Chapter 40
Split moon
Karitei Tried to be strong. Really, she did. Her life's core principles were completely based on discipline and self control. But when it came down to it, admittedly she did have a weakness. And here he came waltzing back into her life a century later, his crooked smile still warm enough to make her heart skip a beat.
She hated herself for it, hated this weak spot he had cursed her with. But mostly, she hated that even after all the havoc he had wreaked on her life, she was still so easily caught in his orbit once again.
And there she was at that very moment, seeking him out in the darkness, not knowing why.
Her feet just seemed to find their own way, and she let them lead her out of the old part of the castle, into one of the forgotten, more secluded gardens. The moon hung heavy in the sky, one half a bright beaming white and the other half pitch black, and she knew she would find him here.
Delicate trees swayed in a light breeze, their leaves rustling together the only sound to be heard. The path was overgrown and worn, little more than a spattering of stones in the lush grass. This place was old, probably from the first or second age, and it had been neglected in recent years.
Her heart beat a little quicker in her chest, steps slowing.
She could feel his energy, teasing along her own. It spiked just along the edge of her conscious mind, flickering like blue flame. His presence was enough to have her pausing, her breath catching in her throat as she caught his scent on the wind.
He smelled like the crackling of campfire smoke, like when the air was lit up with sparks. It was something completely unique to him and him alone, a scent that she would know anywhere. Hot and burning inside of her.
What am I doing
Her thoughts raced frantically, but still, she walked further along the trail, going deeper into the garden and closer to the Yokai that had captured her heart all those years ago.
It was a disgrace, their union.
She knew that. It was law that the priestesses of Tsukyomi were to stay an eternal maiden… and that, she was no more. and he was a Tatsu, so different than her own kind. He possessed a deep and old magic within him, something that could only come from those with the blood of the dragon. The feeling of it tangling with her own spiritual energy had been intoxicating.
So much of her life had shifted when he'd come into it… but even knowing that, she drew closer still.
The gentle wind lifted her silver hair, and she could feel the very instant his eyes landed on her from the sent a tingling shot straight down her spine, and she felt herself trying to stand up straighter, drawing herself up more properly with her hands neatly folded in front of her.
Suddenly he appeared from one of the shadows along one of the cobblestone walls, as if he too, had sensed her. His form was slowly revealed in the darkness, and even though he was cast in shadows, seeing him was still enough to make her forget how to breathe for a moment.
Karitei stopped abruptly, schooling her face into what she hoped was a mask of even composure.
She couldn't read his face and that made her nervous. It was shrouded by his blue-black hair, falling over his brow and cascading down to his chest. He didn't try to meet her eyes either.
Inside, her heart was beating rapidly against her ribs, her hands holding a slight tremor. Just seeing him made her feel things that she had fought so desperately to shove away, emotions that had confused and tormented her for years now brought violently back to the surface.
"Mamoru…" she bowed her head to him, unsure of how to gauge his reaction when he was being so stone cold. Even the energy swirling around him was calm and cool, a pale blue river that wound around him seamlessly.
A tremulous beat passed, the silence felt like it was crushing her lungs.
He seemed so stoic to her at that moment, and even more handsome than he had been in the old days.
His face had matured, his jawline sharp and cutting. His body was muscled and lean, even more so than she had remembered, and he towered over her by at least a foot.
She was undeniably attracted to him, even after all these years. He was the only male she had ever felt such a way towards, and it was a scary feeling.
"Lady Karitei."
He said at last, his voice rough. Still, he didn't look up.
"Have you been convening with our master out here in the garden? The moon is shining on us tonight." She said softly, her voice coaxing and kind. She could tell that the Tatsu was not himself.
Though, admittedly, she barely knew him at all anymore. It had been so long since they were close. There was a time when they would stay up into the early hours of the morning talking and laughing. Sometimes he would write her poems, reading them aloud to her beneath the moon. Those days were long gone, turned to ash and dust under her fingertips. But even still, she had a sense that he was off.
"Not this evening, priestess."
After a long moment he finally answered, sounding bitter as he pulled his head up to meet her eyes at last.
When their eyes met it was like the rest of the world fell away.
It had always been like that, even the first time she'd spotted him breezing into the temple all those years ago. It felt like a lifetime and an instant had passed, all at once.
Her breath hitched, feeling the tingling pull in her chest as she was drawn closer by some magnetic force that led her feet to slowly take a step towards him.
He was looking her up and down unabashedly, caught in the moment, and admittedly, she did the same. He wore a light grey kimono and hakama, the plain fabric draping off of him and lifting in the slight breeze along with ribbons of his blue-black hair. His features had always been so strong and sharp, with high cheekbones and a proud, thin nose that was framed by thick dark brows, giving him a serious air about him. He had a pronounced cupid's bow above full lips, and her eyes lingered there as if of their own free will.
She had to physically stop herself from getting any closer to him, it felt like she had to put every ounce of self control she possessed into making her legs just stop moving.
She had to be careful with him, Karitei reminded herself.
Because of his dragon bloodline Mamoru had a very special ability, one that could easily disarm almost anyone, but especially those who were weak willed. He was a creature who fed off of energy, and could manipulate it at his own desire. He could enthrall his prey and feed off of them that way, she was no stranger to it. Though her mind and her spiritual power were strong, she could not allow herself to become too relaxed around him, just in case.
"And what brings you out here at this hour, my Lady?"
His tone was curious, and the question took her off guard, though it shouldn't have really. But she had no believable excuse. There was no good reason for her to be in this garden so late at night, though her den wasn't far from here. She was left stammering, knowing there was no use in lying to him. He would sniff it out in an instant.
"Honestly, I came to speak with you…"
Her mind flashed with images of all the times they had spent together. the innocent meetings at first, where they would study the old texts and slowly, they had become more comfortable. So comfortable that they both had broken their own sacred vows.
His eyes flashed with surprise at her unexpected confession, his dark eyebrow quirking up in confusion. What could she possibly want with him? At their last meeting she had been standoffish, though by the end, she was much more open, and she had said that she would call on him again. He just didn't think that she would actually do it, especially not so soon.
"Is there something plaguing your mind, priestess?"
His voice had dropped lower, hushed as if someone could overhear them. The sound rolled over her skin like slow, sweet honey and she fought off a shiver. There was something in his tone, something that had her taking pause.
She was at a loss, unsure of what to say now that she had gotten herself tangled up with him. She could feel his energy flicking around him curiously, swirling like smoke to her spiritual eyes.
It was then that she realized just how closely she had drifted towards him, drawn into his orbit so effortlessly. There was a scant foot or so between them, barely enough to remain chaste. They didn't touch, she dare not break that boundary. Though, as she looked into his eyes, glimmering with facets of different colors and framed by thick lashes, she found that her resolve wavered, if only for a moment. Her eyes traced down his face, over the proud slope of his nose, his high cheekbones that were highlighted by moonlight, and down to his full lips…
He seemed to be studying her too, just as caught up as she was. Something inside her finally snapped her out of her trance, and she took a hasty step backward.
"I fear much is plaguing me these days…" she murmured, her voice soft and pensive.
She didn't feel like herself. When he was around she lost all sense of self control, all sense of honor and she hated it.
He was her weakness.
She was at loath to admit it, but it was true. and yet… there she was. With the very man who was the object of all of her desires, but he held her ruin as well. The thought weighed her down like a stone.
"Shall we take a walk? Perhaps it would ease your mind." He suggested, as if sensing the dark turn her thoughts had taken.
Her eyes flickered up towards him, studying him for a long moment before she hesitantly nodded at last.
"Perhaps." She agreed softly.
So she let him lead her deeper into the forgotten garden, the light of the moon shining down so brightly that their shadows stretched across the pale grass.
They walked in silence for a long while, neither of them knowing what to say.
She couldn't help but to steal glances up at him as they walked. His smooth black hair, so dark that it almost shone blue, poured over his shoulders and down his back, catching the light and lifting as the wind blew through the garden, holding a slight chill. He stood almost a foot taller than her, her head barely reaching his lean shoulders, and that sent a thrill through her that she wished she could shake away.
She shouldn't be thinking of him this way, shouldn't be admiring the way he looked in the pale moonlight. But she couldn't stop herself. Being so close to him it was hard to keep composed, and she hated herself for it. Even his scent called to her, smoke and something else she couldn't decipher. In all her years he was the only one who ever held that scent, and she wondered if it was just because of his bloodline.
She couldn't say, she'd never met another Tatsu. They were an elusive breed, and what remained of the proud clan was tucked away, far from the island, living in near secrecy.
"I missed this."
His voice was soft, barely above a whisper as he finally broke the tepid silence.
He looked down at her, catching her staring.
She blushed fiercely, looking away quickly, embarrassed.
"What did you miss?" She asked curiously, her voice just as low, still unable to bring herself to look back at him again. She feared she might get caught in those swirling multicolored eyes, and might let herself drown in them if she wasn't careful.
"Just you." He shook his head as if to clear it, seemingly fighting something within himself.
"I didn't think I would ever see you again… but I hoped."
She swallowed thickly, her heart skipping a beat.
"I didn't think I would see you, either. For all I knew you were just gone. I thought it was all a ruse… that you only wanted the orb, never me."
Karitei picked at her sleeve, avoiding his eyes as she felt his intense gaze bore down into her.
"I hope you know now that that was never the case. You were… everything to me." His words sat heavily on the air as they kept walking, her chest feeling heavy with the pain of past hurts.
You were everything to me
Not anymore. But why did she want that so badly?
"Our duty forbids us… though trust me… I want nothing more."
Mamoru's voice dropped an octave, his tone low and serious. It was as if he'd sensed her thoughts. She could hear the pain and regret lacing his words and she knew that he was feeling everything she was. The pain of what they could have had, if only things had been different.
She couldn't bear to look at him. If she did she might lose her resolve.
"I… I would have left the temple for you, you know." It came out much more bitter than she had intended, but she couldn't take the words back as they passed her lips. It was the truth, and he deserved to know. "We could have made a life together." The last part came out only as a whisper, as if she dared not speak it aloud.
He stopped.
His dark hair hung over his eyes as he stared at the ground, refusing to look at her.
Karitei paused but didn't go to him, though every instinct in her was screaming at her too. What she had said had hurt him, cut him more deeply than any blade because it was the pain of regret that was stabbing at him. Everything could have been different, if they'd only tried a hundred years ago. Now it was much too late.
"I'm sorry."
He said at last, his voice strained.
"I would have left it all behind for you. Everything. We could've been so happy."
He seemed so small to her then, his spirit reflecting how vulnerable he was in that moment. She took a step towards him, unable to keep herself away any longer. Gently, she reached out to place a light hand over his own where it hung fisted at his side.
The instant their skin touched it was like a shockwave passed through her, lighting her up from the inside. His eyes snapped to hers and she could instantly tell that he had felt it too.
Neither of them pulled away.
She left her hand on top of his, her heart racing as they looked deeply into each other's eyes. His gaze was piercing. He could see straight down into her soul with those flickering, mosaic orbs that almost seemed to glow with their own light
He loomed over her, barely a scant foot between them, their faces even closer.
Slowly, as if she were some skittish animal, he turned his hand over and opened his palm before gently intertwining his fingers with her own, his eyes never leaving hers.
It was wrong. She knew it as plain as day.
They could never be together. Their union was cursed.
But then why was she drifting closer?
Why did she hold his hand even tighter?
Why did her breath catch in her throat every damn time she looked at him?
She didn't have the answers.
It was something in the way he carried himself, or maybe something about the way his features aligned so perfectly, from the proud slope of his nose to his high cheekbones. There was something in him that called out to her spirit, something that she had fought for a hundred years to ignore.
"Karitei…"
Her name fell from his lips, his voice a river of velvet caressing her skin as the silence was finally broken. She loved the way it sounded when he said it.
She was scared to speak. Scared that whatever she said would shatter this moment and then he would be gone again.
"I don't think I can resist you." Mamoru said at last, sounding defeated as he held her hand close to his heart. The moonlight played off of his pale skin, tinged blue in the darkness and she couldn't tear her eyes away. They were locked on his face, drinking up every detail and relishing in the rare moment of closeness between them. He had impossibly long eyelashes for a man, they were inky black and framed his almond shaped eyes beautifully, almost feminine.
She didn't know what to say. She almost found herself sputtering, but she fought to compose herself even though her heart was dancing inside her ribs.
"We can't."
She said finally, searching his face.
He only looked down at her with a small wistful smile on his full lips, quiet and thinking.
She could practically see the thoughts swirling in his head, the gears turning behind his eyes as he seemed to contemplate something for a long drawn out moment.
Somehow the hand he still held fast in his grip was now pressed firmly to his chest, and she could feel his heart pounding there just as violently as hers. The contact still felt like electricity, the feel of his skin so delicious she didn't know how much longer she could be strong.
"Just one kiss."
The Inu priestesses eyes went wide, her lips parting in a protest that never came. She couldn't get the words out with him looking at her like that. She realized just how close they were, their bodies nearly touching, the breath between them growing hot with an instant tension. His eyes shone with something she hadn't seen directed towards her in a long time, pure want, and before she could come to her senses he was leaning down and gently capturing her mouth with his own.
His lips were soft, warm and seeking. It was like fireworks going off behind her eyes and she couldn't help but to melt into him. Strong arms wound around her and held her there, while their lips tenderly met in what could only be described as a kiss that was filled with so many things.
Regret, loss, and love. She could taste the pain tingling at her lips, could feel his mourning in the fervent way he held her so close.
There was no lewdness, no wanton gasping, but there was no lack of passion.
Karitei let herself get lost in the moment, her hands drifting up to find purchase on his broad shoulders and all she could think of was him. his scent, the way he felt beneath her fingers, how she longed to touch his silky skin. He tasted like fresh bitten fruit, and it was addictive.
She didn't want it to end.
They stayed that way for a long moment, gently tasting each other and saying what they couldn't with just words.
When their lips finally parted they stayed close together, neither of them quite ready to break away and face the reality of what they had done. It wasn't quite a broken vow, but it was enough. They'd crossed a line, and if she knew anything she knew that there would be consequences.
The breeze whipped his dark hair around them like a curtain, encompassing them. He still held her close to his chest, looking down with those large unblinking eyes.
She'd missed him more than she was able to admit.
Never had she felt this way for anyone, and certainly not a male. No one had ever captured her in such a way, she was altogether helpless when it came to him. But their past was so heavy. It weighed down on the both of them, and she knew she could never forget… but maybe she could truly forgive him and move past it.
But then what?
What were they left with?
There was no future where they could end up together, and that stung.
He made her want things. Things that she shouldn't.
Mamoru, as if sensing the storm brewing behind her eyes, held her closer, pressing a chaste kiss to her forehead which she didn't shy away from.
"I'm sorry."
He said roughly, his voice barely above a whisper.
She wasn't sure what he was apologizing for… whatever happened between them before, or for kissing her.
"Don't be." She smoothed her hands over his chest, wanting to lean in for another kiss as her eyes locked on his full, swollen lips. But she held back, finally meeting his gaze. She wanted to wipe away the look of sadness and grief that she saw there so plainly, and wanted to hold him and comfort him just as she had all those years ago. But she knew that she didn't dare. This couldn't happen again. She wouldn't risk losing everything all over again in his blaze while he left her with the ashes.
"We should get back…"
At her words he nodded dejectedly, instantly letting her go.
The loss of his warmth felt like a knife in her gut but she forced herself to keep her composure. At least for just a while longer until she could get back to her den, there she could lament in private.
they walked the way back in a tense silence, neither of them knowing what to say.
It was clear that they had both felt the intense, instant connection with just that simple kiss. His lips were forged with fire and she felt its effect all the way down to her bones. Her mind was a frenzy of mixed thoughts and she hoped that it didn't show on her face as they walked next to each other quietly.
When they reached the beginning of the path it split off, one way going back towards the palace and the other leading off through the grove of carefully placed, overgrown trees.
"Thank you for walking with me."
Karitei said softly, finally meeting his eyes as she stopped, knowing that this was where they parted ways.
His eyes flashed with something she couldn't decipher.
"Of course." He nodded, "have a good evening, Lady Karitei. If you need me you know where to find me."
He didn't wait for her to respond and instead turned quickly on his heel and went the other way, off into the darkness of the trees, almost instantly disappearing into the shadows.
There was a deep pang of pain rattling in her chest as she could only watch him go. Maybe in another life they wouldn't have ended up this way. The thought did nothing to comfort her as she slowly made her way back to her den to mourn everything that they could have been.
The next morning Kagome awoke with a jolt.
"What is it?" InuYasha murmured, immediately rousing and wrapping his arms back around her.
"My dream…" she said dazedly. Her heart pounded in her chest as if she'd just run a marathon. "The band of seven… Naraku… they're making plans."
Immediately he was sitting up, his golden eyes sharp with concern. Her head felt foggy and clouded with sleep but she knew she'd have to remember every detail of what was said. Her dreams weren't just dreams, they were gateways, and she'd stumbled back in on Naraku's lair.
"What did you see? We'll have to tell Sesshomaru… this couldn't have come at a worse time."
She knew as well as he did that Sesshomaru's wedding was to be held tonight, and nothing could interfere with that. The DaiYokai had been plain and serious when instructing them. There was no room for a mistake.
Today, he would wed and solidify himself as ruler, and the next day InuYasha would be named a true Lord as he ascended formally into the royal inu line. The title didn't mean anything to Kagome, but she knew how important it was to InuYasha, and Sesshomaru as well.
They didn't have time for visions right now.
"Tell me everything you saw…"
Shortly after she'd told him everything she could remember, InuYasha had run off to speak with Sesshomaru before he was consumed by the duties of the long day that lay ahead. Kagome was left in their bed, a chill racing over her skin. Shaking her head to clear it, she slipped from the futon and padded over to the large wardrobe. She was desperately missing the conveniences of modern clothing when a soft knock came at the door.
"My Lady? Do you require help dressing?"
It was the voice of Tsunade, the girl who was to be her maid. Kagome audibly sighed with relief, clutching the obi at her middle where it sagged loosely from her poor tying.
"Yes, please come in."
The door slid open and she quietly stepped in, her gaze lowered to the floor. She said nothing as she quickly and efficiently got to work. She tucked and pulled until Kagome was completely snug and secure inside of the draping kimono, her figure hugged tightly with the draping silk.
"Would you like me to help with your hair as well, my lady? It is quite long." The girl asked gently, not quite meeting her eyes. Though she was sure it was due to years of living as a servant among the stuck up Inu's, it still bothered her.
She had to remind herself that even though the demure Yokai was timid and seemed so young, she had more than likely been in the service of the palace longer than Kagome had been alive, and she was not a child.
"If you don't mind?" Kagome nodded gratefully. "There are combs over here." She went to the small pile of boxes she had yet to sort through. The kimonos had all been neatly tucked away in the wardrobe, by the kitsune if she had to guess, but the various hair ornaments were still all carefully laid in their boxes. It took her a moment to realize that Tsunade was waiting for her to pick one, and when she did she hastily grabbed the first one that lay on top, passing the box to the girl.
Inside was a crystalline comb with sparkling flowers made of gems dangling off it, the facets of the jewels catching the light. She gestured for Kagome to sit, as she was quite a bit taller than the tiny Yokai, and she carefully lowered herself to the floor, pinched tight by the obi at her waist.
Deftly, she twisted Kagome's hair into a thick half up bun, using the comb as well as a few pins to keep it firmly in place. When she was done, she stepped back, letting her hands fall back to her side.
"Beautiful, my lady." She remarked quietly.
She thanked her, getting back to her feet. Her stomach growled, reminding her that she was still in fact a human and she needed to eat.
"That will be all for now, Tsunade. Thank you."
She felt awkward dismissing her, but she would feel even more awkward having a shadow following her. But Tsunade didn't even blink, she just nodded and silently showed herself out of the room, closing the shoji door softly behind her.
When she was sure she was alone, she let out a small sigh. She hated being fretted over. It was growing tiresome, all of these regulations and long processes. And she knew that the day had only just begun, that there would be much more waiting and watching and being watched, and bowing when she was supposed to. She didn't know how InuYasha was handling all of this so well, or at least it seemed so on the surface. Maybe he was just as restless as she was, he'd been here much longer.
Though, looking around she could see signs of him settling into this new life. His clothes put away in the wardrobe, the mount on the wall for his sword, the portrait of his mother on the mantle. even just the way he held himself now… he was more different than he was the same. The markings he now wore jutting across his tanned skin served as a constant reminder to her of that fact.
But strangely, she found herself unbothered and even more in love with him than she had ever been. She felt so close to him, as if he was an extension of her very being. He understood her without words, without even a look, he knew just where she was at all times and seemed to flow in sync with her. And that connection was worth every ounce of discomfort, even if she was growing annoyed with the strict yokai way of life.
She went to look out the window, hoping to catch a nice breeze to soothe her racing thoughts, when something in the corner of the room suddenly caught a wayward ray of sunlight and flashed. Pausing, she took a closer look.
It was her bright yellow backpack, but something shiny was sticking out of the front pocket.
Walking closer, she reached down to grab whatever it was that had suddenly demanded her attention.
It was the celestial mirror, with everything going on she had completely forgotten about it and it had been sitting discarded in her pack all this time. The scalloped edges of the small compact were cool and soothing to her pale fingers, made even more pallid by the wine color of the kimono she had chosen. The elegant scene of the crane engraved on the front seemed so peaceful and delicate.
She remembered Mamoru saying that it worked best at night, underneath the moon. She slid it into the space between her waist and her obi, the object concealed and tightly tucked away for later, when she had the chance to use it.
"Kagome?"
A soft voice calling her name made her jump.
"Yes, I'm coming."
She said, hurriedly turning and going to open the shoji doors.
It was only Sango. The girl stood there with large, unblinking dark eyes lined with her usual magenta swipe of makeup, dressed in the simple gray kimono that had been given to them , rather than her usual garb. Her pin straight brown hair hung down her back, tied away from her face. It made it easy to read her expression, to see the apprehension that was apparent there. Though it pained her, Kagome could guess as to why she felt that way.
Ever since they had come to this land, it'd felt like a wall had gone up between them. Admittedly, Kagome had been preoccupied these few days they had spent here. There had not been much time outside of InuYasha, even for shippo.
The thought stung, and she felt a pang of guilt along with it.
"I was just coming out for breakfast, you have good timing." Kagome said in an easy tone, hoping to break the ice a little.
Sango visibly softened, a smile turning at the corners of her lips.
"I have to admit, I'm surprised you're alone. I was a little wary to even come into these quarters." She looked around with widened eyes, taking in the simple luxury of the rooms.
"Oh please." Kagome chuckled breezily, brushing off the comment, though she could tell her words were weighted.
"I have been wanting to talk to you though, I feel like I haven't seen much of you at all these last few days." She grabbed the other girl's hand and gave it a warm squeeze. With the simple action Sango seemed to ease a bit, her expression softening.
"I have been wanting to talk with you as well." the Taijiya said lightly. Her eyes seemed to dart around for a moment, as if checking to make sure they were really alone. "I feel… strange here." She dropped her voice to barely above a whisper.
Kagome's brow furrowed with concern.
"I know it must feel kinda odd being here, but it's just because these yokai have their own way of life that humans were never meant to be a part of, sadly. I'm sure we'll get back to the shard hunt soon, don't worry." She did her best to reassure the girl, seeing that she was truly bothered. She gave her hand another light squeeze before pulling away.
Sango nodded sagely, seeming to accept that as an answer, though she could tell she was still uneasy.
"Now, what I really wanna know is what happened between you and Miroku." Kaome wiggled her eyebrows with a grin, watching a blush spread over Sango's cheeks like wildfire.
Her eyes went as wide as dinner plates as she herself tried not to laugh.
"Oh my!" she chuckled, shaking her head. "Let's just say…we're together now."
"I think even if I was blind I could figure that out." Kagome teased. "Now, let's go have some breakfast before everything gets cold."
They linked their arms together and happily made their way into the front room, the air between them much lighter than it had been just a few moments ago.
And Kagome was glad for it. She hated feeling like things were off between them, but now everything was put back right and she felt at least a little of the weight lifted off of her shoulders.
Miroku and Shippo were already tucking into the spread of food when they crossed the threshold. The monk looked up, his indigo eyes instantly settling on the Taijiya, passing over Kagome as if it were only the two of them left in the whole world.
She couldn't help but smile, watching the look that passed between them as she went to sit by his side.
It had been a long time coming, and she was happy that they finally seemed to have gotten to the point where they felt they could be open with their affections. She hadn't ever seen Sango so glowy in all of her time knowing her. Her smile finally reached her eyes.
Kagome went to sit next to the little kitsune, who she happily swept up in a hug as she sat.
"I missed you Kagome! I had a lot of fun yesterday. Do you think I could play with Rin today?" He blinked his big green eyes up at her and she felt warmth pool in her chest, the yokai child pulling at her maternal side. He spoke as if he couldn't get the words out fast enough, his mind working quicker than his mouth would. She didn't have the heart to say no to him of course so she agreed easily with an airy laugh. "I'll ask, Shippo. Maybe before the ceremony."
She pressed a kiss to his forehead before going to pour herself some tea.
If there was one thing she could say about the yokai realm, it was that they had amazing quality tea. Oddly enough, it made her think of her grandfather, and she wondered if she could take some home to him. He would love that, and in that moment the thought sent a pang of hurt through her.
She missed her family.
She had known before she left that she would be gone for a while, but now, with how things were looking… she didn't know when she would ever get back.
She sipped the hot drink, her mind a swirling storm, when suddenly she felt a gentle hand on her shoulder break her reverie.
Snapping out of her thoughts, she looked up into a pair of warm golden eyes that instantly made her worries disappear. She'd been so distracted that she hadn't sensed him getting close, but the feeling of his presence suddenly washed over her like a gentle and soothing wave. He smiled down at her crookedly, her heart squeezing in her chest and her stomach doing a backflip while she could only gaze up at him lovingly.
"How'd it go?"
He lowered himself to the floor with a swish of fine fabric. The light pouring in from the open windows seemed to illuminate him. He was so beautiful. Kagome was convinced she had never seen a more handsome man in her life. The jagged purple marks across his cheeks stood out so uniquely against his tanned skin, highlighted by the river of silver hair that flowed down his back, his bangs falling into his eyes.
"It went… well. As well as it could go." He shrugged, reaching for one of the still steaming buns that were piled on the table. "He was annoyed, but… we're working on a plan." The former Hanyou said around mouthfuls of food.
"What are we talking about?" Sango inquired from across the low table, her tone serious.
Inuyasha's eye's flickered to Kagome, holding a silent question there before he finally spoke, breaking the poignant silence.
"Naraku is strengthening himself, and the Band of Seven are out for the last of the jewel shards… they're headed for Koga and his people."
His words sat heavily on the air.
All of them felt the gravity of what he was saying. If they didn't act… the wolf tribe would be slaughtered. There wasn't a doubt in her mind that up against that unholy band, the wolves stood no chance. Even with all of their best fighters, it wouldn't matter. Bankotsu would pluck the shards from Kogas legs and then splatter the earth with his blood and the clock was ticking, they had to stop it.
She knew that InuYasha of all people didn't care much at all for the wolf demon, or his tribe, but stopping Naraku outweighed any petty disagreements theyd had in the past.
"I saw it in my dream." Kagome felt the need to explain, to fill the heavy silence. "They'll be there in two days' time. Maybe three, if we're lucky."
Miroku nodded somberly from across the table, his indigo eyes shining with a fierce light.
"We won't let that happen. We can stop them, all of us… together."
"Yeah!" Shippo leapt up, his fluffy tail whipping around. "We can do it!"
Kagome smiled lightly, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.
The thought of facing Bankotsu again both terrified and excited her. She wanted this war to be over, and she knew that his death was merely a stepping stone, but she longed for it nonetheless. He deserved to be back in his grave where she didn't have to think of him ever again. But fear still sat with her heavier than any stone.
"We will." InuYasha said from beside her, his tone resolute. He reached over to squeeze her hand beneath the table, as if sensing the tumultuous turn her thoughts had taken. "Sesshomaru will help… all of us working together will be the last thing Naraku is expecting."
He was right about that, that was one thing she knew for certain beyond any doubt. The Band of Seven were intimidating, not to mention whatever other lackeys Naraku had created with his spare parts, but between all of them, the devils stood no chance.
They just needed a plan.
The day had finally come.
Hanako stood, surrounded by a flurry of movement, but for her it seemed as if everything was frozen in place.
The bridal escort, which consisted of her mother, her brother's wife, and a few other of the lower class servants that she had befriended over her many years at the palace, all worked together to carefully dress her, as was the tradition.
It just seemed like everyone was touching her. Adjusting the multiple layers of her junihitoe that had to sit just so, or carefully placing yet another massive ornament into her already over-jeweled hair.
She allowed her mother to carefully paint her face, knowing that Bashira would not let her look anything less than perfect on such a monumental day.
She stood stock still, like a perfect doll, her gaze lost out the open window, the sunset reflected in her lavender eyes. Her mind was elsewhere, heavy with worry and nerves. There was not a doubt in her mind that Sesshomaru was meant to be her mate. She knew that with her whole heart. But that part was already sealed in stone, this display was purely for the court to witness their union so she would be officially recognized as the Lady of the West by all that stepped foot here.
It was a heavy title to place upon such a gentle frame.
She didn't know if she was ready, didn't know if she could lead if it came down to it. But she knew that she loved Sesshomaru, knew that he was waiting for her, and that had to be enough.
"I think that will do it my love, you look absolutely perfect."
Her mother beamed at her, snapping her back into the moment as she held out a mirror for her to take. Although they looked very similar to each other in many ways, the fullness of the lips, and the small, sloping nose, her eyes were a richer, deeper purple, the color of an iris. She'd lined them with kohl to match her daughter. Bashira was elegant in her way, with her dangling gold jewelry and luxurious furs draped over her shoulders, the pure white of the pelt blending with her hair that spilled freely down her that moment she looked so proud, her hands outstretched towards her daughter with pure love and warmth radiating off of her.
She took the mirror finally, a long moment passing as she stared at her own reflection in the polished bronze.
Her white hair had been piled atop her head elegantly, with half of it flowing down her back in loose dreamy curls. Kitsuyo, her brother's wife, had adorned her crown with various flowers and hair ornaments that glimmered with precious jewels; and her mother had accentuated her features with the makeup, lining her eyes with a dark kohl that made her lilac eyes stand out against the pale whiteness of her skin, the base having covered up her freckles. Rouge had been dappled along her cheek bones, a stark contrast that drew the eye upwards towards her striking gaze. Her lips were painted a deep red, the color of sweet wine.
She seemed so different from the young inuyoukai that had come down from the mountains all those years ago to serve as a chambermaid in the palace.
Older, of course. More statuesque and regal, definitely. Her reflection seemed foreign, like a painting, though it was definitely her own eyes staring back at her now. Through the facade she could see her own fear plainly, shining back at her as if to solidify the heavy feeling in her gut.
Gently, seeing Hanako's trembling fingers gripping the hard edge of the mirror, Bashira reached out to take it from her. She placed a light hand on her daughter's cheek, careful not to smudge her makeup.
"You can do this, I promise."
She seemed to know her thoughts, and it took everything Hanako had not to let herself waver to tears. In that moment she felt so small. Layered beneath what felt like tons of fabric that could swallow her up, she suddenly was just that naive village girl all over again. A million thoughts raced through her head.
What if she wasn't beautiful enough? What if the court looked down on her for being low born? What if what if what if.
But Bashira only smiled at her warmly, a knowing look reflected in her violet eyes.
"You know, when I wed your father I was terrified. I'm sure I've told you that story." She chuckled, as if caught in the memory.
Hanako shook her head, brows furrowed.
"The whole thing was arranged by our families, so there was no choice in the matter for me. One day my father brought me to the village, and left me with people I had never met. My mother wept and wept, but that was just how things were. The same thing had been done to her, and her mother before her." She shrugged simply, continuing with a soft smile. "I was lucky enough that your father is a much better man than I could have ever hoped for, and we almost instantly fell in love. But our wedding was the first time we had ever met, in front of his whole tribe, and I had to eat an elk heart!" Bashira sniggered at the last bit and she couldn't help but to giggle along with her. Imagining her mother as a young girl in her own shoes seemed to make her fear ease just a little.
"I was younger than you are now, scared and alone." Her eyes seemed to shimmer with a brief echo of sadness that was quickly whisked away as she reached out to touch her cheek lovingly. "But you chose. I've always wanted that for you. And he cares for you deeply, even a fool could tell that much. Everything else will sort itself out."
With Bashira's blessing sitting on her heart, Hanako could feel the almost physical warmth from it and it was like a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Her mother was content with her choice, she knew that her daughter would be safe with Sesshomaru, and that was enough for Hanako.
Her father had said much the same, though he was a man of few words. He'd hugged her that morning more fiercely than he had since she was just a child, as if he was reluctant to let his pup go. Takamoto was not an emotional Inu by any means. He was quiet, and his ice blue eyes were hard and as cold as iron. He was a mountain of a yokai, standing taller than Sesshomaru easily. He had long white hair he kept tied back into a tight knot at all times, pulled out of his face so he could work more easily. He didn't talk much, but when he did, his voice was boisterous and full of cheer, which surprised many. His laugh was even more contagious than his rare smile, which she'd inherited. But that morning, he had held her for a long moment, whispering that he loved her before finally letting her go. It was a bittersweet moment, one that she hadn't expected or prepared for, and it was hard to keep the tears at bay. There was a warm twinkle in his eyes as he stepped away, leading her brother out of the room with him to leave the females to their rituals. And she knew that when she saw them both again she would no longer be Hanako of the Mountain, but someone else entirely.
"Come now, the ceremony is starting."
Bashira took her arm gently, guiding her towards the door and shattering her thoughts abruptly.
A light music was playing , she could hear the melody floating through the walls and her heart seemed to jump into her throat.
Bashira, Kitsuyo and the other handmaidens fell behind her, ushering her forward as the massive doors were thrown open by the servants that respectfully stood to the side, everyone urging her forward even though in that instant she felt frozen. She had to remind herself as the music swelled and her feet moved on their own accord that she was not a little pup playing dress up, she was a woman now in her own right and she had a destiny to fulfill.
The short hallway lined with lanterns and servants seemed to drag on forever, time moving in slow motion as her heartbeat rang in her ears. She could see the archway ahead, lined with falling flowers and vines that obscured her view beyond that. But she knew what lay on the other side, she'd made sure to familiarize herself with the hall well in advance, her attempt at avoiding a blunder that could be disastrous. But even so now, her own fear thundered in her ears. She swallowed thickly, the music swelled and the flowers parted for her as if by some invisible force.
And suddenly, as she stepped over the threshold with the line of women and Jaken at her back she was thrust into the very center of attention. The meeting hall was massive, with three large and cavernous walls reaching up high above into a slanted ceiling all carved from smooth stone. Where the third wall would normally be, the room was left open to a small private garden, edged right up against the hard exposed rock of the mountain with vines and moss crawling up the side, and an open cliff face with a beautiful view of the valley. And there, a pavilion carved into the base of a wisteria tree in full bloom.
The path was lined with glowing lanterns, the faces sitting and watching were all a blur to her. She could only see Sesshomaru standing there beneath the vibrant purple blooms, almost glowing as his golden eyes locked onto her with a fierceness she could feel pulling at her chest.
He was so handsome, standing there wearing a deep purple ensemble as opposed to his normal white, the flurry of his moko moko thrown over his shoulder with his river of silver hair. Her breath was stolen and she almost felt like she was floating towards him, drawn by some sort of magic, their eyes only breaking contact when she dropped into a deep bow at his feet.
She stayed like that, head bowed, waiting with baited breath until he took her hand, bidding her to rise. They both turned to face the crowd of Yokai that had gathered to watch the joining. The head of every Inu clan was present, as well as all the nobles of the court. All she could hear was the music tinkling on the air, all she could feel was Sesshomaru's hand on her own, squeezing reassuringly. Petals fell around her as Jaken's shrill voice pierced the night air.
"Lady Hanako, of the Mountain!"
In the streets outside the palace, people danced and sung along with the beating of their drums, the lanterns strung from roof to roof slowly firing to life magically as the sun set. There seemed to be a sense of promise in the air, growing with every passing hour. The people of the castle were certainly excited about the new Lady of the West, and the possibilities that came with it. Everyone was addressed in their finest, flooding into the palace with music floating along the breeze.
The night crept in and the sky turned dark, the perfectly halved moon rising.
Kagome didn't know what she had been expecting upon entering a Yokai wedding ceremony. The thought had never crossed her mind before she'd set foot in Sesshomaru's realm. But as she stepped through the absolutely massive wooden doors that seemed to fly open on their own accord, all at once she could feel the breath sucked from her lungs as she looked around in awe.
Holding onto InuYasha's arm, they stepped into a room that was really more of a cavern. The walls were made of smooth, curved stone, and the opposite side of the room where the wall would be was just open to the air, facing what she could see to be a glorious view over the cliff face. The room must have been carved directly into the mountain and then attached to the castle; it felt too old to be made by hand, whether they were immortal or not. Flowers hung everywhere. Pert and plump wisteria blossoms fell like ornaments from the ceiling, along with hundreds of lanterns.
"Come, this way." Inu gently nudged her to the left through the sea of high born Yokai, Harusuke waving them over to a spot close to the edge of the open room. The copper skinned Inu grinned wolfishly, his canines flashing in the glimmering light of the warm lanterns.
The crowd seemed to part around them, the nobles mingling with each other before the ceremony began. All around them there were lavish outfits painted in every shade and pattern that she could imagine. Outlandish headpieces made of jewels dazzled her, and she didn't know where to look. She could only do her best to take it in, committing every detail to memory. It was more splendor than anyone in her lifetime had even come close to achieving, something that was lost to the years to come, it was true magnificence.
"My Lady," Harusuke cleared his throat. Her eyes immediately flickered over to him with a well learned smile as she quickly reigned in her wandering mind. the young InuYokai was looking rather smart in a navy kimono this evening, the color playing off his shining amber eyes. "I would like to introduce you to my father, General Atsunobu."
An Inu stepped over into her view and she could immediately see the resemblance between them. They both shared the same long, arched nose and set to their mouths, and the obvious coloring. Though the general was just a hair taller and much more broad in the shoulders. His charcoal gray ensemble was completed by the traditional armor he wore, and his eyes twinkled with warmth.
"My Lady Kagome,it is an honor. Forgive me, my two oldest sons have been stationed on watch this evening, but I trust my youngest child has been behaving himself in the presence of such a fine Lady, and hasn't sullied our family name too much." He bowed deeply at the waist, and she couldn't help the slight flush that came to her cheeks. She was still unused to being addressed in such a way.
"You flatter me, General." She bowed back, "Your son has been so gracious during my time here, thank you."
He seemed pleased by her answer, opening his mouth to speak just as a mighty drum was suddenly pounded, immediately silencing the room.
Beside her, InuYasha subtly reached down between them to grasp her hand, giving it a squeeze of reassurance.
"The great Lord Sesshomaru enters!"
Came Jakens undeniable shriek, they heavy wooden doors slowly moving to open.
All at once every person in the cavernous room knelt. InuYasha and Kagome moved with them, and as he passed each one of them bowed.
The DaiYokai exuded power. Kagome could feel the tendrils of it swallowing up all the air in the room. Her reiki tingled and sparked beneath her skin In response, but she quickly shoved the feeling away. He wore a deep shade of purple, the color so out of place on him in her mind. She'd only ever seen him in white, but the shade popped against his river of smooth silver hair that went nearly down to his calves, the fur of his moko moko flowing down over his shoulder, lifted by an invisible breeze.
Each step he took was deliberate, and there was a hush over the crowd until he finally stepped up onto the wooden platform at the very edge of the room near the stark cliff face. Looking at his face, you would never be able to tell he was getting married in just mere moments. It was schooled into his usual cold mask, golden eyes sharply looking off into the distance as if he was plagued by some lasting thought.
No one moved.
For some reason her heart was beating rapidly, her body picking up on the nervous energy that had built in the room.
The shamisen player in the corner struck a note, and she could feel it vibrate in her chest.
"The Lady Hanako, of the Mountain!"
Jaken announced as the music built slowly. At that moment every pair of eyes in the room zeroed in on the doorway, including Sesshomaru's. When she finally stepped into view there was an audible gasp that came over the crowd.
Kagome's jaw was practically on the floor, her eyes going wide as she started unabashedly right along with the rest of them.
Hanako was wearing a many layered kimono in different shades of plum, white fur draped elegantly over her shoulders. White candyfloss hair was piled at the top of her head, carefully combed and pinned just so and decorated with so many ornaments and jewels and flowers that Kagome didn't know how the girl was standing, much less walking gracefully to the beat of the Shamisen. Unlike her counterpart who was as cold as ice, her face read all of her emotions plainly. Kagome could almost feel her heart pounding in her chest as if it were her own, her cheeks flushed and lips parted in anticipation. The light of the many lanterns was reflected in her eyes, shining like twinkling stars as her gaze was locked solely on the DaiYokai that was waiting for her at the top of the short platform.
She was gorgeous, Kagome truly was blown away. She looked like a painting come to life, every inch of her perfectly poised and decorated. She glided rather than walked, her movements smooth and demure.
Jaken waddled down the aisle after her, the little creature dressed in his finest attire with gold robes draping off of him, he even had a little hat strapped to his fat, round head.
The music seemed to build the tension as the snowy Inu gracefully ascended to meet her counterpart at the top of the platform. For a long moment as they waited for the imp to waddle up after her, the pair just looked at each other.
Kagome could see something other than cold indifference playing on Sesshomaru's face, something she couldn't quite place. On anyone else she would say that there was a ghost of a smile pulling at his lips, but for the DaiYokai that was a stretch. Hanako looked so completely in love. She beamed up at the much taller demon, her lavender eyes shining.
Kagome knew that look all too well. She squeezed InuYasha's hand fondly, wishing more than anything that she could kiss him now even though she knew it wouldn't be proper. He looked like he wished the same, his golden irises glinting in the low light as he squeezed her back.
Jaken once again slammed his staff down, the shamisen cutting off suddenly.
He stood between the two Inu's looking almost ridiculously small, his large yellow eyes blinking slowly.
"Before the court and the gods, these two shall be joined." His voice rang out loudly over the crowd, not a soul looking away from the union. "Lord Sesshomaru of the West, you are bound to your duty as guardian of the realm, and as such your wife shall be bound by that same duty. Hanako of the Mountain, do you accept this role? Will you defend our lineage until your last breath and pass on our traditions?"
Hanako seemed to take a calming breath before she answered, her voice as fresh as summer rain.
"I will."
Smoothly she dropped down to her knees, gracefully bending into a low bow.
"I give my life to the realm, to my husband."
Kagome watched, enraptured as Jaken presented his master with a beautiful, Pearl white kimono. Sesshomaru didn't hesitate as he placed it carefully over her shoulders like a cloak.
"You will always be under my protection, wife. Rise."
He took her hand and pulled her up to stand beside him as an equal, looking deeply into her eyes. He didn't let go of her hand when Jaken pounded his staff down into the wood three solid times.
"The lord and lady of the West! So it shall be for eons to come!"
At his valiant decree the room erupted into cheers, the onlookers clapping happily for the new couple and Kagome and InuYasha were not exempt from the joy. Hanako was not quite a sister as she had insisted, but she was definitely a friend, and she could sense the Snowy Inu's pure spirit.
If anyone could heal that cold part of Sesshomaru, it would be her. The two of them were strangely perfect for each other, though Kagome never would have thought so at first.
They shone like a couple of idols walking down from the platform together, arm in arm. Hanako had a smile that seemed to come straight from her soul, the light was practically pouring out of her. Her palpable happiness was rubbing off on her mate, because he too wore a small smile. It was so uncharacteristic of him that Kagome was floored. As the two of them passed everyone dropped into a bow out of respect, and Kagome and InuYasha followed suit. She was familiar with the monotony of the old traditions; there was a lot of bowing. She was still getting used to the tightness of the obi pulling at her middle, and the many layers of silk that seemed to be trying to pull her down.
She held onto InuYasha for stability as they rose up again, watching the newlyweds walk slowly out of the cavernous room.
"So what now?" Kagome asked, unsure if there was more ceremony involved.
Her silver haired demon shrugged, "I think we feast."
He looked back towards Harusuke, "feast?"
"Feast!" The copper demon nodded jovially, turning towards the couple with a large smile, his father laughing beside him.
The festivities went on long into the night. They ate and drank and laughed, music being played by a small band in the corner. Hundreds of nobles all wanted to wish their master well, and give the couple their blessings.
By the end of the night Kagome was stumbling back to their quarters with InuYasha arm in arm.
She'd unwittingly had far too much to drink, the sake had been flowing and now she found herself drunk for maybe the second time in her life.
Giggles bubbled up out of her chest as she nearly tripped over the trailing silk of her kimono, almost bringing InuYasha down with her.
He laughed, the sound filling her with warmth. He'd had just as much to drink as her, probably more, though he seemed a lot more steady on his feet than she was.
They made it to his wing of the castle, shushing each other so as to not wake the others. She felt guilty that her friends had had to stay sequestered away here, but it just wasn't safe for them yet. No human had touched these lands in Kami only knew how long, and she doubted that their presence during a sacred ceremony would have gone over well with the court.
Leading her into their room, her Inu wrapped her up into his strong arms and planted a passionate kiss on her waiting mouth. she sighed happily against him, greedily tasting him and drinking up all of his affection. She'd been longing to do that for hours now. Witnessing the wedding had made Kagome think of their own future, and the possibilities it held.
Would they marry too? Would they start a family?
The thought sent a zing of excitement down to her belly. It was all she'd ever wanted with him. Once this Naraku business was finally over with, she would be so pleased to start planning their life together. Images of a little baby InuYasha filled her mind and her heart swelled in her chest, smiling against his mouth.
His large hands roamed over her back, bringing her closer even as he deftly began to work at the ties of the obi with his long, skilled fingers. she breathed in his woodsy scent contentedly, letting him undress her as his mouth wandered down to her neck, planting soft kisses there.
"I love you so much."
She murmured in the near darkness of the room. Moonlight filtered in through the open window, and she could see a smile on his full lips as he pulled away, undoing the ties that held her kimono in place.
"I love you more, my mate."
His words sent a shock of fire straight through her and she could have melted.
She loved when he called her that.
Their mate bond was still so new and fresh it didn't feel real sometimes. But then she would feel his presence at the back of her subconscious, or sense him coming from far away and it would reinforce the fact that they were now eternally one.
She didn't know what the future held for them. She would have to go back to her own time after they handled Naraku, and finish school if she could. And then she imagined that she would come back, and they could settle down together finally. She hoped.
Maybe it was the sake making her so emotional, but for some reason her mind was focused on all the unknowns that surrounded them right now.
But she wanted to just be.
To enjoy this moment with him because it may be fleeting.
So she shook away the troubling thoughts and centered herself, letting herself drift away with the feeling of his hands on her skin, her kimono falling to the floor. Something heavy clattered to the floor with it, but neither of them paid it any mind, they were so wrapped up in each other. The cool air hit her skin, instantly pebbling her nipples even as his rough hands instantly went to stroke them, eliciting a small gasp from her.
"Stop worrying." He murmured, his warm breath ghosted over the shell of her ear and sent a wicked shiver down her spine. He'd gotten behind her, pressing their bodies together, her ass fitting into his hips like it was made to go there.
Sighing, Kagome pressed into him harder, feeling him instantly respond to her. He brushed her long dark hair over her shoulder, exposing her neck and lovingly kissing the pale skin there. Goosebumps erupted down her arms, her stomach tingling with hot want. She loved that he knew her well enough to sense when she was anxious without her ever even saying anything. He was so attentive to her, even more so now that they were mated and she was practically bursting at the seams with happiness.
"Take me to bed, my love." She whispered into the darkness, feeling his breath hitch at her words before he picked her up and tossed her gently onto the futon. The wispy red curtains lifted on the breeze that came in from the open window, the soft light of the moon painting her like a beautiful picture, dappled in light.
Her vision was hazy with sake, but the sight of him at the foot of the bed, his muscled chest heaving as he stripped off his robes and tossed them away was enough to have wetness pooling at the center of her thighs. she was a trembling mess when he looked at her like that, his golden eyes blazing with his open appreciation of her nakedness. He'd seen her this way many, many times, but it didn't matter. He still looked at her with the same blazing heat every time.
His large, tanned hands spread over her thighs, trailing up and down, drawing a gasp out of her at the contact. His touch was always so electric. Ever since the first time they'd been together this way, nothing had changed. They knew each others bodies much better, knew just where to touch and lick, but the feeling stayed the same. She was just as enamored with him as she had been all those many months ago, though admittedly she loved him more now than she ever imagined possible.
He gently spread her legs and quickly settled himself between them, eagerly kissing her while his deft fingers tested her readiness. Kagome whimpered helplessly, squirming as he carefully teased her center. He groaned aloud at the wetness he found there, the sound vibrating against her lips. The tips of his glass-like claws drug over her thighs, trailing up and leaving a path of goosebumps in their wake. She shivered, arching closer into him, silently begging.
He knew what she wanted.
She could see it in the mischievous glint flickering in his blazing golden eyes.
He enjoyed teasing her just a bit too much for her liking.
They dug into her skin gently, an edge to them that had her panting at the sensation.
"InuYasha…" His name fell from her lips, swollen with kisses.
A deep growl loosed itself from his throat and he was suddenly grabbing her and pulling her as close as possible, his thick cock sliding against her wetness. She knew he loved when she said his name. They both gasped at the feeling, Kagome urging her hips forward, wanting so desperately for it to just slide in.
The Inu chuckled roughly at her eagerness, openly watching her grind lewdly against him.
She couldn't think straight. She didn't care how she looked to him at that moment, any embarrassment she had left flew out the window and all she could focus on was the way his body felt against hers. The tip of his length brushed her clit and it had her reeling.
Her cheeks were flushed with a riotous blush and they burned with heat.
"Please." She whimpered, helpless. "I need you."
That was all it took.
At her confession he finally seemed to take some pity on her, leaning down to capture her mouth in a searing kiss as he lined himself up and seated himself inside her all the way to the hilt.
She couldn't help but to cry out at the sudden fullness, the way he stretched her to the brim. He balanced himself on strong arms stacked with muscle on either side of her head, his eyes narrowed and heavy with lust as he clearly tried to maintain control, trying to stop himself from rutting into her harshly and without abandon.
He wanted to make love to her tenderly, slowly, Into the early hours of the morning. He wanted to take his time, to really appreciate his mate.
Today had been long, with many hours spent under the watchful eyes of the court and she had done so well.
With her on his arm he'd felt like the luckiest man alive, and he'd caught more than one Inu male eyeing her down like she was a piece of meat. He had wanted to tear their heads from their shoulders, but another part of him, the distinctly male part, felt proud. This gorgeous creature was his and his alone, never to be touched by another man, and that excited him.
"I love you,"
She moaned breathlessly into his mouth as he kissed her ruthlessly, their bodies settling into a wicked and familiar rhythm.
"I love you too… so much." He groaned, feeling her tight walls squeeze him in even deeper. It was like her body was made for him. Every curve, dip and valley she had melding against him effortlessly. They had so many things to worry about. Naraku, the band of seven, koga and his tribe, but just then, in that moment, nothing could reach them.
They were wrapped in a bubble of passion that neither claw or sword could penetrate. It was just them, and all they had was each other.
Kagome clung to InuYasha, crying out, her teeth scraping his shoulder and he nearly lost it at the feeling of her blunt teeth there.
He was so deep. He could feel himself reaching all the way to the back of her, his body unconsciously trying to get as close as possible, bringing them together completely as one. His urges were so primal when it came to her.
Now that he was a full demon he felt much more in control, but when Kagome was involved… all that seemed to disappear. She spoke to the most animalistic part of him, the deepest and darkest reaches of his soul brought to light with their new mate bond.
They rocked against each other, Kagome thrusting up against him in a way that made something deep within him tighten, driving him to his release.
She was close, he could tell by the way she whimpered so prettily, her fingers digging into the skin of his back hard enough to leave marks.
He peppered her neck with kisses, lavishing his tongue along the spot where he had claimed her only a few days ago. She shuddered, hips bucking. Remembering how he had taken her only served to ignite the fire in his blood even more. His teeth longed to sink into the tender flesh there, to taste her sweet blood again. Her essence was pure ambrosia to him, taken from the fountains of the gods and he could get drunk on just the memory alone.
"My girl," he growled possessively, suddenly driving down into her forcefully, urging a cry out of her as she tried desperately to hold on. All semblance of going slow and tender went out the window as he held the small girl as close as he could, feeling his release tightening in his belly. "My Kagome…"
His. Wholly and truly.
The feeling was still new and bright and felt so fucking good as their hips met in a more frantic rhythm, each of them nearing that great precipice of pleasure that threatened to swallow them both whole.
The energy in the air turned electric, his Yokai and her Reiki merging together to create a powerful aura around them, charged by their love making.
Her legs tightened around his waist, pulling him in even deeper and she gasped at the new sensation, moaning his name again and again until she was little more than a puddle of nerves lit up there on the futon.
She loved when he spoke like that. His words filled her with an aching, pulsing need that yearned to be sated. His cock filled her up so good. she could feel him stretching her, filling her and hitting that one spot that drove her crazy with every stroke.
"Just like that baby… please.." she moaned desperately, their foreheads pressing against each other. Her eyes flashed open to see him staring down at her, his golden eyes alight with some kind of lustful fire.
She almost jumped out of her skin when she felt his hand slither between them, down to where they were joined to delicately rub circles on her clit, careful of his claws.
Her legs started to shake. She threw her head back, arching up into him and she knew she wouldn't be able to take such torment for very long. Her body was reeling towards a vicious orgasm at light speed, and it was all she could do just to fist her hands into the blankets and hold on.
He knew just how to work her. Just how to send her straight over the edge, intimately familiar with every sweet spot on her body.
It seemed like only a minute or two of his assault had passed when she was cumming harder than she ever had in her life, her pussy spasming around him. Stars flashed as she screwed her eyes shut, her mouth open in a silent scream as every cell in her body seemed to vibrate all at once.
He stayed buried deep inside of her, watching her come undone around him with an open satisfaction that he didn't bother trying to hide.
The feeling of her cumming almost sent him over the edge too, but he grit his teeth and let her ride it out, her hips still bucking. He wanted to do more with her tonight.
He slid a large hand behind her head, fingers twisting in her dark locks as he brought her mouth up to his for a kiss. His tongue immediately sought out her own and they stayed like that for a long moment, kissing deeply.
"Flip over." He said huskily against her lips, her eyes going wide for a second before she nodded mutely, hair spread out wildly around her.
He pulled out of her, groaning at the loss and sat back on his knees, eyes never leaving her.
She moved on shaky legs, Turning to do as he said but he stopped her, her big brown eyes shining with confusion. She was on her knees, and after a long searing heartbeat where he searched her face for any sign that she wanted to stop. When he found none, a slow smirk spread across his full lips, something wicked flickering in his eyes.
"Come here." He purred, and she didn't try to stop him when he gently pushed her down so that she was face to face with his straining length.
She looked up at him nervously through her heavy lashes, knowing enough to know what he wanted her to do. A deep blush spread over her skin and she felt so flushed. Never in her life had she done such a thing… though she had heard girls talking about it before at school. She wasn't naive, but at the same time she found herself apprehensive now that his cock was staring her straight in the face, long and thick and covered in her own juices. Admittedly there was a part of her that grew even hotter at the sight, a zing of sharp arousal that went straight down to her core. But she was intimidated, unsure of how to continue.
"Taste me, Kagome." InuYasha swept her long hair up in his fist to keep it away from her face, and she gulped as she slowly leaned forward, balancing on her hands. She couldn't refuse him, not when he was asking her in a way that made her so weak, his want for her so urgent.
She took him tentatively into her mouth, her lips wrapping around his shaft as she instinctively began to suck and lick on the tip.
He sucked in a sharp breath, groaning and arching up into her. He cursed and she couldn't help but take some satisfaction in the way he reacted to her movements. She loved making him feel good, loved how he seemed to feel just as strongly as she did.
Waves of pleasure threatened to capsize him as she messily worked his cock. He'd wanted her to taste herself, to taste just how sweet she was but he honestly hadn't expected her mouth to feel so good. it was sloppy, wet, and warm, it felt too good. His control slipped, the untrained beast of his yokai roaring within him. He bucked his hips, sliding herself deeper into her mouth and he felt her jerk a little in surprise, but she held herself there, taking him obediently.
The demon within him purred silently, watching her sweet innocent face as she lapped at him. He wouldn't last long if she kept going like this, he was already so close.
"Alright, now flip over." he ground out roughly, grabbing her and spinning her around.
He was inside of her before she could even react. They both gasped at the sensation, and he sunk his whole cock inside of her with his claws pricking at her hips.
"InuYasha," she moaned, bouncing her ass against him as she sought out her own pleasure. Her inky black hair slipped over her shoulder, and he could see his mark imprinted on the back of her neck, standing out a light pink on her pale skin. The sight drove him wild, knowing that she was his. No one else's. Ever.
He fucked her harder, driving down into her and making her cry out wildly as his release coiled low within his belly. He only lasted a few more strokes before he finally let go, filling her up with his seed. Instinctively he sunk into her as deep as possible, holding her there and making sure she took every drop.
She came around him again, her legs shaking; he felt her pussy clench and pulse and if he knew that she wasn't already so spent, he would've happily kept fucking her until the sun broke over the mountains. But she was still mostly human, as as he finally pulled out of her he could tell how tired she was by the way she sunk into the futon, breathing heavily.
Instantly he was beside her, throwing a thin blanket over the two of them before pulling her into his chest. She cuddled back into him, her body fitting perfectly against his. He pulled her in for a sweet, languid kiss before they settled deeper into the bed.
"I love you," she whispered tiredly, her eyes only half open.
"I love you more, my Kagome."