Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha! All credit goes to Rumiko Takahashi!

Chapter song: Afraid - The Neighborhood.

Warning: Not for people who are team InuKag or Team InuKik. I usually don't bash, but this story is an exception.

OK, let's get this show on the road! Yafuuu!


Koniro.

The sun sat midway in the sky by the time a girl in a sailorfuku emerged from the old mossy well in the middle of a grassy field. After climbing out of the portal between the two worlds, she'd always sit on the edge to think about all that had happened to her since that fateful day that she fell into past, and how she arrived into to the world of demons.

She gazed up at the magnificent hues of gold for a while, until a pair of blue butterflies at play stole her attention. She smiled as the butterflies fluttered in and out of the slow waves of emerald green across from the Bone Eater's well. Her eyes followed the butterflies as they descended near the roots of the great Goshinboku (Sacred Tree).

The great landmark towered over the surrounding trees under the golden glow of the sun overhead. The higher branches of Gosinboku granted shade to its lesser cousins. Heavy limbs bore masses of leaves that varied in jade hues. Jade light passed through the thin translucent leaves and touched the moss covered roots below.

The great tangled curves of the raised chestnut roots filled her with admiration. The origins blended well with the vibrant mocha colored soil from which they emerged. Amber light curtained the glistening bark and revealed the various minerals that the tree contained.

Kagome's violet eyes traced over the handsomely engorged trunk of the tree. Her emotions weighed heavy at the shadowy imprint of the Hanyo in the heart of the Goshinboku. It took her back to when she first laid eyes on /him/.

"Kagome."

The breeze whispered in the form of his voice, almost as if he was there. Kagome turned her face away, but the wind caressed her face like hands and brought her vision back to the tree. As if by magic her memories came to life in front of her. She viewed him pinned once again to Goshinboku's full trunk.

Overgrowth and the arrow put there by his dead lover restrained him to the tree. The scene caused her heart to skip a beat. The rippling winds disturbed the clad red kimono and prayer beads around his neck. His long gray tresses fluttered softly in the cold breeze and crossed the somber expression on his face. The scene brought moisture to her eyes and caused her breath to hitch. '

The memory was so vivid that it brought Kagome out of the past and into the present with a start. She glanced back at the tree with frightened eyes, only to find that the Hanyo was gone. Kagome jumped to her feet and paced in the grass across from the tree. A sigh fell from her lips as she glanced down at the short green skirt against her thighs.

A howl rode the whispers of the wind around Kagome. Her pacing ceased, her mind remembered the primal song of the wolf that claimed her. The impression he left on her was hard to forget, especially after all the trouble he caused.

At the same time, Kagome realized that the possessive attitudes of the men in this era seemed to be similar at the root of everything. Her eyes turned to clash with the sun's light. Her nightshade tresses twisted against her back. She tried to catch one of the stray leaves that floated down near the well.

Was it too much to ask for an end to these painful memories? Kagome wished they would already, for just as suddenly as she felt them fade, the more intense and painful memories surfaced. Her heart ached as she curled her hands against her abdomen.

Her stomach turned itself into knots with each thought. A sense of dread flooded her as she thought about the Priestess Kikyo and how she would deceive Inuyasha this time.

Oh, Inuyasha. Why is he so weak? Kagome thought.

How can he be so easily swayed by her? Don't I matter at all, to him?

Inuyasha, there were countless times she recalled him getting angry with her for just for connecting Kikyo's habits to Naraku's terroristic plots. A part of herself always encouraged her to wait and see rather than risk Inuyasha's temper by chasing her ideas, but she never listened.

Maybe I should mention it to the others. Though, thought Kagome, what if Inu decides to turn to Kikyo for real this time? Let's say he does revolt and leave, how would we track Naraku? Oh Kami, give me an answer? she begged.

Kagome knew the dead priestess wasn't out and about merely stealing souls. No, she felt it was much more than that. Kikyo, the ex-priestess was up to something far more sinister.

Inu, he runs to her just to spite me anyway, why should I care? He only cares about himself after all. His only thoughts are with Kikyo, just her. she reminded herself.

Kagome knew how dangerous empty suspicions were. One wrong utterance could land her group into severe trouble and provide Naraku the advantage he sought, but Kagome doubted Inuyasha cared.

Kagome hummed a small tune to ease her internal frustration. Her head hung back, and her bright violet eyes gazed at the thick peach clouds that waltzed across the smooth apricot sky.

Maybe she loves him, and I'm the one who is wrong. Perhaps she needs him, and he, her. Just leave it, Kagome. Kagome sighed.

She inhales the musky scent of the forest around her, starting to calm down as the fluffs of vapors slowly escape behind the extraordinary violet mountains.

Often at times, Kagome fantasized about being the clouds and escaping from the night as it swallowed everything in its wake. Rather than focusing on things she felt were out of her control, her thoughts drift to her surroundings. She concentrated on the feeling of her hair dancing in the wind, fresh air rushed through the wavy strands to cool her scalp. Her ears picked up the sound of chimes that drew closer, reminding her of the small shrines and open temples she would pass on her way home from school.

"Lady Kagome-sama, where have you been? I've, I mean the group has been waiting for you since morn!" A deep voice asked with concern.

It is Miroku's majestic voice that pierced into her thoughts like an arrow and shattered them. Her soft violet eyes turned to address his cool navy ones as he drew closer to her. He inclined his head at her thoughtful expression.

Such is the beauty of this maiden, Miroku mused, liken to the purity of the moon at its fullest.

He adored the way her face shined with a benevolent glow. He found her expression somewhat childish as she stared at him fondly. Her appearances were something that he perceived to be cute and endearing. Her bright eyes reminded him of a baby kitten's. The spring's end leaves fell around the two as the monk knitted his thin eyebrows together and pushed his distracting thoughts away.

"Eh? Miroku-san? It's quite late already, isn't it? Where are Sango, Shippo, and Inuyasha?"

Miroku combed his sleek black hair with his fingers and turned his handsome face up to the darkening sky above. Kagome's violet eyes glistened as she stared down at the flowers in the field, her right-hand played with a few soft strands of her hair.

Miroku came for her, after waiting all morning for her to show. Being here with her, alone, sparked something urgent within him. He longed for her to be honest with him as he returned his gaze to her, but she held her guarded expression.

Why won't you just trust me, dear lady? Miroku wondered.

"Sango and Shippo are with Kirara back at camp. I came here wondering where you were. You left this morning and hadn't returned like you normally do. I thought I'd find you myself. And Inuyasha? He's off with, er, you know." He timidly answered as she glanced at him.

His eyes wandered over her face to judge her expression, but again she averted her gaze to the nearest flower in the field. His navy eyes shifted down to gaze at the pink petals that made up her lips, and his ears waited tentatively for an explanation.

Of course, he's with her. Kagome thought. I knew, I always knew. How can I possibly tell him about my suspicions of Kikyo and my distrust in Inuyasha? They are such close friends. Naturally, he would defend him.

Miroku's gaze weighed on Kagome and caused her to shut her mouth. Slowly she peeked at him with a modest expression.

"I needed a few hours away from camp, to empty my head. That's all. Just homesick, you know?" She smiled, though this smile was hollow and Miroku saw right through it.

Her response irked him. He couldn't understand what the girl was thinking, however, he knew Inuyasha was somehow involved. He wished he had the power to hear her thoughts, to gain some understanding of her loyalty to that undeserving dog-boy.

Kagome why do you distrust me so? Do you think me a scoundrel like that Inuyasha? Has the Hanyo damaged your heart to that extent already? Oh, lady, we are not the same. thought Miroku.

Inuyasha, the vermin. He regularly did things to annoy the poor girl. Miroku didn't know what Kagome saw in that half-demon anymore. He knew in his heart that she deserved better than that confused puppy. If Miroku didn't have Sango, Kagome would've surely been his by now.

Kagome's violet eyes fell to the open hand in front of her. She wondered what he was up to as she timidly placed her small hand on his larger one. He released a silent gasp as a surge of arousing heat flooded his body after the caress of her soft fingers to his rough ones. The purity of her power felt incredibly erotic coursed through him like wildfire, and it spread straight to his loins.

My body yearns for hers, thought Miroku, but alas I cannot indulge. Kagome's fragility is my prime concern at the moment. Should I force my feelings at this point, it will damage our relationship. Oh Lady Kagome, my heart is bound by strings that your fingers pull none too delicately. I fear I may not be able to bear your unintentional teasing any longer. The fire of his internal thoughts seared him.

"Come let's not keep them waiting any longer. Allow me to escort you, dear lady." He smiled, his voice sounded a tad husky to her. Kagome stared with an expression of confusion. The gentleness of this monk perplexed her, but she allowed him to help her off her perch. Miroku moved off to the side with his hand pressed against his chest.

Is this your attempt at being a gentleman, Miroku-san? You always try to rescue me, like a big brother. Thank you, this eases me more than you will ever know. She praised inwardly with a soft smile.

Kagome slipped her yellow backpack on and patted the dirt off her pleated green skirt before tailing the retreating monk. She viewed his back as they started off toward camp. The jangle of Miroku's shakujō reminded her of old shrines she would pass on the way home from school. Fluttery giggles flew from her lips at his little stubble of a ponytail. It reminded her of a puppy dog tail.


Later.

The pair had been walking in the flowering field for a little over than ten minutes now when Kagome's thoughts of home distracted her. She tripped over a stone with a yelp. Miroku incidentally spun around to the noise just as Kagome to fell. She landed straight in his arms. She raised her head from his chest and looked up at him, only to find her lips inches from his. Temptation rose, for one of them.

Kagome's eyes flew open, she averted her gaze and tried to pull away. Something hard brushed against her thigh, earning Miroku a gasp. She forced herself not to look down, frightened by what she thought was touching her.

I swear to Kami Miroku, Kagome thought, that better not be what I think it is!

A soft red tint washed over Kagome's cheeks as she began to squirm in his hold. Miroku, however, was too busy inhaling the sweet strawberry scent of her hair to care. He held her tighter to his chest enjoying how her thigh rubbed against his lower region. He fought the perverseness inside himself and tried to come to his senses, but it was far too tempting.

Oh Kami, not Kagome! Think of Sango-chan! Sango-chan! Sango chan's butt! he shouted inwardly.

Poor Miroku tried to visualize Sango's posterior under that clad black slayer suit she wore under her clothes, but it fails in comparison to Kagome's little green skirt. The softness of her clothing under his fingertips seduced him. Sango's garb was restrictive and tight sure, but this outfit did little to stunt his overactive imagination when he gazed down at the sexy schoolgirl in his arms.

Right now all the gods in the heavens above couldn't stop the excitement he felt. He enjoyed her ample breasts pressed up against him in such an intimate way. Miroku's lips sought Kagome's as his hands slid down to grope her backside.

"No! Um, Miroku-san? What are you doing?" Kagome refused. She blushed madly at the man in front of her.


Inuyasha.

Inuyasha popped out of the bushes next to Goshinboku. He fixed his robe over his chest with a sated smirk. He brushed some of the dirt and left off his shoulder. Embracing Kikyo in the forest always had him covered in leaves and mud when they finished. He suddenly paused in his tracks at the scene before him.

His smug expression fell, quickly replaced by anger at the sight of Miroku with his arms intimately around Kagome. The angle that Inuyasha stood made it seem like the two were embracing sensually. Either way, it was terrible. The dog-boy quickly hid behind a nearby bush and spied on them with narrowed amber eyes.

"No! Miroku, stop it!" Kagome cried as she evaded Miroku's lips before they touched hers.

Inuyasha's eyes widened as he realized Miroku was trying to harass Kagome! Just as Miroku moved in for another kiss, she turned in his hold and jabbed her elbow into his chest. She twirled out of his arms as he cradled his sore torso. She stomped on his toe hard, and Miroku instantly sobered with a painful gasp. Inuyasha fist pumped into the air with a grin.

Atta wench, give that bastard the old one-two! he shouted joyously in his mind.

"That's whatcha get for forcing yourself onto me, Baka! Enough of this now, what if Sango-chan saw this? What do you think would happen?!" Kagome chastized.

Miroku understood and backed off her with his hands in the air, his face flushed with shame.

"I'm sorry, Lady Kagome-sama I'm such an idiot! Forgive me," begged Miroku. His hasty actions toward Kagome embarrassed him. The corners of Inuyasha's mouth pulled back wickedly, and he snickered at the idiot monk.

Good girl Kagome! Inu praised internally. I ain't calllin you a wench anymore.

Kagome quickly placed her hand on Miroku's shoulder with a sigh. The soft touch made the monk raise his head and Inuyasha's face fall.

"I know you didn't mean it Miroku-san, let's just forget about it and get going okay?"

Miroku's eyes softened as he stared down at Kagome. She moved away, but he didn't want the sensations she stirred within him to end. He grasped her shoulders and pulled her back to him. Kagome gasped, her eyes quickly glanced up at him with confusion. Over in the bush, Inuyasha gripped some twigs tightly. His claws cut into them as he glared. Nobody got touchy-feely with his woman! Nobody!

"Kagome," Miroku murmured as he tenderly brushed his fingers against her cheek. Kagome shied away from his touch in shock. She tried to pull herself away, but he wouldn't allow it.

That lecherous Miroku! BASTARD! You think you can trust a guy! Inu seethed inwardly. The bastard just can't stick to bothering the Slayer. Now he's tryna seduce Kagome! Over my dead body!

A pink haze formed in the corners of his eyes, he parted the entire bush with a swipe of his claws. In the distance, a red blot made his way over to them. Inu didn't know what he would do when he got over there, but it wouldn't be good.

"Don't say my name like that, not like that! Miroku-san, stop it! We, this can't happen!" Kagome panicked.

"Why not? Any man can see that you're hurting because of him! You're lonely, I can see it. I just want to be here for you, to show you how much more you're worth. I want to please you, is that so bad? Just let me, help you Ka-go-me." Miroku whispered earnestly in her ear.

Kagome quickly shoved him away with a fiery blush. How much did he know? Damned priest and his wicked tongue! How long had he seen her like this? Did she look that desperate to steal her friend's man? Did he dare to risk it all for her? Yes clearly, but did she dare to risk it for him? No! Higurashi women didn't steal!

"I don't need a man to make me feel important! You're no better than him if you force yourself on me. Are you forgetting Sango-chan?! You promised to marry her!" Kagome argued fiercely. Miroku charged her, and he took hold of her wrists. He leaned down leaving an inch of space or two between their lips.

"What if I'm not in love with Sango-chan? What if I never was?Maybe my heart yearned for someone else." He revealed seriously. Kagome's eyes grew wide, and her mouth fell open.

No way, no way! Just what does he mean by that? she shrieked internally.

Miroku was about to tell her the truth when Kagome turned her eyes away and shouted.

"Inuyasha!"

The demon stormed over to the humans. Miroku released Kagome who quickly moved away from him. Miroku glared at the fleabag wondering why he had to show himself now and ruin their moment.

"Miroku! What the hell are you doing here, and what are two doing together," Inu asked suspiciously.

Both girl and monk watch the demon's dirty feet crush the grass and wildflowers below them. They cringed as his foot trampled over a small woodland creature. The animal gave a sputtering cry before it succumbed to the cold grip of the afterlife.

Inuyasha stood in front of Miroku and Kagome like an angry dad who'd just caught his daughter with a thug after curfew. First, he glared at the Miroku, and then he turned his angry sights on Kagome. She remembered what Miroku told her earlier and glared right back.

The monk cleared his throat modestly as he glanced down at Kagome. She looked away from him with her hands on her hips. She mentally braced herself for Inuyasha's incoming tantrum, but Miroku wasn't about to let that happen. Now was the time to protect her, to be the man she needed. His lips joined forming a tight pout, and his navy eyes narrowed at the half-demon in front of them.

Sometimes you have to take a beating to become a hero. Miroku reminded himself.

"Understand this dog, while you were burying your bone in your hollow onna, Kagome hadn't shown up at camp. You weren't here to see to her arrival, so I came in your place! If you would've just been here like you were supposed to, then I wouldn't have to take your place!"

Inuyasha's face pinched at the word "dog." Who the fuck did this pervert think he was? Miroku quickly turned to Kagome which startled her. She was in awe at the words she'd heard. Her heart thumped loudly in her chest as she blushed at him. Inuyasha finally had enough.

Miroku went to reach for her, but he was cut-off by the clawed fist flying toward his face. The monk quickly dodged it and backed away from the demon. Inuyasha eyes didn't leave Kagome's, and his attitude toward Miroku did not surprise her in the slightest. It was mild compared to the one Koga always received.

"Listen to me ya fucking vagabond, and listen good! First off, don't talk about Kikyo like that! Second, what I do in the wench's absence is none of her or your concern! I wasn't asking you asshole. I was talking to her, so why don't you go worry about your onna and stop trying to bury your cock in mine!"

Miroku took his warning as a threat rather than a suggestion. A cold bead of sweat dripped down the side of his face. Miroku didn't like the way Inuyasha stared at Kagome. His face changed in a way that churned the fear within Miroku's stomach. He stepped between them, but Kagome stopped him. He glanced down at her as she looked up with a frown.

"Don't... just don't Miroku. You've done enough. Go ahead and give Inuyasha and me a minute. Tell Sango I'll see her later."

The monk saw the lie hidden there and knew it would be a mistake to leave her. His eyes pleaded with her, but she stood there with unwavering resistance. She was beautiful, too radiant. It hurt his pride that she wouldn't allow him to stay and fight for her sake. He gave in, and with a sigh, he honored her wish.

Miroku gazed into her eyes, they told her that he felt for her, loved her as he took the yellow pack from her. Kagome didn't respond to him for fear of her words would betray her. The monk sent Inuyasha a hateful glare. Inu's eyes rolled, and he growled at Miroku.

Get the fuck outta here already! Inu thought.

The monk spared Kagome one last glance before he turned and disappeared into the bushes. Inu waited for the monk's aura to fade. When the coast was clear, he turned his attention back to the little female in front of him.

"Alright cut the crap, you want to tell me why the hell you were alone with that pervert, Kagome?" He questioned bitterly.

Kagome shook her head with a sour smirk. She rolled her eyes rudely before looking at Inuyasha, whose lips twitched in annoyance. The black toms on her feet kicked up some blades of grass and her right hand she brushed back some of her thick dark wavy locks behind her shoulder.

"I see no reason why it should matter with who I fraternize within your absence. Awww, does it bother you? I'll try to care next time I'm alone someone else! You! Don't! Own! Me! Yasha!" She argued sassily.

You didn't come to me, Inuyasha. You felt me enter this world, but you left me waiting. she fumed internally.

Kagome's explosive attitude toward Inuyasha surprised him. He glared right back at her. He scrunched up his nose and folded his arms.

"Oh really! Keh! Next time you better be back at camp when I get there Kagome! Don't stop to smell the flowers or enjoy the damn breeze! Oh, I better not catch you alone with that pervert ever again, get me? Stay away from him Kagome, ya hear me?" Inuyasha warned. He didn't know what he would do if he found them together again.

Kagome was in pure disbelief at what she heard. It annoyed how this prick could bark off orders like she was below him or like he owned her. If Inu thought he could wag that tongue of his in any way to her, then he was dead wrong.

Kagome stepped up to him with her hand on her hip. It looked funny though because she was a few feet and some inches shorter than him. Inuyasha shuddered as her breasts brushed against him. Any male would've taken this as a seduction attempt, but his instincts took it as a challenge.

Kagome was about to correct Inuyasha when her nose picked up the scent of maple leaves, sandalwood, and oakmoss. She quickly realized it was Kikyo's scent on his clothes. She moved away from him with a look that could kill.

"Oh no, you just didn't go there! Look here Mister Two Timer! Don't tell a woman what she should do if you can't even respect her! I'll talk to anyone I damn well, please! Why don't you just go...back to Kikyo and leave me! You seemed to enjoy her company so much, maybe she can cool your hot head off," she retorted. She jabbed her finger into his chest.

Deep inside Kagome's better judgment fought with the jealousy trying to root itself into her heart. She silenced the anger that howled from the pit of her abdomen the best she could. The waves of emotions inside Kagome tore her up. She didn't know whether to cry, scream, or laugh. All the voices in her head pleaded with her to leave him and return to the well.

Inuyasha stood there with a smug expression. Kagome couldn't stand to look at him. She wanted him to go away, to leave her alone. She didn't care if he returned to Kikyo, the woman deserved his arrogant ass. Neither of them happened to notice Kikyo hiding behind Goshinboku with a grin.

"Two-timer? Tch well that's pretty big talk coming from you. As if you weren't trying to seduce Miroku, I saw you! If I didn't know any better, I'd think you liked that pervert. Tell me Kagome, were you trying to steal him away from Sango? Do you think he cares about you? He doesn't! He saw an opening that you gave him and took it. Miroku preys on weak women, that's his fetish. He'll just use you and move on! Other men will too if you keep acting like that!" Inu chastized.

"I wasn't trying to steal anyone, jerk! Are you saying I invited his behavior because I was depressed? You're making it seem like I wanted him to do it! Seriously? I have emotions you ass! I can't help that I feel a type of way! How low can you go, Inuyasha? I'll never be perfect for you will I? Not unless I act as Kikyo does, stiff and silent, then maybe you'll give me the time of day!" Kagome shot back.

"Feh, wench, do I need to remind you of who you belong? You're mine! I'm the only reason why you come back here! So what if I enjoy Kikyo, she's more obedient and doesn't have a mouth on her as you do! You're only good for one thing anyway, finding my shards that you fucking lost!" Inu snarled.

Punish her! Make the bitch submit! A dark voice in his mind shouted.

Anger had gotten the best of Inuyasha and triggered some of his demonic features. Red marks bleed across his cheeks, and his pupils faded to a sapphire color. He knew he was losing control of his inner demon. He felt it awaken when he found her alone with Miroku.

Kagome, you don't understand. he thought.

Kagome betrayed him, and his eyes couldn't forget the sight of another man's arms around her. Her rounded face, full breasts, and shapely hips. Miroku's eyed feasted upon her, but she belonged to Inuyasha. Inuyasha himself desired all of her, a part of him wanted to rip the clothes off her body and taint her right there in front of that foolish human male who dared to touch what was his.

Claim! Mark! Mate!

Inuyasha felt a bloody haze rip into his vision, and his hand flew out toward Kagome before she could retort. Inu's blood fought him for dominance. Kagome gasped as his claws gripped her upper arm. Inuyasha felt little remorse for her as his claws sunk into her skin so far that it made her cry out. Her face became pale with shock. He had just hurt her. This side of him was one she secretly feared.

"BITCH! You are mine! Everything has been about you! I've neglected Kikyo for you. She was everything to me! Don't you understand how anxious you make me? I awake every night, frightened by what's happening to me! Dammit, sometimes I just think you'd be better off dead so I wouldn't have to feel this way. It kills me to worry about your useless ass as much as I do!" He yelled in her face.

Kagome looked taken back with fear. She blinks her eyes at the demonic energy that swirled around her. She collected herself and ripped her arm from his grasp. She didn't pay the blood dripping down her arm any attention as she faced him. Inuyasha growled at the rise of spiritual power as it radiated off of her. She planted her hands right on her hips and held her chin up, with that full-on Higurashi woman attitude.

"Bitch huh? Who are you calling a bitch? Are you stupid? I don't belong to anyone! I should have left you pinned up against that damn tree! I wish I never pulled Kikyo's arrow from your chest!" Kagome screamed at him.

"What?" Inu said in a shocked tone.

"I didn't want to come between you guys but, dammit! If she loved you half as much as I did, she wouldn't have shot you. Inuyasha, don't you see? She's not helping you, and she's hurting you! I just wished you could see everything from my point of view. Where does her loyalty truly lie?" Kagome's voice lost its edge as she finished.

Kikyo rolled her eyes with a smirk. So the dumb girl was half right, not that Inuyasha would believe her anyway. Kikyo continued to keep her aura hidden as she observed the scene with mild interest. Kagome half expected Inuyasha to understand. However, she only infuriated him further. Inuyasha hated when she reminded him of his painful history with Kikyo. The question was never too far from Inuyasha's mind when he visited Kikyo on those special nights. The words faded everytime her hungry lips met his, and his eager hands found the ties of her haori.

His amber eyes always followed Kikyo's robes as they fell from her perfect body. The issue of her loyalty burned on his lips as hers touched his neck. Through the sweat, passion, and heat on the forest floor, he found the urge. He always forgot to ask her the moment he stared down into her cold brown eyes as their limbs tangled and their flesh joined. It was nobody's business, not even Kagome's. If Kikyo had betrayed him, he would've known it in his heart. Er, right?

Get away from me, while you still can! Inuyasha screamed within.

Disrespectful bitch! I shall punish her now! The demonic blood swore. Inuyasha tried to force it back, but it overtook him.

Inu looked upset at her, but just how angry, Kagome didn't know. She watched from the corner of her eye as his hand rose. A flash of white crosses her vision, followed by a stinging sensation across her cheek. Inuyasha yanked the stunned her forward by her neckerchief. Her eyes slowly opened as tears fell her face to meet Inuyasha's frightening red gaze.

"Bitch learn your place! Never EVER criticise Kikyo again," he snarled.

In fact, his voice seemed unrecognizable to Kagome. As much as she to remain numb to it all, his words cut deep. The pain throbbing of her arm added to the fire. His hand released her uniform with a short thrust. Kagome stumbled back with a look of hurt.

Kikyo closed her eyes savoring the sound of the slap. Every word from Inuyasha's lips sparked her arousal for him. She bit her lip to keep from moaning as her hand found its way into her hakama and between her thighs. She savored the shocked expression on Kagome's face. Didn't she get it? Inuyasha would never love her, not while Kikyo herself walked the earth.

Oh Inuyasha, you're mine! She will never have you. Kagome, you stupid girl. I am everything to him, while you are nothing but a mere pest. Kikyo thought. She rolled her eyes back in pure ecstasy.

I get it, now. Miroku, was this what you were trying to tell me? wondered Kagome.

Kagome clenched her eyes shut to escape his face as she covered her throbbing cheek with a hand. Tears flowed freely from her eyes in rivulets. Her heart cracked from within her chest, and the warm blood in her veins ran cold.

This is the end Inuyasha, I can't ever love you again. I know I'm not the one you wanted, but I thought you were the one I needed. she cried internally.

"I was so damn foolish for loving you as long as I did. For even loving you at all! Why did I let myself become so happy when I was around you? You couldn't have said what was on your mind earlier," whispered Kagome.

Yes! Hate him! Kikyo cried mentally.

The ex Shikon No Miko dropped down to her knees as her hand's movements intensified. She balanced herself on her other hand and arched forward slightly with her mouth open as her fingers found the smooth pearl tucked in the petals of her maiden's treasure, Though she was no maiden.

"Kagome, look," Inuyasha began remorsefully. Kagome quickly cut him off. "Shut your damn mouth! I wish I would have stayed away from you, this way it wouldn't have to hurt this much! I tried to forget you, but you kept injecting yourself into me, like a drug. You're trying to tear me apart! Why are you trying to, destroy me?"

"Is that what you think I'm trying to do to you," asked Inuyasha's human side in pure disbelief.

I could say the same about you. You're trying to kill me, with that sweet scent. Don't you see what you're doing to me? I'm afraid Kagome, I'm terrified that I can't protect you from, myself. I'm scared, too scared to breathe you in because I'll lose myself. Inuyasha lamented internally.

Kikyo dug her toes into the grass as she anticipated Kagome would punish Inuyasha. If she hurt him, then she would prove that even a pure heart like hers was vulnerable. Perhaps a particular spider's plan would be more straightforward than initially thought.

With a burst of fury, Kagome glanced up at Inuyasha with the word "sit" on the tip of her tongue. Kikyo's hand parted back the leaves of the bush she hid behind waiting for the violence to ensue.

That's it, punish him. Push his beast to the breaking point! Kikyo's mind chanted.

Kagome tried to speak, but couldn't bring herself to harm Inuyasha. He was her best friend, even if he wasn't acting like it now. It hurt her, but she wouldn't give into this hatred. Silvery tears spilled down her face as she dropped her head and submitted to him. She looked at him once more, and her eyes mirrored the realization on his face. Inuyasha's actions hit him like Windscar from Tessaiga.

His ears visibly flattened against his head ashamed as he absently took a step toward her. His human blood quickly dominated his demonic lineage, forcing it back into the depths of his soul. His blue pupils returned to their amber color. Kikyo's expression of joy quickly fell, and she pulled her hand out from her hakama. Her plan had failed before her eyes. How terrible!

A grimace formed on Inuyasha's face as his hand reached for her bleeding arm. His expression declined further as she moved out of his reach. The fear and distrust burned brightly in her eyes, and it scared him.

"Don't touch me," whispered Kagome. Kikyo shrugged with a puff of air. She'd take anything at the moment. Something was far better than nothing.

"Forgive me, Kagome that wasn't me. You know me, Kags. I would never hurt you! Please don't, go. Don't leave me," Inuyasha begged.

Too late my poor Inuyasha, the seed of doubt has already been planted in her heart. Kagome won't ever trust you again. Kikyo thought with satisfaction.

"I knew you, once," Kagome smiled half halfheartedly," The stranger you've become frightens me. I can't stay with someone who I don't know, nor do they know me. You don't deserve to know me anymore. Ne, maybe you should pair up with Naraku, you guys probably have a lot in common, deceiving others."

Her smile faded into a dark frown. Inuyasha stood there, in complete shock to what she was saying. If she wanted to hurt him, she'd succeeded. He couldn't believe how she'd just compared him to Naraku.

"Don't say that, don't! Kagome just, look at me. That's all I'm asking you to do. Please just lo-"His cry fell short as she ignored him. She turned her back on him with disgust written on her face.

"I once dreamed of falling in love with you, but I couldn't see that you were so far out of my league. You turned the most beautiful dream into my worst nightmare. You tried to break my spirit Inuyasha, but you never will! I'm done letting you infect me with Kikyo's curse!" Kagome yelled into the open air. She felt sadness swell within her, but with it came liberation.

"Inuyasha, you are perfect. The perfect kind of fool," she whispered with a sob.

Inuyasha stood speechless as she turned on her heel. He watched his futuristic schoolgirl run away into the darkening forest. Inuyasha remained on the grass field alone. The hand he used to strike her burned, and her words seared into his mind. His dark amber eyes held tears that threatened to spill.

Kikyo frowned at her lover's sadness. She would remedy that soon enough after she put that little pest Kagome out of her misery. She stealthily made her way out of that part of the forest. The dagger in her hakama ached for blood, and she would deliver. Her legs carried her in the direction of her reincarnation's soul.

"Yes, run. Run, Kagome. For I'll put an end to your pitiful existence soon enough." Kikyo laughed as she stalked the girl's aura.

Inuyasha never meant to hurt Kagome. He was just trying to get her to understand his struggle. He was no longer in control of himself, and she was to blame. Kikyo's face quickly filled his mind. She would always be with him, and Kagome could never take her place. However, his heart screamed at him.

It told him he was a damned fool. His heart knew that the dilemma would end if only he could let go of Kikyo, and choose Kagome.

Inuyasha tried to shake the feeling of betrayal off. There was no rush to go collect her. After all, where was she going to go? Kagome was his, and he knew that. Nobody else would take care of her the way he would.

"Don't worry, that stupid wench will be back," Inuyasha told himself with a hysterical reassurance.

He dropped his head into his hands with a muffled sob. Between Koga, Hojo, and Miroku, there was also himself he'd have to keep at bay. Or, maybe it was himself that had misunderstood the entire situation.

Inuyasha wondered what the matter with himself was. He had a bad habit of losing his cool lately, and it was getting worse. He'd become more protective of Kagome. He found himself quick to anger the closer she got to other males, even Shippo, and he was just a kit. His view of her had also changed, his desire to rut with her was fluctuating more now. The scent of her virginity smothered him and caused him to burn with lust. Kikyo, she was the only thing that lessened the fire Kagome's sweet innocence caused.

Each time he was in close contact with Kagome, her scent hit him. A voice told him to take her. These urges were only growing louder with each soft touch of her hand and beautiful smile. Why did he feel this way toward her, when he already had Kikyo? Yes, his precious Kikyo, his first love. However, there were things that Kagome made him feel, that Kikyo could never.

Fear bloomed in him at the realization that Kikyo wasn't enough. His satisfaction after rutting faded very quickly once Kagome's name crossed his mind. Holding Kikyo close and burying his face in her hair only chased away Kagome's image so far. But then what was Kagome to him? That question always haunted him because he still didn't have an answer for it, after all this time.


Kagome.

Kagome stumbled through the forest tripping over rocks and roots. Stray branches whip and punished her legs, chest, and back. Thorns and twigs ripped into her sleeves and the flesh of her palms as she pushed them out of the way. She sobbed horribly, and vision became blurry as she tried to wipe away the tears with her ripped sleeves.

She changed her direction in the dark. She slid her body down between a pair of tree trunks, and her hands left bloody prints on the bark. She panted with each beat of her heart. She wondered where she was going in this darkness. Her foot caught a rock causing her to fall forward, landing face first into a small stream.

Splash!

She lifted her head out of the cold water, and her wet hair clung to her face. The stones under her hands and knees shifted with the flow of the silvery stream. She cried harder as she crawled out of the creek and onto the cold dewy moss of the bank. She curled herself into a ball and pressed her wet face against her knees.

Her soaked uniform exposes the deep coral pink bra against her breasts. She felt her wounds burning against the chilly night air, but she found it hard to care. She wished she'd hit a rock and lost consciousness, anything to slip away from this world for a moment. She caught her breath in mid-sob, gaping as she tried to cease her crying.

Footsteps crush twigs far off at a distance. Alerted, Kagome pushed herself up on her elbows from the grass with tears dripping down her chin. The scent of sandalwood, oakmoss, and maple leaves filled her nose. She felt something approach, a familiar aura. She slowly gazed over her shoulder to find the last person she wanted to see other than Inuyasha, standing over her.

"Kikyo," Kagome muttered low. Kikyo, the dead woman who Inuyasha was torn over arrived before her and smiled in return. She'd witnessed everything from behind Goshinboku, at first she was happy until she saw Inuyasha cry.

"So soft, so naive," she cooed down to Kagome smugly," too easily tormented."

Kagome viewed Kikyo cautiously as the woman lowered herself onto the grass beside her. She flinched when a shadow crossed her face. Surprise filled her as Kikyo's hand began to stroke her silky black hair. Kikyo embraced her suddenly and brought the girl close to her breast. Kikyo held Kagome tightly as she relished the pitiful look in her violet eyes. The girl looked beautifully appetizing in her injured state, Kikyo couldn't help but smirk. The blade at her side called for the blood of the innocent, and Kikyo just couldn't wait to fulfill its wishes.

End.


Chapter End.

Notes: Thanks for reading the first chapter of Striking Colors of Edo! Hope you guys enjoyed it!

Please Read and Review! Tell me if you loved it, hated it, or had suggestions. I love feedback from you guys!

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I'll be updating ASAP.(。・ω・)ノ゙Bye, bye.