Hi Hi

::Inu:: Shut up wench you should grovel to them for being so late

::Echoe:: I don't own him and I'll be quite

New Employment

~*~*~*The outskirts of Kien~*~*~*

Kagura looked ahead at the vast expanse of open land before her. She was sure she had felt it. Twice today the odd tingling feeling had overcome her, a warning. The repercussions of the magic used still hung in the air. It wasn't like it had been the first time. No the first time it had happened the power had reverberated around her making the air sing with the sweetness of it. No this time was different, two short outbursts small and weak, but they had the same feel. With a smile on her face she flicked her wrist opening her fan and swatting at the air. Yes she could feel it. The signature hanging in the air was so faint that she was sure even Naraku was unaware someone had used power twice today. The thought was refreshing to her. She liked knowing things he didn't and she wasn't about to let him in on her little secrets.

There it was again the faint feel of power it flared and she could feel it ever so slightly as it carried on the wind, her wind. Crimson eyes snapping in the direction of the east from which it blew she smiled wondering if she should go and check it out. Then again she was enjoying her freedom so much. Turning to look behind her down the road she had been traveling a frown creased on her delicate features, yes she would go. The more distance that she could put between herself and the palace the better. With that in mind, she turned down the road curious to see this source of power for her.

~*~*~*On the road~*~*~*

Mamoru looked at the members of the group as they traveled. Their pace was quick. He was sure the Shinkushikyou did not like the fact that they had been delayed in their dispatch. As it was now they traveled in the dark and though he hadn't done much traveling in his life, the people that surrounded him looked at ease like they were doing no more then talking a brief walk.

His eyes roaming over them, he took in the members of the group trying to etch them into his brain. There was the polite man that had sandy brown hair not unlike his own. Hojo he had found was friendliest of the group. The young man had already accepted him. Miroku was the man with a half smile on his face. Miroku was more serious than the other man though they appeared to be the same age he carried himself differently than Hojo more mature and more worn. Then there was the woman, she walked behind him bringing up the rear and he did not dare turn to look at her. As it was, he knew she was leery of him. He was sure they all were, but unlike the rest she made no attempt to hide her displeasure that he had joined their group.

Yasha he was tempted to say the name of the man out loud but knew better than that. Yasha was the one that he knew the least about as it was now he had yet to see the man's face. Though Yasha had turned his cloak inside out and was now clothed in black rather than the deep crimson, the hood remained firmly in place hiding the face and identity in shadows as just his name alone gave no clue to the mans features.

Mamoru had no illusions as to why he was here. It was painfully obvious now that he thought about it. His own words came back to haunt him reminding him why he was really here "Whether you let me go or not I will come with you". So that was why he was here Yasha hadn't wanted him blundering around behind them causing trouble and drawing attention to their group. Though it hurt his pride he could accept it, after all it had gotten him to come along hadn't it. His eyes turned to the little kid that was clinging to Yasha's shoulders, narrowing as he took in the kids appearance with his fluffy tail and red hair the kid stuck out like a sore thumb.

Shippo could feel eyes on him turning to look behind him he saw that the sandy haired human from the village was looking at him. His eyes narrowing he took in the man's appearance. He wasn't all that tall but had an air of respect around him. Though he himself wasn't about to show the man an ounce of it. Whether he had helped or not, in the end he had still stood there while his parents had been tortured and that was something that he was never going to forgive the vile human for.

His eyes shifting beyond him he took in the other members of the group. They all tried to hide their feelings from him, but he could feel their eyes on him every now and then. His eyes coming to rest on the woman he hated when she looked at him the most. Her eyes they reflected his own perfectly. The others he could shrug off their sympathy but not hers. The sadness in her eyes connected them in a way the others couldn't possibly understand.

Turning away from her he looked at the man next to him. 'Yasha.' Yasha was the name of the man that had saved him. It hurt to think that he had needed saving. Looking at the hood his lips curved into a frown, he wanted to see his face. Even as close as he was the older man somehow always managed to position himself so that his face was hidden in shadow away from his prying eyes. His curiosity getting the better of him he reached out leaning forward. It was then something unexpected happened a low throaty growl held him in place his hand hovering inches away from the edge of the hood. The sound had been quite enough he knew the others hadn't been able to hear but he got the warning loud and clear.

Yasha was pleased when the kid had stopped in his motions. The truth was he didn't mind if the kid saw him, but he wasn't ready to have Mamoru see his face. He couldn't quite put his finger on what put him off about the guy but he would find out and till then he wouldn't give him anymore information than he had to. In the game they played his face was the most important thing to keep hidden. A name could be changed but with features like his he could hardly blend into the crowd.

"Don't even think about it." He bit out, not wanting the kid to have any delusions that he could do a he pleased.

The harshness of Yasha's words startled Shippo. He had only wanted to see the mans face, what was the harm in that? But judging by the Yasha's reaction he had overstepped his bounds.

~*~*~*outside of Lacien~*~*~*

Ginta and Hakkaku looked at each other before turning to look at their captain who was sitting reclined against the trunk of a tree. There was a serious look on his face that had been there since he had come to retrieve them from Toll.

"Ah Captain." Ginta ventured though he didn't very much like the glare in Kouga's eyes as they swung around to meet them.

"What do you want?" he barked at his man with a scowl on his face. Pausing he looked at the two men sitting not that far away from him. He had known them both almost all his life and they were just as much his friends as they were soldiers under his charge, but not even that would save them from his foul mood.

"What he means to say is, are you sure that you want to get involved with them." Hakkaku said looking from Ginta to their captain.

"Whether I want to or not it is already done. They have already taken action and what was set into motion cannot be stopped." He understood what they were getting at. He had acted rashly he would admit that, but like he had said it was too late to back out. He would go through with his plan.

"But you're putting Kagome right in the middle of all this." Ginta said knowing that it probably wasn't the smartest thing to say her name when Kouga's bright blue eyes flashed with anger. He knew very well about his captains obsession with the human girl. It had all started when he had been assigned to watch over the Higurashi family. To watch over a little quirky girl who over the years had grown into a beautiful woman. He had also watched his captains feeling towards her change he was still protective but there was a gentleness about him that only came out when he was around her. It didn't make sense that he would make a deal knowing it put her in danger.

"Look I am the one in charge here, therefore what I say is not in question." Turning away from them he looked out into the darkness. Drawing his bottom lip into his mouth he continued to avoid looking at them. He didn't want them to see the guilt that he was sure was on his face. He was guilty 'Putting Kagome right in the middle of this' the thought stung, if only they knew. He hadn't just put her right in the middle she was already involved what he had done was hand over her death warrant. For that's what her name was. Higurashi, he was sure they would kill her for that name. He only hoped that he got to her in time. Time was something they didn't have the man on the road had no doubt already told someone of her secret. Kagome was going to die and it was all his fault.

~*~*~*the out skirts Kien~*~*~*

"Lord Sesshomaru?" the little toad man nervously looked up at his new master. The man had been quite since they had left the library. His passive face betrayed no emotion as the little man took in his lord. He wished his master was more expressive as of right now he had no idea as to what his lord was thinking about.

Sesshomaru glanced down at the little man that was walking next to him. The man's constant twittering was starting to get on his nerves.

"Be quiet fool."

"Yes of course." Biting his lip to keep from talking he continued to watch the man that towered over him.

Looking strait ahead Sesshomaru touched the piece of rolled paper that was now tucked into his belt. It had been the only scrap of new information he had found and judging by the missing pages from the book he had been lucky to find it. They were going to another library but he knew not to expect much. At least now he knew one thing it wasn't because the information didn't exist.

He had always suspected it but the scrap of paper he now carried with him confirmed it someone had gone through a lot of trouble to get rid of this information. It had to be important somehow. Someone had betrayed the Emperor and was covering their tracks.

The jewel, it was something new. If the jewel beckons the sword must answer.

No there wasn't enough information to think about that he had to focus on the sword the Tetsiguia. In the hands of it's unknown protector. Like that helped him any, just meant the sword could be anywhere.

Maybe he was looking for the wrong thing a sword that powerful would have to let off energy wouldn't it? With that in mind he thought of the burst of power that had disturbed him not that long ago. Could that have something to do with the sword? Though the idea was a little far fetched it was not one that he was about to rule out.

~*~*~*Jinenjis house~*~*~

Mamoru looked out over the open space that stretched before them. The sun had just crested the top of the trees lending the planted greenery a fairytale look. There was a small shack nestled on the knoll. What were they doing here? This was not the kind of place he had thought they would end up in. When he had left he thought they would be headed toward another village a place where they could make a difference not some little hole in the middle of nowhere. Looking at the other members of the group he look in there faces as they closed in on the house. None of them had said much on their walk through. Not fully comfortable to say anything he followed them into the house. The room was still dark but he could make out two figures lying on makeshift bedding.

The other members of their group didn't spare them much attention as they were headed toward a door which he guessed lead to the only other room in the house. Crowding into the room behind them he was startled to see a large man leaning against the wall who looked up as they entered. A hanyou he thought looking at the man but knowing it wouldn't be smart to say anything. Shifting his eyes away from the man he saw a pale woman laying on the futon. Her dark hair was spread out around her face while some of it was plastered to her forehead by sweat. Who was this girl?

Turning he looked at the members of his group. They were all intently focused on her. Whoever she was she was important it was written all over their face. Concern shone in their eyes. He could even tell Yasha was worried about her though he couldn't even see the man's face. He wanted to know more. He needed to know but he also got the impression that no one wanted to tell him. Who is she?

Hojo frowned at the sight before him Kongyou looked like death warmed over. Kneeling down he pressed his hand to her forehead and found that despite how her damp bangs were clinging there the skin was cold and clammy to his touch. His head shooting up he looked right at Jinenji.

"Is she supposed to be so cold?"

Yasha was alarmed by Hojo's words. Cold, she was cold? To look at her now he would think that she was burning up. Resisting the urge to push the man away he stood there waiting to see what they would do. By the looks of things Jinenji didn't appear shocked by this new information. So it was safe to say he already knew. Looking to the side moving away from the rest of the people in the room he took a seat. When Kagome didn't wake up he watched as one by one they left the room Hojo lingering longer than the others. Now that they were gone he focused his complete attention on the girl lying on the bed.

Her face was pale her eyelashes looking like dark smudges against her cheeks. He wanted to cross the room and gently shake her awake but knew better. Jinenji was still in the room, for a second the large mans presence annoyed him but he was the one who was taking care of her. Yasha didn't know how long he had been sitting there staring at Kagome but judging by the pale light making its way across the floor it had been a little over two hour since their arrival. Hearing rustling he turned to see that Jinenji had risen from his place and was making his way to the door.

With a sleep clouded mind Kagome struggled to open her eyes when much to her irritation she couldn't quite get the heavy lids open so she just laid there for a minute. Taking a deep breath she could feel the heat from the sun coming in the window. It felt nice on her skin. She felt warm and safe she couldn't really explain the feeling. Her lips curling into a half smile.

"Yasha." She said not as a name, but as a statement.

The warmth of the sun left her and she knew that he was standing above her. Forcing her eyes open she blinked the blur into focus. He was sitting next the bed looking down at her. He was home he was safe.

"Hey you look like crap." He said a smirk on her face when he saw a spark of anger in her brown depths. "How do you feel?" His hand reached out pushing some of her hair behind her ear. Letting his hand linger there a little before pulling away.

Letting the comment slide for now, her smile widened.

"You know I feel surprisingly well." It was the truth, she was awake and she felt better then she had for days. It was then she noticed the fuzzy little creature on Yasha's shoulder. What was it.

Yasha saw her eyes dart away from him to look at the kid who was sound asleep on his shoulder. Reaching up he grabbed the child by his tail holding him aloft in the air in front of Kagome. Her eyes widened as she realized just what he was holding and to his surprise it took the book slightly longer to wake up then he had thought it would.

"This is Shippo."

Kagome looked at what appeared to be a little boy though he had a big fluffy red orange tail and pawed feet. His hair was a bright shade of red as well. When you added all these things up it all came to one conclusion adorable. Sitting up she plucked the wriggling boy from Yasha's hand crushing him against her.

"You are so cute!" she squealed hugging the boy's small frame to her. The boy in Kagome's arms seemed to want to have nothing to do with her as he was squirming about doing his best to get out of her grasp.

"What do you think you are doing you filthy human let me go!" there was a ring of command in his voice and he was somewhat disappointed when the woman holding him captive lessened her grip but did not completely release him.

"I said let me go." Pulling out of her grasp he backed up shooting the man behind him a glare for allowing the woman to grab him like that. Narrowing his eyes he took in her pale pallor 'what an Ugly Human' he thought.

"You stink don't you even know bathe human or do you think that it's beneath you?"

"Hey!" Kagome said looking at the little kid who suddenly didn't seem so cute.

Shippo opened his mouth to say something else when he felt something hard thump him on the head.

"Watch what you say brat I'm going to teach you some manners." Yasha said narrowing his eyes at the child, before he turned his attention back to Kagome. "Besides it's not her fault she stinks."

Her eyes narrowing, she frowned looking down at her hands. What could she say she probably did stink after all she felt cruddy. Then again was it her fault she had just had to settle for using water from a bowl to wash herself with. Her hair probably looked terrible. Opening her mouth to say something she clamped her mouth shut. If she said something she would just dig herself a hole she could admit when she was wrong. Even if it meant admitting that she stunk

"She does though." Shippo said wrinkling his nose while looking at the human in front of him in distaste.

Focused on Shippo's face her gaze went to Yasha's hand that was resting on the boys head. Her eyes traveled up his hand to his face, to her displeasure he was still wearing his hood. Wanting to see his face she leaned forward her hands pushing back the material.

Shippo suddenly forgot about his argument with the thought of seeing Yasha's face. He had yet to see what his saviors face looked like. Turning he took in Yasha's strong features and piercing golden eyes, with silvery white hair framing his face. Atop his head were two little firry ears. a hanyou. Well he could see now why Yasha had not wanted anyone to see him being a Hanyou was hardly flattering. Still what surprised him the most was that he had let this filthy little human pull his hood back, when he had tried it all he had gotten was a growl and the brush off. Who was this human any way? If you asked him she looked like a dirty little ragamuffin. Opening his mouth he was silenced by Yasha from behind him.

"Shippo go in the other room." The boy didn't move instead he just stood there with a frown on his face. What the hell was up with people not listening to him these days? After a few more seconds the boy walked out of the room.

Looking down at her hands she took a deep breath trying to detect any of the foul odor that the two men said was there. Frowning she looked at the rumpled covers.

Yasha knelt there taking in the raven haired girl's expression.

"Do you want a bath?" he asked seeing that she was still miffed about the comment. Though the expression on her face was enough to make his own lips curl up in a half smile though he turned away as he stood so she wouldn't notice.

Yeah she did. But most of all she wanted to get up and walk somewhere. Moving to stand she found that he legs felt rubbery but at least there was no pain as she took a tentative step forward. With a smile she found there was no searing pain like there had been though her knees knocked together causing her to sway forward. Before she could right herself, hands steadied her shoulders.

His hands still on her shoulders he turned his head toward the other room catching the sound of his companions sleeping. Leaning forward he pulled Kagome to him before lifting her against his body bridal style.

"What are you doing put me down I want to walk."

"Of course you do but knowing you, you'll trip or something trying to get out of the house and just wake up the people sleeping in the other room."

"Oh."It made sense seeing as she was already stumbling and all she had done was stand up. 'He better not think that I'm still going to be carried around.' Opening her mouth to say something, Yasha cut her off

"Keep your voice down woman or you will totally defeat the purpose."

Seeing that she was about to open her mouth and protest some more he quickly continued. "I'll put you down as soon as were outside ok?"

It made sense after all now that she could see that the people were sleeping. She would feel bad if she woke them up. Frowning she looked at her friends sprawled out on the floor. Soon enough Yasha had her outside were he lowered her to the ground making sure she had her balance before he let her go.

"I'll be right back."

Looking at him she just nodded. The morning was beautiful and it made her lips curl up into a smile. It felt so good to be outside after being cooped up in that room for a little over six days the fresh air on her skin felt heavenly. Tilting her head up to the sky she closed her eyes just enjoying the feeling. Taking a tentative step forward she put her arms out. Not able to resist the urge she flung her arms out and began to spin in circles. Laughing a little paused her face still up turned.

Yasha stood in the door way looking at the girl before him. She was beautiful, if not a bit odd. Taking a deep breath he walked past her.

"Are you going to stand there all day or are you coming?" suppressing a smile he heard her follow after him.

_________-

Kagome looked at the ground beneath her feet avoiding the branches and any rocks laying on the ground, she wasn't about to take any chances. There was a slight limp to her step but she figured it was something that would go away seeing as it had already lessened as she walked.

"I see that you remembered how to walk. Or maybe you learned while I was away."

Glancing out of the corner of his eye he saw Kagome had her eyes fixated on the ground like it was the most interesting she had ever seen. Her lower lip was caught in her teeth and a look of concentration graced her features. Looking at the amount of concentration she was putting into walking, one could almost imagine she really was just learning how to walk. What was the girl afraid she was going to trip at any moment. Then again knowing what he knew about her maybe she should be afraid she might trip and fall over at any moment "You know at the rate you're going it's going to take forever for you to get there."

"Well excuse me for not running ahead." She bit out, he knew perfectly well why she was being hesitant. She never wanted to go through an experience like that ever again and her he was rushing her.

"It's going to take over an hour at this rate."

'An hour' frowning she thought of how grimy she felt it was only an hour more and she was happy to be walking around again but the thought of a bath was just too enticing.

__________-

When had did I start to enjoy this? The thought course through his head. Since when had putting up with a whiny girl ever been high on his list of priorities? Still he was enjoying her company more enjoying having her close to him. Picking up speed her felt her arms tighten around his neck.

With the cool air on her face she wished again she could move like this. Closing her eyes she tilted her head back a little. She wondered if Yasha enjoyed the rush or even if he took the time to think about it. Probably not, if she had noticed one thing about her new traveling companion, it was that he didn't really take time to enjoy the little things.

Almost too soon she was being lowered to the ground in front of a small stream with a cry of glee she took a step forward almost forgetting Yasha was there. Remembering their last bathing outing her checks colored and she told him to turn around. He did so holding his hand out behind him with a small cake of soap.

Smiling she turned toward the water giving Yasha one more backward glance before disrobing and hurrying into the water. It was cool maybe even a little on the cold side but to her it felt like heaven. Going under the water she worked out some of the tangles in hair before lathering it with the soap. It was the same soap she had used before taking a deep breath she relished the sent if only because it reminded her of a certain silver haired man who was sitting on the shore.

Though she was enjoying the water she washed quickly before getting out she would rather spend the extra time walking, because she fully intended to walk all the way back hour or not

There was a cloth laying the shore for her to dry with looking down at the rumpled clothes she had diss guarded a frown tugged at her lips. They looked wrinkled and no about now that she was clean she would be able to detect the odor Shippo had been talking about earlier. Sighing she wondered if she should wash them, but if she did what would she wear surely Yasha didn't want to sit around while she waited for them the dry. Muttering under her breath she shook out the ugly black material dreading putting it back on.

"This if from Jinenjis Mom."

Before she could ask what he was talking about material hit her in the face. Reaching out she caught it before it fell to the ground looking down she saw that it was a dress. Fingering the soft gray material she looked up at Yasha then back down to the dress in her hands.

Wrapped inside the gray material was a dark blue over dress it was nothing fancy but it was sure a lot better than the black bag she had been wearing. Slipping on the long gray dress she was delighted to find that the material was actually as soft against her skin as it looked. Pulling the dark blue over dress on she noticed that it split open on the side with lighter blue ribbons laced threw it so she could tighten it.

Spinning around she marveled at her new gift. Her knees buckling she fell to the ground.

Hearing a soft thud Yasha turned to see that Kagome was kneeling on the ground her head down obscuring her face with a curtain of dark hair. Closing the distance he knelt down next to her, his lips parting to insult her on how maybe she hadn't learned how to walk that good in his absence after all. Though the words never left his mouth as he took in her appearance, her fingers were digging into the spongy dirt, placing his hands on her shoulders he could feel the fine tremors running threw her body.

Kagome couldn't explain what was happening with her eyes closed she saw the sun rise and set as clouds crossed the sky at impossible speeds. Much like the day before it was like days were passing and she was staying in one place. Trying to calm herself she waited, slowly the days stopped coming to a stand still. Dark grey clouds had expaneded covering the sky and as she looked up a clap of thunder filled the air.

The sound was like a herald and rain started pouring down coating her body making her clothes warm and slick feeling. The warmth was odd rain wasn't supposed to be this warm. Looking at her hands they were covered with a thick red liquid. Blood her hands were covered with blood. She could feel the warm oozing liquid sliding down her face. Looking out the ground was covered in it. It looked as if the sky had opened up pouring down showers of the foul red liquid.

Out the corner of her eye something caught her attention. There was something resting in the puddle of blood. Her insides contracted and she wanted to look away but something drew her eyes to that point wanting her to see more. Turning her head the first thing that came into her vision was a sword. Its golden guard was broken and cracked she could see the missing pieces laying next to it on the ground. the leather covering the grip had started to unravel. No… dread clenched at her heart and she wished she could turn away.

"Kagome!" there was urgency his voice. Shaking her he called her name again. What was going on. Her eyes were open but staring blankly ahead her usually sharp eyes dull and unfocused.

A name, her name broke threw to her making her blink. When she opened her eyes again the blood was gone replaced by the soft grass beneath her fingers. Feeling pressure on her shoulders she became aware for the first time that someone was shaking her. Looking up she saw Yasha's concerned face hovering in front of her. 'Great now he's going to think I'm crazy.' Was her first thought followed by embarrassment?

Yasha looked at the woman in front of him her eyes were focused now and there were tears at their corners. A slight smile touched the corner of her lips but he had the feeling it was more for his benefit then her own.

Kagome tried to keep the smile on her face but the eerie feeling that had plagued her was still there making her feel cold. It was only when she felt the callused tip of Yasha's finger brush against her cheek that she realized she was crying. Pulling away she hated crying front of Yasha tilting her head down so her eyes stayed hidden in her bangs she looked to the side before moving to stand. Much to her surprised she felt Yasha's arms go around her crushing her to his chest.

She wanted to pull away, she knew she should pull away she was becoming way to attached to her golden eyed protected but safe in his arms she didn't have the strength to back away. Bringing her arms up she wrapped them around him pulling herself closer.

She had hugged him before but it had never felt this desperate. Now it felt different pressing her face against him she hesitated to bring her hands up. His hold was tight yet awkward, like her he wasn't used to doing things like this. That only made her appreciate it more as she borrowed some of his strength to sooth her frazzled nerves. She could feel his hand brush against her damp hair in a comforting motion.

Closing her eyes she tried to gather herself, but the action proved to be a mistake as an after image of blood flashed through her vision. Her eyes snapping open, goose bumps rose on her skin with the image she tried to pull away to shake some sense into herself. Pushing back she felt Yasha's hands on her holding her in place.

Her eyes had clouded over with panic and he shook her, though this time the action appeared to have no effect on the girl. What the hell was happening?

"Hey wench what the hells your problem I knew you had trouble walking but I didn't think you had sanity problems." That got a reaction out of her as she blinked anger sparked in her eyes. "What do you look so scared for anyway, I would let something hurt you?" His words finally did the trick she took a deep breath her eyes drifting shut as her forehead feel against his shoulder. Scooping her into his arms he stood. What was going on here?

There was a feeling of weightlessness and she knew that she was being carried. She didn't really mind so much. To tell the truth she felt tired and worn and it felt good. But she needed to be doing something, anything to keep her mind occupied.

"Put me down right now I want to walk." She said though she sounded tired even to her own ears.

"Now where have I heard those words before? And if I'm right they are usually followed by you making a fool of yourself and practically falling on your face." There was humor in his voice but it only served to irk the girl.

"I said it and I mean it now put me down." Looking at him through half opened eyes she steadied herself as her feet touched the ground.

Would he ever meet a more stubborn woman? Looking at her out of the corner of his eye they walked in silence.

"Why did you bring him with you? Shippo, I mean. I wouldn't think that you would want to drag a child around."

"Yeah I kind of have my hands full with you but I'm sure that he's more behaved then you and I already know that he listens better."

Kagome frowned hitting him in the shoulder.

"Hey I resent that I listen to you." 'Although I don't always do what you tell me to' she added to herself still waiting for an answer.

"But your right this isn't the place for him, but I couldn't leave him there who knows what they would do to him."

"What they would do to him? He's just a child."

Stopping he looked at Kagome's back as she took a few more steps before pausing to wait for him.

"What's it like," seeing a puzzled expression on her face he continued on, "to be so naïve?"

Naïve, he thought she was naïve? For just asking a question?

Seeing the confusion still on her face he frowned before speaking again,

"They don't care Kagome, whether he's a kid or not, it doesn't matter to them. They would rip him limb from limb and not have a second thought about it."

His cold words sent a chill up her spine. The scary thing was the way they rang true and with that came the realization that he was right. The imperial soldiers would be merciless to the small child. Bowing her head she closed her eyes for a few seconds before looking up and starting to walk again.

"Then I'm glad you brought him with you I would hate for anything to happen to the cute little guy." He didn't say anything to her remark. His silence only confirmed her fears as her thoughts tumbled out of her mouth "But something did happen to him didn't it? That's why he's really here?" sadness entered into her voice as she thought of the real reason the little boy might be with them.

"Yeah."

"Oh. I'll take care of him then." She said without a second thought. "What happened there in Obin?"

Looking at her he didn't really know if he wanted to tell this girl what happened in the small village. He didn't want to see her eyes darken with sadness and despair. It wouldn't suit her. She should always be smiling and happy. His Kagome should never have to cry.

Shifting through what had happened he knew, he didn't want to tell her anything. Nothing good had happened in that cursed town. He didn't want her to know.

"Bad things happened there, bad things you don't need to hear about."

His voice was far away. Opening her mouth she was about to ask again but realized he wasn't about to give her any more information about what had happened.

"So you don't trust me enough to tell me still think that I'm a spy?" hurt that her words might be true spiced her voice making it rise.

"You foolish little girl!" stopping again he caught her brown eyes with his golden ones.

"You really want to know what happened there? Do you think your delicate little mind can comprehend what's going on?! You should be happy you don't know." And she should be, it angered him that she wanted to know. What he wouldn't give to forget some of the things he knew. He woke up everyday wishing things were different, but they weren't. Then here was this little girl who wanted to throw herself right in the middle of it all.

"Maybe I should be happy I don't know but I'm not. Just because I don't know what happened doesn't mean that it's not happening." Her words only served to make the man at her side madder.

"My point exactly it's going to happen whether you know about it or not so why know, if it doesn't make a difference? If you don't have to… stay the way you are as long as you can." crossing his arms over his chest he walked past her knowing she had no choice but to follow.

"It makes a difference to me!" yelling she quickened her pace to catch up with him only to have him spin around to face her. Not prepared for the sudden stop she stumbled back but hands closed around her upper arms holding her in place.

"It's none of your business." His words were cold and he knew they were but at this point he was far from caring.

"I would say it is my business in case you are forgetting who I am. I am Higurashi Kagome and I deserve to know." Who was he to think that he could keep her in the dark? His golden eyes flashing she knew rubbing her name in his face wasn't the smartest thing to do.

"How could I forget!" he bit the words out leaned toward her as he shook her none to gently. "The great Higurashi's daughter."

She didn't like the way he said the name. He said it the same way he had when he had first met her, like it was a vile dirty word. Narrowing her eyes in defiance she stared up into his flashing dangerous eyes.

"The things I could tell you little girl. I could tell you things that would make you afraid to sleep. I could tell you things that would scar you for life and that's just some of the things that I've done. And I am the good guy here, the one with morals so why don't you take the most terrible things that you've ever imagined and then multiply it by a hundred and then maybe you might have an inkling of what's happening around you in the real world."

Taken back by his words she could do nothing but look at him the venom in his voice and he looked like he meant it. Had the man in front of her really done such terrible things? Tears prickled the corners of her eyes but she refused, she would not cry. Not in front of him.

Tears were pooling at the corners of her eyes and he bowed his head cursing himself softly. 'Damn this woman never does anything the easy way does she.' Still guilt bit at him for talking to her so harshly she just knew how to get under his skin.

"I don't tell you because I don't want you to know. Because I don't want you to think about such terrible things."

Opening her mouth she was about to yell at him for being such an ass, but the look in his eyes caused her to hold her tongue. At least for now she would settle for that answer but this conversation was far from over.

"I can accept that for now." There was a ringing finality in her voice.

Frowning he resisted the urge to shake her one more time.

With the look in his eyes she knew she had won well she hadn't really won but she didn't like to think she had lost. Only then did she notice how close his face was to hers causing her cheeks to heat up. Like he could read her mind his own cheeks tinged a light pink. And he took a step back his hands still lingering on her arms briefly before he turned.

'what the hell' looking strait ahead he frowned. How could she make him feel bad for not telling her stuff she didn't even need to know?

"You better, because that's all you're going to get wench."

Scowling she walked behind him.

As they continued on he looked over to the infuriating woman walking next to him. She was limping slightly. Looking at her ankle he couldn't help but wonder if it was still painful.

"Does it hurt?"

Startled by his question her head snapped up to look at the man next to her. There appeared to be genuine concern on his face and it made her smile as she rushed to reassure him.

"No it doesn't. It just feels really stiff." He said nothing just nodded before turning his head to look strait ahead once again. Not knowing what else to say she did the same.

As they continued walking something touched his shoulder. Without looking down he knew that it was Kagome leaning against him. Her breathing had quieted and he knew that she was tired. Before he had left Jinenjis mother had warned him that she would get tired really easily.

Looking down at her now he saw that her eyes were closed. Stopping he felt her sag against him and knew that she was asleep. A smile quirking his lips he scooped her up moving so she was positioned on his back piggy back style. Her head lulled against his neck as the sound of her soft breath filled his ears. Looking ahead he considered picking up his pace but thought better of it as he continued on his way.

_________-

"Kagome, Kagome." The sound of her name brought her out her blissful state of sleep. Wait a second sleep when did she fall asleep? And she was moving immediately her brain filled in that Yasha was the one carrying her. Blinking a few times to bring the world back into focus she was met by the sight of the small hut not far away she had missed the entire walk.

"Great how long have I been asleep?"

"A while now almost the entire trip. At first I thought that you were just coming on to me."

"Like I would ever come on to you."

Though he knew she was just teasing him for some reason her words irked at his nerves. "You could have fooled me seeing as your always throwing yourself at me."

"No I'm not." Thinking back she thought of all the times that she had thrown herself at him for a quick embrace. No she hadn't been throwing herself at him she had been thankful and that was something different. The way he said it, sounded like he was talking about some desperate hussy. "Put me down!" Yasha's hands let go of her knees and seeing she hadn't been consciously holding on to him she fell to the ground.

"Hey. That was rude."

"You said to put you down."

"I meant to sit me down."

"Well you are sitting." A smile curled on his lips. He could picture the look on her face. It had him tempted to turn around. Instead he just stood there because he knew it would make her more irritated. Something was wrong though. There was no sound of irritation or arguing coming from behind him. Instead only the light sound of breathing reached his ears. Turning hesitantly he saw Kagome was sitting on the ground her head bowed her mouth was set in a strait line, and her eyes were focused on her own hands clasped in her lap.

"You don't have to pout."

"Who said that I was pouting?"

"No one has to say it the tilt of your head gives everything away." At that her head snapped up her flashing brown eyes meeting his.

"Look we're almost there. You can either get up and start walking or I can leave you here. By the way your acting you're lucky I just don't take you over my knee and teach you some manners.

Her eyes widening Kagome she frowned as she looked at the man towering above her.

"You wouldn't dare."

"You know I would. But I would prefer not to at least not right now because then only the lord knows how long I would have to put up with your sulking."

"If I didn't keep you in line I would hate to see how big your ego could get."

"Feh." Turning away from her he started to walk toward the hut that loomed in the distance.

"Thank you."

Thank you the words reached his ears causing him to pause almost like she had placed a hand upon him. Turning slightly he looked to see she had gotten to her feet.

"No problem."

He was still standing there, though he was no longer looking at her but strait ahead. She waited for the snappy come back, but it never came. Taking a step forward to stand next to him they began walking.

When they arrived back at Jinenjis the others rushed out to meet them. Sango had a smile on her face. Hojo inquired how her ankle had faired. Looking at them she noticed another new face in their group. Her eyes focusing on the brown haired man she took a step forward looking at Yasha out of the corner of her eye. To her surprise she saw he had slipped his hood back on.

"Kongyou this is Mamoru." Yasha said taking a step up to her side studying the man as his eyes roamed over the woman standing next to him surpassing a growl he watched them shake hands and introduce themselves. Though much to his pleasure she had appeared all too eager for him to release her hand.

Looking behind the man Kagome saw Shippo was still standing by the door all by himself. With a smile on her face she walked past the other members of the group kneeling down next to him.

"It's good to know you know how to clean yourself. From now on you shall be my new servant."

Sango's mouth dropped open. She had gathered from the walk back that the child had been a spoiled little brat. Taking a step forward she wasn't about to let the little brat take advantage of her friend. Looking to her side she saw that Hojo wasn't about to stand for the little kid talking to Kagome in such a manor either.

Kagome heard her friends move behind her glancing over her shoulder she saw they were about to say something when she shook her head for them to be quite. Whatever had happened to the small child, she was sure the last thing he needed right now was someone lecturing him. There would be time for her to straighten things out later.

"I would honored Shippo." She said taking the young boys hand in hers and giving it a light squeeze.

"You will call me master, Slave." He said looking at the dark haired human girl in front of him. Hearing a growl he looked behind her to see that the cloaked man was standing there.

"You will show some respect her name is Kongyou now use it runt." Yasha spit out looking at Shippo with a frown even though he knew that the small boy couldn't see it, he hoped he could feel his displeasure.

Like he's one to talk she thought feeling Yasha move to stand behind her. The man called her all sorts of things. Sometimes she wondered if he even knew her real name.

"I wish to take a nap servant Kongyou. Seeing as the bed you occupied is the only one in this hole you will need to prepare it for me."

"Yes I'm sure the sheets need to be changed any way." She said looking to Jinenjis mom she smiled. "Do you have any extra sheets?"

"Yes let me get them for you."

__________-

Shippo watched as his new servant changed the bottom part of the sheets. Before he could do anything he felt her hands close around his sides flinging him on the bed. Looking at her he was about yell that as his slave she should learn her place. Before he could say anything the top sheet closed down on him just touching him before it fluttered into the air again. As she did this a few times he couldn't help but enjoy something he had done so many times before. Of its own accord a smile spread across his face.

Seeing her new small charge was smiling she leaned forward letting the top sheet go as she reached for the boys feet tickling them.

Shippo couldn't help the laughter that bubbled out of him as the woman grabbed at his feet. Looking up he saw the woman as she was outlined by the sun that poured in the window catching the sheet that fluttered down to cover the both. Blinking for an instant her black hair turned a fiery red and her eyes were no longer brown but a brilliant green. 'Mom' just as soon as the word came to his mind the vision was replaced and his new servant was standing in her rightful place once again. Drawing back he rolled off the bed turning and heading toward the door. He could hear the woman behind him moving to follow, not that it mattered if he needed to he could out run her.

Yasha had heard the peals of laughter coming out of the small room. The tinkling of the small child's as well as the deeper melody of Kagome's that was why he was surprised to see Shippo bound out of the room with his new little maid servant following close behind. Shippo made it out the front door, moving away from the wall he was prepared to follow. As if Kagome knew his intentions she paused giving him a slight nodded before turning on her heel and rushing out the door.

The gesture had been a reassuring one. The kid may have be a spoiled brat but the laughter he had heard coming out of the room only moments ago eased his nerves. If anyone one could help heal the kids heart it would be Kagome. Settling back against the wall he wondered what she would do with the child one she caught him.

_________-

Shippo ran blindly, He knew that woman had followed him but he could no longer hear anything over the sound of his own sobs. Reaching the edge of the woods he threw himself to the ground. How could he have done something like that something that he had only done with his mother? "You will not be so easily replaced" the words came out under his breath in a choked oath.

"You know you're pretty fast I didn't think I would ever catch up with you." Kagome said coming up behind the kid out of breath as she kneeled on the ground. The sobs cut at her heart and she once again wished she knew what had happened to the boy.

"Go away I do not want you any where near me."

If he was expecting her to actually listen to him and leave he was in for a disappointment. Looking at his hunched little form she reached out her hand resting it on his back. Her brother had been like this when he cried as a child. It had been stuffed into his head that crying was childish and unbefitting of him, no doubt this child suffered from the same problem.

"But I'm your servant how else am I supposed to know when you need me if I'm not near you?"

"I said to go away I do not want you anywhere near me."

__________-

From the tree line two figures crouched in the bushes taking in the scene before them.

"Is that her?"

"It must be, I didn't think she would be so foolish as to come out here on her own. This is almost too easy."

________-

Kagome watched the child cry feeling a little guilty for she wanted to reach out and hold the small boy to her but she knew his pride would not allow him to be comforted. At least not by her, so she sat on the ground next to him, her hand still resting against his shaking back.

"I told you to leave. You filthy human follow orders or I will have you pun...." A snap in the woods caught his attention jerking him away from his current thoughts. The air felt tense and only then did he feel the eyes upon them. It was too late to shout a warning before he could say anything there was a jarring sensation as he felt himself being pushed out of the way.

"Run Shippo." The words filled the air as he turned to see the girl next to him was scrambling to her feet a panicked expression on her face. She was moving between him and the sound he had heard. It was more than just a sound the tension was so thick even her dull human senses had picked up the danger.

Run Shippo. The words were said with force. There was a protective bite to them and he knew he could not disobey. Turning he ran he ran for all he was worth. 'That's right run away.' The snide voice inside his head told him.

"My what a feisty one you are." The words had been spoken at a normal level but for how they had sounded in his ears they may have been shouted. The man's gruff voice cut through his panic bring his body to a holt. She had been trying to protect him and he was running away.

"Let me go." The scream ripped tough the air. He knew that sound, the sound of desperation. Turning he expected to see them struggling but the clearing was empty as if they has spirited the girl away.

His blood ran clod as his eyes once again swept the clearing. His servant was gone along with her captors. Shippo run the words came to his mind once again. She was just a servant but she was also a girl and helpless and what had he done? He had ran away, and she had paid the price of his cowardice.

_____________-

Yasha watched as the small boy made his way over the slight hill. As Shippo got closer he still looked at the hill expecting to see Kagome come walking into view at any moment. When she didn't he returned his attention back to the boy.

"Hey where is Kongyou?"

"My servant is now otherwise employed."

To be continued........ review for more hehehe

I haven't written in a while so it might be a little rusty just tell me what you think.

Wow that was a lot of reviews since I looked at my comp so heheh I would like to give a great big collective thanks to everyone because if you hadn't of reviewed who knows this chapter might not have happened. Love ya guys.

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