Disclaimer: Inuyasha? Who's that? Oh! Wow, I didn't know. Nope, not
mine. *shrug*
Well, sorry if the last chapter didn't have too much more than the teaser. But I figured I'd at least let you all know what had happened. I did initially change who was defeated. When I first wrote it, of course it was Inuyasha, but then I figured, why not try something a little different. A guess you could call it a twist of my mind, rather than the story:P Anyways, here's the next chapter. And I'm updating regularly! Woo-hoo! Also, anyone who didn't notice, I updated Tears of Destiny as well. The next chapter should be up soon, I hope. Check it out!
If You Only Knew: Chapter 21
~*~ "Sesshoumaru-sama!" Rin ran, tears in her eyes, to her beloved youkai. Kagome hurriedly grabbed the child and pulled Rin to her.
"Please, Rin, please. It's okay, it'll be okay." The young one wanted to refuse these words. Her cries heightened and she struggled to go to him.
Kagome looked over at Inuyasha, who held his brother, while slowly lowering him to the ground. She couldn't misplace the looks of guilt, shock, and... sadness? in his eyes. She tried to hold her composure, though she was failing miserably. 'I felt it, I knew this would happen.' ~*~
Inuyasha laid his brother on the grass, his arms shaking as he removed the sword. He never felt such guilt on winning a battle in his life. This wasn't supposed to happen. Deep down, he'd always hoped that Sesshoumaru would get over his petty hatred, and they could act like the brothers they were supposed to be. 'Kami, this wasn't supposed to happen this way!' He punched the ground in frustration. The cries of his brother's charge echoed in his ears painfully as it constricted his heart with bewilderment.
"Kagome..."
The desperation, the silent bidding to turn back time and start over again, she felt it all with his gaze, with the sullen drop of his voice. Rin siezed her struggles, but continued to wail for all she was worth.
"Rin, honey, you have to be strong for Sesshoumaru-sama. Would he want you to cry?"
The child thought about it for a moment. 'Sesshoumaru-sama would never cry. He's strong... So I guess I have to be too, if he can't be right now.' Remembering the faultlessness of Sesshoumaru's ability to hide his emotions, she straighten up and let the last couple sniffles out. "Hai, I can be strong. I can be like Sesshoumaru-sama."
Kagome gave her a half-hearted smile. "I need you to stay right here and sit. We're going to take care of him, don't you worry."
Rin reluctantly sat down and nodded. 'I trust the pretty lady. Not that boy, he hurt my Sesshoumaru-sama.' She frowned at Inuyasha, although he was paying her no heed.
"Kagome... can you... can you help him?" Inuyasha looked at her pleadingly. He never thought he'd be begging his mate to save the life of his egotistical brother.
She sighed. "Inuyasha, go get Kirara. We're going to need her to carry him to the village."
"But his heart beat is fading fast, there's almost nothing left." The worry was consuming him. 'Worrying? Over this asshole?' Inwardly, he gave in, there was no way he could put up his arrogant face at the moment.
"I'll try and help him, but I need him in the village." Inuyasha agreed before he sped off. Kagome shook her head. There's no way she could find the wound with all the blood. She cringed at the thought, but she was going to have to remove the armour in order to help him. Timidly, she lifted his tail from his shoulder, laying it behind him. The softness of it made her want to giggle, but this was no time for it. Forbid he wake for some wierd reason, he is a youkai after all, and happen to catch her admiring his tail. He'd kill her on the spot just for that! After gently removing the clothing from his top half, she now had full vision on what she was up against. A deep gouge reached from his shoulder and then down across his chest. It got worse where the sword embedded itself, which was where most of the blood was pumping out. 'It missed his heart, but I have to stop the bloodflow, or he will die.' Ripping fabric from his garments, she used a large piece to first apply pressure to the wound. Blood still poured out from between her fingers and under her palm. 'Damnit, stop already!' She was startled to find Rin had creeped up to kneel beside them. She was watching quietly, but worry strained on her innocent face. 'One so young, should not show the burdens of such emotions.' Kagome tried to smile, but a rib cracked under her hand, causing her to yelp.
'Damn it! Putting pressure on it is only making it worse.' Removing the now soaked cloth, she pondered exactly what she should do. 'What is bleeding?!' She was starting to become unnerved until she heard the shallow rasping of his fighting breath. 'His lungs!'
Cursing her situation, she turned to Rin. "Honey, why don't you go into that treeline and pick some flowers for Sesshoumaru-sama? I think he'd like them." The girl looked at her reluctantly, but obeyed.
As soon as Rin was not paying attention, she reached her hand into the wound, cringing at how gross this was, how gross it felt... 'Oh why do I get myself into these things!' She couldn't see so she let her power guide her. First she found two ribs that were piercing the organ, pulling those free, she almost gagged at the sound of their removal. 'Why me, why me?!" (Mind you she has not taken them OUT of the body. Now, if there's any medical minds out there... I'm pulling this out of my a$$, so please don't dub me as a complete idiot:) More blood released around her wrist, covering the front of her blouse. 'Ugh, this is NOT going to come out!' She finally found the source of the blood pressure. Roaming around a bit, she noted two punctures in one lung, while a huge gash down the other. Closing her eyes, she gathered her strength, taking in as much energy from herself and from around her. Her concentration narrowed on those three spots, willing the wounds to close. Lastly, she placed his ribs where they belonged, ignoring the cracking as much as she could. Using more fabric, she constructed a bandage and wound it tightly around his torso, grunting as she lifted just his upper half and realized how heavy he was. At this point, she couldn't keep her eyes open, let alone hold herself up.
Rin saw the flash of light and ran over to the two. Watching as the woman wrapped him up, she sighed with relief. 'Sesshoumaru-sama will be okay!' Then Kagome wavered and she hurried to her side.
"Are you okay, pretty lady?"
"Hai, I'll be alright. My name is Kagome, you can call me that."
"That's a pretty name, Kagome-sama!"
She smiled at the little one, weakly. "Arigato." Inuyasha picked this time to show up.
"Kagome! Is he going to be okay?"
Her eyes threatened to close, "I don't know. We need to get him to Kaede's, he's lost a lot of blood." She decided it was safe to give in and let her exhaustion take her.
Inuyasha caught her swiftly from falling to the ground. 'I'm sorry, Kagome, that you had to work so hard. It's my fault.' He kissed her forehead and put her down gently. Moving to his brother, he hoisted him up on Kirara. "Go to Kaede, quick!" The firecat growled in understanding and flew off towards the village. He picked up his mate once again, nestling her against his chest.
He looked at the girl. "C'mon, you want a ride?" Rin looked at him with distrust written all over her features. Inuyasha grimaced at the accusing look, "We have to get them to the village, so we can help them both."
She glanced at the miko, sleeping in the hanyou's arms and concluded she had no choice. With a nod, she accepted the ride and got onto his back.
"Now, hold on tight. Don't let go." He grunted as her little arms cut off his air. "Not THAT tight." She released her hold a little. Dealing with it, he took off.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kaede raised her eyebrows at the load Kirara carried. "What is this youkai? Isn't he the brother of Inuyasha?"
"Hai, this is the mighty youkai, Sesshoumaru, himself." Miroku lifted the body from Kirara, relieving her of her transformation. He grunted, "And he's dreadfully heavy."
"Here, I'll help you, Houshi-sama." She grabbed the lord's lower half, while the monk carried the upper. They took him into the hut and sprawled him carefully on a mat. "What do we do with him now?"
"Leave him to Kaede-baba." Inuyasha stated from the doorway. "You can get off now,' he commanded over his shoulder. Rin hopped down and ran to Sesshoumaru's side.
"Ah, this must be the young one who travels with your brother." Miroku observed (how clever of him:).
"Sango, keep an eye on her." Inuyasha huffed before taking Kagome to the back.
"Oh, yes, your majesty." Sango hiped sarcastically. Kneeling, she asked, "Rin, do you want to go outside and play with the other kids?"
The girl gazed at the youkai, tears still threatening. 'He's still not awake...' She looked up at the exterminator, feeling utterly alone and clueless as to what kind of people surrounded her.
"C'mon, I'll introduce you to my little brother." Sango took her hand and led her out of the hut.
~*~
Inuyasha made sure Kagome was comfortablely tucked into her sleeping bag. He showered her face in light kisses, pressing the final against her lips in a silent thank you.
"Wore herself out healing him, I see?"
The hanyou growled out of annoyance. "Yes."
"May I ask who put him in such a state?"
"Who do you think, bouzu? I did!" He didn't have the tolerance for his questioning, he felt bad enough.
"And you're helping him?" Miroku could scratch his head in wonder all day and still not get it. One enemy helping another? It just didn't make sense.
"None of your business!" Inuyasha strode past him towards Kaede.
"He lost a lot of blood." He stated matter-of-factly.
The old woman nodded. "Hai, I see that. I will gather some medicines to help bring him back to stability."
Satisfied, Inuyasha went back to Kagome and shut the curtain behind him. Her scent permeated the room, but that was the last thing on his mind. Besides, it was mixed with the scent of his brother's blood. The sun filtered through the window, giving her an angelic appearance. 'My angel. Always there to fix my stupid mistakes.' He'd berate himself forever if it weren't for her. The moment she wakes, he knows she'll be telling him how it wasn't his fault, and how it'll all be okay. With Kagome, everything always turns out okay. Not a single bad event has ever left a permanent mark on her. His mate's strength in that respect is something he could never hope to acquire.
Why he even cares what happens to Sesshoumaru is beyond him. It's not like they have any type of family bond. But when he felt the contact of his blade, slicing through his brother, there was no mistaking the sadness that crept into his heart. He should be happy shouldn't he? He finally defeated him, that cocky bastard had it coming didn't he? Always thinking he was better, just because he is a full youkai. Belittling him, pushing every nerve to it's breaking point. Sometime's he was even as annoying as Naraku. 'I have every right to hate him. So why do I give a shit?'
Kagome shuffled a bit in her sleep. Inuyasha smirked. 'It seems, that she has rubbed off on me.' His Kagome, the girl who can never hate. One who would give the enemy a helping hand if it seemed a good cause in her sense. 'If he does make it, I'm never going to hear the end of this.' His hope, however, is that Sesshoumaru will just leave them in peace. Maybe winning the battle will show him that Inuyasha is not as weak as he tends to believe.
~*~
Morning came, and the youkai lord still slept. Kagome rested into the night, and through, until the suns rays caressed her face. Feeling refreshed, she sat up, stretching her muscles, and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Looking down, she frowned to see she was still wearing the blood splattered clothes. Well, she couldn't expect Inuyasha to change her outfit. With her being in heat, he probably didn't trust himself. He wouldn't have wanted to wake her. She mentally blushed. 'I wonder what it will be like? With his animal instincts...' Shaking such thoughts from her mind, she concluded it was not the time.
'Uhh... I need a bath!" She searched the room for her pack. "Oh, what am I going to do without modern shampoos?" She'd just have to manage. She pulled out the last of her bathing supplies and a fresh outfit. This one was not her usual school uniform, considering the last one was just destroyed, and she wouldn't be going back for more. She decided she'd be more comfortable anyway in a pair of cut off shorts and a light blue spaghetti-strap tank. "At least I thought to pack casually last time. If my uniform was the only clothing I could wear, I'd go nuts!" Still, she only had one other pair of jeans and two shirts, among other undergarments left. With a sigh, she pulled the curtain aside.
The hut was empty except for Sesshoumaru, still laying unconscious on the floormat. She cautiously walked over to his form. Seeing his shallow breathing, she was relieved to see he was still alive.
"He has not yet wakened, but his body has healed, and his energy is replenishing fast. He should come awake soon." Kaede stepped into the doorway, carrying a basket of herbs.
"What a relief! Thank you." The priestess nodded. "Where is everyone?"
"Your mother and Grandfather are out in the village, and Souta is playing with Shippou and that young girl somewhere in the fields. Miroku and Sango went to trade with a nearby village."
'Hmm. Those two are certainly spending more time together,' she thought with a grin. Kagome laughed, "I think I saw my family more when they were still living in the future!"
"I believe they're growing accostumed to their new environment."
"Hai. Where is Inuyasha?"
"Not far I'd presume. He left earlier this morning. Said he needed some fresh air." Kaede gave her a knowing glance, causing Kagome to blush.
"Ah... well, I'm off to the springs!" She left in a hurry, face still beating red.
Inuyasha watched her leave fromt he hut roof. He thought about following her, but then decided against it. With Sesshoumaru here, he didn't want another interruption. He'd wait until the time was right. So he stayed, allowing the heat of the day to lull him into a nap.
~*~
Kagome threw the dirtied clothes in a pile to be disposed of later. Slipping into the warm waters, she enjoyed the tingling as it cleansed her skin of blood. Reaching for her shampoo, she lathered her hair. Scents of lavender reached her nose, relaxing her nerves. Dipping below the water's surface, she rinsed the out the bubbles.
Taking her time, she soaped her body, lightly massaging her tired muscles. Unbeknowst to her, lustful eyes watched from behind a boulder. They watched her fingers glide across her skin, mouth watering to taste her. When she again dunked herself, he took this opportunity to make his move. Silently stalking up to the bank of the spring, then wading sleathily into the water.
Kagome rose, wiping the access water from her face. Arms snaked around her torso, stopping her from bringing her arms back down. She started trembling. 'A youkai...'
"Scream for your mate, and I'll slit your throat, girl." He hissed in her ear, his claws accentuating his threat at her neck.
Her voice stuck in her throat. 'What do I do?' One of his legs wrapped around hers, causing her to fall back against him. She could feel the fur against her bare skin.
Realizing he'd have to do this quickly before the hanyou arrived, he pried her legs apart, rubbing himself against her. She whimpered at his menstrations, bringing a gleem of satisfaction to his eyes. Pushing her forward forcefully into the water to stiffle any screams, he positioned himself behind her completely. Before he could enjoy his encounter, he was ripped mercilessly from his prey. A sword was slashed through his chest, blocking any voice with his own blood.
Kagome felt him release her and lost her balance, falling further into the pool. Finding her footing, she gasped for air at the surface. Leaning against a near rock, she caught her breath. She opened her eyes, which widened, as she saw who had been her rescuer.
Sesshoumaru sheated his sword.
"Sesshoumaru..."
"Again, Inuyasha left you alone while you're in heat." He shook his head.
Feeling she had to stick up for her mate, she retorted, "I was taking a bath! He shouldn't have to be by my side for everything I do." Self- consciously, she wrapped her arms around herself and sunk into the waters.
"He is not fit to have a mate."
"No! He is a wonderful mate! You have no right to..." The youkai pulled her roughly from the water. "What are you doing?!"
What was he doing? He had no intentions of doing anything to this human girl. The moment he took her from the water, however, all his senses were unobstructed by the spring.
"You healed me."
Kagome saw that her clothes were too far away to reach, and he stood in her path anyhow. He held her arms firmly, but didn't hurt her. Timidly she replied, "Hai, I did."
"Why?" He demanded, almost coldly.
'Why does he care? Why is he doing this?' Kagome tried to shift from his gaze, feeling all too vulnerable. "Because... because Inuyasha wanted me too. We couldn't let you die, not like that." She answered in almost a whisper.
"What does my idiot brother care if I die or not?"
"I don't know!" She screamed and attempted to push him from herself.
Her fear permeated his nose, while thoughts of her beauty wracked his mind. 'What am I thinking? This human girl beautiful?' But yes, he let his eyes wander her naked form.
Kagome swallowed heavily, feeling the heat of his inspection. 'Is he trying to decide if I'm worth... worth taking?' She felt tears welling in her eyes. 'Inuyasha lets me be independant. But maybe... just maybe I can't be.' She suddenly felt very weak. 'I can't protect myself from all these crazed youkai.'
"Why are you afraid." Sesshoumaru asked in his familiar monotone voice.
"Why shouldn't I be?" Kagome tried to make it sound firm, but it came out almost as a choked sob.
"Do you think I'll hurt you?" She refused to meet his gaze. "Force myself on you?"
Against her will, a whimper escaped her lips. 'I don't understand.'
"This Sesshoumaru is not weak. I have control." He released his hold on her arms. She took the opening to run to her clothing. As she hurriedly put them on, he stood there, watching her.
In a flash he was in front of her. "I will not deny that my body desires you, that my instinct is telling me to take you. That you are worthy of that, I am surprised."
Kagome huffed. "Worthy?" He grasped her chin roughly.
"Yes, I think you are. I make an offer."
She gulped. "An offer?"
"But I will not let you refuse."
'Kami! What the hell is he talking about?!' She pulled from his hand. "I will not except any offer from you, Sesshoumaru."
"You will. You will be my mate."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(a/n) Another chappy! Yay! Okay, need feedback, much love! R&R
Well, sorry if the last chapter didn't have too much more than the teaser. But I figured I'd at least let you all know what had happened. I did initially change who was defeated. When I first wrote it, of course it was Inuyasha, but then I figured, why not try something a little different. A guess you could call it a twist of my mind, rather than the story:P Anyways, here's the next chapter. And I'm updating regularly! Woo-hoo! Also, anyone who didn't notice, I updated Tears of Destiny as well. The next chapter should be up soon, I hope. Check it out!
If You Only Knew: Chapter 21
~*~ "Sesshoumaru-sama!" Rin ran, tears in her eyes, to her beloved youkai. Kagome hurriedly grabbed the child and pulled Rin to her.
"Please, Rin, please. It's okay, it'll be okay." The young one wanted to refuse these words. Her cries heightened and she struggled to go to him.
Kagome looked over at Inuyasha, who held his brother, while slowly lowering him to the ground. She couldn't misplace the looks of guilt, shock, and... sadness? in his eyes. She tried to hold her composure, though she was failing miserably. 'I felt it, I knew this would happen.' ~*~
Inuyasha laid his brother on the grass, his arms shaking as he removed the sword. He never felt such guilt on winning a battle in his life. This wasn't supposed to happen. Deep down, he'd always hoped that Sesshoumaru would get over his petty hatred, and they could act like the brothers they were supposed to be. 'Kami, this wasn't supposed to happen this way!' He punched the ground in frustration. The cries of his brother's charge echoed in his ears painfully as it constricted his heart with bewilderment.
"Kagome..."
The desperation, the silent bidding to turn back time and start over again, she felt it all with his gaze, with the sullen drop of his voice. Rin siezed her struggles, but continued to wail for all she was worth.
"Rin, honey, you have to be strong for Sesshoumaru-sama. Would he want you to cry?"
The child thought about it for a moment. 'Sesshoumaru-sama would never cry. He's strong... So I guess I have to be too, if he can't be right now.' Remembering the faultlessness of Sesshoumaru's ability to hide his emotions, she straighten up and let the last couple sniffles out. "Hai, I can be strong. I can be like Sesshoumaru-sama."
Kagome gave her a half-hearted smile. "I need you to stay right here and sit. We're going to take care of him, don't you worry."
Rin reluctantly sat down and nodded. 'I trust the pretty lady. Not that boy, he hurt my Sesshoumaru-sama.' She frowned at Inuyasha, although he was paying her no heed.
"Kagome... can you... can you help him?" Inuyasha looked at her pleadingly. He never thought he'd be begging his mate to save the life of his egotistical brother.
She sighed. "Inuyasha, go get Kirara. We're going to need her to carry him to the village."
"But his heart beat is fading fast, there's almost nothing left." The worry was consuming him. 'Worrying? Over this asshole?' Inwardly, he gave in, there was no way he could put up his arrogant face at the moment.
"I'll try and help him, but I need him in the village." Inuyasha agreed before he sped off. Kagome shook her head. There's no way she could find the wound with all the blood. She cringed at the thought, but she was going to have to remove the armour in order to help him. Timidly, she lifted his tail from his shoulder, laying it behind him. The softness of it made her want to giggle, but this was no time for it. Forbid he wake for some wierd reason, he is a youkai after all, and happen to catch her admiring his tail. He'd kill her on the spot just for that! After gently removing the clothing from his top half, she now had full vision on what she was up against. A deep gouge reached from his shoulder and then down across his chest. It got worse where the sword embedded itself, which was where most of the blood was pumping out. 'It missed his heart, but I have to stop the bloodflow, or he will die.' Ripping fabric from his garments, she used a large piece to first apply pressure to the wound. Blood still poured out from between her fingers and under her palm. 'Damnit, stop already!' She was startled to find Rin had creeped up to kneel beside them. She was watching quietly, but worry strained on her innocent face. 'One so young, should not show the burdens of such emotions.' Kagome tried to smile, but a rib cracked under her hand, causing her to yelp.
'Damn it! Putting pressure on it is only making it worse.' Removing the now soaked cloth, she pondered exactly what she should do. 'What is bleeding?!' She was starting to become unnerved until she heard the shallow rasping of his fighting breath. 'His lungs!'
Cursing her situation, she turned to Rin. "Honey, why don't you go into that treeline and pick some flowers for Sesshoumaru-sama? I think he'd like them." The girl looked at her reluctantly, but obeyed.
As soon as Rin was not paying attention, she reached her hand into the wound, cringing at how gross this was, how gross it felt... 'Oh why do I get myself into these things!' She couldn't see so she let her power guide her. First she found two ribs that were piercing the organ, pulling those free, she almost gagged at the sound of their removal. 'Why me, why me?!" (Mind you she has not taken them OUT of the body. Now, if there's any medical minds out there... I'm pulling this out of my a$$, so please don't dub me as a complete idiot:) More blood released around her wrist, covering the front of her blouse. 'Ugh, this is NOT going to come out!' She finally found the source of the blood pressure. Roaming around a bit, she noted two punctures in one lung, while a huge gash down the other. Closing her eyes, she gathered her strength, taking in as much energy from herself and from around her. Her concentration narrowed on those three spots, willing the wounds to close. Lastly, she placed his ribs where they belonged, ignoring the cracking as much as she could. Using more fabric, she constructed a bandage and wound it tightly around his torso, grunting as she lifted just his upper half and realized how heavy he was. At this point, she couldn't keep her eyes open, let alone hold herself up.
Rin saw the flash of light and ran over to the two. Watching as the woman wrapped him up, she sighed with relief. 'Sesshoumaru-sama will be okay!' Then Kagome wavered and she hurried to her side.
"Are you okay, pretty lady?"
"Hai, I'll be alright. My name is Kagome, you can call me that."
"That's a pretty name, Kagome-sama!"
She smiled at the little one, weakly. "Arigato." Inuyasha picked this time to show up.
"Kagome! Is he going to be okay?"
Her eyes threatened to close, "I don't know. We need to get him to Kaede's, he's lost a lot of blood." She decided it was safe to give in and let her exhaustion take her.
Inuyasha caught her swiftly from falling to the ground. 'I'm sorry, Kagome, that you had to work so hard. It's my fault.' He kissed her forehead and put her down gently. Moving to his brother, he hoisted him up on Kirara. "Go to Kaede, quick!" The firecat growled in understanding and flew off towards the village. He picked up his mate once again, nestling her against his chest.
He looked at the girl. "C'mon, you want a ride?" Rin looked at him with distrust written all over her features. Inuyasha grimaced at the accusing look, "We have to get them to the village, so we can help them both."
She glanced at the miko, sleeping in the hanyou's arms and concluded she had no choice. With a nod, she accepted the ride and got onto his back.
"Now, hold on tight. Don't let go." He grunted as her little arms cut off his air. "Not THAT tight." She released her hold a little. Dealing with it, he took off.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Kaede raised her eyebrows at the load Kirara carried. "What is this youkai? Isn't he the brother of Inuyasha?"
"Hai, this is the mighty youkai, Sesshoumaru, himself." Miroku lifted the body from Kirara, relieving her of her transformation. He grunted, "And he's dreadfully heavy."
"Here, I'll help you, Houshi-sama." She grabbed the lord's lower half, while the monk carried the upper. They took him into the hut and sprawled him carefully on a mat. "What do we do with him now?"
"Leave him to Kaede-baba." Inuyasha stated from the doorway. "You can get off now,' he commanded over his shoulder. Rin hopped down and ran to Sesshoumaru's side.
"Ah, this must be the young one who travels with your brother." Miroku observed (how clever of him:).
"Sango, keep an eye on her." Inuyasha huffed before taking Kagome to the back.
"Oh, yes, your majesty." Sango hiped sarcastically. Kneeling, she asked, "Rin, do you want to go outside and play with the other kids?"
The girl gazed at the youkai, tears still threatening. 'He's still not awake...' She looked up at the exterminator, feeling utterly alone and clueless as to what kind of people surrounded her.
"C'mon, I'll introduce you to my little brother." Sango took her hand and led her out of the hut.
~*~
Inuyasha made sure Kagome was comfortablely tucked into her sleeping bag. He showered her face in light kisses, pressing the final against her lips in a silent thank you.
"Wore herself out healing him, I see?"
The hanyou growled out of annoyance. "Yes."
"May I ask who put him in such a state?"
"Who do you think, bouzu? I did!" He didn't have the tolerance for his questioning, he felt bad enough.
"And you're helping him?" Miroku could scratch his head in wonder all day and still not get it. One enemy helping another? It just didn't make sense.
"None of your business!" Inuyasha strode past him towards Kaede.
"He lost a lot of blood." He stated matter-of-factly.
The old woman nodded. "Hai, I see that. I will gather some medicines to help bring him back to stability."
Satisfied, Inuyasha went back to Kagome and shut the curtain behind him. Her scent permeated the room, but that was the last thing on his mind. Besides, it was mixed with the scent of his brother's blood. The sun filtered through the window, giving her an angelic appearance. 'My angel. Always there to fix my stupid mistakes.' He'd berate himself forever if it weren't for her. The moment she wakes, he knows she'll be telling him how it wasn't his fault, and how it'll all be okay. With Kagome, everything always turns out okay. Not a single bad event has ever left a permanent mark on her. His mate's strength in that respect is something he could never hope to acquire.
Why he even cares what happens to Sesshoumaru is beyond him. It's not like they have any type of family bond. But when he felt the contact of his blade, slicing through his brother, there was no mistaking the sadness that crept into his heart. He should be happy shouldn't he? He finally defeated him, that cocky bastard had it coming didn't he? Always thinking he was better, just because he is a full youkai. Belittling him, pushing every nerve to it's breaking point. Sometime's he was even as annoying as Naraku. 'I have every right to hate him. So why do I give a shit?'
Kagome shuffled a bit in her sleep. Inuyasha smirked. 'It seems, that she has rubbed off on me.' His Kagome, the girl who can never hate. One who would give the enemy a helping hand if it seemed a good cause in her sense. 'If he does make it, I'm never going to hear the end of this.' His hope, however, is that Sesshoumaru will just leave them in peace. Maybe winning the battle will show him that Inuyasha is not as weak as he tends to believe.
~*~
Morning came, and the youkai lord still slept. Kagome rested into the night, and through, until the suns rays caressed her face. Feeling refreshed, she sat up, stretching her muscles, and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Looking down, she frowned to see she was still wearing the blood splattered clothes. Well, she couldn't expect Inuyasha to change her outfit. With her being in heat, he probably didn't trust himself. He wouldn't have wanted to wake her. She mentally blushed. 'I wonder what it will be like? With his animal instincts...' Shaking such thoughts from her mind, she concluded it was not the time.
'Uhh... I need a bath!" She searched the room for her pack. "Oh, what am I going to do without modern shampoos?" She'd just have to manage. She pulled out the last of her bathing supplies and a fresh outfit. This one was not her usual school uniform, considering the last one was just destroyed, and she wouldn't be going back for more. She decided she'd be more comfortable anyway in a pair of cut off shorts and a light blue spaghetti-strap tank. "At least I thought to pack casually last time. If my uniform was the only clothing I could wear, I'd go nuts!" Still, she only had one other pair of jeans and two shirts, among other undergarments left. With a sigh, she pulled the curtain aside.
The hut was empty except for Sesshoumaru, still laying unconscious on the floormat. She cautiously walked over to his form. Seeing his shallow breathing, she was relieved to see he was still alive.
"He has not yet wakened, but his body has healed, and his energy is replenishing fast. He should come awake soon." Kaede stepped into the doorway, carrying a basket of herbs.
"What a relief! Thank you." The priestess nodded. "Where is everyone?"
"Your mother and Grandfather are out in the village, and Souta is playing with Shippou and that young girl somewhere in the fields. Miroku and Sango went to trade with a nearby village."
'Hmm. Those two are certainly spending more time together,' she thought with a grin. Kagome laughed, "I think I saw my family more when they were still living in the future!"
"I believe they're growing accostumed to their new environment."
"Hai. Where is Inuyasha?"
"Not far I'd presume. He left earlier this morning. Said he needed some fresh air." Kaede gave her a knowing glance, causing Kagome to blush.
"Ah... well, I'm off to the springs!" She left in a hurry, face still beating red.
Inuyasha watched her leave fromt he hut roof. He thought about following her, but then decided against it. With Sesshoumaru here, he didn't want another interruption. He'd wait until the time was right. So he stayed, allowing the heat of the day to lull him into a nap.
~*~
Kagome threw the dirtied clothes in a pile to be disposed of later. Slipping into the warm waters, she enjoyed the tingling as it cleansed her skin of blood. Reaching for her shampoo, she lathered her hair. Scents of lavender reached her nose, relaxing her nerves. Dipping below the water's surface, she rinsed the out the bubbles.
Taking her time, she soaped her body, lightly massaging her tired muscles. Unbeknowst to her, lustful eyes watched from behind a boulder. They watched her fingers glide across her skin, mouth watering to taste her. When she again dunked herself, he took this opportunity to make his move. Silently stalking up to the bank of the spring, then wading sleathily into the water.
Kagome rose, wiping the access water from her face. Arms snaked around her torso, stopping her from bringing her arms back down. She started trembling. 'A youkai...'
"Scream for your mate, and I'll slit your throat, girl." He hissed in her ear, his claws accentuating his threat at her neck.
Her voice stuck in her throat. 'What do I do?' One of his legs wrapped around hers, causing her to fall back against him. She could feel the fur against her bare skin.
Realizing he'd have to do this quickly before the hanyou arrived, he pried her legs apart, rubbing himself against her. She whimpered at his menstrations, bringing a gleem of satisfaction to his eyes. Pushing her forward forcefully into the water to stiffle any screams, he positioned himself behind her completely. Before he could enjoy his encounter, he was ripped mercilessly from his prey. A sword was slashed through his chest, blocking any voice with his own blood.
Kagome felt him release her and lost her balance, falling further into the pool. Finding her footing, she gasped for air at the surface. Leaning against a near rock, she caught her breath. She opened her eyes, which widened, as she saw who had been her rescuer.
Sesshoumaru sheated his sword.
"Sesshoumaru..."
"Again, Inuyasha left you alone while you're in heat." He shook his head.
Feeling she had to stick up for her mate, she retorted, "I was taking a bath! He shouldn't have to be by my side for everything I do." Self- consciously, she wrapped her arms around herself and sunk into the waters.
"He is not fit to have a mate."
"No! He is a wonderful mate! You have no right to..." The youkai pulled her roughly from the water. "What are you doing?!"
What was he doing? He had no intentions of doing anything to this human girl. The moment he took her from the water, however, all his senses were unobstructed by the spring.
"You healed me."
Kagome saw that her clothes were too far away to reach, and he stood in her path anyhow. He held her arms firmly, but didn't hurt her. Timidly she replied, "Hai, I did."
"Why?" He demanded, almost coldly.
'Why does he care? Why is he doing this?' Kagome tried to shift from his gaze, feeling all too vulnerable. "Because... because Inuyasha wanted me too. We couldn't let you die, not like that." She answered in almost a whisper.
"What does my idiot brother care if I die or not?"
"I don't know!" She screamed and attempted to push him from herself.
Her fear permeated his nose, while thoughts of her beauty wracked his mind. 'What am I thinking? This human girl beautiful?' But yes, he let his eyes wander her naked form.
Kagome swallowed heavily, feeling the heat of his inspection. 'Is he trying to decide if I'm worth... worth taking?' She felt tears welling in her eyes. 'Inuyasha lets me be independant. But maybe... just maybe I can't be.' She suddenly felt very weak. 'I can't protect myself from all these crazed youkai.'
"Why are you afraid." Sesshoumaru asked in his familiar monotone voice.
"Why shouldn't I be?" Kagome tried to make it sound firm, but it came out almost as a choked sob.
"Do you think I'll hurt you?" She refused to meet his gaze. "Force myself on you?"
Against her will, a whimper escaped her lips. 'I don't understand.'
"This Sesshoumaru is not weak. I have control." He released his hold on her arms. She took the opening to run to her clothing. As she hurriedly put them on, he stood there, watching her.
In a flash he was in front of her. "I will not deny that my body desires you, that my instinct is telling me to take you. That you are worthy of that, I am surprised."
Kagome huffed. "Worthy?" He grasped her chin roughly.
"Yes, I think you are. I make an offer."
She gulped. "An offer?"
"But I will not let you refuse."
'Kami! What the hell is he talking about?!' She pulled from his hand. "I will not except any offer from you, Sesshoumaru."
"You will. You will be my mate."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
(a/n) Another chappy! Yay! Okay, need feedback, much love! R&R