InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Not the Only One ❯ Change ( Chapter 34 )

I'm glad the last chapter was so well received. I was worried a lot of people would be like, “Oh, that was so predictable!” or think it was cliché. It was not - hopefully this chapters explains Kagome's state of mind.

Another thing. Humans are complex beings, with complex emotions. Just keep that in mind!

 

YES, it did take a while to get out. But I'm a busy little ningen!

 

Know the lingo!:

 

Kimi o ai shiteru: I love you

Kaa-san: mother

Gomen nasai: forgive me

Arigato: thank you

Onegai: please

arigato: thank yourselves

onna: woman

'kuso: damn it

kuh: huh?

Anata: darling (in this context)

iya: no

hai: yes

daijoubu: are you ok? (in this context)

 

 

This chapter is dedicated to NinjaRikku, for introducing me to the Sookie Stackhouse novels. Yay, another fandom!

 

Chapter 34

Change

 

 

It was raining hard when Kagome stumbled blindly out of the well house. The sky was a dark and turbulent grey, with bloated clouds being buffeted by the shrieking wind.

The miko's blouse and skirt soon became plastered to her skin, and she realised it wasn't the first time today her clothes had gotten wet. She thought back to earlier that day, when she had bathed with Yoko, and she wished she hadn't left the kitsune's side.

Kagome's hair cascaded down her back, soaking her blouse further, and wet strands were slicked to her face, catching her lips and eyelashes. She found her legs no longer had the energy to carry her, and she sunk to her knees in front of the Goshinbuku.

It gave her little protection from the elements, but Kagome's heart was so numb already, she barely felt the cold. She looked to the tree for answers, but it remained stoically silent, although the wind shook its branches and snatched leaves into the air.

The miko wanted to climb over the fence and press her wet cheek against the hard bark of the Goshinbuku's trunk, but she still couldn't move, though her body was shaking of its own accord. Her knees grew sore against the ground- it felt as though she was kneeling in snow. Pain lashed through her bones, but still the miko didn't move.

 

I ran away again...

Kagome raised her face to the rain, letting droplets sweep down her eyelids, trickling down her cheeks and chin. The effect was refreshing, but it did nothing to still her thoughts.

But I couldn't face Inuyasha hearing what she said...I couldn't see him lie to my face as he tried to cover the truth...

The miko clenched her fists at her sides, her fingers numb with the cold.

I know Inuyasha wouldn't have let Kikyo steal my soul, if I had confronted them...and it makes sense now, why he kept me in the past, and why Shippo and Sango wondered why I took so long to return.

But still...

Kagome sighed, and she felt tears mingle with the raindrops on her face.

The miko thought back to the conversation she had overheard.

 

“From what I have observed, the girl hasn't even been helping you find the shard! I thought that was her only purpose?”

“It is her only purpose,” the hanyou replied quietly.

 

Kagome knew, to an extent, Inuyasha had been lying. But why did he lie? Why couldn't he tell Kikyo how he felt about Kagome? After all their years together, facing death every day, how could he still try and pass her off as nothing?

 

After all, he did kiss me. Does he intend to love us both?

 

“Once the jewel is complete- you will fulfil your promise, Inuyasha...”

 

His promise? To go to hell with Kikyo? In that case, the reason Inuyasha has been so anxious to rebuild the shikon is...so he can be with Kikyo?

 

Kagome fished the jewel from her blouse. It was the only warm thing she could feel, and its heat pulsated softly, like a second heart. The miko held the shikon in her fist, knowing only one piece remained to make it complete.

 

So then, nothing has changed in all these years. Inuyasha will go to hell to Kikyo- regardless of my feelings. Nothing I have done, or will ever do, will change that.

 

The miko clutched the shikon to her forehead, letting the heat from the jewel kiss her marred skin. Her mind was remembering the kiss Inuyasha and she had shared- their first, and their last.

 

 

 

 

Hiei liked the rain, because it was a noise to focus on when there were too many thoughts clouding his brain. Particularly tonight, after visiting Yukina at the temple. That oaf Kuwabara had been there, and the subject of Yusuke and Keiko's wedding had came up. Yukina, with Shizuru and Botan, were to be 'bridesmaids'. Hiei hadn't understood this concept, but Genkai had explained it to him with her usual dry humour.

“It was Westerners' belief that evil spirits would be present at a wedding, and so they came up with the idea of surrounding the bride with 'look-a-like' women, so that the bride herself couldn't be targeted. Of course, the Westerners manage to bastardise even their own spirit traditions. It doesn't take a dimwit to realise the bride is the one in white, not one of the four girls wearing this season's must have colour.”

“I think it's lovely that Keiko wants to incorporate Western culture into a Japanese wedding,” smiled Yukina, “and I'm honoured to be her bridesmaid!”

“Well, just watch yourself, Yukina,” Genkai smirked, darting a look at Hiei. “Western weddings are full of superstitions. They say whom ever catches the bride's bouquet is the next to get hitched!”

“Well, I'm pretty tall,” Kuwabara had boasted, “I could catch it for you, baby!”

The hybrid youkai grimaced at the thought. It was bad enough that his sister was 'dating' that oaf, but he knew for a fact marriage would be a disaster. Yukina would desperately continue the search for her brother in the hope of having some family present. Even worse, the idea of giving Kuwabara a good talking to about making an honest woman out of Yukina...despite the rain, Hiei's blood boiled.

The hyrbid youkai was taking the route to his favourite tree, a huge Sakura that was situated in a park not too far from the kitsune's flat. He bounced from rooftop to rooftop, too fast for the human eye.

That ki...the miko has returned from the past?

Hiei was about to jump over the Higarashi shrine, when he spotted a dark dot in front of the sacred tree. It was the miko, and she was lying in the rain.

Hiei inhaled sharply. He could smell no blood, nor any youkai nearby that could have caused harm. Cautiously, Hiei dropped to the shrine grounds, careful not the startle the miko. He had learned his lesson that approaching her hastily could cause a lot of unnecessary pain.

“Miko?” Hiei called out, his voice muted by the piercing rain and howling wind. Despite his long cape and scarf, the cold was giving the youkai pins and needles. He was shocked, then, when he drew closer to the miko, and saw her thin clothing clinging to her body, almost transparent, and most of her legs and arms exposed to the harsh weather. She was concious- just. Hiei reached out to her mind in warning, but her barriers were non-existent. This worried the youkai more than the fact she was lying in the rain.

“Miko. What are you doing?”

Hiei tried to find out what had happened from her thoughts, but it was impossible. There was nothing. In such cases, Hiei thought of the mind as a blank canvas- the stark whiteness revealing nothing, because no paint had been daubed on the surface. Minds like that usually belonged to humans or youkai that had ill mental health, or those who were comatose.

But Kagome's mind was different. The miko's canvas had been seeped in so much paint that the fabric had warped and torn from the wooden easel, leaving a gaping hole.

 

 

 

 

Kurama had been listless after leaving Kagome the day before. He had dutifully taken his mother to the local Italian restaurant, and had lied to her, saying that the reason Kagome couldn't make it was her part time job.

Though her shard collecting job is more full time.

It was wonderful to see his mother again, but Kurama had to really concentrate not to think of the past, and the memories Yoko was gaining. He would have time for those later. The kitsune avatar's stomach churned as he wrapped fettuccine around his fork. Usually his favourite dish- made with cream, herbs, mushroom and tomato- would be devoured within minutes, but the avatar only managed a couple of mouthfuls.

“Suuichi, dear, are you alright?” his mother asked, concern glowing in her eyes.

“Hai, kaa-san. I'm just not very hungry.”

He had sat through dessert (nothing for him, but cinnamon waffles for his mother) and coffee before he could finally pay and leave. The avatar drove Shoiri to the train station, guiltily glad her stay was short this time, as she had an important presentation at work the next day. Kurama felt bad as he kissed his mother goodbye. He loved spending time with her, and cherished every moment now they lived apart, but he was in no state of mind to entertain tonight. As soon as the avatar got into his flat, he collapsed on the couch. His wounds were still sore from the battle in Rekai, and he knew he should prepare some medicine. But it was too easy to succumb to Yoko.

 

Kurama awoke late the next afternoon, even more exhausted than he had been before he had slept. The turmoil of reliving Kuronue's death all over again made him weak and upset. After having a quick shower, the avatar prepared some medicine, ate a little rice, then went back to sleep.

 

 

 

 

Hiei inched closer and closer until he knew Kagome was aware of his presence. He knelt down and touched her shoulder. It was like touching a marble statue, she was so cold. Hiei unfastened his cape, and threw it over the miko.

“I'll take you to Kurama.” The hybrid told her, and bundled the miko into his arms. Her eyes were shut as though in sleep, her body limp. Her skin was almost blue, and Hiei tucked the cape around her so that she was sheltered from the weather.

The avatar will know what to do.

 

When Kurama awoke, it was dark, and his body clock felt muddled. He called his mother to ensure she had arrived safely, apologising for not calling sooner. The avatar knew he should eat, having skipped several meals in his sleep, but his body felt a horrible numbness.

It must be from witnessing Kuronue's death once more...

Watching Yoko's intimate memories with Kagome had eased his sadness slightly, but it also made him miss the miko. He wasn't sure when he would see her next. Kurama wandered aimlessly around the apartment, starting many tasks, and eventually lapsing into thought on his bed. Until there was a sharp rap at his window.

“Hiei!” Kurama gasped, flicking open the catch of the window. Rain drove in with the wind, spraying the kitsune with droplets. Hiei jumped in nimbly, soaking wet and dripping onto the carpet, a bundle in his arms.

“K-Kagome?” Kurama cried out in shock, taking the cloaked girl from Hiei's arms. The miko's heart was beating feebly, and her skin was like ice.

“She was colder- I was gradually heating her with my ki, but it was difficult to concentrate and travel through that rain...”

“Arigato, Hiei. But what happened to her?”

“She was lying on the ground. I can't read her thoughts- they've gone void.”

“Void?” Kurama repeated, his voice hoarse. He shook his head, trying to right his mind.

“Hiei, could you start running a bath? I need to get Kagome out of these clothes...”

The hybrid nodded, and left the room. Kurama gently placed the miko on his bed, running his hands over her cheeks. She looked in pain, her forehead creased, her lips thin.

“Gomen nasai, Kagome...” The kitsune worked quickly, unbuttoning the miko's sodden blouse, which he could have easily ripped, as it was so water logged it was like paper. Next he unbuttoned her skirt, and slipped it past her legs, concentrating on the task at hand rather than her body.

I can't even sense any emotion from the rose pendant...just nothingness. Void, as Hiei said.

Kurama quickly fetched his house coat from his closet, and assessed Kagome's body for any obvious wounds, but there was nothing.

What could have caused Kagome to be like this??

The kitsune wrapped the housecoat around the miko, glad his mother had given him such a thick one as a present last year. He scooped Kagome into his arms, and walked into the bathroom.

“There's only one image I can get from her mind, Kurama,” Hiei said, as he stepped aside to allow the kitsune into the bathroom.

“Nani?” Kurama asked urgently, holding Kagome close to his chest, her coldness making him shiver.

“That hanyou, and some onna in miko robes.”

 

 

Kurama eased Kagome into the bath, still in her underwear. He trusted Hiei, but he still wouldn't let anyone else see her naked. The water wasn't too warm- he didn't want the miko to go into shock. As soon as her body was submerged, the avatar knelt beside the bath, supporting the miko's head above the water. With his free hand, he summoned a reviving plant, and smearing the seed's pollen between his fingers, he dipped into Kagome's mouth.

She was still for a moment, then immediately coughed, and Kurama leapt forward, holding her upright by her forearms. The miko spluttered and choked, and Hiei silently handed Kurama a glass of water. He gently tipped it to Kagome's lips.

“Kagome?” the avatar spoke quietly, so as not to startle her. Her lashes fluttered as she came around, and when her eyes opened, Kurama smiled.

“K-Kurama-kun?” the miko asked shakily. She looked down at the bath, then at Hiei who was standing in the doorway, facing away from them, his eyes closed. Kurama stroked her face.

“Anata...how are you feeling?”

Kagome blinked several times, then her eyes became very wide, and almost coloured black.

She must be remembering...

The miko swallowed, and took a few deep breaths.

 

 

Kagome awoke, feeling warm and as if she were floating. As the fog of her mind cleared, she heard someone call her name, and found herself looking into the deep green irises of Kurama.

As she gathered her surroundings, Kagome was suddenly flooded with a rush of images.

Yoko.

Shippo.

Sango.

The forest...

Inuyasha...

and Kikyo.

Hiei made a slight noise, and he crossed his arms. Kagome realised with a shock her mental barriers weren't up, and quickly shielded her thoughts, blushing.

“Stay out of my head, Hiei!”

“Those memories hit me without my asking.”

Kurama looked quizzically at Kagome and Hiei, knowing he was missing out on something.

The miko lowered her eyes, an unhappy blush still on her cheeks.

“We'll leave you in peace, Kagome. I'll go get you some dry clothes, ne?”

Kagome nodded, sinking lower in the water. Kurama smiled reassuringly at her, and followed Hiei out of the room.

 

 

 

 

“I see. And Kagome witnessed the conversation, then ran for the well...”

Hiei had briefly explained the situation to the kitsune while he fetched clothes for the miko.

“Hai.”

“'Kuso...” Kurama shook his head, his eyes angry. Kagome had been hurt enough in the last few weeks, and it seemed to him that Inuyasha had delivered the final blow. Yoko couldn't help but feel smug, but Kurama felt anguished for Kagome's sake.

“I'll leave you to it then,” Hiei remarked, opening the window. “Good luck.”

Kurama sighed, picking out a clean t-shirt (the shirt Yusuke had given to Kurama as a present). He knew all his pants and denims would be too large for Kagome, and his mother had taken all her clothing home to wash. The kitsune settled for a clean pair of boxer shorts that were too small for him.

It may seem intimate, but at least they will fit.

The kitsune knocked softly on the bathroom door. “Kagome? I'll leave some clothes out here for you.”

There was no response, but the kitsune could hear the gurgle of water draining from the bath. Kagome opened the door, a towel wrapped around her hair, and one around her body.

“Kurama-kun!” she gasped, and crumpled into his arms. She cried heavily, and Kurama held her close. He enveloped the miko completely in his arms, her head tucked under his chin, and he inhaled her damp hair, smelling of roses, of him.

Mine...a vivacious thought growled in his head, neither he or Yoko, but a combination of the two. Kurama's chest ached with the hot tears Kagome shed, and although he had seen her cry, he had never seen her this hysterical. It caused him physical pain, because he loved her, and he had allowed another man to hurt her. Botan's words came back to him...

“Be careful,” she whispered, “That girl has a lot ahead of her. I don't think you should get involved.”

Kurama gritted his teeth as he ran his fingers through Kagome's hair slowly in an attempt to soothe her. I don't care what lies ahead...but I will protect Kagome!

 

 

After Kurama had finally calmed the miko down, she silently changed into the clothing he offered. Kagome didn't say anything his choice of garments, glad just to be dry. The t-shirt was too long for her anyway, and so the boxers were mainly covered. Kurama wrapped her in his house coat, and made her strong tea.

“I've brought cookies too,” the kitsune smiled gently, handing her the mug and setting a plate of the treats down on the bed, “chocolate chip...”

“Arigato...” Kagome replied, drinking her tea. She was propped up in Kurama's bed with pillows supporting her back, and sheets and quilts bundled up to her chin. Despite her bath, the miko had been unable to heat up, and Kurama wanted to ensure she didn't fall ill.

“How are you feeling?” the avatar asked tentatively, rubbing the little bump under the covers that he knew to be the miko's feet.

“Better, thanks to you,” smiled Kagome weakly, but it didn't meet her eyes.

“Do you want to talk about it?” Kurama asked.

“Hiei told you?” Kagome replied, her eyes unable to meet his.

“Hai. I thought it would be less painful for you, having to repeat...what you saw...”

Kagome nodded, biting her lip as she fought the tears welling up in her eyes. She took the cookie Kurama offered her, biting into it slowly.

“What do you think, Kurama-kun?” The miko asked quietly.

Kurama rubbed the back of his neck, thinking. “Well...in my opinion, Inuyasha is a fool for allowing Kikyo to think it's alright to threaten you. He should have addressed the issue a while ago...then she wouldn't think she can do as she pleases. But, I think he believes he is protecting you...”

“Hai...” Kagome nodded, taking another bite of cookie. “What upsets me is...if he intends in keeping his promise, that means...”

Kurama nodded slowly. “I understand that you must be upset...”

There was silence as Kagome's unspoken words seemed to echo in the room.

Inuyasha will go to hell with Kikyo.

Kagome felt cookie crumbs lodge in her throat and drank some tea. She searched for the words to translate her pain so that the avatar would understand.

“It's more than just...that...it's like something I've been fighting against for years, but now I have to accept...that I've still lost...”

The kitsune leaned his head on the miko's knee, rubbing her legs through the quilt. Kagome swallowed, feeling a lump in her throat. She didn't want to cry again in front of Kurama...he treated her so tenderly, like she was made of glass, but it only made her feel worse.

“Kurama-kun...” Kagome put down her empty cup on the bedside cabinet, “Will you hold me?”

The avatar blinked, before quickly moving to the miko's side. “Of course, Kagome...”

He hugged her strongly, wrapping her completely in his arms and rocking her. Kagome inhaled his scent gratefully, glad to have something to concentrate on. She ran her fingers through his hair, and remembering washing Yoko's hair.

“Oh, I'm sorry. About Kuronue...” Kagome whispered. “I forgot to say earlier...”

“You have enough on your mind, Kagome,” Kurama replied, caressing the back of her neck, “But thank you. I didn't realise it was so soon, so it did hit me as quite a shock.”

The miko broke the embrace, before pushing the many duvets and quilts from her body. Kurama silently understood her request, and climbing in beside her, covering their bodies with the bedclothes. He cradled the miko in his arms, glad that her little body was radiating heat.

 

 

It was so peaceful in Kurama's arms, and so warm. The kitsune gently rubbed the miko's back, diffusing the tension from her joints. Kagome twisted a lock of vibrant scarlet hair around her finger, amazed at the many colours of red that ran through the avatar's hair. She could have stared at it for hours, identifying each tone.

Kurama tipped the miko's chin up slightly, and looked her directly in the eyes. The miko felt herself blush under his gaze, as he examined her eyes for something.

“Nani?” Kagome asked, looking away from him, embarrassed.

“Nothing. I just love looking at you, Kagome. You are so beautiful...”

The miko shook her head in protest, but the kitsune stopped her in her tracks. He supported the back of her head as he leaned in and gently pressed his lips against hers. Kagome froze, unable to think what to do, but as the avatar deepened the kiss and pulled her body closer to his, she felt her anxiety melt away.

It had been too long for Kurama- and seeing Yoko's memories of the past did little to help his longing for the miko. Furthermore, Kagome had been hurt. Kurama's natural instinct was to protect and please the one he loved.

But the avatar wasn't completely insensitive, and so he forced himself to be very slow and gentle with the miko, kissing her as delicately as possible, running his fingers down her spine and no where else. But Kagome soon broke the kiss, pushing a little against Kurama's chest.

I went too far...the kitsune thought, and was about to prepare an apology when the miko spoke.

“Kurama-kun...please, don't hold back tonight...”

The avatar blinked. “But Kagome...in the circumstances...”

The miko smiled, though her eyes still held despair. “I know what you're doing. You're just trying to comfort me, without taking things too far so I don't panic. You're a gentleman, Kurama-kun, and I've always loved that about you. But...”

Kagome bit her lip. “It's all over for me and Inuyasha. That was the only thing that held me back before. I was selfish, but you still continued to please me, knowing I still had hope in my heart for another man. But now, Kurama-kun, it's certain. I only belong to you and Yoko.”

Kurama felt his heart swell at the miko's words, but still felt the need to tread carefully.

“I'm so happy to hear that Kagome, truly I am. But you can understand if I am wary. What happens if Inuyasha returns, and tries to make it up to you? I couldn't return back to the way things were after this...”

“Even if Inuyasha returns...it wouldn't change anything,” Kagome said quietly. “My heart can no longer love him...it has given him too many chances...”

The miko touched Kurama's cheek tenderly. “Please, Kurama. If you love me, please help to heal me. Please help me take my mind off the horrible visions I keep replaying in my head...”

“Kagome...” Kurama clutched the miko to his chest, his heart soaring at her words, yet at the same time, his stomach twisted. “I don't want to take advantage of you while you are in so much pain. You may want me now, but you may regret it later...”

“Kurama-kun...” Kagome smiled sadly against his cheek, “I promise, this is not some little high school rebound. I've been waiting for something to determine the fate of the relationship between Inuyasha and I for years. Now it has been decided, and finally, I am free...”

Kagome looked into Kurama's eyes deeply before she kissed him. “Kimi o ai shiteru, Kurama-kun.”

The avatar crushed his lips against the miko's, holding her body ever closer to his. “I love you too, Kagome. And I will never, ever hurt you.”

The miko smiled, her first true smile since she had awoken. “And I can believe you, Kurama-kun. I know you will never cause me any pain...”

Kurama embraced the miko, his happiness too much to bare. Now he would turn Kagome's sorrow into joy. And she would belong to he and Yoko alone. Theirs.

 

The whole night stretched out in front of them. Kurama and Kagome both remembered the last time they had shared a bed- in the hotel, at the engagement party of Yusuke and Keiko. But this night, there would be no interruptions.

Kurama showered the miko with kisses, still gently and carefully. He kissed his way down her neck, long, sucky kisses that left Kagome warm and short of breath. He pulled the hem of her (his) t-shirt up slowly, inch by inch, to reveal her flat and smooth stomach, which he also kissed, occasionally focusing on one area and licking and nibbling. Kagome couldn't take her eyes off this wonderful creature, whom was lavishing her with attention.

The miko hadn't put back on her underwear, because it was still soaking wet, and when Kurama stroke her breasts through the thin material, her nipples peaked instantly. Kagome couldn't help but give a little moan as the kitsune slipped the t-shirt up so slowly over her breasts- he was teasing her by being so gentle. Finally the avatar touched her with his fingers, and the feelings of his fingertips on her breasts was wonderful. Kurama found the miko's lips and languished her mouth with his tongue as he massaged her breasts, his thumbs circling her nipples.

“Ahh, Kurama-kun,” Kagome gasped. The kitsune was going so slow it was causing her a physical pain.

Kurama chuckled at her restlessness. He began to tease her nipples harder, twirling them around in his fingertips. “Is that better, Kagome-chan?” he murmured.

“Oh yes...” The miko gasped into his mouth, and she sucked on his bottom lip. Kurama nipped her in response, causing another moan, which he swallowed before kissing down her neck once more to her chest.

Kagome sunk her fingers through the avatar's hair as he sucked on her breasts, using the tip of his tongue to taste her nipples before dragging them taunt with his mouth. Kagome shuddered underneath him, and when he rose to kiss her again, his mouth was hotter and sweeter.

“Beautiful,” Kurama observed, sitting back and admiring Kagome, “But I think the t-shirt needs to come off...”

The miko obligingly allowed the kitsune to pull it over her head. Her hair was still a little damp and she shivered as it touched her bare back. Kurama smiled, lying her softly back down on the bed, spreading her hair over his pillow so she wouldn't catch a chill from it.

He was about to kiss her when Kagome stopped him. “Take your top off first...” Kagome told him.

Kurama grinned, and eased the Super Dry sweater over his head. He was bare underneath, and Kagome sighed happily, reaching up and stroking his muscles. She pulled him down on top of her, so she could wrap her arms around his strong back. She loved the feeling of their bodies, skin on skin, and it heightened their kiss. Kurama loved the way her breasts pressed against him as they kissed, and he could feel his body react accordingly.

 

Instinctively, they moved at the same time, Kagome parting her legs and allowing Kurama to move between them. The miko wrapped her legs around the kitsune as he pushed down on her, the hardness in his pants grinding against the boxers Kagome wore. The miko loved how Kurama looked above her, the muscles in his arms clenched, his abs taunt, his crimson hair caressing her cheek, and his eyes...how Kagome could sink into those vivid pools of emerald. They bore so deeply into her soul, it was difficult not to get lost in them.

Kurama picked up the pace, and they were rocking together, panting and growing hotter and hotter, their bodies glistening with sweat. The kitsune finally moved off Kagome's body, and kissed her lightly before his hands trailed down her stomach, slipping under the waistband of the boxers.

The miko felt her whole body hold a breath. Kurama's hand slipped down through her coarse hairs, finally dipping in between her wet lips. Kagome gave a small cry of contentment- how long had her body been waiting for this touch? The kitsune watched Kagome hungrily as he explored her folds, toying with her by rubbing the moist skin between his fingertips. The miko squirmed beneath him, gasping when he finally thrusting a finger into her core.

“Ahh, Kurama...” the miko moaned against his mouth as he began to pick up the rhythm, causing her whole body to shake underneath him. Kurama began to twist her nipples with his teeth, and Kagome's body shook even harder.

“Do you like that, my love?” he whispered against her slick skin, making her shiver.

“Yes!” she moaned, adoring how he made her body feel. Two digits now plundered her body, in and out, making her wetter and wetter. Kurama's breathing became short, and she could feel his hardness growing against her leg, but she was in no position to relieve him.

“Kurama!” Kagome gasped, as the kitsune changed his motion, make circular movements inside her, brushing her clit and causing a heavenly grinding sensation that was almost a pain. The miko was shuddering uncontrollably now, and Kurama removed his fingers, slipping the boxers past her waist, past her thighs. He kissed all her skin, taking his time, while Kagome's lower regions thrummed with adrenaline. His kisses did little to calm her, as he moved lower down her body, parting her legs wider to allow his mouth access to her very wet lips.

“Ah!” Kagome groaned as Kurama's tongue darted inside her, sweeping around her sweet flesh before beginning to plunge inside her. He alternated his movements- sucking slowly, then licking quickly. Kagome clutched his hair, panting for breath. The kitsune's eyes were hooded as he glanced up at her, before he raised himself up a little. Without warning, Kurama began to thrust inside Kagome, with his tongue on top, and his fingers underneath.

“Ohhh...Kurama...” The miko tried not to scream at the sudden onslaught of pleasure sweeping through her body. She was jerking like a badly controlled puppet, the avatar's ministrations making her convulse with each new stab of heat.

“Come for me, anata,” Kurama whispered against her lips. As if that sensation wasn't bad enough, the kitsune thrust harder and faster.

“Ahh! Please, please!” Kagome begged, as the pleasure tightened inside her, the pressure swelling and ready to pop. She tried to ask him to stop, as the feeling was too overwhelming, too much, but the kitsune ignored her, the bed creaking underneath them as he moved faster and faster.

“Kurama!” Kagome gasped, and her body finally released her, as she came into the kitsune's mouth. He held her buttocks in his palms, easing her hips to give him better access as he pressed his lips against her, drinking every last drop of her essence. The miko's breath came in short bursts as she tried to recover, her skin tingling and raw.

“Mmm,” Kurama concluded, as he travelled back to her face, his eyes roving over her skin. “What a body you have, Kagome...”

“Kurama-kun...” the miko gasped against him as they kissed. She could feel his hard length again, and her fingers travelled to his zip, releasing him from the tight constraints of his jeans.

“Ahh...” the kitsune gasped, and Kagome hid a grin. It was her turn to please the kitsune.

 

Well aware she was completely naked, Kagome made them swap places, so she was on top. She slipped the kitsune's denims off his legs, and he kicked them to the bottom of the bed.

Kagome's hands ghosted over Kurama's chest as she familiarised herself with his skin, while he looked up at her in awe- particularly at the breasts that were in glorious view as Kagome leaned over him. He cupped them with a groan as Kagome positioned herself on top of him- directly over his very hard manhood. She ground on him with a sweet smile, and Kurama gritted his teeth, his hands gripping her hips. She giggled at his intense expression, before leaning on him completely, and she began to grind on him quickly. Kurama gave a guttural growl, and Kagome leaned further forward, burying her head in the crook of his neck and shoulder, kissing her cheek and nibbling his ear as her wetness rubbed against Kurama's boxers. She knew he loved this, from last time they had been together in his apartment. Kurama was soon panting erratically, his hands squeezing her buttocks, thrusting into her, as her breasts bounced against his chest.

 

 

Kagome knew she was pleasing Kurama this way, but also knew a better way to do it. Kurama never took his eyes off her as she sat back, rubbing his erection through his boxers. The avatar shuddered underneath her.

Kagome finally peeled back the boxers, to reveal Kurama's aching erection. She gripped it with her fingers, pumping slowly at first, but finally picking up the pace, occasionally squeezing the shaft. It was the avatar's turn to moan and twist in the bedsheets, and Kagome loved the feeling of pleasuring him. Kurama gasped as he saw Kagome duck her head, and was soon writhing at the feeling of her hot mouth around his cock. The miko sucked and caressed his manhood with her tongue, still using one hand to pump the avatar at the shaft. Kagome began to move her mouth up and down on Kurama, and though it strained her mouth, she continued to do it- after all, he had pleasured her so many times. It soon paid off, as Kurama growled, and gripping her arm, came into her mouth in a hot squirt, which she swallowed.

 

 

The pair lay in each others arms, catching their breath and smiling at each other.

“You are amazing.” Kagome whispered, stroking the avatar's chest.

“No, you're the amazing one.” Kurama chuckled. He leaned over and kissed the miko, and she embraced him tightly.

“I love you,” Kagome repeated, loving the feeling of the words on her tongue.

“I love you too.” Kurama smiled, his green eyes so soft Kagome felt herself melt into them. They began to kiss passionately, tangled in each others limbs, just wanting to feel each other around them.

“I never thought I could feel this happy...” Kagome admitted, and Kurama gently sucked on her neck. “I owe so much to you, and to Yoko...I don't know how I could have managed these last few weeks without you...”

The avatar kissed his way up the miko's neck, before touching his lips against hers. “Kagome, I should be the one thanking you. If you hadn't came into my life...well, I wouldn't have realised what I was missing...”

The miko pulled away from him to look into his eyes.

“But I've caused you and Yoko so much trouble, and pain...I can't forget that...”

“Kagome!” Kurama raised his voice, which he rarely did, and it made the girl start. “Please, I don't want you to think of any of that! The time we have spent with you has been so wonderful...and it cannot compare to the pain you have suffered these last few years...”

“Kurama-kun...” Kagome felt her eyes well up with tears once more, “I don't deserve...”

But her voice was cut off as the kitsune pinned her down to the bed, clasping her wrists in his hands, and swallowing her words with his mouth. Kagome fought against him, trying to speak, but it was hopeless. The kitsune was too strong, his weight on top of her absolute, though he was mindful of her small frame and didn't put too much pressure on her body as to hurt her.

As their tongues tangles together, Kagome felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Her mind was blissfully blank, not the sort of emptiness she had felt earlier in the night, but the kind which one feels at a moment of pure elation.

Kurama drew back finally, watching the miko as she gasped for air. She was so breath taking, with her hair damp and curling in the heat, her lips rosy from kissing, her eyes bright and dewy. The avatar planted kisses down her naked body, worshipping her neck, her shoulders, her breasts, her stomach.

“You are, without a doubt, the most gorgeous creature I have ever set my eyes on,” Kurama breathed, touching her cheek, “In my past life, and this life...”

Kagome blushed, still unused to the praise. She tried to sit up, but Kurama put a hand on her shoulder, let a soft growl emit from his lips.

“Stay. I'm still looking at you.”

“Kurama-kun!” Kagome protested, her blush travelling the length of her body. She was suddenly self concious. How could she feel beautiful compared to the god towering above her? His scarlet hair was tousled around his face, wild as a fox's tail. His emerald eyes- really, they put the jewels to shame- looked down on her with such an intensity that she had never seen in a male before. It made her shiver all the way to her toes.

Once again Kurama leant down and captured Kagome's mouth in a kiss. His fingers sketched the swell of her breasts, the hour glass of her hips, the curve of her thighs. He dipped once more into her lips, swirling the heat and damp around his fingertips.

“Ah, Kurama!” Kagome protested, wondering how the kitsune still had energy. Then she realised...he was kitsune.

“Relax, anata,” he murmured, gently caressing inside her, causing her to squirm and wriggle underneath him. He licked a pert nipple as he began to thrust a finger inside her one more, and Kagome immediately threaded her hands into his hair.

“Ahh, onegai!”

The kitsune picked up the pace, watching in rapture as Kagome's whole body moved with the rhythm, her breasts shaking up and down, her eyelashes fluttering as he inserted a second finger, really slamming into her, eliciting cries and moans from her mouth.

 

 

Kagome felt ready to black out- this second onslaught of her body was torturous, and Kurama wasn't holding back. He wasn't hurting her- it felt too good for that- but he was going so fast, and Kagome felt herself unravelling, like like a badly tied ribbon.

She was hot, far too hot, and she was going to explode any moment. There was no pleasure quite like this- it was all consuming, setting her aflame, yet she wanted to be engulfed in the fire.

“Kagome...” Kurama kissed her lips, making her open her eyes. She could feel his member hard against her thigh, and she looked deep into his eyes, and saw the pure love there. For once, there was no doubt in her mind, no second guessing or little voice in her head whispering reminders of the past.

Kagome responded with a tilt of her head, trying not to squeal as Kurama gently removed his fingers from her wet heat.

“It won't hurt, I promise...” Kurama told her, taking something out his hair. He put it into his mouth, then kissed her, and it was sweet and sharp, like raspberries. Kagome felt a sudden attack of nerves as the avatar positioned himself in between her thighs, his member fully erect.

“Kagome...” he whispered, leaning over her, touching her cheek, “Only if you want to, my love...”

“Hai...” Kagome smiled, reassured once again by the adoration in his green eyes, “I want you to, Kurama...”

The kitsune smiled gently, and held onto her hips, as he angled himself inside her. At first Kagome felt nothing, then there was the slight pang as he pushed oh so slowly inside her. It almost felt like a grating of her bones, but it was not unpleasant. Kurama stopped as soon as he was fully inside her, and raising her thighs and pulling her legs around his waist. Kagome felt a a slight sting as her body adjusted, but Kurama took her mind off the matter by kissing her passionately.

“If you feel uncomfortable, tell me and I'll stop, alright?” he whispered. Kagome nodded, too in awe to form words. Her and Kurama were joined- as joined as humanly possible for two people to be. She simply lay and watched as Kurama pulled out of her body, before slowly pushing back in. Now he had fully penetrated her, the grinding wasn't as severe. Kagome felt her muscles relax, and she watched as Kurama started up a rhythm of thrusting, and he never once took his eyes away from her own.

Their first experience of lovemaking was a quiet affair...the only sound was their heavy breathing, the creaking of the bed, and the noise of flesh on flesh. Kagome wasn't so naïve that she believed her first time would be like the sex in porn movies, with the woman screaming and writhing. The miko was content to watch the avatar above her, as he controlled the motion of thrusting in and out of her. Kagome wrapped her legs tighter around Kurama, allowing the avatar more access, and she gasped a little as his pushes touched her deeper.

 

Kurama was restraining himself, but it was only natural. It had been a long time since he had slept with anyone in his human body, and most importantly, this was Kagome's first time. They had years for dirty, fast sex. Kurama was making love to Kagome, and although she barely made a sound, he could see the happiness in her eyes. Still, as much as he could control himself, the sheer pleasure of Kagome's tight and slick walls around his member was too much to bare.

The avatar knew from experience it was near impossible to make a female come during her first time, from penetration alone. Adjusted himself slightly, Kurama reached underneath their tangled limbs to Kagome's thighs. He began to rub in between them, matching each thrust with his fingers.

“Ahh!” Kagome finally moaned for him, and although his body groaned to go faster, he was firm in his control. The avatar continued to toy with the miko's clitoris as he thrust into her, and Kagome began to pant, short of breath.

'Kuso, I can't hold back any more...

“Gomen, Kagome...” the kitsune gasped, and he came inside her, his body slumping against her.

 

Kagome was shocked to see anger in Kurama's eyes.

“Kurama-kun, daijoubu?” she asked, touching his head. He had buried his face into her neck, still inside her.

“Iya...” His response made Kagome blink. Was he angry with her? Had she done something wrong? The miko felt her eyes fill up with tears, and she begged the kitsune to look at her.

“Kurama-kun, please tell me, what is it?”

“I couldn't...it was your first time, and I didn't...” a blush crept over the avatar's face, and Kagome suddenly understood.

“Kurama! Don't be silly!” the miko giggled, kissing him.

“Like you said, it was my first time! My body needs to get used to it before I can expect that!” Kurama looked shocked at her conclusion, and the miko giggled again. “I do read women's magazines, you know!”

He still didn't look convinced, and Kagome threw her arms around the kitsune. “Please don't look sad! You just gave me the best night of my life...but I'm sure there's many more to come, ne?”

Kurama blinked, taking in her meaning, before smiling at her.

“Hai,” he replied, enveloping her in his arms.

 

After a quick clean up, Kurama and Kagome went back to bed, finally tired out. The avatar spooned against the miko, his lips nuzzling the back of her neck, his arms securely around her waist. She smelled like him, and he wore her scent. It made the avatar happy, and even more possessive of the little miko in his arms.

“I love you,” he said again, glad to free the words from his heart. Kagome squeezed his arm, kissing his hand.

“I love you too...”

 

The rain continued to pour throughout the night. Hiei had finally made it to his Sakura tree. The pink blossoms had long vanished in the spring, and the many branches hung thick with leaves, yet flowerless. Yet the tree still provided shelter, and Hiei settled in to the centre, and began pondering the images he had seen flash through Kagome's mind.

That hanyou...was the only thing standing between the kitsune and the miko starting a relationship, kuh?

Hiei was about to close his eyes and sleep when a flash of red and white blurred through his almost closed lids. The hybrid youkai immediately jumped up, tearing the white bandanna from his Jagan. The breeze caught it, and it twirled away in the wind, tangling in a higher branch. Hiei's mouth grimaced as his third eye flashed green through the sheet of rain.

'Kuso! It's him!

 

 

Arigato, as always to my readers and reviewers!

 

-MM-

 

Colin12345677: I'm glad you think so! I try to make my writing as vivid as possible! Well, I'm certain you would have enjoyed this chapter then! Thank you very much, please keep reading!

Swasdiva: Ah! So good to hear from you again ^^ Yes, you seem to be good at that still! Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it! I had planned Kuronue's death since the beginning, and it was so sad to write him out!! I do love the guy, but he's still essential to the plot! But yes, I'm glad you picked up on Yoko's silence.

Hehe. Sometimes I get annoyed with this fic, because I'm really trying to write as IC as I can, while still presenting real life problems of those in love. I believe love can be this complicated- and have experienced it myself- when you love someone so deeply but know there is no hope; when you give affection and receive pleasure from other people, and feel connected to all of them. This fic is my attempt to show true human nature (despite the number of youkai involved hehe)- to depict how humans aren't all cardboard cut outs that soap operas would have us believe. Thus, the title, Not the Only One.

Well, hopefully this chapter will have sated you for a while...but hold onto your seat my dear, there's still turbulence a-coming!

Chrystal-Hearts: Thank you, and please keep supporting me!

Icyfire: Thank you! I hope you enjoyed this chapter too!

My3rdeyes: thank you for reviewing!

Madmiko: Hehe! Yes, I think Hiei prefers your fics too mine! Though the fire demon will always have a special place in my heart! At least he gets to save the day in this chapter, ne? He also has a big role in the next chappy!

But yes, poor Kagome! I really do abuse my characters! But I have had days were everything seems to go wrong (as has everyone, I'm sure) and I really want this fic to be fast paced- there will be no fillers from now on, just action and angst as we near the finish line!

Thanks for supporting me all the way, and I look forward to your next chapter too!

NinjaRikku: Thank you, a thousand times thank you! You've got me hooked on the Sookie Stackhouse novels, and now True Blood has came to TV in the UK, I'm addicted to that too! Thank you so much! Hope you appreciate the chappie dedication hehe!

Double Z: thanks for the review!

Rockyroad: I aim to please! Thank you!

Starlet Angel: Thank you! And hope you enjoyed this chapter!

Purp1ebabe: In that case, I hope you really enjoyed this chapter hehe!

Princess of dobermans: I've not decided yet, but there will be one shots for sure!

 

-FF-

reviews responded to by PM. Please remember these take a while to come through!