InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Chou Shoki I: Learning from Yesterday ❯ Chapter 32 ( Chapter 31 )

Greetings great readers!

 

As always, it's has been a pleasure to read all your encouraging reviews. I'm grateful to all of you who have been patiently waiting for this next update. Before you start reading this chapter, I wish to address certain things

 

tai: Regarding your questions about her `monthly pains' and her `secret companion', well I can't really tell you the exact details. Her monthly pains will be explained eventually. And her `secret companion' will just have to remain that, but not for long. Sorry about not being more detailed. I just can't ruin the plot or else you might just stop reading.

 

fred: I'm still blushing from all that you said! Thank you so much! And you're English is perfect!

 

lemuria: I thought I lost you somewhere along the lines! I'm so glad I haven't.

 

Genie666: Thank you and hope to keep hearing from you.

 

half Kat Demon Kagome: Great you're still around!

 

And as always, good news always travels with bad. First of all, the drawings for my fic that we were working on were cancelled. My `friend' and I had a little disagreement and well...let's just say I'll have to be looking for a new artist. Secondly, after the next update it will be some time until the next chapters. With the relocation to a new city, it'll be a while (probably about a month or so) until I post. So, please be patient and do continue to review!

 

ALERT: I received horrible news last week! One of my readers/reviewers alerted me that my story was being posted on fanlib.com by someone passing MY story as theirs! I have NEVER, and DON'T plan to, post my story on that site. I haven't had time to see to this. I was completely outraged but with work up to my neck, I can barely think. I'm asking all of you to check this out if you can. And if, indeed, this is true please alert me so I can see that this matter is resolved. I can't believe the nerve of some people! Can't they think on their own?!

 

Anyways, sorry about blabbing on like this. Enjoy the chapters!

 

 

I have had, and may still, a thousand friends, as they are called, in life, who are like one's partners in the waltz of this world - not much remembered when the ball is over.

-Lord Byron

 

 

CHAPTER 32

 

1204 A.D. ~ mid SEPTEMBER ~

 

For the next few days, Sesshoumaru and Eriko came and went with me to the different towns I traveled to. He offered to take us to the villages so my arrivals and departures would be faster. Hiroyaki was busy with my father the entire time to even notice when I came or went. I had to admit that his way of travel was much faster than when I traveled on Kirara. In spite of my admittance that I had begun to harbor feelings for the inu youkai prince, I refused to ever act upon them. The fighter in me would forever retaliate against something that it could not control and against someone that could do the damage that no one had ever been able to. Not once in my short existence had I felt so lost as this man was beginning to make me feel.

 

I hated it!

 

Oh, why why why did he have to go and be nice? Why couldn't he have just stayed the suave but shallow libertine it had been so easy to believe him? Now he was something else altogether, someone I feared I might actually come to fall for - literally.

 

I felt myself weaken at the idea. Shutting my eyes, I tossed the stupid feelings and concentrated on the here and now. Sesshoumaru was attentively listening to Eriko tell one of her made up stories. Kirara was lounging about at the edge of the spring, watching the fish swim by. This was the scene at the moment.

 

We usually sat a clearing about a day and a half's walk from the palace. This clearing was perfect. It had been the place where my mother, Kyo and I would head out to in our morning rides. The small glade offered a magnificent river with a hot spring, a cave opening, and above it all it, offered the seclusion we sought.

 

Most of the times, we just talked. Eriko was surprisingly unafraid of the demon, who'd been very attentive and gentle with the child. The three of us would sit by the spring for hours laughing (on their behalf; the gesture seemed to still evade me), playing and simply enjoying each others company. There were times when I liked to believe that the Kami had set our paths together for a reason. Each one of us had lost someone dear to us and had in a similar fashion, found each other when we needed the other most. It was the most absurd thought. The Kami would never give me something that could bring joy to my life.

 

Sesshoumaru talked about his childhood. He told me about his relationship with his parents and his `brothers'. He revealed to me that Ujio and Juro were, in fact, not his real brothers. Though Ujio and Juro were indeed brothers, they were his cousins. It so happened that a few years before Sesshoumaru was born, Ujio and Juro's father, Lord Iwao (stone man), who was Lord Keiji's half-brother, and the Inu no Taishou promised to take care of each other's pups in case something ever happened to them. And when their parents were killed by some miko (which explained Ujio's hatred), both dog demons were left in the care of the Inu no Taishou. He and Lady Aikiko had raised them as their own.

 

I learned so many things about him and in such a short time. He was completely open and held absolutely nothing back. He spoke about his fears and ambitions. I knew him in a way that I had never thought possible. Sesshoumaru even confessed his desire to still mate Michiru. As hard as it was to swallow, I could see the reasoning behind it.

 

“She's intelligent, graceful and indoctrinated on how to be the mate of a Daiyoukai. She would be my perfect mate.”

 

Of course she would be. I was beginning to think so myself.

 

I tried to respond to his trust by talking to him about my childhood, or what little of it I had had and remembered. My dislike of contact seemed to disappear around him. I spoke of my life before my mother and Kyo died, the years at the monastery and what I had done since coming home. I shared with him my views on life, which I had not shared with anyone else in dread of not being accepted. There were things which I could still not tell him. Things which I was well aware he sensed I held back. And if he did, he never once pressured me or made me feel guilty for doing so. Every moment I wondered whether he would understand about all the things I had done. The village.

 

Furthermore, we both came to appreciate each other in a way no one else could. He valued me for me and I valued his intelligence. We saw beyond what anyone had ever seen. We respected one another and at times would contribute insights to better ourselves. Other times we would help the other train. I helped him be a better hunter, to become the invisible warrior he should be and become one with his surroundings. He learned to trust in his instincts and to see with the eyes of his inner demon. Sesshoumaru taught me how to wield the sword correctly and to rely on someone.

 

But one thing which I was glad for getting of my chest was my awkward relationship with my father. There were times - I told him - that I felt him being extremely overprotective when it came to my safety. Other times the okami would completely ignore me for days until some urgent news of my services were needed and then he'd be pushing me out the door. And still other times, he would treat me so different. It was a tad unnerving and quite peculiar.

 

Perhaps I was wrong but I could almost swear he looked and treated me like... a wife.

 

Needless this last confession didn't sit well with the inu youkai. He never once made any comments regarding this, but he really didn't have to. His body language as well as the look in his eyes told me how much it all disturbed him.

 

They had even convinced me to sing to them on occasions. As it turned out, Kirara had warmed up to the inu youkai - albeit gradually. She was still a bit hesitant and defensive around him, but she no longer tried to “give him a new face” as she put it. Eriko had even managed to astonish us with a song she composed on her own.

 

“Lord Sesshoumaru,” she ran up to him that evening. “I have composed a song. Do you wish to hear it?” she asked happily.

 

Sesshoumaru looked at me and then glanced down at her. “Hai. Wouldn't we, Lady Kagome?”

 

“I suppose,” I replied uninterestedly. “What do you think Kirara?”

 

The neko purred and jumped in my lap. Eriko squealed joyfully and walked to the middle of the group. She stood straight, hands behind her back, and cleared her throat.

 

Nama no naka In the mountain
Mori no naka In the forest
Kaze no naka In the wind
Yume no naka In a dream
Kagome-sama doko ni iru Where are you, Kagome-sama?
Sesshy-sama wo shita naete With an ally like Sesshy-sama
Watashi wa hitori de machimashou I will wait alone until you come.
Kagome-sama omodori wo* Kagome-sama please return.

 

*(A/N: I changed the lyrics and it's origins to fit the story, but in the future you'll know why.)

 

They applauded and that became a traveling song that Eriko would sing every time we would all travel together.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~

 

He would look at her every once in a while, noticing her every reaction for the past few days. The way she would cock her head when she felt something coming too close for her liking or the way she would twist an invisible ring on her left hand ring finger whenever he was too near for her comfort or the way she would pretend not to listen even when he knew that she was glued to their every word. Mostly, he liked to see the way the light captured the different hues of violet that passed through her eyes. He wondered how it was that this small woman could entice him like no other ever had.

 

It was that spark. That damnable spark that never seemed to dim between them. That awful prickle of awareness that burned every time she entered a scene, or took a breath, or narrowed her eyes. That sinking feeling that he could, if he let himself, love her.

 

Which was the one thing he feared the most.

Perhaps the only thing he feared at all.

 

It was ironic, but death was the one thing he wasn't afraid of. Death wasn't frightening to a youkai alone. The great beyond held no terror when one had managed to avoid attachments in their life. Love was truly a spectacular, sacred thing. It was so seldom found in youkai society and so much different to the love that humans professed. Kagome would never be able to understand his reasons. Or his love.

 

But love was the enemy of the dying youkai. It was the only thing that could make the rest of his years intolerable - to taste bliss and know that it would all be snatched away. Mate, procreate and die. Such was the life of a demon lord, even one whose entire maternal lineage had not dropped unexpectedly dead at the age of two hundred and ten.

 

No, he needed someone he could never feel something this deep for. He needed Michiru.

 

He'd actually felt a resigned sort of satisfaction upon the utter of Michiru's name from Kagome and her understanding of his reasoning behind his desire to mate the she-wolf. He was eager to bind himself to the demoness and be done with it. He did feel a measure of uneasiness over what had happened with Kagome, but there seemed little to be done now unless he wanted to go to the trouble of finding another prospective mate.

 

Which he did not. Once Sesshoumaru made a decision - in this case to finally get a mate - he saw no reason in courting delays. Procrastination was for those with a bit more time to live out their lives. Sesshoumaru might have avoided the mousetrap for nearly two decades, but now that he'd decided it was time for a mate, there seemed little sense in tarrying.

 

“She's intelligent, graceful and indoctrinated to be the mate of a Daiyoukai. She would be my perfect mate. All that's left is your approval.”

 

Clearly, all he could do now was keep things between Kagome and him as peaceful as possible. An apology would probably also be in order. It wouldn't be easy, since the last thing he wanted to do was humble himself to this woman, but the whispers of his conscience had risen to a dull roar, and he knew she deserved the words, `I'm sorry'. She probably deserved more, but Sesshoumaru was unwilling to contemplate what that might be. Their kisses had been too heated and the feel of her skin was maddening enough. He definitely didn't want to wonder down that road.

 

“That may very well be true.”

 

Sesshoumaru quirked a brow. “I'm shocked, Lady Kagome. I had donned all my armor and was expecting you to return with `I know quite enough.'”

 

Kagome tried not to make a face at his imitation of her voice. But her expression was wry in the extreme as she said, “I promised my father I would be on my best behavior for the next few days.”

 

Sesshoumaru let out a hoot of laughter.

 

“Strangely enough,” Kagome muttered, “Lana had the same reaction.”

 

He leaned one had against the rock wall of the mountain she was leaning, carefully avoiding the sharp edges. “I find myself insanely curious as to what constitutes good behavior.”

 

There it was again - the twirl of that invisible ring - before she shrugged and took one step to the side. “I expect I shall figure that out as I go along.”

 

“But you're not supposed to argue with a lord, correct?”

 

The miko shot him an arch look. “There is some debate over whether or not you qualify as a lord. After all, the modification on my behavior was only extended to my father's guests.”

 

“True,” he acceded, “but I am one nonetheless.”

 

“Yes,” she muttered, “Lana said as much.”

 

He chuckled. “Oh, if you could only see your face right now. You look just like a scolded child.”

 

She forced down a smile. “I should think less of you for such a ploy,” she said.

 

“But you don't?”

 

She shook her head. “But then again, it's not as if my opinion of you could sink very much lower?”

 

“Ouch.” He shook a clawed-finger at her. “I thought you were supposed to be on your best behavior.”

 

Kagome looked around. “It doesn't count if there is no one nearby to hear me, right?”

 

“I can hear you.”

 

“You certainly don't count.”

 

His head dipped a little in her direction. “I should think I was the only one who did.”

 

The miko said nothing, not wanting even to meet his eyes. Whenever she allowed herself one glimpse into those velvety depths, her stomach started flipping anew.

 

“Lady Kagome?” he murmured. She looked up. Big mistake. Her stomach flipped again.

 

“Why have you sought me out?” she asked. He was well aware that her question was in regards to his two week stay and not about this precise moment.

 

“I didn't actually. I was on my way to the Southern Lands. I was just as surprised as you.”

 

Something about his answer was off. If what he said was true, then why the hell had he been trailing her all this time?

 

“But now that I have found you,” he said. “I did have something to say.”

 

“Something you haven't already said?” she quipped. “I can't imagine.”

 

He ignored her jibe. “I wanted to apologize.”

 

That got her attention. Her lips parted with shock, and her eyes grew round. “I beg your pardon?” she said. The demon prince thought her voice sounded rather like a frog.

 

“I owe you an apology for my behavior the other night,” he said. “I did not ask before I acted.”

 

“You're apologizing for the marking?” she asked, still looking rather dazed.

 

The mark? He hadn't even considered apologizing for marking her. He'd never apologized for kissing her, much less for placing his claim on her. He'd actually been thinking more of the unpleasant situations he'd placed her in. “Er, yes,” he lied, “the mark. And for the many problems I have caused you.”

 

“I see,” she murmured. “I didn't think demons apologized.”

 

His hand flexed, then made a tight fist. It was damned annoying, this habit of hers always to jump to conclusions about him. “This demon does,” he said in clipped tones.

 

She took a deep breath, then let it out in a long, steady exhale. “I suppose I could consider it.”

 

Knowing the stubborn female, he realized that that was as close to an acceptance as anything. “Excellent,” he said, offering his most winning smile.

 

She nodded. “But don't think this means that I will suddenly change my mind about you and Michiru.”

 

Sesshoumaru crossed his arms across his chest and scowled at her. “Keh! I would never dream of considering you so easily swayed,” he said, quite honestly.

 

His posture threw her a bit off guard. Only in her dreams had she seen him act so careless and at ease like this. She turned her head up, her eyes startling direct, even for her. “The fact remains that you marked me,” she said bluntly.

 

“And you kissed me,” he could not resist returning.

 

Her cheeks turned a delightful shade of pink. “The fact remains,” she repeated determinedly, “that it happened. And should you marry Michiru - regardless of your reputations, which I do not consider inconsequential- ”

 

“No,” he murmured, interrupting her with velvet soft tones, “I didn't think you would.”

 

She glared at him. “Regardless of your reputation, they would always be between us. Once something happens, unfortunately, you can't take it away.”

 

The devil in Sesshoumaru nearly compelled him to drawl the word, “They?” forcing her to repeat the words, “The kiss and your mark,” but instead he took pity on her and let it go. Besides, she had a good point. The kiss and his claim would always be between them. Even now, with her cheeks pinkened by embarrassment and her lips pursed with irritation, he found himself wondering how she'd feel if he pulled her into his arms, how she'd taste if he traced the outline of her lips with his tongue.

 

Would she smell like the glade? Or would that maddening scent of gardenias and lilies still cling to her skin? Would she melt into this embrace as she had before? Or would she push him away and chain him to another wall?

 

There was only one way to find out, and doing so would ruin his chances with Michiru forever.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

It was strange how in a few days we had become so close. Sesshoumaru and I never brought up the subject about whatever feelings, if any, existed between each other. I suppose it was because we both knew that we were both treading dangerous grounds. As for me, I was just happy to be able to share some time with him.

 

Like today...

 

“Come on, you have to promise. And don't you dare use your nose. No demonic sensing, do you hear me?” I looked him over to see if he was really being honest.

 

“Well you should have masked the scent of whatever it is you don't want me to smell!” He snapped.

 

“Then what fun would it have been?!” I chided. “Look, just keep your eyes closed and let me guide you. It's not like I'm going to pounce on you or anything.”

 

He stopped and lifted an eyebrow. “Now, would that be such a bad idea?” He had a grin from ear to ear.

 

I smacked him hard on the back of his head. “HENTAI!! Is that all you think about?”

 

“Stupid wench! You were the one who brought it up!” He rubbed the back of his head.

 

“WE'RE HERE!” I held both his hand in mine. The simple action made my heart beat faster. “Alright lift your foot a bit. There are five steps up.” A small breeze blew and a gentle whisper filled the inside of the cave. “Now, walk straight. Turn left...keep walking straight...stop.”

 

Halting on our path, I turned back to him. “Alright. You can open your eyes now.”

 

He slowly opened his eyes and I caught my breath. The flickering of the few candles inside the cave were the only light. But that was enough light to set his eyes on fire. He looked... perfect. His pale, smooth skin glowed. His magenta stripes and the bluish-purple gengetsu (crescent moon) - the only dark marks on him - seemed to darken more in the poor light.

 

“Beautiful.” I almost didn't catch his word, were it not for the fact that I had been looking at his lips. “What is this place?”

 

“Remember I told you about my morning rides with my mother?” He nodded. “Well, this is the place we would stay until sunrise. It was our own little secret haven. As you can see,” I said while waving my hand around the place, “I have everything I could possible need in here. I have been adding throughout the years. When mother and I last visited together, we only had that futon and a chest with two or three kimono. The decorations on the walls were only that small parchment you see there that Kyo made of our family and a drawing of Kirara I made for her.”

 

Sesshoumaru walked around looking at the cylinder openings I had carved for the scrolls. He surveyed the medium sized space that was my sanctuary from the world and when he looked at me, I couldn't help but hold my breath. That was when I remembered the other reason for bringing him here. I walked past him to a large boulder with twenty-five sutra and carved prayers on it.

 

I touched the rock and read the prayer. A blue light traveled upon each of the words in the stone and it began to move aside. When it was completely aside, a large opening could be seen and a dusty chest with more sutra on it. I walked inside and opened the chest.

 

“What is it?” He inquired.

 

“You'll see.” Stepping into the light of the room, I gave him a wrapped silver bundle. He looked at me and questioning me with his gaze. “Open it. I hope you like it.”

 

He removed the ribbon that held it. When he opened it he once again looked at me. “It was my mother's. She had it blessed at Mt. Hiei. It brought her many blessings. Before she died, she gave it to me. Now, I'm giving it to you.”

 

“I can't possibly take this. I don't deserve it.” He passed the material through his fingers.

 

“Of course you can. It belonged to a great person.” I put my hand on his cheek and made him face me. “Now it will belong to another great person.”

 

His abrupt embrace blew the air out of my lungs. It took a few minutes for me to recover from my air loss, but I wrapped my arms around him too. “Arigatou. I will make sure to honor you and your mother when I wear it. But what made you decide to give this to me?”

 

I pushed him away a little so I could see his face. “Honestly, I've been thinking about what I could give you. Today is the nineteenth day since we have begun traveling together and I wanted to get you something. Besides, you need more color on you. That plain white hitatare and grey trousers don't do much for you.” Kami only knew that that was not entirely true. For crying out loud, he looked good in anything!

 

“Do you disapprove of my clothing?” I caught a hint of hurt in his tone.

 

“Iiee,” shaking my head, “that's not it. I just think something with color will bring out your- ” I stopped mid sentence.

 

He smirked and whispered in my ear. “My what?”

 

I retorted quickly. Too quickly. “Er... your hair.”

 

Standing up, I extended the yellow sash with blue ends. “May I?”

 

“It would be a pleasure.” He stood and lifted his arms. I grabbed the sash with my left hand and put it behind him. I stretched my right arm around his torso to grab the cloth. He looked down on me and I was caught in the abyss of his eyes with my arms around him.

 

We gazed into each other's eyes, afraid to make any movements. His words broke the silence. “Arigatou.” I blinked several times and finished the task by making a loose knot in the front.

 

He brought his arms down. “So, how does it look?”

 

“Perfect.” I went back to the wall and repeated the prayer. The large boulder moved to cover the opening once more. “I'm going to start a honoo (fire) for dinner and then afterwards we are going to have to leave. My otou-san will want to speak to me about tomorrow. Besides, I'm not sure Eriko can keep to herself that long. She might give herself away.”

 

Dinner was quite. He didn't eat much. He only had a rather small raw fish and a rice ball that I offered. When we finished, he put out the fire and walked outside with me. At the entrance Sesshoumaru stopped and knit his eyebrows together. He glanced around inspecting everything.

 

His golden gaze met mine. “Thank you, Kagome. Not just for this,” - pointed to the obi - “but for giving me the greatest gift you could have given me.”

 

I frowned at his response. “What are you talking about?” Maybe he didn't do well inside closed spaces.

 

He got up and kneeled in front of me. “You've opened yourself up to me. Trusted me.”

 

I grew silent as I realized he was right. I'd told him things I'd never told anyone else. But it was so easy to talk to him. Unlike others, he didn't seem to judge me for my past or my mistakes. He made me forget to be guarded.

 

“I guess you and your brothers will have a good laugh at me then when you talk later.”

 

His expression changed instantly to one of indignation. “I would never tell someone what you've told me here. Ever. What kind of person do you think I am?”

 

I didn't answer him. “Perhaps we should go back to insulting each other. I think that was easier.”

 

He shook his head at me. “Not easier. Just safer.”

 

Damn, he was intelligent. Sometimes more so than was good for my peace of mind. “I like safety.”

 

Sesshoumaru laughed. “This from a woman who fights demons single-handedly? Are you really that afraid of me?”

 

“Unlike you, other demons are easy.” They didn't make me want to hold them.

 

“How so?”

 

“They only take your life.”

 

He arched a single brow. “And me?”

 

You could easily take my heart. The truth of that seared me right where I stood. I had never felt like that.

 

Ever. But Sesshoumaru…

 

He was honest and caring. Two things no one had ever been to me. When Sesshoumaru touched me, my body reacted viciously. A single smile from him could make my entire being burn. One touch from his hand and I was undone. It was terrifying to think of how much power this one man had over me. How one single gesture from him could affect me so profoundly.

 

Still, he held that playful look on his handsome face. “You didn't answer me, Kagome?”

 

I stepped away from him. “Answer you about what?”

 

“Why are you afraid of me?”

 

Could he be more relentless? Unwilling to confess my feeling, I gave him a flippant response. “You are the son of the most powerful Daiyoukai. Who in their right mind wouldn't be afraid of you?”

 

He tsked at me. “Why are you hiding?”

 

“Who says I'm hiding?”

 

“That nervous look you keep casting to the entrance like you're wanting someone to come through it and rescue you.” He made bock-bock animal noises at me as he bent his arms and flapped them like wings.

 

I was aghast at his actions. “You're not seriously calling me chicken?”

 

The playful look on his face was extremely attractive. “If the beak fits…”

 

I should be angry, but a foreign part of me was amused by his audacity. “You live to taunt me, don't you?”

 

“We have to live for something, and I have to say it's quite amusing to watch the confusion in those gorgeous eyes of yours. They just sparkle whenever I nettle you.”

 

I was stunned by his unexpected compliment. “My eyes are gorgeous?”

 

“Yes. Very striking.”

 

That should have had no effect on me whatsoever and yet his words set me on fire. I didn't know why the thought of him finding me attractive should even register. Hundred of men, literally, had found me attractive all around Nippon. They used to send lavish gifts by the dozen.

 

But his words made my heart speed up. Made my palms sweat. Made me so hot that I could barely stand being around him.

 

“We should leave.”

 

Sesshoumaru only smirked and changed the subject as I grabbed my things. “Are we in the glade?”

 

“Hai. We are just in a different part of the glade. See ahead.” I pointed to the other opening in front of us. “Can you see the water falling at its entrance?”

 

“Hai.”

 

“That's the waterfall that feeds the river and the hot springs. You see, we are inside the mountain from where the water falls. Come.”

 

~~~~~~~~~

 

We made it just in time to see the last of the villagers hurrying up to their huts. As we walked up the river that ends up surrounding the palace, I debated how to ensue the issue of tomorrow's festivities. It was imminent that he leave. The future guardian of the Shikon no Tama would have to be someone of great spiritual powers to have my otou-san picked her for its safety. And because of her great powers, she would be able to see him.

 

Some feet away from the palace back entrance, I motioned for Sesshoumaru to stop. He looked around sensing for any intruders. Finding none, he asked me, “Is there something on your mind?”

 

I closed my eyes and exhaled sharply. “You can't be here for the next week, at least.”

 

“I'm not leaving,” he stated simply.

 

I ran a hand through my face in exasperation. “Listen to me carefully. It's not that I don't want you here. After what we've shared these past three weeks, there is no one I want by my side more than you. But you must understand that there will be many miko here, who have great power. If they sense you... if they see you...I just don't want anything to happen to you.”

 

“Nothing will happen. They will not be able to detect my youki. I'll just mask it.”

 

“Even if you are able to hide your demonic aura, they will be able to tell the difference. Your physical appearance is enough to raise suspicions.”

 

“I'll find a way.” His answers were cut and gruff.

 

“DAMMIT SESSHOUMARU! Why the hell are you doing this? What is so goddamn important that you have to be there?” I yelled at him.

 

In one swift move he had me backed up in a tree, each of his arms on opposite side of my head. He leaned in close as he spoke. “Once he,” - and he made quite an emphasis on the word he, - “gives that jewel away, he will give you away too. After all, aren't you going to be the next sweet little empress?! I will NOT let that happen.” His last two statements were said with so much venom.

 

I pushed him off, effortlessly. “Whether or not I marry, it is not your decision! What I do with the time given to me is up to me and me alone!” And here I thought we had made progress.

 

“YOU WILL NOT BE IN ATTENDANCE WITHOUT ME!” He bellowed.

 

“Oh, yes I will! And just maybe I'll have a damn good time while I'm at it. Maybe I'll dance the entire time. Maybe I'll meet a man and decide to take him to my bed,” I said, peevishly, annoyed with his misguided chivalry, more annoyed that he might be taking advantage of the situation to subdue me like all the other women in his life.

 

His frown deepened. “You're beginning to annoy me, wench. I will go... for now. But I will be in attendance tomorrow.”

 

“I'm sorry I'm not docile and obedient! What a shame for you! Do they always say, `Yes, Sesshoumaru, whatever you want, Sesshoumaru, how far should I spread them, Sesshoumaru?!' ”

 

He leaned in closer so I could see perfectly the maroon stripes adorning his cheeks. “Dance all night,” he growled, his shoulder length, silver hair framing the grim features of his face. “Do whatever you damned well please, but be warned...when I arrive at the celebration, I'll find you and drag you from whatever man or,”- he wrinkled his nose - “whatever bed you're in.”

 

“That depends, I suspect, on the man with me,” I murmured, meeting his gaze with unflinching acrimony.

 

“You don't understand,” he whispered, his fury barely restrained. “I'll take you away guaranteed.”

 

“I may not be here.” Cool as ice I stared down at him.

 

“Just make sure you stay.” Abruptly straightening, he jabbed his finger at me. “That's an order.”

 

“Go to hell.”

 

“That's my plan. Now be a good girl,” he murmured, silkily, “and behave yourself while I'm away.”

 

An instant later he was gone and I was left trembling with rage. How dare he order me about as though I were another submissive female subject to his whims! Not likely that! Not in a million years! Not in ten million! But regardless of my mutinous, hot-blooded temper, I was already feeling a sense of loss, as though he'd become an addiction in my blood and I was suddenly deprived. His courting mark had begun to lose its power, though.

 

Softly swearing, I reminded myself that I was a rational woman and men like Sesshoumaru - too familiar with acquiescent women - were best forgotten. Furthermore, I had no intention of allowing myself to be added to his list of readily available, compliant females. A fierce wave of longing suddenly overwhelmed me as though in willful contradiction and I fought down the urgent desire flaring through my body.

 

Resentful of his virtuoso skills or perhaps resentful of the other women on whom he'd bestowed them, my expression became sullen as I entered my father's study.

 

~~~~~~~~~~

 

It was almost morning when he arrived at the Kuroi Hoshi. Ujio was sparing with Juro near the east wall. The instant they saw him (for they had sensed him for quite some minutes ago), they stopped and approached him. Both inu youkai were displaying cuts and bruises from their last `friendly encounter'.

 

Juro was the first to open up the conversation. “How is Kagome-chan?”

 

Sesshoumaru eyed him suspiciously. He knew that he should not worry about Juro's concern for Kagome's well being, but dog demons were especially protective of their mates. Or in this case, their prospective mates. After all, Juro had been the first of the three to open up to the miko. She had felt more at ease with him and the familiarity with which she had allowed him to address her was proof enough. He cleared his throat and tossed his uncertainties aside.

 

“She is fine.”

 

Their brother's clipped answer sent up red flags in their heads. They were well aware of each and every single event for the past twenty days. According to Sesshoumaru, he and the miko had been on more polite terms. But that did not mean that small arguments were not often in show. These, however, had not been of serious nature, for they were able to work around them. Now, though, it seemed that both of them finally exploded.

 

Hiding as much as possible his grin, Ujio asked, “What happened? And what did you do?”

 

“Nothing happened.” Sesshoumaru pursed his lips and sent him an angry stare. “And why, pray tell, do you assume it was my fault?”

 

“AHA! So something did happen?” The demon prince let out a groan.

 

“We just...”

 

“You didn't hurt her did you?” Juro had always been the most thoughtful, but strong and defiant when needed.

 

“Of course not!” It was absurd that they would think he was capable of laying a claw on her.

 

Ujio put an arm around Sesshoumaru and the other around Ujio. “Come, we'll talk inside.”

 

In the privacy of Sesshoumaru's quarters, he finally told them of the recent argument with the miko. They remained quiet for some time. Each one of them was trying to find a solution that would have the inu youkai inside the ningen palace without anyone knowing who he really was.

 

Easier said than done, of course.

 

“How about Lita?” Juro offered.

 

Ujio tried to dismiss the idea. “What about Lita?”

 

“No, listen to him,” Sesshoumaru said as he motioned for Juro to continue.

 

“Well, she is a healer and from what I've heard from chichi-ue, she is also very well schooled in spells and incantations. Perhaps she could conjure a way to help you.”

 

All three demons exchanged grins and raced out towards the Crescent Moon.

 

~~~~~~~~~~

 

He was having lunch when his son's scent reached his nose. He kept his eyes focused on the door as he cut his meat and drank his sake. He even felt Sesshoumaru hesitate outside the shoji before sliding it and sitting next to him.

 

“Where have you been?” The demon lord didn't need to ask. He could smell her all over him, but he wanted to give Sesshoumaru the opportunity to at least be honest.

 

Sesshoumaru lifted his chin. “Chichi-ue, you know that I have been with her.”

 

The Daiyoukai waited until he finished his meal and for his servant to remove the utensils, leaving them both in complete seclusion. He eyed his son with such anger, that he saw his pup shift uncomfortably in his seat.

 

“I thought we had an agreement,” each word coming out in a strain.

 

“She and I have come to an understanding. You can even say we are good friends now. So, as you can see, there is nothing wrong with that. I would think you would be happy with that.”

 

“I am content that there is peace between you two. However, that does not mean you can be around her all the time.”

 

His anger flaring, he almost yelled, “And why not?!”

 

Keeping his cool, he said, “Because she is a miko and you are youkai. Both of our species were not meant to have an existent friendship. It is unnatural.”

 

“And yet you have fought by each other's side!”

 

“That is different. We fought for common goals, but we did not fight for each other!” The Inu no Taishou's voice had risen a notch, but he quickly composed himself.

 

“YOU TOLD ME THAT YOU DID NOT WANT ME TO PURSUE HER AS A POTENTIAL MATE, WHICH I RELUCTANTLY AGREED TO. I HAVE KEPT MY END. ALL I HAVE DONE IS KEPT THE ALLIANCES BETWEEN US. HOW IS THAT WRONG? WHY DOES THE THOUGHT OF HER WITH ME SEEM SO WRONG WITH YOU?” He looked into his father's eyes trying to find something that would answer his many other questions.

 

The demon lord was not going to have another argument with his son about this. Instead he opted to let his son in on a few of his reasons why he wouldn't allow such union - for the time being. “She is not for you.”

 

Sesshoumaru rolled his eyes and was about to leave when his father's hand stopped him from standing. He stared at the clawed hand on his shoulder and then gazed at the serious and concerned look on his father's face.

 

“Father,” the pleading in his eyes bothered the Daiyoukai deeply, “why?”

 

“All I can tell you for now is that she was entrusted to my care. She is someone very special. Not because of what she is, but because of who she really is. And forgive me for this, but she is destined for someone else.”

 

“Who told you this?” The Inu no Taishou was almost positive he heard fear in his son's voice.

 

“Someone I trust completely,” was his simple reply.

 

The young prince stared at the table in front of him, trying to swallow the information his father just bestowed upon him. It couldn't possibly be true! If it was, then why did he feel all these things for her? And he was more than sure, even though she had not voiced it, that she felt the same way. Who could possibly love her like he did? There was no one alive who could feel the way he did for this wonderful female.

 

Trying to exude the calmness he didn't feel, he asked, “Who is she supposed to be with, then?”

 

“I don't know.”

 

This time he just couldn't stop the loud words that escaped his lips as he jumped from his sitting position. “Then how the hell do you know it's not me?!”

 

“I just do.” Damn he hated the tranquility with which his father spoke!

 

He bowed to his father. “Then, do not worry yourself, chichi-ue. I still believe Lady Michiru would be the best choice for mate. What I have with the miko is completely different. There is no point in lying to you about my whereabouts, so, if you will excuse me, I will go and talk to her.”

 

The Inu no Taishou didn't even try to stop him. He knew Sesshoumaru like the back of his hand. There was no way in hell or heaven that he would dissuade him. Even as a pup, Sesshoumaru had been an extremely stubborn youkai and had always acquired what he wanted at all costs. The Daiyoukai feared, however, that this might not only cost Sesshoumaru, but also Kagome.

 

Perhaps it might be time that he approached the miko. She was as stubborn as Sesshoumaru, but surely she could understand the consequences of such friendship. Yes, perhaps that would be a better idea. He would visit her after the rumored celebration in her palace was over. For now, he needed answers. And he knew exactly where to go for them.

 

~~~~~~~~~

 

The lord demon entered the familiar cave. He had sent the usual signal and his `companion' would be arriving soon. He laid his head on the wall of the cave. A weary sigh escaped his perfect thin lips. He wondered how much longer he would have to carry the burden of this. If he'd known then what the miko was entrusting him with and the great responsibility it ensued, he would have turned her down immediately. But he'd never cowered from anything and this was certainly not going to be the first time.

 

His mind suddenly thought of his son. Sesshoumaru. Who would have thought that the pup would end up falling in love with Kagome. The hand that had been flat against the cold wall of the `meeting place' was now fisted. How could things have gotten to this point? But no one could have foretold this, he tried to tell himself.

 

Still, the truth of the matter was that it did. Sesshoumaru was way in over his head. He was fighting a losing battle and if he didn't do anything to stop it, he would bring the apocalypse sooner that thought. Keiji had been too engrossed in keeping guard over his ward that he'd completely ignored his sons, especially Sesshoumaru. He'd been too involved in the life of the Shikon miko that his own family fell apart and he didn't even take notice of it.

 

“Kuso!” he yelled. He punched the floor and the cave shook. A few of the debris fell on his well-kept hair.

 

“If you're done whimpering, I'd like to get back to my ward before she notices I'm gone,” came the voice of his usual `companion'.

 

Lord Keiji didn't even bother looking up. He had learned to expect such sarcastic and spiteful remarks from the youkai in front of him. “When will this end?”

 

It made a sound close to tired sigh. All the hostility and tension left the atmosphere that had surrounded it. “In time. Not all the main characters of this story are born yet. Trials are still ahead. But you knew this when you agreed to be a part of it.” It paused before adding, “And there has been an unexpected turn of events.”

 

“What are you talking about?” he asked confused.

 

“Someone has altered the outcome.”

 

“Do you know who?”

 

“No. But this interception has changed things and now I have no idea what will happen.” It growled.

 

Great, he thought. “Maybe this was something I shouldn't have agreed to.” he said tiredly, looking at its red eyes.

 

“Maybe. But the pieces are in place and moving. We can't complain. We are just Guardians. They are the ones that have sacrificed again and again. This time around, when They meet, the ultimate battle will ensue and we can all rest in peace.”

 

“It's not Sesshoumaru she's destined for, is she?”

 

His `companion' only looked at him before answering. “You know well that even I don't have all the answers. If he is, then he will be.”

 

“Then that is a `no'.”

 

“That is most definitely a `no,'” it assured.

 

The Inu no Taishou straightened himself and walked past the youkai. “I'll continue with my part. But I'm not completely in control of my son's actions. I can only do so much.” And with that said, he disappeared into the night sky.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Sesshoumaru exited his father's home and walked up to his two brothers.

 

“He told you the same thing, didn't he?” Ujio was as concerned as the Inu no Taishou about the relationship of his brother and the miko princess. But there were reasons that he dared not tell his brother. Reasons that he wanted to get rid of.

 

“Hai, but I'll deal with that later. Did you find Lita?”

 

Juro was about to respond, when a voice from behind the demon prince was heard. “What is your business with me, my young lord?”

 

He turned and watched her separating her herbs under a tree. The three brothers approached her. “Lady Lita, I require your services for a certain... er... job.”

 

She lifted her gaze to him. A smirk crossed her wrinkled face. “This is about the miko, the Cursed One's daughter, is it not?”

 

If Sesshoumaru, Ujio or Juro were surprised, they did not let her see it. “Hai,” they all said in unison.

 

“However, we do hope for your discretion, especially around otou-san,” Ujio added.

 

She threw back her head in a somewhat loud laughter that had the trio looking at her strangely. “Of course you do.” She stood rather quickly for someone of her years. “Follow me. I have exactly what you're looking for.”

 

~~~~~~~~~~~