InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Not the Only One ❯ Broken Heart ( Chapter 28 )

 

{{I do not own Inuyasha or Yu Yu Hakusho. However, my YYH boxset is all mine, and I can rewind Kurama's 'rose whip!' whenever the feeling takes me!}}

 

Dear readers,

Prelims are over, but it's not back to normal! I've still got two dissertations to write, a creative folio to create (funnily enough!), a boyfriend to pamper, and I've recently been reinstated in my job.

I've always said I would never abandon this fic, and I always keep my promises. But recently, I've been finding it difficult to get in the mind set to write fan fiction. My English teacher is really stretching me beyond my limits at the moment, and as a result, I realise what a long way I have got to go before I can call myself a good writer. My confidence has taken a few hits recently concerning creative writing- it is still the thing in the world that gives me the most pleasure, but at the same time I'm finding it harder and harder to be happy with my work. It's not writer's block, more a writer's wobble!!

I hope you all understand and continue to support this fic, as you have all been so wonderfully doing.

And remember, no matter how long it takes, how fickle my muse or aching my eyes, (tehee!) I will always, ALWAYS, update.

That being said, I have decided this will be my last update until June. I know, I know! But it's only 3 months, and I'd much rather deliver quality fan fiction than hurried-and-riddled-with- mistakes chapters. Fan fiction was the one thing that allowed me to escape the stresses of school, but at the moment, I'm too exhausted to even enjoy it. I never wanted this to be a chore, so I think it's best I focus on my pressing commitments, and then return to you when they are taken care of!

You will get an update in June- kitsune promise! I have many more ideas for this fic, as well as another 3 full length fics and short stories planned!

Thank you for reading, and enjoy.

 

Know the lingo!:

Seikouki: Holy light energy- can only be accessed when wanting to change the world around you. While usually taking 40 years to master, Sensui only took 6 due to his 7 personalities.

Arigato: thank you

sugoi: amazing

hai: yes

gomen: sorry

chikushou: shit/dammit

 

 

Chapter 28

Broken heart

 

Koenma had been face to face with one of the strongest men in the world, Toguro the elder, before declaring his damned fate. He had stood before Sensui, nearly stopping the Seikouki master from world destruction. But never, ever had the son of Enma felt his stomach drop so quickly, as if the floor of Rekai had given all the way to the Makai.

His eyes...almost like that of the bandit...

Koenma shook back his shoulders, wiping the dust from the heavy volume in his hands.

“Kurama, you know it is entirely against Rekai policy to give away such details! What on earth has made you think about such a dreary subject?”

He was gabbling fast, there was no denying it. Konema was so distracted he didn't even notice that he was flicking through pages while the book was upside down. Kurama swiftly grabbed the text, releasing it into the air, a slam signifying its contact with an opposite bookcase. Koenma watched it slide to the floor as a bead of sweat dripped from under his pink rimmed junior hat.

“I want answers, Koenma. And I'm not leaving until I get them”.

The little demi-god sucked furiously on his plastic blue pacifier, his eyes still unable to meet the avatar's. “I thought, Kurama, if you wanted to know of anyone's death, it would be your own! I don't understand how this 'matter' can have just suddenly started to bug you...”

The youth held up one hand, listing slowly with his fingers.

“Firstly, Botan visits, telling me to be careful, because Kagome has 'a lot ahead of her'. Then, the two of you depart the table at Yusuke's party, unable to meet Kagome in the eye thereafter. Botan drags you onto the dance floor, (despite that time you nearly broke her ankle dancing with her at Kuwabara's 16th and she swore she would never do it again) rather than sit with myself and Kagome. And finally, when Botan decided she was going to say goodbye, she hugged me as if I was near death- then scurried away without another word!”

“Come, Kurama!” Koenma exclaimed, finally looking up, “These details hardly confirm I know anything about Kagome's fate, or death or anything of that matter!”

“Koenma-sama, Koenma-sama!” the blue ogre blundered into the library, hoisting a banana yellow remote like a treasured trophy, “It's her! That dead miko you told us to watch for! She's returned!”

Koenma covered his eyes, whimpering, “Oh fiddlesticks...Jorge, you utter buffoon!”

Kurama clenched his fists, his crimson locks lightening in hue as his voice took on a gravelly pitch.

“I think you better start talking straight, Koenma”.

 

 

“Just one more time, Yoko, okay? One more?”

The kitsune rolled his eyes. “Kagome, you've been saying that for the past hour. Don't you think you should take a break? Or stop for the day? You have years to perfect your power!”

The miko grinned, staring down at her palms, stained with blood like Indian ink. “I know. But this is the first time I've ever learned anything useful, all by myself! Well...” Kagome coughed hastily, “I know you've been helping me, but you get what I mean, right?”

The bandit flexed his fingers with a sigh. He had broken them five times, and they didn't feel any different from usual. It had taken Kagome a while to manifest her new powers correctly, but with Yoko's patience and her perseverance, the miko was now able to fix broken bones in record time.

“It's only because broken fingers is one of the most common injuries our group has,” Kagome explained, as the kitsune quickly drew the dagger's handle backwards against the joints of his fingers. She still winced at the crunch, while Yoko didn't even blink. “I'll need to work on bigger breaks obviously, but...”

The kitsune was still fascinated by the pure, purple healing light emitting from the whorls of the miko's palm. It was only because he had been observing it so intensely that Yoko realised the light was now coming in sharp bursts rather than a steady flow. There was a pulse of power from the rose necklace, making Yoko light headed for a second.

“Kagome?” The miko's hand began to shake, and her soft brown eyes darkened to almost violet. “Kagome!” Yoko gasped, grabbing the girl as her power disappeared, and she flopped forward like a puppet cut from its strings. “Kagome, Kagome!” The kitsune shook the miko to no avail. He lay her on his lap, glad that she had managed to heal his fingers before her power had ran out. Her energy was exhausted, much like the girl herself.

She's worked herself unconscious...just so she can help others...

Yoko shook his head bemusedly, tucking the miko's head under his chin as he scooped her up in his arms. As he bounded away, Kagome's soft voice repeated in his head- I was going to break my pinky, but...

The kitsune cursed under his breath, holding the girl closer to his chest as he leaped into a nearby tree, the very one where Kagome had once told him to 'stop'.

She's something else....never have I met a female like her. Just as well, probably, otherwise I'd be less sane than I already am.

Yoko settled comfortably against the bark, wondering about manipulating a reviving plant. But then he saw the pale complexion of Kagome's face, the dark circles under her perfect eyelids, and decided against it.

The kitsune took one of Kagome's hands in his. She wasn't cold, which was a good sign, and her breathing was normal. He'd let her be, for now. Yoko absent mindedly stroked the miko's hand, so little compared to his. He examined the smallest finger of her hand, almost half the size of his own, and thin as a twig.

How reckless she is!

But I shouldn't be so surprised, really. The first time I met her she was knocked out because she'd took a blow for Shippo.

The kitsune worked a lock of midnight hair around his finger, the colour and thickness a complete counterpoint to his own colouring.

And there's a long list of stupid things that she's done...if she'd caught me on a bad day, I could have killed her for stealing back the shikon...then there was the girl she saved from bandits, while endangering herself...

Yoko frowned, teasing the miko's hair through his claws, carefully not to cut any. Plus there is the extremely long list that she created before I met her...no wonder Inuyasha struggles to protect her.

The kitsune blinked. Since when did I start making excuses for Inuyasha?!

 

 

Koenma was caught. He depended on Kurama, more than ever now that Yusuke was no longer spirit detective, and although he could call upon Kuwabara from time to time, it was Kurama who got the job done. On the other hand, Koenma couldn't disclose such high class information- though knowing the kitsune, it wouldn't be long before he worked out everything for himself. Botan's warning echoed in his brain as cold, calculating, green eyes fixed on Koenma's face-

“If he ever finds out you knew all this…you'll be one dead demi-god…”

“You'd better follow me,” the small ruler sighed, leaping up to snatch the yellow remote and bop Jorge on the head, “Bad ogre!”

The kitsune felt his heart rate intensify as he followed Koenma into his office. A thousand possibilities whirled around his head, and Yoko was silent, thirsty as Kurama for knowledge that was soon to be revealed.

The demi-god clambered onto his padded chair, plunging them into darkness with a snap of his fingers. An image was frozen on the oval screen, a jumble of red, white and purple pixels. Kurama stood a little to the side of Koenma's desk, his arms folded and his face expressionless.

“By law, I'm not allowed to reveal anyone's fate that isn't connected with spirit detective work,” the miniature ruler told him, propping his elbows upon some piles of papers, “This video is one of many I have had recorded, in order to keep tabs on a certain dead miko...I think you'll see why...”

“Kikyo?” Kurama interjected.

“Hai.” Koenma hit the play button, and the colours swirled together before settling into an image.

“Inuyasha...” the avatar muttered, his fingers clenching against his chest. The hanyou was running at high speed, so that his figure was merely a blur between trees and foliage. He eventually came to a stop, looking around the forest he was in desperately. Kurama frowned. His face...he's perspiring heavily, though that run was of no extraordinary speed...

“How long has he been running?” the avatar asked, without turning his head from the screen. Koenma started at the strange question. “I-I'm not certain. I'll rewind it...”

And so the video was rewound, the hanyou leaping backwards through the trees, through a clear expanse of grass, to a little cave. The hanyou made a jerking gesture before re-entering the cave. What was that?

“I guess not long...” the demi-god's voice interrupted Kurama's analysis of the footage. He pressed play, and the two of them watched as the hanyou emerged. The camera zoomed in, and his face was consorted as though in pain. His ears were also twitching feverishly, and he punched the hard exterior of the cave with a gruff grunt. Koenma continued to suck on his pacifier, his thumb hoovering over the fast forward button. Inuyasha's actions here were of no relevance to him, but to Kurama they were intriguing.

Kagome and the others were in that cave. She told me that he had stormed out while she was unconscious.

Curious- he wouldn't normally leave her side when she was injured...

Correct. Now we may discover the reason why.

Now they were back with the forest Inuyasha. He dabbed at a bead of sweat with the long sleeve of his hitoe, his golden eyes darting around.

What is he looking for?

The dead miko, of course...

On cue, Kikyo appeared on screen, her dark eyes lifeless as coal. “Inuyasha.”

The hanyou turned quickly, his eyes wide and surprise etched on his features. “Kikyo...why did you call me here? In daylight? I thought...”

“Inuyasha.” Kikyo cut him off without emotion, and the hanyou immediately shut his mouth, his forehead creased in confusion. “Inuyasha, it is taking too long. You did not acquire the shards?”

“Kagome got injured...we had to come back. But we'll be able to return tomorrow, and get them for sure!”

Kikyo looked unmoved. Meanwhile, Kurama felt as confused as Inuyasha. Yoko had not yet informed him about the clash with the scorpion clan.

“How many?” the miko asked, the question barely moving her lips. Her skin looked even paler in the daylight, almost as white as her hitoe. Inuyasha visibly swallowed, stuffing his hands carelessly in his long sleeves. “I don't know, exactly! But we've not got long to go Kikyo, I promise!”

A flash of anger cracked the surface of Kikyo's flawless face, and the priestess surged forward, grasping onto Inuyasha's collar. The hanyou pulled back his head in shock.

“Make me no more promises, Inuyasha! For you are yet to keep any of them! The tama should be complete by now!”

The hanyou muttered, “It would be, if it weren't for that damn kitsune!”

Koenma choked on his pacifier, while Kurama's frown deepened. He wasn't getting the answers he was expecting, and even Yoko remained silent at this accusation.

“Kitsune?” Kikyo repeated quizzically.

“Everywhere I turn, he's there...I wouldn't be surprised if he's cast some magic over her, distracting her from the shards!”

“That will not do...” the priestess whispered, releasing Inuyasha. The hanyou watched Kikyo with obvious strain, his eyes skirting around the forest.

“I will take care of the kitsune,” Kikyo announced, pressing her hand against Inuyasha's cheek, “You deal with the girl. If she fails to complete the tama within a week, then I must take action”.

The hanyou's face immediately lost colour, like a painting ran under a tap. Here the recording ended, the video playing a fizzy grey and white static.

Kurama lost balance, Koenma's desk biting into the bottom of his back. His mind felt similar to the screen- static. The pieces of the puzzle were scattered in his brain, and none of them seemed to fit.

“Is Kikyo going to kill Kagome?” he hissed, his nails- suddenly sharp- sinking into the painted wood of the desk. Inuyasha wouldn't allow it! I won't allow it!!

Koenma slid from his seat, walking around to stand in front of the avatar. The light from the fuzzing television cast a grey tinge over Kurama, making his hair seem silver, his eyes a rusty metal...

“Truthfully, I do not know these things. Even I have no power over free will- only my father dictates that.”

The avatar inhaled hard and fast, running fingers through his tufty hair. “I suppose I may not warn Kagome of the dangers she may face?” Koenma surely knows where my loyalties lie...

“No,” Koenma smiled sadly, “My father placed a spell on this room- anything high profile is unspeakable of beyond those doors. He does not trust me as he used to.”

 

 

Kagome awoke in Kaede's hut, curled up in her sleeping bag next to the brewing stove. The old women was chopping herbs with a small knife, but she looked up when she heard movement.

“Ah, you're awake child. It would seem your meditation was successful, hmm?”

The miko was dazed, rubbing her eyes, completely disorientated. Then it returned to her in a flash...the dagger, the hillside, Yoko, healing...

“Your kitsune friend dropped you here,” Kaede rose from her knees, pouring some clean river water into a cup as she spoke, “He was rather concerned that you hadn't yet awoke, but I assured him it was natural. You'll improve your recovery time as you practise,”

“Arigato,” the miko accepted the cup, drinking deeply. She felt dehydrated, as though all water had evaporated from her body. It was now dark outside, and Kagome wondered how long she'd slept.

“Kagome!” the young girl had seconds to react before a ball of orange fluff launched itself on her.

“Shippo-chan!” She cried happily, feeling guilty that she had forgotten all about the little kit.

“Are you better?” He asked hopefully, pulling up the black wool of her jumper's sleeve.

“Completely!” Kagome giggled, showing the little kitsune her smooth skin.

“Huh?” Shippo rubbed her arm as if looking for a trick. “But how?”

“I learned how to heal!” Kagome told him delightedly, cuddling the kit close, “No more scratches or nasty cuts! No more bruises or broken bones!”

“Really?” exclaimed Shippo excitedly, “I cut my knee swimming with Cho!”

Kagome rolled up the kit's blue short leg slowly, seeing the little bloody line marring his red fur. Closing her eyes and concentrated and whispered, “Heal!”

The kit gasped and Kaede nodded knowledgeably as a single spark of purple light flickered over the cut, sealing it completely.

“Sugoi, Kagome! Like magic!” Shippo clapped his hands excitedly, just as there was a sound of talking and arguing from outside.

“The others are back,” Shippo remarked warily. He burrowed closer to Kagome's chest, nuzzling her under the chin and remarking, “Was Yoko-sama visiting you?”

It was at that point Inuyasha entered the hut, puppy dog ears flapping. Sango and Miroku followed, both focusing on Kagome while the hanyou glared at the kit and miko.

“Are you well, Kagome-chan?”

“Better, Kagome-sama?”

“Hai, thank you,” Kagome smiled, inwardly wincing at the thunderclouds collecting above the hanyou. Oh boy, just in the door and he's already rearing for another argument...

“Well enough to go gallivanting with that pretty boy,” Inuyasha spat, crossing his legs and sitting with his back against the wooden wall.

“Inuyasha!” Miroku reproached, while Sango raised her eyes to the heavens.

“In fact, the kitsune was helping Kagome improve her healing skills,” Kaede remarked matter-of factly, spooning soup into bowls and passing them around.

“What healing skills?” Inuyasha demanded, “Kagome's never healed in her life!”

“Well, now she can,” Kaede beamed, handing said miko a bowl, “And if you had accompanied her back, Inuyasha, you may have seen for yourself,”

“Keh!” the hanyou huffed, refusing the soup, “I was collecting shards- the job she's supposed to be doing!”

“Inuyasha, please,” implored Miroku, shaking his golden staff, “We've barely been home two minutes, don't start a fight...”

“No, it's alright, Miroku-sama,” Kagome interjected. She got up and sat on her knees in front of the haughty hanyou. Inuyasha scowled at her, bracing himself for a sit, but instead the miko touched his face. He coloured instantly- “N-nani?”

Kagome closed her eyes, effortlessly healing the deep gash that had decorated the half demon's face. His golden eyes widened, while Miroku smiled approvingly and Sango's mouth fell open.

“I'm sorry I've not being doing my job, Inuyasha. But with these skills I'll hopefully improve in my abilities to help this group, and find more shards”.

The hanyou flushed, mumbling something about little cuts meaning nothing to him, but Kagome simply returned to her sleeping bag to finish her soup, Shippo at her side.

 

 

Much to everyone's surprise, Inuyasha made no fuss when Kagome announced she was going home for a day, to replenish supplies and check in with her family.

“I'll walk you to the well,” the hanyou muttered, scuffing out the hut while the miko hurried her goodbyes and grabbed her yellow backpack.

It was a serene night with a curved, yellow moon, like a fresh cob of husked corn. The stars were covered by dense clouds, but the moon offered more than enough light for the hanyou and miko.

Kagome ran her tongue around her dry mouth. It had been a while since she and Inuyasha had been alone for any amount of time. Truthfully, she was still hurt that Inuyasha had left the cave while she was unconscious- Sango and Miroku were more than enough to protect her, but it still cut her that the hanyou had shown so little concern for his injuries.

Maybe he was angry because I got in the way again? Kagome wondered, snatching a glance at the cross-armed hanyou as they walked through the forest named after him. His golden eyes seemed more wary than usual, and his ears were perfectly still, similar to that of a cat when detecting a sudden nose in the silence.

“Inuyasha?” The miko ventured quietly, noticing his right ear twitch.

“Nani?” he asked, tilting his head in her direction, surprising her with his gentleness.

“I...” Kagome licked her lips, her eyes fastening to the grass as they walked, “I just wanted to say sorry, I guess. For getting in the way and losing time for getting the shards,”

Inuyasha's eyes widened, though Kagome didn't see it. His fingers twitched, but stilled when she spoke again, emotion thick in her voice. “But I'm still angry that you stormed out the cave when I was out...”

Inuyasha went to speak, but Kagome cut across him with a dark look, “Shippo told me,”

The hanyou crunched a twig underfoot nosily. He swallowed, failing to think of an excuse, so decided on the truth. I owe her that much...

“I didn't leave because I was angry,” Inuyasha replied quietly, as they approached the well. Kagome shifted her backpack from one shoulder to the other, looking at the hanyou intently. He avoided her eyes, leaning against the well instead and looking at the moon. “I didn't want to leave you when you were hurt. But...”

The miko stumbled, reality literally making her trip.

“You...you mean...Kikyo?” Kagome asked, her eyes as dark as her hair. Inuyasha looked at her quickly, misunderstanding her shock.

“Who else?” Inuyasha retorted.

Who else?

Who else?

Who else?

“W-Wait...Kagome!” Inuyasha stuttered, as the miko shoved past him, throwing her bag down the well and hitching her leg over the side. The hanyou held onto her fast, his claws catching on the wool of her pullover. “That's not what I meant...I didn't mean it like that!”

The miko struggled with him, unable to see clearly because of the tears pooling in her eyes.

“Kagome, stop!” the hanyou shouted, shaking the girl's small frame, “Listen...!”

“No, you listen!” Kagome hissed, finally raising her eyes, her cheeks stained with tear trails, “You listen, baka! It doesn't matter how you mean it! It all means the same! I get it!”

“Kagome!” Inuyasha felt scorched by her gaze, but more so by her words. “D-don't cry! You've got it wrong!”

“SHUT UP!” The miko screamed, and with a loud rippppp she pushed the hanyou away, his claws tearing free of her jumper in shock, as he stumbled backwards to watch the well light up and Kagome disappear.

If Inuyasha hadn't hung his head at that moment, cursing all the gods under the moon, he would have picked out two golden lights a nearby tree.

She may be able to heal outside scars...a pity then, that her own are mainly internal...

 

 

Kurama had headed straight to the Higarashi shrine upon arriving from Rekai. He still wore his martial arts fighting uniform- he didn't care. He wandered the grounds, as Yoko filled him in on what had been progressing in the past. Kagome's mother passed him with the week's shop, and he helped her with her bags. She offered him tea as she unpacked the jumbo packs of ramen.

“I have a feeling Kagome will be returning tonight,” she explained with a smile as she stowed the many pots in a cupboard. Kurama laughed. The miko had her mother's smile. Perhaps her eyes from her father.

“Thanks for the tea,” Kurama gave a quick bow, “If you don't mind, I'd like to admire the grounds a little longer. You have many beautiful plants here,”

“Go ahead, Kurama-kun,” Mama Higarashi beamed. She watched as the redhead traipsed around the shrine until the sun dipped low in the sky, and the night eclipsed the day.

“Kurama-kun!” She called, “I'm leaving for my yoga class- goodbye if you're gone when I return!”

“Farewell!” Kurama waved, watching the woman walk down the many stairs wearing a sky blue tracksuit. He wandered back to the largest tree in the shrine. Goshinbuku...

The kitsune avatar could tell the tree carried history, if he were only to place his palm on its bark. But Kagome had already relayed that history to him, the first day they had met.

Kagome...she's returning!

Kurama inhaled deeply. I wonder...

He opened his mouth, intending to whisper, “Kikyo intends to harm Kagome”.

But no sound came out.

 

 

The miko exited the well house, fury flaring from every inch of her frame. She slammed the doors, her pack bashing her back from side to side as she stormed into the house, not even noticing a familiar youki on the grounds.

“INUYASHA NO BAKA!” Kagome yelled, pulling her hair as she stomped up the stairs, dumping her bag in her room and sitting on her bed with a thump. Her breath came in short stabs, and her fingers clenched the checked pink duvet cover. What an absolute moron he is...

Kagome let herself fall backwards onto the bed, closing her eyes and wiping away the wetness of her cheeks.

Well, there's only one thing a girl can do in a situation like this...and that's a nice, hot bath.

The miko willed herself up, rubbing her eyes with the heel of her hand. Robotic-like, Kagome unhooked her dressing gown from behind her door and tossed it over her arm.

“Mama? Ji-chan? Souta?” Kagome called as she made her way to the bathroom.

“Kagome? Is that you?”

“Hai! Ji-chan, I'll talk to you once I've had a bath!”

Luckily her grandpa was used to her ritual cleansing once arriving from the past, so saw no problem in her immediate recluse to the bathroom.

The miko shut the bathroom door with her foot, dumping her dressing gown, slinky nightgown and assorted bath treats she had grabbed from her room onto the floor. She sat on the floor as the taps began to churn out only hot water, and rested her head on her knees with a dejected sigh.

 

 

She...she didn't feel us...

Kurama had watched, slightly amused, as Kagome had stormed from the well house to her home in a matter of seconds. Her mood had been so dark the kitsune could practically see a black aura shrouding her.

Well, it's up to us to cheer her up!

Yoko...perhaps it would be better if we just leave.

But Kurama found himself putting one foot in front of the other, walking to the front door of Kagome's house. His hand also rapped the glass smartly without much of his own willpower.

You've waited long enough, don't you think?

“Who are you?” an old man, wearing priest robes of navy blue and white, asked quickly after opening the door.

“I am Minamino Suuichi, a friend of Kagome's. Is she home?”

“Minamino, eh? Never heard of you!” The grandfather sniffed suspiciously, “My granddaughter is bathing, and has just came back from a long trip. Come back tomorrow!”

And the door clicked back into place without protest.

That went well.

A bath, eh?

 

 

Against his better judgement, Kurama found himself around the back of the house. The bathroom window was open, and even from here the avatar could smell the scent of the miko's white peach bubble bath.

Is that why your mouth is watering?

That's it, I'm leaving!

But Kurama was planted to the spot, his gaze still directed to the wide open window.

Yoko! Don't you dare!

Time to live a little!

 

 

Kagome gave a contented sigh as she eased herself into the foam topped bath. The water was scalding hot, but the miko's body was so conditioned to the hot springs it was bearable. She sank beneath the water completely, only her toes and face visible above the rainbow jewelled bubbles. Usually Kagome would tie her hair back to avoid it getting wet, but she had forgotten a hair band, and besides, she had more pressing issues occupying her mind than damp hair.

Why does he insist on claiming that he 'has to' see Kikyo? If he really can't bear to part from her, he should just leave the group and wander the world with her!

The miko squeezed some liquid soap onto her hands. It was also white peach scented, to compliment the bubble bath. She lathered it over her skin, rising a little out the water so she could wash her body. The slight breeze from the window made her shiver, and she quickly sank back under the heated water.

Of course he wouldn't leave. He wants the shikon- but for what? Does Kikyo want to use it? To come back to life? Does Inuyasha want that?

The miko's hand went to the two chains around her neck. The rose pendant had collected some of the multicoloured bubbles between its petals. The shikon no tama shone with soap suds, which Kagome brushed off with her fingertips. The tama was warm, but whether from the water or its power wasn't clear. The miko's fingers traced the cracked crevice in the bauble, the empty space which should be filled with the remaining shards.

Not many left now...

Kagome had just slipped further beneath the water when an almighty crash hit the window. The miko jumped, causing water to spray and lap the sides of the bath, spilling over onto the floor tiles.

A bird?

She wiped the soap out her eyes, her heart still hammering at the fright. When she could finally see, the miko's mouth dropped open.

Two hands were clinging to the window sill. But as Kagome watched them, they grew in length, and the trim nails elongated into sharp claws. N-N-nani??

The hands clenched, and muscular forearms followed, along with the top of a silky white clad head, adorned with pointed fox ears.

“Yoko!” Kagome squeaked, pressing herself against the side of the tub, “What are you doing??”

The kitsune pulled himself upright and gracefully vaulted into the bathroom. His eyes were flashing from gold to green and back again, and blood was leaking from his hair line. The kitsune couldn't seem to focus, staggering a little as he clutched his head.

“Itai...I didn't mean to hit it that hard...who knew these houses could be so solid?”

“Nani?” Kagome asked hysterically, still trying to shield her body from view.

Yoko shook his head from side to side, and his eyes finally settled on metallic sunshine.

“You're bleeding...”-was all Kagome could think to say. She was rather stumped by the kitsune bandit standing in her bathroom, within reaching distance, while she was completely naked.

“Am I?” Yoko asked matter of factly. He licked his finger, wiping away the blood, remarking, “That should keep Shuuchi quiet for a while, neh?”

The miko blinked rapidly. “You mean...you hit your head...in order to gain control?”

“But of course, my dear...” Yoko purred, gazing down at Kagome with a smirk, “He's rather too straight laced to allow me to visit while you're bathing...”

“Well at least one of you has the right idea!” the miko exclaimed, but the kitsune was already kneeling next to the bath, cupping her face and kissing her neck. Kagome adamantly pressed herself against her side of the bath, refusing to let Yoko see her like this.

“You're burning up...” the kitsune whispered into her ear, after delivering a nip to her lobe, “Then again, the water is rather hot...”

The fox slipped his hand into the water, his claws running down Kagome's thigh.

“Yoko!” Kagome hissed, grabbing his hand, but in doing so twisting away from the side of the tub and exposing herself.

It was all the opening the kitsune needed.

Seconds later, the miko was once again submerged in the bath, while Yoko towered over her, his long, silver hair trailing in the water. Kagome was painfully aware that his robes were light enough to turn see-through and was glad only his knees, shins and feet were completely underwater, though the tunic part of his clothing which usually covered the lower part of his body now trailed in the bubbles.

The kitsune didn't wait for a rebuke- he immediately pressed against the miko, trapping her lips with his, as his hands wrapped around her back, crushing her soaking body against the silk of his kamishimo attire. “Yoko...” Kagome breathed, trying in vain to push the kitsune away. He held her even tighter, though she squirmed like a fish, unwilling to be controlled.

“Be still,” the bandit murmured, “Don't fight a battle you are destined to lose...”

Kagome would have rolled her eyes if Yoko had not bit her nipple at that exact moment. Kagome yelped, retaliating by pulling a lock of the kitsune's hair. He grinned, sucking soothingly on her breast, while his hands skimmed her hips, down her thighs. Her body was perfect to him- shapely and sleek. She looked divine with her midnight hair wet and sticking to her skin, white bubbles trailing her skin like intricate lace. Her skin glistening and moist was so appealing to him, and Yoko couldn't keep his hands to himself.

Kagome fought and protested still. A scarlet blush tinted her skin, though Yoko had seen her topless before- luckily the bubbles prevented him from seeing much further, though his roaming fingers seemed determined to discover as much of her body as possible.

“Kagome?” her creaky ji-chan's voice came from behind the door, quieting even the fox's movements. He stilled completely, as Kagome caught her breath, her lips inches away from Yoko's. The kitsune cheekily licked her nose.

“Hai?” she warbled, trying to keep her voice normal.

“Inuyasha is here!”

Kagome's eyes doubled in size.

“Kagome, are you in there?” The hanyou's voice came muffled from the door.

The miko gasped, and without thinking grabbed Yoko's shoulders, pushing her weight so he slipped underneath her. Water slopped out the bath at the shift, slapping the floor.

The kitsune's eyes were now larger than Kagome's, as he gazed upwards at her tense and crouched figure raised above him. Her eyes were fixed on the door, and her heart jumped like a rabbit's.

“I'm in the bath, Inuyasha! And I don't want to talk to you! Go away!”

For a few seconds Yoko could only stare in awe at the miko's breasts, dipping deliciously above him...her toned stomach...

Unfortunately for the kitsune, Kagome kept her hips under the water, and he could feel her pressing on top of him. In spite of the situation (or more so because of it) he was becoming increasingly aroused, and was glad the miko was distracted.

“Kagome! We need to talk!”

The miko clenched her jaw. “Tomorrow then! I'll come back tomorrow! But I don't want to see you today!”

After admiring how beautiful the miko looked, not only on top but also when in a fiery temper, the kitsune realised Kagome had pushed him completely into the water to mask his scent, and hide him from Inuyasha. Being both hanyou and inu, he would be unable to smell Yoko's scent through the water, especially when it was perfumed. The bandit was impressed that the miko had been able to think fast enough to save his discovery. He tried to shift without upsetting the miko's balance. It was becoming harder and harder to mask his arousal.

“Fine!” The gruff reply was greeted by a slump in Kagome's posture. She was clearly relieved, but she remained tense until her ji-chan's shout, “He's gone, Kagome!”

“Thank goodness...” the miko muttered, directing her gaze downwards. And discovering a smirking, completely soaked kitsune bandit pinned beneath her.

“Oh...Yoko!” Kagome gasped, “Gomen! I....!”

But the kitsune didn't let her finish, pulling her downwards with a splash. Kagome only had time to notice tiny water droplets that had caught on the kitsune's eyelashes before strong legs pressed against her thighs and Yoko pursued her mouth with increased fervour. His hands combed through her wet hair, down her back and finally squeezing her buttocks. The miko swallowed a moan as Yoko sucked skilfully on her tongue, while he began to rock against her body. His silk robes now clung to him like a skin tight suit- as a result, Kagome was very aware that his member was hard and pressing directly between her thighs. Fire rushed through her veins, and the miko had to fight the overwhelming urge to touch herself, so riddled was her body with desire. A thudding, second heartbeat drummed at her clit. The kitsune growled as Kagome began to grind against him with soft little cries, her fingers pushing aside the sodden material of his kamishimo to touch his chest.

Yoko...you're about to lose control!

Chikushou...

 

 

Kagome felt the change before she saw it. The body beneath her became soft and slight. The hands grasping her breasts lost their sharp edge. The hair caressing her skin was coarser and more wild.

“Kurama...kun...”

For there was the avatar, blinking enlarging emerald eyes. His crimson, ruffled mane stuck to his green, saturated fighting robe. “K-Kagome?”

The avatar drank in the naked, wet goddess that hovered over him. Her eyes were large and dark, her lashes clumped together in triangles, her cheeks warm and pink. Her lips were red, and very, very wet.

The miko tucked a damp lock of raven hair behind her ear. She giggled nervously at the avatar's stunned expression. “Some knock out, neh?”

Kurama swallowed, his eyes skimming Kagome's shinning skin once again. “H-hai...”

The miko made a move to get out the bath, but the avatar held her wrist, gently so that she could still break away.

“Kagome?” he spoke softly, and the intense look in his almond eyes made the miko freeze. Knee to knee, Kurama brushed her face with his fingers, before leaning forward and kissing her deeply. His thumb rubbed the miko's earlobe, before tracing the line of her jaw and skimming her neck, collarbone and eventually stroking her breast.

The miko leaned more urgently into the kiss, catching her fingers in the avatar's hair. For whatever reason, she found Kurama's soft touch even more pleasurable and addictive than Yoko's. Kurama pulled the miko into his lap, ignoring the slop of the water as Kagome nibbled his ear, kissing down his neck, sucking occasionally on his skin.

“Kagome! Are you coming out that bath any time soon?”

Ji-chan creaky voice brought the couple back to reality with a thump. The miko gave a small sigh, replying, “In a minute!”

Kurama's green eyes observed the miko silently as she unstopped the bath, the gurgle signalling the water was draining away.

“I have to go...” Kagome whispered.

Kurama smiled, standing gracefully and wringing the water from his clothes.

“Ano...will I get you a change?” the miko asked, quickly pulling on her dressing robe while the avatar looked the other way.

“Don't worry, I'll get home in about five minutes if I jump the roofs,”

Kagome blinked, tying her robe tightly. Kurama didn't seem to be joking, however, as he squeezed the remaining excess water from his martial arts uniform.

“Ah...slight problem...” The kitsune remarked, as he peered down from the open window. Kagome joined him, wincing as she saw Souta and a school friend kick a ball about three yards away from the house.

“Quick, you can climb from my bedroom, it faces the opposite part of the grounds...”

The miko opened the bathroom door cautiously, hearing the news blaring from downstairs, signalling her ji-chan was below them. Kagome grabbed Kurama's hand, pulling him along the hall to her room.

“Kagome, is that you out?” called her ji-chan, from the bottom of the stairs.

“Go!” The miko mouthed, kissing the avatar quickly, shutting her door. “Hai, that's me! Want a cup of tea, ji-chan?”

The kitsune heard Kagome go down the stairs with her grandpa to the kitchen, talking loudly, no doubt to let the avatar know where they were. Kurama smiled, looking quickly around the miko's room. Her scent and memories clung everywhere...from the tea stained carpet, to the worn checked pink duvet, to the desk spilling with papers. The avatar crept over to the bed, touching the pillow with a finger. His eyes flashed gold briefly, before he slid open the window, and silently dropped to the ground below.

 

 

It was late that night Kagome curled up eventually in bed. Her ji-chan had wanted all her news, then Souta, then her mother when she arrived home from yoga. The miko had to fight her blush when her mother raved about how that 'nice, quiet, redhead' had visited, spending many hours admiring the shrine's flora.

And I've got Inuyasha to face tomorrow...mou, I wish I didn't have to go back to the past just yet...

The miko sniffed her pillowcase as she snuggled into her warm bed. Mama must have used new cleaning stuff...it smells wonderful...

And it was with that smell Kagome drifted off to sleep.

 

 

The miko woke up suddenly. It was hot, too hot. She was sweltering. Her window was open wide. Kagome threw back her duvet and sheets, trying to let air get to her skin. She was wearing her slinky night gown. When had she changed? When she went to bed she was still wearing her dressing gown. She'd been too tired to change.

Kagome shrugged, rubbing her eyes. It was strange, but she didn't feel tired any more.

A light touch on her shoulder made the miko jump, letting out a gasp. She twisted her neck to the side, only to fall backwards onto the bed, a large figure, surrounded by shadow, prowling over her.

The miko, petrified, couldn't move, as this unknown being drew closer to her body. Fingertips ghosted over her legs, over the silk of her night gown, over her bust and arms, until they reached her face. A bead of sweat trickled down Kagome's temple, and a tongue grazed her skin.

“Who are you?” Kagome asked, but her voice didn't sound like her own. It scared her, and she tried to sit up, but the figure placed a hand on her shoulder. It leaned down and kissed her, and the miko began to shiver, fear making her body shudder uncontrollably.

“Kagome...” the being spoke in hushed tones. He, for it was definitely male, caressed her hair lovingly, before sliding down her night gown straps. The miko felt her fear dissolve as the silk slid down to reveal her body. She knew this male- he was as familiar to her as herself. She arched her back as his hot tongue battled with her own, pushing her further against the pillows. She was completely naked now, but her lover had removed his own clothes long before, and his strong and hard body roamed over hers, the heat between them unbearable. Kagome mewled as fingers explored her entrance, while claws teased the skin of her thighs.

As the miko surfaced for air, a chink of moonlight pooled through her window, highlighting the similar coloured hair of her lover.

 

 

Inuyasha had paced the well for two whole hours before bucking up the courage to jump back down. All the lights were off in the Higarashi shrine when he re-entered the present, but the hanyou could find Kagome's bedroom blindfolded.

As he climbed in the window, a overpowering scent it him, like cinnamon and opium. The hanyou reeled at the sight before him, nearly tumbling back out the window.

Kagome had thrown back her bed clothes haphazardly, so they hung from the mattress. The miko herself was breathing heavily, making occasional moans and shuddering. Her small frame was writhing on the bed, and Inuyasha's first thought was that she was having an awful nightmare.

Then a second wave of her scent hit him, and a moan took a new meaning.

Sucker punched, the hanyou padded carefully across the carpet, unable to tear his gaze from the miko. Sweat stuck her hair to her face, and the white, fluffy dressing gown she wore was slipping down her shoulders. Another jerking movement and Inuyasha swallowed, as it was soon clear Kagome wasn't wearing anything underneath. The miko arched her back, and the cord holding her gown together unravelled, revealing her smooth stomach and plunging cleavage.

“Kagome?” Inuyasha whispered, though he wasn't convinced he wanted to wake her. Watching her in this state was distressing on one level, but agonisingly stimulating on another. Then suddenly the miko flung her arms above her head, tossing back her tangled hair and making small noises like a cat. The hanyou moved quickly, giving her shoulder a shake- “Kagome, Kagome!”

The miko didn't seem to hear him. She ran a hand down her body, lingering over her breasts and stomach, her dressing gown now accumulated around her hips.

Inuyasha paused. He had seen her naked before, many times, most accidental- but not like this. This was a side of Kagome he never imagined- or, only imagined.

The hanyou was now inhaling her scent like a toxic drug, letting it fuel his blood. He clambered onto the bed, hovering over her, whispering her name and patting her face. But the miko reached out, catching Inuyasha completely off guard. She pulled him close, her eyes still closed, and the hanyou couldn't help but reach out and touch her body...

 

 

You did what??

Calm down, Shuuichi, it won't harm her...

I don't care! What a total violation of her trust! The kitsune seduction was bad enough, but this!

Kurama, who had changed into a pair of jeans and plain white shirt on returning home, now grabbed his brown leather coat.

What are you doing?

Stopping it before it's too late!

What, are you just going to charge into her bedroom and take it from under her pillow? What if she's sleeping? The plant takes affect as soon as the victim sleeps!

So she's a victim now?

Shuuichi...

It might not be too late!!

 

The last thing Inuyasha had expected when he had came to apologise to Kagome was to interrupt the miko during an erotic dream, and some how become part of it. The hanyou swallowed as he touched the raised tip of the miko's nipple. She reacted instantly, clinging to his hitoe and rubbing her face against his chest.

“Ka-Kagome!” Inuyasha stammered, “Wake up!”

But the miko seemed not able to hear him. The hanyou had resisted touching the miko like this for so long, and now she was coming onto him. Even if she was dreaming...

Inuyasha watched as a single drop of sweat rolled down Kagome's neck, trailing down her collarbone before expiring on her breast. The hanyou, unable to take it any more, leaned forward slightly, darting his tongue out to taste the miko's skin. She flung back her head once more, her lips opening in a silent cry. The hanyou, intoxicated beyond sense and reason, engulfed her breast in his mouth, sucking hungrily. He licked his way up her neck and chin, his saliva glistening her skin. Inuyasha closed his eyes as he pressed his lips against Kagome's, kissing her like he always wanted to for so many years.

 

 

Kurama's hand shook on the tree branch, his knee quivering. Through the miko's window, he watched as Inuyasha kissed Kagome. She was topless, and clinging to him. The avatar felt as though he was going to throw up. His stomach churned painfully, and he felt as weak as when facing down Karasu.

What are you waiting for?? Get in there and get him off her!!

But Kurama knew something wasn't right. And as he watched Kagome open her eyes, he felt he knew why.

She loves him. She always will.

“Inuyasha?” Kagome breathed in shock, recoiling from the hanyou. His expression was identical, but he reached out and pulled her towards him. “Gomen. Gomen, Kagome...”

She didn't protest as he caressed her face, and touched her lips with his once more. Her eyes closed again, and Kurama saw a single tear fall from her face.

What are you doing?! Stop him!

Kurama slipped from the tree, casting one glance back to the bedroom window before melting into the darkness of the night.

 

 

Long chappy, neh? You can't complain I've not left you with a lot to think about!

Until June, my friends!!

Arigato, as always, to my reviewers!

 

-MM-

 

Hawaiianhoney2030: Yay! I love you for loving it! Hope this chappy was enjoyable!

Purplebabe: Ah well, I can't answer that, it'll give away the plot!!

J0kEr: Lol hope you enjoyed!

WhiteDemoness11: Hehe. You've hit the nail on the head there concerning Yoko! Hope you liked the lime in this chappy! Yup, and I know who wins!! Hehe.

Kitsuneangel88: Well, I just love writing hot scenes lol! I'm a total hentai! But I'm glad you like them, and hope you liked this chappy as much!

Madmiko: Wow, another long review as ever! Arigato for taking the time to write it!

This is one of the chappies I've had planned for a while. We've seen Kagome so many times, in the anime and manga, get frustrated between the behaviour of these guys. I wanted a twist on the usual sucking up to Kouga and sitting Inuyasha! But yup, Kagome did have a big realisation, because it's true her life hasn't been normal, since the day she fell down the well. Damn, doesn't just get all the best lines?

But arghh, I always get too tangled in my own spicy scenes! I can see it so clearly in my head, and getting it down for everyone to understand...meh! Thanks for pointing it out, though I forgot to change her bandage part, which I'll edit later! Well, I had been watching that arc recently and couldn't resist giving a nod to the Yomi situation- it's one of my faves! Yup, Inu's finally starting to get clued up about our kitsune. I know, he was meant to be a little OOC, as this chapter showed! I was going to have the Koenma piece tacked onto the last chappy, but I wanted the cliffy! Tehee!

Oh, I would love to pair Kouga and Kagome! I would get killed (much as I am, undoubtably with this chapter!) but I have got a soft spot for the ookami. But he's just not bishouen enough!!

Well, Yoko tackles that issue this chapter. Kagome is pretty silly sometimes when it comes to helping her friends. I don't think she would really have broken her finger, but she likes to think she could, if she wanted to. And she didn't mean to plunge the dagger into her stomach- it was naughty Yoko sneaking up on her that made her do that!

Inu was still with the others getting shards...though, as Kaede points out, he should have came back with Kagome, instead of Shippo!!

I'm glad you picked up on it! Kagome is the opposite of Yoko when it comes to selflessness-as our kitsune is beginning to discover! And yay! I'm glad I'm showing her inner turmoil! I hate reading fics where it's like, 'Oh no, I love Inuyasha but...oh, what the heck!'

Hehe. Well, once I come back in June, I'll hopefully finish this fic off, and I've got another major couple of fics after that, but then I should get around to a Hiei Kag! It is something I definitely want to try, especially after reading your amazing fics! Thanks again for the fab review! Good luck with your next chapter of BWM!

Chrystal-Hearts: Hopefully it was worth the wait!

Becky Ducky: Lol yeah, a slightly emo moment at first, but that was just to shock y'all! Tehee. Wow I'd like to read that oneshot lol! And hey, I treasure all reviews, no matter if as long as madmiko's or a sentence only!

And don't worry- I've been studying like crazy too, I feel your pain! Good luck with your exams!! And yup, the shikon has a large part to play in this plot. Yay! Thank you, I try my best to always write my characters canon!! And sorry I haven't reviewed your fic in a while- studying is my excuse also!!

SknFS: Hehe. I'm glad you caught the irony! Though I'm sure it would hurt (though I've never broken a bone before, touch wood!). Oh wow, I like that! He can only expect that he can't expect her to do anything he'd expect. Tongue twister! And I totally get you!! Hehe!

Kyekye: I aim to shock lol!

Hate2LoveU: Gomen, I update as fast as pos!

Youkerie: Oh wow, that's a great compliment. As of June, I'll be updating loads!

Sesshomaru_Kagome_lover_4ever: Oh my goodness, that was naughty! You scared me with that review title! Tehee! Um, check again dearie, the chapters are different! You maybe hit the back button lol? Yay, another fan of know the lingo lol!

 

-FF-

 

S.T. Nickolian: Yup, Yoko is all for helping her out...unlike a certain baka hanyou!

Michael22: Arigato! Well Inuyasha certainly makes a move this chappy...but who will win??

kittyb78: Arigato!

XiDOREyoux and CrimsonTears: I love Kouga-kun!! Tehee.

Hxc muffin: I love you for loving it!!

linglingchan: Well, hopefully it was worth the wait!

DeathNoteMaker: Hehe. Stick around, and see what happens!

IchikoKitsuneKoumori: And there's more drama to come!

KazunaPikachu: Eeks...well I hope you'll wait 3 more lol! And arigato!

Cherry-Blossom-Love: Arigato! And please send me a message whenever you feel like it! You seem lovely and fun also!!

briasa: thanks!

Cowgirlkitten2000: Can't tell I'm afraid!

Hareyu nami: Arigato!

Dark Inu Fan: Well, to be honest Yoko would have most likely been watching her the moment he felt her pain- through the necklace you know? But your explanation's good also!

Rem-Luva: Hehe. Don't we all!!

Fan: Well, as you've seen in this chap, both Kurama and Inuyasha have role to play!

Kulamt: Arigato! Love you for loving it!

Passionate crow rat: Hey, don't worry! We all have stuff to put before ff! Lol, well in case my big spiel at the top didn't convince you, I promise and swear and swear on my boyfriend's life, that I will never, EVER, ever abandon this fic! I'd die first of all, with all these ideas zipping around in my head! I simply couldn't do it! So I'm going away for a bit, but I will be back! I know how hard it is to find good fics in this genre, and it thrills me you class Not the Only One as one of those!! And yay! I have a biggest fan! Hehe!

 

-IL-

 

Mikomiyoko: What a great pen name! Thank you, it is my dream to be! Well, I'm away for a bit, but when I come back in June I'd be more than happy to help you!

 

Reviews for Hatsuyume (New Year One shot!):

 

-IL-

 

Night Ember: Actually, Hatsuyume is the name of the traditional 'first dream' of the new year. Literally of course, it doesn't mean first dream, but that's what the Japanese call it when it concerns new beginnings! Check it on wiki! And arigato for your review!

 

-FF-

 

Madmiko: I'm glad you thought so! It's my first time writing AU, but I wanted the characters to ring true to their selves! Hehe, I couldn't help but adding that part- (my boyfriend is actually a great singer, and I had just listened to the theme song). Well, that's a great honour, and I hope I'll keep you tuning in!

Yume tsuki kitsune: Arigato! They're the best!

Euterpey: Hehe. Arigato! And it's not him that's interrupting Not the Only One, but damned school work and my job! Hehe.

IchikoKitsuneKoumori: Arigato!

Kagome Lady of Darkness: Arigato! I love ya for loving it!

 

-MM-

 

elemental_dea: Arigato! I was aiming for fluff and sweetness lol!

Beckyducky: Oh, arigato so much! And yay, I'm glad you got over him! Same, I usually hate oneshots, but I had to spread the love lol! I may add a little to it, depending on my workload- june, of course lol! Anyung lol!

 

 

Well, I won't be posting a Valentine's oneshot this year- please check out Sealed With a Loving Kiss from last year and see how my writing has (hopefully!) improved in a year! Also, if you haven't already done so, please check out my new year oneshot, Hatsuyume!

I'm working tomorrow, so me and Chris-kun are celebrating Valentine's day today! We're going to a Thai- I can't wait!

 

One again, arigato for all your support for this fic.

Kawaii-Keke-Chan, signing off until June 08'.

xox