InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bleed and Breathe ❯ In Talks ( Chapter 4 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: aikidogirl 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Supernatural / Romance / Drama / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 09.21.2006 | Pages: 3 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 542 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Supernatural / Romance / Drama / Action | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 09.21.2006 | Pages: 3 | Words: 4.4K | Visits: 542 | Status: Work In Progress
Talks
Shippo could hardly stand it. The cooks were taking too long to make dinner. “Hurry up guys!”
The cooks looked at him and laughed. “Shippo calm down. Do you want her to have a half done meal, or the best tasting meal that she has ever had?”
Shippo thought about that. “Ok, but it better be all that you say it is.”
Yuri walked in just as the meals were getting finished. “Shippo, were you hanging over them this entire time?”
“I wasn’t hanging over them, I just wanted to make sure that Kagome would get the best meal ever.” he said as he gave her this ‘I didn’t do anything wrong’ puppy dog face. Yuri looked at the cooks who just smiled and shook their heads. They had all come to enjoy Shippo’s presence in a short time and they knew he meant no harm. In fact, they likes that Rin had someone to play with, it kept her from constantly trying to cook something for Sesshomaru. They set Kagome’s tray in front of Shippo to inspect it. He scanned it over thoroughly; every rice grain, every garnish.
“Shippo, the longer you stare at it the colder it will get before it gets to your mom.” Yuri said. He looked at her with a sheepish grin and nodded his head. “I’ll carry Lady Kagome’s and you can bring yours and eat with her ok?”
Shippo looked to the cook as they set his tray on the counter. “Thanks guys!”
Yuri and Shippo walked up the stairs and down the hall to the room given to Kagome. Yuri opened the door to see Kagome in a trance staring out the window. She was deep in thought and they wondered what she was thinking about. They looked at each other and slowly walked forward.
Kagome didn’t hear them walk in the room. It wasn’t until she heard a very familiar and needed voice that she was pulled from her thoughts. “Mama?” She turned to look at the boy the meek voice had come from. Their eyes met his emerald green and her gray-blue. They just stared for a minute before she smiled and opened her arms for him to hold her. He looked at Yuri and she nodded. The tray was left on the floor as Shippo took off across the room jumping onto the bed, but just before he leapt into his mother’s arms he stopped and slowly sat in her lap. His head lay on her chest and his little arms stretched around her torso as far as they would reach. Her head rested on top of his head as her arms surrounded him. They held each other for a long time, tears streamed down both of their cheeks. Yuri just waited, she did not want to interrupt such a special moment and she was grateful just to be in a room with this much love, happiness, and relief. The two finally released each other and wiped away the others tears. “I’ve missed you mama. I was so scared that you wouldn’t come back.”
“I know Shippo. I’m so sorry that you had to go through that. I’m here now though, and thanks to Sesshomaru I’ll be better than before ok?” He nodded his understanding. They turned and looked at Yuri who was picking up Shippo’s tray and walking over to them. She smiled at Kagome as she set the trays in front of them.
“I’ll come back in a bit to get the trays and take you to the spring. You and your son need some time together.” she said as she bowed and left the room. It was amazing to her. Most humans and demons couldn’t get along. These two not only get along, but they were family. They had adopted each other in everyway that matters. She wondered if Kagome would legally adopt Shippo, at least by demon law. Yuri was left with her thoughts as she went to get things ready for Kagome’s bath.
Kagome and Shippo began to eat their dinner. Kagome’s face lit up when she took her first bite. “Wow! This is the best food I have ever tasted!”
Shippo smiled. “They said it would be. The cooks wanted to make it really good for you.”
“Well they did a wonderful job, this is great.” They continued eating for a while before Kagome spoke again. “Shippo,” her voice was quiet and serious. He stopped eating and looked at her. “Don’t hate him.”
“Hate who?”
“Inuyasha. Don’t hate him ok? I know you saw everything, but it wasn’t his fault.”
“How can you say that? He killed you with his own hands. He chose Kikyo over you and killed you!” Shippo was standing on the bed at this point. Kagome looked at him and placed a hand on his face.
“Shippo…” He instantly calmed and looked at her. “I know what happened. I can’t tell you how I know, but he didn’t do it because he wanted to. Inuyasha is being controlled by Kikyo and he has to do whatever she says. I know he didn’t want to kill me. I know he doesn’t really want Kikyo around us all. Please, trust me ok?”
He looked into her eyes. She was his mother and he trusted anything she said, but sometimes he wondered about her mental health. “Ok, I will trust you on this. I won’t hate him, but I can’t say I am not still mad at him.”
“That’s ok.” She smiled at him. “So, what has been going on? How did we get here?”
Shippo told her of everything that had happened after Inuyasha killed her. He told her about being in the well and Sesshomaru bringing her back to life. He told her that Sesshomaru had carried her all the way back here and that he had made friends with Rin. “Mama, I don’t know about Sesshomaru anymore. We all thought he was evil and cruel. He saved you though and even though he hasn’t been around he has done all this.”
“I know what you mean Shippo. I guess it’s just something we will have to watch and wait on. I will try and talk to him tonight or tomorrow. I need to thank him for everything.”
The rest of the time they ate was spent in pretty much silence. Kagome asked Shippo to open the balcony doors and let some fresh air in. She missed being outside, she really was a nature girl at heart. All of her strength seemed to come from being outside; it energized her and made her feel at home. This place was anything but home, and although it was nice, she knew she was out of her element here.
Yuri walked in just as they finished dinner. “How was it my Lady?”
Kagome took a deep breath in, “I have never had such a delicious meal. I feel like a hog I am so full! I need to go to the kitchens soon and get to know the cooks!”
Yuri smiled and shook her head. “Well if you are ready I will take you to the springs and you can bathe.” Kagome nodded her head anxiously and got everything together on her and Shippo’s tray.
“Can I come too mama?” Shippo asked with pleading eyes.
“Actually Shippo,” Yuri said before Kagome could answer. “I thought maybe you could take the trays back down to the kitchens and let the cooks know how much Lady Kagome liked her meal. They are all anxious to hear what she thought and if it was satisfactory enough for the both of you.”
“Aww Miss Yuri, can’t I just tell them tomorrow? I want to be here.” Shippo whined. It’s true; he did miss Kagome a lot. He had worried about her for almost three days.
“Now Shippo, I know how much you want to be here, but Lady Kagome still needs her rest. She isn’t fully recovered and I’m sure she is very tired.” Shippo looked at Kagome. She did look tired and he did put the cooks through quite a bit.
“Ok Miss Yuri.” Shippo sighed is defeat. He kissed Kagome on the cheek and told her good night. They had the whole day tomorrow to spend together and he could show her around. He took the trays and headed down the hall to the kitchens.
Yuri walked to the dresser and grabbed a robe for after the bath. The two began to walk down the hallway chatting about pretty much nothing. Kagome looked at the exquisite paintings and art work on the walls. They were a deep burgundy color and the floors were a deep color hardwood.
“You know,” Yuri said, “Lord Sesshomaru has decorated most of this castle. Most of the rooms and hallways are decorated to his design. There are only a few rooms in the castle that are in their original state from when Lord Inu-Taisho and Sesshomaru’s mother lived here together.”
“Really?” Kagome was shocked that Sesshomaru had this kind of talent. True, most of the rooms she had peeked into were very masculine, but they were also very beautiful. “What rooms are in their original state?”
“Well your room for one.” Yuri said as Kagome looked at her surprised.
“Really? I guess that kind of makes sense, the room is pretty feminine. Who did it belong to? There are some really beautiful kimonos and hair pieces.”
“Actually Lady Kagome, you are staying in Sesshomaru’s mother’s room.” Yuri didn’t even see that Kagome had stopped walking. When she finally realized it she stopped and turned to look at the girl whose jaw was dropped to the ground.
“I’M SLEEPING WHERE!!!???” Yuri had to cover her ears. Kagome didn’t really yell it, but in a place with those sorts of acoustics it was very loud.
“Please Lady Kagome not so loud.” Yuri rubbed her temples form the echoing sound.
“I’m sorry Yuri; it’s just that, why in the hell would he put me in that room? That should like be blocked off or something.”
“Would you prefer to be in a less accommodating room, perhaps something in the dungeon?” Yuri grinned an evil grin at Kagome.
Kagome glared at the neko demon. “No. Don’t get me wrong Yuri, I cant even begin to tell you how grateful I am for everything that happened since I’ve been here, but its just too weird coming from Sesshomaru. The times that I have seen him he has been cruel and cold, and the first time I met him he tried to kill me. Now all of a sudden he is bringing me back to life and putting me up in his mother’s room and all this. I guess I am just overwhelmed. You think he will kick me out when I have recovered enough?”
“I understand Lady Kagome. It is all a bit much to take in. No, I don’t think he will kick you out. I don’t know why the Master does what he does but I know he always has a reason. Don’t you think it would be a big waste of time to bring you back to life, haul you back here and take care of you and then toss you out?” Yuri stopped in front of two large doors and turned to look at Kagome.
“I guess your right.” Kagome really did believe what Yuri was saying, but there had to be more to it.
“Good. Now that that is settled lets get you cleaned up. This is Lord Sesshomaru’s private spring, the main one is downstairs. Only this once are we allowed in here so next time someone will show you the other one.” Yuri pushed the doors open and steam poured out. Kagome walked in and saw the most beautiful oasis she had ever put her eyes on. This was the kind of place people dreamed of. Ok, well maybe not that grand, but it was something you would find in the most expensive spa in her time. Potted trees and flowers lined the walls and around the bath making a circling pathway. Candles hung on the walls and around the edge of the bath as well, keeping the room sufficiently lit, but not horribly bright. It was all in all very relaxing. There was a large birdcage with finches and lovebirds and other kinds Kagome had never seen. It was then she listened to what her ears had been hearing the entire time, rushing water. She looked over to the bath and saw a seven foot waterfall pouring into the water.
“Beautiful isn’t it?” Yuri’s voice jolted Kagome from her thoughts.
“Yea, that’s a word for it. How is this possible? We are on an upper level.” Kagome looked for Yuri to explain this one.
“I don’t know exactly how it works. I think it’s a system of pipes that brings the water up from downstairs. The pipes keep the water hot and come out somewhere up here.” Yuri pointed to the top of the waterfall. “As the water pours down it keeps the water churning therefore keeping it hot and clean. There is a drain somewhere in the pool leading outside and joins with the creek that runs through the gardens. It’s quite ingenious really.”
“Yea it is. I have never seen anything like this. Did he design this too?”
“Yes. This was a different room long ago when his parents lived here but he had it changed to this.” They walked over to the front of the bath and Yuri helped Kagome undress. She stepped into the water and instantly relaxed. Man she needed this. Yuri opened one of the bottles sitting by the edge and worked it into Kagome’s hair. It was sweet smelling oil, but the scent wasn’t overwhelming. It reminded her of someone though she couldn’t place her finger on whom. Yuri helped Kagome wash her back while she got all the other areas. Once she was satisfied that she didn’t stink to high heaven anymore she relaxed back in the water. Yuri pulled her hair into a loose bun on the top of her head.
“I’ll go put this stuff away and grab your robe, just let me know when you are ready.” Kagome could only give a “hmm” as Yuri walked away. She couldn’t even think about anything at this point. Her mind and body had turned to jelly. It had to be about ten minutes when Yuri came back to get her.
“Lady Kagome?” she said softly. “Lady Kagome, we should get you dressed so you can rest tonight.”
Kagome slowly opened her eyes. Mist hung on her lashes and they felt heavy. “Do I have to?”
“Yes my Lady, you have to.” Yuri held the robe open as Kagome crept her way out. The robe wrapped lightly around her body keeping in the heat so she didn’t get chilled. They walked back to her room and Yuri pulled out a sleeping kimono for Kagome. It was silky and form fitting, but loose at the same time.
Kagome put on the kimono and looked at herself in the mirror. She would have made a beautiful noble woman. With the kimono on and her hair pulled in a bun on the top of her head she looked good. What really did it were the loose tendrils around her face and the way her sun kissed skin shimmered with moisture. Yes, she would have made a beautiful noble woman.
“Yuri, are these his mothers clothes?”
“Yes my Lady they are. They are the only ones here suitable for you. I hope you are not offended.”
“No Yuri, I am not offended. If anything I am honored to be wearing the clothing of such a respectable Lady. Do you think Sesshomaru will mind?”
Yuri shook her head. “No I don’t think he will, and if he does then we’ll just get you some other clothes.”
A knock came on the door at that moment and a guard walked in. “Lady Kagome, Lord Sesshomaru would like to speak with you in the study.”
“Um, ok. Thank you.” Kagome looked at Yuri a bit worried as to what was going on.
“Follow me my Lady, everything will be fine.
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Sesshomaru had just returned from his hunt. He felt better after killing about five different lesser youkai. He was calmer, and had had time to think about this situation he had gotten himself into. He looked up to the door of the study just as Yuri appeared with Kagome in tow. “Lord Sesshomaru.” Yuri said as she bowed.
“Leave us.” he said coldly.
Yuri closed the door behind Kagome and she was alone. There was silence for a few minutes. Kagome wasn’t sure what she should say or do, and Sesshomaru was merely staring at her like she was the scum of the earth.
“Lord Sesshomaru.” Kagome bowed out of respect, the only thing she could think of to do. Still, he said nothing. “Um, I don’t know really how to thank you for what you have done.”
“Sit down wench.” he glared at her and she complied, although the shocked and pissed off look on her face was quite amusing. “You will explain what happened to make my brother kill you.”
“How…how did you know that he was the one that killed me?”
“I smelled his stench all over you. Now explain.”
Kagome didn’t know where to start. Should she tell him about seeing his father? Would he think she was crazy? “Ki-Kikyo made him do it. She is controlling him by means of the rosary around his neck. She and I have never really gotten along and she wanted me out of the way. I guess she was just too cowardly to do it herself.”
“You are not mad at the hanyou for what he did? Do you not want revenge?” Kagome had her head down now, her bangs covering her eyes. Sesshomaru could smell the salt of her unshed tears.
“No, I am not mad at him. I know he did not want to do what he did. It was not his fault and I bear no ill will against him. Revenge? I don’t think t want revenge. I want to save him from her. I want her to finally be at peace and give me back the rest of my soul. She died fifty years ago and was brought back by a witch. I pity her.”
Sesshomaru pondered over what she had just said. She was not lying; she really did feel that way. Perhaps this is why she could purify the jewel no matter what. She is very pure hearted, weak in his mind. Her emotions get in her way and they literally got her killed. None of that mattered now though. She didn’t know it yet but she was now his property and he would do with her as he pleased.
“You are a very interesting creature. No matter, you won’t have to worry about any of that now.” Kagome looked at the demon Lord before her confused.
“What do you mean?”
“I saved your life; technically I brought you back to life. Therefore according to youkai law you belong to me. You will now do as I tell you and…”
“The hell I will! You think just because you brought me to life I am going to become another one of your servants? Think again asshole!” She was thrown against the wall before she knew it with a very powerful hand around her throat and very sharp claws teasing her veins. Her eyes widened in fear as her hands reflexively wrapped around his wrist. He could hear her heartbeat quicken and her scent spiked in fear and adrenaline. She looked at him then, into his cold emotionless eyes. Her eyes stopped showing signs of fear even though the rest of her body betrayed those two blue-grey orbs.
“I could kill you for your disrespect do you not realize that wench?”
“If you were going to kill me you would have already.” she choked out. He gave her neck a good squeeze before dropping her to the ground in a heap. Kagome choked in the precious air that had been denied to her lungs.
“Watch your tongue bitch or you will lose it.” he walked back over to his desk and sat in the large leather chair.
“Sesshomaru-sama, I apologize for being rude, but I am no ones property. Yes, I do owe you my life, but I also have an obligation to fulfill. It is my fault the shikon no tama is broken and it is my responsibility to put it back together. My friends and I have searched too long for me to abandon them if I am alive.”
“What makes you think I will let you just walk out of this castle and find them? Even if you make it back to them the undead miko will just have him kill you again. You are weak and cannot protect yourself. You have an obligation to me now as well.” He was curious to hear what she would say to that.
Kagome’s face was downcast again, a dark shadow of her bangs over her eyes. She spoke softly, but resolutely. “I know you think I am weak, I know I am weak. I cannot protect myself or my friends; I am not good for anything except finding shards. But I know my friends care for me like a care for them, and I wouldn’t abandon them like they wouldn’t abandon me. I’ll make a deal with you Sesshomaru-sama.” She looked at him and the gleam in her eyes said do not deny me.
“You wish to make a deal with me? What would that be?” His voice was emotionless, but he wouldn’t have asked if he wasn’t curious.
“Train me. Help me get stronger. I know in your eyes I will always be weak since I am a ningen, but give me a chance to learn how to protect myself and help the others. Let me put Kikyo where she belongs and finish my journey with the others. Then I will come back here and finish my obligation to you. You have my word on that.”
Sesshomaru thought this over for a while. “Your word means nothing to me, and what good is it if I put you through this training and you die in a battle? These are the terms I shall agree to. You are mine and that started as soon as I revived you, not when you say it does.” Kagome opened her mouth to protest but stopped when Sesshomaru continued to speak. “I will train you. During that time you will remain here and take over the duties as Lady of the House. It is a respectable position to hold therefore meets your requirement of not being a servant though you will still do as I tell you to. I leave in two days for three months. During that time you will train twice a day while also maintaining your duties. When I return your skills will be tested. We will then join with your friends and finish your quest.”
“Ok let me get this straight I am going to, wait, did you just say ‘we’ will join with my friends?”
“You are an investment of what is going to be a great deal of time. Also I am not in any mood to have something of mine broken or killed unless I am the one to do it. So I am merely going to protect my investment, nothing more.”
“For the last time, I do not belong to you. I belong to me. Think about it, memorize it, remember it cuz I am not going to say it again.” He raised an eyebrow to this comment. The girl had some balls. “So how id this going to work? Anytime I feel a shard coming close or you get word from someone we are going to go and find my friends and then go find the shard? That is a waste of time, especially since there are only two shards remaining besides the two that Kouga has and the one in Kohaku’s back.”
“We shall all stay here until word comes of a shard. That way you may still tend to your duties.”
“So you are going to let more humans and a half-brother you despise stay here in your castle?” Sesshomaru just stared at her. “Well who am I to argue? I agree to your terms.”
Kagome approached him and offered her hand in agreement. Sesshomaru was reluctant, but took her hand in his. Kagome bowed and turned to leave the room but just as she reached the door she turned back around to look at Sesshomaru.
“Um, Lord Sesshomaru?
“What?”
“What does a Lady of the House have to do?”
Shippo could hardly stand it. The cooks were taking too long to make dinner. “Hurry up guys!”
The cooks looked at him and laughed. “Shippo calm down. Do you want her to have a half done meal, or the best tasting meal that she has ever had?”
Shippo thought about that. “Ok, but it better be all that you say it is.”
Yuri walked in just as the meals were getting finished. “Shippo, were you hanging over them this entire time?”
“I wasn’t hanging over them, I just wanted to make sure that Kagome would get the best meal ever.” he said as he gave her this ‘I didn’t do anything wrong’ puppy dog face. Yuri looked at the cooks who just smiled and shook their heads. They had all come to enjoy Shippo’s presence in a short time and they knew he meant no harm. In fact, they likes that Rin had someone to play with, it kept her from constantly trying to cook something for Sesshomaru. They set Kagome’s tray in front of Shippo to inspect it. He scanned it over thoroughly; every rice grain, every garnish.
“Shippo, the longer you stare at it the colder it will get before it gets to your mom.” Yuri said. He looked at her with a sheepish grin and nodded his head. “I’ll carry Lady Kagome’s and you can bring yours and eat with her ok?”
Shippo looked to the cook as they set his tray on the counter. “Thanks guys!”
Yuri and Shippo walked up the stairs and down the hall to the room given to Kagome. Yuri opened the door to see Kagome in a trance staring out the window. She was deep in thought and they wondered what she was thinking about. They looked at each other and slowly walked forward.
Kagome didn’t hear them walk in the room. It wasn’t until she heard a very familiar and needed voice that she was pulled from her thoughts. “Mama?” She turned to look at the boy the meek voice had come from. Their eyes met his emerald green and her gray-blue. They just stared for a minute before she smiled and opened her arms for him to hold her. He looked at Yuri and she nodded. The tray was left on the floor as Shippo took off across the room jumping onto the bed, but just before he leapt into his mother’s arms he stopped and slowly sat in her lap. His head lay on her chest and his little arms stretched around her torso as far as they would reach. Her head rested on top of his head as her arms surrounded him. They held each other for a long time, tears streamed down both of their cheeks. Yuri just waited, she did not want to interrupt such a special moment and she was grateful just to be in a room with this much love, happiness, and relief. The two finally released each other and wiped away the others tears. “I’ve missed you mama. I was so scared that you wouldn’t come back.”
“I know Shippo. I’m so sorry that you had to go through that. I’m here now though, and thanks to Sesshomaru I’ll be better than before ok?” He nodded his understanding. They turned and looked at Yuri who was picking up Shippo’s tray and walking over to them. She smiled at Kagome as she set the trays in front of them.
“I’ll come back in a bit to get the trays and take you to the spring. You and your son need some time together.” she said as she bowed and left the room. It was amazing to her. Most humans and demons couldn’t get along. These two not only get along, but they were family. They had adopted each other in everyway that matters. She wondered if Kagome would legally adopt Shippo, at least by demon law. Yuri was left with her thoughts as she went to get things ready for Kagome’s bath.
Kagome and Shippo began to eat their dinner. Kagome’s face lit up when she took her first bite. “Wow! This is the best food I have ever tasted!”
Shippo smiled. “They said it would be. The cooks wanted to make it really good for you.”
“Well they did a wonderful job, this is great.” They continued eating for a while before Kagome spoke again. “Shippo,” her voice was quiet and serious. He stopped eating and looked at her. “Don’t hate him.”
“Hate who?”
“Inuyasha. Don’t hate him ok? I know you saw everything, but it wasn’t his fault.”
“How can you say that? He killed you with his own hands. He chose Kikyo over you and killed you!” Shippo was standing on the bed at this point. Kagome looked at him and placed a hand on his face.
“Shippo…” He instantly calmed and looked at her. “I know what happened. I can’t tell you how I know, but he didn’t do it because he wanted to. Inuyasha is being controlled by Kikyo and he has to do whatever she says. I know he didn’t want to kill me. I know he doesn’t really want Kikyo around us all. Please, trust me ok?”
He looked into her eyes. She was his mother and he trusted anything she said, but sometimes he wondered about her mental health. “Ok, I will trust you on this. I won’t hate him, but I can’t say I am not still mad at him.”
“That’s ok.” She smiled at him. “So, what has been going on? How did we get here?”
Shippo told her of everything that had happened after Inuyasha killed her. He told her about being in the well and Sesshomaru bringing her back to life. He told her that Sesshomaru had carried her all the way back here and that he had made friends with Rin. “Mama, I don’t know about Sesshomaru anymore. We all thought he was evil and cruel. He saved you though and even though he hasn’t been around he has done all this.”
“I know what you mean Shippo. I guess it’s just something we will have to watch and wait on. I will try and talk to him tonight or tomorrow. I need to thank him for everything.”
The rest of the time they ate was spent in pretty much silence. Kagome asked Shippo to open the balcony doors and let some fresh air in. She missed being outside, she really was a nature girl at heart. All of her strength seemed to come from being outside; it energized her and made her feel at home. This place was anything but home, and although it was nice, she knew she was out of her element here.
Yuri walked in just as they finished dinner. “How was it my Lady?”
Kagome took a deep breath in, “I have never had such a delicious meal. I feel like a hog I am so full! I need to go to the kitchens soon and get to know the cooks!”
Yuri smiled and shook her head. “Well if you are ready I will take you to the springs and you can bathe.” Kagome nodded her head anxiously and got everything together on her and Shippo’s tray.
“Can I come too mama?” Shippo asked with pleading eyes.
“Actually Shippo,” Yuri said before Kagome could answer. “I thought maybe you could take the trays back down to the kitchens and let the cooks know how much Lady Kagome liked her meal. They are all anxious to hear what she thought and if it was satisfactory enough for the both of you.”
“Aww Miss Yuri, can’t I just tell them tomorrow? I want to be here.” Shippo whined. It’s true; he did miss Kagome a lot. He had worried about her for almost three days.
“Now Shippo, I know how much you want to be here, but Lady Kagome still needs her rest. She isn’t fully recovered and I’m sure she is very tired.” Shippo looked at Kagome. She did look tired and he did put the cooks through quite a bit.
“Ok Miss Yuri.” Shippo sighed is defeat. He kissed Kagome on the cheek and told her good night. They had the whole day tomorrow to spend together and he could show her around. He took the trays and headed down the hall to the kitchens.
Yuri walked to the dresser and grabbed a robe for after the bath. The two began to walk down the hallway chatting about pretty much nothing. Kagome looked at the exquisite paintings and art work on the walls. They were a deep burgundy color and the floors were a deep color hardwood.
“You know,” Yuri said, “Lord Sesshomaru has decorated most of this castle. Most of the rooms and hallways are decorated to his design. There are only a few rooms in the castle that are in their original state from when Lord Inu-Taisho and Sesshomaru’s mother lived here together.”
“Really?” Kagome was shocked that Sesshomaru had this kind of talent. True, most of the rooms she had peeked into were very masculine, but they were also very beautiful. “What rooms are in their original state?”
“Well your room for one.” Yuri said as Kagome looked at her surprised.
“Really? I guess that kind of makes sense, the room is pretty feminine. Who did it belong to? There are some really beautiful kimonos and hair pieces.”
“Actually Lady Kagome, you are staying in Sesshomaru’s mother’s room.” Yuri didn’t even see that Kagome had stopped walking. When she finally realized it she stopped and turned to look at the girl whose jaw was dropped to the ground.
“I’M SLEEPING WHERE!!!???” Yuri had to cover her ears. Kagome didn’t really yell it, but in a place with those sorts of acoustics it was very loud.
“Please Lady Kagome not so loud.” Yuri rubbed her temples form the echoing sound.
“I’m sorry Yuri; it’s just that, why in the hell would he put me in that room? That should like be blocked off or something.”
“Would you prefer to be in a less accommodating room, perhaps something in the dungeon?” Yuri grinned an evil grin at Kagome.
Kagome glared at the neko demon. “No. Don’t get me wrong Yuri, I cant even begin to tell you how grateful I am for everything that happened since I’ve been here, but its just too weird coming from Sesshomaru. The times that I have seen him he has been cruel and cold, and the first time I met him he tried to kill me. Now all of a sudden he is bringing me back to life and putting me up in his mother’s room and all this. I guess I am just overwhelmed. You think he will kick me out when I have recovered enough?”
“I understand Lady Kagome. It is all a bit much to take in. No, I don’t think he will kick you out. I don’t know why the Master does what he does but I know he always has a reason. Don’t you think it would be a big waste of time to bring you back to life, haul you back here and take care of you and then toss you out?” Yuri stopped in front of two large doors and turned to look at Kagome.
“I guess your right.” Kagome really did believe what Yuri was saying, but there had to be more to it.
“Good. Now that that is settled lets get you cleaned up. This is Lord Sesshomaru’s private spring, the main one is downstairs. Only this once are we allowed in here so next time someone will show you the other one.” Yuri pushed the doors open and steam poured out. Kagome walked in and saw the most beautiful oasis she had ever put her eyes on. This was the kind of place people dreamed of. Ok, well maybe not that grand, but it was something you would find in the most expensive spa in her time. Potted trees and flowers lined the walls and around the bath making a circling pathway. Candles hung on the walls and around the edge of the bath as well, keeping the room sufficiently lit, but not horribly bright. It was all in all very relaxing. There was a large birdcage with finches and lovebirds and other kinds Kagome had never seen. It was then she listened to what her ears had been hearing the entire time, rushing water. She looked over to the bath and saw a seven foot waterfall pouring into the water.
“Beautiful isn’t it?” Yuri’s voice jolted Kagome from her thoughts.
“Yea, that’s a word for it. How is this possible? We are on an upper level.” Kagome looked for Yuri to explain this one.
“I don’t know exactly how it works. I think it’s a system of pipes that brings the water up from downstairs. The pipes keep the water hot and come out somewhere up here.” Yuri pointed to the top of the waterfall. “As the water pours down it keeps the water churning therefore keeping it hot and clean. There is a drain somewhere in the pool leading outside and joins with the creek that runs through the gardens. It’s quite ingenious really.”
“Yea it is. I have never seen anything like this. Did he design this too?”
“Yes. This was a different room long ago when his parents lived here but he had it changed to this.” They walked over to the front of the bath and Yuri helped Kagome undress. She stepped into the water and instantly relaxed. Man she needed this. Yuri opened one of the bottles sitting by the edge and worked it into Kagome’s hair. It was sweet smelling oil, but the scent wasn’t overwhelming. It reminded her of someone though she couldn’t place her finger on whom. Yuri helped Kagome wash her back while she got all the other areas. Once she was satisfied that she didn’t stink to high heaven anymore she relaxed back in the water. Yuri pulled her hair into a loose bun on the top of her head.
“I’ll go put this stuff away and grab your robe, just let me know when you are ready.” Kagome could only give a “hmm” as Yuri walked away. She couldn’t even think about anything at this point. Her mind and body had turned to jelly. It had to be about ten minutes when Yuri came back to get her.
“Lady Kagome?” she said softly. “Lady Kagome, we should get you dressed so you can rest tonight.”
Kagome slowly opened her eyes. Mist hung on her lashes and they felt heavy. “Do I have to?”
“Yes my Lady, you have to.” Yuri held the robe open as Kagome crept her way out. The robe wrapped lightly around her body keeping in the heat so she didn’t get chilled. They walked back to her room and Yuri pulled out a sleeping kimono for Kagome. It was silky and form fitting, but loose at the same time.
Kagome put on the kimono and looked at herself in the mirror. She would have made a beautiful noble woman. With the kimono on and her hair pulled in a bun on the top of her head she looked good. What really did it were the loose tendrils around her face and the way her sun kissed skin shimmered with moisture. Yes, she would have made a beautiful noble woman.
“Yuri, are these his mothers clothes?”
“Yes my Lady they are. They are the only ones here suitable for you. I hope you are not offended.”
“No Yuri, I am not offended. If anything I am honored to be wearing the clothing of such a respectable Lady. Do you think Sesshomaru will mind?”
Yuri shook her head. “No I don’t think he will, and if he does then we’ll just get you some other clothes.”
A knock came on the door at that moment and a guard walked in. “Lady Kagome, Lord Sesshomaru would like to speak with you in the study.”
“Um, ok. Thank you.” Kagome looked at Yuri a bit worried as to what was going on.
“Follow me my Lady, everything will be fine.
------------------------------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------------------
Sesshomaru had just returned from his hunt. He felt better after killing about five different lesser youkai. He was calmer, and had had time to think about this situation he had gotten himself into. He looked up to the door of the study just as Yuri appeared with Kagome in tow. “Lord Sesshomaru.” Yuri said as she bowed.
“Leave us.” he said coldly.
Yuri closed the door behind Kagome and she was alone. There was silence for a few minutes. Kagome wasn’t sure what she should say or do, and Sesshomaru was merely staring at her like she was the scum of the earth.
“Lord Sesshomaru.” Kagome bowed out of respect, the only thing she could think of to do. Still, he said nothing. “Um, I don’t know really how to thank you for what you have done.”
“Sit down wench.” he glared at her and she complied, although the shocked and pissed off look on her face was quite amusing. “You will explain what happened to make my brother kill you.”
“How…how did you know that he was the one that killed me?”
“I smelled his stench all over you. Now explain.”
Kagome didn’t know where to start. Should she tell him about seeing his father? Would he think she was crazy? “Ki-Kikyo made him do it. She is controlling him by means of the rosary around his neck. She and I have never really gotten along and she wanted me out of the way. I guess she was just too cowardly to do it herself.”
“You are not mad at the hanyou for what he did? Do you not want revenge?” Kagome had her head down now, her bangs covering her eyes. Sesshomaru could smell the salt of her unshed tears.
“No, I am not mad at him. I know he did not want to do what he did. It was not his fault and I bear no ill will against him. Revenge? I don’t think t want revenge. I want to save him from her. I want her to finally be at peace and give me back the rest of my soul. She died fifty years ago and was brought back by a witch. I pity her.”
Sesshomaru pondered over what she had just said. She was not lying; she really did feel that way. Perhaps this is why she could purify the jewel no matter what. She is very pure hearted, weak in his mind. Her emotions get in her way and they literally got her killed. None of that mattered now though. She didn’t know it yet but she was now his property and he would do with her as he pleased.
“You are a very interesting creature. No matter, you won’t have to worry about any of that now.” Kagome looked at the demon Lord before her confused.
“What do you mean?”
“I saved your life; technically I brought you back to life. Therefore according to youkai law you belong to me. You will now do as I tell you and…”
“The hell I will! You think just because you brought me to life I am going to become another one of your servants? Think again asshole!” She was thrown against the wall before she knew it with a very powerful hand around her throat and very sharp claws teasing her veins. Her eyes widened in fear as her hands reflexively wrapped around his wrist. He could hear her heartbeat quicken and her scent spiked in fear and adrenaline. She looked at him then, into his cold emotionless eyes. Her eyes stopped showing signs of fear even though the rest of her body betrayed those two blue-grey orbs.
“I could kill you for your disrespect do you not realize that wench?”
“If you were going to kill me you would have already.” she choked out. He gave her neck a good squeeze before dropping her to the ground in a heap. Kagome choked in the precious air that had been denied to her lungs.
“Watch your tongue bitch or you will lose it.” he walked back over to his desk and sat in the large leather chair.
“Sesshomaru-sama, I apologize for being rude, but I am no ones property. Yes, I do owe you my life, but I also have an obligation to fulfill. It is my fault the shikon no tama is broken and it is my responsibility to put it back together. My friends and I have searched too long for me to abandon them if I am alive.”
“What makes you think I will let you just walk out of this castle and find them? Even if you make it back to them the undead miko will just have him kill you again. You are weak and cannot protect yourself. You have an obligation to me now as well.” He was curious to hear what she would say to that.
Kagome’s face was downcast again, a dark shadow of her bangs over her eyes. She spoke softly, but resolutely. “I know you think I am weak, I know I am weak. I cannot protect myself or my friends; I am not good for anything except finding shards. But I know my friends care for me like a care for them, and I wouldn’t abandon them like they wouldn’t abandon me. I’ll make a deal with you Sesshomaru-sama.” She looked at him and the gleam in her eyes said do not deny me.
“You wish to make a deal with me? What would that be?” His voice was emotionless, but he wouldn’t have asked if he wasn’t curious.
“Train me. Help me get stronger. I know in your eyes I will always be weak since I am a ningen, but give me a chance to learn how to protect myself and help the others. Let me put Kikyo where she belongs and finish my journey with the others. Then I will come back here and finish my obligation to you. You have my word on that.”
Sesshomaru thought this over for a while. “Your word means nothing to me, and what good is it if I put you through this training and you die in a battle? These are the terms I shall agree to. You are mine and that started as soon as I revived you, not when you say it does.” Kagome opened her mouth to protest but stopped when Sesshomaru continued to speak. “I will train you. During that time you will remain here and take over the duties as Lady of the House. It is a respectable position to hold therefore meets your requirement of not being a servant though you will still do as I tell you to. I leave in two days for three months. During that time you will train twice a day while also maintaining your duties. When I return your skills will be tested. We will then join with your friends and finish your quest.”
“Ok let me get this straight I am going to, wait, did you just say ‘we’ will join with my friends?”
“You are an investment of what is going to be a great deal of time. Also I am not in any mood to have something of mine broken or killed unless I am the one to do it. So I am merely going to protect my investment, nothing more.”
“For the last time, I do not belong to you. I belong to me. Think about it, memorize it, remember it cuz I am not going to say it again.” He raised an eyebrow to this comment. The girl had some balls. “So how id this going to work? Anytime I feel a shard coming close or you get word from someone we are going to go and find my friends and then go find the shard? That is a waste of time, especially since there are only two shards remaining besides the two that Kouga has and the one in Kohaku’s back.”
“We shall all stay here until word comes of a shard. That way you may still tend to your duties.”
“So you are going to let more humans and a half-brother you despise stay here in your castle?” Sesshomaru just stared at her. “Well who am I to argue? I agree to your terms.”
Kagome approached him and offered her hand in agreement. Sesshomaru was reluctant, but took her hand in his. Kagome bowed and turned to leave the room but just as she reached the door she turned back around to look at Sesshomaru.
“Um, Lord Sesshomaru?
“What?”
“What does a Lady of the House have to do?”