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angeleyes20876 – No worries love of your review! Life comes and throws some serious curveballs. Now to your review…

You have picked up on every little detail I put in that last chapter! Kudos to you! I'm so glad to read your review because you give such detailed feedback. I know for sure if certain things that I mentioned in that last chapter that was caught like Kaguya's torn state of mind and Naraku's hidden agenda. If you don't mind answering…how old are you? You are very perceptive and I'm trying not to assume that you are an older adult…you could just be a very detailed oriented person or wise beyond your years….

As to your feedback about Naraku…yes! I wanted the dual nature of his character to come through so that you don't know who he's working for. I'm trying to keep him close to his persona in the anime while making his relationships with everyone feel organic. I imagined him to be very good with words and tricky even when he's not doing things to hurt people.

This next chapter is for you doll! I'm not even going to drag it out. You hit the money with your guesses. I swear you're so good, you honestly make me want to rewrite the whole thing just to twist you up. lol But love your review! Thank you so much for taking the time out always to be so thorough in your response. I hope things are well for you in this new year sugar bear! xoxoxo

Nyght Elf – I know you meant well and I am not angry with you at all. However, let me enlighten you for a minute. Please refer to the Author's Notes in Chapters ( 1, 18, and 34) in regards to your review as well as to answer your questions which I state very bluntly and clearly before anyone begins reading this "soap opera" style fanfic. I do not write author's notes for my health. If you still feel this is "dragging out" then you are more than welcome to unfollow this story or skip to the end when that comes because I plan on simmering these vegetables until they turn into mush.

My stories are for mature readers and for those looking for a little something more than just smut and adolescent short stories. I write to practice my craft because I am an adult writer and a published one at that. I hope to write for American drama/film eventually and so that is the style in which I write all my fanfics under. For more information about this, please read my profile page.

And please go back and read chapters 25 and up because not everyone knows what's going on. Everyone has only a piece of the puzzle just like you would see in a soap opera. I'm not angry with you at all or bothered by your comment because I've chatted with you before. I know you're coming from a good place and have a loving heart which is why I'm taking the time out to write to you like this. I do hope you stay with it and enjoy it as I do enjoy reading your funny comments! Hope all is well and to read you next time! xoxoxo

Shadow Walker - Please refer to the Author's Notes in Chapters ( 1, 18, and 34) in regards to your review. Thank you for taking the time out to review! Sorry to tell you but the next chapter is going to disappoint you so I advise you find another story to read my love. I'm dragging it out even more. (Insert Kanye shrug)

Alexis Knight – I know! I enjoy writing him so much! I just needed to build up to his grand entrance and it paid off. I'm trying so hard not to give spoilers but my friends have already read it via email and they have flipped out at what he's up to! Thank you so much girl! I hope everything is going well with you!

Delite – Thank you! When I read your name I kept thinking of this drink we have in the states called sunny delight. (my childhood nostalgia) Anyway…Here you go! Enjoy!

Tai – Your questions will be answered in the next three chapters!

Guest 1 –Thank you my love! I was bouncing in my seat as I wrote him in. And you too will get your answers in the next three chapters! Hope you enjoy this next one.

Youkai55 – You're so right. Inukimi does not need to die…besides…I like her too much to do that to her. This next chapter is just for you hun! Hope you enjoy it.

Madam Fluffy – I could write that in here somewhere as a freak accident. I'll think over your suggestion. :D This next one…you will enjoy!

Maigery – I know! We're slowly filling in these questions! I think next chapter is going to be awesome because another player is entering the ring. Muahahaha! Love your name btw!

kagomeLove2 – Right! I mean if Naraku wasn't so damn horrific as a living being he would be kinda cute…and bad ass. Right? Naraku is here now to push everyone into a head on collision. I can't wait for you all to read the mess that's about to happen!

Naraku and Kikyo! Ooooo what about Naraku and Kagome? Huh? Decisions….decisions…

Have you had Coq au vin? It's so good and so warm! I feel like a happy fat hog when I visit my mom to eat it. *rubs belly and daydreams*

AkaNeko-Sesshy –Right! Very few fanfics on this site write him as a decent fellow. There was this really really good fanfic (and by that I mean very good plot and very well written almost poetic) about how Kagome gets sent back in time to Naraku's teen years and basically changes his outcome on life. Like he still goes through the major big changes in his life but does it for different reasons. I'm going to find it. I think you will like it if it's on this site or it may be on AO3.

Roguekittiekat – I was telling Kagomelove2 that very same thing! I wonder how many people would be pissed at me for doing that…hmmm….

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Chapter 35: Chamomile

"That's the last of it." Kagome said as she handed over the last form she had to fill out for the American psychiatrist that would be finally making her debut tomorrow morning. Butterflies fluttered in Kagome's stomach at the thought of what was to come when she would sit down with the world renowned hanyou expert. Her right leg crossed over her left once again as she sat back to rub the back of her neck to ease her own discomfort and play it cool in front of the powerful demon Lord. The small chair she was sitting in quaked beneath her, mocking her current emotions. She tossed her pen onto the desk before her and shifted her black purse in her seat to keep her shaking hands busy with the intent to focus on quieting the jumping nerves inside of her. Kagome looked anxiously up at Inutashio, who took the paper from her hand and eyed it with the gaze of a lethal predator searching for anything left unsigned.

Kagome brushed her dark jeans of imaginary dust with thoughts wondering all over the place. The denim fabric suddenly became interesting as she studied the interlocking fabric that weaved together on her thigh. There was so much she needed to do when she returned home. She needed to clean the small apartment from top to bottom. The woman would be coming over to look at Rin's living environment. Then she would need to gather all the things Rin found to be her favorite and write little notes about what Rin did with those items like her yellow cardigan which served now as Rin's personal blanket and the cactus flower that she looked upon often like a child of her own. Kagome turned her gaze over to Rin who laid happily upon her belly, on the floor coloring with Inutashio's pack of highlighters. Her little hand scribbled with abandonment creating a contemporary piece she was sure Kikyo would be quite pleased with.

Her brown eyes roamed the floor with her lips set in a slight frown. Rin looked fairly innocent in her blue dress and denim jacket until the eye went an inch next to her little body. There you would find the sea of "sign here" red stickers she placed on the floors, furniture, and walls earlier that were now part of Lord Inutashio's office decor. They arrived with Inutashio at his office after lunch to make final arrangements for the doctor's visit and to fill out the necessary paper work to release confidential information as well as to protect her own privacy rights as well. Rin had gotten bored during the adult conversation and wondered off into his dark wood drawers with eyes filled with fascination. Silence cloaked Rin's activities. She had found the colorful red arrows and began placing them everywhere before Kagome looked over to see what she had been up to. Kagome tried to stop her but Inutashio insisted and even gave her more of the stickers and markers to have fun with claiming that he was already due for another order of office supplies.

Inutashio added the signed form to the stack of completed papers on the corner of his desk. He had taken it upon himself to sign a few as well, serving as an extra layer of protection should any information be leaked which he highly doubted. He had been working with the doctor for several years now and never had to worry about anything. But these measures needed to be taken for the little mother's sake. Kagome was a very private person especially in regards to her pup and he respected this greatly about her. "Excellent." He responded and carefully picked up the packet to place in his large hands. He looked out of his large glass office windows and took in the lowering of the sun that was setting behind a few of the other buildings surrounding them. He flicked his wrist to check his silver watch before taking a stand. "Now you and Rin should go home and relax. Both of you need to be as well rested as you can for tomorrow's appointment."

Kagome ran her quivering fingers through her wavy hair watching him rise to his feet and stride to the front of his desk. Even in the way he walked, he exuded an aura of authority and power that she suddenly found herself aspiring to. Whenever she came to the office, she felt this silent power he carried that reminded her of a hum in the ear. He was so sure of himself no matter where he went or what he did. She only felt this was in her kitchen and when she was helping her loved ones but outside of those aspects, she could never quite grasp that assurance. She looked at her hands that were suddenly wringing themselves in her lap and turning red from the increased pressure she added. "Can you tell me what to expect? Normally doctors tell you what they want you to do to prepare for their visit. But, she hasn't said anything other than the time she would be coming over. I'm a little worried." Kagome admitted taking a glance at Rin who moved onto another highlighter.

"You have nothing to fear. The doctor wants to simply observe Rin in her natural environment and what she typically does when a stranger is in the room. You have already answered the questions and wrote your observations and worries down for her which she has looked over. You don't need to do anything different until she gives her recommendation to provide you with knowledge and resources to aid Rin's development as a hanyou." Inutashio answered going through the stack quickly making sure nothing was missed.

Kagome bit her lip harshly and nodded in understanding. There was nothing else she could do, she suppose. Despite hearing his calming words of wisdom, it did very little to settle her fears and worries. It wasn't so much as what the doctor would say about Rin's development but more so about anything she hadn't done for Rin as a mother that worried her. She was very much aware of her limitations and drawbacks. Of course there were times when she cursed her younger self for not indulging in her grandfather's wishes and really studying up on demons and miko teachings with her sister. She was young then and had no inkling that her future would hold the experiences she currently had including raising a hanyou child alone.

Inutashio could sense her uneasiness and understood her troubles even though she did not voice them into existence. Raising a child while dealing with the blows life gave was no simple task. He imagined her to feel like someone that had been thrown into the Pacific Ocean and told to sink or swim. Her fears were validated. He himself had his many fears with his own three children over the many years of his life. Each one had their hurdle to cross and various milestones that aged him and replaced silver locks with long tendrils of grey. Even the doctor had witnessed a few occurrences with his two youngest children when they were in their teens. Back then, there weren't much information regarding the raising of pups of crossed heritage. And he was fortunate in the sense that he had the blessing of Izayoi and Kimi to go through it all with.

When he met the little chef that was mothering a pup and an adoptive one at that, he felt pride for the woman. Of course there were single mothers everywhere, serving roles of both mother and father in the lives of their children but very few young human mothers adopted demon pups. Quite frankly the Youkai Courts on every continent usually denied the request for such an anomaly to occur. She was doing such a wondrous task and managed to get permission to do so which was a miracle in itself. The brave miko-chef before him was shouldering this all and doing so alone. This clashed with his instincts and he could not just turn cheek at her plight. Not to mention his son's seemed to be dealing with the same sentiments themselves but for different reasons then his own.

He walked over to the young woman's side and placed his clawed hand onto her shoulder making sure she was paying attention. He did not speak until her eyes were focused on his. He could see where she had bit the layer of skin off of her lips causing it to swell. Her hand lifted from her lap and sat on top of his. It was hot upon his flesh revealing more about her current state of apprehension. "You and Rin will be just fine. You are an excellent mother and have done spectacular with the little pup. Think of this as just a checkup for you both. We are all in need of one from time to time." He said with a smile seeing the edges of her mouth began to lift. "And don't worry so much. Regardless of whatever she says, you are still Rin's mother and I will be there along with everyone else to help you in any way you need. Relax."

Kagome nodded leaving his wisdom to fill the space between them. She squeezed his hand in acknowledgement and let go. She watched him pull away and move back to his desk to clip the papers together with a black paper clip and place them in the protective brown envelope. She took a big inhale of fresh air to clear her body of the jitters before she stilled in her chair. Kagome felt someone approach. A very…odd aura of sorts took leisurely steps outside from the elevator.

Thump, Thump, Thump

The undiluted power that wrapped around the being was evident and was set to the circadian rhythm that governed all of life. She could feel it in the tips of her fingers that pushed against her reiki. Her body turned in her seat to see who it was that paraded around with such strength without caring about how other's would feel. Even the Tashio's kept their aura's muffled from society and didn't walk around parading their strengths to the public. Her hands gripped the edge of the chair as she titled her head and moved her legs to uncross themselves. Her feet planted firmly on the floor as she debated reaching for Rin or not. She didn't realize she was staring until the Inu Lord came around to answer the door before a knock was administered.

Inutashio began speaking as soon as the door opened in the Inu dialect that she recognized which captured her interest. She looked down to see Rin had stopped coloring and was lying low on her belly while looking up at the door with slight curiosity most likely from the language she was hearing. Kagome curiously looked to see a demon with bright red eyes walk into the spacious office wearing an impeccable black suit and tie. His face was smooth with curly bangs that covered his forehead. His cheeks were naturally contoured at an angle that left shadows upon his pale flesh. His muscular tall build could be seen from the lines of the suit and spoke of a lifestyle that involved a rigorous workout regimen. She watched his eyes scan the room until they fell on her.

Goosebumps ghosted her arms and a shiver ran up her spine as the edges of his aura brushed against her skin. His eyes seemed to hold her captive for a minute. A strange sensation coursed through her as she too searched his gaze for something she didn't know. He finally looked away to her daughter who had sat up on her knees. Kagome politely stood and moved protectively closer to her pup being mindful to not step on anything. A courteous smile grew on her lips as she took in the two demons before her waiting for an introduction as to who this strange demon was. She was a bit baffled to see she wasn't about to get one from the Lord. Inutashio's expression seemed to harden and he dug into his pockets for his phone. Without further word, he dialed a number and stepped into the hallway with the small device up to his ear and closed the door behind him sealing the two strangers inside.

The demon casually walked further into the room and smiled politely before pointing behind him at the door that Inutashio stepped out of. "I do apologize for the interruption. Duty called..."

Kagome crossed her arms over her chest and stood with her right foot forward and her left foot back. She could feel Inutashio on the other side of the door pacing despite not being heard speaking. Whatever the phone call was about, he needed privacy. She could feel his calming aura that now held remnants of agitation in it. "It must have been pretty upsetting." She voiced taking in the rather handsome demon.

"Depends on outcome." He responded with a lift of the corner of his mouth. "I'm sorry, where are my manners. I'm Naraku Onigumo, public relations department." He introduced placing his hand over his chest and bowing slightly. "And you two must be his lovely new assistants he was supposed to be hiring this week." He humored nodding towards Rin who sat stiff staring at him, holding onto her highlighter and drawing protectively.

Kagome smiled taking his attempt to lighten the mood as a sign of peace despite the slight shake in her bones. The demon male before her named Naraku was sultry in essence. He stood before her like a man on some red carpet looking about the room as if he had been here many times and was reacquainting himself. His smile was infectious and he moved with the elegance that Sesshomaru seemed to master. Slowly, she raised her hand for him to take politely. "I'm afraid you pegged me wrong. I'm Kagome." She introduced watching him carefully as he took her hand lightly and shook with a grin. "And this is my daughter, Rin. We're just visiting friends of the family." Rin stood up quickly having heard her name and rushed to her mother's legs to hold on while staring up at the strange man. Her paper was held in her left at a carful angle she that it wouldn't crinkle.

Naraku smirked and looked to the little girl with a tilt of his head as if inspecting a new discovery. He took in the strong bond between the mother and pup as well as the variety in their scents of fresh flowers and jasmine. He glanced at the little pup briefly despite the desire to stare at the ghost of his past that he could see in her features. Her brown hair and the shape of her face was that of her late mother's but her eyes and the pout that settled upon her thin lips mirrored that of her late father. The speckles of strength that had been passed from her father was there lying dormant inside her own little eyes that stared up at him with uncertainty. And she had every right to be wary of him. Those that made the mistake to not heed that warning, usually found out very quickly the error in their ways.

He regarded Kagome, taking in her disposition and protective stance. The warning of reiki sparked lightly against his face and he could taste it upon his tongue. In the past he would have challenged her for that power to work in his favor. It was no secret that great reiki resided in the Higurashi Clan. He himself had tried to manipulate their ancestors into aiding him in acquiring a jewel that would have promised him much power and strength back in the day. A frustrating endeavor that never came into fruition and left him quite fuming and disfigured for some time thanks to their meddling ancestor Midoriko. He was humored to see the fire that burned in the battle priestess eyes had been passed down her line. The protective nature was there in Kagome that also burned brightly in her older sister's gaze as well. Time and history never ceased to amaze him.

The bond between the woman and child was bright and unabashedly strong allowing anyone with a sixth sense to see their relationship. Rin was pulling upon Kagome's aura like a lifeline and the miko obliged while wrapping her protectively in pink light to calm the young pup. He casually took a step back putting comfortable space between them with practice as he gathered the information he came to acquire. "It's a pleasure to meet you both, ladies." He spoke glancing from her to Rin and back again. "And I've heard a great deal about you Chef Kagome."

Kagome inhaled sharply at his recognition of her. She didn't think he would know her since she just gave him her first name. "I hope it has been mostly positive things."

Naraku's smile never faltered as he peered behind her at the oranges and pinks of the setting sun shining behind them. His posture relaxed some at the reminder of the time and the meaning of the hour. He could not linger this afternoon unfortunately due to other engagements. He had to make this quick. "Surprisingly enough, Sesshomaru hasn't said anything negative." He said tapping his chin in wonder as if contemplating conversations and memories. "He's quite protective of you actually."

"What?" Kagome laughed nervously with confusion. She was taken aback for him to drop Sesshomaru's name in the conversation and for him to even speak on her name being brought up in conversation from the arrogant demon. It didn't make sense why he would be speaking about her. "Yeah, right! As if he talks about me! He's probably told you how annoying I am."

"Well you're in for a surprise. You will come to learn it's not what Sesshomaru says that you need to pay attention to but what he does." Naraku advised shoving his hands into his pockets. "And as much time he spends with you and Rin, I wouldn't call you annoying." He said nonchalantly watching as the young woman physically waved his words away with her hands. He was humored to see her growing ever so flustered at his words. A light blush tinted her cheeks yet her eyebrows drew downward as if logically working out the topic in her head. He watched as she bent to pick the young pup into her arms obviously using the pup as a distraction method. Naraku took in her response and smirked at the possibilities afforded to him. She reaffirmed the methods of madness that he was using to put his plans into action. "You're very special to him, Kagome. More than you know."

"Special?" Kagome snorted and bounced Rin on her right hip. Rin pulled her neck into a hug and placed her little head on her mother's chest, still silent and observing the stranger with her wide brown eyes. Kagome shook her head. The demon's words were positively preposterous. Sesshomaru definitely regarded her company like that of a pained menstrual cycle. He was annoyed with her and even voiced his opinions of her on several occasions. She knew he only put up with her because she just so happened to be the guardian of his best friend's child. He was hanging around her to be with Rin and to have a bond with her little girl. All of this was all because of Rin and nothing more. Or at least she thought.

Kagome felt hot all of a sudden despite the cool air blowing from the vents into the room. Her skinny blue jeans and white shirt felt too tight all of a sudden. Naraku was suggesting something. Something she didn't want to touch right now. Something she couldn't afford to think about and entertain. But she would be a liar if she said she hadn't thought about it at all. Sesshomaru was devilishly handsome and they had so many things in common that she lost count. He went out of his way to do little things for her. She presumed they did spend a lot of time together but she swore it was nothing amorous. Well on her part. She wasn't that type of a woman. But did he want something? Did she? The demon was getting married for God's sake!

She knew they were friends now at least but nothing else. Friends spent time together. Any more time she chalked it up to be solely based on Rin's needs. She was sure that had Rin not been involved, their paths wouldn't have entwined as deep as it did now. Yep she was sure of it. All the nice things he did for her was for Rin's sake. Not for her own. Kagome was getting annoyed at herself now. The words of the others had come to the surface and echoed in her ear. She looked upon Naraku when a thought struck her. "How do you know Sesshomaru so well and what he does with his time?"

Naraku shrugged his shoulders. "You could say we are very close friends." He answered not liking the taste of those words on his palette. But they were the closest ones he could find to describe the unorthodox relationship he shared with the eldest Tashio son. He knew he certainly couldn't say they were once mortal enemies and on many recent occasions went on blood thirsty pursuits to kill the other for personal satisfaction. Respect. Yes…he respected the Tashio's for their strength, tenacity, and their valiant attempts of walking the path of righteousness despite the grey areas they come across. He suppose he hit it off well with Sesshomaru because he was the only one that on occasion would stray and leave glorious devastating carnage in his wake. "I've been chosen to be his best man at the charade that is his upcoming nuptials." He expressed openly walking over to Inutashio's desk and leaning casually up against it. His eyes read the name on the package that was there written in Inutashio's calligraphy.

Dr. Anna Florence Barkley.

"Oh…that's a little callous of you to say, don't you think?" Kagome spoke lightly as she rubbed her daughter's hair back with gentle fingers.

Naraku tore his eyes from the package and regarded her for a moment before speaking. "Come on now. Even a human such as yourself can see the poor act being played on center stage." He stated pointedly catching every detail she revealed to him. "Even you must be aggravated by it all. Especially with you being such a dear friend to Sesshomaru and spending so much time with him these days."

Kagome shook her head choosing to not speak on the topic out of fear that she would say something that would put her in a hole she couldn't get out of. Her cheeks were still hot as she held onto her morals. Granted she wanted better for Sesshomaru and she already gave her two cents regarding Kaguya to the demon Prince. It was not necessary to speak on his issues so carelessly. Especially regarding his engagement which was supposed to be a time when you needed friends and family to support you. He was her friend. She would not bash him. Kagome pulled Rin further up on her hip and continued to soothe the little pup. "It doesn't matter how I feel. He needs support in all his endeavors including his engagement. As friends, this is what we are supposed to do regardless of what we want. Right now, he needs us to back him up so that's what we should do."

Naraku was slightly taken aback by her response for many reasons. He hadn't expected that at all. He took in this petite woman that stood before him resolute in her thoughts. He had come to meet this Kagome and Rin as well as to include them in the board of chess being played dramatically in their wake. The sincerity and openness in her eyes were there for him to take or leave. His plans took a slight unexpected detour and he realized even more so the legacy that Midoriko had passed down went far beyond her power. "You make a solid point." He responded to the challenge placed before him. "I pegged you wrong indeed." He dug into his pocket and took out a black card with silver foil stamping on it. "You are an exquisite woman and any friend of Sesshomaru's is a friend of mine." He held it out for her with his charming smile beckoning her to take it. "Here's my card. If you need anything, you be sure to reach out."

Kagome reached for it cautiously and looked at the beautiful card before holding it in her hand securely against Rin's back. She felt the fancy velvet that the card was made out of. She did feel that he was venting to her a little bit his thoughts on his best friend's relationship and she was happy to see that maybe she had at least got Naraku to be more open minded and supportive of Sesshomaru's engagement. She knew there was more to this relationship and Sesshomaru had said as much the last time they were together. But right now he needed a team to stand at his side especially as he dealt with the estranged demoness. This thought reminded her she needed to talk to her sister later. She prayed to heaven Kikyo wasn't intimately involved and wasn't the reason Kaguya was so hostile all the time.

The door opened and in rushed Inutashio looking frantically about as if he had forgotten something. Piercing golden eyes glanced at Naraku who stood casually to the side looking quite pleased with himself and sprang over to Kagome who looked quite pink in the face. The young mother held her pup Rin in her arms and was slowly leading her little girl into sleep. "I'm deeply sorry for my departure and manners, Kagome." He spoke lowly mindful of Rin's lethargic state. "An emergency needed my attention and I had to step out. I hope Monsiuer Naraku was a gentleman?" He asked throwing a questionable gaze to Naraku already doubting him.

"He certainly has." Kagome confirmed with a smile feeling comfortable now in Naraku's presence chalking her earlier reaction to miko jitters. His demonic aura no longer bothered her but she still couldn't help the wary feeling in the back of her head. He was very charismatic and easy to talk to. She hadn't even realized they spoke the whole time while Inutashio was out of the office. She could see why he was in public relations. Rin's body became heavier and Kagome shifted herself fully into arms. She felt Rin's bum testing her pamper and kissed the little girl's temple affectionately. Rin's hand became lose and the highlighter she had held suddenly fell to the floor. Kagome took the drawing that was dangling by the tips of Rin's fingers and held it out for Inutashio to take. "Now you have to excuse me. I need to take Rin to the ladies room."

Inutashio took the picture with a smile and went over to his desk. "Use my private restroom right outside this door." He said motioning with his head toward the direction she should take. "I'm going to lock up and then we can leave shortly." He found the tape dispenser on his desk and tore a piece off while looking at the picture drawn for him.

Kagome nodded and went to her purse and picked it up. She dropped his card inside adjusted the straps on her wrist so she could hold Rin as well. She turned to Naraku and smiled up at him. "It's nice to meet you, Naraku. Sesshomaru's lucky to at least have a friend that cares."

Inutashio watched the exchange out of the corner of his eyes warily as he taped the picture to the wall near his stack of framed photos of family, friends, and colleagues. Naraku nodded and bowed lightly to her. "A pleasure meeting you, Kagome. I do hope you we cross paths again." He responded and watched as she followed the loosely translated directions Inutashio gave that led her out of the executive office. Both men remained silent long until after the door closed behind her with a soft click.

Inutashio gave Naraku a hard glare before sighing unsure if he wanted to know what the young spider demon was up to. "Naraku I'm warning you…do not do anything…reprehensible." He spoke with a slight edge to his voice.

Naraku turned his eyes onto the older Lord showing no interest in making any promises. Many quaked like cowards before Lord Inutashio but Naraku certainly wasn't the type and had never been. He dared once to test the old man's strength and wasn't disappointed at all by the strength within him. Inutashio once beat him an inch from death but did not take his life claiming that he saw greatness within Naraku. No one had ever said or done anything like that to Naraku before. He had grown up alone and hollow without family yet Inutashio made it his personal mission to be that pillar in his life. Since then, Inutashio and he worked out an understanding between them. Naraku smirked holding his right hand out to the Lord expectantly. "You called for me, remember?" He responded cheekily. "I can't help it that I easily make friends on the playground."

"I'm serious Naraku. Those two are to remain out of whatever little scheme you've cooked up." He thoroughly expressed making sure no uncertainties lied between them. Naraku's silence spoke more than his words and Inutashio knew that two eyes needed to be on Naraku as often as possible. This would be a difficult task as Naraku was notoriously known for disappearing and yet still somehow managing to get his way. Pushing his thoughts to the side he picked up the package with the doctor's name on it and gave it to Naraku. "Be sure that this gets to Anna unopened." He commanded with authority in his voice. "I trust she is here in France and settled already."

Naraku looked to the window with a grin leaving his remark going unanswered. Sometimes as much as he respected Inutashio, he also was annoyed by how much the older demon knew. He picked up the packet and waved it in the air before placing it under his arm. "She will get it." He responded walking over to the door before stopping. He turned to look around the office at the highlighters and stickers with a smirk. "I do love what you're doing to the place." He responded before opening the door and walking out with another whistle of a tune sprouting between his lips. The staff outside moved about the floor on their way leaving him to go unbothered. He reached the elevator and held the package in his hands. As the doors closed, he took a pointed claw and opened the envelope with every intention of reading everything inside regarding his newly acquired friends.

Kagome cleaned up her apartment in record time that evening. She wiped her forehead onto her arm before looking about proudly at all she had accomplished. Everything was neat and tidy which made her quite shocked to see. The living room smelled of lemon and the floors were free of toys, clothes, and baskets of clothes. Many would think she had an OCD by the looks of her immaculately spotless kitchen at her restaurant. Everything from the ceiling to the floor was scrubbed and put into its proper place every night after closing. But those same compulsory sentiments hadn't reached her private home.

She kept her apartment clean for the most part but she cared less for the little things that lay abandoned on the floor. As she looked around the room, she felt oddly empowered. The apartment felt bigger now that she combed over every nook and cranny to organize her things. Everything was put away and out of sight. Kikyo's painting that she brought over was hung up on the wall looking quite luxurious on her plain white wall. The soft lamp light illuminated the empty floors and the systematized shelves. She had prepared various ingredients for a light brunch for tomorrow's appointment. She wanted to be a good hostess as well as to make a good impression on the doctor.

A calm quiet had fell onto her shoulders and she relished in serenity's embrace. She moved to the kitchen and made her a cup of calming chamomile tea for the night. Rin was sleeping quietly in her bed having ate her fill of chicken and rice. Rin took a surprisingly calming bath in the sink. Rin hadn't taken a real nap all day so she knew her little pup was exhausted. She smiled feeling her pup's gentle aura still connected to her own. She poured hot water in her cup over the teabag and walked back into the living room with her tea. Kagome moved to sit down on the couch when her doorbell rang. Curiously, she placed the cup on her table and stood up. Kagome flexed her aura and walked over to the door recognizing the person on the other side. "Kikyo!"

"I know it's late but I wanted to make sure you were ready for tomorrow." Kikyo said pushing her way into the apartment with two bags of things in her hand. She stilled looking slowly around the living room and down the hallway.

Kagome slowly closed the door. "Nice to see you too, Kikyo." She commented dryly as Kikyo turned around and hugged her in greeting.

"Your place looks so much bigger, Kagome!" Kikyo said setting the bags down onto the floor. She immediately began digging through the bags and pulling out a binder and paper. "I wasn't sure if you had one but I thought you might need something to keep everything in." Kagome waked over as Kikyo pulled out a blue envelope and a thank you card. "You need to write something and sign it. Where's Rin?"

"She's sleeping in the back." Kagome took the card and placed it back into the bag for later. She smiled as she listened vaguely to Kikyo speak. This was Kikyo's way of caring. Kikyo pulled out little things and made verbal notes with her finger pointed in the air. Most would see her as an overbearing and controlling but this was just who she was. Kagome put the bags to the side for tomorrow and sat down on her couch. Kikyo pulled out a bottle with a weird green thick mix inside and took healthy sips. "There's chicken and rice in the fridge." Kagome offered moving to warm up the food.

Kikyo stopped her and shook her head. She swallowed the detox she had made and closed the cap. "I'm fine." She said before sitting down on the couch next to her sister. Both curled their feet underneath them as they got comfortable under the light of the lamp.

Kagome picked up her tea cup and blew the steam that still rose over the surface. The last time they spoke, the conversation was rushed and she was apparently...busy with Inuyasha. "So how have you been?"

Kikyo shifted in her seat and shrugged her shoulders. "I could be better but I'm not complaining."

Kagome nodded as all actual things she wanted to say ran through her head. A blush came to her cheeks as she thought about Inuyasha spending quality time with Kikyo. "I see. How's Inuyasha? Last time I heard from him, he was at your place."

Kikyo's expression turned into one of annoyance. "Driving me crazy! The next time I see him, I'm going to strangle him. He got paint on me and he even had the audacity to take my red French Charvon oil paint and just run off with it like a lunatic!"

"Those are the ones that put you on a back order right?" Kagome asked remembering well the brand that Kikyo loved.

Kikyo hit her thigh. "At least someone else knows and understands the consequences of his actions." She bent forward closer to Kagome. "So when you see him, hit him for me and put some force behind it." Kikyo looked to the side. "I should go dig out Grandpa's subjugation beads from my closet and use it on him."

Kagome took a sip of her tea listening to Kikyo mutter to herself clearly planning revenge. The conversation she wanted to have was uncomfortable but the desire to have it was growing in her belly. Curiosity was riding her ass at the moment as she continued to share space with her sister. Sessshomaru's suggestion had sunk deep into her mind along with Naraku's expression of distaste for Kaguya. She didn't want to get into his business but she was slightly worried for Kikyo if she was involved in it. Taking a deep inhale, she just decided to get it over with. "Kikyo, can I ask you a question without you getting angry at me?"

Kikyo stilled and looked to Kagome with her eyebrows drawn up. Kagome had caught her off guard. "You can ask but I make no promises."

Kagome held her warm cup on her hand and rubbed the sides gathering courage. "I don't know how else to ask this so I'll just come out and ask." She said placing her cup down onto the table. "Are you having an affair? An affair with Sesshomaru?"

"What!" Kikyo nearly screamed as Kagome shushed her into silence. Both sisters looked down the darkened hallway to the back room listening for any signs of an awakening Rin. Kikyo ducked her head and covered her mouth before hissing harshly to her sister. "What the fuck Kagome! No!"

"What! I'm just asking!" Kagome defended holding her hands up defensively. "Look I spoke to Sesshomaru and he told me that you know something about his relationship and to ask you what the hell is going on. At first I wanted nothing to do about it but then I started thinking if you were in trouble…"

Kikyo face palmed herself and dragged her manicured fingers down her face. "No…no!" She reassured Kagome. "I'm not sleeping with Sesshomaru and I'm not in trouble at all. But Sesshomaru is very much so."

"Thank goodness." Kagome sat back relieved and reached for her cup of tea again. Her worries were laid to rest at her sister's confirmation. "Well then how are you involved? What's going on?" Kagome asked sitting back in the sofa and crossing her legs again.

Kikyo shook her head. "It's best you don't know."

"Too late." Kagome responded sipping from her hot tea. "I know he doesn't love her or want to be in a relationship. He got in this relationship because of duty and obligation but he's trapped somehow. So spill!" Kikyo have her a pointed look that Kagome disregarded. "Don't worry. I have no intentions of getting involved. You know that's not me."

"Bullshit! If you care for the person…you get involved and make it your business." Kikyo countered as Kagome sat expectantly looking to her.

"Either you tell me or I get it elsewhere." Kagome threatened reminding her of the many times when they were kids and teenagers.

"Fine! But keep this to yourself and please don't get involved. My life is hell already." Kikyo muttered looking at her bottle of juice before opening it up and taking a swig from it. She swallowed again and closed the cap to dive into the debacle that was Sesshomaru's love life and her role in it. As she spoke she noticed Kagome's posture became stiff. She told her about the contract she discovered and Kaguya's secret blackmail attempts to get artificially inseminated. She told about Lady Inukimi's role in it and how she dragged Kikyo into the ring along with her. She also just went ahead and told her of the petition she just sent to the Japanese Youkai Court to get his engagement nullified and how Sesshomaru's credibility and estate was in danger due to Kimi's oversight. She took the evidence illegally which was considered tampering and could be thrown out of court thus giving the Utomi's grounds to take everything from Sesshomaru.

Kagome's facial expressions ranged from mild shock to deep disgust and then to a sparkle of determination. When Kikyo was done, she took a deep breath and fell back against the sofa having expelled everything including her own thoughts and feelings deep in her soul. It got deathly silent and Kikyo turned her head to look up at her sister. "Well?"

Kagome sat in silence for a minute. "Ok…that was a lot to take in." Kagome responded feeling slightly dazed from all the information that she was fed. Kagome shifted through the details in her mind and worked out the story the way Kikyo told it. She couldn't fathom that all of this was caused because Sesshomaru wanted to be with Kaguya and later regretted his choice. It didn't sound like him much at all. "Why would he get with her in the first place?"

"Exactly!" Kikyo spoke. "I can't figure it out. It just doesn't make sense."

Kagome sat and thought long and hard working through the details with her sister and combing over reasons why Sesshomaru would have picked Kaguya that didn't involve love or money. Kagome looked to her neatly organized bookcase and scanned the many titles and author's listed on the shelf. Her eyes fell on one book that she had gotten from Inutashio regarding demons that were a part of the canine family. She had read it frontwards and backwards finding it to be a wealth of knowledge and an interesting read that she could apply to the pack behaviors she was witnessing from the Inu males and females around her. She would bet money this was all due to something basic. People and demons did many things to satiate their hierarchy of needs. A light bulb went off in her head and she snapped her fingers. "He's Apexing."

Kikyo sat up. "What?" she whispered.

Kagome nodded and pointed to her books. She moved to go over to the bookcase and pulled the book out. She flipped through the pages where she remembered reading about the Apexing of demons. "Inutashio has given me lots of reading to do about Inus since Rin is spending so much time with them that she may pick up some of their habits. To me it sounds like this was all driven by instinct first and duty second."

"Sesshomaru isn't exactly a dumbass, I find it highly unlikely that he would allow instinct to drive him like this." Kikyo said sitting up and giving her little sister her full attention.

Kagome ran her fingers through her hair shaking the curly mass that fell down her back. "It's just a hunch but even he isn't that impervious to his basic instincts. What if he Apexed? Instinct would demand he search for mate or at least a suitable woman to…you know." Kagome said waving her hand in the air as if that would pull Kikyo into her thoughts so she wouldn't have to say sex out loud. "Duty would dictate the status of that mate which is maybe why he picked Kaguya. I mean you said it yourself; Kaguya is rich, from a respectable family, and from a long line of full blooded demons that believe in a pure race. Maybe that aligned with his wishes."

Kikyo stood up and looked at the book as Kagome pointed out the chapter. It all sounded like a pile of horseshit but there was something about it that had a ring of truth to it. But she seriously doubt that was the reason behind it. Kikyo planted her hands on her hips and shook her head. "Great Kami above…what if you're right? He's a dumbass." Kikyo shook her head as it became logically more sound by the minute but it still had flaws. She just couldn't see Sesshomaru like that. No way he was going through that at the moment. "I doubt this theory though. But I'll give you points for effort." She looked to Kagome who handed her the book to take. "Look at you…I see you didn't skip out on all the miko training sessions." She mused.

Kagome smiled brightly. "Well I was forced to do a lot of reading over the last few years. You'd be surprised what I know. I'm more than just kitchen cook, you know!" She said confidently crossing her arms over her chest. She pointed to the book with her finger. "You can borrow this but make sure you give it back to me tomorrow. It belongs to Inutashio."

Kikyo laughed and flipped through the book with interest. "I doubt this will help us. But we could test your little theory. Kagome your hips are wider than mine. Go to his restaurant and flaunt your goods."

Kagome gasped and hit her sister on the shoulder. "Stop trying to pimp me out all the time! Besides he might be a boob guy."

"Damn. There goes the grandmaster plans." Kikyo rolled her eyes and sat back down on the sofa.

Kagome walked over and sat next to her this time and leaned her head on her shoulder. "Poor guy." She muttered feeling deeply sorry for the male. She believed in love in a relationship. To some degree she believed in love at first sight when it came to demons. She had met plenty of demon couples that told her of their meeting and half spoke of their instincts driving them into blissful relationships. But she never guessed how troublesome that could be when coupled with duty or personal expectations.

Sesshomaru was in this horrible predicament and it could literally cost him everything. She now really disliked Kaguya finding her behavior to horrific. A sense of justice swelled in Kagome's spirit. Sesshomaru needed help and he needed it fast. She didn't know what she could do but she knew some people in pretty high places. Her food beckoned people all around the world and they kept a record of their patrons whom they served and catered to. She thought back to the business card that sat in her purse that he had garnered earlier from the courteous spider demon.

She just promised she wouldn't get involved and she was going to stick to her promise. But that didn't mean she couldn't help her sister or his friends make things right. She looked at her sister and patted her on the thigh encouragingly. "You're going to keep helping him right?"

Kikyo looked to her little sister and sighed. "My hatred for Kaguya surpasses my hatred of Sesshomaru so…I guess." She gave in as Kagome hugged her.

"You don't hate anyone. Stop saying that!" Kagome chastised before kissing her sister on the cheek.

"You sound like momma." Kikyo responded wanting to push her sister off the couch and debated it for a moment. "And why do you care so much about Sesshomaru? Inuyasha is -" The sound of Kikyo's phone going off called to her and she quickly reached to get recognizing the ringtone. She hesitated on rather or not she should answer it. The pleasant mood was evaporating rapidly and turning into that of nervous wreck. She could see Kagome lean over to see who it was and she showed her desiring to see what her sister would do. Had she changed? Was all this just a front?

Kagome's heart beat rapidly in her chest and she ushered Kikyo to answer it quickly. Kikyo nodded and pressed the button listening to the call connect.

"Souta! What's up!" Kikyo greeted looking over to Kagome who perked up on the couch and moved closer so she could hear.

"….."

"Yes I'm sitting down." Kikyo asked nervously looking to Kagome as her younger sister leaned forward.

"…."

Kikyo laughed and shook her head. "No, for your information I am nursing a lovely bottle of mean green detox juice!"

"…"

"What is it? What's the good news?" Kikyo asked feeling nervous and yet excited that for once they well all connected in this weird way.

"…"

"You're playing Forward this season! That's super cool, Souta!" She said happily looking to Kagome who sat back with a sad smile on her face.

Kagome knew how much this meant to Souta. It's what he wanted his whole life. He was now being taken seriously and possibly drafted for some big team for the FIFA Cup. He dreamed of playing on the field with Lionel Messi and shaking hands with the great Pelé of Brazil.

Kikyo looked away as everything came back in leaps and bounds. "Congratulations, Souta! I'm so proud of you! Hey you brought my ticket, right!"

"….."

"Great! My flight is booked a few days after my art show. I'm coming to see you play!" Kikyo said with pride although finding it awkward that Kagome couldn't share in on the news. But maybe she would. A lot has happened. They didn't exactly work out their issues but they were more than cordial now. Maybe there was hope…"Hey Souta…I have someone here that wants to speak to you."

Kikyo held the phone out and put the call on speaker. Kagome sat closer nervously unsure if she should say anything. She hadn't spoken to Souta in years. She only got caught up thanks to Kikyo's sharing of his tidbits of news and that was recently because before none of them were on good speaking terms. "H-Hi Souta! Congratulations!"

"Kagome…." His deep voice came through the speaker.

She could feel herself getting teary eyed at the sound of her name coming from his voice over the phone. Her heart was pounding in her chest and stopped herself from becoming a pool of salty tears. It had gotten deeper and more masculine than his raspy teenage voice that he had when he was going through puberty. When had his voice changed so much? He sounded so much like a man now. "I'm here!" She said reaching for the phone and taking it out of Kikyo's hands. She held onto it like it was a lifeline that connected her to her little brother. "Oh Souta…I-I-" So many words wanted to come out at once while she was searching for the ones that needed to be said first.

"Are you coming too? Are you coming back home with Rin to my game?" He asked with a hopeful tone there in his voice. His questions rushed out at her and she could barely form answers for him. She just wanted him to keep talking so she could hear him. She thought back to his question and her chest had fallen at the truth she knew she would say.

Kagome's heart dipped then. "Souta…I can't-I have-"

Click

"Souta?" She asked hearing the dial tone suddenly. "Souta?"

Kikyo reached for her phone back slowly right as the call dropped. Kagome held onto it and slowly let go while she frantically wiped her eyes. "Call him back." Kagome whispered with her head bowed. Her bangs covered her eyes to stop Kikyo from seeing her saddened face.

"Kagome…"

"Please." She croaked lowly unaware that her voice was breaking.

Kikyo sighed and did as she was asked. She called him back and immediately her call was forwarded to his voice mailbox. Kikyo hung up and laid her hand to rest in her lap holding the phone. It was silent between them as the gravity of their own family dynamic came peeking through the thin veil that they managed to patch together. The call was a harsh reminder of the truth among them. That their own issues had yet to be solved and their family was barely hanging on by a threat of hope. Kikyo didn't look at Kagome but she stood up slowly and gathered her purse. "I think I should go. I'll be here early in the morning." Kikyo whispered finding the tension in the room to be awkward and the silence unbearable.

"Do you both hate me that much?"

Kikyo stopped and turned around to see Kagome sitting with a stoic expression that Sesshomaru would be most proud of. Her chef's attitude was in place and she was now barricaded by a wall that no one could penetrate. Kikyo sighed knowing the truth to her answers. Nothing had changed. Their drama still lingered waiting for the opportunity to explode between them all. "I can't speak for Souta. You're going to have to talk to him about his feelings toward you. As for me…I don't hate you." Kikyo responded grabbing her purse and bottle securely in her hands. She walked over to the door for once wanting to not deal with conversation. She had a long day from hell and she was sure it was far from over despite the night that had fallen upon Paris. "At one time I did. I wanted you to feel my anger…my pain…my hatred. I don't now…especially knowing that you're doing the same thing I did." She opened the door and walked out.

"What is that?" Kagome asked standing and walking to the door and stopping at the entrance to hold it open. She was ready to take whatever insults Kikyo had to throw at her. Her sister's tongue could be lethal and their mother always reprimanded her when they were younger because of the vile things Kikyo would say to those that crossed her. The evening was ruined and her home now felt tinier than a shoe. The world around her seemed far more out of control than she knew before.

Kikyo shouldered her bag and turned to look at her sister. "I turned to the bottle. You turned to Paris." With that she walked out of the door feeling the sadness inside of her. The anger that normally swelled inside of her had been temporarily replaced by despair. Not for the deaths of their family members or for the burned bridges of their relationships among themselves. She was sad because it was still apparent that Kagome was still running and thus still combating her own form of addiction.

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