An Unexpected Love: How It All Began

 

THIS IS A FLASHBACK CHAPTER.

 

~ . o . O . o . ~

 

An Unexpected Love

Chapter Ten : How It All Began

~ . o . O . o . ~

The twigs and leaves whipped against her legs and forearms as she ran, dodging the larger trees while trying to keep low and out of sight.  The little girl by her side was kept close; she didn't want her hurt.  The sounds of swords clashing still rang within her ears as another explosion rattled the ground.  A soft laugh caught her attention as she paused, stilling Rin and her breath as the bark scratched the skin on her exposed back. 

 

Fear filled Kagome.  She knew that Inuyasha and the others were too far away and still fighting; and though Sesshoumaru's whereabouts were still in question, Kagome could not depend on him either.  He had left earlier that morning without a word to anyone.  All she and Rin had was herself.  So Kagome ran. 

 

Picking up the girl, she moved deeper into the forest, away from the threat, as the sounds of battle faded.  A steep slope forced the woman to stop dead in  her tracks.  'Shit.'  She had to find a good hiding spot and quickly.  Kagome had thought back to the conflict earlier that month; she couldn't get caught again.  Naraku had become more persistent lately.  In their last encounter, Rin had almost died.  It was Inuyasha who had come to their rescue; and he had rubbed it in. 

 

They carefully but quickly made their way down as she shook those disturbing thoughts away, her eyes darting around nervously.  A bone-chilling cackle echoed in the air causing the female to freeze.  She cradled the child in her arms as she turned and continued on.  Kagome didn't bother to look behind her; she was too fearful of who she might find.

Suddenly, something moved to her right and, before she could react, the duo ran straight into Naraku's arms.  Kagome quickly tried to move back but his hand shot out to keep her in place.  "We have much to discuss," he laughed, his gaze resting on Rin before moving back to Kagome's face.  "And it seems that you can not argue." 

His words sent chills down her back.  She couldn't imagine what he would, could do.  She nodded slowly, "Very well, but I will only help you if you let Rin go."

"She is free, put her down and-"

 

Naraku was cut off as Sesshoumaru's sword slid through the hollow body, turning the clone into a fine dust.

"Sesshoumaru!" Kagome's voice was filled with relief.

The demon swiftly approached the female.  "Were you simply going to let him take you?"

 

 

His question threw her off.  "It was all the leverage I had to get Rin out of danger and free from Naraku."  It was the truth and she had promised to protect her. 

His hand brushed against her face.  "Do not think that the only one who could hold affection for you is Inuyasha."  His words were soft as he gently took the girl from Kagome's arms.

Their eyes held for a few seconds before Inuyasha came busting through the underbrush, finding the two in a much closer proximity than he liked.  "What's going on?" he questioned as he pulled Kagome from his side.

 

"You should be the one thanking me this time, little brother."

 

 

Inuyasha knew what Sesshoumaru meant; he instantly turned to gaze at Kagome.  His eyes scanned her briefly for any injuries. 

She blushed, "Inuyasha, it wasn't that serious."

 

"Thank you, Sesshoumaru.  I am grateful."  He spoke through gritted teeth as he stared off into the surrounding forest.  "I am grateful," he repeated as he suddenly grabbed Kagome's arm, pulling the woman off behind him.

 

Sesshoumaru's face slipped into a slight smile.  The demon had not wanted Inuyasha to gloat anymore, and he did not want to be indebted to the hanyou.  The look on Inuyasha's face was too much for him to relish and Sesshoumaru preferred to have the situation in his favor.  He would wait for them to return to camp before he spoke with Kagome privately.

Dusk was soon approaching and Sesshoumaru began to wonder where the couple had gone off to.  The demon grew impatient as he stood when breaking sticks echoed around them.  Everyone looked up at the lord before Inuyasha's form came crashing through the brush.  Anger was still etched on his features as the two brothers locked eyes.

"Where is Kagome?" Sesshoumaru demanded.

Inuyasha's face hardened at his question.  He growled, "What business is it of yours?"  The demon merely stared at him, waiting for an answer.  "She returned home for the night.  She'll be back tomorrow."

Satisfied with the hanyou's answer, Sesshoumaru turned his attention back to the campfire.  Kikyou's village was less than fifty yards away.  He had seen the community but the thought of visiting the unusual girl's home was now appealing to the lord; it seemed he had a purpose. 

Sesshoumaru woke early the next morning, intent on finding the miko's home before the sun lit the sky.  He exited the camp, slipping past the hanyou with ease.  Once free from the confines of the perimeter, the inu demon lightly sniffed the air, picking up the faintest traces of the girl.  Inuyasha had tried to cover her scent, but his attempts could not fool a full demon's sense of smell.  The trail led him outside the village and, as he entered the clearing, Sesshoumaru could see Kagome struggling with her yellow bag near the solitary well and mumbling harsh words about the hanyou.  He had already been introduced to her 'sits' and the lord had to hide his grin at her choice of words; the woman was feisty.

He was quiet as he approached the female, only speaking when he was behind her.  "Do you need assistance with that?"  His voice was soft as his hands appeared on either side of Kagome, lifting the bag over the ledge to rest at their feet.

She quickly turned, finding herself face to face with Sesshoumaru.  His silk kimono rubbed against her legs as she tried to back away, only to have the rough bark of the well stop her.  Swiftly the lord reached out to steady the woman, lest she fell into the damp hole.  Kagome instinctively placed her hands on his chest before violently blushing.  "Sesshoumaru, what are you doing here?  Where is Inuyasha?"

Their eyes met and Sesshoumaru saw her distress.  He ignored the question as he spoke, "Why are your eyes red?"

"I-I didn't sleep very well," she mumbled, trying to shrug the feel and warmth of his touch.

He growled lightly and tightened his grip.  "You are lying.  What did Inuyasha do to you?"  His voice was hard and demanding.  Sesshoumaru could not understand what had happened between the two.  Had Inuyasha threatened her?  Vented his anger towards her because of yesterday's events?  It was not Kagome's fault that the hanyou was inadequate. 

Tears filled her eyes as she tried to speak with a clear voice.  "Sesshoumaru, please," she began; Kagome's attempt to move away from the demon failed as he abruptly stopped her. 

 

Sesshoumaru held her face, inspecting her features closer.  She did not smell like she had been violated although the hanyou's stench was all over her.  However, it was clear that something had transpired; her eyes were obviously swollen and her demeanor was unusually low.  "You will answer my question."

"He did nothing."  Her meek words hung in the small space between them.

He could smell her fear.  Why did she let Inuyasha steamroll her like this?  What was Inuyasha holding over her head?  What was it that Sesshoumaru didn't know?  "Why do you continue to lie to me?"  The youkai could not understand why the woman was still defending his brother after such harsh and unreasonable treatment.  He was frustrated and slightly confused.  "Are you willing to leave with whoever is intimidating you?  First Naraku and then Inuyasha; if that is how you respond to power, I should like to see what happens after."

"No, it's not like that," Kagome stuttered.

"Then how is it?" he inquired.

She was silent for a moment.  "We are just friends, " she spoke slowly, repeating the same words she had heard from Inuyasha yesterday. 

Sesshoumaru let her go and Kagome wobbled on her feet for a second.  "I see, then he has not laid a claim on you."

Kagome looked up, confused, "Claim?"

Inuyasha had been implying that Kagome would, eventually, be mated to him; yet he was telling her they were 'friends'.  Sesshoumaru understood this human concept.  "Come, I shall escort you back to the camp."

"Oh, okay," she replied as they began the journey back.  He had picked up her bag and began walking slightly in front of her, leading the way.  Kagome wanted to ask Sesshoumaru so many questions but she was not sure where to start.  'Did he see me as I came out of the well?  What was he doing here?'

The two emerged from the brush, grabbing everyone's attention.  Kagome kept her eyes glued to the ground, afraid to meet Inuyasha's gaze.  Sesshoumaru's voice was commanding as he spoke.  He no longer cared about the rights and wrongs that Inuyasha felt, but instead all he could see was the wrongs that the innocent girl, so attached to Inuyasha, had endured.  It was savage and something he could not stand to see. 

He supposed it was the same part of his cold heart that stirred when Rin had smiled at him, not afraid but merely accepting and nourishing him, in her own way of course.  That is what prompted the demon lord to speak on Kagome's behalf.  For her well-being, her sanity, and any shred of her heart she would have left.

The brothers locked eyes.  There was a long silence before Sesshoumaru spoke, dropping the woman's luggage at their feet.  "Inuyasha, you should stop living in the past and look into the future before it slips out of your grasp."

"What the hell are you talking about?  Mind your own damn business and stay away from Kagome," he spoke.  The hanyou tried to get the girl away from his brother, only to have the demon move to block the advance, surprising everyone.

"Heed my warning, because it will only come once."  Kagome tugged at his sleeve, tentatively trying to get his attention.  The lord put his hands on her to calm the fury he had stirred.  "If you can not succeed in such a simple task, then I shall be forced to relieve you of it."

"What the hell?  Why are you so interested in Kagome now?" Inuyasha demanded as he glared at his brother.  He knew there was something up.

"She is the keeper of the jewel correct?  Therein lies my concerns.  Your reckless actions could lead to Kagome's demise.  You think not of the goal but of your immediate actions."

"Stupid, I know what I'm doing," he retorted.

Sango, Miroku, and Shippou could all only watch in confusion as the day continued on.  Inuyasha had been pissed off that he had received such a lecture from Sesshoumaru.  In fact, he completely refused to move from Kagome's side, even when she insisted that she needed to only use the bathroom.  With Sango's help, Kagome managed to come to an agreement with the hanyou.  Sango would have to watch over her when he couldn't.  It was a little extreme, but Kagome felt that Inuyasha was more compelled to not make the demon mad than anything else.  It hurt her, deep in her heart to know that, even though it was for her well-being, it was Sesshoumaru who was more concerned than Inuyasha.

The lord had departed with Jaken shortly after noon, stating that he had urgent business to attend to and that he would return the day after tomorrow.  Rin and Ah-Un were left with Kagome.  The group watched him disappear into the horizon.

 

~ . o . O . o . ~

The letter had clearly stated it.  This was the book he had been searching so long for.  The old worn leather cover was weathered but kept its guard over the papyrus through the ages.  Sesshoumaru slide a hand over the smooth surface, before his fingers untied bindings, revealing hidden secrets.

The lord sat for over three hours pouring his time into the binded paper, looking for an answer as he flipped each page.  It had been obvious in the last months of traveling with Inuyasha's pack that Naraku had repeatedly targeted Kagome.  At first, he believed it was with the intent to kill, but then Sesshoumaru realized that the demon was testing the girl's strength, her limitations, and ultimately her will.  There was a difference in the attacks aimed at him and Inuyasha than the ones focused on Kagome.  There had to be a connection, a reason Naraku was continually after the miko.  'Had it been because of her prior earthly form?  Did Kikyou pose such a threat from the underworld that her reincarnation had to be destroyed?'

It seemed logical.  Kikyou's association with the jewel was the driving force behind Kagome's attachment to the Shikon.  Sesshoumaru had discovered this much from the conversations between the group recently.  When the stone was the topic of choice, Kagome and Kikyou's name always surfaced together.

Then, suddenly he found it; the answer he had been looking for.  It had taken over a year but the burning question he had finally had an answer.  And it wasn't good.

It also seemed that, although Naraku possessed the jewel, it had a will of its own, and ultimately refused to obey any command he gave.  The only other option open to the hanyou turned demon was Kagome.  If he could attain her, then he could certainly control her.  There were several ways and one such as he could be creative.

There was also a section mentioning a bond that one would have to invoke with the priestess in order to tap into the full powers.  His continued reading lead to the final answer.  "Complete possession."  He read the words aloud.  Naraku would engulf the girl, swallow her up.  Darkness would consume her heart and soul, and in turn, she would be a walking shell of the woman she was.  Just like Kikyou.

Sesshoumaru closed the book with a thump.  It bothered him.  It bothered him that Kagome was always in Kikyou's shadow, always picking up the pieces she had left scattered about.  First Inuyasha, now the Shikon no Tama.  Was Kagome truly destined to walk in that woman's footsteps until her very death?

She was an enigma to him and always seemed to be doubting herself.  But the fact that she had grown close to Rin in the past five months had not escaped the lord.  In fact, Kagome had even developed an unusual bond with him.  Like Rin, she refused to tip-toe around him and her personality still resided.  She held her respect but it was a different kind than the one he normally commanded.

Sesshoumaru sighed.  There was no getting around it.  He would have to intervene for Kagome's sake.  If she was to fall to Naraku then the battle would surly end with their loss and their deaths.

The demon stood and exited the private study.  He would have to send word to several allies and then put in place the suggested strategy.  Sesshoumaru mentally reviewed the list, recalling the words on paper.

~ . o . O . o . ~

It had been almost a week since Sesshoumaru had departed, leaving Rin and Ah-Un in Kagome's care.  The group had traveled farther south-east, still tracking Naraku's scent relentlessly.  Sesshoumaru's words weighted heavy on Kagome.  She thought about what he said.  'Claim.'  Though, Kagome could not exactly know what the lord had meant, it didn't leave much assumption other than what it initially implied.

She sighed, the rolling thunderclouds caused them to camp earlier when they happened upon a large enough cave.  If he had any, Inuyasha kept his complaints to himself as Kagome set up the temporary stove, readying the evening meal for everyone.  When she was ready to gather water, Inuyasha insisted he follow, so the two left, each carrying a water jug. 

When they returned, Inuyasha seemed to be in a better mood, but it was hard to tell sometimes.  He carried a string of fish, remarking on his quick hunting skills.  The group huddled around a nice campfire, keeping warm as their food slowly cooked.  A few hours after dusk, the rain began, drizzling down.

Continuous thunder prompted Rin & Shippou to sit in Kagome's lap, both under a large blanket found in Ah-Un's saddled bag.  Suddenly, Inuyasha jumped up, running out into the steady onslaught of water to disappear into the dark night. 

Kagome wanted to follow but kept her seat as the small demon and girl's weight helped to plant her.  Sango glanced her way and they caught eyes.  "I have not felt anything."  Kagome spoke.

"Me neither.  Miroku?"

He shook his head, "No, but the rain can become a mask.  Inuyasha's senses are much better than ours."

A sudden noise caused Sango to move to Kagome's side.  They looked to Miroku as he slowly walked around the fire and closer to the entrance, listening.  The houshi could not sense nor see a thing in the piercing dark.  A sudden swing caught him off-guard and sent him flying against the cavern wall.  Sango moved to Hiraikotsu but was too late as Kagome's sudden scream caused her to turn.  It was another one of Naraku's attachments that had the miko by the neck and pinned against the rocky surface.  Rin and Shippou were below her dangling feet as the monster continued to slowly squeeze the life out of her. 

The taijiya quickly grabbed the large bone and hurled the weapon toward the creature.  With a swing, he deflected it.  In his defense, he had dropped the woman to the floor.  Rin rushed to her, trying to shake her awake.  Shippou sat by her head, gently nudging her with his body.  The boomerang disappeared through the mouth of their shelter.  Sango could hear the faint sound of trees falling, but her eyes were on the target in front of her.  She was defenseless and open to any attack.  Instead, the creature turned to picked the girl up again.

Inuyasha's sudden growl caught both by surprise and was a blur as his claws ripped into the unsuspecting target.  The  demon jumped back, swinging a large hooked 'hand'.

Kagome stirred, seeing Rin and Shippou over her caused her to rise.  She caught of glimpse of the two fighting in their now-much-smaller den.  The miko darted up, covering the children with her body as she looked around for a bow and arrow.

Inuyasha was wildly lashing out, leaving himself open as the nameless beast caught the small gap and threw him against the opposing rock.

"Inuyasha," Kagome screamed, catching the demon's attention. 

She stepped a few feet closer, almost not catching the lowering scythe that swung her direction.  She turned and tried to dodge the calculated strike, stumbling as the weapon grazed her side.  The woman fell to the ground, blood pouring from the open wound.  She cried in pain as her hands went to cover the sore.  Blue eyes glanced upward, widening as she saw the sharp claw descending toward her. 

Inuyasha was a blur as he collided with the figure.  Violently ripping the demon apart, the two tumbled out into the dark.  Savage sounds filled the night sky, mixing with the pouring rain for several minutes. 

Sango had checked on Miroku, noting the bump and lack of an open wound, before moving to Kagome's side.  The flesh looked as if it were already starting to become infected, and the taijiya feared that poison may have also been used.  She ripped apart extra cloth fetched by Rin as Shippou readied hot water to sterilize the gash. 

Inuyasha emerged from the darkness beyond the firelight as Sango mixed a herbal treatment into the water, then began dipping the strips of cloth.  Her eyes only landed on the hanyou for a second before concentrating on her task.

Inuyasha was wide-eyed and obviously still in shock as he stared at the bleeding miko.  Not ready to share why he had run off, the hanyou moved to the fallen houshi's side, checking on his unconscious friend.  Though the rain had washed most of the blood away, he could still smell the miasmatic stench of Naraku soaked into his haori.

Kagome's sudden scream brought his eyes into focus on the huddled figures.  Sango sat towering over the woman as Rin repeatedly wiped her forehead.  Shippou continually pulled cloth from the pot, handing it off to the taijiya, as he replaced it with new ones.  Kagome's shirt had been pulled up, exposing the scar and her smooth stomach.  The blood was stark red against the color of her skin.  The woman cried louder as Sango wrapped the cloth tighter around her abdomen, the pulpy green medicine oozing out of the sides.

The night was relatively still with the exception of Kagome's restless form jerking in her sleep.  After Miroku woke, he mixed a liquid that would ensure her some relief and slumber, and ease any pain that was ailing her.  The group remained camped for several days as Inuyasha was insistent that Kagome was healed before they continue.

By the dawning of the sixth day, Kagome was well enough to venture outside of the cavern walls.  In desperate need of a bath, the miko slipped out while the hanyou had left for the morning hunt.  The woman had been couped up all week and needed some fresh air and space.  The river was only twenty or so paces from their site, and anyone would hear her cries if she were in danger.

Kagome arrived at the bank, quickly choosing a bush and rock as her cover as she undressed and set the folded garments where they would be safe from the water.  She descended into the cool liquid without a second thought at her sharp intake of breath.  The flowing spring slowly cleansed her skin as it slipped past her.

The miko was oblivious to the watching eyes as she scrubbed her skin, trying to free the dirt that had caked on in the past days.  The attack played over and over in her mind, and Kagome found herself unable to think, to move, past what it had meant to her.  After all, it was the first time that she felt her true vulnerability.  Inuyasha was her protector and she was now comprehending how little power she actually had.

After finishing her cleansing routine, Kagome walked to the pebbled shore.  She slowly dried herself off, enjoying the warmth of the morning sun as she pondered what Sesshoumaru had spoke of.  Claim.  Keeper of the jewel.  It had been true that the demon prince would have naturally known of Kikyou's affiliation with the Shikon, but to hear his assumptions about her own connection with the jewel.  Well, it was a little surprising.  And coupled with his alarming and blunt statement, it made one stop and wonder what the demon was thinking.  Why would he defend Kagome?  Why would Sesshoumaru say that to Inuyasha?

She dressed, still lost in her thoughts even as Sesshoumaru stepped from the dense forest.  Kagome had not seen him until he was upon her.  Stunned, the miko stared wide-eyed at the towering figure, unsure of what she was suppose to do.  His words were still spinning in her mind as she clearly recognized the foreign emotion that flickered across his eyes.  Guilt, sorrow, and pain.

He slowly lowered his head, startling the woman when his fingers snaked under her shirt to caress her side.  "What is this?" he gently commanded as his eyes bore into hers.

Kagome swallowed, knowing that she would not be able to lie to him, not when he was touching her like he was.  She tried to find the words, her mouth moving but her voice was silent. 

"Does it still hurt?"  She shook her head.  Sango had sewed the gash better than Miroku and after the bandages had been removed, the scar was barely visible.

"Where were you, Sesshoumaru?"

His eyebrow raised.  "Answer my question first."

Her eyes lowered a moment before she spoke.  "We camped before a thunderstorm last week.  Inuyasha ran off into the forest before we were attacked.  It was another one of Naraku's detachments, but it was one we had not seen before."  She squinted her eyes as if she was recalling it.  "It looked a lot like Kageromaru only bigger.  Anyways, I got cut trying to dodge it in the cave."

He nodded again.  So the rumors that he had heard were true.  Then it was all the more reason for him to take control of the situation before it spiraled out of hand.  Still, he had to keep his temper in check.  Even though he had warned the hanyou of Kikyou's 'meetings' with Naraku, and the possible attempt on Kagome's life, Inuyasha still abandoned her.  And worse, Naraku had waited until he was away.  Kagome's innocent blue eyes stared at him.  She did not know any of the complex things he had learned within the past two weeks.

"Kagome, I must speak with you in a private place.  We need to discuss some very important matters that have come to my attention as of late."  He pulled her closer to his side, not letting the woman reach for her shoes as she stumbled, bare-foot into him. 

Her damp hair still clung to her forehead and was soaking into the white fabric of her top, unveiling the straps of her underwear.  Her green sailor-style collar was not tied and the red ribbon hung lose, revealing the edge of her lace bra and a nice view of the swell of her breasts.

Sesshoumaru's eyes stilled and Kagome held her breath.  She thought that he would kiss her again, but the sound of stomping brought her eyes to see Inuyasha's emerging form, followed by the rest of their entourage, as they came through the brush.  Sesshoumaru did not release his hold on the miko until Inuyasha met his cold stare.

"What the fuck are you doing to Kagome?"  He rushed to pull her from his brother's arms.  The demon did not hold her in fear of hurting the female, but he kept his smirk hidden when Kagome tugged free of the hanyou's fingers.

"He's not doing anything, Inuyasha.  I just stumbled."

Kagome's voice brought the hanyou's eyes to her face.  "Was he coming onto you?"  Inuyasha asked the miko as she tried to not blush.

"Inuyasha, you are the one that could not save her."  Sesshoumaru spoke, not caring if his words sounded harsh to their ears, it was the truth.

"What are you talking about?  She's alive ain't she," he fumed as he stared his brother down.

The demon moved the girl closer, turning her so that she was facing his body and not Inuyasha.  Sesshoumaru lifted her shirt, exposing the healing scar on her right side.  "I said not a scratch.  From now on, I shall watch over the miko."

"Watch over?  What the hell do you mean?  I'm not leaving you with her!  I'm not letting you near her!"

"You don't have a choice."  The demon turned, taking the miko in his arms and away from Inuyasha's reach.  "You have proven yourself inadequate."  Sesshoumaru paused before moving on.

Kagome was stunned speechless, as was Jaken, Sango and Miroku.  Rin clamped her hands as she followed her Nee-chan, exclaiming that she was now part of their family.  The kappa demon stared at Inuyasha for a brief second before waddling after his master.  The taijiya and houshi exchanged looks before their eyes rested on the hanyou.

"I believe Lord Sesshoumaru may be serious about this after all."  Miroku's voice was low but still caught Inuyasha's ears.

"What do you mean by that?"

"It seems you may have waited too late, Inuyasha," Sango replied.

~ . o . O . o . ~

Kagome could do nothing as Sesshoumaru dragged her away from the village, and Inuyasha.  At first, she had thought that the demon had not been aware of their petty problems, then Kagome believed it to be concern for his brother's well-being; but the miko had been wrong on both accounts.  Sesshoumaru had not shown interest in Inuyasha, he had shown interest in her.  They suddenly stopped and the demon broke her jumbled thoughts when he spoke.

"Jaken, take Rin to the castle, we will be following you shortly."  The smaller demon nodded and took the reins as Rin climbed on Ah-Un.

The couple watched them go before the demon spoke again.  "Did you not believe the words I spoke earlier?" he turned and caressed her face, continuing to speak, not waiting for an answer.  "Why do you repeatedly risk your life for Rin?  What is it that you wish to gain?"

"Gain?  I want nothing in return."

"Then answer me; why do you risk your life to protect Rin?"

"It is my duty to risk my life to protect her, she is only a child.  And besides, you are risking yours to protect everyone from Naraku, even if you do not see it that way.  I see nothing wrong with it."  She continued, mumbling the last part.  "It is obvious to me that the little girl means something to you.  I would not wish you, or her, any pain."

"This one does not protect anything but what belongs to me."

She smiled and shook her.  "It does not matter what your intentions were but what your actions result in.  I owe you more than I can repay, and if I am able to watch Rin and guard her safely while you are gone, then I would gladly lift that burden from you so that you may fight without worry."

"You are saying that you were willing to die for this Sesshoumaru?"

She nodded, "Well, I guess you could put it that way."  Kagome looked down at her clasped hands.  "Both Inuyasha and I are grateful-"

Sesshoumaru cut her words off as his lips came crashing down upon hers.  He broke the kiss to whisper in her ear.  "I was not lying when I said that I had affection for you.  You would be welcomed at my castle and have Rin's company as well as mine."

Kagome could not find any words to respond; her eyes portrayed her dismay at his request.  She still had her home in the future; friends and school.  There were so many things she had wanted to do with her life.  And she couldn't let Sesshoumaru know about the well.

He could sense her hesitation.  "Is your feelings toward Inuyasha causing your reluctance?"  She glanced away, trying to hide the emotions she plainly wore.  "Are you not tired of living in Kikyou's shadow?"

Kagome took a deep breath.  It was true; Inuyasha saw Kikyou every time he looked into Kagome's face.  "I can't deny that I have feelings for him, but I don't think that he would hurt me in any way.  At least not on purpose."

"It seems that is the case.  Inuyasha can not love you because he is not free to love.  I have known of his involvement with the undead one for some time now; but the question is, how much do you know?"

"What do you mean?" Kagome choked out.  His unexpected words baffled her.

"Inuyasha is bound by his honor as a member of the Inu House to uphold his vow to that dead miko.  The only chance for his freedom is his death or her releasing him."  He paused, gathering his next words.  It was not his wish to hurt her but she had to be told the truth.  "Before I left, I spoke with Inuyasha, warning him of a possible attempt on your life.  I had uncovered some disturbing information; Kikyou had seemingly made a deal with Naraku.  She would lure the hanyou away and he would take you.  In the end, both would be happy."

Kagome was stunned, unable to speak as she let his words sink in.  If Sesshoumaru had told Inuyasha what he had just told her, then why had he run off?  Did he think he could talk Kikyou out of it?

"Your loyalty is commendable and I admire that about you, but it is wasted on Inuyasha.  He is being more cruel to you than Naraku by letting you believe that you two have a future."  He took her hand as the other moved around to her lower back.  "I can promise you and your kit safety and a comfortable life.  I will shelter your friends for however long they wish.  You will not be a prisoner, but I will not allow you to freely roam.  In short, your life is in danger."

"Sesshoumaru, I don't know what to say.  I'm sorry but I can not accept such an offer.  Th-There are things that I need to do, things I must accomplish before I could even begin to move forward.  The jewel, and-"

He nodded.  "I understand your situation but keep in mind what I said."  He lightly touched her face.  "If you are willing to give your life to this Sesshoumaru, than I shall give mine to you.  I am now keeping watch over you, Kagome."

She was moved by his whispered words, and her eyes welled up with tears.  "Sesshoumaru."

"We will return to the castle to resupply Ah-Un and rest.  I will send word to the monk and taijiya.  Inuyasha will be welcomed but only if he behaves."

The two returned to camp, finding Shippou and Sango waiting by the fire.  Sesshoumaru invited them to stay at the castle until they could get a good direction on which way Naraku had headed.  Shippou nestled in Kagome's arms as the trio lifted off, letting the woman relay the information.

The next several days was spent in a dreamy state for the weary group.  Sesshoumaru treated them to feathered beds and four-course meals topped with desserts.  Their mornings were spent lounging around as the lord was busy with meetings and paperwork.  In the afternoons, they met about their plans on Naraku, and to learn of any new information or developments.  The group, and even Inuyasha, was surprised at how helpful it had been at having Sesshoumaru's resources at their disposal.

In the evenings, the unusual band ate at in the dinning hall and would then retire to the large library before bed.  In all his years, Sesshoumaru had not enjoyed his home, and the finer things, so much as he did in those short hours each day.  It gave him time to study Kagome, and everyone else.  Her small smile, her blushing cheeks, and bright eyes.  It was hard to think of a time when there was not something so bright in his life, not since he first met Rin.

The human females seemed to becoming a part of his life so much so that he could not recall a time without them beside him, nor would he want to.  Sesshoumaru was stunned when he finally realized this assessment of his current bundled feelings.  Kagome glanced his way and their eyes caught briefly.  He could feel her heart flutter as he tried to not imagine her body under him.

As the days and nights progressed, the demon lord found himself watching the miko every minute he could.  During the hours of light, they held polite conversations.  He could feel the tension in her body when he was beside her, and smell the sexual aroma that permeated through the fabric of her clothing.  He would always hide his smile when he knew Inuyasha was seething with anger at Kagome's reaction to him.  But it was one he reciprocated. 

The dark hours brought all of his suppressed emotions to the forefront and Sesshoumaru could do nothing but burn with the desire and lust he felt for the human female.  He could not explain it.  He tried to, at first, but it proved fruitless and in the end, had decided it didn't matter what attracted him to her.  He could not rationalize with his inner beast in the least and had exhausted his means.  His endless walks always brought him to her bedside, watching the miko sleep peacefully.  Her serene expression eased an ache that he had not known existed.  And yet he could never bring himself to touch her.

The lord was content enough until their self-induced fantasy ended.  Inuyasha had been persistent about moving out in the suggested direction; north.  After a week of the hanyou's complaining, the group had finally decided to pack up and move along, trying to track down the elusive Naraku.  Sesshoumaru agreed, surprising Inuyasha, and supplied their immediate rations.

On the morning of the eighteenth day at the Western Lord's estate, the small band of travelers left the stone palace, heading north-east to the river before following it north.  The journey was relatively quiet but with each passing day, tension grew between the brothers as Sesshoumaru was never more than five feet from Kagome at any given moment.

The hanyou remembered what his friends had said before.  'Was Sesshoumaru really serious about Kagome?'  Yet, Inuyasha still believed that the young miko only had feelings for him.  His brother's interest in the girl had caused worry and Inuyasha feared that the demon lord would find out Kagome's darkest secret; her future life.

On the eve of the sixth day, the group settled near the river, in an alcove of rocks hidden by dense growth.  The spot provided a large shelter, enough so that the entire party, including Ah-Un, would be able to take cover.  And they had access to a small open area that could easily transform into a fire pit.

Kagome and Sango began setting up the camp, with Shippou and Rin's help, as the men surveyed the area.  Miroku and Inuyasha headed toward the banks of the water.  The hanyou went farther upstream, leaving the monk to finish inspecting the area.  Sesshoumaru easily scanned the immediate vicinity without leaving the miko's side.  Within the hour, the members had reunited. 

As Kagome finished setting up the fire, she announced that they would need a little extra meat or it would be mostly ramen again.  Though Inuyasha stated that he didn't mind, the look the miko shot him said otherwise.  The hanyou grumbled about having to hunt when his brother brought all other kinds of stuff but disappeared into the forest anyway. 

Miroku and Shippou laughed a little as they exchanged looks.  Rin sat playing beside the kit as they colored the paper that Kagome had handed them.  Sango smiled as she glanced over at the demon reclining against the tree.  The taijiya nudged the woman to her right.  Kagome looked up then over to where her friend had pointed.

The miko shook her head, then blushed before speaking.  "Sesshoumaru, Sango and I are going to the river for a bath before dinner.  Um, there isn't a need--"

"I can hear anyone from miles away.  If there is need of my presence, I will warn you first.  I am not a pervert."

They turned to look at Miroku who smiled.  "Thank you," she muttered as they left.

Dusk fell as the stars dotted the atmosphere.  The two women returned to find that Inuyasha had come and gone, dropping the rabbit off in a haste to venture south.  Kagome was a little perplexed but kept her questions to herself.  They readied the meat and within the hour, the meal was finished.

By that time, Kagome had figured out why Inuyasha had disappeared.  Even with everything Sesshoumaru had spoken to them about, both openly and privately to her, Inuyasha still snuck off to see her.  It didn't matter to Inuyasha that Kikyou had tried to kill her.  It seemed all the hanyou could think about was her.  Kikyou.  The dead priestess.

And everyone knew.  Everyone knew that Inuyasha had never kissed Kagome.  Everyone knew that all he had was Kikyou, but no one knew that Inuyasha's hatred boiled when he remembered the passionate kiss he witnessed between Kagome and Sesshoumaru.  The demon prince was clearly coming onto the young miko.  It infuriated the hanyou to see Kikyou's reincarnation be touched by anyone other than him.  And Inuyasha couldn't figure out why his brother was so attracted to Kagome, she was a human after all.  But his thoughts were fleeting and just as indecisive as he was.  Everyone knew where Inuyasha had gone and who he would see.

Sesshoumaru had waited patiently for Kagome to realize that the hanyou could not change because he was chained to the dead miko.  He had been cordial and distant, not trying to impose but letting her think about his offer.  Even though it was apparent that the current situation was a strain on her, she still tried to keep the peace when the two brothers were around each other.  Though Sesshoumaru could not truly appreciate her generous gesture, he gave her credit for the attempts.  Her strength was an amazing site to see day in and day out.  It helped to reassure the demon that his beast had not thought him crazy too. 

But now, his heart crumbled as he watched Kagome's face.  She numbly passed out the food in portions as she sat pushing hers around.  Several minutes later she excused herself, heading north past their nightly shelter.  Sesshoumaru kept his anger in check.  Why would Kagome think Inuyasha would change?  He would make the miko accept his offer, even if it was for her own good.  'She may be angry, but she will be alive to be angry.'

~ . o . O . o . ~

Yay, done!  Thanks to Marcia for being a wonderful beta.  The next chapter will pick up where nine left off.  Please be patient as eleven will take some time for me to finish.  R & R welcome.