Welps- Im not going to make it too lemony...maybe just a little hot, with enough detail to let you know whats going on- besides that, its going to be kawaii & romantic as possible...anyways- I'm glad you liked the last chappy- this one is going to be alot of kawaii waffy-fluff and funny moments. Here goes- ENJOY!
Chapter 36
As Kagome began to wake the next morning in Inuyasha's arms, she vaguely went over the strange events that had happened while she was 'out of it'. It was definately wierd to think about- it was like being someone entirely different, someone who had no idea who Kagome was-as though they had never met. A few things came to mind. 'What was that strange glowing light that brought back some of my memories...and what was so important around my neck- ...' Her fingers went to her neck as it had many times before, but now it hit her instantly. 'THE SHIKON NO TAMA!'
Kagome pulled herself out of bed frantically. 'Where is it?! I haven't seen it since before- ' She turned around- looking at Inuyasha curiously a moment, then pushing his haori aside to find the glowing jewel hanging from his neck protectively. She smirked slightly. 'No wonder my memories flooded back so readily- the Shikon jewel must have given Inuyasha the power to mend my memories...but that still doesn't explain that light...'
Inuyasha flinched slightly, taking a deep breath as the morning sun brightened the room slightly and Kagome's sweet scent filled his nose. She crawled back into the bed as Inuyasha roused, feeling her hands on his chest gently- he opened his honey hues to stare at her. She smiled up at him apologetically. "Did I wake you?" He yawned slightly as she settled her head to rest in the crook of his neck, his arms folding comfortably around her petite form. "We'll have to get up soon anyway...Everyone will have to know about your recovery..."
She smiled slightly, knowing Shippo and the others would be as thrilled as she was to have her memories returned. "Kagome..." "Hmmm?" "How did you get your memories back? It all seems like a faint dream- you came runnning back here, and before I knew it- you remembered..." She thought back tiredly. "I don't really know...I guess they were just triggered..." Inuyasha sighed, making a humming noise in his chest that comforted Kagome, though she had to fight against it and raise herself up, taking Inuyasha's hand and pulling him up as well. "We might as well get up now, or we might fall back asleep..." She laughed slightly as she watched the hanyou blink, smirking slightly and leaving the hut reluctantly to let her dress.
She picked out a pale baby blue kimono made of silk that simply flowed- the sleeves were long and drapping, as was the bottom of the kimono, which reached to just above her knees. It was pulled tight across the shoulders and down to the waist, where it flowed out like a short skirt. She brushed her ebony silk hair- deciding she would need a bath later on. Finally, she left the hut- greeted by Shippo running from Sango's hut with a happy smile. "MAMA! YOU REMEMBER!" She pulled him tightly into her hug when he jumped into her arms. "Hai Shippo- and I'm sorry I ever forgot..." Inuyasha and the others came out after Shippo, and Sango and Miroku had the same reaction as Inuyasha watched from the background with a contented look.
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Later on, Inuyasha had managed to slip away from the village and enter the forest- finding a spot in his favorite sacred tree to lounge in his thoughts. 'What will I do now? ...She knows how I feel about her...but I have to tell her- I want her- for me and only me...forever...but- ' His thoughts were interrupted by the sweet and humble voice of Kagome, her soft humms slipping through the air as she walked down the path. He had heard the song before- she had often sung it while going about chores, but she immediately stopped the tune and greeted him when he came into sight.
"Well, well Inuyasha...I figured you might be out here somewhere..." He looked down at her with his soft ember hues as she stared at him with her innocent expression. "So what did Kaede say? Is she sure you're alright now?" Kagome rolled her eyes at the hanyou's annoyed yet concerned tone- smiling at his attempt to conceal himself. "I'm just fine...Kaede gave me a full check-up...she says I should have few, if any side-effects..." Inuyasha jumped from the tree, walking up to her form and placing a finger on the small bandage under her hairline, brushing her bangs aside gently.
"And what about this?" Her head tilted away- a slight blush from his close contact and geniune concern. "It's fine...just a scratch..." Her fingers fidgeted a moment, then went up to clench her necklace from habit- only to remember there was nothing there. Her eyes returned to Inuyasha as she traced the empty space. "Inuyasha...you have the Shikon jewel...right?" She had already seen it, so she knew his answer. "Maybe...why?" He looked at her curiously with a playful expression, she grinned- biting her lip slightly. "Well give it back...I am responsible for it ya know..." She nudged his arm teasingly as he pulled it from aorund his neck and dangled it before her.
"GOTTA CATCH ME FIRST!" He playfully yelled as he backed away and began heading into the forest. Kagome laughed slightly, rolling her eyes with an annoyed look. "I can't believe him... INUYASHA! YOU BAKA!" She immediately took off in his direction, running quickly down the path after the hanyou. Inuyasha, however, had run a good distance ahead and jumped into a tree- watching as she slowed down near him and looked around confusingly. "Now where did he get off to? Idiot..." She shook her head with a sigh- giving the signal to Inuyasha to jumped down silently and sneak up behind her.
He quietly creeped up behind her, touching her shoulder and watched as she jumped with a slight scream- turning around to watch him laugh with a large grin. "BAKA! YOU KNOW HOW CLOSE I CAME TO JUST PURIFYING YOU!?" She rolled her eyes- then gained a smug smirk on her lips. "Sit boy..." She sang out playfully- watching the hanyou's form kiss the dirt. She let out a small laugh, grabbing the jewel from his hand and stepping over his motionless figure- darting off to the woods. "Looks like I win!"
Inuyasha immediately jumped to his feet, taking off after her at a quick pace- wiping the smudges of dirt from his cheek. "GET BACK HERE KAGOME! You'll pay for that!" He huffed out with a small growl as he flew through the forest. "I don't think so..." She laughed, exiting the forest and coming to the training fields, picking up her sword and turning to a fighting stance- awaiting the hanyou's appearance with glittering eyes.
By now their voices had echoed through the entire forest, scaring every bird from every tree for miles. Inuyasha finally broke the tree line and saw Kagome facing him, as though she was going to attack. "Kagome...what are you doing...." He let his voice trail slightly with confusion. "C'mon Inuyasha...if I can take your brother- I can most certainly fend you off...it'll just be a friendly match..." She smirked confidently, never breaking her form. He let out one of his confident huffs, baring his fangs in a grin as his hand pulled Tetsusiaga from its shiisu. "Well then, let's just see about that...Sesshomaru is one thing- I'm completely different..."
Kagome bit her lip, awaiting Inuyasha to charge at her like he always did- and sure enough, he ran toward her with his sword above his head. She never took her eyes off him, waiting for the correct moment and lunging up at him, purposely thrusting her blade against his with a distinct clashing sound of metal. She had yet to let any of her miko energy flow into the sword- she would rather Tetsusiaga stay transformed for most of their sparing match- that way Inuyasha would at least have a chance. Her grin dripped with anticipation for his next move- her eyes, her entire body seemed to glow with pure excitement for battle. She wasn't as strong as Inuyasha, but she managed to push him back, to his suprise. He was forced to step back, regaining his posture and smiling compliments at his opponent.
"Not bad Kagome..." She nodded a thank you as she stared him down. "But are you sure you're up for this? I mean- you should probly be resting or something..." She bit her lip back slightly, sizing up her next counter attack. "Well Inuyasha- I feel fine, besides....its not me you should be worrying about..." She charged him slighty, pushing off her right foot forcefully and letting her blade bite into his- finally releasing a small amount of her purifying energy into the sword- making the air around them spark momentarily and her blade glow with its intense blue aura. Inuyasha watched helplessly as his sword was transformed back into a useless blade. Kagome slid her sword in a circle against Inuyasha until it was broken free of what seemed like an entanglement. She smoothly placed it back into his sheath, smiling over at Inuyasha proudly.
He huffed slightly, putting his sword away and placing his hands in his sleeves. Kagome looked him over a minute quietly with a small satisfying grin. Inuyasha looked into her deep brown hues curiously as she looked him over. "What? Why do you keep looking at me that way?" She shrugged, turning toward the village and calling back over her shoulder. "C'mon Inuyasha- lets go get something to eat..." Inuyasha smiled inwardly for a moment as she walked away, then quickly broke the moment and ran to catch up to her side.
Everyone sat in a circle in Kaede's hut- talking cheerfully in the pleasant atmosphere as they finished dinner. Sango and Miroku goofed around a little- teasing each other until Sango heard the baby crying from the next room. When she returned with the calmed infant nestled in her arms, Inuyasha was already picking on Shippo annoyingly. Inuyasha and Shippo argued pesteringly as Sango played with the baby- watching her son try to walk as Kirara mewed from Kohaku's lap. Kagome took in the entire scene- inch by inch, not wanting the moments to be taken for granted. She smiled softly, talking with Sango in small conversation as they laughed at Inuyasha and Shippo and the young Kasaku who was trying his best to make his small legs work properly.
Kagome picked herself up, dusting off the flowing outfit lightly and announcing that she was leaving for the hot springs. "I'll go with you if you like..." Sango offered as her eyes tended to the small child playing with Shippo. "That's alright Sango- I'll be fine..." She smiled as she eased toward the doorway slowly. "Well at least take Kirara in case something happens..." Kohaku offered generously- making the small neko youkai jumped from his arms and follow Kagome's figure. "Alright- I'll see you guys later tonight..." They both then disappeared through the doorway at once.
Kagome sighed deeply once she was walking from the village toward the forest hotsprings. Kirara had jumped to her shoulder, purring slightly near her ear for a few moments as Kagome thought aloud quietly without really realizing. "Is this really my life now? ...I dreamed of how it would be for such a long time...having my best friends by my side- watching them spend their lives together happily...slaying demons and protecting the village...but...isn't there something else...I want more- I know I do...because I've dreamed of that too..." Again she sighed, noticing that her walk was nearly ending as the air filled with a misty smoke from the heated springs- stiffling her breathes with humidity. She pushed a few green branches and ferns aside, taking in the familiar sight of the glassy water before her.
She quickly undressed, a chill running up her spine as she layed her blue silk dress on a dry branch and slipped into the comforting waters. The warmth surrounding her instantly as she waded in to the deep depths, letting it engulf her from the shoulders down. She turned- her brown hues searching for Kirara- finally spotting her falling asleep atop a dry rock contently. She smiled, leaning back against a large boulder to relax- a small waterfall of fresh water streaming into the heated pool nearby made ripples stretch out endlessly before her. -----
Moments after Kagome had left- topics changed and Inuyasha acted as though he were tired, then made his excuse and slipped from the hut. No one said anything- but they all thought it suspicious that he would suddenly leave right after Kagome- and Miroku couldn't stop smiling at Sango with his hentai looks. Sango smirked, hitting him slightly with a playful tone- trying to scold him for such thoughts that she herself couldn't help but think. A few moments later, Sango put Kasaku and Shippo to bed in their room and returned to Miroku by the fire. "What? Why are you looking at me like that?" She questioned as she sat down- the monk looking at her curiously with a small smile. "You and I both know what Inuyasha and Kagome are doing...they've been sneaking around just like you and I did before we were married...." Sango blushed slightly- trying to stiffle her giggles at the thought of Inuyasha and Kagome. "Do you really think they are together? ...I mean, we didn't manage to keep it a secret for too long when we were together- but what makes you think they are?"
Miroku smirked. "I just know...its that look in Kagome's eyes when she glances at Inuyasha- or the tone in Inuyasha's voice when he talks about Kagome...its the same way the both of us were..." Sango smiled as Miroku gently folded his arms around her, she looked back at him- placing a chaste kiss on his lips. "I remember when I first realized I was in love with you...." Miroku listened contently, recollecting the times just after Inuyasha had died, holding Sango tightly in his lap. "I was so torn up over Inuyasha's death and my brother's disappearance that I didn't think I was going to make it at times- but you always made me feel better....and everytime I was with you- things didn't seem quite so bad...that night- when Kagome ran off to see Totosai...that was the best thing that ever happened to me...you were the best thing that ever happened to me...." Miroku sighed lightly. "Sango dear- I couldn't have asked for anyone more perfect..."
They both cuddled by the fire for a few moments longer- remembering their life together in a content happiness, then finally leaving for bed.
--Flashback--
Miroku and Sango, as well as Shippo and Kaede had ben worried for several hours now over Kagome's safety. She had left with Kirara- telling them she was going to see Totosai on an important matter. Everyone, especially Sango, had been concerned for Kagome since the day she woke up to find Inuyasha dead. Since then she had become someone entirely different. They watched as she tortured herself in rigorous training day after day- going after strong demons recklessly only to get herself injured in pursuit of jewel shards and any sort of satisfaction. She was cold and rigid now- most times showing a heartlessness towards her friends that they had never imagined Kagome was capable of.
Miroku had often took up for Sango, comforting her when he found her crying over the difficult search for her brother, or Inuyasha's absence. That night- Sango had left Kaede's hut to visit Inuyasha's grave. When Miroku asked about her- he decided to follow and see if she were alright. He came upon Sango's figure, doubled over the gravesite, crying angrily and cursing the hanyou for leaving Kagome in such condition. He frowned, stepping into the clearing with concern. "It was not fault...Inuyasha had no choice whether to liver die..."
Sango dried her tears as she picked herself up from the ground. "Miroku...what are you doing out here?" Miroku blushed slightly. "I...was concerned- I just came to make sure you were alright..." He slightly stumbled over his words as Sango softened her expression into smile. "Thank you Miroku....you've been so kind to me...." Miroku sighed with a small smile. "It's quite alright Sango...now why don't we go back and have something eat...." Sango shook her head as her glassy eyes stared toward the ground. "I need to find my brother...I have not seen him in so long...and I-" Sango's words trailed off as her steps failed her- she weakly lost her footing and before she knew it, Miroku had reached out and caught her in his arms.
She smiled weakly into his concerned eyes as he lifted her frail figure in his strong embrace. "I promise you Sango- we will find Kohaku, but now we must care for you- I have noticed you haven't eaten much lately...so let's go back and have a warm meal and you can rest a while..." Sango looked up with a small nod, snuggling closer to Miroku as he looked down at her suprisingly. Sango was suprised at how much Miroku cared for her, and even more surprised at how much she cared for him in return. "Miroku..." Miroku entered the hut quietly to see that Kaede had left their food out a gone to bed. "Yes Sango?" She held tightly to his robes as he sat near the fading fire. "Don't let go of me yet...stay with me..." He smiled down at her quietly. "I wouldn't dream of it..." He folded his arms around her gently as she began to fall asleep.
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At the moment, Inuyasha was on his way through the forest- letting his feet take him where they pleased as his mind wandered over several different topics- the main one being Kagome. The night air swept his silvery locks in a flowing fashion behind him, as though it were a silk sheet as he cut through the dark shadows of the forest. His ember eyes took in his path silently- noticing his reduced visibility due to the small sliver of moonlight left. He knew his night was coming- the new moon would be here and cursed the night for coming so soon. The cycles of the moon weren't nearly long enough to satisfy him- and if he were full demon he wouldn't need to worry about such things, but he couldn't bear to think of himself as such- after seeing th horrible things he did when his demon blood was released- he wouldn't willingly risk becoming that monster permanently. He had taken Miroku's words to heart- if he were to become full demon by the Shikon jewel, there would be no way to determine if he would even be himself, or if he would retain his memories- but most of all- he was afraid of not loving Kagome...he couldn't live without her- at least not happily- and if he hurt her in anyway, he couldn't bare the thought.
He finally slowed to a stop by the river, walking over and kneeling by the running stream- cupping his hand and bringing the clear, cold liquid to his lips- sipping it up gently to refresh himself- then wiping it away with his sleeve. He continued again- this time in another direction, this way seemingly more promising since Kagome's sweet scent was carried in the air. He followed quickly at first- unaware of why he was going, he just wanted to be near her- being without her, for even a short while- made him feel empty and yet, filled with countless human emotions. As her scent grew stronger- he realized what he was getting himself into- Kagome would probably think he was coming to peek on her in the hot springs, yet he continued catiously.
The musty smell of water vapor and flowers filled the air like a bittersweet perfume to Inuyasha's sensitive nose- Kagome's fragile scent was almost irrestible, surrounded by the tender dosages of heat. Before the hanyou took another misguided step toward the intoxicating aromas- he was greeted by Kirara's small form jumping from the bushes, followed by Kagome's voice. "Kirara?! What's wrong- ...." Her words lingered on her lips as they trailed softly- her wet figure wrapped in a towel that she held up loosely with one hand. Her ebony locks shimmered with dripping spring water as it hung in heavy laces around her face and down her bare back. Inuyasha blushed slighty- Kagome's scent, her dripping wet body- it was almost too hard to control his emotions.
Kagome herself was a little embarrassed- her cheeks turned a tender shade of cherry as she spoke softly in a wavering voice. "ano....Inu..yasha...er- What are you doing out here?" He swallowed slightly to regain his voice. "I just- umm... came out for a walk..." His ember hues diverted from her cautiously as she smiled slightly. "Alright...well- Kirara- I guess you can just go back to the village now...Inuyasha can walk me back..." She gestured and the little neko youkai was off into he forest- then her soft brown hues returned to Inuyasha. "Let me just get changed...be right back..." Inuyasha didn't bother to look up- nodding his head slightly as he waited for Kagome to return.
He waited a several moments, then got a bit anxious. "Kagome? Are you coming or not? Kagome?!" His voice had regained its rough annoyance and trademark charm as he called to a silent spring. "If you don't answer I'm coming after you!" He mumbled a few incomprehensible things under his breathe as his impatience grew- finally rolling his eyes and heading to the spring. "Kagome! Whats going on? Why is it taking so long?!" The end of Inuyasha's words fell with confusion as he searched the empty spring. "Kagome?" He looked around in search of her, his ears twitching a moment, then spinning around on a heel instantly to pin a figure to the nearest tree. He looked down annoyingly- his ember hues burning into her own chocolate ones.
"Boo..." She smiled slightly as he huffed, rolling his eyes. Her hair was still dripping wet, but now she had changed back into her baby blue kimono of silk- the shoulders soaked from her ebony laces laying across them and drenching them. "Are you ready to go back to the village?" She sighed slightly. "I suppose- but you'll have to let go of me first...." She tried nudging his strong figure back, but he only pinned her closer to tree, making it more difficult to move. She looked up at him with confusion. "Inuyasha- let go- what are you doing..." Her hands were pressed firmly against his chest, but he refused to move. "Who said I was going to let go? You're mine now..." He leaned closer, taking her lips with little force- at first she resisted with confusion, but eventually eased into the kiss, her hands tracing up around his neck comfortably as his arms slipped around her waist, pulling her tighter- pressing her back against the tree gently.
Finally, when oxygen became an issue- they broke away reluctantly, Inuyasha's forehead pressed against Kagome's gently as they both took in small gasps of air. Kagome could feel Inuyasha's hot breath on her face- warmly caressing her blushing cheeks. When she finally spoke- her voice was small and hushed under her pants of breath, as though the woods required whispers. "We should get back to the village- before anyone misses us..." Inuyasha agreed with a small nod, pushing back off the tree to stand fully upright- his eyes burning into her. She smiled caringly, putting her hand in his- their fingers lacing together as if it were natural, then beginning to walk back through the dark haze to the fields that lead to the small village.
During the partially silent walk, Kagome tried to hold back small fits of giggles in vain as Inuyasha looked down at her curiously. "What?" She looked up with a wide smile, still giggling under her breath. "I can't believe you pinned me to the tree like that....and I can't believe that you just happened to be on a walk either...." She looked at him curiously. "Yea- well- I- ....Its a free forest- I can walk where I want to ya know! And besides- I can't believe you would think you could sneak up on a demon..." He rolled his eyes annoyingly as Kagome laughed slightly at his defensive behavior.
They exited the forest and came out into one of the many large fields behind the village. They looked up at the magnificent night sky- filled with stars that scattered about the dark velvety blanket. Kagome smiled- looking back at Inuyasha with an eye roll to match his own. "What now?" He protested slightly. "You're such a baka sometimes Inuyasha..." She walked ahead of the confused hanyou playfully as he gained a sly smile on his lips. "Oh really?" He raised a brow as Kagome looked back at him over her shoulder.
In the next moment Inuyasha rushed over and began tickling Kagome, finally tackling her to her knees in the field as she burst out in fits of laughter and pleeing for mercy. "Inuyasha- ...Stop it!.... Inuyasha! S- --" She was laughing so hard it was getting hard to catch her breath, so finally barrel-rolled him, so she was on top- stratteling the hanyou between her knees as she sat on top of the still- and now blushing- Inuyasha. She calmed her excited laughter down a bit as she looked down at the hanyou's pure golden orbs- which tried to seem as though they were interested in the sky-rather than the young girl sitting on top of him. She smiled, moving forward and pushing the silver locks from his face- forcing his eyes to return to her soft brown hues.
Inuyasha felt a little uncomfortable in this position- making his heart race faster and his tempature rise. Finally- he couldn't take it anymore- he simply took hold of her waist and again flipped their positions- so now Kagome layed with her back on the ground and he layed next to her, his arms on either side of her body. She looked up at him as soon as the confusion wore off- both fading into a trance as they inched closer. "Inuyasha- I- ...I-" Inuyasha read her mind as soon as he heard her soft and quiet words- quieting her voice with his lips for a moment, then pulling away from the short, breathless kiss. "I know...I love you too..." With that whisper, they purged thier desire to kiss one another- deepening their kisses with each passing moment. Kagome's hands tracing up to play with Inuyasha's silver locks- the sheer length of which was pouring over their bodies and melting with Kagome's- which was fully dry & sprawled out like black silk- flowing in every direction beneath them.
By the time they were going to go back to the village, hours had passed and Kagome had fallen asleep on Inuyasha's chest- both looking up at the night sky in the middle of the tall grassy field. He pulled his one hand from beneath his head lazily to meet his other- which was curved around Kagome's body gently. He got to his feet, pulling her up in his arms- and instead of walking the entire way back to the village, he simply settled in a tree nearby- resting on the lowest, thick branch- his back supported by the trunk with Kagome in his lap- wrapped up in his red haori and laying against his chest- his arms folded around her gently.
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Welps, that was fluffy...sorry about the long wait- I just had a few days where I didn't get to work on the ending so it probly could have been up sooner- but I wanted there to be more to it. Anyways- we will have more fluffiness in the future...then some major changes...You'll see! As for lemnoy/lime- well I've decided to keep it within a PG-13 range- for the most part- but I'm changing the rating to R, just to be safe and there won't be too much lemon- I'm not sure I could even write it that way and still be sane- I tend to burst out into fits of giggles when I read stuff like that.And did you like the Sango/Miroku thing? I figure it would be cute to give you guys at least an idea of what happened between them- there is actually a really kawaii story behind it, but it just got left out along the way- so if I did eventually tell it, it would be in flashback. -Hope you enjoyed it- R&R!
ano- er, ummm
Yamauba- mountain witch
Ageku- Finally
Kogatana- small knife(in this case it was a small knife Kagome kept secretly strapped to her ankle for easy access- kinda like Sango's many concealed weapons in her uniform)
Haimu- home
shiisu- sword sheath
Matte- wait
Gomen nasai- I'm sorry; my apologies
Kijo- demoness; she-devil; witch
Un- Yeah
Chapter 36
As Kagome began to wake the next morning in Inuyasha's arms, she vaguely went over the strange events that had happened while she was 'out of it'. It was definately wierd to think about- it was like being someone entirely different, someone who had no idea who Kagome was-as though they had never met. A few things came to mind. 'What was that strange glowing light that brought back some of my memories...and what was so important around my neck- ...' Her fingers went to her neck as it had many times before, but now it hit her instantly. 'THE SHIKON NO TAMA!'
Kagome pulled herself out of bed frantically. 'Where is it?! I haven't seen it since before- ' She turned around- looking at Inuyasha curiously a moment, then pushing his haori aside to find the glowing jewel hanging from his neck protectively. She smirked slightly. 'No wonder my memories flooded back so readily- the Shikon jewel must have given Inuyasha the power to mend my memories...but that still doesn't explain that light...'
Inuyasha flinched slightly, taking a deep breath as the morning sun brightened the room slightly and Kagome's sweet scent filled his nose. She crawled back into the bed as Inuyasha roused, feeling her hands on his chest gently- he opened his honey hues to stare at her. She smiled up at him apologetically. "Did I wake you?" He yawned slightly as she settled her head to rest in the crook of his neck, his arms folding comfortably around her petite form. "We'll have to get up soon anyway...Everyone will have to know about your recovery..."
She smiled slightly, knowing Shippo and the others would be as thrilled as she was to have her memories returned. "Kagome..." "Hmmm?" "How did you get your memories back? It all seems like a faint dream- you came runnning back here, and before I knew it- you remembered..." She thought back tiredly. "I don't really know...I guess they were just triggered..." Inuyasha sighed, making a humming noise in his chest that comforted Kagome, though she had to fight against it and raise herself up, taking Inuyasha's hand and pulling him up as well. "We might as well get up now, or we might fall back asleep..." She laughed slightly as she watched the hanyou blink, smirking slightly and leaving the hut reluctantly to let her dress.
She picked out a pale baby blue kimono made of silk that simply flowed- the sleeves were long and drapping, as was the bottom of the kimono, which reached to just above her knees. It was pulled tight across the shoulders and down to the waist, where it flowed out like a short skirt. She brushed her ebony silk hair- deciding she would need a bath later on. Finally, she left the hut- greeted by Shippo running from Sango's hut with a happy smile. "MAMA! YOU REMEMBER!" She pulled him tightly into her hug when he jumped into her arms. "Hai Shippo- and I'm sorry I ever forgot..." Inuyasha and the others came out after Shippo, and Sango and Miroku had the same reaction as Inuyasha watched from the background with a contented look.
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Later on, Inuyasha had managed to slip away from the village and enter the forest- finding a spot in his favorite sacred tree to lounge in his thoughts. 'What will I do now? ...She knows how I feel about her...but I have to tell her- I want her- for me and only me...forever...but- ' His thoughts were interrupted by the sweet and humble voice of Kagome, her soft humms slipping through the air as she walked down the path. He had heard the song before- she had often sung it while going about chores, but she immediately stopped the tune and greeted him when he came into sight.
"Well, well Inuyasha...I figured you might be out here somewhere..." He looked down at her with his soft ember hues as she stared at him with her innocent expression. "So what did Kaede say? Is she sure you're alright now?" Kagome rolled her eyes at the hanyou's annoyed yet concerned tone- smiling at his attempt to conceal himself. "I'm just fine...Kaede gave me a full check-up...she says I should have few, if any side-effects..." Inuyasha jumped from the tree, walking up to her form and placing a finger on the small bandage under her hairline, brushing her bangs aside gently.
"And what about this?" Her head tilted away- a slight blush from his close contact and geniune concern. "It's fine...just a scratch..." Her fingers fidgeted a moment, then went up to clench her necklace from habit- only to remember there was nothing there. Her eyes returned to Inuyasha as she traced the empty space. "Inuyasha...you have the Shikon jewel...right?" She had already seen it, so she knew his answer. "Maybe...why?" He looked at her curiously with a playful expression, she grinned- biting her lip slightly. "Well give it back...I am responsible for it ya know..." She nudged his arm teasingly as he pulled it from aorund his neck and dangled it before her.
"GOTTA CATCH ME FIRST!" He playfully yelled as he backed away and began heading into the forest. Kagome laughed slightly, rolling her eyes with an annoyed look. "I can't believe him... INUYASHA! YOU BAKA!" She immediately took off in his direction, running quickly down the path after the hanyou. Inuyasha, however, had run a good distance ahead and jumped into a tree- watching as she slowed down near him and looked around confusingly. "Now where did he get off to? Idiot..." She shook her head with a sigh- giving the signal to Inuyasha to jumped down silently and sneak up behind her.
He quietly creeped up behind her, touching her shoulder and watched as she jumped with a slight scream- turning around to watch him laugh with a large grin. "BAKA! YOU KNOW HOW CLOSE I CAME TO JUST PURIFYING YOU!?" She rolled her eyes- then gained a smug smirk on her lips. "Sit boy..." She sang out playfully- watching the hanyou's form kiss the dirt. She let out a small laugh, grabbing the jewel from his hand and stepping over his motionless figure- darting off to the woods. "Looks like I win!"
Inuyasha immediately jumped to his feet, taking off after her at a quick pace- wiping the smudges of dirt from his cheek. "GET BACK HERE KAGOME! You'll pay for that!" He huffed out with a small growl as he flew through the forest. "I don't think so..." She laughed, exiting the forest and coming to the training fields, picking up her sword and turning to a fighting stance- awaiting the hanyou's appearance with glittering eyes.
By now their voices had echoed through the entire forest, scaring every bird from every tree for miles. Inuyasha finally broke the tree line and saw Kagome facing him, as though she was going to attack. "Kagome...what are you doing...." He let his voice trail slightly with confusion. "C'mon Inuyasha...if I can take your brother- I can most certainly fend you off...it'll just be a friendly match..." She smirked confidently, never breaking her form. He let out one of his confident huffs, baring his fangs in a grin as his hand pulled Tetsusiaga from its shiisu. "Well then, let's just see about that...Sesshomaru is one thing- I'm completely different..."
Kagome bit her lip, awaiting Inuyasha to charge at her like he always did- and sure enough, he ran toward her with his sword above his head. She never took her eyes off him, waiting for the correct moment and lunging up at him, purposely thrusting her blade against his with a distinct clashing sound of metal. She had yet to let any of her miko energy flow into the sword- she would rather Tetsusiaga stay transformed for most of their sparing match- that way Inuyasha would at least have a chance. Her grin dripped with anticipation for his next move- her eyes, her entire body seemed to glow with pure excitement for battle. She wasn't as strong as Inuyasha, but she managed to push him back, to his suprise. He was forced to step back, regaining his posture and smiling compliments at his opponent.
"Not bad Kagome..." She nodded a thank you as she stared him down. "But are you sure you're up for this? I mean- you should probly be resting or something..." She bit her lip back slightly, sizing up her next counter attack. "Well Inuyasha- I feel fine, besides....its not me you should be worrying about..." She charged him slighty, pushing off her right foot forcefully and letting her blade bite into his- finally releasing a small amount of her purifying energy into the sword- making the air around them spark momentarily and her blade glow with its intense blue aura. Inuyasha watched helplessly as his sword was transformed back into a useless blade. Kagome slid her sword in a circle against Inuyasha until it was broken free of what seemed like an entanglement. She smoothly placed it back into his sheath, smiling over at Inuyasha proudly.
He huffed slightly, putting his sword away and placing his hands in his sleeves. Kagome looked him over a minute quietly with a small satisfying grin. Inuyasha looked into her deep brown hues curiously as she looked him over. "What? Why do you keep looking at me that way?" She shrugged, turning toward the village and calling back over her shoulder. "C'mon Inuyasha- lets go get something to eat..." Inuyasha smiled inwardly for a moment as she walked away, then quickly broke the moment and ran to catch up to her side.
Everyone sat in a circle in Kaede's hut- talking cheerfully in the pleasant atmosphere as they finished dinner. Sango and Miroku goofed around a little- teasing each other until Sango heard the baby crying from the next room. When she returned with the calmed infant nestled in her arms, Inuyasha was already picking on Shippo annoyingly. Inuyasha and Shippo argued pesteringly as Sango played with the baby- watching her son try to walk as Kirara mewed from Kohaku's lap. Kagome took in the entire scene- inch by inch, not wanting the moments to be taken for granted. She smiled softly, talking with Sango in small conversation as they laughed at Inuyasha and Shippo and the young Kasaku who was trying his best to make his small legs work properly.
Kagome picked herself up, dusting off the flowing outfit lightly and announcing that she was leaving for the hot springs. "I'll go with you if you like..." Sango offered as her eyes tended to the small child playing with Shippo. "That's alright Sango- I'll be fine..." She smiled as she eased toward the doorway slowly. "Well at least take Kirara in case something happens..." Kohaku offered generously- making the small neko youkai jumped from his arms and follow Kagome's figure. "Alright- I'll see you guys later tonight..." They both then disappeared through the doorway at once.
Kagome sighed deeply once she was walking from the village toward the forest hotsprings. Kirara had jumped to her shoulder, purring slightly near her ear for a few moments as Kagome thought aloud quietly without really realizing. "Is this really my life now? ...I dreamed of how it would be for such a long time...having my best friends by my side- watching them spend their lives together happily...slaying demons and protecting the village...but...isn't there something else...I want more- I know I do...because I've dreamed of that too..." Again she sighed, noticing that her walk was nearly ending as the air filled with a misty smoke from the heated springs- stiffling her breathes with humidity. She pushed a few green branches and ferns aside, taking in the familiar sight of the glassy water before her.
She quickly undressed, a chill running up her spine as she layed her blue silk dress on a dry branch and slipped into the comforting waters. The warmth surrounding her instantly as she waded in to the deep depths, letting it engulf her from the shoulders down. She turned- her brown hues searching for Kirara- finally spotting her falling asleep atop a dry rock contently. She smiled, leaning back against a large boulder to relax- a small waterfall of fresh water streaming into the heated pool nearby made ripples stretch out endlessly before her. -----
Moments after Kagome had left- topics changed and Inuyasha acted as though he were tired, then made his excuse and slipped from the hut. No one said anything- but they all thought it suspicious that he would suddenly leave right after Kagome- and Miroku couldn't stop smiling at Sango with his hentai looks. Sango smirked, hitting him slightly with a playful tone- trying to scold him for such thoughts that she herself couldn't help but think. A few moments later, Sango put Kasaku and Shippo to bed in their room and returned to Miroku by the fire. "What? Why are you looking at me like that?" She questioned as she sat down- the monk looking at her curiously with a small smile. "You and I both know what Inuyasha and Kagome are doing...they've been sneaking around just like you and I did before we were married...." Sango blushed slightly- trying to stiffle her giggles at the thought of Inuyasha and Kagome. "Do you really think they are together? ...I mean, we didn't manage to keep it a secret for too long when we were together- but what makes you think they are?"
Miroku smirked. "I just know...its that look in Kagome's eyes when she glances at Inuyasha- or the tone in Inuyasha's voice when he talks about Kagome...its the same way the both of us were..." Sango smiled as Miroku gently folded his arms around her, she looked back at him- placing a chaste kiss on his lips. "I remember when I first realized I was in love with you...." Miroku listened contently, recollecting the times just after Inuyasha had died, holding Sango tightly in his lap. "I was so torn up over Inuyasha's death and my brother's disappearance that I didn't think I was going to make it at times- but you always made me feel better....and everytime I was with you- things didn't seem quite so bad...that night- when Kagome ran off to see Totosai...that was the best thing that ever happened to me...you were the best thing that ever happened to me...." Miroku sighed lightly. "Sango dear- I couldn't have asked for anyone more perfect..."
They both cuddled by the fire for a few moments longer- remembering their life together in a content happiness, then finally leaving for bed.
--Flashback--
Miroku and Sango, as well as Shippo and Kaede had ben worried for several hours now over Kagome's safety. She had left with Kirara- telling them she was going to see Totosai on an important matter. Everyone, especially Sango, had been concerned for Kagome since the day she woke up to find Inuyasha dead. Since then she had become someone entirely different. They watched as she tortured herself in rigorous training day after day- going after strong demons recklessly only to get herself injured in pursuit of jewel shards and any sort of satisfaction. She was cold and rigid now- most times showing a heartlessness towards her friends that they had never imagined Kagome was capable of.
Miroku had often took up for Sango, comforting her when he found her crying over the difficult search for her brother, or Inuyasha's absence. That night- Sango had left Kaede's hut to visit Inuyasha's grave. When Miroku asked about her- he decided to follow and see if she were alright. He came upon Sango's figure, doubled over the gravesite, crying angrily and cursing the hanyou for leaving Kagome in such condition. He frowned, stepping into the clearing with concern. "It was not fault...Inuyasha had no choice whether to liver die..."
Sango dried her tears as she picked herself up from the ground. "Miroku...what are you doing out here?" Miroku blushed slightly. "I...was concerned- I just came to make sure you were alright..." He slightly stumbled over his words as Sango softened her expression into smile. "Thank you Miroku....you've been so kind to me...." Miroku sighed with a small smile. "It's quite alright Sango...now why don't we go back and have something eat...." Sango shook her head as her glassy eyes stared toward the ground. "I need to find my brother...I have not seen him in so long...and I-" Sango's words trailed off as her steps failed her- she weakly lost her footing and before she knew it, Miroku had reached out and caught her in his arms.
She smiled weakly into his concerned eyes as he lifted her frail figure in his strong embrace. "I promise you Sango- we will find Kohaku, but now we must care for you- I have noticed you haven't eaten much lately...so let's go back and have a warm meal and you can rest a while..." Sango looked up with a small nod, snuggling closer to Miroku as he looked down at her suprisingly. Sango was suprised at how much Miroku cared for her, and even more surprised at how much she cared for him in return. "Miroku..." Miroku entered the hut quietly to see that Kaede had left their food out a gone to bed. "Yes Sango?" She held tightly to his robes as he sat near the fading fire. "Don't let go of me yet...stay with me..." He smiled down at her quietly. "I wouldn't dream of it..." He folded his arms around her gently as she began to fall asleep.
------end fb--------
At the moment, Inuyasha was on his way through the forest- letting his feet take him where they pleased as his mind wandered over several different topics- the main one being Kagome. The night air swept his silvery locks in a flowing fashion behind him, as though it were a silk sheet as he cut through the dark shadows of the forest. His ember eyes took in his path silently- noticing his reduced visibility due to the small sliver of moonlight left. He knew his night was coming- the new moon would be here and cursed the night for coming so soon. The cycles of the moon weren't nearly long enough to satisfy him- and if he were full demon he wouldn't need to worry about such things, but he couldn't bear to think of himself as such- after seeing th horrible things he did when his demon blood was released- he wouldn't willingly risk becoming that monster permanently. He had taken Miroku's words to heart- if he were to become full demon by the Shikon jewel, there would be no way to determine if he would even be himself, or if he would retain his memories- but most of all- he was afraid of not loving Kagome...he couldn't live without her- at least not happily- and if he hurt her in anyway, he couldn't bare the thought.
He finally slowed to a stop by the river, walking over and kneeling by the running stream- cupping his hand and bringing the clear, cold liquid to his lips- sipping it up gently to refresh himself- then wiping it away with his sleeve. He continued again- this time in another direction, this way seemingly more promising since Kagome's sweet scent was carried in the air. He followed quickly at first- unaware of why he was going, he just wanted to be near her- being without her, for even a short while- made him feel empty and yet, filled with countless human emotions. As her scent grew stronger- he realized what he was getting himself into- Kagome would probably think he was coming to peek on her in the hot springs, yet he continued catiously.
The musty smell of water vapor and flowers filled the air like a bittersweet perfume to Inuyasha's sensitive nose- Kagome's fragile scent was almost irrestible, surrounded by the tender dosages of heat. Before the hanyou took another misguided step toward the intoxicating aromas- he was greeted by Kirara's small form jumping from the bushes, followed by Kagome's voice. "Kirara?! What's wrong- ...." Her words lingered on her lips as they trailed softly- her wet figure wrapped in a towel that she held up loosely with one hand. Her ebony locks shimmered with dripping spring water as it hung in heavy laces around her face and down her bare back. Inuyasha blushed slighty- Kagome's scent, her dripping wet body- it was almost too hard to control his emotions.
Kagome herself was a little embarrassed- her cheeks turned a tender shade of cherry as she spoke softly in a wavering voice. "ano....Inu..yasha...er- What are you doing out here?" He swallowed slightly to regain his voice. "I just- umm... came out for a walk..." His ember hues diverted from her cautiously as she smiled slightly. "Alright...well- Kirara- I guess you can just go back to the village now...Inuyasha can walk me back..." She gestured and the little neko youkai was off into he forest- then her soft brown hues returned to Inuyasha. "Let me just get changed...be right back..." Inuyasha didn't bother to look up- nodding his head slightly as he waited for Kagome to return.
He waited a several moments, then got a bit anxious. "Kagome? Are you coming or not? Kagome?!" His voice had regained its rough annoyance and trademark charm as he called to a silent spring. "If you don't answer I'm coming after you!" He mumbled a few incomprehensible things under his breathe as his impatience grew- finally rolling his eyes and heading to the spring. "Kagome! Whats going on? Why is it taking so long?!" The end of Inuyasha's words fell with confusion as he searched the empty spring. "Kagome?" He looked around in search of her, his ears twitching a moment, then spinning around on a heel instantly to pin a figure to the nearest tree. He looked down annoyingly- his ember hues burning into her own chocolate ones.
"Boo..." She smiled slightly as he huffed, rolling his eyes. Her hair was still dripping wet, but now she had changed back into her baby blue kimono of silk- the shoulders soaked from her ebony laces laying across them and drenching them. "Are you ready to go back to the village?" She sighed slightly. "I suppose- but you'll have to let go of me first...." She tried nudging his strong figure back, but he only pinned her closer to tree, making it more difficult to move. She looked up at him with confusion. "Inuyasha- let go- what are you doing..." Her hands were pressed firmly against his chest, but he refused to move. "Who said I was going to let go? You're mine now..." He leaned closer, taking her lips with little force- at first she resisted with confusion, but eventually eased into the kiss, her hands tracing up around his neck comfortably as his arms slipped around her waist, pulling her tighter- pressing her back against the tree gently.
Finally, when oxygen became an issue- they broke away reluctantly, Inuyasha's forehead pressed against Kagome's gently as they both took in small gasps of air. Kagome could feel Inuyasha's hot breath on her face- warmly caressing her blushing cheeks. When she finally spoke- her voice was small and hushed under her pants of breath, as though the woods required whispers. "We should get back to the village- before anyone misses us..." Inuyasha agreed with a small nod, pushing back off the tree to stand fully upright- his eyes burning into her. She smiled caringly, putting her hand in his- their fingers lacing together as if it were natural, then beginning to walk back through the dark haze to the fields that lead to the small village.
During the partially silent walk, Kagome tried to hold back small fits of giggles in vain as Inuyasha looked down at her curiously. "What?" She looked up with a wide smile, still giggling under her breath. "I can't believe you pinned me to the tree like that....and I can't believe that you just happened to be on a walk either...." She looked at him curiously. "Yea- well- I- ....Its a free forest- I can walk where I want to ya know! And besides- I can't believe you would think you could sneak up on a demon..." He rolled his eyes annoyingly as Kagome laughed slightly at his defensive behavior.
They exited the forest and came out into one of the many large fields behind the village. They looked up at the magnificent night sky- filled with stars that scattered about the dark velvety blanket. Kagome smiled- looking back at Inuyasha with an eye roll to match his own. "What now?" He protested slightly. "You're such a baka sometimes Inuyasha..." She walked ahead of the confused hanyou playfully as he gained a sly smile on his lips. "Oh really?" He raised a brow as Kagome looked back at him over her shoulder.
In the next moment Inuyasha rushed over and began tickling Kagome, finally tackling her to her knees in the field as she burst out in fits of laughter and pleeing for mercy. "Inuyasha- ...Stop it!.... Inuyasha! S- --" She was laughing so hard it was getting hard to catch her breath, so finally barrel-rolled him, so she was on top- stratteling the hanyou between her knees as she sat on top of the still- and now blushing- Inuyasha. She calmed her excited laughter down a bit as she looked down at the hanyou's pure golden orbs- which tried to seem as though they were interested in the sky-rather than the young girl sitting on top of him. She smiled, moving forward and pushing the silver locks from his face- forcing his eyes to return to her soft brown hues.
Inuyasha felt a little uncomfortable in this position- making his heart race faster and his tempature rise. Finally- he couldn't take it anymore- he simply took hold of her waist and again flipped their positions- so now Kagome layed with her back on the ground and he layed next to her, his arms on either side of her body. She looked up at him as soon as the confusion wore off- both fading into a trance as they inched closer. "Inuyasha- I- ...I-" Inuyasha read her mind as soon as he heard her soft and quiet words- quieting her voice with his lips for a moment, then pulling away from the short, breathless kiss. "I know...I love you too..." With that whisper, they purged thier desire to kiss one another- deepening their kisses with each passing moment. Kagome's hands tracing up to play with Inuyasha's silver locks- the sheer length of which was pouring over their bodies and melting with Kagome's- which was fully dry & sprawled out like black silk- flowing in every direction beneath them.
By the time they were going to go back to the village, hours had passed and Kagome had fallen asleep on Inuyasha's chest- both looking up at the night sky in the middle of the tall grassy field. He pulled his one hand from beneath his head lazily to meet his other- which was curved around Kagome's body gently. He got to his feet, pulling her up in his arms- and instead of walking the entire way back to the village, he simply settled in a tree nearby- resting on the lowest, thick branch- his back supported by the trunk with Kagome in his lap- wrapped up in his red haori and laying against his chest- his arms folded around her gently.
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Welps, that was fluffy...sorry about the long wait- I just had a few days where I didn't get to work on the ending so it probly could have been up sooner- but I wanted there to be more to it. Anyways- we will have more fluffiness in the future...then some major changes...You'll see! As for lemnoy/lime- well I've decided to keep it within a PG-13 range- for the most part- but I'm changing the rating to R, just to be safe and there won't be too much lemon- I'm not sure I could even write it that way and still be sane- I tend to burst out into fits of giggles when I read stuff like that.And did you like the Sango/Miroku thing? I figure it would be cute to give you guys at least an idea of what happened between them- there is actually a really kawaii story behind it, but it just got left out along the way- so if I did eventually tell it, it would be in flashback. -Hope you enjoyed it- R&R!
ano- er, ummm
Yamauba- mountain witch
Ageku- Finally
Kogatana- small knife(in this case it was a small knife Kagome kept secretly strapped to her ankle for easy access- kinda like Sango's many concealed weapons in her uniform)
Haimu- home
shiisu- sword sheath
Matte- wait
Gomen nasai- I'm sorry; my apologies
Kijo- demoness; she-devil; witch
Un- Yeah