After scaling their second mountain in as many days, the trio was growing weary.

They now needed to reach the tigers' province without the help of the bridge, and the landscape was proving very disobliging.

The mountains were hard enough to traverse; seeing as there were dozens of them, and not many were accommodating enough to allow for suitable passage. But the wide, rushing river that divided the territories was so large and brutal that it basically served as a moat, for all intents and purposes. Kagome could see why they'd chosen the location for a compound. It was a highly defendable property, to the point of seeming like it were a code that needed cracking. Or some kind of messed up maze.

She could also see why humans didn't venture this far out.

As far as Sesshoumaru could gather, there were two possible ways they would be able to journey over by foot. The first being a pathway that curled around the edge of the territory. If they found it, they would be able to gain access to the province via a stretch of land that would take them to the side of the property. But they had to get their landmarks just right, and cross some rugged, mountainous canyons first to get to the other side. This had been deemed the long way.

The second, was that there was a small portion of the river which narrowed substantially, but only for a short distance. The bulk of the river was far too wide and wild to simply doggy paddle across, and they obviously had no mode of transportation. But if they could locate this thin stretch of water, it would be possible to cross it without much effort or risk. After crossing, they would find themselves a short climb away from the village they were seeking. This had been deemed the wet way.

Seeing as time was very much a factor, and they had their companions nervously awaiting their arrival, it was agreed that dryness would be sacrificed in favor of efficiency.

But first, they had to get over this damn mountain range. And so far, every route they had taken had led them to some sort of impasse. They needed to find the correct trails, let alone be on the right mountain. As of now, they were only about 60% sure they had the latter nailed.

But with each dead-end trail they discovered, they were placing their instincts further into question. At this point, it felt like they were operating under process of elimination. And though all were doing their damnedest not to put voice to their discouragement, it was obvious the constant failure was starting to take its toll.

"Will you finally admit to leading us astray?"

Once they'd made it off the first mountain – the one with the shoddy bridge – Kagome eagerly snatched the map and began devising a plan.

She had her trusty compass, and more than a little practice finding her way through the woods. When shown where the section of river they were looking for lie, she was confident she could get them there with minimal difficulty.

It looked pretty straight forward on the map. And as none of them had ever been to this area before, she figured that one guess was as good as another.

"It wasn't astray when we started. That stupid mountain took us somewhere we didn't want to go."

Unfortunately, the map was misleading. What looked like a straight shot over the mountain was rife with perils ranging from undisclosed drop offs to avalanche debris. Perhaps even an earthquake or two had rendered the area impossible for man to scale.

So, not for the first time, and after another full day of hiking, they were forced to turn around and come up with a new plan on the fly.

"So, it is the mountain's stupidity that is to blame?" Sesshoumaru asked the navigator, as she claimed a seat on a toppled tree.

"No, don't be ridiculous." She pulled off her sneaker and emptied the rocks she had collected on their upward trek. Brushing the dirt off her sock, she repeated the process with the other shoe.

"Then whom?" he pressed, looming near as she got resituated.

Inuyasha had scampered off, assumedly to relieve himself.

"It's the compass's fault." She pulled the map from her back pocket to look over for the millionth time. Once she did, he claimed the seat at her side.

"Ah, your magnet tool is to blame." He leaned over to join her in attempting to make sense of their most recent failure.

"Yes. We wanted to go east. I took us east. It's not my fault this stupid compass didn't know the mountain would force us north."

To be fair, the route looked good on paper. But experience told him they might have more obstacles than advertised. It was an honest error, but one that had cost them a day's travel.

"So the mountain is stupid, and your compass is stupid. And what of the fool who follows them?"

"A victim of circumstance," she insisted, doing her best to correct this as quickly as possible. "Besides, you were following me, so it doesn't speak well of you either."

"I rather insisted we go around the mountain. Yet, I was shot down immediately, in favor of the compass." He was quick to remind her of that. He was not impressed with the human device that she seemed to put so much faith in. His internal compass had never steered him wrong before. And though not as accurate without his demonic youki, he maintained that his instincts were still fit to be trusted.

"Look. We went the right way. There was just... too much stuff in the way."

Inuyasha returned, wary of interjecting while they were going at it.

Though frustrations were doubtless very high, they had each done well at keeping their tempers in check. He knew how they liked to deal with frustration. So as long as heads remained cool, he was willing to let them get it out of their system.

But things were growing dire. They had already spent one night on a mountainside. Two, if you counted the first one when they were still all together. It looked like now they would be forced to do so again. And without Kagome's backpack, water and food and fires were much harder to come by. He would be forced to hunt.

"If we cannot get where we want to go, then it was not the right way."

"How was I supposed to know? I followed the compass." Sesshoumaru watched as she turned the thing about in her grip, and resisted the urge to rip it out of her hands and throw it as far as he could manage.

Luckily, he had more self-control than that, for now.

"Oh, I don't know," he intoned sarcastically, and she braced for impact. "Perhaps you should have listened to the only one of us to have crossed these borders? Though this area is beyond my patrol, I am aware of the various natural boundaries which form these lands. It does not take a genius to-"

"Okay, I get it," she finally snapped back at him. "I fucked up. Happy?"

"Hardly." Now that that was out of the way, he plucked the map from her to peruse for himself.

"What do we do now?" she asked meekly, and Inuyasha finally crossed over to join them.

"Our options, from what I can gather, are as follows: We continue north on this path," he pointed to the fork in the trail that had foiled them. "Which will likely take us deeper through the vast range of mountains. I have never been through them, and do not know what awaits on the other side. Or how long it will take."

"Or?" Inuyasha prompted, leaning in to try and see better.

"We get down to the river. We can make it by nightfall. But then we need a boat. And unless we get incredibly lucky, I doubt we will find one." Luck was not something either of them were banking on at the moment. "Constructing one will take another day, but then we need to cross the river where it is not particularly forgiving. That's at least two nights sleeping in the cold, and very likely wet. But once we cross, I am confident I will know where we are going."

"Or?" Kagome asked this time, very wary of the answer.

"Or, we simply turn around the way we came. It means we spend a night on the mountain, lose another day, and end up where we started. But at least we will know where we are. It is the safest bet."

None of them had much experience simply taking the safest path. The motto 'gamble big, win big' had served them all relatively well.

But they'd been on a losing streak recently. And though statistically due for a win, the burn of their losses were still painfully fresh. The kami were speaking, and they were willing to take the hint.

"I hate the thought of losing all that time," Inuyasha admitted. He was not alone in that sentiment. "More will be lost if we encounter any problems going forward."

There were no attractive options here. Kagome decided that maybe it was time to think outside the box.

"Inuyasha can go ahead," she suggested. That was another unattractive option. But it might be their best bet.

Without she and Sesshoumaru, Inuyasha could get himself over faster, and find their friends. Then, they would at least know they were okay. And maybe they could find help.

"Alone?" he asked pensively. She knew it would be a hard sell to get him to leave her. But she wouldn't be by herself.

"Go ahead," she implored. "Find Miroku and Sango. Get someone in the village to lend you a boat, then meet us by the river. The two of us will walk and when you get back, we will row over." Someone over there had to have a boat, and she was confident that Miroku could charm them out of it. The river would still be dicey, but it would definitely hold up better than whatever whack canoe they could fashion with a hunting knife rush job.

But Inuyasha shook his head.

"I ain't leavin' you." Kagome deflated. "Come with me. I'll carry you on my back, and we'll come back for him." She was about to protest, but she never got the chance.

"Inuyasha is right." Her head whipped to the side to stare incredulously at Sesshoumaru. "He can take you over to your friends, and I will find shelter here."

Now it was Kagome's turn to protest.

"No. It's my fault we're lost."

"Yes. It is. Will you listen to me now?" At this point she was loathe to defy him, but her distaste for this plan made it impossible to agree. He gentled his tone, and tried to sound commanding. Not that it ever worked with her before. "Go. I will manage."

It seemed that for once, the brothers were united on this one. But she couldn't make herself adhere. She dug in her heels.

"I'm not leaving you."

Sesshoumaru sighed, prepared to fight her on this.

"Yeah, me either."

He snapped his head nervously to his brother. He saw himself quickly losing ground and tried to remain firm.

"Inuyasha-"

"No. We'll just go back the way we came. It's better not to split up."

He wasn't happy about it, but it seemed like it was settled.

Resigned, Sesshoumaru stood, and wordlessly made his way back down the path. The others scrambled to follow.

He was done indulging her for now. Done with well-meaning mikos, and magnet tools, he was determined to lead them around this particular mountain as he originally suggested. But dusk would soon be upon them.

For now, he had to get them as far down the mountain as he could before dark. On the way, they'd be looking for a suitable place to bunker down for the night, and hopefully the methods and means to procure a meal.

Unfortunately, Sesshoumaru's plan hadn't fared any better. The path around the mountain did not lead to the river, but rather another mountain. At this point, they had given up on looking for the thin stretch of river and were willing to settle for the river in any capacity. Had they decided to brave the rapids in the first place, they would have been over days ago, instead of tangled up in this never-ending labyrinth of canyons that was the Northern Mountain Range.

Every time they thought they'd had it, the terrain had forced them in a direction that was both unintended and undesired. It seemed like every corner they turned was taking them further and further away from their goal.

And they were getting weaker.

Kagome couldn't say how many days they'd been at it, or even how many mountains they'd been on. All she knew was that if it wasn't for Inuyasha, they would probably be well on their way to starvation. They certainly wouldn't have the energy to walk.

It was for that very reason he refused her constant request to go on without them. He could travel more ground than they could. But if he left them behind, they would have no means to feed themselves. Kagome still had her bow, and Sesshoumaru his knife. But these mountains were desolate. It seemed that not only did humans deem it unsuitable, but all forms of wildlife too. Not to mention demons.

They decided it was a good thing that they hadn't encountered any dangerous youkai, puma or otherwise. But there was an eerie sense of desertion. Like everyone else was already aware they couldn't survive out here.

Still, he knew that if he had listened to them days ago, he probably could have been back for them by now. But he wouldn't leave them. Especially not tonight.

They took a break from mountaineering once the green valley was spotted. Encased by the tallest cluster of mountains yet, the new growth shined like a beacon to the weary travelers. In addition to simply being isolated, the mountains were also steep. Inuyasha could fare just fine, but the humans were overtaxed to constantly be trudging up and down hills all day long. The valley was a nice break.

But most importantly, there was grass. Grass meant there was water, and water meant there was probably food. With any luck, they could score an easy meal, and with even more luck, the river would be nearby. Kagome kept thinking she heard it off in the distance, but seeing as Inuyasha hadn't mentioned anything she was wondering if exhaustion wasn't causing her to hallucinate.

When they finally arrived, Kagome never thought she'd be so happy to see a swampy bog. They hadn't found a drop to drink all day, and her lips felt like they were starting to curl up her teeth in dehydration. The water was mucky, but she had a little trick up her sleeve.

She had to restrain herself from kneeling in the stuff, opting instead to crouch low and cup the dirty bog water in both of her hands. A blast of her reiki later, the water was purified, and she greedily gulped down the entirety of what she held. She repeated the process several times until Sesshoumaru finally approached and crouched down beside her.

He marveled at the burst of cleansing light that shot through her palms and turned the swamp water into something you would find in a refreshing mountain spring. In the past, if he had been so close when she'd pulled something like that, his skin would have burned from the sheer proximity. It was wild to be so near to the power that would normally work to repel him with everything it had.

She held her hands out in offering, and he met her eyes a moment before silently lowering his lips to drink what she made for him. He would also repeat the process several times, and she enjoyed the way his lips tickled her skin as he drained the last of each portion.

Her simple gift would sustain him for another day at least, and he recognized that none other than her could have managed such a feat. Without her holy powers and generous spirit, he would have been forced to lap up mud water like a common dog, and likely take on some parasites in the process. It was humbling, and he was more than willing to drink out of the pretty girl's hands.

Inuyasha always refused. As a half demon, he didn't need such considerations. Instead, he was scouring the grounds, looking for something nutritious to put in their stomachs.

"Thank you," Sesshoumaru deigned, once he'd had his fill. It was a great relief to feel moisture in his mouth again.

"Of course," she replied, and then they sat, side by side in the grass to get a little rest while they waited for their alpha to return.

Bickering aside, an unspoken comradery had solidified between them. After the bridge incident, there was no question of their devotion to one another's safety. They hadn't spoken of it, but their determination to cross the mountains proved a fine distraction from the traumatizing event, and the flurry of emotions that roiled beneath the surface and clamored to be acknowledged.

But with each failure, their confidence was eroding. It was only a matter of time before they were spotted, and the likelihood the encounter would be friendly did not seem high.

"You must convince him to go ahead." She turned to see Sesshoumaru staring off into the valley.
"We need to locate that river."

Inuyasha didn't want to separate, and the constant assumption that their destination was just around the corner stifled their ability to concoct a long-term plan.

"I tried; he won't go for it. He won't leave us."

"He won't leave you." She reluctantly met his gaze. She knew what he was going to suggest. "Go with him."

Inuyasha could carry her to the river, and likely find them a way across. As much as he loathed the idea of waiting to be rescued, he hated more the thought that he was holding them back.

But Kagome was stubborn.

"I already told you-"

"You do me no favors by staying behind. With his speed, you will locate the river in no time. I am certain you will find the path. You may return for me then. I shall wait."'

He wasn't wrong. She was confident Inuyasha could eventually find the way. But the thought of leaving him behind was unpalatable.

"We cannot continue like this. Your friends cannot wait forever, either."

She heard the plea in his tone. Begging didn't suit him.

She furrowed her brow in frustration, and sighed heavily into her chest.

"If only I'd listened to you that first day."

"It would not have made a difference," he quickly assured her. "My leadership brought us here as well."

It was true. The original route he had planned did not pan out, just like all the others. They'd tried every logical route so far, but none had brought them to the other side. It was maddening.

"I shouldn't have gone after him on the bridge." She cradled her knees against her chest as she lamented into them sadly.

Regret adorned her features as the consequences of her rash decision continued to weigh her down.

"No." He had to agree. He'd made his displeasure at her actions more than clear. But this extended side trip was the least of his concerns regarding her reckless choices.

"If I'd only had faith in him..." She looked across the valley to see the hanyou in question had reemerged. From there, she could not see what he'd managed to capture for them. "But now look how much trouble I've caused."

He wanted to correct her behavior, and consequences proved quite effective in that regard. But she had the habit of beating herself up much more than was helpful. Despite agreeing with her, he softened his features and attempted to assuage.

"You only wished to help."

She let out a light scoff and dropped her eyes to her lap.

"And look where that got us."

"It is pointless to dwell on such things. Concentrate on fixing it." It was all he was trying to get across. Mistakes are never in vain if they aid in self-improvement. You only are a failure if you let those things defeat you. He saw each crisis as an opportunity to flourish, and show resilience. He just hoped she learned her lesson.

"Go with him," he implored again. His brother was getting closer. "Find the river. Then return to me... If you desire."

Her eyes flew wide at the insinuation, and she became angry he would even imply that she would leave him behind.

"Of course I do. I don't even want to leave you." Just the thought of it made her heart ache, and her stomach twist into knots.

"But you must," he insisted firmly. "Use your head, woman."

"As opposed to what?" He smirked at the inside joke, pleased her mood had lightened enough to tease him.

Inuyasha was nearly upon them. It looked like they would be feasting upon mountain lizard tonight. Inwardly, she sighed.

She didn't want to listen. But defying him hadn't been working out great for them so far. She didn't like it, but she was going to have to relent and do as he'd asked.

"I'll do it tomorrow." She stood to greet the half demon, brushing damp grass off her butt. He quickly followed suit.

"No, do it now-"

"No." The sharp edge to her tone was unexpected, and intriguing. "Just trust me on this."

Something was off. He had gotten to know the woman's various moods rather well, and there was something final in her voice and demeanor that spoke of deeper meaning. She was hiding something.

"Why?" he asked suspiciously, narrowing his eyes and tilting his head slightly to the side. She got the feeling she was being appraised.

She turned to meet his eyes, right before Inuyasha came to present his kill.

"You'll see."

Sesshoumaru had been rather impressed with his companions thus far. Despite the harrowing setback, less than ideal conditions and frustrating barrage of dead ends, the three of them had managed to keep their wits about them and not turn on each other.

Considering the brothers' history, it was really quite remarkable.

But Inuyasha had been getting progressively more pissy as the day went on. His comments were clipped – if he deigned to speak at all – but for the most part, he wore his irritable scowl with his hand on his hilt, and seemed to be looking over his shoulder at every turn.

He was anticipating something. At first, Sesshoumaru thought perhaps his demon senses were picking up the scent of an enemy approaching. They were certainly due for a run in of some kind. But as the day wore on, and they made their way up the largest mountain they had encountered so far, he was beginning to believe it was something else.

He was used to the whelp's distrust of him; his disdain. But even though he had begun to relax slightly in his presence these days, his current behavior brought him back to a time when they couldn't cross paths without sticking steel in each other's faces.

He wondered if he was going to need to fight him.

But he had been acting icy toward the miko as well. Not as much as himself, but still to a degree that warranted his suspicion. Something odd was going on here, and with the miko's cryptic warning back in the valley, he intended on asking him.

Kagome, however, had other plans. She seemed to prefer just backing up and giving the boy some space. And in doing so, it put the full force of her attention and conversation on him. He had to admit, he wasn't really minding that.

"I did it! I did it!" Kagome clapped excitedly when the pile of wood and brush before them suddenly burst into flames and came to life. And not a moment too soon...

The sun was beginning to set, and with the density of tall, leafy trees encompassing the plateau, it would not be long before it was nearly too dark to see.

Sesshoumaru had rightly mocked her when she admitted she wouldn't be able to start the fire without the aid of her matches which, unfortunately, were in her backpack with Miroku across the river. But it didn't take much coaxing to get him to offer her a brief lesson in Wilderness Survival 101.

Once they'd decided to make camp for the night on the large, level platform halfway up the enormous mountain, he took her on a mission to gather the necessary supplies and commenced their training.

It took a bit of practice, but after about twenty minutes of snobby taunting and unladylike curses, the skewered lizard bodies caught earlier in the day were finally ready to cook.

"There. You see." Sesshoumaru couldn't conceal his pride. Sure, it was relatively a simple, unimpressive thing. But her satisfaction was palpable. Absolutely infectious. And it was a nice respite from the grueling death march they'd been subjected to. Not to mention the increasingly sour mood of a certain unhappy camper.

Inuyasha sat way off to the side. Hands in his sleeves and Tetsusaiga resting causally against his shoulder, he seemed to switch off between irritably glaring daggers at the couple, and pretending they didn't exist.

"I never started a fire without matches before! That was so cool." She grabbed the prepared skewers and dug the pointy tips into the earth surrounding the flames to get a good roast going. They weren't the most delicious of animals, but she'd definitely been subjected to worse.

"I told you, it is not difficult." He was slightly amused at how discouraged she had been at the get go. You'd think he insisted she learn to speak Chinese in a single evening. Her biggest obstacle tended to be herself more often than not. She was her own worst adversary, and a formidable one at that. If he could just rid her of that obnoxious, detrimental self-doubt, he would be eager to see what truly great feats she could accomplish.

"Inuyasha! Did you see?" She asked her silent companion after sticking the last of the lizards into the dirt. Getting no reply, she tried again.

"Inuyasha?"

"Yeah, you started a fire, big deal," he snapped. "I start fires all the time."

Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes at the defensive young man. What was going on with him? He was acting so... insecure.

He'd half-expected a 'sit' for his rude behavior toward her, but the miko seemed willing to take his unfortunate attitude in stride. He was slightly disappointed.

"Well, I'm proud of me," she announced haughtily, sticking her nose in the air. Sesshoumaru smirked at her self-congratulations, and warmed a bit when she placed a grateful hand on his bicep. She was beaming at him. "And it's all thanks to the best wilderness teacher in the whole world."

"Ridiculous," he scoffed, inexplicably embarrassed at her fawning. She might as well be praising him for teaching her to put on shoes.

"No, you are." She seemed intent on showing her gratitude, however, so he made a small concession.

"Perhaps the most patient." The slight barb made her gushing somehow more comfortable to endure, but he enjoyed the smirk she returned once the friendly dig registered.

"Hey! Do you guys wanna go make out somewhere else, please? I can't really afford to lose my lunch right now."

The crude commentary startled them out of their little moment, and the hanyou received twin death glares for his trouble.

Was that it? Was his half-brother growing weary of his budding friendship with his miko? Was he jealous, or did he feel that he was encroaching?

Perhaps he assumed they were more involved than they were. If so, he hadn't eluded to it before.

"You don't have to be a jerk; I was just excited," she chided, annoyed at him for unnecessarily stirring the pot. Things were tough enough already without his constant aggravation.

"Yeah, we all know you're excited around the fucker. Every youkai in a 5-mile radius can smell it." Kagome faltered at his crude assessment; her incredulity easily eclipsed by the humiliation of knowing he could discern such a thing. If it was true, she hated how he could invade her privacy like that.

Reining in her upset, she clenched her fists tightly at her sides and grit her teeth.

"I'm going to let that slide, because I know your time of the month is coming up."

But, or course, her announcement only made him more enraged.

"Shut up! You don't get to tell him my business, Kagome!"

He leapt to his feet; a day full of anxiety and fear finally coming to a head. Stress was rolling off him in waves.

Kagome had been appeasing him so far, but she'd finally had enough. It didn't matter anymore anyway.

"The sun's almost down, Inuyasha. He is going to find out whether we tell him or not."

"Shut UP!"

"Seriously, what's your plan?" she wondered, rounding on him as he stuck his sword back into his obi. "Do you plan on hiding all night? Because there is no way I'm letting you go off on your own when you're like that."

He knew he was being ridiculous. He knew it was futile at this point. But it wasn't just for his protection that he kept his well-guarded secret.

His brother hadn't done anything terrible so far, but he still didn't trust him enough to let him loose on the world with this knowledge.

He was losing control over one of the last things he had control over. And on top of that, he still had a complex about appearing weak in front of others, not least of all his cruel older brother.

"Just tell him," she pleaded, softening her approach. "What do you think he's going to do? You have to trust him."

But that was much easier said than done.

"He's gonna exploit it later, I just know it."

To be fair, his accusation was not without precedent. But that was before.

A part of him was uncomfortable with the idea of trusting him at all. That it was even possible was deeply unsettling.

"For what? If you haven't noticed, he's having a human night 24/7 right now." But then, something occurred to her. Maybe she'd been going about this all wrong. Maybe he wasn't afraid of Sesshoumaru using the knowledge against him. He was more sensitive than he let on.

Perhaps he was simply worried about being mocked. It was also not without precedent. "I don't think you are going to shock him."

"Tell him what, exactly?" Tired of being spoken of as if he wasn't standing right there, the elder brother encouraged the confession.

She glared at Inuyasha pointedly, her expectation clear. When it was not forthcoming, she turned to the other man.

"If you won't do it, I will. Sesshoumaru-" Before she could finish, he brushed past her in a blur of angry red, leaving the two of them standing alone by the fire.

"Yes?" he prompted expectantly, tearing her concerned gaze back from the trail her friend had stormed off into.

She looked up into his patient features, yearning to clue him in. But she couldn't do it.

"Dammit." She deflated. "He should be the one to tell you." Walking back over to the fire, she pulled two of the lizard skewers out of the ground and handed them to him. "Here, bring him this and make him tell you."

He raised an eyebrow, considering her request a moment. Finally, he relented and took them from her. He started to make off down the trail, her voice trailing after him as he ventured.

"And please, be nice. You more than anyone should understand."

This particular mountain was so large, it would have been possible to house several villages. Around their camping area was definitely large enough to get lost in. So, Sesshoumaru was relieved that after only a few minutes of walking, he found Inuyasha sitting atop a small rock structure with his sword once again propped against his shoulder. He strode over to join him.

"So you know?" he asked grumpily, a touch of nervousness there too.

Sesshoumaru claimed the large rock to his side, crossing his legs and handing one of the lizards to his half-brother.

"I have my suspicions. However, the miko has revealed nothing."

Inuyasha scoffed, turning his head from the offered meal.

"Yeah, right."

"I speak the truth." He continued to hold out the stick, and Inuyasha eyed it a second before finally accepting.

They ate together in silence, making quick work of the dinner he caught. When they were through, they returned the DIY skewers to nature.

The uneasy tension was awash with sorrow, and Sesshoumaru recognized the boy's need to have his fears allayed. Neither looked at the other as he spoke.

"Whatever you are hiding, I would have you know that anything I learn while in your pack will remain between us." He slid his gaze to him, noting how tense he appeared. "And I also will not use such information against you in the future. I should hope you will grant me the same courtesy."

Inuyasha looked nervously over to his brother, and finally relaxed his shoulders into somewhat of a slouch.

He supposed he really was being silly. Sesshoumaru would be in more trouble than him if anyone found out about his current situation. He wondered what would happen when they did; it was only a matter of time.

"Keh. Guess you're gonna find out anyway." He turned to him slightly and closed his eyes in resignation. Sesshoumaru mirrored his action, and remained silent. "Tonight's the new moon. That means that as soon as the sun goes down, I'm gonna be a weak human just like you. And I'm gonna stay that way until sunrise."

He paused for a beat, and prepared himself for the taunting he had expected. But it was not quick in coming, and as the silence persisted he found himself growing anxious that his brother just get on with it already.

"And?"

"And?" The hanyou repeated incredulously, and opened his eyes again. "And what?"

"Is that all?"

He didn't know why he had been expecting his cruel mockery. Experience, perhaps. But looking at his brother's classic bored façade, he recognized how foolish that was.

"I am hardly in a position to mock you. I am certainly not in one to take advantage." The confirmation placated him a bit. He felt some of the tension leave his body. "If you hadn't noticed, I have been relying on you these past few weeks to do what I cannot. And I do not simply get to change back come the dawn." He became thoughtful as Sesshoumaru's words registered. He knew he had been helping him. He guessed he just didn't think about how much. Didn't think he noticed.

"What did you assume I would do?"

"I don't know. Be a dick?" His lopsided smirk in no way meant he was joking. Sesshoumaru smirked back before returning his gaze to the forest.

"I can't attest I will not, but I assure you it will have nothing to do with your humanity." Inuyasha released a short chuckle, and joined him in avoiding eye contact. "You have been... gracious regarding mine. I can hold my tongue for an evening."

The air became considerably lighter after that. Inuyasha pulled his knee up to rest his arm on top of, and let his other leg dangle and swing. He began to pick nervously at his sleeve.

"I guess I'm just sensitive about it. I don't like being weak."

"Believe me, I understand." Sesshoumaru curled his hands into fists, as if trying to prove his point.

"Tetsusaiga won't even transform for me. Not all the way, at least. I'm useless."

Speak of the sword earned Sesshoumaru's attentions, and caused hit thoughts to stray.

"You're doing pretty good though. If it were me, I'd be losing my mind."

"It has been challenging," he agreed, and then surprised his brother with a concession. "But you and your pack have eased my burden substantially."

His eyes widened at the admission. He never thought he would ever hear Sesshoumaru admit he needed his help, let alone thank him for it. He studied his passive features in awe for a second.

"How do you do it?" he finally asked, and earned a curiously cocked eyebrow. "Stay so calm about everything?"

"What is the point in panicking? There is only value in finding solutions."

That's when he realized the ice prick was probably more scared than he let on. He'd just die before he let anyone know it. The idea that he had fears and anxieties just like everybody else was shamefully comforting.

"It matters not how you are tested, but how you fare when tested. If I handle this crisis correctly, I shall come out of it even stronger than I was previously."

"If you come out of it."

He glared down at his brother, who seemed surprised at his own insinuation.

"Sorry," he corrected quickly, cheeks pinkening slightly. "Is that how you got so strong? Always testing yourself?"

"Of course. And not just I. Father was constantly tested, and so are you. I believe you endure quite well."

"You think I'm stronger?" he asked, hating the insecurity in his voice. Sesshoumaru smirked again.

"Every time I see you."

Knowing his brother wasn't one to blow smoke, he let himself enjoy the rare praise. But then, a thought struck him.

"Is that why you're always such a bastard?"

Was it possible that all this time, he was testing him? Making him stronger?

"At times," he confirmed. But elaborated in the art of full disclosure. "Though I am told I may have a bit of a temper."

He hadn't always just been testing his strength when engaging him in battle, so it would be disingenuous to claim that. But there were certainly times when he wanted to explore his full potential, and expand on it.

"Keh. At times," he mocked. "But so do I, though. Dad must have had one hell of a temper."

It just slipped out. He hadn't meant to bring up their father. He knew it was a sore subject. But he couldn't deny that he longed to know more about him. He just never expected Sesshoumaru to indulge him.

"Truer words were never spoken."

He released a breath he didn't know he was keeping, and decided to push his luck.

"He ever aim it at you?"

When his brother turned to him then, with the beginnings of a smile playing at his lips, he thought he actually saw his eyes sparkle in amusement.

"Once or twice."

Inuyasha grinned eagerly.

"You deserve it?"

"I did my best. I would receive it regardless, so I figured I had better earn it."

"Like what?" Sesshoumaru seemed to be considering him for a moment.

There was so much he didn't know about the demon who sired him. Most of what he knew likely came from his own recounts. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to share an anecdote or two.

He was about to reply, but at that very moment, the sun completed its descent.

In seconds, silver hair had turned to black. Claws receded into mere fingernails. And the weight of his aura became drastically lighter.

Sesshoumaru marveled at the change. It was not a painful transformation, but his discomfort was more than clear as he withstood his brother's curiosity, and scrutiny.

He let him have his fill, trying to remind himself that he was human too. That right now, for the first time ever, he and his brother were the same.

Just like he'd always wished for... he should have been more specific.

It didn't stop him from squirming at the awestruck look he received.

Uncomfortable with his silence, and not expecting him to break it, he began to nervously ramble.

"The worst thing about my human night is how useless I feel. Is that how you feel now?"

His voice shook Sesshoumaru from his stupor, and put an end to his inspection. He didn't need to answer.

"I know how you feel about what happened to Rin. Cuz every month, I get worried sick about Kagome." Sesshoumaru remained silent, and let his brother attempt to relate. It wasn't so bad having someone in the same boat. "I worry that some demon's gonna come in and hurt her, when I can't protect her. That's why I don't tell nobody about it. If the wrong guy found out..." The implications hung in the air, raising both of their hackles.

"Now both of us are gonna be weak. I'm so worried that something's gonna happen. It makes me edgy." He realized he was rambling now, and eyed his brother with sympathy. "Just sucks if you feel like that all the time."

He never figured his brother could understand. But tonight, he knew he was the only one in the world who could. It was oddly comforting, but that in itself made him uncomfortable.

He saw the plea in his eyes become more urgent.

"Please help me keep an eye on her tonight. We just gotta keep her safe 'til morning, then I can do it again."

Sesshoumaru surprised his brother by outright scoffing at his request, and he got worried. Would he refuse?

He thought he liked Kagome. He thought he cared about her. He thought-

"Back on the bridge, the miko should not have come for you. She should have trusted your ability to take care of yourself."

Inuyasha straightened. He very much agreed, actually. In fact, he'd begged her not to come. Stupid wench never listens...

"I suggest you do the same. The miko is not weak, by any stretch of the imagination. In fact, I would argue that tonight, she may be the most equipped to keep watch."

It was quite a concession, but he was inclined to agree again.

Kagome was powerful. And without his sword, she was the most capable against any demon who might attack.

Still, he just didn't like putting her in danger like that.

"She is as powerful a human as I have ever encountered. I trust that were a demon to attack, her arrow would keep us well protected." So he saw it too? He wasn't sure he'd ever let himself sink low enough to acknowledge any human as powerful.

"You should have more faith in her. You have seen what becomes of any fool to doubt her abilities. That woman is strong."

Inuyasha smirked. He was right about that. She'd put more than one demon in his place. Both of them included.

"And you should tell her." Inuyasha faltered. The odd suggestion had him looking at his older brother curiously. "Your words carry weight with her. That is a power you must learn to use responsibly."

Buthis assessment embarrassed him, and he instantly averted his eyes.

"Keh, whatta you know?"

"I know I found her in tears after you doubted her hunting prowess."

In his surprise, he forced himself to meet his brother's gaze once more. He made her cry?

"She cares what you think. Keep that in mind."

He never meant to hurt her. Had he?

Slowly, guilt began to course through him, making his blood feel heavy. He supposed he hadn't really been paying her much attention lately. What with the mission, and Sango... he'd kind of dropped the ball.

Kagome was his best friend. Friends can tease each other. But if he hadn't been around much lately, he could see how she could get offended. They were starting to drift apart, and he was letting them.

In fact, the last big talk they'd had was when he told her about Sango.

He'd been negligent. He hadn't secured the foundation, and now his friendship was in danger of crumbling. He was actually grateful to Sesshoumaru for bringing this to his attention.

"I have a suggestion." Once again, his brother's voice tore him from his musings. When he looked at him this time, the intensity in his countenance was so strong it nearly startled him. "Just for tonight, entrust your sword to me."

Inuyasha's eyes instantly darkened, and a scowl crawled across his lips.

"What?" he demanded, his voice dangerous and low.

Sesshoumaru sensed the threatening shift in his aura, and he could understand. But he seemed receptive to reason at the moment. He would simply make him see it his way.

"Allow me to possess it. Perhaps it will transform for me. That way, I can protect your miko in your moment of weakness."

The barest flashings of hurt let themselves be known in Inuyasha's incredulous features, until a humorless laugh escaped his throat. He closed his eyes and smiled to himself, before giving his head a few astonished shakes.

"Keh, you really think I'm stupid, doncha?" He hopped off his rock, and began tucking the sword into his obi. "Maybe I am. I actually thought you meant all that stuff you said."

Sesshoumaru continued to watch on curiously as his brother prepared to leave.

"You still want my sword, you're just resorting to different tactics," he hotly accused. "You pretending to be my buddy? My brother? Getting me to let my guard down then swipe." The Western Lord simply continued to sit in silence, resigned to letting the whelp complete his little tirade.

His suspicion was not unjustified, and really shouldn't have surprised him. But he had to admit, he was slightly taken aback by the accusation. Not that he let it show.

"Well I got news for ya; I may be dumb, but I ain't that dumb. You are never getting your hands on this sword." He placed his hand on the hilt for emphasis. "I'd let a whole army of demons take me down before I'd hand it over to you." He brushed past quickly down the way he came. And though he did not look back as he fled, he made sure to mutter loud enough for him to hear.

"Man, you really are pathetic."

And then he made his way back to camp, leaving his brother alone to process what just occurred.

It was a good thing there seemed to be no demons around, because the way he stomped through the campground was loud enough to wake a bear from hibernation.

His aura was flaring wildly, and Kagome was more than startled to see the human version of her friend take off angrily in the other direction.

"Inuyasha? Where are you going?"

Without a backward glance, he raised his voice and inflected.

"I'm gonna go practice with my sword."

He said it a little louder than he had to, and she wondered what she was missing.

"Are you sure you should go by yourself?" she asked, rising hurriedly to her feet. She didn't like him going off on his own when he was human. Usually, he appreciated her support during this time.

"That's the point. Don't follow me," he commanded. And then, he was gone again.

When Sesshoumaru entered the campsite just a moment later, she turned to him worriedly.

"What did you say to him?"

"The wrong thing, apparently."

It sounded like it was between them. She could respect that. But she was still concerned.

"Is he okay?"

"His inadequacy has seen him become insecure. I suspect it will disappear with his humanity in the morning."

Sesshoumaru took his seat by the fire, and Kagome made her way over to join him. She sat at his side as he attempted to get comfortable on the ground.

"You didn't make fun of him, did you?"

He gave her a look, but deigned to answer as well.

"I am in no position, or have you forgotten?"

She didn't appear to be brimming with confidence in him. He supposed whatever reputation he had within this group, he had earned it.

"You don't believe me," he observed. But her answer surprised him.

"No, I do." The simple admission warmed his chest pleasingly. "He gets like that around this time. And you're right, it will pass. Thanks for trying."

Her growing trust in him was validating. He supposed after saving someone from falling to their death, one has earned such considerations. But he'd saved her life before. Though he would concede that the last instance was considerably more drastic and straight forward.

"Will he return?" He found himself scooting closer to her. The chilly temperature brought on by nightfall had them drawing nearer to the flame, and each other.

"Once he's blown off some steam. If he's not back in a bit I will go hunt him down."

She checked the small watch she had begun to wear on her wrist. Time didn't seem to matter as much in the past, but she liked having some frame of reference occasionally. It kept her strangely grounded, reminding her that the world back home still existed.

"I'll give him twenty minutes."

"That is an impressive clock-watch," he observed. He'd admired it in private, but had yet to comment on it. "Small, and intricate."

"You've seen a watch before?" His comment surprised her. She'd honestly thought they hadn't been invented yet. She certainly never saw anyone in this time wear one.

He boldly took hold of her wrist then, and brought it closer to his eye for better inspection.

"I have seen them in overseas, though not of this quality."

She flushed at the contact. His fingers held her gently, caressing her elbow, and tickling her hand. She went limp in his hold, and let him maneuver her to his liking.

"You've been overseas?" she managed to ask. She was a bit disappointed when he released her, missing the contact immediately.

"Indeed. This One used to travel with his father quite often."

She reclaimed her arm to nervously toy with her timepiece.

He's been around so long. He must have seen so much of the world. She found herself wanting to hear his stories. Maybe one day he would indulge her.

"My mother took me a couple times," she offered, remembering the few vacations they had taken as a family. "But I want to see more."

A stiff breeze rolled through, whipping the flames before them into a brief frenzy. It chilled her skin, and she automatically used her hands to rub some warmth back into her arms.

Without asking, he decided to help her.

He reached his arm around her back, incasing her and gathering her to him more closely. Her breath hitched, and stomach fluttered as he joined in using his hands to help create friction.

He'd been much more attentive lately. It was almost as if he viewed saving her on that bridge as buying her life. Not to own and control, but to care for. Like protecting his investment, after the effort he'd spent. He always did hate waste.

She certainly wasn't going to stop him.

"Did you eat enough?" he asked, noticing the third lizard was no longer near the fire.

She smiled. She could really get used to this attentive side of his.

"Yep, I think I've had all the lizard I can stomach for one evening. There's no food on this mountain."

"The deer must have heard you were coming."

Their position had his face dangerously close to hers. So when she turned to face him, his sly grin was even more startling. But not in a bad way.

She tried to temper her blush, but wasn't confident she had succeeded. Still, she swallowed her nerves and tried to converse normally.

"That was fun," she said, and he had to resist the urge to cock an eyebrow. Apparently her selective memory saw fit to romanticize thier little hunting trip. He, however, easily recalled another near-death experience, a frustratingly elusive doe, and being elbows deep inside a freshly carved up carcass. But he kept his counsel. It really hadn't been all that bad. Her mere presence seemed to have that effect in even the least pleasant of times. "We should hunt together again sometime."

Apparently, she felt the same. He found the notion more than acceptable.

"What do you wish to hunt?" he couldn't help but wonder. His warming hands had slowed their pace, though he had yet to relinquish his hold on her.

She thought about it.

"I don't know. What animals do you like to eat?"

She was a tad worried to hear his answer. Sesshoumaru probably enjoyed hunting challenging game. She didn't want to think of the kind of beast who would give him a run for his money, and what they may taste like.

What did he eat, anyway? She hoped it wasn't gross.

"I have always been partial to boar demon."

Oh. That was not what she was expecting. It seemed pretty innocuous. Except...

"You eat other demons? Isn't that cannibalism?"

His rubbing motions stopped, and now he was cocking his brow at her.

"I was not a boar, the last time I checked."

And then he removed his arms from her completely, and she mourned thier departure. She immediately held herself then, and found it was a poor substitute.

"Yeah I know, but I can't just eat another race of human."

"Why not?" he asked earnestly. She opted to derail this particular line of questioning.

"Have you ever eaten human?" she asked cautiously instead. She should really stop asking questions she wasn't sure she wanted answered.

If he had, would it change her perception of him?

She decided it wouldn't. Because that would have been the old him. He was human now, at least for the time being. And she was extremely eager to give human Sesshoumaru a clean slate.

Luckily, he didn't appear to need it. At least where his diet was concerned.

"From what I understand, your kind is salty, and tough."

She bit her cheek. Those were a few adjectives that described the Western Lord aptly as well.

But at the moment, so was 'sweet.' So she let it slide.

"Eww. Well I guess I'm lucky I don't taste good."

"I'm afraid that is incorrect."

Very sweet, she decided. And while you're at it, throw cheeky in there as well.

She pulled her lip briefly between her teeth, and noticed how his eyes followed the motion. She felt herself being pulled in.

"What do I taste like?"

His eyes became as hot as the flesh between her thighs, and just as intense. The reminder that he knew how she tasted had her losing herself to memory. To the way he himself tasted.

She could taste him now, and wanted to again. And she hoped, with her less than subtle question, he would know it, and make it so.

But though his eyes became hooded, he did not close the distance. Did not take advantage of an invitation that was so wide open, that his resistance had to be intentional.

"Have you not feasted upon a demon?" he asked instead.

It sobered her a bit, and she found herself withdrawing slightly. An act of self-preservation, or else to straighten her thoughts.

He was too easy to get lost in. She had to remember to take breathers, lest she lose herself completely. It wouldn't take much, and she was shaken at her slackening grip on control where he was concerned.

"No. I thought it might, I don't know, make me sick or something."

But his eyes remained half-lidded. His voice, still kind.

"You would survive."

And smooth as the silk he had shed to keep his identity under wraps.

"Even with my miko energy?"

Something about the contrast seemed like it may disagree. It sounded like a good way to get poisoned.

"If the beast is dead, there will be no affect."

"What does boar demon taste like?" she asked. She couldn't ignore the irony of what was once a proud demon encouraging her to make a meal of his kind. He seemed to appreciate it too, as amusement sparkled in his eye enough to overthrow the heated look that had taken reign a moment prior.

"Like boar, but spicier."

His simple answer made her smile.

"I like spicy."

"Then you must try it," he decreed. "Once we return to your village, I shall take you to hunt a boar youkai, and we will eat it."

It sounded like a date. Not at all what she would have chosen, but he somehow made tracking and killing demons to feast on sound romantic.

She wondered if he was aware he just made plans with her for after their mission was through. Perhaps he was conceding that he may be human for longer than he thought. If so, he didn't seem too broken up about it.

"Do you cook it?" she wondered. She hoped.

"I assume that now I will have to." He straightened up a bit, bending his knees enough to wrap his arms around. She copied him.

"Yeah, humans can't do raw."

She thought she saw fleeting traces of insecurity, but she could have been imagining it. She took it as a sign that his previous meals had not required much preparation.

"What do you prefer to eat?" he asked, curious of her proclivities.

"It's a little pricey, but I enjoy a steak on special occasions."

"What is that?"

She was reminded of Inuyasha's introduction to steak at her mother's house, and the pig he'd made of himself after tasting it. Somehow, she doubted Sesshoumaru would pick it up with his bare hands like he did.

"Muscle meat from a cow. The tenderer, the better."

"Hn," he began thoughtfully, and the look on his face had her worried. When he got ideas, it was normally trouble. "I know where to procure a cow. Not the most challenging hunt, but-"

"Oh no, leave Momo alone," she ordered, catching on instantly to what he had planned. "And go easy on Toto."

He hid his displeasure at how casually she referred to the old codger. But he still chose to allay her silly fretting.

"Fear not. So long as I am human, he shall be safe."

He seemed to have a lot of caveats while in this form. But she thought she understood the reason for this particular act of kindness on his part.

"Don't want to expose him to the new you?"

His look said it all, and she couldn't help but laugh.

"Yeah, he's a real shit talker."

"Indeed," he agreed much less jovially. "How he has managed to survive to that age escapes me. He is lucky he is useful."

And that was very likely it right there, she reckoned.

She steered their conversation back into friendlier territory.

"When we get back to the well, I will pick up some filets from the store, and I'll cook us some steaks. You'll love it."

The thought of her cooking for him appeased something deep within that he didn't understand. But his pleasure receded when he considered that she often cooked for all of her packmates.

"You prepare them for your pack?" he ventured, but she shook her head.

"No, not steaks. Too expensive. But I could grab a couple for just the two of us."

This satisfied him a bit, but only until the idea of her spending her earnings on him took hold.

She obviously didn't have much, and he certainly was not in need of her charity. Not in a monetary sense.

"I will send you with money," he insisted, a slight frown upon his lips.

She shook her head again.

"No, my treat. It's not a big deal." He was inclined to disagree, but she cut him off before he could. "But you can bring the wine. I'm not allowed to buy it there." He couldn't help but remember the last time they had enjoyed wine together. It was the last time he had tasted her as well. He wondered when he would again. When she would permit it.

"Then let's see, something for dessert..." she continued, as she planned the future meal he had apparently locked himself into. As her excitement mounted, his did as well. Though he didn't give a damn about the food.

"Do you like sweet things?" she asked, before she got ahead of herself.

He smiled, and realized that with each passing day, she was becoming more endeared to him. And in turn, he was becoming less resistant to that fact. To her.

"I am beginning to."

"Great! I'll make a cheesecake, and everyone can have some."

Her excitement was infectious. He didn't care about the food. But anything that could rile her up like this was something he could get behind.

"Not just for us?" he asked, increasingly amused at her enthusiasm.

"No, I'd put on weight if I ate like that. But we can steal a couple pieces, and sneak away somewhere."

"Where?" The thought of taking away with her to some private location was certainly an appealing one. He was very interested to hear what she had in mind.

"I don't know. Is there anywhere you like to go?"

She realized she didn't have any places that were just hers. She was a very social person, and liked to share herself with those she loved.

But she had a feeling the reticent demon had a lot of places to go when he wanted to be alone. Maybe he would share them with her.

"I know of a cave I can make quite comfortable. It would be private. You would be safe."

The previous heat returned to his eyes, burning her with the suggestion in them.

But she wasn't feeling as receptive as before. As much as she wanted him, she still wasn't ready for him. She wanted more moments like these; getting to know each other's minds, before getting to know each other's bodies.

And when he looked at her like that, it put her plans in jeopardy.

"What if we can't get to the river?" she blurted. The sudden change of topic did not appear to startle him. He retained his warm, gentle cadence.

"We will get there. There is no need to fret."

She looked down sadly at where her hands were folded before her.

"I'm just afraid that we're going to be stuck in the mountains forever."

"That is a foolish thing to fear," he scoffed, dismissing her notions outright.

It was almost annoying, how sure of himself he was.

"How can you be so confident all the time? Don't you ever get scared?"

"Yes," he easily replied. She certainly hadn't expected him to. And really, it didn't sound right.

"When was the last time you were afraid? Was it when they took Rin?"

He looked down tenderly into her sympathetic features. Her concern for him was clear. It was a sentiment he returned.

"The bridge."

She looked shaken, then momentary fear set in anew. She didn't need to say it.

"Yeah. Me too." They hadn't discussed the traumatizing incident since that day. Since right after it had happened. It probably wasn't healthy to keep all that bottled up. But they were in survival mode. They needed to get out of these effing mountains, then they could analyze the repression and address the PTSD. At least, she would.

She'd swallowed it down, pushed it out because she would be too much a mess to go on if she didn't. It was something he seemed to recognize after briefly chastising her for her choices that day.

He said his piece and let her be. And, from the looks of things, washed his hands of the whole terrifying ordeal.

But despite outward appearances, it seemed he really had been scared too. He was just better at hiding it.

Maybe when this was all over, they could talk about it.

"It's comforting to know that even you fear for your life once in a while."

He continued to look down at her, but now something akin to pity bore into her shining blue eyes.

So she really hadn't been aware. Still wasn't.

He didn't know if that made it better.

"Not mine," he told her. Those blue depths widened in realization, and he found he needed to look away. But he continued to enlighten her.

"Every true warrior must accept his impending death at some point and make peace with that. Otherwise, he would live his entire existence in constant fear."

She supposed it made sense. If you spend your life throwing yourself into battles, taking on anyone worth conquering, that you had to be prepared to die.

She just never thought he actually considered that he could.

Death just seemed like it would be an unacceptable inevitability to him. But he wasn't a fool.

He knew he could go at any time. It just kind of saddened her that he was okay with that.

She wasn't.

"It was the prospect of your demise which chilled me to my bones. I hadn't considered the world without you in it, and I do not wish to."

He continued to shock her with his increasingly revealing confession.

She knew they were getting on better these days, to put it mildly. And it's not like she thought he'd be happy if she died or anything. But she had no idea it would affect him so strongly.

Humans died, that's just what they did. He knew this, and she was certain he'd accepted that.

So why did he seem like he was ignoring her mortality?

With the lifestyle she'd chosen, it was possible she'd go before her time. Not that she was planning to.

But she guessed, like him, she knew she had to be ready to go.

"When you run blindly into danger, I will follow every time. Consider that the next time you wish to foolishly put your life at risk, it is not only your life you are risking."

But she was more like him than she thought.

For as prepared as she was to sacrifice herself for the greater good, she would not sacrifice those she cared about.

It was that care which drove her to run out onto that bridge. And it almost killed all three of them.

If Inuyasha had been more careful, she wouldn't have run. Sesshoumaru wouldn't have.

So she had to just hope he would exercise better caution in the future. And she would need to do the same.

"I'm sorry. I'll be more careful."

He released a silent breath he'd been unaware he was keeping. His muscles relaxed perceptibly.

"That is all I ask. Foolish woman."

And by kami he hoped she would. Next time, they might not be so lucky.

He almost chuckled to himself at associating their current predicament with 'luck.'

But he had been lucky. She was okay, and that seemed to be enough for him.

What was it with this woman, that made everyone she met jump through fiery hoops just to see her unscathed?

Differences in age, sex, even race did not deter those who made her acquaintance from tying her well-being to their own.

Even he was not immune.

He'd thought his brother a fool protecting her. For constantly rushing to her aid.

He thought it was his dirty blood that weakened him so, but even full-fledged demons – like that mangy wolf prince – seemed willing to lay down their lives if the circumstance called for it.

The thought was unsettling.

How many other males did she have vying for her attention? How many others did he not know about?

Perhaps that was how she so easily resisted his advances.

Perhaps she is not as wanting of attention as she seemed.

He was suddenly reminded of a discovery he had made during their travels together, and the troubling notions it had wrought.

"I thought your name was Higurashi."

She looked at him, torn from her regretful introspection to regard him curiously. He'd never used her last name before. Then again, he rarely used her first name either.

"It is."

"Then why does your notebook say Nakamoto?"

She instantly flushed; eyes flew wide and cheeks heated.

"You were sleeping, and I required your bottled water-"

Her immediate answering glare showed she was not appeased by his explanation.

"- and I did not wish to wake you. I went into you pack and came upon a notebook, and on the front it said Kagome Nakamoto. And there was a large heart drawn around the lettering. Why?"

Embarrassment fueled her anger, and her annoyance at his boundaries - or lack thereof. That was the second time he had gone through her bag. That she knew about.

"Because it was an old notebook," she gritted through her teeth.

"Your name has changed?" He remained cool, though likely aware of her festering rage. It was poorly concealed, after all. And he was getting to know her fairly well.

She considered his unending curiosity, and genuine interest in her strangeness kept him as passive and receptive as he was.

"No, it was just a joke." She was trying to remain civil without giving away too much. She hoped he would sense her displeasure with him and leave it at that.

He blinked.

"I don't get it."

But, of course, nothing was ever easy with him. She nearly forgot how he liked to push her.

"What you don't get is that you need to respect my privacy and not go through my things."

Then, he did something that shocked her. He apologized.

"I'm sorry."

And what's more, he looked like he meant it.

He seemed sad that he'd violated her trust. Or perhaps it was that she felt she needed to keep things from him in the first place.

"You have so many secrets." He disarmed her with his accuracy, and how it seemed to affect him. "I simply wished to know a few." She did have her secrets, and she felt she was entitled to them. But he seemed to take her reticence as a sign that she didn't trust him.

It appeared to irk him even more than she had thought. But he'd never made a secret of his desire for her to be honest with him.

It made her feel guilty, considering he always was with her.

"Would you like to know one of my secrets?"

At least she thought he was.

And she was quite eager to know, but feared she didn't deserve to, all things considered.

Still, she nodded.

"I do not have any."

She gave him a flat look, because despite his downtrodden expression, she was certain a part of him was amused.

"Everyone has secrets."

"Some more than most." She didn't appreciate his assessment, though he wasn't exactly wrong. "If you ever care to ask, I will tell you."

"Tell me what?"

"I do not know," he insisted. If she didn't know any better, she would swear he was growing exasperated. "Ask something."

And now she knew why. He was implying that he had nothing to hide, and anything he was keeping form her had only to do with her not asking.

To be fair, he had always projected himself as the standoffish type. His whole aura seemed to discourage any sort of approach.

But okay. Since he offered; what did she wish to know?

What about Lord Sesshoumaru required further explanation?

She could only think of one thing.

"Why do you hate hanyou so much? Why do you hate Inuyasha?"

Inwardly, he sighed. He supposed he should have expected the question.

But then, perhaps he subconsciously wanted a reason to tell her. He realized, he would have her understand.

"All I ever desired was my father's regard," he began simply. Best to start at the beginning. "I worked tirelessly for it my entire life, and I earned it. I earned his pride and respect and acknowledgement, but at the cost of nearly everything else."

Kagome sat silently, more than a little surprised he would share this with her. She was even afraid to move, like if he remembered she was there, he might stop talking.

"He, and my house, and the West came first, last and only. Distractions and deviations were not tolerated, but punished." He met her eyes then, and held her gaze. "Harshly."

She got the picture. Though she liked to think of Inuyasha's dad as a good guy, she figured you don't get to be the Lord of the West by being a permissive authoritarian. You don't raise a demon like Sesshoumaru with ice cream and participation trophies.

But with how his sons had turned out, he had to have done some things right.

"Then, one day, he forsakes all he has made me work for. All he had demanded I lay my life, my desires, my reputation down for and pledge to - my lands and my house and my family." His voice steeled a fraction. "My mother. And he gives it to the enemy."

Swiftly, he seemed to catch himself, and look at her apologetically. "What he taught me was the enemy. And the result of that torrid union - a half breed who has yet to be born - had already received everything I had worked so ruthlessly for... and nothing was asked of him."

His tone took on a bitter edge she hadn't heard from him in some time. She was almost sorry she brought it up.

"Nothing was pledged or sacrificed or earned. He received all those things so easily, so instantly. Not just Tetsusaiga, but everything; his protection, his adoration, his acceptance. He was a top priority. It just was not... fair."

To her, it seemed like he was testing this all out for the first time. Like he was working through all these issues in this very moment, as if he hadn't bothered to acknowledge them before. It was possible he hadn't. Perhaps he needed her as an outlet. Maybe she made it okay to think about.

She barely had time to suppress her shock before he finally turned to her and addressed her startled features. "What had I lacked? Why had he not seen those things in me, his dutiful son? I simply wished to understand." His imploring, inquisitive eyes darkened in less than a blink, and his aura around with it. "And when I could not, I wanted to make it fair."

He seemed lost behind his eyes. He wasn't seeing her at the moment, as he appeared to be reliving things he may have preferred left forgotten.

She didn't mean to upset him; it seemed like lately he'd really been trying. But she supposed it was a loaded question. As much as she hated to bring it up, she desperately longed to help him mend the rift that kept the brothers apart. Maybe she couldn't, but she could at least try to ease his burden.

"I'm sure he did the same things for you." At her voice, the darkness receded, and he allowed her to continue. "I'm sure he loved you too, right from the start." He couldn't help it; he scoffed. This wasn't about love. In his opinion, she was far too obsessed with the notion. This was about respect. This was about justice.

"He just saw your potential," she continued nonetheless. "He knew you were going to be great, and he was right. He wanted to drive you to excel." She paused a moment, and appeared to consider something. "And it might have backfired a bit. You might have gone a little overboard. But to his credit, you are a wildly impressive man."

He already knew that. And he was no fool; he was aware his father's harsh training had no small role in the greatness he had achieved.

But was it right to then hand everything to his brother? How was the hanyou to achieve his own greatness, buy easily receiving what he had rightly earned? It was a slap in the face to both of them.

"I'm sure if he lived, he would have seen Inuyasha's potential too, and he would have pushed him just as hard. He did what he could with the short time he had left. He trusted you enough to leave him to you. He wanted you to help him excel, and I think you have."

He slowly returned his focus to the miko. She knew?

Had she been aware of the tests he'd put his brother through, hoping to aid him in unlocking his strengths?

She was far more perceptive than he'd realized.

"He also knew he needed the help. He wasn't a full-fledged demon. He would not have the luxuries you were given; the access and the abilities. The acceptance. He had a handicap to work with. I think your father was trying to make it fair. And I'm sure if you ask Inuyasha, he would say it's not fair that you got all that time with him, not fair that you have all you have. I think you both envy each other a little. But the grass is always greener, you know?"

He seemed to accept what she was saying. His continued silence seemed to suggest he was at least considering it. She didn't know if these were things he had considered before. But it was very possible his new humanity allowed him to see things from a different angle. With less blind spots, perhaps.

"You think your father favored Inuyasha. He thinks he favored you. I think your both right."

He couldn't help but laugh. Just a short burst to himself. She was so idealistic that it bordered on simple. But then, he tended to overthink things.

"You've never even met him." Her face dropped. She thought he was about to disregard her entire assessment. "How do you know so much, Kagome? Is it a future thing?"

He'd already admitted she was more perceptive than he'd given her credit for. Perhaps it was as simple as she made it out to be. Perhaps he was too involved to see things objectively.

"Perhaps in part." She relaxed again when she saw he wasn't dismissing her. "I have 500 years of evolution in many things on my side, including family psychology."

He didn't know how he always seemed to forget that. The fact that she was from so far in the future should demand he give her opinion more credence. She must know a good deal more than she appears.

And here she was, using her vast knowledge of things to come to help him make sense of his inconsequential family drama. She really was fascinating.

"I also have a little brother, and a father who passed away." His eyes softened instantly. He didn't know she'd lost her father. Actually, he'd never even considered that she might have a family. There was so much he didn't know about her, and he badly wanted to reduce that list.

"I know what it's like to be jealous. He thought I was the favorite because I was older," she continued on, still talking about her own brother. But Sesshoumaru was starting to lose focus. "I was daddy's little princess. I thought it was Souta, because he was his only son. But he didn't love either of us any more than the other. He loved us both, just differently".

He immediately recognized the smile she wore then. The glaze in her eyes spoke of memories her mind was playing. Of times long ago, and days forgotten, and perhaps chances missed forever.

She was likely romanticizing things a bit; she had a selective memory, after all.

He wondered if she would think of him like that, after he was gone. He also wondered how he would remember her. What would he think of? What would he miss? What would he change?

What would he regret?

Unaware of his reverie, she continued to recount the moments she was recalling.

"One time, he told us that-"

But unfortunately, Sesshoumaru was done listening.

Had she been paying attention, she would have noticed his face rapidly close in on hers. She could have anticipated his lips, claiming her own in kiss that she was far too quick in returning.

Her surprise nearly knocked her off balance for only a moment, but at the highly desired contact she leaned into him. Her hand was instantly hooked around his neck; fingers weaving through short strands and the nape and pulling him harder against her mouth.

He was shocked, but pleased at her eagerness when he felt the satin tip of her tongue tracing the seam of his lips, demanding entry. He immediately complied, and his own hand rose to gently cradle her jaw; holding each other in place to aid in proper exploration and discourage retreat.

Perhaps he should have done this sooner. She seemed desirous, even needy of the contact. But she was a frustrating contradiction; constantly pulling him nearer with one hand and pushing him away with the other. She wanted his attention, but not too much. Were all human women this way? He supposed he was going to need to learn how to navigate this confusing balance. But he would.

The way her tongue played with his, and her fingers curled into his cheaply made clothing made it more than worth his trouble. He would fulfil her needs in whatever capacity she desired. He could wait for her.

The way she sighed into him, and readily accepted his touch told him it likely would not be long.

And as frustrating as it was, he respected her resistance. He admired her restraint. And it was going to be fun to chip away at it.

Several long minutes passed as they explored each other's mouths. They tested the waters, and discovered preferences, and developed a rhythm. When they finally decided to part, both hands rested comfortably on the warm planes of his chest, and her hair was tantalizingly disheveled from the long fingers that had weaved their way between the strands.

Her dreamy, half-lidded gaze inspired an appreciative smile on his lips that matched her own.

"Moutain lizard," he told her. Though her brow crinkled in confusion, they still had their hands on each other.

"What?"

"You asked what you taste like. This time, it is mountain lizard."

She blushed, but her smile grew.

"So do you," she accused, but was happy she wasn't the only one.

"Hn. Is that bad?"

"I think I'm developing a taste for it." He couldn't resist; he went in for another quick peck. No tongues this time, and she couldn't say she wasn't disappointed.

This was all so new. He'd never kissed a female without it immediately leading to sex. It was different territory to withhold, but it was not unenjoyable. It permitted an air of closeness and contentment, and he found an easy comfort in simply appreciating someone; basking in her nearness.

Finally, they each relinquished their hold, and settled back into their seats. Though this time, she retained the contact by leaning audaciously into his side. He was more than happy to support her.

Happiness radiated off of her, and he wondered if he should ask his next question. He didn't want to dampen her mood, but he was curious, and she was being open at the moment.

"How did he die?" he finally asked carefully. Her features softened, and he was pleased he hadn't upset her. Her wistful expression told him she was willing to share.

"He rescued some people from a house fire. They made it out, but he didn't."

She recalled the day her father had gone to work at the fire station, and never returned. They told her he was a hero, but at the time she was resentful that she had to lose him so some other family could live. She'd since changed her tune.

"Hn. My father as well."

She smiled. She knew the terrible demon couldn't have been all bad.

It appeared they had more in common than they realized.

"Was my secret revealed to your satisfaction? Was I thorough enough for your liking?"

She boldly reached over to grab his hand, and she was pleased when he let her.

"Yes. thank you for sharing that with me."

Fingers laced together, and both of their attention drew down to admire the sight.

"So will you now tell me who this Nakamoto is? Or need I track him down to get my answers?"

Though he was smiling, she had a feeling he wasn't joking. Luckily, the boy was safe.

"Well, you'd have to wait about 500 years to find him."

His smile took on a sinister air and she blanched.

"I will do so."

Damn. She forgot he could do that.

"No!" she begged, startled. "Leave him alone!"

His mood immediately soured at her apparent protectiveness of this unfamiliar man. She noticed, and hurried to placate him.

"Yuto Nakamoto is a famous singer in my era."

"You are friendly with this man?" he ventured, and she was amused by his insecurity.

"No, we've never met. He has no idea who I am, but he's very popular, and talented, and really attractive." Sesshoumaru frowned as she praised this unknown male. "And when girls in my era get a crush on a handsome, popular singer, or public figure, sometimes they write their names on their notebook as if they were married." His obvious confusion at the human practice forced her to elaborate, and she found herself growing embarrassed. "It's like, a sign of respect, or a silly fantasy. And totally immature. I wrote that when I was much younger. I don't do things like that anymore."

That notebook was from when she was still in middle school. Seeing as she rarely went to class, she had little need for new supplies.

"Because you no longer fancy him?" he hoped.

"Right. And it's a childish thing girls grow out of; sort of like a phase when you come of age."

"When does this phase end?" he wondered, considering he may need to prepare himself for when Rin gets a little older. She was not too far off from coming of age herself.

There was so much he didn't know about human females. Perhaps the miko would be willing to assist him with such things, when the time came...

"Usually around the time girls start having real relationships. Then they do that sort of thing with their boyfriend's name. Set more realistic goals."

"But you were in no such relationship," he correctly observed. "So what ended your Nakamoto phase?"

"Well, it was about the time I started coming to the past. Suddenly, Yuto just wasn't so hot anymore."

"Because you preferred my brother?" It actually took effort for him to keep his voice nice and even. He was not some jealous pup, but the reminder of her affections for the whelp was distasteful.

"In part," she conceded. "But there was more than one handsome youkai who put Yuto to shame."

Who? The wolf? He must remember to drop in on the wolf prince-"

"More than one dog demon." She appeared to be reading his thoughts, and he cursed himself for wearing his emotions so openly. He needed to get back to controlling himself better.

But the way she was smiling at him quickly ended his lament.

"And now whom do you prefer?" he coaxed. Her shy smile said it all, and encouraged his own.

"I should hope that's not a secret."

He wanted to kiss her again. But he opted for raising her hand to his lips, and kissing it gently on the back. When he lowered their entwined appendages again between them, he brought his other hand over to sandwich hers in his.

Even as a human, his hands were much larger than hers. But still, it managed to fit him so perfectly. She seemed to notice it too. Both of them admired the sight of them cradled together, and he used his extra hand to play with her fingers; prodding and experimenting with each didget that remained laced loosely between his.

"Do you have a last name, Sesshoumaru?"

She finally asked, still entranced with his curious explorations. He was as well, but the smile he offered her seemed tinged with regret.

"No. You would be unable to alter your name as such with me." He wondered if that disappointed her. Though he supposed it didn't really matter. The two of them would never be married. Still, he found himself eager to make up for his shortcoming, and appease her somehow. "However, you would be given a title. It would simply add on to the name you already have. Enhance it, perhaps."

"Make it better?" she asked.

"Make it longer, for certain. Lend it some prestige."

She stretched her fingers out as he continued to peruse them with his own, and he finally lifted his gaze back to hers.

"Though, Shikon Miko Kagome Higurashi seems to be getting on just fine without it."

"Yeah I don't even need the Shikon Miko part." He couldn't help but grin at her assessment.

"I know."

She was so different from the bitches he had associated with in the past. Not one of them did not have ambitions to attach themselves to his name, and the title it would afford them. Not to mention the lifestyle and the power.

This woman had her own greatness to sustain her. But even so, she seemed more than willing to live out her days sleeping in the woods and eating found woodland creatures. The bitches in court would never entertain such a notion.

His chest began to tighten with anxiety at the prospect of living out his days with a demoness like that. One day he would be forced to, but he would delay that unfortunate inevitability as long as he could manage.

"You don't need all that other stuff either," she informed him. She seemed to pick up on his sudden stress. "You don't even need a last name. Everyone knows who Sesshoumaru is. I like that just fine."

He didn't respond; just smiled to himself and looked back down at their hands. She followed suit, and they sat quietly like that a moment longer.

"If I was going to write your name in my book, that's all I would put. Kagome plus Sesshoumaru, with a cute little heart around it."

"I do not even get top billing?" he asked playfully.

"You can when you write it." Her gracious allowance earned his concession.

"No. I rather like it your way."

She continued to daze dreamily at their joined hands, until she suddenly registered the watch on her wrist once more. He was reluctant to release her when she pulled away from him. But he did, and she immediately turned her arm and pulled the timepiece closer to her eyes.

It seemed Inuyasha's twenty minutes was up.

"He's been gone a while. I better make sure he is okay."

She quickly stood, and brushed the dirt off of her clothes.

"I will come with you." He began to follow suit, but her hand on his shoulder kept him in place.

"Nah, let me go. There's a 50% chance he's still steaming. You have that effect on him."

He frowned at her.

"I do not think you should go alone."

Ever since the bridge, he had been even more reluctant to let her out of his sights. Their traveling situation rarely allowed it anyhow, but he was growing increasingly worried a demon would happen upon them.

"You really don't think I can handle myself at all, do you?"

It was a dirty trick. She knew he had faith in her abilities, and often encouraged her to as well. If he wanted to put his money where his mouth was, he would have to let her go.

But he didn't like it.

"Take your bow, please. And make haste. If you dally, I shall come for you."

She smiled at her victory, and he watched with concern as she made her way into the dark mountain alone.

It had been ten minutes since she had left the warmth of his embrace, and Kagome's cheeks were still aflame. Just the memory of his lips on hers, the texture of his tongue sliding softly against her own was more than enough to keep her heated in all the right places.

She smiled to herself as she tasted him in yet another kiss whose unique flavor would remind her of that moment for the rest of her days. Every time was new; a different place, a different day and a different feeling associated with the passion he displayed for her.

That was the only constant. That it was she and him was the only common thread of each of their encounters. But when she remembered the taste of mountain lizard and campfire, she would remember a protective embrace beneath the new moon, and a light touch gently guiding her jaw.

Just like how her mother's favorite sauce recipe would forever be associated with long, pepper-stained fingers and eager hips forcing her to writhe against a counter dug low in her back.

Like how several fine sakes being dragged across her throat would reunite in her mouth as she was pinned beneath him on a bed in a stranger's mansion.

And how his blood, and healing ointment were smashed against her lips and tongue while sturdy hips trapped her pleasingly into a low, surprisingly sturdy table.

Each time was new, and exciting. Original, and spontaneous. And good. So good. Thrills continued to shoot through her, sparking to life at the wonder, and anticipation of when the next time would be, and where, and how he would taste then.

She wondered if he tasted the difference in her too. If each of their intimate moments were as arresting and unmistakable as he was to her.

He was right. She shouldn't have come alone. She was far too flustered, and much too distracted to find her way in the deep, dark night on this strange, lonely mountain. She could have walked right by Inuyasha and not known it at the moment. Instinct alone was guiding her as she continued to push branches, and bushes aside while rooting blindly for her friend.

Where could he be? Would he have come this far? She knew he wanted space, but on his human night too much space was dangerous. Even when they knew where they were.

She brushed aside the fear that something happened to him. This mountain was large; this plateau sweeping. And cluttered.

The large, dense trees were starting to cluster so tightly above that the light from the stars was not able to shine through, and she worried she might not be able to find her way back.

It was a fine night to get lost. She felt shame in that moment for how often she forces herself to rely on the demonic abilities of her youkai companions.

How surreal, that for this strange moment in time, they were just three regular humans meandering in the North. And she, out of all of them, was the only one with power.

It was an uncomfortable realization, and a heavy responsibility.

Then his voice rang clear across the night sky. It was him; she'd know him anywhere. And she followed the sound, letting him guide her to him. At least he wasn't far.

She saw the red of his clothes thrashing on the ground, and she quickly rushed over. Was it a demon? Did somebody find him? What had they done?

He was wailing, whining and even crying on the dirt floor. She pushed her fear aside and ran to him, just as she had done mindlessly on that bridge. As she got closer, she saw it.

A large animal trap bit violently into his leg, and blood was streaming down his skin, and soaking his clothing. His hakama were in tatters.

She hurried over to free him, but he didn't even see her. And he wouldn't. For before she could reach him, the forest floor gave way, and she fell several feet below ground into a deep, dark hole.

A/N: uh-oh, I did a cliffy... but I've been sparing you for a while, I think you were due LOL

thanks so much for the awesome response! it motivated me to get this one out quickly =)

I'm really glad people enjoyed the bridge scene last chapter! I'm always worried my action scenes are going to be boring lol. But I'm really excited for literally everything I'm going to do going forward. After this point, things are going to start getting crazy and fun XD

PS I just googled japanese kpop star to get the one I used. I never heard of him before that, so dont necessarily take it as an endorsement.