Memories of the Past {c}

[Birdie]

((Sesshmaru-sama!))


She had always supposed that she might never see her home town again. She had always supposed that the place she had lovingly called the Haven of Epsilon. Her home... No, her home was where ever Sesshomaru was. She would follow him to the ends of the earth, as was required of her sex. She followed all of his rules while keeping her father's morals.

Her black eyes surveyed the all too familiar land before her. This land held her memories, as well as many others. These memories she already owned and so many new ones her tiny, slim body automatically absorbed these. Her short, silvery hair hung about her face, framing it much better than when it was long. She found she preffered her hair short, though she was positive that she would never cut it again. Her hair held all of the dreams she ever dreamt, it signified that she was a woman, not a man. She was, in many ways, quite feminine. Her appearance was of delicacy and grace. Something all woman, true woman, wished for. The only thing that made her different from most woman was the pair of antenea that sat ato her head, and the butterfly wings which sometimes made an appearance. Being a butterfly demoness, or at least half n of one, caused this to happen.

She sighed softly, happily. She wondered if her house still stood, or if the soilders had burnt it to the ground. She could not care either way. her new home was in her lover's castle... or rather, his arms. She giggled as the great great grandaughter of one of the butterflies she used to speak with when she had lived here. They thrummed to each other in the language of the butterflies. Small, almost inaudible, save to those who listened well. Those who could hear were lulled by a sense of saftey and love. It was almost as if they were friends meeting again. The butterfly held the memory of some of it's ancestors, rare in their race. After a while the butterfly flew off.

She looked at her single companion. He would be curious. He usually was. She often had conversations with other creatures in which he wa snot included. For us it would be almost like hearing only one side of a phone conversation. "This is the area in which I used to live. I know this land. I know these people. In a few minutes we should see where my home used to reside." She told him, as if that was what the conversation has been about. In truth, what she and the butterfly discussed were simplistic things. The earth, the weather, the trees, the flower, and the nectar supply. Things that were common to both of their people, that is, the two butterfly children.

In a few moments they came upon what was left of some bamboo walls. Some ash still hung about, but most had been blown away with the wind or pounded into the earth by rain. These were the ways of things.

A tiny gasp escaped Brigantia. Her old hosue had been completely ruined. She felt a great sadness, more than she thought she might. The soilders had defiled her father's house. That sadness turned slowly to rage as she wandered the ruins. How dare they!

She paused at what was still the gardens. Everything grew wild now, millions of butterflies flew about. She stared at something just a few feet off. A stone, like those found at the head of graves, decorated with a house like the one that had been burned sat over a mound of grass. She knew this to be her fathers grave. A flash of memories floated about her head and she smiled. Yes, she should be happy. Because they burned the house it would follow him into the spirit relm. It would be given to another when he was re-incarnated. She let her fingers glide over the stone, before she turned away.

She went back to the house, or what was left of it, and sighed softly. "I remember every room that was once here." she whispered.





Things were going better than he could have ever hoped. She had come to a place where he could easily manipulate her. Such a weak, frgaile looking creature. What made the great Lord Sesshomaru love that tiny, harmless creature? "Hmph... at least He will be gotten rid of." he grumbled to himself. Well hidden in a tree, down wind of the couple, he would be hard to find.

He could barely stand the sight of the little creature. She was much too kind and sweet. It was as if she held no evil in her heart. So... what made her the reincarnate of all things evil? He couldn't understand. Perhaps his sources were mistaken. But there was one fact he knew to be true. The two were veyr much in love. The proof was on her neck, and their small actions towards each other.

This would be much fun. He could almost see Sesshomaru's pained face, and it was hard to imagine that man with any sort of emotion.

With a flick of his hand, Brigantia dropped to the ground, not too far from the white haired dog demon. With a large smirk he disapeared. That had been much too easy.

[Lord Sesshomaru]

Sesshomaru scanned his surroundings with little interest. Though, it seemed this land held a lot of interest to his mate. He watched her for a moment, her eyes holding familiarity in the land they walked. He wondered how that was so. But he didn't wonder aloud, as was his way. He sniffed lightly, the scent of humans washing away. There was much more to it. It was too feint for him, though. Distinct, but feint. If he had something to compare it to, then he would know what permeated the air.

Sesshomaru stared at Brigantia and the butterfly in which flew near. Pointed ears twitching every so often to pick up the vibrations in the air. He was used to this. Brigantia and her familiarity with butterflies. And then the butterfly was gone, and she was speaking to him.

It was rather surprising that these lands used to be where she lived. He looked around the land with a new light. This was where she grew up. She spoke of her home and he was rather curious to see where she lived. When they did come up to the home in which she had spoken of, what he saw was something he wasn't sure if he was expecting or not.

Sesshomaru glanced at Brigantia, wondering on her reaction to instead of coming to her home, coming to a burnt down building. He followed her silently as she took in all the damage. They came to a grave stone, and she seemed to be happy to look at it. He wondered whos it was. He watched her, standing behind her all emotion hidden from view.

Sesshomaru kept his gaze on the grave for a moment as she spoke. To whom she was talking to, he didn't know. Probably him, he guessed, but he didn't know what she expected him to say. Suddenly he heard a light thud, and he turned to face Brigantia, shocked to see her lying on the floor.

He walked toward her briskly and gathered her into his arms, his eyes scanning over her body as if there would be a physical reason why she had just suddenly dropped to the floor. But there was none. Had she just passed out? Was it something similar to what happened at Onigumo's cave?

Sesshomaru didn't know, but he did his best to keep calm about it. In fact, he had done a good job in keeping the worried look from coming across his face. He stood from his crouching position and carried Brigantia to a nearby tree, laying her down at its base. He knew he could do nothing more, and this time he did a very better job of accepting that fact.

There was nothing more for him to do except to wait for her to awaken, as he had done plenty of times before.

[Birdie]

after some time her eyes fluttered open. Her surroundings were odd to her. In fact... everything was unfamiliar, even the person who stood, wtaching her expectantly. He seemed cold, but something about his posture made him seem ready to come to her side at any moment, though something like manly pride would never let him do such a thing.

Her dark eyes looked curiously at him for a moment, then at the area around her. "Where am I?" she asked, slowly standing and brushing herself off. She looked at him again. She cocked her head to one side. "What is your name?" she asked. She didn't wait for an answer. She bowed, a little uneasily. "Thank you for watching over me sir. It was very kind." She stood up straight with a small smile.. She was the same innocent girl, only more confused.

She brushed her short hair behind her ears. "I wonder if this is my home. I wonder what happened. It looks like it happened a long time ago. So.... what happened to me? Do you know me? Maybe I know you." she pointed to him. Suddenly she clutched her head. "AAH!" she cried out, falling to her knees.



Oooops, he pushed a little too hard. It seemed she had no walls up. It was odd he should expect there to be.


She panted a bit, then shook her head. She slowly got to her feet, her entire body shaking. "Wait... No... I don't know you... There is someone else..." She whispered, looking around as if in search for someone.


He walked down the path as if it were a completely normal thing to do. He paused when he saw the form of the small female. "Brigantia?" he asked, as if compeltely surprised by the fact she still lived. Her eyes widened at the sight of him.


"Nero?" her voice was barely above a whisper. She ran into him, throwing her arms around his neck in a tight hug.

"They said you were dead! That you had died with the fire, when the soilders came through the town! Where have you been?" he demanded of the small creature.

"I... I don't know." She rubbed her temples as if in pain.

"It's all right. Don't stress yourself... I'm not surprised you lost your memory." He told her gently, pulling her closer.

"Can I.... Can I stay with you?" she asked softly against his shoulder.

[Lord Sesshomaru]

She had woken up faster then those other times, but that only made his relief much more intense. If she didn't stay unconcious long, then there must be nothing wrong at all. So then...what had happened? He was about to ask her that when she spoke up, asking questions he was pretty sure she already knew the answers to. Where was she? He was shocked of that question, but showed none of it. Maybe because he had moved her to the tree. That was it, probably.

Sesshomaru watched her stand with no pain, and the curiosity to her collapsing was pushing away his relief. Though such thoughts quickly died with her next question. He stiffened, eyes widening for a moment as he took in the look on her face. Who was he...? He couldn't believe she was asking him that! Please, oh please let it be a joke. She was playing a joke on him...one that was not like her, but still he would rather accept that fact then the one that was hitting him in the face.

Sesshomaru's eyes never left her form, even as she bowed and thanked him for watching over her. He didn't miss how she had called him 'sir'....it was no joke. He stood there, as stiff as stone, his golden eyes narrowed to hide the shock, and the confusion on his face. She was speaking now, and he barely payed attention to her. More gibberish to prove she had no memories. None of him...none at all...

Sesshomaru did not even budge when she screamed in pain, in fact, his eyes only narrowed as he hid his concern. And then she was speaking of another. Another? Who? Hearing someone speak his mates name, he turned to look at the man that came forward. It happened so fast.

This...this Nero, was remembered by Brigantia, in fact, she went and embraced him and he felt rage boil his blood, but he could not move. He was still so stiff. He could only watch as they interacted with each other, his eyes narrowing dangerously at the man. This Nero. Who the hell was he? How can she remember that man, and not he?

Can I stay with you?

Pain. It felt so real, he could almost feel the blood oozing out of him. Her words had stabbed him hard. He was so stiff, he thought he would be stuck standing there for all of eternity. He felt as if he had been stabbed in the back with a dull blade. He grinded his teeth together, but nothing showed but the quick and unoticable twitch in his jaw.

What should he do? Should he do what he truly wanted to do, chop off the man's head, take Brigantia by force and then try to force the memory back in her. If she did not regain her memory, the concequances would be horrible. She would fear him for the rest of eternity.

But he couldn't leave her with him. But what could he say? Nothing that she would believe when she had no memory....he was stuck....

[Birdie]

"Of course. I can't let you go again." Her told her, his nose in her hair. He was surprised by how good she smelled. One would think she would be hot and perhaps stinky from traveling. Somehow she retained the smell of flowres, a sweet succulent smell that could draw anyone in, whether they liked her or not. He slowly moved from her, ready to take her back to the village. It was prsoperous back in the days of her father, but now... now it wasn't as beautiful as it was then, but still, people here did not want for money. It would be a wonderful place to let his plans continue.

"Wait." She said, stopping him, then wincing. Was she that weak? When he even held her to hard, or when she struggled he could bruise her? She damaged so easily, like a fragile little doll. She was a curious little creature. "Can't we do something for him? He took care of me, for as much as I know. I don't remember alot, but he was there when I woke up. So maybe I do know him. Somehow I do feel really close to him, it's hard to understand. I would like to thnak hims omehow... and maybe he knows something about my past."

Nero shifted from foot to foot, as if deciding, but the answer was already known. "All right." he spoke, as if weary, but inside he was rejoicing. "I suppose he can come." his tone was cold an icy. Obviously he didn't like him, and it was cursial that his 'character' did not like Sesshomaru as well.

"Thank you Nero!" she stood on her tip toes to kiss his cheek.

Something about that gentle touch made hims hiver. She was... sweet, innocent. If he wasn't careful, she could end up stealing his heart! And that would be a stupid mistake, it would ruinhis whole plan... or prehaps not, but he had no plan to give his heart away anytime soon. As this was decided he smiled down at her. "Of course. I'm just glad to have my dear friend back! You've been missing for about two years now!" he told her, his arm around her waist in a protective way. She flushed darkly.

"I'm sorry. I barely remember you, just a few memories. It just... it doesn't feel right, I'm sorry." She pushed him away. Obviously something about his touch had scared her away, confused her. He was moving too fast for her. She had a few simple memories. He had played with her as a small child when no other kid would. She had lived with him for a small period of time, after her father's death. He had done simple things for her. She had only about a month's worth of memories. Something made her draw towards Sesshomaru. She grabbed his hand and looked up at him with her large, innocent, butterfly eyes. "Please come with us. Perhaps You can help me gain my memories, besides, I want to thank you for watching over me. It truely was wonderfully kind." She was practically begging himw ith her eyes, her hand held onto his tightly, like he was the only thing that kept her tied to life. This she unknowingly did.

Nero saw this and harumphed, turning slightly and tapping his foot. "If your comming you had better hurry. I still have a shop to look after!"

"You have a shop!" she said excitedly. She did not let go of Sesshomaru's hand. This annoyed Nero even more. Despite the fact she had no memories, her heart still called to Sesshomaru. Maybe this would ruin his plan... but if Nero knew anything, it was how to take a girl's heart away from her lover, and this he did while the girl had memories. No memories just made his job easier, though the pain of the lover was not quite as large as the other way... but Nero would never get Birdie if she still knew that Sesshomaru was his mate.

She reached up to touch the mark on her neck, subconciously. She jumped in surprise, drawing closer to Sesshomaru then promptly apologizing and letting him go. She was thuroughly embaressed for having done such a thing to some one she 'didn't' know. "Where did I get this?" She asked Nero.

"Maybe during the fire? I'm not sure, let me see." He moved closer to Brigantia. He let his fingers run over the scarred tissue. Her skin was very... soft. She was almost like the perfect woman or something. Soft skin, wonderful body, sweet disposition. Did she have any flaws? He nearly growled in frustration. Lucky guy, to find such a babe. If only she were a bit less kind to others... After studying it for a moment, he kissed it. He supposed it would be like nullifying the effect of the mark. Making her his rather than Sesshomaru's. Nero smiled brightly at her red face.

"What was that for?"

"Good luck! Maybe it will heal, like Old Man Ricchu's old war gash."

"Oh! The one he really got from stepping on that rake?"

"Yeah!"

"Oh, hee hee, maybe."

The two began towards the town, discussing 'old times'. Brigantia turned, to see if Sesshomaru would follow. Her eyes asking him to come, like she just couldn't leave him behind.

[Lord Sesshomaru]

Damn him! Damn that bastard Nero! Only, he, Sesshomaru, was allowed to smell her hair like that! Sesshomaru was so aware of every little gesture between the two. Every little hand movement. Of skin to skin contact. And he couldn't stand it. His possessivenes was kicking in and he could not pull her to him, could not kill this Nero, could not even move from where he stood.

Sesshomaru's anger dissolved when Brigantia spoke. He felt like he had some hope. She wanted him to come with them. She even thought that he might help her with her past! Maybe this was what he needed. If he stayed near her, something must come up. And though he could not hurt Nero yet, once the memories returned, Sesshomaru would be able to take pleasure in torturing the man.

Nero agreed, in which Sesshomaru thought him a fool. Ah well, keep friends close and enemies closer. And this man had made it to the top of Sesshomaru's enemy list. Even though the anger had subsided, it reached new heights when Brigantia kissed the man's cheek. He calmed himself easy enough. A kiss on the cheek was nothing right? She would have done that to anyone, right? Yes. He was just going to keep that in mind to help his nerves a bit.

Sesshomaru watched the two, what caught his attention was how Nero had said 'dear friend' instead something more. Good. They were just friends. Nothing more. Sesshomaru still had a chance. He glared viciously at Nero's arm that wrapped around Brigantia's waist. Damn him!! Only his arm could wrap around her waist like that!!

Sesshomaru's emotions changed from anger to something more happy as he watched Brigantia push him away and speak. Yes! Yes yes! Take that damned Nero!! Hah! Suddenly Brigantia was at his side, his hand in hers and she pleaded for him to come with them. He took note the tight hold on his hand and his hope soared.

Sesshomaru smiled. It was fast, and unnoticable to anyone else but Brigantia, for it was only for her eyes only. It was gone less then a second later, and he was about to accept before Nero spoke. And suddenly the conversation had turned to a shop that Nero supposedly had.

Sesshomaru's only thoughts were that she hadn't let go of his hand. But then she did, drawing closer to him for a moment. He had wanted to put his arm around her waist, keeping her close to him...but he stopped himself from doing so. Instead, he stayed quiet and allowed the two to talk. Of course, he was slightly angry on how she asked Nero how she got the mark on her neck, instead of asking, maybe both of them.

Too close. Nero was too close to Brigantia. Just like when they had been hugging. He watched, eyes possessive as Nero touched the mark. That was his mark. She belonged to him, and him alone. No one should touch that mark! This Nero was making him more and more angry. He was taken by the lust for blood. Nero's blood...but knew that it would do no good.

Sesshomaru stiffened even more, his hand fisting at his side, his long nails stabbing into the palm of his hand and drawing blood. He unfisted his hand for the wound to heal. He took in a deep breath as he watched Nero kiss the mark, and see the blush on Brigantia's cheeks. This Nero...he was worse then Hitoshi. Though, thinking of Hitoshi made it easier to watch these actions and stay calm.

Sesshomaru heard nothing more. He drowned out there conversation, finding no importance in it at all. He even turned his head so that he didn't have to watch the two. No emotion showed on his face, his eyes though, were more narrowed then usual. But from that, he looked rather calm. He turned back to them as they walked away, his eyes falling on Brigantia as she looked at him, waiting for him to follow.

Sesshomaru slowly began to walk in there direction, he stayed behind the two, a few feet away from them. He could not leave her with Nero. He had to be near, so that she could remember something. Maybe he could take her a side and speak to her in private. Telling her what the mark on her neck really was. That would get her wondering, wouldn't it?

As he walked and followed the two, his eyes never leaving their forms, he thought of all the ways he could reach her memories. Anything he could do that would seem like a deja vu to her. He had to make sure they were alone though. Even if it was for her memory, he could not show the affection he would want with Nero around...

[Birdie]

When he followed she smiled. She then turned to her 'friend'. They began to talk of things about their village, memories. Many of them she did not remember. Nero assured ehr she woudl and she trusted him. They had been friends, right. Later she would ask that man what he knew about the two years she had been gone.

"Exactly how old am I?"

"About two summers now."

"Wow... Who was my father? My mother? How did we meet? Was I married to anyone? When did the fire happen? Why didn't anyone find me? Why did I suddenly appear here again after two years?"

"Slow down! I'll answer all your questions when we get home!" he held up his hands near his shoulders in an almost defensive, yet playful manor.

She flushed, apologizing quickly, nibbling on her bottom lip, a very old habbit. One that always was, it developed some time after she had become Sesshomaru's mate. She did it when nervous or scared.

He laughed. "no worries." They continued to talk until the reached his home/shop in the main square of the village. Apparently he was some sort of jewlery worker. This would make him very rich, considering all the fine ladies Brigantia had seen while walking into the town. Most of them strayed to the other side of the street because of the sudden appearance of two demons. A few people greeted them, those who completely trusted Nero's judgement that is.

They entered his home. "Please, come in... Both of you I suppose." Nero said darkly. He let Brigantia enter first, then he after her. Sesshomaru would have to be last. A lord taking the lowest rank? behind his mate? That was so very, very wrong.

The shop itself was very fine, and lacked personality, like most shops. The house was very much the same. The entire set up made Brigantia shiver, but her mind strayed to those fine ladies. Were those the type of women Nero preffered? Or perhaps that man... Why she would want to make herself attractive to that man was completely beyond her, but, all the same, she supposed it had something to do with the past she could not remember.

"This is your room Birdie." He used the nick name given to her by her father, something she would have only allowed Sesshomaru to use, and maybe Hitoshi and Rin, but that was it. She blushed and entered the room. Nero followed closely behind. It was also plain. "Since you are staying here you can decorate it any way you like. You should also get soem new clothes. You've been traveling quite a bit, and they seem somewhat worn. All I have to do is get your measurements and I can get my tailor to make you something." Brigantia nodded dumbly. "You can wash up, supper will be ready in half an hour." Nero then turned to Sesshomaru after closing the door behind Brigantia. "Your room is this way." He led the other man down the hall until they came to the room that seemed to match Brigantia's. "You will only stay as long as Brigantia desires you to stay. A soon as she feels she has repaid you, you must leave. " with that the door was slammed behind Sesshomaru with out a word.


((a chance to sneak off and talk to Birdie!))

[Lord Sesshomaru]

Sesshomaru followed silently behind the two, he couldn't help himself from listening on their converstations of past times. Maybe it could help him? He didn't know. The feudal lord had never been in this type of situation. He couldn't believe that it was he that was following Brigantia, instead of the other way around like it normally was. He hated following. He was not a follower, he was a leader and yet it seemeds that Nero had taken that position. He hated that man. Despised him with all his being. But Sesshomaru knew better then to act on what he felt at that moment when he had Brigantia in mind.

Sesshomaru did his best to keep his mind off of the two. His golden orbs scanned the village they came to, surprised on how prosperous it was. He could see the villagers wary stares at him, but was surprised when some side hello. He glared at them and continued forward. They were beneath him, how dare they speak to him with such familiar. Finally, his attention turned on the hut they were entering. He was wary of this place.

Sesshomaru held back his anger for Nero when they entered. Him last as if he was some sort of slave following its master. Damn that man. Once entering, he looked around the house, finding it unpleasing. This whole house probably had less items in it then one room at Sesshomaru's domain. Of course, he didn't say anything on the matter.

Like his opinion would matter to the man. Sesshomaru watched the two, Nero speaking to Brigantia, using her nickname in which Sesshomaru had never really used. He had his own pet name to call her. He barely listened to what Nero said as he showed her to her room. And then it was his turn. This time he was much more hesitant to following Nero. He had the excuse that it was Brigantia he was following. Sesshomaru couldn't stand to take the same steps as the man, but knew that his compliance was the fastest way to get back to Brigantia.

Sesshomaru slowly stepped in the room given to him, giving it a displeasing look. He ignored Nero's words, and the slamming of the door. He turned back toward the entrance, staring at the door. He was slightly disapointed that he would be in a room so far from Brigantia.....

Wait, what was he doing still standing there?

Sesshomaru slowly opened the door, his ears listening to the footsteps of Nero as he left the hall. He opened and closed the door, to make it seem like he didn't leave the room. He walked briskly to the room Brigantia had been placed in, his foot steps silent he slowly slid the door open and closed the door behind him, his back against the door.

This was his chance to speak to Brigantia....it might be his only chance, for he never knew what would be waiting for him in the morrow.

((yay!!))

[Birdie]

Brigantia could not fathom the reason Nero detested that man so much. It could possibly be him that, in the end, connected her life in the village two years ago to now. It confused her greatly how her dear friend could act so coldly towards another living creature. He was only a human, but he never used to act like that towards others. Perhaps it was only this man? If it was so... then what had the other done to Nero? She shook her head.

She felt dirty and her back began to ache, right in between her shoulder blades. Or rather, it itched. It was an odd sensation, on she couldn't understand. There was a small tub of water in the corner of the room where she could wash her face an hands. Embaressed enough about her dress, she didn't want to get it any more dirty (well, wet). She slid it from her shoulders, untying the ribbon around her waist. She lay the kimono on the bed, quite gently, She straightened it out, then went to the water. She promptly began to wash her face off. It was a lot dirtier than it had seemed before. She smiled, happy to get such a thing off her face. Perhaps later tonight she would ask to visit a river near by... Or maybe the baths were still around?

She was walking towards her kimono, deep in thought, when her door silently opened, then closed. Brigantia opene dher mouth to scream, but no sound came out. Slowly she closed her mouth. Her cheeks a bright red, she finished getting her kimono and wrapped it about her, putting it back onto her body.

Her large eyes began to fill with tears of embaressment, she was shivering, her cheeks were flushed. She looked similar to the time when she had been in the garden, just before she had become his mate. When she had cut her finger on the thorn of a flower. It was a memory long forgotten to her.

A tiny whimper escaped her lips, and her fingers immediatly went to the mark, for strength. This was a subconcious action, for she had no memories of the reason. A small, uncomfortable smile came to her lips. Some of her hair was wet from when she had washed her face, and hung in limp tendrils. "S-s-sir...? C-c-can I h-help y-you? D-did you g-g-get lost?" she managed to stutter out, her embaressement growing, as she began to shrink into herself. She wished she could faint or something. His gaze made her feel hot and uncomfortable. It was almost as she knew what it was his mind was thinking. For some reason all she wanted to do was throw herself into his arms and hide her face in his chest, begging for forgiveness from... something.... What ever it was she wanted forgiveness from. SHe couldn't understand.

She suddenly gasp as the pain between her shoulder blades sharps. She moved her shoulders a bit in order to try and relax it. It still stung. Maybe this man knew. She wanted to ask him, but didn't know how to go about it.

[Lord Sesshomaru]

Sesshomaru scanned the room for Brigantia, but what he saw took him by surprise. He stiffened, staring at the hanyou before him. This was a bad time then? Of course, what he saw was nothing new to him, what was new was the look on her face. Which he did his best to keep his eyes on instead of her curves and her chest. He had caught her at the worst of times. Now she probably thought him some type of hentai.

The look on her face was not very helpful. He felt bad for walking in on her like this. Sesshomaru stayed close to the door, keeping his distance from her. The distance she needed, he was sure. Even now, when she had put back on her kimono, he made sure to keep his eyes on her face only. He couldn't give the wrong impression now.

Sesshomaru almost rolled his eyes when she spoke. What had he told her about stuttering? He remembered then, that she didn't remember him ever saying that. She didn't remember him, and he didn't know how to help her remember. This was something completely out of his league. He knew how to fight, he even knew how to bring back the dead....

But this was something that kept him on the edge. One wrong move and it would be over. "No." he finally replied to her words. Lost? Oh please, him get lost? In a house none the less? Rediculous. Sesshomaru heard her gasp, and saw the pained look on her face and he quickly walked across the room to come to her side. He didn't know what was happening, of course. When it came to Brigantia, there was little he did know.

Including when he could see no wound, and yet she seemed in pain....

[Birdie]

"It's my back..." She told him, as if he had asked. "There is a spot where it pains me. I do not understand what it could be. Perhaps I once had an old wound. Could you tell me? Could you take a look please. I would ask Nero but I do not want to disturb him..." She said softly. She turned slightly, so that her back was facing Sesshomaru, she allowed the kimono to slip from her shoulcers, but just enough to show just her upper back, she made sure the cloth fell not furthar. Already what she was doing felt weird to her, but in the sense that it was disrespectful and unlady like to do in someone elses house... No, this is my home... But, then why do I feel as if I don't belong. she thought, looking over her shoulder at him in a demure, shy way. "I winder what could be wrong." she whispered.

What she could not see was, that on her back, directly in between her shoulder blades there were two very black lumps, the skin around those stalk like protrusions was very red. It almost looked as if someone had cut away her wing. But, in truth, they were trying to grow, but were having some trouble. Brigantia's mind control, all that was really her had been disconnected, and so how to control her physical body had also been forgotten. A thing that had once been automatic and painless now became painful and had to force it's way through.

She brought a finger to her lips in an innocent worried way. The man looked so stoic, but his feyes showed every single one of his emotions. He seemed so hurt and mixed up. Why had he wanted to see her? Were we close in the past? I wonder... I just... I can't remember him. I feel like our souls have, perhaps, known each other for a life time... perhaps many. I know I am the reincarnate of many souls. Perhaps he too is a re-incarnate? It is hard to know. It would be wonderful to have memories.

"Would you tell me... one of your happiest memories?" she asked, the pain in her back starting to dull down a bit, though it still throbbed. Memories were so important to her, she wondered why she did not have more, why they had to be taken away from her. It made her feel rather sad.

[Lord Sesshomaru]

Sesshomaru was rather worried about Brigantia's pain, his eyes turned to the place in which she stated the pain to be coming from. Her back? Did it have something to do with her memories missing? Or when she had feinted? He ignored the comment of bother Nero, which brought back a little bit of his anger, but it passed when she pulled back the cloth and showed the part of her back that was in pain.

Brigantia's wings....

Sesshomaru's brows furrowed in thought, not understanding why she was in pain, just as much as she didn't. Was it normal? Was there something wrong with her wings, or was the pain common and only Brigantia could normally ignore if she had her memories of knowing the pain from before. Of course, he did not know what to say then. Should he say it was normal? Should he say there was something wrong? Or could he get away with not knowing when it should be him that knew? If anything, just to tell her that he knew her better then she thought he did.

Sesshomaru brought his hand up, about to touch the redden skin around the black lump, but pulled away when he could see her turn her head toward him from the corner of his eye. Even then, he stared at the two black lumps that were normally wings until her question came to his pointed ears.

Sesshomaru turned his head to look at her face. As much as he could see with her back turned toward him. Happiest memory? He knew one that came straight to mind, but he didn't know if he should tell her. He didn't give himself time to think much on which memory would be best to use for her, he answered at the mere spur of the moment.

"When you defended me, and yelled at my mother." he said, trying to hold back a small smile. It was one of the most recent memories he had, one he was sure he would not forget. Of course, he didn't think on how she would react in doing something she did not remember. Including something that was completely not like her.

[Birdie]

She blinked, shocked. She had no recolection of such a thing. She turned away, thoughtfully. She didn't know she was capable of doing such a thing. "Was that why you watched over me? To return a favor? I think, for me to have defended you against her... I think she must have been a terribe woman who had said or done some terrible things." She stared at her feet for a moment. SHe slowly pulled her kimono back up, over her shoulders. She did not move for a veyr long time.

"I have a truely happy memory, it's somewhere in my heart... but I cna not remember it. I am sure I have many of thses. Maybe they involve you. Don't you think that would be nice? I would like to have happy memories of you... I would also like to remember more of Nero." She laughed a little, finally turning to smile up a thim. The smile that had always been ment for him. His smile. She reached out her hand and grabbed his. "Thank you, for telling me this. It makes me feel... i don't know how to describe it... It's so very warm, and bubbles with in my like a spring... what you said... that your favorite memory includes me... that is how it makes me feel." She blushed. "I'm sorry, it probably doesn't make much sense, but I barely understand my emotions anymore... No memories to connect them to.... I know happiness, I know sadness, and I know what it takes to make me laugh. I have a memory of Nero finding out that I was extremely ticklish. I was a child at the time, he was, perhaps, seventeen. We were playing a game, then he brushed his fingers over my side, causing me to giggle. He smirked and then asked me if I was ticklish. I immediatly denied it. Before I knew it he attacked me, holding me down until I laighed so hard that i cried." She shook her head. "It's odd... I feel as if that is not my happiest memory. From the little I have, it seems that it should but... There is somethign more, something better.... I wonder if it includes you. Don't you think that would be nice? If my happiest memory included you? Then, perhaps, I would not feel as if I owe you something...."

She just kept speaking, mostly out of nervousness, but there was also some part of her that trusted him not to suddenly attack and rape her. She felt as if he were a close friend she could share memories with. She wasn't sure what she felt for Nero. She didn't know what love felt like... She didn't know what wary-ness was. For all she knew, they could be the same feeling.

Suddenly she tighened his grip on her hand, her large eyes looking up to him. "We should go down to dinner." Perhaps it was the real her shinning through at that moment, but the look in her eyes was of absolute fear, even if the rest of her body, and her words portrayed contented-ness.

((If you want you can take them down to dinner. I know it wasn't too long for them to talk or anything, sorreh XD))

[Lord Sesshomaru]

A favor? No, that was not even close to the reason for him watching over her. Not at all. Ah, well, he didn't say anything about it. Nothing he could say. He didn't say anything to all she said. A horrible woman? His mother? Well, she did make such an impression on Brigantia at the time. He liked that memory very much. The shock of her being more then her normal shy and quiet self.

Sesshomaru listened to her as she chatted away. Of her happy memories. Maybe they did have to do with him. He hoped so. They better, actually. She smiled, and he felt it contagious but stopped himself from giving her one in return. Instead, he was able to show the little affection he could when she grabbed his hand. He squeezed it lightly, keeping in mind of how fragile she was, but just enough pressure to be noticable.

Speaking of her feelings, then going into detail about a memory she had with Nero. It was easier to hide a small when she talked about him. He hated that man! Maybe he could kill him in the night and make it seem like it hadn't been him that done it. Then she wouldn't fear him, and that damned Nero would be out of the way....

Too bad that sneaking to kill was not his thing. It had no honor in it. To kill a man in his sleep, and he wanted this one to feel every ounce of pain he could inflict. Sesshomaru changed his line of thought before his blood lust showed in his eyes.

It was easy enough, when she continued about her happiest memory feeling like it had him in it. He looked at her thoughtfully for a moment. They were so many of them, he did not know in which she would choose. When she was done speaking, he about to speak, to tell her that she didn't owe him anything. He stopped himself though. Nero had said that Sesshomaru was only welcome until Brigantia felt that she didn't owe him.

Like that would stop him! Of course, he had to make sure to be compliant for Brigantia. His actions was still first impressions to her. When she tightened her grip, he glanced down at their hands, before back at her as she spoke. Dinner? But he didn't eat human food! But in her eyes, he couldn't find himself to state such a thing. Her emotions that showed confused him enough that he didn't say anything against it.

Instead he only nodded and turned back to the door. He released her hand and opened the door he hesitated for a moment, a thought coming to his mind. Finally, he gave in to his thoughts and grabbed her hand again leading her down the hall to where the scent of food permeated the air.

[Birdie]

She watched him curiously. He was, all in all, an odd man. He was like no other she had ever met. While they were passing a mirror in the hall she stopped. In the mirror a creature stared back at her. She gasped, her hand slipping from Sesshomaru's to touch her antenea. Was she some kind of bug creature? She shook her head, her antenea wobbling, her usually tan face slightly paler. "What am I?" she asked. It now made sense why people were so wary of her, and why so many hated her. From her limited memories, she had no clue. She began to laugh. This drew Nero out from the dining area.

Seeing them so close togather made him raise an eyebrow. Was he able to bring back some of her old memeories? No... no, she didn't have any old memories, but it seemed she was begining to have doubt in her new ones... because of whats he was. He added a mix of her old memories, something simple, like her father, but most of it was something that involved Nero in some way. He had to make her a big part of her life in the past for his plan to work. He watched Brigantia double over against the wall, gasping in pain as she grabbed her head.

Nero didn't move from his spot. He didn't want to go help her... to touch her. Her skin was too soft and attractive, she smelled too wonderful. He was afraid he might care a bit too much... Which would completly ruin his plan. Or maybe... make it more real? He could still use her after Sesshomaru had gone, rejected by the one thing he cared most about... or so Nero presumed.

Why did it have to hurt so much. She leaned against the wall for support as she panted, wiping sweat from her brow. She straightened, grinning brightly. "I remember something more!" she explained, her eyes glowin with happiness. "I remember my father! Nero, what happened to him?"

"He died when the souilders came through, in the fire." Nero told her firmly. He was frowning then smiled. "Well, come eat, if you're hungry that is." Obviously Niehter he nor Sesshomaru would eat. He knew this. "If you re not you are welcome to go back to your room." The comment was directed towards poor Sesshomaru..

Brigantia ran to the stairs, sliding down the banisters, and, as Nero had wanted, into his arms. He twirled her around for a moment, then set her down. "Remember when we used to do that?" she asked him "You know, in my father's home." His arms were still around her waist as he held her close. It seemed that Nero was making a better impression on her now that she had more memories of him. "I remember, that, when you were older, I caught you once, and this happened...." he leaned forward and kissed her, but only lightly. His lips tasted... amazinmg. Like some sort of unknown fruit. He was shocked by this and found himself wanting her lips again, just to taste that odd, but addictive taste. She was blushing more that she had ever, except for that day, no so long ago, when she became Sesshomaru's mate.

"Y-yes... I-i-i r-r-remember th-that." she said softly, adverting her eyes.

She was so adorably shy. The look on her face was one of lust. How often did that man kiss her? Obviously not enough for it to be this easy for Nero. He almost looked at Sesshomaru with his eyebrow raised, but did not. It seemed the man was not one for affection in view of others. He quickly gave her another kiss, just to razzle Sesshomaru up a bit. He then grabbed Brigantia's hand and lead her into the room.

There, at the table, traditionally on the floor, was a simple dinner with a bunch of flowers in the middle of the table. Brigantia took her place in a spot proper for females, though her actions ealier had not been very proper. She sat silently, waiting for the other two. Nero just sat down, very uncaring.