InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A Light amongst the Darkness ❯ The Rituals of the Inu-Youkai ( Chapter 19 )

A/N: I am ssssssooooooo sorry about the late update. I know you are seeing that I have been updating my other story a lot and it must really piss you all off that I have not updated this story. I have two reasons for it. First off this chapter is very important to the story and I tried my hardest to add in the lemon to this chapter. Unfortunately again I didn't get it in. But I do have good news. While I was writing my other story I really got hooked on ideas for this one. So the chapter finally came together and I will be updating again more often then once every few months.

 

A/N: Second I found out about a three and half weeks ago that my grandfather has cancer. I was not really in the right place of mind to try and write this story. I only updated the other story because I was watching over my grandfather's dog while he was at the doctors and they have a computer. So I wrote to that story and not this one.

 

A/N: Again I am really sorry about no lemon and for not updating sooner. But I did add some fluff to help with the wait. Also to the person that has been personally emailing me telling me to and I quote, `hurry up with the fucking sex' all I have to say is this. This story does NOT center around sex it centres around PLOT. I have been working very hard on making this a very interesting and plot driven story. Sorry everyone that I had to add that in my AN but I have been emailing this person back trying to tell them this and it isn't working.

 

A/N: With that said. There is the next chapter!!! Enjoy! Please review!! Huggles Tal ^_^

 

 

Chapter Nineteen

The Rituals of the Inu - Youkai

 

Sesshomaru stood against a tree watching his surrounds with an air of unease. They had left at first light as per his order but an argument had broken out because his half-brother didn't wish to ride on Shin with the miko. He had insisted that the miko ride on his back as they made their way towards Sorano's resting place. Sesshomaru smirked to himself as he remembered the morning.

 

~~~~~

 

Inuyasha was growling and angry at the miko. She had flat out told him that they needed to get to the mountain as fast as they could and that Shin, Kirara, and Aun were the best modes of transportation. The hanyou was yelling that he could easily out run all of them and that he wanted the miko to ride on his back.

 

“Inuyasha I know that you are used to traveling with me on your back but this is different. The neko and the dragon can fly and that way we can avoid running through the forest. It will cut off a lot of your time by flying.” The miko looked tired and her eyebrow was twitching.

 

“And I say that I can out run them through the forest. So you will be riding on my back and not on Shin's!”

 

“Inuyasha, Kagome-sama has a point. We need to hurry. The attack on the village was proof that we need to make hast.” The houshi had stepped up to help the hanyou understand but his little brother just growled at him.

 

“This Sesshomaru is tired of all this fighting. We need to leave and we are losing the light because of my baka brother. We leave now!” Sesshomaru smirked to himself as everyone jumped as he raised his voice.

 

Kagome called Shin forward and he transformed with a flash of flames. He knelt down and Kagome climbed on his back. Inuyasha growled again and Shin looked at him funny. The miko may not have understood Inuyasha but the neko and he, Sesshomaru, understood the Inu-youkai language. He warned the neko to stop and to let his mate off.

 

Sesshomaru walked over to Inuyasha and, with his newly returned hand, hit Inuyasha in the pressure point at the back of his neck. Inuyasha fell to the ground unconscious and the miko gasped.

 

“Sesshomaru what have you done?!”

 

Sesshomaru didn't answer as he reached down and picked up the unconscious body of Inuyasha and walked over to Shin. He laid Inuyasha on the neko in front of the miko and walked away. “We leave now!”

 

Sesshomaru gathered his youki and a cloud lifted him into the air. Yuki-chan ran after Sesshomaru and jumped up onto the cloud. Sesshomaru smiled to himself softly. This is like when Sorano was with me. She would fly with me and Yuki-chan would sit at the back and play with then tendrils of my youki as we flew over the Western Lands.

 

~~~~~

 

Sesshomaru was brought out of his musings by the sound of laughter. He glanced to the little clearing by where they had planned on camping for the night. There he saw Rin, Yuki-chan, and the little kitsune playing. Rin was dressed in strange clothing from the miko's `world'. She had dirtied her kimono that afternoon as they stopped to eat and the miko said that she had a change of clothes that would probably fit the little girl. Now she was running around in a white `sun dress' that had little blue flowers all over it.

 

Sesshomaru grinned would Rin tackled the kit to the ground and yelled `Tag!' before she jumped up and ran away laughing. Sesshomaru couldn't help but envy the children and their innocent ways. Of course Yuki-chan had seen as much death and destruction as he had but she still smiled and laughed with the others.

 

I was like that once too. But the ningen changed all that. Sesshomaru could feel his blood boiling at the memory of that night. I will never forgive the ningens for what they tried to do. All those who are ningen or have ningen blood are not worthy of me. They are all lying bastards that will betray you faster then I can run!

 

“Inuyasha would you stop that!!”

 

Sesshomaru turned his head and his gaze fell upon the miko, who was trying to build a fire, and his half-brother who looked like he trying to sit on her. He was right up against her back and was nuzzling the back of neck while his hands held her waist possessively.

 

“What!” Inuyasha pulled away and the miko turned to look at him. She looked about ready to purify him.

 

“You are practically sitting on me! And if you smell me one more time I will `it' you until you can't move again!”

 

“What I can't be near you?!”

 

“I don't mind you being near me but I need my space to,” Inuyasha huffed but didn't back up. Sesshomaru inwardly laughed at the scene. Sesshomaru knew what Inuyasha was trying to do. Why doesn't he just tell her what he is doing? I smelt it on her the minute she came back. Inuyasha no baka. Sesshomaru shook his head and closed his eyes. This is going to be interesting. “and it is one thing to be near me but almost rubbing yourself all over me is another. Why don't you go and help Miroku-sama and Sango-chan gather fire wood?”

 

“The don't need my help.”

 

Sesshomaru heard the women sigh. Even with his eyes closed he knew that the hanyou was digging himself into an early grave.

 

“Why don't you go for a bath? There was a hot spring not far from here and when you come back I will have the fire going and your ramen will be ready.”

 

“Bath!” Sesshomaru winced at the volume of his voice. He could only image what it sounded like to the miko, “I don't need a bath! Why would I need one? Are you saying I smell?!”

 

Inuyasha no baka…will you ever learn… “What!!! I don't think that you smell! I do think you need to relax and a nice warm bath would help you to!”

 

“Relax! I don't need to relax! I am perfectly fine! You're the one who needs to relax!”

 

Sesshomaru shook his head and opened one eye. I guess he will never learn and he is disgracing the very race of inu-youkai by not being able to please his bitch. Does he really know nothing about women? Kagome stood up and glared at Inuyasha. He is one dead hanyou… Her miko crackled off of her in waves and Inuyasha yelped as he backed away.

 

“How dare you Inuyasha! I was relaxing until you decided that I didn't need my own space. Then you decided that since I suggested you take a bath that I thought you stink. I was trying to be nice. I was going to make a fire and cook you some ramen because it was long day and I know that you don't like to fly. I was doing all this for you and you act all greedy and want all my attention!” Her miko crackled again and Inuyasha backed up further with he ears down cast, “ And since you don't seem to think that Miroku-sama and Sango-chan need help finding firework then I will!!”

 

Sesshomaru watched as Kagome huffed in anger and threw down the piece of kindling that she was holding. Without another would to Inuyasha she turned and stormed off into the woods. Inuyasha made to follow her but Sesshomaru knew that he was only going to make things worse if he followed.

 

“Inuyasha don't be a complete baka.”

 

Inuyasha stopped and glared at Sesshomaru, “Who asked you to butt into my affairs!”

 

“Your bitch is angry with you and if you follow her she will only become more angered since you tend to put your foot in your mouth.”

 

Inuyasha growled at Sesshomaru but sat down on his haunches, “Like you know how to handle a woman. Keh!”

 

Sesshomaru walked towards Inuyasha. Sesshomaru knew Inuyasha was a baka but he would be damned if his little brother dragged down the name of the inu-youkai by not knowing how to please his bitch.

 

“I not only know how to please my bitch I also know how to treat them. Unlike yourself.”

 

“Keh!”

 

“Inuyasha no baka.” Sesshomaru stopped just in front of Inuyasha and glared at him. “What I am going to tell you Inuyasha is very important. You can either use the information or leave it. But I will not allow you to disgrace the inu-blood more then you already have.”

 

“Keh!!” Sesshomaru looked down at Inuyasha who was looking away but he saw his ear twitch and knew that he was listening.

 

“Now Inuyasha it is your duty as an Inu-youkai, half breed aside, to make sure that your bitch is pleased at all times. You were at fault for your argument earlier…”

 

“I was not! Kagome smells like Naraku! She is to smell like me not him!!! I was leaving my scent on her and…”

 

“She didn't know what you were doing!” Inuyasha cringed and looked away again, “You baka she is ningen and from a different `world'. How was she supposed to know what you were doing? She knows nothing about the traits or behaviours of the inu-youkai. Not to mention you never informed her as to what you were doing.”

 

Sesshomaru smirked at Inuyasha's dumbstruck expression. Now I have his attention. “Now don't interrupt me or this Sesshomaru will relish in beating you to a bloody mess.” Inuyasha rolled his eyes at Sesshomaru but remained quiet, “Now you must apologize.”

 

Inuyasha made to reply but Sesshomaru held up his hand, “It is you fault Inuyasha and if you want her back you will apologize for it.”

 

Inuyasha sat down and crossed his arms across his chest and huffed. Sesshomaru shook his head. His is a stubborn as our father but at least father knew how to apologize to his bitch. “It would be wise to tell her what you were doing to her. And if you can't seem to tell her then let your instincts apologize for it.”

 

“My instincts?”

 

Sesshomaru shook his head, “Don't tell me your human blood is so thick that you don't have inu-instincts. I knew you were a worthless hanyou…”

 

“Fuck you Sesshomaru!” Inuyasha jumped up and leapt into the woods. Sesshomaru knew he was going to go and find the little miko. Sesshomaru shook his head as he walked back towards the children that were playing in the clearing.

 

“Maru-chan!” Sesshomaru looked down at sound of the little light-kitsune youkai.

 

“Yes Yuki-chan?”

 

Yuki-chan sat down and he knew that she wanted him to do the same. Sesshomaru sighed inwardly and followed suit. Sesshomaru knelt down and waited for the small youkai to speak.

 

“Why do you keep calling Inu-chan worthless?”

 

Sesshomaru was slightly taken back by her straight forwardness but it passed quickly. Yuki-chan had always been to blunt for your own good.

 

“That is between me and Inuyasha.”

 

“But Maru-chan I remember a time when you thought the world of Inu-chan. Is this because of that village of ningen that…”

 

Sesshomaru growled and Yuki-chan jumped, “I have told you time and again Yuki-chan that that village is never to be mentioned. It is in the past and that is where it opt to stay.” Sesshomaru tried to keep the bite from his voice but it failed.

 

Yuki-chan jumped up and ran back to Rin and Shippo, who had stopped playing at the sound of Sesshomaru's voice, Yuki-chan stopped and turned around, “ Well if the past is in the past then why are still cold towards ningens and hanyou! Take you own advice Maru-chan and move on! I feel sorry for Sorano-sama; coming back to a cold hearted prince!”

 

Sesshomaru was about to go after her when the smell of tears weaved through the air. He had made Yuki-chan cry. Sesshomaru stood and turned around. He walked into the foliage and cover of the forest. He had a lot to think about.

 

***

 

Kagome trudged further into the forest in hopes of getting herself to calm down. Inuyasha was acting like a complete baka. She had been back about a day and already he was acting strange. Not to mention he wouldn't explain his actions. Wanting to be near me is one thing but sitting on me!! Kagome smiled to herself. Granted the hug and kiss when we met again was amazing it didn't mean that I wanted him to grope me later. Kagome growled out in frustration. And what was with the constant smelling of me? It was driving me insane.

 

Kagome pulled herself from her thoughts as she looked around. She had walked quiet a ways into the forest and since Inuyasha hadn't joined her yet she figured she was safe. Suddenly Kagome sensed a youkai and it was slowly walking towards her. Kagome tensed up when the brush to her left moved.

 

“Kami-sama!! Shin you scared me!” Kagome knelt down and patted her lap. The little silver neko meowed as he ran over and hopped up onto her lap. “What are you doing way out here? I thought you would be with Kirara.”

 

Kagome grinned as Shin blushed. She rubbed his head and soon the only sound heard was Shin's soft purring. Kagome sighed and Shin looked up at her.

 

“Sorry Shin. I was right to get angry with Inuyasha for groping me right?” Shin tilted his head as he blinked up at her. Kagome sighed again and started to rub Shin's head again, “Well ever since I got back from the mountain Inuyasha has been groping and smelling me. It was driving me nuts. Even on our way here he had a vice grip on me. Like you would ever let me fall Shin.”

 

Shin meowed and cuddled into Kagome's hand. Kagome giggled at Shin's obvious answer. “I just wish I could understand him better. The only thing I know about inu-youkai is their mating and even that was hard enough to get out of Sango-chan.”

 

Shin hopped up onto Kagome's shoulder and started to rub his cheek against hers. Kagome giggled again and rubbed her cheek against his in return.

 

“Oh you will let Shin scent mark you but not me!”

 

Kagome screamed as she jumped up. Shin hissed as he fell to the ground from Kagome's sudden movement.

 

“Inuyasha you baka! You scared me half to death. What are you doing here?” Kagome turned around and made to pick up Shin.

 

“Beat it Shin. I need to talk to my Kagome.” Shin huffed at Inuyasha and walked back into the brush. Kagome turned her gaze from Shin to yell at Inuyasha but the look on his face made her jaw drop.

 

Inuyasha's ears were drooped and Kagome could hear him whining. “Inu…yasha…” Kagome started to walk towards Inuyasha however Inuyasha walked right up to Kagome and knelt down in front of her.

 

“Inuya…SHA…” Kagome squeaked as Inuyasha wrapped his arms around her waist and nuzzled his face into her tummy. Kagome stiffened as Inuyasha whined again as he tightened his grip around her waist.

 

“Inuyasha… nani…oohhh…” Kagome bit her lip to stop herself from moaning as Inuyasha gently licked the exposed flesh of her stomach. Kagome was at a loss for words. Suddenly she was aware that Inuyasha was slowly standing up but he wasn't letting go of her. Instead he was simply nuzzling and rubbing his way up her body. Kagome let her head fall back as Inuyasha nuzzled his face between her breasts and rubbed his hands in small circles over her shoulder blades.

 

Kagome yelped softly when Inuyasha reached her throat and he started to whine again, this time even louder. Kagome tried to lower her head but the way Inuyasha was rubbing her throat she couldn't move her head forward. What is he doing? I mean I am truly enjoying all this attention but why is he whining? And why is he nuzzling my throat and the underside of my chin? Kagome's thoughts were interrupted when she felt Inuyasha lick from the base of her throat all the way up to the tip of the underside of her chin.

 

Kagome stood frozen. What is he doing?!?! Inuyasha whined loudly as he pulled Kagome tightly against his body. I have no idea what he is… wait a minute! Inuyasha is whining and nuzzling against me. This must be what inu-youkai do when they want to apologize. Kagome's mind was going a mile a minute as she started to remember that Inuyasha was a dog demon and that meant that he would act like this. Okay the nuzzling and whining means that he wants me to accept him back and the licking of my throat and chin means that he is submitting to me. That's it!!!

 

Kagome smiled to herself and tried to pull away from Inuyasha. Inuyasha grabbed her tighter and growled. Did he just growl… at me?

 

“Inuyasha…”

 

“No.”

 

“Nani…” Kagome tried to pull away again and again he growled. “Inuyasha listen to…”

 

“No!”

 

Kagome placed her hands on Inuyasha's shoulders and started to push Inuyasha away. She needed to see his face. She needed to see what was bothering him. “Inuyasha please look at me.”

 

Inuyasha sighed and let go of Kagome. He stepped back and away from her. Suddenly Kagome felt cold and it wasn't just because she felt warm in Inuyasha's embrace but because he was pulling away from her. His bangs were covering his eyes. Kagome stepped forward but Inuyasha stepped back.

 

“Inuyasha listen…”

 

“I understand Kagome.”

 

“Understand what? What are you talking about Inuyasha?”

 

“ I knew you wouldn't want to be with a worthless hanyou like…”

 

“Don't!!”

 

Inuyasha jumped slightly and looked up at Kagome. Kagome had to blink hard to stop herself from crying. Inuyasha looked lost and alone and she could feel her soul aching to comfort and hold him. “Inuyasha listen to me. I'm only going to say this once and my thoughts will never change.”

 

Kagome walked forward and reached up to cup his cheek. Inuyasha looked away. “I will never think that you are worthless. I think that you are the most amazing and wonderful person I have ever met. I love everything about you Inuyasha. I would never change a single thing about you and I never want a single thing about you to change.”

 

Kagome smiled when Inuyasha finally looked at her. Kagome leaned up and rubbed her cheek against Inuyasha's. Kagome felt Inuyasha stiffen at her sudden movement. She didn't really know what she was doing but it somehow felt right. She was telling him that she was accepting him back. Kagome nuzzled her way to under Inuyasha's chin and when he finally tilted his head back Kagome licked him in the same fashion that he had just done to her. Suddenly Kagome was aware of the fact that she was whining and tilting her head to the side to reveal her neck to him.

 

Kagome gasped when Inuyasha grabbed her and pulled her close as he started to lick and nip at her exposed neck. Kagome wrapped her arms around Inuyasha as she gave Inuyasha full access to her neck. Kagome moaned loudly as Inuyasha sucked very hard on her pulse point. Inuyasha leaned forward and suddenly Kagome could feel the cool grass on her back.

 

Warning bells were going off in Kagome's head. “Inuyasha… wait…” Kagome muttered as Inuyasha started to open mouth kiss her collarbones. “Inuyasha…please we have…mmmm…” Kagome moaned loudly as Inuyasha ran his claws down her sides.

 

“Mine!”

 

“Huh…” Kagome blinked hard at Inuyasha's mumbled words. “We have to stop… Kami!!” Kagome yelled out as Inuyasha ground his hips into hers.

 

Inuyasha growled as he bit into Kagome's neck. Kagome fisted her hands into Inuyasha's haori. Kagome squirmed under Inuyasha's wandering hands. “Inuyasha…” Inuyasha bit into Kagome's neck a little harder and she moaned deep in her throat. “We have… hmmmm… to… ohhhh… stop…!”

 

Inuyasha released Kagome's neck and started to lick at the reddened skin. “Mine…” lick, “Mine…” lick, “Mine…”

 

“I will always be yours Inuyasha but we have to stop this before we go to far.”

 

Inuyasha pulled back and looked into Kagome's eyes. Kagome swallowed the lump in her throat at the look of desire in Inuyasha's eyes. Inuyasha leaned down and licked Kagome's bottom lip. Kagome shivered and licked her lips.

 

“Mine.”

 

Kagome cupped Inuyasha's cheek and smiled, “Always and forever. But I have to remain pure in order to unseal Sorano.”

 

Inuyasha nuzzled into Kagome's hand and slowly nodded in agreement. Kagome smiled as she leaned up and gently kissed Inuyasha. Kagome pulled away and Inuyasha sighed as he helped Kagome to her feet.

 

“Your right Kagome. Come on everyone should be back by now,” Inuyasha turned and started walking back towards the campsite.

 

“Wait Inuyasha,” Inuyasha stopped and glanced over his shoulder, “I have a question to ask you.”

 

Inuyasha raised his eyebrow and Kagome took that as he was listening. Kagome fidgeted with her shorts as she tried to figure out how to word her request. “Inuyasha… uhmm… will you be my… mate?” Kagome glanced up at Inuyasha. Kagome held in a sob at the shocked expression on his face. Sure he had asked her earlier but she wanted to make sure he wasn't having second thoughts. Plus after what Naraku had done… what he tried.... “Gomen. That was stupid of me to ask. I will go back to camp now and make your ramen.”

 

Kagome ran past the still shocked looking Inuyasha. How could I think that Inuyasha would still want to be my mate! Especially after what happened at the mountain and me telling him to stop all the time. Granted he has said that I am his but I think that that is just his youkai blood talking. Baka! Baka! Bak… “Ophff!!” Kagome was so in her own head that she ran head long into something. But what shocked her the most was the fact that she didn't fall backwards. Kagome slowly looked up and into the angry face of Inuyasha. He was holding her still by her shoulders and was glaring at her.

 

“Why the hell did you run away?!”

 

Kagome flinched at the harshness of his voice, “I knew you wouldn't want to be my mate and your expression…”

 

“WHAT!”

 

Kagome jumped, well as much as one can jump while be held down by a very angry hanyou, “You looked shocked and now you're angry.” Kagome looked away.

 

“I was shocked because I wasn't expecting you to ask that and I'm angry because you ran away!”

 

Kagome looked up at Inuyasha and a small smiled spread across her face at his softened expression, “So…?”

 

“Baka! Of course I will be your mate. We decided this a long time ago remember.”

 

“I know but after what Naraku did…”Kagome shuttered and stopped talking when Inuyasha started to growl.

 

“Kagome what Naraku did to you will never keep me from you. I will kill Naraku for daring to touch what is mine. I will…”

 

Kagome raised a finger and silenced Inuyasha. “I don't want to remember that time. Its over and it will never happen again.” Kagome raised her right hand and held it up to Inuyasha. With her other hand she grasped Inuyasha's hand and raised a clawed finger to her palm.

 

“Kagome… wh..what are you doing…”

 

“I know about inu-youkai mating rituals. I know we have to wait to complete the mating but we can blood bond.” Kagome placed Inuyasha's clawed finger to her palm.

 

“Kagome I don't want to hurt you.” Inuyasha tired to pull his hand back but Kagome held him tighter.

 

“Inuyasha I've heard it is very pleasant. I would go through all the pain of the seven hells to be with you.” Kagome smiled reassuringly at Inuyasha. When Inuyasha still looked unsure, touched, but unsure, Kagome leaned up and lightly kissed Inuyasha.

 

Kagome pulled back and smiled at Inuyasha. “Inuyasha will you blood bond with me as one of the rituals of the mating of the inu-youkai?”

 

Kagome gasped softly as Inuyasha started to glow. Inuyasha closed his eyes and when he opened them again they were glowing completely golden. Kagome could feel Inuyasha's youki pulling at her miko.

 

Kagome closed her eyes and let Inuyasha's youki wash over her. Kagome could feel her miko trying to escape. It's attracted to Inuyasha's youki. What if I end up purifying him instead? Kagome's heart clenched at the thought. Suddenly Kagome could feel a warmth coming from her chest. The necklace! That's right it controls my miko. It won't let me hurt Inuyasha. Kagome focused her thoughts back on her miko and suddenly felt warm all over.

 

Kagome opened her eyes and gasped. She could see Inuyasha's youki and her own miko mixing and twinning together. Inuyasha took a step back and growled softly at Kagome. Kagome nodded, somehow she understood what he was asking, and raised her right hand, palm facing Inuyasha. Inuyasha raised his left hand and placed his clawed index finger just below her pinkie finger. Inuyasha raised his right hand and faced it palm out to Kagome. Kagome raised her left hand and place her finger just below his index finger.

 

Kagome's miko wrapped around her finger. Her whole finger started to glow. Kagome heard Inuyasha growl something and suddenly Kagome knew what to do. She was vaguely aware of a burning sensation in her right palm but she was to busy concentrating on the task at hand to pay it much attention. Kagome traced her finger across the palm of Inuyasha's right hand. In the wake of her finger was a deep cut that instantly started to bleed. When Kagome finished she lowered her hand and looked at Inuyasha. Inuyasha moved his right hand and placed it over her right hand, interlocking her fingers with his.

 

Kagome gasped at the overwhelming sensations that were coursing through her. She could literally feel Inuyasha's blood flowing from his hand into hers and through her veins. It was the most incredible feeling she had every experienced. Even with her eyes closed she could see Inuyasha standing in front of her.

 

Kagome swayed and started to feel light headed. But before the feeling could over take her she felt Inuyasha release her hand and pull back. Kagome very slowly opened her eyes and smiled at Inuyasha. She was feeling weak and light headed but was so over come with love for the man before her that she couldn't help but smile even more.

 

“Arigato koishii.”

 

Inuyasha cocked his head to side and gave Kagome a funny look, “For what?”

 

Kagome raised her hand and looked at the tiny little scare that now was on her right palm. It ran from her pinkie finger to the inner corner of her palm. “For being with me of course!” Kagome smiled brightly as Inuyasha `Keh!'. However he still took her hand and led the way back to camp.

 

After awhile Inuyasha finally spoke, “I didn't hurt you did I Kagome?”

 

Kagome tightened her grip on Inuyasha's hand, “Of course not. I rather enjoyed it. I feel you now. I love that feeling.” Inuyasha smiled as they walked the rest of the way back to camp in silence.

 

***

 

Inuyasha held onto Kagome as they flew over the trees as they continued their journey to the mountain of light. Inuyasha was beside himself with happiness. Kagome and he had started the rituals of the inu-youkai and soon they would be mates for life. Inuyasha smiled more as Kagome laughed at the feel of the wind whipping through her hair. Inuyasha could feel her now. Not because he was holding onto her but because he could feel her aura now. She was happy and it was making him happy.

 

Inuyasha wrapped his arms around her waist more and rested his head on Kagome's shoulder. Kagome reached back on placed her hand on his head. Inuyasha nuzzled into her neck and Kagome sighed happily. Everything was coming together. Soon Aneue would be unsealed and then they would be together.

 

Sesshomaru flew up beside them and Yuki-chan yelled out to them. Inuyasha turned his head slightly to look at the light-kitsune that was riding behind Sesshomaru.

 

“We're almost there mina-san!!” Yuki-chan was hanging onto Sesshomaru's leg as she looked off into the distance. Inuyasha followed her line of vision and saw that they were coming closer and closer to a small mountain surrounded by trees.

 

“Wow… I feel such power coming from that mountain.” Kagome wrapped an arm around Inuyasha's that was holding her waist. Inuyasha could feel that Kagome was anxious and he nuzzled her to reassure her.

 

“Oh course you can feel a great power. That is the power of Sorano-sama! She is sending out her youki to keep the seal on Ryuzaburo intact. The closer we get the more you will feel. We will be upon the grates soon.”

 

Sesshomaru turned slightly to look at Yuki-chan as Kirara, Miroku, and Sango came to fly right beside Sesshomaru. “The grates?”

 

“Hai! Hitomi-chan and Sorano-sama created a great… erm… I guess you could call it a village but no one lives there. They created it to keep the area pure. They worked on this place for a year before they started the sealing. I remember Sorano-sama and Hitomi-chan coming here for months on end to work on it. But what I can't wait to see is the sentries that Sorano-sama's father placed at the pathway. I bet they are beautiful.”

 

“Sorano's father helped?” Sango asked.

 

“Well he didn't really know what was going on. He asked me but since I was under order from Sorano-sama to tell no one I didn't tell her father. And he was very angry with me for that. But I could not disobey Sorano-sama. However after she was sealed…” Yuki-chan looked down and it looked like she was going to cry.

 

“What happened Yuki-chan?” Kagome's soft and concerned voice made Yuki-chan smile slightly as she glanced at Kagome. Inuyasha smiled. Kagome could get anything out of anyone with her sweet voice.

 

“After Sorano-sama was sealed her father couldn't sense her presence anymore and became worried. He ascended to the physical realm to try and find her. I was surprised when he came. I had never known him to come to this realm. It was always Sorano-sama that went to him. He asked me what was going on I figured that since Sorano-sama was sealed that it was okay to tell him. So I told him everything and he was beyond angry. I feared for my life.

 

`But he said that his daughter had given all of herself to save these people and that he would honour her still. He decided to create a haven that would protect Sorano-sama. He had light youkai ascend and build sentries and gateways. This way the light youkai would always be able to protect her no matter what time or from what.”

 

“What is a sentry?” Sango smiled when Yuki-chan looked at her.

 

“You will have to see it to know what it is. I would never be able to describe it. I have not scene these ones as I was sealed by the time they were completed. But if the Taiyoukai of the Light Realm had them build then I am guessing that they are a sight to behold.”

 

Suddenly Aun roared and everyone looked to Rin and Shippo. Rin looked a little scared as she looked at Sesshomaru. “Sesshomaru-sama I don't know why Aun did that?”

 

Yuki-chan smiled as she looked from Rin to the forest ahead of them. “He is saying that it is time to start are descend. We can't fly right to the entrance. We would be killed if we tried to enter from the air. This area is pure and is protected. No youkai, ningen or hanyou can enter the grounds of the Mountain of Light.”

 

They all started to descend into a small clearing that was just outside of the surrounding area of the mountain. Inuyasha could feel the fine hair on his neck standing on end because of all the power that was in the area. It was amazing. He had never felt anything like it before. Shin touched down softly and was followed by Sesshomaru and Kirara; Aun had already landed. Inuyasha jumped off of Shin and helped Kagome to the ground. Kagome beamed at Inuyasha.

 

“Thank-you Inuyasha.” Kagome leaned up and lightly kissed his cheek. Inuyasha growled softly back and Kagome giggled. Kagome turned to look at Yuki-chan and she was walking towards the perimeter of the clearing. “Yuki-chan how are we to get to the Mountain if it is so pure and protected.”

 

Yuki-chan smiled and motioned for Kagome to follow her. Kagome shrugged and followed Yuki-chan into the trees. Inuyasha and the group had been walking for maybe fifteen minutes when Inuyasha could see something rippling in front of them. As they got closer he realized it was kekkai and it was a very powerful one. In front of Yuki-chan was a tall pedestal. It was made of white marble and had very strange markings all over it.

 

“Yuki-chan this looks like the pillars that held the items of darkness. Is Sorano's sword within this one?”

 

Yuki-chan shook her head, “Ie it is not. This pedestal is connected to the kekkai. This here is how we will enter.”

 

Kagome walked over to stand beside Yuki-chan. Kagome gasped and instantly Inuyasha was at her side. “What's wrong Kagome?”

 

“This looks so familiar to me…”

 

Yuki-chan's giggles made Inuyasha and Kagome look at her, “Of course it looks familiar. Hitomi-chan has been feeding this image to you in your dreams for a while now. You see the tear shaped hole in it?”

 

Kagome nodded as she turned her attention back to the pillar. In the top of the pillar was a tear shaped hole. It was surrounded with the same strange markings as the sides of the pillar. “Well that hole is the place that you need to place the earring that hangs from your left ear.”

 

Kagome reached up to the earring and gently fingered it. “I have had this so long that it is going to feel weird without it. But if this is the only way to get it then I will gladly do it.”

 

“Come on Inu-chan we need to back up.” Inuyasha looked at Kagome and then at Yuki-chan. He didn't like the idea of leaving Kagome just standing there but it didn't look like he had a choice on the matter.

 

Inuyasha and Yuki-cha backed up and stood beside the others. Inuyasha watched as Kagome reached up and pulled the earring from her ear. She reached forward and placed the earring in the hole and it seemed the air left the area as everyone held his or her breath.

 

Then nothing happened. Kagome sighed and was about to walk away when suddenly the marking on the pillar lit up and strange voices filled the area. They were all speaking a strange language. The air itself started to crackle and hiss with purifying energy. Kagome turned around and stared at the pillar. The area suddenly lit up and Kagome screamed.

 

“KAGOMEEEE!!!!!”

 

***

 

Kagome screamed as she felt the light and power from the pillar wrap around her. She was only vaguely aware of Inuyasha yelling her name as everything went black. Kagome didn't know how long she had been in the dark but suddenly she opened her eyes and was looking at everyone. She tried to move her hand and found that she could move it. Kagome tried to move her mouth to talk but she found that she couldn't even do that.

 

`Kagome?'

 

`Hitomi? Is that you?'

 

`Yes Kagome it is I. I need to use your body for a little while so I can remove the kekkai. I hope that you do not mind. I no longer have a physical body and I need one to remove the kekkai.'

 

`I wish I would have known earlier but I don't see why not. Please explain this to Inuyasha through because I think that I scared him when I screamed.'

 

`Of course.'

 

`Arigato Hitomi.'

 

Kagome fell silent and then her mouth started to move on its own as she slowly walked forward. She could see Inuyasha walking towards her and she raised her hand and he stopped. “Please do not come any closer Inuyasha.”

 

Inuyasha stopped and looked at her funny. “Who are you?!” Inuyasha growled as he looked at her funny. That's my Inuyasha. He knew it wasn't me. Of course the voice coming from me doesn't sound like mine.

 

“My name is Hitomi. I have borrowed Kagome's body in order to remove the kekkai.” Inuyasha growled as he glared at her. “I am to tell you Inuyasha that Kagome is okay and that she is sorry if she worried you. She will not be harmed from this. I just need a physical body in order to remove the kekkai and since Kagome is the one who has the most powerful spiritual powers out of all of you I needed to use her body.”

 

Yuki-chan walked forward and smiled at Kagome. “Wow Hitomi-chan I can't believe that it is you!”

 

“I am merely a memory Yuki-chan. I have long since been dead. However it is good to see you all again. And Inuyasha I am glad that you have grown into a very fine young man. I know how worried Sorano was for your safety when she was sealed away. She will be very pleased to see you.”

 

Kagome turned her body so that she was facing Sesshomaru. Kagome felt herself start to bow towards the Taiyoukai. “Great Taiyoukai Sesshomaru-sama. It is an honour to be in your presence once again. I see that you are in good health. Sorano will be happy to see you as well. But I most give you a warning actually this warning is to all of you.” Kagome waited until everyone was listening before she continued. “Once you enter the lands of the Mountain of Light you must take heed. Only pure thoughts and actions will be welcome. If but one of you have ill thoughts or evil intentions then the sentries of the light will attack and kill you all. Great Lord Haruki created all the entities that protect Sorano. They will allow you to pass as long as you have pure reasons to be within.”

 

Kagome watched as everyone nodded and she smiled. “Good. I will now remove the kekkai and my soul will finally come to rest. I just wish that I could have seen and talked with Sorano one last time.”

 

Yuki-chan walked forward and smiled, “I will tell Sorano-sama what you have done and I am sure that you will meet with her again at another time.”

 

“Hai.” Kagome turned around and raised her hands before herself in pray. Kagome closed her eyes and suddenly Kagome could see Hitomi. She was standing in front of her and she was dressed the same way that she was as the painting in the temple.

 

`Hitomi?'

 

Hitomi smiled as she walked towards Kagome. `A long and hard road lies ahead of you. But I know that you will be fine. Just believe in yourself and your powers and you will be fine. Also believe in the power of the love for your beloved. He will help you in ways that no one will be able to.'

 

Kagome smiled and nodded her head, `I will always believe in Inuyasha no matter what happens. I love him with everything that I am.'

 

Hitomi smiled and walked towards her. `Now I need your help to remove the kekkai. It will take a lot of my energy to remove it and I will need to use some of your power.'

 

`Hai.'

 

Hitomi held out her hands and Kagome took them. She closed her eyes and concentrated on pooling and calling forth her miko. Kagome started to pant as her power was being drawn from her. Kagome gasped as her miko shoot from her.

 

`Arigato Kagome. Be Well.' That was the last thing that Kagome heard as she felt herself falling into the darkness.

 

***

 

Inuyasha was beyond nervous. Kagome had been quiet for a while. He still couldn't wrap his head around the fact that Hitomi had bee talking through Kagome. It was strange and she even smelt different. But what was getting on his nerves more then anything was the fact that Inuyasha could feel Kagome's aura as it flashed and flared.

 

“What power!” Inuyasha looked at Miroku as he stared at Kagome in shock. “I can sense two great powers at work here. I guess that Hitomi-sama is using Kagome-sama's power as well to remove the kekkai.”

 

No sooner had Miroku said this then Kagome started to glow. It was mixture of blue and fuchsia light. Slowly it spread from Kagome and made its way to the kekkai. When it came into contact with the kekkai the barrier flashed and crackled as her miko traveled across and up the kekkai.

 

Inuyasha watched in mixed rapture as the kekkai slowly started to disappear. With a finally wave of power the kekkai vanished. Inuyasha smiled with pride. Kagome had done it. The kekkai had been removed and now they were going to be getting to the mountain to unseal Aneue.

 

Inuyasha gasped as he felt Kagome's aura flash and she started to fall backwards. Inuyasha leap forward and caught her before she hit the ground. “Kagome? Kagome! Wake up! Kagome!!”

 

She looked pale and his youkai blood was screaming at him to wake her up. But no matter what he did she didn't seem to want to wake up. Inuyasha was starting to panic when Yuki-chan came over and placed a hand on his shoulder.

 

“Its all right Inu-chan. Kagome-chan just had to use her miko as well to remove the kekkai. She is just tired. She will be fine. I think that you should carry her. We need to unseal Sorano before the sunsets. She needs to be awakened in the light of the sun.”

 

Inuyasha growled as he smelt Sesshomaru coming closer. “Calm yourself Inuyasha. I am merely helping you get the miko on your back.”

 

“You will not fucking touch her!”

 

Sango stepped forward and knelt beside Inuyasha. “How about I help you get Kagome-chan on your back?”

 

Inuyasha nodded and together the two of them got Kagome on his back and into a standing position. Once Inuyasha was sure that Kagome was securely on his back he started to walk into the now opened field. Inuyasha stopped when he noticed that he was the only one walking into the field.

 

“You guys coming or do I have to do this myself?”

 

Inuyasha didn't wait to hear if they were following as he turned and started to make his way into the field. The field looked like the clearing that they had just been in but something was different. It was as if the air itself was cleaner and purer. Inuyasha inhaled deeply and sighed. It was beautiful even if it did look like all the other forests and clearings that he had been to before.

 

They walked for a long time before the ground slowly started to incline. It wasn't a very noticeable incline but at least they were finally walking up the mountain. “What the hell is that?!”

 

Yuki-chan ran up to stand beside Inuyasha and she smiled. “That is the path to the entrance to the mountain and to where Sorano-sama is sealed. They path will be lined with the sentries of the light. Remember that from this point on all thoughts and actions must be pure ones. If they are not then the sentries will attack us. And believe me they will not care if we know Sorano-sama or not; they will kill us.”

 

Inuyasha nodded as he walked towards the path. He was about to enter the path when he felt Kagome waking up behind him. Inuyasha stopped as Kagome slowly opened her eyes and shifted her weight slightly on his back. “Inuyasha?”

 

Inuyasha sighed in relief, “Hai. Are you okay?”

 

Kagome nodded into Inuyasha's shoulder. “Yeah I'm fine. I feel a little drained but nothing to worry about. You can put me down. I can walk on my own.”

 

Inuyasha didn't really want to put Kagome down but she was already trying to get down on her own. Inuyasha knelt down and Kagome slowly got off his back. Inuyasha growled softly as Kagome rubbed one of his ears as a thanks and slowly stood on her shaky legs. Inuyasha wrapped an arm around waist so she wouldn't fall. Kagome smiled at Inuyasha as he helped her walk up the path.

 

Inuyasha was in awe. Yuki-chan was right. The sentries were amazing. There wasn't really a way to describe them. The best way that Inuyasha could describe them was that they were tall freestanding youkai shaped warriors. They are all stood about twenty feet tall. Each one was dressed in different kimonos and armor. Plus they were all made from the same white marble as the pedestal.

 

“Yuki-chan what are they all holding?” Kagome asked as they continued up the mountain.

 

“They are all holding gateways.”

 

“Gateways?”

 

Yuki-chan smiled as she nodded, “The orbs acts as doorways to the light realm. It is through these that light youkai would ascend. That is if we were a threat. But since we aren't then there is nothing to worry about.”

 

“They are beautiful. Is this how Sorano ascended to the physical realm?”

 

“I am not to sure how Sorano-sama ascended. But I remember the day that she was to leave the light realm.”

 

Inuyasha could hear something and looked over his shoulder. Inuyasha caught Sesshomaru's eye and he quickly looked away. Ha! This is a touchy subject for him. I would so love to rub this in his face but I know we would get into a fight and I know that I would end up having impure thoughts.

 

“Well I can tell by how long the path is that we have time for the tale. That is if you feel comfortable telling us the tale.” Inuyasha looked from Kagome to Yuki-chan.

 

“Hai.”

 

~~~~~

 

“Yuki-chan have you seen my Chichiue?”

 

Yuki-chan looked up from her studies and into the concerned face of Sorano. “Last I saw him he was in the great hall. Is there something wrong Hime?”

 

Sorano sighed as she looked down the hall. “I'm not to sure myself. But I can feel something is happening and it isn't good. I can't really explain it but I know that I need to see Chichiue and ask him if he senses it as well.”

 

Yuki-chan stood up and closed her book, “I could come with you if you like?”

 

Sorano smiled and Yuki-chan beamed, “That would be nice. But remember to act accordingly in front of Chichiue.”

 

Sorano turned and left the great library. Yuki-chan jumped out of her chair and followed after Sorano. They flew down the halls in silence and Yuki-chan felt the nervousness coming off of Sorano in waves. They reached the Great Hall and Lord Haruki was nowhere to be seen.

 

Sorano sighed, “Well it looks like we will have to continue our search. Let's try the Throne room next.”

 

Yuki-chan nodded and followed after Sorano. Yuki-chan was getting nervous. There were no guards posted in the halls and that only happened if something in the physical was a miss. Sorano stopped in front of two very large white marble doors. The doors were covered in cravings of great battles that light youkai had fought in in the physical realm. Sorano reached up and placed a hand on the door. The doors slowly cracked and swung open. Yuki-chan gasped at what she saw inside.

 

There were hundreds of guards within the throne door. They were all in rants and seated on the throne was the Taiyoukai Haruki. Sorano glided into the throne room with he head held up. She was after all the only daughter of the great lord and she was taught that she was above everyone else. Of course Sorano never acted that way unless she was in the presence of her father. As Sorano made her way through the room the guards all bowed low to her. Yuki-chan knew her place and glided in behind Sorano with her head down. She was not to make eye contact with anyone in the room and she was to act the part of a lowly half light youkai. However Yuki-chan allowed herself a little smile. Sorano had always told her that she never thought of her a lowly half light youkai. She was Yuki-chan and she loved her dearly.

 

Sorano reached the throne and knelt down before the lord. Lord Haruki turned his attention from the Shogun that he was talking to and smiled down at his daughter. “Daughter.”

 

“Chichiue.” Sorano stood and glided over to her father, “I wish to speak with you.”

 

“Is something wrong my daughter?”

 

“I wish to speak to you in private.”

 

“My daughter anything that you have to say you can say in front of my warriors. I value your opinion.”

 

Sorano smiled, “Thank-you Chichiue. I am sensing something a miss in the physical realm. There is a great imbalance. I was wondering if you sensed it as well?”

 

The Lord looked pensive as he beheld his daughter, “I have been sensing this imbalance as well. I fear that the time has come to act upon it.”

 

“Hai. That would be wise Chichiue. What guard will you be sending?”

 

The Lord looked away from his daughter and was silent was a time. After a while the Lord sighed and stood. Sorano stepped back and bowed, “I wish to be alone with the Hime. You are to all resume your posts.” With a wave of his hand all the guards and Shoguns left the throne room. The Lord waited till everyone was gone and the doors closed before he turned to his daughter.

 

“Daughter I will not be sending any of my guards or Shoguns to the physical realm.”

 

Sorano snapped her head up and looked at the Lord confused, “But Chichiue if you do not send anyone then how will the balance be restored?”

 

The Lord sighed and this shocked Yuki-chan. In all the years that she had seen the Taiyoukai she had never once heard him sigh or look as tired as he did now. “I will be sending the most powerful light youkai that I know of. I will be sending you my daughter.”

 

Sorano looked at her father with disbelieving eyes, “Me? But Chichiue I am not allowed to ascend to the physical realm. It is forbidden in the laws of the Light.”

 

“And I am the Taiyoukai and I make the laws. There is no one here whose power matches the evil that I am sensing in the physical realm. None but you. I know you are ready my daughter. I know how much you wished to go to the physical realm. I can sense it within you.”

 

Sorano bit her lip. “I am ready Chichiue but I fear what will happen.”

 

The Lord glided down to his daughter and placed his hand to her cheek, “I know that this is hard to understand and this is going to be all new to you. But I know that someone in the physical realm is waiting for you and you two are meant to be together. It is time for you to go and fulfill your destiny. The Items of Darkness will be ready soon and once they are you will leave. Yuki.”

 

Yuki-chan bowed as the Taiyoukai addressed her, “Hai Taiyoukai!”

 

“You will be going with my daughter. You are to protect her with your very life.”

 

Yuki-chan bowed even lower, “As you command. I will protect Hime with my life.”

 

~~~~~

 

Kagome listened to everything that Yuki-chan was saying but something didn't sit right with her. “Yuki-chan how is that the light realm has physical things like a throne room and a library? When I was there it was all but light and orbs of light.”

 

Yuki-chan shrugged, “I am guessing that it appeared that way to you because you do not have light youkai blood. When I first arrived at the light realm it looked something like that. But Sorano-sama helped me hone my youki and soon I saw the light realm as the most beautiful place I had ever seen.”

 

They fell silent as they continued their trek up the mountain. The trees started to thin and the sentries were becoming more and more in number. “I think we are almost at the entrance. The sentries are becoming more and more.”

 

Yuki-chan grinned, “You are right Kagome-chan. The sentries are the only thing that mark the path now and they are showing us the way to the entrance.” No sooner had this left Yuki-chan's mouth then they saw a large circular entrance in the side of the mountain. Yuki-chan laughed as she ran to the entrance. Everyone followed after Yuki-chan. She was standing at the very entrance and when everyone was there she turned around and pinned Inuyasha with a stare.

 

“What are you staring at?!” Inuyasha barked out when Yuki-chan refused to look away.

 

“Inu-chan there is something that I didn't tell you before and think that it is going to come a little as a shock.”

 

“Get on with Yuki-chan. We don't have all day.”

 

Yuki-chan sighed, “Inu-chan can you remember Sorano-sama?”

 

“Huh?” Huh? Is right. What kind of question is that? I mean it took us forever to get here and now Yuki-chan is holding us up by asking Inuyasha such a stupid question.

 

“Did you remember Sorano-sama?”

 

“Not really. Why?”

 

Yuki-chan looked into the cave and then back at Inuyasha, “Well you see Inu-chan when they went to seal Sorano-sama they needed to fill her with pure thoughts and memories and get rid of the bad ones. Well Sorano-sama couldn't stop thinking about leaving you and Maru-chan and it was filling her with bad memories and regret. So Hitomi-chan… she…”

 

Inuyasha growled, “Spit it out already!”

 

Yuki-chan growled back at Inuyasha, “Hitomi-chan erased your memories of Sorano-sama and placed them with the mountain. She needed something that would pacify Sorano-sama's soul and her youki.”

 

Kagome gasped as she looked at Inuyasha. Oh my god! Hitomi stole Inuyasha's memories of Sorano and used them to fill the mountain. But what about Inuyasha? He lost all his memories of the wonderful times that he had with her. He could have used those memories to help him get through some of the hardest times of his life.

 

“Hitomi… WHAT!!”

 

Yuki-chan flinched but held her ground, “She erased all the memories you had of Sorano-sama and placed them within this mountain. I know it was wrong of her but it was only way to help Sorano-sama. She was in so much pain at the thought of leaving you that she couldn't keep her mind focused on the job at hand. So one day Hitomi stole away to the village that you were in and while you were sleeping she stole your memories. Hitomi then informed your mother not to tell you about it.”

 

Inuyasha was shaking with fury and Kagome didn't blame him. But that was not what they needed right now. They needed to unseal Sorano. And then maybe then Sorano herself could explain to Inuyasha better. Kagome reached over and placed her hand on Inuyasha's shoulder. Inuyasha looked at Kagome and sighed.

 

“The reason I am telling you this Inuyasha is because your memories with be reflected upon the walls of the mountain.”

 

Inuyasha looked over Kagome's head and again at Yuki-chan, “Now what the hell are you talking about.”

 

“You will have to see for yourself. Come on.” With that Yuki-chan turned around and entered the mountain.”

 

***

 

A/N: There it is finally!!!! I know I took forever but I am thankful to say that I am finally on track for this story. The next chapter will be coming out soon. I am already half way done writing it. Please Review everyone!!!! Huggles again!!! Tal ^_^