All her life, Kagome had heard whispers of the demon that lurked in the dark forest, a being of ancient malice who ensnared the unwary that trespassed into his domain. The villagers spoke in hushed tones, spinning tales of how the demon devoured children and bathed in the blood of young men to preserve his youth.
Kagome dismissed these stories as mere superstitions. She did not believe in demons. After all, she had lived on the outskirts of the village, closest to the dark woods, since she was a young girl, and had never encountered any such creature.
Humming a cheerful melody, she took her time pinning the white sheets to the clothesline, her skepticism unwavering.
Her disbelief was rooted in experience; in all her years residing by the edge of the foreboding forest, she had never heard a demon's call, much less seen one.
"Kagome! Where are you?"
"Back here, Sango!"
Her best friend, Sango, was the only one who dared to visit her regularly. The rest of the villagers shunned Kagome's cottage, afraid of its proximity to the dark woods. They spoke of a haunting melody that lured the unsuspecting into the forest's depths, compelling them to wander against their will.
Kagome scoffed at such notions.
"People are so gullible," she murmured to herself.
"You look happy today," Sango remarked, a warm smile on her face as she carried a large basket.
"It's a wonderful day," Kagome replied with her own smile, her heart light. "Would you like to come in for tea?"
Sango shook her head gently. "I must return home to greet Kohaku. He's coming back this afternoon from school."
"How long will he be staying?"
"Only a week before he must return," Sango sighed, a touch of melancholy in her eyes. "He's growing up so quickly, and it saddens me."
Kagome nodded understandingly. "I'm glad he's thriving at school."
A shadow of sorrow and guilt crossed Sango's features. "I'm sorry, Kagome. I didn't mean to—"
Kagome shook her head, pinning the last sheet up on the line. "It was a long time ago," she said, taking Sango's hands in hers. "I'm not angry."
"I know," Sango murmured, and quickly changed the subject. Setting down the large basket on the stump where Kagome sometimes sat, she said, "I brought you enough food for two weeks. I won't be able to visit while Kohaku is home, and next week I have to deliver weapons to a nearby village for Father."
Sango, the daughter of the village blacksmith, often traveled to deliver her father's wares. She always made a point to visit Kagome's cottage, bringing her food from the market. Despite the villagers' mixed feelings—pity and respect for Kagome as a healer—Kagome seldom ventured into the village unless summoned.
"Thank you, Sango," Kagome said, accepting the basket. "How much was it?"
"Twenty gold pieces," Sango replied with a smile.
Kagome reached into her apron pocket, drawing out twenty-five gold pieces, and handed them to Sango. "This is too much, Kagome," Sango protested.
"Think of it as a delivery fee," Kagome insisted.
Sango knew better than to argue. She accepted the payment and pocketed the gold. Kagome always gave her extra, knowing Sango's father struggled to make ends meet. Living alone with minimal expenses, Kagome could afford the generosity.
"Thank you, Kagome," Sango said, embracing her childhood friend. "We'll have tea together in two weeks."
"I'll be waiting," Kagome smiled, waving as Sango turned to leave, her brown hair catching in the wind, the bright pink ribbon fluttering.
Lifting the large and heavy basket, she moved into the cottage. Continuing to hum, she entered the quaint cottage that only had three rooms, the kitchen and living room, her bedroom and the bathroom.
Unpacking all the food into the pantry, she set the basket down and grabbed another. Moving to grab her red cloak off the rack, she donned it and left out the back door.
Another reason why Kagome didn't believe in demons was because she frequently visited the dark woods. To collect herbs to make medicine. Yet, it wasn't the only reason. It was because she felt drawn to the woods, something that spoke to her, a deep connection that she didn't know what to make of.
For years, she had walked into the woods and never before had she seen a demon. However, she would admit that she did sometimes feel as though she was being watched, but she chalked it up to mere paranoia.
Demons, she snorted.
Humans could be so silly to believe in such myths.
Golden eyes pierced through the canopy, their owner lounging against the tree trunk, watching the young woman sing and dance barefoot in the field of red rose blossoms and purple violet bells.
For years, she had ventured into his domain, collecting wild herbs, enjoying her midday meal, and then losing herself in song and dance before leaving. At first, he had dismissed her as a foolish human, oblivious to the fact that these woods were his. But as she returned, week after week, establishing her little routine, he found himself drawn to her unwavering presence.
Never before had a human dared to tread so fearlessly into his territory, let alone with such regularity.
His eyes glowed as he observed her, captivated by the sway of her form to the tune she hummed.
She was a vision, with waist-length, wavy, raven hair that cascaded down her back, deep blue eyes that held mysteries untold, and lips that were full and pink. Her tall, slender figure moved with grace, her fair skin flawless, her face angular and refined.
Today, she wore a black bodice over a gray, long-sleeved, calf-length frock with a white petticoat. She had abandoned her black flat shoes and the red cloak she often wore, leaving them behind as she immersed herself in the dance.
The demon watched from his perch, his heart—cold and untouched for eons—stirring with an unfamiliar warmth. Her beauty was a cruel temptation, her innocence a stark contrast to the dark secrets of the woods. He had lived through countless lifetimes, seen civilizations rise and fall, but never had he encountered a creature like her.
As she twirled among the blossoms, the forest seemed to hold its breath, the air thick with an unspoken tension. The demon's golden eyes narrowed, his thoughts dark and conflicted. She was trespassing, yes, but there was a strange allure in her defiance, a romance in the way she embraced the danger of the woods.
His fingers itched to reach out, to touch the smooth curve of her cheek, to claim her as his own. But he remained still, his presence cloaked in the shadows of the trees. For now, he would watch, a silent guardian, torn between the urge to protect and the desire to possess.
In the gathering dusk, as the last rays of sunlight filtered through the treetops, the young woman paused in her dance, glancing around as if sensing she was not alone. Her gaze lingered on the shadows where he hid, a slight frown creasing her brow.
The demon's breath caught, and for a fleeting moment, their eyes met across the distance. A shiver ran down his spine, and he knew that this was no ordinary encounter.
"I know you are there," Kagome murmured softly. "I can feel you. Why do you hide in the shadows where I cannot see you?"
She continued to stare high into the treetop, sensing the dark intensity that radiated from within.
Before she could even blink, her breath caught in her throat as a tall, imposing figure materialized before her. He was a being of otherworldly beauty, exuding an aura of both danger and allure. His skin was fair and flawless, his ears pointed, and his slanted, glowing gold eyes with slit pupils watched her with an unsettling intensity. Knee-length silver hair, intricately braided, rested over his shoulder, with short bangs framing a violet crescent moon on his forehead. Two magenta stripes adorned each cheek and each eyelid, accentuating his ethereal visage.
He wore baggy purple pants that hung low on his hips, partially obscuring the large magenta stripes that disappeared into the fabric. A loose white kimono, adorned with delicate purple flowers, draped over his left side, leaving the other exposed, baring his muscular build.
Kagome's heart pounded as she took in the sight of him, her senses overwhelmed by his presence. He was both mesmerizing and terrifying, a creature born of nightmares and dreams. The forest seemed to hold its breath, the world narrowing to just the two of them.
"You dare to trespass into my domain," he said, his voice a low, melodic rumble that sent shivers down her spine. "Yet you do so with such fearlessness."
Kagome met his gaze, her own eyes defiant. "I come here because I feel a connection to this place. To you, perhaps. I am not afraid."
A flicker of surprise crossed his features, quickly replaced by a bemused smile. "Brave words for a mortal. Few dare to speak to me as you do."
She stepped closer, her hand reaching out as if to touch him, to confirm he was real. "Who are you?"
"I am Sesshomaru," he replied, his name carrying an ancient weight. "These woods are mine, and I have watched you for years, wondering what drives you to return."
Kagome's hand hovered just inches from his skin, feeling the warmth radiating from him. "I return because... I feel drawn to this place. There's… something that calls to me."
Sesshomaru's eyes softened, a rare emotion flickering within them. "Perhaps it is fate," he mused, his voice a whisper. "Or perhaps something darker."
He reached out, his fingers brushing against her cheek, and Kagome shivered at the touch. "You intrigue me, human," he said. "But beware, for these woods are filled with dangers, and I am not always merciful."
Kagome leaned into his touch, her eyes never leaving his. "I am not afraid of you, Sesshomaru. I see the darkness within you, but I also see something more. Something beautiful."
For a moment, the world stood still, the connection between them electric and undeniable. Sesshomaru's hand lingered on her cheek before he stepped back, his expression inscrutable.
"Return to your village," he commanded softly. "But know this, Kagome. You are no longer just a trespasser. You are a part of this forest now, a part of me."
With that, he vanished into the shadows, leaving Kagome standing alone among the red rose blossoms and purple violet moons. Her heart raced, her mind reeling from the encounter. She knew, deep in her soul, that her life had irrevocably changed, bound by an invisible thread to the enigmatic demon lord who watched her from the darkness.
As she made her way back to her cottage, the forest seemed to whisper his name, a haunting melody that promised danger and romance, light and shadow. And Kagome knew she would return, drawn by the magnetic pull of the dark and beautiful being who had ensnared her senses.
It wasn't until she had gone to bed did she realize that he had spoken her name, she had never told him her name.
Days slipped by, leaving Kagome weary. She had not visited the woods since her encounter with Sesshomaru. Two young women in the neighboring village had given birth, and Kagome had traveled to deliver their healthy babies. Now, she needed to restock on white willow bark and rosemary, essential supplies she had run out of.
Despite her fatigue, her mind remained fixated on Sesshomaru, the demon who claimed the woods as his own. An uneasy apprehension gnawed at her, but her need for supplies outweighed her trepidation.
Donning her red cloak and picking up her basket, Kagome left the backdoor of her cottage. She walked past her garden on one side and her clothesline on the other, heading towards the dark, ominous woods. As she hummed a small tune, she followed the familiar worn path she had created over the years. The whispers of the wind sent a shiver down her spine.
"You lack sleep," his deep, velvety voice brushed against her skin. "You are unusually pale."
"I was called upon to deliver babies in the neighboring village," she answered, her voice steady. "I only arrived home this morning."
"There are women healers now?"
"Yes," Kagome replied, turning to see him leaning against a tree, his arms crossed over his chest. "My parents were healers as well."
"Are they not anymore?"
A familiar sadness crept up on her, and she averted her eyes from him. "They died when I was only nine."
Silence enveloped them before he spoke again. "No siblings?"
"A little brother, who also died along with my parents." She knew what he would ask next. As she moved off the path, he followed, she crouched down and began to harvest the rosemary, she spoke in a soft, mournful tone. "We were returning from visiting my grandfather in a village a few days' journey away. We had stopped in a small town because my brother had caught a fever. My father sent me to the apothecary to retrieve medicine for him. When I returned, they had been slaughtered. They say that they were killed by a murderer who had been hiding out in the inn that we were staying at."
Sesshomaru's gaze softened, the intensity of his golden eyes tempered with a hint of sorrow. "You carry a heavy burden, Kagome."
She nodded, her fingers deftly plucking the rosemary. "It's a burden I've learned to bear."
He moved closer, the space between them shrinking until he was a mere breath away. "Why do you return to these woods, knowing the dangers they hold?"
Kagome looked up, meeting his gaze with unwavering resolve. "Because these woods are a part of me now. And because of you."
A flicker of surprise crossed his features, quickly replaced by a bemused smile. "You are a peculiar human, Kagome."
She reached out, her hand trembling as it brushed against his. "And you, Sesshomaru, are not as heartless as you appear."
He caught her hand, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through her. "You do not know the darkness that dwells within me."
"I see the darkness," she whispered, her voice filled with determination. "But I also see the light."
In that moment, the forest seemed to hold its breath, the air thick with an unspoken tension. Sesshomaru's grip tightened, his eyes searching hers for something even he could not name.
"Be careful, Kagome," he murmured, his voice a mix of warning and tenderness. "These woods are treacherous, and so am I."
"I am not afraid," she replied, her heart racing. "Not of the woods. Not of you."
His eyes darkened with an emotion she could not decipher. "Then perhaps you are the bravest of all."
"My name," she began, her voice shaky. "How is it that you know it? I never spoke it in your presence."
"I have watched you for years," he replied. "I followed you and heard the woman who visits you often speak your name."
"You've followed me?"
He nodded, his expression unchanging.
"Are you truly a demon then?" she asked, her curiosity tinged with fear.
A smirk spread across his lips, revealing perfect white teeth and sharp fangs. "Indeed."
"Do you eat children and bathe in the blood of young men to keep your youth, then?"
He scoffed, stepping away from her. "Those are rumors my mother started to keep humans from coming here. She detests humans."
"Does she live here now?"
Sesshomaru chuckled darkly, the sound sending a shiver down her spine. "If she did, you would be her slave."
"Your parents still live?"
"Yes," he answered, his tone betraying a hint of annoyance. "But they do not dwell here. They rule their own territories."
"Why do you live here, then?"
He turned to face her fully, his golden eyes piercing through the dim light of the forest. "I chose this place for its solitude. For its peace, away from the politics and power struggles of my kind."
Kagome's heart ached with a mixture of sympathy and fear. "You seek peace, yet you find yourself drawn to me. Why?"
Sesshomaru's gaze softened, a rare vulnerability breaking through his stoic facade. "You do not fear me as others do."
She stepped closer, her hand trembling as it reached out to him. He caught her hand, his touch both gentle and firm. "You have yet to harm me."
As they stood amidst the red rose blossoms and purple violet moons, the forest seemed to close in around them, creating a world where only they existed. Sesshomaru's grip tightened, his eyes searching hers for something he could not name.
"Be careful, Kagome," he murmured, his voice a blend of warning and tenderness. "These woods are treacherous, and so am I."
"I am not afraid," she whispered, her heart racing. "Not of the woods. Not of you."
His eyes darkened further, filled with an intensity that made her breath catch. "That makes you naive and foolish."
With that, he leaned down, capturing her lips in a kiss that was both fierce and tender. The forest around them seemed to hold its breath, the air thick with unspoken promises and the electric pull of their connection.
His kiss was a blend of darkness and passion, a silent vow of the peril and love that lay ahead. Kagome felt her world shift, every fiber of her being drawn to him. The forest seemed to pulse with their shared heartbeat, the flowers around them whispering secrets of ancient romances and timeless bonds.
Then, as quickly as he had appeared, Sesshomaru disappeared into the shadows, leaving her warm and breathless, her lips tingling from the intensity of their kiss.
Kagome stood alone amidst the red rose blossoms and purple violet moons, the memory of his touch lingering like a phantom embrace. Her fingers ghosting over her lips.
She often thought of the kiss he had given her that day in the woods. No matter how busy she was, no matter the tasks at hand, the memory lingered at the back of her mind, haunting her like a shadow. How could it not? It had been her first kiss.
Every time she closed her eyes, she could feel the warmth of his lips, the intensity of his touch. It was a kiss that had ignited something deep within her, a fire that refused to be extinguished. The memory was both a comfort and a torment, a reminder of a world that was as beautiful as it was dangerous.
Kagome continued with her daily routines, tending to her garden, gathering herbs, and caring for the villagers who sought her healing skills. Yet, every so often, her thoughts would drift back to Sesshomaru. The way his golden eyes had darkened with emotion, the way his touch had sent shivers down her spine—it was all imprinted on her soul.
One evening, as she sat by the fire, her mind wandered back to that fateful encounter. The flickering flames seemed to dance with the same intensity as his eyes, and she found herself yearning to return to the woods, to the place where their worlds had collided.
Unable to resist the pull any longer, Kagome donned her red cloak and stepped out into the night. The moon hung high in the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the landscape. She walked the familiar path to the dark woods, her heart pounding with anticipation and a hint of fear.
As she entered the forest, the whispers of the wind seemed to welcome her back. The red rose blossoms and purple violet moons shimmered in the moonlight, creating a scene of otherworldly beauty. She followed the path deeper into the woods, her steps guided by an invisible force.
"Kagome," his voice, a low murmur, echoed through the trees.
She turned, and there he was, emerging from the shadows like a ghost. Sesshomaru's presence was as commanding as ever, his golden eyes locking onto hers with an intensity that made her breath catch.
"You returned," he said, his voice a mix of surprise and something else she couldn't quite name.
"I couldn't stay away," she confessed, her voice trembling. "Not after..."
He stepped closer, closing the distance between them. "Not after our kiss," he finished for her.
Kagome nodded, unable to find the words to express the whirlwind of emotions inside her. Instead, she reached out, her fingers grazing his. The touch sent a jolt through her, a reminder of the electric connection they shared.
Sesshomaru took her hand, his grip both firm and gentle. "You are drawn to danger," he murmured, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
"Perhaps," she replied, her eyes meeting his. "Or perhaps I am drawn to you."
The forest seemed to hold its breath as they stood there, two souls entwined by fate and circumstance. Sesshomaru's gaze softened, his eyes reflecting the same longing she felt.
"Never have I come across a human woman so reckless when it comes to her safety."
"How so?" she asked, her curiosity piqued.
"You left your home in the middle of the night in nothing but your nightgown, barefoot, and entered the woods."
Kagome's face grew warm as she looked down, realizing he was right. In her haste and yearning to see him, she hadn't stopped to think to get dressed or put shoes on. The nightgown, thin and white, fluttered slightly in the breeze, her bare feet tingling against the cool forest floor.
"I... I didn't think," she stammered, feeling a mix of embarrassment and defiance.
A small, amused smile tugged at the corner of Sesshomaru's lips. "Clearly."
She looked up at him, a spark of determination in her eyes. "I wasn't thinking about danger. I was thinking about you."
His expression softened further, a rare tenderness in his gaze. "Foolish, but brave," he murmured, stepping closer. "It seems your heart speaks louder than your mind."
Kagome took a deep breath, her resolve strengthening. "And what does your heart say, Sesshomaru?"
He paused, his eyes searching hers. One hand gently grasped her face, the other running his claws through her hair, sending shivers down her spine. "We cannot be."
"What?" she whispered, her voice trembling.
"Demons and humans are not meant to be together. It is forbidden," he said, his voice laced with a mixture of sorrow and frustration.
"Forbidden?" she echoed with disbelief
"Yes," he continued, his thumb brushing against her cheek. "Our worlds are too different. The laws of my kind are strict, and the consequences severe. To defy them would be to invite chaos and danger upon us both."
Kagome's heart ached at his words, but she refused to let go of the hope that had blossomed within her. "But we have already defied the odds, haven't we? You said yourself that I am different, that you are drawn to me."
Sesshomaru's gaze softened, a flicker of anguish passing through his golden eyes. "You are different. And I am drawn to you in ways I cannot explain. But my duty and the laws of my people cannot be ignored."
She reached up, placing her hand over his. "Duty and laws can change, Sesshomaru. Hearts can change them."
He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as if to steady himself. "You do not understand the gravity of what you are saying. The risks are too great."
Ready to argue, Kagome moved forward only for him to turn away and disappear again. Leaving her alone in the dark woods. She frowned.
Her dreams were consumed by him, and during the day, she felt as though he was watching her, his presence a constant shadow. She hadn't returned to the forest since then, not when she was so confused by his actions and her own feelings.
Carrying the heavy basket from the river, Kagome walked back to her cottage, her thoughts a tangled mess. The water sloshed slightly, droplets spilling over the edge and soaking into the earth, but she paid little attention. Her mind was occupied with memories of his touch, his words, and the forbidden promise that lay between them.
Why had he kissed her if they could not be together? Why had he drawn her in only to push her away? The questions circled in her mind, each one more frustrating than the last. Her heart ached with longing and confusion, a tempest of emotions that she could not tame.
There were times she wished she hadn't met him. It would make things much easier if she hadn't. Now she was unable to return to her old life, knowing that demons existed, knowing that one who beguiled her so deeply dwelled in the forest.
"Kagome!"
It was Sango.
The young woman had her hair down this time, wearing a dress similar to Kagome's. A basket in her arms, she unlocked the fence that separated the field from Kagome's backyard.
"Sango!" Kagome immediately brightened, setting the basket down. She hugged her friend before moving to pin the laundry to the clothesline.
"I brought you more food and to deliver your gift that Kohaku sent."
Kagome's eyes lit up with curiosity. "A gift from Kohaku? How is he doing?"
Sango smiled warmly, handing her the basket. "He's doing well. He's learning a lot and making friends. He wanted to send you something that he bought from the capital."
Kagome took the basket, peeking inside to see a beautifully metal pendant charm. "This is lovely," she said, holding it up to admire the craftsmanship. "Tell Kohaku I'm grateful and that I miss him."
Sango nodded, watching Kagome's face closely. "You seem troubled, Kagome. Is everything alright?"
Kagome hesitated, glancing towards the forest. "I've just been... thinking a lot lately. About things I never thought I'd have to consider."
Sango's expression softened with concern. "Is it about the woods? The stories?"
"Something like that," Kagome murmured, her fingers tracing the charm. "It's complicated, Sango."
Sango stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on her friend's shoulder. "You can tell me anything, you know that."
Kagome sighed, feeling the weight of her secret pressing down on her. "It's about the woods, yes. But more specifically, someone I met there."
Sango's eyes widened slightly. "Someone? You mean...?"
"A demon," Kagome whispered, the word heavy on her tongue. "His name is Sesshomaru. He's the one from the stories, and he's... not what I expected."
Sango's grip tightened. "Kagome, this is dangerous. You need to be careful."
"I know," Kagome replied, her voice trembling. "But he's not like the others. There's something between us, something I can't explain."
Sango's expression turned serious. "Whatever it is, you need to stay safe. Promise me you won't do anything reckless."
Kagome nodded, her heart aching with the weight of her unspoken fears and desires. "I promise."
As Sango helped her hang the laundry, Kagome's mind wandered back to the forest, to the golden eyes that haunted her dreams and the forbidden kiss that had changed everything.
"You're thinking about him still, it seems," Sango observed, moving to remove the fresh bread she had made from the oven. "Just tell me what happened between you two."
Kagome hesitated, her fingers lingering on a linen sheet as she pinned it to the clothesline. "It's complicated, Sango. He's... different."
Sango set the bread on the table, her expression gentle but persistent. "Different how? I want to understand, Kagome."
Taking a deep breath, Kagome turned to face her friend. "He's a demon, Sango. His name is Sesshomaru. I met him in the woods, and he's not like the demons from the stories. He's... compelling, powerful, and he kissed me."
Sango's eyes widened with surprise. "A demon kissed you? Kagome, this is serious. What did he say to you?"
"He said that our love is forbidden, that demons and humans aren't meant to be together," Kagome explained, her voice trembling. "But there's something between us that I can't deny. He said he's watched over me for years, and I feel the same pull towards him."
Sango's face softened with concern and empathy. "Kagome, this sounds like something out of a fairy tale, but it's real, and it's dangerous. What do you plan to do?"
"I don't know," Kagome admitted, tears welling in her eyes. "I can't stop thinking about him, and I feel him watching me even when he's not there. I know it's risky, but I can't ignore what I feel."
Sango stepped forward, taking Kagome's hands in hers. "Listen to me, Kagome. Love is powerful, but so is fear. You need to be careful. If you truly believe that there's something worth fighting for, then you have to be smart about it. Don't let your heart lead you into danger without thinking things through."
"I understand,"
Kagome waved at Sango, who waved back before trekking back toward the village. She wouldn't see Sango for another week as she had more deliveries to deliver in the neighboring village. The pinks and oranges of the sunset bled into the sky as Sango walked through the field of flowers that separated Kagome's cottage from the village.
Moving to the back, Kagome began to unpin her laundry from the clothesline, tossing the garments into the basket. The rhythmic motion was soothing, but her thoughts kept drifting back to the forest and the demon who haunted her dreams. She paused, her heart racing. Was it him? Had he come to see her?
"Kagome," a deep, familiar voice called out from the shadows.
Her breath caught in her throat, and she turned slowly, her eyes scanning the edge of the forest. There he was, emerging from the heavy fog, his golden eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that made her knees weak.
"Sesshomaru," she whispered, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and longing.
He stepped closer, his presence commanding yet tinged with a strange gentleness. "You have been avoiding the forest."
"I... I didn't know what to think," she admitted, setting the basket down. "I've been so confused."
He reached out, his hand brushing against her cheek. The touch was electric, sending shivers down her spine. "It is not easy, this path we have chosen."
"No, it's not," she agreed, her eyes searching his. "But I can't stop thinking about you. I feel you with me, even when you're not there."
Sesshomaru's expression softened, a flicker of emotion passing through his eyes. "I have watched over you, even from afar. I cannot help it."
"Then why did you say we cannot be together?" she asked, the frustration and hurt clear in her voice.
He sighed, a sound filled with both sorrow and resolve. "Because I wanted to protect you. The world is cruel, Kagome, and our union is forbidden."
"Then why are you here?" she pressed, her voice breaking with the weight of her emotions.
A look of forlorn longing passed over his face before he leaned against the tree, his gaze never leaving hers. "Demons will be visiting here in a few days' time. I ask that you stay away from the forest. They do not take kindly to humans."
Kagome's heart ached at the thought of not seeing him, but she understood the danger. "I don't want to lose you, Sesshomaru."
"And I do not wish to lose you," he murmured, his voice heavy with longing. "For now, stay safe and away from the forest."
The tension between them was palpable, a magnetic pull that neither could resist. She stepped closer, her hand reaching out to touch his. "Promise me you'll come back."
He took her hand, his grip firm yet tender. "I promise."
With that, he leaned down, capturing her lips in a kiss that was filled with both passion and sorrow. It was a kiss that sparked heat in her cheeks, an electric current washing over.
As he pulled away, his eyes lingered on hers, filled with an intensity that made her heart race. "Until we meet again."
"Until then," she whispered, watching as he disappeared into the shadows of the forest, leaving her warm and breathless, her heart aching with both love and fear.
She stood there for a long moment, the memory of his touch lingering on her skin, the promise of his return a bittersweet hope that she clung to.
The moon hung high in the sky as Kagome made her way back from the village, the path illuminated by its silvery glow. She had spent the entire day caring for a sick child, and now, exhausted, she hurried home, the shadows of the night stretching long and dark around her.
As she reached her cottage, she noticed the laundry still hanging on the clothesline. Sighing, she moved to gather it, the cool night air chilling her skin. Her thoughts drifted to Sesshomaru, as they often did, a mix of longing and frustration twisting her heart.
Suddenly, a strange sound rustled through the trees, a whisper of danger that set her nerves on edge. She paused, her eyes scanning the darkened woods.
"Come closer..." a voice hissed, low and malevolent.
As though some magic was casted over her, she found her feet moving towards the forest against their will. She walked the familiar path from her cottage, her senses being pushed into overdrive, something sharp and cold struck her side. Pain exploded through her, and she stumbled, clutching the wound in her torso as warm blood seeped through her fingers.
Kagome's survival instincts kicked in, propelling her forward through the dark woods. Her heart pounded in her chest, her breaths coming in ragged gasps as she fled deeper into the forest, her blood leaving a trail behind her. Panic surged as she remembered Sesshomaru's warning about the visiting demons. They would surely sniff her out, especially now that she was bleeding.
Branches clawed at her skin and clothes, the forest seeming to conspire against her. Her vision blurred with tears and pain, but she pushed on, her mind racing for a plan. She could hear the creature's footsteps behind her, a rhythmic thudding that seemed to match her heartbeat, each step filled with malevolent intent.
Suddenly, she tripped over an exposed root, her body crashing to the ground. Pain shot through her, but she forced herself to her knees, trying to scramble away. It was too late. The demon who attacked her, a man with pale skin and glowing red eyes, loomed over her, his expression twisted with maniacal glee.
His laughter echoed through the forest, a chilling sound that made her blood run cold. He grabbed her by the shoulders, his claws sinking into her flesh as he pulled her closer, his breath hot against her ear.
"Such a foolish human," he sneered. "To think you could escape me."
Kagome struggled, her strength waning as blood poured from her wounds. The demon's claws tore into her, ripping through skin and muscle with a sickening ease. Her screams filled the night, mingling with the demon's laughter. Excruciating pain shot through her as she felt her bones breaking, his cackles echoing in her ears, his glowing red eyes filled with malice.
In her quickly fading vision, she saw a flash of silver and purple—Sesshomaru. He moved with lightning speed, a blur of deadly grace, his eyes blazing with fury. Her head lolled to the side as she watched him transform into a large silver dog, his fur glistening in the moonlight. He fought the demon who attacked her, their battle fierce and relentless, the demon's tentacles dodging the large dog.
Sesshomaru's transformation back into his human form was swift and seamless, his golden eyes glinting with a deadly resolve. He stared down at the lifeless body of the demon he had just vanquished, his breath coming in ragged, controlled breaths, his chest heaving with the remnants of his fury.
The forest fell silent, the once oppressive darkness now a stark contrast to the dim moonlight filtering through the trees.
"S–Sesshomaru…" she whispered, a warm liquid spilling past her lips as she reached out for him, her fingers trembling. "I'm… sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible, her eyes searching for the reassurance she desperately needed.
She didn't know what he was saying, his mouth was moving but no words were coming out.
Tears welled in her eyes as she felt the warmth of his presence, the strength of his arms around her, and the burning intensity of his gaze. Her world dimmed, but she clung to the sound of his voice, the feeling of his touch, and the promise that he would not let her go.
Sesshomaru's golden eyes, filled with a rare and profound grief, bore into hers. She tried to speak, to tell him how much he meant to her, that she loved him but the words wouldn't come. Her strength ebbed away, her vision narrowing to a dark tunnel with only his face at the end. The pain was fading, replaced by a cold numbness that seeped into her bones.
"Please," she heard him say, his voice cracking with raw emotion. "You cannot leave me."
The last thing she felt was the fierce, protective embrace of the demon who had captured her heart, his tears spilling onto her face, mingling with her blood. She heard his final, desperate murmur, "You are mine, Kagome. And I will not let you go," before everything went black, her last conscious thought filled with longing and sorrow.
The scent of sweet human blood filled the air, a tantalizing aroma that drew predators from miles around. Sesshomaru's sensitive nose twitched, the iron tang of it setting his blood aflame. His ears were assaulted by the piercing screams of Kagome, each cry a dagger to his heart. His eyes bled red, claws elongating with the promise of violence as he sped through the woods, every fiber of his being driven by a primal urge to reach her.
When he arrived, the sight before him was a nightmare. Kagome lay on the forest floor, her body ravaged and broken, blood pooling beneath her. The demon who had attacked her loomed above, a sick grin plastered on his pale face. Without a second thought, Sesshomaru's rage exploded just as he lost control of his beast and transformed.
Kagome's labored breaths were shallow and weak, her life slipping away with each passing second. Sesshomaru knelt beside her, cradling her fragile form in his powerful arms. Her skin was deathly pale, her body growing colder by the moment. Panic and an unfamiliar emotion— fear —gripped him.
"No," he growled, his voice breaking. "You cannot leave me."
Her eyes fluttered open, glazed with pain and fading light. "Sesshomaru…" she whispered, her voice barely more than a breath. "I'm sorry…"
"You will not die," he commanded. "I refuse it."
She stared at him with love and adoration, he could feel her life force slipping away, her strength disappearing as her body began to grow cold. The usual warmth he felt from her, disappearing as she grew limp in his arms. Her eyes closing.
"You are mine, Kagome. And I will not let you go." He growled, feeling his fangs elongating and his control of his beast slipping once more.
Desperation surged through him. He could not— would not —lose her. With a fierce determination, he leaned down, his fangs gleaming in the moonlight. "Forgive me," he murmured, his voice trembling with emotion. Then, he sank his fangs into her neck, piercing the delicate skin.
Kagome's body jerked at the initial pain, but then a strange warmth spread through her, mingling with the cold that had been consuming her. Sesshomaru's youki, his demonic energy, flowed into her, a dark and potent force that intertwined with her own fragile life force. He poured his grief, his anger, his desperate love into that connection, his essence merging with hers in a way that was both intimate and violent.
Her blood sang to him, a bittersweet melody that filled his senses. He drank deeply, his mind a whirlwind of chaotic emotions. He could feel her life slipping away, and with it, his sanity threatened to unravel.
"Stay with me, Kagome," he whispered against her skin, his voice raw with emotion. "I will not let you go. You are mine, and I will not lose you."
The forest around them seemed to hold its breath, the very air charged with a dark, electric energy. Sesshomaru's youki enveloped them both, a swirling vortex of power. Her body mending itself of all wounds she had sustained. He growled, shaking her ever so gently, yet her head still lolled to the side.
Why wasn't she waking up?
"Please…Kagome." He buried his face into the crook of her neck, where he had bitten her, the skin warm from the mating mark that began to appear on her skin.
A large violet crescent moon appeared on her skin, with small red and white cherry blossoms near it.
Grief and cold anger washed over him, tears cascading down his face as he held her still warm, limp body to his own. Her scent was fading quickly, replaced by the overwhelming scent of her blood saturating her clothing and his own.
He couldn't leave her there, abandoned and defenseless in the cold depths of the forest. Sesshomaru's heart pounded with a deep, aching guilt that clung to him like a shroud. He needed to take care of her, to make up for failing her.
With careful, deliberate movements, he wrapped his arms around her, lifting her with a tenderness that belied his fearsome strength. His breath hitched as he felt the cold weight of loss settle heavily upon him. A glimmer of hope still flickered, fueled by the bond they now shared, but it was overshadowed by the darkness of his failure.
Sesshomaru moved swiftly through the forest, his steps as silent as the shadows that cloaked them. The night seemed to close in around them, suffocating him with the weight of his anguish. Each step he took was a solemn promise, a vow that he would not let her go.
He reached the sanctuary of his domain, a fortress-like shiro hidden deep within the heart of the forest. The presence of other demons within its walls faded into the background as he focused on the task at hand. With a heart heavy with remorse, he laid her down on a soft bed of furs in his own chambers.
His breath caught as he watched her, the faint rise and fall of her chest a sliver of hope that life still clung to her. Sesshomaru's fingers trembled as he knelt beside her, his eyes searching her face for any sign of awakening.
"You are mine, Kagome," he murmured, his voice a broken, desperate whisper. "And I will not let you go. Not now, not ever."
Following his instincts, he removed both of their garments and gently submerged her into the hot spring. The water steamed and swirled around them, the heat of it a stark contrast to the chill that had permeated his soul. He washed her with a gentleness he hadn't known he possessed, his touch reverent as he sought to cleanse her of the taint of her ordeal.
Once she was cleaned and dried, he dressed her in a soft, warm robe and groomed her hair, his movements painstakingly careful. It was as if he feared that the slightest pressure would shatter her, leaving him with nothing but shattered fragments of what they could have been.
As the night wore on, Sesshomaru kept vigil by her side, his heart a turbulent sea of emotions. Guilt and longing warred with his anger and helplessness. Never had he felt such fear and anguish as he did now, knowing that his reckless pursuit of solitude had brought her into this darkness.
He watched over her, his eyes never wavering, his resolve unbroken. In the stillness of the night, under the watchful gaze of the moon, Sesshomaru made a silent vow to the woman who now bore his mating mark.
"I will not lose you, Kagome," he whispered, his voice trembling with the weight of his promise. "You are mine, and I will protect you with all that I am."
Sesshomaru paced the dimly lit chamber, his thoughts consumed by the weight of his decision. The bond between him and Kagome had complicated his existence in ways he had not anticipated, and now, as the father of a demon lord, Toga's presence loomed heavy upon his shoulders.
The large doors creaked open, and Toga's figure emerged from the shadows, his silver hair glinting faintly in the moonlight. His eyes, deep and wise, softened as he observed his son's troubled expression.
"She is healing," Toga began, his voice smooth and unhurried. "But this bond between you complicates much. You have brought a human into your domain, defying tradition, and stirred the court's scrutiny."
Toga's presence was always like a ghost in the background, a shadow of authority that Sesshomaru had learned to navigate. Now, the weight of his gaze was unsettling, probing into the depths of Sesshomaru's soul.
Sesshomaru paused, his jaw clenched as he struggled to find his own path. "I care little for tradition, Father," he admitted quietly. "But I will not allow her to be used as a pawn in your court's games."
Toga's eyes softened further as he regarded his son. "And yet, Sesshomaru, you have brought her into this world, a world that thrives on power and control. You must now navigate the consequences that arise from it."
Sesshomaru's eyes flickered with determination. "I will protect her," he vowed. "And I will not allow my mother's disdain for humans to touch her."
Sesshomaru's shoulders relaxed slightly at his father's words, as if some weight had lifted. "I will end the festival early, send them back and allow her the space needed to learn when she awakens."
Toga moved closer, his voice low and steady. "You must tread carefully, Sesshomaru. The court's scrutiny will only intensify. But you have more strength and wisdom than any demon I have seen. Use that to guide her."
Sesshomaru nodded, his eyes flickering to Kagome's still form. "I will do whatever is necessary for her," he vowed again.
Toga's hand rested on Sesshomaru's shoulder, a silent reassurance. "You are not alone in this, my son. I will stand by you, as I always have."
A flicker of gratitude softened Sesshomaru's stern expression. "Thank you, Father," he murmured. "I will not fail her."
With those words, Toga turned and disappeared back into the shadows, leaving Sesshomaru with a newfound sense of resolve.
Through the lingering darkness, Sesshomaru's gaze softened as he looked at Kagome. His fingers lightly brushed against her cheek, his heart pounding with a fierce determination to protect her from the harsh realities of the demon world. The bond they shared, though fragile and uncertain, had sparked something deep within him—an unwavering resolve to see her safe and cherished.
And with each passing moment, as Sesshomaru sat vigil beside her, his promise to protect and nurture their bond grew ever stronger.
Kagome stirred slowly, her body aching and her mind foggy as she began to regain consciousness. She blinked against the dim light filtering through a window, her vision adjusting to the unfamiliar surroundings. Her head throbbed, and she felt strangely disoriented, as though she had awoken from a deep, unnatural sleep.
She turned to glance around the room, her senses alerting her to the unfamiliar texture beneath her fingers. The bed she lay on was covered in luxurious silk, and as she pushed herself up, she noticed her skin felt softer and warmer than before. Her fingers traced the smooth silk, and she felt her nails—long, sharp, and perfectly trimmed. She didn't remember having nails like this.
Confused, she pushed herself out of the bed and gingerly made her way to the door. She opened it slowly, her eyes scanning the narrow hallway beyond. The walls were lined with ornate murals, depicting scenes of a world she couldn't quite comprehend—a world of demons, battles, and a lush, ancient forest.
Curiosity propelled her forward, and she stepped out of the room and began to explore the shiro. The fortress was vast, its corridors winding and intricate, adorned with elaborate tapestries and flickering torches that illuminated the ancient stone walls. She paused in a larger chamber, where a grand fireplace crackled and cast flickering shadows across the room.
Kagome's footsteps echoed softly as she wandered further into the shiro, taking in the beauty of the place. She passed by a large, open courtyard where moonlight bathed the courtyard in silver, casting long shadows of the surrounding trees. The air was cool and fragrant, and Kagome felt a strange sense of peace wash over her.
As she wandered deeper into the shiro, she realized she had no idea where she was or how she had come to be here. Her mind raced with questions, and she found herself longing to find Sesshomaru and get some answers.
Her journey led her to a set of grand stairs, where she hesitated before making her way down. She found herself in another hall, this one adorned with frescoes depicting serene landscapes and ancient trees, blending seamlessly into the wilds of the forest that surrounded the shiro. She paused for a moment to admire the artistry, feeling an unexpected sense of connection to the forest's beauty.
Kagome continued her exploration, driven by a sense of determination to find out where she was and what had happened to her. She felt a lingering sense of familiarity with the shiro, as if she had wandered these halls in another time or place. The scents of the forest, the ancient stone, and the faint fragrance of flowers blended together in a way that soothed her frayed nerves.
Finally, she stumbled upon a small library tucked away in a corner of the shiro. The room was filled with ancient scrolls and books, some in a language she couldn't understand but felt oddly drawn to. She felt an overwhelming sense of curiosity, wondering if this place held the answers she sought.
And there, in the stillness of the library, Kagome felt her ears twitch, she heard soft footsteps making their way to her. She sniffed, only to realize she could smell blood.
Kagome's breath came in rapid, shallow gasps as she sank to the floor, clutching at her chest. Her body trembled with fear as the memories of the demon's attack flooded her mind, and she struggled to contain her panic. She heard the footsteps growing closer, and her heart raced in her chest.
In a state of panic, she tried to make sense of her surroundings. Her gaze darted to the scrolls and books, searching for some form of comfort or distraction, but nothing seemed to ease the overwhelming terror that gripped her.
The footsteps grew louder, and she squeezed her eyes shut, burying her head in her hands. Her breath came in shaky gasps, and tears began to well in her eyes. She wasn't sure if she could face this fear alone.
Then, like a cool breeze brushing against her skin, Sesshomaru's youki surrounded her, wrapping her in a soothing embrace. She felt his presence before he even spoke, his voice soft and steady.
"Kagome," he murmured, his voice a comforting balm. "I am here."
She peeked through her fingers to find Sesshomaru standing in the doorway, his expression one of gentle concern. His eyes were focused on her, and there was a depth of emotion in them that she hadn't noticed before.
"Sesshomaru…" she whispered, her voice trembling.
He stepped closer, only for her to rush into his arms, collapsing. "It is all right," he assured her, his tone low and calm. "You are safe now. I will protect you."
Kagome felt his youki weave around her, calming her frayed nerves and easing the panic that gripped her. She leaned into his presence, feeling the warmth of his touch seep into her skin.
"I thought I was going to die," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
"I will not let that happen," Sesshomaru vowed, his voice low and soothing. "You are mine, Kagome. I will keep you safe."
He knelt beside her, his hand resting on her back as he offered comfort and strength. Kagome's tears flowed freely, and she allowed herself to lean into his embrace, finding solace in his presence.
In the stillness of the library, surrounded by the quiet of ancient scrolls and books, Kagome allowed herself to be enveloped by Sesshomaru's youki. His touch became her anchor, grounding her in the moment and soothing the turbulent emotions that had taken hold of her.
Sesshomaru picked her up as she continued to sob into his chest. He carried Kagome back to the room she had awakened in, her sobs gradually subsided into soft, shaky breaths. He laid her gently on the bed of furs, sitting beside her in silence as he stroked her hair, offering comfort and support.
Kagome's eyes lingered on his face, wondering about the events that had transpired. Her heart was still racing, and she felt an inexplicable bond to him that she couldn't explain. Finally, she found her voice, her tone gentle but tinged with curiosity and fear. "What happened to me?"
Sesshomaru hesitated for a moment before speaking, his voice low and steady. "To save you, I used my youki to merge with your life force," he began. "In doing so, I made you my mate and bound our lives together. You will live an immortal life with me, you have inherited my markings and some demon qualities."
Kagome's breath caught in her throat as she processed his words. The realization that her life had changed in such a profound way was overwhelming. She felt a mix of fear and confusion, but deep down, there was also a glimmer of acceptance. She reached out and placed a hand on his head, running her fingers through his hair.
"Please forgive me," he murmured. "I have failed you."
"You didn't fail me, Sesshomaru," she whispered, her voice soft and reassuring. "There was nothing you could have done to stop it."
His head buried into her lap, as he let out a shaky breath. "I should have protected you," he muttered. "I should have been there for you."
Kagome's heart ached for him, feeling the weight of his guilt and the depth of his remorse. "You did protect me," she insisted, her voice gentle. "You saved me. And now, we are bound together."
Sesshomaru's eyes closed as he let out a slow, shaky breath. "I will stand by you, Kagome," he whispered. "I will not let anything harm you again."
In the quiet of the room, surrounded by the dim light and the warmth of his embrace, Kagome found solace in knowing that their bond was strong and unbreakable. She ran her fingers through his hair, feeling a sense of peace settle over her.
"Do you love me?" She asked softly
Sesshomaru remained silent for a moment, gathering his thoughts as he felt Kagome's fingers gliding through his hair. The air in the room seemed to grow still, as though even the very walls listened to the truth that he was about to utter.
He lifted his head slightly, his golden eyes meeting hers with a depth that spoke of ancient longing and newfound hope. "I feel something for you, Kagome," he murmured, his voice deep and hushed. "It is more than mere affection. It is a bond that transcends time and space."
Kagome held her breath, waiting with bated anticipation for his next words. His gaze softened, as if he were searching his own soul for the right way to express his feelings.
"I am bound to you, Kagome," he continued, his voice thick with emotion. "Not just in this life, but in every life that comes after. I have felt the depths of my longing for you, and it is unlike anything I have ever experienced. I have realized that I belong to you in this world and the next."
He paused for a moment, his thumb brushing against her cheek. "I cannot imagine a future without you," he admitted, his voice shaking with vulnerability. "You are my heart, my soul, and my very existence."
Kagome's eyes welled with tears as she listened to the raw emotion in his voice. She cupped his face in her hands, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath her fingertips. "I feel the same, Sesshomaru," she whispered. "You have become my home in a world I never knew existed. I am yours, now and forever."
Sesshomaru leaned forward, his lips brushing against hers in a kiss that was both tender and intense, as if he were pouring all of his love and devotion into that single, fleeting touch. Kagome wrapped her arms around him, pulling him closer, feeling the warmth and strength that he offered.
"Rest," he spoke softly. "You are more tired than you realize."
In the weeks that followed, Sesshomaru devoted himself to helping her navigate her newfound abilities. She learned to control her heightened senses of hearing and smell, avoiding the discomfort that initially came with the overstimulation of her surroundings. The constant, involuntary growth of her fangs and claws was another challenge, but with Sesshomaru's guidance, she managed to suppress them at will.
Her sense of taste had become extraordinarily sensitive, and Sesshomaru helped her learn to enjoy the simple pleasures of food without being overwhelmed by its complexities. Walking had also become a task; her body had to adjust to moving at a normal pace instead of the demon speed that occasionally resulted in unintentional crashes into walls. She had become somewhat familiar with the practice of being careful, but accidents still led to more than a few dents that required Sesshomaru's assistance in repairing the walls.
Sesshomaru had also taken it upon himself to ease her concerns for her missing state. He had delivered a letter she wrote to her cottage, reassuring Sango of her well-being. In addition, he had provided her with appropriate yokai clothing to match her new identity. To ensure she was accustomed to her new life, Sesshomaru appointed a select group of attendants to assist and guide her in her daily endeavors.
He hadn't kissed her, not once, not since she had almost died. She mourned the loss of those special moments, but she forced herself to suppress her anger and frustration. Yet, as time went on, she found it harder to keep her emotions in check.
She had tried to accept that things had changed, and perhaps it was best to let go of the past. But the longing and desire within her persisted, fueling her frustration. She was tired of waiting and pretending that everything was fine.
One evening, as they strolled through the gardens, the fading light of day bathed the blossoms in a warm, amber glow. She took a deep breath and gathered her courage. Enough was enough. She turned to Sesshomaru, her expression resolute. "I'm tired of this," she declared, her voice firm.
Sesshomaru's gaze softened as he listened intently, acknowledging the pain in her tone. "What are you tired of?" he inquired, his voice low and curious.
Kagome's breath hitched as she hesitated, unsure of how to articulate the depth of her longing. Finally, she gathered her courage. "I'm your mate, aren't I?" she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "Yet not once have you kissed me or touched me more than necessary."
Sesshomaru's eyes softened further as he studied her. He took a step closer, his presence gentle yet intense. "You are my mate," he murmured, his hand reaching out to brush a lock of hair behind her ear. "That does not mean I wish to complete the bond."
Kagome clenched her jaw, trying to hold back the surge of emotion that threatened to break free. "Why not?" she demanded, her voice trembling with a mix of frustration and vulnerability.
"I made you my mate to save your life," Sesshomaru confessed, his tone low and deliberate. "I didn't give you a choice in the matter. I will not force the completion of this bond either."
Kagome felt a wave of emotions crashing over her, and her breath quickened. She longed to reach out and close the distance between them, but she hesitated. Sesshomaru's admission only deepened the ache within her.
Kagome's voice trembled as she whispered, her tone breaking, "Do you not see what you've done to me?" She paused, her eyes intense and searching his, as if pleading for understanding. "Since the first moment I met you, I cannot stop thinking of you."
Sesshomaru's eyes softened as he acknowledged the depth of her longing. His hand hovered in midair, hesitating, as if unsure how to respond. After a long moment, he stepped closer, closing the distance between them. His breath brushed against her lips, sending a shiver down her spine.
"Perhaps," he murmured, his voice low and soft, "it is time to reconsider."
Kagome squared her shoulders, determination in her gaze. She took a step back, and immediately, her claws extended, raising her hand up. With a swift motion, she slashed at the fabric of her clothing, each piece falling to the ground in beautiful, disheveled scraps of violet, white, and magenta. Leaving her bare to him. The air between them seemed to pulse with unspoken desire and intense longing.
Sesshomaru's breath hitched as he took in the sight of her, exposed and vulnerable. For a moment, he simply stared, his eyes darkening with a mix of a deep insatiable hunger, lust, and possession. But as he glanced up to meet her gaze, his expression softened just briefly.
"You are tempting me," his voice had dropped into a husky growl.
"Take me here and now Sesshomaru, I am begging you," Kagome whimpered as a cold gust brushed across her bare skin.
Instantly, his hand was wrapped around her neck as he had her on her back staring up at him, his eyes were bleeding red, his magenta stripes were jagged. Kagome whimpered, her legs instantly spreading for him as he nearly crushed her body with his weight. He buried his nose into the column of her neck, his tongue lavishing the mark with attention.
Each press of his lips to her skin made her body clench in anticipation. In a controlled frenzy, he pressed kisses down her body, past her navel and to the small patch of black curls above her slit, Kagome was panting and gripping his hair.
Sesshomaru's hands slid slowly up the inside of Kagome's legs. He pressed open mouth kisses on her inner thigh while she started to writhe, desperate for more.
"Please, Sesshomaru…" Kagome's voice trembled with need.
Sesshomaru looked up from between Kagome's legs and saw her watching him intently. His lips ghosted over her cunt, barely touching the skin. He pulled back just enough to flick his tongue across his lips and taste her slick sweet arousal.
"Please what?" he asked as his hands finally reached the tops of her thighs.
The sight of Kagome's heaving breasts, flushed face, and lust-filled eyes nearly broke his control. Just as she was about to answer, he smirked and brushed a claw lightly up her slit.
Kagome's body tensed at the small touch, and a moan spilled from her lips. His warm breath on her pussy only made her feel hotter. She wanted to feel everything, "please," she whispered.
"Such a desperate little thing," he said with a smirk, his words separated by light kisses to the juncture of her thighs and pussy. He listened to her breath catch in her throat as he pressed reverent kisses to her outer lips while his hands spread her legs as wide as they would go.
Kagome's face flushed a deep red when Sesshomaru pushed her legs open, his devious smirk making her arousal spike. His eyes devoured every inch of her bare flesh from her flushed face downward. When they returned to her cunt, she watched as he licked his lips before slowly lowering his head and running his tongue up her slit. His hands moved back down to her center, and she felt his thumbs pushing her lower lips apart before all thought escaped her.
Sesshomaru moaned when his tongue circled around her glistening hole, and Kagome's moans followed. He kept his eyes locked on hers while he lightly blew on the moist skin, and when she shivered and moaned again.
Kagome cried out in pure pleasure when Sesshomaru slammed two fingers into her and closed his mouth over her sensitive bundle. His tongue flicked and flitted over that little nub before he lightly sucked and clamped his teeth around it. "Sesshomaru! Oh god…" she moaned, arching her back as his fingers pistoned in and out of her with a fervent speed.
Sesshomaru slid his free hand up her body, reveling in the smooth skin of her hips and waist before he finally palmed her breast. He brushed his thumb over her nipple, feeling it harden at his touch, and couldn't suppress the groan that spilled from him. Her moans turned into all-out screams and cries of pleasure, her body writhing and bucking as he brought her closer to her climax. Between one thrust and the next, Sesshomaru added a third finger, pushing harder and faster into her as he felt her walls tighten around him in anticipation of her impending orgasm.
"That's it," he rasped against her cunt before he nibbled on her clit again.
Kagome's eyes rolled back, her cunt tightening painfully around Sesshomaru's fingers when he spoke. Every thrust into her had her climbing higher and higher, the cord inside her wound tighter than she'd ever thought possible. Her hands continued to tangle in Sesshomaru's hair as she rolled her hips and ground herself against his mouth and fingers, screaming loudly with every thrust into her.
Garbled versions of his name, and even a few curses left her mouth while she let herself get swept away in the pleasure coursing through her. She felt every twist of his hand, every time his fingers swirled around and curled inside her, every flick of his tongue across her.
Sesshomaru quickly pulled his fingers out of her and pushed his tongue into her waiting heat, lapping up every bit of her climax before she could even finish screaming his name. His hands slid under her legs and wrapped around her hips to keep her pressed against his mouth as her back arched, drawing out the clenching spasms inside of her for as long as he possibly could.
When Kagome slowly floated back to herself, she realized that her entire body was quaking in the aftermath. Her grip on Sesshomaru's hair loosened, and her hands slowly slid from his head to fall limply. She whimpered and mewled in pleasure as Sesshomaru carefully licked every remnant of her arousal from her, blushing lightly when his tongue moved down to the rounded cheeks of her ass and up onto her thighs.
Her own eyes began to bleed red, a low growl in her throat. He knew she was on the verge of taking control. Grabbing his cock, he rubbed the flared head against her slick folds, watching in mesmerization as her cunt took him beautifully. Flicking his gaze back to her, he watched as her eyes practically glowed. Once fully sheathed inside her, he let out a low growl, he sat up on his legs and positioned her in his lap.
Sesshomaru groaned loudly when the angle changed, and he felt his cock hit that wonderful sweet spot deep inside. Kagome's breathing quickened as he made sure to hit it with every thrust, and Sesshomaru could feel his body tightening in response to hers. Even though he was lost in every noise she made, and just how wonderful it felt to have her wrapped around him.
Fed up with the pace he was setting for her, she took matters into her own hands. Quite literally. Placing her hands on his chest, she roughly pushed him down onto the ground, then slammed herself onto him and rolled her hips before repeating. She watched as Sesshomaru's eyes widened before his eyes flickered from white to red, before rolling back, his adam's apple bobbing deliciously. His hands locked onto her hips and pulled her more forcefully onto him, his hips flexing to meet her with every thrust. Kagome lost her balance and fell forward, catching herself with her hands on either side of Sesshomaru's head while she kept riding him, both of them not caring in the slightest how loudly they were moaning at that point.
Sesshomaru's eyes blazed as he gazed up at her, his demonic markings stark against his flushed skin. His grip on her hips tightened, claws pricking her skin just enough to send a shiver of pleasure through her. "Kagome," he growled, his voice rough and commanding, "take what you need."
Encouraged by his words, Kagome rode him harder, her movements frantic and desperate. She could feel the tension building within her again, a coil tightening impossibly fast. Sesshomaru thrust up into her with increasing fervor, their bodies moving in perfect, primal harmony. His hands slid up her back, pulling her down for a searing kiss that left her breathless. Their tongues tangled, the taste of each other adding fuel to the fire.
Kagome broke the kiss, panting heavily, and threw her head back, her hair cascading around them like a dark waterfall. "Sesshomaru," she moaned, her voice raw with need. "I... I'm so close..."
Sesshomaru responded with a low, guttural growl, his hips snapping up to meet hers with almost brutal intensity. "Come for me," he commanded, his voice a deep rumble that sent shivers down her spine.
With a final, powerful thrust, Kagome shattered around him, her climax ripping through her with a force that left her trembling. She cried out his name in a wanton shout, her body convulsing in ecstasy. Sesshomaru's control snapped at the sight and feel of her orgasm, and he followed her over the edge, his own release crashing over him in a wave of intense pleasure. He held her tight against him, their bodies locked together as they rode out the aftershocks, both of them panting and trembling in the aftermath.
As the intensity faded, Kagome collapsed against his chest, their hearts beating in sync. Sesshomaru's arms wrapped around her, holding her close as he pressed a tender kiss to her temple. "I love you," he murmured softly, his voice full of a rare and deep emotion.
Kagome smiled, her eyes drifting shut as she nestled into his embrace. "I love you too, Sesshomaru," she whispered, her voice full of contentment. They lay together, their bodies still intertwined, basking in the afterglow of their passion.