Title: I Can't Act The Way I Used To Be

Author: Aeki Muffinhands


Sango looked so crestfallen it was almost hard for Kagome to look her in the eyes. Who did this? She grabbed Kagome and shook her a little, guilt, sadness, everything wrapped into one.

It's nothing Sango. Kagome pushed Sango's clinging hands away. Please, can't I just get dressed? Don't let them find out, not yet not yet.

Sango forced herself to release her friend. Please please no.

Inu-Yasha barked her name out, with just her name it meant so much, but most of all it mean: Follow me. She did.

And they left Kagome there, naked and ashamed that they had found out something was wrong. She hoped they didn't know it was him. She didn't want to leave them just yet.

And when they were out of earshot Sango turned on Inu-Yasha. Oh Inu-Yasha! Sango blurted suddenly, flinging herself into his arms for comfort that she so rarely asked for. She hid her face in his robes - she was ashamed for him to see to cry. I don't know what happened to Kagome!

Inu-Yasha, not quite sure how to react just patted her back clumsily. I know.

She was squeezing him so tightly. Those markings! They are the same color!I know. Inu-Yasha held her until she felt she couldn't breath anymore.

That's why she has been leaving us! Sango sniffled, putting bits and pieces together. She was going to see him.I know. Inu-Yasha began patting her again, trying to work through this in his mind as well.

But why? Sango's eyes went wide for a moment. W-what if he is blackmailing her? Then everything made perfect sense, she pushed away from him to look into his eyes. Do you think that is it! She was so angry now. She couldn't stop crying now, she covered her face with her hands. He got to her, we let him get to her!

Inu-Yasha saw the logic in her statements; maybe Naraku was using her after all. Maybe he is doing something. His face darkened. But he won't be using her anymore, I promise Sango.We have to find out what he did what he is holding over her. Sango was wiping her eyes, trying to get a hold of herself. Oh Kagome! Sango felt so horrible for not knowing. Ever since she closed herself off to me I should've known. When she began hiding herself from me. Oh, why didn't I see it before!

Don't worry. Inu-Yasha gave her shoulder a pat. Kagome is strong, she'll be ok. He tried to smile reassuringly, but inside he was probably just as upset as her. We'll help her work through everything, we'll make sure she feels safe. He half wondered when he began caring so much for these little humans that he would talk like this. He felt that maybe it was ok to be nice sometimes maybe.

Thank you Inu-Yasha. Then she had to ruin it all with that happy and yet sad look on her face, the one Kagome had sometimes.

For what? He bristled.

Never mind. Sango smiled, realizing that she had embarrassed him. He was somewhat like her in that regard. He wasn't used to be thanked. Let's go talk to her.

And then they realized that they had just left her alone again Shit!


He finally found him, the jewel shards within him pulsing in rapid succession now. Under his fluffy white pelt he was grinning manically, but no one knew, if anything did see him they just saw the hollow eyes of a long dead animal. It wouldn't be long now before they led him to the wolf prince.

Naraku felt a bit of unease, and he was sure it was on Kagome's part. He had just left her after all. The nagging feeling had been far too great so he had came to her, only to find that the dog had actually saved her first. He wanted to laugh, they were going to find out about the markings, but he was almost sure that they would not figure it out just yet. Kagome might even lie to them this time she was not ready yet. She would be soon. And the best part of it all, was her friends were going to help him.

The wolf came into view and he halted behind a tree to see who all was with him. No one, perfect.

There was no need for flowery speeches and he wasn't about to let Kouga speak, he didn't feel like having his previous plots recited to him. He was far too impatient for that now. He stretched out his arm, and just as Kouga was turning around, sensing far too late the danger to his person, his nimble and yet powerful fingers wrapped themselves around his throat and sent him to the ground.

Kouga's eyes went wide, his legs kicking pathetically as his hands clenched around his attacker's arms. Naraku! Just when he thought his vision was about to fail him the horrible grip eased before he was flung strait through a tree. He hit the ground with a pitiful thud. He only had time to look up before the man was once again upon him, obviously Naraku thought to make short work of him but he was wrong. His legs weren't the only things that were swift. Suck on this! He struck out with his claws raised. He smiled in satisfaction as the man's flesh gave way. As Naraku stared at him in stunned silence he sprang away from him, readying himself for his next move.

Naraku was surprised, very surprised that he was able to even touch him that's what he got for not being overly cautious. It hurt, but he would live, and he could most certainly beat this cretin. do you really think you've hurt me? The wound in his chest healed over in a moment, his body coupled with the shikon fragments making it quite easy for him.

I guess you're here for the rest of them? Kouga didn't need to elaborate; they both knew what he was talking about.

Naraku, cordial as ever just smiled underneath his pelt. Of course.

Not being able to see his face infuriated him, but he wasn't about to let that distract him now. You'll have a hell of a time getting them then. Kouga dared the man to come closer - he was ready.

I expect I shall. Naraku said in his most sincere voice, which didn't sound sincere at all. He grew very still just then, as if he were ready to attack at any moment.

Kouga growled, bringing his arms up in a defensive position, sniffing the air silently. He half wondered why he wasn't already being bombarded with poisonous miasma just yet. Then he caught a whiff of something he hadn't expected, and it was coming from Naraku himself. He allowed himself a smile before voicing his findings in the most taunting tone he could think of. You smell like flowers.

Naraku couldn't help but grin back at him, this time allowing Kouga to see. Yes, well This was working out much better than he had hoped. He silently wondered if this stupid wolf could figure it out without him having to spell it out if he could then he could see the dawning realization on his face. Now that would be a delicious site indeed. Gentlemen shouldn't talk of these things. Take the bait

Of course he wasn't going to get it! What are you talking about! Kouga snarled before taking the initiative and launching himself upon his attacker.

Naraku sighed. Ah well, it was nice to dream. His fist came down upon the wolf prince's head just as he was about to rip his gut open again.

Kouga's face met the grassy plane roughly before he was hauled up to his feet only to be kneed in the stomach. He couldn't breath. Nn- augh! Naraku's hand was once again around his throat, but he didn't squeeze it as roughly as before. He didn't need to.

Naraku was practically humming. Such a lovely face you make.L-let go. Kouga gasped, sinking his nails into Naraku's arms.

Naraku scoffed at that, did he truly believe he would honor his request?

Kouga knew this bastard was going to kill him unless he did something, the problem was, he didn't know what he could do. If I'm going to die I'm going to see his face He reached up quickly as grasped the pelt and tore it off for all he was worth. Naraku was once again stunned by his actions and it gave him a moment to examine him before he was killed. He certainly wasn't expecting this, he had thought he would find an ugly twisted man he just saw the face of a young human man and very pretty man. But that didn't matter, because he was going to mar that face, if even for just a second.

You dare! Naraku was angry before, now he was enraged. His grip tightened so that he wondered why Kouga's head hadn't popped off like a cork.

So this is it? Kouga thought. Kagome he could see her face behind his eyelids. She would never be his. At least, at least she will avenge my death. she

Naraku stopped at her name and Kouga took advantage of this.

She'll kill you for what you have done. He was gasping, trying so very hard to get the words out, but he was going to do it. never forgive you.

Naraku smiled in victory, tossing him to the ground, now it was time to reveal all to this pitiful fellow. He couldn't wait to see the look on his face. I don't think Kagome will be killing me. He was purring again, just the sound of her nameS-she will! Kouga thought he had believed himself too strong for the miko. She'll kill you and

Damn, he really is thick. No wonder Kagome could never truly discourage the man from his foolish chase. No, no. Kagome won't be stopping me at all. He held back a smile full of wicked glee. For she is mine you see.

Kouga laughed, choking as he breathed. How ridiculous that notion was. Kagome was pure and good, everything that this man wasn't! And and then the flowers

Naraku got the look he was after, and then he was the one who laughed.

What did you do to her! Kouga found renewed strength and struck out against Naraku, pinning him against a tree and digging his claws deep into his chest. But the man continued to laugh.

I did nothing that she did not want. Naraku chuckled deeply.

He twisted his hand inside him before slashing outward, and still the man laughed. It unnerved him.

She is so lovely. He was purring that bug-like purr that reminded him of creepy crawly things, it sickened him to hear. Her voice is so sweet when she calls my name. He coughed a little, blood dripping from his lips, but he never stopped grinning.

Kouga slapped him. Shut up! He was finding what he heard far too much to handle already.

He never missed a beat. When she writhes underneath me He was shivering just thinking about it.

Shut up! Kouga repeated, now he was strangling him. In his heart, he knew that it had to be untrue Kagome wouldn't

It didn't help, Naraku continued talking, as if nothing were the matter. I'm sure you can smell her on me Despite the heavy restraining on Kouga's part he shrugged enough to reveal his shoulder through his torn robes, the mark. She did this.

Kagome's scent it had to be a trick, butI claimed her, my mark is all over her body. Not quite the truth, but he would take care of that soon enough.

Kouga found himself growling, with every word wanting to kill him more and more.

She loves me. Naraku taunted. She told me just the other day- Kouga's claws dug into the man's throat, his other hand viciously slicing at him. You did something to her she would never-

Naraku's face was so close to his ear as he spoke. Kagome is mine and you cannot take her away from me. When Kouga tried to pull away from him, he just grabbed at his arm and held fast. When she looks at me she sees only me. She knows that she is mine. He took a shuddering breath and added. And when she looks at you she sees nothing.

Kouga felt searing pain shoot up through his legs. Ah- AHHH! He held onto Naraku despite himself.

Naraku's body was already healing. I enjoyed our little chat, but now I must take my leave of you. He clenched his fist around the jewel shards that his appendages took from the wolf's legs so he could see their shine. He didn't need to warn him to stay away from Kagome he should already know. He was once again riding his cloud of miasma back to his castle. These two He grasped the jewel shards to remind him of their presence before absorbing them into his body. Only four more to go, the boy and then Kagome. Maybe he should pay her a visit soon.

Kouga could only stare after him blankly, not truly able to gather his thoughts.

Then the only two surviving members of his clan managed to catch up with him. Ginta was the first to speak as they approached. Kouga! What happened!

He looked at them with dull eyes before sending his vision skyward once more. Kagome


They were walking toward her quickly, they both carried worried expressions until they saw her. Then it was a show of determination in their gaze that frightened her to no end. She wondered what they would saw? What they would do? She was going to find out.

Sango said reproachfully. We know what happened.You do? Kagome tried desperately to sound innocent, but she knew that it wouldn't save her now.

Yes, we do. Inu-Yasha confirmed.

Kagome began quickly. I'm sorry I didn't-No Kagome, Sango quieted her. Please, don't say anything.We need you to shut up and listen for once. Inu-Yasha grumbled.

Sango chided him before turning back to Kagome. we know that you have been seeing Naraku.

Kagome closed her eyes and covered her face in shame, it was one thing to actually do the deed, but to have Sango actually say it was something much different. I'm sorry.

Inu-Yasha and Sango looked at each other sadly for a moment before Sango spoke again. Please Kagome, don't say that.

What? Kagome looked up at that, and all she saw was sadness.

We don't know what Naraku said to you Inu-Yasha started, Or what you think that he holds over you, but you don't have to do anything he says anymore.That's right! Sango chimed in. We'll protect you, don't worry Kagome.

Kagome had been listening to them with unwavering interest, half wondering if she should speak at all. They still don't know. She closed her eyes and smiled. I get to be with them a little while longer. It made her glad, it gave her time to think.

Those marks, Inu-Yasha frowned, now talking to Sango more than anyone else. That bastard! If we kill him, then they will go away.That's right. Sango nodded to Kagome. We won't let him get away with shaming you Kagome.

They really knew how to lay it on thick. Inu-Yasha? They both asked at once.

Please don't tell Miroku or Shippo, it's very embarrassing. They both understood immediately, or at least they thought they did. Miroku was a pervert and Shippo was far too young to hear about such things.

Don't worry, your secret is safe with us. Sango agreed for the both of them.


Kikyo looked up at the sky suddenly, as if sensing something from afar.

What is it Kikyo? Kohaku asked the elder maiden.

The jewel, She said softly, finally looking at him. He took the two from Kagome wolf friend.I see. Kohaku nodded.

It is almost time. Kikyo looked back at the sky in contemplative indifference. Naraku will come for you and when the time comesI will give the jewel to him. Kohaku finished. It's Midoriko's will I know. He did not seem sad at his fate though.

After he has taken it, he will have to corrupt it. Kikyo's face hardened as she gazed upon those puffy white clouds. That will give me time to track him down, and once he takes the jewel into his body I will purify it. Kohaku wore a sad smile. Then this will all be over everyone can be happy.You are a brave little boy. Kikyo commended.

I'm not brave. Kohaku frowned at that, thinking of all the times that he chose to forget, when all he should have done was remembered. I am a coward.You think too little of yourself. Even if this boy was like her, undead, he was still a boy, and in her heart, despite it's chilly nature as of late - still had a soft spot for children.

Kohaku asked, fidgeting slightly. Will you do me a favor?It depends if I can grant your request. Her father said something like that to her when she was little, before he died.

If you see my sister, tell her that I loved her and I'm sorry for making her worry so much.

Kikyo smiled. I can do.


Author's notes: I keep worrying about this story. I just hope I am not making the character's sound strange! It's easy to make a one-shot but it's so hard to keep them in character for a long time. I tried my best! Tell me if I make the character's sound weird – so I can fix it.

Onto the reviews!

deathdreamerofneverlove – I know! I'm so bad with those! (snickers) I'm not sure if this chapter is considered a cliffhanger as well – but I think it ended on a positive note so I guess not. P.S. I love your name, it is very romantic.

Amy Lee – I know what you mean! The formatting problems are driving me nuts! If my punctuation isn't replaced with numbers it's getting deleted. I tried to replace the missing question marks the other day – and they were showing up while I was editing but disappeared the second they were put online (growls!)

I'm glad you liked that chapter. I agree, I also can't stand it when I see Kagome being put in such horrible situations where there is no escape from her misery or she is a glittering ball of sunshine that burns my retinas out. (Aeki is being waaaay too dramatic here!) I'm trying to make sure I don't let her fall into one of those crummy ruts. Please PLEASE warn me if I do this. Sometimes when I get a touch of writers block I write some crazy, corny stuff. So slap me with a stick if I do!

Fire/Ice Fox Goddess – Will do!

Petty Insanity – You're an orc! I'm a dwarf! (or if I'm Gaby I'm a hobbit!) But even if we are natural enemies – I didn't mean to make you cry. I'll be sure to update sooner – and I'll be accepting that chocolate thank you very much but I can share!