I hope you enjoyed the last chapter and the gross scene that made me almost lose my appetite… yuck. Sakura's violent ways certainly caught up with her that time. Kagome certainly isn't weak but she can't find it in her to actually kill another human being and that cost her. This chapter has a bit of everything.
Chikara
Chapter 6
Sitting around the next day Gaara felt a bit tense but he already knows why. The bloody image of Kagome walking towards him as a kunai impaled her back kept disturbing him. The fact she was already in so much pain that it hardly registered on her face had made it worse. Remembering when he had asked himself if he is 'looking at a dead woman walking' was then pounded back into his head, only reined in by the simple fact her face still had expression, she looked determined, a bit dazed, and definitely dizzy from the blood loss and the crack to her skull.
She is now officially the second person he has had on his desert suspension being medically treated by Sakura. Go figure the first had been Naruto. The two are both so reckless in nature it put him on edge when he realized he had both on his hands. Naruto though, could really take a beating and then some. He always popped right back up with that unbreakable resilience; he just didn't expect to see how much of a beating she could take as well even if she is still delicate compared to them.
Watching her now he could see she is somehow annoyed with something but he hadn't a clue as to what. Sitting there as healthy as can been when he just carried her back here the previous afternoon as a bloody rag doll, it almost made him wonder if yesterday had impacted her at all mentally. Today though, she had not said much of anything, mainly remaining against the same tree they dined at the previous morning while he sat keeping an eye on her and a lookout for potential threats. All of the others went off on their own until that evening where he should then have a plan in mind.
Once upon a time he had loved only himself and sought to prove his existence by murdering others and now he is a respected leader of a village with people he loves and loves him in return. Looking at the woman before him he should have some idea as to what he should do but he simply did not. From the glow to her skin to the blue tint to her silky black hair, his eyes roamed over her. At first glance she is quite unassuming but when you feel her power and you really look into her eyes, it gives it all away to him at least.
That was what did it he supposed. Being able to recognize certain things just by looking into their eyes, it was a first that this time he has seen the look in her eyes but it wasn't nearly as intense. In fact it was just like she had revealed; a missing part of her own soul. Though she certainly had loneliness from other events in her life it mostly stemmed from that lacking chunk and it pained him to see it. It forced him to remember his days of insomnia because he thought the beast inside would eat at his soul should he fall asleep.
She lives with this pain and he could only barely remember his own soul leaving his dead body. She has pushed hers out several times and had a chunk severed from it. Her eyes told the story of her life but it had also caught his attention at how happy and innocent she has remained through it all somehow. The woman is a conundrum and he wants her all to himself.
'I want to protect her and that innocence,' he already knew, and yet he also wanted more, so much more.
With the same patience that his sister had told him to use, he passed most of the afternoon by just letting her sit there and have her space. It wasn't until a couple hours before their last meal that she slowly stood and stretched with a yawn escaping her mouth. With a dazzling smile aimed his way she approached while he continued to wait patiently to see what is on her mind now.
"Want to walk around the village," she inquired.
Getting up he matched her steps with his silent answer. From what he could tell she has dealt with whatever caused her to be so silent. The village had its own hustle and bustle even though some of it was mostly at night. He could at least enjoy that the mornings have always been quiet, giving him time to sit with Kagome outside as the dawn came about this morning. Such a small thing and yet he enjoyed it like a rare delicacy.
Seeing a few of the emotions swirling is those eyes he remembered how quickly he gets away from himself when he wants to put them there, know that is the cause of them being there. Though a bit mellow today he still remembered the times he has kissed those soft lips. She always wore this look of why?
He wants to change it, why should she wonder why at all?
He listened to this sister's chiding that she called advice and though it did make sense to him he now felt like they are more distant. He rather liked it before she had implanted the thought of pushing Kagome away if he doesn't let things grow between them at its own rate. She had insinuated he is being a fool in love but is he? How would he know or figure it out? He knows familial love but this with Kagome is a whole other playing field along with the thought of being in love.
He could see the others going to different places and though she looked interested in some, others she kept her eyes away from. Seeing her attention lock in on something, following her line of sight and where the smile was aimed at he noticed a candy store.
"Do you like sweets," she suddenly asked him.
"Yes," he answered, wondering just what she is thinking about.
"Let's go in there," she grabbed his arm, surprising him just a little as she eagerly headed towards the doors.
Bells jingled overhead and she took a deep breath in before her eyes searched for the rectangular boxes that she hopes is here. Letting him go she went over to the other aisles, her eyes lighting up as she secured her prize and proceeded to the check out. After she was done she noticed a small fence enclosure tucked back behind the front doors.
"A puppy," she smiled excited, instantly bending over to see him or her.
"A puppy," Gaara questioned as he noticed her reaction to the cute and fuzzy animal. Watching its small tongue lick her hand as it wagged its tail he turned towards the fence. He didn't often see one and at one point he wouldn't have cared but he wondered if the puppy would take to him as well. Mimicking her movements he put his hand down to let the puppy sniff him. After a moment he began rubbing his head his hand and Gaara took it as a sign to pet him, recalling the times when Kiba pets Akamaru or gives him a scratch behind the ears.
"The puppy is up for adoption, he is the last one. We had a surprise litter," the shopkeeper said before coming over. "Would you want to take him home with you, he seems to really like you two?"
Kagome bit her lip as she looked at the puppy a bit sad. "I wish I could but I'm not anywhere near home," she rubbed his chin. "Such a cute little guy, I'm sure someone will give you a great home," she spoke to the puppy.
After exiting the shop she held up the small box she purchase, "Want some pocky," she offered and pulled out the chocolate dipped treat for him to try. Looking over at her he accepted it, seeing her smile they retraced their steps back to the inn he assumed.
Sitting down he claimed his usual spot, happy to notice Kagome chose to sit by him still. The others came in and took their seats, all digging into the steaming food as they chatted. Sakura turned her green eyes to Kagome, "Kagome, want to join us for a soak in the hot spring after dinner?"
"Yeah, I can't pass that up," she gave an excited smile at the thought of soaking in the hot water.
She ate with a happy enthusiasm, joking with the others and chiming in with light banter. Eyes lighting up with a splendor of light blues and purples, mixing around as the lights bounced reflections off of them. The hurt had dimmed and along with her worries, being veiled by her cheerfulness she is experiencing right now. He wondered if her soul looks anything like her eyes or changed with her kaleidoscope of emotions that she so easily displays for all to see.
Never will he ever want to see those eyes as anything but this, it made him feel lighter and warm. He didn't usually partake in small talk, just talking when he felt it is needed and mostly with his siblings and Kagome. He did enjoy seeing others at ease like that. He wished he could have been more like that but the events of his childhood had emotionally crippled him. It didn't bother him much but it would be nice to converse so easily like the others do. Kagome is thankfully chatty enough to make up for it and he enjoys how she eases him into topics with that never ending curiosity.
When the food was cleared they all went to do their own things. Knowing that she will be with the other women at the hot spring he left to go do something that has been on his mind all through dinner. He will join the guys later after his business is finished. Kagome noticed his silent departure, wanting to go after him but the girls hurried her along. "Be right there," she called back, deciding to just let him be since he didn't seem upset, he just had something on his mind to do.
Sinking into the water she sighed in bliss, "I really missed this since I was last here."
"I hear you have had a lot of training," Ino mentioned while she tipped her head back and stare up at the darkening sky, taking note of all the stars appearing with the diminishing sunlight.
Kagome was doing the same, she loved being able to see the sky so easily back in her travels and now she is in another time where she can gaze at it some more. "Yeah I did, first with Lee and then with Shira while I stayed in Suna. I could tell the difference yesterday, my reaction time was better and I could maneuver more easily."
"How did you get so hurt," Sakura asked, before going on to say, "I thought you were facing off with a demon but you came back after fighting with a shinobi."
Sinking into the water a little bit at the painful memory of when that shinobi tossed her around. "I did, I was fighting the demon and fell into a deep hole. When I found a tunnel he discovered me and started to make the ground cave in so I ended up finding an opening to an underground spring. That was my ticket out when I managed to flood the area enough to get out. I trapped him in a barrier and gave the finishing blow but he had already gotten me in the back and chest. I continued on to the rift, wanting to double check the area of the seal for myself. I'm guessing the demon I am after is who had spoken to me in the forest on the way there. When I made it to the seal the place was a mess and too late did I realize the area had explosive tags, meant to be a trap. After I thankfully made it out of where I was trapped the shinobi had grabbed me. He started throwing me around like a rag doll. I cut the Achilles tendon in his right foot, stabbed his left but I couldn't bring myself to kill another human being so that is basically when you guys noticed me."
"You have never killed another person," Ino asked.
"No, just demons and I don't even like that," she admitted, it just didn't feel good. "I will do what I need to do to protect but it doesn't mean I feel good about taking another's life away."
They agreed to some degree with that sentiment, they really enjoy the peace and will fight to protect it. Ino gained a sly smile, changing the mood real quickly. "So it would seem we each have a man in our lives. Who I am most curious about is you Kagome," looking at the girl in question.
"Me," she pointed at herself.
"Well yeah, I mean I have been pining after Sai for a few years, I caught on to Temari and Shikamaru ages ago, and Sakura has only had eyes for Sasuke since we were little kids. Gaara though, this is totally something new. So are you two an official item yet," she gushed while Sakura turned interested eyes towards her. Temari just sat back with a smirk, more than happy to see Kagome squirm.
"An item, no, we're not together at all," she informed them truthfully.
"Maybe he is a slow mover," Ino thought out loud.
"A slow mover, yeah right," Temari laughed out. "I just gave him a little advice since he clearly was being a total fool."
All eyes turned towards her but she didn't take any of it back. "What kind of fool," Sakura asked.
"Oh you know the kind. I'm sure you will figure it out. Trust me; he can't seem to think he ever does enough for the girl. Shira volunteered to protect the outskirts to our most northern border, a station that is permanent, but he even called him back as a personal request. He bought her a new wardrobe, furnished the empty conjoined room next to his, smooth talked Kakashi into giving her a nice sum of money. The second he notices that she likes or enjoys something he files it away. I'm sure you will notice at some point or another. Honestly he actually almost snapped when he found out Naruto's pants were down in front of her during the bathroom incident. Then Sasuke appears and asks if they are fighting over his curious little kitten. You should have seen the sand explode; he ended up shattering half the windows in there because he was so mad," Temari laughed while the other two were shocked for a moment before their eyes zeroed in on Kagome who looked uncomfortable.
"Temari stop," she softly pleaded. "He is only doing these things because I came from another time to stop this demon. We shouldn't make this out to be more than it is."
"Really now," she sang out. "I recall overhearing you accidentally spill out that Gaara has actually made a move on you and I quote, "What, I did no such thing! He's the one that keeps coming on to me-," she said when Kankuro had purposely riled her up. I really enjoyed watching the two bicker."
"You were there the whole time," Kagome looked at her, jerking forward in surprise.
"Well yeah, I was the one supposed to be keeping you company but when I noticed you two were about to meet I just let it happen. Kankuro was certainly not about to pass up the chance at meeting you when Gaara was supposed to be busy all afternoon. We even spied on you, seeing our baby brother clothes shopping with you. You can deny it all you want but this is far more than you just being a guest in Suna," she stated, already knowing just what he feels but not letting on about those private conversations.
"Wow, I wish I could turn a guy's head like that," Ino stared at the blushing girl.
"Me too," Sakura agreed. "I never pegged him for the doting type. I can't even get Sasuke to go on a date with me much less take me seriously."
"You guys," Kagome mumbled, "It isn't like that," she insisted. "Can we talk about something else now; I know you guys have love interests."
"Not yet," Temari cut in, suddenly determined to talk about something. "If I am right about Gaara, you defeat the demon and remain in our time; would you accept his affections?"
Kagome recognized that look; she wants to still be protective over her little brother. "I do really enjoy being by him, I feel good when he is near since he always looks out for my best interest…" she trailed off thinking. Remembering the times he has kissed her she felt really glad they won't be able to see just what kind of reaction that got out of her body. "I would but since that will never come about it is a moot point," she finished confidently.
'This girl is certainly stubborn,' Temari decided as she looked at her a bit exasperated. Hearing the answer she hoped for it will only just be a matter of time and patience. She let her change the topic and finish enjoying her soak in the hot spring without them making her squirm any further.
Going back into the room they prepared for bed before gathering for the meeting to hear what Gaara's thoughts are on the next few days. The guys came back to the room while they were pulling their futons out and putting their clothes away. Kagome walked out just as the guys went into their room, all minus one who appeared to be a bit off. Seeing him approach while holding something in a towel she grew curious as usual. "Gaara, is something up?"
Watching the cloth move he finally held out the bundle for her to take. Seeing a cute face pop out, a warm tongue licked her chin before it yipped. "The puppy," she said surprised, "but how?" Her eyes went back to him as she cuddled the little guy to her chest, noting he must have just had a bath.
"I adopted him after dinner," Gaara informed her as he watched the puppy go crazy licking her.
"You did," she looked to him and then the puppy, seeing how happy the puppy looked.
"Yes, he made you smile and he really likes you so I decided the puppy should come with us," he explained while the puppy enjoyed the affection she is already showering him with.
Looking at him a bit shocked, "Gaara, how will he ever make the trip. Wouldn't he catch ill or something," she said concerned about all the rain and heat they travelled in.
"Kagome, I'm sure I can keep one little puppy safe. I spoke with the shop owner about his care and asked for Kiba's advice. It couldn't be that hard to take care of him," he regarded the fuzz ball, pulling the towel from them before it fell to the ground.
Temari and the others were poking their heads out their rooms, "See I told you, he notices anything that will make her happy and files it away for later. Gaara has hardly ever had anything to do with animals since we live in a desert, he is doing all of this for her even though it does appear he has a soft spot for the puppy," she remarked while the other two just nodded along.
"Man, we should start taking notes. Gaara certainly knows how to make a lady happy," Kiba watched the two interact with the puppy.
"Not really," Choji cut in, "he knows how to make her happy because he is very observant. He wouldn't do this for just anyone. What we should take notes on is how gains it all since not every girl likes the same things."
"I guess he really does like Kagome," Naruto admitted as he came to that realization.
"She would have been just as happy if it were a kitten," Sasuke scoffed, his ego a bit bruised.
Shikamaru gave a long sigh, "I think it is more than it being puppy, it is the gesture. He wanted to make her happy, the puppy must have done so earlier and so he did what he wanted and that is made her happy. He is always doting on her; I can only imagine how spoiled the puppy will be or any future children."
"Children," they all cut in, staring at him as he leaned against the door.
"Really," he looked at all of them. "Unless she refuses him, which I doubt she will, they will definitely be together at some point in the future. Once Gaara puts his mind to something no one can stop him. He wants her and puts high value in her happiness. You might not have noticed but she looks to him for basically everything even if it is unintentional."
Kankuro gave a short laugh from where he sat in the room, "I would have to say but Gaara quickly asserted himself as being the one she can go to for anything even though she doesn't. There is no way he is going to let her keep excusing his actions as something else. I couldn't believe it at first but that Priestess has him wrapped around her little finger and doesn't even realize it."
Gaara pulled a bone out for the puppy to enjoy chewing on while they went on with the small meeting. "If you guys are all done we should get a start on things," his eyes catching all of theirs as they realized he had clearly heard and known they were all staring at them.
Kagome set the puppy down, watching him carry his bone and follow Gaara as he went to sit at the table. She giggled when he tripped and tumbled into Gaara's leg before he was picked up and plopped down into his lap. She resumed her spot at his side, trying to focus on the meeting. "Little rascal," she called him, pulling Gaara's coat out of his mouth and giving him the bone that dropped to the floor.
"I had not come to a definite plan but it would seem the demon is not ready to attack and I cannot wait around forever for him to do so, I would like your opinions on the matter," he stated as he got the meeting underway.
"I will just go hunt him down, he is bound to come after me eventually," Kagome put her two cents in. "There is no sense in everyone waiting around when you all have lives to get back to."
"Absolutely not," he said firmly, almost scowling in distaste of the idea but somehow managed to keep his calm composure.
"I agree with Kagome, we are the ones in the prophecy that are supposed to take down this demon. We can just go out hunting for him, defeat the guy and return," Naruto added in.
"And go up against of his followers along, why do you think we all came along," Kankuro interjected.
"I agree with him. Though he is after Kagome and she is supposed to defeat him with Naruto's aid, they cannot do it alone. It would end up with Kagome facing the demon alone while Naruto is pitted against his followers," Shikamaru pointed out.
"I'm sure you have more to add to that," Gaara noted. "What do you suggest?"
"This demon is so troublesome. Basically he doesn't plan on attacking Kagome right now. He might be weak from breaking the seal and trying to adjust to the new era so it will be some time until he most likely tests the waters against her. We should all go home; once he finally does come forward to test his power against hers you will notify Konoha. A team including Naruto will then be sent out so we are prepared for the real battle. This demon is wary of the power she wields, if he wasn't then he wouldn't have gone to the lengths it took to break the seal early and then flee. He was also there watching her battle the other demon and gauging her skills," his mind coming up with what seemed the most likely case.
"If we do that Sunagokure will be put at risk for an attack," Kagome protested.
"The Leaf village was already completely wiped out two years ago, we rebuilt. Suna had been under attack shortly before that, they even managed to capture Gaara but he had kept the whole village safe, I'm sure he will do so again. We can divert the battle to the desert just by simply taking you as bait for him to follow. This demon is cautious so he will probably wait a while to attack. He has known for thousands of years that you will be coming to defeat him and that has made you a threat to his continued existence," Shikamaru concluded.
Dew collected on the grass, the small droplets shining in the morning. Their legs wet from the moisture as they puppy romped around, his curiosity knew no bounds as he put that nose to work to work when he came across a bug on a thick blade of grass. He yipped playfully as it suddenly flew away and he hopped around trying to chase after it for a few feet. His light brown fur had a golden outline as the sun's morning rays softly touched them. The sky had a dusting of pinks and blues over the treetops before them as they pair continued to watch the puppy have fun discovering new things.
She worried her but he already figured out what is most likely on her mind. She turned to him, softly pleading, "Gaara please reconsider," her hands together in her hope.
He knew this would be coming eventually. He turned to face her fully, enclosing her hands with his own as he looked down at her and gave a firm, "No."
She didn't give up though as she looked up at him, "please," she begged.
He brushed the knuckles of his right hand across her cheek as he gazed down at her before his chest grew tight in remembrance of her request. "Don't ask such a thing from me," his voice showing the ache it caused him. She remained quiet as he let her take in the distance between them, his thumb tracing over her lip as he gave her plenty of time to pull away. The kiss was soft, only lasting a few seconds before he pulled back. Her eyes slowly fluttered open and went to his, trying to read the emotion on his face. His head descended, arms pulling her close as he delivered one a little more passionate while they stood out there on the grassy plain.
Her breath coming out a little labored as their lips parted, as he fought himself for control. "Kagome, I could not and will not leave you behind. Naruto cannot, he is needed in his village as well. We cannot have you two running around demon hunting." His yes looked over her features from her slightly rosy cheeks to her pink lips looking a little swollen while her eyes searched his. "Shikamaru is right, since he hasn't attacked yet, that means he isn't ready. He could have tried to strike you down yesterday when you were already injured but even then he stayed away. It will be some time until he decides to seek you out."
"Gaara this is your people, lives could be at stake," she pressed.
"Lives are always at stake, the village was a target because of me. I will always protect the village and everyone I care about, that includes you. The village is always at risk, which is why we have guards and have a system in place. It will be at more risk if something happens to you, Naruto, or both of you. There is a lot about our world you still don't know so it is best this way. Now enough on this topic, my mind is set," he ended the conversation there, looking away to check on the puppy.
Her eyebrows knitted together in anger, "No, not enough. It is my life and I will protect everyone by staying behind if I have to."
He looked back at her sharply, "Then you will endanger the world more instead of protecting it. You can try all you want but I will not be leaving you behind, that is not how we work here. Would you do that to a friend, comrade, or anyone?"
She looked away; face red in anger as she refused to answer the question since it would only go in favor. "My life is here because I am a necessary sacrifice if need be."
"Don't deem yourself a dead woman walking before you have even fought the demon himself," growing angry as well.
"I have no way home unless the Gods give it to me. I'm not meant to return because I won't be able to," she said, squeezing her fists.
Placing his hands on her shoulders, feeling them tense up he retorted, "Maybe because you are meant to remain here. Did you ever think of that?"
"Gaara don't," she demanded.
He spun her around, crushing her against him. "I may not know exactly how you feel but I know you feel something. I have felt a pull since the moment I looked in your eyes, if you think I am just going to let go then you are wrong. Death cannot have you, I won't let it so start living," he always managed to win or leave her thoughts scattered. He brushed a few strands out of her face; his angry eyes had softened while his hand continued to brush through her locks. "This is my second chance at life; I won't let you plan your funeral before you're even dead and I doubt your loved ones would want you doing it as well."
The puppy ran up to them yipping before running circle around them. The grass had slowly dried with the sun shining overhead. He pulled her to sit down with him in his lap, choosing to not let her go. She remained silent at his declaration and bold words. It wasn't that she doesn't feel anything; it is more like she ignored it since she didn't see the point in acknowledging it.
Resting her head against his chest, his words sunk in, digging down deep. She had just refused to believe Temari about his feelings but knew deep down that she has been lying to herself. There is a pull between them, even now she felt so at ease around him that she is sitting in his lap and enjoying it. These feelings felt strong from the beginning but still, to accept it is something totally different in her mind. How could he so easily just accept it and know that he wants her? What does he want from her or how much of her does he want?
"As it stands Kagome, you will be returning to Suna with me. After breakfast we will start the journey back and make a detour around the country the Village Hidden in the Rain is located in," he could feel her give even though she didn't want to. Watching the puppy wear himself out he enjoyed holding her in his arms during the quiet of this morning.
They let several minutes pass them by as Kagome began to realize and wrap her mind around the fact Gaara seems to just truly want her. He wanted her; this isn't like in the past when she is the reincarnation of her crush's love, this isn't her being the guardian of a powerful jewel that she has already destroyed, this isn't even about her being a time travelling priestess that was sent here to destroy a formidable foe. This is only about her exclusively because he wants her to stay. She scowled, 'Temari is going to realize that I can't ignore what Gaara's actions have mostly and truly been. How can this all be happening so fast?'
Still he didn't make hardly any demands of her other than to stop looking at the battle as the end of her life and that he won't leave her behind. Really she could hardly bring herself to be mad earlier, she forced the anger out. It is just frustrating but she hardly knew why. Her eyes lowered in thought, 'why am I frustrated?'
By the time she left the life she came to know her view on things have changed if not grown firmer. Her wants romantically had even changed since she had matured over that time. She came to respect Sesshoumaru for his more level headed think and calmer, if not stoic personality rather than the constant butting of heads she had with InuYasha. Having calmed down over the course of her adventures she has to admit, her and InuYasha would not have made the best fit in the long run. They were not even as close as they once were so she really could not cling to being in love with him because it had tamed down before it ever turned to passion. Sitting in his arms strangely felt similar to home, like she is supposed to be here.
Gaara may not have had the words returned but her body language has always done the talking for her so that is why he hasn't pushed her to answer or return anything. He will be patient and he understands it has only been a month now. Just like it took time to gain the respect of his village, longer than it took to become Kazekage, it will take time to really grow a bond instead of just this pull he initially felt. It is already more than that for him but she has yet to acknowledge it herself. This demon had better hurry up, he doesn't want this battle constantly hanging over her head and getting in the way of things. He may be patient but even saints have a limit and his would not last nearly as long.
The trip back to Suna, where he calls home, went a little like this:
Day 1: they departed and the puppy took a nap in Kagome's arms for a while. When it woke the puppy decided to mark its territory every three feet making Kankuro impatient.
Day 2: Kankuro got mad when the puppy began marking its territory and slowing things down so he picked it up by the scruff of its neck in his anger. The now scared puppy proceeded to pee right on him. This resulted in them finding a stream and later a place in a village to wash his clothes and clean off some more.
Day 3: Gaara decided to transport them on his sand. That went well until a flock of birds caught the puppy's attention and it didn't realize that gravity still applied to them when he jumped off in an attempt to chase the birds. Kagome screamed bloody murder and out of habit she lunged to grab the puppy and failed to secure a hold on his sand. Gaara didn't even break pace, he just manipulated the sand to grab them both and then created a somewhat cage around the puppy.
Day 4: They walked for a while until the puppy caught the scent of something new that it just couldn't ignore. Going off into the bushes the puppy came back being chased by an angry mother bear since it stole her cub's fish. Kagome was quick to get the fish out of the puppy's mouth but the mother bear wasn't happy and instead decided they looked good. She begged Gaara to not harm the bear and just get them out of there. Temari found quite a bit of humor in everything but Kankuro turned to Gaara and said, "You just had to get a puppy, it couldn't have been something that is less apt to get in trouble."
Day 5: They travelled the desert and somehow the puppy sniffed out a scorpion of all things. Had Gaara not been keeping an eye on him they weren't sure what would have happened to the little guy. Later on it came trotting up to Gaara with a lizard head in his mouth, the body and everything else still hanging out and squirming around, clearly alive. Kagome screeched and though Gaara praised the puppy, he also let the lizard go, opting to give him the bone instead.
Day 6: Making it home late in the night they didn't think about the fact the puppy tended to only sleep a few hours at a time. When they woke up Kankuro went chasing all over the place looking for the little bugger before barging into Kagome's room and finding him curled up against her stomach. The living room was a mess of stuffing, the stairs had pee and poop on them. It ate soap and that came out as soapy diarrhea right outside his door. The decorative fruit basket was chewed to bits and pieces. His bone is currently in the toilet and it looked like he must have fallen in at one point since Kankuro slipped on the wet floor.
"This puppy is nothing but a terror," he yelled, having become highly irritated with the little fur ball.
Gaara easily communicated to Kankuro that he should shut up with a single look as he came from his bedroom.
"That dog is sleeping on your girlfriend's bed after being in the toilet," he was quick to say in a much calmer fashion since he knows Gaara is a neat person. Watching his back stiffen as his eyes looked at the puppy, he felt quite satisfied with how well that worked. By the time Gaara was done the room was cleaned until it was spotless as well as they entire house. He ended up needing some professional cleaners to get the job done. Kagome on the other hand was not pleased and had nowhere to rest while the place was in her own words, "being torn apart."
He laughed and said, "Now the next time you look at something you should think of your actions before you react with any emotion."
"What is that supposed to mean," she asked aggravated.
"Gaara only got that terror because you most likely showed some form of happiness. He never would have paid it attention otherwise or even decided to get him," he accused.
"Hey, he loves the puppy just as much as I do," she defended.
"Yeah right, are you sure about that because the second you show a liking for something he stashes the knowledge away for later use? I bet the second you get tired of it he will have it gone in the blink of an eye," he challenged.
"He would never," she declared.
"Kankuro," Gaara got their attention. "The puppy is like a child, you have to show it love and enforce discipline. We can't expect the puppy to know what is right and wrong or where it can or cannot pee. Though you are right that I may not have given him attention until she showed interest, I did decide to adopt because I wanted him too."
Kagome looked smug as Kankuro huffed. "So where is he supposed to pee or poop because he is currently doing so right now," he pointed out as Gaara once again stiffened. "We have nothing but streets around us and a lot of sand, I'm sure the people of the village will just love coming to know you as the Kazekage who let his dog turn the streets into his personal toilet," he called after his brother's retreating form. "Oww," he shouted as Kagome pinched him.
"Serves you right," she said as she passed by. "Gaara, how about I clean it this time," she called after his brother.
"Yeah, like he will let her lift a finger around this household. She is like his own personal princess until she agrees to become his queen," he mumbled.
"You sure are irritable," Temari remarked as she gave him a look.
He walked off, heading to go do something that doesn't involve the puppy. Going into his room he decided he just needed to leave the house entirely and get away from the yippy thing to clear his head. Going down the streets it wasn't until he walked into the lounge area where he usually gets together with a few guys. 'Hmm, I don't think we have taken Kagome anywhere in Suna,' he realized suddenly. In fact he doubted anyone even knew she existed or Gaara's interest in her.
"Kankuro, where the hell have you been," one of his buddies yelled over to him.
"Mission outside of the village," he informed them. "Hey what are you guys doing tomorrow?"
"Nothing unless we get a mission, are you looking for something to do?"
"I am going to show someone around the village this week, they're new here and will probably soon be a permanent resident. I will introduce you tomorrow, for now let's play a game," he said changing the subject.
Returning home later that day he found his brother cleaning up after that puppy and trying to enforce this discipline he had mentioned. It became clear though that his little brother had absolutely no idea how to discipline an animal. "You have no idea what you are doing, do you," he stood in the doorway while Gaara stared the puppy down.
Surprisingly the whimpered and sat down fully, his brother did nothing more than stare some more and the puppy proceeded to lie down, covering his snout with his paws while his tail curled under. It was so pathetically cute in his opinion; he really didn't know how the he pulled it off so effectively or how Gaara remained firm. Being the one the most irritated at his messes, his hard exterior cracked and started to crumble away whereas the younger of them didn't even twitch. Thankfully no one had noticed so he won't have to get bothered about it later, still this fur ball…
"Kankuro, I am heading to the store. Can you let Kagome know so she can keep an eye on him," he asked.
"Yeah… sure," he replied, a bit speechless that his brother is catching on so easily to having a puppy.
He wandered around the place looking for where she went off to. It was certainly a big enough place with plenty of rooms. The place itself is five stories tall, a very wide five stories in terms of space. Passing the second story he heard his sister giggle. 'Since when does she giggle?' He thought and proceeded towards her room.
Knocking on the partially open door he could see the two of them paging through a magazine when they looked up to him. "Gaara left to the store, he wants Kagome to watch the fur ball of doom," he informed them.
She whistled and the puppy came running, happy as its tongue lolled out and tail wagged in excitement. Jumping up he watched the small thing face plant the side of the bed before landing his back. The girls were instantly all over him. "Geesh, that puppy has been cooed over and cuddled more than any baby I have ever seen," he snorted before leaving them be, heading off to bed early.
The next morning the puppy had potty pads around the whole place, sod in his own personal room, balls, chew toys, bones, a crate, Frisbee, treats, food dishes, a grooming station, and who knows what else. Now that Gaara had someone to spend money on, and the little fur ball, he didn't appear to be able to stop. This place is like doggy heaven with all of the nice new doggy items and by the end of the day new furniture arrived that the girls picked out the night before. They liked so much that he had bought more than what would fit in the living room so they furnished a few other rooms as well.
Kagome appeared to be surprised and a bit uncomfortable when she suddenly had him insisting she pick something out to make her feel more at home. Kankuro watched her; he wanted to see just what she will do with him displaying all of this wealth. Seeing her look around a little at everything she seemed to have made some sort of decision.
"Well, could I get a few picture frames? I brought photos with me and a few pictures the kids had drawn," she answered his urging with a request that is quite modest.
"That's it, you don't want anything else," Kankuro said finally.
"Not really, just a place to keep them safe or something. I just don't want something to happen to them really," she said, feeling uncomfortable for asking for anything.
'Well,' he figured, 'she is the type that travels light and it is something that would mean a lot to her. She isn't the materialistic or flashy type so it did make sense. Gaara will have to be observant since she wouldn't be the type to take advantage of him like that.'
Gaara was about to say something when a knock came at the door. "Just a moment," he excused himself. When he reappeared a few minutes later he didn't seem all that happy. "Can I take you shopping tomorrow instead, I'm needed at the office," he asked.
"Oh don't worry about it, I really don't have to have anything," she began backing out of it.
"Tomorrow Kagome, I will be taking you out for lunch," he changed tactics. "I will try to be home by dinner, if not I will send a message," he departed.
Kagome stood there looking and feeling guilty. "What has you upset," Temari asked.
"He wouldn't have to be doing half of this had I not come along," she pointed out.
"If he didn't want to have all of this he simply wouldn't. He is trying make you feel comfortable here," Temari replied. "This may come out as a bit cruel but I hope you are stuck in our time because I want to see my youngest brother happy. He could have easily left you in the hands of Kakashi or even had one of the other villages take charge but he values you and wants you here in his home. He could have even just assigned guards to you and put you in an empty apartment but didn't. Well enough of this, we should go eat," she began dragging them out the door.
"You have restaurants here," Kagome asked.
"Well yeah," they gave her an odd look.
"I guess I must not have noticed one anywhere," she looked around trying to spot anything that looked like it could be one.
"I know where we should go, I told the guys I would introduce you to them today," Kankuro said as he took the lead.
"They guys," Kagome looked at him for further explanation.
"My buddies, you haven't really met anyone or seen Suna so I thought this week would be a good time so you don't feel like a stranger here," he replied before thinking, 'and so you come to acknowledge this place as home.'
"This will be nice," she said, "I wish I was treated half as good right off the bat in the Feudal Era but oh well, every time has its own ways."
"How were you treated," Temari asked, having not heard much about her past.
"Well I was dragged down the well by Mistress Centipede to 500 years into the past. When I emerged from the well it and the Goshinboku tree were all I recognized so I ran towards the tree and on it was a boy pinned to it with dog ears. He only appeared to be sleeping but with the roots growing around him it appeared he has been for a long time. After I checked to see if the ears were real several arrows were shot off at me. That is how I met the villagers and Priestess of Edo, a village that will one day become Tokyo where I lived on the family shrine. They tied me up and thought I was a demon or spy. Not until Priestess Kaede noticed my likeliness to her deceased sister had I been released. Well Mistress Centipede attacked; I freed the boy from the tree who had awoken. A powerful jewel was bit from my side and once the demon was dead he turned on me in an attempt to gain the jewel for himself and that is basically how I met InuYasha. After that I was often running for my life and fumbling around trying to shoot with a bow and arrow. I can't even remember how many times I nearly died or was kidnapped," she trailed off remembering those days while the other two looked at her a bit alarmed.
"You know once it is out that Gaara has an interest in her we should probably consider ourselves as her bodyguards for a while. Some of these growing nations and villages might want to use her to get at him," Temari quickly deduced.
"Yeah but we are in Suna, I doubt someone could take her that easily and she can fight to some degree," Kankuro was quick to point out. "I bet Gaara has already set up precautionary measures before she even arrived to the village. Okay we're here," he walked inside, heading straight for his usual area and grabbing menus along the way.
Sitting down in a nice circular booth they were quick to scan things over in the menu to figure out what they want to eat or drink. "Hey Kankuro, is this who you were talking about introducing us too yesterday," his buddy came up with a sly grin.
Looking up from his menu to acknowledge him he nodded, "Yeah, this is Kagome. She is currently staying as a guest of ours and hopefully soon a citizen. Kagome this here is Kazuo, a friend of mine," he introduced.
"Kagome, it is nice to meet you," he kissed her hand and slid right in when he noticed Kankuro isn't sitting right next to her.
"It's nice to meet you too Kazuo," she politely replied.
"So what brings to our village," he asked right off the bat to get a conversation going between them.
"Well," she looked over at Kankuro, unsure how to answer that.
Seeing her plight and the nature of the topic he covered, "we can't discuss the full details at this time but you can consider her an ally of our village and the Leaf Village. She is quite important to both village," giving his buddy a hint that they cannot speak further about it.
"Oh really, so where do you come from," he asked, yet another question she couldn't answer.
"How about I just brief you on a few things since we can't release those details? She is Kagome Higurashi, an 18 year old Priestess; she stays with us and trained for a short time under Shira. We have a mission with her and the Leaf but it is on a temporary pause. Minus small talk about food and such, everything else is on a need to know basis," he concluded while he folded his menu back up and sat it down on the table.
"A woman of mystery, I like the sound of that," he flirted, finding her all the more appealing.
She had an indecisive look on her face, "it's really not like that. I just have special circumstances," she replied while looking back to the menu. "Temari, you have been around me the most, do you have any suggestion for a meal?"
"Hmm, yeah I would go with this one and you can try what I got if you want," She offered before taking a cursory look around the room.
Kazuo studied her for a moment, "Since you are staying with them you must have met our Kazekage a few times. He is pretty cool isn't he?"
"Gaara," she thought about and really she thought everyone here is cool. "Well I think everyone here is pretty cool, I'm pretty limited with what I can do but the fact you guys can use the elements is really neat and convenient."
"Yeah, we are pretty cool but only Gaara can manipulate the sand like he does," he pointed out to her.
"Oh, I didn't know that ability was only performed by him. It is very useful, certainly saved me and Remy on the way back here," thinking back to that rascal.
"Remy, who is that," Kazuo questioned.
Kankuro looked over to him and answered, "Gaara adopted a puppy on our last trip. The little terror is back at the house."
"You guys, we didn't put him away before we left. I will be right back," Kazuo let her out as they watched her run out of the restaurant as he appreciated her figure.
"She single," he suddenly asked now that he has a chance.
Temari looked over at her brother, wondering what he is up to. He just made this girl out to be exactly what a guy would chase after. "It's complicated," he confessed.
"Wait so you two are," he prodded.
"No not me, we are a bit like her bodyguards. I want her to feel comfortable in Suna so she will choose to stay here and live, that is my goal right now," he explained.
His friend gave a lecherous grin, "give her a night with me and she won't be leaving any time soon."
Temari wacked him on the head with her smaller fan, "she doesn't like perverts and she certainly isn't that kind of girl. Anyways I would start considering her as taken," she let out but could see that wouldn't be enough at that point.
"I need to refill my drink, I will be back in a bit after she turns up," he said as he got up from the table to head back to the bar.
A waitress came for their orders, Temari ordering for her before she turned to Kankuro. "You are making her out to be a nice juicy steak in front of ravenous wolves you idiot. I thought you wanted her and Gaara to get together as well," she looked at him for an explanation.
"I do, it's just the truth, we shouldn't just go around saying all of those things to just anyone and her relationship status is complicated. Gaara clearly wants her but has yet to ask her out or even do anything romantic. We have no clue what has gone on between those two since we first left but I want her to choose to stay in Suna for Gaara's benefit. In my mind those two are already as good as together but this is Gaara, the Kazekage, she could get targeted if word gets out that he has a romantic interest," he laid it all out.
"I guess we should ask Gaara what he would like us to do about prospective suitors," she surmised while Kankuro agreed with her.
Kagome came back soon after the food was delivered, soon being joined by Kazuo again. Just as she was about to dig in to her food a sudden thought occurred to her. "We didn't get anything for Gaara," she suddenly said, making the others halt in their actions.
"Why would we, he isn't even here," Kankuro replied.
"Well he left to work before eating anything, shouldn't we get him something," she questioned, knowing that he has already done a lot for her.
Temari and Kankuro shared a look just before Kazuo opened his mouth, "Can't he just- oww," someone's heel dug into his foot at the same time he was kicked in the shin.
"That is a great idea Kagome," Temari praised, glad she came up with such a great idea.
"I think you should take it to him Kagome," Kankuro chimed in, "I will give you directions to his office door."
After finishing her food his was all set to go in a to-go box. Heading down the road she had no idea that she is being followed. "Kazuo just followed her," Temari stated, watching them from a distance.
"All the better, if Gaara does anything to show his interest to Kagome then he will know just why she should be considered as taken. Gaara will know he is there and guys will stop leering at her," Kankuro replied feeling great about this turn in events.
Kagome walked down the halls, occasionally having to turn around and never noticing the figure trying to stay out of sight. Finally making her way to the top she counted the doors before she knocked, hearing his soft voice bidding her entry. Seeing him at his desk dressed as the Kazekage minus the hat, he served to make him look peaceful.
"Kagome," he blinked, surprised to see her here.
"Yeah, I brought you some lunch. Kankuro and Temari said you enjoy this dish, we wanted to make sure you had something to eat," she stopped, eyeing the others in the room that looked like they will attack her with one false move.
"Leave us," he instructed them as he got up, "leave the door cracked."
They all filed out, each of them taking an interest in her as she stood there holding the enclosed meal. Once the door was like he wants it he came around the desk, meeting her there as he gratefully took the box from her before turning towards her. "Thank you," he said knowing that he is indeed hungry and certainly didn't want to be at work when he knows she is around.
"It's no problem, I just felt bad that we went out to eat and you had gone to work with an empty stomach. I hope it's what you like," she said as she looked up at him.
"I'm sure it is but you are better," his hand cupped her face, drawing her in for a kiss. His lips moved softly against hers, feeling her hands on his chest.
"Gaara," her voice a bit breathless as her eyes fluttered open to look at him.
"Join me for lunch tomorrow," his request or demand came out as her heart thudded in her chest.
"Don't you have to work-,"
"I can easily make time for you," he interrupted. "So will you," it coming out as a question this time.
His knuckles brushing against her slender neck as he waited for his answer, "Uh yes."
Pulling her in once again he enjoyed her lips before he turned and pushed her against the desk before he easily lifted her on the surface. "Stay with me a while," he softly said before his lips made tracks down the side of her neck.
"Gaara isn't this inappropriate," she breathed out.
"I could care less; as far as I see it you are enjoying my affection. I want something to break up an already dull day at work," he claimed her lips again, silencing her protest and keeping her unaware of the eyes and ears outside of the door. "While I am here I want you to come up with a list of names for the puppy unless that is what we plan on calling him."
"He is your puppy, shouldn't you be naming him," she looked a bit confused.
"Let me clarify, I got him for us. I adopted him and I want you to help me name him," he went back to her neck, hearing the small moan when he caught her off guard. He wanted more but he reluctantly pulled before either of them became any more turned on. If they were to that stage in their relationship he would have closed that door and acted out a fantasy of his right on his desk. All sorts of mental images came to mind but for today he did what he set out to do, word will get around that she is his and that way no one will be after his chosen woman. "Come sit while I eat," pulling her from the desk to go behind it and sit on his lap.
Kagome watched him, feeling his left arm anchored around her as she attempted to gain control of her scattered thoughts. She grew embarrassed when she realized he already has her wet. 'What am I going to do, he has me in such a mess," she thought as she watched his lips for a moment as he ate. 'If I had the guts to play dirty I would,' she pouted as she bickered inside her head.
Gaara could see what he is doing to her but diligently ate his meal. This pleasure will help him hold out for the whole day while he remained stuck at work going over plans to better the village. Maybe tomorrow he could ask Kagome what she knew of such maters since she has now seen three time periods and is possibly more educated than anyone here. It was something he has slowly picked up, he has even caught her speaking other languages or reading text that is even hard for him to follow along. Her knowledge and perspective could possibly do a lot to help him around here.
"I would like to take you tomorrow but I have questions that should remain private. Would you mind just eating at the house instead?" He asked, watching her look not the least bit bothered.
"No I don't mind, I think I would prefer it since I prefer a more cozy setting," she informed him, as he kept that piece of information in mind.
"Would you mind keeping me company while I work until they come back," hoping she will stay with him a while longer.
"No, I don't have anything else to do other than be with the puppy and think of names. Is there something more I can do while I'm here," she asked.
"In the office I just want your company," not about to bore her with the drone of paperwork which is for his eyes only anyways.
"I mean in the village," she elaborated.
Giving a sidelong glance he replied, "You make it sound like you're not staying. I'm sure you will find something, you're too curious to not discover something or other. Tomorrow I might have something for you to do but we will discuss it over lunch."
He could still tell someone is outside that door and he narrowed his eyes. He is one that enjoys his privacy but someone obviously couldn't believe something, most likely his affections for the Priestess he guessed. "Did anything new happen today in the short time I have been here?"
"Well I went to my first restaurant. I was with your siblings and met your brother's friend Kazuo. That is about as much that has happened until I came here. Oh and I realized that for everything you did get the puppy doesn't have a collar or leash, don't you use those here or do they not exist," recalling that she has not actually seen a dog ever wear either.
"I planned on training him to just walk along with us but I wouldn't mind the idea of a collar. A leash would be a good idea just until he is trained," he thought it over. "We can go together with him to the pet store tomorrow. Don't forget to bring those pictures with too," he reminded her.
Looking at him a bit uncomfortably, "Gaara I do have money of my own you know."
"Yes, for you to use when I'm not there," his lips twitched.
"You're impossible," she sighed and slumped against him.
"I'm very possible, I am right here am I not," he teased her a little before pushing the food aside. "I hope you don't mind but I am full. I think I will save the rest for later since I doubt I will make it back for dinner tonight."
"Don't overdo it. Could I do anything to help you out," her eyes shimmering with hope, knowing he is pushed to do this because of her situation.
"Yes, just keep living," he kissed her head while he began on the paperwork, "and keep me company."
"I think I can do that," she gave a small yawn, a bit tired yet from their travels. Resting her eyes she somehow managed to doze off on his lap while he continued to work. Whoever had been outside was now gone and he felt satisfied that he is still getting this time with her even if did nod off. The trust she has in him makes him believe he will be able to make her happy.
She wasn't sure how much time went by but she is certain it has been several minutes if not an hour. He looked amused as she finally picked her head up and looked around. The stack on the right had diminished while the pile on the left had increased. It would seem she definitely took quite the nap or he is just a fast worker. "Sorry," she mumbled, trying to wake up a little more.
"If you're still tired you should take another nap. Unfortunately I can hear them coming," he glanced towards the door. "Thank you for coming and bringing me lunch," letting her get off his lap.
"Thank you for being so good to me," she shyly kissed him on the cheek, surprising him. The door opened and she left, waving farewell as she headed back to the house where she can spend time with the puppy and take another nap. He smiled fondly as he watched her go, touching his cheek before schooling his features just as the others came in to continue with what they were doing.
That night he tiredly walked in the door being greeted by the puppy trying to make his way down the stairs. Scooping him up he scratched him behind the ears as chin was attacked with a series of licks and a wet nose. Noting the quietness of the house and the lateness of the night he figured everyone must be asleep already. Going up the many stairs to his room he hung up his robe and hat after setting the puppy down to run off and do something. Using the restroom he noticed the doors to Kagome's room are both open so he chanced a peak to see her.
'She isn't here,' he grew a little worried and uncorked his gourd to find her. Making his way to the roof his quiet movements drew her eyes to him. "You're still awake," he stated.
"Are you just getting home," she asked.
"Yes but I am almost caught up with work," he answered, moving slowly to join her.
"I took that second nap and couldn't sleep," she explained her wakefulness.
"What are you doing up here," he asked, looking around to figure out what has her attention.
"Stargazing," she leaned back as he settled down next to her. "In the era I was born in we had so much pollution the stars were hard to see to this extent unless you went out to the remote wilderness. I became really good at astronomy to help guide me around in the past and I just enjoy them. They are so beautiful, I wonder if they ever discovered life out there."
"I wouldn't know I have never seen any text saying so. I know little about astronomy," he admitted.
"I could teach you what I know, it would take time but trust me, and it comes in handy." Her head eventually ended up nestled on his shoulder while she pointed to different constellations and told him stories about them that stemmed from ancient Greece and the Romans. Hearing her gentle voice in the quiet night slowly eased him from his weary day at the office.
Nodding off he woke and took a sweeping glance around as his tired mind registered that he never made it to bed. Feeling his left side with extra weight and warmth he found Kagome curled up into his side. Knowing they shouldn't spend the whole night out on the roof he carefully turned and pulled her into his arms as he attempted to stand. She barely stirred through it all as he walked down the steps to her room. Walking through the doorway he managed to get her in bed and pull the covers over her. Sweeping her bangs away from her eyes his lips brushed across her brow before he headed off to his own bed, the puppy dancing under his feet looking for his attention. "You certainly like attention," he scooped him up again, letting him snuggle in with him on the bed as he fell asleep petting the pup.