Chapter Three

Kagome followed silently after the daiyoukai, nervously playing with her fingers. Stealing a glance at Sesshomaru, his posture rigid with anger, she pursed her lips. What have I done?

"You have neither the permission nor the right to gaze at my person," growled Sesshomaru haughtily. He stopped to turn to the miko behind him, glaring at her. "I may be forced to have to be in your company, human, but that gives you neither the right to think that we are, in any way, equals."

Stiffening, Kagome frowned, trying to bite back the anger rising in her. Unable to hold back, she said, "Listen here, Sesshomaru. You may be Lord of the Western Lands, but that gives you no right to treat me as if I am nothing at all. You may not want to be my friend or companion, but I'm not here for that. I am here to prevent a wrong from being committed. And if I fail in this task, I will not only be forced from this time and place but will be unable to help in the fight against the evil that committed the wrong. I'll be unable to do anything, and all that I love will suffer. I can't let that happen. I do this for your sake, for Sango, for Miroku, for Shippo for Kikyo, and most of all for Inuyasha."

With a snarl, eyes narrowing, Sesshomaru said, "Inuyasha. The worthless seed of my father. Pitiful. He does not deserve your compassion."

Shaking her head angrily, Kagome said, "What kind of brother are you? All Inuyasha ever wanted was to be accepted and loved, and you are the only family he has. Yet, time after time, you try to kill him. It's because of people like you that have caused him to become so calloused and harsh."

Taking a menacing step forward, Sesshomaru growled. "Watch yourself, human."

"Or what? You'll kill me?" Narrowing her eyes, Kagome began to release the binds on her miko power, allowing it to resonate off of her in waves. "Try it."

Eyes bleeding red, an unconscious reaction to her pure, burning power, Sesshomaru snarled. At this, Kagome lowered into a defensive stance and focused on the daiyoukai before her.

Just as he was about to attack, a voice sounded in the deep recesses of his mind. 'Remember the scroll, Sesshomaru.'

Narrowing his eyes, he replied, 'My life is to be controlled by myself, not by gods like you, Zeus.'

A deep, smooth chuckle sounded in his mind. 'Always a clever pup. Just remember: with her life comes a loss of something precious, yet a gain of everything, and with her death comes a darkness so evil it corrupts the soul. You are to serve as her protector and guide, but her path is to be chosen by herself and her alone. Your destinies are forever entwined with one another.'

'We'll see about that,' replied Sesshomaru. With an unhappy growl, he turned to the miko and said, "Cease your foolishness, human. The sooner we finish this quest of yours, the sooner the gods stop using me as their plaything."

Folding her arms in defiance, Kagome said, "No. Tell me where we are going first."

He gazed at her, anger rolling off of him, the heat of it causing the hairs on the back of her neck to stand, but he merely replied, "You shall need supplies."

After a few miles of quiet, uneasy tension, Sesshomaru stopped and turned to the miko. "Wait here." Without another word, he turned and left, leaving Kagome exasperated and upset.

Hearing the sound of water rushing nearby, she let out a childish cry of glee. Without a second thought, she rushed to it, her eager steps short and quick.

What she found was a large river, the water angrily pushing and shoving to get to its destination. She kneeled down and carefully brought water up to her lips in handfuls, making sure not to be swept away by the rapids.

Suddenly, sensing a presence, Kagome jumped up, spinning around, her body tense and ready to defend itself. With silent surprise, Kagome came face-to-face with an old woman.

The elderly woman stared at Kagome, an almost toothless smile brightening her face, causing the weathered, wrinkled features to wrinkle even more.

With a sweet smile, Kagome said, "Hello."

"Hello, young one," the woman replied, her voice as soft and brittle as she looked. "If I may be so bold, may I ask a favor?"

Taken by surprise at such a sudden request from a mere stranger, Kagome faltered. Remembering the Lord who, without a doubt, would be furious if she was not where he told her to stay, she was about to make an excuse. But then, gazing into the old woman's eyes, which seemed to hold the knowledge of the universe in them, Kagome was compelled to assist her. What harm could there be?

So, with a nod, Kagome smiled. "Sure."

With a wider grin, further creasing her old face, the old woman said, "Well, I am on my way to see my daughter and her family, who live on the other side of this river. But there doesn't seem to be a way across, even though I've been searching for one all day. So, I ask that you help me across safely. Please."

Taken yet again by surprise, Kagome turned her attention from the old woman to the rushing water beside her. When she finally found her voice, Kagome stuttered, "N-no… problem…"

Blinking rapidly, Kagome mentally shook herself. Gauging the old woman and the wide river, she sighed. The only way I can get her across safely, without drowning, is to carry her on my back. It's a good thing she looks small…

Bending down, Kagome smiled politely, gesturing to her back. "Here, why don't you climb on my back. I believe it will be the safest and easiest way to get across."

"Thank you, young one," the old woman replied gratefully, and proceeded to do as Kagome bid.

With a soft grunt, Kagome adjusted to the extra weight, trying to get comfortable. Secretly grateful that the woman was small and light due to old age, Kagome carefully began to make her way across the river.

With quiet dread, Kagome discovered the river to be not only treacherous, eager to pull her in and drag her about, but cold as ice, soaking her to the very marrow in her bones. The rocks beneath her feet were slippery and smooth, covered in a layer of moss and mud.

Carefully, steadily, Kagome made her way across, biting back screams when her feet slipped from beneath her, managing to catch herself in the nick of time. The water swirled furiously around her, rising as high as her shoulders, constantly crashing around and on her, trying to sweep her and her companion away.

After what seemed to be an eternity, Kagome made it halfway across. Suddenly, the weight on her back grew, nearly causing her to stumble and fall. Confused, Kagome thought, Oof! The old woman's clothes must've gotten drenched… it's the only possible reason for her increase in weight. Or maybe she picked up a few rocks… twenty-pounds worth of rocks…

Forcing herself to focus on the dangerous task at hand, Kagome steadily finished her way across, her legs and arms screaming their pain to her.

Feet finally reaching the bank on the other side of the river, Kagome let out a huge sigh, setting the old woman on the ground gently. Closing her eyes in relief, she turned to the old woman. "We made it…"

But the old woman was not there. In her place stood a younger, taller woman, a motherly air about her. Her long, billowing kimono flowed gently around her, although there was no wind. She held herself regally, and her kind eyes sparkled with hidden power. This was no ordinary woman; in fact, she was not a woman at all. She was the goddess Hera, Queen of Olympus, wife of Zeus.

After a moment's hesitation, Kagome remembered herself and dropped to a low bow. "Lady Hera…"

With a soft smile, Hera walked gracefully to Kagome, placing a gentle hand on her head. "Kagome, you have proven yourself worthy for your quest."

"You were testing me, Lady Hera?" Kagome asked, making sure to keep her voice respectful.

"Yes, and you passed with flying colors," replied Hera. "You have proven yourself kind, wise, brave and courageous, among other things. Because of this, you have my blessing and what little assistance I can offer."

With another low bow, Kagome said, "Thank you, Lady Hera. It is much appreciated."

Hera paused then, as if sensing something, and chuckled quietly. "It seems that your companion has discovered your absence. I think it would be best if we called him here before he escapes, don't you?"

Before Kagome could respond, Hera closed her eyes for a moment, concentrating on her task. Opening her eyes, a mischievous glint in them, she said, "There. That should get his attention."

Confused, Kagome was about to ask Hera's meaning, but was distracted by a glowing, moving ball of light in the sky. Or, at least, that's what it seemed to be to Kagome. But, as it came closer, Kagome realized it was the same as the transportation "ball of light" that Sesshomaru had used to escape them when Inuyasha chopped his arm off with Tetsusaiga.

The ball of light alighted on the ground before them and slowly flickered away, revealing the tall, handsome youkai lord within.

With an exasperated sigh, Sesshomaru growled, "Hera, was that absolutely necessary?"

"Ungrateful pup. It might save your life one day," Hera said, smiling a knowing smile and winking at Kagome.

"Why? You know I am capable of doing it on my own," Sesshomaru said haughtily. Gazing at the bedraggled miko, a look of disgust on his face, he said, "Is there any real reason you brought me here, Hera?"

Nodding, Hera said, "The time has come to reveal the true nature of your quest."

With a quiet groan, Kagome muttered, "Just my luck."

A smile on her lips at Kagome's comment, Hera continued. "To find the one who would force the world into darkness, you have to complete five tasks. Each task shall bring you a step closer to whom and where this evil one lurks."

Scoffing, Sesshomaru said, "I have no need of your help, Hera."

Frowning, Kagome said, "And how exactly do you plan on doing it, Lord Sesshomaru? Neither you nor I have any idea of who this evil is."

With a haughty sniff, Sesshomaru said, "Simple. I'd just kill all the humans. They're hopeless, haughty weaklings who only strive for what is not theirs. It would be like killed two birds with one stone."

Before Kagome could speak her outrage, Hera sighed. "That, my dear Sesshomaru, is why you were chosen for this task. It's a pity you choose such a hard way to learn. Your father was so quick to see the truth."

"Do not speak of my father to me," growled Sesshomaru. "You know nothing of him."

"No?" asked Hera speculatively but, glancing at Kagome, said, "Maybe it is best that we not speak of your family now."

Clearing her throat, for appearance's sake only, she continued. "As I was saying, your first task is to kill the Gorgon, Medusa."

With a bark of laughter, Sesshomaru said, "Is that all? Please. What a waste of my time."

A mischievous smile once again alighting on her lips, Hera shrugged. "If you say so. But remember, self-righteous pup, Fate is against you. It might not be what you expect."

Turning to Kagome, Hera smiled. With a graceful snap of her fingers, a bow and quiver appeared in the air before her. "For you, Kagome. A gift from Artemis."

With a gasp, Kagome took the gift, handling it with as much care as she could. With wide eyes, gently sliding her hand over the delicate carvings on the silver bow, she whispered, "The goddess's very bow…"

"Think of it as a loan," chuckled Hera. "For, although Artemis gave it willingly, I do believe she'll miss it."

With a nod, Kagome smiled. "If you do not mind, I ask that you send her my thanks. I do not think my prayers will suffice for such a precious gift."

"Of course, beloved miko." With a nod, Hera began disappearing in a cloud of sparkling mist. "Now I shall let you continue on your quest. But beware: time is slowly slipping away. Before you know it, the hour of doom will have arrived."

"Nice exit," muttered Kagome, gazing at the sparkling air where Hera had stood a minute ago.

"It's a waste of power and energy," Sesshomaru said, a frown on his lips. With a shake of his head, he turned. "Quit gaping, human; you're wasting time."

Rolling her eyes, Kagome followed Sesshomaru, Artemis's bow in hand. Eyes wandering to his back, Kagome frowned. Wait…something's different here. Let's see…armor, bow, two swords, quiver, long, flowing hair…wait…eyes widening, Kagome skeptically thought, bow and quiver?

"Human, cease staring at me. Must I tell you every hour of this wretched quest?" When no reply came, and the miko did not stop her actions, Sesshomaru turned, growling. Taking in the woman's shock, he rumbled, "What is it now?"

Startled out of her surprise, Kagome said, "You carry a bow and quiver upon your back. Were they meant for me?"

Eyebrow raised, Sesshomaru huffed. "How dare you suggest that I would collect supplies for you. This bow and quiver is meant for me."

Covering a laugh, Kagome said, "You? Using a bow and arrow?"

Eyes narrowing, Sesshomaru said, "Who do you think you are laughing at, human?"

Kagome coughed, vainly trying to conceal her bad case of giggles. "No, you are mistaken, Lord Sesshomaru. I'm not laughing at you, just at the thought of you wielding a bow and arrow. I've only seen you using swords and your own abilities while fighting."

"Do you doubt my abilities to use such a weapon?" Sesshomaru snarled.

Before Kagome could answer, Sesshomaru had already pulled an arrow from his quiver and, bow drawn tight, sent it flying, moving faster than Kagome's mind could comprehend. In a split second, the arrow hit a large oak tree a few hundred yards away, and the force of the hit caused the tree to groan as a deep crack formed in its trunk.

Mouth open, Kagome gazed towards the embedded arrow, only to realize Sesshomaru was already walking away, a smug smirk on his face. Frowning at his attitude, she sighed, racing to catch up. So he can hit a tree…big deal. Yet, even as she thought this, she turned back to look at the injured oak tree, unable to suppress the surprise at Sesshomaru's skill.

Turning her attention back to the youkai lord, she let out a cry of dismay to find that he was just a speck in the forest. Muttering under her breath, she began running, in order to catch up with him.

As the sounds of her footsteps faded, the oak tree sounded out one, final groan as the crack grew, until the tree split in half, the trunk falling in separate directions. And with it fell the arrow, whose tip pierced the body of a now-dead butterfly.

Night soon fell, and Sesshomaru eventually slowed his pace, the miko still far behind. When the miko finally caught up, her breath ragged, he stopped and turned to look at her. Taking in the scratches that covered her arms and legs, the sweat that plastered her hair to her face, and the limp in her walk, Sesshomaru smirked. The pace and path I have chosen should have put the foolish human in her place.

But, as soon as Kagome got close enough, she glared at him and, between gasps, said, "You…really…are…an…ass…"

Taken aback by her vulgar language, Sesshomaru snarled. "How dare you—"

Holding her hand up, still trying to catch her breath, Kagome interrupted. "Wait…I'm…not…done. I know…what you're trying to do. But…let me tell you something, mister…it won't work. You can try to dissuade me from continuing, make me give up…but I won't. I'll keep going. This is my task…if I fail, the world's only hope is you. And right now…it's not very hopeful."

"Foolish human!" Sesshomaru growled, voice colder than usual. "Do you think I need your help or want to help you? I don't. If I could, I would take your life for such insolence. But such an action would cost me my life, for you are protected by the gods. And if I die, I leave my lands to greedy, power-hungry fools who would bring it to ruin. They are my father's legacy, and I am it's protector. I won't let that happen."

"I am also trying to protect something your father left behind: his son, and your half-brother, Inuyasha." With a sigh, Kagome continued softly, "Can't we just work together, Sesshomaru? If not for my sake, than for your father's?"

"Don't speak of my father, human. You soil him with your imperfection." With that, Sesshomaru turned and continued walking, the darkness consuming him.

Knees giving in, Kagome crumpled to the ground, feeling the chill of hopelessness fill her soul. He may not need me…but I need him.

There, in the darkness, came a chuckle, light as the tinkling of bells, but darkened with malice. "Poor Kagome. Will no one come to your aid when you need it the most? How unfortunate."

Tears prickling her eyes, Kagome tried to ignore the voice of Fate. But Fate's voice seemed to come from the very air itself, reverberating within Kagome's bones, echoing in her mind. "Alone forever. That is your destiny, that is your fate. You who long for love; yours shall be most tragic."

Over and over the words were spoken, voicing Kagome's very fears. Unable to stop them, to stop hearing it, Kagome became overwhelmed to the point of almost breaking. In an uncontrollable fit of terror, her powers were unleashed, exploding from her, chasing the darkness away for miles on end.

But, although surrounded by the pure light of her powers, she was unable to chase the darkness of fear from her heart, and its reach tightened painfully around her throat. Tears poured down her cheeks as torrents of power was unleashed from her, yet she was unable to see or hear anything except for the echo of Fate's curse upon her.

A few miles away, the miko's power finally reached a certain daiyoukai, who was bathed in its soothing warmth, coming to no harm as it flowed up, over and around him, caressing him gently. It…doesn't hurt… he thought, amazed, as he was slowly drawn back to the miko. But how?

A few minutes later, he finally came to the source of the pure, comforting light of power. But, though she emanated light, the miko seemed to be shrouded in darkness, her eyes void except for pure, unadulterated terror. And, upon seeing this, a sickening dread came upon him, for he knew that his cruel actions were the source of her suffering.

Yes, it was true he wanted to hurt her, hurt her for her insolence and stupidity…but when he saw the proud, brave miko succumb to this… Against all of his nature, against all that he stood for, he stepped closer to the miko and extended his hand. "Miko…"

With a start, Kagome looked up, all fear vanishing from her. Staring into his eyes, trapped in his burning gaze, she saw something kindling within the amber fires: care. And it was that small glimpse of kindness that all of Kagome's hopes returned, even stronger than before.

Realizing she was staring, she blushed and hastily trying to wipe her tears away, as she slowly sealed her power back up. When she was finished, all that was left was the darkness of the night, the light of the moon, and a proud, haughty youkai, hand still extended out towards her.

Taking Sesshomaru's hand, Kagome allowed him to pull her to a standing position. There they stood, gazing into each other's eyes, caught up in the other's emotions.

Finally, with a slow, deliberate blink, Sesshomaru stepped away, taking his hand from her grasp. Turning, he said, "If you are quite finished displaying your weak emotions, I'd like to continue on."

Glaring at Sesshomaru's back, completely exasperated, Kagome was just about to say something unladylike, when Sesshomaru called out, "There's a better area up ahead for us to camp for the night."

With a smile, Kagome released all her anger with a small sigh. Smile still upon her lips, she began walking, as tears anew began to stream down her cheeks. But this time, she did not cry because of a tortured heart, full of fear and anguish; rather, it was because of a heart near to overflowing with hope, and the source of its joy was daiyoukai that walked ahead.

Yay, I finally got another chapter up. Jeez, this story is a lot harder than I thought it would be. It's a lot more researching than I thought, that's for sure. Anyway, sorry it's moving along so slowly… but, hopefully, it will begin to pick up next chapter. I hope.

Oh, and I made Sesshomaru able to use a bow and arrow because...well...he is royalty. They did learn to weild all sorts of weapons for all sorts of different circumstances. Just in case you were wondering. So...yeah. Okay. Laters.

I do not own Inuyasha.