I'd Rather Have the One Who Holds My Heart

by Torian

A stubborn Prince Sesshomaru turns half demon after failing his deceased father's character test. When Kagome friends all die, Sesshomaru takes her in and must find value in loving her as a human or he will never earn his full powers back to run his Kingdom; Kagome must protect a Greek Goddess-crafted bow from a Titan or risk unleashing a violent War of Gods onto the world.

14. Dreams of Reality

Hello to all my viewers and welcome to a beautiful and enchanted fanfiction I created on my own, yay! I had to do this, for the simple fact of, we're finally getting ready to get to the adventure part of the story where everything skyrockets. It's my little Inuyasha manga without it really being from inuyasha I guess cuz I love Sessomaru lol. Anyways though, I'll probablly take a bit longer to update than usual. I have way too many people viewing this story and since I don't have school, I want to take time off to edit some stuff. I noticed mispellings, mistypes, wrong characters saying the wrong quotes, and even words (more than one) missing from sentences, or actually sentences missing! How you guys could bare it is more my appreciation you have for the plot of the story you have no idea. But I won't be adding really important things. Just minor grammer things for all those that are picky with grammar. Hopefully this chapter will be good enough to keep you going. So that's just my little messenger for you guys. Anyways, without furthor adue, I introduce you to the next chapter of I'd Rather Have the One who Holds My Heart: Chapter 14- "Dreams of Reality"

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There was a bright full moon shining into the sky and the lakes were still and the atmosphere was quiet. Then suddenly, the lakes began to create ripples and the crows squaked flying quickly in the opposite direction. Heavy panting was heard rushing through the woods jumping past trees. A woman wearing a green robe and a gray skirt with her red scarf was running as fast as she could filled with fear. Tears in her eyes. As she ran, something loomed behind her filled with light. But the light was not that of good, evil could be sensed off of it as the girl quickly ran. But the mysterious light was gaining ground on her.

"Please!" she cried, "Please leave me alone!"

She contiued to run but then tripped on a rock cutting her foot and fell in the river. The girl gasped looking at the reflection to see the floating light behind her and she turned around. When the light dimmed down, standing there was a beautiful white horse with a long white mange looking at her.

The girl shivered in fear, "No! No please leave me alone. No!" the horse merely approached, it's eyes glowing a tainted black color as the girl screamed in torture.

THE next day in the village there were harsh cries.

"Inami! Inami!" an elderly man cried.

Everyone in the village came closer into his home looking inside. The girl that wore the green robe and gray skirt had been in her bed lying there lifeless. Her whole body was completely pale and drained, and her eyes were completely dark and tainted. As though her very being was gone.

A bold monk then entered into the hut. He wore a yellow outfit and looked down at her and examined.

"Please, please not my precious grand-daughter, I hope she is not hit with the plague herself!" he cried.

After the monk examined her he looked fearfully at the old man, "I see. I'm sorry to tell you but this is no plague. It appears your granddaughter's soul has been swipped from her."

Many of the nosy villagers that were there began to whisper in harsh whispers.

"This has gone on for long enough," one said.

"Yes, this is the 12th one this week alone, our village will be taken out if we do not do something soon!" another panicked.

"So what are you saying!" the old man panicked.

"I'm sorry sir. The best I can do is pray for her spirit well. You're granddaughter is no longer with us. Judging by how she looks," the monk moved closer to her, "It appears this was done by a very powerful demon."

"So what do we do? No one's really safe!" someone else shouted.

The monk then turned to them, "What do you mean?"

"Well," said a village man, "It appears that from all the victims this has happened to Monk, the thing that they all had in common were that they were sleep when it happened. Every time one sleept, more than one person would be found in this condition the next morning."

"I see," thought the monk outloud, "An enemy that seems to feed off of people's dreams. How troublesome," the monk furrowed his eyes.

"There is not a way you can help us monk?" asked the old man, "Please, no one should have to loose their lives over this. The town is afraid to sleep at night."

"I do understand. The best I can possibly do is talk to the head of your village and have them seek assisstance. A demon as crafty as this eluded me very easily," he said walking up to the girl's dead body picking up a burned out insence stick and a pot filled with herb oil. "Your Lord of this village called me here to take care of this but it seems this is out of my hand. A demon knows a demon. And at this point your village will look like a ghost town if you don't call for your demon lord to handle these matters."

"But he hates humans, he doesn't care! King InuTaisho was the only demon lord of the western lands that has ever tried to help us!" the old man cried out in despair.

"Perhaps," sighed the monk, "But ask none the less. Had he hated you that much he would have destroyed every human village in his territory and he has not. I don't argue that he hates humans, however-I do to some degree believe that between human and demon matters: he is fair."

The people then looked at him with distrust and skeptisim. The monk then sighed, "You will continue to loose more people this way. Is this really the time to be so picky about who helps you? You must beg it of your lord while he is alive and able. Send for Lord Sesshomaru, Prince of the Western Lands, perhaps he will better know how to handle the situation." He nodded and then walked off leaving the people disgruntled but doing as they were told.

---

KAGOME landed on ground looking around out of caution. Ever since the day Kodoichi had arrived her training had been that more vigorous. But as she got used to it, with her own self training, she had gotten alot better. Right now she was in the middle of the forest looking around, Sesshomaru had disappeared and would probably strike at any moment. Kagome had applauded herself, she had gotten a whole lot more better-probably to about Sango or Mirokus level. She knew they would probably be proud of her if they had seen how she was now. This much though, made her a bit sad. If only she was this useful back in the battle of Naraku, perhaps, just perhaps, no one would have had to die.

In a random direction of the forest that she had hadn't expected, a green whip headed towards her. Kagome turned around and gasped and quickly jumped into the air dodging it, landing onto the ground. The whips followed her as she ran barely dodging the whips. The Artimis Bow glowed and her speed began to increase as she then decided to jump into the air dodging the whip. The whip would hit the ground her foot would touch and then try to hit her again but missed just as well. Between Kagome's control of the Artmis Bow, she did notice that in her focus of training that learning about the Artimis Bow had helped to endure her training with Sesshomaru. She had learned to do all sorts of things. She could shoot different types of element arrows at will and create barriers, and she had also learned during another training session that she could block attack and spells and her weapon could transform into a sword.

On the roof of the castle watched Geninji and Makato.

"Her learning curve is incredible," said Geninji, "for a human to have been a month. She's so focused."

Makato nodded agreeing, "She really wants to defeat Aridon."

"Ah no, that's just a trial. I doubt its something so small and trivial," chuckled Geninji.

The wind then blew and Makato looked at him confused then smiled looking back on the battle field, "You're right. It's about her reason to fight isn't it?"

"That's exactly the reason," smiled Geninji.

The green whip then caught Kagome's Artimis Bow forcing her to land. She gripped her weapon pulling it back as the whip tried to pull her, she dragged through the dirt a little bit and used her strength to pull the whip all the way out landing on the ground.

She then gasped, "It was bait!"

She quickly looked up to see Sesshomaru coming down at her with his Tokijin. Immediately, their was a flash of light from the impact of Sesshomaru's attack and Kagome blocking it. When the flash subsided Kagome was blocking his sword with the sword form of the Artmis Bow. She struggled under his weight and Sesshomaru smiled smuggly which really started pissing Kagome off. Kagome then formed a pink reflection barrier off of her which pushed Sesshomaru back into the air. He did a recovery move and started laughing and went back into the forest. Kagome panted evenly with frustration looking around.

COMing onto the rooftop joining Geninji and Makato was Nardisia, "How is she?"

"It appears Sesshomaru's testing her with enviornmental skills. She can't seem to find him," Geninji laughed amused.

"That is funny. Wasn't that your area of expertise Makato?" teased Nardisia, "Maybe she needs a better teacher."

"Shut up!" snapped Makato blushing embarrassed, "I taught her well thank you. She'll do fine. If she gets hit she'd better not be down for the count because it only means you did poorly teaching her how to endure attacks."

"Don't attack me because you're training is lacking," laughed Nardisia. "I'm the fighter, she'd probably been alright if she would have just been in my hands."

"Thank goodness that's not the case. Goodness knows you have no discyplyn in yourself and it definately shows in your fighting style. You fight as barbaric as Master Inuyasha used to," combat Makato.

"Why you!" blushed Nardisa embarrassed.

Geninji then sighed, "Will you two take that elsewhere geese. If you want to see the results of your training then just watch-no use in fussing about it."

"Yes my lord," they both pouted from the chastizement.

Makato then watched the spar stretched out, she really didn't want to get embarrassed, "Come on Kagome remember our training. You've got to, otherwise Lord Sesshomaru will eat you alive out there."

ANOTHER whip then shot out to hit Kagome and immediately her weapon transformed back into an arrow bow and she knocked it back. She began to look around thinking frustrated, almost panicking, "Think Kagome think. What was it that Makato told me in training again about demon auras?"

FLASHBACK:

Kagome sat in the middle of the forest on a rock concentrating. Her object was sense demon energy off of Makato. Makato would hid in the forest and come at her from a random direction to attack. Kagome's goal, was that if she successfully sensed her demon aura, she would be able to block it with her Artmis Bow from an immediate summoning. The wind blew and immediately out of no where Kagome heard a shift in the air and she turned around to recieve a kick in the face being knocked off the rock.

Makato sighed frustrated, "Wrong. Wrong, wrong, wrong! Come on Kagome. You're still not catching on."

Kagome got up rubbing her face, "That had a little too much power in it."

"Sorry, I'm not trying to get hurt by your weapon when you block it. Well you were suppossed to block it I mean," said Makato, "You're still having a hard time sensing demon energy aren't you?"

"It'll take alot of time, I mean I'm only human," shrugged Kagome sadly.

"Oh no. As much out of the ordinary stuff you pulled, I refuse to let now of all times, you decide to use THAT as an excuse, as a disability. Not by me you aren't," said Makato walking over to her helping her up. "Sit on the rock."

Kagome hesitated for a second by conspired and sat and Makato stood in front of her breathing evenly.

"Now its my turn to teach," said Makato. "Close your eyes. Sense everything around you. It's peaceful. You have to get to know your area. Know the aura and the piece of what a forest feels like. What the castles feel like. What humans feel like. What villages feel like. All of them have a different aura, have a different kind of peace. Meditate on it, do you feel it?"

Kagome heard the birds and then suddenly felt relaxed being overcome, "Don't rush it," said Makato, "Now listen to me. Every demon, no matter how hard they try to hide it. Every demon has an aura. Rather the demon is good or bad, their aura is always evil because it is demonic. We are not beings that technically belong here. It is our aura that represents power, that upsets the balance of nature. When you feel that off balance, you know it is by the works of the demon. The stronger their aura, the stronger the demons are. Now, open your eyes and look at me when you feel something wrong."

Kagome just stood completely still and Makato slowly began to walk towards her. With each step, as she approached the halfway mark Kagome flinched. For a second, she felt something in the air, like a disturbance. "Slowly now," smiled Makato, she then walked halfway point distance her and Kagome were and Kagome's face began to construe. Suddenly Kagome felt taken, there was a harsh pulse in the air, a swirl. Something disturbing that wasn't usual.

Makato pulled out her sword. And as soon as she got less than a foot away from Kagome to strike, Kagome immediately blocked it with her Artimis Bow. From the impact Kagome opened her eyes and looked up at her smiling proud teacher. Kagome then became intransed shocked.

"You see it. Don't you? My demonic aura?" asked Makato.

And she did, she did see. Surrounding the crow demon Makato was a strong purple aura that radiated off of her, almost pulsing.

"You're so strong," said Kagome in awe.

"You'll become stronger than me don't you worry. Student has to surpass the teacher sometime. But I knew you had it in you," Makato then dimmed her aura, "This is what it looks like when you try to hide it. Depending on just how strong you are you either can't hide such power. Or you're scarily good at it. Don't worry, practice is far from over I'm teaching you every area in this so don't worry. You should have experience sensing stuff. Didn't you tell me and the girls you were the only one who could sense the jewel fragments of the shikon jewel?"

"Well yeah but that's a bit different," said Kagome blushing.

"Sensing is sensing. It all feels the same, when it's far a away its not as strong and when it gets close enough to you it gets stronger, remember that," Makato said turning around walking off.

FLASHBACK OVER

Kagome then snapped out of it, "That's it, that's right she said you can't ever hide your demonic aura. So if Sesshomaru own a whole western region and he's a therobred. His demonic power must be strong." Whips then went out towards her in different directions and Kagome easily maneurvered dodging them without moving from her spot. She then looked among the forest around her and turned back around smiling. Makato from above nodded proudly. "Too bad."

Kagome pointed her arrow in the arrow pulling a purple arrow and released it into the area. The area completely exploded and Sesshomaru jumped from the area coming out of hiding. Quickly, Kagome pulled a dark arrow with electricity and missed. Sesshomaru smiled and threw his whip capturing attacking her and she fell onto the ground. She got up caughing as Sesshomaru landed on the ground.

"Heh, not bad for today. You should probably give up, you must be tired. Especially if you can't even shoot arrows straight," teased Sesshomaru.

Kagome stood up smiling, "I didn't miss."

Sesshomaru stood there shocked and immediately the black arrow she shot went through his left shoulder and his shoulder armor broke off. He kneeled down and Kagome gasped.

"Sesshomaru!" she cried running over to him.

"Lord Sesshomaru!" everyone on the roof gasped.

Sesshomaru chuckled holding his left shoulder, "How foolish, I should have paid more attention."

"I'm so sorry!" panicked Kagome, "It was an arrow I practiced. It's ability can travel through different dimensions until it hits its target."

Sesshomaru closed his eyes turning away from her, "What a convience."

"Come here let me take a look you're hurt," said Kagome touching his arm.

He immediately flinched away and Kagome looked up at him. His bangs covered his face, "I'm fine," he said gently.

Kagome smiled, "Alright tough guy, I want to see how bad it is," she then forced the sleeve down and gasped to see there was only a burn mark.

"Do you have such an obsession of ripping off my close forcefully, this Sesshomaru sometimes wonder," he said flatly.

Kagome blushed moving back, "But I don't get it! How? It went right through you, don't tell me it healed already?"

Sesshomaru stood up pulling his sleeve back up, "That is what happens when you pick the right armor," he then picked up the pieces of his broken one that was left, "You've done well today human."

ON the roof, Makato and the others looked in awe.

"Talk about a lucky break," said Nardisia.

Makato nodded, "Yeah, but at least she figured out where he was. Who's the best teacher now?"

"Psht, whatever. She was able to stand those blows thanks to moi, she just lucky guessed where he was," Nardisia waved down.

Geninji sighed, "Honestly. I'd say she used both of your techniques today. Can't we just be happy with that?"

SESSHOMARU looked down at Kagome and she stood up preping her Artimis Bow.

"Okay so what's next?" she asked determined.

Sesshomaru just looked at her for a moment and looked at her. Training had done her well. Her body form was perfect for battle and for his eyes and that alone. But he could tell she was exhausted. All month long, his trainings were rigourus but he never tried to push her so hard. She pushed herself. Her will was there, but her body told it all. Kagome blushed under his stare, she had to admit, since Kodoichi's visit he was actign weird with her. It kind of made her uncomfortable, and for once she wished she knew what he was thinking. But she was frustrated with the whole thing, for every time she did what Symphony advised, he always avoided eye contact from her. As though he knew what she was doing. Did he?

Sesshomaru then looked at the roof at Makato and she gave him a confused look blinking. She then nodded and turned around.

"That's kind of weird," mumbled Makato.

"What did he ask you to do?" asked Nardisia.

"Well, I'll need your help for it. Are you coming Lord Geninji. They're not going to be out here long," said Makato.

"Really now? Well if such is the case," shrugged Geninji following.

KAGOME looked at the others on the roof leave confused and turned back to Sesshomaru. He only smiled and put the Tokijin back in its sheath. "Put away your weapon and follow this Sesshomaru."

"We're done with training already?" asked Kagome confused.

"Heh, of course not. There are other ways to train besides just the body," he then stopped and turned to her, "When the time comes, this Sesshomaru will be sure that your body gets the proper exercise for other training."

Kagome blushed, "What other training," she gulped not liking how that came off.

Sesshomaru then turned back around, how he enjoyed toying with her mind. "Soothe your mind at rest human, it is nothing you have yet to concern yourself with. Shield away your weapon and follow this Sesshomaru. We will be doing another excersize where it will not be required."

Kagome hesitated not exactly trusting him. Sesshomaru turned to her and gave a smug smile, "As your instructor, do know. I'm not asking you to follow me, but as Lord and Prince of this castle, that was an order." He then walked off and Kagome blushed, she put her weapon down but she refused to get rid of it and kind of lingered far behind a bit. They walked back to the castle in silence and went inside. Kagome looked around, all of her friends were hard at work. Including Arielle and Symphony who walked past her moving vases.

"Um, Sesshomaru where are we going," asked Kagome.

"Keep follow and you will see," he said.

Kagome looked at him a bit skeptic as they climbed up the staircase going through different room until eventually, Kagome began to recognize the area. They were in the Northern wing of the castle. Sesshomaru then stopped at a double case door.

Kagome froze in shock, "No way. Why are we here?"

Sesshomaru opened the door and inside was the ballroom they had danced in. The windows were open showing off the balcony and without answering her he went inside. Kagome looked around and ran inside. The floors were polished and music was playing. Hiding behind the wall were Nardisia, Makato, and Geninji.

"Why did we do this again?" asked Nardisia.

Makato shrugged, "He asked me too."

"Ah, so he's taking my advise," said Geninji. He then looked around, "come now. We must be gone, you two aren't excused from your duties to that extent."

"Aye my lord," the girls said in unison bowing and they all walked away.

Sesshomaru walked into the middle of the ballroom and stopped, Kagome stopping abruptly. She didn't even know how to react or what was going on. How was listening to music training? Sesshomaru then turned to her and got in a rest position.

"What? You want to waltz? Now?" Kagome said thrown off.

"This Sesshomaru warned you to put away your weapon," said Sesshomaru calmly.

"But this isn't training at all I thought we would do something else and-!" but Sesshomaru quickly grabbed her, she dropping the Artimis Bow which disappeared on its on accord. And he pulled her close to him and grabbed hold around her waiste. Kagome blushed completley embarrassed and was rendered speechless as he looked down at her gazing deep into her eyes.

"Human, you must learn to trust me. This will be training. Take a look of where you are. This Sesshomaru does not think that you understand the significance of where you are," he said gently.

Kagome looked around confused, "But-"

"Try not to say anything," he cut off, "Human. You are pushing yourself way too hard. For the past month. And in the end, you will break down and you will not be able to protect anything. Isn't that what your orgin of what you're fighting for reigns?" Kagome frowned and Sesshomaru from comfort put his head on top of hers and she gasped. What the heck was going on with him, "It will all settle and come in due time. Increased strength cannot be rushed. In the mean time, this will be the last of our training for today. It will be something you can relax too."

"But what um...exactly kind of training is this?" she questioned nervously.

Sesshomaru lifted his head from her and began moving his feet, Kagome quickly followed his movements and then he answered her, "I will train you in the mind."

"The mind?" Kagome questioned following and catching on to his lead.

"There is no use in training you to protect yourself if you are not familiar with where you are with how things go. Remember, you asked that you would not learn such things along the way. Even Kodoichi has gotten to you with the UDGR," he said.

Kagome remained silent, so that's what this was really all about. Kagome smiled comforting, "Please don't let Lord Kodoichi bother you." He looked at her, "You don't have to tell me anything. It's not like he showed you up or anything. It's fine."

Sesshomaru smiled and spun her stretching her out, then pulled her back to her and they continued dancing in circles, "Aquired information is my job. You are human, under my crest."

"But weren't you going to have Jaken do it," asked Kagome.

"I am more fit," he smiled smuggly, "Allow me to give you a run down on this world you're in and what to expect. Please keep up."

Kagome pouted, "Whatever."

Sesshomaru's face then turned serious as he began,"This whole area of Japan, is split into four sections mainly. North, South, East, and West. It was found and dominated by the four powerful demons that took over the territory. As you are aware, one of them is the Inu-which goes down my family line," Sesshomaru nodded to the wall and Kagome gasped to see a painting of four animals. A large dog, a large lion, a large goat, and a bear. Off the side were four other smaller animals, a duck, a deer, a rabbit, and a pig. Kagome looked in awe remembering what Aridon had said about looking at the design of the house closely to see that they all told a story. And in common what it all had was about family history. She couldn't beleive, she was right.

Sesshomaru continued, "The Inu was one of them who dominated the Western regions. The Raion which are the lions-dominated the Northern Domain. The Kuma-the bear, dominated the Eastern Domain, and the Yagi-the goat domated the southern Domain. Together, they are the main government force of the UDGR. They maintain the transactions and piece among the land between humans and demons. Not that they favor humans at all. It is mostly so that the demons in the regions do not get out of hand on over eatting food, file out the issues between the demons, or that no one fights over the lands. That kind of thing. They are also law enforcers, there are rules here like anywhere else. Strict ones. Depending on what crimes are done they settle out the punishment. The UDGR consists of the elderly, for me, it is my great great grandsire. Usually, it is the grandfather of the family who is apart of the UDGR, had my father not been so foolish he would have happily retired there while I took over the throne. For a creature of royalty like me, my job is to maintain and do the backround dirty work that the UDGR cannot do. But we all still must answer to them by some way or another. Me, and others who's blood line are from the Four Domains-hold that responsibility. Here, it is all about heirarchy. The Four Domains hold both political and physical power. That is why we as offspring are so important."

Kagome looked in awe, she never knew, it was all very intresting. Now everything Kodoichi had told her earlier made sense. She then frowned, "Sesshomaru. Not to bring up bad memories," she asked while dancing, "But...your father and what he did. Did they disown him? Like, is it forbidden for demons to mate with humans."

Sesshomaru stared at her in deep thought for a moment and Kagome blushed embarrassed wishing she'd never asked the question. He then stretched her out to look at her and replied, "Your status is badly looked down upon if you do. Your children will be foul. Other demons look down on others who are not royal who mate with humans. But that is their buisness. However," he pulled Kagome to him, "Here in the demon world, when you are of royal blood especially from the Four Domains...-It is forbidden."

Kagome looked in shock, she don't know what happened, but if felt like something pulled in her heart. They stared at one another for a moment and Kagome then answered, "He risked alot."

"He did. He was a fool for it too," he said, "commoner demons would have been able to. But royal blood such as me or Kodoichi. We aren't allowed to do such things. Actually, if demon lords wanted to even have sexual activity for fun, humans aren't to be used for that much either. They do not want any mistakes or offspring going anywhere because they would be considered royal. Demons never had a problem with it, because they did not like humans anyway. It was my father who changed everything. So many traditions of laws and rules that's conitnued for hundresds of generations just to be unsettled now."

They then began to dance again, "Defying the UDGR, could get one targeted or killed. The demon society shuns you and it is made harder for you and your country to survive."

"Sounds tough," said Kagome, "So if that's the case the demon lords of every domain and region must present who they will mate with to the UDGR for their approval."

Sesshomaru chuckled, "You would think that is the case but it is not. They do not get involved in our choices as long as they are not human. They look to us to make the judgement ourselves. They will also however, get involved if a lord remains single for too long. That is when they will pressure you and send many to you themselves. Here offspring are important and valuable, because it shows who will take over."

"Oh I see, so what about those other animals over there," pointed out Kagome to the duck, deer, rabbit, and pig.

"Ah, those are the lords of the dynasty regions, they are under someone like this Sesshomaru. It goes into an area of the Central dynasty, the Northwest and east dynasty, the Southwest and south east dynasty, and the eastwestern dynasty," he explained.

"Wow, they hold two parts?" asked Kagome in question as they danced.

"Territory wise yes, but it breaks down furthor. You don't need to know much about that, this is just the main things. First the Central region, which is the daughter of who you were in a confrontation with during the Inaugeration..."

"That still wasn't my fault," argued Kagome.

"Never blamed you," chuckled Sesshomaru lightly, "Anyways there's the Ahiru-duck whose dynasty is the central region. And then there's the Northern west and east region under the dynasty of the Shika-deer. The Southern dynasties belong to the Buta-pig, and the eastern dynasty region is the Usagi clan-rabbit. Their system is pretty much set up as the UDGR as well. Here, status and dominace matter here. There are politcal assets, wars, and everyone must report. Respect is greatly natured and everyone is called through surnames and you will know that through power and sometimes status. In the village we went to on our last mission I was refered to as a "lord" while their leaders were referred to as "Master." This is because I hold both a much higher rank and status. Since my presence is not there however, because they are the highest in power there when I am not around, it is "lord," until I come there otherwise. Had Inuyasha been around and visited here, even though he carries our father's royal blood, his sir name is "Master" because of his human birth mother and he is a half breed."

Kagome frowned, "That's wrong."

"That's how things are here, nothing is too fair. Everyone here is refined, politics, parties, and mingling to know your allies. Even the western region has allies and enemies as well, and there are huge issues, political and enviornmental that are discussed," he explained.

"Man are they advanced for their time!" thought Kagome impressed not knowing what else much to say.

"The main game is to keep everything at a balance so that there won't be much calamity. With demons, and their short-tempers, that is never easy. Good always balances out with evil, it is the way here. And you will meet different personalities too. But yes, as I'm pretty sure you've learned humans are low of the low. Because I am making you my Alpha, you must be prepared to suffer this type of discrimination and even skeptisism in your abilities. Your power and your example, even your leadership will shut them up when you show your talent otherwise."

"Wait Alpha?" Kagome said confused, "As in the leader?"

Sesshomaru spun her kneeling her down and picked her back up spinning her and then continued to lead, "Yes but not exactly. I am the Head Alpha, my position controls everything, even in war. You are the Alpha meaning," he spun her out and then brought her back to him, "If there is ever a time I am absent or away-you have the command."

Kagome blushed, "When did this happen? Why would you even give me a position like that, shouldn't that be Makato's position?"

"Makato is my Omega. If you are absent she takes full command. She also assists you. I found such appropriate seeing how well you two get along. Your battle skills are at par, and you work well with region affairs I have seen for myself. Do not panic, I am sure you can fill the job description part well," he said confidently.

"But I'm human, won't that make you look bad?" she said panicked.

"It will for a short coming. However, I know your skills, and as Master Umasue and Master Frey said-they could understand why I had you with me. You're power will speak for itself, creature's questioning will not bother me because I am well aware of your skills and abilities," he said.

Kagome blushed embarrassed and her mark started to shock her. Sesshomaru noticed it but said nothing else about it and spun her to a stop. "And that is pretty much the basics I will cover. There is plenty more, but this is enough for today."

Kagome scratched her head, "Yeah that was alot. Uum..." Sesshomaru looked at her quizzically, "I have one more question that may need to get explained."

"What?" he asked raising one of his eyebrows.

"Your mother." Sesshomaru's face turned grim, "I know its a sensitive subject and I'm sorry. I realize you and Inuyasha both had two different mothers. I only asked because of Kodoichi. Everyone's talking about mating and investment and I don't know what that means. I remember Lord Umasue talking about lover-mates or something like that. Is there a wedding ceremony how does that work? How did your mother feel about your dad and Inuyasha's mom?"

Sesshomaru just looked at her blinking and she blushed. She then sighed turning around, "Never mind I really do talk too much that was wrong of me." She quickly ran to the double door and touched the handle until she heard an echo.

An echo of one word that came from Sesshomaru, "Betrayed."

Kagome stopped startled that he even answered and she turned around, his eyes were sad and filled with betrayl too. Mostly that of disappointment and bitterness. Sesshomaru then looked at Kagome and tilted his head to the side and said, "That incident made creatures hate humans even more. To this day I'm sure that my mother hates humans to the core."

Kagome looked at him and turned back to the door and spoke compassionately, "Are you able to tell me about it?"

"Keh," he then turned around and looked back at the cieling. "You want to know about my father, my mother, and Inuyasha's mother along with mating? Then I will tell you what I know, but I am not my father to tell the story. I will tell you the story perhaps some other time. However you mentioned mates and lover-mates. I will tell you the seriousness of those things and how it links to my father, my mother, and Inuyasha's human mother."

Kagome frowned and she turned back around. The way he said human, rolled off as being quite cold and she stood and began to listen to Sesshomaru's story.

"Every demon lord or demoness must be able to find a mate. Every creature at least once has a fling, but the way you mate depends on culture and the kind of demon you are. Because my father is a dog demon of course it is in our blood that we play around. However, once we grasp onto something, we are extremely loyal. For us, mating is very binding. Some can have more than one mate, but in my line. We cannot. Males are the pursers here, perhaps they are at first lovers. But when both are ready to commit yet are unsure they become lover-mates. In your human world it's consider the fiance, before a marriage."

"So do you guys have wedding ceremonies? And wait I'm still confused, I usually thought when you used the term with "mating" with someone it usually required...um-you know-" Kagome blushed and couldn't look him in the face. Sesshomaru stifled a chuckle and then noticed. He felt so relaxed with her. And he never laughed as much in one day before. It seemed so different. Kagome looked up at him confused at his dazed look. "Are you okay?" He looked at her and nodded.

"A mate is deeper than just sex. You asked about weddings. We do not have those however we do have a ceremony in a later event to recognize the Lord/Lady and their "known" mate," he explained.

"So how does one become someone's mate?" asked Kagome still lost.

"In order to mate with someone it has to work both ways first off. If there is competition to gain a mate which can happen between two or more females and two or more males for that creature's commitment. There is usually a competition until the goal of whoever they seek as their mate chooses them. Usually it is solved by two things. Either by battle or if the creature does have a preference for a lord or demoness in specific. In other words, if they loved them," restated Sesshomaru.

"Creatures can love here," Kagome said shocked.

"Heh, of course they can," Sesshomaru scoffed almost insulted, "A mate is equal to a human marriage. We are beasts but not everyone seeks to mate with a creature just to produce the strongest offspring. It is not always that way. King InuTaisho and Queen InuKimi-my mother. They were the strongest mates in all the four domains and together they were a powerful compatibility."

Kagome flinched, so he was finally going to talk about his parents. She frowned a bit seeing a bit of hurt in his eyes. It hadn't occured to her then but she did notice as of late, espeacially before now today. Sesshomaru seemed to glow. And he didn't seem nowhere near as standoffish or unapproachable as before. She wondered what caused it but whatever it was. She then smiled, she was happy to see him that way. It made him look good. The mark began to spark a bit but didn't shock her. Sesshomaru stopped dancing with her for a second and touched her mark. She blushed high red and then she got electricuited and stepped away from him.

"I'm fine," she said embarrassed. "Continue. So if she was the Queen they were mated already right? But Inuyasha's mother. Didn't you say the Inu clan could only have one mate? What happened?"

Sesshomaru looked away from her and chuckled sarcastically, "When my foolish father decided to be with that human intimately. Did you know, that my mother was the first one to know?" Kagome looked at him confused, "Allow me to explain how a mating works. While there is sexual intercourse involved when one is in their orgasm, you bite your fangs into a spot. It could be the neck, the shoulder, the leg. Anywhere. And your family's crescent appears on them," he pointed at the moon on his forehead, "your mate recieves some of your powers and a piece of you. And you must suck their blood to recieve a piece of her or him. It is then then your mate must get you to your highest point of sexual satisphaction and they too must bite into you as well tasting your blood. A mark will be left. Its almost our version of wedding rings in a marriage."

"Sounds kind of twisted and brutal to me," Kagome said blushing creeped out. It sounded a bit brutal but kind of intresting. She then blushed, why was she thinking like that.

"What are you thinking?" questioned Sesshomaru confused about the look on her face.

"Nothing! Go on. But wait so if that's the case what does that have to do with Lady InuKimi knowing Lord InuTaisho stepped out on her. I thought you said the Inu clans were loyal because of the dog ancestor blood coursing through you?"

"In general they are. Once you are mated with, the sex kind of consemates that and you're shielded around one another's scent that only the two of you could love. Any other demon that tries to approach them or steal them away, it works as a repellant. Usually demons don't want to touch anything that's been mated with. Mates are close but its for the reason that they can feel each other."

"Feel each other?" Kagome was confused and Sesshomaru walked over to the balcony. Kagome shrugged and followed him.

"The mating bonds you to each other. If the feeling or emotion is strong enough, you can know when your mate is happy. If they are sad, or in danger. If they are in pain, emotional or not. It works that way on both sides. Sometimes you can even use your bond to be able to find where your mate is."

Kagome frowned and looked outside understanding, "Queen InuKimi was the first to know because...she felt when he did it... didn't she?"

Sesshomaru nodded, "Yes. Its true that through the mating bond you can also feel your mates pleasure and desire. Originally and genetically, that was the purpose in the strength of the bond. To always care and protect your mate, and to ensure pleasure can satisphy both parties in order to stop one from stepping out on them."

"But I don't get it. You said there was a scent that kept-"

"That kept other demons or demoness away..." he cut off.

Kagome face turned stunned understanding, "And she was a human."

"Correct. Having an intimate relationship with the human was one thing. But my mother felt pain and nearly died because while he chose his path by being that deeply involved with the human. He mated with her," Sesshomaru spoke bitterly and his aura became dark and he turned away from Kagome. "There can only be one mate. Nothing can break it accept for mating with another. They no longer had that bond anymore because it was with someone else. When I saw my mother I seen the condition of her mate mark. It was burned and fleshy, and took alot out of her. I slightly remember the day she had left the castle because she couldn't stay there anymore. Her face was upset but her eyes told me how sad she had been."

"Wow, so personality wise it sounds like Sesshomaru's a lot like his mother but looks like his dad," thought Kagome listening.

"She said she would never return because my father had found someone he actually loved. And she left. The specific story between my father, my mother, and Inuyasha's human mother is another story. But one I can hardly really narrarate because I was about 11 when it happened and didn't really understand what was going on until I found out he was with a human. My mother had pretty much left the demon world by then or wondered off by herself. She was disgusted and betrayed. My late father embarrassed her in front of the whole demon political community."

"With how high status is here, I'm shocked she didn't do anything crazy from that humilation," said Kagome sadly. "She must have been so hurt to have seen or feel such a thing in action if she really did love him. That story alone...is a tragedy."

The wind blew and Sesshomaru said nothing. Feeling his sadness Kagome hesitated approaching him not knowing what else to say or do. No wonder such conversation was avoided in the castle. It then had dawned down on Kagome, she didn't think so much Sesshomaru hated humans all that much either. He was bitter. Really, really bitter. It was his mother, who hated humans-and with good reason. She figured likely, perhaps InuTaisho and InuKimi got together for some type of politcal reason and perhaps later InuKimi fell in love with InuTaisho eventually on her own. But that's not necessarily how the King felt. She only made that hypothesis remembering what Sesshomaru had said his mother told him before she left, "She said she would never return because my father had found someone he actually loved."

Sesshomaru gripped his fist hard, his bangs covering his face. He then sat up, "That's all for today. If you want to understand about the investment thing. It's much appropriate if your favorite servants told you than I. I would find such conversation between you and I quite uncomfortable." He then began to walk off and slowly without Kagome even knowing it a tear fell from her eye into the palm of her hand. She then gripped her hand with the tear inside and ran towards hi. Sesshomaru then felt an impact slam against him and he froze snapping out of it in shock. Kagome had hugged him from behind and then hugged tighter for a stronger embrace.

"I'm sorry," she mumbled, her bangs covering her eyes. His eyes then grew gentle and his tense shoulders then relaxed completely and his bangs once again covered his face. "I can't speak for your father, or Inuyasha's mother. Or any other human and it may not help any other demons but you're the only one I really know right now that matters. For whatever...for existing. For your mother, for blemishing your family's status. It won't change the fact that you hate humans or even hate me," she spilled out wholeheartedly, "But I'm still...so so so sorry! It's not pity, it's not compassion for the apology. It's real. It can't change but I am still sorry it had to be that way. No one ever thought about how you would be affected. You can say it didn't concern you but I know it affected you and I know it hurt. And as a human I apologize that it was a human who reigned terror to affect your life like this."

Sesshomaru remained quiet as he melted in her embrace. What manner of human was she? In general he would be ready to rip her into pieces. Throw her away from him. But with her...he just wanted to remain with her. His forehead cringed, he wasn't really falling for her was he? But he felt strange somehow, different. Like telling her all of these things made the bitterness and the hurt ease off alot of his internal pain. Internal pain that he never knew until talking to her, that he had. Why was it that she was the only one who affected him like that. He had never even went into that deep specifics about his family with his own point of view to anyone. Not even Kodoichi. His throat felt dry and he felt like bile was in his stomach as he held himself back. He tried to fight his mind but what he really wanted to do was to kiss her...no, he would refuse. Refuse to let his father's curse win, and to render futhor embarrassment for his family line that he's working so hard to still recover the status of. He remembered clearly almost allowing himself to slip before with the new moon, which he still deamed a fluke. But he would be damned if he let it happen again and this time he was fully conscious and aware. Doing so would mean he really was beginning to fall in love with this human that he had to admit, was beginning to become important.

He slowly removed her hands and without turning to her said, "Your comfort...is appreciated," he then walked away from her and then stopped and without looking at her said, "thank you."

Kagome then grew confused pushing her tears from her cheeks, "I'm sorry that was too much I don't know what came over me. That was really out of line. It won't happen again."

"Kagome," he called lightly. Kagome flinched and began to blush. He never called her by her name unless it was really serious. How he said her name...it was wierd, he hadn't spoken to her like that since the night of the New Moon, so was that not a fluke? And just as it was then, emotion was heavy on it, she was able to notice it easily. And she never heard him sound that way except when he said her name. "This Sesshomaru will be away for some important buisness for about two months to navigate some of the areas in the Western region that's not too far but far away enough from the castle."

"Two months?" Kagome questioned shocked.

"Yes. This Sesshomaru needs to handle political affairs. You are my Alpha, and so you are indeed required to come with me," he said lightly.

"Huh?" Kagome said whiping the tears from her face. "When?"

"Later on today. It seems earlier today, this Sesshomaru has gotten quiet an emergency call from a human village. You may be able to calm them easier than this Sesshomaru can. Accompaning us will be Makato, Symphony, and Nardisia. Geninji, Geisha, Arielle, and Jaken will remain here to look after the castle," he directed.

"But are you sure? What about Aridon and Taikin?" asked Kagome worried.

"They are after you, human. This Sesshomaru does not think they will go after the castle but merely come after us. And I'd rather be away from my port kingdom when they attack than here. Repeating what happened when Kodochi visited, we do not want to repeat such close causes," he said.

Kagome nodded. "I understand. Oh by the way," Kagome ran in front of him shocking him and she smiled genuinly, "The past really sucks and I understand it comes back to you. But even though its hard. Try to let it go. Free yourself. You seemed so relaxed today, a country can't run with the past lingering over their prince to make him always bitter and upset. Today was the first time I seen you so relaxed and free from that. Try not to think about it and it'll remain that way. You'll have enough stress doing what's required of you as a Royal demon from the main Four Domains since you carry a bloodline of the founding Inu that's dominating the Western Lands. No need to let the unneccassary stress you out. I mean it matters but its the past. What can we do about it now."

Sesshomaru looked at her stunned absorbing what she said. And he could not help but release a genuine relieved smile, "This Sesshomaru will be sure to consider that in the future." Kagome smiled back at him and he blushed a little, his eyes embarrasingly averting from hers, "Prepare yourself. We will be heading out quite soon."

She nodded and turned away, "This training session really was relaxing andI did learn alot. You were right, I guess I was overdoing myself too. Thanks for telling me about your family," she then reached the door opening it and turned back to him with a reassuring nod, "I know I have far away to go. But if even a tiny bit. I at least understand you a little more. And that's what makes me happy." She then walked off closing the door behind her.

Sesshomaru was in shock in a daze for a moment until he heard a loud applause.

Sesshomaru flinched growling, "Are you here to taunt me?"

Revealing coming down the staircase was Geninji, "My that girl has changed you. Are you in love with her yet?"

"Bite me," he growled frustrated walking off.

"My, my, such a rude comment. I would have expected such attitude from Master Inuyasha but from you...I think not," he laughed.

"When you're annoyed you say anything," he said opening the door Kagome had just left, leaving. Geninji followed close behind.

"If you really want to know about Queen InuKimi, King InuTaisho, and Lady Izaiyo I would have explained much of it to you if the trueth is what you seek. Surely, you do not think your father wasn't aware of what he risked by choosing the human did you? And Lady Izaiyo was not as much of a bad guy in this situation than what other creatures think," frowned Geninji.

"So this Sesshomaru's mother was?" questioned Sesshomaru coldly continuing his pace.

"In the political world its harsh. And I believe with this situtation everything (used when lumping humans and demons together when singluar or plural) but your father was who was innocent," he explained.

"Then my bitterness goes towards the right person. And now this curse is placed on this Sesshomaru to force his father's point of view on him. This Sesshomaru does not wish to share it," he said coldly.

Geninji sighed rubbing his forehead, he felt like he was dealing with a rebel indenial teen, "I understand. But it is a prophecy moreso than a curse. And a prophecy doesn't work that way. No one can force you to love what you don't want to. If you're feeling anything and is indenial about it...it's happening because you're letting it on your own. Rather you accept that fact is up to you. But the truth is the truth. Do not use this prophecy of your father as an excuse for your disgust in the feelings you're gaining for Kagome. I hardly doubt that's fair."

Sesshomaru then stopped and looked at the cieling. No. He refused. He refused to be what his father was. He then looked back ahead thinking. "This Sesshomaru will see you when he returns Geninji." He then walked off leaving Geninji standing there and he shook his head.

"Scary," said a gentle voice.

"Ah, Arielle," Geninji said turning around, "How long have you been there?"

Arielle came out of the corner with Symphony, "Long enough."

"Yeah we were moving the vases," nodded Symphony. "And what was that all about? What do you mean by scary?" She looked at Arielle confused.

"Well, I was here around the time when the King InuTaisho and Lady Izaiyo situation started. I was new then. And the way I'm looking at it. Time is repeating itself. He's acting just like his father did before he accepted the fact that Izaiyo really was in his heart," said Arielle.

"Really? Lord Geninji?" asked Symphony.

"He is," sighed Geninji annoyed, "you'll never be able to tell him that though. However, with the curse nearly sealing off his powers. He doesn't have time to go through the same processes his father did. His pride will eat him alive if he doesn't learn to let go. Ah well, you two are dismissed."

"Aye my lord," they both nodded walking off. They then walked towards the Western entrance conversing until they heard Kagome's voice shriek.

"WHAAAAAAAT!"

Symphony and Arielle looked at each other and shrugged then opened Kagome's room. Makato, Nardisia, and Geisha stood there laughing and when they looked at Kagome her face was strawberry red. One would think steam was coming out of both her ears.

"That's too much," mumbled Kagome in shock, "No wonder he said it would be uncomfortable if me and him talked about it. Its uncomfortable now!"

"What's going on," asked Arielle suspiciously walking in with Symphony.

"Oh, hey you guys. Done with your shifts?" laughed Makato.

"You ready to go Symphony?" asked Nardisa still laughing.

"Almost. Uuum, what's going on here?" asked Symphony just as confused.

Geisha laughed, "She'll be fine. She's just in a state of embarassment shock."

Kagome then covered herself shaking and Arielle went over to her looking at them suspiciously, "What did you tell her?"

"What she wanted to know really," shrugged Nardisia, "We're actually innocent bystandards for once."

"It's true we did," shrugged Geisha.

"What's that suppossed to mean though?" asked Symphony.

Makato laughed, "She asked us about investment and the meaning of it, and... we told her."

"It's digusting!" snapped Kagome shaking. Symphony and Arielle then looked at each other and started to laugh. "That's not funny! How dare they talk about something like that in front of me like I was an animal on a farm or something. I don't care if they are lords, to be so blunt and talk about something like that in front of me, I feel so violated!"

"Oh come on Kagome, I understand but its really not that bad," comforted Arielle chuckling.

"Oh yeah, then you tell me what part of that whole thing isn't bad? Are you crazy," Kagome said blushing harder.

"Well you see..." Arielle then thought for a moment and then sighed, "Okay so it is kind of sick but still."

"As young as Kagome is she has plenty to invest, you're worth more being so young. Older women have less investment. Because of how old you are, you're quite ripe," teased Nardisia.

"Shut up!" snapped Kagome, "That's not funny. I was wondering with those demons at the inauguration was talking about."

"Just so I'm clear doesn't an investment pretty much measure a female's fertility range and how fertile they are in depth? And probably how good their...never mind that is digusting," Symphony said rubbing her head nervously.

"See, there's nothing NOT bad about it!" said Kagome standing up defensively.

"Oh come on, be a woman. You're totally over reacting," chuckled Geisha.

"I don't like to be talked about like that especially in front of my face! Like they were talking about how nice the weather is outside or something!"

The girls laughed.

"If she's acting out like this, you're probably not going to be able to tell her evaluations and scores for investments are you?" laughed Nardisia.

"I don't need to know that!" blushed Kagome.

"Well welcome to the royal portion of the demon world. You'll hear about investments all the time. Especially since Lord Kodoichi is persuing you. It comes with the careful choosing of mating," informed Makato as though she was a scholar on the subject.

"But don't feel bad Kagome," said Geisha, "they have it for guys too. With females when they measure the fertility rate and other things (ahem) its called an Endowment instead of an investment."

Kagome blushed, "How ironic that the demoness would would call it that for measuring a demon lord's fertility rate among other things."

"Someone's thinking a little perverted," teased Nardisia.

"With this conversation and reproduction parts its not like a person has a choice," she mumbled defensively, "I feel like my brain just got turned out."

The girls laughed and Arielle spoke, "Endowments with guys measures their fertility, ejaculation speed, length, thick-" Geisha and Symphony quickly covered her mouth as Kagome looked dazed until she fainted.

"Man, I didn't think she'd take it that hard, we're all grown and over age here," said Arielle when they let up.

"You're such a freak, really..." mumbled Makato in the tone of she couldn't believe Arielle said that.

"Yeah, I think she got the point already you didn't have to do specifics," said Nardisia, "Poor thing. Now is the line that's crossed where I actually do feel bad."

"Kagome," Symphony said worriedly faning her, "I feel like we just told a child there was no such thing as holidays. You slashed her innocence."

"Hey don't make me feel guilty, its not like she didn't have any ideas!" blushed Arielle embarrassed.

"It still could have been kept to yourself though Ari," laughed Nardisia.

"I think that's enough for today," chuckled Makato nervously.

"Yeah she's just out if it poor thing," said Symphony still faning her heavily.

"We shouldn't keep that much, if she's going to fullfill the prophecy she at least needs to be prepared that in that area size is increasingly significant than any human males. They're much bigger and thicker!" she screamed.

"Don't talk about the prophecy around her!" snapped Geisha.

"And calm down with that Arielle geese, you're getting too excited. It makes a demon servant wonder," said Makato suspiciously.

"Look she's unconscious anyway. And besides its better to be up front with everything before she gets in a situation where she finds out the hard way. If anything I'm trying to help her," Arielle defended crossing her arms.

"What a weak justification," said Nardisia skeptical.

"And what's that suppossed to mean!" said Arielle taking offense.

"It just sounds kind of bad coming from you of all people Arielle," said Symphony in a "no offense" tone.

Kagome then began to stir slowly sitting up rubbing her head, "Ow. I think that was just a little bit too much for me."

"You'll live. We won't talk about it again. I didn't know it'd blow away your mind like that. You really are innocent," chuckled Makato.

"It's not like I'm not aware of things like that but I don't tend to think about that of stuff either," said Kagome blushing.

"So you'd be the one oblivious if someone was to try to sneak a sexual pass at you, you wouldn't even recognize it," smiled Makato darkly.

Kagome blushed not saying anything for a moment, "Wh-why would you ask me something like that?"

Makato shrugged, "I just asked. There's nothing wrong with it. Stay innocent," Makato then walked past her. Kagome was embarrassed. Did she know? Was the things she saw in Sesshomaru with those moments she felt strange, really sexual passes he was making at her? But it was impossible, he was a demon. He rootedly disliked humans and could never see her in that way. She was lucky by just nearly getting allyship and the trust that she had from him. It was impossible. It was impossible, wasn't it? She did admit he was treating her a bit differently but she felt it was only because she had finally gotten enough respect from him otherwise.

Reading her thought Makato replied, "Kagome," the human snapped out of it. "Remember. No matter what, you are still a woman first." Everyone looked confused and Kagome was in awe. Makato then smiled, "Don't linger too long about it, we're departing out of here momentarily. Lord Sesshomaru is already awaiting for us probably."

"Oh dear, that's right I still have to get ready," Symphony said running out.

Kagome stood up and nodded and the others then left the room. She walked out onto the balcony as the wind blew into her hair. That's right they would be gone for two months across the western domain. After Inuyasha and the others died. She never really thought she'd travel again. She thought that she'd always be stuck against the castle walls but she was finally leaving. It had been a really long time. It all seem very memorable for her, nostalgic. It really did seem like she was repeating her past. Her heart then clenched. If it was a repeat, -she then looked out into the afternoon horizon-what would become of her and Sesshomaru? Would he be a stand in for Inuyasha? I mean, the major difference was that she was hated for being Kikyo's reincarnation but he had loved Kikyo. With Sesshomaru, she really had no ties. He just really dislike humans period, the gender didn't matter. But he seemed to be warming up to her, trusting her. He actually seemed like a normal person. Like he hadn't been happy in a long time, a weird glow. She combed her hair back. Maybe she was totally overthinking everything and they were just becoming closer friends and he was fighting that fact because she was human. It was the only thing that really held up and made sense to her at this point. No-she smiled-she didn't have to worry about there being anything between her and Sesshomaru. That would be impossible. Especially for what she learned about the UDGR and his mother.

"I'm sure he'll find a good Princess demoness in another region to mate with," she said. But then she grew confused. She didn't sound so enthusiastic about that, and when she said it, it was with a frown. She shook it off, "that was kind of weird." When she looked into the sky she gasped to see in the sky King InuTaisho looking back at her smiling. "K-King InuTaisho..."

He then smiled at her, "Save my son Kagome. Just like I told you before."

Kagome remembered the moment perfectly. It was when she had went into the Eastern wing when she wasn't suppossed to. But she had assumed the whole thing was a dream. She had touched the Tenseiga and King InuTaisho told her the same thing back then too. She only remembered seeing Sesshomaru as a child being electricuted and remember a funny prophecy or something being whsipered to her. What was it? Something about a kiss and heart of gold and cold and taming a prince? None of it really made sense to her, she couldn't catch it all it went so fast. Seeing this now and being told what he had said then, she now knew it wasn't a dream.

"But...King InuTaisho. What can I do I'm just a human."

King InuTaisho smiled, "I cannot tell you specifically how. But for you...being a human is a great advantage. If ever faced with temptation do not ever change that about yourself. As a human you see things that demons fail to see. You are a great access to Sesshomaru even if he doesn't fully know so yet. For what my son faces, you are the only who can save him. And thus, save this blood line and the whole entire Western Domain."

"Okay no pressure," Kagome said sarcastically, "Anyways why does he need me?"

"After today's affair, did you not see that answer for yourself?" he questioned.

Kagome paused and said nothing remembering her and Sesshomaru's talk about his mom, his dad, and Izaiyo. "I don't really know if I can save him Lord InuTaisho. I can't do anything except be there when he needs me," she said sadly. "I'm powerless."

"Do not underestimate yourself. You do not know it yet, but more than anyone in the castle, you carry the most influence over Sesshomaru. You are his heir of reasoning. And as hard headed as he is, and it will not be easy...because of you, he will listen to you," said King InuTaisho.

"No offense but you do realize this is Sesshomaru we're talking about and not your other son right?" said Kagome skeptically.

King InuTaisho just laughed, "You have noticed the change for yourself have you not? You are a woman first Lady Kagome, species no longer matter. Remember that as the number one thing as your try to sift and uncover the truth. Never drop the impossible Lady Kagome. Because when you figure that all things probable is not the case. Then you must consider the impossible. And Sesshomaru has less than a year to be helped."

"How? Tell me what to do!" Kagome begged. King InuTaisho smiled and turned away disappearing, "Wait! King InuTaisho! Come back, tell me how!" she reached out to him but his figure was gone.

The wind blew and cherry blossoms flowed around her as his voice then whispered to her, "Just do what you've done today as you've always done. Open his heart. Only you can do it. If you wish to save him...then open his heart."

The wind stopped blowing around her and she picked up the cherry blossom petals around her, and looked back out to the sky, "What does it all mean. I don't know what exactly is going on. But something about Sesshomaru, this castle and then Aridon hating me. There's too much that don't make sense that I don't know. And someone with my ignorance to it all, I can tell somehow I'm the soul key involved."

There was a light knock on the door and when Kagome turned around there stood Rin. "Kagome Lord Sesshomaru and the others are waiting for you. Are you ready!" she said chipperly.

Kagome smiled. Well there was at least one person she could count on that was normal. She went and picked Rin up,"Yeah lets go shall we." Kagome grabbed her old bookbag with her things inside and then put the Artimis Bow behind her back.

"Will you really need all that stuff?" asked Rin as Kagome and she left the room going down stairs.

"Well I was used to traveling before this so I think this will probably cover it mostly," Kagome then walked outside. "Rin I'll be away for a while. Are you sure you'll be okay."

"I'll have Lord Geninji, Arielle, Geisha, and plenty of others keeping me company no need to worry. You just focus on helping Lord Sesshomaru!" cheered Rin.

Kagome then frowned, "I see." She was almost positive Rin knew something. It seemed like she was being pushed toward him. She then shook it off. Maybe she was being paranoid. She then smiled, "Well then be good while I'm gone okay."

Rin nodded, "I promise." Kagome smiled and kissed Rin's little forehead combing through her head. "Don't worry 'Mom' I'll be fine."

Kagome laughed blushing, "Alright. I love you Rin." And she had meant it. She cared for Rin as though she were her own child.

Rin blushed and hugged Kagome tightly, "I love you too Kagome. Please be careful while you're gone."

"Will do," said Kagome lightly. As they went to the backyard they seen Ah-Un, Makato, Nardisia, and Symphony.

"Kagome!" called Nardisia waving.

"Yeah girl hurry up come on!" waved Symphony.

Rin jumped out of Kagome's grasp and nodded, "Come back home Kagome."

She then smiled, "I'll be back. And you stay out of trouble."

"Don't worry!" Rin said running back inside the castle.

Kagome then walked over to the girls and looked around, "Hey where's Sesshomaru?"

"Did you really think he was going to wait? He went ahead and told us to be sure to hurry and catch back up," said Nardisia.

"Sorry, I didn't know you were waiting so long," said Kagome.

"You're sure taking alot of stuff," said Symphony noticing.

"She's traveled with Inuyasha before so I'm sure she knew what to take," said Makato knowingly.

"You know, it's not nice reading people's minds," mumbled Kagome frustrated.

"I didn't for once," smiled Makato pointing to her head, "I know you right now. You're like my best friend Kagome. I don't have to rely on such dirty tricks anymore."

Kagome smiled and got on Ah-Un. She then looked at the others quizzically, "Um, can I ask you guys something?"

"What's up?" replied Symphony.

"Are we sure that King InuTaisho is dead?"

The girls looked at her like she was crazy.

"Why would you ask something weird like that? Of course he's dead," said Nardisia.

"Yeah it was quite a tragedy. The body and everything was found," frowned Symphony.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring back bad memories," Kagome said shaking it off.

"Are you okay?" asked Makato perceptively.

Kagome then looked at her, "I think I am. Strange things have happened."

"Do you want to talk about it," asked Nardisa.

"Neh, let's hurry before we make Sesshomaru even more impatient. After you guys told me that it's fine," she smiled. They nodded agreeing with her as Symphony got on Ah-Un behind Kagome and they and Nardisia and Makato flew off.

Kagome then thought. If everything was playing over again, she had a weird feeling that everything in the past dealing with King InuTaisho and his reign over the Western lands, as well as Queen InuKimi and Izaiyo-would soon reveal itself along its travels. Just as the past about Naraku tricking Inuyasha and Kikyo to betraying one another. It seemed like the past always had a way of catching up with people. She then frowned.

"Kagome are you alright," asked Symphony sadly.

"Huh? Oh don't worry about me. It's nothing. So where are we going exactly," asked Kagome.

"Because you weren't there, Sesshomaru didn't really give us instructions on the situations per sae," said Makato.

"Yeah miss Alpha," teased Nardisia sticking her tongue out.

Kagome blushed mumbling, "I guess eventually everyone else had to know that huh."

"Don't be shy, congrats on that by the way," smiled Symphony.

"Anyways, we're going to a village that at this rate, we won't be there until nightfall," Makato explained.

"Should we really be rushing then," asked Nardisia.

"Well he wants us to get there at night on purpose," said Makato.

"Ah, so whatever the problem is its happening at night," figured Symphony.

"That's exactly what it means. The village we're going to is Sakura village."

"Geese really Makato, that almost makes me sad. With such a nice name the village sounds peaceful enough," said Kagome.

"It's a human village. I don't know what's going on specifically though," she said.

"You didn't read Lord Sesshomaru's mind?" asked Nardisia.

"Well unlike you Nardisia, I don't abuse my powers," Makato stuck her tongue out.

"Whatever. There's no use in having mind reading abilities if you can't have a little bit of fun!" reasoned Nardisia.

Symphony chuckled sarcastically, "You are so childish."

Kagome then giggled, "I should just enjoy the time with my friends and traveling with them. Besides this would be more experience on my part. I can't waste it over thinking about the past and stuff. I told Sesshomaru to let his go and look what I'm doing. I should learn to follow my own advice."

They then finally caught up to Sesshomaru who was flying peacefully on his cloud. He turned around seeing Kagome and looked back ahead, his bangs covering his eyes, "Heh."

Kagome looked at him confused, "Geese Kagome what did you do?" asked Symphony.

"I don't know honestly," Kagome said just as puzzled. They continued to ride the sky for three hours as the girls prattled away and laughed telling jokes. As they talked Kagome looked back at Sesshomaru thinking about what his father had told her. "Just do what you've done today as you've always done. Open his heart. Only you can do it. If you wish to save him...then open his heart." She was still confused about what he had meant. Sesshomaru feeling her stare turned and looked at her. Kagome feeling foolish averted her eyes and blushed. Sesshomaru's face remained poker like but he was honestly really confused. He then looked at Makato and nodded and Makato looked over at the others.

"Okay guys we're about to land for a break. Lord Sesshomaru is about to tell us what's going on," said Makato. Everyone nodded and they all followed Sesshomaru down landing onto the ground. The sun was almost going down but it had yet to set. Kagome and Symphony jumped off of Ah-Un and Sesshomaru watched them all surround him.

"We will rest here for the moment," he then turned to Kagome, "human, if you need sustanance there is a river beyond this bank not too far from here. We won't make a last rest stop until another few hours when we arrive in our destination later in the night." Kagome nodded. She was shocked he had her in consideration, but seeing she was in such a high position she suppossed she understood. "Now that we are all here, this is the situation."

He then began to explain, "In Sakura village it appears there are a numerous amount of people whose souls have been snatched from them."

Kagome gasped and stared in shocked. There was no way. Could it have actually been Kikyo? Would she run into her sooner than what she thought?

"Whoa really, a soul thief?" Nardisa said shocked.

"Even for us this is pretty new," said Makato just as shocked.

Kagome frowned and Symphony came behind asking, "Do the humans know the source?"

Sesshomaru then turned to them, "No they don't. All they know is that it happens every night. They've lost twelve people, mostly their females in one week."

Kagome then became irrily silent. It all sounded like signs of Kikyo. What will she do? What if Kikyo was aware of the results of the battle of Naraku which she probably was. Technically Kagome did kill Inuyasha. The kill that she stole from Kikyo that she never expected to steal. Inuyasha's life. And if she knew Kikyo enough she knew, that priestess would come after her for vengeance. She had totally forgot to think about that while traveling. Eventually, what if she did run into her? But she never thought it would happen since she was in the demon world. Women's souls were being stolen to keep her life sustained. It all sounded like the exact same scenario in the village she went to with Inuyasha and the others to discover it was Kikyo. What...what was she going to do if they ever stood to face one another. What would she say. Would the priestess...hate her? Would she want to...kill her?

When she snapped out of it she jumped back to see Sesshomaru holding her chin up at him gazing deep into her eyes. She quickly stepped back breathing from a heart attack from the shock and closeness they had. "What was that for?"

"You are deeply distracted," Sesshomaru stated simply. "Does something about this mission trouble you?"

"Yeah you seem like you've seen a ghost or something," said Symphony concerned.

Kagome frowned turning her head away, "It's nothing. If that's all I'm hungery and I'll go catch something it won't be long." She then quickly walked off until she got out of siting range from them all.

"Makato," called Sesshomaru immediately.

"Apparently she fears she knows who the enemy is since the situation is similar. It relates to her adventures with Inuyasha but she snapped out of it so quick I couldn't finish reading her mind," reported Makato.

"This Sesshomaru sees. For now, leave her be. Is that understood?" Everyone then nodded. "In about a half hour we're taking our leave." He then walked off the opposite direction.

"I'm really starting to worry about her," said Nardisia.

"Yeah but the prince did say to leave her be. But if Kagome thinks she knows who the enemy is shouldn't she tell us?" asked Symphony.

"Well she's hoping whoever it is, that it's not the case. Whoever it is, it puts her in anguish. Sometimes, when emotions are too strong I get kicked out of a person's mind. She felt too much pain and anguish for me to even sift through the rest of her thoughts it was going so fast," said Makato. "I think Kagome has a past too. And like everyone else..."

"It's going to bite her hard in the ass," finished Nardisia laughing.

Symphony gave Nardisa and Makato disgusted looks.

"Well I knew she would finish it off by saying that so why not?" shrugged Makato.

"You're both sick," chuckled Symphony.

Kagome stood at the edge of the bank near the fire she had waiting for her fish to finish cooking. If she faced Kikyo what would happen? Would there be an exchange of words. She had to admit, innocence or no...she had always envied Kikyo for keeping Inuyasha's heart. And there was nothing she would be able to do about it. Would it be right if she took that frustration out on her now since Inuyasha was gone? She then thought about when they were trapped in the cave together how she wouldn't thank her because Kikyo felt she only did it because of Inuyasha. How she was put to the test, to kill her or not, for the selfish thought of her having Inuyasha to herself. And she very well could have.

Thinking about it made her heart grow a bit dark and she got pist. What, what would she do then. Knowing Kikyo she'd probably expect her to do something like that. When your character is being tested, what does one choose when faced with difficult decisions. It amazed Kagome just how difficult life really was since she turned a new age on her birthday. How hard it was, a struggle...to even do the right thing. In yet just how simple it was to do evil.

"Kagome!" called Nardisia snapping Kagome out of her troubling thoughts.

She snapped out of it and turned around to see Makato and Nardisia. Kagome frowned a bit, Makato's face showed complete concern. And that's when she figured...probably without any arguement: She read her mind.

"Kagome Lord Sesshomaru is ready to depart. We should get going," said Makato.

Kagome only nodded and followed them without saying a word.

DEEP in the nashes of the forest was a bright light. When the light dimmed down sitting on a tree revealed a demon in human form. He was gorgeous. He had worn all white. White dress slacks, and slick white shoes. He wore a white vest and the rest revealed his chizzled chest. He had short white hair in an emo stlye where the bangs swung down the left side of his face. His eyes were a demonic green color.

He then smiled at the the dawning sunset and stood up. "Well now. I supposse its nearly meal time already. Human souls always rile up my appetite." He then transformed into a beautiful white horse with a beautiful mane. He had eagle wings, some of his feathers were white, the others were gold. And he had a beautiful dark horn, but it ejected a black aura around it.

"I never miss out on my prey," he bragged. Both his eyes and horn glowed mysteriously and he jumped into the nearing darkness of the sky toward the direction of where Sakura village was and disappeared.

IT WAS dark in the nightfall as Sesshomaru and the others flew across the sky. They were almost in Sakura village. Sesshomaru turned around to see the servants prattling away happily. He was completley amazed just how much demoness in general could talk. And it was probably moreso of meaningless things. Generally he probably would have told them all to shut up and take a break but he felt like being generous today. He then peered at Kagome who hadn't said a word at all since they had left their last resting area which was almost three hours ago. She was sad and looked sick. As bright as she usually is when she's happy, he had to admit unless it was he who was responsible, it felt uncomfortable seeing her like that. Kagome looked out into the sky, her facial expression not changing as the wind combed into her ebony locks. Sesshomaru then noted that the moonlight actually done her justice. She hadn't looked that interesting since their dance in the moonlight at the Inaugeration which he had to admit, he enjoyed and found quite memorable thanks to her. It would have been boring otherse. Plus the fight she had picked with one of the Central Royal dynasties he had to admit, he found amusing but had to remain stern at the time. Thinking about it released a smile. He suddenly wondered if he was always a bit childish like this.

When Kagome looked over she noticed him looking at her and she flinched startled. Noticing his smile she returned it with hesitation and uncertainty. Kagome then layed against Ah-Un's neck and remained quiet. Since he told her what they were dealing with for this next village she hadn't said one word. When he seen they were in the horizon of the village with its bright lights from the candles he turned around.

"Makato, Nardisia," he called. The girls all looked up in alert. Kagome just looked uncomfortable feeling a bit apprehensive. "Fly ahead and alert the villagers of this Sesshomaru's arrival and return back here."

Nardisia and Makato nodded and quickly flew high speed going past Kagome and Sesshomaru. It had thrown Kagome off into shock, she never even knew they could fly so fast. They were almost like bullets.

"Symphony, human," Sesshomaru directed getting the remaining servants attention, "We're landing here and scoping the area to see if we find anything out of line or suspicious before approaching the village."

Sesshomaru then landed in an open bank with Ah-Un coming behind him. He nodded at them and walked in a northwestern direction. Symphony then turned to Kagome, "So which way do you want me to go?"

"Huh?" Kagome said confused, "What do you mean?"

"You're the Alpha Kagome, I can't just go anywhere," said Symphony.

"Oh," Kagome said snapping out of it. "Sorry."

"Are you okay. You've been acting really strange lately," asked Symphony concerned.

Kagome rubbed her head, "Let's just say I've seen better days. Um. Take Ah-Un and go east, I'll be here to check this area so there's at least some exact point where we can all meet up."

"Are you sure you'll be fine. I'm worried about leaving you alone Kagome if you're not completley focused," said Symphony worriedly.

Kagome smiled wearily,"I do understand. But I'll have to be okay so don't worry."

Symphony nodded taking Ah-Un and his leash going the direction she pointed out. She then sighed. If she seen Kikyo at least there'd be privacy and a decent one-on-one battle if one is to occur. Which she hoped was something she didn't have to worry about. She summoned her Artimis Bow into her hand and held on to her chest. There was a little bit of darkness in her heart about the situation. Kagome hated thinking of Kikyo, because she knew these sorts of thoughts always occured in her mind. It always felt as though she had control. A tear then fell from her eyes and she stopped near the flowing river, probably the same one she had caught fish in earlier.

"Why is it that she always wins everything."

Then suddenly, around her everything began to turn gold and cloudy. Kagome snapped out of it looking around as flowers began to grow around her. She looked around in awe confused and stood up. Her Artimis Bow then began to pulse strongly and Kagome looked around confused whiping the tears from her face. She then looked on a hill to see a beautiful white horse with a white unicorn horn. Eagle wings with white and gold feathers. Kagome stood there in sheer shock.

"No way..." she could barely speak as the horse showed off its beauty and slowly approached her until he was inches from her. "A Pegasus?" Her Artimis Bow glowed powerfully as the horse stretched its head out. Its emerald eyes hypnotizing her. Kagome hesitated and grabbed the head stroking and rubbing the horse. She couldn't believe it. The horse then looked at her quizzically and she smiled.

"Its too bad I'm not asleep. My dreams are more fun than reality," she spoke sadly. Pegasus looked at her with interest. "You are so lucky. Stay in dreams. Where anything is possible. Because in this reality. The pain, the memories...it's all real. And not all the time can that be twisted."

Pegasus twitched its ear and moved its wing. Kagome laughed with her head down, "On the contrary." Pegasus then walked around her lifting up one of its wings and embraced her with it. Kagome then smiled, and suddenly to her unknown, her heart began to become darker and she suddenly became depressed. Pegasus looked back at her and slowly she was becoming hypnotized and then suddenly, she was becoming sleepy.

"Kagome!" called a friendly voice slowly approaching. Pegusus turned around glaring and looked back down at the nearly hypnotized human. He then looked her in the eys and his eyes glowed and then suddenly her eyes became blank as he let her go and just flew off. And when he left, the beautiful area that was once around them, had disappeared.

Coming from behind the hill from the bank were Nardisia, Makato, and Symphony with Ah-Un. They had looked down to see Kagome looking out at the river distracted. She was back to normal. The girls exchanged looks with one another and walked down the hill. Kagome then turned around and smiled dispondently.

"Need the company?" suggested Makato.

"Girl you look messed up I'm sorry," said Nardisa shocked to see her in such a depreessed condition.

Kagome shrugged, "I don't know. Something was bothering me but somehow I feel extra tortured and depressed for some reason and I don't really know why."

The girls walked down the bank to her. When they all appraoched Kagome Symphony then spoke, "Did you find anything?"

"It's all clear on my side, you?" asked Kagome.

Symphony nodded, "I didn't see anything too out of the ordinary."

Nardisa then looked next to Kagome and noticed a feather that was half gold half white and picked it up curiously. She then looked back at Kagome and hid the feather in her robe without saying anything.

"Nardisia and I made it to the village. The Lord over the village is expecting us quite soon," said Makato.

"Then I guess we leave when Sesshomaru returns," she moaped putting her head on her knees. "Technically we should all probably go back to where we landed and await Sesshomaru's futhor directions. You guys go ahead and do that. I'll be there momentarily. Makato can just telechantically summon me if he's coming so I won't hold you guys up again waiting for me. I just need to think for a minute."

Nardisia, Ah-Un, and Symphony looked at Makato and she sighed. "As you wish Kagome."

"Thanks you guys," said Kagome pulling out and playing with the grass.

Makato and the others then left, Nardisia thinking about the feather. She had found something suspicious about it.

"I don't feel right just leaving her like that," said Symphony.

"You think I do, we have to trust her. Besides I couldn't just insist, she's a higher rank than I am," said Makato.

"That doesn't matter Makato, its no secret around the castle you're like Kagome's best friend. You know she's not paying attention to that kind of stuff!"

"Don't worry about it," Nardisa said interrupting Symphony. Symphony looked at her appalled, "Whatever is bothering her we may or may not find out later on. But as one of Kagome's teachers I've worked with her, and I assure you that she's a tough cookie, she doesn't need to be babied."

Symphony frowned and Nardisia pulled out the feather showing them.

"Hey what do you have there?" asked Makato recieving it from her.

She shrugged, "I don't know. It was at the bank next to Kagome."

Makato then spun the feather, "It may mean something later. We don't know where to go from it so I say unless things start to make sense do we mention this to Lord Sesshomaru."

The girls all nodded and approaching the spot where they landed Sesshomaru came out of the forest and they met eachother and bowed.

"Are they prepared Makato?" asked Sesshomaru.

"Aye my lord. They are expecting us quite soon. It is starting to get quite late already," reported Makato, "And the area on the outskirts of the village has checked out. Although we found something a bit suspicious we do not think it yet poses a threat or concern."

"Ah yes, the feather you mentioned earlier," said Sesshomaru twitching his ear. Makato nodded and pulled it out. Sesshomaru took the feather observing it and put it in the sleeve of his kimono, "Where is the human."

"She wanted to be alone, she's over the hill on the bank by the river," mumbled Makato sadly.

All the girls tensed their shoulders expecting to be chastized but instead Sesshomaru frowned and turned to them, "This Sesshomaru will deal with this nonesense himself. Go to the village. We will both join you momentarily."

The girls shoulders then relaxed in shock and they all nodded flying off without arguement. As if any of them had the spirit Kagome did to question his commands, not that they'd get away with it as she had. They definately knew better.

KAGOME laid across the grass looking into the sky in a daze. Goodness she felt terrible. More than usual, she didn't know what was wrong with her. Green eyes flashed in her mind and she quickly sat up holding her head shaking it. She felt like something was tampered with. She was thinking about Inuyasha and the possiblity of running into Kikyo and...that was it. The rest was blank. She felt like there was a gap somewhere. But she felt aweful, depressed to the clear point where she felt like throwing up. She rubbed her mind and then spoke weakily, "I'm fine. I didn't mean for you to wait."

Coming behind her and now standing next to her was Sesshomaru, "You're getting good with sensing auras around demons. Quite impressive."

He then sat besides her and Kagome looked at him confused, "What are you doing?"

"This has to stop," he then turned to her, "What ails you so?"

"Nothing just something about my past I'm remembering," she said quickly standing up.

As quickly as she stood up Sesshomaru had quickly grabbed her pulling her back down next to him, "Again human. You are a poor liar. You aren't usually upset unless I am the one causing it. It distracts me that you're like this without me being a factor and it makes me grow concern." Kagome looked at him shocked. You know as of late, he was talking to her in first person alot. "We cannot have two distracted leaders for something as serious as stolen souls. That is a fate that I personally find worser than death."

Kagome spoke coldly, her bangs covering her face, "It doesn't matter. It doesn't concern you."

But instead of getting insulted Sesshomaru let out a light chuckle of irony and Kagome became even more confused, "I suppose I deserved that. It was what I've always told you is it not? However the tables has turned. Why wouldn't you think it'd matter."

"It's human stuff I don't think you'd care to listen to nor would you understand," mumbled Kagome.

"I admit I'm a cold demon but understanding situations of humans is something I had to grow up to do. Otherwise we wouldn't be in this village now. And you are not me. If it took half the night so that you could smile and be back to normal," he looked up at the stars, "I'd stay here and listen to you all day."

Kagome blinked, she couldn't believe he said that and thought about what his father said about her influence over him. Maybe it was true. "Why?"

"Heh, I'm indebted to you. You've heard my unnessary story that didn't involve you. And in my time of vulnerability you decided to be that strength. You are under that same vulnerability. It is only right that I give you my strength now," he explained.

Kagome blushed a bit and her bangs covered her face, "You don't have to feel so obligated you know."

"This is not obligation," he said, he then looked at her and smiled teasingly, "You need a friend. I don't know what it is that gave you this idea that you were some hot shot that could do it all. But your stance is breaking. You're letting everyone see your expressions visually instead of hiding them like you used to where it was beyond anyone's notice. You can't put up that fake facade around me."

Kagome looked at him in awe. It was the exact words she told him word from word on the way to the White-Tailed Fox village after Symphony's vision. He had actually listened to her. "I was under the impression human, that friends confided in one another. I trusted you enough to confide in you and you listened without abandoning me or being judgemental. 'There's probably not much I can do about it, but at least let me carry a portion of your burden if not half. Isn't that what loyalty is about? Not as your master, but as your ally and friend.' Isn't that what you told me not too long ago? Well, I am telling you this same thing offering the same reassurance."

Kagome was totally thrown off. How could she defend against that?, "And you're aware that it's a human who you're now claiming as a friend right?"

Sesshomaru put an arm on his knee lifting it up, "I am well aware."

Kagome looked at him, only King InuTaisho's words crossing her mind about opening his heart. She couldn't believe he was acting this was way. She was speechless...and she could tell he was serious and he looked at her. Tears freely fell from her eyes suddenly and his face tone hardened in concern.

"I'm...I'm afraid..." she spoke speechless. She was barely coherent in even saying that and Sesshomaru furrowed his eyebrows confused. "This mission. I may know whose responsible and if its who I think it is. Then I'm not sure if I can handle it because I may have to face a past that until now, I never knew I had."

"I see. I can concure. Being faced with your past is not something easy," he said lightly.

Kagome chuckled sarcastically, "It's funny. Symphony told me that if people could rewrite their past it'd be a glamourus fairytale. And she said you never know what are bad things or what's in the past that's deemed "the past" until your future comes when everyone else may get affected. I never thought something like that would come to me so soon." She held a fist against her head from the frustration and thought.

It was quiet between them for a moment as Sesshomaru watched her cry. He was torn to see her that way, he wanted to hold her like she did him. But doing such a thing would reap dangerous. They were allies and friends and that's all he'd give in to admit, so he made sure to keep his distance even though he was sitting right next to her. He looked up into the sky. "What is your past? Who exactly do you think is behind this whole thing?"

Kagome was quiet for a moment and spoke lightly, "Kikyo."

"Ah, the priestess Inuyasha was infatuated with that was tricked into betraying him thanks to Naraku. An old witch bought her back to life somewhat recently and she's made of soil and requires souls to survive am I correct?"

Kagome laughed a little, "Nothing gets past you does it?"

Sesshomaru smiled cockily, "Rare things do. I hear things here and there."

"I see," said Kagome a bit comforted.

"Why do you fear her? Inuyasha is dead. You are free from her are you not?" asked Sesshomaru confused.

Kagome then frowned, "Kikyo has always wanted to kill Inuyasha with her own hands. Even though she knew it was Naraku's fault of what happened 54 years ago. Her hatred for Inuyasha burned her to her grave into coming back to life. She had even tried to drag him down to hell with her at one point."

"What stopped that?" Sesshomaru scoffed sounding amused actually liking the idea.

"I saved him when I called out to him," Kagome spoke crisply looking at him.

This time it was Sesshomaru who frowned, "Yet, he still loved her after that."

Kagome's voice shuddered and then spoke bitterly, her heart growing darker, "He did. It's not like I could help that."

Somehow hearing her voice sound like that, Sesshomaru sounded disappointed but he didn't know by what exactly. Yet he felt excitement at the thought of Inuyasha going to hell with Kikyo. Oh well, he was dead now. He then looked at Kagome's eyes and noticed the hurt in her eyes. Suddenly, he went back to what he said back at the night of the new moon. "That is not your judgement; perhaps this Sesshomaru did get off on the wrong way that weren't necessarily the right or best ways. Especially since I had a foreshadow of leadership. However, as I am aware at least my mates were reachable and I did not have to compete with a woman from the past that was already dead and made from clay." Suddenly he felt bad. Maybe he really did cross the line. His bangs then covered his face and it all settled in. He completely understood the whole situation without her even going there, and he pitied her, anger boiling towards Inuyasha. But he had to be sure, he had to test his understanding of the anylitical side of his part to be sure he understood it.

"And throughout all of that and being there...supporting him, you still continued to love him anyway despite Kikyo's presence in his heart," he stated, not questioned. And suddenly he felt hurt saying the next sentence, "And you still do now even though he's gone."

Kagome paused a moment before she answered and resentfully smiled wirily, "I can't help that either. I think the three of us, for it to have been a love triangle. I called it the fools circle."

"I tend to agree," mumbled Sesshomaru dryly becoming a bit bitter about how the whole situation was himself. "But how does this affect now?"

"Kikyo wanted to kill Inuyasha. He didn't die exactly in the hands of Naraku," Sesshomaru looked at her quizzically, and Kagome could barely say her next sentence. "I killed him."

For the first time, Sesshomaru's emotions freely got away from him escaping his poker face and he looked at her completely shocked and Kagome lifted up the Artmist Bow. "With this weapon. It was the only way. He was holding down Naraku. And if I hadn't done it...then Inuyasha would have died and surely I would have too. And the world would have been in much pain and tragedy due to Naraku's sick games. And we both couldn't bare to see that happening."

Sesshomaru then felt a feeling he never thought he'd ever feel. But looking at her and the situation he couldn't help it. He felt for once, sorry. And he felt deep compassion.

Kagome then told him what happened.

KAGOME'S FLASHBACK:

"Inuyasha this is no time for stubbornness," said Kagome trying to sit him back down.

"Eh, shut up," he said standing up weakly stubborn.

"Inuyasha, you need to lye down," pleaded Kagome.

"And what, let Naraku take you out and have his way with you, hell no!" snapped Inuyasha. Kagome gasped shocked and said nothing, but Inuyasha looked up at the storm as the winds and the rain picked up. He smiled, yet frowned, and looked back at her. "Kagome listen. I hate to say this but-"

"No!"

"But-"

"NO!"

"Would you shut up and listen to what I gotta say damn it!"

"No! You're gonna tell me I'm gonna be the only one to escape alive aren't you?"

Inuyasha gasped at her intuitiveness and said nothing as he frowned sadly, slowly nodding. And she burst into tears. It was true.

"Don't tell me that, please Inuyasha. Without you, what am I supposed to do," cried Kagome, tears falling from her cheeks. Inuyasha struggled trying to stay strong as he brought himself together, he couldn't stand to see Kagome cry.

"Kagome," he said taking her hands looking at her passionately. "Listen. The poison Naraku injected into me with that sword of his, will have me to live for about four hours tops. I'll die anyway. Lets face facts here. We've both come here to destroy Naraku, all of us, me, you, Shippou, Sango, Miroku, and Kirara. You can't let all those lives go unavenged at this point. This is it, and it may be the last chance we even get this close. You have to finish it. So, you need to pick up the jewel. I'll hold Naraku down, and then you let the arrow go," explained Inuyasha.

"But you'll never survive the attack!" argued Kagome tearfully.

"Do you rather Naraku get away with taking all those lives and kill even more people that we love and care about, or just one life whose already damned for death anyway, think about priorities here!" snapped Inuyasha.

More tears filled Kagome's face. She could not imagine loosing her Inuyasha, much less being the one to take him out. Inuyasha frowned whipping the tears from her eyes.

"I know its hard Kagome. You can do it. I believe in you. And I have faith in your abilities that you can. I didn't promise you that it wasn't gonna be easy. But it does have to be done. I'm sorry you have to go through this and that you have to do it. But it is necessary."

"Enough!" cried out Naraku interrupting their moment as thunder clashed behind him in fury. He quickly picked up another sword that was closer to him on the ground destroying the Hirakots charging towards them.

"I told you I'd never let you touch her. Iron Reever Soul Stealer!" he cried attacking him at full charge.

As the battle continued, Kagome took out the Sacred Jewel in Naraku's sword. Immediately, the jewel was purified. About time Kagome looked up, Inuyasha had Naraku by the throat.

"Kagome now!" cried out Inuyasha.

Kagome cried as her hand drew past her bow, the arrow forming, as every last memory and adventures of her and Inuyasha played through her head.

"I'm sorry," she whispered in dispair letting loose the arrow.

The attack spun diagonally, the energy mass being powered by her emotions as it hit both Naraku and Inuyasha, the purification burning both of them. When the attack dissipated, Naraku transformed into a purple gaseous form, floating into the air. The rain pouring harder as lightening clashed into the sky.

"Inuyasha!" cried Kagome in despair running to his motionless body.

Inuyasha laid with smoke emitted from him, on top of other dead demons as flames and purple shards flowed into the air. Naraku was dead, and the Sacred Jewel of Four Souls, was finally destroyed.

KAGOME'S FLASHBACK OVER

Tears flowed from Kagome evenly and for once, Sesshomaru frowned from the hurt she felt. He couldn't stand seeing her like this. As usual and unsurprising, his brother had been a fool. And unfortunately for her, she had to be a victim of his brother's foolishness and mistakes. He had never thought to ask her about the battle with Naraku when he found her in the condition that he did. And then once she arrived he took away her freedom. She really was left with nothing, when he came to her...he stripped her of the last thing she had left. Guilt had washed over him, as if back then her explaining the situation would have changed his mind. He knew how he was back then, the two of them had clashed powerfully back then too. He probably wouldn't have gave less than a damn. But he saw his change, and he know knew her, that was what had changed everything. She had added and gave him so much, and all he had done was take away from her.

Kagome had bawled herself between her knees crying wholeheartedly. Sesshomaru stayed quiet for the moment. So much had dawned on him. He would never forget this night. And actually this day, for it was a day where he and Kagome got to know eachother deep from the roots of where they came from. And it was then it settled that they began to understand each other. And he now comprehended her feelings. Why she had her reason to fight and worked hard to become stronger. She had blamed herself for that battle and what happened to Inuyasha and her comrades this whole time. And still continuing with life, she had yet to grieve over their deaths, but mostly her lost love... his brother Inuyasha.

A love that was never properly returned to her even upon his death after she'd showed him so much loyalty and dedication...support even. Human or not he admitedly noted: she was a real woman. A pretty damn good one too...better than most demoness royals that was available for him to choose on the market that sucked for pickings. And for that much, did he grow disgust towards his brother. And only one thought crossed his mind, "Such a waste." He wouldn't tell her that. But that was really how it felt. It was all a waste for her...her feelings for Inuyasha. A feeling Inuyasha could either not return, or not fully return. He wasn't sure, he hadn't really grasped the whole situation enough to know if he loved her back. But being as he was looking at it from a war stance he assumed worse case scario. He had to admit it pist him off that he had to so he did: At minimum halfway at least, Inuyasha had to have loved her back. The human was smart, if she truly thought she'd had a chance, there was no way she'd waste her time like that by competeing against a clearly stronger opposition.

He reached his hand over to her and placed it on top of her head and her tears began to slow when she looked up at him.

"I understand now," he spoke gently. He rested his head on top of his hand which was right on top of her head, "Despite the battle you cannot think that the whole thing of you being weak at that time is your fault. My brother made some precarious mistakes and ill thought decisions on his own in the end that resulted in his own demise."

He then began to stroke through her hair soothing and massaging her scalp, then suddenly, the darkness and tensity she once felt that began to cover Kagome's heart slowed. And the aura around her heart began to turn bright and white. Sesshomaru was shocked with how well mannered and kept her hair was, it was extremely soft that he was actually beginning to enjoy playing with her hair. She then frowned even though she now felt calm, "I wish everyone could see it the way you do. Kikyo won't. She will probably have ill feelings toward me for stealing a kill I didn't want."

"And in doing so to fill her satisfaction of killing Inuyasha since you stole her kill, she'd seek your life instead, correct?"

Kagome said nothing but nodded. "I don't know what I would do if I ran into her if it is her this time."

Sesshomaru sighed and lifted off her head, "If that is the case, then face your past. And if she tries to kill you, then defend yourself."

"If?" questioned Kagome

Sesshomaru pulled out the feather showing Kagome and spun it, "Eventually. Like so many of us have, you will need to face your past and resolve it to a close so that it can remain in the past so that you can live your future. This was found in the area, and unless the priestess has a pet, there is nothing to concern yourself with to fill your heart with troubles."

Kagome looked at the feather and slowly touched it, something about it looked familiar, but she got nothing. She then looked up at Sesshomaru and it was then then, that their gazes locked into one anothers. They remained that way for a long moment and Sesshomaru then blinked snapping out of it. Kagome snapped out of it too and coughed from the awkwardness.

"Thank you," she murmered embarassed.

"Can you focus now?" he asked professionally.

"Yeah. I'll be alright and I'm not saying that this time to be saying that I do mean it. I'll be fine," she said as they both stood up at the same time.

"Very well," nodded Sesshomaru, "We need to catch up with the others, they are already in Sakura Village awaiting our arrival."

"Sorry," mumbled Kagome scratching her head.

"Just don't turn it into a habit," he smiled smugly

Kagome released a small laugh and Sesshomaru looked at her again and she stopped, blushing. "What?"

Clouds formed under him, "You're usually as calm and happy as you are now. It's relaxing and a relief to see. You cannot concentrate being the Alpha if you're allowing the past to make you bitter and upset. If you don't think of the past you can remain this relaxed without letting the past weigh you down," he then smiled cockily, "The past really sucks and I understand it comes back to you. But even though its hard, try to let it go. Free yourself. No need to let the unneccassary stress you out. I mean it matters but its the past. What can we do about it now?"

Kagome held back almost dropping her mouth, "Okay I get it. I get. Take my own advice I got it."

"Restating your words back at you for that reason is not my intention human I assure you," he said as Kagome got on the cloud holding on securlily to the side of both arms. He looked back at her, "I think that they are important dogma every human and demon should hear when they forget and stray off of the basic foundations of life."

Kagome blushed and Sesshomaru then added, "You are quite foolish, clumsy, and for all the things I can do, you can probably do 60% of what I can successfully." Kagome pouted, now he was turning back into the Sesshomaru she sometimes got along with, "But for the 40% you are capable of achieving much more successful than even I have to admit that surpasses my own abilities. You are persistant, strong, loyal, care about your friends and doing what is good and best for others, and real. Stratistic, a descent badass fighter and stern, leadership, and beyond that...wise for both the human and demon world before even learning the unknown at such a young age. I supposse, that traveling with that half demon brother of mine was to your advantage, if he was even a factor at all."

Kagome blushed, "Um, thanks for the compliment, ...if that's what that was suppossed to be."

"Take it as you see fit. My brother was foolish. The woman he sought and loved from the past no longer exists in the priestess that's living off of souls now. You were there the whole time to support him. He was foolish for not choosing you either way. For putting up with what you did up to his end being a woman. Something that goes beyond the difference in species, to be in such a situation. You're too damn good." Sesshomaru then sped off and Kagome screamed from the quick and unexpected jerk quickly grabbing hold of his one arm and looked up at him in awe.

Sesshomaru kept ahead, the last thing he said about Inuyasha being foolish not choosing her was a dead mistake. He had meant to keep that to himself. He then realized he probably had to watch himself. Since spilling his emotions about his family and listening to her, was beginning to make it too easy for him to talk to her privately without having any restrains. And that fact scared him.

Kagome set in awe, everything about the conversation between her and InuTaisho all dawned on her. And what dawned on her was something else, yet she didn't know what it was. But overall she knew one the was right, her and InuTaisho's conversation from earlier.

When they arrived, the clouds discentegrated and they landed safely on the ground. Sesshomaru then looked over at her and Kagome gasped taking her arms from under him. "Sorry."

He then looked ahead walking up to the castle, it was almost built like a pentagon. When they went inside, for Kagome it was almost the same as the usual castles Miroku would sneak to get them in. She laughed recalling many of those memories. That was right, it was not only Inuyasha. But Miroku, Sango, Shippo, and Kirara too. The designs were gorgeous with vases and gold lining. Blinds and mats. But Kagome couldn't help it, she was quite bored with it, compared to Sesshomaru's most close to being modern castle...this was nothing.

When they approached the main room the humans were at first in shock to see a human was behind him. Sesshomaru then gave them a death stare and the human soldiers then quickly bowed opening the door. Opening the door were beautiful lit lamps with gold everywhere. At the stand was a young prince who awaited at the end. On both sides were soldiers as well as gold dragons at its sides. There too were beautiful blinds, and the wood floor was nicely waxed. At the side were Makato, Nardisa, and Symphony. Leading from the door up to him was a long red velvet/cotton red carpet.

The Lord ontop of the stand wore a black hat and had a mustache with a long dark green kimono showing off nice intricate designs of his royalty. Next to him was the monk from earlier wearing an gold outfit and was bald. When the doors opened to show Sesshomaru walking in with Kagome behind. The girls looked up and smiled. Kagome was smiling and full of energy, her aura shined powerfully off of her and they all sighed in relief.

The Lord of the castle's face showed shock that he had a human behind him, and was more shock at the thought of the idea that he was late because of this human as much as he was known to hate humans. The monk that was leaned against the wall was also in shock, "Interesting," the monk mumbled.

The lord of the castle stood up and walked up to meet Sesshomaru halfway, and immedately, everyone bowed to one another. The Monk then met and stood side to side by the Lord and Makato stood next to Kagome while the other two filed out behind the both of them.

"Welcome Lord Sesshomaru, I do hope your trip was comfortable," he said politley, "Thank you for coming on such an emergency."

"It was well," he said dully with an uninterested tone. Kagome chuckled nervously to herself, geeze he really didn't like humans. He must have found stuff like this a real drag.

The Lord held back the offense and continued, "Allow the monk to explain the situation."

"Such is not neccessary. You sent this Sesshomaru a full report on the situation already. What this Sesshomaru needs to know is if there has been any new developments since you sent it to him," he dismissed.

"As I figured," smiled the Monk interrupting the rising tension, "Allow me to introduce myself your lordship. I am Deixi (prounciation:Dey-shi). Please follow me and see the situation for yourself."

The monk turned to the human lord and he nodded his approval, "Fine, take care of it. I leave the rest in your hands."

The monk nodded and the Lord went back to his seat and resentfully sat down. Holding back his attitude Sesshomaru closed his eyes to maintain his patience and followed the monk out of the main hall. They walked outside the castle porch and stopped to a dark rooom. When he opened it Kagome screamed a yelp grabbing on to Makato's shoulder.

Deixi then turned around, "Worry not Alpha, I understand it's quite a disturbing view."

"What are you doing keeping all these bodies here, are you some kind of freak!" snapped Kagome.

"Huh, never knew you were so inexperienced with so many dead bodies at one time," said Makato dumfounded.

"They're souless," defended Kagome, "I've seen slaughtered bodies not souless."

"Human restrain your behavior," warned Sesshomaru simply.

"Sorry," she pouted.

Inside the room lying on mats on both sides were many of the 12 bodies that lyed dead and souless. Their bodies were gray, their hair froze and twisted, almost lifeless. Some of their eyes were closed showing anguish, others were opened eyed and they had no iris, just completley white and their faces were all twisted and lifeless. The monk then took them to the most recent one who had died.

"She was the latest one," said Deixi.

Kagome just shook her head from compassion of the site and Sesshomaru looked at her, "Look familiar?"

Kagome shook her head, "She never did anything like this to them when she did it. It'd had been much more humane and serene...not that taking souls is ever relaxing."

Sesshomaru then smiled relieved for her and Kagome smiled back too. Now she could completley focus without worrying. "Very well."

Nardisa and the others all looked confused and just shrugged.

Nardisa then snuck up to Makato, "Is it me or did those two atmosphere change?"

"I don't know maybe, I will tell you this much it does look like they did get a little closer. It's definately recent though," hissed Makato back.

Symphony just smiled, proud of the fact.

"Is there a problem?" asked Deixi.

"My apologies, we had an idea on the enemy and were mistaken," Sesshomaru then took out the feather. "Seeing as you're the most competent human on the premises, tell me. Did you make anything out of these bodies while keeping them for observation?"

"If they are asleep when it happens, it is very likley that they are being attacked in their dreams. By who or what is beyond me," replied Deixi shrugging.

"Would this help," Sesshomaru gave him the feather and he examined it, "By my allies accompanying me was it found on the outskirts of the village as we arrived. And I know that it is not by coincidence."

Deixi examined it and sighed relieved, "Well. I did some further research and after loking at this feather I at least feel a bit confident about it. Though there is room for error." He'd spoken the last part of his sentence more to himself than to them.

"Explain yourself," said Sesshomaru subtly.

"Aye my lord, but its much easier explained if I showed you. Follow me," he then continued walking and there was a curtain. It was lightly lit with candles. When they walked inside they all gasped. There was a buddah statue in the front holding a candle. Around the room burned candles and also around the room were burning insence of flowers and honey. There was a hint of herbs Kagome could tell from the smell. In the middle of the floor was a waxy material that formed a circle that held a pentagon. Kagome couldn't tell what the smooshy wax stuff was made out of, but it was there. Around the circle were wooden staffs hanging the only thing Kagome could recognize: Dream catchers.

"I'm sorry to speak out of line but what on earth are dream catchers doing here?" asked Nardisa.

"Quiet!" hushed Makato.

Deixi went and picked up a book next to the buddah and he bowed saying a quick prayer and ran back to them, "I've been doing research and I wanted to see if you or your consorts," he then looked at Makato and Kagome, "Would mind being bait to see what exactly we're dealing with."

"Is there a point," asked Sesshomaru dryly. Skeptisim filled his voice, even though he had retained his poker face of indifference.

"It sounds a bit silly, but the most I came up with by my journal dealing with dreams. Apparently everyone is being attacked in their world formulated from their dreams where the enemy can freely control their reality. The only person known to freely enter dreams to do something like that is, " he then showed them the book.

Without looking at it, Sypmphony then answered, "Pegasus."

Sesshomaru and the others looked at the book and Kagome held her head. Sesshomaru picked up the feather and compared. It was a perfect match. "Hmm, this Sesshomaru sees."

"Sesshomaru?" requested Makato.

"You are free, speak," he said turning to her.

"Exuse me monk, but I was aware that Pegasus in the legends was always a good guy. We're dealing with somone of an immortal greek god of dreams almost," said Makato.

"Ah, no need to worry Omega, I'm not completely saying that we're dealing with Pegasus specifcally, but maybe a demon who has the same powers as the Pegasus in the legends is all," explained Deixi.

"That seems probable," said Nardisa looking at Symphony and she nodded.

Kagome shrugged, "I don't think the idea is so stupid anymore. It's worth a shot."

"If we allow you to do this what would you expect," asked Sesshomaru.

"Well I'm not sure but I'm assuming you must kill the enemy or enemies if more than one, twice. Both the dream part of them, and then killing them in reality if we assume these are the given conditions," nodded Deixi.

Symphony shivered, "Man I have to admit. I'm a bit uncomfortable going into something like this without really knowing the enemy and what all they can do."

"That's the most exciting part," perked Nardisa. Makato rolled her eyes.

"Trust me, I've been in this type of situation too many times. You get used to it, it's never a thrill," comforted Kagome.

Sesshomaru smiled and Deixi looked at him interested, he was definately different. Royal wise in the demon world, he knew they were all out of order. He was strict at first, but now he was being flexible, and for Sesshomaru, he thought he would never see the day.

THEY all laid down in different areas of the circle. First Sesshomaru, on his right was Kagome. On his left was Makato. On the bottom of the pentagon were Symphony and Nardisia. The monk then got some ashes and sprinkled it all over them.

"Now before you enter the dream world, you must be careful. Remember, you are going into the enemy's territory. And in the dream world of dreams, 'anything' quite literally is possible. Remember, your mind and conscious is there. You can not physcially get hurt, Pegasus, or whoever our enemy is, however... can. Even if it doesn't seem that way. However heed what I will tell you next," the monk's face then turned grim when he paused and he put his arms behind his back, "If in the dream world you really think you're being hurt, that you're being killed, or tortured. It will become a reality in this world. Almost like a virus killing you from the inside first until it gets to the outside. All I can advise from my research about the dream world is for all of you to please no matter what you may find when you enter there, that you stick to the truth. That is all you can do, and in reality...that is the only thing you can rely on to fight the dream distractions back with. In the dream world everything will be fabricated as real as though you are reliving it...and I assure you that you are not. Do not hesistate, do not get distracted in the play of things in that world because that will be your down fall the moment you do. Because you will then become apart of it and your dream will turn into his churning nighmare. You do not want to get into the enemy's web making you vulnerable for him to do anything to you."

"That's comforting," Nardisia mumbled sarcastically.

"Be nice for once," hissed Symphony.

"So is there anything else. How does this dream thing work?" asked Kagome.

"I can't tell you. This is my first time doing this, everything EXCEPT what I just warned is theoretcial. I only have research to back up the rest of this though. I don't even know if it'll pull off, much less with five people. The dream world is vast, it connecxts everyone in the world's dreams that's linked together. Going there instead of remainng in your own dream is dangerous within itself. Just the fact that someone has the power to control it and go in and out as they pass strike a dangerously potent enemy. The dream world is so vast you may not even be together when you get there. You'll likely be separated. And so then you'll have to use the links of the circle that'll connect to you guy's dreams to find each other," he explained.

"So we'll be able to enter one another's dreams?" asked Sesshomaru.

"That's what these dream catchers are for, yes. Not only to monitor what's going on in the dreams but to serve as links. If you're that concerned about staying together when you enter the dream world you can try, but the only thing I think 'may' work at best is by holding one another's hands."

Everyone looked at one another and grabbed each others hands. A spark hit Kagome when she held Sesshomaru's hand. And she twitched under his touch.

"Alpha are you well?" asked Deixi.

"She is fine, your concern is not necessary," he stated simply.

Getting the point he backed off. "Okay everyone. Just relax and take in the insence around the room and you will flow very easily into the dream world. Go to sleep. Breathe in deepily."

They all did as they were told as the monk sat in front of the circle and began to chant. Kagome's head suddenly began to flow and cloud as the cieling she looked at began to spin as her eyelids then closed just that quick. It was dark and she felt like she couldn't breathe. Like she was off the ground and the whole world around her was spinning. Everythng turned a dark bloody red around her and it seemed like everything was a dimension. The monk from the outside watch as the dream catchers came on from the becoming cloudy purple clouds that showed in the empty cricle, or once empty...to show that everyone was successfully deepily asleep.

THE DREAM WORLD*************************************************************

KAGOME

When Kagome landed on the ground she looked around. The air was misty and the grass didn't even seem real. The clouds were on the bottom and yellow. There was an old tree leaned over hear giving her shade and it was complete slience besides the errie wind blowing about. She was completley alone just as the monk had predicted. "Oh great." She then summoned her Artimis Bow and it came, "Well at least everything didn't fail."

Her weapon then glowed furiously and she then turned around and gasped. There the white horse stood in front of her. "I don't believe it!"

"Welcome, priestess. I have been waiting for you," he said telechanetcally wagging his tail back and forth.

"What the heck! Now I remember. I have seen you before!"

"Why, it was only you who called me. I was attracted to such a dark heart. But it seems it has gotten lighter. There is no need for that. Dark hearts are what makes souls delicious," he said soothingly.

"You're sick, so you are responsible for taking these innocent people's souls for the past week! Come out of that ridiculus form and show me who you really are!" demanded Kagome.

"Show you? Who I am? Oh but priestess you should already know who I am," he then transformed into his demon form and Kagome blushed at how good he looked and he smiled flirtatiously at her. "I am just as you named me earleir, Pegasus."

She was in shock, she was speechless, "Impossible."

"Oh but it isn't. I have to say though. You're actually the first victim I've had to see my true form this way without dying first. I congratulate you, unfortunately," he then immediately tranformed back into the horse, "I must keep this form seeing that it is the best and most easiest to travel through dreams. Otherwise I cannot stay here. So excuse the rudeness I'm sure you understand."

"I'll just take you out then," Kagome pointed her glowing Artimis Bow at him.

"Ah, Artimis, it's been so long. How have you faired?"

"You know her?" Kagome was thrown off in shock that he was talking ot her weapon as she had. The immortal goddess of the forest and earth, Artimis.

"Of course, I'm Pegasus remember?"

"You're a liar!"

"Talk to your weapon and you'll find how much of what I'm saying is a bluff. Well, you willingly came to me before with a dark heart until we were rudely interrupted. Hmm," he then looked around in a certain directions, as though he had a radar then he said, "I see your other friends are also here in the dream world. I've always enjoyed company for lunch. I supposse I'll torture your hearts into darkness before having your souls engulfed in my tummy. In the mean time I will just feed on the other villagers souls by torturing them in their dreams. After all, I can tell with just the five of you, you're going to be a problem."

"The heck if I'll let you!" Kagome shot a powerful pink arrow and it turned ino butterflies.

Kagome gasped shocked.

"Did you forget that this was a dream," shrugged Pegasus, she then thought she seen a little smile across the horse's mouth insulting her. "Even you little human, don't you remember? Didn't even you say that staying in dreams that anything is possible and that reality indeed can not be twisted as easily. Well just as you'd stated correctly, in here I control everything. Now, here's something that will keep you and your friends busy for the time being while I enjoy my meals. Allow me to show my hospitality in your last welcome and graves inside the dream world."

He then flew off and Kagome gasped.

"Hey, get back here!" she tried to shoot again but this time it disappeared. "What? "

She screamed frustrated. He got away. But she had wondered, what did he mean he would take care of her and her friends by turning their hearts dark?

The dream she was in then began to shake unmaterializing around her for a moment changing the scene into something else. When she looked around to see the soil she noticed that all completely was soaked in blood. She stepped back and gasped to see Sango's and the other's bodies dead. Kagome shot into complete shock.

"No," she mumbled.

Coming from the horizon then was Naraku, "I knew after killing the rest of those fools you would be easier."

Kagome shook her head, "No. This isn't real. Inuyasha and I killed you!" screamed Kagome.

If it's not real then tell me, he stepped aside to see Inuyasha's lifeless body, "Why is he lying here dead!"

"Inuyasha!" she cried.

Naraku smiled flippanlty speaking, "That is the reality right? He's dead. No one can save you now. You were too weak, and it's all your fault."

"It's not I tried!" defended Kagome.

"You tried but it looks like it wasn't enough now was it!" he then charged at her.

Tears came from Kagome's eyes and she fell to the ground holding her head looking at Sango's and Miroku's body on one side and then on the other side Shippo's and Kirara.

Naraku then stabbed her in the stomach on the side and she fell limp onto the ground.

"Now join your friends in death!" laughed Naraku sinisterly.

"No," mumbled Kagome weaily, her vision getting blurry. "NOOOOO!"

MAKATO

Makato was in a grassy area in the forest and it was night time. She had recognized the area quite well, it was the outer grounds of the castle. "Okie doke," she said pulling out her sword looking around. She then heard tortured screams. "Kagome?" she questioned.

Makato quickly ran as fast as she could and stopped to see the west tower in awe. She then looked into the sky to see a black crow new moon.

"I know that little bastard didn't," mumbled Makato shakily. She breathed in and out, "Remember its just a dream. It's not real, it's not real, its not real..." she then took a deep breath and nodded and went inside.

"MAKATO!" the voice screamed tortured.

Makato quickly hurried up the stairs and slammed opened the top door and she dropped her mouth.

In front of her, was the little innocent younger version of Aridon she had remembered. And there, was Sesshomaru in his heat state raping her mercilessly without holding back. Blood from her lost virginity everywhere.

"MAKATO!" she cried out in distraught.

"Shut up!" he growled continuing harshly.

Makato turned her head away almost pewking, "It's not real," she mumbled, hot tears coming out of her eyes, "it's not real."

"MAKATO!"

"This Sesshomaru said silence!" he then slapped her hard across the face until she went numb and unconscious, "You will pay for your foolishness." Sesshomaru then threw her against the wall cracking it.

Makato's bangs covered her eyes and her heart began to become dark. "Dream or not. I'd let it pass me in the real world, but in the dream worl where I have a chance...I refuse to let it happen twice when I'm here and can do something about now. So stay off of MY little sister!" she then charged angrily and with full hatred at Sesshomaru, her heart pulsing dangerously as she lifted her sword into the air.

NARDISIA

Nardisia looked around to see she was off in a canyon where the soil was purple. "She looked around, this seems a bit familiar."

It was then that she seen a male peacock version of herself and a female peacock and Nardisa went into shock, "No, please don't let me relive this again."

The woman then ran into her,"Nardisia baby what are you doing we have to go and hide in the mountains they're coming!"

"Mom no!" shouted Nardisia. "Don't go ito the mountains they're expecting us there. Please you have to trust me."

"We don't have time for this," grouched the male peacock.

"No, mom, dad you have to listen to me please!" begged Nardisia.

"Our village has been completley massacred, you have to fight and live even if we don't let's go!" her father then picked her up.

"Dad no!" Nardisa said beating on his overly side muscular back, which had ultimately done no good.

They then found a cave in the cliff.

"There's one honey!" her mother pointed out rushed.

"No, aren't you guys listening don't go in there!" cried out Nardisia.

They then went inside sitting Nardisia down and she pulled out her double edged swords alertly looking around.

"Just be quiet dear," soothed her mother, "We'll be fine. You'll see."

"The hell we will..." mumbled Nardisia.

It was then low growls echoed throught the cave and quickly before two lion demons attacked Nardisa had alreay blocked them and pushed them back, "This is my dream damn it and I refuse even here to loose again. I'm not a little girl anymore now am I? Now I remember, my whole reason of being in loyalty with the the Inus," Nardisia's heart then began to blacken, "To get revenge on the Raion family for massacring my family and my whole clan!"

She then heard loud thuds hit the ground and turned around shocked. Her parents, both of them were dead from the lion demons that came in front of the cave. Nardisia's eyes then glowed and she yelled, "NOOOO!

SYMPHONY

Symphony was already suffering. Her world held nothing because she was phycic. Her whole area was purple and swirling. When she opened her eyes it was clear and she was filled with pain having random vision of seeing the deaths of Sesshomaru, Kagome, Nardisa, Symphony, Geisha, and Makato at the castle. She was the only survivor and she kept running. Running, running, and running. From the pain and the hurt she screamed. And her heart pulsed uncontrollably, from the pain slowly her heart too darkened.

SESSHOMARU

Sesshomaru looked around. He was back in his castle and walked around. "This Sesshomaru sees. So we did separate did we. This Seshomaru supposses this will make it easier for the enemy to pick us off one by one," he then pulled out his Tenseiga in its transformed state. He then walked into the garden. But it was not his garden he had known to recognize from home, the one he often saught solitude in. It was much different. There were doves everywhere and a flower arch. There was a moving lake and a full white moon from the sun window that peered through. Sesshomaru lifted his eyebrow skeptically and totally thrown off.

"This dream certainly does not belong to this Sesshomaru. Nothing of power belongs to him anywhere in this dream," he sighed. He admited, he was kinda disappointed.

He then looked out into the lake to see someone standing on it. In the pure moonlight she was beautiful, she had long dark locks and a beautiful sapphire dress. Sesshomaru growled. This wasn't about to be a dream, but a nightmare...he could feel it.

The person then turned around and revealed that she was human...the human was Kagome. She had wore the dress and crown of flowers that he found her so attractive in at the Inaugeration.

Sesshomaru looked at her confused putting away his sword and walked onto of the water.

"Human, this is no time for fratrinizing around. This must be your dream correct?" he said grabbing her wrist.

Kagome smiled and only shook her head, "I knew you'd come here. This is after all, where we connect best, Sesshomaru," Sesshomaru looked at her confused, then Kagome answered his first question patiently, "No. This is your dream. Or...a nightmare." She then went into Sesshomaru's arms and held him.

Seshomaru quickly pushed her away,"What are you doing?"

"Don't you see by now. Lord Pegasus is attacking you and all of your friends at your weakest points. This human, she is your weakness."

"Keh!" he then turned around closing his eyes walking away. But when he opened them she was right back in font of them.

"Oh, denying are we? You're afraid to fall for a human aren't you? Her in particular," she said caressing his face gazing deeply into his eyes and he returned the gaze being hypnotized by her stare as he always had; there was a long pause in conversation for several moments. But then Kagome broke it,. "This is how it's always been between you two, hasn't it?"

Sesshomaru shot escaping out of the gaze and then responded coldly with boiling anger and threat, "I will slit your body open before anyone can even recognize which parts belong where. I do not find this amusing," he then walked off from her and Kagome smiled lingering behind.

"You're trying so hard not to be like your father. But so he was with human. What's wrong with being like him. He was a great leader. Who he was with did not change his character in that area as far as leadership roles go."

Sesshomaru suddenly stopped and turned without looking at her said, "You aren't even real. The real human knows nothing about my father." When he turned around there Kagome stood again and she combed through his hair and smiled. At had been his one weakness that froze him inyet turned him on, such as what happened back at the cave when she had first did it unknowingly.

"I'm real. You're searching for the truth to fight off this right? Well here's something. I can't not be anything to you if even here as a nighmare I exist to you Sesshomaru. You fear falling for a human. And in reality, the real reality. You're falling deeply in love with her and you cannot stop it. You want the Kagome whose hair you love to touch," she grabbed Sesshomaru's hand and let him feel her hair. "You want the Kagome that's wise in her years even though she's young. You love this Kagome in front of you now even though I am a creation by the figments from power cycling through the dream world. You never say her name though you know it, in fear of letting your hidden feelings show...and until you block them you won't ever call her by her name. You could say her name at any time, but you avoid it at all costs because you and I both know then when you say my name. How you carry it is filled with such passion and affection that anyone with failed perception could see that love for her you're trying so hard to quell Sesshomaru."

Sesshomaru quickly tried to go another direction becoming frustrated and panicked but Kagome blocked him and then then recited the prophecy to him. Sesshomaru just growled from hearing it all over again, "I do not intend to fullfill that foolish prophecy."

"It doesn't matter. You will. Rather it will be within the year's time is another question but you will," Kagome then walked up to him and hugged him as she had earlier. "Defy the UDGR Sesshomaru and run away with me. Just like your father before us reliving the repeat. Come on I know you. I've seen you get upset while I was talking about your brother. It sickens you that I still love him doesn't it? That my love was wasted because Inuyasha could only give me half of his heart. Now he didn't deserve my love, did he?"

Sesshomaru growled frustrated holding his fist against his head, he couldn't take it. This was getting to be too much, even for him. "Enough," he growled.

"My heart is sad and incomplete. Who will seek it Sesshomaru? So if I walked away, would it not bother you? That's why you're keeping her away from her family aren't you? I've seen that hidden glint in your eyes. You want my body too. You want it. You've almost kissed me once during the night of the new black moon and had to fight kissing me for a while now. That is your male instinct attraction to me. And I know since your heat state, you've always just been a little curious. I know," she neared his ear, "you really want to mate with me."

"I am not my father!" he snapped and quickly ran off. Never had he ran from a battle, ever, and especially not that fast. He actually though he might fall. But fleeing from this was one he had to comply with. He then crossed the bridge and the gate opened and there Kagome was again.

"I don't mind. Leave me defensless. Even though we're suppossed to be friends. You know I had a past with Inuyasha. And you were quite upset with how he treated me."

"Do not lie to yourself," he growled trying to keep his temper down, "It is a lie."

Kagome smiled, "Whose really lying about this to themselves?" She then walked to Sesshomaru touching his face to make him look at her and she gazed passionately into his eyes with a sad glint in her eyes. "It's okay I get it. I'll leave. Kodoichi wants to be with me anyway so its fine. I would have stayed if you would have told me you wanted me. That you loved me. That you don't want to let me go. That's how I feel about you anyways. Just another one sided love wasted. I'm used to it, I could never be accepted by anyone," she then frowned. "It's fine. You weren't in my past and I didn't really know you then. But if you want to knowingly let me leave to be in another man's arms because you feel unfit or whatever the reason. I understand. What will you really do Sesshomaru?"

Sesshomaru shuddered at her touch, he felt more attracted to her than ever and the instinct to kiss her came once again. His father then appeared in the sky reciting the prophecy: "The boy whose heart is icy cold. The girl who's heart as pure as gold. The boy who kills for joy and pride, the woman who's generosity exceeds all and tells no lie. The woman who shall come to tame the prince. Together when union shall share true love's first kiss. Now the prophecy will come true, and behold amiss shall occur, for the evil prince's heart once cold, shall learn to love, when he looses that which he treasures most."

An errie wind blew and his bangs covered his eyes. He then opened his arms and embraced Kagome tightly and Kagome whispered, "I really do love you Sesshomaru. "

Sesshomaru then looked gazing deeply into her eyes almost hypnotized as he started caressing her face. Be like your father, be like your father was all the echoed around the moment. He hesitated in fear as he drew closer to and then froze hesitating. If he did it he would be no better than his father. Responsiblity or following your heart. What does one do? His heart then became bitter and slowly grew dark. Was loving humans in his blood? Would he just kiss her anyways? And it was there they froze in that dark of hesitation that Sesshomaru thought and considered. Was this, was this how he really felt?

---

NEXT TIME on I'd Rather: It's dark over everyone who must face their biggests fears, pains, anger, struggle, and regrets as they all suffer under the hands of Pegasus. Only Deixi can help and tell them Pegasus's weakness in the dream wolrd. Once they break, they must travel to one another's dream to save them in their separate nightmares from their hearts blackening into becoming soul victims themselves. But easier said than done. Will they be able to get it together and face the dream Pegasus for the first fight in the dream world? Tune in to find out on the next chapter of I'd Rather:

Chapter 15: Pegasus's Black Heart