238A Tale of Souls Swords
~I do not own Inuyasha. This story is purely fan made.
AN: Thank you everyone for the reviews!
Original Characters:
Saisei- Guardian of Fire/ Trial of Courage (Phoenix)
Misuto- Guardian of Water/ Trial of Patience (Sea Serpent)
Nisshoku- Guardian of Shadows/ Trial of Loyalty (Wolf)
Yuki- Guardian of Ice/ Trial of Humility (Snow Leopard)
Hikari- Guardian of Light/ Trial of Justice (Dragon)
Inari- Guardian of Life/ Trial of Selflessness (Fox)
Kazenosasayaki- Guardian of Wind/ Trial of Truth (Eagle)
Byggvir (Pronunciation: Big-veer)- Prince of Scandinavia/ General of Europe (Lightning Dragon)
Lord Ragnvaldr (Pronunciation: Rag-val-dur)- Lord of Scandinavia/ Europe (Lightning Dragon)
Lord Durai- Lord of India/ Middle East (Bengal Tiger)
Lord Nazar- Lord of Russia (Wolf)
Lord Omari- Lord of Africa (Lion)
Lord Acahuana- Lord of South America (Snake)
Lord Wanageeska- Lord of North America (Fox)
Lord Neptis- Lord of the 7 Seas (Water Elemental)
Lord Ryuunosuke- Japanese Lord of the North (Dragon)
Lord Shin- Japanese Lord of the East (Bear)
Lord Daichi- Japanese Lord of the South (Tiger)
Lord Jin- Chinese Ambassador (Panda)
General Slavik- General of Russia (Wolf)
General Thiago- General of South America (Jaguar/ Shadow)
General Kimoni- General of Africa (Rhino)
General Zarok- General of the 7 Seas (Octopus)
General Raj- General of Middle East (Tiger)
General Kajika- General of North America (Fox)
Umeko- Mate of General Slavik/ Kagome's handmaiden/ Member of the Western Court
Recap of Chapter 17: Umeko and Inukimi have a heated discussion. After butting heads, Kagome and Sesshoumaru finally figure out what is wrong with Rin... And to make matters worse, there is now a snake in the garden who has already claimed her first victim.
Chapter 18: A Soul to Untether
End of Last Chapter
Glancing down the hall, she saw Rin turn the corner and continue like they weren't even there. A minute later, they could hear Jaken yelling and the loud 'Twap' of his webbed feet. That was when it dawned on Kagome. The memory was repeating. Rin's fogged memory wasn't due to a spell but it was from her own subconscious defense mechanism. Rin didn't want to remember... And Kagome couldn't blame her. She needed to end this quickly.
"It's time for us to leave." She watched as Sesshoumaru gave a nod of understanding before looking at Rin. Kneeling down, Kagome whispered to her.
"Hang in there Rin... It is almost over." A loud sniffle was her only answer. Reaching out with her reiki, Kagome latched onto Sesshomaru's jyaki before pulling them opening her eyes, Kagome got up and got to work. She had a lot to do in a short amount of time.Kagome stood up and looked across the room at Yuki. "Where is the mirror?"
Yuki, having stayed silent during the whole ordeal, just shrugged as she closely observed the two in front of her. "Nisshoku knows of it's location, he may have already placed it in our new residence."
Kagome gave a quick nod of thanks as she placed her hand over her amulet and mentally called out to the shadow wolf. Within seconds a bright flash of purple appeared as Nisshoku released himself.
"Nisshoku, I need you to go and get the mirror... bring it here without being seen please." Working while speaking, Kagome turned back to Rin and uncovered her. Once she realized she was dressed in a sleeping kimono, she walked past Sesshomaru and headed to his closet.
Nisshoku glanced around, taking note of the Inu lord's presence before raising an eyebrow to Kagome. "Kagome, are you sure about this?"
Kagome paused in rifling through Sesshomaru's closet for just a moment to look over at the wolf. Seeing him glancing between herself and Sesshomaru, she began to understand his train of thought. Taking a small breath, Kagome grabbed one of Sesshomaru's kimono before walking towards the Lord. He seemed lost in thought as he focused on her amulet... More than likely curious about it now that he seen Nisshoku come out of it.
Stopping 2 feet in front of him, Kagome softly whispered her question. "Am I cleared?"
Sesshomaru snapped out of his thoughts as the Miko's question filtered through. "Cleared?"
Kagome sighed. "Have you been given enough evidence to clear me? ...Or do you still believe that I can't be trusted?" Kagome nodded towards Rin, making him glance at her too. "In order for me to help her, trust needs to be established. I need to know that I can trust you too... Where we are about to go has to remain a secret until the time is right. Can I trust you Lord Sesshomaru?"
Sesshomaru gave Kagome a side glance as he thought over what she said. Rin's memory proved that Kikyo was an enemy... but not necessarily that Kagome was trustworthy. But for Rin, he realized that he will have to take that chance. The Miko has made more progress than anyone has before. Glancing around the room, pausing to look at the other two people in it, he finally made his decision. "One should never trust too easily Miko... However, under these circumstances, this Sesshomaru will give mutual trust."
Kagome looked over at Nisshoku and gave him a nod, in which he returned, before everyone watched as he disappeared in the shadows. Once gone, Kagome turned her focus back on Rin.
Watching the miko silently, Sesshomaru closely observed her as she laid out one of his kimonos on the bed before opening the fabric up. As she turned back to Rin in order to lift her, he noticed how her bare hands flinched away from Rin's body before the Miko grabbed her gloves to put them on... Which he found very odd. "Miko, this Sesshomaru has questions that need to be answered... Since mutual trust has now been called for."
Kagome hesitated slightly before giving him a nod. "If I am able, I will answer." While waiting for his first question, she turned back to pick up Rin and placed her in the middle of the white kimono before starting to wrap her up.
Sesshomaru shot a quick glare at Yuki before glancing back to Kagome's amulet. "Who are they and what purpose does your amulet serve?"
Not the least bit surprised about his first question, Kagome didn't even bother to look at him as she continued to dress Rin. "They are my Guardians and the amulet is connected to them... Unfortunately I have to be a bit vague about that, I do apologize."
Once Rin was finally dressed, she gave Sesshomaru her full attention. "Myself and the Lords of the World Council are the only ones who are allowed that information. So I can not give you full details until you claim your seat."
At this, Sesshomaru raised his eyebrow even higher. "My seat? ... Has your council already chosen me for the position?" A small smirk began to cross his lips. "And if so, what makes you think this Sesshomaru would even accept?"
It was Kagome's turn to scoff before a smirk of her own matched his. "The council does not decide who takes the final seat... That will be determined by 'Rites of the Old Way' as is the tradition of your kind."
Kagome's smirk grew even wider. "And you will accept it because we all know that 'The Great Lord Sesshomaru' would never take orders from those he deems lower than himself."
"Hn." She was right, of course. "And what does a Miko know of our 'Rites' and traditions?" He tilted his head slightly, he couldn't help but be curious.
Kagome gave a nonchalant shrug. "Enough to understand all it's implications... I have been surrounded by youkai for the last 75 years Sesshomaru." She gave a small chuckle. "I've even had to participate in your kinds 'Rites' and traditions."
This only further intrigued Sesshomaru. He had never heard of a human being subjected to the 'Rites of the Old Way' law before.
Before the questions could continue however, Nisshoku materialized from the shadows, bringing the mirror Kagome had requested. Everyone watched as he placed the big mirror in front of himself before looking at Kagome. "I will keep watch over it until you return."
"Thank you Nisshoku." Kagome turned to look over at Sesshomaru before she spoke. "I will be right back, wait here."
Intrigued, Sesshomaru watched as Kagome turned towards the mirror and placed her hand on the glass. The second she did, it glowed a bright blue before she walked through it. Well, that explained how she got into his throne room.
Keeping her word, he watched as she reappeared a couple minutes later with a large and long rectangle object that was covered in a red cloth. They all followed her movements as she leaned it against the wall before pulling the cloth off, revealing another mirror.
Turning towards Sesshomaru, Kagome motioned towards Rin. "I will need you to please carry her Sesshomaru. It is time to bring Rin back to the waking world."
Sesshomaru gave a small nod before getting up to lift his adopted daughter and without a word walked towards the Miko. He was far too curious to make any protests. As soon as he stood next to Kagome, he felt her put a barrier around them.
"It will only recognize my energy, so please stick close and don't hesitate or you will be left behind." Kagome answered his unspoken question as she waited for his nod of understanding. Once she was sure they were ready, the three of them proceeded forward through the mirror.
Once on the other side Sesshomaru quickly scanned the new room they entered. He noticed the large work desk surrounded by shelves of books and a lavish red rug that covered the marble flooring in front of him. To his right was a large open balcony and to his left was a large table, which he saw Kagome walk towards. Beyond the table, he could glimpse into another room that looked to be an indoor greenhouse of some kind. At least that's was what he figured since it was filled with plants and smelled of heavy mixtures.
Kagome quickly cleared her table before covering it with a fresh cloth and placed some small decorative pillows on top of it for Rin's comfort. "Please lay her on the table as I get everything prepared."
Sesshomaru did as she asked while watching her walk into her apothecary. Once he made sure Rin was comfortable, he began to look around.
Slowly following the Miko, he briefly watched her from the door way as she walked around grabbing different herbs. Another small table was placed in the middle of the room for her to work on. In the middle of it was a mortar and pestle and a large tome that had writing in it that he didn't recognize. There were herbs lined up and covering 2 of the glass walls, while on the left side of the room were brick walls with a fireplace and a shelf full of candles, crystals and quartz.
Glancing up, he took notice of the glass ceiling and realized it was still midday. Taking a couple steps further in, he looked out the nearest glass 'wall' and saw how high up he was from the ground... He was in a tower of some sort. He could see a palace outside and beyond that was a vast blue ocean. "Miko, where did you take this one?"
Kagome gave a small smile as she glanced up from her work to watch the curious inu. "Home... This is Kibo No Machi. The safe haven for your kind to live and thrive in."
"Hn... Where is this 'Kibo No Machi' located? ...It is rather warm for this time of year."
"On the mainland, far up North... It is warm due to my weather crystals. This area is protected by my barrier." Kagome explained as she began to skim through her spell Tome for the ingredients that she still needed for her salve.
Sesshomaru gave an absentminded nod as he continued to be nosey. "You said this was a safe haven for yokai... Where are they?"
Kagome paused for a moment before nodding to the other room. "Step out onto the balcony and you will see."
Sesshomaru turned and walked out the door to do just that, leaving Kagome to her work. Once he stepped out into the sun he was surprised by the large settlement before him. Not far across the water was one of the largest yokai villages he has ever seen... It was at the very least 5 times bigger than the village that surrounded his shiro.
The sounds of low screeching caught his attention as he looked down over the courtyard located in front of the temple. He silently watched 3 human pups, no older than his Rin, attempt to train 3 young dragons. The dragons themselves looked to be maybe 2-3 years old, so they weren't hatchlings but still twice the size of a hut. Sesshomaru watched with amusement... The dragons were low level ones, so they weren't powerful enough to take a humanoid form but still strong enough to cause some serious damage. He remembered all too well the damage Ah-Un had done when he was a hatchling. He couldn't help but wonder what they were trying to accomplish.
Looking back over the water, towards the village, Sesshomaru's curiosity peaked... He wanted to check it out, but he didn't trust to leave Rin alone. Looking back inside, he observed the miko. She was currently working on undressing his Rin. "Miko, what are you doing?"
Kagome paused from untying the kimono Rin was wrapped in and looked over at the Inu Lord. "A ritual to unbind the spell she is under... You may want to wait on the balcony for now." Kagome unleashed a small flux of her power to summon some help before focusing back on Rin. It was only a few minutes later before there was a faint knock on the door. "Come in, Lady Mother."
Sesshomaru watched as a woman with long snow white hair walked in and made her way over to the miko.
"Lord Sesshomaru, this is Lady Astrid, Lord Ragnvaldr's mother." Kagome began as she introduced the two. "Lady Mother, this is Lord Sesshomaru. He is a candidate for the Lotus Throne."
Sesshomaru gave a slight nod to the dragoness out of respect. " A pleasure, Lady Astrid." He assumed she would understand him since the miko introduced them in their native tongue. Kagome gave a small scoff in irration, of course he is all polite and courteous... God forbid he showed her even 10% of that respect though.
Lady Astrid ignored Kagome's little temper tantrum before using her jyaki to reach out to inspect his with playful curiosity. Sesshomaru tensed slightly but quickly relaxed with the realization that due to her pure white eye, she more than likely couldn't see.
"Hmmm ... Yes, he will be an excellent addition. A Blóðhundur in all his glory." Lady Astrid almost purred.
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow. Her Japanese was almost perfect ... Except for her weird need to roll her R's. Oddly, it had a very seductive feel to it.
Kagome gave a soft snort as she scanned Sesshomaru from head to toe and smirked slightly. "A blóðhundur, indeed." She couldn't help agree, knowing full well that Lady mother did not mean it as in the breed but more as reference to Sesshomaru's blood lustful nature.
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes at the two females before him. He had no idea what a blóðhundur was, therefore he wasn't sure if it was an insult... But it could have been a compliment. "Hn." Just to be safe.
"Yes, very prideful and strong." Astrid nodded in approval. " This one does believe that our High Priestess may have to tread carefully now..." Lady Astrid paused with a smirk as she playfully looked Kagome over, from head to toe... Bringing Kagome's attention to the fact that she wasn't even fully dressed. " Sköll will eventually catch his Sól and devour her... The chase was fated after all."
It took Kagome a minute to catch on to what Astrid was hinting at before she scowled at the ornery overgrown lizard... But she wasn't sure if Astrid was just teasing or if she was trying to tell her something that she had seen. With a quick shake of her head, Kagome banished the thought... She had a different fate, and she wasn't about to allow herself to fall to delusional thinking... Her and Sesshomaru? He would sooner gut her than to allow that to happen. "Lady Mother, if you would be so kind as to set up a dressing screen please, Rin is going to need some privacy for the ritual."
Lady Astrid smirked as she did as asked, deciding to allow Kagome to play dumb for the time being. Once the screen had been set up, Astrid helped Kagome undress Rin before Kagome grabbed the salve she had made. Both woman began to carefully spread the salve on Rin's chest. Once all the salve was gone, Kagome grabbed a medium sized crystal to place on Rin's chest. She set the bright pulsing crystal just above Rin's left breast, where her heart laid, then placed a ordinary clear quartz above her right breast.
Kagome quickly wiped her hands free of the salve before grabbing a small dagger to slice her own palm open and held it over a cup to let her blood slightly fill it. Once she had enough, she healed her palm and grabbed a writing brush. Dipping the tip, she began writing a spell in-between where she set the crystal and quartz. When done, she finished the ritual by sprinkling purified salt around Rin's chest. A bright pulsing glow filled the room for a brief moment, then die down ... indicating that the spell was successful and complete. Now all they had to do was wait.
Kagome took a step back before grabbing a bowl of cool water and a rag. Dipping it, she quickly rung it out and set it on Rin's forehead. She also grabbed a silky sheet and covered Rin's lower half so that way when she awoke she wouldn't be completely naked. When done, Kagome glance up and noticed Sesshomaru leaning against the wall on the far side watching everything she was doing. He was far enough to the side that it gave Rin her privacy but still kept Kagome in clear view. She was wondering why he was so quiet. "It is done, now we just have to give it time to weaken Kikyo's magic."
"How long?" Sesshomaru tried to relax his posture before looking back out to the balcony.
"Not sure, it depends on how strong Kikyo's magic is. Hopefully, the spell will be weakened enough by nightfall." Kagome said as she approached him but paused when she heard Astrid speak.
"Volva, since you are here, you should talk with the shipyard masters. They have been trying to get in touch with you." Astrid informed as she pulled up a chair to sit next to Rin. " Do not worry for the little one, this one will watch over her as you take care of some business." Astrid then flashed them a small smirk. "Do take the blóðhundur with you... He is awfully curious."
Sesshomaru scowled but held his tongue ... She wasn't wrong but he didn't trust this place enough to leave Rin unprotected. As if Kagome could read his thoughts, she chimed in. "She will be safe, this is the safest place there is. No one will hurt her here... Nor can anyone get past my spells unless I allow it."
Sesshomaru still hesitated.
"Mutual trust has been called for remember." Kagome softly reminded him.
"Hn." With that he gave a small nod in agreement.
Kagome gave a small smile. "Wait here a moment so I may dress appropriately, then we will leave." With that said, Kagome walked out of the room. It only took her less then 10 minutes before she came back dressed in a deep black kimono that was decorated with bright red, orange, and golden dragons. "Are you ready?"
Sesshomaru gave a small nod in response and Kagome smirked as she quickly laid her gloved hand on his shoulder. Sesshomaru tensed, but before he could scold the miko, they were engulf in flames as they teleported out of the room.
When the flames died down, Sesshomaru took a moment to observe his surroundings, his tongue lashing practically forgotten. Taking notice that they were in an alley way, he silently watched as the miko stepped ahead of him to slowly walk towards the busy street. Slowly he began to follow her as she made a quick left.
Looking around, they appeared to be in the middle of the market place. Stalls were aligned on both sides of the street, selling all sorts of goods. Yokai of all sorts busily shuffling around. He observed as all of them seemed to be dressed in all different styles of clothing, speaking to each other in different tongues. It was ... Chaotic, but surprisingly a relief to see and hear. They all looked happy... Healthy. While at home, they had a bit over 50,000 yokai living there but it was all weary, everyone had started to lose hope and except their fate.
Sesshomaru paused as a group of young pups rambunctiously ran past him... Another sight he hadn't seen in so long. It had been about 50 years since the last pup had been born back in the west... And sadly that pup had died to the curse soon after.
His eyebrows furrowed slightly as he zeroed in on the miko, observing her. He watched as she smiled and greeted those around her, speaking to them in their own tongue, which slightly surprised him. He paused as a soldier stopped next to her, lifted his fist to place it over the left side of his chest then bowed deeply to her... She was greatly respected here. He initially thought that the soldiers were part of the overlord's army... But they treated her as if her station was equal to that of the other Daiyokai.
After giving them a nod and softly spoken instructions, she slowly continued forward. He didn't understand, as far back as he could remember her, she had always been weak ... A push over, always following after Inuyasha like a lost puppy, a love sick fool. But now... Now she was so much stronger, commanded so much respect. His thoughts drifted back to the other night, when she displayed her power. Where did it all come from? He knew that back when they were hunting Naraku that she hadn't been trained what so ever... Therefore if she had that much power he would have been able to feel it, she wouldn't have been able to control or hide it. She could have easily taken care of Naraku single handedly. The thought troubled him, he needed to keep a close eye on her from now on.
"So... What do you think?"
Sesshomaru snapped out of his thoughts as he realized the miko was now walking beside him. "Hn..." Glancing around, his gaze swept over the crowded street. "They all seem content."
Kagome gave a soft scoff which caused Sesshomaru to raise an eyebrow. "Most are but that doesn't mean all of them are happy with how things are being done... As I'm sure you know all too well, it's impossible to please everyone."
Sesshomaru gave a firm nod in agreement as he glanced down at her. "This one would assume they would be greatful for all your help." He stated as he watched her body language very closely.
Kagome gave a nonchalant shrug. "They all were... But that doesn't mean they want to take orders from a priestess. Most are still weary, and old habits die hard." Kagome paused as a young one approached her and gave her a flower before scampering off, making her smile. "What they don't realize is that my role isn't to rule over them... The Daiyokai overlords do."
Sesshomaru scrutinized her even further, curiously. "...Explain?"
Kagome rolled her eyes at his command. "My role is to keep peace between the overlords, to make sure everything is done fairly but most importantly, that they rule with honor and take proper care of their subjects."
"Is that still not ruling over them? If you command the overlords, you therefore command their subjects." Sesshomaru scoffed as he tried to fully understand her line of thinking.
"No, I do not dictate how they rule over their subjects... That is left up to them. I only step in if one is being a tyrant or if they are on the verge of war... It also goes both ways, if the High Priestess ever abuses her authority then the Lords also have the power to make her step down from her position, which will allow them to vote for a new one. All lords must agree to remove her though, and all must agree on the new High Priestess as well." Kagome calmly explained.
"If all have to agree, the High Priestess would only need one lord on her side to keep her position... If they make a deal or become lovers, it would be impossible to over throw her." Sesshomaru further pushed on the subject.
Kagome side eyed him and raised an eyebrow... Wondering what he was thinking, or possibly even planning. "The High Priestess is forbidden to have a romantic relationship with any of the overlords. She would automatically lose her position if anyone came forward with evidence that proved such... There would be consequences for the overlord as well."
"Hn." Sesshomaru tucked that information away for a later time and decided to switch the subject. "At the temple, there were human pups trying to train dragons... This one is surprised you would allow them near so many yokai."
"The children of light..." Kagome gave a nod in understanding. "They are my pupils...12 in total, all orphans and all born with reiki. I am currently training them. They will help keep the barrier strong, and keep the peace. That is all I can say about them at this time."
Sesshomaru gave off a small growl of annoyance. She was hinting that there was more to it but is refusing to say anymore about it. "Miko, we both know it will be this one who will take the seat, so why further hide all the information?"
To be fair, Kagome hadn't told anyone the childrens true purpose but of course he didn't know that. "Yes, you will be, but this information still can not be given until after you earn the seat by the 'Rites of the Old Way'... Plus, all the overlords must be present as well."
Sesshomaru paused in thought as something else just occurred to him. "Once this one takes his seat, what will happen to the other 3 Daiyokai?"
Kagome shrugged. "Whatever you wish to do with them, they will be under your rule ... You could keep them as advisers, you could still keep them as minor lords to help you manage your territory... Which will be a lot more than just Nippon, you will rule over several more countries. Or you could strip them of all their territories and titles. Ultimately, it is up to you on how you run things." Kagome tilted her head slightly as she gave further thought. "Although, at this time, with everything that is going on... I would advise to keep them as close Generals... With war so close upon us, I wouldn't ruffle too many feathers." Kagome smirked.
"Hn."
By this time, the two had finally reached the shipyard and it only took Kagome a few moments to find the yokai she was looking for. "Raúl..."
A big burly bull yokai swiftly turned to look over his shoulder. Giving Kagome a proud nod in greeting. "High Priestess, good afternoon. I see you have finally made it down here."
Kagome flashed him a charming smile. "Raúl... This is Lord Sesshomaru, he is a candidate for the Lotus Throne. Lord Sesshomaru, this is Raúl, He is my main Shipyard Master."
Both Yokai nodded in greeting. "Welcome, my Lord." Raúl turned to look down at Kagome. "Lady Kagome, The Shikon Legacy, The Femme Fatale, and The Blue Moon Mistress are ready for your approval." Raúl puffed his chest proudly. Proud of accomplishing the daunting task his High Priestess had given him.
A huge grin spread across Kagome's face as excitement coursed through her. Without a word or a backward glance, Kagome took off and raced down to the docks. Sesshomaru gave Raúl a confused look before quickly following after her. It took him a few minutes to find her and when he did she was boarding a ship that he had never seen before.
Once he boarded, he slowly made his way towards her. He had never seen anything like it, it was bigger than any of the Atakebune ships that he had ever seen. The style of it completely foreign to him. Where as the Atakebune only had 1 sail and was mostly oar powered, essentially a floating fortress. This ship had 4 masts with 16 sails and was about 190 feet long... The Atakebune around 120 feet.
"She's perfect Raúl." Kagome whispered in awe.
"I had to make a few adjustments, but we got her built with little to no trouble." Raúl beamed as he joined the two.
Kagome slowly began to walk along the deck, heading towards the captain's cabin. "Have you sailed her yet?"
Raúl nodded. "Yes, she sails beautifully. Her top speed is 8 knots. She has 5 deck levels, and is armed with 40 cannons. She isn't as fast as The Wanton Rogue, The Shadowdancer, or The Blood Moon Tide but for her size, it is still impressive..." Raúl gave a small chuckle. "And that is without the help of the water nymphs."
Kagome beamed with happiness. "You did wonderfully Raúl, thank you."
Sesshomaru tilted his head in confusion. "Wanton Rogue... Shadowdancer... Ship names I assume?"
Raúl nodded. "Yes, The Wanton Rogue, The Blood Moon Tide, and The Shadowdancer are the names of our 3 Frigates... Which are our 3 fastest warships." Raúl pointed them out so Sesshomaru could look them over. "The Blue Moon Mistress, The Femme Fatale, and The Shikon Legacy, which is the one we are currently standing on, are Galleons. Bigger and slower than the Frigate but she makes that up with power." Raúl walked up to a cannon and gave it a loving pat. "She can carry up to 40 of these big cannons."
Sesshomaru gave a small nod of understanding. Naval warfare never really mattered too much to him, considering he could use his jyaki to fly around but he could see how it would be useful to have... Especially to guard one's trading goods. Looking more around the bay, a very different and much larger ship caught his attention. "What of those 3? They are almost twice the size of the Galleons."
Raúl looked over to where Sesshomaru had nodded towards and smiled... Those were his and Xiao's pride and joy. "Those 3 are the Chinese Treasure Ships. Xiao and I found them off the coast of China about 15 years ago. We repaired them and renamed them, then brought them to the High Priestess."
"The Moonlight Maiden, The Eternal Empress, and The Enchantress." Kagome smirked. "Those 3 ladies are luxury ships and we use them more for carrying passengers and supplies instead of warfare... I requested the Frigates and Galleons to be built to protect the Treasure ships."
Sesshomaru was impressed with the size of them. They had 9 masts, 12 sails, and was about 280 feet long.
Raúl rubbed his hands together with excitement as he looked down at Kagome and smirked. "I have another surprise for you High Priestess."
Kagome tilted her head up to look at Raúl with a questioning look. "Oh?"
Raúl gave her a small nudge, guiding her off the ship and towards the dock. "Do you remember when you commissioned that crazy idea that resulted in me building The Lunar Phantom, The Astral Arrow and The Nebula Nymph?"
Kagome gave a small nod before she caught on to what he was hinting at. "You built more?"
Raúl's smirk widened as he nodded towards the Galleons.
"You didn't?!" Kagome squealed as Raúl nodded his head, confirming that he very much did. Kagome completely ignored Sesshomaru's death glare as he rubbed his ringing ear and took off as fast as her legs could carry her, racing further down the docks.
Raúl laughed as he and Sesshomaru quickly followed behind her. They soon found her standing on the deck of another Galleon ship, except this one was slightly different from the other 3 they just saw.
Sesshomaru noticed that this Galleon had 4 extra masts with its sails still bound and extra sails in the front of the ship as well in the back... The ship was also noticably wider and longer as well. Slowly boarding, Sesshomaru scoffed at Kagome as she did an excited happy dance that made her look completely ridiculous. He didn't understand what made this ship so special that she deemed it appropriate to make a fool of herself.
"High Priestess, welcome aboard The Dreaming Gypsy." Raúl beamed with pride.
Kagome couldn't help herself as she bounced around. "Have you tested her yet?!"
Raúl shook his head. "We were going to test her out today... Would you like to join us?" He already knew what her answer was going to be as he signaled for the wind nymphs to prepare for departure.
Kagome squealed with happiness again. "Yesyesyes ..." She couldn't believe it. The original idea was batshit crazy but Raúl actually made it happen! She watched as 15 elementals rushed around her.
Sesshomaru shook his head and glared down at the miko. "Miko you act like you never been sailing before, stop making a fool of yourself."
Kagome completely ignored his insult and grinned as she raced towards the prow of the ship. "You don't understand... But you will soon."
It only took a few more minutes before the ship began to slowly move forward. The wind elementals helped the ship along by conjuring strong wind so that The Dreaming Gypsy could pick up some speed.
Sesshomaru watched as they sailed away from the port with boredom.
"Hold on to something my Lord." Raúl hollered back at him with a big smile.
Before Sesshomaru could do anything but scoff, he quickly felt the ship tilt back. His reflexes kicked in immediately as he grabbed onto the railing next to him as looked over it, finally noticing for the first time that the ship was lifting out of the water instead of sailing through it. The wind spirits began to conjure clouds under the ship to help lift it... And once The Dreaming Gypsy was completely out of the water, 4 elementals rushed to the 4 extra masts and began to unlatch and lower them down to the side so that they stuck out to the side of the ship, then released the sails.
Sesshomaru watched as they flew up further and further... The waves of the ocean getting smaller by the minute. He had seen a great many things over the centuries... Fly carriages, floating castles, but never flying ships. Which he supposed it would happen eventually but he couldn't help but be slightly concerned. Looking down at his side, he gazed at the cannon next to him and thought about the Moon Palace back in the west. Something like this could easily destroy his mother's floating palace.
He wasn't worried about the miko using it against him per say, especially if he joins the World Council but if his enemies see something like this, they would definitely start working on building their own. Once the ship leveled out, Sesshomaru made his way towards Raúl and the miko. "How many of these floating ships do you have?"
Raúl smirked at the lord. "We got 3 Frigates which are The Astral Arrow, The Lunar Phantom and The Nebula Nymph... And the 3 Galleons we just finished; The Dreaming Gypsy, The World's Edge, and The Nightwalker's Tale... And hopefully we will be adding one more airship to the list."
Kagome raised her eyebrow. "You're building even more?"
Raúl gave a nod. "One more... Unless you would like to commission more, of course." Raúl chuckled before he finished. "Xiao is currently finishing the last ship as we speak. He has been inspired to build a flying Treasure ship as well... He has already named her The Celestial Dawn. She is being difficult though due to her size, which is why it is taking so long."
Sesshomaru gave Raúl a contemplating nod. "Perhaps at a later date we should sit down and have a meeting." He needed to get a head start on this before any others do. He knew without a doubt that Shin is not going to just settle with losing his title and power over his land... Daichi will not be pleased either. Ryuunosuke could be bargained with, the old dragon has been getting tired in his old age and since his heir died 30 years ago he may be willing to step down. Overall he would rather be safe than sorry.
Raúl gave him a big grin. "At your leisure, my Lord. Just let me know when and what type of ships you want built." That would now make 4 Lords that were interested in doing business with him and he was pleased... Xiao was going to be so excited.
"This is just perfect Raúl, thank you. You did it just in time as well. This will help with moving the army and supplies back to Nippon... As well as transporting our guests back to Kibo No Machi." Kagome expressed with gratitude as plans began to formulate.
Raúl gave a pleased rumble. "You are more than welcome Lady Kagome."
Sesshomaru gave a nod to Raúl before focusing back on Kagome. "What guests do you mean Miko?"
"All the women and their young that reside in the West... It would be too dangerous to keep them there while preparing for war. Once I heal them, we need to immediately move them here." Kagome crossed her arms and leaned back against the rails, she hoped he wouldn't fight her on this. "Which also means, when we get back, I need a family count from you for all your subjects so that way I can let my master builders know and they can get started on building new homes for them."
Sesshomaru gave a slow nod... He agreed that they should be moved for their own safety but he knew that his subjects weren't going to be happy about it, his soldiers in particular. "This one agrees, there will be many displeased with being apart from their mates and pack."
Kagome gave a grim nod of understanding as well. "It is for the best though..." Kagome tilted her head slightly in contemplation as a thought struck her. "Speaking of mates... Have you mated yet?"
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow at her... Not understanding how any of that was her business. "Not that it should be any concern of yours, Miko, but no this one has yet to take a mate."
Kagome rolled her eyes ... Not that he could see it though. "You need someone here to look after your subjects. Usually one's mate should do so but since you don't have one..."
Sesshomaru slightly scowled but then sighed. "This one's mother will see to it."
Kagome gave a small nod in understanding before looking out into the vast blue sky, admiring it's beauty. "Very well, that should work out just fine."
It was close to dark by the time the airship had docked in front of the island of palaces. Kagome had thanked Raúl once again before her and Sesshomaru left to head back into the temple. Silence reigned as both were lost in thought.
There was so much that still had to be done and Kagome was feeling the need to rush. She needed to get them all healed first and foremost... Then they could worry about moving forward with the 'Rites of the Old Ways' so they could finally welcome their last Daiyokai... All of which needed to be done before they could move the Nippon yokai to Kibo No Machi, as well as get her army to Nippon. Which she could give the order for that before she left tonight... At least the order for her Holy Shields, she will need to speak to her Generals as soon as she gets back.
Then she needed to start worrying about how to get her hands on the final book. All of that had to be accomplished before she could move forward in finding Kikyo's location... She also needed to figure out what to do about monks and mikos that were stirring up trouble. Ashanti was still on the loose as well, which Kagome had no doubt that she was lurking somewhere close since Kikyo disappeared. Kagome sighed tiredly... 'So much to do.'
It wasn't long before the two finally reached her study and Kagome lead them inside. She immediately walked over to check on Rin. "How is she?"
Lady Astrid stood from her seat and walked over to stand next to Kagome. "The young one is getting better, her holy strength is much stronger."
Sesshomaru stood back observing, deciding to keep quite for the moment.
Kagome gently brushed Rin's hair to the side as she checked her over. She immediately noticed that the once clear quart had absorbed Kikyo's dark energy, turning it an ominous black. Using her reiki, she scanned Rin's still form, and Lady Astrid was right ... Rin's bright orange aura had gotten bigger and Kikyo's was now a thin layer that kept Rin's trapped. The thin thread that connected them was all but barely there. It was almost time, but first, before she freed Rin, her and Sesshomaru needed to have an important discussion. "Lady Astrid, would you kindly inform one of the maids to bring Lord Sesshomaru and I some tea?"
Lady Astrid gave a nod of understanding before she excused herself. Turning around, Kagome faced Sesshomaru and swept her hand out to the the chair in front of her desk. "Lord Sesshomaru, if you would take a seat please, we have some things to talk about."
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow but nodded in agreement, to curious to decline. He watched as she walked around her desk and took a seat, he soon followed to take his. "Speak, Miko."
Kagome pursed her lips in thought for a few minutes, before she sighed. "Rin is going to be in a weakened state when she finally awakens... There is a strong chance that she will be traumatized from everything that has happened to her."
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes and glared at the miko. "Hn."
Kagome rolled her eyes. "I bring this up because I would like Rin to stay here for her recovery."
"Rin stays where this one does." Sesshomaru growled out fiercely.
Kagome gave a quick nod in understanding before she raised her hand in a halting motion. "I understand, but hear me out first please... I also want you to stay here as well, at least for 2 or 3 days."
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes further. "Miko-"
"Wait, hear me out." Kagome sighed again before explaining further. "I'm sure we both can agree that the west is unsafe... There is a high chance that their are spies still lurking about."
Before Sesshomaru could agree or disagree, a soft knocking interrupted their conversation.
"Come in." Kagome allowed when she felt the jyaki of one of her servants. A small neko yokai silently entered and made her way to Kagome's desk. Kagome gave the neko a greatful smile before taking the tray from the servant. "Thank you." The neko bowed before silently making her way out of the room.
Kagome swiftly poured both of their tea before handing one to Sesshomaru. "Sesshomaru, have you ever wondered why your jyaki was affected more than the others?"
Sesshomaru stiffened slightly, his brows furrowed to show he was giving her question some thought. He waited until Kagome took a drink of her tea before doing the same, then answered. "No..." He actually had discussed this with his mother but neither could figure out why... Perhaps the miko had.
"I believe that Akuma is targeting you specifically..." Kagome set her cup down before resting her elbows on her desk then interlaced her fingers together. "I believe it because of your strength. I don't think he is worried about you as an opponent, he is a god after all, but it got me thinking... What if it was because he wanted you on his side? As one of his Generals? He originally had 4 Generals when I had started my journey, of those 4 I have killed 3..." Kagome lightly bit her lower lip as she lost herself in thought. "Who better to add than the strongest youkai alive."
"Hn..." Sesshomaru gave her idea some serious thought. She could be right ... But she could be wrong as well. " What makes you think this?"
"What else could it be?" Kagome slowly shook her head as she thought harder. "You were on the brink of death Sesshomaru. You shouldn't have been as affected as you were... Your servants were stronger than you were, they should have been on the brink of death before you were. You are the strongest of your kind, therefore you would have been the last one standing."
Sesshomaru gave a slow nod of understanding... Her point made sense.
"This is why I want you and Rin to stay for awhile. I would like Rin to heal here as well as continue her training. She will be safest here, away from those that would harm her to get to you. If I'm right, Rin might have been targeted to use against you."
Sesshomaru clenched his fist at the thought. "I will not be kept from Rin."
Kagome gave a quick nod in agreement. "You won't be, you will be allowed to come visit her anytime you wish."
Sesshomaru gave a nod. "Very well." He finally agreed. "But this one will not stay here, there is too much that needs this one's attention."
"I understand, and you wouldn't be here long... I'm just asking you to stay for a couple days. I have a healing room here in the temple. I want both you and Rin to stay there and heal. It would also help Rin if you stayed by her side, she will be scared being in an unknown place."
"Miko-" Sesshomaru growled in annoyance when she cut him off again.
"Anything that needs your immediate attention I will personally bring to you... I need to focus on healing your people first before I can fully heal you. Staying in this room will help you get stronger quicker, which is what we all need. I will come get you for any meetings that need your attention as well." Kagome quickly added to try to sway him one last time.
Sesshomaru glared at her before finally giving in. "2 days, no more than that."
Kagome nodded, that was better than nothing, then she sighed with relief. "Very well, that's better than nothing." Taking one last sip from her tea, Kagome then stood from her chair. "Let us wake up Rin."
Kagome quickly walked into her greenhouse room and grabbed a small chest before walking up to Rin's side. Carefully she took both the blackened crystal and quartz before putting them in the chest. Closing the lid, she whispered an incantation to seal it. Next she sat down next to Rin. After she pulled the sheet up to cover Rin's chest, she then placed her hands on Rin's shoulders. Gently she called forth her reiki, using it to slowly purify the rest of Kikyo's aura. It only took a few minutes before she successfully got rid of all the dark energy... Leaving only Rin's bright aura behind. Kagome released her before sitting back to observe her.
Sesshomaru slowly walked up to the otherside of the table to look down at his adopted daughter. "Is it done?"
Kagome gave a small nod as she continued to watch.
"Then why is she still sleeping?" Sesshomaru glared over at the miko, slowly loosing his patience.
Kagome's brows furrowed. "I'm not sure, she should be waking up any moment now..." Perhaps Rin needed some encouragement to come back to the waking world.
Kagome took off one of her gloves and placed it on Rin's arm. Closing her eyes, Kagome felt the pull. It took her a few minutes to find Rin, and when she did, she noticed that Rin was still stuck in her memory loop.
Kagome carefully walked up to her huddled form. "Rin?"
Rin didn't answer her, she only continued to whimper.
Kagome knelt down and called for her again, this time louder. "RIN!"
The young woman jumped slightly and Kagome sighed with relief. "Come Rin, it's time to wake up." Kagome softly whispered.
"Wake up? Rin is not asleep..." Rin's fear came through as she reverted back to her old speech pattern.
"Yes you are Rin... Follow my voice. It's time to wake up." Kagome continued softly before standing. She watched as Rin slowly stood as well before reaching out to her with her reiki. When she fully surrounded Rin with it, she turned to walk back down the hall... Rin slowly followed her, unconsciously following Kagome's warm light.
When she reached what felt like the end of the hall, Kagome used her reiki to grab a hold of Rin's, then closed her eye. When she felt the familiar pull, she threw both herself and Rin into it.
Kagome's eyes snapped open as she quickly stood, leaning over Rin to see if she had succeeded to wake her. Time seemed to slow ... Before finally, Rin's eyes fluttered open.
It took Rin but a moment to look up at Kagome and when she did, she quickly tried to scrambled back but her body protested, it was too weak to move like she wanted it too. Her scent and aura screamed with fear though, which caused Sesshomaru to immediately react. He quickly sat next to Rin, forcing her look at him. It only took her a moment to recognize him, which caused tears to fall down her cheeks. She tried to speak, but nothing came out... Her throat too dry and tight from unuse. She couldn't get her hand to move either for the same reason.
Sesshomaru gently rested his hand on top of her head. "Miko, what is wrong with her? Why can she not move or speak?"
Kagome watched as Rin continued to struggle. "She will need time to heal first Sesshomaru... Her voice and body have not been used in a very long time." Kagome flexed her aura to call upon a servant as she walk to the door.
When a maid knocked, Kagome wasted no time in opening the door. "I need the healing room prepared for two people. Fresh bedding and a bath prepared. Also bring a pitcher of water, as well as food. Make sure there is plenty of raw meat and have broth prepared that will soothe and heal the throat." The maid nodded once Kagome was finished.
Kagome closed the door and turned to face Sesshomaru. "Sesshomaru, if you could carry Rin, I would like to take you both somewhere the two of you can rest."
Sesshomaru gave a small nod before gently picking up Rin... Once he made sure that the sheet was secured around her, he walked towards the miko.
Kagome gave a sharp nod then opened the door. They both walked down the hall before going down the spiral steps. The short walk was done in silence as the made their way down to the 3th floor. When they finally reached the floor they were looking for, Kagome opened the door and let Sesshomaru walk through first.
Kagome glanced down the hall and watch as several servants rushed about, carring out her orders. Slowly both her and Sesshomaru walked up to the room but patiently waited until the maids were done. As Kagome motioned for Sesshomaru to enter, she quickly caught sight of two of her children of light watching them from around the corner down the hall.
When they spotted her, they slowly began to walk towards her. Kagome ignored them briefly as she turned her attention to Sesshomaru and Rin. "I will send Lady Astrid to see you before I leave... I'll be back first thing in the morning to check on the two of you. Let Lady Astrid know if there is anything you need, she can get a hold of me if you need it."
Sesshomaru gave her a silent nod as he laid Rin down. "Miko, bring any paperwork this one may have when you come back in the morning."
Kagome bit her lip to keep from snapping at him... God forbid he be polite ask her to do it... Him and his orders! Letting out a sigh, she gave a nod of understanding before she silently closed the door... Which she did just in time to block Regan's and Edward's veiw from her guest.
"Holy mother, do we have guests?" Regan's soft and calm voice pulled Kagome's attention to her first.
"I've never seen them before..." Edward quickly added, overly curious. "Is the girl ok, she seemed injured."
Kagome gave a firm nod. "This room is off limits for the next week or so." She quickly steered the two way from the door, back towards the stairs. "Our guests need to rest and I don't want them disturbed. You all will meet them in due time, but for now, back to your studies."
Both teens groaned as they were lead down the hall.
Inukimi aura fluctuated with irration as she stormed down the hall of the western shiro. But as irritated as she was, she was even more worried. Her son was too weak and needed to be resting but something spiked his rage. Turning the corner, entering the hall that lead to the family wing, she was abruptly stopped by the voice of her long time friend.
"My lady? What has happened? I heard that we have guests... Is it true? Has a cure been found?" Lady Setsuko quickly walked up to lady Inukimi with her daughter, Hanami, right behind her. They had came back quicker than she expected.
"Yes my dear friend... We have found a miko that can cure us." Inukimi confirmed without hesitation.
Hanami gasped. "A miko? She is willing to help her enemy?"
Inukimi gave a grim nod. "An alliance was struck. She has agreed to help us. You will see plenty of new faces around the shiro but make sure to be on guard... Things are still being worked out at the moment." She turned to continue down the hall, knowing that both the females will follow.
"I'm sure your son didn't make this decision lightly." Lady Setsuko nodded confidently.
"My son wasn't the one who agreed. He had collapsed during the meeting."
Both females gasped in surprise, but it was Hanami that ask the next question. "Is my lord alright?"
Inukimi sighed. "That what this one is about to find out." With that said, Inukimi firmly pounded on her son's bedroom door... Impatiently waiting for it to open.
END OF CHAPTER 18
Translations
-Icelandic-
•Blóðhundur: (Pronounced: Blooth hundur)- Bloodhound
Mythology
•Sköll: (Pronounced: Skohl)- The white wolf believed to chase Sól across the sky in hopes to one day eat her. - Norse Mythology
•Sól: (pronounced: Sohwl )- The sun goddess. -Norse Mythology
-Thank you everyone for reading and I hope you all enjoyed the chapter! :D
Until next time!
-Peach