Kagome glanced around the barren area as she decided what to do. It was not her first time being in an unknown land after being pulled through a magical portal so she had some idea on what steps to take. First off she needed to find a source of water. Creatures would naturally gather to it and from there she could determine what still remained and what would be a potential threat.
Looking above her she saw a floating island. Mentally she cataloged that this world worked very differently from her own but as she handled the appearance of demons pretty well she figured it was possible to adjust to this one. Her biggest fear at this point was one of those little islands crashing down on her or maybe something from those little islands diving down at her. Keeping her eyes up Kagome pressed herself forward. It did not take long to notice how she felt lighter and in less pain than when on earth. She could not fathom why but as someone who had spent an inordinate amount of time bed ridden and suffering for who knows how long she did not hesitate in her movements.
Moving swiftly down a hill she crouched down to the ground after hearing shuffling noises. Hiding behind what can only be described as a giant rib Kagome lowered herself further. Instantly a snake demon was rising from where she landed, its head climbing from the ground while sniffing the air. Its body was large, perhaps her own size, which only frightened her slightly. She had faced worse and while she did not have her arrows she was still a priestess and would put up one hell of a fight.
It seemed the decay in the air interfered with the snakes senses for its frustration at locating the new food source was evident by the swaying it's head in different directions. After a few more minutes it finally settled on her location, the forked tongue testing the air menacingly. Kagome felt her resolve waver as blood red feral driven eyes made contact with her own. This was no demon; this was a beast that functioned purely on instinct. Memories of Inuyasha's savagery in this state accosted her and the fear multiplied tenfold. Could she protect herself from such a creature?
Just as she was debating her stride the creature lunged. Stifling a scream Kagome was shocked when fierce talons gripped the monster in the back resulting in the extended fangs spouting poison and the snake twisting in pain. It was a giant beast with wings that accosted the creature as the beak and claws tore through the snake midair, the bird obviously having spotted its lunch. The snake twisted further as it ripped into the demon bird with its fangs in hope of turning the situation in its favor.
Without looking to see what happened next Kagome bolted away from the giant rib without looking back. There were no trees for shade or cover, just the decay that surrounded her as the creatures engaged in their battle. Quickly deciding she needed to find water and a weapon Kagome dove into a dead brush. Evening out her breathing Kagome knew something would need to change. Looking around her she spotted a nearby corpse. It had long ago decayed leaving nothing but bone that had clearly been chewed clean. Whatever had ripped the meat off the once living creature was clearly not strong enough to devower the bone as well so she crawled to it. When she got closer she saw a sharp end that had at one point been broken. Not wanting to be defenseless she picked it up and hoped beyond all measure that she was not as barbaric as she was feeling.
Pulling Tenseiga closer by the strap on her back Kagome glanced around for the water source. After seeing nothing she had the instinct to try asking the land as she had been able to do in the castle. Kagome crouched to the ground to keep her head hidden as she did so. Placing her left palm on the ground she spread out her energy for assistance. She could feel very little below her and could practice hear the cries of the land. It was so close to dead it might as well be. The soil held no minerals and one would have to dig far for any source of water. Nothing headed her call due to there being nothing present to listen. After a few seconds of nothing but a small breeze she gave up. It pained Kagome in a way she could not explain to feel the land as she did, the death and destruction that surrounded it.
Sighing in exasperation and loss Kagome picked a random direction to follow. While her senses had picked up no energy or water in the earth the last thing she wanted was to be trapped out in the open. There were a few distinguished paths but something told her it was not the safest mode of transportation in this world. So she walked closer to the rocks and other items around her. It seemed to provide some version of cover and that was better than nothing.
It wasn't until she hit an impasse, between a dried up river with a very decrepit looking bridge or attempting to walk along the river banks, that she felt something. Actually, it was more of what she heard. It was a soft mummer that had no true words but spoke to her soul. It verbalized concern and worry, as if warning her. Taking her steps lightly she recognized the gentle feeling of wind on her face and crouched as low as she could to look under the bridge. Stories of trolls that ate travelers or played games with their prey for passage crossed her mind as she did so.
What greeted her was the sleeping form of a giant spider buried under the tattered remains of the channel. While it was not as big as the snake it was about the size of a dog if not including the spiders legs. It was enough to make her take a step back out of shock, still careful though not to step on anything that could wake it. Having enough interactions with spiders through Naraku Kagome quickly decided to pursue turning left along the riverbank hoping for a source of water upstream.
She pushed forward until her feet began to ache from the hard ground. Glancing around she cursed herself for acting so impulsively as to jump into an unknown portal. As if opening a floodgate of thoughts her memory immediately returned to both her and Sesshomaru talking in her room. With that her anger seemed to dissipate.
She was so used to the bigoted demon lord that half of that talk seemed like a dream, a beautiful and shocking world of her imagination. He had seemed so different, so broken when they spoke about his father. While he had never cried or shown an ounce of vulnerability she had felt it. He had listened almost longingly to her words and stories. She liked that part of him, the part that permitted himself to let her in. At the time she did not understand his reasoning and just enjoyed the moment but now she had time to reflect. Did he know of her truth when they were speaking of his father? Or was it afterwards? He had obviously figured it out at some point and pinpointing that moment seemed important.
Had he heard what she said about Touga, about his blinding love for his sons? Did he know his father's connection to her illness? Did he know about Touga's request?
Her heart constricted in pain as she thought about his history. The idea of Touga being so close must have paralyzed him and she felt her eyes suddenly watering as they processed his most likely emotions. A heavy weight seemed to drown her suddenly and her feet became lead. It was an overwhelming feeling as she tried to put herself in Sesshomaru's shoes; the small boy that was left alone, the child that was abandoned first for power and then for a sibling; the boy who was attacked daily not by a common thief or demons but by supposed lords and ladies.
The man who grew to hate everyone around him because no one could be trusted, nothing was safe.
Kagome looked up as she felt something wet on her cheeks, and then her head. The barren sky above her had suddenly turned grey and clouds pooled around the area as rain began to fall. Kagome stuck out her hand in wonder as she felt the water land around her. Her heart still hurt and she felt the overwhelming urge to continue crying but somehow kept it semi-under control. Her emotions had always been a ruling factor for her but inside she could feel something brewing. This wasn't just her, it was as if they were on overdrive in this land.
Accepting the rain as part of the ground's strange weather patterns Kagome sniffled while trying to get control of herself. It would be difficult enough to walk in the mud but her own blurry vision would not help the situation. Breathing deeply Kagome pressed forward until she could no longer feel the wetness behind her eyes. Gripping her weapon tighter she dashed to a cliff and quickly moved to the underside of it in hopes of staying dry. Clutching her heart Kagome felt a sense of dread race up her spine while simultaneously trying to understand the overwhelming feelings.
Deliberating between the two conflicting emotions she pushed the sadness away to turn slowly behind her. Her eyes widened as she saw a red eyed bear on all fours, triple rows of teeth growling threateningly at her. The claws were a bright red, from the clay like dirt or the blood of his latest kill she did not know, but Kagome was keenly aware of said paws moving closer. She identified her exit quickly as the bear lunged with a growl but her reflexes against demons were finely tuned at this point. Darting into the rain again and launching herself further up on the cliff back towards her previous path Kagome swiped blindly with the broken bone behind her knowing demons were never far behind in a chase.
She was surprised when mid-fall she felt the weapon connect with air. Glancing around she was surprised to see the demon bear standing on his back legs face up and staring at the sky. Her vision was blurry but Kagome was pretty sure it was not attacking. Nearly sprinting away Kagome rushed down the hill as Tenseiga bounced on her back as the moment of safety was not to be wasted. Almost immediately she began tumbling as the water had built a nice mudslide for her to fall down. Gathering what footing she could Kagome wrapped her arms around a tree husk and wiped her damp hair from her eyes.
The same fearful energy coursed through her and instinct dictated she look up. A giant plant with sharp teeth came crashing towards her as she rolled to the side. One thing was perfectly clear in this land and that was that no human soul made it very far. Everything here was designed to kill and if things kept going at this rate she would be dead by the setting of whatever counted as a sun.
As the plants teeth aimed for her ankles she reached for the bone that was somehow still near her and stabbed the deceptively beautiful petals. It got one brightly colored petal but the creature clearly didn't care as it tore through the bone like a twig. It latched onto her ankle and she felt a moment of blinding pain before she managed to kick it with her other foot. Shocked it dislodged before reassessing her threat level. It dove again and was suddenly crushed as a wrathfully strong bear claw trampled it. Kagome looked up to see the bear staring at her menacingly before quickly revering its attention to the plant's other body parts. Vines snapped on the ground as it found a meatier meal but the bear was formidable. The teeth grew in size and the claws swiped at everything.
Kagome pushed herself backwards into a rock until the plant stopped moving. The bear, bloody now with its own injures turned towards her. Grabbing Tenseiga from her back she tried reaching around but found that the stupid weapon would not leave its sheath. She yanked harder hoping that the sword was just stuck but found it unwilling to budge. Frantically she searched for the bone but found it still shattered on the ground far from her reach.
Just as she was about to charge to certain death with a covered sword that cannot cut anyway the bear stopped in front of her. It panted as if in pain and lowered itself to her height. Kagome blinked as the familiar feeling from before conveyed curiosity around her. That sound in her soul did not warn her of death but safety. Whatever it was it was clearly as conflicted as she was based off of the rampant feelings raging inside of her.
She looked down and saw the bear was not resting any weight on its right paw and could only assume it was injured beyond regular points as demon healing was rather quick. Then again this land seemed designed for survival of the fittest so perhaps healing did not work here. Panting while grabbing the rock Kagome tried to determine why she was sympathizing with the bear's injuries rather than thinking of a way to escape.
Then the bear looked back up at the rain then at her.
Kagome gulped as she tried to decipher what it all meant. So instead she just sat there as they stared at one another. More than a little bit of time passed and it was not until the rain stopped completely that the demon bear glanced away. Once again it was to look at the sky but the eyes quickly returned to her. It still seemed to be in pain though as the blood continued to poor from it. So far it had not acted aggressively in any way while they sat there and Kagome's proactive instincts were starting to take over. She could feel it as her eyes traveled to the wound and the bear holding the paw.
With a sigh, that had the bear stepping back slightly, and thus caused her to push herself back into the rock even more, Kagome gulped and did the one thing that everyone consistently called her stupid for.
"Can I look at it?" came out her voice.
The bear responded with a growl.
Kagome's resolve simultaneously shook and was solidified. Her hands nearly went to her hips but figured appearing aggressive to an injured animal was not her wises move available. "It's just you are clearly not letting me go anywhere and it looks really bad. I'm not sure but I think you also saved me so I feel bad".
Standing slowly she ignored the foul smell of dead meat coming from the roar that was quickly directed towards her. In a soothing voice she motioned to the paw, "Please."
The red eyes flashed blue momentarily as if it had a instant of clarity behind all that instinctual chaos. She shuffled forward again and slowly, almost at a snail's pace, lowered her hands to the bears paw. As soon as she touched the fur rows of teeth were around her fragile wrist and the panic in her returned. The bear did not bite down though; instead it held her arm in clear warning if she were to try anything. Gulping nervously she slowly called forth her powers of healing. The instant it made contact with the bear she felt the teeth press into her and the breaking of flesh. Almost as instantly it stopped as her and the bear made eye contact. She made sure the healing was slow as not to startle it. His teeth stayed embedded but not enough to touch her bone, just enough to cause her some serious pain and discomfort. Together they stayed like that until the healing was complete. Once she finished the bear did not move and any movement on her part would result in a torn limb.
After about five minutes the bear's eyes flashed blue again but this time stayed the same color for a bit longer before turning red. Then it moved slightly away to inspect its paw after unlocking its jaw. After clutching her arm and wrapping it with the bottom of her kimono they looked at one another again. Stepping towards her the bear growled and rose to its full height. Closing her eyes and waiting for impact she was surprised when she heard it landing on all four paws, then even more so when a cold wet nose pressed into her own. Opening her eyes again she was pleasantly startled to see a very curious demon bear standing in front of her. That same voice in her soul suddenly released a sigh and she felt her body relax.
Deciding to take another leap of faith she gently pulled her arm forward and placed the palm of her hand against its face. With a smile that lifted her soul further than she could imagine she whispered a soft, "I guess you aren't so scary".
The result was instantaneous where the bear closed its eyes and leaned deeper into her touch. Scratching softly in a way that animals in the past had proven to love she brushed her injured arm against in him. A brief glance told her pretty quickly that it was a male and she needed no further confirmation.
Standing briefly and making a silent agreement with herself that this world was only mostly scary she patted the bear's back. Whatever had caused the bear to protect her from the plant was something she would forever be grateful for because if there was one thing she needed in this world it was a friend. "So I am a talker mister bear and people get nervous when I talk to myself so I am going to have to name you."
Pausing briefly she tried to think of the most ridiculous thing to call a 9 or 10 foot bear with scars littering its body and multiple rows of teeth, "George, I am naming you George."
Turning towards her newfound friend she pointed towards the landscape, "You see George I am looking for a defiant dog who seems incapable of listening to me. He is incredibly powerful and does whatever he pleases because he thinks he is indestructible. You wouldn't happen to have seen that passing through here would you?"
The bear gave no indication to understanding at all and she bowed her head. Glancing at the setting sun she was surprised to see another one rising, did this place not have night? Kagome picked a random direction and was pleasantly surprised to see the bear following closely behind. With a smile on her lips she began talking about that which they were hunting.
"He is just difficult, but in this completely beautiful way you know. I didn't see it before but looking back on everything I do now. I think the first time was when he was sick…" Kagome paused as she felt the same unbelievable pressure and sadness overwhelm her again. Trying to stuff the feeling down she missed the bear looking at the sky again as it rumbled. It pushed itself closer to her and she felt the wordless comfort. "He almost died you know, and if he wasn't so strong he would have. He was so annoying but knowing him now I see how vulnerable he was and it is almost like an honor to be able to help him. He doesn't let anyone in and in that moment he chose me. Sure it was instinct and scents but to be there for someone that closed off is kind of nice." She paused again as her cheeks flushed, "Even if some moments were unbearably embarrassing."
The clouds dissipated as they continued to walk in whatever direction she happened to choose in that moment. Sometimes the bear would push her towards one direction and the one time she did not listen was the one time they were attacked by some stray demons. The bear seemed powerful enough and spent a total of five minutes destroying the creatures before they headed back in the brush.
By this time Kagome knew it was time to rest and wondered how the creatures of this land knew when to sleep. She took a break near what appeared to be a dead patch of weeds and trees; the bear providing her with an immediate pillow. Her stomach grumbled and she rolled to her side. The forethought of bringing food did not escape her notice. When she rolled back over Kagome immediately jumped up in pain as items hit her head. The bear was on its feet immediately and growling around them. Kagome rolled back over and saw that she had somehow sat under an pear tree. Glancing around for she had seen very little vegetation if any she picked up the pears and saw as more formed on the dead tree branch. The bear growled at the round fruit but she swatted him away in awe.
Tentatively taking a bite the juicy fruit filled her mouth with delight. With her joy it was almost as if more pears formed and she picked up a few more to eat. Happily content and with a filled stomach she burrowed into the bear and drifted off to sleep.
Touga watched in amazement at the dark clouds once again surfaced near the mountain hillside. His son paced around him as he tried to work a way back to the living. Normally Touga would be just as desperately trying to return his son to his proper realm but…rain?
Rain had not been seen in these lands since he first arrived. Both him and the broken man he shared a hut with would scrounge for water in order to grow what food they could, a human digestion not doing well on just demon meat. And demon plants tended to be rather poisonous by nature and were therefore avoided.
"Sesshomaru, are you sure you came here alone?" he asked while still looking towards the distant clouds.
Sesshomaru stopped his pacing, "Do not belittle me father, I am not you and would not bring a bystander into this."
Touga turned towards the rubble as his instinct demanded he decipher what had caused the rain in this world he now called home. He had worked hard to survive in such a place and was under threat near daily. Something had changed and he doubted it was his son's presence. What was one more demon in a land full of blood sucking rabid ones? This was not the life he wished for his children to have once they passed the land of the living and their souls returned to this plane. It pained him to have one here even now.
Touga glanced at the rainclouds again, "You sure no one followed? A defiant priestess perhaps?"
Sesshomaru turned on him quicker than rapid waters, "She is safe."
Touga's eyes narrowed as he saw the defiant gleam and the flash of red in Sesshomaru's eyes. It seemed as if Sesshomaru cared far more for this girl than the boy wanted to admit if such a comment elicited that reaction. Sure it was the land but they only fueled the instinct and emotions already there. "You may hate me my boy but this land has not seen rain in millennia and suddenly a moving storm cloud appears on the same day my son, who protects a celestial maiden in his free time, comes to chastise me?"
Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed, "She was sleeping soundly and even if she was not, no one would be so foolish as to-"
Touga cut him off, "-jump into a vortex to the underworld with no way out?"
Sesshomaru's growl was loud as he realized the error in his own words. Stretching his claws he countered, "Inuyasha would not permit it."
Touga felt his arms cross over his chest. It was a pose he previously donned as a warlord and felt his subordinates were acting blindly. Sesshomaru immediately recognized the posture from when he was young and tensed. "He would not allow her near such danger."
Touga growled, "Yes because she is so reasonable when it comes to the safety of individuals she cares about."
Sesshomaru's eyes flashed dangerously again, "You imply something you know nothing about. I am a host to her and nothing more; there would be no reason for her to travel here other than to make sure our alliance is still viable. That would be better rectified on her side of the realms, namely not here."
Touga felt the guilt fill him as he watched his own son be unable to recognize compassion or friendship. He knew the girl's heart and she had very conflicting feelings for his sons. Her relationship with Inuyasha was defined and she felt companionship and family with him. But Sesshomaru was different: she felt challenged, energized and excited every time she saw him. Part of him suspected it went beyond friendship but she had not consciously allowed herself to feel that knowing Sesshomaru as she did. He greatly hoped so for in all his years he had never seen someone so perfectly suited for his son. And no doubt in his mind Sesshomaru would spend the rest of eternity trying to do whatever he could to earn that affection every morning, night and day.
"My boy, she cares for you and I imagine she would care for you far more if you would let her," he tried.
He was met with a fist to the face as said boy slowly walked away from the situation as if he did not just punch out his deceased father in the afterlife who dared to suggest such a thing as companionship.
The demon lord picked himself up off the ground and straightened out his jaw with a click. As he stood he watched as Sesshomaru slowly head to the direction of the clouds, his usual pace evident. With a grin Touga brushed the dry dirt from his pants and followed at a safe distance. After a few moments of slow wondering Touga finally ventured to speak, "Do you think it is her now?"
Without a mis-step Sesshomaru voiced "No."
Touga continued at the same pace and distance from his son, "Then why are we travelling this way?"
Again Sesshomaru countered, "Because according to you something has changed and perhaps it will permit me to leave this wretched place."
Touga nodded at the logic but purposefully antagonized his son if only to hear his voice, "But what if it is her?"
Sesshomaru waited a few moments before answering as he had wanted to give a truthful response, "Then I will hate you more than words will ever convey." And with that he picked up his pace.
Kagome woke to the same unbearable heat from the sun as she decided whether it was better to bury herself further into the fur beside her or to move away from it. Eventually the need to go to the bathroom answered for her and she moved forward. The bear kept its eyes on her the whole time and she tried not think about how creepy that was. Kagome remembered enough to know that it was probably best George did so what with everything wanting to kill her.
Once she was back at her campsite she looked down at her arm to see that it had scabbed over. Thankful that no infection had set in over night as her natural healing came forth. As a thank you for allowing her body to feel safe enough to heal she patted George's back, "Thank you George for the pillow and protection, now that the clouds have gone away let's see what we can do about finding that dog."
Together they set back out in whatever direction she fancied, George being cautious of various things around her. Eventually they reached a burrow and Kagome felt the sudden instinct to stop. Everything in her, every bone every cell and every nerve screamed at her. She looked around frantically trying to decipher the source but nothing stood out to her. Suddenly she felt George stiffen and his fur rise. Within moments he was growling savagely and tearing at the ground. She looked down as dirt flew everywhere and sensed her nerves hitch as she watched a baby bird demon try to scurry away. It was about half the size of Shippo and was favoring a broken wing. Stepping in immediately she jumped in front of George and threw her arms out indicating him to stop. The bird was already in his mouth but not crushed.
"Let him go George, he is just a baby", the eyes flashed a more furious red but Kagome held her ground. "George, drop it." After a few seconds the bear opened his mouth but instead of flying away the small bird demon dove for the bear's eyes. To late Kagome realized that the bird was also feral even at such a young state. Grabbing for the bird before it could cause any damage Kagome rocked it close to her chest. It continued to peck and she could feel the blood covering her hands as it tried to either escape or claim such a large prize as its meal. George was just as outraged as he paced around her angrily. But Kagome rocked back and forth while taking the pain. If this little thing was here that meant it had been killed. In human terms, based on size and such she would place it no older than two-years-old.
When the rocking did not work and the bird became more frantic her tears welled up again as the pain intensified. Remembering her mother's calming techniques Kagome began to sing a small lullaby to distract herself. Once the rain started again she closed her eyes and continued with her plans, the motion and singing continued. It carried on for some time until at least five or so minutes had passed without the pain or ripped flesh.
Looking down she saw the bird shivering in the cold and the wing still at the wrong angle. It followed her eyes though, and her words as she continued to sing the silly lullaby that depicted her name. Once she was sure the bird would not go for her face her grip released even more until the bird dropped to her lap. It stayed still though as it looked up at her, then at the bear. George had remained still with fierce protectiveness in his eyes. He watched the bird and clearly had opinions about her hands. Looking down at them Kagome cringed. They were torn to shreds and blood was everywhere coating her dress in patches.
Looking down at the shivering baby bird that clearly had not grown fully adult feathers she pushed the pain aside. The thing was injured and she imagined it had done anything possible to survive in this world. This incessant rain was not helping with the cold and she could only hope it stopped soon. Sucking in a breath she asked George if there was a shelter nearby.
Still staring at the bird he slowly turned his body towards a nearby hill. Still clutching the creature she rose and followed, weary of the shark beak but instead it nuzzled closer to her warmth. To pass the time she restarted her lullaby as it seemed to help calm her down. Eventually they reached a cave, which George cleared of not so friendly demons with a roar and what she assumed was a tasty meal. She gathered some wood after making some gloves out of what was left of her sleeping kimono.
The baby bird it seemed had become rather attached to her and remained close by, also showing a healthy amount of weariness as the bear chewed on bones. Wanting to show appreciation for the bear she walked closer to George and gently pat him on the head. Once she was comfortable again she laid by his side and tried to stay warm from the rain. After a few more second she heard a growl and was shocked to see George and the baby demon bird in a standoff. The creature had clearly tried to inch closer to her in hopes the larger predator would not notice.
Looking back down at her hands and hoping the pressure did not reopen anything Kagome reached towards the bird while making soothing sounds at both creatures. Teeth slowly receded and wings stopped their incessant flapping. With another sigh Kagome pressed her back closer to George. In truth she had no idea where she was, how to find Sesshomaru, was injured in multiple place and was freezing clod from the ridiculous rain followed by the unbearable heat.
God her life sometimes sucked.
Knowing that this was her own fault and yet she would not change a thing Kagome imagined what she would tell the stupid demon once she saw him. Probably that he was stupid, and an idiot and undeniably moronic for doing this. Sure he was powerful but traveling through worlds was no joke. And why had he done this anyways? Up until today she thought he tolerated her but he had been so honest in their last conversation. Again too when she shot him with the arrow while admitting to training her son. What was that? Was that the demon Touga had kept talking about? Was that what he would have become if he had not let his hate consume him?
Kagome reached for the sword by her and tried to recall all of her interactions with the demon lord. She had defended him on just as many occasions as she had fought with him that she knew. But a larger part remembered her conversation with Inuyasha while identifying her own connection with their sibling bond. She had hated Souta more than anything but learned to overcome it. Sesshomaru being willing to sacrifice himself for any cause, whether it was her or to see his father again, indicated more insight into his mind than she thought. In truth Kagome figured he buried everything he felt and chalked it all up to hatred and duty; but what if he knew? What if he knew why he was the way that he was? What if he felt everything and chose to pretend while internally wanting something different but not thinking it was possible? What if he actually wanted people to care about him? What if he wanted to care about others?
Or what if he really just wanted to be the best by lording over a dead man?
The sword in her hands did not respond to her internal questions much to her frustration. Growling slightly Kagome wondered what on earth was going on in her mind. Touga was right, her thinking process was a mess and completely incapable of following logic. Her heart though, that she could follow and she knew with every ounce that it wanted to help him. Not because he deserved it or because he was Inuyasha's brother. It was because she wanted to know what type of man he could become if he let down those impenetrable shields of his. She had a sneaky suspicion she would like that man, a lot.
God damn it she would very much like that man. In her mind she reimagined their arguments with a flavor of trust and respect added to the mix. She imagined someone who did not hate her best friend but was determined to bury any affection he had under layers of death glares. She pictured a frustrated demon who wanted desperately to have his surrogate daughter returned to him but knowing she would be killed within seconds of a viable strike. She also imagined his personality. He was naturally guarded and an alpha to boot which brought on a whole mountain of complexes.
Then she pictured the image of the old demon laying in a deathbed, the very picture Touga had told her of, realizing how lonely he was while swallowing down the urge to ask anyone to be there for his final moments because weak was not something he could be. With an intake of breath Kagome felt her eyes water again.
If this was the case it certainly explained some things. Especially why she jumped into a portal to a demon realm without a second thought for Sesshomaru of all creatures.
"Well George, it looks like I am royally screwed cause I think I might have a little bit of a crush on a man with no interest in me." Kagome growled again, "what is it with me and freaking dogs?"
The bear turned towards her and huffed.
Sitting up she felt her ire rise. After pacing for a few seconds she pointed towards the bear, "I mean it is stupid right? Let's just say all these crazy things I am thinking are possibly on some universe true? That does not mean he would feel anything towards me and nowhere in that analogy does it indicate anywhere that humans are okay in his book."
She paced again and then stopped, "Okay maybe Rin but she doesn't count."
The bear placed his head back down again while watching her pace. The small bird hopped quickly up the bears back and burrowed into the fur behind its neck. It seemed as if the two had come to a truce because no one threatened one another. Kagome for her part did not notice their agreement; nor the raging storm happening outside.
"I am just saying that she is like an exception because she is adorable and no one could not love that. So really my subconscious needs to calm the freak down and go back to just thinking he is cute from a distance where the poison whips cannot reach you." With that being said a large lighting bolt hit directly outside of the cave and not even a second passed before the ominous thundering sound followed. The bear was directly in front of her within moments guarding the creature he had decided to adopt.
Jumping up in the air she watched as water began streaming into the cave while the weather grew even more tumultuous. Blinking rapidly while both creatures curled around her, the bird now near her neck nesting in the warmth, she patted the bear. Truly taking notice for the first time the lack of minerals, the dry lands and erosion of the grounds Kagome came to a quick conclusion. "It doesn't normally rain here does it?"
George continued to growl at the spot where the lightening hit.
Stepping back into the cave Kagome clutched her heart. The one that no longer hurt and was not causing her to collapse repeatedly. Her feat, her lungs, her tears and even her taste buds were back to normal. It was something she had discounted before since she was adamant about finding Sesshomaru but when she thought about it how was it possible? She was closer to Touga than ever before so her symptoms in theory should be worse.
Looking back towards the rain she imagined each time it started…she had been crying.
More lightening hit all around the cave and both creatures were immediately on edge. The bear was up on its back paws, the mouth growing to extraordinary proportions as it swiped at invisible forces. The bird pitched itself into the air as the static continued, squawking territorially.
Then she saw it, a flash of silver and white.
Eyes widening she jumped in-between what she could only hope was a friend and threw out her hands. A burst of electricity came from the sky and hurled itself at the silver colored creature. Her eyes were focused and then unfocused in the rain but she watched as it dodged away seconds before being shocked. Rolling to the side the creature stiffened as she panted, her breathe still not caught up her in lungs.
Sesshomaru.
Even through the downpour of rain Kagome knew his figure anywhere. He stood slowly as his eyes reached hers. To her shock they hardened immediately and her own fear intensified. While she did not think he would attack something had royally pissed him off.
Placing her hand behind her to ease the creatures she now called friends Kagome tried to calm her nerves.
His anger did not go away and had begun to frighten her.
He stepped forward irately but the one move caught her by surprise. Another lighting bolt struck where he had been and he dodged again. This time his form was tense and battle worthy as he made eye contact, those golden disks narrowing as they assessed her.
"You are injured."
Kagome clutched her palms and dug in through her nails, "You jumped through a portal to the afterworld."
His eyes narrowed again to the point of causing the bear to growl. The golden eyes transferred to the bear that clearly picked up on Sesshomaru's predator nature, "I assume he belongs to you?"
Kagome felt her own eyes narrow with a sense of completely irrational irritation. Seems her fear was gone as he commented on her friend choices. She knew it was absurd, the amount of betrayal she felt surge within her, but she felt it none the less. "Well I needed someone who would stick around and dogs did not seem to be working well for me."
The face remained passive but he side stepped the insult smoothly, "You did not inform us of Touga's hold on you, measures had to be taken."
Kagome crossed her arms defiantly. While she noticed that the rain was letting up the darkness of the clouds were not. Perhaps the lightening was not quite done as of yet. "And you just had to pick a fight with him didn't you? Forget about everyone who needs you back home since they obviously mean so little to you."
Sesshomaru's jaw visibly ticked with that comment, "Why did you come here? It is not safe."
The air crackled again and they both looked up momentarily. After a few more seconds of the standoff Kagome actively let the anger go. While it felt good in the moment she knew it would get her nowhere quite quickly. With the visible tension gone she looked back at Sesshomaru helplessly. "I just…you need to come home and I did not have time to think of another way."
With her own anger dissipating Sesshomaru permitted himself room to breathe, "I am a demon, I can survive this world but you are vulnerable. I left instructions with Inuyasha."
Scoffing mockingly Kagome rolled her eyes, "One day people will realize that I do not do well with being told what to do. Until that day I expect you and I will just continue to be placed in these situations."
The bird jumped on her shoulder and she winced while petting it on the head slightly. Kagome watched as Sesshomaru's eyes followed the various wounds on her hands. Before either could say anything Kagome froze as another figure stood behind Sesshomaru. She had missed him before what with her focus being split but now her eyes narrowed. Turning towards Sesshomaru's figure she glared.
He had sought out his father, and then made sure he found him. He looked like there had been more than a scuffle as well. She knew they must have fought immediately, probably did not even bother with words as Sesshomaru attacked. Touga of the west did not get a bruise,ripped clothes and blood on him easily. This had nothing to do with the inner man he kept hidden with wants and feelings; this had always been about power. Domination over someone who he had always wanted to surpass and the perfect opportunity had presented itself. Kagome had turned into a tool, not a comrade. She had fooled herself and it was stupid to come here. Now she had her answer.
Turning back towards the cave she resumed her trek, "I have a fire for warmth if either of you want to discuss getting back to the others. I suspect it will be a rainy night."
And indeed, the rain started up quite quickly after that again.
Sesshomaru sat in the obnoxious cave as he assessed his current situation. The anger was the worst; it was palpable and had not subsided since he first obtained her scent in the woods. When he saw her standing there injured in the rain his beast had nearly burst forth. The rage of knowing she was here was debilitating. She should not be present in this disgusting place. It was infested with leeches and their kin. She was far better than this realm and the fact that she was breathing this air, let alone stuck here nearly made him gut his father on the spot.
Her injuries were numerous and the only thing that kept that infernal bird alive was how it sat on her shoulder for protection. The twit had injured her, and while other injuries were present those creatures had long since passed from the area. The bear had redeemed itself by protecting her and Sesshomaru could forgive that one as the wounds were now sealed over.
What irked him the most was the continued presence of his father. In truth it was his fault she was here. The man had tormented her for months, played with the very fabric of her being in hopes of completing his own selfish goals. While that goal was still to be decided the value of Kagome's life was not up for debate.
And now he had to sit next to the creature that even after death continued to rip apart the fabric Sesshomaru had built out of his life.
It was infuriating.
Kagome slowly moved away from her pet bear, with a ridiculous name if he ever did hear one which he would continue to refuse to use, only to move in front of his father. Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed as he immediately assessed the situation and how quickly he could move to tear the man's head from his body should any show of aggression be displayed. Sesshomaru also considered bodily harm if the fool deemed himself worthy enough to speak to the person he had condemned to pure agony.
He was surprised though when the fierce and terrible father he had grown with did not appear. Instead he watched the normally proud man cave in on himself. The two beings who now stood across from one another had not spoken, let alone made eye contact, since entering the cave. As Kagome had predicted the rain poured furiously throughout the night which for a bit had created a wonderful distraction. Kagome it seemed planned on breaking that silence. Once she stood about a foot away from Touga the two had their eyes finally meet.
Touga's eyes shifted immediately and if he was a better demon Sesshomaru would have acknowledged the insurmountable guilt radiating off of his sire. He was not a better demon though and felt pride in one woman's stare resulting in true humility from such a man. Still Kagome stood firm and another minute passed. Eventually a vulnerable side he had never seen emerged and the words "I'm sorry" came from Touga's lips.
The dead demon still did not move and continued to make eye contact with a puddle on the ground.
Kagome crouched to said ground and put her face directly in front of the avoidant pair of golden eyes aged with something far worse than battle. After a few more seconds Kagome sighed in near defeat, "For what Touga? Trying to kill me, torturing your children? Your part in trapping us here? There is a long list of items you need to repent for and while I admit some of what you did is redeemable based solely on fatherly intentions there was so much unnecessary pain you caused."
Touga sighed as well, "It seems it is the demon way to cause misfortune little one. I thought I found a way to fix what I had broken and while I would not change it, I am sorry for any harm I have caused you. You have become precious to me and I only hope it pays off in the end."
Kagome shook her head, "And how are Inuyasha and Sesshomaru supposed to be a family with one of them stuck here in the afterworld with his dead father and a human? I think you need to revise your goals."
Touga's eyes snapped open as he glanced as his son briefly as if identifying a key piece of information, "My goal changed recently, didn't you know?"
Sesshomaru recognized that infuriating look in Touga's eyes and felt his ire become unmanageable. Poison leaked from his finger tips and he quickly moved them behind his back before others noticed. Kagome did not acknowledge the added tension in the room as she tried to determine when Touga's sights had refocused. He had always been so single minded and indicated that nothing other than his sons had mattered.
Touga, seeing her confusion, placated her immediately, "I see now that I was limited in my thinking. During my time in the otherworld I saw things I did not expect to see and knowing how horrible my kind are with emotions I thought to exploit something buried deep. So while I continued to use you to help them recognize one another as pack that may have turned into a bit of a side project."
Kagome slowly sat up as she processed everything. Her suffering and keeping life altering secrets from her friends was a side project? Clutching her fist together she bit her lip in anger as the tears emerged again. Her suffering returned along with the memory of betrayal she felt every day in not being able to tell Inuyasha about his father; in placing her dear friends in harmful situations as she dreamt nightmare after nightmare; lost an insurmountable amount of weight from her inability to eat food and the pain of acid consuming her body. But she was just a side project. "How is it that you two continue to destroy every sense of hope I have with such little effort?"
Additional lightning did not strike, the rain did not change but the weather grew cold. Frost seemed to nip at their noses and Touga felt the pain in her eyes. Before he could explain she had turned on her feet and walked out into the rain standing by the entrance to the cave. The bear had immediately moved itself forward and placed its large body by her as both a physical and emotional comfort. The bird was not far behind.
Touga moved to sit up and explain but Sesshomaru's aura stopped him. When they made eye contact the oldest son stated harshly, "You have hurt her enough, I think it is time you give up your moronic quests and let her be."
Touga's eyes temporarily narrowed into slits. It seemed he did not hold the same amount of guilt for Sesshomaru's situation as he did the girl for the vulnerability was gone and the warlord had returned, "My single minded quest for your happiness is only as moronic as your effort to remain isolated and alone for the rest of your life."
Sesshomaru's ears focused on the sound of the rain momentarily as to make sure that their conversation was private, "You know nothing of what would make me happy. And you will not ruin her life just to end up proving yourself wrong."
Touga scoffed, "You have hidden yourself for to long Sesshomaru. You can no longer recognize when your shields are cracked or when a being can see through them. No one entices emotions from you such as she does; even dead I can see that."
Sesshomaru's low growl subsided as the bear glanced in their direction if only to resume the protective stance around his new found mistress cuddled in his fur. Once they no longer had an audience Sesshomaru resumed, "You mistake curiosity for affection. She has proven herself valuable and I like efficiency. A trait you taught your subordinates well if I recall."
Both beings vividly remembered the brutal training sessions Sesshomaru had undergone in an effort to be a better warrior, to be something his father would look upon with pride. Touga for his part ignored the blow and gave his own growl, "I will never claim to be a good father Sesshomaru but I can say that I know my son and I know when he is actively attempting to ignore something."
Sesshomaru turned his head and focused on the small head of hair only slightly visible from this side of the bear. Looking at the rain again he very resolutely stated "You know nothing."
Much to his surprise his father dared to laugh. It was small and barely audible to someone without demonic hearing but it was enough to rise the hairs on the back of Sesshomaru's neck. That laugh had destroyed kingdoms. Then a very strange statement came from his father's throat, "Perhaps you are correct and hold no affection for her but the same cannot be said of Kagome's feelings towards you."
Sesshomaru's head snapped in the direction of his father, "How dare you insin-"
But Touga ignored the building threat, "For a woman only becomes upset by things that matter to her and you my boy were just as much a part of her parting statement as I was. While I will not presume to know what the feelings are that she holds I would deem to say they are not just based out of curiosity or efficiency."
Before Sesshomaru could retort the demon bear had moved to adjust his stance. Kagome had at that time decided she could manage the testosterone in the cave and resumed her participation with speaking company. Her eyes were not wet but they were red with unshed tears. Her grip on the bear's back was still firm as she steadied her breathing. "So how do we get out of here? The way this place effects me is not something I really want to experience more of."
Touga, on what one could only presume was a high from his discussion with Sesshomaru, casually leaned back against the wall with his arms behind his head, "Do not ask me little one, Sesshomaru is the strategist here."
Sesshomaru did not miss his father's attempt to get the two of them speaking with one another. It had not passed either of their notice that Kagome had not uttered another word to the demon lord since initially entering the cave.
Kagome stomped her foot, "You travelled between worlds and to be honest I do not really like this one, it is dark and cannibalistic. So no part of me believes that you haven't thought of something."
Touga shook his head, "We have nothing that connects us to the other world. You were my source prior to this and that was because the gate was still open. It has been dwindling since then and near non-existent since Kikyo passed."
She glanced between both demons and gripped the fur around her tighter, "Is Kikyo here?"
Touga eyes glanced downward, "No."
Nothing more needed to be said. In truth Kagome did not want to know what had befallen the priestess for although the woman had attempted to kill her multiple times she never wanted her harmed. Stopped yes, but not harmed.
Kagome then glanced up and bit the inside of her lip, "Would the Sword of Heaven work?"
Touga and Sesshomaru both felt their eyes snap open at the mention of the sword. Touga was on his feet as he glanced around the cave furiously, "Tenseiga is here?"
Kagome brushed her toes into the ground and scratched her head, "I mean it wasn't easy because it really did not want to come here. It has been particularly difficult as well which I assume is a trait you left all of your swords."
Touga's eyes continued to search the grounds but found nothing out of the ordinary. No legendary blade or healing energy that typically surrounded it surfaced into his senses. Kagome huffed as she walked over towards the back of the cave. After moving a few rocks from a self-made hole in the back wall she pulled out a dirt covered sword and sheath. Within seconds Touga was by her side appraising his sword. With pure joy on his face, something very similar to a child being handed an old favorite toy they thought lost, Touga reached for it.
It pulsed once in awareness.
Then it shocked the shit out of him.
The demon flew back multiple feet and through a part of the cave entrance, his head and shoulders taking out the right side of the wall leading to the outside, and the electricity following him right out of the cave.
Kagome glanced down at her outstretched palm and felt the sword pulse again, on instinct she let it go. As it clattered to the ground she looked up at Sesshomaru, "While I would be very happy to take credit for that, it was not me."
Sesshomaru glanced at his sword and then his father's slumped form that was now out in the rain. He could not help the smirk that graced his features no matter how hard he tried to present himself as composed, "He deserved it."
Kagome glanced back down at the sword warily. Not really wanting to risk that again as she was no demon and could not survive that type of attack no matter how the weather was connected her here, she glanced at Sesshomaru and purposefully instigated a conversation. "Do you think you could, maybe, pick it up?"
Sesshomaru glanced down and looked at the sword, "You wish for me to get attacked?"
Kagome's eyes tightened angrily, "Yeah, a little. But more like it is your sword and it is less likely to do that to you."
"I think that is precisely why it would attack me, I do not believe it is happy to be here and would happily throw this one through the cave as well," he tried reasoning.
Kagome stomped her foot, "You just don't want to get shocked even if you do deserve it."
Sesshomaru remained seated, "While that one is technically dead, which could also be the cause of the reaction it is a part of him and should not have responded that way. A more logical option is that the sword did not want to be held and is making its opinion known."
Kagome crossed her arms, "I held it."
Sesshomaru glanced back at his father who was now cursing his burnt hands and muddy hair, "You are different."
Now frustrated at the return to limited responsive answers Kagome stomped her foot again to garner attention, "Why because I am human? Because I am weak and need protection?"
His eyes immediately flashed towards her in frustration, "You are Kagome, no matter your blood or your status in this world, that defines you far more than anything else. The sword is choosing to remain with you at this moment in time for reasons I do not know but most likely because through everything you remain true to yourself and character. Both Touga and I have shown ourselves incapable of that in recent interactions. I have no doubt it would respond to me in much the same way as it did him."
Kagome's demeanor immediately relaxed as she saw his tension build. While she was still furious at his choices Kagome felt a larger part of her want to comfort him, "You know you can call him your father that is what he is after all."
"You and I have very different definitions of the word."
Kagome shook her head with a smile, "He is a lonely man who wanted to correct his mistakes. I can fault him for his methods but not his reasoning."
Breaking their moment Touga immediately strode in with fury in his eyes. He made eye contact with nothing but the sword that now lay on the ground as he nearly pounced towards the object. Within seconds of touching it the same burst of energy came forth after a pulse. Try as he might Touga could not hold on. It was much the same energy as when the brothers had attempted to pull the sword's brother from their father's grave. He flew back multiple feet but this time was prepared and dug his heels in, just skidding to a stop as the dirt billowed around him.
"It seems to be rather upset at the moment," he gathered towards the group.
With a deep longing to be anywhere else Kagome very carefully picked the object up. The sword once again pulsed but did not shock her. So on a whim she walked towards Sesshomaru. He eyed the sword warily and after a few sparks he pulled away before even touching it. He would not repeat his father's experience.
With a huff Kagome growled, "Well it likes George and the bird."
Touga seemed to take personal offense to that, "I told Totosai not to make them sentient but he just had to do things his way."
Strapping the sword against her back Kagome looked out at the lessening rain. She was not sure what had lifted her mood but it was evident by the less frequent rain drops. "So what is our next step?"
This time Sesshomaru spoke, "Our goal is to get you to the land of the living as we do not know what this world will do to you."
Kagome turned on him immediately, "You are such an idiot you know that? I came here for you and we will be leaving together."
He stood fiercely, "Do not make decisions for me about things you do not understand."
Her eyes seemed to roll all on their own with no assistance needed from her brain, "Oh please, I know a vendetta against Touga when I see one. You came here to prove your superiority over your father and once again claim how much better you are than everything else, so let's not pretend that the plan is my safety."
Sesshomaru took a step back as he processed her words. He waited more than a few seconds as he identified her stance and boiling emotions. He recognized them for what they were, strong, but could not place them on his own. Sesshomaru did catch her words though and felt that oasis of vulnerability nearly swallow him so he did what he had always done and ignored it whatever way he could. He lied not only to her but also to himself. "We will need to fix the sword if we wish to return to the castle, now that things here have nearly been settled."
Kagome took a step back as he silently confirmed her suspicions. He hadn't denied it, his reason for returning to this place. She did not know why but it hurt beyond measure to know that he had used her just as his father had. She did not cry though and when the clouds billowed again she kept them at bay. Turning on her heal she jumped on George's back, wanting to give her injuries a bit of a break. Her ankle hurt and her hands did not want to be constantly re-adjusting the sword from the swaying of her hips. The bear happily accepted her and the bird crawled up slowly by grabbing fur in its beak.
It was refreshing to get out of the cave she could only hope the space would do her some good.
Touga on the other hand looked at his son disapprovingly, "Like I said, my kind are extremely limited with understanding their emotions."
Sesshomaru growled, "I did not lie."
But Touga continued forward as he followed their friend in whatever direction she happened to choose. Nothing good could come about them brooding in here and her plan to wander was as good as any now that further protection was in place, "Yes but you did not tell the truth either. For if you had she would know that your quarrel with me was based around my placing her in danger not superiority."
Sesshomaru turned towards his father, "You and I still need to discuss a way to reverse these effects on her. She will not die; it is not permitted to happen. I came here for answers and you have yet to give those to me."
Touga shook his head, "There is no reversing this, her soul has awakened and the only thing that will keep her alive is to evolve. To do that she will need strength in herself to survive the change and a protector to trust her very being with. While the bear and bird are a substitute at this time they are not near powerful enough to entrust her too. The powers must balance one another and complement the other in a continuous cycle. She far surpasses them in strength and as they now recognize her light they both know she does not belong here."
"And how is this protector decided?" pressed Sesshomaru.
Touga shrugged his shoulders, "I have no idea. All the original celestials have passed on and no one on this side knows. Trust me I have tried searching once I learned of what she was. I originally was determined to make it Inuyasha and then I saw how she inspired you-"
But Sesshomaru was gone before Touga could challenge the boy further. He glanced up to see his son land gracefully at a proper distance behind Kagome. Ever the gentleman giving her space while also avoiding all legitimate talk of feelings.
Touga rubbed his temples in annoyance. This quest would be far easier had his oldest not inherited the family trait for stubbornness. In the history of time Kagome was the only one to affect him so but with her anger directed at both of them she was in no place to exploit that skill accidentally. This was permitting Sesshomaru to use her insecurities to patch up the holes he had allowed in his armor of mirrors.
This could not continue.
But Kagome would be the only one to slip past it and she could not do that angry, or with all of these distractions. Glancing at the bear that had become her new sense of comfort and seeing the bird that rested in her hair he came to a quick conclusion. They were her new Inuyasha and friends while in this land. They provided her comfort so she only needed to face the fears and feelings which she chooses.
The two needed to be alone and depend on one another. Kagome would not be able to run away to another person and Sesshomaru would be forced to face his own feelings.
Now the question was how to convince the protective demonic animals running purely on instinct to allow their one source of light in this world go with another.
Firevixen73 – Hi everyone! I am so excited at where this story is going and expect some major Kag/Sess shipping in the next chapter. It is wonderful to finally have built the relationships between everyone up and now see how it plays out. I have been waiting for this for forever as it always felt like with Sesshomaru's background they would need a lot of time and interventions to build true feelings.
I know all of you hated Touga for the longest time so I hope this gives more insight into where his mind is and where it is going. And please let me know what you think! I have some plans on how to push the two love birds together but I always appreciate more ideas to play with.
I love your reviews and they keep me inspired! I always read them right before I dive into a new chapter because they help me so much.