Here's chapter eleven! I decided to hold off on the lemon for now
cause it just wouldn't fit into the story plot just yet. Also because I
still haven't decided wether I should do it or not. I need some feedback
and opinions on this subject. I've been having a bit of writer's block
lately, so that's why these chapters haven't been coming out so fast. And
the fact that I've been swamped with homework doesn't help it either. I
can't wait until I'm out of stupid highschool. Just one more year after
this one woohoo! On to reviewer responses!
Ivan's Kitsune: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Sorry that this is a bit late but I've been busy with homewok and school and haven't been able to do much on my computer x_x. How old did you turn? I hope your birthday rocked and you got everything you wanted! This is a random question but do you have msn messanger? I just wanted to know cause I just downloaded it on my comp and I'm tryin to get more people added to my friend's list. Thanks for the review and happy birthday again! This chapter is my gift to you.
Disclaimer: *Aries slowly wakes up and finds that she is in her bed.* "What the..how did I get here?" *Looks around at her walls and sees the words 'Aries does not own InuYasha' written all over them* "And who did that!?" *Finds a marker in her hand. Throws it in the corner and walks to her computer desk while whistling as if nothing happened. Sits down and thinks about what to type. Drums her fingers on the desk. Shippo walks in.* "Hiya Aries-chan! How's the chapter coming?" "Not so good Shippo, I'm a little uninspired right now." "Is there anything I can do to help?" *Aries ponders this for a minute, then nods her head furiously.* "As a matter of fact there is Shippo!" *Aries whispers something into Shippo's ear.* "You want me to what!? Now way! I refuse!" "Oh come on Shippo, it'll help me. Please!" *Aries gives him the puppy-dog eyes.* "Fine alright, I'll do it." *Aries jumps for joy. She watches as Shippo transforms into Sesshoumaru and says 'Aries, you mean everything to me.' Aries pounces on the Sesshoumaru impersonator and hugs him.* "You mean everything to me too Sesshy!" *Hears an 'Ahem' from her doorway and turns to see the real Sesshoumaru.* "I can explain everything!" *Aries then begins to explain herself while Shippo turns back into his normal self and stealthily leaves*
A/N: ~ ~ means in a dream
Chapter Eleven: Into the Eastern Lands
~ Ayame found herself shrouded in darkness. Her eyes would not adjust because there was no light for them to adjust to. Just blackness. Then upahead a small orange-red glow began to form. It was growing brighter and coming closer to her. Suddenly it was becoming increasingly hotter. Ayame noticed that the closer the glow came, the hotter it got. She finally made out what it was. It was fire. Upon discovering this, her ears were assualted with screams of pain. She placed her hands over her ears to try and block out the piercing cries, but it didn't help. In front of her bodies were laying down with blood gushing out of their wounds. She could smell the horrible scent of burning flesh. Then the cries of pain subsided and were replaced by voices speaking to her.
"Have you forgotten your promise to us already Ayame?" A woman whose skin was a charred black color spoke to her.
"No! I haven't forgotten! I promised that I would avenge you and I will!" Ayame called out.
"Then why haven't you started your search for Naraku yet?" Asked a little boy who had an incredibly deep gash across his torso, that was spilling forth blood.
"So this is how much we truly meant to you, is it Ayame? The second we are dead you just forget about us and the kindness we showed you?" One of the village elders asked. He had a large chunk of flesh missing from his side.
"That's not true! You meant so much to me! I promise I will defeat Naraku, just please give me some time! I need to get stronger!"
"Then get stonger Ayame. We are restless because every day that Naraku is alive, he kills more and more people. He must be stopped. So hurry and become stronger." The elderly man said and slowly he and the others began to fade away.
"I will. I will become stronger. I will defeat Naraku." Ayame whispered to the darkness that was once again surrounding her.~
Ayame awoke with a start. There was a thin film of sweat covering her skin and her breathing had become harsh. She stared up at the ceiling with wide eyes. Then looking outside she noticed that it was fairlt early in the morning. She then calmed herself down and regained her normal breathing. She then began to look back on the dream.
'I need to get stronger. I can't defeat Naraku in my current state. Sure his puppets can be taken down without assistance, but Naraku himself has almost half of the jewel shard on him. Perhaps I could ask Sesshoumaru to train me. And while we are training, InuYasha and the others can search for more jewel shards and look for Naraku's hideout."
Ayame decided that this was a good enough plan. She would tell the others of this plan at breakfast. Right now she needed to take a bath to clear her mind. She began to turn over to get up when she felt a hand, that was inside of her sleeping yukata and resting on her right hip, pull her back down. She then became aware of a fuzzy tail that was wrapped around the inside of her left thigh. Ayame, who was now laying back down, turned her head to look at the ocupant next to her. She was met with the golden stare of the now awake Sesshoumaru.
"And just where did you think you were going?" Came his silky smooth voice.
"I was going to go clear my thoughts." Ayame quietly responded.
Sesshoumaru gently pulled her closer and rested his head on her shoulder near her neck. After a few moments of silence Ayame spoke.
"Sesshoumaru, I need you to train me."
"Train you in what?" He whispered into her ear.
"Combat." Was Ayame's short and simple answer.
Confused by her statement, Sesshoumaru raised himself up and was now hovering over her. His long silvery hair making a curtian around them and early morning rays of sunlight dancing upon his broad, open chest.
"Why do you want me to train you in combat?" He spoke.
"Because I need to become stronger so that I can defeat Naraku and avenge my village." Ayame said while staring into his honey colored irises.
Sesshoumaru took a minute to think this over. He decided to make a proposition with her.
"Very well. I will train you if you do somethin for me in return."
Taking in the rather intimate postion they were in she didn't know exactly what he wanted, but she had a thought of what it might be. She swallowed the lump in her throat.
"Uhhh, and just what would that be?"
'Here it comes, oh God he's going to ask it.' Ayame thought, a bit panicked.
"I want you to accompany me to a get together that has been proposed by the other lords."
Ayame was suddenly relieved. But when she got to thinking she realized that if she went, she would ultimately end up running into Karisou, Ryu, and Yumi. She looked up at Sesshoumaru who was awaiting an answer.
"I don't know Sesshoumaru, Karisou and his mother and father will be there. I don't know if it is wise to take me. There's no telling what I'd do if I saw them or what they would do to me." Ayame stated.
"I will make sure that they do not harm you. And I know that you are strong enough to restrain yourself from attacking them."
Ayame was stuck. Each way she looked at it was bad. If she went then she would probably cause a scene. If she didn't then Sesshoumaru wouldn't train her. She was begining to develop a small headache. Sighing she came to a decision.
"Okay I will go, but only if you promise to stay with me. I don't particularily want to get attacked by three demons."
Sesshoumaru nodded his head. "I promise." He said before claiming her lips in a searing kiss. The moment was short lived, however, when a knock came at the door. Sesshoumaru looked over to the door and softly growled.
"I'll be down soon Jaken." Sesshoumaru bit out. He would have to punish his ward later for interupting.
"Yes Sesshoumaru-sama." The toad youkai sqwuaked out, before hastily walking away. He knew what that tone meant and he didn't want to stick around for much longer.
Sesshoumaru then stood and dressed back into his shirt. He then walked towards the door and slid it open. Before leaving he turned in Ayame's direction.
"We will continue this conversation later." He spoke, then at Ayame's nod he walked out, slid the door closed, and made his way towards his study.
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*One hour later, in the dinning room*
Sesshoumaru was at his usual seat at the head of the table. To his right was Rin, Shippo, Kagome, and InuYasha. To his left was Ayame, Sango, and Miroku. A half an hour earlier Keiko had delivered an arm full of outfits to Ayame's room. There were many beautiful kimonos and two other fighting outfits that were identicle to her black one, except one was white and the other a dark, midnight-blue. Ayame had asked why there were two other fighting outifts and Keiko had said because she was to begin training with Sesshoumaru the next day. Ayame was shocked that the outfits could be made in such a short amount of time. She accepted the clothes from Keiko, then dressed when she had left. She had chosen to wear a light-blue kimono with stitchings of lilies on it in white. She had then made her way down to the dinning room and was greeted by the sight of all her friends.
They were now all eating their meals and listening to Ayame's plan. She told them that she would be training with Sesshoumaru and that they should gather the remaining jewel shards that were not in Naraku's possesion and also try and find his location. They all agreed to the plan and were surprised when Sesshoumaru stated that he too would accompany them in the fight against Naraku. After breakfast the group went outside into the gardens, except for Sesshoumaru who returned to his study. Rin and Shippo were playing tag and had included Jaken who was not too happy about it. Miroku and Inuyasha were watching over them while Ayame, Kagome, and Sango, who had Kirara in her lap, sat under a tree near a pond, and were talking.
"Ayame, I was wondering, is Sesshoumaru the man you said you loved?" Asked Kagome.
Ayame smiled, "Yes Kagome, he is."
"But how can you love someone who is so cold and emotionless? Not to mention the fact that he has tried to kill InuYasha numerous times." Pointed out Kagome.
"He's not like that to me though. He has changed. Didn't you notice yesterday that he didn't attack InuYasha?"
"That did seem a bit odd to me." Said Sango.
Kagome nodded her head in agreement, "I suppose he has changed. I guess all that matters is that you love him Ayame."
"Yes, it does. Anyways enough about me. How have things been in the past few weeks between you and InuYasha, Kagome?"
Kagome blushed a bit. "Things have been fine. He hasn't gone to see Kikyo in awhile and we even hugged one night."
"Maybe he's starting to finally come around." Ayame mused. She then turned towards Sango, "And what about you and Miroku?"
Sango's expression was priceless. She was surprised by the question. "Wh..what!? What do you mean? There's nothing happening between us." She denied.
"Uh huh yeah sure Sango. I bet if he were to stop gropping you, you would probably miss it." Ayame joked.
Kagome laughed and sango's cheeks flushed. The group silenced when a screaming Jaken ran by them, followed closely by Rin and Shippo. The three then busted up laughing.
InuYasha and the rest of the group stayed the rest of day and said that they would be leaving first thing in the morning.
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*The next morning*
Ayame had adorned her black fighting outfit, since she knew she would start training today, and was now waving goodbye to her friends. They had decided to meet back here in a few weeks and discuss how things were going. When the group was out of sight Ayame walked back inside. She was meet by Keiko, who lead her to the dojo. Upon arriving she bowed and dismissed herself. Ayame went inside and was astounded by how large it was. It was big enough to probably allow Sesshoumaru to be in his true form and still have enough room to move around. Both the floors and walls were made out of wood and weapons were hanging from the walls. Ayame spotted Sesshoumaru, who was not wearing his armor, over in a corner. She made her way towards him and was surprised when he charged at her. She barely had enough time to dodge his claws. She got into a fighting stance and faced Sesshoumaru.
"Always be on guard." He told her, then attacked once more. Ayame was prepared this time and was able to dodge his attack then counter his attack with her own. Sesshoumaru dodged it. The two went about fighting like this for awhile before Sesshoumaru stopped. He had needed to see how skilled she was and where improvements could be made. He instructed her in different stances and fighting techniques. By the end of the day Ayame had improved greatly. Sesshoumaru said that they would continue where they left off tomorow. He was impressed with her abilities. She had actually been able to pin him down a couple of times. Ayame was extremely tired and worn out. She went to her room and changed into a clean sleeping yakata. She laid down and the second her head the pillow she was asleep.
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*The next morning*
Ayame was being shook awake. Her eyes were closed but she sensed that Sesshoumaru was trying to get her to wake up. She pulled the covers up over he head in protest. The blankets were then pulled away and she was aware of how cold it was. It suddenly became even colder when Sesshoumaru poured cold water onto her head (A/N Hmm deja vu. I guess Sesshy wanted his own revenge from when I did the same thing to him.). Ayame sat up sputtering. She glared at Sesshoumaru.
"Get ready. I will expect you in the dojo in half an hour." With that he turned and left.
'Gee what a nice way to wake up.' Ayame sarcastically thought. She recalled the other morning when she awoke to Sesshoumaru being right next to her and contrasted it with this morning.
She then stood and glanced out the window. It was still dark outside. She gathered the white fighting outfit and went to the hotspring. After her refreshing bath she dressed, went down to the dinning room and had a quick breakfast, then headed for the dojo. Upon approaching the dojo she remembered how she was off guard yesterday. She prepared herself then entered. She was glad she had prepared herself because she was able to dodge the sword that was thrust her way. Sesshoumaru resheathed the sword then stood up straight.
"I will be teaching you how to use weapons today." He lead her over to a wall that was covered with swords, katanas, daggers, and numerous other sword-like weapons. He instructed her to pick one. Ayame looked over the weapons and decided on a pair of kodachis. Sesshoumaru showed her how to use them and when she had gotten the hang of it, they battled. Ayame was keeping up with him, but was unable to attack back. She was mainly parrying his attacks. Sesshoumaru had cornered her. She knew she needed to think fast. She distracted him by attacking with the kodachi in her right hand, while she wrapped her tail around the one in her left hand. Sesshoumaru blocked the attack then came at her. He swung his sword at her, but stopped it an inch away from her throat.
He smirked, "I win again."
Ayame also smirked, "Not so fast, I believe it's a draw."
Sesshoumaru suddenly felt the tip of her other kodachi pressing against his back where his heart is. He lowered his sword and Ayame did the same. She then took the kodachi from her tail and now held it in her left hand. Sesshoumaru once again found himself being impressed by her skills. She was a quick thinker. He decided to end the lesson for today. Judging by the position of the sun, Ayame guessed it to be about 4:00 p.m. As they were walking out of the dojo, Sesshoumaru spoke.
"You remember your part of this bargain right?"
Ayame nodded, "Yeah. When is it anyways?"
"Tomorrow." He calmly said.
Ayame stopped dead in her tracks. 'Tomorrow!? Why couldn't he have told me earlier? Like yeasterday!? At least then I would be able to prepare myself mentally before actually going.'
Sesshoumaru noticed the lack of her presence by his side. He turned towards her. "Is something wrong?"
Ayame snapped back to reality and shook her head. "No, it's just I wish you would have told me this yesterday."
She began walking again and caught up to Sesshoumaru. "We will need to be leaving in the morning tomorrow in order to arrive in the eastern lands on time."
"The eastern lands?" Ayame almost shouted. She was begining to feel nautious and unsure about this.
"Yes, the eastern lands." He took in the worried look on Ayame's face and quickly added, "You have nothing to worry about, I will not let any harm come to you."
Ayame slightly nodded her head. "Excuse me, I need to go do some thinking." She then made her way inside and up to her room.
Ayame had sat and meditated in her room for most of the night. She felt a little better by the time she went to sleep. She was glad that at least Sesshoumaru would be with her.
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*The next morning*
Ayame awoke when Keiko had entered her room and brought her another kimono. She was to wear this one to the gathering. Keiko stepped outside while ayame dressed. Ayame admired the kimono and found that this was her favorite one. It was made of black silk and had a baby-blue cresent moon on the back. There were also baby-blue stars scattered all over the kimono. The obi that came with it was made from black lace and also had stars on it. When she was done dressing, Keiko came back into the room and helped her with her hair. They decided to have some shorter strands of hair slightly cover her right eye and the rest was put up in a bun with chopsticks. Ayame and Keiko had then exited her room and were making their ways downstairs. Keiko said she had some chores to do and Ayame thanked her for her help before she then left. Ayame made her way towards Sesshoumaru's scent and found him waiting for her. Her jaw almost dropped. He was wearing a different kimono that made him look, if possible, even more handsome. It had the same pattern as his old kimono except where there was red, it was black instead.
When Sesshoumaru saw Ayame make her way towards him, he too felt as if his jaw were hanging open. She looked beautiful in that kimono and with her hair like that. He already knew that the kimono would look nice because he had told the tailor exactly how to make it, but he wasn't expecting it to look this good. He watched as she approached him and he held out his arm for her to take.
"You look quite beautiful Ayame." He spoke.
Ayame slightly blushed and took his arm. "Thank you Sesshoumaru. You look rather handsome yourself."
They walked outside and Sesshoumaru conjured his cloud under their feet. They began to rise in the air and Ayame 'eeped' then clung onto Sesshoumaru for safety. They were going so fast and Ayame had never experienced anything like this before. After an hour or so she got used to it and lessened her grip on Sesshoumaru's neck. She looked out over the land and her eyes grew big and bright. It was amazing. She could see for miles. She looked down at the trees tops that were zipping past them and immediatly regreted that she had. They had been traveling most of the day now and it was currently 3:00 p.m.
"We will be there in an hour or so." Sesshoumaru told her.
Ayame was starting to get nervous. She didn't know if she could do this anymore. She was mentally cursing at herself for agreeing to this. Sesshoumaru could smell her fear and nervousness.
"Don't worry, I won't let anything happen." He spoke in a soothing voice to her.
Ayame looked up into his eyes and smiled, "I know, but I still can't help but to be nervous." She then leaned her head against his chest and closed her eyes.
Sesshoumaru wrapped an arm around her waist and held her close. Ayame then opened her eyes and turned so she could look out at the surroundings. In the past few minutes she saw her childhood house appear on the horizon and slowly becom larger and larger as they were getting closer and closer. She was now feeling even more sick and nervous. Sesshoumaru landed on the ground in front of the house and Ayame knew that there was no backing out now, they had arrived.
*Stretch* Yay done with another chapter! Sorry bout the cliffhanger, but this chapter is getting pretty long and if I were to keep going it would be WAY too long. Okay I would still like to have some opinions on the whole lemon thing, cause it should come up soon. The next chapter most likely won't be out for a few days cause I have to think about what's gonna happen and as I said earlier, I've been diagnosed with a bad case of writer's block. Hmmm not much else to say except please review! Until the the next chapter, see ya!
~Aries.
Ivan's Kitsune: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! Sorry that this is a bit late but I've been busy with homewok and school and haven't been able to do much on my computer x_x. How old did you turn? I hope your birthday rocked and you got everything you wanted! This is a random question but do you have msn messanger? I just wanted to know cause I just downloaded it on my comp and I'm tryin to get more people added to my friend's list. Thanks for the review and happy birthday again! This chapter is my gift to you.
Disclaimer: *Aries slowly wakes up and finds that she is in her bed.* "What the..how did I get here?" *Looks around at her walls and sees the words 'Aries does not own InuYasha' written all over them* "And who did that!?" *Finds a marker in her hand. Throws it in the corner and walks to her computer desk while whistling as if nothing happened. Sits down and thinks about what to type. Drums her fingers on the desk. Shippo walks in.* "Hiya Aries-chan! How's the chapter coming?" "Not so good Shippo, I'm a little uninspired right now." "Is there anything I can do to help?" *Aries ponders this for a minute, then nods her head furiously.* "As a matter of fact there is Shippo!" *Aries whispers something into Shippo's ear.* "You want me to what!? Now way! I refuse!" "Oh come on Shippo, it'll help me. Please!" *Aries gives him the puppy-dog eyes.* "Fine alright, I'll do it." *Aries jumps for joy. She watches as Shippo transforms into Sesshoumaru and says 'Aries, you mean everything to me.' Aries pounces on the Sesshoumaru impersonator and hugs him.* "You mean everything to me too Sesshy!" *Hears an 'Ahem' from her doorway and turns to see the real Sesshoumaru.* "I can explain everything!" *Aries then begins to explain herself while Shippo turns back into his normal self and stealthily leaves*
A/N: ~ ~ means in a dream
Chapter Eleven: Into the Eastern Lands
~ Ayame found herself shrouded in darkness. Her eyes would not adjust because there was no light for them to adjust to. Just blackness. Then upahead a small orange-red glow began to form. It was growing brighter and coming closer to her. Suddenly it was becoming increasingly hotter. Ayame noticed that the closer the glow came, the hotter it got. She finally made out what it was. It was fire. Upon discovering this, her ears were assualted with screams of pain. She placed her hands over her ears to try and block out the piercing cries, but it didn't help. In front of her bodies were laying down with blood gushing out of their wounds. She could smell the horrible scent of burning flesh. Then the cries of pain subsided and were replaced by voices speaking to her.
"Have you forgotten your promise to us already Ayame?" A woman whose skin was a charred black color spoke to her.
"No! I haven't forgotten! I promised that I would avenge you and I will!" Ayame called out.
"Then why haven't you started your search for Naraku yet?" Asked a little boy who had an incredibly deep gash across his torso, that was spilling forth blood.
"So this is how much we truly meant to you, is it Ayame? The second we are dead you just forget about us and the kindness we showed you?" One of the village elders asked. He had a large chunk of flesh missing from his side.
"That's not true! You meant so much to me! I promise I will defeat Naraku, just please give me some time! I need to get stronger!"
"Then get stonger Ayame. We are restless because every day that Naraku is alive, he kills more and more people. He must be stopped. So hurry and become stronger." The elderly man said and slowly he and the others began to fade away.
"I will. I will become stronger. I will defeat Naraku." Ayame whispered to the darkness that was once again surrounding her.~
Ayame awoke with a start. There was a thin film of sweat covering her skin and her breathing had become harsh. She stared up at the ceiling with wide eyes. Then looking outside she noticed that it was fairlt early in the morning. She then calmed herself down and regained her normal breathing. She then began to look back on the dream.
'I need to get stronger. I can't defeat Naraku in my current state. Sure his puppets can be taken down without assistance, but Naraku himself has almost half of the jewel shard on him. Perhaps I could ask Sesshoumaru to train me. And while we are training, InuYasha and the others can search for more jewel shards and look for Naraku's hideout."
Ayame decided that this was a good enough plan. She would tell the others of this plan at breakfast. Right now she needed to take a bath to clear her mind. She began to turn over to get up when she felt a hand, that was inside of her sleeping yukata and resting on her right hip, pull her back down. She then became aware of a fuzzy tail that was wrapped around the inside of her left thigh. Ayame, who was now laying back down, turned her head to look at the ocupant next to her. She was met with the golden stare of the now awake Sesshoumaru.
"And just where did you think you were going?" Came his silky smooth voice.
"I was going to go clear my thoughts." Ayame quietly responded.
Sesshoumaru gently pulled her closer and rested his head on her shoulder near her neck. After a few moments of silence Ayame spoke.
"Sesshoumaru, I need you to train me."
"Train you in what?" He whispered into her ear.
"Combat." Was Ayame's short and simple answer.
Confused by her statement, Sesshoumaru raised himself up and was now hovering over her. His long silvery hair making a curtian around them and early morning rays of sunlight dancing upon his broad, open chest.
"Why do you want me to train you in combat?" He spoke.
"Because I need to become stronger so that I can defeat Naraku and avenge my village." Ayame said while staring into his honey colored irises.
Sesshoumaru took a minute to think this over. He decided to make a proposition with her.
"Very well. I will train you if you do somethin for me in return."
Taking in the rather intimate postion they were in she didn't know exactly what he wanted, but she had a thought of what it might be. She swallowed the lump in her throat.
"Uhhh, and just what would that be?"
'Here it comes, oh God he's going to ask it.' Ayame thought, a bit panicked.
"I want you to accompany me to a get together that has been proposed by the other lords."
Ayame was suddenly relieved. But when she got to thinking she realized that if she went, she would ultimately end up running into Karisou, Ryu, and Yumi. She looked up at Sesshoumaru who was awaiting an answer.
"I don't know Sesshoumaru, Karisou and his mother and father will be there. I don't know if it is wise to take me. There's no telling what I'd do if I saw them or what they would do to me." Ayame stated.
"I will make sure that they do not harm you. And I know that you are strong enough to restrain yourself from attacking them."
Ayame was stuck. Each way she looked at it was bad. If she went then she would probably cause a scene. If she didn't then Sesshoumaru wouldn't train her. She was begining to develop a small headache. Sighing she came to a decision.
"Okay I will go, but only if you promise to stay with me. I don't particularily want to get attacked by three demons."
Sesshoumaru nodded his head. "I promise." He said before claiming her lips in a searing kiss. The moment was short lived, however, when a knock came at the door. Sesshoumaru looked over to the door and softly growled.
"I'll be down soon Jaken." Sesshoumaru bit out. He would have to punish his ward later for interupting.
"Yes Sesshoumaru-sama." The toad youkai sqwuaked out, before hastily walking away. He knew what that tone meant and he didn't want to stick around for much longer.
Sesshoumaru then stood and dressed back into his shirt. He then walked towards the door and slid it open. Before leaving he turned in Ayame's direction.
"We will continue this conversation later." He spoke, then at Ayame's nod he walked out, slid the door closed, and made his way towards his study.
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*One hour later, in the dinning room*
Sesshoumaru was at his usual seat at the head of the table. To his right was Rin, Shippo, Kagome, and InuYasha. To his left was Ayame, Sango, and Miroku. A half an hour earlier Keiko had delivered an arm full of outfits to Ayame's room. There were many beautiful kimonos and two other fighting outfits that were identicle to her black one, except one was white and the other a dark, midnight-blue. Ayame had asked why there were two other fighting outifts and Keiko had said because she was to begin training with Sesshoumaru the next day. Ayame was shocked that the outfits could be made in such a short amount of time. She accepted the clothes from Keiko, then dressed when she had left. She had chosen to wear a light-blue kimono with stitchings of lilies on it in white. She had then made her way down to the dinning room and was greeted by the sight of all her friends.
They were now all eating their meals and listening to Ayame's plan. She told them that she would be training with Sesshoumaru and that they should gather the remaining jewel shards that were not in Naraku's possesion and also try and find his location. They all agreed to the plan and were surprised when Sesshoumaru stated that he too would accompany them in the fight against Naraku. After breakfast the group went outside into the gardens, except for Sesshoumaru who returned to his study. Rin and Shippo were playing tag and had included Jaken who was not too happy about it. Miroku and Inuyasha were watching over them while Ayame, Kagome, and Sango, who had Kirara in her lap, sat under a tree near a pond, and were talking.
"Ayame, I was wondering, is Sesshoumaru the man you said you loved?" Asked Kagome.
Ayame smiled, "Yes Kagome, he is."
"But how can you love someone who is so cold and emotionless? Not to mention the fact that he has tried to kill InuYasha numerous times." Pointed out Kagome.
"He's not like that to me though. He has changed. Didn't you notice yesterday that he didn't attack InuYasha?"
"That did seem a bit odd to me." Said Sango.
Kagome nodded her head in agreement, "I suppose he has changed. I guess all that matters is that you love him Ayame."
"Yes, it does. Anyways enough about me. How have things been in the past few weeks between you and InuYasha, Kagome?"
Kagome blushed a bit. "Things have been fine. He hasn't gone to see Kikyo in awhile and we even hugged one night."
"Maybe he's starting to finally come around." Ayame mused. She then turned towards Sango, "And what about you and Miroku?"
Sango's expression was priceless. She was surprised by the question. "Wh..what!? What do you mean? There's nothing happening between us." She denied.
"Uh huh yeah sure Sango. I bet if he were to stop gropping you, you would probably miss it." Ayame joked.
Kagome laughed and sango's cheeks flushed. The group silenced when a screaming Jaken ran by them, followed closely by Rin and Shippo. The three then busted up laughing.
InuYasha and the rest of the group stayed the rest of day and said that they would be leaving first thing in the morning.
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*The next morning*
Ayame had adorned her black fighting outfit, since she knew she would start training today, and was now waving goodbye to her friends. They had decided to meet back here in a few weeks and discuss how things were going. When the group was out of sight Ayame walked back inside. She was meet by Keiko, who lead her to the dojo. Upon arriving she bowed and dismissed herself. Ayame went inside and was astounded by how large it was. It was big enough to probably allow Sesshoumaru to be in his true form and still have enough room to move around. Both the floors and walls were made out of wood and weapons were hanging from the walls. Ayame spotted Sesshoumaru, who was not wearing his armor, over in a corner. She made her way towards him and was surprised when he charged at her. She barely had enough time to dodge his claws. She got into a fighting stance and faced Sesshoumaru.
"Always be on guard." He told her, then attacked once more. Ayame was prepared this time and was able to dodge his attack then counter his attack with her own. Sesshoumaru dodged it. The two went about fighting like this for awhile before Sesshoumaru stopped. He had needed to see how skilled she was and where improvements could be made. He instructed her in different stances and fighting techniques. By the end of the day Ayame had improved greatly. Sesshoumaru said that they would continue where they left off tomorow. He was impressed with her abilities. She had actually been able to pin him down a couple of times. Ayame was extremely tired and worn out. She went to her room and changed into a clean sleeping yakata. She laid down and the second her head the pillow she was asleep.
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*The next morning*
Ayame was being shook awake. Her eyes were closed but she sensed that Sesshoumaru was trying to get her to wake up. She pulled the covers up over he head in protest. The blankets were then pulled away and she was aware of how cold it was. It suddenly became even colder when Sesshoumaru poured cold water onto her head (A/N Hmm deja vu. I guess Sesshy wanted his own revenge from when I did the same thing to him.). Ayame sat up sputtering. She glared at Sesshoumaru.
"Get ready. I will expect you in the dojo in half an hour." With that he turned and left.
'Gee what a nice way to wake up.' Ayame sarcastically thought. She recalled the other morning when she awoke to Sesshoumaru being right next to her and contrasted it with this morning.
She then stood and glanced out the window. It was still dark outside. She gathered the white fighting outfit and went to the hotspring. After her refreshing bath she dressed, went down to the dinning room and had a quick breakfast, then headed for the dojo. Upon approaching the dojo she remembered how she was off guard yesterday. She prepared herself then entered. She was glad she had prepared herself because she was able to dodge the sword that was thrust her way. Sesshoumaru resheathed the sword then stood up straight.
"I will be teaching you how to use weapons today." He lead her over to a wall that was covered with swords, katanas, daggers, and numerous other sword-like weapons. He instructed her to pick one. Ayame looked over the weapons and decided on a pair of kodachis. Sesshoumaru showed her how to use them and when she had gotten the hang of it, they battled. Ayame was keeping up with him, but was unable to attack back. She was mainly parrying his attacks. Sesshoumaru had cornered her. She knew she needed to think fast. She distracted him by attacking with the kodachi in her right hand, while she wrapped her tail around the one in her left hand. Sesshoumaru blocked the attack then came at her. He swung his sword at her, but stopped it an inch away from her throat.
He smirked, "I win again."
Ayame also smirked, "Not so fast, I believe it's a draw."
Sesshoumaru suddenly felt the tip of her other kodachi pressing against his back where his heart is. He lowered his sword and Ayame did the same. She then took the kodachi from her tail and now held it in her left hand. Sesshoumaru once again found himself being impressed by her skills. She was a quick thinker. He decided to end the lesson for today. Judging by the position of the sun, Ayame guessed it to be about 4:00 p.m. As they were walking out of the dojo, Sesshoumaru spoke.
"You remember your part of this bargain right?"
Ayame nodded, "Yeah. When is it anyways?"
"Tomorrow." He calmly said.
Ayame stopped dead in her tracks. 'Tomorrow!? Why couldn't he have told me earlier? Like yeasterday!? At least then I would be able to prepare myself mentally before actually going.'
Sesshoumaru noticed the lack of her presence by his side. He turned towards her. "Is something wrong?"
Ayame snapped back to reality and shook her head. "No, it's just I wish you would have told me this yesterday."
She began walking again and caught up to Sesshoumaru. "We will need to be leaving in the morning tomorrow in order to arrive in the eastern lands on time."
"The eastern lands?" Ayame almost shouted. She was begining to feel nautious and unsure about this.
"Yes, the eastern lands." He took in the worried look on Ayame's face and quickly added, "You have nothing to worry about, I will not let any harm come to you."
Ayame slightly nodded her head. "Excuse me, I need to go do some thinking." She then made her way inside and up to her room.
Ayame had sat and meditated in her room for most of the night. She felt a little better by the time she went to sleep. She was glad that at least Sesshoumaru would be with her.
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*The next morning*
Ayame awoke when Keiko had entered her room and brought her another kimono. She was to wear this one to the gathering. Keiko stepped outside while ayame dressed. Ayame admired the kimono and found that this was her favorite one. It was made of black silk and had a baby-blue cresent moon on the back. There were also baby-blue stars scattered all over the kimono. The obi that came with it was made from black lace and also had stars on it. When she was done dressing, Keiko came back into the room and helped her with her hair. They decided to have some shorter strands of hair slightly cover her right eye and the rest was put up in a bun with chopsticks. Ayame and Keiko had then exited her room and were making their ways downstairs. Keiko said she had some chores to do and Ayame thanked her for her help before she then left. Ayame made her way towards Sesshoumaru's scent and found him waiting for her. Her jaw almost dropped. He was wearing a different kimono that made him look, if possible, even more handsome. It had the same pattern as his old kimono except where there was red, it was black instead.
When Sesshoumaru saw Ayame make her way towards him, he too felt as if his jaw were hanging open. She looked beautiful in that kimono and with her hair like that. He already knew that the kimono would look nice because he had told the tailor exactly how to make it, but he wasn't expecting it to look this good. He watched as she approached him and he held out his arm for her to take.
"You look quite beautiful Ayame." He spoke.
Ayame slightly blushed and took his arm. "Thank you Sesshoumaru. You look rather handsome yourself."
They walked outside and Sesshoumaru conjured his cloud under their feet. They began to rise in the air and Ayame 'eeped' then clung onto Sesshoumaru for safety. They were going so fast and Ayame had never experienced anything like this before. After an hour or so she got used to it and lessened her grip on Sesshoumaru's neck. She looked out over the land and her eyes grew big and bright. It was amazing. She could see for miles. She looked down at the trees tops that were zipping past them and immediatly regreted that she had. They had been traveling most of the day now and it was currently 3:00 p.m.
"We will be there in an hour or so." Sesshoumaru told her.
Ayame was starting to get nervous. She didn't know if she could do this anymore. She was mentally cursing at herself for agreeing to this. Sesshoumaru could smell her fear and nervousness.
"Don't worry, I won't let anything happen." He spoke in a soothing voice to her.
Ayame looked up into his eyes and smiled, "I know, but I still can't help but to be nervous." She then leaned her head against his chest and closed her eyes.
Sesshoumaru wrapped an arm around her waist and held her close. Ayame then opened her eyes and turned so she could look out at the surroundings. In the past few minutes she saw her childhood house appear on the horizon and slowly becom larger and larger as they were getting closer and closer. She was now feeling even more sick and nervous. Sesshoumaru landed on the ground in front of the house and Ayame knew that there was no backing out now, they had arrived.
*Stretch* Yay done with another chapter! Sorry bout the cliffhanger, but this chapter is getting pretty long and if I were to keep going it would be WAY too long. Okay I would still like to have some opinions on the whole lemon thing, cause it should come up soon. The next chapter most likely won't be out for a few days cause I have to think about what's gonna happen and as I said earlier, I've been diagnosed with a bad case of writer's block. Hmmm not much else to say except please review! Until the the next chapter, see ya!
~Aries.