InuYasha Fan Fiction / Fullmetal Alchemist Fan Fiction ❯ Into the Well and Through the Gate To Edward’s House We Go ❯ Kagome's Story Part 3 ( Chapter 5 )

Into the Well and Through the Gate To Edward's House We Go

 

Disclaimer: I do not own InuYasha or Full Metal Alchemist.

 

Chapter Five-Kagome's StoryPart 3

 

Feudal Era

 

“Well…I…err” Kagome stuttered, suddenly feeling very self conscious. “What I mean is…darn it Sango, I'm just gonna say it.

 

“Please Kagome, I wish you would” replied Sango feeling a bit bewildered herself. “You know you can talk about anything with me. For Kami's sake, you're like my little sister.”

 

“I know and you're right. It's just that with everything going on, I'm afraid there isn't enough time to do everything I wanted.”

 

“I know exactly what you mean.” was Sango's wholehearted reply. With the deaths of so many close to her, she probably knew better than anybody how precious time was. She thanked the Kamis everyday that gave her a second chance with her brother. Although he was now with Lord Sesshoumaru in order to pay off his debt to the taiyoukai, she was still able to see him from time to time. Bringing herself from thoughts of her brother she again turned her attention to her best friend hoping that she didn't miss anything important.

 

“and I really think you need to tell him if that is the case.” Kagome finished up.

 

“I'm not really sure what to say Kagome.” Sango quickly responded in an attempt to cover her woolgathering. Hopefully she could discern what they were talking about rather swiftly.

 

Kagome tried hard not to smile. She had noticed that Sango's thoughts had been led astray so decided to have a little fun. “Well you have to admit that it would be nice to be married to a guy that so openly declares himself.”

 

“I guess, but it can be a bit annoying too. Don't you agree?”

 

“Well yes I suppose so, but if his feelings are that strong and he doesn't express those feelings for anyone else, isn't it worth it? Especially if you love him?”

 

“You do have a point.”

 

“Then it's settled. I'm sure you and Kouga will be very happy together!” Kagome exclaimed with an amused smirk.

 

“Wha wh phplt phta WHAT?” Sango sputtered as she attempted to bring herself back up onto the ledge before she drowned herself.

 

“HA HA HA!” It was all Kagome could do not to slide off the ledge herself. The look on Sango's face was priceless. “I'm sorry, but I couldn't resist when I noticed you weren't paying attention to me.

 

“Sorry.” Sango responded sheepishly and then with a bit more force while trying not to laugh herself, “but that wasn't funny.”

 

“Yeah, I think it was actually. Anyways, I was really talking about Miroku and your plans.”

 

“That's funny because I wanted to talk about you and InuYasha”

 

“That's fair enough. I want to go first though.” When Sango gave a nod she began again. “What are your plans with Miroku? I mean I haven't heard either of you really speak about it ever since he proposed to you and you accepted. I've been hoping that you would say something, but as far as I know you haven't discussed it. Unless its been while I've been back home.”

 

“No, as a matter of fact he hasn't said a thing since then, although he doesn't go around groping other women as much. Which is the point isn't it. He still does and we haven't discussed anything so maybe he regrets asking me. Especially now that the curse is gone and he doesn't necessarily need an heir to carry on the family vendetta.”

 

Kagome gazed over at her friend with understanding. She definitely understood the uncertainty of whether or not feelings were returned. “Have you told him how you feel Sango?” Scooting over next to her friend she grabbed her hand and squeezed it reassuringly. “Have you told him you love him?”

 

Sango gasped, but squeezed Kagome's hand in response. “Kagome, I could never presume or be that forward. It just isn't proper.” She managed to reply.

 

“Well that is one good thing about my era. Women don't have to wait for the men. Although most still do. It's not really a matter of what's proper, but confidence.” Kagome paused for a moment seeming to be deep in thought. Her eyes lit up as she spoke again. “Sango, I know that you were raised to be a demon slayer in a village of demon slayers, but you always inferred that you were the only female in the group. Is that correct?”

 

“Yes. That was because my mother had died and my father as the head of our village chose to raise me as such.”

 

“I can understand that, but why were you the only one?”

 

“Because it wasn't considered proper for a woman to do a man's job. I know it is not the same in your time, even before I became your friend it was obvious that you were raised very differently than most. As I am sure you have become aware of, in this era and as far back as any story can tell, women are supposed to be seen and not heard. They are supposed to do their family proud by procuring a good husband and providing said husband with a son to carry on the family name and traditions. That's just how things are.”

 

Kagome grimaced. How well she was aware of what she considered one of the biggest shortcomings of this era. They gave “barefoot and pregnant” a whole new meaning. “Do you regret how your father raised you?” she asked although she was pretty sure of the answer.

 

“No. If that was the case I wouldn't have been there when they died and I would have rather been there no matter the pain, than have been slaughtered with the rest of my village with my final thought wondering what happened to them. Also, I never would have met any of you and yes I see where you're getting at, but that doesn't make it any easier.”

 

“You know there is a saying in my time and I'm not really sure how old it is. Heck, for all I know we're inventing it right now. It goes, “it is better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all”. I know there have been plenty of times that I thought what a crock, but actually I think it's probably quite true.” Pausing for a moment to see if anything seemed to be sinking in to her stubborn friend she then continued. “You know I have a friend back home that really cared for this boy she knew, but something happened and it was too late, she couldn't tell him how she felt and the kicker was, that she found out he felt the same way. So now her heart is full of regret. While on the other hand, I look at my mom and see none. She and my father loved each other very much and even though he died several years ago and she still misses him to this very day, I know that she wouldn't give up the time they had together for anything. Do you see what I'm saying?”

 

“Sure I do, I'm not totally blind. It's easier said than done though isn't it?” She responded as she glared knowingly at Kagome.

 

Kagome fidgeted for a moment as she was now certain that the tables were about to turn. “Yeah, it sure is.” She hesitantly replied.

 

“Well now that we have talked about me lets talk about you. I think we need to talk about you and a very possessive demon we both know.”

 

Kagome gulped. She just knew it was going to come to this eventually.

 

“So how many cubs are you and Kouga going to have?”

 

“WHAT phplt phta ?!?”

 

<scene change>

 

“Hey monk. What the hell are you doing sitting outside of the old hag's hut while the girls are off bathing. Have you come down with a fever?”

 

“Now Inuyasha, why would you think a thing like that? I am by all means a devout follower of Buddha.” was Miroku's solemn response.

 

InuYasha only response was a loud snort as he sat down next to Miroku on the dew dampened ground. “So what are you doing out here? I mean you don't have to tell me, cause it's none of my business, but oh whatever…” InuYasha trailed off.

 

“InuYasha you're quite the conversationalist.” Miroku stated with a mild snicker.

 

“What the? What do you mean by that? Stupid monk.” InuYasha could feel his cheeks burning as he contemplated the need to pound on his companion's smiling face.

 

“Now now, InuYasha, I meant nothing by it. If you must know, I was thinking about our group. Something which I am sure all of us are doing since no matter what happens when the jewel is purified, there will be some drastic changes to deal with.” Miroku turned a serious face towards InuYasha. “My friend, I know this is hard for you, but are you going to tell Kagome how you feel?”

 

“What the hell are you talking about monk?” was InuYasha's anxious response.

 

“InuYasha! I am only speaking of this to you because of the shortage of time. Everyone knows how the two of you feel about each other and I, no, we don't want to see you both miss the chance to tell each other.”

 

“Listen I don't know what you're talking about. She was only here to detect shards and now that's done. Besides Kikyo needs me to go with her.” `Not to mention there is no way Kagome would feel the same about me. Sure she said she would stay by me, but that's because we're best friends.'

 

“Damn it! Do I need to beat some sense into you?” Miroku gripped his staff and waved it over InuYasha in a threatening manner.

 

“Fuck off monk. You can't take me on and you know it.” InuYasha growled back.

 

Miroku let out a tired sigh as he contemplated his next words. “InuYasha, I know your life has held many difficulties, but I truly believe that everything happened because it was your destiny to be with Kagome. Just as it is mine to be with Sango.” Shifting into a more comfortable position, he continued. “You are a good man” InuYasha glared at him. “er demon, you know what I mean InuYasha, and Kagome does love you. Much more than Kikyo ever did.”

 

“Don't say anything about Kikyo, you don't know anything about her and me.” InuYasha snapped back.

 

“I beg to differ InuYasha, I have been with you for three years. More than enough time to form an educated opinion on the situation. We both know Kagome accepts you for who you are, not what you are. Something Kikyo never did. Furthermore, Kikyo's not alive. She only exists on a stolen portion of Kagome's soul and the souls of the dead. Do you really want her to take part of Kagome's soul to hell? And in all actuality, I don't think that will happen because then how would Kagome have had her entire soul when she came to this time? Did you ever consider that?”

 

InuYasha was silent as he pondered Miroku's words. In all honesty, he had to agree with the monk. Kagome did care for him differently than Kikyo did, but love? He wasn't sure, although he knew how he felt about her. He also hadn't thought of what the final outcome of his situation with Kikyo was destined to be. If you considered what had already happened when you considered how the future already was, that put a whole new spin on things. `Fuck I'm already getting a headache.' Bringing his knees up in front of him, he hung his head between them. “I have a feeling I'm gonna regret this, but what do you suggest?”

 

“I think you already know what I am going to say. Talk to her. Before it's too late, talk to her. As for Kikyo, do you really owe her your life? You didn't kill her, Naraku did and you avenged her death. For Kami's sake, that should be enough. If she was still alive I could see where her feelings might come into play, but still you need to look out for your happiness too. You and Kagome are my best friends, so I'm biased, but I want to see you happy.” “Also,” he continued with a smirk as he wiggled his eyebrows “we have to see who can have the most pups!”

 

“Fucking pervert!” InuYasha choked out. Now he really was blushing. Unable to hide the silly smile on his face he chose to smack his friend upside his head instead.

 

“Ow! Now was that really deserved?” Miroku whined as he sat himself back up from the reclining position he had just been forced into.

 

“Hell yes! Besides it felt good to me.”

 

“Hmph! I'm sure it did. Okay enough of the serious talk for tonight. What say you? Do we go look for the girls? You know it is getting awfully late and they may need big strong men to accompany them back in the dark.”

 

“Keh! Do you have a death wish? You know Sango's gonna kick your ass if she finds you anywhere near the hot springs. Shit monk, get that stupid look off your face.” InuYasha continued in mock disgust. “I'm positive that I don't want to know what you're thinking about.”

 

Miroku pulled himself out of his daze to respond with a leer. “Are you sure? I promise it was good.”

 

“Feh! Whatever! I'll take your word for it. I'm gonna go to the Goshinboku for a while.” As InuYasha stood up and stretched he added. “And don't even think of moving from this spot to spy on the girls.” He added a glare for good measure. With that he bounded off to his favorite place, in both eras, to think.

 

Miroku's eyes followed his friend sadly as he left his line of sight. “InuYasha, I pray that you choose the path that will bring you both happiness.” he sighed. “Well on a different note, I think I need to stretch my legs too!” And with that he sauntered off into the woods in the direction that just coincidentally happened to be in the same vicinity as his hearts desire, Sango.

 

<scene change>

 

“Okay I guess I deserved that.” Kagome muttered as she glared at the laughing girl next to her.

 

“Yeah you did, but all kidding aside Kagome, what are you going to do about InuYasha? You really need to take your own advice you know.” Sango snickered some more as she closed the cap on the shampoo bottle and began to lather her hair. She took a discrete sniff. `mmm lavender, my favorite' This was one of the things she would miss the most if the well stopped working. Bathtime was more of a pleasure than a necessity with the items that Kagome brought from her time. Although, she would gladly trade everything that Kagome brought with her if it meant she could stay with them.

 

“You're right, but it would be much easier if it was just the two of us involved.” was her soft reply.

 

“Ah Kikyo” Sango knowingly stated.

 

“Yes Kikyo. It's always Kikyo Kikyo Kikyo! How can I tell him how I feel when I know he loves someone else? That's just asking to get my heart broken.” Kagome grabbed up the shampoo bottle and poured a good amount into the palm of her hand before putting it back on the side on the spring. She then proceeded to cleanse her now hip length hair with no little amount of frustration.

 

“Kagome, are you really sure that he still loves her? He hasn't been going off to meet her like he used to. At least not that I've noticed.” She spoke out before dunking her head under the water to rinse.

 

Kagome swiftly followed suit and after reemerging, she lathered her bath scrunchie with the bodywash she had in her bag before tossing it to Sango. “ I'd have to be blind not to have noticed, but that doesn't mean that he is over her and that he even loves me.” She reflected as she took the bodywash back from Sango and placed it next to the shampoo bottle.

 

“This is true, but you have more to gain then to lose Kagome. I think you need to tell him. Remember, “no regrets”. How about this? I'll talk to Miroku, if you talk to InuYasha. How's that? Deal?”

 

Kagome absentmindedly chewed on her bottom lip while wondering if she could do it. She wanted to, but was fearful of the outcome. `Although, what do I really have to be afraid of? If he rejects me, he rejects me. After all, I am going into this with my eyes wide open, expecting the worst. Kami, your such a cowardly baka Kagome, you have to let him know or you will regret it. You know that even if he confirms your greatest fear, the world won't end. Just feel like it for a while, maybe a long while, but you will survive.'

 

Raising her eyes to look directly at Sango, she nodded her agreement. “Okay, we'll borrow courage from each other.” She said with a grin all of a sudden feeling excitement coursing through her. `Maybe this won't be so bad'

 

“That's a great way to look at it. Are you going to talk to him before you go back tomorrow morning?” Sango inquired as she finished drying herself off and slipped on her yukata.

 

“I think I should before I chicken out and talk myself out of it. Actually that thought is awfully tempting” Kagome smiled wryly as she too dressed. Wriggling into her jeans she hopped around trying to pull up the zipper to the tune of Sango's giggles. `Damn I thought I left these at home. Mom was supposed to take them back and exchange them for a size larger. Yeah laugh it up Sango. Let's see you try to get in them.' Gone was her school uniform and in its place where more sensible items. It still amazed her at how much of an idiot she had been for the first year of their journey. Traipsing around and ruining her uniforms so that her mom either had to mend them, have them professional cleaned or even buy new ones. Now she usually wore jeans, hiking boots and a t-shirt. Much better suited to trek around in the forest and fight youkai in.

 

Kagome's impromptu calisthenics were interrupted when Sango suddenly stopped her giggling with a shout of “HENTAI!” All of a sudden a large rock went barreling through the air to find its home behind a dense bush that skirted the hot springs.

 

“Houshi-sama! That had better not be you. If it is, I swear you won't be able to grope anyone and I mean anyone for a month! Do you hear me?”

 

“Demo my dear Sango… aack…onegai… onegai stop for a moment.” Miroku cried out as he dodged another projectile. Once he saw that no more objects were coming his way for the moment, he straightened himself up to his full height. “Gomen for intruding, but we were worried since you have taken far longer than usual with your nightly ablutions.” Miroku offered as he gave his most serious expression mixed with a bad case of puppy eyes.

 

Kagome raised her hand to cover her smile and silence her laughter. She knew no one, especially Sango, could hold up to that look for long. Glancing over at the slayer, she knew she was correct. Humming the tune “love is in the air”, she turned around and placed her right boot clad foot on one of the larger rocks. Bending over to finish securing the laces she felt a foreign presence that had no business being where it currently resided.

 

*SMACK*

 

“HENTAI!” was heard shouted in stereo. Both demon slayer and miko were now standing over the prone figure of the monk.

 

“Gomen Kagome-sama. Demo it could not be helped. Your apparel was calling out to this cursed hand and I could not restrain it even with the rosary.” was the meek explanation given.

 

Kagome couldn't help but roll her eyes at Miroku's weak attempt at an excuse, knowing full well that he wasn't the least bit sorry. Looking over at Sango, she could see that her friend was well aware of that fact also. Thinking quickly in order to halt any arguments of that might spring up she decided to get the ball rolling in another direction.

 

“Really houshi-sama! How can you even think of using that excuse? Have you used it so often that it has become a habit? May I remind you that your hand is no longer cursed?!?”

 

“That's all right Miroku. I'll forgive you this time and you are correct, we have taken much more time than usual. In fact I'm going to go check on Shippo and get ready for bed. Sango, can you finish picking up our things and Miroku can you stay behind and watch out for any stray demons that might be around?” She stared at Sango hoping that she would get a clue and take the opportunity. Sango's blush acknowledged the unspoken words.

 

“Hai! Certainly Kagome-sama. I will do all that is in my power to protect my dear Lady Sango from the treacherous…” Miroku began.

 

“Okay okay, Miroku. Let's not lay it on too thick. We get the picture.” Sango muttered. Turning to Kagome she threw her a look that said “you'll pay for this”.

 

Kagome gulped loudly and decided to beat a hasty retreat. “On that note, I'm gonna head on back. Don't be up too late boys and girls.” She snickered as she made her way back to Kaede's.

 

`Good luck my sister'

 

<scene change>

 

InuYasha tried to relax in the topmost branches of the Goshinboku, but couldn't. His earlier conversation with Miroku plagued him along with thoughts of both Kagome and Kikyo. `Baka what are you going to do? You care for them both, but what is the right thing to do? What will my honor allow? Is it possible that Kikyo's, no I mean Kagome's, sole never goes to hell? I mean she wouldn't be the Kagome she is if her sole ever resided in hell would she? Plus Miroku seems to feel that if that portion of the soul did go to hell then it never would have been part of Kagome to begin with, therefore it didn't. Damn headache's getting stronger. I can feel it. Shit. Fuck. Damn. Okay much better. Now where was I? Oh ye…'InuYasha's thoughts were abruptly interrupted by what felt like a rope tied around his ankle that hauled him down from his perch onto the unforgiving ground below.

 

Immediately springing up into a fighting stance, he pulled Tetsusaiga from its scabbard and faced his opponent. Seeing who the offender was, he snarled out “Oi! What the fuck do you want asshole and why the hell did you do that?” His head tilted over towards the tree to indicate the subject of his question.

 

“Baka! If you were more aware of your surroundings, you would have noticed me. No wonder our father left you the Tetsusaiga. How else would a weakling like you survive otherwise.” InuYasha's brother, Sesshoumaru, growled out while recoiling his youki whip back within.

 

“What the fuck do you want Sesshoumaru? We already agreed that you weren't getting Tetsusaiga.” InuYasha brandished said sword in warning.

 

“Baka! This Sesshoumaru has no need of your sword. The miko requested the slayer's brother's presence before she returned home and so we are here.”

 

“Wait a minute we just decided she was going home today so how did you know? And furthermore, why on earth would you of all demons bother with bringing a human to see another human?”

“That is none of your concern. Suffice it to say that we are here and that is all.” `Wouldn't it just drive the hanyou mad to know that his precious miko and I were partially bonded. Too bad this Sesshoumaru promised her to keep it a secret from him, but then I wanted to keep it a secret from everyone else, so it is just as well. Pity though.' Sesshoumaru then retreated in a swirl of silver and white presumably to his campsite.

 

“What the hell is going on around here?” InuYasha muttered to himself before bounding off to the village.

 

<scene change>

 

Kagome let out a long sigh as she approached Kaede's hut. It looked like Kaede and Shippo had already turned in for the night. She seriously doubted that InuYasha had joined them since it really wasn't that late and since he wasn't outside or on the roof, it most likely meant that he was off in his forest doing Kami knows what. Walking up to the entrance she held the reed mat to the side and quietly entered the one room abode. She quickly verified that, yes indeed, both of them had called it a night, with Shippo currently snuggled up in her sleeping bag awaiting her arrival no doubt. Tiptoeing over to the corner, she grabbed her backpack and exited the hut.

 

Walking over to the edge of the clearing, she sat herself up against a large tree trunk. Placing the pack on her lap she began to unload its contents and arrange them around her. On her left were the items that she was going to leave here no matter what her fate was, on her right were items that were non essential for life here in the feudal era nor did they have any sentimental value so they would be going home and lastly directly in front of her were the items that she needed for tomorrow before she left.

 

As she started to repack the items she was leaving here into her backpack, she looked up when she heard footsteps approaching.

 

“Kagome?” a sleepy voice called out. “Can I come and sit with you?”

 

“Oh Shippo, I'm sorry. Did I wake you? Of course you can join me. Come her sweetie. Do you want to help me?” Kagome held out her arms as her mothering instincts kicked in, causing the young kitsune to hurriedly climb into her lap and snuggle to his heart's content.

 

“Sure I'll help you Kagome. Watcha doin'?”

 

“Well I'm separating all of our belongings into groups. Ones that will stay, ones that will go and ones that I want to use tomorrow. I'm going to repack the bag with the items that will be staying and find a sack to pack the items that I want to take back to my time. I may need to use a shirt and tie it off at the sleeves and neck and use that. What ever works ri…?” She stopped when she felt more than heard the small sobs coming from Shippo. “Hey sweetie what's wrong? Come here. Look at me and tell me.” Although she had a pretty good idea what was wrong she knew that it would help him to talk about it and she was right.

 

Shippo slowly raised his head from her stomach and opened his forest green eyes that looked so much like polished glass with the tears that they still held. “I don't want you to goooooo!” he wailed. “I love you Kagome and I want to be with you forever”

 

Kagome felt her own eyes prick with tears she was desperately trying to hold back. Her tears could come later. Right now she needed to be coherent for him. Placing her fingertips below his chin she tilted his head to look straight into her eyes. “Shippo, I don't want to leave you either. I love you as if you were my own child. I love you, Sango, Miroku, Kaede and … and” could she admit it to someone other than herself and Sango?

 

“And InuYasha.” Shippo finished for her.

 

“Yes. And InuYasha and it is my greatest hope that the well won't send me away without any means to get back to you.” She hugged him a little closer as she allowed a few of her own tears to fall.

 

“Kagome can I ask you a question and you have to swear to tell me the truth?” Shippo asked with a disturbingly adult look on his face.

 

“Um. Sure I guess so. What is it you want to know honey?” was Kagome's slightly hesitant response. With the look on Shippo's face she wasn't really sure what she was setting herself up for, but if it helped ease his mind then it was worth it. At least she hoped so.

 

“Well I know you said you loved us all right?”

 

“Um, yes.”

 

“Demo there is someone you love more than the rest though isn't there?” he innocently inquired.

 

`Oh crap!'

 

“You know…I mean… ah… InuYasha…what are your feelings about dog boy?” Shippo's fur instantly bristled as he finished his question.

 

Kagome lightly stroked his back to calm him while attempting to show that she wasn't upset with this sudden line of questioning he had entered on.

 

“You're right Shippo. I love him very much. More than I could have ever imagined possible.”

 

“Does that mean you love him more than me?” was his anxious response.

 

“No Shippo. I love you differently, that's all. As I said you're like my own child.”

 

“And you love InuYasha like he was your mate or like what humans call a husband right?”

 

“Well um you see um” she stuttered. Taking a deep breath she continued. “We aren't really involved like that Shippo, but yes you're correct I do hold that type of love for InuYasha.”

 

“I'm glad.” He sighed as he snuggled back into her embrace.

 

This surprised Kagome since she believed that it would have been more likely for Shippo to be jealous when you considered how the two treated each other, but maybe she was wrong. She and the others saw the familial concern the two had for each other, but she didn't think that they were aware of it. This notion was solidified when Shippo sat up in her lap, turned towards the direction of the Goshinboku and said “I'm glad because he deserves to be happy and I love him too.”

 

With that pronouncement, Kagome could no longer hold back her tears and broke out into sobs. “Oh Shippo, what am I going to do without all of you?” came her strangled cry. Hugging Shippo tighter she didn't notice the approach of Miroku and Sango until they were upon them.

 

“Kagome-sama? Shippo? Kagome?” was heard from the two as they cautiously approached the crying pair. “Is everything all right Kagome-sama?

 

Wiping her eyes, Kagome looked up at her friends with a tremulous smile. “Sorry guys. We kind of got side tracked and got a little emotional, but we're all right now. Aren't we Shippo?”

 

“Right mama.” Shippo chirped back.

 

Stunned it was all Kagome could do not to start bawling again. “Oh Shippo” she squealed instead while hugging him even tighter.

 

Miroku and Sango gave each other a knowing look. Clearly more had gone on between the two than usual.

 

Clearing her throat to get attention and to change the subject to a less emotional path, Sango inquired as to why Kagome's belongings were laying out on the ground, but before Kagome could answer her a figure in red dropped down in front of her.

 

“Oi! You all throwing a party and forgot to invite me?” he asked with a smirk.

 

“Kami, InuYasha! Give a girl some warning. You almost gave me a heart attack.” Kagome exclaimed. “ Now would we do something like that?”

 

“Feh!” InuYasha snorted.

 

“I believe, Kagome-sama, that you were going to explain what you where doing with all of your supplies.” Miroku encouraged.

 

“Oh, well yes. As a matter of fact, as I already told Shippo, I'm separating everything into groups.” She waived her hands to indicate the three piles. “This pile is staying here when I leave for my time tomorrow. As you can see, things like the first aid kit, medical book, matches, food and anything else that can be useful here in this time will be kept in my backpack and left here. This other pile is going back with me and then this pile is for tomorrow morning. Actually we were just getting ready to repack everything. I just need some type of sack to pack the items in that I want to carry back.”

 

“Here Kagome, you can use this.” Sango offered as she held out the scarf that normally held her demon slayer's mask.

 

“Thanks Sango that should work perfectly and I swear I won't leave it behind when we return.” Kagome promised.

 

“Well then. Let's help you get all of this packed so that we can get to sleep. It's getting late and I know you want to get an early start tomorrow morning.” With this Sango kneeled down beside her and began to pack the essential items back into the big yellow bag.

 

“Great. Thanks a lot. Okay, I'll take care of this pile, if the three of you can carry those loose items that are for tomorrow.” She offered as she looked over at her three male companions. After obtaining their agreement, she spread out the scarf that Sango had provided and quickly filled it with what was left over.

 

“Kagome-sama, might I inquire as to the nature of some of these objects? I do not recall having seen some of these in your possession before.” Miroku politely inquired with barely restrained curiosity.

 

Tying up the scarf so that it resembled a knapsack, she set it to the side so that she could give her attention to the monk. Seeing what he held she laughed softly. “No you haven't seen that and there is no reason why you shouldn't have. I don't now what possessed me never to bring one of those. What you have there is a camera and it makes photographs. You remember the picture of my family that I showed you long ago? Well it makes those.” she explained.

 

“Ah. That is remarkable Kagome-sama. That something so small could produce a painting of such quality.”

 

“Well, er it's not exactly a painting”

 

“Feh! She has those things all over the walls of her room.” InuYasha bragged.

 

“Oh really and what exactly were you doing in Kagome-sama's room? Hmmm?”

 

*WHACK* “Fucking monk!”

 

*SMACK* “Houshi-sama!”

 

“Geez Miroku you never will learn. Will you?”

 

“Kagome-sama a little help here?” Miroku pleaded.

 

Kagome couldn't help but smile as she watched her four best friends. `Kami I'm going to miss them if I'm sent away.'

 

“Okay guys lets wrap this up and get to bed.” Kagome suggested as she grabbed her backpack. “Sango can you grab that?” indicating the knapsack with a nod of her head.

 

“Of course.” She replied as she scooped up the parcel. “Come on you guys lets get back and be quiet about it. I'm sure Kaede is asleep by know.”

 

“Yeah she was asleep when I got up to see Kagome.” Shippo verified.

 

With that, they all approached the hut and entered as quietly as possible. They each then took up their normal sleeping positions and quickly fell asleep, with the exception of InuYasha who now seemed to have even more to think of.

 

Bracing himself up in the corner of the room he allowed his gaze to fall on each of his friends and then remain on Kagome. When Sesshoumaru had left him he had returned to the village with the intent of getting some answers from Kagome. Instead he almost walked in on her conversation with Shippo.

 

He knew the runt was aware that he was approaching so he was surprised when he didn't give away his position. He had just come into hearing range when Shippo had started to cry about Kagome leaving. Then much to his surprise he got Kagome to admit her feelings. Although, he almost blew his cover when he growled at Shippo's “dog boy” comment. Shippo had then looked directly at him and said that he loved him too! To say that he was shocked was an understatement.

 

He now acknowledged that he was blessed and it was all due to Kagome. If she hadn't become his friend then he would not have had any of his other friends. He knew that for sure. `Hell I wouldn't have even given them the time of day and to be truthful they would have probably been the same way. She's what made us a family. Family. I never thought I would ever use that word again when it came to my life.' He closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the wall as he contemplated the decision he was about to make. Opening his eyes, he smiled as he felt a tremendous weight lifted from his heart. He now knew what the right choice was.

 

Moving over to Kagome's side he gently shook her shoulder. When she didn't awaken, `The wench always did sleep like the dead.' he moved Shippo over next to Kirara and scooped Kagome up bridal style. Exiting the hut, he made his way back to the Goshinboku.

 

Upon arriving at the sacred tree he leapt up onto the lower branches and made himself comfortable before attempting to awaken the girl in his arms. It was time to talk and he had effectively cut off any escape route she might have taken.

 

“Kagome! Oi Kagome! Wench!” each utterance increasing in volume.

 

“Huh? Wha? InuYa..Eep!!!” was heard from Kagome as she became fully awake with a start.

 

“InuYasha! What in the world is going on? How did I get out here? Never mind I think I know, but why? It's the middle of the night for Kami's sake.” To say she was confused was putting it mildly. In all the three years she had known him, he had never done something like this. Not that she really minded waking up in his arms, but she certainly was surprised and she had to admit a little worried. `What if he brought me here to say goodbye?' she wondered.

 

“We need to talk Kagome.” InuYasha was startled when he detected the anxiety in her scent and was even more so when it increased and was tinged with fear. “Oi wench calm down!” he ordered while tightening his hold on her. “I'm not going to let you fall.”

 

“What are you talking about?” Kagome then realized where they were sitting. “InuYasha, I know you won't ever let me fall.”

 

“Well then what the fuck is wrong?” he demanded.

 

“Not a damn thing!” she swore back. “And stop cursing!”

 

“Oi! Why not? You just did bitch!” `Oh this is good I love it when she gets riled up.'

 

“What did you call me? What did I tell you about that?!? SI.” She began but was swiftly halted with a hand over her mouth.

 

“Baka! Did you forget where we are?” He snatched his hand away as he felt her tongue glide over the palm. “What the hell was that?” he shouted.

 

“What on earth are you talking about?” she innocently inquired.

 

Maybe he had imagined it. “Nothing.” he replied.

 

“InuYasha, why are we up in a tree in the middle of the night?”

 

“I want to talk to you. I want to talk about what is going to happen. I want to talk about us.”

 

`Kami he looks so serious. Is this going to be good or bad?' “Alright, what exactly is it you want to talk about?”

 

“Well it's like this…um…what I want to say is…I'm not sure where to begin…oh hell” and with that he leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.

 

Needless to say there was now one very stunned miko in his arms. Quickly collecting her wits, Kagome decided to go with the flow. Not that she ever had any intention of fighting it.

 

Feeling her response, InuYasha pressed a little harder and then pulled away. Gazing down into her flushed face he had to admit that he had never seen her more beautiful than at this moment. Hell she was practically glowing. `What the fuck?!? She is glowing!'

 

“Oi! Kagome! What's with the fucking light show?”

 

“Hmm?” was her dazed response. Slowly becoming aware of what he was talking about, she closed off the rest of her senses to discover what was going on. Smiling broadly she opened her eyes. “I believe it's my miko powers calling out to you. I know they aren't trying to purify you, but I'm not sure what they are reacting to.”

 

“I do. It's my youki. I can feel it calling to you too.”

 

“InuYasha, what were you going to say to me before you…well you know…uh you kissed me?” She just knew her face had to be redder than his haori.

 

After taking a deep breath he decided to just spit it out. “I love you Kagome and I know there are a lot of issues that we need to address, but I just wanted to let you know that I love you and I want to be with you.”

 

She couldn't believe it! He had said it first. “I love you too.” She breathlessly replied. “Demo, what about Kikyo?”

 

He inwardly cringed and let out a heavy sigh. “I know I still need to deal with her, but know this…I have no intention in following her into hell and I know I do not belong with her. I still care about her Kagome, but she is not the woman that holds my heart. You are.”

 

With that, Kagome had no choice but to follow her urge, fling herself on her unsuspecting hanyou and burrow her face into his chest. `Kami he sure can be romantic when he chooses.'

 

She then tilted her face up and met his descending lips once more. This time, however, the kiss held more passion and hands started to roam. When InuYasha realized that one of his hands was caressing her rear, in a very Miroku-like way, he knew he needed to stop before things progressed any further. `It's awfully hard to stop with her wearing these pants though.' Good thing he didn't realize that those thoughts were creepily similar to a certain monk's earlier in the evening.

 

“Kagome.” He moaned.

 

“Mmmm yes InuYasha?” she asked as she dreamily gazed up into his amber eyes.

 

“Stay with me tonight?” He whispered softly in her ear as he held her close.

 

“What?” was her startled reply. “I don't know InuYasha. We did after all just now admit our feelings to each other. I'm not really sure I'm ready for that yet.”

 

“Whoa whoa whoa!” He frantically waved his hands as he backed slightly away. “That's not what I meant. I just want to spend the night up here with you in my arms.”

 

“Oh.” Kagome muttered, now very embarrassed. `Kami Kagome, you're such a hentai. Control yourself.' “Gomen InuYasha for thinking you would ask me something like that.”

 

“Well to be perfectly honest Kagome, I can't say that the thought hasn't crossed my mind, but I know we have a lot of other issues to deal with first. Now, what do you say? Will you stay with me?”

 

“Yes InuYasha. I will stay with you.” She hoped that he understood the double meaning to her answer.

 

“Good. Now come here.” And with that he pulled her over to him. Stifling a groan as her curves fit perfectly into his lap. `Kami I love these things she calls jeans.' “Comfortable?” he asked as he began to stroke her hair. At her nod, he placed a chaste kiss upon her forehead and told her to sleep.

 

It seemed like no time at all before he heard her breathing even out, indicating that she had fallen into slumber. Unfortunately for him, it seemed like it may be a long way in the future for him and his best friend Junior.

 

`Kami I hope she doesn't find out that I'm the one that switched out her jeans in her bag.' Was his last thought before sleep finally claimed him too.

 

<scene change>

 

Morning seemed to come all too soon, but with the revelations of the previous evening everyone was in high spirits. Especially Sango when she discovered the arrival of her brother, Kohaku.

 

After a quick breakfast of ramen, everyone gathered around the well for what Kagome called family picture time.

 

After many explanations and pleadings on her part, Kagome was able to shoot a couple of rolls of film of herself and her feudal family with the help of one of the villagers. She was even able to coerce Sesshoumaru and in turn his entourage. She was certain that it was only because he was curious about this modern contraption called a camera than anything else. `Dear Kami, now I know what Mom has to put up with when she tries to get Souta and me to take pictures'

 

After packing the cameras into the knapsack, she turned to InuYasha and asked if he was ready.

 

“Keh! I was born ready bitch!”

 

“SIT!”

 

*BAM*

 

“Temee…” was heard from the prostrate hanyou.

 

Kagome turned to her friends and smiled. “We'll be back in 3 days. Ja ne! Come on InuYasha. Last one in is a rotten egg!” And with that she hopped over the edge of the well, disappearing into the blue light.

 

InuYasha pulled himself up from the ground and scowled. `Oh you're in for it now bitch. You're gonna regret that one.' He smirked as he thought of all the delicious things he could now do to his bitch.

 

Giving a quick nod to everyone he prepared to follow Kagome, but stopped when he realized that he owed a certain someone his thanks. Looking over at Shippo he grunted “Thanks pup” knowing that the kitsune would be aware of what he was thanking him for.

 

He didn't miss the smile that illuminated the young one's face as everyone else raised questioning eyes to each other. The last think he heard as the well claimed him was Shippo's voice hollering “Anytime Pops!”

 

`Fucking runt!'