Chapter 4: Bell Flowers

" Kagome, are you alright?" Sango gently shook the trembling miko in her arms. Sango looked on nervously, her anxiety was rising. Her sisterly instincts drove her to want to shield Kagome from everyone, to make sure she was completely safe both mentally and physically. She noticed the grimace gracing Kagome's face and the slight sheen of sweat that dotted her brow. Her breathing was harsh, as she seemed to find an answer.

"Give me a moment Sango, I'm just a bit dizzy." The rest of the group moved back to give the two some space.

Kagome fought the nausea that was rising up as the sharp pin pricks along her skin increased. She moved out of Sango's embrace, slowly standing she tried to adjust. They looked confused, as she tried to calm her breathing. Kikyou was coming and judging by how severe the wave had been, she was traveling at an alarming speed. A flash of red and gold, the dream of Inuyasha nagged at the edge of her mind.

"Where is Inuyasha?"

"Still unconscious, I am not sure where he landed; Sesshomaru dealt him a pretty heavy blow." Miroku sighed.

Sesshomaru's blank face did not show any interest in the admission. The monk shifted; uneasy with the nights events he recounted the unusual shift in Inuyasha. He had seemed feral, intent on separating everyone from Kagome. Never before had he lashed out at them unless his youkai blood surfaced to a dangerous level, and even then, Kagome had been able to bring him back from the brink. His hand tightened on his staff, Kagome's screams were still fresh in his mind, she had never, ever cried to be saved from Inuyasha. Even more surprising was Sesshomaru's evolvement, no one in had ever been on the protective side of his deadly claws with the exception of the little girl that seemed to follow him.

"I still don't know what got into him, but Kikyou is headed here."

Pulling her torn kimono close, Kagome softly whispered "Thank you Sesshomaru, Thank you for saving me."

Silence was her reply.

"How do you know Kagome?" Shippo walked over to Kagome and grasped the hem of her kimono.

"I can feel it. She should be here any moment and something tells me it is related to everything that has happened tonight. It just …doesn't feel right." She clenched her fists tightly; taking a deep breath, she calmed her racing heart. The recent rush of power, the battles and Inuyasha's attack made her weary. Once she centered herself, she pushed the terror she felt away and gave everyone a smile.

"I'll be alright, lets get Inuyasha and prepare before she arrives." She turned and faced the haunting demon lord behind her. She could feel his tremendous jaki radiating out, smothering the village. Sesshomaru had stood passively while she had collected herself, she studied his blank expression, his masculine features and silver hair, her heart beat slightly faster as she took in his intense golden eyes shining brightly with raging emotion, it was a startling contrast. Never before had he stepped in to save her, and it happened twice in the same night. Sesshomaru's gaze connected with hers and for a brief moment she though she saw a flash of concern, embarrassed she broke the contact. She looked to what remained of Kaede's hunt and her heart fell.

The battle between the brothers had decimated most of the old dwelling. Only a few walls still stood, thick pieces of wood scattered around the ground, the surrounding trees snapped in half, deep claw marks gauged in the trunks. The roof had begun to cave in, small sections would shake with the slight breeze, small slivers would break off and fall into the darkened whole.

"Oh Kaede I'm sorry." Kagome moved to hug the old woman. She pulled out of Kagome's embrace, patting her on the shoulders she replied.

"Don't worry, as long as ye are safe that is all that matters. Now go and collect Inuyasha. I fear he may have been controlled by something. The others and I will prepare for your return." She turned a knowing eye towards the demon lord, before walking to the hut. She carefully entered, slowly bringing out small items that had survived the battle. Shippo stood next to the entrance carefully taking the items Kaede handed him, each time he would glance in the direction Kagome was in.

Sesshomaru looked on passively as the make shift group started to prepare a small camp outside the wreckage of the old Miko's hut. The other humans smelled of anxiety, fear and confusion. He noticed each took small steps to gain Kagome's attention. Sesshomaru could hear a faint roaring in the distance, he turned the direction he had left Inuyasha in; there was a resurgence of youkai, followed by the faint smell of grave soil on the wind. Kagome stood part from the group looking on; he could tell she was battling with herself on what to do next.

I need to end this farce.

"Come miko, he has awakened." Sesshomaru turned and extended a hand toward Kagome. She gasped in surprise, looking into his eyes looking for any sign that would betray his actions. She was hesitant, he may have saved her but she knew under this fleeting change Sesshomaru was the one that wished for her and Inuyasha's blood. The longer she waited the longer the urge to find Inuyasha grew. She had to find out why he attacked her, and look into the shroud Kaede had mentioned. It could be another one of Naraku's games. She took a deep breath.

I guess I will have to trust him on this.

He could see her conflicting emotions, the small tremble she gave when he leaned in closer. He did not know why he continued to help her, but the little miko had piped his curiosity. He wished to quell the distrust she seemed to have of him, and did the only think he could think of at the moment.

"Kagome. We must go."

Her blue eyes widened in shock, before she slowly put her small hand within his. He felt proud for a small moment; the beast within him gave out a small purr as he stared quickly at her hand in his. The feeling dissolved as quickly as it came, disgust that he would feel any measure of emotion toward a human took its place.

I' m honor bound to help. Once the Hanyou is returned to normal, I can leave this filth behind.

Sesshomaru gracefully pulled her into his arm, and pressed her lightly against his chest crouching low he took off into the skies for a third time that night. He could not help but notice how good she felt against his chest once more.

"Do you think she is safe with him?"

"We should have gone with them."

Kaede looked toward the fleeting pair, she could see that the connection had been broken and a new thread had formed in its place. Turning toward the others, she gave a short reply.

"The wheels of fate have turned."

Kagome clung tightly to Sesshomaru, the speed he traveled disorientated her, each graceful leap came in quick succession, bounding from one branch to the next, he never looked once confidently striding forward. Sesshomaru held her at arms length, but firm enough she knew he would not let her fall. The harsh wind pressed against her, chilling her to her core, his icy armor rubbed against her pinching her skin with each movement. The small brush of his mokomoko against her exposed skin, the calm steady beating of his heart against his chest rang in her ears. The differences between the brother's holds caused thoughts of her travels with Inuyasha came rushing forward. The way he would hold her tightly against his back, the woodsy smell of his hair as she leaned in, even the sound of his fire rat flapped against the wind. His ears would swivel back occasionally as she talked about the beauty of the forest they travelled. She would be able to feel his warmth and the small vibration of his laugh against her chest, the ever-changing movements of his muscled back beneath her fingertips. Then suddenly the vision changed and he was standing before her, tattered and bloody a crooked smile graced his face. She wanted to reach out to him, but as he neared in her vision, his face changed into the ruthless youkai that had attacked her earlier, she pulled back quickly the image fading from her view.

"Do not fidget, less you wish me to drop you."

Kagome pulled closer, hoping he would not decide to do it anyway. His hold tightened in response.

"I'm sorry, I.. never mind. Thank you for helping again. "she turned in his embrace, resting her face against his shoulder , she dreaded the meeting with Inuyasha.

"He is here, with another." Sesshomaru began his decent, he had not knocked Inuyasha far from the village, yet he was farther than he had anticipated.

Kagome nodded, the smooth silk of his kimono soothed the burning sensation rising within her chest. The slight tinge of Kagome's fear rose to his senses, soon pushed out by her rising determination. Sesshomaru smirked at the small miko in his arms.

What a brave little woman.

The rumbling laugh of his beast, caused him turn his icy demeanor. Tensing as he felt Kagome's discomfort grow, Sesshomaru prepared to face his brother. A new clearing came into view; it was covered in a vibrant sea of purple flowers that swayed with each breeze, fire flies danced between each, illuminating the flowers with rosy golden hues as they swayed back and forth. The pinkish glow of the rising sun, created a stunning contrast against the lush green canopies lighting the clearing through the gaps in the foliage. Silver shinidamachu circled around the couple nestled between the grass, silently they danced as they dropped collected souls.

Sesshomaru touched down, placing Kagome gently on the ground he gave her a blank stare before turning to gaze upon them. He squeezed her shoulder slightly before unblocking her view. Clenching a hand to her chest she tried to sooth the burning she felt, it was always worse when Kikyou was near; her soul called out to be completed, brushing against her skin as it fought to call back the missing piece Kikyou carried. She took in the sight of Inuyasha resting peacefully against Kikyou's folded legs, he seemed content although the demonic markings of his youkai still adorned his cheeks. She noticed Kikyou was humming a soft tune, as she ran her fingers through his silver hair. She watched as Sesshomaru moved the distinct urge to call out Inuyasha's name rose. She could feel her powers rising, see the pinkish glow emanate beneath her skin.

Please not again. This is getting ridiculous. My powers have never been this active; I just want to get back to normal!

You must see.. Trust us once more.. A new voice answered her mental rant, soft and feminine it guided her.

Why should I trust you? Everything has gone crazy since this started! Inuyasha and hell even Sesshomaru has turned into versions of people I don't know.

Please Kagome have faith, allow us to show you the way, or your bond will cease.

What? I don't understand.

You will.. A vision of Kikyou standing over a soulless Inuyasha eyed Inuyasha flashed; she noticed a slight red twinge linking the two. Her eyes narrowed, but the image vanished and in its place, the warm gaze of two hazel eyes appeared.

Just follow your heart, don't deny your instincts

The urge to call out Inuyasha's name was more pressing than ever, she knew it was right. Just before, she could call her voice forward she saw her new savior jump to attack.

Sesshomaru began moving toward the couple, he noticed that the dead miko did not acknowledge his presence, yet the hair on the back of his neck rose as he listened to her eerie tune. Silently he stalked forward waiting for her to look up, anger started to build as she continued to ignore him, the great taiyoukai; she just rhythmically traced the same pattern into Inuyasha's brow. His hackles rose are he neared the woman, lengthening his claws he prepared to cut the dead woman into two, the small ripple of his jaki picked up the rising powers of Kagome. He could not see any threat yet the odd smell of grave soil and sadness grew the closer he got, blocking out even his brother's and Kagome's unique scents. His poison started to drip destroying several of the flowers that littered the ground, the woman increased her chanting as Sesshomaru leapt to attack.

Kagome's voice rang out, calling the name of the brother he so despised.

"INUYASHA!"

The woman seemed to react to Kagome's voice; her eyes snapped open baring soulless dull orbs to his view. He could feel the faint pulse of miko power and then he was violently thrown back as he encountered a barrier, it singed the tips of his hand; the searing pain travelled up his arm causing each nerve to react, each muscle to clench in agony. Recoiling from the unexpected power, he sent an icy glare at the witch. The silver Shinidamachu swirled faster around the dead priestess, causing a vortex of wind that pushed the now overwhelming scent of grave soil into the air. Sesshomaru covered his face with his sleeve, trying to drown out the offensive smell. Kagome had rushed forward, and Sesshomaru handed before her, causing her to run into his back. She moved to rush around him, but he turned his steely gaze on her.

"It is not safe woman." He finished with a sneer.

She pins for him. So eager to run to his side, although he attacked her. What a fool.

Imagine if she held you in her regard, she would bind your passion so tightly..

Nonsense, this Sesshomaru would never rut a human.

Yet you fight with me during battle on who holds her attentions…

Kagome's voice pulled him from his musings.

"I know but Kikyou has done something to him." She tugged slightly on his sleeve, urging him forward.

Her expressive eyes seem to plead with him and the gentle pulsing of her powers cause his pain to recede. It interested him to see the reaction her powers had on him, twice now they healed him instead of harming him. He pushed the thought back, noting to look into it in further later. He turned back to the woman Kagome had called Kikyou. She was a striking resemblance to the miko at his side but he could see darkness that resided within her. He noted the dullness of her hair, the pasty complexion of her skin, the pale hue of her tight lips and her thin straight figure, everything Kagome was not she seemed to embody. His whole being reacted violently to her presence, it was repulsed.

"INUYASHA! INUYASHA PLEASE WAKE UP!"

She called out again her voice dying on the increasing winds. She battled against Sesshomaru's tight hold, she could feel a change stirring in Inuyasha. Kikyou's eyes sharply turned in her direction; they narrowed, as hate seemed to shine from her glassy depths. The dead priestess looked down at her companion's face, head slightly turning to the side as he began to toss. The markings from his face faded as he seemed to fight whatever control caused them to appear. Kikyou removed Inuyasha from her lap, not before starting into Kagome's eyes as she leaned down and placed a single kiss on his brow. Smirking in triumph, she rose and allowed her Shinidamachu to carry her into the sky. The sun was almost up, brightly rising over the treetops. It caused a blinding light to glow around Kikyou's form, she stopped her ascension, and staring into her rival's eyes once more, she calmly shattered the young girl's heart.

"Our bonding is complete. I will be back to claim him once more."

Turning her back on them both her soul stealers carried her away. Sesshomaru tensed as he smelled hot tears, Kagome sagged against his form, as she began to sob louder she slid down his side falling to a small heap at his feet. He did not know why this change caused him so mush discomfort. He could feel a change in her; there was now a heady scent of desolation, and weakness clouding her aura, the once bright spitfire, seemed to be nothing but a dwindling flame. He was unaccustomed to the human nature, even less the nature of young human females. He stared on as she sobbed, unsure how to proceed. His attention snapped away from the grieving miko, toward his brother now prone form, he seemed dazed and confused. Sesshomaru could tell his brother had returned to normal, the turbulent energy he had felt during his prior battle had vanished. The threat had fled, Inuyasha had been found and he had repaid the debt he had incurred with the miko. He left the sobbing miko's side and left.

Kagome couldn't help but sob quietly, Kikyou's words rang loudly within her ears and even deeper those few words penetrated her soul. She knew she spoke the truth; as soon as those words had left her venomous mouth she could feel the small bond connecting her to Inuyasha sever. It was like his presence was stripped from her entire world. She had never felt so horrible, not even when her soul has stolen from her, the feeling overwhelmed her. She felt Sesshomaru move away from her, his shining aura slowly retreating. She turned her teary gaze in his direction; he was leaving. She did not know why it pained her to see him go, never once giving a glance back.

He's abandoning me.

He was never "with" you in the first place stupid. What did you think he was with you because he wanted to be?

But he saved me, he brought me here, I thought that he might care in some small way. A new ally.

He is your enemy, he is not your friend, he is nothing to you but an honorable coincidence.

"Kagome?"

The rough voice of Inuyasha broke her dismal train of thoughts; she looked up into worried amber eyes. She flinched away from him slightly, the painful memories of his attack flashed. She tightly closed her eyes as she felt him pull her into a tight embrace, she could feel his unease to her reaction. She pushed away the dirty feeling while in his arms, taking a deep breath she opened her eyes shocked to see Inuyasha's eyes filled with tears. She brought her shaking hand up and gently whipped each tear away. Giving him a shaky smile she whispered to him.

"I'm glad your back Inuyasha."

" Keh. I didn't know I ever left." He pulled her slender body tighter to his, he tried to remember the events of the day, but each time nothing but blinding white met his inquiries. He could smell Kikyou, and Sesshomaru everywhere, the mirage of scents caused a slight head ache. Kagome was now silently crying into his chest, her tattered kimono, disheveled appearance and tears caused him to be on edge.

"Can we go home now Inu?"

"Yeah, lets get back."

An eerie feeling crept into his chest, as one thought entered his mind.

What had happened?

Kagome slowly drifted off into a light slumber, her face held taunt, dark circles formed under her delicately shaped eyes. She could feel the gentle sway of his powerful leaps, moving them closer and closer to the village.

Inuyasha took in the wreckage of Kaede;s hut, his step flattered as he watched his companions rush forward, but what caught him off guard was that they were in positions to attack. Sango tightly held her hiraikotsu, raising it above her in preparation; Miroku clenched his beads, positioning himself in front of Sango, and even Kaede raised her bow against him, shielding Shippo from his view. His heart clenched in his chest, he pulled Kagome tighter as he slid to a stop.

"Stop right there! "

"Oi, what the fuck guys?" Inuyasha yelled, startling the group. He was pained as he noticed the fearful expressions on each of their faces.

Miroku noticed Kagome in Inuyasha arms; she was limp against his form. Fearing the worse, he moved closer to Inuyasha.

"Inuyasha give Kagome here." Miroku opened his arms slowly, sweat began to cover his brow. He could see Inuyasha's confusion, but he needed to make sure Kagome was safe.

"I ain't givin her up, she is weak for some reason. I ain't gonna hurt her you bastard." Inuyasha moved back away from the group, hugging Kagome even tighter. She cried out in his hold, startling everyone, she moved slowly in his arms, raising a hand she braced herself against his chest.

"Inuyasha that is too tight."

He looked at her in horror; he had hurt her just when he said he wouldn't. He lowered her to her feet. Kagome gave him another shaky smile, patting him on the chest she turned toward the others. They ran to meet her, enveloping her in a ring of hugs and silent tears.

"I'm okay now, and Inuyasha is okay now. I'm just a little tired. So I'm going to rest now." Kagome hugged each one, finally she stopped at shippo, bending down she picked up shippo and held him to her chest. She kissed away his tears, tucking his head under her chin, she started humming a small tune. She rubbed his back , then ran her fingers through his hair. The small kit melted against her touch.

"We were all worried about you momma."

"I know sweetie, but it will be better after we rest a bit, will you come lay with me?" The kit nodded vigorously as he cuddled in her arms. She turned back toward the others, staring into each ones concerned eyes briefly.

"I know you have heard this several times tonight, but I'll explain later. Miroku can.. you possibly explain to him what happened? I'll fill in the rest. "

"Of course Kagome." Turning a stern look onto his Hanyou friend Miroku, pushed him into the woods.

Kaede and Sango walked back to the small camp, and set up their bed rolls around Kagome's. Kaede pulled out a new lavender hued kimono and held it out to Kagome.

"Go and change, I'll tend to the kit until you return." She pulled Shippo from her hold and pressed the clothes into her hands. Sango looked to her, as if asking if she needed any help.

Kagome walked to the bushes located on the edge of the forest and quickly changed. She looked at the bloodstains that tarnished the garment, sighing she knew she would never be able to fix it. Slowly she began to comb out some of the tangles in her with her slender fingers. She began walking back, as she hit a particularly tough spot she gestured for Sango's help. Sango began to carefully untangle the beautiful mass of silken hair, the small smile she had turned into a frown as she pulled a single flower from Kagome's hair. Noticing Sango had stopped Kagome turned to see her friends pale face. Kaede gasped as she saw the dark purple flower now within Sango's trembling fingers.

"Kikyou."

Kagome's eyes widened, she took the flower from her grasp and laid down on her bedding. Shippo returned to her side as she twirled the flower. Each woman moved to their own beds around the young girl, silence claimed them. Blue eyes dulled as they watched the delicate petals sway with her movement, the importance of the meadow Kikyou had chosen was now clear to her. The brilliant flowers that caught her attention, that set the stage for her emptiness, and ultimately claimed everything she held dear in that small clearing was the Japanese Bellflower- Kikyou.

"She has followed us even here."

A mournful howl rose in the distance, Kagome turned and held Shippo close, sobbing quietly as she listened to Inuyasha's pain filled cries.

Thank you for waiting, and reading. I love all the reviews I have received so far. Please let me know what you think. This is the first fanfiction I have ever written so don't be afraid to leave me some constructive criticism. I apologize about the wait, I had a lot of work and some computer issues to take care of before I could upload this next chapter. But good news, now that I have these few chapters out of the way, I plan on updating sooner (and going back to fix some errors I see in the first few chapters.

*Yes it is going a bit slow between Sesshomaru and Kagome, but I plan for a juicy soul burning love between these two! You just have to wait and see… hehehe

~Lauree