his ear. A long claw delicately traced the jagged edge of his cheek stripe.

 

“When did these markings appear?” Momiji asked.

 

“Only few months ago,” he replied. Further inquiry was interrupted by a yawn from inside the screens, and Momiji gestured Inuyasha towards the low table where the meal awaited.

 

“Inuyasha-sama is expected in Sesshomaru-sama's study before the council meeting begins, so if you wish to break your fast with your mate, rise and shine!” she called, and there was a sleepy grunt in return.

 

Ume slipped through the screens, and Inuyasha barely had time to get through his first bowl of plain rice before Kagome appeared, leaning heavily on Ume as she crossed the tatami. With a mild curse, he put down his food and sprang up to gather her in his arms. Sitting back down, he arranged her neatly in his lap before tilting her chin up with a claw. “You look so pale, koishii…”

 

“She lost most of her blood; it is a miracle that she survived. I trust you checked her injuries?” Momiji let Gitoumaru in; the youth blinked at the sight of his Kagome-sama cradled in her mate's arms before recovering enough to carry his tray across the room without spilling anything.

 

“Keh. I guess I owe Sesshomaru one, huh?” Inuyasha muttered, giving Kagome a squeeze while remaining blissfully unaware of the envious look directed his way by Gitoumaru.

 

“At least one, Inuyasha-sama.” Momiji winked at the hanyou and served out the smoked fish and pickles while Ume poured tea.

 

Kagome smiled gently at the group. “Good morning, everyone. Am I allowed to feed myself today?”

 

“Let's see how well you manage, shall we? You need to eat enough to help your body recover, so set to work. While Inuyasha-sama is meeting with Sesshomaru-sama, you and Rin-chan will bathe. Perhaps you would enjoy sitting in on her lessons?”

 

While they ate, the screens were folded back and the canopy looped up out of the way, the linens were changed and the futon shaken out. Kagome managed to eat most of her bowl's contents by herself; Inuyasha helped her with the last few bites before handing her over to Ume so that he could finish his own meal. They were sipping their tea when the thud of feet out in the corridor announced the changing of the guard.

“Good morning, Inuyasha-sama!” Kohire stuck his dark head into the room, grinning toothily. “This was delivered to the barracks this morning; I believe it belongs to your lady?” He extended a dirty, battered leather quiver on the tips of his fingers; the bow poking out of it wasn't in any better shape and both items stank to high heaven.

 

Before Inuyasha could answer, Momiji covered her nose with her sleeve and scowled. “Ugh. Gitoumaru-kun, caring for Kagome-sama's weapons falls under your responsibility. There's your first assignment!” As the guardsman gleefully handed over the begrimed items to the disgusted teen, a brightly dressed bundle of burbling excitement dodged around them and raced into the room.

 

“Kagome-sama! Inuyasha-sama! Good morning!” Rin carolled, skidding to a stop in front of the hanyou, clasping her hands behind her back and bouncing up and down.

 

Inuyasha couldn't help but grin at the perky child. “Mornin', pup. They let you loose this early in the day?”

 

“As soon as Anzu-san said that you were here, I ran right down to see you!”

 

“Rin-chan… did you eat your breakfast?” Momiji loomed, disapproval writ large on her face; the little girl hung her head and shuffled her feet on the tatami mats.

 

“Um… not completely…”

 

“If Rin-chan and I are bathing later, she might as well stay here and eat, Momiji-san,” Kagome offered, feeling suddenly very tired. Ume carefully laid her down among the cushions and adjusted the blanket over her legs; Inuyasha scooted over to kiss her lightly.

 

“Better go see what the asshole wa… ouch!” He snapped his head around, or tried to; his ear was pinched tightly between a sharp pair of claws.

 

“Inuyasha-sama, you will refrain from using such foul language while you are under your lord father's roof; he would have tanned your hide himself!” Momiji released the twitching ear and seated herself behind the hanyou. Producing a comb from her sleeve, she proceeded to briskly work her way through his thick mane. Inuyasha held still, knowing resistance was futile; he did, however vociferously object when it became clear that she intended to put up his hair into a topknot. “Indulge an old woman, Inuyasha-sama… and it certainly won't hurt to remind people whose son you are.” She deftly secured the mass with a leather thong, fluffed his bangs, and then urged him to his feet. Ume handed over the discarded tabi and sash that she'd separated out from the bedding, and he found himself being efficiently straightened and made presentable in no time flat.

 

Momiji fussed over the wrinkled condition of the dark blue hakama, but finally gave his shoulders a final dusting, the long tail of silver hair a gentle tug and pronounced herself satisfied. “Take one of the guardsmen and Gitoumaru-kun; you should at least have a sword-carrier, even if you don't actually let him touch your weapon.”

 

“I don't think he can, anyways; Tetsusaiga has a barrier around it.” Inuyasha nodded to Momiji and quickly ruffled Rin's hair before kneeling to kiss Kagome. “See you in a bit, koishii. Don't tire yourself out.”

 

She smiled quietly up at him as he pulled away. “Already there, koibito… Sesshomaru-sama needs us, so try to stay calm for the sake of our truce.”

 

“I was supposed to ask you about his `strategy'; guess it'll have to wait.” He raised his voice as he strode across the room to the open door. “Drop that quiver outside in the garden so it doesn't stink the place up, Git… c'mon, Kohire. Let the games begin.”

 

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