Chapter Two – Return to the Palace of the Western Lands
The next morning Kagome woke to find she was laying on the floor, she was about to sit up when she felt a strong arm on her waist. She quietly turned to face her mate, he appeared to be sleeping, Kagome had never seen him asleep but then again she's never slept with him before. She was about to caress his face when his golden eyes shot open "Yes Kagome?" She immediately blushed "I've been awake for the past hour"
"W-what time is it?"
"On the scent of the air it is 7am"
"Awe it's too early" Sesshoumaru sat up as his mate threw his boa over her face like a child would do with their pillow "Where's Inuyasha?" She asked a little muffled
"By here" Kagome pulled Sesshoumaru's boa from her face and sat up to see Inuyasha leaning against the wall beside Sango who was still asleep "It's about time you woke up"
"Hey Sango's still sleeping and Mir...hey where's Miroku?"
"He, Shippo and Kirara went for a walk" He then nudged Sango "Come on Sango shake a leg, you're starting to get more lazier than Kagome" Sango stirred and groaned
"Inuyasha don't wake her so harshly" Kagome scolded as she stood and stretched "How's the leg Sango?"
"It's ok, there's not that much pain" She smiled "I'm not sure if I can walk though"
"Stay off it for a day" Kagome said "You don't want to re-open it"
"I will carry her for now and she will ride Kirara if we are attacked" Inuyasha said as he went to pull Sango to her feet when she yelped in pain
"Inuyasha unless you want to injure her some more I suggest you don't do that" Sesshoumaru said as he stood and kneeled behind Sango "Turn around Inuyasha and I shall put her on your back"
"Yeah but let's get outside first" Kagome laughed. She then slung her pack over her back "Oh and Sango just because my mate is carrying you outside doesn't mean you can get any ideas"
"Don't worry Kagome I won't" Sango smirked. Sesshoumaru then lifted Sango bridal style and followed his mate and Inuyasha out of the hut. Once outside Inuyasha turned his back to them just as the young Prince placed Sango on his brother's back "T-thanks Prince Sesshoumaru" Sesshoumaru nodded and Kagome wrapped her arm back around his waist
"Mine now" Kagome grinned as she cuddled to him
"You know what Inuyasha" Sango whispered into his ear "They have been with each other all night and I have not seen them kiss"
"Yeah you're right, the only kiss I've seen him give her was on her forehead" Inuyasha replied in the same tone "I guess Sesshoumaru doesn't want to show his emotions in public"
"Well that's not very nice for Kagome" Sango huffed. Myouga then jumped out of nowhere and landed on Inuyasha's shoulder
"Don't forget Sango that Prince Sesshoumaru has had a very hard upbringing"
"What do you mean?" Sango asked
"I had a hard upbringing and I show emotion" Inuyasha protested
"Yes you did, but you didn't open up to anybody until you met Kagome" Myouga explained "In time Kagome may be able to do the same for his highness" Miroku, Kirara and Shippo had just returned as the old flea was speaking
"Shall we leave then? it would be good to get to the palace before midnight, it is mating season so it will not be safe for the women" Sesshoumaru suggested
"I agree" They all then made their West...
It was midday now and everyone besides Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha were exhausted, sure Sango hadn't been walking but it was very hot today and it just drained her energy. Kagome found that her bag was feeling heavier as her body felt more drained, she didn't complain as she didn't want Sesshoumaru to think that she was weak but he knew how she felt and was rather surprised that she hadn't asked to stop. He smelled a lake not too far off so he turned to Inuyasha "Inuyasha there is a lake not too far from here, perhaps we should stop to let the humans rest a little. We've been walking for a few hours now"
"Yeah I'd like a little rest too" Inuyasha replied "I need to stretch my arms a little, they've gone numb from carrying Sango too long"
"If you wish I will carry her, the neko has also been walking all day so it would be unfair for her to do any carrying"
"No it's ok I can smell the lake not too far from here"
"Roughly how far is this lake?" Kagome asked
"15 minutes" Sesshoumaru replied. Kagome mentally groaned and threw her head back "Come here" She looked at him confused. He pulled her to him and gathered her into his arms, Miroku offered to take her bag which she gladly accepted and she wrapped her arms around her mate's neck. She hid her head in the crook on his neck and sighed
"If I get too heavy for you please let me know, I don't want to burden you"
"Kagome you're one of the smallest women I have ever met I doubt you'll be heavy" She could tell by the tone in his voice that he was smirking "And you're not a burden" Kagome looked into his golden eyes and smiled
"Thank you" She then pecked his cheek and leaned into his ear "Will we be spending the night at your palace tonight?" He moved his gaze to hers and nodded "Good" They entered the clearing with the lake and the males set the girls down by the water. Sango saw Kagome lean over the edge to scoop up some water and took the opportunity to push her in, she knew the water was shallow so Kagome was completely safe "Hey" Kagome spat out water and laughed with her best friend "If you didn't have a bad leg I would so pull you in right now" Inuyasha, Sesshoumaru and Co. watched from their positions and smiled as the girls threw water at each other
"I think some water may soothe my leg anyway" And with Sango jumped into the lake with Kagome "Come on Shippo you too" Shippo then jumped off Miroku's shoulder and into the lake. Miroku offered to join them too when he received death glares from the brothers
"I will go scout the area for any disturbances and I shall find some food for the girls, watch that monk doesn't try anything" Inuyasha nodded and Sesshoumaru left. Sango turned to see Sesshoumaru had gone, she got out of the lake with Kagome and began to chat
"Kagome how come Sesshoumaru won't kiss you in public?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well he never seems to show any affection when there is company"
"Oh he will if he or I want to, it's just that we've been travelling all day and we just didn't think to do anything like that" Kagome answered "If you want me to prove it I won't mind doing it" She giggled
"Kagome" Inuyasha said as he leaned forward "Has Sesshoumaru ever told you about his upbringing?"
"Small parts, why?"
"Just...wondering" Inuyasha had picked up Sesshoumaru's scent and knew that he was now in hearing range, the young Prince entered the camp site to find everyone staring at him. He was about to say something when Inuyasha stepped in "So was there any trouble?"
"No, there is no food in this area either so I suggest we continue before it gets dark"
"I agree, come on then Sango" Inuyasha then went on his knees in front of Sango and looked up at the sky "Sesshoumaru I think we should take the girls and move fast, I can smell a miasma travelling this way"
"I smell it too, Kagome come here" Kagome ran into Sesshoumaru's arms as he lifted her bridal style "I think we should fly, it is faster and we will get to the palace before sunset"
"Shippo turn into your giant ball thingy and carry Miroku, I'll ride with Sango on Kirara and Kagome will obviously fly with Sesshoumaru" Shippo nodded and transformed "Sesshoumaru lead the way" The Prince's youkai cloud appeared from beneath him as he took to the sky with everyone following
"Wow how do make the cloud appear?" Kagome asked amazed "Do all inuyoukai do it?"
"Yes, do you want to stand?" Kagome nodded and Sesshoumaru let her on her feet, she kept a firm grip on his hand though just in case she had one of clumsy moments and slipped
"Wow it's really beautiful up here" She giggled. Sesshoumaru wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her against his chest. Kagome saw Inuyasha and Sango watching them and knew what they were waiting for, she gave a quiet sigh and looked up at her mate "Sesshoumaru?"
"Yes Kagome" He met her gaze and she smiled. She then turned in his arms so that she was facing him, leaned up and softly brushed her lips against his. He tightened his grip on her waist and deepened the kiss, she wrapped her arms around his neck and melted in his embrace. They then parted lips and she leaned into his ear
"You have no idea how much I love you" She breathed
"I think I do" He smirked. Inuyasha and Sango watched in awe as the two lovers held each other, Kagome then looked over to her friends and winked as she mimed 'Told ya' The rest of the journey was in silence, well that was until Kagome spotted the palace
"Oh my God it's gorgeous" She beamed as her eyes caught the tall golden castle with cherry blossoms travelling all the way up the towers, the gates were solid gold with guards on either side who were also dressed in a gold and silver uniform. They landed in front of the gates and immediately all the guards kneeled and bowed their heads to Sesshoumaru
"Prince Sesshoumaru" A youkai with green hair smiled as the gates opened, he walked up to them and bowed "It is always an honour to see that you've returned to the palace, was your journey pleasant?"
"Yes Monomaru" Sesshoumaru replied as he signalled for all his guards to stand "I trust there has been no problems" The youkai identified as Monomaru sighed and bowed his head
"I am sorry to inform but there has been a few slight problems" He then stood upright "Rin has locked herself in her bedroom and has not eaten for 3 days, we have tried to convince to unlock the door but she has somehow cast a spell upon the room, Jaken returned earlier from travelling with you and didn't make matters better. She seemed to go even more silent"
"How can an infant cast any spells? Rin is human so she doesn't possess any magic, she's not even a miko" Sesshoumaru asked
"We have been wondering the same things my Prince, we have suspicions that the imp has said or done something to cause this behaviour. He was the last seen with her when you left and he has been on edge since he returned"
"Very well, let us through Monomaru and see to it that my brother and his comrades are shown to their rooms and are given within reason anything that they require" Monomaru then moved to the side and let Sesshoumaru pass, but before the young Prince moved he turned slightly to his guard "Monomaru you have not heard of my father recently have you?" Monomaru looked at his master as if he had gone crazy
"No of course not Prince Sesshoumaru, how would I be able to make contact with the dead?" Sesshoumaru dismissed the question and went on inside the palace with everyone following. When they entered Inuyasha and Co. found that more servants dropped what they were doing and bowed to Sesshoumaru, Inuyasha found a few glaring at him and felt a little unnerved. He knew Sesshoumaru and his father would only have picked strong reliable people to serve them so he had to wonder if there were any stronger than him, Sesshoumaru smelled his brother's fear and turned to what he was staring at. He found his servants glaring at the hanyou
"Is there a problem?" All the servants scents spiked with fear and they all shook their heads "Then get back to your duties" They all then scurried away as fast as they could "Jaken" The imp heard his name being called by the youkai he loved so dearly, he quickly ran down the stairs and bowed instantly in front of his Lord
"Prince Sesshoumaru you've returned"
"Monomaru has told me of Rin, explain" Jaken fell to his knees and let his nose touch the marble floor
"Milord, Rin refuses to leave her room no matter what. I've explained that you will be angry at this but she simply does not care, perhaps we should rid her of the palace milord she obviously has no respect for you"
"Jaken you shall hold your tongue" Sesshoumaru snapped "Kagome come with me, Inuyasha you and your friends may do whatever you want" And with that Sesshoumaru took Kagome up a long flight of stairs and down long corridor until they came upon a door with children's drawings all over, some of him, her and Kagome. Sesshoumaru knocked the door "Rin it is I, open the door"
"Prince Sesshoumaru I don't want you to see someone as filthy as me" Rin called from her room
"Rin you're not filthy, I have someone here who wants to see you. It's your new mother" Kagome smiled at this and snuggled his arm. They heard little footsteps and moving objects, the door then opened by itself. They entered and found Rin sitting on her bed, Sesshoumaru sat in front of her on the bed and wiped her tears with his thumb "Tell me what's wrong" The infant sniffled and wiped her nose with her sleeve
"Master Jaken said I am a very dirty girl because..." New tears formed in her eyes and Kagome immediately pulled her into her arms
"Shh it's ok Rin, we're here" Rin clung to her new mother and sobbed her little heart out "Take your time sweetie" She nodded and sniffled once again
"Master Jaken is stronger than I thought" She whispered "He said it was mating...something and he held me down and started doing weird things that really hurt...I asked him to stop but he said no because I am human so it makes me filthy and worthless..."
"Rin..." Kagome held her tighter as tears began to form in her own eyes "I know how you feel little one, do not worry" She heard Sesshoumaru growl at this but ignored it for now "You're not filthy or worthless, yes you are human and you should be proud of that" Kagome then looked up at Sesshoumaru "No wonder why Jaken wanted to get rid of her"
"I will see to it that he is killed and..."
"No please don't Prince Sesshoumaru" Rin pleaded "Death is an easy way out" Sesshoumaru opened his arms to her and she tilted her head in confusion
"Come here Rin" He smelt her fear rise, she was afraid of him "I won't touch you in such a way Rin, I promise you. You told me once that you trust me, you still don't you?" She nodded and slowly crawled into his lap, Sesshoumaru noticed that Kagome's scent had changed from sorrow to anger
"She's only 8" She growled "The same God damn age as I was" She was crying out of anger which only caused her anger to increase
"Mate calm yourself for Rin's sake" Sesshoumaru ordered "She is scared enough as it is" Kagome nodded and let out a frustrated sigh "Monomaru told me that you used some sort of magic to seal yourself in here, did you?" She nodded "How?"
"I was in the library and found a few scrolls and books on magic for beginners, I wanted to try it out so I borrowed them. Anyone who has the will can use magic, I used it to block the door with my wardrobe and desk" She then hesitated "Are you angry with me?"
"No I'm not angry" Sesshoumaru gave a small smile "But I do not want you using magic without my permission, it can be very dangerous if used wrongly"
"Ok" She snuggled to her Prince and sighed "What will you do to Master Jaken?"
"You shall only call him Jaken from now on and I will just give him some torture and will make him serve Kagome and all of her friends" Kagome then began to laugh "What's so amusing mate?"
"Inuyasha is such a mucky pup and that is torture itself for Jaken" She then calmed and kissed Rin's forehead "Shippo is downstairs if you want to play with him" Rin then brightened up and nodded
"Really? Yes, I've missed him" Kagome then lifted Rin into her arms and began to make her way downstairs with Sesshoumaru at her side. They found Inuyasha and Co. in the sitting room along with Monomaru and Jaken. Rin snuggled to Kagome when she saw the imp and whimpered slightly
"Hey Shippo, how about you and Rin go play in the garden?" Kagome offered
"Yeah ok" The young kit smiled "Lead the way Rin" Kagome then let Rin down, the infant took Shippo's hand and they ran off together to the gardens with Kirara following. As soon as they were gone Sesshoumaru turned to Jaken as his eyes started to bleed red
"Give me one good reason why I shouldn't kill you Jaken?"
"Please Milord" Jaken fell to his knees "I was not in the right mind, the child was asking about the certain subject and I showed her"
"Disgusting" Sesshoumaru then beat the imp until he could no longer move "Rin asks that you stay alive, you shall be Inuyasha's servant and shall remain in the dungeons until I send for you"
"Yes Prince Sesshoumaru" The imp said as he coughed up blood
"Monomaru get him out of my face" Monomaru nodded and dragged Jaken off with him. Kagome approached Sesshoumaru and smiled
"I take it no one touches your daughter" She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his lips, he then leaned into her ear and whispered
"Ourdaughter" His eyes then returned to amber as he nuzzled Kagome's cheek. Suddenly screams and cries were heard from the throne room, Monomaru ran in plastered in his and others blood whilst breathing heavily
"Your highness get out of here, Naraku is here and..."
"Monomaru I will not run from that whelp"
"He is not the concern, your uncle is helping him. He's here and is after you, I promised your father that I'd protect you from him no matter what. Please run!" Monomaru unsheathed his sword ready for the battle
"What does he want me for?"
"He...AH" A sword was struck through Monomaru from behind as the youkai collapsed to the floor, Sesshoumaru pushed Kagome behind him as a youkai in black who wore a white mask walked in grinning
"Hello my nephew" He pulled his sword from Monomaru who grunted in pain "It has been a while" Sesshoumaru growled and unsheathed his sword
"Get out of my home!"
"I demand respect Sesshoumaru" He frowned. He then lifted his arm and moved it to his left, as he did this Sesshoumaru's sword flew from his hands and into the left wall "Now bow to me" His hand was then raised in Sesshoumaru's direction, the Prince cried out in pain and he was forced to kneel in front of his uncle "That's better"
"HEY" Inuyasha unsheathed Tetsusaiga and stood in front of Sesshoumaru "How dare you defile my brother so"
"Inuyasha..." Sesshoumaru winced "...run"
"Wha..." Inuyasha then found himself being lifted into the air by something that could not be seen and thrown into the wall rendering him unconscious
"Inuyasha..." Sango gasped as she limped to his aid
"So the half breed is Inutaisho's son, how unfortunate I thought he would put up more of a fight" He then approached Sesshoumaru and smirked "You're just as weak as you were last time we fought, pity" He then looked at Kagome "I see you've followed your disgusting father's footsteps, your are unfit to rule Japan Sesshoumaru" Sesshoumaru who was still stuck in a kneeling position growled as he looked up at his dreaded uncle
"What do you want Phantom?" The uncle now identified as Phantom kneeled in front of Sesshoumaru and grasped his chin "The throne of course, I would have had it sooner if you weren't around. You realize that you were only born so that I could not legally have the throne, you and I both know that your father's love was not real. He chose Inuyasha over you, his pathetic half breed son. He even chose a human wench over you, but you still honour him to this very day. Pathetic" He then grasped Sesshoumaru by the throat and made him stand "Naraku"
Naraku entered the room smirking, holding his blood stained hands out to be shown "Yes Phantom?"
"The halfbreed, woman and companions are yours, Sesshoumaru is mine. Make sure they do not bother me as I strangle the life out of our little Prince, Inuyasha has already been dealt with so you should have no problems"
"Do not look so blindly. The woman is actually an incarnation of the miko Kikyo, she can purify you"
"I already know what she is, she does not know how to use her powers properly so she is of no concern. Hurry and kill her"
"Leave her Phantom" Sesshoumaru ordered "I'm the one you want"
"True" Phantom met his nephew's gaze "But you know how much I love to hear a woman scream, after all you were there when I dispatched your mother" The Prince growled as his eyes tinted a shade of red "Yes that's it, release your inner beast" Sesshoumaru's eyes went back to amber "No? Then I will squeeze the very life from you" He then began to tighten and squeeze Sesshoumaru's neck
"Sesshoumaru" Kagome screamed. Naraku jumped in front of her and the gang so that they could not interfere, He grabbed Kagome and forced her to watch as her mate slowly died. Sesshoumaru could feel his life slipping away from him, his eyes were half lidded as his breathing go heavier "Myouga" Kagome called "Where is that god damn flea when you need him?"
"I'll save him" Miroku was about to open his wind tunnel when a swarm of poisonous insects surrounded him "Sango I can't attack with these, use your Hirakotsu!" But when Miroku turned around he found that she had been knocked out unconscious beside Inuyasha "NO"
"Say goodbye to his highness Kagome" Naraku laughed. Phantom's grip on Sesshoumaru tightened even more as he raised him off the ground
"It would seem your time is up my nephew, I..."
"STOP THIS!" Phantom looked towards the door to find Totosai and Myouga "In the name of the King you shall release the Prince"
"The King is dead" Phantom snickered "I don't think the name of him will stop me" Totosai then stood to the side and in walked a youkai in silver armour with matching hair, Inuyasha and Sango regained their conciousness but were unable to move as they were in too much pain
"No my name won't but I will" A bolt of energy hit Phantom in the gut knocking him back into the wall causing him to release the Prince. Sesshoumaru then looked towards the doorway
"Father..." His eyes then closed as he collapsed to the floor
"NO" Kagome screamed as Inuyasha gapped. The King pointed to Naraku and glared
"Release her dark hanyou and I shall let you live this one time"
"Phantom?" Naraku looked towards him as he wiped his face free of blood
"Do as he says and go, I will need you to assist me soon" Naraku nodded and threw Kagome at the King as he disappeared. The King caught Kagome with ease and let her stand upright, he then looked up at Phantom and unsheathed his sword
"You will not be leaving so easily brother" He then raised his sword to Phantom's neck "You have dishonoured our family, you have harmed one of your own. This cannot be forgiven, you shall be stripped of all rights and sealed in my dungeons. Now surrender" Phantom lifted his hands either side of his head and smirked
"Hail to the King" His eyes then flew over Sesshoumaru's limp body "You may have beaten me my brother but I have won the fight, I assume you shall be called back to the gods and when that happens I shall take over as King of Japan. Your half breed cannot take the throne as he is only half of a Prince and your former heir is no longer breathing" The King's went wide with fear as he looked down at his son, indeed Sesshoumaru was no longer breathing
"GUARDS" The guards ran into the room and gasped at their King's return "Lock Phantom away and call every healer in the palace here" They numbly nodded and went about their orders. The King fell to his knees beside his son and turned him so that he was laying on his back "I will not let you die" He then placed his hand over Sesshoumaru's heart and closed his eyes, he began to chant as his hand glowed blue. Kagome was on her knees as Totosai held her in his arms as she wept
"King Inutaisho you are many things but you cannot bring back the dead with your powers, why not use Tenseiga?" Totosai asked
"Hmm" The King smiled softly "I have learnt much sorcery in the land of the dead my old friend, Tenseiga will not work on him as he has been revived with it once before, using my powers is the last thing I can do" His hand then seized to glow and the King pulled away, he looked down at his son and prayed that his spell would work "I know you not to give up so easily my son, awaken"
The healers then hurried into the room and went to the injured. The head healer kneeled opposite the King and checked Sesshoumaru's pulse, she met her King's gaze and shook her head "My apologies my Lord but Prince Sesshoumaru is no longer with us" Kagome's cries then became louder in the background "He was dead as soon as he hit the ground"
"Yuri" The King smirked "You're Sesshoumaru's personal healer and guardian, you should know him well enough to know he will not fall so easily" As he said this a groan was heard. Yuri and Inutaisho looked down to find Sesshoumaru's eyes opening
"Impossible..." Yuri gasped
"It is good to see you awake my son" Inutaisho smiled warmly "You had me scared for a moment" Sesshoumaru looked up at his father, confusion filled his eyes. Inutaisho took Sesshoumaru's hand and pulled him up to sit "Are you in any pain?" He shook his head and continued to give his father a speechless look "I guess you're wondering how am I alive?"
"S-so I'm not dead" He more asked than stated
"You're alive and well" He smiled "And you're a little hypocrite, you were disgusted when I mated Izayoi and now I find that you have also taken a human for a mate. I think I deserve an apology and..."
"Kagome" Sesshoumaru then began to look around for his mate
"I'm here" Kagome then moved from Totosai and ran into Sesshoumaru's arms "I thought I lost you" Sesshoumaru wrapped his arms around Kagome and held her close
"Are you injured?" She met his gaze and shook her head
"I'm fine, are you?" He nodded. He then leaned in and claimed her lips with his, one of the healers then kneeled beside Yuri and whispered into her ear, Yuri nodded and dismissed her
"King Inutaisho, Monomaru is dead" Sesshoumaru released Kagome and looked up at Yuri
"Is there a way for you to revive him?" She shook her head
"But either you or your father can" She smiled "Tenseiga can bring him back"
"I shall do it" Inutaisho then unhooked Tenseiga (and sheath) from Sesshoumaru's belt and unsheathed it, he then walked over to Monomaru's corpse and held it over him "Bring my fallen comrade back from the dead Tenseiga" He then slashed through the air and re-sheathed the sword. Monomaru began to stir and he awoke "Welcome back my friend"
"King Inutaisho? Is it really you?" Inutaisho nodded "I am overjoyed to find you alive and well my Lord"
"Well that's a better reaction than I had from my sons" He mused "My youngest just gawks at me whilst my eldest says very little only holds his mate" He helped Monomaru to his feet and turned to his healers "Report" Yuri stepped forward
"Everyone seems to be fine except your youngest and his woman..."
"I'm not his/She's not my/woman" Sango and Inuyasha both blushed
"Oh then my apologies" Yuri bowed and turned back to Inutaisho "They were in great pain but I managed to find an antidote, all they need now is some food and rest"
"I see" Inutaisho nodded "You may go now, I need to talk with my sons" The healers and Monomaru bowed and left. Inutaisho turned to his sons as he helped Sesshoumaru to his feet "We have much to discuss, we..." He was interrupted by the door flying open
"Prince Sesshoumaru" Rin cried as she ran to him "I was so scared"
"Kagome" Shippo jumped into her arms "Are you okay?" Kagome nodded and kissed him
"Are you Shippo?" Kirara ran in and into Sango's waiting arms
"Yep, Kirara and I managed to keep Rin safe and I fought off some of Naraku's minions"
"That was very brave of you" Kagome smiled as she hugged him "I'm so proud of you" Rin was still crying into Sesshoumaru's leg until he lifted her into his arms
"Are you injured Rin?"
"No I'm ok"
"Who is the infant Sesshoumaru? She is not yours" Inutaisho asked
"She is my ward, I took her in after a fight with Inuyasha"
"I see, well let's all sit and discuss matters" They all did as the King suggested, Inutaisho remained standing as he began to talk "Inuyasha how many years are you?"
"100" The hanyou replied
"So you're still very young" He nodded "Sesshoumaru you have lived for many decades but you are also very young, are you not 180?"
"Yes father" Kagome never asked Sesshoumaru of his age and was rather shocked 'I better not tell mom I'm seeing a 180 year old, after all I'm only 15' "Why do you ask?"
"I know neither one of you are very religious, Sesshoumaru you are obviously more than Inuyasha but what I'm trying to get out to you is that as you age your respect for religion and culture will too" Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru looked at their father confused "I am explaining this to you because I do not believe you are going to believe what I'm telling you next"
"Father you are not one to be dishonest"
"I know but even I found it unbelievable" He sighed "The Gods gave me my life back" Everyone then looked at Inutaisho as if he had gone mad "They foresaw the future and said that Naraku could not be defeated even if you two worked together, I needed to return back to the land of the living so that I can defeat Naraku and to make sure Phantom knows his place"
"And what happens after Naraku is dead?" Sesshoumaru asked as he placed Rin on Kagome's lap with Shippo "Do you remain here or do you return to them?"
"They were not specific and I know better than to question the Gods, all they said was that my reward would be meeting Inuyasha whilst I kill Naraku. If I succeed they said my fate rests with them" He looked at his eldest and found that his eyes were cold and unforgiving "Sesshoumaru..." Sesshoumaru stood and headed towards the door
"I shall be in the dojo" And with that he left
"What's his problem?" Inuyasha huffed "I never knew he was an attention seeker"
"Inuyasha!" Kagome snapped. She wasn't going to sit, she doubted that the King would appreciate her actions and she didn't want to go to the dungeons "Grow up" Inutaisho sighed and leaned against the wall
"He is not seeking attention Inuyasha, he is simply jealous of you"
"Me?" Inuyasha asked "Why? How could he be jealous of a half breed who doesn't live all high and mighty?"
"It is because..." He then looked down at the children "Umm children why don't you go play in the garden or something while we have a grown up talk?" They nodded and ran out of the room "I don't think Sesshoumaru would have appreciated it if they had listened, he will be annoyed that I am telling you this. But anyway it is because I died for you and your mother, he believes that I love you more as I didn't live for him. I don't regret saving you and your mother but I do regret leaving him, he has gone so cold since I left, so...distant. I left too soon he wasn't ready"
"Is that why he always tries to kill me?" Inuyasha asked
"Yes but he wouldn't really kill you, he doesn't have the heart to kill one of his own" He sighed "I should go talk to him"
"But what happened to his mom?"
"When he was 10 I was away, we were at war with the panther tribe so I was fighting in the front lines. Sesshoumaru and his mother Jen were here as it was obviously not right to take your pup and mate to war with you, Phantom attacked the palace in my absence and tried to kill Sesshoumaru. He had managed to knock most of my men out and went straight to the nursery where Jen and Sesshoumaru were, Jen tried her best to protect Sesshoumaru. Phantom had knocked them from each other, he threw Sesshoumaru into a corner and was about to strike him when Jen jumped in the way and got hit instead. I got to the nursery just in time to see her hit the ground. You see I could sense a disturbance from the palace and told my men to go back, I went on ahead and prayed that I could get there in time but I didn't. Phantom fled and I approached Sesshoumaru, he was covered in Jen's blood and was shaking violently. He was so traumatised that he would have nightmares and he couldn't enter the nursery, I don't know if he goes in it now for his ward but I know he didn't then" Everyone gapped except Totosai and Myouga who already knew
"I must say my Lord, I am surprised that Sesshoumaru did not go a little suicidal" Totosai said
"Remember old friend, Sesshoumaru was far too young to feel that. I always tried to distract him from the pain anyway" Kagome took in all the information and felt a great sadness hit her, why hadn't Sesshoumaru told her of this? She could have helped him in some way "Kagome?" Kagome looked up at Inutaisho
"Yes your highness?" He then sat beside her
"Has Sesshoumaru told you anything of his past?
"Only a bit, but it was only on where he grew up and how he was raised. He told me that he doesn't like to talk about it much"
"I see" He nodded "Tell me Kagome, how did you meet my son?"
"Well to be honest I was his enemy first, we met when he and Inuyasha were trying to get Tetsusaiga from your grave. We gradually met up and fought until one day when they were fighting, Rin had ran out in the middle of them and was almost hit by an attack. Unconsciously I jumped in the way and was hit, I didn't die but was greatly wounded. Sesshoumaru was grateful for what I had done and in return he promised never to harm me and to protect me if anything ever happened to Inuyasha. Later on Rin and I saw a lot of each other and were inseparable, I would go see her when Sesshoumaru had set up camp and if Rin had fallen asleep I would talk with Sesshoumaru until Inuyasha came, our feelings just grew from there"
"Has he ever told you that he loves you?"
"Yes many times" Kagome smiled "We hardly ever see each other though, I was the one who shattered the Shikon jewel so it is up to me to piece it back together. Inuyasha offered Sesshoumaru to join the group yesterday and he agreed"
"That was very noble of you Inuyasha" Inutaisho smiled. Inuyasha gave an embarrassed look as he scratched his head
"It was nothing really"
"I take it you and Sesshoumaru get on through Kagome?"
"Well we hardly ever talk to each other unless we're arguing, but we haven't fought in a good while"
"I see" Inutaisho then stood "Kagome I rather doubt Sesshoumaru will speak with me properly at the moment, if I take you to him will you speak to him on my behalf?"
"Yes your highness"
"Thank you, Inuyasha you and your friends may go wherever you like except the dojo at this moment. Totosai ask Monomaru to show them to their rooms and I shall meet you and Myouga in my study. Inuyasha I shall be speaking with you soon too" And with that Inutaisho took Kagome's hand and escorted her to the dojo
Meanwhile Sesshoumaru was in the dojo training on some of the sand bags, he had just destroyed the last of them when Inutaisho entered with Kagome. Sesshoumaru turned to them and wiped his forehead with his arm "Is there something the matter?" He asked as Kagome just gawked at his topless form
"Kagome wanted to see you, she doesn't know the palace well so I brought her here" Inutaisho said "Unless you wish to be alone"
"It is fine" Inutaisho nodded, kissed Kagome's hand and left. Kagome then walked over to Sesshoumaru and gave him a soft smile
"How are you feeling?"
"I am fine Kagome" He dusted himself off of the sand and kissed Kagome's cheek "And you?"
"I'm ok, just worried about you. I thought I lost you today" Sesshoumaru wrapped one arm around her waist and brushed the bangs from her eyes
"There is no need to worry, I am alive" He then leaned down and caught her lips in a soft and tender kiss "You must be tired and hungry, how about we get something for you to eat and then we'll retire for the night"
"Are you not hungry?" He shook his head "Or are you just eager to hold me in bed?" He smirked and let his hand slip to her bottom
"Wouldn't you like to know" He claimed her lips once again but a little rougher, Kagome wrapped her arms around his neck whilst he wrapped his other arm around her waist "I love you" He breathed
"I love you more" She teased
"I doubt it" He then broke away and took her hand
"Sessh do you hold anything against your father? You stormed out earlier that's all" Kagome asked innocently
"I was just a little angered that he was brought back here only to kill Naraku and to see Inuyasha"
"And you're only a little angry?" She asked as she raised her eyebrow. Sesshoumaru released her hand and went to pull on his haori "You do realize your father loves you, don't you?"
"I don't want to discuss this Kagome" He said as he slipped his haori on, Kagome walked over to him, pulled the ties from his hands and went about tying his haori for him
"But Sesshoumaru if you don't talk to anyone about it you will feel even more upset, come on you know you can trust me"
"It is not about trust, I just do not wish to talk about it"
"But..."
"Leave it!" He growled
"Hey" Kagome snapped "Don't talk to me like I'm one of your servants!" She released him and turned her back from him "I'm only trying to help you but no you've got to keep everything to yourself as usual whilst I just spill my guts out to you" She then sighed "Why is it that you keep things from me? Why the secrecy?"
"Kagome" He walked up behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders "It is nothing against you it's just that I find it easier if I don't discuss my past, it was a long painful path that I do not wish to walk upon again" He then nuzzled her neck "I will tell you, just give me some time" Kagome nodded. She then tilted her head back and kissed his neck, his hands then slipped away from her shoulders and he placed them over hers "I apologize if I've made you believe that I don't trust you"
"I'm sorry for going on too" He placed a gentle kiss on her forehead and took her hand once again
"Come we shall retire to my chambers and I will have someone send you something to eat" They then left the dojo and re-entered the palace
When they entered they found Inutaisho, Inuyasha and Co. staring at them "Is there a problem?" Sesshoumaru asked half bored
"No" Inutaisho replied "What are you two going to do?"
"It is late and my mate is tired, we're going to retire for the night" The young Prince replied
"I shall have Yuri send you and Kagome some rice" Sesshoumaru nodded and proceeded with Kagome upstairs without even saying goodnight to his father. When they entered Sesshoumaru's chambers Kagome gasped at the beauty of it. The dark blue walls, wooden flooring, the great oak desk, the walk through wardrobe, the balcony and the massive king sized bed
"Wow" Was as she could say
"I'm assuming you like our chambers"
"Ours?" She looked up at him
"Yes" He nodded with a smirk "You're my mate so this will be your room as well as mine, I've already had kimonos made for you as I knew one day you would come to live here with me" Kagome looked up at him and grinned
"You're so thoughtful" She then leaned up and caught his lips in a passionate kiss as she placed her delicate little hands on his broad shoulders
"Indeed I am" He then deepened the kiss and pulled her over to the bed. He broke the kiss and lay back on the bed, Kagome then crawled up the bed and lay on top of him
"I love you" She pecked his lips "I love you more than anything"
"I am very lucky and proud to have you my mate" He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and held her close "Kagome I want you so much, I want you to bear my mating mark upon your neck, to have my scent mixed with yours, to have you carry my heir"
"What are you talking about I am yours so why do you want me?"
"No Kagome I want to claim you" He smirked evilly when he saw her cheeks blush a deep crimson "Will you give me the pleasure in doing so, this will be the only night we can spend here as we will be travelling again tomorrow" She shook her head and tears began to fall down her cheeks "Kagome?" He leaned up and wrapped his arms around her "What's wrong? I'm not going to force you"
"I know" She sobbed "It's just that I'm afraid" Misty brown eyes met concerned amber ones "My father raped me when I was Rin's age and I'm always afraid it will happen again" Her cries got a little louder "You're the first person I've told"
"Kagome I would never harm you" He kissed her forehead and wiped her tears away "If you do not want to do this we won't"
"I do not want to displease Sesshoumaru"
"That is impossible" He smiled genuinely "I will protect you from such nightmares Kagome"
"You're so good to me" She breathed as she nuzzled his chest "I will let you claim me Sesshoumaru just promise me to take things slowly"
"You're traumatized I will not add to your fear"
"You won't, if anything you will help me overcome it" She met his eyes once more "Please Sesshoumaru take me" He brushed the bangs from her eyes and kissed her tenderly. His hands slithered around her waist as her gently flipped so that she was laying on the bed. He knew he had to take things slowly even if his beast wanted him to rough and fast with her, he would control himself just for her
"I promise I'll be gentle" She nodded at his words and gasped when she felt his soft lips kiss down her neck. She loved how his hands roamed over her body and how good it felt to feel his body pressed against hers
"Sessh..." She moaned. He sucked the junction between her neck and shoulder as he removed her scarf from her collar. He continued to kiss and lick her neck which annoyed Kagome slightly, she asked him to be gentle with her not to take forever "Sesshoumaru...please...move a little...faster" He left her neck and met her half lidded eyes with his lust filled ones
"You asked me to be gentle and to take things slowly"
"Yes but not that slow" He smirked and kissed her forehead
"And here I thought I'd be the impatient one" He went to pull off her top when she stopped him "What's wrong?"
"Could we keep our clothes on? Just this once?" He nodded and began to think of how he could make love to her without getting over heated with the extra set of clothing, suddenly it hit him
"Then my love may I take you off the bed?" She gave him a weary nod
"Perfect" When she saw the wicked grin on his face she regretted it. He then pulled her off the bed and pushed her rather roughly against the wall, immediately he closed the space between them and began to kiss her once again
"Sesshou..." She gasped as she broke the kiss "Not so rough" He leaned into her ear and nipped at it
"Wrap your arms around me" She looked at him curiously and a little weary "Trust me" She did so and he lifted her "And...your legs" He breathed. She gave a short nod and wrapped her legs around his waist resulting in her kicking her shoes and socks off
"I've seen how a guy...takes a woman...like this in...a movie before"
"A...movie?" He pulled away for a moment
"I'll show you...when we...go back...to my time" He gave a breathy nod and used one hand to slither up her leg, to her thigh and grasp her underwear. He realized there was no way to remove them from her easily and knew she wouldn't appreciate him ripping them so he pushed everything off his desk and set her on it "Sessh?"
"It's easier...believe me" He then pulled off her underwear and threw it on the floor. She then untied his belt and pulled down his hakama just enough to reveal his member, she could not get over the size of it
"You won't fit in me" She gawked
"I will don't worry" He then pulled her to him and gently slid into her, there was no need to prepare her as she had already lost her virginity. She gasped and moaned at the same time as he slowly pumped her
"Oh...faster" He did as she requested and tried his best to keep his beast under control, if his beast took over she may never trust him ever again "Ah" She looked up at his eyes and saw them tinted a slight crimson, she knew he was holding back his beast for her sake "Sesshoumaru I want to see your beast...oh...I won't be afraid" He complied and let go, his eyes were fully crimson as his thrusts got harder and faster
"Mine" He growled as she moaned in ecstasy, she bit back the urge to scream as he hit her spot
"I'm almost there" She cried. He was near his end too, he went even faster when he finally hit his climax with her following closely behind "Sesshoumaru!" She cried out into his collar. He bit into her neck and marked her as his "Ah..." She closed her eyes and gripped onto his shoulders. When he finished marking her he pulled away and his eyes turned back to amber
"Now you are officially mine" She smiled at this and sighed as he carried her back over to the bed and lay down beside her, he wrapped his arms protectively around her and buried his nose in her hair "I'm sorry I marked you with your say so"
"I wouldn't have it any other way Sessh" She then closed her eyes and let sleep take over her. Sesshoumaru pulled the covers over them and let sleep take over him too
Inutaisho was in the lounge speaking with Inuyasha and friends when a maid walked in carrying a tray with two bowls of rice sitting on top, she had a deep blush on her face as she bowed her head to her King "King Inutaisho I do not believe I should take these to Prince Sesshoumaru and Lady Kagome"
"Why is that Mia?" The King asked
"Well his highness and her Ladyship were...busy" Inutaisho then smirked
"Oh were they now? Don't worry Mia I'm sure they are asleep now, you may return to your duties" Mia bowed and left
"They haven't even been here a day and they're at it like rabbits" Inuyasha gagged
"It's now or never" Sango shrugged "Think about it, we're going to be travelling for most of our time now. Kagome told me that she was going to wait until after Naraku's death but I told her that he may never die so I'm guessing she's taking my advice and acting now"
"Well if she gets knocked up I'm blaming it on you" Inuyasha sighed as he leaned back "It'll be hard enough as it is than to have a pregnant miko travelling with us"
"Well we can have her go home when she gets too big to fight, I'd prefer her back home anyway she's safer there" Sango replied
"You honestly believe Sesshoumaru will let her go home?" Inuyasha asked
"True" Sango sighed "Well at least she's happy"
"She seems like a strong and sincere young woman" Inutaisho smiled "And she's only 15 which surprises me"
"She's like the sister I've never had" Inuyasha smiled
"Though I think she's like that to all of us" Miroku added. Just as he said this Shippo, Rin and Kirara ran in looking exhausted
"Where's Prince Sesshoumaru?" Rin innocently asked
"He's gone to bed" Sango smiled "And so has Kagome, they're both very tired" She then walked over to the children and lifted them into her arms as Kirara jumped on her shoulder, she began to lose grip of Rin and almost dropped her. Inuyasha saw this and lifted the infant into his arms
"Umm dad do you know where this kid's room is?"
"No but I think she can show you" Inutaisho mused "I think it is about time we all made a move for bed, Totosai you did show them to their rooms didn't you?"
"Yes milord"
"Well then let's all get some sleep, I think we all need some" And with that everyone retired for the night...
During the night Kagome awoke to Sesshoumaru's groans and slight whimpers. She sat up and looked at her distressed mate. He was tossing and turning and his body was covered in sweat "No" He cried "Mother...no...father...help" Kagome tried to shake him awake but he was in too deeply. Luckily for her Inutaisho had also been awoken from his son's cries and entered their chambers immediately
"Kagome what is wrong?"
"I don't know your highness, Sesshoumaru is whimpering and calling to his mother. I believe he is having a nightmare" Inutaisho sat at his son's bedside and placed his hands on his head, he then closed his eyes and looked into the dream his son was in
Sesshoumaru was an infant and was curled up in his mother's lifeless dead arms. Phantom was standing in front of him laughing at the pup who was covered in his mother's blood, Inutaisho watched as Sesshoumaru cried into his mother's kimono "Mommy wake up"
"Sesshoumaru..." Inutaisho's blood boiled at the sight of his mate and the scent of fear that radiated off his heir "PHANTOM" Inutaisho dived forward and ran his claws through his brother's body, he wasn't surprised that his body disappeared after all this was a dream. Sesshoumaru then grew into his normal self as he looked at his father in disbelief
"Father how are you here? How is this different?" Inutaisho walked over to Sesshoumaru and embraced him
"Shh my son, I shall see to it that no more nightmares plague you"
Inutaisho then pulled out of Sesshoumaru's dream and removed his hands from his son's head, he turned to Kagome and smiled "He is fine now Kagome there is no need to worry" Sesshoumaru's eyes slowly opened as he met his father's gaze "You were having a nightmare my son"
"I have the same one every night" The young Prince sat up "This time it was different...you were there"
"Indeed I was" He smiled warmly "I entered you dream and diminished the cause of your distress, that dream shall plague you no longer. I'm sorry that you have endured it since your mother's death"
"How do you know that it was that long?"
"I remember when you were a pup. You entered my chambers one night crying, I pulled you into my embrace and you told me of your dream. I never dared enter your mind then as I was afraid I may harm you at such a young age and I died before I could disperse it when you were of age"
"I see" Kagome crawled over to him and cuddled to his chest, unconsciously he wrapped his arms around her
"Tell me my son have you entered the nursery since your mother's passing?" Sesshoumaru lowered his head so that his bangs covered his eyes
"No. It has been locked with the key in my... I mean your study"
"I assumed you would have opened it for your ward"
"I had another nursery made. Every time I pass the old one I can still smell my mother's blood" Inutaisho gave a small smile and looked up at his son
"So you are the one who locked the nursery" Sesshoumaru then looked at him confused "The room wasn't even cleaned as it was sealed before anyone could get to it, that is why you can smell her blood" Sesshoumaru then met his father's gaze
"So her blood still taints the wall" Inutaisho nodded
"Tomorrow give me the key and we shall go in there together"
"I do not wish to" The Prince's attitude suddenly darkened
"But..."
"Leave me!" Inutaisho sighed and stood
"We shall discuss this tomorrow" He then walked over to the door and left. Kagome could feel Sesshoumaru's anger and sorrow and immediately felt sorry for him, she kissed his neck and rubbed his arms soothingly. He closed his eyes and sighed as he tilted his head back
"You need to relax more Sessh" Kagome stated as she pulled away "Hey I have a great idea" She clapped her hands together "Sit up" He gave her a confused look but complied to her wishes. She then sat behind him and began to massage his shoulders
"Kagome..." He groaned as he felt her work away all of his knots
"Just relax ok" She smiled. He gave a shot nod as he sighed, she noticed his eyes were half lidded and stopped "Sesshoumaru you'll fall asleep if I continue this so lie on your stomach and I shall continue to soothe you" She then slipped from behind him and watched as he lazily lay onto his stomach "Do you mind if I sit on your back?"
"No" He breathed. She then climbed onto his back and began to massage him again, he moaned and groaned softly as she continued. He tried to stay awake but was finding it rather impossible
"You can go to sleep you know, I don't mind" She kissed the tip of his ear causing shivers down his spine
"Kagome...thank you..." His eyes then slid closed and he fell into a deep sleep. When Kagome was sure he was unconscious she lay back down beside him and pulled the covers over them, his head was facing her so she traced his magenta stripes and sighed
"And I thought I had a bad childhood" She whispered "You were there when your own mother was slaughtered" She kissed his crescent moon and snuggled close to him "I'm always here if you need me Sesshoumaru" She then closed her eyes and followed him...
Reviews please
Inuyashasesshy4eva
