Tangled Destiny
By Squeakyinuears
Disclaimer: I own an Inuyasha plushie. . . but even then. . . ::sighs:: . . . it just isn't the same thing as owning the real Inuyasha.
Pre-A/N: This newest story is influenced, in part, by "Goose Chase," by Patrice Kindl, and "The Fairy Godmother" by Mercedes Lackey, neither of which, I own.
This chapter borrowed some ideas from the song, "Happily Ever After" from the delightful musical, "Once Upon a Mattress". More information as to which ideas were borrowed will be given at the end of this chapter.
Additional Note: The Princess Tsuyu mentioned in this chapter appears in volume 3 of the Inuyasha manga and episode 8 of the anime. The girl Koharu, mentioned in this chapter, appears in volume 15 of the Inuyasha manga and episodes 41-42 of the anime. If you have not read/seen up to there - SPOILER for you!
My deepest thanks to Ithilwen for her comments at GT, and Kat for beta-ing this chapter and helping me brainstorm!!
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Chapter 2 - Twist of Fate
"We must never feel sorry for ourselves. No matter how bad it gets, it can always get worse." - Ever After (the book) by Wendy Loggia, based on the screenplay by Susan Grant, Andy Tennant, and Rick Parks
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"Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own." - Aesop
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I have always believed with unshakable certainty that mornings are excellent times for sleeping. There is none of this business of waking up with the sun or even rising before dawn in my story, like in so many other tales. No, for my part, all that I am supposed to do is lower my hair, first for the Witch, and then for the Prince.
The former I must do, if I am to receive my daily meal, but the latter I simply refuse to see through. So long as the Prince stays outside, and I inside, we should be safe. . . for now.
The sun shines through my curtain-less window straight into my eyes. If it can do so from where I am reclining on my futon, then it must be time to rise. I stretch and yawn, and make my way nimbly over my hair that is piled every-which-way in my small, circular room. After years of dodging around potential tripping zones, I barely need to look at where I place my feet. I was not blessed with grace for nothing.
There are no birds to greet me when I open the window. None appear to help me with my chores and sing along as I begin the day. This is most likely because I cannot sing, as stated before. The animals like me well enough, I suppose, as animals go, but they tend to scatter when I clear my throat in preparation for a solo.
The very first time I sang as a small toddler, birds and rodents flocked to my window, and many other woodland creatures gathered around the tower. I cannot blame them for making assumptions on my voice. After all, I was practically perfect in every other way even then - why should I not possess a heavenly voice?
Poor things. It was quite a shock for them, therefore, when I did at last open my toddler-mouth and proceeded to scare away every living thing for miles around. As I recall, it was months before any wildlife dared to draw near the tower again.
A breeze blows in, carrying with it the fresh scent of dew and blooming flowers. I breathe in deeply, closing my eyes and lifting my face up to the sun. I adore mornings, do not mistake me. I only wish that they began later in the day, when I am fully functioning and can properly appreciate them.
This is not the first time that life has ignored my wants and desires, however, and it will not be the last. After all, did I ASK for all of this hair? No.
I suppose I shall have to give Yura some credit, though. While I will never be grateful for my hairy predicament, I must admit it could have been worse. A lot worse. She could have given me split ends. Or dandruff. Or. . . lice. Those things are infinitely much worse than just long hair.
Moreover, I almost became a pale-skinned Snow White myself. I had all the qualifications of one, at first. Black hair, red lips, long eyelashes. . . As for the skin - all that had to be done was to keep me away from any sunshine and voila, one translucent girl is made. But luckily (or unluckily), the last fairy gave me long hair, and my life was sent spinning off in another direction - another tale.
I am still debating as to which fate is the worst off. On the one hand, the original Snow White was carried off by her Prince Charming, no doubt to live contentedly ever after, if not happily. Whereas my prince, if I do not intervene first, will bring upon my agonized end. On the other hand, Snow White was "killed" by an apple, which, in my mind, is not the best way to go, either. And then she was revived while still "dead" in her coffin, by the kiss of her prince.
Prince Kouga may not be the sharpest weapon in the armory, but even HE is not clueless (or desperate) enough to kiss a corpse. Aside from everything else, that story has always seemed a bit too morbid and revolting for my tastes. I suppose I am rather glad I did not become another Snow White.
And. . . at least Yura had the forethought to add, while she was phrasing her "gift", that my hair would never be horribly knotted. I could have been strangled as a babe or smothered to death under my deadly locks but for the condition that my hair would never tangle, never snarl, never twist into some hideous knot. As it is, I have never had a tangle in my life.
Which is indeed, a very good thing, as the Witch has never bothered to supply me with a brush.
Amazingly, my hair will naturally untangle itself even out of the messiest situations. Why, I daresay I could even retire to bed with wet hair, not that I would ever wish to. Were I foolish enough to do THAT, my hair would soak the bed and I would probably end up quite ill. I have no intention of playing the sickly maid - that would only bring about more trouble. Rumors of my illness would spread through the land, and princes would be popping up left and right, confident that they would cure me and win my hand. I am certain countless of them would bring golden apples that reputedly cured every and all illnesses.
Once they beheld my beauty, they would immediately fall under the power of the Histories, and adore me. And then I would be back to the very same dilemma that I am in presently. Although, I am quite sure a legion of suitors would be far more difficult to hide from the Witch than just one.
I slip on my kimono, tying the obi in deft, swift motions, despite the ebony locks that get in the way. When you have been doing this practically all your life with only a guidebook on how to tie an obi, you learn pretty quickly.
Outside, I hear a telltale whirlwind coming closer, along with the sounds of pounding paws on earth. Prince Kouga has arrived to court me once again.
I peer out the window. Ah, yes. There he is, standing below with his hands on his hips, ponytail thrown back to play in the wind. Kouga's wolves settle down panting, knowing they will be here for quite a while. We all know this dance well enough by now.
"Kagome, my love! Good morning." He smiles up at me, fangs flashing.
I sigh, wishing I could just tell him to leave, but I have a few books on etiquette among the other volumes, and good manners deigns me to return the greeting. "Good morning to you too, Prince Kouga."
"Kagome, how many times have I told you? As my woman, there is no need for you to be so formal." His eyes implore me, lightening-blue in their intensity. "Forget my titles, forget everything else. What do they matter? Standing here before you, I am but a man in love."
I sigh again, barely hiding a wince. And so it all begins once more. It is up to me to direct the Prince and I across the floor of our fate each day so that our last dance ends before the sun touches the western horizon. It is never easy guiding our steps with so much caution - be it the first time or the hundredth - and I grow weary of our seemingly-endless waltz.
I cannot stay in this tower forever. I have been successful in keeping Kouga a secret from the Witch and vice versa. But for how long? I cannot expect for things to continue on as death-free as they have.
No. I shall have to escape on my own.
Sounds simple enough, but there is a slight problem. The Witch has made sure I have no means of leaving the tower - not without assistance, anyway.
I would just tie my sheets together to use as a rope. . . if I actually owned more than one. I would cut off my hair and use that as a ladder. . . if I had scissors or anything sharp. I would sew all of my fabric together. . . if I possessed a needle and thread. I am woefully lacking in the proper tools for fleeing - which is the entire point, I believe.
It has always seemed a bit unfair to me that so many girls in other tales receive some sort of assistance, whereas I have none. Nothing. Zip. Very well, so perhaps my life - the beginning and middle of it, anyway - is not as harsh as theirs, but what about the ending? The conclusion of my story results with my DEATH! Is THAT just? I think not.
Look at Koharu, for instance. She is the most recent girl to have played out the role of the classic Cinderella story. Yes, her life was certainly very hard. Forced to work from dawn until dusk, covered in grim and soot. But when she matured into a lovely young maid, she was whisked away by HER handsome prince. Now, granted, she deserved some happiness in her life, but I sincerely doubt that she could have achieved her new status as princess (and later, queen) without that crazy lady with the wand. And mice. That is right. Koharu had outside help!
Her tale involves a fairy godmother, whereas mine does not even hint at one. I believe that is quite unreasonable. I have no fairy godmother, nor have I even a godmother. I have a mother, if you can call the Witch that, and someone had to have brought me into this world, I suppose. I have no information on the actual woman who gave birth to me, however. The Histories long ago decided my kind of story needed no detailed mention of my true parents, and so I have never read anything essential on them. I suppose I should be grateful enough at least, that they did not trade me for a few leaves of rampion.
Whatever is the case, though, the fact remains that I am not allowed a fairy godmother - though for some reason the Histories saw it fit to send three foolish fairies (out of the total four) to my crib. Very well. So it was not written in my life-tale for me to possess a fairy godmother. I can accept that. But if things are not bad enough, there are still many other forms of assistance being denied me!
Even going back to that creepy Snow White life-tale - one of its more recent retellings in the Histories follows the story of Princess Tsuyu. An evil queen jealous of Tsuyu's beauty cast her out of the kingdom to have her murdered by a huntsman. However, the good huntsman (who went by the name of Nobunaga) took pity on the girl, naturally, and bade her to flee into the forest. Now, things could have ended right there for the poor maid, but her story sent some men to her aid. Granted, they were quite small, but there were seven of them all the same. SEVEN! Seven persevering men working day and night just for her, heigh ho-ing all the way.
Now, whom do I have? A prince who still seems to be stuck in the dark ages, several hungry-looking wolves, and an oily-haired antagonist with a penchant for prancing about in a monkey suit.
To be sure, Princess Tsuyu did not have it easy, either - and I certainly would not want to go through with the kiss-in-death-thing myself - but in the end she was still carried off to live with her man. I also seem to remember it being noted in the Histories that she never thanked the seven loyal men. She was simply swept away on a white stallion, with nary a glance behind. No visits later on, either. No reunions, no get-togethers. Now, there is gratitude for you.
I, most assuredly, would thank any and all who would assist me.
I have brought out these two examples to plead my case, but I must point out one key part that I am wholeheartedly glad I do NOT have in common with the rest of these girls: I refuse to base my entire life's happiness on a man. Both Princess Tsuyu and Koharu's story ended with them being carried off in their beloveds' arms. I have always wondered why it must be so.
It nettles me to think that a maiden's sole joy must be centered on her ability to snare a man. Be he a knight, a tailor, a miller's son, or a prince - practically ever story pairs the girl up with someone of the masculine gender. It is as if they think we are too daft to be happy by ourselves. Then again, perhaps I am biased. I am, after all, gifted with intelligence, while the same cannot be said for my peers. I only recall one other story in which the heroine is actually stated to be wise. One.
Therefore, I must confess I am glad in a way, that my life-tale DOES hold such a wretched ending. It gives me all the more reason to ignore Kouga's fervent declarations. Now, if only I could find a way to step off this doomed path of mine.
Still, it may seem odd why I do not simply have Prince Kouga rescue me and run AWAY from the tower. One would think that with the tower out of the picture, the rest of the awful tale would disappear as well. Things are never so straightforward when the Histories are involved, I am afraid to say though.
If Prince Kouga were to release me from my imprisonment - indeed, if ANY man were to rescue me - I would be virtually impelled into falling in love with my "hero". And that would be a terrible, terrible thing. Love, I have read, is a powerful force that causes people to do very stupid things.
Witness Kouga, for that matter. I am sure he does not leave his kingdom normally on a regular basis, but ever since he has met me, he has come every day. It is actually quite irresponsible of him. His loyalty should be to his kingdom, his pack. But of course, he is in love. And when a person is in love, one cannot expect them to act logically.
If I were to fall in love with Kouga or any other rescuer, I would most definitely lose the common sense I do possess. With our lives hanging in the balance, I need all my wits about me. Who knows what brainless decisions I might make? Indeed, it is very possible that I, in my sudden passion, would invite my beloved UP to the tower, and therefore bring about the very thing I am so determined to evade.
I cannot afford to fall in love.
I do not NEED a man at all. What I NEED to do is escape.
"Kagome, I have brought you flowers. I heard women like that sort of thing."
I shake myself out of my reverie, and look down. Indeed, Prince Kouga has a cluster of wild flowers in hand. They are nice enough, and I believe I might even appreciate them were they actually of some use!
"Don't you like them, Kagome?"
My displeasure must be showing on my face. "Oh, my prince, they are lovely, but I fear I am allergic to flowers." I really am. They give me the nastiest symptoms. My eyes water, my nose itches, and I simply cannot stop sneezing.
"Well then, how about I bring you something else, tomorrow?" He tosses the blossoms off to the side, and studies what he can see of me from the small window. "Maybe I should bring you a wild boar. You're too skinny, and I need you to be strong enough to bear my pups."
I choke. Honestly, how prehistoric can one man get? He needs to stop living in the past and realize that this is the Sengoku Jidai. We are FAR more civilized than that nowadays. "Ah, Prince Kouga, I thank you for the offer, but I do not eat meat."
He scowls. "You don't?"
"Nay." I shake my head. "I have never eaten flesh in my life." This is also true. The Witch only brings fruits, vegetables, bread, and water. And, occasionally, some milk.
Kouga frowns deep in thought, looking at his feet. After a moment, his brow clears and he turns his gaze to me, his world making sense again. "That can easily be fixed, Kagome. Once I get you out of here, I'll just have to remember to feed you lots of meat. You'll get used to it, and should fatten up in no time." He grins, immensely pleased with himself.
"'Feed me lots of MEAT'?" I nearly turn green with the thought. Animals may not be my most adoring fans when it comes to my vocal skills, but they are the only friends I have. How can I ever. . . ever EAT them? Knowing that a drumstick I hold in my hand might have once been the leg of a dear, feathered companion?
I grimace, so sickened by the thought that I nearly missed the rest of his comment. Shaking myself out of my nausea, I turn alarmed eyes back down to the wolf youkai. "A moment, my prince. I fear I must have misheard you. Did you just say you were going to get me OUT of the tower?"
"Yeah," he nods. "I've been thinking about if for a while now. Since you are up there and I down here, our love cannot be consummated. Obviously, the only option is to bring you to me. I still need to think of a solution, because I can't just break the tower down - you'd be hurt if I did. But I'm sure if you'll just be patient a bit longer, I'll have you in my arms in no time."
This time I think I really AM going to be sick. My knees wobble, and I give in to the weakness.
"My love, what's wrong? Are you alright?" Kouga's voice rings out from outside.
I pull myself back up to the window, face no doubt a ghastly white. "I apologize, my prince, but I fear I am feeling a little under the weather this day. You must excuse me while I retire for a bit." I disappear from view once again, not waiting for his response.
"Are you SURE you're okay? I could always bring you some liver - that always helps my pack when they're sick."
I groan, leaning against the wall below the window. "Yes, Prince Kouga, I do not require any," I shudder, "liver. Why do you not go hunting for yourself and your wolves for a while? It is almost time for the noon meal, I believe, and you must all be hungry." Hopefully he will take the hint and give me some peace. With this newest piece of information, I need some time to clear my thoughts and review my plans.
"I guess." His voice is reluctant. "Well, if you're sure. . ."
"I am positive I shall be all right after a brief rest, my prince."
"Okay, then. . . I'll see you later."
A whirlwind whips up and fades away, as do the drumming of paws, letting me know they are gone for the moment. Finally, I allow myself to collapse completely.
Out of the TOWER? I cannot let him RESCUE me!! If I did, I would be practically throwing myself on Death's door. Better yet, why not just save on the cost of the trip and find a spindle right away? Prince Kouga CANNOT save me! I absolutely refuse to fall in love with him, and I surely will if he plays the part of my hero! No, this cannot happen! It must not.
I cover my face with my hands as a headache ensues. When I asked for help, I did not mean the type of help that will get me KILLED! Kouga has just unwittingly hastened our ultimate demise unless I do something about it right away.
I need to escape and I need to escape NOW.
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A/N: First of all, like I said up top, this story is influenced, in part, by "Goose Chase" by Patrice Kindl and "The Fairy Godmother" by Mercedes Lackey.
"Goose Chase" is a wonderful book, and I guess I'm basing this fic in terms of general things, such as tone and humor for the most part. As much as I love the book and want to read it again, I am restraining myself, as I do not wish to inadvertently start copying the actual ideas and words.
From, "The Fairy Godmother", I am borrowing the idea of "Tradition" (and all that it entails), in here simply known as the Histories. Going with that, I borrowed the concept of damsels falling in love with their rescuers, and the specifications that Kagome would not have any tangled hair.
Secondly, I have borrowed the ideas of Cinderella's fairy godmother being outside help - and consequently how she only has a mother - and seven dwarfs working day and night for Snow White, from the song "Happily Ever After" from the musical "Once Upon A Mattress".
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::Sighs:: As for readers of TYRTM - I'm really sorry chapter 16 is taking so long in the making, truly I am. I know I said that this story wouldn't be updated again very soon, and I totally intended on working on chapter 16 of TYRTM right after, but. . . TYRTM's Kagome is remaining fairly silent right now, while the Kagome of this story keeps chattering to me. And who am I to question when a plot bunny does attack?
I DO intend to focus on chapter 16 after this. . . I'll see if I can get it finished within. . . two weeks? ::Hides::
Hope everyone enjoyed this second chapter as much as they did the first!
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::Cracks knuckles::
Alrightie, then. On to the review responses!!
Wow, so many reviews from people I know!! ::Feels a bit overwhelmed:: Thank you, everyone, for reviewing!
Evilblackcat - Well. . . ::points to the summary:: Since it says, "IYKA" as the pairing. . . I'm pretty sure Inuyasha is going to be in this story. ::Winks:: And you're right - I can't really see Inu as an smooth Don Juan, either. Don't worry about that. I've his part figured out. It's the other things. . .
Dini - Well, you asked for more. . .
The Purple Ghost - Hee! I'm glad we both like fairy tales, then! And from the looks of it, you're planning on writing an interesting IY fairy tale fic yourself. I look forward to reading it when it comes out! And, if you're looking for more IY stories with fairy-tale twists, I do know that Zeh Wulf also has a new story out, called "Without Words". It's based on the original litter mermaid tale.
Wackoramaco87 - Yes! Another person who has read "Goose Chase"!! It's such a wonderful story! I love the way the story is told, I love the humor involved. Hence why I have still successfully managed to stay away from it in the library, lest I REALLY start to copy the ideas. . .
Nokomarie the Snake - Well, I guess you didn't have to wait very long for another chapter, after all. . . ::Laughs:: Inuyasha slamming face-first into the tower wall? It's certainly a funny guess, but. . . hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Cataluna - I'm still kind of in shock that you read my story. . . thank you very much for the compliment! I hope this story continues to delight!
The Literary Dragon - Hee, yes, I did read "The Fairy Godmother", and I did like it. . . but - I think you should read "Goose Chase"!! It's even better! Who else from the IY cast in going to show up? Well, so far, there's been Kikyou, Kouga, Naraku, Yura, Tsuyu-hime, Nobanaga, Koharu. . . the main cast will eventually all be introduced. . . hopefully, along with plenty of minor ones, I believe.
Sweet little country girl - ::Laughs:: Yes, I did have a lot of fun writing this. Like I said before, this is really just supposed to be a fun story in general. . . unless I suddenly get attacked by an angst bunny. . . o.O
Sashlea - Oh, then you should definitely read "Goose Chase" by Patrice Kindl. It's such an awesome book! (Have I said that enough times to enough people?)
Jenna - Thank you very much! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.
Midoriko-sama - Mido-chan!! Aww. . . I'm sorry the error thing at GT ate your comment. . . you want to know a secret, though? ::Whispers:: All you have to do in those cases, is to just refresh the page. It usually works. For myself, I copy the message just to be safe. This way, if I really do lose the post, I can always just re-post, you know? Thanks for your suggestions - I'll keep them in mind. And my Honors Senior English class had to read Dante. . . so many levels!!
I think that's it! ::Stretches:: Once again, a big thank-you to everyone who read and reviewed!!
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Bleh. I'm sick. The stress has been building for the past two weeks, and the result is that I have come down with a cold. Knowing my luck, it'll be a full-blown fever by tomorrow. ::Grumbles:: If you guys never hear from me again, you'll know the reason. . .
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Hi everyone! I've decided to start the same thing here at TD as I have at TYRTM. Here's this chapter's "Fic of the Week"! Please note that none of the future stories I list below are chosen because the author has asked me to, or anything like that. Said stories are chosen because they are all wonderful, but for some reason or another (lack of exposure, bad timing, etc.) don't have as many people aware of the story. Or, it could just be that just I really, really love a story and want to share it with the world! Or it could be all those reasons!
I'd also like to add that suggesting fics for future "Fics of the Week" is perfectly fine. However, I will be focusing mainly on good stories that are NOT as well-known. Moreover, if I have already recommended a story by a certain author, I will NOT be recommending any other stories by that same author. At least, not for a while, because I'd like to give other authors a chance as well.
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This week's selection is "The Twilight Struggle" by DQBunny. Summary: Five years after Naraku's defeat, those who fought the war for the Shikon no Tama are drawn unwillingly into the wars that mark the Sengoku Jidai.
I am ashamed to say I haven't even had time to review for her yet (I've been so busy), but I wanted to share this story with everyone.
The summary may make it sound like another Naraku's-defeated-so-now-what-do-we-do kind of fic, right? Well, this story is so much more than that! She only has 6 chapters up at the moment (the first being a prologue), but they are so fascinating, and so well written that when I first came upon the fic, I was supposed to have been studying for a Japanese exam, but instead I was glued to the computer screen instead.
I love the way she deals with Inuyasha and Kagome's relationship. It's so touching and sweet. . . and I won't say anything more beyond that.
I have learned an important lesson from That Nanda, though, and I would like to warn everyone right away that this story DOES involve a character death. . . it's not a main character, per se. . . but. . . just be prepared, everyone.
In any case, I hope everyone gives this story a try, and DQbunny - I hope you don't mind me putting you in the spot!
By Squeakyinuears
Disclaimer: I own an Inuyasha plushie. . . but even then. . . ::sighs:: . . . it just isn't the same thing as owning the real Inuyasha.
Pre-A/N: This newest story is influenced, in part, by "Goose Chase," by Patrice Kindl, and "The Fairy Godmother" by Mercedes Lackey, neither of which, I own.
This chapter borrowed some ideas from the song, "Happily Ever After" from the delightful musical, "Once Upon a Mattress". More information as to which ideas were borrowed will be given at the end of this chapter.
Additional Note: The Princess Tsuyu mentioned in this chapter appears in volume 3 of the Inuyasha manga and episode 8 of the anime. The girl Koharu, mentioned in this chapter, appears in volume 15 of the Inuyasha manga and episodes 41-42 of the anime. If you have not read/seen up to there - SPOILER for you!
My deepest thanks to Ithilwen for her comments at GT, and Kat for beta-ing this chapter and helping me brainstorm!!
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Chapter 2 - Twist of Fate
"We must never feel sorry for ourselves. No matter how bad it gets, it can always get worse." - Ever After (the book) by Wendy Loggia, based on the screenplay by Susan Grant, Andy Tennant, and Rick Parks
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"Better be wise by the misfortunes of others than by your own." - Aesop
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I have always believed with unshakable certainty that mornings are excellent times for sleeping. There is none of this business of waking up with the sun or even rising before dawn in my story, like in so many other tales. No, for my part, all that I am supposed to do is lower my hair, first for the Witch, and then for the Prince.
The former I must do, if I am to receive my daily meal, but the latter I simply refuse to see through. So long as the Prince stays outside, and I inside, we should be safe. . . for now.
The sun shines through my curtain-less window straight into my eyes. If it can do so from where I am reclining on my futon, then it must be time to rise. I stretch and yawn, and make my way nimbly over my hair that is piled every-which-way in my small, circular room. After years of dodging around potential tripping zones, I barely need to look at where I place my feet. I was not blessed with grace for nothing.
There are no birds to greet me when I open the window. None appear to help me with my chores and sing along as I begin the day. This is most likely because I cannot sing, as stated before. The animals like me well enough, I suppose, as animals go, but they tend to scatter when I clear my throat in preparation for a solo.
The very first time I sang as a small toddler, birds and rodents flocked to my window, and many other woodland creatures gathered around the tower. I cannot blame them for making assumptions on my voice. After all, I was practically perfect in every other way even then - why should I not possess a heavenly voice?
Poor things. It was quite a shock for them, therefore, when I did at last open my toddler-mouth and proceeded to scare away every living thing for miles around. As I recall, it was months before any wildlife dared to draw near the tower again.
A breeze blows in, carrying with it the fresh scent of dew and blooming flowers. I breathe in deeply, closing my eyes and lifting my face up to the sun. I adore mornings, do not mistake me. I only wish that they began later in the day, when I am fully functioning and can properly appreciate them.
This is not the first time that life has ignored my wants and desires, however, and it will not be the last. After all, did I ASK for all of this hair? No.
I suppose I shall have to give Yura some credit, though. While I will never be grateful for my hairy predicament, I must admit it could have been worse. A lot worse. She could have given me split ends. Or dandruff. Or. . . lice. Those things are infinitely much worse than just long hair.
Moreover, I almost became a pale-skinned Snow White myself. I had all the qualifications of one, at first. Black hair, red lips, long eyelashes. . . As for the skin - all that had to be done was to keep me away from any sunshine and voila, one translucent girl is made. But luckily (or unluckily), the last fairy gave me long hair, and my life was sent spinning off in another direction - another tale.
I am still debating as to which fate is the worst off. On the one hand, the original Snow White was carried off by her Prince Charming, no doubt to live contentedly ever after, if not happily. Whereas my prince, if I do not intervene first, will bring upon my agonized end. On the other hand, Snow White was "killed" by an apple, which, in my mind, is not the best way to go, either. And then she was revived while still "dead" in her coffin, by the kiss of her prince.
Prince Kouga may not be the sharpest weapon in the armory, but even HE is not clueless (or desperate) enough to kiss a corpse. Aside from everything else, that story has always seemed a bit too morbid and revolting for my tastes. I suppose I am rather glad I did not become another Snow White.
And. . . at least Yura had the forethought to add, while she was phrasing her "gift", that my hair would never be horribly knotted. I could have been strangled as a babe or smothered to death under my deadly locks but for the condition that my hair would never tangle, never snarl, never twist into some hideous knot. As it is, I have never had a tangle in my life.
Which is indeed, a very good thing, as the Witch has never bothered to supply me with a brush.
Amazingly, my hair will naturally untangle itself even out of the messiest situations. Why, I daresay I could even retire to bed with wet hair, not that I would ever wish to. Were I foolish enough to do THAT, my hair would soak the bed and I would probably end up quite ill. I have no intention of playing the sickly maid - that would only bring about more trouble. Rumors of my illness would spread through the land, and princes would be popping up left and right, confident that they would cure me and win my hand. I am certain countless of them would bring golden apples that reputedly cured every and all illnesses.
Once they beheld my beauty, they would immediately fall under the power of the Histories, and adore me. And then I would be back to the very same dilemma that I am in presently. Although, I am quite sure a legion of suitors would be far more difficult to hide from the Witch than just one.
I slip on my kimono, tying the obi in deft, swift motions, despite the ebony locks that get in the way. When you have been doing this practically all your life with only a guidebook on how to tie an obi, you learn pretty quickly.
Outside, I hear a telltale whirlwind coming closer, along with the sounds of pounding paws on earth. Prince Kouga has arrived to court me once again.
I peer out the window. Ah, yes. There he is, standing below with his hands on his hips, ponytail thrown back to play in the wind. Kouga's wolves settle down panting, knowing they will be here for quite a while. We all know this dance well enough by now.
"Kagome, my love! Good morning." He smiles up at me, fangs flashing.
I sigh, wishing I could just tell him to leave, but I have a few books on etiquette among the other volumes, and good manners deigns me to return the greeting. "Good morning to you too, Prince Kouga."
"Kagome, how many times have I told you? As my woman, there is no need for you to be so formal." His eyes implore me, lightening-blue in their intensity. "Forget my titles, forget everything else. What do they matter? Standing here before you, I am but a man in love."
I sigh again, barely hiding a wince. And so it all begins once more. It is up to me to direct the Prince and I across the floor of our fate each day so that our last dance ends before the sun touches the western horizon. It is never easy guiding our steps with so much caution - be it the first time or the hundredth - and I grow weary of our seemingly-endless waltz.
I cannot stay in this tower forever. I have been successful in keeping Kouga a secret from the Witch and vice versa. But for how long? I cannot expect for things to continue on as death-free as they have.
No. I shall have to escape on my own.
Sounds simple enough, but there is a slight problem. The Witch has made sure I have no means of leaving the tower - not without assistance, anyway.
I would just tie my sheets together to use as a rope. . . if I actually owned more than one. I would cut off my hair and use that as a ladder. . . if I had scissors or anything sharp. I would sew all of my fabric together. . . if I possessed a needle and thread. I am woefully lacking in the proper tools for fleeing - which is the entire point, I believe.
It has always seemed a bit unfair to me that so many girls in other tales receive some sort of assistance, whereas I have none. Nothing. Zip. Very well, so perhaps my life - the beginning and middle of it, anyway - is not as harsh as theirs, but what about the ending? The conclusion of my story results with my DEATH! Is THAT just? I think not.
Look at Koharu, for instance. She is the most recent girl to have played out the role of the classic Cinderella story. Yes, her life was certainly very hard. Forced to work from dawn until dusk, covered in grim and soot. But when she matured into a lovely young maid, she was whisked away by HER handsome prince. Now, granted, she deserved some happiness in her life, but I sincerely doubt that she could have achieved her new status as princess (and later, queen) without that crazy lady with the wand. And mice. That is right. Koharu had outside help!
Her tale involves a fairy godmother, whereas mine does not even hint at one. I believe that is quite unreasonable. I have no fairy godmother, nor have I even a godmother. I have a mother, if you can call the Witch that, and someone had to have brought me into this world, I suppose. I have no information on the actual woman who gave birth to me, however. The Histories long ago decided my kind of story needed no detailed mention of my true parents, and so I have never read anything essential on them. I suppose I should be grateful enough at least, that they did not trade me for a few leaves of rampion.
Whatever is the case, though, the fact remains that I am not allowed a fairy godmother - though for some reason the Histories saw it fit to send three foolish fairies (out of the total four) to my crib. Very well. So it was not written in my life-tale for me to possess a fairy godmother. I can accept that. But if things are not bad enough, there are still many other forms of assistance being denied me!
Even going back to that creepy Snow White life-tale - one of its more recent retellings in the Histories follows the story of Princess Tsuyu. An evil queen jealous of Tsuyu's beauty cast her out of the kingdom to have her murdered by a huntsman. However, the good huntsman (who went by the name of Nobunaga) took pity on the girl, naturally, and bade her to flee into the forest. Now, things could have ended right there for the poor maid, but her story sent some men to her aid. Granted, they were quite small, but there were seven of them all the same. SEVEN! Seven persevering men working day and night just for her, heigh ho-ing all the way.
Now, whom do I have? A prince who still seems to be stuck in the dark ages, several hungry-looking wolves, and an oily-haired antagonist with a penchant for prancing about in a monkey suit.
To be sure, Princess Tsuyu did not have it easy, either - and I certainly would not want to go through with the kiss-in-death-thing myself - but in the end she was still carried off to live with her man. I also seem to remember it being noted in the Histories that she never thanked the seven loyal men. She was simply swept away on a white stallion, with nary a glance behind. No visits later on, either. No reunions, no get-togethers. Now, there is gratitude for you.
I, most assuredly, would thank any and all who would assist me.
I have brought out these two examples to plead my case, but I must point out one key part that I am wholeheartedly glad I do NOT have in common with the rest of these girls: I refuse to base my entire life's happiness on a man. Both Princess Tsuyu and Koharu's story ended with them being carried off in their beloveds' arms. I have always wondered why it must be so.
It nettles me to think that a maiden's sole joy must be centered on her ability to snare a man. Be he a knight, a tailor, a miller's son, or a prince - practically ever story pairs the girl up with someone of the masculine gender. It is as if they think we are too daft to be happy by ourselves. Then again, perhaps I am biased. I am, after all, gifted with intelligence, while the same cannot be said for my peers. I only recall one other story in which the heroine is actually stated to be wise. One.
Therefore, I must confess I am glad in a way, that my life-tale DOES hold such a wretched ending. It gives me all the more reason to ignore Kouga's fervent declarations. Now, if only I could find a way to step off this doomed path of mine.
Still, it may seem odd why I do not simply have Prince Kouga rescue me and run AWAY from the tower. One would think that with the tower out of the picture, the rest of the awful tale would disappear as well. Things are never so straightforward when the Histories are involved, I am afraid to say though.
If Prince Kouga were to release me from my imprisonment - indeed, if ANY man were to rescue me - I would be virtually impelled into falling in love with my "hero". And that would be a terrible, terrible thing. Love, I have read, is a powerful force that causes people to do very stupid things.
Witness Kouga, for that matter. I am sure he does not leave his kingdom normally on a regular basis, but ever since he has met me, he has come every day. It is actually quite irresponsible of him. His loyalty should be to his kingdom, his pack. But of course, he is in love. And when a person is in love, one cannot expect them to act logically.
If I were to fall in love with Kouga or any other rescuer, I would most definitely lose the common sense I do possess. With our lives hanging in the balance, I need all my wits about me. Who knows what brainless decisions I might make? Indeed, it is very possible that I, in my sudden passion, would invite my beloved UP to the tower, and therefore bring about the very thing I am so determined to evade.
I cannot afford to fall in love.
I do not NEED a man at all. What I NEED to do is escape.
"Kagome, I have brought you flowers. I heard women like that sort of thing."
I shake myself out of my reverie, and look down. Indeed, Prince Kouga has a cluster of wild flowers in hand. They are nice enough, and I believe I might even appreciate them were they actually of some use!
"Don't you like them, Kagome?"
My displeasure must be showing on my face. "Oh, my prince, they are lovely, but I fear I am allergic to flowers." I really am. They give me the nastiest symptoms. My eyes water, my nose itches, and I simply cannot stop sneezing.
"Well then, how about I bring you something else, tomorrow?" He tosses the blossoms off to the side, and studies what he can see of me from the small window. "Maybe I should bring you a wild boar. You're too skinny, and I need you to be strong enough to bear my pups."
I choke. Honestly, how prehistoric can one man get? He needs to stop living in the past and realize that this is the Sengoku Jidai. We are FAR more civilized than that nowadays. "Ah, Prince Kouga, I thank you for the offer, but I do not eat meat."
He scowls. "You don't?"
"Nay." I shake my head. "I have never eaten flesh in my life." This is also true. The Witch only brings fruits, vegetables, bread, and water. And, occasionally, some milk.
Kouga frowns deep in thought, looking at his feet. After a moment, his brow clears and he turns his gaze to me, his world making sense again. "That can easily be fixed, Kagome. Once I get you out of here, I'll just have to remember to feed you lots of meat. You'll get used to it, and should fatten up in no time." He grins, immensely pleased with himself.
"'Feed me lots of MEAT'?" I nearly turn green with the thought. Animals may not be my most adoring fans when it comes to my vocal skills, but they are the only friends I have. How can I ever. . . ever EAT them? Knowing that a drumstick I hold in my hand might have once been the leg of a dear, feathered companion?
I grimace, so sickened by the thought that I nearly missed the rest of his comment. Shaking myself out of my nausea, I turn alarmed eyes back down to the wolf youkai. "A moment, my prince. I fear I must have misheard you. Did you just say you were going to get me OUT of the tower?"
"Yeah," he nods. "I've been thinking about if for a while now. Since you are up there and I down here, our love cannot be consummated. Obviously, the only option is to bring you to me. I still need to think of a solution, because I can't just break the tower down - you'd be hurt if I did. But I'm sure if you'll just be patient a bit longer, I'll have you in my arms in no time."
This time I think I really AM going to be sick. My knees wobble, and I give in to the weakness.
"My love, what's wrong? Are you alright?" Kouga's voice rings out from outside.
I pull myself back up to the window, face no doubt a ghastly white. "I apologize, my prince, but I fear I am feeling a little under the weather this day. You must excuse me while I retire for a bit." I disappear from view once again, not waiting for his response.
"Are you SURE you're okay? I could always bring you some liver - that always helps my pack when they're sick."
I groan, leaning against the wall below the window. "Yes, Prince Kouga, I do not require any," I shudder, "liver. Why do you not go hunting for yourself and your wolves for a while? It is almost time for the noon meal, I believe, and you must all be hungry." Hopefully he will take the hint and give me some peace. With this newest piece of information, I need some time to clear my thoughts and review my plans.
"I guess." His voice is reluctant. "Well, if you're sure. . ."
"I am positive I shall be all right after a brief rest, my prince."
"Okay, then. . . I'll see you later."
A whirlwind whips up and fades away, as do the drumming of paws, letting me know they are gone for the moment. Finally, I allow myself to collapse completely.
Out of the TOWER? I cannot let him RESCUE me!! If I did, I would be practically throwing myself on Death's door. Better yet, why not just save on the cost of the trip and find a spindle right away? Prince Kouga CANNOT save me! I absolutely refuse to fall in love with him, and I surely will if he plays the part of my hero! No, this cannot happen! It must not.
I cover my face with my hands as a headache ensues. When I asked for help, I did not mean the type of help that will get me KILLED! Kouga has just unwittingly hastened our ultimate demise unless I do something about it right away.
I need to escape and I need to escape NOW.
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A/N: First of all, like I said up top, this story is influenced, in part, by "Goose Chase" by Patrice Kindl and "The Fairy Godmother" by Mercedes Lackey.
"Goose Chase" is a wonderful book, and I guess I'm basing this fic in terms of general things, such as tone and humor for the most part. As much as I love the book and want to read it again, I am restraining myself, as I do not wish to inadvertently start copying the actual ideas and words.
From, "The Fairy Godmother", I am borrowing the idea of "Tradition" (and all that it entails), in here simply known as the Histories. Going with that, I borrowed the concept of damsels falling in love with their rescuers, and the specifications that Kagome would not have any tangled hair.
Secondly, I have borrowed the ideas of Cinderella's fairy godmother being outside help - and consequently how she only has a mother - and seven dwarfs working day and night for Snow White, from the song "Happily Ever After" from the musical "Once Upon A Mattress".
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::Sighs:: As for readers of TYRTM - I'm really sorry chapter 16 is taking so long in the making, truly I am. I know I said that this story wouldn't be updated again very soon, and I totally intended on working on chapter 16 of TYRTM right after, but. . . TYRTM's Kagome is remaining fairly silent right now, while the Kagome of this story keeps chattering to me. And who am I to question when a plot bunny does attack?
I DO intend to focus on chapter 16 after this. . . I'll see if I can get it finished within. . . two weeks? ::Hides::
Hope everyone enjoyed this second chapter as much as they did the first!
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::Cracks knuckles::
Alrightie, then. On to the review responses!!
Wow, so many reviews from people I know!! ::Feels a bit overwhelmed:: Thank you, everyone, for reviewing!
Evilblackcat - Well. . . ::points to the summary:: Since it says, "IYKA" as the pairing. . . I'm pretty sure Inuyasha is going to be in this story. ::Winks:: And you're right - I can't really see Inu as an smooth Don Juan, either. Don't worry about that. I've his part figured out. It's the other things. . .
Dini - Well, you asked for more. . .
The Purple Ghost - Hee! I'm glad we both like fairy tales, then! And from the looks of it, you're planning on writing an interesting IY fairy tale fic yourself. I look forward to reading it when it comes out! And, if you're looking for more IY stories with fairy-tale twists, I do know that Zeh Wulf also has a new story out, called "Without Words". It's based on the original litter mermaid tale.
Wackoramaco87 - Yes! Another person who has read "Goose Chase"!! It's such a wonderful story! I love the way the story is told, I love the humor involved. Hence why I have still successfully managed to stay away from it in the library, lest I REALLY start to copy the ideas. . .
Nokomarie the Snake - Well, I guess you didn't have to wait very long for another chapter, after all. . . ::Laughs:: Inuyasha slamming face-first into the tower wall? It's certainly a funny guess, but. . . hope you enjoyed this chapter!
Cataluna - I'm still kind of in shock that you read my story. . . thank you very much for the compliment! I hope this story continues to delight!
The Literary Dragon - Hee, yes, I did read "The Fairy Godmother", and I did like it. . . but - I think you should read "Goose Chase"!! It's even better! Who else from the IY cast in going to show up? Well, so far, there's been Kikyou, Kouga, Naraku, Yura, Tsuyu-hime, Nobanaga, Koharu. . . the main cast will eventually all be introduced. . . hopefully, along with plenty of minor ones, I believe.
Sweet little country girl - ::Laughs:: Yes, I did have a lot of fun writing this. Like I said before, this is really just supposed to be a fun story in general. . . unless I suddenly get attacked by an angst bunny. . . o.O
Sashlea - Oh, then you should definitely read "Goose Chase" by Patrice Kindl. It's such an awesome book! (Have I said that enough times to enough people?)
Jenna - Thank you very much! I hope you enjoyed this chapter as well.
Midoriko-sama - Mido-chan!! Aww. . . I'm sorry the error thing at GT ate your comment. . . you want to know a secret, though? ::Whispers:: All you have to do in those cases, is to just refresh the page. It usually works. For myself, I copy the message just to be safe. This way, if I really do lose the post, I can always just re-post, you know? Thanks for your suggestions - I'll keep them in mind. And my Honors Senior English class had to read Dante. . . so many levels!!
I think that's it! ::Stretches:: Once again, a big thank-you to everyone who read and reviewed!!
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Bleh. I'm sick. The stress has been building for the past two weeks, and the result is that I have come down with a cold. Knowing my luck, it'll be a full-blown fever by tomorrow. ::Grumbles:: If you guys never hear from me again, you'll know the reason. . .
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Hi everyone! I've decided to start the same thing here at TD as I have at TYRTM. Here's this chapter's "Fic of the Week"! Please note that none of the future stories I list below are chosen because the author has asked me to, or anything like that. Said stories are chosen because they are all wonderful, but for some reason or another (lack of exposure, bad timing, etc.) don't have as many people aware of the story. Or, it could just be that just I really, really love a story and want to share it with the world! Or it could be all those reasons!
I'd also like to add that suggesting fics for future "Fics of the Week" is perfectly fine. However, I will be focusing mainly on good stories that are NOT as well-known. Moreover, if I have already recommended a story by a certain author, I will NOT be recommending any other stories by that same author. At least, not for a while, because I'd like to give other authors a chance as well.
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This week's selection is "The Twilight Struggle" by DQBunny. Summary: Five years after Naraku's defeat, those who fought the war for the Shikon no Tama are drawn unwillingly into the wars that mark the Sengoku Jidai.
I am ashamed to say I haven't even had time to review for her yet (I've been so busy), but I wanted to share this story with everyone.
The summary may make it sound like another Naraku's-defeated-so-now-what-do-we-do kind of fic, right? Well, this story is so much more than that! She only has 6 chapters up at the moment (the first being a prologue), but they are so fascinating, and so well written that when I first came upon the fic, I was supposed to have been studying for a Japanese exam, but instead I was glued to the computer screen instead.
I love the way she deals with Inuyasha and Kagome's relationship. It's so touching and sweet. . . and I won't say anything more beyond that.
I have learned an important lesson from That Nanda, though, and I would like to warn everyone right away that this story DOES involve a character death. . . it's not a main character, per se. . . but. . . just be prepared, everyone.
In any case, I hope everyone gives this story a try, and DQbunny - I hope you don't mind me putting you in the spot!