Intervention Thy name is Bakusen'O!

by lunamist

Determined to undue the damage Sesshomaru has wrought, Bakusen'O takes a dying Inuyasha into his protection until the Lord of the West comes to understand his brother's worth. Centuries later, Inuyasha has been released into his brother's care. Soon Sesshomaru comes to understand, a sibling relationship is not what his Youkai has in mind. Ah, but how to woo a battered Hanyou?

10. Chapter 10

Wow, I got some very lovely reviews for the last chapter. I'm glad most of you liked Kouga and Inuyasha's interactions and that it cleared up some lingering questions out there. Just a couple of answers to some reviews: I'm sorry, but most likely I won't get much into Kadira's background, mostly because this story has turned out to be very, very, very long and I didn't find a place to fit it in. I've also had a couple of questions regarding the "future time" and if there'll be any fancy differences from our time . . . not really. I'm doing something odd here and being optimistic about the future (odd for me) and basically view it as a shinier and more crowded version of our own time.

Disclaimers are as before.

As an aside . . . I love me some Olympic beach volleyball! I can't imagine the stamina it would take to do any Olympic sport, let alone try and jump, run, etc . . . in the sand. Just watching them do those kinds of things makes my body sore.

Okay, enough chit-chat . . . on with Chapter 10, it's another long one . . .

Lord Sesshomaru's meeting with the heads of the other remaining Youkai households had gone no different than any of the last few centuries. Irritated beyond what he'd ever fully admit, the DaiYoukai glided through the halls of his home - not a perfect strand of silver hair out of place, not a hint of expression across his immaculate face. Easily bypassing his own personal quarters, Sesshomaru stood before the two large Youkai still guarding his little brother's room, waiting for their report.

"Food was brought up as you requested, my Lord. The Wolf King took the tray and we've not heard anything since."

Taking all this in, Sesshomaru merely stated, "And none other has approached this room."

"No one. Not even Lady Kadira."

Nodding his head in approval, Sesshomaru was pleased. Not that he'd expected Lady Kadira to disobey his order to refrain from interrupting the wolf's visit, but more by the fact that there had been little disturbance from either an outside source or from the mangy wolf himself. Kouga was almost as unpredictable as his own brother and infinitely more irritating. With nothing further to say and feeling absolutely no compunction to knock on a door within his own home, the Lord of the Western Lands easily glided into his younger brother's room.

Upon entering the room, the first thing that struck the DaiYoukai was the scent. No longer was the stench of fear and anxiety inhaled with every breath, but instead there was a sense of peace along with, dare he say it, a little happiness. Unfortunately, the second thing Lord Sesshomaru noticed was a certain fleabag lying far too close to the one he had claimed as his own. With a swiftness born of his own breeding and power, Sesshomaru swept down upon the lounging wolf, grabbing the Youkai's neck within a poisonously clawed hand. "Explain this, Wolf."

Rapidly blinking blue eyes opened wide, finding themselves staring into the seriously pissed face of the Lord of all Asia. Only now registering the strangling pain in his neck, Kouga choked out, "S-Sess-shomaru? W-what . . . "

"That, Wolf, is what this Sesshomaru would like to know. Why are you lying in the same bed as that which is mine?"

"F-fuckin' hell. I - " coughing, Kouga tried again, "I-I just fell a-asleep, that's all. W-we were just t-talkin'."

Finally allowing his eyes to drift from the wolf in his clutches, Sesshomaru's gaze wondered over to his peacefully sleeping brother, finally noting that while Inuyasha's body was lying under the covers, Kouga's was thankfully on top. And, in no way, shape, or form, were the two touching. Calming slightly, the DaiYoukai took a deep intake of breath, scenting no form of arousal within the room, Sesshomaru finally released his hold.

"Sweet divinity," Kouga hissed, all the while ineffectively rubbing the redness on his throat. "I was tired and the bed seemed a hell of a lot more comfortable than the floor."

"In the future, the floor would be a wiser choice." Dismissing the wolf from his thoughts, Sesshomaru moved to the other side of the bed, his golden gaze taking in the Hanyou. Easily noting the steady rhythm of Inuyasha's heart and breathing, he took another sniff of the air, pleased that his first impressions of the situation were correct and that his little brother was better off than when he'd left him. Satisfied, Sesshomaru's cold eyes once again zeroed in on Kouga. "Did I not make myself clear?"

Rolling his eyes, Kouga moved from the bed, despite his annoyance, the wolf Youkai was careful not to disturb his sleeping friend. "I ain't got no design's on your mutt of a brother. God's above, I can barely handle the mate I've got, let alone another one."

The slightest snarl was the only indication the DaiYoukai gave over his displeasure of the wolf using the word "mate" in any type of association with Inuyasha. Walking towards the edge of the room, Sesshomaru never once considered asking Kouga to follow him, nor did he doubt the wolf would do anything but. Reaching the bank of windows, Sesshomaru questioned, "Your time with the Hanyou was successful?"

Giving a fang filled yawn, Kouga scratched the back of his head, completely unfazed by his own rumpled appearance. "I think so. We talked for a while."

"Detail your conversation."

"What? As in you wanna know every damn thing we discussed?"

"Of course."

"Not a chance in hell. You want me to be a friend to the mutt, then let me be a friend."

"I do not see how relating your conversations would be in violation of that."

Gapping, Kouga had to wonder if the great Lord of the West even knew the definition of the word, "friend". "You have got to be shittin' me. Tellin' somebody else, especially somebody Inuyasha doesn't trust, what we discussed is the ultimate betrayal of friendship. God's in heaven, have you never had a friend before?" Given the look on Sesshomaru's face, Kouga had to think the answer was probably no.

"I am a DaiYoukai."

"Yeah, well, I'm the King of all the Wolf Tribes and I still got friends." Jerking his head to the side, Kouga motioned towards the bed as he added, "And one of them is lyin' nearly helpless just over there." With glinting blue eyes, Kouga pointed a clawed finger at Sesshomaru chest. "And I happen to be lookin' at the bastard responsible for it. I swear, Sesshomaru, if I'd have known what you were doin' to the mutt back then - "

"You would have what? Interceded? Fought me along side the Hanyou. If you had, then the Wolf Tribe would have long ago been in need of a new leader, and that is assuming this Sesshomaru had left any of your kind alive to need such."

Growling low, Kouga felt his skin bristle at the threat on his clan. "You know, that's exactly what Inuyasha said. Seems the mutt knew exactly what kind of psychotic jackass you were."

"You should be thanking Inuyasha for not involving you or your clan in what transpired then. At the time, your interference would have seemed more of a nuisance. I would not have hesitated removing you from my path."

Scoffing, Kouga crossed his arms. "And what a path that was . . . huntin' your own kin - "

"There are many things in the world this Sesshomaru must atone for, but in every case, the only one whom I must do this to is the Hanyou. I owe no explanation for my actions to the likes of you." Ignoring the fuming wolf before him, Sesshomaru pressed his earlier question, "So, am I to assume by your tirade that you and Inuyasha spoke of the months leading up to his meeting Bakusen'O."

Exasperated, Kouga knew he'd get no remorse from the DaiYoukai, that's just how the bastard was wired. It was just plain pointless to even try. Besides, at the end of the day, it wasn't the wolf tribe Sesshomaru owed the mother of all apologies to. Blowing out a deep breath, Kouga figured it really wasn't much of a betrayal of confidence to let the DaiYoukai know a little of what he'd spoken with Inuyasha about. "Yeah, he summed up what happened to him after the last time we saw each other."

Nodding once, Sesshomaru answered, "I expected as much."

Running a hand through his disheveled hair, Kouga continued. "I'm not gonna tell you everything, but just to let you know, he did ask about Kagome."

Instantly, Sesshomaru felt his Youkai flare with both irritation and something else . . . something akin to jealousy. Forcing the growl from his throat, the DaiYoukai asked, "The miko who freed him from the sacred tree?"

"The one and the same. And, don't go gettin' all bitchy about it either. Kagome was his friend. She managed to see and accept the mutt for who he was long before any of the rest of us." Noting the continued irritation Sesshomaru's Youkai spewed, Kouga quickly gave up on trying to get the DaiYoukai to see his point. "Anyway, I told him she passed away about seven years ago. He was sad, but I think he took the news pretty well. Truthfully, the mutt just seemed glad Kagome had found some happiness."

Turning slightly from the wolf, Sesshomaru's gaze once again wondered over to the sleeping Hanyou. Selfishly, he was glad the miko was already dead. It was one less complication in a sea of nothing but when it came to his little brother. "His reaction is understandable."

Kouga didn't know if he'd really phrase it that way or not, but then again, precious little came out of the Lord of the West's mouth the way he'd consider saying it. "Yeah, well, anyway . . . just thought it would be good for you to know. Other than that, we mostly talked about Ayame and my pups along with some other trash talk." Rubbing his chin, Kouga's lips formed into a smirk. "Even got the mutt's hackles up a couple of times. The spirit's still there, just buried below a lot of pain and distrust." Smirk gone, Kouga gave a heavy sigh. "I don't envy the task ahead of you, Sesshomaru. Especially given what I think you want from your brother."

Lifting an ever elegant silver eyebrow, Sesshomaru asked, "And what is it that you believe this Sesshomaru wants?"

"-Feh, I ain't as naive as the Hanyou. Maybe Inuyasha can't recognize the aura of possessiveness you're puttin' off, but I do. Not to mention the hint of arousal I scent every time you look in his direction." Smiling, Kouga couldn't help the mirthful chuckle bubbling up from his chest at the look of annoyance etched across the Lord of the West's perfect face. "Don't tell me you're gonna try and deny it?"

Having no such intentions, Sesshomaru merely questioned, "Should I expect interference from you?" No matter the wolf's response, he would not let Kouga sabotage his efforts. In the end, Inuyasha would be his in the way he wished. But, should the Wolf King prove troublesome . . .

Shrugging his shoulder's Kouga answered truthfully, "I got no plans on it. As much as I hate to say it, despite your efforts to the contrary, there are still a lot of full-blooded Youkai out there who'll see Inuyasha as just another example of dilutin' the bloodline. Five hundred years may of passed, but prejudice is prejudice and for some, it just don't change. He'd be all kinds of shades of pissed to hear me say it, but I'll sleep better at night knowin' he's got you to back him up. That said, if you ever do manage to get him to agree to be your mate, you sure as hell better be a good one. I get that you wanna keep him safe, and I can't tell you how glad I am of that, but bein' somebody's mate is a lot more than just keepin' 'em physically safe."

Staring into the darkened windowpane, Sesshomaru took in Kouga's words and in a rare show of emotion, he answered, "This Sesshomaru shall take your words into consideration, Wolf."

Stunned, Kouga could only stare, completely at a loss as to how to respond. Mouth still gapping, the Wolf King barely heard the DaiYoukai's next words, and even when he did, Kouga had trouble switching the gears in his brain and could only stutter, "W-what was that?"

Freshly annoyed, Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed. The Lord of the West hated repeating himself. "I was speaking of the meeting just held."

"Oh. Sorry, I guess I was just tryin' to process that you actually paid attention to my advice, I - "

"If such actions on my part turn you into such a useless creature, then you can count on it being a one time occurrence."

"God's your moods switch faster than Ayame's when she's in heat." Feeling the air around his body thicken with Sesshomaru's suppressed rage, Kouga continued on, "Anyway, I take it nothin' good came of the meetin'."

Almost instantly, the pressure in the room lightened to one of annoyance instead of immanent death. "Do you truly expect this Sesshomaru to answer such a useless question?"

Shaking his head, Kouga felt a whole new weight descend upon his shoulders. "No, not really. I guess I was just hopin' for a change."

"That would be a foolish hope indeed."

"Yeah, I know. So, you gonna tell me what happened now?" Earlier, Kouga had wondered if Sesshomaru had ever had a friend, and although he really didn't think their relationship garnered such a grandiose title, as unofficial second in command, the Wolf King probably knew more than he'd ever wanted regarding the intricacies of the upper Youkai world, including all the infighting and power plays. Human dominance over the world had done little to curb Youkai appetite, merely driving it underground and further into the shadows. A game that unfortunately proved even more dangerous than in the days of the Feudal Era.

"We shall need to watch Lord Tullic more closely."

Scrunching his eyes down, Kouga was pretty sure a rare wrinkle was showing on his brow. "Tullic? You really think he's a threat?"

"In his own way. The scorpion Youkai believes he is far more clever than he truly is. It is a poor mistake to make, perhaps even larger than overestimating ones own power."

Nodding his head, Kouga found all he could do was agree. Boasting about your own strength was commonplace in Youkai society, even when that boasting was full of over inflation. But, when it came right down to it, all Youkai understood that even if they banded together, nobody could take the Lord of all Asia down in a fight of sheer physical might. Knowing this, those with loftier notions and aspirations of power choose other routes, and almost always those routes included deception and lies. Schemes within schemes with one goal in mind - to change the power structure of the Youkai world in their favor. What most Youkai seemed too dense to realize was that Lord Sesshomaru wasn't only their equal in battle, but on the field of intelligence, there was no being more capable than the DaiYoukai. Add in Sesshomaru's ruthless tactics and you got one of the most lethal creatures to ever walk the planet.

Sneering, Sesshomaru took Kouga's nod and silence for what it was. "Tullic is a fool and will eventually be dealt with as such, however," looking towards his sleeping Hanyou, Sesshomaru's sneer faded into what some might call one of concern, "Inuyasha's awakening has complicated things."

Following the DaiYoukai's gaze, Kouga wondered, "You think he'll try something on the mutt?"

"Not since Rin's passing has this Sesshomaru ever had something of such value to protect. It . . . he, is a point of vulnerability, a weakness to those whom know of the Hanyou's importance. In his current condition, Inuyasha is incapable of protecting himself. He would make an easy target."

"Somehow, I doubt "easy" is the right word. Anybody wantin' to get at the mutt's gotta go through both you and me, and that ain't no easy task. Add that old wench, Kadira into the mix and they're just as likely to get their good for nothin' Youkai ass purified as anything else." As if to emphasize the point, Kouga found his hand rubbing the spot Kadira had touched yesterday, just a small amount of her power had stung like a son of a bitch.

Feeling a swell of something foreign, and slightly disturbing, Sesshomaru wondered at the odd sensation easing throughout his body. It wasn't a completely unpleasant thing, just different and the DaiYoukai thought that perhaps he would allow the Wolf King to breath the air upon this planet for the foreseeable future. Although he was loath to admit it, the Lord of the West found it somehow reassuring to know that he was not alone in his regard for the Hanyou's well being. Feeling no need to comment on the wolf's opinions, Sesshomaru simply stated, "Tullic's activities are already being monitored, but I see no reason to invite further strife into the Hanyou's life. For that reason, until both Inuyasha's physical and mental well being have been restored, he shall remain here and kept in secret as much as possible."

"That'll probably work as long as the mutt feels like shit, but as soon as he's got a little more life in him, you'll be hard pressed keepin' him inside. Inuyasha's lived in the woods nearly all his life. That's his home more than any buildin' ever could be."

"Be that as it may, we both know there is precious woodland area left in the world. Regardless of how he feels, living in such a manner is no longer practical for the Hanyou. If he wishes for air, then I shall make the rooftop gardens available."

"Think the barrier's strong enough to keep pryin' eyes out?"

"I shall have the foxes look into strengthening it."

"You want me to call Shippo in for that? We both know he's got the juice for it."

Staring ahead, Sesshomaru weighed his options. What Kouga said was true, for Shippo had become an extremely gifted and powerful fox Youkai with the ability to warp reality into whatever image the fox required. Given the area the garden's encompassed, one of such capabilities would most likely be needed. Still, having Shippo this close . . . the fox was sure to scent the Hanyou sooner or later and right now, Sesshomaru thought the fewer knowing about his brother's sudden return, the better. Speaking of which . . . "Lord Kouga, my driver, Sang-di - "

"Yeah, what about him?"

"He drove Inuyasha and myself home from Bakusen'Os forest. I do not believe he is aware of the Hanyou's relationship to myself, but it would be a simple issue for someone else to put the pieces together should my driver's lips become too loose." Briefly, Sesshomaru thought about the phoenix Youkai, Altiera, who'd healed his little brother. But phoenix Youkai were reclusive and exceedingly difficult to find. Being such private creatures, they rarely if ever associated with other Youkai and considering none but Lady Altiera and Sang-di knew of the Hanyou's release, there would be little to no reason for anyone to even seek out the demoness, let alone question her regarding Inuyasha.

Shaking his head, Kouga answered, "Sang-di's pretty damn loyal. I can't see him sellin' you out like that."

"That may be so, but Inuyasha's safety is too important to make assumptions. Most likely the breach would occur without Sang-di even knowing he had released such important information." Furrowing his brown, Sesshomaru detested the idea of letting anyone else know just how irreplaceable Inuyasha was, for the Hanyou's own safety, but in this case, ignorance on the part of his driver could do more damage than good.

Thinking along the same lines, Kouga offered, "You could always have a forgettin' spell woven for him. You know, replace his memories."

"Given the right circumstances and pressures, such spells are easily broken," Sesshomaru answered, "the more I consider the situation, the more I feel it may be prudent to have my driver both know and understand the situation fully." Mentally, Sesshomaru began wondering if Sang-di had a family or someone important enough to him that could be used as leverage to ensure the driver's cooperation. The DaiYoukai made another mental note to speak with Jaken soon regarding the matter. After all, that was one of the sole reason's the Lord of the West kept the little irritation around for that was the imps strength. Jaken had an uncanny ability to retain such knowledge on almost every Youkai and human he met. Sesshomaru had once wondered if it was because the toad simply had a rather unhealthy desire for such intimate knowledge or if it was due to some other odd fascination Jaken had with other's lives. The thought had been a passing one with no more time dedicated to the idea than it merited. Jaken's reason's held little importance to the Lord of the West, only his abilities and usefulness.

Unable to read the expression on Sesshomaru's face, but disliking the quiet his body had taken, Kouga asked, "Why do ya think Sang-di would be any help with the mutt?"

"By your own admission, keeping Inuyasha here in this building shall become increasingly difficult. It would be advantageous to have a trustworthy outlet for his excursions."

Eyes wide in mocking surprise, Kouga replied, "Bullshit, you don't trust anybody, not even me."

"True, but there are other ways to ensure loyalty."

Shivering at the icy and deadly serious tone Sesshomaru's voice had taken, Kouga felt as if a small fist had been tightened around his heart. "Sang-di's a good Youkai. Don't go makin' threats to somebody who hasn't earned it."

Narrowing his eyes, Sesshomaru kept his face forward, only allowing golden slits flecked in red to swivel towards the wolf beside him. "It is not your place to tell this Sesshomaru what to do, especially when it comes to the safety and protection of the Hanyou. I will use whatever means necessary to ensure his welfare." Finally turning his head, Sesshomaru's voice only grew colder. "Do not think for a second that any is immune to my wrath when it comes to my little brother. I would show no hesitation."

Snorting, Kouga tried blowing off the DaiYoukai's anger. "Yeah, well, you didn't have to threaten me with nothin'."

Blinking once, Sesshomaru had to wonder at Kouga's statement. Did the wolf really believe he would not use Ayame and his prodigy as leverage? Or, perhaps more disturbing, had the Wolf King never given a thought to the fact that the Lord of the West would not hesitate inflicting bodily harm to those the wolf loved in order to get what he wanted; what he needed. Taking a hidden sniff of the air, Sesshomaru noted no lie, no hint at all that Kouga was ill at ease or that he'd said anything he truly did not believe. Inwardly snorting his own disbelief, Sesshomaru wondered how exactly Kouga had risen to the King of all the Wolf Tribes with such naivety still intact. True, the DaiYoukai found the wolf more useful than others, but that only made Kouga more vulnerable, not less.

Seeing no useful purpose in disturbing the Wolf Kings delusions, Sesshomaru simply ignored Kouga's last response and answered, "I shall speak with Sang-di on the matter."

Giving another yawn, Kouga rudely scratched at the fabric covering his ass. "Hate to break up this little chat, but as you probably figured out, I'm pretty much beat. Since you don't seem too keen on me stretchin' out on the bed next to your brother, I should probably be headin' back to my own room to crash."

"A wise choice. This Sesshomaru shall stay and watch over Inuyasha."

With a lecherous grin and obscene wag of his tail, Kouga replied, "Yeah, sure, you're just gonna watch over the Hanyou." Cackling softly, Kouga disregarded the icy stare being fired into his heart. "Just as long as lookin' is all you're after. The mutt might be as weak as a new born babe, but I don't doubt for a second he'd slice your arm off again if you go tryin' anything more than that."

"I believe," Sesshomaru started, his voice frigid with disdain, "that you have more than worn out your welcome within these walls."

Suppressing the shiver that voice elicited, Kouga merely turned and began heading for the door, casting a last look at the still sleeping Hanyou buried beneath mounds of blankets. Shaking his head, he could only wish his friend well and that somehow in the end, Inuyasha would find it in his heart to forgive his older brother and accept what Sesshomaru so clearly wanted. If not, Kouga not only feared for the Hanyou, but for all the Youkai of Asia. The InuDaiYoukai was a bitch to deal with normally, let alone if he were sporting a broken heart.

::::::::::

Waking up, Inuyasha was surprised to see sunlight blaring through his room. Blinking his amber eyes, the brightness surrounding him was at first irritating, but soon enough changed into a soothing balm. He'd always enjoyed lounging in the sun, finding some rock or sturdy tree branch and simply lying back to absorb the warmth of the sun's rays. Although never truly at ease, it was one of the closest times he ever came to finding a certain amount of contentment in the world.

Pushing his way out of the mountain of blankets layered upon his form, Inuyasha lowly grumbled something about stupid DaiYoukai's and his bastard of a brother trying to suffocate him, before he finally managed getting his upper body free. Once sitting up, he was more than pleased to find that the effort he'd just expended hadn't left him panting and gritting his teeth against the pain of movement. To be sure, it was still a trying task, but he was getting better. And that, more than any sunny day, had him grinning.

"What is that has you so pleased this morning?"

Looking up, Inuyasha easily spotted Kadira as she came shuffling away from the bathroom door. Good mood sufficiently doused, the Hanyou responded, "It ain't none of your business."

"My, my, aren't we the grump. Given the look on your face a few moments ago, I'd hoped you'd be a little more pleasant today."

Unsure how to respond, Inuyasha only turned his head, staring out towards the bank of windows off to the side, a move not lost upon Kadira.

"If you feel up to it, you are more than welcome to walk around the room a bit."

"-Keh, as if I need your permission to move my ass outta this bed."

Shrugging her shoulders, Kadira only sat in a nearby chair, pulling out a large book with pictures of plants splashed across the cover. "I care not what you do, as long as you do not cause yourself further injury. I only thought lying in that bed these past few days must be getting fairly boring and that you might enjoy stretching your legs."

Crossing his arms, Inuyasha stubbornly remained where he was and only the gentle hum of Kadira's light singing echoed throughout the room. Without wanting to, he found his eyes wondering back towards the inviting glass panes and with a grunt of, "Oh, to hell with it," he found his feet planted on the plush carpet below. With a push of his hands, soon Inuyasha was standing and was relieved to find that doing so didn't bring about a fresh wave of dizziness. Taking a prodding step forward, he limped his way towards the bright windowpanes, all the while ignorant of Kadira's guarded, yet watchful gaze.

With a final step, Inuyasha's hand came out, his palm resting on the glass before him as he stared out, amber eyes wide, at the vision before him. Towering above all other buildings, the room he was in seemed to be floating within the air itself. Taking a deep breath, the Hanyou's forehead pressed against the windowpane as he stared both down and around at the structures creating the magnificent city he now found himself within. "Gods above - "

"Do you like the view, little brother?"

Turning his head to the side, Inuyasha felt his hair whip around his face, briefly blurring his vision as he turned to stare at his brother. A brother he hadn't heard enter his room. "Don't you ever fuckin' knock?"

"I see little point in knocking on any door, let alone one within my own premise."

Scoffing, Inuyasha felt his ears droop slightly. "No, you probably don't."

With an acknowledging nod in Kadira's direction, Sesshomaru moved to stand next to his little brother, dismissing the stiffening of the Hanyou's body at his approach. "I believe I asked you a question earlier."

Reluctantly, Inuyasha's eyes left the form of his brother, hating how close the bastard seemed to be standing to him. Still, the view outside was more than mesmerizing and he knew that if he wasn't careful, he could easily wind up forgetting about the DaiYoukai all together. Hushed and silent with an almost reverent tone to his voice, Inuyasha finally answered, "Yeah, it's pretty amazin'." Wondering back to an earlier thought, he asked, "Are we in a floatin' castle?"

Had he been looking, Inuyasha might have seen the momentary flash of surprise cross Sesshomaru's face. Surprise mixed with a distinctly sour mood as the Hanyou's question had inadvertently reminded the DaiYoukai of his mother's palace floating among the clouds. A palace he had no desire to visit any time soon. "No. In this era, the structure we are currently in is not considered a castle, but a skyscraper. The building itself is not bespelled, at least, not in that fashion. It is simply the modern way of construction."

With both palms of his hands now flat against the glass, Inuyasha swiveled his head down, pressing the top of his forehead further into the window as he tried looking as straight down as possible. Given the constraints of the building, seeing what was directly below him was impossible, and the action gave the Hanyou a slight case of vertigo. "How in the hell do they keep this thing upright? Why doesn't it collapse upon itself?"

Surprised, yet secretly delighted at Inuyasha's open questioning, Sesshomaru moved ever closer to his brother, coming to stand directly behind the him as he placed his hands slightly above and to the side of the Hanyou's own upon the glass. And, when he answered, it was directly into a curiously twitching puppydog ear. "Truly, the engineering abilities of this era are extraordinary. I do not know how it is done, only that it is possible."

Feeling trapped, Inuyasha inwardly cursed. This is exactly what he'd been warning himself about earlier. He'd allowed himself to become distracted by what he saw outside and in doing so, he'd totally missed his sadistic brother's increasing proximity. Now, the bastard had him pinned to the glass like a bug. Breathing in deeply, Inuyasha tried steadying his shaky nerves, but the action had been a mistake, for all he got for his effort was a big breath of Sesshomaru scented Youkai. Trembling slightly now, he tried getting a grip upon his increasing fear.

Close enough that he could feel the slight quaking of his little brother, Sesshomaru could also easily scent the rising fear. Moving to quash such a reaction, the DaiYoukai changed one of his hands from the glass, easing his fingers into Inuyasha's thick mane of hair and rubbing the base of a furry ear. Not moving away, Sesshomaru waited patiently as the Hanyou's body began relaxing as he leaned ever heavier into the window before them. Once the smell of fear had dissipated, Sesshomaru began speaking again. "This Sesshomaru will not hurt you again, little brother. Please do not be so alarmed when I am close."

Fighting against the lethargy Sesshomaru's actions were forcing his body into, Inuyasha couldn't completely push away the soothing calm oozing through his soul. "I . . . how can you ask that of me?"

"I know it is difficult. I have long ago lost your trust."

"-Keh, as if you ever had it."

"Once, many years ago, you wanted to trust me. When you were but a pup."

"That was a lifetime ago, Sesshomaru, and you more than proved unworthy of it. Besides, in a way, I do trust you." Finally pulling himself out of his haze, Inuyasha turned his body, his back against the glass as his angry eyes stared up into his brother's. "I trust you to do whatever you can to hurt me."

Frowning, Sesshomaru pushed himself away from the window, placing a modicum of distance between the two Inu's. Allowing a sigh past his lips, the DaiYoukai could only frown. "There is much this Sesshomaru has to make up for."

Laughing bitterly, Inuyasha answered, "Understatement of the fuckin' century, Sesshomaru."

"As powerful as I may be, I can not change the past, Inuyasha. I can only hope to overcome it."

Crossing his arms, the Hanyou turned his head, only leaving his narrowed eyes on his brother. "Can't say that won't be a big fuckin' waste of time."

Despite the situation, Sesshomaru found his mouth wanting to quirk into a smile. Did the Hanyou not know how delectable he looked when pouting? Quelling such thoughts, he only moved his hands forward, allowing his fingers to tangle in a thick section of silvery-white hair. "Then it is fortunate that I have much time to waste."

Batting at the hand now seemingly hopelessly entrenched within his hair, Inuyasha could only scoff, "Are you tryin' to rip my hair out?"

With an ease Inuyasha still found amazing, Sesshomaru removed his fingers while allowing his eyes to run over the Hanyou's unruly head of hair. "Since you are obviously feeling better, further grooming is in order."

"Further what?" Inuyasha asked, mouth gaping.

"Kadira, the Hanyou's hair is in need of attention. After breakfast and a fresh bath, you will work to tame this abomination Inuyasha insists on calling hair."

"What the fu - "

Ignoring the rising obscenities, along with Inuyasha's obvious offense, Kadira only mumbled, "A chore I'm sure will take up most of the morning."

"Hey, wait just a damn min - "

"A true statement, but none the less, the task has been put off too long," Sesshomaru added, also ignoring the red faced Hanyou before him, hands now clenched and shaking. "Inuyasha, since you are awake, I shall have food sent up directly." Moving away from his little brother, the DaiYoukai gracefully walked towards the edge of the bed, picking up the dress jacket he'd laid there on his way in. "No doubt it will please you to know that I have business to attend to and will be gone from you most of the day. I would ask that you behave yourself, but no matter how large those ears of yours are, you seem beset with the affliction of deafness where your behavior is concerned, little brother."

Mouth still hanging open, Inuyasha was beyond words. In one breath, Sesshomaru spoke of forgiveness and in the next he was insulting him. God's be damned, what a prick, Inuyasha thought, but could not get the words past his mouth. Instead, the Hanyou watched as his bastard of a brother calmly slid his overcoat in place while walking towards the door, a passing, "Call me if I am needed," were the Ice Prince's last words before leaving for the day.

Sitting calmly in her chair, Kadira stared unblinking at the pages before her, pretending to be fully engrossed in what she was reading, but all the while, the old miko was waiting for the dormant volcano standing next to the windows to erupt. She didn't need to wait long . . .

"What the fuckin' hell! Who does that jackass think he is? That critical, sadistic, good for nothin' Youkai ass!"

Taking in a deep breath, Kadira debated on whether or not she should try and interrupt the Hanyou's tirade. "Inuyasha - "

"For fuck's sake, where does Mr. Perfect get off criticizin' my hair of all things? It ain't like I've been livin' in the lap of luxury with fancy bottles of shampoo lyin' around."

Laying her book aside, Kadira's bones popped and groaned as she stood; shuffling her way towards the irate Hanyou she'd been left in charge of. All the while, the miko cursed her Lord's choice of wording. All Lord Sesshomaru had done was manage to rile her charge up, making her job all the more difficult. "Inuyasha," Kadira tried again, "no one expects you to have - " Stopping mid sentence, Kadira's brown eyes widened at the look on the Hanyou's face. From his words, she'd expected anger, and that was there, but beyond that was a deep layer of hurt. That, she hadn't expected. Pulling her brows down in consideration, the miko started again, "Inuyasha - "

Amber eyes flashing, Inuyasha wasn't looking at the old human before him, instead his eyes were fixed upon the door to his room. The door his fucking brother had just left through. "What does he think? That I had time to just sit around and comb my hair all day?" Laughing bitterly, Inuyasha's eyes finally darted to Kadira. "When? When would I have done that? Maybe I could have worked in a few swipes with my non-existent combs between the moments that centipede and bat Youkai attacked. Or, maybe, I could have done it while I was standin' there with my lovin' brother's fist shoved through my guts. You know, when he just let it set there while he pumped that green acidic shit into me." Throwing his head back, Inuyasha's laugh turned into a suppressed sob. "Oh, that's right, that wouldn't of worked because of all the fuckin' blood soaked into my hair. Somehow I just don't think a comb coulda' gotten through all that sticky stuff." Pulling his lips back into a snarl, Inuyasha tried covering his pain with anger, "What a total and complete jackass."

Unsure what to do, Kadira moved forwards, feeling an overwhelming need to wrap the Hanyou into her arms. But she'd no more than barely touched the tips of her fingers to Inuyasha's arm than he pulled back, almost stumbling to the floor in his efforts to avoid her as he yelled, "Don't fuckin' touch me!"

Pulling her hand back, Kadira let her arms fall to her sides, trying to appear as harmless as possible. "Inuyasha, I meant no harm."

Breathing hard, Inuyasha's eyes were wide with uncertainty and then shame. He'd been so wrapped up in his own pain and anger, that he'd lashed out at someone whom meant to do nothing more than comfort him. Fisting his hands, the Hanyou barely registered the tips of his reforming claws as he sheepishly answered, "Just . . . just don't touch me, okay. I don't like people touchin' me."

With a nod of her head, Kadira felt her heart fill with a cold weight. "Now that you're stronger, I see no need for me to do so. I apologize for upsetting you, that was not my wish."

Sighing, Inuyasha ran a hand through his bangs, only to get his own fingers hopelessly tangled within his messy head of hair. After a few moments of struggle, he managed to extract his appendages. With great effort, Inuyasha pushed down his irritation. "'-S okay. I know you didn't mean nothin' by it." Blowing out a deep breath, he looked towards the bathroom. "Will it take long for the food to get here?"

"Most likely a few more minutes."

"Okay." Starting towards the bathroom door, Inuyasha stated, "I'll take a quick bath then and wash my hair before it gets here."

Hesitantly, Kadira asked, "Would you like me to show you the best type of conditioner for your hair?" When slitted amber eyes turned her way, the miko hurried to add, "It will make the combing later much easier."

"-Keh, whatever." was her only answer as the Hanyou passed through the doorway and began filling the tub with warm water. Hurrying her pace, Kadira grabbed fresh clothing and laid it out upon the bathroom counter, after which, she moved to the linen closet and brought out fresh towels as well as an expensive brand of both shampoo and conditioner. Handing them over to the Hanyou, Kadira offered, "Leave the conditioner in for at least five minutes," before quickly making her way out the door, leaving a grumpy and flustered InuHanyou in her wake.

For both Kadira and Inuyasha, the rest of the morning and afternoon passed in relative silence. After the bath, the miko had watched the Hanyou eat his breakfast. Not long after, Kadira was halfway surprised to find Inuyasha sitting on the floor in front of her chair as she tried, as gently as possible, to groom his long silvery-white locks. Although not as shiny as his brother's, the Hanyou's hair was a marvel unto itself and by the time she was finished looked nothing short of a work of art. Allowing the soft, silky strands to pass through her gnarled fingers, Kadira could only stare in wonder. "You are quite the beauty, do you know that, Inuyasha."

From where she was sitting, Kadira could only catch the down turn of the Hanyou's head, but the slight pink blush coloring Inuyasha's puppydog ears was hard to miss. Smiling, the miko knew she'd just embarrassed the boy before her. When his hand came up to bat her own away, Kadira knew she was dead on.

"I think you got your Inu's mixed up, lady. Sesshomaru's the looker of this family."

Only mildly surprised the Hanyou couldn't see his own appeal, Kadira could only smile. "Not to these old lady's eyes. Nor, do I think to any with eyes with which to see you. With out a doubt, Inuyasha, you are most beautiful."

"-Keh, that just proves what I knew all along."

"Oh, and what is that?"

"That you are not only old as the hills, but blind as a bat as well."

Laughing, Kadira brought a hand up with the intention of patting the Hanyou's head, but pulled it back when she thought of Inuyasha's earlier wishes. If he didn't want to be touched, then she would do her best to abide. Still, it would be a difficult request to hold to. But for now, she would do her best, and so instead, Kadira moved her hands to her lap while leaning back into her chair. "You are all done. Are you tired?"

Shaking his head, Inuyasha crawled forward and away from the miko before using the edge of the bed to assist him in standing up. "Naw, not really." And that was partially true. Although his body was tired, he found his mind was anything but. In truth, Inuyasha was beginning to get a little cabin fever. Now that he didn't feel so very weak and helpless, he felt trapped within his gilded cage and wondered if Sesshomaru meant to keep him locked away in this room for the rest of his life. Well, if that was the case, then the bastard better keep him drugged down because as soon as Inuyasha regained his full strength, bustin' outta this joint was gonna be on the very top of his priority list.

Sighing, Kadira looked up at the Hanyou. She was glad the pup was feeling better, but this fact created a whole host of other problems. Glancing around the room, she could find nothing to keep Inuyasha's attention. This being a room only created for theoretical use, Lord Sesshomaru had equipped it with the finest of necessities but failed to put anything else into it. Not even a bookshelf. With a look to the side, Kadira noticed her most current volume on herbal remedies and with a deep sigh, decided that was about all the entertainment she could offer. "I'm sorry, but I don't have much in the way of entertainment. If you'd like, you're always welcome to read through my book."

Inuyasha's flickering eyes along with his down cast face was enough to make Kadira add, "You do not have to do so if you do not wish, I - "

Shifting on his feet, the Hanyou stared through his bangs at the book in the miko's hands. He remembered the large tomes Kagome had brought into his own time as well as the myriad of paper filled things lining her bedroom shelves. At the time, he'd teased Kagome about having to study and read such things, but secretly, he was jealous of the young miko's abilities. Although he'd had a little bit of teaching from his mother, Izayoi had died long before he was able to understand much of the lines upon the paper. From what little he'd seen of Kadira's book, the writing was as good as gibberish to his brain. The pictures on the other hand . . . taking a few steps forwards, Inuyasha grabbed the book from Kadira's lap, holding it up at an odd angle as he asked, "What's it about? Is it a good story?"

"I'm afraid it holds only information on herbal remedy and treatment. There isn't really a plot or story."

Flipping through the pages, Inuyasha barely heard Kadira's words as his amber eyes focused on the beautiful drawings before him. Having grown up in the forest, the Hanyou had spent practically all his life around plants and with the exception of the occasional demon tree, had found the flora and fauna surrounding him to be a welcome reprieve from the predatory attacks of the meatier species. Stopping on one page in particular, Inuyasha's clawed finger traced the berries drawn on the page. Those red and pink fruits had saved his life on more than one starving occasion.

Noticing the Hanyou's interest, Kadira asked, "Do you see something you recognize?"

"Yeah, don't know what they're called though."

Motioning the Hanyou forward, Kadira tilted the book so she could look at the page he was pointing to. "Ah, those are Delvinia berries." With a frown, the miko added, "I'm afraid they went extinct a couple of hundred years ago."

Inuyasha didn't know why, but the information saddened him. "What happened to them?"

Sighing, Kadira's face appeared worn. "I'm afraid human's destroyed the berries natural habitat. They only grew within a small area of Japan and when the land was cleared, the berries were destroyed."

Growling low in his throat, Inuyasha released the rest of the book into the miko's lap. "What's the point in readin' some book that's only got dead stuff in it?"

"Not everything in this book is gone, Inuyasha. Besides, just because something has passed, does not mean it should be forgotten."

Folding his arms across his chest, Inuyasha tucked his hands into the sleeves of his shirt as he stared towards the large bank of windows. Earlier, he'd been fascinated by both the height of the building he was in as well as the surrounding city. But now, he understood. As with everything in life, the modern era had cost something. Something dear. Shutting his eyes, he internally sighed. God's, but he missed his forest.

So deep in thought was the Hanyou that he barely heard Kadira's voice as she asked, "I don't mean to seem intrusive, but I was wondering, can you read, Inuyasha?"

Feeling the heat rush into his face, Inuyasha continued staring off towards the windows. He'd always been embarrassed by his lack of education. To him, it was just another way his Hanyou self was inferior to his older, perfect Youkai brother. Sesshomaru already thought he was an idiot, no use giving the jackass even more verbal ammunition. Huffing, Inuyasha's eyes narrowed as he answered, "Don't see how that's important."

Shrugging her shoulders, Kadira knew she was walking down a very slippery slope. She'd learned quickly that often times, Inuyasha's gruffness was simply a cover for when he felt uncomfortable, or even worse, helpless. "It is only important if you wanted to know and had never had the opportunity to learn. I find reading both informative and enjoyable, but I suppose not all do."

With a curl of his lip, the Hanyou asked, "What's your point, miko?"

"My point, is that we seem to have little else to do but sit here and stare at the furniture. So, if you'd like to learn how to read the print upon this page, I would be more than happy to teach you what I know."

Eyes now wide and staring, Inuyasha contemplated the miko's offer. He still didn't trust her, but he also didn't think the old wench wanted to hurt him, at least, not unless Sesshomaru ordered her to do it. And, so far, Kadira just seemed to be babysitting him. The Hanyou wasn't sure how long it would be before he felt strong enough to get the fuck outta Sesshomaru's house and learning something useful didn't really seem like such a bad idea. Still . . . "You gonna tell my bastard brother that I can't read?"

Frowning deeply, Kadira felt as if she understood the Hanyou's hesitation. "If Lord Sesshomaru asks me point blank about it, I can not lie to him. But, I see no need to bring the topic up needlessly."

Cocking his head to the side, Inuyasha flicked an ear as he thought over the miko's words. He didn't smell a lie, and even without his nose, Kadira's answer was too straight forward to be anything but the truth. Besides, the woman was only human. Despite being a fairly strong miko, Kadira wouldn't stand a chance against his brother. And, in that vain of thinking, the Hanyou really couldn't blame Kadira for not wanting to lie to Sesshomaru, especially on a half-breed's account. "Okay, you got yourself a student. But just so you know, I ain't stupid. I can learn shit, I've just never really had the time."

Smiling, Kadira rose from her seat, making her way towards the bed; patting the space beside her as she opened the book back up to the page with the Delvinia berries. After all, might as well start with something the Hanyou was interested in. "I've no doubt there was little opportunity in your life for formal education, but I am honored that you would trust me to teach you something so important."

"-Keh, trust don't have nothin' to do with it, old woman."

"Well, perhaps not," Kadira answered, the smile fading somewhat from her face. "For today, we'll simply have to make due with the book we have. The next time we are together, I will bring some paper and pens . . . "

Sitting down on the bed beside the miko, Inuyasha's eyes stared at the picture on the page along with the black lines below it. If he looked closely, there were a couple of characters which sort of looked familiar, but he had no idea what they meant alone, let alone strung together with the other's. He wasn't really sure if he was looking forward to this or not, but considering it was either this or staring blankly at the walls around him . . . well, the Hanyou knew which route was the quickest to insanity and surprisingly, it wasn't the one where he had to listen to the ancient human's droning voice.

For the next two hours and through lunch, Inuyasha sat, absorbing Kadira's words and finding the information surprisingly interesting. Not that he really learned much about the individual kanji on the page, but he did learn the basics of the written word. But as the afternoon progressed, Inuyasha's body and mind wore out and pretty soon his muffled yawns and drooping eyelids were difficult to ignore.

"Inuyasha, I think your body is in need of further rest. It is difficult to learn and retain things when you're this sleepy."

Frowning, Inuyasha wanted to protest, simply on principal. He hated being told what to do, even when it was only a suggestion, but it seemed even his mouth was too tired to protest and in the end, all he wound up doing was scooting his body back on the bed and pulling the covers over himself. Within seconds, Inuyasha was fast asleep. By the time he opened his eyes again, it was dark outside and Sesshomaru was standing over his bed. Instantly, Inuyasha's heart rate increased as his eyes openly stared into his brothers. "Why the fuck are you just standin' there?"

Completely unfazed, Sesshomaru answered, "And where else would you have me stand?"

Gapping, Inuyasha thought his brother had to be the most frustrating entity to ever walk the planet. "How the hell should I know? Just get your perfect Youkai ass away from me. It's fuckin' creepy wakin' up to find someone starin' down at me, especially when that someone is you!"

With an evil smirk, Sesshomaru countered, "Would you rather wake to find me lying in the bed next to you?"

"W-what?" Scrambling up, Inuyasha pressed his back into the headboard. "Why in the hell would I prefer that?"

"I was merely giving you options, little brother. I know how you detest being given none, so I thought you might enjoy having a choice."

"A choice? That ain't no choice, Sesshomaru. A choice would be me never havin' to see your ugly face again."

Arching a single eyebrow, Sesshomaru stared down at his brother's obvious discomfort and yet he moved not an inch from his current position. "You find this Sesshomaru's face ugly?"

Now flustered beyond belief, Inuyasha felt the heat rising to his cheeks once again. "Of course I think you're ugly," Inuyasha flat out lied, "who wouldn't?"

Of course, Sesshomaru could smell the lie on the Hanyou's breath. "You should not be so dishonest, with me, nor yourself, Hanyou." Sitting down on the bed, the DaiYoukai's hand moved forward, his fingers easily sliding through the now silken tresses of his little brother. "I do not find you such. Indeed, this Sesshomaru finds you to be a beautiful creature." Watching as Inuyasha's silvery-white strands of hair fell through his slender fingers, Sesshomaru truly meant every word he'd just spoken and it was all he could do to refrain from burying his nose in that gorgeous hair, he just knew the sweet Hanyou scent would be intoxicating there.

Blushing for all he was worth, Inuyasha had no idea how to respond. He was used to being called everything from tainted to vial, but in one day, one human miko and one all-powerful DaiYoukai Lord had told him he was beautiful. Was everyone here on some kind of drug? Thinking along those lines, Inuyasha's face contorted into something distinctly unattractive as he questioned, "What have you been drinkin', Sesshomaru?"

"Drinking?" Sesshomaru asked, honestly confused.

"Yeah, you've had to have hit the sauce pretty hard to be confusin' your half-breed brother with anything you'd ever consider easy on the eyes."

Letting his hand drop, Sesshomaru stared at the doubtful look coloring his little brother's face. In retrospect, he guessed that telling the Hanyou one time that he thought he was beautiful was not nearly enough to overcome all the countless occasions where he had spoken otherwise. Hiding his disappointment, the Lord of the West easily slid from the comforts of Inuyasha's bed, loosening his tie and removing his jacket as he did so. Throwing the despised piece of fabric off to the side, Sesshomaru stretched his back and let mokomoko loose. Turned away from the Hanyou's bed, the DaiYoukai missed the look of wonder Inuyasha failed to hide at seeing his brother's fur unfold. Nor did he see the dry swallow the Hanyou took as he once again realized that far from thinking Sesshomaru ugly, Inuyasha considered the prickly DaiYoukai to be the most gorgeous being ever born. In a word, the Lord of the West was perfect.

Unaware of the unwanted emotions currently accosting his little brother, Sesshomaru continued working the kinks out of his neck as he thought back on the day. First, he'd had a short, but fruitful conversation with his driver, Sang-di. By the rapid heart rate and increased sweat Sang-di's body created, the DaiYoukai was fairly certain he'd gotten his point across. Oddly enough, Sesshomaru had decided to actually heed the wolf's advice for once and had not threatened the driver with what he had learned of his family. Shaking the thought from his head, Sesshomaru knew he'd have had no qualms about heading down that road had he not thought threatening Sang-di's person enough. Besides, the information he'd learned from Jaken regarding his driver's living weaknesses could always be brought out in the future should it be needed.

With his driver's silence secured, Sesshomaru had spent most of the rest of the day with Kouga as they discussed and investigated more into Lord Tullic's most recent activities. The scorpion Youkai had been a nuisance for several centuries now and Sesshomaru had more than had enough. This time, when they acquired the needed proof on Tullic's latest actions, the Lord of all Asia would not hesitate to eliminate the Youkai from the planet. Glaring at the mirrored wall of windows, Sesshomaru felt his anger rise. Half a millennia ago, the scorpion Youkai would already be dead and decaying in the mud. More and more he found the current laws constricting. Compared to himself, Tullic's power was paltry. But the Youkai had been elected head of not only the scorpions, but the centipedes and spiders alike. To simply destroy Tullic's useless body of flesh without proof of cause would, at minimum, create bad blood and at most, all out war. If it came to war, Sesshomaru had no doubts who the victor would be, but a Youkai war in this day and age would be messy and difficult to fully control. Should they be exposed . . . inwardly sighing, the Lord of the West pushed thoughts of the day behind him. A certain Hanyou still lying in bed was the perfect distraction from such a day.

"Kadira tells me that you are becoming bored." Turning golden eyes on his brother, Sesshomaru casually leaned against the doorframe leading to the bathroom. "If you are feeling up to it, perhaps you would like to take your dinner with me in another area of my home."

Blinking a couple of times, Inuyasha felt his mouth open - his lips barely parting as he sucked in a much needed breath of air. Only a few hours ago, he'd been wondering if Sesshomaru meant to keep him locked up in this singular room, not that he ever planned on allowing that to happen. Apparently though, Sesshomaru was going to let him out of his cage, and while the thought of eating with his brother didn't exactly thrill him, Inuyasha knew it would be stupid to waste an opportunity to learn more about the layout of his prison. "I gotta get dressed first."

Ignoring the Hanyou's obvious discomfort, Sesshomaru allowed his eyes free roam over Inuyasha's form, agreeing whole heartedly. Not that his little brother would be seen by that many other's, but something about letting the Hanyou out with only a pair of light sleeping pants made Sesshomaru's Youkai scream in protest. "There are more substantial clothing options in the closet."

Working his way out from under the sheets clinging to his legs, Inuyasha pushed himself from the bed, a light dusting of pink working its way up his cheeks as he found himself standing naked from the waist up. "You just gonna stand there and watch like some pervert?"

Suppressing the urge to shake his head, Sesshomaru wondered if his little brother would ever get over his apparent modesty issues. With a final look at his Hanyou, the DaiYoukai was pleased to find Inuyasha's wounds healing and his skin returning to that lovely shade of tan the boy seemed to always be sporting. Thankfully, the bruising was almost gone, leaving only a barely there shade of greenish yellow in their wake. Finding the tempting Hanyou too irresistible to ignore, Sesshomaru took a few steps forward; pleased when Inuyasha's body stiffened, but didn't retreat. "It is good to see that you are finally healing." As the words left his mouth, Sesshomaru's hand came forward, lightly tracing the Hanyou's collarbone.

With a deep breath, Inuyasha stayed his ground, refusing to back away. It seemed as if his brother had some kind of new fascination with touching his body. Used to, that would be a one-way ticket to a helluva lot of pain, but confusingly, the Hanyou was finding Sesshomaru's touches anything but hurtful. In fact, Inuyasha was becoming more and more perplexed by the distinct lack of revulsion such an action should invoke. Feeling a tingling warmth begin spreading out from Sesshomaru's lightly tracing claws, Inuyasha cleared his throat, "Yeah . . . well, I guess it's been long enough now, so . . . you know, I, uh . . . "

"Indeed, your healing capabilities have always been impressive."

Inuyasha couldn't help but snort, all feelings of warmth evaporating. "I guess I've always been able to take a beatin', huh big brother?"

Pulling his hand back, Sesshomaru felt the sting of Inuyasha's words. "I shall give you the privacy you wish to change. When you are finished, you may simply open the door and I will be waiting on the other side."

Still as stone, Inuyasha watched Sesshomaru walk across the plush carpet, his feet soundlessly edging ever closer to the door of his room, said door making even less of a noise as the DaiYoukai opened it, leaving the Hanyou alone; fists clenched by his sides. After what seemed like a small lifetime, Inuyasha finally managed to exhale the breath he'd been holding, slowly easing his claws away from the palms of his hands as he forced his body to relax. "Damned asshole," Inuyasha muttered while making his way to the closet. Inside, he found fresh pants and a shirt. He didn't bother with socks or shoes, Inuyasha didn't figure such things were needed as he was used to running around the forest without anything covering his feet so he could surely manage the floors of this behemoth building Sesshomaru called home.

Having been tailored for Inuyasha's body pre Sesshomaru hunting season, the Hanyou ignored the baggy fit and simply used the tie the DaiYoukai had recently discarded to ease through the loops on the sides of the pants, tying the expensive material in a crude knot to keep his pants from falling down. It might have been simpler to wear the pajama bottoms with the drawstring attached, but Inuyasha wanted thicker coverage if he were going out. Truth be told, what the Hanyou really wanted was his Firerat, but he hadn't seen that trusty garment since waking up into this twisted nightmare.

Satisfied, Inuyasha strode towards the door, making a short pit-stop by the dresser Tessaiga now lay upon. With a loving hand, the Hanyou ran his fingertips down the swords sheath, momentarily contemplating taking the thing with him. But what he'd told Kouga yesterday was still true today and the sword would do him little good against his brother, especially in his current condition. "Rest well," Inuyasha murmured before finally pulling his hand away, the whole of his body taking a deep breath as he walked towards the door and without hesitation opened it.

Ah . . . another one down and posted. Just as an aside, I know a lot of you out there aren't big fans of Kagome and truth be told, she's not my favorite either. I agree whole heartedly with the whole "sit" issue and that just being cruel and unusual punishment. That said, Inuyasha seemed to really like her and in this particular story, I decided to go with how he felt, not how I felt. Anyways, she doesn't really have much of a role in this story besides popping up as a memory here and there.

Oh, and we introduced a new character . . . Lord Tullic. You knew there had to be a bad guy pop up somewhere (well, besides Sesshomaru :) Don't throw anything, I like our prickly InuDaiYoukai a little too much.

Thanks again to all who reviewed last time. I hope you will again as they inspire me to write. I am honing in on the ending of this beasty. Thank you all for reading and I hope you enjoyed this latest installment. Until next time . . . lunamist