DISCLAIMER: I don't own Inuyasha. I'm just a fan of the show. All rights to the character belong to its creator Rumiko Takahashi.

NOTE: Please remember that all italicized paragraphs at the beginning of the chapters refer to past events. That's how many chapters in this story will begin.

CHAPTER 9: THE BOND BETWEEN THEM

Kagome pressed her lips together and stared down pitifully at the midnight black hair draped across her lap. Her big sister Kikyo burst into her bedroom nearly an hour ago to vocalize her frustrations. Her boyfriend of five years had been unfaithful to her and she was heartbroken over him. Kagome was sitting upon her bed studying when she walking in with tears streaming down her face. She dropped to her knees and pressed her face into Kagome's lap crying hysterically.

"I can't believe him! Five years! Five years of my life down the drain just like that! How could he do that?"

"I don't know. I always thought Izumo was crazy about you."

"So did I. Apparently I was wrong. If he really cared about me he wouldn't have cheated."

Kagome shook her head. "Are you sure it was Tsubaki?"

Kikyo lifted her head from Kagome's lap and glared at her. Her lips trembled as tears continued to leak from her eyes. She wiped at them with the sleeve of her shirt. "She's my best friend Kagome and has been since we were ten years old. I'd know her face from anywhere. It was her rolling around in bed with my boyfriend."

"I'm so sorry."

"So am I! If I had any brains I would've known they were doing each other. The man I love...the man I wanted to marry...naked...in bed with my...best friend. How could they do that to me? How could the two most important people in my life betray me?"

Kagome wiped away her sister's tears and sent her an apologetic smile. "I don't know Kik. You and Izumo have been together forever and it's crazy that he and Tsu would even do something so hurtful to you."

Kikyo nodded as her eyes fluttered wildly. "I can't get the image of them out of my head. Every time I close my eyes I see them sweating and writhing without a care in the world. Every grunt...every pant...the two of them...rolling and bouncing against each other...sharing things Zumo swore he'd only share with me. He made love...to someone."

Kagome eyes grew large as she gazed down at her pink-faced sister. "Kikyo? Are you?"

Said girl rolled her eyes at her younger sibling. "I'm nearly 24 years old Kagome. Of course I'm not a virgin."

"Really?"

"Yes."

"I didn't know."

"I didn't tell you."

"Izumo?"

"Do you even have to ask?" Kikyo questioned before folding her arms under her breasts. "I wish I hadn't now."

"How old were you?"

Kikyo's rosy cheeks darkened with a mysterious blush. "Why do you wanna know? Got somebody in mind?" She giggled.

Kagome's blushed hotly and shook her head. "Just curious."

"I was 20."

"So it wasn't that long ago."

Kikyo nodded. "It was a conscious decision. He and I both agreed to wait till we were ready. After two years it just happened. He was my first and I was his."

"How...was...it?"

"I am not having this conversation with you, little sister."

"Don't start with that little sister crap."

"You're 16 Kagome."

"So!"

"So I'm not trying to have sex."

"Good! You're too young. Sex should be between consenting adults. Not children."

Kagome growled and glared at her sister. "I'm not a little girl! I'm gonna be 17 next month."

"And I'll be 24 this month."

"Kikyo?"

"No. You're my sweet, innocent little sister and I wanna keep you that way."

"Who says I'm innocent?"

"You are."

"I almost had sex before."

Kikyo's eyes nearly bulged out of her head as she stared at the younger girl in disbelief. Her situation with Izumo was entirely forgotten in light of Kagome's confession. "Almost? What? You're not even dating anybody."

"I never said I wasn't dating anybody."

"You're not dating anybody. I've met all your boyfriends. Please tell me you didn't randomly hook up with a guy for sex."

"No! I don't hook up with guys. I don't hook up with anybody."

"Then who did you almost have sex with?"

"This guy."

"Who is he?"

"You don't know him."

"How do you know?"

"Trust me. You don't."

Kikyo shook her head before removing her aching knees from the floor to sit next to her sister. She couldn't believe that her innocent little sister was keeping secrets from her and about sex no less. The girl always talked to her about relationships and guys she had crushes on. The fact that she was being tight-lipped about something as huge as sex had Kikyo worried. There was something she didn't want her to know. It was time to officially get all up in her business whether she wanted her to or not.

"Kay, I'm gonna ask you some questions and I expect you to be totally honest with me."

"I don't have to talk about this with you Kikyo."

"Would you rather talk to Mom?"

Kagome shook her head.

"I didn't think so."

"You've got a lot of nerve Kik. You wouldn't utter a word when I asked about you and Izumo but you want me to talk about my non-existent sex life."

"The fact that you're being secretive about him has raised a million flags already. What don't you want me to know about him?"

"I just don't wanna talk about him with you."

"That's not a reason Kagome."

"We were talking about Izumo, you and Tsubaki. How did this conversation get turned around on me?"

"Because little birdie, you wanted to know about Izumo and my sex life. You wouldn't be asking about it unless you were planning something yourself. Who is he?"

"Just some guy."

"You almost lost your virginity to some random guy? Somebody who doesn't mean anything to you?"

"What if I did?"

"You're lying Kagome! This person isn't just some random guy. If you're willing to lie to my face and keep secrets, he must be bad news."

"No he's not!"

"What do you expect me to believe?"

"I expect you not to question me about my personal life."

"Kagome you've always been honest with me. The fact that you've kept this mysterious person a secret for God knows how long is mind-boggling. I'm worried about you."

"You're getting worked for nothing. Inuyasha's a nice man."

Kikyo arched a furrowing brow. "Who? Isn't that your boss?"

Kagome blushed furiously and looked away from her older sister. It was too late to take it back now. She'd just blurted out the very thing she didn't wanna talk about. Kikyo was gonna grill her like crazy for sure.

"Oh my God! You're fooling around with your boss?"

"No!" Kagome shrieked before meeting Kikyo's questioning eyes.

"Yes you are. Are you insane?"

"I'm not fooling around with anybody and he's not my boss his sister is."

"What difference does it make?"

"A lot. I work for his sister not him."

"Oh you're working for him alright."

"There's nothing going on between us. I babysit his young son. That's it."

"WHAT?"

"Could you dial it back a bit Kikyo? The whole neighborhood doesn't need to know."

"No I can't! A grown man and a child? Kagome? What are you thinking?"

"I knew you'd go hysterical. That's why I didn't wanna say anything about it."

"Hysterical doesn't even begin to cover what I'm feeling at this moment. How old is this guy?"

"Why does it matter? You'll just keep yelling at me."

"KAGOME!"

"He's 24."

Kikyo rolled her eyes and shook Kagome by the shoulders. "You're dating a guy my age!"

"I'm not dating him! How many times must I say that to you?"

"You're not dating him but you were gonna sleep with him? That's not any better."

"Stop forming thoughts and ideas about someone you know nothing about!"

"I know a man chasing after a 16 year old has only one thing on his mind."

"He's not chasing after me. It's I who's been pursuing him!"

"WHY?"

"BECAUSE I LOVE HIM!"

Kikyo gasped and placed a hand over her heart. Her eyes widened in shock. Her mouth opened and closed repeatedly as words refused to spring from her lips. Her only sister stared back at her unashamedly. Her feelings were clearly written upon her face. The girl couldn't mask her emotions if she tried. She never could.

"Kagome?"

She shook her head. "It's doesn't matter. He doesn't have any feelings for me."

Kikyo squeezed her hand. "Are you sure?"

"He doesn't."

"If there's nothing going on between the two of you, how did you guys nearly have sex?"

Kagome pressed her lips together and gazed down at her and her sister's joined hands. She hadn't talked about what happened with Inuyasha since the night he humiliated her in his bedroom. Just thinking of it now left a bittersweet taste in her mouth. He turned her away after awakening feelings inside her body she never knew existed.

"I think I fell in love with him the moment I laid eyes upon him."

"Gorgeous?"

"Very. He's the most gorgeous thing I've ever seen. Hair like twilight and eyes like shining pools of honey."

"Demon?"

"Hanyou."

"Really?"

She nodded. "He's mischievous and impulsive with a temper out of this world."

"Sounds like a great catch." Kikyo replied sarcastically.

"I know he doesn't sound too appealing but he's really a great guy."

"If you say so."

"He is. The tough exterior is just a front. He's a very good man."

"Well I suppose there's something that attracted you to him."

"He's very good to look at too. I can't deny that but there's something else."

"Do tell."

"Something happened to me when I met him. When I shook his hand it was like tripping a livewire."

"Is that right?"

She nodded. "And when I looked into his eyes my heart did funny things."

"Horny much?"

"I'm serious Kik. Something invisible pulled me towards him. I couldn't see it but I swear on my life I felt it and I ain't ever experienced anything like it before."

"Maybe it was your miko aura reacting to his demonic blood."

"It wasn't that."

"How do you know? You're not skilled in detecting auras."

"I know what I felt. My aura didn't react to him like it does to Shippo."

"Shippo's a full blooded demon child. Your guy is an adult half demon that you're obviously sexually attracted to."

Kagome flushed prettily unable to deny the truth of her sister's words.

"Judging by your silly smile it's safe to say I'm correct."

"Okay. I was attracted to him, very attracted to him. I'd never met anybody like him. He's strong and protective and I just love his little boy to pieces."

"How old is he?"

"Six almost seven."

"His mom?"

"Passed away after giving birth to him."

"Oh wow. That's really sad."

"Isn't it. Poor little guy doesn't have a mom."

"Are you hoping to take up the position?"

"There's nothing going on between his father and me. There never was."

"Then help me understand what caused the shift in your friendship."

"I developed feelings for him the day we met. The attraction was instant. The more time I spent around him the stronger my feelings became. He knew how I felt about him. I kept it no secret but he turned me down."

"You pursued him?"

"Yes, and I'm ashamed to admit it but I did. I fell in love with him. I fell hard and I fell fast. There wasn't anything about him I didn't like. His son pulling on my heartstrings didn't help either. I love him as much as I do his dad."

"Oh Kagome. It must've been difficult to be around him when you felt so strongly about him."

"You have no idea."

"Does he have a girlfriend?"

"No and he didn't seem to be pursuing one either. Sometimes, I would catch him staring at me. He didn't think I noticed but I did. If I said something to him about it, he'd just joke and pretend I imagined it. I stopped questioning him about it and just accepted the fact that he'd never return my feelings. Things were okay between us until those two guys attacked Kenshin me at the park."

"Kenshin? That's his little boy's name?"

"Yeah. We fought them off and Inuyasha came to save us."

"You told me about this already."

"I didn't tell you what happened after we went to his house."

"No you didn't."

"I passed out after he showed up at the park and came to some time later in his bedroom. I was disoriented for a few minutes but he assured me everything was okay. We were sitting in his bed very closely and he was touching my hands. He told me I must've been powerful if my touch could soothe a demon's soul. He was so close to me and he was touching me. I'd wanted him to touch me for so long and he finally was. So I kissed him."

"You initiated the kiss?"

Kagome nodded.

"That's so out of your character."

"I couldn't help it. I wanted him so much. So when he kissed me back things really got out of hand."

"Just kissing?"

Kagome's entire body broke out into an admirable sheen of pink. "We touched each other for a bit." She muttered.

"Where?"

"In places. I'm not gonna go into detail. We both were still fully dressed but enough had transpired between him and me. I supposed if I hadn't said anything we would've had sex."

"What did you say?"

"I told him to slow down because I'd never had sex before."

"Did he stop?"

"Yes. Then he yelled at me and pulled me from his bed."

"Did he hurt you?"

"Not physically but he did make sure I knew we wouldn't have a sexual relationship. In his eyes I was a little girl. Little girls don't do anything for guys like him."

"He broke your heart." Kikyo whispered sympathetically.

Kagome nodded as she tried to force away the bitter feeling in her chest. That day was the single most memorable day of her life. Being kissed and held by the man of her dreams. In her mind she'd lost her virginity to him months ago. In reality she never really mattered to him. Thinking about it now was still painful even after they tried to find their way back to friendship.

"He may never admit it, but I think he was attracted to me too."

"You think so?"

"Why else would he kiss me back? He wasn't drunk. I didn't ask him to touch me. I did initiate the kissing but he initiated everything else. If I hadn't told him to slow down, I'm certain we would be lovers."

"And you'd probably be pregnant by now."

"That's not necessarily true."

"Did you have proper protection?"

She blushed furiously and shook her head. "No I didn't mother hen."

Kikyo giggled. "Mother hen's trying to make sure her little chickadee doesn't get herself involved in something she's not ready for."

"If you say so."

"Don't you wanna have children with the person you'll spend the rest of your life with?"

Kagome nodded.

"Don't you wanna be married to him?"

She nodded again.

"And you want him to be certain of his feelings for you."

Kagome's eyes fluttered wearily before releasing a long sigh. "It's just hard Kikyo. I love him so much. I'll never love another man the way I love him."

"Yes you will."

"I won't." She muttered truthfully.

"You're sixteen Kagome. There's so much of life you've yet to live. Time will pass and you'll meet another guy. You'll fall in love again."

"That'll be difficult if I'm still hanging around Inuyasha."

"Perhaps it's time for you to find another job."

She shook her head frantically. "I can't do that."

Kikyo eyes her strangely. "Yes you can."

"I can't."

"Why?"

"Because I can't." She replied refusing to mention the promise she'd made to Kenshin's mother as a child. She had a job to finish and she'd make sure it was done before she walked out of Kenshin and his father's life.

"You're setting yourself up for more heartache by staying there Kagome."

"I'm not gonna leave."

"I don't want him to hurt you anymore than he already has."

"I'm not gonna quit my job. So please stop asking me to."

"As long as you know what you're doing."

"I do."

Kikyo stood up to her full height and stretched lazily. She eyed her younger sister with affectionate eyes. She'd grown quite a bit since the last time she'd seen her. They were nearly the same height now. Kagome's frame was now as curvy as her own. Her gaze fell to her sister's bare legs. They were larger than her own.

"When did you get so womanly?"

"Huh?"

"You heard me." She placed both of her hands on Kagome's hips. "Look at these."

"Kikyo?"

"You've got Higurashi hips! Men go crazy for Higurashi hips!"

"You've lost your mind. Haven't you?"

"Don't bother denying it Kagome. You probably gave your boss a heart attack with these things."

Kagome shook her head as her face exploded with mirth.

"And look at those boobies. You've got bigger tits than me."

"And you have bigger feet."

"You little twit."

The two girls wrestled each other to the bed tickling and pillow fighting as if they were both little children. When they needed a time out they'd stop to catch their breath. Then they start all over again. When they'd had enough both lay sprawled onto their backs breathing heavily and sharing silly grins.

"That was fun little sister."

Kagome nodded.

Kikyo emerged from her sister's bed. Talking with her sister was an eye-opening experience. It took her mind off her own problems. Now, images were filling her head again. She reached for the door knob.

"Where are you going?"

"I need a drink."

"Don't Kik! Stay here. You can bunk with me."

"That's really sweet of you Kay but I need something to take my mind off Izumo and Tsubaki."

"The pain will still be there Kikyo. Stay here. I don't mind if you cry on my shoulder."

"I've done enough crying over them and on you. You're the best Kay. I love you to pieces, but I need a drink, badly. I need to give my mind a break."

"Kikyo?"

She silenced her sister with a hand to her mouth before pulling her into a warm embrace. A kiss was placed to her temple and then she was out of the room.

The sound of screeching tires drew Kagome to her bedroom window and she watched worriedly as her sister's car drove away into the black of night.

The squeak of tires moved hurriedly across the linoleum floor. Lights brightened from one end of the hallway to the next. Voices. Voices boomed heatedly around the room. They were arguing. These voices were arguing and he had no idea what about. Everything was too loud...Too bright...Too Painful.

Where am I?

My head…It's like somebody hacking into my skull.

My body's on fire.

I need help.

Tetsusaiga.

Where's Tetsusaiga?

I need my Tetsusaiga.

Eyes. Brown eyes. Brown eyes swam through his muddled brain. Black hair...Wavy black hair framing an innocently beautiful face. Heart shaped lips pressing urgently against his. He groaned as images exploded inside his head. Now wasn't the time to get a hard on. He still hadn't figured out where he was.

His eyes fluttered behind closed lids as they struggled to open. His hands were boulders and felt too heavy. His legs were steel as they refused to move. Every limb was stiff with no signs of life. As if that wasn't bad enough, he couldn't smell anything. It was like he was human which didn't make any sense because the new moon was still weeks away.

The sound of an enraged female caught his attention and his heart thundered wildly at her voice. The crazy wench would be here, wherever here is. She'd follow him anywhere. If anybody could tell him why he was in so much pain it would be her.

Kagome?

He was too weak to get to her. It felt like he was falling into an abyss. His head was throbbing at full force and something was attacking his breathing. The darkness was coming again and he was too weak to escape it. Feelings of helplessness and utter despair overwhelmed him again and he slipped into the blackness once more with her name falling from his closed lips.

Kagome.

Kagome.

Ka…go…me.

Ka…go…me.

Kagome.

Don't…go!

Wait…for…me!

Please!

Kagome.

"You can't operate on him Dr. Zunada!"

"I appreciate your concern Ms. Higurashi but it's not needed."

"Doctor please! You can't operate on him. You'll kill him!"

"Calm yourself young lady! I've operated on demons hundreds of times. I assure you there's nothing to worry about."

"Inuyasha's a half demon. If he loses any more blood it may awaken his youkai."

"That won't happen. He's currently in his human form."

"But it's not permanent. He's only in that state because I accidentally purified him. If you just wait until his sword gets here everything will be okay."

"I have a patient in ICU who may bleed to death and you want me to wait until his sword gets here?"

"I swear to you it'll help."

"I can't do that Ms. Higurashi. Now, if you'll excuse me."

"I won't let you operate on him!"

"Are you his wife?"

Kagome shook her head.

"Sister?"

"No I'm not."

"Mother?"

"No."

"Then what are you?"

The sound of intimidating steps interrupted the conversation between Kagome and Dr. Zunada. They both watched as a tall figure entered the waiting area. The sound of his leather shoes stopped abruptly as his eyes fell on the startled pair. Icy golden pupils glared into alarmed brown ones. His nostrils flared disgustingly until a mop of black peered behind his shoulder.

"She's nobody." He replied with a death glare in Kagome's direction.

"You stay away from him!"

"You don't order me around human filth."

"Stay away from him! I mean it! If you hurt him again…

"You'll what? Your little purification tricks won't work on a demon of my caliber."

"I'm calling security."

"That won't be necessary doctor." The tall demon spoke authoritatively. "You have my permission to operate."

Dr. Zunada arched a brow at the demon. "And who might you be?"

"Inuyasha's brother."

Kagome gasped. "Oh my God! Are you kidding me? Brother since when?"

The black haired demon behind Sesshomaru chose that moment to emerge from his shadow. "Are you denying the fact that they're brothers? Any stranger would notice the family resemblance."

"I don't care about their resemblance to each other. You two bit whore!" Kagome spit angrily. "Inuyasha hasn't spoken or seen Sesshomaru in years. He hates him. I don't know what you two are trying to pull but I won't stand by quietly."

Kagura rolled her eyes and yawned uncaringly. "Doctor, you may proceed with the operation."

Dr. Zunada nodded curtly and Kagome's mouth fell open in shock.

"You can't operate on Inuyasha based off their admission. He and Sesshomaru hate each other."

"It doesn't matter. He's his next of kin."

"Dr. Zunada?"

"My patient is in dire condition. I can't wait any longer. You've wasted enough of my time."

The doctor turned to walk away and as he did so Kagome grabbed at his white jacket in a desperate attempt to halt him. He easily evaded her touch. His eyes glared at her as she shook her head.

"You can't operate on him. He'll die!"

"I understand your concern Ms. Higurashi but it's not needed. Your friend won't die. I promise you that."

"If he doesn't die he'll tear this place down and you as well."

Dr. Zunada waved off Kagome's concern and quickly exited the waiting area of the hospital. Kagome stared after him frantically contemplating running after him. Her heart pounded painfully inside her chest as she struggled internally. She felt completely powerless. Her eyelashes fluttered wildly and she clenched her fists in anger.

"Go home little girl." Kagura muttered from behind her. "You don't belong in the world of demons."

Kagome turned to face the wind witch. Her aura crashed dangerously against the two youkai before her. Her emotions were high strung and she was more than ready to release some steam.

"And you don't belong in Inuyasha's! I don't know what either of your motives are but I'll find out. If he doesn't make it out of this hospital alive I'll have your heads on a platter."

Kagura laughed evilly. "Are you threatening us, human? Are you seriously threatening a taiyoukai demon lord and a formidable wind demon? You must have a death wish."

"I don't make threats. I make promises. If anything happens to Inuyasha you'll be signing your own death warrants. That's a promise I can and will make good on."

Sesshomaru made an irritated sound in the back of his throat. "Then let the chips fall where they may. I've grown tired of your foolishness. Let's go Kagura."

"In a minute." She replied to him. "I wanna have a small talk with young Higurashi."

"No."

She frowned in confusion. "It'll only take a few minutes."

"I said no."

"Sessh?"

"Are you defying me?"

Kagura's eyes flashed irritably as her aura threatened to flare. Kagome rolled her eyes at the bickering couple and moved to walk away quietly. Before she could do so pale demon hands wrapped around her wrists tightly.

"Take your hands off me!" Kagome yelled angrily not the least bit intimidated by the older demon.

"What'll you do if I don't? Cry? Scream?"

"I'm hardly afraid of you."

Kagura tightened her grip on her Kagome's wrists. "I think it's time you learned your place human wench."

"I won't be learning it from you. Take your hands off me. Now!"

"Make me."

"I don't wanna hurt you but I will if you don't release me."

"Kagura that's enough!"

She snorted and blatantly ignored her husband's command. "I'm just having a little fun honey."

"You've had enough."

She answered him with frustrated growl angry for being denied a chance at human torture.

Kagome giggled smirking comically at the wind witch. It was obvious the woman wanted to defy her mate. It was absolutely hilarious. "I guess you'd better stand down unless you wanna get punished for disobeying your alpha. You know how dogs are."

Kagura glared at Kagome icily as her aura crackled. The presence of an angry wind sprang from Kagura's hands and whipped around Kagome's body. She smiled at the younger woman deliciously as her youkai roared inside of her body. The urge to snap her neck in two pieces had never been so strong. The atmosphere in the waiting area shifted dangerously. Hostile air spread around each occupant lifting hair, ruffling clothes and moving bodies. Yet, Kagura's hand remained fastened on Kagome's wrist. Her smile widened devilishly as her eyes swam up Kagome's face. Without a second thought she lifted her other hand to attack and as she did so white hot light engulfed her body.

Pure, whitish-pink light pulsated around Kagome's body and slammed into Kagura unexpectedly. Her feet was lifted from the floor and her body suspended high into the air before the brute force of Kagome's aura sent the frightened wind demon hurtling into the wall with a thump. Smoke erupted from the impact as every demon in the vicinity trembled in fear.

Kagome waved her hands together in a circular motion before stretching her arms wide. She waved her hands up and down and released a ragged breath. Seconds later the smoke began to disburse. A high pitched, distressed scream exploded to her right and her eyes moved frantically for the culprit. Lying flat on her back and clutching her chest was Kagura. She was trembling profusely as her body spazzed out of control.

"Sessh! Sessh! Help me!" She wailed in agony. Her entire body felt as if it was on fire.

"Are you okay?"

"Stay away from me!" Kagura shuddered in fear and pushed herself up, determined to get away from the young miko.

"I didn't mean to harm you but you wouldn't let me go."

"Sesshomaru! Help me!"

A thundering roar erupted amidst the fallen rubble and mere seconds later a clawed hand was around Kagome's neck. Bleeding red eyes glared at her as she was lifted from the floor. She was shaken like a ragdoll before angry growls exploded her ears.

She thrashed wildly within his hold, digging her nails into his skin in a desperate attempt to escape his clutches. But he was too strong. Her eyes fluttered wildly as she reached within herself to unleash her power. She had to try something if she wanted make it out of the hospital alive.

"OH MY GOD!"

Kagome's eyes moved from Sesshomaru to the left and noticed Sango standing in the entry way with a sheathed sword in her hand. Tetsusaiga. Her heart thumped like rock falling into water. Now that the sword was here she was even more determined to make sure Inuyasha was okay.

"Take your hands off her!"

"Stay out of this!" He growled at Sango.

Sango advanced in their direction and Kagome shook her head frantically. "Kagome?"

"He'll hurt the baby!"

Sango glanced down at her stomach briefly before staring at Kagome and her brother's brother.

"I don't want you to lose the baby."

"I don't want him to kill you."

"He won't!" Kagome gasped as her claws dug deeper in Sesshomaru's skin.

"Sessh! Please help me!" Kagura whimpered.

His eyes left Kagome's and fell upon his fallen mate. One hand was over her heart and the other upon her stomach. He could sense pure energy burning her insides. His momentary lapse in judgment caused his grip to weaken from Kagome's neck and in doing so she blasted her miko power straight through his chest. He landed with a clank on the ground next to his mate.

Angry growls emerged from his throat as poisonous saliva dripped from his lips burning the concrete floor. Sharp canine teeth protruded from his mouth before a long tongue swept past his lips hungrily. He eyed the young woman as his body began to shift to predator mode.

Kagome's eyes widened in her head as ragged breaths poured from her lips. Her heart was racing like a hundred gazelles. If Kagura hadn't called Sessh's name her windpipe would probably be crushed by now. She shifted her feet from left to right and crossed her arms in an X shape across her chest. She wasn't certain how much power she'd used but was certain she'd kill both of these demons if they stood in her way again.

"Sessh please! Please stop!" Kagura muttered. Her eyes moved about frantically. Her voice much weaker.

Sesshomaru continued growling as his eyes moved to his defenseless wife. Her skin had become extremely pale and she was close to losing consciousness. He was certain he could take the miko down but didn't wanna cause Kagura more harm. He scooped his injured spouse up into his arms and she pressed her face into his chest weeping sorely. His blood boiled like an inferno beneath his skin and he bit down into his bottom lip to clamp down his transformation. To know that a despicable human wench was capable of reducing his mate to tears….It was enough to burn every human on the earth to cinder. Now wasn't the time though. He needed to get his wife somewhere safe so he could tend to her properly.

"You got lucky today miko." His icy glare held her in place. "This is far from over. When we meet again, it'll be your funeral."

With a loud swoosh he and Kagura disappeared within a cloud. A round crystal-like ball floated away in the wake of their escape. Sango and Kagome watched in wonder as it floated away through a hole in the wall becoming a small speck in the distance. They were unsure how it happened but were grateful for their departure.

The two ladies turned toward each other and as they did so the lights throughout the hospital flicked on and off. Sango shifted closer to Kagome and grabbed her hand, linking their fingers together. An unsettling feeling settled in the pit of Kagome's stomach. She had a feeling things were about to go from bad to worse, especially if today's events were any indication.

The lights continued to flick on and off and did so repeatedly. Kagome pulled Sango closer to her until they were shoulder to shoulder. Loud sirens blared causing the ladies to release each other and cover their ears. Screams, yells and growls bounced off of the walls from the top of the building down to the core. Broken glass coated the floors as windows were impaled one after another. The foundation of the Youkai United shook as if an earthquake was passing through it. Something was happening. Something was being unleashed and Kagome was compelled to go after it.

"Are you okay?" Sango asked once the sirens stopped wailing.

Kagome nodded. "You?"

"I'm fine."

"The baby?"

"We're both okay Kagome. Are you sure you are though? Sesshomaru could've killed you."

"It takes more than Sesshomaru's poisonous claws to bring me down. I've got a mission to fulfill."

"I'm glad you're okay. When I walked through the entrance I figured you'd be with Inuyasha."

"As quick as we got to the hospital they took him away and placed him in an isolated room. He was in critical condition."

"Was he still in demon form?"

She nodded. "His body was so messed up and his brother wouldn't stop attacking him. He fought back but he just couldn't handle anymore." She pressed her lips together as her brows furrowed regretfully.

"What did you do?"

"I didn't mean to hurt him."

"What did you do?"

"I accidentally purified him."

"He became human. What's so bad about that?"

"The wounds he sustained in his youkai form didn't disappear. I was trying to save him. It didn't occur to me that things would blow up in my face."

"Where is he now?"

"In surgery. At least he was. You weren't here. So Sessh stepped in as his next of kin and gave Dr. Zunada the okay to operate."

Sango looked dumbfounded. "But I'm his power of attorney. Nothing should've taken place without my permission."

"Well, your brother's medical team said he was too damaged. Surgery was his only option."

"Dear Kami! I hope everything is okay."

The moment the words left her mouth the lights ceased flickering. They remained on and the sirens began to howl once more. Something was crashing against the walls. A frantic voice boomed over the intercom for youkai security. Before it went completely off recognizable growls roared so loud that the walls shook so hard and crumbled.

"Come on!" Kagome muttered before pulling Sango along with her.

"Where are we going?"

"Third floor."

"Do you think they operated yet?" Sango asked before releasing ragged breaths.

"I don't know. I hope not. Inuyasha's homicidal in youkai form. If they did operate I'm afraid for what condition he's in now."

"We need a plan Kagome. We can't just barge into the operation room."

"Watch me!"

"You can't be serious!"

"I have to help him Sango. I refuse to let anyone get in my way."

"And how do you intend to that? You can't purify everybody. You'll kill yourself in the process."

"He needs me Sango. I can't let him down."

"You're crazy."

"I know but it can't be helped."

"I love my brother to pieces but God knows he doesn't deserve you."

Kagome didn't reply. Instead she continued running with Sango until they made it to the third floor. They were met with complete and utter chaos when they reached their destination. Glass and piles of debris covered the floor. Doctors were running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Youkai and hanyou alike were screaming and running in terror. Something was causing them to go berserk.

Kagome easily pointed out Dr. Zunada across the hall. She quickly made her way over to him amongst the rubble and pulled Sango along with her. They had no problem getting pass youkai. One glance in her direction sent nearly everyone on the floor careening into the walls. Her eyebrows arched curiously as she announced herself to the unsuspecting youkai.

"Dr. Zunada?"

The red haired fire demon turned around at the mention of his name coming face to face with brunette human women. "Ms. Higurashi? What are you doing here?"

"This is Inuyasha's sister. We wanna know about his condition."

His eyes moved from Sango to Kagome warily. "You can't see him. I told you that earlier."

"I'm his sister and I say we can."

"Neither of you can see him."

Kagome released a frustrated breath and glared at the doctor. "Do you mind telling us why?"

"You've got eyes missy. Look around you. This place is in chaos. You shouldn't even be here. How did you get pass security?"

Sango growled at the doctor in annoyance. "We didn't see any security guards, just a hoard of ill demons running amuck. I wanna know where my brother is. So please tell me what's going on."

"The medical labs of the upper floors exploded and the waters have been contaminated."

"What?" Kagome screamed. "How did that happen?"

"How do you think?"

"If I knew I wouldn't be asking you."

"There's a rumor quickly spreading that it was done by a gang of humans."

"But this is a demon hospital. How could humans commit such a crime and go unnoticed? Youkai could easily sniff them out."

"You certainly know a lot about demons, Ms. Higurashi."

"I grew up with them."

"Do you poison them also?"

"That's it! I don't have to stand here and listen to you accuse me falsely. I didn't blow up those labs nor did I contaminate the waters. I wouldn't even know how to do something like that anyways."

Sango rolled her eyes at the arrogant demon. "She's a miko sir. Her powers aren't used for evil."

"Well she sure has all the demons running scared." His eyes ran up and down her body. "You might wanna scale back some of that pure power. Exhibiting such raw energy in a place crawling with demons is dangerous. You're drawing unwanted attention to yourself and by doing so placing others in harm's way."

She folded her arms under her breasts. "I don't mean to."

"If you can't control it then maybe you don't need to use it."

She shook her head and glared at him. "Can we see Inuyasha? Please."

"He's in isolation."

"We still wanna see him."

"You can't he's unstable."

Sango tapped Tetsusaiga. "We know. He needs his sword. It'll put his demon blood in check."

"We've locked him up in the ISO ward."

"Why?"

"He's taken down nearly 50 demons already. He's a danger to himself and anyone he comes in contact with."

"We need to see him Dr. Zunada. At least Kagome does. She knows how to calm him down when his blood becomes too much for him."

"Is that true Ms. Higurashi?"

Kagome's eyes moved from Dr. Zunada to Sango and back to the doctor. "Yes." She replied with uncertainty.

"I'm not supposed to let anyone visit him while he's in ISO, especially someone who isn't blood related."

"I am blood related." Sango growled for the umpteenth time.

"And you're also pregnant and human. There's no way I'm allowing you in a room with a homicidal demon."

"Then let Kagome see him. She knows how to handle him. She knows how to soothe him."

"I can't bend the rules for her. If she was blood related or even related by marriage, I'd be able to work something out."

Sango smiled knowingly and tapped Kagome's shoulder. "She's his mate."

Dr. Zunada frowned and Kagome gasped in shock. Of all the things Sango could've said she had to blurt out the biggest lie. As if the doctor wouldn't know whether or not she was telling the truth.

"Are you trying to deceive me human? This girl isn't mated to your brother. She's not even mated to a human. She's still a virgin."

Kagome's cheeks blushed furiously as her eyes settled on the demon doctor.

"I know that doctor. She's saving herself for marriage. She and my brother are getting married soon though."

Kagome's eyes nearly bulged out of her head as she listened to her friend lie to the doctor's face.

"As soon as all the plans are ready they're gonna have a big ceremony. Aren't you Kagome?"

Her mouth opened and closed in shock like a fish out of water. Sango's false admission left her speechless. She shook her head slowly because there was no way she trusted her voice right now.

Dr. Zunada eyed both women carefully. He was certain the marriage tale was completely fabricated but sensed they weren't lying about taming his patient's demon blood. For that reason alone he permitted the younger woman to see Inuyasha.

"Follow me."

Sango nodded and tugged at Kagome's arm.

"Why did you lie to him?" She whispered.

"Does it matter? It worked."

"I know. I still don't like it."

"Tough titties Kagome. I had to do something. You wanna see him. Don't you?"

"I just wish you didn't have to lie to get me there. What if it blows up in my face?"

"It won't."

"How do you know?"

"It's Inuyasha, Kagome. His smile is always a bit brighter when he sees you."

"I don't know about that." She mumbled.

"I do. Trust me. This'll work."

"What about Dr. Zunada?"

"Let me take care of him. You take care of my brother."

"Okay."

"Thank you."

"Sango?"

"Yes?"

"Please make sure nobody enters the room after I go in."

"You got it."

"Here we are ladies." Dr. Zunada announced once they made it to the locked room.

Sango placed the untransformed sword into Kagome's hand and squeezed her shoulder. "Be careful." She whispered into her ear.

Kagome nodded before moving to stand before the locked door.

"I hope you know what you're doing young lady." The doctor spoke looking directly into her eyes. "If this plan of yours backfires, you'll have nobody to blame but yourself."

The doctor swiped a card across the locked door and immediately it opened. He walked away with Sango trailing behind him and a horrified Kagome watched them slip away. She released a nervous breath and quietly entered the room. The door closed behind her locking with a loud clank. She turned around and gasped noisily. The room was completely dark and she hadn't noticed it until now. Her heart leapt anxiously inside her chest as she felt along the walls for support. An angry growl flew across the room and she stopped moving.

"Inuyasha?"

He answered her with another growl.

She swallowed a huge lump inside her throat. What have I gotten myself into?

He growled again but this time louder and harsher.

"Inuyasha? It's me…Kagome."

He roared and charged at her wildly. She didn't run because she couldn't see anything in the dark room. Her eyes swam from left to right searching for some form light. Any light would do. Vulnerable as she was at the moment she was left at his mercy.

Clawed hands grasped her waist and lifted her off her feet causing Tetsusaiga to crash onto the floor. She was flung hard onto a cold mattress with her hands pinned above her head. Seconds later her body was covered with his.

"Inuyasha? Please calm down. Please?"

He growled and ripped her shirt from her body.

Kagome's lips trembled at she shook in terror beneath him. "Come back to me Inuyasha." She whispered.

He continued growling as his hands settled on her chest again freeing her breasts from the cushiony fabric against her skin.

She gasped as her nipples hardened from the chilly air. If he touches me I'm a goner. I can't bring him under control if he makes me lose control. She pressed her lips together as he leaned down into her face and pressed his nose in the crook of her neck. With his knee he forced her legs apart and settled himself between them before growling into her skin.

"Come back to me Inuyasha. Please? Please don't stay this way." She whispered hating her body for reacting to his torture.

He brushed his nose against her neck and inhaled the lavender fragrance permeating her skin. She smelled like heaven and he longed desperately to be inside hers. His grip loosened a bit on her wrists as he shifted her body up and his face down until his head rested against her breasts. His tongue ran across his lips before attaching itself to her chilled skin. He howled in contentment with a satisfied rumble.

Kagome bit her lips to suppress an erotic moan as he completely released her hands. Her fingers automatically went to his thick silver mane as she held him to her chest. A demon hospital was the last place she wanted to lose her virginity in but she was in danger of doing so if she didn't get this horny hanyou off of her.

Her hands stroked his hair as she whispered words of warmth and appreciation to him. She wanted him comfortable and calm. She wanted him to know how much he meant to her.

"I love you Inuyasha. Let me help you. Please."

His mouth moved away from her skin with an audible smack as he pulled himself into a sitting position. He lifted her from her back and settled her into his lap with her back to his chest. His chin dropped over her shoulder and his clawed hands cupped her breasts.

She released a strangled breath and sighed sexily. "Oh Yasha. Please stop touching me that way." Her words a breathy whisper against his skin.

He snorted and began rocking her back and forth in his lap in an attempt to soothe her.

"Inuyasha?"

He snorted again and a huge smile slowly broke out onto her face. He was no longer growling which meant he was calming down. She pushed her back into his chest and rocked with him letting his demonic nature overwhelm her. Her hands reached up and tangled themselves in his hair and he sighed appreciatively. Ever so slowly her aura wrapped around his youkai caressing him with her warmth.

They moved as one like the waves blowing kisses in the night. Her fingers kneading his scalp. His claws dancing against her breasts, making shadowy figures across her heart. A pleasant tune spilled from his lips as white-hot pure energy moved over his skin sealing up the tattered wounds in his soul. His broken skin came together healing himself rapidly as his eyes shifted from crimson red to sunset gold. Long sharp fangs receded into his mouth and his normal hanyou aura pulsated around him.

She felt it all over her body when the changed occurred and she turned in his embrace and threw her arms around his neck. She pressed her face to his chest as tears of relief overwhelmed her. Inuyasha gathered her closer to him as she cried into his warm skin. His hands smoothed her loose hair down her back and pressed feather light kisses upon her shoulder.

"Are…you…okay…now?" She managed to ask in between sobs.

He nodded and she squeezed him tighter.

"I…love…you…Inuyasha."

He shuddered and slowly pulled her away to cup her cheek. "Say it again."

Her jaws reddened prettily as she shyly stared at his chest. "I love you."

A playful grin blossomed upon his mouth and he lifted her head to brush his lips with hers. The kiss wasn't hot nor was it sexy. It was warm and sweet and exactly what she needed and when it was over she gazed into his eyes.

"I love you as you are Inuyasha. Please don't ever forget that. If your demon blood ever gets out of control again, please don't forget that." Her voice cracked and she pressed her face into his neck.

"Okay. I'll stay a half demon a bit longer just for you."

"Thank you."

He eased her down onto the bed and cocooned himself around her. "Hold onto me a little longer." He whispered into her hair.

"I'll never let you go."

YAY! I've finally finished this chapter. Hope you guys and gals enjoyed it. I wonder who contaminated the water and exploded the medical labs...You'll never guess. I've got a few ideas for some short stories in the making. Not sure which characters I'll be using but I will keep my loyal reviewers updated.

I'm always tempted to go overboard when I put Inuyasha and Kagome in a dark room. Then I remember this story is rated "T" and have to scale it back a bit. I haven't forgotten about my other stories. When time permits. I'll deal with them. Anyways, if you've enjoyed reading this chapter, let me know by reviewing. Until next time….