InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ The return of Anubis ❯ Week 1 ( Chapter 2 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

A/N: I do not own Inuyasha.

~X~

Last night's events were still fresh in that miko's mind as she slept within her futon, having quite the good dream, too.

Kagome dreamt of those exact events the night prior but that kiss grew into something more. A passionate yet heated kiss, something the two had long yearned for centuries. She'd cradle his head in her hands while Sesshoumaru wrapped those strong arms of his right around her waist, hugging her close in a near possessive manner. She could then feel his teeth nipping at her plump lips, leaving them reddened and bruised as that kiss grew hotter. This had Kagome moaning just lightly into his mouth but he'd pull away the moment she had done so. Confused blues would look up at Sesshoumaru who stared at her back, those ambers filled with a hunger for her and her only.

"Is this what you want…?"

His voice heard in the small amount of space between them, their lips still dangerously close. She'd shudder when his breath wafted over her quivering lips, Kagome's mind in a blank as she was not sure what he was asking. What did she want? Again their gazes met, ocean blues and burning ambers, Kagome searching his face for an answer. And while she held his face in her grasp, those thumbs would gently rub his cheeks, feeling the strong bone beneath and run them over his markings just below his eyes.

"Yes… And I want even more."

And that was the only conclusion she could come to. The feel of his lips on hers was something she had not ever experience in a life time. Sesshoumaru had ignited a flame upon that torch within, and that flame burned bright. This burning desire she had for the DaiYoukai grew greatly and it excited her to new lengths. She'd pull him in again for another kiss, resuming that same passion the two had for each other. Arms around her waist tightened, Kagome pressing her body close to Sesshoumaru to a point where she felt like she was going to fall right on top of him.

But all great things would come to end, and so did her dream as she woke up.

Eyes shot right open and Kagome lifted herself up upon elbows from her futon that took quite some time to do, feeling so heavy. After gathering her senses, she looked around the hut she was sleeping in and finally realized it was just a dream.

Just. A. Dream.

Kagome felt absolutely horrible. It felt so real… She wished it was!

Wait, no! That is not what she was supposed to be thinking!

She was married. She had a husband. And that was not Sesshoumaru, it was Inuyasha. Said hanyou was not in that hut with her, though. She took another look around again and noticed she was the only one alone in there, assuming Inuyasha was off to do whatever hanyou's would do that early morning.

Kagome groaned out in frustration, gathering her pillow and hugged it tight as she buried her face in it, the dream still plaguing her. Why must this happen to her?! She was so wide awake now, there's no chance of her falling back asleep. And it was morning which only meant that Aria was leaving soon. Another groan had left her lips and with much disappointment, she got out of bed and went to get ready to see Aria off.

After slipping on her traditional miko garb, she stepped out of that hut and inhaled deeply, letting that fresh air gather in her lungs and exhale out through parted lips, her eyes gazing up to eye the horizon as she sun was making its appearance. And not a moment too soon, she would be greeted by Aria who was now making her way to the miko, Kagome offering a small smile and a wave of the hand. Aria slid right on up beside Kagome and again she had that same grin of last night and Kagome was instantly reminded of yesterday's events, thus, she blushed heavily.

"Sabah Alkhyr, Kagome."

Kagome blinked slowly when those words rolled off of Aria's tongue so easily, her brows furrowing together in thought.

"I'll assume that means 'good morning'?"

Aria nodded her head. "Yes, it does. It is the Arabic language some of the humans and youkai use in my homeland to communicate with others."

"Ah, I see. Do humans and youkai live amongst each other in Egypt?"

Aria shook her head.

"Yes and no. Most youkai like to keep to themselves but recently we have found peace with the humans so some have chose to live among us in various areas throughout Egypt. We've decided to put our differences behind us since we all share the same beliefs."

"Ooh… Wow. I am curious to see Egypt now."

Aria offered Kagome a small smile. The two had once more went into conversation about Egypt again, Kagome fascinated about it all. And there the two walked along that dirt path, heading to one of the many exits of the village. They'd eventually take the same path Aria had arrived in and the moment they came to that hill, to Kagome's surprise, Sesshoumaru was already there as if he was waiting for something. Immediately Kagome tensed up and that dream she had when she slept was vividly replayed within her mind upon setting her eyes upon the Western Lord, hearing those words he gave her, those teeth biting her lips and… and…

"Kagome, your heart is beating so fast."

Aria speaking up to the female who gasped lightly at realizing that, the miko's gaze quickly casting downwards as she tried to calm her fast beating heart. Aria definitely knew what the cause of this was. It was because of Sesshoumaru! Well, it was partially the dragoness' fault, though. And she'd gladly take all the blame for that one.

"S-Sorry… I'm okay now." Will she truly be okay?

"I apologize, Kagome. I hadn't thought Sesshoumaru would actually kiss you." The dragoness giggled and Kagome blushed again, unable to even look at Sesshoumaru now that he gazed at the two of them in the distance. His eyes narrowed and hoped Aria would not tell her anything.

"I-Its okay. I'm… just happy nothing else happened."

Again her voice took that quiet tone, Aria hearing her clearly but wondered what she meant by that. Was she really happy that nothing else happened that night? Aria wasn't so sure about that.

"You looked like you needed some spice in your life, Kagome. It was only a kiss I'm sure the two of you will forget in time, yes?"

Kagome was having a hard time trying to forget that kiss. And that look Sesshoumaru gave her right after it ended, too. His eyes held such softness within them; she didn't think it was possible.

The two would now draw near Sesshoumaru upon that hill, the three of them gazing at that rising sun in the distance.

"I believe it is time to take my leave."

She'd turn to Kagome and Sesshoumaru by then, bowing her head before the two of them. Kagome offered a small smile to her newest companion but Sesshoumaru still kept his narrowed gaze upon her, even as she stood and met her golden gaze.

"Sesshoumaru, please. Don't be like that! You know it was all fun and games."

"This Sesshoumaru has had enough of your games." Again growling at the dragoness in which she'd just pout at him.

Kagome giggled lightly at the two, finding this quite amusing even as the dragoness was leaving. Aria would now stand before Kagome with open arms and when Kagome saw this, a bright smile would grace her lips and she'd lean in to give Aria a hug. Aria hugged Kagome back, her golden eyes shooting up to stare at Sesshoumaru as she grinned and he'd growl at her again. Damn, if only he had not met this foul dragoness.

The two would pull away and before Aria would say anything else, she'd lean in to whisper rather quietly in Kagome's ears that had the miko gasping whilst Aria had again stared at Sesshoumaru with a rather victorious look in her eyes. What the hell did she just tell her?! Sesshoumaru missed it entirely more so because he was so annoyed with the looks Aria gave him.

"I shall return in one month, Kagome. Hopefully all goes well with your training."

Kagome nodded her head again and smiled at the youkai before her.

"Thank you, Aria-chan. And be safe."

"Of course." Re-affirming her words with a nod.

After departing from Kagome, she would look to Sesshoumaru now, his gaze icy cold and Aria just laughed lightly.

"Sesshoumaru… Take care of Kagome for me. She could probably use another one of your kisses to make her feel better."

Kagome immediately blushed and gazed down hard at her feet, not even daring to look at the DaiYoukai. But Sesshoumaru would just grit his teeth at her, wanting nothing more than to keep her quiet but Aria dismissed him with a wave of her hand.

And soon that dragoness would make quite the distance between the pair and once she was in adequate range, again that swirling aura would pool around her feet then slowly scale upwards in the shape of a sphere. Once her body was enveloped in that spherical aura, they could sense the massive amounts of youki within the darkness and that sphere grew bigger and bigger. Kagome just stared in amazement as the orb shattered once it reached its peak, now revealing that large black dragon from yesterday. She'd watch as the dragon spread out its massive wings, feeling the winds kick up and not a moment too soon, Aria would take flight.

The dragoness leapt up off of the ground that caused the earth to shake violently after lifting off, Kagome stumbling at her spot and nearly fell over but the DaiYoukai was quick to catch her. Her back came in contact with Sesshoumaru's front and she'd be steadied on her feet when Sesshoumaru's hands grasped at her shoulders, keeping her still when the dragon took off.

And there the dragon went, Kagome hearing those strong flaps as the beast began to ascend high into the clouds and return to her homeland. A loud roar was heard in the distance, the sound dying out when the dragon was no longer near.

"Wow…"

Wait a minute! Kagome immediately stood upright and backed away from Sesshoumaru with a blush since she was leaning on him the entire time, her gaze quickly averted as she could not look at his face right now. Poor girl was far too embarrassed.

"Ah, thank you."

Sesshoumaru just gazed at Kagome with a curious stare once hands returned to his sides but soon he'd begin to approach Kagome who stood there and came within arm's reach of the woman. Kagome saw him move and lifted her head slowly to find the DaiYoukai so close, she immediately eeped in surprise when he gazed hard at her with that same hard pressed stare. She wasn't so sure if he was angry or annoyed from that look he gave her, though. What did he want? And why was her heart beating so fast again?

"Miko."

This had Kagome perking up quickly, nearly flinching as she was addressed by the male before her.

"Y-yes, Sesshoumaru?"

"What did she say?"

Kagome blinked slowly. What was he referring to? Ah! He must have meant the whisper Aria gave her after their hug. Did Sesshoumaru actually miss what was said? It seems that was the case because he wanted answers from her. This had Kagome beaming at Sesshoumaru with a wide smile and he had to refrain from growling at her… Again. Kagome's hands clasped together in front of her and she simply stood there as she decided not to tell him. Sesshoumaru was growing impatient.

"Answer me."

"No."

Sesshoumaru could feel his eyebrow twitch just slightly in annoyance, teeth gritting tight yet again.

"I will give you a hint. It's a nickname that you seemed to enjoy being called when you were younger."

Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed when he heard her words but when he realized what she was talking about, he nearly widened his eyes the moment he remembered that nickname he had dread the day to ever be called that again. Kagome saw his reaction and she couldn't hold back the fit of giggles she went into, Sesshoumaru snarling at her then but she seemed completely unphazed by it all.

"Miko, should you value your life… You will refrain from addressing this Sesshoumaru by that name."

"Oh? Is Fluffy-chan going to kill me?"

Sesshoumaru stiffened the moment that particular nickname left her lips, bringing back so many memories that he had kept locked up away within the far depths of his mind. And Kagome saw this when he froze at the spot, again her face lightning up in amusement when it was definitely true. Sesshoumaru felt his pride was currently being stomped over as if it was nothing by not only Aria but Kagome as well. He could see that wicked grin on Aria face now as she was returning back to her home in Egypt.

Kagome slowly backed away from Sesshoumaru who seemed to find no more words for her, thus Kagome grinning victoriously. Perhaps Aria was right; maybe she did need to spice up her life a bit. And that would start off by teasing Sesshoumaru, the Ice King! But how much could he bear? And Sesshoumaru was hating himself so much right now because when Kagome called him that, he could feel a teensy bit excited.

"You shall refrain from ever mentioning this… To anyone."

Oh ho! Had he accepted defeat so soon? Luckily there was no one around them at the moment, some villagers had awoke due to the departure of Aria some minutes ago but they were too far to hear the conversations between the miko and the DaiYoukai.

"Of course, Fluffy-chan. It is our little secret between us, ne?"

If only he could silence her mouth… But that would not end well for either of them. Amber eyes bore hard into the beaming face of Kagome and just watched her but his gaze had fell down to her lips that held a soft smile. Those same lips he had claimed the night prior. Never had he once thought of ever kissing this female but to his dismay, he actually found it pleasant. She was not just a human, either. She was a miko. A miko of high status and that brought her far higher than just being an ordinary human.

Kagome watched Sesshoumaru with a questioning stare when he seemed to go into thought. What was he thinking about?

"Miko."

Again she was addressed, blinking up at Sesshoumaru when their gazes met once more.

"Have you seen that mangy half-breed?"

Was Sesshoumaru looking for Inuyasha? What for? Kagome frowned then, having remembered the argument she had with him yesterday and assumed that was why he wasn't here this morning or anywhere at his usual spots. She'd shake her head to his question.

"No, I have not."

Sesshoumaru heard that tone within her voice, assuming that argument may have been the cause of why he was gone for so long. Either way, Sesshoumaru said nothing more, turning on single heel and made his way into the forest that was just at the outskirts of the village.

Was something the matter?

Kagome did not know.

"If you see him, tell him to not bother me. I will be heading to a shrine this morning I will return in the afternoon."

Sesshoumaru kept on walking but she knew that he heard her. Again she would sigh and turn to gaze at the horizon ahead but soon she'd be off to start her training. She had to be vigilant in this task!

~X~

Kagome had managed to make it to the shrine that morning but the entire trip there had her venturing far into her thoughts. She could not find Inuyasha anywhere and a part of her was starting to worry. Was she too hard on him yesterday? But he deserved it. He needed to learn when she meant it that she meant it.

But was he okay?

She hoped Sesshoumaru would find him safe and sound.

Kagome now found herself before that large flight of stairs that led up to the shrine and she took one deep breath before taking her first step. Kagome carried herself to the top and before her was the large building and there stood in front of those large doors were two females who bowed their heads to Kagome, as if they were expecting her arrival. Well, they did tell her to be here early, right?

A small smile was offered to the two before bowing her head respectfully; soon standing upright and they would open the door for Kagome, leading her inside the shrine.

And there she would begin her duties.

She joined three other women in a ritual dance, laying the many lost souls to rest and led them off into the spiritual realm. And she was giving it her all with this dance as she was determined to get stronger. She could feel the spirits all around her, her aura flaring as if she was drawn to the spiritual plane as the moments would pass and the other three women who had joined her would just watch her with amazement.

When the ritual ended, Kagome had found herself in the room again with the other three maidens and she blushed lightly when they had been staring at her.

But soon they would now move on to the prayer in which Kagome had been led to a room where there held a statue of Midoriko herself, the powerful priestess in her time. Kagome remembered all of what she had done and bowed her head in respect before the statue.

And here Kagome would be left alone to pray before the statue but one of the women had left a particular rosary for Kagome to use as guidance. The rosary would be wrapped around her left hand and other hand would join it, clasping her hands together now as she closed her eyes began to pray.

The woman began to concentrate as her heartbeat slowed, blocking all sounds out from the outside world. Her mind would relax and again her aura would flare, becoming visible as it outlined her form in pink and purplish hue. Her aura pulsed in time with her heart beat and soon she would reach the state of Zen.

Kagome's eyes shot right open and she found herself afloat in a vast open area of nothing but the clouds and stars in space. And for some reason, she was not scared. Kagome knew exactly where she was—The Spiritual realm. She glanced down her front, seeing she still wore her same miko garb but her body glowed a bright pink light, surrounding her and enveloping her very soul. It felt warm. Was this all of her spiritual energy? It was an enormous amount! But before she could do anything else, she'd sense the presence of those spirits flocking to her like a moth to a flame. They'd appear in small spherical orbs of light, circling around her when she got close and Kagome's eyes would view each one, sensing their energies when they surrounded her. There was so many!

And not a moment too soon, Kagome began to move as if she knew exactly what she was doing. A stream of light made up of those spirits was now following her as she walked along the clouds beneath her feet, leading on those spirits. In the distance, those blue eyes caught a shining star in the open space before her, twinkling in the night's sky. A hand would rise when she had presumed she traveled quite the distance, her finger went to reach out and touch that twinkling star far up above and the moment she had done so, a blinding light would flash the immediate area, Kagome shielding her eyes from the bright light.

The light died down and now what stood before her was a portal that emitted warm light from within. The swirling vortex would be about Kagome's height, if she were to guess. And all those spirits that had been following her would once again encircle her form, as if they were saying goodbye and they'd all disappear into the portal before her.

Was this the afterlife?

She was so curious to see what was on the other side… But she knew that if she took one step through, there was a chance she may never return back to her body.

The girl stood there and clutched the collar of her haori, a small smile gracing her lips.

"Well, well… If it isn't Kagome."

Kagome's eyes widened greatly when she heard a familiar voice within that void, deep and smooth as can be. She'd quickly whip around and there before her some few feet away would be Naraku.

And he was not in his usual youkai form, either. He took his more acceptable human appearance—his long hair was tied up in a high ponytail, wearing a dark blue haori and hakama with a white colored kosode over the haori that had green floral patterns stitched upon the material.

Eyes widened when she saw his face and for some reason, he looked like he was at peace. And he gazed at her with a softened look, something Kagome hadn't ever thought she would see in her life time. It was no wonder that he would take a shape while in the spiritual realm because he was once an all powerful youkai during his final moments of his life. When their gazes met, Kagome could sense no ill will towards her from his eyes but she'd blink when he began to smirk.

"To think that you've managed to grow this strong in a small amount of time to reach here… I'll have to admit, I'm impressed."

Small amount? It was far longer than that But… Was Naraku actually giving her praise? Her once sworn enemy, praising her... She just had to be dreaming. But she would continue to gaze at him even as a small smile formed on her lips.

"Thank you."

And silence befell them again, Kagome sensing something near when she turned her head to glance over her shoulder behind her, seeing that portal close behind her. The twinkle of light would again take spot in the skies above, shining bright like a star.

"You seem somewhat content, Naraku."

Kagome would slowly turn around to gaze upon the male's spiritual form again in the distance but Naraku would soon close that distance between himself and her, holding her gaze.

"Why do you not pass on?"

Obviously the woman was referring to the afterlife. It was her duty to guide these souls there, was it not? Naraku was no different. But he shook his head once he stopped just within arm's reach of Kagome, his gaze moving from her face to gaze up at the starry sky above, filled with constellations and various forms of light and stars that formed one huge galaxy. Kagome's gaze followed his own to the sky above, catching the various stars and shooting stars in the distance.

Naraku would tilt his head downwards to once again have his gaze settle upon Kagome and he shook his head.

"No… Not just yet."

Kagome tilted her head back down to meet Naraku's gaze again and confusion would wash over her face, wondering why he did not wish to move on just yet. Was there something he wished to do? He did not look like he hadn't any last grudges… Then again, this was Naraku. Who knew what else he wished to do before he went on.

"The spirits within the realm have been restless lately. Do you know why, Kagome?"

When he inquired her, Kagome just gazed back with that confused look on her face, unsure of what he was getting at. Why were the spirits restless? She began to ponder about it, her gaze going down to her feet that was hidden within those clouds but then she'd remember Aria's words. Eyes widened and head whipped up to stare at Naraku in disbelief.

"The planetary alignment!"

Naraku would nod his head.

"This is the perfect time for these wandering spirits to escape here and return to the world of the living. It is futile, however, as only the strong would manage to make it out."

She couldn't believe it. So what Aria said was true! Kagome suddenly felt something creep up her spin when nervousness took her over, whipping her head around as if she was looking for someone. Naraku knew exactly who she was looking for.

"Do not worry. He is not here."

Kagome looked back at Naraku and gave her a re-assuring look. Did he know who she was looking out for?

"He is in the far deeper levels of this realm… Already planning to make his escape."

Wouldn't this be the perfect time to stop Anubis?! Actually, could she even survive in scaling the deeper depths of the spiritual realm? Maybe if she had more power, it could be possible.

"I would not advise in attempting to head there. You will only lose the connection to your spirit and body and won't ever return."

A warning she should definitely heed.

"Wait, do you also plan to escape, Naraku?"

To her surprise, Naraku shook his head.

"No, I do not. I have long accepted my fate and you, Kagome, have helped me to see the error in my ways when I departed the land of the living."

Kagome frowned and shook her head.

"But… But it wasn't your fault! You were being manipulated by the jewel's demon. If anything, you do deserve a second chance."

And to Kagome's surprise, Naraku smiled. It was a small one but a smile nonetheless! It was actually comforting to hear from his once sworn enemy, yet, he just could not see her as one anymore. He could hear the concern in her voice but as he had mentioned earlier, he would accept his fate for what he has done.

"Your words are comforting but you and I both know that should I revive, there are many who would be after my head."

He'd smirk at the miko before him but again, she'd frown. Well, he was right but Kagome was actually willing to forgive him and all his wrong-doings should he change from what he used to be.

"I suppose so…"

Naraku had once more looked her over, eyeing her form and her attire and noticed she had aged a bit the last time he had seen her. Had it been that long? He'd gaze at her face and it was uncanny how much she resembled Kikyo. His eyes widened upon realizing something he had long forgot and Kagome saw this look, tilting her head in question at the man before her.

"Is there something wrong, Naraku?"

He blinked slowly when he looked at her and began to think if he should be telling her this. He knew it would no doubt cause some problems for her and the hanyou, well, more so for her overall because she had made a commitment. Inuyasha on the other hand… Made somewhat of a commitment. Definitely not as much as Kagome, however.

Should he tell her?

That's when Kagome dared to reach out and touch the arm of Naraku and to his surprise; he could feel the everlasting warmth coming from her and her aura. Remarkable. She had this much power at her disposal already… How long had it been since he had died? Time flow here was so endless; it was hard to keep track of it. He caught her gaze again and it there was that concerned look of hers, Naraku knowing he could not lie to a face like that. Well, here goes nothing…

"Your hanyou has been making quite the frequent visits to Kikyo as of late."

He watched her intently when he said those words and Kagome's eyes widened, unable to believe what she had just heard.

"Wh-what…?"

"So it seems… You did not know." Especially after seeing that reaction.

Kagome felt something prod at her heart, a pain that was foreign to her. The last time she felt this pain was years ago, when that jealousy was there for Kikyo who still held Inuyasha's heart.

And it seems she still did.

But Kagome had long accepted Kikyo's love for Inuyasha and no longer resented her, the two having become 'friends' somewhat. But why was she suddenly feeling this way?

Naraku watched her and he could see the inner turmoil she was now going through. Hell, her aura began to flare incredibly and she had to calm down or else she would lose the connection she had to here from the world of the living.

"Why…?"

Her voice was so quite yet Naraku heard her as her head tilted downwards, her bangs hiding her face.

"Why…?!"

She wanted to cry, she wanted to yell and she wanted to scream… Why was Inuyasha visiting Kikyo? At least she knew the reason why Inuyasha would disappear some times. He had to be heading off somewhere, perhaps to some other shrine and made a connection with a miko or a hoshi… Connecting to the spiritual realm to see his beloved Kikyo. But if he wished to do that, why did he not ask her? She would have done it without question but to think he'd be doing this behind her back. There had got to be a reason for this.

Naraku saw her aura calm down a bit but something felt off. Kagome's heart waned as she would process it all, unable to take anymore and began to fall. Eyes drifted close when she thought she was going to come in contact with the 'ground' but to her surprise, she was caught in the arms of Naraku who then knelt down and kept her steady.

"Are you alright?"

She was not so sure she will be.

Her head tilted upwards and those eyes just gazed at the starry night sky through half-lidded eyes, Naraku gazing at her face and took note that her aura was beginning to die out. It pulsed every now and then and should she stay here any longer, she may not be able to return to her body. She exerted too much of her power but that was entirely his fault.

"I apologize, Kagome. It was something I had not wished to tell you because I know that you care for him."

And it only took him this long to realize that.

Again, silence came from her but he saw her eyes and her head move, tilting downwards to look up at his face and offer a small smile to him.

"Thank you… For telling me, Naraku."

"But you must return to your body at once. Your light… It is fading."

And Kagome knew this as she could feel the connection slowly slipping away by each passing second, the girl finding it hard to concentrate any more.

"There is so much I wish to ask but I suppose that could be saved for the next time we meet."

A nervous laugh followed after her words but soon she'd focus upon returning to the land of the living as her hands folded over her heart, her eyes drifting close and Naraku could now see that her light would soon fade along with her spiritual body as he held her.

"Take care, Kagome."

Kagome felt her world begin to envelop her form in a bright light, feeling herself being pulled from one world and slip into another…

She'd swiftly return back to the land of the living.

Kagome slowly opened up her eyes, feeling quite weak. She was laid out upon the floor before the Midoriko statue, groaning lightly as she pushed herself up but only managed to lift herself up on her elbows. How long was she in the spiritual realm for? She felt absolute drained of her energy… It was a miracle she managed to make it back.

Those eyes were half lidded, her vision blurry but she could see various objects around her that seemed to glow in an ethereal light. It seems the connection to her body and her spirit was still being put together. Is that why she felt so weak? Kagome pushed herself up onto her elbows, her body feeling like jell-o. Could she even manage to make it out? Kagome crawled her way to the door that led out of the room, her hands weakly gripping onto the bamboo and slid it open as much as she could and again she began to crawl, making her way out.

She'd only make it around the corner from the very room she was just in, now using the wall as support as she managed to get up on her two feet. The wall would be used to hold her up as she leaned against it, sliding her body along the wall after each step she took. Her vision was trying to adjust but it was still quite blurry as she gazed down that hall way. The hallway looked endless, like a never ending path with only darkness awaiting her at the end. But she kept going, moving her legs as much as she could. And soon a flash of sliver would be seen in the distance, the miko unable to make out the figure that had arrived and head towards her way. That figure drew closer and she caught a glimpse of ambers upon their face, Kagome recognizing them as none other than Inuyasha. Had he come for her?

Kagome could no long muster any strength to stand anymore and so, again she would stumble forwards but she was caught in the arms of that hanyou. She could feel his strong grip as she was lifted up into his arms and then carried off to the exit of the building. The three women from earlier would surround her and the hanyou, apologizing for not checking up on her in time but Inuyasha would growl at all three of them in which they cowered and backed away from the pair. Well, she had finished her duties here at the shrine, so, without another word to the three women there, she would again be carried off, feeling the warm breeze hit her face as she could feel herself descend that large flight of stairs. The warm sun above would shine its rays through those clouds in the sky, Kagome feeling her strength coming back to her slowly. Her vision cleared up a bit after some minutes and when she looked up at her savior, a smile had spread across her lips.

Her hand would slowly raise and fingers would lightly touch the side of the face of who she did not expect for it to be… That being Sesshoumaru. He'd allow for her to touch his face, feeling her warm fingers stroke his cheek in such a tender manner. He did not look at her while he carried her, still keeping his gaze ahead.

"Seems you have mistaken me for someone else."

And yes, she knew that it was not Inuyasha.

He'd expect for her to pull her hand away upon hearing his voice and making it known to her who was really carrying her but to his surprise; she did not remove her hand. Instead, she'd let the back of her fingers gently rub beneath his chin and he'd hear a very faint giggle leaving her lips.

"Thank you, Fluffy-chan."

Kagome would feel a rumbling just beneath his chin, more so closer to his throat and that could only meant he'd growl at her. She'd smile up at the DaiYoukai once her hand returned to her lap, now taking the time to rest as the exhaustion had finally caught up to her. Her eyes drifted close and leaned against Sesshoumaru as he held her with utmost care, the two of them heading back to Kaede's village.

And little did she know it; the girl had fallen asleep within the DaiYoukai's arms.

What an afternoon this turned out to be!

~X~

A blood red sky graced the feudal lands once the sun began to set in the distant horizon and Sesshoumaru was still carrying that miko who fell asleep in his arms. It had only been a few hours since he left the shrine but for some reason, he was making this trip far longer than it needed to be. He walked at a slow pace and he did not know why. Her sleeping face seemed to put him at ease each time he glanced down at her, hearing the small, little breaths she'd take from her parted lips.

Those very lips he had kissed the day before.

Damn that blasted Aria. He was going to have her head for this. But should he be putting the blame on her or the miko? All of these thoughts had him growling out again in absolute annoyance and the vibrations would resonate though his chest and that was enough to bring Kagome awake from her slumber. Sesshoumaru heard her heart beat pick up, followed by a soft moan that left her lips. He nearly stiffened at the sound but it he kept pressing forwards. The miko's eyes would slowly blink open, her vision blurred again but she'd soon focus upon the vision in front of her, glancing up to find Sesshoumaru's angelic visage.

Was she dreaming?

No, she clearly wasn't because she could feel the warmth coming from that male who carried her and it felt nice. This had her smiling and again, she would giggle to herself. Sesshoumaru heard this and spared the miko a quick glance downwards to see her awake and again, giggling for reasons unknown.

"And what is so funny?"

"Mm, it is nothing, Fluffy-chan."

Kagome was expecting a growl of annoyance or a rebuttal but nothing came. Had he already began to ignore it? Or had he long accept his fate, knowing full well that the miko was not going to let this down?

"You've been gone quite a while."

Kagome blinked slowly, gazing at him in question and wondered what he was referring to but then she'd feel the sun's rays in the distance as the warmth spread to her face, her head tilting and gasped out in surprise as she realized how late it was. Was she out for that long? Sesshoumaru took note of her reaction and it seems she had no idea how long she was gone for and was highly curious… What was it that had her occupy up so much of her time?

He knew of the miko's duties but as to what extent… That was foreign to him. He did not care yet why was he so interested in knowing?

Actually, the better question was…

Was Sesshoumaru worried about her? He had to be, right? Or else he wouldn't have come to check up on her. But she was thankful that he did and this is what had her smiling so brightly up at him. Sesshoumaru saw that smile and felt something spark within him that he could not figure out what it was but it felt nice. What was this feeling?

"Sorry. Seems I was in the spiritual realm a bit too long…"

Ah, so that's why. But for her to emerge out from the realm in such a weakened state, she'd have to have stayed in there for hours. Did she not know of the consequences if she stayed?

Silence befell them once more yet she did not mind this, nor did Sesshoumaru himself as he continued to carry her. To be honest, Kagome was fully awake now and she could walk on her own now but being carried this way felt nice and she was certain Sesshoumaru knew of this as well but he had yet to put her down. She'd use every bit of this moment to relax along the way.

But that would soon come to an end as Sesshoumaru stopped right in his tracks after another half hour of walking. Kagome turned her head and seen that they had arrived in Kaede's village. And the moment that pair arrived, Sango and Miroku would be running towards them with a concerned look on the taijiya's facial features.

"Kagome-chan, are you alright?"

She had managed to catch up to the two and to her surprise, she was not with Inuyasha. In fact, she was highly concerned why Sesshoumaru was even carrying her!

Sesshoumaru just glanced at both the taijiya and the hoshi with a deadpan expression but he'd eventually set Kagome down with such grace upon her feet, surprising both Kagome and Sango herself. Once Kagome stood there upon the top of the hill, Sesshoumaru gave her one last look over and he'd soon depart from the two stunned women and the hoshi who just watched as he'd leave the three of them without another word.

Uhh… what?

Sango quickly looked back to Kagome after Sesshoumaru left and was staring at the miko in disbelief. Kagome looked back at Sango and laughed lightly with her hands rising.

"I-it's not what you think!"

But Kagome knew Sango was not having any of that.

"Wh-what… What happened with you and Sesshoumaru? And where have you been?! It's been hours since you had left to visit that shrine and we thought you'd be back in the afternoon!"

Looks like Kagome was going to have some explaining to do.

Miroku was just as equally as curious and worried when he approached Kagome, standing beside Sango as the two of them looked to the miko.

Oh boy.

"We were looking for you but neither you nor Inuyasha was around."

When Kagome heard those words from Miroku, she frowned and again she felt that weird, sharp prodding feeling at her heart, remembering Naraku's words from earlier today. Kagome knew what Inuyasha was doing but why had he not come back yet? It was already getting late and she was getting worried. Sango saw that worried look Kagome gave and knew what she was thinking about.

"I do not know where he is… You two had an argument again, didn't you?"

Yes, again.

That was probably the third one this month alone and yesterday's was definitely the biggest.

"Don't worry Sango-chan, I'll be fine. And I'm sure he will be too, where ever he is."

"Do you want me to talk to him? I'll set him straight—"

Kagome shook her head.

"No, its fine Sango-chan. I told him I needed my space and he is giving it." But was it worth? She had only hoped that whatever he was doing, it wasn't too dangerous.

The three of them had made their way back to the village safe and sound and she was immediately lunged at by Rin with the little girl hugging her waist tightly. Was Rin also worried for her?

"Kagome-sama! Are you okay? You were gone for a very long time!"

Indeed she was because those eyes held much of it when she gazed up at Kagome's face.

Kagome would bend down just lightly to pat atop her head, giving the girl a small smile, re-assuring her that she was alright.

"Yes, I am, Rin-chan. I was just so into my training today so I'll be fine."

"Oh okay... Good thing you are alright! Rin was so worried!"

That had Kagome thinking. Was she worried to a point where Sesshoumaru went to look for her on Rin's behalf? Or did Sesshoumaru come on his own accord? Kagome was not so sure but for him to go to such an extent to find her and bring her back, even stepping foot onto those holy grounds and found her in such a weakened state... How did he manage to know where she was anyway? She was certain she didn't say where the shrine was either.

Kagome peered up from her spot and looked around, Sesshoumaru nowhere to be seen. Where did he go?

Either way, Kagome needed to relax so she was now heading off into her hut after departing from Rin, giving her another pat on the head and Sango along with Miroku would be right behind her. Once she got settled within her home, she'd explain what had happened just some hours ago.

Kagome would mention about the ritual, the prayer and venturing off into the spiritual realm for quite a long time. Everything went well, save for the last part. Miroku nodded his head as he understood whilst Sango sat there slightly confused. Miroku would explain to her, having told her that venturing into the spiritual realm was no easy task and should she have stayed any longer than she would have, she may have not returned to her body at all.

But Kagome re-assured them both that she was fine and made it back in one piece, thanks to Sesshoumaru.

"…Why was Sesshoumaru-sama even there?"

"Maybe… he was worried for her?"

When Sango answered Miroku's question, the two of them now stared hard at Kagome and she gazed back with a quick shake of her head.

"Seriously guys, I told you! Nothing happened between us."

Sango's eyes narrowed.

"I saw that look he gave you… And he has never given that look to anyone."

Miroku heard this from Sango but he blinked slowly, wondering what she was talking about. Was there something amiss? Too bad the monk was clueless and Kagome knew exactly what Sango was talking about. Yes, that look that was near similar to the one he gave her the night prior and it had her heart beating so fast… Not even Inuyasha looked at her like that.

And speak of the devil, he shall appear.

"Kagome!"

The hanyou bursted right into that hut and those amber eyes bore hard into Kagome with concern over his face. He'd immediately place himself beside her and grabbed up her hands, looking quite worried after he had heard the news about her today.

What a load of bullshit.

She offered a small smile to the hanyou and gave a nod of her head. "It's okay Inuyasha, I'm alright."

The way Inuyasha showed concern for her being paled in comparison to Sesshoumaru.

"Where have you been?"

And that was when it was Sango's and Miroku's cue to take their leave from Kagome's home. They'd bid their farewells to the husband and wife, Sango leaving one last look for Kagome but they'd be off, now leaving the newlyweds to themselves.

When they were gone, Inuyasha would answer her, "I'm sorry Kagome. I went to see Toutousai."

And again that sharp prodding pain was felt, poking at her heart.

What a god damn liar and he was lying right in her face.

But she would allow this for now, letting him go on with this story of his.

"Ah, really? How is he doing?"

A smile gracing her lips when she gazed at Inuyasha, awaiting his reply. And there she saw it. He hesitated.

That good for nothing child. Anger was swelling up hard from within her but she did not dare let that show upon her face. She kept herself sane, still smiling happily at Inuyasha. She was so composed, her aura did not flare as angrily as it was supposed to, easily keeping that in check.

"He's doing great."

"Ah, that's good to hear. Why did you visit him, anyway?"

Now let's see how far he was going to take this.

"Well, since I agreed to go with you to Egypt, this may be a perfect chance to see if I can get Tessaiga an upgrade, ya know?"

Her brows rose slightly in surprise upon hearing his words, hearing that lie just leave his lips as if he had conducted this right on the spot. Oh, he was good.

"That's actually a good idea, Inuyasha… Perhaps I should start working on my bow and arrow skills, too."

Then she'd rise to her feet with Inuyasha watching her closely, watching as she'd head off to likely prepare herself some food for dinner. Inuyasha stared hard at her back, a slight pained expression gracing his face as he felt so horrible for lying to her. But he could not tell her where he had been… Not just yet. Inuyasha quickly stood then and he'd begin to approach Kagome as she tied up her hair into a bun. When he close enough, Inuyasha's arms would wrap around her waist and he'd bury his face into her dark locks of hair while pulling her close so that her back met with his chest.

He was doing the same shit again she was tired of.

"I'm sorry, Kagome. Sorry for everything that I have done to you lately."

Her blood was literally boiling right then and there but she would amazingly keep her cool. Lips parted and she'd sigh out lightly, Inuyasha having heard this and wondered what the matter was.

"Are you alright, Kagome?"

No, she was not alright. She was fucking livid.

"Mhm, I'm okay Inuyasha." Tilting her head to gaze upon his face with a small smile. "I see you have been heeding to my words and giving me my space… Thank you."

He offered her a small grin but soon the girl would lightly tap his nose.

"Now go relax while I get dinner ready."

"Alright."

And his arms would remove from her waist, now letting the girl go and prepare themselves dinner as he'd relax upon that floor mat.

Hell hath no fury like a woman scorned.

~X~

Throughout the rest of the week, Kagome managed to enhance her skills even further, even going on a pilgrimage and traveled from shrine to shrine to shrine. She was making her name well known throughout those lands, hell; even some of the youkai was starting to fear her too. And thus, she became quite confident that she knew she was going to succeed in keep Anubis at bay along with the other shrine maidens in the next coming weeks.

She was given support by many, thus encouraging the girl to keep up with her training. She was going to be vigilant.

Now the very last day of the first week, Kagome would be found within a mountain ravine all by herself.

It was better that way, anyway.

She was honing her bow and arrow skills that afternoon, her arrows whirring through the air in that bright pink light and her target?

The Gokurakuchou.

It seems they did not want her trespassing on their lands and she was going to leave but it the leader knew of her. The miko that was slowly becoming famous upon those lands. And thus, they wanted to kill her.

Oh dear.

Kagome was now fending for her life but this wasn't a difficult task for her. Each arrow was shot with utmost precision, striking down any and every harpy that came close. She'd dwindle down that pack to a mere twenty or so but she was starting to tire out. That hot summer sun above would beat hard onto her skin, the sweat forming upon her flesh as it would roll down her slender neck.

Will she even make it?

The leader took note of her exhaustion and grinned widely, the harpy screeching out and claimed their victory as a talon would point at her.

"Look! She is tired out! She only has one bow left… Go forth my men and kill her!"

Came the screeching voice of the leader.

And all of those birds would screech out in unison, charging right for the female who fell onto one knee, panting for much needed breath.

She had just one arrow left. This one arrow she had… She would have to make it count but how the hell was she going to strike down all of those birds with one single arrow?

No.

She'd be damned if she died here today. After how much she had improved over the past seven days? Like hell she would!

With burning resolve, Kagome focused all she could into her body, that aura flowing out of her as she pushed herself to the edge.

She crouched down low with her left leg bent at the knee and her other knee pressed hard into the ground, loading up that arrow and pointed it in the sky with her teeth gritting tight as that arrow was pulled back.

She was like a living turret with only one ammo remaining, going into 'siege mode'.

Her body began to glow in that pink and purplish hue, her body growing so hot that steam became visible as it seeped from her shoulders. Her power so great that her clothing began to tear from how much she was putting out into her last attack. She'd hold that position for long seconds, essentially counting down within her head.

10. 9. 8. 7. 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1.

And that bird had its jaws agape, looking to crush Kagome in its massive jaws when it came so close but with a shout from the top of her lungs, she let loose that arrow onto her enemies.

"Judgment arrow!"

Her bow and arrow would glow immensely, giving off a blinding light as it reshaped into an entirely new bow and arrow. She could feel the immense power and warmth coming from her new weapon that gave off a sacred look and when that arrow flew from her fingertips, an explosion of light would soon follow that held the color of her aura. It whirred through the air so fast that those birds were frozen in time.

What the hell did she do?

In an instant, time would resume again and all of those remaining birds would immediately disappear in an explosion of pink light, becoming entirely purified from the inside out. Her arrow had exploded in the air in the far distance, having reached as high as the earth's stratosphere and exploded like one bright pink firework.

She did it!

And that was all she could even muster because the moment she regained her senses, she was all puckered out.

Kagome fell back onto the dirt covered ground, clutching that newly shaped bow in her hands but after some seconds, the bow began to glow and shatter into a million pieces of light. And soon the particles of those birds she had defeated began to rain down on her tired form, feeling the warm droplets fall upon her near tattered clothing.

…Did she just learn a new technique?

Kagome immediately sat upright and gazed at her dirt smudged hands, soon closing them into fists and she had the biggest smile upon her face. Happiness and joyfulness swirled within her heart. She learned a new technique! She began to cheer herself on, pumping those tiny fists of hers into the air repeatedly.

"Yoshaaaaa!"

Well, it seems Sesshoumaru had nothing to worry about this afternoon.

He was standing atop a cliff high above the ravine Kagome was currently training herself at, keeping just enough distance so that she would not sense him near.

Sesshoumaru had indeed followed her. Why? He did not know.

But what he did know is that Kagome was growing with each passing day and soon enough, she would be one powerful miko that no human or youkai would dare to face.

And he would be the first to witness it.

~X~