Inuyasha: Ha! I win! *waves Tessaiga triumphantly*
Kouga: dammit!
Sango: well, there goes my money.
Inuyasha: serves you right for betting against me!
A1969: er…hey, guys! It's been a little while since I updated. I was a bit preoccupied with both the earthquake and a new chapter for another one of my stories.
Kagome: I thought you planned on going into hibernation again.
A1969: of course not! I plan to finish this story before next year, which is why my other stories will have to wait *sigh* Or I could just double time.
Sesshoumaru: *to Miroku* I believe you owe me, monk.
Miroku: wait, did you bet that Inuyasha would win the fight with Kouga?
Inuyasha: oh my god! Sesshoumaru! You have faith in me!
Sesshoumaru: don't be ridiculous. There is no way that mangy wolf could overpower one in whose veins runs the blood of our Father.
Kouga: say that again!
A1969: anyway…I'd like to thank everyone who read, reviewed, and put this story on their alerts and favorites! In order to make up for my tardiness, I've made this chapter quite long for you guys. Enjoy!
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-Chapter Forty-Three-
.:An Interlude's End:.
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Clara
The alarm clock rang loud and shrill as my hand fumbled around my bedside table. There was a loud click! and the alarm was suddenly silent. I opened my eyes, and stared at the ceiling, thinking…
Had last night really happened? Had I really told Sesshoumaru how I felt? I hadn't imagined it, had I? Remembering how warm I had been in his arms, I couldn't help but smile, my cheeks reddening slightly—I hadn't imagined the whole thing. It was as real as the sunlight streaming into my bedroom.
I sat up, and raked a hand through my hair. I blushed as I remembered how he'd held me tightly as he kissed me. For a moment, Elliott's stunned reaction flashed through my mind, and I quickly shoved him aside—I wanted to think of nothing else this morning, not even the impending algebra quiz I was going to take today.
Oh, damn.
Before I could go into a panic, the door to the balcony slid open, and Sesshoumaru strode in, golden eyes fixed on me. Last night, I had been in a dilemma about whether or not I would share the bed with him (not in that way)—I mean, wasn't that what most couples did? I had been genuinely confused—and had even considered asking Elliott's help—when Sesshoumaru reminded me that demons did not need sleep as often as humans. He had then slid the door of the balcony open and stepped out.
I had asked him where he was going, and he had said: "Back. It isn't proper for a man to remain in a sleeping maiden's bedchamber."
I hadn't really known what to say to that.
"Hey," I said as I got out of bed. I suddenly became aware that my hair was a mess. I blushed and discreetly tried to comb it out with my fingers.
Wordlessly, he came over to me. My blush deepened as he gently placed a hand on my cheek. I placed my hand over his, and smiled at him. His eyes met mine, and it felt as though my stomach vanished.
Sesshoumaru leaned down, and brushed his lips lightly against mine. My heart thudded violently when he deepened his kiss, his tongue brushing lightly against my lower lip. I wrapped my arms around his neck, as he drew me flush against him. The butterflies in my stomach were fluttering up a storm.
Gently, he coaxed my lips apart, and I gasped as I felt his tongue against mine. After what seemed like an eternity, I pulled away from him, my heart beating fast. I leaned my forehead against his chin, and closed my eyes as he held me in his arms.
"Good morning, by the way," I said, as I looked up at him.
His eyes...they were the same cold eyes that I knew all too well, but, beneath the ice, I could see something different...was that warmth I saw in those eyes? The thought made me smile.
Holding my gaze, he gently stroked my cheek with his thumb. "What're you thinking?" I asked. I wrapped my arms around him. How long had I always thought of doing this?
"My Father's last words," he said quietly.
I raised my eyebrows, puzzled. "Can I ask what they were?"
"Have I someone to protect?" he asked. Whether he was asking me, or himself, it was hard to say.
"Of course you do," I said. "Rin, Jaken, Ah-Un, and..."
"You." I blushed at the intensity in his eyes. It was a bit cliché, but my heart gave a pleasant squeeze as he stared at me.
My eyes suddenly fell on the clock above my desk, and I inwardly groaned. Why was there a stupid rule that made time fly when you were enjoying yourself? Reluctantly, I pulled away from Sesshoumaru, and gave him an apologetic smile.
"I'm sorry," I said. "But I have to go. I have class this morning, but I'll be back later." I inwardly cursed school.
He nodded curtly. "Very well," he said tersely. "I shall return to Jaken and the others for now."
Sesshoumaru pulled away from me, turned on his heel, and headed towards the sliding doors. As I watched him slide the doors open, I felt somewhat disappointed—I wasn't much of an expert, but didn't goodbyes usually warrant a kiss?
Blushing, I shook my head and turned towards the bathroom when I suddenly felt a clawed hand close tightly around my wrist. Before I could even blink, I felt myself being tugged backward, and spun around. The next thing I knew, Sesshoumaru's lips were against mine.
My eyes widened in surprise. His hand slipped behind my head, holding me in place as he kissed me. My fists clenched his white haori as I closed my eyes, my cheeks flushed.
All too soon, he pulled away from me. He held my face in both of his clawed hands, his eyes intent as he stared at me. I became vividly aware of the clock ticking in the background, but, at the moment, I could have cared less.
He suddenly leaned in, but not to kiss me. "Tell the mortal if he thinks of interfering again," he said quietly, his breath warm against my ear. "I shall deal with him."
His gaze shifted to the door behind me, and I inwardly growled. Elliott.
"I can deal with him myself," I said, shrugging as he let go of me. "Besides, I owe him for all the torture he put me through yesterday."
Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow at me, amused. "Then I leave him to you," he said, turning towards the balcony again. He paused, then looked over his shoulder at me. "Clara."
"Yes?"
He was silent for a moment. "Don't do anything foolish."
I blinked, and I smiled at him. "I'll try not to," I said.
Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes, not pleased with the answer. "Okay, I won't," I amended.
Satisfied, he nodded, and slid the doors to my balcony open. I watched as he leapt off, vanishing from my sight. Right.
I turned towards the door, and flung it open to find Elliott crouched outside. "Elliott," I growled.
He looked sheepish for a second, before quickly recovering and straightening up. He was already dressed in a white dress shirt, and black trousers. He grinned at me.
"Morning, Antoinette," he said cheerfully.
I folded my arms. "Were you eavesdropping, by any chance?" Obviously.
He pointed towards himself. "Me?" he said, feigning astonishment. "I wouldn't dream of it! It's very uncivilized, you see."
I glared. "Sesshoumaru said he could sense—" I quickly stopped, blushing, as I realized my mistake.
Elliott's eyebrows rose so high, they were in danger of disappearing into his blonde hair. "Your boyfriend spent the night, didn't he?" he said conspiratorially. He gave me a wicked grin.
I felt partially relieved, and partially mortified. "He didn't," I said hastily, cheeks reddening. True, Sesshoumaru had gone back to the Feudal Era last night. But Elliott was Eliott, and the only person he would believe was himself. I could already see the conclusion in his head, as though it were a billboard.
"I won't tell Auntie Rose," he reassured me, smirking.
"You're...you're getting the wrong idea!" I stammered, blushing violently. "Besides, he hasn't been my boyfriend for two days, Elliott!"
He plowed on, completely ignoring me. "So?" he said, raising an eyebrow. "Have you seen him, Antoinette? I wouldn't have been able to last long, if I were you. Tell me...is he good? I bet he's excellent!"
"ELLIOTT!"
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Kagome
"Dammit, Kagome!"
I rolled my eyes good-naturedly as I slipped the sock over my foot. Inuyasha was sitting on my bed, arms and legs folded. He wore a scowl on his face. I think he meant to look annoyed, but, instead, he ended up with a pout (he actually looked quite cute).
"I told you, only two more days, and we can go back," I said, pulling on the other sock.
Inuyasha scoffed. "How is everyone back there?" I asked, standing from the chair.
Inuyasha suddenly fell silent, and I quickly looked at him, worried. "The same, actually," he said. "Jaken's still being a nuisance, Rin's still a pet with the village women, and Kohaku's helping out, and training with Sango. We still have no idea what to do with the shard on his back."
I hitched my backpack on, and sighed. "Inuyasha, the truth is, I think we might being going back early," I said. "Maybe even tomorrow."
He stared at me, surprised. "Not that I'm complaining, or anything," he said. "But…why the change of heart?"
"Clara," I said simply. "We had to purify the jewel here again. When we did, I thought she would faint from the effort. I think using her spiritual energy is taking a toll on her."
Inuyasha frowned. "I don't think it's a good sign," he said darkly.
"I think we need to complete the jewel soon," I said. "Inuyasha…we really do need Kouga's shards."
He huffed. "He'll give them," he reassured me. Strange that he was the one reassuring me about Kouga. "Kouga may be a pain, but he can be reasonable."
"But, what about Kohaku?" I asked. "We can't just pull out his shard—it could kill him. But it would kill Clara if we don't."
"That's the problem," Inuyasha said. His expression was suddenly so serious, it was almost similar to his elder brother's. "You and I both know Sesshoumaru wouldn't hesitate to pull out Kohaku's shard. And you and I both know Sango and Miroku won't let that happen."
"Clara wouldn't let him," I pointed out.
Inuyasha sighed. "Well, this dilemma just gets worse, doesn't it?"
I was about to reply, when my eyes fell on the clock on my bedside table. "Oh no, I'm going to be late!"
"Geez." Inuyasha hopped off the bed and crouched down in front of me.
"What are you doing?" I asked, surprised.
"Just shut your yap, I'll get you there!" Inuyasha said. I quickly clambered onto his back.
I smiled as I wrapped my arms around his neck. "Well, you are faster than a car," I said, smiling in thanks. On an impulse, I kissed him on the cheek.
His eyes widened in surprise. "Keh!" he said, reddening.
He quickly jumped out the open window and rushed towards the shrine steps. He abruptly stopped. He frowned as he looked up towards the sky, just as a familiar orb of light landed gracefully on the ground near the well shrine, stirring the air around us.
"Sesshoumaru," Inuyasha said as his brother materialized yards away from us.
Sesshoumaru threw Inuyasha a look of pure indifference before he made his way towards the well shrine. We watched as he slid the door open, and stepped in.
"Don't tell me they're fighting again," I growled.
"I dunno," Inuyasha said as he leapt towards the shrine steps. He practically flew through the air as he jumped from building to building. The wind rushed past us, whipping my hair back.
"Eh? What do you mean?" I asked.
His ears twitched. Wait, ears? Darn, I'd forgotten his hat!
"I mean, Clara's scent was all over him," Inuyasha said, evidently disturbed. I could picture him wrinkling his nose in disgust.
My eyes widened in shock as I stared at the back of his head. "Wait, what?" I said.
"Her scent was all over him," Inuyasha repeated as he leapt across two buildings. "And he wasn't even bothering to hide it."
What? "Really?!" I said, excited. "Oh my god, do you think they hugged?"
"Kagome...no, just no," Inuyasha said, as he landed on the roof of the school. I had a good ten minutes to spare.
"But wouldn't it be wonderful if they finally admitted that they care about each other?" I pointed out. "I mean, Sesshoumaru is such a lone dog, it's high time he found someone. And besides...Clara can be sweet, when she isn't being oblivious."
"Yeah, they're not good for each other," Inuyasha pointed out, and I raised an eyebrow at him. "Sesshoumaru's callous, cold, and uncaring, Kagome. He wouldn't know what a relationship is, even if it walked up to him and smacked him in the face."
"Well, look who's calling who callous," I said flatly. Before he could protest, I went on. "Listen, Inuyasha, who knows? Sesshoumaru might be good for her, and I think she's good for him. Let's just see where they go, shall we?"
I gave a start of surprise as the bell suddenly chimed. "Anyway, I gotta get going," I said hastily. "I'll see you later, okay?"
Inuyasha huffed, folding his arms. I quickly stood on tiptoe and kissed him on the cheek. His eyes widened in surprise, a faint tinge spreading across his face. I giggled.
"Be good!" I said, as I ran off.
. . .
I was breathless by the time I reached the classroom. Thankfully, the teacher hadn't arrived yet, and people were stilling milling around, talking to each other and laughing. I managed to reach my seat without drawing Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi's attention. They were in deep discussion, but it was hard to make it out what they were talking about because of the din.
Clara was already sitting at her desk. She was leaning her cheek against her palm, her eyes fixed on the window. She was smiling somewhat dreamily, a slight blush on her cheeks, and a faraway look in her eyes.
Wait a minute!
That expression! There was no mistaking it...it was the expression of the lovesick! Remembering Inuyasha's comment about Clara's scent on Sesshoumaru, I wanted to grin like an idiot.
Keeping my voice calm, I stood near her desk. She didn't even notice me. I cleared my throat, and she gave a start of surprise.
"Kagome!" she said, looking up.
I grinned at her, as I sat on the empty desk next to hers. "Someone looks pretty happy this morning," I began. "Gee, I wonder why."
She blushed, and I gave a small squeal. "It's Sesshoumaru, isn't it?" I said eagerly. "Tell me!"
Clara looked like a deer on caught in headlights. "Yes," she admitted, after a moment of embarrassed silence.
"Oh my god!" I exclaimed. "What happened? Tell me! Quick, tell me!"
"What's happening, Ms. Higurashi," an ominous voice suddenly said. Stiffening in my seat, I looked up to find Mr. Sato standing in front of us, eyes fixed menacingly on me. "Is that my class is about to start now. If you'd save your gossip for later, I'd appreciate it."
Cheeks red from embarrassment, I stood and made my way to my seat, feeling the eyes of the other students on me. As I sat back down, I threw Clara another look. She smiled apologetically at me.
"Later," I mouthed.
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Sesshoumaru
"Lord Sesshoumaru, you're back!"
Jaken's squawk greeted me as I leapt out of the well and landed on my feet. Upon catching sight of me, he immediately ran towards me. Amused, I watched as he tripped and fell on the ground at my feet. He did have his uses.
"My lord, your presence has been sorely missed!" Jaken exclaimed, turning his fall into a bow. He looked up, his eyes quite bulbous.
"Rin and Kohaku?" I asked.
He blinked, surprised at my inquiry. "They're both fine, milord!" the imp said, standing up. "Clara isn't with you, milord?"
"She will return when she desires," I said, as I strode past him and made my way towards the forest that led to the village.
"The nerve of that insolent girl!" Jaken screeched, scrambling to catch up. "How dare she make us wait? After all the trouble she's caused you, milord, she has the gall!"
I stopped abruptly, and Jaken's incessant rambling stopped as he walked into the back of my leg. I looked behind me, glancing down at him with cold eyes. He looked up, and swallowed the lump that had formed in his throat.
"Oh, dear," the imp said, anxious.
Thud!
"Be quiet," I said, as I walked on. Jaken trailed behind me, the lump on his head slowly growing in size.
The short walk through the forest to the village was wholly uneventful. Jaken recovered his voice and proceeded to rant about the indignity it would cause a daiyoukai such as myself to walk into a village of mere humans. With practiced ease, I tuned him out, and allowed my thoughts to drift to the girl on the other side of the well.
For an instant, I recalled the way she had blushed and smiled when she had told me of her feelings. I had felt exuberantly triumphant at hearing her admission. Already, I felt impatient—I wished to return to her.
I suddenly stopped, and turned towards the trees, my claws flexed as I narrowed my eyes. "Milord?" Jaken said, immediately alarmed.
Without saying a word, I rushed towards the trees, claws slashing through the air. Wood splintered, and the groan of crashing trees echoed through the forest. A figure leapt from amidst the falling canopies, and landed in front of me.
"Kagura!" Jaken screeched, immediately raising the Staff of Heads.
The wind witch stared at me, her eyes widened with interest as she raked me from head to foot. "My," she said, fan held at her side. "No armor, no swords—it leaves less to the imagination, doesn't it?" She smirked.
"I do not need weapons to deal with you," I said, unconcerned. Admittedly, her appearance puzzled me. So, it would appear that she and the other incarnates were not killed when Naraku had sealed himself within the Sacred Jewel. Hn.
Her eyes flashed, and she frowned. "I didn't come here to 'deal' with you," she said, scoffing. I noticed that she attempted to hold her feather discreetly in one hand. "I came here for something else."
"You witch!" Jaken snapped.
"Be quiet," I said, glaring down at Jaken. He hastily bowed, and took a step back.
I turned back to Kagura. "What is your purpose?" I said. "You are aware that Naraku is within the Sacred Jewel."
She opened her fan, then closed it again—a sign of agitation, I take it. "Even though he is within the Sacred Jewel," she went on, "he still holds our hearts. However, he can do nothing to them, so as long as he remains within the jewel. For the moment, Hakudoshi, Kanna, and I are free."
"Your 'freedom' does not concern me," I said.
"No," she said. She smirked, her expression wily. "But I am sure Midoriko's reincarnation does, doesn't she?"
I allowed no expression to show in either my face or my eyes. "A mere human is hardly worth my notice," I said coldly. I will not allow this woman to use Clara as leverage.
Kagura glared. "You must know that Naraku is playing on your supposed 'feelings' for the girl," she said, somewhat acerbic.
I narrowed my eyes. "What is Naraku's plan?" I said quietly, my tone deadly.
She must have sensed the shift in my demeanor, for she took a reflexive step backward. Her expression, however, was filled with defiance.
"I only have one thing to say to you," she said. "Don't complete the Sacred Jewel."
There was a strong gust of wind as Kagura tossed her feather into the air. I watched, frowning, as she flew away. Don't complete the Sacred Jewel...
Not an option.
. . .
"It's a demon!"
"Somebody, find the good monk and the exterminator!"
"But…he looks a bit like Inuyasha, doesn't he?"
Ignoring the throng of humans, I made my way towards the village, Jaken in tow. From a little way off, I could make out the scents of Inuyasha's other companions, as well as Rin's and Kohaku's.
"Look, everyone, it's Jaken!" a man called out to his fellows.
"Jaken, who is this demon?"
"You insolent fools!" Jaken snapped, glaring at the humans that surrounded us. "This is Lord Sesshoumaru, daiyoukai of the Western Lands, and you will do well to remember it!"
"All right everyone, calm down." The monk and the exterminator suddenly appeared. The people immediately parted to let them pass, their presence calming the general anxiety the humans felt.
"Lord Sesshoumaru is Inuyasha's elder brother," the monk announced, and the humans immediately fell silent. "He is also an ally."
Hn. Ally? Most amusing.
At the monk's words, the humans immediately began muttering among themselves.
"Well...if he is indeed Inuyasha's elder brother, he can't be that bad, right?"
"I suppose that is true."
These creatures—whether or not they were entertaining or annoying, I had yet to decide. One by one, the crowd of humans left, placated by the monk's explanation. The monk and the exterminator turned to me.
"So, we take it, Inuyasha and the others aren't back yet," the exterminator said cautiously.
"No." I strode past them, and towards the hut at the far end of the village. I could hear Jaken attempting to catch up.
"Well, at least we got an answer out of him," the monk whispered, as they followed me from a distance.
As we neared the hut, the bamboo mat covering the doorway suddenly flew open, and Rin came bursting out, a wide grin on her face. Kohaku and the old priestess followed close behind her.
"Lord Sesshoumaru!" Rin cried out, delighted. She stopped in front of me, and blinked, puzzled. She looked around, her expression curious.
"What is it, Rin?" I asked.
She looked up. "My lord, Clara isn't with you?" she asked. There was worry in her voice.
"She will return soon, Rin," I reassured her.
She grinned, her brown eyes twinkling. "I bet she misses you, my lord!" she said cheerfully, clapping her hands once.
"Stop spouting nonsense, Rin!" Jaken snapped.
I chose to ignore Jaken. "The sentiment is mine, Rin," I said. Her eyes widened in delight, and she clasped her hands together, beaming at me.
It was satisfyingly amusing to see Jaken's jaw drop to the ground.
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Clara
"I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!"
I cringed as several people turned to stare at me and Kagome. The moment Algebra had ended, Kagome had cornered me, demanding to know about Sesshoumaru. At first, I didn't want to tell her (I mean, did Sesshoumaru want anyone to find out, or not?), but she had insisted, and I had no choice but to cave in.
"You don't have to be so loud about it!" I said, covering my ears as Kagome's squeals of delight rang throughout the entire classroom.
"Loud about what?"
I inwardly groaned as Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi suddenly appeared, their expressions eager. "Is it your boyfriend?" Eri asked, eyes wide.
"The really hot one?" Yuka chimed in.
"You have to tell us!" Ayumi demanded.
"Who kissed who first, you or him?!" Kagome said, fists clenched in excitement.
I stared at their expressions, my eyes wide. "Does it really matter who?" I asked, raising my eyebrows in bemusement.
Four pairs of hands suddenly crashed onto my desk. I squealed as I leaned back in my seat. Their expressions—they were like wolves about to close in on their prey!
"Of course, it matters!" Eri exclaimed, looking at me as though I had completely lost it.
"Who makes the first move always matters!" Yuka said, folding her arms and huffing. "It's one of the foundations of every good relationship!"
I blinked, taken aback. Was there a secret manual for relationships that I didn't know about?
"Oh, no," Ayumi said, staring at me with wide, tragic eyes. "He's your first boyfriend, isn't he?"
"Well, yes," I admitted. Truth be told, I was glad he was my first.
"Who made the first move?!" all four demanded.
My cheeks felt hot as I suddenly remembered the way Sesshoumaru held me in his arms. "H-he did, actually," I said, bracing myself for their explosive reactions.
"YES!" they cheered, punching the air in triumph. Kagome beamed at me, delighted. I couldn't help but grin at her.
"Wait, who said 'I love you' first?" Eri interjected, interrupting everyone's cheering.
"Er, I did," I said. Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi stared at me with such expressions of horror, you'd have thought they caught me murdering someone.
"Did he say it back?" Ayumi demanded. Was it just me, or did she sound a bit panicky?
"Well, not really," I said. "But Sesshoumaru is—"
"Oh, no!" all three exclaimed, horrified.
I held up my hands. "But it's all right!" I said. "Sesshoumaru is an actions-speak-louder-than-words kind of guy."
"Well, that's true," Kagome said, nodding in agreement.
"It's not good enough!" Yuka snapped. "He has to say it back! A relationship isn't solid if the guy doesn't say it back! Geez, what the heck is wrong with him?"
Okaaay…
I made a show of checking my watch. "Well, look at the time!" I said, hastily standing up. "I gotta go, I've got English in a few minutes!"
. . .
Why was it when you dreaded something, time flew faster, but when you wanted something to happen, it came slower? The day seemed to go by in a slow blur. I spent a good portion of it dodging Eri, Yuka, and Ayumi, all three of whom wanted to know more about 'my scumbag boyfriend who wouldn't even say the words back to me'.
Admittedly, I wanted to get home—I wanted to see Sesshoumaru again, actually. Call it being dramatic, or whatever, but every time I thought of him there was a pleasant ache in my chest, and I couldn't help but smile.
When the last bell had finally rung, it took a tremendous amount of self-control not to run out of the building, cheering like a kid.
"Someone looks happy," Kagome said.
I turned to her as I removed my shoes from the cubby. "School's over, why wouldn't I be happy?" I asked, putting my shoes on.
Kagome shook her head, and smiled as she stepped into her own shoes. "Are you sure the reason isn't someone with silver hair?" she asked as we left the building.
I blushed. "Don't be silly!" I stammered.
She raised an eyebrow, and smirked. "C'mon, say it," she teased. "Say you're excited to see Sesshoumaru. Go on, you guys are together anyway—say it!"
Before I could say anything else, a distraction appeared in the form of a black Accord, which stopped just outside the school gates. "Isn't that yours?" Kagome asked.
Surprised that Alexis would pick me up herself, I made my way over to the driver's window, which rolled down to reveal Elliott grinning at me. He wore a beret over his wavy blonde hair, and his brown eyes glittered—a little too maliciously for my taste.
"Elliott!" I said, surprised.
"Bonjour, Antoinette!" he said, winking.
I huffed. "I told you, the fake French accent doesn't suit you," I said, shaking my head.
"You wound me!" he said dramatically, in Japanese, a hand on his chest. "Isn't she the most tactless girl you'll ever meet?" he asked, leaning out of the window towards Kagome.
"Er…"
I rolled my eyes. "By the way, Elliott, this is Higurashi Kagome, a close friend of mine," I said. "Kagome, Elliott Summers. He's a childhood friend."
"We're more than friends, actually," Elliott said, winking.
"Elliott!" I snapped as Kagome's eyebrows shot up in surprise.
Elliott laughed. "I'm only joking—she isn't my type," he said, chuckling.
I growled. "What are you doing here, anyway?" I asked.
He shrugged, his hands fixed on the steering wheel. "I was looking around Ginza again, and decided to come pick you up!" he said cheerfully. "C'mon, I'm making mushroom risotto! You can help me. You can come along too, if you want," he added, turning to Kagome.
"Er, I've actually got to do a little reading for English class," Kagome said apologetically.
"Great! Hop in then," Elliott said.
. . .
"I'm really sorry about Elliott," I said as Kagome dumped her backpack on my bed. Elliott was currently downstairs, in the kitchen. He'd given us stern instructions to come down and help him after we put our stuff away.
"It's no problem," she said, shrugging. "I haven't got a lot to read, actually. It's just that Inuyasha might be wondering where I am."
"And you said I was excited," I said, raising my eyebrows and grinning.
Sammie suddenly poked her head from underneath the bed. Catching sight of us, she rushed out, barking as she hit my legs, her tail wagging happily. "Hi!" I said. I picked her up, and she licked my cheek.
"Aren't you a cutie?" Kagome cooed as she took her from my arms.
The door suddenly banged open, and we jumped. Elliott was standing in the doorway, a wooden spoon in one hand. "Why are you still here?" he demanded.
"Elliott, we really a have a lot of studying to catch up on," I said, gesturing to the books on my desk. "I've been in a coma, remember? I need to read!"
He scoffed, strode into the room, and grabbed mine and Kagome's arms. Kagome had to drop Sammie on the bed, who barked indignantly. "You girls never learn," he said, sighing as he dragged us out.
Kagome and I exchanged a bewildered look as Elliott dragged us down the stairs and towards the marble kitchen. "What are we supposed to be learning, exactly?" I asked.
Elliott tossed two aprons at us. "Haven't you ever learned that the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach?" he said, brandishing the wooden spoon.
Kagome and I must have given him the exact same stupid looks, because he sighed in exasperation. "Through his stomach," Kagome repeated, looking at me. "Well…I have cooked for Inuyasha before—"
"Oh, you have a boyfriend, too?" Elliott said, rummaging through the cupboards. "Wonderful! You're about to learn a lot from me! I'm quite good in the kitchen."
Now that they were mentioning it…
I had absolutely no idea what Sesshoumaru liked to eat.
Sure, he'd mentioned that he didn't like human food, but he could eat it. I mean, he'd eaten a strawberry I gave him once—that was under 'human food', right? And he did seem to like it…I think.
I had a fleeting mental image of Sesshoumaru eating a cake from the palm of my hand. I blushed. Hm…maybe this wouldn't be such a bad idea after all…
. . .
"Mold…definitely mold."
"No, it looks more like the underside of a slug."
"Or something I'd find at the bottom of a rock."
I felt tiny little balls of despair hovering around me as Elliott, Kagome, and I stared into the pot in front of me. I was supposed to be making mushroom risotto, but it turned out…I don't know. What adjective can you give to a dish of rice that's been compared to mold, the underside of a slug, and something from the bottom of a rock?
"No, no, it looks like the Blob," Elliott was saying.
"Or something out of a chemistry kit," Kagome mused thoughtfully.
"But most definitely Emergency Room worthy," Elliott said, nodding.
"I get it!" I said, exasperated. "I can't cook to save the world." Glumly, I tipped the contents of the pot into the sink…only to find that the rice clung to the pot with the tenacity of gum. The smell of burnt rice hung heavily in the air.
"Not a word," I growled, as Kagome and Elliott began sniggering.
"Not to worry, Antoinette," Elliott said, taking the pot from me. "I'm sure Sesshoumaru appreciates 'dessert' more." He winked, and I blushed.
"You're never going to run out of innuendos, are you?" I glared at him.
He chuckled as he filled the pot with water, allowing the rice to soften. "Innuendos make the world go around," he said cheerfully.
I watched as Kagome dished out a portion of perfectly cooked risotto rice into a Tupperware. Kagome had always been a very good cook. I felt somewhat down at the fact that my cooking would probably send Sesshoumaru to the Emergency Room (was that even possible?).
"Cheer up, Antoinette!" Elliott said. "We'll try again!"
I sighed as I removed the apron. "No, Kagome and I have school in the morning—we need to study, Elliott."
"Actually," Kagome interrupted. "I don't think I'm going in tomorrow. I think I might be coming down with a cold." She gave me a meaningful look punctuated by a sniffle.
I frowned as I understood. Why did she want to go back to the Feudal Era earlier? I had a feeling it had something to do with the Sacred Jewel.
"I think I need to leave now," Kagome said. "It's almost six. Mama will be worried about me."
"Let me walk you out," I said meaningfully.
"Thanks for the cooking lesson, Elliott!" Kagome said as we left the kitchen.
"Come back quickly, Antoinette!" Elliott called out as we left. "Ice cream is pretty easy to make!"
"Well, he's something, all right," Kagome mused as we stepped into the dining room.
"He's an Elliott," I said flatly. As we climbed the stairs back to my room, I frowned. "Kagome, why did you change your mind about going back to the Feudal Era tomorrow?"
We entered my room. Kagome sat on the bed, her eyebrows knit together. She looked as though she was trying to decide how to answer me.
"Do you remember when we purified the Jewel just recently?" she asked.
I sat down on the bed. "Well, yes," I said.
"You fainted, didn't you?" she asked.
"Technically, no," I said, a finger on my chin. "I just got really dizzy, that's all." Kagome bit her lower lip, and I had a really bad feeling that she was trying to downplay whatever it was that she wanted to say. "Just…tell me frankly, Kagome. I think I can handle it."
She exhaled slowly, her eyes fixed on mine. "Inuyasha and I don't think it's a good sign," she said slowly. "The fact that using your spiritual energy takes such a toll on you…"
I tried to keep my voice steady. "So," I said, striving for nonchalance. "What you're saying is…the weaker I grow, the closer I get to dying…right?" I clasped my hands together to keep them from shaking.
Kagome didn't say anything, and I took her silence for 'yes'. "Well, it's simple, isn't it?" I said. "We just need to complete the Jewel. So…you're right. We need to go back tomorrow, and help the others find a way to remove Kohaku's shard without killing him. Should be easy, right?"
She tried to school her expression, tried to remove the anxiety from her eyes. "You're right," she said, smiling at me. "It should be easy enough."
I sighed dramatically. "And I wanted to go shopping for stuff to take back there," I said. "Oh, well, I'm sure I can grab something from the stockroom."
Kagome gave me a pat on the shoulder as she stood, holding her backpack in one hand. "I'll be going now," she said. "You don't need to show me down—I'll be fine." She turned to leave.
"Kagome?"
She stopped, and glanced at me from over her shoulder. "Let's just…let's just keep this to ourselves, okay?" I said as I stood. "Just between you and me? And Inuyasha too, I guess."
She frowned. "What about Sesshoumaru?" she asked.
I shook my head as I glanced down at the carpet. "I don't want him to know," I said, immediately feeling a stab of guilt. I quickly pushed it aside. "I don't want him to worry, and…"
The truth was, I didn't want him to take matters into his own hands—he had already made it clear that he wouldn't hesitate to pull out Kohaku's shard. I didn't want him to do something so…horrible, for my sake.
"Are you sure?" Kagome asked, her tone serious. "Sesshoumaru is not someone you can easily keep a secret from, you know. I get that you're trying to protect Kohaku, but…"
"No," I said. "Just…don't tell him, please? Or anyone else for that matter. Even Kohaku himself."
She looked hesitant. "All right," she said, after a pause. "I just hope you know what you're doing."
I gave her a feeble smile. "So do I," I said.
At that moment, the doors to the balcony slid open. Kagome and I spun around just as Sesshoumaru strode into the room. His cold eyes fell on me, before flickering towards Kagome and settling back on me.
The moment I saw him, all the problems suddenly seemed to fade into the very back of mind as I felt a sense of euphoria settling over me like a cloud.
Sesshoumaru frowned as he stared at me. Uh-oh. Had he heard me and Kagome talking?
"Are you injured?" he asked. His tone was apathetic, but there was a slight hint of worry in his cold eyes.
I stared at him, before I threw Kagome a curious look. I looked down at my hands, then looked back up at Sesshoumaru.
"No, I'm fine," I reassured him. "This era isn't as dangerous as yours."
He raised an eyebrow. "There is a burnt scent in the air," he pointed out.
Burnt…wait. He didn't mean the risotto, did he?
I gave him a flat look as Kagome erupted into a fit of laughter. Wow…did I have to be reminded of my abysmal cooking? And by the person I had been trying to cook for, no less?
"I think I'll leave you two to it," Kagome said, grinning as she opened the door and left.
I blushed as the door closed behind her. I turned back to Sesshoumaru, whose eyes were narrowed as he glanced around. His nostrils flared slightly, and I think he was looking for the source of the burnt scent.
"Nothing's burning, Sesshoumaru," I said, sighing. "Well, except the risotto earlier."
He took a step towards me. "Risotto?"
I felt mortified. "Nothing, it was just…food. I was supposed to be making food—I burnt it." I didn't have the guts to tell him I'd made it for him.
Sesshoumaru was suddenly in front of me, golden eyes intent as he stared at me. My cheeks felt warm as he wound his arms around my waist, drawing me close to him.
"Maybe it was a good thing it burnt," I went on, suddenly aware that I was babbling. Dammit, Clara, say something a little more…alluring, won't you?
"I mean, it would have made anyone sick," I blabbed. "It wasn't fit for consumption."
He raised his eyebrows, amused. "I highly doubt it," he said simply. One of his hands suddenly slipped behind my neck as he drew me in for a kiss.
My eyes widened in surprise as his lips met mine. Blushing, I rose on the balls of my feet, my hands gripping his shoulders tightly.
Sesshoumaru abruptly pulled away, and I opened my eyes. He was looking up at the ceiling. Huh?
I followed his gaze and my eyes widened in surprise as I gasped. Bradley was standing upside down on the ceiling. His emerald eyes were looking down at us with curiosity, his head tilted innocently to one side.
"Bradley!" I stammered, immediately pulling away from Sesshoumaru.
"Clara!" the little demon said. He gave me a mischievous grin. "You and Lord Sesshoumaru are lovers, aren't you? I saw you kissing!" He spoke in English.
I blushed, and Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow at me. I ignored him as I stared up at the shadow demon. "Bradley," I said, switching to English. "It's rude to spy on people."
"But Auntie Alexis told me that I could!" he said, blinking.
It felt like a bucket of ice suddenly cascaded into my stomach. No, no, no...Alexis cannot find out. She'll kill me!
Bradley suddenly jumped from the ceiling and landed with a wobbly kind of grace between me and Sesshoumaru. "Did Auntie Alexis tell you to spy on us?" I asked, feeling even more mortified.
The little boy shook his head. "Not really," he said, twiddling his thumbs and giving me an all-too innocent look. "But she told me to tell her if I came across the two of you alone!"
I blinked. Mom. This...honestly?
"Bradley, you can't tell her, okay?" I said.
"Why?" he asked.
Before I could even think of a plausible excuse, Sesshoumaru suddenly knelt on one knee in front of Bradley. To my surprise, he shook a slender finger at Bradley, accompanied by a stern look. His message was clear—don't do it again.
Bradley hung his head, suddenly the picture of shame. "I'm sorry, Lord Sesshoumaru!" he announced, in English.
I blinked, surprised, as Sesshoumaru stood. "He apologized," I told him.
He nodded once, cold eyes fixed on the child in front of him. Bradley looked thoroughly abashed, like a toddler sent to a corner. I looked at Sesshoumaru. Huh...good with children, indeed.
Bradley chewed on his lower lip, before pointing to Sesshoumaru's fluffy pelt, which he'd left on the bay window seat. The demon lord nodded curtly, and Bradley grinned at us before launching himself towards the window. Delighted, he tugged Sesshoumaru's fluffy pelt onto the floor, hugging it like a giant stuffed animal. I admit...it was a sight that made my knees turn to jelly.
"You know, I can never get over the fact that children seem to like you...a lot," I told him as I felt his fingers closing in around mine. I felt butterflies fluttering in my stomach at his touch.
"Indeed?" he said. The corner of his mouth twitched in amusement. I blushed as he gently stroked my knuckles with his thumb.
He suddenly leaned in towards me, but I leaned away from him. A spark of annoyance flashed in his eyes as he raised an eyebrow at me.
"You know, Bradley is still in the room," I pointed out.
Annoyance turned to amusement as the corner of his mouth twitched again. "I'd give anything to hear you laugh," I blurted out stupidly. I mentally smacked myself.
"Would that please you?" he asked, an eyebrow raised. He wound an arm around my waist, and drew me flush against his side.
"Are you saying you'd do it?" I asked, my eyes widening in disbelief.
"Perhaps," he said noncommittally. I bet he'd never laughed in his life.
Sesshoumaru's gaze suddenly drifted to the door behind me. A moment later, there was a loud bang! as the door was flung open. I gave a small start of surprise as I spun around to find Elliott standing in the open doorway, grinning, both hands behind his back.
"Elliott," I said, sighing. Really...he had perfect timing, as always.
"I'm not surprised to find you here," Elliott said, grinning at Sesshoumaru, who narrowed his eyes at Elliott. I gently gripped his hand, praying that he wouldn't lose his temper. Elliott had a way of doing that to people sometimes.
"But, seeing as Bradley is present, I take it you two have been behaving?" Elliott winked at me, and I blushed.
That's it! I let go of Sesshoumaru's hand, and rounded on Elliott, baring my teeth at him.
"Easy there," Elliott said, unfazed. He held out his hands to show me a gaily wrapped box he'd been hiding behind his back. I blinked, taken aback. "I'm leaving tomorrow, Antoinette," he went on. "You know what a killjoy Dad is...he sent the jet around." He shook his head tragically.
"Anyway, here." He thrust the box into my arms, grinning. "I bought it at Ginza today. Open it!"
"Open it, Clara!" Bradley said, bounding over to us. He dragged Sesshoumaru's fluffy pelt with him.
Still debating on whether or not I should feel annoyed or grateful, I tore the wrapping paper. Bradley tugged the sparkling ribbon from my grasp, and clutched it possessively in his pudgy fist.
I opened the box, and my eyebrows shot up in surprise.
Was that...black lace? And those were ribbons...and that was most definitely a corset...
Lingerie.
My felt my face heating up, as though my head was on fire.
Forget annoyed—Elliott was going to die!
Before I could close the lid, a clawed hand suddenly darted into the box, and withdrew one of the risqué stockings. Good Lord, if you're listening, now would be a very good time for a bolt of lightning to hit me.
"What is this?" Sesshoumaru held up the stocking, an eyebrow raised at me.
"You're kidding, right?" Elliott asked.
"GIVE ME THAT!" I snatched the stocking from Sesshoumaru's grasp, cheeks burning, and blood pounding in my ears. I stuffed it into the box, and closed it. I glared at Elliott.
"What?" Elliott asked innocently. "You know, it adds spice, right?"
Bradley blinked, blissfully unaware of the mature content of the conversation. "Spice," I growled, glaring at Elliott.
He grinned. I became aware of Sesshoumaru's eyes on me, and I inwardly prayed that he couldn't get what Elliott meant.
"Relax, Antoinette, you might get wrinkles," Elliott said. He chuckled. Chuckled. Of all the nerve...
An idea suddenly hit, and I smiled sweetly at Elliott. "You're right," I said, nodding my head gravely. For the first time in quite a long while, I felt a bit…sadistic. "I do need spice in my life."
Ignoring their puzzled looks, I placed the box on the bed and made my way over to my closet and flung it open. I rifled through the clothes until I found what I was looking for—an inky blue cocktail with subtle beadwork.
From the peripheral of my vision, Sesshoumaru quirked an eyebrow at me. Whether he was amused or curious, I couldn't tell.
"I know that one!" Elliott said, his voice and eyes lightening with excitement. "Isn't that the custom made Vera Wang Auntie Rose made you wear during Director Feldman's engagement party?"
"The one and the same," I said, my smile growing sweeter.
"I've always admired that dress!" Elliott said, his tone—predictably—reverent. "Look at the cut! And the beadwork—so subtle, yet eye-catching. If Da Vinci made dresses, he'd have made that."
Holding up the dress in one hand, I traced the beadwork with a finger. "He would have," I agreed—before I tugged one of the beads out.
Elliott's eyes widened in horror. "Antoinette, what on earth you are doing?!" he exclaimed, switching to English. He placed a hand on his chest, his jaw hanging open in dismay, as though I'd physically punched him.
"What?" I said. "This?" I tugged another one out.
"NO!" Elliott screeched. He made a lunge for me, and I sidestepped him. He came rushing past me, nearly hitting the closet.
"You're horrible!" Elliott spun around, face flushed. For a moment, I felt really guilty—but then again, I could always stitch the beads back on.
"Here's the deal," I said, placing my fingers threateningly over another bead. "You stop meddling with my love life, unless I ask you to, got it?"
His face looked so pained, I let out a frustrated sigh. Stupid guilt. "But you can keep the innuendos," I amended.
His face brightened a bit. "Fine," he said, crossing his arms. His chest was still heaving from his earlier shouts of horror.
"And no more lingerie," I growled.
"You're no fun," Elliott said. I suddenly became aware that Sesshoumaru was staring at me, eyebrows raised in definite amusement.
"Elliott, I mean it!" I said.
"Fine, fine, no more lingerie, no more meddling, but I get to keep my innuendos." Maybe I should take back the innuendos. Elliott had a way of getting back at people that would have made Naraku proud.
I bit my lower lip as I nodded reluctantly. "Hand me that," Elliott said, striding over. He took the dress from me, holding it as though it were the Holy Grail. "I'm going to fix this for you, because, unlike you, I'm a good friend who doesn't like making other people miserable. I'm going to give this to you before I leave tomorrow."
I gave him a flat look, and he grinned. He suddenly turned to Bradley, who had been watching our exchange seated on Sesshoumaru's fluffy pelt, one end held in his arms.
"C'mon, Brad, let's leave these two lovebirds alone," he said, in English. He held out his hand, and Bradley reluctantly stood. "Oh, and Sesshoumaru?" he added, switching to Japanese.
Sesshoumaru regarded him with an apathetic look, and a sudden sense of dread came over me. Elliott grinned as he pointed to the box on the bed. "You should let her wear it sometime—it definitely adds a lot of spice."
My face burned. "ELLIOTT!"
"Au revoir!" Elliott banged the door behind them.
Very reluctantly, I turned to Sesshoumaru. Once again, the corner of his mouth twitched as he regarded me with mirth. Despite the embarrassment I felt, I just had one thought: laugh. I really did want to hear him laugh.
I cleared my throat, trying to find a topic that didn't involve lingerie. "Anyway," I said. "Kagome and I have decided to go back tomorrow—to the Feudal Era, I mean." Suddenly, thinking of the Feudal Era made me remember the real reason we were going back—and the secret I was keeping from Sesshoumaru.
Sesshoumaru nodded, all traces of amusement immediately gone. "If that is your wish," he said simply.
For a moment, we stared at each other. I hastily looked down as Kagome's voice suddenly echoed through my head…
"Sesshoumaru is not someone you can easily keep a secret from…"
Sesshoumaru suddenly took a step towards me. He tilted my chin upward, and my eyes widened in surprise as he looked down at me.
"You're troubled," he said quietly.
I blushed, and hastily took a step away from him. "It's nothing," I said, shaking my head and smiling at him. "It's just…you know, Elliott being annoying. I'm fine, really." He narrowed his eyes slightly—analytically. Could he sense duplicity? "Anyway, I…I need to see if my mother's home. I've got to tell her we're leaving tomorrow."
I turned and hastily went out the door, before Sesshoumaru could see the lie in my eyes.
.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.
Sesshoumaru
I watched as Clara stepped out the door, closing it softly behind her. I frowned—I had seen the trouble in her eyes, and I sensed it had nothing to do with the peculiar mortal.
I remembered the way she averted her eyes, and pulled away from my touch. Hn.
My gaze shifted to the small chest of drawers. I made my way to it, and pulled the top drawer open. There was a lacquered box inside. I opened it to reveal the Sacred Jewel nestled within folds of silk. My frown deepened.
Its darkness had spread again.
.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.
Clara
Cruel.
If there was a word I would have used to describe myself, it was that I was a cruel woman, with a wicked heart.
As a warrior, I am all too acquainted with the value of sacrifice, and thus I knew that this sacrifice was necessary; knew that, for the greater good, one had to suffer. I knew this, and yet...
Why did my heart feel so troubled?
As I stood amidst the sea of demons that surrounded me, I placed a hand over my chest, where my heart had once been. I could feel the power that flowed slowly back to me, like a steady trickle of water.
In my mind's eye, I could see the life the girl might live if I spare her. It would be a good life—I imagine that she would be happy alongside the demon she loved.
Demon she loved...
I smiled bitterly as I grasped the hilt of my blade tightly. Once upon a time, I, too, had loved in such a fashion—to no avail.
"I see that your thoughts run deep...Midoriko."
I looked up, frowning, as I clutched my sword tightly. A pair of blood-red eyes leered at me from amidst the wall of demons that surrounded me.
"Do you, perhaps, feel guilt?"
"I am not wholly heartless as you would believe...Naraku." I raised my blade, and pointed it at the wall of demons.
"Perhaps you are lying to yourself." The eyes narrowed with malicious amusement.
I lunged towards the wall of demons as I slashed my blade.
. . .
I gasped as my eyes flew open, my heart pounding in my chest.
That dream...
It had been a while since I'd had one of those dreams again. Before, they had done nothing but confuse me. But now, it suddenly became so obvious...
I was seeing into Midoriko's mind, looking through her eyes. It did make a lot of sense, seeing as she was my other half.
And what had I seen?
A wall of demons rising on either side of me. It wasn't the wall of demons that frightened me, no—it was that pair of red eyes.
Naraku.
He, along with the original darkness within the jewel, was trying to overcome Midoriko's light, but she was resisting. And part of the reason was that she was slowly taking her—my—soul back.
I clenched the duvet tightly, narrowing my eyes at the dim room, at the shaft of moonlight that spilled through the windows. If there had been any doubt about Kasai's words, this completely put them all to rest.
Now what do I do?
The bed suddenly sagged, and I quickly sat up, alarmed, to find Sesshoumaru sitting beside me, leaning against the headboard.
I blushed. "You were frightened," he observed. In the dim light, I could make out the slight frown he wore.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm the pounding in my chest. "It was nothing, just a dream," I said, smiling reassuringly. I didn't think he'd have any trouble seeing me in the dim light.
"Regarding?"
I looked down at my hands curled on my lap. "Just…demons and darkness," I said, which was true, anyway. "It's nothing to be worried about. Maybe I'm just really excited about going back to the Feudal Era."
Sesshoumaru was silent for a moment. I felt the bed sag as he suddenly moved. His clawed hand suddenly closed around my wrist.
"Come here," he said quietly.
I blushed as he pulled me towards him, and the next thing I knew I found my head resting on his lap. He looked down at me, his cold eyes intent. My face felt so hot, it must probably be glowing in the dim light.
Sesshoumaru brushed a tendril of hair from my face. "Sleep, Clara," he said quietly. "Mere demons cannot slip past me."
I smiled at him. On an impulse, I reached up, slipping my hand behind his neck as I drew him down towards me. He kissed me deeply, before he pulled away.
He placed a hand on my shoulder. "Sleep," he repeated.
I snuggled into his lap, and closed my eyes.
I didn't dream of Midoriko at all.
.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.
Kagome
"Jeez, what's taking them so damn long?"
I sighed as I crossed my legs. I was sitting on the stone bench, beneath the Goshinboku, watching as Inuyasha paced back and forth in front of me, arms crossed. I already had my backpack beside me, and it was full to bursting with things I was bringing back to the Feudal Era.
"Sesshoumaru is doing this on purpose," Inuyasha huffed, pouting. "Jerk."
I sighed. "Someone's being paranoid," I pointed out. "Relax, Inuyasha, it's not even eight yet."
Inuyasha was about to say something, when he looked up and, at the same time, I could sense the presence of the Sacred Jewel. A gust of wind swirled around us as a familiar orb of light landed close to the well shrine.
"About damn time," Inuyasha growled as the light faded to reveal Sesshoumaru and Clara. He had one arm wrapped securely around her waist (it was quite satisfying to see, actually).
"Hi!" Clara said cheerfully as she pulled away from Sesshoumaru. She had her purple backpack slung across one shoulder. She was back to wearing her haori and hakama, Shinsei strapped to her waist. She had a wide grin on her face. Well, someone seems happy this morning.
"Sorry," she said apologetically to Inuyasha. "My mother and I had to see Elliott off this morning."
"Elliott left?" I asked as I stood.
Clara nodded. "He just left this morning," she said. "His father wanted him home. And, actually, Alexis was a bit hesitant about letting me come back…" For a moment, her eyes flashed with guilt, before she shook her head and smiled. "Anyway, let's go."
Inuyasha ambled over and hefted my backpack off the ground. "Kagome, are you trying to stuff your entire house in here?" he asked, slinging the bulging pack over one shoulder.
"Well, if someone didn't insist on twenty bowls of ramen…" I said, glaring at him.
"You can't count food!" Inuyasha snapped.
"My bento lunches are more nutritious!" I huffed.
"Well, I prefer the ramen!" he said. His eyes suddenly widened in surprise. I glared. "Er…I mean—"
Before I could say the word, there was a loud thud! of wood. Inuyasha and I spun around to find Sesshoumaru—in all his armored glory—standing by the open doors of the well shrine, a clawed hand placed impatiently on one of the sliding doors.
"Keep your pants on," Inuyasha said as we made our way towards the well shrine.
Inuyasha and I were the first ones to jump into the well. We emerged in the Feudal Era to find Sango and the others gathered in the clearing, waiting for us. Sango and Miroku were sitting underneath a tree, Miroku sporting a fresh handprint on his face. Kohaku, Shippou, and Rin were playing with Ah-Un on the far side of the clearing.
"Kagome!" Sango greeted as she ran over. She gave me a hug in greeting, and grinned. "It's so good to see you again!"
"Kagome!" Shippou greeted happily as he, Kohaku, and Rin immediately ran over to us.
"Sorry for the wait, everyone!" I said. I felt a familiar warmth envelop me as I stared at them all.
"It was no problem, Kagome," Miroku said.
"Where is Lord Sesshoumaru?!"
I looked down, surprised, to find Jaken sitting on the ground, glaring up at me. "He and Clara were right behind us," I said. Jaken huffed. For a moment, I wondered how he would react when he found out about those two. Well…it would be really funny to see.
A white blur suddenly shot out of the well. Sesshoumaru landed gracefully on the ground, an arm around Clara's waist.
"Lord Sesshoumaru! Clara!" Rin said happily as she ran towards them.
"Rin!" Clara said as Rin launched herself into her arms.
"I missed you a lot!" Rin said, grinning up at her.
Clara knelt in front of her, and drew Rin into a tight hug. "I missed you, too," she said, smiling.
Rin's eyes suddenly flashed with mischief. She leaned towards Clara, and whispered something in her ear. Clara's eyes widened slightly, and she blushed. Beside me, Inuyasha sniggered, eyes darting to his elder brother, whose expression remained nonchalant.
"Lord Sesshoumaru!" Jaken cried out, throwing himself at his master's feet. "Milord! Your most humble servant has been waiting a long time for your return!"
"You saw him yesterday, didn't you?" Shippou said flatly. Jaken threw him a dirty look.
Miroku, Sango, and Kohaku laughed. Jaken turned his bulbous eyes towards them, staff waved menacingly in the air. "Shut up, you worthless mortals!" Jaken snapped.
They laughed even harder.
Just when I thought the scene couldn't have been more complete, Sesshoumaru suddenly frowned, golden eyes darting to the clear blue skies. At the same time, Inuyasha tensed beside me, his frown mirroring his brother's.
"Sesshoumaru, what's wrong?" Clara asked, as she stood. Everyone seemed to sense the tension in the air. Rin clung tightly to Clara's side, while Sango and Miroku followed Sesshoumaru's gaze.
Without answering her, Sesshoumaru stood in front of Clara and Rin, eyes fixed firmly on the sky. "This scent," Inuyasha said.
I looked up, and my eyes widened in surprise. Silhouetted against the blue sky, partially hidden behind the clouds, was the outline of a giant dog…
A moment later, there was a loud bang! as a column of light shot towards the ground in front of us. Dust and rubble flew into the air. Inuyasha was suddenly beside me, one draped protectively across my shoulders.
"What was that?" Sango asked, coughing.
The dust gradually settled down to reveal a familiar woman standing in the middle of the clearing, her silver hair glinting softly in the early morning sunlight. Her golden eyes flashed with amusement as she glanced at our bemused expressions, before they finally settled on Sesshoumaru.
"Sesshoumaru," she said, her tone laced with mirth. "Clara."
Sesshoumaru frowned slightly. "Mother," he greeted.
.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.:.
Kouga: *to Sesshoumaru* say it again, pretty boy! I dare you! I double dare you motherfu—
A1969: Kouga, can it! You're not Samuel Jackson.
Sesshoumaru: how uncouth. As is befitting of a mere wolf.
Kagome: oh, no…this will not end well.
Kouga: I'll show you, Mr. Man-Slash-Woman!
Sesshoumaru: *glares and draws out Bakusaiga*
A1969: Inuyasha, stop them!
Inuyasha: nah *popcorn*
Miroku: bets, anyone?
Sango: money's on Sesshoumaru!
Inuyasha: hey!
A1969: I could use a ticket to Hawaii right about now. Anyway…please don't forget to review guys!