Forever and Always

Chapter 6: The Case for Action

Itachi left before sunrise to avoid his mother. He made his way to the academy slowly, knowing that his leader and teammates would not be there. It didn't matter to him. He needed some time alone.

When Itachi arrived, he took a seat on the floor beside the double doors leading into the Mission Assignment Room. The assignment room was currently occupied. This was made clear by a little red lightbulb next to the door. It was on, warning that a mission briefing was in progress.

Shinobi of all ranks came and went through the double doors while Itachi waited, none garnering any interest from him. In this way, time passed, and soon enough Itachi's teammates were all collected in front of the room.

Itachi ignored them, their chatter and their presence, too preoccupied with his own inner dilemmas. They left him alone, recognizing his need for space.

When the doors opened next, Itachi stood. He walked in at the back of their group, into a room of windows and wood. At the end of the room was a long desk where four secretarial shinobi sat. There should be five, but the Hokage was not in attendance.

The leader of the group, a Jonin-Major, shuffled through a box of files in search of their mission.

Their team waited in the center of the room, Fumihiro in front, hands entwined behind their backs and legs spread apart.

File found, the Major handed it to a young female Chunin-Lance Corporal. She walked confidently up to Fumihiro and handed it to him. Fumihiro took the file respectfully.

The Major pressed a button on the desk. The lights in the room turned off and light dampening shades in the windows descended in time with a projector screen. The Major then picked up a remote after everything was ready and pressed on.

On the screen, an image of a woman appeared. Long black hair framed a square face, sharp nose and thin eyes. Those eyes were red, not startlingly so next to her poignant red blouse, muddy in comparison. The Major turned back to them, placing the remote on the table.

"Your mission is to investigate and report…for now." The Major paused, gauging their reactions. "The woman's name is Mokin Abi, Chief Defense Councilor for the Tsukigen State Council. She is already under investigation by authorities of Fire for multiple cases of corruption – the usual for politicians." That earned a laugh from the Major's colleagues, Eichi and Utae. Fumihiro cracked a smile even. Itachi was the only one to remain stoic. The briefing continued. "None of these charges are of concern to us. They are ongoing and handled primarily by Tsukigen agents, but recently she has come under scrutiny for murder."

The screen changed to reveal a document on the Frost Massacre. "Frost officials found a partial fingerprint among the wreckage that indicates she was, if not present at the time of the massacre, then at Heaven's Gate at some point recently. It's not solid enough to prove guilt, but it's enough to peak their interest for a full investigation. However, Ms. Mokin is a resident of Fire and living in the civilian Capitol, Taisatsu. -

"Frost officials are limited in their jurisdiction – they can't cross borders. Because our Hokage promised to help, we have been called upon in this moment of need. Frost cannot enter Fire without creating a bureaucratic mess, but we can act on their behalf. -

"Your mission will require you to work alongside civilian Fire officials as undercover operatives for Frost. Your objective is to collect evidence to prove her guilt or innocence. If Ms. Mokin is found to be guilty, we have a standing order from the civilian Frost Government to capture and extradite her back to their Country, where she will be tried for her crimes against the Higure."

Throughout the Major's speech, Itachi's mood grew darker and darker. The connection to Frost beat through his melancholy to ignite a raging fire in the pit of his stomach. Determination and fury licked at the back of his neck, making him tense. If this woman, Mokin Abi, was the murderer of his Kagome's Clan he would kill her. His mission be damned.

"Parameters are as follows: you will not engage Ms. Mokin in anyway. You may watch from a distance, but never engage unless you are given the order from us to do so. Any evidence you find, you will collect, then immediately hand over to the civilian Fire officials who will process it and send it to Frost. If you find any evidence to substantiate the corruption claims you may also collect that. Officially, you will act under the standards and laws of the civilian Kingdom of Tsukigen. Though you are citizens of Konoha and subject to different laws under the Shinobi City-State Edicts, on this mission, you will act in a civilian capacity."

The Major looked over Fumihiro's unit with a wary eye. It was well known that the shinobi City-States and the civilian State did not get along. The shinobi had separated over 75 years prior after tensions grew too high between the vastly different peoples. Ever since, the shinobi States rarely interacted with the civilian world, unaware and uncaring of what happened beyond their walls. The fact that they were interacting now was momentous, but also nerve-wracking. This mission could not go wrong. Everyone in the room realized this.

"You leave today at thirteen hundred. Your passports and tickets are in your file along with civilian fiat. When you arrive in Taisatsu, you will be met by a liaison. Do well team," The Major saluted to them, followed by his colleagues. Fumihiro's unit saluted back. As a grouped they turned and walked to double doors at their back. Before they exited, the Major had one final salutation. "And don't fuck it up."

It was probably meant to be a joke, but none of Itachi's team members took it as such. Solemnly they nodded and left.

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It was after ten in the morning when the Higure clansmen received a call.

Kaede rushed to answer, turning on the small monitor and receiver. She kneeled in front as the call connected.

"This is Kaede speaking." She said, smiling at the small camera on top of the monitor.

On the other end, the static faded into a picture of a man. The receiver sent along a warm greeting. "Kaede, it's Muso. How are you?"

Kaede smiled wanely. Muso was the head of the Arashi family. He was a kind middle aged man with shoulder length shaggy brown hair that was held back from his clean-shaven face by a headband. "I am fine." She said.

Muso was quiet, understanding the pain behind Kaede's words. She really wasn't fine. "I am so sorry Kaede," He said sadly, "Your mother and sister, and the others…I will miss them. It won't be the same."

Kaede brushed a hand against her stuffy nose. "Thank you, but they did their duty, I understand this."

"Understanding does not mean acceptance."

Kaede was aware, but the death of her clansmen was not something she wanted to talk about. They all knew what they were doing, they all chose to be at Heaven's Gate to herald the birth of Her Ladyship. It was their duty to be there, to watch the miracle of her return, and to protect her. Kaede understood this, understood that their lives were in service to Her Ladyship, that they were who they were. She was proud of it, proud to be a Higure, proud to stand as a nurturer and protector for their Kingdom's greatest treasure. It didn't matter that she was angry at herself for not being there and the situation for getting out of control. She was beyond grief, denial, and bargaining. She had a duty, like her mother and sister, even if it meant her death, she would fulfill it. She would protect Her Ladyship no matter what. It was the fate of a Higure.

She switched topics. "Forgive the others for not greeting you, they are currently out."

Muso allowed the change of topic. "Out, you say?" She said, quirking a quizzical brown and ignoring the subtle dabs Kaede made against her eyes.

"Yes, the household still needs to be put together. Akitoki and Hachi have gone to procure furniture and convenience items in the market. Mushin is setting up the utilities."

"And you are taking care of Her Ladyship." Muso inserted. Kaede didn't need to answer. It wasn't a question. After a pause, Muso continued. "I can't believe we almost lost her, after all these years of waiting."

Loss was always devastating, no matter the circumstances. Kagome's loss would have been especially so.

Kagome was a Kirin, a divine creature of light and love. Kirin were rare beings, only seven in existence at any point in time. They brought peace to the world and to the hearts of men, shooing away darkness with the purity of their hearts.

"Yes," Kaede said. "To think that someone…" her words stalled, incomprehension and anger making it hard for Kaede to speak. "Who would want to kill her?" The thought alone, it was frightening.

Kirin were blessings. To want to kill one…it was unthinkable.

Muso grew grim. "Only a great evil would seek her death."

It was logical, evil sought to destroy good – that was the natural order of things, but whatever sought to do this, it was beyond evil in Kaede's mind. The creature, man or spirit, would need to be so lost in its own hatred that it was blind to anything but.

Kirin could temper and sooth even the harshest souls. To them, there was no distinction between different forms of life, whether they be considered good or bad. Life was life, it could all be redeemed through love. This habit of kindness often put them in the way of danger.

"It can only be so. Whatever or whoever did this, they are beyond saving." Kaede said.

Muso hummed agreeably. "It necessitates that we find her Protector soon. It is the only way to keep her safe."

Kirin needed a Protector. Their natures would not allow them to protect themselves, they were too kindhearted. If they were to live to maturity and beyond, someone needed to stand beside them as their shield and sword. These people, often youkai because of their innate strength, were a match to the Kirin, a soulmate but not quite.

The relationship between a Protector and Kirin was not meant to be romantic, rather a melding of opposing characteristics so that two halves could become whole. Where a Kirin could not cause harm, a Protector could. In this way, a Protector could do what the Kirin could not.

Kirin could not hurt anyone, they could not force themselves or their ideas upon anyone, and they always sacrificed themselves for the greater good. They were the epitome of good, kindness, healing love, self-sacrifice, and an image of what the people of the world could be but often weren't.

A Protector was needed to keep the Kirin from losing themselves in a world that needed to be healed of its corruption. Protectors were the front men, the implementers, the builders. They could take up the fight because they were strong of spirit and will, and could plow a path over barren soil and plant seeds for a better society. A Protector was an individual that others could look up to, who understood the need for kindness and love, practiced those behaviors, respected life of all kinds, and could also take on the burden of creating a better society.

They could wield the sword of revolution appropriately while still shielding the Kirin from the worse aspects of the war for good, because the Kirin were not able to handle those things. Kirin could not pick up a sword against anyone. They could not protect themselves. They could inspire but they could not implement. They were strong in their goodness, but in a world against that, they were weak.

A Protector could infuse themselves with power from the Kirin, of light and love, and forge forward into the world to do what was right.

"I agree," Kaede answered Muso. "It's integral that we find the Protector soon. Someone already knows that she's alive and that's dangerous. We can't lose her, not now."

One hundred years their clan had waited, praying at the base of the God Tree for their Kingdom's savior, for a blessing from the Gods. Ever since the death of the last Kirin and Protector, Tsukigen was in a deep state of darkness. The economy was gone, government officials were only out for themselves, war was a constant bed fellow, famine too, and the people were desperate.

They needed their Kirin who was the only being who could bring peace to the lands. They were blessings, proverbially and literally. The Gods grace and favor was in the form of a Kirin. So, if a Kingdom lost their Kirin, it was forsaken. It didn't matter how many people prayed for help, none would come from the Gods.

Only a Kirin could bring respite.

"No, we cannot." Muso was vehement, a sentiment Kaede shared. "Until we find the Protector, we must do everything in our power to keep her safe. No matter what must be done, no matter who is lost, she must survive. Tsukigen cannot last another 100 years without her."

Kaede bowed her head, cold resolve saturating every fiber of her body. Muso was right. They had a duty to their Kingdom and their people to bring light and love back to the world, to return it to glory once more. "I do not know how much you know," Kaede groused, looking up at Muso. "But there is a Chosen?"

A Chosen not The Chosen, it was an important distinction

There were categories of Chosen.

The Higurashi Kejoro used the word Chosen to refer to three categories of people: a Chosen, a Chosen Prospect, and the Chosen Protector.

A Chosen referred to an individual – human, half human, youkai – that was bonded to a Kirin to serve in the capacity of a retainer. Kirin had several Chosen, who they imprinted with, that helped the Kirin to grow and learn. A Chosen also stood as first lines of defense while a Kirin was still immature and without a Protector.

The Higurashi Kejoro were Chosen. They were a clan of honorable retainers and servants who had served since the beginning. They had been watching over the Kirin of Tsukigen for thousands of years. They believed that they were chosen by the Gods to serve in certain roles for the Kirin.

The main branch, the Higure, were caretakers. There were two parts to the Higure, the Mother and the Matriarchy. The Mother was the purest and most innocent of their family. She was held in the highest regard. She was born with the Mark of the Kirin, and thus believed chosen by the Gods to bare the Kirin into the world of the living. It was an honor to be the Mother, but also a huge sacrifice. For the Kirin to live, the Mother had to die.

After the Mother's sacrifice, the Kirin was called Matriarch. The rest of the clan, her caretakers, were thus called Matriarchy. One among them, the oldest and wisest of their clan, stepped into the role of Guardian to the Kirin. The rest of the clan acted as nursemaids and caretakers, watching over and parenting the Kirin until a time when the Kirin was considered mature enough to pick their Protector.

The secondary branch, the Arashi, were spiritual guards. They watched over the Kirin from malevolent spirits and built up the Kirin's confidence in their own powers, teaching them about the spirit and soul, how to see it, nurture it, love it, grow it, and rejoice in it. Their ranks were filled with powerful monks and priestesses, rarely related to each other but sharing in siblinghood.

The Kejo were teachers. It was their duty to give the current Kirin an understanding of the world and to teach them the history of their world and past lives. They were archivists, reclusive buggers, but incredibly dedicated to keeping the Annals accurate.

The Joro were physical guards. They fought for the Kirin, protecting them from the worlds evils as soldiers. They were brave beyond measure, capable of miraculous feats and true daring. They would put their life on the line to keep the Kirin safe, as well as her Protector and people when the time came.

Most of the clan was born into the life of a Chosen, but sometimes members were adopted in, like Mushin. Every once and awhile, the Kirin would pick a person to act in one capacity or another or even to form an entirely new branch, though it was rare.

Kaede was not sure, but she believed Itachi would serve in one of these compacities.

Muso did not seem surprised. "Miyatsu mentioned something about a young man with the mark. You think he is a Chosen."

Kaede nodded. "There is no doubt he is a Chosen. It is yet to be seen if he is a Prospect or the Protector."

The second category of Chosen was called Chosen Prospect, or Dai.

Sometimes a Chosen could be a Prospect, an individual who it was believed had the potential to be the Protector based on noteworthy actions. These individuals were often given the title of Dai by the Council to announce that they were Prospects. Thus far, Kaede knew of fifteen individuals with the title of Dai.

It was common for Inu to hold the title of Dai. In fact, of the fifteen individuals currently holding the title of Dai, Kaede knew of nine who were Inus. They were naturally skilled creatures, loyal, tenacious, and charismatic.

In the past, they had been picked as Protectors. That didn't mean that it was set in stone that they would always be picked, the last Protector had been a title-less Ryuu after all, but many believed, Kaede included, that the Inu were more likely to be picked. As it stood, there was already an individual in mind, though there would be no confirmation until Kagome matured. It was more a guess than anything else so they could be wrong.

The third category was The Chosen Protector.

There were few who met the requirements to be the Protector, and fewer still who were a fated match to the Kirin. Only one person could be The Chosen Protector, and sometimes they did not have the title Dai. Frankly, the title of Dai was superfluous. There was only one person who had the power and capability to be the Protector, and sometimes it was a nobody from nowhere.

"What does Hachi think?" Muso asked, bringing Kaede out of her thoughts.

"He is hesitant," Kaede admitted. "He wishes for Miyatsu and the council to weigh in first."

"Tanuki never change. They're all shifty."

"Hachi, may be a Tanuki but he is also a servant to the Kejo. He may not be a Chosen, like us, but he is knowledgeable and worthy of our respect." Kaede said, disliking Muso's dismissal of Hachi.

Muso chuckled awkwardly. "That is true." He admitted, letting the moment pass. "Well, I suppose I should tell you why I called."

Kaede really didn't need him to. "You're on your way."

Muso wasn't surprised that she knew. "Yes, we will all be there soon. Us, the Joro and Kejo, we are on our way. Miyatsu informs me that it will take about a week for them to arrive in Fire Country from Water. We will arrive in three days depending on weather conditions, and the Joro will be there tomorrow evening or the day after."

"I thought you were in Water?" Kaede was confused. The Kejo and Arashi clans were never far from each other. Where one went, the other followed. That's just how they were.

Muso shook his head. "No, we are in Earth preparing the Summer Citadel for Her Ladyship."

"But…" Kaede frowned. That hadn't been the plan. "The council decided we would live in Fire Country. They chose Konoha for its relative safety and proximity to the Inu clan. Why would you be preparing the Summer Citadel in Earth?"

Muso scoffed. Out of all the members of their clan, Muso was often the most vocal about his disapproval. She already knew that he didn't agree with the decision to live in Konoha, but she hadn't thought he was so opposed that he would go behind the backs of the council. "You know Her Ladyship cannot stay in one place for long until she is mature. It's not safe." Muso said. It was a little patronizing.

Kaede quirked a brow. She knew that too, she also knew that they wouldn't have gone to the Summer Citadel. After Konoha they would go straight to Water Country were most of the remaining youkai clans lived and where the Trials could begin.

"Muso," She tried to explain, "The council chose Konoha for that reason, because it's close to the Inu who will keep her safe."

"Kaede please," Muso scoffed. "She will be living in a Ninja village? A village of killers? Do you really think she will be safe there? No matter how close it is to the Inu, it is not an appropriate place for Her Ladyship. She should be at the Citadel. Why we are pandering to the Inu, I don't know. Let them come to us if they believe that one of theirs is the next Protector."

She was getting nowhere and she likely wouldn't. Muso was a kind man but also hardheaded and stuck in his ways. It wasn't her place to argue with him, nor was it considerate. When the council convened they would take care of it, since they were the ultimate decisionmakers for the clan.

Kaede shrugged. "The council will listen to your concerns when they arrive. As it stands, we are in Konoha." The council chose Konoha for many reasons. It was Kaede's duty to listen to them and do what they asked of her. She would not argue.

Muso grumbled, but dropped the topic. "I do not like it, but we will be there soon."

Kaede bowed, relieved that the conversation was at its end. "Then, may the road always rise up to meet you." She said kindly.

"And the moon always at your back." Muso returned. "Farwell, Kaede, see you soon!"

"You too, Muso."

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The trip to Taisatsu would take approximately six hours.

Itachi and his teammates left at exactly 13:00 from the west gate, heading southwest on foot. They trekked a little over an hour to get passed the densely packed forest that protected Konoha, before reaching a town on the edge of the forest called Luan.

It was a dilapidated place, with a population a little over 10,000. Most of the homes were ramshackle, made from packed earth, tin, and brick. They were crowded on top of each other, one home overlapping onto another. Wooden slabs, some of them plywood, acted as doors. They led out onto rooftops or uneven brick stairways that slithered through the buildings following no distinct path. Glassless windows, some covered by pieces of cloth, let in the stink of underdeveloped septic systems.

There was only one road. It was poorly maintained with mud coating the edges, as though the earth wanted to swallow it back into oblivion. The team of four followed this road until they reached a train station, though to call it a station was a bit of a stretch. There was a small outhouse where a single staff member sat and a cracked concrete slab that acted as the platform. There were two tracks both heading in the same direction, north-south, but that was it.

Coming down the track from the north was a massive blue engine hauling six rusted passenger cars behind it. It was slowing to a stop, producing a distinct sound of metal scraping against metal. In warning the engineer inside the engine yanked on a chain that let out three sharp whistle blasts, announcing its arrival to the station.

Itachi and his teammates watched the manmade marvel silently. Fumihiro was at the outhouse, presenting their tickets to the old man at the counter. A few minutes later Fumihiro returned, black rucksack thrown over his shoulder. He handed them their tickets and passports, reminding them with a stern look to behave, then instructed them to get on.

The doors of the passenger cars were opened wide and a set of steps were pulled out for easier access. Itachi jumped into the car effortlessly, and begrudgingly made his way to a plastic booth near the back.

Civilians were streaming on and off the car, some climbing up onto the roof to get away from the crowds. It was anxiety inducing for Itachi who was used to having his space, which was made even worse when the doors to the car were slammed shut and locked.

Over the intercom, a mechanical voice announced their departure. "The train is now departing for Kuzo. We will be arriving in approximately 1 hour."

The car rocked, sending some passengers lurching forward into others. It quickly picked up speed.

Itachi watched the scenery pass by, curious about the world beyond Konoha. The towns that he saw were a lot like Luan, in bad shape. The rest of the land was rocky and covered in dense forests.

The city of Kuzo, a place more like Konoha came and went, followed by cities named Goya, Okana, and Shinoro. Finally, the mechanical announcer declared the next stop to be Taisatsu. "…We will arrive in approximately 45 minutes."

It was the longest 45 minutes of Itachi's life.

He was crammed into his seat beside Utae and Eichi, who were also knee to knee with other passengers both standing and sitting. It was incredibly uncomfortable, and they were all grateful when the train finally stopped and the doors opened. They were out before anyone else.

The platform they stepped out onto was a great deal better than the one in Luan. Rows and rows of trains paralleled white washed concrete platforms with metal columns holding up a glass ceiling. Beside them, a train was leaving it's terminal, revealing more tracks and platforms.

Itachi and his group, Fumihiro close behind, shuffled to the end of the platform and down a set of steps into an underground tunnel. At the end, another set of steps led up into a gallery with white marble floors and a cathedral ceiling bedecked in glimmering copper tiles. The walls of the massive gallery room were surrounded by pillars of dark chocolate wood. Panels of the same wood covered the walls underneath tall windows of stained glass that depicted images of epic historical battles where men fought against hordes of monsters and fair ladies soothed and healed the sick.

None of these depictions were known to Itachi or his group, which was frankly worrisome.

With little time for questions, the shinobi followed a group of civilians to a wall of finely crafted windowed booths where they were required to show their passports. The lady behind the countered popped her gum while asking for information about them.

"You say you're from Konoha?" She said, her voice nasally.

Fumihiro nodded. "Yes, and we are here on business."

The lady's hazel eyes, covered by thick rimmed glasses peered at Itachi and his teammates. "Right…" she said skeptically, then looked back at their passports. Itachi, Utae, and Eichi varied in ages, but none were older than fourteen. "And where will you be staying?"

"At the Autumn Heights Hotel on the main plaza."

The lady quirked a brow but stamped their passports and bid them a good day. None of them were under any illusion that she believed them, her behavior indicated clear distrust for their reasons. Her doubt led to a few inconveniences, the most prominent of which were the two burly men in khaki uniforms, station security most likely, tailing them. As a group they ignored them, knowing that they were in no danger and doing nothing wrong.

At the end of the hall, beyond a roped off section, was the public areas. Standing near the rope was a man in a grey uniform, beret cap, badge, and sword. This man was avoided by most, his stiff frame and bland face, a clear warning to not fool around near him. In fact, the minute people saw him, they were extra vigilant and better behaved.

This man, with thick arms and thin hips, held a piece of cardstock that said 'Konoha'. His eyes scanned the packed station for their distinct appearances, finding them only when they were mere feet away. He set the card aside and crossed his arms until they passed the rope.

"Welcome to Taisatsu," the man said. His eyes, speckled with green but mostly light brown, glanced sharply behind them at the men in khaki uniforms, who came over hesitantly.

"Any problems sir?" One of them asked.

The man, their designated liaison, shook his head no. "Not at all boys. Just business."

They nodded, accepting the answer, their interest no longer piqued now that their queries were in the hands of a Taisatsu police officer.

"We best get going," their liaison said, gaze still focused on the retreating men. "We'll debrief on the way."

They agreed, following him out of the station onto a narrow street lined by two to three story buildings made in the traditional bilateral style. Each building had raised stone verandas that were connected to others to keep foot traffic off the busy cobbled street below. On the street, carriages pulled by men and beast cast a fine haze of dust into the air causing many of the people, who were walking along the verandas, to keep their long billowing sleeves over their noses while perusing the stock of the hawking merchants.

Their liaison took a sharp right, stepping down off the train stations massive columned staircase and under the nearest roofed veranda. Their group looked at one another curiously, expecting the man to seek a carriage rather than walk, but followed nonetheless.

The man turned to look over his shoulder at them. "I'm Takemaru," he introduced, "I'll be your guide throughout your stay here. If you need something, let me know, I'll take care of it for you. Taisatsu is very different then your hidden village, I expect you'll have questions."

None of them had anything they felt needed to be address, since none of them really knew where to start. It was all so new, there wasn't much to say.

"Nothing?" Takemaru grinned knowingly. "Well, then I guess I'll just jump in. Taisatsu is the seat of power in Tsukigen. It's been this way for countless years. It was made the seat of power in 322, After the Reaping (AR), under Queen Mosun and her Ko, Tanjo. Then, in 409 AR it became the main industrial center for the Kingdom.

"There are seven districts that you need to be aware of: Sei or Government Center; Goten, the Court Complex; Oi, the Throne; Chuo Basho, the Central Plaza; Tsusho, Trading District; Kogyo, the Industrial Market; and lastly Odaika, the Leisure District."

"What's a Ko?" Eichi was confused, much like the rest of them.

Utae fielded a different question. "None of those are residential? And why is one district called The Throne?"

Takemaru's lips twitched as he expertly avoided a pair of women walking in the opposite direction than himself. They giggled as they passed, stars in their eyes for a man in uniform. "To your question boy, a Ko is a male Kirin just like a Miko is a female Kirin." Takemaru told Eichi. "As to the other questions, your investigations will rarely take you into the residential areas," he explained. "Madam Mokin rarely goes to there since they're controlled by different clans. Unless she's wanting to curry favor from one, she won't step foot past the administrative districts. As for The Throne, that's the absolute center of government power. You will be there often. Madam Mokin and the other Councilors must meet at the main palace district in the Throne Room for government sessions. Though there is no Ruler, yet, it is symbolic for them to bring their concerns to the attention of the Head of State."

"Ruler?" Utae groused.

Takemaru nodded. "Aye, and one day we will have another once our Kirin returns."

"Kirin?" Eichi this time.

Takemaru's eyes sharpened, first in confusion, then in disapproval. "I see," He said, though it was obvious that he didn't. "Perhaps a little history is in order. How much do you know about Tsukigen?"

Utae was always willing to answer such questions. She was a teacher's pet. "Tsukigen is a Kingdom composed of 47 Countries and 16 Shinobi City-States. It was formed by Masamune, the one-eyed dragon, and his wife Midoriko…"

"Not his wife." Takemaru corrected, "his Kirin."

Utae frowned, her nose bunching with her displeasure. "That's a myth."

Takemaru was not impressed. "Some might say so, but the truth is there. While Kirin come in human form, they are not human. They are divine."

Utae's face said it all, she did not believe that. She looked first to Eichi and Itachi, searching for support, then Fumihiro who kept his gaze firmly planted on the road beside them. She found some skepticism from Eichi but nothing from Itachi or Fumihiro.

Itachi was too engrossed in his own ponderings on the subject to notice her looking.

"So, what you're saying," She turned back to Takemaru. "Is that a divine being in human form picks a ruler because the gods say so?"

Takemaru blinked then laughed uproariously. It drew the attention of several people nearby, making the shinobi a little uncomfortable. They weren't used to being so out in the open.

"Heaven's no," Takemaru choked. "Kirin are men and women just like you and me, they are just imbued with the power of the Gods. They come baring the Mandate of Heaven, you could say it's like a jutsu. It heals our lands, makes it prosperous, brings back life. The Kirin can only give it to the Ruler, and only the Ruler may wield it."

Utae was even more confused. What she wanted to say was that it sounded nothing like a jutsu, but chose not to reply this time.

Itachi was curious. "Why don't you pick your ruler for yourselves?"

There was silence for short while. Takemaru was expertly guiding them through the streets of Taisatsu to whatever their destination was.

"We tried that." Takemaru said, sounding solemn. "It didn't work."

"Why?"

Takemaru thought about it. "Because it wasn't meant to be. Only a Kirin can choose the next Ruler."

"But how do you know they're the right Ruler?" Itachi searched. Something about this subject pinged at the back of his mind. In his head Mushin's words kept repeating themselves: 'You're the duck, boy.'

Takemaru blinked. "Well, for one, they're not corrupt, unlike our current government." It was a well-placed dig meant to steer the conversation in a different direction.

It worked as planned.

Fumihiro finally seemed to gain an interest in the conversation. "You think the government is corrupt?"

"Definitely." His response was immediate. "And Mokin's the worst."

"You think Mokin is corrupt?"

The vehemence in Takemaru's eyes said what he wouldn't. "You'll understand soon enough. Any honest citizen will tell you the same. It's as obvious as day, but she's cleverer than most. You've got your work cut out for you."

They were crossing the street now, toward a building that advertised its status as the Autumn Heights Hotel. At the end of the street was the main plaza. Thousands of people were gathering as the day set into evening, cooling the temperature and dispelling some of the humidity. Merchants were selling with gusto, soda-box speakers and entertainers were at the height of their performances, while people dined, enjoying their evening.

In the lobby of the hotel, Takemaru handed them their room keys. "Your rooms are 320 and 323." Takemaru said, "You'll start tomorrow at 05:00. For tonight, relax, enjoyed the fares. This hotel offers a tremendous menu. If you need anything, send a telegram to the police station and we will take care of it. I'll be back to collect you in the morning." Bowing politely, Takemaru moved to exit the hotel while Itachi's teammates walked toward the grand staircase.

Itachi hesitated. "Wait," he called out to Takemaru.

The man stopped, curious.

"You said a Kirin chooses a Ruler. How do you know?" Itachi wasn't really sure what he was asking. Whether about the Kirin or Ruler or both. He didn't really understand why he cared either, only something was telling him to pay attention.

Takemaru seemed just as confused, until he wasn't. He came back over to Itachi, placing a hand on his shoulder. "It is the way it is, and it's been this way for a long time."

"But how do you know?"

Takemaru sighed. "You just know. It will be plain as day."

"How?" Itachi growled, determined to get the answer.

"A Kirin is like nothing you've ever encountered before." Takemaru's face said it all. On it, wonder mixed with admiration and reverence. "It's pure goodness. You'll know."

Something clicked. He did know.

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It was nearly night when Mikoto left work to return home.

She could order a carriage, but she preferred to walk. It was usually faster anyway and less confining.

She entered the Uchiha compound with a sigh. She was beat.

Her employees were idiots. It wasn't that hard to update and maintain her clients' information systems, they just needed to go and do it. The fact that they couldn't, gave her no end of trouble, especially when clients complained and work backed up.

Her heels clapped against the hard ground. A few clansmen who were still out and about looked over to her at the noise, then quickly looked away.

It was satisfying.

Mikoto made her way through the winding streets of the compound until she came to the clinic. It was a squat white building, made mostly of windows that looked out onto the street. At this time of night, most of the blinds were pulled shut and dark, except one.

She stopped, not looking, but aware of where she was. Her jaw tightened. She was only a few blocks from her home, she should just keep going.

She couldn't.

Inside that room was Ami.

From what she knew, the old bat was recovering. Mikoto chuffed and rolled her eyes. Where only a few minutes prior her face was pleasant, now a sneering grimaced formed. Her body was stiff with displeasure.

Ami was a constant thorn in her side. She couldn't get rid of her. The woman was as stalwart as ever.

Mikoto truly believed Ami wouldn't die until she did. The woman hated her, had hated her since the moment she stepped foot in Konoha as the future bride of Fugaku. She had been a vocal opponent of Fugaku and Mikoto's marriage. She was still an opponent. She believed Mikoto was of inferior blood, unworthy of Fugaku, even though she was his cousin.

Mikoto was not of the same mind. When she was picked to be Fugaku's bride, at the age of 17, she was ecstatic. Of all the potential candidates, she had been chosen. At the time, she was skilled, an excellent Shinobi, and merciless beyond measure. Fugaku expressed his interest and even the elders were impressed, all agreeing that she was a perfect match for him, all except Ami.

Ami was Fugaku's grandfather's former mistress. Before Fugaku was born, or even Mikoto, Ami enjoyed a period where she ruled over the clan. Her power was so influential that, until Fugaku became the Head, she ruled as if she were the Head of the clan.

It was only when Fugaku came of age that she stepped aside. Ami adored Fugaku, she considered herself his mentor, and Fugaku was just as partial. Ami could do no wrong in Fugaku's eyes, and vice versa. They were a hell of a pair when they got together, scheming endlessly.

Mikoto didn't like it. She didn't like the way Ami looked at Fugaku, touched his arm, or whispered in his ear. It was too intimate.

Fugaku was the spitting image of his grandfather with a personality to match. It was disgusting to Mikoto how Ami clung to him, laughing like she was in her thirties and still muliebral. She hated it. Hate her.

This hatred was only further compounded by Ami's interest in Itachi. From the moment Mikoto brought him into the world, Ami was there, cooing over everything he did. With one word, she installed herself as his nursemaid, watching over him, teaching him, loving him like a mother.

For the first few months of Itachi's existence, Mikoto had nothing to do with him, could have nothing to do with him. Her resentment grew with each year she had to fight to see her son, beg her husband for a touch, plead to be a part of their lives.

Ami controlled everything then, and for a time, Mikoto was little more than a ghost in her own home.

It didn't take much for Mikoto to understand then why Fugaku's grandmother passed away young. She couldn't compete and she gave up, but Mikoto never would. She was just as ruthless as Ami, she would not bow to the bitch. So, she quit her job as an ANBU operative, built up her walls and defenses, worked diligently to put herself forward as a dominate and active member of their clan, and ever since campaigned against Ami.

By the time Itachi turned seven, Mikoto was firmly installed as his mother and Fugaku's wife. She felt she had the respect she deserved. Slowly, but surely, she was gaining more control. Fugaku came to her nightly, Itachi trusted her, Mikoto returned to working, and Ami…Ami was getting old, less capable of fighting back, even though she still held firmly to her reins of power over the Uchiha. But there was no doubt, in Mikoto's mind, that she would eventually win.

Then, a few months ago, Sasuke was born and Ami was back, insinuating herself into every moment of Itachi and Sasuke's life. There wasn't a moment that Ami didn't try to spend time with her boys or remind Mikoto of her inferiority.

Fugaku let her invade, eager to have his mentor back.

It was as though nothing changed. Mikoto was again an inferior intruder. Ami was back, scheming grand plans with Mikoto's husband, whispering in Fugaku's ear tempting lies that made him greedy for more power, all while petting Mikoto's sons on the head indulgently.

When Itachi returned home with the child and she later heard of Ami's involvement, it was too good to pass up. Her punishment upon Ami, though it pushed her son away from her, it put Ami close to death and Mikoto right where she wanted to be.

Itachi would get over it and Mikoto would deal with Fugaku ire later. For now, she enjoyed the feeling that she was in control.

Mikoto turned her face toward the window, looking in at the fragile old woman behind the glass. The doctors positioned Ami on her stomach. There were tubes running along her arms and out of her mouth while monitors flashed her vital signs.

For a second, Mikoto felt regret for her actions.

It quickly passed when she saw her husband sitting at Ami's side, holding her hand. She immediately turned away and went home, anger and jealousy eating her alive.

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[1] If I haven't said this enough already, this is MAJORLY ALTERNATE UNIVERSE! I am trying to incorporate mostly Inuyasha and Naruto though, so that's why it's in this forum. I am only taking some inspiration from other animes, namely: 12 Kingdoms (the kingdoms concept and kirin), Yu Yu Hakasho (Youko only), Fushigi Yuugi (the trials), Saiunkoku Monogatari (court life), etc. Also, Korean Dramas may be in play as well…[looks around shiftily…"Sorry!"] Also-also, I know that Itachi was 7 when Sasuke was born. So, sue me, I made him older. There's a point to it! We're getting there.

[2] Mokin Abi, formerly in Inuyasha she was the half bird demoness, Princess Abi. Don't remember her? Yeah, I didn't either. Her story is a sad one though, and boy do I love a good tragedy.

[3] In 12 Kingdoms, female Kirin are called Rin and Male Kirin are called Ki. I am only trying to take on some of that story, specifically that there are Kingdoms ruled by a Kirin (divine beings of purity) and Sovereign. So, I changed their gender designations from Rin to Miko and Ki to Ko. I wanted to keep the word Miko as much as possible since it was integral to Inuyasha.

[4] I always imagined Takemaru of Setsuna as devoted to an image of something. So, he shall be… Also, FYI brush up on your Inuyasha characters. There are going to be a lot popping up in this story. A. Lot.

[5] Ami and Mikoto have a rocky relationship. Ami is not what she seems. Mikoto is a jealous harpy with issues. There is a reason Itachi went and massacred his clan in the original show. Something was going on. Ami is a part of it, so is Mikoto. It's going to be epic, the fighting between these two women. Itachi only sees what he's always seen, Ami as his nursemaid, someone who loved him and still loves him. And Ami does love him, but Ami is also power hungry, just like Mikoto. The two are well matched.

[6] To my reviewers, nope it wasn't Inuyasha or Kikyou in the last chapter. Expect the unexpected in this story, and be prepared to see good characters be bad ones and bad characters be good.

[7] Sorry, no Kagome, but she's coming! I'm gonna try to speed things up here soon, I'd give it two more chapters. :D

Also, one last thing. Updates are going to decrease. School has started back up (I'm a teacher) which limits my ability to write. I am also going back to school, because I don't want to be a teacher. I really don't like it. Sucks, but that's life. Expect updates to be once every two or three weeks, but know that this will get finished.

Thank you all for reading. Please tell me what you think in a review. Cheers!