InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A Little Faith ❯ Chapter 20 ( Chapter 20 )

[ 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 previous chapter. I will not be updating next week because I'm away on holiday, so the next update will come in about 2 weeks' time. In the meantime, I hope you'll like this chapter!

A Little Faith by elle6778 - Chapter 20

This Sesshoumaru beside her was easier to love.

It took a while before the stray thought sank in fully in her mind. And when it did, Kagome paled.

Easier to love?

What was she thinking of? Blinking, she bit her lips in consternation. Could it be that she was slowly falling for him? Or this feeling of hers had always been there since the Feudal Era and she simply did not recognize it? She frowned as she considered her past actions, remembering how disappointed she had been when Sesshoumaru had shown no inclination to further their relationship. Was that why she had not accepted Akiyama fully even though he had courted her for so long?

Sesshoumaru's voice jolted her out of her disturbing thoughts.

“We have to return.”

Still stunned by her recent realization, Kagome could only nod. The terrain sped past under them as Sesshoumaru guided his cloud until they landed back in the estate. It was over too soon for her liking and from the resignation on Sachimaru's face, she knew that her son felt the same as well.

“Thanks for taking us around, Sesshoumaru-san,” Sachimaru chirped.

“That was nice, Sesshoumaru,” she added with a smile.

Sesshoumaru's expression was unreadable when he turned to face her. “You may amuse yourself on one of the trails after the first session.”

“The first session?” she queried.

“You need to be in attendance during the first session, for you will be introduced to the rest. The second session is restricted only to the lords as the details needed to be kept confidential,” he explained as they stepped up to a large marble-clad structure. “Today, Naraku's acts will be discussed.”

Kagome nodded, recalling everything Sesshoumaru had told her about the power-hungry half demon. She guessed that like humans, demons were also prone to such things. All thoughts of Naraku instantly fled when she walked down the tall hallway flanked by while marble columns. It was obvious that no expense had been spared in the construction of the conference hall.

Soon, she found herself sitting in a raised private balcony overlooking a circular conference space underneath. She blinked at the view beneath her. The ruling demons and demonesses from different countries were seated around a very large round table. There were at least forty of them down there and vaguely, she wondered how they could see to the end of the table.

It was surreal, she thought as she held on tighter to Sachimaru's hand, just in case he decided to go exploring by himself. Not that she really had anything to worry about. After all, Sachimaru has been the model of decorum ever since they landed on the island. She supposed she should be thankful that Sachimaru understood that there was a time and place to play and run around.

A hush fell over the chamber as the master of ceremonies, a demon called Verdelet announced for them to commence.

Each of the demons and demonesses were announced as well as their guests. When it came to her and Sachimaru, she could not help but hear disapproving mumbles rumbling throughout the large space. Shrugging inwardly, she decided to ignore it. After all, they were not supposed to talk to her, let alone touch her.

She struggled to remember the names but she vaguely remembered some of them from mythological tales and foreign folklores.

There was the Yeti of the Himalayas, furry bear-like form with ape-like features. Then there were the Chinese demon lords, Niu Mo Wang with horns protruding from his bull-like face and Menomaru, a moth demon with twin red slashes down his forehead. Japan was represented by Sesshoumaru and Akiyama.

From further west, there were the Norwegian demonesses known as Alrunes, the French banshee Melusina, the three-headed Western demon king Balam and a scary looking tall demon called Barbas. There was also a serpent demon called Phyto, a Russian demon called Troian and a fire elemental called Xarphan. Kagome squinted as her eyes landed on the other ten or so demons whose names she could not remember.

She followed as Sachimaru leaned closer to the edge of the balcony to see better. Once by one, the demons and demonesses began to give a brief summary of what was happening in the demonic society in their respective areas. After the third demon, Kagome slumped back down onto her seat. It was as if she was sitting in an economics class. The nature trails were definitely more enticing than this.

She hoped that the whole thing would be over soon so that she could get out.

…***…***…***…

The second session had commenced an hour ago but Sesshoumaru was already weary of the slow pace the discussion had taken. It would have helped if some of the demons did not insist on broaching irrelevant topics.

“So, Lord Sesshoumaru, can you explain the presence of a human priestess in the midst of a demon gathering?” Menomaru asked.

Sesshoumaru gave the Chinese moth demon a disdainful look. “She is my guest.” The demon should know better than to bring something so contentious up in such a conference.

“Her holy power poses a threat. Perhaps it is only a small threat, considering our collective powers but still a threat,” Menomaru pointed out with a frown.

Sesshoumaru saw Akiyama's cautioning glance before the water elemental spoke in a calm voice. “I am familiar with this female as well. I cannot speak for other priestesses but she is not our enemy. Our enemy is the one was coordinating the scheme to expose the presence of demons to the public.”

“I was about to point out that we are not gathered here to speak of one human priestess,” the banshee Melusina interjected haughtily. Glancing at Menomaru, she added, “If you have issues with such a thing, this is not the time to bring it up.”

Niu Mo Wang rapped on the table. “Let's focus on the situation in Japan.”

“Lord Sesshoumaru, you've explained the situation earlier. We want to know what are your plans to contain this,” Balam asked, leaning forward as he did so.

Sesshoumaru pinned his gaze on the powerful three-headed demon. “The one responsible for this is a half-demon known as Naraku. He's being hunted down as we speak.”

“A half-demon?!” Alrunes exclaimed incredulously. “Half-demons are weak! It is unthinkable that one could create so much chaos.”

“Hn.”

Sesshoumaru agreed that half-demons were generally weaker than full-blooded demons and he knew that Naraku could not possibly be capable of this without aid. Glancing around, he wondered if one of them in the conference was involved. Those that could be involved, based on their dislike of humans, were Menomaru and Phyto.

“It's very well hunting him down. But you do realize there is still the small issue with the Japanese human population's awareness of our existence,” Melusina pointed out. “Something needs to be done about it.”

Akiyama leaned forward. “There are a few possibilities that we can explore.”

Barbas snorted as he waved his arm in a wide arc. “Just modify their memories, Lord Akiyama. That is not something beyond your capacity.”

Sesshoumaru glanced sharply at the elemental beside him. He was not aware that Akiyama possessed such a skill. Was he the one who had suppressed the memories of the miko? Added with the fact that he was able to infuse spells into objects, the evidence was damning. Still, why would the elemental do such a thing?

Obviously sensing his perusal, Akiyama turned to the side, wearing a look which cautioned silence before returning his attention to Barbas.

“Whilst it's true that I'm fully capable of modifying memories, I prefer to find another way to arrive at a peaceful resolution,” the elemental said smoothly.

Barbas frowned. “Peaceful resolution? The humans have never learnt such a thing. You only have to watch how they fight amongst each other to come to that conclusion. Why should we expect them to suddenly develop some sense? Delve into their consciousness and dreams and you will find that humans are a mess within themselves.”

“Lord Barbas has a point, Lord Akiyama,” Xarphan remarked. “Perhaps you're reluctant to do so because of your personal feelings for humans in general. After all, you're partial to them, aren't you?

Akiyama tensed at his long-time enemy's words as Sesshoumaru's lips tightened. Xarphan, the fire elemental, was only trying to goad the other elemental. It would not do for Akiyama to lose his temper. Giving Akiyama a look which warned the elemental to allow him to handle this, Sesshoumaru turned his attention to Xarphan.

“It's unnecessary to bring up Lord Akiyama's personal preference in this meeting. After so many centuries, it is clear that he only acts in the best interest of the demon population.” Inclining his head at Troian, Sesshoumaru added, “Two centuries ago, Troian has benefited from Lord Akiyama's assistance when the Russian humans discovered his existence, has he not?”

Troian nodded. “That's true. And I am grateful for Lord Akiyama's aid.”

One of Balam's head swung towards Sesshoumaru. “The option to modify the memories is the simplest, provided you eliminate the mastermind of the scheme.”

His body twisting sinuously to face Sesshoumaru, Phyto the serpent demon hissed, “Lord Sssesshoumaru, with your forcesss, you could simply force the humansss to ssubmit to the demons. After all, we are the superior sspeciesss.”

Niu Mo Wang spun around sharply. “That's not an option, Phyto, and you know it.” His tone was hard.

Sesshoumaru nodded. “You have seen how the humans react to this in Japan. Full exposure would only cause more problems.”

Phyto simply hissed in obvious disdain before turning away.

The meeting continued, occasionally growing heated as the demon lords clashed in opinions. Sesshoumaru sat back, composing his expression into a look of mild disinterest.

Finally the majority agreed that since the incidents were still contained within Japan, the Japanese demons should be allowed to handle it in their own way. However, Balam stipulated that the foreign lords would interfere if things get out of hand whilst Barbas continued to insist that the memories could be wiped on a large-scale basis.

By the time they finished, Sesshoumaru was relieved that such meetings only occurred once in decades.

As the demons began to file out, Sesshoumaru directed a pointed look at Akiyama. Understanding the unspoken words, the elemental simply nodded. It was only when the conference chamber was empty save the two of them that Sesshoumaru turned his full gaze at the blue-haired demon.

“I believe you need to explain a certain facet of your skills,” Sesshoumaru bit out.

Akiyama's expression tightened. “I know what you suspect, Sesshoumaru. But you are mistaken. I did not cast the spell on Kagome or you.”

“You are certainly capable of it,” Sesshoumaru accused flatly.

Akiyama's expression was stony. “And I'm telling you that it was not me. Such a thing brings me no benefit. Why would I suppress the miko's memory of myself considering the progress of our courting?”

Sesshoumaru's lips thinned. He did not wish to know of how far the courting had progressed in the past. The notion of the miko in the elemental's arms instantly sent a burning rage coursing through his veins. Clenching his fists, Sesshoumaru glared at the elemental.

“You are aware that you are not to interact with her here,” he gritted out.

Akiyama raised a challenging brow. “Surely that part of the island's protocol refers to strangers. The miko and I are hardly strangers.”

“Nevertheless, you will observe the rules.”

“I have no intention of breaking the rules, Sesshoumaru,” Akiyama replied flatly, but the gleam in his eyes belied his displeasure.

Would the elemental keep his word? Deciding to reserve judgment for the moment, Sesshoumaru asked, “Who else you know of that holds the power to do such a thing? The memories of all the inhabitant of my castle were also suppressed. None could think of a reason behind it when interrogated.”

The elemental was silent for a moment. Then he asked, “Have you discovered why the memories have returned after so many centuries?”

“A chain in the miko's possession was used to bind the memories. There was also pendant involved in it, one which held a substantial portion of the miko's powers.”

Akiyama frowned thoughtfully. “I am not capable of binding or manipulating a miko's holy powers. And as far as I know, most demons are not able to withstand it without being purified, except you.”

“Hn.”

In that case, the spell could have only been cast by someone with holy powers, such as a miko. Sesshoumaru suddenly went cold when an idea presented itself. But before he could think it through, Akiyama voiced his suspicions.

“It is possible that Kagome accidentally set the spell off.” The elemental paused briefly before he continued, “I don't think she would have done something like this on purpose. Somehow, the action does not fit her.”

Sesshoumaru nodded, realizing the truth in Akiyama's words. Perhaps it was merely an accident. And perhaps the loss of memory was not as bad as it seemed. After all, without it, he would not have a second chance at winning the miko's affection.

…***…***…***…

The place definitely did not lack any natural beauty, Kagome admitted with a smile as she and Sachimaru stopped by one of the trails which Sesshoumaru had shown them from his cloud earlier. Waterfalls of all sizes cascaded down the cliff face, sending a fine mist spraying into the air and the surrounding foliage.

“Can I go in, Okaa-san?” Sachimaru asked, eyeing the water with longing.

Kagome glanced at the ripples on the surface of the crystal clear water. “Better ask Sesshoumaru… Sesshoumaru-san first,” she mumbled. Who knew what could be in that water? After all, this island was populated by demons.

“Do you think he will teach me to fly?”

The image of Sachimaru streaking through the air on a miniature cloud far, FAR above ground instantly came to mind, making her gulp. What if he hurt himself? What if his cloud was faulty? Maybe she should try to talk Sesshoumaru out of teaching Sachimaru such a dangerous thing.

“Okaa-san?” Sachimaru prompted.

Before she could reply, a feminine voice sounded some distance behind her.

“So, you are Sesshoumaru's guests.”

Kagome swung around to find herself facing two beautiful female demonesses. Their slanted eyes and their oriental attire suggested to Kagome that they might be one of the Chinese lord's guests. Just as she was about the open her mouth, Sesshoumaru's warning came to mind.

Confusion instantly enveloped her. Why were they speaking to her? Did they not know that guests were discouraged from interacting? Unsure of what to do, Kagome simply stood there, holding on to Sachimaru's hand firmly. Like her, Sachimaru simply stared up at them wordlessly.

The two demonesses did not seem at all bothered by their silence.

“I'm Hari,” one of them said.

“And I'm Ruri,” the other one chirped.

Glancing down at Sachimaru, Hari raised an eyebrow and said, “My, my… Doesn't he look just like Lord Sesshoumaru? Don't you think so, Ruri?”

“How interesting…” Ruri mused contemplatively.

Kagome stiffened. She supposed she should have expected this. After all, the resemblance was uncanny. Still, something about the gleams in the demonesses' eyes and then tone of their voices sent warning bells ringing in her head.

Not wanting to offend anyone and not wanting to break the protocol, Kagome inclined her head at them. Without waiting for their reaction, she pulled Sachimaru along with her. It was late anyway and Sachimaru needed to go to sleep soon.

To her relief, she found that they were not followed as they headed back towards the small house. Stepping in, Kagome's eyes immediately went to the untouched trays of food left on the table. Sesshoumaru must still be stuck in the meeting.

Conscious of the time, Kagome sat down and gestured for Sachimaru to start eating.

“The two demonesses are weird,” Sachimaru remarked as he ate.

Sachimaru noticed it too. Frowning, Kagome said, “They shouldn't be talking to us. I wonder what they were thinking.”

“Maybe Sesshoumaru-san would know.”

Kagome nodded as they finished their dinner. Soon, Sachimaru was in bed with her sitting by his side.

She looked up when she heard the door front door open and shut quietly. Sesshoumaru must be back. She needed to tell him about that weird encounter they had near the waterfalls. Tucking the sheets up the slumbering Sachimaru's chin, she stood up and walked out of the boy's room. Looking around the living room, she realized that no one was there.

Without thinking, she went to Sesshoumaru's room and knocked. “Sesshoumaru?” she called out.

“You may enter, Miko.”

Pushing the door open, she stepped in. Her breath instantly hitched in her throat when her eyes landed on his bare back. Standing facing the open window, he was clad only in his silk hakama and nothing else. She stared, fixated on his sleek muscles as he turned around to walk towards her.

The memory of their mating came crashing into her mind, supplying her with the images of his sweat slicked chest as he drove into her wildly.

“Miko?”

Her eyes snapped up to his face. She blushed when she saw the knowing gleam in his eyes. “It's not what you think it is,” she blurted out. She immediately groaned silently. As if that was not a dead giveaway. She took a step back, deciding that this was not a good idea after all. At least until Sesshoumaru put something on.

“You wish to say something, Miko?”

She cleared her throat, trying to remember what she wanted to say. “When we were walking earlier, these two demonesses came up and tried to talk to me. I didn't like the looks they gave Sachimaru.”

His eyes narrowed. “Who are they?”

“I think they are the guests of one of the Chinese lords. They said their names are Ruri and Hari.”

“They are Menomaru's companions,” Sesshoumaru remarked thoughtfully.

Still feeling much too aware of Sesshoumaru enticing nudity, Kagome took another step backwards. “Uh, I'd better go. It's late.”

His gaze darkened. “Stay,” he murmured.

“S-Stay?” she choked out as his fingers touched her face.

Caught in the moment, she could hardly breath as he bent down to lock his lips onto hers. Eyes fluttering shut, she responded freely as their tongues tangled and their lips caressed each others passionately.

She simply moaned as his hand skated down the side of her neck only to end up on the swell of her breast. Giving in to the urge to feel him, Kagome reached up to run her palms down his well-defined chest. When her fingers dipped into his navel, his sharp intake of breath drew her eyes up to his face. Features suffused with desire, his eyes were hooded and dark.

The memories were nothing compared to this.

With a growl, he lifted her and moved until she felt herself lowered onto his bed. His eyes never left hers as he lowered himself between her legs. Reaching underneath her sleeping slip, he brought his hand up to cup her breast. Kagome instantly arched back at the sensation of his palm rubbing against her sensitive mound.

Then he dipped his head to draw a slow lick from the valley between her breasts to the side of her neck. She shivered as his fangs scraped the junction between her neck and her shoulder.

“Miko, I have to stop.” His voice was strained, ragged.

Blinking through the haze in her eyes, she glanced at him. “Why?” she asked before she realize how she must have sounded.

“I would mark you if this continues.”

She sucked in a sharp breath. He wanted to mark her? As in to make her his mate again? But now he was backing off. Did that mean that he did not want to mate her after all? Or he was simply waiting? But waiting for what? More importantly, did she want him to mark her?

“I… umm…” she faltered uncertainly.

“Sleep, Miko,” he said huskily, pulling her onto him so that her head rested on his bare chest.

The steady beat of his heart thumped against her ears as Kagome stared unseeingly into space.

It was at that moment that she realized that she wanted it. She wanted him to mark her as his. She wanted to spend years and years with him as Sachimaru grew up. Sure he was arrogant and self-absorbed most of the time, but she did not mind it that much.

Her mouth went dry in realization.

She was in love with Sesshoumaru.

…***…***…***…

Sesshoumaru's eyes were still closed in part slumber but it did not stop his senses from tingling at the approach of a presence. It was non-threatening. In fact, the presence gave him a sense of warmth. It was coming closer, that tiny, non-threatening presence…

Sesshoumaru jolted into complete awareness the moment the door to his room swung open.

Two pairs of golden eyes met.

“Okaa-san? Sesshoumaru-san?” Sachimaru whispered cautiously.

Tensing, Sesshoumaru sat up straighter, wondering how the pup would react to seeing his mother in bed with another male. Sachimaru's eyes landed on the miko momentarily before he raised them again. Apart from a strange gleam in the pup's eyes, Sesshoumaru sensed nothing else. No panic, no fear and no recrimination. How was such a young pup able to remain so calm?

“Did you sleep well, Sachimaru?” Sesshoumaru asked carefully.

Sachimaru brightened. “Yes. A lady brought us breakfast,” he whispered. “Is it alright if I eat first? It smells good and I'm hungry.”

Still stunned by the pup's non-reaction to their compromising position, Sesshoumaru simply nodded. As the pup closed the door behind him, Sesshoumaru glanced at the sleeping figure beside him. Reaching out, he smoothed a strand of her hair away from her cheeks before bending down to nuzzle her neck.

A feeling of male pride washed over him when a faint scent of arousal tickled his nose. If he was uncertain of the miko's thoughts on his touches, this would prove to him that she was attracted to him, at least physically. Then he grimaced when he remembered that caught in the sensual pleasure, he had almost marked her last night. It was still too soon, for he was uncertain of the miko's true feelings on this subject.

As he continued to rub against her cheek, the miko stirred. “Sesshoumaru?” she murmured sleepily.

“Hn.”

Closing his eyes, he continued to inhale her peach scent as she threaded her fingers in his hair. Knowing that this could lead to something more, Sesshoumaru immediately stilled. Lifting up his head, he stared into her sleepy eyes.

“Sachimaru was in here a while ago.”

Her eyes immediately widened and she sat up abruptly. “What did he say?”

“He asked permission to eat before us.” Sesshoumaru paused momentarily and then continued, “This is the second time he had seen us in a… compromising position and said nothing of it.”

“You're a bad influence. His timing was much better when you're not around,” she muttered dryly.

“You jest, Miko.”

She shook her head. “Remember what happened on the day I gave birth to him?”

Sesshoumaru's lips twisted as he recalled that very memory, when Sachimaru had insisted on arriving when the miko was in the hotsprings. But he also remembered that Sachimaru had effectively put a stop to his urge to mark the miko when they had been walking in the forest reserve.

“Perhaps it is.” Disentangling himself from the sheets, he stood up. “Come. It is time to wake.”

The morning and afternoon passed quickly with the three of them exploring the island. However, conscious that they would have to return to Japan soon, Sesshoumaru told them that they could return to the island again if they wished to do so.

Shortly, they were once again traveling over the sea on his cloud. Sesshoumaru watched as the miko glanced sideways at the sleeping boy on his shoulders. The pup was tired from their last trek across the forest on the island that he had decided to carry Sachimaru while he slept.

The familiarity of the situation did not escape him, albeit without their pup. Five hundred years ago, he had traveled with the miko in such a manner. A conversation they had returned to him.

“Tell me, Miko… Were you really thinking of Akiyama during the trip?”

“What trip?” she asked, a little confused.

His golden eyes flickered as they landed on her lips and then he lifted a hand. Her breath lodged in her throat as he traced her bottom lip with his thumb. “Do you remember, Miko?” he asked quietly. “When I kissed you.”

She blushed.

Then her eyes widened suddenly.

“What is the matter?”

“I… I think a piece of memory is trying to come back.”

So far, their memories seemed to be returning almost at the same pace. Could it be that she was remembering what he had dreamt of just last night? He grimaced. There were elements of that particular dream which were downright intolerable. Still, he would need to know what she remembered. Perhaps it would lead to an answer as to how their memories had been suppressed.

“Tell me, Miko.”

She took a deep breath as her eyes clouded over. “We were in the gardens. Sachimaru, Katsuo, Natsumi and I…”

…***…***…***…

They were being watched.

Distracted, Kagome's steps faltered momentarily as she glanced at the taiyoukai who was crossing the garden some distance away. The moment he noticed the direction of her gaze, he inclined his head and then resumed walking.

She sighed inwardly. Sesshoumaru had been pleasant enough to her and she should not have any complaints but she kept feeling as if something was missing.

Kagome's lips twisted bitterly. In the last few months following Sachimaru's birth, one could almost say that they were like a real family. A father, a mother and a son. Only she knew better. Because if it was a real family, she would be married, no… mated to Sesshoumaru. Not being courted by one of his allies. Not that she had a problem with Akiyama. The elemental was definitely a good person to be mated to. But somehow, she could not help but feel that it could be more.

At least this was real, she thought as she started moving again, pulling Sachimaru along with her.

“Shh!” Kagome cautioned Sachimaru, settling them in the dark space under the bushes.

The seven-months old half-demon, who looked more like a two-year old human child, clapped his hand to his mouth as his golden eyes went impossibly large with excitement. Kagome bit her lips to stop laughing. His exuberance was contagious and she could feel her heart thump faster even as she willed herself to remain still. Katsuo would find them if they made the slightest sound.

Her spine tingled, signaling her that Katsuo was approaching. Alarmed, she wrapped her arms around Sachimaru and shuffled further away in an attempt to avoid detection.

Suddenly, the leaves nearby them shook violently.

Sachimaru squealed shrilly as Katsuo jumped in front of them. Even though she had expected it, the shock of Katsuo's appearance was enough to make her shriek as well. Then she laughed as Katsuo snatched Sachimaru and raced out of the bushes. This was the fourth time Katsuo found the both of them. She emerged out into the sun-drenched garden to see Katsuo spinning around with Sachimaru.

Katsuo let out a toe-curling victory cry as he threw Sachimaru up in the air. “Got you, Sachimaru!” he declared as he caught the giggling boy.

Breathless from the excitement, Sachimaru gasped, “Let go, Katsuo-ojisan!”

“This is not fair! You're targeting us! Where's Natsumi?” Kagome protested, planting her hands on her hips.

“Here!” the demoness yelled, jumping out of a tree.

Kagome rolled her eyes. “You went up a tree?”

Smiling sheepishly, Natsumi shrugged.

“We can't play hide and seek if you can sniff us out,” Kagome grumbled at Katsuo.

Sachimaru promptly dashed off the moment Katsuo released him. Grinning, the hanyou said, “Well, you could use your powers to keep me from finding you.”

Kagome made a face at him. “And what might that be? Set up a barrier around us? You forgot that with your mother's miko blood, you could SEE the barrier.”

Katsuo blinked. “Ah… That's right. What if you just mask your scent? That way, my nose won't be able to find you. If Natsumi hasn't masked her scent, I would have found her.”

Kagome started, remembering a particular conversation between her and Akiyama which she had long forgotten. Yes, at that time, she had still wanted to escape but had not had the chance to ask Katsuo to teach her. But now that Katsuo was offering, she already decided to stay. Still, it would do no harm to learn it, right?

“You'd have to teach me.”

“It's simple but you'd need to focus your powers to wrap around you. Here, this is what you have to do,” Katsuo began.

Kagome listened intently as Katsuo explained it to her. After a few tries, she managed to mask her scent. Well, she supposed that the only time she would ever use this was while they were playing hide and seek, she thought wryly.

Natsumi beamed. “Well done! It worked. I can't smell you now.” Then she glanced at the sky. “Oh my… I have to go back in. I have work to do.”

Smiling at her friend's departing figure, Kagome released the spell and sagged to the ground. Keeping up with Sachimaru was hard work and even with all her training, she was tired. Sachimaru was not even fazed, judging by the way he was streaking across the garden, chasing and pouncing on some imaginary enemy.

“I wish my mother could see him,” Kagome mused, flicking her eyes sideways towards her friend who had sat down beside her.

Eyes not leaving the pup, Katsuo said absently, “Why don't you visit your family? I think Lord Sesshoumaru would not deny such a request.”

“I think he would,” she muttered darkly. Because it probably meant that she would not return once she jumped into the well. Not that he knew about it.

“Where is your home?” Katsuo asked curiously.

Kagome looked away. She did not want to lie to Katsuo. “Near the Goshinboku.”

“In the east?”

“I think so,” Kagome muttered, feeling bad that she was hiding something from Katsuo.

“I can take you there if you want. We only need to ask Lord Sesshoumaru for permission.”

Kagome sighed. “I don't think so, Katsuo.”

“Why?”

“You won't believe me if I tell you.”

“Kagome. Just tell me.”

She took a deep breath. “I think I can only get home through the Bond-Eater's Well, because that's how I got here in the first place. But I might not be able to come back.”

Katsuo looked visibly astonished. “Through the well?”

Deciding to get it out of her system, she explained, “I came from another place and time, through the well. And to go back, I'll have to jump into the well. It should bring me five hundred years into the future.”

Katsuo blinked wordlessly, then slowly, he began to grin. “I see. You're just joking around.”

“You don't believe me?”

Chuckling, Katsuo shook his head.

Irritated, Kagome slumped down onto the grass and stared at the sky. He obviously did not believe her. So much for being honest. Still, if she had not experienced it herself, she would not have thought that it was possible.

…***…***…***…

Someone was attempting to stalk him and was doing so with inadequate stealth. The loud shuffling of bare feet against the wooden floor give his stalker's presence away. Pretending not to notice, Sesshoumaru continued to walk down the hallway separating his sleeping chambers and his study. Sachimaru wished to play and he would humor the pup.

The fine hair at the back of his neck rose. Sesshoumaru glanced backwards just in time to see Sachimaru pounce. Lips quirking in amusement, he caught the pup midair.

“Hunting, Sachimaru?” he asked softly.

The pup nodded vigorously. Then his expression sank. “But you saw me.”

“You were too loud,” Sesshoumaru told him. “You have to be silent.”

The pup smiled, revealing fangs that were almost too tiny to be considered fangs. It must be due to his human heritage, Sesshoumaru surmised. It did not matter. From what he could see, Sachimaru would do well even without the fangs.

“Chichi-ue? Please join us?” Sachimaru asked.

The image of the miko and the pup playing earlier came to mind. Sesshoumaru frowned inwardly as he remembered the odd pressure in his chest at the sight of them laughing and running. For a moment, he had been tempted to join them. The only thing which stopped him was his aversion to being seen frolicking like a pup in the gardens.

“Does your mother know where you are?”

Sachimaru shook his head, wearing an impish look.

“Come.”

As Sachimaru walked beside him, holding on to his sleeve, Sesshoumaru stepped out into the garden. His eyes immediately landed on the figure of the miko lying down in the grass with his general seated beside her. Truly, Katsuo deserved to be assigned more tasks if he had so much free time, Sesshoumaru thought disapprovingly. However, he was certain that his pup would be disappointed if Katsuo was not there to entertain him.

Katsuo stood up when he walked up with Sachimaru. Glancing down, Sesshoumaru noted that the mother of his pup was asleep. From the red tint on her cheeks, he realized that she had remained far too long in the sun. Sesshoumaru grimaced. She must be tired if she had managed to fall asleep in the gardens in this heat.

“Miko.”

Her eyes instantly snapped open and she sprung into a sitting position, her unfocussed eyes finding their way towards him. He watched as she stood up, brushing the grass away from her kimono.

“Sesshoumaru,” she greeted, rubbing her eyes sleepily. Blinking, she smiled at Sachimaru. “So that's where you are, hassling your father. We wondered where you've gone.”

Sachimaru grinned up at her. “I was only hunting.”

The miko eyed Sachimaru anxiously as the pup darted away. Then she turned around. “Sesshoumaru? Please tell me he's not hunting for real.”

Sesshoumaru's lips twitched. The miko needed to stop treating Sachimaru as if he was fragile human. “Sachimaru is simply honing his skills as a demon.”

“Half-demon. He's half-human, remember?” she asked dryly.

“Nevertheless, his demon blood is more prevalent than his human one. It is to be expected that he would grow as a demon pup should.”

Releasing a sigh of exasperation, the miko placed her hands on her hips. “But nothing dangerous, alright?” she reminded for what seemed like the hundredth time.

Ignoring her words, Sesshoumaru turned to Katsuo. “Escort the miko to her chambers. She appears to be needing rest.”

A look of surprise crossed the miko's face. “I'm not tired, Sesshoumaru. And I definitely don't need to be escorted back to my room.”

Sesshoumaru's lips tightened as Katsuo tensed. Was the miko incapable of following simple instructions, even if it was for her own benefit?

Glancing briefly at Katsuo, she continued, “Can you fetch Sachimaru before he disturbs the servants and the warriors?”

Lips quirking, Katsuo nodded and left in the same direction as the pup.

Sesshoumaru gave her a stony look. “Miko…”

She barely looked at him when she said, “Well, I'm going in anyway.”

He gnashed his teeth together in an attempt to suppress his irritation. She still insisted on distancing herself from him. As far as he was concerned, the matter of the bond breaking was concluded and should be left in the past. He would not allow her to continue brooding over it. Perhaps it was time for him to confront her about it.

“Are you avoiding this Sesshoumaru, Miko?” he asked quietly.

She immediately tensed, that very action giving her away. A forced laugh escaped her lips as she averted her eyes. “It must be your imagination, Sesshoumaru. I'm not avoiding you. I see you everyday.”

His lips thinned at her denial. “Do not lie.”

Her eyes flashed. “What do you want me to say? It's not like I'm doing anything wrong. What is it you want, Sesshoumaru?”

What did he want? Sesshoumaru was not certain of the answer himself. Perhaps he just wished for the miko to be less distant and less shielded around him. He did not even mind if she returned to her old infuriating self because it meant that he would be seeing her, not the cautious version in front of him right then.

When he did not reply, she exhaled a heavy breath. “Typical, isn't it? I ask a question and you don't answer,” she muttered.

With that, she walked away from him, leaving him staring after her.

…***…***…***…

Kagome laughed heartily as she walked back towards the castle gates with Akiyama beside her. Sachimaru was running up ahead straight past the guards, no doubt to tell someone about what the newly born calf he had seen earlier.

She had lost count of just how many times the elemental had visited but she savored the visits, seeing that Akiyama was practically her only link to the outside world. She supposed that if Inuyasha was around, she could have persuaded him to go with her. But ever since he had gotten hold of Tetsusaiga with her help, he had been out searching for ways to strengthen his father's gift to him.

Her lips twisted in mirth as she remembered the look on Sesshoumaru's face when he realized that he could not hold the sword and yet, she could pull it out. It had been obvious that Sesshoumaru was not used to losing, especially to his younger brother. For weeks afterwards, he had been quieter and colder than usual. He had been sulking, she surmised with amusement. Not long afterwards, Sesshoumaru had disappeared for a while and when he returned, he no longer hankered for Tetsusaiga. She wondered what had happened to change the taiyoukai's mind.

“What seems to be so amusing, Kagome?”

Jolted out of her thoughts, she glanced at Akiyama almost guiltily. She really should not be thinking of Sesshoumaru while she was out with Akiyama. Still, the taiyoukai seemed to pop into her mind at the oddest times, even though she tried to avoid contact with him as much as possible unless it had something to do with Sachimaru.

“Kagome?”

She shook her head, smiling. “Nothing. Just remembering what happened when I handed Tetsusaiga over to Inuyasha.”

“Ah, yes. I met him one day while I was out.”

Kagome's eyes widened as she paused right in the middle of the courtyard. “Really? Where?”

“He was battling a dragon demon, Ryukotsusei and was successful in defeating him.” Akiyama frowned as he paused in thought, and then continued, “However, he did lose control over his demon self momentarily.”

Kagome gasped. In that state, Inuyasha was uncontrollable. Sesshoumaru had told her that it happened before and he had to be knocked out.

“Is he alright?”

Akiyama nodded. “Not only that, he gained a new technique.”

A smile made its way to her lips. “He must have been happy.”

“He was. Until he saw me.”

Kagome shook her head slowly. “Honestly, I don't know why all of you don't just get along.”

Akiyama smirked. “Perhaps he is jealous of my relationship with you.”

Making a face, she said, “That's so wrong. He's Sachimaru's uncle.”

Akiyama's eyes darkened. Then he reached out to tilt her chin up. In a husky voice, he said, “I should be relieved then. Less competition for your attention.”

Kagome gasped as his head descended, blocking the sun from her face. The kiss he planted on her lips was gentle but thorough. She was too surprised to respond and the next thing she knew, he was stepping away from her. Instantly, she clapped her hands to her cheeks, trying to cover her blush as Akiyama stared at her with his stormy blue eyes.

For a long moment, they simply stared at each other.

“Lord Akiyama?”

Kagome jumped at the unexpected voice. Spinning around, she saw Shin standing some distance away, wearing a suspiciously blank mask.

“Yes?” Akiyama acknowledged.

“Lord Sesshoumaru wishes to speak to you, if that is convenient.”

…***…***…***…

Hands clenched into fists, Sesshoumaru attempted to still the seething rage which burnt through him. He had been in this state ever since he was presented with the sight of the miko and the elemental in the courtyard.

How dare they… kiss?

He watched with satisfaction as Shin approach Akiyama with a message that he had instructed his inuyoukai warrior to deliver just seconds ago. He would not allow this revolting display to continue or worse, progress further.

This was unacceptable.

Although she was not his mate, he would never allow her to mate with another while his pup was with her. And Sachimaru was still too young to be separated from his mother. Was the miko even aware of the elemental's intentions? With her lack of knowledge when it came to demon culture, Sesshoumaru could not be certain.

It was not as if he was unaware of Akiyama's intention. If the miko chose to mate with the demon lord, her status as his pup's mother would ensure that the North and the West remained as allies. Sesshoumaru had no issues with this. What he had issues with was the fact that in such a case, Akiyama would hold the upper hand because he, Sesshoumaru would not want to alienate Sachimaru.

It was not long before Sesshoumaru felt the approach of the elemental. A moment later, Akiyama appeared at his open shoji screen.

“Lord Sesshoumaru,” the elemental greeted evenly as he stepped in. “I've received your message. Is something the matter?”

Sesshoumaru decided that it was best to go straight to the pertinent issue. “The frequency of your presence in the Western Lands seems to be increasing.”

Akiyama raised a brow. “If you recall, I have informed you almost a year ago that I wish to court the miko. And at that time, I promised that I would not encourage the miko to leave the Western Lands until the pup is of sufficient age. Therefore, I have no choice but to impose upon your hospitality. Unless, of course, you wish for the miko to return to the Northern Isles with me.”

“The miko belongs in the Western Lands,” Sesshoumaru gritted out. “And your courting of her is… inappropriate.”

The pair of blue eyes hardened into icy orbs. “She is not your mate, Sesshoumaru. And though I used to wonder why she is not, I am relieved that she is available. Why, may I ask, are you so concerned now when you did not raise an objection initially?”

“That is none of your concern.”

“Of course it is,” Akiyama retorted dryly.

Sesshoumaru's lips thinned. This conversation was not heading in the right direction. Akiyama was more persistent that he had anticipated. “The miko cannot leave the Western Lands. Our pup is still young.”

Akiyama took on an incredulous look. “We have spoken about this, Lord Sesshoumaru. I will not take her away. At least not yet. I just want to court her.”

Not able to come up with a good rebuttal, Sesshoumaru decided that he would use the miko as an excuse. “Perhaps this decision is better made after the miko is consulted properly. She may not be aware of the full implications of demonic courting.”

Surprised, Akiyama's brow rose. “Yes, I suppose Kagome would not be too happy if we make these sorts of decision for her. It is just as well that she knows of my intentions. I've explained it to her right after our first discussion.”

Sesshoumaru felt himself bristle at the elemental's familiarity with the miko. He would not tolerate this any longer, but he was at a loss for words. It seemed that he had erred in his initial judgment that the miko would reject Akiyama for the Western Lands. He had not expected their courtship to progress this far.

“If that's all, I wish to return to the miko,” Akiyama said levelly.

Seething, Sesshoumaru watched as the elemental left the study.

If the miko chose to leave with the elemental, he would not allow her to take Sachimaru. Unfortunately, this meant that the pup would grow without her presence. Whilst Sesshoumaru had no doubt that he would be more than capable of supervising Sachimaru's upbringing, he knew that the pup needed his mother. And the Western castle would be… different without her presence.

No, the miko has to remain.

Perhaps he should consider mating her.

Sesshoumaru waited for the spike of displeasure at the notion.

It never came.

Instead, a strange warmth enveloped him at the thought of having the miko by his side as his mate. Puzzled by his reaction, Sesshoumaru wondered when exactly his aversion to mating had ceased. Perhaps it was simply because he had gotten to know the miko better. She was a strong miko, not only in her powers but also in her mind and personality. In addition to that, she was certainly not lacking in terms of physical attributes. His body immediately reacted as he recalled their coupling. It had happened more than a year ago, but it was still fresh in his mind.

Yes, perhaps he should present this option to the miko.

…***…***…***…

This whole courtship thing seemed to be progressing so fast.

Kagome sighed heavily as she pulled the cover over Sachimaru's sleeping form.

No. Actually, now that she thought about it, Akiyama had declared his intentions almost a year ago. In effect, they had been dating for a year now. If this was happening in the future, they would surely have kissed by now. So she should not be so surprised at what had happened earlier today. Right? Akiyama had been patient. Much more than she had expected from a demon lord, who she assumed would expect to get what he wanted without too much fuss. Something like Sesshoumaru, she supposed.

Groaning, she buried her face in her knees.

The kiss only served to muddle her thoughts even further. She could not help but to compare Akiyama's gentle but heated kiss with Sesshoumaru's possessive ones.

Akiyama's kiss had stunned her and she felt bad now, realizing that she should have responded instead of freezing up. It was just because she was surprised, right? But that had not happened when Sesshoumaru kissed her. She had responded to Sesshoumaru quite shamelessly, even though Sesshoumaru was only trying to prove a point. To show her that he was capable of arousing her.

She glowered. It definitely worked, if her reaction was anything to go by. Getting the kiss out of her mind had been nothing short of impossible. Comparing and choosing between the kisses from the two demon lords was difficult.

When she realized what she was thinking, she frowned. Why did she even bother? She only had to choose if Sesshoumaru decided to court her. If he had any interest in her, surely he would say or do something, right?

Kagome tensed when she felt, rather than saw Sesshoumaru at the entrance to her room. Sachimaru was already asleep, so there was no reason for Sesshoumaru to turn up. Feeling rather self-conscious from the thoughts she had been having, she ventured uncertainly, “Sesshoumaru?”

For a moment, he simply stared at her. When he finally spoke, his voice was tight. “Miko, your… interactions with the Northern Lord are growing tedious.”

Did he come in here just to tell her off about Akiyama? Her defenses immediately rose as she bristled. Was Sesshoumaru trying to pick a fight with her?

She scowled at him. “What do you care?”

“I assume you know that he means to mate you.”

“I know, Sesshoumaru,” she said with a long-suffering sigh. “Just in case you haven't noticed, we've been courting for months now.”

“It does not bother you?” he asked.

Bother her? Why should she be bothered that she was treated well and to be reminded that she was her own person, not only someone's mother? A pang of something she could not identify spread in her chest. She thought everyone knew that they were courting. Especially Sesshoumaru, since Akiyama had told her that Sesshoumaru did not object to it. So why was he asking all these questions now? These were questions she had expected him to ask almost a year ago.

Looking up at Sesshoumaru, she smiled slightly and said, “No, Sesshoumaru. It doesn't bother me and I can't see the problem.”

His expression became shuttered.

“Very well. In that case, this would be the appropriate time to make it known that this Sesshoumaru wishes to court you.”

Jaw dropping, Kagome simply stared at him. What was he saying? She must have heard him wrong because there was no way he had just said what he did. He did not just say that he wanted to court her, right?

“Uh…Sesshoumaru? Do you mind repeating that?” she asked shakily.

He quirked an elegant brow. Calmly, he clarified, “This Sesshoumaru wishes to court you.”

Kagome could not breathe. Why was he saying something like this? Was it just because Akiyama was courting her and he did not like it? Those were the last words she had expected from the stoic demon's mouth. Why did he want to court her? Was it the same reason as why he had kissed her?

The idea that Sesshoumaru was treating this merely as another one of his territorial squabbles with Akiyama broke her out of her stupor.

How dare he? After all this time, he still thought of her as something to be possessed?

All her previous grievances that she had buried deep inside her for the sake of peace bubbled up to the surface. Temper flaring, Kagome shot to her feet and stomped close to him. Planting her hands on her hips, she craned her neck up so that she could direct the full impact of her glare at him. Sesshoumaru simply stood unmoving, but she could see the sudden unease in his posture.

“Listen to me, you arrogant demon!” she hissed. “I'm not some piece of land to be fought for between you and Akiyama. So if you think can do this just so that Akiyama can't get his hands on me, then you're sadly mistaken.”

“Miko-”

“I'm NOT DONE!” she bellowed, angered beyond belief. “When are you going to get it through your thick head that I'm a PERSON, with my own thoughts and emotions and all that? You can't force me to have sex with someone. You can't force me to stay and you definitely can't JUST DECIDE to court me. Why the hell would I want you to court me anyway, seeing how insignificant I am in your life? Things are going just fine as they are, and you have to bring something like this up!”

“Miko,” he growled.

“You can't even call me by my name. I'm just `Miko' to you. Or did it escape your notice that I actually have a name?”

A pair of hands clamped around her shoulders. “Listen to me,” he hissed.

Pausing for breath, she snapped, “What?”

“This is not a simple territorial battle.” He stopped suddenly, appearing to be thinking. Then he continued, “This Sesshoumaru does not wish for Sachimaru to grow up without his mother.”

Kagome blinked at him. Yes, she had always thought that somehow or other, she would get Sachimaru to come with her. She opened her mouth to speak, but it seemed that Sesshoumaru was not done.

“There is also this rather… perplexing displeasure that this Sesshoumaru experiences when you mingle with the Northern Lord,” he added stiffly.

Perplexing displeasure? What did he mean? That he was jealous? Was he doing this because he felt something for her and was jealous of Akiyama? Kagome closed her eyes in disbelief, groaning as she did so. Can this entire situation get any more messed up? Why must this have to happen the moment she made the decision to forget the odd attraction she had for Sesshoumaru?

“Miko…”

“Okaa-san?” Sachimaru mumbled groggily.

Kagome spun around, only now remembering that Sachimaru was sleeping not far away. The shouting must have woken him up. Turning away from Sesshoumaru, she walked towards her son and knelt down to soothe him. When Sachimaru's breath evened out, she stood up to face Sesshoumaru again.

The taiyoukai was tense as he stared at her with an unreadable look.

“I'm sorry, Sesshoumaru. I can't answer you now,” she whispered as she raised a hand to rub her forehead. “I need time to think this over.”

His lips tightened. When he spoke, his voice was calm. “Consider it. But this Sesshoumaru will require an answer soon.”

…***…***…***…

Kagome grimaced as she thought of the dream she had last night after Sesshoumaru had dropped them off at the shrine. Considering what had happened between them in the past, it came as no surprise that her younger self had been wary of Sesshoumaru's intentions, even though it was clear that she was already probably half in love with the taiyoukai. It had not helped that Sesshoumaru was so vague about his own feelings.

What she was experiencing now was as if history was repeating itself, albeit with a mellower version of Sesshoumaru. Should she be just as wary this time? Was she making a mistake by falling in love with him? Her lips twisted. It was not as if she could stop feeling that way.

A tug on her hand drew her attention to the boy beside her.

“Okaa-san? Where is Sesshoumaru-san's office?”

“It's not far.” Glancing at the packet in her hand, she said, “We just have to drop this off at your grandmother's friend's shop. Ah, here we are. Come, Sachimaru.”

Together, they walked into incense shop. The sweet scent tickled her nose and beside her, Sachimaru lifted a hand to cover his own. A matronly woman walked out to greet them.

“Kagome-chan. And Sachimaru-chan as well. Here, have a seat and I'll get you some tea.”

Shaking her head as she handed the woman the packet, Kagome said, “I'm afraid we are in a bit of a rush, Kaoru-san.”

“Oh! Alright, then. Thank you for bringing me this.”

“It's no trouble, Kaoru-san. We'd better get going, though.”

“Well, pop in sometime.”

“We will.”

Soon, they were out again in the streets. Lips twitching, Kagome remarked, “I think Sesshoumaru might not survive the smell in the shop.”

Sachimaru nodded. “Demons have better senses, right?” Then his brows furrowed. “Why is he not picking us up?”

She smiled down at him. “He wanted to, but I wanted to go there so that I can introduce you to some of my… uh… old friends. I think you'll like them. And-” she paused, frowning as she heard something.

“What is it, Okaa-san?”

“I think I hear something.”

Then the sound grew louder. It was a cry of pain from the alleyway up ahead. Someone was in trouble, she thought as she rushed forward, pulling Sachimaru along.

“Someone is hurt,” she exclaimed.

“Shouldn't we call the police?” Sachimaru asked apprehensively as they skidded into the alleyway.

A man was crumpled against the wall, his long black wavy hair shielding his face from their view. Taking another step closer, Kagome ventured hesitantly, “Sir? Are you alright? Do you need help?”

The man lifted his head. A frisson of apprehension skated up Kagome's spine when she saw the dark red eyes adorning the man's face. He was a demon. And from the looks of things, he was not the friendly type.

She quickly took a step back when the man uncurled himself from the ground, revealing his tall, slender form. Sachimaru clutched at her leg and she placed a reassuring hand on his shoulders. It was a mistake to walk in the secluded alley all by themselves.

“How interesting,” the man mused, staring at them.

“What are you talking about?” she asked warily, taking yet another step away.

“It seems that my informant is correct after all. This boy…he's Sesshoumaru's son, isn't he?”

Alarms went off in Kagome's head. Could this be the half-demon called Naraku that Sesshoumaru had been talking about? The one who was responsible for the mess at the moment? Lifting her chin, she snapped, “I don't know who you are but it's none of your business.”

“Ah! Forgive me for my rudeness. I'm Naraku.”

Kagome sucked in a sharp breath.

Smirking, he continued, “But it is my business. You see, Sesshoumaru has been most…unaccommodating over the years.” His eyes gleamed in speculation as his gaze landed on Sachimaru. “So I thought he might need some…encouragement.”

She held Sachimaru closer to her. “Leave us alone!” she hissed. “Don't think I'm not going to fight back.”

He lifted a mocking brow. “Oh?”

“Okaa-san…” Sachimaru whined nervously.

“Stay behind me, Sachimaru,” she instructed urgently.

“How touching,” Naraku drawled. “A human protecting a hanyou. Tell me, what's so special about you that Sesshoumaru had chosen you above all the other lovely demonesses? After all, you're only human.”

Kagome's eyes narrowed. “I may be human, but at least I'm not some sick power-hungry half-demon like you!”

Naraku growled. “You dare to insult me?!” Then his expression settled into a phony look of calm. “Maybe I should sample for myself what Sesshoumaru found so appealing.”

Shivers of revulsion crawled up Kagome's spine at Naraku's not-so-subtle threat. Everything she had heard from Sesshoumaru and the rest did not prepare her for the reality of the disgusting creature she was facing now.

He took a step towards her.

“Stay away!” Kagome yelled, her nerves strung taut from her anxiety.

“Or what? You will hit me?” Naraku taunted.

Gritting her teeth, Kagome felt her offensive powers rise for the first time in the present day. She tried to calm herself, tried to recall what Katsuo had taught her so many years ago. The molten power flowed through her, charging her to capacity as she continued to glare at the hanyou in front of her.

Naraku's eyes narrowed. “You are a miko.”

Without any warning, a series of slimy black tentacles exploded towards her. Eyes widening in alarm, Kagome snatched Sachimaru up and threw them both out of the way. Panic instantly gave way to fury when she saw the terrified expression in her son's eyes. Naraku would not get away with this.

“Don't move,” she warned as she cast a barrier around Sachimaru, surprising herself that she remembered how to do it even with the lack of practice. The barrier was weak, but she hoped that it would hold.

Then she spun around to face the sneering hanyou.

“Only a weak miko, then,” Naraku spat. “Still, it doesn't matter. There are better uses for you and that half breed kid.”

“You touch my son and you'll die,” Kagome yelled, planting her feet securely on the ground in preparation to attack.

Red slits stared back at her. “You're not the first one to threaten me,” he hissed just as he swung his arms forward.

A blast of red youki sped its way to her. Reacting instinctively, Kagome raised her palms and her pearlescent miko energy exploded outwards to collide with Naraku's attack. The redness instantly hissed into nothing, much to Kagome's satisfaction.

Before she could release another attack, Naraku's tentacle shot towards her. She ducked away from the first one, only to find another one slamming against her back. The impact threw her against the brick wall with a loud crack, and the air from her lungs left her in a rush. Kagome groaned at the piercing pain shooting through her body as she slid down the wall to land in a heap at its base.

A pair of black boots came into view just second before a hand fisted in her hair, yanking her head back so that she was staring right up at the hanyou. His lips slowly twisted into a cruel smile.

“Not so brave now, are we, little miko?”

…

A/N: Hope you liked it! If you can, please review and let me know what you think. Thanks!