Medicine

by Matsuo Hotaru

Lost in a new world Kagome struggles to keep it together after being discarded twice in the past. With the well rejecting her she begins to slowly lose her purpose in life and then two events sent her fleeing from Suna. How will the Kazekage help her if he even can?

2. Chapter 2

Chapter 2

At night he spent time by her side and dozed in the chair, usually nodding off just like this as he did once again after another particularly long day. The council wanted more information on her origins, he had not pushed her for much information but according to the border patrol that found her around a dried up well in an area of ruins, she was insistent that she came from there and they could spot her jumping into it only to come out disappointed. They had thought she was just imagining things, maybe a bit crazy but to him it was clear that she must have come from some other place and may never be able to return home. Feeling tired being his fourth night here and in a few hours five days since he brought her here he propped his elbow on the arm of the chair and rested his head after stifling a yawn.

Waking in a blurry daze she tried to recall what had happened in more detail as she looked around what she recognized to be a hospital room in Suna. Eyes finding Gaara sleeping in a chair next to her bed she could barely recall him from memory while she was going in and out of consciousness in the scorpion's pincers. He looked exhausted as she noticed his face looked paler than normal and drawn. 'What is he doing here,' she thought before looking around the room, 'and why am I here?' Every muscle ached and her limbs felt like lead, she could hardly move them, and with this amount of pain she doesn't want to. Giving a soft exhale she let her mind drift to what she recalled, hoping to figure out what to expect when they are both awake since she can't imagine he would be happy with her. The sound of her movements must have alerted him as his eyes opened and she found those aqua orbs pinned right on her making her thoughts freeze.

Seeing her finally wake up he stood up instantly feeling glad she is showing further signs of recovery as her eyes latched on to him. Grabbing hold of her hand closest to him he gave it a small squeeze and said, "Kagome, forgive me for I have been a fool," he admitted as he looked down at her with regret. Her mouth opened, most likely to refuse such a statement but he hushed her, placing a finger to her lips knowing it hurt and then continued on to say, "Just listen because you deserve an explanation when I had refused to give one before." When she was relaxed once more he started with the first one, "That day at the hospital, I had been there watching you and the others, seeing to what extent you are capable of healing. When you started bursting with power we all became alarmed and felt it rush over us before we were able to stop you. That man, he walked out of the hospital that same day along with every other patient that had been there so you see, you had actually healed everyone but it almost came at a heavy price. When the power subsided you were out cold on the floor and dying. I lost track of how many times they had to resuscitate you and I could do nothing but watch."

He gave a pause as he remembered the way he felt. "I can defend my village, crush almost any opponent, and plan out strategies to win wars and accomplish missions but I could do nothing for you as death repeatedly try to claim you. I had decided then that if you made it out alive I wouldn't let you ever do something that could put your life at such a risk and I knew if you found out just how great of a power you have, it would be near impossible to stop you from trying to do more even at such a high risk. The reason I had stopped your pursuit of becoming a shinobi was also judged on my own feelings and I'm sorry for that. You could have still become one with training in taijutsu but by that point I didn't want to send you out on missions or see you on a battlefield, I just wanted you to remain safe at the village, finding something to do that would not involve any of it. If I had kept a clear head, you never would have had to suffer like you did because I never would have let things get that far and yet my judgements were clouded with my own selfishness."

He stopped and rubbed a thumb along her jaw as he had one last thing to admit to her before he will let her speak or do more than just listen. "Kagome, I had made all of these selfish decisions because I have been falling in love with you. Your determination, those beautiful smiles, and expressive eyes, I couldn't help it any further and I want you to have all of these explanations because you deserved to have them right from the start." Cupping her cheek as he looked into her stunned face, he pressed his lips to hers in a gentle kiss.

He found though that she still couldn't talk and he could see she is still in a lot of pain so he gave her an understanding look. "You will most likely be here for several days yet; your powers became unstable so I was forced to seal them. They undid the progress you had made unfortunately. The medics are still working on healing you but it will take time."

Hearing the quiet talking one came in seeing her awake. Heading to grab the one in charge for the night they reappeared right behind them becoming their assistant. "Kagome, I see you're up and greetings Lord Gaara," they bowed to him before addressing her, "How are you doing, on a scale of 0 to 10 with zero being no pain, what would you rank yours?" They looked at her expectantly seeing her try to talk as her jaw moved and she swallowed painfully to wet her throat. "So I see; looks to me like it would be high up there. I will be back with some salve, we're going to rub it in for the muscles to soak in and relax it. If you can stay awake we will get some food in you," they turned around and left.

Feeling something Kagome looked down at her neck, twitching her finger as she tried to swat the annoying yet familiar feeling. Gaara noticing her facial expression and the direction her eyes are trying to look he moved her hair and found an odd site as this thing started growing until it put its arms up, waving around in a pleading motion as he picked it up. "What are you," he questioned the strange creature.

"Don't squish me please!" The small voice asked, "I am Myouga a flea demon, I had orders to see if this is Lady Kagome. I'm sure she will vouch for me," he implored him with his tiny hands in a praying position.

"She may if she could but I am not satisfied. I have known her for closing in on a year and yet I do not recall hearing about you," he said, hoping that maybe this flea demon has loose lips that might have valuable knowledge on her.

Turning his head to look at Kagome lying motionless for the most part on the bed he had to ask, "What happened to her?"

"That depends on if I find myself satisfied with any answers you have. How do you know her," he demanded, keeping the flea focused and not letting him sidetrack him. Making a cage out of sand he set him in it and set it on the bed. "You will stay in there until I decide to let you out," he firmly stated.

With a sigh he looked down and folded his arms before he sat down ready to talk. "I met Lady Kagome thousands of years ago," he informed him. "She was an untrained Priestess from 500 years in the future, coming back to the Feudal Era where she had traveled with my former young Lord InuYasha on a quest to piece back together a jewel that she destroyed for good later. She left through the well one day when she was 17 and no one had ever sensed her again, she never showed up at home so we assumed the well took her elsewhere and never allowed her to return," he looked her way and could see the tears in her eyes. "Oh Lady Kagome, you have no idea how everyone missed you or how bad, InuYasha especially, regretted the terms you left on. Even Lord Sesshoumaru put great efforts later on to figure out where the well had taken you, you could say he was quite grateful for the knowledge you had given him after Rin had continued to soften his heart and he went through those next centuries. We had watched over the shrine for decades but when you never showed we knew it might be a much longer wait than we expected. Your family sends their love, your Mother requested that I tell you she hopes you're happy wherever you are," she gave a choked sob and Gaara found a soft cloth to wipe them away. "Sango and Miroku had a third daughter that they named in memory of you," he paused when Gaara gave him a look that meant for him to be quiet, one he has seen on Lord Sesshoumaru's face enough times.

"I think that kind of information should wait, she is in a lot of pain if you cannot tell. Crying is only making it worse," he shifted his eyes back to her and continued to wipe them.

Looking her way she did appear to be in quite a bit of pain and he felt foolish for not noticing. "Would you tell me then what is wrong with her, we could possibly help her," he asked him again.

"Who is we and who sent you," he asked, still wanting to be sure he knows who is involved with this.

"Lord Sesshoumaru of course, he is behind a barrier above the village waiting for a signal from me," he quickly replied as if it should be obvious.

"She has never spoken of any of you," he informed him, though it is most likely because it was too painful and now he can see she must have left because she was hurting but instead of going home, she ended up here. "If this Lord Sesshoumaru is behind part of this pain then I do not want him here, she has been through enough if you cannot tell."

Looking uncomfortable and a bit afraid, "I wouldn't deny him anything if I were you. He is far more powerful and still holds a dislike towards humans. Should you keep her from him he would most likely slaughter you and take her," he warned.

"I am Gaara, the Kazekage of this village, it is my duty to protect my people and that includes Kagome," he remained firm in his decision. At the door stood the two medics, "Continue on with your treatment," he moved the cage from the bed so they may have easier access.

"But Lord Gaara you don't understand, he could possibly heal her immediately and she wouldn't be in pain no longer," he pushed wanting to help her. "If I don't give the signal soon he will come down here to see what is holding me up."

"Did he cause her pain," he demanded.

"Well you see they were not always on the same side, at least not at first but she taught him and his ward a lot of what she knows over the course of 15 months, she disappeared shortly after her services was no longer required. He won't want to be kept waiting much longer," he warned the Kazekage.

Narrowing his eyes at the vague answers he finally said, "Then give the signal but you will remain as you are."

"Very well Lord Gaara," he looked over at Kagome, her eyes drying as she looked away from him and he could figure she most likely did not care to see Lord Sesshoumaru. Pulsing his aura twice they were greeted with a sudden draft seconds later as he appeared.

Narrowing his golden eyes at seeing Myouga in a cage he felt a little humor in it. "You kept me waiting Myouga," he slid his eyes around the room looking at everyone before pinning his fierce gaze on the Priestess ignoring him. "Trouble still follows you it would seem Priestess. Are you going to greet me or hold a grudge," he remarked and she returned his gaze with narrowed eyes.

"It would seem she doesn't enjoy your presence," Gaara stated and cast a small glare at the flea.

"She has a human heart, she most likely did not take it well when I casted her from my side in a similar manner to the half breed when she was of no further use to me," he coldly replied barely casting him a glance.

'Then it is no wonder she had taken things hard if this is one of her former companions,' he said while reading the emotions in her eyes. 'She was clinging to the determination of finding a new purpose, to feel like she is still a person that means something to someone,' he looked at her with understanding. Turning back to this new character he informed him, "She cannot speak at this time or move without great pain."

"Myouga, I can only assume you must have said something that caused her tears. I didn't think you had picked up one of InuYasha's traits," his eyes could catch everything going on in the room.

"Yes, sorry Lord Sesshoumaru and Lady Kagome, it was not my intention," he bowed profusely towards them both.

"I am not surprised, what is wrong with her," he demanded, seeing that he is rubbing the auburn haired human wrong.

Nodding at the medics to answer the head one stepped forward. "Almost seven days ago she broke through whatever was restricting her chakra and both of her powers exploded across the village. She had opened two of the eight chakra gates but it had the effect of possibly up to seven gates in pain before her priestess powers kicked in. After coming to the hospital they began erupting once again two days later and devastated her body until Lord Gaara stepped in and sealed them way. She has only been conscious for several minutes since all of this."

"Go ahead and explain the first event as well," he gave authorization to the medic.

Sesshoumaru looked interested in hearing another event as he turned those golden eyes towards the head medic. "Yes Lord Gaara, she did have another event three days prior to what I have told you. She was aiding in the surgery unit for a shinobi with poison and multiple wounds. When his heartrate dropped to 20 beats per minute she had pushed forth more power but it began coming out in strong bursts and no one could get through to her before the strongest one swept through the building. In the aftermath she cured and healed everyone here but she was left in a critical state. We had to resuscitate her a total of 9 times before she was stabilized."

"Remove the seal, I will fix this issue with her powers," he ordered looking at the Kazekage.

Giving him a frown as he crossed his arms with Myouga in his cage on the chair he looked at the demon, "How can you be so sure? This will cause her intense pain if they go wild," he did not feel convinced he could do such a thing so easily.

"I can remove the seal myself but the pain may kill her so make your choice," he returned it, seeing this human is more of the skeptical type.

"Kagome," he turned to her, placing a hand on hers. "Blink twice if you want him to proceed, you are the one that knows him best," he decided as he studied her closely as she thought it over. Blinking twice her decision was made; she must have some reason that she would still trust him even if she hadn't been pleased to see him. "Very well, I will honor your decision," he said and then began going through the numerous signs it would take to prepare his chakra to now release the seal on her powers. Fingers lit once again with his chakra he undid the seal and her powers immediately could be felt churning inside her and building up momentum at the sudden release of the suppression. The light blue and pale lilac flickered forth before coming out in a great burst; he could hear a croak come from her throat in an attempt to scream at the pain. Looking at Sesshoumaru expectantly he could see the red leaking out of him as his keen eyes watched and increased his own powers steadily.

"Is this the extent," he questioned.

"Nowhere near it; every window in the village was shattered, the walls to her apartment gone, and everything shook like there was an earthquake. It basically came out in strong shockwaves before she shot off looking like a comet," he explained the result of her powers clashing that first time.

"I see," he said and let his own power come out rippling forth. Stepping forward he began to suppress them himself as he looked for the problem before bringing out a purple amulet and pressed it to her torso making it swirl and glow. "I have put a limiting seal on her to prevent them from acting out against her control. She will be able to control them but will need to train and meditate to fine tune her control." Her powers stopped raging just before he informed Gaara and the medics of this since she had fallen unconscious yet again. He began to draw a sword out but was stopped by the Kazekage using sand to hold his hand still, "Unhand me human," he barked out.

"Why are you drawing a sword," he doesn't trust this demon lord but he does trust Kagome's judgement.

"That is Tenseiga Lord Gaara, that sword can harm the minions of hell, it can bring the dead back to life, and also heal," Myouga had quickly spoke up and reluctantly he dropped his sand's hold on him.

With a slash across her the pain still visible upon her brow had eased away. Holding her hand Gaara waited for any further sign while the medics stepped forth and checked on her. Hands glowing green they scanned for the damage that had been there but was now rapidly healing until it was completely gone. "She is completely healed Lord Gaara," they quickly informed him feeling astonished and eyeing that sword he had already sheathed.

"Tell the Priestess I will be seeing her again when she wakes. Myouga you are dismissed to do as you please," he said and then suddenly departed before anyone could say a thing.

Now he has had a small glimpse into her past. Bringing the cage to the bed he released the flea demon. "You may stay if you wish," he said down to him and then sat on the chair after sitting it closer to the bed, he is glad this will most likely be his last night sitting in the chair.

"I will get her release forms ready," the medics then left the room.

Myouga jumped on the bed rail and looked down at her saying, "She certainly is something. I have seen her in three different time periods now. Is she on some quest again Lord Gaara," he asked, wondering why she would be here now.

"No, she was discovered by a returning border patrol unit trying to jump in a well repeatedly and had thought the desert weather must have affected her mental health so they brought her to Suna but would never really say anything about her past, just that she wanted to go home. I suppose she gave up on that thought and decided to try and maintain some piece of her previous life by seeing if she could be a shinobi but we couldn't get her chakra to come out. Her purifying powers only heal; they do not harm us so up until those incidents that is what she had been doing. I hadn't realized then but I do now, she was losing her sense of purpose and clinging to anything that might make her feel better… It was my fault she ended up like this, I didn't know keeping the hospital incident from her and taking away the possibility of being a shinobi would put her over the edge to where they would be forced out… I just want her to be safe in Suna, not out there in a world foreign to her fighting for her life," he finished with holding one of her hands in between his hands. "It was foolish that I didn't read the signs correctly or that she was really shouldering a heart that felt like it is bleeding even though she was so determined and smiling."

"That would be Lady Kagome alright," he looked up at the male, seeing the affection in his gaze aimed her way. "She was the heart of the group, always willing to do what is right, give a smile, and be helpful. She had several companions, they were on a quest to restore the jewel that came out of her and defeat a half demon that went by Naraku. I had thought InuYasha would have asked her to marry him, she had promised to stay by his side so long as he let her but a month after the final battle he cast her from it and never spoke to her again. It was only days later that Sesshoumaru approached her about her teaching Rin the basics and him about what to expect in the future but he in a similar manner had approached her and cast her from his side abruptly. She had sacrificed much, just about her entire life in the modern era but she just kept pushing forward and then one day we realized she hadn't been around, InuYasha said her scent ended at the well and he could no longer get through. He shouldered a lot of guilt for the way they had parted and it hit him very hard when she never showed on the other side." He sighed, thinking of the stubborn half demon that was never the best in his relationships with others; he had certainly been lonely and very guilty after that.

"If he felt so bad why did he let her go in the first place," he tried to understand, maybe see that there is more to it and in turn learn more about her.

"Most likely because he felt she deserved better but had trouble expressing it and sorting out his own feelings. You see, Kagome is the reincarnation of his former love and with a chunk of her soul Kikyo was brought back as the undead to roam the land of the living once more until Naraku ended her existence again. It was a love triangle but Kagome was InuYasha's first true friend to accept him as he is; a half demon. Most, including his older half-brother Lord Sesshoumaru, had despised him for it and so he grew up fighting for his life. Anyways to get back on track, it was easy to see that Kagome was slowly having a hard time telling if he sees Kikyo when he looks at her, see her, or just a jewel shard detector. He called her enough names, even Lord Sesshoumaru never referred to her as Kagome as far as I know. She even had an admirer, a wolf demon by the name of Koga who often called her, 'my woman.' Right from day one in our era she was often called something other than her name and I could tell it was slowly changing something in her but I don't think many noticed. She has always been such a lovely girl and so very loyal, wearing her heart on her sleeve," he trailed off in his description of her, hoping she might still be like that. Glancing up at the auburn haired male he pondered the possibility on if she is here to +er bleeding heart through this male that he could see cares deeply for her.

He was quiet for a few minutes, his mind thinking over what information the flea demon had just given him on a past she felt too pained to speak about. His fingers softly caressed the back of her hand as he softly declared, "So she may continue to be herself I will be the one to protect her and her soft heart."

"That is quite the vow," Myouga acknowledged though he had no clue how he will go about doing so.

"I can make such a vow because I love her and have already told her. Now that I know she needs a purpose just like I had once sought for one, I will ensure she finds one," he was quick to decide although to him she has a purpose of being happy which would in turn make him happy.

He hummed as he folded his little arms, "Well I am going to get going while she is resting peacefully. I will be back soon to visit with her, it is nice to see a familiar face from way back then. Have a good night Lord Gaara," he bowed to him.

"Good night Myouga, it was nice to meet you," he watched him jump out the window and was soon flying away on a crow.

"Kagome, maybe one day you will open up to me when I prove myself to you," he whispered to her as he began to feel the pull of sleep again while he waited on those release papers. It felt nice to finally see her face look so relaxed and it made him feel like maybe he can find a way for her to feel like she has a new home here, even if it doesn't turn out to be him that she shares hers life with, not that he will give up by any means until that day comes.

"Lord Gaara, I have the papers set," the medic said as they came in, taking him out of his thoughts.

Perking up a little bit he signed the release paper and took the rest before standing up feeling stiff. After they left he turned towards her while he waited for them to take her off the equipment. She was soon in his arms while he walked down the halls and out the door when he suddenly realized, her apartment is practically a covered balcony. Seeing a familiar face he was soon greeted by Baki.

"Lord Gaara," he greeted a bit surprised to see them out there in the early A.M. when she had been in poor condition. "Should she be out of the hospital already?"

"Yes, she is healed," he responded, surprising him. "I will explain when the council meets but I just realized she doesn't have anywhere to go," he looked around tiredly. "I think she will have to stay with me until we figure something out."

"That would make things a bit difficult, I am guessing something must have happened then for her to suddenly be well," he prodded, still having a hard time seeing her now totally well.

Looking at him, not up for questioning he simply said, "More than you know. The meeting will be held after lunch, I am retiring for the night. Goodnight Baki," he then departed home and left his former teacher outside the hospital doors. 'How will she react to being in my home,' he questioned himself. She will most likely wake up after he is already at the office so he will have to leave a note. Setting her in the spare room for when his sister visits he made sure she was comfortable before laying down in his own bed for the first time in more than a couple days and soon fell asleep.

When the mid-morning sunshine was able to finally rouse her from sleep she had felt quite confused, almost thinking she was waking in her bed but realizing this was not her room but still obviously Suna since she could see the buildings outside of the window. The pain gone, her powers there but under control, she thought she had some form of memory loss since something big must have happened. Pulling the covers off she slowly began to get up when she noticed a note for her.

Kagome,

You have been released from the hospital due to the Tenseiga's healing powers. You are in a spare bedroom of my home, feel free to stay and help yourself to the kitchen; I will most likely be home late.

-Gaara

'Oh yeah, Sesshoumaru and Myouga found me at the hospital. Lord Gaara had been there keeping watch over me,' she thought, remembering his admittance to the real reason behind his actions and his declaration. 'I didn't just dream that did I,' she thought it over, touching her lips and swearing the contact was real.

Sitting there a moment longer she figured she should get around to finding the bathroom before her bladder explodes. After she left the room she checked the one door that was left open and bingo, she found the bathroom thankfully. Emptying her bladder alone was a major relief for her. Seeing the shower it didn't have anything beyond a bar of soap so she guessed this is the one for guests, he must have a private bathroom. 'I stink,' she thought while she washed her hands. Making a quick decision she decided to take a partial shower; rinse her hair, wash her body, and scrub her clothes. Lord Gaara would most likely appreciate her being a hygienic type rather than deal with any body odor in his home and on his furniture. Mind made up she stripped, dumping her clothes into the tub before turning the water on and waiting for it to adjust while she hunts down a comb or something to help with her hair. Seeing one with a few blonde hairs she figured it would be a good idea to clean the brush later so whoever's brush this is doesn't get too offended.

Her eyes landed on the toothpaste and it was like a chorus of angels singing in her ears as she grabbed that too knowing she can make do with a finger for the time being. Combing through her hair she had some really bad knots in it and she thought maybe it might be time to start thinking about cutting the length; she hasn't done so in over a year so her usually mid-back locks are now long enough that she could sit on the tips, not a comfortable feeling. Slipping in under the spray of water she could see all the dirt and sand coming off her body making her feel even more disgusted with how filthy she really was. Grabbing the soap she began scrubbing, even did her best to wash the grime out of her hair with it even though it didn't leave her hair feeling soft and silky. Rinsing her hand off of the suds as she sat the soap down for the time being she was quick to focus on brushing her teeth while her body rinsed off under the spray. No one will ever call her stinky again unless of course she suddenly got a spray of demon guts which will probably never happen again, not that she is complaining. Then she felt depressed knowing she is still in some era far from her own but her heart felt a little better knowing that Sesshoumaru and Myouga had clearly survived the time span, he barely looked older than drinking age now.

Kneeling down she grabbed the bar of soap and began scrubbing her clothes, the days of the past where she often washed them in the river coming to mind as her hands moved with practiced skill at ridding her clothes of the dirt and odors they accumulated. How on Earth did anyone manage to be around her when it bothered even her nose? Arms flexing as she continued on, being careful about the hole in the back of her shirts from the scorpion's stinger while her mind drifted off to what she could recall, catching a glimpse of Lord Gaara using his sand to most likely take it down with ease. He must have shown right after it had her in both pincers otherwise she would have been torn into pieces. Why was he so concerned with her?

"…I had made all of these selfish decisions because I have been falling in love with you…" that memory from the hospital solved that question. Her heart fluttered and she fisted a hand over it as she paused in her actions as his soft voice went through her head making her feel lighter if not uncertain since her feelings had never been returned before but then again he is his own person, not that other person.

All those times he practiced with her having nothing but patience whereas the instructors eventually began to groan yet she couldn't give up, it wasn't in her at the time because she knew already what was on the line. Up until the hospital incident he had let her keep trying, never saying a negative thing even though he was not about to let her go through weapons training when time after time she either nearly killed someone or herself with her clumsy nature. The only thing he ever did let her touch were the kunai he insisted she keep as a just in case thing because he didn't want her to be without a tool that might be needed someday when he is not around. Many times he found her by a tree over by the greenhouse studying, giving her a pop quiz to keep her on her toes as the only thing that gave away his sudden presence was a quick swirl of sand. She had to fight down her blush time and time again when he would give her that look, one that showed she had made him pleased about whatever she did. Though he became her main teacher he always issued her more reading assignments to keep her busy as he would randomly appear to get on with the rest of her lesson and create surprise clones to defend against, keeping her on guard though she had a feeling he really just enjoyed scaring the bejesus out of her. On more than one occasion she accused him of her keeping her around just for amusement when she would get frazzled.

Her mind conjured up the memory of the time she already had her nose stuck in a book, reading along as she made her way to her spot and came face to face with him as he suddenly appeared upside down on a limb. "Lord Gaara," she cried out stumbling backwards until she fell on her rear and she swore his lips twitched in a smile while she huffed and shot him a glare. She had never really realized then just how playful he actually is, it always appeared as something else, easy for her to misinterpret due to his status and the way he always held himself in a more serious or solemn yet dignified manner. Through those days she always needed to have a reason to look at him instead of stealing glances because his eyes seemed to notice everything around them, his senses so fine-tuned that she knew she would be caught immediately if she tried. The one time during the day that she could look at him was from a distance at night when he would stand atop the Kazekage tower looking out over the village receiving most likely any final verbal reports. It would be about that time every night that she would head to bed, turning off her lights not really realizing how much he was actually watching her place in particular, seeing her close up the books after marking the page, straighten out her notes, and anything else before she would head off to bed with a tired stretch. Never did she know how often those aqua eyes and other senses were really just trained on her.

When she finished scrubbing her clothes and wringing them out she realized a big error on her part as she stood in the tub basically drip drying. She never found a bath towel, has no spare clothes and all of this equated to her being nude until her clothes dry. Though the note said he would be home late, it never said he wouldn't be stopping by to check in on her so what on Earth is she going to do if he suddenly pops in finding her naked? Her clothes could not dry fast enough; it will take hours for them to do so. On top of that the windows to the bedroom he put her in are all wide open so anyone could look in and see her in the nude until she made her way to the drapes. A particular Disney movie came to mind then, a scene from the Little Mermaid where Ariel was in the nude after turning human and they found some washed up shipwreck material to wrap around her. It would be humiliating should someone see her but she could grab the sheet off the bed and just sit on the bed until her clothes dried.

Her afternoon passed by in a reflective manner as she worked through her own mental set of issues knowing that at this point she will have to try and bear with it for a while longer. The pain in her had eased up now that she knows what happened at the hospital and with the knowledge of his feelings towards her she could assume it must have really upset him. He didn't want to see her nearly die on him multiple times like she apparently did, her body for some reason failing on her after exerting that much power and she really didn't understand why it had done so. Never has she ever had such an issue before, she usually didn't even get all that fatigued, was just simply low or out on her purifying powers so why was this time any different than the rest? Had she unknowingly done something when she switched it over to a healing power rather than one meant to destroy evil? He will most likely not want to have her testing any theories out while in his home so instead of doing something that might give her answers she instead remained on the bed spending a lot of time thinking and dozing off throughout the afternoon as she ignored the hunger pangs until she could wear at least enough clothes to be decent walking around the house.

She sat at the kitchen table holding a book she found on the bookshelf downstairs, one about a shinobi name Naruto looking to find peace and seize it if it exists. She wondered if Gaara believes in peace, he seems to be the type with the way he appears to run the village, not being the type to run people ragged or make unfair demands from her experience. Hand reaching for another slice of the persimmon she sliced up her fingers reached nothing but the leftover juices, with a light pout she set the book down to wash the now empty dish and put it away. Picking the book up she was soon settled back into the story, already at the halfway point in the story as it continued to keep her interested.

The front door opened and Gaara could see her look up from the table where she held that inspirational book that Naruto introduced him to. It would be nice to gather her thoughts on the story and meaning once she is finished reading it. "How have you been today," he asked her as he made his way to join her at the table.

"I have been good, thank you for giving me a place to stay," she was about to give him a more formal greeting but he gave her the motion that he basically uses to have people be at ease. She shut the book placing it on the table to give him her full attention, not really sure what to do or say.

"You're welcome; I rarely have company so it is nice to come in the door and see someone here rather than empty walls." Looking down at the book he asked, "How far have you gotten in the book?"

"About half way, sorry for just picking it up to read," she replied, realizing it might have come off as rude.

"I don't mind, anything of importance is kept at the Kazekage Tower. That book is actually quite important; my friend Naruto introduced me to it. That is where he was given his namesake from actually. When you're finished I will have a story to tell you about it." He looked down at it thinking about the war that has thankfully brought this deep connection among the major villages and brought them a little closer to understanding the plight of the smaller villages. "Today I received word from the Hidden Rain village, it has become more stable and the leader would like to join in on the next exams to try and form a stronger connection between the villages and also start doing joint missions as well. A lot of this was started because of that book." He shared the news, another milestone in this achievement for peace.

"Have you ever met Jiraiya then, he sounds like a good person," she commented as she looked at the about the author section of the book, finding this to be his first novel.

"No, he died but he was the teacher to Naruto's Father Minato, the Fourth Hokage, and Naruto's mentor and Godfather. Naruto will someday soon be the Seventh Hokage after Lord Kakashi steps down and appoints him. He will continue to bring great change to the shinobi world," he felt confident in that, he will be someone that Kagome should meet as well as his sister. "If you don't mind I would rather you remain here as my guest for the time being, your apartment hasn't been fixed yet and I personally want you here."

"Don't you think the council and others would have a problem with that, I mean you're the Kazekage and I just damaged the village, it would probably be best I leave. I can only assume how much work and the cost accumulated to or the people injured because of me," she looked down at the table, even after her clothes were mostly dry, minus the top shirt, she felt hesitant to go out there unsure how well she would be received.

He studied her from across the table for a long moment and then got up, walking over to her and crouching down on to the balls of his feet as he softly said, "I am to blame for that, not you," he could see that she didn't agree with that. "When we accepted you to stay in the village you became my responsibility and as a leader, as a teacher I had failed to realize something that should have been clear to me right from the start. Now I want to repair the damage I helped to cause, that I had unknowingly inflicted on your heart," he looked up at her stormy eyes, seeing them avert to look at her lap instead of meeting his gaze as she began wringing her hands.

"My heart…" she questioned feeling unsure.

"Yes, your heart because it is so very beautiful and I want you to continue being this beautiful person without fear of the hurt that could come," he looked up at her with sincere eyes. "Kagome your heart has been bleeding for a long time," he placed his palm over it making her look at it as she paused wringing her hands, "and I will protect it so your heart may finally heal because the only medicine for a wounded heart is the love you can receive from another. Even should you choose another I will always do my best to protect it," he had already decided and began to get up, his lips pressing against her forehead.

"Gaara wait, - I," she grabbed the front of his shirt, keeping him from leaving as she felt very nervous, her remaining hand wrinkling the hem of her shirt as she looked down at her lap before she felt him crouch down in front of her again, drawing her gaze back to him.

"Go ahead Kagome," he reassured her, feeling her hand let go of his shirt and join the other in wrinkling the bottom hem of her shirt.

"I-," she stuttered again, eyes going back to her lap as a dusting of pink settled across her cheeks making her look more attractive in his opinion. She leaned just a little forward before stopping her actions as she glanced at his lips looking shy.

Coming to the realization of what is on her mind he had to chuckle to himself before he said as he closed the distance, "if you want to kiss me then just do it," he surprised her with the sensual murmur as he claimed her lips, hand keeping her head right where he wants it. This kiss was more intense than the gentle one in the hospital, laced with his desire and passion for her as he kept in charge and pulled her body off the chair as he knelt down on to his knees, easing her to lie down as he could care less that they are on his dining room floor he only wants her to feel what he is communicating to her through this kiss that led to even more passionate ones.

When he finally broke away to let her breathe he collected his breath before laying a blazing trail of passion running down her neck, hearing her moan at how good his lips felt as her small hands began to wrap around his back feeling the muscles moving under there. This is his chance to start making a good impression on her and let her know just how good he can make her feel, how loved and treasured she is. The passionate make-out continued on for several minutes as he coaxed her into responding more and let her own feelings become communicated through the contact of their lips. For once in his life he wanted to do the age old act of sex, his body telling him now is the right time but his mind saying no, it felt frustrating but at the same time exhilarating, even more so that he has her reacting and becoming needy of him keeping this up. He felt powerful, immensely so with everything about her screaming her enjoyment and desire for more.

Certainly he could have picked a better spot than the floor but he couldn't have imagined that things would have led them this far. As they began to calm, the flames of desire slowly dying to a flicker they shared a gentle kiss as he drew back just enough for him to take a breath and deliver one more kiss that spoke of his passion. Not until he drew back until he could see her swollen lips as she gazed at him still coming down from the desire he aroused in her did he realize it wasn't enough. With a hand still cushioning her head he brought her up to meet his hungry lips as the satisfaction he had been gaining was wiped away after he looked down at her slightly labored form, eyes beseeching him for another kiss.

She woke the following morning still in his arms where he held her anchored tightly against him, his light, warm breaths barely being felt on the top of her head as she could see out the window that the sun's rays are only just now reaching their horizon. She pressed back against him with her arms wrapped around a pillow, feeing his arms shift ever so slightly to mold her against him even more. Last night was like a dream to her, it felt too good to be reality but waking up to feeling like he is holding on to something he could never bear to part with had quickly solidified it really did occur. The hard planes of muscle that he gained from a life of being a shinobi could be felt through her shirt as arms holding the strength of steel helped to cushion her head as the other remained wrapped around her trim waist possessively.

'I could get used to this feeling,' she thought, not really thinking of the fact this is her village leader she is in bed with. It should have bothered her by now but last night he went from Lord Gaara, someone on a pedestal to not pursue, to being Gaara with his sincere and caring words wrapping her in a world of bliss that she does not want to escape and be thrust back to reality. In her mind right now he is just Gaara, the man she felt bad for fostering feelings for but turns out they have been reciprocated. Later she can feel bad about it but for right now she refused to leave this slice of paradise.

Stirring, his hold adjusted a little as he stretched without fully releasing her, his arms returning to their hold as his mouth pressed hot kisses to the side of her neck and she couldn't help but let him hear how good they felt on the sensitive skin there. "Morning," he mumbled to her as he nearly groaned at seeing the lightening of the sky but instead pulled her to lie on her back as he captured her lips, his passion the night before surging forth as he sought to fan the still flickering flames. Her arms were quick to release the pillow in exchange for wrapping around him as she enjoyed the attention and deepening sense of bliss. It was like he said, the only medicine for a wounded heart is love and he wants to give it to her or protect it until another can. Right now she can feel it being applied.

That was how day two here started and she had basked in the afterglow of his affection for another hour until she finally dragged herself out of his bed and quickly made it nice and neat. Having been shown where the towels and other things are she settled on taking a hot shower now that she finally can address all of her hygienic needs. If not for the dry climate she would have been an even worse mess but thankfully she only needs more moisturizer in this climate to keep her skin keep feeling nice.

In the shower she reflected on these past several days and remembered her time out in the desert, she is certain Gaara had been the reason those pincers didn't tear her apart. Along with that hazy memory of him asking if she can talk, it was clear to her he must have been the one to go after her. Running a finger down her neck, following the same trail his lips had she could almost feel them on her again. Never does she want this feeling to end, it felt too good to let go and he has been so straightforward in his words and actions that she felt them to be sincere. The way those black lined eyes would look at her felt so intoxicating he could so easily put her under a spell and she would fall willingly into it. Grabbing the wash cloth she felt hesitant to use it in those areas that his lips had graced but knew she is just being ridiculous and she felt certain that they will most likely grace it again.

Gaara sat in the meeting he was forced to reschedule due to being needed for other things and some council members unable to attend the original one. Listening to Sajo say, "So you're telling us this Priestess that has been taken into our village after being found jumping into a well is actually a time traveler from thousands of years ago and she not been able to return?"

"Yes," he replied. "That is what was said so her earlier claims to the reason she was jumping into it are valid. Her powers also now have a limiting seal to prevent them from going wild again." That piece of information would make a few of them feel better about her being in the village.

"Then the priestess could still be of great use to us," Ryusa said before expanding on his statement. "I do not see her becoming a shinobi and going on missions to be the best option but instead remain in the village as a healer."

Joseki shook his head, "If her powers are now under control we should have her trained to go on missions where they would need a great healer to prevent casualties. She should be trained to go on A and S rank missions to ensure their success," he countered and Gaara felt a frown tug at his lips, really not liking that idea when he would rather she be in his bed with him every night, not keeping him awake worried every time she is gone.

"That would be crass," Sajo replied to him in disagreement, "That would be like the Leaf Village sending Sakura or Tsunade to their own possible deaths time and time again when they could be of better use in the village treating several."

"Securing the lives of our higher rank shinobi should be a priority when they are out on missions, she could be the solution to what we are looking for," Joseki pushed but was not getting the reaction he would have hoped for.

Ryusa brought up, "Is she not already seventeen?" Getting validation in the form of a nod from Gaara he pushed on, "She may have been taught things and studied these last nine months, was even in battle countless times as an archer, but is it not foolish to expect a peaceful Priestess no less to suddenly become a high-level jonin in a world still new to her. She has never even been beyond the borders or fought against a shinobi so I believe trying to create a weapon out of someone like her would be a grave mistake. She may not take well to the thought of ever killing another human should the need arise. It is true she already has battle experience but the way they fought and we fight are quite likely very different and also the terrain. By the time she would be ready to take on these missions she would be even older and at the age where most settle down and get married so I believe a healer is best."

"We have those who can give her intensive training and a lot of the work has already been done, she just needs the training to condition her. By this time next year she could be ready and on missions, her reserves are already strong," he remained firm in his thoughts of the usage of the Priestess.

"There is more I have yet to tell you," Gaara informed them, Baki turned towards him with great interest in maybe finally getting his answers. "Should the village try to force anything on her she has a strong ally that would likely come to her aid," he dropped the startling news.

"How," several of them said.

"I never said where I got my information from earlier, it was not her mouth because she was either awake unable to speak or unconscious. She is allies with a demon lord, Lord Sesshoumaru and I didn't even know his servant, a flea demon was in the room until it became clear something was bothering her neck. They came to verify it is her and informed me they will be back. The demon lord was above the village behind a barrier and no one even knew it. You didn't even feel him when he was right there in the hospital room with me, putting his own seal on her and healing her body. I will say this, he is not someone to take lightly," he advised them, using this as his ace to cement in the minds of others that Kagome will only do what she wishes and he will not go the route Joseki has been pushing.

"That is how she was healed so fast then," Baki looked at him," but how did he do it, she needed at least another week in there?"

"A sword, it can kill the minions of hell, bring the dead back to life, and heal; the Tenseiga," he shared with them. "He did it most likely in gratitude of their previous interactions and has been looking for her ever since she disappeared. They could be back any day at any moment to speak with her again; I do not want them to receive any harassment from the guards. He has long silver hair, gold eyes, taller than me by a few inches, magenta marking on his cheeks and eyes, a blue crescent moon upon his brow, claws, and pointed ears. He held four swords, two of them being on his back and a large white fur boa upon his right shoulder over his clothes and armor." He let that description sink into their minds and his age being far greater than even their countries. "I will speak with Kagome and she will choose her future on her own."

In a dark atmosphere Sesshoumaru sat at his desk listening to the report he was given by Myouga who had spied on the meeting to see what the Priestess's future might contain should she remain in that village. "I see… then it is best I drop in soon to make an impression, it would seem the Kazekage is hoping I too will keep her from being pushed into their affairs."

"Not only that Lord Sesshoumaru but I believe Lord Gaara has fallen in love with Lady Kagome and she now currently resides at his home since hers was destroyed. I plan on visiting her tomorrow so she may hear of everyone's words and anything she may want to know." Myouga informed him from on top of Lord Sesshoumaru's desk.

"Continue as you are, I will be visiting them soon," he decided.

That night when Gaara finally finished his work at the office he headed on home hoping she just might still be awake. Entering the house he headed straight for the kitchen seeing a small note. Apparently she had cooked dinner for the both of them tonight and has his waiting in the fridge. He found the gesture very nice; it has been a long time since someone has cooked him a meal minus grabbing something from in the village. Heating it up he was able to taste her cooking, taking a casual note of the spices added in to give it the right touch meaning she must have had some classes or teachings on it because he wished he could have had seconds by the time he was finished.

On his way back to the front of his home he spotted the dark locks on his couch, she must have wanted to hear him walk in when she chose to lay there since he could think of no other reason she wouldn't be in a bed. She looked so comfortable lying in the fetal position he wasn't sure if he wanted to disturb her but also reasoned she could end up upset if he doesn't do anything. Kneeling down he rubbed a hand up and down her bare arm and shoulder causing her to stir a little. Giving her a kiss he let his hand drift down her side going over her waist and up her hips then backtracking as she released a breath in a sigh that turned into a small moan. Moving his lips across hers he pulled her out of dream land.

Her eyes opened at half-mast giving her a sultry look as she moved sluggishly beginning to respond as his hand drifted back down to her hip giving a small squeeze that he noticed she responded with more vigor afterwards. His hand slipped under her arms and shoulders, lifting her up until her legs wrapped around him. Navigating through his home primarily by memory and the use of sand to measure every step he steadily made his way up to his bedroom, wanting her curvaceous form pressed up against him in bed just the same as the night before. Bending over across his bed until her back touched he pulled away just long enough for him to shed his robe, draping it across the bed for the time being and going right back to the missionary position. Soft hands greeted his muscled torso like a gentle caress with eyes shyly looking at it with a permanent blush stained on her cheeks.

"Do you like what you see Ka-go-me," he gave a husky whisper as his eyes raked over her shamelessly as she looked up at him with a deeper stain to her cheeks.

"Lord Gaara," she responded with a squeak and averted her gaze.

Eyes sliding back up at hers he held her chin, running his thumb along her jaw as he said, "Should I call you Lady Kagome," he questioned and gained her eyes back on his as she shook her head no, "then don't you think a title in a name puts the person at a distance," he followed up with another question and received a nod so he finished with, "then let's keep things on a personal level because I am pursuing you in hopes of a life partner, not a mistress or concubine."

His thumb caressed her lips, pulling on the bottom one as he looked at it with desire, replacing his thumb with his lips. His hands kept their lower bodies in firm contact as he created a juicy friction, swallowing the noises she made as they began to head down the path of learning how their bodies respond with him as the primary instigator of the actions. With a gasp she pulled from his lips with labored breathing, moaning as he sucked hard on her bottom lip, while his thumbs firmly stroked the crease between the front of her thighs and pelvis area, the tips just barely brushing against her labia. "Gaara," she moaned feeling more heated, a steady burning down there being fanned as he kept up the friction between their private parts.

He treated her with a kiss and preoccupied his mouth with her neck. Having been suppressing his feelings for her these last several months he had a hard time keeping it in now that he has started to let it out. "You should just live here with me," he said, already knowing he will have a hard time parting at night now that he has a taste of what it would be like to hold her in his arms as they slept on his bed night after night. "I want to hold you in my arms every night so what would be the purpose of you getting a new place when I plan to do that regardless," he reasoned and lifted himself from her as they began to cool their jets. "I'd demand it but I know you well enough that I know you would turn around and do the opposite," his lips lifted in a small smile.

"I totally would," she agreed honestly and smiled up at him.

Kissing her lips he said, "Thank you for dinner, I really appreciated it."

"I should do something, I have nothing else to do now," she frowned a little.

He brushed his knuckles along her cheekbones knowing she most likely is bored with nothing to do all day now. Humming he walked away trying to think of something to keep her entertained, deciding to brush his teeth and get ready for bed. "Let me think for a moment," he assured her so she doesn't think he is ignoring her. Mind thinking of all the jobs in the village that he assigns he tried to think of something she could do that he wouldn't find risky to her health.

She sat up on the bed feeling a little relief that he is putting thought into it while she listened to him brush his teeth. It will take some time for her to really get used to this change between them. From day one of being here she has known him as the young village leader, the KazeKage Lord Gaara. He monitored her trainings from time to time before basically taking over and starting on trying to release the chakra from her but everything turned from one failure to the next, day after day for months and it was only her desperation that kept her aiming towards an unclear goal, just wanting to feel like she is doing something that would make her useful to those around her.

"Kagome," he called to her from the bathroom, "Do you really know what it means to become a shinobi, what you were asking for?"

"Uh, well I assumed I would be fighting to defend the village from invaders and things like that," she answered, "like when I travelled around collecting shards and would defend a village from demons and protect people."

"Kagome, you would have to be willing to kill another person, a human being," he told her, "demons are one thing but could you honestly kill someone of your own species that will not just turn to ash but would instead bleed?"

"Kill a person," she said slowly. Only that one time with the bandits did even InuYasha kill a person. "I couldn't," she admitted, looking down at her lap unaware that he is now watching her from the bathroom doorway.

"There is a religion called Ninshu, the precursor to Ninjutsu. The Sage of Six Paths created it, distributing chakra so one could connect with another to better understand each other without words but it was instead used to connect the spiritual and physical energies together to be used as a weapon. I do know of some jutsus that could go either way, being used to help around or for attack should the need arise. They would be just basic things like creating a waterfall or making a clone. As you know I personally do not want you to be a shinobi and most of the council agrees and would rather you eventually return to the hospital. If you can give me a couple days to get more work out of the way we will begin your training and I might have a few options for you to choose from but Lord Sesshoumaru said you will need to meditate and train to fine tune your control on both powers so that is something you could do until then." He walked out, put his robe away, and climbed on to the bed behind her wrapping his arms around her as he rested his chin on her shoulder. This feeling of being able to unwind and enjoy it with another made him feel better after all of the same day in and out activities of being the Kazekage, always returning to an empty home. Not only did he experience what it would be like to hold her all night but he was also able to experience twice what it would be like to come home to her and though the place was still quiet he knows it is not empty now. Kissing the juncture of her neck he began kissing up until he reached her jaw and requested, "Please at least consider staying here with me."

She twisted her head to look at him, wondering why he wants her to stay so bad and debating whether or not she should just ask since it isn't like she had elsewhere to go. "I will," she decided but didn't see where she really had a choice because like he said, her apartment was destroyed and she doubted the others wanted her back as a neighbor.

Hugging her a little tighter he pecked her cheek. "We should get our sleep," he let her get in first and climbed under the covers behind her once again pulling her snugly against his chest feeling the warmth of her body heat. Neither could sleep even though they felt comfortable.

"Gaara," she softly called out his name as she decided maybe she should learn what is outside of this village and their country.

"Hm," he replied, propping himself up on an elbow.

"Could you tell me what it is like beyond the desert? In my time I lived in a huge city named Tokyo located in Japan, it was formerly the village Edo where I often rested between travels. My era though was quite advanced in some parts but not everywhere around the globe. We had cars, trucks, buses, subways, skyscrapers, movie theatres, phones, video games, and just a lot of technology, it was everywhere you looked. Does yours have anything like that?" Since desert areas in her time didn't tend to have as much to do with technology as places like Tokyo, Seoul, New York, and other great cities she figured that maybe it is like that here possibly.

"I have heard of video games when traveling, we have theatres, trains, ships, computers, and different things like that. Konoha is more focused on technology than we have been but that is particularly because I have other matters to focus my attention on," he told her, not really sure what else is out there. "Oh and they have skyscrapers now as well, the next time I need to make a trip I will take you with me," he told her thinking about introducing her to his sister as well.

"Thanks, I would really like that," her left hand lay on his arm wrapped around her, rubbing her hand across it a little as her mind turned towards her family shrine before thinking of the one thing that still exists from her era. "That well," she suddenly said getting his attention.

His eyes focused on her, feeling her draw some random design on his arm most likely due to nerves. 'Is she going to tell me something,' he questioned as he waited for her to continue speaking as it grew quiet once again.

"It," she paused trying to keep in control of her voice, "It is the last thing I have out there that stood up to the testaments of time. It was there in Edo, on my family's shrine in Tokyo, and now it is surrounded by sand but here nonetheless. The Bone Eater's Well…" she trailed off looking out the window at the night sky.

"Kagome, thank you for sharing that with me," he said down to her feeling her snuggle more into him as they lie there. Snaking an arm under her head he wrapped his arms around her, smelling her washed hair as he began to drift off to sleep with her on his mind.

The following day had come with her waking only once earlier still feeling his bare torso pressed against her as he slowly woke up with the sun. As soon as it was clear she had already woken up he began kissing the bare areas on her neck and shoulder as a leg came up and was used to roll her on to her back. Lying down on top of her he tangled their legs as he swept her up into a passionate haze with the sky growing lighter, a mixture of yellow and blue with the sun on the horizon. She drifted back to sleep after he got out of bed to dress for work, barely recalling him kissing her cheek as he left the room.

Though no one would know since he still projects a solemn exterior more so out of habit, he felt happy. Last night was a milestone in his eyes, the first she has ever spoken of her past and he didn't even have to try, she brought it up on her own. These last few days had brought him plenty to be happy about from having someone to show his true self to and coming home to finding dinner already made to falling asleep and waking up to her in his arms. Life without her would be hard to live in such a happy state if not impossible. To think he is now able to keep finding more happiness and he feels as the days turn to months and years she will only continue to make him happy, giving him so much joy that as a child he would have been able to see those years of pain as worth it if he is to be happy like this later on in his life. Walking down the halls with the council and other shinobi with him he went about his day in a truly good mood as he looked up at the sky, pausing, to see a couple small birds fly by outside the window, spinning and flapping their wings as if they were dancing. A small smile made its way to his lips, surprising the ones around him as he watched the birds feeling like they are a sign of the future and what they could have together, a future free from the pain that haunts them.

Arriving home earlier than usual in hopes that maybe he could beat her to the cooking tonight, finding the thought of actually being able to cook for another to be quite uplifting in his already good spirits. The smell of food was absent and as he shut the door he was going to head up and change clothes until he thought he heard crying. Going around the wall to look in the living room he could see the cold tea out, looking as if she had company while she sat on the couch hiding her teary face behind her hands.

"Kagome," he looked down at her with a small frown.

Her red, puffy eyes looked up at him before she cried out his name desperately, "Gaara," she ran into his arms, slumping against him as she sobbed. He was quick to hold on to her and lower them to the floor as she buried her face into his shoulder and continued sobbing out her sorrows. With her so upset supper can easily wait, he will be here for her. Even this would have been worth it to his younger self to see someone that needed him, needed the comfort he could give them in such a vulnerable moment. With nothing to show for why she is so upset he figured maybe she is finally breaking down, a meltdown she had put off with other things to focus her mind to and maybe some hope that was crushed. "I will ne-never see them- again," she cried out, her hands clinging to him as he held her not caring that his shoulder is becoming damp, just glad that it is him she will open up to. "I will never see Sango swing Hiraikotsu again or Souta kick his soccer ball," she choked up into a sob again, throat constricting with her grief as the despair hung heavy in the air around her. The names, though not all that familiar, he had heard of Sango from the flea, "I will never get to yell at InuYasha for being an insensitive jerk or see m-my mom and gr-andpa," her tears came out even harder. To know she once had a lot; love, family, friends, and a hopeful future and then find it ripped away when she was already hurting. Why would the Gods put her through such when it sounded like she has always been such a beautiful person? He kissed the crown of her head a few times as she began to hiccup and he could hear her nose beginning to run. Using his sand he secured a box of tissue and small garbage for her to use.

Outside of the window stood a familiar person hidden behind a barrier as he watched over the scene, seeing this Kazekage comfort the crying Priestess until she fell into an uneasy slumber, body exhausted from the emotions she has finally let out as her final hope was crushed and she was left feeling lonely until this Lord Gaara came home. It would seem Myouga's observations were quite on point when it came to this new male in her life, he clearly cares about her and unlike any other he is able to be there for her at different critical times. His face had gained back the healthy appearance showing he is resting like he should once again, a sign that he most likely wasn't beforehand with all of the circumstances revolving around the priestess. Listening closely he watched him lay her on the couch to rest, grabbing a blanket to drape over her before ascending the stairs for a few minutes, coming back down in more casual attire as he began cooking. With patience he waited, wanting to see what he will do.

Several minutes later he came out with a steaming bowl of miso soup with crackers and jasmine tea, setting it down on the coffee table to cool while picking up the discarded tea cups from earlier. He eventually crouched down beside her, slowly waking her up to try the tea and let her stomach settle. "Kagome," he beckoned to her softly, guiding her into a sitting position as he sat down in the corner of the couch her head rested on, positioning her to lay against his chest as she sluggishly woke and clung to him once more with heavy eyes. "Try and have some tea," he helped her to sit in his lap as the sand carefully brought the cup and saucer to them. Her eyes watered a little, the flavor of jasmine being exactly what her mom would fix when she is upset and quietly she shared that with him as she felt his hand run through her hair in a comforting motion.

"Thank you," she leaned into him, resting her head as she held the cup and saucer, "thank you for being here."

His hand continued the motions making her feel more relaxed, "I'm glad I came home early. I don't want you going through this alone, I want to be there for you in everything you need and want me there for. Never do I want you to go through life like I had once, with no one to call friend, no family member you could turn to, just you and the vast loneliness."

She perked up a little, her brows furrowing as she said, "You," in disbelief, having seen the respect and admiration he holds in the eyes of the village.

"Yes, before I was born I had been forced to contain a beast by my Father. My Mother died in childbirth and my Uncle Yashamaru was my caretaker until I was six and my Father, the previous Kazekage, ordered him to betray me to test my mental strength and control over the beast, to make me think I was only hated, never loved. He had gone through with it and died in the assassination attempt. Most likely he really did want to take me with him to get me out of the cruel world and join him and my Mother but I easily survived. It broke me, I was ostracized from birth and despised by everyone so I turned my back on them and began to only love myself, only truly feeling alive when I killed another, primarily a strong opponent. My Father ordered my assassination so many times through those years I lost count; I was deemed a failure, one they couldn't get rid of. That was my life until six years later it changed, my Father was assassinated, I found another that was forced to contain a beast but had forged bonds and so I began to follow his path instead. It took time but I eventually became someone others needed, someone that can share feelings like pain… sadness… and joy with others… Like I said, I was foolish to not have seen through your determination for what it truly was… a cry for help… and I'm sorry I had been blind. Never do I want to see you suffer," he held her, strengthening the bond they are building as he let her take comfort from him, as much as she needs. "You're a wonderful person in my eyes and I feel sad you have to go through so much pain but I am glad you're in my life," he confessed bringing a small smile to her lips. "I care a lot about you and I'm sure I have already fallen in love with you," he tilted her head up, kissing her on the forehead. "Go ahead and drink up, it should help calm your stomach so you can eat," he urged her.

Watching and judging, it was clear he could give her more than InuYasha ever could. His heart is hers for the taking, he is willing and able to open with her and keep a level head instead of acting solely based on emotions and instinct. Her heart will slowly heal should she not turn him away and he doubted she would now that she has learned what his own life had once been, how he came to be this man. It was enough to earn some respect from him as he easily showed how much he cares for her behind closed doors at least… he will have to see how they will be out in front of others.

When she found she could no longer cry she slowly spoke, trying to open up even though it hurt but she knew he will listen to her as she goes at her own pace. She painted as vivid a picture as she possibly could, which wasn't much in her crestfallen state, but he actively listened showing his interest and looking happy that she is finally pushing herself to talk about it. It was never a matter of trust per say but it hurt to think about it and hurt far worse to try and speak about things. A quiet evening spent with him hearing her soft voice drift up to his ears as she rested against him until her breath evened out once more showing her to be in slumber. He kissed her head again as he rested against the couch with her for some time before he finally took her up to bed and soon retired as well, his arms wrapping around her with a possessive hold as he let his eyes drift shut unaware of the golden orbs that had watched them.