One Night
One Night
Chapter 4: Hearts of Turmoil
The bright rays of sunlight greeted her as she stirred from her sleep. Kagome opened her eyes slightly before burying her head into the soft furs of the large bed. Then it hit her.
Bed? Where the heck am I? She thought as she finally sat up and took in her surroundings. She was in an elaborately decorated room, furnished with high quality tapestries and paintings. She hugged herself as a cold shiver went down her spine. It was then she noticed she was no longer in her clothing from earlier. Instead, she wore a simple white kimono decorated with an intricate design of blue flowers.
What happened? She thought. The images of the previous night filled her. Laying back down she clutched the bed furs tightly in her hands and buried her face within them.
Inuyasha…he found out. He found me and Sesshoumaru; Together. Even in demon form I've never seen him so angry… So heart broken.
The thought of Inuyasha caused the girl to bury herself deeper into the bed.
"All you had to do was love me Kagome. That's all I wanted."
The memory of his words stabbed her like a knife. She remembered the feel of his unwanted touch; The sensation of his breath against her skin; The fear in her heart as he began to rid her of her clothing; The look of lust in his blood filled eyes.
How could you? Kagome thought as she felt the sting of hot tears cloud her eyes.Choking back her sobs, she refused to cry, even as the thought of Inuyasha attempting to rape her clouded her mind.
No it's my fault. I brought this upon myself. I couldn't love you the way you wanted. Lost in her thoughts, she didn't hear the door slide open.
The scent of fresh tears greeted Sesshoumaru as he stepped into the guest room of the western palace, which was currently occupied by the miko. He stared at Kagome's body buried within the furs. His ears twitched as the softness of her voice met him.
"I'm sorry Inuyasha…" she whispered.
Why the hell is she thinking of that half breed? The tai-youkai questioned silently as a low growl escaped. The mere thought caused his growl to become louder, drawing Kagome's attention towards him. At the sound, Kagome sat up suddenly and faced him. Though her vision was somewhat blurred from her already shed tears, Kagome could clearly make out the image of the demon lord wearing nothing but his white hakama pants. His silver hair set a contrast to the pale skin of his upper torso, which was adored with the fine lines of lean muscles and the wine colored marks of his demon heritage. He peered at her with molten eyes as he watched her dark brown orbs roam over his sculpted body.
"Sesshoumaru… I…I didn't hear you come in." she whispered. Sesshoumaru watched as she wiped her tears with the back of her hand.
"How long have you been awake miko?" Sesshoumaru's voice was soft as he spoke shocking Kagome somewhat. She gripped the furs tightly around her as the demon closed the door and leaned against the wall.
"Not long." She answered.
"How are you feeling?" Kagome starred at him as he tried to read her emotions. The scent of tears was slowly beginning to fade from the room as he peered down at her. She tucked her bottom lip between her teeth and lowered her head. She was contemplating how to bring about the subject of the last night, until she finally gathered up her nerves and spoke.
"Inuyasha…" she began.
"Would have died by my hands last night." Sesshoumaru finished. Kagome raised her head to stare at him. In his eyes she could see small traces of his anger and hatred for his younger brother.
"Sesshoumaru… I…" Kagome began but was silenced by Sesshoumaru's dismissal with the turn of his head. The miko lowered her head again, unable to look at the demon any longer.
"I believe someone is here to see you." Sesshoumaru said suddenly. Kagome looked at the tai-youkai with an arched eyebrow. No one could possibly be looking for her. She'd told Sesshoumaru to take her away from everyone until she could figure everything out. No one should have known that she was in the western castle. Seeing the look of confusion plain on Kagome's face, Sesshoumaru open the screen door behind him. Reaching a hand out, he pulled back in a small body with tuft of orange fur.
"Lemme go ya' big bully!! Where's Kagome?? What have you done to her??" The small fox demon cried as he began swinging his fists wildly in an attempt to have Sesshoumaru to release him.
Sesshoumaru just stared at the demon with a look of annoyance as he tightened his grasp around the boy's collar.
"I swear if you hurt her I'll be the first to kick your …."
"Shippo!!" The fox demon turned his head suddenly at the sound of Kagome's voice.
"Kagome!!" He squealed, forgetting all about the threats he was making to Sesshoumaru just moments before. Shippo launched himself out of the demon lord's grasp and ran into Kagome's open arms.
"I was so worried Kagome." He said with a sigh as he buried himself into her chest. Kagome hugged the kitsune tightly as she buried herself within the orange fur on top of his head. After hugging him for a long moment, a sudden thought came to her. Kagome withdrew herself from his grasp and stared into his emerald green eyes.
"Shippo... how did you find me?" Shippo settled himself comfortably in Kagome's lap as a thoughtful expression crossed his face.
"Well…Inuyasha was busy keeping Sango and Miroku off of him he didn't even bother to notice when I got near. When Sesshoumaru came and took you away in his big white light I jumped in before the two of you could disappear." Finishing his small story, Shippo nodded his head with a triumphant smile. He then turned a concerned eye to the girl.
"But Kagome... What was Inuyasha doing to you back there? I never saw you look so terrified." Kagome gripped Shippo and hugged him tightly. She could never explain to him what was happening. She would never teach him the evils of the world.
"Oh Shippo.. It was my entire fault." Kagome admitted with a sigh.
"No way Kagome! You could never do anything to be treated like that! If anybody is to blame, it should be Sesshoumaru. He's the one that kidnapped you. Inuyasha had every right to get upset." He explained as he crossed his arms and sent a glare to the demon lord.
"It would be best if you kept yourself out of business that does not concern you little fox." Shippo said coldly, holding back a snarl.
"I can take you on!!" The fox demon said bravely jumping to his feet. Sesshoumaru let out a 'hmph' and dismissed the child. Shippo turned back to Kagome.
"Come on Kagome. We have to get out of here. We need to get back to Inuyasha and the others." He whispered, pulling her arm gently. Sesshoumaru stared at the girl from the corner of his golden eye with crossed arms. Kagome caught his glance and lowered her head.
"Shippo…I can't go back to Inuyasha right now. I need to settle things with Sesshoumaru first." She said as she ran a hand through his fur.
"You've got to be kidding me. You actually want to talk to this creep?!"
"Shippo.. listen… Inuyasha and I aren't exactly on agreeable terms right now. But once Sesshoumaru and I talk, I'll go and settle everything with him." She said with a smile. Shippo looked at her with a questionable stare.
"You promise?" He whispered. Kagome merely shook her head.
"I promise. Now Sesshoumaru and I have to talk okay." Shippo turned his head slightly to look at the Inu- youkai.
"Rin…Jaken…" Sesshoumaru whispered suddenly, not taking his eyes off of Kagome. In an instant, his two wards were standing in the doorway.
"Yes Lord Sesshoumaru…" Rin said with a smile. The small demon, Jaken, stared at his master with expecting eyes.
"You called m'lord."
"Take the fox and show him around the castle. The miko and I have some business to discuss." He ordered.
"At once.." Jaken said bowing respectfully. He then turned his attention to Shippo. "Come along child…" he demanded. Shippo glared at Jaken and Rin, then Sesshoumaru, and then turned his gaze to Kagome. She only nodded her head and gave him a small smile. He turned his gaze back to the demon lord before jumping out of the bed.
"Fine…Just know I'll be watching." He called before exiting the room. Sesshoumaru slid the door closed once the fox demon finally exited with the others.
"I should have rid myself of that nuisance when I first got wind he was here." Sesshoumaru growled slightly. Kagome gave him a weak smile.
"He's just a kid. And a good one at that." Sesshoumaru let out another 'humph'. Their eyes locked for a moment, causing Kagome to tear her gaze from his.
"Sesshoumaru…"
"You will not return to that half breed." He interrupted.
"But… I have to get…"
"If his brain is unable to comprehend the events that unfolded then he is a bigger fool than I gave him credit for." Sesshoumaru mumbled beneath his breath. He walked over to the large bed Kagome rested upon and took a seat turning his back to the girl. Kagome let out a sigh as she wrapped her slender arms around Sesshoumaru's neck. She placed a gentle kiss on the back of his neck and rested her chin on his shoulder.
"Listen to me…" She spoke softly. Sesshoumaru turned his golden gaze to the raven haired girl. Kagome merely tightened her hold around the demon. "I know you may not like it… but I have to go back and explain everything to everyone. Especially Inuyasha."
Kagome could feel the tai-youkai tense under her touch. Sesshoumaru balled his hands into fists as he spoke.
"He is undeserving of you. He did not prove himself to you. He has accomplished nothing except for being a worthless half breed that has lost everything." Kagome could feel the anger radiating from him. She slowly began to run her hand through his silk hair in an attempt to calm his nerves.
Closing his eyes, Sesshoumaru leaned into Kagome's touch. Within seconds his head was resting comfortably on Kagome's lap.
"I understand what you mean. But you have to understand, I can't just leave everything behind so suddenly. I have to go back." Sesshoumaru's eyes snapped open at her words. A feral growl escaped him as he caught Kagome's hand in mid stroke. Grasping her hand tightly in his, he stared into her eyes.
"I forbid you to go. There is nothing left for you there." Kagome's hard gaze softened as she looked down at the demon. She brought his hand to her lips and placed a gentle kiss on his palm. She leaned forward and placed another kiss on his lips, deepening it when she slipped her tongue into his mouth.
Embracing the sweetness of her mouth with his own tongue, Sesshoumaru gently ran his claws through her hair as he pushed her further into their kiss. In one swift motion, Sesshoumaru flipped the girl forward, placing them in a position in which Kagome straddled the demon lord's hips with her thighs. Bringing his leg upwards, Sesshoumaru allowed his hip to brush against the miko's core. Enjoying the small sensation it provided, Kagome bit his bottom lip, then sucked on it gently, refusing to relinquish her hold of his lips.
Sesshoumaru grasped her thighs tightly, leaving moon shaped indents from his claws within her milky skin. His hands slowly traveled up her thighs to rest on her ass, which he grabbed firmly. The small squeak that escaped from her caused him to grab her bottom again, this time a little harder. Breaking the kiss, Kagome let a small smile cross her lips, which seemed to intrigue the demon lord. At his raised eyebrow, Kagome's sly grin grew wider as she began to leave a heated trail of kisses down his neck and chest. Between the small acts of pleasure, Kagome bit his skin in certain places, only to wash the small marks with her tongue. Gripping her hips even tighter, Sesshoumaru grinded himself against the miko's heated core, relishing in the friction their bodies produced.
A low moan escaped her as their bodies pressed together. Sesshoumaru's golden eyes stared at the miko. Kagome smiled as she saw the flicker of lust that engulfed his eyes. Tracing the lines of his chest with her fingertips, she leaned forward allowing her breath to tickle his skin.
"Hmmmm…" she moaned seductively. "Does someone have something planned?" She was surprised when Sesshoumaru flipped them over and buried her underneath his weight. He leaned forward and brushed his fangs against the flesh of her skin where her shoulder joined her neck.
"You have no idea…." He whispered huskily before bringing his head up and planting his lips on hers. He kissed her hard and fast at first but then slowed down as if it was their first time and he was trying to memorize every crevice of her mouth. Feeling his tongue overpower her own, Kagome allowed herself to succumb to the pleasures of the demon lord. A small grin decorated his lips as he felt the miko's body loosen beneath him. She was his, and that night, he was going to make sure she remembered it and remembered it well.
Breaking away from the kiss, Sesshoumaru slowly began to trail his mouth down Kagome's heated skin. He breathed in her scent as he began to run a claw down her neck and towards her breast, which were still covered with her kimono. Growing agitated at the fabric, Sesshoumaru tore the clothe from Kagome's body, leaving her completely naked before him. Tossing the now shredded kimono carelessly to the floor, Sesshoumaru busied himself with covering one of Kagome's hard nipples with his mouth. Her back arched slightly at the sensation of his tongue on her pink bud.
A low moan escaped the girl, causing him to position a hand on her lower back and push her forward, forcing more of her fleshy mound into his mouth. With his free hand, he began to toy with her other nipple between his claws.
Sesshoumaru thrashed his tongue about, sucking as if he were a new born during feeding time. Once her breast was nearly red, the demon lord turned his attention to the other, placing the delicate bud within his mouth. Kagome buried her hand within his silver hair as her coated her other nipple with his tongue, just as he did with the first. She bit down on her bottom lip in an attempt to quiet the moans threatening to escape.
The spike of her arousal was slowly driving him mad. So much so that he could barely concentrate. After feasting on her fleshy mounds, the tai-youkai lowered his kisses further down past her abdomen, past her navel, and buried his nose into the nest of back curls that decorated the beginning of her womanhood.
The tangy scent of her essence engulfed him completely. With a deep breathe, he took in her scent, which seemed to travel directly to his throbbing cock, making the member even harder. Lowering his head, he took Kagome's swollen jewel into his mouth and sucked on it gently. A loud moan escaped the miko, which only caused the demon lord to suck on it harder. Her back arched as he gently brushed a fang against her throbbing clit. Grabbing a fistful of silver hair, Kagome managed to utter a single word between her moan.
"More…" she nearly pleaded. At her words, Sesshoumaru slipped two fingers into her slick core. He sucked harder and harder on her clit as he pumped his fingers in and out of her. He began slowly at first, but the quickened pants of the girl he currently tasted caused the thrust of his fingers to quicken.
Out of instinct, Kagome wrapped her legs around the demon's neck, bringing him further into her already dripping core. Sesshoumaru delighted in the act, and with a few more quick thrusts of his fingers, he felt her walls tighten around his appendages sending her into her first orgasm of the night. Sesshoumaru slowly removed his fingers and tucked them into his own mouth, licking them clean of Kagome's essence. He lowered his head a little further, releasing her clit from his mouth, and ran his tongue across the nether lips of her entrance.
The mere taste of her on his tongue caused the demon within him to awaken. After licking her clean, Sesshoumaru moved himself forward and covered her body with his. The sight of Kagome's flushed cheeks and the sound of her uneven breathing only made his member harder. As he grinded his painfully hard erection onto her core, he kissed her passionately, allowing her to taste her own essence on his tongue.
Unable to restrain himself any longer, Sesshoumaru stood to his feet. Before he could allow his own hands to untie his hakama, Kagome sat up and busied herself with ridding the youkai of the white clothe barrier. Within seconds, Kagome was face to face with Sesshoumaru's throbbing erection. The mere sight of its size caused Kagome's mind to wonder into her darkest fantasies and relive the pleasures of their previous nights together.
Feeling her mouth begin to water, the miko slowly drew the demon into her mouth. Slowly, she allowed her tongue to slide over the engorged piece of flesh that was in her hands. First she just covered his head with her mouth and suckled allowing the taste of his salty pre-cum to cover her taste buds. She pushed him further into her mouth, running her tongue up and down his length, sending waves of pleasure up Sesshoumaru's spine. Fitting as much of him as she could into her mouth, she covered the remainder of his member with her hands and began moving her head in a slow and steady pace.
From above she could hear Sesshoumaru's breathe hitch, which only made her move faster. The taste of him caused a pool of wetness to form in her core. The feel of her tongue on his manhood was sending the inu-youkai into a world of his own. Throwing his head back in sheer pleasure, he buried his clawed hands into her raven hair while simultaneously pushing more of himself into her. Eventually, he found himself thrusting into her mouth, meeting each stroke of her delicate tongue.
A soft moan escaped the girl as she continued her ministrations on the demon lord. The small sound sent a slight vibration through his manhood and into his body, causing him to grip her hair tighter and thrust into her mouth harder. Feeling himself come close to his climax, Sesshoumaru's throbbing cock seemed to take on a life of its own as it pounded into the miko's mouth. Red clouded the golden eyes of the demon as he felt his inner beast slowly take control. With a grunt, Sesshoumaru released himself into Kagome's mouth. With a small grin, Kagome swallowed every drop of his seed, refusing to allow a single drop to be unaccounted for. After one more flick of her tongue on his member, Kagome stood from her knees, running a delicate finger up his abdomen and chest and into his silver hair. Kagome's grin only widened when she heard the demon's labored breathes and saw the unmistakable red hue that colored his eyes. Standing on her toes, Kagome leaned forward and kissed Sesshoumaru's ear.
"Just returning a favor…" she whispered seductively before turning her back to the demon and crawling back onto the bed, without failing to toot her backside upwards for Sesshoumaru's wandering gaze.
Feeling the unmistakable carnal desire stir to life within him once again at the site of the miko's rear end in the air, Sesshoumaru quickly mounted the bed along side her, refusing to allow her to lay completely down. With a growl, the western lord grasped his quivering member and positioned himself at Kagome's slick entrance. As if trying to tease her, he rubbed the tip of his shaft against her moist folds. Unable to take the four play any longer, Kagome thrust herself backwards, sheathing her womanhood onto Sesshoumaru's erect member. A low groan escaped him as the warmth of her walls engulfed him entirely. He placed both of his hands on her hips and grasped her tightly in an attempt to steady himself. After taking a few steady breathes, Sesshoumaru slowly pulled himself out of her, only to thrust it in again and again and again. With every thrust, Kagome let out a startled cry of pleasure as she felt the familiar tightness of her abdomen as he continued to thrust inside of her. Feeling her walls tighten around his throbbing manhood, he felt his beast take complete control as his eyes bled completely red and his pace quickened. With her eyes hazed over in pleasure, Kagome welcome the blissful feeling of her orgasm as it washed over her.
With a low growl, he jerked his hips forward with his demon speed, the loud moans of the miko as she reached her peak seeming to only bring him closer to his release. With a few more powerful thrusts, he came hard, releasing his seed into her womb. With a muffled moan, Sesshoumaru collapsed on top of the miko's body as the last shocks of his orgasm washed over him. After regaining his breathe, he rolled over and brought the girl closer to him. With a sigh, he hugged her tightly and buried his head into her raven hair, immersing himself in her scent.
"One day miko… you will be mine for eternity." He whispered to her softly.
Kagome snuggled deeper into his embrace. His words rolled around in her head as she allowed the heat of her body to slowly disappear. Yes, yours for eternity, she thought as she closed her eyes and allowed sleep to claim her.
Kagome stirred a few hours later, feeling the warm embrace of Sesshoumaru as he held her tightly. Shifting only slightly so she wouldn't wake the demon lord who still slept peacefully beside her she glanced up at his sleeping form, only to lay down again against the furs of the bed with a sigh.
She knew Sesshoumaru was only being protective of her. But she couldn't see why Sesshoumaru was so against her going back, even if it was for a short period of time.
Then it struck her. Did he believe she'd go back to Inuyasha? Did he believe she'd take back her choice and leave him? Staring at the sleeping figure, she couldn't help but let a small smile cross her lips. He should have known that she would not go back on her word. She couldn't leave him even if she wanted to for she knew her heart would never let her. Her brown orbs softened as she watched Sesshoumaru's chest rise and fall with his even breathes. Even though they'd only been together for a short time, she knew she had strong feelings for the inu- youkai.
Though she tried to deny it at first, she knew something was there, even after she and Sesshoumaru took care of their desires during that first night. To top it off, she continued to see Sesshoumaru, fulfilling her hearts desire, even though she knew Inuyasha would be devastated by it.
The thought of the half demon caused her to sadden somewhat. She knew she'd hurt him by sneaking off with her brother, and she knew she'd hurt him even more by choosing to go with the western lord rather than stay by his side like she'd done every other time.
The truth was, she did love Inuyasha. If she hadn't she wouldn't have stayed with him through the battle with Naraku, and she wouldn't have dedicated herself to helping him complete the Shikon no Tama. But that was before she realized that her heart yearned for something more. In a way, she felt as though the dreams she'd had in the beginning was her heart putting her in the right direction.
Regardless, she knew she was wrong, and the least she could do was talk to Inuyasha to get him to understand, no matter how much he may not have wanted to hear it. With a sigh, Kagome took another glance at Sesshoumaru. Tucking her lower lip between her teeth, she placed a gentle kiss on the demon's forehead.
She knew he'd be angry at her for going. But it needed to be done. Beside, she never did promise him that she wouldn't go. It just so happened that they got so preoccupied in each other that last night's conversation went forgotten. With a final sigh, she slipped from Sesshoumaru's grasp and gathered her kimono from the floor. Quickly and quietly, she slipped into the clothing. After sliding the door open, she gave Sesshoumaru a final glance before stepping out and closing it behind her.
The sound of her feet against the wooden floor of the castle echoed through the quiet halls. A few doors down, she stopped suddenly at an open door. Peeking her head inside, she smiled at the sight of Shippou and Rin sleeping peacefully in a large futon. Jaken lay next to them, small snored emitting from the toad demon. Content with the picture of the kitsune and Sesshoumaru's wards, Kagome continued to make her way down the hall. With a few more twists and turns, the girl found herself in the castle's back gardens, heading towards what looked to be an animal's shed. Swiftly she approached the structure, smiling when she finally found what she'd been looking for.
Ah and Un lifted their head slightly when they felt the miko's presence. Their golden eyes stared intently at her as she stepped into the shed and gave the demons a small smile. Slowly, she placed a gentle hand on their back and rubbed their scales slowly. Enjoying her touch, Ah-Un lowered one of his heads to nuzzle against Kagome's neck. She let out a small giggle before clearing her throat and turning a serious eye to the demon.
"Take me to Inuyasha." She whispered. With a short nod, Ah- Un allowed Kagome to lead him out of the shed. With bit of effort, she managed to get onto the demons back with only a little trouble.
"Let's go." She whispered again. With another nod, Ah- Un lifted himself into the air, and began making his way to the small group of friends Kagome easily left behind.
Daylight had just begun to peek across the mountaintops when Kagome and Ah-Un finally managed their way bag to the village. Though the sun had risen, a cool, nightly breeze was still present. The smell of breakfast was emanating from the small hut near the flowing river. Standing in front of Kaede's hut, the girl took a deep breathe trying to calm their nerves.
What will they think of me? She thought to herself as she tucked her bottom lip between her teeth, contemplating whether or not to actually go inside. With a final sigh, Kagome gathered the last of her nerves and readied herself to go inside to the others.
She held her breathe as she gently pushed aside the mat of the doorway and peeked her head inside. Kagome and Miroku sat silently around the fire and watched as Kaede gently stirred the contents of the boiling pot over the fire. Resting in Sango's lap, Kirara lifted her head at the unmistakable sent of Kagome. With a loud purr, the small neko jumped from Sango's lap and sauntered to the doorway where Kagome stood silently.
"Kirara?" Sango whispered, surprised by the sudden movement of her companion. Lifting her head slightly, Sango locked eyes with the brown orbs of Kagome, who now clutched Kirara tightly in her arms.
"Kagome!" The demon slayer called out, causing the two other occupants of the hut to turn towards the door.
"Ah Kagome… we where wondering when you'd return." Miroku said, a smile of relief evident on his features.
"Indeed child. We'd grown worried that ye had not recovered your strength. Come… do not act as if we are strangers." Kaede said with the same smile of relief. Releasing her breath, Kagome walked completely inside.
"Hi." She whispered taking a seat as Kirara jumped from her embrace back into her previous position.
"Hi yourself. Are you alright? The last time we saw you it was before Sesshoumaru disappeared with you. I do think it's safe to say you went with him willingly?" Sango questioned. Kagome only nodded her head.
"I think you've got a lot of explaining to do." Sango said again. Kagome lowered her head as her eyes shifted to her hands, which were nervously curling themselves into the fabric of her kimono.
"I know…" she whispered.
"What intrigues me is the answer to how long have you and Sesshoumaru been… you know….?" Miroku asked with a devilish grin on his face.
"Perv…" Sango mumbled underneath her breathe.
"Since I asked you for advice about me and Inuyasha." She said barely above a whisper. Sango and Miroku's eyes widened at the brief statement.
"So HE was the reason you wouldn't mate with Inuyasha?" Miroku said, astonished at the sudden realization. Kagome only shook her head. It took her only minutes to tell the others of how her dreams started, how she thought acting them out would help her move forward in her relationship with Inuyasha, and how after a few nights with Sesshoumaru she began to feel a difference in her heart. She didn't have to relive the previous night, for the memory of Inuyasha's demon form, his attempted rape, and Sesshoumaru being Kagome's savior was still fresh in their minds. Once she had them all caught up, the silence was thick in the air as they stared at her. Kagome was unable to look into their eyes, fearful that all she would see was disappointment and anger.
"Kagome…" she felt a firm hand on her shoulder, causing her to lift her head and stare at Sango, who had risen from her seat to go to her friend's side. As she stared at her, Sango allowed a gentle smile to cross her lips.
"Listen Kagome. A woman's heart can be confused at any point in her life. What you did was follow you heart. Now I'm not saying you are completely innocent here, but I'm pretty sure we've all made mistakes in our past and we will make them in our future. What important is how we atone for those mistakes, and how we fix the lives of those we've hurt the most. And I can tell you…" Sango stopped to look at Kaede and Miroku before turning her attention back to the miko "…we're not the ones that you should be worried about in gaining forgiveness. As far as I'm concerned… you are already forgiven." With tears threatening to fall from her eyes, Kagome threw herself into Sango's arms and buried her head onto the slayer's shoulder.
"But Kagome… just next time you have a secret. Don't hide it from us. We are your friends after all." Miroku finished with a nod of his head. Kagome let a small smile cross her lips as she wiped her eyes with the back of her hand. Her heart had somewhat lifted at the fact that the group had forgiven her. Now the test was to see if Inuyasha could find it in his heart to do the same.
"But I have one question Kagome…" Kaede's voice was soft as she spoke. "Do ye love the demon lord Sesshoumaru?" Kagome glanced over at the older priestess. Sucking in a mouthful of air, Kagome took a calming breath. Her eyes softened. She could feel the swell in her heart at the mention of loving Sesshoumaru. It wasn't the same swell she had once felt for Inuyasha; it was stronger, more distinct.
"I loved Inuyasha at one point. He'll always be special to me. But…" Kaede and the others could see the small glint of newfound happiness. Though the girl did not say it out loud, they all knew the answer. With a sullen glance at the others, she stood to her feet.
"I must talk to Inuyasha. Where is he?" Before the others could get a word out of their mouths, Inuyasha stepped through the door into the hut.
The silence thickened with the new presence. Sango, Miroku, and Kaede stared at the two in silence as they watched the electricity in the air build.
Inuyasha's golden eyes hardened at the sight of the miko as he watched her stand to her feet and face him.
"Hi…Inuyasha…" Kagome whispered, lowering her head somewhat. She could see the hanyou as he tightened his hands into fists, suppressing a growl within his chest. She lifted her head slightly to stare at Inuyasha. His eyes were clouded with emotion; anger, regret, hatred, sadness. Kagome bit her lower lip out of nervousness, unsure of what to do next after seeing such intensity in Inuyasha's eyes. After a few more moments of silence, Kaede slowly stood to her feet and turned to the others.
"Maybe we should leave them to speak privately." Sango and Miroku nodded and began gathering their things.
"There's no point." Inuyasha stated coldly. "I don't have anything to say to her. She should just return to were she belongs." With that, he turned on his heel and stormed out of the hut. Kagome looked at the doorway in shock. She felt a shiver run down her spine at the coldness of his words.
He doesn't want me here. He hasn't forgiven me. I should have expected that. How could I think he'd forgive me after what I've done? Stifling back her tears, her shoulders slumped as she allowed herself to become lost in her thoughts.She then felt a firm hand on her shoulder. She turned to see Miroku giving her a sympathetic smile.
"No one said it was going to be easy." He whispered encouragingly. "He really does want to talk. He needs to." Kagome gave a small smile as she wiped the tears that decorated the corners of her eyes with the back of her hand. With a sigh, she followed the half demon out of the hut and through the forest. She made her way to the base of the Goshinboku, where she found Inuyasha perched on his favorite branch. Inuyasha recognized the faint scent of Kagome as she approached, causing his eyes to harden and his demeanor to stiffen. Kagome pressed the palm of her hand against the bark of the tree, allowing her many memories to come flooding back. With a reserved sigh, she finally turned her gaze towards Inuyasha, surprised to see him staring intently at her.
"Inuyasha….I…"
"What are you doing here? I told you to go back where you belong. Whether it be to your own time or my bastard brother. You're not welcome here." His voice was distant as he spoke, causing Kagome to flinch at his words. Instead of backing down, which she figured would have been the best option, the miko stood her ground and stared intently at him.
"No Inuyasha… I won't go until you hear me out." Inuyasha turned his head away from her and buried his hands within his sleeves.
"Feh…… guess you'll be standing there forever. I told you I have nothing…" Between his ranting, Inuyasha didn't hear the low growl of annoyance that emitted from the girl, nor the 'sit' command which now had him face first in the dirt.
"Why you little…!!" Inuyasha began but stopped suddenly as Kagome fell to her knees in front of him. Stunned, Inuyasha took a good look at the girl before him. He felt his heart clench at the faint smell of salt. He looked up at Kagome only to see tears evident in her eyes. Her body began to shake involuntarily.
"Kagome…."Inuyasha began but stopped suddenly when the sobbing Kagome threw herself into the half demon's embrace.
"I'm so sorry…" she sobbed, burying her face into his red haori. "I didn't mean to hurt you. It was the last thing I wanted to do." Inuyasha felt his heart tighten at her words. He wanted to hate her… he wanted to hurt her like she hurt him. But she meant too much to him. Feeling his emotional barriers collapse, Inuyasha wrapped his arms around the crying girl, and pulled her into his lap. Holding her tightly, he hugged her until he felt her body relax, and her sobs turn into quiet sniffles.
"Inuyasha…." Kagome began as she slowly began to regain her voice.
"I wanted to hate you." Inuyasha said suddenly, his voice hoarse as he spoke. Kagome looked up at him. He stared away from her into the clear sky, his eyes growing more distant with each passing second.
"You hurt me and I wanted to hurt you like you did me."
"Inuyasha… I wish it didn't have to be like…" He quickly shook his head, demanding her silence.
"I can't do it Kagome. I love you too much to hurt you like that." Kagome could feel his grip around her tighten. He then turned his unwavering gaze to her. "And I'm not going to let you go."
Kagome felt her voice became caught in her throat at his proclamation. His words and the intensity of his eyes caused Kagome to move away from him. She stood to her feet and turned to face him with a saddened but determined look. She took his hands into hers and held them tightly as he, too, stood to his feet.
"Inuyasha… You have to listen to me. I know I hurt you. I didn't want us to be like this." She gripped his hands tighter as she spoke. "It wasn't something that I planned on doing."
As she spoke, she tucked her bottom lip within her mouth.
"But the truth is…. There is nothing between us anymore." She could see him stiffen at her words. The mere thought of the previous night made her more determined to say the words.
She thought of the pain she'd caused him.
"I'm sorry. And I don't expect you to forgive me…."
She thought of her moments with Sesshoumaru that caused her heart to go hysterical.
"….I know what I did was wrong… but I'm asking you to understand. My heart…."
Her memory shifted to an angry Inuyasha, possessed by his demon blood as he came after her. Her grip tightened as she held back her tears.
"…loved you once…but…"
The memory of her lost in ecstasy with Sesshoumaru's every touch flashed in her mind.
"….It doesn't belong to you anymore." She was staring intently at him now. Her gaze was hard and determined as she stared into Inuyasha's golden orbs.
"Are you saying you'd rather be with him?! That cold hearted bastard?!" His voice came out in screams of desperation.
"I gave you my heart Kagome!!" He pushed her hands away from his. Kagome stared at him as he turned his back to her. She knew he wouldn't like what she had to say… but the truth needed to be said.
"Damn it Kagome…. How could you do this to me??" He said, turning back to her. Anger once again filled his features. Kagome was silent.
"Do you love him?" He bit out, his voice barely above a whisper. Kagome took a few steps toward him and placed her hands in his. She leaned forward and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, giving him her answer.
"I'm sorry Inuyasha." She whispered in his ear before stepping away from him. He closed his hands into fist, wrapping his fingers around a small glass like ball that Kagome just placed into his hand. Confused, the hanyou looked down into his palm, to see the Shikon no Tama glisten in the sunlight.
As he closed his hand around the jewel, Kagome could here the low growl that slowly became an outright snarl.
"No!! I won't let you go. Eve if you go back to him I WILL get you back!!" He growled out only loud enough for her to hear. With that he stormed off deeper into the forest away from her.
The miko let another tear slide down her check as she watched Inuyasha storm off. She wrapped her arms around herself trying to ward out the coldness of his voice. With a sigh, she turned and began making her way back to the village.
I hope one day you will understand Inuyasha.
Anger filled every fiber of his being as he rushed through the forest, only stopping once he reached an open area beyond the forest borders. Gripping the Shikon no Tama in his hand, he fell to his knees in exhaustion. It wasn't until then that he realized he was near the cave where the Onigumu, Naraku's human self, one resided.
"I refuse to loose you Kagome…." He bit out in strangled sob.
"And you don't have to Inuyasha…" The half demon sat up, startled at the sudden voice. Scanning the area only to find no one there, he dismissed the voice as he fell back into his thoughts.
"You know you hear me…." At that Inuyasha jumped to his feet, drawing his sword with his free hand. The wind picked up around him, blowing his silver hair wildly around him, and Inuyasha could make out a faint laugh that was all too familiar to him.
"Naraku… impossible… you're dead..." Inuyasha barked out as his lips curled into a snarl. The laugh met his ears again, but this time it seemed to be closer.
"No thanks to you and your friends. But now all that is left of me is the essence of the countless demons that were used in my creation."
"Feh… nothing but a big ball of air hm?" He said sarcastically.
"Where are all of you friends? Better yet… Where Is… Kagome?" Naraku's voice was taunting. Inuyasha grabbed his sword tighter.
"That's none of your damn business." The laugh filled the air again.
"Poor Inuyasha… First you lose Kikyo and now you lose her reincarnation." The clouds in the sky began to grow dark and Inuyasha could feel the evil aura forming around him.
"Shut up…" He bit out as he swung his sword, only to have it slice through air.
"Your mind is no working condition. What will you achieve fighting a mere ghost hm? I on the other hand know whom you wish to release your anger on. Your brother is a worthy opponent indeed." Naraku's dark laugh filled him.
"Like I said.. It's none of your damn business!!" He yelled out again.
"I'm not here to taunt you Inuyasha. Merely here to grant you whatever assistance you may require in reclaiming what is yours." The air thickened around him.
"You're going to help me. Feh… and what the hell is in it for you?"
"Nothing…. Just the satisfaction of bringing someone as strong as Sesshoumaru down to his knees."
"Idiot.. Do you really think I'd let you help me?"
"Will you be a fool and allow Kagome to slip through your fingers? Aren't you willing to do anything to have her by your side again?" Inuyasha could feel the evil aura of Naraku as it twisted and turned around his body… calling his inner demon towards the power. Inuyasha clutched his hands into fist as the thought of Kagome leaving him took over
"Kagome is all I want…" he whispered as he felt his demon blood stir at the closeness of Naraku's essence.
"Good." Naraku laughed as Inuyasha felt Naraku's very essence begin to seep into his skin. He could feel the demon blood rushing through his veins, slowly suppressing his human conscience.
"What the hell is going on?!" He asked, as he gritted his teeth. His sword fell from his grasp and clattered to the ground as he fell to his knees.
"If you want the miko back you will need me…."
"What are you doing to me?" He growled out as his muscles bulged and his eyes began to bleed red.
"You need to harness your demon power Inuyasha. Use it and the jewel. If you want her back…. take her. " With that said the last of Naraku's demonic essence flooded into the half-demon's body. Inuyasha let out a cry as he felt the power pulse through his veins. His demon had emerged. Inuyasha, now completely lost to his demonic half, held the Shikon no Tama to his blood red eyes as a large, toothy grin spread across his face.
As he grasped the jewel tightly in his hand, only one thought filled his mind.
"You are mine Kagome…."
Okay quick note….. I don't know if you will agree with me but I feel as though this chapter kinda sucked. I mean I feel as though I have written better in my days. Anyway… I really don't like the ending of this chapter. I just wish I knew how to make it better than what it is.
Oh and just in case any of you are confused… Naraku IS dead in this fic. Inuyasha just got possessed by the demonic essence Naraku left behind after the final battle, so now Inuyasha is basically transformed into a demon. And he has the jewel… go figure.
But hope you enjoyed the latest installment. Please review. Nice to hear what you guys think.
Until next time
Silver Silence 89