Kagome snuck a glance at Sesshoumaru. He hadn't moved, but though his face remained stoic, his apprehension was potent, and she sent out a tendril of her power in turn, reiki sliding up his arm.
A smile touched the corner of the female daiyoukai's mouth, her relaxed demeanour doing nothing to calm Kagome's nerves. They were related, that much was obvious, but the ordeal with Naraku, as well as the revelation about Sesshoumaru's origins, had fractured her trust, and she wasn't about to yield without proof.
Her mother leaned closer, hand squeezing. "She won't hurt anyone."
"You let her in," Kagome said, realization dawning. Her connection with Sesshoumaru was one thing, but the only way someone of this calibre would've made it inside was by invitation.
"It would not be the first time," the female mused, sharing a knowing smile with Emiko.
"Mother—"
Kagome's mouth fell open as Sesshoumaru stepped forward. This was his mother?
"My dear son, it is good to see you back to your old self." Golden eyes shifted between him and Kagome, and heat crept into her face. "Though I suppose that is a relative term."
"The matter with the spider has been dealt with." His tone was so bland and matter-of-fact that if his mother hadn't placed her hand on his chest, Kagome would've intervened on his behalf.
"I am more concerned with your well-being than that of the pest which has been plaguing us these last few decades." There was a nonchalant air about them, more similarities floating to the surface, but Sesshoumaru's surprise was real, written plainly on his face, and Kagome's heart ached.
Was their relationship that stilted, or had he been alone so long that the thought of duty and revenge had clouded his judgement about those who cared for him?