AN: well, I decided to take a break with the action in this chapter. For all your Sesshoumaru and Kagome fans, enjoy this lovely little bit I wrote for them, or at least, I wrote, and there happened to be them in it. Alone. He he he. I am sooo evil. Anyways, hmmm… here you go!
Shadows Against a Shoji Screen
PART II
Chapter 12
The
transparent façade
Gazing quietly out at the surrounding countryside she found that at all times of day the never ending mountain ranges, arising like bubbles from a boiling pot, could be beautiful beyond all belief. The pine and cedar trees blended perfectly with the brushy oak and birch. There was something very untamed and dramatic about this vista. Always she had been in the valleys gazing up at this grandeur wondering what life was like from the vista. Now, in the strangest of circumstances she found herself contentedly gazing down at the brilliantly green valleys. Like a large go-board, the fertile land had been cut and divided into perfect geometrical shapes. Gentile rain clouds now washed over the hills, at times covering the very tips of the gently rolling mounds. Like a Chinese scroll, the mountains faded into the horizon, their colors of a gentle blue contrasting perfectly with the forest green of the foreground and the porcelain blue of countless distant vistas. Despite the fact that it was nearly the forth month of the year there was still a slight bite to the air that required light garments.
It had been two weeks since Kagome had been whisked away to this mountain fortress in what she had learned was the famed beauty of the western lands. Her life had quickly settled into a steady rhythm, despite her best wishes for it to prove unpredicted in everyway.
That night two weeks ago…that night she had feared for her life and wore the mask of strength as best she could. Yet the fact remained that when the shoji screens slowly opened a great shiver had run down her spine like ice-cold water. Her mouth had parted only slightly, yet her eyes grew wide in incredulity. The famed youkai of the western lands seemed a mirror image of her husband…
The two faced one another, one the dark, expressionless and although utterly surprised by the presence of Inuyasha's wench, he gaze no indication of his undoing. The other, the glowing light, sat paralyzed, her hands resting quietly in her lap, her large cerulean eyes wide in surprise and slight horror.
Sesshoumaru spoke coolly, and questioned, "What is it, wench?"
That, like a new piece of fuel to the fire, brought her back to life, and she quickly turned away a deep flush of anger and embarrassment rising to her cheeks. After some moments, she answered resolutely, "I wish for you to release me, and I demand an escort back to my husband's fortress."
Amused, and rather impressed by the girls' brazen and undaunted nature, Sesshoumaru entered the room and slowly walked to the opposite end to enjoy the view of the moonlit garden.
"That is not in my hands."
Snapping irritably, Kagome had demanded, "What do you mean, it's not in your hands? Am not I in your domain? Don't you have control?"
Turning to face her, Sesshoumaru allowed their eyes to meet, and he considered them absorbedly as he replied resolutely, "My authority has nothing to do with these circumstances. It was not I, or my men, who kidnapped you."
Taken aback, Kagome whispered, "What? Then why am I here?"
Heaving an irritated sigh, Sesshoumaru walked across the length of the room, and snarled, "Listen to me, wench, you are to stay under my roof. However, other than that, I have nothing to do with you. Do you comprehend that?"
Surprising herself, Kagome snapped in turn, standing abruptly and walking towards his frame, nearly yelling in his face, "No, I don't! Moreover, why should I? If you want nothing to do with me, then send me on my way, and I may go, and leave you and this house in peace!"
Making no reply, but bestowing upon her an angry scowl, Sesshoumaru turned on his heel and quickly walked out of the room, sliding the screens sharply as he exited.
Saying not a word, Kagome slowly sat down and buried her face in her palms.
Her shoes crunched along the gravel of the deserted gardens and hummed a familiar tune. Her days now seemed to mirror her life when she was living under Inuyasha's roof. The man, the key to her freedom, would depart for the day and leave her, like a caged bird, in the compounds of the house. It was not as though Kagome did not enjoy exploring his lands, it was just it was a great burden on her heart to know that Sango and soon Miroku would know of her disappearance—and then her husband, and the war was more inevitable then ever.
Leaning against a great rustic pillar, Kagome sighed silently to herself. Even if she now knew of the situation between Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha, (as well as the history behind this war), there was still an unsettled matter that hung heavy in the air. This mysterious issue of Naraku…
For the past two weeks, Kagome had been trying to fit the pieces together, and although there were many gaps and holes, she had managed a rough copy. Slowly and meticulously, she ran off the facts like a list through her head.
To begin with, Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha obviously had a great misunderstanding some twenty years before—for although she did not know the lord of the eastern lands well, Kagome knew that this man abided by strict morals and would never sink so low as to kill his despised brothers lover. To sort out that first problem would solve many issues—and possibly bring a temporary peace. Secondly, there was the issue of the inherited swords. Although Kagome did not know the details, she was aware that for some reason Sesshoumaru was dissatisfied with his own possession and desired his brothers instead. Finally, and most disturbingly, there was this issue of Naraku. It was supposed that this being had been around much longer than it was initially believed—so obviously the being had been waiting for something, or something to mature and come of age. What or who it was…Kagome had not an inkling…
Side stepping a butterfly larva on the ground beneath her, Kagome resolved that she would go in search of Sesshoumaru, and if the lord could not be found, well, perhaps Kagome might better survey the lands in hopes of an escape.
Admitting for the first time that these were indeed her long-range plans, Kagome faced them like a rock against an angry sea. She could only weather the blows, but in the end, she would escape from this place—be it dead, or alive. Life was something Kagome was learning quickly—life was something more fragile then petals in the wind. She would not live forever—and would her fate and future make such an impact on the world? Kagome was a realist in every possible way, and admitting that she did not wish death, she also acknowledged the death of a noble woman (and so many noble woman of the house of Higurashi had come before her) would in the end not be so time altering as it appeared.
Kagome was a female, the lesser species—and she had fully come to acknowledge this truth, however painful the medication had been.
Making her way towards the rear of the house, skirting around the large and formal gardens that were meticulously kept beautiful year round, Kagome found a small well beaten path, meandering in and out of the great large pine and cedar trees. Glancing cautiously over her shoulder, her eyes searching for any detection of movement—she speedily moved into the protective barrier of brush, and made her way along the worn and still moist earth.
Finding that not much vegetation grew beneath the trees, and henceforth causing her form to be plainly seen through the great gaps of the forest, she quickened her step finding the terrain to be leading uphill. For a period of about half an hour, all she heard was the whistling of leaves between the pine needles and the far off chirping of birds.
A thin layer of sweat formed on her face, and she found the large and bulky kimono to be annoying as she continued her journey on the incline.
As she continued to walk, a new sound became apparent, and as she walked it became louder in volume. At first, the sound was like that of the distant ocean yet slowly each murmur grew more distinct, and Kagome realized, feeling quite foolish afterwards, that the sound was that of a nearby brook hidden in the underbrush.
The cool, clear and icy mountain waters were appealing to her overheated body, yet she continued on to some unseen and unknown goal.
The trees began to thin and wild grasses began to appear on either sides of the small pathway. The light grew brighter as well, and glancing up she saw that it must be perhaps three in the afternoon.
Coughing slightly, Kagome continued her struggle; her head lowered gazing at her feet intently.
The next instant she looked up, and was blinded by the strong sun spread over body and onto the waist tall grasses that bordered her on either side. Turning about in confusion and realization that she had strayed upon a mountainous meadow (surrounded on all sides by the thick protection of pine trees) she smiled softly to herself. The brook was still present, although hardly seen by the amount and length of the grass that surrounded her. Deciding that this was the end of today's journey, she set off into the forest of grass to find the stream that had been evading her parched throat for some time. Kneeling gratefully by its self, Kagome sincerely considered shedding the tiresome kimono and bathing in the icy waters of the stream. The thought was tempting, yet even in this unpopulated place she felt as though someone, somewhere was watching her move.
Shivering at the dark thoughts, despite the brilliancy of the light, Kagome took a long cool drink and sat by the side of the stream for sometime, her eyes closed, utterly relaxed.
When she opened her eyes, again the light had faded somewhat, or at least changed its tone to that of the golden afternoon. Sitting up, she cautiously looked about, before climbing to her feat and wading through the tall grasses and towards the small worn path and down into the refuge of the dark and earthy forest, she sped downhill towards the fortress of Sesshoumaru. Casting one glance over her shoulder at the fading meadow, Kagome decided that this meadow was the key to her escape, and the next day she would find a way off the blasted mountain.
Smiling
to herself, she hardly noticed the blurred form a few hundred meters behind
her.
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The room was dark and cool in the evening light. Even with the oil lamps burning, Kagome still felt dark and alone in the dining room. The walls, despite their light colors, seemed to box her in, and it was only when she looked towards the veranda (now open to the garden) that this feeling escaped her.
She knew what was happening.
She was the bird transferred to a new cage. Not necessarily a better cage, just different. Kagome knew what she must do. She had to escape, before she became used to her surroundings, before she gave in without a struggle.
Allowing her perfect posture to waver, she leaned against the dark oak table, and allowed her eyes to study the view of the garden.
Although it was not similar to her husbands, she did admit there were the same elements. The water, the rock, the overhanging trees and the mosses—all were similar in form, in function. Yet, Kagome figured, it was probably that most gardens looked like this.
As the old Japanese saying went, 'The nail that stands up, get smashed down'. Perhaps these two brothers were not as daring as they both imagined. Perhaps they did not have such courage.
The gentle murmur of water stopped as the bamboo fell back on itself after releasing its pent of liquid. Murmur. Plop. Murmur. Plop.
Shaking her head slightly, she moved her attention away from the garden and back within the room. Yet, the room only oppressed her even more. And so, burying her head in her hands, she closed her eyes and thought intently.
The terrain of this mountain top abode was cumbersome indeed. Situated about a half of the way towards the top, if she chose to climb over the mountain she would not make it far at all. She could only go down. Yet, she could not go west, for that was where the main road lay. Kagome was already aware she was an easy target. This only left eastward and down into the valley.
The path she had taken earlier on in the day had extended farther; she knew that. Yet, the path died further on at next hill that would be ill indeed.
Kagome, resolving silently to herself that she would take the path again the following day, and determine where exactly her future lay.
The doors behind her slid open, and stiffening heard the rustle of fabric as the lord of the hosue stepped into the dining room. A scent followed him as he walked slowly towards his spot at the head of the table. It was an earthy scent, yet dark and sweet at the same time. The scent of money, and the scent of nature as well…
Closing her eyes, Kagome tried to distinguish and classify each odor. Yet, it was impossible.
Opening her dark eyes, she gazed at him, rather astonished that he had ventured to eat with her after that first debate when she had arrived two weeks ago. Since that time, she had discovered that he took his meals late in the evening so as there would be no possibility for their paths to cross.
Yet why was he taking great pains to avoid her? Surely, nothing she could say or do would change his resolve. There was no way to hurt him.
Opening her mouth to begin some form of intercourse, she closed it suddenly as the doors behind her once again opened at the servants entered, their arms full of trays of deliciously smelling food.
So ill timed was their arrival, that it made Kagome ill at ease—as though these people were trying to halt conversation in any way possible. As though her very influence would cause great confusion and agony.
Once they had left, leaving their trademark of delicious food in assorted spices and garnishees, Kagome took the bowl of miso soup, and about to place it in front of her, she paused and cast a side-glance towards the area in front of Sesshoumaru. What would he say, she wondered, if she placed the bowl down before of him? Would he believe that he had already mastered her? Would he be touched by her kindness? Or…did he actually expect her to serve him?
"Are you going to put the miso down or not?" His voice questioned, indifferent, though she detected a faint trace of amusement.
Flushing, she angrily placed it down in front of him before bitterly grabbing her own. From now on, Kagome vowed, the demon lord could serve himself.
Picking up her chopsticks (well, at least she presumed it was hers because they always gave her the lacquered ones decorated in red, white, and pink.
Gazing at their pattern, she smirked self consciously, as she found that these chopsticks somehow meant more than they initially appeared to. Inuyasha, her husband, her lord was the deep scarlet; his cool and refined brother was the pearly white. And now, she was passed between the two of them, picking up their colors, and creating her own.
Frowning, she ate her miso soup, and mentally told herself that she needed to leave before she started reading fortunes from tealeaves.
"Is there something amusing about the chopsticks? Do they offend you in some way?" Sesshoumaru questioned, not looking up as he chewed on a piece of tofu in a thoughtful manner.
Flushing yet again, Kagome gave a disgusted _expression when she realized that this lord had been watching her.
"It's none of your business, Sesshoumaru-sama," Kagome retorted, slurping her soup down and slamming it on the table.
"Oh? Is that so?" he questioned, placing his chopsticks down onto of his bowl, and giving his complete attention to the girl who was now seated ahead of him.
Sesshoumaru wanted to see her fall. He wanted to see her resort to the typical wining of the female sex, he wanted to see her arrange flowers, and fret about the fashions. He wanted to see her worry about her hair, her makeup; he wanted her not to be so beautiful, he wanted to see her cry. Then, and only then, when those tears fell down her pretty face, would be completely satisfied. No woman could be so strong…none.
"Yes. It is." Kagome fumed, dishing out a piece of broiled unagi for herself, and applying a bit of smoky sauce onto its grilled edges. She had not realized how hungry she was. "If I am forced to stay here then I feel I have the right to look at your utensils in whatever fashion I please."
Allowing his lips to form a soft, if not pitying smile, he whispered, "You are certainly spirited. What I have heard about you is no lie."
Sipping some tea, and somewhat calmer now, Kagome replied, "I am sure. The fact that I am married to your brother—"
"Half brother," Sesshoumaru corrected sternly.
"The fact that I am married to your half brother allows my life to be more free compared to most noble-women. He does not care for me, and allows me greater freedom than any married woman can expect." She stated simply, avoiding his gaze somewhat. It seemed suddenly cold, and goose bumps began to appear on her covered arm. Was Sesshoumaru having this affect on her? His countenance this evening was so different from the one she had discovered previously.
Sesshoumaru finished his miso soup and served himself a cup of green tea.
"Lying does not suit you," he admitted, his face impassive, as he sipped at his cup, "You, know that you are property—all women are, and as such you are being traded and bought. It will only be until later that my idiotic half brother realizes what fertile and valuable land he possessed."
Wrenching her head down she gazed at her steamy unagi and said nothing for sometime as she continued to eat the heavenly food.
But…he was right. Women were property. Women would always be property. She should not delude herself anymore. She was female; she could do nothing, even if she struggled all her life. Such was the way of this society.
"You're right," she finally whispered, gazing at Sesshoumaru, a sad smile on her face.
Sesshoumaru would be the last to admit that he was stunned, or shocked easily. Only a few times in his life had he ever shown emotion when this emotion swept over him. Yet, in most cases he could keep a passive face, meaning nothing, like a perpetual mask. It took every muscle that he possessed not to gaze at this girl, wide eyed, questioning repeatedly.
How could she live with this burden?
A female could not hold such a naturalistic view of the world; a female could not allow herself to think that poorly of her kind. To think of their gender as more, as something beautiful—this was their survival. It was their way of life that saved them from all committing suicide—it allowed them to have a life; it gave them meaning. And now, she had blown him nearly to the ground with those two words.
"I see…" he managed, before pouring himself another cup and ending all conversation for the evening.
````````````````````
Gazing out into the mild night, Kagome closed her eyes and inhaled the deep and dark night air. It was relaxing; the scent, like a memory from her childhood. It clung to her lovingly, and slowly the stresses of the day, of the past months, left her body. For one moment she felt completely relaxed in the fortress of her enemy.
His manner, despite how cold and rude, relaxed her as well. He did not skirt about the subjects, but like the strength of his sword, cut through to the important aspect. The paramount part.
"You are property."
Closing her eyes, she smiled sadly, and whispered, "But whose am I now?"
````````````````````
The rainwashed over the grand fortress of the Lord of the Western Lands. The drains overflowed and splashed down into the gravel basins that swept down the hills, forming miniature rivers, in which boats made of leaves, and junks made of sticks floated precariously down. No animal remained in the woods, even those who emerged at night. All knew of the danger of this great transitional storm—it was time for the annual spring rain. No snow would fall, for it was too late in the year, yet the rainfall would be cold and significant. The great mountain rivers swelled like a pregnant woman's belly in her last weeks. Even the dried riverbeds sprung to life, as though touched by the gods themselves.
Leaning against the pillar, Kagome absently wondered what time it was. They said the darkest hour was before dawn, and now she would agree. Of course, if the stars had been out, she would have been able to tell immediately, but as they were covered from her site, she had no indication.
Shivering as the wind swept through her chamber, she wished for something heavier and warmer for her journey. Yet she knew the layers of the kimono she was presented with would prove cumbersome as she tried to escape from Sesshoumaru's clawed grasp.
She planned to escape, down the mountainside, and return back to the Shizuoka prefecture and then to her husband's fortress.
No one would expect her to leave tonight—to do that would be foolish, idiotic even. Yet, Kagome realized, she had to take that risk and die trying. Death was inevitable—and she hoped that if she not prove successful in this quest she would die quickly so as not to experience any pain.
Stepping out into the rain filled gardens, she snuck quietly along the stepping stone paths and towards the rear of the house. She did not know when Sesshoumaru slept, and so it was careful that at she be quiet until she was a safe distance from the fortress.
This will take longer than I expected… Kagome thought darkly, and quickening her steps, she waded out into the mud and towards the dark and frightening forest.
I must succeed.
````````````
Did she actually believe that she could escape? Was she under the impression that he, Sesshoumaru, the Lord of the Western Lands, had not expected this tactic? He was the master of war, he knew nearly every trick in the book—and the girl believed she could fool him! It was almost amusing, if not sad.
Like a bird dying slowly, he would have to put her out of her pain.
Running a hand through his long hair, he smirked silently as he eyed the warmth of the glowing coals at the fireplace. How they temped them with their ginger flecked depths. The book yearned for his touch; his mouth desired the sake at his lips—yet this girl, this girl was already controlling his actions.
Disgusting.
Pausing, Sesshoumaru thought for a moment, and an idea, like the water outside, rushed suddenly through his head.
I will let her believe she has escaped…and then, when she is most vulnerable, I will trap her…
Yes, that was the way to ensnare the girl. Feign innocence at all times. It was true of Naraku, so why not of this girl, Kagome?
Settling himself down, he sipped his sake, and continued to read the Tale of Genji. It was mediocre, at least, for a book written by humans.
Grinning, Sesshoumaru allowed his thoughts to linger on the actions in the real world, outside the book. Kagome was probably soaking wet, gaining a fever rapidly, and scratched from the wet and wild brush. Yet, she desired freedom, and he would see how much it cost to attain.
She will never dare try once more.
````````````````
Kagome let out a cry of pain as a strong branch crashed against her branch like a whip. Falling towards the heavily forested ground, Kagome found rocks that she had not known existed before. They cut into her skin, and she could feel the trickle of blood coming dangerously close to her wrist.
"I must succeed," she whispered, slowly crawling forward, her yukata nearly undone.
There was no time for niceties. By dawn, she must be off the god-forsaken mountain. By dawn, she had to be out of his grasp, however comforting it seemed right now.
Standing up slowly, she gazed about in the storm, nearly blinded by the wind and the pelting rain. Kagome head reached the meadow at last—yet somehow it had turned into a swamp by the flooded stream. Up to her shins in murky water, she lifted her skirt and trudged bitterly on in the direction she had taken earlier that afternoon.
Those events suddenly seemed so far away—as though they took place years and years ago. Now she was in a feverish hell…
As she continued her journey across the marshy meadow, and down the steep and slippery cloak, she kept her mind occupied to pass the time and injuries better. Already she knew that her yukata was ripped in several places, and her arm was bleeding in two areas, as well as her head.
Naraku is in on this whole plan…but why is it that I was kidnapped? Sesshoumaru said that he had nothing to do with it, didn't he? If he does not care about me, and is not using me as bait for Inuyasha, then who is?
She slipped and fell into the mud, covered with fallen tree limbs.
Damn!
Coughing slightly, and wiping the dirt from her mouth, she continued resolutely, following a swollen river that had appeared by her side.
Water finds the easiest way to the sea…if I follow it, I make escape yet.
Glancing about, she shivered, and realized that she was crying.
Keep your mind busy, Kagome! Sesshoumaru expects you to fail! You must prove him wrong!
However, it is not as if he is really my enemy. Only my husband's. Why should I care what he thinks of me?
You do not care about what Sesshoumaru thinks. You only care about getting out of here, and finding Sango, and Miroku, and a place to get warm.
Then why does your heart long to return to that mountaintop? Is it because you find peace there, as you had never expected?
I find peace nowhere. My life will be forever of turmoil. Even if I did feel happy, it was temporary, as is life. Now, leave me in peace, I must keep my mind busy.
So, you will not think about the Lord of the Western Lands, and his house of peace?
No, so I may realize who is plotting against my husband.
Nevertheless, you already know, Kagome…you already know…
What are you talking about?
Think about it. If it is not Sesshoumaru, who else may it be? Do not you remember the piece of wood painted black on Inuyasha's map?
Well…red must be Inuyasha, and white…Sesshoumaru…and black…
And black…?
…Black must be… Naraku.
Very good, Kagome, you win an award. Ping Pong.
Lightening sparked through the sky, and she stumbled back in surprise. Kagome felt air surround her before she fell into a riverbed slowly filling with water from higher up the mountain. The figure did not get up, or even move. She was knocked unconscious.
``````````````````````
It was one of the strongest storms Sesshoumaru had ever witnessed or felt. Even he, with his youkai powers and strength, felt weak and powerless against the brute force of nature.
Scowling as the wind caused his hair to whip in his face, he lifted his nosed and sniffed the air for her distinctive scent, like that of lilacs and clean blossoms. It was faint, and weak, as he was sure was her disposition. The girl could not have gone far.
Yet the scent was not strong enough! The wind and rain had scattered it about the countryside, and so by the way things looked, the girl had traveled in as many as five directions. Something, almost like the emotion of fear, overwhelmed him for one terrifying moment. As though this girl meant everything to him.
Do not fall so easily, Sesshoumaru, do not lust after someone else's trash.
Remembering from earlier in that sun filled afternoon that she had found his private sanctuary, the meadow, he began to the climb, slipping a few times in the wet and slimy dirt.
Damn this wench, he cursed angrily to himself. What had he been thinking? Why did he even find this game of cat and mouse amusing? Why was he going out of his way to help her—Inuyusha's bitch?
Upon reaching the open, marshy plane of the meadow, he gazed out into the turbulent and now somewhat lighter surroundings. Dawn was slowly, and painfully approaching. Protecting his eyes, he sniffed for her scent once again. Obviously, his instincts had proven right, for now the smell was stronger. Still weak, yet it has intensified somewhat.
Women and their perfume make such an easy target.
Stepping through the marsh, he eyed the dark forest down below. The path led here, and there was nothing left to do but follow. Naraku would be furious, but then, Naraku was not his master, no more so than the bastard Inuyasha.
Why the hell was he doing this?
Scowling, he set off into the wild.
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The figure, nearly chest high in water, opened her blue eyes and gazed about into the storm of utmost gray and darkness. She was cold, and wet, and strangely hot and feverish at the same time. Trying to move her hands, she found that the water had somewhat slowed the bleeding, although leaving her lightheaded. Gazing above her head, she grasped at a root and tried to force herself out of the brown water.
This cannot end here, on the middle of a mountain. Eventually, I will have to do something, and get out of here.
I am not so weak as he assumes.
Using every bit of energy she possessed, Kagome forced herself out of the swarming water, and stumbled along the ravine for a period of ten minutes looking for a spot in which she could climb out. This was a task indeed.
Her yukata was now completely undone, revealing her bare skin beneath it. Her woven shoes now washed down stream, and eventually to reach the ocean. Her hair, which had at one point been tied back, now fell over her shoulders, sopping wet by the interminable rain.
Coughing slightly, Kagome finally managed to return back onto the land, and to where she had been some many hours ago.
She had few thoughts now, expect one, which urged her to continue, to flee like the bird she was. To find her happiness over the next hill, beyond the bend in the engorged river, beyond the horizon…
`````````````````````
He found her in the first hours of dawn, stumbling down a gentle incline towards a valley. A few more minutes, and she might have escaped. He almost felt bad when he saw her ragged figure blindly stepping forward, unaware of direction—but her purpose certain, to escape him.
Everyone wished to escape from him eventually. It was his curse, set about by his father.
The affects were similar to that of drunkenness. Therefore, stepping quietly behind her, he placed his hands on her shoulder, only to find her shrug them off, and continue on his way.
Walking beside her, he angrily grabbed his hands. He had no time for this. He was angry and soaked to the bone, because of this girl and her foolishness. This girl was an idiot, however brave.
"What the hell are you doing?" He whispered in a dangerously low voice that would have sent most people over the edge and begging for their forgiveness.
"Let me go, Sesshoumaru. Just let me go." She howled like a wounded dog.
Snatching her hand bitterly away, Kagome continued to walk, a little more composed now, towards the meadow, into the forest, and to the small village. Her refuge from him.
It would not be so easy.
Gazing down at his fingers, he saw them stained deep red. Loss of blood, a fever, and exhaustion—she was surviving only on her basic instincts, and those included being uncivil towards him. Sesshoumaru did not know whether to be furious at the girl, or amused.
"You will come with me now." He began again, grabbing both hands this time, so it would be harder for her to escape.
Kagome now faced him, her eyes dark, fully aware of the disheveled and immodest exposure of her body. She was practically nude, the yukata nearly coming off her shoulder, and exposing much of her torso.
"And why should I come, Sesshoumaru-sama? Why should I go with you?" Kagome yelled angrily, wincing as his grip tightened, causing her to become even more aware of her injuries.
"You are coming, because I say so." Sesshoumaru snarled, leaning forward, his eyes admitting all the anger and rage he had experienced in the past hours.
Above, lightening shot through the sky, illuminating the marks of dirt on Kagome's face and the danger in Sesshoumaru's expression.
Glancing casually down, Sesshoumaru had to quickly avoid his gaze when he saw her bare and blemished skin due to the mountainside. Yet, the lustrous quality still remained, now glittering with raindrops.
"Why don't you just rape me, because you already think me a whore? You have no respect for me, do you Sesshoumaru-sama? In addition, here I am, weak, and fragile, so why not? Naraku plans to kill me, I am sure, and you will not disobey—so why not? Wouldn't it be a stab at Inuyasha, to claim me? Wouldn't you get revenge a second time?" Kagome whispered icily, trying to struggle free, but all in vain. She felt tears forming in her eyes, but she blinked them bitterly away. She almost wished he would take advantage of, so then she could actually hate him.
However, the truth was, she did not hate him at all.
She needed to despise him. It would make this whole affair easier.
Grabbing her about the waist, startling himself, Sesshoumaru gazed hungrily down at her for a moment. In that moment, he was able to truly see this girl for her beauty and her strength—a strength that he wished more people desired and possessed. She did not fear him, and for this, he admitted bitterly, she deserved his respect. Moreover, grudgingly, he would give it to her. Swinging her angrily over his shoulders, and stalking bitterly towards his fortress, he replied, "Naraku does not rule over me, Kagome-sama."
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Opening her eyes to the gray light of dawn, Kagome shifted her view and gazed at Sesshoumaru, the thought not yet registering in her mind. Like the rain, it fell gently onto her. It was not painful, just depressing, like the gray wetness of dawn.
She had failed.
Moving slightly, the rustle of fabric caused Sesshoumaru to open his closed eyes and stare at her, his expression deep and troubled.
"So," Kagome whispered quietly, suddenly very cold.
Sesshoumaru did not reply, but instead turned his attention to the door, which opened a few second later, revealing an aged woman, expect for the fact that a tale protruding from her kimono gave away her secret.
"Yorunonobu, Kagome-sama is now awake. You may bring the broth as planned, and an extra blanket as well." He instructed, eyeing her with a look of respect, although Kagome found it difficult to imagine Sesshoumaru respecting anyone.
"Yes, Sesshoumaru-sama," the being whispered softly as she exited the room and shut the shoji screens behind her. Her shadow remained there for a moment longer, before shuffling quietly down the halls.
"You hire…youkai?" Kagome whispered, wrapping her fingers around the edge of the heavy blanket.
"Yes, and hanyou as well." Sesshoumaru muttered, though not ashamed, but brusque in his manner.
"I…I didn't expect that…most disguise themselves so well…I thought they were human," she admitted, flushing slightly, whether from her fever or ignorance. She should had seen it sooner, but her mind had been far away. The fact remained that Kagome could not escape from this mountain, and so her psyche must remain here, and be conscious for hidden opportunities.
"I am sure you didn't. To my amazement, the youkai and hanyou that work here all wish to become human for some reason I cannot understand," His features formed an irritated and troubled expression that quickly passed as he noticed that she studied his face.
"I don't understand either. Why would anyone wish to become human?" Kagome whispered, her hands trembling to stop her from crying in front of the lord.
The gentle sound of the rain continued to hit against the gravel pathway outside, and although it was cool, it was not overly chilly as it has been hours before. It was pleasant, comforting, and slowly the silence and the rhythm called Kagome's troubled heart.
Continuing the conversation, since Sesshoumaru seemed not to budge from his location, she ventured, "About last night…about today…" she paused, hesitating on the verge of the cliff, "Thank you."
"You know what you are saying, do you not? I stopped you from escaping. You were not a mile away from the village Rin is staying. Fifteen more minutes, and you would have been beyond my grasp. You would have escaped." Sesshoumaru lectured sternly, austere in every respect, obviously astounded by her gratitude.
Avoiding his question, Kagome demanded curiously, "Who is this Rin? Your lover?"
Snorting in disdain, Sesshoumaru made an expression of reproach, and grumbled, "Nothing of the sort. She is a young girl, a few years your junior, who I have taken in and allowed to live on the compounds."
"You took pity on her." Kagome corrected mischievously, feeling her strength return, as did the sortie.
"Yes, I did. Just as I take pity on you." He replied angrily, glaring at Kagome in exasperation and displeasure. He was expecting her to stay silent, considering her weakened condition.
Yet, on the other hand, this is Kagome.
Settling back into their own thoughts, the silence continued. It was agreeable, and for the first time since being whisked away to Sesshoumarus fortress, Kagome felt…at ease around him, around the people who surrounded her. Her attempt of escape had partially shifted her view of the world, but more importantly, her view of him. Although Sesshoumaru had thwarted her plans, he had been a gentleman…something she had not expected. Kagome had trained herself to expect the worst with every being—and now, for the first time in a long time, she had been sincerely surprised.
Glancing towards the door, it was opened by the same woman, Yorunobu, who had formerly opened entered some five minutes ago. In her arms, she carried a tray filled with a steaming leek broth and a teapot with two cups situated along side. It was the subtle way of suggestion that Sesshoumaru might be staying longer than Kagome originally expected.
"Here is the broth and tea as you commanded, Sesshoumaru-sama," she whispered gently, placing it before them and gently shuffling away. Yorunobu paused, and turned to reply quickly, "Sashiage-san is bringing the blankets, Sesshoumaru-sama."
"Very good," the lord replied, nodding as he poured himself a cup of tea and brought it to his lips, "Has his cold retreated?"
"Ah, yes, Sesshoumaru-sama!" Yorunobu flushed, smiling warmly, "The herbs you prescribed worked wonderfully."
"It was a mere hypothesis. It was his resolve that deserves the praise." He responded coolly, brushing aside the compliment as though it was an annoying fly. "You may leave."
"Yes, Sesshoumaru-sama," Yorunobu responded, bowing deeply.
Turning to receive the cup that had been quietly offered to her by Sesshoumaru, she could not control the questions that flooded through her mind.
Why do you have Rin? How did she come to live here?
How did you learn botany?
Why are you so cruel and so kind at the same time?
"I…" she began uncertainly. Yet, she finally settled for, "The tea is good."
I do not fear you, you know…
Avoiding the comment, Sesshoumaru confided surprisingly, "I will be sending Rin away to Kyoto. You will never meet her, you understand. I do not want to be further tainted by the likes of man and war." Placing his cup down, he picked up the lacquer bowl and handed it towards Kagome, "You are sick, incase you have not forgotten."
"You make it hard not to."
Taking the bowl, her eyes never leaving Sesshoumaru's face, she began, after sipping the pungent leek broth; "I believe that is a good idea. But, if you send her to Kyoto…she will always be surrounded by war. You have other motives I am sure."
Smirking, Sesshoumaru noted how this girl could see even through his barriers, "Yes. You have managed to see through the façade. I will send her to Kyoto so she may learn the woman's art, and hopefully find happiness later on in life."
Smiling as she continued to sip the broth, "You mean, to allow her an opportunity to marry well. You wish her to become a noble lady."
"Is that a crime? Just because you are a jaded member of your class, Rin will be able to conform and allow her true personality to shine simultaneously." His manner had become somewhat colder, like the breeze from the north.
"I have never met her, so I know nothing of her," Kagome admitted gently, "But…although I do not hold these beliefs, people of my class, and yours, do as well."
"And those beliefs would be?"
"No matter how much a noble may admire a peasant for their strength, their ability to cope; never will they want one to eat at their table. It is two worlds we live in."
"That is a miscomprehensions brought on by this oppressive society. The rule for you is that 'the nail that stands up gets hammered down'. I dare to surmise that you have already had that tragic fate." Sesshoumaru snarled angrily.
Gazing at him, strength glittering in her undaunted eyes, she whispered, "The moon in the water, broken and broken again, still is there…by—"
"Yes, Choshu, I am well aware of the great masters of haiku." Sesshoumaru interrupted, impressed by the girls use of quotations. Perhaps there was an application to those poems.
There would be no resolution to this argument, for Kagome drank her soup and sipped her tea in silence, and Sesshoumaru had not patience. He was angry and damp; and much troubled his mind. Now that this girl, Kagome, was to live here; life suddenly became a struggle—and he almost had to remind himself to hate her; for she was his brother's, and anything related to that bastard could he ever grow fond.
As he walked the halls, the haiku hung in the air about him…
The moon in the water,
Broken and broken again,
Still is there…
Another came to mind, and he mouthed the words to himself. It was by another great master, Issa.
Spring begins again;
Upon folly,
Folly returns