Update: Chapter edited.

Disclaimer: Usual stuff, Inu and co are not mine…oh well.

A/N: as promised here is the second update…have fun…I know I did ;D

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Chapter Eleven: Boys will be Boys

Julia now stood opposite her opponent, ready for him to make a move, not taking anything for granted. It had been a few days since she had faced him, but she could handle it. Ah, here he comes.

Kouga had told her first thing this morning that he was ready to give it a go again. He'd insisted that he was fine sooner, but she'd had her hands full with the kids, or at least, that was her excuse. Kouga really did need some time to heal, but she knew he would go stir crazy soon if he wasn't doing more than babysitting. Even having Kagome at the castle did not seem to help.

Inwardly, though, Julia was also glad for the distraction. She had fun playing with the kids, but it gave her far too much time to think, especially during games such as hide and seek. The only time she was ever found with any speed was when it was Kohaku's turn to seek. Today she really did not want to think about anything. Regardless of her somewhat decisive decision the previous night she still found herself thinking about the demon lord's supposed change of heart.

"Keh, you'll never learn anything from that wimpy wolf," a familiar voice shot, cutting through her thoughts. She followed Kouga long enough to see him stand down before turning her attention to Inu Yasha. She knew better than to let her guard down because of little distractions.

"Like you would know anything about real fighting, Dog Breath," Kouga shot back, arms crossed over his puffed out chest. Julia could see Kagome glaring at the boys and knew that a tongue lashing was on its way. So Julia decided to have a little fun.

"Why don't we settle this right now?" she suggested, placing one hand on her hip and gesturing with the other. "Why don't you two spar?" Inu Yasha cracked his knuckles and grinned, almost evilly if that was possible. Kouga simply stood, a confident smile gracing his lips.

"Wait," called Kagome as she came to stand next to Julia, "I don't know if this is such a good idea, I mean they were both hurt in the last battle and -"

"Nah, they're fine." Julia interrupted. "Besides, it's not like they are going to kill each other." Though, judging by the boys' expressions, she could see that they may have had that in mind. "So, how about we lay down a couple of ground rules?" They both stared at her. "What? Did you think I was going to let you two tear each other to pieces? Here's the deal - you guys go three rounds, best two out of three wins, and each round is decided by one of you landing a solid punch on the other. This is just sparring after all."

"Keh, he'll be knocked out the first time I lay a hand on him." Inu Yasha bragged. "We won't even need three rounds."

"You say that now, Mutt-face, but you know you would be the one kissing the ground." Kouga shot back.

"So let's see it." Julia prompted. "Are you two game? If not, I'd rather be working out right now instead of watching you two blow hot air." There was a nod from each combatant. "Good. Take your positions." Kouga and Inu Yasha moved away from the two girls and stood facing each other. "Ready...begin!"

The speed at which they rushed each other was incredible. Julia watched as they lunged and jabbed, each trying to land the first punch. Julia was wondering how she would be able to tell when one or the other actually managed to succeed. Glancing over at Kagome she could see the worry on her face.

"Don't worry, Kagome," Julia said, returning her gaze to the match. "They needed this."

"What do you mean?" asked Kagome, not taking her eyes off the fight.

"Just what I said. Inu Yasha's been wanting to beat something up since he got here and Kouga just really wanted to beat Inu Yasha up." Out of the corner of her eye she saw Kagome's mouth form a silent 'oh.'

"What is going on out here?" called Sango as she and Miroku came to join them.

"Eh, they just needed to blow off some steam," Julia replied, glancing back at the pair.

"I always knew it would come to this." Miroku remarked as he shook his head. "What's the prize?" he asked, glancing towards Kagome.

"No prize, Miroku." Julia replied, rolling her eyes. "They're each just trying to prove they're the best." She glanced at Kagome, thankful that she seemed oblivious to the little interchange that had just happened. Julia knew that Kouga would definitely take the opportunity to show up Inu Yasha. She wished there was something she could do about that, but she knew that the three of them had to work that out.

"So are they just going to fight until one or both of them can't move any more?" Sango asked, obviously trying to change the subject.

"What? Oh, no." Julia proceeded to explain the rules she had set up before the match began and what had actually prompted the idea. Still, in all that time, neither combatant had managed to land a single punch on the other.

"It actually looks like Inu Yasha is using his head." Miroku commented as he took a seat on the grass. Sango followed suit and nodded her head in agreement.

Julia was also going to sit down when she heard the kids come running towards them. Shippou was leading the little band with Rin and Kirara close on his heels. Kohaku brought up the rear, looking for all the world like a sort of rear guard.

"See? I told you they were fighting." Shippou squeaked. "Kagome, aren't you going to stop them?" Shippou's landing on her shoulder brought Kagome out of the daze that she seemed to be in.

"Hmm, no Shippou, not this time," she replied softly.

"But they might kill each other!" he blurted, clearly afraid for his friend. Julia had felt some of the animosity between the two, but she could tell that Shippou looked up to Inu Yasha as sort of a father figure, or maybe…as an older brother.

"No, they are just playing this time." Kagome explained to the little fox, though Julia could hear some of the uncertainty in her voice. Shippou just looked more confused.

"It is okay, Shippou." Julia interrupted gently. "No one is going to die." The fox kit looked a little less nervous and decided to join Rin and Kohaku back on the ground. Kirara wandered over to where Sango was and curled up next to her, watching the fight as intently as everyone else.

"YOU'RE TOO SLOW, DOG BREATH!" The taunt brought all of Julia's attention back to the fight. Kouga had apparently just dodged one of Inu Yasha's attacks by back-flipping out of the way. However, Julia cringed when she saw what was waiting for him.

"DON'T BE SO FULL OF YOURSELF!" shot back Inu Yasha as he appeared behind Kouga and managed to trip him, pin him and punch him in the gut all in one swift motion. So shocked by the sudden onslaught of action, Julia momentarily forgot that she should probably step up as referee.

"First round goes to Inu Yasha!" she called as she ran up to them. "Are you guys okay?" she asked in a quieter voice.

"Like that actually hurt." Kouga sneered, holding his gut as he stood.

"I just didn't want you to complain about a stupid handicap while I beat you down in the next round, you wimpy wolf," shot back Inu Yasha as he removed his red jacket. It had apparently started to come lose. "I'll even take off my armor so you can't say I was cheating." Inu Yasha's eyes narrowed as he tossed his coat aside. Julia made a mental note to ask Kagome what he had meant by armor - the garment looked like nothing more than cloth.

"Okaaaaay, so I am going to take that as a 'yes'," she commented more to herself, before continuing in a louder voice. "Okay, are you guys ready for round two?" They took their positions and stood ready. Julia took that opportunity to back away from the 'battle field.' "Begin!" she shouted and immediately they were back in action.

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Sesshoumaru had heard the commotion start even from his study and despite himself he was curious. He was only moments behind the demon hunter and the monk, but decided to keep his presence unknown. So from a vantage point amongst the trees, where he had first watched Julia and Kouga spar, he watched the fight between his half-brother and the wolf.

However, his gaze wandered more than once towards the woman he had found occupying his thoughts of late. She stood there with the other humans, watching the fight and apparently explaining what was going on. Of that Sesshoumaru did not care. He had known there was tension between those two and figured something like this would happen. Besides, the others were not rushing to stop them and Julia wore a smile as she spoke to the others so it must not be too serious.

A smile. It seemed that in that moment last night when he had smiled that he had felt something from her that he had yet to experience. She was nervous. It was not quite the same thing as fear, it was less extreme in nature and not as prominent, but it was there. He had sat there after she left, wondering what had caused her to feel so, only to return to the castle with his question still unanswered and wondering why he felt some small sense of triumph for evoking that feeling. Still, even watching her now, he did not fully understand what had happened.

The arrival of the children had brought his attention back to the fight. He watched as the two moved in and out and saw when Kouga made a mistake that would be his downfall if Inu Yasha saw it, too. To Sesshoumaru's utter surprise his brother did exactly what he would have done and had Kouga flat on his back in a matter of seconds.

"Hmm," he smirked to himself. That was unexpected. His brother had actually done something right. Julia seemed to be making sure of something and then suddenly ran back and called for round two to begin. It was then that Sesshoumaru fully understood what was going on. It was indeed a game, a tournament that they were holding, though why it had begun he could not say.

The two had leapt back into battle as soon as she had spoken. Kouga looked, if anything, more determined in his fight against Inu Yasha. Inu Yasha, on the other hand, had taken on a cocky attitude that Sesshoumaru recognized. He was too confident. One win and he lets it all go to his head, gods he is still just a pup. Perhaps it would be good to knock him down a peg so that the fight was level again he thought, and he knew just how to do that.

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Inu Yasha was living high on life. He had already knocked the wind out of the wimpy wolf once, one more time and that wolf would never think about trying to take Kagome from him again. He was slightly shocked by Julia's suggestion at first, but after thinking on it he saw the benefits to taking her up on it. He would not only get to have some much needed stress release, but he would show the wolf who was better.

He noted that Kouga seemed more on guard and alert. Getting another win would not be as easy as last time. Who am I kidding? he thought to himself. Getting the first one was not easy! If Kouga hadn't slipped up he might not have gotten that first punch.

Dodging an attack, he tried to concentrate on finding a weakness in Kouga's defense, but something else was edging in on his senses. Something that he had always kept an awareness for since he was a child. He knew he shouldn't have, but he turned his head to find that his senses were indeed correct. Sesshoumaru was standing just behind his friends. In that instant, Kouga saw Inu Yasha's distraction and took full advantage of it.

Inu Yasha found himself flat on his back, knocked down by a punch to his right shoulder. Damn it! he cursed to himself, and glared at Sesshoumaru. Why did he have to show up now?

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The surprised gasp coming from all of Inu Yasha's friends echoed Julia's thoughts. Inu Yasha seemed to actually have things under control, what had happened? It was then she saw the half-demon glaring behind her and she turned to see the object of his gaze. Apparently the others had seen this as well for now they were all staring at Sesshoumaru. Bored expression in place, arms crossed over his chest, and standing there like it was nothing out of the ordinary.

"Lord Sesshoumaru!" the little girl squealed. Did Julia actually see him flinch slightly when she did that? "Did you come to watch them play too?" He merely nodded to the little girl, but said nothing.

Is that the only reason he's here? Julia wondered while still staring at him. It was then that he looked over at her, causing her to turn quickly back towards the field where she found an excuse to look away. Running out to the field she stopped short of Inu Yasha and Kouga and turned towards the group.

"Round two goes to Kouga," she called. "Looks like we are going for the tie breaker in round three." She turned back to see Inu Yasha still staring at Sesshoumaru and Kouga standing nearby, actually looking like he might be out of breath. "Inu Yasha, do you want to finish this later?" she asked quietly, seeing that he might still be a little distracted.

"No," he said suddenly, voice steady and firm, "we will finish this now." His eyes held a determination that was almost frightening and if she had to guess she figured this last fight would be more of a show for his brother than to actually kick Kouga's butt. The object of Inu Yasha's frustration had changed and Julia felt slightly bad for Kouga, but only slightly.

"Alright, but ummm…just remember this is for fun, okay?" She tried to lighten the mood a bit, but Inu Yasha had already moved to his first fighting stance, and Kouga appeared to have realized the changed conditions as well. "Oh, well." she said with a shrug, and walked back to the others. "Reeeaady, BEGIN."

But neither combatant moved. They only stood staring at one another. Inu Yasha stood facing slightly to the side, arms at his sides. His eyes had not changed. They were still narrowed and focused on Kouga, who stood facing Inu Yasha head on, arms crossed over his chest, with eyes that mimicked Inu Yasha's.

This might not end very pretty she thought to herself.

A breeze blew across the field, and Julia let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding. It stirred up some of the lose grass and debris that had been created from the last two matches. It caught their hair and blew a few strands across Inu Yasha's face. The stand still was killing her, why didn't they move? Looking around she could see the others seemed to be just as anxious as she was, especially Kagome.

"So what brings you out here?" she asked Sesshoumaru as she dropped back to where he stood. He glanced at her momentarily and focused back on Inu Yasha and Kouga.

"I heard the fighting." he said, straight-forward and brief as always. "I wanted to make sure they weren't killing each other before Naraku got another shot at it." Did Sesshoumaru just make a joke? His tone was so serious that she could not tell, but there was a slight sparkle to his eyes that made her wonder.

"Well, I think they probably would not have killed each other before," she said off-handedly. "But, now that you're here I'm not sure." It seemed as though Sesshoumaru might have half-grinned momentarily, but she was sure she'd imagined it. However, any further discussion on the subject was halted when Kouga finally made the first move.

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He managed to wait out the staring match thought Sesshoumaru. Good. He'd been almost positive that Inu Yasha would make the first move, but he had not. He was also mildly amused that Julia had caught on to the reason Inu Yasha's fighting style had changed, but he should have expected that. She seemed to be smarter than the average human.

Pulling his thoughts away from her, he concentrated on the fight. Inu Yasha actually seemed to be on the defensive as opposed to launching a full-out attack without thinking. Sesshoumaru had fought him numerous times before and every time it was the same. He would attack head-on without a care in the world. Could it be that Inu Yasha had actually learned a few things?

"You guys want to go do something else?" he heard Rin ask. On the periphery of his vision he watched as the children all left to go find another means of entertainment, the fire cat in tow. She would make sure they were all safe. They did not understand the importance of this particular fight and, because of that, did not care about the outcome. However, he did see the small fox peering back as he left. Perhaps one that had traveled with his brother understood in his own small way.

"It would appear that neither is giving the other a chance in this match," the monk commented after the fight had continued for a while longer. Occasionally the two combatants would pause in their fight to apparently catch their breaths, but neither let their guard down.

"They could be at this the rest of the day," added the demon hunter. But Sesshoumaru knew better. They were both using all of their strength in their attacks and were obviously feeling the affects. Even the wolf, with the added strength from his jewel shards, was tiring.

A charge from both led to the exchange of a few blows and blocks from both. Afterwards they landed opposite each other in crouching positions, but neither moved.

"Had enough, Dog Breath?" Sesshoumaru heard the wolf taunt. It was evident that he was indeed out of breath.

"Hah! I'm just getting warmed up," retorted Inu Yasha, though he did not sound much better.

"Maybe we should stop them?" suggested Kagome a moment later.

"No." Sesshoumaru found himself replying before the others had a chance. "Neither wants to and to do so would only make tension worse between the two." Besides, he added to himself, I want to see how this plays out.

"But they could really hurt each other." Kagome added, worry evident in her voice.

"Sesshoumaru is right." Julia said gently. "They need to do this."

"I would agree," added Miroku as Sango nodded, "you have always stopped them from fighting in the past…and for good reason most of the time, but now…" he shook his head rather sagely if Sesshoumaru was any judge. The man might actually make a good monk someday.

"Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you!" The call brought all their attention back to the field. Kouga was up and an instant later Inu Yasha joined him. It looked like the wolf was throwing it all into one last charge and Inu Yasha had the same idea. This will end it thought Sesshoumaru, but what he didn't know was how.

Almost in slow-motion, Sesshoumaru watched as each pulled back for one final punch and both connected. Each hit the other squarely in the jaw resulting in both flying back a moment later, landing solidly on the ground. But, it was Inu Yasha who had made first contact. Well, what do you knowhe said to himself, inwardly smiling. The next moment Kagome had taken off towards Inu Yasha with Julia close behind. He was going to leave at that point, but decided he would walk over with the demon hunter and the monk who seemed to be more calm about the whole thing.

Julia stood there looking at both and then seemed to make some kind of decision.

"I declare this match a draw." she said in a loud voice. "We have two winners today." Or two losers Sesshoumaru mentally added. He saw no point in pointing out the split second win.

"Inu Yasha, are you okay?" asked Kagome as she knelt next him.

"What do you mean a draw? I connected way before he did," spat out Inu Yasha as he tried to prop himself up on his elbows.

"Hah! If anyone connected first it was me!" shot back the wolf, attempting to get up as well. Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed as he watched Julia kneel down next to the wolf and lay a hand on his shoulder.

"Come on you two, I'm the judge and I say it was a draw," she said in a final tone, and then added more gently, "Are you okay, Kouga? I'd hate to just get my sparring partner back only to have to lose him."

"Like anything Dog Breath did would keep me down," he retorted, but Sesshoumaru could hear a slight wince in his voice as she helped him up. He watched them, not out of any concern for the wolf or because he was not admitting the loss, but because he seemed to be clinging to Julia. It was the same feeling that had overtaken him days earlier – the same feeling that had caused him to step forward when they were too close.

Just then she looked at him, confusion on her features at first, more than likely due to his current facial expression, but then she smiled at him. However, it did nothing to stop the blood pounding in his head and, feeling overwhelmed, he turned and left without a word.

Why should he feel like that? Why? It was like a feeling that something that belonged to him was being taken away, but that was ridiculous. She did not belong to him - he had laid no claim to her. So…why?

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Julia continued to watch him go as she helped Kouga to his feet. What was that all about? He looked angry for a moment there, why? He could not have actually wanted Kouga to win…no it was something else, but what?

"At least now you know I can take you down, wimpy wolf." The taunt brought her out of her thoughts and back to the current situation. Inu Yasha was leaning on Kagome much the same way Kouga was on her.

"You'd die trying." Kouga shot back, removing his arm from around her shoulders and stepping towards Inu Yasha.

"Yeah, but who landed the first hit?" mocked Inu Yasha, also removing his arm from Kagome and stepping towards Kouga.

"You got lucky, Dog Boy." Kouga spat out, taking another step.

"Oh you wanna go again, Wolfy? I'll show you just how much skill it was." Inu Yasha retorted, also taking another step. They were almost nose to nose and neither looked like they were in any shape to fight again.

"I think that is enough for today, why don't we go get some food?" Julia suggested, popping up between them. They immediately turned their backs to each other. "Ah, come on guys, don't be such babies," she added, giving each a shove on the shoulder that resulted in them nearly falling over. Both turned and glared at her, but she merely smiled back. "See? No more fighting. Now let's go eat." She draped an arm over each and led them towards the manor. Their expressions had changed to confusion and then finally submission. These guys are just like children sometimes she thought to herself. "You guys coming?" she yelled back over her shoulder.

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"Yes," called Kagome, Julia's call having brought her out the daze she had been in. She turned to look at the other two finding that their expression mimicked her own.

"She certainly knows how to diffuse tense situations," Miroku commented with a small laugh as he started after the others towards the house.

"I never would have thought it would be that easy to calm those two down," remarked Sango, following close behind Miroku.

"I guess she knew what she was doing from the beginning," Miroku continued. "Kagome, don't worry about them, they are fine." He added as he turned back towards her clearly noticing that she had not followed them.

"Oh, I'm not," she said, catching up to them and continuing with them to the house.

She'd watched Kouga and Inu Yasha fight in utter amazement. As Miroku had said, she never had let them really go at it in the past. She just didn't want to see either of them get hurt. But, as she watched them she could see they were enjoying it. It was like it really was a game to them. She wondered if she should have let them try to kill each other sooner, but shook her head. No, she said to herself, the only reason it ended with out her having to tell Inu Yasha to sit was because Julia was there.

But now, how would they act together, could things have gotten worse? The answer to her question came when she walked into the dining room. Inu Yasha and Kouga sat there arguing about how the other fought, but there was no anger. Julia sat near them with a smile on her face, making comments in between the other two.

"He is right, Inu Yasha," Miroku said as he sat next to him, "you do drop your arm right before you attack."

"Well, at least I don't pull a punch short like this fool over here." Inu Yasha shot back, pointing to Kouga who looked put out but not upset.

"So who won?" asked Shippou as he ran in the door followed by the other kids.

"I did." Inu Yasha and Kouga shouted out in unison and promptly glared at each other. A smile finally found its way to Kagome's lips. Julia was right to let them fight. Not only did they appear to have, if anything, a mild respect for each other, but Inu Yasha seemed to be back to his old self after his little display in front of Sesshoumaru.

"Kagome, aren't you going to eat?" Shippou asked as he hopped on to her shoulder.

"Of course." she answered happily, and sat down next to Julia. Everything was going to work out just fine.

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"So you two seemed to be getting along alright last night." Julia remarked as she stretched out for their morning workout. Kouga had insisted at breakfast that he was fine so she went along with it.

"Hmph," was all he said as he too stretched. They had made quite a night of it. It was around eleven when she had glanced at her watch as she put Rin to bed. The children did not make an appearance at breakfast as they were all probably still sleeping. They had all told stories and continued to critique the fight, repeating things that had already been said. But no one really seemed to care. The kids had gone on about their day and the adventures they were having to Julia while the others were discussing other things. She was glad to see that everyone was getting along.

"It's just that I'm surprised you guys weren't arm in arm by the end of the night." she added with a sarcastic smile. He eyed her but still said nothing, "Oh come on, you're not honestly sore about it being a tie are you?" she asked, slightly irritated with his current attitude and placed her hands on her hips.

"It wasn't a tie," he said quietly, turning his eyes to her. "He really did land the punch before I did." Julia's eyebrows shot up and her mouth hung open.

"What are you talking about? We all saw it. It happened at the same time," she replied, not really wanting to believe it.

"You weren't on the receiving end." he said with a small laugh and rubbed his jaw. "I'm pretty sure that if you asked Sesshoumaru he would tell you the same thing."

"Is that why he looked upset yesterday afternoon?" she asked, thinking she had finally figured that little mystery out.

"No, that was for another reason entirely," he replied as he eyed her.

"What?" she asked. Why was he looking at her that way?

"Never mind," he answered lamely. She shot him a look that said she was not happy about being in the dark, but he only grinned at her, "I'm sure you'll figure it out eventually."

"Fine," she conceded, "but seriously, are you guys okay now?" She knew he understood to what she was referring. They had spoken of it often enough.

"I will always envy Inu Yasha for being with her, but I no longer think he does not deserve her," he answered in a low voice. "However, that does not mean I won't continue to annoy him," he added in a lighter voice with a wink and smile. "Now, are we going to stand her chatting all day, or do you want to work out before those little monsters wake up?"

"Bring it on," she said with a smile, and took her preferred stance.

She'd figure out what Kouga had been talking about regarding Sesshoumaru later. He'd been absent the entire evening and to her surprise did not come upon her while she cooled off outside her room before she'd gone to sleep. It had seemed like it was becoming a habit to talk with him before she went to sleep, but last night he had been absent. She had entertained the idea of going to find him, but honestly she did not know what she would say when she did. He really did seem slightly upset when he left the other day and she just could not fathom why.

Julia and Kouga were able to spend a little time working out together, but it wasn't long before the air was filled with the shouts of the little 'monsters' as Kouga had so lovingly dubbed them. They wanted some company today and could not be persuaded to play on their own. Shippou had apparently dragged Kagome and Inu Yasha out with them, intent on getting the two to join in the fun.

It was sunset before Julia found time for herself again. The others had all gone off to eat dinner, but she wanted to stay behind for a moment. She walked a little ways into the stand of trees and found a nice spot, though she had to admit the whole place was nice. She took a stance and began to go through some forms that Kouga had shown her. Doing so seemed to quiet her mind and help her think.

Though, that may not have been the best idea as her thoughts always seemed to drift back to Sesshoumaru. She had hoped that he would show up at some point during the day, much like he had the previous day, but he had not. Granted, he had really only shown up to get under Inu Yasha's skin, but it also seemed like he was genuinely interested in their fight.

"I guess watching the kids play is not nearly as exciting," she said to herself as she punched air. Why had he left so abruptly though? According to Kouga it had nothing to do with the fight, but he had been glaring at him, hadn't he? Or…

"Was he glaring at me?" she asked herself as she performed a round house kick. The thought caused her to feel somewhat disturbed, much like before when she had thought for a moment he might be angry with her, but for some reason it was more pronounced this time. "Argh," she growled, "this is so annoying! Why am I doing this to myself?" she asked the air as she jabbed out with her right hand. Surprisingly it met with something solid. "Sesshoumaru!"

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He had only meant to observe her, but she had seemed upset about something. He told himself he should just leave her be, but seeing her distraught made his chest tighten. So, despite his better judgment, he went to find out why.

He released her fist and with a fleeting thought missed the contact with her. Perhaps he should have just spoken, but she'd seemed so engrossed in a conversation with herself in that strange language that he did not think she would even notice if he had. He knew better than to ask about the language, but that did not stop him from wondering.

"What are you doing here?" she asked, catching her breath and rubbing her hand. He briefly wondered if it had hurt when she'd connected with his hand, but he did not think she had used that much force.

"I do live here," he replied and quirked an eyebrow at her. She stared at him for a moment with an almost blank expression and then shook her head slightly.

"Okay, maybe that wasn't the best way to phrase that question," she said with her usual sarcasm. "I just wondered what brought you out here," she pointed to the spot where she stood, "now." she added while pointing to her wrist, though he still did not understand the importance of the bracelet she wore.

"Is my being here odd?" he asked, though more to stall since he really did not want to admit the real reason that brought him to her.

"Well," she paused, cocked her head to one side in a gesture that gave her a very childlike appearance, "it is just that you seemed kind of upset yesterday," she finished with a shrug. Gods, have I really become that transparent in her eyes?

"You must have been mistaken," he replied in his usual tone. "I simply have other matters that require my attention. I do not have to explain my comings and goings." She gave him the look she normally wore when she was about to give him a good tongue lashing, but then it suddenly changed into an amused smile.

"You're right," she agreed, and nodded her head slightly. Sesshoumaru almost choked in surprise. "I was probably just reading too much into something." He kept his mask intact, but he could not help but wonder what it was that she was thinking about. She had given up on that way too easily. "So, has there been any news about Naraku?" She crossed her arms over her chest and began to walk back towards the castle.

"No," he answered as he fell into step beside her. Odd, how it felt almost natural to do so. "I have my sources looking, but there is still nothing. It looks like he is being more careful than the last time." He smiled inwardly at his quick discovery of Naraku's previous hideout. But, it had been the carelessness of Naraku's lackey that had led him there. This time would not be as easy.

They walked in an easy silence a little ways and Sesshoumaru would have continued with Julia to the castle, but he suddenly became aware of someone watching them. He could have ignored it and just continued on, however he knew that this had to be taken care of at some point. There was no reason to delay it. He slowly came to a stop which caused Julia to pause and turn back to him.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

"Nothing, I'm just not going in yet. Enjoy your meal," he said, and then turned back towards the trees before she could ask anything more. Without turning his head, he could tell that she had continued on inside. He momentarily worried that she might think him rude, but then realized that he shouldn't care.

"Gotta tell ya, big brother," the voice began as he approached the trees, "I never thought I'd see that." Inu Yasha stepped around a tree, into view, and then leaned against it, crossing his arms over his chest.

"And what would that be, little brother?" Sesshoumaru asked, emphasizing the 'little brother' as acidly as Inu Yasha had his endearment. Inu Yasha did not voice his answer - he only nodded his head towards the house. Sesshoumaru turned his head in time to see Julia disappear down the hallway towards the dinning room. He had assumed that was what Inu Yasha was referring to.

"When did it change?" asked Inu Yasha. Sesshoumaru slowly turned back to his brother. He could see a deep hurt in his eyes. Inu Yasha never had been good at masking his emotions. "When did it become okay to like humans?"

"What makes you think I like them?" he asked, narrowing his eyes. He then tried to deny to himself that he did not like them, but images of Rin and Julia smiling at him flashed into his head. Inu Yasha only stared at him with those same eyes, those damn searching eyes.

"This from the demon who would kill a human without the slightest hesitation for just looking at him the wrong way," the half-demon smirked. "I've seen the way Julia treats you and yet, she still lives." Sesshoumaru glared at him, but he could not respond. He himself had questioned this change on almost a daily basis, but what really had caused the change? Was it Rin with her gap-tooth smile all those months ago, or was it something else? He turned his gaze away from Inu Yasha and walked a little ways past him.

"I do not have to explain my actions to you," he replied finally, without turning back to look at Inu Yasha.

"Keh, you'll never change." Inu Yasha responded as he began to walk away. "We'll do this, Sesshoumaru, but make no mistake - when it's all said and done, we'll ALL be out of your life and I expect you to stay out of mine." Sesshoumaru stood where he was, staring blankly out at the horizon.

There was no mistake. Inu Yasha was implying that not only would he and his friends leave, but that Julia would be leaving with them. He had not come right out and said it, but Sesshoumaru understood what was left unspoken. Inu Yasha had obviously expected that fact to get to him, but what did it matter to Sesshoumaru? They were only humans, after all, and he had thought about them leaving often enough, but then why did 'We'll ALL be out of your life' continued to echo in his head?

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Julia sat comfortably in the hot water, eyes shut and enjoying the relief the heat was giving to her much abused muscles. Sure she had worked out before, but not everyday from sunup to sundown. Hey, at least I'm having fun she thought as she smiled to herself.

"What are you grinning at?" asked one of her companions. Sango and Kagome had followed her to the bath after dinner.

"What?" she asked and cracked one eye open to look at Kagome.

"You're over there grinning away, you must be thinking about something good," explained Kagome.

"Probably about a certain demon lord," Sango piped in, causing Julia's eyes to shoot open.

"Excuse me?" she asked back, trying to play it cool, but she was sure her surprised expression was not helping matters.

"You always seem to be smiling when you're around him," Kagome added, clearly interested in the topic.

"A smile does not imply anything more than friendship," Julia responded, taking on an 'older sister' type of tone. "Besides, I always smile when I'm around all of you guys," she continued, eyeing them both. Though their faces looked the picture of innocence she could see their devious little minds at work. It was table-turning time. "But shouldn't you girls be worrying about your own relationships before making one up for me?" Both girls turned shocked faces at her a blush creeping through their already red faces. "However, if you must know, I was only thinking about how much fun I have been having with you guys."

"Even with the demon attacks?" asked Kagome clearly glad for a topic change.

"Uh huh," she said nodding her head, "even with the demon attacks."

"I have to say that I am glad you came to us, Julia." Sango added a moment later, "If you had not I might not have my brother back with me now." Julia only bowed her head slightly. She never really had been good with compliments.

"He seems to be having fun playing with the others, too," commented Kagome.

"I've noticed that he sort of acts like a guard for the younger two kids." Julia remarked. "He seems to be really intent on being a protector for Rin and Shippou." Sango nodded.

"I think having those two around for him has been a great help in letting him work through what Naraku made him do. I know he still dwells on it, but I hope everyday that he will somehow come to terms with it and move on." Sango spoke in a slightly hushed voice.

"Yes, I think taking on a responsible role like that will definitely help." Julia added. "I just wish we had a better way of keeping Inu Yasha and Kouga distracted than letting them go at it every other day. Did you see them almost get in it today during tag?" Kagome and Sango both nodded and laughed a little.

"I think we all could use a little distraction." Sango said. "Even Miroku is starting to get a little apprehensive about the upcoming battle with Naraku."

"Me, too," Kagome admitted, "but not so much for the actual fight, but what happens afterwards."

"Why is that?" asked Julia.

"Well if we…when we win, the jewel will be complete and that means…" Kagome's voice went so low Julia could not pick up that last bit, but she had some idea what she was getting at. A completed jewel would mean her reason for being in the past would be over. And, if Julia remembered correctly, Inu Yasha had claims on the wish that the jewel would supposedly grant. A wish that Kagome had told Julia she hoped he'd never make. This whole place is going to start getting very depressing in the next couple of days.

"I have an idea," Julia suddenly said as a plan formed in her head, "but I have to make sure it's possible." She quickly got out of the springs and walked towards the little washroom.

"What idea?" she heard Kagome call from behind the opaque screen that separated the room from the springs.

"I'll tell you later if it is possible." Julia called as she threw on a robe and went off to find the one person she knew would be able to help her.

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Sesshoumaru walked down the hall. Inu Yasha, Kouga and the monk were still in the dining room playing some sort of game with their hands. But he was not in the area long enough to figure out what it was. He was not sure where the girls were, and he assumed the children were all in bed. Not because it was late, but merely because it was quiet.

He had planned to go straight to his room, but his feet seemed to walk by his door almost of their own accord. He found himself standing in front of the door to his father's shrine room. He couldn't remember the last time he had actually been in there, but it was not because he had been avoiding it…not really.

He slid the door open and slowly stepped in, sliding the door closed behind him. He stared at the mural of his father on the back wall. He remembered thinking when he was younger that his father was the one leading the demon attack on the human village, but in reality he knew that was not the case. His father had harbored no ill will towards the humans. He was, in fact, their protector.

Sesshoumaru looked down at his restored arm. Compassion for others had been the key to its restoration. But, why should he care about those weaker than himself? They could do nothing for him, so what was the point?

"I don't understand," he whispered to himself. But any further thought was cut off by a very familiar voice coming from down the hall.

"Do you think we can do it?" Julia asked.

"I think it can be arranged." Sesshoumaru recognized the replying voice as Wakana's. "We have not had such an event in a very long time." He could hear a smile in her voice. What was Julia planning?

"I just think that everyone needs something to take their minds off of their current dilemmas. They all try to put on a good face for everyone else, but they are all hurting in some way or another." Julia's voice sounded almost…sad.

"I see that, too," responded the old demoness.

"Are sure you don't mind? I know this is really short notice and all." Sesshoumaru could hear the sincerity in Julia's voice. "I could help if you want me to."

"Nonsense," Wakana chided, "you just leave everything to me."

What were they planning and why had he not been consulted first? He should be able to make the decisions in his castle, after all, though if Julia was going to find anyone to help her in her plans, Wakana was definitely the right person to go to. Wakana had probably been around the longest of any of his servants and the others would all listen to her without question.

"Thank you, Wakana. I know this is going to be great." The joy in Julia's voice was evident, a feeling that for some reason caused him to smile inwardly. The pair said good night at her room and he heard Wakana hurry off to accomplish whatever it was that they were concocting.

He thought back to the unanswered question he had been thinking about before they had walked by. Though somehow he thought that maybe it had just been answered. Julia spoke as though she did not have any problems of her own, but he knew that was not the truth. She was far from her home, in an unknown place, with an unknown amount of danger ahead of her, and yet she was worrying about everyone else. Perhaps there is something in humanity worth protecting he thought as he eyed his father's portrait again.

"But, I am not you," he said, once more in hushed tones. Protection was one thing, but there could be nothing more. He turned and quietly left the room. He would not succumb to the same weakness his father had.

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A/N: So this was a little longer than some of the other chapters…hope you don't mind ;p

You know Kouga and Inu Yasha had to go at it at some point. Hope the actions scenes weren't too much. Also, I wouldn't really say Sesshoumaru is in denial at this point he just thinks he knows what is best…but that will change…oh yes, that will change. :D

Oh, and Nightfox, regarding Kouga…maaaaybeeee, we'll just have to see now won't we ;D

Updates will be soon, I promise. Okay, now I'll ask for reviews, let me know what you think.