InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Finding Kagome ❯ Chapter 44 - The Homecoming ( Chapter 44 )

DISCLAIMER:: All the originals are Rumiko Takahashi's babies, I just play with them . . . and occasionally torment them. All the other's are mine...

 

 

A/N:: 'Finding Kagome' has been nominated under the 'Best Drama Fiction' category with The Feudal Association'!! I want to say a special thank you for that honor. Voting is underway. If you are not familiar with the organization, you can learn more at feudalassociation dot cadkitten dot com (remove the spaces and replace the dot with a period.)

 

 

Special thanks to Mooman_fl for his beta on this chapter.

 

 

 

 

FINDING KAGOME

 

 

 

Chapter 44

 

 

 

The muffled pounding of the surf against rocky cliffs below was accentuated by the resonant bark of a bull seal off in the distance. High above, dark clouds with luminous fringes skittered across the burnished silver of a half moon as it progressed along it's path to the west. A light breeze played with the leaves of a small stand of bamboo, and she tipped her head to the side, then reached into the singular pocket of her silk lounging pajamas. Pulling out a solitary, bronze hawk feather, she released it into the air then waved a hand in a fluid zig-zag motion. Her fingers bent slightly, elegantly with each pass through the air as she lightly tugged the familiar, albeit invisible, ribbons that wafted from the direction of the sea. Ribbons only one of her kind could see. Ribbons that could just as easily be transformed into biting blades. Crimson eyes sparkled when the feather caught, then returned to twirl and dance like a puppet in front of her, the ribbons thrumming from her manipulation.

 

“Oh, you like that, huh?” she chortled to the yapping puppy, who had stopped his nosing around the shrubbery to observe the spectacle. Bringing her other hand into play, she extended yet another strand of youki to gracefully beckoned the ribbons of breeze to turn and carry the dancing plume closer to her audience. Back peddling in a crouch, he emitted growling yaps of warning. It nearly reached his nose before he ultimately jumped, snapped and caught the thing in his mouth, ending the dance. Snorting he comically worked to push it off his tongue, rubbing his muzzle frantically in the manicured grass.

 

Kagura laughed merrily at his discomfort, ruffling his fur with the ribbons before dropping her control. “You weren't supposed to eat it, stupid. . . Hurry up and do your business. It's going to get wet out here soon.”

 

The air was growing thick with the ozone of an impending spring shower, and Kagura reveled in it as she turned and walked along the cobbled path back toward the main entrance to the mansion. She had always loved that sensation of gathering power just before a storm. It sung to her very essence. Sesshoumaru had chosen well when he bought this land from the Fed all those years ago. Facing out to sea during a good blow was like being perched right on the edge of the world. More than once she had spent an evening on the cliffs, her arms outstretched, fan in hand, as she would tug and weave at the blustery power of the Gods. Battles were so few and far between anymore, it had become her favorite way to stretch and exercise her talents.

 

She was just beginning to see how much her little pleasures had played in the decisions that her mate had made over the years. Looking back, it was as though he had been making those choices with her in mind. So many little things all adding up to an American Empire of sorts. Triple D Enterprises was in the U.S. 'Top Five'. There were so many subsidiary companies, most people had no idea they were eating, reading, wearing and sleeping-on products from the same conglomerate. Sesshoumaru had made more than a few enemies in building that empire. Consequently the property that was now her home was one of the most secure places on the planet, she was certain of it. Yet it carried a subtle opulence that rivaled more than a few of the royals in Europe.

 

She knew that he had grown to care about her with the passage of time, promising to care for her, to protect her. And what had she done, but flee in a panic from the security he had offered her. She owed him so much, and yet she had abandoned him. It wasn't actually him that she had been fleeing from. It was the threat to her hard won independence that he represented. At the time, it had slipped her mind just how integral the daiyoukai had been in bringing that independence about.

 

More than once after she had emigrated to the States, he had crossed the Pacific on 'business', yet, often as not, he wouldn't attend any meetings during his stay. She had known that he was checking on her. That he was inexplicably drawn to her. His stays had lengthened, until the last time he simply hadn't returned home. She hadn't complained. She had enjoyed their excursions, exploring the wonders of this continent. She had enjoyed his company, the familiarity of him. She had missed the part where he had started to need her. When she had begun to crave his proximity more than she coveted her freedom. She couldn't put her finger on exactly when that line had been crossed. That it had, was all that seemed to matter.

 

The phone conversation he'd had with InuYasha troubled her. It left Sesshoumaru frustrated and irritated enough to growl at her when she hadn't been able to help her curiosity as he grabbed the notepad. Of course, she knew better. His brother's personal concerns were private matters to the Taisho. But she also knew he would eventually tell her, when he was ready. He nearly always did.

 

So, InuYasha was bringing his miko home, and she really did have the Shikon. One thing was certain, she and the Jewel would be safe here in the Inu domain, more so than anywhere else. InuYasha would have his mate with him. Comparing the great Lord of the West to a mother hen was not something she would want to do out loud, oh no. But everyone could be happy. Especially her mate. He would finally have all his chicks tucked away neatly in their nest. Happy. Content. At least for as long as the Fates would allow it, anyway.

 

A renewed round of yaps drew her attention back to the puppy, and following the focus of his attention, she discovered her mate standing regally on the balcony of his study watching them in his indomitably impassive way. Back lit by the lowered lights of the room behind him, shifting beams of moonlight played across the fine smoothness of his features. The breeze stirred his unbound hair and she felt a familiar flutter in her middle. Gods, but he was magnificent. Even if he was, as often as not, an arrogant ass. A pair of white sweats were the vestments of her personal guardian angel.

 

Okay, so that analogy might be. . . pushing it a little bit. Almost as bad as the 'mother hen'. She grinned mischievously, shaking her head at her aberrant musings.

 

“Come on, kid . . .” she leaned down and patted her hands, urging the puppy to come to her, but he continued to bark, tail flailing madly. “I've got stuff to do, let's go. . .” she motioned and snapped her fingers moving up the path. The little guy was being stubborn, and continued to bark at the Demon on the balcony.

 

Without warning, Sesshoumaru dropped down from his perch, emitting a low growl at the excited pooch. Kagura watched with interest as the pup flipped to his back, quieting immediately and baring his stomach to the daiyoukai. All her mate had done was make a sound.

 

He hadn't had much of anything to do with the pup since he was delivered, other than to yell at him to 'get out' after he'd peed on that rug. She'd taken on entertaining the cute little guy in order to keep the peace, at least until InuYasha came home, to the point of neglecting important preparation for her meeting in the morning. And now, all Sesshoumaru had to do was growl and the little rascal just rolled over and played dead. Huffing low twice, Sesshoumaru motioned with his hand and the pup got up, yipping once to the Demon, then trotted off toward the stairs at the front of the residence.

 

“How the Hell did you do that?” she demanded, hands on her hips. He raised a brow at her, a hint of amusement in his eyes, then circled his arm around her shoulders to walk her inside.

 

“The little beast will not be allowed to disregard my mate,” he finally replied. “I told him to behave, or else. Frankly, I am surprised he understood. I have not spoken Inu with intention for a very long time.”

 

“Now that's something I hadn't thought of,” Kagura mused, wondering how hard it would be to learn.

 

“Hn,” he grunted distractedly.

 

“Does that mean that after all this time, you've actually been saying something when you growled at me?” she inquired with a mischievous grin. “I never realized . . . I thought it meant you were too angry to talk . . .” her brow furrowed with realization and she turned to face him. “You've been telling me to roll over and play dead!!”

 

Sesshoumaru snorted uncharacteristically, “To submit, actually . . . though I certainly never expected that you would comply. Not my Blithe,” His eyes shone with affection as he called her by the alias she had first used on coming to San Francisco. She recalled how much he had liked the name, said it was most appropriate. It was a sad day when the time came for her to change her identity, something that was a matter of course for any immortal living in human society. He'd always liked that name, perhaps she would take it again.

 

Lacing his fingers into her hand, he drew her close and gently touched his lips to hers. “About earlier . . .” his voice no more than breath, there was apology in his tone.

 

“No . . . I was being nosy. Your business with your brother is . . . well, none of mine,” she shook her head, then looked deeply into his eyes. “I'm concerned too. I know you've got a lot riding on success with him.”

 

“You make it sound like an impending gambling debt.” He pulled his hand away, his face beginning to harden.

 

“NO! I didn't mean it like that . . . it's just . . .” Kagura grasped the fabric of his shirt, willing him to not pull away from her. “It's the final step . . . and I hate it.”

 

“You knew where this was going, why I had to find him,” his eyes softened. “There is still time, Itoshii. It will be quite a long while before he is ready. He has much to learn,” he stroked clawed fingers through her hair, tucking an errant lock gently behind her pointed ear. “We have barely begun his training. His need to to seek out his mate rightfully took precedence. Once he brings her home, he can settle into a routine.” He glanced toward the gate. Though there was no direct sign of it, she knew he was beyond anxious for InuYasha's return.

 

“Sesshou . . . I've been thinking,” Kagura placed a palm on his chest drawing his attention back to her. He examined her apprehensive expression for a moment before responding.

 

“A dangerous pastime for you, my heart,” his eyes narrowed before a hint of amusement filtered across his features. Her initial flash of outrage disappeared as she realized that he was actually being playful. It seems that InuYasha's presence was having an unexpected influence over the Ice Lord. Imagine that. Gaining a sense of humor by osmosis. If only a sense of humor was all that was needed to make everything all right again.

 

“So, tell me. . . what is it that you have been thinking,” he prompted, breaking her from her musing.

 

Kagura took a breath, carefully gauging his expression. The subject was taboo, yet one that she felt had to be broached. She'd given up on 'happy ever after' endings long ago, but InuYasha's appearance, and the discovery of the miko's most recent incarnation, then the strengthening of her own bond with Sesshoumaru after so much time, had awakened something deep inside of her. It had to be more than coincidence. Her emotional reaction could only be compared to feelings she had harbored the first time she ever approached the daiyoukai. The first time she had asked him to kill Naraku. He had regarded her plea with disdain, telling her that if she had a grievance with the vile hanyou then she should take care of it herself. Hope was a rare thing in those days. And he had callously dashed hers that day so very long ago. But would he now?

 

“The girl . . . the miko . . . perhaps she has answers . . .” Kagura stammered, avoiding his eyes. “Kagome . . . she was powerful . . . and smart, could do amazing things . . . if she has the Tama . . . then maybe . . .”

 

“This Sesshoumaru refuses to indebt himself, or his mate . . . to that accursed Jewel,” he interrupted abruptly. “You surprise me by even suggesting it.”

 

“I'm not suggesting you take the damn thing from her! But if it makes her stronger, maybe she can do something!” Now she did meet his eyes with a determined set to her jaw, the front of his sweatshirt fisted in her hands.

 

“You will say nothing to the girl about this.” He gripped her shoulder tightly for emphasis. “It would change nothing. The plan has already been set into motion, Kagura. InuYasha is the heir. He will assume control once he is trained. It is as it should be.” Looking down at her hands with a hardened glare, she renewed her resolve and twisted the fabric rather than letting go.

 

“I agree with you!! I don't care about the damn 'House of Inu', Sesshoumaru!!” she tugged at his shirt, and he reached to yank it from her hands with a glare, then turned to walk away. “Crap . . . That didn't come out right.” Chasing after him, she trotted around him skipping backwards as she tried to get him to at least look at her. “Anata!! This is about YOU. . . not about producing an heir . . . I don't want to lose you, damnit!! Now that we're finally together. . . it's almost as if you're determined to . . . to die . . . just like your damn father . . .” Hearing the words leave her mouth, she found herself momentarily shocked at them, and she halted her chase.

 

However, the statement did get his attention, and he stopped as well.

 

No, she hadn't known his father. He had died long before she was even a wicked glimmer in Naraku's twisted mind. Even before the notorious Onigumo had cut his swath across Japan. But she did know the story. How the Great Inu no Taisho had gone out for blood, knowing he was already too wounded to possibly survive. It had been a matter of honor. His stubbornness had thrown the whole of the Western Lands into such a turmoil that Sesshoumaru had never fully succeeded in reclaiming it. She knew the history. She didn't want to see it repeated.

 

“Do you honestly believe that insulting my bloodline, then comparing me to my sire will shake me into agreeing to your plot?” His voice was low, tense. She straightened, bracing against the swell of his youki, her conviction never wavering.

 

InuYasha was the heir. That was agreed. The continuation of the House of Inu rested solely on him, and the poor sap didn't even know it. When Naraku had created her, it had not been with the continuation of his line in the plan. Which was probably for the best, all things considered. And Sesshoumaru had never shown any interest in finding a mate, that is until recently. InuYasha would assume control of the family holdings once he was trained. That was 'the plan'. But, the impending succession was the least of her concerns.

 

The malady that had so slowly and insidiously weakened Sesshoumaru had remained undiagnosed, despite consultation with the foremost authorities in Youkai medicine. In short, he was an immortal who was being gradually robbed of his immortality, and no one could figure out why. She had been the first to realize that something was amiss, long before she ever left Japan. It had since become a heavily guarded secret that the daiyoukai firmly believed his days were numbered.

 

“You make it sound like I'm concocting some form of treachery. This is your LIFE we are talking about, Sesshoumaru. Not your brother, or the bloody succession of the Inu Empire . . .” she knew he would never dream of lashing out at her, but she had to force herself to remain calm, sound reasonable. “Would you deny us the future we've both longed for? Why are you so set against at least consulting with the girl?”

 

Sesshoumaru studied his wife for a moment, then focused on the gate. Taking a deep breath, his demeanor shifted, his youki gradually receding. “I would not have InuYasha believe that I have used him . . . or the miko for that matter . . . for my own purposes. He has already stated that he has suspected ulterior motives to my seeking him out.” He turned and locked her eyes with a rare, haunted expression.

 

“You did have ulterior motives . . .” her brow furrowed. Come to think of it, it had seemed just a little too easily that Sesshoumaru had convinced his brother to accept his role in the succession. The announcement of their intent was to be made to the Council at the next session. With the emergency session having been called, she assumed it would be then that the formalities would be addressed. Yet Sesshoumaru hadn't mentioned anything about it during the call. But there was more to it than that. Kagura caught her breath with the realization. “You haven't told him . . . ”

 

“It is not as though there is a choice to be made,” he replied, expression grim, determined.

 

“He came looking for the girl, and has no idea what you have planned . . .” incredulously vocalizing her thoughts, Kagura's eyes became accusatory. “I suppose it's my turn to be surprised.”

 

“He still does not trust me. I only have myself to blame for that.” He looked away from her, masking his features. “For InuYasha to fully understand what this duty entails . . . it will require his full attention. It is my sincere hope, having the miko near will bring focus for him. It is then that all of it can be revealed. He is so . . . childlike. Behind the bravado there is an innocence that I never saw before. In the past I mistook it for stupidity, ignorance . . . my brother is many things, but, there is one thing he is not, and that is 'stupid'. I know that he omitted something important when he called. He evaded my questions with useless drivel about the puppy. Now is not the time to approach either of them . . . with matters beyond those of immediate concern.”

 

 

Okay, so her timing was off. It wouldn't be the first time for that, or the last. Of that she was certain. However, he hadn't said 'never', and that one small favor gave her a twinge of renewed hope. The time would come, and if she had learned nothing else from her accursed 'parent', she had learned the value of patience. Kagura drew close, wrapped her arms around her beloved, and pressed her ear against his chest. The beat of his heart was a comfort. It was strong and steady, and reassured her. It may have been over a century since she last seen him assume his energy form, his speed and agility may have lessened significantly, but his heart was still strong. She would wait, because he was right about one thing. There was still time.

 

“I'll make you a deal . . .” she raised her face to meet his eyes.

 

“You and your deals . . .” his voice low, gentle, a hint of bemusement in his eyes. His arm encircled her, and she relaxed into his embrace. “What do you propose?”

 

“My terms . . .” she began, pulling away, all business. “I promise I won't be the one to bring your health issues up . . . at least for now. But, if either of them have questions . . . I will answer them. And be assured, My Lord, when that time comes, I'll be asking a few questions of my own . . .”

 

The breath he took sounded remarkably like a sigh of resignation before he spoke. “InuYasha suspects something is amiss. I have experienced him being . . . protective, when we are together. Odd, that he is so, yet still seems to not trust me,” his voice quieted as his thoughts seemed to drift off for a moment. “Let them settle in. Let us neutralize the current crisis before we introduce another. Can you honor me in this, my mate?”

 

“Excuse me, Sir?” From seemingly nowhere a young man approached, one of the Security staff by the look of his garb. Charcoal black tunic with a mandarin collar over simple slacks of the same hue. The true giveaway was the small looped ear piece and the radio on his belt. They were all over the compound, and Kagura was still unaccustomed to their constant, watchful presence. At least they were discreet for the most part, staying in the shadows. Though that of itself could be disconcerting.

 

“Report,” Sesshoumaru demanded still holding her, barely affording the man a glance.

 

“The perimeter has been breached, Sir.” The Demon turned quickly, the man had gained his full attention. “Surveillance says a motorcycle . . . same model as the young Lord's,” the man's brow furrowed his eyes unfocused as he listened. Sesshoumaru's relief at the news was short lived. “Sir . . . It's not him.”

 

“What do you mean, it's not him??” The Demon demanded. Kagura stepped back and glared toward the gate. The faint whine of a motorcycle approaching drifted up the hill beyond it and something else. She turned her ear to listen to the wind.

 

“Two riders, the driver appears to be male, dark hair, Sir. No helmet,” the guard reported in a rush. “What do you want us to do?” Sesshoumaru glared in the direction of the quickly approaching motorcycle.

 

Kagura tilted her head further into the breeze, then glanced at her mate. The voice had become more discernible now, it was definitely InuYasha screaming at the top of his lungs.

 

“It's him . . .” she resolved, her lips thin. “Can you hear him? He's screaming 'open the gate!'”

 

“You heard the Lady . . . Open the God damned gate,” the Demon quietly ordered his guard.

 

The man jerked around anxiously and barked into the small radio, “Do it! Open it! Taisho's orders!”

 

The low hum of the mechanism was punctuated by a flash of lightning and a heart stopping eruption of thunder. The Ducati slipped through the partially opened gate and pulled around directly to the main stairs. The young man in the front seat killed the engine, and swung a red hakama clad leg over the front to dismount, and Kagura gasped. He then quite literally plucked the passenger off the bike and hovered over her trembling form to remove the helmet. Small drops of rain began to fall

 

“But . . . it's not his night . . .” Kagura murmured in confusion as they approached the couple, only to receive an accusatory glare from her mate. Her eyes widened as she remembered that she wasn't supposed to have that particular information. She had never told anyone, even Naraku. Especially Naraku. Sesshoumaru stopped several feet away and emitted an involuntary growl. His eyes flashed red, youki bloomed.

 

The young woman froze, her eyes saucers as she clutched at her chest. Suddenly something was flung away as if it had burned her, her hand immediately returned to her chest to nervously be wrung by the other. Kagura followed the sound of the discarded weapon and recognized the bright hue of a miko's purifying power.

 

Stroking the darkening crest on her mate's wrist, she pressed against him in a practiced effort to calm his youki. “I'm sure there's a reasonable explanation, Anata,” voice raised to draw his attention away from the obviously terrified woman.

 

“Anata?? What the Hell?? ” InuYasha made no attempt to mask his shock, then quickly grabbed for the girl who's knees started to give. “Just . . . back the fuck off, Jackass!!” InuYasha held up his free hand, arm braced around the trembling woman. “She's scared enough without your bullshit!!”

 

“What happened??” Kagura demanded once she felt the daiyoukai's aura begin to recede. Cautiously approaching the pair, she determined that the girl was obviously traumatized, and trying very hard to be submissive. Interesting. It was as though she knew that meeting the daiyoukai's eyes could be misinterpreted. And she had disarmed herself. Smart. Either that or instinctual. Those know-it-all researchers who claimed humans possess no instincts spouted rubbish. Whatever the case, the rain was beginning to fall in earnest and they needed to get her inside. She was only human, after all. But, the hanyou turned human stubbornly blocked Kagura's approach.

 

“What are you doing?? Get back . . .” then to his brother, “What the fuck is she doing here??”

 

“I'm trying to help, idiot!!” She rose to her full height which was still substantially shorter than the man in front of her. “She needs to get warm, she's shaking like a leaf!! If you two want to butt heads, be my guest. You've obviously traumatized her, let me take her inside and get her calmed down before we have to call in a medic!”

 

“Nuh-uh!! No way!! You ain't touchin' her!” InuYasha wrapped his arms around his trembling woman protectively.

 

“Maybe she has something to say about that, eh baka?? Kagome . . . Kagome . . . look at me, sweetie,” Kagura coaxed, leaning around the broad shoulder blocking her approach. Motioning toward the mansion, she spoke gently, persuasively. “Would you like to come inside with me and dry off? Leave these two to their hosing contest?” Kagome stared at her blankly at first, then offered her a tiny nod. The following wide eyed look to InuYasha implied need for his approval, which had Kagura huffing in exasperation. He whispered to the girl, and with her nod he reluctantly let her go, with an unmistakable glower of warning directed at the wind sorceress.

 

“I beg your pardon . . .” Sesshoumaru summoned their attention with his commanding air, “This Sesshoumaru does not participate in 'hosing contests'.”

 

“Could have fooled me,” Kagura took Kagome's arm and brought it around her shoulder for support. “All that shouting and growling . . . No wonder the poor girl is in shock . . . come on, sweetie. I'll call for something warm to drink too. Let InuYasha debrief with the Taisho.”

 

“My study, halfbreed . . . NOW,” Sesshoumaru quickly ascended the stairs, brushing past the women to disappear through the door.

 

Kagura led Kagome inside with a backward glance at InuYasha who stood alone in the now pouring rain, dark eyes wide and angry, his jaw working akin to chewing a tough piece of meat. Retrieving the knife from where Kagome had tossed it, he flipped it in his hand twice, then glowered up at her before angrily throwing it to stick solidly into the soil of a nearby flowerbed.

 

This was going to be a long night.

 

 

~oo00O00oo~

 

 

 

A multilingual cacophony of dirty jokes and insults followed by raucous laughter and an occasional feminine squeal filtered out from the Del Sur hideout, an old forgotten tavern well hidden among ancient, crumbling buildings near the waterfront. The city hadn't bulldozed the area after the devastating quake in 2032 but neither had anything been done to preserve the once historic neighborhood. The eight block area was a dangerous blight the way it stood, hence no one came around, choosing to do the typically human thing and turn a blind eye rather than deal with the expense and inconvenience of restoration. That was fine with Raoul, it made for a perfect little playground for the Del Sur gang.

 

They weren't a clan, though many in their ranks were related. Neither were they a true tribe, as many in their ranks had joined as they made their way North in answer to the summons from the infamous Lady Ayame. M'noche knew of the demoness by reputation, and made no bones about the fact that he believed she was the embodiment of 'feminine demonic perfection'. In other words, he was smitten as hell with the bitch, based mostly on the rumors of her tactical interference with human affairs during World War Two, then later during the Korea and Viet Nam conflicts. It was rumored that she had even allied with Pol Pot in Cambodia. Raoul never once doubted that if she hadn't been on the other side of the planet she would have had her fingers in Hitler's stew as well. The young demon had to admit after laying his own eyes on her, she was some woman alright. M'noche had often said they would have heard more about her if that stupid twitch in Asia that the Americans were so fond of calling the 'Great Asian War' had lasted longer than 18 months. Cut so short, what should have been World War Three became nothing more than a couple of pages about technological and diplomatic interventions in the history books. Leave it to China to step in and screw up a chance for some real carnage.

 

That had been the lure of the Southern Hemisphere for M'noche, where war was still primitive. There were still wild lands there, ripe for the taking. Almost like stepping back a century, at least in the deeper interior regions. If it had been anyone else, Tio M'noche would have told them to take a flying fuck, but to be summoned North again by one so highly acclaimed had been an honor even he couldn't refuse.

 

His uncle had done well by his men, and provided a non-stop flow of drink and even pool tables to keep them entertained during their confinement within the city limits. The homeless and local whores made for interesting game, there was no lack for sustenance. However, the sounds emanating from beyond the barred door were considerably more cheerful than usual, echoing out brazenly into the predawn darkness.

 

“Stupid bastards are celebrating,” Raoul muttered to himself, adjusting the limp body on his shoulder. He stood on the street just outside the weather beaten, though still quite sturdy, solid hardwood door for several seconds, steeling his resolve. Three men dead in what should have been a routine mission was not going to be welcome news. His uncle's reputation for 'shooting the messenger' didn't make the situation any easier. Not when one of the casualties had been the old bastard's only son.

 

Raising his leg, Raoul side kicked the door from its hinges to crash onto the floor. A caged woman in the back shrieked, while the abrupt entrance startled the rest into silence, poised in a typical tableau for the barely disciplined gang. Raoul surveyed their silent stares through the swirling dust. From the poker table to the left, bar to the right, the occupied iron cage in the rear where the stupid woman was still screaming, and the few in attendance of the game of 8 ball currently in progress, everyone gawked. Everyone except M'noche, of course, who just like the old warhorse he was, continued to lean into lining up his shot, paunchy frame draped over the table with a fat Cuban cigar in his teeth. He took his cue and tapped at the corner pocket.

 

“You damn well better fix that, asshole,” he ground out around the cigar as he made his shot, then raised up to glower at the younger demon. “Someone shut that stupid bitch UP!” he barked over his shoulder in annoyance. The screaming abruptly stopped with a muffled gurgle. Someone over at the poker table chuckled.

 

“Hey, what's up with Ewok?” came an inquiry from over by the bar.

 

Raoul shook his head, then sauntered over to the pool table and with complete disregard for the game in progress, dropped the body onto the middle of it. Turning to regard his leader's glower briefly with his own, his eyes then traveled around the room in disapproval.

 

“What the fuck happened?” M'noche demanded. Pulling the cigar from his mouth, his eyes narrowed on the body that had just displaced his next shot.

 

“Fucking Kouga . . . happened,” Raoul growled, then raised his voice for all ears to hear, his eyes still fixed on his uncle. “They weren't alone. Kouga set us up. The whole fucking mission was a set up.” The room erupted into a discordant chorus of low murmurs.

 

“Where's Diego? That little piece of shit better have an explanation.” M'noche glowered toward the doorway, obviously expecting his son to walk through it.

 

“Dispolvo, Tio,” Raoul braced himself. “The bitch . . . Just like the witch said, she's a fuckin' priestess. She turned him to dust. I saw it. He's just . . . gone.” Raoul made a motion with his fingers, implying an explosion. “Him and Sam . . . gone.” He nodded at the body on the table. “They left Ewok in a field. Two men were with 'em at the house. Humans. One of 'em took her away on a bike. He did that.” He nodded to the still form of the demon on the table.

 

M'noche didn't move, the irritation on his face remained unchanged. It was as though those narrowed eyes were piercing right into Raoul's brain, and he suddenly realized that he was having a hard time breathing under the scrutiny. Several very tense moments passed before the elder finally spoke.

 

“My son is dead?” the words were low, disbelieving. A contradiction to the heat behind the eyes, the angry clench of jaw. M'noche frowned. Raoul stood his ground and waited for the fatal blow, wondering if that pink light had hurt Diego as much as his uncle's claws were about to hurt him.

 

The raised arm caused him to flinch as M'noche grabbed him behind the neck, and pulled his head down to a broad shoulder. He was clan, so of course death would come with a kiss. He stiffened against the hold, knowing better than to even try to pull away.

 

“Tio . . .” Raoul groaned.

 

“You will tell me everything you know . . .” came the low growl, a whisper into his ear. “Every little, tiny detail you remember. I hope you are ready to take Diego's place. We will make that bitch pay.” The hand lowered and it became an embrace. No kiss. No claws.

 

Raoul's eyes widened as he realized that his life was being spared.

 

“Where is that flunky, Ginta?? The bastard is always underfoot until I need him,” M'noche shouted to his ranks. “Raoul is now Beta!!” This announcement was greeted with a combination of murmurs and cheers. “We have a score to settle with the Ookami!! All allegiance to Kouga and his ken is VOID!! No more fucking games!” Then his voice lowered below the excited cheering at the proclamation, Raoul cradled against his shoulder. “No more . . .”

 

 

 

8^8^8^8^8^8^8

 

 

 

She had told him she was okay.

 

She was far from 'okay'.

 

Staring blankly at the obscenely plush bath towel that she had been handed, Kagome choked back the raging torrent that welled inside her. It was supposed to be safe here. To say she felt intimidated would have been a gross understatement.

 

At the flash of the Demon's eyes, Kagome had been certain she was done for. Even with the space of several yards between them, she could feel his barely restrained wrath. It had been more frightening to her than when that deformed creature dropped through the ceiling of Selene's living room. It was apparent that this was no average youkai. He was the most powerful she had encountered to date. And he had been no less than furious. And that fury had been directed right at her. She was certain of it.

 

The moment that she realized the knife she had been clutching for miles could be perceived as a threat, she tossed it as far from herself as she could, and lowered her eyes in what she hoped would be understood as an act of deference - contrition -- she was sorry . . . so damn sorry. She could only hope that he would understand.

 

The woman, Kagura, had been so gentle with her. Very kind, almost doting in her hovering concern for the welfare of a woman who had not even said a word, yet had still managed to incur the wrath of her husband. A towel and a change of clothes had materialized, and she had been shown to a luxurious bathroom, where she was expected to change. She tried to avoid the daggers of accusation shooting from the reflection in the mirror. Her own reflection. Accusation and judgment that were well earned.

 

She had taken a life.

 

She still had a hard time believing that the attack had even occurred, let alone that she had willingly and vengefully released enough energy to purify the cocky young demon. She had been spurred by his words, implying she was some kind of object, a stolen possession that needed to be returned. She belonged to no one. She was not some kind of trophy. She certainly wasn't pretty enough to be a trophy. Running her fingers through her tangled hair, and carefully avoiding her eyes in the mirror, she affirmed that she was no prize. But the implication was that she was some kind of mindless bauble that needed to be returned to its proper owner. While her anger might have been justified, her actions could not be.

 

InuYasha had said that it was either him or them, that she had done the right thing. Yet she couldn't help but think of Kouga and how Miranda had looked at him. She adored him. Even if he was jerk, she certainly didn't see him that way. That young demon, Diego . . . had been someone's son. He'd even made reference to his father. Granted it was about how he would kill InuYasha quickly and mercifully. Ok, so not all 'papas' are nice people. But someone had cared about him, would miss him. Even if he was a calloused bastard and ran over his buddy during the chase. At what point does a person's wickedness cross the line so far as to warrant death?

 

Kagome shuddered for perhaps the hundredth time that day.

 

 

 

 

Kagura quietly stood at a wheeled cart and poured tea into two fine china tea cups, complete with saucers. Kagome tugged the afghan her hostess had given her around herself and imagined that the scene would fit quite nicely in a Victorian era movie. An old 'black and white', of the sort that play only on specialty channels. She had never seen such an ornate pattern of roses and leaves on china before, it looked as though it should be gracing a museum case . She'd never seen a such an extensive library in a private home before, either. Almost Sherlock Holmesian. Definitely an old black and white 'who done it'.

 

She wrapped herself a little tighter in the crocheted throw, casting a wary glance at her hostess. After she had dried off and changed, she had been led to this amazing room, complete with fireplace and large comfortable chairs where Kagura was now conducting a very civilized European tea service at four in the morning, instead of four in the afternoon. Kagome pondered that perhaps she was becoming hysterical with these rampant thoughts running through her head. Should she begin looking for the white rabbit? Toto wasn't here to make that infamous comment to, the one about it not being Kansas anymore.

 

Glancing around on that thought, she noted that the only things out of place in her movie-like comparison, was the pile of apparently unopened mail that covered the desk on the far end of the room, and a stack of boxes by the fireplace. One of those boxes appeared to be a case of specialty dog food. Surely dog demons . . . don't eat . . . Her mind raced. The memory of InuYasha and his coveted bag of treats at the mall flashed through her mind and had her questioning the idea. Another little tremor ran through her. Definitely hysteria. Now where was that rabbit with the kid gloves . . . Here, Toto!

 

“I'm sure you probably have a lot of questions,” Kagura interrupted her thoughts by handing her one of the cups of tea, then elegantly folded herself into the closest wingback chair. Casually bringing her feet up under herself, the woman smiled and took a sip of her tea. Kagome nodded her thanks, still not having found her voice, and took a sip of the tea. It was wonderful. A blend of chamomile and mint, but different, richer than any store brand she had ever tasted. So, here they were. Murder at three. Tea at four. She considered changing her comparisons from the 'who-done-it' genre, to ridiculously bad spy movies. At least those were in color.

 

“Are you inu-youkai too?” Kagome whispered cautiously, trying very hard to not glance toward the boxes by the fireplace. The gentle laughter that erupted from the demoness took her by surprise.

 

“No . . .” Kagura chortled, then sipped at her own tea. “I'm elemental. Wind, to be precise.”

 

“Oh, sorry . . . I hope I didn't offend,” Kagome focused on the cup in her hands. She found the deep red of the woman's eyes unsettling, and had trouble meeting them. She knew they were on her, however. She'd seen the expression of speculative concern, a hint of curiosity, and something else. Something she hadn't been able to decipher.

 

“None taken,” the demoness assured quietly.

 

Venturing another sip of the calming tea, the only sound in the room was the soft ticking of a grandfather clock, and the pelting of the rain outside. “This is very good,” she ventured to stretch beyond the whisper, finding her voice a bit raspy. “I really . . . appreciate your hospitality. It seems I'm . . . I'm having a problem staying out of trouble.”

 

Kagura waved off the gratitude. “You are right where you belong, dear.” Kagome opened her mouth to object, the vision of the infuriated Demon splashing through her mind, but the demoness interrupted, reiterating her statement. “Right where you belong, I mean that. In fact. . .” she raised her cup, commenting with a mischievous grin over the lip as she took a sip, “I understand a member of your family arrived a little ahead of time.”

 

“My family?” The reference confused Kagome, a fine line forming between her brows. Her only real family was her mother, and of course the extended family, most of which was in Japan.

 

“Oh, damn. I probably shouldn't have said anything,” she muttered, lowering her feet and leaning over to set the cup and saucer on the table. “I'm sure that they will join us shortly . . .” Kagura stretched over to pat her arm, and she nervously flinched from the unexpected contact. “Do you want to talk about it? Any of it?”

 

Kagome met the concerned expression, the line between her brows deepening. Talk about it? First I have to believe it . . . right?

 

“I wouldn't know where to begin, its all been so overwhelming . . .” Kagome frowned, and took another sip of the delicious tea. She had to admit it was calming her frayed nerves, and she was finally feeling warm, though her muscles ached from the workout of holding onto InuYasha for dear life. It would have been different if he could have used his sword. But that was her fault. All of it was her fault. She couldn't help the pleading look that accompanied her confession, “I did it . . . I'm responsible for what happened .” Her eyes began to water. “I didn't mean to, it just . . . happened. Mr. Inudono is right to be angry with me.”

 

“Sesshoumaru isn't angry with you, dear. He simply wasn't prepared. InuYasha gave him no warning. I think his ire is directed more toward his brother right now. There are dynamics at work in that relationship that you could not possibly begin to understand.”

 

“I know a little bit about family dynamics,” Kagome sniffed. “But, their situation is far from any norms I ever studied.”

 

“Exactly. They are both extraordinary men, with vastly different backgrounds. Sesshoumaru has spent many years searching for his brother. More than you can imagine. The healing has only barely begun between them. This nonsense with Kouga has actually been good, because they have a common bond in thwarting him.” Kagura rose and busied herself preparing another cup of tea, handing Kagome a dainty napkin when she sniffed again.

 

“So, you know Kouga . . . you don't like him either, I take it.” Kagome observed trying to keep her tone as neutral as possible. She set her nearly empty cup down on the low table, then snuggled back into the plush chair, and dabbed at her nose.

 

“I have history with the wolf. Ancient history, quite literally,” Kagura waved a hand dismissively, with a sardonic grin. “I doubt he even knows that I am around.” She straightened, her eyes sharpening, “which is probably for the best, all things considered.”

 

“So . . . does that mean. . . that you knew my aunt, too?” Kagome's eyes narrowed on the demoness. Other than the fact that she was a demon, no bells or whistles went off in Kagome's mind about her. She didn't 'remember' her.

 

“I did, actually,” Kagura's eyes softened as she took a sip of her tea, curling up into the chair again, she continued in a casual, conversational tone. “We weren't close, by any means. But she helped me. . . helped me to believe that my life could be better,” at this she paused. “An inspiration, you might say.”

 

“So, it looks like your life is going good, now,” Kagome's eye traveled the room again, and she suppressed the urge to add 'ridiculously good'. “It wasn't so great before?”

 

“Ah . . . well . . . I had a very . . . abusive . . . 'guardian' I guess one might call him.” Kagome heard a hint of old bitterness, pain that was quickly covered with an obviously well practiced, offhanded tone. “A rather twisted soul . . . He tended to try to manipulate everyone around him. Kagome and InuYasha, among others were victims of his schemes.” At this she paused, and Kagome could see the memories were not pleasant for her. “They and their friends . . . finally brought him to justice.” Kagura's eyes unfocused for a few seconds before she turned and caught Kagome's eyes. A fleeting look of desperation morphed to inspiration on the demoness' features, before she spoke again in a whisper of near reverence, “I was never able to tell them . . . how sorry . . . or even . . . to say . . . thank you . . .”

 

Kagome pressed herself back into the chair, furrowing her brow at the vague account, and how the disjointed apology and thanks were being offered to her. As if she had been directly involved in this 'justice' that had been meted out centuries ago. Her eyes slowly widened with amazement that Kagura, a complete stranger to her, was acknowledging her as the current incarnation of the miko in that legendary group. The need in her eyes yanked at Kagome's heart. Such a deep need for acceptance of her apology, her thanks. Uncertain about being the recipient of something so important, she drew her response directly from deep within her heart, using caution to not take credit for something that she, in all honesty, knew nothing about.

 

“I am sure that . . .” Kagome began hesitantly, slowly, “. . . that your living well now . . . is all the thanks that would be necessary.” Through her confusion, she sensed that something very profound was happening. She was scared out of her wits, and now this red-eyed woman was looking at her like she was some kind of living saint. Hysteria again? She nervously glanced around for the rabbit, thinking perhaps the Mad Hatter would be a better suspect, what with the tea and all.

 

Suddenly, unexpectedly, the Shikon made its presence known with a lingering pulse. Reaching up to grasp it through the borrowed blouse, she glanced again at Kagura, who had an expression of wonder on her face. Now the Jewel was calling to her? The expression of gratitude, and her acceptance, however remote it may have been, had triggered something. Now she was being led by the Jewel again. Had been all day, though for what purpose she had no idea. It certainly wasn't any more surreal than the last 48 plus hours had been, and she decided that to focus on the relic might alleviate some of the terror and remorse she had been saddled with from the night's events.

 

Usually, when she felt the Jewel's compulsion it had to do with healing someone nearby. The other times, she had been able to 'see' what the problem was, but a quick hooded examination of Kagura revealed nothing. Kagome could only assume that it was because the woman wasn't exactly human. Perhaps her miko 'sight' was limited to only those of her own kind.

 

“Are you feeling alright?” she asked hesitantly, grasping for any kind of lead as to what the Jewel wanted of her.

 

“I'm just peachy . . .” Kagura shook herself abruptly, responded just a little too lightly, before narrowing concerned eyes on the miko. “But I'm worried about you. You've been through a lot tonight, or so it seems . . . too much that you aren't talking about. It's important to not pack everything away inside, that's not healthy.”

 

“I'm okay . . .” she suppressed a wince at the lie. Taking a deep breath she made a not-quite-successful effort to appear relaxed, calm. “Much better now that I'm dry,” she motioned to the borrowed attire, and offered her hostess a wan smile. “It's been a strange few days, and I just need time to think before I try to talk about it . . .” She felt the sensation of the the Shikon pulsing again, and she raised her brows. The pulsing was not a result of her hysteria. Something was definitely going on.

 

“What is it?” Kagura asked, eyes searching for a cause for the change in her expression.

 

“This has been happening a lot lately. It talks to me . . . kind of,” Kagome pulled the Shikon out, and watched it brighten as she sensed it pulse again. Kagura's eyes nearly bulged and she pulled away. Kagome quickly dropped the orb back into the blouse, “I'm sorry . . . here . . . I'll put it back,” she stammered, blushing with the embarrassment of having caused her hostess discomfort. It seemed to frighten the demoness, and Kagome was still sound enough of mind to not be rude. She resisted the urge to say, 'See? All gone!' Like one would say to a two year old. Instead she just waved her hand dismissing it.

 

“He lied,” Kagura whispered, before taking a breath.

 

“Huh? Who lied?” Kagome watched as the demoness worked to pull herself back together. The fear in the woman's eyes at the unveiling of the Jewel had the young woman's curiosity piqued, but she was hesitant to press. She was youkai, perhaps it was simply the purifying power that she feared. But Shippou had said the Shikon could be used by anyone. So why did it frighten her?

 

“Someone once told me the Jewel was most beautiful when it was tainted . . .” She could see the horror written behind the woman's unfocused eyes, terrible memories of some distant past. “Kagome, that's the first time I've ever seen more than a few loose shards, and pure to boot . . . and the son-of-a-bitch lied.”

 

So that was it. Kagura had seen Shikon no kakera used for malevolent purposes. 'A few loose shards'. It was akin to an epiphany, as she examined the expression on Kagura's face. She had been there, she had lived it, been a part of it. So had InuYasha. As had Shippou, and even Kouga. What had always been to Kagome simply a fable, was their history, and it obviously wasn't a pleasant one. There hadn't really been a happy ending. Not for them. No, for them . . . it still wasn't over.

 

Perhaps it was the exhaustion that had set in, and a second wind pulling at her confused mind, but suddenly Kagome's awareness sharpened. It hit her like a bright flash of light that pooled to illuminate the dark, confused corners of her memory, the events surrounding the 'appearance' of the Shikon no Tama. Shippou's insistence that she wear it, Taki's ruined knee, Kouga's demanding intensity, the awe on the reporter's face. InuYasha's need for Mikey, for all of them to accept him.

 

She was responsible. She was the caretaker. She was the chosen 'Miko'.

 

“Don't worry . . . its my job to keep it pure . . .” Feeling a renewal of confidence, she reached over to pat Kagura's arm reassuringly. Kagome felt a surge of power pass through her hand at the moment of contact and the Jewel pulsed once more. There was no outwardly visible sign of the phenomenon, like she had become accustomed to experiencing. Her hands didn't glow, there was no subsonic reverberation, no flash of light. She hadn't had any intention beyond simple reassurance, but she knew that something significant had just occurred.

 

And apparently so did Kagura. Crimson eyes widened, she sat back in her chair taking quick panting breaths. Examining the woman's arm briefly for any sign of damage, Kagome concluded that the Kami of the Shikon had to have their own agenda. Whatever had happened, she had been nothing more than a conduit for their power. Like that chain had been for her power. She closed her eyes briefly and silently thanked them for not purifying her hostess.

 

For a moment, she could have sworn she heard a response of echoed laughter off in the distance.

 

 

 

 

~o0o~

 

 

“Where the Hell was Tetsusaiga?” demanded the Demon, his blazing eyes the only indication that he was displeased.

 

InuYasha stood firmly, scowling with his arms folded. He didn't appreciate being grilled like a pup with no sense. Reaching to pull the sword from the back of his jacket, the feel of it in his hand brought reassurance. He knew fully well he had screwed up, he didn't have to be told. He was the one that was dealing with the consequences of that royal screw up. The asshole didn't have to rub his nose in it. The thing that bothered him the most, was that he felt so very guilty and now cornered, with the jackass's interrogation.

 

“Kagome was holding it,” InuYasha swallowed perceptibly, “She didn't know, and I didn't. . .

I didn't expect it would get so out of hand. I should'a asked for it, but I was too pissed off to even think about it.” He paused a moment, a new perspective tickling at his mind.

 

Sesshoumaru wasn't really angry. Not the deadly anger that he had grown to know. The reality of it was that his brother was frustrated. He had been worried about him. He could see it now, and his stupid pride had kept him from warning him ahead of time. He had hoped it would pass before he saw him again. He briefly flashed to the memory of when he finally awoke after being so sick. Near death, they had told him. The rare display of emotion by the Demon had been disturbing. Now this display of anger was . . . not so much at him, as it was for him. Sesshoumaru really did care. InuYasha was beginning to realize just how much. “But, she stopped me, Aniki . . . no one died. That's all that matters,” he added softly, a look of wonder in his eyes.

 

Sesshoumaru stood stock still, his eyes never leaving InuYasha. That was an honorific that had never once been used in addressing him. By anyone. InuYasha's choice to use it now, to actually call him 'big brother' had brought the Demon to pause. The harshness of his glare softened as he digested the gravity of the situation that the miko had faced. No harm had been intended. Prevention of a murderous disaster had been her goal. And her behavior upon their arrival made it clear that she understood what she had done, and took no pride in it. This would not have happened had they been mated, of that he was certain. That was a situation that should be rectified as soon as possible, provided InuYasha had not been permanently purified. That would present an entirely new set of problems should it prove to be the case.

 

“You will see the house physician first thing in the morning. I want to know if this is permanent,” Sesshoumaru pressed on without hesitation. “The condition of the Ducati suggests you met with interference while coming home . . .”

 

“You could say that,” InuYasha relaxed his stance. The atmosphere of the study had changed dramatically. “One of Kouga's cronies called, said someone was coming. They got there just before we left. Really fucked up Sally's house. Miroku got one inside the house. Exorcised him, just like he used to. We lost one during the chase and I took one down with the bike. Kagome purified the last one . . .”

 

“Indeed . . .” Sesshoumaru looked away briefly, considering his brother's last statement. “So, the miko is not completely helpless.” Sesshoumaru held out his hand, motioning toward his brother. “Hopefully this kind of . . . accident . . . can be avoided in the future. And you say that 'Miroku' exorcised one. So Mr. Andrews has retained the Houshi's skills?”

 

“Yeah, you could say that . . .” InuYasha scowled at the floor, remembering the warded exits and the subjugation Ofuda that had spawned his need to fight the man in the first place.

 

“Let me see your phone . . .” Sesshoumaru motioned with his hand. At InuYasha's questioning look he explained, “The caller I.D. will tell us where the informant called from.”

 

InuYasha dug the phone out of his pocket, then found the ear piece and examined it as he handed the phone to his brother. “This damn thing is useless to me now,” he muttered.

 

The Demon's eyes flicked from the phone that he had raised to eye level, to see his brother's frustrated examination of the secondary piece of equipment. “Hopefully, not for long, little brother. Let us see what the physician says before we make any assumptions.”

 

Dropping the ear piece into his jacket pocket, InuYasha lowered into a chair and leaned elbows to knees, examining his hands with a scowl. That lousy phone had more features on it than he thought he would ever possibly remember. It was a wonder he could remember how to make a simple call. It would probably be useful to know where Ginta had called from. Maybe that would be the lead they needed to uncover where Kouga was hiding out.

 

“Does the name Akitoki Hojo mean anything to you?”

 

“Hojo??” InuYasha's eyes shot up, that was the last name he expected to hear. “What does that useless bastard have to do with anything??”

 

“It was from his phone that your warning call came,” Sesshoumaru handed back the unit. “Perhaps not as 'useless' as you have deemed . . . am I to assume he is one of Kouga's . . . 'cronies', I believe was the term you used?”

 

“Kuso . . .” under his breath the word was no more than harsh consonants. “Miroku said that Kouga was talking to him, but it was Ginta that called me. Ginta's been with Kouga as long as I've known the Ookami. That means that Hojo's in a lot deeper than I thought . . .” he locked his eyes on his brother. “Hojo is ningen . . . what does it mean??”

 

“Another ill fitting piece to the puzzle . . .” Sesshoumaru lit contemplatively on the edge of his desk. It was well known the wolf imagined himself to be clever. Perhaps the added human elements in his plan were simply devices to draw them off the scent. Then again, it was unfathomable that the fool would involve himself so intimately as to mate with one for that purpose alone. Or had he, in actuality done this thing? Their sources of information on this were, after all, human. Humans with no true knowledge of youkai culture or tradition. Easily fooled. Equally easily coerced. The most dangerous thing they could do would be to assume anything at this juncture. More information was needed.

 

InuYasha glanced at the door anxiously, impatient with the silence. “So . . . are you going to tell me what in the Seven Hells Kagura is doing here . . . at this hour?”

 

“It is only logical that my mate is here with me,” Sesshoumaru's expression was impassive, distracted with his thoughts.

 

“Mate??” More an explosion than a confirmation, disbelief and disapproval contorted InuYasha's features. “Fuck, I knew you guys were close . . . but not THAT close!” He abruptly rose and paced over to a window, then back in frustration. He knew that things changed with the passing of time, but he had a very difficult time accepting that the wind sorceress was no longer one of his enemies, let alone a member of his family now. He'd thought she was dead, even heard rumors of it before they finally finished off Naraku. Discovering her here, in this time, and in this place, had been enough of a shock. And now he was to accept that she was mated to his brother? “When the hell did this happen? Obviously not before that damn opera, or I would have known . . . fuck I thought she was long dead, before I saw her that night.”

 

“That was the idea . . .” The Demon's eyes narrowed on his sibling. This was phase two. It was apparent that both of them had withheld important information this evening. He proceeded with the utmost caution, knowing fully well how volatile his brother could be. It simply would not do, to have him 'grab the miko and run'.

 

“Naraku tried to poison her. The keyword is 'tried'. Very nearly succeeded. This Sesshoumaru was instrumental in her recovery from that attack, and word was spread that she had indeed succumbed in order to prevent the abomination from coming after her.” Allowing a moment for this to digest in his brother's mind, he rose to his full height, prepared for the assault he knew was to come.

 

“You lied . . .” InuYasha muttered. The anger the Demon had expected in response was nothing compared to the momentary flash of hurt disappointment that crossed his brother's human features, to be followed by a grim snarl. “You said she was gone . . . that she had smiled . . .”

 

“It was no lie, she was indeed 'gone'. Transported by Ah-un to the castle. This Sesshoumaru simply did not elaborate as to . . . where she had gone. And she did, indeed, smile.”

 

“Gah!!” An exasperated cough broke the tense silence. “You've got a warped definition of honesty, asshole.”

 

“The point is, she may have been of Naraku, InuYasha, but she was never for Naraku.” Sesshoumaru paused again to let this sink into his brother's thick skull.

 

“Could have fuckin' fooled me!” Here was the anger, solid and true. “I can't count how many times that bitch tried to kill us! Not to mention the torture she and Hakudoushi put Sango through, dragging Kohaku around. Like they were wavin' him in her face, just to yank him away again . . .”

 

“More than once she approached this Sesshoumaru, begging that I eliminate the vile beast.” He stopped and met his brother's dark, rather astonished glower, lowering his voice. “It took a while before I realized just how worthy that request was. She has been under my protection for a very long time. You would, perhaps . . . be surprised at how long . . .”

 

“And you're sure she won't try anything?” InuYasha motioned generally toward the door, then grasped the hilt of his sword. “I'll make sure she never does again if she even thinks about it!” His scowl only increased when he remembered that he couldn't do much in his current state.

 

“She wants no more to do with the accursed thing than I,” The Demon's voice remained level, though his eyes flashed as he pointed to his brother's weapon. “I would think that our truce would be inclusive of our respective females, halfbreed,” he raised an expectant brow and watched InuYasha lower the sheathed weapon in consideration. “We must first neutralize Kouga and his minion, then we will work on how to neutralize the Tama. As, most assuredly, there must be a way to do so. . .” His eyes narrowed on the man before him.

 

“Oh no you don't . . .” InuYasha shook his head and waved his arms in response to the Demon's examination. “I ain't makin' no fuckin' wish, if that's what your thinkin'! And you know why, too . . .” He paused, then muttered, “That fucking thing twists everything around, no good could come from it. I just want a normal life with Kagome.” His expression morphed to worry and he again glanced toward the door.

 

“It is not my intention to force you to do such a thing, InuYasha” his words gentle, Sesshoumaru moved toward the door. “Perhaps the Tama itself will provide the answers, once we learn the proper questions to ask. Until then, our mission is to protect the miko.”

 

The Demon opened the door and with a sideways glance at his brother, barked into the hallway. InuYasha tilted his head, an expression of amused disbelief that his brother, the stoic Lord would do such a thing. Then he saw why.

 

“Junior!!” He greeted the Samoyed puppy, who responded immediately with yips and wildly wagging tail. “How ya doin'??” In his arms the pup was all tail and tongue.

 

“Junior?” Sesshoumaru inquired with a raised brow, then shook his head halting InuYasha's reply with his raised hand. “I do not want to know.”

 

“Keh!” InuYasha snorted as he followed his brother out the door, “I wasn't gonna tell ya, anyway.”

 

 

 

 

~oo00O00oo~

 

To Be Continued . . .

 

 

 

 

A/N:: I know I took some liberties this chapter, off the canon track, but I couldn't resist. I'm a believer that people can change, and overcome, and endure. As for Hobo's name, going with the 'long-accepted family name' since no one seems to know what his first name is... ^_^ please feel free to correct me.

 

I am in need of correction...

 

or a good spanking...

 

one of the two.

 

“Mooman_fl: or both”

 

MKT