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"My heart is pounding," InuYasha said in a gentle voice and he used one single claw to softly raise Kagome's face to look up at him, "just look at you my beautiful little flower. This dog just found the perfect bone."
"Is it really you InuYasha?" Kagome asked with a small gasp gazing into his eyes, "I can't receive your affections. I am most unworthy. A simple grocery store clerk such as myself could never please a man as smooth and flawless as you. I've only admired you from afar little pup."
"Please my little flower don't ever let me hear you being hard on yourself again," InuYasha let out a small growl, "when I first saw you and caught your scent you reminded me of my beloved Kikyo. Don't be alarmed though my dove such comparisons didn't last long. You are much more beautiful, lively, and I bet your breast have the perkiest- okay this script is horrible."
Kagome was happy to see InuYasha break out of character as he shook his head ripping himself away from her before turning his back. They'd been alone in his bedroom trying to act out some of the scripts his fans sent in to have acted out for charity. It was one thing to have scripts where people could fantasize about InuYasha actually picking a girl for once, but anything that was mentioned Kikyo was probably crossing the line.
"I'm sure they won't mind if we do a few edits," Kagome shrugged going over to his desk and looking at the paper.
"Hmm is that what you think?" InuYasha crossed his arms and gave a stern look, "that I should care about Kikyo's feelings?"
"Well yeah," Kagome rolled her eyes, "is that so bad? I don't think she'd appreciate going online one day to find a video where you're comparing another girl to her."
"Fuck her," he snarled, "at least she talks to me now but what's the point? Stupid woman won't tell me anything. She's up to something I just know it. Naraku apparently just let her go and even if we were to believe that I know she's still poking her nose in trouble and won't even tell us a damn thing."
Kagome sighed sitting on InuYasha's bed looking at the ceiling. Could they do anything anymore without the conversation being about their various enemies? At least InuYasha wasn't taking advantage of the scripts and using them as an excuse to flirt with her or kiss her. That's something he probably would have pulled a while ago, but now they finally seemed to be at a place where they could just be close friends that relied on each other.
InuYasha, however, still had many doubts.
"So does Sesshoumaru know you're in here doing this with me?" InuYasha asked seriously, "I don't want to cause a fight or anything you know."
"I told him. He doesn't care."
"Play your little games if it entertains you," Sesshoumaru had told her when she discussed her and InuYasha's new job for charity, "if you recall our contract states you can do whatever you want with outside men and I cannot not interfere. I do not need to, because you are mine. You will not forget that. You will not do anything to truly dishonor me."
Sesshoumaru trusted her not to take this too far, and Kagome was still uneasy with how to interpret his trust. Either he truly believed she could have this kind of fun with InuYasha without it getting out of hand, or he didn't care. It was only hard to tell because her husband kept going back and forth between being a possessive protective demon and a man that would be just content with everyone leaving him alone with his ants and family obligations.
"Doesn't care?" InuYasha's ears twitched.
InuYasha had accepted that it was Sesshoumaru who Kagome wanted. He or any other man wouldn't be enough for her, but still that didn't make the relationship right. He'd entertained the thought of leaving and rebuilding his life believing his fifteen minutes of fame was up, but with Kagome around he couldn't take that notion seriously. He had no doubt Sesshoumaru would somehow hurt her, and when that happened Kagome needed people around her to help heal.
It was a frustrating position to be in. He had become quite attached to his little newfound niece and for her happiness he had to believe in a Kagome and Sesshoumaru relationship, but at the same time he recognized that the two of them still had a long way to go before understanding each other and all the baggage they brought to the table. InuYasha was unaware Sesshoumaru had tried to warn Kagome on various occasions what he was really like.
"He trusts me," Kagome replied though her tone showed she was quite unsure.
"Kagome are you positive that this is what you want and it isn't some kind of weird infatuation?" he inquired, "you know you two only liking each other because you've been forced into close quarters for so long. I mean I guess you could find him attractive. I'm not a suit guy and I don't have that mysterious demon Lord past."
Kagome shot him a glare, "You think I'm that shallow InuYasha? I only like him for his looks?"
InuYasha caught on that she got upset and quickly got defensive, "Hey! Don't start in on me, okay? I don't know what women are into or why anyone would be into that asshole! Explain it to me then. Why do you actually love him?"
"We don't use that word," Kagome dismissed him.
Sesshoumaru would never use that word to describe their feelings for each other, so she wouldn't either. For him loving a human would probably mean showing weakness as for her it was a way to protect herself. If she never admitted to loving him it'd hurt less when something went array and they could just go back to their arrangement for Rin's sake.
She frowned as her line of thinking was going to the same as place as InuYasha's. Why did she just assume something was going to go wrong? Was it because no matter what they overcame they still had fights over misunderstandings all the time? She'd never been in a relationship before she just didn't what to expect in matters that didn't concern what they'd done in the bedroom.
"That's what I'm talking about," InuYasha growled, "you two can't use the word love? That's not normal! What else is even the point? You're already married and have a kid together so what are you even working towards? I just don't want to see you waste yourself on someone you're not entirely sure about."
They'd already had this conversation. InuYasha had already claimed to be worried she was wasting her youth and fertility on Sesshoumaru.
"Sesshoumaru and I don't do normal," Kagome actually smiled to herself standing up, "I think we accepted that from the beginning. As for what we're working towards? Defeating our enemies and having a happy life. We can never do normal, but honestly I think the two of us would take boring. Boring would feel amazing right about now."
"Boring?"
"Mmhmm," Kagome smiled with a nod before walking out of the room, "can you imagine it InuYasha? Us as a family sitting in the living room not knowing what to watch on TV? That's what I'm working towards."
"Weird girl," InuYasha shook his head.
Scents didn't lie. Kagome was still a virgin. Sesshoumaru and her hadn't gotten far enough apparently though he kept finding scents of arousal. Indeed whatever those two had cooking wasn't normal.
"Sango!" InuYasha yelled at Kagome, "you should invite her over."
Kagome turned back to look at him, "Sango? Why? InuYasha you two didn't exactly hit it off and I'm still pretty sure she's got a thing for Miroku even though she won't ever admit it."
InuYasha blushed, "Stupid! I don't want you to invite her over for me. For you! Fine don't listen to reason when it comes to Sesshoumaru but don't close yourself off either. You gotta keep your friends around ya know? Don't be that creepy girl that disappears off the face of the planet once you got your man. Gotta share yourself with the world. Sesshoumaru don't deserve to have you to himself the whole time."
Maybe InuYasha had a point. She wasn't going to discredit herself and believe she was only attracted to Sesshoumaru because they were living together, because if that were the deciding factor she'd probably fall for InuYasha since he seemed a tad bit less complicated. Still, however, she couldn't let him be her whole world. That would only add to the frustration. Sango though? Would she even accept an invitation? Last time she was over Rin had died and Sesshoumaru hadn't given a great impression of himself.
"You should summon the girl."
Kagome shuddered as Sesshoumaru's voice came from behind her. No matter how close she got to her husband she still couldn't prepare herself for him always coming up behind her or in front of her when she believed it was safe to walk the hallways.
"You should mind your business and stop hiding outside of doors eavesdropping on me," Kagome pouted embarrassed that he'd snuck on her again.
"Hmm," Sesshoumaru rose an eyebrow not aware of what he'd done this time to upset her, "I have one final debate tonight. You can't come with me, and after what I just overheard I no longer trust you alone with InuYasha."
"And exactly what did you overhear?" Kagome shot him a glare, "the script or InuYasha lecturing me about my odd choice in men? Why can't I come? I'm your trophy human wife, remember? You married me for both Rin and an easy ride to make yourself look good."
Sesshoumaru decided not to give an opinion on what she and InuYasha had been up to, "Your internet show with InuYasha has called too much attention to yourself. I will not leave you to be prey to Naraku, your former cult, or someone who disagrees with our marriage. You'll no longer be accompanying me to such events Kagome."
It was true. Just moments after her and InuYasha's 'Ask Me Anything' had ended they were all over the news. Him for giving an answer on why he sabotaged the finale of his reality show and her for putting a spotlight on the Divine Order and having a confrontation with Inukimi. Kagome, of course, tried to ignore all opinions and feedback regarding it. She got and learned all she needed to from the experience and wasn't going to worry herself over what was being said about her.
Sesshoumaru continued to be impressed by his wife, but wouldn't let her know. Ever since social media had been introduced to humans and demons alike the few creatures he'd socialized with were obsessed with anything said about them but Kagome had an amazing ability to steer away from anything that didn't benefit her. He hoped her projects with InuYasha didn't corrupt her online innocence. His family name had been sullied the moment InuYasha and his mother got their hands on social media already he didn't want to see Kagome fall down that hole.
Kagome sighed, "I probably can't convince you otherwise can I?"
"No you cannot. It's for your own safety. Are you disappointed? There was once a time where appearing as my 'trophy wife', as you call it, displeased you. You wish to go back to being dressed up and being on my arm?"
"No," she crossed her arms, "I hate that part. I just thought you needed me was all."
"Miroku has outlined platforms I find agreeable and I do not back down to an enemy so I should be able to handle this on my own."
"Well I don't know much about town politics but I don't think anyone is really impressed by Hojo. I mean he is young and kind of cute, but probably naive as all get out to have never looked into the Divine Order or asked why there are so many undocumented demons always running amok."
"Kind of cute?" Sesshoumaru questioned, "so Naraku's influence truly has disappeared from you if you are finding an average human male attractive."
"Disappointed?" Kagome asked in a mocking tone trying to mimic Sesshoumaru, "I said cute not attractive. He's just got a boyish face is all."
"My face isn't 'boyish' enough for you?"
Kagome smiled. That was kind of adorable. Was Sesshoumaru actually jealous of a man she'd never even been around? Being new to having a real relationship, and especially with someone so possessive, a piece of her secretly wish she had some other suitor that wasn't InuYasha just to see how Sesshoumaru would react. Two brothers being against each other was just uncomfortable.
"Boyish means they look all innocent like a middle schooler in a man's body I think," she tried to explain, "that is not how anyone would ever describe you. Icicle would be a good word for you. Kind of cold, but at least you're still a man."
"Icicle?" Sesshoumaru still didn't understand why she was fond of such descriptors when talking about another.
"You really are cute sometimes Sesshoumaru. No matter what you tell me about your past all I can see is the guy who that gets caught up on little things like that. It's like a small child watching the news for the first time. Maybe that's why I like you. You make me feel less stupid."
"Are you implying I am less educated than one who couldn't complete standard human education? You'll be-
"Punished. Yeah I know. Better get on with it. Not going to have much time to play around with me or your beloved ants when you become Mayor. Who would have thought a little simple minded peasant like me would have become a Mayor's wife. I hope next term I can wear my best sundress as I host a bake sale to raise campaign funds for you."
"Kagome your mocking tone is not appreciated. I would have assumed that marrying a heir to the vast Masaharu fortune would have been more of an impressive claim. As for how I will be able to manage both my family and career there will be no issue. I do not require sleep as often as you do and can accomplish many tasks within my bedroom."
"So I can look forward to falling asleep next to a quiet statue-like man typing away at his laptop? Joy."
"That is not what I plan to be doing in our bedroom. I believe by now it is safe for you engage in such activities when it comes to your pill solution. It's time."
Kagome's eyes widened, "I-uh well yeah we're past seven days, but- like I said there doesn't need to be a deadline. It happens when it happens Sesshoumaru. I highly doubt you'd be in the mood with everything you got going on, right?"
Sesshoumaru looked at her for only a moment before placing a hand to her chest letting one finger glide down her body, "It's not my mood I am concerned with. Only yours. You're ready to receive me."
Sesshoumaru had done his best to train his wife for her first time. He had her complete loyalty and showed her it was okay to accept the pleasure he promised her. Only thing to deal with now is her constant need to make excuses to put things off even further. There needed to be a deadline, because knowing the two of them it would never happen if they gave way to excuses.
"It pleases me that my wife has such faith in me," Sesshoumaru managed a chuckle as his claw went back to her left breast and began circling where her nipple was hiding under a layer of clothing, "you believe you will indeed become a Mayor's wife. You will honor me and reward me for my victory with your body. I deserve that much."
"Deserve?" Kagome glared at him trying to ignore his touch, "that's a stretch there. I don't owe you anything last I checked for all the headaches you give me on a regular basis."
"You'll be begging me for the favor when my hands treat your body again. I'll have you Kagome. Sabotaging yourself will do yourself no good either. It was simply a courtesy I showed you allowing you time to obtain those pills. If you fail to take them and put yourself at risk that is no concern of mine. You know where I stand. It would please me much to see your stomach swell up with my seed."
His hand had traveled to her stomach as Kagome stepped back ready to go for the finishing blow.
"So you can have a child to always have a part of me right?" she recalled what Rin had said about Sesshoumaru's desires.
Sesshoumaru's gaze grew cold as he moved her hand away. She'd found his weakness ruining the moment. His authoritative status when it came to making demands of her was sullied by her knowing his motivations that was no one's business but his own.
A growl distracted them both as InuYasha glared at the two of them, "You know you're both still outside of my door AND THE DOOR IS OPEN! I'M RIGHT HERE!"
Sesshoumaru moved away from InuYasha narrowing his eyes, "And 'your room' is in my house so if the way I handle my wife displeases you you're free to leave. At least having you under my roof is more tolerable than I'd imagined it'd be, because often times I forget you're even here. You are no concern to me."
"Oh really?" InuYasha crossed his arm raising his eyebrow, "maybe I'll go out tonight then. You don't need me so Kagome can protect herself."
"You believe you hold status with me InuYasha? Only value I see in you is the Tetsusagia. If you wish to leave my family to their own devices when danger is at my door than feel free to live with that decision. I am capable of getting trustworthy individuals to look after her. I do not require you."
InuYasha snarled actually putting his claws up in a offensive manner, "You really think highly of yourself don't you Sesshoumaru? Trustworthy individuals? You actually found Janis trustworthy even when you knew she had loyalty to Kaguya. You let her in the house. Allowed her to give Rin that damn rabbit toy. Do I need to remind you what happened to Rin under YOUR protection?"
InuYasha actually smirked proud of himself for bringing up points against Sesshoumaru. He wasn't going to be treated like dirt from his brother. InuYasha had made many mistakes, but he he hadn't been directly responsible for anyone getting hurt. His purpose that Kikyo wanted him to find was protecting this family and in his opinion he hadn't failed.
Kagome had to watch as both the brothers were now growling at each other looking as though they'd tear each other apart. So much for her belief that this arrangement had done anything for their relationship.
"Stop!" she ordered the two of them, "InuYasha isn't going anywhere and you're going to stop acting like he's worthless when he's not! I feel safe with him, and InuYasha what's done is done. Constantly reminding Sesshoumaru of what happened isn't going to help. If I were in his position I probably would have done the same thing when it came to Janis. I use to consider her somewhat a friend myself."
"Do you feel safer with him than you do I?" Sesshoumaru asked her looking away from his brother.
"Don't compare yourself!" Kagome wasn't going to entertain where he'd possibly take that conversation to, "you made it clear I can't come with you tonight so I'll stay with InuYasha until you come back. That's how it's been this whole time and it's fine."
"Very well," Sesshoumaru surprised her shutting his eyes before looking back to his brother, "if she believes you haven't failed her yet than I shall also leave the guarding of Tensagia to you as well. I cannot go to the debate with a sword at my side."
Kagome was indeed shocked. He never let the Tensagia out of his sight since learning it was the only thing that could stand up against Kaguya's celestial powers, but he was going to trust his younger brother with it?
"Does this please you?" Sesshoumaru asked her, "he earned your trust so you can blame yourself if something goes wrong. I will not be made a target this time. Just understand this, leaving you behind is what's best for you. I am the one who is charged with such decisions. Not him. You being by my side would allow me to keep my mind clear, but yet I made the sacrifice."
Kagome claimed to not know anything about politics, and thus was regulated to the role of supportive wife. However, despite all of Sesshoumaru's constant research into topics and other political figures he found comfort in his wife's advice. He'd been more concerned with his reputation and way others would view him in a public manner than he did with his viewpoints and how people would base their vote on them. If not for Kagome's earlier advice urging him to declare his interests he wouldn't have been able to build a proper campaign. He wanted Kagome with him to tell him his responses to the debate were right or wrong, but wouldn't be afforded with that comfort this evening.
"Is he saying he needs me?" Kagome asked herself.
Finally. He'd already said they needed to work together to rid the world of Kaguya and Naraku, but then would always backtrack and act like her light wasn't much of a factor and wasn't worth keeping around. Things could be different now, however, as he finally admitted she could do more for him than simply please him. He couldn't take it back now that he'd said it in front of both her and InuYasha. What he was taking back was his proclamation that InuYasha was nothing to him. InuYasha had made fair points and had to have proven himself by this point. Trusting his younger brother with her protection all for the purpose of earning favor with her was just an excuse. Didn't Sesshoumaru know better by this point? The two of them were getting so much better at detecting each other's deflections now.
"I'll be watching you on the TV," Kagome told him, "you can text me when you get a chance alright? I'll keep my phone close."
"Hmm," was all he said in response, "I need to get dressed."
"Don't you dare wear them!" Kagome shot at him at the moment he headed towards his bedroom.
"Wear what?" Sesshoumaru asked.
"You know what I'm talking about don't play dumb."
"She means your stupid glasses," InuYasha said still unaware of how Sesshoumaru went from looking like he wanted to kill him to trusting him.
Last event Sesshoumaru had taken part in he decided to wear glasses to make himself look more professional. Of course they weren't prescription since he had perfect eyesight, so there was no reason for it other than vanity and anyone that knew anything about demons would call him out for it. Kagome didn't believe he looked professional at all. They made Sesshoumaru look like a stereotypical anime character that would push his glasses up his face anytime he needed to say something profound. Indeed he could pull off a suit quite well, but she didn't want him completely discarding his reputation with her as a dangerous demon Lord.
"I will wear what I want to wear," Sesshoumaru told them going on his way, "I will not be controlled in this regard."
"If he wants to look like an ass on TV let him do what he wants Kagome," InuYasha smiled at her, "come on let's get ready for tonight. We can have ourselves a little party. I'll make sure it's as boring as you want to be little sister."
"Don't call me that," Kagome turned her head, "it just sounds really wrong."
"Hey you had a choice and I'm honoring your decision," InuYasha smirked glad he finally found a way to tease her, "let's go see what Rin and Shippou are up to sis."
"Stop! Or I'm attaching you to the table again!"
Sesshoumaru's family wasn't the only one putting together a little party to watch Sesshoumaru's debate against Hojo, the current Mayor of Avalon. Inukimi had relaxed in his son's former condo with the television in front of her holding a cup of wine. Of course, wine could barely do anything to a demon such as herself to dull the senses, but it still made her feel quite classy. She was trying to demonstrate her status as a Queen in front of her guest, newfound best friend, Byakuya.
"I truly hope The Spider doesn't do anything to interfere with my son's campaign," Inukimi mused to herself, "I can't keep saving him."
"My father only wanted to run for Mayor to have another project to keep his mind busy," Byakuya informed her putting his drink on the table, "after that display at the festival I think he's done with silly games. I can't for the life of me even recall what the goal of that was. To get Sesshoumaru kicked out of Avalon to raise some sort of separation anxiety in Kagome? I haven't a clue."
Byakuya had decided to tell Inukimi everything. If Kagura could go around revealing their father's secrets to Sesshoumaru he could confide in his new friend and role model Inukimi. She'd already made a promise she wouldn't interfere in any of Naraku's plans as though he was no threat to her family. Instead she just found the tale of his relentless quest to kill Midoriko's reincarnations fascinating as well as how he'd managed to create both the Black Dragons and Divine Order. However, he didn't let her in on exactly what was going on with the sacred jewel. Naraku wanted that to be his business and his business alone.
"Byakuya are you a commoner?" Inukimi glared at him, "use a coaster."
"Your table is made of metal," Byakuya rolled his eyes.
"It's still so unsophisticated," Inukimi sighed, "I expected better of you."
Byakuya used one of his origami papers that he always kept in his pocket to sneak under his glass. She didn't even have coasters so didn't understand why she was so upset.
"Oh Sesshoumaru," Inukimi sighed waiting for her son to come on the television, "I still don't see why you have to be such a mystery to me. I wish you'd just tell me what you really want. Why can't you be more like your father? That dog was nothing more than a child in a man's body at the end of the day, but at least I knew where he stood. Sesshoumaru one time said he wanted to be like his father, that's such a joke. It means he didn't even truly know the man. What of you Byakuya? What's your relationship with the Spider? I'm sure he is quite disappointed in you. I enjoy your company but you're not the kind of offspring most powerful demons envision themselves siring."
"What are you implying?" Byakuya was used to Inukimi's sly insults by this point, "because I don't have a big burly body with fangs and claws I am a disappointment? Goshinki has those traits and father barely thinks of him. If he were disappointmented in me he hasn't made that clear. He relies on me far too often."
"Or relies on your abilities. Forgive me I am simply curious on how sons perceive their fathers."
"Just my abilities hmm?" Byakuya asked himself staring at the origami paper, "perhaps. Then again Goshinki can read minds and would probably solve a lot of problems. However that would be too easy. Father doesn't like things too easy."
"Father," a young Byakuya was walking with Naraku to the Divine Order administrative building after having been picked on by the other kids before Kagome stood up for him, "am I really disappointing? Should I have stood up for myself? Goshinki would have tore that boy's head off. Is that what you want from me?"
Naraku lowered his gaze at his son, "Goshinki is a brute and nothing more. His actions is why he doesn't live with you and Kagura. His abilities to read minds could be useful and I could find better ways to control him, but that is not the kind of father I wish to be. If he wants to be a brutal demon using his gifts to terrify his prey he can stay in Fangvale. I prefer your company. You didn't inherit my ill qualities. You're fine the way you are."
"I am?" Byakuya seemed surprised.
The young child tried not to show it, but was always worried with how others perceive him. He was always being called a girl, because he didn't want to boss around the girls and play sports with the others. He'd been worried his father would begin to hate him thinking he was ruining his reputation.
"Byakuya," Naraku then stopped in a secluded area behind one of the apartments, "obviously you're important to me. If you weren't I wouldn't have confided in you as much as I have up to this point. I do not want to see you unhappy. Kagura either. You're both my children no matter what kind of abilities you two wind up with."
"What about-
"However things need to change," Naraku interrupted him, "you make me proud because I know you won't make any apologies for who are. I am proud of Kagura because despite everything she went through she hasn't lost her independence even at such a young age. I need to continue with my goal in this life and when both of you have to witness my true nature I fully expect you two to betray me. Honestly what would disappointment me most is if you two don't. It'd mean I taught you both nothing. However, I cannot tolerate you two turning on me now. Not yet. You almost told Kagome the truth didn't you?"
Byakuya's eyes turned to worry, "Father you promised you'd leave her alone. You said you wouldn't hurt her. I was there when you promised."
Naraku shook his head, "As I said things have changed. I cannot forgive Midoriko for this. It doesn't matter to me who pinned me to the tree with that arrow. That woman is nothing more than a manipulative coward. Everything about her was fake and she doesn't get a free pass just because she's hiding inside Kagome. Well I am not who she thinks I am. I won't be forced to obey her and betray myself because of my emotions. I will rise above this."
Byakuya frowned. He already knew what his father was going to ask him what to do. He didn't want to do it, because he knew his father wouldn't be the same person after the deed was done. Still, he was nothing more than a child. It wasn't like he could disobey the man that was taking care of him and training him to use his powers.
"You want me to erase your memory don't you?" Byakuya asked, "that whole night?"
"Everything," Naraku told him, "Midoriko telling me the truth, your mother, Kagome, and anything else that leaves my mind unclear of what I need to do. That bitch will suffer."
"If that's what you want," Byakuya sighed to himself clearly disappointed, "I'm still just a child and my powers can only do much."
"I doubt very much my memories will return," Naraku was confident in his son's abilities, "Byakuya I am the one that is a disappointment to you. I will always be a slave to the demons in my mind and body crying out for revenge. I cannot fight them. I will not be forced into submission by that woman. If the only good I am capable of doing for this world is having a few children that are free to be whoever they wish to be than I shall feel no regret when I taint everything around me in pure despair. Do as I ask of you Byakuya."
His father was getting that scary look on his face. The one he would get when he fell to his nature of a spider demon and made plans to hurt someone. This always seemed to happen every time his father did something decent. For this reason he told all his children at a young age to never fall into the habit of absorbing other demons for power. As long as his body was made up of that tainted demonic energy he could never think for himself.
"I'll do it," Byakuya said mournfully taking one of the pieces of paper and transmitting his aura to it, "but I don't think it will work the way you want it to. There is still time for you father."
"Give it time," Naraku snatched the piece of paper of Byakuya and replayed all the memories he wanted to forget in his head, "eventually you'll see me as the monster I really am."
Naraku had to relive everything in order for his memories to be imprinted upon the piece of paper. Midoriko's spirit telling him the truth about Kaguya's trick, what happened the night he killed Kagura and Byakuya's mother, and most importantly the moment he gave Kagome her name.
Once he was done he handed the piece of paper back to Byakuya and watched his son skillfully turn the paper now filled with good memories into a simple crane. With every fold one of the memories would be ripped away from Naraku little at a time until the figure was complete.
"You're probably confused," Byakuya sighed presenting the crane in his hands, "but they are still right here. If you want your memories back you just got to unfold the paper."
Naraku was indeed confused, but didn't think on it long before taking the crane from his son's hands and ripping the bird apart. If he commissioned his son to take his memories away there was obviously a good reason for it.
"Byakuya," Naraku smirked not even giving the pieces of paper another glance, "I am glad you no longer wish to be on that playground parading around as a normal child. It's time for you to fully fall into the fold. That girl will live to regret standing up for you one day when she sees the horror your father has planned for her. I can sense Midoriko's soul in her. Her fear and pain is what I desire most. Pity she is still so young and not quite ready to be tainted yet, but soon I shall rip her heart out."
Byakuya would be unable to give Inukimi any sort of answer when it came to what a son saw in their father, because the one real moment he had with his had been wiped away. At least Byakuya still had hope that it had been real. His father could have just been using him for his abilities this whole time and had no desire to see his children free and happy but rather his slaves. That was how Kagura perceived it anyway. As for him he was never expected to do anything cruel to anyone only acting as a spy and messenger when the occasion called for it. Byakuya was quite content in his role.
"And here I was looking for one of those grand tales where a son makes great sacrifices to earn his father's respect," Inukimi sighed to herself, "what a bore. Don't worry. I still see you as my friend. My garden will be the envy of all thanks to you."
"That's what friends are for," Byakuya gave her a smile, "helping each other. Speaking of which, I was wondering if I could dare ask the demon Queen for a favor?"
"I don't have money," Inukimi huffed, "the only advantage of having a son that doesn't think about you is that he forgot to stop paying for my internet and electricity. Apparently those amenities are not free in a home such as this one."
"This modern world must be so complicated for you," Byakuya tried to soothe her, "do not fret though my lady. I just wish to simply borrow a bit of demonic energy from a small medio you can create. I hear that's what the stone you wear around your neck is capable of creating."
"Oh this?" Inukimi asked removing the medio stone from her neck, "this was what I got in exchange for mating Sesshoumaru's father and sharing my abilities with him. This stone is rumored to have existed long before both human and demon kind and gave birth to the world of the dead in the first place. It came into existence along with the concept of life itself to create a balance. It is indeed a treasured possession. However, it has grown quite out of fashion. It was something of envy many centuries ago but not in this new modern world. I tire of being responsible for it. Here you can have it."
Byakuya looked on in complete disbeliefas Inukimi dropped the medio stone into his hands, "It would be an honor to relieve your burden of its powers my lady. However, you misunderstand me. All I needed was to witness its power not take it for myself. You should really keep it. I'd hate for you to be perceived as weak without it and be attacked."
"Please," Inukimi waved a hand dismissing such a thought, "I've never once used the medio stone against the competition. If one wishes to see me as weak I'll correct them using my claws. It's simply a thank you present for keeping me company. I trust you'll be responsible with it."
Inukimi really wasn't too worried about giving the medio stone to another. It was true when one mastered its abilities they could cause mass destruction to their world sentencing whole nations to the netherworld in one stroke, but it'd take centuries for Byakuya to get anywhere near that amount of control over it. For now he'd simply only be able to make small portals until he eventually got bored of it. She just didn't see this man as the power hungry type that would abuse it.
Byakuya was still in disbelief that he was incharge of the medio stone now when he would have never been bold enough to make such a demand. He always assumed Inukimi was the entertaining kind of crazy and not the complete mental case her enemies made her out to be. Did she not realize what she'd just done? She had just put a power of unlimited potential right into the enemy's hands.
"One more thing Byakuya," Inukimi went back to her wine as the debate was about to start, "if that power falls into the hands of your father and is used to hurt my son or wife think carefully on your actions."
"Will you seek revenge?"
"No. Sesshoumaru will. Whatever scheme you have cooking I am confident they'll overcome it. Things are different now. I feel it. Call it mother's intuition. Also next time my bastard stepson and Sesshoumaru's bride have one of their internet streams please refrain from calling the girl a peasant. I still don't know if I like her or not yet, but she is still a family member."
"I was just falling in line with your adoring fans," Byakuya smiled to himself putting the medio stone in his pocket, "I like Kagome. Always have, and I agree with you. They'll overcome this scheme. I'm not too worried."
Even Sesshoumaru was growing on him. Byakuya regretted taking away his mokomoko, but orders were orders. He'd probably lose his job when Sesshoumaru won the election and that was fine. Border patrol wasn't exactly his passion in life.
Naraku always believed his children would betray him one day, and so far that had become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Goshinki lived his life as a blood thirsty demon without any regard to his father's wishes, Juromaru seemed to be content with life enough in the Divine Order and refused to lend any of his demonic powers to any schemes, Kagura tried to expose secrets to Sesshoumaru, and now Byakuya was making his move. He was going to take the title of keeper of the medio stone seriously. He would keep the power for himself with no intentions of sharing it with either his father or the infant representing the interests of the sacred jewel. He wouldn't allow this power to be abused.
Just one medio was all he needed to give them for everyone to come out of this whole ghastly situation satisfied.
Finally on the television after Hojo had been introduced as the incumbent Mayor fighting to retain his position Sesshoumaru was brought on stage. Inukimi simply gave a smirk as Rin back in her father's house put a hand on the television.
"Sesshoumaru got in the TV!" Rin cheered.
"Hands off the TV you runt," InuYasha sighed, "you've seen both your parents on the news plenty of times. Stop being such a child."
"You're a child!" Rin snapped at her uncle going back to the floor where her and Shippou had been coloring.
They did indeed have a little party going on the living room. Kagome, InuYasha, and the kids were there joined by three guests. Sango had reluctantly taken Kagome up on her invitation. She wasn't happy that Kagome apparently forgave Sesshoumaru for putting Rin in danger, but at the same time didn't want to lose contact with the little girl. It helped that Miroku was there to witness how the debate would play out and if Sesshoumaru would lower himself to following a human's advice. Both InuYasha and Miroku being around Sango should have made things awkward as Miroku was still upset that the woman he was interested in had slept with the reality star, but the third guest kept most the awkward air around herself.
Kikyo had come at InuYasha's invitation. He was just as shocked as everyone else that she'd actually come. Maybe it was because on their last phone call he accused her of still being Naraku's prisoner since she was still keeping to herself and not telling them anything.
Indeed Kikyo had come as a courtesy to InuYasha to let him know she was still alive and well, but as usual there was another motivation behind her visit. Not only would being around InuYasha make her feel alive again after she was forced to give birth to some foreign creature she refused to even lay eyes on, but she did owe everyone an explanation. Tonight when they were alone she intended to tell Kagome everything she knew about the sacred jewel as well as expose the fate of Kaguya. Kagome and Sesshoumaru needed to at least know what they were truly up against.
Both InuYasha and Kagome had tried to keep their attentions on Sesshoumaru and what he would say in front of all those people, but Kikyo had become a distraction. Apparently according to InuYasha's sense of smell she wasn't pregnant anymore. Kagome's mind filled with worry that she might've had a miscarriage, but if it had been something else it really wasn't their business so it was best to not bring it up.
"I pride myself being the Mayor of a town that has become a beacon of progression," Hojo had begun to make his point, "Avalon is not a place that discriminates against demons welcoming many of them within our borders as friends and citizens. If I were just an observer perhaps I'd even see the appeal of casting a vote for my opponent, but I find myself as one that must uphold tradition. This is still a human territory free from the influence of creatures that once threatened our species. I feel that if we elect a demon into office it will send a message to the evil doers believing our territories can easily be not only won over but taken over."
"Tradition and progression do not belong in the same point," Sesshoumaru fired back ignoring all the cheers of agreement Hojo had received, "if you wish to uphold tradition you are making a statement that you cannot change or adjust to the world around you. Such a man would be unfit to hold office."
"Are you accusing me of being a bigot?" Hojo had the kind of face where it was impossible to hide how nervous he felt going against Sesshoumaru, "the people know this isn't true. I have many demon friends. Facts are still facts, however, and as long as demons in territories such as Fangvale prove themselves to be hostile towards our kind a division will always be necessary."
"If it's safety the people are concerned with," Sesshoumaru pushed his glasses up the brim of his nose, "then who better to look after your people than one who knows how those demons think. You can keep the secrets of your barriers to yourselves. I have no interest in them and will leave that to the human officials incharge of them. I do not require magic or technology when it comes to your nightmares. I will patrol the town myself if that is what it takes to let the people know their safety is paramount."
"Why are you wearing the glasses?" Kagome sighed to herself sending Sesshoumaru a text berating him for the choice.
"He can look intimidating all that he wants," Sango crossed her arms, "Hojo brings up good points. Giving a creature that we live in fear of all the power kind of ruins the whole point."
"Now now," Miroku felt the need to defend his client, "humans and demons lived together before a place like Avalon even existed and our kind always found a way not to be pushed around. There will always be a balance."
"He must be paying you a lot for you to sound so stupid," Sango sighed, "yeah sure once in a while you'd get a Midoriko or talented demon slayer but that isn't much of a balance. What about all the kingdoms and villages that were probably devoured on a regular basis. I really don't want to live in that kind of world in the name of progression. What is that?"
Sango was referring to Kirara who had followed Buyo into the living room. Apparently those two had become friends now. Kagome was still trying to get rid of the demon cat and find her a home with humans, but the only offers she'd got were people that planned on putting her on display again just as she had been in the zoo. Sesshoumaru was quite disappointed in her for failing to deliver on her promise, but what did he want from her? She wanted the neko to have a good home.
"One of those evil human devouring demons," Kagome didn't hide her anger at Sango's statements, "her name is Kirara and she likes catnip just like Buyo. Want her?"
"No cats allowed in the apartment Kagome," Sango made sure her tone was just as biting as she tried to ignore the cute little demon.
"I'm a demon," Shippou stated looking up at Sango, "I don't eat people."
"I'm not talking about you," Sango sighed knowing she was making herself look bad, "I've been close to demons way before Kagome married Sesshoumaru. You all know that. I'm just saying I don't think it's proper for a demon to be incharge of human politics."
"What do you think Kikyo?" InuYasha asked as the woman had barely said a word all night.
Kikyo looked to the ground, "There is evil and good in us all. You could elect an evil demon as easily as you could elect an evil human. History has shown us time and time again the right charismatic human in the right time and place can obtain the power to kill as many humans as a demon can. It makes no difference to me."
"I agree," Miroku smirked trying to lighten up the mood knowing something was off about Kikyo and everyone could see it.
"You say you're going to protect us all and we are to trust you?" Hojo's tone still showed he was unsure with his own stance, "we don't know you Sesshoumaru. All you've made known is that you have the funds to buy yourself an election and you helped a fellow demon turn his wolf den into a landmark. All there is left to discover is that you're the son of a woman that is Queen to many violent demons. If she has influence over them how do we know she doesn't influence over you and you're not just doing your bidding."
Sesshoumaru took a moment to imagine what his mother's reaction to that statement would be. He was sure she was probably cursing at the TV looking for someone to blame for her plan being so obvious. He was about to make to make a reply when his ears could pick up a statement from a random Hojo supporter in the audience.
"That's gotta be it!" the man had yelled to all that would listen, "he married his wife for the citizenship so they can kill us all."
Yes. That had been the plan all along. That statement took Sesshoumaru all the way back to when this all started. His only goal had been to take Rin into his custody to secure her future out of obligation as she was of his blood. When Kikyo had suggested that marriage would be a compromise to the dispute he looked to use Kagome as a ticket to power. How foolish that had all been if some random human in the crowd had saw through everything. He wondered what this debate would have been like if he didn't have affection towards the girl. He would have lost all confidence and retreated into being a true 'icicle' relying on only rehearsed lines to get out of the situation and hope his money would be enough to buy the election. Luckily he wasn't in that position.
"My mother has no influence on me," Sesshoumaru stated hoping that Inukimi was indeed watching, "my mother has no influence on anyone. She fought for power and now has to fight to keep it. There is no trust in that society only someone stronger than you forcing you into a way of thinking. That is not how it is done here and I wish to uphold all values you humans cherish. If you cannot put your trust in me do not vote for me. It is your right. I will still protect this city with or without your help. I owe it to my wife. This is her home and I will not have her living in fear anymore. Anything about my nature that you humans wish to misunderstand or vilify has been calmed by that woman. Her and my child is all there is in my world now. I wish to not disappoint them by leaving this town in the hands of an incompetent human."
"Sesshoumaru," Kagome whispered to herself knowing her husband wasn't just making some artificial statement.
"His whole world huh?" Sango looked angry shaking her head, "yeah we'll be so safe with him. Last I checked Rin wasn't being killed by attacking demons before he came into her life. You didn't need to be locked away and hidden from the world for your own safety. All he's ever done is make things worse for you Kagome."
"You don't know anything!" Kagome had enough and turned to glare at Sango, "it's all my fault alright! In more ways than just one! I've been a bad friend Sango. Not for ignoring your advice and leaving him, but for not telling you the truth. Sango you and Kouga did so much for me. I'll never forget it. It's always been you helping me. Watching Rin when I went to work and getting taking care of me when I got out of the Divine Order. I couldn't tell you about what was happening because I didn't want to bother you with anymore of my drama. I'd rather have you leave here mad at me than abandon me or get tired of me."
Sango was indeed confused. What was Kagome talking about it all being her fault?
"Abandon you?" Sango didn't understand, "Kagome I won't even abandon you. You don't owe me anything for taking you out of that place. Look at you. You want to help women in the Divine Order now that you can and you wouldn't expect anything in return from them so why would I?"
"You have your own life though," Kagome said quietly a couple of tears showing themselves, "it can't be easy supporting yourself the way you do and I already took up so much of your time. I didn't have the right to ask for help again. It's not fair to you."
"Kagome," Sango knew that something serious must've been happening, "there isn't a limit on my friendship. I don't care what it is I want to know how I can help you. You'd never turn your back on me if I were in your shoes. Remember when Kohaku was sick in the hospital and you told Naraku you had the flu just so you could skip work and bring me food and keep me company? I also didn't see anyone else volunteering to stay up with me all night mailing out T-shirts and protein shakes when I needed help. We help each other Kagome. I can't help you though if you don't tell me what's wrong. If I pulled that kind of thing I know you'd berate me until I stopped being stubborn, so why are you doing it?"
Kagome wiped her tears still unsure if she should tell the truth. Sango was just so strong and never afraid of anything, and Kagome would just look so weak in comparison. Sango had met her when she was a victim, and here she was a victim again. Another selfish desire had tainted Kagome's heart. She didn't want her friend looking down on her, so she forced her to worry and misunderstand Sesshoumaru. As much as she wanted to keep Sango out of all of this she had to face the darkness within her heart if she was to overcome this and finally stop being a victim.
"That woman that attacked Rin," Kagome said quietly knowing Rin wouldn't appreciate it being brought up again, "was Kagura."
"Your co-worker?" Sango's eyes widened.
Kagome nodded, "Remember when I told you about the rumor that was Kagura was Naraku's daughter that left the Divine Order? It's all true. Naraku is a demon and so is she. Naraku gave me a job to keep me close. He wants me dead. It has nothing to do with Sesshoumaru. I'm some kind of target for a sick game he wants to play. He is responsible for what happened to Rin. Sesshoumaru was only trying to protect us. Did he go about it the right way? No, of course he didn't, but where would we be without him? I wouldn't have been able to protect Rin from Kagura or bring her back to life. You couldn't have either. I need him Sango. Demons are coming to hurt my family with or without him, and loving him I guess is just an added bonus to this whole thing. I can forgive him, so I wish you could. I'd like to see you happy for me instead of being sad that I'm just a scared little weakling again."
"If that's how you feel Kagome then I am happy for you. You should have told me before. I don't think you're a weakling, but if Sesshoumaru was really just trying to protect you I can't hate him. I can be angry at him but I won't hate him. I can't promise you that I can go weilding a sword against Naraku or anything, but I'm always here to talk to when things get hard."
Both Kagome and Sango were glad all of that was off their shoulders and Sango could now finally understand Sesshoumaru wasn't some kind of a monster. True he'd married her out of convenience, but things had changed now. The only thing he left out of his statement on television was that in his world she and Rin had to make room for his millions of ants he took care of, but she was getting use to that.
"And I'll still be there to help you ship out your packages when you get behind," Kagome told Sango before looking back at the TV, "and I bet Sesshoumaru would help by berating us and telling us we've been doing it wrong and we're not efficient enough. Then again I wouldn't count on it. Not if he wins this thing. It's so stupid. He already told me he doesn't even want this. He just wants his dumb Mokomoko back. I don't even know what it is still, but if it's that important to him I'll support him either way."
"If he doesn't win I'll find a picture," InuYasha sighed giving up as he'd already tried explaining what it was about a hundred times by this point, "you hens done clucking away now? Everything good?"
InuYasha had to catch a pillow mid air that Kagome had chucked at him. He'd take that as a yes.
"Just making sure you're okay," InuYasha gave her a smile, "I was worried cause you're actually sounding normal for once. Did you even notice what you said? You love Sesshoumaru. Thought you two didn't use that word."
Kagome blushed. Had she said that? She loved Sesshoumaru? No she refused to even acknowledge or entertain that idea. It just wouldn't be fair. If he couldn't admit to loving her than she'd never stoop that low. She wasn't going to be seen as a girl proclaiming love for a guy that didn't love her back. That wasn't how relationships were supposed to work. At least that's what she kept telling herself still being inexperienced in this field using only romances she'd seen on TV as an example. Honestly she didn't even know what love was between a man and a woman having had her view shaped by her upbringing and the media. All she knew was that Sesshoumaru made her smile when he acted ridiculous and he made her body feel good. She enjoyed being the object of his affection and did everything they should to make him know she wanted to be by his side. He was quite capable of hurting her as he'd done in the past, but whenever they overcame it things always felt better afterwards as they learned more about each other. Was that love?
"I'm trying to listen," Kagome snapped at InuYasha eyes glued back to the TV.
Hojo and Sesshoumaru had gone back and forth after Hojo made it clear he was quite insulted by being called incompetent. He made tried to tell everyone Sesshoumaru had no right to make such claims as he was new to Avalon and hadn't yet realized how it was one of the safest human territories in the world under his leadership.
"Safe?" Sesshoumaru rose an eyebrow, "you throw that label around so easily. Imagine this city had no demon citizens. Would it earn such a label only because there have been no major demon attacks? A while I ago I attempted to enjoy your city's zoo with my family for a normal outing only to discover my wife had been attacked by muggers."
Hojo flinched, "Our city's violent crime rate is at an all time low. Are you sure you're not mistaken? I haven't heard anything about your wife getting attacked. Wouldn't that have been reported to the authorities?"
"A stranger scared them off," Sesshoumaru's voice showed disgust recalling it had been Naraku that protected her, "and she was too embarrassed to admit it. I wouldn't have known if I didn't see the bruises and cuts she got from the attack. I would never call a place where a woman can't simply walk to her car on her own at night safe. Even if it hadn't happened there is still the fact that my wife is not with me tonight because I don't trust your supporters or the 'real' bigots around her without me to protect her. It isn't safe enough for her to be here tonight. I can't trust the woman anywhere on her own as she lacks the 'street smarts', as you'd call them to see danger when it comes for her. Perhaps that is the result of a lack of education as she was forced to grow up in a cult that you've been allowing to deny rights to their female members as well as force underage girls into marriages. This world you've created is not a safe or fair one. I intend to correct it."
Hojo seemed to have almost forgot that the Divine Order was going to become an issue, "It is a fair one. We can't just attack other people's religions Sesshoumaru. We're civilized here."
"A civilized city with underage girls locked up in apartments bearing children for men that have multiple wives. Indeed."
Sesshoumaru pretty much had Hojo sweating now. Things were looking good for him. Miroku had pretty much predicted the votes Sesshoumaru wasn't going to get were ones he never had a chance at getting in the first place as all the undecided could flock to him as there was no way to morally justify the allowed actions of the Divine Order. Kagome remained hopeful as the debate finished with Hojo looking completely distraught while Sesshoumaru looked as calm and uncaring as he always did.
"Kagome," Kikyo finally spoke her voice cutting through the air, "I need to speak with you in private. InuYasha as well."
"What is it?" InuYasha was nervous still a bit distrustful of Kikyo, "upset that everyone knows about the Divine Order now?"
Kikyo shook her head taking the lead and going to InuYasha's room. InuYasha growled wishing he could get a clear answer from her for once as he grabbed the Tensagia not letting it out of his sight and following her. Kagome gave Rin a kiss and promised they'd all be back very curious about what Kikyo possibly had to say wondering if she had any information on Naraku.
The moment the three of them were in the room together Kikyo shut the door and narrowed her eyes at the Tensagia, "You were right to keep it with you. It can remove Kaguya's marking correct? It's important Sesshoumaru does not lose it."
Kagome's eyes widened, "You know about Kaguya? Does Naraku work for her, or the other way around?"
Kikyo shook her head, "They had a shaky alliance at best. Kaguya isn't your concern anymore. She is dead to this world."
"Dead?" Kagome was in disbelief to accept that after she and Sesshoumaru had spent so much time speculating that creature's motivations in all of this, "how? What did she want? Why do you know? What has Naraku been telling you?"
"Naraku doesn't need to tell me anything about Kaguya," Kikyo narrowed her eyes, "I am Kaguya. Or was Kaguya."
InuYasha snarled, "The fuck are you saying Kikyo? It's been you this whole time? You are Rin's mother?"
Kikyo shook her head, "No you misunderstand. It's going to sound farfetch'd I know, but Kaguya built her body absorbing powerful creatures such as other demons and the Celestial being. She was in love with Midoriko, and when Midoriko died she used knowledge she'd obtained from the Celestial being to create a jewel. When souls with the essence of hope and despair are used to fuel and create this jewel it has been said that the jewel will grant its users any wish they desire. In order to to keep herself focused on the task of filling the jewel with darkness to sustain its form Kaguya had to force her heart out of her body. This all happened right after Rin was born. Her heart and what few good qualities Kaguya had took form. I am the life that was created to hold her heart."
"Yeah that's farfetch'd as hell!" InuYasha not finding any of this amusing, "Love Trials would have been filming around the time Kagome got Rin. You were a damn law school student remember? It's not like you just popped into existence."
"A law school student working as a notary that approved my adoption of Rin," Kagome spoke quietly being open minded to Kikyo's words.
Kikyo nodded glad Kagome was paying attention, "Kaguya was influencing me at that time. Having me and Janis doing her bidding. Shortly after that time, however, I was left to my own devices and my own life completely forgetting everything about Kaguya. I applied to Love Trials to find and build my own life experiences as a normal woman. The reason for this being with no heart Kaguya left herself vulnerable to be possessed by all the dark demonic energy she'd collected into the sacred jewel. She became its tool. It wishes to absorb her to make itself indestructible and show its user their desires. She's nothing more than fodder now. Once she ceases to be useful she'll be gone from this world and fully absorbed."
"If all of this is true and it's not," InuYasha believed this was some sort of trick by Naraku, "why would your memories come back? How do you know she's alive or dead?"
"Naraku and I went to kill her. That's why he offered Kagome a ceasefire so he could absorb Kaguya's powers for himself to gain immortality while I simply wanted to be free of her. Naraku being mostly the same as Kaguya recognized what I was and all my memories came back. It happened the night before I last came to you."
"The day our light combined to wake me up from the coma," Kagome was realizing this whole thing sounded like some kind of demonic soap opera.
"Yeah Kikyo's light which I don't feel anymore," InuYasha was even more on the defensive now, "where did it go? You're either up to something or you're not really Kikyo. What did Naraku do to you?"
InuYasha regretted being hard on her when he saw the hurt come across Kikyo's face. It indeed hurt that InuYasha, the man she once loved, was accusing her of being here to hurt or confuse them. What really stung was the fact that InuYasha seemed to know that her light was indeed gone because of her schemes. Though she'd had good intentions she still delivered Naraku Kagome's blood without their knowledge. Her betrayal against them had cost her the light Midoriko entrusted Kaguya with.
Kikyo didn't need InuYasha's insults. She was already disgusted with herself. Disgusted at her miscalculations and belief she could handle both Kaguya and Naraku on her own. Kagome had light but didn't let it go to her head. That girl could still keep herself grounded in the real world and knew she couldn't handle these demons without Sesshoumaru at her side. If not for Kikyo's pride she might've learned something from Kagome.
Kikyo couldn't even look in the mirror anymore feeling quite violated that she'd been used to harbor darkness and give birth to an abomination. She'd been foolish to think she could claim her own life when her body had been used in such a disgusting way. InuYasha would have brought up the odd pregnancy if not for seeing his beloved in distress.
"Why was Rin given to me?" Kagome asked, "me and Sesshoumaru keep asking that over and over again. That's the real answer that I'm looking for Kikyo. Why did Kaguya get pregnant by Sesshoumaru? Was my daughter used as a trap to get the two of us together?"
Kagome was very unaware of what Kikyo's intentions were with all of this, but if all of this was true she didn't want the woman thinking she had any claim to Rin just because she'd been born from Kaguya's flesh. It was probably shallow to think that way, but Kagome wasn't going to let Kaguya find another way to hurt Rin more than she'd already had.
"The only feelings I have for Rin is the desire to see her safe and happy," Kikyo made clear to Kagome understanding what she was getting at, "giving birth to a child might have been the final factor that led Kaguya to forcing out her heart. The girl was indeed born to be used as a tool and she didn't want to form any sort of attachment to her. As for your question Kagome I will give you the answers you want, but it will put you a difficult position. Kaguya can see people's desires. She sought you out as the jewel demanded her to. At the time she found you you were struggling with the loss of your father and your mother forcing the two of you back into the Divine Order. You were old enough to make your own decisions, but you went along with her wanting her love. Still the woman refused to listen to anything you said and your own feelings and this hurt you. All you wanted was someone to receive your love that would love you back. That's when all of this truly began."
InuYasha still was having a hard time swallowing all of this, but didn't dare say a thing as Kagome was completely absorbed. For so long now she wanted an answer and she was getting it, so Kikyo was left to continue.
"Kaguya was the only Succubi alive at the time, and the jewel told her it'd need the soul of a Succubi to feed its dark powers. Not knowing the jewel intended to use her she had no choice other than to have a child to give it what it wanted. She'd kill two birds with one stone she thought as she'd leave the care of the child to you, giving you what you wanted, with hopes she could use Rin to place a marking on you so she could safely remain in hiding just incase Midoriko's soul allowed you to develop a light that would endanger her. Sesshoumaru comes into the picture simply because of petty revenge. If she had to force a male to impregnate her she'd use one that she harbored ill feelings for. She wanted to make him feel weak as payback for what he did to Midoriko. Rin being used to link you and Sesshoumaru together wasn't a guarantee, but she was hopeful it would happen for she thought it would be humorous to have the man that killed Midoriko protect and care for her reincarnation before your eventual death. The reason Kaguya sought you out in the first place under the jewel's direction is because your soul is important. The jewel needs both hope and despair to crystalize and take form. It wants you to be the light inside of it. Someone with a mostly unselfish nature that tries to see the good in this world despite the darkness all around them. All of this was done for the purpose of capturing you and imprisoning you forever. Inside the jewel you'll spend all eternity in misery having to constantly do battle against the darkness never knowing peace."
Silence fell among the three as Kagome tried to process all of this. Kikyo had been right. Kagome wanted answers, but at the same time she wasn't a fan of what she'd learned. It only left her more confused.
"Why me?" Kagome asked, "even if what you said about me was true, which it's not cause I'm not exactly a pure unselfish person, there has to be other people more fitting. Is it because of Midoriko? Were all the other reincarnations before me not good enough?"
If Kagome had to buy Kikyo's story it seemed she had no choice other than to believe she was indeed the reincarnation of some ancient miko.
"They weren't," Kikyo answered, "Midoriko's soul has somehow taken root in your body in a way different from the others. Kaguya didn't know the answer so I don't know it either. All I know is that the jewel has been waiting for you ever since Kaguya formed it, a few hundred years before you even existed. You could call it destiny I guess. You were just pre-decided to be special. Why doesn't matter. The jewel has chosen you to bear light within it and it will do anything it can to either absorb you alive or take your soul."
"There is no such thing as destiny," Kagome said her world view still seemingly shaped by Naraku's teachings throughout her life, "it can find someone else."
"I'm telling you there is no one else. The minute it could communicate with Kaguya and influence her it told her there would one day be a girl named Kagome and she would be the most important piece to bringing it into existence."
Kikyo sighed as she was getting to the reason for her being here, "Kagome we cannot allow that jewel to crystalize. You think Naraku is bad? He knew there was a sacred jewel, but his reaction to seeing the physical product was a terrifying one. He, a creature that enjoys people's misery, was both fascinated and horrified by it. Kaguya wished to bring it into the world and control it, but it was quick to turn on her and use her own darkness against her. I doubt that jewel grants anyone's wish. It just wants to use people's hope for a better life against them while taking in the pain of those who fight for control of it. Its only goal is to manipulate and destroy everyone that gets their hands on it until there is nothing left. With Kaguya's soul inside it and your light there will be no being that doesn't desire it. Nothing will stop it."
If Kagome accepted what Kikyo was telling her it meant that she would have to give up the hope of ever having a normal life. Was it really her destiny to become part of this jewel? Would she have a hand in inflicting misery on the world until nothing was left?
"If the jewel absorbs Kaguya will Rin be safe?" Kagome asked, "and Sesshoumaru?"
Kikyo frowned, "As I said the jewel needs hope inside it to give the illusion to its user that it isn't evil. It can't have hope if you crumble under the darkness. It might take Rin and Sesshoumaru just to give you something to fight for. You know how you feel right now? Trying to be strong for those you care about holding on to hope that you and Sesshoumaru will find a solution before something terrible happens? That's how you will feel every day for the rest of time. That's what the jewel wants from you. It will power it quite nicely. You were right in trying to shield your friend Sango from what is happening with you. It will come for everyone holds significance to you to keep your light burning strong within it. Naraku included. Those closest to you will be terrorized by Naraku and Kaguya constantly leaving you to fight them. Is that the fate you want for yourself and them? Kagome I don't wish to see you trapped in the darkness helping bring about the end of the world."
End of the world? It was such a hard thing to hear. She signed up for a marriage of convenience with Sesshoumaru for Rin's benefit. She thought the biggest trials she'd ever have to go through was establishing herself as her daughter's mother in their relationship while at the same time letting her husband know she existed for a better purpose than simply being used by him. This whole time her 'better' purpose was to be used for some evil demonic object that hurt everyone.
"What do I need to do Kikyo?" Kagome asked, "I won't accept that as my destiny. Tell me what I need to do."
Kikyo looked to the floor, "Go to a place beyond the jewel's reach while you're still free from Kaguya's marking. Kagome you have to die. Don't wait for old age, sickness, or someone like Naraku to claim your life. You don't have the luxury of time. If you truly want to save everyone from despair you need to kill yourself. You'd be making a sacrifice for them. The jewel will never form and Kaguya will remain in stasis. Naraku will leave your family alone and lose his damn game and probably lose his interest in killing Midoriko's reincarnations all together. It sounds harsh and cold I know, but if you take your own life you'd at least be going out on your own terms. You could say good-bye to everyone and find peace."
"KAGOME DON'T YOU EVEN LISTEN TO A DAMN WORD!" InuYasha's voice roared through the room as he grabbed Kikyo by the shoulder and pushed her against the door.
If InuYasha's goal in such an action was to stop Kagome from considering Kikyo's advice than it had worked as Kagome had been frightened by the screaming and sight of InuYasha physically rushing Kikyo.
Kikyo was even shocked by InuYasha's reaction. She tried her hardest to fight InuYasha off of her. Did he think she was going to kill Kagome herself? Kikyo had thought about it. It'd be much easier to end Kagome's life this night than wait for Naraku to stop dragging his feet, but suicide would be the best option for the girl to find peace. Kikyo honestly saw this as the best solution to a horrible problem.
"Does that girl mean more to you then I do?" Kikyo asked InuYasha, "You claim to love me but yet attack me for giving her the solution she wants."
"Shut up!" InuYasha growled not letting Kikyo go, "are you even listening to yourself? The Kikyo I love would never say this shit. You're either here doing Naraku's bidding or you lost your damn mind."
"Naraku would kill me if I knew I was here telling her this," Kikyo was still trying to push him away, "I don't know what he is planning to do to her but he isn't ready yet. This would be the worst possible outcome for him. Kagome having any say in her own death isn't how he wishes to play his games. I'm looking out for her interest."
"No you're not! Kikyo I don't know what's happened to you. If you really are Kaguya or not or what happened to your light or baby but just think about what you're saying. Hope and despair? If Kagome is destined to be hope than that's a good thing. It doesn't mean she was born to be part of a jewel, did ya think about that? Maybe she was born to destroy it. Kagome killing herself and abandoning Rin would only breed more of this despair you're so scared of. Just because you've made up your mind and decided to choose darkness over light doesn't mean the rest of us have to! That's not an option for me."
Kikyo had stopped struggling against InuYasha as she became lost in her thoughts. Something InuYasha had just said reminded her of something. Oh yes, how could she forget.
"So Kagome Higurashi?" Kaguya was standing outside the Divine Order's complex staring in a window trying to catch a glimpse of the girl, "she's already grown so much. It feels like just yesterday she was a mere infant with no hopes or desires. The moment Naraku spoke her name I knew it would be her. Kagome was your first word after all."
Inside the palm of Kaguya's hand was the sacred jewel she was trying to nurture. It had to be a rare occasion for her to not be seen with a curled up fist as the glass shell of the jewel was still very weak and needed constant protecting. The sacred jewel as it was now was like a newborn baby. She constantly needed to give it dark demonic energy to keep it from breaking it. If it cracked even a bit everything would be for nothing and she'd never get her wish to be with Midoriko again.
The jewel she had in her hand she fully intended to be the final product. This had been the furthest she ever got in making one. This had to be it! It had formed three-hundred-years-ago and shown itself to be the true sacred jewel of her making when it told her what it needed in order to crystalize. A girl named Kagome would be born one day and she would be with the prime ingredient for the jewel.
Kaguya frowned. This was a problem. She should have saw this coming when the next thing the jewel asked her to do was make a deal with Naraku so she could put a marking on his soul. It had told her that Naraku needed to be the face of all the darkness within the jewel as he would become an enemy of Kagome's. She'd assumed it would be because Naraku as he did to countless others would make Kagome another victim of his, but of course it just had to be because Kagome was a Midoriko reincarnation. How was that possible? The timeline didn't even make sense to Kaguya. She recalled Kagome being an infant at the time the previous reincarnation was alive, but her memory regarding that night was a bit hazy.
"I don't want to think back to that," Kaguya sighed holding the jewel tightly, "that was a mistake. One I didn't think I'd have to make again. What a fool Naraku. I did what Midoriko asked of me and had you released from my arrow and what did you do with your life? Same old same old. How can I be with Midoriko again if her soul is inside the jewel?"
"There are ways," the jewel spoke to her, "it is not Midoriko's soul I want. It is Kagome's."
"That makes no sense," the woman shook her head, "a soul makes up a person and that means she's Midoriko. Why is this one so different from the other reincarnations?"
"Kagome is the one I require Kaguya. I cannot grant your wish without her. Do you wish to see Midoriko again? You were going to ask this modest wish of me and then use your celestial robe to stop time and be with her forever were you not?"
"It's all I want," Kaguya told herself, "but I cannot join her inside the jewel. I am not naive to think much of a life can be had inside of you. I created you. I know what you are."
"But yet you wish to speak with Midoriko again so badly you are following through with my creation. Kaguya you've come so far and if you stop now all this pain you've been feeling is for nothing. Is that the fate you wish to accept?"
"No," Kaguya shook her head, "whatever you require. As long as you grant my wish."
"What is the girl's desire Kaguya?" the jewel asked its creator when Kaguya could finally catch a glimpse of the long braided hair Kagome.
"To have someone that receives her love and will love her back," Kaguya sighed telling the jewel what it was unable to see for it did not have all its pieces yet.
"Sounds like you. That was all you ever wanted. You finally got it just for Sesshoumaru to take it away from you."
"Sesshoumaru," Kaguya hissed turning her back to leave now that she got what she came there for, "that vile dog is still alive. Modernizing Fangvale as though he is some kind of new world order for our kind. Everyone has forgotten what he really is. Nothing but a murderous pup that believed everyone was beneath him."
"If he still lives then take advantage of it. If killing him would curb your bitterness you would have done it already. I could use him. Sentence him to a fate worse than death. We would only need to devise a way to entangle the fates of both him and Kagome."
"No. I've made good on everything Midoriko asked of me. I freed Naraku and I will not seek out revenge against Sesshoumaru on her behalf. I'm sure the mutt will somehow pay for everything he's done."
"Kaguya as long as Sesshoumaru believes he is strong and untouchable he'll never pay for what he did. As honorable as your intentions are in sparing him they make you miserable. Midoriko wouldn't have wanted this for you. Your heart is becoming a liability."
"So you've told me many times before. No matter what I do you'll make good on your promise? You're a distrustful little jewel that much I know, but I am your creator. I am the only one that knows how to destroy you. Never forget that."
"You are not the only one."
"I am the only with knowledge of how to create and destroy a sacred jewel. Your existence depends on me."
"You believe you are both my creator and destroyer? That isn't true. Kagome is the one that will allow me to take form as well as be my undoing if she is left to live much longer. Kaguya. I am not ready to receive her yet. I need more demons and more cooperation. Fail and you'll never get my wish."
What InuYasha said just then was true. Kagome wasn't the hope the sacred jewel needed simply because she was a good person. She was the hope because it would be her would destroy the jewel. All this time Kikyo truly had been the one that picked despair. Seeing no other way out of this than Kagome's death when there was another answer if only she'd not been so afraid of sifting through Kaguya's memories.
She wondered what Naraku's reaction to this whole thing would be. He claimed he hated hypocrites, and yet she'd been the biggest one of them all. She squandered her light and betrayed Kagome to preserve her own life but yet dared to tell Kagome she should kill herself? What was wrong with her? It should have been Kikyo that killed herself. If she had Kaguya wouldn't be fueling the jewel at this very moment and it'd probably break.
Kikyo wouldn't let herself linger in that line of thinking for much longer, however, as the infant had the heart now and she was now convinced it didn't matter. The sacred jewel and Kaguya was not hers to defeat. Kagome was the one destined to destroy it.
"You've made your point," Kikyo was calm down and tried to reassure InuYasha by gently placing her palm above his hand, "I was wrong. I see that now. Release me InuYasha. No longer will I be a hiderence."
InuYasha eased up on the pressure but wasn't going to give Kikyo a lot of room to roam, "Just like that huh? You believe me? Since when does Kikyo Yamada ever admit to being wrong?"
"Since the first time I've been wrong," Kikyo smiled at him, "InuYasha thank you. You made me remember why Kagome is so important. Made me realize what I was missing. InuYasha… are you happy?"
"Happy?" he shut his eyes, "do I look happy to you? You basically came in here to tell Kagome to kill herself and now you want to leave with a smile on your face leaving me to wonder what's wrong with you. Of course I'm not happy Kikyo."
"It makes me happy," she whispered in response, "all I wanted for you was to find a purpose and you have InuYasha. You've been protecting her. There is no benefit in doing what you're doing, but yet you've kept at it."
InuYasha grabbed Kikyo's wrist tightly, "Of course I've been protecting her you idiot. You just don't get it do you? I don't need to hear some lengthy story about some idiot Succubi and a jewel to know Kagome is special. Before I got to know her and Rin I was nothing more than another dumb deceitful dog looking to use her to get you back. She's the one that helped me find a purpose, not you! I'm not even the shining example. Look at Sesshoumaru. Even I admit he's changed and it's all thanks to this human girl. Kikyo I want you to leave and never come back. I don't want to be the asshole, but I can't trust you especially after this shit. I don't want you near Kagome or Rin until Naraku is finished. Is that understood? If I hear anyone else mention suicide ever again in this house I'm smacking them over the head. We fight our enemies we don't take the coward's way out."
"I understand," Kikyo said fine with their new arrangement, "if I need to tell you something more I will text you. I will never reveal the whereabouts of Naraku or the jewel in the event I or my phone become compromised and you're being lured into a trap. I will only share information that pertains to the case."
Kikyo had been living a somewhat normal life before she opened up a case against the Divine Order. She'd started this as an investigator and was going to remain an investigator until the case was closed and someone was punished. With all Kaguya's memories she should have had all the tools she needed but it still felt as though there were one more mystery to solve in all of this. Kaguya had a thought when she laid eyes on Kagome and knew she was the one the jewel wanted. It was almost like Kaguya had met Kagome before and knew something Kikyo herself couldn't recall. Something just wasn't adding up, and it seemed like the best place to begin would be with looking into the previous Midoriko reincarnations. It was time to pay Naraku another visit.
"Come on Kagome let's get back to the others," InuYasha peered out into the hallway making sure Kikyo left the premises before gently putting a hand on her shoulder.
Kagome had been quiet this whole time. He thought the prospect of going back to her family and friends would make her happy after having to listen to Kikyo pile all that junk on her, but she seemed lost in her own thoughts.
"Kagome?" InuYasha's ears twitched, "you were paying attention right? It's all bullshit. Let's say what she said was all true then it still doesn't matter. This sacred jewel thing would still be unnatural bullshit that you and Sesshoumaru can destroy. It would be no different than killing Kaguya or Naraku."
InuYasha brought up a fair point but still Kagome was paralyzed with fear. She had been ever since Kikyo told her about the future that'd be in store for her if she fell prey to the jewel. She'd spend all eternity watching those close to her suffering over and over again to force her to fight for them. She couldn't risk it.
"Rin and Sesshoumaru," Kagome thought to herself, "I can't let them suffer because of me. No one deserves that because of me. Especially you InuYasha. You stood up for me to Kikyo of all people. I can't let you get absorbed and suffer just because I want to live. It's not right. Even if we have the power to destroy them all it's still dangerous. There is only one outcome where I can guarantee no one gets hurt over me. I have to die."
(End Chapter)
AN: I once again apologize. This was a chapter written for the purpose of being an in between thing to explain what's going in Sesshoumaru's election leading into his confrontation with Inukimi and it just kept going though it was only a matter of time before Kikyo decided to be a hypocrite. Unfortunately it took her 15 seconds to realize she was wrong not knowing Sesshoumaru and Kagome are a special breed that take whole chapters to realize something. Something else I've realized if you've read Dragonsbane that I'm worried about becoming an issue. Kagome was the issue in Dragonsbane cause really there wasn't much to do with her at a point as she had her character development really early learning her life lesson while Sesshoumaru continued to grow and discover more about himself. Here I feel like is the opposite. Kagome is on a rollercoaster while Sesshoumaru just wants to everyone to stop crying and play with his ants as he figures out human emotions. Oh well. I'm doing my best here.
Also -cue Danganronpa opening- Kikyo being the ultra despair girl she is.
