B-M sits hunched over the computer, occasionally lifting her head to watch Cyn (aka Cygnus) as she paces back and forth, slapping the ruler in her hand. Cyn notices B-M not typing and whacks the ruler on the desk sharply. B-M jumps then quickly returns to her typing, watching with one eye as Cyn marches in front of her desk.
Cyn: (turns back to B-M) I said write! (watches in satisfaction as B-M continues typing)
Suddenly door bursts open. Lin and Marquel run in all puffed out.
Cyn: What's going on?
Marquel: (between gasping breaths) Mob… coming… fast…
Lin: Tried to… stop… but… (shakes head)
B-M: Where's Adrianna and Angel?
Marquel: (pointing outside) Trying to… hold them… off.
B-M: What now? Why are they mad this time?
Lin: Cause… you started… new story…
Marquel: And cause… it's 17 chaps… and no lemon.
B-M: (groans) Oh brother. (looks at Cyn) I can't work like this.
Cyn: (frowns and looks mad) I'll fix this. (goes outside, slamming door on the way)
Suddenly, there's a whole lot of noise that sounds like fighting and yelling. B-M takes the opportunity to access the secret room, quickly closing the door before anyone notices.
Cyn: (walks back inside, looking very pleased with herself) Done! (Looks around) Hey! Where's B-M?
Lyn: (shrugs) Dunno. She was here a moment ago.
Cyn: (Walks to computer and notices Amyfushiyugi's Peter Pan Music Video transferring to Bab's Computer.) B-M!!! I know you're hiding somewhere!!
B-M: (sitting inside hidden room. Leans back in chair and starts watching music video, singing) If only a hero can save us, I'm not gonna stand here and wait.
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Chapter 18: Spirit Of Compassion
Kouga stormed through the castle, his grip on Rain never slacking. He nodded politely to the inhabitants he passed in the hallway, not pausing as usual to chat. His anger boiled and he wanted to get to his room as quickly as possible, to find out why his sister was not where he expected her to be. Finally reaching the room, he flung her roughly inside and slammed the door behind them.
Rain stumbled then righted herself. She turned indignantly to her brother, folding her arms over her chest in a show of irritation. She matched her brother, glare for glare.
"There is no need for such rough treatment Kouga."
"Ah… of course, now you are the poor wounded lady." Kouga frowned at her. "Spare me the act Rain. This is me, Kouga... remember?"
Rain's eyebrows rose and her lips pursed. "A man should display happiness when seeing his sister for the first time in months."
"Do not try your tricks with me Rain. Why are you not with your intended?" Kouga's ire rose at her vague expression.
Rain huffed and turned from her brother in contempt. "He is beneath me."
Kouga growled as his anger escalated again, her indifference only adding to his rage. He grabbed her arm, turning her to face him, yelling his anger into her face.
"Who is not beneath you Rain?" Kouga shook with the force of his emotions.
Her eyebrows rose as a smirk came to her lips. "Your Lord Sesshoumaru is very pleasing to my taste."
Kouga frowned. "You can get that idea out of your head Rain. He is not for you."
A sudden knock stopped Kouga from further berating his sister. He sighed in irritation and walked to the door, opening it in haste.
Kagura looked at Kouga in surprise. His angry abrupt manner startled her and she looked at him curiously.
"Kouga? What is the matter?"
"Oh, Harkinia… it is nothing. Is there something I can do for you?"
Kagura sensed the demonic presence behind him and smelt the feminine scent. Her curiosity peeked and she struggled against the urge to look around him at the stranger.
"General Mikaishu requested that we all meet in the Great Hall."
Kouga nodded. "Very well. I shall be there promptly."
Kagura sent him a quick smile and nod before turning to walk down the hall. Kouga watched her leave, a tiny smile playing about his lips.
"Ah… this female appeals to you brother. How interesting."
Kouga swung round sharply, revealing his disapproval. "Do not think to distract me Rain. I am not finished here. After this meeting, you and I will talk."
He walked out the door, closing it softly behind him. Rain glared at the dark wood fiercely, curling her lip in disgust. She cursed her brother and his constant interference in her life. With growing determination, she vowed that he would not get in the way of her pursuit of Sesshoumaru.
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Kintaro looked proudly at his two children. His Sango and Kohaku were the imperial Shiiyon Warriors. The joy he felt at knowing that the legend was real waned in comparison to the fact that his offspring were members of the elite group. He smiled at his daughter fondly, draping an arm about her shoulder and squeezing her affectionately.
"You have no idea how proud I am of you. You have conducted yourself with such courage and grace this day. I will surely go to my grave a happy man."
"Oh father" Sango turned into the warmth of his embrace. "Let us have no more talk of graves. I think we have all seen enough death to last us a lifetime."
Kohaku turned to them, indicating that the last wagon was clear. Sango nodded then turned her head in the direction of a dried up tree some distance away. A frown formed on her brow as she looked at the sleeping figure against it.
Kintaro followed his daughter's gaze then looked back at her enquiringly. "What troubles you Sango?"
Sango gave her father a distracted smile as she pulled out of his embrace. "Kagome is not well. She needs to return to the castle and get some rest."
Kintaro nodded and followed her towards the slumbering girl. He knew there was more than his daughter imparted but decided not to pursue the subject. His respect for the young Shiiyonian leader grew immeasurably throughout the day. He had worried when he first realised that she was the one who led the warriors. However, after observing the manner in which she took charge and dealt with all the necessary arrangements, his worry soon turned to awe.
Sango knelt by Kagome's side and gently shook her shoulder. She felt deeply concerned for her friend, looking over her tense features. 'Even in sleep she suffers the reaction.'
"Shyra… we must leave."
Kagome eyes flew open and she sat up abruptly, rubbing her arms with both her hands. She blinked as she looked around her, slowly realising where she was. The dead scenery quickly brought her senses back and she struggled to her feet, her progress unsteady. Sango and Kintaro moved to stand on either side of her, helping her up. She smiled at them gratefully.
"Thank you. I fear that my legs have fallen asleep."
"We are ready to leave!"
Kohaku's voice caught their attention. They all turned and indicated their readiness, walking slowly toward the portal. As they neared, Kagome stopped and looked around. Her eyes moved sadly over the dead terrain. She closed them as her senses swept out, testing the life around her.
"It is happening already, is it not?"
Kagome looked at Sango's concerned face and nodded wearily.
"What is this you speak of?" Kintaro's spine crawled with apprehension as he took in the girls' grave features.
Kagome's solemn face matched her voice. "The land of the North is dying. In several more days, there will be no living thing on its surface."
Kintaro's face expressed his shock. "Are you certain of this?"
"Sadly, yes. I can feel its demise even now." Kagome's face suddenly turned serious. "I want you all to go back to the West. I will be there shortly."
"Kagome, I think that you need to rest." Sango stepped beside her.
"Sango, I promise you this won't take long. I need to bless the earth. You go ahead. I should follow you within minutes."
"Very well but will you promise me something?"
Kagome raised her brow enquiringly.
"When you return, will you please get some rest?"
Kagome laughed humourlessly. "I would love to Sango. You have no idea how much I would love to."
Kagome watched as Sango, Kintaro and Kohaku walked quietly through the portal before sighing and turning her attention back to the land. Sadness overcame her at the sight of what was once, a beautiful green forest. She sank to the ground and closed her eyes, lifting her hands upwards as she chanted the ancient words that sent the winds swirling over the dried remains.
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A strong wind swept suddenly through the courtyard, scattering leaves in all directions to settle around the many injured that lay on the cobbled grounds. Sesshoumaru saw nothing but the inky void that grew a short distance from him. His heartbeat raced and his chest tightened with inexplicable longing, warring with the anger that stirred inside him. 'What has she done to me?' His body felt tortured with an ache that never left him and his mind held nothing but thoughts of her. The rapid beat of his heart increased to a frantic rhythm as he saw the shift in the portal. A flash of silver blue caused the breath to catch in his throat.
Sesshoumaru almost jumped as the space before him suddenly filled with Shiiyonians. His focus on the portal was so intense that it left no room for awareness. He frowned, wondering how much trouble the bond would cause him. His eyes darted to the figure that stepped from the blackness, realising by the size that it was not Kagome. Moving to the next figure, he experienced a surge of disappointment at seeing the lady Sango instead of another. He watched as the portal closed after a tall man stepped out behind the two warriors. He stood staring at the group huddled in discussion, feeling completely baffled by the lack of the Shiiyonian leader. For some reason, the effects of the bond diminished slightly as the portal disappeared. 'What does this mean? Where is she?'
Rin watched the King of Ierten with a feeling of sympathy. His pain reached out to her, crying for relief. She observed his puzzled expression and the hint of anxiety in his eyes. Her inner being yearned to heal his tormented emotions but she knew that now was not the time. There was still much to do, especially from Earth's new king. She turned back to the group, once again following the conversation.
Inuyasha's eyes focused on his brother while he listened as Miroku relayed the new information. He was not sure which caused him greater worry at this stage, the impending threat to their armies or his brother's reaction to the bond. His humour aside, he had to admit that Sesshoumaru looked terrible. He waited patiently for the talk to end before moving to his brother's side. As he approached him, Inuyasha was surprised at receiving no reaction at all and rather more so when his brother failed to notice his presence entirely. He stood with a dazed look on his face, his eyes holding a mixture of disappointment and puzzlement. Inuyasha's heart swelled with pity for him, having never seen his brother appear so lost.
"Sesshoumaru"
Inuyasha stepped closer to his brother and touched his arm. Sesshoumaru's head came round; his eyes holding a distant look of query.
"Inuyasha?"
"You should go back to bed Sesshoumaru."
Sesshoumaru struggled with the fog that clouded his brain. "Where… where is she?"
"She stayed in Kuruvi to…"
"Who is with her?" Sesshoumaru's eyes desperately scanned the group, noting that all the Shiiyonians stood before him. "Is she with our soldiers?"
"No, but…"
"What do you mean no?!"
Silence fell over the courtyard at the sound of the Lord's raised voice. Everybody stared in surprise, wondering at his uncharacteristic outburst. Sesshoumaru wondered about it too but could not stop his anger bursting forth.
"Are you trying to tell me that she is within the Northern Lands alone?" The sudden silence and looks of guilt that passed between the other warriors fuelled his anger further.
"What are you all thinking?" He turned to Inuyasha, commanding "Summon a portal to Kuruvi."
Inuyasha opened his mouth to reassure his brother, when a sudden gust of wind caught the attention of everybody present. He watched his brother's face take on a slightly sick pallor, noticing the sheen of sweat that beaded on his forehead.
Sesshoumaru gasped as the sensations intensified to fever pitch. He felt as if his entire body was aflame. As the silver-blue shimmer moved slowly closer, his breathing became more restricted. It stopped completely when Kagome finally stepped into sight.
Kagome wanted to run. The heat that swallowed her was incredible. 'Why… why is it like this?' Her eyes locked with his and the swirling vortex sucked her into its centre. 'This can't be right.'
The Shiiyonian warriors looked on with mixed reactions as their leader and the Lord of the West stared at one another wordlessly. The tension between the pair was blatantly obvious and baffled them, with the exception of Rin, Sango, and Inuyasha. The same thought ran through their minds. 'Why is this bond so intense?'
Sesshoumaru was incapable of movement. Her gaze caught him and swept him into a multitude of reactions. His heart beat so hard it vibrated right through his body. He struggled with the urge to sweep her into his arms and cover her mouth with his. 'Even here, in front of all these people.' He looked down when he suddenly felt a hand slip into his and found a pair of warm brown eyes smiling up at him.
"I will go with you, to help you wield Tensaiga. You are still healing and will not have the strength to raise all who are dead on your own."
Sesshoumaru's eyes opened wide with amazement at the warm sensation that travelled up his arm and into his body, instantly soothing his raw nerves. His heartbeat slowed and his chest finally released the pent up tension.
"I think that is a wonderful idea Rin."
With a smile of relief, Sango turned to the others in an attempt to waylay the questions she knew were forthcoming. 'First, I must get Kagome away from here.' She knew her friend was not in any state to deal with anything. She needed to rest. Turning to Kagome, she spoke in a tone of authority.
"Kagome, go to bed. If you stay on your feet any longer, you will surely fall."
Sesshoumaru looked at Kagome in surprise, for the first time noticing her strained and tired appearance. 'So… she suffers the same as I.' He was rather astonished when he felt sympathy for her, as well as the need to comfort. 'Comfort her?' his mind reeled at its own thoughts. 'What am I thinking? Why would I want to comfort her?' He watched her beautiful and haunted features, an ache beginning once more in his chest. The little hand tightened round his and soothing warmth replaced the rising sensation.
Kagome nodded dully as the sensations began to seep from her body. She raised her tired eyes and sent thanks to Rin. Carefully avoiding the eyes of Lord Sesshoumaru, she turned and made her way towards the castle.
Rin tugged at Sesshoumaru's hand and they started towards the Shiiyon Temple, leaving a curious and puzzled group in their wake. All stood quietly a moment, each lost to their contemplations before Kintaro broke the silence.
"I will return to your mother Sango. There are still many injured and I am most certain that my help is needed."
Sango hugged her father and watched him leave with smile of relief. Her family may be homeless but they still had one another. She often wondered how Kagome felt, removed from everything familiar and dear then thrown into a strange new world with an enormous responsibility falling on her shoulders. Especially now that she had this bond to cope with. Behind her, Miroku's voice took command, moving them towards the castle. A rather subdued group of warriors entered General Mikaishu's office a few minutes later.
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The next two hours passed in a hive of activity as humans and youkai rushed about the castle in an attempt to accommodate the new guests. Every healer within reach came to tend the injured, adding to the numbers that filled the large halls and courtyards.
In General Mikaishu's office, the discussion flowed rather heatedly for several hours. The problem of the invading youkai was high on the agenda, creating a debate of whether to send more soldiers or not. Many worried, wondering if Lord Naraku's intention was to leave the west defenceless. They agreed that his chances of invasion increased with each soldier sent out of their lands. The discussion continued on to the topic of the homeless and the new housing. It was almost dark when the room finally opened and everyone exited.
Meanwhile, Sesshoumaru worked at a constant pace, reviving the dead that the soldiers lined before him in a constant procession. He felt a depth of gratitude to the surprisingly strong and capable, though rather tiny Shiiyonian. He marvelled, more than once at her incredible abilities. He sensed that her powers were far greater than he had so far witnessed and he wondered at her other skills. When the last body drew its first breath, he placed the sword into its sheath and moved towards the temple, surprised to find the small hand still holding his own. Strangely, he felt content at the contact and made no protest, instead he kept his pace to the tower. Once the sword slid into the stone, he sighed with relief.
"You must be very tired now."
Sesshoumaru turned to the young girl with a ghost of a smile on his lips. "A little."
He looked at her curiously, wondering if she knew anything about the bond between him and Kagome.
"What would you like to know about it?"
He blinked in surprise as he stared at her, wondering if he heard correctly. When she giggled and assured him that he did, his surprise turned to astonishment. 'How can this be? How does she know my thoughts?'
Rin sighed and moved directly in front of him, craning her neck in an attempt to meet his eyes. "It is part of my power. I can sense emotions in people and read their thoughts."
A frown came to him at the thought of someone in his mind and another giggle escaped her. "I am not permitted to simply read everyone's mind at will. My power is solely for the aid of others, triggered by their need for help. For example, should I require information during a dangerous situation then my power automatically starts working, or to save another's life or, as in this case, to heal emotional pain. Yours cries out and my powers respond."
At a loss for words, Sesshoumaru continued to stare at her. This was his chance to find out all he needed to know but he could not push the words from his mouth.
"You are wondering what is happening to your body, are you not? I know that your brother has explained it to you but you still cannot quite fathom its meaning."
Again, Sesshoumaru could only blink in surprise, though this time he managed a nod. The young girl nodded back at him, deep in thought. After a few moments, she continued.
"In order to save your life, Kagome transferred her own life force into your body. With her life force, comes… a part of her, her spirit or essence, you might say. When her energy entered your body, so did her spirit. That is why you are experiencing her thoughts and emotions, as she is yours. You now share a link that connects you spiritually. However, the bond between you is much stronger than usual and it developed a lot faster than any of us have previously seen."
Finally, Sesshoumaru found his voice. "Why? Why is this bond so strong?"
Rin hesitated before answering, wondering if he was ready to face the truth. However, she felt she had little choice. She knew he would not give up until he had the truth from her. Taking a deep breath, she chose her words carefully, mindful of the volatile emotions that lay beneath his exterior.
"The closer a healer is to a person, or the more intense their feelings, the stronger the bond between them." After receiving nothing more than a blank stare, she decided to use a more direct approach. "The bond is more intense because of the feelings between you."
His eyes blinked rapidly as he struggled to contain his surprise. 'She knows of that too?' He shook his head slightly in bewilderment, searching for words to fill the awkward silence. After a short debate with himself, he decided to acknowledge her statement. He gave a brief nod for her to continue.
Rin sighed with relief. This was hard enough without him losing his temper. She was glad he decided on sensibility instead of stubbornness.
"Your feelings for each other are intensified by the bond, or some would say that the bond is intensified by your feelings. Whichever way you look at it, the result is the same. There is also a reason that it overwhelms you both at times." She paused as she took in his keen expression. "It is because you both fight it."
Sesshoumaru thought this over carefully. 'So… we make it worse by fighting it.' However, the thought of giving in to the raging emotions was too daunting.
"How long will this last?" He looked hopefully at the tiny Shiiyonian.
Rin looked back at him apologetically before replying. "I am sorry. I wish I could answer that question but the truth is… I have no idea. As I said, this bond has developed a lot faster and with more intensity than we have ever before witnessed. I cannot tell precisely. Normally, it dissipates within a week but this time…"
Heaviness weighed on him at her words. One week was long enough. The thought that it might carry on past that was unbearable. A sudden ridiculous picture came into his head, of him dragging Rin around the castle as he tended his duties. Her burst of laughter caught him by surprise until he remembered her ability. He looked at her a moment then suddenly, a smile appeared on his face.
"Let us hope it does not come to that."
His face took on a serious expression once more as a thought came to mind. "Would it help if we were apart?"
"No"
The quiet word brought a sigh of resignation from his lips. In truth, he was not sure how he felt about any of this. To wake up with that reaction had set his mind into a whirl of activity, which left no room for rational thought. His first reaction was anger at Kagome for causing this but now… now that he knew what she went through to save him, he could not find his previous anger. In its place, was a need to go to her and… what?
"It is time for me to return to the castle and prepare for supper."
Sesshoumaru nodded. "Of course."
She gave him a quick curtsy before turning to leave. At the sound of his voice, she turned and faced him.
"Thank you Lady Rin."
A warm smile touched her lips and she curtsied deeply. "I am here to serve you your lordship."
Sesshoumaru put his hand over his heart and bowed to her, bestowing her the greatest honour a king can give. Rin blushed at the show of respect, feeling happier than she had for a long time. She smiled at him again before turning and skipping down the stairs.
Sesshoumaru stood in the same spot for a quite a while, lost to his thoughts. He had no idea what the next few weeks held and the thought rather frightened him. He cursed angrily, detesting himself for the weakness. 'Fear is for cowards!' In disgust, he turned and exited the tower room.
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The dining hall was alive with boisterous laughter, despite the many obstacles the West now faced. The atmosphere gave no indication to their serious situation. All those present traded jokes and insults, laughing merrily as they ate their lavish meals. Tonight was for celebration. Lord Sesshoumaru was once again, on his feet and a heartfelt relief spread through the castle at the wonderful news.
The Shiiyonians occupied a long table, mixing with the soldiers and castle folk. Kohaku sat deep in conversation with Tiyaku, who laughed uproariously at the boy's childhood tales whilst relaying a tale or two of his own. Himari sat opposite, showing a great deal of affection for the blushing Lady Sango. Kikyou and Kagura teased her relentlessly, aided dreadfully by the general who provided much material for their fun. He winked at them over the top of Sango's head, staring down at her innocently when she suddenly turned to look at him. Beside them, Inuyasha sat in a heated debate with Kouga over the state of the Northern Courts. Miroku sighed heavily between them, throwing in random comments that sent the Western Soldiers into fits of laughter. His drawl manner emphasized the intense nature of the two on either side of him. Lady Rin ate her meal with a group of western ladies, discussing all manner of topics from politics to which soldier they thought the most handsome. Rin could not contain her laughter when more than one lady named Miroku. This was one piece of information she looked forward to sharing with the group.
Sesshoumaru paused in the doorway, looking about. He took in the lively activity, finally finding the table he sought. The Shiiyonians sat amongst his soldiers as though they were born to this land. He noticed the lack of one certain warrior, ignoring the niggling response that felt rather like disappointment. He made his way to the table at the front of the large hall. His place was with the officials and dignitaries. He greeted General Mikaishu and his wife, Leani before nodding formerly to each member seated.
"I thought you might have decided to forgo the evening."
Sesshoumaru had considered this but decided against it. He needed to keep himself occupied and his mind off Kagome. Even with Rin's help, he could not achieve this. He turned to Mikaishu and responded.
"Now that I am well again, there is no reason why I cannot continue as normal."
"Are you certain that you are well Sesshoumaru?" Lady Leani looked at Sesshoumaru with motherly concern. "It is so soon after your recovery, I am worried that you are not allowing your body the time to rest."
"I assure you my lady, I am fine."
Leani was not convinced. She looked upon Sesshoumaru as a son and worried about him when he pushed himself, much as he was doing now. Inu or not, he still needed to rest after his brush with death. She looked at her mate, who shrugged helplessly in return. Sighing she picked up her fork and proceeded to eat.
Sesshoumaru was relieved that she let the matter rest. He had no desire to debate his welfare with Lady Leani. He held her in esteem and had no wish to offend her as he surely would, if she decided to persist. He toyed with his food as his eyes found their way back to the table at the rear. He stopped suddenly, a scowl marring his brow when he spotted Himari. His eyes narrowed as his friend draped an arm around Lady Sango. 'What in the…' The thought stopped there, when Himari leaned close to the young woman and whispered intimately in her ear. Anger suddenly swelled inside him. 'What is he playing at? Has he no care of Kagome's feelings?' He could not believe his friend's behaviour and did not stop to question his anger, or the reason behind it. All he knew is that he was incredibly angry. Never, had he seen Himari display such heartlessness.
'Damn him' Sesshoumaru struggled with the urge to go and strike his friend. He breathed deeply, attempting to settle the heat rising within his chest.
"Sesshoumaru… Are you not well my dear?" Lady Leani stood beside him with a hand to his brow.
Sesshoumaru swallowed the irritation as he ignored the thoughts of slapping her hand away. He suddenly had the need to leave the hall, which for some reason now felt stifling.
"Maybe a rest is a good idea."
Leani's relief was palpable, now that he finally saw sense. "Yes, I think it is."
Sesshoumaru stood and excused himself. Turning to leave, he carefully avoided looking towards Himari. The mere thought of his behaviour sent him wild. He had no desire to witness it again. He sighed as he stepped into the hallway, wondering why he felt angry with his friend so often lately. 'It has been this way since she arrived.' Brushing the thought aside, he walked with determination towards his office. The only way to keep his mind from the nagging sensations was to occupy his time and there were plenty of council matters to help while away several long hours. Upon entering his office, he shut the door and leaned against it, suddenly overwhelmed by strong emotions.
'Curse the damn fates. Why must she be the one who is essential our cause?' His head leaned back against the dark wood. He closed his eyes, opening them instantly when saw her beautiful smiling face. He took a deep breath, attempting to soothe the aching sensation in his chest. 'I cannot abide this much longer. There must be some way to end it.'
He finally managed to contain his emotions somewhat before pushing away from the door and moving to the large seat behind his desk. For once, he was grateful for the huge stack of documents on his desk. It was exactly what he needed to keep his mind appropriately occupied.
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Kagome rolled over in the bed and sighed. Impatience raced through her body in waves, ending in a hiss of breath as she finally sat up and pushed the covers from her exhausted form. She swung her legs off the side and sat on the edge, incapable of further movement. As much exhaustion as she felt, she still could not find the solace and comfort of sleep. Her wretched situation came back to haunt her repeatedly. Unbidden, came the images of a cold handsome face. One she would rather never see again. 'Are you so sure of that?' came the tiny voice in the back of her mind. She shook her head in an attempt to remove the unwanted image. She turned suddenly at the presence outside her door, sighing in relief when the familiarity of it hit her. She mentally called for their entry and smiled at the small figure that appeared in the doorway.
"How do you fare Kagome?" Rin's gaze swept over the tired face of her leader.
Kagome's mouth twitched in the semblance of a smile, though it appeared more as a wince. "I must say that I have seen better days Oluwara."
Rin's heart swelled with pity. More than anyone else, she understood exactly what Kagome and the King were going through. The more she thought about the whole situation, the more convinced she was that her intercession was necessary. Her resolve firmed as she watched the Shiiyon leader suddenly struggling with her breathing. Her eyes glazed over and a fine sheen of sweat covered her forehead. Rin's eyes closed as she sent her spirit out to the two who needed comforting, merging unobtrusively into their souls, and taking in some of the overwhelming emotions that plagued them. She concentrated her energy, pushing forth the soothing wave of calm that would bring relief to their tortured nerves. She watched Kagome's body slump as the inner turmoil slowly faded.
"Thank you Rin."
Rin smiled and moved towards the bed, pausing in front of Kagome. "I have asked Dehndir to bring some food for you. I know you are not hungry but you need your strength to get through this Shyra."
"Yes, you are right."
The last thing Kagome felt like doing was eating; however, the wisdom of the girl's words was not lost on her. She of all people knew the importance of sustenance when it came to recovering from a healing, especially with such an intense bond as the result. A knock on the door startled her. She had not felt the approaching presence and that bothered her. This bond was already interfering with her senses. She turned her head to see Rin ushering a tray laden Dehndir into her room. The little toad approached the large bed and carefully deposited the tray on a small table beside her, before bowing respectfully and leaving. She gave him a wan smile and turned to the food, suffering a huge lack of enthusiasm at the prospect of shoving the unwanted morsels into her protesting body.
Rin bowed courteously at the little retainer as he left the room then turned her attention back to Kagome. She almost laughed at the expression on her leader's face as she tried to chew the small portion of food she had scooped into her mouth. However, when Kagome's face twisted in a parody of disgust, Rin could no longer contain her mirth and burst into laughter. Kagome's wry grin caused her to laugh louder, until the other girl finally joined her. They looked at each other through giggles and cries of hilarity. She was pleased to see that the laughter had a positive effect on Kagome, who now picked up her fork and began to work her way through the food with more enthusiasm than before. Rin moved to the bed and crawled on. She stretched herself out and rested while Kagome finished eating.
Kagome found their silence comforting and felt greatly relieved at the young girl's presence. Up to now, all she wanted to do was lock herself away from everyone. With Rin, she felt calm and at peace. Of course, she knew that Rin's abilities had much to do with this and was grateful for them. The girl's soothing aura had a wonderful effect on her strained nerves. She actually managed to finish the entire meal, which surprised her. When she first looked at the plate of food, she had felt sickened at idea of eating but now she was glad she did. It was the first decent meal that she had in days. She pushed the plate away and slid backwards until she was beside Rin. She lay on the pillow and turned to face her.
They lay in silence for many long minutes, just looking at each other in understanding. Rin's slow and gentle smile washed over Kagome and brought a deeper calm to her now relaxed body. She felt better than she had since she first arrived here and could not find the words to express her gratitude to the young spirit.
"You have no need for words Kagome, I already know." Kagome's smile was her answer. "I will stay here with you tonight. Try to sleep. You have not slept properly in days."
"You're right Rin." A tiny smile pulled the corners of Kagome's mouth, her eyes drifting heavily downwards as she spoke through a yawn. "I really could use some…"
Rin smiled as the Shiiyonian leader finally lost her battle, giving in to the world of dreams.
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AN: Hey guys, no cliffie. Woohoo!! But… you do get another chapter, just to make up for the long wait. And I promise that I'll give you a cliffie in that one, okay? hehe.
Seriously though, I do apologise profusely for the delays. Unfortunately, those same situations I mentioned before are still taking up lots of my time. Plus the pre-Christmas rush. (sighs) I am so looking forward til it all finishes. I have so many ideas for all my stories and I'm dying to get a move on with them. Well… until then, I'll do my best to give you chapters but I can't make any promises. Okay, with that said, on to the next chapter. Hope you enjoy.