Chapter 10- The calm before the storm
Kagome stirred from her slumber and reached over to the side of the bed half expectantly. "Not there," Kagome growled, getting up slowly. Her muscles were sore from her secret sword practices with Lloyd, if Sesshomaru found out about them he would surely stop them on the pretense of she shouldn't over exert herself. She walked to the other side of the room and looked out the window over the plains. It was Wednesday now, and they had been gathering forces as discreetly as they could. Sesshomaru had had armor outfitted for the two of them and every youkai who planned to battle. The two plains leaders chose all their warriors armor and their own to be purple, to match with their markings. But she hadn't been seeing much of Sesshomaru lately, since he was always working, and was lucky if she caught a glimpse of him as he slinked into their room at some late hour.
Kagome dressed into a kimono, randomly selecting one from her wardrobe, and grabbed the two swords. She carried a bow now as well and found with delight she could infuse her youkai energy into an arrow and hone its accuracy and boost its power. She had perfected the technique so well; she could pierce through fifty trees with one arrow now. Kagome walked down the hallway to the garden and found Lloyd tending to it. "Lady Kagome," Lloyd said respectfully and bowed. Kagome smiled, no matter how many times she told him to call her just Kagome he insisted on putting the acronym before her name. "I want to visit my friends Lloyd," Kagome said and Lloyd gave her a shocked expression.
"You...you want me to go with you?" Lloyd asked, obviously pleased, "have you informed Lord Sesshomaru of our whereabouts?" At this Kagome snorted, "He probably won't even know we're gone." Lloyd shuffled his feet uncertainly at the words of anger and said, "If...if my Lady wants to go now, I will not object." "Good," Kagome purred, "we'll take A-Un it'll be much faster." Lloyd trudged on after Kagome, feeling slightly ashamed for not trying to convince her otherwise. When they came to the stables a servant who'd been rubbing A-Un down turned towards them with a bow. "If m'lady wishes to ride A-Un, he is ready to go now," The servant muttered. "Thank you," Kagome said climbing onto A-Un. Lloyd followed suit soon after and A-Un took off.
"Excuse me for saying Lady Kagome," Lloyd braved after a few moments, "but I really do think Lord Sesshomaru would notice that his pregnant mate isn't home." Kagome pressed her lips together and said, "We'll see." She landed the dragon in a clearing in Kaede's village and was greeted instantaneously by Sango. "We've been so worried about you!" Sango yelled hugging her friend, "what's happened?" "We're preparing for an ambush," Kagome said trying to comb a hand through her hair, "an organization attacked the Plains Leaders and we found out where their hideout is recently. So we're going to attack them." "Where's Sesshomaru?" Sango asked and Kagome's eyes narrowed at the name.
"Working," Kagome grumbled, "he doesn't even ask if I would like to help. I truthfully haven't talked to him since Monday. Who knows when that youkai eats, and every time I visit him in his office he's buried in a stack of scrolls." "Lord Sesshomaru is just preoccupied right now Lady Kagome," Lloyd said not liking where this was headed. "Too preoccupied to deal with the woman he impregnated," Kagome muttered and Sango gasped. "You're... pregnant?" Sango asked and when Kagome smiled and nodded she said, "how far are you?" "Only about two weeks and a day," Kagome said, a light shining in her eye. "And you're still going to fight?" A familiar voice grumbled from above, "man, Sesshomaru's slipping." Kagome looked up to see Inuyasha sitting in a tree observing the both of them.
"And you didn't even tell him you were coming down here," Inuyasha seemed to marvel, "he's going to be very upset with you Kagome." He jumped down from the tree then and joined them in the shade. "Not that I care," Inuyasha said, "the more grief you cause him the better." "I am not causing him grief!" Kagome yelled, her eyes flashing. Inuyasha was quiet for a moment before saying, "I could've given you a child. I could've given you anything that bastard can." "Inuyasha don't," Kagome said and the awkward air was interrupted by Kirara landing in the clearing. "Sango!" Miroku yelled, him and Shippo jumping down, "I've got horrible news Kagome... is here?"
"Were you looking for me?" Kagome asked, tilting her head. "Yeah," Miroku said scratching the back of his neck, "me and the rest of the world." "I told you Lord Sesshomaru would notice your absence," Lloyd muttered, and Kagome glared at him. "Well," Miroku said a huge smile on his face, "seeing as Sesshomaru isn't here, this calls for old times!" He gave Kagome's butt a tender caress and she tensed. "Miroku...," Kagome growled, narrowing her eyes. "Good times huh!" Miroku said, steadily retreating by Sango. Sango turned and slapped him in the face and Miroku said, "Yeah, good times."
Kagome couldn't help but smile and soon all of them were laughing. "Oh!" Sango said turning to Miroku, "Kagome's with child!" Miroku gave a startled look and said, "Sesshomaru sure does work fast." Kagome blushed at the statement and a wizened voice chuckled behind them. "I knew it would happen soon," Kaede said joining them, "ye and Sesshomaru are very fond of each other. One can tell." Kagome smiled, and for a brief moment she regretted not telling Sesshomaru about her whereabouts. "Does your mom know?" Sango asked and Kagome shook her head. "I'll go tell her now!" Kagome purred, "Watch A-Un for me okay? Come on Lloyd!" Kagome ran off and Lloyd struggled to catch up with her.
Kagome jumped into the well when she reached it, and jumped out the other side once she'd gone through. She waited for Lloyd then and he jumped up to join her with wonder. Kagome pushed the newly fixed doors open and walked through. "Wow," Lloyd said in amazement as he looked around, "this place is incredible Kagome." Kagome smiled and walked towards the house. She opened the door and found her mom sitting at the table drinking coffee. "Kagome!" Her mom yelled hugging her, "I was just getting ready to leave for work! Rin's been awful hurt that you two haven't visited her, how've you been?"
"Well..." Kagome said, scratching the back of her neck, "I'm pregnant." Kagome's mom stood there for a moment before saying, "Congratulations darling. You're going to have to visit all the time now so I can see you the farther you get along." Kagome gave a sigh of relief that her mom didn't seem to be mad but winced when she asked, "Well, where's the father?" "Right here," A voice growled heavily. Kagome cringed and turned around to find Sesshomaru glaring at her hotly. "You left," Was all he said though, his eyes burning with an anger she'd never seen before.
"Oh dear," Kagome's mom muttered, "here let me give you two your privacy." She grabbed Lloyd's hand and they hurriedly went up the stairs. "Sesshomaru," Kagome muttered and another feral growl ripped loose from his throat. "Knowing the times we're facing you leave!" Sesshomaru finally yelled, "And you didn't even bother to inform me of it!" Kagome growled and said, "So what! I haven't even talked to you since Monday! You probably wouldn't have even paid me any mind!" "I would always listen to my mate!" Sesshomaru growled, clenching his fists, "Do you know how I felt, finally being rid of all that paper work and finding out you're not there!"
"Must feel something like waking up and going to sleep alone everyday," Kagome grumbled and Sesshomaru struggled to calm down. "You're upset with me," Sesshomaru finally said, his voice lowered. "Yeah I am," Kagome snorted, turning her head. "Kagome," Sesshomaru muttered, turning her head towards his, "I had to get that work done, I had fell too far behind and with the current crisis going on I couldn't have that. And then I had to gather the forces up, and make sure things were running smoothly. You worried me, when you left off like that. How am I supposed to protect you when I have to raise hell to find you?" Kagome sighed then and said, "You could've asked me to help." "And have my pregnant mate working?" Sesshomaru asked teasingly kissing her mark, "is it not bad enough I'm letting you fight?"
Kagome groaned and said out loud, "...I'm sorry if I worried you." Sesshomaru only gave a, "hnnnnnn," and licked the sensitive area of skin on her neck. "I suppose I can forgive you," Sesshomaru muttered, pushing Kagome back gently against the wall. He slowly slid his other hand up her kimono, before an ah-hem cut off his ministrations. "At least take it to a bedroom," Kagome's mom said a blush apparent on her and Lloyd's face, "I have to go to work, I'm going to be late!" She ran off then and waved bye hurriedly before leaving. "I-if you two want to finish," Lloyd muttered, hurriedly exiting himself. "Your bedroom is upstairs right?" Sesshomaru asked his voice husky. "Yeah," Kagome said, and grabbing his hand began to lead him up there.
Xxxxxxxxxx Kagome's room – About an hour later xxxxxxxxxxxX
"How long has it been since we've done this?" Sesshomaru purred, caressing her back gingerly. "Sunday," Kagome muttered, her head lying on his chest. They sat in silence a while more before Kagome said, "We should be heading back." "Yeah," Sesshomaru agreed, although he didn't move. "Or we could just lie here all day," Kagome muttered and Sesshomaru chuckled. "I like that idea," Sesshomaru purred again and Kagome giggled. "I can imagine Rin's and Souta's face already," Kagome said teasing Sesshomaru, "this will be the first place they come looking for us. And they'll find us in a bad state of dress." "Hnnnnn," Sesshomaru said, caressing her arm now, "a little longer." Sesshomaru finally got up a little while later, and Kagome watched him with unhidden interest as he redressed.
"I wish m'love would've at least attempted to disguise her stares," Sesshomaru muttered after he'd finished dressing, "you made it very difficult not to bed you again." Kagome smiled and said, "You find that very difficult in the first place." "True," Sesshomaru purred, watching as she dressed now. Kagome had chosen to wear her school uniform much to Sesshomaru's dislike. "Why don't you like it Sessho?" Kagome asked, after feeling a flair of his emotion go across their bond. "You look under dressed in that get up," Sesshomaru mumbled and Kagome laughed and opted for a pair of jeans and a tee.
"If these get messed up the way the other ones did I'm going to have your head Sessho," Kagome warned. "I didn't know how to take it off," Sesshomaru said in his defense and Kagome stuck her tongue out at him. She sighed and said, "I wish I didn't leave my bag at the house. I could've packed some extra clothes." Kagome sighed. Sesshomaru didn't comment and Kagome headed down the stairs. She opened the door to find a blushing Lloyd on the other side. "A-are you finished Lady Kagome?" Lloyd asked, and Kagome laughed at his embarrassment. "Yes Lloyd," Kagome said, walking towards the well, "we're finished. Tell that slow poke to come on."
Lloyd bowed and walked into the house while Kagome went through the already open doors of the well. "Kagome wait," Sesshomaru said and she turned. "Hmmmmmmm?" Kagome asked and saw Sesshomaru holding the two swords and bow. "You forgot this," Sesshomaru said, giving her the weapons. "Oh, thanks," Kagome said putting them on. Sesshomaru had an air of nervousness about him, but before Kagome could question him about it he said, "Well, let's keep moving." He jumped into the well, and Kagome followed eagerly. They jumped out the other side and found her friends staring wide-eyed.
"Good grief," Miroku said, wiping sweat from his face, "I thought Sesshomaru was about to kill you, the way he stormed into that well." "I would never harm Kagome," Sesshomaru said, his eyes narrowing. "Right," Miroku said, habitually going behind Sango, "of course not... my bad..." "Me and Miroku have decided we're going to help you against this organization," Sango announced after shaking her head at Miroku. Inuyasha snorted his disapproval and Shippo sighed. "They said I'm not old enough to help," Shippo whined and Kagome laughed. "No you're not old enough," Kagome purred, kissing the little kitsune on the forehead.
Shippo began to throw a tantrum at being denied again, and Kagome picked him up. Sesshomaru watched Kagome's motherly affection towards the kit with a warmth and Kagome felt it go across their bond and turned her head towards him. She flashed him a smile, and walked off trying to soothe the upset kit. "She's going to make a great mom isn't she Sesshomaru?" Miroku said, patting the youkai on the back. Sesshomaru could tell by the jumpy manner of the human he expected to be hit but Sesshomaru only said, "Yes, she will make a great mom for our child." Miroku seemed partially stunned that Sesshomaru was being so good-natured towards him when Inuyasha growled.
"You better treat her and that child right!" Inuyasha grumbled, glaring at Sesshomaru. "I'll treat her better than you ever did," Sesshomaru said in a cold voice, "and my child doubly so." Inuyasha was silent before saying, "Yeah whatever. Just as long as you know the deal. Cause the minute you screw up, will be the minute you lose her." Sesshomaru growled at the threat and said, "You had your chance. She's mine now." Sesshomaru walked away then, looking for Kagome. He found her, rocking a now sleeping Shippo back and forth next to a tree in Kaede's village. She told him to ssshhhhh, and he crept up to her silently. "I'm going to go put him in Kaede's cabin," Kagome whispered and he nodded.
Kagome got up and placed Shippo on a mat in there and rejoined Sesshomaru. "You'll make a good mother," Sesshomaru said and Kagome blushed. "I sure hope so," Kagome muttered and for the first time Sesshomaru could sense her nervousness about being pregnant. Sesshomaru wrapped an arm around her and Kagome said, "Well we should be getting on home. Where's Lloyd?" "I sent him back home," Sesshomaru said, then imputed quickly, "we shouldn't go home yet. Do you want to find a hot spring?" "What are you hiding?" Kagome asked with a tilt of her head and received a nonchalant shrug. "Whatever do you mean?" Sesshomaru asked, walking over to A-Un.
He climbed up onto A-Un and Kagome followed suit. "Do you know where to find one?" Kagome asked after A-Un had took off. "Yeah," Sesshomaru said, "there's one that's close to here by the North Plain Leader's houses." Kagome blushed and muttered, "And what if they find us in there?" "I'll silence them," Sesshomaru said and Kagome frowned. "I'll ask them to please forget what they saw?" Sesshomaru said, changing his answer grudgingly. Kagome sighed but said, "I suppose it would be nice." It didn't take A-Un long to reach the North Plains Leaders house, and they only flew for a little while more before Sesshomaru landed A-Un near a spring. It had steam rising from it, and an occasional bubble would rise to the service and pop.
"It looks really hot," Kagome muttered, jumping off of A-Un. "Don't worry," Sesshomaru said, jumping off of A-Un as well, "we'll be fine." He began to undress and stepped into the water with a sigh before relaxing against the spring's bank. Kagome observed him for a second longer, before repeating what Sesshomaru did. Kagome leaned her head back with a huge sigh, before she finally felt Sesshomaru staring at her. "Do you want to go again?" Kagome asked, looking at him and was surprised to see him shake his head. Kagome shrugged and leaned her head back again, only to feel Sesshomaru's eyes watching her again. "You sure about that?" Kagome asked, looking at Sesshomaru again.
He nodded and Kagome laughed and said, "Is this because we did it this morning?" "We shouldn't have done that then," Sesshomaru finally said and Kagome made a face at him. "I sure couldn't tell we weren't supposed to," Kagome said with a snort, "specially seeing as you're the one that came onto me." Sesshomaru smiled then and said, "Yes, this morning was my fault." "Why weren't we supposed to have sex this morning?" Kagome finally asked, her curiosity getting the best of her. Sesshomaru shook his head though and Kagome frowned. "You've been mighty secretive today," Kagome commented and Sesshomaru gave a sly smile.
"Solaris," A voice purred from the treetop, "what is this we have here?" Kagome gave an, "eep!" and lowered down into the water as another voice chuckled. "Why its looks like two plains leaders discussing their sex life in our spring." Sesshomaru growled and said, "Alright you two. We get the point. We've been caught." Luna and Solaris appeared then smiling smugly. "Two little wolfies wandered into our spring," Luna muttered, a slow smile spreading across her face, "whatever should we do about them Solaris?" "Well, their things and their dragon are right there," Solaris purred and Luna's eyes almost seemed to light up.
"Don't you dare," Sesshomaru growled, but couldn't enforce the threat unless he wanted to risk exposing himself to the two leaders. "I guess we'll just be borrowing these," Luna purred gathering their clothes and weapons up and climbing up onto A-Un. "Luna can't we talk about this?" Kagome asked desperately and Luna laughed. "What's to talk about?" Luna purred again and Solaris climbed on behind her. A-Un didn't seem to mind them and took off without even glancing back. "Sesshomaru?" Kagome said turning back around to find her youkai fuming, "what do we do now?" Sesshomaru clenched and unclenched his fist before saying, "We could try to steal some of their clothes. Their house isn't too far from here." "Their house is also full of servants," Kagome muttered and Sesshomaru growled frustratingly.
"I got it!" Kagome said, and Sesshomaru raised a brow, "we could dress like jungle people until we find actual clothes!" "...you want me to wear leaves?" Sesshomaru muttered, narrowing his eyes at Kagome. "You must have a better idea?" Kagome growled and Sesshomaru sighed. "I'm sorry," Sesshomaru said, offering a smile, "I'm just frustrated that's all. Do you know how to fashion those types of clothes together?" Kagome nodded and said, "Here I'll go get so-..." "I got it," Sesshomaru said cutting her off, "I'd rather me be discovered naked, than you." Sesshomaru got out of the water, and Kagome settled down into it, laughing despite herself.
"This is a really good prank," Kagome purred, lying her head back against the bank, "If it wasn't being played on me I think I might enjoy it more." She closed her eyes and basked in the warmth the spring provided. When she opened them again however a pair of shoes stood in front of her. She trailed her eyes up and found Kikyo hovering over her. "AAAHHHHH!" Kagome yelled, trying to cover herself, "you couldn't have told me you were there!" "I have no interest in your body," Kikyo stated blandly and Kagome narrowed her eyes. "Then what's the reason you've interrupted my private time?" Kagome asked then with a snort said, "Inuyasha's not here." "I'm well aware of that," Kikyo said still giving Kagome a bland look, "I'd heard the West Plains Leader's were expecting a child."
"Yeah," Kagome said her tone softer, "what of it?" "Its tradition that a Plains woman have a miko watch the development of the child to ensure that everything is going smoothly," Kikyo said and with a slight tilt of her head said, "I'm presuming you don' t have one." "And you're offering to be mine?" Kagome asked, raising a brow, "what's the catch?" "There's this little boy I want you to care for," Kikyo said, catching a raised brow from Kagome, "I won't be the miko to do it, but I'll send someone just as good." "Little boy?" Kagome asked and Kikyo nodded. "Than do we have a deal?" Kikyo asked, sitting down. "S-sure I don't have a problem with it," Kagome said a little shocked at Kikyo's proposal. "I'll send him to your home then," Kikyo said, a small smile on her face.
Kikyo got up then and walked away, leaving Kagome in a pondering state. "I'm back," Sesshomaru announced and Kagome looked towards him. He was wearing what appeared to be samurai's clothing and held some more in his hand. "An old woman gave them to me," Sesshomaru explained when Kagome sent him a wondering glance. Kagome got out of the water, and put on the clothes. "Somebody was here," Sesshomaru stated, after a breeze picked up Kikyo's scent and blew it towards them. "Yeah," Kagome said and went over what Kikyo had said. "Little boy?" Sesshomaru asked, tilting his head. "Yeah, that's what she said," Kagome purred, laughing when Sesshomaru began to carry her bridal style.
"We'll deal with it later," Sesshomaru said, teasingly nibbling her ear, "we have some Plains Leaders to visit."
Xxxxxxxxx The North Plains Leaders house xxxxxxxxX
"Oh, you guys found clothes?" Luna asked nervously after opening the door. "Yeah," Kagome purred, "we did." Kagome jumped the Plains Leader then, and Kagome and Luna rolled around on the floor growling. Their fight lacked any real vengeance however and the two Plains Leaders were soon laughing loudly. "I was going to go back after pulling you guys' legs for a while," Luna said, shutting the door after Sesshomaru came in. "Where's our things Luna?" Sesshomaru asked. "A-Un is in the stables," Luna said, "and your clothes and weapons are in the cute little pouch I made for him. So, Kagome, have you been feeling any pregnancy symptoms?"
"Welllll," Kagome said scratching the back of her neck, "my breasts have been really tender lately." "Wait till you get the bouts of nausea!" Luna said laughing, "that's the fun part!" Kagome frowned however and said, "The bad parts must be horrible then." Luna laughed again and begin to walk off the two Plains Leaders following them. "Lunch first okay?" Luna said walking in to the dining. Kagome didn't object to the sudden invitation. She hadn't eaten breakfast and was starving. Kagome, Sesshomaru, and Luna settled down on the dining room table and were shortly joined by Solaris and Loen. "Hi Sesshomaru!" Loen yelled running over to him. Loen held a deep admiration in his eyes as Sesshomaru reached over and placed a hand on the boy's hair.
"Stop pestering him Loen," Solaris purred and Loen whined but sat down as his father commanded him. "It looks like you have a fan," Kagome said punching his arm playfully. Sesshomaru glanced toward Loen and said, "Wonder what I did to inspire him." Some servants brought out a platter and spread the food out on the table. "Never has anything looked so delicious." Kagome purred, hurriedly putting it onto her plate. "If we don't hurry you guys Kagome is going to devour the whole table," Luna said jokingly receiving a chorus of laughs and one blushing Kagome. After everyone was done eating a loud conversational atmosphere emerged and lasted until the evening sun dipped below the horizon. "Staying for dinner?" Luna asked and Kagome shook her head. "We should really be heading home," Kagome said then turned her head towards Sesshomaru, "and we are this time."
Sesshomaru gave her a smile and said, "Fine by me." Disappointment was visible on Luna, Solaris, and Loen's faces but it seemed to disappear almost as soon as it came on. "Well," Luna purred, "See you this Friday. You are coming aren't you Kagome?" "Of course," Kagome said and Sesshomaru made a slight face. Luna walked the stables in relative silence and when they reached it Luna hugged both of them. "See you guys later," Luna waved, walking away. Kagome jumped onto A-Un eagerly and Sesshomaru followed suit. "I'm guessing you'll be flying this time?" Sesshomaru asked and Kagome answered by goading A-Un into the air.
As they soared through the sky, Kagome looked at the surrounding scenery with a newfound fondness. "We might not see this anymore after Friday," Kagome muttered, watching a stream twist through a forest. "You will," Sesshomaru said forcibly and Kagome smiled softly to herself. "Whattabout you?" Kagome asked after noticing he hadn't included himself. "I do not know," Sesshomaru replied, "I guarantee your survival because I'll make sure that nothing befalls you. Whether it is me or another person who protects you."
A-Un began to descend, startling Kagome. He landed in front of their home and a servant appeared to take him to the stables. "Rin and a stranger arrived here earlier," The servant said after bowing to the Plains Leaders as they got down from A-Un. "Rin?" Kagome asked tilting her head, "a stranger?" "Two to be exact," The servant said, taking A-Un into one of the stables to be washed down and fed, "but don't worry Lord Sesshomaru, I've already got them situated you can continue on with..." Sesshomaru gave the servant a sharp glare, and he fell silent immediately. "Continue on with what?" Kagome asked as Sesshomaru grabbed her hand and led her into the house. In its darkened state the hallways were lit with lanterns, giving it a spooky look.
"Sesshomaru?" Kagome said, as he led her into the garden. Once inside Sesshomaru let go of her hand and stood back, gauging her reaction with apprehension. The garden had been lit up with several candles, although several fireflies lit the garden up as well. The middle of the garden held candles around its open glade, and a full dinner sat on a large blanket. "This is to make up for not being around for a few days," Sesshomaru explained as a cherry red blush settled onto her face, "and afterwards I was going to make love to you but then this morning happened..." Kagome still hadn't spoken and Sesshomaru fidgeted nervously. "I-if you don't like it...," Sesshomaru started before Kagome interrupted him with a sudden kiss.
She had thrown her arms around him and Sesshomaru begin to kiss her back off impulse. He wrapped his arms around her waist, and as the kiss became more passionate he slowly slid his hands down. He grabbed her butt and Kagome giggled. "Thank you," Kagome muttered when the kiss ended. He smiled and led her towards the dinner. They sat together, skin touching, and begin to eat the food slowly and leisurely. When they finished, little tidbits of food still dotted the plates and they lay back on the blanket. Sesshomaru put a hand on her belly and muttered, "I love you Kagome." An intensely warm feeling went across her chest when she heard those words and placing a hand over Sesshomaru's muttered, "I love you too."
They basked in each other's presence for a while before Kagome muttered, "If you still want to make love to me..." Sesshomaru gave a warm rare laugh and, picking Kagome up, headed back to their room.
Xxxxxxxxx Early morning- Sesshomaru's house xxxxxxxxX
"YOU TWO WAKE UP NOW!" An angry upset child screamed. Kagome gritted her teeth, the loud noise upsetting her sensitive youkai ears. She could feel Sesshomaru stirring too, and she looked towards the door, careful not to let the cover slip below her bosom. "Rin?" Kagome asked sleepily, "what's wrong?" "YOU GUYS FORGOT ABOUT ME!" Rin yelled her face red, "AND AFTER ALL I'VE DONE FOR YOU!" "We didn't forget you Rin," Sesshomaru said, trying to calm the girl. "I've been over there for ten days," Rin grumbled, crossing her arms. "Rin could we talk about this later?" Kagome asked their late night activities at left the both of them bare of clothes. "No," Rin pouted and plopped down onto the ground.
Rin sat there for a moment before tilting her head, "Kagome, why are you holding the cover like that?" A blush ran across Kagome's face before she could stop it, and before she could come up with an excuse a woman entered the room. "Come along Rin," The lady said, even though her eyes gave her away as being nervous. She was slim, and wore an outfit that mirrored Kikyo's. "I... I'm Kikyo's underling..," The girl started and bowed jerkily, "well... was Kikyo's underling... I ... she sent me here to..." And finally the girl stopped, and blurted out, "You two aren't decent and you want me to leave right?" Kagome gave a small smile and nodded, and the girl slunk back out the door shutting it behind her.
Sesshomaru groaned and, wrapping his arm around her waist said, "That's a pleasant way to wake up." Kagome giggled and said, "We should go back to sleep." "Doesn't your sword practice with Lloyd go on right now?" Sesshomaru asked and Kagome bit her lip. "You knew huh?" Kagome finally said and Sesshomaru nodded. "I'm glad you're taking such measures to get stronger," Sesshomaru said, than muttered, "but I don't want you to hide it from me. As long as you don't over do it, I'm fine with it." Kagome nodded and got out of bed, dressing quickly. "Come on I want to meet these two strangers before my lesson starts," Kagome purred when Sesshomaru still hadn't stirred. He sighed, got up, and started to dress as well, yawning frequently.
"Someone should've got more sleep last night," Kagome said tauntingly, polishing off her outfit with her two swords and bow. "I should have," Sesshomaru said, done with his outfit as well, "but then again how could I sleep with my mate making such tantalizing offers?" Kagome stuck her tongue out at him and walked from the room with Sesshomaru following after her. "They'll be in the dining room for sure," Kagome said, walking towards it, "Breakfast should be ready by now." Sesshomaru nodded in agreement and they both entered the dining room. Kagome stopped dead in her tracks once she got inside and said quietly, "K-kohaku?"
He looked up and saw Kagome, and hurried to bow. "Yeah," Kohaku said, "don't... don't you travel with my sister? You're Inuyasha's mate or something like that aren't you?" "No," Sesshomaru growled, his eyes narrowing, "she's not." Kohaku looked taken aback and Kagome walked over to ease the young boy's nerves. "No I'm his mate," Kagome said, ruffling his hair, "and yes I do travel with Sango, but not right now. And don't mind Sesshomaru, he can be a little grumpy pants sometimes." Kagome smiled and Kohaku gave her a large smile back. "This is Kasumi!" Kohaku said, introducing the nervous miko from earlier.
"I'm sorry about earlier," Kasumi said, her eyes on the ground. "No matter," Kagome said, "where's Kikyo?" Both of them turned solemn suddenly and Kohaku muttered, "Here she told me to give this to you." Kagome took the object from Kohaku, and paled at the sight of it. "This... this is the sacred jewel piece that kept you alive," Kagome whispered. "Not anymore," Kohaku said turning his head away, "Kikyo said this wasn't her time anymore and... she grabbed the sacred jewel off my back... and when I woke back up she was gone..." "She told me to bring him here," Kasumi added, "that I would find you in need of a miko for your unborn child."
"Oh," Kagome muttered, settling down at her place at the table. Sesshomaru did so as well, and when the food was brought out the two's solemn atmosphere clung to the room like a cold death grip. "Unborn child?" Rin's voice suddenly raised up excitedly, "Are you pregnant Kagome!" Kagome nodded and a big smile broke out over Rin's face. "What are you going to name it?" Rin started off, "is it a boy or a girl? Are you going to have more than one, or just one? So how exactly do you get pregnant anyway?" "Uhhhh," Kagome said, flustered with the amount of questions Rin had thrown at her, "I don't know, I don't know, I don't know, and you're not old enough to know yet."
Rin made a face and said, "We don't know anything!" Everyone burst out laughing, and Rin couldn't help but join in a little later. "I... I can give you your first check up after breakfast," Kasumi said and hurriedly added on, "Lady Kagome." Kagome frowned slightly at the girl's manner towards her, but Kasumi mistook it for displeasure. "I really am sorry I'm trying Lady...," Kasumi muttered, starting to get upset. "Stop," Kagome said before Kasumi had another chance to fret, "I'm your friend. I'm not gonna do anything to harm you. If it would make you feel better, you can just call me Kagome." Kasumi looked shocked at the offer and Kagome went on, "But I'll have to do that check up later. I have sword practice right now."
Kagome could see a flash of disapproval go through Kasumi's eyes, who'd just opened her mouth when Kagome ran out saying, "I won't over do it!"
"Kagome," Sesshomaru's voice called and she poked her head back into the room. "Hmmmmmmm?" Kagome said, and he stared at her for a moment. "Meet me afterwards," He finally said and Kagome nodded. She ran to the garden to find Lloyd standing there patiently. "Sorry I'm late," Kagome said, "I ate breakfast first this morning." "No bother," Lloyd said smiling, "look who I found!" He nodded his head to a wizened old man who stared up at her with big eyes. "T-totosai!" Kagome said and he smiled. "Young laddie here tells me you're in need of two swords made by the greatest," Totosai said, puffing out his chest, "came to visit me yesterday asking for them. Used to be a pupil of mine, very talented."
"Not as talented as you," Lloyd said bowing and Totosai laughed. "No need trying to kiss up," Totosai said, even though you could see he was pleased with the comment, "I've already brought the two swords." He took the swords from his back and tossed them to Kagome. "Those swords you now possess are complete opposites of the other," Totosai explained, "one was made using the burning hot infernos of lava, while the other one was forged using the soothing waters of a stream. To master these swords you'll have to bring the two elements together." "They must have a mind of their own?" Kagome said jokingly, when suddenly the swords became really heavy.
She fell to the ground with a thud and Totosai shook his head. "You've already upset them," Totosai sighed, starting to walk off, "you have a long way ahead of you if you keep that up." "Lloyd help get these off," Kagome huffed after trying her hardest to get her arms free of the heavily weighed down swords. When Lloyd touched them however, the scabbard of one of the swords turned red hot and burned his hand. He jerked it back with a yelp and the scabbard returned to its original color. "You'll just have to try harder Lady Kagome," Lloyd muttered and Kagome narrowed his eyes at him before struggling to rise with the two deadweight swords in her hand.
Kagome sighed and tied the swords to her back using a strap Lloyd had just given her. "Maybe you have to earn the swords trust," Lloyd suggested, unsheathing his swords. Kagome reached for the two swords and pulled them out, the swords weighing down hard on her muscles. One of the swords was a cool blue and the other a fiery red. "If you win our sparring matches today," Kagome groaned as the swords seemed to get heavier, "it's because you gifted me with emotionally challenged swords." At this the swords became heavier than they did before and Kagome struggled to stand up. "Maybe you should stop insulting them," Lloyd muttered and all Kagome did was glare.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxx After sword practice xxxxxxxxX
Kagome walked from the garden slowly and tenderly. "I overdid it," Kagome groaned as all her muscles screamed their dislike of her. She walked to Sesshomaru's office and, straitening herself up, walked in. "Sword practice is over?" Sesshomaru muttered reading a scroll. "Yup, Kagome purred, strectching. Kagome could barely refrain from wincing at the action and Sesshomaru glanced up a smile on his face. "I'm done too," He purred, writing something onto the scroll and giving it to a servant who was standing next to him. The servant bowed and ran off. "Come on then," Sesshomaru said, getting up and walking out the door. Kagome followed after him, glad he didn't seem to be in a romantic mood. Just walking at the speed Sesshomaru was was killing her.
They walked outside into the fresh air and Sesshomaru sat in the middle of the open glade in front of their home. Kagome sat down in front of him and Sesshomaru said, "Have you ever a heard a voice in you head that's not yours and not mine either?" Kagome nodded slowly and said, "It's a growly evil sounding voice. But it did warn me that our home was being attacked." "That's your beast," Sesshomaru said as a breeze played with his hair, "your beast is where your youkai energy comes from. Every time you gather energy its because your beast has voluntarily given it to you. The more energy you use, the closer you are to your beast. To the point you could control it at will if needed."
"Sounds cool...," Kagome said, wondering what the beast lesson was for. "But there are downsides," Sesshomaru interrupted and Kagome raised her eyebrows, "if you become really angry or really upset it could trigger your beast and cause it to take complete control. It will also do this if you use more energy then you are used to, or if it thinks you need to be protected. Your beast is your strongest and weakest asset at the same time. Because in an uncontrolled beast state, it does not matter who your friends or enemies are. Death and pain lose its grip on you, rational thoughts aren't needed. The chance of you dying increases exponentially." Kagome listened on in a stunned and horrified silence.
"The only person safe from your beast is your mate if you have one," Sesshomaru said after a long silence, "your beast will recognize its mark on your mate from its scent. In an uncontrolled beast state your mate is probably the only one who could snap you out of it. And when I say the only person who is safe from your beast is your mate, I mean that. Not even you yourself are safe if control is lost." Kagome leaned her head back and muttered, "Why tell me this now?" "You're going to see people you care about die tomorrow," Sesshomaru muttered and Kagome became rigidly stiff, "and you need to be in control at all times. No matter what happens." "...Have many times have you lost control?" Kagome finally asked, and Sesshomaru tensed. "Only twice," Sesshomaru muttered, "and both of those times involved you."
Kagome and Sesshomaru had gotten up then and to break the solemn atmosphere Kagome punched Sesshomaru's arm lightly. "How old are you anyway?" Kagome purred, "You must be in the trillions by now." Sesshomaru made a face and said, "I'm not that old and you know it." He punched her arm back and Kagome gave a pained yelp. "I mean ahhh right," Kagome said in a failed attempt to try to cover up the yelp. "You overdid it," Sesshomaru said, shaking his head. "What am I going to do with you?" Sesshomaru muttered, picking Kagome up. Kagome giggled and kissed his neck causing the youkai to shiver. "You enjoy teasing me don't you?" Sesshomaru asked and Kagome laughed. "A little," Kagome purred, kissing his mark this time.
Sesshomaru grunted and ran back into the house quickly, not stopping until he got into their room and laid her on the bed. "Here you go," Sesshomaru said and Kagome paled. "This won't involve anything sharp will it?" Kagome asked and Kasumi laughed. "No," Kasumi muttered, putting her hands to her abdomen. They begin to glow pink and Kagome could feel the energy coursing around her womb. "Well, its coming along fine," Kasumi purred, "I won't be able to tell you the gender until the second month of course. This'll be a fun five months, huh!" Kasumi had poked Kagome's belly softly, and Kagome gave her a puzzled look.
"Five?" Kagome said tilting her head, "I thought it was nine." "No," Kasumi said shaking her head, "nine months is the human time for fetus development. Youkai's only take five months." Kagome gave a small, "oh." and Kasumi smiled again just before walking out. Kagome yawned and turning her head towards Sesshomaru, said in a serious tone, "I'll try to stay calm." Sesshomaru nodded and said, "That's all I'm asking for." Kagome jumped up from the bed and said, "I just had an idea!" She playfully grabbed his crotch, causing Sesshomaru to jump, and ran from the room.
"Kasumi!" Kagome yelled just as the miko was about to go into her room. All of a sudden her muscles reminded her of the abuse she had did to them, and she fell. "Second time today," Kagome groaned and Kasumi ran over. "Lady Kagome!" Kasumi yelled upon reaching her. She gave Kagome a quick check-over and tsked. "You over exerted yourself," Kasumi said shaking her head. Once Kasumi had eased the pain in her muscles Kagome got up. "Thanks," Kagome said strectching pain-free this time, "I was going to ask how many mikos you know in each village?" "Well over one-hundred," Kasumi said and Kagome's eyes lit up, "why do you ask?" "No time to explain," Kagome said ushering Kasumi into her room, "I need you to get a scroll and a quill and write down all the villages you know where mikos are and how many are there."
"You don't intend to gather them all up do you?" Kasumi said her eyes wide, "that'll take a week at the least!" "We don't have a week," Kagome muttered, "We'll have to do this with the time we have left. I'll join the search if I have to." Kasumi had finished the list and handed to Kagome. "Tell Sessho where I've gone!" Kagome yelled and ran off. She went to the servants quarters and gave a roar. The servants ran out immediately and she explained her intent to them. "There are one-hundred and thirty-seven mikos in one-hundred and eighteen villages," Kagome explained as they all stared at her curiously, "I want every single one of those mikos under this roof tonight."
"Ma'am yes ma'am!" They all yelled. "Now I only want the able-bodied and the people who aren't with or have children," Kagome said and they all nodded. "Are they going to be staying with the warriors downstairs?" A servant asked with a critical eye. "Of course not," Kagome said, offended, "they'll be staying upstairs with the female warriors. I have better manners than that." The servants swiveled their heads around to see who had insulted Kagome and found Karina to be on the receiving end. "I did not mean to offend my lady," Karina muttered with a low bow. "Its fine," Kagome said smiling, "now let's get moving before its too late!" "You're going with us?" One of the servant called out, "you're with child!" Kagome realized this did contradict the list of people she wanted to go and she scratched the back of her head. "Welllll," Kagome said, shrugging her shoulders, "I'll be on A-Un so its not like I'm actually exerting myself."
The servants nodded and when Kagome broke into a run the servants that qualified to go ran after her. Once she ran outside, she turned around and they all stopped. She got the list and read the names of all the villages. "Break up into a number of groups you feel is necessary to complete this task!" Kagome yelled, "discuss amongst yourselves which group will go to which villages and I don't want anyone going solo you hear! And Lloyd if you're in that crowd come here!" They all yelled ma'am yes ma'am and begin to talk excitedly as Lloyd slunk over to her side. "You want me to stay here because I have valuable information," Lloyd muttered, his shoulder slumped.
"Sorry buddy," Kagome said, patting his arm. He gave a soft smile and walked back into the house, a rejected atmosphere around him. Sesshomaru walked out of the house then and said, "What's going on here Kagome? What is Kasumi talkiing about?" "We can create a small hospital on the outside of the battlefield tomorrow," Kagome said, and then turning towards the group of servants yelled, "No groups should be larger than three!" "You're a genius," Sesshomaru purred, nuzzling his head against hers. Kagome giggled and gasped when he grabbed her the same way she had done him earlier. "Just repaying the favor," Sesshomaru purred as Kagome begin to feel aroused. "Sessho," Kagome whispered and he stepped back.
"Are we joining them?" Sesshomaru asked a smile on his face now. "We can handle them all Lady Kagome!" One of the servants yelled. "And be back by midnight!" Another one added on. "I guess not," Kagome muttered, and being to walk back in the house, an eager Sesshomaru following.
Xxxxxxxxx Dinner time xxxxxxxxX
Kagome and Sesshomaru were the last ones to get to the table, and the food had already been served. "You guys are awfully late," Kasumi noted, giving them a knowing smile. Kagome blushed and Sesshomaru smiled. "Look who came back Lord Sesshomaru!" Rin yelled, haven forgiven them somewhere between breakfast and lunch. Rin had pointed towards Jaken who waved nervously. "Where have you been Jaken?" Sesshomaru asked as he sat down at the table. "I was planning on returning home on my own," Jaken said then an angry expression formed on his face, "when I was rudely kidnapped by some wolf boy who'd seen me travelling with you, who seen'd you with Kagome lately."
"How'd you get away?" Kagome asked, biting into a mediumly cooked steak. "He wouldn't rest until I'd brought him here," Jaken admitted in a small voice. "Kagome!" A familiar voice yelled running over. "Koga!" Kagome yelled just as excitedly, getting up to give him a hug, "I haven't seen you in forever!" She could practically feel the anger radiating from Sesshomaru and hoped Koga wouldn't try his flirting antics this time around. "I've missed you too," Koga said and Kagome was about to give a sigh of relief when he said, "my beautiful rose." A growl came from Sesshomaru's throat and he said slowly, ".go." "Or what?" Koga challenged and Kagome managed to pull herself away when Sesshomaru got up. "You guys," Kagome said looking back and forth between them, "let's not do this right now. We have a big battle tomorrow and the food is appetizingly good."
Sesshomaru looked as if he would listen to her plea and sit back down, when Koga touched her mating mark tenderly. Kagome gave a sigh of pleasure before she could stop herself spun around yelling,"Damn it Koga!" She grabbed him and Sesshomaru, who'd just lunged at Koga and threw both of them on opposite sides of the dining room. "Oh gosh," Kagome thought immediately afterwards, "oh gosh, what have I done...?" Koga jumped back up quickly but muttered, "Owwww, you made me hit my head." Sesshomaru had righted himself in the air and landed on his feet. "Out of my way Kagome," Sesshomaru growled, his eyes starting to turn red. "You guys out of here now!" Kagome yelled, and the group sitting at the table in stunned silence ran as told.
"Are you sure you don't need help Kagome?" Kohaku asked and received a firm nod and a shove towards the door. "You too Koga," Kagome muttered and he had squared his chest up defiantly when Kagome whispered, "I swear if you go now, I'll kiss you later!" Koga's eyes lit up and he said, "Alright that's a promise." "Yes now go!" Kagome said and he finally left the room. "Sesshomaru," Kagome called, turning her attention back to her upset mate. She walked towards him hesitantly, his red eyes captivating her as they had last time. He was shaking violently and his breathing came heavy and fast.
When she reached him, she placed both of her hands on his chest. "Kagome," Sesshomaru groaned, "I'm losing it again." Kagome shushed him and kissed the mark on his neck softly. He whined and the shaking calmed down somewhat, although his breathing remained labored. She left a trail of kisses from his mark to his lips, and thrust her tongue in during one of his gasps for air. She caressed his tongue tantalizingly slow and after a minute of doing so he began to kiss her back. When the kiss ended Sesshomaru was back to himself, an ashamed look on his face. "Third time," He said and sat down at a chair at the table.
"Hey don't beat yourself up about it," Kagome muttered, giving his kneecap a light squeeze. "Do you like him?" Sesshomaru asked, looking up at her, "when he touched my mark you..." Sesshomaru clenched his fist and looked away. Kagome looked ashamed now as she admitted, "I've... always had a soft spot in my heart for him. But I wouldn't choose him over you Sessho!" Sesshomaru looked towards Kagome and said, "I want all of your heart. Not most of it." He got up then and kissed her mark gently, eliciting a loud groan from Kagome. "And that one kiss better be all he gets from you," Sesshomaru growled and Kagome jumped.
"You heard that?" Kagome muttered as Sesshomaru nipped her mark now. "Yeah," Sesshomaru growled again, "I did." He bit down on it suddenly and Kagome screamed in raw pleasure. He licked the mark now and the wound began to close back up. "Who's your mate?" Sesshomaru asked teasingly as Kagome's breath came raggedly. "You," Kagome purred and Sesshomaru let her up from the table. She walked towards the door in a sort of daze and found herself running into Kasumi. "What's wrong!" Kasumi yelled, worry in her eyes, "did Sesshomaru hurt you?" "I would never harm Kagome," Sesshomaru said, frowning at hearing the accusation again.
"Lady Kagome?" Kasumi asked and Kagome shook her head. "I'm sorry," She muttered, "what did you say?" "She asked what's wrong," Sesshomaru repeated and Kagome shook her head again. "Tired," Kagome finally said and waved the two goodbye as she headed to their room. "I didn't do anything to her," Sesshomaru said when Kasumi shot him a reproachful look. "You bit her mark," Kasumi said and Sesshomaru tilted his head. "What's wrong with that?" Sesshomaru said, and Kasumi crossed her arms. "She's been up ripping and running since she woke up," Kasumi explained, "and then you take a little more of her energy by bedding her, and you take what's left by sending her over the edge again. She's pregnant Lord Sesshomaru; her stamina only goes so far."
"I see what you're saying," Sesshomaru said, closing his eyes, "fine. I won't do anything sexual for the next four months and a half." Kasumi nodded and walked off, unknowingly leaving behind a flustered Sesshomaru. He went to his office and sat back in his chair. "I've been so focused on fulfilling my needs, I haven't even stopped to consider hers," Sesshomaru thought, running a hand through his hair." His thoughts then flew to Koga, the impudent young brat his Kagome had feelings for. "No matter how small they are," Sesshomaru thought dejectedly, "they're still there." "And she's promised to kiss him," Sesshomaru thought, feeling angry with himself this time, "if I could've controlled myself she wouldn't had to have made that promise."
"L-lord Sesshomaru?" A voice said hesitantly. Sesshomaru sat up and saw one of the servants from Kagome's expedition. "Yes," Sesshomaru said, putting his thoughts aside for later. "The mikos are all upstairs and they want a through explanation of what's going on," The servant said bowing. Sesshomaru got up and walked towards the stairs, climbing them two at a time. When he reached the top he walked to the upper garden, where all the mikos had gathered. After explaining what Kagome had explained to him, all of the mikos were onboard with the idea and broke up to find a room. Sesshomaru sighed and walked back down the stairs, his mind reoccupied with his previous thoughts. "Why the long face Lord Sesshomaru?" Kohaku asked coming up to him. Sesshomaru glanced at the kid before saying, "I have no interest in discussing my feelings to you."
"If it's about Kagome," Kohaku plowed on, "I don't think you'll have to worry about her. She's real crazy about you, I can tell." Sesshomaru smiled and patted the kid's head simply saying, "Thanks." He walked into their room then and found Kagome sprawled out on the bed, knocked out. "She didn't even bother to change into her night gown," Sesshomaru thought with a twinge of guilt. He undid the sash around her, and pulled the kimono off trying not to stir the sleeping Kagome. He put the night gown on her and she woke briefly, but only kissed his lips softly before falling back asleep again. He put her under the cover and changed into his night gown next. Sesshomaru climbed into the bed and thought, "Tomorrow's the big day..."
************** Whelp that's it for chapter 10. I hoped you enjoyed it! :D I do not own Inuyasha ***************