InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Not So Young Anymore ❯ Chapter 5, The Beginning of the End; Rob Zombie ( Chapter 5 )

Disclaimer: If I owned these two wonderful anime's, would I be as penniless as I am? No, I'd be rolling in dough. And if I owned then do you think they would be the same as they are now? Hell no! It would be a major hentai because of all the smex I would stick in it! DUH! So no, I do not own InuYasha or YuYu Hakusho… No matter how bad I want to (pouts)

 

-+-+-+ Chapter 5, The Beginning of the End; Rob Zombie +-+-+-

 

Hiei watched his enemy silently; burgundy orbs narrowed as anticipation of his opponent's next move tensed his muscles. His fists tightened on Shuuketsu's hilt. Sweat beaded on his forehead and the hiyoukai let his senses spread out to keep him from being surprised.

 

A flicker of red had him jerking around and blocking a long, thorny sword that pressed heavily down on his own. “Good block, Hiei-kun.” A silky voice cooed.

 

“Good hit, Shippou-nii-san.” Hiei commented back.

 

Dancing emerald eyes stared into his own ruby orbs before disappearing just as quickly as they had appeared.

 

Shippou circled him slowly, looking to find any weak spot in the hiyoukai's stance.

 

Finding one, the youko raced forward, only to pause mid swing.

 

Both youkai's bodies turned to living statues, gem colored eyes searching out the overpowering youki that had asserted itself arrogantly. The fox visibly relaxed when he recognized the energy. “He's gotten a lot stronger since we last saw him.” Turning his bright eyes onto Hiei, Shippou let his Thorny Sword shrink down into its beautiful passionflower form. The flower shriveled into itself and went back to its seed form. He stuck the seed at the base of his skull and locked his hands behind his back. “Let's go greet our yorozoku friend, shall we, Hiei-kun?”

 

The moment they entered the village, Hiei zeroed in on Kagome's position. She had her hand curled under her chin and stared with wide blue eyes at a far away spot, as if waiting for something.

 

InuYasha was growling and grumbling behind her, arms stuffed into the billowing sleeves of his haori. “What tha fuck is he doin' here?”

 

The miko smiled softly and turned towards the hanyou. “Oh, don't be so stingy. You know he's gotten better and you two just fight out of habit.” She gave him a tender look before turning her attention to the twirling whirlwind that was heading for them at a surprising speed. “But… I wonder why Kouga-kun's here too…” She trailed off and covered her face with her arm. The wind whipped her long tresses around her head.

 

Hiei's large eyes widened even more (if that was possible) when a demon leapt from the mini-tornado and landed gracefully on the ground. He was a rugged looking demon with long onyx black hair tied up in a high ponytail. The tips brushed the base of his fluffy brown wolf tail, which twitched and curled happily. He had a strong build with corded muscles and rock hard biceps, triceps and long clawed fingers. He had high cheekbones and a small nose with thin, pupilless sky blue eyes. His grin was arrogant, like he knew his strength and knew he could easily take out any that opposed him. Traditional furs and thick human armor covered his tanned body, accenting his roughish looks.

 

Kouga turned his bright eyes on Kagome and his smirk switched to a pleasant smile. “Ah, Kagome-chan! How is my koibito doing these days?” He questioned her and stepped over to her with a leisurely grace that surprised the tiny hiyoukai.

 

The miko blushed at the name but accepted the wolf's hand. She jerked him forward and hugged him as tightly as his armor would allow. “It's good to see you again, Kouga-kun.” She mumbled against the cool steel.

 

The yorozoku leader grinned broadly and hooked a single arm around Kagome's shoulders. “So, ya missed me?” He watched as the priestess leaned back and rolled her eyes playfully.

 

“Kouga-kun…” She trailed off when he placed a clawed finger against her lips.

 

“I got a few things I wanna say before you get to that.” He winked before making his way over to Kaede's hut and entering it without invitation.

 

Shippou winked down at Hiei. “That's Kouga of the Wolves. He's the Eastern Wolf Tribe's current leader.” He explained and followed the ookami's lead.

 

Once everyone was situated in their designated spots, with exception of Kouga who chose to sit on the opposite side of Kagome, the other occupied by a grumpy hanyou. He cleared his throat to get the rooms attention. As the inu-tachi focused their eyes upon the regal looking wolf, he let his arrogantly sensual voice float over them. “It's been nearly ten moon cycles since we last saw each other.” He started and winked at Kagome playfully. She blushed.

 

“And I've been on my own quest, gathering the re-shattered Shikon no Tama to help my koibito out in my own way.” He continued and ignored the angry snort on the other side of Kagome and the astonished gasps of the rest of the dog's pack. “So far I've got seven shards—” Here he pulled out a small leather pouch from his armor and handed it over to Kagome. “—and with what I can see hanging from Kagome-chan's neck, its nearly complete.” He gave a long, tired sigh. “I am well past the mating age and—” He was rudely cut off by a snarling hanyou.

 

“I thought I told you to back off, ya mangy wolf!” InuYasha growled over Kagome's head. Her left eyebrow twitched angrily.

 

“Shut up, dekunobo, I need to finish so I can get back to my pack.” Kouga snapped in irritation. It surprised the rest of the group who watched as InuYasha faltered. “As I was saying before I was so rudely interrupted, I need to settle down and start producing cubs to help my line to keep strong.” He sighed softly and looked at his hands. “And I know full well that I am unsuccessful in acquiring my first choices affection…” The yorozoku leader turned pained blue eyes onto Kagome who bit her lip softly. “So I am going to mate with Ayame and have her bare me strong sons and docile daughters.” He straightened his back and turned to Kagome, hope shining in his eyes. “I'm not as dumb as some people think, Kagome-chan. I would be a very attentive and caring mate… Don't interrupt me, please.” Kouga held up his hand to silence her. “May I have a single parting gift before I leave, Kagome-chan? Just so I know what I'm missing out on?”

 

The miko nodded her head and leaned forward, her lips gently pressing against his. Her fingers threaded in the thick hair at the base of Kouga's neck and let him control the kiss.

 

It didn't become passionate, like she had somewhat expected, and he didn't ask to venture into her mouth, but it was sweet and tender and held so much emotion she nearly cried. It broke her heart to know this could very well be the last time she would see the handsome wolf prince. She liked him well enough, he was one of the few who knew about her time jumping and she knew she could trust him to keep it a secret.

 

Kouga leaned back and let his eyes slid open. He gave a soft breath before giving the miko his signature cocky smirk. “To bad it can't go farther than that, Kagome-chan.” His eyebrow wiggled in a very Miroku-ish fashion. “I would have rocked your world. But I guess you'll have to settle for a second rate sex partner.” Giving a lazy shrug the wolf stood up and nodded his head to the rest of the group.

 

The ookami blinked in surprise when his bright blue orbs landed on the tiny hybrid that was seated next to Shippou. “So that's the source of that overpowering scent…” He murmured before walking over and crouching in front of him. “And who are you, gaki?”

 

Hiei narrowed his eyes angrily. “None of yo—” Kagome cut him off hastily. She didn't want Kouga to get riled up when he was acting so civil around InuYasha.

 

“That's Hiei-chan, Kouga-kun. He's a new addition to our group.” Her smile was soft and warm and loving all at the same time.

 

Kouga shrugged his shoulders lazily. “Okay.” Turning his eyes back on the rest of the group, the wolf prince made his way to the opening. “Stay healthy—” He gave a meaningful look to Miroku who scratched his cheek with a light blush. “Stay strong—” He nodded his head to Sango, who nodded back. “Stay alive—” He smirked at InuYasha. “Stay out of trouble—” Kouga snorted at Shippou. The fox smirked at him. The yorozoku's eyes landed and softened on Kagome's standing form. “And stay beautiful. Hopefully we'll meet soon. Be it in the present future, the far off future or another life, I bid you farewell for now.” His speech finished, Kouga pushed the mat out of his way and dashed out of the village.

 

Kagome's grip on the leather bag tightened and she sat down again. Opening it and upending it, seven glittering shards stared up at her.

 

“How many shards do we have left to find, Kagome-chan?” Sango asked her sister-like friend. The priestess pulled the nearly completed Shikon no Tama from around her neck and held it in the other palm. She gave a soft breath before cupping her hands together and allowed a small amount of her miko ki leak out and enveloped the Shikon, shards and all. Once the light died down, the miko opened her hands and stared, slack-jawed at the jewel.

A small space was left for a single shard to slide into. “One…” She whispered. “One shard left…” She tore her eyes away from the tama and gave the group a brilliant smile. “All we need is just one more shard and we'll be done!” But her joy almost instantly deflated.

 

No one noticed besides the young hiyoukai that always watched her with silent ruby eyes. As the rest of the group cheered and talked animatedly about who might hold the last piece of the shattered gem, Kagome seemed to curl into herself and lose a bit of her natural happiness.

 

When asked why she was leaving, Kagome easily said she was going to her time to tell her family the good news. Everyone but Hiei bought the lame lie. He watched as she left the hut, tears gathering in the corners of her blue, blue eyes.

 

As she ran, Kagome couldn't help but cry silently. This is it… After we find the last shard and I fuse it with the Shikon… I'll be gone from the Sengoku Jidai forever… Don't the understand that? She raced into the clearing that housed the Bone Eaters Well and collapsed beside it, her sobs growing in volume. I'll leave behind everyone and they… They're celebrating… Gods I'm pathetic. The miko moved her legs in front of her and wrapped her arms around the bent knees.

 

She cried softly. Why am I so selfish? Just because I don't want this to end doesn't mean everyone else is eager to get this whole Shikon business done and over with. But… Shouldn't I be allowed to want something I can't have, just because…? I've done so much for this world… Saving it from Naraku's evil reign and stopping any evil youkai from getting a hold on the Shikon fragments… Her thoughts trailed off and Kagome let her head rest tiredly in the curve of her arms.

 

“I don't want to go yet… I'm not ready…” She whispered to the wind. Kagome blinked back tears and sniffled quietly. “Why can't I have both…?”

 

She didn't notice Hiei step from behind a tree close to her and watch her with his wide red eyes. He stepped forward and flared his youki slightly to announce his arrival.

 

Kagome's head shot up and she turned her teary blue-gray eyes upon him. “Hi-chan…?” She whispered before hastily wiping her face with the sleeve of her strange haori. Sniffling, the miko turned her watery silver eyes on him and forced a tired smile on her face. “What are you doing here? Aren't you suppose to be celebrating with the others…?”

 

The child walked slowly towards her, eyeing her wearily. “I wanted to be with you…” He mumbled.

 

The priestess's bottom lip trembled and she held her arms out for him. The hiyoukai raced forward and pressed his face into her neck. Kagome's arms locked around him and she pulled her legs up around him. “At least someone does…” She sobbed and cuddled the tiny demon tightly. “I…” She gave a deep, shuddering breath. “I don't want to find the last shard…” She started and loosened her hold on the toddler-sized demon.

 

Pushing him back, Kagome pressed Hiei against her legs and carded her fingers through his soft hair. She let her pent up tears fall and watched as the little boy pressed his pudgy hand against her cheeks to stop the flow of tears. “Why are you crying?” He asked her.

 

Kagome's face contorted as she sobbed harder. “Because… When we find the last shard…” She broke off and circled her arms around Hiei and sobbed into his shoulder. “I'll have to leave.” She forced out and cried loudly. Her tears soaked through the hinezumi haori that InuYasha had given him for training so hard with his fire ki and the white scarf Kagome had worn but gave to him because he liked it.

 

Hiei's eyes widened. Leave? She can't leave! He curled his arms around her neck and clung to her. “Then don't find the last shard!” He squeaked out.

 

Kagome gave a watery chuckle. “We have to find the shard before some demon does, Hi-chan… And when I put the shard with the Shikon…” He pushed back, away from her, and stared into her sad, sad stormy eye.

 

“Well then… Find the last shard but don't put it with the Shikon! That way, we have every shard but the jewel's not whole so you can stay here, too!” The miko sniffled softly and stared at the youkai in awe.

 

He's pretty smart for such a little guy… Instantly, an idea popped into her head. Her eyes lit up and Kagome stood, Hiei clutched tightly in her arms. “Hi-chan… I want you to tell InuYasha that I'll be back in two weeks, and that I'm sealing the well so he can't drag me back. Tell him I promise that I'll be back in two weeks… And don't kill each other.” She giggled and poked his nose lightly, playfully. She set him down before throwing her severely depleted yellow backpack over the lip of the well and throwing her legs along with it. “Two weeks, Hi-chan! I'll see you then.” Winking at the confused hiyoukai, Kagome threw her other leg over and pushed off from the ledge and floated down the time portal.

 

Once safely on her side, Kagome dug around in her bag and retrieved the three sealing scrolls Kaede-baa-chan had taught her to make. She shimmied up the latter and heaved the large planks over the top of the time portal before plastering the oofuda on the cracks.

 

The wood glowed for a second and Kagome gave a pleased sigh. Two weeks I'll be in my time, staying with my family and being with my friends, then I'll go back to the Sengoku Jidai, find the last shard and spend three months with them and then… Her thoughts tapered off and the miko jogged up the short set of steps. Checking to make sure no one was on the shrine grounds and thanking any Kami above at her good luck, Kagome raced from the well house and towards her home.

 

She kicked off her shoes and smiled brightly at the inside of the familiar family setting. “TADAIMA!” Kagome called out. There was a loud bang and Kagome blinked in surprise. Her brothers surprised face appeared around the kitchen corner before a jaw-cracking grin split across his handsome face.

 

“KAGOME-NEE-CHAN!” He cried out and raced towards her. Souta's arms wrapped tightly around her shoulders. Easily picking her up, the taller boy swung her around and let her settle down on her feet. “Your home! How long are you staying this time?”

 

Kagome hugged Souta, tears gathering in her eyes. She took a deep, calming breath and walked into the kitchen, her brother's arm wrapped around her shoulders. “Hey okaa-san, jii-chan! Guess what!” When her mother smiled softly at her and asked her what, Kagome continued. “I'm staying for two weeks. After that, I'm gonna be gone for a few months…” Her voice trailed off as a wonderful aroma filtered into her nose. “ODEN!” She cried out, tears of happiness gathering in her eyes. “Oh, kaa-chan! You made ODEN!” She hugged her mother in joy before plopping down in her seat in a very unladylike way.

 

The miko turned to her family and grinned broadly at them. “Are you gonna eat with me?” She asked hopefully.

 

After the happy dinner and an animated talk with her family, the raven went upstairs to take up her mother's offer of the warm bath.

 

“Oh, how I've missed you, bathtub…” She moaned and let her head loll against the pristine porcelain. Her eyes fluttered closed and she lazily threaded her fingers through her hair before sighing. Kagome moved around so she could lay her arms over the side. She rested her head on her folded arms and let her eyes slide open to half-mast.

 

Two weeks straight with my family… Then it's back to InuYasha and the others…And the last shard… Tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. I don't want to leave them, though… I wish I could bring them with me to this side of the well, but they wouldn't be able to function properly… InuYasha would go mad without those trees he's so used too… Sango-chan… Well, she'd be antsy all the time. I guess Miroku-sama might be the only one to adjust quickly… He's one of those go with the flow kind of guys… That and the short skirts would keep him busy. At that thought, Kagome giggled and sloshed back over to lie on her back. The water's temperature made her shiver so she stood up and got out.

 

Once she dried off and ambled her way to her bedroom did Kagome fall into a deep, well-rested sleep. She woke up at the crack of dawn, like InuYasha had drilled into her pretty little head. Stretching lazily, the miko swung her legs over the side of the bed and stood up shakily. “Whoa…” She mumbled sleepily and made her way to the bathroom.

 

The next fourteen days passed like a blur to Kagome. So much had happened, and yet, so little. Her friends were ecstatic that Kagome was feeling better, but were saddened to know she was staying with her cousin in Akita, Japan and wouldn't see them for a few months. Houjo made a few passes at her and asked her out on a few dates that she was able to attend. She was so happy to have assimilated so easily to her era again but knew she couldn't stay for a long period of time until the jewel was back together.

 

So, with a heavy heart and a long hug session, Kagome said she had to leave for the airport to get her friends off the Shrine grounds. They asked for her cousin's number but with quick thinking, Kagome said he was one of those traditional Japanese men who wanted to live off the land and communicated through mail. They said they would write and Kagome felt bad that she wouldn't be able to answer, or even see their letters.

 

After the left, Kagome gathered the rest of her supplies and headed out to the bone eaters well. After the left, Kagome gathered the rest of her supplies and headed out to the bone eaters well. Once the coast was clear, the miko sprinted towards the small hut and slid open the door. The evening sun danced across the old wood of the portal, and the newer sealing planks, the oofuda's still stuck in place.

 

Walking lazily down the stairs, she let her eyes jump from the well to the eroding walls. We need to fix up this room… She thought distractedly and set her large yellow backpack on the ground, along with a blue cooler and two fat trash bags. She reached for one of the three scrolls. Pulling it off, along with the others and removing the heavy planks, the miko saw the well glow and smiled. It's unsealed. Good. She dropped the heavy boards next to the seemingly bottomless pit.

 

Leaning over the lip, Kagome waited a few minutes. A pleasant warmth issued from the well and the priestess smiled. “Hey, InuYasha. Miss me?” She giggled and leaned back so the scowling half demon could jump from the bottom of the well.

 

“Don't ever do that again, wench.” He grouched and Kagome smiled brightly. Sighing, InuYasha gave the room a quick once over, sniffed to make sure no one was around and quickly wrapped his arms around her shoulders and hugged her tightly. “Scare me half to death, why don'cha.” He rested his cheek on her head, his claws threading slowly through her hair.

 

Kagome blushed heavily but hugged the hanyou back just as tightly. “I'm sorry, InuYasha… Its just, when we find the last shard…” Tears gathered in her eyes and the inu pushed her back to wipe the salty liquid from her stormy orbs.

 

“Hey, don't cry. If the jewel sends you back to this time, I'll find you here. I promise.” He threaded his fingers with hers and the priestess smiled.

 

“Really?”

 

“Yeah, of course! Who else can protect your endangered ass as well as me?” InuYasha grinned at her, his fangs glinting softly in the florescent light situated in a corner of the well house. His puppy ears twitched and he stepped away from her, golden eyes glowing in the dim light.

 

The door slid open and Souta hopped down the stairs. “INU-NO-NII-CHAN! You're here! How are you? Is it true that there's only one shard left? That's so cool! Are you gonna live with us after you guys find it?” He stared hopefully at the confused hanyou.

 

“Now Souta-kun, don't bother InuYasha-kun.” Mama Higurashi reprimanded as she stepped lightly down the stairs and hugged her daughter tightly. Tears gathered in her soft brown eyes. “I'm so very proud of you, Kagome-chan. Come back to us safe and sound, okay?” She kissed her daughters cheeks tenderly before moving back to let Grandpa Higurashi get his turn.

 

“My granddaughter… How much honor you have brought to this shrine. I am one lucky grandpa.” He gave her a wink before hugging her tightly. “Have fun and don't go overboard on your exorcisms.” Kagome giggled softly and turned her large blue-gray eyes onto her solemn brother.

 

“Souta-kun?” She asked tentatively.

 

His bright chocolate eyes locked with hers and a huge grin broke across his face. “You don't know how hard it is not to tell my friends I have the coolest sister ever.” He wrapped his arms around her shoulders and gave her a soft hug. “Bring me back something cool, okay?” Kagome nodded and clung to her little brother.

 

“I will, I promise!” She assured him before moving over to InuYasha, who was getting his own `Be safe's' and `We'll miss you's'.

 

The two quickly hopped through the time portal and landed on the other side of the well, all of Kagome's baggage right beside them. “Why'd you bring so much junk, Kagome?” InuYasha asked as he leapt out of the well, Kagome safely on his back, her other items held tightly in the hanyou's hands.

 

“Because I want to have a nice picnic before we go searching for the… last…” Her voice trailed off as a familiar energy signature speared through her miko senses. “InuYasha…?” She whispered.

 

Said half demon set her down on the ground and gave her an angered scowl. “Guess who came to fuckin' visit us…” He stomped away, her things still clutched in his hands. She followed after the miffed demon, chewing worriedly on her bottom lip.

 

They were no more than twelve feet from the well when two blurs, one black, the other red, raced towards the duo and tackled Kagome to the ground. “KAGOME-CHAN!” Shippou's exuberantly cried out.

 

Hiei clung to her stomach, his face buried in her belly. “You are back!” He squeaked out.

 

Kagome giggled and hugged the two tightly. “Yes, I'm back! Did you miss me?” The two nodded quickly, each voicing their disdain at having to stay with the irate hanyou.

 

Once the children had settled down and were walking beside the taller teen, Hiei clutched in Kagome's arms, Shippou holding her hand, did the kit start to talk about the shard. “Guess what, Kagome-chan.” He said, his dancing green eyes filled with glee.

 

“What?” The miko asked and smiled down at him.

 

“Guess who's waiting to give you the last shard.” His grin broadened and Kagome chewed her bottom lip in thought.

 

“I have no idea, Shippou-chan. Who is it?”

 

He smirked at her. “You'll see! Come on, we gotta get to the Goshinboku so you can see who it is! And no cheating, don't use your powers! I want it to be a surprise!” With that said, Shippou dragged her off further into the woods, InuYasha grumbling after them.

 

As they neared the Sacred Tree, Kagome's eyes widened. Wha… How did he get the last shard? Her thoughts cut off as they broke through the underbrush and stepped into the small clearing that held the Goshinboku.

 

A lone demon with cascading silver hair and deep gold eyes stared at her blankly. Maroon stripes ran across his cheeks, a pale blue crescent moon curing in the middle of his forehead. The billowing white haori and hakama, tall black boots covering his feet, accented his pale skin.

 

The Great Lord Sesshoumaru watched as the tiny miko paused and stared openly at him. He stood up fluidly, his mokomoko-sama twitching slightly. “Miko.” He said, his voice deep and sensual. “Come.” He turned and walked away.

 

“Fuck no, Sesshoumaru! Kagome is—”

 

“InuYasha… I'll be right back. Stay here with Shippou and Hiei, okay?” Kagome followed after the stoic TaiYoukai quietly. She fell in step next to the quiet youkai and waited for him to speak.

 

Deeming a spot a few yards away from the three demons, Sesshoumaru paused and turned towards her. His hand slipped into the armor on his chest and Kagome straightened her back.

 

A glittering piece of the Shikon no Tama was pulled from his armor and held between his pointer finger and his thumb. “This Sesshoumaru believe this is what you are looking for, ningen.” Kagome held out her hand expectantly. Sesshoumaru pulled the shard closer to his face and examined it. “Why is it you are looking for the shards of the Shikon, miko?”

 

Kagome stared at him for a moment before sighing softly. “I broke the jewel nearly three years ago, and now I'm searching for all the pieces to bring it back together and keep people like Naraku from taking it and using it for evil purposes.” She said solemnly.

 

The TaiYoukai snorted softly. “So it was you who gave Naraku his power…” He trailed off and locked his dark gold eyes with her surprised stormy ones.

 

She sighed softly and crossed her arms over her chest. “I… I guess so…” The two were quiet for a moment. In that time, Kagome worried that Sesshoumaru wouldn't hand over the shard without a fight.

 

The raven nearly jumped out of her skin when he pressed the dark lavender sliver against her upraised palm and let his hand drop. “I do not need something so trivial to raise my power.” He simply stated and started to walk away.

 

Wow… He's so stoic… Like Hi-chan, sort of… At that thought, Kagome's eyes widened. Who will take care of Shippou-chan and Hiei-kun when I'm gone! She turned and raced after the slowly walking youkai. “Sesshoumaru-sama! I have a favor to ask of you!” She said and slowed down to his pace.

 

The silver-headed male looked at her out of the corner of his eye. “And why would This Sesshoumaru give you that favor?” He quipped.

 

Kagome took a deep calming breath. “I don't know… But I was hoping you would… See… Shippou-chan and Hiei-kun need someone to take care of them after I'm gone…” At that, the female paused and swallowed thickly. “And I don't think InuYasha is a good example for them, or Miroku-sama. I need someone who can handle both a mischievous fox and a temperamental hiyoukai… And the only person I can think of to take care of them and train them is you, Sesshoumaru-sama.” She turned watery blue eyes onto the bored-looking demon. “Would you take in Shippou-chan and Hiei-kun as your wards?” Kagome clasped her hands in front of her chest, lips pouting.

 

Sesshoumaru stared at her for a moment, his golden orbs curious before he continued walking. “This Sesshoumaru will think over it.” Kagome smiled.

 

That's the best I'm going to get right now. She thought and jogged after him.

 

The two continued walking in silence as another thought hit Kagome. “Sesshoumaru-sama? How old is Rin-chan?” She tilted her head to look up at the impossibly tall demon.

 

The TaiYoukai mulled it over before replying. “Eleven.” He said.

 

Kagome scowled suddenly. “Oh, man…” She whispered and bit her lip. “Do you know anything about human girls and their `time of the month'?” The miko peered at him curiously.

 

Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed. “What is this `time of the month' you speak of.”

 

Her face went a nice shade of red. “Well… When a human girl reaches a certain age… She… Uh… Goes into… heat…? And starts to bleed from… Down there…” She paused, face going redder. “It'll happen once a month, too. So, just giving you a heads up. If Rin-chan come to you, crying about bleeding… down there… You'll know what she's talking about. It's called a period.” That out of the way, Kagome sped up and jogged the rest of the way out of the forest.

 

Kagome turned and smiled brightly up at Sesshoumaru as they broke through the forest's underbrush and entered the flat land just before the village. “I'm going home in three months… And I was wondering… Would you like to stay and eat with us? I brought a lot of stuff because InuYasha, Shippou-chan and Hi-chan all eat more than they should, so there's enough for you and Jaken-san and Rin-chan.” She looked at him imploringly.

 

Sesshoumaru continued walking without answering. The miko sighed softly but trotted after the long-legged demon.

 

They soon entered the village and headed towards Kaede's hut, found InuYasha pacing the front with Kagome's gear at the entrance and Hiei, along with Shippou, practicing with their swords. The dynamic duo turned and watched as the two made there way to the small house before quickly putting away their weapons. They raced towards Kagome and tackled her again. “Your alive!” Shippou screamed in joy. “Can we eat now?” His green eyes glowed hopefully.

 

The miko giggled softly and ruffled his soft red hair. “Yup.” She looked up at Sesshoumaru. “Are you going to join us?”

 

Before he could answer Rin raced out of the hut and latched onto Sesshoumaru's legs. “Sesshoumaru-sama! You are back! Rin has missed you!”

 

“Rin.” He stated boredly and the ningen girl blushed.

 

“Gomen nasai, Sesshoumaru-sama. I have missed you.” She corrected herself and the TaiYoukai nodded his head slightly. “We are not leaving yet, are we?” She pouted up at him, her big brown doe eyes turning to liquid chocolate. “Please, can we stay?” Rin clasped her hands in front of her chest and gazed at the stoic youkai imploringly.

 

“Hn.” He said and looked at Kagome. “Where are we dining, miko?” Sesshoumaru said more than asked. Rin cheered happily while Jaken, who had been standing on the sidelines, scowled angrily.

 

Everyone gathered by the Goshinboku after a slight struggle with who would carry what and settled down on the large red and white checkered picnic blanket.

 

For the past three years, Kagome had brought the inu-tachi hamburgers and cheeseburgers and french-fries and many different junk foods for them to try. They all agreed cheeseburgers were their all time favorite (besides InuYasha). Though each had their favorites that Kagome would always bring to them as treats.

 

She had nuked the burgers before coming down the well since it was nearly four hours after she had gotten them. “Here you go, Rin-chan. It's good, so eat up.” She handed one of the warmer sandwiches to the grinning girl who happily bit into it. She hummed happily and continued to eat it.

 

After handing out the burgers, Kagome pulled one of the last two out of the bag and held it towards Sesshoumaru. She watched his nostrils flair slightly before snatching the burger from her and taking a large bite. He chewed for a moment before nodding his head ever so slightly.

 

He likes cheeseburgers… Sweet! Kagome thought before biting into her own.

 

The group ate happily, chatter dancing around them happily. Once the cheeseburgers were consumed, Kagome had Hiei drag (more like carry it over his head) the blue cooler to her. She easily opened the lid and pulled out the frozen treats. “Here's some ice cream, guys.” She announced and handed the first one off to Rin again. The little girl happily downed the tasty treat. Next she gave the second to Hiei who bit a large chunk from the top greedily. He cuddled up against her side and munched on the rest of his cone before looking up at Kagome imploringly.

 

“Sorry, the last one goes to Sesshoumaru-sama.” She winked at him and handed off the last ice cream cone. Again she watched the TaiYoukai with a critical eye and saw he liked ice cream too.

 

The miko handed off her own frozen treat to the pouting hybrid and watched everyone silently. I'm going to miss this… She thought before roughly pushing the thought and all its relatives out a window.

 

Hiei eyed InuYasha's half-eaten ice cream before smirking at Shippou. The kitsune gave in quick nod and grinned broadly at the hanyou. “Oi, InuYasha! What's that over there?” He pointed behind the half-breed.

 

When the demon looked over his shoulder, Hiei raced forward, snatched his ice cream and dashed away. InuYasha gave an enraged snarl and chased after the hybrid.

 

Kagome barely batted an eyelash and dug around in the bright blue cooler. “Anyone want soda's?” She asked and everyone gave positive answers. The miko handed out the desired drinks and found Sesshoumaru liked those as well.

 

“Kagome-sama?” The miko blinked and looked up at him. “May I…?” The monk gazed at her hopefully.

 

“Oh! Of course!” Kagome pulled out a large bag of Beef Jerky to the houshi. “Here you go, Miroku-sama! Hope you enjoy that, it's nacho flavored this time.”

 

The raven's amethyst eyes brightened. “Delicious.” He mumbled and tore open the bag before handing out pieces to the rest of the group.

Hiei snatched his piece from the monk's hand and settled beside Kagome, white stains of ice cream littering his cheeks and nose. He blinked up at the giggling Kagome curiously before scowling when she pulled out one of her wash rags and cleaned his face. Once he was free from any drippies, the hiyoukai stuffed the jerky in his mouth and chewed.

 

The days passed quickly, much to fast for poor little Kagome, and soon she was in front of the well, tears pouring from her eyes. “I'll miss you all!” She cried and snuggled her head under InuYasha's chin. “I don't want to go, but I know I have to… Promise you won't kill each other while I'm gone?” She leaned back and stared at the group, giggling softly.

 

Kagome stepped back and crouched down. She held her arms out for Hiei to race into. He snuggled his nose against her cheek. “I promise I'll find you again, Kagome… I promise!”

 

Shippou hugged her tightly. “Me too! And I'll train real hard to be the best kitsune ever!” Kagome hugged the two tightly before releasing them and moving back to stand beside the well.

 

“Be safe everyone.” She said before clasping her hands together and letting her miko ki fuse the last shard of the Shikon no Tama with the larger chunk. A brilliant white flash blinded the group before they blinked their eyes and spied the empty space in front of the Bone Eaters Well.

 

“She's gone…” Miroku whispered before turning his plum eyes. “Sango-sama… I wish to marry you and take the surname Higurashi… Is that alright with you?”

 

The tajiya sobbed and hugged him. “Of course, Houshi-sama!”

 

-+-

 

Kagome's eyes shut tightly and she winced as light flooded her vision and warmth spread throughout her body. When the light died down, and the miko blinked open her eyes, she saw nothing but pink. “Wha—?” She mumbled, worried stormy orbs flickering around the magenta room. “Where am I?”

 

“There you are! Took you long enough!” A tinkling voice jerked Kagome from her worried state. The voice giggled before a heavy wind blew and a woman with long black hair, deep magenta eyes and dressed in ancient miko garb stood in front of her. She leaned forward on the balls of her feet and grinned happily at the confused raven. “Hi, Kagome-chan! My name's Midoriko and you are in the Shikon no Tama. Time has paused so we can have this little chat, okie dokie?”

 

Kagome blinked slowly. “Huh?”

 

“Silly, I need to talk to you so here you are! And you completed the Shikon so now I can chitchat with you properly! I've been so lonely, but now that you're here, I'm not so lonely no more.” Midoriko grabbed Kagome's hands and dragged her over to a tree that seemed to jump out of no where. Once the two were seated, did Kagome begin to come back to her senses.

 

“You're the Great Miko Midoriko? Uh… No offense… But—“ The bubbly prietess cut her off.

 

“You thought I would be all high strung or serious, didn't you.” The other miko winked at the confused female. “Nope, I'm just a hyper sixteen year old! No more, no less.” She giggled again. “OH! That reminds me, I have to tell you something really important! When you get back to your time, you will find your true love, since InuYasha isn't that!” Midoriko grabbed Kagome's hands again and rubbed her knuckles against her cheek. “Aw, true lovey-wovey! Wish I could have that!” She snickered before shoving Kagome away from her suddenly. “Now GO! You need to wake up, silly-nilly! And remember: TRUE LOVE!!”

 

With that, Kagome's world turned dark and she fainted.

 

-+-+-+ End Chapter Five +-+-+-

 

HBWD's Corner: Eh, a little anticlimactic but I think it's cool how I strung all the characters together. ROFL! Anyway, please review and tell me how much you loved/hated it! I love reviews! (waves)

 

Preview of Next Chapter:

The demon landed in front of her, his back facing her. He was clothed in black and since it was so dark outside, she could barely make out his silhouette besides the bright splash of white cloth wrapped around his neck. The sword he had used to kill the tora youkai was coated in their crimson blood, the tip dripping slowly. But the thing she noticed about the blade was the blue and red gem embedded at the hilt.

 

That's Hi-chan's sword…! Oh no… Please, don't… Fear gripped the miko but she steeled herself and narrowed her eyes at the demon. “I want that sword. Give it to me… It doesn't belong to you.” She held out her hand, demanding the blade be place in it silently.

 

She watched silently, fearfully, as he turned his face to gaze at her out of the corner of his burgundy eyes. Kagome's own stormy orbs widened. “H…Hi-chan?” She whispered before fainting, her body thudding softly on the ground.

 

Translations: Shuuketsu - end/close. Hiyoukai - fire demon. Shippou-nii-chan - older brother Shippou. Youko - fox demon. Youkai - full demon. Youki - demon energy. Yorozoku - wolf demon. Haori - short kimono-like garment used as a jacket. Koibito - lover. Miko - priestess. Inu-tachi - the dogs group. Shikon no Tama - Jewel of Four Souls. Hanyou -