After leaving the castle, the couple made their way to the hotel where their group was staying. They found Ion having finished removing the curse from Guy, the latter shrugging on his shirt. As they slipped in, they were just in time to hear Guy reveal his past in Hod and why he hated the Fabre house. He and Luke made up, however, proving that good things can come from adversity.

"Emperor Peony will see you tomorrow morning," Jade informed them.

"Shouldn't we speak to him immediately?" Natalia asked in concern.

The Colonel shook his head. "I've already informed him of the details. He's likely meeting with the Council tonight about Malkuth's options."

Relieved, the princess nodded and Tear sighed tiredly.

"We should see about rooms, then. I'm exhausted."

Pulling out keys, Jade passed them to the group. "Already handled. You can freshen up and have a meal in the restaurant downstairs, or have it brought to your room."

Luke let his eyes drift over Kagome. "Looks like Kagome's already washed up."

"His Majesty wished to speak with her about a situation in her homeland," Jade told him in a tone indicating it wasn't any of their business.

That gave them pause, but it was Ion that recovered quickest.

"Is everything okay, Kagome?"

Giving a reassuring smile, she nodded. "Now it is. The Emperor is being very kind to me and my family." Her blue eyes met red. "As is Jade."

Pushing up his glasses, Jade tutted at her. "It isn't kindness. It's entirely self-serving, I assure you."

For some reason, that made her cheeks pink, but neither one elaborated on what they meant.

"Whatever," Luke sighed as his stomach growled. "I'm starving, so let's break up the meeting and get some food."

Agreeing, they shuffled out the door, each heading to the room they'd been assigned. Only Natalia, moving to close the curtains in her room, happen to see the Colonel and priestess leave the hotel. She watched them until they disappeared into the direction of the castle and then wrinkled her nose in frustration.

"Every single time," she scowled, vowing to uncover the exact relationship those two had-for her own sanity.

It was driving her up the wall and if she didn't know any better, she'd think the two did it on purpose.

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Once back in the castle, Jade led them again to his suite. This time, Kagome looked around, as she had been more focused on making a good impression on the Emperor last time than examining Jade's home. It was surprisingly comfortable-cozy even-save for the small room he'd turned into a lab. A large bed dominated the room while two overstuffed armchairs were situated in front of an elegant fireplace. In the corner, he had a dark, very polished desk with everything on its top in precise positions. Two doors were on either side of the bed, one leading to a wardrobe and the other leading to a large bathroom.

A knock on the door interrupted her exploring. With Jade still in the process of showering and changing, Kagome answered the request. A servant smiled politely at her, wheeling a cart full of what appeared to be trays of food.

"Oh! I didn't expect anyone to even know we were back, much less hungry," she said as she let him into the room.

"The Colonel appreciates efficiency," the servant replied, setting the food on the small table opposite the desk.

Arching a brow, Kagome glanced to Jade when he entered the room, hair still damp from his shower. "I'll bet," she muttered as the servant bowed and left swiftly. "You have the staff jumping to please you."

The corners of his eyes crinkled with humor. "You say that as if it's a bad thing. I set out some clean clothes on the counter for you to wear tonight. If you put the rest of your clothes in the chute, they'll be laundered and returned tomorrow morning."

Plucking up her pack, Kagome shot him a grateful look. "Thanks," she said, taking her turn in the bathroom.

The shower was heavenly, making her totally appreciate the perks of living in a palace. Jade was as comfortable camping as he was among luxury, but Kagome valued the brief times she actually had a roof over her head and regular baths. She never took them for granted and basked in them anytime an opportunity came her way.

Using one of Jade's too-plush towels to dry, Kagome grinned at the soft material and how well it soaked up water. It was only when she turned to the clothes he'd left her that she paused. He'd set out one of his undershirts and a pair of his boxers. Running her hand over the shirt, she bit her lip and felt a burst of anxiety. Her mind protested the fast pace her relationship with Jade had suddenly decided on. Ever since he'd kissed her, they'd been moving so quickly and hadn't really met that long ago.

Her soul and emotions batted that way of thinking aside. She knew Jade; knew his darkness and his light, his flaws and his strengths. The only thing that was truly scaring her was the physical aspect of their relationship. After their talk with the Emperor, she was confident that Jade was committed to staying with her once the mission was over.

Perhaps 'scared' wasn't the best word to describe her hesitance. Kagome was a virgin in every way-the kissing she'd done with Jade the extent of her experience. She was nervous about how much she wanted Jade. Her soul's continual theft over the years had left her unbothered by others seeing it. Her body was another matter. She'd never shared it with anyone. It was the only thing she had left that was truly hers and private.

Pulling Jade's shirt on, Kagome breathed in the smell of the fabric. Even clean, his clothes retained the scent of magic and winter. It calmed her, made her remember that Jade had never pressured her, never asked for more than she offered. What she'd seen in his soul let her know that his vow to take care of her would include every part of their relationship. Relaxing, she took a breath and exited the room.

Jade was standing beside his desk reading over a report. His shirt was stretched enticingly across his shoulders, his lounge pants slung low on his hips, and his glasses missing. When he heard her movements, he glanced up, an unreadable expression flickering in his eyes.

For his part, Jade was battling the impulse to skip dinner and simply carry Kagome to bed. She was soft and utterly feminine, swallowed by his clothes with a shy blush on her cheeks. He couldn't even see if she was wearing the boxers he'd leant her, his shirt was so large on her. Only her obvious uncertainty kept him from acting on his desire. Setting aside his report, he smiled and moved to pull out a chair for her.

"You are entirely too alluring, my flower," he told her as she settled in the offered chair.

Tucking her hair behind her ears, Kagome decided to focus on the food. "What are we having?"

Uncovering the dishes, Jade rattled off the name of each. Kagome found herself in love with the noodle dish, disappointed when she was so full she literally couldn't eat any more.

"I'm stuffed," she sighed, eying her plate wistfully. "That was delicious."

Chuckling, the Colonel finished his tea, pleased that she'd eaten her fill. One side of her shirt had slid down, exposing her pale shoulder. To distract himself from the sight, Jade brought up the subject that had been weighing on him.

"You told the Emperor you wished to relocate to Malkuth after this situation is resolved," he began, watching as her eyes went curious and slightly apprehensive.

"Yes."

"In Grand Chokmah?"

Studying him, she let her fingers grip the edge of her shirt, the only outward sign that she was nervous. "Well, you said you'd put me where you wanted me."

Red eyes sparked with that unfamiliar emotion again, but he grinned and tipped his head to her in acknowledgement. "Though I'm often deployed, Grand Chokmah is my home." Turning his chair until he was facing her, knees touching, he took her hands. "Now that I've spent my days and nights with you, I find myself displeased at the thought of you being far from my side."

Tension fleeing at his admittance, Kagome gathered her courage and slid into his lap. Jade blinked at the move, but accepted her readily, wrapping his arms around her as she tucked her knees against his hip.

"Grand Chokmah also has the well, so it would be easier for me to see my family," she pointed out. "There were some really cute apartments nearby. Once the Emperor fixes me a past, I could get one of those."

Pulling back, Jade arched a brow at her excited expression. "You don't seriously think that-having gotten you into my bed-I'll ever let you leave it, do you?"

Stilling, Kagome licked her lips and hesitantly met his eyes. "I try not to assume," she whispered.

Dark thoughts sparked in his mind at the experiences that had taught her not to assume that a man who swore he'd take care of her would want her to live with him. "Well, in this case, do," he murmured. "If these quarters are not to your liking, we'll simply move."

Eyes wide, she shook her head, her hands curling into his shirt. "No! No, I love these."

"Good. Then, we'll move you as soon as this situation is handled," he stated with finality, making her brighten.

Grinning, she stretched up to kiss him. Jade returned it wholeheartedly, his fingers tracing the skin of her exposed shoulder and his tongue twining with hers. Goose bumps raised on her arms at his light touch and a shiver raced down her spine when he nipped the underside of her jaw.

"Commitment, food, and romance…are you trying to seduce me, Colonel?" she asked breathlessly as she gripped the fabric over his shoulders.

Kissing her jaw, he shifted her until her back was to his chest, her legs on the outside of his knees. Kagome felt butterflies erupt in her stomach as he slid his hands under her shirt. His touch was like fire on her skin, making her nerves strain with their awareness of him.

The heat of his breath washed over her as he brought his mouth to her ear. "I'll only give you that last part of me when your soul begs for mine," he whispered, his voice edging into a darker, more sensual register than she'd ever heard it.

At her shift, he brought his hands up, cupping her breasts without a barrier between them. Kagome's breaths quickened and her hands curled into fists as she tried to bat down her sudden need to ground herself back against him. Yet, his words were what nearly drove her wild, the heat in them almost beyond her ability to fathom.

"When your breasts grow heavy for my hands, your nipples harden in want of my mouth and the mention of my name brings you to the edge of pleasure." He told her, letting his thumbs circle her breasts until they were finally rubbing her in a way that had her head falling back to rest on his shoulder.

Nuzzling her temple, Jade continued, his left hand leaving her breast to glide over her stomach until it was resting just inside her boxers. "I'll take you when every surge of your blood feels as though its destination is me; when every beat of your heart is a call for me; when the ache grinding at your core reaches a fever pitch you think will swallow you unless I give you satisfaction."

She felt out of control and needy as he let the tips of his fingers press just inside her boxers. The action wrenched a frustrated moan from her as he pinched her nipple and sucked on her earlobe.

"I'll carve my name in every fiber of your being, my lotus, and once you're balanced on that razor's blade edge-stretched taunt with desperation and frantic, clawing desire-then and only then will I take care of that need."

"Jade, please," she begged, her fear from earlier falling away at the fire he'd ignited in her. She wanted him-every part of him-and his words only made her that much more desperate. He wouldn't take her until she had no more doubts about them-about him.

Standing with her, Jade lay her on the bed before crawling up her body like a large, predatory cat. His red eyes were dilated with arousal, his expression a mix of tenderness and possession. Hovering over her on all fours, he brought his mouth within a hair's breadth of hers.

"What do you want, little flower?"

He wasn't touching her now, giving her a moment's respite to actually think. But Kagome had known the moment he'd told her she had a right to assume things about their relationship that she wouldn't ever want someone the way she did him. She'd never find someone else so perfectly suited to her and she didn't want to go back to the cold loneliness she'd known before he'd given her his warmth.

"Just you," she told him, her eyes shining as she swallowed heavily. "Just you, Jade, always."

Triumph lit his eyes as he kissed her, something untamed and addicting in it. Kagome submitted eagerly, her hands finding their way under his shirt. She wanted to know every line and hollow on his body-wanted to follow her fingers with her mouth and tongue to see if he tasted this delicious everywhere.

Pulling away, Jade shook his head. "First thing tomorrow, go to your mother and speak to her."

For a moment, Kagome didn't understand a word he'd said. When she did, she blinked in bewilderment.

"What?"

He kissed her eyes and then the corner of her mouth. "Ask her if she wants to stay there or relocate to Auldrant."

Holding his sides, she frowned at him. "You don't believe me." Before he could reply, she thumped him right between his eyes. "Idiot," she growled. "I'm not going to lie to you to get you to have sex with me."

At the genuine hurt in her eyes, Jade cupped her cheeks and didn't budge when she pushed at him. "That's not what I meant, Kagome," he assured her. "I don't know that I could let you disappear from my entire world after I have every part of you. It will test my temper now to let you go where I might not be able to follow."

Softening at the actual unease she could see the thought brought him, Kagome nodded. "I'll come back."

Leaning down, Jade kissed her gently, making her lose the rest of what she'd been meaning to say. His fingers twined strangely with hers and when he released her, she felt a foreign weight on her finger. Bringing up her hand, she gasped at seeing the jade ring from Keterburg perched on her left ring finger.

"Jade?" she asked in disbelief.

Shifting to her side, Jade smirked and kissed her fingers. "I had it commissioned. The artist was going to ship it, but he happens to be a Master Fonic Metalcrafter. He was able to finish it within a few hours." His red gaze danced with amusement. "He also happened to owe me a very large favor."

Tears filled her eyes as the meaning of the ring hit her. "But, that night—"

He shrugged. "I wanted to see if you'd like it. It's very unique."

Laughing wetly, Kagome reverently traced the details of the ring with her right hand. "A flower. A ring that reminds me of you in the shape of something that reminds you of me."

At her questioning eyes, he smiled, wiping her tears away. "Yes. I know myself very well and I know what I like. The night after you unlocked my ability to control the Seventh Fonon I was aware that I would grow to care about you greatly. I knew that I wouldn't want to let you go soon after; that my feelings would eventually grow into something beyond friendship."

Holding her left hand, he looked at the ring and then arched a brow at her. "So, was your prediction for this ring correct?"

Kagome's heart turned over as she remembered what she'd told the artist. This gift was more than the extravagance of the combs. This was a promise-the physical representation of the vow he'd given her what felt like forever ago. Some part of her balked at so much being spent on her, but she pushed that thought away. Her chest was tight with the overwhelming emotions he'd ignited-with the love she had for him. In so little time, he'd managed to turn her world upside down and become her other half.

Squeezing his hand, she smiled radiantly at him, letting her apprehension from earlier. "She feels just as much for him," she hiccoughed, "so, yes, it was."

Brushing back her hair, Jade grinned and swooped down to give her perhaps the most tender kiss of her life. Rubbing his hand down her side to her thigh, he paused at the realization that she was wearing only his shirt and boxers. She hadn't put on panties.

What the hell had he done to himself?

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Before dawn, Jade woke with a foreboding feeling twisting in his gut. Today he'd have to let Kagome return to her world without him. It would be the first time they'd been apart since they'd met months ago and he hadn't been exaggerating when he'd told her that the separation would sorely test him. She was his and he dearly loathed relinquishing that which belonged to him.

Arms tightening around her sleeping form, the Colonel thought on the night before. He wanted Kagome obsessed with him; as completely consumed by him as he was by her. He wasn't certain he'd remain whole if the well didn't let her return. She steadied him-filled a gaping void in him he'd tried to ignore or seal without success. It was directly connected to the dark chasm that felt if he was broken without her, then the rest of Auldrant deserved to be, too. That darkness had driven him near totally in his youth-to the destruction of more lives than he cared to consider. If Kagome didn't return, he was afraid that chasm would consume his world until he found a way back to her.

So, he'd promised her in a way he knew meant the most to her. With his ring on her finger, Jade knew Kagome wouldn't rest until she returned to him. She hadn't said the words, but he didn't need them to know that she'd given him her heart. Though he didn't believe it'd been a fair trade, he'd relinquished his in return and if those entities in the well were foolish enough to come between that, he'd destroy them.

Looking at her sleeping form, Jade smiled at seeing her huddled into him. Moving his legs, he paused when he realized that the boxers she'd worn to bed had slid off her sometime in her sleep. It wasn't a surprise, really, as they were much too big for her. Pushing his hands under her shirt to rest on her bare stomach, he wondered if he could get away with what he was considering. Deciding that-with her leaving his world soon-he couldn't not touch her, he risked it.

Mouth on her neck, Jade allowed his hands to explore her enthralling breasts. That drew a breathy moan from her as she pushed her chest more firmly into his hands, her backside wiggling in a way that made him stiffen. Smiling, he moved a leg between hers, opening her a bit to his questing fingers. He knew she was a virgin, that she'd never let anyone touch her like this, and the knowledge made him want her even more. There had been a few incidents in her past where she'd nearly been assaulted and Jade wanted to erase those memories. He wanted to show her pleasure-to give her nothing but pleasure with him. As he'd told her, he wanted his name carved in every corner of her mind.

"Jade?" her sleepy moan made him smirk before he dragged his tongue up her neck, his fingers between her legs finally pressing lightly on her clitoris.

"Oh, God," she gasped, waking fully as he rolled her nipple with his other hand.

"Kagome," he murmured in her ear, catching some of her wetness and rubbing it along the petals of her flower, "good morning."

Surprising him, she rolled to face him in one swift move and then claimed his mouth in a scorching kiss. Growling, he pulled her hard against him, letting her feel the evidence of his desire for her. In response, she rolled her hips, the only thing keeping him from taking her was his pants. Jade tore his mouth away from her when she pushed a small hand between them to cup him through those pants.

"Kagome," he gritted out, meeting her arousal-darkened stormy eyes.

"I want to see you come apart," she admitted breathlessly, pressing kisses to his throat. "Please, Jade?"

Pulling back, he studied her, finding her determined and yet apparently embarrassed to have asked that of him. As if he'd deny her anything. As if her request didn't make him almost painfully aroused.

Shifting, he shucked his pants and took her hand. "Like this," he whispered, feeling the fonons between them erupt with her excitement and joy as he showed her how to touch him.

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Kagome was panting almost as much as Jade was as they lay entwined after she'd finally gotten her wish. Seeing him in the throes of passion made her ache for him, the wetness between her legs coating her thighs. He was beautiful and the knowledge that she'd made him look like that; brought him so much pleasure he'd coated her hand and stomach with it, sparked a desperate need to do it again.

Her inexperience didn't seem to bother him, but she'd tried her best to make up for it by paying rapt attention to every nuance of his expression. She'd never seen a naked man before, much less touched one like that and she was surprised to find that-instead of being nervous-she was wondering if she could bring him as much pleasure using her mouth.

"I don't know how you'll fit," she commented, tracing the fine trail of blonde hair on his lower abdomen. God, he was built, Kagome thought as she pushed his shirt up a bit more to continue her exploration over his defined stomach.

Chuckling incredulously, Jade lowered sated eyes to her. "You're small, but not that small, my flower."

Tugging at the hem of his top, she grinned impishly up at him. "You still have your shirt on. I get your pants off and this stays on. I get your shirt off and your pants stay on. We're not very coordinated, are we?"

"Easily remedied," he replied, pulling off his sleep tee and moving to clean up the mess he'd left on her tummy.

Tossing the shirt aside when he was finished, he glanced to her pleased eyes. "I could say the same for you, you know."

Blinking, Kagome realized that he hadn't ever pulled off her shirt. In fact, he hadn't ever removed any of her clothes. Touching her side, she winced.

"Mistress Centipede left a pretty nasty scar," she admitted.

One brow arched as he snorted. "If you take off your shirt, my attention will most likely be focused a tad higher than your side, Kagome. However, if it bothers you so much, wait until you're ready. I can assure you that I find you lovely, scars and all."

Stroking his cheek, Kagome smiled, her heart full at his blunt words. He didn't beat around the bush and she appreciated that. She never had to wonder-not truly-where she stood with him. From the beginning, he'd made no bones about his intentions and it had only been her own fear that had kept her from seeing it.

"I was just telling you so that it doesn't surprise you," she admitted. "It hasn't bothered me for a long time. In the Feudal Era, scars became a reminder that you were strong enough to survive."

Before he could reply, she pulled off her shirt, her face rosy but only slightly apprehensive. Rolling to lay between her legs, Jade let their skin connect fully for the first time. Both of them sucked in a sharp breath at the sensation. Closing his eyes, Jade rested his forehead on her shoulder and reveled in having her so bared to him.

"Did you enjoy watching me come apart for you?" he whispered in her ear, prompting her to shift at the huskiness of his voice.

"Yes," Kagome admitted, her hands following the muscles in his back and her knees hugging his sides.

"Is that what you're going to be thinking of when we leave and I'm in uniform again?" he continued, his tongue tracing the shell of her ear.

Groaning at the image of him in his rigid uniform, Kagome nodded. She thought she'd very much like to see him come apart like that while in uniform, but didn't quite have the courage to admit that. Jade seemed to know what she was thinking, however, because when he pulled back to meet her eyes, he smirked.

"Are you getting wet thinking of it, my flower?" he purred, cupping her breasts. "Are you thinking about unbuttoning my pants and sucking me off on the bridge? On your knees in front of me, my cock down your throat, and me begging you for release? Or on the deck? Your hands down my pants, jerking me off while the brats are none the wiser?"

"Now I am," she moaned, giving a soft cry when he dragged his tongue across her breasts.

Instinctively, she pressed up and was rewarded by his lips closing around her nipple. "Jade," she cried, her arousal from before once more being stroked into a flame. Every gentle suck he gave seemed to be directly connected to her core, making her clench frustratingly on air. "Please!"

Switching breasts, he looked at her, a dark, tempting thing in his weighted stare. Burying her hands in his hair, Kagome lifted her hips and let out a mewl of pleasure when she connected with his once-more hardening member. Her eyes rolled back when Jade nipped the underside of her breast.

"Naughty," he chastised. "You've had your fun this morning."

Leaning up, Kagome sucked on his neck, wondering if his nipples were as sensitive as hers. When he pulled back to look at her, he grunted when she decided to find out. His pecs were hard with muscles, his nipples a pale pink that tightened into dusty peaks under her tongue.

Snatching her up, Jade claimed her mouth in a hard, dominating kiss that left her moaning for him. Her moans turned into a sharp cry when he reached down and slid one long digit into the place throbbing for him.

"As I said," Jade growled, his face tight with what she could only categorize as hunger, "you've had your fun. It's my turn, little flower. Open for me."

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As Jade had predicted, her clothes had been laundered and returned to their room. It was probably for the best the servant had interrupted when she did, otherwise, Jade wasn't sure he'd have been able to keep from taking Kagome. Giving her first orgasm to her had been enough to make him toss aside his ridiculous promise of waiting until after she'd spoken to her mother. She'd been utterly magnificent, yielding to him and opening fully to his demands. He'd almost come again just from the desire in her eyes when she'd hit flashpoint. He could spend all day exploring the places on her body that turned her into a wild thing, clawing at him for completion.

"Are those my things?" she asked, the sheets clutched to her chest.

"Yes," he replied over his shoulder before directing the servant to bring breakfast.

The servant had been wide-eyed, but was smart enough to keep her mouth shut at having seen the meticulous Colonel answer the door, completely disheveled and only wearing low-riding lounge pants. The rumors circulating about him returning with a woman and meeting with the Emperor were true, then. Blushing with a smile, the servant wondered what kind of woman could so completely undo the usually icy, totally reserved man. Hopefully, she could finagle it so that she could bring their breakfast and get a glimpse of the female.

In the room, Kagome held out her hands for the bundle of clothes, surprised when Jade didn't immediately return them. Instead, he ducked into the wardrobe and emerged with a different set of clothes.

"I bought you some things in Keterburg," he told her, passing over the clothes. "Gilda was quite amenable to passing on her knowledge of ladies' fashion."

Brows up, Kagome unfolded the material, finding that he'd given her traveling clothes distinctive to the Malkuth women. He'd also provided her with new underwear in the style she preferred and socks to go with the new boots he set at the foot of the bed. Blinking back tears, Kagome held the tunic top to her heart and met his eyes.

"You're going to spoil me," she protested weakly.

His expression was gentle and understanding as he smiled. "Of course I am. I'm going to marry you, Kagome Higurashi, and spend the rest of our lives giving you things you don't ask for."

Sobbing a laugh, she flung herself at him, holding him as tightly as she could. "Thank you," she told him when she could speak, the air around her filling with Sixth and Seventh Fonons in her happiness.

It was the first time either of them had said it so plainly and Kagome's heart soared at the reminder. They were going to be married. Jade loved her enough to bind himself to her forever. Even if he never said it, she knew it in her soul.

"You're welcome, my flower," he replied softly. "Now, best get dressed before you give more than myself a show."

Blushing, Kagome gathered what he'd given her and quickly scurried into the bathroom to take care of her morning ablutions. Staring at the ring on her hand, she squealed silently to herself, doing a giddy dance in front of the large mirror. She was so happy she thought she might burst with it.

Jade helped her braid her hair back after he finished dressing as well, slipping in her combs to finish the look.

"I never would have thought you'd help someone with their hair," she teased him.

Lips tipping up, Jade pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Just you and I'm afraid if you want something more elaborate than this, you're on your own as a braid is the extent of my abilities."

Her reply was aborted by a knock. Moving to answer it, Jade saw the same servant from earlier with a tray of food. Stepping aside, he allowed her to enter and arched a brow as the woman noticeably stared at Kagome. Kagome was busy pulling on her new boots and so didn't notice, but Jade had to suppress his amusement at the servant's curiosity.

The girl was able, he'd give her that, because she managed to set up the breakfast table without taking her eyes off of the oblivious priestess. When Kagome finished, she looked over and brightened at the sight of the food.

"That looks fantastic!" she grinned, her face transforming into something radiant with her happiness.

Flustered, the servant bobbed a curtsey, obviously taken aback by Kagome's enthusiasm and genuine warmth. " 'S no trouble, ma'am."

Jade's eyes danced as Kagome thanked the girl anyways, her ring flashing in the light of the sunrise. The servant's face slackened in disbelief, her eyes wide as she stammered out something and scurried out the door. Kagome's brows drew together in confusion.

"Wow, she must be super shy."

Laughing, Jade pulled out a chair for her and then settled in his own. "Kagome, she was getting the scoop on you. That's the same girl that dropped off your clothes earlier."

Pausing in filling her plate, the priestess puzzled that a minute before blushing a bright red. "Oh. Well. That's embarrassing."

"That's castle life," he shrugged. "The servants will gossip, but they're loyal to the Emperor. Their talk doesn't go passed the gates."

Looking at her ring, Kagome let it catch the light, mesmerized when it refracted it into hundreds of dancing colors. "I could wear this on a chain, I guess."

Covering her hand, Jade smiled reassuringly. "As you like, but don't do it on my account."

Lacing their fingers, Kagome relaxed and kissed his cheek.

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Peony was grinning like an idiot when he met Jade and Kagome in his garden. Once they were close enough, he wiggled his fingers in a silent demand for her hand. Blushing, she gave it to him, letting him examine her engagement ring.

"Subtle, Jade," he laughed, releasing her. "Gorgeous, unique and quite clearly a statement of claim. Somehow I'm impressed and yet not at all surprised."

"I'm pleased it pleases you, Your Majesty," Jade drawled, making Kagome smile.

Peony rolled his eyes to Kagome. "You sure you want to be stuck with that the rest of your life? He's gotten worse with age."

Giggling, she slid her hand into Jade's and met his eyes happily. "I can't imagine anything better," she replied sincerely, making Peony's expression soften and Jade squeeze her fingers.

"Then, I insist you let me perform the ceremony." He winked. "I can do that, you know. Haven't yet, so you get to pop my cherry."

Sputtering at his outrageous way of offering, Kagome turned a bright red. Jade only laughed and inclined his head.

"About the only one left, I believe," he stated with an arched brow.

Peony grinned unrepentantly. "Ah, I saved it just for you two."

Kagome swallowed her shock and reached over to touch Peony's elbow. "Thank you, Your Majesty. It would mean a lot to us."

Delighted, Peony patted her hand. "You're welcome. Now, show me how this thing works."

Taking a breath, Kagome released Jade and placed her fingers on the well. Her powers flared and a moment later, a blue light flowed from inside the structure. Glancing over her shoulder, she met her fiancé's eyes, finding his face tight at what was about to happen.

Turning around, she cupped his cheeks and stood on tiptoe to kiss him ardently. "I'll be back," she swore. "As soon as I can, I promise."

His fingers flexed on her waist before he nodded and kissed her temple. "I know."

Smiling, she hugged him and then jumped into the well, disappearing with a flash of light. Peony was in awe of it, having believed their story, but seeing it really drove home all that his friend had been through. Looking at his friend, he found Jade stone-still, staring at the well as if he might either obliterate it or dive head long after Kagome.

"She's coming back," Peony offered quietly.

Stiffening, Jade crossed his arms and nodded. "I'm not certain the well will let me through again and I don't trust the entities within it. If she's gone," he paused and met the Emperor's eyes.

Peony blinked at the abyss that was swirling to life in Jade's expression. The darkness he hadn't seen in years was gaping open, threatening to cut a path of destruction Peony wasn't certain he could stop again.

"If she's gone, I don't trust myself," he admitted.

Frowning, the Emperor whacked him in his head. "Don't be stupid. From what you've told me, she'd kick your ass if you went all necromancer on us. With the way the Sixth and Seventh Fonons react to her, that is one woman I'd seriously avoid pissing off."

The chasm closed, Jade taking a breath and visibly pulling on his impassive mask. Smirking weakly, the Colonel nodded.

"She has the ability to be far more destructive than even I," he agreed. "It is to my advantage, however, that I am the ruthless one between us."

Relaxing, Peony shrugged. "I'm happy for you, Jade," he told him sincerely. "Kagome is everything I'd hoped you'd find and more."

Smirk pulling into a real smile, Jade met his eyes. "You're upset that I met her first, aren't you?"

"Hell, yeah. She's smoking, man, and powerful. Not to mention that her blushes make me hate you just a bit."

Letting his worries fade, Jade chuckled; grateful that Peony would always see to the heart of the matter and didn't pull any punches-sometimes literally-when dealing with his darkness. In a way, he and Kagome were alike, but where Peony kept him on track, Kagome made him want to be better.

Peony raised a brow at him. "We won't see you two for months after the wedding, will we?"

A wicked grin tugged at his mouth. "As you say, Your Majesty."

"Bastard," Peony growled, entertained in spite of himself.

To which Jade only smiled.

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Mrs. Higurashi sighed in relief when she saw a familiar figure emerge from the well house. Quickly turning off the oven eye, she wiped her hands and hurried to embrace her daughter. Kagome grinned when she caught sight of her, looking healthier and happier than her mother could remember ever seeing her. The strange clothes only added to the effect.

"Kagome! I'm so glad you're back!" she exclaimed, hugging her tightly.

"Mama, I have so much to tell you and not a lot of time," she rushed to say, pulling back. "We haven't finished yet, but we made it to the place where the well is, so Jade got me up early enough that I could sneak back here and see you."

At the mention of the man, Mrs. Higurashi felt her relief turn to apprehension. Kagome fairly glowed when speaking of him.

"Well, then, hurry inside and tell me everything."

Complying, Kagome settled across from her mother, her hands under the table as she tried to find the words to explain. "Mama, I…Jade asked me to marry him," she admitted. "The Emperor has agreed to grant me citizenship in Malkuth and will help me fix my records so that I have a past there. Jade promised," she licked her lips and met her Mother's surprised eyes seriously. "Jade promised to get you established, too, if-if you want."

Setting down the pot of tea she'd lifted, Mrs. Higurashi absorbed that information. "I suppose I know what your answer was."

Blushing, Kagome held out her hand, showing off the exquisite ring she wore. Her mother sucked in a breath, drawing the same conclusions Kagome had the first time she'd seen the piece. Taking her hand, she held it between hers and sorted through her emotions. Her daughter had been gone for months this time, but…

"This is very sudden, dear."

And Kagome didn't deny it, letting Mrs. Higurashi know that this wasn't a passing fancy.

"I know, but, Mama, Jade put my soul back together for me and I healed the wounds on his. We've seen the best and worst of each other and during his time with me and the time I've been in his world, we've built on that knowledge. This isn't like what I felt for Inuyasha," she whispered on a shuddering breath. "Jade is…Jade is the other part of me."

Dropping her eyes, Mrs. Higurashi studied the obviously new clothes her daughter wore and the sparkling hair combs. She'd filled out to a healthy weight under Jade's care. It was plain to see that Gramps had been correct: the Colonel was taking care of her in a way she hadn't let anyone else. In a way no one else could.

"If he's what you want, then you have my blessing," she assured her daughter. "I knew there was something between you when I realized he not only protected you, he also made you smile."

Tears spilled down the younger woman's cheeks as she laughed and nodded. "He does. His sense of humor is sometimes morbid and he hasn't the faintest care for what he says most of the time, but I love him, Mama."

Smiling, Mrs. Higurashi moved to kneel on the cushion beside her daughter and wrapped an arm around her. "That's all I've ever wanted for you and Sōta: someone to love who loves you in return. Now, tell me about this business of him moving us to another planet."

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Luke glanced around at the group that had gathered in the hotel lobby. "Where are Jade and Kagome?"

Natalia lifted a shoulder. "They returned to the palace last night. We'll probably meet up with them there."

Agreeing, they set off for their meeting with the Emperor. True to Natalia's prediction, Jade was waiting for them as they entered the castle.

"It's about time," he told them after waving off a soldier he'd been speaking with.

Tear blushed at the near-reprimand, but frowned when she saw that Jade was alone. "Where is Kagome?"

"She had family business to attend. She'll return shortly," he replied, his words just faintly sharper than necessary, making the group wonder if the two had a falling out. "In the meantime, I believe you have an audience with the Emperor."

Ion smiled. "Yes, thank you for arranging it, Jade."

The Colonel met his eyes and smiled, not replying as he led them to the throne room. The Emperor sat on his throne, his masculine beauty only enhanced by the artistry of the chair and the room. Anise, Natalia, and Tear all sighed in appreciation as they approached the ruler.

"Ah, you must be the ones dragging my Jade all over the place and keeping him away from home," the man said cheerfully as they came up to him.

Luke blinked, bewildered, and glanced between the Emperor and Colonel. "What?"

Peony nodded, waving his hand at Jade. "And then he goes and gets hit with a fon slot seal. This clod can be a real pain, huh?"

Taken aback, Luke waved his hands in protest. "N-not at all, Your Majesty!"

Jade sighed in long-suffering. "Your Majesty, must you confuse our guests?"

Chuckling, Peony relented. "Fine, fine, let's get down to business. Jade and Kagome have basically explained everything to me."

Relieved to be on a different topic, Luke jumped in. "As things stand now, there is a danger that St. Binah could fall into the Qlipoth."

Peony rubbed his chin. "So it seems. In fact, I've already been informed that the land around St. Binah has begun sagging."

Stepping forward, Natalia entered the conversation. "Then we must evacuate the residents!"

"I'd love to, but a lot of the Council members are reluctant," the Emperor told them seriously.

Hand on her heart, Natalia turned wide eyes on him. "Why? Their countrymen are in danger…"

"Because of the military threat from Kimlasca," Jade told her with a pointed look.

One of the Council members-Nordheim-nodded. "The Kingdom of Kimlasca-Lanvaldear issued a proclamation."

Councilman Sesmann stepped up to read from a scroll. "'We hereby denounce Malkuth's destruction of Akzeriuth in order to bring about the deaths of Princess Natalia and the tertiary heir to the throne, Luke fon Fabre. In the name of Lorelei and Yulia, we shall initiate immediate sanctions.'"

Tear's fists clenched. "For all practical purposes, that's a declaration of war!"

Blue eyes desperately looked to Peony as Natalia shook her head. "My father is mistaken!"

Nordheim frowned. "Or is he, Princess Natalia? We believe that Kimlasca may have destroyed Akzeriuth to create an excuse for war."

The princess gritted her teeth. "My country would never commit such a despicable act!"

Luke agreed, "Yeah! And besides…I was the one who…" he trailed off as his fire was doused with shame.

Jade waved his hand at him. "Luke, we all know what happened. Natalia, calm yourself. It doesn't matter now whether Kimlasca destroyed Akzeriuth to start a war or not."

Peony tipped his head in point. "Yes, the problem is that the Council believes that the sink of St. Binah is Kimlasca's work."

Realization hit Tear. "So, they think that any forces sent to rescue the citizens will be wiped out along with the city."

"Exactly," the Emperor replied. "Until we heard Jade's story, we'd thought Kimlasca had developed a fontech weapon capable of creating a hyperresonance."

Swallowing, Luke admitted, "At the very least, Kimlasca was not responsible for Akzeriuth. And, even if it were, St. Binah is still going to fall. How can not rescuing them possibly be better?!" Remembering whom he was addressing, the replica quickly added, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to be rude, Your Majesty. If it's impossible to send troops, then please let us go."

Perking up, Natalia stood beside Luke. "Allow me to make the same request. If something happens, at least Malkuth forces won't be caught in it."

Blonde brows rose as Peony straightened. "I'm surprised. Why are royalty like yourselves so intent on helping an enemy country?"

"We're not enemies!" Natalia insisted. "Our citizens travel between our countries as if it were perfectly normal. And it's my duty as one born into the royal family to aid those in need."

Peony's eyes slid to Luke. "And you, Master Luke?"

He stiffened. "I am a criminal to Malkuth. I am to blame for what's happening. I want to do anything I can. I want to save everyone!"

Leaning back, the Emperor looked to his Councilmen. "Well, you heard them. What do you think, Sesemann? Your dear apprentice, Jade, also says we can trust these guys regarding St. Binah."

Sesemann sighed. "Your Majesty, it's not polite to refer to them as 'these guys'."

Jade smirked. "If I may make a suggestion, perhaps Luke and my unit could evacuate St. Binah, while General Nordheim contains the northward moving Kimlascan army."

Sesemann eyed him. "Are you giving a General orders?" Smiling, he shrugged at Jade's innocent look. "I suppose it will work. We'll try to gain the Council's approval."

Peony grinned then. "Thanks, man, I owe you one."

"Then, you won't abandon St. Binah?" Luke asked hopefully.

Stepping down, Peony put his hands on his hips. "Of course not. Though you all are the ones who're going to be doing the brunt of the work. They're my dearest people. Please help us save them."

Straightening in determination, Luke jerked a nod. "I'll do everything in my power."

Natalia smiled. "As will I."

Even Tear agreed. Turning, Peony began walking out of the room.

"I have to summon the Council now. I'll let you handle the rest, Jade. Let me know when Kagome returns."

Turning to the 'brat pack', Jade sighed. "Evacuating an entire city is not an easy task, you know."

Luke rubbed the back of his neck. "What should we do, exactly?"

Motioning for them to follow him, Jade led them out of the throne room. "As His Majesty said, the military won't enter the city for fear of it becoming another Akzeriuth. We'll enter St. Binah first and get help from former Field Marshal McGovern."

He was interrupted by quick footsteps coming from the other end of the hall and a delighted cry of, "Jade!"

Pausing, he turned just in time to catch Kagome as she launched herself at him, giggling happily. "She said she'd think about it! They're really going to seriously consider it and let me know the next time I go back!"

Smiling, he set her back on her feet and righted his coat. "I'm happy for you, Kagome. I know how much they've missed you."

Bewildered, the others watched the interaction, trying to understand what was going on.

"Everything went well with your family business?" Tear asked, smiling at Kagome's obvious happiness.

The priestess bounced on her toes as she gushed, "Yes!" Sobering, she met Jade's eyes. "Better than I was anticipating, actually. She's a sharp cookie, my mama. I told you she knows everything that happens in her house…even things the involved don't realize."

That made Jade laugh for some reason and shake his head. "You'll have to fill us in later. We're on our way to evacuate St. Binah," he replied before sending a servant off to inform the Emperor of Kagome's return.

Anise, however, had spotted the glinting jewelry on Kagome's finger. Snatching the older female's appendage, she gaped at the expensive ring.

"Whoa, Kagome! Where'd you get this?"

The priestess surprised them by blushing a bright red. "It was a surprise. You don't have time for all of that, though; let's get a move on before any more of the Outer Lands sink."

The girls exchanged looks, silently vowing to get the rest of the story out of her later. She hadn't had the ring before she'd taken care of family business and Jade had been with them the whole time. Natalia frowned in disappointment as she realized Kagome's family must have arranged a betrothal for her. It made sense, with the new clothes she was wearing. The princess just didn't understand why Jade seemed so pleased for the priestess. Maybe there was only a deep friendship between the two. What a let-down.

Ion, on the other hand, was doing his best not to gape at Jade and Kagome. He knew that ring-had seen it at the art fair in Keterburg-and had heard the story behind it. The implication was clear: Jade had commissioned the ring for Kagome and had found a way to see if she would like it before proposing. His appreciation for the Colonel's intelligence amplified at the move. And, they were being deliberately ambiguous about their relationship. It made him grin when he figured it out, and he decided to not spoil their fun. Glancing at the younger females, he found them with identical crestfallen features.

Stifling his amusement, the Fon Master caught up with the older two, drawing their attention. "Congratulations," he whispered, just low enough that the others wouldn't hear him.

Kagome beamed at him while Jade smirked, understanding that the boy was willing to play along as they tormented the others.

"You're sweet, Ion," Kagome declared, bending to kiss his cheek.

The fonons dancing around her swept through him as she did, restoring his health and bringing a rosy hue to face. Embarrassed at the blatant affection, but pleased nonetheless, he smiled and dropped back to walk beside Anise.

"What was that about?" The guardian asked, her brows together. She'd have been jealous if it had been anyone but Kagome that had kissed Ion.

Ion shrugged. "Kagome restored my health. Her control over the Seventh Fonon is uncanny."

Seeing that he did look better, Anise smiled. "Well, I'm glad." She glanced to Guy shrewdly. "Maybe you should let her kiss you better, too, Guy."

Jerking, Guy waved his hands, as if to ward off Kagome. For her part, Kagome only snorted at him.

"Suck it up, you big baby. I don't chase men, thank you."

Jade chuckled. "You don't have to, they chase you, Kagome."

Wrinkling her nose, she huffed at him. "You make it sound like I've got guys beating down my door."

"I seem to recall a fight breaking out over you shortly after I met you," he drawled. "Swords were drawn, punches thrown…incredibly dull insults flung."

"Oh my God," she growled, whacking his arm, "you purposely provoked Koga into being even more of an irritant towards Inuyasha who didn't need any help hating on him!"

Jade blinked, as if not understanding why she was upset. "I said one thing to the wolf."

"And then sat back to enjoy the fireworks. It's a wonder Sesshōmaru didn't kill us all before we could destroy Naraku. Well, he sort of liked you," she admitted. "Kill the rest of us, then."

"I've no doubt that in another life, the Lord of the West would have been one of the contenders for your hand," Jade stated, surprising her.

The group listened as the two bantered, eager to hear more of their past.

Kagome shifted nervously. "Er, no," she protested. "He's way too stiff, and those claws? Not retractable, you know. Little bit of a passion killer-like, literally."

Laughing, Jade turned amused eyes to her. "I note that your fiancé is lacking in those. How did you settle for an ordinary human after being around all those demons for so long?"

Blue eyes widened incredulously as she stared at him. "You're crazy if you think anything about him is ordinary."

"Wait, wait, wait!" Natalia cried as they passed into Theor forest. "Jade, you know Kagome's fiancé?"

He looked at her with raised brows. "Of course."

"Is that the business you had to take care of with your family?" Tear asked.

Kagome smiled. "A bit. My family is considering relocating to Malkuth. It'll be a huge change, but I really hope they do, since that's where I'll be living."

"And, you don't have a problem with that?" Anise demanded to the Colonel.

"Why would I? I get along fine with her family and her fiancé. I've known him longer than I've known her, actually."

Ion had to cover his mouth to keep from laughing as the couple wound up the girls. Luke and Guy were staring in shock at Jade.

"Man, your fiancé must be something else for Jade to like him," Luke muttered to Kagome.

"Your family, too," Guy agreed.

Face bright, Kagome nodded, looping her arm through Jade's. "Yep. I think so. He has very good taste, you know. In fact, Jade introduced me to my fiancé."

That made the corners of Jade's mouth tip up. "Ah, I believe you're right. How time flies when you're saving the world."

He didn't have to look to know that the three females behind him were absolutely distraught with this turn of events. The way Kagome's fonons swirled delightfully around him told him she was as entertained by the whole thing as he was.

"Congratulations, Kagome," Natalia muttered, trying to muster a smile.

It took everything Kagome had not to cackle at the picture the despondent princess made.


AN: So, Jade skirted the 'no lemons' rule a bit. Whoops. That's about as graphic as we get, however. He has another scene or two with vague wording that I'm sure you guys will read between the lines enough to understand. Haha-sometimes it's hotter if everything isn't spelled out for you. (Of course, it could be that I'm really a prude at heart and have issues writing theses scenes. Er...)

Next chapter: some rather unwelcome surprises and we go completely off-grid as far as the script is concerned. Hold onto your hats, kiddies!