Kagome landed on the ground with an incredibly graceful entrance due to her travelling companion that kept his grip firm around her waist. His arm had moved further to circle her and prevent any potential for separation during the trip. The opinionated sword in his other hand slowly calmed down as the air around it returned to normal, the glow diminished and the lighting decreased. Eventually it returned back to its normal state as a rusty looking sword in a well maintained sheath. When Sesshomaru lowered his arm in acknowledgement of the receding power Kagome knew immediately they were back in their own world.
She felt it.
Her heart pounded in her chest angrily and her feet collapsed on her from the needle sensation of the ground. Her tongue felt too big for her mouth as it dried instantly and the air became a disgusting taste of rotting corpses. Sesshomaru's arm was the only item keeping her standing and he immediately dropped the sword in order to steady her when she went limp. His other arm reached for her legs as he scooped her up off the floor. Kagome's breathing became erratic but she managed a nod towards him indicating that while painful she would survive this current moment.
She watched as his own body seemed to adjust as well, his shoulder sagging less and his senses adjusting to the new surroundings. Kagome could only imagine how different the scents were in this world. Sesshomaru seemed to lock onto something important as his eyes narrowed sharply. Clearly something significant had drawn his attention based off of the look on his face.
Eventually she heard loud noises in the distance that sounded distinctly like battle calls. Quickly identifying that something was wrong Kagome essentially threw herself from his hold and tumbled to the floor. She caught herself on one of her feet and pushed herself up by an arm. Before he could berate her she pointed towards the noises, "Go, I will be fine."
He shook his head, "You are still injured and Inuyasha has his sword. I should get you to safety first. There is a barrier I can activate in my study."
Her own eyes narrowed as the scratch in her voice became apparent again, "You will go and help your brother or I will. We both know who has a better chance of survival in a fight, so unless you want me going you will go and protect him."
He glanced at her again then back at the direction the noises came from. It was when she felt a very strong gust of wind pulling her inward that she realized it was more than just Inuyasha in the fight. Something had drawn the entire team in. Her eyes widened as she pleaded with Sesshomaru to hurry. Without a word he flash stepped away and Kagome felt herself crumble to the ground. It had been rather painful pretending not to be breaking all over again.
She was not done yet though and with an obscene amount of effort Kagome pushed herself back up to her feet. Grabbing onto a nearby tapestry she pulled herself forward and ignored the pain. She had no weapons but under no circumstances was she leaving her friends alone on the battle field. Step by step she walked further towards the gardens until her eyes could properly take in the sight before her.
Her comrades were fighting mercilessly with an onslaught of demons, them clearly having been at this for some time. Sango's familiar giant boomerang was broken in two and she had resorted to her concealed weapons for survival; Miroku was across the way as he attempted to absorb any demons that came in larger groups. He was sweating profusely and his clothing was torn in multiple places.
Malik was nowhere to be found but she could feel his energy pulsing everywhere, heat encasing her body as if standing near a hot fire. Eventually a large fire cat, one the size of Sesshomaru's true form, crashed through the side of the building as bird demons ate at his neck. He swatted them away with his paws and she instinctively knew this was Malik, the same terrorizing energy surrounding him. She watched in horror as his paw was attacked by an unknown demon and said paw was nearly ripped from his body. Within the last few minutes of what would have been a potentially un-savable foot a burst of fire engulfed him and the creatures around him were destroyed. He stood again with a small limp and immediately charged back into the battle though this time panting harder.
Her eyes searched for Inuyasha and she visibly had to cover her mouth in shock as she watched him face a carbon copy of himself. Whatever the creature was moved like him, spoke like him and clearly understood this particular version of mental warfare. She was not sure how she knew which one was her friend but his presence called to her as he was knocked backwards by the other version of himself. Kagome watched as a claw went through his right arm and he struggled to stay standing.
Kagome glanced around as she looked at the damage, the injured bodies that lay in front of her. What had happened while they were gone? She looked for Sesshomaru but could not find him, his aura being masked by the overwhelming one of a transformed Malik.
In desperation Kagome placed her hands to the ground somehow feeling the need inside her to find the demon Lord. Since her powers were still not working Kagome challenged the earth to find Sesshomaru.
Nothing.
She directed her energies towards the sky and just as she was about to give up hope Kagome felt his movements, his poison in the taste of the air. Focusing her vision she watched as he battled a small child like demon with silver hair sitting atop a flaming horse.
Before she could respond an arm reached for her shoulder and swung her around to face them. Her heart dropped as the familiar presence of Kanna overwhelmed her. The girl's arm was still resting on her shoulder and those soulless eyes seemed to paralyze Kagome on the spot. The blank look was transfixed onto Kagome and then the child tilted her head to the right as if contemplating something. A flash of something new sparked in her eyes, it looked similar to curiosity, but dissipated quickly back into the emotionless state. "Naraku wishes to speak with you."
Kagome knew this could go nowhere good. Kanna had never brought good things and Naraku was quite literally the worse thing she had ever had the unfortunate history of meeting. Her eyes narrowed as she summoned her powers in defense. Nothing arose though and her heart plummeted. Even that small newborn version of her powers would be welcome right now.
Kagome tried moving away from her but the child needed no further prompting. Her hold was much stronger than anyone would have guessed. Kagome could practically feel the bruises forming as her body continued to give out. Just as she nearly collapsed from exertion a large bat like figure dove between them and broke the contact Kanna had. Kagome launched herself back and pressed her body against the wall as what she assumed to be one of her bat demon friends attempted to save her. The creature was swatted away as a large gust of wind knocked it to the side. Looking up she watched as the familiar feather form of Kagura landed before them. Surrounded by the two demons Kagome felt her fear escalate. What could she possibly do when standing seemed unlikely?
Her heart reached out for assistance with someone she trusted to call out to but everyone was busy. No one was able to save the small human girl who fell through a well and was dying of unknown demonic induced spiritual sickness. She coughed loudly and a splatter of blood reached her lips, energy draining her moment by moment. Instinctively Kagome reached out to a better time in her life and she remembered waking up in Sesshomaru's lap, his hand on her stomach as he berated his father for doing whatever he did. She had felt so safe, so protected. She wanted that again.
"Sesshomaru," she whispered as if he would somehow hear her who knows how many feet up into the air.
Kagura's fan closed angrily, "That ungrateful dog is busy and will not be coming to your aid."
Before the two could reach for her again the wall around them caved in. Kagome covered her head as the very dead version of a flying fire breathing white horse was smashed into the wall between them. Nearly on top of it and panting was Sesshomaru as he pinned the small boy down by his throat. The child's energy reeked of Naraku and she knew it was another infernal creation. The creature pawed and kicked at the demon Lord but Sesshomaru did not loosen his grip.
Understanding dawned on her. Mid fight Sesshomaru had shift his attacks to put him near her, because she had called out for him. Kagome watched as Kagura raised her fan to slash Sesshomaru's back with her wind blades and Kagome felt her rage boil over. Pushing all her energy out Kagome forced herself to her feet and launched herself onto the wind witch's back.
Both were completely thrown off balance as Kagome tried to steady herself but was pushed forward onto the ground. Kagome remained steady though as she attempted to use anything near her. She was flipped onto her back as Kagura's demonic strength righted the situation. As the woman stood Kagome watched as a sharp edge of wood the size of a tree launched itself in the air and hit the infernal woman. Kagome glanced around to see that Sesshomaru had released the boy to protect her and had to now once again engage the other demon in combat.
When the creepy boy spoke Kagome was shocked at the level of malice and adulthood. He was no child, just another deceptive body harboring hatred and disgust in the world, "You are distracted Sesshomaru."
Kagome looked up to see Kagura once again towering over her. The woman's hair was a mess and her dress crumpled with broken twigs throughout her wardrobe, "You are coming with me you stupid girl."
Kagome's eyes narrowed. Sesshomaru was risking himself to keep her safe and she needed to step it up. Nodding her head Kagome accepted that even in his battle he was looking after her and she needed to use that. If he could prevent it nothing would happen to her. She had to believe that, she had to believe it if she planned on surviving this. Keeping it in the back of her mind that Sesshomaru would protect her Kagome once again formed a plan. Glancing at the still standing girl, Kanna really was a doll without direct orders from someone, Kagome changed her tactics.
Bolting towards the middle between them Kagome narrowly missed a blade of wind as it ghosted over her head. Waiting just a couple more seconds she paused until the familiar presence of tainted air meandered closer to her. When she felt it Kagome thrusted her palm up into the sky until she hit what appeared to be a collar bone. A screech reached her ears and a tight grip latched onto her wrist. She felt bones crunch but saw a flash of green as a poison whipped Kagura's back. Not even giving herself time to think Kagome instinctively pushed her hand into Kagura's shirt. To her surprise her hand melted into clay like skin and dissolved into the body. Kagome stopped moving and glanced down in horror at their connection.
Kagome's hand felt like it was in a void, but it was a void with a purpose. She was searching for something and her instincts were on high alert. Eventually she gripped something, something that pulsed angrily. When she latched on Kagura's face paled further and her grip released on her arm. Looking down at Kagome in shock Kagura made eye contact with Kagome, "How-how did you find it? He hides it on him at all times. How did you find my heart?"
Kagome's eyes widened… her heart?
Kagura's eyes watered as she looked down. A sense of comprehension dawned on her as she took in the struggling human. No, not human. Naraku would never be this afraid of one human. Besides, what human could move their arm through space to identify a stolen incarnates heart? She made eye contact with Kagome, "Kill me, kill me and destroy the mirror."
Kagome was in a state of shock but Kagura continued, "Squeeze it and destroy the mirror. Kanna is connected to it. If you destroy it Kanna will perish and he will no longer have his spy. He will need to come here himself and you can finally destroy him. He fears the alliances you have made and will not waste energy to create another."
Kagome sputtered, "Why are you helping us?"
Kagura closed her eyes before snapping them open again, her determination clear to both of them, "I see freedom and I will take it."
Before Kagome could do anything more Kagura's free hand grabbed Kagome's arm and gently squeezed. "Please."
And Kagome crushed the unknown item in her hand. Kagura's face conveyed inconceivable pain as a scream ripped through her throat. She could feel the demonic swirl around her and something deadly grab onto her own hidden hand. It felt like someone else's grip but it was cold and malicious. She tried yanking her arm out from the dying woman but whomever it was held on tight, them clearly upset by this change in circumstances. Kagome's powers flared and she pushed raw energy into that hold shocking whomever had her, though she suspected it was a familiar spider demon. Within moments their pain must have become unbearable and Kagome pulled her arm to safety. Pulling what she could to her chest Kagome watched as the particles of ash, what she presumed to be the remains of a burnt heart, floated from her fingertips. The body before her disintegrated and she felt her jaw drop.
Remembering the conversation with the now dead woman Kagome glanced at Kanna. She still stood in the shadows as if separate from all of this. Her eyes hardened as she took in the apathetic look on the girl. Kagura had just died, was there no remorse for a fellow creature? Kagome saw the mirror glow as the familiar story of someone attempting to take her soul rose. She was really getting sick of that obsession of everyone else's. Seriously, her soul was hers.
The light shot towards her but she rolled to her side dodging the familiar effect. Moving again Kagome tackled the small girl, though she did not concentrate on her but instead the mirror. Scrambling to her feet Kagome pushed herself forward as she reached for the reflective object. Kanna continued to move at the same slow pace as before, like nothing could faze her.
Then Kagome's fist hit the mirror.
Kanna's eyes snapped towards her.
Kagome hit it again and survival instincts seemed to overwhelm doll like features.
With this next hit the mirror cracked briefly but not enough to stop the moving child. Kagome looked back and saw that Kanna's smooth face had a crack down the middle which was very similar to the one she just caused.
Kanna grabbed Kagome's ankle and Kagome kicked her off with a foot to the face. The girl stayed attached though and clawed her way up Kagome's form, drawing blood with each strike.
Kagome knew what she needed to do and concentrated on the mirror with both fists. Her hair was yanked back by small childlike hands and more than a few strands were ripped from her hair; but she continued. Placing both of her hands into one large fist Kagome pushed all of her strength into one last blow. When her fingers hit she felt glass shatter around her and some embedded itself into her skin. The blinding light that escaped from the mirror flew her back with back breaking speed and before she could register it Kagome was once again in a world of darkness.
Kagome eventually woke to the familiar sound of chirping birds next to her head. Her first instinct was to ask George to sit on their new found friend in order to provide some peace and quiet but then she remembered…they were home.
Kagome's eyes were open instantly and not even the blinding sunlight could stop her from sitting up. She found herself in a mountain of blankets both beneath her back and on top of her. She glanced around to find that she was indeed on the floor while being surrounded by other injured individuals. Pushing herself up she was shocked to see a familiar person in red charging towards her.
He looked haggard and worn out, as if he had been fighting for weeks rather than days. Before he could reach her he stopped himself, his extended claw slowly retracting itself to behind his back. She frowned in confusion but realized why when she looked down; her hands were covered in wraps. The glass must have destroyed her pretty appropriately if Inuyasha was wary of touching her. He dropped down to the ground and gave the longest sniff of his life. After a few more minutes he smiled and a sense of relief washed over him, "You actually scared me there."
Kagome felt her eyes water as his familiar voice reached her. She had missed him so much, "Yea well I nearly had a panic attack when I saw two of you."
He broke all protocol he had apparently been given and swooped her up into a hug, pulling her from the layers of sheets. He placed her down gently when something akin to a hiss reached them both. In surprise Kagome glanced around him to see both Sesshomaru and Malik standing there.
Her eyes wandered as she remembered Malik's cat form.
Hissing.
Cat.
Malik.
Her grin broke out, "You hiss?"
His arms folded angrily, "If you were not half dead already I would beat you foolish girl."
Kagome did not care in the slightest at his threat as she felt the overwhelming urge for playful banter. Her time in the afterlife had given her a whole new insight into demon behaviors and this odd desire to protect while at the same time being insufferable. Her arguments with him shifted at some point, most likely on that day when he had offered her clothes and seeing him again brought her an odd amount of joy. "But wait, I heard you growl in the battle. It was terrifying. Is this like your kitten form?"
Malik turned towards Sesshomaru, "At least you returned somewhat sane, she was clearly injured beyond repair."
Kagome decided to interpret this as 'good job at the impossible task of keeping her alive' followed by a 'I am glad you are both safe'.
Sesshomaru's eyes remained on her as he disregarded his god-father, "Are you in pain?"
Kagome ignored the comment as she brushed aside her own injuries. Her bouts came in waves but a steady stream of pain was always present. Looking down at her hands she was surprised to find that her twisted ankle hurt far more than the glass wounds. "Where are the children?"
Inuyasha scratched his head nervously, "Shippo barricaded them in the dungeons when my twin tried slicing them all up. Shiho is trying to convince all of them now that I am not a mass killer and that he is indeed himself. Someone taught Shippo rather powerful wards though and so far we do not think he believes anyone. Combine that with Shirori's skills and we just have to wait for them to give in. I could break down the barrier with my sword but that might also take out the entire building."
Kagome nodded in approval with knowing that they were safe and also smart about this. Glancing around she saw multiple demons at her feet along with one unconscious human. Miroku was also on the floor on the opposite side of the crumbling room, Sango by his side as she held his hand. She knew that look; his wind tunnel was getting to big. "Will he be okay?"
Inuyasha's eyes closed, "He can't use it again Kag's it will kill him."
She watched as Sango brushed hair from Miroku's eyes. The woman looked up briefly and they made eye contact. An understanding passed between them. One of sisterhood, of longing and of support. Then Sango nodded her head in acknowledgement and returned her gaze towards the sleeping man.
Before Kagome could comment Inuyasha began pacing, "But you just had to go and be difficult. Who the fuck does what you did? You just up and decide to destroy the most fucking powerful mirror around and think you will be okay like some un-killable demon. What the hell would have happened if Sesshomaru hadn't of caught you? Huh?"
Kagome felt her mouth smile subconsciously when she heard the news. Sesshomaru had caught her in the explosion. Pulling her knee's closer Kagome looked up at the three of them, "That's why I did it, I knew he would keep me safe."
Inuyasha's mouth dropped, "You-you knew? You cannot know that? He was in a battle and barely had time. I was halfway across the field and everyone else was too. You couldn't have known that. Stop making such reckless moves you stupid woman."
Kagome shook her head and glanced at Sesshomaru, "But he did, so I do not think this is as big an issue as you are making it."
Inuyasha stomped his foot, "Your hands are crippled Kagome, Jinenji says you will probably never use them again! He couldn't even get half the shards out!"
Kagome looked down at her hands as the information just felt wrong. Blinking rapidly Kagome looked at the familiar bandages. She had wrapped so many others herself and while she could feel something pressing against her hands they did not feel broken. Kagome quickly used her teeth to undo the bandages and Inuyasha went into panic mode. He reached out but Sesshomaru stopped him. His instincts to go against his alpha were overwhelming but it was not until he felt the clattering of glass on the floor that he turned back around.
Kagome had unrolled one of the bandages completely only for about eight or nine slivers of glass to empty onto the floor. Her hands were completely smooth and clear of all blemishes, not even a spot of redness to be found. The shards glowed a familiar black until they dissolved into smoke before their eyes. Malik dropped to the ground onto his knees as he checked her hands, quickly unraveling the other to see that it was the same scenario.
He looked back at the other two. Finally he stood again, "What happened over the last few months?"
Kagome blinked as she processed this. Months? Kagome shot to Sesshomaru and he stared out the window. She followed his gaze to see that snow was indeed on the ground. They had not left when it was winter. "But we were gone a couple of days, at the most."
Inuyasha shook his head, "No, four full moons have passed since anyone has last seen either of you. When the portal closed no one was quite sure what would happen."
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed, "And Naraku attacked?"
Malik nodded, "Uza and Shiho were initially thought to be captured. We have sense learned that Uza, in his fit of rage against me, had partnered with Naraku believing that the spider would hold true to his word to only take over my lands. He had tricked Shiho into another outing with him and rendered him unconscious. By then Naraku had sent spies to start the battle, once he realized both Kagome and Sesshomaru were gone it has been constant. Your wolf friend Kouga came when Inuyasha summoned him under your name and has been holding the southern side at bay while we have taken the brunt of the attacks. The soldiers would take rotations for battle and defend the keep. Uza and Shiho both appeared near the front gate less than a full moon ago, Shiho carrying an unconscious Uza. He warned us of the last full attack but we were not prepared for a look alike Inuyasha. The children have barricaded themselves since then and Uza has been in the caverns in a locked cell. He provides us information on Naraku but no one has fully trusted him."
Kagome watched as realization dawned on Sesshomaru, "Rin has believed me to be dead for that long? She has been trapped in a room for a full moon cycle?"
He turned swiftly and it was clear where he was heading. Kagome attempted to stand and was surprised to find that Malik had steadied her. She gave him a look and with a small nod Inuyasha rushed to her side. Within moments he was taking her down to the designated area. Before her stood Sesshomaru whose fist was meeting the protective barriers surrounding it. His acid sprayed and she felt his pain as if it were his own. She stumbled forward and placed her hand on his arm, catching him mid punch. He turned towards her and she had the distinct impression that had it been anyone else they would have been met with far more aggression. Instead he permitted her to hold down his arm and begun hitting with his other.
Kagome reached for that and she could tell that his instinct was to pull away. He let her though, he let her hold his arm in place. Looking at the wall Kagome rationalized, "Demonic energy will not bring it down, Shippo knows shape shifters and how they will change forms to get what they want. You have been the one training him after all. And as long as Shiori senses danger she will not permit others to breach her barrier either. Neither of us have enough energy to bring it down on our own without hurting them."
Instead she brought up the arm she had latched onto and placed it on the barrier. Putting her own hand over his Kagome permitted her powers forth. Her own energy was depleted and mostly unresponsive to her but she knew Sesshomaru would be full of life. Opening herself up Kagome allowed what small powers she had, though still very dormant in her system, to ride Sesshomaru's demonic energy. They took to it like a fish in water and she could feel her own self growing. Her powers flowed throughout her veins as Sesshomaru's energy overrode hers, fueling her where she had been so empty. Instinctively he washed the barrier over with his aura and it cascaded the entire thing. Once it was covered, the dome like shape glowed a swirl of colors until it shattered before their eyes.
Kagome watched as the unbreakable barrier stood no chance against their mixed energies. Stumbling forward Sesshomaru caught her again but she placed her hand on his chest. Her first priority was the safety of the children.
Glancing up at the door she watched as it creaked open slightly. It was dark behind the door and no light poured forth, obviously the children had done this on purpose for strategy. She saw it though, a familiar twinkle in a familiar eye. Her eyes watered as words nearly escaped her, "Shippo?"
The door creaked open further as she watched a familiar nose twitch as it scented the air. Her own nose caught the scent of feces and spoiled water but she bypassed it, not even wanting to think of what their living conditions had been. His fox like foot stepped out cautiously as he registered the multiple occupants in the room. She sighed with relief when a small hand reached out the other side of the door and pulled it open briefly. It was Shiori, though she stayed back clearly taking the lead from Shippo. He scented the air again and stared at her, "What is my favorite prank I play on Inuyasha?"
Kagome smiled, "Where you trap his hands to the ground and throw things at him."
The boy stood taller, "When I lost my first tooth what did Miroku say?"
Kagome once again smiled at the memory, "That women will like the look."
His eyes watered, "Any what did Kagome tell me that first night I could not sleep, when I first joined Inuyasha after the Thunder brothers were killed."
Kagome reached out her hands as a sob caught in her throat, "That I would never leave you."
The boy was in her arms faster than she could see and it was only by Sesshomaru's steady form still behind her that she was standing. Shippo was crying profusely which immediately caused her own eyes to water further. He snuggled up between her chin and collar bone as if absorbing her scent into his very being. Almost on cue multiple children stepped out of the doorway as Shiori's mother lead them through the door, each realizing individually they were safe. They burst through the halls in what she could only assume was an attempt to find their parents.
Kagome looked up in time to see a small human child glance around the door, a makeshift doll of straw in her hands. She looked up to see the tall silver haired demon standing there and Kagome felt her own heart break. Rin did not know what to do. She clearly wanted to hug Sesshomaru but did not know if it was appropriate. So to assist Kagome extended out to her as well, the young girl rushing into the grip as well. Once Rin was secure Kagome reached up and pulled Sesshomaru down to their level, his standing form doing nothing for the girl as he imitated a statue.
Kagome pulled him close and he encased both her and the children. After a few more minutes Rin's shaking stopped, her hands refusing to let go of Sesshomaru's inner layer of clothing. Briefly Kagome wondered what a sight they must have looked like after all of this time. Bruised, battered and her wearing Sesshomaru's clothes.
Pulling away gently Kagome nearly pushed Rin into Sesshomaru's grip. He looked at her briefly but was clearly occupied with the child in his arms. He remained kneeling on the ground as his arms wrapped around her, his chin resting on her own head while he breathed in her scent, undoubtedly attempting to filter what she smelt of before. Once he had his fill and knowing she was safe, though malnourished and in desperate need of a bath, he looked around the room.
"We will regroup. If Naraku is intelligent he will not purposefully give us time to find our footing. The children and injured will take priority as they have been living in squalor for the past month. I will take the first watch and will personally speak with Uza. It seems we have much to discuss." Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed with the knowledge that one of his own comrades had contributed to such destruction. When they had gone missing before leaving for the underworld Sesshomaru had his suspicions that something was wrong but not this.
He moved his arm from Rin but permitted her to continue clinging to his clothing, her smile infectious to those around her. He looked to see Kagome still supporting Shippo. "You must rest."
Kagome glared, "I am fine, I actually feel a bit better now."
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed, "You were nearly eaten by multiple creatures, fell down a mountain and were poisoned by a claw while putting up with the destructiveness my father's mere presence brought you only to travel through worlds and kill two of Naraku's incarnation. You will rest or I will knock you out myself."
Kagome was rather unsure what to say to that last comment. Part of her wanted to believe that he wouldn't do it; he wouldn't hit her upside the head, but another part believed he was much like his father and would do anything if he truly believed it to be protecting something. She narrowed her eyes in decision, "Try me."
His own eyes narrowed as he looked at Kagome. Without breaking eye contact he motioned towards Rin, "Rin, you and Kagome are in need of proper rest. She will take you to the bathhouse and sleep shortly afterwards. Do not fear Rin, she will keep you safe nor will she leave your side while resting until I am able to join you personally."
Her jaw could have dropped with the underhandedness of it all. He did not just use his flipping ward to manipulate her. It wasn't until Shippo pulled at her hair and stated, "I'm kinda tired too, Shiori and I stayed awake a lot to keep the barrier up."
Her heart melted but her eyes remained that of steel. Looking at the two children she glanced at Inuyasha.
He stepped forward until he was within proper distance to grab her upper arm to support her. He must have seen the weight she was attempting to disperse to her other foot in order to avoid the injured ankle. Once she was properly standing Inuyasha glanced at his brother with a smirk, "That was impressive, I will give you that." Then the younger brother's eyes narrowed, "But it is still a no."
Sesshomaru glared, "Your opinion on the matter is still irrelevant, it is more important that she rests."
Inuyasha's mouth nearly dropped himself all the way to the floor. No outward denial? No need to defend his pride or talk about how foolish Inuyasha was being? What the hell happened on their trip?
Letting the comment go since he did not want to explain anything to those around them Inuyasha assisted in directing the three into the appropriate room. Kagome insisted on returning to the make-shift infirmary so other rooms could be secured for the more injured. She also wanted to check on Miroku. When he had them bathed and learned that only with assistance would Kagome not drown in the bathing area each were settled into the blankets. Miroku remained unconscious but Sango had been more than ready to greet her friend now that a party of men wee not surrounding her. Kagome had been too tired to converse much and Inuyasha had shuffled her back towards the corner with the children. It was not until they were properly settled and the children asleep that he asked his question, "So you knew he would catch you?"
Kagome glanced up as her eyes fluttered back open, "No, but I knew he wouldn't let me die."
Inuyasha pushed his nails into his palms, "How?"
Kagome's eyes fluttered again, "I don't know, I just trusted him to be there and he was. It was like; I knew I could do whatever I needed to do because of it."
Inuyasha released his palms, "You trust him with your life?"
Kagome smiled briefly, "In that moment yes, but I trust him with something far more important than my life Inuyasha, I trust him with yours. If I believe in that there is very little I would not ask him to protect."
Inuyasha shook his head. Eventually he ran his hands through her hair, once again being careful with the tips of his claws. "I thought I had lost you."
Even though her eyes were closed she managed a small, "Never."
Once her breathing evened out he felt his tension rise back up. When they had both jumped through and he watched that portal close it was as if his world had suddenly spun forward at a completely unmanageable pace. He had felt stretched beyond belief and without his regular source of comfort.
Would that be what it would be life if he lost her? If she died or never came back to him? If the well did not permit her through in her visit home? A very basic part of Inuyasha knew that he would have descended into madness if it had continued. The fear had nearly crippled him.
With a nod to the nearest guard he quickly went to seek out the other reason for this discomfort. Going directly to where he knew Uza would be held he was shocked to find that the demon was standing and speaking adamantly with those around him. Since he had shown up on the front yard of the castle unconscious he had been near despondent with sadness. It was clear to all around how regretful he was of his choices, for his foolishness. No one was ready to forgive him though.
Sesshomaru stood cross armed as he glared at his fellow Lord, "Why Uza?"
Uza's chains rattled as he paced back and forth, "I was stupid, and angry. It was like I was losing her all over again and being that close to Malik made me vulnerable."
Malik scoffed, "If you recall Uza, she left me. She became with child by another man and tried claiming it as mine. Unfortunately for her I am incapable of producing an owl half demon due to my breeding."
Uza's eyes narrowed, "You suffocated her! Enough that she took her own life when you spurned her."
Malik's rage boiled over, his own frustration from the long battles and emotional turmoil weighing him down. "Your human broke my heart. I mated her Uza, a concept you cannot understand since you refuse to do so. I die every day when I think of her acts, her betrayal and her death."
Uza's eyes dropped as he tried to regain his argument but he was unfounded and he knew it. Malik had mated her and there was nothing more sacred then that among demons. She had not understood the repercussions and it had cost them so much, "She did not understand."
Malik glared, "Understand or not she made her choices. Perhaps the bond was too much for her, perhaps she needed something I could not give but she made her choices and I live with them. Her humanity protected her from the trials; one of us should have died then and there. You sit in your own throne room belittling me from afar but you have no right. You may hate me for having to do with her death but I hate you far more for your part in creating her. You have no idea how much I wish your father had never found that orphan child on the side of the road."
Uza eventually made eye contact with the occupants again, "I was rash and it has cost lives. Naraku nearly killed me when I stood up to him and it was only through Shiho's quick thinking that we escaped. Had he not been working on his restraints for so long we would both be dead."
Inuyasha scoffed, "You still might be dead if I know my brother at all."
Uza looked towards Sesshomaru, "He is terrified, he would speak of her over and over again. There is something about Kagome that scares him more than anything. When word got out that both you and her were missing he sent out search parties everywhere."
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed, "And why would he be cautious of a human girl if not for her connection to Kikyo?"
Uza shook his head, "I do not think it was just him. He would whisper to himself frequently as he would talk to his parts of the jewel. They whispered things to him that he should not know. I believe the demons who made up the soul of the jewel are teaching him things. Passing on knowledge. He asked me multiple times about her symptoms and would guess specifics before I had the chance to contemplate. I believe he knows what is happening to her."
Sesshomaru motioned towards Malik and Inuyasha, indicating the conversation was over. They stepped outside of the room and the demonic wards were quickly back in place. They travelled further away in case any prying ears were near before discussing further. "I assume he has caused minimal trouble since returning?"
Inuyasha nodded, "Yes but no one trusts him, not even Shiho."
Sesshomaru nodded, "It seems we are at an impasse, Naraku will undoubtedly strike soon."
Inuyasha cut them off though before the topic could be changed. While he knew the need to prepare for another strike was important Inuyasha had not forgotten the reason his alpha and his best friend traveled to the underworld. "Did you find him?"
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed. "Yes, and he is as deceitful as I remember. He participated in nothing but games and trickery. No truly useful information was gained."
Inuyasha crossed his arms, "But you punched the fucker right? For what he did to Kagome?"
A small smirk graced Sesshomaru's lips, "Repeatedly."
Malik growled, "Truly this is what you discussed with him, your anger?"
Sesshomaru glanced at his godfather, "Minimal speaking was involved in this exchange. It was quite clear what I was upset over. If I had the chance I would still rip him apart. Kagome is the only reason I did not decapitate him."
Malik glanced between the two brothers again as he registered how they had come together on this issue. There was no further point in discussing it as they were both transfixed on this small aspect of the topic. Trust Touga's son's to want to fix things through punching, he though Sesshomru a better strategist than that but Touga was known for similar impulsiveness. Letting it go he gestured back towards them. "I assume he was as helpful as those ridiculously faded texts."
Sesshomaru's attention immediately drew in, "What have you discovered while we were in the underworld?"
Malik did not glance around as he had already scanned the area for individuals, "Between the attacks on the castle, not much. She is a celestial; her life force is wavering because it is incompatible with this world. She must find something to ground her but that level of trust is virtually unheard of."
Sesshomaru's eyes snapped closed angrily as he remembered his father's words. Could it have been a rouse to spark him? That was what he had thought at the time but now was unsure. "What do you mean trust?"
Inuyasha remained silent as he stayed focused on Seshomaru. Malik gruffly replied, "The way the text is written, it is old and much is missing but it reminds me of-"
"-Mating" supplied Sesshomaru as he recalled his father's parting words.
Malik nodded, "It may have even been the original form of mating, from back before the migration."
Inuyasha's eyes narrowed again at the information. A whirlwind of scenarios crossed his mind and none of them were something he wanted to witness let alone be a part of planning, "You are not fucking my best friend."
Malik was the one to turn on him almost immediately. The perpetually angry male seemed to spark with rage as he admonished Inuyasha. "Quiet, mating is far more than rutting which any mindless beast with reproductive organs can do. You will not speak of what you do not know half-bred."
Before either could say anything the man had turned away and headed back towards the outside courtyard, heading away and most likely towards what was left of the gardens. Sesshomaru had remained rooted to the ground as the brothers continued to contemplate one another. Eventually it was Sesshomaru who turned, "This way Inuyasha, there is something I must teach you."
Inuyasha crossed his arms as he angrily came to the conclusion he was about to learn about sex from his older brother. The red tint across his cheeks was noticeable but just barely. "No way are we having this talk. I know about rutting and you are the last person I want to hear this from."
Sesshomaru reached the side of the stairs but remained standing. His shoulders sagged slightly as if also hating this conversation. "Mating is not rutting. Anyone can rut and find pleasure in the flesh but mating is something done sparingly."
Inuyasha stepped forward slightly, "What do you mean?"
Sesshomaru continued to glance towards the top of the stairs, "Mating is, sacred. It binds your soul to another with complete and utter trust, a promise of a life together that would be incomplete otherwise. There is no reversing it. Should your mate die it does not end, you can live but be broken. You cannot mate with another and you cannot produce children with another once mated. Your body will reject it on instinct and will often turn on itself. To have your mate lost to you is debilitating and many demons have gone mad with grief, killing hundreds."
Inuyasha stopped as he recalled the conversation from before, "Malik mated that woman." Inuyasha mentally went through the animosity between Malik and Uza, how it had continued to fester the longer they spent time together. He did not understand the sharp innuendo's they had thrown at one another since his team first arrived here but slowly he understood the significance of loss. Uza had come to him about this before in the garden and Inuyasha had not understood fully, now he would.
Sesshomaru stopped as his brother refocused on him, "Yes, and her humanity protected her from the nature of it. Her soul was not strong enough during the ceremony so he took on the majority of it, creating an imbalance but one that was inevitable as she was human. A human soul cannot begin to comprehend that change, that sacrifice. His anger is just, he sacrificed everything for her and he was betrayed. He can never mate again, nor have children. The one he was willing to sacrifice everything for and he bound himself to for eternity destroyed him."
Inuyasha moved towards his brother as the similarities struck him. Sesshomaru had never known loyalty or love. Kagome had tried to tell him multiple times how different both him and Sesshomaru were raised but it was not until this moment that he understood. Sesshomaru was raised with betrayal and loss in everything. His father had left him for a human and his god-father was betrayed in love as well. Sesshomaru was a minimalist and never held anything of value close to him for fear of it leaving by either their own design or someone else's. This was why his older brother had been so despondent in the forest. Sesshomaru had not questioned his feelings; he had questioned facing his fears. "So for her to live she has to try this? This mating thing?"
Sesshomaru turned fiercely, "That is not humorous Inuyasha."
Inuyasha crossed his arms, "Listen, I know most other people have a super shitty time trusting people but that has never been Kagome's problem. Hers is her mouth and her inability to remain safe in any way."
Sesshomaru growled as Inuyasha continued to list off Kagome's problems, "A rocky mountain with a steep incline and spikes at the bottom, oh she will definitely fall down it. A demon with three heads and razors for teeth, you better bet she will have the need to go take her ridiculous bath right near its swamp. A stupid wolf demon that eats humans that suddenly wants her as his pup bearing woman, that was definitely her within a season of being here."
Sesshomaru nearly growled at multiple points in that conversation, at the same time remembering his own dealings with her in the forest. It had been as if she had an unknown power that attracted danger to her. It was only when Inuyasha mentioned this wolf that Sesshomaru felt his irritation at the entire situation grow, "You are being annoying on purpose."
Inuyasha turned back towards the conversation, "I am just saying don't be a pansy and let her make her own decisions. Who to trust is not where her judgment faults are."
Sesshomaru let loose a sigh, "There is no try Inuyasha. This is seen maybe once every 50 years among our kind for it is so powerful. Couples will spend centuries debating this action. If one does not feel the same or has doubts at all they will die and their mate will live on in compete agony. They will know that their loved one did not trust them enough, was not as invested as them and that it can never be taken back. With her current state the mating itself might kill her before it can even be completed. It is not a risk I can take."
The wording to that last sentence hit them both and Inuyasha knew he was right in his assessment. Sesshomaru was terrified of losing Kagome, of losing anything.
Suddenly Inuyasha was standing in front of him as he decided what to do, "So, I'm going with that not being your decision to make."
Sesshomaru's arm extended as he attempted to push Inuyasha through a wall for his sudden defiance but was met with air as Inuyasha dodged. He turned too and saw the disobedient beta nearly taunting him. "You do not get to choose Sesshomaru, she deserves to know and now that we have all the answers she should be told what is happening, as well as a possible cure."
Sesshomaru felt his heart plummet. Inuyasha did not understand the severity of this. The individuals would have a bond like no other, something that would be considered sacred even among most enemies. In her state she would never survive and that was even if she had ultimate trust in someone and them her.
Inuyasha motioned as if he was going to run and Sesshomaru immediately understood the whelp's intentions.
The stupid beta was heading straight for Kagome.
He felt it, the beginnings of a hunt raced throughout his blood as he watched Inuyasha. Inuyasha noticed the shift too and they were both clearly prepared for the challenge. Inuyasha was the first to bolt through the floor and moved quickly to the area where he knew Kagome to be sleeping. Sesshomaru was fast though and directly on his heels. The space in the hallways was small so they each had limited mobility without making an already crumbling castle groan from lack of infrastructure. Sesshomaru swiped at his head as Inuyasha crouched down with a tuck and roll. His foot was caught though by his brothers and he found himself sailing through the air. Just as he nearly crashed into a tree he twisted his body sideways and catapulted himself into one of the soldier tents since his dear old brother had the decency to throw him outside.
Inuyasha weaved between the men before skidding to a stop outside. Sesshomaru stood menacingly without a drop of sweat or deep breath in his lungs. Inuyasha could not help the jealousy that overcame him at his brother's perfection in battle. Changing tactics he launched himself upwards to the nearest window but his hair was pulled harshly downwards. He landed with a large crater surrounding him and more than a small headache forming. Who the hell pulls someone's hair mid escape?
He looked up to narrowed golden eyes, "She might agree you dumb ass."
Inuyasha was to tired to move though, this whole adventure had been to much after all the battles he had been in recently. He was going to have to settle for good old fashioned arguments.
Inuyasha sighed dramatically, "You like her, why don't you want to try this. Are you that afraid of her rejecting you? Or do you really not care for her as much as you are letting on. Maybe it is all a passing thing on your end."
Sesshomaru grumbled, "You push me to her but your opinion of me is still that of a no? Careful Inuyasha, you are sounding as ridiculously obstinate as a pup who cannot decide its favorite food rather than someone protecting their friend."
Sesshomaru yanked him up by hair and Inuyasha was nose to nose with his brother, "I will never place her in danger purposefully. The bonding is traumatic for anyone and there is no guarantee this is what is required, let alone something she wants."
Inuyasha squabbled right back, "But you do, that's half the battle right?"
Sesshomaru growled as he pushed his nose within an inch of Inuyasha's, now with his teeth bared. "Stop being impulsive."
Inuyasha glared, "Stop being a coward."
The grip tightened as Inuyasha's face was pulled backwards by the force of it as strands of hair ripped from is scalp, "Stop being annoying."
Inuyasha nearly spat in his face, "Stop pulling my freaking hair."
A giggle broke them apart and they both looked to the left to see Shiori standing there with her hands in front of her face. Her demur nature was still present but she clearly found them amusing. Covering the bottom part of her face slightly she dug her toe into the ground, "I always wanted a sibling."
Sesshomaru released Inuyaha's hair at the same speed Inuyasha jumped away from said older brother. Inuyasha shook his head for lose hair strands and Sesshomaru checked his claws as if dirt would be under them. Eventually Inuyasha cleared his throat and walked up to the small girl, "That was very brave keeping the barrier up, I'm sorry if I scared you."
She blushed profusely, "I knew it would be okay."
Ruffling her hair on her head Inuyasha glanced back at his brother who was staring intently at the both of them. Giving a rather rude gesture behind his back he turned towards Shiori as if innocent, somehow perfectly mimicking that of a younger brother who just bested his eldest. "Have you eaten yet? We can head to the kitchens before we stop by to see Kagome."
Shiori's face lit up with excitement, "I am hungry and perhaps we can bring Kagome something?"
Inuyasha was about to nod but was cut off, "-Bring her something fresh from the garden."
Both half-demons turned around as Sesshomaru stood almost awkwardly where he was. "Something fresh and cleaned in a running stream. No animal products would most likely be best."
Inuyasha's eyebrow rose, "Fish, we will bring her fish. She loves grilled fish. It always makes her happier. "
Sesshomaru looked as if he was about to say something but stopped himself, as if holding back a rather important comment. Sesshomaru turned away but mid step turned back to face them, "No, her digestion needs something from the earth more than anything. She needs to be connected to it and let it adjust to her. Perhaps when she is better fish will be an option but right now only things from the garden washed under fresh water will do, if that is even something she can take."
Inuyasha placed his hands on his hips ready to argue when he remembered what Sesshomaru had said earlier. He was still being an obstinate child about this wasn't he? "Should it be cooked?"
Sesshomaru halted again, "No…I think it needs to be raw."
Inuyasha nodded again and pulled Shiori with him to the kitchens to ask where these items could be found. When he looked back on the small chance his brother had something else to say Sesshomaru was already gone.
Scratching his ears absentmindedly Inuyasha recalled his own words as well. It felt so long ago when he held Kagome in that bed shortly after Rin returned. Their worlds had changed so drastically but he still remembered that conversation, the one with both Kagome and himself. Until Sesshomaru could be that unselfish and a worthy demon for his friend he had swore it would be a no. He had never truly expected for his older brother to change so it had been a non-issue. Now though he had to wonder, perhaps it was no longer something to dismiss. First thing was first though, he needed to learn more about mating.
Kagome was pleasantly surprised as she ate the berries in front of her. Jinenji has been trying to feed her rice but that had quickly become a problem as the feeling of burnt ash took over. How did rice end up tasting like it had been charbroiled to death? and while the berries were not the most pleasant it was something her body was not offended as much by. Looking between him and Shiori she gave a large smile, "Thank you."
Reaching down and rubbing Rin's head as the child still slept Inuyasha said something that surprised her. "Yeah well, the bastard was pretty adamant to try this first."
Kagome stopped mid movement. A small smile reached her face, this one somehow feeling more genuine than her previous one despite both actions making her happy. Glancing back up at her friend, "That was very kind of him."
Inuyasha crossed his arms, "Really? I just think he is a possessive bastard but you can think what you want."
Kagome rolled her eyes, "I cannot tell you how many times I would have died without him by my side Inuyasha. I really think you need to give up this pretend hatred thing now that you guys are pack and semi-getting along."
Glancing with one eye at her Inuyasha finally made his leap as he tested the waters, "I don't know if I would call it pretend hatred, more like caution for someone with mood swings that range from ignoring you to killing intent."
Kagome scoffed, "Yes, because a vengeful homicidal demon would be sure to go out of his way to tell you that fruit would be helpful for me. He probably just wanted to spare you from what he went through trying to find food for me in the afterlife."
Leaning forward Inuyasha saw his in, "He provided for you? I saw the clothing but kind of figured you stole it from him."
Kagome had since been changed into clean clothing after her bath but desperately missed the comfort of Sesshomaru's haori. Grabbing the sheets Kagome pulled them to her face as she piled both children closer to her, "I don't know what to expect now that we are back. In the beginning everything was about besting his father and I was so angry, then like a stupid person I left and injured myself and then he was so nice when he found me. Something changed after that, I think I understood him more. How are you doing it? Adjusting to this person who previously hated you?"
Inuyasha blinked rapidly as he tried to process all that he had heard. His mind was spinning as he took in all she was saying as if a funnel of information was taking over his mind. They had yet to talk about what had transpired in the underworld as everything had been focused towards securing the castle. What did he focus on, Kagome's feelings or his own? How was he transitioning to him and Sesshomaru being pack? Surprisingly well actually when he thought about their brawl out in the yard. Towards the end it had reminded him quite a bit of watching Kagome and Souta argue over who ate the last helping of their mothers cooking. Shiori certainly solidified that.
He felt overwhelmed and latched on to the first thing he could think of.
Insults.
"You freaking ran away from him? In a world of demon infested killers after you purposefully went to that place to find him? Are you a moron?" was what quickly came out. He did not miss how even in his insult he was directing her to let Sesshomaru protect her.
Kagome glared, "Yes because you are the definition of someone who faces their problems strategically when unable to punch or fight your way out."
Inuyasha grimaced, "That is different. I am a demon and that is how we solve things. Everything else is just boring and pointless."
Scoffing Kagome nearly growled, "Yes well that certainly explains your and Sesshomaru's interactions. One minute you guys are getting along and the next he is throwing you through a ceiling."
Inuyasha found himself smirking at the memory, "Sibling stuff."
Kagome nearly berated him again until she caught onto his words, as well as his gentle tone. He had called Sesshomaru his sibling and their interaction as an affectionate gesture. She caught his eye and saw a peace there that had never before been present. Inuyasha placed a hand almost gently on her own, "I am learning, just like he is. We will probably always want to smash the other's face in but I kind of like it. It gives me a reason to punch him while only partially worrying I am going to die."
Kagome felt her own humor rise as she watched him relish in the idea of having an older brother. It was something that she never thought was possible. All of those nights with Touga telling him how impossible his dream was seemed so meaningless now. Sesshomaru and Inuyasha were brothers in so many ways and it nearly caused her to cry. Was this now demonic sibling rivalry? She just gave her brother a noggie or hit on the arm but perhaps demon affection was more intense. "I am glad you to have each other. I think you both needed one another and it makes me happy when you guys act like family."
Inuyasha pushed himself back, "Family is a strong word but it helps when we see eye to eye. I think he was more pissed at our father than I was when he found out how much danger Touga put you in."
Kagome's hand stilled and she moved back towards making eye contact with her friend, "What do you mean?"
Inuyasha knew this was the moment. Her comment earlier proved just how little she knew about his brother's feelings and he had now done his research. This mating stuff was serious shit and had the possibility of killing both of them along with any witnesses which slightly terrified him. What kind of bonding had the sheer power of the force potentially destroy everything around it? He got it a bit more now, why Sesshomaru had been so adamantly against it. This type of binding was soul altering for any normal person and with her celestial presence it was on an entirely different level. Her very soul could be torn to shreds in a very similar sense of what had happened to Kikyo. Nothing could be hidden in the bond and every crevice of the soul, every intention and every thought would determine what happened.
Still, he needed to know. He needed to understand what was happening between them and Sesshomaru was too much a chicken shit to say anything meaningful.
"Kagome, he didn't go there to beat our dad. He went there to find answers and appropriately yell at him for doing this to you. He was livid Kag's," he said solemnly.
Kagome pushed the covers aside as she felt her body heat raise to a new temperature. Her heart rate increased tenfold and her breathing became short, but this time it was not from pain symptoms. "No he didn't he went to prove himself the alpha male. He would not risk his life or his lands just to berate someone who is already dead."
Inuyasha shook his head as hope bloomed in his chest. Sesshomaru never said anything to her; he never told Kagome his reasoning for going which somehow made it all the more meaningful. He knew more than most how insecure and temperamental Kagome could be when she misinterpreted something. She had probably been hell for Sesshomaru and the man had just stuck with it in his attempt to protect her, "One day Kagome, you are going to have to stop underestimating the effect you have on people."
Kagome pushed the sleeping kids away from her as her head begun to spin, "This isn't funny Inuyasha."
Pushing further Inuyasha nearly broke his friend mentally, "I bet he was pissed when he saw you, probably didn't talk to anyone at all since his whole reason for going was to keep you out of danger. Then he probably did what I do but a hell of a lot quieter and tried to make sure you had anything you might need. Did he stay by your side but just a little out of your reach to make sure he had a full peripheral of the area? He try hunting for you while being mindful of how squeamish you get around small fluffy animals? I bet you the food was crazy ugly. Did he keep you close when you were injured? Did he almost lose it every time you were in immediate danger?"
Kagome pressed her back into the wall as image after image played in her mind. She was thankful she had been sitting up against it in her bed as visions nearly flew past her, "Why are you telling me this?"
Inuyasha stood up, "Because I think…I think if what I am thinking actually happened, then my answer might be a yes."
Kagome looked up at him from the floor, "Your answer to what?"
Inuyasha stood still as he glanced at the sleeping children. With a smirk he motioned towards Rin's uncovered form, "She will get cold Kagome if you keep pulling the sheets away."
Kagome instantly moved the blanket over the small child, "What are you saying Inuyasha?"
Walking backwards the half-demon smirked, "You know I get it a bit, why Touga was such a prick by doing this. Without you none of us would have anything. Sango would be controlled by Naraku, Miroku would have been absorbed by his wind tunnel by now and Shippo would probably be dead. And me, I've got a pack. Don't get me wrong the man still deserves to have his face punched in repeatedly but now that Sesshomaru did that I can say with confidence that I get it. I can't blame him for wanting something similar for Sesshomaru."
Kagome's eyebrows furrowed, "You are making no sense."
When Inuyasha was by a window he looked out at the trees. In that moment he made the decision to not tell her about the mating or what was happening to her, not yet anyways. He somehow knew that it would throw her over the edge and a few more things needed to happen before she could handle that revelation. She already doubted herself so much and telling her that Sesshomaru may or may not be in love with her was not his place. Still, he could make it right difficult for the couple. Wanting to see what would happen and channeling into a side of himself he had never had time to explore he said calmly, "I think a walk in the gardens would be good for you Kagome and your ankle is healing. It seemed to help in the past, you know when you weren't setting things on fire with your body."
With a questioning glance she agreed half-heartedly before he leapt out the window.
It was another hour or two before the children woke up and by that time Kagome had engaged in multiple pain and panic attacks. The pain was manageable if she squeezed her legs hard enough and the panic was understandable. She felt like Inuyasha had been hinting at something rather profound but refused to acknowledge what he had been instigating. Sesshomaru did not like her. Pack…pack was what he probably saw her as.
As for her, she did not even know what to think in this moment. How she viewed Sesshomaru was a color wheel of possibilities. Once she had gathered up enough strength she had agreed to take the children to the gardens. She had promised Inuyasha after all and Sesshomaru had yet to finish his work to spend time with Rin.
Together the three of them went to what was left of the beautiful area she had once loved. It was still semi-intact but had clearly been through a demon skirmish. While ignoring her damaged feet Kagome began pointing out the different flowers to Rin in an attempt to teach her something medicinal, what with all these battles happening. It was not until two forms came flying towards them that she grabbed the children and ducked.
Much to her surprise both Sesshomaru and Inuyasha came tumbling through the yard and barreled over multiple trees uprooting them in the process. Before the dust cleared Sesshomaru had Inuyasha by the jaw and in the air, "Yes Inuyasha?"
Kagome nearly yelled at both of them before she realized they were having a conversation of their own, "Stalking much?" countered her friend.
Sesshomaru dropped him as if a bag of dirt, "Patrolling the boarder to ensure the safety of my people is not stalking. Why did you tackle me?"
Inuyasha stood up and brushed off his pants, "Just wanted to see how distracted you were in your…patrolling."
Sesshomaru's claws flexed, "Now I remember why I regularly knock you unconscious. You are far more pleasing when you do not have the ability to talk or move."
Before their squabble could go further Rin launched herself from Kagome's hold and nearly threw herself at Sesshomaru. She stopped just an inch or two in front of him as dirt flew around her. Much to Sesshomaru's surprise he found himself disappointed by her actions, mainly the one where she stopped herself. Slowly reaching around he pat her own her head having hoped for more contact from the child, "You did well Rin, I missed you greatly."
He glanced up to see both Kagome and her kit standing before them. A small blush was on her cheeks and Sesshomaru could not help but wonder what had caused that. She glanced around the wrecked area, "Would you two like to join us?"
His initial response was to say no, he had things he needed to do and he did not want to be a burden on her. Her pain while walking had been evident from afar and everything in him wanted to push her back into bed where she would experience less. Having learned of her particular brand of stubborn he knew that was not possible, "I am able to for a short time. Inuyasha?" he said fully expecting the half demon to join if only to keep him from Kagome.
Inuyasha though shook his head, "No, I need to speak with Malik about something. You four go on ahead."
Sesshomaru felt his pulse quicken and knew Inuyasha had picked up on it. Even his half demon ears could sense the change in mood when so dramatic no matter how Sesshomaru tried to conceal himself. "Malik?"
Kagome tilted her head to the side too, "But you two hate each other, like a lot."
Inuyasha studied the two further. Inwardly he was still making his assessment about this pairing. As Kagome would call it he was studying the situation before launching himself head first in. It had been a mixed bag of feelings watching as Sesshomaru did indeed patrol the area right around wherever Kagome happened to be. But he could see the stalemate and the choices that lay before all of them. He needed to determine what to do and he could not do that while both of them were to afraid to say what they were thinking. "Yeah but it is security stuff so it will be fine."
Kagome shook her head, "You are tired too and could use a break. It will be a nice little family stroll." The whole group seemed to tense at that and Kagome's face paled as her awareness grew. "I mean, you know…demon, priestess, half-demon and human stroll. Just together. Walking. In the garden."
Inuyasha felt his breath hitch at what she just stated. She had no real idea what she had just offered or insinuated with her words. He doubted Sesshomaru was the only one affected either. Rin clearly adored the woman and Shippo would want nothing more than to have parents again. She also had no idea that she had just lumped them together as family, him included. He remembered wanting that more than anything growing up. He looked again at the four of them and saw that, the family. Parents and their two children. What would he be? The awkward tag along? "No, I-"
Sesshomaru cut him off, "Do not be foolish Inuyasha, you will be joining us and we can discuss this security then."
Inuyasha felt his own stomach turn. Kagome may not have known what she was doing but Sesshomaru did. The demon lord was more than aware of what he said and how he was including Inuyasha in their makeshift family even if it was for a stupid walk. Sesshomaru was giving up alone time with Kagome and inviting Inuyasha. He was acknowledging him not just as pack, but as family. He then understood the underlying message, that he would not be kicked out of the pack if Sesshomaru mated Kagome. In fact, he would always have a place whether Kagome and Sesshomaru were together or not.
Moving over to the group Inuyasha felt a weight lift from him.
Well the son-of-a-bitch had done it. He had gotten a yes.
Firevixen73 – And it shifts like crazy. I am so excited to put Inuyasha in the role of little brother this is amazing for me as a writer. You can also expect some serious Sesshomaru/Kagome happening from here on out. Let's not forget about the war and all these other things though. Please let me know your thoughts as I am always open to suggestions. I think this will probably end in the next couple chapters so I would love to hear your thoughts.