Disclaimer: Yeah, yeah, so I don't own Inuyasha...or anything related to the
show...yeah go ahead, smirk and laugh...make fun of me...but I warn you, my men
are keeping tabs on you all...
Thanks to all my reviewers!!! Sorry it's taken so long. I would've had this up a week ago, but something happened to my computer, and my hard drive was wiped. I didn't even have a picture left... So updates will be a little slower...because all of my outlines for both of my current stories are gone...yup...I know what happens...muahaha, anyways, I apologize!!! And since I don't remember the stats on for what fic I should do next, y'all are going to have to revote!!! SO GO TO MY PROFILE PAGE, AND READ ALL THE SUMMARIES FOR THE INUYASHA FICS, AND VOTE!!!!
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Chapter 7
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Kagome's eyes creaked open with a groan. She did not feel good at all. She groggily attempted to sit up, but quickly changed her mind and laid back down. Her head felt like someone had taken a wooden spoon and beat her over the head with it until a lump grew...not that she knew from experience or anything. She gingerly felt around her head until she found the definite lump on the side. 'Next time when fainting, fall for the soft carpet or something, not the jade vase in the corner,' she reprimanded herself. Kagome wiggled around in an attempt to find a more comfortable sleeping position, then she accidentally put pressure on her lump. She let out a loud "ow" and stayed in her former position.
She glanced to her side and saw Sango sleeping on the cloth mattress next to her. Kagome's curiosity was about to take over her now. She was literally itching to wake Sango up and demand that she explain herself, and tell what was going on between her and Miroku. If she wouldn't, she, Kagome, would make her. She knew the former demons slayers weak spots, but unfortunately Sango knew where she was ticklish too. Kagome winced, it hurt...having to hold in her curiosity...She needed something to distract her from prodding the sleeping figure next to her. It wasn't like she'd be able to sleep anyways; her head was throbbing...painfully, way too much.
Kagome slowly sat up and took a deep breath. Her vision was a bit blurry, and her head hurt...but she could take it. She began to crawl on all fours towards the closet that she shared with Sango. She raised her arm up, and reached for the little latch; she 'unlatched' the closet doors and immediately pulled out a large and bulky white make-shift sack. Her throbbing headache was now forgotten. She nimbly undid the huge knot. The contents of the soft white sheets were probably more of sentimental value, then again her more expensive and valuable things had been hidden amongst the folds of her and Sango's plainer 'work' kimonos. The contents of the bag were two paintings. One of her and Kouga, and a slightly larger one of just Kouga; she traced her fingers over his face. How she missed him! But this time, she did not cry. She was too busy remembering the happy times they had had together. Kagome put everything away, and wobbling, stood up.
She made her way to the door and ignoring the pain she made her way down the hallway. She stumbled up staircase after staircase until she was at the 7th floor. The pain that seared through her head was so great that she had to hold onto the wall for support. 'Big things come in small packages,' Kagome grudgingly thought. She finally walked through them, hardly glancing at the objects and items being displayed. She stopped when she came to the last room. In the middle of the large place was a huge golden shrine placed on top of a display platform. The golden shrine had been built to hold the "greatest treasure of the northern lands," and it was now empty. The "greatest treasure of the northern lands" now stood at the end of a hallway with a hole for Kouga's face.
On the intricately carved wooden display platform was another piece of wood bolted onto it. In gilded wording, the purpose and meaning of the painting was inscribed:
"This here painting is the greatest treasure of the Northern Lands. Not because of what it is, but because of what it represents. Love is the greatest power, and the love that I share with Kagome is stronger than any power here on this earth."
The death of Kouga and the fact that he was gone hit her again, but this time she fully absorbed it. The last week had been so hectic that there were times that she had forgotten that Kouga was gone, and would never return. She began to cry again. She tried to pry the wood with the inscription on it off of the display platform. But it had been bolted on, and would not even budge. Crying she tugged and tugged. Angry, frustrated, and determined to get it off; she got up and pulled a beautiful ornamental katana from the Southern Lands from the wall. It was made of the finest silver with a jewel encrusted silver hilt. The katana was made purely for ornamental purposes and was very heavy.
She swung the heavy blade at the display platform in an attempt to free the inscripted wood from it. She missed the display platform and knocked the gold shrine to the ground. It clattered to the floor with a loud crash. Kagome didn't care that that noise had probably woken up the youkai soldiers and guards. She let out an angry yell, and swung the katana again and this time it slipped from her hands and crashed into a wall. Pieces of the wall fell out and the sheer impact of the katana hitting the wall caused a few other 'treasures' on the wall to come crashing down too. She let out another scream of anguish and began to beat the display platform with her fists. "Why did you die you stupid?! STUPID!!! I HATE YOU!!!" Kagome's anger and sadness now exploded as her long since largely dormant miko powers became 'activated.' A blast of purple shot out from her hands and she blew a hole through the display platform and the wall on the other side. Another hole was about to be put when two hands grabbed her wrists.
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Sesshomaru looked up from his papers and copies of treaties as he heard footsteps. He sniffed the air as the person passed the study room. Lavender...Kagome? 'She's already walking?' Sesshomaru thought curiously. 'Strange.' He really didn't care where Kagome went at the moment; he had a treaty to finish drafting. The rulers of the Southern Lands, a human named Hojo and a wind demoness named Kagura would be here in a day or so. It sickened him somewhat that their offspring would be hanyous. He had heard rumors that Kagura was with child. 'At least their child will be a strong hanyou if not smart,' he thought. He had never really liked that lord Hojo, but then again, it was all rather odd. He was intellectually very smart, but not very bright otherwise.
He was still debating whether or not to offer them the Shikon no Tama to seal their alliance with absolute sureness that they would not become allies of the East, but he alone should be enough for that. He studied the pink jewel that was embedded in the mahogany box. He had no want of it for his powers were so great that if another demon absorbed the jewel whole, he would still be able to defeat them. Perhaps with not as much ease, but he would able to. "Kouga, Kouga, Kouga, you loved your wife so much that you did not even tell her that I attacked, partly because I wanted the Shikon?" Sesshomaru murmured as he shut the box away into the drawer again.
Soon enough, with the way things were going, he would be able to take over the Eastern Lands as well, and his father's lands would be one once more. While his father had been alive, he had split the lands up. He gave the Northern Lands to the leader of the biggest wolf demon pack, for the wolf youkai were distant relatives of the inu youkai. Then his father had given the Southern lands to the humans in an attempt to better the relationship of the demon and human races. His father then saved the Western and Eastern lands for Sesshomaru and his half brother...Inuyasha, his half brother...a hanyou.
But a decade or so ago, his brother had reportedly 'jumped into hell' to join his wife who had died a few years before. Apparently he had gone insane from the pain and heartache his wife's death had caused him, his ambassador who had been at Inuyasha's palace at the time told him that his half brother had yelled something about "soul mates," and "love." He nearly snorted, love...what a foolish notion. Another had taken over since, he did not know who, or what for that matter ruled the Eastern lands now. For those who were even able to get in never came out. None of his messengers ever made it back; he did not even know if they even made it to the Eastern lands. He did recall a peculiar sulfur smell when he patrolled his borders; he never visited the Eastern lands, nor did he send an ambassador, he was not interested in negotiating. He had tolerated his hanyou brother ruling, but someone who was not of blood ruling lands that should now be his, 'irked' him.
Then he heard something. A normal human would not have heard anything, but his sensitive ears heard a definite muffled 'crash.' He slowly stood up and stepped outside. He saw one of his youkai guards running towards him. It was Kougorou. "My lord! I have several men and more ready to go up if needed." Good, so he hadn't been the only to hear it, that and his men were still awake. Sesshomaru eyed Kougorou. Even Kougorou had been with Sesshomaru for a little over a century, he still got the chills when Sesshomaru looked at him like that. "Go back to your posts," was all he said. Kougorou bowed and ran back down the stairs. None of the youkai guards were allowed on here, unless it was the noon time patrol, but Sesshomaru always made sure to be in his study then, and he had placed only his most trusted soldiers and guards to stand at the way up to this floor.
It was because this was his floor, but he allowed Rin to sleep in the room across his, and Kagome and Sango to remain in theirs down the hallway. The 4th floor was rather empty, but he preferred it that way. In the blink of an eye he was on the 5th floor, in another blink he was on the 6th, and finally he was on the 7th. He heard more crashing and frowned, the noise hurt his ears. He slowly approached the first exhibit room, not sure what to expect. He entered the last room as Kagome blew a hole through the wall. Before she did anymore damage, and rushed to her side, and grabbed her wrists.
"Let me go!" she demanded as she tried to pry herself from Sesshomaru's grip.
"I do not think that you are in a position to order me around wench," came an icy voice.
Kagome stopped fighting, and looked up. Through her tears she saw the blurry image of Sesshomaru. "Why are you here?" she asked, disregarding the fact that he was a perhaps temperamental demon, her new 'lord,' and that she as a 'servant' shouldn't even be here.
"The question is, why are you creating this infernal racket?"
Instead of scowling like he had expected her to, she replied with a blunt, "He left me." She continued to cry. "Why did he leave me?" she asked, her voice quivering.
Sesshomaru paused before speaking. He did not know how to reply to that without revealing that he knew her true identity. Right now she reminded him of Rin after her 'pet' butterfly died. She had asked "why." He guessed that she had not known a lot about the reasons for the war. Kouga had probably never told her...about them either, and despite his personality, he had never wanted Kouga to die.
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"Never," Kouga snarled, his eyes bleeding red as he and Sesshomaru slowly circled each other. Any other youkai would've agreed to Sesshomaru's terms, but Kouga had never been a compromiser, negotiator or a loser. His army had literally been demolished when he sacrificed a large number of them to push Sesshomaru's army away from the palace as to give time for the servants, Kagome and his parents to escape to safety. Kouga had only about fifty men left.
"Calm down," Sesshomaru commanded.
"You bastard," Kouga continued.
Sesshomaru took a step closer to Kouga. His eyes were now red too. "You were a fool then, and you're still a fool now," he growled. "Any other idiot would agree to my offer. Now I shall ask you once more,"
"NO!" Kouga roared.
"I do not wish to kill you Kouga," Sesshomaru informed him.
"Why? Scared?"
"I am never scared," Sesshomaru replied, trying to keep calm.
"Oh yes you are," Kouga cut in, "You were scared then, and you're still scared now," he mocked.
"Love is a stupid notion that only humans should believe in." Sesshomaru replied.
"Do you even know what love is Sesshomaru?" Kouga asked, almost laughing.
"This is the last time, yes or no?" Sesshomaru's voice was low and feigned calmness.
Kouga laughed, "You don't, do you?"
Sesshomaru growled and rammed Toukijin into the ground. The ground shook and the ground beneath them began to give away. Sesshomaru immediately jumped and landed on safe ground, but Kouga let out a wolf-like yelp as he fell. A boulder was on top of him, hindering his attempt to escape. Kouga did not send out a cry for help, he fell, his blue eyes still too prideful, and Sesshomaru's golden ones, too prideful to help. As Kouga fell, disappearing underneath the rock, he stood there staring down at him coldly. Kouga had been too proud to ask for his help, now the stupid fool was dead.
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"It was not his choice Kagome," Sesshomaru finally said. In one way he was lying, but in another way, he was telling the truth. Sesshomaru really hadn't meant for him to die.
"That is what they all say," Kagome retorted angrily. "Why did you attack us?" she suddenly asked.
Sesshomaru almost felt like sighing. Kouga had most definitely told her nothing, and he would not tell her either, but long ago he and Kouga had actually been friends. It was almost sort of natural, him being a dog youkai and Kouga being a wolf youkai. Perhaps that was why he had allowed this 'friendship.' He had respected Kouga because although he had been the cleverer, smarter, more ambitious, and more intimidating, Kouga had been stronger, and they were equally quick. Kouga had been of erratic personality, and let his emotions cloud his judgment. Sesshomaru never displayed emotions of any sort.
They trained together, and hunted together, but then Kouga 'fell in love' with a wolf princess named Ayame. Sesshomaru saw less and less of Kouga and still being young, he became jealous and angry. Kouga had been his first and only friend. Kouga knew Sesshomaru was jealous and when Ayame was killed in the landslide, he had blamed and accused him of setting it all up. Then they broke ties, not speaking until Kouga's last moments. It was this experience that had taught Sesshomaru that one could never rely on or trust anyone but themselves. Love caused people to go blind, do foolish things, and that friends were unnecessary.
"I had wanted to be ruler of all the lands," Sesshomaru told her, a slightly distant look filled his eyes, "And Kouga would not agree to my terms." He added, his eyes once again sharp and acute. It was all true, vague, but true. He didn't realize that he had said 'wanted' and 'Kouga.'
Kagome almost smiled, 'That's my Kouga,' she thought. "What changed your mind?" Kagome asked. Even in her distraught state, she had caught the past tense.
Sesshomaru stood there, motionless as he contemplated. "I finally realized the true consequences and results of my actions...but I will still accomplish what I set out to do."
"What are you going to do?" Kagome asked quietly, the tears had stopped, and she just looked up at him. She just looked up at him with wide and shining eyes of dark brown velvet.
Sesshomaru did not reply. He was not going to reveal his 'plan' to her. She didn't need to know about him and Kouga being friends or anything else, for the first time in his life, he was at loss.
Kagome looked down at her hands. For a split second, Sesshomaru thought that she would make a snide or sarcastic remark. "Um...Lord Sesshomaru?" she asked rather timidly. "Can...can...you please hold me?" she asked. Even though he was caught off guard, it did not show through his stoic mask. "So that I can pretend that Kouga's holding me..." she added hastily. Without thinking, Sesshomaru sat down, almost mechanically. He then rather awkwardly held her. He had never held anyone before...not even Rin.
Kagome leaned into his chest. Sesshomaru stiffened, he wasn't sure what to think about this 'holding,' but he found his hold on her waist tightening. "You're not so scary right now," Kagome commented softly. "I can see why Rin adores you."
"Rin has never seen me like this before," he admitted.
A look of surprise crossed Kagome's face. "Well you should let her. She loves you a lot." Sesshomaru's nostrils flared. Love. It idea made him want to gag...if he could that is. Sometimes he was so peeved by it that he even considered writing a literary work about the true and many faces of 'love.' "Everyone needs to love or be loved." Kagome murmured.
Sesshomaru was going to demand that she explain, but she was asleep. Sesshomaru watched her as she slept, she looked so calm and serene, even he felt at peace, but that was usually the opposite of what the human girl exuded when she was awake. Awake, she gave him headaches. He had to admit, he liked the sleeping Kagome better. ((A/N: snickers at least for now!)) "You are the strangest human...Kagome," he said out loud, "But perhaps that is why I find your presence tolerable." It was true though. Something about her had compelled him to save her from burning to death that one time, and now he was already 'holding' her so that she could pretend that he was her dead love. He felt almost insulted for a moment. Sesshomaru didn't know how to explain it. It was plain as that, he felt confused, what was this girl doing to him?
He wasn't sure if he liked this strange feeling that had washed over him or not. He looked down at Kagome and holding her in his arms, he stood up and left the exhibit rooms. He would ask what she was doing there tomorrow. He was at the 4th floor in a few seconds. He silently entered the room she shared with Sango and tried to set her down, but she had a tight hold on his kimono. "Do you find my presence enjoyable when I am like this?" he asked her quietly as he left the room with Kagome in tow. He headed for his room, and set her in the bed. Then he left for his study.
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She stood there in a dark room. The only light there was shined down on her. Everywhere else was black. She stood there, alone, yelling his name. Finally she broke down and began to cry. Then he came. "I thought that you left me," she sobbed.
"I'll never truly leave you Kagome," he assured her. "What sort of man would I be if I left my woman alone?" Kagome smiled through her tears as he flashed his trademark smirk, then his face became serious again. "But you have to let me go," he continued. "I'm gone Kagome. You have to let go...so that you can love again." He knelt down so that he was level with Kagome. He then cupped her cheeks with his hands, "That was how I was able to fall in love with you."
Kagome closed her eyes, and more tears fell. "I don't care," she shot back childishly, freeing herself from Kouga's hands. She knew that he had been in love with another wolf princess named Ayame, and she didn't care. She knew that he truly loved her. It had taken Kouga decadeds before he was able to love again. Would it take her that long too? By the time she wa done thinking, he was gone, and she was alone...in the darkness...again. Then she began to run.
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Sesshomaru contemplated on what had just happened. He head interacted with another being, a human for that matter, in what could be labeled as a kind way. He was trying to identify this foreign feeling inside him, for even when he was slightly affectionate to his young ward he had never felt like this before. He listened to her fret in the bedroom, and heard her mutter Kouga's name. If only she knew. Maybe she'd find out on her own accord someday. He had offered Kouga his life back, and Kouga had acted like an ungrateful bastard, letting his emotions get in the way again. A hand had touched Tenseiga, he could've, but he didn't, and now it was too late.
He rubbed his temples. Dwelling on the past was not a good thing. He then resumed his rough draft of the treaty. That reminded him, according to his spies, Lord Koji and lady Yukiki had reportedly been making their way for the Southern lands. He would have a nice little 'talk' over tea with Lord Hojo. He worked well into the early morning hours and fell into a light doze after he finished.
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"Pretty lady Kagome!!!" a voice yelled.
Kagome's left eye opened. "What?" she grumbled as she opened her other eye. She was greeted with the sight of Rin's face, grinning down at her. "Rin?" Kagome blinked owlishly. "What are you doing here?"
"Sesshomaru-sama told Rin to come and wake you up." Rin explained.
"What time is it?" Kagome then asked.
"For Kagome to play with Rin!" Rin exclaimed gleefully.
"Actually I need to ask-" Kagome began as she rubbed her eyes.
"Sesshomaru-sama already said 'ok.' He said that weak, lazy and fat humans like you couldn't do much else." Rin interrupted, oblivious that she was passing on an insult from Sesshomaru to Kagome.
Kagome yawned, and didn't absorb what Rin had said She was too busy looking around the room. Even though it hadn't been more than a week or so, the room was completely different. Her dresser was gone and the room had been painted. There was also a wooden statue of a great big dog demon in the corner. But what made her catch her breath was the beautiful portrait of a lady and a man on the wall where her dresser used to be. She suspected they were demons...his parents. Sesshomaru looked almost exactly like his father, except that his father's face was a little rounder, that and he was smiling. Sesshomaru's mother's cheeks were even more defined than his, and she had a beautiful and dazzling smile. She had light golden brown hair with warm hazel eyes, she contrasted with her husband. 'Like gold and silver,' Kagome thought.
"That's Sesshomaru-sama's mummy and daddy," Rin told her, "They're very pretty like Sesshomaru-sama." Kagome smiled. Sesshomaru...pretty...hahaha.
Then Jaken came waddling into the room. "You there!" he squeaked as he pointed the Staff of many heads at Kagome. "Lord Sesshomaru wishes to see you in his study."
"No Jaken! Kagome is going to play with Rin!" Rin protested before Kagome could say anything.
"Stupid girl, Sesshomaru's words are law!"
Rin eyed him suspiciously before a mischievous glint filled her eyes. "If pretty lady cannot play with Rin...then Jaken will!" Jaken's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as Rin practically leaped off of the bed, and raced after Jaken who was begging her to be merciful.
Kagome laughed, and pushed herself off of the bed. She went for the door, but stopped. She took a few steps back, and stationed herself in front of 'her' closet. Why was it still here? She opened it out of curiosity and saw that all of her fancy kimonos were still there...why hadn't they been thrown away? Then she heard someone speak, "What are you doing?"
Kagome whirled around, and came face to chest with Sesshomaru. "Admiring these pretty kimonos!" she said hurriedly.
"At least you are honest," he sniffed, "Into my study...now," Kagome glared at the back of Sesshomaru's head as she followed him out. If only her glare could burn holes through his thick skull. It was all as if last night hadn't happened. Sesshomaru...nice? Hahaha. "You are aware that your friend...the taijiya wench...gives Rin self defense lessons in the mornings?" Kagome nodded. "Very well then, you are in charge of teaching her literature, and since you were a 'high ranking servant,' you can teach her some etiquette as well."
Kagome wanted to give him a good shake, and ask if he were insane. Last night had definitely been a dream. Sesshomaru pouring out his heart and soul...well at least admitting that what he had done hadn't given him the best feeling ever, and him comforting her had all been figments of her overactive and wishful imagination. Wishful? No way. It must have been a nightmare. She was about to bring up last night when Sesshomaru cut in. "Last night did not happen," he told her sternly. He then returned to his paperwork.
He had gone to bed with that strange feeling when it suddenly occurred to him. His youkai guards and soldiers could not and would not find out about Kagome's true identity, if they did, he would be forced to kill her to keep face. That was the same reason that he had to be like this. He had dealt with many many complications, and many many fools who thought that they could overthrow him after he brought in Rin. They took his sign of compassion as a weakness...an opportunity....
"STOP IT!" she yelled angrily. "You're so worried about what everyone thinks about you that it sickens me!"
Before Sesshomaru had the chance to kill her, Kaede came hobbling in. "Lord Hojo and Lady Kagura are now in thee castle garden parameters Lord Sesshomaru." she announced.
Sesshomaru merely nodded and Kaede left, acting oblivious to the tension in the air. Sesshomaru eyed Kagome, and Kagome wanted nothing more than to run and hide from that 'look.' His amber eyes bored into her dark brown ones...she felt as if he was able to see into her soul...she gave an involuntary shiver, no matter how much she hated to admit it...she was scared. Then he spoke, "You will accompany," he began slowly, "the monk and your friend to the nearest village to be married. I expect you all to be back by sunset tomorrow." Kagome's mind began to scheme. She could leave this stupid place and never have to see Lord Fluffy ever again. Her chest felt lighter, and her heart swelled with hope. "If not, I will come find you myself." She was yanked back down to earth, and her heart began rock heavy again. She looked up at him glumly, "Dog youkais have extremely good noses."
Kagome laughed nervously, and left as quick as she could. She practically ran to her room, afraid that he would call her back, and that she would only end up quivering under his glare. She packed all of her belongings, all of the expensive jewelry that she used to wear, the elaborate kimonos and yukatas, and the paintings. She shook as she packed; she could still hear Sesshomaru's warning, but there had to be a way...this had to be the opportunity...right? With extremely large bulks, one in each hand, and another slung over her shoulder, she tottered out of the room.
She wandered around the palace, ignoring the strange looks the youkai guards gave her, and smiled, almost uncertainly at the servants who gave the 'knowing' look. She tried to avoid the hawk youkai Akeno, and the cougar youkai, Kougorou. They were already suspicious enough as it was, but unfortunately, she ran into Akeno who merely inquired where she was going. She then found Sango and Miroku, bickering out by the stables. "We're taking THREE horses Houshi-sama."
"Now, now Sango, how many times must I ask you forget the formalities and just call me...Miroku?"
"Three horses." Sango repeated.
Miroku groaned, and let out a sigh of defeat. "Very well my love..."
"So you guys are really going to et married?" Kagome interjected as she noted the murderous look that Sango shot him. She dumped her parcels into Miroku's arms, and sent him away to the horses. Sango whirled around.
"Kagome! Where have you been?" she asked worried. "When I woke up this morning, you were gone."
Kagome paused. "Upstairs...in the exhibit rooms," she replied. "Fluffy wanted me to prove that I was the museum guide..." She winced inwardly. She hated lying...even if it was just withholding the truth...uh no...she was turning pink...oh yeah...she couldn't lie properly.
"Kagome?"
Kagome let out a nervous "heh." "Yes Sango?" Sango raised an eyebrow. Kagome withered. "Ok! Fine then. Just don't...look at me like that," Sango's eyebrow twitched. "I was talking to Sesshomaru." Kagome grumbled.
"About?!" Sango demanded a little too loudly.
Kagome was never so glad to see Miroku. "Oh look! We better get going. Sunset tomorrow doesn't give us a lot of time!" Kagome said cheerfully as she hoisted herself onto the horse. She didn't ride horses much, but then again, she had never really needed to. She followed Sango and Miroku's horses, and caught how Miroku longingly gazed at Sango who was completely oblivious. She had yet to make Sango spill.
She couldn't believe that she hadn't asked Sango for all these years about her and Miroku. Sango had been a prisoner- the last one surviving when her and some of her fellow demon slayers had attempted to kill Kouga and some his men. Sango's people were part of the minority of humans in this region who still hated demons....also known as, the extremists. Sango was to be executed, but Kagome had somehow convinced Kouga, his parents, and the advisors to spare her life and make her Kagome's personal servant. It definitely hadn't been easy...she couldn't even recall how she had done it, but it had been done, and Sango had softened up on her opinion of demons. She was still rather hasty when it came to killing them, but it was an improvement.
Before she disappeared into the palace garden's forest, she glanced back at it. Then her stomach gave a loud rumble, disrupting the serene and peaceful aura that had surrounded them a few moments before. Sango and Miroku both turned around. "You okay there Kagome?" Sango asked.
"Perhaps we should stop and get Lady Kagome something to eat." Miroku suggested.
"No, I'm okay. My stomach just sometimes...does that." Sango and Miroku shot her strange looks, but continued. 'Great Kagome, ruin the moment...' She tried to ignore her the hunger that gnawed at her stomach, and tried to appreciate the lush and green scenery. It reminded her of a salad...she tried to just stare down at the horse's mane...the smooth and sleek black main of her brown horse. It reminded her of the cold black noodles she ate in the summer. "Hey guys...I'm sort of hungry..."
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A/N: Okay, so it wasn't the best ending for the chapter...for some reason, I didn't even like this chapter that much...anyways, lots of 'history' and lots of the 'past' has been revealed. I hope it flows... SO the plot thickens...and stories of the past are revealed...and three of our heroes leave to the nearest village where Miroku and Sango will be married. What will occur while they're away? And will Kagome make a run for it? Tune in for the next installment.
Thanks to all my reviewers!!! Sorry it's taken so long. I would've had this up a week ago, but something happened to my computer, and my hard drive was wiped. I didn't even have a picture left... So updates will be a little slower...because all of my outlines for both of my current stories are gone...yup...I know what happens...muahaha, anyways, I apologize!!! And since I don't remember the stats on for what fic I should do next, y'all are going to have to revote!!! SO GO TO MY PROFILE PAGE, AND READ ALL THE SUMMARIES FOR THE INUYASHA FICS, AND VOTE!!!!
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Chapter 7
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Kagome's eyes creaked open with a groan. She did not feel good at all. She groggily attempted to sit up, but quickly changed her mind and laid back down. Her head felt like someone had taken a wooden spoon and beat her over the head with it until a lump grew...not that she knew from experience or anything. She gingerly felt around her head until she found the definite lump on the side. 'Next time when fainting, fall for the soft carpet or something, not the jade vase in the corner,' she reprimanded herself. Kagome wiggled around in an attempt to find a more comfortable sleeping position, then she accidentally put pressure on her lump. She let out a loud "ow" and stayed in her former position.
She glanced to her side and saw Sango sleeping on the cloth mattress next to her. Kagome's curiosity was about to take over her now. She was literally itching to wake Sango up and demand that she explain herself, and tell what was going on between her and Miroku. If she wouldn't, she, Kagome, would make her. She knew the former demons slayers weak spots, but unfortunately Sango knew where she was ticklish too. Kagome winced, it hurt...having to hold in her curiosity...She needed something to distract her from prodding the sleeping figure next to her. It wasn't like she'd be able to sleep anyways; her head was throbbing...painfully, way too much.
Kagome slowly sat up and took a deep breath. Her vision was a bit blurry, and her head hurt...but she could take it. She began to crawl on all fours towards the closet that she shared with Sango. She raised her arm up, and reached for the little latch; she 'unlatched' the closet doors and immediately pulled out a large and bulky white make-shift sack. Her throbbing headache was now forgotten. She nimbly undid the huge knot. The contents of the soft white sheets were probably more of sentimental value, then again her more expensive and valuable things had been hidden amongst the folds of her and Sango's plainer 'work' kimonos. The contents of the bag were two paintings. One of her and Kouga, and a slightly larger one of just Kouga; she traced her fingers over his face. How she missed him! But this time, she did not cry. She was too busy remembering the happy times they had had together. Kagome put everything away, and wobbling, stood up.
She made her way to the door and ignoring the pain she made her way down the hallway. She stumbled up staircase after staircase until she was at the 7th floor. The pain that seared through her head was so great that she had to hold onto the wall for support. 'Big things come in small packages,' Kagome grudgingly thought. She finally walked through them, hardly glancing at the objects and items being displayed. She stopped when she came to the last room. In the middle of the large place was a huge golden shrine placed on top of a display platform. The golden shrine had been built to hold the "greatest treasure of the northern lands," and it was now empty. The "greatest treasure of the northern lands" now stood at the end of a hallway with a hole for Kouga's face.
On the intricately carved wooden display platform was another piece of wood bolted onto it. In gilded wording, the purpose and meaning of the painting was inscribed:
"This here painting is the greatest treasure of the Northern Lands. Not because of what it is, but because of what it represents. Love is the greatest power, and the love that I share with Kagome is stronger than any power here on this earth."
The death of Kouga and the fact that he was gone hit her again, but this time she fully absorbed it. The last week had been so hectic that there were times that she had forgotten that Kouga was gone, and would never return. She began to cry again. She tried to pry the wood with the inscription on it off of the display platform. But it had been bolted on, and would not even budge. Crying she tugged and tugged. Angry, frustrated, and determined to get it off; she got up and pulled a beautiful ornamental katana from the Southern Lands from the wall. It was made of the finest silver with a jewel encrusted silver hilt. The katana was made purely for ornamental purposes and was very heavy.
She swung the heavy blade at the display platform in an attempt to free the inscripted wood from it. She missed the display platform and knocked the gold shrine to the ground. It clattered to the floor with a loud crash. Kagome didn't care that that noise had probably woken up the youkai soldiers and guards. She let out an angry yell, and swung the katana again and this time it slipped from her hands and crashed into a wall. Pieces of the wall fell out and the sheer impact of the katana hitting the wall caused a few other 'treasures' on the wall to come crashing down too. She let out another scream of anguish and began to beat the display platform with her fists. "Why did you die you stupid?! STUPID!!! I HATE YOU!!!" Kagome's anger and sadness now exploded as her long since largely dormant miko powers became 'activated.' A blast of purple shot out from her hands and she blew a hole through the display platform and the wall on the other side. Another hole was about to be put when two hands grabbed her wrists.
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Sesshomaru looked up from his papers and copies of treaties as he heard footsteps. He sniffed the air as the person passed the study room. Lavender...Kagome? 'She's already walking?' Sesshomaru thought curiously. 'Strange.' He really didn't care where Kagome went at the moment; he had a treaty to finish drafting. The rulers of the Southern Lands, a human named Hojo and a wind demoness named Kagura would be here in a day or so. It sickened him somewhat that their offspring would be hanyous. He had heard rumors that Kagura was with child. 'At least their child will be a strong hanyou if not smart,' he thought. He had never really liked that lord Hojo, but then again, it was all rather odd. He was intellectually very smart, but not very bright otherwise.
He was still debating whether or not to offer them the Shikon no Tama to seal their alliance with absolute sureness that they would not become allies of the East, but he alone should be enough for that. He studied the pink jewel that was embedded in the mahogany box. He had no want of it for his powers were so great that if another demon absorbed the jewel whole, he would still be able to defeat them. Perhaps with not as much ease, but he would able to. "Kouga, Kouga, Kouga, you loved your wife so much that you did not even tell her that I attacked, partly because I wanted the Shikon?" Sesshomaru murmured as he shut the box away into the drawer again.
Soon enough, with the way things were going, he would be able to take over the Eastern Lands as well, and his father's lands would be one once more. While his father had been alive, he had split the lands up. He gave the Northern Lands to the leader of the biggest wolf demon pack, for the wolf youkai were distant relatives of the inu youkai. Then his father had given the Southern lands to the humans in an attempt to better the relationship of the demon and human races. His father then saved the Western and Eastern lands for Sesshomaru and his half brother...Inuyasha, his half brother...a hanyou.
But a decade or so ago, his brother had reportedly 'jumped into hell' to join his wife who had died a few years before. Apparently he had gone insane from the pain and heartache his wife's death had caused him, his ambassador who had been at Inuyasha's palace at the time told him that his half brother had yelled something about "soul mates," and "love." He nearly snorted, love...what a foolish notion. Another had taken over since, he did not know who, or what for that matter ruled the Eastern lands now. For those who were even able to get in never came out. None of his messengers ever made it back; he did not even know if they even made it to the Eastern lands. He did recall a peculiar sulfur smell when he patrolled his borders; he never visited the Eastern lands, nor did he send an ambassador, he was not interested in negotiating. He had tolerated his hanyou brother ruling, but someone who was not of blood ruling lands that should now be his, 'irked' him.
Then he heard something. A normal human would not have heard anything, but his sensitive ears heard a definite muffled 'crash.' He slowly stood up and stepped outside. He saw one of his youkai guards running towards him. It was Kougorou. "My lord! I have several men and more ready to go up if needed." Good, so he hadn't been the only to hear it, that and his men were still awake. Sesshomaru eyed Kougorou. Even Kougorou had been with Sesshomaru for a little over a century, he still got the chills when Sesshomaru looked at him like that. "Go back to your posts," was all he said. Kougorou bowed and ran back down the stairs. None of the youkai guards were allowed on here, unless it was the noon time patrol, but Sesshomaru always made sure to be in his study then, and he had placed only his most trusted soldiers and guards to stand at the way up to this floor.
It was because this was his floor, but he allowed Rin to sleep in the room across his, and Kagome and Sango to remain in theirs down the hallway. The 4th floor was rather empty, but he preferred it that way. In the blink of an eye he was on the 5th floor, in another blink he was on the 6th, and finally he was on the 7th. He heard more crashing and frowned, the noise hurt his ears. He slowly approached the first exhibit room, not sure what to expect. He entered the last room as Kagome blew a hole through the wall. Before she did anymore damage, and rushed to her side, and grabbed her wrists.
"Let me go!" she demanded as she tried to pry herself from Sesshomaru's grip.
"I do not think that you are in a position to order me around wench," came an icy voice.
Kagome stopped fighting, and looked up. Through her tears she saw the blurry image of Sesshomaru. "Why are you here?" she asked, disregarding the fact that he was a perhaps temperamental demon, her new 'lord,' and that she as a 'servant' shouldn't even be here.
"The question is, why are you creating this infernal racket?"
Instead of scowling like he had expected her to, she replied with a blunt, "He left me." She continued to cry. "Why did he leave me?" she asked, her voice quivering.
Sesshomaru paused before speaking. He did not know how to reply to that without revealing that he knew her true identity. Right now she reminded him of Rin after her 'pet' butterfly died. She had asked "why." He guessed that she had not known a lot about the reasons for the war. Kouga had probably never told her...about them either, and despite his personality, he had never wanted Kouga to die.
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"Never," Kouga snarled, his eyes bleeding red as he and Sesshomaru slowly circled each other. Any other youkai would've agreed to Sesshomaru's terms, but Kouga had never been a compromiser, negotiator or a loser. His army had literally been demolished when he sacrificed a large number of them to push Sesshomaru's army away from the palace as to give time for the servants, Kagome and his parents to escape to safety. Kouga had only about fifty men left.
"Calm down," Sesshomaru commanded.
"You bastard," Kouga continued.
Sesshomaru took a step closer to Kouga. His eyes were now red too. "You were a fool then, and you're still a fool now," he growled. "Any other idiot would agree to my offer. Now I shall ask you once more,"
"NO!" Kouga roared.
"I do not wish to kill you Kouga," Sesshomaru informed him.
"Why? Scared?"
"I am never scared," Sesshomaru replied, trying to keep calm.
"Oh yes you are," Kouga cut in, "You were scared then, and you're still scared now," he mocked.
"Love is a stupid notion that only humans should believe in." Sesshomaru replied.
"Do you even know what love is Sesshomaru?" Kouga asked, almost laughing.
"This is the last time, yes or no?" Sesshomaru's voice was low and feigned calmness.
Kouga laughed, "You don't, do you?"
Sesshomaru growled and rammed Toukijin into the ground. The ground shook and the ground beneath them began to give away. Sesshomaru immediately jumped and landed on safe ground, but Kouga let out a wolf-like yelp as he fell. A boulder was on top of him, hindering his attempt to escape. Kouga did not send out a cry for help, he fell, his blue eyes still too prideful, and Sesshomaru's golden ones, too prideful to help. As Kouga fell, disappearing underneath the rock, he stood there staring down at him coldly. Kouga had been too proud to ask for his help, now the stupid fool was dead.
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"It was not his choice Kagome," Sesshomaru finally said. In one way he was lying, but in another way, he was telling the truth. Sesshomaru really hadn't meant for him to die.
"That is what they all say," Kagome retorted angrily. "Why did you attack us?" she suddenly asked.
Sesshomaru almost felt like sighing. Kouga had most definitely told her nothing, and he would not tell her either, but long ago he and Kouga had actually been friends. It was almost sort of natural, him being a dog youkai and Kouga being a wolf youkai. Perhaps that was why he had allowed this 'friendship.' He had respected Kouga because although he had been the cleverer, smarter, more ambitious, and more intimidating, Kouga had been stronger, and they were equally quick. Kouga had been of erratic personality, and let his emotions cloud his judgment. Sesshomaru never displayed emotions of any sort.
They trained together, and hunted together, but then Kouga 'fell in love' with a wolf princess named Ayame. Sesshomaru saw less and less of Kouga and still being young, he became jealous and angry. Kouga had been his first and only friend. Kouga knew Sesshomaru was jealous and when Ayame was killed in the landslide, he had blamed and accused him of setting it all up. Then they broke ties, not speaking until Kouga's last moments. It was this experience that had taught Sesshomaru that one could never rely on or trust anyone but themselves. Love caused people to go blind, do foolish things, and that friends were unnecessary.
"I had wanted to be ruler of all the lands," Sesshomaru told her, a slightly distant look filled his eyes, "And Kouga would not agree to my terms." He added, his eyes once again sharp and acute. It was all true, vague, but true. He didn't realize that he had said 'wanted' and 'Kouga.'
Kagome almost smiled, 'That's my Kouga,' she thought. "What changed your mind?" Kagome asked. Even in her distraught state, she had caught the past tense.
Sesshomaru stood there, motionless as he contemplated. "I finally realized the true consequences and results of my actions...but I will still accomplish what I set out to do."
"What are you going to do?" Kagome asked quietly, the tears had stopped, and she just looked up at him. She just looked up at him with wide and shining eyes of dark brown velvet.
Sesshomaru did not reply. He was not going to reveal his 'plan' to her. She didn't need to know about him and Kouga being friends or anything else, for the first time in his life, he was at loss.
Kagome looked down at her hands. For a split second, Sesshomaru thought that she would make a snide or sarcastic remark. "Um...Lord Sesshomaru?" she asked rather timidly. "Can...can...you please hold me?" she asked. Even though he was caught off guard, it did not show through his stoic mask. "So that I can pretend that Kouga's holding me..." she added hastily. Without thinking, Sesshomaru sat down, almost mechanically. He then rather awkwardly held her. He had never held anyone before...not even Rin.
Kagome leaned into his chest. Sesshomaru stiffened, he wasn't sure what to think about this 'holding,' but he found his hold on her waist tightening. "You're not so scary right now," Kagome commented softly. "I can see why Rin adores you."
"Rin has never seen me like this before," he admitted.
A look of surprise crossed Kagome's face. "Well you should let her. She loves you a lot." Sesshomaru's nostrils flared. Love. It idea made him want to gag...if he could that is. Sometimes he was so peeved by it that he even considered writing a literary work about the true and many faces of 'love.' "Everyone needs to love or be loved." Kagome murmured.
Sesshomaru was going to demand that she explain, but she was asleep. Sesshomaru watched her as she slept, she looked so calm and serene, even he felt at peace, but that was usually the opposite of what the human girl exuded when she was awake. Awake, she gave him headaches. He had to admit, he liked the sleeping Kagome better. ((A/N: snickers at least for now!)) "You are the strangest human...Kagome," he said out loud, "But perhaps that is why I find your presence tolerable." It was true though. Something about her had compelled him to save her from burning to death that one time, and now he was already 'holding' her so that she could pretend that he was her dead love. He felt almost insulted for a moment. Sesshomaru didn't know how to explain it. It was plain as that, he felt confused, what was this girl doing to him?
He wasn't sure if he liked this strange feeling that had washed over him or not. He looked down at Kagome and holding her in his arms, he stood up and left the exhibit rooms. He would ask what she was doing there tomorrow. He was at the 4th floor in a few seconds. He silently entered the room she shared with Sango and tried to set her down, but she had a tight hold on his kimono. "Do you find my presence enjoyable when I am like this?" he asked her quietly as he left the room with Kagome in tow. He headed for his room, and set her in the bed. Then he left for his study.
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She stood there in a dark room. The only light there was shined down on her. Everywhere else was black. She stood there, alone, yelling his name. Finally she broke down and began to cry. Then he came. "I thought that you left me," she sobbed.
"I'll never truly leave you Kagome," he assured her. "What sort of man would I be if I left my woman alone?" Kagome smiled through her tears as he flashed his trademark smirk, then his face became serious again. "But you have to let me go," he continued. "I'm gone Kagome. You have to let go...so that you can love again." He knelt down so that he was level with Kagome. He then cupped her cheeks with his hands, "That was how I was able to fall in love with you."
Kagome closed her eyes, and more tears fell. "I don't care," she shot back childishly, freeing herself from Kouga's hands. She knew that he had been in love with another wolf princess named Ayame, and she didn't care. She knew that he truly loved her. It had taken Kouga decadeds before he was able to love again. Would it take her that long too? By the time she wa done thinking, he was gone, and she was alone...in the darkness...again. Then she began to run.
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Sesshomaru contemplated on what had just happened. He head interacted with another being, a human for that matter, in what could be labeled as a kind way. He was trying to identify this foreign feeling inside him, for even when he was slightly affectionate to his young ward he had never felt like this before. He listened to her fret in the bedroom, and heard her mutter Kouga's name. If only she knew. Maybe she'd find out on her own accord someday. He had offered Kouga his life back, and Kouga had acted like an ungrateful bastard, letting his emotions get in the way again. A hand had touched Tenseiga, he could've, but he didn't, and now it was too late.
He rubbed his temples. Dwelling on the past was not a good thing. He then resumed his rough draft of the treaty. That reminded him, according to his spies, Lord Koji and lady Yukiki had reportedly been making their way for the Southern lands. He would have a nice little 'talk' over tea with Lord Hojo. He worked well into the early morning hours and fell into a light doze after he finished.
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"Pretty lady Kagome!!!" a voice yelled.
Kagome's left eye opened. "What?" she grumbled as she opened her other eye. She was greeted with the sight of Rin's face, grinning down at her. "Rin?" Kagome blinked owlishly. "What are you doing here?"
"Sesshomaru-sama told Rin to come and wake you up." Rin explained.
"What time is it?" Kagome then asked.
"For Kagome to play with Rin!" Rin exclaimed gleefully.
"Actually I need to ask-" Kagome began as she rubbed her eyes.
"Sesshomaru-sama already said 'ok.' He said that weak, lazy and fat humans like you couldn't do much else." Rin interrupted, oblivious that she was passing on an insult from Sesshomaru to Kagome.
Kagome yawned, and didn't absorb what Rin had said She was too busy looking around the room. Even though it hadn't been more than a week or so, the room was completely different. Her dresser was gone and the room had been painted. There was also a wooden statue of a great big dog demon in the corner. But what made her catch her breath was the beautiful portrait of a lady and a man on the wall where her dresser used to be. She suspected they were demons...his parents. Sesshomaru looked almost exactly like his father, except that his father's face was a little rounder, that and he was smiling. Sesshomaru's mother's cheeks were even more defined than his, and she had a beautiful and dazzling smile. She had light golden brown hair with warm hazel eyes, she contrasted with her husband. 'Like gold and silver,' Kagome thought.
"That's Sesshomaru-sama's mummy and daddy," Rin told her, "They're very pretty like Sesshomaru-sama." Kagome smiled. Sesshomaru...pretty...hahaha.
Then Jaken came waddling into the room. "You there!" he squeaked as he pointed the Staff of many heads at Kagome. "Lord Sesshomaru wishes to see you in his study."
"No Jaken! Kagome is going to play with Rin!" Rin protested before Kagome could say anything.
"Stupid girl, Sesshomaru's words are law!"
Rin eyed him suspiciously before a mischievous glint filled her eyes. "If pretty lady cannot play with Rin...then Jaken will!" Jaken's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets as Rin practically leaped off of the bed, and raced after Jaken who was begging her to be merciful.
Kagome laughed, and pushed herself off of the bed. She went for the door, but stopped. She took a few steps back, and stationed herself in front of 'her' closet. Why was it still here? She opened it out of curiosity and saw that all of her fancy kimonos were still there...why hadn't they been thrown away? Then she heard someone speak, "What are you doing?"
Kagome whirled around, and came face to chest with Sesshomaru. "Admiring these pretty kimonos!" she said hurriedly.
"At least you are honest," he sniffed, "Into my study...now," Kagome glared at the back of Sesshomaru's head as she followed him out. If only her glare could burn holes through his thick skull. It was all as if last night hadn't happened. Sesshomaru...nice? Hahaha. "You are aware that your friend...the taijiya wench...gives Rin self defense lessons in the mornings?" Kagome nodded. "Very well then, you are in charge of teaching her literature, and since you were a 'high ranking servant,' you can teach her some etiquette as well."
Kagome wanted to give him a good shake, and ask if he were insane. Last night had definitely been a dream. Sesshomaru pouring out his heart and soul...well at least admitting that what he had done hadn't given him the best feeling ever, and him comforting her had all been figments of her overactive and wishful imagination. Wishful? No way. It must have been a nightmare. She was about to bring up last night when Sesshomaru cut in. "Last night did not happen," he told her sternly. He then returned to his paperwork.
He had gone to bed with that strange feeling when it suddenly occurred to him. His youkai guards and soldiers could not and would not find out about Kagome's true identity, if they did, he would be forced to kill her to keep face. That was the same reason that he had to be like this. He had dealt with many many complications, and many many fools who thought that they could overthrow him after he brought in Rin. They took his sign of compassion as a weakness...an opportunity....
"STOP IT!" she yelled angrily. "You're so worried about what everyone thinks about you that it sickens me!"
Before Sesshomaru had the chance to kill her, Kaede came hobbling in. "Lord Hojo and Lady Kagura are now in thee castle garden parameters Lord Sesshomaru." she announced.
Sesshomaru merely nodded and Kaede left, acting oblivious to the tension in the air. Sesshomaru eyed Kagome, and Kagome wanted nothing more than to run and hide from that 'look.' His amber eyes bored into her dark brown ones...she felt as if he was able to see into her soul...she gave an involuntary shiver, no matter how much she hated to admit it...she was scared. Then he spoke, "You will accompany," he began slowly, "the monk and your friend to the nearest village to be married. I expect you all to be back by sunset tomorrow." Kagome's mind began to scheme. She could leave this stupid place and never have to see Lord Fluffy ever again. Her chest felt lighter, and her heart swelled with hope. "If not, I will come find you myself." She was yanked back down to earth, and her heart began rock heavy again. She looked up at him glumly, "Dog youkais have extremely good noses."
Kagome laughed nervously, and left as quick as she could. She practically ran to her room, afraid that he would call her back, and that she would only end up quivering under his glare. She packed all of her belongings, all of the expensive jewelry that she used to wear, the elaborate kimonos and yukatas, and the paintings. She shook as she packed; she could still hear Sesshomaru's warning, but there had to be a way...this had to be the opportunity...right? With extremely large bulks, one in each hand, and another slung over her shoulder, she tottered out of the room.
She wandered around the palace, ignoring the strange looks the youkai guards gave her, and smiled, almost uncertainly at the servants who gave the 'knowing' look. She tried to avoid the hawk youkai Akeno, and the cougar youkai, Kougorou. They were already suspicious enough as it was, but unfortunately, she ran into Akeno who merely inquired where she was going. She then found Sango and Miroku, bickering out by the stables. "We're taking THREE horses Houshi-sama."
"Now, now Sango, how many times must I ask you forget the formalities and just call me...Miroku?"
"Three horses." Sango repeated.
Miroku groaned, and let out a sigh of defeat. "Very well my love..."
"So you guys are really going to et married?" Kagome interjected as she noted the murderous look that Sango shot him. She dumped her parcels into Miroku's arms, and sent him away to the horses. Sango whirled around.
"Kagome! Where have you been?" she asked worried. "When I woke up this morning, you were gone."
Kagome paused. "Upstairs...in the exhibit rooms," she replied. "Fluffy wanted me to prove that I was the museum guide..." She winced inwardly. She hated lying...even if it was just withholding the truth...uh no...she was turning pink...oh yeah...she couldn't lie properly.
"Kagome?"
Kagome let out a nervous "heh." "Yes Sango?" Sango raised an eyebrow. Kagome withered. "Ok! Fine then. Just don't...look at me like that," Sango's eyebrow twitched. "I was talking to Sesshomaru." Kagome grumbled.
"About?!" Sango demanded a little too loudly.
Kagome was never so glad to see Miroku. "Oh look! We better get going. Sunset tomorrow doesn't give us a lot of time!" Kagome said cheerfully as she hoisted herself onto the horse. She didn't ride horses much, but then again, she had never really needed to. She followed Sango and Miroku's horses, and caught how Miroku longingly gazed at Sango who was completely oblivious. She had yet to make Sango spill.
She couldn't believe that she hadn't asked Sango for all these years about her and Miroku. Sango had been a prisoner- the last one surviving when her and some of her fellow demon slayers had attempted to kill Kouga and some his men. Sango's people were part of the minority of humans in this region who still hated demons....also known as, the extremists. Sango was to be executed, but Kagome had somehow convinced Kouga, his parents, and the advisors to spare her life and make her Kagome's personal servant. It definitely hadn't been easy...she couldn't even recall how she had done it, but it had been done, and Sango had softened up on her opinion of demons. She was still rather hasty when it came to killing them, but it was an improvement.
Before she disappeared into the palace garden's forest, she glanced back at it. Then her stomach gave a loud rumble, disrupting the serene and peaceful aura that had surrounded them a few moments before. Sango and Miroku both turned around. "You okay there Kagome?" Sango asked.
"Perhaps we should stop and get Lady Kagome something to eat." Miroku suggested.
"No, I'm okay. My stomach just sometimes...does that." Sango and Miroku shot her strange looks, but continued. 'Great Kagome, ruin the moment...' She tried to ignore her the hunger that gnawed at her stomach, and tried to appreciate the lush and green scenery. It reminded her of a salad...she tried to just stare down at the horse's mane...the smooth and sleek black main of her brown horse. It reminded her of the cold black noodles she ate in the summer. "Hey guys...I'm sort of hungry..."
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A/N: Okay, so it wasn't the best ending for the chapter...for some reason, I didn't even like this chapter that much...anyways, lots of 'history' and lots of the 'past' has been revealed. I hope it flows... SO the plot thickens...and stories of the past are revealed...and three of our heroes leave to the nearest village where Miroku and Sango will be married. What will occur while they're away? And will Kagome make a run for it? Tune in for the next installment.