InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Falling Away ❯ Lessons in Love ( Chapter 38 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

By: Lynx212

I nodded at the young man in front me and for the first time I truly took in his form. As far as appearances go, he was not�unattractive. Since coming to stay at the palace, he had grown his hair out and for whatever reason he had it unbound at the time. I note that he also has an unusual hue to his eyes for a human; his eyes are almost the same shade as Koi�s on the moonless night. How odd�

He squirms under my scrutiny but I continue. Not to be cruel but in the recesses of my mind something is there. Some fragment of knowledge just beyond my reach. Unable to grasp it I said, �Thank you for what you have done this evening. I have learned many things this night alone.�

Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Action | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 12.19.2008 | Pages: 13 | Words: 16.4K | Visits: 1.3K | Status: Work In Progress

First of all I would like to thank my ridiculously awesome beta Shigure-san once again. The next thing is me apologizing for not getting around to replying to all of the wonderful, insightful, and muse feeding reviews you guys left for last chapter. (Real life has been a bit hectic so hang in there I have not forgotten you.)

A/N: Now it would seem that the last few chapters got a lot of you worked up for different reasons (no matter if you were happy or discontent I felt honored my writing could inspire such passion in those who read it…thank you ^_^). With that said, I would like to explain a couple of things that has some of you wondering.

1. Never fear this will remain a Sess/Inu fic. I did not mean to scare any of you amidst all of the drama I was creating.

2. The main reason Tibade and a few others are so pissed with Sesshoumaru has nothing to do with Sesshoumaru being flat out wrong for feeling the way he does, but it has everything to do with how he handled the situation. Take the following for example, you and your lover are on the way to a friend's wedding. You get into an argument and things between you are tense…during the reception is not the time nor would it be the place to handle that situation.

That is kind of what we have here…it was announced earlier that a feast was to be thrown in honor of Inuyasha finally “coming of age” unfortunately (life has a way of sucking at times) this whole issues over Inu not being able to respond to the question Sesshoumaru asked happened mere hours before said feast. It would have been better if Sesshoumaru could have held his tongue and attitude until they were alone. I intentionally wrote it so Sesshoumaru's anger and jealousy got the better of him and he reacted badly…basically he was hurt and sometimes misery loves (or wants) company.

I am sorry if the way it was written made it seem as though everyone was taking Inuyasha's side…that is not the case, Tibade will indeed have words with him. Maybe I will go back and reword a few things to clarify this. Feel free to leave any suggestions on how to make that more clear.

ANYWHO…this A/N has gone on long enough so without further ado… on with the fic.

Chapter 38 Lessons in Love

(Tibade's POV)

It was usually beyond me to interfere with certain things especially things of this nature; but as I stood there watching Pup as he sat on the floor of his sleeping chambers withdrawing further into himself I was done holding my tongue. The entire situation had gotten so damn far out of hand it was ridiculous. If his actions kept regressing at that rate, I wouldn't have been surprised if I had come back to his chambers and found him hugging his knees to his chest rocking back and forth. I could feel my features contort in displeasure as I prepared to tell My Lord exactly what I thought of the situation as well as what he was going to do to fix it. “Get up Pup.”

He continued to sit there staring off into space.

“Get off your spoiled royal ass and get off of it NOW!”

His head snapped up and he had the audacity to look like he was about to put me in my place; but the moment those indignant golden eyes met my furious and fed up green ones he backed down. “Now that I have your attention you are going to listen and you are going to listen well.”

His eyes softened and he looked up at me through silver lashes.

“You are going to get up and you are going to find Inuyasha. Then, whether you like it or not you are going to eat as much crow as you have to in order to fix this. You will beg if necessary.”

“This Sesshoumaru does not…”

“Drop the royalty bullshit Pup. This is not some pissed off dignitary you're dealing with. This is Inuyasha, your soon-to-be mate. You were not only wrong but you were unjustly rude and nasty with him over dinner.”

He slowly rose to his feet and stood before me glaring at me like a petulant child. A low growl was emanating from the back of his throat and in response; I simply shook my head and sighed.

“You act as if nothing has transpired for me to be upset over Tibade.”

“I understand you are upset and why. I was there remember?”

“Well apparently you need the situation explained to you in more detail then,” He said with the same condescending tenor he normally used when dealing with Jaken when the imp steps out of line.

“You may be My Lord, but you need to mind your tone Pup. I am not the cause of your problems so do not get snippy with me. This attitude of yours is a big part of the reason why things are such a mess right now.”

“You have no idea what this is doing to my mind and I loathe it.”

“Welcome to a world that doesn't bend to your every whim, Pup. Welcome to the world of adulthood and relationships.”

“I am in no mood for jokes Tibade.”

“I am not joking. This is what it is like to grow up and take on some of the emotional responsibilities of another individual. Keep in mind that Inuyasha is an individual and not an extension of you.”

“I know this.” He barked at me.

“Well for someone who has this knowledge you certainly don't act like it. You want him to behave how you want him to behave and respond how you want him to, regardless of how he feels and what the truth of the matter might be.”

He turned his back to me yet again and I watched, as he seemed to be fighting with himself. He started to pace about and when he decided to turn and face me again he looked to be either on the verge of tears or a killing rampage, emotion on Pups face was so rare it was hard to tell. His hand kept returning to the mark on his arm and I could tell he was fighting not to show how much pain he was in. Eventually his hands clenched so hard by his sides' blood started dripping onto the rug he was standing on. Whatever was going on in his mind was really tearing him up.

“He couldn't answer me,” he whispered, “When I asked him if I was the only one he loved…he couldn't answer me.”

“You shocked the hell out of all of us with that question Pup, give him some time.”

“You know as well as I do if I was the only one he wouldn't have needed time to answer. Inuyasha is brash and straight forward and when he gets upset he speaks his mind.”

I could have argued with that, but it was not the time.

“I felt it Tibade. I felt his uncertainty and his mix of emotions. He holds serious feelings for that Monk and I don't like it.”

“I understand, but treating him the way you did is not the way to get the results you desire.”

“I know that,” he began before his head dropped off to the side and he began watching the blood from his hands slowly drop onto the rug below him, “…he was supposed to say yes. He was supposed to say I was the only one...”

If I had ever had any doubt about how Pup felt toward Inuyasha that would have cleared it up. It was clear that the bond and the feelings that had developed between the two ran deep, regardless of how new their relationship was. That line of thought brought up a question I had never really asked myself, or them for that matter, and that question was exactly how long had they really been connected. I knew it was probably a horrible time to do so but it was something I felt I needed to know in order to help them.

“Pup I need to ask you something and I need you to really think about what I'm asking you and what the answer is.”

He nodded but his hands remained clenched at his sides. At that moment, I prayed for Hikari to hurry with that potion I had sent word for her to mix up. If he didn't relax soon I feared he might actually do damage to himself. I cleared my throat and said, “I need you to think back, I know as a demon your memory is nearly flawless. I need you to tell me when was the first time you recall behaving differently toward Inuyasha.”

“Exactly what do you mean Tibade?” he asked lowly.

“When was the first time you had an emotional reaction to something he has done or was going through.”

His eyes grew distant for a moment and he replied, “When that damn Miko of his had shunned him and the mixed blood flowing through his veins.”

“Can you tell me what happened?”

His eyes flared to life and I stood there as he told me about Inuyasha's heartbreak at the Miko's hand as well as how he found him in the forest that night and stayed with him. I listened to him and was taken aback, as he grew angry while telling me of how he had threatened the girl and defended Inuyasha's honor. He appeared ready to rip the Miko to shreds all over again. This is when the possibility of their bond being much stronger and considerably older than any of us thought crossed my mind.

I wondered, was it possible that it all really began while they were traveling to destroy Naraku? At the very least, it is possible that that is when it started for Pup. Perhaps this is what truly fueled his rather hasty decision to have his brother return to the West. That was closing in on being a year ago.

I really wished Inuyasha were present so I could ask him the same question. I had a feeling the answer was going to be damn near the same. I knew the Little One was the first one to make a move towards anything physical and it came as a shock to both parties causing confusion on both sides for quite a while.

Pup has never been one to volunteer personal information so I felt I needed to dig in order to figure out everything that was going on between them. This would be easier if… a knock sounded at the door interrupting my thoughts.

I left Pup to answer the door and was relieved to find Hikari standing there holding exactly what I was wishing for to ease the situation along. What she had with her was an extremely strong mix of what I gave the little one the night he began going through the change of power. I knew there was little to nothing I could give a demon as strong as pup to knock him out but maybe this would get his claws out of the palms of his hands and help him think a bit more clearly.

“How is he?” she asked and I waved her in and I replied, “Not good.”

“I feared as much considering what you asked me to mix up. That entire episode over dinner had me worried. I have never seen the eldest lord behave in such a manner, especially towards Inuyasha.”

“Me either but he is experiencing something for the first time right now and it has him in emotional knots.”

*-*-*-*-*

(Sesshoumaru's POV)

I could hear Tibade and Hikari talking in the foyer of my chambers and I really couldn't bring myself to care. They were discussing me as well as my actions at dinner and every word they said was true. I had overreacted and I was to blame for most of this madness. Despite knowing this, I just couldn't seem to get myself together enough to do anything to remedy the situation.

I had never experienced feeling that possessive over anyone in my life. I wanted no one and I meant no one to be as close to Inuyasha as I was. In a sense, I guess I wanted him all to myself and the Monk was an obvious threat to that desire. I was so angry with him I could have ripped him to pieces and it took a lot of willpower not to act on that thought. Thoughts like this mingled with thoughts of how in a sense I really was in debt to the Monk I loathed so much at that moment. If it weren't for him, Inuyasha would have perished.

Those two thoughts were in direct contradiction with each other and I did not know what to do with it all. I paced around the room and my eyes kept traveling to the night sky and more than anything I wanted to leave and find Inuyasha but I didn't want to face his possible rejection. Was I actually scared of something in that moment? I suppose I was. That thought alone was enough to make me feel uncomfortable in my own skin.

Tibade soon came in and asked me to drink whatever it was that he had Hikari bring to him. I did not particularly care for his potions and remedies but at the time, I decided not to argue. I took the drink and downed it in one gulp. It wasn't the best tasting concoction of Tibade's but it was far from the worst.

Tibade babbled on about this, that, and what I should be doing and at first for the life of me I couldn't make myself focus on what he was saying. I will admit that after drinking, whatever it was that Hikari had made, I slowly began to feel mental clarity return to me. Perhaps, I had let myself get overwhelmed.

I turned to face Tibade again. He gave me a soft smile and asked, “Feeling better I take it?”

“Yes.”

“Good now maybe we can get somewhere with this mess you've made.” I glared at him and he said, “Yes much better indeed.”

“I will fix this Tibade. I am well aware of how badly I have erred this evening.”

“So what's your plan,” he asked.

“Plan?”

“Well you basically told Miroku that he could do whatever and you were not going to leave this palace. I am sure since you haven't found him yet the Little One has figured out or at least assumed you are still pissed at him. You can't just rush in to this situation with no plan.”

He had a point. I had made a mess of things and I couldn't very well expect my mere presence to fix it all.

“I can make you do nothing Pup, but I will tell you what I know and see, then you can make your decisions from there.”

I agreed with him and listened intently as he told me of things he had observed from us all. He seemed to be working his way toward something so a asked him to hurry and get on with it.

“I know you won't like hearing this but has it ever once crossed your mind that Miroku has felt the way you do right now for Months? Maybe even longer.”

He was right, I didn't like the sound of that at all but I listened regardless.

“I know this is doing nothing for your current dislike of the Monk, but let's face it, none of us can really deny how much he cares for Inuyasha. He was able to create and maintain a bond with him for over a day and he risked his own personal safety and your wrath for Inuyasha's well being only to end up staring death in the face.”

How true that was. I finished listening to Tibade and made a plan.

*-*-*-*-*

(Miroku's POV)

As Kilala flew us through the night sky toward the closest mountain range we could see, I began talking to the neko about what was going on. I really wish she could have responded with more than growls and purrs but I was grateful for her listening ear all the same. By the time, I got to the part about confronting Lord Sesshoumaru the last of my anger had faded and I fell forward onto the shoulders of my feline friend, letting out all of the emotions I'd been holding in since I accidentally walked in on the conversation in Tibade's chambers.

I cried tears of anger, hurt and most of all frustration. I hated crying but really what else could I have done at the moment? This sucked and I held little hope of it getting better any time soon. Then as if things weren't complicated enough, Kouga goes and adds to the mix. My insides were still humming from that kiss. I really didn't know how to feel about it and I didn't have the presence of mind to think it through at that point in time, so I just pushed it aside to be dealt with later.

I tried reaching out to Inuyasha again and when I was met with silence, the tears began to flow in earnest. I was upset in so many different ways over so many things I could barely tell which end was up.

--Don't cry- -

I thanked Kami that he was still conscious and in control.

--…you…you're okay. I was worried.--

--I could tell. I am so damn sorry about all of this Miroku. --

--It will be fine Yash. Can you give us some sort of clue as to where you are exactly? Right now, we're just flying toward the closet mountain. --

--Us? Is Ru with you?--

--No…just me, I'm on Kilala.--

--Oh.--

The disappointment was obvious.

--Sorry--

--No need to be and what do you mean just you. You said that as if you don't mean anything to me.--

--I know it's just that…I feel as if I've ruined the happiness you've been searching for.--

--You didn't ruin anything this…ahh…is not your fault.--

--What's wrong? Are you injured?--

--Nothing horrendous but my leg hurts like a bitch.--

--I think if we get close enough to the mountain Kilala will be able to sniff you out. How are things going with your inner demon?”--

--It's being an ass but I think I have calmed down to the point where he won't be running the show.--

--That's a relief.--

--Ain't it though. By the way, tell Kilala I said thanks. I know she usually likes to go on the prowl this time of night. Which I'm sure is much more fun for her than searching for emotionally warped half demons.--

--Will do and… uh oh--

--What?--

--Something or someone extremely powerful is headed my way.--

--Great! Just what we need.--

--I don't know their energy feels kind of familiar--

--And I know why. It's Ru.--

--Are you sure?--

--Yes. Not a doubt in my mind.--

Mere moments later, the youkai lord was hovering in front of me. I felt Kilala tense up at his sudden appearance so I petted the neko to reassure her. The look on the Dai Youkai's face was still somewhat angry but the coldness was gone from his eyes and I would have dared to say the look he was giving me was a questioning one. I wondered why he stopped to see me instead of racing headlong to find Inuyasha. I wanted to say something to him but thought better of it. I figured he had a reason for his actions so until he spoke I would hold my tongue.

“You actions earlier this evening were bold human.”

His choice of words sat ill with me and I knew my face was showing it. I cared not. I had, had all I could take for one evening.

“Miroku,” I said firmly, tired of him refusing to refer to me by my given name as if I was no more than some stranger he met in a village he was passing through. I knew that he was well aware of what my name was and it was beyond old with me at that point that he refused to address me by that name as he did everyone else.

His eyes narrowed at me for a moment before they relaxed and he said, “I did not come here to argue with you…Miroku.”

Well that quick of a turnaround was quite unexpected. I nodded and replied, “Very well then,” as I did my best to relax my own features. I figured the least I could do was meet him half way.

“I was wrong in my actions this evening and if you would allow it I would like to accompany you to find Inuyasha.”

That came as a complete and total shock and I could feel it showing on my face. My eyes felt as if they were on the verge of popping out of their sockets. Once the initial surprise wore off a very valid question came to mind so I asked it, “Why are you asking me this? You know I couldn't stop you even if I wanted to.”

“I ask, because you would have had no need to do this if it were not for me. I ask, because if I had taken responsibility for my own actions you could be in your chambers sleeping along with the rest of the palace. I ask, because I need to know if he even wants to see me after my behavior this evening. But above all else, I ask because I have come to realize you love him as much as I do.”

There went my eyes again. What the hell was I suppose to say to that? I had no clue so I sat there just staring at him.

--Well that could easily be the deemed the shocker of the century.--

--How did you know what he said?--

--You're playing it over and over in your mind.--

--Oh.--

--Well if you two are done, I would like to get my wounded ass off this mountainside sometime before dawn.--

I couldn't help but chuckle at how Inuyasha phrased that. When I pulled myself together, I looked up at a set of golden eyes so like Inuyasha's but so different. He looked pissed and it occurred to me that he must have thought I was laughing at what he had said.

“My apologies, Lord Sesshoumaru, I was laughing at Inuyasha rushing us to come get him.”

“You can really hear him that clearly and effortlessly?”

“Yes, his thoughts are as clear as my own when I allow it.”

“How is he?”

“He was struggling to keep his inner demon under control but that seems to be okay now. He hurt his leg in the fall…”

“He fell? From where and how?”

“Uh, believe it or not he flew all of the way out here.”

It was now the Demon Lord's turn to look shocked.

“When he began to struggle with his inner demon his concentration faltered and he ended up crashing on that mountainside over there.”

“How bad is he hurt?” he asked as a cloud began to form underneath him. I guess Kilala and I were riding along with him. He motioned for me to get on, looked down at Kilala and said, “Unless you just want to come along Neko you can return to the palace. You assistance this evening is greatly appreciated.”

Kilala looked at him skeptically and he said, “No harm will come to him, I promise you this. He is safe in my presence.”

At this, she nodded and landed on the cloud so I could safely step off. I appreciated this, I was certain I wouldn't fair as well as Inuyasha had falling from this height. Once I was off, she nuzzled my leg and looked at me one more time as if to ask, are you sure. I nodded and she flew off in the direction of the palace.

The nervousness set in once she was out of sight and I found myself feeling more than a little uncomfortable being alone with the youkai lord. I didn't have much time to feel this way because he said, “Hold on to me. We are leaving.”

Hesitantly I stepped closer to the imposing figure in front of me and immediately I faced the dilemma of what to hold on to. He must have known this because he extended his arm and no sooner than I had a firm grip on it did an odd sensation wash over me. It almost felt like it was washing over me from within. Lord Sesshoumaru must have felt it as well but he did no more than narrow those intense amber eyes at me before we sped off at a pace that took my breath away.

When I opened my eyes, we were standing on the mountainside looking at Inuyasha.

“It's about time. I thought I was going to grow roots before you guys got here.”

Lord Sesshoumaru arched an eyebrow at him and I laughed. Leave it to Yash to break the tension with humor. Lord Sesshoumaru takes a tentative step in Yash's direction and starts to speak but is stopped when Inuyasha says, “Look guys I know we need to talk and all that jazz but can we put it off until after I get the horribly vile tasting but beautifully numbing concoction from Tibade? My leg hurts like a bitch.”

I smiled and nodded and when I looked up, I was surprised to find the Youkai Lord doing the same. He was staring at Inuyasha intently and it wasn't until Yash began to rise off the ground did I realize what he was doing. Once he had floated him over next to us the cloud under Yash grew a bit in size and he turned to me and said, “Sit.” I hesitated but once that notorious eyebrow arched up I climbed onto the cloud and did as I was told.

We took flight at a good speed, but nothing like the speed we were moving at when getting to Inuyasha. I guess he didn't want to risk hurting him further.

--This awkward enough for ya Miroku?--

--Yes it is, thank you very much for asking.--

--Never a dull moment right?--

--True, true.--

“You two do realize it is rude to whisper?”

I felt my face redden as I realized the Youkai Lord had somehow figured out we were talking to each other through the bond.

“Feeling left out?” Yash asked aloud and to my surprise, the Demon Lord answered, “Yes.”

“Well then say so! I'm not a mind reader ya know!” Inuyasha said loudly from his prone position.

“You do realize the irony within that declaration considering the situation between you and Miroku?” was Lord Sesshoumaru's response.

I wondered if I was I imagining things or had the Youkai Lord actually made a joke. Despite my better judgment, I tipped to the side and started laughing my ass off. When I took a look over at Inuyasha's face I started laughing even harder. He looked fit to be tied and Lord Sesshoumaru actually appeared rather pleased with himself as he stood there with a look of smugness on his face.

--He's really not as much of a tight ass as he likes other's to think he is.--

--Really?--

--Yeah seriously, it's just appearances and shit.--

“You're doing it again. I will send the two of you to your respective rooms if necessary.”

“You know what I'd like to know? I'd like to know how the hell you know when we're talking.” Inuyasha asked gruffly.

He turned to look at both of us and with a solemn yet very serious expression he then directs his gaze to Inuyasha and says, “Something within you sings when you use the link you two share.”

A sad and thoughtful look crosses Inuyasha's face. He reaches out for his Ru and begins to stutter words of…of something he couldn't define. He's not sorry for what he shares with me but he is sorry for what pain that bond has caused for Lord Sesshoumaru. Part of me wants to cry for him because he is too proud to do so. Lord Sesshoumaru leans over and caresses his face and says, “It is truly okay Koibito, we will work it out. What is important to you is to me as well.”

--God's this is killing me Miroku. He feels so resigned so…so not him and I don't know what to do. I don't know what to do and…and…--

If someone could hyperventilate mentally that is what I would have called what Yash was doing. I look up at Sesshoumaru and when he looks back at me, I could see the question in his eyes. Those usually expressionless eyes asked me, what do I need to do? I didn't have a sure fire answer but I faked it really well. I gave him a pleading look that I prayed said, comfort him, he's freaking out and he needs you to say it's okay. He needs you to make him feel it's all going to be alright. I then literally prayed to every God I knew of that Lord Sesshoumaru was good at interpreting looks.

Apparently, he was because he leaned down toward Inuyasha and he gently stroked his face and said, “I am serious when I say that everything will be fine. We…all of us will do whatever is necessary to work through this. I cannot tell you how sorry I am that I behaved the way I did earlier. Again I find myself saying that I do not deserve your forgiveness but I am asking for it despite that fact.”

“You are not the only one that has shit to apologize for Ru. I owe you and Miroku a bigger apology than words can express right now.”

I looked at the two of them and smiled, for demons, they sure were easy on the eyes and they made quite the picture together. At that thought, I started and rolled my eyes at myself. Two minutes of peace and leave it to me to get all hentai; but who wouldn't at the sight of all of that hard muscle framed in silver and highlighted with gold.

--You are a piece of work you know that?--
--Huh?--
--Don't play innocent with me hentai.--

I felt my face flush once I realized that he had heard my thoughts amongst his own. It is so easy to forget (or simply not care) about the bond we share. He was all but leering at me and this had Lord Sesshoumaru subtly looking back and forth between us. I decided that I would turn to look out at the night sky. When I did that, Yash let out a chuckle.

“Is he okay Koi?”
“Yeah he's fine.”
“He does not appear to be. What is the issue?”
“Nothing really he just…well let's just say he's decided that we look rather nice together.” Yash answered before he chuckled again. There was silence from the Youkai Lord for a few moments before a soft ah, I see, passed his lips. I could feel my face heat up in embarrassment.

--Dammit Yash! You didn't have to share that you know.--
--How could I not? You were all but drooling sitting there watching the two of us.--
--I WAS NOT!--
--Oh lighten up I'm just giving ya a hard time; but deny it all you want you were at the very least really admiring the view.--

Oh, if my face was not red before it had to have been absolutely crimson after that. Inuyasha smirked at me and as I turned my head back to the scenery, I could have sworn that Lord Sesshoumaru was doing the same. Fine. Everyone have a good laugh at my expense. Anything would have been better than all of that blasted anger, jealousy and tension.

*-*-*-*-*

When the palace was within sight Lord Sesshoumaru let out this odd sound that seemed to originate from the back of his throat. He floated the three of us directly to the balcony of Tibade's quarters. As I glanced around, I noticed the healer looked more than prepared for our arrival. I supposed that was what that odd sound was all about. The healer motioned for Sesshoumaru to put Inuyasha on his examining table. I hopped off our misty transport and when I did, he floated Inuyasha over to the table and set the wounded half-demon down.

Tibade smiled at his youngest Lord and said, “Now let's see what kind of damage you've managed to do to yourself this time.”

A disgruntled reply of, “Can it Tibade,” was heard from the examining table. The healer didn't look phased in the slightest.

His smile broadened as he turned to Sesshoumaru and I and said, “if you the two of you could be so kind as to excuse yourselves, I have work to do.”

Neither one of us argued with that request. I smiled at my annoyed friend as Lord Sesshoumaru made his way to him and ran an elegant clawed finger over the mark on Yash's neck a few times. His once erratic thoughts grow calm and his mood seems to lift. His eyes drift shut for a moment and when they reopen, the look he gives Lord Sesshoumaru is full of so much gratitude the stoic Lord cannot help but smile before he leans down and kisses Inuyasha's forehead.

Sesshoumaru turns gracefully from his mate-to-be and strides in my direction towards the door. As we move to exit, the healer says he will inform us of Inuyasha's condition shortly.

When we step out into the hall some of the previous tension returns, and I find myself becoming increasingly uncomfortable in the youkai Lords presence. As we approach the point where we would part, he calls my name…my actual name. I am shocked…twice in one night.

“Yes, lord Sesshoumaru.”
“Please follow me, and I believe at this point you can do away with the `Lord'. If you heard Koibito's thoughts earlier this day we are indeed too…acquainted for such formalities.”

I could feel the heat rising in my face.

“I trust you have hindered your connection to him since leaving Tibade's quarters.”
“Yes,” I replied.

He nodded almost imperceptibly and I continued to trail behind him. He surprised me when he turned down the service corridor behind the west wing. He stepped into an unoccupied room and apprehensively I followed.

“Calm yourself. I merely wish to speak with you.”
“Is it that obvious?”
“Yes, the feel of anxiety is all around you.”
“Sorry,” I said as my eyes darted to the floor. He was quite for a while, but once he spoke I found myself longing for the previous silence.

“Do you intend to challenge me for Inuyasha's affections?”

Talk about your heavy questions.

“I…I…”
“Take your time and gather your thoughts.”

I bowed my head and did just that. After what must have felt like an eternity of deliberation to the youkai before me, I answered his question, but not before, I voiced things that had been weighing on my mind.

“I have loved your brother for longer than I care to admit. I know the bond we have between us, mentally and otherwise, has caused things between he and I to grow complicated Lor…Sesshoumaru. For that, I am truly sorry. In a sense we have become more than close friends but lovers I do not think we are meant to be. Do I desire this? Yes, I do, I will not lie; but above that, I desire his happiness. So, my answer is no, I will not challenge you.”

The fleeting look that crossed the Demon Lord's face spoke volumes. The expression was a montage of confusion, curiosity, happiness but most of all relief. I was really surprised at that last one. Apparently, he saw me as a bigger threat to him than I would have ever dared guess.

“You do realize Inuyasha desires you as well.”

Well that was a shock. Considering I can hear his thoughts and this is the first I've heard of this, one could imagine my surprise. Curious as to how he came by this knowledge I asked. His reply was almost laughable, and it was definitely endearing.

“I have noticed the way he often looks at you. I hear some of the remarks he makes. I have seen how the two of you interact.”

“You mean the same way he's been looking at and talking to everyone here lately. You may notice it more with me because of how much time we spend together,” I began as my hand drew up to rub my chin in thought, “but in case you haven't noticed Yash has become quite the little flirt.”

“Flirt?” the youkai lord questioned with an arched eyebrow.

“Uh, that's a term from Kagome's time. It means someone who likes to verbally and physically tease others in a somewhat sexual manner.

Enraged the demon lord advances on me, “Are you saying that Inuyasha has been…I do not believe this…I would have known…”

I held up my hands and blocked his path to the door, “No, no don't take my words so literally.”

Those hard amber eyes had never looked so chilling, and they felt as if they were boring into my very soul. I had a feeling I had precious few moments to explain myself.

“What I meant by that was he likes to say and do things that would make others blush or cause them to become flustered with embarrassment by what he is implying.”

The demon slowed but continued to advance with a slow calculating calm.

“Think about that time Tibade was examining that small burn Yash got from Shippou's fox fire.”

Sesshoumaru stopped and I prayed he remembered the incident well. However, his face had turned expressionless causing my hope to fade.

*-*-*-*-*

(Sesshoumaru's POV)

The human is trying hard to explain his words but I found myself not very open to listening. Conversely, once he mentioned the incident with Tibade I calmed considerably. I did remember, and even though I did not show it I found the entire situation rather amusing.

The kits magic had gained some bite to it and while training with Koi, he actually managed to singe his chest. Tibade was present so he insisted on examining the burn. Seeing his youngest lord injured yet again the healer said, “If you continue to injure yourself at this rate my lord and require this level of care I might as well move into the royal chambers.”

Koibito then smirked at the healer and replied with, “Sounds like fun to me but I warn ya' we play hard, so don't complain if being sandwiched between the two of us gives your 2000 year old ass a heart attack.”

I didn't think the color would ever drain from Tibade's face.

Relaxing my features, I looked at the monk and said, “I do believe I now understand what you mean. That sort of thing makes Koibito a `flirt' you say?”

“Yes!” the monk replied shaking his head adamantly as relief washed over his face.

“I see.”

“I believe things between us are truly hard to define, but I don't think Yash holds any feelings for me that are deep enough for you to wor…concern yourself with. As you mentioned earlier I have heard his thoughts at some rather…interesting times and believe me he only has eyes for you.”

“My actions this evening may have altered how he feels about me.”

“I'm not going to say he was not hurt and angered by your behavior Sesshoumaru but you should know by now that once Yash loves someone it takes a lot to make him change his mind. He put up with a lot from Kagome, for years even, before he let her go.”

I nodded at the young man in front me and for the first time I truly took in his form. As far as appearances go, he was not…unattractive. Since coming to stay at the palace, he had grown his hair out and for whatever reason he had it unbound at the time. I note that he also has an unusual hue to his eyes for a human; his eyes are almost the same shade as Koi's on the moonless night. How odd…

He squirms under my scrutiny but I continue. Not to be cruel but in the recesses of my mind something is there. Some fragment of knowledge just beyond my reach. Unable to grasp it I said, “Thank you for what you have done this evening. I have learned many things this night alone.”

He smiles at me weakly and says, “Life is a learning experience, we all go through trying times.”

“Indeed,” was my retort, I could easily see how taxing this has been on the human and I found myself admiring his inner strength and personal resolve. Not many would not have risked as much nor put forth such an effort knowing they would not obtain their hearts desire. Tibade was correct in his assessment of this young holy man; he is unquestionably dedicated to Inuyasha.

I would have said more to him but I could almost feel his exhaustion and I also scented Tibade heading in this direction. I informed Miroku of this and when he opened his mouth to respond his stomach growled noisily. A faint blush colored his cheeks as he cleared his throat and asked me to pardon him. I glanced out at the night sky and it is well past what is known as the witching hour. No wonder his stomach is growling, his dinner was interrupted and he might not have eaten before he ended up in Tibade's quarter's earlier.

Moving to a small desk that was in the room I pulled out a quill and a few scraps of parchment. This will not set things right but hopefully it will be a start. I penned three notes: one to Tibade, one to Hikari and one to the wolf prince. I will have Tibade give these to Jaken while I visit with my Koibito.

I had just finished the notes when Tibade knocked on door. He updated us on Koi's condition saying he was fine and just as cranky as ever. The leg was not broken merely bruised with some torn muscle. Miroku asked the healer to tell Inuyasha he would see him tomorrow and excused himself.

I then thanked Tibade and handed him the three parchments as we left the room. I was anxious to see Inuyasha, and from what I could feel from him, he was anxious to see me as well. Tibade reads over the parchments and a mischievous glint settles in his eyes.

“I will see that Jaken gets on this immediately.”

“Thank you for everything Tibade, I know I do not say that enough.”

“Not a problem Pup, that is what friends and family are for,” he said and bowed excusing himself before I could reply.

When I arrived at the healers chambers, my thoughts began to run rampant. There were so many things that needed to be said I could not fathom where I should begin. Regardless of my current feelings of hesitation, I opened the doors and when I did I could hear Koi mumbling, discontentedly, about his leg. When I laid eyes on him, I realized why. Tibade had fashioned a splint of sorts for his injury that left his leg immobile. I could not prevent the smirk that splayed across my features.

“Go on and laugh,” Inuyasha huffed, “I know you want to.”

“Now what would make you think I would take pleasure in this unfortunate situation of yours?” I asked.

“Because you know how much I hate to sit still,” he spat as he crossed his arms over his chest and continued to pout.

“How long did Tibade say it would take you to heal?”

“He said if I kept still I could be good as new in a couple of days,” he replied with a roll of his eyes as if two days were an eternity.

“That is not so long little one.”

“Easy for you to say, you don't have to wear this blasted wooden contraption.”

I sat on the futon beside him and blatantly stared at him. In order to treat him Tibade had gotten rid of most of his clothing. Even with the pout on his face, he looked stunning. My eyes roamed over his form and when they settled on his injured leg a wave of guilt washed over me.

“Don't blame yourself for this. My actions and my temper played their part in this mess as well.”

His words did little to put me at ease but when I looked into those serious golden eyes, I knew he meant it. “Would you really forgive my childish actions so easily, Koi?”

“Yeah, I would. Why wouldn't I? There's no point in holding a grudge and besides, even though I don't always act like it…I love you. Which makes being mad at you damn near impossible.”

His words lifted a weight from my mind and soul. It was not that I didn't believe Miroku it simply felt definite to hear it from Koi's own lips.

“It would seem you are not the only one that does not act in accordance with their feelings. I too have been known to…err in my actions.”

The look he gave me was one of disbelief, “And words, don't forget the words,” he added.

“I thought you were not holding a grudge?”

“Oh, I'm not, I just wanted to get all of the facts out in the open,” he replied with a smirk.

“How about we finish this discussion in the privacy of our chambers?”

“Sounds good to me, as long as you don't expect me to hobble there.”

“I wouldn't dream of it my love.”

With a swirl of power I don't use often we were engulfed in light and moments later, we were in the bedchambers.

“Wow…that was…wow…” was all Inuyasha could manage to say about our trip.

We sat there in somewhat tense silence for a while before he called my name. When I moved closer to him on the bed without warning he grabbed the front of my haori and brought our lips together in an almost bruising kiss. The amount of emotion behind this action was dizzying. The kiss tasted of love, sorrow, need, passion and confusion. When he finally pulled away, he buried his face in the crook of my neck and words began tumbling past his lips faster than I could comprehend them. Before I could even begin to sort them out, he was openly crying in my arms.

Shocked at this intense display of feeling I sought to calm him enough to make out the words being drowned out by his emotion. When he did pull himself together he repeated the gist of his outburst.

“I hate feeling like this. I hate what I've done to you and to Miroku by acting the way I have. I hate feeling like I can't help myself. I hate being confused. And most of all I hate being an emotional wreck.”

Normally I am not one to concern myself with an outburst like this but maybe it is me reacting like that, which has contributed to this fiasco. I have always known my Koibito to be more vulnerable than myself when it came to such things but I didn't do much with that knowledge. I didn't modify many of my interactions with him to ensure that facet of his personality was taken care of. When I took offense to his words, he apologized and tried his best to placate my wounded ego. When I was frustrated due to my own confusion and acted cold to him he, although notably saddened by this, did not throw a fit, he excused himself from my presence and asked me to find him when I was in the mood for company.

Moreover, how do I repay this? I behave like a bastard and spoiled brat when his behavior is less than ideal.

“None of us are perfect, Koibito.”

“And boy have I ever proven that today,” he said dejectedly as he flopped back on the bed, an action that caused his hair to fan out around him. He flung his arm across his forehead and sighed loudly. I usually didn't care to watch others wallow in self-pity, but I felt he had somewhat earned the privilege.

Until talking to Tibade and Miroku I had no clear idea how to respond to Inuyasha and how harshly he took my words and actions. I had also never considered that this bond between them might be affecting their actions toward each other.

That fact alone was something to ponder.

Gently I ran the back of my hand down his cheek. Tired golden eyes blinked at me and I was lost. He was weary and so was I. Soundlessly I shed most of my clothing and curled around him as best I could while being mindful of his injury. He relaxed in my embrace and it was not long before sleep claimed us both.

*-*-*-*-*

(Kouga`s POV)

Just when I thought today couldn't get any stranger, that little toad servant came knocking on my chamber door at an ungodly hour with a note from Sesshoumaru. It said for me to go to the kitchen, pick up a tray from Hikari and take it to Miroku. It seemed like more of a job for the imp or a maid but I did it anyway. A request from the western lord was just a nice way of giving an order. I had planned on giving my monk some space considering everything that had gone on tonight, but it looked like that was no longer an option. I could still feel his lips upon mine and the heat of his body in my arms.

I wasn't ready to face him.

And the closer I got to his room the more nervous I became. I stood outside his door longer than I cared to admit before I knocked. When he replied with, come in, I noted how exhausted he sounded. I entered slowly and my eyes were drawn to his form in the window seat illuminated by moonlight. He looked as tired as he sounded.

He didn't spare me a glance and said, “You can leave whatever it is by the door miss.”

“I'm not a maid,” I replied and his head snapped in my direction. Weary eyes grew large as they realized who I was. They soon returned to their normal size and he offered an apology for his assumption. I snorted and said, “You worry about the strangest things, Houshi.”

I walked toward him and placed the tray on the table closest to him. “Come on and eat, I can hear your stomach growling.”

He offered me a weak smile but didn't move. Damn. I never knew what to do in situations like this. Quelling my fear I walked over to the window and took a seat beside him. He was staring out at the night sky like a lost soul. Every few moments the wind would kick up and blow his hair around. When a few stands clung to the bridge of his nose, my hand was there moving them back behind his ear before I could think better of it. I was pulling my hand back when pale fingers encircled my wrist. I was stunned by the gesture but I said nothing.

“How long?”

“Look Miroku, you're tired, and you…”

“Don't dodge my question.”

“Your food is getting cold and…”

“This is why your instincts drove you to intervene when Sesshoumaru tried to take my head off.”

I sighed in defeat. We were obviously going to talk about this regardless.

“What do you want from me, Miroku?”

“Right now, just some answers.”

“How long? Well I'm not exactly sure, several moons at least.”

He snorted and shook his head before saying, “I…I use to wonder how he had no idea how I felt for him, and now I find that I am no better.”

“I didn't want you to know…I mean not before I was ready to tell you.”

His face grew sad and he turned from me to look out the window once more. I had no idea how to handle this and I didn't want to screw up so I remained silent. Eventually he sighed, shoulders slumping forward and said, “I did it. I did the right thing to try and make sure he's happy…that they are happy…”

“I don't know what you did but it had to be this side of a miracle for them to be talking this soon after that disaster at dinner.”

“I was merely straight forward and honest,” he said as his facial expression grew strained, “but now…now I…”

“Now you're emotionally drained and feel like shit.”

Miroku shook his head vigorously in the affirmative, still never moving his gaze from the night sky. Ever so slowly a lone tear made its way down the monks face. It was more than I could bear. I wasn't sure how the gesture would be taken but I made it anyway. I tapped the distraught man on his shoulder and opened my arms wide. He looked at me with an almost angry expression for a moment before he fell forward taking me up on my silent offer.

His shoulders shook as he sobbed quietly in my embrace. Hardly a sound came out of him as he let out some of his pent up emotions. The occasional sniff was about it and he seemed almost done I held him even tighter. With him in my arms it was hard for me not to notice how much smaller than me he was. Not that I didn't know this before but just how much was glaringly obvious at that moment, and I liked it. He fit perfectly in my arms and I thought, if the gods are with me, and I don't screw up, I might just get to keep him here.

We parted and I urged him to eat his food. He nibbled at some of it and we started talking about any and everything but the current situation and that was fine by me.

I was in the middle of telling him about the time Ginta caught his tail on fire when I noticed how silent he was. I looked over at him only to realize he'd dozed off sitting up. He had fallen asleep so quickly I wondered if Tibade had put something in his tea. One sniff of his cup told me that wasn't the case at all, he was just that damn tired.

I moved the tray out of the way and stood up. Looking down at his sleeping form brought a smile to my face. He looked so peaceful I really didn't want to wake him but he needed to move or he was gonna wake up with one hell of a cramp from sleeping like that. Deciding against calling his name or shaking him I scooped him up in my arms and carried him across the room. Steps away from my destination he stirred and mumbled, “Whattaya doin'?”

“I'm putting you in bed.”

“Um…k,” was the barely coherent reply.

I grinned at his half sleep words, kneeled on the bed and placed him in the middle. As I pulled away a hand grabbed mine and he said, “Thank you.”

The expression on his face and the look in his eyes was something I'd never forget. It was a weary look of gratitude mixed with admiration. I had never seen something so beautiful in my life. I rubbed my thumb reassuringly across the back of the hand in mine and started to move again. His hand squeezes mine and I can read the unspoken request in his eyes.

He doesn't want to be alone and I don't blame him. I will stay. I didn't want to leave him anyway.

*-*-*-*-*

(Entropy's POV)

The girl is beyond impatient now. She has been trying out her new skills at random and her growing disregard for the safety and wellbeing of others is tainting the jewel nicely. She is convinced her new abilities will win her precious Hanyou over and I can't wait until he finds out how much pain and suffering she has caused for her own selfish desires. Even I would shy away from using innocents like she has over the past month. She has even gone as far as befriending her soon to be test subjects before she tries to use the jewels power to separate their demon side from their human one.

If their screams were any indication, it is quite the painful process to endure.

She is sitting on a fallen log, with her next victim, near where I stand picking herbs I have no use for; but I have to do something to keep up my façade of scholar and healer.

I hear her asking him if he'd ever had any true friends and I watch as she hugs him when he shakes his head no. She's patting him on the back and murmuring soothing words. I am sure the poor soul that said he is one-quarter bat youkai has no idea he is in for a world of hurt very soon. As he sobs his lifetime of woes out on her shoulder, I know what's coming next. So when I hear, “I'm a priestess of great power if you would like me too I could remove the demon part from you.” I am not shocked in the least.

He looks at her wide-eyed and backs away from her embrace. I couldn't help but think, if he had half a mind he would pick up and run like hell. I have never seen her attempt this but I have seen the aftermath and the first few were left misshapen mindless beings. The next set faired a little better but not by much. The only measure of success she's had was with the last two, at least they were still able to function after she was done but the energy used to try to separate their soul had left them scarred and drained.

Wishing on the jewel for such an outcome is one thing; pulling at a beings soul with its power in such an untrained manner is another. If I really cared I would tell her it's never going to work the way she thinks it will…but what fun would that be?

I figure either one of two things will happen, when she finally faces this Inuyasha. Either she will end up killing him in her overzealous efforts to make him purely human or he and his comrades will kill her for attempting to do such a thing to him. If he is as strong as I believe him to be, it will be the latter.

There is also much talk around these lands about him and from what is said he is a force to be reckoned with and respected, not some toy or possession to be taken as lightly as she does. Not only that if he has indeed formed a united front with his brother Lord Sesshoumaru then she stands to bring the wrath of the west down upon her shoulders.

I cannot wait for this to come to pass.

I move to pick another leaf of some sort when I hear the screaming begin. When I turned around, she has the quarter demon bathed in a mixture of her purification powers and energy from the jewel. Even when the poor creature drops to his knees and starts begging for mercy, she continues on as if she hears nothing. “I told you it would be uncomfortable Yuzuke,” She says to the demon that is now all but writhing at her feet in agony.

I watch in sick fascination as her eyebrows knit in concentration trying to do the impossible. When she finally ceases Yuzuke had long since fallen silent, having passed out from the pain no doubt. He is still alive and despite having a few areas of charred flesh, he doesn't look nearly as bad off as any of the others.

“Did it work Miss Kagome?” I ask knowing full well it did not.

“I'm not sure,” she said “I'll have to wait until he wakes up to see if he's still in his right mind. He has so much of my energy pouring off of him right now I can't tell if he's still a quarter demon or not.”

Of course, he is you fool, I think as I watch her place a weak barrier around the creature so he can't escape if he happened to wake anytime soon. “I'm going to look for some trouble makers to get rid of while he's knocked out.” She says childishly.

“Be careful, young Kagome.”

“Don't worry about me Konran-sama I will be back soon.” With that said, she hovers away.

It was not to long after she leaves that the unfortunate Yuzuke begins to stir. I swiftly morph into a hawk so I can observe him without him knowing. When he finally staggers to his feet, I begin to formulate a plan. I need to get a message to the Western Lord about Kagome's actions without them knowing it's her. She has always been careful to never tell them her name or let the weaker ones know it is the jewel that grants her such power. If I free this fool and send him to the west like a messenger, I can get things rolling.

I fly back through the woods a bit before I change into a traveling monk. When I come wandering into the clearing I go through all of the chants and motions I see monks do before I disperse the barrier. The misguided Yuzuke falls to his knees in gratitude. “Oh thank you kind monk some mad priestess tried to all but kill me then trapped me in this bubble.”

“Did you attack her?” I ask playing my role to the hilt.

“No sir, she befriended me then said she could make me human,” he replied with his head hung low in shame. If I had a heart, it would have gone out to him.

“You are not her first victim I'm afraid to say. She needs to be stopped before she harms more innocents like you. Take your story to the ruler of these lands. I am sure Lord Sesshoumaru will reward you greatly for informing him of such things.”

His eyes grew wide at my suggestion. “Do you think someone like him would really listen to a peasant mixed breed like me?”

I nod at the pathetic creature before me and send him on his way.

It was dusk before Kagome returned. As a hawk, I watched her look for her prey and stomp around in anger once she realized he was nowhere to be seen. I took my time returning to my current guise as Konran and wandering back into the clearing.

As soon as she laid eyes on me she screeched, “He's gone Konran-sama! Were you here when he escaped?”

“No my child this is the first time I've stepped into this clearing since I left earlier.” I lied. Lies fall so easily off my tongue.

“Damn!” she huffs as she plops down on the forest floor.

“There are always others young Kagome.”

“I suppose…” she pouted as she idly plucked some of the flowers around her.

While watching her sulk, my mind wandered to the wayward messenger I sent to the West.

This promises to be entertaining.