The battle scene is in place, the Shiiyonians all prepared. Rain sits in her tent, miserably. Kagura walks in,
Kagura: You really should try to eat something Rain.
Rain: (glares) Why should I? (gets up and stomps her foot) I WANT MY SESSHY!
Kagura: (stares in shock then looks helplessly at B-M and shrugs)
B-M: (groans in agony and puts her head in her hands) Why can't this just be simple?
Cyn: (growling angrily) RAIN! YOU WILL NOT DO THIS AGAIN! (walks over and stands menacingly before Rain) FIRST, IT TOOK ME THREE HOURS TO FIND B-M, AND THEN IT TOOK ME ANOTHER TWO TO GET RID OF EVERYONE AND GET YOU GUYS TO START! NOW GET ON WITH IT!
Rain: (crosses arms and huffs) I WANT MY SESSHY!
Catrice: (storms in) He's not yours! You can't have him! (glares at Rain) Ooh, you're nothing but bad news!
The office is suddenly in an uproar, with yelling and screaming.
Scorpion's Lady: (walks in, smiling) So… can I meet them now? Can I meet all the characters?
B-M: (looks at her) I don't know if now is the best time. (trying to ignore the yelling in the background)
Scorpion's Lady: (getting an idea) Say Rain, would you consider Naraku?
Rain: (eyes bulge out of their sockets) WHAT!
Scorpion's Lady: (shrugging) Guess not, just a suggestion.
black tigeress: (running in excitedly) Has Sess found out yet? What's he going to do? (before B-M can answer, she rushes over to the screaming women, attempting to get her answers)
2 Souls 1 Body Half-Girl: B-M, where's My Naraku? It's been a while since he called me and I'm starting to get worried about him. He better get his ass back here soon.
B-M: Ahh… well… you see… (leans forward, whispering) He's hiding. He doesn't want to fix computers any more. (sits up and speaks in normal voice) He left, to cook up his insidious plots. Evil Hanyou!
2 Souls 1 Body Half-Girl: (grins) I'll find him. (runs upstairs)
B-M: (sitting at her desk watching the mayhem) What's the point? I mean… really, who can think with all this? (suddenly notices two heads pop round the corner)
Inuyasha and Tiyaku are silently gesturing her to them. She looks at the mayhem again then back at them. With a smile, she gets up and sneaks out.
Chapter 20: To Gently Soothe And Comfort
The tent flapped noisily under strong gusts of wind that swept over the parched and dying earth. The silence within its confines seemed to accentuate the eerie howl that marked its presence. The lone wolf snorted in disgust as she looked around her makeshift prison with contemptuous eyes. 'How dare he?' she riled inwardly at the injustices brought on her at her brother's hand. She had tried everything she knew to make him see reason but the only reaction she received was his retreating back as he walked away. Her blood boiled and she cursed his name for the hundredth time, swearing sweet vengeance on his foul soul. The tent flap suddenly lifted, drawing her from her vindictive thoughts. Her eyes flashed with interest, temporarily forgetting her ire as she gazed upon the one who held her brother's interest.
Kagura looked warily at the feisty girl sitting on the small box in the centre of the shelter with her arms folded and her face still held its sullen mask. Hesitantly, she stepped forward, waiting for the inevitable reaction. To her surprise, it did not come. Instead, the young wolf sat watching her with keen eyes. With a sigh of relief, Kagura approached her with the small parcel of food she held in her hand.
"I thought you might wish to eat something."
Rain's hand came out and grabbed the bag. She continued to stare at Kagura in a rather unnerving manner, which caused the Shiiyonian to shift uncomfortably on the spot.
"Is there anything else you need Rain?"
Rain looked at her a moment more before responding. "Tell me why you find my brother of such interest."
Kagura blinked in surprise, not expecting this question. "I… I am a Shiiyonian Warrior. I hold interest in all my comrades."
"My brother is such a simpleton. After all this time he still has not learned the proper manner in which handle his woman." Rain smirked at the thought.
Kagura felt the instant flush creep over her skin. "I assure you Rain, you are greatly mistaken. There is no more between Kouga and I then mere friendship."
"If you say so…"
-
Rain graced her with disbelieving eyes before turning her attention to the bag of food. Ignoring the woman, who seemed frozen in place, she quickly found some dried meat that appeared edible enough to consume. She looked back at Kagura enquiringly as she proceeded to chew on the morsel in hunger. The warrior blinked several times before movement returned to her and she quickly bowed her head, turning to leave quickly. Rain laughed to herself. 'I shall see what fun I can have with you and your… comrade my brother."
"Rin, what is the matter?"
Rin plastered a smile on her face before turning to the young boy that lay on the bed. "I just worry for my friends Shippou. They are all away fighting and I find it hard not to wonder if they are safe."
Rin felt bad for the deceiving the boy. Though her words held truth, they were not entirely correct. She knew the other Shiiyonians were safe. She felt their auras through the connection they all shared. 'No, they are not who I fear for.' Lord Sesshoumaru's angry face appeared in her memory. That one dreadful moment in the small city street, when he appeared before them, still caused fear to rise in her chest.
"Did the angel go with them?"
Rin blinked in confusion as she looked at Shippou. 'The angel?' she wondered for a moment before realisation hit her. 'Of course, Kagome.' The young boy was still convinced that she was a heavenly creature. Rin almost laughed but managed to contain it. She had no desire to hurt the child's feelings, especially now that he showed such positive signs of recovery.
"No she did not. She remains here with me."
"Do you think I could see her?"
Rin looked at him sympathetically. "I do not think she will have time to come here right now but maybe, a little later I can ask her."
The boy nodded his acceptance and Rin smiled at him. As he focused his attention on the book in his hand, she turned back to the window. She wondered if later, the Shiiyonian leader would feel up to such a visit. With what she faced, Rin hardly doubted it.
Golden eyes gazed unseeingly out of the large window, turbulent emotions darkening their depths. Tense fingers lifted to wipe the strain that marred his perfect brow. With a sigh, Sesshoumaru dropped his hands to his sides and leaned his head on the back of the chair. 'What am I to do with her now?' His jaw clenched as his mind conjured up images of its desired intention. Chasing away the enticing pictures, he stood and moved impatiently from his desk. His habitual pacing began its usual run, wearing its path upon the carpet. He no longer noticed the slightly dulled line on the deep blue flooring as he deepened their imprint further.
Never in his life, had Sesshoumaru felt so completely helpless. From the moment he assumed position as Lord of the Western Lands, all had bowed to his word. Every situation became his to control, every subject his to command. Now, he found someone who challenged that very authority, who left him feeling unsure of himself and vulnerable. He felt this insane urge to protect her from everything but suffered the anguish of knowing that he had no control where she was concerned. Kagome would do as she pleased, regardless of his orders. His pacing became as intense as the thoughts that circled his head. 'Does she not know that my intentions are to keep her from harm? Why does she insist on defying me at every turn? She is naïve, with no concept of the dangers that inhabit the earth. I will insist that she speaks of all her plans and that she informs of her intentions to leave the grounds.'
His pacing ended and a quick nod of the head approved his new decision. He was after all, the king of all the lands.
"By the heavens I swear, she will obey me and she will tell me what she was doing today."
With fire running through his veins, Sesshoumaru turned and walked to the door. He would sort this matter out and he would not relent until he had her agreement. He threw open the door and strode purposefully down the hall.
-
Kagome looked out the window, a scowl darkening her features. 'How long does he intend to make me wait?' Her anger raised a notch as she thought of the hours of confinement forced upon her by the tyrant. 'I am not a child… to… to be locked in my room for being naughty.' A sudden feeling of shame washed over her as she thought of the manner in which she and Rin sneaked out of the castle. Suddenly defensive, she excused her actions, 'well… if he would just let me do my job without interfering then I wouldn't have to sneak around'. A groan escaped her and she turned away from the window.
"What am I doing? I've been sitting her swinging from mood to mood for hours. One moment I'm angry with the… lovely man, and then I'm suddenly feeling guilty… guilty?"
Another groan escaped her. "This is ridiculous. I've done nothing to deserve this and I'm not staying here a minute more."
She glided across the room and swung the door open, freezing as she came face to face with her gaoler.
"Going somewhere?"
The quiet deadly tone sent shivers up her spine and goose bumps over her skin. She mentally shook herself and frowned at him. She would not let him intimidate her.
"Yes as a matter of fact."
His jaw clenched and he frowned back at her. "So… you choose to defy me once again."
Her eyes locked angrily with his. "I am not child to be locked in my room."
"Yet you behave as one."
Kagome's anger intensified and her face flushed red, her words forced between clenched teeth. "Only because you force me to."
She needed to get away from him, away from the sensations he created in her body. Her emotions barely held in check, she attempted to shove past him, feeling as though she would explode at any moment. To her dismay, he grabbed her by the arms and forced her back inside the room, closing the door with his foot.
"I did not say that you could leave," he hissed angrily at her.
How dare she? Nobody went against his word and lived. He would not tolerate it.
"Let me go" she struggled against his grip, pushing at his chest in an attempt to free herself.
His ire rose and he shook her forcibly. "Stop this stupid behaviour Kagome."
Her face flushed red once again, as guilt and shame mingled with her anger. He made her feel like such a child that she felt so embarrassed. Her struggles increased and her voice rose angrily.
"I said let go of me!"
"Not until you calm down!"
Her movements stilled and she stood before him breathing heavily as she attempted to control her raging emotions. 'What is the matter with me? Why am I getting so worked up?'
He watched her a moment, noting the play of emotions revealed by her expressive features. He could see her struggle in reining her temper, he could see it as well as feel it. Releasing her arms, he took a step back. He too, was struggling with his self-control. The moment she opened the door, his heart had begun its erratic chant. He had to say what he had come to say and leave as quickly as possible.
"There is something that you need to understand Kagome. I am in command here. That means that you do as I say. It means that you do not go anywhere unless I tell you that it is acceptable to do so. You will come to me with any plans that you have and discuss everything that you intend to do. Is that understood?"
Kagome glared at him silently, refusing to answer. 'There is no way that I'm agreeing to this.' She knew that situations would arise in which she would have to place herself in danger and she was certain that when the time came, he would object to her doing her duty. She could not agree with that, no matter how angry he became.
He looked at the stubborn set of her jaw, surprised that she had not voiced her disapproval. "What were you and Lady Rin doing in that area of the city?"
"We were lost."
He smirked. "You expect me to believe this when you went to all that trouble to hide your absence."
Kagome shrugged and walked to the window. "Maybe if you weren't such a dictator, I wouldn't have to resort to such extremes."
Anger swelled his chest. "What were you doing this morning?"
Kagome's heart beat faster. "We went to the markets. We turned down this street and ended up where you found us."
His ire rose further. He knew that she was lying. He moved to stand directly behind her, resisting the urge to press right up against her.
"You will tell me what you were doing."
Kagome released a strained sigh and responded in a dry, sarcastic manner. "I've decided to sell my body as a living."
Sesshoumaru's blood boiled and his fists clenched as he tried to hold on to his mounting temper. He could not decide which he wanted to do most… strike her, or throw her on the bed and satisfy his growing hunger.
"Answer me."
"I just did. Are you deaf?"
His hands twitched and a growl rose in his throat as his anger crept higher. "You are the most insufferable woman I have ever met, and I have come across some rather disgusting ones in my time. You have brought nothing but chaos to my castle and more worries upon my head than I can deal with. You have no knowledge of proper behaviour and show little resemblance to the lady that you are supposed to be."
"Gee, thanks." She kept the same dry sarcastic tone, ignoring the hurt she felt at his words. "And I hold just as much regard for you."
His control snapped. He grabbed her arm, spinning her around so roughly that she slammed into his chest. He grabbed both her arms when she tried to move back and held her still, lowering his angry face threateningly before hers.
"I have had enough of your sarcasm and stalling. You will answer my question. What were you doing in that part of the city?"
Kagome's heart hammered with a mixture of fear and excitement. She had no idea what she could say that would sound believable. She stared helplessly into his eyes, feeling her body warming at their close proximity. Her heart sped up and breathing became much more difficult. She quickly lowered her gaze and found it trapped by his lips.
"Well?"
She blinked and continued to stare dazedly at the sensual curves of his mouth, while somewhere in the back of her mind, a small voice questioned her sanity but it was distant, and the aching in her heart seemed to take away all her remaining senses. Those lips looked so inviting and they were so close…
His breath hitched as he watched her expression change. He felt strange sensations in his chest when he saw the way in which she stared at his lips and he became aware of her hands resting against his chest. The anger that filled him seconds before suddenly vanished, replaced by the searing heat of passion. His heart stopped beating completely as she moved forward and pressed her lips to his. He moved instantly, wrapping his arms around her waist and pulling her firmly against him. His mouth brushed urgently over hers, a groan escaping him as she opened her sweet lips and allowed him entry. He stroked her tongue with his, earning a moan in response. She slid her hand up his chest and neck, curling her fingers into his hair to deepen the kiss. Her body came alive, heating at every stroke of his tongue and every caress of his hands. They slid over the curves of her waist and down over her backside, causing closer contact between their bodies. She groaned at the evidence of his need, pressing herself firmly against it as liquid fire filled her core. Sesshoumaru's blood pumped faster through his veins as her sensual movements caused his desire to swell further. One hand slid up her back to cup her head, holding her in place as his mouth hungrily ravaged hers, his need intensifying by the second. His other hand held her lower body firmly against his as they brushed and rubbed against each other frantically. She wanted him so badly. Her nerves screamed and her body begged for the sweet release that he could give her. She wrapped her other arm around his neck and slid her body further up against his, attempting to ease the ache in her centre. He seemed to sense her need because he brought both hands to her backside and lifted her, initiating contact between their most sensitive areas. The legs that wrapped around his waist were Sesshoumaru's undoing. With a husky groan, he moved quickly to the bed and dropped to his knees in the centre, still holding her firmly against him as his tongue worked sensually around hers. As they fell to the sheets, he rubbed his throbbing need against her. Their bodies locked, they moved as one, imitating the sensual rhythm of love as they sought to ease their torment. His mouth left hers to trail moist kisses down her neck as his hand caressed her backside, raising her hips to accommodate his thrusting motion. The barrier of clothing soon became a great source of frustration to both as their hands sought contact with bare flesh. She shivered at the brush of his fingertips on her stomach and the tingling trail of his tongue against her ear. In a husky, shallow breath, she begged to him.
"Sesshoumaru… please…"
Even as the enticing plea fired his blood, it penetrated his lust-hazed mind. He stilled above her, ignoring the screaming demand of his body to give her that for which she begged. He slowly lifted his head and stared into her eyes, tempted again to capture her lips with his. 'Is this all a ploy to distract me from my purpose? Would she go that far and if so, what is she hiding?' Once again, his anger returned, intense in the wake of the heated desire that still held his body within its grip.
"Your games will not work on me!" he hissed angrily, his face still inches above hers.
Kagome blinked in confusion, trying to clear her mind and understand the meaning of his words. 'Games? What games?' She could not bring her thoughts together when his lips were still so close and his body so firmly pressed against hers.
His eyes narrowed as he watched her. 'Could I be wrong? Is this nothing more than her desire to make love with me?' His body reacted instantly to the thought and he tried desperately to ignore her heated centre that still pressed against his aching manhood. 'No!' his mind screamed. 'She has deceived you before and did she not lie to you but minutes ago?' He noticed her fixation with his lips and cursed silently as his traitorous body responded. 'I will not let her play me like some puppet.' He pulled away from her and lifted himself, sitting back on his heels as he stared down at her.
"I will not allow you to toy with me Kagome."
With the removal of his warm and mind-numbing presence, she came back to harsh reality. Her cheeks flamed with embarrassment at the memory of her blatant act, which almost brought her to a situation she would have more than regretted. She sat up, shuffling back in order to create some distance between them. Her eyes looked everywhere but at him. 'What was it that he said? It was something about toying with him. What did he mean?'
"I… I have no idea what you're talking about."
"Really?" His eyes narrowed as he leaned forward in a threatening manner. "I rather think you do. I think you know exactly how to distract a man."
Her eyes widened in shock at the meaning of his words. "You… you think… that I… I…"
He smirked coldly as he used her very words against her. "I think that a woman who is willing to sell her body would use it in any way she thought necessary to achieve her own ends."
Her face flushed a deeper red as anger and embarrassment warred inside her. 'He's calling me a whore' her shocked mind could produce no other thought.
"How dare you?" she hissed, her eyes narrowed as she pierced him with a deadly glare.
A chuckle accompanied the smirk he gave her. "How dare I speak the truth? Is that what you are asking me?"
Her anger boiled over and before she had time to think, her hand lashed out, slapping him soundly across the face. The silence that stretched between them was deafening, accentuating the heaviness of their laboured breathing. Their eyes burned into each other's in a silent battle of wills.
He had to get out of there. His tightly leashed emotions barely held in place, he breathed deeply in an attempt to stop himself from grabbing her again. He knew that if he gave in to the urge that this time he would not have the will to stop. He would take her and he would continue to do so until they were both satisfied. With a savage growl, he leapt from the bed and rushed out of the room.
Kagome did not move. She sat like a statue, frozen by a mixture of shock and desire. Even after he insulted her, she still wanted him. The intensity in his eyes as he had stared at her caused a new aching deep inside her. She knew that he had struggled with his control and a small part of her could not help wishing that he had lost that battle. She closed her eyes as she realised her thoughts.
"What is wrong with me? What am I saying? I don't want this."
She took a deep shaky breath, willing her body to obey her. Sinking down onto the bed, she curled herself into a ball as embarrassment and shame overwhelmed her. 'He accused me of being a whore and that's exactly how I behaved.' She fought back the tears that gathered behind her tightly closed eyelids and tried to ignore the sharp ache in her chest as she thought of his harsh accusations. 'Why do I care what he thinks?' she questioned as the first tear escaped its confines. His voice echoed in her mind, driving the knife of pain deeper into her wounded heart.
"You are the most insufferable woman I have ever met, and I have come across some rather disgusting ones in my time. You have brought nothing but chaos to my castle and more worries upon my head than I can deal with. You have no knowledge of proper behaviour and show little resemblance to the lady that you are supposed to be."
Kagome had no idea why those words cut so deeply but they did. She hugged the pillow, burying her face into its softness as she gave in to the need to cry. Hot tears poured from her eyes as the pain inside her chest increased. She suddenly felt so lonely, so alone. 'Mum… Sakura… I miss you all so much.' Her body shook with the force of her silent tears. 'I want to go home… I want to go home…'
-
The great white eagle extended its massive wings as it soared down over the treetops and glided towards the large army that massed at the edge of the open field. It moved lower to the ground as it neared the front line of soldiers, sailing purposefully towards a group of warriors.
Miroku's sharp gaze shifted from the surrounding countryside and focused on the eagle as it landed a short distance before him. He waited patiently as it shimmered and turned into the form of Harkinia. She rose from the ground and looked at him.
"They camp on the other side of the mountains but I see no preparation for battle."
Miroku frowned. "What are they doing?"
Kagura shrugged, her face showing her puzzlement. "They are eating, drinking… laughing… To be quite honest, they look as though they are celebrating."
"What?" Inuyasha stepped from behind Miroku, staring incredulously at Kagura. "The fighting has not even begun and they celebrate victory?"
Miroku remained silent as his mind worked over the facts. A niggling doubt had eaten away at him since they left the castle that morning. Something felt wrong but he was not sure exactly what that was. He turned to face the approaching General and the other Shiiyonians.
Himari watched the monk's thoughtful expression with interest. "Are they preparing for attack?"
Miroku shook his head slowly, still deep in thought. "No, it seems that they are in no hurry to start this fight and that makes me wonder."
"Do you think they know that we have discovered their ambush?" Kouga was doubtful of the fact, as little time had passed since they joined the armies at the borders.
"It is highly unlikely" Himari answered. "I know not of any from this world with your abilities. There was insufficient time for them to relay any information to their leaders."
"Their camp is well set. I am certain that they spent the evening there," Kagura informed them.
Miroku stroked his chin in thought. "So they arrived with no intention of attacking early and they proceed to feast instead of making preparations. Perhaps they wait for more reinforcements or… perhaps this a ruse to divert our attention."
"From what?" Inuyasha could not imagine why the Eastern Lord would draw them here deliberately. "He could not mean to attack the West. Our defences are too strong. Besides, the mass of his army lies here. What hope does he have of winning without them?"
"That I cannot figure out but something about this whole situation does not sit right with me." Miroku turned to Kohaku. "In the morning you will return to the castle and inform Shyra and the king of what transpires here. For tonight, we will wait and keep watch. There is still a chance that they mean to ambush us. This might be a trick to lower our defences. We must stay alert."
"I will set up patrols of the area to ensure that they do not gather behind us." Himari nodded to Miroku before walking away.
Miroku turned to Kagura. "Go and sleep for now Harkinia. You will fly out again when the hour turns to midnight."
She nodded and started through the line of men towards the camp, set up just inside of the dried up forest. Miroku turned back to the others and gave them all their tasks to prepare for the evening ahead.
-
Rin looked sadly at the lonely figure on the bed before closing the door. 'I have to do something,' she thought as she started down the hallway towards the North Wing. She could think of other option but this. For hours, she had tried desperately to alleviate Kagome's pain but to no avail. She sighed despondently, 'I cannot take away her sorrow for I am not its source.' With a look of determination, she walked to Sesshoumaru's office, pausing outside to knock.
Sesshoumaru knew who was outside and he knew why she was there. The last few hours of tormented emotions would have provided the answer, if his senses had not done so.
"Enter."
Rin opened the door and walked in, looking directly at the king. He shifted uncomfortably under her gaze but held it.
"What can I do for you Lady Rin?"
Rin watched him carefully, aware of his attempts to hide his emotions from her. "I know you feel her pain and that it hurts you greatly. You can end this suffering for both of you."
His jaw clenched at the undeniable truth of her words. His insides felt as though a hot knife was running through them and at times, he could barely breathe. He had found himself swaying from one emotion to another. Between fighting the tears that constantly welled in his eyes and struggling against the overwhelming urge to comfort her, he thought he would lose his mind.
"How would I do this?" he averted his eyes, staring into the gathering darkness outside.
"Go to her. Give in to the need to comfort her. Set right the wrong that caused this pain. The bond calls you both, filling you with longing. If you continue to fight this, you both suffer." Without another word, she nodded and left the king to ponder her advice.
Sesshoumaru inhaled deeply and closed his eye before slowly exhaling. She was right. The futile efforts he had made to block out the curse were laughable at best. However, the thought of what Rin suggested was just as troubling. His body heated instantly at the mere thought of Kagome in his arms. 'Damn this impossible situation.' Sighing, he leaned back into his chair and closed his eyes again, opening them instantly as another wave of emotion swept through him. 'When in hell will she stop crying?' he fumed internally. His raw nerves could take no more. He stood abruptly and clenched his fists. 'If she will not stop, I will make her. Even if I have to shake her senseless.' He stormed from his office, his agitation rising with each step. Her distress seemed to heighten immensely, indicating that she was aware of his anger. He barely suppressed the growl as he quickened his pace. Within seconds, he stood outside her room, breathing deeply in an attempt to gain control of his senses. Once satisfied, he pushed open the door and walked straight to the bed, fully intent on ending her self-pity.
Pausing by the bed, he looked down at her silent shaking form. He suddenly felt the urge to comfort her, shaking as he fought to control it. His body moved, as if pulled by some irresistible force and he found himself kneeling beside her. He sank down on the soft mattress, laying his body close behind hers. Before he could stop himself or question his actions, he reached out and grabbed her shoulders, turning her towards him.
Kagome struggled against his hands. She expected his anger and felt too emotionally fragile to deal with it. However, her hours of crying left her drained and her limp body provided little resistance to his strength. She kept her eyes closed as he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her against him. Her body became rigid as shock hit her. 'Is he… comforting me?'
He felt her stiffen and sensed her surprise. It caused his feelings of guilt to intensify. His hand lifted and he watched as it gently stroked her hair. He finally acknowledged the wisdom of Rin's words as a feeling so powerful swept through his body, leaving him with a sense of warmth and completion that felt right. He could not put a name to that emotion if he tried, he could not even think of a moment in his life that he had felt so whole and content. He was distracted from his thoughts when her body began to shake again. He felt the warmth of her tears as they wet the collar of his shirt. His heart ached with an intensity that scared him and he swallowed the lump that rose in his throat. His arm tightened around her waist as his fingers weaved into her hair to gently massage her scalp. Rubbing his cheek against hers, he whispered in her ear.
"I am sorry Kagome. I did not mean what I said. Please…" his whisper became low and husky, "do not cry. Please."
She took a deep shuddering breath and buried her face into his neck, feeling strangely comforted by his warmth. 'Why does this feel so right?' She felt safe and… loved? She gave herself a small mental shake, chasing away the preposterous thought. 'I must be more homesick than I thought.' She gave another shuddering sigh as she snuggled into him, shifting her body into a more comfortable position as exhaustion finally overtook her.
Sesshoumaru released the breath he held when he felt her settle against him. Her tears had ceased and now she was on the verge of sleep. He moved his head back to lie on the pillow and continued to stroke her hair, amazed at its soft texture. He wondered what he should do now that she was asleep. He knew he should return to his room but he felt a great reluctance to leave her. In fact, he felt extremely worn himself and the thought of shifting from his very comfortable position was not a welcome one. 'I will sleep for a short time then leave before the early hours of morning have passed.' With a sigh of contentment, he curled his fingers into a handful of her hair and rested his chin on the top of her head. His eyes closed and he drifted off to sleep, unaware of the peaceful smile on his face.
Back At The Office
AN: Firstly, I'd like to thank my friend and fellow author, AuroraNyte, for the help she gave me with this chapter. And, as usual, I'd like to issue the usual apologies for the delays in posting. Let's hope this year is more settled than last. I'd really like to get some of my stories finished.
While I'm speaking of my stories, I'd just like to mention that I'll be concentrating on "When Two Paths Entwine" until it's finished. That doesn't mean that I'll be giving up on the on the others, it simply means that I'll be posting more chapters of that one. I'd like to narrow it down to one story at time. That will make things a lot simpler for me and the waiting a lot shorter for you.
Usual Note: Anyone who would like me to notify them when I update, please leave your email address in your review and I'll add you to my update list. Please be sure to check the email properly, as some are not showing the entire email address (this is especially true for readers at Fanfiction-net). So please people, check it carefully. If you aren't receiving my notices, please email me and let me know.
Now, on to the reviews. Apologies to those of Fanfiction Sanctuary for not responding to your reviews. They're moving the site and I was unable to access the reviews.
Dayonna: If you're reading this, a thousand apologies on the lack of notification. I did try several times to send you notice of my updates but I kept getting error messages. It told me that it's a bad command line, or wrong email address. If you wouldn't mind leaving me another review with your email, I can fix it… hopefully.
AnimeAngelz: Oh wow girl, thanks. Now I feel extra bad about the wait. I'm working really hard on getting things organised so the updates will be more regular.
Jasmine Fields: Thanks for the compliment. I'm glad you approve of my Rin.
Personwithnoname: Yes sir!
scorpion's lady: my, my… you are a very inquisitive person. All your questions will be answered, just not all now. hehe. Welll, I can't give the whole plot away now, can I?
Angelmiko69: hey girl, it's been a while. Yes, your character is finally in and has lots in store for us. hehe. Can't wait.
Kyoko.Kai: Thanks for the review. Sorry for the wait.
fluffychick15: Thank you and I'll try to update more often.
black tigeress: Oooh girl, (grins conspiratorially) you have no idea of the chaos to come. Poor, poor Sesshy. Someone might need to get him a headache tablet. hehe. Well thanks for the compliment girl. Hope you enjoy this chapter too.
ptbear: Yeah, I agree. I can't wait till all that stuff happens too. I guess I better get cracking with the writing. So much still to happen. lol. Thanks for the review.
dawn: aww thanks girl, what a lovely compliment. Well, I'm glad you like my story. I'm so sorry about the wait. Hopefully I won't be so long next.
Rone M. Daen: Hey girl, I hope that was enough Sess/Kag action for you (grins mischievously) though somehow I'm sure it's not. Jakken is most definitely in this. And the dancer thing will explain itself very soon. Thanks for reviewing.
inuhakmoon: Oh, oh, oh, she's disturbed by my cliffies. (rubs chin) You know, one of the other readers has started a counselling group for people just like you. Yep, it's to help them cope with the stress my cliffies bring. Interested? lol. Chocolates you say? mmm. I'm writing, I'm writing.
MisticPrincess: Aw, I'm sorry hon. Where did I lose you? Kags and Rin set up an illusion of themselves sleeping so they could sneak off to the markets to find themselves a dancer. They don't want Sess to know… but of course, he finds out. If you're still lost, just email me and I'll be more than happy to explain things to you. Well girl, thanks for the review.
JAZZYGAME: hey girl, thanks for the vote of confidence. And wow, what a challenge. Kagome and Hiten. I do so love a challenge. Tell you what, I'll finish at least two of my stories, plus I owe another reader a short story, and then I'll write a Kag/Hiten just for you. How's that?
SunTory: Oooh I like your name. And thanks for the kind words. Oh, I think I love you girl. (sighs) It's so hard to find people who like my cliffies. hehe. I'll make sure each chapter has a good one, 'specially for you.
Cygnus: Ah boy, you can always trust your friends to tell you the truth huh? Thanks Cyn, I really didn't notice that it's almost been two months, wow. Ah, another nominee for Adrianna's cliffie counselling group. Ahahaha. And what's that Mark up to now? I'll have to hurry up and find something for that boy to do. (wiggles eyebrows comically) Wait til you see what I have in mind.
rainthewolfdemon: Hi Rain. Now I know that you're probably upset with me. (mumbles under breath) Actually I'd be surprised if you weren't. (smiles) And… well… (shrugs and sighs) I'm sure you'll yell at me anyway, so… I'll be waiting. Oh, by the way, I'm working on the edit tonight. And hey, I wouldn't go threatening me if I were you. Remember, Rain is at my mercy. Ahahahaha.
Marquel: Oh girl, how long has it been since I've spoken with you. Boy time flies. And yes, you're right. My family's been monopolising my time again. hehe. My mother got herself in a panic 'cause family from overseas are coming to stay. So yeah, I got to scrub her house from top to bottom. (rolls eyes) And she has 11½ acres of farmland to boot. (big grin) Lots of fun.
Chantelle: Hi girl, that's such a pretty name. Welcome to the madhouse and I think you belong here too. lol. You read this thing for that long! Wow, you're a fast reader. (stares in awe) Those are looong chapters. Well done. I'm so proud of you. (rambling to self) A writer's dream. Hey thanks girl, I'm quite fond of those too as well. (looks suddenly serious) just don't tell them I said that, will you?
Catrice: Thanks babe, and I give you permission to beat me senseless. Since I did promise you this chapter weeks ago, least I can do. (whispering) yeh I hear you bout Rain, she's making my hair stand on end. lol. Sango and Himari are cute, aren't they? hehe. Well, I hope you enjoyed this chap. Lots of your baby in it.
healincompassion: yay, another update! Hey sorry bout the wait girl and thanks for the review.
Mac: Mac, oh Mac… I am so, so sorry. I give you permission to slay in which ever way you think fitting. I know how sucky it is waiting for an update. I'm trying to concentrate on finishing one of my other 3 stories off before I concentrate on this one. I figure that if I narrow it down to one story at a time, the wait won't be quite as long. I'll try hard not to keep you waiting so long.
Adrianna: Oh you poor love. You are having a bad time. Hey guess what? Good news. I've got quite a few readers lined up for that counselling group of yours. hehe.
Silver: Ahh, another one who must shoot me. Hey, sorry I didn't make that deadline. I'll try making it up to you with more chapters. Unfortunately, I have 2 other ongoing stories at present but I'm trying to narrow it down. Anyway, thanks for the review.
2 Souls 1 Body Half-Girl: Wow thanks babe. Oooh, your Naraku huh? (looks around, scratching head) just where did he disappear to? Ah yes, I remember. He's off somewhere… cooking up some insidious plot. hehe.
JeSsI: Oh thanks girl, what praise. Well… I guess your question was answered. hehe. As if you didn't know. And hey, didn't it get rather interesting this chapter? Wonder what will happen in the morning. Sorry the update took so long. I have 2 other ongoing stories but I'll try to get the next chapter up ASAP. lol.
Migele: I think you might be right. Wonder what else he'll discover? hehe. Well stick around, 'cause it gets even more interesting. And thanks for the review. See you next chap.
NightSky: Wow thanks girl. I'll take you up on that offer. I often stumble upon things that don't sound quite right. I'll ask you next time. I have a couple of novels sitting on the side. I haven't started them yet but when I do, I wouldn't mind a few people to beta read. I like honest opinions, so please let me know if you'd be interested. It's a future project. I'll be too busy this year to start but hopefully soon. Just let me know. See you next chapter girl.
Teresa: hey girl! Sorry it's been so long. I've been helping my mummy out of her bind. Lots of housework and farm work. hehe. So what did you think of this chapter? Lots of emotions huh? It'll be interesting to see what happens next. lol. I'm so naughty. And the dancer will provide much, much fun. Anyway girl, I'll email you soon. Take care of yourself and the best for your family.
Kira: Aw girl, I'm sorry. I feel so bad for making you hang out like that. I'm trying to shorten the length of time between the updates. I have 2 other stories going and I'm hoping to narrow it down to 1 soon, so everyone doesn't have to wait so long. Thanks so much for that wonderful review. I'll see you next chapter.
Well guys, thanks for reading and all your faithful reviews. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. See you next time.
Babs