InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A New Way of Seeing Life ❯ Chapter One ( Chapter 1 )

This is Ookami-chan's challenge fic. It is going to be at least 20 pages and is a one shot. It will be posted as a one shot on her site, but for now, I am letting people have a taste of what the story is about and seeing their opinion on this. The story is almost complete, about halfway done. ^_^ I hope that you enjoy this and as a note-Rumiko Takahashi is the creator of Inuyasha, and I only take liberties with my ideas to write fanfiction.

A New Way of Seeing Life

By: Lazuli

lazulidreamer@yahoo.com

Sunlight filtered through the leaves, creating a dappled pattern on the young girl leaning against the trunk of a tree. Her long dark hair fanned out from her face, a ponytail holder on one wrist and a book was held loosely in the other hand. Small pink flowers decorated the uniform of a young girl sleeping against the trunk of a tree, the light pink contrasting sharply with the dark blue of her skirt, the jacket folded neatly beside her. A book was held loosely in her hand, and there were several more books and notebooks stacked beside her. A pack lay open on its side, displaying the remaining school materials inside.

The girl was Kagome Higurashi, daughter of the senator Keiichi Higurashi, and heir apparent to all of the estates and lands. It was no small fortune to be heir to, and as such, it made her a very desirable woman to have for a girlfriend. Kagome felt that she was too young to get married, but for some reason, her father was rushing the point. I've just turned eighteen. I'm not going to rush things simply because he's so eager to do so.

Kagome was smart, though-she saw through their lives and bald statements, knowing that they did not look at her, but at her money. If she didn't have any money, she wouldn't have existed at school. She liked to blend into the shadows. That was why she was out today, hidden from the boys that constantly came over to bug her, pretend that they were interested in her-asking her for dates and constantly trying to be 'seen' with her, hoping that they'd get their picture of the cover of some tabloid. "Mysterious guy dates youkai-hating bitch." She sighed softly to herself at the imaginary headline. It wasn't her fault that her father was the leader of the Anti-Youkai league. That her parents paraded down the street and held conferences at the courthouse to rid their city… and ultimately all of Japan, of youkai.

Her life was mainly peaceful-despite all the problems that her parents stirred up-she went to school like any normal girl her age, and neither excelled nor failed in her classes. She was near the top of the list of her classmates, but was mainly a loner, hiding alone with her books and papers. The other girls in the school thought she was a snob because the boys always hung out with her and she ignored them.

The bell rang, signifying the lunch period ending, and Kagome grabbed her bag and hurried towards the building for the remainder of the day to go by. It was bound to be a long one, and filled with rumors after the latest demonstration that her family had. It seemed to have focused on a single family in the town.. the local inuyoukai leaders. She shook her head mentally as she recalled some of the more heated parts of the 'talk.'

"This family especially should be eradicated! Their son is a disgrace to both bloodlines! He's a freak of nature! Kill him and the family can live without repercussions! He shouldn't be allowed to stay here-half breeds are unacceptable."

She shook her head mentally, feeling sorry for the 'unwanted' son. She had heard of him at times, all references unsavory and she wished that she could meet him to reassure him that not everybody hated him, and surely there was another one of his kind at least-he couldn't be the only hanyou in the world. She put him and everything dealing with her parents out of her mind, and concentrated on the upcoming festival activities for her class.

**

Kagome brushed her hair out of her eyes and sighed softly. It was time to be getting back home-her parents were going to worry if she didn't hurry home. It was that project that ran overtime. Hikaru insisted that she needed my help with it, and it was long past sunset by the time we finished all the details. She bit her lip worriedly as she walked home. She wasn't scared of the walk home for the same reason her parents were-she knew the youkai in this area and they wouldn't hurt her. It was the more of the chance of getting attacked by a regular street thug, and she hurried her steps home so that she could be in her warm, safe house.

The only sounds were the cars rushing by, still going fast even at this late hour. Husbands going to spend time with their colleagues at work, women rushing home from a late night trip to the market…it was all familiar to her and she gave a sigh of relief. There was nothing to worry about! She had made this trip so many times, and nothing had ever happened before.

She had begun to relax again when a strong hand reached across her mouth, muffling the instinctive scream that bubbled out of her throat. There was a momentary pressure on her neck before the world became darker than before, and she collapsed in her assailants arms.

When she awoke, the shadows and light in the room played back at her eyes strangely. It wasn't like her room at all, and the rough blanket below her was nothing like the soft sheets she usually slept on. Her rubbed at her eyes, hoping to see familiar surroundings, but it only grew more puzzling as her eyes adjusted to the dark of the room. Wherever she was, it was small and dank, reminding her of some type of medieval dungeon. But places like that don't exist anymore! I'm probably in someone's basement. Ugh. There was water dripping over head, and it made a constant rhythm in her ears. Other than that, there was no sound, no clue to give away where she was being held. The only items in the room were herself and the scratchy blanket, and a window carved high ahead led in a minimum amount of moonlight from the night sky.

She bent her knees up to her chest, trying not to cry, to break down like a silly girl. "I'm stronger than that." She whispered. Cruel laughter sounded outside in response to her whispered comment, and Kagome leapt up to see where it was coming from. She felt all along the walls, and was finally rewarded when her questing fingers found the cold metal bars, and she pressed up against it. "Who's there?" She demanded. "Why am I in this room?"

More laughter. "You are being held here, girl, because you belong here. Your father may have think that you are the better race, but for the insults that have been given against our family, you will be the one that will pay. We will keep you here until they can change their minds." The voice was cold and almost sexless. She peered out of the bars, hoping to catch a glimpse of the person that held her captive, but the darkness was too thick for that and swallowed the owner of the voice in the shadows.

"Why am I the one that's getting punished?!" She asked incredulously. "That's my family's words, not mine! I actually like youkai." She muttered. "I don't like the way my family talks."

The voice grew softer and more deadly, and it was instinct that made Kagome back up from the steely menace in it. "And your family likes to put us down and try to ruin our name. The way he talks about my brother-the words that he says cannot be forgiven easily." She was still clueless as to who this person was, though, and asked as much. She wasn't expecting the surprise in his/her voice.

"This is the residence of the inuyoukai family that your parents so despise." He said it as if it should have been obvious to her. "We will be taking care of you until they see fit to change their ways." There was more a smirk in the voice. "I do hope that with all the changes to occur, they'll be more open minded."

Kagome was in shock, and limply fell against the door, the fight slowly going out of her. "I.. I see." She said slowly. "What type of changes are to occur?" She asked finally, her voice inquisitive. "Surely you don't mean to keep me here forever. My parents would hardly negotiate with someone who keeps a teenage girl locked away in a basement."

"You are to be given to my brother." The voice was expressionless, no hint of emotion to what he thought to it leaking through. "When my brother decides to notice his fiancée is rotting away in one of our dungeons, he can take you from here. It seems that you are perfectly suited to each other." Again that hint of a smirk, and Kagome had the feeling that she was missing the point of some great joke. "You cannot be so easily prejudiced now."

"I never said I was!" Kagome crossed her arms over her chest, frowning towards the sound of the voice, even if she couldn't see the person that owned it. "I don't know him. I have to get to know someone first before I can make a judgment about them. If I got to know your brother, I'm sure that there would be no reason for prejudice. You can't judge me on simply the merits and opinions of my parents!"

The person snorted and she sensed them coming closer. Amber eyes suddenly glinted at her in the darkness. "Human are all alike. Simpering, whimpering fools. You think that you are so mighty because you outnumber us. I heard your parents clearly, little girl. How the 'whole family agreed that creatures looking like humans but with the natures of beasts should not live. Do you think we are lower because we are descended from the great Inu lords of the past?" There was a glint of sharp teeth in the band of moonlight. "You will not think so highly of yourself anymore."

Kagome was getting tired of this. "Just take me to where I'm supposed to be." She grumped. "If I'm supposed to be with your brother, then take me to his rooms or wherever he is, instead of acting like some overdone actor in an re-enactment of a prisoner of war movie."

Again, the faint sense of surprise was there. "If you are certain, then there will be no going back. I will have you properly… prepared to be in the presence of one our line, however tainted by human blood it may be." The door swung open, and Kagome walked slowly out, eyes intent for her captor. He stayed just out of the reach of any light, only his eyes reflecting strangely from the dimly lit lights above. They walked down a series of hallways with numerous twists and turns, going up several flights of stairs and through more passageways before the person stopped in front of a slightly open door. "You will be attended to here. Make sure that you listen to the words of those who are more knowledgeable than you. I do not want you to embarrass any of us with you human antics or styles." That said, Kagome was shoved inside the room, the door slamming shut behind her.

Light! Bright light assaulted her vision, and she squinched her eyes shut so that she would not be blinded. Bright sparks danced beneath her closed eyelids, and she winced as the beginnings of a headache stabbed through her temples. There was voices all around her, and she tried to block out the sounds unsuccessfully, hands going up to her ears to find that they were not where they were supposed to be. She blinked in shock, knowing that she must be dreaming-hallucinating. Her ears were supposed to be on the side of her head, and hands were supposed to dim the incredible sound around her. She whimpered slightly and the din faded, to be replaced by one soothing voice who led her by the hand to another room by the feel of it, warm air moving over her skin, slightly humid and damp. She cracked open an eye cautiously, and nearly screamed as she came face to face with a creature that resembled nothing she had ever seen before.

She realized that it was just a steam covered mirror, and her features were distorted what they would normally be. She breathed a sigh of relief and was about to inspect the mirror closer, when a firm hand took her and dragged her over to a waiting tub. "In here, miss. We need you all clean for your soon to be husband."

She efficiently stripped the dirty clothing off of Kagome and dumped her in the tub as she chattered away happily. "Inuyasha-sama is so happy that he has found someone to be with him. The poor boy has never found one like himself in all this world, and here you come, right into our laps! It is a shame what what's happening to your parents, but that is in the past now, and the future is just beginning for you." Her smile widened slightly. "They will get what's coming to them, putting down this family line." She paused in the middle of a vigorous scrubbing. "Dunk and rinse off your hair, there's a good girl."

Kagome blinked in confusion and shock, not exactly sure what this woman was talking about. She knew that she was going to be the bride that person's brother-she knew some names now, but was still hopelessly confused. What type of family is this? It's like being flipped back a couple of centuries with the way they act. I didn't do hired help could simply act this way anymore.

"Of course, it should have happened much younger so that you could have had the time to prepare for it, but those damn humans don't think about things like this! No matter how many ways you try to hide the truth, it shines back at you brighter than before from all the muck you use to bury it. "

The woman was ever cheerful and half scolding at the same time, and Kagome wished that she could just sink into the tub. I might have a better chance with the bubbles than what's going on…"Ouch!" There was painful tug on the top of her head, and Kagome winced away from the pain. It felt like a cross between someone pulling her hair and smacking her upside the side of the head.

"Oh, sorry, lovely. I didn't mean to catch your ears like that. Give it a good rubbing, that will get some of the pain out." Kagome's hands went automatically to the side of her head, but a firm grip pulled them higher. "No, no… your ears aren't there anymore!" The woman chuckled. "On top of your head, dearie. Just like Inuyasha's."

Kagome fingers touched soft fur and something that put her in mind of the small dog that she had at home. "I… oh …." Her vision grew faint as she continued to run her hands over them, and she took a few deep breaths to steady herself. "What am I?" She breathed. The question was more to her than to anyone else, but the servant seemed just as inclined to ask the question as she was to cheerfully talking about everything else.

"Why, you're a hanyou, the same as Inuyasha. You were created for him." That was enough for Kagome. For the first time in her life, darkness rushed up to grab her in its arms as she fainted.

**

Amber eyes peered into hers with concern, and Kagome yelped, thinking it was her captor again. But these eyes were kinder, staring at her with a kind of strained hopefulness at her. She blinked in surprise and her tense muscles relaxed as she realized that it was a different person altogether, but she nearly wound her muscles into springs again at the realization that was laying in a soft bed next to this person-and there was no one else in the bedroom but them. She let out a soft squeak of surprise but gave him a small smile, hoping that it would reassure him enough that she was okay. He in turn relaxed and leaned back slightly.

"You'll be okay here." His expression was serious. "I won't let anyone hurt you at all… especially not that bastard of a brother of mine." His hands went carefully to her hair, then pulled away. "You…you're mine, and I won't let anything harm you at all." His ears lay still in a head of silver white hair, and Kagome found herself reaching out to touch the soft items, wondering if they were as soft as the ones she felt on her own head. He brightened up immediately and encouraged the gesture, moving his head so that she had easier access to the furry triangles.

She rubbed carefully for a few moments, her smile widening ever so slightly as he started a rumbling growl in his chest, and she pulled away to look down and blush at the sheets below her. "This is all new to me." Her voice was almost inaudible, and she wouldn't look up to meet his eyes again. "Why.. I mean… not that it's a bad thing, but… why a hanyou? You didn't think you could get back at my parents just as easily if I was a human?"

Inuyasha snorted and looked away, his gaze focused on the greenery outside. "It's because of your family." His voice was low and bitter. "We are nothing but scum to them-and my brother decided to get some revenge upon them." He shook his head slightly. "I didn't mean for you to get involved unwillingly… I know about you. You're actually sensible. You don't seem all that frightened to be here."

She touched his face. "You don't seem like a horrible person, so why should I fear being here?" She was confused at why she was all touchy-feely with a person that she just met, and cursed inwardly at her bad manners. "I'm not being mistreated, and I'm even in here with a cute guy." She teased.

Inuyasha looked at her with more interest. "Then I'm sorry for having this forced on you." He gave her an uneasy smile. "I know it's not the best life and all-but-you're not alone!" He touched her face. "You're not alone in being a hanyou, or being without someone at all. I'll be such a good mate to you, and we can have lots of pups and they'll see how good of parents we are and there will be more of us. It won't just be two hanyous alone."

Kagome blushed a deep red at the mention of them having pups together, but she knew it was inevitable when they got married. I just never thought about marriage this young! I'm supposed to finish school and then get a job and settled before I even thought about marriage! And who said that this was a … oh gods… marriage… it is a permanent thing…

"But we wouldn't have them right away. I mean-if you didn't want to have them. We can if you want." His voice was rushed and his face turned an ever deeper shade of red. "I think that we can be together first, right? I… I don't know what type of mate you're expecting, but I promise to be the best one that I can be. I'll take care of you and make sure you're eating well, and of course, teaching you how to hunt and run." He wrinkled his nose. "I like the outdoors a lot, Kagome. I hope you don't mind." He coughed and looked away. "And… I'll protect you in this household no matter what happens. Sesshoumaru gave you to me, and I'm not going to play with you like he would want to. I actually want to have you as something permanent in my life."

Shaking her head, Kagome smiled a little bit at him. She was still confused at the whole situation, and now-far away from home, but with Inuyasha…she might just be able to deal with what was happening. "I always spent my time outdoors." She tried to make her voice louder, and not like a totally soft spoken twit. She had a voice after all-she should use it. Her voice grew a little stronger. "I really don't mind it, Inuyasha. I mean… " She sighed and bit her lip. "I never agreed with what my parents always talked about, and if this will teach them a lesson, it's a good thing. I think I'm getting the better part of the bargain."

"Does it mean so much to you?" He asked in surprise. "You … you really don't mind being here, and changed?" He gave her a searching look. "You didn't know about this at all-I…guess you might be scared."

"You said that you would take care of me." Her look was nothing but trusting. "That's enough for me." Hands reached up to gently touch his face and reassure him before falling back at her sides. She was comfortable here…more relaxed than she had ever thought she would be. There was a restlessness in her that demanded to be taken care of. Her gaze went to the woods outside, and without really thinking about it, went to the small window to see the land better. Inuyasha came up behind her to open the latch and a sweet smelling breeze blew in. Kagome's nose twitched at the amazing scents that came in on that one breeze, and ears twitched madly to catch the sounds of the birds outside, the chattering of servants as they hung up the clothes and the sound of rushing water nearby.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" He asked quietly. "I… I'll take you out after we are mated. My brother will not allow you to leave this house until that happens." His voice was quiet and embarrassed, and even more so when he saw the longing in the young girl's eyes as they drank in the sight of the overhanging moss and dark places in the woods, the scent of fresh pine and wet grass… Flowers dotted the ground before the forest and there was an amazing amount of scents and land that he knew she wanted to explore. The longing faded and was replaced by anger.

"You don't trust me?" She snapped. Fire was in her eyes and flared dangerously at him, a growl already present in her chest and ready to erupt into something more. "I trust you… your family and your honor not to hurt me, and you don't trust me?" Her voice broke and she reached to shove out at him, only to find her hand had been caught in his strong grip.

"Stop that." He muttered, annoyed. "It's for your own good. Who knows if your parents will send someone to try and take you back?" He shook his head. "I have you now, and I'm not about to lose you."

Oh dear… I think even if my parents relented, he wouldn't let me go… She looked up at his serious face and wondered if she would be willing to go. There was something about him that drew her, and she wondered if it was because of the new body and instincts she had, or something else. "Alright, Inuyasha. I give in. I'll stay inside here with you until things get…resolved." She was about to concede completely when she looked up at him in confusion. "What does us being… mated… have to do with anything?"

"It's what my brother said." Inuyasha's ears flattened. "I guess it's some kind of bond that forms or something. He wouldn't tell me much about it, he just laughed."

Kagome rolled her eyes and realized that a lot of things were going to be changing for her, not the least being that she was supposed be 'mated'-married-to a youkai in the next few days, and she was now a hanyou, the very creature her parents despised. And all to get their attention and realize that hanyous weren't evil She was about to say more when she yawned widely. "I guess I'm tired." She said sheepishly. "We'll talk more in the morning, Inuyasha."

He nodded and looked very determined. "Then… you don't mind…" He was having a hard time forming words and instead pulled Kagome down beside him. "We sleep now, and then we'll talk to my parents in the morning."

Kagome momentarily started when she suddenly found herself wrapped in Inuyasha's arms, but forced her stiff body to relax. His hand went up to stroke her hair, and she closed her eyes as the shocks of the day took their toll on her and she was soon asleep.

Inuyasha looked down at the sleeping form of his mate to be and smiled softly before kissing her forehead. "I'll make everything perfect for you." He insisted. "I promise." He gazed at her for a few moments longer, before falling asleep.

**

The morning sunlight streamed through the window, jolting Kagome awake as she realized that there was something warm wrapped around her, and the gentle sound of someone breathing sounded loud in her ears. She tilted her head slightly to see the sleeping face of Inuyasha.

That's right. I'm here because of what my parents did…. And I've changed, too. I'm like Inuyasha… the one they hate more than anything, his family turned me into so they can see how it feels. I'm amazed that I'm taking it so calmly, though. Shouldn't I be protesting a little? But as hard as she tried, she couldn't think of a good reason to want to go home and live with her parents ranting about youkai. I… feel more at home here! It hasn't been a full day, and already I feel like I belong. She looked down at Inuyasha again. Probably because of him.

It doesn't make sense, though! I mean…I've been changed from a human to a hanyou-somehow…and the only thing I can think of is how sad Inuyasha would be if I suddenly left. This is crazy.
As if Inuyasha heard her thoughts, he stirred and looked up at her with his amber gaze, the intensity no lessened by the fact he just woke up. Unlike her, there was no confusion in his eyes as he smiled up at her, one clawed hand touching her cheek. "You're still here. I thought… it was a dream."

Kagome shook her head. "I'm not a dream." She looked around the room. "Although I think I'm dreaming." She hadn't been in much of a state last night to really notice her surroundings, and now that she was wide awake, she was astonished at the sheer size of the room she was in.

"Wow…." She whispered. "You guys must be really rich." She blushed as soon as she said it, staring down at the sheets. Inuyasha laughed at her blunt words. "Not just rich, Kagome. My father is the Lord of the Inuyoukai… once we mate, you'll be a princess." He cupped her face in his hands. "Are you bothered by that?" He asked softly.

Kagome shook her head quickly, and stretched her muscles. "I'm just getting used to it all." Her voice was quiet and she gently put her hands over his. "Why do I not mind, Inuyasha? I'm sure you know why… I feel so drawn to you even now-when part of me says that I should be bothered at least a little that I was kidnapped. So why don't I mind?"

Grinning, Inuyasha removed his hands. "My charming personality? The lure of the poor, broken hanyou?" He teased. "Or maybe it's because we share the same blood." His tone changed from teasing to serious as he took in her shocked look. "You didn't know? How do you think that you turned hanyou anyways? You have to have some basis. I take it my brother didn't explain this to you?" He asked dryly.

Kagome shook her head swiftly, mouth going dry. At least it wasn't anything too major. I mean, I share Inuyasha's blood. Is that the only reason I feel so drawn to him? It can't be that. I felt at least empathy for him before all this happened. I wanted to at least meet him before I was made into this.

Inuyasha touched her hair softly. "Then again… I'm sorry." He whispered, nuzzling her cheek. Kagome relaxed under the touch and moved closer to him, resting her face in his throat, her breathing slowing and calming.

"It's not your fault, Inuyasha. And… I really don't mind. I did want to meet you before." She pointed out. "I never felt like my parents did. I always hoped that we could meet and get to know each other more."

He pulled away and gave her a surprised look. "Really?" He asked. He tilted his head. "You're not just saying that to make me feel better, are you? I'd rather if you were more honest with me, Kagome. You're… you're going to be my mate and I don't want you to be unhappy or hide anything from me." His expression was more solemn than before, and he held her gaze as if he could discern the truth from the depths of her silver blue eyes. Something in there must have reassured him and he smiled slightly, kissing the top of her head. "Maybe it is true. It would be the first time, for certain…" His voice trailed off and he grinned again, moving from underneath the covers and pulling her with him.

"Inuyasha! Where.. where are we going?" Kagome exclaimed as Inuyasha practically dragged her out of the bedroom and into another room, his eyes lit up with suppressed excitement.

"If you really don't mind…and want to be with me… then we can get ready for meeting my parents! They're going to be so happy that I found a mate. Sesshoumaru probably already told them by now and we can get started on the ceremony right away." As he spoke, he was opening a closet where a beautiful silk kimono lay waiting, the colors of scarlet and gold shining brightly in the overhead lights. The threads woven into the embroidery winked back at her, each strand catching in the light. It was breathtaking-and Inuyasha meant this for her to wear?

"You… you can't be serious…" She moved as if to touch the fabric then pulled away as if the bright colors would burn her. "It's much too valuable." Her mind was stunned and calculating at how much a kimono like that would cost… the gold threads and the pure silk used to make the outfit alone would cost a fortune, not to mention the effort it must have taken to created such a work of art. There were layers upon layers of the fabric. I've never even thought of owning something so extravagant in my life!

Inuyasha shook his head and pulled out the delicate creation. "It's for you to wear in formal audience in front of my mother." He blushed. "I know it's old fashioned… but my father comes from an old line and does enjoy seeing us in formal dress when we go in front of him like that…" He touched her hair. "Especially for such a situation like this one."

Kagome reconsidered and then smiled up at him. "Only in front of your parents." She agreed. "But after that, can I get into something more comfortable? I don't think I'll be able to move in something like this!" She teased. "You'll have to carry me."

Inuyasha blinked and examined the dress again. "My robes are about the same." He wrinkled his nose and pointed out another similar looking outfit. "They're wedding kimono-in our family colors. I don't think I'll be able to lift my arms!" He laughed along with her as they teased each other about how they were going to have to be lifted by body guards just to get down the aisle and devised ways of making it there on their own two feet. Kagome never felt so free to laugh and joke with somebody-before she was widely avoided because of who her parents were and most thought she had to be a close-minded snob because they were. Here-she was relaxed and comfortable, and barely noticed the time flying by as the plans grew even wilder. When it reached the point of them skating down the hallway with the kimono pulled up around their knees, she realized that she was hungry and her stomach announced it with an embarrassingly loud growl.

Inuyasha chuckled and poked at her stomach. "You growl louder than I do." He teased. "Are you hungry or just plain angry at me?" His easy grin let her know that he wasn't serious and she stuck her tongue out at him. He raised an eyebrow and her and he grin grew wider. "Well, you can't be angry at me if you're sticking your tongue out. You must be hungry."

Kagome blushed at the insinuation and looked down at her hands. "Yes… I am hungry." She mumbled. Get a grip, Kagome. She looked up at him with a teasing grin. And give him back what he deserves. "What would you do with my tongue, hmm?" She tried to keep the blushes off of her face as she taunted him, grinning widely when his face turned red.

"Uh… ah… that is…" He mock glared at her and pulled her to her feet. "Let's get something to eat. I… I don't think you want to really meet the rest of my family yet until… until you're more comfortable and everything."

Kagome blinked as he was suddenly gone, and she realized how empty the room seemed without his personality filling it up. He's going to come back-and why are you so concerned about it, anyways? What are you going to do if you're parents demand you back, despite the fact that you're no longer human? She knew that was part of her very real fear-that she would be taken back-not the fear that she wouldn't. She couldn't imagine leaving in her house with her like this-life would be absolute hell-worse than before. They'd probably lock her up-what would happen to Inuyasha? Would we be mates by then? Already I can tell he's going to be a good friend at the very least…he's so lonely-like me.

She looked up at the sudden arrival of Inuyasha, a tray full of food in his arms. "It isn't much, but it's something until dinner time." His smile was sincere as he put the food in front of her, and Kagome gasped at the amount that was there.

"I never ate so much at once!" She exclaimed. Inuyasha shook his head lightly. "Tell me honestly if you are not hungry when you see this." His face was carefully examining her, waiting for her reaction. She shook her head again, but her denial was short lived as the smell of the hot curry and beef teriyaki met her startled nose. She picked up the chopsticks that were laying by her bowl and finished off the meal with a speed that amazed her. She blushed at how rude she must have looked-but she was so very hungry.

And we haven't done anything yet. Her blush deepened at the thought. I knew that you were supposed to be hungry after something like that… but not the thought of it. Inuyasha had finished off his own curry and meat and was giving her a considering look, partly nervous, partly anticipatory.

"Kagome… my parents…" He paused and took a breath, laying the chopsticks carefully on top of the empty bowl. "They want you to be my mate before they meet you." He coughed and touched her hand lightly. "That means… "

Kagome coughed and looked away. "I know what it means." She squeaked out. "I just didn't expect it… so soon…" She looked back at him and again felt that pull when she met his eyes. Her blood warmed slightly and she leaned closer to him. "But…"

His eyes lit up and he smiled at her. "It won't be so bad?" He teased. "First time is always the hardest." He moved his hand to her face. "I do promise to take care of you, Kagome." He whispered. "I will never let anyone ever hurt you."

Nodding, she stood up, looking nervously out the window. "What about when my parents come?" She asked. She could vaguely hear the sounds of traffic outside and she shuddered in anticipation of the war that was going to erupt from her former home.

"That's another reason why…" He shrugged and looked embarrassed. "It's terrible that you have to be caught up in this, Kagome. Some foolish revenge…" He looked bitter and shook his head. "You should have had to go through this…" He was shushed by Kagome putting a finger on his lips.

"It's already happened, Inuyasha. You can't change it, can you?" She smiled gently at him. "I… I already feel connected to you-and I want to see what else…" Her nose twitched as she breathed in his warm scent, the musky smell of him dancing on her senses. She gave a small, embarrassed laugh. "So I'm old fashioned and believe in love at first sight."

He blinked and wrapped his arms around her. "You too?" He questioned. "I thought I was the only idiot that believed in trash like that." He released her for a moment. "Then-are you ready for the mating ceremony?" He asked carefully. "I don't want you rushed-but, Kagome-we do need to join ourselves. I swear it will be okay!" His voice was forceful, making her believe his words. "Right now it's only political… but we'll make it so much more." He touched her face. "We just need it now before we are not able to join at all."

Kagome nodded and looked at him uncertainly. "I… that makes sense." She said thoughtfully. "My parents… they don't love each other, I know. They were forced into marriage-like this-but…" She shrugged. "It was a political thing. My father had prestige and so did my mother. Their families wanted the power that would come from it-and made them both unhappy."

Inuyasha's ears drooped at the mention of a forced marriage. "Kagome, if you ever want out of this, just tell me. I won't have you upset or sad about this." He looked very firm. "This was set up for revenge… but… " He cupped her face in his hands. "I want you to be happy."

She smirked. "I think I'll be very happy, Inuyasha. Didn't I just admit that I think I love you? That I believe that we were meant to be?" She teased lightly. "Silly puppy. I… I want this. I don't question my feelings very often, Inuyasha. I want to be your mate, and to hell with the later consequences."

Inuyasha's smile grew and he moved his arms around her waist, holding her tightly to him. "Thank you." He whispered. "I know you've been forced.. but.. oh, Kagome-I think it's going to work out." He looked at her face carefully before leaning down to kiss her softly, taking in the scent of her skin and the way her breathing sped up before he met her lips, and his body relaxed from it's tautness as he realized that she wanted this-that she wasn't just saying it to make him feel better.

He pulled away and went down the hallway to find a servant to help them into their robes and get them ready for the mating ceremony. It was much like a human marriage performance, only in some manners, more elaborate, focusing on the joining between two souls. The young woman smiled when she saw Kagome, bowing slightly and then turning to Inuyasha to repeat the gesture. "Are you two ready then for the mating ceremony?" She asked.

Inuyasha nodded quickly and gestured towards the closet that held the precious wedding kimonos. "This would be it, Sango." He said. His grin was somewhat nervous as he looked at her. "I… I finally found someone to be with." He looked at Kagome with a soft smile. Sango's smile grew wide and she gave Kagome a hug.

"I'm so glad that you're here for Inuyasha-sama." Her voice was happy. "He's been alone for so long." There was a tapping on the door and another person appeared-this time a young man. He flashed a grin at Sango. "Is Inuyasha ready to be put in the torture device?" He teased. He paused when he saw Kagome. "And this is his lovely mate to be?"

Sango nodded and touched Kagome's shoulders gently. "Hai, this is Higurashi Kagome-" Her eyes warned Miroku to say nothing of her family-the name was very well known and he had never liked the family name-stating how cruel they were and selfish. He was very fond of Inuyasha-him being her best friend and the way that the Higurashi's spoke about him made him very angry indeed. But he took none of that on Kagome, he simply nodded and smiled at her.

"I think that you will give your family a good name, Kagome-sama." His voice was soft and cultured, but there was a teasing glint in his dark blue eyes. "You're mating with this hard headed idiot, so I hope you have the patience to do so." He began to drag Inuyasha away, the kimono safely in his arms. "We'll be back, Sango!" He called. "Let me get him all tied up and I'll return him to Kagome."

Sango laughed and waved him on, a smile on her face. "Come on, Kagome-sama. I think it is time that we got you into your mating finery." She held up the delicate kimono with care, measuring it against her body. "This will look beautiful on you. Now-get stripped down."

Kagome blushed. We didn't have servants like this at home-I was able to dress and undress myself. But clearly royalty has different rules. She took another look at the many layers of cloth that Sango was unwrapping. Maybe it's a good thing she's helping me with this. I'd probably get hopelessly tangled and wrapped up in a heap on the floor.

Sango chatted with her casually as she wrapped the fabric around her, draping in careful folds and arranging it so the cloth fell in the right places, not dragging or hanging, but almost as if she was an artist's dream come to life. It was unreal as Kagome watched in the mirror as she changed-the red accenting the highlights in her hair, the gold thread shimmering with a life of its own as she moved ever so slightly to feel the silk sliding against her skin. The material was so delicate that she was afraid she was going to rip it, but there was so many layers that even the thin silk didn't make her feel exposed.

Sango finally finished arranging the kimono and surveyed Kagome critically. "There, that is perfect!" She declared. "I believe that you will stun the sights of the youkai and humans in attendance, Kagome-sama." She brushed a hand over her hair. "You look perfect. Now, let's go meet Inuyasha-sama. He's probably waiting at the door for you." She gave her another grin.

Kagome blushed, ears moving forward to catch the sounds of Inuyasha grumbling on the other side of the door, apparently being teased by Miroku. Her lips curved into a smile as she listened to the 'encouragement' and 'advice' that the young man was giving the hanyou.

"Damn you, Miroku! I know what goes on." Inuyasha's irritated voice came clear to her, and she stepped forward, opening the door quickly to see a sheepish looking Miroku facing an annoyed Inuyasha. Inuyasha turned at the sound of the door opening and Kagome gasped at how he regal he looked-old fashioned as if he stepped from the pages of a Japanese legend.

He looked stunned as well, reaching out to touch her, pulling back as if afraid she would fall apart if he handled her the wrong way. "You… you look beautiful." His voice was awed and he didn't even notice Miroku smirking at him or the knowing smile Sango sported. Both of them looked at each other, not even noticing the ones that made them up that way.

"Are you two going to stare at each other all day, or come to the mating ceremony?" Miroku finally cut in, enjoying the startled looks on their faces. This will be a good joining. He thought with satisfaction. Even her parents will not be able to damage this.

Kagome flushed at being caught so obviously staring, but Inuyasha took her hand gently and began leading them down the passageway to where his parents were waiting to perform the ceremony. He gave her a reassuring smile and squeezed her hand. It was a short walk to the main hall.

**

Kagome's eyes widened at the size of the room. It was amazingly large, red and gold decorations on the wall, soft candlelight coming from a table in the center of the room where two people were waiting for Inuyasha and Kagome to come forward. They were very imposing, the male standing to the left tall and regal looking. Kagome gulped, feeling almost like the sacrifice villagers set out for the local youkai. It really is like I've fallen back in time. As pretty as all this is, I can't wait to get back into more comfortable clothing. Surely being 'royalty' doesn't mean I have to walk around like a china doll all the time!

Kagome could see where Inuyasha received his striking looks, though. The man's silver hair framed a handsome, strong face and amber eyes glinted in amusement as he saw the nervous looks on both of their faces. He seemed to be enjoying their movements and how close they were to each other. It's like it was supposed to happen this way. I don't know if I want to rebel or just go along with it. Kagome decided to go along-it wasn't as if it was actually a bad thing. Just mildly irritating.

The woman standing next to him was just as beautiful-long dark hair streamed down her back, violet eyes watching the soon to be joined couple intently. Her eyes lingered longest on the ears on Kagome's head, then to her son's. There was a quiet sigh and then a slight smile as she squeezed her mate's hand. Satisfaction replaced the apprehension and her smile was pure as she beckoned them to the table.

Inuyasha bowed to his father and then to his mother, nudging Kagome to do the same. Her bow was deep, trying to show them her high respect for the couple-that she wasn't like her parents in thinking that this joining was wrong, that she agreed with it. The older couple bowed in turn and then his mother began to speak.

"You come before I, Shiro, mate of the youkai lord, Inutaisho. Your request is to be formally mated, in the long standing traditions of youkai, binding heart and soul together, blood bound to blood." Her look was serious as she continued the speech. "You are aware of the severity of this joining. It not simple false promises made between human couples who are made to wed without intent to bond. This will ensure your love for one another will grow, and the bond between you will grow at the same rate, keeping in time with your hearts."

Inuyasha picked up the thread of the speech, his gaze focused on Kagome. "A youkai bonding is for eternity. Any holds on your past life will have been erased, your loyalty first to your mate and then to your new family. If the old conflicts with the new, your heart will turn to what it feels is right. The bonding will fall apart if the feelings are insincere, or a true conflict on interest comes up. When that happens, the souls of the joined will be ripped apart, both feeling the agony of loss from one another. If you wish to take this risk and join together, then each of you pick up the rings beside your hands."

"Normally in this joining, the two will share blood with one another to bind themselves closer in life and spirit. But you two are made from one another, your souls having been joined at the creation. Inuyasha, your blood runs in Kagome's veins, making her a part of you, pulling her closer to your essence. And by virtue of that intimate sharing, you are a part of her, always bound and closer than what we could ever make it."

Kagome nodded, her mouth suddenly dry. I'm getting married. Or mated. Whatever it's called in the youkai tradition. I feel so young, still.. too young for some a big commitment. And the way they sound! It's so intense, it sends shivers down my spine. She still picked up the ring, though, meeting Inuyasha's eyes with a smile as he echoed her movement, the small silver ring almost being engulfed in his hand.

"You will exchange the rings that you hold, each wearing what was meant to complete the other-it will tie you together even more securely. The spell on these rings will settle in completely after you are mated completely, and they cannot be taken off or damaged in any way. They are meant to be indestructible, as true mates should be." The formal phrasing was making Kagome antsy, but Inuyasha looked perfectly at home with what seem to Kagome like stilted dialogue. She suddenly wondered uneasily just how long he had been alone.

Inuyasha picked up her hand, sliding the silver band on her ring finger, teasingly nipping at the tips of her fingers, trying to relax her from the slightly dazed expression on her face. She followed cue and did the same for him, biting her lip nervously as she felt a wave of electricity go through her, running along her nerves.

"The joining of souls has begun, and now the bodies must join as well." Shiro gave them both a gentle smile and then winked. "You can get out of those heavy robes and into something more comfortable, too." She teased. The newly-mated couple blushed slightly, but looked eager to get out of the confining garments. They bowed deeply again, and at the return bow, they turned and started back to their rooms.