His breath came in sharp pants, his body rigid. Inuyasha stared wide eyed at the silver demoness and then back to the sword she was carrying. The one lodged in his throat. Her claws loosened from around his neck, and she slowly pulled the sword out, keeping her eyes leveled on him. Tenseiga, the sword of heaven, emerged without a speck of blood.

She dropped him and he let himself fall to the ground on his hands and knees, one hand shooting up to grasp his throat.

"W-why?" He rasped out around the anxiety that gripped his throat.

Inuyasha sat back on his heels, his ears back as he looked up at the demoness in shock. She was looking towards the sky, her grip on the sword impossibly tight.

"One time, I had an opportunity to save a boy." She looked down at him, the moonlight shining on her back giving her an ethereal glow. "In my anger, I placed the blame at his feet, for both of his parents were dead." She paused and moved her gaze from him to Tenseiga. "Now that boy has grown lost and lives a life full of regrets. But, if I had been there, maybe it wouldn't have been so bad."

Inuyasha was quiet, his jaw was clenched and his heart ached in his chest. He had always wanted to be a full demon, he thought it would have given him the pack he had so desperately desired. He had been proven wrong when he met Kagome, saw the way people gravitated towards her and he had wanted that, wanted her.

"That doesn't answer my question," he gestured towards the sword.

She gave him a bitter smile. "A new beginning. Had you not felt remorse for your actions, then it would have been my claws that pierced you." She looked away from him and towards the moon. A cool breeze lifted her hair around her and fluttered the silk kimono she wore.

"If you had felt no remorse, if you were truly hopeless, then it would have been my duty to end you. A just punishment for us both."

Inuyasha sighed and looked down at the grass. He could understand that, the only redemption one could do sometimes came in death. He paused, catching her words. "For both of us?"

She didn't look at him and instead changed the topic. "Were you not looking for the Miko?"

His eyes widened and he jumped to his feet. "I gotta find her!" He turned to sprint in the direction he had previously been heading but was stopped short by an iron grip on his arm.

"She is well, besides, were you going to leave your sword?"

Inuyasha glanced back at her in surprise, his brows narrowing after a moment. "How do you know?" He ignored the jab about his sword.

"There is much you do not know, but for now know that she is safe. You must follow me back and listen to every word this one says, do you understand?"

Inuyasha bared his teeth in a silent snarl, his instincts rallying him to assert his place as alpha. The demoness however, was prepared.

"Now now pup, don't look at me like that." That earned a growl from Inuyasha. "Do you truly believe you have the power to overcome me? This one has been alpha bitch for longer than you've been alive." As she spoke, Inukimi brought her fan out and fluttered it gently, the razor sharp edge catching the moonlight. Her expression remained passive but her jaki began to swirl around her and expand outwards.

Inuyasha flexed his claws and crouched, raising his own jaki in an attempt to buffer her power away. It was smothering, just like Sesshomaru's was.

"What do you want?" He bit out, annoyed. She had already bested him once, and easily. He was fully aware of the difference in their power but that didn't mean he was going to be any less stubborn.

"Compliance. Obey and you shall see her again."

Inuyasha took a threatening step forward, hackles rising. "You can't keep me from her!" Before he knew it, Inuyasha found himself on the floor, his nose firmly against the dirt.

"You threaten your alpha pup? Do you like to make your life harder than it needs to be?" Inukimi had her foot on his back, and to a casual observer it would have seemed like little to no force was placed on the hanyo, the only thing that gave away her power over him was his thrashing form, unable to even lift her foot.

After a few moments he stilled, huffing in annoyance, the fight dying from him. "Do you swear it?" the question was loud in the stillness of the forest.

Inukimi studied him, her head tilting to the side. "This one does not lie."

Against his better judgment, Inuyasha nodded and forced himself to relax under her. The weight of her boot disappeared and he sprang to his feet, eyeing her impatiently.

"Well then let's get on with it lady." He sheathed Tessaiga and crossed his arms over his chest.

"My lady" she corrected, eyeing him up and down.

He let out a weak 'keh' but didn't argue. A smile tilted at her lips and she gestured for him to follow once more. "Come, son of my mate. There is much to discuss."

TBTW

The moon was nearing the horizon when Inukimi returned to the palace. Even with the long night of travel her hair was immaculate and her silks pristine. Golden eyes watched as servants padded quietly across the halls to perform their duties, taking note of a few who seemed especially exhausted. A bob of forest green hair caught her eye and Inukimi stepped in her path. The servant bowed at the waist, not meeting her gaze and spoke.

"My lady, how may I be of service?" Her voice was low, the green locks of her hair swaying slightly.

"Tori, was it?" Inukimi observed as the maid stiffened slightly before nodding her head in confirmation.

"Yes, my lady."

"Look at this one."

There was a great deal of hesitance in Torri, but ultimately, she did what she was told. Her green eyes looked at Inukimi's face, but still she refused to make eye contact.

"Your devotion shall be rewarded. You and the rest of your group may take the day off. The lady kami was delighted by your presence." Torii's green eyes widened and a slight smile formed on her face before she bowed her head once more.

"Thank you, my lady!" Appreciation and awe lined her voice.

Inukimi looked away and down the dark hall, the servants that had stilled spurring into motion once more. She began to walk away before pausing, her eyes still looking ahead.

"You and yours have brought honor to the west." The air around her stilled and the servants that were near had frozen in shock. She continued to walk, pretending not to notice their state of disbelief. She had given those that helped the new kami a high praise, one not often received by anyone, let alone a servant. Of course she had her reasons. They did good, yes, but most importantly, it would help further show the seriousness of the matter. There were those that still foolishly doubted the new kami, but by praising a mere servant for their respect, it would undermine those of more prestigious blood and highlight their error any time they chose to speak up. A devilish smirk tilted her painted lips and she was tempted to laugh.

Her time in politics was long and full of drama. These were the situations she needed to make in order for her to succeed at the game. It was one she quite enjoyed playing.

Inukimi slid her furs closer to her as she climbed the stairs, her mind drifting off to her son. The weight of the sword on her hip grew heavier as she approached his study, and she wondered how willing he was to trust her. But even then, his tolerance only went so far.

As she approached the large doors of his study, she reined her jaki in tight, making sure not a hint of her scent or emotion was able to escape. Inukimi didn't bother knocking, she simply swung the door open and was immediately face to face with Sesshomaru. His features were blank but she could detect the slightest turbulence in his power. Without a word she approached him, gripping the sword of heaven on her hip and offering it to him with a slightly tilted head. A sign of good will.

Sesshomaru didn't immediately take the sword, so she looked up and met his narrowed golden gaze. He looked back at the sword and took it carefully.

"This one thanks you mother, for returning my inheritance unscathed." Sesshomaru shifted his gaze to the sword, making sure it actually was without a blemish. It's not that he cared for the sword that greatly, but it would have given him as clue as to what happened.

"Of course my forever formal son." She tilted a brow at him and he sighed, sheathing the sword in one fluid motion. He turned away from her then and went back towards the window, once again staring at Kagome's shrine.

"I wonder, my dearest son, how long you've been looking at her."

"My duty is to protect her, if it pleases me, I shall stand watch all night." His reply was quick and Inukimi smiled wide. The pieces were falling in her favor.

"You must be terribly distracted to slip up in such a way, Sesshomaru." She walked towards him as she spoke, her gaze intent. Her son made no move, but she wondered if he had caught his error. "After all, it was not your duty beforehand, now was it?" The air around them grew still, but Inukimi was not going to let Sesshomaru ignore her again.

"I remember when she first started visiting, the smiles and well wishes she dotted on everyone." She turned her back to Sesshomaru and began to wander his study, picking at books or glancing at ornaments that hung. "She was so sweet, she had to be after something. She had to have wanted something out of someone. Out of you." She still didn't look towards Sesshomaru, but she felt the beginning of his anger peek through.

"She spent far too much time with Rin, of course I worried. After all, my dearest granddaughter is too pure to notice any wicked tricks a filthy human could have had." Inukimi paused as she felt eyes on her, and she dared to meet Sesshomaru's smoldering gaze.

"But then I realized something." She walked towards him slowly, bringing her sleeve to her mouth to hide her smile. "She was just as innocent. Too innocent to even try to get something out of a lazy servant."

Sesshomaru's eyes were still a smoldering liquid gold as he followed Inukimi's movements. His hands in tight fists.

"So I ignored her. Content with the knowledge that she was too kind to ever be a traitorous bitch." She smiled as she saw his eyes flash hotter, a slight red forming around his iris at even the thought of insulting Kagome. The marking that adorned his face growing sightly darker. Inukimi paused in front of her son, lowering her sleeve and showing him her smile, knocking him off guard. "And when I looked back to observe her, you had fallen for her."

Sesshomaru's eyes widened in disbelief, caught off guard by his mother's antics. Quickly, he straightened himself, but he could see it was too late. Her smile had grown and she looked away with a shake of her head. "I had wondered why your bitterness towards your brother grew so strong year after year. What he did was atrocious yes, but now your anger makes more sense." She nodded to herself and ignored her son, pretending not to notice his racing heart.

"Speaking of Inuyasha, would you like to hear what happened?" Inukimi gave him an out, and Sesshomaru refused to let the chance slip.

"What happened." His voice was as stoic as ever, but Inukimi knew she had achieved her goal.

"Inuyasha heard news of Kagome's demise and was desperate to seek her out. He was in such a haste to track her down that he didn't even realize who I was." The silver haired demoness sat down on a pillow by a low lying table and motioned for her son to join her. She had already teased him enough, now was the time to be more delicate. Especially if she wanted her future plans to work.

"He seemed quite remorseful, guilty even. As if the weight of his actions had followed him night and day."

Sesshomaru said nothing as he sat down, instead choosing to look at the smoldering bed of coals in the fireplace.

"Something that I found odd.." Inukimi tilted her head to the side and recalled her conversation with the hanyo. "He said he was compelled to leave, and quite frankly, this one believes it." She looked towards her son and met his gaze, his brows slightly furrowed. She noticed how his lips twitched downward in angry disbelief before he looked away, back towards the remains of the fire.

"What makes you say this?" Sesshomaru was growing irritated, his patience with anything that had to do with the hanyo was already impossibly slim. Now, he also had his mother's antics to deal with. He knew she was up to something, but he couldn't quite confirm any of his theories.

They were all ridiculous.

Inukimi gazed idly at her nails while she thought of a way to word what she observed carefully. She knew Sesshomaru's patience was already waning quite rapidly, so it wouldn't do to have this conversation drag out longer than needed.

"He seemed quite in a hurry to return to her, as I mentioned. Entranced almost. As if the years hadn't gone by." She heard wood splinter but chose to ignore the sound. "It would not surprise this one if the kami had planned for this all along." She glanced away from her nails briefly to take in her son's rigid posture. "Perhaps, her time away from Inuyasha was needed for her…growth."

She leaned back and straightened her already perfect silks around her, picking at imaginary imperfections. "Of course, it is only a theory to take into account. His actions from here on out will truly show his intentions." The study grew quiet as they both contemplated their next words.

Inukimi continued, knowing her son would not ask the obvious question hanging in the air. "He was willing to give his life, so I spared it. Now, he repents."

Sesshomaru gripped the tenseiga, rubbing his thumb along the hilt of the sword. "He was unaware?"

His mother nodded and her gaze was far away. "He did not even notice it was the sword of heaven." She paused and Sesshomaru pretended not to notice her steeling herself. "He has spared this one from a cruel path of redemption."

Silence overtook them once more, and Sesshomaru had to begrudgingly agree with his mother. Inuyasha had, for once in his life, made the right choice. By accepting the possibility of death for his redemption, he had allowed his mother the opportunity to spare herself the heartache of killing her mate's son.

"I shall inform you of his progress should you ask. But his trials will be long and hard. This I will make sure of. He shall have what he wants in front of him, but will never be allowed to have it until he has proven himself worthy. The abandonment of his pack is a grievous crime, I shall make sure he too feels that abandonment from the only ones he cares for."

The conviction in her voice put Sesshomaru at ease. His mother had grown softer over the years, but her sense of righteousness was always backed by a fiery resolve.

"So be it."

TBTW

Shippo scurried down the hall, sticking to the shadows and glancing both ways at intersections. The beams of morning light that filtered through the windows were easy to avoid after he had managed to change out of his unnaturally bright, gold clothes. The fabrics that Kagome made somehow managed to draw light to them, and it made being sneaky almost impossible. Now he was dressed in all navy blue. It would be less obvious as to who he was at first sight, though he was still being careful just in case someone did recognize him. He stopped by a set of heavy wooden doors, the giant dog demons etched onto them making him pause. He studied the images carefully and noted that they were to scale. His eyes widened at the enormity of the inus, there was no way they could be so big. The door creaked open and Shippo jumped in surprise, meeting amused golden eyes.

"Our history intrigues you?" Inukimi raised a brow, a wistful smile on her lips. Shippo stared momentarily before flushing and giving his shoulders a shrug.

"Your artists must have had a big ego to draw you all so big." Shippo bit his lip. His mother would have smacked him for his tone. He glanced at the demoness warily and he was thankful that there was only amusement in her gaze.

"This one assures you, our history is accurate." He caught the hidden words underneath, they were that large. He didn't have time to be amazed, Inukimi ushered him inside and he took in the sight of the room. It was completely empty besides a low table and pillows scattered about. Tea was already served and Rin was smiling at him over the brim on her cup. He bounded forward, a grin on his face in greeting. She nodded at him, and Shippo couldn't help but compare the differences between her younger self and now. She had grown, that was obvious, but she also seemed more calm, peaceful. Shippo knew though, that she would get just as excited as she used to, she just held it in better.

He noted her pale blue kimono and the west's symbol etched over her heart, signifying she was part of the royal family. She didn't wear those types of kimono often, unless for travel. She caught him staring and she motioned for him to sit next to her, offering him some tea.

"I'm not going anywhere." She spoke softly and Shippo turned confused eyes to her. "My lord is going to leave and," she hesitated, her eyes looking towards Inukimi in a silent plea.

"Some have to be reminded." Inukimi sipped her tea delicately, but Shippo could see the slight tension in how she gripped the decorated cup. "You saw how lord Shibata shamed himself?" She slid cool golden eyes on to him and Shippo nodded.

"He is not the only one who lets his pride stand in the way. There will be others, they cannot accept the fate that has befallen your mother, they still believe themselves better and her a witch."

Shippo's fur bristled in anger, his paws gripping the wood of the table tightly. This feeling was familiar, it was something that always happened at the beginning of their adventures long ago. Kagome was a miko, but she was still a woman wandering the countryside by herself. And miko or not, the humans they helped often held suspicions about her. She dressed like them and acted like them, but the girl was undoubtedly out of place, and they could tell.

"Calm, kit." Inukimi was staring at him with a hard look, but her eyes held understanding. She glanced at his friend and nodded in her direction. "Rin is not in any danger, she has been here long enough, but wearing our crest is a good reminder and deterrent either way."

Shippo let go of his anger in a shallow breath and nodded. He could kind of understand the delicacy needed in these sort of things.

"Since this one's son must uphold his duty, this one will be in charge of the west until they return."

He frowned, "then how are we supposed to...you know?" He made a kissing gesture with his hands and Rin stifled back a giggle. The silver demoness didn't laugh, but Shippo could see the mirth in her eyes.

"You are going with them, yes?" He nodded vigorously. There was no way he was going to let his mother out of his sight. She continued, "this one has a way to communicate over great distances. Keep me informed, and I'll let you know what to do." She moved her arm in a sweeping gesture and motioned towards another door. He blinked, sure that it hadn't been there before. He glanced back at the entrance and furrowed his brows in confusion. He had been certain that it was the only set of doors in the room.

Inukimi must have noticed his confusion and spoke to ease his mind. "The castle holds many secrets, some more tightly guarded than others." He nodded, accepting that. He knew kitsune were similar in how they chose to hide things.

"Come on out, he won't bite your ear off." Inukimi spoke towards the new door and Shippo froze at the sound of a very familiar 'keh'. He swung his big green eyes to her in betrayal and then glanced back at the new door, his heart pounding in his chest. Inuyasha had never hurt them, but Shippo couldn't let go of the feeling of abandonment.

Shippo jumped to his feet, his chest rising and falling with his heavy breaths. Red entered his vision, and he bared his teeth in a snarl. Inuyasha stood by the door, hands in pockets and an awkward air around him. He shifted from food to foot, and Shippo didn't let up on his glare.

"Hey, runt." His tone made Shippo pause, and he eyed Inuyasha skeptically. He didn't miss the way Inuyasha ran his eyes over him, checking his health, and it made him even more angry.

"Why are you here," even he was surprised at the ferocity in his tone, and it seemed that he wasn't the only one. Inuyasha looked at him with wide eyes before glancing away, his lips pressed into a hard line. His ears twitched on his head, as if he were trying to force them to stay upright.

"Lay it on me, kid." Shippo paused, stunned momentarily before he launched himself at Inuyasha, his fists at the hanyo's shins. With every punch, he felt his anger rise and he bit back tears of frustration.

"You can't be here! You can't just walk back like nothing HAPPENED!" Shippo bit him and he felt Inuyasha tense under him, his own form going rigid and waiting for the pain of a fist on his head. It never came, so he bit harder and was unable to hold back his tears any longer. A cold hand was gripping his heart and he could no longer see through his blurry vision.

"I know." Shippo looked up, his eyes widening slightly. Inuyasha was looking down at him, his eyes shadowed by his bangs. Though Inuyasha couldn't quite hide the wetness of his eyes, the clenched fists at his sides shook in an emotion Shippo couldn't place.

Inuyasha sunk to his knees, his eyes closing and he let out a ragged breath. This was not going the way Shippo had thought. In his dreams, Inuyasha had always returned like nothing ever happened, brash and angry. What was happening in front of him though was the quite opposite of that. Inuyasha was too subdued, too calm.

"Listen kid-" Inuyasha cut himself off. "Shippo," he corrected. "What I did was wrong and I don't pretend it wasn't, but it wasn't because I wanted to leave you guys, I just…" he trailed off, golden eyes staring at the far wall.

"It felt wrong for some reason. I don't even know how to describe it still, I just know that I was right to leave, even if it hurt to."

Shippo glared up at him, his eyes softening momentarily before hardening with remembered pain. He bit out, " Kagome died because of you."

Inuyasha stilled, his pupils blowing open in fear as he rounded on Inukimi, "You said-"

She motioned for him to be quiet and Shippo made sure she felt his anger too. "She is well now. But," she hesitated briefly, "the kit does not lie."

Inuyasha didn't move, he hardly breathed. It was a long moment before he scooted back, his arms shaky as he leaned against the wall. He let out a deep breath, steadying himself and nodded for Inukimi to explain.

"We do not understand who did it or why, but she was protecting her kit."

Shippo felt their stares and he clenched the fabric of his dark hakama in his paws, his tails drooping behind him. Inukimi sent him a knowing look and he straightened, not wanting her sympathy. He didn't earn it when he had done nothing but hide when it mattered.

"I couldn't protect her. She didn't let me." Shipping lowered his gaze to the wooden floor, his throat tightening.

Inukimi's eyes grew in intensity as she focused on Shippo, silently urging him to explain. He had been reluctant to share the exact details, but she couldn't blame him.

"When her barrier went down, and she wasn't there…" He took in a raspy breath, his fists trembling at his sides. Every time her barrier went down, it was because Kagome deemed it safe, and she had always, always been there to tell him to come out.

"That's enough, Shippo." Inukimi waved him forward, a low growl coming from her chest as he leaped into her arms. She wrapped him in her furs, briefly meeting Rin's sad gaze. She motioned for Inuyasha to sit, and they sat in silence for several minutes.

"Why is he here" a muffled squeak escaped her furs. Inukimi looked at Rin, then met Inuyasha's curious gaze.

"To help this one guard. To make up for the wrong he has done by protecting part of his alpha's pack." Inukimi nodded towards Rin and Inuyasha's eyes widened, his scowl disappearing.

"If that bastard finds out I'm even near her, he'll throw a tantrum." Inuyasha gestured towards Rin, his uncaring facade overtaking his features once more.

Shippo looked between them, and even as spiteful as he was towards the hanyo, Shippo couldn't deny the fact that Inuyasha was right. If lord Sesshomaru even heard of such a rumor, he would storm back to the castle and kill Inuyasha on sight. His green eyes peered back up to Inukimi who held him, his gaze questioning. Did she perhaps think to have Inuyasha killed by Sesshomaru?

The pale demoness met his eyes briefly before turning her attention back on the red clad Inuyasha. "This one plans on having you live. And this will assure it."

She shushed Shippo as he furrowed his brows and opened his mouth to speak, placing her hand on his small lips.

"There is no doubt in this one's mind that someone will wish to harm my granddaughter," Inukimi flickered her gaze to Rin, and smiled briefly when the young woman remained impassive. "By having Inuyasha be the one to protect Rin, Sesshomaru cannot kill him. His honor would not allow it."

Understanding dawned on Inuyasha's face and he sneered, "so you're just using the kid as bai-"

A pillow smacked him in the face before he could finish and he glared at Rin, meeting her gaze and freezing. The sweet smile on her lips reminded him of Kagome when she was angry, and without conscious effort keeping them at bay, his ears pinned themselves to the back of his head.

"Are you implying that this one's honored grandmother would harm this Rin in such a way?" The buttery soft tone held a sharp edge, and Inuyasha backpedaled immediately.

"No- I just-" Inuyasha huffed and looked away. "Ah shit."

"Good then!" Rin's cheery nature was back and she sent him a genuine smile. "This one would be most grateful of your protection, Lord Inuyasha."

Shippo watched the interaction from the furs in Inukimi's lap and chuckled, his eyes never straying from the flabbergasted hanyo.

"Keh, yeah yeah."

"Very well, now that this is settled, we must plan." Inukimi set her cup down and gazed at them evenly. "It is obvious to this one that Inuyasha will be thrown from the castle if he's even rumored to be here."

Said hanyo rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath. "Obviously."

"So," Inukimi pressed on, pretending she hadn't heard him. "We shall give him a disguise. One of my more talented kitsune will be guarding the castle with this one, with him near, Inuyasha will simply be another guard in the army."

The room was quiet as they took in Inukimi's plan, each pondering the possibility.

"Yeah, that might work. Especially if that bastard isn't around to sniff me out. Illusions won't work on him." Inuyasha tilted his head back in thought. His golden eyes wandered to Inukimi who was studying him intently. "What?"

"In order for this to work, you must obey all your commands." The demonesses voice held no room for argument.

A snort came from the furs on her lap and Shippo popped out, his face amused. "Like he can listen to anything with all that echoing in his head!"

Rin giggled off to the side and Inuyasha snapped his attention back to the young fox. "Oi! I can too!"

"I believe he can," Inukimi sipped her cooling tea and flicked her golden eyes back up to meet his. "After all, he is honor bound to."

The room grew still and Inuyasha's demeanor shifted to a guarded calm. He didn't deny her words, and Shippo and Rin exchanged a quick look. Just what had happened for him to be here? And with Sesshomaru's mother no less.

"Very well. Until needed, hide yourself away. My jaki will continue to stifle your scent for several miles beyond the wall of the palace, you'll know when I need you to return."

Inuyasha nodded and stood, he gave one last glance at Shippo before going back through the door he originally entered. When it closed, it and Inukimi glowed red before the door disappeared.

It was silent in the room for a while before Shippo decided to speak up. "He doesn't know, does he?" The question wasn't directed at anyone, but Inukimi answered anyways.

"No, and he won't for some time."

It was better that way, Shippo thought as he stared at the place where the door had been. Kagome as a mortal had already been too good for Inuyasha, he didn't need to know that she had become a kami.

"Are you mad at this one, kit?"

Shippo looked up at the silver haired demoness, his brows furrowed. She stared at him blankly, but he noticed how she didn't stroke his fur or tuck him into her arm as she always did. He looked away, breaking eye contact. Rin was watching them intently, a hint of worry etched on her face.

Eventually he sighed and shook his head 'no'. "I can't be, I understand why it has to be done. Doesn't mean I like him though." he muttered the last bit and felt Inukimi relax slightly, her hand immediately going to his fur.

"Thank you, young one. Now that these matters are settled we must go and help everyone get ready for their trek."

Shippo nodded and bounded forward, ready to get the rest of the day started.

TBTW

Sango and Miroku glanced at each other as Kagome hopped out of her shrine, basically being pushed out by Hajime.

"C'mon didn't you used to travel a lot? I thought you would have been better at packing by now!" The spirit's voice was exasperated as he pushed Kagome with one hand and held Shippo by the other. "We're already late!"

Shippo flailed as he was held upside down by his tail, a scowl on his face. "Hey if mama wants to take longer she can!" He lifted himself up and bit Hajime on the hand, causing the spirit to drop him.

"Hey! Don't bite me I'm just trying to help!" He rounded on Shippo and the two started bickering back and forth, Kagome and their deadline completely forgotten. The sun was approaching it's peak and the air began to warm slightly, seeming to remind them that they were in fact late.

Miroku coughed next to her, trying to hold back his laughter at the two squabbling children. The sound drew glowing blue eyes on them and a smile blossomed across Kagome's face as she approached.

"Sango, Miroku! You guys ready to go?" Her voice was excited, and Sango was beginning to become accustomed to the choir of voices that echoed in Kagome's own when she spoke with emotion.

Miroku stepped forward, offering his free hand to help carry her things. "Why yes, for some time now."

Sango smiled at the sheepish look Kagome gave them and moved forward to help get her bags on the dragon.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you guys wait. I'm sure you're eager to see your children again."

Miroku finished fastening her bag to the other side of the dragon and spoke, "while that is true, we just happen to have better timing than you, lady Kagome." He quirked a smile at her, his purple eyes gleaming in mirth.

"Indeed, monk."

Sango jumped, then immediately tensed as Sesshomaru's voice fluttered from behind them. Miroku nodded towards the western lord in greeting and moved back towards her side.

"Sesshomaru!" Kagome practically skipped towards him, her eyes and skin glowing brighter. "Have you come to see us off?" She chirped, stopping in front of him and sending him a big smile. Sesshomaru stared down at her, silent as his eyes softened slightly and focused on her smile. The warmth quickly disappeared and he schooled his face once more, raising a brow.

Sango glanced at Miroku and realized he noticed it too. The way the demon lord looked at her friend spoke volumes, yet neither seemed to quite realize it.

"Take a look at this one miko, what do you think?" He tilted his head back hauntingly, letting her assess him. Kagome blinked and looked him over, bringing her hand to her chin. She hummed in contemplation and shook her head.

"You're coming? Why would you want to come? Don't you have to attend to your lands?"

Sango wanted to sigh heavily into her hands. She was slightly frustrated with Kagome, usually the girl was more perceptive. Kagome had been the one to predict many new relationships back in Edo, but she somehow always managed to miss things when it pertained to herself. Sango heard a slap of skin and glanced over to see that Hajime had in fact buried his face into his palms.

"Oh for the love of!" The curly haired boy threw his hands up and stomped over to the demon lord and confused kami.

"You guys are so bad at keeping your relationship a secret, no wonder your demon lord got so uptight at me wanting to even be near you!"

Sango's eyes widened and Miroku let out a chuckle, not even trying to hide his amusement. From the corner of her eye, she could see Shippo pull at his red hair and jump from paw to paw, as if unsure what to do. The kit settled on launching himself at Hajime and the two tumbled over, pawing and bickering with each other about reading the room.

Sesshomaru and Kagome, on the other hand, were still. Kagome had a furious blush on her cheeks, the red seeping down her neck and to the tips of her ears. She tried to talk but only managed to sputter out a few weak sounds before she was saved by Rin calling for her.

"Ladddyyy Kaaggommmeee!"

Rin's voice broke the silence between the two and Kagome moved away from Sesshomaru, her face still red.

"R-Rin! She reached her arms out and caught the young woman in a fierce hug, pulling back to smile at her.

"This Rin wished to bid you a farewell!"

As the two cooed at each other and said goodbye, Sango looked back to lord Sesshomaru just in time to see him turn away, a thoughtful look on his face. She glanced back at Rin and saw the lady of the west and general Kuro were also approaching, their pace more sedative.

Sango turned from the farewells and opted to ready the steeds, Ah and Uhn were already packed to the brim, and Jaken for once was quiet as he padded back and forth, readying the last of the items.

"Our journey hasn't even begun, and it's already quite interesting, wouldn't you say, Sango dear?"

She nodded moving a tad further away with Miroku.

"Lord Sesshomaru did not disagree."

Sango paused and looked towards her husband, his purple eyes swimming with mirth. He was about to say more when he looked behind her and paled. Sango followed his gaze and found lord Sesshomaru staring at them with narrowed eyes. She quickly looked away and fiddled with a random strap, trying to distract herself from his sharp gaze. Thankfully, they were saved when Shippo let out a yip of joy, his triumph over Hajime in their scuffle reflected proudly in his eyes.

"Shippo, come here." Without an ounce of hesitation he bounded up onto Kagome's shoulder and snuggled into her neck, hiding himself in her raven locks.

"Yes mama?"

Kagome giggled and pulled him back, looking her kit in the eye. "There's something I want to give you."

Kagome seemed to shine brighter, her eyes twinkling more. It was the same look she had given her and Miroku the other night. Sango stilled and watched intently as Kagome kissed Shippo on the forehead, her power pulsing around her. Sango felt her own mark heat up and she couldn't help but smile. Kagome pulled away from Shippo who was a goopy mess of happy tears. His tails were swaying behind him in a hypnotizing way while his eyes only saw Kagome.

"Thank you, mama."

She smiled at him and let him crawl back onto her shoulder, her smile soft. Shippo tucked himself away into her hair once more, his dark blue clothes blending in with it perfectly.

Kagome hummed and turned, her suddenly sharp eyes landing on Rin. She motioned the girl forward and hesitated briefly, glancing at Sesshomaru for permission. When he gave it, she smiled and planted a kiss on Rin's brow. Sango sent Kagome a prayer of strength, realizing that giving them blessings must have been somewhat taxing.

"There, now my children will be safe."

Sango let out a soft sigh, a sad smile on her lips. Yes, that's what it had felt like. As if her own mother was holding her, and the feeling that everything in life was going to be alright.

Rin was smiling from ear to ear, her expression joyful even as tears began to streak down her cheeks. Rin took a deep breath to calm herself, then with a quick glance at her lord, she bowed deeply to Kagome.

"Thank you, mother."

Kagome didn't seem surprised at Rin's admission, and Sango could only guess that she had probably known for a long time now.

"Of course, now how about a hug?" Kagome barely got to finish before she was smothered by Rin, their black hair intertwining in the chilled breeze that swept by. They stood like that for a moment, the wind ruffling Kagome's clothes as it swept through her dark blue hakama.

When Kagome pulled back she gave Rin a final smile and told her to behave herself. The young woman nodded in agreement, her smile sad as she let go and stepped back.

"Have a safe trip my lady." Kuro tilted his head, his red hair falling to frame his handsome face. His face was serious and Sango was sure he especially meant it.

"Come, we must make haste. This one wishes to arrive at Edo by nightfall."

Sango's brows raised at the tall order, but nodded nonetheless. It was possible, but she would need to give Kirara plenty of treats when they arrived for sure. A warm flame licked at her side and Kirara's meow deepened as she transformed, ready for the trip. As she and Miroku mounted the firecat, she gazed at Kagome trying to hop onto the dragon that was just slightly too tall for her. She looked away and pretended not to notice when Sesshomaru lifted Kagome up, nor the way she blushed and nodded at him shyly.

"Finally!"

Hajime leapt onto the dragon easily, sitting behind Kagome and shielding his eyes from the high sun. "Lets gooo!"

"Don't be so loud! I'm right here!" Shippo complained and held his ears, his scowl deepening.

Sesshomaru's glare didn't deter the two from arguing, and Hajime stubbornly crossed his arms and smiled, ignoring Shippo.

Without a second thought, Sesshomaru's jaki spiked, clouds beginning to form at his feet and he slowly ascended, allowing those in his party to keep up. The winds picked up as Kirara went faster, and before Sango knew it the palace was far behind.

TBTW

A clash of pink and purple adorned the sky as the sun began to fade. Wispy clouds swept the horizon and larger ones began to take their place. Kaede took in a deep breath, feeling the sting of the cold settle in. The first snow of the winter would fall soon, and still there was much to be done. At the edges of her senses she felt a prickle of familiarity, and another larger more engulfing feeling of serenity. It was a sensation that she had come to associate with Kagome. It had always been her aura, but now it held such encompassing power that she would have to be dead not to notice it.

Kaede made her way to the fire, setting down a pit of water to boil and getting her cups ready for tea. She went outside, covering herself fully in her coat to wait for their approach. The white haired demon lord landed first, his face blank and his appearance immaculate. Behind him landed his dragon steed housing Kagome and a curious boy. Sango and Miroku were last, shivering from the cold.

She bowed to lord Sesshomaru when he approached and offered her hut for them to stay.

"Ye look like ye in need of tea, come, sit by the fire and warm my old bones with your tales." She didn't wait for a response, turning into her hut and finishing up the tea. Kagome came in first, a large stretch escaping her.

"It's so nice to finally stretch my legs!"

Shippo hopped down and stretched in front of her, a large yawn ripping out of him.

The boy that came in next to her nodded and shook one of his legs violently, grumbling at the sleeping appendage. Sango and Miroku shuffled in quickly, their faces red from the cold. They relaxed visibly once fully inside, sighing at the warmth the hut provided them. Kagome plopped down in front of the fire and Kaede did not miss that Sesshomaru waited for her to sit before taking a seat himself. Behind her and to the left. She said nothing as she gave everyone their tea and sat patiently, waiting for them to start.

To her surprise, it was lord Sesshomaru that broke the silence.

"Is a shrine ready for her?"

She shouldn't have expected any less. To the point as always. She nodded and took a sip of her tea, the hot liquid spreading warmth down her chest. "Aye, it be ready."

It was silent for a time before Kaede decided to break the silence, a question on her mind. "Kagome child, ye seem… less bright."

The boy that sat next to Kagome chuckled and the goddess frowned at him. Kagome met Kaede's gaze sweetly and smiled, "Why yes, I am learning to control my powers a tad better. Also, having a barrier around myself helps. Is it less obvious that I'm…" She trailed off and waved a hand towards herself. She woulnd't have looked so out of place in her miko clothes if she wasn't glowing.

Kaede chuckled, her one good eye closing. "Yes child, it is in fact better. But it seems ye may have a long way to go yet." She leaned back and listened to Kagome's grumbling, smiling mentally at the young kami. She had faith in her.

"Lady Kaede, where is this shrine you mentioned?" Miroku's voice broke her from her thoughts and she chuckled.

"Where else young monk? Where it all began."

Kagome gasped, her eyes widening in realization. Her skin and eyes brightened with her surprise as she looked towards the left wall, almost as if she could see through it straight to the well.

"It was mine…"

It was silent for a moment before Sango caught on. "Oh! Kagome! You lived on a shrine didn't you?"

The goddess nodded numbly, her eyes far away. She stood without thought, her movements agile and graceful in a way their Kagome usually wasn't. Sesshomaru caught on quickly and stood, hesitant to let her leave the hut as bright as she was. A visible hue of pink surrounded Kagome for a second before it seemed to fall away like smoke. The barrier that she had erected around herself was gone, and now her light grew stronger.

Kagome stood at the door and everyone watched silently, letting her process the information. It must have been strange to directly affect the future in such a way. The light of the fire danced in the hut but it began to look faint next to the glow Kagome gave off. Her clothes shimmered, and it almost seemed a sin that she was in the mortal realm. She looked every bit a goddess even as frozen as she was.

After another moment she moved forward, still in a trance, and moved the bamboo mat away from the door.

"She will be safe here. Those here wish her no harm, let them see." Kaede mainly spoke to Sesshomaru who was trailing closely behind Kagome, but Sango and Miroku nodded in understanding. Shippo jumped up on Sango's shoulder, squinting at Kagome and motioning for the young boy that was with him to remain quiet. They all stood and filed out the door, watching as Kagome slowly made her way thought the village to the well. The sun had completely set and the sky was full of clouds. As Kaede suspected earlier, snow began to fall.

While they followed Kagome, they watched as villagers peered through their doors, gaping in awe at the goddess that walked among them. The light that was emitted from Kagome lit up a large sphere around her, illuminating huts and melting any snow that fell near. Kaede looked around, noticing that nearly all the villagers they passed followed them, none looking away from Kagome. Even as the snow fell heavier, they followed, some reaching their hands out towards the edge of her light.

When the shrine at the bone eaters well came into view, Kagome gave a soft gasp, her hand fluttering over her heart. Sango moved forward and placed a hand on her shoulder, supporting her sister in the only way she knew how.

"Claim it Kagome. You may not be able to see your family, but you'll be able to protect them." Sango gave her friend a final squeeze and stepped back when the raven haired woman nodded.

Kagome took a deep breath and began to walk around the small structure. It was simple, pillars having been put around the well with a small roof, but Kagome could see the beginnings of her shrine in the future from these few pieces.

Sesshomaru watched as Kagome walked around the structure in a tight circle, his mind racing. She lived in a shrine… how could she protect her family from here? This was a new shrine, her family wouldn't be anywhere near it. As far as he knew, she no longer had the means of visiting them.

His eyes widened. Was it possible? He looked towards Kagome and found her staring right at him, her eyes red from unshed tears. She stood in front of the well, her right hand on the aged wood.

'Yes, Sesshomaru' Her voice filled his mind and he started, almost forgetting that she was able to talk to him in such a way. She had never done so before.

Kagome tore her glowing globes away from him and walked more, her steps purposeful. The monk and slayer went to stand in front of the well, just far enough away so that her path stayed clear. They prayed at her shrine and Kaede joined in. Once she did, others came forward, still in awe.

Sesshomaru couldn't help but stare, the sight burned into his gaze. The miko, glowing in all her beauty and walking a path around the small shrine. The glow of her light touched the faces of the villagers nearby and they seemed to sigh in contentment every time she passed.

The ground pulsed, slowly emitting its own glowing light. It was faint, but grew in strength the more Kagome walked.

"Thank you."

Everyone looked up, watching her intently. Sesshomaru gazed at her before glancing down, he could see the land hold its own glow constant, similar to how her claimed land was in her home shrine. This one had gone much faster.

Kagome moved, catching his attention once more. She turned her back to them, her hand touching the new wood of the roof on one of its small rafters. She made a sweeping motion and her name lit up in gold, now forever etched on the wood.

She turned back, a smile on her gentle face. "I felt all your work in this. For the Kagome that you knew." There were a few gasps as their suspicions had been confirmed.

"Mori," Kagome met the gaze of a startled female to her left. "The love you and your friends put into the painting. Ochi," Kagome's gaze moved to a male on her right. "Your tireless effort of sanding down the wood." The male puffed up in pride, his grin wide.

"And so much more, from all of you. Thank you so much." Kagome closed her eyes and bowed her head to them, her appreciation plain to see.

"And thank you, for taking me as I am." She wasn't just referring to her new status, but also to the girl that had once been new here. Prancing around in indecent clothes and having a very different way of looking at things. They still accepted her as she was and always tried to help her on her quest.

Kagome let out a sigh and looked up, her heart swelling. She could hear their thoughts, and while she was a little overwhelmed by the noise, she had gotten better at making it more manageable. It was easier to do when they were nothing but positive though.

Sesshomaru watched as Kagome moved through the crowd of people, taking the time to interact with everyone. He stepped back, allowing the mortals room to awe at her. They were no harm to her, and if they were, Kagome would be the first to know.

Sesshomaru turned from her and gazed out into the forest, his eyes compelling him to the darkness. After looking at Kagome for so long, his eyes were almost unwilling to adapt to the pitch blackness of the night. He stepped further away from the haze of her glow and waited for a moment while his pupils expanded. A tingle went up his spine and he went still, gazing out intently and damning his eyes for not adjusting faster. He felt the monk next to him then, his hand tight on his staff.

"Just one."

Sesshomaru didn't look at him, he was still too focused on trying to find the thing that had his instinct riled.

"A yurei is near. Kuro could not sense them before." The monk's voice was low as he spoke, Sesshomaru growing more irritated that he could not spot the dark spirit.

"Can you lord Sesshomaru?" He didn't want to admit it. He didn't want them to know there was something out there that he could not sense, but he needed to.

"No." He tore his gaze away from the forest, and for a moment, he saw a shadowy face hide behind a tree. He snapped his head back, but it was no longer there.

"It's gone," Miroku murmured, his white knuckled grip on his staff loosening.

Miroku received no response from the western lord and when he looked up at him, it was to meet a fierce scowl.

"Stay near."

Miroku understood. Where there was one, there were likely more.

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Sorry for the wait everyone. I actually had most of this chapter written for half a year but school kicked my butt.

This seemed like the best place to leave the story, sorry if it seems to be at a weird spot for any reason.

To those who wanted Inuyasha to die : Sorry, I hope we can find a middle ground and that you can still enjoy it.

To those that wanted him alive: Tada!

Not quite as happy with this chapter, but I'm sure I'll find a way to tweak it at some point. For now, here it is.

Thank you for your lovely reviews. They really help to keep me motivated.

Stay safe.