A/N: And here is the end. Special thanks to all who reviewed (on this, and my other stories). It really does make me happy. One day I hope to actually post a real epic of a story. Until I have the time and determination for that I will continue to post these one, and two, shots. Your support is amazing. And, of course, I don't own Inuyasha.

UNCONVENTIONAL

Part II

Inuyasha toyed with his sword, boredom seeping out of every movement and expression. The peace talks with Ryukotsusei had been tense, and many times shouting matches had broken out. Inuyasha, a mere figurehead supporting his father, sat at the edge of his room, alternation between glaring, fiddling with his sleeves, and fingering his sword threateningly. Toga sat across from the great dragon demon, attempting to keep his calm in the face of such vicious stubbornness. Sesshomaru sat beside him, and it was obvious to all that his mind was elsewhere.

"For centuries we have claimed the quarry," Toga murmured, back strait and stiff, "your claim is defunct."

Ryukotsusei frowned. His hair was long and slick, a flowing blond that offset his maroon eyes. Lines framed his mouth and corner of his eyes, betraying that even for youkai he was ancient. It was with this age that Ryukotsusei began to feel arrogant, and believed he was entitled to more than he earned.

"Of course," the dragon replied slyly, "but it is in my lands. I have allowed your use of it, but it is now under my terms."

"It has never been your lands," Toga growled, "the line is not strait, Dragon. You want more that you're due."

Sesshomaru, for his part, stared apathetically at the wall behind the dragon and his entourage. Occasionally, he would allow a scathing glare at Ryukotsusei, but would otherwise ignore the proceedings.

Inuyasha had yet to tell Toga about the reason for Sesshomaru's absences, and while the hanyou would relish the trouble his half brother would be in, he would not be acceptable to the possibility of Kagome getting hurt as well. She was an oblivious wench, but he had grown a soft spot for her. Either she would be left alone in the forest with no protection, or the Inu no Taisho would seek her out to put an end to his first son's distraction. If asked, Inuyasha would not lie to the Old Man, but until then he would slyly withhold all information possible.

The hanyou perked as the meeting was adjourned, once again, until the following day. The dragons exited the room, all scowls and glinting eyes. Inuyasha snarled at them silently before turning to face his disgruntled brethren.

Toga frowned and glared, then released a frustrated sigh.

"This is not going well," he muttered, before turning to face Sesshomaru, who had stood to leave.

"Sesshomaru," Toga commanded, "it is not the time for you to be leaving the fortress. Dalliances can wait."

Sesshomaru turned, expressionless. "I am not dallying, father. I have an obligation I must attend to." He slide open the shoji door to exit. "You can expect me at tomorrow's proceedings. I won't shirk my duties."

Inuyasha was left alone with a seething demon lord in the echoing silence after Sesshomaru's departure. He tensed, knowing that whatever came next would not be to his liking.

"Inuyasha," Toga said, still staring at the door Sesshomaru had left through. "Surely you have found what I asked, and I know you would hide nothing from your father, correct?"

Inuyasha refrained from flinching, instead scowling and issuing a silent "Keh!"

Toga turned hard eyes on the hanyou—expectant, cold eyes.

"You ain't go nothin' to worry about," Inuyasha attempted, knowing it wouldn't be enough.

"I think," Toga replied, "that my heir's continuous absence is something to worry about."

Inuyasha tightened his hold on Tetsuaiga. "He's been staying at the cave."

Toga paused, momentarily stunned out of his anger. "The cave…? Would could he possibly…." Realization dawned. "No."

"Keh." Inuyasha muttered. "It ain't like that." At least, the hanyou hoped it wasn't like that. It wasn't that the cave was particularly meaningful, but it had been where they had trained, occasionally, as children. It was also where Toga had met Izayoi, thus it was secluded and protected from feral youkai. It was the perfect place to hide someone.

In Toga's eyes this meant a secret lover. In Toga's eyes if the lover was secret then they were probably unacceptable.

Inuyasha silently groaned, knowing that this would explode in some way or the other, and either way he was going to be screwed.

In a flash Toga was up and stalking out of the room, leaving one extremely worried hanyou.

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Leaving, Kagome decided, was a splendid idea if a traveler knew where they were going. Leaving, she decided now, had been a very bad idea, because she was unalterably lost. Dusk closed in and Kagome collapsed in a sore, exhausted heap at the base of a giant tree.

She had thought it would be easy enough. If she walked strait, eventually she would be out of the forest and hopefully she would be able to find a path or settlement. In reality, strait lines were not possible in dense jungle. Constantly she was forced to detour around things like deep creeks, fallen trees, and wall-like shrubbery—leaving her completely turned around and nowhere safe as night fell.

Kagome groaned, allowing her forehead to bump into her drawn up knees. So stupid, stupid, stupid, she thought. Why didn't she think about this? She should have waited. Maybe Inuyasha would have helped her, or even drawn a map. If she asked, Sesshomaru possibly would have carried her out. Actually, somehow Kagome didn't think so.

Kagome sighed. It was too late to mull over what she could, and should, have done. Now she was stuck in a situation of her own making. Despondently Kagome pulled out the fur she had packed to wrap around her, shivering from more than cold. The forest that had seemed so light, friendly, and amiable just a few hours previous was becoming daunting and ominous. Every cracking twig, every breeze left Kagome on edge.

Pressing herself into the tree with wide eyes Kagome prepared herself for a long night.

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Inuyasha heard a ferocious snarl as he approached the clearing. Eye widening, he rushed to see what could possibly have set his stoic brother off. In sight he examined Sesshomaru standing in human form, staring into the cave with reddening eyes.

"Bastard," Inuyasha greeted cautiously, keeping one eye out for Kagome.

Sesshomaru turned to glare at him. "She's missing."

Inuyasha blinked, brows raised in surprise. Sniffing the air proved Sesshomaru's statement true. Along with the absence of noise, her scent was long since stale. The moon was high in the sky, but if in the cave she would have had a small, cheerful flame going.

"Go look for her then," Inuyasha snapped.

Sesshomaru remained frozen. "She wasn't taken. She left on her own."

Inuyasha rolled his eyes, aghast at his half brother's social stupidity. "So? You really think she's safe in the forest?" Inuyasha goaded. "At night? All alone."

Sesshomaru stiffened. Inuyasha was about to badger him some more, but in a slap of wind Sesshomaru was gone, leaving the hanyou alone in a moonlit clearing.

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Night alone in the woods, Kagome found, was terrifying. Every sound forced a twitch, every hoot a shiver. The night had grown much chillier than anticipated, but Kagome was too nervous to go collect kindle for a fire. Her rear was sore from pressing herself against the unyielding roots of the tree.

Too her left, in the shadows, she heard a snap. Eyes wide Kagome strained her gaze to see through the shadow in vein. Another snap and soft breathing, and suddenly Kagome was very, very worried.

The bushes rustled to her right and a low growl filled the air. Breathing shallow, Kagome slowly made to stand. There was definitely something surrounding her. She hoped, whatever it was, it was only one. Glancing up, Kagome checked if there were any possible branches in quick reach. There was, and with a jump and some major muscle strain she could lift herself up, and hopefully whatever was stalking her wouldn't be able to reach.

Silently Kagome let the fur slip off her shoulders, eyes darting back and forth. The growl deepened, raising the hair on the back of her neck and forearms. It reverberated through her skull and down her spine, and Kagome knew that whatever it was it wasn't good.

As fast as her body would allow Kagome leapt for the branch, hefting herself up despite her screaming muscles and protesting joints. She had never been the most athletic of girls, and after a long day of traveling her body wanted nothing to do with this kind of strenuous activity. Yet adrenaline and fear pushed her and, gasping, she made up the branch. She held on tightly with trembling fingers, automatically searching for another branch to climb.

A low, hoarse laugh danced its way from the bushes.

"Look it, Sister," the thing hissed, "It's trying to escape. What a silly girl! Hee hee!"

Startled, looking down, Kagome saw two of the largest snakes she had ever seen in her life slither from the shrubbery.

"Yes, Brother," growled the snake on the right, and her eyes were a deep, entrancing violet. "What a stupid mortal. Surrender."

The command surprised Kagome, and she jerked her eyes away from the female snake. There was something about the demon that was alluring and Kagome refused to let herself be drawn in.

"Look at it!" giggled the male snake, coiling around himself, tongue lolling. "It resisted you! It resisted you, Sister!"

"Shut up, idiot!" Snarled the female. "Did you not hear me, girl! Come here!"

"Um," Kagome responded flatly. "No, thank you."

The male snake cackled, while the female snake spat furiously.

"Now, sister," the male cooed, "I think it's my turn."

Kagome struggled, hefting herself up another branch. Her heart pounded furiously in her chest, and she could hear the blood rushing through her ears. Sweat broke out on her forehead and between her shoulder blades, dripping down her spine. She didn't turn to look at the demons, instead focusing all her energy into getting as high into the tree as possible. She didn't pause until she felt the slithery feeling of scales brushing against her skin. Kagome gasped and dug her nails into the branch she clutched.

Looking up Kagome came face to face with the male snake youkai.

"Hello, sweetling," he hissed. "It's time for supper!"

"No!" Kagome yelped, pushing against the demon's slick skin. "Get—off!"

"Tsk!" He exclaimed jovially. "Don't fight, girly. It will only make things—"

And then it wasn't talking anymore, because his head was gone. Kagome gaped as the snake body, which had wrapped around her midsection, slowly fell heavily from the branch to thump against the dirt ground. The female youkai screeched as she caught sight of her brother.

"What did you do?" She screamed, glaring up at Kagome who clutched the tree desperately.

"I-I don't know!" Kagome stuttered, now looking into the female's violet eyes. The remaining snake lurched at her, somehow managing to catapult her body off the ground in a mad attack to reach Kagome in the tree. Mid jump she was stopped, her body sliced cleanly in half. The pieces fell to the ground with a sick squelch. In the darkness, the blood seeping into the earth looked like ink.

Kagome, in a state of shock, twitched as a man appeared in front of her. For a split second she thought it was Inuyasha, but quickly she realized that, while similar, his face was too different. His eyes, the same molten hue, were thinner, and more flat than the hanyou. Silver hair almost glowed in the filtered moon light, and his cheeks were graced with twin maroon slashes. Centered on his forehead was a crescent moon, just like the one on the dog.

"Sess-Sesshomaru?"

He blinked at her, expression blank. Balanced precariously on a sister branch he held out a hand. "Come," he commanded.

Kagome stared, dazed, at his hand. Painfully she uncurled her fingers from the branch and grasped his own clawed fingers. He pulled her too him smoothly, wrapping an arm around her waist before leaping into the sky.

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The flight back was one of the most uncomfortable experiences of Kagome's life, including the ride with him when he was in demon form. The chill wind bit into her skin, seeping into her bones until it felt like her entire body was made of numbing ice. While Sesshomaru's body was warm, it was nowhere near warm enough to counter the icy wind.

When they reached the cave Sesshomaru landed gently. Instead of releasing her he carried her in long, confident strides to the furs tucked into the cave. Kagome blinked owlishly in the darkness of the cave, only the mere hint of moonlight allowing her to see the entrance. Softly he pried her fingers from his silk haori and dropped her onto the furs. Immediately Kagome snuggled in, trying to create as much warmth as possible. She had thought Sesshomaru gone but when the fire lit it illuminated his features, casting him in a much warmer light.

His eyes slid to meet her watchful ones. "Sleep," he commanded. At that point, Kagome found no reason to argue and dreams quickly overtook her.

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At some time in the night she thought she heard voices. Too exhausted to move, Kagome remained still and relaxed, bundled and warm in the furs while the small fire still crackled merrily.

"See? Don't say I didn't tell you. I told you." Inuyasha. That voice was Inuyasha.

"None of this concerns you, half breed." Sesshomaru.

"Don't be stupid. This damn well does concern me. If it concerns Kagome, it concerns me!"

"What does she mean to you?"

Silence.

"Don't be stupid. It's not like that. I'm just not a bastard like you."

"Hn."

"….He knows."

"You told him."

"I'm not a fuckin' liar."

"It is none of his business either."

"You try to tell him that."

She must have made some noise, because they immediately stopped mid conversation and someone padded over to her. Slitting open her eyes Kagome was faced with a red, hakama-clad leg.

"Hey, wench, go back to sleep," Inuyasha commanded softly, and she fell back asleep.

When she woke the second time Kagome felt completely rested. Sitting up, she noticed the fire had petered out, only weak embers left. Outside the sun shone high and bright. Standing up, Kagome groaned. Her muscles screamed and her skin felt sticky and dirty. Gathering up supplies Kagome went to bathe.

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Toga was late. Sesshomaru and Inuyasha sat tensely in the council room. Ryukotsusei and his entourage would arrive in mere minutes and the Inu no Taisho had yet to make an appearance. Suddenly the door burst open and Toga strode in.

"Inuyasha!" He barked, startling the hanyou from his near doze.

"What?" Inuyasha snapped back, scowling.

Sesshomaru remained still in the same spot he had been the previous day.

"It's time for you to learn debate. Run today's meeting for me!" And with that, Toga walked back out. Inuyasha stared aghast at the door his father exited before walking to the Inu no Taisho's place. Lowering himself uncertainly Inuyasha waited for the dragons.

"Don't mess up, half breed."

Inuyasha slanted Sesshomaru a smirk. "Keh! As if."

As the dragons began to enter the room, Inuyasha began to crack his knuckles, smirking.

"Time to negotiate."

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Cleaned and a little less sore Kagome hummed as she began to boil some rice for a midday meal. It wasn't for a few minutes that she noticed someone watching her. Her hair prickled and she couldn't help but shiver a little after the previous night's incident. Watching the rice a few more seconds, Kagome slowly stood up and turned, as if stretching.

The excessive nonchalance was unnecessary. The demon was in plain sight and watching her. Kagome froze.

He wasn't Inuyasha, and he wasn't Sesshomaru, but he looked so much like them that she couldn't help but wonder whether he was their brother, or perhaps a cousin.

"…Hello," greeted Kagome cautiously, clasping her hands at her belly.

"So," the demon replied. His hair, tied up high on his head and flowing down his back in waves, fluttered in the breeze. His eyes narrowed. "you are what's been distracting my son."

Kagome blinked. "Excuse me?"

"This is…" the man murmured, "…surprising."

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The man, it turned out, was Toga, and he was Sesshomaru and Inuyasha's father.

Kagome brewed tea as he sat, legs crossed and back strait. It was a perfect imitation of how Inuyasha usually sat when drinking tea with her. Pouring it into the chipped clay cups, Kagome handed one to Toga and settled herself across from him, wincing.

"You are… injured." Toga observed.

Kagome smiled awkwardly. "No, just sore."

"Mm." He replied, sipping his tea. "Tell me. How does my son act around you?"

Kagome looked up thoughtfully, one finger placed on her chin. "Well, he mostly just lies around and sleeps. Sometimes he brings me stuff, and every once in a while he lets me pet him."

Toga paused in his tea sipping to stare at the girl in a mild form of shock. "You mean, Sesshomaru remains in dog form?"

Kagome nodded vigorously, her long thick hair bouncing into her face. She brushed it away, but soon after her smile wilted. "Well, he was—until last night, that is."

"Please, elaborate."

"There's not much to say," Kagome murmured. "I did something stupid, and Sesshomaru saved me. He was in his… more human form."

"I see."

They finished their tea in silence. Toga made to stand and Kagome followed suit.

"I'll be taking my leave," he said.

"Take care," Kagome replied.

"Mm." Toga inclined his head, turning to leave. "I look forward to seeing you again, Kagome."

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"I don't believe we share blood."

Inuyasha snorted. "Believe it, bastard. Believe that I am better at negotiations than you are."

"That," Sesshomaru replied, looking down at the lounging hanyou auspiciously, "was not negotiating."

"Keh!" Inuyasha spat from his spot on the floor. "It worked, didn't it?"

"I refuse to give into petty squabble. I take my leave."

"Say hi to the wench for me."

"I think not."

"Say hello for me as well."

Sesshomaru and Inuyasha jerked to find Toga entering the room, face expressionless.

"Father," Sesshomaru greeted tensely.

"Sesshomaru," Toga said sternly, "I think it is about time we had a little chat. Inuyasha leave."

"Keh?"

"Inuyasha!"

Inuyasha groaned and stood up. "Yeah, yeah. Whatever. I'm going."

Toga kept his gaze on Sesshomaru. As the door shut behind Inuyasha he lowered himself to the floor before Sesshomaru. Sesshomaru imitated, facing Toga.

Toga sighed thoughtfully before tossing out a sentence. "Kagome seems like a nice girl."

Sesshomaru tensed, his brow furrowed. "What—"

Toga held up a quelling hand. "No need to worry. I did nothing. I'm your father, Sesshomaru—not your enemy."

Sesshomaru sat back, but his eyes were still shuttered and wary.

"Aside from that," Toga continued, "I want to know what your intentions are. Sesshomaru, why would you possibly remain in your dog form?"

Sesshomaru frowned, but remained silent.

Toga sighed. "I have questioned your thoughts before. You must have received this sense of secrecy from your mother. But this, this is far beyond my comprehension."

Toga waited for a response, only to get none. He sighed once more.

Sesshomaru, for his part, remained still for a few more seconds before standing. "I must go."

"To her."

Sesshomaru leveled Toga a look that spoke volumes. It told him a story of protection and confusion and perhaps even a certain level of attachment. Sesshomaru left the room, and Toga was left with a mass of muddled thoughts.

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Kagome was tending the fire when he appeared. She stifled a gasp as he appeared at the edge of the light, looking down at her impassively. Her heart tap danced in her chest.

"Sesshomaru," Kagome sighed. "Welcome."

Sesshomaru inclined his head and settled a few feet away from her. Kagome watched him from the corner of her eye as she set about preparing a cup of tea. Sesshomaru stared into the darkness.

"Tea?" Kagome offered, extending the cup towards the demon.

Sesshomaru's eyes flashed briefly, faster than Kagome could read it. "No."

"Ah, alright." Kagome cradled the cup to her chest awkwardly, staring into the playful flames.

The emptiness of silence spread through the area. Kagome couldn't help but to continuously glance at the demon. He was beautiful, ethereal almost. Beside him she felt more dumpy and human than ever. His silver hair reflected the firelight in a warm rainbow, and his eyes were like a grain field mid-autumn, warm and steady.

But his stance was stoic and his expression closed, and Kagome didn't feel the comfort with him that she felt with Inuyasha. Despite the time she had spent with him, he was still an unknown and Kagome did not know how act around him, especially with him in human form.

"You're human now," Kagome observed tentatively. "Why?"

Sesshomaru's gaze slid to her, and she felt as though he was looking through her, and once again her heart began to beat heavily.

"There is no need not to," he said, and his voice was smooth and low and deadly.

"I see." Inside, Kagome couldn't help but think, 'Was there a need before?'

"You're… father visited earlier," Kagome said, forcing the conversation that refused to flow.

"I am aware."

Kagome ducked her head, brow furrowing.

"May I ask a question?"

He quirked one delicately arched eyebrow.

"Why did you bring me here? Why," Kagome gestured to the cave and supplies, "all this?"

Sesshomaru looked away, staring into the flames. In a flash he was standing and stalking off into the darkness. Kagome watched his retreating form, eyes wide until he was out of sight. Sighing, she pulled her knees up to her chest.

Sesshomaru spent the rest of the night outside, attempting to answer that question himself.

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Surprise accompanied dinner for the rest of the week, and the week after that. Sesshomaru joined her, most nights, by the fire. He was silent, resolute, but he was also present and that lightened Kagome's heart just a little bit each time she saw him.

And each time she grew more comfortable with his silences. He didn't talk, but that didn't mean he didn't communicate. It was subtle, but Kagome was always skilled in observing other people's quirks, especially when they were so quiet. If he was amused by something, his lips—just barely—would twitch. If something irritated or angered him his eyes would flash and narrow. If he wanted to make her feel silly then he would quirk one eyebrow at her auspiciously.

It became almost like a game; attempting to get reactions from him without angering him. She would tell him about her day—trying to think of funny little anecdotes. Stories of her brother were always a decent source of entertainment, though it often made her sentimental for her family. Living the solitary life she did wasn't extremely interesting or eventful, but Kagome did her best.

"So, where do you actually live?" Kagome asked curiously one night.

Sesshomaru leveled her a look, but she easily ignored it, blinking innocently.

"A fortress. Miles from here."

Kagome nodded. "Were you born there? Is Inuyasha your only brother?"

"Half brother," Sesshomaru immediately corrected, then looked disgruntled at the Inuyasha like response. Kagome stifled a giggle, attempting to arrange her face into a serene, uncomprehending expression.

"Hn," Sesshomaru intoned. "Inuyasha is, fortunately, my only sibling."

Again Kagome refused to allow the amused smile to spread across her face. Sighing, she leaned back to star at the sky. A wisp of clouds veiled the sky, like an ethereal cloth, barely hiding the diamond entourage of stars tossed haphazardly behind it. The moon, half full, illuminated it brightly.

"I think," Kagome mused, "I'm glad you brought me here."

Sesshomaru watched Kagome as she looked up. Her curved body showed through her shapeless kimono, and her hair was loose and wild. Despite her humanity he found her stunning, and not quite because of her physical appearance.

Kagome, Sesshomaru thought, was one of kind, among both humans and youkai. She was accepting and open and genuinely friendly. She was nearly fearless, and while she had no skill in battle she had strength of a different sort. Impossibly, she had earned his respect.

"Hm," he said instead. They spent the rest of evening in silence.

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Toga decided it was time to interfere. He had always assumed Inuyasha was the son he would have to dictate in terms of romance. As it were, it turned out Sesshomaru was the oblivious one when it came to the female species.

Tapping his fingers thoughtfully Toga mulled over the opportunity. In the ideal situation Toga would never have to interfere in his children's lives. Unfortunately neither of them had received the charm and suave that he was so inherent for. Both somehow grew up to be socially stunted, which left Toga with no choice.

Like the battle strategist he was—he would plot, formulate a plan, and execute it with brutal efficiency. His sons would be happy, whether they liked it or not.

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Sesshomaru was sipping tea for him made by Kagome when Inuyasha appeared. Smoothly he set it down and stood, waiting patiently for Inuyasha to approach, or attack him. The hanyou was in no mood to battle though, too irritated at his messenger status.

"Bastard, the Old Man says he wants you for dinner."

Sesshomaru frowned. "This is… abnormal."

Inuyasha shrugged, studying his claws. "'The hell would I know?"

Sesshomaru slid his gaze to the cave entrance, watching as Kagome emerged. A wide, bright smile spread across her face as she caught sight of Inuyasha.

"Inuyasha," she exclaimed joyfully, "what brings you here?"

The hanyou grumbled grumpily. "Just gotta bring a message for the bastard."

"Oh…" Kagome murmured. "Well, you should come for tea soon. It's been awhile."

Sesshomaru leveled a look at Inuyasha that said, 'No, you can't. Stay the hell away. And on that note, please die after I beat you into a bloody pulp.' Or something along those lines.

"Yeah…" Inuyasha replied dryly, glaring at his brother. "Next time."

Kagome smiled obliviously and a silence ensued.

"Well, whatever," Inuyasha burst. "You know, so I'm outta here." And with that he jumped into the foliage quietly. Sesshomaru turned to face Kagome who had walked up beside him.

"I must depart," he informed her softly. Kagome nodded in understanding.

"Right now?"

"Yes."

"Well," murmured Kagome with a faint smile. "Have fun!"

Sesshomaru smirked, and immediately turned to leap into the trees, following Inuyasha.

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Following his departure Kagome gazed off into the distance before returning to the cave. She was interrupted through by the arrival of another dog youkai.

"Toga!" Kagome exclaimed, surprised. "Sesshomaru just left."

Toga smirked. "I realize that, my dear. I didn't come for him. I came to see you."

Kagome tilted her head curiously. "Me? But why would you—Aaaah!"

Kagome shrieked as Toga shot forward and dumped her over his shoulder. Immediately he jumped into the umbrage, leaping from branch to branch as though the wind carried him instead of his own feet.

"T-Toga!" Kagome yelled in between bounces. "What is—oof!—going on!"

"Don't worry, Kagome," Toga said back to her, sounding as though he wasn't sprinting through the tree tops at a breakneck speed. "We're just going to have some dinner."

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Sesshomaru waited calmly, sitting cross legged, for his father to show up. Inuyasha and Izayoi lounged at the opposite end: Izayoi strait-backed and poised, Inuyasha slumped and picking at his teeth. Trying to quell his irritation Sesshomaru studied the table. Servants had yet to bring out the meal, but bowls had been set before them , and there was an extra one.

"A guest, I presume," Sesshomaru observed, eyeing the extra setting beside him.

Inuyasha grumbled and shrugged, but Izayoi tensed and smiled awkwardly. "I think," She murmured smoothly, "that your father has a special guest tonight."

Sesshomaru frowned. "I see." Something was going on. Izayoi was acting abnormal, and his father was late.

Sesshomaru didn't react when he heard the footsteps coming from the porch outside—two sets. One was the definite pattern of his father's, but the other was lighter, delicate almost. A female. Sesshomaru strained to listen further. They were too heavy to be of youkai origin, but they seemed familiar as well.

And then the door was opening, and Kagome stepped in—hair piled enticingly on her head and silks draped across the curvaceous figure of her body. She looked more a princess than a commoner in royal clothes. Sesshomaru stood.

"What is the meaning of this?"

Toga had stepped in and a soft smile graced his lips. "I thought it was time to formally introduce Kagome to the family. Izayoi has yet to meet her."

Sesshomaru retrained the growl that threatened to force its way from his throat. "I warned you not to get involved."

It was Kagome who answered him. "Sesshomaru, I'm sorry." She looked down at her wringing hands. "I can leave if you want."

Sesshomaru paused. "No. Stay."

"Ah, see?" Toga said proudly. "Everyone is happy. Let's eat!"

Sesshomaru took his seat again, and Kagome settled herself beside him. A blush graced her cheeks and she kept her eyes lowered.

"Kagome," Izayai spoke, the dulcet tones of her voice welcoming. "I'm glad I could finally meet you. You are welcome here."

Kagome's flush deepened but her she looked pleased. "Thank you. That means a lot."

They were interrupted by the servants arriving with the food, and the meal commenced.

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Kagome sighed and relaxed, feeling the tension leave her shoulders as she gazed up at the clear sky. After supper Toga had urged her and Sesshomaru to take a walk in the gardens. Kagome wasn't sure whether the demon lord was attempting subtlety, but it certainly wasn't working. Between the kidnapping, dinner, and the forced walk—it was like a stone to a face. As to what he was trying to accomplish…. Kagome hadn't quite figured that out yet.

Sesshomaru trailed behind her, even more silent than usual with an unyielding frown gracing his face. Perhaps it was the shock of his family and how they had been treating her, or maybe it was the vague reasons as to why Sesshomaru kidnapped her—but Kagome felt something snap.

"Sesshomaru," Kagome said serenely, "I apologize for infringing on your home. It wasn't…."

"It was no fault of yours. I blame my father for it."

Kagome nodded, turning to face him. Her expression hardened. "I'm not stupid, Sesshomaru. I know you hate having me here. You hate that Toga dressed me in these clothes. You hate that you have to deal with me outside of the unofficial cage you created. What I don't understand is why you keep me in the first place."

Sesshomaru stared at her, his eyes ice and his figure completely closed to her. Under the moon, the stars, and the night sky he was more formidable than ever.

"I will not speak of this," he finally replied.

"No, you will," Kagome demanded. "You will because I need to know. I can't continue living without knowing." Kagome stomped over to him, glaring at him despite her diminutive height. "Do you expect me to live in that cave until I grow old? Will you bury me there after I die? Will you and your brother be my only companions for the rest of my life—"

Throughout her tirade Sesshomaru had remained calm, but when she continued he grew increasingly agitated. She stopped mid sentence when he grabbed her bicep.

"You stupid woman," Sesshomaru growled, and Kagome gaped up at him, for this was the most expressive she had ever seen him. "I do not deny you my home because of your silly notions. I do not expect you to grow old in that cave and die. That is unacceptable."

Kagome backed up a step as Sesshomaru pressed closer to her. His body, sans armor, was hard against her curves. The tree she bumped into forced her to stop her back peddling.

"I do not wish you here because you are not safe here, and I would be extremely displeased if harm came to you. I do not want you here because your attention strays, and it vexes me when I see you speaking so amiable to my brother and father. I hate to have you here because I don't like to share and you are mine."

Kagome gaped up at the demon, the most ruffled she had seen him. She was about to respond but his lips pressed passionately against hers. She gasped and he took that moment to delve deeper into the warm cavern of her mouth. His clawed fingers moved to her waist, gripping it possessively as though she were his lifeline.

Suddenly he pulled away from her, his lips hovering against hers, brushing feather light and making her knees weak.

"I—I don't—"

Again, Sesshomaru interrupted her. "Don't ask me why I took you. I can never answer that."

Kagome nodded blankly. Before she could think too much into it she pressed her own mouth against his, entwining her arms around his neck and pulling him down to press her body as close to his as possible.

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Perhaps their relationship wasn't perfect. After all, Sesshomaru was an obnoxiously stoic demon, and Kagome was an irritatingly social human. Somehow, though, they managed to figure out the boundaries of their relationship, or the fact that boundaries weren't necessary.

Of course it was frowned upon for a human to mate a demon, and vice versa. But love and understanding was their sustenance. And when they stumbled they just had to look behind them, because Sesshomaru's family had already set the precedence, and paved the path.

It was unusual for a sacrifice to become a lover, but somehow Kagome always knew that she was fated for the unusual.