InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A Little Faith ❯ Chapter 19 ( Chapter 19 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Disclaimer: Inuyasha and its characters are created by Rumiko Takahashi, not me, but the new plots and the original characters (Akiyama, Katsuo, Natsumi, Shin, Isamu, Moriko and Eiko) are mine. This fanfiction had been written for entertainment purposes only and without intention of infringing upon any copyright.

A/N: Thanks for reading and reviewing the last chapter. I'm sorry that I haven't replied individually to your reviews this week, but I've been a little busy. Also, thanks for the input for my next story. Majority has gone for anime-based story and the return of the original characters, so I'll plot the story around this!

This chapter is actually only half of the original chapter 19. I could have made it shorter, but finally decided that it didn't feel right, hehe! So after this one, there will be still 4 more chapters to go. Anyway, hope you'll enjoy this one.

A Little Faith by elle6778 - Chapter 19

Then a brilliant burst of light blinded her.

Reflexively, Kagome lunged to the side, throwing her arms around her astonished mother protectively as they sank together to the floor. Squeezing her eyes shut, she tried to ignore the crackle of power around her. A rumbling sound shook the walls and with growing horror, Kagome wondered what she had done.

Then her eyes shot wide open when the familiarity of the power hit her.

The crackling power… It was hers. A fraction of a second later, Kagome felt something rushing into her, filling her to capacity. Kagome's back arched at the intense surge. Her miko power was returning to her, she realized with a mixture of apprehension and excitement. Skin tingling and her entire body tense, Kagome rode out the waves until the last of the pearlescent light seeped into her.

Instantly, everything went eerily silent.

“Kagome…” Her mother's voice was shaky.

Realizing that she was still holding her mother in a death grip, Kagome immediately let go. Slowly, both of them stood up and glanced around the kitchen. Nothing was out of place and it was as if that strange event had not occurred at all.

She would have thought that the whole thing was just a figment of her imagination if she did not feel the familiar warmth in her veins. It was something that she had carried with her everyday while she was in the past. She had also felt it in the present but not to this extent. Which suggested that she had only held some of her miko powers in her body these three years while the rest was kept in the pendant.

Kagome glanced down at the broken pieces, frowning in confusion as she reached out to touch them. It was glowing slightly pink, like it had done when she had first seen it on Katsuo's neck. It must be the remnants of the protection spell, still intact even with the pieces broken.

Anticipation suddenly washed over her as she thought of something. Maybe her memories would return completely if she tried now. Focusing her concentration, she willed herself to remember.

Nothing came to her.

She groaned helplessly. “Nothing…” she muttered.

“It's not returning?” her mother asked. “What was that just now?”

Shaking her head, Kagome sighed. “That was my miko powers but I guess the memories will come back slower,” she said dejectedly. “At least my power is back.”

Everything felt as it should be, with the exception of a distinct sensation of being wrapped up in something. It must be the masking spell, she surmised grimly. The one that Sesshoumaru had mentioned before. Now how was she supposed to get rid of it when she did not even know how it got there in the first place?

Katsuo.

Katsuo must have been the one who had taught her.

She took a step towards the door only to find herself swaying unsteadily. Perhaps it was not such a good idea to go out, she thought grimly. Her body probably needed some rest after the sudden change.

She would find Katsuo tomorrow.

…***…***…***…

Sesshoumaru scowled inwardly as he made his way back to his suite in Akiyama's sprawling abode.

This meeting had taken far too much of his time. The urge to see the miko and his pup was growing unbearable. Even though he spoke to her everyday over the phone, it seemed to be insufficient to quell his need. His only consolation was that Akiyama were unable to see the miko either.

Stepping into his suite, he shut the door behind him.

His attention was immediately drawn to object on the living room table. A grimace of distaste crossed his features as he eyed the face of the titanium timepiece, now swirling with a small portion of Akiyama's youki. It irked him to accept the elemental's assistance but he knew that it could not be avoided. Considering the current situation, it was imperative that he could move freely. As he strapped the watch to his wrist, his claws retracted. Sesshoumaru glanced up at the nearby mirror to find his magenta stripes and crescent moon slowly fading away.

As he sat down, the bold headline of the newspaper on the table mocked him. Picking it up, Sesshoumaru grimaced as he scanned the pages. It had only been a few days since he left Tokyo and it was getting worse by the day.

It reported that the human population was now split into two factions; one pro-demons and the other anti-demons. Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed when he took in the fact that few more demons had been apprehended just last night. Fortunately, none of them were his underlings. Kouga and Takeo would simply have to come up with a way to release them.

Sesshoumaru tossed the newspaper carelessly to one side as he stood up to switch on the television. Instantly, the news channel came on, showing a polite debate between Diet members. Watching intently, Sesshoumaru noted that they were only broadcasting the watered down version of the truth.

From his spies in the political circle, Sesshoumaru knew that the Diet, which comprised of the lower and upper houses of the Japanese political system, were furiously debating the unveiling of demons in Japan. At the moment on the special news programme, one side argued that demons posed a danger, as evidenced by historical documentations which they had once dismissed in the past. The other side argued that demons had managed to live side by side with humans for centuries in peace, albeit under some sort of concealment, hence there was no reason why things could not continue that way.

Sesshoumaru recognized the debater. He was a human whose sister was mated to a demon under the care of Taishou Holdings. It pleased him that the man was attempting to calm the situation, even though he knew that the action was likely to be futile. As long as Naraku was out there, a resolution would not be reached.

Sesshoumaru frowned.

Although Naraku was still out of reach, the hanyou's schemes continued to make themselves known. He had sent a select number of those inuyoukai who used to be his scouts with the instruction to seek and contain those who were affiliated with Naraku and his plans. Who could possibly be aiding the hanyou in his schemes?

Even with Akiyama's, Kouga's and Takeo's resources, they were no closer to finding out the truth. The final meeting between them had happened this afternoon and Sesshoumaru allowed himself to mull over the issues. They had generally agreed that it would be better to warn the foreign lords to keep a tight hold on the situation in their respective countries, just in case this incident in Japan gave them ideas. Due to the urgency of the situation, the conference with the foreign lords had been pulled forward and will take place in a week's time.

It was during that discussion that Sesshoumaru had felt a faint surge of miko power. It was oddly familiar. However, it could not possibly be the miko he knew considering that they were not even in Tokyo.

Absently, Sesshoumaru wondered if the miko and his son would like to join him next week. With everything that was happening, he felt better if the miko and his pup were close by. Leaving them in Tokyo while he attended the conference with the foreign demon lords left a bitter taste in his mouth.

…***…***…***…

Kagome grinned inwardly as she recalled the expression on Shiori's face this morning when she explained why she needed to know where to find Katsuo. It was an understatement to say that Shiori was surprised to find out that she was a miko.

She had thought to call Sesshoumaru but she had no doubt that the taiyoukai would insist that she waited for him to come with her. The last thing she needed was for Sesshoumaru to hover over her shoulders when she was trying to talk to Katsuo. Anyway, considering their relative statuses, it was highly unlikely that Katsuo would talk freely with Sesshoumaru around.

Thankfully, Shiori had Katsuo's information on record, Kagome thought as she watched the houses and apartments speeding by. They were close, she realized when the taxi slowed down.

“We're here, Miss,” the driver declared, glancing at through the mirror.

Kagome leaned forward with a handful of money. “Here. Thank you.” With that, she opened the door and climbed out of the taxi to find herself standing in front of a block of luxury apartments.

Taking a deep breath, she pressed the buzzer which had the word Tanaka inscribed on it.

A female voice came out of the intercom. “Tanaka residence.”

For a moment, Kagome could not speak. The voice on the other side of the intercom belonged to Natsumi. “Is that you, Natsumi?”

Silence greeted her. Then came a hesitant, “K-Kagome?”

Kagome instantly grinned. “You remember me, huh?” Then she heard a sharp inhalation of breath from Natsumi.

“Wait.”

Static came over the intercom and then nothing. A moment later, the door in front of Kagome was pulled open to reveal an astonished blonde inuyoukai.

“Kagome, it's really you…” Natsumi breathed out.

“I guess you and Katsuo are now mated, huh? Seeing that this is the address I got for him.”

Natsumi gaped. “The dreams?” she sputtered.

Kagome nodded. Then she laughed when Natsumi threw her arms around her. “It's good to see you again. Those dreams are just our memories trying to come back,” she explained.

Pulling back, Natsumi exclaimed, “Really? Both Katsuo and I thought we were going mad!” Grabbing her hand, Natsumi said, “Come on inside. He'd be so surprised.”

Laughing, Kagome allowed herself to be led into the building and up a short flight of carpeted stairs.

“Come on in,” Natsumi invited as she entered an apartment.

Stepping in, she was instantly surrounded by a delicious scent of food. It was coming from the kitchen. Just as her eyes went in that direction, a familiar figure walked out, clad in a white t-shirt and jeans. As Kagome watched, the grey-haired hanyou's eyes rounded incredulously as he paused mid-motion in wiping his hands on the apron. He must have been cooking, she surmised, somewhat amused that the strong warrior was actually doing such a domestic thing.

“Look who's here!” Natsumi exclaimed.

Katsuo's mouth opened and shut without a single sound.

Grinning, Kagome walked towards him. “You don't remember me?”

Beside her, Natsumi released a snort. “Snap out of it, Katsuo. It's Kagome. Those dreams are real!”

Katsuo's eyes flickered momentarily and then they narrowed in suspicion. “It's real? How?” he asked. “You don't carry Kagome's scent.”

Natsumi blinked in confusion as she turned around. “Why is your scent masked?”

“You're far too trusting, Natsumi,” the hanyou hissed. Eyes not leaving her, Katsuo pushed Natsumi behind him.

The grin slipped off Kagome's face. He did not believe her, she thought with a sinking feeling. She supposed that it was to be expected. Considering the current situation with the demons, it was not surprising that Katsuo was cautious. She did not have such a hard time convincing Inuyasha, though.

Katsuo's tone was harsh when he snapped, “Answer the question. If you're who you claim to be, then why is your scent masked?”

Grimacing, Kagome said, “Ah… that. Actually, I kind of hope you can help with that. I don't know how I ended up with the mask.”

Wariness emanated from Katsuo as he gave her a hard look. “Who are you?”

Kagome threw her arms up in frustration. “Katsuo, I'm not lying. Tell me how to remove the scent-masking and then you'll know me.”

An indecisive look flashed across Katsuo's features.

Her eyes troubled, Natsumi grabbed her mate's arm. “Katsuo, just tell her,” she said quietly. “Then we'll know, right?”

“What is the worst thing that could happen, Katsuo? You're definitely stronger than I am,” Kagome coaxed. She really needed him to believe her.

His lips thinned slightly. “Very well. If this is a trick, I will not go easy on you, female or not.”

“I remember our training sessions, Katsuo.”

His eyes flickered. Then he gestured towards her. “Do you feel the mask around you?”

Kagome nodded.

“Focus on it. You should find a seam somewhere.” His eyes glinted. “The location is unique to each miko. Tell me where is yours.”

Knowing that she was being tested, Kagome concentrated on it. Soon she felt an area of the mask near her left hand which seemed more fragile. That must be it, she decided.

“My left hand.”

Katsuo blinked in surprise. In a gentler tone, he continued, “Keep your focus on that hand and pull back the mask into it.”

Taking a deep breath, Kagome closed her eyes and proceeded to do as instructed. Slowly she felt the easing of the tightness around her as the invisible film slid across her skin, converging towards her left palm. She heard a gasp from Katsuo but she kept her focus on her task until she could no longer feel the mask.

When she opened her eyes again, Katsuo and Natsumi were standing right in front of her.

“It's really you,” Katsuo whispered.

“I told you,” Natsumi pointed out dryly.

Ignoring his mate, Katsuo asked, “How did this happen?”

Kagome proceeded to explain what she thought had happened with their memories. How she had ended up in the past and had somehow been transported back to the present three years ago. As she continued with her explanation, she watched Katsuo's and Natsumi's expression clear in understanding.

When she paused, Katsuo groaned. “I should have known.”

Kagome frowned in confusion. “Known? But how?”

Katsuo slapped his hand on his forehead. “Kagome, you told me where you were from, but I didn't believe you. I dreamt about it, but it escaped my mind until now.”

Wide-eyed, Kagome gasped. “I told you? Really?”

Katsuo nodded. Then he adopted a thoughtful look. “That pendant and the chain. I gave it to Sachimaru for his first birthday.”

Natsumi gasped. “Is Sachimaru okay?”

“Sachimaru is at home.” Giving Katsuo an apologetic look, Kagome added, “It was only after he broke the chain that the memories returned in bits and pieces. I'm sorry Katsuo but I broke the pendant yesterday.”

“Why?” the hanyou asked, obviously bewildered. “It's meant to protect Sachimaru from harm.”

“I know.” Then she lifted a hand. Concentrating, she allowed a little bit of her familiar miko powers to rise. “My powers only came back to me after I broke the pendant. Most of my powers were locked inside the pendant.”

“How is that possible? It shouldn't do something like that. No one can tamper with it unless they possess miko powers,” Katsuo exclaimed.

Kagome shook her head. “I don't know.”

Natsumi glanced at Katsuo. “There wasn't a miko around at that time except Kagome, right? At least, not one near us.”

“It's odd,” he muttered.

A ringing sound pierced the air suddenly and all three of them swung around to the source. The telephone mounted on the wall near them was ringing.

Kagome watched silently as Katsuo picked up the cordless phone. She was a little wary of phones nowadays, considering that each time Sesshoumaru picked his up in her presence, something had gone wrong.

“Yes, Mr. Taishou,” Katsuo said into the mouthpiece.

Kagome's eyes widened. It was Sesshoumaru on the other end of the line. From the way Katsuo was listening, she could only guess that he was being told something quite serious. But then again, Katsuo was always serious when Sesshoumaru was around. And all those time five hundred years ago, she had only ever seen Katsuo being respectful towards Sesshoumaru and never as friendly as he was with her. A small smile crossed her lips. Some things just never changed.

“I've just found out that the dreams were real.” A short pause followed before Katsuo continued, “Kagome came to see us.” Another pause followed. “Yes, she's still here.” Katsuo nodded and then said, “I will carry out your instructions.”

Lifting the phone away from him, Katsuo turned. Extending the phone to her, he said, “Mr. Taishou would like to speak to you.”

Surprised, Kagome took the phone from him and pressed it to her ear. “Sesshoumaru?”

“Miko.”

She glanced at her two friends, who were staring at her inquisitively. Couldn't they be a little more discreet about their curiosity? “Uh… How are you?” she asked, feeling somewhat uncomfortable. She shouldn't be, considering that he practically called her everyday. Having her friends staring at her like that was a little unnerving.

Natsumi obviously sensed her discomfort because she quickly pulled Katsuo away into the kitchen. Kagome relaxed slightly.

“I am well. Is everything fine with you and Sachimaru?” Sesshoumaru queried.

She wanted to tell him everything, until she realized that she wanted him in front of her when she broke the news of her powers. “We're okay. How long more are you going to be in Hokkaido?”

“I will return tonight. I shall see you then.”

“But what about your markings?”

“It is concealed for the moment.”

“Oh,” she murmured slowly. She did not realize until now just how much she preferred for him to wear his natural features. Still, it could not be helped.

“You are displeased?” He sounded amused.

Kagome sighed. “I guess it's nice to see your markings again. Oh, by the way, I've got a surprise for you.”

“Is that so? What is the nature of this… surprise?”

“It won't be a surprise anymore if I tell you, right?”

“Very well.”

Kagome was smiling when she hung up.

…***…***…***…

The shrine steps loomed before him. Too impatient to walk up, Sesshoumaru glanced around to ensure that there were no witnesses before he transformed into his orb. In a fraction of a second, he was at the front door.

The moment he took on his corporeal form, Sesshoumaru froze.

It was faint but there was no mistaking the scent reaching his nose. All at once, everything that was the miko and his son crashed over him, making him realize that his feelings were more intense that he had realized. Visions of the past bombarded his mind, reminding him of every thing he had felt each time he held the pregnant miko's body close to him. His lips lifted slightly in remembrance. Ever since his younger self had discovered the truth and come to his senses, the dreams had been less aggravating.

The door swung open to reveal the miko. He could only stare at her wordlessly as her familiar peach scent enveloped him fully. He knew who she was without her scent but its return has the effect of sending warm tingles of recognition in his senses. When did this happen? How did this happen?

“Sesshoumaru,” the miko greeted cheerfully, completely unaware of the mayhem within him. “Come in. I'm almost done.”

“Demon begone!” the old man yelled, brandishing a handful of ofudas in his face.

Sesshoumaru instantly streaked away from the disturbing human.

“Jii-chan!” the miko admonished.

“Sesshoumaru-san,” the miko's mother greeted briefly before disappearing back into the kitchen.

A smaller version of the miko peeked around the kitchen door, wearing a look of wonder. He must be her brother, Sesshoumaru surmised. “So, you're that demon, huh?” the boy remarked.

“I'm a demon too!” Sachimaru declared, running down the stairs.

Sesshoumaru simply blinked at the commotion. He did not expect his presence to throw the household into chaos. However, considering that this was the miko's home, perhaps such occurrences were considered normal. It would give one a certain perspective of how the miko turned out to be the way she was.

Sesshoumaru inhaled deeply, allowing Sachimaru's scent to fill his senses and in turn, enhancing the warm glow in his chest. “Are you prepared?” he asked the miko calmly as he bent down to run his hand over the silver head of his beaming son.

Returning with a pair of black sandals in her hand, the miko nodded. Turning around after she had slipped into her sandals, she held a hand out to the pup, who gave her a smile before he took the proffered hand. Gesturing around her helplessly, she said, “Sorry about... you know. We can go now.”

“Hn.”

As they walked down the shrine steps, Sachimaru bounded ahead of them at an admirable speed. There were so many questions he wished to ask her that for a moment, he did not know how to begin. Then he finally settled for the most obvious.

“Your scent has returned,” he remarked.

She turned around, flashing a grin at him. “You noticed, huh?”

“Indeed.”

She looked up at him with a shining pair of brown eyes and to Sesshoumaru's astonishment, his heart lurched. The potency of her scent was inflicting significant impact on his person. In an odd way, he felt as if all his senses were tuned to it. Then he stilled when he noticed something else. He had been so caught up with her scent that the faint pearlescent hue around her body had failed to register until now. He had been away for a few days and she had somehow managed not only to regain her strength but also her powers?

“Your miko powers as well.”

She nodded vigorously as they stepped up to his car. Sachimaru was already there, waiting impatiently. As he let them into the car, Sesshoumaru said, “Explain.”

When she recounted how she had broken the pendant and later, sought Katsuo to help her remove the masking spell, Sesshoumaru's eyes widened in shock. With a jolt, he remembered the flare of miko power while he had been in the meeting. He knew that she was strong but she was stronger than he had realized if he could feel her all the way from Hokkaido.

It was clear that the pendant had been used to contain the miko's power to provide the chain with the necessary power to suppress everyone's memories. As far as he knew, only mikos were capable of infusing a spell within objects, as well as a handful of demons.

His eyes narrowed when he realized that Akiyama was one of those demons. Could it be that Akiyama was the one who had tampered with their memories five hundred years ago? Why should he? Besides, Akiyama himself had suffered from the memory loss. Unless of course, he was simply faking it. Still, it did not make sense. If Akiyama truly retained his memories, he would have approached the miko long before. Why wait three years to make his move?

Realizing that he would not have his answer until their memories returned fully, Sesshoumaru frowned. He disliked waiting. However, it would seem that he did not have a choice.

…***…***…***…

Soon after dinner, Sesshoumaru decided to bring them to a small, protected forested area at the outskirts of the city. With no access allowed to the public, the reserve has retained its natural beauty.

Walking along the bank, he watched the surface of the lake as it glittered under the moonlight. The miko steps were soft as she walked beside him in companionable silence while Sachimaru ran some distance ahead. The pup would be safe, for he did not sense any threat in the vicinity.

“By the way, I went to see Inuyasha yesterday.”

He raised a brow. “Is that so?”

She smiled. “When I saw Inuyasha the first time when I was temping, before I knew who he was, I thought that Sachimaru might be the son Inuyasha had with some random girl who decided to abandon him.”

“He's not Inuyasha's son,” Sesshoumaru declared with absolute certainly.

“How can you be so sure?” she teased.

Surely the miko was jesting. “The mark on his forehead is similar to the one my mother possesses.”

“Oh yeah, I forget sometimes that you don't share the same mother.” She frowned. “I vaguely remember hearing something about Inuyasha's past but now it's not clear in my mind. The memory thing is annoying.”

“Have you attempted to force it to return?”

“I tried that last night but the flashes are all broken up and I couldn't make sense of it. The dreams are still coming every night, though. So I think I'm just going to wait until it all comes back instead of trying to force it.”

“What is the last thing you remember?”

She flushed and looked away.

Sesshoumaru prompted impatiently, “What was it?”

She laughed uncomfortably. “We were on your cloud and you… erm…” she faltered into silence and looked away, lengthening her steps as if to escape him.

Reaching out, he closed his fingers around her arm. She immediately stilled but kept her eyes averted. Whatever the dream was, it could not be pleasant. At least not as pleasant as the one he had experienced a few nights ago. His eyes immediately went to her lips, wondering if she still tasted the same. And whether or not she would moan breathily against him as he nipped her pink flesh.

Noticing the rising heat in his body, Sesshoumaru forcibly pulled away from the memory. Much as he wished to taste her again, he needed to focus on the miko in front of him instead of mulling over the past. Then he frowned when he recalled the miko mentioning his cloud just moments ago. Could it be that the same memory had returned to her last night?

“Miko,” he prompted, suppressing his amusement. “You may tell me.”

She lifted her eyes. “You kissed me,” she admitted quietly. “You probably don't remember.”

He tensed. Why should she think such a thing? “I remember, Miko.” His voice was quiet.

Her startled eyes shot up to his. His gaze immediately landed on her parted lips. He did not consider his action. He simply reacted.

Fingers tangling in her hair, he pulled her unresisting form closer. She sucked in a sharp breath just as he lowered his head. His mind instantly clouded with desire the moment his lips touched hers. Growling low in his throat to match the soft whimper from hers, he deepened the kiss, delving in with his tongue to caress hers. Her teeth scraped his lips as she responded passionately.

Her blunt fingers were digging into his back, making him wish that there were nothing between them so that he could feel her skin. Blood roaring in his veins, he dragged his lips away from hers only to begin a slow descend down her jaw to her neck. Her pulse throbbed against his tongue as he licked it and her breathy moan brushed his ears. Thick and sweet, the scent of her arousal invaded his senses.

A shiver of yearning ran up his spine as he grazed his fangs on her skin. His mind was filled with nothing but the urge to mark her as his. Perhaps he should. Then the miko would have no choice but to accept him as a mate. And this time, he would not be so foolish as to break the bond. The infuriating elemental would then have to stay away from his miko.

Indecision coursed through Sesshoumaru when Akiyama's words broke into his haze. If he marked her now, he would not be allowing her a choice. Did he really want to do such a thing?

Sesshoumaru pulled back slightly, gritting his teeth as he fought to control himself. No, he would not make the same mistake again. The stakes were too high.

“Sesshoumaru?” the miko whispered huskily.

He shifted slightly to nuzzle her ear. His voice was strangely ragged when he said, “I wish to continue this. But if I do, you might be displeased at the consequences.”

“Oh.”

Sesshoumaru lifted his head to look into her confused eyes. His entire body instantly protested at being denied fulfillment. The miko did not seem that pleased either.

As he glowered inwardly, a breathless Sachimaru raced towards them. Holding the miko securely by his side, Sesshoumaru turned around. His irritation instantly dissipated at the bright gleam of excitement in his son's eyes. It was just as well that the pup has returned. This was hardly the appropriate place to mark the miko, especially without her consent.

Sesshoumaru's lips twitched as Sachimaru began to tell them about the wildlife he had spotted. Sesshoumaru did not recall being this active when he was a pup. Sachimaru must have inherited this trait from the miko. Glancing at her, he noticed that she was wearing a thoughtful expression. Realizing that she must be mulling over their earlier kiss, he decided that it would be wise to distract her from over-thinking the situation.

He placed a hand on her shoulder and said, “I have to take leave on a trip next Wednesday.”

She blinked up at him, as if his words had not registered. Then her eyes cleared. “Oh? Anywhere interesting?”

“It's for business. The meetings are set up on a private island. But I would like you and Sachimaru to come with me.”

As the miko's eyes widened, Sachimaru gasped in excitement. “Really, Sesshoumaru-san?”

“Hn.”

“Okaa-san, please say yes!” Sachimaru urged, bouncing on his feet.

The miko glanced between him and the pup. Slowly, a wry smile formed on her lips. “You two are ganging up on me. Again.”

Sesshoumaru smirked. “Indeed.”

As it should be. He wondered if the pup remembered him subconsciously. After all, they shared the same blood and perhaps his inuyoukai senses have picked up on it. His inhaled deeply, allowing the signature scent of his son to flood his senses once again.

Instantly, a certain memory flashed across his mind.

…***…***…***…

The pup would arrive very soon and Sesshoumaru was filled with a feeling of anticipation. He could now sense the pup's scent, telling him what he already knew, that the miko was carrying the heir of the Western Lands. However, today it was particularly strong, mixing in with the miko's own peach scent.

“Stop sniffing me.”

Sesshoumaru stilled. It was only then that he realized that his nose was buried in the miko's hair. She was seated on his lap for her usual backrub, a ritual which they had adopted every evening before she went to sleep.

She shifted slightly to look over her shoulders at him and Sesshoumaru had to will himself not to react to the sensation of her curvaceous body rubbing against him. As of late, he had been experiencing many of these inexplicable urges. Could this be simply due to the fact that the miko was the mother of his pup?

“Miko, be still,” he cautioned as she moved on his lap.

Rolling her eyes, she returned to her previous position.

As he rubbed her lower back absently, Sesshoumaru allowed himself to mull over their odd relationship. He realized that he was attempting to carry out the duties required of a mate, albeit the non-sexual aspect of it. Strangely enough the notion did not unsettle him.

What unsettled him was the Northern Lords frequent visits to the Western Lands. The Northern Lord seemed to have developed an unhealthy obsession towards the miko. Instead of the waning interest that Sesshoumaru had expected, Akiyama seemed to have grown much too fond of appearing in the Western Land uninvited. It had happened regularly at least twice every cycle of the moon.

Sesshoumaru glowered inwardly when it occurred to him that Akiyama would not have done so if he had refused the elemental the right to court the miko in the first place. At this point, he could no longer stop the elemental from courting her. Unless of course, he wished to battle the elemental. Such a thing would no doubt throw the North and the West into chaos, considering that they were equally powerful.

Was the miko worth the risk?

He glanced down at her, noting that she had fallen asleep. Carefully, he shifted her off his lap to place her onto the futon. She made an snuffling noise as she turned to her side, eliciting an odd feeling of warmth from him.

Battling with Akiyama has its appeal. However, the rational part of him pointed out that it would be a foolish undertaking.

If the courtship were to be halted, it would have to be by the miko. Perhaps once the pup was born, she would see that it was inappropriate for her to continue with the courtship.

…***…***…***…

Kagome bit her lips as she waddled next to Akiyama. She was getting uncomfortably big, she thought irritably. Walking Akiyama to the gate to say goodbye was no longer an easy task. But she refused to sit down all the time as if she was an invalid.

“This is not necessary, Kagome,” Akiyama said with a frown, pausing halfway between the castle and the gate. “You should not be walking about in your condition. Let me bring you back.”

Swatting his hands away, she rolled her eyes. “At least I have some privacy now that everyone knows that I can barely walk, let alone run away. As if I can run away anyway. Sesshoumaru would just sniff me out and bring me back,” she muttered. “It's just not fair, him and the rest being dog demons.”

“Yes, it is that which gives them such an advantage over other demons. I would not be able to track you in such a manner.”

“Aren't you at a bit of a disadvantage?” she asked curiously.

He chuckled. “I possess other strengths.”

“Like what?”

“You are certainly nosy,” he remarked wryly.

She gave him a baleful look. “Are you going to tell me or not?”

He tilted his head to one side as he regarded her thoughtfully. “My influence is different as I can exert power over all forms of water and water-based creatures. I am also gifted with empathy.”

Kagome's eyes bulged. “You can read my thoughts?” she exclaimed, aghast.

Chuckling, he shook his head. “No. It's not quite that simple. I think it's better explained by example. With his enhanced hearing and sense of smell, Sesshoumaru is able to speculate on someone's emotions from their heartbeat and the scent one emits. In some ways, I can achieve the same thing by keeping my mind open so that I can understand one's emotion.”

She frowned. “I'm not sure I understand. It sounds awfully complicated.”

“Perhaps it is,” he said, looking at the gates. “You better go back in now.”

Kagome turned to face the castle. “I guess.”

“I will visit you again when I can,” he said, leaning down to brush his lips softly against her cheek. “Until then, make sure you take care of yourself and the pup.”

She squeezed his hand. “I will.”

She watched as his figure grew smaller and smaller before she turned away to walk back to the castle. Her progress was infuriatingly slow.

Sesshoumaru suddenly appeared, startling her.

“Sesshoumaru?”

His expression completely blank when he asked, “The Northern Lord has left?”

She nodded.

Without another word, he lifted her into his arms and streaked across the castle to his study. Kagome's eyes shot wide open as she stifled her gasp. Soon, she found herself being lowered down to a new pile of cushions at the corner of his study where the bound scrolls were kept.

“Um, Sesshoumaru? Can I go back to my room?”

He barely glanced at her as he settled back behind his low table. “The pup's birth is imminent. It is best that you remain close.”

She blinked. He sounded almost… concerned.

Sesshoumaru had been treating her a lot better recently. He was attentive but he did not smother her. He had also stopped being as cold to her, instead reverting back to how he had treated her before they found out about the solution to break the mating bond.

It was an understatement to say that she was a little bewildered by Sesshoumaru's change in attitude. It was odd because he had been nothing short of icy towards her after he had found out that she was pregnant. After his sudden cold indifference, his attentiveness was rather unnerving. Like today, it was as if he had been watching her. How else could he know that she was finding it difficult to get back to the castle?

Should she be suspicious of his motives? She shrugged, deciding that she could always ask. It was not as if she held her tongue around him.

“Sesshoumaru?”

He looked up from the table, raising a questioning brow.

“Why are you so nice to me?” she asked, wondering how he would take the question.

He stiffened visibly in response. Then his eyes became shuttered. It was a look which she recognized. The one which told her that he had no intention of answering her. Irritated, a scowl crossed her face.

“Oh come on, Sesshoumaru. You didn't think I wouldn't notice, did you?” she prodded.

He gave her a steady look, but remained silent.

“You know I'm not going to stop until you answer me,” she persisted.

“You will not wish to know.”

“Obviously I do or else I wouldn't be asking, right?” she shot back.

“Hn.”

She sighed in frustration. “Please?”

He stood up and walked towards her. Her gaze followed him until he knelt down beside her. Their eyes locked, and Kagome felt her breath hitch at his proximity. She had thought that her body's reaction to him had come from the mating bond. But the mating bond was gone and she still felt the same heat rushing through her veins at his closeness. She felt it every night when he gave her the backrub and there was no mistaking her reaction when he had kissed her that time.

She grimaced inwardly. It was growing increasingly clear that she held some attraction towards him, but when did it begin?

Without breaking eye contact, he began, “This Sesshoumaru did not know who sired the pup until recently.”

Her brow furrowed with confusion. “What do you mean?”

His eyes flickered. With obvious reluctance, he continued, “Until a few weeks ago, this Sesshoumaru thought that Katsuo could have sired the pup.”

Kagome gasped. “You thought that Katsuo and I…”

There was a strain in his voice when he said, “It had been brought to this Sesshoumaru's attention that such was not the case.”

“You couldn't have just asked, right?” she snapped, growing increasingly agitated.

“Miko…” he growled, looking unsettled.

All this time, he thought that she had sex with Katsuo. A coldness washed over her when she realized that the only other time Sesshoumaru had been so nice was just before the mating. After that, he had turned so cold on her even to the extent of trying to make her have sex with Katsuo. Although she had hoped that he had not intention of making her do it for real, now she was certain that he had fully intended for her to go through with it. Katsuo had been right in that Sesshoumaru did not know that other forms of betrayal could break the bond.

What sort of person did that to another? He obviously did not care for her. And the only reason he was being so nice was because he wanted his child to remain in the Western Lands. This whole thing had nothing to do with her. She was simply someone he used to get what he wants. The kiss had only been something he used to prove a point.

She withdrew into herself. A pain similar to what she had felt when the bond broke returned to her, causing a lump to form in her throat. Calm down, Kagome, she told herself. This could not be good for the baby.

It was aright, she told herself as she took a deep breath. She just has to be more careful around him. It was up to her to make sure that she did not do something stupid like trust him or fall in love with him.

…***…***…***…

The fact that the miko was sufficiently intelligent and eloquent to hold his attention during their heated debates had always astounded Sesshoumaru. At that very moment however, he only wished that she would restrain her tongue and simply obey.

“I'm not moving, Sesshoumaru! It hurts!”

“Miko, you cannot give birth this pup in the hotsprings,” he gritted out impatiently.

“Don't look this way! I'm not dressed.”

He took a deep, calming breath. She was behaving as if he had not seen her nude prior to this day. He would deign to be patient with her, considering the circumstances. However, patience would do her more harm seeing that their pup was ready to come into the world.

“Do not be foolish, Miko. You will harm yourself and the pup if you do not remove yourself from the hotsprings this instance.”

“It hurts,” she moaned.

Deciding to take matters into his own hands, Sesshoumaru stepped into the hotsprings, uncaring that his kimono was quickly becoming waterlogged. The miko needed to be brought to her chambers before she harmed herself and their pup. When he reached her, her eyes were squeezed shut, her arms clutching her swollen stomach.

She only offered a whimper of distress when he wrapped his arms under her and launched both of them into the air. Landing on the bank, he streaked swiftly to her chambers. By now, she was gasping for air and her hands were fisted tight around the front of his kimono.

Out of the corner of his eyes, he noted Inuyasha's approach. The hanyou had only returned from one of his quests to locate Tetsusaiga a few days ago. Inuyasha halted in his steps as he took in the form of the miko.

“Summon Natsumi and the midwife!” Sesshoumaru barked as he pulled the miko closer to him, mindful that she was nude.

Inuyasha's eyes widened in comprehension before he disappeared.

Soon, the miko was enclosed in her chambers with Natsumi and an elderly inuyoukai midwife, leaving him and Inuyasha waiting outside. Sesshoumaru could hear the miko's groans of pain and each time she called out, he felt an answering twist of distress in his chest.

“Stop pacing already! You're giving me a headache!” Inuyasha snapped.

Sesshoumaru snarled at the hanyou. He could still hear the noises from inside her chamber and it was making him increasingly edgy. His mind told him that she and the pup would be fine but his instincts clamored for him to observe for himself that that was the case.

“Kagome is strong, alright. So quit worrying,” Inuyasha said gruffly.

Swirling around, Sesshoumaru leveled a disdainful look at the hanyou. “This Sesshoumaru is not worried.”

Inuyasha smirked. “Sure. I believe you.”

Deciding to ignore the infuriating hanyou, Sesshoumaru swung his attention back to the closed shoji screen. What was taking them so long?

The moment Sesshoumaru heard a squeal and a cry from the pup, he shoved the shoji screen to the side and strode in. His gaze immediately went to the miko holding a small body bundled in a white cloth. Sweeping past the two demonesses, Sesshoumaru went to the miko's side.

“Leave,” he told the midwife and Natsumi without taking his eyes off the pup.

He could not see much of the pup except a pink, scrunched up face and a shock of silver hair but he could sense the youki flowing from the small form. The pup was male, Sesshoumaru realized. Not only that, the pup appeared to be more demon than human, based on the youki surrounding him, threaded by a faint tinge of miko powers. This pup would no doubt be powerful.

And the pup was his.

His eyes went up to meet the miko's glistening brown ones.

“Sesshoumaru. Meet Sachimaru, our son,” she whispered.

He reined in his surprise. She named their pup? Did she not know that it was customary for the sire to name the pup? However, the joyful light in her eyes prevented him from admonishing her. It did not mean that he agreed with her choice. Sachimaru was certainly not an appropriate name for a warrior. Still…

“The name is acceptable.”

…***…***…***…

They were at it again, Kagome thought indulgently as she followed her son's progress across the courtyard.

Sachimaru was on his hands and knees, crawling at an unbelievable speed towards his father. Sesshoumaru simply walked on, pretending as if he did not know Sachimaru was behind him even though Kagome knew fully well that the taiyoukai was completely aware of his son. They were having one of their playtimes.

Sesshoumaru was a wonderful father. Anyone could tell that he was completely enamored by Sachimaru from the way his eyes gleamed with love whenever they landed on Sachimaru. The best thing was, Sesshoumaru participated fully in everything that involved his son.

Kagome could not have imagined a better father for her son.

The only mar in the perfect picture was that she was not his mate. It was as if she was simply a breeder, someone who had supplied Sesshoumaru with his heir. She bit her lips, deciding that perhaps that was not a fair assessment on her part. Maybe she was just irritated that he did not want more.

After all, Sesshoumaru had not excluded her in anything they did. In fact, he had not stopped being `nice' to her.

It was her who still held some reserve towards him after that conversation few days before she gave birth to Sachimaru. She was scared of his effect on her and she knew it. Still, she could not help feeling wary of him. Too many things had happened between them for her to trust him fully.

Glancing up at the blue sky, she sighed. What should she do now? Sachimaru was obviously attached to his father and there was no way she could leave without her son. Did that mean that she would have no choice but to stay in the Western Lands? But she missed her mother, grandfather and her brother. She wanted them to see her son. But was that even possible? Could Sachimaru go through the well in the first place?

What about Akiyama? He was still courting her all these months and she had to admit that she held some affection towards the elemental. But was it enough for her to go with him to the Northern Lands? What would happen to Sachimaru if she decided to accept Akiyama? Would Sesshoumaru be content with the idea of Sachimaru splitting his time between his two parents?

Somehow she did not think so.

Such a thing was more frequent five hundred years in the future but it was probably unheard of in this era. Even then, the idea left a sour taste in her mouth. Something about it simply was not right.

She sighed heavily, deciding that she was thinking in circles.

Maybe she should just stop thinking about it and go with the flow. If she had to stay, then she would stay.

For Sachimaru's sake.

…***…***…***…

Sesshoumaru watched the miko silently from his seated position behind the low table. Cushioned by soft pelts, she was cooing softly at Sachimaru as she fed him. The loose silk sheet draped over her shoulders and around the pup's head prevented Sesshoumaru from seeing any exposed part of her body but the presence of his pup was enough to satisfy him.

The miko had balked at the notion of feeding their pup in front of him. She had only relented when Sachimaru refused to feed without his presence. Sesshoumaru allowed a smirk of satisfaction to lift his lips. His pup's actions had pleased him immeasurably.

Despite the growing bond between him and Sachimaru, Sesshoumaru could not help but notice that the miko was distancing herself from him. Something about the miko's manners had persisted in disturbing him for the last few days and it was only now when Katsuo had walked in that he realized what it was.

The miko had withdrawn from him ever since that conversation he had with her some weeks ago, just before Sachimaru was born. His lips thinned. At that time, the miko's question had discomfited him more than he had anticipated. He had told her the truth then but now he wondered if it was wise of him to do so. It had been clear from her shuttered expression that she disapproved of his assumptions that she and Katsuo had coupled.

Katsuo's voice drew him out of his contemplation. “Lord Sesshoumaru?”

With barely veiled annoyance, he bit out, “Yes?”

“Shin had been brought back injured just a moment ago. He was ambushed by a group of demon slayers.”

The miko gasped from the end of the study, her eyes betraying her concern. “Is he alright?”

Katsuo's expression belied his concern. “It will be good if you could go see him soon.”

The miko immediately detached their son and covered herself. “I'm sorry, little one. I'll be back soon.”

His pup whimpered in dissatisfaction as she stood up and walked towards him. Sesshoumaru reached up as the miko placed the wriggling pup in his arms before she rushed out. Rubbing the behind the pup's ears, Sesshoumaru waited until Sachimaru was calm before turning his attention to his general.

“They were in the Western Lands?”

“Close to the border with the east.”

“How many?”

“Around twenty left.”

Sesshoumaru's eyes hardened. “Send ten warriors out. None of the demon slayers are permitted to remain in the Western Lands. If they resist, kill them.”

Katsuo nodded grimly.

…***…***…***…

The humans were giving him problems five hundred years ago and they were giving him problems now, Sesshoumaru thought. It was ironic that he had ended up wishing to be mated to a human. A miko, no less.

Brushing the remnant of the memories away from his mind, Sesshoumaru fixed his gaze to a point far beyond the clouds. It would not be long before they arrived at the unnamed island, he surmised. Departing from the shrine, he had traveled with the miko and his pup as far as the coast using his energy orb. Deeming that it was safe to travel on his cloud to cross the sea to the east of Japan, Sesshoumaru had placed an arm each around the miko and his pup and ascended into the air.

He glanced down at the miko clinging to the spikes on his armor. As per the norm in these meetings, the demons lords were expected to turn up in their traditional attire. Sesshoumaru knew that the miko's appearance would cause a stir, seeing that her kind had always considered demons as enemies. Still, the familiar sight of her miko garment pleased him.

Sesshoumaru shifted his gaze to his son's face. The pup's eyes were shining in anticipation. In fact, Sachimaru had been nothing but a bundle of excitement ever since had received a gift of an attire similar to his, without the armor.

“Are we there yet?” Sachimaru asked.

“Soon,” he replied.

The miko shifted. “We've been traveling for hours. Where is this island?”

“Somewhere between Japan and the United States.”

Her eyes rounded. She looked as if she was ready to panic. “We're THAT far out in the sea?”

“Miko, do not struggle or you will plummet down into the sea,” he warned her flatly.

Sachimaru giggled. “Okaa-san, don't you think it's nice up here? You can see everything.”

The miko groaned. “Everything? I can only see water and clouds.”

Grinning, Sachimaru said, “Exactly.”

Sesshoumaru's lips twitched in amusement.

Soon, his entire attention was focused on locating the island. The island was held in shared ownership between a number of demon lords, him included. It was a neutral territory for all of them with its own laws and protocols to maintain the peace. For security purposes, the island had been made invisible to one's eye unless they had been invited in advance. The guards knew that he was coming with two guests and would be looking out for his signature youki.

With that in mind, he released a wave of youki, allowing it to radiate outwards.

Almost instantly, a previously invisible area close to them coalesced into a solid mass of a large island. Both the miko and Sachimaru gasped. Listening at their excited exclamations with half an ear, Sesshoumaru guided his cloud down to the sprawling estate on one side of the island. Thick foliage covered the other side of the island, left untamed for those who wished for nature unspoilt by humans.

When his cloud landed on firm ground, two foreign demon guards approached him and bowed.

“Lord Sesshoumaru,” they chorused in thickly accented Japanese.

He inclined his head in acknowledgement.

“If you would like to follow us, we'll show you the accommodation.”

“Hn.”

With that, Sesshoumaru walked after the two guards. Glancing down at the miko, he saw the unspoken question in her eyes. No doubt she was wondering why the two guards had ignored her and Sachimaru.

“They are not allowed to associate with the guests,” he explained.

Her eyes widened in comprehension. But before she could say a word, Sachimaru asked, “Why?”

“The protocol in this island dictates so. The balance of peace between demons of different cultures is delicate and maintaining it is a difficult task. There is no reason for the guards to speak to the guests casually, therefore to avoid unnecessary complications, such a thing is disallowed.”

The pup nodded but said nothing else. Unlike his usual bubbly self, Sachimaru was calm and composed, Sesshoumaru noted with approval. Even without being told, the pup understood the need for proper etiquette.

A small, single storey house came into view and the guards stopped in front of it. “We hope that you'll have a pleasant stay.” Bowing, the two guards left.

Sachimaru immediately walked forward towards the door and pushed it open. Stepping in after his pup, Sesshoumaru glanced at the surroundings, deciding that it was of an acceptable standard. As the miko stepped next to him, a distasteful thought suddenly occurred to him.

“Akiyama will be present.”

“Oh.”

Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed. The miko did not seem surprised. Perhaps Akiyama had informed her of his movements. A flare of irritation rose in him and he had to forcibly maintain his outward façade of calm. The elemental's presence would not matter, since Akiyama had to comply with the protocols and therefore, would not be interacting with her.

“Do not expect to speak to him,” he cautioned.

The miko's eyes bulged. “To Akiyama?”

Sesshoumaru nodded once. “You will be announced to the demon lords but you may not address them directly. In turn, the demon lords are not encouraged to converse with the guests of other lords.”

Blinking, the miko exhaled. “I see. This is to make sure that no misunderstandings happen, right?”

“Hn.”

“But Akiyama and I already know each other,” she pointed out.

“It matters not,” he replied flatly.

Sachimaru reappeared, his face once against suffused with excitement now that they were alone. “There are three bedrooms and each have a bath in it,” he announced. “Really big baths! Okaa-san, you must come and see.”

The miko laughed. Sesshoumaru watched as she allowed herself to be pulled away.

Suddenly, it struck him that this would be the first time in five hundred years that the three of them would live under the same roof.

…***…***…***…

They had not done much after they arrived. Without much fight, she had given in to Sachimaru's and ended up soaking in the large bath. They had gone to bed soon after that.

The next morning found them flying over the lush terrain on Sesshoumaru's cloud.

Kagome gasped as she pointed at the shimmering cascade below them. “Look Sachimaru, there's a waterfall down there.”

Sachimaru's eyes widened as he leaned forward away from Sesshoumaru. “Really?”

“Be still, Sachimaru. Or you will find yourself learning to fly prematurely,” Sesshoumaru chided evenly.

Blinking, she glanced up at the taiyoukai. “Fly?” she echoed disbelievingly. Her son could fly?

“Hn. It is possible that he possesses the power to do so. However, one could only tell if he tries.”

“I want to learn now!” Sachimaru exclaimed, his eyes gleaming in anticipation. “Can you teach me? Please?”

“It's too soon. You will learn in a year or so,” Sesshoumaru said firmly.

“But it's dangerous…” Kagome muttered. The idea that Sachimaru possessed the same capability as Sesshoumaru should not be surprising. However, the idea of her son flying worried her.

Sesshoumaru gave her a wry look. “Miko, you are flying on my cloud.”

“That's different,” she huffed.

Sesshoumaru gave her a wry look. “And it is not dangerous right now?”

She made a face at him. “That's different. YOU are flying this thing.”

“I'm gratified that you have such confidence in my abilities,” he returned blandly.

Kagome could not help but grin at the twinkle in his eyes. As Sachimaru continued to hassle Sesshoumaru about the techniques of flying, her mind began to wander. Without much conscious thought, she relaxed against Sesshoumaru's solid form, feeling his arm tighten around her waist. A warm glow washed over her. She felt so secure, so protected.

And it was all because Sesshoumaru was with them. He was different and yet the same as the Sesshoumaru she had known in the past.

This Sesshoumaru beside her was easier to love.

…***…***…***…

A/N: Sigh… I'm suffering from cliffie withdrawal… Hope you've enjoyed the chapter. Please review if you can. Thanks!