Disclaimer: As most of you probably figured, I don't own Inuyasha... sad, yes, but I don't let it get me down...

Simple Lies

Chapter Seven: What Now?

Inuyasha found himself in his fathers study going over the plans of war, yet his mind could not focus. All he saw was the image of a raven-haired girl lying asleep in his bedchambers. Clenching his fist in aggravation he slammed it down on the desk causing the wood splinter; he groaned. If his father saw this... maybe he wouldn't, maybe he might think that it was himself who had done it. Inuyasha has seen his father mistreat his desk thousands of times when it looked as if they were caught in a trap during times of war. Think of... Jakken! Inuyasha shivered, goose bumps running along his arms in disgust. He really did not like the toad servant of his brothers.

"Damn." he muttered aloud as her sleeping face appeared before his minds eye once more. Why couldn't he get rid of her? Why was she constantly in his thoughts, he needed to go over war plans for his father and not have her on his mind! She looked so... content while she slept, but then after her dream... she looked so vulnerable. He couldn't help but feel the need to want to protect her from whatever demons plagued her. He shook his head, his eyes coming to focus on the plans to their defences. Now if only he could... he hated to see her crying like that. It-

No! Inuyasha slammed his head down upon his father's desk, muttering, no, over and over again. He was not suppose to care what happens to his loves twin, he was suppose to gain her trust so that he could gain that stupid jewel for Kikyou. He did not want her to have to be hurt; he did not want her to die over something so stupid. Now only if he could figure out which 'her' his mind meant. One side whispered Kikyou while the other side Kagome. He began slamming his head repeatedly over the desk.

"You know, little brother, if you had wanted a beating I would have happily obliged." His brother's voice filtered its way through his ears, tinged with amusement. Arg, he had been so preoccupied he didn't notice his arrival, stupid wench! He cursed inwardly. "Honestly I was not expecting you to be here, I thought you'd still be sleeping. I had wanted to see if you were up for sparring, but instead I ran into that maid of yours..." His lips twitched into some semblance of a smirk, now Inuyasha was curious, his brother never smiled. "I got to talking to her."

His ears twitched at that, his eyes widened, but only a split second before he schooled his face. "Really now, what was it you wanted from her brother? You never talk with the help." He inquired suspiciously, eyeing his brother a moment.

Sesshoumaru chuckled slightly; he only ever showed emotion around Inuyasha, his father and stepmother. She was more of a mother to him then his own, whom abandoned him when he was still an infant. "You know me all to well, little brother." He sighed; he would not reveal too much, only a bit. After all he did make those promises, and he would not break them. He liked the girl and did not want to ruin her forced trust in him, for some reason he wanted to prove to her that he was trust worthy. He shrugged the thought off as he went on to speak with his brother. "How much do you know of your personal maid, Inuyasha?" He put a hand up just as his brother opened his mouth to forestall anything his brother had to stay. "I will have no lies brother, I want to the whole truth of what you know of her. We are blood, I am your beloved brother, and I want the truth from you, will you deny me of that?" He arched a brow, curiously. He knew that his brother would not.

Inuyasha sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping slightly. "I know that she is Kikyou's sister, I could smell it in their scents, that slight tinge of spice her their blood seems to share." He shook his head, not mentioning Kikyou's words in his detailed description of what he knew. "I also know that girl has some dealings with Naraku because her father was killed by Naraku, her friend Miroku when I asked said that someone betrayed her and thus ended in her fathers death and the rest of her families kidnapping. I wanted to know why she trusted no one, and that is what the monk told me." He looked his brother square in the eyes. "Your not going to hold it against her are you?"

Sesshoumaru smiled inwardly, it would seem his brother is starting to fall for the girl. If not, he would not have cared what he thought of the character. "I will not, I happen to like the girl. I already knew of her being Kikyou's twin, actually she and I had a very interesting conversation." He grinned at the slight widening of his brother's eyes. "She wants to help us fight off Naraku, she even asked if I would help her be included in the discussions, and plans having to do with the war as well as speak to father on her behalf so that she and her two friends may be included in all aspects... I agreed to it of course..." Sesshoumaru couldn't help from laughing at the look upon his brother's face.

Inuyasha's eyes widened as far as they could possibly go, jaw dropped so far it nearly smacked the desk as his head had done not so long ago. "What did she do to you?" His brother yelled accusingly. "You don't just agree to helping someone without them owing you, and you certainly do not help out servants." He sputtered out in disbelief.

Sesshoumaru shrugged. "As I said before, dear brother, I happen to like her and besides she is no ordinary servant. She happens to have Miko blood flowing through her veins, she would make a very good ally in the upcoming battle, don't you think?" Taking the Tetsusaiga from his side he tossed it to Inuyasha, who looked down at it in confusion. "Come now brother, you did not forget about your sword did you? Or was it that I had originally came to drag you down to the dojo for training?" He arched a brow.

"Feh." Inuyasha scoffed as he stood, placing his sword at his side before fallowing Sesshoumaru out and towards the dojo. He would get his brother back for the comment during training, as well as question him further about his talk with Kagome. How was it she was able to trust his brother enough to ask for his help and not him?

~*~

Kagome rested her elbows on the counter in the kitchens of the castle, her head resting in the palms of her hands, sighing dejectedly staring down at her half eaten sandwich she had prepared for herself. When had things gone so terribly wrong? Kagome wondered somberly, all she wanted to do was secretly help out the kingdom and possibly destroy Naraku. Things never go as planned, she groaned mentally. She should have never listened to Miroku.

~*~ Flash Back ~*~

Kagome sat next to Sango as Miroku stirred the soup he was cooking in the pot, she had no idea what it was but it smelt delicious. She couldn't stop her mouth from watering once she caught wind of the scent. Her stomach growled. "Miroku how much longer until its done." Questioned Sango. She gave Kagome a sideways glance, while smiling humorously. "Because I don't think that Kagome-chan will last much longer with her empty stomach." Sango laughed and then laughed harder from the pointed glare from her friend, before she herself broke out into a grin.

Miroku smiled slightly. It was only on certain occasions when Miroku lost his serious exterior, one: being when he's on the lecherous warpath. Two: when they had moments like these just between the four of them. Then there's three: that is when he watched Sango. Kagome doubted if the demon huntress ever noticed it, but she sure did. What kind of fried would she be if she did not? She stopped her train of thought soon enough to hear Miroku's reply.

"It should be done in five more minutes." His face became a serious mask, she and Sango fallowed suit sensing from their good monk friend an important topic is to be discussed. They had been traveling so long together that they were just able to sense it in the way he held himself, the look in his eyes as he studied the soup before him. She and Sango were not disappointed as the next words from his mouth were: "I think we should try and get work at the castle, it would be easier to observe what is going on between this Kingdom and Naraku. If we are needed to help what better place to be then the castle were we might be of service as well as over hear what is of Naraku. If he does not plan to attack here like rumor states then we may have to leave for elsewhere." Miroku explained. He lifted his eyes from his work to study the faces of his fellow companions.

"But we can't afford to be seen by someone working for Naraku should they same thing happen that happened in Tranchico, Hokkaido, Izumo and many other Kingdoms and villages we have visited searching for clues to bring him down." She remembered those times as clearly as she remembered her own name. In each of those places one of Naraku's spies has seen then and reported their ware bouts, then he had paid them a visit. He was already planning on taking Izumo, but she still couldn't help but feel it as her fault for the once beautiful kingdoms downfall. Kagome shook her head in dismay. "I don't think we should risk being seen."

"I disagree Kagome-chan." Miroku stated matter-of-fact. She smiled inwardly at the endearment, the monk never called her chan unless they were alone just the four of them, otherwise he always added a Sama at the end of her name. "We can easily avoid any of his spies as long as we keep our senses open to their evil auras, but if we are to ever beat Naraku then we need to go about it this way otherwise he will always elude us."

"I agree with Miroku, Kagome." Sango voiced. "Whenever we avoid the main source of information we always lose sight of him, or we are unprepared for his arrival because we either shows up or we find out to late. We need to go where there if likely to be the most informed."

"Doushite?" Kagome whined, before crossing her arms openly glaring at them. "Fine, we'll go to the castle but we will not involve the royal family in anyway. I don't want anymore to be harmed then there already are." She shook her head in mock annoyance. "You know it always seems that you two always decide against me."

"I believe it is you, who sees it that way." Miroku stated, eyes dancing with amusement, before growing solemn. "I shall travel to the castle early that next day and secure us some positions in the castles staff." Stirring the soup a bit, he smiled. "It looks like the food is finished."

~*~ End of Flash Back ~*~

Kagome shook her head of the memories as she heard a voice behind her call her name with bubbly laughter. "Kagome!"

She turned her head to be met with big brown smiling eyes; she returned the gesture with a smile of her own. "Rin!" She called, jumping into the girls outstretched arms and return the hug with equal enthusiasm. "I haven't seen you since my first night at the castle, how have you been?" She laughed, returning to her seat.

Grinning Rin sat besid her, forgetting her reasoning behind visiting the kitchens this early in the day. "Great! Thank you for asking Kagome-chan. What about you? How was your first couple of nights in the castle, Inuyasha treating you all right? Not that he wouldn't, he's actually very kind once you get to know him, but whatever do don't mention that to him. He would do everything in his power to prove you wrong, trust me I made the mistake of saying something after a short awhile of knowing him." She explained.

Kagome couldn't help smile, despite her depressed state, Rin radiated happiness and one could not help but be cheery in her presence. "I am doing fine as well Rin-chan, and Inuyasha has treated me very well, in fact he hardly makes me do anything for him. I think I have only had to straighten up his room, bring up his morning meals, and wash his clothing. That is simple compared to what my friend Sango must do."

Rin nodded. "Yes, the King and Queen can be quite demanding, while Inuyasha on the other hand usually insists doing everything on his own. Sesshoumaru-sama had to force-" She cut off abruptly, eyes widening slightly. "Oh no!" She gasped. "I forgot Sesshoumaru-sama asked if I would bring a picture of tea and some biscuits to the dojo."

Kagome shook her head slightly at her frantic friend, placing a hand on her arm, she flashed her a comforting smile. "Don't worry Rin, since it is might fault for keeping you I shall help you prepare them." She paused and looked up at her with uncertainty. "The cook is off duty until latter this afternoon, you do no how to bake biscuits do you not?" Rin nodded slowly. "Good, I'll show you a recipe I learned from the east as well as some tea I learned to brew from Izumo." The thought of Izumo usually saddened her, it was where she had spent the longest made the most friends and most of all learned the most useful things. But, as of right know, it was hard to feel sad in Rin's presence. The girl seemed to radiate cheerfulness.

Rin gave her a quick embrace and a warm smile. "Thank you so much Kagome-chan."

She waved her hand in dismissal. "Think nothing of it." Kagome replied. "Now, for the biscuits I shall need some flour, starch, buttermilk, vanilla, and some powered and brown sugar." So far it looked as if Miroku and Sango were going to have to wait to hear about Sesshoumaru's questioning, Kagome shrugged, they were probably busy at the moment anyways. "I Show you how much of what to mix in and then I'll start in on the tea." Kagome watched in amusement as Rin ran towards the back of the kitchen like the devil was on the back of her heels gathering up all of the aforementioned supplies so the she may start on the biscuits. Walking toward the cupboard to her right, She began to search through the fruits and such to make the tea Izumo was most famous for.

~*~

Both brothers watched the other through hooded eyes, neither giving away their thoughts their emotions. They kept them under control, locked up tight within their own hearts, their own souls. It would do neither of them any good to let them be read by the other so easily, it only meant defeat and that was not an option in either brother's mind. Inuyasha held the Tetsusaiga erect over his right shoulder, watching for the right moment to strike, waiting for the unsaid agreement to move to start the battle now that they were position. Sesshoumaru nodded slightly, immediately bringing up the tokojin to block the opponent's swords path. Breaking apart, he smirked slightly.

"Inuyasha is that any kind of greeting to be giving your dear brother?" He questioned lightly. "To others it would seem efficient, to myself, well, I'd have to say your aren't putting your heart into it."

Inuyasha scoffed. "What are you talking about?" Taking the Tetsusaiga in bother hands he brought the mighty blade to tear open the flesh of his brother's stomach, knowing full well it would be block. He wasn't disappointed. Smirking he said. "Are you sure my hearts not in it, dear brother." He mocked, forcing Sesshoumaru back slightly.

With a slight frown he shook his head. "How little you know brother." At the slight confusion that crossed the hanyou's eyes, Sesshoumaru smirked inwardly. Pulling back using Inuyasha's strength against him, the Taiyoukai used his own speed to make his way behind his brother placing Tokojin at his throat to the point of drawing blood at the slightest movement. "Yes, I would say I'd your hearts not in it. If it were you would have seen this move coming long before I had the chance to execute it using one of those annoying tricks of yours to save your hide." The comment to the outside world was made in a dispassionate, uncaring tone. To one who knew the full demon brother they would have heard the underlying of pride and respect. He had taught his dear younger brother everything he knew, for the student to pull one over the teacher, no matter how annoying it was, earn respect from the older demon lord. The pride came from the fact that he taught his brother, and his brother, from Sesshoumaru's teachings, learned how to adapt to the slightest change in a persons ki, scent, and facial expressions as well as the body making him the second greatest swordsmen next to himself. Yes, Sesshoumaru couldn't help but feel pride in his brother at that.

Elbowing his brother roughly in the stomach, Inuyasha used the losing of the blade at his throat to his advantage. Dropping to his feet, he kicked Sesshoumaru's own out from under him before back-flipping into a crouched position sword at the ready, while all for the world looking like a coiled up spring ready to be released.

Inuyasha watched carefully as his brother got to his feet, something down his kimono trying to regain some of his lost dignity. Already knowing that he made the Demon prince angry, Inuyasha cleared his mind of all thoughts that plagued his mind early. He would think about his planning to gain Kagome's trust latter. One the slightest movement his brother could have killed him, and if it were anyone else, because of his distraction, he would have died. It was then he decided in giving his brother due attention to their match. Sesshoumaru dusting himself off got into a readied positioned, his eyes watching Inuyasha like a stalker to its prey. "Very good brother, I see your mind and heart have found one another at last." Placing one foot in front of the other be prepared himself to charge the some feet to his brothers position, blade to his side in both hands now that he was going for a more powerful blow.

Taking note of this, Inuyasha uncoiled himself slowly; taking in a defensive stance his face emotionless, it was at this point he understood the fight was to become something serious. There would be no more idle chitchat. Now in this mindset nothing crossed Inuyasha's mind, not even his actions, it was all done in fluid movement as if it had been practiced for years that it no longer required thought. Sesshoumaru was pleased to note this, as he too got into the mindset he had taught Inuyasha.

Once their eyes made contact, unspoken words the at needed no voice to understand, Inuyasha jumped and flipped over his brothers head to avoid the sweep of the sword that would have sliced through his middle leaving him in halves. He brought his sword down only to have it block by Sesshoumaru's due to his great speed. If not for that the poor older demon would have found Tetsusaiga in between his ribs. Deciding simultaneously to test the others strength, both used their sword, putting everything they had behind it, to push the other, even if only an inch. While engaging in a glaring match, without heated glares, to read the others soul behind their eyes, to see if they could predict the others next move. Always nothing is every read, each brother having mastered the art of evasion, even their auras during battle gave not hint, but neither of them gave up to this fact. If something flashed, even if it were very brief, they would catch it and use it to their advantage and possible it would help them win. Never did they believe what was easier read in the others eyes, it was always a bluff. This fact both brothers learned the hard way.

Breaking apart, they started each other down, their eyes conversing.

That was a tie little brother, but don't get too cocky I, Sesshoumaru, will win the next time...

They circled each other, eyes never leaving the other's form for they did not wish to miss even the slightest twitch of muscle.

Sure thing Sesshoumaru, you just don't want to admit your getting slow in your old age...

Running forward, Sesshoumaru brought his Tokojin erect over his shoulder before bringing it down on Inuyasha as if to slice him in half horizontally. It, of course, was blocked by Tetsusaiga, but jut barely. He smirked at the look of shock that ran across his half brothers face.

What were you saying about old age? His eyes questioned with mirth. Remember Inuyasha I am not much older then you, only by five years I'd say.

Inuyasha shook his head holding Tetsusaiga out before him one handed, your holding out on me aren't you? He demanded glaring at his older full youkai brother. How he wanted to take the look out of his eyes. He must have relayed some of that into his depths as the laughter within Sesshoumaru's became more defined.

The mirth died as he ran forward to meet his brother's blade. You can try brother, but I doubt you'd be able to. Using the Tokojin as a crutch Sesshoumaru kicked his brother in the stomach sending him sprawling out on the floor. Not wasting any time, lest his brother regain footing, Sesshoumaru placed his own booted foot over his brother's chest sword to his throat. Told you that I would win. His eyes declared as they went to the two figures standing to their sides, he knew they were their the entire time. Well, not the whole time, but that didn't matter as Inuyasha hadn't even sensed them yet and the fight was over. He glanced at his brother as he made to stand, Inuyasha, he noticed, has been very distracted lately. He smiled inwardly at that. He knew why too, it had to do with a certain raven-haired personal maid of his.

Kagome still could not get over the shock of seeing the brothers fighting. They were incredible, each movement made so precise so smooth, so fluid that it was like their sword were extensions to their bodies. She was glad that Sesshoumaru was on her side, briefly she thought about speaking to Inuyasha about their dilemma as his help would be greatly needed, but quickly decided against it. She would not involve anymore then already were. Kagome didn't even want Sesshoumaru involved. By looking at him, thought, she could tell it would be a fight to the death to convince him of her same train of thought.

Noticing the older youkai prince's eyes on her, she began clapping. Inuyasha hearing the noise jumped to his feet eyes as big as saucers when they fell upon her and Rin. She smiled laughing a bit at his reaction; he looked like a rabbit cornered in a wolf's den, before it was schooled quickly to something resembling indifference. "Rin said that you were the best fighters, I thought she was only showing favoritism, but I guess I was wrong." She bowed before them but never lowered her eyes; it was as if she expected one of them to attack when she was not looking. That was not the case though. "Maybe we could go one sometimes, if your up to it that is, my lords." She stated, with a glint to her eyes that Sesshoumaru would describe as mischief or perhaps excitement, or a little of both.

Inuyasha gave a snort at the request. "Feh, woman can't fight with swords, they can only use bows and arrows, and they can't even do that right." He scoffed.

Sesshoumaru snickered at the idiocy of his half-brother, and he really stressed the half part right about then. The taiyoukia knew, the one did not insult a woman by saying she could not do something that a man could, and then proceed to tell her that women can't even do what they are suppose to be able to do right. It was just not rational to do such a thing, as a woman would go to the ends of the earth to prove you wrong and herself right. That was, Sesshoumaru supposed, what is going to happen and he, like a good older brother, was going to sit there along with Rin and enjoy every moment of it. Inuyasha should have listened to him, instead of block the sound out of his ears, when he told him about women. He probably should have waited until he was older then eight, he mused briefly.

Kagome just gaped at the hanyou, and then her face contoured into a controlled smile. Yes, controlled because if she were to allow what she felt at the moment into her facial expression she was sure the shear intensity of it would burn the demon into the ground. Maybe that wasn't such a bad idea about then. "Sesshoumaru would you do me a favor please?" She inquired with extra sweetness to her tone, with the underlying steel.

Sesshoumaru cringed inwardly, wish for all the world she did not bring her attention to himself, she should be atop his brother about then her fist flying all over his face. He chuckled slightly at the mental image that brought to him, before quickly brining his attention the very angry raven-haired priestess before him. He really wanted to run. "Yes, lady Kagome?" He asked, giving her the title of lady before her name due to the fact that she is a shrine trained Miko and therefore deserving of such a title from himself; not to mention she is very strong.

"Since Inuyasha doesn't seem to think I can handle a sword properly, because of my being woman, would it be alright with you if I were to teach him not to judge on such an account? My lord?" After this little lesson she was going straight to Sango! She would teach the arrogant jerk! Telling her that she couldn't handle a sword because of her gender. He was a sexist! She would teach him, and then Sango and then maybe she might find another but until then...

"I don't mind at all, there are practice swords on that wall behind you."

Inuyasha rounded on his brother. "Sesshoumaru what are you doing!" He hissed low enough that only a youkai would hear. "She's going to get hurt, are you going to let that happen just because the wench wants to prove a point." He demanded furiously, fist clenched, his only reply was that of his brother's laughing.

Going over and choosing a sturdy bokken she got into a relaxed stance, one that seemed as if she held not an ounce of talent. Her trainer and mentor always said it was best to fool the opponent any way possible, and she would use that advice. Her eyes followed Inuyasha, grumbling under his breath all the way, as he too picked out a bokken, discarding his earlier sword to his side.

Rin held up the biscuits in one hand, and the picture of tea in the other, she did not want anyone to get hurt. "Why don't we have tea first Inuyasha, you just fought your brother and I'm sure you must be awfully thirsty." She called out. Her shoulders sagged when it became apparent they were just going to ignore her and continue their death glare match. Unlike the fight with Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru, in this fight the glares held enough heat to melt an iceberg the size eight Japans. She sighed dejectedly as she placed the items down upon the low table.

Sesshoumaru placed a comforting hand on Rin's shoulder. "Worry not Lady Rin, they shall be fine." He stated matter of fact before withdrawing his hand from her covered shoulder and back to his side, eyes focused upon his brother and Kagome's fight. Rin, deciding to accept Sesshoumaru's optimism, watch as well trying to put out the growing worry in the pit of her stomach.

The hollow sound of wood upon wood resounded throughout the dojo as bokken struck against bokken, Kagome smirked at the look of utter shock that crossed the hanyou's face. He wasn't expecting her to block his attack. He didn't understand how one could go from a laid back stance that looked as if the person had picked up the sword for the first time in their entire lives, to wielding the thing almost perfectly and blocking his advance.

Using his shock against him, Kagome took the bokken in both hands thrusting forward. When Inuyasha came to block, bokken held downward, elbows face right body slightly turned, wood meet wood causing a slightly hollow sound to resound, and used this as her chance. She swept him of his feet.

Losing his balance, Inuyasha knew that he would fall, but he was determined not to meet the ground alone. Groped for her hand or arm, he ended up grabbing the front of her shirt, normally he would have had the grace to blush, but at the moment he was too determined to win. They both fell with a smack. Kagome atop of Inuyasha, she grinned as she reached over for her bokken that had fallen from her grasped during the scuffle. She did not notice their compromising position, though two amused, very amused, observers did. It took every ounce of control within them not to drop with the laughter building at the pit of their stomachs. "I'm going to win Inuyasha." She whispered resolutely, her hand with in inches of claiming the wooden practice sword while her legs still straddle the stunned hanyou.

All though it didn't take long for the spoken words to register in his head, eyes widening, Inuyasha then glared menacingly as both hands reached up to make a grab for her waist ultimately switching their positions so that he was on top. The Inu-hanyou grinned and leaned down towards her ear. "Looks like I'm going to win." He whispered, breath heavily as he secretly reached for his bokken.

Kagome heard not a word as her whole minds focus was on reaching just a bit further to gain access to the bokken dropped by her opponent, while he reached for her own. Smiling inwardly as wrapped her hands around the shaft, she swiftly brought it to the hanyou's thought, gasping as she felt the same wooden sword at her own. Both stared wide-eyed at the other, their gazes trying to look at their own throats as if having a hard time believing the other to be dead, before their gazes locked. She was breathing heavy, as was he, but that was too be expected as he had just fought his brother. What was her reason? Sure she fought the hanyou, but....

Thunderous laughing and giggles coming from their right near the dodo's entrance cut off her train of thought. Startled eyes wiped in the direction of the sound, only to land on Rin and Sesshoumaru whom looked like their sides were about to spilt. Kagome watched on blush forming on her cheeks while Inuyasha watched in disbelief. Kagome did not know Sesshoumaru well and therefore found nothing wrong with the sight, while Inuyasha having grown up with the said cold-hearted demon had never seen him display such emotion in front of one not within their own immediate family, with the exception of Rin.

Once they calmed down, Sesshoumaru observed the two through amused eyes. "Well that was over quick, but dare I say that my dear brother regrets such seeing as he still has not removed himself from straddling the lady Kagome?" The said young lady would have thought the taiyoukai innocent with how he said if not for the glint in his eyes.

A look of horror crossed Inuyasha's face as he swiftly untangled himself from the woman beneath him, dropping the bokken in the process, coming to stand with a faint blush on his cheeks. Kagome stood a bit slower then hanyou, watching Sesshoumaru warily. "You know, I use to think that Miroku was bad, but you could probably give him a run for his money." She mumbled under her breath, her tone slightly irate but irritated more then anything else.

Sesshoumaru turned his amused glare to Kagome, news of the monks lecherous ways had reached his ears from the gossip of the servants as well as being witness to a few of the offenses. "It's one thing making such a remark for perverted purposes, but a whole other thing when it is meant to mortally embarrass your baby brother." Inuyasha growled at that, and Sesshoumaru chuckled lightly.

"I am not a baby!" He protested sharply.

"Awe, since you are the youngest in the family, it certainly does make you the baby." He retorted teasingly.

"No it doesn't!" Inuyasha growled.

Sesshoumaru shook his head pityingly. "I'm afraid it does, baby brother." Again his tone was light and teasing.

Kagome watched as the two went on bickering over something so... stupid. Though she could not contain her amazement at the fact that, Sesshoumaru, the man whom seemed so cold, heartless, who looked as if though he never laughed in his life, was teasing his brother and showing more emotion then what was normally seen from a rock was astonishing. It seemed, to her, that he only kept up such pretenses when around unfamiliar faces. Now that she thought about it, after she had proved herself not to be a threat to his family, his manner did change slightly; he seemed less cold and uninviting. Kagome pushed away her thoughts in time for her to see Inuyasha cross his arms with his usual 'feh', before agreeing to hear the news that Sesshoumaru had to offer him.

Crossing his arms, slight blush still staining his cheeks, his eyes glared at the opposite wall that housed his brother will his ears trained towards Sesshoumaru to catch his speech. "Feh, spit it out already, I ain't got all day." He grumbled.

The taiyoukai smirked. "I just thought that you would like to know our mother and father have some business to attend to with the lord and lady of house Kai, and therefore they will not be here to uphold the duties of the kingdom." He informed, his voice laced with barely concealed amusement.

Inuyasha rolled his eyes. "Keh, you know as well as I do, Sesshoumaru, they have no business to attend to with the house of Kai." He shook his head with a light humorous chuckle, as Kagome watched on with confusion and Rin with a knowing smile. "They use that same excuse every time, you'd think they'd come up with something different." He commented.

Rin nodded her agreement laughing lightly. "Yes you think that they would, but my mother and father did offer to be their excuse and none else have. Think about if they change their excuse then that would mean they would have to deal with another house, and not all the houses are like that of house Kai." She amended. "Our fathers are good friends and mothers like sisters, other houses would expect something in return for cover." Rin's gaze traveled to a very confused Kagome, she giggled lightly, of course she wouldn't know what was going on. Rin mentally berated herself for being so rude, before going on to explain. "You must be so confused Kagome?" She commented.

The young woman in question shook her head gently, a light smile gracing her lips. "I am at that, but I'm merely a servant so an explanation is not necessary."

A Rin opened her mouth to speak, she was caught off, her eyes going wide at whom it was. "No worries, I, Sesshoumaru, will explain." Rin wasn't the only one floored by her prince's response, Inuyasha had to physically shut his mouth after his brothers voice, and the meaning of the words spoken registered with in his head. What has that girl done to him! He never acts like that around the help! Inuyasha thought, eying the girl from the corners of his eyes while still keeping them trained on the not so sane Sesshoumaru. At lest he did not appear to be his sane self. "Our mother and father leave under the pretense of speaking with Rin's parents for a couple a days each moth, as for what they are really doing down there Inuyasha and I have not the care to find out." He grimaced as few thoughts came to mind, not of them pleasant for a son to think about his parents doing.

Kagome broke out into a grin, her eyes twinkling. "That's so sweet that they do things like that still." Both brothers shot her a look that clearly stated: You've got to be kidding me, that's just disgusting! She laughed at that. "Oh come one, would you rather them at each others throats, you should be happy your parents are still in love like that. Not many couples out there are like that. It's very rare from what I've seen." Her smile turned sad. "My parents were like that." She added quietly.

Deciding it best to end the conversation, Sesshoumaru threw out a comment sure to get Inuyasha going. "Well yes, and that means that Inuyasha has to take care of the duties in their stead as I was the one whom had to last time." He graced Inuyasha with a challenging glare, daring him to say otherwise.

The hanyou just snorted. "Why are they leaving now of all times, don't they remember were going to defend our land in less then a weeks time?" He inquired with raised brow.

Sighing Sesshoumaru rolled his eyes. "Of course they know that is why father is having me continue on with the planning and strategizing. They plain on returning three day's from now, plenty of time for father to go over the plans and approve or change things." He explained.

"Why don't we just switch, and I'll pay you back latter?" He suggested hopefully, though tried to cover that factor up unsuccessfully.

Kagome sat there long ago ignoring the brother's bickering over why Inuyasha couldn't switch with Sesshoumaru. Her thoughts were still on the King and Queen. If they were going to be leaving the castle under the pretense of going to see the lord Kai, but in reality were not... She paused her thoughts. Naraku might use this chance to strike and take them out, Kagome thought in dismay. She could not let that happen, knowing the baboon he already has spies watching the activities outside the castle. He would know when they left to travel, but she couldn't insist on going with them, and she needed to stay, here, in the castle to help plan and possibly hold off Naraku's forces. Knowing Naraku, it wouldn't surprise her if he decided to attack the village and border earlier then expected. She needed to remain in the castle in case of that happening. As her thoughts wondered, she began to play with the hem of her kimono's sleeve. Her eyes widened, and she gasped lightly, but never the less it drew the attention of the two bickering demons. Her eyes began to water.

"Kagome, are you alright?" Inuyasha asked, slowly.

She didn't even hear him. How could she have forgotten! No wonder she decided to wear this kimono today of all days, when she knew her chores might possible ruin it. She shook her head willing the tears at bay; it was the anniversary of her father's death. This day six years ago her father was slain by that monster Naraku, and has still yet to be avenged. "Sesshoumaru." She brought her eyes to meet his, reaching within the folds of her kimono she pulled out a cloth pouch. Without thought to occupants in the room, she went on to explain herself, her thoughts elsewhere. "Give that to your father, it's not the real thing, but a copy that I had made using my own spiritual powers to create to trick demons. Since it retains some of my power, it still can raise the strength of a demon. I have a feeling your father may need it, now if you will excuse me I need to see Miroku and Sango." With that said Kagome ran from the dojo before her tears could fall.

The three watched the young miko leave so suddenly, her eyes wavering with unshed tears. Rin step forward to fallow after, but was stopped with a hand to the shoulder from Sesshoumaru. He shook his head. "Leave her be, I think she may need time alone."

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Kagome hesitated a few moments before going into her story, praying silently that her words did not condemn her two friends. Her real worries lie in what he may do when he found they had lied to them. "When I was fourteen my father was killed right in front of me on this day, my mother and brother kidnapped." She whispered, adverting her eyes so that she did not see his eyes widen with underlying sympathy. "It was all over an object that I protect...

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Is that what has her so upset, did she now realize what she said back then? Sesshoumaru shook the thoughts from his head, his attention truing to his brother in the last second to catch his question, but of nothing else said. "... that she will be alright. Hey Sesshoumaru what did she give you anyway?" His voice tinged with curiosity.

Brining his attention to the pouch, he dumped the contents in his hand, eyes widening slightly. Inuyasha's the same. It was the Shikon no Tama. "This is the Shikon no Tama." He breathed in shock; not realizing his mistake then shook his head. "No not the Shikon, but a fake, she said so herself, but why would she want to give it to our father?" He mused aloud.

Inuyasha couldn't believe his eyes! She really did have the jewel, but why would she give it to Sesshoumaru? Why did she trust him enough, he then sighed inwardly, not she gave him a fake to give to their father. That did not mean she trusted his brother. It did not matter. This one was only a fake and not the real thing. He needed the real one. "Maybe she believes that something is going to happen to him that he is going to need it." Rin suggested. "She did say that it would raise a demons strength, so yeah, maybe she has reason to believe he needs it. I wonder why though?" She mused. Inuyasha never heard Rin's musings, as his eyes focused on the doorway that led towards the courtyard where Kagome had disappeared through only moments ago.

Why was she so upset, He wondered while unconsciously leaving behind a confused Rin and a knowing Sesshoumaru. Should I refer to her as family now? Sesshoumaru mused, and then snickered silently. One could only hope. Schooling his face out of habit, he gently usurer Rin to sit with him and enjoy the tea and biscuits prepared. It would not do to let such wonderful smelling food go to waste.

~*~

Kagome lunched herself into Miroku's awaiting arms, tears spilling fourth from her eyes as she tried unsuccessfully to quell them. She hated herself for being so weak. The monk upon seeing her in such a state had welcomed her into a brotherly embrace, perverted thought the furthest thing from his mind right then. He did not need to ask to know what was wrong with his best friend, and practical sister. Miroku knew instantly once he sighted the kimono she wore, it's light purple color and rose design painfully familiar, and he remembered the very first time he had seen her wearing it. The anniversary of her father's death. He began rubbing her back soothingly, whispering words of comfort in her ears as he recalled the very first time. He grimaced.

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The sky seemed to have been swallowed up by puffy graying clouds, and everyone that day seemed to be in a foul mood. They had already had the pleasures of Sango in their company, and she sat, subdued compared to her usual self, staring into her bowl of miso soup. She sighed, setting the bowl down, and leaning back her eyes staring upon the ceiling.

Miroku also took notice that his other companion wasn't in a much better state, which caused him to feel depression as well. For some reason whenever Kagome was down, Sango was down, and with the both of them down, he felt the worst of all. He wasn't supposed to feel that way! He had just conned them into getting the three greatest rooms of the inn, by spilling his usual sepal about seeing an ominous black cloud and needing to exorcise the grounds and put up odufa's and charms to ward off evil. As usual mission accomplished, and he was supposed to be relishing in the fact, not be down in the dumps.

Upon hearing a whimper coming from Kagome's side of the room, he took the time to examine her in hopes of finding what was wrong. She wore a very beautiful silk light purple kimono, with a rose colored obi as well as the same colored rose design along the bottom. He wondered briefly why she wore it when it was only going to be ruined from their travels. She looked very beautiful, but very sad as well. Upon closer inspection, Miroku noticed a trail of tears down her cheeks and gasped. "Kagome-chan?" He inquired softly, dropping the -sama out of concern for her. "What is wrong, what would have you in tears?" He propped himself upon his knees and crawled over to her. Sango hearing the conversation also turned to pay attention, she too was curious as to what could possibly make her strong friend cry. Granted they have only be traveling together for a few months, but to Sango it already felt like they were sisters, and for her to be depressed about something and not confide in her about it, left the ex-Taijiya feeling somewhat the same.

Kagome wiped the tears away with the edge of her sleeve, feeling stupid for having cried in front of them. "I'm sorry." She whispered, "I did not mean to bother you."

Both of her companions eyes widened in shock, they had not expected an answer like that. "Kagome-chan, please, we're your friends, when you're upset we want you to bother us!" Sango cried in outrage, calming down she softened her tone. "We have been very worried about you, as you have not been yourself the entire day and know you're in tears! Please Kagome-chan, please tell us what is wrong." The Taijiya demanded pleadingly.

Kagome lifted her head up to look at Sango, and the Miroku, seeing in both of their gazes true worry and concern for her. As the last ounce of her control exerted itself, the young miko through her body to Sango in an embrace, as she was closest, only to burry her head in her shoulder and cry. Sango made soothing circular motions on her back, and Miroku proceed to do the same.

"Please, Kagome-chan, tell us what is wrong, we only want to help you." Miroku persisted softly. He really hated seeing Kagome in such pain. It was almost, or maybe just, as bad as when Kikyou herself fought Kagome not too long ago insisting that her family believes her to have betrayed them.

Kagome nodded against Sango's shoulder. "You know how Naraku killed my father?" She question. Both Sango and Miroku shared a look of pure dread as they nodded; she waited a few more moments before continuing. "Today is the anniversary of the day he died. My father has been dead for three years, and on this day for those three years I wear this kimono. It was the last gift he had ever given me." She explained, as she let out another heart wrenching sob. "And the worst thing is that I have still yet to claim revenge of Naraku for what he has done to my father or even the rest of my family."

Sango began rocking back in forth, tears in her own eyes while Miroku was on the verge himself. They both hated seeing their friend like this. She is a kind, pure, and good spirited girl, and did not deserve this kind of pain and torture on her soul. "Kagome do not worry." She replied in a deadly soft voice. "We will get Naraku for this and everything else he has done. You will have your revenge." She said in the same tone, with deadly conviction.

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Miroku rubbed her back for a while, while shushing her. Once she had calmed down enough to where her tears ceased to flow, except for the occasional shuddering breath, the monk went on to say something. "It's okay Kagome, everything will be alright." He assured. "Shush now, and dry those tears." He commanded softly, concern edging his voice. "I want to see you smile, you look so horrible when you don't, you know." He teased rising a brow suggestively when she pulled back to look at him. It had the desired effect as she laugh softly, her smile returning.

Before she frowned, her eyes watering a bit. "Miroku, I miss him so much." She shut her eyes tightly against the torrent of tears that threatened to unleash themselves, the pain in her voice unmistakable.

He brought her back into his strong embrace, trying to give to her as much comfort as he could offer. "I know you do, Kagome-Onee-chan." He whispered, smoothing over the raven hair upon the back of her head. Kagome's eyes widened at being called his little sister, but said nothing of it and continued to take the comfort he offered. "Now, do you think you can be strong for me today and dry those tears. You wouldn't want the whole castle worried for you, would you know?" He questioned lightly.

Kagome nodded her head against his chest. "Hai, I will, for you anaki." She whispered in turn. Miroku hugged her a bit tighter after she called him her big brother, his heart soaring that she considered him so. Miroku sat with her in his arms, petting her hair, giving her comfort for what seemed like hours until she spoke again. "After I start feeling well, we need to find Sango, we have some important matters to discuss." She explained, before letting herself drift of into a much-needed sleep.

Giving her a light kiss on her temple, Miroku lifted her into his arms as he headed toward her and Inuyasha's shared chambers. "Hai, I will Onee-chan." He whispered his reply as he made way towards his destination.

~*~

Inuyasha watched from the shadows as Kagome and the priest embraced, her tears soaking his monk robes. For a slight instant he felt jealously peak it's way through, but snubbed it after hearing the monk refer to her as his sister. He mentally berated himself, Feh, I don't really give a damn is she likes the monk! He growled within his head.

Yes you do, His mind argued back. Because you are starting to like her! You idiot! The voice in the back of his head berated.

No! I do not! I can't stand her! Before the voice could make another comeback to his claims, Inuyasha mentally killed him. Though he knew it was only a temporary fix, it would work, for now. He turned his attention to why she had been crying. He, in all of his life, had never imagined the fiery girl to cry like that. She always seemed too tough, so invulnerable, except the night he had watched her sleeping. To see her in pain, to see her so sad, it made him feel something strange. He wanted very much to take the monks place and be the one to comfort her, he wanted to rip the one who caused her such pain to shreds. Taking a deep breath he tried to contain the anger he was invoking in himself, before he did something stupid that he would regret. Like ripping down half the palace to fill his need to decimate the...

See! The voice shouted in glee. You do like her, and very much so, no denying it now!

Inuyasha sighed; he had thought he was ride of the stupid voice. Deciding to kill it later, he bounded off to fallow the monk only to see what he planned on doing with Kagome's sleeping body.

~*~

A/N: Alrighties, finally I finished this chapter! It was a lot longer then the last one, but I thought I would be nice to all of you and write an extra long one this time ^___^ I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year! Mine was great; I got so much wonderful stuff. Awe, and just to let you know, the next chapter is being worked on as we speak. I hope to have it out sooner then usual... at lest I hope to anyways....

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Japanese Translations:

Hai- Means 'yes'

Anaki- I'm not sure if I have spelt it right, but I know that it means 'Big Brother'

Onee-chan- This together means 'little sister'. Onee means 'sister' While -Chan means 'little'

Youkai- Means 'demon' but can sometimes be translated into 'demon energy'

Hanyou- Means 'half-human and half-demon'

Inu- Means 'dog'

- If I have missed any and you haven't the slightest to what they mean please let me know and I'll tell ya ~K~

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Review Answers:

Shadowandhawk- Thanks for reviewing my story it means a lot to me!!!! I do that a lot too, I'll see a story that sounds interesting, or something and I keep seeing before I actually take the initiative and read it *Grins* But I'm usually not disappointed when I do. Thanx for bringing that to my attention!! When I get the time I will go back and fix my errors…

Amanda*- I'm glad you really like my story!!! U know what…. We've got's the same name!!!! Funny, ne? Whelp can't wait to here from you again…

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Xio the Dog Demoness- Really? You think it's neat!! Really, really, you love it! Really? *runs up and give you a hug* Awe you're just awesome! Luv the name too, where did you come up with it? *Starts running* I'm hurying, I'm hurrying… *pauses* Hey I just posted a new chapter, whatcha think?

Silverhawk- Love the name! *hands over cookie* That's for saying that you love my story, don't you feel special? ^____^ *looks around* Don't know, I've tried to make the spaces smaller but… *glares at computer* It just won't listen to me and do it! *sighs* Oh well, thanks for the review…

Thanks also to:

Gohan11

Kay Kylo

KagomeRoseWish