Kagome ran through the castle in an attempt to find her friend. She knew Inuyasha better than most and was positive he would be somewhere high, outside and where he could survey the area. So she continued her relentless pursuit. Inuyasha diving into the mysterious fire was only one of the many occurrences she wished to talk to him about. There was so much that had happened, so much they had yet to say to one another.
Everything that had led up to this mess was just that, a mess. Their fight and his demand that they leave had never been discussed either. But really, what could she say? She knew Touga wouldn't permit her to relay anything relevant to him. Instead he would see the betrayal and watch as the words became stuck in her throat. He would see her stutter without the ability to tell him about the war brewing inside of her.
In his eyes she would have picked his older brother, who had done nothing but abandon and belittle him, over their friendship.
Kagome slowed slightly while she continued thinking this through. What would Inuyasha see? His best friend or an ally of his brother's? The best friend that had all but forced his hand into staying at the castle. The same best friend who couldn't tend to his wounds when Sesshomaru sliced Inuyasha's stomach open. The best friend who was screaming at night but refused to leave the place he thought was causing them.
Had she picked Sesshomaru? She didn't mean to but looking back over it now Kagome had all but dedicated herself to the demon lord. She stopped to look around her, glancing at the decorations she had hand-picked not weeks before. Kagome had taken care with each item and the placement of the colors. She had made sure that Sesshomaru would never be taken advantage of because he did not have all his armor. Because he did not have anyone fighting along side him on that second battle front.
When had this changed? When did she decide to take on this responsibility? When did she no longer consider it a responsibility?
Instead of returning to her previous sprint Kagome turned towards the nearest window and looked out at the scenery before her. She saw gardens, workers and land in front of her. Land that belonged to no one but was protected by one. The flash of the vision Touga shared with her quickly crossed her mind as she looked on to all of that was in front of her.
Belonged to no one but protected by one. One very lonely demon, whether he wanted to admit it or not.
Mind you he was arrogant, and a complete jackass if one was being completely honest. But somewhere along the line Kagome had come to the conclusion that his little child self was probably just as pathetic as Inuyasha's.
Kagome placed her forehead down on the open window sill she stood in front of and sighed, "It's like I am only drawn to lost causes. God I am completely hopeless."
Something came over her in that moment, the same thing that had engulfed her heart moments before. Loss, grief, pain. It was all consuming and she knew she wasn't going to hold out. Whatever Touga was doing to her was litteraly destroying her body, possibly even her soul. She clutched her heart but swallowed what pain she could. It was unbearable and a new pain of her feet stepping on knives was quickly swimming to the surface. Were they bleeding? Were they shredded to a million pieces? Kagome dared not look as she tried to take another step forward but nearly stumbled to the floor.
"I-I can't," she whispered while stepping again as her breathing began to give out.
"Kagome!" yelled an extremely familiar voice. It was enough to shock her temporarily from her pain and search out the small familiar comfort. Looking up again she was shocked to see Miroku and Sango standing in front of her. When had they gotten there? She glanced to her shoulder to see that Miroku had placed his hand on her body but for some reason she couldn't feel it. She couldn't feel the comforting touch of a friend, the small pressure letting her know she wasn't alone. Instead it was just pain, excruciating that was everywhere with no known source.
God she wanted to cry.
"Kagome what is going on?" asked Sango. Her voice was sweeter than normal. The same volume and tone she had when discussing her brother. As if any moment her or the other person might break. Kagome had a sneaky suspicion she was the other person in this scenario.
Swallowing again Kagome pushed herself forward and managed a smile, "I-I've missed you guys."
Miroku moved his hand away from her body and crossed his arms, "Sesshomaru summoned us back from the neighboring villages saying you are unwell. Kagome, please tell us what is happening."
Kagome was somehow able to manage her breathing as her friend spoke. Slowly the content of what was being said dawned on her. "Se-Sesshomaru summoned you back?"
Sango brushed hair out of her eyes and moved from her crouched position next to her friend though did not answer Kagome's question. It seemed as if she was assessing Kagome's body language and was reading the pain being displayed through every twitch. Kagome continued to practice her deep breathing while making eye contact with the friend that was now scrutinizing every move.
To ease the discomfort Kagome continued the conversation along, "Yes, well. We aren't sure what it is but Malik has been oddly attentive since a few days ago so that helps."
Miroku's right eyebrow shot up in question at the mention of Malik's name. Miroku had a long talk with Kagome about not being alone with Malik for fear of Naraku having his work done for him by a supposed ally. I mean, Kagome's intolerance for certain behaviors had been known to bring about trouble for the group. No really, the two could have easily killed each other from pure frustration at being talked back to. "Malik? Not Inuyasha? After the disease swept through the castle I did not think Inuyasha would let you leave his side?"
Kagome pushed herself further away from the floor as she remembered her original goal to speak with her friend, "Inuyasha and I have been having a bit more difficulty than normal when it comes to communicating with each other."
Sango shook her head, "Well his brother is here. I can only imagine what that is doing to both of them."
Kagome nodded in agreement while internally berating herself. Some friendship brother bonding builder she was. All her hypothetical bridges were basically made out of toothpicks with how things were going. "I am actually going to speak with him now."
Miroku grabbed Sango's arm, and thankfully turned the scrutinizing gaze away from Kagome to gesture down the hall. "We were going to check in with Sesshomaru but I think he is preparing for the guests of the house. We saw a few loads of various carriages arriving. They were handsomely dressed as well. Perhaps they are plagued by evil spirits?"
Sango gave Miroku a death stare at the mention of using any of his previous tricks to gain illegitimate money.
Kagome immediately felt her temperature rise at the thought of the visiting nobles. In all her unconscious state she had completely forgotten about them. She sincerely hoped Inuyasha wasn't in the middle of all of that. It would just be her luck if he decided to pick a fight with a neighboring dignitary or something. With how things were going Sesshomaru wasn't about to stick up for his brother and Inuyasha would once again be out on his own.
Pulling her head back up Kagome turned towards the tree she knew her friend would be at. That pretty much settled it. It was time for a heart to heart with Inuyasha; Touga be damned. She was not going to leave him alone to face the court nobility. He was a half demon and they would emotionally tear him to shreds without anyone there.
Turning away from her friends, and noticing that the majority of the pain was gone, Kagome ran down the hall. Knowing they would question her behavior but accept it completely Kagome waved over her shoulder and pointed towards the room Malik was in down the hall, "He can fill you in. See you in a bit!"
Miroku blinked repeatedly as he processed his friend running down the corridor. The only demonic energy around was Malik. She had said Malik was helpful to her. Kagome was relying on him to share the castle events in an honest manner with the two humans. What in the hell had happened while they were gone?
Inuyasha sat in his tree as he watched the various carriages land in the courtyard. Pompous idiots. All of them. What demon wears perfume anyways? One with no nose? How they hell were they supposed to detect someone attacking them? Through sight? What demon is that frickin moronic?
He clutched his blackened hand in frustration and winced at the pain. The burn marks hurt like a mother but he would just have to deal with it. Where that fire came from he wasn't sure but something about it was familiar. It wasn't Naraku but it was still something powerful. Was something attacking Kagome that he wasn't aware of? And why the hell would she keep that from him?
His inner rant was causing a headache which only made him more upset. This is why he liked to punch things. Punching this made a person feel better.
His nose suddenly went haywire as the most delicious scent he had experienced became closer. Turning his head slightly Inuyasha inhaled deeply before she stepped through the door to the outside area where he resided. He was up for a lot of things but sharing the secret about her scent was something he wanted to keep to himself. Even from her.
Kagome stepped out into the outside area and he couldn't help but smile slightly. Her cheeks were red from the running and the fresh air hitting her face. She had been stuck inside for some time and her body already looked strained but it was clearly good for her.
"Inuyasha, can we talk?" asked Kagome while walking up to him. The branches he was in covered him completely from her view but somehow she knew he was there. She always knew. He chalked it up to her being weird.
"No, I'm igno-" he started but was completely cut off by something he rarely heard from his longtime friend.
"I'm sorry," she said while looking up at the tree.
Inuyasha's eyes snapped open and he felt himself holding back a growl. Stupid fucking human. Jumping down from the tree he landed inches in front of her. His anger was growing and he could feel it rising within him but some part of him needed her to understand. Even if it meant being vulnerable as hell, "You're sorry? You're sorry? About what? I'm the one who failed you. You are hurt and are having to rely on someone stronger than me to survive. I couldn't get you back from Sesshomaru. I couldn't protect the castle. I couldn't get you out of that bed. I couldn't pull you from the fire. I can't protect you in this time Kagome, it is killing you and I am not good enough to be your protector. So don't even try to take this Kagome!"
Kagome felt her heart break at all the things she knew Inuyasha felt like added to his list of life time inadequacies. Lifting her hand up to her friend's cheek Kagome immediately sensed him pull away. Grabbing onto the back of his neck Kagome yanked as hard as she cold and pulled him into a hug. Wrapping her arms around him she felt her body begin to sob. It was completely involuntary and not at all what she had planned. She had planned to tell him how perfect he was. How he was her best friend. The one person in the world she knew fate gifted her with. The most loving and compassionate soul she knew. But instead she cried, "I'm sorry I have been such a horrible friend. I'm sorry I made you feel, for even one second, that you were not good enough. I'm sorry that I hurt you."
It was slow but she felt it. She felt the muscles tense up and the arms move. Kagome knew she was safe, that they had both forgiven each other for whatever wrong they saw in themselves when Inuyasha's arms wrapped her comfortably in the most protective way possible. It wasn't until she heard Inuyasha hiss in pain that she remembered his hand. Pulling away she grabbed his wrist for a closer inspection.
Wiping the tears with her other hand Kagome pulled him to the ground with her to have a closer inspection. It was severely burned but she knew his healing abilities, as well as her own. Slowly she began mending the blistered flesh. Ignoring the smell of charred meat Kagome looked up while she continued to cry. "You know, you are an idiot for diving into a fire after me."
It was brief but she saw it. The tell-all sign of the corners of his mouth turning upwards, "Who the hell was the idiot who was set on fire in the first place?"
Sighing overly dramatically and whipping a runaway tear off her cheek Kagome playfully hit his arm, "An amazingly resilient time traveling priestess, who continuously defeats all the horrible odds thrown at her."
Inuyasha shook his head as he looked back up at the castle. They could hear various horns playing as the guards welcomed the new guests. He could only guess Kagome had set up some large banquet for them. It was a Lady of the West duty after all. Frowning at the thought he turned back to his friend. He watched as she inspected the wound as it knit together with the familiar pleasant tingling feeling that always accompanied her healing abilities. "You know, he doesn't deserve your help."
Kagome looked up at Inuyasha but did not stop her healing. Looking back down at the wound Kagome closed her eyes as she decided what to say. There were a few options but only one truly appealed to her. Of course it was the most painful one. "Back when Souta was first born I hated him."
That took Inuyasha a minute or two to digest. Wherever that came from it had to be a lie. Kagome's entire world revolved around her family. She adored them and everything that defined his friend was based around those people. There was no way she could have ever felt something as strong as hate for her little brother.
Kagome, seeing her friends confusion, looked over at the nosy entrance way. "Inever did tell you what happened to my father. I guess it was my way of not thinking about it but it seems right that I share now that we are here in this castle. My brother was about wo months old when he caught a terrible fever. It was probably the worst possible night for him to get so sick. There was a huge storm and their car went into a tree on their way to the hospital. My dad died instantly and my mother was in the hospital for almost two months. I moved in with grandfather while mom was in recovery and I guess we just stayed when she came back."
"I couldn't even look at him Inuyasha. It was his fault my dad died. At least that was what I thought. Every time he would cry or make a noise I would leave the room. Sometimes the house and I would stay outside in the cold for hours to just stop hearing him. I had threated to run away so many times it as ridiculous. If they would just return him and trade him in for my father I thought I would be happy, I thought that was how it worked. I meant it to, this was not some child negotiating with her mother. And this lasted for almost six months. It was like every time he did something all I could hear were tires, or rain. That hatred I felt completely consumed me Inuyasha. Until one day I broke down in the middle of another storm and cried in front of the god tree. That is when I meant Uncle Ken, you remember him right?"
Kagome looked up from her work and made eye contact with her best friend. He had met Uncle Ken once, during the few times he was in Tokyo for business, and had immediately disliked him. To be fair the feeling was mutual as Uncle Ken could be a bully and immediately told Inuyasha to cut his hair to avoid looking like a street rat.
Looking back at her work Kagome continued the story, "I guess if I hadn't of let it out that night I don't know where I would be now. Maybe I would have found another way to grieve, maybe I wouldn't have. The point is that at some point all of us need some help Inuyasha, whether we deserve it or not. I certainly didn't. But all of us are broken and alone at some point Inuyasha, I know you understand that better than most."
Inuyasha pulled his hand away from his friend as he contemplated his answer. "It's like you are his now. You are helping him and I, I feel useless."
Kagome felt herself smile more than anything once she heard that. She pulled his hand to her cheek and rubbed it against her face gently. Looking up at him Kagome truly felt loved in that moment. It must have taken her friend everything to say those words out loud. "He needs you the most you know. He needs a brother in arms as much as he needs one of blood. Me, I'm human and temporary. You are forever Inuyasha."
Inuyasha waited before he pulled his hand away to show her that he was listening. It was a wonder how Kagome did it, simultaneously healing his hand and a small fraction of his heart at the same time. Looking down Inuyasha was pleased to say that the healing had helped and he could move it without being in too much pain. The blackened skin had also dulled between a red and patchy color. "Hn."
Kagome immediately broke out into laughter as the mood shifted between them, "I do think you both need better communication skills though, somehow both you and Sesshomaru suck at it".
"Dogs have awesome hearing, you just suck at listening to us and go off and do stupid stuff on your own," argued Inuyasha.
Kagome clapped her hands together, "Did you just side yourself with Sesshomaru? Oh my god you did!"
Inuyasha's face quickly contorted to a look of shock. "W-what? No I didn't!"
The pair were too busy bonding to really take notice to the rest of their scenery let alone the window by the infamous court tree. So it was with shock in what he heard that Malik dropped to his knees. Time traveling priestess?
Sesshomaru glanced around the hall as he watched the other demons enter into his home. To his annoyance they all seemed to take a step back when first entering his castle. It appeared as if Kagome was correct. He was disheartened to admit it but her words from before rang true. She had done nothing but help his land grow stronger. Even her seemingly minuscule choices had all been for his betterment. But why she had decided to do such a thing? Continuous conversations with others came to mind as he continued down this path. The kit discussing his mother's love. Malik commenting on her stubbornness. The way she had cared for him when ill and asking for nothing in return. Her compassion for one such as his brother.
He was pulled out of his thoughts as the families each stepped forward to bow in respect. It was a formality he was forced to endure. Thankfully they were at the end and he might be able to breathe. He was thankful only half of the women had inferior sense of smell since that meant only half of them decided to bathe in smelling creams.
Still, even with the growing ache in his head Sesshomaru watched with interest at the women presented their names and titles. One day he may have to pick from this litter but right now he needed to know who to be more wary of. Now he knew to watch with a keener eye on the usually silent mothers and not just the daughters or overbearing fathers. That was another valuable piece of information presented to him. But how to watch while also being the watched was more difficult.
He decided to use the distraction currently presented to him and remain fixated on the doors opening into the room. While he was not surprised by the approaching visitor due to the familiar scent he was curious as to what he was doing here. He figured court would be the last place Inuyasha would want to be. Fascinatingly enough Sesshomaru noticed two of the mother's faces drop in horror. That was slightly amusing. Finally turning towards his kin Sesshomaru raised his eye brow in acknowledgement.
Inuyasha, who was now on a mission, turned towards his brother in the most formal way he could attempt with bare feet, "The reports are in on the military progress as discussed, I believe we are overdue for an assessment on the new recruit's progress."
An elder demon gaped as he took a step forward, "What is a half breed like you doing here? And how dare you speak to Lord Sesshomaru before I do? Do you know who I am?"
Inuyasha, in true Inuyasha form, looked from Sesshomaru to the older demon and answered in the most arrogant dog response possible, "No, I have no idea who you are old man."
Sesshomaru heard the pulse in the offended demon raise higher before he watched the face turn a red color. This was more than slightly amusing. This had now reached the unforeseen pinnacle of highly entertaining.
The demon sputtered and Sesshomaru watched as he glanced back at his mate. This shocked Sesshomaru. It appeared as if he was looking towards her for encouragement to continue. It was brief but noticeable now that he had not only the time to watch but the event to cause such a reaction. After the split second interaction the older demon returned back to match Inuyasha and walked up to the half-demon standing there. This demon was about a head shorter than Inuyasha but stood up to him as if they were the same height. "I am Raiku, and I oversee the fishing ports in the land, one of the most lucrative trades in the west. I demand to know what nasty little half breed speaks to me this way."
Sesshomaru saw it build, the temper and overly emotional reaction his brother was known for. For a small moment in time Inuyasha glanced at him then back at the group standing in their best clothing. It would be nothing but ridicule no matter how he answered and everyone knew it. He was a half demon speaking up in front of high ranking and powerful full demons. But still Inuyasha had chosen to be here. Why? There was no reason and their mandatory meeting was not scheduled till the following day.
In a shocking display Sesshomaru used his position as Lord of the house to intervene, "That would be Inuyasha, second son to my father and current heir to the west," replied Sesshomaru.
Inuyasha's head snapped in his direction but he wisely kept his mouth shut.
The demon's stuttered and Sesshomaru continued to have the opportunity to watch everything unfold. This was new as he was typically having to manage the room and prevent infighting within his lands. There had of course been rumors about his father's illegitimate son but to be publically recognized was a shock to all. He realized quickly how their plans for their time here changed in that split second and Sesshomaru swiftly saw the benefit of having that additional armor Kagome had informed him of.
The room grew silent as the demons decided what to do with the information while Sesshomaru came to conclusions of his own. Sesshomaru, wanting a reprieve from the perfume in the room and further time to process these new thoughts walked towards the now identified heir. Inuyasha, not understanding fully what had just happened, looked back at the group in an attempt to channel the pride Sesshomaru so commonly displayed.
The young demon Lord continued to take charge as he challenged the demons further, "While you are under this roof you are under this Sesshomaru's protection and as you know the West prides itself on our ability to protect what is ours. Do you intentionally challenge my authority or that of my families through this disrespect?"
Sesshomaru waited for a response but only saw their befuddled looks. Slowly the demon moved away from Inuyasha and stepped back by his mate's side. Sesshomaru directed his gaze to Shiho as he dismissed the conversation. Shiho for his part remained standing, who in true diplomatic fashion unlike his fellow Lords had made it to greet the visitors, "The servants will direct them to their quarters, my presence is required."
In a scene no one from the castle would have imagined both Sesshomaru and Inuyasha walked out the door together. Not side by side, Inuyasha instead a few paces behind him, but clearly a unified front. Shiho watched the two while suppressing a smile. It seems as if something was changing in this castle and he had a sneaking suspicion it was related to a priestess.
Once the two were a safe distance away and halfway to the training fields, Inuyasha stopped to look at his brother. Sesshomaru sensed his pause and waited a few seconds before turning around. With one glance they both waited for the other to speak first in this silent battle. Both were unsure if they were supposed to discuss what just happened but neither wanted to be the one to start the conversation.
Sesshomaru, the master of this particular technique felt no need to voice any thoughts.
Inuyasha on the other hand felt his impatience rise and the annoyance with the situation along with it. Crossing his arms defiantly he narrowed his golden sun kissed eyes as he made the decision for the both of them, "Kagome does not ever learn about this, I will never hear the end of it if she finds out we even considered helping each other."
Sesshomaru scoffed, a legitimate scoff. In his mind's eye he pictured the woman's response. Inuyasha's concern was legitimate and he had no desire to experience it himself. Besides, that would mean discussing what just happened which they both just silently agreed to never do. Glancing towards his brother as he reviewed the events since Inuyasha walked into that room he decided further investigation was necessary. Perhaps having Inuyasha around would have some benefits as well; If not for the insight then for the distraction. Nodding his head both Inuyasha and Sesshomaru jumped towards opposite roofs to continue with their duties. They after all had come to an agreement, not a friendship.
Kagome was aware she was desperate. She knew that her resources were running out especially without the ability to actually ask for what she really needed. But there was nothing on a priestess's body attacking itself. The only thing she could find was some reference to tainting ones soul and sympathizing with evil that has inhabited the planet. Well she had enough of that bigotry to last a lifetime which made her all the more glad of being raised in her era. If she ended up staying in feudal Japan much longer she was sure to disrupt the time line with her futuristic thinking on equality.
The question still remained though how was Touga doing this to her, and why? They had a decent relationship beforehand but now he seemed to actually want to kill her. Did he think that in some way her death would give him what he wanted? That it would bring the brothers closer?
"I hate dogs, they are cute as hell but destroy all sense of peace. Cat's are way better," she whispered. Rolling up the scroll in front of her and sighing Kagome attempted to ignore the shrapnel she felt like was resting in her back. Earlier today Kagome began coughing blood and something equivalent to black slime joined it. Each cough felt like something heavy was being pushed from her chest through her spine to her shoulder blades and it was excruciating. It took everything in her not to just give up. It wasn't until she sensed Shippo walking in from the other room that she moved from the position on the floor. She just couldn't let him see her like that, it would break him.
So she had decided to channel her millennial nature and research the hell out of everything, though Google would have been much easier, since it seemed as if ignoring the problem wasn't working anymore.
With a small flick of her eyes Kagome glanced at the door with the increasing presence of demonic aura. It looked as if she was being summoned. Taking as deep a breath as was permitted by her body Kagome pushed herself to sit straight and attempt to stand. Under no circumstances did she want to let anyone know just how bad it was getting.
Suddenly Hiko stepped into the room, a sealed letter in his hand. Bowing slightly he handed it to her. Feeling her arm cramp as she tried to reach out Kagome directed him to open it and read it out loud. He looked at her questioningly but proceeded to break the seal indicating a private message from his Lord. "It appears as if you are needed in the dining area immediately regarding the guests and their entertainment."
Internally Kagome scoffed. One she was not needlessly walking around the castle in her current state to entertain someone and two Sesshomaru could suck it. She had scrapped together the last few days the best she could, still remaining respectful but simultaneously destroying all sense of peace the demon Lord had attempted to gain. Her stepping into the little circus would undo all the work she had put into teaching an old dog a new trick.
Kagome dismissed Hiko without one of her customary friendly goodbyes as she watched him leave. The moment he was out of earshot, or what she perceived to be his range of hearing, Kagome all but collapsed. Catching herself on the shelf another large breath was taken. Before her legs could give out again Kagome walked towards the requested area. Through the halls Kagome attempted to smile at the passing servants knowing that Hiko wouldn't say anything but the servants would spread rumors like wildfire.
As she rounded the corner she was surprised to see Inuyasha standing tall by the door. Even in her pain Kagome paused in her steps. Was he wearing a uniform? With a belt? And shoes? Oh dear lord, was his hair brushed? Glancing around the room Kagome back peddled. She had all but locked herself in one of the libraries for about three days now but under no circumstances had the world changed that much.
Realization hit her, Naraku had infiltrated the castle. Theyhad ignored him for to long and he made his attempt at the jewel shards.
"Wench, where have you been? Sesshomaru is about to lose it and I don't want to miss it," berated her friend.
Kagome paused again and she assessed the situation. That sounded like something Inuyasha would say but still, caution was necessary. Accessing her vocal cords was taking more and more work but this seemed important, "My family pet's name, what is it?"
Inuyasha's crossed arms were impatiently placed on his hips as his foot started to tap. "Stop being a crazy idiot and-" his nose twitched in that adorable but dangerous way "wait, is that blood I smell? And it's coming from your mouth, are you coughing blood again? You swore it was one time Kagome."
Kagome saw the panic in him rise in the way that only Inuyasha could fully express. Still, she looked at his outfit then back at him. He clearly was wanting answers about her cough but nothing would sway her. He sighed dramatically and re-crossed his arms, "The stupid fat cat's name is Buyo. And I'm only wearing this cause it's got the family colors and really pisses those people off."
Nodding her head Kagome began walking towards the doors. The object of this game was to avoid further questions and not pass out from fatigue or pain. Hopefully he would forget about the smell.
"Oi! Woman, you didn't answer mine," he yelled. Unfortunately for him the servants on the other side of the door opened up the room at that time in order for her to walk in. With a forced smirk and an annoyed huff the two entered together.
What greeted them on site was an array of emotions. The first was shock, followed by disgust and intrigue. That was right, with her illness and general distain for racism Kagome had not introduced herself to the court. I am sure that a human being here was rather scandalous. "You summoned me Lord Sesshomaru."
To give him due credit Sesshomaru looked the perfect representation of a lord. He was poised, elegant and annoyed. Kagome was sure he was trained to portray all of those things on a regular basis. The annoyed part might have been on her end though, she had purposefully scheduled one-on-one meetings with all of the families into his daily activities. How else was he to truly understand their active role in his lands?
"Lady Kagome, a tour of the gardens has been request and since I am unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts you are the most appropriate candidate," he stated calmly. How he managed to frustrate her, make her a target of every member there and hand her a useless amount of work in one sentence was beyond her in that moment.
Kagome felt another cough in her throat but swallowed what she could. This was much to fine an opportunity to pass up because of a little thing called dying, he had after all ordered her to manage the guests. "My Lord, I have the utmost belief in your ability to properly display the gardens, I am sure your esteemed guests would love to have a tour provided by the keeper of the house. If you are worried about the schedule I am sure I can manage any correspondence you would need of me."
His lips tightened in an extremely un-pleased way. Kagome on the other hand could feel Inuyasha's joy in her response glowing like sunshine after a rainy day. He of course had engaged in this battle with her multiple times and knew what the outcome would be.
Kagome would win, Kagome always won.
Kagome made sure to let her eyes wander as she assessed the families before her. They continued to appear bewildered at the scene before them and Inuyasha's new clothing suddenly made more sense. The concept of Kagome being close enough to the Lord of their castle to assist in his daily activities along with the ability to read must have been debilitating to their fragile minds.
Sesshomaru stepped forward and glanced at his brother, "I have a scheduled training session with Inuyasha as we review the new battle strategies. I feel you might have more difficulty with this area."
Kagome noticed the dig he made to her person but let it slide. More important things were at stake here like Sesshomaru using Inuyasha as an excuse. Without glancing at her friend Kagome processed this information, as well as Inuyasha not denying the meeting. Were they helping each other? Further investigation was needed.
Narrowing her eyes Kagome looked at the guests, "A perfect display of power for your esteemed guests, what a brilliant idea. I can think of no better entertainment than watching two of the most powerful protectors sharpening their skills. I will of course notify the staff of our plans for an early dinner in the training fields as long as that pleases you my Lord. Besides, the gardens hold so much more beauty shortly after the sunrise and it is well past that."
There was no way out of this other than to say he did not want to spend time with the visitors and they both knew it. Moving his head slightly Sesshomaru responded, "This is acceptable."
And end scene, Kagome metaphorically dropped the mike and bowed graciously to those in the room. With a turn in her kimono, since Malik had commissioned a fire proof one for her, Kagome stepped towards the staff members who graciously surrounded her to assist in planning for the evening. With a critical eye Kagome glanced to the mirror stationed to her right to watch for budding enemies.
There was one that stood out to her, a mother with very high ambitions for her daughter. The power of the glare would have caused pause if Kagome was not already focusing every bit of mental energy on not collapsing from pain.
Once the doors had shut Kagome slowed her footsteps while taking in the statements from those around her. It appeared her seclusion to the library had caused a bit of discord in her ranks. It wasn't until someone causally mentioned that a bat demon was seen disrupting the flight patterns for the birds that Kagome's senses focused back on the situation at hand.
Turning towards the gardener Kagome quickly asked for the last known location. She slowly walked towards the area in hope that her gut instinct was correct and that Shiori had received her message.
Sesshomaru was appropriately irate. The two of them had come to an understanding that she worked for him and he was her superior, so why was she being so difficult? Nothing aggravated him more than dealing with the court and here she was destroying all sense of peace. This was why he traveled his lands, it permitted him freedom that days like this would never tolerate. Sighing he glanced out the window that overlooked the grassy fields Rin would have normally been running through. When held hostage inside Sesshomaru had always enjoyed the free will she so openly displayed. He was not so low as to lie to himself and say he did not miss her, but he knew better than to go down that road.
Sesshomaru had learned at a young age what it meant to care for something and the pain of losing that item was far worse than needed, especially when one could simply avoid the feeling all together. Knowing the thoughts of Rin would fade over time was something he would bare, it was far better than the alternative.
Turning slightly he glanced at his door. The half-demon had been standing inside of it for some time arms crossed in his typical angry stance. It seemed his presence was once again necessary. Of course he was still frustrated with the outcome of earlier today and was obliged to share, "She could quiet possibly be worse than you."
Inuyasha scoffed and pulled himself over to a nearby mat, "She is in pain, she is worse when she is in pain."
"She was supposed to subdue them," he countered.
"You were supposed to be less of an ass," argued Inuyasha.
Sesshomaru glared and Inuyasha matched it. "Why are you here?"
Inuyasha glanced out the window and growled to himself. He hated to admit it but Sesshomaru was better company than those families who pretended to stand him in case he inherited anything. At least Sesshomaru was forthright in his hatred and he knew what to expect. Instead of focusing on his own issues however Inuyasha did what he was good at and distracted himself with everything else in life, "She is getting worse."
With that statement the conversation became more uncomfortable than annoying for the young Lord. His eyes scanned the document nearest to him, and he would continue to tell himself it was not to distract him from an undesirable truth, as he contemplated a request for protection made by a distant settlement. It was human village which was unexpected; humans did not commonly request the assistance of someone who deemed their existence as generally unimportant.
Looking back towards his brother Sesshomaru answered the above statement regarding Kagome, "I am aware."
Sighing, because this was the most they had ever managed to speak in each other's presence without someone getting punched in the face, Inuyasha stood up, "If you just treat her like an equal I promise she will mellow out and go back to helping you. It will probably help her condition too."
Sesshomaru pulled the human request further to him as he read the scratchy writing of a priestess, his intrigue piqued further. Historically he would send others to take care of villages close to his home to remain fortified in the castle but this rogue wolf demon infestation was nothing to him. He had no reason to take the request. Seemingly absentmindedly Sesshomaru answered the pup's statement, "She is not my equal, no one is."
Inuyasha laughed at that one, "Come on Sesshomaru, out of everyone in the world Kagome has got the greatest chance of being a match for you and you know it. It wasn't me who shot your armor off of you, pulled Father's blade from his bones and used the sword's sheath to block your poison. It wasn't either of us who brought this group together. And all offense intended by the way, but when it comes to mind games Kagome totally kicks your ass."
Sesshomaru paused his hand as he realized the order he was about to sign. Had he nearly sent troops to this village? Why? With a slight frown he pushed the request away, "She as lucky in all of those endevors. If I were to actually give her notice she would not phase me."
He was surprised to see Inuyasha glancing out the window as he stood near the doorway no longer paying attention to their dispute regarding the priestess. After a few more moments pauses Inuyasha sighed loudly, "The little girl, she used to carry around flowers like that. What happened to her?"
Sesshomaru's aura darkened as the very thoughts that plagued him earlier came to the surface of his mind. Before he could inform Inuyasha of his uselessness and need to relocate to the underworld Inuyasha cut him off. Scratching his fury ears Inuyasha turned around, "It's okay, whatever happened was probably for the best. Those bitches are crazy and without someone like Kagome to keep them under control eventually they would have eaten her alive."
By the time Inuyasha was down the hall Sesshomaru looked down to see that he had signed the request and soldiers would be leaving at dawn.
Kagome had managed to arrange a beautiful sitting section where the nobility sat watching the training. Sesshomaru seemed particularly frustrated and Inuyasha was doing what he could to stage the attacks. Perhaps it was the audience but something within her gut told said his frustration was due to something other than the overwhelming presence of inbreeding. Instead she focused on those in front of her while silently scolding their outlook on life.
One had already treated one of her servants poorly and was quick to blame it on Kagome's incompetence with management. This type of demon was strange to her as she was used to battle ready warriors while traveling across the land with her friends. Some part of her kept thinking claws would be sharpened and teeth bared but the greatest threat to her was by far their ignorance.
"Inform me of a how a human managed to gain such a powerful position in court," asked one of the younger less experienced demons. Glancing over to his frame, perhaps being around 11-years-old if human, Kagome immediately gave this boy more credit than the others. So far he seemed more curious than anything, unlike his parents.
Smiling slightly Kagome reached to pull a lock of hair from the child's face and behind a very pointed ear. The feathers adorning the ear were quite beautiful but Kagome knew better than to say anything to a demon she hardly knew, "I suppose it has to do with trust. Nothing is more important than absolute trust when it comes to your allies. I would rather have someone of no power who will fight till the end with me than someone who would quickly stab me in the back at the first sign of victory."
His mother scoffed and Kagome felt the sudden need to hold the boy in her arms away from the lessons she was sure he had been raised with. His curiosity continued to show though as he poked her skin and drew blood, "It is so easy to hurt you though, what type of shield is that?"
"Everyone has their strengths, just as everyone has their weaknesses. True harmony comes from accepting both and never letting either one control us. Where humans are soft demons are hard. Where demons have power humans have compassion. When we are able to accept both sides and work together is when true growth happens."
The boy glanced at his parents for confirmation but they refused to participate in the discussion. Refusing the boys attention Kagome drew his interest again, "I try to channel both each day. I adopted my son after his parents were killed out of that softness but I would destroy anyone who thought to harm him which was taught to me by Inuyasha. We can all learn from one another."
Despite her recent difficulties functioning Kagome's powers flared in order to heal her wound. "Do all human heal so quickly?"
Pulling him down onto the blanket with her Kagome smiled, "No, I am a priestess and therefore have been granted special abilities to help protect myself and others."
In her joy spending time with the boy Kagome missed the look of anger that crossed his mother's face. Before anything else could be said the boy was ripped from her sight and pulled behind said mother, "Her kind kill ours Komo, that is what they were sent to this earth to do and it is best to destroy the infestation before it can grow."
Kagome's eyes narrowed, "Then of course there are those who enjoy the imbalance because they perceive it as making them better than others. Those people never get far though, someone always stops them."
Her nose flared as the demon stood taller, "Is that a threat?"
Kagome glanced to the surrounding people. She knew that this was an extension of the environment that Sesshomaru had created within his lands. She knew that hate begets hate and that this was his own doing. Demons would not act this way if it wasn't encouraged just as human would not for the same reasons. She also knew that equal rights movements were a long way off and her arguments would fall on highly sensitive ears who would refuse to listen. "No, it is an observation. I have seen enough through time to know what true power is. It is not in ones claws but the type of person who wields them. Nothing is greater than true loyalty created from balance, kindness and honor. Nothing."
The boy, and his cousin who sat with her own family, both moved in slightly to hear more. Both clearly knew not to test their parent's patience though for they made sure not to lean in to noticeably.
"Momma! Did you see that move Sesshomaru just did! He just threw Inuyasha through like four trees!" yelled her exuberant little kit as he rushed through the brush. Turning slightly, and deeming Shippo more important than the demons in front of her Kagome felt her face light up while watching his tail move quickly towards her. Shippo quickly jumped into her arms and Kagome was surprised to see the typical body pain had at some time during her standoff gone.
Glancing down at the lovable fur ball in her arms Kagome smiled, "I thought you were training with Hiko's squad today."
Shippo's familiar blush brushed his cheeks, "We were but then Sesshomaru showed up and we all started watching him."
Kagome swore she could feel the hero worship exuding through his pores and for once it wasn't towards Inuyasha. What in the world was happening in this castle? Despite the two's relationship Shippo had always possessed a certain level of reverence for the half demon but this right now was full on astonishment for the full blooded dog demon. Deciding to go with it Kagome laughed, "Yes well we all know that nothing could ever top one of Sesshomaru's smack down throws."
Suddenly Kagome felt more than saw a tree coming her way. Ducking on instinct, though it was at least three feet above her head, Kagome watched has half a tree trunk rolled away from the spot the onlookers sat at. More than a few yards away Inuyasha's distant form stood livid, "What the hell Kagome! Not cool!"
Beyond all reason Kagome had forgotten that with their heightened senses the two dog demons could probably hear her. Scrunching up her nose Kagome laughed awkwardly while trying to salvage the situation along with Inuyasha's ego, "Just kidding."
Inuyasha effectively channeled his inner child and stomped his foot which created a nice little dust cloud in his wake. Turning back to his battle, where Sesshomaru had oddly enough waited patiently and was not spouting things related to unnecessary distractions, the two resumed their fight.
Kitsune in hand and the boys properly distracted once again Kagome turned back towards the group in front of her. With a huff of frustration at being caught Kagome mumbled, "Dog demon's are so sensitive."
This time a sharpened branch quickly logged itself into the tree beside her head and imbedded itself a good 7 inches into said tree. Her shock of the branch resting not three inches from her face quickly wore off. Rightfully miffed Kagome spun around with furious intent in her eyes, "Inuyasha I swear you are such a little-"
But it wasn't Inuyasha who was there; instead stood a very tall silver haired demon as her nose all but pressed against his armor. How in the world had he moved so fast? Slowly moving her gaze upward Kagome wasn't sure how to respond. He was just so tall, and muscular and was that amusement in his eyes? He moved his newly re-generated arm forward and pulled the makeshift spear from the tree without a word. By the time she blinked he was back into the arena large enough for him to transform should he wish it. With another huff and complete disregard for her safety Kagome was completely incapable of helping the words that tumbled out of her mouth, "Well at least now I know immaturity is a family trait."
The small boy, eyes as wide as they could go, stepped around his mother and closer to Kagome, "Did his Lord just attempt to kill you for insubordination?" The demoness attempted to grab the child by his arm but the boy dodged it as his curiously overrode any rule his parents could have implemented in that moment.
Kagome looked back over at the two brothers, their similarities and differences becoming more and more apparent. Turning her head again she corrected the obvious mistake the boy had made, "No I would definitely be dead if he was actually upset. That was him embracing his inner child who likes to tease others," and then left it at that.
The boy nodded his head like that somehow made sense and fit the picture of the powerful Western Lord he had heard tales of. Then he glanced at Shippo and blinked again. In a very undignified manner he pointed at the fox demon, "Who are you?"
Shippo, who spent way too much time around soldiers, rolled out of his mother's arms and onto the ground. Standing with his tail fluffy and as tall as can be he glared at those around him, "Are they going to hurt you momma? I can protect you now Lord Sesshomaru has been training me."
The young boy's eyes lit up at the idea of someone so powerful possibly taking an apprentice and then meeting said apprentice, "Really?"
The demons stood up as they assessed what the boy had said, "Stop lying, and do not call this pathetic creature your mother."
Kagome on the other hand had a completely different response, one full of outrage and shock, "Sesshomaru has been doing what?"
Shippo ignored the others and picked up the horrified tone his mother was conveying. He quickly looked away in guilt and dug his big toe into the ground, "Oh that's right, I wasn't supposed to tell you."
He wasn't supposed to tell her?
Red, that was all she saw, like blood red. Her baby boy was just that a baby boy. Sitting with the guards and talking about how to dodge a few knives was way different than anything Sesshomaru would be putting the kid through. And then he told Shippo to keep it secret? From her? His mother? Heads would roll and pretty silver hair would fly everywhere.
Without thinking she grabbed the bow and arrow next to her, she was surrounded by demons after all, and fired a sacred arrow. It didn't even matter that she instinctively shot said arrow and had no idea how much holy power she channeled into the wood. It didn't matter that Sesshomaru turned to face it, attempting to prove a point to his younger brother regarding their earlier discussion as the arrow was poised to hit him dead center on his chest armor. It didn't even matter that the armor immediately disintegrated upon impact and he flew back a good few feet before barely managing to catch himself from falling on the ground. Looking around one would have seen that the surrounding trees had been blasted away by the force of power displayed to create a new private clearing to train in.
What did matter was the small smile that secretly adorned both dog demons faces. One in pride and the other in acknowledgement.
Slowly, because that was Sesshomaru's way, he straightened himself back up and began to walk in the direction of the onlookers. Inuyasha, unable to sense his brother's intent but knowing no demon liked purified arrows shot at them, remained as close as possible. He walked no more and no less than a foot away from his bother's side. Despite Sesshomaru's quiet and aloof nature Sesshomaru had always been a wild card in terms of unpredictability. A poison whip was a more than a likely situation and Inuyasha could only hope that Kagome had earned enough credit in his eyes to warrant a glare with a rude dismissal.
Kagome threw her arrows down on the ground and prepared to ask the surrounding environment for help. She knew the bow and arrows would be no match for him in a close range situation. Briefly she was distracted by the children in the group as they tried to get a better view of the impending fight. Beside her she heard Komo whisper in aww something about being both soft and hard, power combined with compassion.
If it had been any other moment she would have congratulated herself on displaying her teaching point and him on recognizing it.
After about 5 minutes of a slow paced walk the two were standing across from each other again. This time Kagome was prepared and had her defiant stance ready and her killing intent just barely overriding her drive to live.
Sesshomaru for his part continued to study her. He took in her clothing, her mannerisms and her kit. He replayed the conversations he had overheard and the past situations they had been placed in together. He remembered the loyalty to his half-brother in his father's tomb and the few interaction the girl had had with Rin.
Then he came to a conclusion.
"That," he said calmly, "was fair."
Kagome's heart immediately dropped into her stomach and the wind around her stopped. Nothing could have prepared for her that comeback. Every defense she had released themselves with those words as her mind scrambled to catch up. Meanwhile Sesshomaru was acknowledging her claim as a mother so she would be sure to give him the same respect until her brain caught up with her. "You should have told me."
"Your need to protect the kit limits him, you would have denied me," he answered back calmly like that was his decision to make.
Kagome let out a small sigh while not even able to process his subtle claim to Shippo, "He is just a boy, he could get hurt."
Sesshomaru nodded, "He wants to be able to protect you. It is his right and instinct to defend his mother."
Kagome's shoulders dropped slightly as she recognized what her over protective mother behaviors were costing her son and how Sesshomaru had gone about correcting that. He had taken in her son and did what Kagome would never be able to do; he was helping to manage the demonic instincts Shippo had and put them to use. It did not escape her notice that out of everyone it was Sesshomaru who had stepped up and challenged her mistake. "He…he has a set bed time."
Sesshomaru glanced at the kit, "And now that you know he will no longer be leaving during the middle of the night."
Kagome crossed her arms at his steadfast tone that clearly thought he had already won, "And he would need to keep up with his studies."
Sesshomaru felt she was now pulling at straws and could not help the smirk quickly overtaking his face, "Has he fallen behind so far?"
Kagome bit her lip due to no longer having a response to give him. Shippo had indeed been on top of all the reading assignments given to him. Glancing at Inuyasha, whose jaw had officially dropped to the ground, she turned towards the towering Lord in front of her. "Very well then."
Shippo immediately jumped into the air and began yelling excitedly. "I am going to be so cool! And then I can throw Inuyasha through a tree! And can we learn that one next? We can use Inuyasha as a practice dummy, he can just stand there like he normally does."
"Oi!" yelled said half-demon, "you still have stalls to clean with the rest of the recruits and a training ground to repair. If you think for one instance he is going to train you if your work ain't done you've got another thing coming kit."
Kagome glanced back at Shippo as she remembered him biting the guard that initially tried to kidnap them when entering into the castle. It seemed time really did change all things, those things included her son. Part of her was happy but another part of her felt her heartbreaking as she pictured him one day living without her. It was inevitable afterall, even if she remained in this time Kagoem was human. She would die and her friends would live on with their extended life span.
Then it happened, her heart lurched in pain. It continued forward to where she could no longer feel the ground beneath her feet but instead a vat of nothingness. What sprung from her chest could only be described as the world's rejection of her very being. It didn't want her there, it wanted her gone. Then the pain returned and she saw it. Kagome's eyes registered the blood on Sesshomaru's face and the shocked look on his person.
Kagome instinctively knew the blood was hers and shakily looked down at her hands. They were covered in long lash marks as blood continued to pour out of them onto the ground. Her body was covered in them, red life giving liquid coating her clothes and feet. She watched as one spontaneously formed on her wrist traveling up her arm like a blade dragging across her skin. Kagome's scream of pain caught in her throat briefly before the agonizing yell came out of her mouth. Her legs gave out and the nearest person caught her before she reached the ground.
In the rush of things no one felt the slight breeze of the underworld emanate from the corporeal dog demon. He leaned against the formally impaled tree as he mentally justified his actions. He tried not to think of the young girl's pain or the terror she must be feeling as her body turned on her.
Touga watched the scene with sad eyes. Inuyasha who had yanked the priestess from his brother's arms and carried her to the healer within the keep. The young boy who was in awe over the interaction of demon lord and human. The court nobles who were justifiably shocked over the raw display of power the human shared. The kitsune son who was attempting to stop his tears; and Touga's own son Sesshomaru. Sesshomaru who remained stone still basking in his stoicism when faced with fear.
In over two hundred years Touga had watched for the barest hint of emotion from Sesshomaru. He just needed something to show him Sesshomaru could be saved, that the heart had remained in the body with the ability to feel anything other than apathy or hate. Then she appeared and stole the sword from Touga's decaying form and brought forth more feeling than the last two hundred years had seen. There was anger, curiosity, frustration and shock. So he watched further as the small child changed lives, everyone but Sesshomaru's. Now in a few small weeks he had seen more than could ever be anticipated. It was so clear to him now as he watched everything happen.
It was the only way. The girl brought forth more emotions and honor than Sesshomaru had been privy to in centuries. In order for that to continue, for his son to live, the girl would have to die.
He needed to kill Kagome.
Firevixen73- Hello readers, I am back to writing and felt it was time to post this. Thankfully the two people who had taken my stories as their own have taken them down and I have not seen any since. I am trying to re-start my stories as we begin the new year. I have direction I want to go and am using all the momentum I can find for everyone who has stuck with me. Thank you so much and I will be sure to keep posting. I already have half of the next chapter done and am psyched to see it completed in the near future.