InuYasha had grown rather accustomed to sleepless nights in Kagome's absence. The void she'd left had been intense and howling, and he had spent much of his time doing his best to occupy his mind and keep himself busy to avoid the glaringly obvious heartache that seemed all too familiar. He would wander the city streets, occasionally recruiting Harusuke out along with him to the night district where the city life thrived beneath the stars. Or sometimes he would find himself in the library, looking through the histories of his people. He didn't need to sleep the same way he used to, now he could probably go weeks without a traditional "rest". He would lie in his bed a few hours before sunrise and doze, eyes racing behind closed lids as his mind seemed to go over every detail of Kagome's sweet face.
It was often lonely.
Every day his spirit longed for its other half.
But now she was here.
Wrapped in his arms, sleeping so soundly with her head resting on his chest. Long dark hair spilled around them like rivers of black ink, her breath coming in slow and soft through gently parted pink lips. She was so impossibly perfect in his eyes. It seemed that during their time apart she had grown even more lovely than he remembered, if that were even possible. He traced his fingers along her high cheekbones, her upturned nose, her dark arched brows, those plump lips that called to him so temptingly. She had thrown her leg over him as she fell deeper into her slumber, her body so warm and soft he could not bring himself to move even if he wanted to.
He wasn't tired, he spent the night looking at her, admiring all the little things he'd missed while they'd been separated. For weeks he'd been dreaming of this, and he would tear apart anyone who dared to disturb them now. The hours passed, and he watched the light change from the pale moon, to the warm rays of the sun as it began to crest over the mountains. Birds began their early morning songs, and he waited idly for her to wake, lazily running his claws over her softness.
He didn't know what the day would hold.
That thought was playing over and over again in his mind, and anxiety twisted in his belly. There were still so many things left for them to talk about, and they needed to get on the same page with everyone else too.
He sighed heavily through his nose.
After thinking about it a bit more, he understood why Sesshomaru had been so agitated.
It was a lot of responsibility trying to deal with outsiders in their community, and now that all fell to him as well. He was worried about the others and what they would do with themselves here, if they could even begin to fit in. With Shippo he wasn't too concerned, he actually thought the kitsune could help entertain Rin a bit, he figured the kid must get lonely around all these uptight Inu's. It would probably be good for the both of them to have a little time to actually be children for once.
He traced patterns on her skin with one hand as he was lost in his thoughts, the other folded up behind his head to prop it up. Sunlight filtered in through the open windows, slowly filling the room. Before long Kagome began to stir, her eyelashes fluttering as she slowly came awake with a wide yawn.
It took her a moment to realize where she was, and that the mound of very hard muscled flesh beneath her was not, in fact, a pillow.
He watched bemusedly, a smile curving at his lips as her eyes finally flickered sleepily over his face.
"You're still here." Her voice was scratchy from sleep, but it was heavily laced with relief, mahogany eyes catching the early morning light, almost glowing gold.
InuYasha was left breathless for a long moment as he could only stare at her in awe.
Her beauty was incomparable.
Her skin glowed with the luminescence of crushed pearls, irises glimmering, framed by thick eye lashes that curled upwards femininely.
Wordlessly, he grabbed her hand, pressing a tender kiss to her knuckles. "Of course I am, Kagome…"
In that moment he was so happy he could feel it radiating warmly out from his chest like rays of sunshine that dappled light across her blushed cheeks.
His hands found purchase in the thickness of her thighs possessively, his fingers sinking into the flesh there as he held her gaze with a deep seriousness.
"We will never be apart again."
Their lips met softly, lovingly. He took pleasure in feeling her body ease into him; her lips were slow and tender, and she was smiling between kisses.
They stayed blissfully intertwined until a swift knock at the door shattered their slice of peace.
"Who is it?" InuYasha groused, pulling Kagome closer possessively and nuzzling his face into her neck as she dozed sleepily, her eyes barely starting to blink open at the sudden noise.
"Tsune" said one shrill voice,
"And Maki." Said the next.
Blinking the fogginess away, he eased away from Kagome to sit up.
"We'll be out in a minute. Have breakfast brought for us and the rest of our companions in the front room, please."
"Hai, my lord." They spoke in unison, their voices sounding as one through the paneled door.
With the two of them off to do as he asked, he turned back to his lover with a crooked smile.
"Good morning…"
He murmured, running his fingers down her spine, leaning in to press a soft kiss to her forehead and breathing deeply of her scent as he did so.
She yawned and stretched atop the luxurious futon, silk sheets draping off of her curvaceous frame as she fully came awake.
"Hello there." She yawned, her eyes crinkling with a smile. Kagome sat up, rubbing her eyes. The fur and silk fell away, leaving her completely on display to his hungry gaze. The rays of the rising sun pouring in from the window backlit her endless waves of dark hair that flowed down to her waist, draping over her plump breasts. The wine colored curtains that lined the bed billowed around her in the breeze. She was so beautiful.
"As much as I love seeing you like this, we should dress…" he murmured, reaching over to trace his hands over her pale skin. She shivered, leaning into his touch. "I have a few spare things in here I believe… I'm sorry to say this, but it's probably for the best if you tried to wear something… current, while you're here." He said apologetically, his heavy brows knitting together with worry as he chewed on his lip. The last thing he wanted was to upset her, but they had to be careful in the palace. And drawing unnecessary attention to themselves was out of the question.
Kagome nodded, squeezing his hand reassuringly.
"I understand completely."
Internally he sighed with relief, giving her a loving kiss to show his appreciation. I'm
When their lips parted he stood and began to gather all of his garments. He gave her an easy smile as he pulled his black kimono over his shoulders, the red crest standing out against the dark fabric as his fingers deftly fasted the ties on his hakama next.
Kagome watched from her position on the futon , grasping a bit of fur close to her body to cover herself. Her observant gaze flickered over to the robe of the fire rat, hanging on the wall directly across from the bed, and then back to him. He almost seemed to avoid her eyes as he pulled the black silk tighter around himself.
"Why don't you wear it anymore?" She asked softly.
There was a long, drawn out moment of silence as he seemed to chew on his words. This was a conversation that they couldn't avoid. But he didn't want to relive it. It all seemed so… far away from where he stood now.
"There's no easy way to say this…" he sighed finally, rubbing his hand over his eyes tiredly.
"I met your father, Kagome. Tsukuyomi, he- he changed me. He did what always should have been done."
He hung his head, his silver hair casting his face in shadow.
Her heartbeat echoed in her ears. She clutched the blanket tighter, eyes going as wide as dinner plates.
"What do you mean?" She asked breathlessly, suddenly growing unsure as the back of her neck began to tingle.
"I was half dead, pretty much. Sesshomaru saved me, if you can believe it." He chuckled darkly, shaking his head. "I got injured…" he continued, reluctance lacing his tone. For some reason, he felt like it wasn't the right moment to mention the band of seven. Something told him to hold onto that for now, so he quickly skirted around just how he managed to become so fatally wounded in the first place. "Badly. Sesshomaru found me and brought me to Tsukyomi's temple."
Kagome could only sit there, frozen in stunned silence as she tried to absorb what he had said.
After a moment InuYasha came to sit beside her, grabbing her hand and holding it close to his heart with passion shining vehemently in his firey eyes.
"He healed me, and when I woke up I was different. I'm not a Hanyou anymore, Kagome…"
He held her gaze, as if wanting to nail in every word.
"But I was never supposed to be."
The tingling in her neck intensified, almost burning as she waited with baited breath for him to continue.
"It's difficult to explain… but when each heir is born they're taken and blessed by Tsukuyomi and given the mark of the moon. But when I was born my mother couldn't do that without my father, of course… so when Sesshomaru took me to the temple he made things right. " He cast his gaze away, his eyes lost in thought as they reflected the tranquility from outside. His stomach turned with unease but he forced himself to keep going. Kagome was silent, listening, and she deserved to know everything, the whole truth.
He took a deep breath, centering himself.
"I'm sure you've noticed that I have the markings now.." he gestured to the jagged purple streaks across his cheeks and hands, watching her wide mahogany eyes track his movements, though she stayed quiet, listening. "Your father healed my injuries and made me whole… his magic did something to the human side of me, I still haven't figured it out for sure, but it feels… it feels gone…" he trailed off hesitantly, avoiding her searching gaze as she seemed to examine every inch of him wordlessly. Her eyes shone with tears and he could feel his chest tightening, his heart squeezing inside his chest because suddenly he was afraid he'd said something wrong.
"But I have a place here now. A real place. Sesshomaru and I can actually be in the same room without going for each other's throats and I'm just now finding things out about my people that I never thought I could be a part of… about myself."
He swallowed the heavy lump in his throat, his fingers tightening around hers.
"This is what my father wanted, what was always meant to happen."
Finally, he forced himself to meet her shining eyes, a stone settling in his stomach as her lips quivered and crystalline tears dripped down her blushed cheeks.
His anxiety rang in his ears for one long, ragged heart beat before she was launching herself into his arms.
"Oh, inu!" She sobbed, grasping onto him as if he might fade away before her eyes.
Her stomach had felt like it was in her throat for the entirety of the conversation, her knuckles white from where her hand was clenched in her lap.
"I'm so sorry you had to go through that alone." She whispered into his silver hair, uncaring of her nakedness even as a chill raced across her skin.
But his warm arms instantly wrapped around her, his body responding to hers instinctively, pulling her close as she shook with emotion. He could feel her sadness, her pain that she had been absent for so much. It was all he could do to just reassure her in that moment, whispering into her ear and kissing the side of her face lovingly.
"Hey, don't cry, 'gome. I'm okay now, I promise. I've never been more okay." InuYasha murmured against her skin, rubbing slow circles into the bare skin of her smooth back.
"I should've been here.." she hiccupped solemnly against him, her voice cracking pitifully.
"No," he shook his head, "it happened the way it did for a reason. There's no use in thinking about what ifs…"
She pulled away to look at him with her eyes glistening and warm, a watery smile curving at her full lips.
"When did you get so wise, huh?" She sniffled, wiping away the tear tracks on her cheeks, the other hand still firmly wrapped in his.
He chuckled, pulling her in for a sweet, chaste kiss.
Her energy calmed, and after a few more moments spent wrapped up together they finally pulled apart and InuYasha helped Kagome dress herself for the day.
She had never been one to don the typical clothing in the edo period, she was virtually clueless when it came to such things. But she knew enough to know that she looked absolutely ridiculous in her mate's spare kimono and hakama. The fabric swallowed her up, draping off of her small frame even as he helped her to fasten it as tight as it would go.
"We'll have some things made for you today, don't worry." He assured her as they finally left the secluded privacy of his den, walking out into the open sitting room.
The fire crackled warmly in the heart and the windows had been thrown open, which was a clear indicator that the kitsune had been in here.
Just as they thought crossed his mind the two identical yokai popped up in the opposite doorway, bowing in unison.
"Your guests are taking breakfast in the front room, my Lord." One of them addressed him softly.
"Thanks. Have Haru meet us here, if you can."
Kagome stood beside him with a curious look on her face, eyeing the twins with interest, but she said nothing as he spoke to the two of them.
"Yes , my lord." They said together before bowing out of the room.
Kagome tossed him a quizzical look.
"Well they're quite an odd pair."
"You're right about that." He laughed, his eyes crinkling in the corners in a way that had her stomach filling with butterflies. With him by her side she felt safe, and fairly relaxed for the circumstances. Though, she could easily admit everything still felt so strange.
It was a lot of information to take in, and it hardly felt real even as she saw the marks across his skin with her very own eyes. It would take some getting used to, but he didn't seem all too different. His aura was much calmer now. The air around him seemed to hold a sense of control that he'd certainly lacked at one point. But all the same, he was still the Inu she'd fallen so desperately in love with all those moons ago.
His hand encased her own, pulling her out into the hallway and out of her own thoughts.
Now that she was a bit more observant, she couldn't help but look around her in awe. Something as simple as a hallway became elegant and draped in luxury. The walls were paneled in rich wood, pillars painted a deep red marking every few feet or so. Masterful pieces of artwork hung between them, landscapes and peaceful mountains scenes.
InuYasha led her towards the sounds of murmured voices, growing louder as they approached. The shoji doors were thrown open, and inside Miroku, Shippo and Sango sat at a low table enjoying the meal the kitsune twins had laid out for them.
Conversation fell as they entered the large room, all eyes turned on them. Miroku wore that familiar smirk that she knew all too well, one that was as playful as it was perverse.
"Well good morning you two. I'm surprised you found your way out of bed at all."
Sango tried to hide her giggle behind her cup of steaming tea, and Shippo cluelessly shoveled food into his mouth, ignoring the adult talk as he usually did.
Her heart swelled in her chest. Even being the butt of Miroku's jest, she didn't care. It felt good to be all together again.
"Jealous?" InuYasha barked back snarkily, taking a seat at the table with a grin.
Miroku rolled his eyes, reaching for a piece of fish.
"You might be right actually. Ow!"
The tell tale thump and the monk's shout of pain, along with Sango's smug smile told her all she needed to know, and she couldn't help the laughter that bubbled out.
She sat beside InuYasha happily, sharing a warm look between them that said a million things at once. He reached down and squeezed her hand beneath the table, a crooked grin on his face that had her heart skipping a beat.
"Where's your other friend?" Inu asked casually, grabbing a piece of cooked meat and tearing into it.
She stiffened silently beside him, just now realizing that Mamoru wasn't among them.
"He wasn't in his room." Miroku shrugged, looking unconcerned.
She felt InuYasha still completely, throwing her a sharp look as he slowly swelled his mouthful with narrowed eyes.
"Oh yeah?"
There was a poignant lapse in conversation, she could feel his aura tensing.
"He likes to keep to himself. I wouldn't worry, he's good at going unnoticed." She said quickly, trying to tame the flames of his temper before they could rise and threaten his mood.
"That's true. The man is as silent as a shadow when he wants to be." Miroku agreed, sensing what Kagome was aiming for. He too, knew InuYasha too well for his own good.
Inu nodded, seeming to accept that explanation as he slowly started to eat again.
The table was filled with a spread of food, and her stomach grumbled. There was steamed fish, a pot of fresh tea, a heaping mound of rice, sliced pork, and a large cauldron of soup that had curls of steam coming off the top, releasing its comforting aroma into the air. It reminded her of her own mother's kitchen, of home.
She tucked into the meal gratefully, saying a silent prayer to the gods for the fortune they'd been bestowed. Miroku and Inuyasha bounced off of each other's energy, talking between mouthfuls about all that had transpired in their time apart. He mostly detailed what had happened since he'd been in Sesshomaru's land, skipping over how he'd ended up here.
But Kagome was too busy taking in the details of the room to notice. This sitting room was just as lavish as everything else she had seen here thus far, but the finer details of it all amazed her. The dark lacquered wood of the table was carried throughout the rest of the space, with the trim and paneling matching. They sat on soft cushions on the floor made of dark green silk, lined with gold trim. Lamps were placed at intervals, though as the sunlight poured in from the huge open-air windows there was no need for their light. Plants in carved pots accented the space, adding a sense of life that was much needed.
The flavor of jasmine washed over her tongue, the tea filling her belly with warmth. She sighed contentedly, feeling full and satisfied for the first time since she'd left home.
Suddenly, she could feel the shift of energy in the air. Her head snapped towards the open doorway, where a Yokai in dark robes breezed through casually. It was the copper Inu she had seen InuYasha speaking with the day before, he'd walked with them to their rooms. He stopped and gave a very stiff half bow, his beaded hair the color of rust falling over squared shoulders. His eyes were narrowed and almond shaped, the color of melted copper. In them she could see his interest shining, thinly veiled by the polite smile wrinkling at the corners as his gaze scanned over them all.
"Haru, join us," InuYasha gestured for him to sit in the empty space at the head of the table.
The other Inu nodded, folding his lanky legs beneath him carefully to join them.
"This is Kagome, the one I was telling you about."
The other Inu's brow quirked up, his lips twitching as if he was fighting off a smile.
They locked eyes, something passing between them that she couldn't quite decipher.
"Ah, good day, my lady. I'm pleased to meet you." His bright eyes were suddenly on her, sharp as a cats, sizing her up. His kimono was a dark charcoal gray and contrasted against his tanned skin and red toned hair. He was so different from any other Inu she'd seen before she'd come here; she couldn't help but examine him right back.
"I'm very glad to meet you as well." She nodded politely, sipping on her delicate cup of jasmine tea.
"And these are our friends Miroku, Sango, and Shippo." InuYasha gave the proper introductions and they all exchanged pleasantries. He watched Harusuke carefully, interested to see how he would interact with humans. But the Inu seemed calm enough. His energy was neutral, and he could sense no form of malice. He may have glanced at his Kagome for just a touch too long, but he could forgive that. She may as well have been a celestial star contained in human form, he couldn't exactly blame him.
"So what exactly are your plans for the day, my lord?" Haru leaned forward, resting his elbows on the tables and picking idly at his claws. His lack of formality seemed to put the whole room at ease. Though, he was definitely thrown a few side eyes at his word choice.
"Well," he sighed heavily, rubbing a hand over his eyes. "I'll need to send for the seamstress, at the very least…"
Before he could even finish his thought he heard the doors to his wind swing open, the pitter-patter of small feet telling him that the Kitsune had returned. They appeared in the doorway, their skirts swishing along the floor as they bowed.
"Lord InuYasha. The honorable Lady Hanako has come to pay you a visit."
He almost spit out his drink.
"Lady Hanako?" He balked, hastily getting to his feet and urging the others to do the same. His dark brows knitted together in confusion as he stood there with Kagome tucked safely behind him.
He'd yet to come across his brothers' new mate, though Harusuke had attested to her alleged beauty and grace. InuYasha had done his best so far to keep his nose out of Sesshomaru's court affairs, but it seemed that was no longer going to be an option with a new mate himself that he had to establish, amongst these people that he now had some level of responsibility over. He could sense Kagome's curiosity pouring over his shoulder as the shoji doors finally slid open.
A collective hush fell around them and even Kagome had to hold back a gasp at the beautiful creature that glided into the room, filling the air with the almost overwhelming smell of fresh cut flowers.
She had long, white hair piled elegantly atop her head. It was wispy like candy floss, curling around her face in a delicate fashion, half of her hair falling in soft curls down her back while the rest was adorned with ornaments piled at her crown that glimmered in the light.
Her kimono was a pale blue, inlaid with visions of budding pink blossoms. The color played off of her skin that was as fresh and pale as a white speckled lily. And when the Yokai fluttered her white eyelashes, Kagome could see that her eyes were colored a striking lavender.
She could not help but to shift uncomfortably in place, adjusting the loose kimono as best she could as it draped off of her much smaller frame. Out of the corner of her eye she could see Sango doing much the same, smoothing over her simple cotton robe with a nervous look written in her expression that mirrored her own.
"Lady Hanako, of the mountain!"
Jaken the imp squawked, appearing out from behind the maiden with his ghastly yellow eyes slitted like a reptiles. He banged his staff against the floor with a sudden bang that had Inuyasha gritting his teeth beside her. She could feel his annoyance as plainly as if it were her own, the back of her neck tingling as his aura brushed up against hers, as if to reassure her silently.
As Jaken's voice rang throughout the small room they all took the hint and bowed deeply. Formality in this manner was not something she was accustomed to by any means, and it did feel odd to bow to this stranger. But she was a foreigner here, and in her gut she knew that this interaction was important. So she followed along, careful not to misstep.
"Please, no, that is unnecessary, Jaken." The Lady blushed delicately, shushing him, seeming almost embarrassed.
She pushed past him, leading in a few other ladies who stood quietly behind her. She seemed uncomfortable as the attention remained on her, but she quickly gathered her composure and gave a lovely smile, showing off pearly white teeth and sharp, undeniably demonic fangs.
"Hello, I am so very pleased to meet you all." Her voice was as soft as a breath of fresh rain. light, airy and pleasant, matching her demeanor. She curtsied gracefully, silk skirts swishing against the wooden floor.
"Lady Hanako, we weren't expecting you today." InuYasha said nervously, fidgeting slightly.
"My betrothed, Sesshomaru-sama, asked me to introduce myself to your mate, my Lord. I thought perhaps we could have tea together."
All at once as soon as the word passed her lips she could feel Sango and Miroku's eyes stabbing at the pair of them like daggers.
The inu beside her stiffened, his shoulders tense as her own cheeks burned. But Hanako's violet eyes were on her, watching her expression curiously, sensing the change in the air.
"Um, I'm not sure if Kagome is dressed correctly for something like that…" InuYasha coughed uncomfortably, sharing a look with his mate that said without words that she was feeling anxious.
They both looked down at the simple kimono that was illy draped over her thin frame, the fabric nearly swallowing her up.
"Oh, nonsense!" Hanako tutted, breezing forward to get a proper look at her outfit. "This is perfect!" She clapped happily as her eyes sparked with an idea. "My mother is a very talented seamstress, you know. We'll have her make you up a few things while we chat, yes?"
Kagome looked around uncomfortably, her eyes landing on Sango. The girl could only offer a helpless shrug, unsure of what to do as the Inu woman waited expectantly for her to answer.
InuYasha seemed at a loss for words for once, shockingly enough.
"I… that sounds…lovely, yes thank you."
It was strange enough to hear that Sesshomaru was betrothed, much less to this lovely creature, but it meant that this girl was to be her family, and the last thing she wanted was to get on her bad side.
"Oh wonderful!" Hanako's wide eyes danced with genuine delight as she looped her arm through hers, pulling her away from InuYasha who could only watch her go with a torn look on his face.
Mamoru had slipped away in the early morning hours, when the humans he'd traveled with were still asleep. He still had the layout of the palace committed to memory. The winding halls felt familiar, and he ran his fingers along the polished wood with a wistful feeling gathering in the pit of his stomach. He garnered a few suspicious looks from the few other Yokai that he crossed paths with, but no one stopped him. His hair was hanging pin straight down his back, he used some of this to his advantage, shielding his eyes from passersby.
Truly, he wasn't supposed to be here. He had a history with this place. He stuck out amongst the well bred Inu's, but it was a feeling he was used to. He kept his head down and went deeper into the belly of the castle, where the floors became old stone laced with magic that he could feel beneath his feet.
Lanterns were placed along the walls at intervals, weak flames that cast shadows along the crumbling stone walls. There were no windows here to fill the space with fresh air, but the scent of incense drifted down the hall like sweet perfume.
He had to stop for a moment and take a deep breath, his head swimming with the heady perfumed scent. It was one that sent chills running across his skin, his heart thumping erratically in his chest. Smokey and exotic to his senses, and hauntingly familiar.
He could feel her.
Could sense her energy just up ahead, secluded and alone in her den.
It didn't seem that much had changed in the one hundred years since he'd left her last.
The feeling sparked something in him that he had not felt for some time. Fire lit within his belly, the embers urging him to push forward. Memories danced through his mind, unwanted and pesky things that filled him with an even deeper sense of urgency.
And finally, he was outside of her door.
The wood was ancient, engraved with symbols and deep lines of age.
For a long time, he just stood there, heartbeat ringing in his demonic ears.
He didn't know if he could actually bring himself to knock… to shatter the illusion of peace they'd cultivated in the past hundred years.
He wanted to.
Gods, did he.
Dreams of her howling at the moon haunted him. Every day since he'd spent fighting to keep those thoughts away, but it was useless. Even as he buried himself in his tasks, she lingered in the back of his mind like a ghost. And in many ways, she was. The image of what she used to be is what he longed for. The truth was, the woman on the other side of the door was a stranger to him. Time could be cruel, it had a habit of eroding things down until they were but a shade of what they used to be.
And he was scared that would be the case with her, too.
Terrified actually.
And he'd barely made it out unscathed last time… though he couldn't say the same for her. She'd suffered more than anyone, because of him.
The thought sent a deep pang of hurt echoing throughout his chest, and he faltered, his hand falling away as it was inches away from knocking on the hard wood.
But just as he turned to go, crestfallen, the door swung wide open, smoke billowing out into the hall.
The silence was deafening.
His throat seemed tight as finally, he dared to let himself look at her.
Her silver hair was drawn back away from her face, spilling over her shoulders in a sleek style that glittered with silver ornaments. A kimono that was the color of a deep wine bounced off of the electric blue of her eyes that seemed even more intense due to the dark kohl that lined them.
A fire burned there. One that threatened to dominate everything in its path, and he was in the direct sight of the blazing flames.
"You should not be here."
Karitei's full lips flattened into a hard line, her words laced with contempt that was written plainly in the expression she wore.
His heart sank.
He'd really expected nothing less, but still, to see her greet him with such open disdain opened a deep wound that had been buried for many years.
He towered over her unintentionally, his dark locks falling over his eyes.
"I know."
It was all he could muster up. His voice was rough and gravely, and he hung his head with a solemn feeling settling over him.
He shouldn't be here. He knew that. She was right. But it was impossible for him to resist. She was too close… it was too tempting.
Suddenly, as if sensing his thoughts, she moved away, retreating back into her den with a beckoning hand that dangled with jewelry.
"Hurry and shut that door." Annoyance flashed in her jaded eyes and he hurried to comply, the sound of it shutting heavily echoing throughout the room.
The silence was incredibly loud.
She flitted around lighting candles with a hemp wick, effectively ignoring him for a long moment.
But he couldn't take his eyes off of her. The candle light flickered off of her pale skin, the delicate curve of her jaw and neck sending a wild shiver down his spine.
It had been a century and still, she managed to make him feel weak.
He swallowed thickly as she finally turned to face him, her silver brow arched expectantly.
"Well?" She set her hands on her hips, "Come to see the mess you left behind, Mamoru?"
Her sharp fangs glinted in the soft light attractively, even as she sneered.
She gestured around to the cozy den, the walls dominated by endless shelves that were filled with various salves, potions, and scrolls. Drying herbs lined whatever wall space was left, and the smell was heavy on the air. The space was rounded, and the center of it was dominated by a pile of furs that served as her bed.
Once, she'd been a true priestess of Tsukyomi. She would lead ceremonies in the great temple, and trained others in the ways of herbalism. But that was many years ago.
But her words felt like the sharp stab of a knife in his chest at that moment. The last thing he needed was a reminder of the things he'd done and the consequences they had. Her sapphire eyes cut straight through him, down to his very soul, and he stared back at her with open regret written in his features.
"I sent you letters…"
He stepped forward, slowly closing the distance between them.
Her face was schooled into an indifferent mask, but he could see the wavering emotions reflected in her brilliant blue eyes.
"I received them."
She said bluntly, suddenly avoiding his gaze. He could see her grit her teeth, the muscles along her delicate neck working as her side profile was showered in the weak light of the room.
Karitei's long fingers picked at her sleeve, the heavy beat of silence feeling suffocating and uncomfortable.
He felt a wave of passion rise in his chest, his aura flickering like bright blue flames.
"I never wanted to leave." His hand reached out tentatively, "You know that. I tried-"
She slapped it away before he could rest his hand on her shoulder, indignation biting there in her eyes.
"You ran."
Kagome was led a short way through the winding, opulent halls that were dappled throughout with sunlight from open windows and skylights.
The impossibly gorgeous InuYokai female, Hanako, led the group of them, with her maidens walking on either side of Kagome, the swishing silk of their skirts doing enough to shield just how underdressed she was from any prying eyes. The dark, armored Inu's flanked them, eyes unwavering, paying her curiosity no mind as she openly watched everything around her.
"Ladies, you can leave us here. Thank you." Hanako's voice was as warm and sweet as honey, she turned to smile as they reached a massive, arched doorway. In an instant, the two women stepped away, bowing politely before turning and walking back the way they had come.
An interesting look sparkled there in the Yokai's lavender eyes, her energy feeling warm and playful as it danced like a swarm of fireflies in the air around her. She pushed open the doors with ease, seeming to glow as sunlight poured from inside, out into the hall.
Hanako beckoned her to follow with a flick of her elegant wrist, drifting forward into a huge, open space that was filled with plants. Huge, exotic and leafy vegetations were artfully arranged around the atrium. Vines climbed up the wooden paneled walls, hanging down over the arch ways in some spots. The floor was made of smooth, cool stone, and Kagome could feel the magic interwoven in the slabs as her bare feet padded against them.
She followed the soon to be empress over to a low table that had already been set with tea and small, fragile looking cakes. Steam curled up, swirling intricately through the stillness.
Lavish silk cushions of dark green were spread over a matching rug, gold inlaid on everything that would stand still. It was pure decadence, the epitome of high society in her eyes and she couldn't help but to straighten her back, suddenly very aware of her posture as she tried to emulate Hanako's gracefulness as she gently lowered herself to sit.
Uncomfortably, she drew the oversize kimono around herself in an attempt to look a bit more presentable.
Hanako watched her as she lifted the tea pot with an effortless elegance, the elaborate, dropping sleeve of her own garment catching Kagome's eye.
"My mother made this for me."
The girl gestured to the silk that adorned her curvaceous frame, noticing the way Kagome admired it.
"She really is very talented. I'm sure she'll bring some things for you with her, as well as take your measurements for whatever you would like to have custom made, of course."
Her voice was lilted, sweet and gentle like fresh rain and Kagome felt a bit more at ease as she offered her the cup of carved jade that was filled with hot tea.
Jasmine burst across her tongue as she took a sip, the fineness of the brew bot lost on her. She smiled and nodded politely, setting the tea cup gently back on the lacquered table.
"I'm looking forward to it."
And she meant it, she was very ready to shed this robe and put on something that made her stick out a little less. And admittedly, she admired Hanako's poise and refinement, in a way. And while she was here she wanted nothing more than to do her best to fit in, so things would be easier on InuYasha.
She could see the difference in him.
His temper had been muted greatly, he was more focused, he seemed to have matured overnight.
It was unsettling, in a way… she loved her hot-headed Hanyou and now… he was gone. But not gone, not really. Just different.
And she would love this version of him, too.
The physical differences didn't matter; she hardly even noticed the purple marks that struck across his cheeks. Their love was still just as true and pure, even after being separated. That's all that she needed to hold on to.
The air shifted with a light breeze that swept in through the massive open windows, her eyes darting away from the Yokai's uncomfortably intense stare, though a warm smile lifted at the corners of her plump lips.
"I really am so happy to have you here, Kagome. I know this all must be very strange for you… I felt much the same upon my arrival as well."
She looked away wistfully, batting her white eyelashes as she seemed to lose herself in that memory for a moment, a solemn smile twisting at her rose-bud lips.
"Of course, I was much younger then."
She took a dainty sip out of her cup before setting it back down.
"But you need not worry. All will be well. Sesshomaru-sama will see to everything, he is very… thorough." She laughed at the last bit, shaking her head.
But Kagome could hardly imagine that such a doe-eyed, airy creature could really be Sesshomaru's mate. Her aura was light and warm, like blooming flowers. While his was a dark and constant swirl around him that spoke of the dark power that ran through his blood like lightning. It seemed ludicrous that two polar opposites could be drawn together… but she had seen odder things in her short eighteen years.
"Hanako-sama, may I ask, how did the two of you meet?"
Kagome curled her brows curiously, hoping that she wasn't stepping over some invisible line by asking such a thing.
"Please, just Hanako. There's no need for honorifics here, we're kin now." She assured her with a light touch of her hand, the smile never leaving her face.
Kagome nodded shyly, silently urging her to continue as her curiosity continued to build with the almost palpable tension that swirled within her own reiki.
Finally, she let out a breathy sound, a mix between a chuckle and a sigh that was soft and pleasant.
"Well, I suppose it's really all thanks to Rin." Fondness shone in her lavender eyes then, crinkling with warmth. "I was a handmaiden of Lady Satsui, but Rin needed someone to care for her, to protect her, while she stayed in this realm… she chose me, truly." She shrugged airily, the sunlight pouring in from the huge windows backlighting her snow-white hair.
"And from there I suppose, Sesshomaru-sama and I… we just drifted together. It is still rather… new."
Kagome smiled hearing her speak so tenderly. Her voice had fallen, her smile almost wistful and even a bit nervous as she met Kagome's gaze. But it was still hard to imagine that this soft girl who seemed so vulnerable at that moment, when he himself couldn't even portray the slightest emotion.
"May I ask the same? I must admit, I'm quite curious as to how you ended up with InuYasha." Hanako giggled, sipping her tea and effectively diverting her attention.
"Oh! Uh-" Kagome blushed violently as she was suddenly onslaught with the memories of that day.
The way he had looked pinned there to the Goshinbinku by the arrows of his past lover, his silver hair a river lifted by the wind. She wasn't supposed to be there. In fact, she belonged in a time far, far away. But somehow, everything had perfectly aligned just so, clearing a path for her to the feudal realm. Looking back, it seemed glaringly obvious that Tsukuyomi had a hand in such things. She wondered if the Inu across from her knew of her patronage, knew that she was godkin.
"That's actually… a really long story." She laughed awkwardly, shaking her head.
Hanako's perfectly white, thin brow arched curiously, her eyes sparkling.
Truly, Kagome didn't know how much she should actually say. It was likely that she knew at least a little, Sesshomaru wouldn't send his newly mated female to have such an interaction with her if she didn't. But still, she found herself holding back. Fighting to remain poised and polite even if she felt ridiculous. She knew well enough to mind her manners.
Though Hanako seemed so young and gentle, and her doe-like essence was clear in her demeanor, she was undoubtedly the second most important person in this realm. Sesshomaru had taken her for his mate, and that made her basically untouchable. Regardless of her own feelings, she needed to make a good impression.
"I guess you could say I was lost… and he helped me find my way home." Kagome smiled faintly, her gaze flickering down to her own reflection wavering in the rippling surface of her teacup, her pale fingers gripping the fine jade cup.
"It took a long time to get where we are now."
That was the pure and honest truth.
It had been such a long journey. Painful, at times.
But remembering the way his hands had roamed her skin the night before… his hot mouth on her sensitive neck… feverish kisses in between gasps and stolen breaths. It made every hardship she'd overcome to get here seem so minuscule.
Their mating bond was fresh, her neck still tingling where his teeth had sunk into her the night before, the bloody mark already gone. But it was a strange tugging on the back of her consciousness, pulling at her spirit. She could feel the space inside of her that was his so clearly. Almost as if it had a heartbeat of its own, the feeling making her throat feel tight as she silently worked to keep herself together under the watchful gaze of Hanako, who seemed to have a knowing look reflected in her impossibly lovely lavender eyes.
As if on cue, the huge wooden doors swung open, breaking the tension.
Two servants held each side by the iron handles, and through them breezed an Inu woman, laden in a blue draping fabric, bells tinkling with each step she took. She glimmered with jewelry; her long white hair was pinned back with a modest pin that caught the light every time she turned her head. Kagome could tell by her aura, and the slightly wise look in her eyes that she was older. They were the same color as Hanako's, a rich violet that was as unnatural as it was beautiful. She'd lined them with a dark kohl that seemed so striking against her pale, perfect skin.
"Ah, mother!"
Hanako clapped happily, standing to greet the woman with a respectful bow. Unsure, Kagome hurried to follow suit, keeping her eyes on the woman who held a tranquil smile on her face.
"This is my new sister in law, Kagome. She requires a new wardrobe for her stay, and I thought no one was better to help than you. Kagome, this is my mother, Bashira."
Kagome smiled politely, bowing her head as she shuffled in front of the woman's piercing gaze.
She seemed to give her a long look, contemplating which pursed lips as she ran her eyes up and down her body.
Kagome was suddenly even more aware of the baggy kimono that was poorly tucked around her, her cheeks burning as she looked away uncomfortably.
"It is an honor to make your acquaintance, my Lady, and even more so an honor to dress such a lovely creature."
The woman smiled warmly, and she could see the resemblance between her and her daughter, who stood beaming beside them. Their shared violet eyes lit up and sparkled with kindness, the perfection of their features somehow still conveying a very human and open warmth.
"Lady Bashira." She bowed deeply in response, copying the greeting she had seen everyone around her do. "I'm so pleased to meet you, and I'm very grateful for any help you can offer." She added politely, silently thanking her own mother for making sure she'd learned proper manners.
Bashira nodded, looking pleased.
"Any opportunity to dress a member of the royal family is a blessing."
It took a painfully long moment for Kagome to realize that she was talking about her and by then Bashira had reached up with one long elegant hand, her jewelry jingling like bells as it draped off of her wrist, snapping her fingers loudly.
As she did so the doors opened again, but this time a troop of servants came through hauling various boxes and setting them down by the table. None of them looked away from their task, but she could see the four of them were of all different breeds of yokai.
One a rabbit, one a doe, a kitsune, and some type of forest nymph. When they'd finished under a minute later they silently showed themselves out, shutting the doors behind them.
"Now!" Hanakos mother clapped with excitement, going over to open one of the large leather trunks. "I will need to measure you of course." She seemed to rifle through it, tossing around colorful scraps of fabric as she did so.
Kagome stood awkwardly while she brought a long length of ribbon around her waist, checking how much space overlapped.
"Such a tiny waist!" She remarked, now checking for her height.
"That should do for now. Your shape is very agreeable, my lady. We should have no problem making you whatever you like."
Kagome looked at Hanako nervously, lost. Sensing her uncertainty, the Yokai stepped forward, addressing her mother.
"I should think she will need plenty of yukata, at least one junihitoe…"
Kagome let Hanako take the lead, knowing that she was altogether clueless when it came to such things. The three of them spent the next hour picking fabrics and designs, and she found herself actually enjoying the time. The luxurious silks were so beautiful, almost too perfect to be touched by her. But they felt like butterfly wings beneath her fingertips, delicate and fleeting. When Hanako was satisfied with her choices, they began to dress her in a proper outfit, discarding the oversize baggy fabric that she'd been swathed in.
She didn't bother feeling shy. The nakedness was only a brief moment before they slipped a thin robe over her shoulders, tying it around the middle with light, thin cord.
She'd chosen a kimono that was colored a deep, emerald green, patterned with leaves and forest scenes. The blue obi pulled out the colors that were woven into the fabric, playing off her creamy white skin to paint a beautiful picture.
There was no mirror to look at herself, but she could tell by the approving look written all over Hanako's face that she looked much better. The layered fabric felt heavier than what she was used to wearing, but she didn't mind. It was surprisingly breezy and she felt beautiful. The change had been instant, as soon as the silk caressed her skin she felt like a proper lady.
"My lady, if I may…?"
Kagome nodded sagely. Bashira had a pleased smile curving at her lips, stepping behind her to twist at Kagome's impossibly long river of hair that fell down her back. She gathered half of it into a single updo, pulling pins from god only knew where. When she was finished, she stepped away, admiring her handiwork.
"There. If the court doesn't accept you now, they're blind."
"Oh Kagome!" Hanako gasped at the same time, her mouth dropping open. "That color on you is a vision."
Kagome tried not to blush too much with their wave of compliments, feeling a rush of happiness overcome her. She was not the type of girl to fawn over clothes and makeup and such, but just as any eighteen year old girl would do, she felt giddy and light, excited to show her new clothes to InuYasha, who surely was getting antsy without her by now.
"I can't thank you enough, Lady Bashira." Kagome beamed, bowing deeply, her skirts swishing along the floor.
"Please." She waved dismissively. The woman smiled, her pearly fangs sparkling in the sunlight that poured in from the windows. "You are family now."
As time wore on InuYasha grew restless, tucked away in his rooms with Miroku, Sango, Harusuke and shippo. For a while he showed them around, poking into the various rooms that had slowly been cleaned out since he'd first arrived. He also had a small private garden, with high fences made of dark stained wooden planks and a few miscellaneous shrubs and clusters of flowers. It hadn't been well maintained, and he'd gotten little use out of it so far but he could see the potential. Shippo enjoyed exploring it while the rest of them watched from the covered porch, he sniffed and jumped around wildly, excited by all the new sights and scents.
Though he was amused, he was growing antsier by the second. Kagome had been gone for a couple of hours maybe, having been whisked away by the mysterious Lady Hanako.
Naturally, he had trust issues with that sort of thing. It seemed like every time he let her out of his sight something detrimental happened. And with the fresh hormones of their mating rushing through him… he loathed her absence. Even if she was just a brisk walk down the hall away, that was too far for his liking. But knowing his brother, and knowing how he felt similarly about his own mate, he doubted there was any danger here. And it would benefit Kagome in the long run to try and participate in some of the customs, especially now that he was just barely two days away from taking his place among the court. This needed to go well. But he tried to remind himself that he had to have faith in her, she was stronger than most people gave her credit for. She could hold her own.
So he gritted his teeth and withstood the gnawing feeling that was eating away at his core.
He had half expected Sesshomaru to drop by unannounced as well, given his new mate had been tasked with making nice with Kagome. But not unsurprisingly, he was absent. Probably off dealing with the multitude of responsibilities that were left to tend to before the ceremonies that were to take place later in the week. He had stressed the crucial nature of the position he was in the day before, in the hall as InuYasha had pleaded his case to let Kagome and his friends stay. But perhaps it had not truly sunk in until that very moment, that everything they stood upon hung in a terribly precarious balance that could be shifted at any given moment. The court had been shockingly agreeable thus far… but that could change easily, as with the wind.
He was pulled from his tumultuous thoughts by Miroku placing a light hand on his shoulder, bringing him back to earth.
His indigo eyes shone with a knowing look, his lips curved up in a reassuring smile. Though he had an ease to his demeanor, the Inu could see clearly through to the seriousness that lay over him like a dark cloak. There was so much that had been left unsaid between them, so much he had yet to explain. He felt it weighing down on him like a heavy stone, pulling at his guts.
"You seem a bit reserved, even for you I must say." Miroku chuckled amiably, tucking his hands into the wide sleeves of the plain cotton robe he wore.
InuYasha sighed heavily, rubbing his forehead. He chewed on his words for a long moment, thinking.
Haru hovered by the door, pretending he couldn't hear.
"So much has happened…" He breathed finally, turning to look his friend in the eyes with a half-hearted grin. "I don't know what to say."
The hoshi nodded solemnly, his dark hair lifted gently by the breeze.
"I can understand, InuYasha." His blue eyes the color of a dark and choppy sea.
"It's been hard for everyone." His eyes drifted over to Sango, who leaned down to take a deep sniff of the flowers that sprung up from the dry earth. Even InuYasha could sense the change in them all. There was a quiet somber air that had snuck in, during his absence. It held fast to the people he had called his companions, hung over their heads like a bleak cloud, carrying with it a chill that sunk deep into his bones.
"We didn't know if you were even alive… Sango was worrying herself to illness over Kagome, wondering if she was going to have to tell her you perished. We looked… but Kirara couldn't pick up your scent anymore. There was no trace of you… you were just gone."
The hoshi wouldn't meet his eyes, looking out over the bare garden as his expression became steely. His tone was casual, but the way his jaw clenched was anything but.
InuYasha looked down at his feet, his head hanging there for a moment as guilt twinged in his chest.
But he never meant for any of this to happen. All he'd wanted was retribution for what Bankotsu had done… for the way he'd dared to lay even a finger on his mate.
A fire rose within him and suddenly he found himself snapping his head up, needing his friend to know. To understand.
"I was going to send word to you all, I swear it. But there was no time. I went after the Seven, and it ended… badly."
He swallowed thickly, his throat going tight at the memories he was assaulted with in that moment. The sheer agony he writhed in for days. it was the only thing after the near fatal encounter with the undead band that he could grasp with certainty. Ginkotsu's poison had been pumped straight to his heart by the metal arrows that had pierced his chest that day, and if Sesshomaru hadn't stepped in and brought him here he would be dead.
His hands tightened to fists at his sides, claws pricking his palms.
Miroku's eyes flashed towards his, brows drawn sharply in concern.
"Sesshomaru found me… and brought me here. There's more, but that's the gist of it, anyway." The Inu sighed heavily, not even knowing how to broach the whole situation regarding his transformation.
"That's… rather oddly out of character for Sesshomaru, I would think." The hoshi stated matter of factly, rubbing his chin and looking contemplative. "But I suppose that was the best outcome for the situation. Though I cannot say it does not raise concern for me. I think it would be wise to remain cautious."
InuYasha nodded in agreement, though in his eyes it was much less black and white at this point. But he could understand Miroku's point of view and he needed to respect it. As the hoshi's gaze drifted over to Sango again he understood him all the more. He had his own person to protect.
There was a long beat of silence as the Inu gathered his thoughts.
"You've always been a good friend to me ever since I met you, Miroku… probably the first real one I've ever had. Don't worry, okay? You can trust me."
His amber eyes shone with his conviction, and he hoped that the monk could understand.
Miroku seemed to search his face, indigo eyes blazing as his mouth settled into a thin line.
"I know. I have to admit I'm very relieved to see you… But I need to know the next move, we can't stay here, Inu. There are shards still missing… Naraku is gaining strength, and the Band of Seven are still out there, too."
It was another hard truth that he just didn't want to deal with right now.
And that last bit stung.
But it was their reality. And he'd pledged to eradicate Naraku, and along with that, the mercenaries who dared try and steal his Kagome away. He'd staked it on his honor, and that was something he was unwilling to go back on.
Lip caught between his teeth, he knew Miroku was right.
"We'll deal with all that soon enough. That was always the plan… everything just went left there for a moment. I just need more time here, try not to worry yourself too much." InuYasha nodded sagely, trying to douse the conversation.
He felt a bit calmer with some of that load off of his chest, though. It was a relief to see familiar faces, and the halls of his ancestral wing felt warm, and filled with life. Probably for the first time in hundreds of years. Even these hard conversations felt cathartic, because he knew that Miroku would not spurn him. If there was anyone who he knew he could trust, it was the clever-mouthed monk. There was no sugar coating, or telling him only what he wanted to hear. It was realistic and very necessary, and he realized then maybe that was why he grew to like Harusuke so quickly as well. The two reminded him a bit of each other, though in the flesh they couldn't be more different.
Miroku sighed, nodding his head with an almost imperceptible terse air about him, his lips pursed into a curt line.
"Alright. I can see this is very important to you, InuYasha. All I can promise is that we will try."
A small smile curved at his mouth, relief washing over him and calming his nerves just slightly. That was enough for him. With Miroku's support he felt a tad bit more secure. He had people on his side, people to support him if this whole thing went down in flames. And that was all he could've asked for at that moment.
Sango walked up the short wooden stairs, a knowing look on her face as she seemed to immediately read their expressions. Her thin brows were arched sharply, drawn over her eyes in such a way that her look alone was cutting. The demon slayer had the ability to see through someone in an instant, so much so that she could often come off as cold or unforgiving. She and InuYasha had never gotten along that well, but she had garnered his respect.
"I don't mean to interrupt," she began breezily, brushing a stray hair away from where it had fallen into her eyes. Her brown-black hair hung pin straight down her back, lifting with the gentle breeze as it blew through the private garden.
"You're quite all right, Lady Sango. No interruptions here." The hoshi gave her a crooked smile, his gaze instantly softening when he looked at her.
A soft blush rose in her cheeks as her eyes shifted away.
InuYasha couldn't help the knowing smirk that twisted at his lips as he watched the interaction, stifling a chuckle. For as long as it had taken him and Kagome to finally commit to each other, it seemed that his two friends had only just begun to truly soften in that regard. There was an unspoken tension between them that he knew all too well, he'd sensed it as soon as he really had a moment to sit back and observe them this morning over breakfast. The hoshi was always looking at her, his gaze lingering, but not with his usual when he was by chance not looking her way, she would immediately take the opportunity to steal a glance back. He could practically see the gears turning in Miroku's head as his eyes glazed over her pallid throat.
"I think I would like to lie down for a bit, if you would excuse me."
Sango gave a curt bow before brushing past them, through the open door with Kirara at her heels before either of them could offer up a word.
Miroku sighed, shaking the dark hair out of his eyes exasperatedly.
"Women can be so fickle."
InuYasha had almost forgotten Harusuke behind him until he came up to join the two of them, making a noise of agreement in the back of his throat.
"You are very right about that, holy man." The Yokai grinned, his distinctly canine teeth all sharp and unsettling to the human eye. "Very fickle indeed. That's why I've chosen to… abstain from such things."
It was the most personal thing InuYasha had ever heard the Yokai say. He would rarely talk about himself, he now realized. He would immediately shift the subject away if asked about his life, and had only divulged a few scarce things here and there. So to hear him offering up a tidbit about himself so freely, he could not help but to press for more.
"Hold on a second, so you're saying you have no interest in women?"
He cocked a thick brow in disbelief, sharing a look with Miroku who was equally confused.
Haru rolled his eyes.
"I like them, yes… but they annoy me. More trouble than they're worth usually, in my opinion." The copper Inu shrugged carelessly. Unbothered, he was quick to brush off Inuyasha and Miroku's dubious looks of disbelief.
A long moment passed before the Hoshi seemed to make a connection that the Inu hadn't.
"Ohhhh I see," He said jovially, "you must be a virgin!"
Harusuke became stony, his expression flat as he rolled his eyes while the two other men all but balked in disbelief.
"Shut up." He bit out, a touch of real annoyance shining through his indifferent mask.
InuYasha and Miroku couldn't stifle the laughter that bubbled up. It seemed ludicrous to them that such a thing could be true, considering his age and the way males of their species were wired. A typical inu would reach maturity around their two hundredth year, and the urge to mate would escalate from there. While not all Inu's would take a mate, most would, and at the very least they would fall prey to their lust.
It was almost impressive that he'd managed to keep to himself, this long, in a way. If not a little sad.
"Keh, I was almost certain you'd bedded that little doe already, Haru."
InuYasha jested lightly with a chuckle, prodding the copper inu with his elbow in a friendly manner.
"Tsuya?"
His dark brows arched over his eyes quizzically, and he looked like he'd honestly never even considered the idea before that moment.
"Don't make me laugh."
Sensing that Harusuke had had enough of their teasing, he and Miroku shared a wordless look, both of them silently agreeing to drop that line of conversation.
"I think we should go fetch Kagome, I don't like her being away for this long." InuYasha changed the subject swiftly, and it was the truth. Without her by his side it felt like his skin itched, his spirit threatening to burst from inside him in search of her.
"It's barely been an hour."
Miroku rolled his eyes, a knowing smile turning up at the corners of his lips.
"Exactly, too long." The inu muttered back, brushing past both of them to enter back into the palace.
Truly, even an hour away from each other for such a newly mated pair was pushing it. He needed her like air, needed to be close enough to feel the comforting thump of her heart beat. A few moments apart felt like eons.
Instantly as he crossed the threshold he could feel her approaching, sense her spirit through the walls as if they were invisible for a moment. Her reiki was swirling, pulsing, and he could tell she had sensed him as well. His steps grew more confident and sure, padding against the cool wood as he all but flew down the hall to throw open the elegantly carved wooden doors that closed off his wing from the rest of the palace.
Hanako and her guards were on either side of her, but his eyes were glued only to Kagome and he was frozen in place for a long drawn out moment. Blood rushed to his cheeks and his eyes ran up and down her body in disbelief, drinking in every inch of her.
She seemed to glow, a happy blush in her own cheeks as her eyes sparkled with warmth. Swathed in a deep green, her figure was exaggerated pleasantly by the layered robes that were draped and cinched just so. Her hair was a sheer river of dark waves, half drawn up at the crown of her head and pinned with delicate, subtle ornaments. It fell down to the small of her back, thick and luscious.
The breath had been stolen from his lungs as he laid his eyes on her. She looked like a painting, almost unreal in her perfection.
"I can see I have done well."
Hanako addressed him teasingly, a soft smile on her full lips as she bowed to her soon to be brother in law.
He matched her bow, shaking himself out of his stupor to follow the customs as they were well within the public eye, members of the court drifting by just out of sight, ever watchful.
Kagome giggled, and he stuttered trying to form actual words when she was looking at him and blushing so prettily like that.
"I didn't think it was possible to make her even more beautiful." He swept forward to grab his mate's hand, instantly feeling the connection, molten gold striking against mahogany brown as they locked eyes lovingly.
It took an immense amount of self restraint not to grab her and kiss her full on her rosebud lips, but he managed to control himself.
"You did perfect. Thank you." He nodded to the snowy Inu, who seemed pleased at his response.
"Of course. I'm very much looking forward to spending more time with you both." She turned to leave, the powder blue fabric of her kimono swishing softly against the polished floors. "My mother will have the rest of the garments delivered as soon as possible." She reached out, giving Kagome's hand a small squeeze as she passed. "Thank you for meeting with me, sister."
Hanako bowed, and InuYasha felt a small sense of pride when Kagome followed suit, bowing deeply.
She murmured a soft goodbye, sunlight from the skylights dappling along her pure white hair as she went back the way she had come, flanked by the extreme contrast of the shadowed Inu's.
Alone for a brief moment, he gave in and swept her up into a passionate kiss, capturing her mouth ravenously.
Kagome clung to him with abandon, her fingers tightening in the fabric over his chest, unconsciously seeking the warmth of his skin. His tongue animalistically lapped at hers, taking a deep taste.
He had to force himself to break away, already breathing heavily, feeling her chest heaving against his as stars seemed to swirl in her eyes. The scent of cherry blossoms flooded his nose as he fought to take a deep, calming breath, a smirk twisting at his mouth.
"It's hard to stop myself." he whispered, nipping at her lips sweetly before stepping away, keeping her small hand firmly in his grasp.
She laughed breathlessly, the sound as pure as tinkling bells lighting up the air and he felt his heart swell with it. He led her back into the security of his chambers, closing the heavy door securely behind them with a resounding click.
He took her arm, like he would any proper lady, and they breezed towards the open back doors down the hall where Miroku and Harusuke had lingered behind. A hush fell upon them as the pair made their entrance.
"May I present Lady Kagome!"
InuYasha proudly announced her, his eyes shining with fondness as she curtsied with a light giggle, a blush coloring her cheeks.
Harusuke and Miroku both clapped jovially, her giddiness practically tangible.
"Wow I must say my Lady, you clean up rather well." The Hoshi complimented, scanning her outfit with approval clear in his expression .
"You'll fit right in, that's for sure." The copper inu threw in, though he seemed unimpressed.
But Kagome was glowing with happiness, her smile radiant as it curved at her full lips. She twirled around in the kimono, the layers of green and pink silk rustling pleasantly. He could tell she was feeling more confident now that she was fitted in some proper clothing, and he couldn't get over how perfect she looked. Like a doll, really, with her hair pinned elegantly to the crown of her head, half of it spilling down over her shoulders in thick waves. There was a sparkle there in her dark eyes, and he felt some measure of relief.
It had gone exceptionally smoothly with Lady Hanako, and that was just another thing he could check off of his list.
"I was thinking," InuYasha clapped his hands together, filled with a sudden surge of energy.
"Feh. That's never good." Harusuke chimed in teasingly.
The silver Inu rolled his eyes with an annoyed huff, continuing.
"I was thinking you might like to come take a look around with me, Kagome. I can show you the rest of the palace, maybe the markets, if you feel up to it."
She smiled even more brilliantly, one of her small hands reaching out to capture his tanned, roughened one.
"I would love that."
She threaded their fingers together, and a warm feeling washed over him. It was tender, and deep, almost as endless and bottomless as the sea. He could feel their connection almost as if it were a palpable thread, tugging at his chest. He could lose himself in it. In her. Her heart beat there beneath her ribs and he could feel it. As if it were his own.
And looking at her, blinking up at him so prettily, he figured that it may as well be. He was an empty shell without her, having her close made life worth living.
Miroku cleared his throat, abruptly shattering his reverie.
"I'll stay behind with Shippo, and Sango, if that's okay… I'd like to have a word with Mamoru when he gets back, anyway."
Kagome's brow immediately furrowed with concern, pulling herself closer into InuYasha without thinking.
"He's still not back?" She asked.
The monk shrugged, shaking his head.
"I haven't seen him. But I'm sure he's fine. Like you said before, he can take care of himself."
InuYasha watched the cloud of emotions change as they passed over her face very carefully.
Admittedly, when it came to the Tatsu, he was weary, to say the least. He didn't trust him whatsoever. And the thought of him having been alone with his mate for so long… he would have to talk to Kagome about it to help him soothe his anxieties. Because seeing the worry flash over her face sent a spike of hot jealousy straight through his heart. It twisted and turned sickly down to his stomach, settling there with a heaviness that did not sit well.
Hesitantly, Kagome nodded, the demure hair ornaments tinkling as he did so, seeming to agree though her brow was creased with worry.
Despite his own swirling emotions, when her soft brown eyes looked to him for comfort, he automatically reached out to pull her closer, feeling her instantly begin to calm.
"As long as he's smart and doesn't provoke Sesshomaru… he'll be okay." The Inu said finally, sighing. He pressed a chaste kiss to her forehead and she seemed to accept the reassurance, her fingers tightening around his.
"I'll leave Haru with you, Miroku. He'll make sure you guys are safe, you can trust him."
InuYasha's eyes flashed seriously to the copper Inu, and they seemed to pass something between them wordlessly. Harusuke bowed deeply, acknowledging the responsibility those words held with a serious air falling over them all.