Hey guys! Time for the next chapter! And the first night of Kagome's training begins!! Woohoo!!

Ch. 4

I was never one for eavesdropping. It was a habit that often got people into loads of trouble. But, being a Lord, there were exceptions to every rule of course. I hadn't meant to listen in on the conversation of my brother and his traveling companions. But, as it happened, I was scouring the land for a potential mate, when I came upon the scent of my disgrace of a half-brother.

He was inside a quaint little village. It was a prosperous village from what I could see. I could smell his vile scent from inside the farthest hut. Normally, I'm able to quell any sense of curiosity that I have, but on this case, I couldn't resist. My perfect control slipped slightly, and I dashed quickly to a closer spot. I only managed to catch the end of the conversation.

Apparently, my brother's miko was leaving. For how long, I wasn't entirely sure. Where she was going, I didn't know. I was curious. When she stepped out of the hut with the sniffling kit in her arms, I did a double take. She was a beautiful woman…for a human. Her attire left little to the imagination.

Taking in her form graciously, I admired her long, shapely legs, thin, toned waist, firm, round breast, and heart-shaped face. It was only after, did I catch myself admiring a HUMAN of all creatures. My lip curled up in a snarl at my own thoughts. How could I be thinking such things for a weak, disgusting human such as that woman?

Taking in a breath to ease my frustration, the most amazing scent hit my nostrils. The smell of fresh lavender and the after affects of a storm. It was wild, untamed, and pure. The taste of power hit my tongue, causing me to salivate.

That woman smells absolutely delicious, I thought, Wait! What am I thinking! This Sesshomaru must be losing his mind! Never will I ever be interested in such a worthless whelp of a woman no matter how delectable she smells.

I was brought out of my inner battle when my brother and his companions started heading in a different direction. For some reason, my curiosity just wouldn't stop. I found myself following the group into the forest to a small clearing with a well in the middle. I hid myself in the trees and watched the scene unfold.

It was then that I noticed it. Reaching inside my haori, I pulled out the gold necklace. A soft, golden aura was flowing peacefully from the chain. This means my mate is near by, but the only women nearby are the demon slayer and the miko. Surely, it isn't saying a human is to be my mate. Ridiculous. But I couldn't deny it. Part of me hoped that it was the miko and not the demon slayer. The miko had spirit, a fire insider her, that made her different from most women in this time.

The miko said her farewells to her companions, and I watched, confused, as she seemed to prepare to jump inside that well. Was she insane? That fall would most certainly injure her. Inuyasha and her friends seemed to not be worried, for as soon as the miko disappeared, they turned to head back to the village.

Not one to be made a fool out of, I jumped down and looked into the well. To my shock, the girl was gone. Where did she go? What a strange well. Does it posses some kind of magic? I also noticed that when the miko had disappeared, so had the aura of the necklace. So the woman is to be my mate huh? We shall see, I thought. Unfortunately, this Sesshomaru has no idea when the miko shall return from…wherever she went. Maybe I shall pay my brother a visit, I thought, with a cold smirk. With that, I turned to walk into the forest. I had some planning to do as well if that woman was to come stay with me in my palace once she returned. There was no way she could escape my interest now. Why did the necklace glow for her? He had to find out. Dogs were naturally curious creatures, and although I do a good job of hiding it, this Sesshomaru had a nack for curiosity. And now he had developed and interest in the miko, even if Sesshomaru refused to admit it to himself.

And so, I began a small plan inside my head. Oh yes, this would work nicely, I thought as the smirk grew to a small smile.

Slowly, I climbed up the ladder that was hanging down from the well. I still couldn't believe it was actually happening. I was home for five months! Inuyasha was ok with it! It was so…so weird. I was expecting him to get all pissed off and start yelling cuss words and obscenities. To my surprise, he hadn't, and I was glad. It was a stress I didn't have to deal with anymore.

Pushing the shrine doors open, I stepped out onto the grounds of my home. I looked around and spotted the God Tree in the distance. I walked over to it with a soft smile on my face. When I was standing directly in front of it, I raised a hand and placed it over the scar of the tree. The very same place where Inuyasha had been pinned fifty-two years ago. It was amazing how much had happened in the passed to years. Meeting all my friends in the Feudal Era, finding and losing love, fighting battles.

After standing there for a few minutes, I walked back towards the house. When I entered, I noticed that it was strangely quiet in the house. I entered the kitchen and found what I was looking for. A note was stuck innocently to the refrigerator. I picked it off and read:

Dear Kagome,

Sorry about leaving, but we should be home shortly. We just left to go grocery shopping and do a bit of running around. If you're going to be here for five months I need to restock the fridge.

Love,

Mom

I smiled at the humor within the note. Mom always knew how to make a girl feel better. Deciding to spend a little time relaxing, I ran up to the bathroom to take a nice, hot bubble bath.

"Ah this is heaven," I sighed, sinking into the luke-warm water. All the tension left my body, and I closed my eyes to let the feeling sink in. After about fifteen minutes of soaking, I gathered up my lavender shampoo and squirted a little into my hand. Once it was lathered to perfection, I applied it to my raven colored hair and began to scrub. I went under to rinse and when I came up…I screamed.

"Ah! What the hell are you doing here?!" I yelled, trying to cover up my 'essentials.'

Nyata laughed at my reaction, "Nothing I haven't seen before Kagome. No need to shout."

"But… but you're in my bathroom! WHILE I'M TAKING A BATH!"

"Like I said, Kagome, nothing I haven't seen before," Nyata smiled.

I was seriously weirded out. How did she get in my bathroom? And she couldn't have waited until AFTER I had my bath. "You couldn't have waited ten minutes," I growled.

Nyata giggled, "Nope."

It was quiet for about two minutes. "Well…are you going to tell me why you're here?" I pressed.

"Oh right," she nodded, "I was just coming to congratulate you on your success in getting away from the half-breed. I didn't even have to intervene. Well done with that Kagome. I also wanted answer any questions you may have before this evening."

I sighed, "Well as of now I have nothing to ask you. I pretty much just want to relax for now."

"I can understand that," Nyata agreed, "But there's something else I'd like to say to you."

"What?" I said, getting annoyed now. She was ruining my relaxing bath. Grrr…

Nyata got a sheepish smile on her face, "I know someone who has taken interest in my little miko."

I gave her a blank stare, "What do you mean? And could you make it quick, I kind of want to finish my bath in peace."

Nyata frowned at her, "Fine. I just happen to know that a certain demon lord likes you."

Demon Lord? I wasn't sure I knew who she was talking about. Did I even know a demon lord? "Can you be a bit more specific Nyata?"

She sighed, "Alright. Alright. Lord Sesshomaru has taken an interest in you. Although he won't admit it to himself yet, but he was watching you earlier today before you left. He doesn't know what you are or how long you're going to be gone, but he saw you jump in the Bone Eater's well."

I started laughing hysterically, "Sesshomaru? Mr. Ice-stuck-up-my-ass demon? The most arrogant man on the face of the planet? You're crazy, you're demented, and most importantly, you're wrong!"

"Kagome, I refuse to be spoken to that way! I only wish to tell you things of the utmost importance. Everything I've told you so far has been true hasn't it? And yet, you still doubt me!?" Nyata yelled.

I looked down out of guilt. I hadn't meant to get so angry, but I was sick of hearing things that made no sense. And, Sesshomaru for heaven's sake? I mean of course the Demon Lord was drop dead gorgeous with his long white-as-snow hair and flawless features. Not to mention, you could just tell the man was fan yourself sexy. That didn't mean that I had any sort of feelings for him. He had tried to kill me on numerous occasions, and he was arrogant, self-centered, emotionless, and had no respect for anyone but himself.

Although if the Demon Lord could ever find it in his heart to love me, maybe it could…no wait! There is no way I'm considering this! He was a heartless monster who killed for fun! But then, what about Rin? He did protect her. Maybe he wasn't as cold as he made himself out to be. This is SOOOO hard! I groaned. Burying my face in my hands, I groaned again in frustration.

My thoughts must have been showing across my face because Nyata began to laugh. "Don't worry yet Kagome. You still have five months before you have to start worrying about that man being YOUR man," she reassured with a dirty smile, "I mean even you know how fine that demon is."

"Yeah," I agreed without thinking, "Wait! No!"

Nyata burst out laughing at my outburst. "It's alright Kagome. He is irresistibly gorgeous."

I sighed, "I guess so, but even you should know that I'm not just interested in men for just their looks. I need someone who's going to love me for me, and not go off to some passed lover and treat me like trash and…and…" and here come the waterworks.

"Oh Kagome," Nyata sighed, "You are so strong. You deserve so much more than Inuyasha. I believe that he isn't really ready for that kind of commitment and to tell you the truth, I don't believe Inuyasha would know what to do to show you love. Sesshomaru has experience being a Lord. He would treat you like a Lady; make you feel powerful and cherished. Not to mention dog demons mate for life."

Nyata did make some good points. There were major differences between Inuyasha and Sesshomaru. Inuyasha was wild and brash. Sesshomaru was wild yet with a tame, civilized side. He used his head before he acted and he had an aura of authority. He was strong that much was certain and could provide protection to her if she needed it.

"I will…consider what you said about Sesshomaru, Nyata. Thank you for letting me know," I said.

"No problem. No I shall leave you to your bath. Enjoy! See you tonight Kagome!" And she was gone. I finished my bath in silence.

Inuyasha paced the inside of Kaede's hut in irritation. "Inuyasha would you please just calm down. It's only five months. The longer you stress about it, the longer it will seem," Sango scolded.

"She is right Inuyasha. Sit down and have ye self a drink. It'll do ye some good," Kaede instructed.

Inuyasha dropped to the ground with a huff, "This is ridiculous. How could she just up and leave for five months!? What about the jewel shards? What are we going to do without her!?"

Shippo hopped up, "Well I'm sure Kagome would want us to keep searching, even without her. If we keep searching, the time will seem to go by faster."

"Since when did you get so smart Shippo?" Miroku teased.

Shippo looked up at Miroku seriously, "When mama told me smarter men grow up to be strong, unlike Inuyasha."

"Hey!" Inuyasha shouted. Miroku started to laugh as Shippo hid behind him.

Inuyasha stood to strike Shippo, but Miroku stopped him. "Don't hit Shippo for speaking the truth Inuyasha."

"What is this? Make fun of Inuyasha day!?"

Everyone started to laugh, and Inuyasha sighed before smiling. He knew they were just trying to take his mind off of Kagome. It was working for the most part. The moment was cut short, however, when Inuyasha caught a familiar scent in the air near the village. A growl escaped his lips. "Sesshomaru."

I waited patiently in the clearing for them to arrive. If I knew my half-brother like I thought I did, he wouldn't fail to arrive swinging Tetsusaiga like a mad man. As predicted, two minutes later, his scent hit my nostrils, threatening to make my lip curl back in disgust. When was the last time he bathed? Ugh!

"Sesshomaru!" his gruff voice echoed through the clearing.

"Inuyasha," I said, trailing out his name in greeting.

Inuyasha glared, "Come to steal Tetsusaiga again?"

"My business is my own half-breed. The likes of you wouldn't understand my purposes anyway."

"Fuck you!" he yelled before charging.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes at his stupidity. He was so ill-equipped in the knowledge of battle. He had no idea how to properly fight in a battle against one such as myself. I easily dodged his feeble attack. "Worthless," I growled.

"Gya! Die!" Inuyasha screamed.

Sango sighed next to Miroku, "Wouldn't it be great if we could use the sit command just like Kagome. This is just stupid."

"I must agree my dear Sango. Inuyasha didn't even give Sesshomaru-sama a chance to speak," Miroku rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Should we attempt to stop him?"

"I suppose," Sango groaned.

"Inuyasha!" Miroku yelled.

"What?"

"Don't you think you should find out WHY he's actually here before making assumptions?" Miroku reasoned.

"Why would he come here for any other reason except to steal the Tetsusaiga?"

"I don't know, but all you're doing is making a big fuss over something that might not even be worth a fuss," Sango added.

Inuyasha jumped back to the front of the group, "Fine! What do you want Sesshomaru?"

"I am merely on the search for something. I just happened to be nearby. This Sesshomaru has no interest in the Tetsusaiga at the time," I stated, coldly.

Inuyasha sheathed the Tetsusaiga, "What are you looking for?"

"It is none of your concern Inuyasha. But if you must know, I'm looking for someone to…assist this Sesshomaru."

"You needing HELP! That's got to be the funniest thing in the world," Inuyasha laughed.

"Silence half-breed!" I growled. How dare he mock this Sesshomaru?

Inuyasha stopped laughing and glared. Miroku stepped forward, "Just who are you looking for Sesshomaru-sama?"

"That is business of my own monk."

Miroku nodded. I couldn't seem to place any of the names of my brother's companions. Not even the miko. Deciding to voice my curiosity, "Where is your miko?"

"Kagome isn't here," Sango said, defensively.

"Hn." So that was the woman's name. Kagome. A lovely name. Growling softly at my train of thought, I mentally disciplined myself for thinking such things for a human woman.

"What's it to you?" Inuyasha barked.

"This Sesshomaru is more perceptive than you think half-breed. I just happened to notice the miko was not here."

"Yeah well, Kagome is of no concern to you! She won't be here for five months so whatever it is your thinking that has to do with Kagome, forget it!" Inuyasha threatened, not realizing he had revealed some valuable information to me.

Five months huh? My miko shall be gone for five months? That means I have even less time to pursue her. What the hell am I thinking? Did I just call her My miko? I really am losing my mind. There is no need to pursue her. But, how will I get the answers to why the necklace was glowing with her near. She might very well be my mate. No! I shall not mate a human, but I must find out. I must quell this annoying curiosity.

I was brought out of my thoughts by the kit suggesting that they just leave. "Come on Inuyasha. It's obvious he isn't here for a fight so don't go looking for one. Kagome wouldn't want you doing this. Now come on. Let's go back to the village."

Hmm, so the kit isn't as fruitless as my half-brother. Apparently, the miko, Kagome, teaches him well, I thought. Did I just compliment a human? I really need to get a grip.

I decided then to take my leave. Turning back with a smirk, I made another decision. "By the way Inuyasha, I'm not just looking for anyone. I'm looking…for my mate, something you wouldn't understand."

Inuyasha spluttered and his eyes went wide. The whole group was thinking the same thing. No fucking way! Sesshomaru…and a mate!

"Well I guess it makes sense," Miroku stated.

Inuyasha rounded on him, "How does that make any sense at all?"

Miroku looked at him, "Think about it. Sesshomaru-sama is the Lord of the Western lands. Therefore, he will need a suitable mate to help rule the lands."

"You're right Miroku. From what I've learned in the demon slayer village about demon mating rituals for royal affairs, a demon lord must be mated to produce any heirs to the land. He also must chose his mate wisely, especially being a dog demon since they mate for life. Knowing Sesshomaru and this spur-of-the-moment need for a mate, the other lords must have put him a compromising position where a mate is the only solution. I actually think this will be good for him. He needs someone he can care for and break through that ice heart of his."

Unaware to the group, I had heard all that the demon slayer had spoken. I was a bit frustrated at how well the slayer had guessed my predicament. But, it wasn't so much as a surprise considering her heritage. Running a clawed hand threw my hair; I disappeared into the darkening forest, as night settled in.

After my bath, I spent a good amount of time dressing and then fixing myself some dinner. Mom, Souta, and Grandpa had arrived back home shortly after I had gotten out of the tub. Now I was sitting in front of the T.V preparing to go to bed. I knew what awaited me on the inside of my dreams. Part of me is nervous and part of me is excited.

Sighing, I turned the T.V off and called to my mom. "I'm going to bed mom!"

Kasha came into the room. "Good night Kagome. Good luck." She gently kissed my forehead, and I began my walk up the stairs.

It wasn't long after that, that I found myself snuggled up comfortably in my bed drifting off into sleep. As informed by Nyata, once I was sound asleep, I appeared in a clearing. It was a large field that seemed to spread for miles. Trees swayed with a soft breeze. The grass was soft beneath my feet.

I looked around and I screamed when she suddenly appeared right in front of me.

"Ahh!" Gasping, I put a hand to my pounding heart.

"Welcome Kagome. I hope you find this place suitable. We needed some place peaceful for you to train in. Sorry about the scare too. You'll learn to detect me in time. Enough of that though, are you ready Kagome?"

I looked at Nyata, "Yes I'm ready."

She smiled, "Then let your training begin."

Hope you guys liked this chapter. It appears that Sesshomaru is in a bit of denial huh? Hehe. Well, in the next chapter Kagome starts her training. I'll have the next chapter up soon!

Please read: In the last chapter i made a small mistake. When kagome tells inuyasha to "please sit" i meant to type it so he fell to the ground. I was thinking it, but i didnt' type it. So, sorry for those who noticed that. Just..imagine it happened.

And to clarify something in this Chapter, Yes i used their names while in Sesshomaru's POV but that doesn't mean he knows their names. Just to clear that up in case someone was confused.

THANKS!

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