Kagome was only slightly uncomfortable as she sat next to Sesshomaru. It was partly due to her body aches and partly due to the fact that it was Sesshomaru she was sitting next to. She had not entirely gotten over the idea of him remembering all of their encounters and it more than unnerved her. Then there was her body giving out in front of him; then the whole him running away right afterwards thing. She had worked very hard to become valuable to him in someway and not just as another human who would die before him. A very large part of her worried that during her time asleep something had changed in his mindset and she had lost that place she had worked overtime for.

Kagome glanced at her meal as she remembered one of their first encounters eating together. While it had been a rather disgusting experience at least she knew where she stood with him. In fact a part of her almost missed the idea of him being so utterly repressed that he flicked his own food onto hers just for the reaction. After meeting Touga she understood far more about the demon Lord than he most likely ever wanted someone to know. She understood the need for control, the expectations of his life and managing such the incredibly different personality of his father's at a young age.

Kagome could picture fairly well what Sesshomaru's childhood must have been like with rules, and customs and politics. Touga was a passionate demon who put everything into what he deemed attention worthy at that time. Sesshomaru was not loud or reactive like Inuyasha so he most likely garnered minimal attention unless he was performing at a superior level than everyone around him. The term killing perfection had an entirely different meaning now that she could see him differently.

Kagome doubted he would ever talk about such things though; it would go against his nature. Sesshomaru would most likely just expect to have whomever he mated just figure it out and respond appropriately. He had always been a reserve individual and this dinner just confirmed it.

At that thought her mind drifted back to the dinner she was currently at. To make matters worse it was a silent dinner with silent demons. Transitioning from her thoughts pertaining to Sesshomaru she gave a partial glance to Malik. No part of her expected him to talk, Kagome believed he only ate for the necessity of nutrients and most likely did not believe in the value of food beyond that, but another questioned why he was here. Why were any of them here? This particular group was known for their insults that were usually only tempered by Shiho, who was still missing along with Uza. So it raised the question again as to what was going on.

Her eyes lazily swept across the room as she further assessed the situation.

Sesshomaru ate gracefully, Malik remained stoic and Inuyasha glared at anything that moved. Her eyes flicked around the room again and she almost wished for Touga's stupid jokes to help lighten the atmosphere. He had not made an appearance since she had woken up which struck her as odd but there was no one to voice her concerns to.

Instead of moping, as she was finding herself doing instead, Kagome looked down at her lap and the adorable distraction that she did manage to have. While the children slept after such an eventful playdate Shippo had opted her lap as his temporary bed. Running her fingers through his hair he gave another smile in his sleep and her heart fluttered. She loved making Shippo happy; very few things gave her the same peace as when she was able to brighten his day with untold amounts of affection. Sesshomaru had been right though in training him. She had mothered him for to long and forgotten that despite being young he was a demon and had probably more years behind him than she did.

She was interrupted within her own thoughts by the gruff voice of Malik as he made an unnecessary comment, "You will spoil him."

Kagome instinctively rolled her eyes as the comment 'kill joy' raced across her mind. Her counter comment was much more appropriate but just as direct, "Nonsense, Uncle Ken used to do this whenever I would visit him at his Tokyo office and I am not spoiled," she turned towards Inuyasha whose mouth had stupidly decided to open. With a glare she countered again with a "spoiled and temperamental are different."

The boy wisely kept his mouth shut.

Kagome turned back to her conversation with the cat demon though was surprised to see a look of contemplation across his face. She had expected backlash at the idea of open affection but was met with nothing but stale air. After a few more seconds she glanced back again as though each figure was unsure how to proceed. How the most arrogant demons she had ever met were this uncomfortable was a mystery to her. She had basically defied the unwritten rules of demon kind which stated every demon for themselves and power is everything. Deciding to forgo manners Kagome pointed out the obvious, "What is wrong with everyone?"

Sesshomaru's eyes glanced to her wrist, not her eyes, then back at his plate. Malik's own eyes hardened and he gave a disinterred but hardened look at his food which clearly appetized him in no way. Inuyasha pushed his own food away and scoffed, "It's just strange having you awake."

Kagome's eyes focused on the individual giving her attention. They both knew his argument made no sense and was incredibly weak since as far as Kagome knew the other two demons had minimal investment in her. They were either avoiding some situation or had come to some conclusions about her that they were unsure how to broach. Neither sounded like the individual's in front of her so it must be rather large. Glancing again at the occupants Kagome settled on the most logical conclusion, "So Malik figured out I am from the future and told Sesshomaru."

Inuyasha's mouth dropped open and said other demons no longer made eye contact with their dead animals. Inuyasha stood abruptly and nearly tripped over his own feet, "You cannot just go saying that Kag's, what if someone heard you?"

Kagome ruffled Shippo's fur around his ears and smiled, "But I'm right aren't I? Malik figured it out."

Inuyasha's palm hit his head at her complete disregard of her own timeline. He was about to should something along the lines of 'and what if he hadn't and like a moron you just said it out loud' but was cut off.

Malik took the proactive response and cut in before Inuyasha started another battle within the barely standing castle walls, "It seems you are more perceptive than I originally believed, did you learn this from your Uncle as well?"

Kagome, excited that actual conversation was happening and not silence with chewing, answered back quickly, "Yes and no, my Momma has always been better at it than him. I do not think there is anything she doesn't know."

Malik nodded carefully as if storing away the information, "You had many oddities in your stories and I did not like them. Both Inuyasha and yourself should learn to have less conversations in the open as well, it left much for me to piece together."

Inuyasha huffed and mumbled something about Kagome's inability to keep anything a secret. Kagome rolled her own eyes and stared at Malik, "I cannot tell you anything about the future or what I know, I had a very long lecture from my grandfather about timelines and what-not so that's out."

Accepting that as true, as he was wondering about his future self's role in creating this timeline, Malik nodded. "You are correct in that, I suppose we must see how things unfold."

Much to her dismay Sesshomaru did not join the conversation and continued to look away from everyone present. She bit her lip in frustration as she realized something else was bothering the demon lord next to her. She ignored her frustration at his stubbornness and channeled her insight into all she had learned from Touga about his eldest son. At this time she was incredibly grateful for having met the father for the son's actions were now more understandable. He was processing something in his mind and dared not share that with anyone else for fear of it being used against him before he had finished dissecting it. Drawing him in she turned towards Sesshomaru in hopes that this understanding would help her, "No questions?"

Sesshomaru glanced back at her, and much to her own surprise maintained eye contact. "Many, but none of which can be answered."

Her own frustration rose again at the dismissal but she stomached it. He was correct that she most likely should avoid any of the questions that he may have. Unsure of what else to try Kagome turned back towards her food and rubbed her son's head. He nuzzled her again and her heart lifted slightly. How was it her own pain decreased when she was around her makeshift family? Did Touga's hold somehow weaken?

"Kagome," said the familiar smooth voice.

She stopped immediately as it registered that Sesshomaru was addressing her willingly. Her attention now drawn in, for Sesshomaru was not one to initiate a conversation; she once again locked eyes with the demon. He glanced at the kit again and looked at her, "You are very protective of him, if not a bit to smothering, most of your behaviors towards him are admirable."

She blinked, and then blinked again. Kagome looked back down at the small child in her lap then back at Sesshomaru. The fact that he gave her a compliment for absolutely no reason was shocking to her and she was unsure how to process it, "Thank you."

Sesshomaru looked back at his own food and towards the nearby window. The window was covered by a cloth as the repairs still needed to be done and the damage done in the other room had impacted the structure of this one, but she knew he could see some of what was behind it. Weathered cloth had nothing on demon vision. "He was very concerned for you while you slept."

She paused again as he continued to speak to her.

"I am just stating that the kit was troubled and that you parent him adequately."

It was in that moment that she realized Sesshomaru was attempting to initiate a conversation, and he was absolutely horrible at it. A small smile graced her lips as Kagome recognized the awkward feeling he was most likely experiencing. Why he had decided to do so was unclear but she was not about to let this moment pass her by. With an energizing inhale Kagome turned towards Shippo and squeezed him close. "I know I am not his actual mother but he means so much to me. He gave me something else to focus on when all I wanted to do was give up, I suppose that is why I have a hard time letting him be his actual age. I hate that I caused him any doubt or worry, he is so young. He should be protected from things like that and he has already lost so much. I am thankful that everyone here was able to be there for him while I couldn't."

She turned back towards the table, "I know we haven't always gotten along but I cannot tell you what it means to me that my family was taken care of."

Malik nodded briefly, "The slayer was distraught as well and the monk was irrational but both were tolerable. The kit was helpful in coming to some conclusions about how best to help you, even through his grief."

Sesshomaru cut in once again, "How is the pain?"

She shivered briefly as she recalled the things she had been suppressing, the feelings she had been wanting to avoid. "It is about the same but sometimes it decreases randomly. Like now it is less painful but I do not know why."

Malik nodded slightly before looking at both brothers discretely, "There are many mysteries as to the origin of the spiritual powers of humans. Have you ever heard of the original legends?'

She shook her head, "There are plenty of religions and beliefs that I have heard in school. Some are that they are a gift from the gods to protect humans from evil, others say they do not exist and they are old fairy tales; some say it is a spiritual imbalance related to the afterlife. No one knows so everyone guesses. Personally I like the one where angels came down from heaven to help their previous comrades. It sounds less violent and now that I know so many demons I cannot imagine being at war with them."

Malik paused as he had never heard this term before, "Angels?"

Kagome nodded, "Yes, they are supposed to be these pure beings who were originally kin to demons. Demons became selfish and turned into all the evil legends of my time. In my day the most common belief with this is that demons fell from grace and now torment humans to distract them from their misery. It is said that angels and demons fought for some time over humanity but they originally were family and worked for the same supreme being. My grandfather once told me that in the end angels dedicated themselves to saving their kin which in the end destroyed them because demons cannot be trusted. I think at the time he was trying to convince me to stay away from Inuyasha though."

Inuyasha made a face and crossed his arms, "That old man is crazy and stuck more than one powerless piece of paper on me trying to banish me from the property. I wouldn't trust anything he has to say Kag's."

Kagome giggled as she thought of her senile old grandfather, "Be nice Inuyasha, you showed up with claws and fuzzy ears while essentially kidnapping me back to this era. It wasn't the best first impression."

Inuyasha growled, "Oh hell no, you do not get to look like a victim here. You ran away!"

She rolled her eyes at his limited argument as she suddenly felt a painful cough come from out of nowhere. Still she responded to him, "From a giant razor sharp hair monster that was literally trying to kill me after I was thrown down a magical time traveling well and attacked by a ridiculous number of people, a number which you are included in by the way."

Inuyasha's hand slammed down on the table, "Sesshomaru is in that list too and I don't see you fighting with him."

Kagome glared as her throat closed up more, "Really, you are going into annoying little brother mode right now? What are you going to do next tell me that he pulled your hair? Besides he attacked after that, nor has he met my grandfather."

Inuyasha arms were nearly flailing, "Poison acid was literally thrown at your face Kag's!"

If Kagome would have been able to place her hand on her head and smack it, without adding to her growing sense of dizziness she would have. Glancing at Inuyasha again she mumbled a very clear, "But I hadn't met him yet, which negates your argument about my first week in this era. I swear Sesshomaru is the only dog in your family with any sense of reason."

Then she broke into a coughing fit.

Inuyasha fell back into his familiar crouching stance and rocked back and forth, "A giant hole through my stomach? You are really calling him mature and reasonable when he punched a fist sized hole through my stomach?"

Kagome took a breath as the argument continued. It was almost as if he was trying to instigate something with her at this point. "Well of course that wasn't mature, the two of you are demons. I just hit my brother upside the head but you two go all out," she acknowledged while still maintaining her argument.

Inuyasha triumphantly crossed his arms and glared at Sesshomaru, "See, I am more mature."

Kagome literally exhaled enough air out of her lungs from frustration to inflate an entire balloon, "Said the boy who kicked his way through a shed, with said hole in his stomach, because he was upset he lost the fight," she countered quickly.

"I did not lose," he tried, "It was an unfair fight and he snuck up on me!"

The headache grew and the dizzy spell that took over her vision was rapidly growing. She did not think it was the argument that was causing it all so it internally she contributed it to Touga. Was it because Inuyashsa was trying to bad mouth Sesshomaru? Or at least get her to? "Is this even relevant now that he is your alpha? I mean how does this work?" she tried once she saw that Inuyasha may still have some things to work through. They had over two hundred years of bad blood between them and no amount of prompting from her was going to magically fix that. She watched as Inuyasha's mouth shut and was pleasantly surprised to see him turn towards Sesshomaru then back towards her. "Yes Inuyasha, Sesshomaru told me."

Moving back towards his backside he rolled off of his feet and onto the ground, "Ask him, I wasn't raised with this stuff."

Kagome turned her attention towards the older brother and was shocked to see him already staring at her as she rubbed her now parched and swollen throat. He did not blink but continued to watch her as if scrutinizing something she could not possibly know about. After a few seconds of silence he blinked and turned back towards Inuyasha, "Essentially it means he will occasionally listen and I will most likely not kill him."

Inuyasha laughed, "Works for me."

This time Kagome did bring her hand up to her face and smacked her forehead gently. Shippo snuggled closer but did not move much for which she was grateful for. Glancing back at the two a small smile broke out despite her frustration at their lack of communication. She didn't know what was the thing that made them work together while she was dead to the world but whatever it was she was thankful for it. With the way things were going she did not have much longer and seeing this she could understand a bit more of what pushed Touga to do what he did. In the grand scheme of things she was human and her life was worth very little. This moment was worth any price she may have had to endure, or may experience in the future.

She glanced to her side and saw Malik watching the pair intently as well. It seems even he was not immune to the brotherly exchange happening in front of him. Despite how much she wished to remain sitting there and witnessing these events a larger part knew she needed to go back to sleep. Her body was failing rather spectacularly and staying awake took work, speaking took more. As if sensing her shift in mood Shippo opened his eyes and glanced around briefly, finally they made eye contact with his mother. Ruffling his hair once again she looked down, "Can you walk me to my room? I think a nap would be helpful."

The small fox rubbed his eyes and nodded. He slowly got off her lap and continued to walk with her to the nearby room. Once they were out of earshot Malik turned towards the two, "Did you sense him?"

Sesshomaru shook his head indicating no. During their time eating Touga had not made himself appear but she continued to experience symptoms. He looked back towards the door and made the comment none of them wanted to say, "She is fading quickly."

Inuyasha leaned back, "She couldn't even keep an argument up for long, I've never known for that to happen."

Malik cut them both off, "But she did supply us with important information about these angels."

Inuyasha scoffed, "It is some fairy tale, her grandfather is crazy anyways. Half of his stories are seriously messed up semi truths and the others are just wrong."

Malik glared and Inuyasha immediately felt himself stop talking. Within a few more seconds Malik resumed, "She became responsive when the child was in danger, her energy peaked when she was helping the kit, and throughout her time here she has befriended far more demons than humans. Perhaps fulfilling her original purpose assists her in some way."

The three remained sitting as they contemplated how they would never know the truth. There was no conceivable way for them to learn what they needed in the time frame allotted. The bat demons had informed them that Naraku was moving closer and had developed a more than sizable team to weaken them before he arrived. No one among the living could give them the answers they needed and if Kagome somehow made it to the last battle Naraku would surely kill her first.

Sesshomaru glanced at the table and growled, "I may have sensed him in the past but was unaware of what I was experiencing."

Inuyasha looked up, "But it doesn't matter if we cannot talk to him."

The claws clenched and then unclenched the table. After a few seconds of contemplation Sesshomaru retorted with a clear answer, "I can travel to the underworld."

Malik was immediately on high alert when he heard that statement. Sesshomaru's mother had come across a rather powerful stone in her youth after helping a wayward spirit. Her and Touga had been walking during their courting and each received one for their assistance. It had been a pebble from a stream in the underworld and she had cherished it for years. Never had she discussed where she hid it or whether she had used it. To hear of Sesshomaru bringing it up now after so many years was astonishing. "You have it?"

The hands clenched further, "Yes."

Inuyasha glanced between the two, "What do you have?"

Sesshomaru glanced at his brother, "A portal to the underworld, or at least something similar. The underworld is extremely different from this plane and should remain separate. Anything from that world will find itself constantly attempting to return unless they know how to fight it, as Kikyo and our Father have done. If I were to use it I could follow it there and ask for assistance of nearby spirits."

Malik scoffed, "Yet what use would it be with no definite way to return here. The portals are temperamental at best. You are a demon Sesshomaru, the underworld would be more than happy to keep you there and there is no known way out of that realm."

"Father's grave will be my marker, I will find a way to return," said Sesshomaru with a dismissal.

Inuysaha quickly stood in front of Sesshomaru, "Is this the same stone that our Father put in my eye?"

Seshomaru nodded as he avoided the questions Inuyasha was undoubtedly asking, "Yes, both he and my mother had one gifted to them."

Inuyasha moved in front of him again as he registered more, "You knew that the sword was in the underworld, but you never used the stone to track it down. Instead you searched for years for another way to get there."

Sesshomaru attempted to step around his brother as Inuyasha had apparently learned to become more direct with his questions, "Move Inuyasha, we do not have time for this. Kagome will not be much longer in this world without assistance. Do you wish to be the one to kill her?"

Inuyasha stood wide eyed as he challenged his brother, "Why? You cared only for the sword back then and now you are going to use it in hopes that it may help Kagome? That someone, anyone, might be there to tell you about a legendary race that no one even knows about anymore? With no definite way to return?"

"I have returned from the underworld before," challenged Sesshomaru.

Inuyasha crossed his arms, "Are you doing this for her? Because you think it will impress her? Or just to prove me wrong?"

Sesshomaru was faster than even Malik anticipated as Inuyasha's throat was immediately in a vice grip and his body hovering above the ground. The demon Lord squeezed tighter and dragged the body closer to him, though for Inuyasha's credit he did not struggle, "She will never know of this."

Seconds later the half-demon was dropped to the ground only slightly winded. Inuyasha shook his head as he registered the limited force placed into that hold. He was well aware of Sesshomaru's ability to snap his neck if enough force was put into it. Standing up he glanced at Malik. The older demon stood there as he watched the door Sesshomaru exited out of. Inuyasha figured he would fill in the blanks to avoid questions further on, "Yeah, I'm pretty sure he is infatuated with Kagome but is too much of an ass to say it out loud."

Malik continued to stare at the door without a word but with a watchful eye. Inuyasha, feeling the discomfort surrounding the room, attempted to leave but stopped when Malik whispered, "In all my years I have never once seen him do something selflessly for someone else. Have you?"

Inuyasha looked back at the door as he tried to categorize their interactions. The majority of them had been dismissive or violent. Eventually he settled on the story surrounding Rin, "He resurrected the kid with Tensega."

"Partially out of fondness but also to test its ability. Never before had the sword reacted to him because he had never wanted to save another." Malik blinked slowly as he remembered Sesshomaru's previous line of questioning, "Perhaps happiness is not as distant as we all believe, at least with a celestial around."

Kagome sat in her room as she attempted to sleep. She had been incredibly tired when she entered the room but no matter how hard she tried sleep evaded her. Here eyelids hurt and her body ached like none other, but still she remained awake. Turning slightly she faced the window, or what was left of it. Sesshomaru had opted to leave her in the same room which was unclear to her but still preferable to where she was before.

Her eyes gave a slow blink as she tried to think of ways to permit her body sleep. Once they re-opened she was surprised to see Touga standing in front of her. Lifting her eyes briefly, but unable to move her body due to her energy level, she tried to wish him away. She could not handle a request at this moment, everything in her just wanted it to end and have some semblance of peace. As her eyes closed once again she felt the delicate touch of claws brushing through her hair. Giving herself a moment of reprieve Kagome opened her eyes again and saw the man's concerned face.

He continued though, without words he continued to stand there protectively while soothing what he could of her aches. Despite being a horrible father while alive he knew the importance of a strong presence when feeling weak. So he stayed as her heart beat slowed slightly but never enough for immediate concern, what was left of his demonic energy in this world ensure that it did not stop beating no matter how much it longed for rest. Before her body gave out though Kagome heard what could only be described as a whisper asking for forgiveness. It was similar to Touga's voice but her eyelids remained heavy. By the time she managed to open them again she was surprised to see Sesshomaru sitting in front of her at the mat near her bed.

Looking around she saw that it was darker out and she had indeed fallen asleep. Acknowledging the disorienting state of seeing the father and the son so close to one another in her mind Kagome pressed herself up slightly. She glanced at Sesshomaru who nodded to where the usual patch of orange fur would lay. "I felt a familiar presence and investigated. After doing so I relieved the kit of his post to eat and train with the soldiers. He has some energy to work through."

He did not comment on her continued babying of the kit, though it was clear in his verbal undertones. She ignored it.

Kagome ran her hand over the spot, the warmth from it gone. Pushing herself up with a larger amount of effort than she had hoped Kagome glanced back at the demon lord, "Familiar presence? Who would be in my room?"

Sesshomaru leaned back slightly and nearly refused to make eye contact with her, "I thought I felt the energy of my father."

Both noticed the immediate hitch in her breath at the mention of Touga. Sesshomaru did not say anything as they individually assessed the other for any conceivable information that may be of use. Eventually it was Kagome who broke the silence. Perhaps it was their earlier conversation in Rin's bedroom or maybe it was the trust building between them but the tension was not what would be expected. She did not brush aside the comment, nor did she state the obviousness of said man being dead, instead she commented on something much less noticeable than those clear things, "That must have been difficult for you."

Sesshomaru turned his head back towards the previously sleeping woman but did not comment immediately. After a few more seconds Sesshomaru nodded, "He has taken much from me, some on accident and some on purpose. I would be lying to say I did not have a reaction."

For reasons unknown to her Kagome felt the muscle aches lesson and she was able to draw her legs up to her body in an almost protective manner. "I don't know what I would do if I saw my father again. He was always so loving but he also died when I was very young."

Sesshomaru immediately responded, "And that is the difference Kagome, your father loved you."

Her heart clenched as she heard the pain he was trying to ignore. Every part of her could see the small boy trying to prove himself in every way in a world that disapproved of children. He must have spent every moment locking away his hopes for happiness and striving to be the best. After all, recognition was better than nothing. With a defeated sigh Kagome attempted to correct him, "Sesshomaru, I promise you that your father loves you more than anything."

Sesshomaru nearly cut her off again but she wouldn't let him, "Just trust me on this, he would do anything to see you happy. Call it a dying priestess's intuition."

A smirk graced Sesshomaru's features and Kagome couldn't help but wonder what she had said to give that reaction. A few seconds later he shook his head and a small sliver of hair fell in front of his face. When he turned his head back up again his look was less harsh but still conveyed disbelief, "How is it you still have faith in others?"

Kagome felt her smile grow and knew that some part of what she had said reached him, "It always seems like the better option to me. All of my closest friends have tried to kill me at one point and I cannot imagine the life I would have if they were not in my life; if I had decided to give up on them."

Sesshomaru moved the sliver of hair from his eyes and Kagome silently wished that he hadn't. The break in his perfect facade had made him seem so much more approachable and she missed the small imperfection in his appearance. Slowly she reached out as if not in control of her own body and slipped a few strands of his hair between her fingers, "I remember the first time I saw you, I thought you were a total jerk."

She glanced back up at him as she dropped his hair, "Now imagine if I had kept that opinion of you. How boring would your life be now without me here?"

Sesshomaru pushed himself back briefly again as he realized their close proximity as well as her words. Luckily Kagome recognized the frightened animal in front of her and quickly moved to change the topic once she realized his tendency to bolt anytime emotions, even as simple as friendship, were involved. To her surprise Sesshomaru initiated a different conversation, "Tell me Kagome, in your dying priestess wisdom what else should I know about my father?"

Pushing herself away this time, though more out of response to what Touga might say than Sesshomaru, she tried to manage a way around this. No malice was detected from Sesshomaru but she was not foolish enough to think to share that the spirit had crossed over from the underworld. She had originally tried for many days and spiritual shocks were never pleasant. Still Sesshomaru's curiosity drew her in. Was this something she could help? Was this something she could repair before she left this world? She did not know, but everything in her screamed for her to try, "He hates chicken, to many bones."

It was a fraction of a second but Kagome saw a light in his eyes as if in response triggered a memory, "Continue."

Feeling a new sense of courage Kagome pressed on even though she felt like he was just indulging her. After all in the real world where dead spirits didn't follow her around she wouldn't have the slightest clue about his father. "Contrary to what I am sure everyone thought taking over villages was not his favorite past time, it was actually star gazing and listening to the shakuhachi. I think he also loves children and finds them ridiculously amusing to watch. It might be because he is such a child himself of course."

The amusement on Sesshomaru's features flickered to life even more as he commented on her assessment, "Interesting seeing as those are the exact opposite of what he conveyed to the world. My father relished in a fight and could not stand children."

Kagome scoffed and moved closer, "Or maybe he was so focused on being a war lord that he forgot what the end goal of life is."

"And what is that Kagome?"

She could feel the slight blush that ran through her body at the continued use of her name but she ignored it. Instead she answered his questions, "It is to be happy and I think your father finally realized when he died that everything he built didn't make him happy, in fact it cost him happiness because he pushed aside all of the things that would have built that happiness."

They continued to share stories about said man. Sesshomaru's were brief and he only slightly touched on how the man had affected him but she took what she could, relishing in the idea of him sharing. It was a shame that it was just as she was dying. Kagome continued to pull the most random stories she could regarding Touga in hopes of lightening the mood, even if she knew he did not believe what she was sharing. Perhaps one day he would look for something other than the villain.

Once they came towards a natural ending Sesshomaru turned back towards the open balcony, "I prefer your version of him, though it changes little now."

Kagome hugged her knees again while taking in all Sesshomaru was disclosing to her. For a man like him to share his thoughts was more than an honor, it was a gift. He was so proud, so steady and so utterly broken. She knew this was not easy for him and while Kagome did not understand what lead to him to share every part of her was thankful for it. "Sesshomaru, how come you are really here?"

The demon lord closed his eyes as he realized the question had finally been asked. Part of him had hoped she wouldn't but a much larger part of him knew her to be much to perceptive for that. "I wanted to see what it would be like."

Kagome blinked slowly as she tried to place his words, "What do you mean, what it would be like?"

Sesshomaru stood silently as he came to a conclusion in his mind, "Go to sleep Kagome, I imagine you are tired and Naraku's forces grow. Both Shiho and Uza have been gone from the castle for too long and I must find them. It will be better in the morning once everything is settled."

Before she could ask again he was gone and the worried pit in her stomach only seemed to grow.

It was well past midnight as the three men gathered in the courtyard. Inuyasha could feel the agitation arise as they stood standing in front of one another. Initially he had voiced his concerns to both of them about what Sesshomaru was attempting but stopped when they heard the news.

Neither Uza nor Shiho had been sighted in several days. The last either had been seen was before the fight for the rite to mate Sesshomaru. Considering the war they were in this was pressing information and confirmed that Naraku was about to make his move. The obvious conclusion was that he had kidnapped the two but Malik was warry in his assessment of that assumption. While Naraku was powerful the idea of him overpowering two warlords without the signs of a battle indicated something underfoot. Either there was previously a traitor in the premises or there was a traitor still currently present. The sooner they solved this mess the better.

So Sesshomaru stood outside in his gardens as he looked over Inuyasha's head to the ripped balcony. He had left her in the room once he considered completing this task. They would need open space and none were better than his mother's gardens, he had supposed that his last view of this world should be a reminder of what he was searching for.

Answers.

Besides, Kagome's room was in direct view of this spot.

Again, he was searching for answers and his quest would lead him back here no matter the situation. He would make it.

Sesshomaru glanced at the two by his side. Silently he reached for Jaken's staff as he simultaneously grabbed an inconspicuous pebble from his pocket. He threw it on the ground before conveying each of them their duties were he not to return before the portal closed. Then he used the staff to open the gate to the underworld.

Malik bore the criteria of who to search for. They needed someone knowledgeable of celestials and demons, aware of the change and how to circumvent or continue with the change safely. Sesshomaru knew that finding someone with that information was limited, especially with an unknown time limit. Briefly he stepped towards the portal in order to feel the pull and see what his journey to his ancestor's home lands would be like. Unlike the first trip he felt an immediate pull in the opposite direction from his sword, the one his father had given him. The intentions were clear to him instantly. Before when he had travelled to the underworld it had not been active because it did not deem him worthy, now that it was active the sword had an opinion on his little trip. It did not wish to go to those lands and those lands did not want the sword there either.

Not wanting anything potentially hindering him he dropped the sword on the ground at his brother's feet.

Once the portal was open Sesshomaru turned to Inuyasha, "Should I not return you will inherit everything. Undoubtedly you will need to fight in order to re-establish the dog demon rule. I will say this once Inuyasha, if it is not something you want let the lands go. They are not worth your life."

Inuyasha was nearly blind sided at the concept of inheriting but even more so at the idea of Sesshomaru giving him permission to give up the lands. Inuyasha's first response was not having a half-blooded demon ruling but he stopped that thought immediately. Had that been what Sesshomaru did not want he would have made Malik the immediate heir for the title. Sesshomaru was truly giving him a way out should Inuyasha not want the responsibilities that came with court.

Instead of arguing the point Inuyasha nodded, "Just punch the old man for me."

Sesshomaru felt the smirk rise as Inuyasha voiced the understanding of the plan. Malik's eyes widened and glared seconds before the portal fully opened, "You will not seek out your father Sesshomaru! He is most likely not even there but here at her side under our radar."

The wind had picked up and Sesshomaru glanced inside the portal. He ignored Malik's words and tried to focus on the pull of family, of pack. His sire was a powerful demon and with their previous bond Sesshomaru knew that with time he would be found. While Sesshomaru could search the lands for someone to tell him what he wanted both he and Inuyasha had independently recognized that Touga would be the best source of information.

Malik's voice resonated behind him, "Do not waste time looking for him Sesshomaru, find someone else who is close by and do not get distracted!"

Then Sesshomaru jumped. He used every muscle in his legs, every twitch to push him forward as he felt the air around him shift. It became more resistant and thick in his lungs. The brightness blinded him for a few moments before he opened them to adjust. Near immediately he felt his body shift and the weight on himself become nearly unbearable. Dropping to the ground in an instant he took a deep breath of air in while smelling sulfur and bones.

The overwhelming smell of heat, nearly smoldering bringing lungs type of heat, quickly followed.

Recognizing the smell and the feeling within himself from when visiting his father's grave Sesshomaru oriented himself quickly. The land was a mix of bones, warmth, shrubs and decay. The majority of it was a wasteland and he could feel the lesser spirits aura around him within moments. To think this was their original home land and now it was in shambles.

Sesshomaru took a step forward as he shifted his nose, smelling around him slightly. The scents were different and the breeze came from no direction in particular but he continued. As he walked a few demons had attempted to gain his attention and test his fighting abilities but were thwarted off without a pause. They were weak and mindless, not at all what he was looking for. He passed additional graves of demons whose bodies had been turned into what could only be described as makeshift huts but paid them no attention. The scent was feint but the urge to move in this direction was not.

Malik was right, there was undoubtedly others who could give him what he needed and with less at stake. Powerful demons had roamed the worlds for millennia and perhaps an original would know the truth, but he did not want to speak to an original.

This was a family matter.

And while it may actually destroy him to be in the same vicinity of such a man Sesshomaru knew no one else would be as invested to speak with him, let alone have the appropriate knowledge. Besides, he had made Inuyasha a silent promise to hit the old man accordingly.

Sesshomaru eventually made it around a bend before he was ambushed. With the disorienting scents and the weight of his body it took him more than a few seconds to register the blood thirsty demons before him. Dried blood covered their mouth and they were emaciated, as if starving, though the blood indicated differently. Within moments the three demons had pounced and Sesshomaru first pulled one off of his back, the teeth nearly digging into his shoulder. While doing so another went for his leg and a claw nicked him. Drawing forth his whip he slashed at the third as another that thought to attack him from the back attempted to jump on him while his brothers all but sacrificed themselves.

Sesshomaru's boot smashed through the head of another as he glanced at the lone survivor, "Touga of the West, where is he?"

The demon scampered to him again and attempted to latch onto Sesshomaru's leg with his teeth. Sesshomaru caught him mid air and growled. Fangs bared and eyes glowing the demon squealed before scratching at Sesshomaru arm. Still he shared nothing and the fury grew. Sesshomaru could feel his inner beast rise at the challenge, the lack of submission from someone far less superior than him. The creature should know his betters, if Sesshomaruw anted he could rule these lands and nothing could stop him! Sesshomaru's inner beast howled and it was only when he realized the creature had stopped squirming when he noticed acid had dissolved half of the small demonic form.

Though his eyes remained red clarity came to Sesshomaru. This place had triggered such a response as if he was not in control of himself. He shook his head as he registered what must have happened here. The battle, the bloodlust, it permeated the very air and it had thousands of years to settle. Normally such an intense aura would fade over time which made him wonder what it had been like before. The sheer power and battle aura would have overpowered anything in its wake leaving mindless killing creatures. Still thousands of years later his demon reacted to it and Sesshomaru could only acknowledge everything his ancestors had done.

Lifting his gaze to a nearby hill he continued to follow his instincts but far more weary than before. These smaller demons had clearly ben driven mad by the residual blood lust and were no longer what they once were. He would not fall prey to that as well.

A few moments later Sesshomaru rounded the bend and entered a field though nothing but dead weeds were in sight. Much further in front of him stood to be what looked to be a run down hut, though the mostly human object felt just as broken and shattered as everything else around him. Glancing behind him he watched as the giant graveyard of bones he had just walked through shift as if almost melting but shook his eyes after realizing how long he had been staring. The hut was where he needed to go.

Stepping up to it with no outward look of concern he pushed the mat aside. Inside sat an older man with graying hair, perhaps in his early fifties. With a quick glance Sesshomaru assessed the surrounding area as well as the living conditions one had in such a place. His cupboards were bare and no furniture was in his house, just a pot of stew that seemed to have nothing but water and perhaps a leek in it. Sesshomaru glanced again for the familiar figure of his father but saw no such person. Instead he walked towards the old man until his feet reached said man's knees. "I seek a demon that looks like me, where is he?"

The man looked up and raised an eyebrow, "Touga is out, though will return shortly if I had to venture a guess. I presume to check on your human female."

Sesshomaru felt his instinct flare again but recognized the effects of these lands before reacting. Demons were called to battle and much blood had been spilt here. "He travels from here?"

The man shook his head, "No idea how he does it but he is very protective of the girl and keeps many of the other spirits away from her. Even from the afterlife she attracts trouble, though I suppose it is in her nature."

Sesshomaru glanced again at the old man and tried to place his face. His father had clearly taken up residence in this hut and befriended this man with the lose language being presented. Sesshomaru proceeded further and checked to make sure it was not some demonic disguise but sensed no energy. "Do not fret boy, I am human. I was one of the first celestials to be awakened but did not survive my turning. Touga and I have spoken at length and though I disagreed with him it was clear his determination knows no bounds."

Sesshomaru glanced around, "I need to speak with him,"

The man laughed, "To the point, lets nothing show and rigid as a statue, you must be the older one."

Sesshomaru growled as he reached to silence the old man with a shove. If he was celestial he was stronger than a human and could stand a bit of force. Before Sesshomaru arm could reach out fully it was gripped in a harsh hold by the older man. Sesshomaru felt the pressure and finally met the gaze of the person with the physical strength and reflexes to steady even a small attack. "Be careful young one, your hime will need someone around to protect her if she is to survive and it would not help your cause to die here."

Sesshomaru wrenched his hand back as soon as the force was let lose. Now that his thoughts had been peaked Sesshomaru asked his questions, "And how do I save her?"

The older man turned back towards the fire as he stood over the stew, "By being worthy. In the olden days demons would fight for the chance to guard a celestial and bond with them as their protectors. Only a protector can protect them from the malice of the worlds and only a celestial can truly protect a demon from the malice in said demons heart."

Sesshomaru growled, "This is hardly helpful, nothing can be gained from that statement. Is there a fight or tournament? A witch's demonic spell to control or declare a victor?"

The man looked at the hut and sighed, "Look around boy, we are surrounded by the after effects of greed and chaos. There is little to no light left in this universe and most of those here have lost themselves to those dark desires. You think this is done by choice? Light has left this world and baser instincts took over resulting in war and bloodshed. Did you think that the same thing would result in peace? She must find her purpose in that world and she must find someone to trust with it. She cannot take on the burden she bears on her own and it will overwhelm her."

Sesshomaru growled again, "You speak in riddles!"

The old man shook his head, "No riddles, just truth."

Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed but he kept himself from the basic instinct to pace. He was above such things and even with his beast at full awareness he would not permit this place mastery over him, "What happened in this world?"

The man's shoulders sagged as he registered the question. Sesshomaru did not interrupt as he watched for any forms of deceit or withholding of information. After a few more seconds the man made eye contact and sighed again, "Celestials were dying out, the species were too few and many children resulted in demonic offspring. Out of fear of something so pure leaving the demons began fighting and hoarding what was left of the race. They were treated horribly by most when they tried to leave their confinement and a war broke out. Everyone fought, well, everyone. Celestials were hurt and fought demons, demons were greedy and fought everyone. Eventually this world could not stand the destruction and both sides left. Demons passed on to merge their essence with animals and wildlife and the surviving celestials did so with humans in a new world."

Sesshomaru nodded as he pieced together what he already knew. It seemed as if there was far more to demonic history than even he knew. "And before the war, what did things look like?"

The man closed his eyes, "Celestials were always rare, it takes more than power to hold onto the trust of the universe. But they had protectors to keep them safe from the trials they faced."

Sesshomaru's eyes went into slits, "Trust of the universe?"

The man winced as he moved one of his knees to the side as it seemed to pinch a nerve. "You think the plants and water do not have knowledge of their role? Some small awareness and urge to complete their life cycle? You have lived long enough to question everything my boy, and an inquisitive mind on top of it. The universe works collectively to keep itself running but is extremely limited and with a minimal conscious stream of thought. Celestials are designed to keep it on the correct path and you are meant to protect anything that would get in a celestials way."

Sesshomaru scoffed, "You cannot expect me to believe that a shrub has awareness such as I do."

The man shook his head, "Not consciously no, but collectively they can have one single thought. Tell me Sesshomaru has she ever manipulated something she should not, something that should be outside of her control. A stream, a gust of wind or even a forest itself? She is connected to worlds and it is her destiny to protect and nurture them."

Sesshomaru was about to counter when something caught his senses. It was a familiar presence and within half a second he was reacting. Despite the lag time from the weight of this new world his fist was cuffed and another followed shortly behind it. Within about three seconds Sesshomaru felt bone crunching beneath him and a pile of dust cascading away from him. Instantly he was on his feet and charging towards the figure. They were fast though and despite looking as if fighting a shadow Sesshomaru lunged with every fiber he had inside of him. Muscles straining in a way they had not since he was a child. Claws blocked his attack and he swiped with his feet, jumping soundlessly as he provided a nearly back breaking upward knee kick. By doing so he had opened himself to an attack and had taken a slash across his face. No matter, he did not care if it would ever heal at this point.

In front of him stood a tall silver haired figure and a stance similar to his own. Still Sesshomaru shifted his feet as he prepared for another attack. "Sire."

The man huffed, "Son."

Sesshomaru's beast took personal insult to that term as it registered that Touga truly believed himself to be Sesshomaru's father, not just a bloodline. A growl actually escaped his lips as he lunged again but this time Touga was ready. He dodged to the left and utilized his own speed to move away from the hut he considered his home. No further blood was spilt as each demon pushed themselves further past their normal limits. It was not until Touga caught one of Sesshomaru's well direct kicks and shoved him back into a crumbling skull that Sesshomaru paused briefly to stand.

What made him continue to pause was his father before him. The man was panting and at the same time smiling. A few seconds after this pause the man's smile widened. "You have grown."

Sesshomaru brushed the residual bone from his body and made eye contact angrily, "Do not speak to me."

Touga placed his hands up in the air and took one step back, "I know you hate me my boy, but I would not change what I have done if only for this moment to see you."

Sesshomaru's fangs elongated, "You are more selfish than I remember."

Touga's eyes dropped but he remained in a stance that could easily turn combative again, even with his hands up in their air slightly. The man did not argue the point but gave a brief nod of recognition, "Yes, I suppose I am."

Sesshomaru moved one step forward as he assessed the man he once knew. He remembered the trials he faced and the ignorance his father often had to the suffering of others. After a few seconds he angrily stated, "You would have her dead? And come to this barren world to live with you?"

Touga's eyes narrowed before settling themselves to their previous gaze, "I would have her live, by your hand and bound by honor. You can help her Sesshomaru."

But he did not care at that point, he did not care what Touga had to say. He did not care that his beast was taking over as his bloodlust and rage mixed. Sesshomaru did not care that thousands of years of animosity in the land was being soak into his system and calling for nothing other than death. What he did care about was seeing this man's head dislodged from his body. The rage swelled and reacted near happily to his internal cries. Within a few short breaths Sesshomaru had transformed into his beast form lording over the land in front of him. Many of the bones were his own size and briefly he registered the power that originally protected these lands. Before Touga had the chance to move Sesshomaru had launched himself forward and tackled the small humanoid form. Placing his paw on the demon Sesshomaru's mouth lowered to Touga exposed face. The acidic spit fell around them and easily caused further damage to the ground.

Touga did not struggle though, he just laid there with his body confined by the sheer strength of the paw. Instead the older demon closed his eyes and let out a painful sigh. After a few seconds he stated a small, "I see you have found someone to protect my son."

Sesshomaru howled and put as much force into his paw as possible. The ground nearly caved in on itself and he could feel the slight crunching of bones that was his father. Still the man did not flair his energy or attempt to shift himself. Perhaps his now deceased form could not take the change since technically Touga's bones laid somewhere in these lands, or perhaps Sesshomaru had truly bested his father but Touga did nothing. He just opened his eyes again and the harsh stare of his sire greeted him, "That is it Sesshomaru, kill me. Prove to her that you are nothing more than a beast. Just like the rest of our race."

Sesshomaru pushed again as he heard another snap and watched as acid burned his father's skin. The gasp of pain from said man was welcomed but did not relieve the inner turmoil from Sesshomaru's own mind. The suffering gave him no satisfaction; it gave him nothing but more anger as he watched his father die. With another howl Sesshomaru recoiled in on himself from frustration. Making a snap second decision Sesshomaru felt himself transition back to the more humanoid state and was panting from both exertion and ire. His bones creaked and his aura withdrew itself until nothing other than his feet was pinning his father's neck to the ground. Still the man did not move. "You mock me?" he growled in a raspy voice.

Touga's hardened eyes glared at the world around them, "This is it Sesshomaru. This is what our world entails without light. I did not want this for you or Inuyasha so I thought to take the chance for something different. I accept my fate as your enemy if it means I might succeed in that goal."

Sesshomaru lifted his foot in near disgust as he watched the man in front of him. Sesshomaru noted that while multiple bones would be broken and healing Touga gave no further indication of pain. It seemed even in death Touga was a warlord above all else even with his own son. "You were never supposed to be my enemy; you were supposed to be a father."

Touga stood slowly while maintaining eye contact, "You became a better man without me in your life, I now see the destruction I caused and the ripple effect of my insatiability. I thought to make my mistakes better."

Sesshomaru took a step back as he watched the sky change suddenly from a deep red to an orange rust, the skeleton birds once again flying above them, "Leave her and tell me how to fix this."

Touga took a step forward but Sesshomaru's killing intent was clear. His purpose for coming to this world has been selfless and purely to protect someone he cared about. He had become distracted by the bloodlust and he would not permit his father, or these lands, hold over him again. In truth while he had wanted to speak to Touga it was not to repair old bonds or even to fight him, but to be able to explain to Kagome why Touga had made this choice. For when she healed, because he would return to heal her, her inquisitive mind would demand answers. Touga was the only one to give those and he had been prepared to face his sire in order to give them to her. No matter the consequences to himself he would protect Kagome. Much as Inuyasha had done in the frightened forest Touga retreated his steps out of respect for the turmoil of emotions before him. "I cannot do that my son, I must protect her. Many spirits have circled her and powerful demons will be even more drawn to her than before."

Before Sesshomaru could counter he felt something shift in the air. The portal leading to clean air, his home and his life, was gone.

Inuyasha watched nervously as the gate continued to diminish in size but not close. On multiple points he had nearly jumped into the vortex but was stopped by the steady hand of Malik on his shoulder. So instead both continued to stare at the offending portal to the afterlife as if it somehow could will Sesshomaru back. On only a few occasions had something attempted to escape through the new gate but all were quickly dispatched by the two demons.

It was not until the portal was the size of a hand that Inuyasha could no longer take the stress. Immediately turning towards Malik Inuyasha prepared a rant of the century until he looked at the figure behind them. How she had gone unnoticed or her length of stay was unknown but there she stood in all of her Kagome glory.

Malik turned to see what the boy had been gawking at and was surprised as well that his senses had not picked up her scent or footsteps.

She walked between them as she made eye contact with the portal. Recognition gleamed in her eyes as she remembered one of her first encounters with Sesshomaru and the world they visited. She placed her hand next to the portal as her feet shuffled forward, "What did he do?"

Inuyasha gulped as he tried to come up with some viable excuse but held his tongue as she turned back around with fury in her eyes. They nearly glowed with the light reflecting around her as she challenged both men in a near animalistic way, "Where did he go?"

Malik was the one to step forward, "You are sick Kagome, he went to find out why and how to help you."

Kagome growled in frustration as she felt the portal start to close further if only by a small fraction, "The moron went to go see his father didn't he?"

Malik displayed no surprise at the mention of Touga but instead kept the conversation going, "He was worried."

Kagome rolled her eyes as she looked back at the portal, her own hand not even able to fit through the hole now. She was clearly not ready to hear the concern that Sesshomaru held for her at this particular moment in time. Instead she was focusing on the anger she had towards the demon lord for placing himself in such peril, for a human on top of it. In comparison she knew her life expectancy was nothing related to his and he had to many creatures relying on him to make such a foolish move. This country needed a great ruler and every fiber in her being believed Sesshomaru to be that. Coughing slightly she reached her hand out to what remained of the portal and quickly snatched it away. A magnetic pull had her nearly toppling into the small breach and she had to push her feet backwards and steady herself against Inuyasha's grip. The moment she had stepped forward he had been there to pull her back towards him.

At the moment she did not recognize the symbolism in that move.

Looking up at her friend she tried to search for an answer, "What is the escape plan?"

Inuyasha shook his head, "We did not have time to make one Kagome. You are dying and we were out of options, besides, he was rather determined."

Kagome looked back at the portal as she tried to come up with any plan, no matter how ludicrous, to help the Western Lord. Her heart sunk as nothing came to mind and she was left with absolutely no answers. Gripping onto Inuyasha's coat further Kagome bit her lip as she felt her eyes water. It was not fair; it was not even remotely fair to have this happen. People had been attempting to cross between the land of the dead and the living for centuries and no one had succeeded. The only thing close to it was Tenseiga and that would be a small difficulty with it laying at Inuyasha's feet.

Then she glanced at it again and felt her resolve harden.

She was not ready to lose Sesshomaru.

Rushing briefly Kagome grabbed the sword and lunged for the portal as she watched the very last whips of it begin to disappear. She heard yelling from behind her and hoped beyond all reason that Inuyasha would forgive her. Before a claw could reach her she felt more than saw what could only be described as an earthquake destabilize both of the demons reaching for her as they shifted back and forth, her own feet remaining steady.

Then she focused on her journey. At first she felt conflicting feelings as the magnetic pull she felt before dragged her in while at the same time attempting to repel the sword. She could only imagine because it reflected life and it did not want such an object in its realm. Kagome felt the air escape her lungs as she stumbled forward.

Immediately falling onto her knees she felt a crunch of what she hoped was not any bones breaking. Still holding the sword to her chest Kagome panted as she clanked up, the barren wasteland of bones and dirt surrounding her. With a quick glance behind her she watched as the portal closed in on itself and her home world disappear.

Standing briefly, and finding her body near weightless and her footsteps hurting less with each step, she resolved her determination to find Sesshomaru and bring him home. She had no idea where he was or what to expect in this land but she knew what she wanted, and Kagome would not be leaving without Sesshomaru, Lord of the Western lands.

Firevixen73 – Hey everyone, I hope you enjoy! The story took a totally new turn that I was not expecting so at this point your guess is as good as mine about what happens. Happy Friday!